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solarbirdHolocaust revisionst anti-gay activists who blame queers for the holocaust (and not those good Germans) are coming into the area - Lynnwood, specifically - and local big anti-gay fundamentalist activists are joining up with them! Endorsing - and speaking at - this filthfest are Joe Fuiten of Faith and Freedom Network (who calls the Southern Poverty Law Centre a "gay front") and, according to them, the Rev. Ken Hutcherson, who spoke before them last year as well. Mike Echelbarger, chair of the board of the Lynnwood Public Facilities District, who operates the facility they'll be using, says that of course they wouldn't have rented to the KKK "of course," but apparently the KKK-equivalent in queer hating is okay;
And since the theoconservative / fundamentalist movement is openly adopting fascist memetics, let's go now over to Bill O'Reilly, who calls warrents, legal defense / trials, and not torturing prisoners "far-left" in condemning the political campaign of John Edwards. I'm linking to Glenn Greenwald's column on this rather than the original transcript mostly because Mr. Greenwald does the grepping through the Federalist Papers for me, so I don't have to. Apparently, the American Founding Fathers were a bunch of leftist America-haters who will destroy America. Damn you, Bill O'Reilly, for destroying Godwin's Law. God damn you to hell. Greenwald links to the Fox News transcript;
The Bush Administraiton launches its "National Abstinence Campaign," which is "no sex until marriage;" queers outside Massacusetts are presumably supposed to have no sex until evar, as one of the commenters points out;
NYC transgender legal defense fund comes to the aid of a natal woman who was thrown out of a women's restroom - and the entire restaurant - for being too butch;
EyeOn08 reports on rumours that the fundamentalist leadership is "warming" to Mitt Romney;
Faith and Freedom Network, supporters of holocaust revisionism as above, endorse James Dobson's absolute rejection of any support for the candidacy of Rudolph Guliani, even if he wins the GOP nomination;
Faith and Freedom Network, supporters of holocaust revisionism as above, are hosting a "Change Your Culture" Youth Leadership Retreat. Said retreat includes Dino Rossi as a featured speaker, along with creationist Casey Luskin of the Discovery Institute;
Faith and Freedom Network shuts down their open replies policy to blog posts, noting that there were too many comments from people who opposed Faith and Freedom Network policies, quoting one reader stating that opponents' "biblical understanding is either twisted or off base," but adding that they'll continue to allow responses "that have substance" to be posted;
FFN says same-sex divorce shouldn't be recognised either, as it implies recognition of same-sex marriage;
Focus on the Family rails against Iowa court decision striking down their local anti-marriage law, howls with indignation that a gay couple managed to get a marriage license through the system before the ruling could be stayed pending appeal, calls for anti-marriage Constitutional amendment;
Separate FotF story railing against Iowa court ruling;
FotF reports on fundamentalist protests trying to prevent a women's health clinic that will provide abortion services from opening; they call it a "stealth" clinic. The best, or worst, part is that what tipped them off? Extra security cameras and bulletproof glass. An anti-abortion construction worker tipped off the anti-abortion activists, who are used to looking for this kind of extra security as normal and necessary. What does this say about them, I ask;
Vermont panel to consider same-sex marriage rights; anti-marriage activists plan to boycott the panel, claiming the panel has already made up its mind;
Focus on the Family quotes Senator Sam Brownback as saying that recognition of same-sex couples caused heterosexual couples to have 80% of childbirths out of wedlock;
FotF condemns New Jersey poll showing a lack of opposition to same-sex civil marriage;
FotF and Focus on the Family's New Jersey state proxy, the New Jersey Family Policy Council - they install these state by state, and have just started one up here - condemn a high school production of The Laramie Project as "homosexual propaganda [with] foul and sexual language";
FotF condemns study in New England Journal of Medicine finding that RU-486, the chemical abortion drug, is safe when used according to FDA guidelines;
Focus on the Family quotes various Republican National Committee members saying that the GOP can't win without the fundamentalists and that the Democrats are "antithetical" to the fundamentalist movement for being "pro-choice" and "anti-traditional marriage";
Illinois city posts billboards at the roads into town declaring, "Welcome to The Village of Alorton. Where Jesus is Lord. Randy McCallum Mayor." Focus on the Family condemns ACLU for even considering action, pretending that the 14th Amendment doesn't exist and that the first amendment still only applies to Congress;
Focus on the Family promotes - as paid ad integrated seamlessly into their news mail (no difference at all, but a note on the website) - the Florida anti-marriage state constitutional amendment;
Focus on the Family ACTION ITEM against ENDA, saying that Christians must be able to fire people for being queer;
Focus on the Family and its California proxy the California Family Policy Council ACTION ITEM against several California bills; one to allow marriage rights for queer couples, one to prohibit anti-gay teaching in public schools, and so on;
FotF condemns Maryland sex-ed programme that is GBLT-inclusive, calling it "student indoctrination";
FotF says MTV is working with Satan in producing a bisexual dating game show;
FotF: Arkansas will have anti-GBLT-adoption initiative in 2008; Focus on the Family's local proxy (Arkansas Family Policy Council) is behind it;
Focus on the Family second ACTION ITEM against ENDA;
FOX's morning show to give airtime to Exodus International (the premere "ex-gay" quakery source);
Focus on the Family condemns New York State comptroller's decision to include same-sex married couples in the state retirement system; the Alliance Defense Fund sued to overturn the state decision, lost this round, and will appeal.
----- 1 -----
Anti-gay church group is coming to Lynnwood
Conference next weekend features anti-gay activist
Everett Herald
By Jackson Holtz, Herald Writer
Saturday, October 13, 2007
http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20071013/NEWS01/710130053
LYNNWOOD -- An anti-gay religious group is planning a three-day conference beginning Friday at the Lynnwood Convention Center.
Watchmen on the Walls expects as many as 700 people to attend the prayer gathering, including religious leaders and an anti-gay activist who claims the Holocaust was perpetrated by gays.
[...]
"Our understanding is that they're law-abiding. They have a right of free speech just like any other group," said Mike Echelbarger, the board's chairman.
"If we were talking about the (Ku Klux Klan) we'd have a totally different take on it. Of course we wouldn't rent to the KKK," he said.
[...]
Among those expected to speak in Lynnwood is Scott Lively, a lawyer from California. He is a "radical anti-gay activist who has all sorts of beliefs about homosexuality and fascism," said Michelle Deutchman, western states counsel for the Anti-Defamation League.
Lively has published a book advancing the theory that gays were responsible for the Nazi holocaust during World War II. Millions of people, including gays, Jews, the mentally retarded and others perished in Nazi concentration camps.
[...]
Also listed as a speaker for the Lynnwood gathering is former Seattle Seahawk Ken Hutcherson. He's now a pastor at the Antioch Bible Church in Kirkland and a vocal opponent to gay marriage.
[...]
The Watchmen group is composed of some of the state's 200,000 Russian speaking immigrants, said Pastor Joe Fuiten of Bothell's Cedar Park Church. He plans to be a featured speaker at the Lynnwood event.
Fuiten, known statewide for rallying the religious right on moral issues, bristled at the Southern Poverty Law Center's characterization of the Watchmen.
"That southern law group, they're a bunch of whackos," Fuiten said. "They're the hate group. That's a gay front, is what that is."
[More at URL]
----- 2 -----
John Edwards' dark leftist America
Glenn Greenwald
Salon
Friday October 12, 2007 05:25 EST
http://www.salon.com/opinion/greenwald/2007/10/12/edwards/index.html
Bill O'Reilly devoted the beginning of his show last night to warning Americans about the dangerous radicalism of John Edwards, proclaiming that "John Edwards has no chance to become president because he's simply too far-left for most Americans." After highlighting all the scary, fringe positions Edwards holds, O'Reilly summarized what the Far-Left America would look like once John Edwards got done with it:
[W]ould you support President John Edwards? Remember, no coerced interrogation, civilian lawyers in courts for captured overseas terrorists, no branding the Iranian guards terrorists, and no phone surveillance without a specific warrant.
Who could even fathom an America plagued by habeas corpus, search warrants, and a military that fails to beat, freeze and mock-execute its detainees? And nothing is more sacred to core American values than branding other countries' armies as "Terrorists" ("The [Revolutionary] Guard is the SS of Iran").
