For One Night, Baghdad Gets a Pink ZoneIs America like a great prostitute leading the whole world astray? What do you think?
Source: www.washingtonpost.com, Al Kamen, Friday, May 22, 2009
Change has certainly come to Baghdad. And it appears that includes the U.S. Embassy, where they are holding what the invitation says is the first-ever U.S. Embassy Gay Pride Theme Party next Friday at Baghdaddy's, which is the embassy employee association's pub.
Friday, May 29, 2009
The Great Satan at Work in the East
This article highlights the type of behavior that gets the U.S. the "Great Satan" label. Muslims view the U.S. as a Christian nation. Christianity is viewed as a religion of decadence, because too many wear crosses and run with the devil. That makes us the Great Satan in their eyes, and this type of behavior only fuels the fire.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Zoners Gone Wild
The City of Hutto, Texas has been battling over zoning in recent years. Some claim Harris County (Houston) is the model, while others embrace the progressive zoning model. The battle here in the fastest growing city in Texas is nothing compared to Zoners Gone Wild in San Diego County, California.
A San Diego pastor and his wife have been told that cannot hold a Bible Study in their home. Well, guess what, it's actually in the residential code and very easy to find. Take a look at the following links to see ZONERS GONE WILD!!
This is what happens when Christians ignore their local political process!
God Save the U.S.A.
A San Diego pastor and his wife have been told that cannot hold a Bible Study in their home. Well, guess what, it's actually in the residential code and very easy to find. Take a look at the following links to see ZONERS GONE WILD!!
This is what happens when Christians ignore their local political process!
God Save the U.S.A.
Democratic Senators Block McLeroy as SBOE Chair
AUSTIN, Texas – Following much speculation about the confirmation of Don McLeroy to the State Board of Education (SBOE) Chair, the Texas Senate voted today by a vote of 19-11 to deny him a second term as Chairman. McLeroy needed 21 votes, 2/3 of the 31 Senate members, to be confirmed. Gov. Perry reappointed McLeroy in February, and was passed by the Senate Nominations Committee on May 20. Critics of McLeroy have for months focused on his religious beliefs, even highlighting statements he made at his church. Some Senators pointed to national stories that were critical of him as reason for opposition. The vote fell along party lines.
After the vote, Free Market Foundation (FMF) Director of Legislative Affairs and Attorney Jonathan Saenz released the following statement:
After the vote, Free Market Foundation (FMF) Director of Legislative Affairs and Attorney Jonathan Saenz released the following statement:
“Some Senators have made it clear that the N.Y. Times, religious beliefs, and party affiliation are in control of deciding who serves as SBOE chairman. The message has been sent -- if you have sincere religious beliefs, you need not apply to be chair of the State Board of Education."FMF President Kelly Shackelford said this:
“I find the comments about McLeroy’s religion and the Senate vote to be very disturbing. This is an embarrassment and a black mark on the Senate. We expect the Governor to nominate an SBOE Chair who is just as conservative as McLeroy, and therefore, representative of the people of Texas.”
Freedom Season
Conceived in Liberty; Fathered by Independence; Birthed in the Year of Our Lord 1620; Came of Age in the Winter of 1775 at Valley Forge ... that’s Our Country. Now the Bill of Rights has become conditional. Now our Freedoms are under attack. “Free Speech”, if it does not offend. Only the "registered" may bear arms, and then only arms of certain types.
Join us this weekend in Liberty Hill, Texas for the inauguration of Freedom Season. Liberty Hill is hosting events Saturday from noon 'till 10:30 pm. Come see the parade, eat, shop and visit the America Bless God booth. We'll be talking with George Washington and Patrick Henry this Saturday, plus Sunday on the radio show.
Also, be sure to read THE STACK. Zoners Gone Wild in San Diego County, California! See the blog post.
God Save the U.S.A!
We appreciate your thoughts, phone calls and emails. Listen to Political Hope, pick up the phone and join the discussion every Sunday at 4pm. The call in numbers are ...
We appreciate your thoughts, phone calls and emails. Listen to Political Hope, pick up the phone and join the discussion every Sunday at 4pm. The call in numbers are ...
(512) 637-9673 (WORD)
- or -
(888) 860-9673
Call the Political Hope Radio Show to voice your opinion every Sunday at 4 pm CDT. You can hear us on The Word 98.5 & 99.3 KLGO FM Radio in Austin, or listen to live streaming on-line ... http://www.theword993.com/
Two Party Ghost Chase
The film crews have left Hollywood, and Bob Hudgins would love to lure the ghosts of Hollywood to Texas. In 2007, the 80th Texas Legislature passed a bill providing incentives for film production in Texas.[i] As Director of the Texas Film Commission, Hudgins has received film production grant applications exceeding $11 million[ii]. Yet, only nine big-screen films, out of two-hundred total applicants, have sniffed out the Governor’s new hay stack.
Hudgins indicates the number of film crews in Texas has decreased in recent years. The Land of Enchantment and the swamps of Louisiana are attracting the ghosts of Hollywood, so Rep. Dukes and Senator Deuell’s doled out the proposed solution in identical bills HB-873 & SB-605. The 81st Legislature piled on bi-partisan support for immediate changes in the Texas Moving Image Incentive Program, granting easier access to your money, which Governor Rick Perry signed within three days[iii]. Film Fleet trucks began rolling shortly thereafter.
Hudgins indicates the number of film crews in Texas has decreased in recent years. The Land of Enchantment and the swamps of Louisiana are attracting the ghosts of Hollywood, so Rep. Dukes and Senator Deuell’s doled out the proposed solution in identical bills HB-873 & SB-605. The 81st Legislature piled on bi-partisan support for immediate changes in the Texas Moving Image Incentive Program, granting easier access to your money, which Governor Rick Perry signed within three days[iii]. Film Fleet trucks began rolling shortly thereafter.
Did the new incentives conjure up ghost drivers for
special film industry trucks headed to small Texas towns?
special film industry trucks headed to small Texas towns?
Adena Lewis of the Smithville Chamber of Commerce vouches for the economic impact of movie production, and asserts from first hand knowledge that local film jobs hinge on improved incentives. Fiscal conservatives claim this bill is a compromise on principles. Likening the measure to chasing ghosts puts it kindly. “Bi-Partisan pork” and “Socialism” are found among the criticisms. Conservative moms speak even greater disdain for the notion of luring Hollywood to Texas.
The revised bill is comparatively simple. Most other states, including the current two film production leaders, have state income taxes. The uniqueness of the Texas’ tax system limits the options for luring film production to the Lone Star State. Hudgins believes “cash back” is best approach to compete with big tax breaks offered other states.
The Fiscal Note on HB-873 predicted “No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated”. The new qualifications for cash back require $250,000 in Texas spending on big films, compared to $1,000,000 in the 2007 bill. The new version requires 60% of the filming to be done on Lone Star soil, while the 2007 version required 80%.
