My e-mail to the Federal Communications Commission: fccinfo@fcc.gov
As a parent of teenagers, I am offended by the TV ads for Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra. When they say they are for use with "your partner" instead of "your spouse", they are promoting the idea that intercourse outside of marriage is appropriate when it is morally wrong and causes transmission of STDs. I especially object to the Cialis ad when it says "erections longer than four hours..." I don't want my kids to hear such things. Can't we as parents let our kids be innocent a while longer? Do we have to expose them to this?
I also hate the Viagra ad with its "We are the Champions" background music while men are acting victorious. Sex is not a sports contest. Women are not to be a "score" where points are counted. It is supposed to be sacred. This ad also gives kids the wrong idea.
Bush Overtakes Kerry
"Too liberal" tag sticking to Kerry
Gallup News Service
Will the Bishops Confront Kerry?
by Terence P. Jeffrey
Will the Bishops Confront Kerry?
John F. Kerry, the first Roman Catholic presidential nominee since John F. Kennedy, may be heading for a confrontation with some bishops of his own church.
In an article about Kerry's religion this week, Time magazine quoted the candidate describing himself as a "believing and practicing Catholic." ...
No less as a President, than as a senator, than as a candidate, Kerry has free will. He can advocate any agenda he wishes. But if it violates the natural law, the bishops have a right and a duty to hold him accountable.
Getting sick, tired of Kerry
He is already on record as lying about his cancer condition last year — first denying the condition, then admitting it when the fact could not be avoided. Even The Washington Post yesterday reported: "Kerry, 60, who appeared athletic and robust during his recent skiing holiday, has nonetheless faced medical issues in the past year that have raised questions about his overall health." When The Washington Post puts its corporate teeth into a candidate on a personal matter — that's not good news for the politician.
No Joke.
Tony Snow commented on the Rush Limbaugh show today that "Instead of writing a new constitution, we ought to give Iraq our constitution since our courts aren't using it now."
Al Jazeera Touts Clarke Testimony
Among the media outlets most impressed with former Clinton terrorism chief Richard Clarke's effort to torpedo President Bush's re-election bid is Al Jazeera, better known in the West as the al-Qaida News Network.
Mass. Governor Spars With AG Over Gay Marriage
BOSTON - Gov. Mitt Romney ran into resistance from his attorney general Tuesday after arguing that gay marriage should be put on hold for at least another 2 1/2 years now that lawmakers have backed a ban on same-sex weddings.
Missouri Pro-Life Bill Would Collect Annual Abortion Information
Jefferson City, MO (LifeNews.com) -- Pro-abortion forces claim there are many reasons why pregnant women seek abortions. But, in Missouri, a state lawmaker is asking the abortion industry to provide some documentation. State Senator Chuck Gross (R-St. Charles) is sponsoring a bill that would require abortion businesses to report the reasons women give for having abortions. Backers of the measure say that it would help lawmakers make better public policy decisions regarding abortion.
Wednesday, March 31, 2004
Tuesday, March 30, 2004
What does 'Judeo-Christian' mean?
Dennis Prager
The battle over whether America remains Judeo-Christian or becomes secular like Europe is what this, the Second American Civil War, is about.
Senator Wayne Allard/Congresswoman Marilyn Musgrave announce revision of their Federal Marriage Amendment
The authors of the Federal Marriage (constitutional) Amendment (FMA), Congresswoman Marilyn Musgrave, (R-CO), and Senator Wayne Allard, (R-CO) held a press conference to announce a wording change in their FMA. It is now: "Marriage in the United States shall consist only of the union of a man and a woman. Neither this Constitution, nor the constitution of any State, shall be construed to require that marriage or the legal incidents thereof be conferred upon any union other than the union of a man and woman."
KERRY TELLS VATICAN TO BUTT OUT
"I don't tell church officials what to do, and church officials shouldn't tell American politicians what to do in the context of our public life." Senator John Kerry, Democratic candidate for president, in an interview with Time posted on the magazine's Web site. Kerry is Roman Catholic, but his support for abortion rights is at odds with Vatican teachings.
The Private Passion
Armstrong Williams
The founding fathers had very definite views about keeping a proper distance between government and religion. Thomas Jefferson worried that if our leaders could punish sin, the law could become a straightjacket to individual liberties. Conversely, John Adams worried about the corrupting influence government might have on religious practice.
1999: Clarke Did Not Testify Under Oath; Citing Privilege
National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice on Monday continued to maintain her public testimony before the panel investigating the Sept. 11 attacks would represent a breach of separation between congress and the executive -- a claim once used by Bush critic Richard Clarke!
Chicago, L.A. towers were next targets
Khalid Shaikh Mohammed, al Qaeda's purported operations chief, has told U.S. interrogators that the group had been planning attacks on the Library Tower in Los Angeles and the Sears Tower in Chicago on the heels of the September 11, 2001, terror strikes.
Those plans were aborted mainly because of the decisive U.S. response to the New York and Washington attacks, which disrupted the terrorist organization's plans so thoroughly that it could not proceed, according to transcripts of his conversations with interrogators.
...The terrorists seem to have been surprised by the strength of the American reaction to the September 11 attacks.
Major Anti-Terror Bust in U.K.
LONDON — Huge anti-terror busts in and near London Tuesday led to the arrest of eight men and the seizing of half a ton bomb-making material.
The Myth of a Jobless Recovery
The alleged failure of the economy to create jobs is an illusion that stems from a survey of employment conducted each month by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), commonly known as the payroll survey. The payroll survey has problems measuring the modern workforce and contains a unique methodological problem: It systematically overcounts the jobs of many workers when they change employers. But worker turnover has declined significantly since the 1990s, artificially deflating payrolls.
Will the Real Unemployment Rate Please Stand Up?
Even pessimists know that 5.6 percent unemployment is close to what economists consider the "natural" rate or the non-accelerating inflation rate of unemployment. As a metric, the rate of unemployment is comparable to body temperature in that a sudden spike upwards is a powerful signal of ill health. But after a fever breaks, coming back to the normal level is healthy, and going much lower has risks of its own.
Dennis Prager
The battle over whether America remains Judeo-Christian or becomes secular like Europe is what this, the Second American Civil War, is about.
Senator Wayne Allard/Congresswoman Marilyn Musgrave announce revision of their Federal Marriage Amendment
The authors of the Federal Marriage (constitutional) Amendment (FMA), Congresswoman Marilyn Musgrave, (R-CO), and Senator Wayne Allard, (R-CO) held a press conference to announce a wording change in their FMA. It is now: "Marriage in the United States shall consist only of the union of a man and a woman. Neither this Constitution, nor the constitution of any State, shall be construed to require that marriage or the legal incidents thereof be conferred upon any union other than the union of a man and woman."
KERRY TELLS VATICAN TO BUTT OUT
"I don't tell church officials what to do, and church officials shouldn't tell American politicians what to do in the context of our public life." Senator John Kerry, Democratic candidate for president, in an interview with Time posted on the magazine's Web site. Kerry is Roman Catholic, but his support for abortion rights is at odds with Vatican teachings.
The Private Passion
Armstrong Williams
The founding fathers had very definite views about keeping a proper distance between government and religion. Thomas Jefferson worried that if our leaders could punish sin, the law could become a straightjacket to individual liberties. Conversely, John Adams worried about the corrupting influence government might have on religious practice.
1999: Clarke Did Not Testify Under Oath; Citing Privilege
National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice on Monday continued to maintain her public testimony before the panel investigating the Sept. 11 attacks would represent a breach of separation between congress and the executive -- a claim once used by Bush critic Richard Clarke!
Chicago, L.A. towers were next targets
Khalid Shaikh Mohammed, al Qaeda's purported operations chief, has told U.S. interrogators that the group had been planning attacks on the Library Tower in Los Angeles and the Sears Tower in Chicago on the heels of the September 11, 2001, terror strikes.
Those plans were aborted mainly because of the decisive U.S. response to the New York and Washington attacks, which disrupted the terrorist organization's plans so thoroughly that it could not proceed, according to transcripts of his conversations with interrogators.
...The terrorists seem to have been surprised by the strength of the American reaction to the September 11 attacks.
Major Anti-Terror Bust in U.K.
LONDON — Huge anti-terror busts in and near London Tuesday led to the arrest of eight men and the seizing of half a ton bomb-making material.
The Myth of a Jobless Recovery
The alleged failure of the economy to create jobs is an illusion that stems from a survey of employment conducted each month by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), commonly known as the payroll survey. The payroll survey has problems measuring the modern workforce and contains a unique methodological problem: It systematically overcounts the jobs of many workers when they change employers. But worker turnover has declined significantly since the 1990s, artificially deflating payrolls.
Will the Real Unemployment Rate Please Stand Up?
Even pessimists know that 5.6 percent unemployment is close to what economists consider the "natural" rate or the non-accelerating inflation rate of unemployment. As a metric, the rate of unemployment is comparable to body temperature in that a sudden spike upwards is a powerful signal of ill health. But after a fever breaks, coming back to the normal level is healthy, and going much lower has risks of its own.
Monday, March 29, 2004
The Passion of the Christ is up to a take of $315,020,000!
Christ Movie Sparks Neo-Nazi Confession in Norway
OSLO (Reuters) - A Norwegian neo-Nazi has confessed to two bombings a decade ago after a pang of repentance triggered by watching Mel Gibson's controversial film "The Passion of the Christ."
Johnny Olsen, 41, went to police after watching the movie about the death of Christ to admit that he was behind the previously unexplained bombings against anarchist squatters in Oslo in the mid-1990s.
"The trigger that made him go to police and confess was that movie," his lawyer, Fridtjof Feydt, told Reuters Monday. He said his client had long been concerned with issues such as reconciliation and redemption.
NYERS: CLARKE'S GAIN, OUR PAIN
A group of New York families of 9/11 victims came out swinging against Richard Clarke yesterday, accusing the former White House anti-terror chief of cashing in on the tragedy with his explosive book.
Christ Movie Sparks Neo-Nazi Confession in Norway
OSLO (Reuters) - A Norwegian neo-Nazi has confessed to two bombings a decade ago after a pang of repentance triggered by watching Mel Gibson's controversial film "The Passion of the Christ."
Johnny Olsen, 41, went to police after watching the movie about the death of Christ to admit that he was behind the previously unexplained bombings against anarchist squatters in Oslo in the mid-1990s.
