Newslinks 05/02/10
May 2, 2010 at 6:30 pm | Posted in Newslinks | Leave a commentTags: abortion, Al Gore, aliens, America, Andrew Klavan, approval, Arizona, army, ateasetees, beer and bible, Bible, bicyclists, Billy Graham, Black Sea, Bob McDonnell, border patrol, budget, cancer, Capitol, cell phone, chaplain, child abuse, China, Christian, church, clowns, coffin, compromise, conservative, council, counselor, crisis, cross, deaf, death, debt, deficit, Democrats, deputy, Don't Ask Don't Tell, door, drone, drugs, Earl Blumenauer, Earth Day, England, EPA, evangelical, evangelism, faith, federal, FEMA, fiscal, fleet, Franklin Graham, freedom, Glenn Beck, global warming, God, GodTube, Goldman Sachs, GOP, gospel, government, grace, green, Haiti, Hamas, health, healthcare, hell, Hillary Clinton, Hispanic, history, HIV, Hollywood, holy, homosexual, homosexuality, hope, human, idolatry, IG, illegal, immigration, international, Internet, Iran, Iraq, Islam, Israel, IT, Jan Brewer, Japan, Jesus, Joe Scarborough, judges, judgment, Kentucky, La Raza, law, legislator, Liberty University, life, lost, love, marriage, mental illness, mercy, Methodist, Mexico, Miles McPherson, Mississippi, Mojave, money, moral, Moscow, Muslim, Napolitano, National Guard, navy, New Hampshire, Newslinks, North Korea, nuclear, Obama, orphan, panel, pastor, PCUSA, peace, pedestrians, Pentagon, pew, Phoenix, plan, porn, Post Office, postal, Presbyterian, prisoner, pro-life, Protestant, Raul Grijalva, reform, regulations, repent, Republicans, responsibility, rights, salary, salvation, Sanitation, SBC, scripture, SEC, secure, senate, shari'a, sin, South, South Dakota, stem cell, Steny Hoyer, STOXX, Sudan, Supreme Court, t shirts, Taiwan, task force, tax, Tea Party, technology, ten commandments, tension, translate, truth, U.K., Uganda, Ukraine, union, VAT, Vatican, video, Virginia, Washington D.C., White House, women, world, Wyclife
Sunday’s Newslinks brought to you by At Ease Tees
Task Force pulls out of Pentagon prayer event
An official with the National Day of Prayer Task Force believes the strongest military force in the world has bowed to pressure from a small group of people who oppose prayer at the Pentagon.
Republicans target Obama hometown
Republicans believe they’ve seen this movie before: Campaign ads blanketing the airwaves. Money from national political parties flowing in. And polls showing their candidate virtually tied with the competition.
Husband, state victimize SD woman
A South Dakota woman is fighting to have her name removed from a child-abuse registry.
Mississippi legislators form prayer group
Mississippi lawmakers may be at odds over the state budget, but they overwhelming agree on one thing — prayer.
Obama Administration Sends Mixed Message on VAT as Fiscal Commission Prepares First Meeting
Washington (CNSNews.com) – As President Barack Obama prepares to kick off his National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform on Tuesday, the administration continues to send mixed messages on whether it supports imposing a European-style value added tax on top of all existing taxes to help cover the federal government’s $1-trillion-plus deficit spending. While the official line from the White House is that the president is not considering a VAT, comments by the president and administration officials seem to leave the door open to the possibility.
Obama’s Debt Commission Will Consider a Value-Added Tax
(CNSNews.com) – When President Obama asked former Sen. Alan Simpson (R-Wyo.) and Democrat Erskine Bowles to chair his debt commission in February, he told them to consider any and all ways to reduce the federal deficit. Bowles told Fox News Sunday that “the president looked Senator Simpson and me in the eye and he said, ‘Everything is on the table.’ So we are going to look at every single way to right this fiscal ship,” Bowles said.
Senate Panel Previews Electronic Health Technology
(CNSNews.com) – The Senate Committee on Aging offered a preview of the government’s future role in health care on Friday, showing how Americans will interact with doctors and other health care providers in a wired world. The demonstration offers a glimpse at an overlooked effect of health care reform.
Republican Lawmaker Will Enter EPA’s Video Contest to Show the Downside of Federal Regulations
(CNSNews.com) – Rep. Marsha Blackburn says she will enter an Environmental Protection Agency contest intended to promote the benefits of government regulation. But Blackburn says her video entry will show that government regulations have negative consequences. “We were astounded to learn that the EPA was launching such a contest,” the Tennessee Republican told CNSNews.com.
Iran Drops Bid for Human Rights Council Seat, Eyes Women’s Rights Body Instead
(CNSNews.com) – Iran has confirmed it will no longer run for a seat on the Geneva-based U.N. Human Rights Council. Instead, it aims to become a member of an international women’s rights body – although it’s not clear which one. The prospect that Iran – with the support of other Asian states – will take a seat on a body charged with promoting the rights of women is certain to stoke controversy.
Hamas Film Clip Portrays Kidnapped Israeli Soldier Returning Home in a Coffin
(CNSNews.com) – Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu described as “despicable” an animated video clip released by Hamas on Sunday which shows an Israeli soldier who was abducted by the terrorist group in Gaza nearly four years ago, being returned to his father in Israel in a coffin. The clip demonstrated “the true character of Hamas,” Netanyahu said. The three-minute clip implies that if the Israeli government does not agree to a prisoner swap, then Gilad Shalit will be killed.
GOP Bill Would Empower Border Patrol to Secure U.S.-Mexico Border without National Guard Help
(CNSNews.com) – Legislation recently introduced by House Republicans would “prohibit the Secretaries of the Interior and Agriculture from taking action on public lands which impede border security on such lands, and for other purposes.” The bill’s supporters believe that, if it is passed, it will allow the U.S. Border Patrol to secure the southern border without the assistance of the National Guard.
La Raza President: Immigration Bill ‘Would Make Living in Arizona a Police State’ for Hispanics
(CNSNews.com) – The head of the National Council of LaRaza pleaded with Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer Thursday not to sign into law a bill that could become the toughest immigration statute in the nation. “It perpetuates the fantasy that we can detain and deport millions of people from our country as a solution to our immigration problems and it propagates the notion that immigrants who are working hard in the Arizona economy are a criminal element to be rounded up and incarcerated,” LaRaza President and CEO Janet Murguia said during a telephone news conference.
Graham’s snub reflects Obama’s influence
Pentagon advisor Bob Maginnis doesn’t think evangelist Franklin Graham would’ve been disinvited to speak at a prayer event in Washington, DC, if George W. Bush were still in the White House.
Perspective: How to stop a runaway train
Having utterly failed to derail the message of the tea party, the left has declared an all-out war on the tea partiers themselves.
Muslims a ‘protected class’ in U.K.
An author and leading critic of Islam believes two recent incidents in Britain illustrate that Muslims are quickly becoming a protected class in that country.
Feds viewing porn on gov’t computers
At the Securities and Exchange Commission, some staff members have been keeping a watch on more than Wall Street.
‘Earth Day’ wrongly emphasizes idolatry
A Christian astrophysicist says the move to “go green” may be going too far.
Vatican Backs Intestinal Stem Cell Research Initiative
The Vatican is throwing its support behind a new international research initiative to explore the therapeutic potential of intestinal stem cells.
GMO: Potential There to Reach World with Gospel by 2020
North Korea Freedom Week 2010 Kicks Off
Methodists Step Outside Pews to ‘Change the World’
New Ariz. Immigration Laws Won’t Work, Say Church Leaders
Liberty U Taps Glenn Beck to Address Class of 2010
Obama Visits Billy Graham for First Time
President Obama visited Billy Graham for the first time on Sunday when he briefly met the elderly evangelist at his North Carolina home.
Most Americans Say Judges Are Anti-Religious
‘Pinpricks’ of Truth Making Way into North Korea
Global ‘Sanitation and Water for All’ Partnership Welcomed
Church Planter Fired Over ‘Beer and Bible’
Christian Video Site GodTube.com Revived by ‘Popular Demand’
Obama Launches His Fiscal Commission; Republicans Call It A Front for Tax Hikes
(CNSNews.com) – President Obama’s deficit-reduction commission will hold its first meeting on Tuesday, and there are no restrictions on its eventual recommendations: “Everything has to be on the table,” Obama said on Tuesday. That means tax hikes and entitlement cuts are possible.
Poll: Support for Repeal of Health-Care Reform Law Increases After One Month
(CNSNews.com) – “Support for repeal of the recently-passed national health care plan remains strong, as most voters believe the law will increase the cost of care, hurt quality and push the federal budget deficit even higher,” says a new Rasmussen poll.
U.S. Postal Service Facing ‘Major Financial Crisis,’ Report Says
(CNSNews.com) – Failure to achieve a “major restructuring” of the U.S. Postal Service “will increase the risk that taxpayers and the U.S. Treasury will have to provide financial relief,” says a recent report from the Government Accountability Office. “USPS is facing a major financial crisis,” projecting a record loss of over $7 billion in fiscal year 2010, says the April 22 GAO report.
Lawmaker Calls for Hearings into Pentagon’s ‘Politically Correct’ Decisions to ‘Disinvite’ Conservative Christian Leaders
(CNSNews.com) – A conservative Republican congressman from Georgia is calling for congressional hearings to investigate actions by the U.S. military in recent weeks to cancel or rescind invitations that had been made to two prominent conservative Christian leaders — Franklin Graham and Tony Perkins — to speak at military prayer events.
Screenwriter Andrew Klavan: Conservatives ‘Have to Meet in Secret’ and ‘Talk in Whispers’ in Hollywood
(CNSNews.com) – Screenwriter and author Andrew Klavan said that in Hollywood, “(i)f you’re a conservative, especially a religious person, people have to meet in secret. They talk in whispers. It’s a very disturbing kind of culture.” Klavan, in an exclusive interview with CNSNews.com, said that he and fellow conservatives in Hollywood are battling the liberal status quo by creating entertainment that reflects the values held by the majority of Americans.
Joe Scarborough: ‘Saving the World for Moral Reasons’ Is ‘the Republican View’
(CNSNews.com) – Former Republican Congressman Joe Scarborough, now host of MSNBC’s “Morning Joe,” said if the “moral argument” to combat climate change has not convinced enough Americans to believe in global warming, then “you do have to make the Machiavellian arguments” – in other words, place political expediency above morality to address the issue.
Re-Election of Sudan’s President Underscores Limits of International Court
(CNSNews.com) – Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir, the first sitting leader to be indicted for war crimes by an international court, has now become the first indicted leader to win re-election. His victory, the result of a flawed election, underlines the inability of the International Criminal Court to enforce its decisions.
