The Minuteman Civil Defense Corps is planning to protest Senator Specter’s presence at the Republican State Committee being held this weekend in Hershey, PA. They are protesting Specter’s “support of illegal aliens and amnesty”.
Senator Specter demonstrates the “fissure” within the GOP probably more than any other Republican. As a Republican liberal, Specter is popular in the Philadelphia suburbs, but has been practically booed off of the stage when appearing at Republican campaign events in western PA.
Broadcaster Freedom Act Passes In U.S. House
(The Hill): The House voted overwhelmingly Thursday to prohibit the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) from using taxpayer dollars to impose the Fairness Doctrine on broadcasters who feature conservative radio hosts such as Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity.
By a vote of 309-115, lawmakers amended the Financial Services and General Government appropriations bill to bar the FCC from requiring broadcasters to balance conservative content with liberal programming such as Air America. Read more...
A surprising number of House Democrats joined Republicans in taking a shot against the Fairness Doctrine, despite some heavy support by Nancy Pelosi and Democrat Senators. Perhaps their phones are still melted over calls against the Immigration Bill, and they needed a break.
By a vote of 309-115, lawmakers amended the Financial Services and General Government appropriations bill to bar the FCC from requiring broadcasters to balance conservative content with liberal programming such as Air America. Read more...
A surprising number of House Democrats joined Republicans in taking a shot against the Fairness Doctrine, despite some heavy support by Nancy Pelosi and Democrat Senators. Perhaps their phones are still melted over calls against the Immigration Bill, and they needed a break.
NEARLY ONE IN FIVE MAKING SIX FIGURES LIVES PAYCHECK TO PAYCHECK
An expert believes “overspending remains the top culprit.” Gee, ya think?
I was just talking about this last night. People today have confused "pleasure" with true "happiness". Pleasure requires you to continue an act to remain happy. That means you must continually "feed the monster" to maintain a feeling of pleasure that can not be maintained indefinitely. Happiness remains and comes from the one true source.
USA Today
I was just talking about this last night. People today have confused "pleasure" with true "happiness". Pleasure requires you to continue an act to remain happy. That means you must continually "feed the monster" to maintain a feeling of pleasure that can not be maintained indefinitely. Happiness remains and comes from the one true source.
USA Today
VIEW OF U.S. FAVORABLE IN MAJORITY OF COUNTRIES POLLED
Awww..... and we worked so hard to be the evil empire. Though this story’s headline focused on the fact that “Distrust of the United States has intensified across the world.” Key paragraph from the story: "Anti-Americanism since 2002 has deepened, but it hasn't really widened," said Andrew Kohut, director of the Pew Global Attitudes Project. "It has worsened among America's European allies and is very, very bad in the Muslim world. But there is still a favorable view of the United States in many African countries, as well as in 'New Europe' and the Far East."
Herald Tribune
Herald Tribune
KERRY BACKS “FAIRNESS DOCTRINE” TO BRING “BALANCE”
From the story: he said conservatives have been able to "squeeze down and squeeze out opinion of opposing views. I think it has been a very important transition in the imbalance of our public dialog."
Broadcasting and Cable
Broadcasting and Cable
SCIENTISTS: WE CAN MAKE EMBRYONIC STEM CELLS FROM UNFERTILIZED EGGS
The story notes “Ethicists disagreed on whether the strategy would avoid the long-standing ethical objections to creating embryonic stem cells by other means.” Later in the story: George Daley, a scientist at the Harvard Stem Cell Institute, called the work interesting. "It's a new type of embryonic stem cell line from a different kind of embryo," he said. "We just don't know whether these cells will be as good as embryonic stem cells from naturally fertilized embryos."
FOX News
FOX News
Spirit of Grace 2
A + B = C
A) The Holy Spirit is the "Spirit of Grace" (see Hebrews 10:29).
B) The Holy Spirit is the "Spirit of Truth" (see John 16:13).
C) The Holy Spirit is the "Spirit of Grace & Truth." Which tends to make sense given that the "Holy Spirit" is God, and Jesus is God, and Jesus is "full of grace and truth" (see John 1:14), and "grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ" (see John 1:17).
Do you see it? Grace AND truth. The grace of God makes it possible for us to receive the truth of God. Grace without truth is half the gospel, which is NO GOSPEL. The preacher who teaches grace without truth proclaims a FALSE GOSPEL. "There are some who...want to distort the gospel of Christ" (Galatians 1:7).
Again, the "Satanic spirit of grace" that the devil and his servants promote (see 2 Corinthians 11:13-14) is a "grace" without truth. The "grace" of Satan is a literal "insult to the Spirit of Grace" (see Hebrews 10:29).
"But even if we, or an angel from heaven,
should preach to you a gospel contrary to what
we have preached to you, he is to be accursed."
Galatians 1:8
We best understand the difference.
A) The Holy Spirit is the "Spirit of Grace" (see Hebrews 10:29).
B) The Holy Spirit is the "Spirit of Truth" (see John 16:13).
C) The Holy Spirit is the "Spirit of Grace & Truth." Which tends to make sense given that the "Holy Spirit" is God, and Jesus is God, and Jesus is "full of grace and truth" (see John 1:14), and "grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ" (see John 1:17).
Do you see it? Grace AND truth. The grace of God makes it possible for us to receive the truth of God. Grace without truth is half the gospel, which is NO GOSPEL. The preacher who teaches grace without truth proclaims a FALSE GOSPEL. "There are some who...want to distort the gospel of Christ" (Galatians 1:7).
Again, the "Satanic spirit of grace" that the devil and his servants promote (see 2 Corinthians 11:13-14) is a "grace" without truth. The "grace" of Satan is a literal "insult to the Spirit of Grace" (see Hebrews 10:29).
"But even if we, or an angel from heaven,
should preach to you a gospel contrary to what
we have preached to you, he is to be accursed."
Galatians 1:8
We best understand the difference.
Gun Control Or Else, PA Democrats Warn
Anger about the lack of action on gun-control bills boiled over onto the House floor yesterday, with several African American Democrats from Philadelphia vowing to hold up passage of the state budget unless their bills are considered. Read more…
The state budget negotiations are already bogged down over the governor’s request for a half dozen new tax increases. The Democrat House Majority Leader lives in a rural district and barely survived last year’s election - he most likely will not touch any gun control legislation. This issue throws another wrench into an already contentious budget debate.
The state budget negotiations are already bogged down over the governor’s request for a half dozen new tax increases. The Democrat House Majority Leader lives in a rural district and barely survived last year’s election - he most likely will not touch any gun control legislation. This issue throws another wrench into an already contentious budget debate.
Broadcaster Freedom Act
(Family Research Council): To preempt liberals from resurrecting the Fairness Doctrine, Rep. Mike Pence (R-Ind.) has introduced the "Broadcaster Freedom Act." The bill strips the FCC of its authority to reinstitute the Fairness Doctrine, effectively codifying the status quo and protecting free speech.
If the left wants equal time to express its views on the radio or television, they have the liberty to do so by starting their own programs and shows. In fact, in the larger media world including broadcast TV, public broadcasting, and print, the left predominates. The challenge for them is getting people to listen. To seek parity in talk radio by restraining the freedom of others is neither free, nor equal, nor fair.
If the left wants equal time to express its views on the radio or television, they have the liberty to do so by starting their own programs and shows. In fact, in the larger media world including broadcast TV, public broadcasting, and print, the left predominates. The challenge for them is getting people to listen. To seek parity in talk radio by restraining the freedom of others is neither free, nor equal, nor fair.
Prayer Request
PowerBlog! is an interesting crossroads of Christians and music fans. Some of the readers come from the website of the oldies show I do for Rock-it radio. This involves both groups.
I was sent a email from the son of longtime music artist Jimme Rodgers. Some of you may not remember him but I ask you to read the letter and keep them in your prayers.
Hello Everyone!
My name is Michael Rodgers. My fathers name is Jimmie Rodgers. Some of you might remember him from his musical career that has now spanned fifty years. In 1957 he recorded a song called "Honeycomb" and followed it up with a string of hit records totaling 25 top ten singles,eighty million records sold worldwide and concert appearances throughout the world.
Through all of that he carried himself with grace, charm and an incredible sense of humor and style. In 1967 when he was 33 years old my father was injured in what is now known as a road rage incident. He suffered severe head injuries and underwent three brain surgeries.During one of those surgeries he lost 28 square inches of his skull on the right side of his head. Since 1968 he has carried what is considered to be the largest steel plate ever implanted in someone's head.
It took Dad nearly 15 years to recover from the last surgery in 1968 as he had to learn to walk,speak and regain his motor skills. He was not suppose to live more than 10 years with this steel plate in his body as the body continually tries to reject these kind of implants. Over the years as he has gotten older the skin on his scalp has gotten thinner and the remaining bone continually cuts his scalp. If left this way this situation will eventually lead to his death.
Over the last 15 years he has had over 60 different skin graphs and other surgeries. The last such surgery was 18 months ago and it nearly killed him. He now has a hole in his head the size of a half dollar and it has been this way since February.
My dad is tough. He is the definition of the word. He has avoided what is about to take place and tried everything imaginable to live with the constant pain and discomfort and he has now made a decision that will define what will be the rest of his life.On Thursday June 28, 2007 a team of Brain Surgeons in Hot Springs Arkansas will remove the steel plate that he has carried with him for 39 years. They plan to remove the outer layer of skin and lift the plate away from the position it has held covering the outer layer of his brain. If successful they will replace the plate with a new material that has been developed that will recreate the skull bone and will not be rejected by the body.
If this surgery works he will have the chance to live what is left of his life without pain. Dad has made the decision. The Doctors feel confident that all will be fine and we are stepping out on faith that this is the right course of action.
As someone who some of you know to be a fairly private person I am opening up to you about a very serious family issue. From now until the end of next week and beyond if possible I kindly ask you all to please do the following.
* Please pray for my father that his surgery and recovery will be successful and that his health will be completely restored.* Please pray for the team of Doctors and Nurses that will be performing the surgery so that they might have guidance and wisdom during this time.* Please pray for our family that we might have strength and courage to face the days ahead in helping Dad with his recovery.* Please put my father Jimmie Rodgers on your prayer lists at church or through an email request such as this one. (Feel free to copy and send).All of us are connected in this life in some way. I believe there is power in prayer and power in positive thought. I believe that together all of us through prayer and positive energy and thinking can help that to happen.Thank you all for being a part of and playing a part (large or small) in my life.
Name: Jimmie Rodgers
Date of Surgery: June 28, 2007
My family and I thank you. And my father thanks you and will be most appreciative to you for your thoughts and prayers.
God Bless,
Michael Rodgers
The Spirit of Grace
When Jesus was preparing to leave the earth and take His rightful place at the right hand of the throne of the Father He spoke of the coming Holy Spirit. He said,
This "Helper," the Holy Spirit, is the "Spirit of Grace" (see Hebrews 10:29). And Jesus informs us of the "first-works" of this Spirit of Grace. From this direct teaching of Jesus we learn that:
-Grace without the conviction of sin is nothing more than a demonic doctrine (see John 5:14; 8:11).
-Grace without righteousness is...UNRIGHTEOUSNESS. "We have received grace...to bring about the obedience of faith" (Romans 1:5; see also, Romans 16:26).
-Grace without the awareness of judgement is the epitomy of delusion.
Indeed, the Spirit of Grace is one and the same Holy Spirit that Jesus sent to "convict the world concerning sin, righteousness, and judgement" (see above). Ironically, the "Satanic spirit of grace" that the devil and his servants promote (see 2 Corinthians 11:13-14) is a "grace" devoid of all three; conviction, righteousness and judgement. The "grace" of Satan is a literal "insult to the Spirit of Grace" (see Hebrews 10:29).
We best understand the difference.
"I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I go away;
for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you;
but if I go, I will send Him to you. And He, when He comes,
will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgement."
John 16:7-8
for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you;
but if I go, I will send Him to you. And He, when He comes,
will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgement."
John 16:7-8
This "Helper," the Holy Spirit, is the "Spirit of Grace" (see Hebrews 10:29). And Jesus informs us of the "first-works" of this Spirit of Grace. From this direct teaching of Jesus we learn that:
-Grace without the conviction of sin is nothing more than a demonic doctrine (see John 5:14; 8:11).