"The trigger that made him go to police and confess was that movie," his lawyer, Fridtjof Feydt, told Reuters Monday. He said his client had long been concerned with issues such as reconciliation and redemption.
NYERS: CLARKE'S GAIN, OUR PAIN
A group of New York families of 9/11 victims came out swinging against Richard Clarke yesterday, accusing the former White House anti-terror chief of cashing in on the tragedy with his explosive book.
Who says this can't happen in the US?
Canadian Bill could criminalize Scriptures
Portions of the Bible are in danger of being condemned as hate literature, say religious groups opposed to changes in the Criminal Code to be debated next week by the Senate.
In a letter to Justice Minister Irwin Cotler, the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops said Friday that Bill C-250 proposes changes that could lead to the church being prosecuted for its teaching that "sexual conduct between people of the same sex is morally wrong."
Child Porn Bust
Kiddie Porn Crackdown Nabs Teachers, Doctors, Ministers
Canadian Bill could criminalize Scriptures
Portions of the Bible are in danger of being condemned as hate literature, say religious groups opposed to changes in the Criminal Code to be debated next week by the Senate.
In a letter to Justice Minister Irwin Cotler, the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops said Friday that Bill C-250 proposes changes that could lead to the church being prosecuted for its teaching that "sexual conduct between people of the same sex is morally wrong."
Child Porn Bust
Kiddie Porn Crackdown Nabs Teachers, Doctors, Ministers
Kerry: People Born Gay But Shouldn't Be Married
WASHINGTON — Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry (search) says he believes people are born gay but are not guaranteed the right to marry within their own gender.
Obviously Kerry does not understand apologetics. Protestants accuse Catholics of "works righteousness" and "earning salvation". I bet his audience at New North Side Baptist Church heard what Kerry said in a different way than what Kerry thought they would. Kerry probably doesn't get it about "saved by faith alone" since he is a so-called "Catholic".
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,115451,00.html
Kerry Criticizes Leaders Who Have 'Faith' but 'No Deeds'
ST. LOUIS — John Kerry cited a Bible verse Sunday to criticize leaders who have "faith but has no deeds," prompting President Bush's (search) spokesman to accuse Kerry of exploiting Scripture for a political attack.
Kerry cited Scripture in his appeal for the worshippers, including James 2:14, "What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds?" "The Scriptures say, what does it profit, my brother, if someone says he has faith but does not have works?" Kerry said. "When we look at what is happening in America today, were are the works of compassion?"
Kerry, what do you call Social Security and welfare and free health care, etc...? Where is Kerry's compassion when it comes to unborn babies that their mom's "choose" to kill?
Vatican Worries About Kerry
"John Kerry's support for abortion and gay marriage, both condemned as mortal sins by the Roman Catholic Church, is raising serious concerns in the Vatican over the clear apostasy of a nominal American Catholic politician."
"Moreover, when Kerry campaigned in Missouri in February, St. Louis Archbishop Raymond Burke publicly warned him "not to present himself for Communion" — an ostracism, Time explained, that Canon Law 915 reserves for "those who obstinately persist in manifest grave sin." A defiant Kerry told Time that regarding his planned trip to St. Louis last Sunday, "I certainly intend to take Communion and continue to go to Mass as a Catholic."
Maybe that is why Kerry went to New North Side Baptist Church instead of the cathedral when he was in St. Louis this weekend.
Mona Charen says:
To tell the truth
The Kerry campaign has a new ad out suggesting that President Bush has "cut key education programs by 27 percent." According to the Annenberg Political Fact Sheet, they derived this figure by comparing the amount Congress had wanted to spend on the No Child Left Behind bill with what the president finally signed. That isn't a "cut," that is a dispute over how much to increase spending.
In fact, President Bush has increased federal spending by 58 percent — a larger increase than President Clinton presided over and one that some of us very much regret. It is also peculiar to raise this particular criticism (false though it is) in an ad whose overall point is that Bush has ballooned (yes, this word has apparently become a verb) the deficit.
Courts to Hear 3 Abortion-Ban Challenges
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) -- A historic legal battle over abortion begins in courtrooms coast to coast Monday as three federal judges take up requests to derail the first substantial congressional limitation on abortion since the Supreme Court's landmark Roe v. Wade decision.
The simultaneous litigation centers on legislation President Bush signed last year banning a type of late-term abortion: what lawmakers defined as "partial-birth" abortion and what doctors call "intact dilation and extraction" - or D&X.
WASHINGTON — Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry (search) says he believes people are born gay but are not guaranteed the right to marry within their own gender.
Obviously Kerry does not understand apologetics. Protestants accuse Catholics of "works righteousness" and "earning salvation". I bet his audience at New North Side Baptist Church heard what Kerry said in a different way than what Kerry thought they would. Kerry probably doesn't get it about "saved by faith alone" since he is a so-called "Catholic".
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,115451,00.html
Kerry Criticizes Leaders Who Have 'Faith' but 'No Deeds'
ST. LOUIS — John Kerry cited a Bible verse Sunday to criticize leaders who have "faith but has no deeds," prompting President Bush's (search) spokesman to accuse Kerry of exploiting Scripture for a political attack.
Kerry cited Scripture in his appeal for the worshippers, including James 2:14, "What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds?" "The Scriptures say, what does it profit, my brother, if someone says he has faith but does not have works?" Kerry said. "When we look at what is happening in America today, were are the works of compassion?"
Kerry, what do you call Social Security and welfare and free health care, etc...? Where is Kerry's compassion when it comes to unborn babies that their mom's "choose" to kill?
Vatican Worries About Kerry
"John Kerry's support for abortion and gay marriage, both condemned as mortal sins by the Roman Catholic Church, is raising serious concerns in the Vatican over the clear apostasy of a nominal American Catholic politician."
"Moreover, when Kerry campaigned in Missouri in February, St. Louis Archbishop Raymond Burke publicly warned him "not to present himself for Communion" — an ostracism, Time explained, that Canon Law 915 reserves for "those who obstinately persist in manifest grave sin." A defiant Kerry told Time that regarding his planned trip to St. Louis last Sunday, "I certainly intend to take Communion and continue to go to Mass as a Catholic."
Maybe that is why Kerry went to New North Side Baptist Church instead of the cathedral when he was in St. Louis this weekend.
Mona Charen says:
To tell the truth
The Kerry campaign has a new ad out suggesting that President Bush has "cut key education programs by 27 percent." According to the Annenberg Political Fact Sheet, they derived this figure by comparing the amount Congress had wanted to spend on the No Child Left Behind bill with what the president finally signed. That isn't a "cut," that is a dispute over how much to increase spending.
In fact, President Bush has increased federal spending by 58 percent — a larger increase than President Clinton presided over and one that some of us very much regret. It is also peculiar to raise this particular criticism (false though it is) in an ad whose overall point is that Bush has ballooned (yes, this word has apparently become a verb) the deficit.
Courts to Hear 3 Abortion-Ban Challenges
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) -- A historic legal battle over abortion begins in courtrooms coast to coast Monday as three federal judges take up requests to derail the first substantial congressional limitation on abortion since the Supreme Court's landmark Roe v. Wade decision.
The simultaneous litigation centers on legislation President Bush signed last year banning a type of late-term abortion: what lawmakers defined as "partial-birth" abortion and what doctors call "intact dilation and extraction" - or D&X.
Thursday, March 25, 2004
U.S. Benefiting From China's Boom
Americans are concerned about exporting jobs to China. But closing the door to trade is going to mean a growing number of Americans who now depend on China for a paycheck, could lose their jobs.
I wish I could send this article to the Supreme Court.
A Nation of States, Under God
Founders Did Not Envision Separation of Religion and State
Wow! I'm glad I'm married to a Catholic!
Muslim Clerics on the Religious Rulings Regarding Wife-Beating
Americans are concerned about exporting jobs to China. But closing the door to trade is going to mean a growing number of Americans who now depend on China for a paycheck, could lose their jobs.
I wish I could send this article to the Supreme Court.
A Nation of States, Under God
Founders Did Not Envision Separation of Religion and State
Wow! I'm glad I'm married to a Catholic!
Muslim Clerics on the Religious Rulings Regarding Wife-Beating
Wednesday, March 24, 2004
Defend the Bush Economy, Stupid!
By Stephen Moore
One of the great mysteries of this campaign season is why the Republicans are so defensive about the economy. The Kerry Democrats’ mantra is that 2 million jobs have been lost on George W. Bush’s watch. But this allegation is misleading at best. The new economic data from the Commerce Department show conclusively that the economic contraction began in the third quarter of 2000, at least six months before Bush took office. Bush inherited a recession from Clinton, and job losses were baked in the cake before a single Bush economic policy was implemented.
Even when Clinton ran for re-election in 1996 celebrating good times, the misery index stood at 8 percent. Under Bush, the number now stands at 7.8 percent.
Truth and Consequences
Has our war on terror actually been "ineffective"? Shortly after the 9/11 attacks, experts and pundits predicted we would be hit again—and soon. We have not been. This is due to two things: We have taken domestic security measures to investigate, disrupt, and imprison terrorists in our country—notwithstanding Democratic attempts to smear the Attorney General who has directed most of these internal security measures. And we have disrupted terrorists abroad, from Afghanistan to the Middle East, including in Iraq.
Because of President Bush—and no president before him—Osama bin Laden is either dead or on the run; and when terrorists are on the run, they cannot easily plan attacks. We have killed or captured two-thirds of the al-Qaeda leadership and, for the first time in over a decade, marginalized the modern world's Ur-terrorist, Yasser Arafat. It was Arafat who taught the world the use of hijacking airliners for political purposes. During the Clinton Administration it was he who visited the White House more than any other foreign leader. Arafat has not been offered one meeting, handshake, or embrace by President Bush.
Responding to Clarke. A What-If Scenario
Jay Bryant
If Richard Clarke had written a book about the lack of an effective anti-terrorism policy in the Clinton administration, things sure would be different.
Judge Permits Testimony About Fetus Pain in Abortion Trial
I'd be offended too.
Black Clergy Brush Off Gay Marriage Link
To equate a lifestyle choice to racism demeans the work of the entire civil rights movement," the statement said. "People are free in our nation to pursue relationships as they choose. To redefine marriage, however, to suit the preference of those choosing alternative lifestyles is wrong."