As U.S. Base Dispute Drags On, Japan’s Prime Minister Languishes in Polls
(CNSNews.com) – Eight months after his party’s historic election victory, Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama’s popularity ratings sank to new lows this week, amid a drawn-out controversy over the relocation of a United States airbase. A mass rally on Okinawa Sunday, calling for the removal of the base, added to the pressure on the government.
SEC IG Probes Timing of Goldman Sachs Suit and Financial Reform Legislation
(CNSNews.com) – Less than 30 minutes after the Securities and Exchange Commission announced its lawsuit against Goldman Sachs, the Democratic National Committee sent mass e-mails proclaiming that the action shows the need for passage of financial reform legislation — currently the top priority for President Obama. Many Republicans have questioned the timing of the lawsuit, and SEC Inspector General H. David Kotz has announced that his office will investigate whether SEC officials coordinated with political officials, something that would violate rules insulating the autonomous commission from political considerations.
Is U.S. military cowering before Muslims?
Concerned Women for America is appalled at the way the Pentagon appears more committed to appeasing Muslims, than allowing a high-profile Christian leader to share the gospel of Jesus Christ to members of the military.
Law school policy labeled ‘crazy’
A spokesman for a conservative legal group is taking note of the significance of a Supreme Court justice calling a law school policy “crazy.”
Perspective: Obama sends in the clowns
With a potential political bloodbath looming in November, liberals are understandably desperate. They see it all slipping away — and it shows.
Gore going for the green
The author of a new book says Al Gore’s mission to “go green” has nothing to do with global warming but everything to do with another green — the greenback.
Perspective: Filtering history
Those who mine history for sins are not searching for truth but for grievances that can be cashed in today at the expense of people who were not even born when those sins were committed.
Haitian Judge Clears 9 U.S. Christians of All Charges
Kidnapping and criminal association charges against 10 U.S. Christians who tried to transport Haitian children out of the country to an orphanage have been dropped.
Survey: Most Young People Are ‘Lost’ Despite ‘Christian’ Label
Most Americans Believe Jesus Speaks to Them
Presbyterians Consider ‘Strategic Plan’ to Grow, Overcome Tensions
Saving the ‘Wrongly Reached’ in the South
Faith of High Court Nominee Not Big Issue for Many Protestants
Government Report Says Global Warming May Cause Cancer, Mental Illness
(CNSNews.com) – A new government report says global warming could lead to an increase in both cancer and mental illness worldwide, and it calls for more federally funded research to determine how that might happen. The report was published by an inter-agency group comprised of scientists from the CDC, NIH, State Department, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Agriculture Department, EPA, and the Department of Health and Human Services.
FEMA Saving Millions of Dollars by Turning Off Unused Cell Phones, Internet Lines
(CNSNews.com) – FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate told a House subcommittee on Tuesday that his agency has ended “bad business” practices by turning off cell phones and shutting down Internet lines that have gone unused for years.
Hoyer Says Arizona Immigration Enforcement Law ‘Inconsistent’ with Civil Liberties
(CNSNews.com) – House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) said that Arizona’s new immigration enforcement law is “inconsistent” with American legal traditions and civil liberties. Hoyer said that such active enforcement policies should not be included in upcoming federal immigration reform.
Chinese Naval Maneuvers Unsettle Its Neighbors
(CNSNews.com) – A series of Chinese naval movements beyond its coastal waters this month has set off alarm bells in the region, prompting the Taiwanese military on Tuesday to hold a drill testing its response to an imaginary Chinese attack against its air bases.
Japan also has watched warily as Chinese war ships passed through international waters in the southern Okinawa island chain.
Ukraine’s Shift on Black Sea Fleet Is A Boost for Moscow
(CNSNews.com) – Russian lawmakers on Tuesday quickly approved an agreement allowing the Black Sea Fleet to use a port in Ukraine for another 25 years, sealing a deal that caused an uproar in Ukraine while marking another strategic victory for the Kremlin in the region it once dominated.
Mojave cross will stay
The Supreme Court has said a federal court went too far in ordering the removal of a congressionally endorsed war memorial cross from its longtime home in California.
‘Enshrinement’ of sharia a major threat
A Protestant renewal organization is calling upon churches to confront Islamic law.
Army should expect to answer for dumping Graham
Senator Roger Wicker, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, says he will question military officials about the recent snub of evangelist Franklin Graham to speak at a National Day of Prayer event at the Pentagon.
AZ’s immigration bill sees support, opposition
An immigration-enforcement political action committee is praising Arizona Governor Jan Brewer for resisting pressure from President Obama and illegal alien groups by signing a border-enforcement bill into law.
Perspective: How Mexico treats illegal aliens
To those who are protesting Arizona’s new immigration regulations: Arizona has nothing on Mexico when it comes to cracking down on illegal aliens.
Supreme Court Rules Mojave Desert Cross Can Stay
In a splintered 5-4 ruling, the justices said “the constitution does not oblige government to avoid any public acknowledgment of religion’s role in society.”
Muslims Want Franklin Graham Removed from Capitol Prayer
Evangelicals: Repealing Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell Threatens Religious Liberty
Clinton Urged to Protect ‘Fragile’ Christian Minority in Iraq
Young Adults Wear Pro-Life T-Shirts This Week
Index Provider STOXX Caters to European Christian Investors
U.S. congressman: ‘Boycott my state!’
It’s outrageous, says an immigration reform activist, that a member of Congress would call for a boycott of his own state to support the interests of foreign nationals.
Pro-life bills survive governor’s veto
Following the lead of the state’s House of Representatives, the Oklahoma Senate has voted to override two pro-life bills vetoed by Governor Brad Henry — making the bills law in the Sooner State.
OK in VA to pray in Jesus’ name
Compliments of Governor Bob McDonnell, Virginia State Police chaplains can invoke Jesus during prayers again.
Perspective: Obama Double Standard Disease
ODSD is pandemic — and the major news media is seriously infected.
You heard it right … class credit for keeping quiet
A high school in New Hampshire recently awarded credits toward graduation for students who participated in a national school-based observance for homosexual rights.
Justice Department: Border Patrol Agents Assaulted Daily, Kidnappings Every 35 Hours in Phoenix, 1 in 5 Teens using Drugs Supplied by Mexican Traffickers
(CNSNews.com) – Three Border Patrol agents are assaulted on the average day at or near the U.S. border. Someone is kidnapped every 35 hours in Phoenix, Ariz., often by agents of alien smuggling organizations. And one-in-five American teenagers last year used some type of illegal drug, many of which were imported across the unsecured U.S.-Mexico border. These facts are reported in the recently released National Drug Threat Assessment for 2010, published by the National Drug Intelligence Center, a division of the U.S. Justice Department.
Napolitano: U.S.- Mexico Border ‘As Secure Now As It Has Ever Been’
(CNSNews.com) – Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, the former governor of Arizona, told a Senate panel Wednesday that she knows the U.S.-Mexico border “as well as anyone,” and “I will tell you it is as secure now as it has ever been.”
Some Democrats See Drugs and Border Security As ‘Distraction’ to Comprehensive Immigration Reform
Washington (CNSNews.com) – Some congressional Democrats say concern about drug traffickers crossing the U.S.-Mexico border is distracting attention from the main issue of comprehensive immigration reform. “Sealing the border is not the entire issue,” Rep. Mike Honda (D-Calif.) told CNSNews.com. Other Democrats declined to discuss drugs or border security. “Got to go, sorry,” one Democrat told CNSNews.com. Another Democrat told a CNSNews.com reporter who asked about drugs and border security it was a “punkish” question.
House Committee Questions Legality of Drone Strikes against Terrorists
(CNSNews.com) – The House National Security and Foreign Affairs subcommittee held a hearing on Wednesday to question whether using drones (unmanned military aircraft) to kill terrorists violates international law. The panel, comprised of four international law experts, was largely in agreement that the use of drones by both CIA and military personnel to kill terrorists is legal.
Military is Muzzling Chaplains and Others Who Support ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ Policy, Former Chaplains Say
(CNSNews.com) – Arthur Schultz, a former Army chaplain who now is legal counsel to the National Conference of Evangelical Chaplain Endorsers, told reporters that servicemen overseas have been told not to speak in support of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.”
White House Says President ‘May Not’ Break Tax Pledge in Effort to Reduce Deficit
(CNSNews.com) – Everything must be on the table to reduce the massive federal deficit, President Barack Obama on said Tuesday. However, Obama did not address his campaign pledge to avoid raising taxes on households earning less than $250,000, and White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said the president “may not” break that pledge.
Iran Hopes to Shift Focus to Israel at U.N. Nuclear Conference
(CNSNews.com) – As President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad awaits a visa to attend next week’s nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty review conference in New York, Iran’s fellow Non-Aligned Movement members are finalizing plans to use the event to focus on Israel, not on Iran. Egypt is leading the drive to force Israel to come clean and dismantle a nuclear weapons arsenal whose existence it neither confirms nor denies.
White House Less Concerned about Religious Freedom, Report Says
Every year the issue of religious freedom is becoming less important to the White House and State Department, a bipartisan U.S. government panel complained in its annual report on Thursday.
Ex-Muslim Defends Franklin Graham’s Islam Remarks
Prayer Event Will Not Promote Anti-Gay Hate in Uganda, Ministry Assures
Movement Launches to Keep Ex-Prisoners ‘Out for Life’
Miles McPherson Tells Pastors: Pain Ain’t Going Away
China Moves Uyghur Christian Prisoner, Allows Family Visit
Hillary mum on Islam’s treatment of women
The nation’s largest public policy women’s organization is appalled that leading feminists, including Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, continue to give Muslims a pass when it comes to their treatment of women.
Political payback would ‘paralyze’ military
The Thomas More Law Center is encouraging members of Congress to defend the current statute that denies homosexuals eligibility to serve in the military.
Perspective: America’s selective salary policeman
Any doubts about Barack Obama’s ideological commitment to wealth redistribution and a command-and-control economy have evaporated.
Reversal of anti-Christian policy applauded
A pro-family group in Virginia is grateful to their new governor for taking a stand in defense of religious liberty rights — and that as a result, police chaplains in the commonwealth can resume praying in the name of Jesus.
Silence From U.S. and Its Allies Allowed Iran to Get Seat on U.N. Women’s Rights Body
(CNSNews.com) – The United States and 12 other Western democracies kept silent this week as Iran was nominated for membership on the United Nations’ Commission on the Status of Women, thus enabling Iran to get the seat. Iran, whose treatment of women has drawn criticism from human rights groups, will now help set U.N. policy on gender equality and the advancement of women.
