Like so many institutions of "higher learning," Grinnell College has taken the sexualization craze and "gender neutral" to the next extreme by encouraging boys and girls to shower together.
For background and lists of such colleges, read Rutgers Co-ed Dorms & Showers: Gay Agenda and also read Sexually Confused Legislation Killed in Maryland
-- From "College adds locker rooms to gender-neutral policy" by Mike Kilen and Adam Belz, USA TODAY 11/10/11
In what the National Student Genderblind Campaign calls a "rapidly growing collegiate movement," at least 54 colleges and universities across the country, many of them private, provide gender-neutral housing options this year.
[James Baumann, spokesman for the Association of College and University Housing Officers — International said] "It's usually a campus responding to a need. If the student body either overtly expresses a desire for this, or if the housing staff perceives a need for it, that's when they pursue this as an option."
At Grinnell, the gender-neutral idea was driven by transgender students, those who don't identify themselves as either male or female, and students transitioning from one gender to the other, students and school officials said.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Iowa College Allows Students to Share 'Gender-Neutral' Locker Rooms" by Ray Downs, Christian Post Reporter 11/9/11
"This is a comfortable option for those that have trouble deciding whether to go to the bathroom - with the skirt or the pants on the sign," said Andrea Conner, director of residence life and orientation.
In the residence halls, students vote on whether or not the bathrooms are gender neutral.
With the changes at Grinnell College, at least one transgender student has said the attitude towards gender has made life easier.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Texas ACLU Defends Christians' Rights in School
The American Civil Liberties Union of Texas is questioning the Brownsville Independent School District for requiring students to hide any religious symbols such as Christian crosses or rosaries.
For background, read Illinois School Suspends Christian for Rosary Beads and also read School Bans Ten Commandments, ACLU Defends Christians
UPDATE 9/14/12: Thompson Valley High School in Loveland, CO bars rosary beads -- calls them gang symbols
-- From "School Scrutinized on Rosary Restrictions" by The Associated Press 11/21/11
Lisa Graybill, legal director for the ACLU of Texas, says she has filed open records requests to examine the district policy.
She says students' right to wear articles of faith in school is "indisputably protected" by the U.S. Constitution and Texas law.
School officials in Brownsville tell the San Antonio Express-News there is no written policy, but they've asked students to tuck the items under their clothes after receiving a warning from school police.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Rosary rules draw ACLU scrutiny" by Lynn Brezosky, San Antonio Express-News 11/19/11
District Police Chief Oscar Garcia said a handful of students at Simon Rivera High School had been wearing handmade “rosaries” around their heads and waists, which was an indication of affiliation with prison gangs.
“I want to be really, really clear that we totally understand and respect the imperative that school administrators and district personnel have to keep schools safe,” [Graybill] said. “Schools cannot substantially burden a student's free exercise of religion, which includes wearing an article of faith, like a rosary or a cross or a yarmulke, or long hair for an American Indian student, without a compelling reason.”
She said a district-wide policy based on an unsubstantiated gang threat, or even an existing policy that is vague, might be crossing the line.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Texas School to Students: Cover Crosses, Other Religious Symbols" by Simon Brown, Opposing Views 11/28/11
Jeff Mateer of the Liberty Institute, a Texas-based organization that is guided by principles of limited government and Judeo-Christian values, said the ACLU defense of these students is not standard procedure, according to the American Family News Network.
Mateer added, though, that it’s not unheard of.
“I would note that this is the Texas ACLU, versus the national ACLU,” he said. “The Texas ACLU has joined with us here in Texas on a few cases, so they seem to be a little more intellectually honest.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
For background, read Illinois School Suspends Christian for Rosary Beads and also read School Bans Ten Commandments, ACLU Defends Christians
UPDATE 9/14/12: Thompson Valley High School in Loveland, CO bars rosary beads -- calls them gang symbols
-- From "School Scrutinized on Rosary Restrictions" by The Associated Press 11/21/11
Lisa Graybill, legal director for the ACLU of Texas, says she has filed open records requests to examine the district policy.
She says students' right to wear articles of faith in school is "indisputably protected" by the U.S. Constitution and Texas law.
School officials in Brownsville tell the San Antonio Express-News there is no written policy, but they've asked students to tuck the items under their clothes after receiving a warning from school police.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Rosary rules draw ACLU scrutiny" by Lynn Brezosky, San Antonio Express-News 11/19/11
District Police Chief Oscar Garcia said a handful of students at Simon Rivera High School had been wearing handmade “rosaries” around their heads and waists, which was an indication of affiliation with prison gangs.
“I want to be really, really clear that we totally understand and respect the imperative that school administrators and district personnel have to keep schools safe,” [Graybill] said. “Schools cannot substantially burden a student's free exercise of religion, which includes wearing an article of faith, like a rosary or a cross or a yarmulke, or long hair for an American Indian student, without a compelling reason.”
She said a district-wide policy based on an unsubstantiated gang threat, or even an existing policy that is vague, might be crossing the line.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Texas School to Students: Cover Crosses, Other Religious Symbols" by Simon Brown, Opposing Views 11/28/11
Jeff Mateer of the Liberty Institute, a Texas-based organization that is guided by principles of limited government and Judeo-Christian values, said the ACLU defense of these students is not standard procedure, according to the American Family News Network.
Mateer added, though, that it’s not unheard of.
“I would note that this is the Texas ACLU, versus the national ACLU,” he said. “The Texas ACLU has joined with us here in Texas on a few cases, so they seem to be a little more intellectually honest.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Atheism, Paganism Latest Liberal Media Darling
Whereas the latter decades of the 20th century saw favorable promotion of liberal "christianity" in a purposeful drift away from Truth, in the 21st century the media now promotes outright hatred of God -- even promoting overt Evil.
For background, read "You Don't Need God," Indiana Told and also read Paganism Acceptance Growing in America along with Pagan Worship Center Added to Air Force Academy as well as Pagans, Liberal 'christians' Celebrate Earth on Good Friday
-- From "Atheists launch campaign to get unbelievers to ‘come out’" by Kimberly Winston, Religion News Service, posted by Washington Post 11/21/11
[Alex] Fiorentini, a student at the University of Illinois . . .and scores of other atheists, young and old, have made [atheist confessional] videos for a new campaign designed to build community and support among nontheists around the world.
Dubbed “We Are Atheism,” the campaign was launched this fall by three students at the University of Kansas.
[25-year-old Amanda] Brown was inspired to start the campaign with her husband and a friend when she attended a talk by Jessica Ahlquist, a teenage atheist who was taunted and bullied after she objected to a “school prayer” banner hung in her Rhode Island high school.
Brown, who had founded a gay-straight club in her high school, patterned We Are Atheism on the gay community’s “It Gets Better” video project, launched in 2010 after a string of suicides by bullied gay teens. It Gets Better features self-made videos by gay, lesbian, transgendered and bisexual people who share their coming-out experiences and offer encouragement to those who remain closeted.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "The Unbelievers" by Emily Brennan, New York Time 11/25/11
Ronnelle Adams [age 30] came out to his mother twice, first about his homosexuality, then about his atheism.
This was in 2000, and Mr. Adams did not meet another black atheist in Washington until 2009, when he found the Facebook group called Black Atheists, which immediately struck a chord. “I felt like, ‘100 black atheists? Wow!’ ” he said.
In the two years since, Black Atheists has grown to 879 members from that initial 100, YouTube confessionals have attracted thousands, blogs like “Godless and Black” have gained followings, and hundreds more have joined Facebook groups like Black Atheist Alliance (524 members) to share their struggles with “coming out” about their atheism.
Given the cultural pull toward religion, less than one-half of a percent of African-Americans identify themselves as atheists, compared with 1.6 percent of the total population, according to Pew. Black atheists, then, find they are a minority within a minority.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Students protest lack of atheist group at Duquesne" by Ann Rodgers, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Kaitlynn Riely, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette 11/18/11
Carnegie Mellon University and University of Pittsburgh have secular, or atheist, student organizations. Last month, Duquesne senior Nick Shadowen petitioned his student government to create a similar society.
Duquesne, a Catholic school, already has Jewish and Muslim student groups . . .
An oversight committee reviewed Shadowen's application, looked into the work of similar groups on other campuses and voted unanimously not to approve it, said Zachary Ziegler, president of Duquesne's Student Government Association, which is in charge of recognition for student groups.
"The main difference with the Jewish and Muslim organizations is that those groups don't contradict the mission statement, which says that Duquesne serves God by serving students," Ziegler said. "Both of those student organizations recognize that there is a God. Our committee discussed the fact that this organization does not believe in God, and its positions are against the belief in God."
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Atheists Crave Church Fellowship, but Absent God
For background, read "You Don't Need God," Indiana Told and also read Paganism Acceptance Growing in America along with Pagan Worship Center Added to Air Force Academy as well as Pagans, Liberal 'christians' Celebrate Earth on Good Friday
-- From "Atheists launch campaign to get unbelievers to ‘come out’" by Kimberly Winston, Religion News Service, posted by Washington Post 11/21/11
[Alex] Fiorentini, a student at the University of Illinois . . .and scores of other atheists, young and old, have made [atheist confessional] videos for a new campaign designed to build community and support among nontheists around the world.
Dubbed “We Are Atheism,” the campaign was launched this fall by three students at the University of Kansas.
[25-year-old Amanda] Brown was inspired to start the campaign with her husband and a friend when she attended a talk by Jessica Ahlquist, a teenage atheist who was taunted and bullied after she objected to a “school prayer” banner hung in her Rhode Island high school.
Brown, who had founded a gay-straight club in her high school, patterned We Are Atheism on the gay community’s “It Gets Better” video project, launched in 2010 after a string of suicides by bullied gay teens. It Gets Better features self-made videos by gay, lesbian, transgendered and bisexual people who share their coming-out experiences and offer encouragement to those who remain closeted.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "The Unbelievers" by Emily Brennan, New York Time 11/25/11
Ronnelle Adams [age 30] came out to his mother twice, first about his homosexuality, then about his atheism.
This was in 2000, and Mr. Adams did not meet another black atheist in Washington until 2009, when he found the Facebook group called Black Atheists, which immediately struck a chord. “I felt like, ‘100 black atheists? Wow!’ ” he said.
In the two years since, Black Atheists has grown to 879 members from that initial 100, YouTube confessionals have attracted thousands, blogs like “Godless and Black” have gained followings, and hundreds more have joined Facebook groups like Black Atheist Alliance (524 members) to share their struggles with “coming out” about their atheism.
Given the cultural pull toward religion, less than one-half of a percent of African-Americans identify themselves as atheists, compared with 1.6 percent of the total population, according to Pew. Black atheists, then, find they are a minority within a minority.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Students protest lack of atheist group at Duquesne" by Ann Rodgers, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Kaitlynn Riely, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette 11/18/11
Carnegie Mellon University and University of Pittsburgh have secular, or atheist, student organizations. Last month, Duquesne senior Nick Shadowen petitioned his student government to create a similar society.
Duquesne, a Catholic school, already has Jewish and Muslim student groups . . .
An oversight committee reviewed Shadowen's application, looked into the work of similar groups on other campuses and voted unanimously not to approve it, said Zachary Ziegler, president of Duquesne's Student Government Association, which is in charge of recognition for student groups.
"The main difference with the Jewish and Muslim organizations is that those groups don't contradict the mission statement, which says that Duquesne serves God by serving students," Ziegler said. "Both of those student organizations recognize that there is a God. Our committee discussed the fact that this organization does not believe in God, and its positions are against the belief in God."
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Atheists Crave Church Fellowship, but Absent God
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Military Borrows $80,000 for Pagan Worship Center
In these days of deficit spending, when much of the money spent by the federal government is borrowed, the Air Force Academy completed a Stonehenge-like worship center for THREE cadets claiming to be pagan at a cost of $80,000.