-Grace without righteousness is...UNRIGHTEOUSNESS. "We have received grace...to bring about the obedience of faith" (Romans 1:5; see also, Romans 16:26).
-Grace without the awareness of judgement is the epitomy of delusion.
Indeed, the Spirit of Grace is one and the same Holy Spirit that Jesus sent to "convict the world concerning sin, righteousness, and judgement" (see above). Ironically, the "Satanic spirit of grace" that the devil and his servants promote (see 2 Corinthians 11:13-14) is a "grace" devoid of all three; conviction, righteousness and judgement. The "grace" of Satan is a literal "insult to the Spirit of Grace" (see Hebrews 10:29).
We best understand the difference.
Terri's Watch: Don't Unplug Him Yet
MAN IN COMA AWAKES WEEKS AFTER WIFE WANTED LIFE SUPPORT STOPPED!
From the story: Jesse Ramirez Jr.'s awakening, which friends called "a miracle," occurred after his sister, parents and other relatives went to court and obtained an emergency order for feeding and hydration tubes to be reinserted, reversing a directive given by his wife, Rebecca Ramirez.
Sounds strangely familiar.
USA Today
From the story: Jesse Ramirez Jr.'s awakening, which friends called "a miracle," occurred after his sister, parents and other relatives went to court and obtained an emergency order for feeding and hydration tubes to be reinserted, reversing a directive given by his wife, Rebecca Ramirez.
Sounds strangely familiar.
USA Today
Oh those Gas Price$ in IRAN
From the story: Despite its huge energy reserves, Iran lacks refining capacity and it imports about 40% of its petrol. Iran has a large budget deficit largely caused by fuel subsidies and the inflation rate is estimated at 20-30%. The BBC Tehran correspondent Frances Harrison says Iran is trying to rein in fuel consumption over fears of possible UN sanctions over its nuclear programme.
BBC
BBC
CIA COMES CLEAN
As far as we know, acknowledging “secrets from the 1950s until the early '70s shows how the agency repeatedly violated its own charter.” From the story: Gen. Michael Hayden, (Local Pittsburgh Guy and the CIA director) said the agency has learned "from its history" and moved beyond the abuses detailed in the report. "We will find in the press coverage of today's release reminders of some things the CIA should not have done," Hayden said in a note to agency employees. "The documents truly do provide a glimpse of a very different era and a very different agency."
USA Today
USA Today
GIULIANI: CLINTON DIDN’T RESPOND TO TERRORIST ATTACKS
Rudy is in Pittsburgh today. I'm hoping he runs into a real Catholic that can set him straight on the abortion issue. Rudy, if you read this give me a call. I'll help you out.
From the story: Giuliani argued that Clinton treated the World Trade Center bombing as a criminal act instead of a terrorist attack, calling it "a big mistake" that emboldened other strikes on the Khobar Towers housing complex in Saudi Arabia, in Kenya and Tanzania and later on the USS Cole while docked in Yemen in 2000. "The United States government, then President Clinton, did not respond," Giuliani said. "(Osama) bin Laden declared war on us. We didn't hear it."
USA Today
From the story: Giuliani argued that Clinton treated the World Trade Center bombing as a criminal act instead of a terrorist attack, calling it "a big mistake" that emboldened other strikes on the Khobar Towers housing complex in Saudi Arabia, in Kenya and Tanzania and later on the USS Cole while docked in Yemen in 2000. "The United States government, then President Clinton, did not respond," Giuliani said. "(Osama) bin Laden declared war on us. We didn't hear it."
USA Today
Pa. Senate Votes For Smoking Ban Without Health Groups’ Support
(AP) — The state Senate voted Tuesday to ban smoking in most of Pennsylvania's buildings, defying a coalition of health associations that pulled its support because the bill would extend partial or full exemptions to private clubs, bars and casinos. Smoking would be banned in most public places and work places, including arenas, stores, restaurants, convention halls and shopping malls. Read more...
Call me cynical, but what would the reaction of these senators who support the smoking ban be if Philip Morris decided to stop selling its tobacco products in PA? In theory, they should be relieved, as there would be one less "health risk".
But most likey, the tax revenue drop off would send these same senators into panic mode. Not understanding the free market and the fact that it is the seller’s prerogative to sell or not to sell its product in certain markets, odds are that these same senators would draft legislation to “force” Philip Morris to sell its products in PA.
Call me cynical, but what would the reaction of these senators who support the smoking ban be if Philip Morris decided to stop selling its tobacco products in PA? In theory, they should be relieved, as there would be one less "health risk".
But most likey, the tax revenue drop off would send these same senators into panic mode. Not understanding the free market and the fact that it is the seller’s prerogative to sell or not to sell its product in certain markets, odds are that these same senators would draft legislation to “force” Philip Morris to sell its products in PA.
Welcome to church, enjoy the show
I was talking to a guy who for many years attended an area evangelical church. He has since become Catholic. Something he said struck me. He said, "In the Catholic Church you have an alter, in my old church we had a stage".
I never really thought about it that way but it's true. If there is a stage, then who is the star? The quiet contemplation and space necessary for worship has been jetissoned in most modern evangelical ceremonies.
I believe many people are confused when it comes to what what worship is, was and should be. The charismatic delusion has almost completely taken over the churches. "Christian" rock music might appeal to some young people but it does nothing for them spiritually. When we confuse entertainment with true worship we are lost. The church choir, organ, and piano have been replaced by praise teams, bands, and drum set.
Some churches imitate pop music concerts in the name of “praise and worship”. Lights flash, videos fill the screen, singers engage in “liturgical dancing”. The music is loud and its beat is strongly similar to that of secular music. Worshippers wave their arms in the air and applaud.
When the emphasis is on audio-video stimulation, then God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit become “excuses” to indulge the senses in “worship” that does not lead to a higher plan of godliness, spirituality, and Christian maturity. In this environment people become totally enamored by the phenomenon of “worship” rather than being enthusiastic about serving God. The worship “experience” is their focus rather than the work of God which is by faith.
There is a fixation on worship experience. The result is persistent immaturity and carnality among Christians. Something dysfunctional is happening. Yet it is impossible to see it from within the Christian bubble. I have had people tell me they were not able to participate in works of service because their schedule is filled up with praise concerts.
Don't get me wrong. People should enjoy going to church. Praise, joy, and thanksgiving should be a delight. Sermons should be motivational and life-changing. We should enjoy God’s Word. We should be uplifted. We should be inspired to grow, develop, and become more productive in God’s kingdom.
Still the assembly should not substitute audio visual-stimulation and sensational excitement for genuine worship. Bright lights and hyper-emotions should not replace the delight we have in the Word of the Lord. If we need fast, loud music, stimulating videos and liturgical dancing to get people to church, then we are abusing the assembly. If this is “entertainment”, then the church should not be entertaining. After all, who are you going to worship?
The church needs to strike the middle-ground between sleepy boredom and excessive sensual stimulation. We need to create encouraging churches that do not run to excess to achieve that goal.
Some people are (by nature) more emotionally expressive than others. Some are more rational-intellectual than others. 1 Corinthians 14:40 does not outlaw emotional expressiveness, neither does it mandate a highly subdued and sleepy assembly. We can have decency and order in the middle-ground where people can be expressive and/or quiet. 1 Corinthians 14:40 does not eliminate the possibility of finding a moderate solution to the problems we face in today’s world.
I never really thought about it that way but it's true. If there is a stage, then who is the star? The quiet contemplation and space necessary for worship has been jetissoned in most modern evangelical ceremonies.
I believe many people are confused when it comes to what what worship is, was and should be. The charismatic delusion has almost completely taken over the churches. "Christian" rock music might appeal to some young people but it does nothing for them spiritually. When we confuse entertainment with true worship we are lost. The church choir, organ, and piano have been replaced by praise teams, bands, and drum set.
Some churches imitate pop music concerts in the name of “praise and worship”. Lights flash, videos fill the screen, singers engage in “liturgical dancing”. The music is loud and its beat is strongly similar to that of secular music. Worshippers wave their arms in the air and applaud.
When the emphasis is on audio-video stimulation, then God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit become “excuses” to indulge the senses in “worship” that does not lead to a higher plan of godliness, spirituality, and Christian maturity. In this environment people become totally enamored by the phenomenon of “worship” rather than being enthusiastic about serving God. The worship “experience” is their focus rather than the work of God which is by faith.
There is a fixation on worship experience. The result is persistent immaturity and carnality among Christians. Something dysfunctional is happening. Yet it is impossible to see it from within the Christian bubble. I have had people tell me they were not able to participate in works of service because their schedule is filled up with praise concerts.
Don't get me wrong. People should enjoy going to church. Praise, joy, and thanksgiving should be a delight. Sermons should be motivational and life-changing. We should enjoy God’s Word. We should be uplifted. We should be inspired to grow, develop, and become more productive in God’s kingdom.
Still the assembly should not substitute audio visual-stimulation and sensational excitement for genuine worship. Bright lights and hyper-emotions should not replace the delight we have in the Word of the Lord. If we need fast, loud music, stimulating videos and liturgical dancing to get people to church, then we are abusing the assembly. If this is “entertainment”, then the church should not be entertaining. After all, who are you going to worship?
The church needs to strike the middle-ground between sleepy boredom and excessive sensual stimulation. We need to create encouraging churches that do not run to excess to achieve that goal.
Some people are (by nature) more emotionally expressive than others. Some are more rational-intellectual than others. 1 Corinthians 14:40 does not outlaw emotional expressiveness, neither does it mandate a highly subdued and sleepy assembly. We can have decency and order in the middle-ground where people can be expressive and/or quiet. 1 Corinthians 14:40 does not eliminate the possibility of finding a moderate solution to the problems we face in today’s world.
GERMANY TURNS AWAY TOM CRUISE OVER SCIENTOLOGY
He wanted to film a movie there about an assassination attempt on Hitler. From the story: Defense Ministry spokesman Harald Kammerbauer said the film makers "will not be allowed to film at German military sites if Count Stauffenberg is played by Tom Cruise, who has publicly professed to being a member of the Scientology cult".
Reuters
Reuters
USA TODAY: SUPREME COURT UNDERCUTTING PRECEDENTS
The story then says “How far the conservative wing will go in reshaping the law will be tested again this week in one of the most significant cases of the 2006-2007 term. The question is whether students' race can be a factor in making school assignments to counteract racially segregated housing patterns.”
USA today
USA today
People Born Homosexual, Say Local School Officials
The Montgomery County Board of Education in Maryland has accomplished what science and medicine have been unable to confirm, simply declaring in its newly approved school curriculum for children that some babies are born homosexual. Read more…
Who knows, perhaps the Montgomery County Board of Education can also settle other raging scientific debates!
Who knows, perhaps the Montgomery County Board of Education can also settle other raging scientific debates!
Immigration Bill Showdown
From the story: The White House says it has the votes to resurrect the immigration bill on the Senate floor today, though enough senators said they may change their minds in other votes later this week to leave the bill's ultimate fate in doubt.
To pass the Senate, the (Immigration) bill must earn 60 votes today, survive a series of amendments, earn 60 votes in a follow-up vote likely to come Thursday, and then pass with majority support — all difficult tests on an issue that deeply divides both parties, and American voters. Read more…
Meanwhile…Immigration Dispute Roils Conservative Radio
(CNSNews.com) - President Bush's immigration bill has created a rift between right-wing talk radio and Republican politicians that threatens to rupture the conservative coalition, according to a nationally syndicated radio host.Talk radio criticism of Republicans escalated after Sen. Trent Lott (R-Miss) criticized the medium's role in opposing the legislation."Talk radio is running America," Lott said. "We have to deal with that problem." Read more…
Some Senators from the left and right want to “fix” talk radio, especially since losing the first round of votes on the immigration bill. Sorry Trent and Barbara, the market place of ideas and free speech won this debate, you both know that adding additional NPR affiliates won’t solve your perceived “problem”.
