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Springfield Nativity Scene Draws Standing Room Only Crowd to Illinois state Capitol Rotunda Building

On December 1st, 2009, a standing room only crowd attended the second annual opening day ceremony for the Springfield, Illinois Nativity Scene.  The display now stands in the center of the state Capitol Rotunda Building and will be on display throughout the Christmas season.

The Springfield Nativity Scene Committee (SNSC), who coordinated the event, would like to express its deepest appreciation to the Chicago-based Thomas More Society who underwrote the Nativity Scene for the second year in a row.

The SNSC would also like to thank the Illinois Family Institute and Isringhausen Imports of Springfield who were co-sponsors of this year's display.

"It was a wonderful experience," said Dan Zanoza, Chairman of the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee.  "It was exciting to see the public turn out in such great numbers, especially on a work day and, hopefully, those who visit the state Capitol Building in the future will take a moment to view the display depicting the birth of Jesus Christ."

The 25 members of the Joyful Senior Singers & Ringers from Decatur’s Tabernacle Baptist Church, directed by David Cooprider, wowed those in attendance with superb renditions of Christmas carols.

Speeches were given by Thomas Brejcha, SNSC's legal counsel and President of the Thomas More Society; Dan Zanoza; and Beth Rogers, an SNSC member and resident of Springfield.  Rogers referenced America's long standing adherence to the Judeo-Christian ethic, as she reviewed quotes from past presidents--including George Washington and Abraham Lincoln--who spoke of the role faith played in America's history. 

The SNSC would also like to thank volunteers, including Carol Griffith of Springfield--who signed during the event for the deaf and hard of hearing; Rev. Nancy Cahalan of the Grantfork United Church of Christ who gave an invocation which began the noon hour program; Jim Hostetter of Lincoln and Jean Cohoon of Eureka.

In addition, the SNSC would like to express its gratitude to fellow Committee member Pastor Dustin Fulton of the Jefferson Street Christian Church of Lincoln for the church's storing the display and to Everett Crowell (also from Jeff St. Christian Church) for transporting and erecting the Nativity Scene--which was designed and constructed by Karl Fritz and his son Timothy Fritz, master craftsman both of Chicago.

Finally, the SNSC would like to thank the Secretary of State's office for logistic support it offers all groups who desire to express free speech in the public square.

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Second Annual Springfield (Illinois) Nativity Scene Display to Stand in State Capitol Rotunda Building: Opening Day Ceremony December 1st 2009 between 12 Noon and 1 P.M.

The Springfield Nativity Scene Committee (SNSC) will again erect a Nativity Scene that will stand in Illinois’ state Capitol Rotunda Building.

Opening day ceremonies regarding the Springfield Nativity Scene (SNS) will take place between 12 Noon and 1 P.M. on December 1^st in the state Capitol Rotunda located at South 2nd Street & East Capitol Avenue in Springfield, Illinois.  The public is invited to attend the event.

The Springfield Nativity Scene--which was originally underwritten by the Chicago-based Thomas More Society--is meant to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.  This year the display is co-sponsored by Isringhausen Imports of Springfield and the Illinois Family Institute (IFI).

The SNSC’s Nativity Scene display is also an exercise of liberties guaranteed by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution.  Previous court rulings have upheld expressions of free speech, including demonstrations of faith, which are legal in the public square, as long as such religious displays are privately-funded.

"The right of private citizens to proclaim their religious faith and faith-based values in the public square was upheld in 1989 when Chief Judge James B. Parsons of the federal district court in Chicago held there could be no discrimination against religious expression on Daley Plaza in Chicago where, ever since, a Nativity Scene has been displayed annually," said Thomas Brejcha, legal counsel for the SNSC and President of the Chicago-based Thomas More Society.  "As political speeches and rallies are commonplace at our State Capitol, free speech rights encompass religious speech on equal terms."

The Joyful Senior Singers & Ringers from Decatur’s Tabernacle Baptist Church will perform during the Noon hour event.  Rev. Nancy Cahalan of the Grantfork United Church of Christ will give the invocation.  Short speeches will be given by Daniel Zanoza, Chairman, SNSC; Thomas Brejcha; David Smith, Executive Director, IFI; and Beth Rogers, a Springfield resident and member of the SNSC.

“This year’s second annual Nativity Scene display is a celebration of Christmas, which is a federal holiday,” said Zanoza.  “In recent years, there has been a clear and blatant attack on our rights to express faith in the public square.  The SNS is not meant to be political in any way.  The Nativity Scene standing in the Illinois state Capitol Building demonstrates religious liberty does not end at the doors of a public building, a school house or anywhere in the public square.”

The Nativity Scene will be on display from Dec. 1st through Christmas.

