I was sent an article by a PowerBlog reader. (Thanks Vincent) The article outlines the American death toll. Not in Iraq but right here in the U.S. The interesting thing is it looks at murders committed by illegal aliens.
I don't have much confidence in the numbers cited. It's hard to track something that isn't really trackable. The claim is 12 Americans are killed daily by illegal aliens. Yet there are no federal stats. The numbers come from prisons and research.
If the numbers are true, more Americans are attacked and killed here then any other place in the world. That's a big "IF". I don't personally believe most people come here to kill and terrorize. Yet at the same time, when a person comes to this county under the cover of darkness, is banished to the shadows to exist by working for substandard wages and lives in hiding, desperation can drive people to violence and crime.
Other numbers in the article cite 20% of accidents involve a driver that does not have a license. Well duh! There is probably a good reason they don't have a license.
36% of illegals in prison have been arrested at least 5 times before. That astounds me. We arrest and re-arrest these people without deporting them.
I welcome all people who come here legally. People who are willing to work hard and pursue the American dream are needed in this country. However, if you come here illegally, you enter this country as a criminal. I don't care how nobel your intentions. Criminals commit crimes. So it should come as no surprise that a person who breaks one law could progress to breaking other laws or for some even murder.
GOP digs in, won't concede House
State House Republicans are refusing to concede defeat in a battle over who will control the chamber for the next two years, despite Democratic claims of victory thanks to a razor-thin win in a Chester County race. Read More
Slots on the Rocks
Gov. Ed Rendell yesterday signed legislation to let Pennsylvania's slots parlors serve unlimited free alcoholic drinks to gamblers - a measure that allows an exception to the state's current limit of one free drink per person. Read More
Lite Posting
Some of you emailed me asking why I did not post anything yesterday. Thanks for your concern. I'm fine but really BUSY!!!
Yesterday we had the AIR Awards. No we didn't win, but then again John & Stephanie had only been on the air for about a month by the deadline. Congrats to the Honzman who did win.
Also last night we hosted Point of Grace of a sold out show. It was great to meet so many nice people. So I had to back off of posting for a bit, but I am back at it.
That's the scoop.
Yesterday we had the AIR Awards. No we didn't win, but then again John & Stephanie had only been on the air for about a month by the deadline. Congrats to the Honzman who did win.
Also last night we hosted Point of Grace of a sold out show. It was great to meet so many nice people. So I had to back off of posting for a bit, but I am back at it.
That's the scoop.
“THEOLOGIAN” SAYS CHRISTIANS MUST DITCH SOME BELIEFS
Lipscomb professor Lee Camp said “The most basic Christian commitment … is that we say we believe in the Lordship of Jesus. But, if we claim that, how can a Muslim or Jew trust us, if we say Jesus is the Lord of all Lords.” No word if he plans to get rid of the idea of God altogether so we can live in peace with atheists.
The Tennessean
The Tennessean
RICK WARREN DEFENDS DECISION TO HAVE OBAMA SPEAK AT CHURCH
Well, sort of. The church issued a statement. From the story: Saddleback responded with a statement acknowledging "strong opposition" to Obama's participation. The church said participants were invited because of their knowledge of HIV/AIDS and that Warren, author of "The Purpose Driven Life," opposes Obama's position on abortion and other issues (AP). Regardless, many see Warren as giving credibility to a man who doesn’t really believe the Bible, though he often pretends to. From Obama’s book: I thought of Sasha asking me once what happened when we die—"I don't want to die, Daddy," she had added matter-of-factly—and I had hugged her and said, "You've got a long, long way before you have to worry about that," which had seemed to satisfy her. I wondered whether I should have told her the truth, that I wasn't sure what happens when we die, any more than I was sure of where the soul resides or what existed before the Big Bang (Time). Salem’s Kevin McCullough has been following the story (Townhall).
TERRORISTS IN IRAQ USING IRANIAN WEAPONS
From the story: According to a senior defense official, coalition forces have recently seized Iranian-made weapons and munitions that bear manufacturing dates in 2006. This suggests, say the sources, that the material is going directly from Iranian factories to Shia militias, rather than taking a roundabout path through the black market. "There is no way this could be done without (Iranian) government approval," says a senior official.
ABC News
ABC News
John Bettis Dies of Heart Attack
John Bettis, the father of Superbowl Champ and former Steeler running back Jerome Bettis died after suffering a heart attack. John Bettis was in his car in Detroit when he died. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jerome and his family.
Activists ask Rendell to veto bill allowing free drinks at casinos
Critics of the General Assembly, who raised a big ruckus last year in opposing a legislative pay raise, are now calling on Gov. Ed Rendell to veto a measure permitting unlimited free drinks to be served at slot machine casinos. Read More
Control of Pa. House to be determined today
The long-awaited outcome of two undecided legislative races in Chester County could be known by the end of today, and the results could flip control of the state House from Republican to Democrat for the first time in 12 years. Read More
Pope Benedict XVI: Turkey Is A 'Bridge Between Religions'
Pope Benedict XVI said Tuesday that Turkey is a bridge between religions and he appealed for solidarity between cultures in his first remarks after arriving in the predominantly Muslim nation.
Benedict began a four-day visit to Turkey, where he will seek to ease anger over his perceived criticism of Islam and mend a split with the world's Orthodox Christians.
NewsMax.com
Benedict began a four-day visit to Turkey, where he will seek to ease anger over his perceived criticism of Islam and mend a split with the world's Orthodox Christians.
NewsMax.com
JACKSON: N WORD NOT PROTECTED SPEECH
Jesse also called for a boycott of Seinfeld DVDs even though the word is in none of the episodes. But he didn’t call for a boycott of the 8 trillion DVDs with black comedians shouting the non-protected word.
FOX News
FOX News
MUSLIM DEMOCRAT SAYS HE WON’T TAKE OATH ON BIBLE
And insists it will be on the Koran. From Dennis Prater: Forgive me, but America should not give a hoot what Keith Ellison's favorite book is. Insofar as a member of Congress taking an oath to serve America and uphold its values is concerned, America is interested in only one book, the Bible. If you are incapable of taking an oath on that book, don't serve in Congress. In your personal life, we will fight for your right to prefer any other book. We will even fight for your right to publish cartoons mocking our Bible. But, Mr. Ellison, America, not you, decides on what book its public servants take their oath.
Townhall
Townhall
Rick Warren Has Lost His Purpose
For all you purpose driven lie fans out there Rick Warren has messed up yet again.
Last week he was praising the terrorist country Syria. No he has tossed aside the issue of abortion. Mr. Warren will welcome Senator Barack Obama to his church on December 1, 2006.
Rick Warren is bringing Senator Obama to his church to speak for his Global Summit on AIDS and the church and to take an AIDS test in front of the cameras at a noon press conference. Senator Obama comes to Rick Warren's church believing that abortion should be kept, "safe and legal" but Wrren rolls out the red carpet.
When Barack Obama campaigned for the U.S. Senate in 2004, his wife wrote a fundraising letter for him that revealed his support of partial-birth abortion. She said Obama's position is that the "partial-birth abortion ban . . . is clearly unconstitutional and must be overturned." Support of partial-birth abortion goes a lot farther than the politicians who want abortion to be "safe and legal." Senator Obama actually supports the barbaric practice of allowing abortionists to kill babies by allowing them to be partially, born, their skulls punctured and their brains sucked out.
Further, he repeatedly opposed an anti-infanticide bill in the state of Illinois that only passed after he left. Killing a child at any stage of life is a violation of God's clear command, "Thou Shall Do No Murder". In addition,Obama's solution to the growing AIDS crisis has been and continues to be the widespread distribution of condoms, not chaste behavior as directed by the Bible.
Some big names have come out to oppose Rick Warren's decision to ignore Senator Obama's clear pro-death stance and invite him to Saddleback Church anyway. If Senator Obama cannot defend the most helpless citizens in our country, he has nothing to say to the AIDS crisis. You cannot fight one evil while justifying another. The evangelical church can provide no genuine help for those who suffer from AIDS if those involved do not first have their ethic of life firmly rooted in the Word of God. Accordingly, they call on Pastor Rick Warren to rescind his invitation to Senator Obama immediately. The millions of silent victims who have died because of the policies of leaders like Senator Obama demand a response from those who believe that life is a gift from God. The name of the seminar at which Senator Obama will be appearing is entitled, " We Must Work Together." No, Mr. Warren, Mr. Obama, we will never work with those can support the murder of babies in the womb.
Last week he was praising the terrorist country Syria. No he has tossed aside the issue of abortion. Mr. Warren will welcome Senator Barack Obama to his church on December 1, 2006.
Rick Warren is bringing Senator Obama to his church to speak for his Global Summit on AIDS and the church and to take an AIDS test in front of the cameras at a noon press conference. Senator Obama comes to Rick Warren's church believing that abortion should be kept, "safe and legal" but Wrren rolls out the red carpet.
When Barack Obama campaigned for the U.S. Senate in 2004, his wife wrote a fundraising letter for him that revealed his support of partial-birth abortion. She said Obama's position is that the "partial-birth abortion ban . . . is clearly unconstitutional and must be overturned." Support of partial-birth abortion goes a lot farther than the politicians who want abortion to be "safe and legal." Senator Obama actually supports the barbaric practice of allowing abortionists to kill babies by allowing them to be partially, born, their skulls punctured and their brains sucked out.
Further, he repeatedly opposed an anti-infanticide bill in the state of Illinois that only passed after he left. Killing a child at any stage of life is a violation of God's clear command, "Thou Shall Do No Murder". In addition,Obama's solution to the growing AIDS crisis has been and continues to be the widespread distribution of condoms, not chaste behavior as directed by the Bible.
Some big names have come out to oppose Rick Warren's decision to ignore Senator Obama's clear pro-death stance and invite him to Saddleback Church anyway. If Senator Obama cannot defend the most helpless citizens in our country, he has nothing to say to the AIDS crisis. You cannot fight one evil while justifying another. The evangelical church can provide no genuine help for those who suffer from AIDS if those involved do not first have their ethic of life firmly rooted in the Word of God. Accordingly, they call on Pastor Rick Warren to rescind his invitation to Senator Obama immediately. The millions of silent victims who have died because of the policies of leaders like Senator Obama demand a response from those who believe that life is a gift from God. The name of the seminar at which Senator Obama will be appearing is entitled, " We Must Work Together." No, Mr. Warren, Mr. Obama, we will never work with those can support the murder of babies in the womb.
Rick Warren on Syria: 'A moderate country'
My Thanks to WORLDNET DAILY for this article.
I am much obliged to Bruce Delay, a talk-show host at KFAQ 1170 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, for downloading the audio version of Rick Warren's YouTube video, recorded while in Syria.
Now, keep in mind, Warren has been telling the world he was misquoted by the Syrian press when he extolled the virtues of the totalitarian police state.
But before anyone questioned his statements, Warren's Saddleback Church had recorded him as he strolled down a Damascus street explaining what a peaceful and tolerant place Syria really is.
As soon as I hotlinked to the YouTube video last week and questioned Rick Warren about it, the church yanked it. I didn't have time to download a copy, but, thankfully, one johnny-on-the-spot talk-show host did. You may not be able to see it, but you can at least hear it.
