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America The Beautiful: Now A Nation Which Stands Divided

EDITOR’S NOTE:  Dodie Smith, who hails from Texas, is a community activist, small business owner and a spokesman for America’s seniors.  Smith is a frequent contributor to RFFM.org.

What Has Happened To My Country?  

By Dodie Smith

What has happened to my country?  I ask this question over and over again and the answer gets harder and harder.

I remember a country that once was free.  There was truly a sense of community.  Neighbors knew each other, helped one another when the need was there and every neighbor knew each child for blocks around and a neighborhood was literally an extended family.  A country where fathers retired and there were jobs for graduating sons and daughters to step into--if they wished. 

Today our government is giving away our lumber and exporting our mineral wealth for pennies on the dollar to foreign countries.  Our steel, our processing plants, our clothing manufacturing, our leather products, even our cattle and hog business, all are now dominated by foreign countries.  

Many wonder why our educated young people are walking the streets and causing trouble.  The answer is in front of them; we sold out to foreign wants and left our children without a place to enter the work force.   In the past, mothers worked, but always had time to cook for their families and helped their children with homework.  Parents once set curfews for children.

Today, parents on the whole are more interested in material things, their position in the community, their own lives, trying to live up to the neighbors--like Smith and Jones.  Though I have to give credit to those who recognize their place as parents and try to do the best they can, the peer pressure plays a role in parenting which often hinders their judgment in the guidance of their children.  

In 1962, we took God and prayer out of our public schools which has led to a lack of moral clarity and the evolution of humanism that has played a harmful role in the development of the character of young people.  In 1962, atheist Madelyn Murray O’Hare was successful in removing prayer from public schools and America has suffered the consequences.

*In 1963, our President, John F. Kennedy, was assassinated.  *In 1964, we entered into the Viet Nam War which resulted in the deaths of over 58,000 Americans.  *Beginning in the mid1960’s, drugs hit America and its young people--resulting in the ruined lives of untold millions and the deaths of countless others.  *In 1968, the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated.  *In 1968, Robert F. Kennedy was assassinated.  *In the late 1960’s, America was on a path to self-destruction with rioting in our institutions of higher learning, the burning of our cities and the overall corruption of traditional values.  *In 1974, President Richard Nixon resigned due to the Watergate scandal.  *In 1975, Viet Nam fell to the Communist North which put into question whether thousands of brave men and women died for a cause that was never clearly defined, as they fought a war with one hand tied behind their backs.

Some say the sexual revolution (sex, drugs and rock & roll) has enlightened the minds of Americans, but the above clearly seems to indicate the United States is losing God’s blessing.  Perhaps it’s not too late to get back to the Godly principles which made this country the greatest nation to ever exist on Earth.  It is truly up to us.

In the past, families went to church together--whole families…grandparents, parents and children.  They sat together and enjoyed the wisdom-filled loving words of God.  Parents taught their children to be respectful.

But in the last fifty years, America changed from a melting pot of different cultures who came together to represent a unified country to a culture where we now separate ourselves along racial, ethnic and religious lines.  The influx of illegal immigrants who flaunt our laws and depress our economy has led to a country lacking unity and purpose.

Even legal immigration has not given those who enter our country time and encouragement to assimilate into our culture.  American citizens have to “Press 1 for English”.

What has happened to the nation that fought two wars to set the world free from tyranny and oppression?  A country that had one language, one law, the Constitution, a flag that was respected and an anthem that was loved by all.   What happened to a once sovereign nation?  What happened to a government that is supposed to protect us, not control our lives?  What happened to honest leaders?

We are now electing politicians, instead of statesmen.  An elite selfish few push for a one-world government in a quest for power and wealth without limits.

Our government once encouraged its citizens to respect and praise God.  But now many in our country condemn God and reject His Word, allowing Him to be shoved into a closet. 

There is an old saying which tells us those who forget history are doomed to repeat its mistakes.  Is America the new Roman Empire which also fell to the barbarians at its gates and the foes within?

 

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Mark Kirk, A Homosexual? GOP U.S. Senate Opponent Andy Martin's Radio Ads Open Can Of Political Worms

by Daniel T. Zanoza, Executive Director

 

Ever since Mark Kirk announced his campaign seeking the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate seat in Illinois currently held by Roland Burris there have been many "rumors" regarding Kirk's sexual preferences.  Indeed, these "rumors" have been around for years concerning Mark Kirk, but they have been dismissed because of Kirk's relatively low political profile.  Journalistically, it would have been irresponsible of me to go with the story for a number of reasons. 

 

Some have asked me why I did not address the allegations Kirk was possibly a homosexual and, for any honest journalist, the answer should be obvious.  My reply was:  If someone comes to me with incriminating evidence regarding Kirk's sexuality, I would consider it a story.  It would take an individual coming forward with photos, videotapes, and/or communications back and forth indicating a homosexual relationship which Kirk took place in.  My standards would have been very high before running with the story.  Of course, this is in contrast to modern day journalism which has abandoned the true tenets of the profession.  However, in many cases, the tabloids, including the National Enquirer, have been more accurate in their coverage of controversial issues.  This is a sad statement when the tabloid press can be trusted more than the mainstream media.  Yes, the tabloids have stories about UFO abductions, wild conspiracy theories and other issues meant to titillate the public. 

 

However, in recent years, the mainstream media has sold its soul to political correctness, a left wing political agenda and what I call journalism by omission.  For example, it took two individuals barely out of college to break the story which exposed the corruption within ACORN.  Charlie Gibson, the former anchor of ABC News, when asked about the allegations of widespread corruption uncovered by the two twenty-something's responded by chuckling and saying, "we'll leave that story to cable."  Gibson was inferring, for obvious political reasons, that the serious allegations surrounding ACORN had no merit. 

 

Most Americans now agree the dominant media has a clear political agenda which led to the election of Barack Obama and, until this day, does its best to cover up stories that might reflect poorly on the Obama administration. 

 

On Monday, December 28, 2009, Andy Martin, a candidate seeking the Republican senatorial nomination, created a firestorm when he brought the question regarding Mark Kirk's possible homosexuality to public light.  Martin's radio ads are now running across the state and the subject matter of "rumors" about Kirk's alleged homosexuality went viral.  In essence, Martin used a statement by a supporter of one of his Republican political opponents to breach the issue of the "rumors" which have dogged Kirk for years from GOP political insiders.  The "rumors" of U.S. Rep. Mark Kirk's sexual preferences have been percolating just under the surface of the political ether.  What Martin's ad accomplished is to force Kirk to address the subject.

 

Kirk, a U.S. Naval Intelligence Officer, is currently on active duty, which is very convenient for him in many ways.  Being unavailable for comment, it allows his campaign team time to figure out a strategy to combat these allegations of homosexuality which, if true, would doom his U.S. Senate bid. 

 

Yes, I know, what consenting adults do behind closed doors is something that has become sacrosanct in a politically correct world.  At least that is the mainstream media's take on the subject, especially when it applies to Democrats.  Congressman Barney Frank (D-MA) actually lived in a home in which his same-sex partner was running a brothel for homosexuals.  This is a fact, not a rumor, but if it were a Republican who was caught up in a similar situation, he would have disappeared from the political scene years ago. 