Only faithful, married couples could adopt foster kids under new bill (03/18/04)
JEFFERSON CITY (MO) - The bill states no child can be placed with an individual in a sexual relationship outside of wedlock. The bill's sponsor, Republican Jack Jackson, says he wants to insure that foster children are in two-parent homes.
We Americans argue a lot. We even devote radio and cable news channels to arguing. But most of us also seem to be searching desperately for some agreement. That's how this diverse nation holds itself together, and religion serves us best when it helps us find that common ground.
One God, Under Fire
Fifty years has produced a much different America since the first time the Pledge of Allegiance was uttered on behalf of a nation “under God.” And a half century after those two words were added, on Wednesday the Supreme Court will hear arguments to decide whether God is still welcome within our Pledge.
Religion would serve us best by unifying the nation
Beyond a commonly held regard for morality and spirituality, national agreement on religion pretty much ends and the great divide begins, Zogby says. We are two separate, distinct nations, his polling tells him. "In fact, the motto of this forum should be, 'e pluribus duo,' " he said.
By Stephen Moore
One of the great mysteries of this campaign season is why the Republicans are so defensive about the economy. The Kerry Democrats’ mantra is that 2 million jobs have been lost on George W. Bush’s watch. But this allegation is misleading at best. The new economic data from the Commerce Department show conclusively that the economic contraction began in the third quarter of 2000, at least six months before Bush took office. Bush inherited a recession from Clinton, and job losses were baked in the cake before a single Bush economic policy was implemented.
Even when Clinton ran for re-election in 1996 celebrating good times, the misery index stood at 8 percent. Under Bush, the number now stands at 7.8 percent.
Truth and Consequences
Has our war on terror actually been "ineffective"? Shortly after the 9/11 attacks, experts and pundits predicted we would be hit again—and soon. We have not been. This is due to two things: We have taken domestic security measures to investigate, disrupt, and imprison terrorists in our country—notwithstanding Democratic attempts to smear the Attorney General who has directed most of these internal security measures. And we have disrupted terrorists abroad, from Afghanistan to the Middle East, including in Iraq.
Because of President Bush—and no president before him—Osama bin Laden is either dead or on the run; and when terrorists are on the run, they cannot easily plan attacks. We have killed or captured two-thirds of the al-Qaeda leadership and, for the first time in over a decade, marginalized the modern world's Ur-terrorist, Yasser Arafat. It was Arafat who taught the world the use of hijacking airliners for political purposes. During the Clinton Administration it was he who visited the White House more than any other foreign leader. Arafat has not been offered one meeting, handshake, or embrace by President Bush.
Responding to Clarke. A What-If Scenario
Jay Bryant
If Richard Clarke had written a book about the lack of an effective anti-terrorism policy in the Clinton administration, things sure would be different.
Judge Permits Testimony About Fetus Pain in Abortion Trial
I'd be offended too.
Black Clergy Brush Off Gay Marriage Link
To equate a lifestyle choice to racism demeans the work of the entire civil rights movement," the statement said. "People are free in our nation to pursue relationships as they choose. To redefine marriage, however, to suit the preference of those choosing alternative lifestyles is wrong."
Only faithful, married couples could adopt foster kids under new bill (03/18/04)
JEFFERSON CITY (MO) - The bill states no child can be placed with an individual in a sexual relationship outside of wedlock. The bill's sponsor, Republican Jack Jackson, says he wants to insure that foster children are in two-parent homes.
We Americans argue a lot. We even devote radio and cable news channels to arguing. But most of us also seem to be searching desperately for some agreement. That's how this diverse nation holds itself together, and religion serves us best when it helps us find that common ground.
One God, Under Fire
Fifty years has produced a much different America since the first time the Pledge of Allegiance was uttered on behalf of a nation “under God.” And a half century after those two words were added, on Wednesday the Supreme Court will hear arguments to decide whether God is still welcome within our Pledge.
Religion would serve us best by unifying the nation
Beyond a commonly held regard for morality and spirituality, national agreement on religion pretty much ends and the great divide begins, Zogby says. We are two separate, distinct nations, his polling tells him. "In fact, the motto of this forum should be, 'e pluribus duo,' " he said.
Tuesday, March 23, 2004
Tinsel town's jaw must be on the floor by now.
The Passion of the Christ 36.43% $295,507,244
Rave Review for The Passion by Vittorio Messori
"'The Passion' … for Its Author, Is a Mass"
In Massachusett's Court first ok's Gay Marriage, now incest
GAY REV.'S 'FOE' GLAD TO LOSE
Morning-after' pill may prove difficult to get, survey finds
By Matthew Franck
If an informal survey of 250 pharmacies in Missouri is any indication, women in the state could have a hard time filling prescriptions for "morning-after" birth control.
Nominating Kerry -- Is Democrat Buyers’ Remorse Inevitable?
David Limbaugh
Sins of Commission
Behind the effort to blame Bush for September 11.
The 9/11 Commission has instead been driven from the start by meaner political calculations: To appease the demands of those (few) victims' families looking for someone to blame, and to provide a vehicle to embarrass the Bush Administration. ...
There is a profound contradiction at the heart of this 20-20 hindsight. On the one hand, the critics want to blame the Bush Administration for failing to prevent 9/11, but on the other they assail it for acting "pre-emptively" on a needless war in Iraq. Well, which do they really believe?
Al-Zawahri Says Al Qaeda Has Nuke Bombs -Biographer
SYDNEY (Reuters) - Al Qaeda's second-in-command Ayman al-Zawahri claims the militant Islamic organization has bought briefcase nuclear bombs on the central Asian black market, according to Osama bin Laden's biographer.
The U.N. Oil for Food scandal
Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry complains that President Bush pursued a unilateralist foreign policy that gave short shrift to the concerns of the United Nations and our allies when it came to taking military action against Saddam Hussein. But the mounting evidence of scandal that has been uncovered in the U.N. Oil For Food program suggests that there was never a serious possibility of getting Security Council support for military action because influential people in Russia and France were getting paid off by Saddam. After the fall of Baghdad last spring, France and Russia tried to delay the lifting of sanctions against Iraq and continue the Oil for Food program. That's because France and Russia profited from it: The Times of London calculated that French and Russian companies received $11 billion worth of business from Oil for Food between 1996 and 2003.
Richard Clarke's misfire
by Rich Lowry (3/22)
It seems one of the least plausible criticisms of a president who's often portrayed as one of the world's greatest warmongers since Caesar Augustus -- that George Bush has been too weak on the War on Terror.
The Passion of the Christ 36.43% $295,507,244
Rave Review for The Passion by Vittorio Messori
"'The Passion' … for Its Author, Is a Mass"
In Massachusett's Court first ok's Gay Marriage, now incest
GAY REV.'S 'FOE' GLAD TO LOSE
Morning-after' pill may prove difficult to get, survey finds
By Matthew Franck
If an informal survey of 250 pharmacies in Missouri is any indication, women in the state could have a hard time filling prescriptions for "morning-after" birth control.
Nominating Kerry -- Is Democrat Buyers’ Remorse Inevitable?
David Limbaugh
Sins of Commission
Behind the effort to blame Bush for September 11.
The 9/11 Commission has instead been driven from the start by meaner political calculations: To appease the demands of those (few) victims' families looking for someone to blame, and to provide a vehicle to embarrass the Bush Administration. ...
There is a profound contradiction at the heart of this 20-20 hindsight. On the one hand, the critics want to blame the Bush Administration for failing to prevent 9/11, but on the other they assail it for acting "pre-emptively" on a needless war in Iraq. Well, which do they really believe?
Al-Zawahri Says Al Qaeda Has Nuke Bombs -Biographer
SYDNEY (Reuters) - Al Qaeda's second-in-command Ayman al-Zawahri claims the militant Islamic organization has bought briefcase nuclear bombs on the central Asian black market, according to Osama bin Laden's biographer.
The U.N. Oil for Food scandal
Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry complains that President Bush pursued a unilateralist foreign policy that gave short shrift to the concerns of the United Nations and our allies when it came to taking military action against Saddam Hussein. But the mounting evidence of scandal that has been uncovered in the U.N. Oil For Food program suggests that there was never a serious possibility of getting Security Council support for military action because influential people in Russia and France were getting paid off by Saddam. After the fall of Baghdad last spring, France and Russia tried to delay the lifting of sanctions against Iraq and continue the Oil for Food program. That's because France and Russia profited from it: The Times of London calculated that French and Russian companies received $11 billion worth of business from Oil for Food between 1996 and 2003.
Richard Clarke's misfire
by Rich Lowry (3/22)
It seems one of the least plausible criticisms of a president who's often portrayed as one of the world's greatest warmongers since Caesar Augustus -- that George Bush has been too weak on the War on Terror.
Thursday, March 18, 2004
Perhaps some lessons have been learned from the Episcopal Church?
Methodist Church Tries Minister for Living in Lesbian Relationship
Here are some good sites that show the relationship of economics to politics.
Answers for the 'swing voter'
Larry Elder
A moderate friend -- aka "swing voter" -- recently sent me a letter, in which he raised his objections about President Bush.
An old Japanese rerun
Alan Reynolds
When people talked about the U.S. "exporting jobs" jobs a decade ago, they always assumed the jobs had moved to Japan and Germany. Why? Because those countries exported more than they imported, and thus had chronic trade surpluses. They still do.
I'm facinated with Protestant's discussion of the Movie - The Passion of Christ. I find their comments about Mary's role in Jesus' life very fascinating. Perhaps they are beginning to see what Catholics see? May they also come to love Jesus the way Mary did. Here are a couple of discussion boards on this. Browse till your curiosity is satisfied.
Here's a post at "What was the most memorable scene for you?" forum.
"The scenes between Jesus and Mary were extremely powerful to me. The lighthearted one when He was a carpenter....and the one where He fell as a child and she ran to help Him. Both of those were so beautifully contrasted with the harsh moments of HIs scourging and crucifixion."