-- From "Air Force Academy adapts to pagans, druids, witches and Wiccans" by Jenny Deam, Los Angeles Times 11/26/11
For the record, there are no witches among the cadets this year. But the two spiritual leaders for all Earth-based religions — one a civilian, one an Air Force reservist — are witches and regularly cast spells, which they say is not so different from offering prayer. There also are no druids this year. But there could be next year.
"We're here to accommodate all religions, period," [Chaplain Maj. Darren] Duncan says. The building of the Cadet Chapel Falcon Circle on the hilltop, he says, is no different from the past conversion of chapel rooms into worship spaces that serve this year's 11 Muslim, 16 Buddhist and 10 Hindu cadets. There are also 43 self-identified atheist cadets whose beliefs, or lack of them, Duncan says are also to be respected.
In addition to providing worship space, new policy dictates that all cadets take courses in understanding the religions of those who may someday fall under their command. Recently he's fielded calls from West Point and Annapolis about replicating the Air Force's efforts.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
"It is very nice to have our own space," says Cadet 1st Class Nicole Johnson, a 21-year-old senior from Florida who became a pagan after entering the academy.For background, read Pagan Worship Center Added to Air Force Academy
-- From "Air Force Academy adapts to pagans, druids, witches and Wiccans" by Jenny Deam, Los Angeles Times 11/26/11
For the record, there are no witches among the cadets this year. But the two spiritual leaders for all Earth-based religions — one a civilian, one an Air Force reservist — are witches and regularly cast spells, which they say is not so different from offering prayer. There also are no druids this year. But there could be next year.
"We're here to accommodate all religions, period," [Chaplain Maj. Darren] Duncan says. The building of the Cadet Chapel Falcon Circle on the hilltop, he says, is no different from the past conversion of chapel rooms into worship spaces that serve this year's 11 Muslim, 16 Buddhist and 10 Hindu cadets. There are also 43 self-identified atheist cadets whose beliefs, or lack of them, Duncan says are also to be respected.
In addition to providing worship space, new policy dictates that all cadets take courses in understanding the religions of those who may someday fall under their command. Recently he's fielded calls from West Point and Annapolis about replicating the Air Force's efforts.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Abortions Terminated at Minnesota Hospital
Regions Hospital in St. Paul announced the end of abortion services just as the new Planned Parenthood mega-abortuary is set to open nearby. Abortions performed in Minnesota continues a steep downward trend.
-- From "St. Paul's Regions Hospital to discontinue abortions" by The Associated Press 11/25/11
Chris Boese, vice president of patient care at Regions, says women in Minnesota can turn to community-based providers for abortion services in a professional medical setting.
Hospital officials say the closing is consistent with its planning approach, and that medical care that can be provided in a nonhospital setting reduces overall costs.
Regions is part of HealthPartners. Last year the clinic performed 545 abortions.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "St. Paul's Regions Hospital to halt abortion services" by Christopher Snowbeck, Pioneer Press 11/25/11
[Regions Hospital's] GYN Special Services Clinic has seen a decline in procedures; it provided 902 abortions in 2000. It was the sixth-largest of seven clinic providers of abortions in the state last year, according to Health Department figures.
The number of abortions performed across Minnesota fell again in 2010, dropping the state's procedure rate to what could be an all-time low. There were 11,505 abortions in the state last year. In 2000, the total was 14,450.
Hospital spokesman Jeff Shelman said he would not comment on whether the hospital bowed to pressure from anti-abortion groups that have protested the service at Regions over the years.
The number of abortion providers in the United States has been declining steadily, according to a March report from researchers at the New York-based Guttmacher Institute. It peaked in 1982 at 2,900 facilities, according to the report, and fell to 1,800 by 2005. But the facility tally in the U.S. held steady from 2005 to 2008, the report found.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Regions Hospital in St. Paul Minnesota Stops Doing Abortions" by Steven Ertelt, LifeNews.com 11/25/11
Scott Fischbach, the director of Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life, the statewide pro-life organization, told LifeNews the decision is wonderful, but said the good news is tempered by the fact that the Planned Parenthood abortion business is taking its place.
“Unfortunately, a new, larger Planned Parenthood abortion center is almost finished being built less than five miles from Regions,” he said. “Planned Parenthood also just expanded it’s abortion business by doing web-cam RU 486 abortions in Rochester, Minnesota.”
New statistics from the state health department in Minnesota show the number of abortions there have dropped once again to the lowest point since 1975, thanks in part to a program that provides help for pregnant women.
Abortion numbers fell for the fourth straight year in Minnesota, according to the latest report issued today from the Minnesota Department of Health. The decrease follows a trend of fewer abortions statewide since the Positive Alternatives program began in July 2006, funding efforts to help pregnant women in need.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
-- From "St. Paul's Regions Hospital to discontinue abortions" by The Associated Press 11/25/11
Chris Boese, vice president of patient care at Regions, says women in Minnesota can turn to community-based providers for abortion services in a professional medical setting.
Hospital officials say the closing is consistent with its planning approach, and that medical care that can be provided in a nonhospital setting reduces overall costs.
Regions is part of HealthPartners. Last year the clinic performed 545 abortions.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "St. Paul's Regions Hospital to halt abortion services" by Christopher Snowbeck, Pioneer Press 11/25/11
[Regions Hospital's] GYN Special Services Clinic has seen a decline in procedures; it provided 902 abortions in 2000. It was the sixth-largest of seven clinic providers of abortions in the state last year, according to Health Department figures.
The number of abortions performed across Minnesota fell again in 2010, dropping the state's procedure rate to what could be an all-time low. There were 11,505 abortions in the state last year. In 2000, the total was 14,450.
Hospital spokesman Jeff Shelman said he would not comment on whether the hospital bowed to pressure from anti-abortion groups that have protested the service at Regions over the years.
The number of abortion providers in the United States has been declining steadily, according to a March report from researchers at the New York-based Guttmacher Institute. It peaked in 1982 at 2,900 facilities, according to the report, and fell to 1,800 by 2005. But the facility tally in the U.S. held steady from 2005 to 2008, the report found.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Regions Hospital in St. Paul Minnesota Stops Doing Abortions" by Steven Ertelt, LifeNews.com 11/25/11
Scott Fischbach, the director of Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life, the statewide pro-life organization, told LifeNews the decision is wonderful, but said the good news is tempered by the fact that the Planned Parenthood abortion business is taking its place.
“Unfortunately, a new, larger Planned Parenthood abortion center is almost finished being built less than five miles from Regions,” he said. “Planned Parenthood also just expanded it’s abortion business by doing web-cam RU 486 abortions in Rochester, Minnesota.”
New statistics from the state health department in Minnesota show the number of abortions there have dropped once again to the lowest point since 1975, thanks in part to a program that provides help for pregnant women.
Abortion numbers fell for the fourth straight year in Minnesota, according to the latest report issued today from the Minnesota Department of Health. The decrease follows a trend of fewer abortions statewide since the Positive Alternatives program began in July 2006, funding efforts to help pregnant women in need.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Friday, November 25, 2011
Obama's Godless Thanksgiving Adventure (Address)
Just as last Thanksgiving, President Obama issued a holiday proclamation that predominantly thanked Native Americans for the birth of the nation, with just an honorable mention of God. This year, his weekend address dropped any reference to God entirely.
-- From "Obama criticized on Twitter for Thanksgiving remarks omitting God" by Amy Hubbard, Washington Post 11/24/11
President Obama devoted his weekly radio address to thanking U.S. service members and volunteers at shelters and soup kitchens. But it's whom he didn't thank that caused a stir on Twitter: God.
According to the White House, Obama personally called 10 service members in Iraq and Afghanistan on Thursday to say happy Thanksgiving. On Wednesday, the president, the first lady and their daughters, Malia and Sasha, did their bit of volunteering, stopping by Washington's Capital Area Foodbank to help fill care packages.
"To give thanks for luck is to deny God much less omit!" tweeted "PastorJeffBrown," whose Twitter account lists him as a rural Oklahoma husband, father and Baptist pastor.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Obama Leaves God out of Thanksgiving Speech, Riles Critics" by Joel Siegel, ABC News 11/25/11
"His remarks were void of any religious references, although Thanksgiving is a holiday traditionally steeped in giving thanks and praise to God," [Fox News' Todd] Starnes wrote.
"The president said his family was 'reflecting on how truly lucky we truly are,'" Starnes said. "For many Americans, though, Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on how blessed and thankful they are."
Obama mentioned God once in a closing "God bless you," to Americans watching the Internet address.
Three of the Republican presidential candidates – Mitt Romney, Newt Gingrich and Rick Santorum – issued Thanksgiving statements that omitted any references to God. Michele Bachmann, Herman Cain and Rick Perry mentioned God in their statements.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
President Abraham Lincoln's 1863 Thanksgiving Day proclamation:
Also read, Obama Declares He's Christian, Again
"Somebody ought to remind Obama (and his speechwriter) that when Americans sit down around a meal today and give thanks, they give thanks to God."For background, read Creator Systematically Deleted from American History by Obama and Others
-- Sherman Frederick, Las Vegas Review-Journal
-- From "Obama criticized on Twitter for Thanksgiving remarks omitting God" by Amy Hubbard, Washington Post 11/24/11
President Obama devoted his weekly radio address to thanking U.S. service members and volunteers at shelters and soup kitchens. But it's whom he didn't thank that caused a stir on Twitter: God.
According to the White House, Obama personally called 10 service members in Iraq and Afghanistan on Thursday to say happy Thanksgiving. On Wednesday, the president, the first lady and their daughters, Malia and Sasha, did their bit of volunteering, stopping by Washington's Capital Area Foodbank to help fill care packages.
"To give thanks for luck is to deny God much less omit!" tweeted "PastorJeffBrown," whose Twitter account lists him as a rural Oklahoma husband, father and Baptist pastor.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Obama Leaves God out of Thanksgiving Speech, Riles Critics" by Joel Siegel, ABC News 11/25/11
"His remarks were void of any religious references, although Thanksgiving is a holiday traditionally steeped in giving thanks and praise to God," [Fox News' Todd] Starnes wrote.
"The president said his family was 'reflecting on how truly lucky we truly are,'" Starnes said. "For many Americans, though, Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on how blessed and thankful they are."
Obama mentioned God once in a closing "God bless you," to Americans watching the Internet address.
Three of the Republican presidential candidates – Mitt Romney, Newt Gingrich and Rick Santorum – issued Thanksgiving statements that omitted any references to God. Michele Bachmann, Herman Cain and Rick Perry mentioned God in their statements.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
President Abraham Lincoln's 1863 Thanksgiving Day proclamation:
“I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens. And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to his tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquility and Union.”
Also read, Obama Declares He's Christian, Again
Christian Won't Bake Cake for Lesbian 'Wedding'
Victoria Childress, of Victoria’s Cake Cottage in Des Moines, Iowa politely told a lesbian couple that her Christian values do not permit her to recognize their legal "marriage," and although homosexualists launched a boycott, her home-based business has since increased -- once again demonstrating that Iowans are pro-marriage.
-- From "Lesbian couple mulls action against Christian wedding cake baker" by Kathleen Gilbert, LifeSiteNews.com 11/16/11
Same-sex “marriage” was legalized in Iowa in 2009 by the state Supreme Court, and a 2007 state civil rights act disallows discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation in matters of employment, education, housing, and public accommodation.
[Lesbians Trina Vodraska and Janelle Sievers are] unsure whether to file a civil rights complaint with the state. However, the couple has since reportedly released a statement calling Childress a “bigot,” and the baker says she has been deluged with hate mail that she has stopped reading.