 

Many agree the dominant media would like to see Mark Kirk win the Republican primary for the U.S. Senate.  Kirk, who languished in virtual anonymity since he replaced long time Republican incumbent John Porter as the U.S. Representative for Illinois' 10th Congressional District, has suddenly received an inordinate amount of attention from the dominant press both in Illinois and nationally.  Kirk, who is currently in his fifth term in the U.S. House of Reps., is widely portrayed as the clear frontrunner in the GOP primary for the U.S. Senate by the liberal mainstream media. 

 

However, Kirk has come under withering fire from Illinois Republicans regarding his voting record.  Yet clearly in violation of political protocol, individuals, including Illinois GOP Chairman Pat Brady, have openly endorsed Kirk's candidacy and encouraged Party leaders to follow suit.  In actuality, the Republican establishment should not endorse a candidate before the Party's primary which, in this case, is on February 2nd of 2010.  Brady should be neutral in this process, but there have been numerous circumstances when Kirk has been the obvious recipient of the Republican establishment's largesse.  Kirk was even endorsed by national GOP Party Chairman Michael Steele, who later backed off his support for Kirk, after learning of the widespread animosity levied towards Kirk by both fiscal and social conservative Republicans in Illinois. 

 

Kirk now finds himself in an untenable position.  If Kirk came forward and admitted he is a homosexual, he would be in clear violation of the military's "Don't ask, don't tell" policy regarding homosexuals openly serving as a member of the U.S. Armed Forces.  Therefore, Kirk is painted in a political corner concerning this situation.  Now that the question is out there regarding his sexual preferences, if Kirk is a homosexual, he cannot tell the truth because if he would do so, it would end his career in the Navy and essentially end his status as a viable candidate in Illinois' U.S. Senate race--no matter how tolerant American society is supposed to be regarding the subject of homosexuality. 

 

Subsequently, one can look at Kirk's situation as being analogous from a legal perspective rather than the political.  Can circumstantial evidence answer the questions which now haunt the minds of many Republican voters in Illinois regarding the "rumors" of Kirk's possible homosexual lifestyle? 

 

Kirk's Voting Record On Issues Related To Homosexuality

 

How has Kirk voted on issues regarding legislation such as the recent hate crime bill signed into law by Barack Obama?  Kirk was one of a handful of Republicans who openly supported a bill which might one day restrict First Amendment speech about the issue of homosexuality.  For example, in some nations, under penalty of law, ministers can no longer quote Holy Scripture and the writings therein, citing homosexuality as an abomination to God.  Many who are critical of the hate crimes law believe the slippery slope theory will one day take effect in the United States as well and those who oppose homosexuality on religious and moral grounds will be subject to fine and/or imprisonment. 

 

Kirk is also a co-sponsor of ENDA (Employment Non-Discrimination Act), legislation pending in the U.S. House of Reps. and the Senate that, if passed, would ban discrimination in the workplace based on a person's sexual orientation.  ENDA would also protect lesbian, gay, bisexual and transsexual individuals.  The bill would protect this group from discriminatory hiring, firing, promotion or compensation practices, as well as retaliation for reporting such practices. 

 

The main sponsor of the House bill (H.R. 3017) is Barney Frank, an open homosexual with a radical agenda.  Mark Kirk is only one of two Republicans who are co-sponsors of the legislation in Illinois, along with Judy Biggert (R-Naperville).  Other Illinois U.S. Reps. who are co-sponsors of the bill include Danny Davis (D-Chicago), Bill Foster (D-St. Charles), Phil Hare (D-Belleville), Jesse Jackson (D-Chicago), Debbie Halvorson (D-Kankakee), Mike Quigley (D-Oak Park), Bobby Rush (D-Chicago) and Jane Schakowsky (D-Chicago).

 

In Illinois, Democratic Senators Roland Burris and Dick Durbin are co-sponsors of a version of the House bill (S.1584) which is virtually the same legislation.

 

Kirk has also been a favorite of Log Cabin Republicans, a single-issue organization devoted to the promotion of the radical homosexual agenda.  They have supported Kirk throughout his entire political career.  One must look for the quid pro quo regarding the Log Cabin Republicans endorsement of Mark Kirk. 

 

Soon, the Obama administration will make an effort to rescind the "Don't ask, don't tell" policy which currently exists regarding members of the U.S. Armed Forces.  Obama made this promise during the run up to his election to the presidency in 2008.  The "Don't ask, don't tell" policy, which was first put in place by the Clinton administration, would essentially allow homosexuals to openly serve in the military.  This would be a violation of the Uniform Code of Military Justice and it would take an act of Congress to change federal law regarding this issue which is clearly a priority on Obama's agenda. 

 

Many political observers believe the current administration will attempt to lift the restrictions on homosexuals openly serving in the U.S. Armed Forces after the health care reform bill is either passed or defeated and Obama makes an effort to ram through Cap and Trade legislation--which many experts agree would devastate America's already depressed economy.  Mark Kirk was one of eight Republicans who voted for Cap and Trade in the House of Reps. which passed the legislative body earlier this year.  After receiving devastating criticism from the Republican faithful, Kirk now says he would change his vote on Cap and Trade--if he had the chance to vote on the legislation again.

 

But the underlying question is:  Has Kirk promised groups, including the Log Cabin Republicans, that he would support Obama's rescinding of the "Don't ask, don't tell" policy which is currently in force. 

 

Finally, Mark Kirk is the only Republican seeking the nomination for the U.S. Senate from Illinois who did not fill out a questionnaire from the Illinois Family Institute (IFI) for use in the not-for-profit group's non-partisan voter guides.  Some of the questions addressed on the pro-family organization's questionnaire which Kirk refused to fill out involved his position on legislation which will directly have influence on pending bills directly related to the homosexual agenda. 

 

Certainly, this is all circumstantial evidence which does not prove Kirk is a homosexual.  But, right or wrong, reasonable individuals may connect the dots on the issues, since the question of Kirk's sexual preferences have come to light. 

 

The Mainstream Media's Agenda 

 

Why would the liberal mainstream media want Mark Kirk to win the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate in Illinois?  After all, the dominant press has also been well aware of the allegations regarding Kirk's possible homosexuality for years.  In Washington, D.C., the allegations regarding Kirk's sexuality are an open secret.  In essence, liberal members of the dominant press would not pursue the issue concerning Kirk's sexuality--until he would have won the GOP nomination.  But it is a fait accompli that if Kirk wins the Illinois Republican primary and becomes the Party's candidate in the 2010 general election for the U.S. Senate, Kirk's Democratic opponent, whoever that may be, would be aided by the liberal press who would doggedly pursue the "rumors" in search of evidence regarding Kirk's sexual preferences.  If the allegations are proven to be true, this would virtually guarantee a Democratic victory in an election year when the Democratic Party is widely predicted to suffer huge losses in the Senate and, especially, the House of Representatives. 

 

Moral & Political Implications

 

But there is a question that looms over this issue like the Sword of Damocles.  I personally believe what consenting adults do behind closed doors is between them and God.  However, this moral and Biblical standard does not apply when it comes to those seeking political office.  It would be naive to believe one's personal behavior would not bleed over into their duties as an elected official who has been given the authority to represent their constituency.  After all, Kirk himself admits he voted in favor of Cap and Trade because this, supposedly, represented the views of those in Illinois' 10th Congressional District. 