Arizona Congressman Who Represents Border District Walks Away When Asked If He’s Committed to Sealing Border Against Drug Traffic
(CNSNews.com) – Rep. Raul Grijalva (D-Ariz.), who represents a congressional district that includes 300 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border, walked away when CNSNews.com asked him whether he was committed to sealing the border against the influx of illegal drugs. He shouted back at the reporter that it was “punkish” to ask the question.
Rep. Blumenauer: Altering Roads for Pedestrians, Bicyclists Will Boost ‘Community Vitality’
(CNSNews.com) – Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore.) said roads should be designed “to take into account all the needs of the community” and foster “balanced transportation,” which in turn makes it more desirable for people to go about their business and “participate in community vitality.”
Obama Gives Unions a ‘Massive Payback’ with Executive Order, Contractors Claim
(CNSNews.com) – The nation’s non-union contractors, who constitute the bulk of the construction industry, say President Obama has given a “massive payback” to unions by issuing an executive order that will help them secure billions of dollars in construction contracts on public projects. Critics say the move is unfair to non-union workers who represent about 85 percent of the construction industry.
Census Still ‘Struggling’ With IT Problems That May Affect Count’s Accuracy
(CNSNews.com) – The U.S. Census Bureau is still having problems with its computer system that handles the data for households that did not return a census form. However, the Census Bureau director said the system has successfully printed out the assignments for the enumerators who will conduct in-person interviews with households that did not mail in their forms.
Arizona Governor’s Approval Rating Jumps 16 Points After Signing Immigration Law
(CNSNews.com) – With the media and the nation zeroed in on the immigration debate in the state of Arizona, Gov. Jan Brewer (R) received a 16-point bump in her approval rating after signing the current immigration bill into law. Most Arizonans welcome a new immigration law, as 64 percent support the current legislation.
Faith Groups Nationwide to Protest Ariz. Immigration Law
From New York City to San Jose, faith communities this weekend will be holding prayer vigils to urge federal lawmakers to quickly pass comprehensive immigration reform in light of the recent strict Arizona law.
Wycliffe, DOOR to Translate Bible for Deaf People Groups
More Christians Stepping Up to Orphan Care Challenge
Sports Stars, Christian Music Artists Headline Anti-‘Summer Hunger’ Effort
Evangelical Presbyterian Church Expresses Concern over PCUSA Report
Christian Relationship Counselor Loses Appeal Bid
Illegal immigrants sought in Arizona deputy shooting
Law officers backed by helicopters hunted gunmen in Arizona’s desert early Saturday after a sheriff’s deputy was wounded by suspected illegal immigrants believed to be smuggling marijuana, officials said. The violent episode came amid nationwide debate over the state’s tough new immigration law.
Arizona lawmakers make conservative moves
Across the country, they are known as the conservative lawmakers who are taking illegal immigration into their own hands.
Undercover probe reveals KY clinic’s violations
Live Action, a student-led pro-life organization, has released the full video of a Kentucky abortion clinic whose staff is alleged to have violated state law.
Study: Contraception tied to HIV
A study by the Population Research Institute shows that use of a contraceptive pill is linked to a higher chance of contracting HIV/AIDS.
SBC presidency hopefuls line up
Three clergyman will be in the running to become the next president of the Southern Baptist Convention at the denomination’s annual meeting.
17 illegals captured in search for deputy shooters
Authorities searching for drug smugglers who shot and wounded an Arizona sheriff’s deputy in the desert south of Phoenix said they captured 17 suspected illegal immigrants Saturday, including three who may have been involved in the incident.
Democrats see economy and Obama as election liabilities
Republicans are on offense in scores of House and Senate races as persistent economic woes and lukewarm support for President Barack Obama continue to weaken Democrats’ hold on Congress.
Election awareness campaign launched in California
A Christian attorney is reminding his fellow Californians that all that is needed for evil to prevail is for good men to do nothing.
Lawsuit over Muslim scarf dismissed
A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit against a Michigan judge who was accused of violating a woman’s right to practice her religion when he told her to remove her Muslim headscarf.
Newslinks 03/07/10
March 7, 2010 at 4:31 pm | Posted in Newslinks | Leave a commentTags: abortion, abstinence, accounting, admiral, adviser, Afghanistan, America, American Idol, Andy Stern, Anglican, Arlen Specter, arrogant, arson, ateasetees, atheist, ban, Bashar al-Assad, Bible, Bible classes, bickering, bill, bishop, Blair House, Boehner, Buddhism, budget, business, California, cap and trade, caring, carry, Catholic, children, China, Christian, Chuck Grassley, church, code, college, compromise, condemn, conservative, cost, cross, cyber, death, debate, deficit, Democrat, denomination, depression, Digital Praise, driving, drunk, Ecumenical, election, England, Enron, Envoy, EPA, Eric Cantor, escalation, ethical, EU, evangelical, evangelism, faith, family, female, film, firing, Focus on the Family, foreign, Fox, free speech, gay, Germany, gimmick, global warming, God, gospel, green, Harry Knox, Harry Reid, hate speech, health, healthcare, heaven, hell, heritage, Hezbollah, Hillary Clinton, Homeland Security, homeschool, homosexual, homosexuality, hope, Howard Stern, hysteria, illegal, Illinois, increase, insurance, Iran, Iraq, irrelevant, Islam, Israel, Janet Napolitano, Jesus, Jew, jobs, Judge, judgment, Khalik Sheikh Mohammed, Khamenei, killing, labor, Labor Party, law, lawsuit, leaders, Left Behind, lesbian, liberty, life, love, Lutheran, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, mandate, marriage, mccain, meeting, megaphone, Messianic, Mike Pence, military, millions, mortality, mother, multi-site churches, Muslim, national, NCAA, New York City, Newslinks, nuclear, NYC, Oba-Kabuki, Obama, officers, OIC, online, opposition, ordination, Oregon, Oval Office, Pakistan, partisan, pastor, payroll, Pelosi, Pennsylvania, Planned Parenthood, pledge, politician, politicking, prayer, pro-life, professors, Protestant, PTC, public option, Rangel, reform, repent, Republican, Robert Gibbs, salvation, Salvation Army, SEIU, sex, Shane Claiborne, sin, small business, soldier, Southern Baptist, Steny Hoyer, Stephen Baldwin, submarine, summit, support, swine flu, Syrian, tax hike, taxes, teacher, ten commandments, terrorist, The Blind Side, toxic, troubling, truth, U.K., U.S., Udall, union, university, unsavory dealmaking, Up, Utah, video game, Virginia, virtual community, White House, Wisconsin, Woods
Sunday’s Newslinks brought to you by At Ease Tees
Military leaders face grilling on gay ban lift
Lawmakers this week will press the military’s top uniformed officers for the first time on whether they think repealing “don’t ask, don’t tell” makes sense or would be too disruptive.
Atheist sign = hate speech
A candidate for Illinois comptroller has sued the state over a decision related to the State Capitol building’s holiday display.
Oregon opens state’s largest abortuary
A sizable Planned Parenthood abortion facility is now open in Portland, Oregon.
Panel approves Bible classes for public schools
Kentucky may follow the lead of Texas and other states in allowing Bible classes to be taught in public schools.
Obama’s Envoy to Islamic Bloc Admits Controversial Statements About Supporter of Terror Group
(CNSNews.com) – President Obama’s envoy to the Islamic bloc acknowledged Friday that he was accurately quoted in 2004 as calling the treatment of activist Sami al-Arian, then facing trial for supporting a Palestinian terrorist group, an example of “politically motivated persecutions.” “I made statements on that panel that I now recognize were ill-conceived or not well-formulated,” he said.
‘It’s About Jobs, Stupid!’ Says GOP Whip Cantor at CPAC
(CNSNews.com) – House Republican Whip Eric Cantor (R-Va.) told a gathering of conservatives on Friday that government jobs overshadow the private sector and that to grow the economy the private sector must be allowed to flourish. Cantor made his comments at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Washington.
‘President Obama Has Lost His Mojo,’ Rep. Steve King Says
(CNSNews.com) – Rep. Steve King (R-Ind.) told attendees at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) on Friday that President Barack Obama has lost the political capital he hoped to cash in when he took the oath of office a little over a year ago. King said that between federal spending and government bailouts, the American people have lost faith in Washington.
Rep. Pence: Stop Using Taxpayer Money to Fund Planned Parenthood
(CNSNews.com) – Rep. Mike Pence (R-Ind.) earned a standing ovation at CPAc Friday when he said the United States has a moral obligation to the unborn, and that the time has come to stop funding Planned Parenthood with money from pro-life American taxpayers.
Disagree with the admiral on ‘gays’? No way!
Conservative military watchdog Elaine Donnelly says the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff was “way out of line” when he recently asked troops if they supported repealing the ban on homosexuals serving in the military.
Perspective: Time for new generation of black Americans
To the misfortune of blacks who put great hope in the redemptive powers of the Civil Rights movement, their leaders prematurely closed their Bibles.
Public option – a labor union payback – lives on
Just days before President Obama’s heavily touted healthcare summit, Senate Democrats are continuing their push for a government takeover of healthcare.
Via ‘accounting trick,’ taxpayers foot abortion bills
The number of abortion clinics in America continues to drop, but a mega-abortuary still receives government funding.
Survey: Obama Support Down among Christians
President Obama’s support among born-again Christians has decreased after a year in office, a new survey shows.
Investigators Arrest Two in Texas Church Arsons
Iran Arrests Evangelical Leader; Shuts Down Church
Wis. Presbytery Approves Ordination of Openly Gay Man
Calif. Pastor Weighs in on Abortion, Homosexuality, Woods’ Buddhism
FOTF President Pens Book on Real Strength
Breaking His Pledge? Obama Calls for Increasing Payroll Taxes on ‘Households’ Earning Less Than $250,000 A Year
(CNSNews.com) – President Obama new health care plan calls for raising the Medicare payroll tax on some households earning less than $250,000, an apparent breach of his campaign pledge not to raise taxes on families earning less than that amount. The president’s plan also calls for increasing taxes on interest, dividends, annuities, royalties and rents.
Obama’s Proposal Includes Individual Health Insurance Mandate
(CNSNews.com) – The health care plan proposed by President Barack Obama on Monday includes an individual mandate requiring every American to have health insurance, despite concerns from Republican lawmakers and legal experts that the provision is not constitutional. White House spokesman Robert Gibbs told CNSNews.com that he is not aware of any legal review of this question by the White House.
Obama Administration Sinking Millions Into Government-Run Health Care for Children
(CNSNews.com) – While Democrats and Republicans disagree on establishing a government-run health insurance plan as part of health care reform, such programs already exist – and are thriving. On Monday, Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced that 10 states will share $100 million in federal grants to improve health care quality and delivery systems for children enrolled in Medicaid and in the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
Obama’s ‘New’ Health Care Plan Would Use Tax Dollars to Pay for Abortions
(CNSNews.com) – Pro-life legislators and advocates said President Obama’s “new” health-care proposal, unveiled Monday on the White House Web site, would allow tax dollars to fund health plans that cover abortion.