To pass the Senate, the (Immigration) bill must earn 60 votes today, survive a series of amendments, earn 60 votes in a follow-up vote likely to come Thursday, and then pass with majority support — all difficult tests on an issue that deeply divides both parties, and American voters. Read more…
Meanwhile…Immigration Dispute Roils Conservative Radio
(CNSNews.com) - President Bush's immigration bill has created a rift between right-wing talk radio and Republican politicians that threatens to rupture the conservative coalition, according to a nationally syndicated radio host.Talk radio criticism of Republicans escalated after Sen. Trent Lott (R-Miss) criticized the medium's role in opposing the legislation."Talk radio is running America," Lott said. "We have to deal with that problem." Read more…
Some Senators from the left and right want to “fix” talk radio, especially since losing the first round of votes on the immigration bill. Sorry Trent and Barbara, the market place of ideas and free speech won this debate, you both know that adding additional NPR affiliates won’t solve your perceived “problem”.
Time Flies
Here I am typing my first post of the day at about 5pm. We have a brand new on air system being installed at the radio station so in dealing with the major overhaul time gets chewed up fast.
My thanks to Jim Powers for the new posts and I hope to get back at it in 24 hours.
My thanks to Jim Powers for the new posts and I hope to get back at it in 24 hours.
Victory for Teacher Told to Pay Dues or Change Religions
(CNSNews.com) - A legal challenge mounted by a teacher in southern Ohio, who said a union official told her to pay dues or change religions, has prompted a federal district court to strike down a state law that allowed only those public employees who belonged to certain denominations the right to claim a religious objection to paying union dues.
….the lifelong Catholic and opponent of abortion on demand had always declined membership in the Ohio Education Association, a state chapter of the National Education Association, because she is unhappy with the NEA's stance on abortion. Read more…
In round numbers – 1.3 million abortions per year means that with an average class size of 25 students, 52,000 teachers are NOT needed this year alone. Can anyone imagine any other union advocating a policy that works against their own union membership in this way?
….the lifelong Catholic and opponent of abortion on demand had always declined membership in the Ohio Education Association, a state chapter of the National Education Association, because she is unhappy with the NEA's stance on abortion. Read more…
In round numbers – 1.3 million abortions per year means that with an average class size of 25 students, 52,000 teachers are NOT needed this year alone. Can anyone imagine any other union advocating a policy that works against their own union membership in this way?
Speech Police
From George Will: “Marriage is the foundation of the natural family and sustains family values.” That sentence is inflammatory, perhaps even a hate crime.
At least it is in Oakland, Calif. That city's government says those words italicized here constitute something akin to hate speech, and can be proscribed from the government's open e-mail system and employee bulletin board. “….it was predictable that speech suppression would become an instrument of cultural combat, used to settle ideological scores and advance political agendas by silencing adversaries.” Read more…
As the article states, there was no problem for those advocating gay rights in advertising their political views and activities on the city's e-mail system and bulletin board. No surprises here, as "progressives" openly embrace “Selective” free speech codes .
At least it is in Oakland, Calif. That city's government says those words italicized here constitute something akin to hate speech, and can be proscribed from the government's open e-mail system and employee bulletin board. “….it was predictable that speech suppression would become an instrument of cultural combat, used to settle ideological scores and advance political agendas by silencing adversaries.” Read more…
As the article states, there was no problem for those advocating gay rights in advertising their political views and activities on the city's e-mail system and bulletin board. No surprises here, as "progressives" openly embrace “Selective” free speech codes .
Sex, Lies and Failure Rates
The Administration for Children and Families (ACF), a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, has released a report on how a number of "comprehensive" sexual education (CSE) programs being promoted to our youth are heavy on sex and light on education.
The study, conducted by medical professionals, looked closely at some of the most common CSE curricula currently in use in an attempt to see if the content was truthful and truly comprehensive.
A cursory review of the study shows that the materials distributed by the "comprehensive" programs mention abstinence only 321 times. In contrast the materials mention usage of condoms 2,763 times - and only mention condom failure rates a total of 23 times!
The study showed these programs have very little impact on increasing condom use among children, and even less impact in delaying sexual activities - the latter being no surprise considering the focus on condoms instead of abstaining.
Today Dr. John Agwunobi, HHS Assistant Secretary for Health, and Dan Schneider, HHS Assistant Secretary for ACF, are announcing a campaign which is designed to encourage parents to talk to their kids about sex, their values, and how delaying sexual activity until marriage can contribute to their future happiness and success. This campaign should be applauded for recognizing that any true education for children must come from their parents and promote the family.
The study, conducted by medical professionals, looked closely at some of the most common CSE curricula currently in use in an attempt to see if the content was truthful and truly comprehensive.
A cursory review of the study shows that the materials distributed by the "comprehensive" programs mention abstinence only 321 times. In contrast the materials mention usage of condoms 2,763 times - and only mention condom failure rates a total of 23 times!
The study showed these programs have very little impact on increasing condom use among children, and even less impact in delaying sexual activities - the latter being no surprise considering the focus on condoms instead of abstaining.
Today Dr. John Agwunobi, HHS Assistant Secretary for Health, and Dan Schneider, HHS Assistant Secretary for ACF, are announcing a campaign which is designed to encourage parents to talk to their kids about sex, their values, and how delaying sexual activity until marriage can contribute to their future happiness and success. This campaign should be applauded for recognizing that any true education for children must come from their parents and promote the family.
HIGH COURT TO DECIDE IF GIRL CAN WEAR “PURITY RING”
The school insists the ring breaks uniform rules. The story says the 16 year old argues “Sikh and Muslim pupils can wear bangles and headscarves in class.”
BBC
BBC
WEBSITES HELP PARENTS SEEKING GENETICALLY PERFECT CHILDREN
David Brooks notes “These sites take sex and turn it into shopping. They allow you to browse through page after page of donor profiles, comparing weight, noses, personality and what one site calls “tannability.” Also from the story: A recent ad in the Chicago Maroon at the University of Chicago offered $35,000 for a Chicago egg and stipulated, “You must be very healthy, very intelligent and very attractive, and most of all, very happy. Liberal political views and athletic ability are pluses.”
The Day
The Day
AUSTRALIANS TURNED AWAY IRANIANS TRYING TO CAPTURE SAILORS
Similar to the British situation, only they had no intention of surrendering. A BBC security correspondent noted “the British should be embarrassed about the incident but the issue was whether military intelligence had been passed on. The point of this story is not that the Aussies were fantastically brave and the Brits were a bunch of cowards, although I'm sure some people will interpret [it that way].”
SMH
SMH
MEDIA GIVING LEANS FAR LEFT
As one might expect. The story claims “with polls showing the public losing faith in the ability of journalists to give the news straight up, some major newspapers and TV networks are clamping down. They now prohibit all political activity — aside from voting — no matter whether the journalist covers baseball or proofreads the obituaries.” (MSNBC) A list of giving. (MSNBC)
TOP DEMOCRATS UNCOMFORTABLE WITH MOORE’S “SICKO”
Story claims “Sens. Hillary Rodham Clinton of New York and Barack Obama of Illinois and former Sen. John Edwards of South Carolina all have staked out positions sharply at odds with Moore's approach. But none of them is eager to have that fact dragged into the spotlight.” (LA Times) This, as liberals seek to control America. (Washington Times)
HILLARY AND BOXER DISCUSS LEGISLATIVE HELP TO “BALANCE” TALK RADIO
According to Senator James Inhofe, who told a host the pair complained “There’s got to be a legislative fix to this.” He then said “This is common chatter.”
Daily Motion
Daily Motion
Senators Clinton and Boxer Want to “Fix” Talk Radio
BREITBART.TV: Appearing on John Ziegler's evening show on KFI 640 AM in LA, U.S. Senator James Inhofe says he overheard Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-NY) and Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA) saying they want a "legislative fix" for talk radio. Click here.
Watch for this argument to curtail 1st Amendment freedoms to be promoted in terms of “reform”.
Watch for this argument to curtail 1st Amendment freedoms to be promoted in terms of “reform”.
House Votes To Restore Overseas Contraceptive Aid
(CNSNews.com) - To the dismay of pro-life groups, the House of Representatives on Thursday passed a bill 223-201 that would provide U.S.-donated contraceptives to overseas family planning groups, including those that offer abortions.
Under the so-called Mexico City Policy, introduced in 1984 by the Reagan administration, nongovernmental organizations could receive U.S. funds only if they agreed not to perform or promote abortion as a family-planning method in foreign countries.The 1984 policy was rescinded by the Clinton administration -- and reinstated by President George W. Bush in 2001. Read more...
Locally, Congressmen English and Altmire voted "no" on the Lowey Amendment rescinding the Mexico City Policy and both voted "yes" on the failed Smith Amendment to preserve the Mexico City Policy.
Under the so-called Mexico City Policy, introduced in 1984 by the Reagan administration, nongovernmental organizations could receive U.S. funds only if they agreed not to perform or promote abortion as a family-planning method in foreign countries.The 1984 policy was rescinded by the Clinton administration -- and reinstated by President George W. Bush in 2001. Read more...
Locally, Congressmen English and Altmire voted "no" on the Lowey Amendment rescinding the Mexico City Policy and both voted "yes" on the failed Smith Amendment to preserve the Mexico City Policy.
VATICAN OVERTURNS JOE KENNEDY’S ANNULMENT
Come on. Even if you are not Catholic you have to cheer the Vatican on this one. Kennedy had the 12-year marriage annulled “to validate his second marriage to his former legislative aide Beth Kelly in the eyes of the Church.”
Why? Nothing elese he does is valid in the eyes of the Church.
Boston Herald
Why? Nothing elese he does is valid in the eyes of the Church.
Boston Herald
JUDGE BANS THE WORD “RAPE” IN RAPE TRIAL
Along with the words “sexual assault, victim, assailant.” Another wacko Judge.
So I guess you have to say something like: "The poor person in handcuffs experienced a communication breakdown when the women he was attempting to befriend cruely refused his sexual gift offer and in the midst of undue stress caused him to momentarily forget the definition of the words 'No you scumbag get off of me'"
Slate
So I guess you have to say something like: "The poor person in handcuffs experienced a communication breakdown when the women he was attempting to befriend cruely refused his sexual gift offer and in the midst of undue stress caused him to momentarily forget the definition of the words 'No you scumbag get off of me'"
Slate
CONFIDENCE IN CONGRESS DROPS TO ALL TIME LOW
Now down to a stunning 14 percent. It landed at the bottom of a list of 16 institutions, managing to fall below HMO’s. That takes some work to do.
Gallup
Gallup
OBAMA’S FAR LEFT CHURCH
Story notes “The UCC prides itself as being "out front" on social justice issues, battling civil rights, women's rights and gay rights ahead of the mainstream. One Sunday hymnal equally celebrates male and female images of God. Later from the story: Obama and his wife, Michelle, are members of Trinity United Church of Christ, a South Side church led by the Rev. Jeremiah Wright Jr., who teaches members about their African heritage and preaches a theology of black liberation. Conservative pundits say the church espouses white racism. But Obama and Wright say black empowerment doesn't mean white inferiority. (Chicago Sun-Times) Just two years ago, The United Church of Christ debated “the Lordship and divinity of Jesus.” (Mohler)
Liberals Want End of 'Right-Wing Radio'
(Newsmax) A liberal organization has gone on the attack against what it calls "right-wing talk” radio – while acknowledging that it totally dominates the airwaves today.
The Center for American Progress’ new report, "The Structural Imbalance of Political Talk Radio,” questions whether the "companies licensed to broadcast over the public radio airwaves are serving the listening needs of all Americans,” the Center’s Web site states. "Right-wing talk reigns supreme on America’s airwaves.” Read more...
Air America has basically failed competing in the open market. Evidently, taxpayer subsidized NPR and Radio Pacifica are not enough.
The Center for American Progress’ new report, "The Structural Imbalance of Political Talk Radio,” questions whether the "companies licensed to broadcast over the public radio airwaves are serving the listening needs of all Americans,” the Center’s Web site states. "Right-wing talk reigns supreme on America’s airwaves.” Read more...
Air America has basically failed competing in the open market. Evidently, taxpayer subsidized NPR and Radio Pacifica are not enough.
I'm Fed Up with Comcast!
That's it. I'm done. I called Comcast today and canceled my cable service. There is no reason on earth that a person should have to pay over $50.00 a month for cable TV. I'm not talking premium movie channels, I'm talking basic stuff.For the past 9 years I have paid about $13 a month. For that I had locals channels, news, some cartoon stuff and the golf channel. 13 bucks for 30 channels was not a bad deal. So last night I discover I'm down to about 12 channels. When I called them to ask why, they said "sorry, but for the past nine years you had more channels then you supposed to have". Well that's not what they told me when I took the deal. For 51 bucks a month I could have the same channels I've had for the past 9 years. Nope. No thanks.