Full Article
I am much obliged to Bruce Delay, a talk-show host at KFAQ 1170 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, for downloading the audio version of Rick Warren's YouTube video, recorded while in Syria.
Now, keep in mind, Warren has been telling the world he was misquoted by the Syrian press when he extolled the virtues of the totalitarian police state.
But before anyone questioned his statements, Warren's Saddleback Church had recorded him as he strolled down a Damascus street explaining what a peaceful and tolerant place Syria really is.
As soon as I hotlinked to the YouTube video last week and questioned Rick Warren about it, the church yanked it. I didn't have time to download a copy, but, thankfully, one johnny-on-the-spot talk-show host did. You may not be able to see it, but you can at least hear it.
Full Article
PETA BLASTS LIVE NATIVITY SCENES FOR CRUELTY TO ANIMALS
Including one church that didn’t even use animals. PETA claims “Animals have been stolen and slaughtered, they've been raped, they've escaped from the nativity scenes and have been struck by cars and killed. Just really unfathomable things have happened to them.” Raped? I've never seen that as part of the display....
AP
AP
2006 HURRICANE SEASON “MOST TRANQUIL” IN A DECADE
After all the predictions of a global warming hurricane season disaster. (Tampa Bay Online) Meanwhile, global warming reaches the Supreme Court. (Houston Chronicle)
DEMOCRATS FACE TAX ISSUE
Where they may need to cut taxes to appease voters in Democratic states. Note that the writer of the story doesn’t seem to understand basic economics, repeatedly writing that cutting taxes will result in corresponding less revenue – seeming to have no idea that it leads to increased spending and many times even more revenue.
San Francisco Chronicle
San Francisco Chronicle
BARNEY FRANK: DEMOCRATS TO “MODIFY” DON’T ASK, DON’T TELL POLICY
Somehow, that didn’t even make the headline of this story. AP
Vatican Concludes Study on Condoms
The Vatican's office for health care has concluded a study on the use of condoms in the fight against AIDS, and a long-awaited report on it is now being examined by the Vatican's doctrinal watchdog, a senior cardinal said Tuesday.
But the prelate gave no indication of the position the study takes or when a final pronouncement might be made.
NewsMax.com
But the prelate gave no indication of the position the study takes or when a final pronouncement might be made.
NewsMax.com
Perzel vows to fight Gov. Rendell
House Speaker John Perzel yesterday set the tone for a contentious legislative session starting in January. Mr. Perzel, a Philadelphia Republican, claimed Democratic Gov. Ed Rendell is leading the state down a path of increased welfare spending and tax hikes, and said the Republican-controlled Legislature has been too willing to go along with him. Read More
Sen. Orie wins leadership post
Jane Orie of McCandless, a former Allegheny County assistant district attorney, wasn't even in the state Senate six years ago. Now she's the third-ranking leader. Read More
Turnpike For rent
Before the Legislature enacts higher gasoline taxes or motor vehicle fees to solve the money crisis facing roads, bridges and mass transit, Gov. Ed Rendell wants to take a look at leasing the 500-mile Pennsylvania Turnpike to a private operator. Read More
RUSSIA THE LATEST COUNTRY CONCERNED ABOUT MUSLIM BIRTHRATE
From the story: Low domestic birthrates and rising immigration from the former Soviet republics are producing explosive growth in Russia's Muslim community, which is on a track to account for more than half the population by midcentury. THEY DON'T ALLOW ABORTION!
Washington Times
Washington Times
POLYGAMISTS WORK TO BE MAINSTREAM
Note to all: This is what we mean by “defending traditional marriage.” It’s not just “anti-gay marriage.”
Washington Post
Washington Post
6 MUSLIM IMAMS REMOVED FROM PLANE
After causing suspicion from other passengers, they refused to leave when asked to do so by airport security. The story notes “Three of them stood and said their normal evening prayers together on the plane, as 1.7 billion Muslims around the world do every day, Shahin said. He attributed any concerns by passengers or crew to ignorance about Islam.”
FOX News
FOX News
MEDVED: DON’T BRING YOUR KIDS TO “HAPPY FEET”
Medved begins his Friday blog with this warning: This may be the darkest, most disturbing feature length animated film ever offered by a major studio. (Townhall) Remember, it was Warner Bros. who played to the gay crowd with their latest Superman movie. From the article: Warner Bros. declined to comment. But the studio is reaching out to some gay moviegoers. Warners has bought "Superman Returns" advertising time on Logo, a year-old digital cable channel in 20 million homes that calls itself "the channel for Gay America." (LA Times)
DEMOCRAT LEADERS WORK TO AVOID DRAFT VOTE
Pelosi, instead, will continue the effort to create class warfare, insisting “We want to take the country in a new direction, not just for privileged America.” (Reuters) Meanwhile, Pelosi’s battle with Jane Harmon goes public. But the story notes “Most people contacted for this article spoke only on condition of anonymity, not wanting to get on the wrong side of two formidable politicians.” (LA Times) “Formidable,” I believe, is not the most accurate word.
Control up in the air
While Senate Republicans hold a 29-21 majority, it isn't certain which party is going to control the state House of Representatives for the 2007-08 legislative session. The House majority hinges on the outcome of an undecided race for Chester County's 156th District. Read More
Group claims responsibilities for Basra kidnappings
A previously unknown Islamic terrorist group has claimed responsibility for abducting a group of four Americans and an Austrian in southern Iraq.Iranian-run Al-Alam television posted a report on its Web site today saying the group, called Islamic Companies, claimed responsibility for the kidnapping. The network said the group released a videotaped message saying that it was holding the five men. A photo issued with the report is of an unidentified man whose face was covered with traditional Arabic head dress reading the statement. He demanded the withdrawal of American forces and the release of all prisoners in Iraq.
TWENTYSOMETHINGS GREATLY IN DEBT
One stunning stat from the story: Nearly half of twentysomethings have stopped paying a debt, forcing lenders to "charge off" the debt and sell it to a collection agency, or had cars repossessed or sought bankruptcy protection.
USA Today
USA Today
DEAN: DEMOCRATS NEED MORE GAYS ON BALLOT
The leader of the Democratic party somehow thinks the world will be a better place if more homosexuals controlled it.
AP
AP
HOYER FEARS REVENGE FROM PELOSI
The story begins “Incoming House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer acknowledged yesterday that he was seeking assurances from presumptive Speaker Nancy Pelosi that she would not retaliate against his supporters after he won the No. 2 House leadership post.”
Washington Times
Washington Times
RANGEL CALLS FOR REINSTATING DRAFT
Remember all those “if the Democrats get control” warnings? (FOX News) Rangel was in the news just ten days ago saying “Mississippi gets more than their fair share back in federal money, but who the hell wants to live in Mississippi?” (Sun Herald) During the 2004 elections, the liberals were pretending Bush had plans for a draft. (CNS News)
WTAE dumps Madden
Channel 4 circulated a memo in-house saying the station had ended its freelance agreement with Mark Madden. He had been a regular panelist on their Sunday night (11:30) sports discussion show.
Apparently he said something insulting about one of the Steelers players and the player took offense. The Steelers let Channel 4 know it wouldn't be able to count on their cooperation in the future. Channel 4 then settled the situation by dumping Madden.
This is the second time Channel 4 has bounced Madden. He had a commentary spot on their news a couple of years ago. The P-G forced him out of his weekly column over taste issues and City Paper dumped him when he turned in a column ripping Myron Cope.
It's all about the love.....
Apparently he said something insulting about one of the Steelers players and the player took offense. The Steelers let Channel 4 know it wouldn't be able to count on their cooperation in the future. Channel 4 then settled the situation by dumping Madden.
This is the second time Channel 4 has bounced Madden. He had a commentary spot on their news a couple of years ago. The P-G forced him out of his weekly column over taste issues and City Paper dumped him when he turned in a column ripping Myron Cope.
It's all about the love.....
Surf's Up
Here is list of some spots I've found on the web. Learn, waste time or whatever. Happy surfing!
Saturday is National Family Volunteer Day, visit the Points of Light Foundation and find out how to get involved. http://www.pointsoflight.org/
With geoGreeting you can send greetings to your friends comprised of actual overhead buildings on Google Maps that look like letters of the alphabet. http://www.geogreeting.com/
You can improve the look of your personal web site, blog, and more at Blogbox.com. It's got free, open-source applications for personal web sites and blogs. http://www.blogbox.com/
The Banner Art Collective creates, collects, and distributes "net.art" and poetry within the limitations and context of web advertisements. You can view web banner ads and participate in the collection at http://www.bannerart.org/
Dress up your turkey in true style this year thanks to BlueMountain Greetings. Just play Dress the Turkey and when you've got your bird dressed, then send it in a greeting to a friend. The site also includes Turkey Pluck Game, Find the Turkey and Catch the Turkeys. http://www.bluemountain.com/category.pd?path=35276
Come back to the faith: Here’s how you do it
By John Franko
We see it every day. It could be a family member, friend or co-worker.
Someone who once called the church their home, but who has drifted away from the faith.
The reasons are many. Some may feel they aren’t worthy to receive the sacraments or attend Mass regularly because of a mistake, guilt over a bad decision or an unfortunate life situation.
Maybe there was a disagreement with a member of the clergy, or a disagreement with church law.
Some leave for a few weeks, while others drift away for a few months or even years. Some may return after decades, while many will never return at all.
But like the father in the parable of the prodigal son, the church is always ready to embrace its lost sheep and welcome them back into the fold.
“Every parish and faith community in the diocese is always eager to welcome back Catholics who have drifted away,” said Father James Wehner, director of the Department for Evangelization and rector of St. Paul Seminary in Crafton.
Father Wehner said many people think they must be “saints” in order to celebrate the faith, attend Mass or receive the sacraments. When they aren’t, they sometimes drift away.
Father Wehner recommended three steps for those who wish to return. The first is going to confession.
“The sacrament of penance is a beautiful, simple and dignified experience of our merciful God,” he said. “Imagine, we do not have to wait until the after-life to know if our sins are forgiven.”
Father Wehner noted that the examination of conscience is a good way to prepare for the sacrament. It allows people to determine how they have sinned — through word, action, thought or omission.
He said the Ten Commandments are a helpful guide in the examination of conscience.
Father Wehner pointed out that another step is to attend Mass, even during the week. He noted that many people who return to the church find the weekday Mass to be a special part of their day.
A final step, he said, is to read the “United States Catechism for Adults,” published by the U.S. bishops. He described it as an easy read that explains the faith in practical language.
“I find that many people drift away from the church because of their misunderstanding of what the church actually teaches,” Father Wehner said. “When one learns the tenets of the Catholic faith, they really do discover how consistent and practical that faith is in our complex, pluralistic society. The understanding of church teaching is what brings many people back into the church.”
Father Wehner said those who have been away from the church for an extended period of time may find participation in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults to be a meaningful spiritual encounter. Every parish is required to sponsor an RCIA program as a means of receiving unbaptized, non-Catholics and fallen-away Catholics into the church. He noted that those who wish to participate in the RCIA process should contact their pastor to determine if it is appropriate. Father Wehner said there are also a number of diocesan-wide efforts for Catholics who want to join other Catholics in learning about the faith and how to share it.