Majority of Americans: Business Leaders Make Better Decisions to Grow Economy Than Government
(CNSNews.com) – A majority of Americans say business leaders make better economic decisions than the government can, according to a new poll. Respondents were asked: “Which will do more to help the U.S. economy — decisions made by government officials to help the economy grow or decisions made by U.S. business leaders to help their own businesses grow?”
College Professors Are More Likely to Believe ‘Ten Commandments are Irrelevant Today,’ New Study Says
(CNSNews.com) – Those who teach on American college campuses are more likely to agree with the statements “America corrupts otherwise good people” and “The Ten Commandments are irrelevant today,” according to a new study released Monday.
Pakistan Pressing U.S. to Turn Over Woman Convicted of Trying to Kill American Soldiers
(CNSNews.com) – More than two weeks after a federal jury in New York convicted a Pakistani neuroscientist of attempting to kill American soldiers in Afghanistan, the case continues to infuriate Muslims in her native country who view Aafia Siddiqui as the victim of U.S. injustice and anti-Muslim discrimination. Pakistan’s president has raised the matter with U.S. officials, saying the early repatriation of Siddiqui in line with a prisoners’ exchange treaty could help to improve the U.S. image in Pakistan.
Iranians’ Support for Nuclear Program Cuts Across Political Lines
(CNSNews.com) – As the U.S. and it European allies step up efforts to impose new U.N. Security Council sanctions on Tehran, the drive could play into the hands of supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei by providing an issue for conservatives and reformists to rally around. Even Iran’s opposition leaders support the Islamic regime’s right to pursue a nuclear program
Obama’s healthcare plan – ‘more of the same’
The nation’s largest faith-based association of physicians is weighing in on President Obama’s nearly $1-trillion healthcare proposal.
Perspective: Planned Parenthood and children’s sexual rights
Planned Parenthood evidently doesn’t hold religion in very high regard, calling it an “obstacle” to starting sexual health programs around the world.
In cahoots against abstinence
The ACLU has filed suit against USAID to obtain information about taxpayer-funded abstinence-only programs overseas and their connection with religion.
Obama’s budget – contempt for the wealthy?
Rick Dunham, an expert on charitable giving, has some sharp criticisms for President Barack Obama’s proposed budget.
Creation News: Design flaws in humans
Read the latest from Answers in Genesis and the Creation Museum examining news from the biblical viewpoint.
Pro-Life Groups Reject Obama’s Compromise Health Care Plan
President Obama’s new compromise health care plan changes little and would still allow for federal funding of abortion, pro-life groups warned on Monday after the White House unveiled the proposal.
So. Baptists Called to Repent, Grip Reality of ‘Lostness’
Anglicans Propel Vision to Plant 1,000 Churches
Jewish Group: PC(USA)’s Israel Proposals Will Damage Relations
Top Protestant Bishop in Germany Caught Driving Drunk
Judge Issues Arrest Warrant for Ex-Lesbian Va. Mother
A Third of All U.S. Casualties in Eight-Year Afghan War Have Occurred Since Obama Ordered Escalation
(CNSNews.com) – More than 300 U.S. soldiers have died in the war in Afghanistan since May 15, 2009, the day when the first major wave of new troops ordered by President Barack Obama arrived in the country. The 308 U.S. casualties in Afghanistan since then account for about a third of the total of 920 U.S. casualties in the eight-year war.
White House Spokesman ‘Not Sure’ If Obama’s Health Proposal Increases Taxes on Those Earning Less Than $250,000
(CNSNews.com) – White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said he was “not sure” if the new health care proposal President Barack Obama released on Monday calls for increasing the Medicare payroll tax on households earning less than $250,000 a year, which would be an apparent breach of the president’s pledge not to raise taxes on people earning less than that amount. “I’d have to look through the proposal,” said Gibbs. “I’m not sure that’s correct.”
House Republicans Gave Obama Their Health Care Proposals Weeks Ahead of Thursday’s Summit
(CNSNews.com) – Weeks ahead of Thursday’s “bipartisan” meeting on health care reform, House Republicans offered their ideas to President Barack Obama in a booklet presented to the president during his visit to the Republican Party retreat in Baltimore on Jan. 29. The 27-page booklet includes proposals on health care as well as six other issues Republicans consider vital to America’s continued prosperity: jobs, fiscal responsibility, open government and transparency, energy, savings, national security and fiscal reform.
Fifteen Years With No Global Warming Doesn’t Mean There’s No Global Warming, Says EPA Chief
(CNSNews.com) – Fifteen years with no statistically significant increase in global temperatures does not mean that the human race is not causing the climate to change, EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson told CNSNews.com on Tuesday.
White House Fails to Respond to Boehner’s Call for Resignation of Catholic-Bashing Obama Adviser
(CNSNews.com) – The White House is not responding to questions about House Republican Leader John Boehner’s renewed call for the resignation of Harry Knox, a member of the President’s Advisory Council on Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships, who recently stood by his assertion that Pope Benedict XVI is “hurting people in the name of Jesus.” Boehner said at a Feb. 3 press briefing that he believes Knox is an “anti-Catholic bigot” who should not be a presidential adviser.
Sen. Udall Sees China As Impetus for U.S. Cap-and-Trade Bill
(CNSNews.com) – Sen. Tom Udall (D-N.M.) urged his fellow lawmakers to push ahead with “cap-and-trade” energy legislation and the creation of “green jobs,” saying that China is competition for the United States and does not “have to go through the democratic processes that we do.”
Criticism of Obama’s OIC Envoy Raises Questions About the Need for Such an Envoy
(CNSNews.com) – President Obama’s decision to appoint an envoy to the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) has focused renewed attention on the Saudi-based body, and what role a U.S. envoy should play.
Small business odd man out in Reid’s bill
Senator Chuck Grassley says small businesses are the “job-creating machine” of the U.S. economy, yet the Senate majority leader’s jobs bill does not adequately help small businesses.
Grisly discovery at Penn. abortuary
State investigators have shut down a West Philadelphia abortion clinic for the second time in two days.
‘Virtual community’ for home schooling
The American Family Association has launched an online, virtual community for homeschool families.
PTC hopes to keep Stern off ‘Idol’
The PTC is asking the Fox Television Network to publicly state that shock-jock Howard Stern is not going to have a role on American Idol.
Feature: The cost of global-warming hysteria
Despite continuing Chicken Little-style cries of fear, the moral of the global-warming story remains the same: don’t believe everything you hear.
Judge Expected to Free Last 2 Baptist Volunteers from Jail
A Haiti judge is expected to free the last two American volunteers suspected of child kidnapping. Judge Bernard Saint-Vil said he would make his decision this week.
Ecumenical Head: Our Call Is to Carry the Cross
Multi-Site Churches Spreading in Post-Christian Europe
Report: U.S. Foreign Officers Need Religious Education
High Court Declines to Hear Ex-Lesbian Mother’s Appeal
Stephen Baldwin Fan Tries to ‘Restore’ Bankrupt Star
Healthcare summit in a ‘toxic’ setting
A healthcare reform expert says the White House and Democrats have created a “toxic” atmosphere in Washington for today’s healthcare summit by expressing their willingness to pursue the “nuclear option” to pass their healthcare legislation.
Complaint: Liberty U. engaged in ‘partisan politicking’
The IRS has been asked to investigate Liberty University for allegedly violating its tax-exempt status.
Muslim home schooling on the rise
A messianic Jewish leader sees pros and cons to Muslim children being home schooled.
From cyber-scared to cyber-savvy
A non-profit organization dedicated to keeping children safe online has launched a major initiative to get parents involved.
Faith, family films garner awards
The movies The Blind Side and Up have been recognized for their excellence by the Christian Film & Television Commission.
Obama Administration Did Not Consult Its Own Homeland Security Secretary Before Deciding to Try KSM in NYC
(CNSNews.com) – Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano said she was not consulted before the decision was made to try 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and other terror suspects in U.S. federal court in New York City. At a Senate Homeland Security Committee hearing on Wednesday, she also said she has not taken part in discussions since that decision was made, including any on whether the trials should be moved to another location.
Obama Administration Using Accounting Gimmicks That Would Make Enron ‘Blush,’ Republican Lawmaker Says
(CNSNews.com) – Rep. Jeb Hensarling (R-Texas) says the Obama administration is using an accounting “gimmick” in its budget by not including the debt owed by mortgage firms Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Hensarling has co-sponsored a bill that would require President Obama’s Office of Management and Budget to include the liabilities of Fannie and Freddie in the national debt calculation.
Rep. Hoyer No Comment On Tax Hikes in Obama Health Plan, Calls Idea ‘A Suggestion’
(CNSNews.com) – House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) would not say whether he supports a proposal from President Barack Obama to use certain tax increases to pay for health care reform. He described the idea as “a suggestion” at his weekly press briefing on Tuesday.
Rep. Hoyer Says No Set Deadline on Health Care Reform
(CNSNews.com) – While Congress is scheduled to be in session for a month following Thursday’s bipartisan summit meeting on health care, House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) said he can’t promise there will be any congressional action during that time. He described the Thursday’s summit as a conference.
Poll: 51 Percent of Americans More Afraid of Government Making Health-Care Decisions than Private Insurance Companies
(CNSNews.com) – In a national telephone survey conducted last week, 1,000 likely voters were asked: “When it comes to health care decisions, who do you fear the most: the federal government or private insurance companies?” Fifty-one percent said the federal government, 39 percent said private insurance companies and 10 percent said they were not sure.
House Passes Bill That Would Create More Uncertainty for Insurance Industry
(CNSNews.com) – By an overwhelming vote of 406-19, the House of Representatives on Wednesday passed a bill that would remove the longstanding federal anti-trust exemption for health insurance companies. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said the bill will provide more competition for the insurance industry. But one insurance industry trade group warned that the bill will have no practical effect, except to increase uncertainty – and litigation — for the insurance industry.
Sen. Specter and Sec. Clinton: Congressional Debate ‘Weakening’ America Abroad
(CNSNews.com) – Senator Arlen Specter (D-Pa.) and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton both said that partisan debate in Congress has hamstrung President Barack Obama’s foreign policy efforts, and weakened America abroad. Specter also said that Congress should “be backing up” Obama, rather than fighting over his policies and appointments.
Specter Suggests Oval Office Meeting between Obama, Syrians, and Israelis
(CNSNews.com) – Sen. Arlen Specter (D-Pa.) on Wednesday suggested that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad be invited to the White House for a meeting with President Barack Obama and the Israeli leadership. Specter also suggested that such a “nudge” might entice the Syrian dictator to return to peace negotiations with Israel.