O'Reilly has aptly highlighted here the new ideological divide in our political culture -- one is now on the "Left," usually the "Far Left," if one supports what were previously the defining attributes of basic American liberties, while one is "Serious" and "Responsible" and "Centrist/Right" only if one is too sophisticated and "tough" to actually think that such effete and abstract things matter. Under the cover of darkness, late at night, John Edwards must be reading filthy leftist tracts like this:
[More at URL]
----- 3 -----
Bush Admin Launches National Abstinence Campaign
youtube.com
Online as of 10 October 2007
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sPnI9XAOzvE
[Video]
[...]
moonwatcher13 (15 hours ago)
What are gay people supposed to do? Wait forever?
----- 4 -----
Ejection of a Woman From a Women’s Room Prompts Lawsuit
By Jennifer Lee
October 9, 2007, 2:43 pm
The New York Times
http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/10/09/ejection-of-a-woman-from-a-womens-room-prompts-lawsuit/index.html
City Room has heard of women being thrown out of men’s bathrooms, men who identify as women being thrown out of women’s bathrooms and, of course, men getting into trouble in men’s rooms. But we had not heard of a woman being thrown out of a women’s room — by a worker who didn’t believe she was really a woman — until now.
The woman, Khadijah Farmer, a 28-year-old who lives in Hell’s Kitchen, says she was at the Caliente Cab restaurant in the West Village after the Gay Pride Parade on June 24, when she left the table to go to the women’s room. While she was in there, the male bouncer burst into the bathroom.
[...]
Ms. Farmer, who is lesbian, describes herself as “not the most feminine,” but she has been a woman her entire life. Her New York State non-driver photo identification card clearly lists her sex as female.
[...]
Today, on Ms. Farmer’s behalf, the Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund filed a lawsuit in State Supreme Court in Manhattan against Caliente Cab, asserting that she was the victim of gender discrimination.
[More at URL]
----- 5 -----
Evangelical leaders moving towards Romney? Not so much
EyeOn08.com
10 October 2007
http://www.eyeon08.com/2007/10/11/evangelical-leaders-moving-towards-romney-not-so-much/
This morning, I got an email from a family group leader. He was incredulous. He said:
Our "leaders" testify to the sincere conversion of a guy who today believes the Boy Scouts are wrong to prohibit homosexual Scoutmasters…
That was in response to Ralph Z Hallow’s article about Romney in today’s Washington Times:
Two social conservatives leaders — in surprise moves yesterday — criticized fellow evangelical and Republican presidential hopeful Mike Huckabee, while praising another party hopeful, Mitt Romney, a Mormon.
Still, Family Research Council President Tony Perkins and American Values President Gary Bauer hope the former Massachusetts governor will passionately express his pro-life views at the Values Voter Summit Oct. 19 and 20 at the Washington Hilton.
[More at URL]
----- 6 -----
No compromise for value voters
Faith and Freedom Network
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
http://www.faithandfreedom.us/weblog/2007/10/no-compromise-for-value-voters.html
There has been a growing concern regarding the upcoming 2008 presidential election and what option Christians or "values voters" may have in the general election for U.S. President and other important offices.
[...]
We are not the only people who are concerned about this matter.
James Dobson has best articulated these concerns and some actions that have been taken in this regard in an op-ed to The New York Times. Faith & Freedom supports this position.
[More at URL]
----- 7 -----
Change Your Culture
Youth Leadership Retreat
Faith and Freedom Network
Online a of 15 October 2007
http://www.faithandfreedom.us/index.php
November 16-18, 2007
Cascade Camp & Conference Center
Yelm, Washington
Speakers:
Dino Rossi, former State Senator
Dan Browne, U.S. Olympian
Casey Luskin, Discovery Institute
Colleen McGinness, Hillsdale College
Contact Jon Russell for more information
----- 8 -----
Open Posts on Faith & Freedom Website
Faith and Freedom Network
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
http://www.faithandfreedom.us/weblog/2007/10/open-posts-on-faith-freedom-website.html
I want to personally thank all of you who have responded through both the poll and personal comments sent to me regarding allow open posting on our website.
I want to share a sampling of the kinds of comments we have received and what we have decided going forward.
All the comments we received were supportive of this ministry, except one received this past weekend. I will share that with you in a moment.
People who care about this ministry were generally in favor of discontinuing open posting, although a few felt we should continue.
[...]
This person goes on at length to say that the reason they favor not having open posting is because a very few people dominate the negative side. They say, "These folks seem to have so much time on their hands that they cannot fathom keeping up with them to post and defend my positions. (By the way, I am in complete support of F&F and the positions you are taking on the issues.)"
"In my opinion often times their biblical understanding is either twisted
or off base and they verbally beat up on anybody who disagrees with them."
[...]
We will post hose [sic] comments that have substance, are directly related to the topic and are short and to the point.
Your comments that we post will be posted exactly as we receive them from you. We ask only that you identify the town from which you are responding.
[More at URL]
----- 9 -----
When divorce may mean "marriage"
Faith and Freedom Network
Monday, October 15, 2007
http://www.faithandfreedom.us/weblog/2007/10/when-divorce-may-mean-marriage.html
In 2004, Cassandra Ormiston and Margaret Chambers traveled from their home in Rhode Island, MA, where gay marriage is legal, to be "married."
Last year, they filed for divorce in Rhode Island, where they live.
The Associated Press and local Rhode Island news outlets have been covering the case because of its possible effect on marriage itself.
I have linked the latest article from The Providence Journal from yesterday. It will give you background if you care to read it.
Here is the concern.
The argument being made by counsel for Ormiston is that Rhode Island, which does not allow gay marriage, should recognize the "marriage" or at least grant a "divorce."
Many who support traditional marriage feel they are slowly trying to change public policy to bring about same-sex marriage.
[More at URL]
----- 10 -----
A Same-Sex 'Wedding' in the Heartland of America
Iowa's higher courts will decide if they can continue.
by Jennifer Mesko, associate editor
Focus on the Family
8-31-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLNews/A000005390.cfm
With the help of two elitist judges, two men got "married" in Polk County, Iowa, this morning.
On Thursday, Judge Robert Hanson struck down the state's 1998 Defense of Marriage Act. About two dozen homosexual couples obtained marriage licenses before Hanson issued a stay on his ruling around noon today. In the meantime, Judge Scott Rosenburg agreed to sign an "emergency" waiver allowing one of the couples to marry today rather than wait three days, as required by law.
"There seems to be no end to the judicial arrogance being displayed in Iowa this week," said Bruce Hausknecht, judicial analyst for Focus on the Family Action. "Now it appears that judges can not only write the marriage laws, but they can waive any 'inconvenient' laws otherwise required — one-stop shopping for radical social change."
[more at URL]
----- 11 -----
Renegade Judge Strikes Down Iowa Defense of Marriage Act
Dr. Dobson calls it a 'purely political ruling.'
by Jennifer Mesko, associate editor
Focus on the Family
8-30-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLtopstories/A000005372.cfm
County Judge Robert Hanson decided Thursday that he will make the laws for Iowa. He struck down the state's 1998 Defense of Marriage Act as unconstitutional and ordered Polk County to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples.
Roger J. Kuhle, an assistant county attorney, argued the issue is not for a judge to decide. The county, home to state capital Des Moines, is expected to appeal the ruling to the Iowa Supreme Court.
Dr. James C. Dobson, founder and chairman of Focus on the Family Action, called it another example of a judge legislating from the bench.
[...]
"Sadly, little consideration seems to be given to the next generation of children," said Jenny Tyree, associate marriage analyst for Focus Action. "One judicial decision could change the definition of marriage for every Iowan and deprive more children of either a mother or a father."
[More at URL]
----- 12 -----
Life Advocates Fight Stealth Illinois Abortion Clinic
Around-the-clock protest and prayer aim to keep Planned Parenthood out; lawsuit possible.
by Jennifer Mesko, associate editor
Focus on the Family
8-27-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLtopstories/A000005351.cfm
Planned Parenthood tried to sneak its largest clinic in the country into Aurora, Ill., but residents are having none of it.
Last month, neighbors of the "Gemini Health Clinic" were shocked to learn the $7.5 million facility will actually be used for abortions. On Saturday, more than 1,200 pro-lifers gathered near the building to express their outrage. Some marched with signs, while others prayed or handed out leaflets in the surrounding neighborhoods.
A 24-hour, 40-day prayer vigil began Aug. 9 and organizers say it will continue until the scheduled opening Sept. 18.
Ann Scheidler, executive director of the Pro-Life Action League, said court is next.
[...]