 

If Kirk is indeed a homosexual, it would be reasonable to suggest he would have empathy concerning the homosexual agenda which impacts not only Illinois, but our nation as well.  If elected to the Senate, Kirk would be given the power to sponsor, endorse and eventually vote for issues which are not consistent with both the state and national Republican Party platforms.  Therefore, the question regarding whether or not Kirk is a homosexual is germane.

 

The political realities regarding the subject of homosexuality breached in Andy Martin's radio ads bring into serious question whether Kirk is indeed the frontrunner for the GOP nomination to the U.S. Senate in Illinois, no matter what the state's Republican establishment or the mainstream media says concerning the issue. 

 

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Gitmo Detainees Come To Illinois: Quad Cities Nuclear Power Plant 20 Miles Away, Oops!

by Daniel T. Zanoza, Executive Director

 

Here is a bright idea.  Take a gaggle of the most dangerous terrorists in the world, move them from a very secure holding facility in Guantanamo Bay (Gitmo) and transfer them to a prison in a sleepy little Illinois town.  This is the brilliant plan of U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder.  Currently, a board is meeting to put its stamp of approval regarding the transfer of Khalid Sheikh Mohammed (KSM), the admitted mastermind of 9/11, and a number of other Gitmo detainees to the Thomson Correctional Facility in Thomson, Illinois.  The Mayor of this sleepy little hamlet is all a flutter.  "It'll bring thousands of jobs to the area," said Mayor Jerry Hebeler.  What Hebeler failed to address is the fact KSM and his band of killers will attract like-minded individuals to his sleepy little town, nestled away in northwestern Illinois.

 

Illinois Governor Pat Quinn reportedly will have the final say on whether the transfer will take place.  But let's say the move is a fait accompli.  U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin and every other Democrat in Illinois have fallen all over themselves touting how the new high security federal facility will make Illinois a better place to live. 

 

I don't know who originally came up with the bright idea concerning the Gitmo transfer to Illinois, but the proposal doesn't hold water.  Sorry about the reference to water because KSM was waterboarded at least 183 times before he gave up information which exposed other terrorist plots targeting the United States.  But I digress.

 

The alleged thousands of jobs that will be created when the Gitmo killers are housed in a small town near the Mississippi river is laughable.  Most of the personnel needed to man such a high security facility will have to be imported from out of state.  Yes, the administrators and guards will need a place to live, they will buy groceries and they will have to put gas in their government provided hybrids.  But here is something that is a hidden benefit from the plan.  There is a nuclear facility just about 20 miles south of Thomson, Illinois.  For those driving hybrids, it would be a good place to plug in.  For those who are worried about global warming, a charge from the power plant would certainly put the Thomson Correction facility within range for all those who care deeply about our environment. 

 

But wait a minute.  Just who will be visiting KSM and his cohorts when they eventually end up in America's heartland?  Will visitors include Girl Scouts selling cookies?  Or perhaps a group of Boy Scouts from a nearby town just down the road might want to drop in to have a chat with the man responsible for killing over 3,000 people on September 11, 2001.  Or perhaps KSM's visitors list will include some individuals who don't exactly look upon the U.S. as the land of the free and the home of the brave. 

 

However, let's get back to charging up those hybrids.  The Quad Cities Generating Station is a dual unit Boiling Water Reactor nuclear power station.  Oops!  Let's see if I have my ducks in a row or should it be turkeys since bringing some of the most notorious people in the world en masse to a facility located a mere stone's throw from a nuclear power plant took the brains of the bird who just went through some hard times over Thanksgiving and Christmas. 

 

Anyone who lives in a town or city where a prison is located understands that soon to follow will be those who have relationships with those who are incarcerated there.  Some of those who move in are innocent friends and relatives of the inmates, others are associates in crime or, in KSM's case, fellow terrorists.  These people don't end up leaving the area either.  They buy homes, they rent apartments or, in the case of the Gitmo detainees, I expect local hotels will suddenly have an influx of customers named Omar Smith, Khalid Kelly or Osama Johnson.  All kidding aside, has the Obama administration completely lost its mind?  Perhaps they could have transferred to the prisoners to the nuclear power plant itself.  After all, this might cut into the nation's soaring deficit because the facility already has well trained security and AG Holder could have killed two birds with one stone, so to speak. 

 

Bringing a bunch of American-hating, terrorist-loving individuals to an area just miles away from what would be a juicy target in any terrorist's manual would be as easy as drawing flies to a rotting carcass.  Now, if there are those who think I am giving away details which might impact national security, I have some nice ocean front property in Nevada for sale.  Just contact Senate Majority leader Harry Reid for more details.  Anyone who thinks the Cordova nuclear power plant hasn't crossed the minds of those who would like to advance their deadly religious agenda with a big bang surely are aware of what lies a half hour away from their fearless leader.  I know it sounds too ridiculous to be true, even for the Obama administration.  No one could be that idiotic or naive, could they?  Or perhaps the word naive isn't the proper description for those who formulated this plan to make Illinois the international home away from home for Islamic terrorists. 

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If William Kelly Does Not Understand Simple Facts About Displays In Illinois State Capitol Building, How Can He Be Comptroller For Entire State?

Kelly says: "There is a lot of false information coming out about what happened yesterday."  He's right...and it's coming from Kelly.

 

by RFFM.org staff writer

 

On Wednesday, December 23rd, 2009 GOP candidate for Illinois state comptroller, William J. Kelly, attempted to remove a sign placed in the state capitol Rotunda by the Madison, Wisconsin-based Freedom From Religion Foundation.  A statement on Kelly's website reads, "As a candidate for comptroller, I believe it is absolutely wrong for Illinois’ officials to be spending tax dollars to denigrate and mock good people of faith." 

 

Critics say William Kelly was attempting to use the Springfield Nativity Scene display for his own political agenda.  Kelly's actions were not spontaneous.  RFFM.org learned Kelly issued a press release on December 22, 2009 which read, "GOP candidate for comptroller, William J. Kelly, plans to remove the American Civil Liberty Union’s atheist display at the Illinois Capitol in Springfield, Illinois."

 

Clearly, from the beginning, Kelly did not have his facts in order regarding exactly what was on display in the Illinois state capitol Rotunda building.  Standing in the center of the state capitol floor was a Nativity scene sponsored by the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee.  There was a Hanukkah Menorah also on exhibit; a sign from the Illinois Chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union supporting the right of these religious displays to stand in the state capitol; and an easel which related a message from a group of pagans posing as atheists which call themselves the Freedom From Religion Foundation.  It is obvious Kelly did not actually know who put up the displays in the capitol Rotunda and which groups said what on their signage.  According to his own press release, Kelly originally intended to abscond with the ACLU sign which actually supported the right of the religious displays to stand in the capitol. 

 

Most egregious is the fact Mr. Kelly says, "...it is absolutely wrong for Illinois’ officials to be spending tax dollars..."  The truth of the matter is all of the displays in the state Capitol Rotunda are privately funded.  That's what makes them legal.  This, plus the fact all the displays are temporary demonstrates Kelly acted without possession of the facts involving why the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee was able to erect a Nativity scene for the second year in a row.  The only money Illinois taxpayers spent regarding the displays was the cost involving the 15 law enforcement officers who escorted Kelly out of the Rotunda, before briefly detaining him to write up an incident report. 