Christian businesses in America, including reception site owners and photographers declining to service homosexual couples, have routinely been targeted for lawsuits and harrassment in states that have legalized same-sex “marriage” or civil unions. Often the complaints spread through media, particularly gay blogs, where gay rights supporters are encouraged to keep up pressure on the offenders.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Christian Baker Faces Boycott For Refusing to Make Lesbian Cake" by Todd Starnes, Fox News 11/15/11
Childress told Fox News & Commentary that she made five cakes for the couple to taste – unaware that they were lesbians.
“I was straight-forward with them and explained that I’m a Christian and that I have very strong convictions,” she said. “I chose to be honest about it. They said they appreciated it and left. That was all that was said.”
A spokesperson for the Iowa Civil Rights Commission declined to confirm or deny whether they’ve launched an investigation.
State law only allows exemptions from discrimination laws to a bona fide religious institution.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Iowa Baker Targeted for Refusing to Make 'Wedding' Cake for Lesbian Couple" by Dave Bohon, The New American 11/17/11
. . . [the lesbians] apparently alerted their homosexual activist network, which quickly organized a boycott of Childress’ business. The conflict also attracted the attention of Des Moines television station KCCI, which gave Trina Vodraska a platform to voice her anger at being snubbed by Childress.
In a statement posted on the KCCI website, the lesbian pair claimed that raising awareness of the need for “equality” was their only goal in targeting Childress with attention for her refusal to serve them. They insisted that “it is not about cake or someone’s right to refuse service to a customer. We are grateful for the outpouring of support we have received and hope that by stepping forward we have prevented someone else from experiencing the same type of bigotry.”
In an editorial on the incident the Family Research Council said that most Americans “don’t seem to understand that religious freedom and same-sex ‘marriage’ can never coexist. Why? Because the Left’s definition of ‘tolerance’ is surrender. And until more people like Victoria dig in their heels and refuse, homosexual activists will continue to bully anyone who disagrees with them.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Christian cake maker business increasing after stand for traditional marriage" by Matt Lacy, Greeley Gazette 11/24/11
Childress said what shocked her, was how many Christians condemned her for standing for her convictions. “One of them said Jesus fed the multitude, and I was not being like Jesus because I was not feeding these two women.” She continued, “People treat the bible like a cookbook. They throw out what they don’t like and keep what they like.”
Childress told the Gazette she has no problem making cakes for lesbians; just not a marriage cake. “I believe in the sanctity of marriage. I won’t do ‘naughty cakes’ either for the same reason. I am standing for what the Bible says is right,” Childress said. “If they had come in and asked me to do a birthday cake, even if I knew they were lesbians, I would have done it.”
While she may lose business from homosexuals, she has received an influx of business from around the country. “I have tons of cookies I am now delivering around the country. Normally I don’t do cookies, and people wanted cakes but cakes don’t’ ship very well.” Childress said she has received orders from as far away as Fairbanks, Alaska.
On Tuesday, Childress was busy sending cakes to local homeless shelters for Thanksgiving.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
-- From "Lesbian couple mulls action against Christian wedding cake baker" by Kathleen Gilbert, LifeSiteNews.com 11/16/11
Same-sex “marriage” was legalized in Iowa in 2009 by the state Supreme Court, and a 2007 state civil rights act disallows discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation in matters of employment, education, housing, and public accommodation.
[Lesbians Trina Vodraska and Janelle Sievers are] unsure whether to file a civil rights complaint with the state. However, the couple has since reportedly released a statement calling Childress a “bigot,” and the baker says she has been deluged with hate mail that she has stopped reading.
Christian businesses in America, including reception site owners and photographers declining to service homosexual couples, have routinely been targeted for lawsuits and harrassment in states that have legalized same-sex “marriage” or civil unions. Often the complaints spread through media, particularly gay blogs, where gay rights supporters are encouraged to keep up pressure on the offenders.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Christian Baker Faces Boycott For Refusing to Make Lesbian Cake" by Todd Starnes, Fox News 11/15/11
Childress told Fox News & Commentary that she made five cakes for the couple to taste – unaware that they were lesbians.
“I was straight-forward with them and explained that I’m a Christian and that I have very strong convictions,” she said. “I chose to be honest about it. They said they appreciated it and left. That was all that was said.”
A spokesperson for the Iowa Civil Rights Commission declined to confirm or deny whether they’ve launched an investigation.
State law only allows exemptions from discrimination laws to a bona fide religious institution.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Iowa Baker Targeted for Refusing to Make 'Wedding' Cake for Lesbian Couple" by Dave Bohon, The New American 11/17/11
. . . [the lesbians] apparently alerted their homosexual activist network, which quickly organized a boycott of Childress’ business. The conflict also attracted the attention of Des Moines television station KCCI, which gave Trina Vodraska a platform to voice her anger at being snubbed by Childress.
In a statement posted on the KCCI website, the lesbian pair claimed that raising awareness of the need for “equality” was their only goal in targeting Childress with attention for her refusal to serve them. They insisted that “it is not about cake or someone’s right to refuse service to a customer. We are grateful for the outpouring of support we have received and hope that by stepping forward we have prevented someone else from experiencing the same type of bigotry.”
In an editorial on the incident the Family Research Council said that most Americans “don’t seem to understand that religious freedom and same-sex ‘marriage’ can never coexist. Why? Because the Left’s definition of ‘tolerance’ is surrender. And until more people like Victoria dig in their heels and refuse, homosexual activists will continue to bully anyone who disagrees with them.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Christian cake maker business increasing after stand for traditional marriage" by Matt Lacy, Greeley Gazette 11/24/11
Childress said what shocked her, was how many Christians condemned her for standing for her convictions. “One of them said Jesus fed the multitude, and I was not being like Jesus because I was not feeding these two women.” She continued, “People treat the bible like a cookbook. They throw out what they don’t like and keep what they like.”
Childress told the Gazette she has no problem making cakes for lesbians; just not a marriage cake. “I believe in the sanctity of marriage. I won’t do ‘naughty cakes’ either for the same reason. I am standing for what the Bible says is right,” Childress said. “If they had come in and asked me to do a birthday cake, even if I knew they were lesbians, I would have done it.”
While she may lose business from homosexuals, she has received an influx of business from around the country. “I have tons of cookies I am now delivering around the country. Normally I don’t do cookies, and people wanted cakes but cakes don’t’ ship very well.” Childress said she has received orders from as far away as Fairbanks, Alaska.
On Tuesday, Childress was busy sending cakes to local homeless shelters for Thanksgiving.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Christian Liberty at Risk with a President Romney?
If President Obama becomes a one-term president in favor of Republican Mitt Romney, the current Obama administration Gay Agenda would continue unabated. Although Romney claims he would uphold the Defense of Marriage Act, he espouses the same "gay rights" platform as Obama, particularly emphasizing his favor toward employment non-discrimination based on sexual orientation.
UPDATE 8/13/12: VP nominee Paul Ryan backed by GOP homosexualists because Rep. Ryan voted for Gay Agenda ENDA in 2007
UPDATE 4/29/12: As Mass. governor, Romney wanted to ride fence on same-sex marriage, says liberal media
UPDATE 1/30/12: Romney Wins Big with Florida Homosexual Republicans
UPDATE 1/9/12: Romney favors same-sex domestic partnerships
UPDATE 12/21/11: Romney Backs Obama's Homosexual Military Policy
For background, read Congressional Definition of the 'Radical Homosexual Agenda' and also read about the progression of ENDA (federal Employment Non-Discrimination Act) and also read about Romney & Abortion: Liberals Attack From Both Sides
(Complete 11/22/11 video interview with Nashua Telegraph link below)
-- From "Romney denies change since ’08" by Jake Berry, Staff Writer, Nashua Telegraph 11/22/11
Asked about the accusations of flip-flops, Romney said he has stayed consistent on the issue of same-sex marriage. “I don’t believe in discriminating in employment or opportunity for gay individuals. So I favor gay rights. I do not favor gay marriage,” he said.
But, on the issue of abortion, the candidate acknowledged changing his stance after his time in office.
“When I ran for governor, I said I wouldn’t change the law (on abortion). That was effectively a pro-choice position. I changed to being adamantly pro-life,” Romney said.
To read the entire article above and to view the entire 30-minute interview video, CLICK HERE.
From "Romney supports “gay rights”, but not gay marriage" by Staff Writer, PinkNews.co.uk 11/22/11
US Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney has responded to claims by the Obama administration that he has constantly changed his position on LGBT equality.
During Romney’s unsuccessful bid for the late Ted Kennedy’s senate seat in 1994, and again during his successful campaign for governor in 2002, he ran as a staunch LGBT ally.
Romney vowed to end workplace discrimination against the state’s gay community and promised to support civil partnerships for same-sex couples.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Rick Santorum: Mitt Romney Is 'To The Left' Of President Obama On Gay Rights" by Hayley Miller, The Huffington Post 11/14/11
"I would argue that Mitt Romney, as governor of Massachusetts, was to the left of Barack Obama on gay marriage," Santorum told [talk radio host Laura] Ingraham when asked about how Romney might react to a proposed repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act, a 1996 law defining federal marriage as being between one man and one woman.
"If you want to see the contrast, the contrast is there. [I'm a] solid conservative who stood and fought for [DOMA], opposed to Mitt Romney, who issued gay marriage licenses and actually violated the constitution of Massachusetts to institute gay marriage in the state," he added.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "NH gay marriage push highlights GOP shifts" by Steve Peoples, Associated Press 11/24/11
[New Hampshire] State lawmakers plan in the coming weeks to take up a measure to repeal the law allowing same-sex couples to wed and a vote is expected at some point in January -- the same month as New Hampshire holds the nation's first Republican presidential primary contest.
Romney was the Massachusetts governor when his state legalized gay marriage. The Romney administration, as directed by the courts, granted nearly 200 same-sex marriage requests for gay and lesbian couples in 2005.
This past June, he said during a debate that he favors a federal constitutional amendment banning the practice. That's been his position at least since the beginning of his 2008 presidential bid, when he was the only major Republican candidate to support such an amendment.
But as a Massachusetts Senate candidate back in 1994, Romney told a Boston-area gay newspaper that same-sex marriage is "a state issue as you know -- the authorization of marriage on a same-sex basis falls under state jurisdiction." Aides say it's unfair to scrutinize Romney's position in 1994 -- when there was virtually no discussion of a federal amendment. And they suggest Romney's rivals have far more blatant inconsistencies in recent months.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Will the real Mitt Romney please stand up?" by Chris Johnson, Washington Blade 6/15/11
Romney’s support for employment rights — through ENDA [federal Employment Non-Discrimination Act] or otherwise — is unusual for Republican presidential candidates early on during the primary season.
. . . support for ENDA from Romney would be consistent with a previously articulated position he held in 1994 when he was running against the late Sen. Edward Kennedy for his seat representing Massachusetts in the U.S. Senate.
Additionally, Romney pledged to “make equality for gays and lesbians a mainstream concern” and said Kennedy, who was known as a champion of LGBT rights in the Senate, would be unable to make that promise to the LGBT community.
“We have discussed a number of important issues such as the Federal Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), which I have agreed to co-sponsor, and if possible broaden to include housing and credit, and the bill to create a federal panel to find ways to reduce gay and lesbian youth suicide, which I also support,” Romney wrote.
According to a 1994 article from Bay Windows, Romney also articulated support for ENDA during a public meeting of the Massachusetts Log Cabin Club with his then-Republican opponent, John Lakian. The meeting between Republican candidates and the gay group was hailed as a milestone for LGBT rights in Massachusetts.