In July, a construction worker became suspicious of the bulletproof glass, excess cameras and the dozen-plus recovery rooms.
Pro-life Aurora Alderman Richard Irvin isn't buying it. "All the while, they are building it to spec, for this type of clinic," he said. "Of course, they knew what this was going to be for."
[Editor's note: This is how they figured out it was a clinic that would provide abortion services: the bulletproof glass and security measures. Note that Mr. Irvin takes this kind of extra security as normal. What does this say about the anti-abortion-rights activists?]
[More at URL]
----- 13 -----
Vermont Panel Considers Marriage Redefinition
A Vermont legislative commission tasked with looking into redefining marriage in the state to include homosexuals met for the first time on Thursday.
Focus on the Family
8-24-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLBriefs/A000005341.cfm
A Vermont legislative commission tasked with looking into redefining marriage in the state to include homosexuals met for the first time on Thursday.
The Rutland Herald reported that the meeting largely dealt with preliminary issues, such as the format of public hearings.
Tom Little, the Republican who is chairing the euphemistically named Commission on Family Recognition and Protection, oversaw the writing of the state's civil-union law seven years ago.
Meanwhile, same-sex marriage opponents announced at the Statehouse that they will be boycotting the commission's future public hearings because they believe the members have already decided to endorse gay marriage.
[More at URL]
----- 14 -----
Washington Briefing Will Equip Values Voters
Early registration ends Sept. 15.
Focus on the Family
from staff reports
8-24-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLtopstories/A000005345.cfm
Values voters from across America will gather in the nation's capital for the Washington Briefing: A Call to Action on Oct. 19-21.
People who attend will hear from presidential hopefuls, national leaders and authors on a wide range of topics of interest to conservatives.
RoseMarie Briggs from Maryland went to last year's event and called it "inspiring."
"It is so important for people across the country to realize they are not alone as they read the headlines and see what’s happening in our schools," she told Family News in Focus. "The moral decline in our country is vivid.”
She said the topic that opened her eyes last year was Sen. Sam Brownback’s speech that detailed how Norway’s recognition of same-sex marriage led to 80 percent of children being born out of wedlock in some parts of the country.
“I was aware it was bad, but I didn’t realize it was that bad," she said. "How can anyone turn a blind eye to the trends that are happening in Europe and not be concerned about the trends that could happen here in the U.S.?”
[More at URL]
----- 15 -----
New Jersey Gay Activists Seek to Redefine Marriage
Family advocates question a poll being used to make the case.
Focus on the Family
from staff reports
8-17-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLNews/A000005295.cfm
Six months ago, same-sex civil unions were legalized in New Jersey, but now homosexual activists are seeking to redefine marriage – and are citing a suspect poll to make their case.
The Zogby poll shows 63 percent of the state's voters would not be upset if lawmakers "upgraded" civil unions to allow same-sex marriages. And 72 percent said such a move would not jeopardize politicians’ re-election bids.
But Len Deo, president of the New Jersey Family Policy Council, said it's important to point out who commissioned the poll: Steven Goldstein, chairman of the gay-activist group Garden State Equality.
[More at URL]
----- 16 -----
Under Pressure, New Jersey School to Present Gay-Activist Play
Focus on the Family
8-16-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLBriefs/A000005284.cfm
Homosexual activists in New Jersey have pressured an Oakhurst, N.J., high school to put on a play called The Laramie Project. The principal had canceled it after parents objected.
The play contains overt homosexual propaganda, and foul and sexual language. Critics say it's not proper for a high school audience.
Len Deo, president of the New Jersey Family Policy Council, said the battle is not over.
“We’re going to look into this," he told Family News in Focus. "We want to at least encourage people to understand the full story.”
----- 17 -----
Study Calls Abortion Pill 'Safe' for Women
Serious side effects and multiple physical risks still very real.
by Jennifer Mesko, associate editor
Focus on the Family
8-16-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLtopstories/A000005288.cfm
In 2000, the Food and Drug Administration approved the abortion drug mifepristone, also known as RU-486. Since then, it has ended the lives of 500,000 U.S. preborn babies and millions more worldwide, Time.com reports.
Now, a study appearing in the Aug. 16 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine reports that the drug is safe for women in the long term.
[...]
"Women who have had abortions have greater risks of miscarriage and infertility than women who have not had abortions," Operation Rescue Senior Policy Adviser Cheryl Sullenger said in a statement. "It is no accident that the study refused to compare these two groups of women, because we know they would have found that abortion hurts women, and that is obviously a conclusion that they did not want to reach."
[More at URL]
----- 18 -----
Is GOP Straying from Conservative Base?
Focus on the Family
8-6-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLBriefs/A000005201.cfm
As the Republican National Committee (RNC) wrapped up its four-day annual summer meeting in Minneapolis over the weekend, some leaders were left wondering if the party is straying from its conservative stance on social and religious issues.
"Evangelical and pro-life Catholics are a critical part of the GOP's electoral coalition," James Bopp Jr., an Indiana member of the RNC, told The Washington Times. "The GOP cannot win in 2008 without their enthusiastic support. It remains to be seen whether the GOP is moving away from them. Whether the GOP is doing so will be determined by who is nominated for president."
[...]
Michigan Republican Chairman Saul Anuzis said the party is not drifting from its social conservatism.
"The religious Right and social conservatives are still a very big part of the party and will be for a long time to come," Anuzis said. "The Democrat policies clearly are antithetical to what religious and social conservatives believe in. The Left that controls the Democratic Party is very much pro-choice on abortion and anti-traditional marriage."
[More at URL]
----- 19 -----
ACLU Wants Illinois Town to Remove Jesus Signs
Focus on the Family
8-3-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLBriefs/A000005186.cfm
As you enter the small town of Alorton, Ill., you'll see two green-and-white billboards that read: "Welcome to The Village of Alorton. Where Jesus is Lord. Randy McCallum Mayor."
As if on cue, the American Civil Liberties Union is objecting. The group says the signs may be unconstitutional, but hasn't determined what action, if any, to take.
Callie Mobley, who was mayor in the 1980s, pushed for the signs.
[...]
Bruce Hausknecht, judicial analyst for Focus on the Family Action, said: "If the Supreme Court hadn't erroneously decided at one point that the First Amendment phrase 'Congress shall make no law...' should now include states, municipalities, even schools, [ed. note: as per the 14th Amendment, which they like to ignore] we would not be in the position where an organization like the ACLU could roam to and fro across the land, seeking those acknowledgements of God they could devour with their well-oiled machine of intimidation and litigation.
"The arrogance displayed here by the ACLU in not caring if the whole town believes the sign's message is illustrative of the Left's intentions of coercing every corner of the country to follow its secularized, anti-Christian worldview."
[More at URL]
----- 20 -----
Florida Marriage Amendment Moves Full Speed Ahead
Residents seek to prevent redefinition of the sacred institution.
by Jennifer Mesko, associate editor
Focus on the Family
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLtopstories/A000005190.cfm
John Stemberger, head of the Orlando-based Florida Family Policy Council, is confident that, starting next fall, traditional marriage will be secure in his state. Twenty-seven states have amended their constitutions to protect traditional marriage.
Stemberger is leading Florida4Marriage.org, which is working to put a marriage amendment on the November 2008 ballot.
"This summer we have received thousands upon thousands of new petitions into our headquarters," he wrote to supporters Tuesday. "While we do not have an exact count, we believe we are well within striking distance of completing the petition goal but not quite there yet."
Petitions can be submitted to Stemberger through Sept. 1. He estimates he has about 650,000; 611,009 signatures are required.
( http://florida4marriage.org/ )
[...]
----- 21 -----
Take Action: Let Your Lawmaker Know You Oppose ENDA
Bill seeks to enshrine sexual orientation in federal law.
Focus on the Family
from staff reports
9-18-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLNews/A000005498.cfm
The Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) is making its way toward a vote in the U.S. House. It would prevent businesses and organizations from taking sexual orientation or gender identity into consideration when hiring, promoting or firing. That could spell trouble for Christian business owners, churches and faith-based groups.
Rep. Roy Blunt, R-Mo., said if ENDA passes, it would create a crisis for Christians.
“Not being able to hire people based on their agreement with your sense of the principles and values of the institution would be devastating,” he said.