Hudgins’ office pursues more than big film jobs. Incentives for gaming, TV commercials, and TV series have been utilized frequently. All of the $550,000 incentive delivered as of March ’09 went to aid creation of seventy full-time equivalent jobs in these “other” categories.[iv] Additional big screen film projects were said to hang in the balance during House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee testimony.
Smithville landed its biggest project, “Hope Floats” with Sandra Bullock, before the incentives were enacted by the 80th Legislature. The incentive program did help draw a smaller production, “Tree of Life”, to Smithville, and another is under consideration. Lewis is excited about job strengthening and community morale benefits that come with these projects, and believes the new incentives will help.
Smithville has a population of less than five thousand. The film crews integrated well into the community, and were missed upon departure. Local police and service industry workers benefited from the extra activity in town. The “Tree of Life”, released in January 2009, brought film production staff to town for nearly two years, along with over $750,000 in spending. Since “Hope Floats” was released in 1998, Smithville has benefited from film related tourism.
The 2009 legislation is aimed at drawing more big film production to Texas with a special emphasis on under-utilized and economically distressed areas. The big cities in Texas have numerous film related jobs. Dallas and Austin get a majority of the big picture deals. The Governor’s office wants to see some of these projects out in the smaller pastures of Texas.
While Hudgins is after film production jobs, local film industry folks say the real jobs and money are on the film distribution side. This side of the business remains predominately in Hollywood, California.
Those that travel the back roads of eastern Travis County may notice unusual trucks parked off Cameron Road near the new Texas-130 Toll Road. These film trucks, owned by Film Fleet LLC, were parked for several months. The underutilized trucks sat begging for a Hollywood ghost driver, then came April 23, 2009. On that day HB-873 became the second new law of the 81st Legislature to find its way under Governor Perry’s pen.
The 2007 incentive criteria were structured around the type of project: Games, TV Commercials, TV Series, and production films. The new incentive package gives grant ruling making to the Office of the Governor, save any salaries exceeding $1,000,000.
The incentives are in addition to existing sales tax exemptions for certain film related expenses. Upon passage of HB-873 the Film Commission published their new incentive program, which gives production companies a new matrix of options, still based on project type, with the highest cash back going to film and television projects over $5,000,000 in underutilized areas (See Figure 1[v]).
Before the 2007 incentives came into play, the Film Commission had established gasoline tax rebates for off-road usage. The Film Commission also provides free services for casting and crew calls, a directory of film crews, production companies and support organizations, film events, industry news and workforce training workshops provided at taxpayer expense.
Michael Quinn Sullivan of Empower Texans sarcastically cries, “Hurray for Hollywood!”, blasting the bill as bi-partisan pork while businesses suffer heavy tax burdens and a difficult economic climate. Pat Dixon, Chairman of the Texas Libertarian Party, calls it socialism; the re-distribution of wealth from one industry to another. The incentive program offends those who believe it is not state government’s role to give benefit to one industry over another.
Dixon calls for abolishment of the Film Commission and alarm among free market supporters[vi]. Local incentive deals are viewed as adequate and appropriate. Apparently most Republicans and Democrats do not share the ideology of Sullivan and Dixon. Sullivan was the Lone Ranger testifying against a horde of Hollywood ghost chasers, during the public hearing for HB-873.[vii]
The incentive program excludes pornographic films as defined by Texas Law. That does not go far enough for conservative moms. “Why do we want to draw Hollywood to Texas?” a home school mom asked. A State Representative voting against the bill echoed the same sentiment. The glamorization of sexual promiscuity, the constant barrage of soft porn and bad values drives conservative moms to reject the ideal of luring Hollywood to Texas. Some believe it would be perfectly fine for Hollywood smut to not be produced in Texas. Louisiana and New Mexico can underwrite all they want. Reality and talk shows are also excluded from incentives.
Hudgins says the industry is not as glamorous as the critics claim. It’s about job creation, and the majority of film work does not make it to the big screen. Projects drawn by the incentive program don’t even make the Film Commission’s web-site. Glamorous film scenes displayed at www.governor.state.tx.us/film did not get shot in Texas due to the Governor’s “cash back” offer.
The new bill reduces incentive qualifications and increases payouts. While it clearly offends conservative values in a conservative state, it sailed through the 81st Texas Legislature ahead of the masses. Offered up by Democrat Donna Dukes and supported by our Republican Governor, plus numerous Republican Senators and Representatives, the justification is job creation, temporary or not; Hollywood or not.
Oh, and those parked trucks were moved around due to the recent rains. Film industry folks are still optimistically looking for that next big Lone Star movie deal.
While Hudgins is after film production jobs, local film industry folks say the real jobs and money are on the film distribution side. This side of the business remains predominately in Hollywood, California.
Those that travel the back roads of eastern Travis County may notice unusual trucks parked off Cameron Road near the new Texas-130 Toll Road. These film trucks, owned by Film Fleet LLC, were parked for several months. The underutilized trucks sat begging for a Hollywood ghost driver, then came April 23, 2009. On that day HB-873 became the second new law of the 81st Legislature to find its way under Governor Perry’s pen.
The 2007 incentive criteria were structured around the type of project: Games, TV Commercials, TV Series, and production films. The new incentive package gives grant ruling making to the Office of the Governor, save any salaries exceeding $1,000,000.
The incentives are in addition to existing sales tax exemptions for certain film related expenses. Upon passage of HB-873 the Film Commission published their new incentive program, which gives production companies a new matrix of options, still based on project type, with the highest cash back going to film and television projects over $5,000,000 in underutilized areas (See Figure 1[v]).
Before the 2007 incentives came into play, the Film Commission had established gasoline tax rebates for off-road usage. The Film Commission also provides free services for casting and crew calls, a directory of film crews, production companies and support organizations, film events, industry news and workforce training workshops provided at taxpayer expense.
Michael Quinn Sullivan of Empower Texans sarcastically cries, “Hurray for Hollywood!”, blasting the bill as bi-partisan pork while businesses suffer heavy tax burdens and a difficult economic climate. Pat Dixon, Chairman of the Texas Libertarian Party, calls it socialism; the re-distribution of wealth from one industry to another. The incentive program offends those who believe it is not state government’s role to give benefit to one industry over another.
Dixon calls for abolishment of the Film Commission and alarm among free market supporters[vi]. Local incentive deals are viewed as adequate and appropriate. Apparently most Republicans and Democrats do not share the ideology of Sullivan and Dixon. Sullivan was the Lone Ranger testifying against a horde of Hollywood ghost chasers, during the public hearing for HB-873.[vii]
The incentive program excludes pornographic films as defined by Texas Law. That does not go far enough for conservative moms. “Why do we want to draw Hollywood to Texas?” a home school mom asked. A State Representative voting against the bill echoed the same sentiment. The glamorization of sexual promiscuity, the constant barrage of soft porn and bad values drives conservative moms to reject the ideal of luring Hollywood to Texas. Some believe it would be perfectly fine for Hollywood smut to not be produced in Texas. Louisiana and New Mexico can underwrite all they want. Reality and talk shows are also excluded from incentives.