For more information on the SNS, contact:

Daniel Zanoza: (217) 314-0211

Thomas Brejcha: (312) 782-1680

Or e-mail the SNSC at: [email protected]

Springfield Nativity Scene Committee

Thomas Brejcha, Esq.
Chicago-based Thomas More Society
 
Eunice Conn, Polo
 
Karl Fritz, Chicago 
 
Pastor Dustin Fulton
Jefferson St. Christian Church
Lincoln
 
Daniel Gura, Lake Zurich 
 
State Sen. Chris Lauzen, Aurora
acting as a private citizen

Beth Rogers, Springfield
 
Arlene Sawicki, South Barrington 

David Smith, Illinois Family Institute
 
Julie Zanoza, Lincoln 
 
Daniel T. Zanoza, Chairman

ACLU Again Not Challenging Springfield, Illinois Nativity Scene: Isn't That Special! It Is

Springfield Nativity Scene To Stand In Illinois State Capitol Rotunda Building For Second Year:  ACLU Says It Supports Constitutional Rights To Express Religious Liberty In the Public Square

 

by Daniel T. Zanoza, Executive Director of RFFM.org and Chairman of the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee

 

For the second year a row, a Nativity Scene will stand in the state Capitol Rotunda Building in Springfield, Illinois.  Last Christmas season, the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee (SNSC) made history with the financial and legal assistance of the Chicago-based Thomas More Society (TMS) and the support of private donations. 

 

An article written by Kurt Erickson of the Bloomington Pantagraph http://www.pantagraph.com/news/local/article_6cb5244a-ad00-11de-be5d-001cc4c002e0.html revealed the Illinois American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) had also applied for and was granted a permit which would allow the organization to put up their own display in 2009--which I understand will include a copy of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution--which will stand on a table.  I don't know what the ACLU is celebrating and I am not privy to exactly what the ACLU exhibit will look like because they haven't consulted me regarding the issue.  However, I think it is safe to say the ACLU's display will not be celebrating the Christmas season.

 

Last year, in a statement issued to the media, the Illinois ACLU acknowledged they recognized the Constitutionality of the Nativity Scene display.  I'm sure this decision was made because someone within the organization--which many Americans would agree, at every opportunity, has opposed any expression of faith in the public square--has indeed read the First Amendment. 

 

This is why, if, in fact, reports are accurate regarding the ACLU's planned display of the U.S. Constitution and the Establishment Clause therein, I welcome their exhibit and I hope everyone who visits the Nativity Scene will take a moment to read the document which was penned by our nation's Founding Fathers.  Subsequently, I express my appreciation to the ACLU for its "support" of the Springfield Nativity Scene.  Well, I'm sure the ACLU is not exactly writing out a check to financially assist the SNSC and the Nativity Scene display, but it is nice to know this far left-leaning organization understands the Constitution of the United States of America.  Quite frankly, my first reaction when I heard the Illinois ACLU was going to display the First Amendment during this Christmas season, was,  "I wonder if they ever read it?"  Obviously, someone in the ACLU has, although the public would not know it by the organization's relentless attacks on the expression of religious liberty in the public square.  

 

Here is one thing I am sure of.  If the Springfield Nativity Scene--which will stand in a government building--were unconstitutional--the ACLU would definitely have filed a legal challenge to the display by now.  Tom Brejcha, the President of the Chicago-based Thomas More Society http://www.thomasmoresociety.org/ explains why the ACLU is no longer challenging such religious displays.  "The right of private citizens to proclaim their religious faith and faith-based values in the public square was upheld in 1989 when Chief Judge James B. Parsons of the federal district court in Chicago held there could be no discrimination against religious expression on Daley Plaza in Chicago where, ever since, a Nativity Scene has been displayed annually," said Brejcha.  "As political speeches and rallies are commonplace at our State Capitol, free speech rights encompass religious speech on equal terms."

 

The precedent for the Springfield Nativity Scene was first set in a federal court ruling titled, "Grutzmacher vs. Chicago Public Building Commission" in 1989 which stated such displays were constitutional on government property as long as they are supported by private funds. 

 

Many Americans wonder why the ACLU has been successful in their efforts to discourage individuals and groups who express their rights regarding expressions of faith in public venues.  Quite frankly, the ACLU operates primarily through the use of intimidation.  Most individuals or organizations do not have the funds or access to legal representation in order to fight off lawsuits filed by the ACLU or organizations with similar goals like "Americans United for Separation of Church and State."  In fact, there are also good people and groups who do not understand what the Constitution says about the expression of religious liberty in the public square. 

 

I recently attended a pro-family event and spoke with some wonderful people who erected a Nativity Scene display in a small town located in central Illinois.  The lawyers for that town told the group, in order for them to put up a Nativity Scene on public property, they must also sponsor and pay for displays regarding other faiths.  For example, they were inaccurately told they must also put up a Menorah celebrating Hanukkah; something related to the Islamic faith; and possibly a display representing those who have no faith at all.  Again, this is an inaccurate interpretation of the rights we have as citizens of the United States.  Indeed, to make it clear, I welcome the Menorah--which stood in the Illinois Capitol Building in 2008--and I hope the group responsible for that display again erects another in 2009.  However, my point is there are city officials throughout the country who do not understand the rights which made the Springfield Nativity Scene possible. 

 

Therefore, my thanks goes out to the ACLU for its unintentional support of the Springfield, Illinois Nativity Scene which will be officially celebrated in an event on December 1st, 2009 between 12 Noon and 1 P.M.  The official "unveiling" will take place in the state Capitol Rotunda Building and all members of the public are invited and encouraged to attend. 

