Scrushy, Siegelman found guilty on federal conspiracy , bribery charges

A guilty verdict was reached today in Montgomery, Alabama, in the federal cases against both former Alabama Governor Don Siegleman and former HealthSouth Corp. CEO, Richard Scrushy.

Former Alabama Gov. Don Siegelman has been found guilty on 10 of 34 counts in a federal corruption trial, including bribery, conspiracy and eight counts of mail fraud. Siegelman's conspiracy conviction did not include a guilty verdict under the Racketeer Influenced Corrupt Organizations, or RICO, statute.

Former HealthSouth Corp. CEO Richard Scrushy, accused of buying his way onto the state's Certificate of Need review board, was convicted on all six charges he faced, including bribery, conspiracy and four counts of mail fraud.

The verdict was handed down today, after 11 days of deliberation, and 32 days of testimony.

Andy Bremmer, spokesman for HealthSouth Corp, had only a short comment to make. He said that HealthSouth Corp new management had worked the past 3 years to put the past behind them. He said Scrushy was part of the past and today's verdict had no impact on the future of the company. Scrushy has been acquitted in Birmingham 1 year ago on 36 criminal charges from a 6-year corporate fraud at HealthSouth.

Linked at Conservative Cat

Technorati Tags: Don Siegleman, Richard Scrushy, Alabama, Montgomery, Guilty, Federal corruption, Bribery, Conspiracy
, Mail Fraud

Four Pakistan men hanged for raping a Christian girl

7 years ago, four Pakistan men broke into a home for robbery. They held the young girl at gun point and took turns raping her. They threatened the father not to raise an alarm.

President Pervez Musharraf turned down their mercy plea, and they were hanged today.Their verdict had been upheld by a higher Islamic court. Their bodies were given to their relatives outside the jail after the hanging took place.

Christians are a minority in the largely Muslim Pakistan, and the two groups generally live together peacefully. However, violence against women, particularly "honour" killings, are often reported.

Linked at Conservative Cat
Thanks to Jo's Cafe
TMH's Bacon Bits - Bacon Break

Technorati Tags: Pakistan, Rape, Muslim, honour killings

What was all this about?

Putin Kisses Young Boy On The Stomach.

Russian President Vladimir Putin astonished a young boy when he stopped by during a walk through the Kremlin. Despite the current political pressures about Iran and the G8 summit scheduled to hold in Russia in two weeks, Putin still found it necessary exchange a word with the little boy before lifting his shirt to kiss him on the stomach.

Technorati Tags: Vladimir Putin, Russia

1,958 Evangelical Christians arrested in one year

The China Aid Association, which lobbies for religious freedom in China, released this information yesterday. They also published a detail report on anti-Christian persecution carried on by authorities in 15 provinces in China.

The report said: “Hardest hit by persecution are meetings of Christian pastors and teachers, viewed with particular hostility by the government whose aim is to control the indoctrination of new generations. There is endless proof of ill treatment and torture suffered by community leaders at the hands of police officers and religious affairs cadres."

Henan was the mostly badly hit province. They arrested 823 Christians in 11 raids. Also, 5 Americans were arrested during this 12 month period.Two women were made strip and interrogated. And, a disabled pastor had his ribs broken.

There are 10 million protestants in China that meet in 'house churches'. The Chinese are afraid that these believers will corrupt future generations.

The report said: “Local Chinese authorities have continually repressed religious activities that they determine to be outside the scope of the state-controlled religious system. Their decisions are often arbitrarily made in a manner inconsistent with the right to freedom of religion.”

Linked at Conservative Cat

Technorati Tags: China, Christian Persecution, Religious freedom, Christians

Are You one of those with HIV and don't know it?

Today is National HIV Testing Day. You can find a testing place near you here.

About 200,000 Americans are infected with HIV and don't know it, 850,000 to 950,000 Americans are HIV positive, and 40,000 people are newly infected each year in the USA, says the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If these figures are accurate, it means that about one quarter of all Americans who are HIV positive don't know it.

25 years ago today, 5 men from Los Angeles were found to have the disease. But, it was never revealed what the disease was. It was first thought that AIDS affected only men and drug addicts who used syringes. But, it has been found that AIDS is now growing even among heterosexual women and older people.

Who is at risk for having this disease? If you answer yes to any of the following questions, you need to be tested.

-- Have you ever injected drugs yourself? Were the needles, syringes, cotton or water shared with others?

-- Have you had unprotected sex with multiple partners, men who have sex with men, or anonymous partners? This includes vaginal, anal or oral sex.

-- Have you traded sex for money or drugs?

-- Were you ever treated for or diagnosed with hepatitis, TB or an STD (sexually transmitted disease)?

-- Did you have a blood transfusion or clotting factor during the period 1978-1985?

-- Have you had unprotected sex with anyone who might answer yes to one of the questions above?

Linked at Conservative Cat
Basil's Blog - Picnic 2006-06-28
Jo's Cafe - Specials of the Day

Technorati tags: HIV, AIDS, heterosexual, blood transfusion, hepatitis

The Life of Teenagers "Ain't No Joke"

Book Review
Author: Keith G. Wright
Publisher - ANJ Books, Miami Shores, FL
ISBN 0-8778342-0-4

Keith was born in the South, and brought up by a single Mom, who taught him to dream big dreams and aspire to be the best he could be.

No Joke Teen Truth #501: Remarkable teenagers, first and foremost, build a trusting relationship with their parents. They trust their parent’s intentions and influence in their lives, recognizing that the biggest push to their ultimate success will come from their parents.” – page 102

A teenagers’ life is hard. But, with good role models, their life can be one of success, as they come from teenage hood to adulthood. Parents play the biggest part in a teenager’s life. And, they will view the world through the eyes of their parents.

Wright has written this book in order to help teenagers become all they can be, regardless of the situation from which they may come. He went from the role of the people in the home who have a big influence on a teenager, to the peers with whom a teenager hangs out, to the Internet's influence, and on to shaking up the world by preparing oneself through education to be the best person they can become.

Wright tries to show teenagers, through the valuable ‘Teen Truths’, that they need to make every minute count of their childhood, because they never will get a second chance at it. He challenges teenagers to be a better person every day. - guard your life, learn from every day experiences, avoid the pitfalls along the way, and go out and conquer the world. The world will, one day, belong to the youth of today. We need strong leaders, and teenagers can make that difference in the world tomorrow. Wright has done a remarkable job in this respect, with all the Truths he has presented in his book.

The Life of Teenagers "Ain't No Joke", author Keith G.Wright, was published by ANJ Books, Miami Shores, Florida.