Hudgins says the industry is not as glamorous as the critics claim. It’s about job creation, and the majority of film work does not make it to the big screen. Projects drawn by the incentive program don’t even make the Film Commission’s web-site. Glamorous film scenes displayed at www.governor.state.tx.us/film did not get shot in Texas due to the Governor’s “cash back” offer.
The new bill reduces incentive qualifications and increases payouts. While it clearly offends conservative values in a conservative state, it sailed through the 81st Texas Legislature ahead of the masses. Offered up by Democrat Donna Dukes and supported by our Republican Governor, plus numerous Republican Senators and Representatives, the justification is job creation, temporary or not; Hollywood or not.
Oh, and those parked trucks were moved around due to the recent rains. Film industry folks are still optimistically looking for that next big Lone Star movie deal.
End Notes___________________________
[i] Bill 1634 – 80th Texas Legislature (2007)
[ii] Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program, Status Report: February 17, 2009
[iii] http://www.legis.state.tx.us/BillLookup/Actions.aspx?LegSess=81R&Bill=HB873
[iv] Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program Summary - Paid Projects: March 9, 2009
[v] http://governor.state.tx.us/film/incentives/miiip - as of May 28, 2009
[vi] http://www.lptexas.org/032409NewsRelease.html
[vii] http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/%0bwitlistbill/html/HB00873H.htm
[i] Bill 1634 – 80th Texas Legislature (2007)
[ii] Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program, Status Report: February 17, 2009
[iii] http://www.legis.state.tx.us/BillLookup/Actions.aspx?LegSess=81R&Bill=HB873
[iv] Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program Summary - Paid Projects: March 9, 2009
[v] http://governor.state.tx.us/film/incentives/miiip - as of May 28, 2009
[vi] http://www.lptexas.org/032409NewsRelease.html
[vii] http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/%0bwitlistbill/html/HB00873H.htm
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Liberty Legal Institute Speaks Out on Supreme Court Nominee
PLANO, Texas – Following news of President Obama’s appointment of Judge Sonia Sotomayor of the Second Circuit Court of Appeals to replace outgoing U.S. Supreme Court Justice David Souter, Kelly Shackelford, chief counsel of Liberty Legal Institute, released the following statement:
Liberty Legal Institute specializes in First Amendment and constitutional law and is often before the Supreme Court. The Institute recently filed an amicus brief on behalf of more than 4 million veterans in Pleasant Grove City v. Summum, and will be returning in the coming session to stand for millions of veterans in the Mojave Desert Memorial case, Salazar, et al. v. Buono
“This is a sad day. The American people want judges of neutrality, not liberal activist ‘judges’ who decide cases on their feelings. Taking the blindfold off of Lady Justice is not a positive act.”
“Judicial activism robs the power of self-government from the American people. Sotomayor’s statements on judges making policy, advocating for race-viewed justice, and her decision in Ricci and in many others, which were overturned, make clear her activist approach. The only people who will be happy with this pick will be extreme activists on the left.”
Liberty Legal Institute specializes in First Amendment and constitutional law and is often before the Supreme Court. The Institute recently filed an amicus brief on behalf of more than 4 million veterans in Pleasant Grove City v. Summum, and will be returning in the coming session to stand for millions of veterans in the Mojave Desert Memorial case, Salazar, et al. v. Buono
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Tax Troubles for Transient Texans
Imagine for a moment that you own commercial lease space. You know the current economic conditions are pressuring your tenants. How will you maintain cash flow to keep from going under yourself? You have three basic choices: 1) maintain the status-quo and pray for the best, 2) raise the lease rate on expiring contracts to help offset potential tenant losses, or 3) re-negotiate the current leases at a lower rate and lock the tenants in through the downturn?
Smart property owners in Austin, Texas are choosing option three; Not so with the 81st Texas Legislature. The 81st is pursuing the failed policies of big gov'ment liberals; they like option number two. Milk transient Texans for all you can as they die off one-by-one.
Let me explain. I'm not talking about destitute Texans; it's those that use gasoline that are in danger. State Legislators are considering bills that would immediately raise the gasoline tax by fifty percent!! The gas tax could easily go from twenty cents to thirty cents, and over time it could reach forty-five cents or one-hundred twenty five percent of the current amount.
There are a number of transportation related bills that you need to pay attention to. A coalition of Texas conservatives says,
This transportation package has traction in the 81st Texas Legislature. You better get out of the car and go see your elected officials on this issue or buckle up your wallet! Stay on top of these bills and contact your representative at www.politicalhope.com/resources
God Save Texas
Smart property owners in Austin, Texas are choosing option three; Not so with the 81st Texas Legislature. The 81st is pursuing the failed policies of big gov'ment liberals; they like option number two. Milk transient Texans for all you can as they die off one-by-one.
Let me explain. I'm not talking about destitute Texans; it's those that use gasoline that are in danger. State Legislators are considering bills that would immediately raise the gasoline tax by fifty percent!! The gas tax could easily go from twenty cents to thirty cents, and over time it could reach forty-five cents or one-hundred twenty five percent of the current amount.
There are a number of transportation related bills that you need to pay attention to. A coalition of Texas conservatives says,
"The transportation tax package (HB 9, HJR 9, and SB 855) passed by the House
Transportation Committee contains the wrong ideas at the worst possible time." - http://www.texaspolicy.com/
This transportation package has traction in the 81st Texas Legislature. You better get out of the car and go see your elected officials on this issue or buckle up your wallet! Stay on top of these bills and contact your representative at www.politicalhope.com/resources
God Save Texas
Friday, May 15, 2009
Show Announcement - Special Edition
The skeptics were right. The election of Joe Straus as Speak of the Texas House has gone as predicted. His more kind and gentle hand has tilted Texas to the left. His approach has led to mo' big gov'ment in the Great State of Texas.
Michael Quinn Sullivan is the President of Empower Texans. Listen to Michael as guest host this Sunday at 4 pm when he reviews the 81st Texas Legislature. The 81st has sent over eighty-one bills to the governor thus far, and fiscal conservativism is more difficult to find in Straus' House.Michael will also talk to Ted Cruz, candidate for Texas Attorney General. Ted is described by National Law Journal as "a key voice" whom "the [U.S. Supreme Court] Justices listen to", Ted was named by American Lawyer magazine as one of the 50 Best Litigators under 45 in America, hailed as a "rising star" in the Wall Street Journal, and named by National Law Journal as one of the 50 Most Influential Minority Lawyers in America.
Listen to Michael & Ted this Sunday at 4pm. Be sure to read THE STACK, pick up the phone, and join the discussion every Sunday at 4pm. The call in numbers are ...
(512) 637-9673 (WORD)
- or -
(888) 860-9673
Call the Political Hope Radio Show to voice your opinion every Sunday at 4 pm CDT. You can hear us on The Word 98.5 & 99.3 KLGO FM Radio in Austin, or listen to live streaming on-line ...
http://www.klgo.net/content.php?id=6&bcid=145&dow=0
The Stack for May 17th
Please comment on the following stories....