So to the shock of the person on the other end of the phone I told them to unplug it. I'm going without it. They way I was treated was appalling. It's not my mistake and instead of working to keep a longtime customer, they pretty much told me "oh well".
I don't really care for the dish, I'm not giving in to Comcast so I guess I'll find other ways of spending my time. Maybe we should all cancel cable TV and see what happens.
UNIONS WORKING AGAINST THE WORKER
Especially the Teacher’s Union as they continue to use dues to prop up left-wing political candidates and causes.
Townhall
Townhall
BUSH EXPECTED TO VETO FEDERALLY FUNDED EMBRYONIC STEM CELL RESEARCH
A spokesman explained “The president supports and encourages stem cell research — including using embryonic lines — as long as it does not involve creating, harming or destroying embryos. That is an ethical line that should not be crossed."
FOX News
FOX News
CARTER: NOT ACCEPTING HAMAS IS “CRIMINAL”
The former Democratic president, who seems to have a soft spot for the terrorist organization, said “The United States and Israel decided to punish all the people in Palestine and did everything they could to deter a compromise between Hamas and Fatah." (Jerusalem Post)
A list of recent Hamas terror attacks. (Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs) Of the terrorist mess, the Jerusalem Post said “The truth is the entire nightmare can be traced back to the liberal democratic policies of the leftist Jimmy Carter, who created a firestorm that destabilized our greatest ally in the Muslim world, the shah of Iran, in favor of a religious fanatic, the ayatollah Khomeini.” (Jerusalem Post)
Some believe Iran is behind the Hamas takeover. (UPI)
A list of recent Hamas terror attacks. (Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs) Of the terrorist mess, the Jerusalem Post said “The truth is the entire nightmare can be traced back to the liberal democratic policies of the leftist Jimmy Carter, who created a firestorm that destabilized our greatest ally in the Muslim world, the shah of Iran, in favor of a religious fanatic, the ayatollah Khomeini.” (Jerusalem Post)
Some believe Iran is behind the Hamas takeover. (UPI)
LEFT GRIP ON DEMOCRATS GROWING
From the story: The candidates' liberal chorus about the war in Iraq, gay rights, healthcare and labor issues was a testament to the Democratic left wing's growing strength since the Republican rout in the 2006 midterm election.
LA Times
LA Times
BLOOMBERG NO LONGER A REPUBLICAN
The story also claims “The aides have said he would travel the country to see whether the message of centrist problem-solving he delivered in California resonates.” What are those “centrist” ideas, according to the New York Times? “global warming, immigration, a crackdown on illegal guns.” The story later notes “Until he ran for mayor in 2001, Mr. Bloomberg was a lifelong Democrat, and his success in New York reflected his ability to draw Democratic votes: he is for abortion rights, gay rights and gun control.” (New York Times)
From Hewitt: Pragmatic Republicans have to realize that Bloomberg's entry makes the financial dimension of the campaign much more important, and that favors Romney. So too will the reactions of down ticket Republicans across the country worried about getting swept away in a sea of Clinton-Bloomberg left-wing ads and internet activism. (Townhall)
From Hewitt: Pragmatic Republicans have to realize that Bloomberg's entry makes the financial dimension of the campaign much more important, and that favors Romney. So too will the reactions of down ticket Republicans across the country worried about getting swept away in a sea of Clinton-Bloomberg left-wing ads and internet activism. (Townhall)
Could The PA Legislature Be Sending Assault Victims To Planned Parenthood?
PA HB 288 requires hospitals and other emergency facilities to ‘promptly’ provide victims of sexual assault with information about “emergency contraceptives” including Plan B. Hospitals are also to readily supply the regimen of emergency contraceptives. One thing this bill does not require is for the hospital to report the sexual assault.
The bill also says a non-profit chosen by the Department of Health will develop and provide the ‘medically and factually accurate” information. It also says that the non-profit shall be “the prime grantee that arranges for the provision of services to sexual violence and rape victims.” Hmmm, just who would this so called, unnamed non-profit organization be?
Casinos could be shut down
The state's five new racetrack casinos, including The Meadows in Washington County, could be shut down as soon as July 7 if Gov. Ed Rendell can't reach agreement with state legislators on a new $27 billion budget for 2007-08.
The meadows reportedly took in $5 million in revenue its first week.
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
The meadows reportedly took in $5 million in revenue its first week.
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Record Abortions In UK
More than 200,000 women had abortions last year, the highest number ever, figures show today.
Almost 4,000 of the 201,173 procedures carried out in England and Wales were on girls under 16, the legal age of consent for sex.
Lambeth had the highest rate of abortions among under-18s - 44 for every 1,000 women having a termination. Across London, 24 in every 1,000 under-18s had an abortion last year.
UK
Almost 4,000 of the 201,173 procedures carried out in England and Wales were on girls under 16, the legal age of consent for sex.
Lambeth had the highest rate of abortions among under-18s - 44 for every 1,000 women having a termination. Across London, 24 in every 1,000 under-18s had an abortion last year.
UK
DEMOCRATS GO BACK ON PROMISE TO CLEAN UP CONGRESS
From the story: Despite the new Democratic congressional leadership's promise of "openness and transparency" in the budget process, a CNN survey of the House found it nearly impossible to get information on lawmakers' pet projects.
CNN
CNN
SUICIDE BOMBERS ALLEGEDLY SENT TO UNITED STATES
And Europe. Story explains “Teams assigned to carry out attacks in the United States, Canada, Great Britain and Germany were introduced at an al Qaeda/Taliban training camp graduation ceremony held June 9.” Some believe it’s propaganda. (ABC News) Meanwhile, another story notes “Six state legislatures are defying a federal law requiring new driver's licenses that aim to prevent identity theft, fraud and terrorism.” States are Maine, Montana, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, South Carolina and Washington. (USA Today)
McCartney Staff Fired For Eating Meat
From Ted Nugent: I have musical touring associates who have been fired from their jobs with ex-Beatle Paul McCartney for sneaking a hamburger. You heard that right. Fired for eating meat by an animal-rights maniac, hard-core vegan bass player.
This is reminiscent of the Beach Boy’s Mike Love firing staff members whom did not practice Transcendental Meditation.
This is reminiscent of the Beach Boy’s Mike Love firing staff members whom did not practice Transcendental Meditation.
Liberals Celebrate 'Decline of Conservatism'
(CNSNews.com) - Liberals who gathered for the fifth annual Take Back America conference in Washington, D.C., on Monday declared conservatism to be in decline -- even "on the way out," in the words of some movement leaders.
"Despite a decade ... of domination by the far right agenda in Congress and the media and the political arena, they have been unable to bring the American people along," Cecile Richards, president of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America, said during a panel discussion on conservative politics. Read more…
This must be why Air America needs the federal government to pass the “Fairness Doctrine” in order to compete with conservative ideas.
"Despite a decade ... of domination by the far right agenda in Congress and the media and the political arena, they have been unable to bring the American people along," Cecile Richards, president of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America, said during a panel discussion on conservative politics. Read more…
This must be why Air America needs the federal government to pass the “Fairness Doctrine” in order to compete with conservative ideas.
MOORE BASHES FILM CRITICAL OF MOORE
From the story: "Manufacturing Dissent," a film that accuses Moore of dishonesty in the making of his politically charged documentaries, alleges that he interviewed then-General Motors Corp. Chairman Roger Smith, the elusive subject of Moore's 1989 debut "Roger & Me," but left the footage on the cutting room floor. "Anybody who says that is a (expletive) liar," Moore told The Associated Press in an interview Saturday after a showing of "Sicko," his take on U.S. medicine, in the northern Michigan village of Bellaire. Moore, who said he hadn't seen "Manufacturing Dissent," acknowledged having had "a good five minutes of back-and forth" with Smith about a company tax abatement at a 1987 shareholders' meeting, as reported by Premiere magazine in 1990.
AP
AP
LAWMAKERS USING CAMPAIGN FUNDS TO PAY RELATIVES
According to Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington which even USA Today described as “a liberal watchdog group.”
USA Today
USA Today
ROMNEY LEADS IN TWO KEY STATES
Story notes “The former governor of Massachusetts is now consistently running first in most polls of two key early nomination races, Iowa and New Hampshire — states where the voters are paying closest attention. Mr. Romney, the top Republican fundraiser in the first quarter of 2007, is generally expected to match or exceed that total ($20.6 million) in the second quarter and maintain his status as No. 1 in GOP presidential finances.”
CBS News
CBS News
GOP SEES HOPE FOR CONGRESS
From the story: The Democratic Congress' job approval score is now worse than President Bush's, plummeting to 23 percent, a drop of eight points since April. House Democrats have been forced to retreat in the face of a furious assault by Republicans on pork-barrel spending, an issue that hurt the Republican Party in November. And Republican recruiting has produced plenty of candidates eyeing weak Democratic freshmen in Republican-leaning districts that swept them into office last year. (Washington Times) Meanwhile, Susan Estrich tells Democrats to focus on bailing on Iraq. (FOX News)
Gov. Rendell addresses gambling addiction
Open these links to hear Gov. Rendell address casino gambling addiction
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9q2JEaqF4k
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=48BJzGvklSo
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rSaCKb_CBnU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9q2JEaqF4k
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=48BJzGvklSo
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rSaCKb_CBnU
Fred Thompson Record on Abortion Scrutinized
(Newsmax:) Unofficial GOP candidate Fred Thompson, who according to the latest Los Angeles Times/Bloomberg poll, came in a close second behind the current leader, Rudy Giuliani -- and beat everyone, including Giuliani, among self-described "religious right" voters -- may be in danger of losing supporters because of his record.
Combing through Thompson's archive, Newsweek found several files on his campaign strategy on abortion that could roil his 2008 bid. On a 1994 Eagle Forum survey, Thompson said he opposed criminalizing abortion. Two years later, on a Christian Coalition questionnaire, he checked "opposed" to a proposed constitutional amendment protecting the sanctity of human life. Read more...
Being the undeclared candidate can hold an irresistible allure - voters can project their values onto the candidate, becoming all things to all people. If Thompson is successful, this may become the campaign model of the future.
Update - Thompson video covering positions abortion, stem cells - click here....
Combing through Thompson's archive, Newsweek found several files on his campaign strategy on abortion that could roil his 2008 bid. On a 1994 Eagle Forum survey, Thompson said he opposed criminalizing abortion. Two years later, on a Christian Coalition questionnaire, he checked "opposed" to a proposed constitutional amendment protecting the sanctity of human life. Read more...
Being the undeclared candidate can hold an irresistible allure - voters can project their values onto the candidate, becoming all things to all people. If Thompson is successful, this may become the campaign model of the future.
Update - Thompson video covering positions abortion, stem cells - click here....
Planned Profithood
Earlier in the week I posted a story about a student feildtrip to Planned Parenthood. Here is one of the responses I recieved:
Since when has Planned parenthood committed any abortions? Get your facts straight. Planned parenthood is an organization involved in educating people and getting help for people of low income in the treatment of sexual diseases, etc. This group, as the story states, is already at risk (again, probably low income, high dropout rates, etc.)So, they are not to get knowledge that will help them make better life choices? PP are also promoters of abstinence so don't keep telling people the sky is green. This is very un-Godlike. I'm sorry, but you are going to hell!
Well, putting my predicted eternal damnation for a blog post aside, this person could not be more wrong. First according to Planned Parenthood's own records, they are the nation's largest abortion provider. Why? Because there is big money in it. Planned Parenthood made a hugh profit last year, thanks to YOU, the American taxpayer.
During its 2005-2006 fiscal year, the Planned Parenthood Federation of America performed a record 264,943 abortions, attained a high profit of $55.8 million and received record taxpayer funding of $305.3 million.
Now before I'm accused of making all this up, you might want to read the Planned Parenthood Federation of America own annual report.
For the year July 1, 2005, through June 30, 2006, Planned Parenthood received $345.1 million in clinic income, $305.3 million in taxpayer funding and $212.2 million in donations. Total income reached $902.8 million while total expenses came to $847.0 million, leaving a profit of $55.8 million.
In this age of "rights" don't those who oppose abortion have the right to refuse to fund this activity through their tax dollars?