For example, here are comments at "The Passion..." You've Seen It - Let's Talk" at http://forums.christianity.com/html/P891007/?page=last#last
"I think that the film gave us a very sensitive view of what it was like for Jesus' mother- even in its tiny snipets where she appears in this film..... not so much her sorrow as her willingness to submit to go along with God's plan, even at the cost of great pain to her heart. That she was so willing; and loved the Father so much that she was ready to stand back in the shadows and watch it all play out according to God's unseen plan. Don't we all have moments that are in some way a version of Mary's call to submit? And we go through those times with suffering and great pain , not being able to see the greater good to come. Like Mary, we have only the heart of submission, and trust to see it through. And yes; I enjoyed the scene where she fixes him lunch, and she gently and lovingly teases Him about washing his hands... and he splashes his mamma with the water in return! We sometimes forget that Jesus was also His mother's big baby boy ... that he must have been more endearing to her than any of our grown up sons could ever be. We forget that Jesus laughed, he joked, he told funny stories [in parables that seemed to captivate his listeners], He was clever in the most human sense."
"I have a question about Mary in the movie. I got distracted for a moment when she was... either praying or thinking out loud I'm not sure but she said something about her son... I think it was during the scourging scene? Do you (or anyone) recall what I'm talking about? Was that when she was praying to God saying that she was submitting to HIS will for her son to go through this?"
Genetic Screening Encouraging More Abortions, Social Worker Warns
-- She Sees Health Care Moving Toward Eugenics Mentality
Doe told the Globe and Mail newspaper that women obtaining genetic screening are often expected -- and pressured -- to abort their pregnancies when a fetal abnormality or disability is diagnosed. And the professor says there is widespread acceptance in the western world for the idea that the disabled unborn should not be brought to full term.
She noted that in the case of diagnoses for Down Syndrome, "about 89 percent [of parents] in Canada and 90 percent in the U.S. opt to terminate the pregnancy."
Methodist Church Tries Minister for Living in Lesbian Relationship
Here are some good sites that show the relationship of economics to politics.
Answers for the 'swing voter'
Larry Elder
A moderate friend -- aka "swing voter" -- recently sent me a letter, in which he raised his objections about President Bush.
An old Japanese rerun
Alan Reynolds
When people talked about the U.S. "exporting jobs" jobs a decade ago, they always assumed the jobs had moved to Japan and Germany. Why? Because those countries exported more than they imported, and thus had chronic trade surpluses. They still do.
I'm facinated with Protestant's discussion of the Movie - The Passion of Christ. I find their comments about Mary's role in Jesus' life very fascinating. Perhaps they are beginning to see what Catholics see? May they also come to love Jesus the way Mary did. Here are a couple of discussion boards on this. Browse till your curiosity is satisfied.
Here's a post at "What was the most memorable scene for you?" forum.
"The scenes between Jesus and Mary were extremely powerful to me. The lighthearted one when He was a carpenter....and the one where He fell as a child and she ran to help Him. Both of those were so beautifully contrasted with the harsh moments of HIs scourging and crucifixion."
For example, here are comments at "The Passion..." You've Seen It - Let's Talk" at http://forums.christianity.com/html/P891007/?page=last#last
"I think that the film gave us a very sensitive view of what it was like for Jesus' mother- even in its tiny snipets where she appears in this film..... not so much her sorrow as her willingness to submit to go along with God's plan, even at the cost of great pain to her heart. That she was so willing; and loved the Father so much that she was ready to stand back in the shadows and watch it all play out according to God's unseen plan. Don't we all have moments that are in some way a version of Mary's call to submit? And we go through those times with suffering and great pain , not being able to see the greater good to come. Like Mary, we have only the heart of submission, and trust to see it through. And yes; I enjoyed the scene where she fixes him lunch, and she gently and lovingly teases Him about washing his hands... and he splashes his mamma with the water in return! We sometimes forget that Jesus was also His mother's big baby boy ... that he must have been more endearing to her than any of our grown up sons could ever be. We forget that Jesus laughed, he joked, he told funny stories [in parables that seemed to captivate his listeners], He was clever in the most human sense."
"I have a question about Mary in the movie. I got distracted for a moment when she was... either praying or thinking out loud I'm not sure but she said something about her son... I think it was during the scourging scene? Do you (or anyone) recall what I'm talking about? Was that when she was praying to God saying that she was submitting to HIS will for her son to go through this?"
Genetic Screening Encouraging More Abortions, Social Worker Warns
-- She Sees Health Care Moving Toward Eugenics Mentality
Doe told the Globe and Mail newspaper that women obtaining genetic screening are often expected -- and pressured -- to abort their pregnancies when a fetal abnormality or disability is diagnosed. And the professor says there is widespread acceptance in the western world for the idea that the disabled unborn should not be brought to full term.
She noted that in the case of diagnoses for Down Syndrome, "about 89 percent [of parents] in Canada and 90 percent in the U.S. opt to terminate the pregnancy."
Victory in the culture war
But just when you might think all is lost, along comes a secret weapon – a "Lethal Weapon," if you will.
Gibson breaks Hollywood's 10 Commands
The Passion of the Christ's gross is up to $270,706,537.
How could they sink so low?
Boy Nearly Becomes Youngest Mideast Bomber
JERUSALEM — Eleven-year-old Abdullah Quraan almost became the youngest bomber used by an armed Palestinian group.
But this boy didn't know what he was being asked to do.
This is what happens when the pill is used by one group and not the other.
Hispanic, Asian populations to triple by 2050
The U.S. population will be generally older, with child-bearing rates remaining low as baby boomers -- those born between 1946 and 1964 -- begin to turn 65 in 2011. By 2030, about one person in five will be 65 or older.
Druggists opposing abortion could be shielded
By Matt Franck
JEFFERSON CITY (MO) - Pharmacists in Missouri who oppose abortion could refuse to fill prescriptions for "morning-after" birth control without risking their jobs, under a bill that many say signals a new battleground in the fight over reproductive rights.
Pro-Kerry Historian: Kerry Lies About Anti-war Activities
Kerry said he hasn't spoken to former anti-war associate Al Hubbard since the two men appeared side by side on national television in April 1971, but according to author Gerald Nicosia, that assertion is wrong. So is Kerry's insistence that he did not attend a November 1971 meeting of Vietnam Veterans Against the War, at which group members discussed the possibility of assassinating U.S. senators who were still supporting the war in Vietnam, Nicosia said.
The reign in Spain falls mainly on the lame
Ann Coulter
After a terrorist attack by al-Qaida that left hundreds of their fellow countrymen dead, Spanish voters immediately voted to give the terrorists what they want – a socialist government that opposes America's war on terrorism. Al-Qaida has changed a government.
Linking Al-Qaida and Iraq
Jonah Goldberg
As it becomes increasingly clear that al-Qaida was responsible for the horrific attacks in Madrid, one question keeps popping up: If there's no link between 9/11 and the invasion of Iraq, why did al-Qaida blow up those trains?
Suit claims 'family values' not 'homophobic'
"Citizens should retain the right to criticize alternative sexual lifestyles without fear of retaliation or retribution," Lively contends.
But just when you might think all is lost, along comes a secret weapon – a "Lethal Weapon," if you will.
Gibson breaks Hollywood's 10 Commands
The Passion of the Christ's gross is up to $270,706,537.
How could they sink so low?
Boy Nearly Becomes Youngest Mideast Bomber
JERUSALEM — Eleven-year-old Abdullah Quraan almost became the youngest bomber used by an armed Palestinian group.
But this boy didn't know what he was being asked to do.
This is what happens when the pill is used by one group and not the other.
Hispanic, Asian populations to triple by 2050
The U.S. population will be generally older, with child-bearing rates remaining low as baby boomers -- those born between 1946 and 1964 -- begin to turn 65 in 2011. By 2030, about one person in five will be 65 or older.
Druggists opposing abortion could be shielded
By Matt Franck
JEFFERSON CITY (MO) - Pharmacists in Missouri who oppose abortion could refuse to fill prescriptions for "morning-after" birth control without risking their jobs, under a bill that many say signals a new battleground in the fight over reproductive rights.
Pro-Kerry Historian: Kerry Lies About Anti-war Activities
Kerry said he hasn't spoken to former anti-war associate Al Hubbard since the two men appeared side by side on national television in April 1971, but according to author Gerald Nicosia, that assertion is wrong. So is Kerry's insistence that he did not attend a November 1971 meeting of Vietnam Veterans Against the War, at which group members discussed the possibility of assassinating U.S. senators who were still supporting the war in Vietnam, Nicosia said.
The reign in Spain falls mainly on the lame
Ann Coulter
After a terrorist attack by al-Qaida that left hundreds of their fellow countrymen dead, Spanish voters immediately voted to give the terrorists what they want – a socialist government that opposes America's war on terrorism. Al-Qaida has changed a government.
Linking Al-Qaida and Iraq
Jonah Goldberg
As it becomes increasingly clear that al-Qaida was responsible for the horrific attacks in Madrid, one question keeps popping up: If there's no link between 9/11 and the invasion of Iraq, why did al-Qaida blow up those trains?
Suit claims 'family values' not 'homophobic'
"Citizens should retain the right to criticize alternative sexual lifestyles without fear of retaliation or retribution," Lively contends.
Wednesday, March 17, 2004
Passion Viewers Passionate About the Movie
Three in four Americans have seen or expect to see it. As of March 12, only 11% have seen it. If the latest Gallup Poll is any indication, Mel Gibson's movie, The Passion of the Christ, is likely to be among the highest grossing films of all time.
Morton Kondracke: Could 'Passion' film have political fallout?
Protestants are seeing the handwriting on the wall....
Christian Leaders: Calif. Ruling Attacks Religious Freedom
"This case presents a picture of the Catch-22 that some would use to hamstring faith-based organizations," Stevens said in a written release. "On one hand, they fight laws that would allow faith-based organizations to restrict hiring to those who follow its religious teachings. Then on the other hand, as soon as a faith-based organization hires others, they say it's no longer a faith-based organization and loses religious and conscience freedoms. The hypocrisy is stunning -- but not surprising..."
Give them your two cents worth.
Informed Choice Act
Bill # H.R.195
Requires each grant recipient to undertake certain actions, including to: (1) provide to each woman receiving services a visual image of the fetus from the ultrasound examination and a general anatomical and physiological description of the characteristics of the fetus; and (2) provide information on abortion and alternatives to abortion such as childbirth and adoption, and information concerning public and private agencies that will assist in those alternatives.
'Laci and Conner's law' passes major hurdle
Kerry opposes unborn-victims act as threat to abortion rights.