 

I would also like to express my deepest appreciation for the fair and balanced coverage the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee received from the dominant media in central Illinois.  I originally hail from the Chicagoland area and, upon moving to central Illinois, I quickly learned the press operates under the true tenets of honest journalism in this area.  This is in stark contrast to how the dominant press operates in major cities across the United States, like Chicago. 

 

This year a Nativity Scene will stand in the Daley Civic Center Plaza as well.  The depiction of Christ's birth has stood in the heart of downtown Chicago since 1989 and is erected each year shortly after Thanksgiving Day.  A virtual army of volunteers help out to erect the life-sized display. 

 

As Americans, we have rights guaranteed to us by the U.S. Constitution.  However, as stated in the Declaration of Independence, these inalienable rights are given to all men from our Creator.  This is what the Springfield Nativity Scene is really all about.  But it has a secondary purpose as well.  The Nativity Scene display is meant to inform the public that our religious liberty does not end at the door to a public building, at the door to a school house or anywhere in America.  Therefore, again, I'd like to express my thanks to the ACLU.  In a strange way, they validate such expressions of religious faith in the public square, though I know it is not their intent.  In truth, the reported display of the First Amendment by the ACLU is not really meant to approve of the Springfield Nativity Scene and similar displays in any way.  The radical organization's efforts are meant to generate funds from those Americans who oppose the rights granted to us all.  Many such individuals or organizations would simply like to have groups like the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee go away.  But we are not going away.  And I hope others across the country will recognize our religious liberties are under attack and the rights we now cherish and celebrate may not exist forever.  Unless we stand up against these forces, our rights to publicly express our faith could become a thing of the past.

 

RELATED ARTICLES: 

 

YouTube video on the 2008 Nativity Scene by David Spencer of the Springfield State Journal-Register:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XCChvKTHS1M

 

Second Annual Springfield (Illinois) Nativity Scene Display to Stand in State Capitol Rotunda Building: Opening Day Ceremony December 1st 2009 between 12 Noon and 1 P.M.

http://rffm.typepad.com/republicans_for_fair_medi/2009/11/second-annual-springfield-illinois-nativity-scene-display-to-stand-in-state-capitol-rotunda-building.html

 

Nativity scene to be back in Capitol this Christmas by Kurt Erickson of the Bloomington Pantagraph:  http://www.pantagraph.com/news/local/article_6cb5244a-ad00-11de-be5d-001cc4c002e0.html

 

Nativity Scene To Again Stand In Illinois State Capitol Rotunda:  http://rffm.typepad.com/republicans_for_fair_medi/2009/10/springfield-nativity-scene-to-again-stand-in-state-capitol-rotunda-building-a-celebration-of-first-a.html  posted Oct. 11, 2009

 

Second item in SPRINGFIELD STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER article by Doug Finke:  

http://www.sj-r.com/opinions/x801093697/Statehouse-Insider-Just-imagine-the-political-ads-in-January posted Nov. 08, 2009

 

Info on how you can help support the Springfield Nativity Scene display in Illinois State Capitol:  http://rffm.typepad.com/republicans_for_fair_medi/2009/11/info-on-how-you-can-help-support-the-springfield-nativity-scene-display-in-illinois-state-capitol.html

 

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Americans For Truth About Homosexuality Fundraiser Huge Success: Gay Protest Fizzles

RFFM.org Staff Writer

An estimated audience of over 100 pro-family leaders gathered in Arlington Heights on Saturday night, October 24th, in support of Americans For Truth About Homosexuality (AFTAH) www.aftah.org.  The evening featured a speech by Peter LaBarbera, Founder and President of AFTAH, and a nationally recognized activist who has toiled on behalf of pro-family issues for more than two decades.

The keynote speaker was J. Matt Barber, AFTAH Board Member: Director of Cultural Affairs, Liberty Counsel; Associate Dean, Liberty University School of Law; and author of "The Right Hook: From the Ring to the Culture War."

Paul B. Madore, Founder and Director, Maine Grassroots Coalition; Jim Finnegan, President, Choose Life Illinois; and Pete Lines who overcame the homosexual lifestyle also addressed those gathered at the Christian Liberty Academy.

LaBarbera told RFFM.org the night was a huge success and he expressed his appreciation to those gathered and to Pastor Calvin Lindstrom, Church of Christian Liberty and Christian Liberty Academy who delivered the invocation.

Jack Roeser, a well-known pro-family philanthropist who attended the banquet, wowed those in attendance when he offered a $10,000 matching grant for AFTAH.

An expected protest by radical homosexual activists took place outside Christian Liberty Academy which included approximately fifteen demonstrators.  The protest was in response to a national call to action from homosexual leaders. 

"I expected to be meet by a huge phalanx of pro-homosexual demonstrators," said Dan Zanoza, RFFM.org's Executive Director and an attendee of the AFTAH fundraiser.  "The pro-homosexual group blocked our access to the crosswalk leading to the banquet hall.  As a blind individual, I was struck by the insensitivity of a group which calls for tolerance and recognition of what they claim are special rights homosexuals should receive under the U.S. Constitution."