Since when has Planned parenthood committed any abortions? Get your facts straight. Planned parenthood is an organization involved in educating people and getting help for people of low income in the treatment of sexual diseases, etc. This group, as the story states, is already at risk (again, probably low income, high dropout rates, etc.)So, they are not to get knowledge that will help them make better life choices? PP are also promoters of abstinence so don't keep telling people the sky is green. This is very un-Godlike. I'm sorry, but you are going to hell!
Well, putting my predicted eternal damnation for a blog post aside, this person could not be more wrong. First according to Planned Parenthood's own records, they are the nation's largest abortion provider. Why? Because there is big money in it. Planned Parenthood made a hugh profit last year, thanks to YOU, the American taxpayer.
During its 2005-2006 fiscal year, the Planned Parenthood Federation of America performed a record 264,943 abortions, attained a high profit of $55.8 million and received record taxpayer funding of $305.3 million.
Now before I'm accused of making all this up, you might want to read the Planned Parenthood Federation of America own annual report.
For the year July 1, 2005, through June 30, 2006, Planned Parenthood received $345.1 million in clinic income, $305.3 million in taxpayer funding and $212.2 million in donations. Total income reached $902.8 million while total expenses came to $847.0 million, leaving a profit of $55.8 million.
In this age of "rights" don't those who oppose abortion have the right to refuse to fund this activity through their tax dollars?
Woman Leads In Balloting for Lutheran bishop
A woman who has served as assistant to Bishop Donald McCoid has emerged as the leading candidate to replace him as bishop of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
With 506 clergy and lay delegates voting at Thiel College in Greenville, Mercer County, the Rev. Martha Clementson had a commanding lead after the second ballot, with 181 votes. The balloting is scheduled to continue through today.
She would be the first woman in any major denomination chosen to be a resident bishop in the Pittsburgh area.
I'll bite my tounge on this one......
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
With 506 clergy and lay delegates voting at Thiel College in Greenville, Mercer County, the Rev. Martha Clementson had a commanding lead after the second ballot, with 181 votes. The balloting is scheduled to continue through today.
She would be the first woman in any major denomination chosen to be a resident bishop in the Pittsburgh area.
I'll bite my tounge on this one......
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Mayor asks for resignations
Mayor Luke Ravenstahl yesterday asked for resignation letters from all department directors and authority heads that he did not appoint in an effort to re-evaluate their performance.
In a statement, the mayor said he was "not satisfied with the condition of city government" and will conduct a nationwide search for the best candidates to run departments.
He asked for resignation letters from the directors and asked that they continue to serve the city in an acting capacity. He encouraged them to reapply for the position "in order to prove they are the best person for the job."
Might I suggest they Mayor do the same thing....
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
In a statement, the mayor said he was "not satisfied with the condition of city government" and will conduct a nationwide search for the best candidates to run departments.
He asked for resignation letters from the directors and asked that they continue to serve the city in an acting capacity. He encouraged them to reapply for the position "in order to prove they are the best person for the job."
Might I suggest they Mayor do the same thing....
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
State's primary date unlikely to change
It doesn't seem likely that Pennsylvania will move up the date of the primary for the 2008 presidential election, political analysts said. Read More
Mass Abuse of the Right to Vote
More than 200 years ago, the Second Continental Congress resolved that one flag would represent America to the world. It ordered that "the flag of the United States be made of thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation." On the very date reserved to honor the flag's proud and glorious history, what was seen waving throughout Boston wasn't Old Glory, but a handful of rainbow flags, symbols not of unity but of division.
The colors crowned a contentious battle for marriage, which suffered a vicious blow at the hands of the Massachusetts legislature. Spurning their own constituents, state lawmakers voted 45 to 151 to take the decision of protecting marriage out of voters' hands. In the end, all three branches of government conspired to frustrate the desire of the voters, ignoring over 170,000 residents who signed petitions, wrongly believing that the principle of representative government would prevail. News outlets like the Boston Globe hinted that Gov. Deval Patrick (D) was buying off votes with political favors as late as yesterday. National politicians also weighed in, including Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Sen. Ted Kennedy, and Chairman of the DNC Howard Dean, fearing the issue would become a rallying cry for the 2008 elections.
Their actions may prove to be the very motivator they feared. After Massachusetts, pro-family forces across the nation will be even more motivated to pursue a federal amendment protecting marriage. Despite the shameless games and political maneuvers, we must not give up on the fight.
The colors crowned a contentious battle for marriage, which suffered a vicious blow at the hands of the Massachusetts legislature. Spurning their own constituents, state lawmakers voted 45 to 151 to take the decision of protecting marriage out of voters' hands. In the end, all three branches of government conspired to frustrate the desire of the voters, ignoring over 170,000 residents who signed petitions, wrongly believing that the principle of representative government would prevail. News outlets like the Boston Globe hinted that Gov. Deval Patrick (D) was buying off votes with political favors as late as yesterday. National politicians also weighed in, including Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Sen. Ted Kennedy, and Chairman of the DNC Howard Dean, fearing the issue would become a rallying cry for the 2008 elections.
Their actions may prove to be the very motivator they feared. After Massachusetts, pro-family forces across the nation will be even more motivated to pursue a federal amendment protecting marriage. Despite the shameless games and political maneuvers, we must not give up on the fight.
Philly no longer a “pro-choice city”
From the story: By a vote of 13-4 today, City Council rescinded last week's symbolic declaration making Philadelphia a "pro-choice" city that supported "women's reproductive rights and freedom" and defended "the right to choose a legal and safe abortion as a final but critical option for women."
The original resolution passed by a 9-8 vote, surprising sponsor Blondell Reynolds Brown who had not expected the declaration to be controversial. Cardinal Justin Rigali swiftly condemned the resolution. Read more...
Where are these people living when they assume that declaring Philadelphia a “pro-choice” city would not be controversial?!?
Now if only the NEA would vote to rescind their so called “reproductive freedom” stand, maybe it would help create more teaching jobs.
The original resolution passed by a 9-8 vote, surprising sponsor Blondell Reynolds Brown who had not expected the declaration to be controversial. Cardinal Justin Rigali swiftly condemned the resolution. Read more...
Where are these people living when they assume that declaring Philadelphia a “pro-choice” city would not be controversial?!?
Now if only the NEA would vote to rescind their so called “reproductive freedom” stand, maybe it would help create more teaching jobs.
Radio Waves
The record industry wants a share of radio's revenues. Spurred by success at getting Congress to agree to require the satellite companies and webcasters to pay royalties - the record labels and artists are launching a push to do away with terrestrial radio's 80-year exemption. The NAB is positioning this as a fight over a new tax on business and vows it will "aggressively fight" what it's referring to as a "performance tax on local radio stations." Since they can't sell there crappy music anymore they need some other source of cash. I predict much more talk radio if this goes through.
Stations will need to prove age demos to get Kellogg ads. Some stations could see their ads go snap, crackle and pop as Kellogg bows to child obesity criticism and adjusts which products it promotes and which stations get its commercials. Similar to what stations face proving their audience is old enough to get alcohol advertising - they'll now need to prove their audience is old enough to get cereal ads. CEO David Mackay says they may also shift ad spending for less-nutritious products to older demos - something that could actually be good for radio. Kellogg spent $883,000 in radio last year.
Air America Dumps News. The New York Daily News reports that the Air America Talk Radio Network is eliminating its news service at the end of June. According to a staff memo from Air America COO Scott Elberg, "We spent the last three months looking at all the options. In the end, it didn't work." Air America was bought out of bankruptcy earlier this year by real estate mogul Stephen L. Green who pledged to run the network economically.
Limbaugh outpost WIOD, Miami keeps its "emergency" deal. Broward County Commissioners quickly responded to protests - some triggered by Rush Limbaugh's own sarcastic commentary - and agreed to renew the county's deal for WIOD to carry full-length weather emergency broadcasts. Here's the Sun-Sentinel coverage.
Stations will need to prove age demos to get Kellogg ads. Some stations could see their ads go snap, crackle and pop as Kellogg bows to child obesity criticism and adjusts which products it promotes and which stations get its commercials. Similar to what stations face proving their audience is old enough to get alcohol advertising - they'll now need to prove their audience is old enough to get cereal ads. CEO David Mackay says they may also shift ad spending for less-nutritious products to older demos - something that could actually be good for radio. Kellogg spent $883,000 in radio last year.
Air America Dumps News. The New York Daily News reports that the Air America Talk Radio Network is eliminating its news service at the end of June. According to a staff memo from Air America COO Scott Elberg, "We spent the last three months looking at all the options. In the end, it didn't work." Air America was bought out of bankruptcy earlier this year by real estate mogul Stephen L. Green who pledged to run the network economically.
Limbaugh outpost WIOD, Miami keeps its "emergency" deal. Broward County Commissioners quickly responded to protests - some triggered by Rush Limbaugh's own sarcastic commentary - and agreed to renew the county's deal for WIOD to carry full-length weather emergency broadcasts. Here's the Sun-Sentinel coverage.
Saturday In The Park
Did I get you humming that Chicago tune????
Come out this Saturday to Relay For Life at Brady's Run Park. I, Shaun "Powerball" Pierce, will be broadcasting live from 1-3 PM. I'll be playing music, giving away some cool stuff and I'd love to meet you.
Relay For Life is a fun-filled event designed to bring together those who have been touched by cancer. We celebrate survivorship and raise money to help the American Cancer Society in its mission to save lives, help those who have been touched by cancer, and empower individuals to fight back.
Look for me and the WORD FM Van right before you cross the bridge into the park. That's this Saturday June 16th from 1-3 at Brady's Run Park in Beaver County.
Come out this Saturday to Relay For Life at Brady's Run Park. I, Shaun "Powerball" Pierce, will be broadcasting live from 1-3 PM. I'll be playing music, giving away some cool stuff and I'd love to meet you.
Relay For Life is a fun-filled event designed to bring together those who have been touched by cancer. We celebrate survivorship and raise money to help the American Cancer Society in its mission to save lives, help those who have been touched by cancer, and empower individuals to fight back.
Look for me and the WORD FM Van right before you cross the bridge into the park. That's this Saturday June 16th from 1-3 at Brady's Run Park in Beaver County.
Debate Question
There is new debate question over on the PowerBlog! Talk Back Forum. Go check it out
Lawmaker's aide quits over blog
A top aide to state Sen. Lisa Boscola of Northampton County said yesterday he had submitted his resignation because of his profanity-laced remarks on a blog about U.S. Rep. Charlie Dent and a potential Democratic challenger. Read More
House GOP leader accuses Dems of stalling budget talks
The House Republican leader on Wednesday accused Democrats of purposely slowing down budget talks as a negotiating tactic with the end of the fiscal year only 18 days away. Read More
God & Popcorn: Movies Target Religious $$$
Grace Hill Media, a PR firm that reaches out to religious groups, is publicizing "Evan Almighty" to faith-based audiences. Slated for release June 22, it stars Steve Carell as a modern-day Noah. "Forty-three percent of this country is in church; that's a big chunk of folks," said Grace Hill president Jonathan Bock....moreIn other Hollywood news, Former Paramount head focused on 'spiritainment'.
David Kirkpatrick wants to make Massachusetts, the bluest of the blue states, into a hotbed of faith-based entertainment production. The former president of Paramount Pictures is cofounder of Good News Holdings, whose mission is to produce "spiritainment."...more
RUTH GRAHAM NEAR DEATH
A touching statement from Billy Graham: “Ruth is my soul mate and best friend, and I cannot imagine living a single day without her by my side. I am more in love with her today than when we first met over 65 years ago as students at Wheaton College.”ABC News
POLL: RELIGION MORE IMPORTANT TO REPUBLICANS
Not a huge shock. Some findings: 6 in 10 Americans say religion is very important in their lives. 66 percent of Republicans, 57 percent of Democrats, only 48 percent of independents.
Gallup
Gallup
HAMAS: “THE ERA OF JUSTICE AND ISLAMIC RULE HAVE ARRIVED”
Not according to my watch. As battles rage, the terrorist group is closer to controlling the Gaza Strip.
CBS News
CBS News
China Slams Bush Over Remarks on Communism
(CNSNews.com) - China on Thursday criticized President Bush's remarks at the dedication of a memorial to 100 million-plus victims of communism, accusing him of a "Cold War" mentality.