 

If Kelly was not in possession of the simple facts regarding his blatant attempt to attract publicity, especially the economic aspects of the issue, some critics ask: "How could Kelly be comptroller for the entire state of Illinois?" 

 

In a phone conversation with Daniel T. Zanoza, Chairman of the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee, Kelly said, "We won't let them take the Nativity scene out of the state capitol building." 

 

"I was stunned," said Zanoza, "I asked Kelly whether he was running for state comptroller, Secretary of State or Governor.  Even if Kelly was elected state comptroller, Kelly would have no input into who could or could not obtain a permit to place a display in the state capitol building.  It was a foolish boast, but I genuinely had compassion for the man because he was so ill-informed."

 

Zanoza went on to say he is happy this year's display of the Nativity scene went on virtually without a hitch.  Thousands of people came to the capitol Rotunda to see the Nativity scene.  One committee member told me she was nearly brought to tears when she saw a family, consisting of a Father, Mother and three young children who were viewing the statues of Joseph, Mary and the Christ child.  A five year old, the oldest of the children, said, "I love baby Jesus!"  With a loving smile, the Father looked at his son and said, "I love baby Jesus, too!"   

 

"This is what the Nativity scene is all about," said Zanoza.  "It is a celebration of the birth of Christ.  It's truly unfortunate there are those who put their own agenda above others."

 

Zanoza says the Springfield, Illinois Nativity scene is not about controversy.  The actions of individuals like Mr. Kelly is what led to officials in the state of Washington prohibiting all groups from displaying any exhibits--religious or otherwise--in that state's capitol building in Olympia.  

 

"I'm kind of glad the Nativity scene is coming down for this Christmas season," said Zanoza.  "We don't need individuals like Kelly ruining something wonderful for their own selfish political purposes." 

 

RELATED ARTICLES: 

 

Illinois State Comptroller Candidate William J. Kelly Uses Springfield Nativity Scene For Publicity Stunt:  http://rffm.typepad.com/republicans_for_fair_medi/2009/12/illinois-state-comptroller-candidate-william-j-kelly-uses-springfield-nativity-scene-for-publicity-s.html 

 

State Journal-Register article by Bernie Schoenburg: Surely he jests:  http://www.sj-r.com/opinions/x1136811925/Bernard-Schoenburg-Hoffman-Giannoulias-duel-over-Bright-Start-accord 

 

ACLU Again Not Challenging Springfield, Illinois Nativity Scene: Isn't That Special! It Is: http://rffm.typepad.com/republicans_for_fair_medi/2009/11/aclu-again-not-challenging-springfield-illinois-nativity-scene-isnt-that-special-it-is.html 

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Springfield Nativity Scene Represents America's Legacy Regarding Judeo-Christian Heritage

By Beth Rogers

Speech Tells How Nation's Leaders Perceived The Role Christianity Has Played In U.S. History

 

Beth Rogers of Springfield is a highly respected pro-family activist.  The following speech was given at the Second Annual Opening Day Ceremony of the Springfield Nativity Scene in the Illinois state Capitol Rotunda Building on December 1, 2009.  Rogers is also a member of the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee.  

 

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

 

I will begin by reading from a public document from the Preamble of the Illinois State Constitution, “We the people of the State of Illinois grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberty which He has permitted us to enjoy and seeking His blessing upon our endeavors in order to provide for the health, safety and welfare of the people to maintain a representative and orderly government. “

 

We have gathered here today to celebrate a long standing tradition and to exercise First Amendment rights of the United States Constitution.  The First Amendment states: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion nor prohibit the free exercise thereof.  The Constitution was signed 'in the year of our Lord 1787'".  For the second year in a row, the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee has sponsored a display depicting the birth of Jesus Christ.  This display stands in accordance with the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution which provides for such religious expression in the public square.

 

The birth of Christ was over 2,000 years ago and the Christmas tradition has been around long before our nation was founded.  The tradition continued in the United States even as President George Washington’s family celebrated Christmas.

 

There is an historical significance of Christmas because of the major role that Christianity has played in our heritage and history.  The majority of our Founding Fathers had a Christian worldview.  This is evidenced in their many references to God and the Holy Scriptures.  Thomas Jefferson believed that God, not government, was the Author and source of our inalienable rights.  For over 200 years, our past presidents have taken their oath of office on the Bible.  Even President Barrack Obama took his oath on Abraham Lincoln’s personal Bible.  Abraham Lincoln made many references to God.  He said, “The Bible is the best gift God has ever given to man.”  This book contains the story of the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem, his life and his death on a cross.  When the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum and Library opened in Springfield in 2005, one of the songs that was sung in the public square was "The Battle Hymn of the Republic." The fourth verse in this song says:  

 

“In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea,

With a glory in his bosom that transfigures you and me,

As he died to make men holy, let us die to make men free,

While God is marching on."

 

There is evidence of the role of faith throughout our American history.

 

From at least 1789 there is an unbroken history of official acknowledgement of God by all three branches of our government.

 

1.  Our Presidents have had prayer and acknowledgements of God.

 

2.  Congress opens with prayer.

 

3.  Since 1789 the Supreme Court opens its business with the words, “God save the United States and this honorable court.”

 

There are numerous examples in Washington, D.C. of an undeniable link between the U.S. government and God--from U.S. Currency to the government buildings.  The Supreme Court has the Ten Commandments inscribed in four places.  The Washington Monument includes a Bible in its cornerstone.  The White House, Library of Congress and the Jefferson Memorial all have references to God.  This is evidence that our forefathers believed in God and biblical principles.

 

CHRISTMAS

 

Christmas is a federal holiday with a SPECIFIC NAME.

 

The Supreme Court has acknowledged that government has long recognized holidays with religious significance such as Christmas.

 

The United States post office has issued stamps with Mary & Jesus with the words “Christmas” on the stamp.  The stamp highlights a detail of Italian artist Salvi's painting, "Madonna and Child," circa 1685.

 

The true meaning of Christmas offers the message about the birth of Jesus Christ who came to earth to die for the sins of mankind.  We pray thousands will join in this celebration and enjoy the beauty and majesty of the Christmas story.  In the spirit of tradition and honoring our eternal Creator, we wish you a very Merry Christmas.

 

RELATED ARTICLE:  Separation of Church + State Myth: Founding Fathers' True View On Religion's Role In Government:  http://rffm.typepad.com/republicans_for_fair_medi/2008/09/the-separation-of-church-and-state-myth-the-founding-fathers-their-true-view-on-religions-role-in-government.html 

 

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Illinois State Comptroller Candidate William J. Kelly Uses Springfield Nativity Scene For Publicity Stunt

by Daniel T. Zanoza, Chairman, Springfield Nativity Scene Committee

& Executive Director, RFFM.org

In 2008, there was a great deal of controversy involving a Nativity scene which stood in the capitol building in the state of Washington.  The heated controversy created by both those supporting and opposing the religious display in Olympia reached such a crescendo, state officials decided to throw all of them out.  The Nativity scene standing in the Washington state capitol, the signs opposing it, a Menorah celebrating Hanukkah, signs opposing the expression of religious liberty and the crowds demonstrating against each other were just too much trouble for state officials.  Subsequently, those who desired to express religious liberty and their opponents were told they could do so, but outside the confines of the Capitol building.  This resulted in the individual who purchased the Nativity scene donating the display to a church and those on the far left ended up winning the battle in Washington state.