He said thousands of men are connected to the Catholic Men’s Fellowship, a lay apostolate for men who want to study Scripture, share faith and learn how to evangelize. Their Web site is www.cmfpitt.org.
For Catholic women who are seeking ways to deepen their faith, he pointed to the Pittsburgh chapter of Magnificat. More information is available by contacting Father Kenneth Oldenski, the organization’s chaplain, at 724-444-1988.
Father Wehner noted that while parishes are eager to welcome back Catholics who have drifted away, they must have strategies in place to make it possible.
In his last pastoral letter to the church of Pittsburgh, then-Bishop Donald Wuerl posed five questions for parishes: How well are liturgies celebrated? Is the liturgical music participatory? Are programs well organized? Does the preaching reflect quality? Are lay ministries flourishing?
“The response and answers to some of these questions can form our parishes to be welcoming, worshipping and evangelizing communities,” Father Wehner said.
More information is available by calling the Department for Evangelization at 412-456-3048.
We see it every day. It could be a family member, friend or co-worker.
Someone who once called the church their home, but who has drifted away from the faith.
The reasons are many. Some may feel they aren’t worthy to receive the sacraments or attend Mass regularly because of a mistake, guilt over a bad decision or an unfortunate life situation.
Maybe there was a disagreement with a member of the clergy, or a disagreement with church law.
Some leave for a few weeks, while others drift away for a few months or even years. Some may return after decades, while many will never return at all.
But like the father in the parable of the prodigal son, the church is always ready to embrace its lost sheep and welcome them back into the fold.
“Every parish and faith community in the diocese is always eager to welcome back Catholics who have drifted away,” said Father James Wehner, director of the Department for Evangelization and rector of St. Paul Seminary in Crafton.
Father Wehner said many people think they must be “saints” in order to celebrate the faith, attend Mass or receive the sacraments. When they aren’t, they sometimes drift away.
Father Wehner recommended three steps for those who wish to return. The first is going to confession.
“The sacrament of penance is a beautiful, simple and dignified experience of our merciful God,” he said. “Imagine, we do not have to wait until the after-life to know if our sins are forgiven.”
Father Wehner noted that the examination of conscience is a good way to prepare for the sacrament. It allows people to determine how they have sinned — through word, action, thought or omission.
He said the Ten Commandments are a helpful guide in the examination of conscience.
Father Wehner pointed out that another step is to attend Mass, even during the week. He noted that many people who return to the church find the weekday Mass to be a special part of their day.
A final step, he said, is to read the “United States Catechism for Adults,” published by the U.S. bishops. He described it as an easy read that explains the faith in practical language.
“I find that many people drift away from the church because of their misunderstanding of what the church actually teaches,” Father Wehner said. “When one learns the tenets of the Catholic faith, they really do discover how consistent and practical that faith is in our complex, pluralistic society. The understanding of church teaching is what brings many people back into the church.”
Father Wehner said those who have been away from the church for an extended period of time may find participation in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults to be a meaningful spiritual encounter. Every parish is required to sponsor an RCIA program as a means of receiving unbaptized, non-Catholics and fallen-away Catholics into the church. He noted that those who wish to participate in the RCIA process should contact their pastor to determine if it is appropriate. Father Wehner said there are also a number of diocesan-wide efforts for Catholics who want to join other Catholics in learning about the faith and how to share it.
He said thousands of men are connected to the Catholic Men’s Fellowship, a lay apostolate for men who want to study Scripture, share faith and learn how to evangelize. Their Web site is www.cmfpitt.org.
For Catholic women who are seeking ways to deepen their faith, he pointed to the Pittsburgh chapter of Magnificat. More information is available by contacting Father Kenneth Oldenski, the organization’s chaplain, at 724-444-1988.
Father Wehner noted that while parishes are eager to welcome back Catholics who have drifted away, they must have strategies in place to make it possible.
In his last pastoral letter to the church of Pittsburgh, then-Bishop Donald Wuerl posed five questions for parishes: How well are liturgies celebrated? Is the liturgical music participatory? Are programs well organized? Does the preaching reflect quality? Are lay ministries flourishing?
“The response and answers to some of these questions can form our parishes to be welcoming, worshipping and evangelizing communities,” Father Wehner said.
More information is available by calling the Department for Evangelization at 412-456-3048.
MAN ARRESTED AT AIRPORT WITH $78,900 IN CASH, NUCLEAR INFO
SCIENTISTS: FIGHT GLOBAL WARMING WITH POLLUTION
From the story: While carbon dioxide keeps heat from escaping Earth, substances such as sulfur dioxide, a common air pollutant, reflect solar radiation, helping cool the planet.CNN
“GAY PENGUIN” BOOK HAS PARENTS UPSET, SCHOOL DISTRICT DEFIANT
Oooops... That's the wrong gay penguin photo. Oh well....In the book, two male penguins raise a baby penguin. The story notes school district Superintendent Jennifer Filyaw wants the book to remain accessible to all children “though a panel she appointed suggested the book be moved and require parental permission to be checked out. The district's attorney said moving it might be construed as censorship.”
USA Today
WAL-MART BLASTS EDWARDS FOR NOT WAITING HIS TURN FOR PS3
MURTHA REJECTED BY DEMOCRATS
Rick Warren Praises Syria?
What was Rick Warren doing with Syria's Grand Mufti Sheikh Badr al-Din Hassoun? He says he went to Syria as a favor to his Muslim next-door neighbor. Interesting.... I met him face to face but was never able to get him to come on the show. Maybe I should have invited him to Syria.
I've been uncomfortable with this guy and his purpose driven marketing for years. Warren, author of the best-selling "The Purpose-Driven Life," visited Syria this week and was quoted by official Syrian news agencies as saying the U.S. should have been holding dialogues with Damascus, that Syrian Muslims and Christians co-exist peacefully and the Syrian leadership is responsible for the nation's tolerance and stability.
In an e-mail to WND Editor Joseph Farah, who blasted Warren today in his daily column, Warren writes: "Joseph, why didn't you contact me first and discover the fact I said nothing of the sort? The trip was a favor to my next-door neighbor, had nothing to do with policy, and was done with the State Department's knowledge."
However, in a video posted on YouTube but removed today, titled "Building Bridges," Warren is shown walking down a Damascus street commenting on political and social life in Syria, saying Christians and Muslims get along with each other.
The reports from the official Syrian news agency included statements that:
"Pastor Warren hailed the religious coexistence, tolerance and stability that the Syrian society is enjoying due to the wise leadership of President al-Assad, asserting that he will convey the true image about Syria to the American people."
"Syria wants peace, and Muslims and Christians live in this country jointly and peacefully since more than a thousand years, and this is not new for Syria."
Warren told Syria's Islamic grand mufti there could be no peace in the region without Syria and 80 percent of Americans reject the U.S. administration's policies and actions in Iraq.
Warren made no apologies for putting himself in a position to be used by the police state. But he did say: "I also know that anyone who speaks publicly all the time, is bound to say something dumb every now and then. So I ask for your patience and forgiveness in advance because I’m sure it will happen! Every day I'm amazed that God uses someone as flawed as I am. You should be too. Just don't believe everything you read by bloggers or hear in the media."
I've been uncomfortable with this guy and his purpose driven marketing for years. Warren, author of the best-selling "The Purpose-Driven Life," visited Syria this week and was quoted by official Syrian news agencies as saying the U.S. should have been holding dialogues with Damascus, that Syrian Muslims and Christians co-exist peacefully and the Syrian leadership is responsible for the nation's tolerance and stability.
In an e-mail to WND Editor Joseph Farah, who blasted Warren today in his daily column, Warren writes: "Joseph, why didn't you contact me first and discover the fact I said nothing of the sort? The trip was a favor to my next-door neighbor, had nothing to do with policy, and was done with the State Department's knowledge."
However, in a video posted on YouTube but removed today, titled "Building Bridges," Warren is shown walking down a Damascus street commenting on political and social life in Syria, saying Christians and Muslims get along with each other.
The reports from the official Syrian news agency included statements that:
"Pastor Warren hailed the religious coexistence, tolerance and stability that the Syrian society is enjoying due to the wise leadership of President al-Assad, asserting that he will convey the true image about Syria to the American people."
"Syria wants peace, and Muslims and Christians live in this country jointly and peacefully since more than a thousand years, and this is not new for Syria."
Warren told Syria's Islamic grand mufti there could be no peace in the region without Syria and 80 percent of Americans reject the U.S. administration's policies and actions in Iraq.
Warren made no apologies for putting himself in a position to be used by the police state. But he did say: "I also know that anyone who speaks publicly all the time, is bound to say something dumb every now and then. So I ask for your patience and forgiveness in advance because I’m sure it will happen! Every day I'm amazed that God uses someone as flawed as I am. You should be too. Just don't believe everything you read by bloggers or hear in the media."
Government needs to pay more attention to social ills of gambling, expert says
Governments like Pennsylvania's have become revenue-dependent promoters of the gambling industry instead of focusing on how to prevent and address social problems from the spread of casinos, a professor who studies the industry said yesterday. Read More
Trouble In Demland: Democrats Elect Hoyer
Rep. Steny H. Hoyer (D-Md.) was elected House majority leader this morning, defeating Speaker-designate Nancy Pelosi's candidate, Rep. John P. Murtha(D-Pa.).
I paused to cheer the democrats. (A rare occurence)
Hoyer won the No. 2 leadership job easily -- 149 to 86. But the showdown divided the Democratic House caucus only a week after the party won a majority of seats in the Congress that convenes in January. Before the caucus vote, a number of Democrats had complained that Pelosi and her allies used strong-arm tactics and threats to try to elect Murtha to the job.
Democrats this morning unanimously chose Pelosi (D-Calif.) to be the (strongarm) speaker of the House.
Washington Post
I paused to cheer the democrats. (A rare occurence)
Hoyer won the No. 2 leadership job easily -- 149 to 86. But the showdown divided the Democratic House caucus only a week after the party won a majority of seats in the Congress that convenes in January. Before the caucus vote, a number of Democrats had complained that Pelosi and her allies used strong-arm tactics and threats to try to elect Murtha to the job.
Democrats this morning unanimously chose Pelosi (D-Calif.) to be the (strongarm) speaker of the House.
Washington Post
Help transform a life
Today is the day of our "More Than a Meal" annual campaign for the hungry and homeless in our area through Light of Life Rescue Mission.Each time a poor, hungry person walks through the doors at Light of Life, there's a new opportunity for a life to be transformed! It starts with a meal, but often these people are hungry to turn their lives around, and Light of Life can do that -- with your help!
Call today: 1-866-496-7336
$37 will feed and care for 20 people - $50 will feed and care for 27 people - $100 will feed and care for 54 people Make a pledge today, and take part in changing the lives of those right here in Western Pennsylvania. Thank you!
Ministry Goes Too Far
It's was bound to happen. In this age of megachurches and "faith marketing" pushing the envelope has gone a bit too far. Leave it to me to cry foul.
I've talked a few times to Craig Gross. He and Mike Gross are the guys behind "XXXChurch". They are supposed to be out there fighting against porn. This is the ''ministry'' of XXXchurch. While they seem like a nice guys with good intentions, I think they have lost thier way. These "Pastors" have allowed the marketing to overwhelm the message.