Feminist U.S. Senators Dehumanize Unborn Victims Of Violence
by Rev. Louis P. Sheldon, Chairman, Traditional Values Coalition
Washington, DC - Senator Diane Feinstein (D-CA) and Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) are both determined to make sure that unborn babies who are killed during the commission of a federal crime receive no justice under the law.
Gay Anglican Bishop Says He'd Like to Marry
You have to register (free) to the Los Angeles Times, but this article is worth the effort.
Family Matters
Marriage is based on procreation, a fact no claim of gay 'equality' can avoid
By Douglas R. Kmiec
You can't have social programs without raising taxes. There is no such thing as a free lunch. Where is the money to come from in a state that is going broke?
Mo. Catholic bishops denounce plan to cut medicaid
Linking Al-Qaida and Iraq
The connection between al-Qaida and Iraq is obvious for anybody willing to see it. Al-Qaida benefits if Iraq descends into chaos; it benefits if the Western world bickers with itself and dickers with terrorists; it benefits if America is isolated. Conversely, al-Qaida suffers if Iraq prospers, if the West stands together, if America leads.
Is this why France and Germany don't support the US?
U.N. Probing Whether Saddam Abused Oil-for-Food
In late January, the Governing Council asked the Oil Ministry to gather information on allegations that Saddam's regime bribed prominent foreigners with oil money to back his government.
Another good Los Angeles Times article...
As Racism Recedes, More Blacks Shift to Political Center
Three in four Americans have seen or expect to see it. As of March 12, only 11% have seen it. If the latest Gallup Poll is any indication, Mel Gibson's movie, The Passion of the Christ, is likely to be among the highest grossing films of all time.
Morton Kondracke: Could 'Passion' film have political fallout?
Protestants are seeing the handwriting on the wall....
Christian Leaders: Calif. Ruling Attacks Religious Freedom
"This case presents a picture of the Catch-22 that some would use to hamstring faith-based organizations," Stevens said in a written release. "On one hand, they fight laws that would allow faith-based organizations to restrict hiring to those who follow its religious teachings. Then on the other hand, as soon as a faith-based organization hires others, they say it's no longer a faith-based organization and loses religious and conscience freedoms. The hypocrisy is stunning -- but not surprising..."
Give them your two cents worth.
Informed Choice Act
Bill # H.R.195
Requires each grant recipient to undertake certain actions, including to: (1) provide to each woman receiving services a visual image of the fetus from the ultrasound examination and a general anatomical and physiological description of the characteristics of the fetus; and (2) provide information on abortion and alternatives to abortion such as childbirth and adoption, and information concerning public and private agencies that will assist in those alternatives.
'Laci and Conner's law' passes major hurdle
Kerry opposes unborn-victims act as threat to abortion rights.
Feminist U.S. Senators Dehumanize Unborn Victims Of Violence
by Rev. Louis P. Sheldon, Chairman, Traditional Values Coalition
Washington, DC - Senator Diane Feinstein (D-CA) and Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) are both determined to make sure that unborn babies who are killed during the commission of a federal crime receive no justice under the law.
Gay Anglican Bishop Says He'd Like to Marry
You have to register (free) to the Los Angeles Times, but this article is worth the effort.
Family Matters
Marriage is based on procreation, a fact no claim of gay 'equality' can avoid
By Douglas R. Kmiec
You can't have social programs without raising taxes. There is no such thing as a free lunch. Where is the money to come from in a state that is going broke?
Mo. Catholic bishops denounce plan to cut medicaid
Linking Al-Qaida and Iraq
The connection between al-Qaida and Iraq is obvious for anybody willing to see it. Al-Qaida benefits if Iraq descends into chaos; it benefits if the Western world bickers with itself and dickers with terrorists; it benefits if America is isolated. Conversely, al-Qaida suffers if Iraq prospers, if the West stands together, if America leads.
Is this why France and Germany don't support the US?
U.N. Probing Whether Saddam Abused Oil-for-Food
In late January, the Governing Council asked the Oil Ministry to gather information on allegations that Saddam's regime bribed prominent foreigners with oil money to back his government.
Another good Los Angeles Times article...
As Racism Recedes, More Blacks Shift to Political Center
Tuesday, March 16, 2004
This is the best article I've seen on the subject.
Save Marriage? It's Too Late.
The Pill made same-sex nuptials inevitable.
Black caucus resists comparison of gay 'marriage' to civil rights
Brian DeBose
The Washington Times
Congressional black Democrats said comparisons shouldn't be made between the struggle by homosexuals to legalize same-sex "marriage" and the civil rights movement of the 1960s.
Flying down the slippery slope
Over the last 40 years, we've made dramatic changes in acceptable behavior and laws. We've seen changes in public demeanor, sexual mores and attitudes toward what once had been considered immoral or taboo – sometimes both.
'Passion' will inspire other religious films
By Michael Medved
Mel Gibson's unprecedented hit, The Passion of the Christ, already has changed Hollywood forever. Those industry insiders who deny the significance of the transformation are fooling only themselves.
Oliver North
One Less Terrorist
Abul Abbas died last week, but he should have been in prison years ago. Where was he all that time? Iraq.
Save Marriage? It's Too Late.
The Pill made same-sex nuptials inevitable.
Black caucus resists comparison of gay 'marriage' to civil rights
Brian DeBose
The Washington Times
Congressional black Democrats said comparisons shouldn't be made between the struggle by homosexuals to legalize same-sex "marriage" and the civil rights movement of the 1960s.
Flying down the slippery slope
Over the last 40 years, we've made dramatic changes in acceptable behavior and laws. We've seen changes in public demeanor, sexual mores and attitudes toward what once had been considered immoral or taboo – sometimes both.
'Passion' will inspire other religious films
By Michael Medved
Mel Gibson's unprecedented hit, The Passion of the Christ, already has changed Hollywood forever. Those industry insiders who deny the significance of the transformation are fooling only themselves.
Oliver North
One Less Terrorist
Abul Abbas died last week, but he should have been in prison years ago. Where was he all that time? Iraq.
Monday, March 15, 2004
Conservative Bishops Defy Episcopal Church
(AP) Clergy perform communion at Presentation of Our Lord Church in Fairlawn, Ohio.
FAIRLAWN, Ohio (AP) - In what the Episcopal Church called a troubling move, six congregations took a stand against the appointment of an openly gay bishop by participating in a confirmation service with conservative bishops who did not have permission from the Diocese of Ohio.
What Would America Be Like If Gay Marriages Were Validated?
With the Democratically controlled legislature in his state already enacting laws that actively seek to enforce hate crimes (as liberals define them), Thomasson is concerned that "churches will be forced to marry homosexual couples." Resistance from pastors could result in lawsuits, criminal charges, and hate crime prosecution. Thomasson can see a future where churches "will lose their religious freedom ... and their tax-free status" if pastors take a stand and refuse to marry homosexual couples.
'Passion' Earns More Than $260 Million
Mel Gibson's dramatization of Christ's final hours climbed to $264 million in the United States and Canada after 19 days in theaters, according to studio estimates Sunday.
Research sought into side-effects of abortion
A medical researcher from the University of Michigan Medical School told the US Senate last week that "abortion increases rates of breast cancer, placenta previa, pre-term births, and maternal suicide."
Islam Filling England's Vacuum
Cal Thomas
In England, where only about two percent of the people bother to attend church, Islam is about to become the dominant faith.
National Right to Life Committee (NRLC) Applauds Agreement For No-Filibuster Vote On Unborn Victims Of Violence Act
Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-Tn.) today succeeded in winning agreement of the full Senate to vote on the Unborn Victims of Violence Act, also known as "Laci and Conner's Law," as early as the week of March 22.
"We commend Senate Majority Leader Frist for his months of tireless work in winning this agreement," said NRLC Legislative Director Douglas Johnson. "This agreement means that if a simple majority of senators votes to reject two killer amendments, the bill can become law in short order, because the agreement prohibits any filibuster of the Unborn Victims of Violence Act."
The agreement limits debate to six and one-half hours. However, Senate Democrats insisted on the right to offer two killer amendments, and supporters of Laci and Conner's Law must defeat those amendments. If the two killer amendments are defeated, then the bill can be sent directly to President Bush for his signature, since the House of Representatives already passed it on February 26, 254-163.
To learn how you can help pass the Unborn Victims of Violence Act, click on this.
Put up or shut up
Mona Charen
"The Justice Department has expanded its demands for private medical records of abortion patients, issuing subpoenas this week for hundreds of files from six Planned Parenthood affiliates ..." Or that's the Washington Post's take, anyway -- there goes that sinister Justice Department under John Ashcroft, attempting to reveal "private medical records."
Actually, the Justice Department is doing nothing of the kind. You'd have to read down further in the story to discover that Justice had "agreed in court documents ... that any individual information, including names and Social Security numbers, would be removed before the records were given to the government." Well, that makes all the difference doesn't it?
Terrorist news of the day.
Huge Car Bomb Found Near U.S. Consulate in Pakistan
France: Bin Laden Nearly Caught in Afghanistan
PARIS (Reuters) - Osama bin Laden has escaped capture in Afghanistan several times and may be linked in some way to the Madrid train attacks that killed 200 people, France's chief of defense staff said Monday.
(AP) Clergy perform communion at Presentation of Our Lord Church in Fairlawn, Ohio.
FAIRLAWN, Ohio (AP) - In what the Episcopal Church called a troubling move, six congregations took a stand against the appointment of an openly gay bishop by participating in a confirmation service with conservative bishops who did not have permission from the Diocese of Ohio.
What Would America Be Like If Gay Marriages Were Validated?
With the Democratically controlled legislature in his state already enacting laws that actively seek to enforce hate crimes (as liberals define them), Thomasson is concerned that "churches will be forced to marry homosexual couples." Resistance from pastors could result in lawsuits, criminal charges, and hate crime prosecution. Thomasson can see a future where churches "will lose their religious freedom ... and their tax-free status" if pastors take a stand and refuse to marry homosexual couples.
'Passion' Earns More Than $260 Million
Mel Gibson's dramatization of Christ's final hours climbed to $264 million in the United States and Canada after 19 days in theaters, according to studio estimates Sunday.
Research sought into side-effects of abortion
A medical researcher from the University of Michigan Medical School told the US Senate last week that "abortion increases rates of breast cancer, placenta previa, pre-term births, and maternal suicide."