“I will fight against discrimination of any kind throughout our system,” Romney was quoted as saying. “I don’t know exactly where you legislate and where you don’t legislate or how you make that work and where you don’t. But I am not limiting my support of equal rights for all people just to [U.S. Rep.] Barney Frank’s legislation in the area of employment. I would be happy to continue the fight in other areas such as credit and housing.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read 2012: Obama vs. an Evangelical, or vs. a Mormon?
UPDATE 12/29/11: 850 Rabbis, Rabbinical Alliance of America Calls Romney 'Dangerous Homosexualist' (video):
“I don’t believe in discriminating in employment or opportunity for gay individuals. So I favor gay rights.”As explained by the mainstream media, "gay rights" is a zero-sum game: Winning homosexual 'rights' means Christians must lose freedom of religion.
-- Mitt Romney told Nashua Telegraph 11/22/11
UPDATE 8/13/12: VP nominee Paul Ryan backed by GOP homosexualists because Rep. Ryan voted for Gay Agenda ENDA in 2007
UPDATE 4/29/12: As Mass. governor, Romney wanted to ride fence on same-sex marriage, says liberal media
UPDATE 1/30/12: Romney Wins Big with Florida Homosexual Republicans
UPDATE 1/9/12: Romney favors same-sex domestic partnerships
UPDATE 12/21/11: Romney Backs Obama's Homosexual Military Policy
For background, read Congressional Definition of the 'Radical Homosexual Agenda' and also read about the progression of ENDA (federal Employment Non-Discrimination Act) and also read about Romney & Abortion: Liberals Attack From Both Sides
(Complete 11/22/11 video interview with Nashua Telegraph link below)
-- From "Romney denies change since ’08" by Jake Berry, Staff Writer, Nashua Telegraph 11/22/11
Asked about the accusations of flip-flops, Romney said he has stayed consistent on the issue of same-sex marriage. “I don’t believe in discriminating in employment or opportunity for gay individuals. So I favor gay rights. I do not favor gay marriage,” he said.
But, on the issue of abortion, the candidate acknowledged changing his stance after his time in office.
“When I ran for governor, I said I wouldn’t change the law (on abortion). That was effectively a pro-choice position. I changed to being adamantly pro-life,” Romney said.
To read the entire article above and to view the entire 30-minute interview video, CLICK HERE.
From "Romney supports “gay rights”, but not gay marriage" by Staff Writer, PinkNews.co.uk 11/22/11
US Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney has responded to claims by the Obama administration that he has constantly changed his position on LGBT equality.
During Romney’s unsuccessful bid for the late Ted Kennedy’s senate seat in 1994, and again during his successful campaign for governor in 2002, he ran as a staunch LGBT ally.
Romney vowed to end workplace discrimination against the state’s gay community and promised to support civil partnerships for same-sex couples.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Rick Santorum: Mitt Romney Is 'To The Left' Of President Obama On Gay Rights" by Hayley Miller, The Huffington Post 11/14/11
"I would argue that Mitt Romney, as governor of Massachusetts, was to the left of Barack Obama on gay marriage," Santorum told [talk radio host Laura] Ingraham when asked about how Romney might react to a proposed repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act, a 1996 law defining federal marriage as being between one man and one woman.
"If you want to see the contrast, the contrast is there. [I'm a] solid conservative who stood and fought for [DOMA], opposed to Mitt Romney, who issued gay marriage licenses and actually violated the constitution of Massachusetts to institute gay marriage in the state," he added.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "NH gay marriage push highlights GOP shifts" by Steve Peoples, Associated Press 11/24/11
[New Hampshire] State lawmakers plan in the coming weeks to take up a measure to repeal the law allowing same-sex couples to wed and a vote is expected at some point in January -- the same month as New Hampshire holds the nation's first Republican presidential primary contest.
Romney was the Massachusetts governor when his state legalized gay marriage. The Romney administration, as directed by the courts, granted nearly 200 same-sex marriage requests for gay and lesbian couples in 2005.
This past June, he said during a debate that he favors a federal constitutional amendment banning the practice. That's been his position at least since the beginning of his 2008 presidential bid, when he was the only major Republican candidate to support such an amendment.
But as a Massachusetts Senate candidate back in 1994, Romney told a Boston-area gay newspaper that same-sex marriage is "a state issue as you know -- the authorization of marriage on a same-sex basis falls under state jurisdiction." Aides say it's unfair to scrutinize Romney's position in 1994 -- when there was virtually no discussion of a federal amendment. And they suggest Romney's rivals have far more blatant inconsistencies in recent months.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Will the real Mitt Romney please stand up?" by Chris Johnson, Washington Blade 6/15/11
Romney’s support for employment rights — through ENDA [federal Employment Non-Discrimination Act] or otherwise — is unusual for Republican presidential candidates early on during the primary season.
. . . support for ENDA from Romney would be consistent with a previously articulated position he held in 1994 when he was running against the late Sen. Edward Kennedy for his seat representing Massachusetts in the U.S. Senate.
Additionally, Romney pledged to “make equality for gays and lesbians a mainstream concern” and said Kennedy, who was known as a champion of LGBT rights in the Senate, would be unable to make that promise to the LGBT community.
“We have discussed a number of important issues such as the Federal Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), which I have agreed to co-sponsor, and if possible broaden to include housing and credit, and the bill to create a federal panel to find ways to reduce gay and lesbian youth suicide, which I also support,” Romney wrote.
According to a 1994 article from Bay Windows, Romney also articulated support for ENDA during a public meeting of the Massachusetts Log Cabin Club with his then-Republican opponent, John Lakian. The meeting between Republican candidates and the gay group was hailed as a milestone for LGBT rights in Massachusetts.
“I will fight against discrimination of any kind throughout our system,” Romney was quoted as saying. “I don’t know exactly where you legislate and where you don’t legislate or how you make that work and where you don’t. But I am not limiting my support of equal rights for all people just to [U.S. Rep.] Barney Frank’s legislation in the area of employment. I would be happy to continue the fight in other areas such as credit and housing.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read 2012: Obama vs. an Evangelical, or vs. a Mormon?
UPDATE 12/29/11: 850 Rabbis, Rabbinical Alliance of America Calls Romney 'Dangerous Homosexualist' (video):
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Colorado Personhood on the Ballot in 2012, Again
Denver-based Personhood USA has submitted new language for another attempt, in 2012, whereby voters may amend the Colorado constitution to define life from the moment of fertilization, after defeats of similar measures in 2008 and 2010.
For background, read Abortionists Fear Personhood Movement Gaining Steam and also read Vote to Ban All Abortion: Nevada Personhood as well as Mississippi Failed to Negate Roe v. Wade via Personhood
UPDATE 8/30/12: Personhood leaders challenge secretary of state rejection of petition drive
-- From "Personhood USA again pushes for right-to-life amendment to Colorado Constitution" by Electa Draper, The Denver Post 11/22/11
If the secretary of state approves the language, proponents will need to collect about 79,000 valid voter signatures to get on the ballot again.
The 2012 Personhood Amendment would add a new section to the state constitution to "affirm basic human dignity" and guarantee that the right to life "applies equally to all innocent persons" and "the intentional killing of any innocent person is prohibited."
The 2012 language states that only birth control, in-vitro fertilization and assisted reproduction "that kill a person" shall be affected by this amendment.
Spontaneous miscarriages and medical treatment for life-threatening physical conditions intended to preserve life would not be affected by the amendment, the much-longer 2012 measure reads.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Personhood backers hope third time's the charm" by Eli Stokols, Political Reporter KDVR-TV31 (Denver) 11/21/11
The revised amendment would add language to the Colorado Constitution guaranteeing the right to life "applies equally to all innocent persons" and that "the intentional killing of any innocent person is prohibited."
Personhood's reemergence during a major presidential election year could also be a boon for Democrats as they look to adopt Sen. Michael Bennet's successful 2010 strategy -- targeting moderate, suburban women voters -- in an effort to help Obama win this most crucial swing state.
On Monday, Colorado Democratic Party Chairman Rick Palacio wasted little time issuing a press release highlighting the stance of the likeliest GOP presidential nominee, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, who expressed support for the measure when it was on the ballot this year in Mississippi.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Personhood measure heading back to ballot" by Ernest Luning, The Colorado Statesman 11/23/11
On Monday, Arvada-based Personhood USA unveiled a measure that’s been substantially rewritten from ballot initiatives Colorado voters shot down by wide margins in the last two general elections.
The measure, dubbed Amendment 48 on the 2008 state ballot, received 585,561 “yes” votes against 1,605,978 “no” votes, going down 73-27 percent. Two years later, when it appeared on the ballot as Amendment 62, the personhood question got 509,062 “yes” votes and 1,218,490 “no” votes in the lower-turnout election, or roughly 71-29 percent.
The proposal’s sponsors said the more detailed language might prevent opponents from fielding “lies and scare tactics” against the measure and keep the debate focused on the more fundamental question about when life begins.
Colorado GOP Chairman Ryan Call declined to predict whether the state party would back the measure, noting that an endorsement would have to make it through a multi-step resolution process. He acknowledged, however, that the issue could split Republicans.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Colorado Personhood Amendment Back, Failed Twice Before" by Steven Ertelt, LifeNews.com 11/21/11
During the 2008 and 2010 amendments, major pro-life groups including Focus on the Family, the state’s Catholic bishops, Colorado Citizens for Life, National Right to Life, Americans United for Life, Eagle Forum, and others either took a neutral position on the amendment or supported it but did not expend significant time or resources fighting for it because of the potential negative legal ramifications. Some pro-life groups indicated Colorado taxpayers could be stuck with the legal bills for Planned Parenthood if the abortion business wins a legal challenge against it.
The same groups will likely be expected to stay on the sidelines again as the focus on the greater pro-life goal of ending abortions by defeating pro-abortion President Barack Obama and installing a pro-life president in the White House who could change the makeup of the Supreme Court enough to allow for legal protection for unborn children.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
For background, read Abortionists Fear Personhood Movement Gaining Steam and also read Vote to Ban All Abortion: Nevada Personhood as well as Mississippi Failed to Negate Roe v. Wade via Personhood
UPDATE 8/30/12: Personhood leaders challenge secretary of state rejection of petition drive
-- From "Personhood USA again pushes for right-to-life amendment to Colorado Constitution" by Electa Draper, The Denver Post 11/22/11
If the secretary of state approves the language, proponents will need to collect about 79,000 valid voter signatures to get on the ballot again.
The 2012 Personhood Amendment would add a new section to the state constitution to "affirm basic human dignity" and guarantee that the right to life "applies equally to all innocent persons" and "the intentional killing of any innocent person is prohibited."
The 2012 language states that only birth control, in-vitro fertilization and assisted reproduction "that kill a person" shall be affected by this amendment.
Spontaneous miscarriages and medical treatment for life-threatening physical conditions intended to preserve life would not be affected by the amendment, the much-longer 2012 measure reads.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Personhood backers hope third time's the charm" by Eli Stokols, Political Reporter KDVR-TV31 (Denver) 11/21/11
The revised amendment would add language to the Colorado Constitution guaranteeing the right to life "applies equally to all innocent persons" and that "the intentional killing of any innocent person is prohibited."
Personhood's reemergence during a major presidential election year could also be a boon for Democrats as they look to adopt Sen. Michael Bennet's successful 2010 strategy -- targeting moderate, suburban women voters -- in an effort to help Obama win this most crucial swing state.
On Monday, Colorado Democratic Party Chairman Rick Palacio wasted little time issuing a press release highlighting the stance of the likeliest GOP presidential nominee, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, who expressed support for the measure when it was on the ballot this year in Mississippi.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Personhood measure heading back to ballot" by Ernest Luning, The Colorado Statesman 11/23/11
On Monday, Arvada-based Personhood USA unveiled a measure that’s been substantially rewritten from ballot initiatives Colorado voters shot down by wide margins in the last two general elections.