I highly recommend this book and give it 5 stars, because Keith Wright has successfully given teenagers many challenges to insure they have a ‘courageous childhood in an unforgiving world’.

My name is Barbara Sanders, homemaker, mother of two, and grandmother of five, from Alabama, book reviewer for Active Christian Media.

Technorati Tags: Active Christian Media, Book Reviewer

Coffee, Tea, and me!

I love to drink! Yes, you heard it right; I love to drink - coffee and tea, that is! I don't drink as much coffee as I once did, though, since it sometimes makes my heart race. But, it has never kept me awake as some claim it does for them.

But, my main drink is tea - decaffeinated always, unless I am in a restaurant or some place I can't get it. We got in the habit of drinking decaffeinated years ago, when our children were home. And, we've kept to that habit. I even had my granddaughter to ask about our tea awhile back. She loves it and wanted Mom to buy her the same kind of tea. Well, mine is also cheaper than what her Mom was buying.

I had an English grandmother who thought tea was the only drink there was. She, in fact, was the one that inspired me to 'drink' - tea, that is! I never saw a coffee pot in their home, since Papa and Granny both drank tea - hot tea! I can still see them sitting at the table, pouring that hot tea into the saucer, and then sipping it. That was their custom. I never got the hang of drinking from the saucer. I love the cup.

In my home, if you don't have a gallon of tea in the refrigerator, you better have a teapot with some brewed, getting cool, so you can put it in the refrigerator. My husband thinks I should always be sure we have tea ready. In fact, I came home from an entire day out a week or so ago, only for him to say, 'you didn't make any tea'. Hey, he had beat me home 3 hours, and he can't make a pot of tea? :) Well, I eventually did the honors!

At my web site, I also have a tea page, called, 'The English in Me, Tea!' Why not stop by and check it out. There are lots of links to some great teas. And, you will also find some good recipes.

Technorati Tags: Tea, English, Coffee

Christian leaders slam gay parade in Jerusalem

Heads of three prominent Jerusalem-based Christian organizations came against the decision to hold the gay parade in Jerusalem. They say it is only being held to provoke those that believe in biblical principles.

"It is clear that Jerusalem has been deliberately targeted not because it has any particular significance to the gay and lesbian community, but because of the supreme importance this city holds for those of biblical faith.

World Pride Organizers say it will go on as scheduled this summer. It is to be a week-long festival. It was scheduled to happen last summer, but the pull out in the Gaza strip caused it to be put off. Also, they have had much opposition from conservative Jewish, Christian, and Muslim religious leaders in Jerusalem and around the world.

"The World Pride event will take place in Jerusalem because we believe Jerusalem should be a center of tolerance, pluralism and humanity. Unfortunately, there are those who prefer Jerusalem to be fanatical, dark, pursuing strife and hatred," said Noa Sattath, chairperson of Jerusalem's Gay and Lesbian Center which is hosting the event.

Linked at Jo's Cafe - Tuesday Specials
Conservative Cat
Third World County

Technorati Tags: Jerusalem, Christians, World Pride, World Pride Parade

Graduate's Diploma Held After She Speaks About Her Faith

Erica Corder, Valedictorian of her graduating class in Colorado, gave her speech in which she talked about God and her faith. When she finished her speech, and graduation was over, she was escorted by a teacher to the assistant principal. She was told by the assistant principal that she would not get her diploma until she scheduled a meeting with the principal.

A few days later, Erica was asked by the principal to draft an e-mail to parents explaining that he had not approved or condoned her words. Her father said that wasn't all she was asked to write.

"He also asked her to include an apology for what she said," he said, "but she was not willing to do that, because this was something God had asked her to do."

She did draft a note that made it clear neither the principal nor the other valedictorians knew what she intended to say.

But, this wasn't enough for the principal. He asked her to add one more sentence: "I realize that, had I asked ahead of time, I would not have been allowed to say what I did."

Mat Staver, president and general counsel of Liberty Counsel, called such a requirement "outrageous."

"It's probably one of the most egregious things I've heard in terms of a graduation situation," he said. "I think it sends a horrible message not only to her, but also the other students, that what she did is illegal and shameful."

In fact, he said, she was completely within her constitutional rights to say whatever she wanted.

Staver said the school had no authority to hold her diploma. She had done her work required to graduate and should have gotten her diploma. He says what she did is protected by the Constitution. But, apparently, the school faculty didn't see things that way.

Linked at Conservative Cat

Technorati Tags: Colorado, High School Graduation, Valedictorian, Diploma, Principal, Constitution

Are Americans Too Friendly to be believed?

Reading Byrd Droppings 'More Flies With Honey', she suggested we read all about this over at Betsy's Page, which I could not turn down. I have always been taught that you can get more flies with honey than you can vinegar.

Seems Betsy came upon an article where an English journalist is in America. And, he cannot believe how friendly everyone is. In fact, when reading the column he wrote, 'Supposing....Americans are the nicest people on earth', I envisioned this smirky little guy, making fun of us Americans.

It seemed to me that even small talk was offensive to Charlie Brooker, when the people were nice. After all, he was not used to people offering to help him, without requiring anything. But, when they did, he was assured in his own mind that all they were after was a tip. So, he wasn't about to call the guy, who worked for the hotel where he was staying, in order to get the television fixed.

Now it's getting late. I'm in my room, typing this. There's a problem with the TV. But I don't call reception and ask them to send Frank up. We've already built a rapport in the corridor. Now he's my buddy, I'd feel uncomfortable expecting him to do chores for me. So I don't call him. He doesn't fix the TV. He doesn't get the tip. Spin on THAT,Frank!

I, for one, think this guy is stuck on himself, or he is a cheapskate! Or, perhaps he doesn't know how to handle friendliness! I know all British people aren't that way, since I've been friends with one for about 15 years!

Linked at Conservative Cat
Basil's Blog
TMH's Bacon Bits - Bacon Break
Cao's Blog - Sunday OTB

Technorati Tags: British, Americans, Friendliness, English Journalist

Where Is The Outrage?

Where is the outrage?!

I can understand E.D. Hill's outrage! Our soldiers do not get the benefit of the doubt (innocent until proven guilty). Too often, our soldiers, who are dying for us, are painted as monsters, murderers,when they have been sent to do a job that those doing most of the complaining would never do. And, then, not one bit of confidence is placed in these guys!

Linked at Conservative Cat
Basil's Blog

My first year of blogging

Today is the one year mark of my blog. And, I have to admit I am addicted! Friends say I’ve found my nitche, although I’ve had a web site for 10 years!