"According to the best scholarly estimate, communism took the lives of tens of millions of people in China and the Soviet Union, and millions more in North Korea, Cambodia, Africa, Afghanistan, Vietnam, Eastern Europe, and other parts of the globe," [the president] said. Read more…
It’s interesting that China’s response sounds like it was written by the New York Times.
"According to the best scholarly estimate, communism took the lives of tens of millions of people in China and the Soviet Union, and millions more in North Korea, Cambodia, Africa, Afghanistan, Vietnam, Eastern Europe, and other parts of the globe," [the president] said. Read more…
It’s interesting that China’s response sounds like it was written by the New York Times.
INFANTICIDE, ABORTION RESPONSIBLE FOR 60 MILLION GIRLS MISSING IN ASIA
"Twenty-five million men in China currently can’t find brides because there is a shortage of women," said Steven Mosher, president of the Population Research Institute in Washington, D.C. "The young men emigrate overseas to find brides." Read more….
One would think that NARL would at least oppose abortion for this type of one-sided gender selection, their silence on this issue is deafening.
One would think that NARL would at least oppose abortion for this type of one-sided gender selection, their silence on this issue is deafening.
Birth Control and The Christian Part II
UPDATE: Dr. Allan Carlson is scheduled to be on the John & Stephaine show June 21 at 4:40pm on 101.5 WORD Fm in Pittsburgh.
Back in November of 2004, I wrote a piece on the myth of birth control, It a myth that millions of Christians have accepted. We did a show on it and had two doctors live on the air that both had different ideas as to when life begins. Is it when the egg is fertilized or when it attaches to the wall?
What the two doctors did agree on is the fact that there is a lot we just don't know. We can't say for certain that the use of birth control does not and never will cause an abortion. That is the one fact in this whole debate we need to put in neon lights.
All of you Christians out there reading this and using birth control need to understand.... It is possible by using birth control pills you are causing (albeit unknowingly) an abortion. Let that sink in a moment.
Millions of Christians could be having abortions every year without even knowing it! Just that fact must cause us to review our decisions and answer the question: Are we doing things because it's God's will or because it's convenient for us?
Back then I was slammed for even suggesting such a thing. Many chalked it up to "Catholic teaching" and dismissed my ideas. But now more Protestants are questioning are contraception
Pro-life principles inconsistent with ‘birth control’?
Fact is Protestants and Catholics were united in opposing contraception until the mid–twentieth century. Since then, the Catholic Church has stood virtually alone on the issue. But some pro-life Protestants are rediscovering that marriage and procreation are intertwined blessings.
Family experts DR. ALLAN CARLSON and PAUL MERO—neither of whom is Catholic—explain why many believers of various denominations are deciding that birth control is incompatible with a biblical world view.
In The Natural Family: A Manifesto, Carlson and Mero describe what our public policy would look like if we were serious about restoring the American family. They show why the family is in crisis and what we can do to preserve the most fundamental and wholesome relationship on earth. None of it is new. But finally people are being to understand what the Catholic church has been teaching and the reasoning behind it. Muslims are not using birth control and simple math should sound an alarm for all Christians.
I intend to try and get Dr. Carlson on the show. In the meantime to read the essay by Dr. Allan Carlson on Protestants and contraception, go here
Back in November of 2004, I wrote a piece on the myth of birth control, It a myth that millions of Christians have accepted. We did a show on it and had two doctors live on the air that both had different ideas as to when life begins. Is it when the egg is fertilized or when it attaches to the wall?
What the two doctors did agree on is the fact that there is a lot we just don't know. We can't say for certain that the use of birth control does not and never will cause an abortion. That is the one fact in this whole debate we need to put in neon lights.
All of you Christians out there reading this and using birth control need to understand.... It is possible by using birth control pills you are causing (albeit unknowingly) an abortion. Let that sink in a moment.
Millions of Christians could be having abortions every year without even knowing it! Just that fact must cause us to review our decisions and answer the question: Are we doing things because it's God's will or because it's convenient for us?
Back then I was slammed for even suggesting such a thing. Many chalked it up to "Catholic teaching" and dismissed my ideas. But now more Protestants are questioning are contraception
Pro-life principles inconsistent with ‘birth control’?
Fact is Protestants and Catholics were united in opposing contraception until the mid–twentieth century. Since then, the Catholic Church has stood virtually alone on the issue. But some pro-life Protestants are rediscovering that marriage and procreation are intertwined blessings.
Family experts DR. ALLAN CARLSON and PAUL MERO—neither of whom is Catholic—explain why many believers of various denominations are deciding that birth control is incompatible with a biblical world view.
In The Natural Family: A Manifesto, Carlson and Mero describe what our public policy would look like if we were serious about restoring the American family. They show why the family is in crisis and what we can do to preserve the most fundamental and wholesome relationship on earth. None of it is new. But finally people are being to understand what the Catholic church has been teaching and the reasoning behind it. Muslims are not using birth control and simple math should sound an alarm for all Christians.
I intend to try and get Dr. Carlson on the show. In the meantime to read the essay by Dr. Allan Carlson on Protestants and contraception, go here
Senate passes, advances bill to change workers' tax
The state Senate gave final approval yesterday to a bill making the $52 a year "emergency and municipal services" tax more palatable, especially to lower-income workers. Read More
Potential threat against Ohio nuclear power plant
An alleged threat against the Davis-Besse Nuclear Power Station has surfaced. The potential threat was viewed as serious enough for the Port Clinton Police Department to call in the FBI Monday night.
A restaurant employee called Port Clinton police reporting two Arabic men wrote a note on a napkin while at McCarthy's Restaurant & Pub in downtown Port Clinton, Ottawa County Sheriff Bob Bratton said.
Complete article - Sandusky Register
A restaurant employee called Port Clinton police reporting two Arabic men wrote a note on a napkin while at McCarthy's Restaurant & Pub in downtown Port Clinton, Ottawa County Sheriff Bob Bratton said.
Complete article - Sandusky Register
Hurricane Information Broadcast Deal May Be Canceled Because Radio Station Airs Rush Limbaugh
Rush Limbaugh has long been a thorn in the side of liberals, but now, because of him, some Democratic politicians don't even want to join with a local radio station to broadcast hurricane information.
Radio station WIOD, AM 610, [in Broward County, Florida] has been the official channel for emergency information from Broward County government for the past year. The County Commission, all Democrats, balked at renewing the deal Tuesday, unable to stomach the station also being home to Limbaugh's talk show. Read more...
Given Rush’s market share, not giving hurricane information on AM 610 would be self-defeating. Maybe they can aim for the much lower market share on the local NPR affiliate.
Radio station WIOD, AM 610, [in Broward County, Florida] has been the official channel for emergency information from Broward County government for the past year. The County Commission, all Democrats, balked at renewing the deal Tuesday, unable to stomach the station also being home to Limbaugh's talk show. Read more...
Given Rush’s market share, not giving hurricane information on AM 610 would be self-defeating. Maybe they can aim for the much lower market share on the local NPR affiliate.
Catholic Priest Abducted
Some terrible news out of the Philippines. an Italian priest was abducted and authorities suspect Islamic rebels.
MANILA, Philippines – Gunmen abducted an Italian Roman Catholic priest who was on his way to a remote village to celebrate Sunday Mass in the southern Philippines, police said.
Giancarlo Bossi, 57, was riding his motorcycle in Zamboanga Sibugay province's Payao township, about 500 miles south of Manila, when about 10 armed men blocked his path then seized him, said Senior Superintendent Francisco Cristobal, the provincial police chief.
Cristobal said he suspected Moro Islamic Liberation Front rebels who operate in Zamboanga Sibugay, despite a cease-fire agreement with the government.
Hours after the kidnapping, Pope Benedict XVI condemned the abductions of priests and others around the world and said he was praying for all those who were being held hostage. “I direct my appeal to the authors of these abominable acts, so that they realize the wrong they have done and quickly return their prisoners to their loved ones,” Benedict said.
Bossi was assigned as parish priest of Payao in April and is a member of the Pontificio Instituto Missioni Estere, Cristobal said. Sundalo Jianni, an official from the mission, appealed to Bossi's abductors to free him.
MANILA, Philippines – Gunmen abducted an Italian Roman Catholic priest who was on his way to a remote village to celebrate Sunday Mass in the southern Philippines, police said.
Giancarlo Bossi, 57, was riding his motorcycle in Zamboanga Sibugay province's Payao township, about 500 miles south of Manila, when about 10 armed men blocked his path then seized him, said Senior Superintendent Francisco Cristobal, the provincial police chief.
Cristobal said he suspected Moro Islamic Liberation Front rebels who operate in Zamboanga Sibugay, despite a cease-fire agreement with the government.
Hours after the kidnapping, Pope Benedict XVI condemned the abductions of priests and others around the world and said he was praying for all those who were being held hostage. “I direct my appeal to the authors of these abominable acts, so that they realize the wrong they have done and quickly return their prisoners to their loved ones,” Benedict said.
Bossi was assigned as parish priest of Payao in April and is a member of the Pontificio Instituto Missioni Estere, Cristobal said. Sundalo Jianni, an official from the mission, appealed to Bossi's abductors to free him.
US HAS “IRREFUTABLE” EVIDENCE AGAINST IRAN
A U.S. diplomat claims we know they are transferring weapons to the Taliban in Afghanistan.
My question is what are we waiting for?
FOX News
My question is what are we waiting for?
FOX News
Free Movie Anyone?
Ok shhhhhh.... this is by invitation only. How would you like to go see the new movie "Even Almighty" for free? You're a PowerBlog! reader. You know I'll hook you up!First, here is what the movie is about. Steve Carell (“Bruce Almighty,” “The Office”), reprising his role as the polished, preening newscaster Evan Baxter of “Bruce Almighty”, is the next one anointed by God to accomplish a holy mission in the hilarious new family comedy “Evan Almighty.”
It's rated PG and it's Thursday 6/21 at the Showcase West 301 Park Manor Drive., Pittsburgh, PA. In Robinson Towne Center. The movie starts at 7:00 PM but get there early. Seating is limited and not guaranteed.
It's you and up to 3 guests. So how do you get in? Easy ... just go here. Sign up and we will email you back a confirmation. Free movie! Popcorn not included.....
Evangelcasting!
Many of you may have notice the weekly podcasts avialable in the Power Links section. If you have not listened I highly recomend it. They have been produced right here in Pittsburgh by Fr. Jim Wehner. Well now I have some great news.
The National Fellowship of Catholic Men (NFCM) and the Catholic Men's Fellowship of Pittsburgh (CMFPitt) have joined forces to providethese 10 minute weekly podcast reflections on the upcoming Sundays Mass readings. The podcasts are available to men worldwide, including all men who register on the NFCM website (www.catholicmensresources.org) and all those who have subscribed on the CMFPitt website (www.cmfpitt.org). In addition they will continue to be available on PowerBlog!
You can listen at your computer, or download it to an iPod or MP3 player. The weekly podcasts will be provided by clergy, who are gifted men of God and know how to speak to men. I encourage you to join me in listening each week. The Podcast page also provides a link to the corresponding readings so that you can scan the readings in conjunction with listening to the podcast. Click here to go to the web page with the podcasts.
Please help other men encounter Jesus Christ through His Church by encouraging them to subscribe to this FREE weekly reflection. They can do this by registering on the NFCM website or subscribing on the CMFPitt website.
The National Fellowship of Catholic Men (NFCM) and the Catholic Men's Fellowship of Pittsburgh (CMFPitt) have joined forces to providethese 10 minute weekly podcast reflections on the upcoming Sundays Mass readings. The podcasts are available to men worldwide, including all men who register on the NFCM website (www.catholicmensresources.org) and all those who have subscribed on the CMFPitt website (www.cmfpitt.org). In addition they will continue to be available on PowerBlog!
You can listen at your computer, or download it to an iPod or MP3 player. The weekly podcasts will be provided by clergy, who are gifted men of God and know how to speak to men. I encourage you to join me in listening each week. The Podcast page also provides a link to the corresponding readings so that you can scan the readings in conjunction with listening to the podcast. Click here to go to the web page with the podcasts.
Please help other men encounter Jesus Christ through His Church by encouraging them to subscribe to this FREE weekly reflection. They can do this by registering on the NFCM website or subscribing on the CMFPitt website.