[More at URL]
----- 22 -----
Take Action: California Legislature Takes Up Batch of Bad Bills
Dr. Dobson says, 'They have outdone themselves this time.'
by Jennifer Mesko, associate editor
Focus on the Family
9-6-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLtopstories/A000005423.cfm
The California Legislature is at it again — trying to coerce schoolchildren to accept homosexuality and overturn voters’ support for traditional marriage.
Those outrageous measures are among the seven bills that soon could be headed to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's desk. He needs to be persuaded to veto all seven.
"He should get hundreds of thousands of phone calls. We know that makes a difference," Dr. James C. Dobson, founder and chairman of Focus on the Family Action, said on a radio program to be broadcast Friday.
Joining Dr. Dobson on the program are Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council, and Tom Minnery, senior vice president of government and public policy at Focus Action.
Specifically, the bills would: teach public school children age 5 and older to be accepting of homosexuality, cross-dressing and bisexuality; end local oversight of school discrimination policies; legalize same-sex “marriages"; and allow HIV-positive men to donate sperm, with no guarantee that the child conceived in the process would be HIV-free.
One of the bills, AB 43, is another attempt to force same-sex "marriage" onto the residents of California. In 2000, 62 percent of voters passed a constitutional amendment that states, "Only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California."
According to news reports, the American Civil Liberties Union dispatched letters to its activists last week, urging them to pressure Schwarzenegger on this year's batch of pro-gay bills. The governor needs to hear from the pro-family side, as well.
The end of the legislative session is Sept. 14. The governor has until Sept. 30 to sign or veto any bills.
"We've got to get the governor to veto these bills," Minnery said.
TAKE ACTION
Call Gov. Schwarzenegger’s office and urge him to veto all seven bills. You can contact his office at (916) 445-2841. Select "7" to speak with a staffer. Tell them you want the governor to veto all seven of the bills opposed by Focus on the Family Action. If you call after hours, you can leave a message. You do not need to list the bills by number. You may also send a message through the governor's Web site. (Note: The governor's Web site has been up-and-down for the past day or so.)
FOR MORE INFORMATION
View our fact sheet on the seven bills.
To learn more about these bills and other state issues, visit the California Family Council Web site.
----- 23 -----
Maryland Parents Move to Halt Student Indoctrination
Focus on the Family
9-5-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLBriefs/A000005407.cfm
Three pro-family groups have filed for a stay in the Circuit Court for Montgomery County, Md., to block implementation of “a scientifically flawed and politically biased sexuality curriculum” targeted to middle and high school students there.
They are appealing a decision by the state Board of Education to go ahead with the controversial curriculum, which describes homosexuality as “innate” and exposes kids to propaganda. One example from the curriculum: “It took me a while to figure out that I am bisexual. I’ve had great relationships with men and with women.”
[More at URL]
----- 24 -----
MTV Will Air Bisexual Dating Show
Focus on the Family
9-7-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLBriefs/A000005432.cfm
Just weeks after its own survey showed teens place high value on family and faith, MTV is rolling out a bisexual dating show.
A Shot At Love With Tila Tequila, which is scheduled to premiere on the cable network Oct. 9, will feature 16 heterosexual men and 16 lesbians competing for the attention of the show's namesake.
[...]
"Men and women are made in the image of God, and our masculinity and femininity reflect something of his wonder and glory. So it’s no wonder the enemy attacks this area and works to create confusion, brokenness and lust," he said. "It’s sad that MTV is cooperating so readily with our adversary. Especially since they just learned that what makes young men and women happy is time with their families and with God, not sexual brokenness and confusion. " [Ed. note: Biblically speaking, "our adversary" is a reference to Satan, in his old-testiment role of the adversary necessary for free will. So what they're doing here is saying MTV is working for Satan.]
----- 25 -----
Arkansas Gay-Adoption Ban Hits Roadblock
Focus on the Family
9-10-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLBriefs/A000005441.cfm
Arkansas Attorney General Dustin McDaniel has rejected a ballot measure aimed at preventing same-sex couples from adopting foster kids.
John Thomas, vice president of the Arkansas Family Council, which brought the ballot measure, told Family News in Focus it wasn't the content that got it bounced.
“The attorney general’s role is not to pass judgment on the content per se, or the constitutionality of it," Thomas explained. "He's responsible for making sure the language is as clean as it can possibly be so there won’t be confusion.”
In fact, the attorney general said once the housekeeping items are cleaned up, the draft can be resubmitted for the November 2008 ballot.
Mona Passignano, state issues analyst for Focus on the Family Action, said Arkansas is leading the nation in the fight against homosexual adoption.
“I’m sure that many states are going to have to deal with this at some point," she said. "Right now, Arkansas is the only one actively trying to let the people decide.”
----- 26 -----
U.S. House Set to Vote on Special Rights for Gay Employees
Under the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, even churches may be forced to comply.
by Jennifer Mesko, associate editor
Focus on the Family
9-12-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLtopstories/A000005457.cfm
Could a Christian bookstore be forced to hire outspoken homosexual employees? If the Democratic Congress has its way, yes.
Last week, the U.S. House Health, Employment, Labor and Pensions Subcommittee held a hearing on the dangerous Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA). The full House could vote on the bill this month.
ENDA would prohibit employers from making employment decisions — such as hiring, promotions and firing — based on an individual's "actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity."
Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council, said it "could put the rights of homosexuals above employers', including some churches.
"Once this law goes into effect, I don't think you can guarantee that even churches themselves would be exempt."
House Minority Whip Rep. Roy Blunt, R-Mo., joined Perkins on his Sept. 8 radio broadcast.
"This Employment Non-Discrimination Act would do terrible things," Blunt said. While the bill purports to exempt religious groups, "It really doesn't do that. The court has to decide if your purpose is sufficiently religious enough in character. Are you a church? Are you only a church? Do you do other things? Do you have a daycare center?
"It's a terrible policy. We've worked hard over the years to continue to strengthen rather than weaken the ability of faith-based organizations to truly be faith-based in their hiring. And I think that's important, and it's a big part of the debate we need to have on this bill."
Blunt urged pro-family Americans to let their representatives know how they feel.
"Stay informed. Be knowledgeable," he said. "As much as possible, be out there as an independent force. Telephone calls still matter. Don't take anything for granted."
TAKE ACTION
Urge your representative to oppose ENDA. If you are a CitizenLink Daily Update subscriber, click on the "Take Action" button in the e-mail to be automatically logged in to our Action Center. Otherwise, click here.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
View CitizenLink Managing Editor Stuart Shepard's Stoplight video commentary ENDA Liberty.
[More at URL]
----- 27 -----
Exodus Leader to Share Story on Fox Morning Show
Focus on the Family
9-12-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLBriefs/A000005453.cfm
Exodus President Alan Chambers and his wife, Leslie, will share their life stories as part of a panel discussion on change and sexuality Thursday on The Morning Show with Mike & Juliet on the Fox television network.
Chambers will talk about his decision to leave homosexuality more than 14 years ago.
The show's Web site lists local affiliates that carry the program.
Jayson Graves, a therapist in the Exodus network, will join the debate panel, hosted by Juliet Huddy and Mike Jerrick. The program will be broadcast live from the Fox studios in New York.
"While it is encouraging that a major media network is willing to allow former homosexuals to share their personal stories, sometimes the segment turns out to be an ambush attack driven by cynical and biased reporting," said Caleb H. Price, research analyst for Focus on the Family. "I would encourage believers everywhere to lift up Alan and Leslie and Jayson in prayer as they participate in this interview — that their life journeys would be fairly portrayed and that many would be reached with the Gospel message of hope and transformation for those entrapped in homosexual behavior."
[More at URL]
----- 28 -----
New York Judge Affirms Out-of-State Gay 'Marriages'
Tosses out challenge to state comptroller's decision.
Focus on the Family
from staff reports
9-14-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLNews/A000005474.cfm
A New York judge has dismissed a challenge to a decision by the state comptroller to include gay couples in the retirement system who were legally "married" elsewhere.
In his ruling, Judge Thomas McNamara wrote “the policy of the Comptroller to recognize same-sex Canadian marriages is legal and not contrary to the law.”
Brian Raum, an attorney for the Alliance Defense Fund (ADF), said the decision opens Pandora’s box.
“What they’re saying, basically, is the law of other countries will now apply in New York, circumventing the Legislature, circumventing the legislative process,” he told Family News in Focus.
He added that ADF will appeal the ruling.