My first post was that of a death in my husband’s family of his oldest sister. Also, during June of last year, we were all blogging about the disappearance of Natalee Holloway. But, my last post of the year yesterday was Thank you, Tony Snow – one I’ve been waiting to write. Finally someone put Helen Thomas in her place. For this, I say KUDOS, Tony!

Here are some posts I’ve enjoyed writing this past year:

– Politics, Religion and Ann Coulter
– And, everyone is still writing About Ann Coulter!

– What Constitutes A Happy Marriage considering my husband and I will be married 42 years on July 6.

– Let us Pray
– Endangered Species
– I Love My Country
– Christ, Christmas, and the Constitution
– I Wouldn’t Change
– Book Review – Brokeness by Lon Solomon
– Spotlight on Good teens
– Old Age Is Coming To All of Us
– United We Stand, Divided We Fall
– Not All Is Equal In Our Land of Freedom
– Society Vs. God – In The Lives Of Women
– We Are God’s Workmanship

Linked at Conservative Cat
Blue Star Chronicles

Technorati Tags: Blog, Blogging

Thank you, Tony Snow!

I have been waiting for years to hear someone put Helen Thomas, the pestering news lady, in her place! I think it's time she retired. Perhaps she will, since we now have Tony Snow at the White House, conducting the news conferences!

Today, he asked her to stop pestering him while he was trying to explain the administration’s position on the surveillance of terrorist finances to the White House press corps. He got tired of her same old 'Helen Thomas' ways, and asked her to be quiet. Good for you, Tony! I knew you were up to the job!

See transcript between Snow and Thomas at The Raw Story.

HT: TMH's Bacon Bits

Linked at Conservative Cat
Basil's Blog

Technorati Tags: helen thomas, Tony Snow, Press Corps, White House

Attention, all Chocoholics!

Everyone loves chocolate, even me! But, I am not addicted as many people are.

Well, there has been a blow to chocolate bars, namely Cadbury. Cadbury has kept silent for six months upon finding salmonella in their chocolate bars. A spokesman for the Health Protection Agency said they should have been told immediately, since you never expect to find salmonella in chocolate bars.

There is an investigation going on as to just how salmonella ended up in the chocolate bars and why they weren't alerted immediately.

Cadbury’s denied yesterday that there had been a cover-up. A spokeswoman insisted that the recall was a precautionary measure because some chocolate might contain minute traces of salmonella and that there “was no risk to human health”.

A separate investigation has been started into a possible link between contaminated bars of Cadbury’s Dairy Milk chocolate and cases of food poisoning in babies and toddlers since March.

Cadbury recalled a million chocolate bars yesterday. They admitted the candy could have been contaminated with salmonella as long as back in January. But, they say that they were under no obligation to notify the agency, since the salmonella was in such small quantities, and there was only a small risk to humans. But, salmonella can be deadly. Looks like a case of waiting too long to report something that could have been very serious in nature. Now, it may hurt Cadbury's business.

Linked at Conservative Cat
Basil's Blog
TMH's Bacon Bits

Technorati Tags: Chocolate, Chocolate bars, Cadbury, Salmonella

I am part of the Fellowship of the Unashamed

Job 11:15 For then shalt thou lift up thy face without spot; yea, thou shalt be steadfast, and shalt not fear:

The following was written by a young African pastor and found after he died as a martyr for the Gospel.

I am part of the fellowship of the unashamed. The dye has been cast. The decision has been made. I have stepped over the line. I won't look back, let up, slow down or back away.

My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, my future is secure. I'm finished and done with selfish living, sight walking, small planning, "smooth knees," colorless dreams, tamed visions, mundane talking, cheap giving and dwarfed goals.

I no longer need pre-eminence, prosperity, position, promotions, plaudits, pity or popularity. I don't have to be right, first, tops, recognized, praised, regarded or rewarded. I live now by faith, lean on His presence, walk with His patience, live by prayer and labor with His power.

My face is set; my gait is sure; my goal is heaven; my road is narrow; my way is rough, my companions are few; my Guide is reliable; my mission is clear. I cannot be bought, compromised, detoured, lured away, turned back, deluded or delayed. I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the presence of the adversary, negotiate at the table of the enemy, ponder at the pool of popularity or meander in the maze of mediocrity because I have been sustained by Christ.

I won't give up, shut up, let up, until I have stayed up, stored up, prayed up, paid up, spoken up for the cause of Christ. I am a disciple of Jesus Christ. I must go till all know, and work till He stops me. And when He comes for His own, He will have no problem recognizing me. My banner is clear.

by Dr. Bob Moorehead

Prayer: Father thank you for sealing my banner in the fellowship of the unashamed. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen!

This was used by permission from BibleAnswers.US.

Linked at Conservative Cat
Basil's Blog Picnic 2006-06-22

Technorati tags: Gospel, Unashamed, Disciple, Jesus Christ

178 die in Indonesian floods and landslides

There have been rains since Monday, which has caused floods and landslides. Some think illegal logging has been a contributing factor in this. So far, it has cost 178 lives, and many are missing. They are feared to have been swept out to sea.

Seasonal downpours cause dozens of landslides and flash floods each year in Indonesia, where millions of people live in mountainous regions and near fertile flood plains close to rivers. Some environmentalists blame rampant deforestation, which they contend loosens soils on mountainsides.

Linked at Conservative Cat
Stuck on Stupid
TMH's Bacon Bits

Technorati Tags: Indonesia, Floods, Landslides

God, Move over! We know best

Mr. Minority has written a post on mainstream churches where God's Word no longer matters. The two churches mentioned are the Episcopal and Presbyterian churches.

I found this tidbit on the Internet from Birmingham, Alabama, where they just had The Presbyterian Church’s General Assembly. This denomination has passed a resolution to allow non-celibate gay and lesbian clergy.

The church decided with a vote 298 to 221 to let individual churches decide what would be accepted in their church. Although they decided that fidelity in marriage and chasity in being single is basis for ordination, they are letting each church decide if it is essential. Yet, they say they have kept in place a 1977 law that says clergy, lay people, and deacons must limit sexual activity to marriage.

Thirteen evangelical caucuses issued a joint statement that the assembly's actions "throw our denomination into crisis." They said this "marks a profound deviation from biblical requirements, and we cannot accept, support, or tolerate it. We will take the steps necessary to be faithful to God," the groups said.

Rev. Monie Blair, who chaired the committee on this issue, said, "This is not an 'anything goes' proposal. In fact, it will make the examination of officers more rigorous."

But, conservative delegates to the even disputed this.

Mr. Gagnon said the denomination had reached "a transition point" that broke from Jesus' teaching on man-woman monogamy.

Pro-homosexual youth delegate Jamie Moon of Oregon said she found the assembly debate disheartening. She said she became Presbyterian because "Jesus Christ was love. Jesus Christ was acceptance. He said come to me and be my disciple.