GOVERNMENT POLICY
Why Conservative Priorities Stalled In Texas House
Source: www.empowertexans.com, M.Q. Sullivan, Thu, 05/14/2009
Everyone knew this was going to be a less conservative Texas House. After all, Republicans had lost seats. In this 81st Session, economically sound legislation has been killed in committee, while big-tax/big-government bills are flying. The cause? The House committee chairs, appointed by the Speaker, are overwhelmingly left-of-center; certainly out of touch with conservatives and even the general leanings of the House overall
PASTORS THRILLED TO WIN IRS RULING
Source: www.libertylegal.org, 5/12/09
Dobson Says Activism is Useless
Source: www.onenewsnow.com, Tasha Easterling, 5/15/2009
A couple of weeks ago, I blogged about recent comments made by James Dobson on the culture war and the fact that he has not waived a white flag of surrender. At that time Dobson stated he believed that the culture war was by no means over, but that Christians had entered a "discouraging period." However, Dobson may now have temporarily surrendered to the "utter evil that's coming out of the United States Congress."
Note: Dobson was speaking about impacting the Democrat controlled Federal Government, not Activism in general.
American Minute for May 14th: Israel Re-Born
Source: www.americanminute.com, Bill Federer, 5/14/2009
Midnight, MAY 14, 1948, the State of Israel came into being and was immediately recognized by the United States and the Soviet Union. A homeland for the thousands of Jews who were persecuted and displaced during World War II, Israel was attacked the next day by the Transjordanian Army, the Arab Legion, Egypt, Syria, Lebanon and Iraq. Against all odds, Israel survived.
Same-Sex 'Marriage' and Religious Liberty
Why They Can't Coexist
Source: www.BreakPoint.org, Chuck Colson, 5/12/2009
As more states—like Iowa—approve same-sex “marriage,” conservatives are claiming that freedom of religion is in peril. Same-sex “marriage” supporters accuse them of engaging in hysterical gay-bating. Who’s telling the truth?
CARRIE PREJEAN ON FREE SPEECH FIRESTORM: 'THIS SHOULD NOT HAPPEN IN AMERICA’
Watch video
Conservative activists question Charlie Crist's commitment to core GOP values
Source: www.tampabay.com, Wes Allison, Wednesday, May 13, 2009
WASHINGTON — National Republican leaders and Charlie Crist's would-be colleagues at the Capitol were beaming over the governor's announcement that he'll run for the Senate. But many conservative leaders weren't feeling so sunny.
45 Centrist Democrats Protest Secrecy of Health Care Talks
Source: www.nytimes.com, Robert Pear, May 11, 2009
WASHINGTON — Forty-five House Democrats in the party’s moderate-to-conservative wing have protested the secretive process by which party leaders in their chamber are developing legislation to remake the health care system.
COBURN AMENDMENT A WIN FOR COMMON SENSE, SAYS CCRKBA
Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms
Source: www.ccrkba.org, Press Release, May 13, 2009
BELLEVUE, WA – A key amendment that would allow national park visitors to carry concealed firearms in accordance with state statute is a common sense provision that deserves support, the Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms said today
EDUCATION POLICY
Home schoolers get 'A' from marketing exec
Source: www.OneNewsNow.com - Pete Chagnon - 5/14/2009
The chief operating officer of a marketing and networking firm is lauding the achievements of home schoolers.
Josephine Nicholas is the CEO of Published Daily, a firm started by her brother and run with the help of two other siblings. All four were home-schooled. Josephine says, according to research, home schoolers typically score higher and are more ambitious than their peers.
Some schools use state college-prep money elsewhere
Source: www.dallasnews.com, By HOLLY K. HACKER, Tuesday, May 12, 2009
State money aimed at helping prepare students for college is in some cases paying for school office supplies and utility bills – and it's perfectly legal.
ECONOMIC POLICY
White House: Budget deficit to top $1.8 trillion
Source: AP, Drew Taylor, 5/11/09
WASHINGTON (AP) — With the economy performing worse than hoped, revised White House figures point to deepening budget deficits, with the government borrowing almost 50 cents for every dollar it spends this year.
House panel advances transit funding bill as conservative opposition decries it
Source: www.star-telegram.com, DAVE MONTGOMERY, Tue, May. 12, 2009
AUSTIN — Officials in North Texas began working the phones Tuesday to help push a committee-passed transportation funding bill through the House of Representatives as conservative groups sought to derail it. The bill, approved by the House Transportation Committee on Tuesday, would allow the state’s urban counties to ask voters to approve a 10-cent-a-gallon gasoline tax to finance local transportation projects.
Statement on House passage of HB 2962, expanding CHIP and Medicaid eligibility
Source: www.texaspolicy.com, May 14, 2009
“Today’s House vote is a harmful step toward a big government health care system. If Texas extends CHIP to families making more than $66,000 per year, what was originally a health insurance program for the working poor will morph into an expensive entitlement for the middle class. - Statement by The Honorable Talmadge Heflin, Director of TPPF’s Center for Fiscal Policy
RELIGION
A Perfect (Cultural) Storm
Source: www.BreakPoint.org, Chuck Colson, 5/11/2009
Today Americans find themselves swept up in the perfect cultural storm. We have a financial meltdown caused largely by moral failures in government, Wall Street, and the public. We’re paying the bill for decades of self-indulgence, fueled by rampant relativism, rejection of the Christian work ethic, and materialism. And we have an army of Islamic jihadists who hope to destroy Israel and the Western world.
Good News: House Resolution Would Recognize America's Spiritual Heritage
Source: www.CitizenLink.org, 5/13/09
U.S. Rep. Randy Forbes, R-Va., has introduced a resolution that affirms the rich spiritual and diverse religious history of America and calls for a designated "Spiritual Heritage Week." The initiative has 38 co-sponsors.
More Giving, Less Taxing
President Obama's tax plan will hurt the very people he's trying to help.
Source: www.ChristianityToday.com editorial 5/14/2009
In recent weeks, Congress has been putting the breaks on President Obama's plan to raise an additional $318 billion in taxes to pay for the 2010 federal budget. Aside from the federal budget's mind-blowing cost of $3.6 trillion, his proposed tax increases would effectively decrease income for charitable organizations — and that would have devastating consequences for America's many needy citizens
SOCIAL POLICY
APA revises 'gay gene' theory
Source: www.OneNewsNow.com - Charlie Butts - 5/14/2009
The attempt to prove that homosexuality is determined biologically has been dealt a knockout punch. An American Psychological Association publication includes an admission that there's no homosexual "gene" -- meaning it's not likely that homosexuals are born that way.
Democrats want socialized medicine legislation by summer
Source: www.OneNewsNow.com - Associated Press - 5/14/2009
WASHINGTON- The White House is scrambling to unify Democrats behind a single health-care proposal that would extend medicare-like coverage to the middle class, putting the government in direct competition with big insurance companies.