First, let me say I don't believe either one of these men are qualified to be pastors. Today anyone can be a pastor. It doesn't take much. That's dangerous.
Their documentary ''Missionary Positions'' records this group attending a porn convention. We have entered this new era in which vulgarity is viewed as a legitimate method of ''outreach'' to the younger generations. What a mixed message.
There is no good way to explain my objections here so I hope I don't offend anyone by doing so. XXXChurch has a website that is using a cartoon of a male sex organ as its logo. Their slogan is, ''Find out if you have the balls to stop looking at porn.'' Is this really the best way to face this?
The Lord Jesus Christ did not send us out into the world to try to stop unsaved people from engaging in sinful conduct. I don't recall disciples erecting giant mock-ups of sex organs in an attempt to get laughs at the temples of Corinth so they could ''witness'' about Christ. They didn't hang out in the brothels with the prostitutes to try to lure them away from sinful sexual practices. They stood in the streets and in the synagogues and preached.
Man-made schemes and attempts at relevance in reaching people always lead to disaster. But we all seem to gaze in awe as the "purpose driven" parade goes marching by. Regardless of what they claim their good intentions are it doesn't take a genius to see this is out of control. Everone involved in this need to take a long hard look in the mirror before they make any pretense at Christian ministry. Otherwise they are only contributing to the darkness.
I've talked a few times to Craig Gross. He and Mike Gross are the guys behind "XXXChurch". They are supposed to be out there fighting against porn. This is the ''ministry'' of XXXchurch. While they seem like a nice guys with good intentions, I think they have lost thier way. These "Pastors" have allowed the marketing to overwhelm the message.
First, let me say I don't believe either one of these men are qualified to be pastors. Today anyone can be a pastor. It doesn't take much. That's dangerous.
Their documentary ''Missionary Positions'' records this group attending a porn convention. We have entered this new era in which vulgarity is viewed as a legitimate method of ''outreach'' to the younger generations. What a mixed message.
There is no good way to explain my objections here so I hope I don't offend anyone by doing so. XXXChurch has a website that is using a cartoon of a male sex organ as its logo. Their slogan is, ''Find out if you have the balls to stop looking at porn.'' Is this really the best way to face this?
The Lord Jesus Christ did not send us out into the world to try to stop unsaved people from engaging in sinful conduct. I don't recall disciples erecting giant mock-ups of sex organs in an attempt to get laughs at the temples of Corinth so they could ''witness'' about Christ. They didn't hang out in the brothels with the prostitutes to try to lure them away from sinful sexual practices. They stood in the streets and in the synagogues and preached.
Man-made schemes and attempts at relevance in reaching people always lead to disaster. But we all seem to gaze in awe as the "purpose driven" parade goes marching by. Regardless of what they claim their good intentions are it doesn't take a genius to see this is out of control. Everone involved in this need to take a long hard look in the mirror before they make any pretense at Christian ministry. Otherwise they are only contributing to the darkness.
U.S. Marine Toys for Tots Accepts Jesus Doll
Due to overwhelming public outrage, the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program has decided to change its position and will now accept Jesus, and other Bible dolls from one2believe. When the decision to decline one2believe's donation became public, Toys for Tots was the subject of hundreds of television and radio news stories. Toys for Tots also received many emails and phone calls at their Quantico Virginia headquarters from people upset by their decision not to accept the dolls because of their religious nature.
More Gen Xers putting on the veil
Here's a curious phenomenon: More younger women are entering Catholic convents. Over the past five years, Roman Catholic communities around the country have seen an increase in 20 to 30-year-old women. While the extremely conservative life of a nun may seem countercultural for young women today, experts and the women themselves say that's what attracts many of them. "Religious life itself is a radical choice," said Brother Paul Vednarczyk, executive director of the National Religious Vocation Conference in Chicago. "In an age where our primary secular values are sex, power, and money, for someone to choose chastity, obedience, and poverty is a radical statement."
AFTER ELECTION, SOME MAINSTREAM MEDIA NOW OPEN EYES TO DEMOCRATS
TOP GENERAL: DEM PULLOUT PLAN BAD TIMING
General John Abizaid testified before the Senate Armed Services Committee. (Washington Times) From another story: "Specific timetables limit that flexibility," he insisted. When Senator Hillary Clinton remarked that "hope is not a strategy", Gen Abizaid agreed but added that despair was not a policy either. (Telegraph) From Larry Elder: Pre-election, Democrats claimed they possessed a "unified" strategy to deal with Iraq. Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., had a "four-point plan." Rep. Rahm Emanuel, D-Ill., the architect of the Democratic House takeover, touted his "five-point plan." But on election night, after the Democratic takeover became obvious, Rep. Brad Sherman, D-Calif., offered a slightly different perspective. Sherman: I don't think the party has united behind a plan that is any more specific than we should leave a little sooner than George Bush has in mind. (Townhall)
O.J. PUBLISHER: THIS IS A CONFESSION
Radio Round Up
It's one week until Thanksgiving - and 35 stations are already all-Christmas. Markets like Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City and Ft. Myers/Naples already have two all-holiday stations. We expect plenty more to flip on the holiday lights next week, and you can track them at 100000 Watts . Last year the site reported over 300 stations doing all-Christmas, by Christmas week.
Clear Channel SOLD
As part of its just-announced sale, Clear Channel says it will sell 448 of its total stable of 1,150 radio stations, in a total of 90 markets all outside of market 100. (NOT PITTSBURGH) Note that this is not a total selloff of CC's small-market stations. San Antonio will also sell its 42-station TV group, operating in 24 markets. Combined those radio and TV stations account for less than 10% of Clear Channel revenues. CEO Mark Mays says the selloff will better position Clear Channel going forward. And the action in those 90 markets should keep the radio brokers - and buyers - very busy.
The Clear Channel board of directors agreed to a bid by the private equity firms Thomas H. Lee Partners and Bain Capital for $26.7 billion. Under the terms of the deal Clear Channel can negotiate with any firm offering more through January 5, but would have to pay a breakup fee. The deal still needs the approval of shareholders and regulators.
Not everyone is happy about this. Some of the biggest private equity groups are the target of a class action suit. One of the two deals that sparked the suit is Univision's sale to a group led by Haim Saban. And several of the "P.E." groups that are named - Blackstone and KKR - have been pursuing Clear Channel. The suit filed in New York alleges the plaintiffs conspired to keep selling prices down and thus shortchanged other shareholders.
The Clear Channel board of directors agreed to a bid by the private equity firms Thomas H. Lee Partners and Bain Capital for $26.7 billion. Under the terms of the deal Clear Channel can negotiate with any firm offering more through January 5, but would have to pay a breakup fee. The deal still needs the approval of shareholders and regulators.
Not everyone is happy about this. Some of the biggest private equity groups are the target of a class action suit. One of the two deals that sparked the suit is Univision's sale to a group led by Haim Saban. And several of the "P.E." groups that are named - Blackstone and KKR - have been pursuing Clear Channel. The suit filed in New York alleges the plaintiffs conspired to keep selling prices down and thus shortchanged other shareholders.
Too Much Christmas
Break out the Harry Simone Chorale and Elmo 'n Patsy --- WWSW-FM (94.5) has gone all-Christmas music already. For those of you playing along at home, it was just 10 months ago since the last time they were playing all-Christmas music! But a bad idea loves company so joining in the festivities full-time this year is Soft Rock WSHH (99.7) who, historically, started playing one Christmas tune per hour on Thanksgiving Day and built up to their "36 Hours of Christmas."
The programming monkeys strike again!
Clear Channel For Sale
After bids to purchase Clear Channel Communications were supposedly due at noon yesterday, two bids were submitted late last night, according to the New York Times. One group making a play for Clear Channel consists of Blackstone Group LP, Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. and Providence Equity Partners, while the other is made up of Bain Capital, Texas Pacific Group and Thomas H. Lee Partners.The exact offers were not disclosed, but the bids were expected to be worth $36 to $37 a share, which would value Clear Channel at about $18 billion. As reported yesterday, the Blackstone team is considered the frontrunner because it was the first to approach Clear Channel. Despite the offers, it was still unclear last night whether the Mays family would definitely sell the Clear Channel business, which they built. It is possible that they could decide to continue running the company if the bids are not high enough. The board is expected to quickly review the bids and reach a decision as early as this week, says the Times.
'Payback' Already Coming in Penn
A Pennsylvania pro-family group is denouncing Senator-elect Bob Casey, Jr., for pledging to advance hate crimes legislation once he's in Washington.
One day after the election, Casey announced that one of his priorities in the Senate will be to secure passage of a federal hate crimes law that includes "sexual orientation" and "gender identity." In a press released issued on November 8, Casey acknowledged that the nation's largest homosexual lobby group -- the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) -- had been a "tremendous help" during his campaign, calling the group's energy and commitment "extraordinary." He then stated he was looking forward to working with the HRC staff to advance hate crimes legislation.
AgapePress
One day after the election, Casey announced that one of his priorities in the Senate will be to secure passage of a federal hate crimes law that includes "sexual orientation" and "gender identity." In a press released issued on November 8, Casey acknowledged that the nation's largest homosexual lobby group -- the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) -- had been a "tremendous help" during his campaign, calling the group's energy and commitment "extraordinary." He then stated he was looking forward to working with the HRC staff to advance hate crimes legislation.
AgapePress
DePaul U. Blasted for Scheduling Pro-Homosexual Conference
(AgapePress) - The nation's largest Catholic university is under fire over its plan to host a conference aimed at expanding homosexuality-affirming teaching and curriculum on Catholic university campuses.
Next October DePaul University in Chicago will be hosting a two-day conference for professors and staff who are involved with "lesbian, bisexual, transgender, or queer" issues on Catholic campuses. The first "Out There" conference was held at Santa Clara University in 2005 and reportedly attracted 150 participants from more than 40 colleges and universities.
Pope to hold summit on married priests
Pope Benedict has called a meeting Thursday with top Vatican officials to discuss lifting the celibacy requirement for priests seeking to marry or who have already married.
Benedict called the summit to examine the implications of the "disobedience" of Archbishop Emmanuel Milingo, the Zambian prelate excommunicated in September for installing four married American men as bishops, the Vatican said Monday. Milingo himslef married a South Korean acupuncturist chosen for him by the Rev. Sun Myung Moon of the Unification Church.
The Vatican stressed the meeting would not open a general discussion of the celibacy requirement but would only examine requests for dispensation made by priests wishing to marry and requests for readmission made by clergy who had married in recent years.
AP
Benedict called the summit to examine the implications of the "disobedience" of Archbishop Emmanuel Milingo, the Zambian prelate excommunicated in September for installing four married American men as bishops, the Vatican said Monday. Milingo himslef married a South Korean acupuncturist chosen for him by the Rev. Sun Myung Moon of the Unification Church.
The Vatican stressed the meeting would not open a general discussion of the celibacy requirement but would only examine requests for dispensation made by priests wishing to marry and requests for readmission made by clergy who had married in recent years.
AP
U.S. Catholic bishops tackle contraception, gays, communion
The nation's Catholic bishops adopted guidelines saying that those who minister to gay people should help them live chastely -- a document criticized by many gay Catholics but also by a group of conservative bishops who thought it should also exhort gay people to try to change their sexual orientation.