"Thankfully, two members of the Arlington Heights Police Department cleared a path for me and those I came with and that was deeply appreciated on my part," continued Zanoza.  "As I attempted to enter the crosswalk leading to the Academy itself, the pro-homosexual group proceeded to loudly chant their message which greatly increased the danger for myself and others, including the elderly, who depend not only on sight and sound to cross a street.  The insensitivity demonstrated by the group was ironic."

David Smith, Executive Director of the Illinois Family Institute accepted an award on behalf of Donald E. Wildmon, Founder and Chairman of the American Family Association (AFA).   

Though the AFTAH banquet was not a political event, two candidates seeking statewide office were present.  Dan Proft, who is running for Governor in the GOP primary and Andy Martin, who is seeking the Republican Party nomination in the U.S. Senate race, joined pro-family supporters at the AFTAH fundraiser.

"I was very impressed with the gathering of people who are concerned about this issue, especially with the words of Mr. Lines, an individual who found his way out of the homosexual lifestyle with God's help," said Arlene Sawicki of South Barrington, a longtime pro-life/pro-family activist.  "Contrary to the sentiments of radical homosexual activists, the entire evening approached the issue of homosexuality and its impact on our culture in a loving, Christlike manner."

A Question and Answer session with Matt Barber and Pete Lines topped off the proceedings.

"I learned a great deal about the negative impact the homosexual lifestyle has upon our culture and individuals who find themselves trapped in this lifestyle," said one of those gathered.  "It is a sad story, but Mr. Lines is proof that there is hope for all who are living their lives contrary to Biblical teachings.  However, it is also a message of hope for those with other addictions because I believe, as one of the speakers noted tonight, homosexuality is a form of sexual addiction that one can overcome."

For information regarding contributions to AFTAH go to:  www.americansfortruth.com/donate/.

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Special Report: Is DCFS Compounding A Tragedy? Agency Tells Mother of Murdered Daughter She May Never See Her Grandchildren Again

Editor's note:  The following article fist appeared on the Illinois Family Institute's web site on Sept. 8, 2009.  http://www.illinoisfamily.org/news/contentview.asp?c=34534

 

By Daniel T. Zanoza -Illinois Family Institute 
 

It was one of those phone calls no parent wants to receive. In fact, it was the beginning of a nightmare for Jean Cohoon. Cohoon's daughter, MeLisa Cleary, 30, a mother of three, was missing. It's a story which, tragically, is repeated all too often in America today. A woman's car is found, her purse and cell phone are left behind, but she is nowhere to be found.

 

During the first three days after MeLisa's disappearance, a frantic search for the young mother took place. Family, friends, neighbors, and good people who simply wanted to help began the search for MeLisa. Flyers were printed up, the media reported on the case and search teams were organized to scour the town of Mackinaw in Tazewell County, Illinois in the desperate hunt for clues to MeLisa's disappearance.

 

But on June 10th of 2008, Jean Cohoon's nightmare became reality. Her daughter's lifeless body was found in a rural area near Hartsburg in Logan County. The central Illinois location was not 20 minutes away from her home. MeLisa had been brutally murdered and disposed of like a piece of trash.

 

Little did Jean Cohoon know that the murder of her oldest daughter was only the beginning of a horrible saga which continues until this very day. Of course, Cohoon had to first deal with the loss of a daughter. One of the most horrific things in life is when a parent has to bury one of their children. But Cohoon was denied this right of passage. MeLisa's husband, Daniel Cleary, had MeLisa's body taken to California where she was cremated, a fact which Cohoon's family was not aware of until after the fact.

 

But Cohoon soon had to face yet another reality which only served to compound the pain her family was going through. Although the murder of MeLisa is still under investigation and no arrests have been made, soon after MeLisa's body was discovered, local police named her husband, Daniel Cleary, a "person of interest" in the case.

 

Suddenly, the question surrounding who would take custody of MeLisa Cleary's children came to the forefront. With the father's status as a "person of interest" in the murder, the Dept. of Children and Family Services (DCFS) took temporary custody of the three children. Initially, DCFS awarded custody to one of MeLisa's sisters. However, after four months, DCFS removed all three siblings from their Aunt's home. DCFS then did something extremely unusual. The surviving children were separated and placed with friends of the family. Ultimately, DCFS assumed custody of all three children before assigning them to Lutheran Social Services (LSS).

 

"My youngest daughter, who was only 22, was not prepared to take on such a responsibility," said Cohoon. "She had young children of her own and it was obvious my murdered daughter's kids were emotionally scarred. They needed the kind of care and attention my daughter simply was not able to provide. Yet their placement should have been with the family and I was perfectly willing and able to take on that responsibility with joy in my heart."

 

Little did Cohoon know that DCFS was heading towards a decision that one day would separate these children from their family--possibly forever.

 

Obviously, the case of MeLisa Cleary and the eventual placement of her children is complicated. However, a decision on who these children should be with seems simple. But government bureaucracies do not always do what's simple-- or what's right. According to family therapists, when at all possible, children who experience such trauma should be returned to their families. Indeed, when possible, DCFS' guidelines state as much.

 

"In most cases, return home, a goal of reunification, is identified based on the permanency goal that is established based on procedures," said Jimmie Whitelow, a DCFS spokesman, in an interview with the Illinois Family Institute (IFI).