[More at URL]
And since the theoconservative / fundamentalist movement is openly adopting fascist memetics, let's go now over to Bill O'Reilly, who calls warrents, legal defense / trials, and not torturing prisoners "far-left" in condemning the political campaign of John Edwards. I'm linking to Glenn Greenwald's column on this rather than the original transcript mostly because Mr. Greenwald does the grepping through the Federalist Papers for me, so I don't have to. Apparently, the American Founding Fathers were a bunch of leftist America-haters who will destroy America. Damn you, Bill O'Reilly, for destroying Godwin's Law. God damn you to hell. Greenwald links to the Fox News transcript;
The Bush Administraiton launches its "National Abstinence Campaign," which is "no sex until marriage;" queers outside Massacusetts are presumably supposed to have no sex until evar, as one of the commenters points out;
NYC transgender legal defense fund comes to the aid of a natal woman who was thrown out of a women's restroom - and the entire restaurant - for being too butch;
EyeOn08 reports on rumours that the fundamentalist leadership is "warming" to Mitt Romney;
Faith and Freedom Network, supporters of holocaust revisionism as above, endorse James Dobson's absolute rejection of any support for the candidacy of Rudolph Guliani, even if he wins the GOP nomination;
Faith and Freedom Network, supporters of holocaust revisionism as above, are hosting a "Change Your Culture" Youth Leadership Retreat. Said retreat includes Dino Rossi as a featured speaker, along with creationist Casey Luskin of the Discovery Institute;
Faith and Freedom Network shuts down their open replies policy to blog posts, noting that there were too many comments from people who opposed Faith and Freedom Network policies, quoting one reader stating that opponents' "biblical understanding is either twisted or off base," but adding that they'll continue to allow responses "that have substance" to be posted;
FFN says same-sex divorce shouldn't be recognised either, as it implies recognition of same-sex marriage;
Focus on the Family rails against Iowa court decision striking down their local anti-marriage law, howls with indignation that a gay couple managed to get a marriage license through the system before the ruling could be stayed pending appeal, calls for anti-marriage Constitutional amendment;
Separate FotF story railing against Iowa court ruling;
FotF reports on fundamentalist protests trying to prevent a women's health clinic that will provide abortion services from opening; they call it a "stealth" clinic. The best, or worst, part is that what tipped them off? Extra security cameras and bulletproof glass. An anti-abortion construction worker tipped off the anti-abortion activists, who are used to looking for this kind of extra security as normal and necessary. What does this say about them, I ask;
Vermont panel to consider same-sex marriage rights; anti-marriage activists plan to boycott the panel, claiming the panel has already made up its mind;
Focus on the Family quotes Senator Sam Brownback as saying that recognition of same-sex couples caused heterosexual couples to have 80% of childbirths out of wedlock;
FotF condemns New Jersey poll showing a lack of opposition to same-sex civil marriage;
FotF and Focus on the Family's New Jersey state proxy, the New Jersey Family Policy Council - they install these state by state, and have just started one up here - condemn a high school production of The Laramie Project as "homosexual propaganda [with] foul and sexual language";
FotF condemns study in New England Journal of Medicine finding that RU-486, the chemical abortion drug, is safe when used according to FDA guidelines;
Focus on the Family quotes various Republican National Committee members saying that the GOP can't win without the fundamentalists and that the Democrats are "antithetical" to the fundamentalist movement for being "pro-choice" and "anti-traditional marriage";
Illinois city posts billboards at the roads into town declaring, "Welcome to The Village of Alorton. Where Jesus is Lord. Randy McCallum Mayor." Focus on the Family condemns ACLU for even considering action, pretending that the 14th Amendment doesn't exist and that the first amendment still only applies to Congress;
Focus on the Family promotes - as paid ad integrated seamlessly into their news mail (no difference at all, but a note on the website) - the Florida anti-marriage state constitutional amendment;
Focus on the Family ACTION ITEM against ENDA, saying that Christians must be able to fire people for being queer;
Focus on the Family and its California proxy the California Family Policy Council ACTION ITEM against several California bills; one to allow marriage rights for queer couples, one to prohibit anti-gay teaching in public schools, and so on;
FotF condemns Maryland sex-ed programme that is GBLT-inclusive, calling it "student indoctrination";
FotF says MTV is working with Satan in producing a bisexual dating game show;
FotF: Arkansas will have anti-GBLT-adoption initiative in 2008; Focus on the Family's local proxy (Arkansas Family Policy Council) is behind it;
Focus on the Family second ACTION ITEM against ENDA;
FOX's morning show to give airtime to Exodus International (the premere "ex-gay" quakery source);
Focus on the Family condemns New York State comptroller's decision to include same-sex married couples in the state retirement system; the Alliance Defense Fund sued to overturn the state decision, lost this round, and will appeal.
----- 1 -----
Anti-gay church group is coming to Lynnwood
Conference next weekend features anti-gay activist
Everett Herald
By Jackson Holtz, Herald Writer
Saturday, October 13, 2007
http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20071013/NEWS01/710130053
LYNNWOOD -- An anti-gay religious group is planning a three-day conference beginning Friday at the Lynnwood Convention Center.
Watchmen on the Walls expects as many as 700 people to attend the prayer gathering, including religious leaders and an anti-gay activist who claims the Holocaust was perpetrated by gays.
[...]
"Our understanding is that they're law-abiding. They have a right of free speech just like any other group," said Mike Echelbarger, the board's chairman.
"If we were talking about the (Ku Klux Klan) we'd have a totally different take on it. Of course we wouldn't rent to the KKK," he said.
[...]
Among those expected to speak in Lynnwood is Scott Lively, a lawyer from California. He is a "radical anti-gay activist who has all sorts of beliefs about homosexuality and fascism," said Michelle Deutchman, western states counsel for the Anti-Defamation League.
Lively has published a book advancing the theory that gays were responsible for the Nazi holocaust during World War II. Millions of people, including gays, Jews, the mentally retarded and others perished in Nazi concentration camps.
[...]
Also listed as a speaker for the Lynnwood gathering is former Seattle Seahawk Ken Hutcherson. He's now a pastor at the Antioch Bible Church in Kirkland and a vocal opponent to gay marriage.
[...]
The Watchmen group is composed of some of the state's 200,000 Russian speaking immigrants, said Pastor Joe Fuiten of Bothell's Cedar Park Church. He plans to be a featured speaker at the Lynnwood event.
Fuiten, known statewide for rallying the religious right on moral issues, bristled at the Southern Poverty Law Center's characterization of the Watchmen.
"That southern law group, they're a bunch of whackos," Fuiten said. "They're the hate group. That's a gay front, is what that is."
[More at URL]
----- 2 -----
John Edwards' dark leftist America
Glenn Greenwald
Salon
Friday October 12, 2007 05:25 EST
http://www.salon.com/opinion/greenwald/2007/10/12/edwards/index.html
Bill O'Reilly devoted the beginning of his show last night to warning Americans about the dangerous radicalism of John Edwards, proclaiming that "John Edwards has no chance to become president because he's simply too far-left for most Americans." After highlighting all the scary, fringe positions Edwards holds, O'Reilly summarized what the Far-Left America would look like once John Edwards got done with it:
[W]ould you support President John Edwards? Remember, no coerced interrogation, civilian lawyers in courts for captured overseas terrorists, no branding the Iranian guards terrorists, and no phone surveillance without a specific warrant.
Who could even fathom an America plagued by habeas corpus, search warrants, and a military that fails to beat, freeze and mock-execute its detainees? And nothing is more sacred to core American values than branding other countries' armies as "Terrorists" ("The [Revolutionary] Guard is the SS of Iran").
O'Reilly has aptly highlighted here the new ideological divide in our political culture -- one is now on the "Left," usually the "Far Left," if one supports what were previously the defining attributes of basic American liberties, while one is "Serious" and "Responsible" and "Centrist/Right" only if one is too sophisticated and "tough" to actually think that such effete and abstract things matter. Under the cover of darkness, late at night, John Edwards must be reading filthy leftist tracts like this:
[More at URL]
----- 3 -----
Bush Admin Launches National Abstinence Campaign
youtube.com
Online as of 10 October 2007
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sPnI9XAOzvE
[Video]
[...]
moonwatcher13 (15 hours ago)
What are gay people supposed to do? Wait forever?
----- 4 -----
Ejection of a Woman From a Women’s Room Prompts Lawsuit
By Jennifer Lee
October 9, 2007, 2:43 pm
The New York Times
http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/10/09/ejection-of-a-woman-from-a-womens-room-prompts-lawsuit/index.html
City Room has heard of women being thrown out of men’s bathrooms, men who identify as women being thrown out of women’s bathrooms and, of course, men getting into trouble in men’s rooms. But we had not heard of a woman being thrown out of a women’s room — by a worker who didn’t believe she was really a woman — until now.