The measure, dubbed Amendment 48 on the 2008 state ballot, received 585,561 “yes” votes against 1,605,978 “no” votes, going down 73-27 percent. Two years later, when it appeared on the ballot as Amendment 62, the personhood question got 509,062 “yes” votes and 1,218,490 “no” votes in the lower-turnout election, or roughly 71-29 percent.
The proposal’s sponsors said the more detailed language might prevent opponents from fielding “lies and scare tactics” against the measure and keep the debate focused on the more fundamental question about when life begins.
Colorado GOP Chairman Ryan Call declined to predict whether the state party would back the measure, noting that an endorsement would have to make it through a multi-step resolution process. He acknowledged, however, that the issue could split Republicans.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Colorado Personhood Amendment Back, Failed Twice Before" by Steven Ertelt, LifeNews.com 11/21/11
During the 2008 and 2010 amendments, major pro-life groups including Focus on the Family, the state’s Catholic bishops, Colorado Citizens for Life, National Right to Life, Americans United for Life, Eagle Forum, and others either took a neutral position on the amendment or supported it but did not expend significant time or resources fighting for it because of the potential negative legal ramifications. Some pro-life groups indicated Colorado taxpayers could be stuck with the legal bills for Planned Parenthood if the abortion business wins a legal challenge against it.
The same groups will likely be expected to stay on the sidelines again as the focus on the greater pro-life goal of ending abortions by defeating pro-abortion President Barack Obama and installing a pro-life president in the White House who could change the makeup of the Supreme Court enough to allow for legal protection for unborn children.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Christians Flex Muscles/Wallets: Gov't Influence
The number of religion-related lobbying groups in Washington has grown five-fold in the past 40 years, with their spending reaching almost $400 million annually, the Pew Research Center’s Forum on Religion & Public Life latest study showed. It identified 212 groups, up from 158 a decade ago and 40 in 1970.
This certainly doesn't make the liberal media happy.
-- From "Religion-related lobby groups thrive in Washington, grew 5 times in 40 years" posted at Reuters 11/22/11
. . . in 2008, the Family Research Council spent $14 million and the American Jewish Committee $13 million.
In 2009, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops spent $27 million, Concerned Women for America $13 million, Bread for the World $11 million, the National Right to Life Committee $11 million and the Home School Legal Defense Association $11 million.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Study: Religious lobbying soars in D.C." by MJ Lee, Politico 11/22/11
. . . the economic downturn seems to have taken a toll on the expenditure of many religion-related advocacy groups, the study shows. Of the 104 groups for which expenditure data were available for 2008 and 2009, 56 of them said their spending was lower in 2009 than in the previous year, with an average decline in spending of about $500,000. The 104 groups altogether saw a net drop in spending of about $14 million during the two-year period.
The study found 15 percent of the groups that answered a questionnaire on their activities said meeting with officials was their most frequently used method of advocacy. This came in second after the most popular strategy — educating constituents on issues — which 41 percent of the groups cited as their most-used method.
The study shows that a majority of the groups, 64 percent, work on both domestic and foreign issues, while 20 percent engage in domestic issues only. The domestic topic most commonly addressed by the groups include the relationship between church and state, civil rights and liberties for religious and other minorities, life issues (such as abortion and capital punishment) and family and marriage.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Religious lobbying groups multiply on Capitol Hill" by Michelle Boorstein, Washington Post 11/21/11
The biggest spenders, the survey says, include the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, and established social conservative groups focusing on abortion, same-sex marriage and home-schooling.
Some longtime Hill advocates highlighted the report’s finding that the vast majority of religious advocates stick to softer education-type outreach and don’t get into explicit politics, such as donating money to candidates. Others said the report showed how tiny the field is, compared with the tens of thousands of mostly corporate lobbyists that have ballooned in number in Washington.
Compared with their numbers in the U.S. population, Muslims and Jews make up a bigger chunk of advocates. There are 17 Muslim advocacy groups and 25 Jewish advocacy groups, while the faith groups represent less than 1 percent and 1.7 percent of the American public, respectively, according to Pew.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Lobbying for the Faithful" posted at Pew Research Center Publications 11/21/11
Of the 212 groups studied, about half (51%) address domestic church-state issues, such as debates over public displays of religion, hate-crime laws and school vouchers. A similar portion (48%) works on civil rights and liberties, such as gay rights, women’s rights, workers’ rights and the rights of religious and ethnic minorities.
About four in-ten groups in the study (42%) work on bioethics and life issues, which include abortion, capital punishment, stem cell research and end-of-life issues. Roughly as many (39%) address family and marriage issues, including the definition of marriage, domestic violence and fatherhood initiatives. About one-in-six groups (17%) work on other domestic issues, a catch-all category that includes corporate accountability/responsibility, limited government/private enterprise, elections/campaign finance, capitalism, volunteerism and veterans’ issues.
To read the entire Pew study, CLICK HERE.
This certainly doesn't make the liberal media happy.
-- From "Religion-related lobby groups thrive in Washington, grew 5 times in 40 years" posted at Reuters 11/22/11
. . . in 2008, the Family Research Council spent $14 million and the American Jewish Committee $13 million.
In 2009, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops spent $27 million, Concerned Women for America $13 million, Bread for the World $11 million, the National Right to Life Committee $11 million and the Home School Legal Defense Association $11 million.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Study: Religious lobbying soars in D.C." by MJ Lee, Politico 11/22/11
. . . the economic downturn seems to have taken a toll on the expenditure of many religion-related advocacy groups, the study shows. Of the 104 groups for which expenditure data were available for 2008 and 2009, 56 of them said their spending was lower in 2009 than in the previous year, with an average decline in spending of about $500,000. The 104 groups altogether saw a net drop in spending of about $14 million during the two-year period.
The study found 15 percent of the groups that answered a questionnaire on their activities said meeting with officials was their most frequently used method of advocacy. This came in second after the most popular strategy — educating constituents on issues — which 41 percent of the groups cited as their most-used method.
The study shows that a majority of the groups, 64 percent, work on both domestic and foreign issues, while 20 percent engage in domestic issues only. The domestic topic most commonly addressed by the groups include the relationship between church and state, civil rights and liberties for religious and other minorities, life issues (such as abortion and capital punishment) and family and marriage.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Religious lobbying groups multiply on Capitol Hill" by Michelle Boorstein, Washington Post 11/21/11
The biggest spenders, the survey says, include the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, and established social conservative groups focusing on abortion, same-sex marriage and home-schooling.
Some longtime Hill advocates highlighted the report’s finding that the vast majority of religious advocates stick to softer education-type outreach and don’t get into explicit politics, such as donating money to candidates. Others said the report showed how tiny the field is, compared with the tens of thousands of mostly corporate lobbyists that have ballooned in number in Washington.
Compared with their numbers in the U.S. population, Muslims and Jews make up a bigger chunk of advocates. There are 17 Muslim advocacy groups and 25 Jewish advocacy groups, while the faith groups represent less than 1 percent and 1.7 percent of the American public, respectively, according to Pew.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Lobbying for the Faithful" posted at Pew Research Center Publications 11/21/11
Of the 212 groups studied, about half (51%) address domestic church-state issues, such as debates over public displays of religion, hate-crime laws and school vouchers. A similar portion (48%) works on civil rights and liberties, such as gay rights, women’s rights, workers’ rights and the rights of religious and ethnic minorities.
About four in-ten groups in the study (42%) work on bioethics and life issues, which include abortion, capital punishment, stem cell research and end-of-life issues. Roughly as many (39%) address family and marriage issues, including the definition of marriage, domestic violence and fatherhood initiatives. About one-in-six groups (17%) work on other domestic issues, a catch-all category that includes corporate accountability/responsibility, limited government/private enterprise, elections/campaign finance, capitalism, volunteerism and veterans’ issues.
To read the entire Pew study, CLICK HERE.
Monday, November 21, 2011
Fetuses in Dumpsters Closes Mich. Abortion Clinics
Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette prevailed in court to permanently close the Health Care Clinic in Delta Township (suburban Lansing) and the Women’s Choice Clinic in Saginaw for operating without valid licenses and numerous other violations of laws.
-- From "Abortion Clinics Will Close" by The Associated Press 11/21/11
[Schuette's] office says an investigation included evidence of improper medical records disposal at the two clinics. The investigation began in February, 2010, when Lansing anti-abortion activists searched the dumpster outside the Woman's Choice Clinic and found the remains of 17 fetuses tossed inside. Each fetus was wrapped in medical bag with the name of the mother wrinng on the side along with the date of the abortion.
Schuette says a consent order approved in court Monday provides for the clinics to close permanently. He says the clinics' operators also are barred from opening other abortion clinics.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "State attorney general shuts down Saginaw Township abortion clinic" by Justin L. Engel, The Saginaw News 11/21/11
“To ensure patient safety, state law restricts the organization of for-profit corporations that provide medical care services to licensed medical professionals only,” reads a media statement from Schuette’s office. “The clinics’ owner, Richard Remund, and his wife, Margaret Remund, are not licensed medical professionals.”
“Profit should never come before patient safety, and that’s why state law requires medical facilities to be run by licensed medical professionals,” Schuette said in a statement. “Facilities that fail to follow this important safeguard should not be in business.”
Abortion opponents held vigils near the clinic as part of the “40 Days for Life” campaign that ended earlier this year. Vigil participants included members of Resurrection of the Lord Catholic Church in Standish.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Abortion Clinics Permanently Closed by Michigan Atty General" by Steven Ertelt, LifeNews.com 11/21/11
After receiving a complaint in April 2010 documenting the improper disposal of unborn babies with ordinary trash in dumpsters outside the Health Care Clinic in Delta Township, the Attorney General’s Office launched an investigation in coordination with the Eaton County Sheriff’s Department, Eaton County Prosecutor Jeff Sauter, and the Saginaw County Sheriff’s Department. Results of the joint investigation included evidence the clinics were improperly incorporated and may have violated additional state regulations
Schuette noted evidence uncovered by investigators suggesting the improper disposal of medical records at the clinics has also been referred to the State Bureau of Health Professions for review. Disposing of medical records improperly may subject the associated licensed medical professionals, physicians contracted to provide abortions at the illegal clinic, to disciplinary measures.
“It’s widely known that employees at these facilities tossed unborn babies in the trash, so it is not surprising to find more evidence of callous disregard for state laws intended to protect patient safety,” said [State] Senator Rick Jones. “I applaud Attorney General Schuette for taking steps to hold these facilities accountable.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
-- From "Abortion Clinics Will Close" by The Associated Press 11/21/11
[Schuette's] office says an investigation included evidence of improper medical records disposal at the two clinics. The investigation began in February, 2010, when Lansing anti-abortion activists searched the dumpster outside the Woman's Choice Clinic and found the remains of 17 fetuses tossed inside. Each fetus was wrapped in medical bag with the name of the mother wrinng on the side along with the date of the abortion.
Schuette says a consent order approved in court Monday provides for the clinics to close permanently. He says the clinics' operators also are barred from opening other abortion clinics.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "State attorney general shuts down Saginaw Township abortion clinic" by Justin L. Engel, The Saginaw News 11/21/11
“To ensure patient safety, state law restricts the organization of for-profit corporations that provide medical care services to licensed medical professionals only,” reads a media statement from Schuette’s office. “The clinics’ owner, Richard Remund, and his wife, Margaret Remund, are not licensed medical professionals.”
“Profit should never come before patient safety, and that’s why state law requires medical facilities to be run by licensed medical professionals,” Schuette said in a statement. “Facilities that fail to follow this important safeguard should not be in business.”