 

Though rules and procedures must be a guideline for DCFS, the human equation must be remembered. Since DCFS took custody away from Cohoon's daughter, Cohoon has only seen her grandchildren sporadically. In fact, the last time Cohoon saw the children of her murdered daughter was on April 9th of 2009--five months ago. Though Cohoon desperately wants to adopt her grandchildren, the Dept. of Children and Family Services has refused her request. Cohoon told IFI the state agency has led her to believe she will never see her grandchildren again.

 

"In essence, I was told to forget about my grandchildren by a caseworker," Cohoon told IFI. "Quite frankly, I was afraid DCFS had already made a determination regarding the custody of my grandchildren and there may have been the possibility that my oldest grandchild has already been adopted out to another family."

 

After a request by the Illinois Family Institute to look into whether or not a determination had been made by DCFS regarding the status of Cohoon's grandchildren, a spokesman for State Rep. Keith P. Sommer (106th District) told IFI that DCFS has yet to make a decision on the children's placement. Sommer, who represents Cohoon's District in the Illinois General Assembly, is a member of a committee looking in to Adoption Reform. Earlier this year, Cohoon contacted Sommer's office because DCFS would not answer her questions concerning the status of her grandchildren.

 

Cohoon believes her emotional state after the murder of her daughter has played a significant role which has led DCFS to balk when it comes to granting her custody of the children.

 

"I would say I had a nervous breakdown," Cohoon told IFI. "My daughter had been murdered, her killer was still on the loose and DCFS was telling me I would never see the only blood link to my daughter again."

 

Cohoon told the Illinois Family Institute, during the midst of her emotional trauma, she had left messages with DCFS which may have led to the agency believing Cohoon was emotionally unstable.

 

Most experts say the emotional instability of anyone under such stress is understandable. Cohoon said she has gone through extensive counseling since the death of her daughter, and she is willing to do whatever it takes to be given the opportunity to adopt her grandchildren.

 

"I'd be willing to go through any counseling DCFS wants me to," Cohoon told IFI. "My only concern is the best interest of my daughter's children and I believe their best interest is best served if they are with their family."

 

Cohoon has other advocates which have taken her side in this story.

 

"I feel she is totally credible," said a reporter for a local newspaper. "Anyone could understand how an individual who experienced the loss of a daughter and the possible loss of her grandchildren would feel."

 

The fact is no one can understand what Jean Cohoon and her family have gone through, except those who have experienced such tragedies in their lives. The question which begs to be answered is whether DCFS is compounding a tragedy here.

 

The Illinois Family Institute will report on this story, as developments occur.

Donations can be sent to:
MeLisa Cleary Memorial Fund
Eureka Community Bank
205 S. Main St.
Eureka, Il.  61530

 

All proceeds from this fund will solely be used for the benefit of MeLisa Cleary's children.

 

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Casey Anthony Trial Turning Into Repeat of O.J. Simpson Fiasco By Media: Call It Dream Team 2

by Daniel T. Zanoza, Executive Director

It is a tragic story, but it's one we are growing accustomed to with the devaluation of the lives of children.  Allegedly, sometime around mid-June of 2008, a Florida woman's two year old toddler went missing.  Besides the obvious fact, the only problem was this child's mother failed to tell authorities her child was gone and she didn't know where little Caylee Anthony was.  About a month later, Cindy Anthony, the grandmother of the missing toddler, finally made a police report, stating the child hadn't been seen for over four weeks.

Casey Anthony, the mother of the missing two year old, then laid out a litany of lies to the authorities which led police and volunteers on a wild goose chase of staggering proportions.  The mother was charged with child neglect and lying to the police before it became obvious little Caylee was the victim of foul play.  It was one of those depressing stories that seems to be common place in a society which, in all too many cases, sees children as disposable commodities, actual possessions of parents who sadly do with them what they wish.  This neglect takes on all forms, from simple neglect to what apparently took place in the Caylee Anthony case, the removal of a child who simply got in the way of a parent's pursuit of a certain lifestyle which had little place for a child within it.

Later in the year, the lifeless decayed body of the ultimate innocent was found mere blocks away from the mother's home and what may have been a case of abduction quickly transformed into a nightmarish scenario of murder, greed and self-absorption.

However, some amazing things have transpired since Casey Anthony was charged with the murder of her daughter.  Seemingly, out of the wood work, high-profile attorneys and legal experts joined forces to defend a woman whose guilt seemed obvious.  In addition, the national media reverted back to a way of covering the story which had little to do with the search for justice and seemed more about turning the death of an innocent child into a ratings bonanza meant to fill the 24 hour news cycle.

The coverage of the Casey Anthony trial is eerily reminiscent of something that left a stain on American justice and the profession of journalism nearly 20 years ago.  We were beginning to see a repeat of the O.J. Simpson fiasco which eventually led to the release of someone who was almost certainly responsible for slaughtering two human beings, his ex-wife, Nicole Simpson and her friend, Ron Goldman.  The Simpson trial made a joke of America's judicial system.  Judges and lawyers mugged for camera time during the televised trial.  What I call baseball journalism took the place of legitimate reporting and America was torn asunder along racial lines, all for the sake of ratings.