The woman, Khadijah Farmer, a 28-year-old who lives in Hell’s Kitchen, says she was at the Caliente Cab restaurant in the West Village after the Gay Pride Parade on June 24, when she left the table to go to the women’s room. While she was in there, the male bouncer burst into the bathroom.
[...]
Ms. Farmer, who is lesbian, describes herself as “not the most feminine,” but she has been a woman her entire life. Her New York State non-driver photo identification card clearly lists her sex as female.
[...]
Today, on Ms. Farmer’s behalf, the Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund filed a lawsuit in State Supreme Court in Manhattan against Caliente Cab, asserting that she was the victim of gender discrimination.
[More at URL]
----- 5 -----
Evangelical leaders moving towards Romney? Not so much
EyeOn08.com
10 October 2007
http://www.eyeon08.com/2007/10/11/evangelical-leaders-moving-towards-romney-not-so-much/
This morning, I got an email from a family group leader. He was incredulous. He said:
Our "leaders" testify to the sincere conversion of a guy who today believes the Boy Scouts are wrong to prohibit homosexual Scoutmasters…
That was in response to Ralph Z Hallow’s article about Romney in today’s Washington Times:
Two social conservatives leaders — in surprise moves yesterday — criticized fellow evangelical and Republican presidential hopeful Mike Huckabee, while praising another party hopeful, Mitt Romney, a Mormon.
Still, Family Research Council President Tony Perkins and American Values President Gary Bauer hope the former Massachusetts governor will passionately express his pro-life views at the Values Voter Summit Oct. 19 and 20 at the Washington Hilton.
[More at URL]
----- 6 -----
No compromise for value voters
Faith and Freedom Network
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
http://www.faithandfreedom.us/weblog/2007/10/no-compromise-for-value-voters.html
There has been a growing concern regarding the upcoming 2008 presidential election and what option Christians or "values voters" may have in the general election for U.S. President and other important offices.
[...]
We are not the only people who are concerned about this matter.
James Dobson has best articulated these concerns and some actions that have been taken in this regard in an op-ed to The New York Times. Faith & Freedom supports this position.
[More at URL]
----- 7 -----
Change Your Culture
Youth Leadership Retreat
Faith and Freedom Network
Online a of 15 October 2007
http://www.faithandfreedom.us/index.php
November 16-18, 2007
Cascade Camp & Conference Center
Yelm, Washington
Speakers:
Dino Rossi, former State Senator
Dan Browne, U.S. Olympian
Casey Luskin, Discovery Institute
Colleen McGinness, Hillsdale College
Contact Jon Russell for more information
----- 8 -----
Open Posts on Faith & Freedom Website
Faith and Freedom Network
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
http://www.faithandfreedom.us/weblog/2007/10/open-posts-on-faith-freedom-website.html
I want to personally thank all of you who have responded through both the poll and personal comments sent to me regarding allow open posting on our website.
I want to share a sampling of the kinds of comments we have received and what we have decided going forward.
All the comments we received were supportive of this ministry, except one received this past weekend. I will share that with you in a moment.
People who care about this ministry were generally in favor of discontinuing open posting, although a few felt we should continue.
[...]
This person goes on at length to say that the reason they favor not having open posting is because a very few people dominate the negative side. They say, "These folks seem to have so much time on their hands that they cannot fathom keeping up with them to post and defend my positions. (By the way, I am in complete support of F&F and the positions you are taking on the issues.)"
"In my opinion often times their biblical understanding is either twisted
or off base and they verbally beat up on anybody who disagrees with them."
[...]
We will post hose [sic] comments that have substance, are directly related to the topic and are short and to the point.
Your comments that we post will be posted exactly as we receive them from you. We ask only that you identify the town from which you are responding.
[More at URL]
----- 9 -----
When divorce may mean "marriage"
Faith and Freedom Network
Monday, October 15, 2007
http://www.faithandfreedom.us/weblog/2007/10/when-divorce-may-mean-marriage.html
In 2004, Cassandra Ormiston and Margaret Chambers traveled from their home in Rhode Island, MA, where gay marriage is legal, to be "married."
Last year, they filed for divorce in Rhode Island, where they live.
The Associated Press and local Rhode Island news outlets have been covering the case because of its possible effect on marriage itself.
I have linked the latest article from The Providence Journal from yesterday. It will give you background if you care to read it.
Here is the concern.
The argument being made by counsel for Ormiston is that Rhode Island, which does not allow gay marriage, should recognize the "marriage" or at least grant a "divorce."
Many who support traditional marriage feel they are slowly trying to change public policy to bring about same-sex marriage.
[More at URL]
----- 10 -----
A Same-Sex 'Wedding' in the Heartland of America
Iowa's higher courts will decide if they can continue.
by Jennifer Mesko, associate editor
Focus on the Family
8-31-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLNews/A000005390.cfm
With the help of two elitist judges, two men got "married" in Polk County, Iowa, this morning.
On Thursday, Judge Robert Hanson struck down the state's 1998 Defense of Marriage Act. About two dozen homosexual couples obtained marriage licenses before Hanson issued a stay on his ruling around noon today. In the meantime, Judge Scott Rosenburg agreed to sign an "emergency" waiver allowing one of the couples to marry today rather than wait three days, as required by law.
"There seems to be no end to the judicial arrogance being displayed in Iowa this week," said Bruce Hausknecht, judicial analyst for Focus on the Family Action. "Now it appears that judges can not only write the marriage laws, but they can waive any 'inconvenient' laws otherwise required — one-stop shopping for radical social change."
[more at URL]
----- 11 -----
Renegade Judge Strikes Down Iowa Defense of Marriage Act
Dr. Dobson calls it a 'purely political ruling.'
by Jennifer Mesko, associate editor
Focus on the Family
8-30-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLtopstories/A000005372.cfm
County Judge Robert Hanson decided Thursday that he will make the laws for Iowa. He struck down the state's 1998 Defense of Marriage Act as unconstitutional and ordered Polk County to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples.
Roger J. Kuhle, an assistant county attorney, argued the issue is not for a judge to decide. The county, home to state capital Des Moines, is expected to appeal the ruling to the Iowa Supreme Court.
Dr. James C. Dobson, founder and chairman of Focus on the Family Action, called it another example of a judge legislating from the bench.
[...]
"Sadly, little consideration seems to be given to the next generation of children," said Jenny Tyree, associate marriage analyst for Focus Action. "One judicial decision could change the definition of marriage for every Iowan and deprive more children of either a mother or a father."
[More at URL]
----- 12 -----
Life Advocates Fight Stealth Illinois Abortion Clinic
Around-the-clock protest and prayer aim to keep Planned Parenthood out; lawsuit possible.
by Jennifer Mesko, associate editor
Focus on the Family
8-27-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLtopstories/A000005351.cfm
Planned Parenthood tried to sneak its largest clinic in the country into Aurora, Ill., but residents are having none of it.
Last month, neighbors of the "Gemini Health Clinic" were shocked to learn the $7.5 million facility will actually be used for abortions. On Saturday, more than 1,200 pro-lifers gathered near the building to express their outrage. Some marched with signs, while others prayed or handed out leaflets in the surrounding neighborhoods.
A 24-hour, 40-day prayer vigil began Aug. 9 and organizers say it will continue until the scheduled opening Sept. 18.
Ann Scheidler, executive director of the Pro-Life Action League, said court is next.
[...]
In July, a construction worker became suspicious of the bulletproof glass, excess cameras and the dozen-plus recovery rooms.
Pro-life Aurora Alderman Richard Irvin isn't buying it. "All the while, they are building it to spec, for this type of clinic," he said. "Of course, they knew what this was going to be for."
[Editor's note: This is how they figured out it was a clinic that would provide abortion services: the bulletproof glass and security measures. Note that Mr. Irvin takes this kind of extra security as normal. What does this say about the anti-abortion-rights activists?]
[More at URL]
----- 13 -----
Vermont Panel Considers Marriage Redefinition
A Vermont legislative commission tasked with looking into redefining marriage in the state to include homosexuals met for the first time on Thursday.
Focus on the Family
8-24-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLBriefs/A000005341.cfm
A Vermont legislative commission tasked with looking into redefining marriage in the state to include homosexuals met for the first time on Thursday.