GOVERNMENT POLICY
Why Conservative Priorities Stalled In Texas House
Source: www.empowertexans.com, M.Q. Sullivan, Thu, 05/14/2009
Everyone knew this was going to be a less conservative Texas House. After all, Republicans had lost seats. In this 81st Session, economically sound legislation has been killed in committee, while big-tax/big-government bills are flying. The cause? The House committee chairs, appointed by the Speaker, are overwhelmingly left-of-center; certainly out of touch with conservatives and even the general leanings of the House overall
PASTORS THRILLED TO WIN IRS RULING
Source: www.libertylegal.org, 5/12/09
Dobson Says Activism is Useless
Source: www.onenewsnow.com, Tasha Easterling, 5/15/2009
A couple of weeks ago, I blogged about recent comments made by James Dobson on the culture war and the fact that he has not waived a white flag of surrender. At that time Dobson stated he believed that the culture war was by no means over, but that Christians had entered a "discouraging period." However, Dobson may now have temporarily surrendered to the "utter evil that's coming out of the United States Congress."
Note: Dobson was speaking about impacting the Democrat controlled Federal Government, not Activism in general.
American Minute for May 14th: Israel Re-Born
Source: www.americanminute.com, Bill Federer, 5/14/2009
Midnight, MAY 14, 1948, the State of Israel came into being and was immediately recognized by the United States and the Soviet Union. A homeland for the thousands of Jews who were persecuted and displaced during World War II, Israel was attacked the next day by the Transjordanian Army, the Arab Legion, Egypt, Syria, Lebanon and Iraq. Against all odds, Israel survived.
Same-Sex 'Marriage' and Religious Liberty
Why They Can't Coexist
Source: www.BreakPoint.org, Chuck Colson, 5/12/2009
As more states—like Iowa—approve same-sex “marriage,” conservatives are claiming that freedom of religion is in peril. Same-sex “marriage” supporters accuse them of engaging in hysterical gay-bating. Who’s telling the truth?
CARRIE PREJEAN ON FREE SPEECH FIRESTORM: 'THIS SHOULD NOT HAPPEN IN AMERICA’
Watch video
Conservative activists question Charlie Crist's commitment to core GOP values
Source: www.tampabay.com, Wes Allison, Wednesday, May 13, 2009
WASHINGTON — National Republican leaders and Charlie Crist's would-be colleagues at the Capitol were beaming over the governor's announcement that he'll run for the Senate. But many conservative leaders weren't feeling so sunny.
45 Centrist Democrats Protest Secrecy of Health Care Talks
Source: www.nytimes.com, Robert Pear, May 11, 2009
WASHINGTON — Forty-five House Democrats in the party’s moderate-to-conservative wing have protested the secretive process by which party leaders in their chamber are developing legislation to remake the health care system.
COBURN AMENDMENT A WIN FOR COMMON SENSE, SAYS CCRKBA
Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms
Source: www.ccrkba.org, Press Release, May 13, 2009
BELLEVUE, WA – A key amendment that would allow national park visitors to carry concealed firearms in accordance with state statute is a common sense provision that deserves support, the Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms said today
EDUCATION POLICY
Home schoolers get 'A' from marketing exec
Source: www.OneNewsNow.com - Pete Chagnon - 5/14/2009
The chief operating officer of a marketing and networking firm is lauding the achievements of home schoolers.
Josephine Nicholas is the CEO of Published Daily, a firm started by her brother and run with the help of two other siblings. All four were home-schooled. Josephine says, according to research, home schoolers typically score higher and are more ambitious than their peers.
Some schools use state college-prep money elsewhere
Source: www.dallasnews.com, By HOLLY K. HACKER, Tuesday, May 12, 2009
State money aimed at helping prepare students for college is in some cases paying for school office supplies and utility bills – and it's perfectly legal.
ECONOMIC POLICY
White House: Budget deficit to top $1.8 trillion
Source: AP, Drew Taylor, 5/11/09
WASHINGTON (AP) — With the economy performing worse than hoped, revised White House figures point to deepening budget deficits, with the government borrowing almost 50 cents for every dollar it spends this year.
House panel advances transit funding bill as conservative opposition decries it
Source: www.star-telegram.com, DAVE MONTGOMERY, Tue, May. 12, 2009
AUSTIN — Officials in North Texas began working the phones Tuesday to help push a committee-passed transportation funding bill through the House of Representatives as conservative groups sought to derail it. The bill, approved by the House Transportation Committee on Tuesday, would allow the state’s urban counties to ask voters to approve a 10-cent-a-gallon gasoline tax to finance local transportation projects.
Statement on House passage of HB 2962, expanding CHIP and Medicaid eligibility
Source: www.texaspolicy.com, May 14, 2009
“Today’s House vote is a harmful step toward a big government health care system. If Texas extends CHIP to families making more than $66,000 per year, what was originally a health insurance program for the working poor will morph into an expensive entitlement for the middle class. - Statement by The Honorable Talmadge Heflin, Director of TPPF’s Center for Fiscal Policy
RELIGION
A Perfect (Cultural) Storm
Source: www.BreakPoint.org, Chuck Colson, 5/11/2009
Today Americans find themselves swept up in the perfect cultural storm. We have a financial meltdown caused largely by moral failures in government, Wall Street, and the public. We’re paying the bill for decades of self-indulgence, fueled by rampant relativism, rejection of the Christian work ethic, and materialism. And we have an army of Islamic jihadists who hope to destroy Israel and the Western world.
Good News: House Resolution Would Recognize America's Spiritual Heritage
Source: www.CitizenLink.org, 5/13/09
U.S. Rep. Randy Forbes, R-Va., has introduced a resolution that affirms the rich spiritual and diverse religious history of America and calls for a designated "Spiritual Heritage Week." The initiative has 38 co-sponsors.
More Giving, Less Taxing
President Obama's tax plan will hurt the very people he's trying to help.
Source: www.ChristianityToday.com editorial 5/14/2009
In recent weeks, Congress has been putting the breaks on President Obama's plan to raise an additional $318 billion in taxes to pay for the 2010 federal budget. Aside from the federal budget's mind-blowing cost of $3.6 trillion, his proposed tax increases would effectively decrease income for charitable organizations — and that would have devastating consequences for America's many needy citizens
SOCIAL POLICY
APA revises 'gay gene' theory
Source: www.OneNewsNow.com - Charlie Butts - 5/14/2009
The attempt to prove that homosexuality is determined biologically has been dealt a knockout punch. An American Psychological Association publication includes an admission that there's no homosexual "gene" -- meaning it's not likely that homosexuals are born that way.
Democrats want socialized medicine legislation by summer
Source: www.OneNewsNow.com - Associated Press - 5/14/2009
WASHINGTON- The White House is scrambling to unify Democrats behind a single health-care proposal that would extend medicare-like coverage to the middle class, putting the government in direct competition with big insurance companies.
Monday, May 11, 2009
The STACK for May 10, 2009
Below is THE STACK for the May 10th show. Please feel free to comment on any article, a related article or you may suggest a topic or story for future coverage.
GOVERNMENT POLICY
Teen homeschooler jailed under Patriot Act
FBI holds 10th-grader for months with little contact from family
Source: www.wnd.com, Ashton Lundeby, May 04, 2009
A 16-year-old homeschooled boy from North Carolina was taken away from his home in handcuffs two months ago and has been held by the FBI in Indiana ever since, a victim, his mother claims, of the Patriot Act spun out of control.