Evidence offered by the prosecution was often met by ridiculous rebuttal from the defense team, no matter how unlikely or absurd that information was.  It was a kind of tit for tat reporting that had little basis in fact, but thrived on the principles of sensationalism.  Lawyers-- who seemed to be conscience-less--used every under-handed tactic to distract and derail true justice, while the country watched in slack-jawed awe.

Sadly, the Anthony trial seems to be following the same outline.  High-priced lawyers, many of them far beyond the financial means of the Anthony family, lined up like pigs at the trough to defend what appears to be the indefensible.  However, no one seems to be asking the question "why?".  Why are these representatives of the court willing to offer their services pro bono in a case which seems cut and dry to most Americans?  Of course, every one deserves good legal representation, especially in cases of such magnitude.  But why are these lawyers lining up, in this case to represent a woman who apparently has lied at every opportunity and, in many circumstances, seemed more worried about herself than her missing child?  The answer is all too simple.  Dr. Henry Lee, perhaps the world's leading forensic scientist, climbed onboard the Anthony defense bandwagon.  He was quickly joined by Linda Kenney Baden, a defense attorney and wife of one of the most well-noted forensic pathologists (Dr. Michael Baden) in America who can be seen on television nearly every day discussing high-profile cases--from the Menendez brothers' trial to the mystery surrounding the murder of Colorado child beauty queen, JonBenet Ramsey.

There are more lawyers who have joined Dream Team 2, most of whom would charge six-figure salaries to take on a case of this magnitude.  Did the Anthony family suddenly come into a financial windfall?  It seems very unlikely.  In fact, a publicity-seeking bounty hunter put up $50,000 of his own money to produce bail for Casey Anthony before she was charged with the murder.  It was another case of an individual looking to get his time in the spotlight at the expense of Caylee Anthony's death.  The very same can be said about the lawyers representing Anthony.  They have stepped forward for one reason and one reason only--to seek publicity for themselves and their careers.  This is not a wholesome endeavor to seek out justice for someone wrongfully accused of a capital crime.  It is the American justice system up for manipulation by the sleaze merchants of American culture.

Amazingly, while following the case closely, I have never heard a member of the mainstream media ask the question which is on the lips of most Americans.  Who is footing the bill for this woman's defense?  The media doesn't ask this question because these high-priced lawyers serve their purpose to a tee.

The search for justice concerning the death of a little girl who never had a chance to live the smallest fraction of a full life has turned into a media circus.  Rich lawyers see their ability to charge ever-growing rates with each media exposure.  The press itself features these con artists hawking their wares, while having little true interest in the pursuit of justice for Caylee Anthony or for Casey Anthony as well.  Some hoped the O.J. Simpson trial was an anomaly, something Americans would never see again, but that was only a dream.  Truly, American justice is for sale to the highest bidder and the program with the largest viewing audience.  Shame on them for putting us through this again.  Shame on our society for tolerating it.

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Springfield (Illinois) Nativity Scene Chairman: Is Atheist Signage Political Dialogue or Hate Speech?

by Daniel Zanoza *

 

It was literally one of the most fulfilling events of my life.  However, I didn't fully realize it at first.  In late 2007, I thought it was time to get my life back on track after becoming totally blind two and a half years ago.  Sure, there was my writing.  And support of pro-family causes filled up many of my days.  Yet there was something missing.  However, I was soon to learn what it was.

 

A few years ago, it was suggested I lead a project that would eventually result in a Nativity scene standing in the state Capitol Building in Springfield, Illinois.  At first, I saw this as a worthwhile project, but its true meaning escaped me.  Personal tragedies in my life, including the death of my Mother, the tragic suicide of my brother-in-law and the coup de grace, my unexpected blindness after five surgeries, left me emotionally drained.  It would be inaccurate to say I was unhappy because with the unwavering support of a loving wife and friends, life was certainly bearable.  Indeed, I had come to terms with this simple fact...I was a blind man.  I grew to understand God had a special plan for me and He still does.  But these are the times that try men's souls, as a great person once said.

 

So, in 2008 I decided to finally tackle the Nativity scene project and it was one of the most happiest times of my life.  Perhaps the best thing about it was the fact I was working with committed people, individuals who loved God and did not see the project as a work assignment.  They saw the vision of a manger scene standing in the Capitol of one of the most liberal states in the Union as truly something special.  In fact, many came to this realization long before I did.

 

With the assistance of the Chicago-based Thomas More Society http://www.thomasmoresociety.org/ and its President Thomas Brejcha, the dream of a few became a reality for millions of Illinois residents on December 2nd when a beautifully crafted Nativity scene stood in the home of the Illinois General Assembly.  But America, at times, can truly be a strange land.  There are those who are irked when they see something that brings joy to their fellow man.

 

The Springfield Nativity scene was well covered by the mainstream media.  Of course, the faith-based press was totally in support of the project.  However, I was pleasantly surprised to see the fair coverage the Nativity scene received from the dominant secular media.  It was a refreshing thing for someone like myself who has analyzed the press and its coverage of political and social issues for more than 15 years.  It seemed to be a celebration for man-- which was its purpose exactly.  The manger scene in the state Capitol Building of Illinois was a celebration of Jesus Christ's birth.  It was a commemoration of a state and federal holiday in a house of the people made legal by the Constitution and made possible by literally dozens of hard-working individuals.  From our group's research, it was the first time a Nativity scene stood inside the Statehouse of the Land of Lincoln.