Islam Filling England's Vacuum
Cal Thomas
In England, where only about two percent of the people bother to attend church, Islam is about to become the dominant faith.
National Right to Life Committee (NRLC) Applauds Agreement For No-Filibuster Vote On Unborn Victims Of Violence Act
Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-Tn.) today succeeded in winning agreement of the full Senate to vote on the Unborn Victims of Violence Act, also known as "Laci and Conner's Law," as early as the week of March 22.
"We commend Senate Majority Leader Frist for his months of tireless work in winning this agreement," said NRLC Legislative Director Douglas Johnson. "This agreement means that if a simple majority of senators votes to reject two killer amendments, the bill can become law in short order, because the agreement prohibits any filibuster of the Unborn Victims of Violence Act."
The agreement limits debate to six and one-half hours. However, Senate Democrats insisted on the right to offer two killer amendments, and supporters of Laci and Conner's Law must defeat those amendments. If the two killer amendments are defeated, then the bill can be sent directly to President Bush for his signature, since the House of Representatives already passed it on February 26, 254-163.
To learn how you can help pass the Unborn Victims of Violence Act, click on this.
Put up or shut up
Mona Charen
"The Justice Department has expanded its demands for private medical records of abortion patients, issuing subpoenas this week for hundreds of files from six Planned Parenthood affiliates ..." Or that's the Washington Post's take, anyway -- there goes that sinister Justice Department under John Ashcroft, attempting to reveal "private medical records."
Actually, the Justice Department is doing nothing of the kind. You'd have to read down further in the story to discover that Justice had "agreed in court documents ... that any individual information, including names and Social Security numbers, would be removed before the records were given to the government." Well, that makes all the difference doesn't it?
Terrorist news of the day.
Huge Car Bomb Found Near U.S. Consulate in Pakistan
France: Bin Laden Nearly Caught in Afghanistan
PARIS (Reuters) - Osama bin Laden has escaped capture in Afghanistan several times and may be linked in some way to the Madrid train attacks that killed 200 people, France's chief of defense staff said Monday.
Friday, March 12, 2004
The label should say a lot more than this..
Bush administration considering warning labels on condom packages
Bush administration considering warning labels on condom packages
Bush Tells Evangelicals He Will Fight Gay Marriage
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Bush (news - web sites) on Thursday sought to solidify his standing with evangelical Christians by restating support for a constitutional amendment that would ban gay marriage as part of his championship of conservative causes.
Forced abortion a reality in America
Front Royal, Virginia, Mar. 10 (LifesiteNews.com/CWN) - The Population Research Institute has revealed that coerced abortion is a reality in America. A court ruled that a woman can be forced to submit to an abortion, if, in the opinion of the abortionist, the measure is necessary to "protect the health of the mother." The Jane Roe II vs. Aware Women Center for Choice, Inc. ruling was handed down in January.
So a fetus IS human...
Utah Woman Charged With Murdering Fetus
(AP) Melissa Ann Rowland, 28, is shown in this police photo released Thursday, March 11, 2004. Rowland...
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) - As Melissa Ann Rowland's unborn twins got closer to birth, doctors repeatedly told her they would likely die if she did not have a Caesarean section. She refused, and one later was stillborn.
If the liberals have their way, this is what is coming next.
Church angry after religious advertisements rejected
The Catholic Church has faced many obstacles to spreading the word in its 2000-year history, but advertising agencies in 21st century Melbourne (Australia) was not one it anticipated.
Slogans such as "Don't look down, look up" and "Talk to the Boss online every day" are too controversial, even illegal, Father Michael Kelly has been told.
The case could affect abortion rights and open the door to the prosecution of mothers who smoke or don't follow their obstetrician's diet, said Marguerite Driessen, a law professor at Brigham Young University.
In case Americans are thinking Al-Qaeda is no longer dangerous and therefore we don't need Bush to be president....
Purported Qaeda Letter Says U.S. Strike Near Ready
I think Osama BinLaden would endorse Kerry too.
John Kerry: A Despot’s Best Friend
Turn on the Korea Central News Agency in recent days, and you’d be likely to hear John Kerry’s foreign policy speeches receiving lavish praise normally reserved for the man who runs the broadcaster—and pretty much everything else in North Korea: Kim Jong-Il.
Kim Jong-Il hates George W. Bush—his mouthpiece called a senior Bush appointee who is particularly tough on Pyongyang’s dictator “human scum” last year—and luckily for him, Bush’s Democratic opponent wants the same thing Kim does: one-on-one talks, which would help cement the perception North Korea wants to project of equal adversaries squaring off. So the “Dear Leader” supporting Kerry should come as little surprise.
Kerry didn’t ask for the endorsement, so to attack him with it is a cheap shot. The problem, though, is that the man who wants to be the next president would do exactly what Kim and other thugs and tyrants would want.
Stay the course, Mr. President
George W. Bush is constantly targeted for ridicule because he is adamant about the significance of winning the War on Terror. Although foreign and domestic pressure rises because of his insistence, the President must never fall prey to their biased recommendations. Winston Churchill once said, “People who are not prepared to do unpopular things and to defy clamor are not fit to be Ministers in times of stress”.
The president deserves our gratitude for his leadership. Although we may never fully realize or appreciate the avoided outcomes, history will surely thank him if he persistently holds course.
Who are Basque separatists?
Check out this site.
How Susan Lindauer Was Caught
A new indictment outlines the government's allegations.
Susan Lindauer, the former Democratic congressional aide charged with spying for Iraq, was arrested several months after meeting with an FBI agent who posed as a Libyan intelligence agent looking to recruit support for Iraqi groups attacking U.S. forces in the aftermath of the war.
Lindauer is a former journalist for U.S. News & World Report, as well as for Fortune magazine and the Seattle Post-Intelligencer. She also worked as a spokeswoman for then-Representative (and now Senator) Ron Wyden of Oregon, as well as former Sen. Carol Moseley Braun.
Accused Spy Is Cousin of Bush Staffer
WASHINGTON (AP) - The woman charged with working for the Iraqi spy agency is a distant cousin of President Bush's chief of staff, Andrew Card, and has held a variety of jobs in journalism and on Capitol Hill.
Susan Lindauer, 41, worked in the press offices of four Democratic members of Congress. She also worked for Fortune magazine, U.S. News & World Report, the Seattle Post-Intelligencer and Fox News.
Libyan Connection and 'Acid' in Her Car
While working for Rep. Wyden, she became embroiled in the debate over who carried out the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland, in December 1988. Under pressure from the Bush administration, Libya's dictatorship has finally admitted its guilt.
Good riddance....
Stern Threatens To Quit If Bush Signs Indecency Bill
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Bush (news - web sites) on Thursday sought to solidify his standing with evangelical Christians by restating support for a constitutional amendment that would ban gay marriage as part of his championship of conservative causes.
Forced abortion a reality in America
Front Royal, Virginia, Mar. 10 (LifesiteNews.com/CWN) - The Population Research Institute has revealed that coerced abortion is a reality in America. A court ruled that a woman can be forced to submit to an abortion, if, in the opinion of the abortionist, the measure is necessary to "protect the health of the mother." The Jane Roe II vs. Aware Women Center for Choice, Inc. ruling was handed down in January.
So a fetus IS human...
Utah Woman Charged With Murdering Fetus
(AP) Melissa Ann Rowland, 28, is shown in this police photo released Thursday, March 11, 2004. Rowland...
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) - As Melissa Ann Rowland's unborn twins got closer to birth, doctors repeatedly told her they would likely die if she did not have a Caesarean section. She refused, and one later was stillborn.
If the liberals have their way, this is what is coming next.
Church angry after religious advertisements rejected
The Catholic Church has faced many obstacles to spreading the word in its 2000-year history, but advertising agencies in 21st century Melbourne (Australia) was not one it anticipated.
Slogans such as "Don't look down, look up" and "Talk to the Boss online every day" are too controversial, even illegal, Father Michael Kelly has been told.
The case could affect abortion rights and open the door to the prosecution of mothers who smoke or don't follow their obstetrician's diet, said Marguerite Driessen, a law professor at Brigham Young University.
In case Americans are thinking Al-Qaeda is no longer dangerous and therefore we don't need Bush to be president....
Purported Qaeda Letter Says U.S. Strike Near Ready
I think Osama BinLaden would endorse Kerry too.
John Kerry: A Despot’s Best Friend
Turn on the Korea Central News Agency in recent days, and you’d be likely to hear John Kerry’s foreign policy speeches receiving lavish praise normally reserved for the man who runs the broadcaster—and pretty much everything else in North Korea: Kim Jong-Il.
Kim Jong-Il hates George W. Bush—his mouthpiece called a senior Bush appointee who is particularly tough on Pyongyang’s dictator “human scum” last year—and luckily for him, Bush’s Democratic opponent wants the same thing Kim does: one-on-one talks, which would help cement the perception North Korea wants to project of equal adversaries squaring off. So the “Dear Leader” supporting Kerry should come as little surprise.
Kerry didn’t ask for the endorsement, so to attack him with it is a cheap shot. The problem, though, is that the man who wants to be the next president would do exactly what Kim and other thugs and tyrants would want.
Stay the course, Mr. President
George W. Bush is constantly targeted for ridicule because he is adamant about the significance of winning the War on Terror. Although foreign and domestic pressure rises because of his insistence, the President must never fall prey to their biased recommendations. Winston Churchill once said, “People who are not prepared to do unpopular things and to defy clamor are not fit to be Ministers in times of stress”.
The president deserves our gratitude for his leadership. Although we may never fully realize or appreciate the avoided outcomes, history will surely thank him if he persistently holds course.
Who are Basque separatists?
Check out this site.
How Susan Lindauer Was Caught
A new indictment outlines the government's allegations.
Susan Lindauer, the former Democratic congressional aide charged with spying for Iraq, was arrested several months after meeting with an FBI agent who posed as a Libyan intelligence agent looking to recruit support for Iraqi groups attacking U.S. forces in the aftermath of the war.
Lindauer is a former journalist for U.S. News & World Report, as well as for Fortune magazine and the Seattle Post-Intelligencer. She also worked as a spokeswoman for then-Representative (and now Senator) Ron Wyden of Oregon, as well as former Sen. Carol Moseley Braun.