I suppose we can use the ‘wait and see’ attitude and find out how many other protestant churches are going to deviate from the written Word of God, and let man decide which pages to clip from the Bible.

Linked at Conservative Cat
Basil's Blog

Technorati Tags: Presbyterian Church, clergy, Celibate, Ordination, Gay, Homosexual, Lesbian

Global week of prayer for North Korea

There will be a Global Week of Prayer for North Korea, organized by British-based human rights organization Christian Solidarity Worldwide and partner agencies worldwide.

The week of prayer, running from June 19-25, will include prayer and protest against the human rights violations occurring in North Korea.

Christian Solidarity Worldwide believes that Christian persecution is at it's worse in North Korea. Information has become more readily available, although there is secrecy within North Korea. Many refugees are in China, but, when they are found by the officials, they are returned to North Korea, where they face punishment or even death.

CSW is encouraging all Christians around the world to pray during this week for the Christians of North Korea. But, especially pray on Sunday, June 25th, which is the anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War.

The prayer events planned for the week, CSW stated, are accompanied by advocacy and aid. Petitions, facilities to donate to aid work in North Korea and extensive resources to facilitate prayer can be found at www.prayfornorthkorea.org , or www.prayfornorthkorea.net in Korean.

In London, CSW reported the agency is encouraging people to join the protest outside the Chinese Embassy on June 22 at 3.45 p.m GMT.

Linked at Conservative Cat
Basil's Blog
Blue Star Chronicles

Technorati Tags: North Korea, Prayer, Human Rights Violations, Korean War, China

Americans Concerned about Duke Rape Case encouraged to contact NC

Michael J. Gaynor, independent columnist at The Post Chronicle, is encouraging those Americans, who are concerned with what has been going on in the Duke Rape case, to contact the Attorney General of NC, the NC Governor, and the Executive Director of the NC state bar.

Stuart Taylor, the top legal commentator, has looked into the case. He says that the prosecutor, Mike Nifong, is a rogue, not the lacrosse players. He feels the players have been wrongly accused.

"Then there is Mike Nifong, the Durham, N.C., district attorney who is prosecuting the case. In addition to the misconduct detailed in my April 29 column, he has shielded his evidence (if any) from public scrutiny while seeking to keep the rape charges hanging over the defendants by delaying any trial until next spring.

"Nifong and a certain Durham police officer should themselves be under criminal investigation, in my view, for what looks like possible intimidation of a disinterested defense witness, a cabbie who had been transporting one defendant at the time of the alleged rape."

Gaynor says that not only should rape cases be prosecuted to the fullest extent of law, but so should those that falsely accuse others of rape, and those that stand to profit from these false accusations.

The names and addresses of the Attorney General, Governor, and Executive Director of the NC state bar can be found at The Post Chronicle Opinion.

Linked at Conservative Cat
La Shawn Barber's Corner

Technorati Tags: lacrosse players, Durham North Carolina, Durham Rape Case, Mike Nifong

City takes illegal immigration problem into their own hands

Hazelton, PA has decided it is time to stop illegal immigration into their small town. So, they've decided to revoke the license of any business hiring an illegal and also fine a property owner $1,000 for renting to any illegal immigrant.

The mayor says they are destroying his city. When he took office in 2000, the hispanics represented only 5% of their city's population. Now, they are up to 30%. He says they are lured there by jobs and low rent. But, crime has risen in this small town.

City officials do not know how many of the new arrivals are in the United States illegally, but say they are fueling the drug trade, joining gangs and committing other crimes.

Municipal officials around the nation, frustrated at what they perceive as the federal government's inability to stem illegal immigration, have increasingly taken matters into their own hands.

The cities who are adopting this method are having to pick up the tab for all this. But, they are willing to do whatever it takes to clean up their cities. Seems the government is slowing down rather than going forward in doing something about the illegal traffic coming into our country.

Some Hispanics approve of the measure, saying they are fed up with crime and graffiti. "If I was mayor, I wouldn't let anyone in who had a criminal record," said Rafael Rovira, 69, a naturalized American citizen from the Dominican Republic.

But, then there others, such as Jose Lecuga, who came to the United States illegally in 1982, and received amnesty in 1986, who thinks the Mayor is confusing illegal people with criminals. I think this guy is confusing illegal with legal. He got his amnesty, even though he was illegal, and perhaps has told many people from his country - "Come on over here. There are jobs, and plenty of cheap housing. And, it's cheap living here." Otherwise, how do these people find these particular little towns in America, so far from the borders?

Linked at Conservative Cat
Basil's Blog

Technorati Tags: Pennsylvania, Illegal Immigrants, America, Hispanics, Crime

Faith sometimes brings persecution

This week in the Persecution Blog Carnival #5, Christian, Think wrote an article entitled “The Cost”, asking what your faith has cost you recently.

I know scripture says that all who live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. (II Timothy 3:12). But, has our faith cost us here in America anything like it has cost those in other parts of the world who confess Christ Jesus as their personal Saviour?

He shared about the two men who shared the Jesus film with a woman and her neighbors. They were reported, and as a result, they face 3 and 3 ½ years in prison for showing the Jesus film in a Buddist home in Bhutan.

These two Christian men are asking that their story be told in order to bring international pressure on the government of Bhutan to get their release. They were given 10 days for an appeal for bail recently, and fight the case with a good lawyer. But, they say the government is always right; we are always wrong. They believe there will be no winning the case unless there is intervention from “on high”.

Go here to contact the government officials and politely ask them to release Benjamin and John from prison. Benjamin is married and has 3 children. John is married and has one child.

Please do not be forceful or belligerent as such attitudes may cause the government of Bhutan to harden its stance towards these prisoners.

Linked at Conservative Cat
Basil's Blog
TMH's Bacon Bits - Bacon Break

Technorati Tags: Bhutan, Persecution, Faith, Buddhist

What's it like to be 64?

Paul McCartney, of Beatles fame is about to find out. When he was a teenager, he wrote "When I'm 64". Tomorrow, he will know for sure!

His second marriage is in turmoil, and the media is having a field day. In fact, his wife is about to sue one newspaper over allegations made of her past life.

McCartney may be having his problems right now, but he still has his fans who adore him. And, his daughters have planned a big barbecue in honor of his 64th birthday. Close friends and family will be invited to his estate in England for the occasion.

Linked at Conservative Cat
Basil's Blog

Technorati Tags: Paul McCartney, Beatles, Birthday, England

Who's Your Daddy?