Little Pastoral Love for Hate Crimes Bill
Source: www.ministrytodaymag.com,
The hate crime bill passed last week by a 249-175 vote in the U.S. House of Representatives is causing an expected stir among conservatives who fought it for years. Yet just as interesting are the comments being made by pastors and Christian leaders regarding the potential effect the bill could have on their preaching.
Public Takes Conservative Turn on Gun Control, Abortion
Source: www.pewresearch.org, April 30, 2009
Public attitudes on a pair of contentious national issues -- gun control and abortion -- have moved in a more conservative direction over the past year. In both cases, the changes have been driven in part by relatively large shifts among men, while opinions among women have not changed very much.
Ignore the Rod: the Parental Rights Amendment Isn’t About Spanking
Source: www.religiondispatches.org, Kathryn Joyce, May 7, 2009
The United States is the only nation save Somalia that’s failed to ratify the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Armed with a doomsday ten-point plan including the end of spankings and the government preventing parents from bringing kids to church, the force behind the movement to prevent its ratification isn’t just a bunch of strict parents.
Texas Hold Em Poker Bill (HB-222) Witness List
EDUCATION POLICY
‘No Child’ Law Is Not Closing a Racial Gap
Source: www.nytimes.com, Sam Dillon, April 28, 2009
The achievement gap between white and minority students has not narrowed in recent years, despite the focus of the No Child Left Behind law on improving the scores of blacks and Hispanics, according to results of a federal test considered to be the nation’s best measure of long-term trends in math and reading proficiency.
Eighty-four percent of fifth-grade students and 79 percent of eighth-grade students pass TAKS math
Source: www.tea.state.tx.us, April 30, 2009
AUSTIN –Eighty-four percent of fifth-grade students and 79 percent of eighth graders passed the math Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) test on the first administration, the Texas Education Agency announced today.
Texas House of Representatives pass education bills
Source: www.impactnews.com, Wednesday, 06 May 2009
The Texas House of Representatives passed House Bill 3, an education reform bill to enhance accountability, curriculum and promotion in public schools. HB 2085, a boon to higher education in East Williamson County, also moved from the House floor
Teacher comes up short in student-filed lawsuit
Source: www.OneNewsNow.com, Pete Chagnon - 5/7/2009
A federal court has ruled in favor of a Christian student in California in a lawsuit filed in response to a history teacher's remarks concerning creationism.
Why Evolutionary Theory is Wrong about Sex
Source: www.awakengeneration.com, Sean McDowell, Dec 16th 2008
Modern evolutionary theory is based upon the idea that human beings are “designed” (their term) to be promiscuous. The basic idea is that women have sex with multiple men until they find one with the best genes. And men have sex with various women until one chooses him to father her child. Men are seen as being driven by the desire to pass their genes on to the next generation, so they search out women who will give them the greatest opportunity for success.
Women Have Not Adapted To Casual Sex, Research Shows
Source: www.ScienceDaily.com, June 26, 2008
The sexual and feminist revolutions were supposed to free women to enjoy casual sex just as men always had. Yet according to Professor Anne Campbell from Durham University in the UK, the negative feelings reported by women after one-night stands suggest that they are not well adapted to fleeting sexual encounters.
Legislature has obligation to Texas schoolchildren
State Board of Education needs more than a new chair
Source: www.statesman.com, Editorial, Friday, May 08, 2009
Don McLeroy's disastrous tenure as chairman of the State Board of Education might well have come to an end. Thank goodness. State Sen. Mike Jackson, R-La Porte, chairman of the Senate Nominations Committee, declared McLeroy's confirmation dead in the water.
Breaking: SBOE Attack Bill Fails on Third Reading!!
Source: www.freemarket.org, Jonathan Saenz, May 6, 2009
HB 710, on final House Reading, failed to pass by a vote of 71-73. This is the final House vote for this bill, so this should be it for this issue. Their is an identical bill in the Senate, SB 513, by Rodney Ellis. It has not moved at all so it is probably too late for anything happening on this in the Senate. You can count on us to keep our eye on this issue until the Legislative session ends!
Bill to put State Board of Education under Sunset fails
Source: www.dallasnews.com, Emily Ramshaw, Wed., May 06, 2009
The House defeated a bill this morning that would've put the State Board of Education under Sunset review, reversing a vote from yesterday. The bill failed by two votes today, following a voter verification. It passed by six votes on second reading yesterday
'Gay' day coming to California public schools?
Lawmakers vote to make children honor Harvey Milk – without parent consent
Source: www.worldnetdaily.com, Chelsea Schilling, May 06, 2009
SACRAMENTO – A California committee passed a bill proclaiming that the state's public school children will take a break from learning every year to celebrate Harvey Milk – a homosexual icon considered by some to be "a martyr for gay rights."
In First 100 Days, Obama Meets or Exceeds Expectations
Praise for Obama on the economy, foreign policy; criticism on budgetary mattersby Lydia Saad
Source: www.gallup.com, April 24, 2009
PRINCETON, NJ -- President Obama begins the second 100 days of his presidency with 56% of Americans believing he has done an excellent or good job thus far, and only 20% saying he has done a poor or terrible job. According to the new USA Today/Gallup poll, conducted April 20-21, about a quarter of Americans are on the fence, saying his performance has been "just okay."
ECONOMIC POLICY
124 congressman demand audit of Federal Reserve
Support multiplying for scrutiny of nation's money controllers
Source: www.wnd.com, Chelsea Schilling , May 05, 2009
A bill calling for the comptroller general of the United States to audit the private Federal Reserve is gaining widespread support in Congress, as 124 representatives have added their names to its growing list of co-sponsors.
Read the President’s Budget Proposal for Texas
Scoring The House
Source: www.empowertexans.com, Michael Quinn Sullivan, Thu, 05/07/2009
We've begun putting together the Fiscal Responsibility Index for this 81st Session. Obviously four weeks are left and a lot of legislation remains unheard, but the picture we're seeing isn't a good one. And let's not even get started on how things look in the Senate...
Conservatives Pass Bills on Cutting Small Business Taxes, Clean Energy, and Strengthening Property Rights
Source: www.txcc.org, Press Release, May 5, 2009
[Austin, Texas] – Today, conservatives in the Texas House of Representatives passed three bills to spur innovation to cut taxes on small businesses, to help the environment, and to increase protections for private property owners.
RELIGION
Black Ministers Arrested on National Day of Prayer
Source: www.charismamag.com, Adrienne S. Gaines, Thursday, 07 May 2009
Although President Obama did not host a National Day of Prayer observance, two African-American ministers prayed outside the White House today, even though it led to their arrest
Good News: California Supreme Court Sides with Christian School
Source: www.citizenlink.org, May 1, 2009
The California Supreme Court left intact a lower court ruling that said a Christian high school has the right to make decisions based on its religious beliefs, the San Francisco Chronicle reported.