On another sexual issue, the bishops voted 220-11 without debate to approve a brochure for engaged couples that explains church teaching against artificial contraception and urges them to use natural family planning based on the woman's fertility cycle. But contraception figured heavily into a debate over a document on reception of communion, with the bishops rejecting an effort to name contraception as a reason to refrain from receiving communion.
Same old bosses in Pa. House
Reform-minded voters last week put a large number of newcomers into office, but both state House caucuses remained resistant to change yesterday. Read More
1 Percent of Web Deemed Pornographic
About 1 percent of Web sites indexed by Google and Microsoft are sexually explicit, according to a U.S. government-commissioned study.
Government lawyers introduced the study in court this month as the Justice Department seeks to revive the 1998 Child Online Protection Act, which required commercial Web sites to collect a credit card number or other proof of age before allowing Internet users to view material deemed "harmful to minors."
AP
Government lawyers introduced the study in court this month as the Justice Department seeks to revive the 1998 Child Online Protection Act, which required commercial Web sites to collect a credit card number or other proof of age before allowing Internet users to view material deemed "harmful to minors."
AP
ABRAMOFF OFFERS TESTIMONY ON DEMOCRATS
From the story: Sources close to the investigation say Abramoff has provided information on his dealings with and campaign contributions and gifts to "dozens of members of Congress and staff," including what Abramoff has reportedly described as "six to eight seriously corrupt Democratic senators."
ABC News
ABC News
TRACES OF PLUTONIUM AND ENRICHED URANIUM FOUND IN IRAN
The IAEA announced this as Ahmadinejad said the world had no choice but to "live with a nuclear Iran.”
Washington Post
Washington Post
REPORT: HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS PRODUCING LOTS OF SMOG
From the story: The industry tops hotels, aerospace, and apparel and semiconductor manufacturing in traditional air pollutant emissions in Southern California, according to the study, initially prepared for the Integrated Waste Management Board, and is probably second only to petroleum refineries, for which comparable data were not available. The entertainment industry ranks third in greenhouse gas emissions. (LA Times) We’ll see if Democrats crack down on Hollywood. (ABC News)
JAMES WEBB ARTICLE PITS RICH AGAINST POOR
The senator elect insists “It should be the first order of business for the new Congress to begin addressing these divisions, and to work to bring true fairness back to economic life.” He also used the strangely inaccurate phrase “they are literally living in a different country.” (WSJ) The U.S. Senate is full of wealthy Americans, led by Democrats. This list is from 2003. (CNN)
If I were the devil...
The following is a 1993 article by the famous radio personality, Paul Harvey:
If I were the prince of darkness I’d want to engulf the whole world in darkness, and I’d have a third of its real estate and four fifths of its population. But I wouldn’t be happy until I had seized the ripest apple on the tree: thee.
So I’d set about however necessary, to take over the United States. I’d subvert the churches first. I’d begin with a campaign of whispers. With the wisdom of a serpent I would whisper to you as I whispered to Eve, “Do as you please.” To the young I would whisper that the Bible is a myth. I would convince them that man created God, instead of the other way around. I would confide that what’s bad is good, and what’s good is square. And the old I would teach to pray after me, “our father which art in Washington...”
And then I’d get organized: I’d educate authors in how to make lurid literature exciting so that anything else would appear dull and uninteresting. I’d threaten TV with dirtier movies, and visa versa. I’d peddle narcotics to whom I could. I’d sell alcohol to ladies and gentlemen of distinction. I’d tranquilize the rest with pills.
If I were the devil I’d soon have families at war with themselves; churches at war with themselves; and nations at war with themselves; until each in its turn was consumed. And with promises of higher ratings, I’d have mesmerizing media fanning the flames.
If I were the devil I would encourage schools to refine young intellect, but neglect to discipline emotions; just let those run wild, until before you knew it you’d have to have drug-sniffing dogs and metal detectors at every schoolhouse door.
Within a decade I’d have prisons overflowing; I’d have judges promoting pornography. Soon I could evict God from the courthouse, then from the schoolhouse, and then from the houses of Congress. And in His own churches I would substitute psychology for religion and deify science. I would lure priests and pastors into misusing boys and girls—and church money.
If I were the devil I’d make the symbol of Easter an egg, and the symbol of Christmas a bottle.
If I were the devil I’d take from those who have, and give to those who want it, until I had killed the incentive of the ambitious. And what’ll you bet I couldn’t get whole states to promote gambling as the way to get rich.
I would caution against extremes, and hard work, and patriotism, and moral conduct. I would convince the young that marriage is old fashioned—that swinging is more fun. That what you see on TV is the way to be. And thus I could undress you in public, and I could lure you into bed with diseases for which there is no cure.
In other words, if I were the devil I would just keep on doing what he is doing.
Paul Harvey, March 16, 1993
If I were the prince of darkness I’d want to engulf the whole world in darkness, and I’d have a third of its real estate and four fifths of its population. But I wouldn’t be happy until I had seized the ripest apple on the tree: thee.
So I’d set about however necessary, to take over the United States. I’d subvert the churches first. I’d begin with a campaign of whispers. With the wisdom of a serpent I would whisper to you as I whispered to Eve, “Do as you please.” To the young I would whisper that the Bible is a myth. I would convince them that man created God, instead of the other way around. I would confide that what’s bad is good, and what’s good is square. And the old I would teach to pray after me, “our father which art in Washington...”
And then I’d get organized: I’d educate authors in how to make lurid literature exciting so that anything else would appear dull and uninteresting. I’d threaten TV with dirtier movies, and visa versa. I’d peddle narcotics to whom I could. I’d sell alcohol to ladies and gentlemen of distinction. I’d tranquilize the rest with pills.
If I were the devil I’d soon have families at war with themselves; churches at war with themselves; and nations at war with themselves; until each in its turn was consumed. And with promises of higher ratings, I’d have mesmerizing media fanning the flames.
If I were the devil I would encourage schools to refine young intellect, but neglect to discipline emotions; just let those run wild, until before you knew it you’d have to have drug-sniffing dogs and metal detectors at every schoolhouse door.
Within a decade I’d have prisons overflowing; I’d have judges promoting pornography. Soon I could evict God from the courthouse, then from the schoolhouse, and then from the houses of Congress. And in His own churches I would substitute psychology for religion and deify science. I would lure priests and pastors into misusing boys and girls—and church money.
If I were the devil I’d make the symbol of Easter an egg, and the symbol of Christmas a bottle.
If I were the devil I’d take from those who have, and give to those who want it, until I had killed the incentive of the ambitious. And what’ll you bet I couldn’t get whole states to promote gambling as the way to get rich.
I would caution against extremes, and hard work, and patriotism, and moral conduct. I would convince the young that marriage is old fashioned—that swinging is more fun. That what you see on TV is the way to be. And thus I could undress you in public, and I could lure you into bed with diseases for which there is no cure.
In other words, if I were the devil I would just keep on doing what he is doing.
Paul Harvey, March 16, 1993
You Look Alot Like....
The Russian publication Kommersant has published a newly located photograph of a U.S. hostage-taker in Iran circa 1979 bearing a striking resemblance to President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Is it him? You decide....
Let The Games Begin
Hundreds of gamblers with quarters burning holes in their pockets lined up for three hours in a cold drizzle this morning waiting for the state's first slot machine casino to open.
At 10 a.m., confetti canons fired from the roof of the Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs and the enthusiastic crowd flowed in. The casino in this small town a few miles east of Wilkes-Barre is the first of what are expected to be 14 casinos authorized in 2004.
On hand was Lt. Gov. Catherine Baker Knoll, who said she and Gov. Ed Rendell had worked several years to make casinos a reality in the state.
"People's lives will be better" because some of the tax revenue is designed to offset property taxes for the elderly," Ms. Knoll said.
Huh? What? Elderly? Isn't that what the lottery is supposed to do? What about the rest of us that were promised that our property taxes would be cut by 30%. I'll be one of the elderly by the time we get any real property tax reform around here. I'll give you 50:1 that taxes go up before they go down. That's a SAFE BET!
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
At 10 a.m., confetti canons fired from the roof of the Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs and the enthusiastic crowd flowed in. The casino in this small town a few miles east of Wilkes-Barre is the first of what are expected to be 14 casinos authorized in 2004.
On hand was Lt. Gov. Catherine Baker Knoll, who said she and Gov. Ed Rendell had worked several years to make casinos a reality in the state.
"People's lives will be better" because some of the tax revenue is designed to offset property taxes for the elderly," Ms. Knoll said.
Huh? What? Elderly? Isn't that what the lottery is supposed to do? What about the rest of us that were promised that our property taxes would be cut by 30%. I'll be one of the elderly by the time we get any real property tax reform around here. I'll give you 50:1 that taxes go up before they go down. That's a SAFE BET!
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
House votes to remove inheritance property tax
Lawmakers last night moved a step closer to eliminating the so-called death tax imposed on heirs. In a 163-29 vote, House members agreed to phase out the tax over four years. The legislation now heads to the Senate. Read More
A taxing ride may be ahead for Pa.
Higher gas taxes. Steeper car registration fees. Hikes in local realty transfer taxes, wage taxes or sales taxes. Perhaps even a lease of the Pennsylvania Turnpike. That politically risky prescription for fixing Pennsylvania's crumbling network of roads and bridges and ailing public transit was presented to state legislators yesterday by a bipartisan advisory commission. Read More
State court rejects lawsuit over 'perks' for legislators
State legislators' car leases, health insurance, and per diems are not forbidden by the Pennsylvania constitution, a six-judge panel ruled yesterday. Read More
IT'S A BIRD, IT'S A PLANE, IT'S TAXES!
That was fast. A mere two days after Democrats capture Congress claiming they wouldn't raise taxes, former Treasury Secretary Robert Rubin tells them they should do so anyway. "You cannot solve the nation's fiscal problems without increased revenues," declared Mr. Rubin, the Democratic Party's leading economic spokesman, in a speech last Thursday. He also took a crack at economic forecasting by noting that "I think if you were to increase taxes right now, you would have probably about zero negative effect on the economy." The economics and politics here are worth parsing.
AAAGGGGGHHHHH! Higher taxes do not equal increased revenue. What does it take to understand that? This is the same guy that opposed to the 2003 Bush tax cuts, which he predicted would bust the budget and do little for growth. The U.S. economy proceeded to grow by an average of nearly 4% a year for three years following mid-2003, until the recent slowdown due largely to the housing slump.
The Wall Street Journal says: Everyone makes mistakes, but raising taxes amid a housing decline doesn't sound like brilliant policy to us. Depending on inflation signals in the coming weeks, the Federal Reserve may not be done raising interest rates. The best hope for avoiding a recession next year and into 2008 is that strong corporate profits and the tight job market will lift business investment and consumer spending enough to offset the impact of tighter monetary policy.
We suspect that Mr. Rubin's real game here is politics. The Citigroup Inc. executive is part of Hillary Rodham Clinton's braintrust, and he and she would like nothing better than to coax Mr. Bush into raising taxes in the next two years. That would take the tax issue off the table in 2008, while splintering Republicans the way President George H.W. Bush's tax-hike deal with George Mitchell did going into 1992.