My grandsons get a kick out of getting something on the other one, and saying, “Who’s your Daddy?” They’ve been with us for several weeks already this summer, and I’ve heard the quote numerous times. I can hear them giggling, just thinking about it!

Julie Gorin says there have been calls for schools to end Father’s Day, (some children have two mommies). She suggests we honor the Dad everyone has: the Divine.

She says “If only out of respect for your siblings who still love Him — and I'm asking as a sibling (or didn't you ever wonder how it is that there's less than 1% difference among all our DNA?).”

There is no shopping that has to be done for Father’s Day when you honor the Dad in heaven. All you have to do is give Him your time on Father’s Day.

I love what Julie said here:

Just think of all the jobs He has — and at His age. To name a few, He's a scientist, a construction worker, a mathematician, a cook, a therapist, and a designer (consider all the crazy-looking birds and fish — and the zebra). Dad gets great naches, by the way, from watching His offspring follow in his footsteps when we choose even one of His fields.

I am happy to call Him Father, or Daddy – whatever you would like. He has done so much for me and my family. And, I have to agree with Julie about ‘Daddy’ being a designer! He designed us – made us each one of a kind, and then threw away the mold! Oh, there are those that may look alike, but there are always differences to be found in each of us.

So, this Father’s Day (Sunday), whether you have an earthly Dad or not, or, if he’s not alive (mind isn’t), why not take time to honor your heavenly Father, the One who loved us so much, He gave His only Begotten Son for each of us!

So for those who aren't annoyed that He's still alive, out of respect, at least give Him a call. Either direct-dial at bedside or go to a medium, though I can't recommend those long-distance rates. You never know; a miracle could happen, which is just the Divine's way of saying, "Who's your daddy!"

Linked at Conservative Cat
Stuck On Stupid
TMH's Bacon Bits

Technorati Tags: Father's Day, Divine, God, Heavenly Father

Help for the persecuted Christians

We, in America, have the freedom to worship however we want. But, in many countries, people do not share that freedom. In fact, Christian persecution is growing by the day. More Christians have been martyred for their faith in the past 100 years than all combined in the past 1900 years.

It is to be informed, know how to pray and take action on behalf of today's Persecuted Church around the world. Christians face growing persecution in Indonesia, India, Burma, China, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Laos, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Pakistan, UAE, and many other countries. Tragically, in most cases, the persecution of Christians is seldom, if ever, reported by the mainstream media.

The Salem Voice Ministries headed by Pastor Paul Ciniraj Mohamed, the Director, is an organization to reach the gospel to those who are being persecuted. Pastor Mohamed is a former Muslim, and many times, his family has been persecuted since he was saved and called to the ministry over 30 years ago. They are helping Christians were the persecution is the most intense, with one being India which has the second largest population of Muslims in the world.

The Salem Voice Ministries have bought a piece of land to start a Cross Cultural Training and Rehabiliation Center for persecuted Christians in South India. They will teach the Bible and get believers ready for evangelism and missionary work.

Pastor Mohamed can be reached at Rev. Paul Ciniraj Mohamed, Salem Voice Ministries, Devalokam (P.O), Kottayam, Kerala-686038, INDIA. Also, his web site and email address is http://www.salemvoice.com email: ciniraj@asianetindia.com

Linked at Conservative Cat
Basil's Blog

Technorati Tags: Persecuted Christians, Freedom, The Salem Voice Ministries, Rehabilitation, India, Muslims

Bill Gates to give up 'day to day role' in Microsoft

Bill Gates, the software giant and one of the richest persons in the world, will be giving up his day to day role at Microsoft in 2 years. He will still be chairman of IT. He wants to spend more time at the Foundation, and on activities in the non-profit foundation.

Bill Gates was a high school dropout who made it big in the software industry. He is only 50 years of age, and says this doesn't mean retirement for him. He and his wife, Melinda, have been spending more time the past few years at the Foundation, which has activites in all parts of the world, including Africa and India.

Linked at Conservative Cat

Technorati Tag: Bill Gates, Microsoft

China Rejects US criticisms on religious freedom

China says the US Congress should tend to their own problems and settle their own human rights issues. They say that the US resolutions that criticizes China for religous persecution is ungrounded, and also is interfering with their affairs.

Chinese citizens enjoy full and broad freedom of religious belief in accordance with the law," Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Jiang Yu told a news conference, adding that China expressed its "strong dissatisfaction" with the resolutions.

Since President Bush's visit to China and attending a Christian service in Beiijing, the US has taken a bigger interest in China's religious affairs. This also followed on the hills of Pope Benedict's public censure of China for installing bishops without the approval of the Holy See.

China has some 10 million Catholics who are split between an underground church loyal to the Holy See and the official church, whose members lack formal ties to the Vatican.

It also has thousands of Christian "house churches" springing up in the countryside in the shadows of official tolerance.

Technorati Tags: China, Religious Persecution, Catholics

Billions feared stolen from hurricane relief

Millions of dollars have been paid by the government in bogus payments to supposed 'hurricane victims'. The money has gone for such things as football tickets, vacations, and a divorce lawyer.

Congressional investigators have found that prisoners, a supposed victim who used a cemetery for a home address and a person who spent 70 days at a Hawaiian hotel all were able to wrongly get taxpayer help.

It is believed that 16% of the money spent in the aftermath of Katrina and Rita was unwarranted. Testimony will be given today at the hearings of the House of Representatives Homeland Security subcommittee on investigations.

An undercover agent was given money, even after being found he did not live at the address he had provided. There have been all kinds of misuse of the money, including paying people twice, both for being housed in a hotel while being given money for rental assistance. And, on top of that, FEMA cannot establish that 750 debit cards actually went to the Katrina victims.

Linked at Conservative Cat

Technorati Tags: Hurrican relief, Katrina, Rita, Bogus payments, FEMA

Karl Rove off the hook

Special prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald has informed Rove's lawyer, Robert Luskin, that Rove will not face any criminal charges during the investigation into the leak of CIA officer Valerie Flame's name to reporters.

This has lifted a heavy burden from Rove, who is trying to focus on halting Bush's fall in popularity, and keep the Democrats from taking over the House of Representatives or the Senate in the November election.

Linked at Conservative Cat
TMH's Bacon Bits - Bacon Break
Stuck on Stupid - Open Post Wednesday

Technorati Tags: Karl Rove, Valerie Flame, CIA, Investigation

Who is right and Who is wrong?

In a world with diversity, you are going to find someone standing up for things you do not believe in. There will be challenges that seem to undermine your Bible beliefs. This is not a perfect world, and, while we live here, we are going to have to show agape love in a world filled with hate.