The Not-for-Profit Surge
Even in tough times, your favorite charities are doing better than anyone expected.
Source: www.christianitytoday.com, John W. Kenned, 5/01/2009
Two decades ago, Carolyn Cooper took a life-changing short-term mission trip to the Dominican Republic. While she was there, her heart went out to a starving eight-month-old baby named Lusitania. The child died soon after Cooper returned to her home in New Hampshire. But Cooper determined to do something to prevent such tragedies.
SOCIAL POLICY
Obama's Mother's Day Gift to DC: Free Abortion
Source: www.frc.org, Friday, May 8, 2009
While local families plan their Mother's Day celebrations, President Obama is observing the weekend by releasing a budget that would reduce the number of D.C. moms. It seems the President's gift to Washington's women is robbing them of the joys of motherhood by offering the government's help in paying for their abortions.
Maine Legalizes Gay Marriage
Source: www.charismamag.com, Adrienne Gaines, Wednesday, 06 May 2009
Maine Gov. John Baldacci on Wednesday signed a bill legalizing same-sex marriage in his state, making Maine the fifth state to allow such unions.
Queers United & Equality Texas Support Strama’s Anti-Bully Bill
See Status & Witness List on HB-1323
GOVERNMENT POLICY
Teen homeschooler jailed under Patriot Act
FBI holds 10th-grader for months with little contact from family
Source: www.wnd.com, Ashton Lundeby, May 04, 2009
A 16-year-old homeschooled boy from North Carolina was taken away from his home in handcuffs two months ago and has been held by the FBI in Indiana ever since, a victim, his mother claims, of the Patriot Act spun out of control.
Little Pastoral Love for Hate Crimes Bill
Source: www.ministrytodaymag.com,
The hate crime bill passed last week by a 249-175 vote in the U.S. House of Representatives is causing an expected stir among conservatives who fought it for years. Yet just as interesting are the comments being made by pastors and Christian leaders regarding the potential effect the bill could have on their preaching.
Public Takes Conservative Turn on Gun Control, Abortion
Source: www.pewresearch.org, April 30, 2009
Public attitudes on a pair of contentious national issues -- gun control and abortion -- have moved in a more conservative direction over the past year. In both cases, the changes have been driven in part by relatively large shifts among men, while opinions among women have not changed very much.
Ignore the Rod: the Parental Rights Amendment Isn’t About Spanking
Source: www.religiondispatches.org, Kathryn Joyce, May 7, 2009
The United States is the only nation save Somalia that’s failed to ratify the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Armed with a doomsday ten-point plan including the end of spankings and the government preventing parents from bringing kids to church, the force behind the movement to prevent its ratification isn’t just a bunch of strict parents.
Texas Hold Em Poker Bill (HB-222) Witness List
EDUCATION POLICY
‘No Child’ Law Is Not Closing a Racial Gap
Source: www.nytimes.com, Sam Dillon, April 28, 2009
The achievement gap between white and minority students has not narrowed in recent years, despite the focus of the No Child Left Behind law on improving the scores of blacks and Hispanics, according to results of a federal test considered to be the nation’s best measure of long-term trends in math and reading proficiency.
Eighty-four percent of fifth-grade students and 79 percent of eighth-grade students pass TAKS math
Source: www.tea.state.tx.us, April 30, 2009
AUSTIN –Eighty-four percent of fifth-grade students and 79 percent of eighth graders passed the math Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) test on the first administration, the Texas Education Agency announced today.
Texas House of Representatives pass education bills
Source: www.impactnews.com, Wednesday, 06 May 2009
The Texas House of Representatives passed House Bill 3, an education reform bill to enhance accountability, curriculum and promotion in public schools. HB 2085, a boon to higher education in East Williamson County, also moved from the House floor
Teacher comes up short in student-filed lawsuit
Source: www.OneNewsNow.com, Pete Chagnon - 5/7/2009
A federal court has ruled in favor of a Christian student in California in a lawsuit filed in response to a history teacher's remarks concerning creationism.
Why Evolutionary Theory is Wrong about Sex
Source: www.awakengeneration.com, Sean McDowell, Dec 16th 2008
Modern evolutionary theory is based upon the idea that human beings are “designed” (their term) to be promiscuous. The basic idea is that women have sex with multiple men until they find one with the best genes. And men have sex with various women until one chooses him to father her child. Men are seen as being driven by the desire to pass their genes on to the next generation, so they search out women who will give them the greatest opportunity for success.
Women Have Not Adapted To Casual Sex, Research Shows
Source: www.ScienceDaily.com, June 26, 2008
The sexual and feminist revolutions were supposed to free women to enjoy casual sex just as men always had. Yet according to Professor Anne Campbell from Durham University in the UK, the negative feelings reported by women after one-night stands suggest that they are not well adapted to fleeting sexual encounters.
Legislature has obligation to Texas schoolchildren
State Board of Education needs more than a new chair
Source: www.statesman.com, Editorial, Friday, May 08, 2009
Don McLeroy's disastrous tenure as chairman of the State Board of Education might well have come to an end. Thank goodness. State Sen. Mike Jackson, R-La Porte, chairman of the Senate Nominations Committee, declared McLeroy's confirmation dead in the water.
Breaking: SBOE Attack Bill Fails on Third Reading!!
Source: www.freemarket.org, Jonathan Saenz, May 6, 2009
HB 710, on final House Reading, failed to pass by a vote of 71-73. This is the final House vote for this bill, so this should be it for this issue. Their is an identical bill in the Senate, SB 513, by Rodney Ellis. It has not moved at all so it is probably too late for anything happening on this in the Senate. You can count on us to keep our eye on this issue until the Legislative session ends!
Bill to put State Board of Education under Sunset fails
Source: www.dallasnews.com, Emily Ramshaw, Wed., May 06, 2009
The House defeated a bill this morning that would've put the State Board of Education under Sunset review, reversing a vote from yesterday. The bill failed by two votes today, following a voter verification. It passed by six votes on second reading yesterday
'Gay' day coming to California public schools?
Lawmakers vote to make children honor Harvey Milk – without parent consent
Source: www.worldnetdaily.com, Chelsea Schilling, May 06, 2009
SACRAMENTO – A California committee passed a bill proclaiming that the state's public school children will take a break from learning every year to celebrate Harvey Milk – a homosexual icon considered by some to be "a martyr for gay rights."
In First 100 Days, Obama Meets or Exceeds Expectations
Praise for Obama on the economy, foreign policy; criticism on budgetary mattersby Lydia Saad
Source: www.gallup.com, April 24, 2009
PRINCETON, NJ -- President Obama begins the second 100 days of his presidency with 56% of Americans believing he has done an excellent or good job thus far, and only 20% saying he has done a poor or terrible job. According to the new USA Today/Gallup poll, conducted April 20-21, about a quarter of Americans are on the fence, saying his performance has been "just okay."