Everyone should read this article to know what's really going on.
Wall Street Journal
MEDICAL GROUPS ASK: WHY DO MEN DIE YOUNGER THAN WOMEN?
To escape! (Just kidding)
From the story: Men’s health advocates say that men are silently suffering through what may be a serious health crisis. “We keep throwing out lifestyle as an explanation for the differences in longevity, saying that men come in later for care and have unhealthy behaviors, but I’m not sure we really know the reason,” Dr. Porche said. “And we haven’t answered the question: Is there a biological determinant for why men die earlier than women?”
NY Times
From the story: Men’s health advocates say that men are silently suffering through what may be a serious health crisis. “We keep throwing out lifestyle as an explanation for the differences in longevity, saying that men come in later for care and have unhealthy behaviors, but I’m not sure we really know the reason,” Dr. Porche said. “And we haven’t answered the question: Is there a biological determinant for why men die earlier than women?”
NY Times
ABC NEWS: MAYBE EVANGELICALS WILL BECOME DEMOCRATS NOW
The story begins: “The election results seem to have opened up a debate among some Christian evangelists as to what to do next — stick with a Republican Party that's out of power in Congress and which, some suggest, hasn't fulfilled its promises to them, or see if the Democrats have a home for them.” Nice try.
ABC News
ABC News
HILLARY: “HEATH CARE IS COMING BACK”
She said this after claiming the Senate will now be more bipartisan. AP
How about health savings accounts Hillary? Oh, that would mean I would be in charge of my own money and we can't have that now can we?
How about health savings accounts Hillary? Oh, that would mean I would be in charge of my own money and we can't have that now can we?
PELOSI CRITICIZED FOR BACKING MURTHA
Which clearly goes against her claim to put integrity back into congress. (Washington Times) The liberal group Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington is among the critics. (CREW)
Trouble in Paradise?????
Trouble in Paradise?????
AHMADINEJAD: ISRAEL’S DESTRUCTION NEAR
The full quote: “The western powers created the Zionist regime in order to expand their control of the area. This regime massacres Palestinians everyday, but since this regime is against nature, we will soon witness its disappearance and destruction.” (YNet) From another story: Olmert warned that Iran posed a threat not just to Israel, but to the world. (International Herald Tribune)
Voter displeasure sends Harrisburg biggest 'freshman' class in years
Jim Marshall, a 46-year-old silver recycler, is part of an influx of 55 brand new lawmakers headed to Harrisburg, the biggest wave of newcomers to the statehouse in 26 years. Read More
ELTON JOHN: “I WOULD BAN RELIGION COMPLETELY”
LIEBERMAN DOESN’T RULE OUT SWITCH TO GOP
From the story: “I'm not ruling it out but I hope I don't get to that point," he said. "And I must say -- and with all respect to the Republicans who supported me in Connecticut -- nobody ever said, 'We're doing this because we want you to switch over. We want you to do what you think is right and good for our state and country,' and I appreciate that." (AP)
PELOSI ENDORSES MURTHA AS MAJORITY LEADER
The far left begins its work. (FOX News) In June, Murtha accused the US of being the top threat to world peace. From the story: American presence in Iraq is more dangerous to world peace than nuclear threats from North Korea or Iran, Rep. John Murtha, D-Pa., said to an audience of more than 200 in North Miami Saturday afternoon. (South Florida Sun-Sentinel) It was Murtha who said of the United States: “I think that we're inciting terrorism.” (Washington Times) A year ago, the House voted on Murtha’s insistence that U.S. troops pull out of Iraq in six months. That would have taken them out of the area before we got Zarqawi. (Washington Times) Murtha was accused of being part of the Abscam scandal. Apparently there’s video evidence. (Washington Times)
Clear Channel Served with Subpoena
Clear Channel has received a subpoena from the U.S. Attorney in New York regarding spots that allegedly aired on its stations for offshore and online gambling operations. The demand for information was issued last month by the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, the San Antonio-based company said in a filing with the SEC. Clear Channel also said in the filing that it received a similar subpoena from the U.S. Attorney in Missouri in 2003.
Bob Casey Already Exposes His Anti-Free Speech Intentions
The Senator-elect of Pennsylvania has expressed his desire to get federal law passed that would infringe upon the First Amendment rights of millions of Americans. The dust from the mid-term elections had not yet settled on Wednesday when Bob Casey, Jr. announced that he would be pushing for a federal hate crimes law that included 'sexual orientation' and 'gender identity.' This announcement came as payback for the support the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) gave Casey's campaign.
In a news release issued by the HRC on November 8th Bob Casey said, "HRC got behind my campaign early and has been a tremendous help. The energy and commitment they put behind our campaign was extraordinary. I look forward to working with HRC's incredible staff and membership, especially to advance hate crimes legislation in the Senate."
Casey ran on a pro-family, pro-life platform . . . it didn't take him long to reveal his true colors. In addition, the Federal Election Commission reveals that MoveOn.org, the far-left interest group, has "bundled" $168,591 for the Casey campaign. George Soros is one of the main contributors to MoveOn.org -- a political organization once described by The Washington Post as having "a vigorously liberal agenda."
Fidelis, a conservative Catholic organization, reported on February 27th that the Human Rights Campaign collected and donated $100,000 to Casey's campaign. They also report he received contributions from People for the American Way ($10,000), George Soros ($4,200), Hillary Rodham Clinton's PAC ($5,000) and MoveOn.org ($150,000).
What have we done??????????????
In a news release issued by the HRC on November 8th Bob Casey said, "HRC got behind my campaign early and has been a tremendous help. The energy and commitment they put behind our campaign was extraordinary. I look forward to working with HRC's incredible staff and membership, especially to advance hate crimes legislation in the Senate."
Casey ran on a pro-family, pro-life platform . . . it didn't take him long to reveal his true colors. In addition, the Federal Election Commission reveals that MoveOn.org, the far-left interest group, has "bundled" $168,591 for the Casey campaign. George Soros is one of the main contributors to MoveOn.org -- a political organization once described by The Washington Post as having "a vigorously liberal agenda."
Fidelis, a conservative Catholic organization, reported on February 27th that the Human Rights Campaign collected and donated $100,000 to Casey's campaign. They also report he received contributions from People for the American Way ($10,000), George Soros ($4,200), Hillary Rodham Clinton's PAC ($5,000) and MoveOn.org ($150,000).
What have we done??????????????
Annan: Politics behind rift with Islam
Politics, and not religion, is at the heart of the growing rift between the West and the Muslim world, UN secretary-general Kofi Annan has said.
"We should start by reaffirming and demonstrating that the problem is not the Quran or the Torah or the Bible," Annan said in response to a report by the multinational group of scholars that sets out proposals to overcome the problem.
"Indeed, I have often said that the problem is never the faith, it is the faithful and how they behave towards each other."
When the "faithful" are told by their faith to kill others we have much more than a political problem.
Aljazeera
"We should start by reaffirming and demonstrating that the problem is not the Quran or the Torah or the Bible," Annan said in response to a report by the multinational group of scholars that sets out proposals to overcome the problem.
"Indeed, I have often said that the problem is never the faith, it is the faithful and how they behave towards each other."
When the "faithful" are told by their faith to kill others we have much more than a political problem.
Aljazeera
SOUND THE ALARM: Charges Sought Against Rumsfeld
Just days after his resignation, Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld is about to face more repercussions for his involvement in the troubled wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. New legal documents, to be filed next week with Germany's top prosecutor, will seek a criminal investigation and prosecution of Rumsfeld, along with Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, former CIA director George Tenet and other senior U.S. civilian and military officers, for their alleged roles in abuses committed at Iraq's Abu Ghraib prison and at the U.S. detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
Along with Rumsfeld, Gonzales and Tenet, the other defendants in the case are Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence Stephen Cambone; former assistant attorney general Jay Bybee; former deputy assisant attorney general John Yoo; General Counsel for the Department of Defense William James Haynes II; and David S. Addington, Vice President Dick Cheney's chief of staff. Senior military officers named in the filing are General Ricardo Sanchez, the former top Army official in Iraq; Gen. Geoffrey Miller, the former commander of Guantanamo; senior Iraq commander, Major General Walter Wojdakowski; and Col. Thomas Pappas, the one-time head of military intelligence at Abu Ghraib.
Germany was chosen for the court filing because German law provides "universal jurisdiction" allowing for the prosecution of war crimes and related offenses that take place anywhere in the world.
Along with Rumsfeld, Gonzales and Tenet, the other defendants in the case are Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence Stephen Cambone; former assistant attorney general Jay Bybee; former deputy assisant attorney general John Yoo; General Counsel for the Department of Defense William James Haynes II; and David S. Addington, Vice President Dick Cheney's chief of staff. Senior military officers named in the filing are General Ricardo Sanchez, the former top Army official in Iraq; Gen. Geoffrey Miller, the former commander of Guantanamo; senior Iraq commander, Major General Walter Wojdakowski; and Col. Thomas Pappas, the one-time head of military intelligence at Abu Ghraib.
Germany was chosen for the court filing because German law provides "universal jurisdiction" allowing for the prosecution of war crimes and related offenses that take place anywhere in the world.
Including primary, 24 state lawmakers ousted in '06
Eight incumbent state lawmakers were defeated Tuesday, including a Republican who lost his party's nomination, made the fall ballot as a write-in Democrat, and then lost again. Read More
Easy pay bill for $52 tax vetoed
In a surprise move, Gov. Ed Rendell yesterday vetoed a bill that would have required Pennsylvania employers to collect the $52 local services tax in per-paycheck installments.
Read More
Read More
Ken Mehlman "Out"
I don't like rumors. Sure they are everywhere and sometimes you have to run with something unconfirmed, but it's always a risk. This is one of those times.
Republican National Committee Chairman Ken Mehlman, whom I've meet several times is about to resign. He says the decision was made over the summer and has nothing to do with the outcome of the election. OK fine, it has nothing to do with the election, but could there be another reason for his departure?
In the wake of corruption and scandals that cost the GOP dearly, accusations surrounding Mehlman's sexuality are flying. It's really none of anyone's business if the man is gay or not, but I must admit it would appear a bit hypocritical to promote the platform of the GOP if it is true. The question is do we have the right to know? A reporter thinks we do.
Ken Mehlman was asked directly if he is gay. To which he responded, "[You] have asked a question people shouldn't have to answer". Mehlman added that his sexual orientation, whatever it is, "changes nothing". Hhmmm....
These accusations started back in 2004, but recently Bill Maher went on CNN's "Larry King Live" claiming many chiefs of staff in Washington DC are homosexuals. When asked by King to name names, Maher threw out the name of no one less than GOP party leader Ken Mehlman. How Maher knows this was not asked by Larry King. CNN (which airs "Larry King Live" live, and then shows repeats through the night) quickly edited out Maher's accusation for the rebroadcasts, and even scrubbed the official CNN transcript.
What in the world is going on? Did CNN fear a lawsuit? Was Maher drunk off the democratic victory when he tossed out his claim?
I don't know what's true here and what's not. I'm not even sure if it really matters. What I do know is this.... The Republican party better get their house in order pronto. Say what you mean, mean what you say and put someone reliable at the gate. Trust is hard to earn but very easy to loose. The GOP has some serious earning to do. Don't tell me what you stand for, SHOW ME.