Syria Seems to Ignore U.S. Calls to End Its ‘Troubling’ Relationship With Iran
(CNSNews.com) – Syrian President Bashar al-Assad welcomed Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to Damascus on Thursday, one day after Secretary of State Hillary Clinton told U.S. lawmakers that the Obama administration is urging Syria to move away from its “deeply troubling” relationship with Tehran. Meanwhile, press reports from Syria on Thursday quoted Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad as saying that Arab nations will establish a Middle East “without Zionists and without colonialists.”
Killing Terrorists Should Not Be Condemned, Israeli Opposition Leader Says
(CNSNews.com) – Israeli opposition leader Tzipi Livni wants the international community to stop criticizing the targeting of terrorists. ‘The fact that a terrorist was killed, and it doesn’t matter if it was in Dubai or Gaza, is good news to those fighting terrorism,’ she was quoted as saying.
SEIU Boss Open to Serving on Obama Deficit Reduction Commission, Supports More Deficit Spending
(CNSNews.com) – Service Employees International Union (SEIU) President Andy Stern said he would be “honored” to serve on President Barack Obama’s proposed deficit reduction commission, after it was reported that the White House was considering him for the post. He went to Capitol Hill on Tuesday to push for additional deficit spending to stimulate job creation.
Germany’s First Female Protestant Head Resigns
Just months after becoming the first woman to lead the largest Protestant church body in Germany, Bishop Margot Kaessmann has resigned.
Campaign Gives Christians Megaphone to Support Gays
NCAA Removes Focus on the Family Ad from Site
Study: Belief in ‘Caring’ God Helps Relieve Depression
Pastor Breaks Islam Code for Christians
Christian Video Game Companies Left Behind Games, Digital Praise Announce Merger
Air Force Admits Conservative Leader was ‘Disinvited’ to Speak at Prayer Luncheon Because of His Views on ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’
(CNSNews.com) – The U.S. Air Force admits that Family Research Council President Tony Perkins was “disinvited” from speaking at a national prayer luncheon held Thursday at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland because of the conservative leader’s views opposing President Obama’s efforts to end “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell – the military policy on homosexuality. “The Chaplain’s Office retracted Mr. Perkins’ invitation after his recent public comments made many who planned to attend the event uncomfortable,” the Andrews base public affairs office said in a statement issued late Thursday.
First U.S. Envoy to the OIC Says the Position Does Have Value
(CNSNews.com) – The first U.S. envoy to the Organization of the Islamic Conference, appointed during the last year of President Bush’s second term, believes the post is a valuable one and that his successor, named by President Obama this month, will do a good job. Cumber defended the position, saying “the OIC is the only forum where the U.S. can simultaneously interact with 57 Muslim-majority nations on the host of issues involving the Muslim world and the U.S.”
Muslims Furious Over Israeli Decision to Highlight Ancient Link
(CNSNews.com) – A decision by the Israeli government to include a location with an almost 4,000 year-old link to the origins of Judaism in a list of 150 national heritage sites has sparked an uproar among Muslims – and drawn the disapproval of the Obama administration. Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu insisted Thursday that the decision to include the Cave of the Patriarchs in Hebron on the list would not in any way change the status quo at the site, which has long been shared by Jews and Muslims.
Swine Flu Casualties Far Below White House Projections, Latest Mortality Data Show
(CNSNews.com) – New statistics on fatalities from the H1N1 flu strain show that it is no longer a “pandemic” in the United States, and that fatalities in America never came close to the levels projected by the White House last fall. Outbreaks in North and South America are now at a low-level, the World Health Organization said.
Polls: Americans More Concerned With Arrogant Politicians and Bad Bills Rather Than Bickering and Gridlock
(CNSNews.com) – According to a new Zogby poll, Americans are more concerned about seeing bad bills passed than getting nothing done, and more annoyed by politicians who think they are smarter than Americans than partisan bickering.
McCain rips Obama for ‘unsavory dealmaking’
A tense exchange during Thursday’s healthcare summit in Washington had the feel of a presidential campaign.
Perspective – Oba-Kabuki: A box-office bomb
The Oba-Kabuki healthcare show at Blair House kicked off with a big lie on Thursday morning — and it all went downhill from there.
Submarine ban on females may take a dive
Military readiness watchdog Elaine Donnelly disagrees with the recent decision by the Department of the Navy to lift a decades-old policy that prohibits women from serving aboard Navy submarines.
Veteran sees invitation to prayer luncheon yanked
Tony Perkins, a pro-family leader and military veteran, has been “dis-invited” to speak at a luncheon at Andrews AFB after he criticized President Obama’s call for lifting the ban on homosexuals serving in the military.
Teachers appeal mass firings
The entire staff of teachers fired in a radical attempt to improve one of the worst performing high schools in Rhode Island plans to appeal their dismissals to school authorities.
Barring Critic of Obama’s Gays-in-Military Policy From Prayer Meeting Is Attack on Free Speech, Conservatives Say
(CNSNews.com) – Conservative leaders and members of Congress expressed outrage Friday that the Air Force had blacklisted Family Research Council President Tony Perkins from speaking at Andrews Air Force Base because of his position on the military’s don’t ask, don’t tell policy. Sen. James Inhofe (R-Okla.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, told CNSNews.com that he’s “disappointed” the Air Force would “un-invite” Perkins because of his positions.
Napolitano: People From Countries Tied to Terrorism Could ‘Potentially’ Enter USA; Reports Show Thousands Already Have
(CNSNews.com) – Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano told senators on Thursday it was a national security concern that people from countries with ties to terror could “potentially” gain entry into America by crossing the country’s southern border. Her remarks on “special interest” persons came after Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) asked her about the ongoing violence in Mexico and the possibility of that violence spilling over into the United States.
Pence Says Obama Needs to Fire Catholic-Bashing Adviser
(CNSNews.com) – Rep. Mike Pence (R-Ind.) says the time is “long overdue” for President Barack Obama to fire Harry Knox from the White House Advisory Council for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships because of the “vehement anti-Catholic statements” Knox has made.
Pelosi Says She’s Running ‘Most Ethical’ Congress Ever, But Won’t Ask Rangel to Resign Chairmanship—For Now
(CNSNews.com) – House Speaker Nancy Pelosi — who pledged to run the most ethical Congress in history — noted that the ethics committee is looking into other issues involving Rep. Charles Rangel (D-N.Y.), and she made it clear that she will wait for the outcome of those investigations before taking action against her colleague.
U.K. Conservatives See Lead Erode As Election Approaches
(CNSNews.com) – The Conservative Party’s hopes of returning to power for the first time in 13 years took a blow Sunday with a poll giving it the narrowest lead over the ruling Labor Party in two years. The British election will feature live, televised U.S.-style leader debates, and it was reported last week that former White House communications director Anita Dunn has been hired to help Tory leader David Cameron prepare for the three 90-minute encounters.
In Continuing Defiance of U.S., Syrian President Meets With Leaders of Iran and Hezbollah
(CNSNews.com) – After scorning the Obama administration’s appeals to move away from Iran, Syrian President Bashir Assad late last week disregarded another appeal from Washington by holding talks with Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. As the administration prepares to send an ambassador to Damascus for the first time in five years, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton told a Senate hearing last week that Assad’s close relationship with Iran and his support for Hezbollah in Lebanon were among the issues on which it was pressuring Assad.
Obama plan favors unionism
A union watchdog group believes an Obama administration plan for government contracting would be harmful to small businesses and lead to further compulsory unionism.
Perspective: We need green money, not green jobs
The beauty of the left is that facts will never get in the way of ideology. Take the “green jobs” movement, for example — one of Barack Obama’s babies.
Dissident Lutherans forming new denomination
A new Lutheran denomination is being formed for congregations opposed to the homosexual-friendly policy of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
NCAA nixes family ad, Focus ‘befuddled’
The NCAA has withdrawn Focus on the Family’s banner ad on its website, apparently because of the organization’s stance on homosexual relationships.
Perspective: Race-baiting the Super Bowl
The old adage says that religion and politics don’t mix. Someone needs to tell FOX Sports writer Jason Whitlock that sports and politics don’t either
Iraqi Christians Protest Killings
Hundreds of Iraqi Christians on Sunday protested against the recent flare up of violence against them in northern Iraq.
EU Moves to Protect Rights of Persecuted Christians
Lawsuit Settled; 77-Foot Cross to Go Up
Utah Bill Criminalizing Illegal Abortions Sparks Debate
Deceased Man Leaves $1.2M to Salvation Army
Shane Claiborne: Faith Not Excuse to Get into Heaven
ACORN workers cleared in NYC pimp video
ACORN employees caught on video advising a couple posing as a prostitute and her boyfriend to lie about her profession and launder her earnings did not commit a crime, the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office said Monday.
HUD study – a ‘classic attempt’ to create a crisis
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is preparing a first-ever study of alleged housing discrimination against homosexuals.
Medicaid – the ‘ghetto of our healthcare system’
Healthcare reform expert Grace-Marie Turner warns that the healthcare legislation Democrats are pushing will be a major expansion of a welfare program that is already being administered poorly.
Perspective: Alice in healthcare
Nothing would lower costs medical costs more than having each patient pay those costs — and nothing is less likely to happen.
Fox anchor anchored in Jesus
Kelly Wright, an anchor with the Fox News Network, believes Jesus Christ is the only true hope for America.
White House Not Ready to Deny Democrat’s Claim That Administration Offered Him Taxpayer-Funded Job If He Wouldn’t Run Against Sen. Specter
(CNSNews.com) – White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said Monday he would have to “check on it” before he could deny Rep. Joe Sestak’s (D-Pa.) claim that the administration had offered him a high-ranking job in the administration in exchange for not mounting a primary challenge against incumbent Sen. Arlen Specter (D-Pa.), who switched parties last year, briefly giving the Democrats a 60-vote majority in the Senate. “So, at this point, the White House is not ready to deny what Sestak said?” CNSNews.com asked Gibbs. “No. I think I said I would check on it, on the situation,” said Gibbs.
Mexican Drug Cartels Active Nationwide, Obama Administration Officials Say
(CNSNews.com) – A senior Obama administration official said on Monday that Mexican drug cartels are being targeted inside the United States more than along the border with Mexico, echoing remarks last week by Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano that cartels are operating throughout the country. Assistant Secretary of State David Johnson made the remarks at a State Department press briefing when CNSNews.com asked if the plan to combat drug trafficking and money laundering around the world included dealing with Mexican drug cartels in the United States.
First Lady Credits School Cafeteria Programs for Bolstering National Security
(CNSNews.com) – First Lady Michelle Obama on Monday told a school nutrition conference that individuals who work in school cafeterias across the country not only educate and feed children, but help to strengthen national security.