The Rutland Herald reported that the meeting largely dealt with preliminary issues, such as the format of public hearings.
Tom Little, the Republican who is chairing the euphemistically named Commission on Family Recognition and Protection, oversaw the writing of the state's civil-union law seven years ago.
Meanwhile, same-sex marriage opponents announced at the Statehouse that they will be boycotting the commission's future public hearings because they believe the members have already decided to endorse gay marriage.
[More at URL]
----- 14 -----
Washington Briefing Will Equip Values Voters
Early registration ends Sept. 15.
Focus on the Family
from staff reports
8-24-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLtopstories/A000005345.cfm
Values voters from across America will gather in the nation's capital for the Washington Briefing: A Call to Action on Oct. 19-21.
People who attend will hear from presidential hopefuls, national leaders and authors on a wide range of topics of interest to conservatives.
RoseMarie Briggs from Maryland went to last year's event and called it "inspiring."
"It is so important for people across the country to realize they are not alone as they read the headlines and see what’s happening in our schools," she told Family News in Focus. "The moral decline in our country is vivid.”
She said the topic that opened her eyes last year was Sen. Sam Brownback’s speech that detailed how Norway’s recognition of same-sex marriage led to 80 percent of children being born out of wedlock in some parts of the country.
“I was aware it was bad, but I didn’t realize it was that bad," she said. "How can anyone turn a blind eye to the trends that are happening in Europe and not be concerned about the trends that could happen here in the U.S.?”
[More at URL]
----- 15 -----
New Jersey Gay Activists Seek to Redefine Marriage
Family advocates question a poll being used to make the case.
Focus on the Family
from staff reports
8-17-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLNews/A000005295.cfm
Six months ago, same-sex civil unions were legalized in New Jersey, but now homosexual activists are seeking to redefine marriage – and are citing a suspect poll to make their case.
The Zogby poll shows 63 percent of the state's voters would not be upset if lawmakers "upgraded" civil unions to allow same-sex marriages. And 72 percent said such a move would not jeopardize politicians’ re-election bids.
But Len Deo, president of the New Jersey Family Policy Council, said it's important to point out who commissioned the poll: Steven Goldstein, chairman of the gay-activist group Garden State Equality.
[More at URL]
----- 16 -----
Under Pressure, New Jersey School to Present Gay-Activist Play
Focus on the Family
8-16-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLBriefs/A000005284.cfm
Homosexual activists in New Jersey have pressured an Oakhurst, N.J., high school to put on a play called The Laramie Project. The principal had canceled it after parents objected.
The play contains overt homosexual propaganda, and foul and sexual language. Critics say it's not proper for a high school audience.
Len Deo, president of the New Jersey Family Policy Council, said the battle is not over.
“We’re going to look into this," he told Family News in Focus. "We want to at least encourage people to understand the full story.”
----- 17 -----
Study Calls Abortion Pill 'Safe' for Women
Serious side effects and multiple physical risks still very real.
by Jennifer Mesko, associate editor
Focus on the Family
8-16-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLtopstories/A000005288.cfm
In 2000, the Food and Drug Administration approved the abortion drug mifepristone, also known as RU-486. Since then, it has ended the lives of 500,000 U.S. preborn babies and millions more worldwide, Time.com reports.
Now, a study appearing in the Aug. 16 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine reports that the drug is safe for women in the long term.
[...]
"Women who have had abortions have greater risks of miscarriage and infertility than women who have not had abortions," Operation Rescue Senior Policy Adviser Cheryl Sullenger said in a statement. "It is no accident that the study refused to compare these two groups of women, because we know they would have found that abortion hurts women, and that is obviously a conclusion that they did not want to reach."
[More at URL]
----- 18 -----
Is GOP Straying from Conservative Base?
Focus on the Family
8-6-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLBriefs/A000005201.cfm
As the Republican National Committee (RNC) wrapped up its four-day annual summer meeting in Minneapolis over the weekend, some leaders were left wondering if the party is straying from its conservative stance on social and religious issues.
"Evangelical and pro-life Catholics are a critical part of the GOP's electoral coalition," James Bopp Jr., an Indiana member of the RNC, told The Washington Times. "The GOP cannot win in 2008 without their enthusiastic support. It remains to be seen whether the GOP is moving away from them. Whether the GOP is doing so will be determined by who is nominated for president."
[...]
Michigan Republican Chairman Saul Anuzis said the party is not drifting from its social conservatism.
"The religious Right and social conservatives are still a very big part of the party and will be for a long time to come," Anuzis said. "The Democrat policies clearly are antithetical to what religious and social conservatives believe in. The Left that controls the Democratic Party is very much pro-choice on abortion and anti-traditional marriage."
[More at URL]
----- 19 -----
ACLU Wants Illinois Town to Remove Jesus Signs
Focus on the Family
8-3-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLBriefs/A000005186.cfm
As you enter the small town of Alorton, Ill., you'll see two green-and-white billboards that read: "Welcome to The Village of Alorton. Where Jesus is Lord. Randy McCallum Mayor."
As if on cue, the American Civil Liberties Union is objecting. The group says the signs may be unconstitutional, but hasn't determined what action, if any, to take.
Callie Mobley, who was mayor in the 1980s, pushed for the signs.
[...]
Bruce Hausknecht, judicial analyst for Focus on the Family Action, said: "If the Supreme Court hadn't erroneously decided at one point that the First Amendment phrase 'Congress shall make no law...' should now include states, municipalities, even schools, [ed. note: as per the 14th Amendment, which they like to ignore] we would not be in the position where an organization like the ACLU could roam to and fro across the land, seeking those acknowledgements of God they could devour with their well-oiled machine of intimidation and litigation.
"The arrogance displayed here by the ACLU in not caring if the whole town believes the sign's message is illustrative of the Left's intentions of coercing every corner of the country to follow its secularized, anti-Christian worldview."
[More at URL]
----- 20 -----
Florida Marriage Amendment Moves Full Speed Ahead
Residents seek to prevent redefinition of the sacred institution.
by Jennifer Mesko, associate editor
Focus on the Family
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLtopstories/A000005190.cfm
John Stemberger, head of the Orlando-based Florida Family Policy Council, is confident that, starting next fall, traditional marriage will be secure in his state. Twenty-seven states have amended their constitutions to protect traditional marriage.
Stemberger is leading Florida4Marriage.org, which is working to put a marriage amendment on the November 2008 ballot.
"This summer we have received thousands upon thousands of new petitions into our headquarters," he wrote to supporters Tuesday. "While we do not have an exact count, we believe we are well within striking distance of completing the petition goal but not quite there yet."
Petitions can be submitted to Stemberger through Sept. 1. He estimates he has about 650,000; 611,009 signatures are required.
( http://florida4marriage.org/ )
[...]
----- 21 -----
Take Action: Let Your Lawmaker Know You Oppose ENDA
Bill seeks to enshrine sexual orientation in federal law.
Focus on the Family
from staff reports
9-18-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLNews/A000005498.cfm
The Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) is making its way toward a vote in the U.S. House. It would prevent businesses and organizations from taking sexual orientation or gender identity into consideration when hiring, promoting or firing. That could spell trouble for Christian business owners, churches and faith-based groups.
Rep. Roy Blunt, R-Mo., said if ENDA passes, it would create a crisis for Christians.
“Not being able to hire people based on their agreement with your sense of the principles and values of the institution would be devastating,” he said.
[More at URL]
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Take Action: California Legislature Takes Up Batch of Bad Bills
Dr. Dobson says, 'They have outdone themselves this time.'
by Jennifer Mesko, associate editor
Focus on the Family
9-6-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLtopstories/A000005423.cfm
The California Legislature is at it again — trying to coerce schoolchildren to accept homosexuality and overturn voters’ support for traditional marriage.
Those outrageous measures are among the seven bills that soon could be headed to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's desk. He needs to be persuaded to veto all seven.
"He should get hundreds of thousands of phone calls. We know that makes a difference," Dr. James C. Dobson, founder and chairman of Focus on the Family Action, said on a radio program to be broadcast Friday.
Joining Dr. Dobson on the program are Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council, and Tom Minnery, senior vice president of government and public policy at Focus Action.
Specifically, the bills would: teach public school children age 5 and older to be accepting of homosexuality, cross-dressing and bisexuality; end local oversight of school discrimination policies; legalize same-sex “marriages"; and allow HIV-positive men to donate sperm, with no guarantee that the child conceived in the process would be HIV-free.