On December 1st 2008, the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee (SNSC), received permission from the Secretary of State's office to display a Nativity scene, for the first time in state history, in the state Capitol Rotunda Building.  The opening day ceremony attracted a great deal of media and the religious display attracted those with dissenting opinions regarding the expression of religious liberty in the public square as well.

This year, a standing room only crowd attended the 2nd annual opening day ceremony for the Springfield Nativity Scene.  It was a wonderful event.  The Joyful Senior Singers + Ringers from the Tabernacle Baptist Church in Decatur performed Christmas carols.  State employees, who were on their lunch breaks, watched the event, some singing along with the choir, others were just enjoying the spirit of the Christmas season.

Again, this year, there was a Hanukkah Menorah and a sign from the Illinois ACLU supporting the First Amendment right of the SNSC to display the manger scene depicting Joseph, Mary and the baby Jesus.  And, once again, the Freedom From Religion Foundation, put up a placard disparaging people of faith.

But, unfortunately, William J. Kelly, who is seeking the Republican nomination for state comptroller, decided--on his own--to use the Nativity Scene as a publicity stunt to advance his political campaign.  I spoke with Kelly after learning of his prank and I questioned his motives for attempting to remove the atheist signage from the state Capitol Rotunda.  "The sign is hate speech," said Kelly "and I decided it shouldn't be there."  Now I had never spoken with this man before.  He made no effort to join the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee.  He did not make a donation to the SNSC or to the Chicago-based Thomas More Society who originally underwrote the Nativity Scene display.  And, to my knowledge, he had no contact with the Illinois Family Institute, Business Men In Christ or Isringhausen Imports of Springfield who financially supported this year's Nativity Scene.  Mr. Kelly did not attend the opening day "unveiling" ceremony this year or last.  But he took it upon himself to generate publicity for his own personal political agenda.

I wish I didn't have to write this because the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee members agreed we were not looking for controversy.  Indeed, we are blessed because Illinois is the only state which has a Nativity Scene standing in its state capitol.

In 20 years of working to advance the cause of the pro-family movement, I have learned there are those who genuinely care about the issues they spend so much of their time and money supporting.  Unfortunately, there are also those who are opportunists who jump on the pro-family bandwagon to advance their own agenda.  It is apparent Mr. Kelly represents the latter.  Just imagine if someone walked into the state Capitol Rotunda Building, picked up the Nativity scene and started to walk out of the door with it because they don't agree with the fact it is there.  This is exactly what Kelly did when he tried to remove the atheist group's signage--which I personally believe is repugnant, but they have the same First Amendment right to be there as we do.

In fact, last year, the atheist sign was stolen after hours and the organization played up the incident to their advantage, saying it was a demonstration of Christian intolerance.  Kelly's actions played right into the hands of those who oppose the right of Christians to express their faith in the public square.  Kelly apologized to me for his actions and it is a possibility he acted before he thought.  But one thing's for sure.  He knew he would get publicity and his campaign manager was touting Kelly's actions to the conservative and mainstream media.  I have learned, he even announced on Tuesday this was his intent (to come to the Capitol on Wednesday).  Kelly made the news in central Illinois, in Chicago and the story was even briefly alluded to on the O'Reilly Factor on FOX News.

Last year, after the Joyful Senior Singers + Ringers choir from Decatur performed near the Nativity scene, they acted in a Christlike manner regarding the atheist signage.  They made a circle around the sign, holding hands while they prayed for those whose hearts and minds shut the Lord out of their lives.  I believe this is how Christians should act.  In fact, it is an answer to the question:  What Would Jesus Do?

But Kelly acted selfishly, not thinking about the possible ramifications of his actions beyond his own political agenda.  Of course, the media ran to the Wisconsin-based Freedom From Religion Foundation for comment.  The dominant media did not come to me as Chairman of the SNSC or to any other members of the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee for our reaction to Kelly's political prank.  Did Kelly honestly believe he was going to be allowed to walk out the door of the Capitol Rotunda, carrying away one of the displays on exhibit in the center of the capitol floor?  The fact is, in order to view the atheist sign, one must walk behind the Nativity scene.  The message on the sign is hostile and the co-president of the Wisconsin-based atheist group admits as much.  I personally believe the atheist signage publicly demonstrates intolerance and hatred and people should see it as it stands in juxtaposition to the message of love, forgiveness and hope which the Nativity scene represents.

As a Christian, I accepted Mr. Kelly's apology.  But, at the same time, I question his judgment.  The Nativity scene is NOT about controversy.  It is a celebration of the birth of the Savior of mankind.  It is not a political tool to be used by anyone, no matter how conservative they claim to be.  As Chairman of the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee, my message to the atheist group is clear.  I did not--and do not--support the actions of Kelly.  I would also like to let the Secretary of State's office and the Capitol Police know the SNSC does not support such actions.  In fact, we abhor them.

Merry Christmas, Mr. Kelly.  May God bless you and keep you well.

And thanks to the hundreds of people who helped support the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee in many ways. 

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL from the SPRINGFIELD NATIVITY SCENE COMMITTEE.

Related article:  Choir Performing at Site of Springfield Nativity Scene Wows Overflow Crowd at Capitol, Despite Presence of Offensive Atheist Signage by Dan Gura (SNSC member) posted 12/12/08   http://rffm.typepad.com/republicans_for_fair_medi/2008/12/choir-performing-at-site-of-springfield-nativity-scene-wows-overflow-crowd-at-capitol-despite-presen.html

Photo from 2008

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Snopes.com Info on Best Buy's Christmas Greeting Policy Outdated: Continued Boycott Unfair

by Daniel T. Zanoza, Executive Director

The other day, my wife and I visited a Best Buy store in the Chicagoland area and were pleasantly surprised.  As we were checking out, the young cashier went out of her way to wish us both a very merry Christmas.  My wife and I were taken aback by the young lady's obvious enjoyment in extending her greeting, to the point it was a topic of conversation as we left the store.

Shortly afterward, I received an e-mail sent out by an individual who was supporting a boycott of Best Buy.  The individual was forwarding an e-mail he had received which, unbeknownst to him, referred to outdated information regarding Best Buy's policy related to Christmas greetings issued by employees (or the lack thereof) to their customers.  The e-mail suggested Best Buy was conducting a war on Christmas, as some retailers are, and the writer said the information was true because he confirmed the information by going to Snopes.com.  He even provided the link to the website which supposedly reports on whether issues are factual or not.  The only problem is, none of the people who forwarded these e-mails--which supported the continued boycott of Best Buy--went to Snopes.com and carefully read the information posted on the site at this link: http://www.snopes.com/politics/christmas/bestbuy.asp. 