Abortion opponents held vigils near the clinic as part of the “40 Days for Life” campaign that ended earlier this year. Vigil participants included members of Resurrection of the Lord Catholic Church in Standish.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Abortion Clinics Permanently Closed by Michigan Atty General" by Steven Ertelt, LifeNews.com 11/21/11
After receiving a complaint in April 2010 documenting the improper disposal of unborn babies with ordinary trash in dumpsters outside the Health Care Clinic in Delta Township, the Attorney General’s Office launched an investigation in coordination with the Eaton County Sheriff’s Department, Eaton County Prosecutor Jeff Sauter, and the Saginaw County Sheriff’s Department. Results of the joint investigation included evidence the clinics were improperly incorporated and may have violated additional state regulations
Schuette noted evidence uncovered by investigators suggesting the improper disposal of medical records at the clinics has also been referred to the State Bureau of Health Professions for review. Disposing of medical records improperly may subject the associated licensed medical professionals, physicians contracted to provide abortions at the illegal clinic, to disciplinary measures.
“It’s widely known that employees at these facilities tossed unborn babies in the trash, so it is not surprising to find more evidence of callous disregard for state laws intended to protect patient safety,” said [State] Senator Rick Jones. “I applaud Attorney General Schuette for taking steps to hold these facilities accountable.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Obama-CHILD-Care is Next, Says Nancy Pelosi
Former Speaker of the House, Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi, who famously shoved ObamaCare down the throats of Americans, promises to re-take control from the Republicans and then pass sweeping new legislation to formally create the ultimate "nanny state."
-- From "‘Princess Nancy’ Pelosi calls Cain ‘clueless’; vows to do more for child care" by Melinda Henneberger, Washington Post 11/17/11
Last week, the California congresswoman hit five cities in five days, barnstorming for money to try to win the 25 more seats it would take to regain control [of the House]. And if that happens — or when, according to her — at the top of her to-do list, she says, will be “doing for child care what we did for health-care reform” — pushing comprehensive change.
. . . Under fire for health-care legislation that conservatives consider a big-government power grab, she’s happy to promise more of the same.
Of the need for child-care legislation, she says, “I could never get a babysitter — have five kids in six years and no one wants to come to your house. . . . And everywhere I go, women say the same thing” about how hard it is to find the kind of reliable care that would make their family lives calmer and work lives more productive. When it comes to “unleashing women” in a way that would boost the economy, she says, “this is a missing link.”
Congress did pass such a bill, in 1971, but President Richard M. Nixon vetoed it because he thought it would undermine families and force them to put children in government-run centers.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
Also read It Takes a Village to Admit Failure
AGENDA: Grinding America Down (full movie on YouTube):
AGENDA: Grinding America Down (Full Movie) FREE to watch for a limited time (click here)! from Copybook Heading Productions LLC on Vimeo.
"I could never get a babysitter"For background on this woman who claims she cares so deeply for children, read Ending Abortion Fed Funding is Deadly Says Pelosi and also read Pelosi, Feminists Talk Equal Pay - Dump Marriage: NOW as well as Nancy Pelosi on Christ's Right to Life
-- Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D) of San Francisco, California
-- From "‘Princess Nancy’ Pelosi calls Cain ‘clueless’; vows to do more for child care" by Melinda Henneberger, Washington Post 11/17/11
Last week, the California congresswoman hit five cities in five days, barnstorming for money to try to win the 25 more seats it would take to regain control [of the House]. And if that happens — or when, according to her — at the top of her to-do list, she says, will be “doing for child care what we did for health-care reform” — pushing comprehensive change.
. . . Under fire for health-care legislation that conservatives consider a big-government power grab, she’s happy to promise more of the same.
Of the need for child-care legislation, she says, “I could never get a babysitter — have five kids in six years and no one wants to come to your house. . . . And everywhere I go, women say the same thing” about how hard it is to find the kind of reliable care that would make their family lives calmer and work lives more productive. When it comes to “unleashing women” in a way that would boost the economy, she says, “this is a missing link.”
Congress did pass such a bill, in 1971, but President Richard M. Nixon vetoed it because he thought it would undermine families and force them to put children in government-run centers.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
Also read It Takes a Village to Admit Failure
AGENDA: Grinding America Down (full movie on YouTube):
AGENDA: Grinding America Down (Full Movie) FREE to watch for a limited time (click here)! from Copybook Heading Productions LLC on Vimeo.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Iowa Christian Presidential Forum Riles Media
Six non-Romney presidential candidates spoke Saturday at the Thanksgiving Family Forum in Des Moines, Iowa about many family issues including the sanctity of life and same-sex "marriage." The hours-long event was overtly Christian, which has caused the mainstream media to either hide the forum from the public, or to attack it, and its backers, as an affront to "the separation of church and state."
For background, read 2012: Obama vs. an Evangelical, or vs. a Mormon? and also read Presidential Candidates Address Christians in D.C. as well as Presidential Candidates: Abortion & Marriage Top Issues and take note that Media Prepare Anti-Christian Campaign for 2012
To see the full video of this most profound forum of the campaign to date, scroll down.
UPDATE 11/23/11: Iowa pro-family/pro-life leaders meet to anoint a non-Romney consensus candidate
-- From "Family Leader forum: Values, confessions in Iowa" by Maggie Haberman, Politico 11/19/11
The event, sponsored by the National Organization for Marriage and the Family Leader — a group led by a longtime activist who played a key role in organizing for caucuses winner Mike Huckabee four years ago — marked an accelerated pitch to a pivotal caucus voting bloc. In addition to Gingrich, Cain and Perry, the table included Ron Paul, Michele Bachmann and Rick Santorum.
But missing was Mitt Romney . . .
Family Leader head Bob Vander Plaats, who last week said Romney was “dissing” the conservative base and predicted it could cost him the nomination . . .
Moderator Frank Luntz, a GOP pollster who was clearly pleased the candidates didn’t lob shots at one another as they have in the other televised debates, said he felt “like Dr. Phil” as he tried to draw confessions about regrets and personal failings out of the candidates at the subdued affair.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Well-choreographed Family Forum boasts several unscripted moments" by Shannon Travis, CNN Political Reporter 11/20/11
A gathering of six Republican presidential candidates and some 3,000 conservatives - most of them Christians - was marked as much by politeness and political posturing as by cheers, tears and jeers.
[The candidates] spoke about their values, ideas, sense of morality and the proper roles for religion and government in society.
Common themes were criticisms of government intrusion into family lives, an emphasis on individual liberties, a calling out of judicial "activism," and the need for greater economic freedoms.
[Moderator Frank] Luntz asked the candidates to describe a personal or professional experience that helped shape their faith and spirituality.
One by one the candidates articulated stories rarely heard on the campaign trail . . .
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Republicans woo social conservatives in Iowa" by Thomas Beaumont, The Associated Press 11/20/11
At an event sponsored by an Iowa Christian group, the candidates tried at times to gain a political edge with potent Iowa conservatives. But some of the discussion turned uncharacteristically personal, with the would-be presidents tearfully revealing formative chapters that shaped their faith.
The format was a sharp departure from the 10 GOP debates that have already been held in the 2012 campaign. Instead of the rapid questions and timed answers of the televised debates, Saturday's forum was held around a large dining table on a stage with fall-themed decorations, aimed at resembling a family Thanksgiving dinner scene. Pollster Frank Luntz moderated the two-hour event, which often flowed conversationally.
Texas' two candidates, Rep. Ron Paul and Gov. Rick Perry, did not offer revealing chapters from their lives as the others did. Paul described his early life during the Depression in Pennsylvania, and Perry, his upbringing in rural west Texas. Perry also described feeling lost upon his discharge from the Air Force at age 27.
Santorum was the most aggressive in trying to establish political edge during the event, arguing that the president must be a cultural warrior pushing for social change that reflects the nation's Judeo-Christian heritage.
Despite the religious theme, the discussion nevertheless revealed deep divisions about the role of government in shaping the nation's culture, illustrated by the libertarian-leaning Paul's rejection of an activist presidency.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Republicans to court Iowa conservatives at Family Leader forum" by Michael A. Memoli, Los Angeles Times 11/19/11
Saturday's Thanksgiving Family Forum is organized by a leading Iowa conservative, Bob Vander Plaats, and his group, the Family Leader.
Vander Plaats, a three-time gubernatorial candidate, founded Family Leader to be a galvanizing force for social conservatives ahead of the state's lead-off nominating caucuses. He also has his critics . . .
"In a lot of ways they’re not attacking Bob Vander Plaats, they’re attacking the one I serve," he said, according to the [Des Moines Register].
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Controversial conservative Bob Vander Plaats and his organization The Family Leader" by Dave Price, WHO-TV13 (Des Moines) 11/18/11
Last year, Vander Plaats helped oust three state Supreme Court justices after the ruling allowing same sex marriages. But earlier this month his group's efforts to help a Republican candidate win a special election Senate race this month in eastern Iowa ended in a lopsided loss.
[Vander Plaats says] "This organization is not a Republican subsidiary. We're very focused on issues that affect the family."
Vander Plaats wants this forum and his group to be the voice for Iowans who believe in lifelong heterosexual marriage, no more abortions and no more homosexuality which the Family Leader labels "distorted sexual behavior".
Figuring out who's paying to keep the doors open and lights for the group is really tough. You can find a list of some of the donors but the way this is all structured, to find everybody is impossible. Iowa Ethics and Campaign Disclosure records show a wide range of donations from $5,000 from the Family Research Council and $5 from a woman, Kathleen Hedger, in Fort Madison, along with donations from hundreds of others with amounts in between. Vander Plaats said, "It's people who believe in our issues, believe in our cause, are motivated to cut the checks."
Those checks totaled more than a million dollars in contributions last year.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Vander Plaats' Culture War Pledge Asked of Presidential Candidates
Full video of Forum:
UPDATE 11/20/11 Video of NBC News reporting zero on the issues content of the forum, instead focusing solely on "crying candidates:"
UPDATE 12/4/11 - Mike Huckabee (FOX News) Presidential Forum, Complete Video:
For background, read 2012: Obama vs. an Evangelical, or vs. a Mormon? and also read Presidential Candidates Address Christians in D.C. as well as Presidential Candidates: Abortion & Marriage Top Issues and take note that Media Prepare Anti-Christian Campaign for 2012
To see the full video of this most profound forum of the campaign to date, scroll down.
UPDATE 11/23/11: Iowa pro-family/pro-life leaders meet to anoint a non-Romney consensus candidate
-- From "Family Leader forum: Values, confessions in Iowa" by Maggie Haberman, Politico 11/19/11
The event, sponsored by the National Organization for Marriage and the Family Leader — a group led by a longtime activist who played a key role in organizing for caucuses winner Mike Huckabee four years ago — marked an accelerated pitch to a pivotal caucus voting bloc. In addition to Gingrich, Cain and Perry, the table included Ron Paul, Michele Bachmann and Rick Santorum.
But missing was Mitt Romney . . .
Family Leader head Bob Vander Plaats, who last week said Romney was “dissing” the conservative base and predicted it could cost him the nomination . . .
Moderator Frank Luntz, a GOP pollster who was clearly pleased the candidates didn’t lob shots at one another as they have in the other televised debates, said he felt “like Dr. Phil” as he tried to draw confessions about regrets and personal failings out of the candidates at the subdued affair.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Well-choreographed Family Forum boasts several unscripted moments" by Shannon Travis, CNN Political Reporter 11/20/11
A gathering of six Republican presidential candidates and some 3,000 conservatives - most of them Christians - was marked as much by politeness and political posturing as by cheers, tears and jeers.
[The candidates] spoke about their values, ideas, sense of morality and the proper roles for religion and government in society.