Inhofe Ranked Most Conservative Senator, Sherrod Brown Most Liberal
(CNSNews.com) – Sen. James Inhofe (R-Okla.) is the “most conservative” member of the Senate, and Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) is the “most liberal,” according to National Journal magazine. The National Journal reached its conclusions by analyzing the votes of all the U.S. senators on economic, social and foreign policy issues in 2009.
Individual Mandate in President’s Health Care Plan Apparently Violates Obama’s Tax Pledge
(CNSNews.com) – The Senate health care bill included a financial penalty for anyone who goes without health insurance coverage for any month of the year, and if President Obama’s bill does the same thing, it could violate his pledge not to raise taxes on any American making less than $250,000 per year.
Only 34 Percent Support More Financial Regulations, Survey Shows
(CNSNews.com) – Only 34 percent of Americans say the government should impose further regulations on the country’s financial industry, according to a Rasmussen Reports survey published on Feb. 26. The survey also revealed that a plurality – 47 percent – oppose more government regulation of banks and investment houses, a figure that has declined slightly from the 52 percent opposition observed in December 2009.
‘Descendants of Mohammed’ Confront Newspapers Over Cartoons, Demanding Apologies and Eyeing Lawsuits
(CNSNews.com) – After securing an apology from one Danish newspaper for publishing a cartoon satirizing Mohammed, a Saudi lawyer now plans to confront another 15 newspapers, filing lawsuits against them if necessary. Faisal Yamani says he is acting on behalf of eight Muslim organizations representing “descendants of Mohammed.”
New Website to Give Citizens Cash Incentive to Hold Public Officials Accountable
(CNSNews.com) – The new Web site, “ArroganceInOffice.com,” aims to generate tips from the public on displays of arrogance by elected public officials at all levels of government, with cash prizes to the best submitted examples.
Abortion Ban Does Not Mean More Maternal Deaths, Chilean Study Finds
(CNSNews.com) – Initial findings by a biomedical researcher examining the drop in maternal deaths in the last 50 years in Chile challenges the claim made by global abortion lobbyists that broad abortion laws are necessary to guard women’s health. “This study provides evidence that the legal status of the therapeutic abortion is not related with maternal mortality reduction.
Stupak Rejects Hoyer’s New Claim That Senate Health Bill Bars Funding of Abortion
(CNSNews.com) – Rep. Bart Stupak (D-Mich.), sponsor of the successful amendment to the House health care bill that prohibits federal funds from going to any health care plan that covers abortions, rejected the assertion made Tuesday by House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) that the Senate health care bill prohibits federal funding of abortion. This is important because President Obama’s current plan to enact health-care reform requires the House to pass the Senate bill, a bill that Stupak has said he will not support.
Justice Department Won’t Name the Attorneys Who Worked on Terror Cases Despite Request From GOP Senators
(CNSNews.com) – After a conservative group posted a video on Tuesday calling for the Justice Department to release the names of department lawyers who previously worked on cases involving terror suspects, a DOJ spokesman responded with a statement that still does not name the attorneys. Republican lawmakers have raised conflict-of-interest concerns about lawyers who represented or advocated on behalf of Guantanamo Bay detainees before joining the Justice Department.
Sebelius Accuses GOP of Using ‘Politics of Obstruction’ on Health Care
(CNSNews.com) – Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius told physicians and others at the American Medical Association conference in Washington that President Barack Obama will not start from scratch on health care legislation and will “move forward” to get a bill passed. She said there was “overlap” of what Republicans and Democrats want in health care legislation, including the elimination of waste and fraud in the government-run Medicare and Medicaid programs, but Sebelius said Obama and Democrats are still dedicated to universal health care.
New Calls for Obama Administration to Add Venezuela to Terror-Sponsor List
(CNSNews.com) – Accusations about links between the Venezuelan government and terrorists in Colombia and Spain add weight to calls to designate Venezuela as a state sponsor of terrorism, a Latin American specialist said Tuesday. Heritage Foundation scholar Ray Walser was commenting on claims by a Spanish prosecuting judge that President Hugo Chavez’s government had assisted two terror groups that plotted to assassinate Colombian President Alvaro Uribe.
Obama Administration’s Stance on Falkland Islands Dispute Seen As Betrayal by Some in U.K.
(CNSNews.com) – The Obama administration’s decision to not to back Britain in its dispute with Argentina over the Falkland Islands has left British commentators pondering the state of the “special relationship.” Standing alongside Hillary Clinton in Buenos Aires on Monday, Argentine President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner expressed the desire to negotiate with Britain over the islands. Clinton agreed with her host that the two countries should “sit down” and negotiate. She also did not rule out a U.S. role.
Global-Warming Scientists ‘Need to Go Back to Square One,’ Rep. Barton Says
(CNSNews.com) – Global warming has not met scientific criteria, and scientists need to find a theory that matches the facts, Rep. Joe Barton (R-Texas) said Tuesday at the U.S. “This whole theory of global warming is just that: It’s a theory. It’s based on models.”
Rep. Boehner Defends Sen. Bunning’s Reason for Blocking Benefits Extension As ‘Legitimate’
(CNSNews.com) – House Minority Leader Rep. John Boehner (R-Ohio) defended Sen. Jim Bunning’s (R-Ky.) hold on a $10-billion extension in unemployment and other benefits, saying the senator has “a legitimate argument.” Democrats just passed pay-go legislation, and not even a week after the president signed it into law, they want to exempt the first bill that comes across the Senate floor,” Boehner said.
Judge rules against religious expression
A judge in Montana has ruled against a high school valedictorian who was not allowed to speak at her graduation ceremony because she wanted to give God credit for her success.
Mail delivery – time for open competition?
The U.S. Postal Service is making bleak predictions about its financial future, leaving many observers to wonder if a taxpayer bailout is in the offing since Congress sets many of the rules the agency operates under.
Rifqa’s immigration status tenuous
A former Muslim, now a Christian pastor, is concerned that 17-year-old Rifqa Bary could be deported back to Sri Lanka when she turns 18 if she is unable to get approved for permanent U.S. residency.
Chaplain Corps threatened by policy change
A pro-family leader and former military officer is very concerned about the future of the U.S. military Chaplain Corps if President Obama is successful in ending the ban on homosexuals serving in the military.
Parenting: Breaking the cycle of teen drug abuse
Don’t ever think that a treatment program or rehab is a “cure.” It’s just a fresh start down the road to recovery.
Luis Palau to Preach to 20,000 at Chinese Megachurch
American evangelist Luis Palau will preach to an overflow crowd of up to 20,000 people at a megachurch in mainland China this month.
High Court Denies Request to Block D.C. Gay Marriage
Shirley Dobson Dismissed from Lawsuit against National Prayer
Prominent Conservative Unseated in Texas Ed Board
Judge Urges Teen Convert, Muslim Parents to Reconcile
Human Rights Group Seeks Freedom for Converts to Worship in Muslim World
God of Islam is ‘biggest terrorist’
The son of a Hamas leader who helped Israel’s security forces kill and arrest members of the Islamic terrorist group says he’s not afraid to die. Mosab Yousef is now a convert to Christianity.
Wildmon steps down
Rev. Don Wildmon, the founder of the American Family Association, has resigned as chairman following a lengthy illness — but he’s not setting aside his passion for families and the pro-family movement.
Bible Belt school policy under attack
A battle is brewing in a North Mississippi community over the upcoming high school prom.
Perspective: ‘Paygo means paygo’
In February, President Obama told Congress it must “pay for what it spends, just like everybody else.” All Sen. Jim Bunning did was hold fast to that.
Pastor predicts Obama’s first term will be his last
A conservative black pastor and activist believes President Barack Obama is on course to be a one-term president.
Dems Advance Obama’s Nominee for Justice Department Post, Despite GOP Opposition to Her Pro-Abortion, Anti-War Views
(CNSNews.com) – The Senate Judiciary Committee on Thursday voted 12-7 along party lines for the full Senate to cast an up-or-down vote on Dawn Johnsen to head the Office of Legal Counsel at the Department of Justice. Republicans say Johnsen’s past activism with liberal groups and her pro-abortion stance disqualify her for the post.
Geneva Summit Will Focus on Countries Mostly Ignored by UN Human Rights Body
(CNSNews.com) – When the U.N. Human Rights Council continues its month-long session in Geneva on Monday, a coalition of human rights groups will hold a parallel event focusing on some of the items kept off the HRC agenda by its powerful members. The human rights of Iranians, Cubans, Tibetans, Uighurs and Burmese will be the focus of the two-day Geneva Summit for Human Rights, Tolerance and Democracy.
Congressmen Rally Public’s Support to Stop Prosecution of Navy SEALs
(CNSNews.com) – Members of Congress – this time armed with more than 100,000 signatures – renewed their call for top Pentagon officials to drop charges against three Navy SEALs for allegedly mistreating an al Qaeda terrorist suspected of killing four Americans in Iraq. “They should not be court martialed but hailed as heroes for doing their job,” said Rep. Dan Burton (R-Ind.) at an event outside the Capitol.
Rep. Boehner Rebuts House Speaker Pelosi’s Claim That Health Care Bill Doesn’t Fund Abortion
(CNSNews.com) – “Under the Senate bill, everyone who buys a health policy at one of the so-called exchanges will pay a monthly abortion fee,” House Minority Leader John Boehner said on Thursday. “That goes into a fund to pay for elective abortions. Now, you can argue that this $1-per-month fee that everyone’s going to be charged isn’t a tax, but you try to explain that to the American people. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, at her weekly briefing on Thursday, repeated her position that the Senate bill does not fund abortion.
Hatch: Biden Will ‘Go Down in History as a Real Dolt’ If He Overrules Senate Parliamentarian
(CNSNews.com) – Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) said Vice President Joe Biden should not use his power as president of the Senate to overrule the Senate parliamentarian on the legitimacy of Democrats using a 51-vote majority to pass their health-care reform bill. Senate bills normally require at least 60 bills to pass.
Senate Republican Leader Won’t Say Whether Bunning Was Right or Wrong in Blocking Unemployment Extension Bill
(CNSNews.com) – Sen. Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) wouldn’t say whether his fellow Republican colleague from Kentucky — Sen. Jim Bunning — was right or wrong in arguing that the $10 billion unemployment extension bill should not be passed unless it is paid for without adding to the national debt. “Well, we moved on to a new bill,” Sen. McConnell told CNSNews.com on Wednesday.
Hatch: Media ‘Suckered’ Into Believing Democrats’ ‘Whining and Moaning’ About GOP
(CNSNews.com) – Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) said the Democrats had “no reason to gripe” over Sen. Jim Bunning (R-Ky.) delaying a vote on a benefits extension bill earlier this week because they have “59 votes on their side” and can basically do what they want in the Senate.