Subsequently, I went to Snopes.com to see if Best Buy was indeed not allowing employees to wish customers a merry Christmas.  This was factual, but the only problem was the information was clearly outdated.  The Snopes.com data was posted in 2006 and since then Best Buy has obviously changed its policy.  Now, of course, during my visit to the store, there might have been an entire shift of rogue employees who were putting their jobs on the line and ignoring store policy regarding the prohibition on wishing customers a merry Christmas.  But anyone with common sense would perceive Best Buy had changed its policy regarding the issue, but Snopes.com had failed to update the data it provided in 2006 regarding Best Buy's policy. 

Obviously, the e-mail regarding a continued boycott against Best Buy is unfair.  Also, I was taught a lesson because those who administer the Snopes.com website fail to do their job.  Subsequently, the store is being punished without merit.  This story should be a lesson for all when receiving forwards.  Those who pass such information along to their databases have a duty to confirm the information by contacting the actual source and not depending on Snopes.com as the ultimate purveyor of the truth.

In a time of economic depression, there are those who obviously believe Best Buy is continuing a policy which surely has resulted in the store's loss of revenue.  Perhaps at one time, the boycott of Best Buy regarding its policy towards Christmas greetings had merit.  But, sadly, the retailer is a victim of inaccurate and outdated information.

Right at the top of the Snopes.com website, it clearly states, "Collected via e-mail 2006".  Near the bottom of the same page it reads, "Last updated November 2006".  So, I suppose Snopes.com is blameless, but, at the same time, Snopes.com should be blamed for its omission of current information about Best Buy's current Christmas greeting policy. 

RFFM.org wishes everyone a Merry CHRISTMAS and a new year filled with God's blessings. 

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U.S. Senate Passes Health Care Reform In Dark Of Night: Who Did Not Read The Bill? Dick Durbin (D-IL) & Others

How Legislation Will Impact You

Commentary by Daniel T. Zanoza, Executive Director

In 2006 I became totally blind.  I don't need to go into the details involving what led to the loss of my eyesight, but because of my experience, I am familiar with how Medicare and Medicaid work in Illinois.  I also understand how the proposed health care reform bill--which cleared a major hurdle due to a procedural vote taken in the United States Senate on Monday, December 21, 2009 at roughly 1 A.M. Central time--would impact those currently receiving Medicare and Medicaid.

Without going into the minutiae regarding parliamentary rules, the vote taken in the U.S. Senate early Monday morning essentially will mean the bill will be passed in the Senate in its current form sometime later this week.  Senate Republicans--who voted en masse against health care reform--have run out of tactics that would delay the official passage of the legislation.

I qualify for and receive Medicare and Medicaid.  Medicare covers roughly 80% of doctor and hospital bills; Medicaid (which is funded by the state of Illinois) pays the majority of the balance for essential health related expenses.  Rules differ from state to state regarding the Medicaid entitlement, dependent upon one's income, including pensions, retirement funds, personal assets, etc.

Obviously, Medicare is a program that is a safety net for both the rich and poor alike.  Without Medicare, health care costs would decimate the financial standing of most Americans.  But Medicare was primarily designed to assist the elderly, the handicapped and those who qualify for the program under survivor benefits.

As many know, President Barack Obama's health care reform bill would reduce Medicare benefits by $500 billion.  Some say, over a ten-year period, these proposed cuts would come closer to $1 trillion.  To put this in perspective, Medicare's budget for a one year period alone is $500 billion.  Under Obama's proposal, essentially one year of Medicare funding would disappear.  Supporters of health care reform claim the reduction in the program's funding would come from elimination of waste and fraud related to Medicare.  I have personally become aware of the fact there is a great deal of wasteful spending in the system.  I receive monthly reports on what Medicare pays to doctors and hospitals and--more than once--I have seen things like double and triple billing for the same procedure.  But in contrast to Obama's allegations, I have rarely seen doctors prescribe tests that were unnecessary.  The truth is, it would not take a massive reform of America's entire health care system to address these problems.  In one particular circumstance, I had one stress test performed at a highly renowned hospital in Chicago.  The records I received indicated Medicare was billed for the same procedure three times.  I called a hotline meant to address Medicare abuse and/or fraud.  However, my attempt to report this abuse fell on deaf ears.  I even contacted a member of Congress regarding the matter who supposedly claimed abuse of this kind was an issue he was deeply concerned about, but I never heard from this Congressman either.  Subsequently, a procedure--which lasted 15 minutes, involving two technicians and a treadmill--cost taxpayers three times the original bill of $600.  It's no wonder Medicare will soon be bankrupt. 

There are good things about Medicare.  I can choose my own doctor, in most cases, although there are some physicians who will not participate in the program.  If I need to see a specialist regarding a medical problem I am having, the wait time to get an appointment is reasonable, although there are situations where it can take weeks to get an appointment with a specialist.  In general, if the costs from abuse and waste were eliminated from Medicare, it would be an entitlement even fiscal conservatives could live with.

On the other hand, my wife's situation is an example of how Medicare would work under the current reforms proposed by liberal Democrats who control both Houses of Congress and the presidency.  My wife no longer works and she has no health care insurance.  Since I lost all my vision, she is reluctant to leave me alone, for even short periods of time, even though I tell her "I will be okay."  The reaction of a loved one in such a situation is understandable because if the circumstances were reversed, I would react in the same manner, probably to a greater degree.

Under Medicaid guidelines in the state of Illinois, I am caught in a Catch 22.  My wife is not covered under Medicare or Medicaid and we cannot afford health care insurance for her.  Subsequently, my wife must pay for her doctor visits, tests and any medications.  She is enrolled in a program at a clinic which accepts patients with little or no income.  The facility is located in Springfield.  A round trip to the clinic is roughly 80 miles and, most important, the wait time to see a doctor is often six weeks or longer.  This program is not free.  The amount one is charged is dependent upon a family's income.  Therefore, my Social Security benefits are included as income and my wife is charged according to a sliding scale.  If tests, x-rays, etc. are needed, (and they require a referral from the attending physician at the clinic), again, costs are determined on a sliding scale.  Such referrals are dependent upon finding a doctor who is willing to participate in the program.  Many physicians and specialists do not accept such referrals, due to the fact the Medicaid program in Illinois is extremely slow in making payments.  The Medicaid program in Illinois is an unfunded mandate which, in great part, has resulted in multi-billion dollar deficits facing the state.  This scenario is repeated in many other states across the nation.

If health care reform is passed by the United States Congress, it will include at least 30 million individuals, like my wife, who do not have health care insurance.  The proponents of health care reform claim the legislation--which would essentially put one-sixth of the American economy under the government's control--would be deficit neutral.  A simple question that must be asked is: 

How will 15 million, 30 million or 47 million people (depending on what numbers you believe) who are currently without health care insurance receive adequate health care without it costing taxpayers literally, in some cases, an arm and a leg?  When health care reform is passed, no matter which version of the bill it will be, there are some realities that will have a great impact on all Americans--for generations to come.

There will be rationing of health care services for those who qualify for Medicare.  Any one who believes this will not be the case is either naive or grossly ill-informed.  Then, there is the most likely scenario which will result in the government taking further control of our daily lives.  Americans will be told what they can eat or drink.  We will be told we must live what some bureaucrat will determine is a healthy lifestyle.  Though the left claims health care reform is meant to benefit the poor, it will, in actuality, hurt, not help low income families. 