DeWeese kills bonuses to House staffers
By handing out hefty performance bonuses to House Democratic staffers last year, Majority Leader Bill DeWeese said he was just trying to attract and retain good workers and reward them for long days of legislative work. Read More
Statewide smoking ban gains in Senate
A proposed statewide indoor smoking ban is gaining traction in the state Senate, with a vote on it likely to take place this month. This would represent the first time the issue has been tested in a Pennsylvania legislative chamber. Read More
Abortion Field Trip
Hey kids, let's go see where many of your classmates were killed before they were born. In Manchester, NH the city school board voted for an investigation into a field trip that brought middle school students to a Planned Parenthood office.
Students in the STAY program, a program for at-risk middle school students that is operated by the YMCA, (yes Young Men's CHRISTIAN Association) visited the Planned Parenthood offices as part of a field trip to social service agencies throughout the city. They were confronted by pro-life groups who normally picket the agency.
I wonder what they learned vs. what was being taught?
New Hampshire Union Leader
Students in the STAY program, a program for at-risk middle school students that is operated by the YMCA, (yes Young Men's CHRISTIAN Association) visited the Planned Parenthood offices as part of a field trip to social service agencies throughout the city. They were confronted by pro-life groups who normally picket the agency.
I wonder what they learned vs. what was being taught?
New Hampshire Union Leader
APPROVAL OF CONGRESS SLIPPING
When the people give you power they expect you to use it wisely. That's not the case in the latest poll numbers. Down to the lowest in a decade. Also from the story: House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco), the first woman to hold that position, has also failed to impress many Americans. Only 36% approve of the way she is handling the job, the poll found. In contrast, 46% of Americans in the current poll said they approved of the way Speaker Newt Gingrich of Georgia handled the job after he led the GOP into the majority in 1994.
LA Times
LA Times
It Was Twenty Years Ago Today…
No, this is not a reference to the Beatles' Sergeant Pepper lyrics, but to President Ronald Reagan’s challenge to the former Soviet Union while standing by the Berlin wall, “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall”.
This line of the speech was opposed and deleted multiple times by Reagan’s staff, including Colin Powell, before Reagan re-inserted it on June 12, 1987. It is a fascinating story of doing what is right when everyone opposes you. The background information....
This line of the speech was opposed and deleted multiple times by Reagan’s staff, including Colin Powell, before Reagan re-inserted it on June 12, 1987. It is a fascinating story of doing what is right when everyone opposes you. The background information....
No More State House Bonuses
House Democratic staffers who reaped more than $2.3 million in bonuses over the past two years can kiss those extra rewards good-bye.
A memo issued on Friday by House Majority Leader Bill DeWeese said he concluded that eliminating bonuses outweighs the benefits of awarding them. Read more...
I hope that Attorney General Corbett’s office fully investigates the House bonuses awarded by both parties. Some full time staffers have no doubt earned their bonuses. But the appearance of impropriety is high for those House staffers who have taken several months off to help certain campaigns, and then return to 5-figure, taxpayer-funded bonuses.
A memo issued on Friday by House Majority Leader Bill DeWeese said he concluded that eliminating bonuses outweighs the benefits of awarding them. Read more...
I hope that Attorney General Corbett’s office fully investigates the House bonuses awarded by both parties. Some full time staffers have no doubt earned their bonuses. But the appearance of impropriety is high for those House staffers who have taken several months off to help certain campaigns, and then return to 5-figure, taxpayer-funded bonuses.
Columbus, Ohio Terror Plot
“There are acts of terror being planned against the citizens of America, in America, by Islamic extremists who live, work and play among us. Most people don’t realize how serious the threat is, and they feel insulated against terror attacks since 9/11 has become not much more than a distant memory.” --Federal source
Last week, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Southeastern District of Ohio filed an exhibit list with the court of 102 individual items that connects three-(3) Muslim men in a Columbus, Ohio Islamic terrorist cell. The evidence connects the three terror defendants Nuradin ABDI, Christopher PAUL (a/k/a Abdul MALEK), and Iyman FARIS (a/k/a Mohammad RAUF) to each other and to separate acts of planned terrorism inside the U.S. According to one federal law enforcement source speaking to this investigator on the condition of anonymity, the unsealed indictments, previous testimony in the case against Iyman FARIS, and the planned acts of terror is “paints a disturbing picture of what is taking place in the U.S. today among radical Muslims in American mosques.”
All three men are Muslims or Muslim converts. All three were active in activities at Columbus mosques, including Christopher PAUL, who taught martial arts training at a Columbus mosque to fellow members and conducted paramilitary training in rural areas of Ohio. All three have alleged connections to Islamic terrorism and al Qaeda that date back to the early 1990s. Now, the U.S. Department of Justice has introduced exhibits that connect all three men in a web of plots that range from the destruction of the Brooklyn Bridge to blowing up a Columbus area shopping mall with the intent on killing as many men, women and children as possible.
According to one federal source speaking on condition of anonymity, the case is not unique. “There are active al Qaeda members or facilitators inside the U.S. who are doing exactly what PAUL is accused of doing – training others inside the U.S. for future terrorist attacks. These plans are being made at local mosques under the protection of religious freedom that is offered by our country.”
Last week, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Southeastern District of Ohio filed an exhibit list with the court of 102 individual items that connects three-(3) Muslim men in a Columbus, Ohio Islamic terrorist cell. The evidence connects the three terror defendants Nuradin ABDI, Christopher PAUL (a/k/a Abdul MALEK), and Iyman FARIS (a/k/a Mohammad RAUF) to each other and to separate acts of planned terrorism inside the U.S. According to one federal law enforcement source speaking to this investigator on the condition of anonymity, the unsealed indictments, previous testimony in the case against Iyman FARIS, and the planned acts of terror is “paints a disturbing picture of what is taking place in the U.S. today among radical Muslims in American mosques.”
All three men are Muslims or Muslim converts. All three were active in activities at Columbus mosques, including Christopher PAUL, who taught martial arts training at a Columbus mosque to fellow members and conducted paramilitary training in rural areas of Ohio. All three have alleged connections to Islamic terrorism and al Qaeda that date back to the early 1990s. Now, the U.S. Department of Justice has introduced exhibits that connect all three men in a web of plots that range from the destruction of the Brooklyn Bridge to blowing up a Columbus area shopping mall with the intent on killing as many men, women and children as possible.
According to one federal source speaking on condition of anonymity, the case is not unique. “There are active al Qaeda members or facilitators inside the U.S. who are doing exactly what PAUL is accused of doing – training others inside the U.S. for future terrorist attacks. These plans are being made at local mosques under the protection of religious freedom that is offered by our country.”
PHILADELPHIA CITY COUNCIL DECLARES THE CITY “PRO-CHOICE”
Planned Parenthood helped draft the resolution. The story calls pro-lifers “against abortion rights.” (Philadelphia Inquirer) The Inquirer joins a long list of media outlets with pro-abortion bias. (Newsbusters) Meanwhile, now that Democrats have control in New Hampshire, they’re working to strip parental notification from the books. (Boston Globe)
MCCAIN SLIPPING AS THOMPSON TAKES SUPPORT
Many jumping to Thompson’s side. (Washington Post) McCain is also suffering due to his connection to Ted Kennedy. (Washington Times)
LIEBERMAN: WE MUST CONSIDER ATTACK ON IRAN
The senator said “I think we've got to be prepared to take aggressive military action against the Iranians to stop them from killing Americans in Iraq. And to me, that would include a strike over the border into Iran, where we have good evidence that they have a base at which they are training these people coming back into Iraq to kill our soldiers." (AP) Meanwhile, Iran continues to hold Iranian-Americans, blaming three of “endangering Iran's national security and of espionage.” (CBS News)
70,000 Thanks You's
Recently we passed the 70,000 visitor mark. When I started this blog back in 2004 I had no idea if anyone would read it. I'm glad 70,000 of you have. My thanks to all of you who are regular visitors. To those of you who read and post comments, I thank you. I also want to thank Jim Powers for his posting contributions.
I do ask all of you to continue to spread the word about PowerBlog! We survive on word of mouth. (and the occasional controversy).
I do ask all of you to continue to spread the word about PowerBlog! We survive on word of mouth. (and the occasional controversy).
Judge rules against Pa. tax system
The state law governing the way real estate is assessed for tax purposes is unconstitutional and produces "arbitrary, unjust, and unreasonably discriminatory results," a county judge ruled yesterday. Read More
I can fix it... no more property taxes!
I can fix it... no more property taxes!
Republicans in state House target welfare costs
House Republicans say the state welfare system is broken and they have a plan to fix it. Yesterday, 16 of them unveiled a package of bills that would cut off cash assistance to recipients who use drugs, institute a 120-day residency requirement for benefits, require electronic fingerprinting for welfare applicants and reduce funding to the Department of Public Welfare if its welfare-to-work program doesn't improve. Read More
GAY GROUPS WANT SURGEON GENERAL NOMINEE TOSSED
For, among a few other things “voting to expel a lesbian pastor from the United Methodist Church and writing in 1991 that gay sex is unnatural and unhealthy.”
Boston Globe
Boston Globe
IMMIGRATION BILL ON THIN ICE
As the senate voted on a number of amendments things began to wither. From the story: The Senate voted 51-46 to reject a proposal by Sen. John Cornyn R-Texas, to bar criminals — including those ordered by judges to be deported — from gaining legal status. Democrats siphoned support from Cornyn's proposal by winning adoption of a rival version that would bar a more limited set of criminals, including certain gang members and sex offenders, from gaining legalization. The Senate backed that amendment 66-32. Later: McCain was joined in opposing the amendment by the Senate's four Democratic presidential hopefuls: Obama, Clinton, Joe Biden of Delaware and Chris Dodd of Connecticut. Cornyn prevailed on another matter opposed by the grand bargainers, however. His amendment, adopted 57 to 39, would make it easier to locate and deport illegal immigrants whose visa applications are rejected. (AP) According to the Heritage Foundation, the amnesty would cost $2.6 trillion. (Heritage)
IRAN CAUGHT SHIPPING ARMS TO TALIBAN
From the story: "It is inconceivable that it is anyone other than the Iranian government that's doing it," said former White House counterterrorism official Richard Clarke, an ABC News consultant.
ABC News
ABC News
Outside The Gate: Living Beyond Boundries
One of the great things about this blog is all kinds of people read it. I get email from homosexuals, muslims, protestants, catholics, non-believers and others from all over the place.
Some love it, some hate it and the world goes round and round. I tend to learn more from people who disagree with me.
When I started this 3 years ago, I promised myself that if I ever found myself preaching to the choir and every response was total agreement, I would unplug this site. That has not happened. The challenges have caused me to search, think and go deeper then just some catchy headline. For that I thank all of you. Yet, I wonder if any of this has had the same effect on any of you?
I remember a story about Mother Teresa asking permission to minister to people on the streets in Calcutta. She was told it was too dangerous beyond the convent walls. That struck me. Often times we build our own walls of comfort. We wring our hands over the suffering that goes on just outside those walls, but we never open the gate and dare to venture out into that other world.
I'm going to get on my soapbox here so be warned. Why are we so afraid? I have been exposed to more types of "Christianity" then one can count. Some is wonderful, others make me cringe. But we all seem to be guilty (self included) of building the Christian bubble. We freak out if anyone different comes into our space. We like the people in our building on Sunday but heaven forbid we have to talk to someone who does not accept our own personalized version of Jesus.
You know, if you have any faith you won't implode if you talk to a mormon or a rabbi or anyone else for that matter. You might actually learn something and be able to present your own faith in manner besides yelling "because the Bible says so" I challenge you to examine your environment. How big is your world?
Some love it, some hate it and the world goes round and round. I tend to learn more from people who disagree with me.
When I started this 3 years ago, I promised myself that if I ever found myself preaching to the choir and every response was total agreement, I would unplug this site. That has not happened. The challenges have caused me to search, think and go deeper then just some catchy headline. For that I thank all of you. Yet, I wonder if any of this has had the same effect on any of you?
I remember a story about Mother Teresa asking permission to minister to people on the streets in Calcutta. She was told it was too dangerous beyond the convent walls. That struck me. Often times we build our own walls of comfort. We wring our hands over the suffering that goes on just outside those walls, but we never open the gate and dare to venture out into that other world.