Common themes were criticisms of government intrusion into family lives, an emphasis on individual liberties, a calling out of judicial "activism," and the need for greater economic freedoms.
[Moderator Frank] Luntz asked the candidates to describe a personal or professional experience that helped shape their faith and spirituality.
One by one the candidates articulated stories rarely heard on the campaign trail . . .
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Republicans woo social conservatives in Iowa" by Thomas Beaumont, The Associated Press 11/20/11
At an event sponsored by an Iowa Christian group, the candidates tried at times to gain a political edge with potent Iowa conservatives. But some of the discussion turned uncharacteristically personal, with the would-be presidents tearfully revealing formative chapters that shaped their faith.
The format was a sharp departure from the 10 GOP debates that have already been held in the 2012 campaign. Instead of the rapid questions and timed answers of the televised debates, Saturday's forum was held around a large dining table on a stage with fall-themed decorations, aimed at resembling a family Thanksgiving dinner scene. Pollster Frank Luntz moderated the two-hour event, which often flowed conversationally.
Texas' two candidates, Rep. Ron Paul and Gov. Rick Perry, did not offer revealing chapters from their lives as the others did. Paul described his early life during the Depression in Pennsylvania, and Perry, his upbringing in rural west Texas. Perry also described feeling lost upon his discharge from the Air Force at age 27.
Santorum was the most aggressive in trying to establish political edge during the event, arguing that the president must be a cultural warrior pushing for social change that reflects the nation's Judeo-Christian heritage.
Despite the religious theme, the discussion nevertheless revealed deep divisions about the role of government in shaping the nation's culture, illustrated by the libertarian-leaning Paul's rejection of an activist presidency.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Republicans to court Iowa conservatives at Family Leader forum" by Michael A. Memoli, Los Angeles Times 11/19/11
Saturday's Thanksgiving Family Forum is organized by a leading Iowa conservative, Bob Vander Plaats, and his group, the Family Leader.
Vander Plaats, a three-time gubernatorial candidate, founded Family Leader to be a galvanizing force for social conservatives ahead of the state's lead-off nominating caucuses. He also has his critics . . .
"In a lot of ways they’re not attacking Bob Vander Plaats, they’re attacking the one I serve," he said, according to the [Des Moines Register].
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Controversial conservative Bob Vander Plaats and his organization The Family Leader" by Dave Price, WHO-TV13 (Des Moines) 11/18/11
Last year, Vander Plaats helped oust three state Supreme Court justices after the ruling allowing same sex marriages. But earlier this month his group's efforts to help a Republican candidate win a special election Senate race this month in eastern Iowa ended in a lopsided loss.
[Vander Plaats says] "This organization is not a Republican subsidiary. We're very focused on issues that affect the family."
Vander Plaats wants this forum and his group to be the voice for Iowans who believe in lifelong heterosexual marriage, no more abortions and no more homosexuality which the Family Leader labels "distorted sexual behavior".
Figuring out who's paying to keep the doors open and lights for the group is really tough. You can find a list of some of the donors but the way this is all structured, to find everybody is impossible. Iowa Ethics and Campaign Disclosure records show a wide range of donations from $5,000 from the Family Research Council and $5 from a woman, Kathleen Hedger, in Fort Madison, along with donations from hundreds of others with amounts in between. Vander Plaats said, "It's people who believe in our issues, believe in our cause, are motivated to cut the checks."
Those checks totaled more than a million dollars in contributions last year.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Vander Plaats' Culture War Pledge Asked of Presidential Candidates
Full video of Forum:
UPDATE 11/20/11 Video of NBC News reporting zero on the issues content of the forum, instead focusing solely on "crying candidates:"
UPDATE 12/4/11 - Mike Huckabee (FOX News) Presidential Forum, Complete Video:
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Abstinence Ed. Yields Lowest Teen Birth Rate Ever
The long-standing national abstinence education emphasis prior to the Obama Administration has been proved effective as teen birth rates dropped significantly from 2008 through 2010, but the mainstream media posit cognitive economic decisions by youngsters account for the behavioral change.
“The 9% drop is impressive but not entirely surprising. This news follows another recent report from the CDC showing that nearly 75% of 15-17 year olds are not having sex.”
For background, read Teen Birth Rate Record Low for U.S. and also read Abstinence Education Effective, Fed Study Shows as well as Obama Funds Teaching Sex, not Abstinence
UPDATE 1/20/12: Fed study shows contraceptives ineffective in lowering teen pregnancy
-- From "U.S. teen birth rate drops to record low in 2010" by David Beasley, Reuters 11/17/11
The teen birth rate in the United States reached an all-time low last year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported on Thursday.
There were 34.3 births per 1,000 teenagers aged 15-19 in 2010 -- a 9 percent drop from the prior year and the lowest rate in the nearly 70 years data has been collected, the CDC said.
The birth rate for teens has gone down for the last three years and in 17 out of the last 19 years, the agency said. In 2010, birth rates also dropped to historic lows for mothers aged 10-14.
Teen pregnancy rates have dropped 44 percent since peaking in 1991 . . .
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "US birth rates dip with the economy, plummet for young women, CDC report shows" by The Associated Press 11/17/11
A federal report released Thursday showed declines in the birth rate for all races and most age groups. Teens and women in their early 20s had the most dramatic dip, to the lowest rates since record-keeping began in the 1940s. Also, the rate of cesarean sections stopped going up for the first time since 1996.
Experts believe the downward trend is tied to the economy, which officially was in a recession from December 2007 until June 2009 and remains weak. The theory is that women with money worries — especially younger women — feel they can’t afford to start a family or add to it.
“I don’t think there’s any doubt now that it was the recession. It could not be anything else,” said Carl Haub, a demographer with the Population Reference Bureau, a Washington, D.C.-based research organization. He was not involved in the new report.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Report: Teen birth rate hits historic low" by Cheryl Wetzstein, The Washington Times 11/17/11
When the 2010 decline is added to the one in 2009, it comes to an “attention-grabbing” 15 percent decline in the teen birthrate in two years, said Bill Albert of the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy.
The news about the teen birthrates likely will be well-received because these births were typically out of wedlock and linked to welfare use, poverty, poor school outcomes and other hardships for women and children. The report found that birthrates fell among all races and teen age groups, including the 10- to 14-year-old group, which dropped to a historic low of 0.4 births per 1,000 girls.
The reasons for the decline in teen births are multifaceted; however, it’s important to first “give credit where credit is due, and that’s to teens themselves,” Mr. Albert said. They have “obviously changed their behavior and are making more responsible decisions about both today and tomorrow, and for their children,” he said.
For instance, most teens now postpone sexual intercourse until they reach age 18 or 19, and when they started having sex, they typically use birth control.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Abstinence Programs Credited With Reducing Teen Birth Rates" by Steven Ertelt, LifeNews.com 11/18/11
Valerie Huber of the National Abstinence Education Association . . . [said] “However, our congratulatory spirit may be given pause when we consider the soaring rates of certain STD’s among all groups including teens. NAEA has long held the view that teen pregnancy prevention programs are not enough,” she said. “Simply curbing teen pregnancy is a short-sighted goal that ignores the larger issue of teen sexual activity that must be addressed. Just because pregnancy is prevented does not mean that STDs are prevented, as these reports illustrate. The myth of ‘protected sex’ is clearly exposed by the high prevalence of STDs in teens and falls tragically short of what is the healthiest message.”
NAEA believes the proven programs of Sexual Risk Avoidance abstinence education have contributed greatly to this positive decline. Against a barrage of disingenuous claims that the abstinence message is unrealistic for teens, NAEA has continued to promote programs that empower teens to make the healthy choice of abstinence. The 22-peer reviewed studies showing the effectiveness of such programs are now being validated in the recent decline in teen birth rates.
But Huber is concerned by numbers showing chlamydia rates are the highest they have been in twenty years and have increased 24% since 2006, with African American teen girls bearing the greatest burden. And while Gonorrhea rates are down, the CDC warns that strains are becoming increasingly resistant to treatment, showing that sexual risk avoidance should be given priority.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
“The 9% drop is impressive but not entirely surprising. This news follows another recent report from the CDC showing that nearly 75% of 15-17 year olds are not having sex.”
For background, read Teen Birth Rate Record Low for U.S. and also read Abstinence Education Effective, Fed Study Shows as well as Obama Funds Teaching Sex, not Abstinence
UPDATE 1/20/12: Fed study shows contraceptives ineffective in lowering teen pregnancy
-- From "U.S. teen birth rate drops to record low in 2010" by David Beasley, Reuters 11/17/11
The teen birth rate in the United States reached an all-time low last year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported on Thursday.
There were 34.3 births per 1,000 teenagers aged 15-19 in 2010 -- a 9 percent drop from the prior year and the lowest rate in the nearly 70 years data has been collected, the CDC said.
The birth rate for teens has gone down for the last three years and in 17 out of the last 19 years, the agency said. In 2010, birth rates also dropped to historic lows for mothers aged 10-14.
Teen pregnancy rates have dropped 44 percent since peaking in 1991 . . .
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "US birth rates dip with the economy, plummet for young women, CDC report shows" by The Associated Press 11/17/11
A federal report released Thursday showed declines in the birth rate for all races and most age groups. Teens and women in their early 20s had the most dramatic dip, to the lowest rates since record-keeping began in the 1940s. Also, the rate of cesarean sections stopped going up for the first time since 1996.
Experts believe the downward trend is tied to the economy, which officially was in a recession from December 2007 until June 2009 and remains weak. The theory is that women with money worries — especially younger women — feel they can’t afford to start a family or add to it.
“I don’t think there’s any doubt now that it was the recession. It could not be anything else,” said Carl Haub, a demographer with the Population Reference Bureau, a Washington, D.C.-based research organization. He was not involved in the new report.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Report: Teen birth rate hits historic low" by Cheryl Wetzstein, The Washington Times 11/17/11
When the 2010 decline is added to the one in 2009, it comes to an “attention-grabbing” 15 percent decline in the teen birthrate in two years, said Bill Albert of the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy.
The news about the teen birthrates likely will be well-received because these births were typically out of wedlock and linked to welfare use, poverty, poor school outcomes and other hardships for women and children. The report found that birthrates fell among all races and teen age groups, including the 10- to 14-year-old group, which dropped to a historic low of 0.4 births per 1,000 girls.
The reasons for the decline in teen births are multifaceted; however, it’s important to first “give credit where credit is due, and that’s to teens themselves,” Mr. Albert said. They have “obviously changed their behavior and are making more responsible decisions about both today and tomorrow, and for their children,” he said.
For instance, most teens now postpone sexual intercourse until they reach age 18 or 19, and when they started having sex, they typically use birth control.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Abstinence Programs Credited With Reducing Teen Birth Rates" by Steven Ertelt, LifeNews.com 11/18/11
Valerie Huber of the National Abstinence Education Association . . . [said] “However, our congratulatory spirit may be given pause when we consider the soaring rates of certain STD’s among all groups including teens. NAEA has long held the view that teen pregnancy prevention programs are not enough,” she said. “Simply curbing teen pregnancy is a short-sighted goal that ignores the larger issue of teen sexual activity that must be addressed. Just because pregnancy is prevented does not mean that STDs are prevented, as these reports illustrate. The myth of ‘protected sex’ is clearly exposed by the high prevalence of STDs in teens and falls tragically short of what is the healthiest message.”
NAEA believes the proven programs of Sexual Risk Avoidance abstinence education have contributed greatly to this positive decline. Against a barrage of disingenuous claims that the abstinence message is unrealistic for teens, NAEA has continued to promote programs that empower teens to make the healthy choice of abstinence. The 22-peer reviewed studies showing the effectiveness of such programs are now being validated in the recent decline in teen birth rates.