 

Oh, but back to those who revel in the chance to spoil the joy of others.  Recently, the state of Washington and its Governor, Christine Gregoire has been in the midst of a huge controversy over a Nativity scene which stands in that state's Capitol building.  A group of atheists felt it was necessary to celebrate the season with a message of their own.  It is a message of hate and intolerance which has turned a joyous event for many into what has become a trademark of American culture.  Atheists found it necessary to apply for--and receive--a permit to post a sign in close proximity to the statues depicting the birth of who, to millions, is the Savior of mankind.

 

Unfortunately, the atheists' purpose was not to acknowledge the virtues of humanism--which they espouse.  Indeed, the message of the non-believers is meant to disparage those who do believe in something greater than themselves.  I guess it was a sort of Christmas present they gave to themselves because they have nothing to celebrate or believe in.

 

Wasn't it wonderful?  This was taking place on the West Coast, far from middle America's sensibilities.  How naive I was.  In an article written by Doug Finke of the Springfield State Journal-Register, http://www.sj-r.com/opinions/x415866731/Statehouse-Insider-Nativity-scene-will-get-some-company I learned a Madison, Wisconsin-based group of atheists is planning a "gift" for the residents of Illinois.  The Dairy State atheists, called the Freedom from Religion Foundation, is using the same inflammatory language as that used in the states of Washington and Wisconsin which reads:

 

“Our message at this season of the winter solstice is may reason prevail.  There are no gods, no devils, no angels, no heaven or hell.  There is only our natural world.  Religion is but myth and superstition that hardens hearts and enslaves minds.”

 

It seems we have heard language referring to people of faith as being bitter before, but I'll save the issue of politics for another day.  The group will almost certainly be granted a permit, allowing them to hang their disparaging sign.  With a Menorah soon to join the Nativity scene in Illinois' state Capitol, the atheists have the luxury of truly sending an anti-Judeo-Christian message.

 

I have heard the argument which states this group and their hate-filled proclamation has a place in the state Capitol.  But there is an old adage which says freedom of speech stops at the point of screaming "fire!" in a crowded theater.  I am not a legal scholar, but the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee's legal counsel, Tom Brejcha of the Chicago-based Thomas More Society, would probably disagree with me, too.  However, I believe the atheist's signage is hate speech meant to antagonize millions of Illinois residents.  But we seem to live in a time when Christians and God-fearing Jews are favorite targets for Hollywood and many in popular culture.

 

I truly wonder if a racist group were to put up a sign spewing hatred towards Blacks or other minorities, if it would be considered appropriate free speech.  Yet, as Christians, it seems we have become accustomed to wearing targets on our collective backs and it shocks few when many pull the trigger of hate when they have us in their sights.  Therefore, I think it is a valid question that is worth pondering by our state officials.  Where is the line to be drawn in the public square when it comes to the disparaging of others under the guise of the First Amendment?

 

Everyone knows the Madison, Wisconsin atheists aren't celebrating the wonders of their humanistic beliefs.  If they were, they would say so in their message and no one would have qualms with them doing so.  And it's obvious someone at the helm of these atheists' groups has a tin political ear.  What is this organization really trying to accomplish?  Does this group think they are generating good will towards their cause?  Their message is certainly not of "Peace on Earth, Good Will Towards Men", is it?  In a way, the atheists may be getting a temporary jolt of satisfaction by knowing some find their message disgusting.  However, that is a hollow victory that will not last long for those sending the message.

 

I have a suggestion for those who visit the Illinois state Capitol and see the Madison, Wisconsin message...these individuals truly need our prayers.  They don't understand that Christ came to save them as well.  Indeed, the Son of God's message was directed more towards the unrighteous than the righteous.  As a simple, God-fearing man, I have pity for those who find enjoyment by trying to put down others.

 

I presume there will always be men and women like these individuals who find joy while antagonizing their brethren. 

 

I have a message for our visitors from Madison, Wisconsin:  Have a blessed, Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year.  How's that for fighting fire with love?  Isn't that what Christmas is all about? 

 

* EDITOR'S NOTE:  Daniel Zanoza is Executive Director of RFFM.org and Chairman of the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee.

 

 

RELATED ARTICLES: 

 

Springfield Nativity Scene Committee members to Discuss Atheist's Planned Signage: Political Dialogue or Hate Speech? on the Laurie Roth Show: http://rffm.typepad.com/republicans_for_fair_medi/2008/12/springfield-nativity-scene-committee-members-to-discuss-atheists-planned-signage-political-dialogue-.html

 

 

How the Mainstream Media Covered the Historic Event:
http://www.illinoisfamily.org/news/contentview.asp?c=34164

Historic Nativity Scene To Be Unveiled In Illinois State Capitol Building in Springfield Tuesday, Dec. 2nd:  http://rffm.typepad.com/republicans_for_fair_medi/2008/11/historic-nativity-scene-to-be-unveiled-in-illinois-state-capitol-building-in-springfield-tuesday-dec.html

 

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Daley Center Plaza--Site of Life-Sized Nativity Scene For Another Christmas Season

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS -- RFFM NEWS

Thanksgiving traditionally marks the beginning of the Christmas season.  However, with the assault on religious liberty gaining momentum in America, it is hard to find symbols in the public square which signify the true meaning of Christmas.