I'm going to try to shower some of this filth off........
Republican National Committee Chairman Ken Mehlman, whom I've meet several times is about to resign. He says the decision was made over the summer and has nothing to do with the outcome of the election. OK fine, it has nothing to do with the election, but could there be another reason for his departure?
In the wake of corruption and scandals that cost the GOP dearly, accusations surrounding Mehlman's sexuality are flying. It's really none of anyone's business if the man is gay or not, but I must admit it would appear a bit hypocritical to promote the platform of the GOP if it is true. The question is do we have the right to know? A reporter thinks we do.
Ken Mehlman was asked directly if he is gay. To which he responded, "[You] have asked a question people shouldn't have to answer". Mehlman added that his sexual orientation, whatever it is, "changes nothing". Hhmmm....
These accusations started back in 2004, but recently Bill Maher went on CNN's "Larry King Live" claiming many chiefs of staff in Washington DC are homosexuals. When asked by King to name names, Maher threw out the name of no one less than GOP party leader Ken Mehlman. How Maher knows this was not asked by Larry King. CNN (which airs "Larry King Live" live, and then shows repeats through the night) quickly edited out Maher's accusation for the rebroadcasts, and even scrubbed the official CNN transcript.
What in the world is going on? Did CNN fear a lawsuit? Was Maher drunk off the democratic victory when he tossed out his claim?
I don't know what's true here and what's not. I'm not even sure if it really matters. What I do know is this.... The Republican party better get their house in order pronto. Say what you mean, mean what you say and put someone reliable at the gate. Trust is hard to earn but very easy to loose. The GOP has some serious earning to do. Don't tell me what you stand for, SHOW ME.
I'm going to try to shower some of this filth off........
Popcorn and the Pope
A movie about Christmas by the company that produced the Oscar-winning "The Lord of the Rings" will make its world premiere at the Vatican this month.
"The Nativity Story," which opens in the United States and Italy on Dec. 1, will be screened at the Vatican's Pope Paul VI Hall on Nov. 26, Vatican officials said Friday.
"The Nativity Story," which opens in the United States and Italy on Dec. 1, will be screened at the Vatican's Pope Paul VI Hall on Nov. 26, Vatican officials said Friday.
COLLEGE STUDENT LEADERS BAN PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AT MEETINGS
From the story: Bell said the ban largely came about because the trustees didn't want to publicly vow loyalty to the American government before their meetings. "Loyalty ought to be something the government earns through performance, not through reciting a pledge," he said. The Orange Coast College spokesperson didn’t have the guts to take a stand.
Reuters
Reuters
WACKY DEMOCRATS SURFACING
Boxer insists global warming will be a major issue. (Santa Barbara News-Press) The first Muslim in the Senate will speak at a CAIR event. (Little Green Footballs) Then there’s this from Rangel: Mississippi gets more than their fair share back in federal money, but who the hell wants to live in Mississippi?” (Sun Herald)
Catholic shift gives Democrats big boost
Catholics, who compose a massive 67-million-person slice of the electorate, favored Democrats in Tuesday's election by a 55 percent to 45 percent margin, according to National Election Pool exit polls. Read More
State bridges rated second worst nationally behind R.I.
Only Rhode Island is ahead of Pennsylvania for having the most structurally deficient and obsolete bridges, according to yet another survey -- this one conducted by Better Roads, a magazine that represents highway professionals and the transportation industry. Read More
Ed Rendell's Election Loss
Gov. Rendell's landslide victory over Republican Lynn Swann on Tuesday could end up costing him thousands of dollars - literally.
The governor admitted yesterday that in a moment of weakness in February, he made a bet with his 26-year-old son, Jesse, while they were at the Philadelphia International Auto Show. Jesse Rendell said his father would win the election with more than 60 percent of the vote. Gov. Rendell said no way.
In front of them was "this beautiful teal Aston Martin convertible," Rendell said, so he took a gamble: if his son were right, he'd buy him the sleek British sports car.
Yesterday afternoon, with 99 percent of precincts reporting, the governor had 2,414,541 votes - or 60 percent.
Oops.
A 2006 Aston Martin V8 Vantage sports car retails at $110,000, according to the automotive Web site edmunds.com.
Rendell said yesterday that he would somehow have to make good on his promise - although he joked that he never said what year Aston he'd buy.
His wife, Midge - U.S. Third Circuit Court of Appeals Judge Marjorie O. Rendell - is currently negotiating a compromise.
The governor admitted yesterday that in a moment of weakness in February, he made a bet with his 26-year-old son, Jesse, while they were at the Philadelphia International Auto Show. Jesse Rendell said his father would win the election with more than 60 percent of the vote. Gov. Rendell said no way.
In front of them was "this beautiful teal Aston Martin convertible," Rendell said, so he took a gamble: if his son were right, he'd buy him the sleek British sports car.
Yesterday afternoon, with 99 percent of precincts reporting, the governor had 2,414,541 votes - or 60 percent.
Oops.
A 2006 Aston Martin V8 Vantage sports car retails at $110,000, according to the automotive Web site edmunds.com.
Rendell said yesterday that he would somehow have to make good on his promise - although he joked that he never said what year Aston he'd buy.
His wife, Midge - U.S. Third Circuit Court of Appeals Judge Marjorie O. Rendell - is currently negotiating a compromise.
JAIL PAINTED PINK WITH BLUE TEDDY BEARS
After inmates trashed the place. The sheriff explained “Basically, if they are going to act like children and commit a childish act, then we'll make a childish atmosphere.”
Hahhhhhhh........ Now that's a great use of tax money!!!!!!!!!!
WCBS
Hahhhhhhh........ Now that's a great use of tax money!!!!!!!!!!
WCBS
MUSLIM COUNTRIES/U.S. HATERS CHEER GOP LOSS
From one story: ``The Republicans lost in the election because the American voters are now fed up and bored with the war,'' said Vitaya Wisetrat, a prominent, anti-American Muslim cleric in Thailand. ``The American people now realize that Bush is the big liar.'' (Guardian) While much of the world celebrates, Israel has reason for concern. (AP) Another story on the reaction in Arab nations. (Forbes) The ACLU was also thrilled. (ACLU) As was Michael Moore. (Michael Moore) From another story: One Frenchman, teacher Jean-Pierre Charpemtrat, 53, said it was about time U.S. voters figured out what much of the rest of the world already knew. "Americans are realizing that you can't found the politics of a country on patriotic passion and reflexes," he said. "You can't fool everybody all the time — and I think that's what Bush and his administration are learning today." (FOX News)
John Bolton Likely to Depart
U.S. ambassador to the United Nations John Bolton will likely leave his post next month. After a rocky series of Senate confirmation hearings, Bolton was sent to the U.N. by President Bush in August 2005 under a recess appointment. That allowed the president to bypass Senate confirmation while it was in recess, but the appointee could only serve for the length of the current Congress which is set to expire at year's end.
Pa. House is put into flux
The second-ranking Democrat in the state House lost his reelection bid yesterday, sending a pall over what otherwise was an impressive showing by the party in local races across the state. Read More
SOUTH DAKOTA ABORTION BAN FAILS
It would have been the toughest law in the nation. (AP) As of this morning, parental notification was losing in Oregon. (Oregon Live) And parental notification was losing in California. (LA Times)
TRADITIONAL MARRIAGE WINS IN 7 of 8 BATTLES
Though gay groups claim a moral victory for close contests. The Washington Post story said the Arizona result wasn’t pro-gay. From the story: “They were voting against a measure in the amendment that would have denied benefits to domestic partners," said Arizona State University analyst Bruce Merrill. (Washington Post) but the proposition in Arizona called for marriage to be defined as “between one man and one woman.” (Protect Marriage AZ) The Arizona vote was close. (Arizona Central) Another story notes “Marriage already is defined by state statute, making this amendment unnecessary.” (Arizona Daily Star)
SENATE UNDECIDED, YET PRECARIOUS
Tied 49-49, Republicans trailing in two races still undecided as of this morning. (USA Today) The Allen/Webb tally. (SBE) Montana tally. (CNN) Just after 10 p.m. Eastern, FOX news admitted exit polling told them Allen was going to get hammered. Yet at the time he was leading, with nearly 92 percent of the precincts in. At 10:45, Michael Barone predicted Allen's lead of nearly 30,000 votes with nearly 95 percent of the precincts reporting would drop to zero by the end of the evening. He was right.
HIDE YOUR WALLETS, DEMOCRATS NAB HOUSE
Gaining far more seats than needed. (LA Times) The LA Times fired off a gloating editorial that blamed Bush for the loss. (LA Times) Democrats took control of several state legislatures, too. (AP) Exit polling. (USA Today) Stocks likely won’t take the news well. (Financial Times) From Hewitt: And it is a wonderful day for new media, especially talk radio. For two years we have had to defend the Congressional gang that couldn't shoot straight. Now we get to play offense. (Townhall) Arizona voted heavily Democrat, even defeated JD Hayworth, but also voted in favor of English as the official language by a whopping 74.4 to 25.6. (Arizona Central)
Election Reaction
I spent most of the night doing reports for SRN news from the Santorum headquarters at the William Penn in Pittsburgh. While it was hard to see a good man lose, sometimes you learn more by losing rather than winning.
Sen. Santorum was humble and gracious and I know in time the rest of Pennsylvania will realize the we all lost last night. He once told me that elections are not about winning, it's about speaking the truth and letting the people decide. He did just that.
Overall, there is a silver lining in this election cloud. Democrats, who historically have opposed the sanctity of life, the sanctity of marriage and the public acknowledgement of God, none-the-less chose some moral conservatives among their ranks.
A good sign was the seven clear victories on state amendments defining marriage as between one man and one woman, and the likely passage of another. Yet we still face another serious challenge. Having Nancy Pelosi as speaker of the house-- the third person in constitutional succession to the president--who is a radical pro-abortion, pro- homosexual agenda, European-like secularist does make the mission of cultural moral reform difficult.
In the end, our confidence is not in parties, politicians or judges and justices, but in a God who "changes not."
Sen. Santorum was humble and gracious and I know in time the rest of Pennsylvania will realize the we all lost last night. He once told me that elections are not about winning, it's about speaking the truth and letting the people decide. He did just that.
Overall, there is a silver lining in this election cloud. Democrats, who historically have opposed the sanctity of life, the sanctity of marriage and the public acknowledgement of God, none-the-less chose some moral conservatives among their ranks.
A good sign was the seven clear victories on state amendments defining marriage as between one man and one woman, and the likely passage of another. Yet we still face another serious challenge. Having Nancy Pelosi as speaker of the house-- the third person in constitutional succession to the president--who is a radical pro-abortion, pro- homosexual agenda, European-like secularist does make the mission of cultural moral reform difficult.
In the end, our confidence is not in parties, politicians or judges and justices, but in a God who "changes not."
Evangelicalism: Reformation or Self-Destruction
Many of you have been waiting for me to comment on the Ted Haggard story. I hesitate to just react without knowing the facts. At the same time it's an issue that can not be ignored.