Churches Unveil Plan to Ease Plight of Black Men
Three historic black denominations on Wednesday unveiled a new national plan aimed at keeping their young males out of prison and in school and church.
‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ Repeal Introduced amid Opposition
Don Wildmon Resigns as AFA Chairman
Anglican Head Defends Uniqueness of Christ
Pastors Reveal ‘Aha!’ Moments in Ministry
Iranian Pastor Has Visible Marks of Torture, Says Wife
Is Obama buying votes?
A conservative congresswoman is calling for an independent investigation to determine whether President Obama is attempting to trade a federal judgeship for a vote in favor of his healthcare reform plan.
Perspective – The Obama way: Bluster, bully, bribe
Wherever did we get the impression that pay-for-play is the Obama way? Hmmm…let me count the ways.
Soldiers left out of policy change debate
A pro-family leader and former Marine says it will be up to people outside the military to voice concerns about the negative consequences of repealing the ban on homosexuals serving in the military.
Perspective – Don’t ask, don’t bleed
What’s changed in the debate over the homosexualization of the U.S. military? In truth, the only thing that has changed — thank you, Mr. Obama — is politics.
Hobby Lobby – a heart for health
A Christian-owned national retailer has just opened a health clinic for its full-time employees.
MacArthur Tells Christians: Don’t Fornicate with the World
“The church, if it is to be anything, it is to be absolutely distinct from the culture, absolutely distinct from the world, absolutely distinct from unbelievers,” said prominent author and evangelical pastor John MacArthur.
Christian Youths ‘Cry Out’ for Persecuted Believers
Episcopal Clergy Permitted to Wed Gay Couples in D.C.
Okla. Schools Closer to Offering Bible Course
Washington Bishop: Religion Is Fault Line in Many Conflicts
UK Churches Campaign for Nuclear-Free World
Son says Billy Graham still writing, counseling
Rev. Billy Graham has retired from preaching, but the 91-year-old evangelist is still writing books and offering spiritual counsel to callers and visitors.
Homeless congregation serves others
Rescue Atlanta is a church that focuses on inner city residents and the homeless, and their approach is unique and effective.
Church services halted at public housing unit
A Dallas church that has held Sunday worship service at a public housing apartment complex for the elderly for 14 years has been ordered to stop.
Men filing more sexual harassment complaints
The number of sexual harassment claims filed by men doubled over the last decade.
Soros manipulates euro – is U.S. dollar next?
Jerome Corsi suspects left-wing billionaire George Soros is trying to manipulate the euro as part of his goal of establishing a one-world currency and a one-world government.
Newslinks 01/10/09
January 10, 2010 at 12:32 pm | Posted in Newslinks | Leave a commentTags: 2012, abortion, Afghanistan, AIDS, Al Qaeda, Allah, Amanda Simpson, assisted suicide, ateasetees, bailout, Bible, Big Brother, biochemist, bishop, Brit Hume, budget, cap, car bomb, Catholic, charity, Christian, Christmas, Chuck Smith, church, Congress, Constitution, criminal, death, Democrat, DHS, diversity visa, do something, drive by shooting, ELCA, embassy, evangelism, Fannie Mae, fear, First Lutheran Church, flight, Freddie Mac, full body scanner, gay, Gitmo, God, grace, healthcare, hell, HIV, home school, Homeland Security, homophobia, hope, immigration, independent, international, Iran, Iraq, Jesus, judgment, legality, lesbian, LGBT, love, Malaysia, mercy, merger, Michael Leiter, military, mob, Montana, Moody Bible Institute, Muslim, Napolitano, NARAL, National Marriage Week, Newslinks, Newt Gingrich, Nigeria, no fly list, North Korea, Obama, Pelosi, Planned Parenthood, Polaris Project, poverty, Pray for America, pro-life, prophecy, publicity, Ray Stevens, Republican, retail, Rick Warren, same sex marriage, Sarah Palin, security, sex offender, sin, ski vacation, slavery, split, Steven Baldwin, suspended, Tea Party, teacher, terror, tetrapod, Tim Tebow, traps, treasury, truth, U.S., vampire, We The People, White House, Yemen
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DHS Plans to Catch Only One in Four Travelers Committing ‘Major’ Criminal Violations While Entering U.S. on International Fights in 2010
(CNSNews.com) – Documents produced by the Department of Homeland Security indicate that in fiscal 2010, the department is planning to catch only 26 percent of travelers committing major criminal violations while seeking to enter the United States through international airports. DHS documents also indicate that the department will fail to screen against law enforcement databases 15 percent of travelers entering the United States in 2010 through all official ports of entry.
Pro-Abortion Advocates Praise Abortionist, Blast Pro-Life Efforts
(CNSNews.com) — The pro-abortion group NARAL Pro-Choice America is asking visitors to its Web site to cast votes for the person who has done the most for their movement. Nominations include abortionist LeRoy Carhart, who is one of the few to perform late-term abortions in his Nebraska clinic.
Combat-Related U.S. Military Deaths in Afghanistan Double Over Last Year, IEDs Major Cause
(CNSNews.com) – There were 272 combat-related deaths of U.S. military personnel in Afghanistan in 2009, as this story went to press on Dec. 31. That number is more than double the 135 combat-related deaths in 2008. The majority of the combat-related deaths in 2009 were caused by roadside bombs, also known as improvised explosive devices.
More question legality of Senate healthcare bill
Constitutional historian David Barton says American courts would have to overturn their last 80 years of jurisprudence to uphold the constitutionality of the healthcare bill in Congress.
Senate abortion support may lead to legal battles
Healthcare reform could lead to court battles if the Senate bill becomes law.
Treasury lifts bailout cap
A regulatory policy expert says the Obama administration is pursuing an odd strategy designed to prop up the housing market – make even more bad mortgage loans.
Church votes to split from ELCA over homosexual clergy
The congregation of the First Lutheran Church of Harvey, ND, has cast the first of two votes to split from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
Prospects rosy for adult stem-cell treatments
The past decade spelled success in research with adult stem cells.
Pray for America Campaigns Kick Off 2010
Rick Warren’s End-of-Year Plea Raises $2.4M for Church
Malaysian Gov’t to Appeal Christian ‘Allah’ Ruling
Obama Returns from Church-Less Christmas Vacation
Montana Becomes 3rd State to OK Doctor-Assisted Suicide
Report Finds Over 1,200 Crimes Against Churches in 2009
U.S. Pastors Encouraged to Join Nat’l Marriage Week Effort
Pastor Chuck Smith to Be Released from Hospital
Ministry Launches Effort to Plant Prayer Rooms Across All U.S. Colleges
Muslim Mob in Pakistan Wounds Christian Family
Obama’s 2010 budget includes ‘poverty traps’
Remember when candidate Barack Obama said he wanted to “spread the wealth around”? One researcher suggests he’s been successful in doing that.
Perspective: The faith of Tebow, the ire of the left
The media’s secular left already dislikes Tim Tebow’s public faith. Think about their reaction if he shows up in a pro-life Super Bowl ad…
A fine line – sex offenders in church
A North Carolina judge has struck down part of a state law restricting activities of registered sex offenders.
NARAL recognition a badge of honor
A national pro-life group views its recent recognition as a distinct honor.
Is Napolitano on the ropes?
Immigration reform proponent William Gheen is calling for the resignation of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano in the wake of the attempted hijacking of a U.S. airliner Christmas Day. Time to replace Napolitano (commentary by Star Parker)
Car Bomb Explodes Near Iraqi Church; Dozen People Injured
Malaysian Gov’t Appeals Ruling on Christian ‘Allah’ Use
U.K. Teacher Suspended after Offering to Pray for Student
Stephen Baldwin Takes His Faith to the Celebrity Big Brother House
Moody Bible Institute, Michigan Theological Seminary Complete Merger
Homeland Security’s National Operations Center ‘Unable’ to Do Its Job, Inspector General Finds
(CNSNews.com) – The Homeland Security Department’s National Operations Center (NOC) is “unable” to do its job of ensuring coordination among the 22 federal agencies that make up the Department of Homeland Security and focuses too much on disaster management rather than terrorism prevention, according to its own inspector general. After Hurricane Katrina, “the NOC began to dedicate most of its resources to emergency management rather than terrorism prevention. Many NOC staff contend that this shift in focus is detrimental to NOC intelligence and law enforcement functions,” the report says.
Pro-Life Advocates Plan to Protest Opening of Largest Abortion Clinic in U.S.
(CNSNews.com) – A coalition of pro-life advocates and religious leaders plans to gather in Houston on Jan. 18 to oppose what is expected to be the largest abortion clinic in the country. Planned Parenthood is renovating a former bank into a 78,000 square foot facility, which will include a surgical wing equipped to provide late-term abortions. “It’s an abortion super center,” one pro-life activist said.
White House to State AGs: No ‘Legitimate Constitutional Concerns’ in Senate Health Care Bill
(CNSNews.com) – The White House on Tuesday dismissed the concerns of 13 state attorneys general about the constitutionality of a clause in the Senate health care bill that singles out Nebraska for special treatment when it comes to covering the cost of expanding Medicaid coverage. “I have not seen the letter from the attorneys general” but “I do not believe that anybody has legitimate constitutional concerns about the legislation,” said White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs.
Pelosi Pledged to Give Public ‘Ample Amount of Time’ to Read Final Health Bill
(CNSNews.com) – While Nancy Pelosi is now dodging a request from C-SPAN CEO Brian Lamb to open up House-Senate negotiations over the final version of the health-care bill so C-SPAN’s cameras can show them to the public, back in July she pledged she would give the public an “ample amount of time” to read the final bill before brining it to a vote. Listen to her say it.
Democrats and Republicans Oppose Obama Move Giving Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Unlimited Funding
(CNSNews.com) – Democrat and Republican lawmakers alike are blasting the Treasury Department’s Christmas Eve announcement that it will send unlimited tax money to failed mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, thereby eliminating the current $400 billion cap on emergency aid that Treasury can give without having to come back to Congress for authorization. This means Treasury can continue to manage the companies, which were seized last year, until the end of President Obama’s current term.
State Department Using ‘Diversity Visas’ to Encourage Immigration to U.S. from Terror-Ridden Yemen
(CNSNews.com) –The State Department has awarded 1,011 special “diversity visas” allowing Yemeni nationals to immigrate to the United States since 2000, the year of the terror attack on the USS Cole in the Yemeni port of Aden. The “diversity visas” are designed to encourage immigration from countries that do not otherwise send significant numbers of people to the United States.
Control-conscious Dems seek unorthodox route
Congressional Democrats will apparently bypass a conference committee in order to get healthcare reform passed more quickly.