Christianity Today Magazine has an article entitled "Stand Up, Stand Up for Wicca". And, to those of us who profess Christianity, this sounds like a wrong trying to be shown as a right. But, here's the kicker:

According to federal guidelines, only approved religious symbols—of which there are 30—can be placed on government headstones or memorial plaques. Included among the 30 approved symbols are those that represent such mainstream religions as Christianity, Judaism, Islam and Hinduism. The list also includes more obscure religions like Konko-Kyo Faith and Seicho-No-Ie. And while the list does not include a symbol for the Wiccan faith, incredibly enough, it does include symbols for atheism and humanism.

This all stems from a widow of a Sgt. trying to get the Wiccan symbol placed on his placque. He identifed himself as a Wiccan. I am in no way advocating recognizing Wiccan as a religion. But, it's wrong to discriminate against one, and remember all the others. Besides, a symbol only shows that a person holds to certain beliefs.

I was talking to someone last night about 'religion'. I made the comment that religion can be 'anything' and anyone can claim religion. But, it's salvation which gains you entrance into eternity with God.

Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

HT: Blogging Ottinger

Linked at: Conservative Cat
Basil's Blog
Third World County
Adam's Blog

Technorati Tags: Diversity, Discrimination, Christianity, Religion, Wicca

Beach Sunbathers Beware!

Do you feel safe on the beach sunbathing? Oh, I did, too, when we used to go to the beach every summer. We'd play in the water, lay on the beach, or play with the kids in the sand. But, after reading this article, I think backyard sunbathing would be much safer!

OXNARD, Calif. -- Authorities say two police officers patrolling the beach in an SUV ran over and killed a sunbather in Oxnard, Calif.

Linked at Conservative Cat
Basil's Blog

Technorati Tags: Beach, Sunbathing

Al-Zarqawi Autopsy Report released

An autopsy was performed on Al-Zarqawi and his spiritual advisor, Sheik Abdul-Rahman, in order to keep down misinformation and propaganda. It gives them a definitive answer as to the specific cause of death.

If you remember, there were reports that U.S. Soldiers were seen beating his body and 'blood came out of his nose'. But, the autopsy report states he died from lung injuries.

“Blast waves from the two bombs caused tearing, bruising of the lungs and bleeding,” he said. “There was no evidence of firearm injuries.”

U.S. troops arrived at 6:40 p.m. and found Iraqi police at the site. He said a coalition medic treated al-Zarqawi, who lapsed in and out of consciousness.

“At 7:04 p.m. on 7 June, Zarqawi was dead,” Caldwell said.

Linked at Conservative Cat
Basil's Blog
Blogging OutLoud

Technorati tags: Al-Zarqawi, Autopsy, Death

Only In America!

Where else but America can a person who has been convicted of a robbery end up suing his intended victims?

Dana Buckman entered the Rochester, NY, AutoZone with a pistol and demanded money. But, he was unprepared for two employees beating him with a pipe and holding him at bay with his own gun. But, when they went inside to call 911, he escaped. He was caught a week later and plead guilty to first degree robbery. He got 18 years, because he was a repeat violent felon.

So now Buckman is suing the employees of AutoZone and the store because he says they "committed assault and battery and intentionally inflicted emotional distress."

This will be a case to watch. Are we not able to defend ourselves? Does a criminal have any rights, when he/she is in the process of a robbery? Stay tuned, and we will see!

Linked at Basil's Blog - Picnic 2006-06-11

Technorati Tags: Robbery, Victims, AutoZone, Assault

Vietnamese Mother of Three Arrested for following God

Three weeks ago, three young boys, ages 11, 8, and 5, were abandoned when the Vietnamese police arrested their mother and her mother-in-law for refusing to join the Communist church headed by Siu Kim. Rahlan H'Riem, mother of the boys, says that the church worships Ho Chi Minh.

Rahlan has been summoned and interrogated six times in the past year by Vietnamese police from Krong Pa district in Tran The Chanh. She was told she must worship in the church of Siu Kim, or she will be put in prison. She was summoned in May to explain her faith, and she refused, so she was arrested. Apparently, she chose not to deny Christ, for this, she must suffer. Her husband had fled to the United States to try and attempt to resettle his family, who had been been persecuted.

Christian believers say they have not seen a picture of Jesus, Mary, or the cross in the church. And, they are unable to put a cross on a grave. They are told to put on flowers, and anyone putting on a cross will be arrested.

There are at least 350 other prisoners, and the international community is urged to intervene for all of these believers. The Vietnamese police have denied any wrongdoings. But, they have accused the prisoners of 'following Western religion' and supporting the U.S. during the Vietnam war, rights groups say.

Linked at Conservative Cat
TMH's Bacon Bits - Bacon Break
Stuck on Stupid
UnCooperative Blogger
Jo's Cafe - Weekend Specials

Technorati Tags: Vietnamese, Vietnam, Communist, Christians, Church, Worship, Siu Kim

Persecution Blog Carnival #4 Is Up

The Christian Persecution Blog has Carnival #4 up today, and you will not be disappointed in all the good posts. Hopefully, more bloggers will want to blog for the persecuted church, after reading these posts.

If you are interested in blogging for the persecuted church, check out the information on the VOM Persecution Blogosphere Program. You are only required to put up a banner on your site showing you are taking part in Voice of the Martyrs program, and agree to do two posts a month about the persecuted church.

Linked at Conservative Cat

Technorati Tags: Persecution Blog Carnival, Voice of the Martyrs, Persecuted Church

Persecution of Indonesia's Christians on the rise

Ann Buwalda, director of the Jubilee Campaign in Virginia, says that persecution of Christians is on the rise in Indonesia. And, it’s a real concern.

Jubilee Campaign says that rapid growth of Christians in Indonesia has caused Muslims to claim Christianity must be resisted with force. Only one can guess what kind of force they mean!

Indonesia has the world’s largest population of Muslims. The U.S. Department’s report on international religious freedoms say that Indonesia’s government is among the nations that have enacted discriminatory legislation or policies prejudicial to certain religions.

A bill proposed by lawmakers in the Province of Aceh would impose Sharia law on all non-Muslims, and Buwalda notes that other legislation recently passed by the Indonesian government could be restrictive to Christians. She says government officials in Indonesia have not stood behind the state's promises of greater freedom for its religious minorities.

Buwalda says Jubilee Campaign is asking Christians in America "to write their congressmen and their senators and encourage efforts to protect the Christian minorities."

Technorati Tags: Persecution, Indonesia, Christians, Muslims

Deserter or Dissenter? You decide

My husband was drafted into the Army in the '60's, but chose to go to the Air Force instead, for four years - 'his' choice. And, when it came time to go to Vietnam, he obeyed orders. We understood what the consequence could be, but we held on to faith that he would return. Never was there a thought of dereliction of duty!