I, as an individual who qualifies for Medicare, expect health care services (under any legislation currently being considered by Congress) to be delivered in a clinic-like form of the type my wife is currently enrolled in.  Now, of course, I don't expect to be sitting in a waiting room alongside my wife, Oprah Winfrey, Michael Jordan or Warren Buffett.  With millions of baby boomers reaching the age of retirement, the current system will collapse under its own weight.  Subsequently, there will be a class of citizens--mostly made up of the wealthy--who will be able to choose their own doctors and receive the care provided to those who qualify for Medicare as it now exists.  Then, there will be a vast majority of the public who will be subjected to a grossly inferior health care delivery system.  Many more doctors will refuse to accept Medicare patients because of the bureaucracy involved.  The fiscal demands related to the supposed inclusion of the uninsured into the health care system will drive many physicians who are specialists out of the system because the government will not pay for procedures unless they are approved by bureaucrats in Washington, D.C. 

Here is an example of how rationing will work.  Recently, a very controversial recommendation made by a board of government "experts" suggested women between the ages of 40 and 49 do not need yearly mammograms.  Though this procedure has saved the lives of countless women by detecting breast cancer in its early stages, government bureaucrats, not doctors, will determine the fate of untold millions.  Such boards will be created to determine what other procedures, i.e., tests, x-rays, surgeries, etc. are necessary.  We must keep in mind one of the primary reasons for the recommendations regarding yearly mammograms for women between 40 and 49 not be performed was supposedly based on the anxiety women face when waiting for the results of their mammograms.  The recommendation of the board was met by condemnation from those on the left and the political right--and rightly so.  However, under health care reform, such ridiculous findings will be commonplace, rather than an anomaly. 

After the Senate passes its version of health care reform, the Senate version of the bill and the legislation already passed by the House of Reps. will undergo the committee process where some sort of compromise must be reached.  The final product will again come before both Houses of Congress for a final vote and if passed, the bill will then be brought to Obama's desk for his signature.  There is still time for health care reform legislation to be defeated.  The vote taken by the Senate in the dark of night, while most Americans were sleeping, was a huge step in the process of ramming health care reform down the throats of the public.

Unbelievably, many Senators who voted for the bill, including Democratic majority leaders like Illinois Senator Dick Durbin, did not even take time to read the bill they voted to pass.

However, the results are not a fait accompli.  Yet there are forces, including the pharmaceutical industry and lobbyists representing many different special interest groups (except for those who wish to make America's health care delivery system better) who will apply extreme pressure that will ensure health care reform becomes a reality.  This is despite the wishes of a vast majority of the American public who can look at the issue objectively.

Many Americans admit there is a need for health care reform.  Many individuals, my wife included, do need some form of medical care, besides visiting an emergency room for a slightly sprained ankle.  A common sense approach to the problem is needed, but common sense rarely is the driving force in Washington, D.C.  If I thought health care reform would benefit anyone, I would be for it.  However, in the real world, the result of this legislation will not improve anyone's health care, including my wife's.  There will come a time when those now on Medicare, especially the elderly, will look back at the "good 'ol days" when the money they paid into the system for their entire lives ensured decent medical care.

Here is a crazy idea.  Perhaps a board consisting of average Americans, including people from all walks of life, could be put together to devise a plan that would not only bring health care costs down, but improve health care for those who need it.  But such a board would need to exclude politicians, lobbyists and the special interest groups they represent.  However, don't expect that to happen any time soon.  Though nearly 60% of Americans oppose the health care bills currently being considered by both Houses of Congress, our elected officials are going forward with their plan any way.  The message is:  We are going to help you whether you want the help or not, no matter the cost or consequences to our country.

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Jim Ryan for Governor: Gun Owners Have Not Forgotten Former Illinois Attorney General’s Attempt To Entrap Law-Abiding Citizens

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following article, written by Daniel Zanoza, was published in the January 2002 edition of Guns Save Life [www.gunssavelife.com/]. The article was an RFM NEWS (now known as RFFM.org) Exclusive. The following details how Jim Ryan, who is currently seeking the Illinois Republican gubernatorial nomination in 2010, attempted to entrap law-abiding citizens who were selling and/or buying firearms over the Internet. In 2001, Ryan was Attorney General for the state of Illinois. Ryan launched a failed--and what many called unlawful--sting operation targeting gun owners and dealers.

Ryan was pursuing what his own legal advisors determined were cases which would not have passed legal muster in a court of law. 

While Ryan was doggedly pursuing his Internet gun sting, AG Ryan reportedly refused to assist the USPIS (U.S. Postal Inspection Services) in an investigation of nearly 1,700 possible cases of the Internet being used for the procurement of child pornography.

Titles below as published in Guns Save Life:

Questions abound: Where are the guns? Where are the arrests? What happened to the money?

A.G. Jim Ryan’s botched gun sting

January 2002

Chicago (RFM NEWS) - RFM NEWS has learned Illinois Attorney General Jim Ryan postponed a press conference that would have announced a major investigation. The press conference, which would have outlined a significant Internet gun buy sting conducted by investigators from the Attorney General’s office, was reportedly scheduled to take place sometime during the Spring of 2001.

According to sources close to the Attorney General’s office who spoke to RFM NEWS on condition of anonymity, the Internet gun buy sting netted as many as 25 automatic and semi-automatic firearms which were sent through the U.S. mail and purchased by investigators from the AG’s office.

Sources tell RFM NEWS the press conference was postponed indefinitely when lawyers for the Attorney General’s office determined up until that point of the program cases made by investigators would not have passed legal muster in a court of law. Reportedly, lawyers for the AG determined that investigators might have entrapped many of those targeted in the sting , thereby making the cases unprosecutable on constitutional grounds.

Upon learning about the legal flaws in the accumulated cases, a source said Ryan went into a tirade, demanding that staff lawyers be briefed by investigators in all future investigations.

RFM NEWS is reporting the sting operation was originally funded by the Attorney General’s office itself. However, the AG eventually received a federal grant for $850,000 with the help of Speaker of the House, Dennis Hastert.

More than one source within the Attorney General’s office has confirmed some of the weapons obtained during the Internet sting may not be accounted for, including the necessary parts to build an automatic machine gun, which was also purchased by AG staff during the covert gun buy.

Dan Curry, press secretary for Attorney General Jim Ryan, confirmed that a press conference announcing the sting had been postponed. “We contemplated conducting a press conference but backed off when we studied the new Illinois Supreme Court rules, which prohibited our office from displaying evidence in the case,” said Curry. Jim Ryan had intended to display the weapons as part of a photo op during the press conference. However, questions remain why the results of the investigation were never released to the public. Jim Ryan’s office would not confirm the status of the gun buy operation and/or how much of the $850,000 has been spent on the sting and any subsequent investigations involving firearms.

Some law enforcement experts question whether the AG’s office should be participating in this type of activity because such investigations usually fall under the jurisdiction of agencies more suited to the task. RFM NEWS has learned officials at the U.S. Postal Service were not pleased when they learned of the Internet gun buy sting because they were not given advance notification about the operation. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s frustration was compounded by the fact firearms were traveling through the U.S. mail without that agency’s knowledge.

In June of 2000, Jim Ryan first publicly announced his office would become more active in such investigations, when the press was informed the AG’s office was pursuing three cases involving the alleged sale of firearms, over the Internet and at gun shows. One such case involved a Michigan man who sold firearms over the Internet without ever seeing the individual to whom he was selling.