Perspective: Obama and the Vampire Congress
Instead of a promised ethical and transparent administration, Democrats have delivered a creepy legislative environment that could double as a Twilight movie set.
Sour notes – ‘homophobia’ and music ed
The Illinois Family Institute is weighing in on an intriguing article that appeared in the December issue of the Music Educators Journal.
Restrictive home school legislation up for vote
New Hampshire lawmakers are set to vote on a bill that one attorney has described as “the most anti-home school legislation ever conceived” in that state.
Schools agree to end Bible distribution
Public school officials in Wilson County, Tennessee, have agreed to stop distributing Bibles to students during the school day on school grounds.
Persecution List: N. Korea, Iran Top Oppressors of Christians
Churches Called to ‘Do Something’
Southern Baptist Pastor Counters 2012 Doomsday ‘Prophecies’
Orthodox Christmas Marked Amid Protests in Bethlehem
Best Christian Workplaces Announced for 2010
U.S. Embassy in Nigeria Had ‘Major Problems,’ State Department Inspection Found
(CNSNews.com) – The most recent State Department inspection, conducted in 2002, found that the U.S. consulate in Lagos was “in serious trouble” due to chronic staff shortages, while the U.S. embassy in Abuja relied primarily on junior staff, contract employees, and State Department retirees on temporary assignment to fill “key positions.” The report found that the lack of key staff hampered any and all “substantial progress” at the embassy, preventing it from making improvements in any of its functions.
U.S. Paid for Full-Body Scanners at Nigeria’s Four International Airports in 2007
(CNSNews.com) – The four international airports in Nigeria are equipped with full-body scanners — the same technology that the United States and other countries are now scrambling to put into place following the attempted bombing of an American airliner on Christmas Day by a Nigerian terrorist. The scanners in Nigeria were paid for by the United States and installed in 2007, according to the State Department’s 2008 Country Reports on Terrorism.
One in Five Gitmo Suspects Returns to Terror, Pentagon Finds
(CNSNews.com) – A Defense Department spokesman told reporters on Wednesday that Pentagon officials are working to declassify a report showing that almost 20 percent of the prisoners released from Guantanamo Bay in Cuba are either confirmed or suspected to have engaged in terrorism again. That’s almost double the recidivism rate reported in December 2008.
Less Than One Percent of ‘Known or Suspected Terrorists’ Were Put on ‘No Fly’ List
(CNSNews.com) – As of one month ago, less than one percent of the people designated as “known or suspected terrorists” by the U.S. government had been put on the “No Fly” list that the Department of Homeland Security uses to screen air travelers, according to data provided to the Senate Homeland Security Committee on Dec. 9.
Man in Charge of Analyzing Terror-Threat Info Did Not Interrupt Ski Vacation After Attempted Airplane Bombing, Report Says
(CNSNews.com) – President Barack Obama did not interrupt his Hawaiian vacation when a Nigerian man tried to blow up a U.S.-bound airliner over Michigan on Christmas Day, and neither did Michael Leiter, the director of the U.S. National Counterterrorism Center. Leiter — appointed by President George W. Bush — was mentioned Thursday on cable TV outlets as someone who eventually may be fired as a result of the major security breach.
Ray Stevens’ Song ‘We the People’ Becoming Anthem of Tea Party Movement
(CNSNews.com) – Grammy Award-winning music artist Ray Stevens has recorded a song that is fast becoming the anthem of the Tea Party Movement.
“We the People” is about Obamacare and the health-care reform bills that have passed both houses of Congress.
Brit Hume: Media Backlash Over His Remarks to Tiger Woods About Christianity Reflects ‘A Double Standard’
(CNSNews.com) – Fox News analyst Brit Hume said he was “not surprised” by the media backlash over his remark that Tiger Woods look to Christianity for help in redeeming his personal life. Hume says there is a “double-standard” when it comes to speaking publicly about Christianity versus other religions.
Obama appoints transgendered LGBT activist
President Obama has named Amanda Simpson to a post in the Commerce Department, making Simpson perhaps the first-ever transgender appointment in a U.S. presidential administration.
Jesus Christ – ‘two most explosive words,’ says Hume
Fox News analyst Brit Hume says he doesn’t regret urging Tiger Woods to become a Christian so the golfer can find forgiveness for marital infidelity.
Perspective: Sarah Palin – Wrong prescription for America?
The former GOP VP candidate isn’t smart enough to be president, you say? Not articulate enough? Has poor judgment? Don’t get me started…
‘Wrecking ball’ wrong approach to reform
The president of a non-partisan seniors’ advocacy group says two U.S. senators who decided not to seek re-election are the first victims of a senior citizen tsunami.
War on terror primarily a ‘war against young Muslim men’
Terrorism expert Robert Spencer disagrees with the premise of a newly released U.S. government study on homegrown terrorism that contends extremism is contrary to the true teachings of Islam.
Obama Administration Underestimated the Immediate Threat Posed by ‘Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula’
(CNSNews.com) – President Obama and his White House counterterrorism adviser on Thursday accepted responsibility for attempted terror attack on Christmas Day that could have knocked an airliner out of the sky over Michigan. “We didn’t know [al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula] had progressed to the point of actually launching individuals here,” John Brennan said Thursday. “We knew that they sought to strike the United States and that they were recruiting operatives to do so,” Obama said.
Obama Declares America ‘At War’ with Al Qaeda, Offers New Security Initiatives
(CNSNews.com) – President Barack Obama is directing all intelligence to be “distributed more rapidly and more widely” among federal agencies; he wants greater integration of intelligence analysis; and he’s order security agencies to immediately add more people to the terrorism watch list, specifically the “no fly” list.
More Independents Choosing ‘Conservative’ in Obama’s First Year, Survey Says
(CNSNews.com) – According to a compilation of all Gallup political identification surveys from 2009, 40 percent of Americans identified themselves as conservatives, more than the 36 percent who answered moderate and far more than the 21 percent who answered liberal. The percentage of American Independents who identified as conservatives – 35 percent – increased at the fastest rate in 10 years between 2008 and 2009.
Catholic Bishops Launch New Push for Immigration Reform, Pathway to Citizenship
(CNSNews.com) – The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) is launching a new push to get immigration-reform legislation enacted in 2010. The group backs a Democrat-sponsored bill that grants a pathway to citizenship for people who came to this country illegally.
Pelosi ‘crazy,’ ‘very confused’ on church teachings
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s recent interview with Newsweek Magazine is creating a stir in the pro-life community.
Children best served by mom’s lesbian relationship?
An official with the Illinois Family Institute says it’s outrageous that a judge has permitted a mother to take her children from their dad in order to move in with her lesbian partner.
‘Obama Doctrine’ detrimental to U.S.
National defense analyst Frank Gaffney agrees with the assessment of former House Speaker Newt Gingrich that Americans are less safe than they were a year ago when Barack Obama took office.
Perspective: To profile or not to profile
Observing strange behavior is a legitimate and needed part of law enforcement and airline security. It is not “profiling.”
U.S. missionary’s NK incursion: Publicity stunt?
An advocate for persecuted Christians calls U.S. missionary Robert Park’s incursion into North Korea on Christmas Eve a “publicity stunt” that’s likely to do more harm than good.
N.J. Senate Rejects Same-Sex Marriage Bill
World Vision: Anti-Gay Bill Could Undermine HIV/AIDS Work
Egyptian Police Arrest Suspects in Drive-By Church Shooting
Tetrapod Footprint Discovery Busts Evolutionary Paradigm, Says Biochemist
Christian Retailers Target Mega-Retailers in Federal Probe
California gay marriage opponent fears for his life
An outspoken gay marriage opponent serving as an official litigant defending the state’s ban on same-sex weddings on Friday asked a judge to remove him from the lawsuit because he feared the trial would generate publicity that could endanger him and his family.
Pro-life group scrutinizing Catholic charity
American Life League is challenging the Catholic Campaign for Human Development and the Archdiocese of San Francisco.
Churches attacked amid ‘Allah’ dispute
Malaysian officials say attackers have fire-bombed one church and tried to set another ablaze amid a growing conflict over the use of the word “Allah” by non-Muslims.
Fellowship trains to fight slavery
The Polaris Project is bringing the next generation into the anti-slavery and anti-trafficking movement.
U.S. missionary’s NK incursion: Publicity stunt?
An advocate for persecuted Christians calls U.S. missionary Robert Park’s incursion into North Korea on Christmas Eve a “publicity stunt” that’s likely to do more harm than good.
Newslinks 10/17/09
October 17, 2009 at 6:30 am | Posted in Newslinks | Leave a commentTags: abortion, anti-meat, ateasetees, attempted murder, baby, Baltimore, ban, Baucus, Bible, bishop, Catholic, CBO, Chamber of Commerce, Christian, civil rights, climate change, Clinton, Democrat, Disney, EEOC, ELCA, emerging, Emily Douglas, EPA, evangelism, FCC, Francis Collins, free speech, GAO, gay marriage, global warming, GMA, God, Harvey Milk, healthcare, homosexual, Hoyer, Hudson River, illegal immigrants, Iran, Israel, Japan, Jesus, Lebanon, lesbian, Lieberman, marriage, meatless Monday, Middle East, military, mom, Montana, morality, MTV, NAE, Nobel, nuclear, Obama, Pakistan, parent's rights, pastor, peace, Pelosi, pro-life, Rangel, recession, Republican, Rifqa, Russia, sanctions, Schwarzenegger, t-shirt, tax, traditional, Twitter Bible, U.N., Zachary Christie
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Health Bill Would Make It Harder to Deduct Medical Expenses, but That Won’t Affect Middle Class, Democrat Claims
(CNSNews.com) – A Democratic member of the Senate Finance Committee claims that a provision of the Senate health-reform bill will not make it more difficult for middle-class Americans to deduct medical expenses on their tax returns. But Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) says that is because “most Americans” don’t itemize their income tax deductions.
Pro-Life Democrats May Block Health Bill If Pelosi Won’t Allow Vote on Abortion Funding Ban
(CNSNews.com) – Rep. Bart Stupak (D-Mich.), co-chairman of the House Pro-Life Caucus, told CNSNews.com that Democrats who oppose government funding of abortion will try to block the health care reform bill from coming to a vote on the House floor unless House Speaker Nancy Pelosi allows a floor vote on an amendment that would explicitly prohibit abortion funding. “There are many of us Democrats in the House who are philosophically, legally, and morally opposed to public funding for abortions,” Stupak told CNSNews.com in a statement.
Scientists Rebut Claim That Man Causes Climate Change
(CNSNews.com) – A small group of determined scientists gathered in a Senate office building Friday to present evidence backing their claim that climate change is caused by nature, not man, and that carbon dioxide is not a pollutant but the hope for a greener planet. Continue Reading Newslinks 10/17/09…