So many men chose to skip their duty back then, and ran off to Canada, or deserted their base. But, the brave went to war, many of them lost their lives. And, today, we have an officer who is refusing to go to war in Iraq. But, one thing different here is the way he got into the service. First Lt. Ehren K. Watada wasn't drafted, but chose to join the military. He knew what lay ahead; yet, he chose to go. But, now, when confronted with time in Iraq, he's decided it's not for him. In fact, when Watada found out he might have to be deployed, he sent a letter to his commander, wanting to resign, but was refused the opportunity to do so.

There is also vehement disagreement. Rebecca Davis, cofounder of Military Families Voice of Victory, issued a statement saying that "as a mother of three sons who have served honorably in Iraq and Afghanistan, I am demanding the Army prosecute Lt. Watada to the fullest extent under the Uniform Code of Military Justice."

Watada's refusal "will surely encourage al-Qaida in Iraq to continue terrorizing the Iraqi people and attacking U.S. and coalition forces," she said. Columnist Michelle Malkin called Watada a "deserter, not a dissenter," on her Web site.

Command Sgt. Maj. Michael D. Hayes, with the Military Police Brigade at Schofield Barracks and a veteran of Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan, said he "could not hold" his tongue any longer.

"(Some) individuals are attempting to lift Lt. Watada up as some kind of hero or martyr, which in reality he is not. ... He is a dishonorable man and should be court-martialed," said Hayes, who said he was speaking as an individual and not on behalf of the Army.

Watada's parents, attorney, supporters for him, and anti-war groups met in Hawaii's Capitol conference room. There were people who met to back him emotionally and vocally, but there were also those that did not uphold what he has done.

Watada's father said "we have to bring our troops home". He is saying that Vietnam was occupied until "members of the military stood up and said they were not going to fight any longer." But, his son's next step will be to refuse to board a plane when his troops are sent to Iraq. And, when he does, he will face a court-martial, and possible years in prison. Is it worth it?

Hal, over at The Bullwinkle Blog, has some great suggestions for Watada, since his father said he was 'very noble'.

Linked at Conservative Cat
Church and State - Midweek Open Trackback
Basil's Blog

Technorati Tags: Deserter, Dissenter, Iraq War, Lt. Watada

Instapundit and Armadillos

The question was asked over at The Alliance, “Why does Evil Glenn hate armadillos so much?” Well, I have no idea, since I can’t read his mind, or know his heart. Perhaps they’ve uprooted his flower garden? Maybe they’ve made holes all through his lawn, and he’s turned his ankle? Gave his dog leprosy?

What I do know is this: Glenn said something that I didn’t know until I read the article. He said that armadillos carry leprosy. Well, knowing me, I have to check it out – no, I’m not from Missouri, the ‘show me state’ , but I want to know if something is right or wrong. So I checked out his information, and he is correct! Guess where the Nine-Banded Armadillo migrated from? MEXICO! And, can you believe Texas has adopted this armadillo as it’s official state mammal? Neither could I, but they have. Well, they have come across country to Alabama, but I have yet to see a ‘live’ one – most are killed in ‘road rage’, and left as ‘road kill’.

Technorati Tags: Armadillos, Instapundit, Mexico, Texas

In God We Trust

Phil Hartman, over at Poster Child 4 Grace, posted a question in his post of May 29th. The question was “When was the last time you sang or heard The Star Spangled Banner? And, “When was the last time you sang or heard verses 2, 3, and 4 of The Star Spangled Banner”.

Phil had posted the 4th verse to The Star Spangled Banner on his site.
Here it is:

Verse 4 of The Star-Spangled Banner

O thus be it ever when free-men shall stand

Between their lov'd home and the war's desolation;

Blest with vict'ry and peace, may the heav'n-rescued land

Praise the Pow'r that hath made and preserv'd us a nation!

Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,

And this be our motto: “In God is our trust!”

And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave

O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!

I truthfully do not ever remember singing that last stanza, but, I am sure we did in the ninth grade. But, just reading it on Phil’s site today, and reading what Francis Scott Key wrote back in 1814 made the quotation “In God We Trust” much more meaningful. Seems this phrase has really offended many who want to remove God or anything religious from society. Oh, it’s okay to hide it from others, say it in private, share it in churches or home, but, heaven forbid, that we use that phrase where others might be offended, as in public, and especially on our money! After all, it is handled by those that don’t believe in a God.

Psalms 4:5 says “put your trust in the Lord”. This means having all confidence in Him. It means letting God direct your paths, when you really want to direct them yourself. It means trusting God completely, when you feel He isn’t paying any attention to your needs or your wants. In other words, it means letting God arrange your priorities, rather than you making decisions without consulting Him, who is ‘able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us’. (Ephesians 3:20).

Linked at Conservative Cat
TMH's Bacon Bits - Bacon Break
Basil's Blog - Picnic 2006-07-06

Technorati Tags: Star Spangled Banner, In God We Trust, Francis Scott Key

Explosive Facts

Thomas Sowell has a great recommendation for students to read during their summer vacations. It is a book called "Conservative Comebacks to Liberal Lies" by Gregory Jackson. It gives hard facts about things on which the politicians and the media put their spin.

The book goes literally from A to Z, with 26 chapters covering subjects from abortion to zealots who are terrorists.

There are both statistical and historical facts in the book. Among the historical facts is the truth that there is absolutely nothing in the Constitution about 'separation of church and state'.

Over the years, liberal judges have twisted the First Amendment's phrase about "free exercise of religion" to mean the opposite — that you are not free to exercise your religion if atheists or members of non-Christian religions say that they are offended.

Another fact debunked is that of President Bush's intelligence up against that of Kerry or Gore. Seems President Bush and Kerry both went to Yale, but President Bush had a higher grade point average than Kerry. President Bush also had higher scores on the same intelligence tests taken in the military by both he and Kerry. Also, Gore went to Harvard, where he was in the bottom 5th of his class two years in a row. But, you'd never know this the way he is preceived by the liberal media.

Visit Conservative Comebacks and read the liberal lie of the day.

Linked at Conservative Cat
TMH's Bacon Bits - Bacon Break

Technorati Tags: Thomas Sowell, Conservative, Liberal, Constitution, Truth

he talk like a white boy Author - Joseph C. Phillips

‘He talk like a white boy’ was given to me by Running Press, through Active Christian Media, for a book review. This is one of the best and most interesting books I have read during my time of reviewing. And, it has been the hardest book of which to write a review.