But Huber is concerned by numbers showing chlamydia rates are the highest they have been in twenty years and have increased 24% since 2006, with African American teen girls bearing the greatest burden. And while Gonorrhea rates are down, the CDC warns that strains are becoming increasingly resistant to treatment, showing that sexual risk avoidance should be given priority.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Defeat Marriage, Says Starbucks, Other Corporations
Scores of businesses have filed a legal brief urging the court to overturn the 1996 federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), arguing that the law inhibits the companies from favoring same-sex employees as they desire. Advocates for the destruction of the familial basis for society include Starbucks, Google, Nike, CBS, Aetna, Levi, Microsoft, New Balance, Time Warner, Xerox and many others.
For background, read Largest Corporations Stampede to Support 'Gay Agenda'
In addition, read Traditional Marriage Law Unconstitutional: Federal Judge on DOMA and also read Obama, Senate Full Assault on Marriage
UPDATE 1/27/12: Starbucks Says Legalizing Same-Sex Marriage ‘Is Core to Who We Are and What We Value’
UPDATE 3/5/12: Professional Sports Leagues Embrace Gay Agenda
UPDATE 3/8/14: Christian Sports Commentator Fired for Supporting Natural Marriage
UPDATE 4/2/14: Homosexualists Force Pro-marriage Internet CEO Resignation
UPDATE 7/3/14: Corporations Embrace Gay Agenda, With a Vengeance
UPDATE 7/27/14: Iowa Newspaper Fires Editor for Opposing Gay Agenda
-- From "Starbucks, Levi urge gay 'marriage' recognition" by Michael Foust, associate editor of Baptist Press 11/11/11
The friend-of-the-court brief asks the U.S. First Circuit Court of Appeals to uphold a 2010 lower court ruling that struck down part of the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act. In that ruling, Judge Joseph L. Tauro said the federal government must recognize gay "marriages" from such states as Massachusetts, Vermont and the other four states where it's legal.
"Our burden arises because federal law intrudes to conflict with state law, forcing the employer to create two groups of married employees, and to treat one group differently from another," the brief states. "... DOMA forces amici to investigate the gender of the spouses of our lawfully married employees and then to single out those employees with a same-sex spouse."
The Defense of Marriage Act, the brief says, leads to higher taxes on same-sex spouses and harms morale.
Essentially, the companies are asking the federal government to help them save money. The New York Times reported in May that some companies already are making up for the tax disparity by actually paying the extra tax for gay employees.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
Also read Starbucks CEO Shuns Church, per Homosexualists' Demand
For background, read Largest Corporations Stampede to Support 'Gay Agenda'
In addition, read Traditional Marriage Law Unconstitutional: Federal Judge on DOMA and also read Obama, Senate Full Assault on Marriage
UPDATE 1/27/12: Starbucks Says Legalizing Same-Sex Marriage ‘Is Core to Who We Are and What We Value’
UPDATE 3/5/12: Professional Sports Leagues Embrace Gay Agenda
UPDATE 3/8/14: Christian Sports Commentator Fired for Supporting Natural Marriage
UPDATE 4/2/14: Homosexualists Force Pro-marriage Internet CEO Resignation
UPDATE 7/3/14: Corporations Embrace Gay Agenda, With a Vengeance
UPDATE 7/27/14: Iowa Newspaper Fires Editor for Opposing Gay Agenda
-- From "Starbucks, Levi urge gay 'marriage' recognition" by Michael Foust, associate editor of Baptist Press 11/11/11
The friend-of-the-court brief asks the U.S. First Circuit Court of Appeals to uphold a 2010 lower court ruling that struck down part of the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act. In that ruling, Judge Joseph L. Tauro said the federal government must recognize gay "marriages" from such states as Massachusetts, Vermont and the other four states where it's legal.
"Our burden arises because federal law intrudes to conflict with state law, forcing the employer to create two groups of married employees, and to treat one group differently from another," the brief states. "... DOMA forces amici to investigate the gender of the spouses of our lawfully married employees and then to single out those employees with a same-sex spouse."
The Defense of Marriage Act, the brief says, leads to higher taxes on same-sex spouses and harms morale.
Essentially, the companies are asking the federal government to help them save money. The New York Times reported in May that some companies already are making up for the tax disparity by actually paying the extra tax for gay employees.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
Also read Starbucks CEO Shuns Church, per Homosexualists' Demand
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Homosexuals Concentrated in Federal Government
As hundreds of federal homosexualists celebrated the life of the late Frank Kameny, the "father" of the 20th Century homosexual government infiltration, their utter domination of the Obama Administration is glaring.
For background, read Obama's Advancement of the Gay Agenda Enumerated (list of 39 accomplishments of the Gay Agenda) and also read Homosexuals Drawn to D.C. in Droves whereas census shows Same-sex Household Count Tiny Elsewhere
-- From "Gay Rights Pioneer to be Honored on Capitol Hill" by Brett Zongker, Associated Press 11/15/11
Members of Congress and [openly homosexual] U.S. Office of Personnel Management Director John Berry . . . honor[ed] Kameny with a service at the Cannon House Office Building on Tuesday.
Kameny is credited with staging the first gay rights protests in front of the White House and Philadelphia's Independence Hall. He had been fired from his job as a government astronomer for being gay. Kameny took that case to the Supreme Court 50 years ago.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Gay federal workers say they’re only partway to equality" by Lisa Rein, Washington Post 11/15/11
The crowd of 250 lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender employees of federal Washington [celebrated Kameny].
As the Partnership for Public Service releases results Wednesday from its annual Best Places to Work survey — which ranks agencies on such key issues as support for diversity — the federal world is awash in symbols of partway progress for LGBT employees.
There are definite signs of change: More than 200 LGBT presidential appointees serve under President Obama, among them the first two who are openly transgender.
With 2 million people, the government is the largest employer in America and sets the tone for a lot of private companies.
“The glass is a third full,” says Diego Sanchez, a transgender aide to Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.) who leads a new group for LGBT employees called the Federal Equality Council. “We need to step up the pace.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Frank Kameny Memorial: Gay Rights Pioneer Honored In Washington" reported by Huffington Post 11/16/11
“His life cleared the path that I and countless others followed into public service,” John Berry, the director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, who in 2009 became the Obama administration’s highest-level gay appointment, told the gathering, according to the Washington Blade. “His unrelenting and unceasing fight for gay rights enabled other Americans to step out of the closet and into the full light of equality. But most importantly, his long battle and eventual triumphs show the miracles that one person wrought upon the world.”
Kameny, who died Oct. 11 at age 86, became a pioneer in the LGBT movement when, after being fired from his government job in 1957 for being gay, he took his case before the Supreme Court in 1961. In 1965 he helped organize the first gay rights march in front of the White House.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Homosexualists to Buy White House, Say Media
For background, read Obama's Advancement of the Gay Agenda Enumerated (list of 39 accomplishments of the Gay Agenda) and also read Homosexuals Drawn to D.C. in Droves whereas census shows Same-sex Household Count Tiny Elsewhere
-- From "Gay Rights Pioneer to be Honored on Capitol Hill" by Brett Zongker, Associated Press 11/15/11
Members of Congress and [openly homosexual] U.S. Office of Personnel Management Director John Berry . . . honor[ed] Kameny with a service at the Cannon House Office Building on Tuesday.
Kameny is credited with staging the first gay rights protests in front of the White House and Philadelphia's Independence Hall. He had been fired from his job as a government astronomer for being gay. Kameny took that case to the Supreme Court 50 years ago.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Gay federal workers say they’re only partway to equality" by Lisa Rein, Washington Post 11/15/11
The crowd of 250 lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender employees of federal Washington [celebrated Kameny].
As the Partnership for Public Service releases results Wednesday from its annual Best Places to Work survey — which ranks agencies on such key issues as support for diversity — the federal world is awash in symbols of partway progress for LGBT employees.
There are definite signs of change: More than 200 LGBT presidential appointees serve under President Obama, among them the first two who are openly transgender.
With 2 million people, the government is the largest employer in America and sets the tone for a lot of private companies.
“The glass is a third full,” says Diego Sanchez, a transgender aide to Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.) who leads a new group for LGBT employees called the Federal Equality Council. “We need to step up the pace.”
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Frank Kameny Memorial: Gay Rights Pioneer Honored In Washington" reported by Huffington Post 11/16/11
“His life cleared the path that I and countless others followed into public service,” John Berry, the director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, who in 2009 became the Obama administration’s highest-level gay appointment, told the gathering, according to the Washington Blade. “His unrelenting and unceasing fight for gay rights enabled other Americans to step out of the closet and into the full light of equality. But most importantly, his long battle and eventual triumphs show the miracles that one person wrought upon the world.”
Kameny, who died Oct. 11 at age 86, became a pioneer in the LGBT movement when, after being fired from his government job in 1957 for being gay, he took his case before the Supreme Court in 1961. In 1965 he helped organize the first gay rights march in front of the White House.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
Also read Homosexualists to Buy White House, Say Media
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Dr. Death House Calls - Just Dial 6-6-6
Want doctor-assisted suicide in the convenience of your home? The Dutch voluntary euthanasia society plans to create death-mobiles for ill patients who want to die.
-- From "Dutch group proposes 'mobile' euthanasia teams" by The Associated Press 11/16/11
The Netherlands legalized euthanasia in 2001 in cases where patients are suffering unbearable pain due to illness with no hope of recovery.
Spokeswoman Walburg de Jong of The Right To Die said Wednesday the idea is a logical extension of its plan - not approved by the government - to create a clinic for patients who meet the criteria for euthanasia but whose doctors are unwilling to carry it out.
The number of reported euthanasia cases in the Netherlands rose 19 percent in 2010 to 3,136. A parliamentary-appointed commission is reviewing current policy.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Voluntary euthanasia group plans to set up 'help to die' teams" posted at Dutch News 11/16/11
'Most people want to die at home,' an NVVE spokesman told the paper. The clinic is still on the cards, but will only have a couple of beds for people who cannot die at home, the spokesman said.
The NVVE says only a third of the 10,000 euthanasia requests made every year are actually honoured. This is because the request procedure is complicated and many doctors are not aware of the finer points of the law, the organisation argues.
Euthanasia is legal in the Netherlands under strict conditions. For example, the patient must be suffering unbearable pain and the doctor must be convinced the patient is making an informed choice. The opinion of a second doctor is also required.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
-- From "Dutch group proposes 'mobile' euthanasia teams" by The Associated Press 11/16/11
The Netherlands legalized euthanasia in 2001 in cases where patients are suffering unbearable pain due to illness with no hope of recovery.
Spokeswoman Walburg de Jong of The Right To Die said Wednesday the idea is a logical extension of its plan - not approved by the government - to create a clinic for patients who meet the criteria for euthanasia but whose doctors are unwilling to carry it out.
The number of reported euthanasia cases in the Netherlands rose 19 percent in 2010 to 3,136. A parliamentary-appointed commission is reviewing current policy.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.
From "Voluntary euthanasia group plans to set up 'help to die' teams" posted at Dutch News 11/16/11
'Most people want to die at home,' an NVVE spokesman told the paper. The clinic is still on the cards, but will only have a couple of beds for people who cannot die at home, the spokesman said.
The NVVE says only a third of the 10,000 euthanasia requests made every year are actually honoured. This is because the request procedure is complicated and many doctors are not aware of the finer points of the law, the organisation argues.
Euthanasia is legal in the Netherlands under strict conditions. For example, the patient must be suffering unbearable pain and the doctor must be convinced the patient is making an informed choice. The opinion of a second doctor is also required.
To read the entire article above, CLICK HERE.