“Apparently, the Attorney General’s office was not aware they were unknowingly walking into the middle of an ongoing criminal investigation,” said a source within the AG’s office who preferred to be unnamed. “Our people got involved and basically compromised a good case. Ultimately, the Attorney General’s office pled the matter down, presumably to get out form under an embarrassing situation. The defendant walked away with little more than a slap on the wrist.”

RFM NEWS has learned a high ranking official from the Bureau of ATF (Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms) in Washington, D.C. personally contacted Jim Ryan over this matter, making it clear the AG’s interference in the case was not appreciated by the ATF.

According to reports, there have been circumstances when federal law enforcement has sought cooperation from the Illinois Attorney General’s office without success, further compounding the friction between these agencies. RFM NEWS has learned the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) sought assistance from the Illinois Attorney General in the investigation of nearly 1,700 possible cases of the Internet being used for the procurement of child pornography. The AG reportedly refused to assist the USPIS in a project called Operation Avalanche.

Dan Curry, Jim Ryan’s press secretary would not answer repeated questions from RFM NEWS concerning the status of the Internet gun sting.

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Afghanistan: A U.S. Marine On The Front Line Tells True Story About War On Terror

CORRECTION + APOLOGY

RFFM.org has learned the letter below, purported to be from a U.S. Marine stationed somewhere in Afghanistan, is a hoax.  It was brought to RFFM.org's attention by one of its readers.  Apparently, a version of this letter first surfaced in 2001, but since then it has been slightly altered to give the perception it is current by mentioning President Obama's failure to act swiftly on a call for more troops in the war on terror.  When informed of this, Major John Birch who forwarded RFFM.org the letter said, "My source was the INTELIST which proves even the Intel Community can be fooled.  I was."  RFFM.org's motto is: "In a democratic republic, good governance is dependent upon an informed citizenry."  In this circumstance, RFFM.org failed in its responsibility to properly vet the letter and we apologize to our readers.--Daniel Zanoza, Executive Director, RFFM.org. 

***********

EDITOR'S NOTE:  The following was sent to RFFM.org by Major John Birch, a retired U.S. Army Intelligence officer.  It was written by a U.S. Marine currently serving in Afghanistan.  For obvious reasons, the Marine's name has been redacted.  RFFM.org has not edited the Marine's comments in any way.  It is not politically correct and it contains language not meant for children.  It is an account of life on the front lines from a member of America's military who is telling it "like it is."

Letter From A U.S. Marine On The Front Line!!!

From a Recon Marine in Afghanistan

From the Sand Pit.  It's freezing here.  I'm sitting on hard, cold
dirt between rocks and shrubs at the base of the Hindu Kush Mountain,
along the Dar 'yoi Pomir River, watching a hole that leads to a tunnel
that leads to a cave.  Stake out, my friend, and no pizza delivery for
thousands of miles.

I also glance at the area around my ass every ten to fifteen
seconds to avoid another scorpion sting.  I've actually given up
battling the chiggers and sand fleas, but them scorpions give a jolt
like a cattle prod.  Hurts like a bastard.  The antidote tastes like
transmission fluid, but God bless the Marine Corps for the five vials of
it in my pack.

The one truth the Taliban cannot escape is that, believe it or
not, they are human beings, which means they have to eat food and drink
water.  That requires couriers and that's where an old bounty hunter
like me comes in handy.  I track the couriers, locate the tunnel
entrances and storage facilities, type the info into the handheld, shoot
the coordinates up to the satellite link that tells the air commanders
where to drop the hardware. We bash some heads for a while, then I track
and record the new movement.

It's all about intelligence.  We haven't even brought in the
snipers yet.  These scurrying rats have no idea what they're in for.  We
are but days away from cutting off supply lines and allowing the
eradication to begin.

I dream of bin Laden waking up to find me standing over him with
my boot on his throat as I spit into his face and plunge my
nickel-plated Bowie knife through his frontal lobe.  But you know me,
I'm a romantic.  I've said it before and I'll say it again: This country
blows, man.  It's not even a country.  There are no roads, there's no
infrastructure, there's no government.  This is an inhospitable, rock
pit shit hole ruled by eleventh century warring tribes.  There are no
jobs here like we know jobs.

Afghanistan offers two ways for a man to support his family:
join the opium trade or join the army.  That's it.  Those are your
options.  Oh, I forgot, you can also live in a refugee camp and eat
plum-sweetened, crushed beetle paste and squirt mud like a goose with
stomach flu, if that's your idea of a party.  But the smell alone of
those 'tent cities of the walking dead' is enough to hurl you into the
poppy fields to cheerfully scrape bulbs for eighteen hours a day.

I've been living with these Tajiks and Uzbeks, and Turkmen and
even a couple of Pushtuns, for over a month-and-a-half now, and this
much I can say for sure:  These guys, all of 'em, are Huns...  actual,
living Huns.  They LIVE to fight.  It's what they do.  It's ALL they do.
They have no respect for anything, not for their families, nor for each
other, nor for themselves..  They claw at one another as a way of life.
They play polo with dead calves and force their five-year-old sons into
human cockfights to defend the family honor.  Huns, roaming packs of
savage, heartless beasts who feed on each other's barbarism.  Cavemen
with AK-47's.  Then again, maybe I'm just cranky.

I'm freezing my ass off on this stupid hill because my lap
warmer is running out of juice, and I can't recharge it until the sun
comes up in a few hours.  Oh yeah!  You like to write letters, right?
Do me a favor, Bizarre.  Write a letter to CNN and tell Wolf and
Anderson and that awful, sneering, pompous Aaron Brown to stop calling
the Taliban 'smart.'  They are not smart.  I suggest CNN invest in a
dictionary because the word they are looking for is 'cunning.'  The
Taliban are cunning, like jackals and hyenas and wolverines.  They are
sneaky and ruthless, and when confronted, cowardly.  They are hateful,
malevolent parasites who create nothing and destroy everything else.
Smart..  Pfft.  Yeah, they're real smart.

They've spent their entire lives reading only one book (and not
a very good one, as books go) and consider hygiene and indoor plumbing
to be products of the devil.  They're still figuring out how to work a
Bic lighter.  Talking to a Taliban warrior about improving his quality
of life is like trying to teach an ape how to hold a pen; eventually he
just gets frustrated and sticks you in the eye with it.

OK, enough.  Snuffle will be up soon, so I have to get back to
my hole.  Covering my tracks in the snow takes a lot of practice, but
I'm good at it.

Please, I tell you and my fellow Americans to turn off the TV
sets and move on with your lives.  The story line you are getting from
CNN and other news agencies is utter bullshit and designed not to
deliver truth but rather to keep you glued to the screen through the
commercials.  We've got this one under control.  The worst thing you guys
can do right now is sit around analyzing what we're doing over here,
because you have no idea what we're doing, and really, you don't want to
know.  We are your military, and we are doing what you sent us here to
do.

You wanna help?  Tell Obama to get off his a** and send the
troops we asked for.  Also, Buy Bonds America .

Saucy Jack

Recon Marine in Afghanistan

Semper Fi

"Freedom is not free...but the U.S.  Marine Corps will pay most of your share".

Classification:  UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: NONE

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