The statement ‘he talk like a white boy’, the young girl made in his classroom that day stayed with me throughout the entire book. I was aquainted with him as an actor on The Cosby Show many years ago. We still watch reruns of that show to this day! And, I never saw him as ‘different’, although others did. He seemed to have been a very well-adjusted young man, well-spoken, and he has proven he is capable of doing most anything he sets his mind and heart to do. And, there, I think is where he makes his point about life and living.

He considers himself a conservative republican, and has had to take flack from those who think he should have been ‘more black’ than he is. I am sure this was their way of letting him know he was getting a little 'too white' in his talk, thinking, and ways of doing things to be 'one of them'. But, Phillips rose above all that, thanks to his upbringing by his parents. He chose the path to success, a better way of life, not blaming others if he failed – the way he thinks other blacks have chosen to blame others for their failures,, and think people or the government owes them anything. I am white, and I have the same beliefs, but for whites, who use every excuse to get a dollar from government – even able-bodied people who are too lazy to get off their duffs and do a job, even if it meant menial work. Nobody starts on the top at any job, though many think they deserve to do just that! And, I believe it is wrong of anyone to think the world owes them a living, no matter what their color, if they are not willing to try and help themselves!

I put so many bookmarks in this book and thought I would reflect back on portions to help me do a review. But, when I finished reading today, I was no closer to being able to use the excerpts than when I first started. The author has lived a life I have never lived, heard things that most of us will never hear; yet, he has risen above all the barriers to become a success on many different levels. He is an actor, columnist, author, husband, father, and above all, he says he is a Christian. Undoubtedly, his faith has sustained him when nothing else could.

Phillips and his wife have chosen to enrich the lives of their children by being honest and forthright with them, sharing with them things that has happened down the years in the lives of blacks, but not making that a way of life. He believes that “personal responsibility will do more for the black and the poor than treating us as physically handicapped people.” He understands his children did not invent this world we all live in, but they have to live in it as citizens of America. He says, “Life is best seen through the prism of love, togetherness, and devotion. And, I believe he and his wife will undoubtedly bring up some happy, well-adjusted children that might some day again hear ‘he talk like a white boy’. But, speaking correctly and rising above the expectations of others should never be considered ‘white only’. It belongs to anyone for the taking! And, Joseph Phillips is a great example!

I highly recommend this book. For me, it was not a fast read, but also hard to put down. And, I do not believe anyone will be disappointed when they buy and read this book!

Linked at Conservative Cat

Technorati Tags: Joseph C Phillips, Author, he talk like a white boy

Amber alert for 4 day old Lubbock Baby Girl

Priscilla Nicole Maldonado disappeared about 1:10 PM Sunday afternoon. She was abducted by a woman who has befriended the Mother while she was in the hospital. She posed as a nurse, but there is no indication she was an employee at the hospital. And, nobody knew the woman, who identifed herself as Lisa Stewart.

The baby girl has been diagnosed with jaundice and is in need of medical care.The woman took the baby and disappeared as the mother, Erica Ysasaga,Jo's Cafe - Monday Specials
turned to take care of her two year old.

Police described the woman they were seeking in the disappearance as white, between the ages of 30 to 40, weighing 140-150 pounds and having dirty blond hair.

They also were looking for a red Pontiac four-door car and a white van, which were seen in the area of the disappearance in central Lubbock.

The baby was wearing only a diaper and socks, and wrapped in a blue receiving blanket, when she was taken.

UPDATE: A woman fitting the description of the woman who took the baby has been arrested. She was reported by the Lubbock Heart Hospital as fitting the description. She was arrested for unauthorized use of a stolen car from Abilene.

A hunt for the baby is still underway.

Linked at Jo's Cafe - Monday's Specials

Linked at Blogging Outloud

Technorati Tags: Amber Alert, Lubbock, Texas

Bush Backs Federal Marriage Amendment

In his Saturday Radio address, President Bush pushed for the Federal Marriage amendment to be passed in Congress. He believes that a healthy marriage between a woman and a man promotes the welfare of our children and the stability of society. He decided to dedicate his speech today to this issue because it comes up for a vote in the Senate next week.

"Marriage cannot be cut off from its cultural, religious and natural roots without weakening this good influence on society."

The resolution has little chance of passing in the Senate. The Democrats think that their time is being wasted on this issue. The proposal needs 2/3 support in the Senate and House, and then 38 states legislatures would have to ratify it.

In his radio address, Bush struck back at judges who have overturned state laws similar in intent to the proposed legislation.

"Unfortunately, activist judges and some local officials have made an aggressive attempt to redefine marriage in recent years," the president said.

Bush said there is broad consensus in America to protect the institution of marriage.

Lamda legal's Marriage Project Director, David Buckel, says this resolution, if passed would brand all lesbians and gay people as inferior. He said it would give people license to discriminate against them. But, President Bush says this would fully protect the institution of marriage, and it would leave all state legislatures free to make their decisions on legal arrangments for all outside marriage.

Linked at Conservative Cat

Technorati Tags: Federal Marriage Amendment, President Bush, Senate, Democrats

Tell Me The State Won't Allow This!

Robert Kosilek was convicted of strangling his wife, Cheryl, in 1990, in Massachusetts. He is said to suffer from a 'gender identity disorder'. He is seeking a sex-change operation from the state through a federal judge. His lawyers thinks he might try suicide, if he isn't allowed to have this operation.

In 2002, U.S. District Judge Mark Wolf ruled Kosilek was entitled to treatment for gender identity disorder, but he stopped short of ordering the state to pay for a sex-change operation.

Kosilek has sued The Department of Correction, because psychiatrists, including 2 of their department experts, thinks the sex-change operation is necessary. Is this only to keep him from committing suicide?

Kosilek now goes by the name Michelle. He has been undergoing hormone treatment, and Dr.Brown, a psychiatrist, says that his depression and anxiety has improved. But,Dr. Brown also says he feels that 'she would kill herself', if she doesn't have the sex-change operation.

Corrections officials fear Kosilek could be a target for assault by returning as a woman to the all-male, medium-security prison in Norfolk, McFarland said. If Kosilek is transferred to the women's prison in Framingham, there are concerns about risk to female inmates there.

During the 2002 trial, Kosilek testified to having gender identity disorder since age 3, attempting suicide twice and attempting self-castration.

Two psychiatrists will testify that Kosilek functions "at a very high level" and that a sex-change operation is not medically necessary, McFarland said.

Why should the tax payers have to pay for a convicted killer to have a sex-change operation? Do we now put criminals into prison and give them everything they desire, and foot the bill?

Linked at Conservative Cat

Technorati Tags: Kosilek, Sex Change , Massachusetts

LET'S PARTY!!

Drum Roll!!!

Welcome Home, MomRN2's Little Angel!