I'm going to get on my soapbox here so be warned. Why are we so afraid? I have been exposed to more types of "Christianity" then one can count. Some is wonderful, others make me cringe. But we all seem to be guilty (self included) of building the Christian bubble. We freak out if anyone different comes into our space. We like the people in our building on Sunday but heaven forbid we have to talk to someone who does not accept our own personalized version of Jesus.
You know, if you have any faith you won't implode if you talk to a mormon or a rabbi or anyone else for that matter. You might actually learn something and be able to present your own faith in manner besides yelling "because the Bible says so" I challenge you to examine your environment. How big is your world?
Man Targets Pope
A man tried to jump into Pope Benedict XVI's uncovered popemobile as the pontiff began his general audience Wednesday in St. Peter's Square and was wrestled to the ground by security officers.
The pope was not hurt and didn't even appear to notice that the man had jumped over the protective barricade in the square and toward the white popemobile as it drove by with the pope waving to the audience.
At least eight security officers who were trailing the popemobile grabbed the man and wrestled him to the ground. The pope didn't even look back.
A Vatican official, who was not authorized to speak on the record, said the man was being held for questioning by Vatican police.
God & Rudy Square Off
Lighting strikes as Rudy Giuliani attempts to defend his support of abortion.
God always did have the best comedic timing.
Watch Here
God always did have the best comedic timing.
Watch Here
NOW CONGRESS WILL INVESTIGATE JEFFERSON
Jessica Boulanger, National Republican Congressional Committee spokeswoman, noted "After months of silence, finally calling for Bill Jefferson to step down 94 pages and 16 counts later is hardly the kind of leadership on ethics the American people asked for." (FOX News) It appears New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin wants Jefferson’s job. (The Hill)
HOLLYWOOD 20 SOMETHINGS GETTING INTO TROUBLE
Story notes “At 25, Britney Spears says she has seen "rock bottom." At 20, Lindsay Lohan is in rehab for a second time. And 26-year-old Paris Hilton? Behind bars.… Nicole Richie, 25, is in court this week facing a second drunken-driving charge, and Mischa Barton, 21, was just hospitalized on Memorial Day for mixing prescription drugs with alcohol. … Rapper Eve, 29; Prison Break's Lane Garrison, 27; Desperate Housewives' Jesse Metcalfe, 28; and The Hills' Jason Wahler, 20. It seems young, club-crawling stars are spiraling out of control.”
Harry Reid's New Definition
Sen. Harry Reid has taken it upon himslef to redefine those who enter this country illegally. Does he call them criminals, illegal immigrants, invaders? Nope, Harry prefers the term “UNDOCUMENTED AMERICANS”.
Undocumented, yes, but what makes a person an American? Apparently if you have American soil under your feet, then Reid considers you an American.
On his own website – in video. ( Reid) A look at what is technically “American.” (Wikipedia or Dictionary)
SCORES UP SINCE “NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND;” UNION LEADER UNHAPPY
While many were thrilled, Edward J. McElroy, president of the American Federation of Teachers, complained the law is working "against some of the progress that is being noted in this study."
Huh? It's not hard to see who is working against progress here.
Washington Post
Huh? It's not hard to see who is working against progress here.
Washington Post
Another One Comes Home
In the past week or so I have learned about several people who have recently come to the Catholic faith. Dr. Robert Koons is a professor of philosophy at the University of Texas and he too joins that list.
Robert was baptized through the Lutheran Church -- Missouri Synod, and has been an active member of the church body ever since. He writes:
"Although I believed that only the Scriptures were infallible, I nonetheless assigned great weight to the ‘rule of faith’ established by the continuous tradition of teaching by the Church, and as reflected in the writings of the Fathers and the decrees of Councils. Insofar as I accepted a form of ‘sola scriptura’, it took the form of insisting that all doctrines must have their source in the Scriptures as interpreted by the Church, or in the universal practices and teaching of the early church."
Robert was baptized through the Lutheran Church -- Missouri Synod, and has been an active member of the church body ever since. He writes:
"Although I believed that only the Scriptures were infallible, I nonetheless assigned great weight to the ‘rule of faith’ established by the continuous tradition of teaching by the Church, and as reflected in the writings of the Fathers and the decrees of Councils. Insofar as I accepted a form of ‘sola scriptura’, it took the form of insisting that all doctrines must have their source in the Scriptures as interpreted by the Church, or in the universal practices and teaching of the early church."
Libby Sentenced to 30 Months
Developing - Former vice presidential aide Lewis "Scooter" Libby was sentenced Tuesday to 30 months in prison for obstruction and lying to investigators probing who leaked the identity of CIA operative Valerie Plame to the media. Libby was also ordered to pay a $250,000 fine and was given two years probation.
Rewind
H/T PBRTV:
If you grew up in Pitsburgh (and had a TV) you'll love this blast from the past. For instance, this intro clip of WTAE-TV's Action News from Christmas Day 1983. Note the familiar face once the newscast begins.
Or how about this clip from a WPXI newscast in 1986 with Mike Hambrick and Roxanne Stein?
Or this one from 1989 with Hambrick and Edye Tarbox... (Now E.D. Hill on Fox News Channel)
And what would an old newscast in Pittsburgh be without a ride through the Ft. Pitt Tunnels to KDKA-TV's Eyewitness News?
If you grew up in Pitsburgh (and had a TV) you'll love this blast from the past. For instance, this intro clip of WTAE-TV's Action News from Christmas Day 1983. Note the familiar face once the newscast begins.
Or how about this clip from a WPXI newscast in 1986 with Mike Hambrick and Roxanne Stein?
Or this one from 1989 with Hambrick and Edye Tarbox... (Now E.D. Hill on Fox News Channel)
And what would an old newscast in Pittsburgh be without a ride through the Ft. Pitt Tunnels to KDKA-TV's Eyewitness News?
Congress and gas prices
Gas prices are through the roof. Again. And like the patient whose doctor taps his knee with the hammer, Congress reacts with a reflexive jerk, bereft of any thought or consideration. The response of our elected representatives to high pump prices is to issue a slew of ill-conceived policy proposals, fueled by outraged ignorance, which ultimately will do nothing to solve our nation's energy problems. In fact, they may make them worse. . .
Congress and gas prices - Washington Times
Congress and gas prices - Washington Times
CONGRESSMAN JEFFERSON QUIETLY INDICTED
Representative William Jefferson, Democrat of Louisiana, was indicted yesterday on federal charges of racketeering, money-laundering, and soliciting more than $400,000 in bribes in connection with years of trying to broker business deals in Africa. Story also notes “He is the first sitting member of Congress to face charges under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, which prohibits corporate bribery overseas.”Boston Globe
DEMOCRAT CONTROLLED CONGRESS FADING IN POLLS
From the story: Six weeks ago the Democrats held a 24-point lead over Bush as the stronger leadership force in Washington; today that's collapsed to a dead heat
ABC News
ABC News
LATEST FROM AHMADINEJAD: CAN’T STOP US NOW
From the story: Hard-line President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said Tuesday that it was "too late" to stop Iran's nuclear program and warned the U.S. and its allies not to push for new U.N. sanctions on Iran, which he compared to a lion sitting quietly in a corner.
FOX News
FOX News
HILLARY CITES FAITH FOR SAVED MARRIAGE
Key paragraph: "The forum, sponsored by the liberal Sojourners/Call to Renewal evangelical organization, provided an uncommon glimpse into the most personal beliefs of Clinton and rivals John Edwards and Barack Obama." The three candidates were invited by Sojourners founder Jim Wallis; (FOX News) Meanwhile, a Gallup poll has Obama tied with Hillary. (USA Today)FED. APPELLATE COURT ALLOWS EXPLETIVE SLIPS
I sat down to write this *#@! post but spilled my @*#!* coffee on the keyboard so I had to postpone the whole @!&$ing thing.
A Federal Appellate Court Panel in New York stunned the Bush Administration and the FCC by ruling that it’s OK for broadcasters to allow “fleeting expletives” to air with impunity. The decision could possibly gut the ability of the FCC to regulate any speech on radio or TV.
The decision was a victory for Fox, CBS, NBC and ABC, who filed suit against the high FCC fines against them for broadcasting expletives.
THE NEW YORK TIMES reports if President Bush and Vice President Cheney can blurt out vulgar language, then the government cannot punish broadcast television stations for broadcasting the same words in similarly fleeting contexts. So says the court.
Kevin J. Martin, the chairman of the F.C.C., said that the agency was now considering whether to seek an appeal before all the judges of the appeals court or to take the matter directly to the Supreme Court.
Under President Bush, the F.C.C. has expanded its indecency rules, taking a much harder line on obscenities uttered on broadcast television and radio. While the judges sent the case back to the commission to rewrite its indecency policy, it said that it was “doubtful” that the agency would be able to “adequately respond to the constitutional and statutory challenges raised by the networks.”
Mr. Martin, the chairman of the commission, attacked the panel’s reasoning.
“I completely disagree with the court’s ruling and am disappointed for American families,” he said. “The court says the commission is ‘divorced from reality.’ It is the New York court, not the commission, that is divorced from reality.”
He said that if the agency was unable to prohibit some vulgarities during prime time, “Hollywood will be able to say anything they want, whenever they want.”
Beginning with the F.C.C.’s indecency finding in a case against NBC for a vulgarity uttered by the U2 singer Bono during the Golden Globes awards ceremony in 2003, President Bush’s Republican and Democratic appointees to the commission have imposed a tougher policy by punishing any station that broadcast a fleeting expletive. That includes vulgar language blurted out on live shows like the Golden Globes or scripted shows like “NYPD Blue,” which was cited in the case.
But the judges said vulgar words are just as often used out of frustration or excitement, and not to convey any broader obscene meaning. “In recent times even the top leaders of our government have used variants of these expletives in a manner that no reasonable person would believe referenced sexual or excretory organs or activities.”
Two years ago, Congress increased the potential maximum penalty for each indecency infraction to $325,000, from $32,500. Producers and writers have complained that the prospect of stiff fines had begun to chill their creative efforts.
Nothing is more creative than a line about excretory organs.
A Federal Appellate Court Panel in New York stunned the Bush Administration and the FCC by ruling that it’s OK for broadcasters to allow “fleeting expletives” to air with impunity. The decision could possibly gut the ability of the FCC to regulate any speech on radio or TV.
The decision was a victory for Fox, CBS, NBC and ABC, who filed suit against the high FCC fines against them for broadcasting expletives.
THE NEW YORK TIMES reports if President Bush and Vice President Cheney can blurt out vulgar language, then the government cannot punish broadcast television stations for broadcasting the same words in similarly fleeting contexts. So says the court.
Kevin J. Martin, the chairman of the F.C.C., said that the agency was now considering whether to seek an appeal before all the judges of the appeals court or to take the matter directly to the Supreme Court.
Under President Bush, the F.C.C. has expanded its indecency rules, taking a much harder line on obscenities uttered on broadcast television and radio. While the judges sent the case back to the commission to rewrite its indecency policy, it said that it was “doubtful” that the agency would be able to “adequately respond to the constitutional and statutory challenges raised by the networks.”
Mr. Martin, the chairman of the commission, attacked the panel’s reasoning.
“I completely disagree with the court’s ruling and am disappointed for American families,” he said. “The court says the commission is ‘divorced from reality.’ It is the New York court, not the commission, that is divorced from reality.”
He said that if the agency was unable to prohibit some vulgarities during prime time, “Hollywood will be able to say anything they want, whenever they want.”
Beginning with the F.C.C.’s indecency finding in a case against NBC for a vulgarity uttered by the U2 singer Bono during the Golden Globes awards ceremony in 2003, President Bush’s Republican and Democratic appointees to the commission have imposed a tougher policy by punishing any station that broadcast a fleeting expletive. That includes vulgar language blurted out on live shows like the Golden Globes or scripted shows like “NYPD Blue,” which was cited in the case.
But the judges said vulgar words are just as often used out of frustration or excitement, and not to convey any broader obscene meaning. “In recent times even the top leaders of our government have used variants of these expletives in a manner that no reasonable person would believe referenced sexual or excretory organs or activities.”
Two years ago, Congress increased the potential maximum penalty for each indecency infraction to $325,000, from $32,500. Producers and writers have complained that the prospect of stiff fines had begun to chill their creative efforts.
Nothing is more creative than a line about excretory organs.
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