Accused Spy Is Cousin of Bush Staffer
WASHINGTON (AP) - The woman charged with working for the Iraqi spy agency is a distant cousin of President Bush's chief of staff, Andrew Card, and has held a variety of jobs in journalism and on Capitol Hill.
Susan Lindauer, 41, worked in the press offices of four Democratic members of Congress. She also worked for Fortune magazine, U.S. News & World Report, the Seattle Post-Intelligencer and Fox News.
Libyan Connection and 'Acid' in Her Car
While working for Rep. Wyden, she became embroiled in the debate over who carried out the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland, in December 1988. Under pressure from the Bush administration, Libya's dictatorship has finally admitted its guilt.
Good riddance....
Stern Threatens To Quit If Bush Signs Indecency Bill
Thursday, March 11, 2004
Here are today's most interesting web sites:
Bush Tells Evangelicals He Will Fight Gay Marriage
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Bush (news - web sites) on Thursday sought to solidify his standing with evangelical Christians by restating support for a constitutional amendment that would ban gay marriage as part of his championship of conservative causes.
Forced abortion a reality in America
Front Royal, Virginia, Mar. 10 (LifesiteNews.com/CWN) - The Population Research Institute has revealed that coerced abortion is a reality in America. A court ruled that a woman can be forced to submit to an abortion, if, in the opinion of the abortionist, the measure is necessary to "protect the health of the mother." The Jane Roe II vs. Aware Women Center for Choice, Inc. ruling was handed down in January.
Bush Tells Evangelicals He Will Fight Gay Marriage
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Bush (news - web sites) on Thursday sought to solidify his standing with evangelical Christians by restating support for a constitutional amendment that would ban gay marriage as part of his championship of conservative causes.
Forced abortion a reality in America
Front Royal, Virginia, Mar. 10 (LifesiteNews.com/CWN) - The Population Research Institute has revealed that coerced abortion is a reality in America. A court ruled that a woman can be forced to submit to an abortion, if, in the opinion of the abortionist, the measure is necessary to "protect the health of the mother." The Jane Roe II vs. Aware Women Center for Choice, Inc. ruling was handed down in January.
Wednesday, March 10, 2004
It's one thing to use civil disobedience when the offense is minor, but another thing to disobey laws that protect the sacred institution of marriage.
Not wedded to the law
Many public officials around the country seem to have contracted the San Francisco Disease, or SFD. This is the highly contagious ailment that convinces the stricken that it's all right to ignore laws they disagree with.
Take that, Hollywood!
After 'Passion,' no need for Gibson to work again
Before Newmarket Films' mega-blockbuster launch of Mel Gibson's "The Passion of the Christ," insiders were speculating that the controversial film might hurt Gibson's acting career.
Although some wondered if he'd ever work again, as it turns out the real question is whether Gibson will ever need to work again given "Passion's" divine profits.
South Dakota governor will sign abortion ban
In the message board below the article is this amusing comment. "Why pass laws? It's a needless waste of time. Just have the mayors of the cities shut down the abortion clinics under there own interpretation of the Constitution. Seems to be working in another case.... "
U.S. Finds Radioactive Missiles in Iraq
Charles R. Smith
Tuesday, March 9, 2004
U.S. Army troops operating at a former Iraqi air base recently made a startling discovery: Russian-made missiles marked with radioactive warning signs. Army bomb disposal troops confirmed using Geiger counters that the missiles are indeed radioactive. The discovery is not, however, considered the long-sought "smoking gun" of Iraqi weapons of mass destruction.
Not wedded to the law
Many public officials around the country seem to have contracted the San Francisco Disease, or SFD. This is the highly contagious ailment that convinces the stricken that it's all right to ignore laws they disagree with.
Take that, Hollywood!
After 'Passion,' no need for Gibson to work again
Before Newmarket Films' mega-blockbuster launch of Mel Gibson's "The Passion of the Christ," insiders were speculating that the controversial film might hurt Gibson's acting career.
Although some wondered if he'd ever work again, as it turns out the real question is whether Gibson will ever need to work again given "Passion's" divine profits.
South Dakota governor will sign abortion ban
In the message board below the article is this amusing comment. "Why pass laws? It's a needless waste of time. Just have the mayors of the cities shut down the abortion clinics under there own interpretation of the Constitution. Seems to be working in another case.... "
U.S. Finds Radioactive Missiles in Iraq
Charles R. Smith
Tuesday, March 9, 2004
U.S. Army troops operating at a former Iraqi air base recently made a startling discovery: Russian-made missiles marked with radioactive warning signs. Army bomb disposal troops confirmed using Geiger counters that the missiles are indeed radioactive. The discovery is not, however, considered the long-sought "smoking gun" of Iraqi weapons of mass destruction.
Tuesday, March 09, 2004
I saw the movie THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST again Friday because I missed a lot by reading subtitles. I saw more details this time.
Those who say the movie is too bloody can't know that for sure anymore than those who say it is realistic. There are no photos to prove either view. But those who know how the Romans did things know it was probably as brutal as the movie portrays with the exception that Jesus was probably naked too. Crucifixion was a horrible way to die. I saw a replica of the Shroud of Turin that indicates the scourging was horrible.
The first time I saw it, I felt sadness for a week as I said to myself, "He did this for me." The second time I saw it, I felt joy and gratitude as I said to myself, "He did this for me!" Alleuia!!!! Praise God!! I'm redeemed by the blood of the Lamb! Rejoice! Thank you, Jesus!
Those who say the movie is too bloody can't know that for sure anymore than those who say it is realistic. There are no photos to prove either view. But those who know how the Romans did things know it was probably as brutal as the movie portrays with the exception that Jesus was probably naked too. Crucifixion was a horrible way to die. I saw a replica of the Shroud of Turin that indicates the scourging was horrible.
The first time I saw it, I felt sadness for a week as I said to myself, "He did this for me." The second time I saw it, I felt joy and gratitude as I said to myself, "He did this for me!" Alleuia!!!! Praise God!! I'm redeemed by the blood of the Lamb! Rejoice! Thank you, Jesus!
There is more than one battleground in the culture war.
Boy Scouts fight back
The northwest corner of Balboa Park in downtown San Diego is an oasis of pine trees, a pool, a tiny amphitheater, an archery range, a rifle range, an activity center for knot-tying plus several campsites.
Ordinarily, the 15.6 acres that has been leased to the Boy Scouts of America since 1957 is a restful spot and an easy commute for residents who want a quick escape to parkland within city limits. The Boy Scouts have invested at least $5 million in the park, which is open to the public.
All this is now up for grabs because of a lawsuit seeking to remove the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) from their land. It is one of many battles nationwide affecting an organization serving 1 million boys ages 11 to 17 that in 2000 won a Supreme Court decision in Boy Scouts of America vs. Dale, allowing the BSA to ban homosexuals from scoutmaster positions.
In the past four years, numerous lawsuits have been filed against the Boy Scouts, at least 60 United Way chapters have withdrawn funding, and government officials from San Diego to Hartford, Conn., are saying the Scouts' exclusion of homosexuals should not go unchallenged.
The newest case, Boy Scouts vs. Wyden, is before the Supreme Court, which is expected to announce tomorrow whether it will take the case.
Since 1975, the Boy Scouts have won more than 30 lawsuits challenging the Scouts' membership standards requiring Scouts to believe in God, be male and not openly homosexual. In the Dale case, the Supreme Court ruled the Boy Scouts are a private organization with a constitutionally protected right of freedom of association to set membership standards.
Scores of organizations sympathetic to homosexual rights began punishing the Scouts by withdrawing facilities, discounts and funds.
Same-sex marriage vs. civil rights
Jeff Jacoby article
Homosexual marriage is not a civil rights issue. But that hasn't stopped the advocates of same-sex marriage from draping themselves in the glory of the civil rights movement -- and smearing the defenders of traditional marriage as the moral equal of segregationists.
Could this law help?
1913 law could foil plans for gay marriages in Mass.
BOSTON — An obscure 1913 law may trip up a wedding march of gay couples from around the country who hoped to come to Massachusetts and get hitched in May.
Ten weeks before gay marriage becomes legal in Massachusetts, municipal clerks are waiting for a ruling on a 90-year-old statute that bars them from issuing marriage licenses "if such marriage would be void" in the couples' home state. Since no state besides Massachusetts permits gay marriage, the law appears to object to clerks marrying gays from outside the Bay State.
http://www.newsmax.com/archives/ic/2004/3/8/143615.shtml
Sorry, 'Idiots': Washington Post Says Mel Gibson Is Going to Hell
Amazing!
THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST
Total as of Mar. 8, 2004: $213,888,740 (Estimate)
The Rebirth of Christianity: Besieged in the West, the Gospel Makes Amazing Progress Elsewhere
Holiday for Abortionists—Seriously
This Wednesday, March 10th, is a holiday with which you may not be familiar, but should be: the National Day of Appreciation for Abortion Providers.
Please pray for Attorney General John Ashcroft.
Ashcroft to have gall bladder removed
WASHINGTON (AP) — Attorney General John Ashcroft is to undergo surgery Tuesday to remove his gall bladder to prevent a recurrence of gallstone pancreatitis, doctors said.
Boy Scouts fight back
The northwest corner of Balboa Park in downtown San Diego is an oasis of pine trees, a pool, a tiny amphitheater, an archery range, a rifle range, an activity center for knot-tying plus several campsites.
Ordinarily, the 15.6 acres that has been leased to the Boy Scouts of America since 1957 is a restful spot and an easy commute for residents who want a quick escape to parkland within city limits. The Boy Scouts have invested at least $5 million in the park, which is open to the public.
All this is now up for grabs because of a lawsuit seeking to remove the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) from their land. It is one of many battles nationwide affecting an organization serving 1 million boys ages 11 to 17 that in 2000 won a Supreme Court decision in Boy Scouts of America vs. Dale, allowing the BSA to ban homosexuals from scoutmaster positions.
In the past four years, numerous lawsuits have been filed against the Boy Scouts, at least 60 United Way chapters have withdrawn funding, and government officials from San Diego to Hartford, Conn., are saying the Scouts' exclusion of homosexuals should not go unchallenged.
The newest case, Boy Scouts vs. Wyden, is before the Supreme Court, which is expected to announce tomorrow whether it will take the case.