One of the bills, AB 43, is another attempt to force same-sex "marriage" onto the residents of California. In 2000, 62 percent of voters passed a constitutional amendment that states, "Only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California."
According to news reports, the American Civil Liberties Union dispatched letters to its activists last week, urging them to pressure Schwarzenegger on this year's batch of pro-gay bills. The governor needs to hear from the pro-family side, as well.
The end of the legislative session is Sept. 14. The governor has until Sept. 30 to sign or veto any bills.
"We've got to get the governor to veto these bills," Minnery said.
TAKE ACTION
Call Gov. Schwarzenegger’s office and urge him to veto all seven bills. You can contact his office at (916) 445-2841. Select "7" to speak with a staffer. Tell them you want the governor to veto all seven of the bills opposed by Focus on the Family Action. If you call after hours, you can leave a message. You do not need to list the bills by number. You may also send a message through the governor's Web site. (Note: The governor's Web site has been up-and-down for the past day or so.)
FOR MORE INFORMATION
View our fact sheet on the seven bills.
To learn more about these bills and other state issues, visit the California Family Council Web site.
----- 23 -----
Maryland Parents Move to Halt Student Indoctrination
Focus on the Family
9-5-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLBriefs/A000005407.cfm
Three pro-family groups have filed for a stay in the Circuit Court for Montgomery County, Md., to block implementation of “a scientifically flawed and politically biased sexuality curriculum” targeted to middle and high school students there.
They are appealing a decision by the state Board of Education to go ahead with the controversial curriculum, which describes homosexuality as “innate” and exposes kids to propaganda. One example from the curriculum: “It took me a while to figure out that I am bisexual. I’ve had great relationships with men and with women.”
[More at URL]
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MTV Will Air Bisexual Dating Show
Focus on the Family
9-7-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLBriefs/A000005432.cfm
Just weeks after its own survey showed teens place high value on family and faith, MTV is rolling out a bisexual dating show.
A Shot At Love With Tila Tequila, which is scheduled to premiere on the cable network Oct. 9, will feature 16 heterosexual men and 16 lesbians competing for the attention of the show's namesake.
[...]
"Men and women are made in the image of God, and our masculinity and femininity reflect something of his wonder and glory. So it’s no wonder the enemy attacks this area and works to create confusion, brokenness and lust," he said. "It’s sad that MTV is cooperating so readily with our adversary. Especially since they just learned that what makes young men and women happy is time with their families and with God, not sexual brokenness and confusion. " [Ed. note: Biblically speaking, "our adversary" is a reference to Satan, in his old-testiment role of the adversary necessary for free will. So what they're doing here is saying MTV is working for Satan.]
----- 25 -----
Arkansas Gay-Adoption Ban Hits Roadblock
Focus on the Family
9-10-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLBriefs/A000005441.cfm
Arkansas Attorney General Dustin McDaniel has rejected a ballot measure aimed at preventing same-sex couples from adopting foster kids.
John Thomas, vice president of the Arkansas Family Council, which brought the ballot measure, told Family News in Focus it wasn't the content that got it bounced.
“The attorney general’s role is not to pass judgment on the content per se, or the constitutionality of it," Thomas explained. "He's responsible for making sure the language is as clean as it can possibly be so there won’t be confusion.”
In fact, the attorney general said once the housekeeping items are cleaned up, the draft can be resubmitted for the November 2008 ballot.
Mona Passignano, state issues analyst for Focus on the Family Action, said Arkansas is leading the nation in the fight against homosexual adoption.
“I’m sure that many states are going to have to deal with this at some point," she said. "Right now, Arkansas is the only one actively trying to let the people decide.”
----- 26 -----
U.S. House Set to Vote on Special Rights for Gay Employees
Under the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, even churches may be forced to comply.
by Jennifer Mesko, associate editor
Focus on the Family
9-12-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLtopstories/A000005457.cfm
Could a Christian bookstore be forced to hire outspoken homosexual employees? If the Democratic Congress has its way, yes.
Last week, the U.S. House Health, Employment, Labor and Pensions Subcommittee held a hearing on the dangerous Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA). The full House could vote on the bill this month.
ENDA would prohibit employers from making employment decisions — such as hiring, promotions and firing — based on an individual's "actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity."
Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council, said it "could put the rights of homosexuals above employers', including some churches.
"Once this law goes into effect, I don't think you can guarantee that even churches themselves would be exempt."
House Minority Whip Rep. Roy Blunt, R-Mo., joined Perkins on his Sept. 8 radio broadcast.
"This Employment Non-Discrimination Act would do terrible things," Blunt said. While the bill purports to exempt religious groups, "It really doesn't do that. The court has to decide if your purpose is sufficiently religious enough in character. Are you a church? Are you only a church? Do you do other things? Do you have a daycare center?
"It's a terrible policy. We've worked hard over the years to continue to strengthen rather than weaken the ability of faith-based organizations to truly be faith-based in their hiring. And I think that's important, and it's a big part of the debate we need to have on this bill."
Blunt urged pro-family Americans to let their representatives know how they feel.
"Stay informed. Be knowledgeable," he said. "As much as possible, be out there as an independent force. Telephone calls still matter. Don't take anything for granted."
TAKE ACTION
Urge your representative to oppose ENDA. If you are a CitizenLink Daily Update subscriber, click on the "Take Action" button in the e-mail to be automatically logged in to our Action Center. Otherwise, click here.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
View CitizenLink Managing Editor Stuart Shepard's Stoplight video commentary ENDA Liberty.
[More at URL]
----- 27 -----
Exodus Leader to Share Story on Fox Morning Show
Focus on the Family
9-12-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLBriefs/A000005453.cfm
Exodus President Alan Chambers and his wife, Leslie, will share their life stories as part of a panel discussion on change and sexuality Thursday on The Morning Show with Mike & Juliet on the Fox television network.
Chambers will talk about his decision to leave homosexuality more than 14 years ago.
The show's Web site lists local affiliates that carry the program.
Jayson Graves, a therapist in the Exodus network, will join the debate panel, hosted by Juliet Huddy and Mike Jerrick. The program will be broadcast live from the Fox studios in New York.
"While it is encouraging that a major media network is willing to allow former homosexuals to share their personal stories, sometimes the segment turns out to be an ambush attack driven by cynical and biased reporting," said Caleb H. Price, research analyst for Focus on the Family. "I would encourage believers everywhere to lift up Alan and Leslie and Jayson in prayer as they participate in this interview — that their life journeys would be fairly portrayed and that many would be reached with the Gospel message of hope and transformation for those entrapped in homosexual behavior."
[More at URL]
----- 28 -----
New York Judge Affirms Out-of-State Gay 'Marriages'
Tosses out challenge to state comptroller's decision.
Focus on the Family
from staff reports
9-14-2007
http://www.citizenlink.org/CLNews/A000005474.cfm
A New York judge has dismissed a challenge to a decision by the state comptroller to include gay couples in the retirement system who were legally "married" elsewhere.
In his ruling, Judge Thomas McNamara wrote “the policy of the Comptroller to recognize same-sex Canadian marriages is legal and not contrary to the law.”
Brian Raum, an attorney for the Alliance Defense Fund (ADF), said the decision opens Pandora’s box.
“What they’re saying, basically, is the law of other countries will now apply in New York, circumventing the Legislature, circumventing the legislative process,” he told Family News in Focus.
He added that ADF will appeal the ruling.
[More at URL]
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no subject
Date: 2007-10-16 01:52 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2007-10-16 01:59 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2007-10-16 02:46 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2007-10-16 02:52 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2007-10-16 04:14 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2007-10-16 04:35 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2007-10-16 04:39 am (UTC)zomg
Date: 2007-10-16 05:00 am (UTC)My living room's recognition of horny same-sex guinea pigs humping each other led to 80 percent of rats eating dried corn in some parts of the room.
Also, ACLU should challenge that village's JESUS IS LARD billboards by inquiring about when and how he was elected to the position of Village Lord.
no subject
Date: 2007-10-16 06:49 am (UTC)Anyway, unless otherwise advised, I shall assuredly respond by flipping the bird as I round that corner off I-5 -- are date(s) of this nefarious enterprise known? If it's round the full moon, well, then those horrid snools are just asking for it.
no subject
Date: 2007-10-16 11:05 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2007-10-16 08:38 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2007-11-02 07:36 am (UTC)