Sadly yet another evangelical leader, this time an immensely influential one, has made with headlines blaring words like, “gay”, “prostitute” and “drugs”. The information continues to change. A short time ago it was an allegation and an outright denial. Family values organizations were using terms like “leftist smear job” and “character assassination”. Now there is an admission by Rev. Haggard that he contacted a gay prostitute for a massage and some methamphetamine. The family values groups are growing quieter.
Colorado Springs has had its share of gay church follies this week. Earlier, another evangelical pastor across town from Rev. Haggard's church stepped down after announcing to his congregation that he is actually, “gay”. Congregations facing these situations are being ripped apart, believers disillusioned, the followers of Christ mocked and ridiculed by the world and the foundation of Christian claims to moral authority shattered. So what went wrong here? How did one of the nation's most visible pastors and outspoken defenders of biblical marriage end up with a gay prostitute, at the very least, for a massage? How does a spiritual leader with all of the years of ministry and presumably, Bible study behind him, end up telling the world's media that he bought meth from a gay hooker because he was “curious”, as though he was an unsaved adolescent, and not a very bright one at that?
Evangelicalism is where medieval Roman Catholicism was just before that portentous day when Luther pounded his Theses to the door at Wittenburg. Like Rome, today's evangelical Christianity has become about political and temporal power. Similarly, systems and methods have replaced confidence in the Gospel. Church growth and marketing courses now trump Bible classes. Like the Roman church, the gathering in of money to build bigger and better church is a top priority. In place of medieval church relics and idols, we now have media celebrities and icons to follow after. Rather than do the painstaking and difficult work of daily ministering to a lowly flock, pastors today style themselves after celebrities, lusting after their power and their influence and craving what they believe is “success”. Now the slick, polished icons are falling. The foundation that so many thought was biblical and solid is now shifting. The church as a conservative political task force is faltering.There is confusion in the ranks.
I can't say this enough, don't invest in man. Invest in God. If we can't run our own lives and churches with integrity, we as Christians have nothing to tell the world. There are thousands of people who thought they were followng God, that are now left scratching their heads and wondering what went wrong. Judgment begins at the house of God.
ELECTION DAY, 2006
Hugh Hewitt spoke with Rove yesterday. Rove, optimistic, said “I feel good about the Senate, and the House is a race by race, district by district battle, that when you add it up, I see us with a majority.” The transcript. (Townhall) A look at some key house races. (Strata-sphere) Gallup sees 1994. (Gallup) Novak predictions. (Human Events) Pelosi and her local newspaper are giddy. (San Francisco Chronicle) Democrat expectations were high and a moderate gain will be a failure. (NY Times) ABC News did a story on “conservative Christians” but only interviewed a man conservative Christians pretty much ignore these days, Pat Buchanan. (ABC News) Independent voters have been swayed by Kerry’s line critical of the intelligence of those in the military. (Washington Times) Mark Steyn called Kerry “A vain thin-skinned condescending blueblood with no sense of his own ridiculousness, Senator Nuancy Boy is secure in little else except his belief in his indispensability.” (Sun Times) Dennis Prager asks 23 questions that would be great for anyone voting today to ponder. They pertain to the question “Are you a liberal?” (DennisPrager)
Santorum 'Closing Hard'
U.S. Senator Rick Santorum has gained ground in his bid to win re-election,according to a new poll released Monday. The poll of 800 very likely generalelection voters, was conducted by McCulloch Research & Polling, an independentpolling company out of Chicago, on November 4-5.
Santorum's opponent, State Treasurer Bob Casey, Jr., led the incumbent Senator48.1-44.1%, according to the poll. "Senator Santorum has a history of closinghard at the end of his campaigns," said pollster Rod McCulloch. "It looks likethis campaign will be no different."
Treasurer Casey racks up his largest margin geographically in SoutheastPennsylvania, where he leads Senator Santorum 53.7%-37.1% in the regionencompassing Philadelphia and surrounding counties.
Senator Santorum, who racked up overwhelming majorities during his last electionin 2000 in Central and Northwestern Pennsylvania, is seeing some of thosevoters returning to the fold, according to the poll. The second term Senator leads in Central Pennsylvania (55.1-38.8%), South Central Pennsylvania(55.0-44.1%), Northeastern Pennsylvania (54.6%-38.1%), and NorthwesternPennsylvania (48.3%-41.4%).
In addition to the Philadelphia area, Treasurer Casey also leads Santorum in theSouthwestern Pennsylvania area surrounding Pittsburgh (49.5%-41.0%).
To close the gap with Casey, Santorum also needs his base of conservative voters to come home in large numbers. That appears to be happening, according to the poll, with 79.8% of Republican voters, and 91.0% of conservative Republican voters choosing the pro-life Senator over the pro-life State Treasurer.Santorum also leads among younger older voters over age 60 (46.0%-44.6%), andwhite voters (48.4%-43.9%). Casey leads among all other age groups, as well asamong voters who identify themselves as Independents (49.0%-39.3%), andAfrican-American voters (79.8%-14.6%).
The election, like many around the nation, will most likely be decided by whichparty can get their voters to the polls in higher numbers. While Santorumholds the big lead among Republicans, Casey offsets that by attracting asimilar percentage of Democratic voters (76.5%).
"This election is still Bob Casey, Jr.'s to lose," McCulloch said. "But Santorumhas now put himself in position for an upset."
Santorum's opponent, State Treasurer Bob Casey, Jr., led the incumbent Senator48.1-44.1%, according to the poll. "Senator Santorum has a history of closinghard at the end of his campaigns," said pollster Rod McCulloch. "It looks likethis campaign will be no different."
Treasurer Casey racks up his largest margin geographically in SoutheastPennsylvania, where he leads Senator Santorum 53.7%-37.1% in the regionencompassing Philadelphia and surrounding counties.
Senator Santorum, who racked up overwhelming majorities during his last electionin 2000 in Central and Northwestern Pennsylvania, is seeing some of thosevoters returning to the fold, according to the poll. The second term Senator leads in Central Pennsylvania (55.1-38.8%), South Central Pennsylvania(55.0-44.1%), Northeastern Pennsylvania (54.6%-38.1%), and NorthwesternPennsylvania (48.3%-41.4%).
In addition to the Philadelphia area, Treasurer Casey also leads Santorum in theSouthwestern Pennsylvania area surrounding Pittsburgh (49.5%-41.0%).
To close the gap with Casey, Santorum also needs his base of conservative voters to come home in large numbers. That appears to be happening, according to the poll, with 79.8% of Republican voters, and 91.0% of conservative Republican voters choosing the pro-life Senator over the pro-life State Treasurer.Santorum also leads among younger older voters over age 60 (46.0%-44.6%), andwhite voters (48.4%-43.9%). Casey leads among all other age groups, as well asamong voters who identify themselves as Independents (49.0%-39.3%), andAfrican-American voters (79.8%-14.6%).
The election, like many around the nation, will most likely be decided by whichparty can get their voters to the polls in higher numbers. While Santorumholds the big lead among Republicans, Casey offsets that by attracting asimilar percentage of Democratic voters (76.5%).
"This election is still Bob Casey, Jr.'s to lose," McCulloch said. "But Santorumhas now put himself in position for an upset."
Parents of fallen Soldiers Make Historic Visit to Iraq
A historic event took place in Iraq this weekend, but received virtually no media coverage beyond America's News Source (ANS), Canada Free Press, and a few Internet Blog sites.
In a first-ever trip of its kind, seven parents of U.S. soldiers killed in Iraq traveled there to meet with other U.S. military troops, government leaders, and the Iraqi people. The trip was sponsored by Move America Forward, which is a non-profit organization “committed to supporting America’s efforts to defeat terrorism and supporting the brave men and women of our Armed Forces.”
This group of parents will be in Iraq through November 10, showing support for American troops and their mission in Iraq. Absent of criticism of the United States, our foreign policy, and the current administration, there is apparently little interest by the corporate media. Seven parents, NO protests, NO sit-ins, NO blaming America, NO demands for impeachment, no actors, NO MEDIA.
Cindy Sheehan had had this to say:
In a first-ever trip of its kind, seven parents of U.S. soldiers killed in Iraq traveled there to meet with other U.S. military troops, government leaders, and the Iraqi people. The trip was sponsored by Move America Forward, which is a non-profit organization “committed to supporting America’s efforts to defeat terrorism and supporting the brave men and women of our Armed Forces.”
This group of parents will be in Iraq through November 10, showing support for American troops and their mission in Iraq. Absent of criticism of the United States, our foreign policy, and the current administration, there is apparently little interest by the corporate media. Seven parents, NO protests, NO sit-ins, NO blaming America, NO demands for impeachment, no actors, NO MEDIA.
Cindy Sheehan had had this to say:
TIME COVER: GOD VS. SCIENCE
From the story: Catholicism's Christoph Cardinal Schönborn has dubbed the most fervent of faith-challenging scientists followers of "scientism" or "evolutionism," since they hope science, beyond being a measure, can replace religion as a worldview and a touchstone.
Time
Time
Terri's Watch: KILLING DISABLED NEWBORNS CONSIDERED
Arguing “A very disabled child can mean a disabled family." Joy Delhanty, a professor of human genetics at University College London, said: "I think it is morally wrong to strive to keep alive babies that are going to suffer many months or years of ill-health."
Washington Times
Washington Times
SOLDIERS: LEAVING IRAQ WOULD BE DEVASTATING
From the story: "Take us out of that vacuum -- and it's on the edge now -- and boom, it would become a free-for-all," said Lt. Col. Mark Suich, who commands the 1st Squadron, 89th Cavalry Regiment just south of Baghdad. "It would be a raw contention for power. That would be the bloodiest piece of this war."
Washington Post
Washington Post
HAGGARD: “I AM A DECEIVER AND A LIAR”
POLLS: GOP CUTTING DEMOCRAT ADVANTAGE
Pew has Democrats with a 4 point margin among likely voters. (Pew) Gallup shows the gap has narrowed, but concludes Democrats will still win enough seats to take the house. (Gallup) Again, turnout seems to be the key. (Washington Times) Another story warns, a Democratic win could turn into “payback time.” (National Post) Ken Mehlman makes his case. (USA Today) The final polls from 2004 were wrong in favor of Kerry. (Real Clear Politics) The polls today. (Real Clear Politics)
Mitt Romney Courts Evangelicals
Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney is meeting with evangelical leaders in an attempt to allay concerns about his faith as he ponders a presidential candidacy.
According to the Boston Globe, Romney met at his home last Thursday with about a dozen evangelicals, including conservative activist Gary Bauer, president of the group American Values, and Richard Land, a prominent leader in the Southern Baptist Convention.
Two weeks earlier, Romney met with about a dozen Baptist pastors at a private club in Columbia, S.C. On Thursday he met with more Christian leaders at an activist's home in Greenville, S.C.
According to the Globe, the meetings have touched on several themes, participants say, but two topics being discussed are Romney's religious beliefs and how he should address his faith as the campaign progresses.
Romney's meetings with evangelicals, which are reminiscent of a similar effort by President Bush before he ran for president in 2000, take place as groups and individuals separate from Romney's political team are trying to improve the public perception of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Polls indicate that the religion is widely misunderstood and viewed skeptically by many in the United States.
WARNING: BAD IDEA IN PROGRESS!!!!!!
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