Since 1975, the Boy Scouts have won more than 30 lawsuits challenging the Scouts' membership standards requiring Scouts to believe in God, be male and not openly homosexual. In the Dale case, the Supreme Court ruled the Boy Scouts are a private organization with a constitutionally protected right of freedom of association to set membership standards.
Scores of organizations sympathetic to homosexual rights began punishing the Scouts by withdrawing facilities, discounts and funds.
Same-sex marriage vs. civil rights
Jeff Jacoby article
Homosexual marriage is not a civil rights issue. But that hasn't stopped the advocates of same-sex marriage from draping themselves in the glory of the civil rights movement -- and smearing the defenders of traditional marriage as the moral equal of segregationists.
Could this law help?
1913 law could foil plans for gay marriages in Mass.
BOSTON — An obscure 1913 law may trip up a wedding march of gay couples from around the country who hoped to come to Massachusetts and get hitched in May.
Ten weeks before gay marriage becomes legal in Massachusetts, municipal clerks are waiting for a ruling on a 90-year-old statute that bars them from issuing marriage licenses "if such marriage would be void" in the couples' home state. Since no state besides Massachusetts permits gay marriage, the law appears to object to clerks marrying gays from outside the Bay State.
http://www.newsmax.com/archives/ic/2004/3/8/143615.shtml
Sorry, 'Idiots': Washington Post Says Mel Gibson Is Going to Hell
Amazing!
THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST
Total as of Mar. 8, 2004: $213,888,740 (Estimate)
The Rebirth of Christianity: Besieged in the West, the Gospel Makes Amazing Progress Elsewhere
Holiday for Abortionists—Seriously
This Wednesday, March 10th, is a holiday with which you may not be familiar, but should be: the National Day of Appreciation for Abortion Providers.
Please pray for Attorney General John Ashcroft.
Ashcroft to have gall bladder removed
WASHINGTON (AP) — Attorney General John Ashcroft is to undergo surgery Tuesday to remove his gall bladder to prevent a recurrence of gallstone pancreatitis, doctors said.
Thursday, March 04, 2004
In case you think the judicial system doesn't need some reform, look at this.
Federal Judge Upholds Display of 'Anti-Catholic' Statue
(CNSNews.com) - A federal judge in Kansas has ruled that Washburn University did not violate the constitution by prominently displaying a sculpture that mocks the Catholic faith.
"The Ten Commandments and the Christian Nativity scene are out, but an anti-Catholic display of a bishop wearing a miter that resembles a phallus is permissible because it allegedly enhances aesthetics," Thompson said.
If you are curious about the writings on which The Passion of the Christ is based, here is the web site.
The Dolorous Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ
The visions of Anne Catherine Emmerich concerning the totality of horrific sufferings our Dear Lord Jesus Christ suffered in his work to save mankind.
This is the best commentary I've seen so far on the media's reaction to The Passion of the Christ. You have to subscribe to see this, but it is worth it and it is free.
The misreading of Mel Gibson
By MARK STEYN
Benyamin Cohen, editor of the online publication Jewsweek, went to see Mel Gibson's The Passion Of The Christ and came out homicidal: "My first comprehensible thought was this: I really want to kill a Jew."
Maureen Dowd of The New York Times agreed: "In Braveheart and The Patriot, his other emotionally manipulative historical epics, you came out wanting to swing an ax into the skull of the nearest Englishman. Here, you want to kick in some Jewish and Roman teeth. And since the Romans have melted into history...."
Really? You want to kick in some Jew teeth? I mean, really want to? If you say so. It may be that elderly schoolgirl columnists at The New York Times are unusually easy to rouse to violence.
But I reckon Dowd and Cohen are faking it. They don't mean that, thanks to Mel, Times marquee columnists and liberal Jewish New Yorkers will be rampaging around looking for Jews to kill, they mean all those rubes and hicks in Dogpatch who don't know any better will be doing so.
As Andy Rooney, the ersatz controversialist on CBS's Sixty Minutes, enquired: "How many million dollars does it look as if you're going to make off the crucifixion of Christ?" Hey, if he's lucky, maybe as many millions as Michael Moore made off all those dead high-school kids with Bowling For Columbine.
Throughout the whiplash U-turn, only one feature of the "controversy" remained constant: that the movie is "anti-Semitic."
It's true that in Europe "passion plays" often provided a rationale for Jew-hatred. But that was at a time when the church was also a projection of state power. What's happening in America is quite the opposite: One reason why Hollywood assumed Mel had laid a $30 million Easter egg was because the elite coastal enclaves who set the cultural agenda haven't a clue about the rest of the country when it comes to religion.
They don't mind Jesus when he's hippy (Godspell) or horny (Terrence McNally's "gay Jesus" play Corpus Christi) but taking the guy seriously is just for fruitcakes.
Federal Judge Upholds Display of 'Anti-Catholic' Statue
(CNSNews.com) - A federal judge in Kansas has ruled that Washburn University did not violate the constitution by prominently displaying a sculpture that mocks the Catholic faith.
"The Ten Commandments and the Christian Nativity scene are out, but an anti-Catholic display of a bishop wearing a miter that resembles a phallus is permissible because it allegedly enhances aesthetics," Thompson said.
If you are curious about the writings on which The Passion of the Christ is based, here is the web site.
The Dolorous Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ
The visions of Anne Catherine Emmerich concerning the totality of horrific sufferings our Dear Lord Jesus Christ suffered in his work to save mankind.
This is the best commentary I've seen so far on the media's reaction to The Passion of the Christ. You have to subscribe to see this, but it is worth it and it is free.
The misreading of Mel Gibson
By MARK STEYN
Benyamin Cohen, editor of the online publication Jewsweek, went to see Mel Gibson's The Passion Of The Christ and came out homicidal: "My first comprehensible thought was this: I really want to kill a Jew."
Maureen Dowd of The New York Times agreed: "In Braveheart and The Patriot, his other emotionally manipulative historical epics, you came out wanting to swing an ax into the skull of the nearest Englishman. Here, you want to kick in some Jewish and Roman teeth. And since the Romans have melted into history...."
Really? You want to kick in some Jew teeth? I mean, really want to? If you say so. It may be that elderly schoolgirl columnists at The New York Times are unusually easy to rouse to violence.
But I reckon Dowd and Cohen are faking it. They don't mean that, thanks to Mel, Times marquee columnists and liberal Jewish New Yorkers will be rampaging around looking for Jews to kill, they mean all those rubes and hicks in Dogpatch who don't know any better will be doing so.
As Andy Rooney, the ersatz controversialist on CBS's Sixty Minutes, enquired: "How many million dollars does it look as if you're going to make off the crucifixion of Christ?" Hey, if he's lucky, maybe as many millions as Michael Moore made off all those dead high-school kids with Bowling For Columbine.
Throughout the whiplash U-turn, only one feature of the "controversy" remained constant: that the movie is "anti-Semitic."
It's true that in Europe "passion plays" often provided a rationale for Jew-hatred. But that was at a time when the church was also a projection of state power. What's happening in America is quite the opposite: One reason why Hollywood assumed Mel had laid a $30 million Easter egg was because the elite coastal enclaves who set the cultural agenda haven't a clue about the rest of the country when it comes to religion.
They don't mind Jesus when he's hippy (Godspell) or horny (Terrence McNally's "gay Jesus" play Corpus Christi) but taking the guy seriously is just for fruitcakes.
Wednesday, March 03, 2004
California's act of tyranny
What if a state legislature enacted, and a state Supreme Court upheld, a law forcing family businesses operated by Orthodox Jews to remain open on the Sabbath?
Gay Marriage a Voting Issue, But Mostly for Opponents
Constitutional Amendment Rates as Low Priority
Gay marriage has surpassed other major social issues like abortion and gun control in its influence on voters. Four-in-ten voters say they would not vote for a candidate who disagrees with them on gay marriage, even if they agree with the candidate on most other issues. By comparison, 34% say they would not support a candidate who disagrees with them on abortion and 32% expressed that opinion about a candidate's stance on gun control.
What if a state legislature enacted, and a state Supreme Court upheld, a law forcing family businesses operated by Orthodox Jews to remain open on the Sabbath?
Gay Marriage a Voting Issue, But Mostly for Opponents
Constitutional Amendment Rates as Low Priority
Gay marriage has surpassed other major social issues like abortion and gun control in its influence on voters. Four-in-ten voters say they would not vote for a candidate who disagrees with them on gay marriage, even if they agree with the candidate on most other issues. By comparison, 34% say they would not support a candidate who disagrees with them on abortion and 32% expressed that opinion about a candidate's stance on gun control.
Tuesday, March 02, 2004
I saw the Passion of The Christ on Saturday. I'm still pondering its meaning. It was such a powerful, awesome, heavy, meaningful movie! I'll have to see it more than once to get all the symbolic meaning from it. I loved to way Gibson used flashbacks to add layers of meaning to the Way of the Cross. I left it continually thinking, "He did it for me!" I think folks who have faith will get more out of this movie than non-believers, but all should see this except young children. Hopefully, it will break through some folk's denial of who Jesus is.
A Review of The PotC
First off, “The Passion” is not anti-Semitic, its pro-history.
And these morons who laugh and eat popcorn while watching meaningless death are now offended at Gibson’s meaningful, historically accurate portrayal of Jesus’ scourging and crucifixion?
Missouri's Senate sends the House a gay-marriage ban constitutional amendment (03/01/04)
JEFFERSON CITY - By a vote of 26 to 6, the Missouri Senate voted to amend the state constitution defining marriages as a union only between a man and a woman. Senator Ken Jacobs says the amendment will not be enough to prevent couples from other states from being recognized if they move to Missouri. But Senator John Loudon says that despite its impact, the state had to take a stand on the issue.
A Review of The PotC
First off, “The Passion” is not anti-Semitic, its pro-history.
And these morons who laugh and eat popcorn while watching meaningless death are now offended at Gibson’s meaningful, historically accurate portrayal of Jesus’ scourging and crucifixion?
Missouri's Senate sends the House a gay-marriage ban constitutional amendment (03/01/04)
JEFFERSON CITY - By a vote of 26 to 6, the Missouri Senate voted to amend the state constitution defining marriages as a union only between a man and a woman. Senator Ken Jacobs says the amendment will not be enough to prevent couples from other states from being recognized if they move to Missouri. But Senator John Loudon says that despite its impact, the state had to take a stand on the issue.
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