ECONOMIC POLICY
124 congressman demand audit of Federal Reserve
Support multiplying for scrutiny of nation's money controllers
Source: www.wnd.com, Chelsea Schilling , May 05, 2009
A bill calling for the comptroller general of the United States to audit the private Federal Reserve is gaining widespread support in Congress, as 124 representatives have added their names to its growing list of co-sponsors.
Read the President’s Budget Proposal for Texas
Scoring The House
Source: www.empowertexans.com, Michael Quinn Sullivan, Thu, 05/07/2009
We've begun putting together the Fiscal Responsibility Index for this 81st Session. Obviously four weeks are left and a lot of legislation remains unheard, but the picture we're seeing isn't a good one. And let's not even get started on how things look in the Senate...
Conservatives Pass Bills on Cutting Small Business Taxes, Clean Energy, and Strengthening Property Rights
Source: www.txcc.org, Press Release, May 5, 2009
[Austin, Texas] – Today, conservatives in the Texas House of Representatives passed three bills to spur innovation to cut taxes on small businesses, to help the environment, and to increase protections for private property owners.
RELIGION
Black Ministers Arrested on National Day of Prayer
Source: www.charismamag.com, Adrienne S. Gaines, Thursday, 07 May 2009
Although President Obama did not host a National Day of Prayer observance, two African-American ministers prayed outside the White House today, even though it led to their arrest
Good News: California Supreme Court Sides with Christian School
Source: www.citizenlink.org, May 1, 2009
The California Supreme Court left intact a lower court ruling that said a Christian high school has the right to make decisions based on its religious beliefs, the San Francisco Chronicle reported.
The Not-for-Profit Surge
Even in tough times, your favorite charities are doing better than anyone expected.
Source: www.christianitytoday.com, John W. Kenned, 5/01/2009
Two decades ago, Carolyn Cooper took a life-changing short-term mission trip to the Dominican Republic. While she was there, her heart went out to a starving eight-month-old baby named Lusitania. The child died soon after Cooper returned to her home in New Hampshire. But Cooper determined to do something to prevent such tragedies.
SOCIAL POLICY
Obama's Mother's Day Gift to DC: Free Abortion
Source: www.frc.org, Friday, May 8, 2009
While local families plan their Mother's Day celebrations, President Obama is observing the weekend by releasing a budget that would reduce the number of D.C. moms. It seems the President's gift to Washington's women is robbing them of the joys of motherhood by offering the government's help in paying for their abortions.
Maine Legalizes Gay Marriage
Source: www.charismamag.com, Adrienne Gaines, Wednesday, 06 May 2009
Maine Gov. John Baldacci on Wednesday signed a bill legalizing same-sex marriage in his state, making Maine the fifth state to allow such unions.
Queers United & Equality Texas Support Strama’s Anti-Bully Bill
See Status & Witness List on HB-1323
Friday, May 8, 2009
The Mommy TAKS
The TAKS Tests are over. The kids are relieved, but will mommy be happy? The ultimate in school accountability is the “mommy TAKS”. Forget the Texas Assessment of Knowledge & Skills; momma’s assessment is what really counts.
Cynthia Nolan Dunbar & Dr. Kris Sloan are experts on School Accountability. Both are well educated. Kris has written a book, Holding Schools Accountable: A Handbook for Educators and Parents. Cynthia serves on the Texas State Board of Education and brings with her the mommy skills of Tenderness, Affirmation, Knowledge & Spirituality.
Can the State or Federal government inspire what a loving mother does out of passion for her own children? Is there any substitute for parental accountability? Should the State ever have authority over education that supersedes that of parents?
Join us for a Special Mother's Day broadcast with Cynthia Dunbar & Dr. Kris Sloan. This show will air on Sunday, May 10th and May 24th of 2009 at 4pm. Be sure to read THE STACK.
God Save Texas
Cynthia Nolan Dunbar & Dr. Kris Sloan are experts on School Accountability. Both are well educated. Kris has written a book, Holding Schools Accountable: A Handbook for Educators and Parents. Cynthia serves on the Texas State Board of Education and brings with her the mommy skills of Tenderness, Affirmation, Knowledge & Spirituality.
Can the State or Federal government inspire what a loving mother does out of passion for her own children? Is there any substitute for parental accountability? Should the State ever have authority over education that supersedes that of parents?
Join us for a Special Mother's Day broadcast with Cynthia Dunbar & Dr. Kris Sloan. This show will air on Sunday, May 10th and May 24th of 2009 at 4pm. Be sure to read THE STACK.
God Save Texas
Friday, May 1, 2009
Parker v. Parker
Christian attitudes toward political involvement are oft pessimistic. Some claim Christian involvement in the policy realm hurts the mission of the church. Others say, it has no impact and is a waste of time. Others yet cry, "we've only just begun to fight".
Take Parker v. Parker for instance. Kathleen Parker wrote, "Pragmatically speaking, the Christian coalition of cultural crusaders didn't work. For proof, one need look no further than Dobson himself, who was captured on tape recently saying that the big cultural battles have all been lost." Parker goes on to state, "Compromise may be the grease of politics, but it has no place in Christian orthodoxy, according to Deace. Put another way, Christians may have no place in the political fray of dealmaking."
Star Parker on the other hand writes, "... those who write off Christian conservatism as a political force have underestimated the driving compulsion behind traditional faith and American freedom. Just looking at who is in power does not reveal the depth of division in the country today and for the reasons that the nation is so deeply divided, may I suggest that Christian conservatism will not only survive but will thrive."
We'll tackle these questions and more this Sunday on the Political Hope Radio Show. Your thoughts and questions are needed each Sunday at 4pm. Contact us, and make your own noise about politics and religion.
God Save the U.S.A.
Brent Bullock, Minister
www.politicalhope.com
www.twitter.com/politicalhope
PS: If liberals are your main opponent in the realm of politics, we have an alert you can't afford to miss.
Take Parker v. Parker for instance. Kathleen Parker wrote, "Pragmatically speaking, the Christian coalition of cultural crusaders didn't work. For proof, one need look no further than Dobson himself, who was captured on tape recently saying that the big cultural battles have all been lost." Parker goes on to state, "Compromise may be the grease of politics, but it has no place in Christian orthodoxy, according to Deace. Put another way, Christians may have no place in the political fray of dealmaking."
Star Parker on the other hand writes, "... those who write off Christian conservatism as a political force have underestimated the driving compulsion behind traditional faith and American freedom. Just looking at who is in power does not reveal the depth of division in the country today and for the reasons that the nation is so deeply divided, may I suggest that Christian conservatism will not only survive but will thrive."
Has the Dobson political vehicle been effective? Is there a better approach? What is the Christian Right and the Conservative Movement doing that is so IRRITATING to the rest of the culture? Can Christians win in politics without winning in the culture?
We'll tackle these questions and more this Sunday on the Political Hope Radio Show. Your thoughts and questions are needed each Sunday at 4pm. Contact us, and make your own noise about politics and religion.
God Save the U.S.A.
Brent Bullock, Minister
www.politicalhope.com
www.twitter.com/politicalhope
PS: If liberals are your main opponent in the realm of politics, we have an alert you can't afford to miss.
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