But there are those who are not ashamed to acknowledge their faith and what the season truly represents to many Americans.  On November 24th, a group of Chicagoland residents erected a Nativity Scene in the Richard J. Daley Plaza at Dearborn and Washington Streets in downtown Chicago.  A group of tradesmen who call themselves the "God Squad" volunteered their time, skills and effort to construct a life-sized manger display to celebrate the birth of Christ.

The "God Squad" volunteers consist of Chicago area trade union members and represent the gamut of Christian denominations.  After construction of the display was completed, a procession was held, culminating in the placing of a figure in the crèche representing baby Jesus.

The manger scene had stood inside Chicago's City Hall since the early years of the Richard J. Daley administration.  However, after Daley's death, the Nativity Scene was moved to its current location because critics asserted the manger display crossed the Constitutional boundaries of church and state. 

Although the Nativity scene was moved to the Daley Center Plaza and is supported solely by private donations, it took a court ruling to allow the annual display to remain at its current location.  In 1989, Judge James B. Parsons ruled the manger scene did not violate the establishment clause of the First Amendment, thereby dismissing a lawsuit filed by the American Jewish Congress, the ACLU and Atheists of America.

"Unfortunately, in the past, the Nativity Scene received little attention from the press," said Jim Finnegan who along with Terry Hodges are co-chairmen of the Nativity Scene Committee.  "Previously, the only time we received media publicity was when our baby Jesus statue was stolen.  I think it's important that people can come and see something which represents what Christmas is really all about.  And with the effort of so many wonderful volunteers, this beautiful Nativity Scene is made possible."

After its theft, the baby Jesus statue was eventually recovered from a locker in Chicago's Union Station.

Following the construction of the manger scene last Saturday morning, a brief re-dedication ceremony took place.  A Bell Choir from Mundelein's Santa Maria del Popolo Church performed at the event, which featured a procession of children from throughout Chicagoland.

The Nativity display will stand until December 29th.

To read a complete history of the Nativity Scene in Chicago go to: http://rffm.typepad.com/republicans_for_fair_medi/2007/11/a-christmas-tra.html

Captions for photographs:

Top: Daley Center Nativity Scene;  Middle: God Squad Volunteers;  Bottom: Maeve O'Malley carries Christ Child figurine

Note: Click on photos to enlarge.

Why I No Longer See Dead People At Wrigley Field by Dan Gura

Within hours of the Cubs annual autumn meltdown, something unique and unprecedented occurred at Wrigley Field.  The mocking silence of the billy goat's ghost was replaced by the roar and rumble of cats--bulldozers that is--tearing asunder the sacred turf to install a new drainage system.

An estimated 7,500 tons of dirt will be removed and shipped to "two dumps in DuPage County."  Dump...as in garbage dump?  Intrigued, I spent several hours trying to find out exactly where the dirt is being dumped without success.  Russ Carlton in the Cubs Public Relations office handed me off to Katelyn Thrall, Media Services Coordinator, who wouldn't answer specific questions, such as "Will the dirt be used to cover a sanitary landfill?"  Instead she e-mailed me a "Wrigley Field Renovation Fact Sheet" with a note, "Here is all the information I have at the time."  In my years as a columnist I've learned that anytime an organization big enough to have a Media Services Coordinator won't answer simple, direct questions you should always suspect the worst.  So, I'm betting on garbage dump, where a three to six inch layer of dirt must be applied at the end of each day to keep the smell (methane) down and vermin (rats) from eating organic (rotting food) waste.

That sure doesn't sound like a very glamorous ending for the hallowed mud that Gayle Sayers slugged through to score six touchdowns against the San Francisco 49ers on December 12, 1965.  That game consecrated Wrigley Field's dirt in the heart and soul of every Bears fan.

But it gets worse.  The Chicago Tribune reported that bulldozers savaging the former gridiron unearthed the concrete goal post supports from the south end zone--the very same ones which da Bears used when they beat the New York Giants 14-10 in the 1963 NFL Championship game.  And what was the final disposition of these sacred relics?  Will they be enshrined with reverence in Canton, Ohio at the Pro Football Hall of Fame?   Nope.  "They told me to toss them out," Roger Bossard, who is overseeing the project, said.       

Could the Cubs possibly do anything else to guarantee extending their 100 year curse?

Well, I think they actually found a way to damn the team for all eternity.  What most baseball fans don't realize is there were more than just the lovable losers on the field.  There were the ashes of hundreds, maybe even thousands, of their most loyal fans grinding their way into the fabric of the Cubs uniforms every time a player kicked up a cloud of dust.  Yep, every time Alfonsio Soraino got up and dusted himself off after making a diving catch on the warning track, he was knocking more than mere top soil off his uniform--he was scattering the earthly remains of someone's Uncle Louie and Aunt Mabel to the wind and, if it was blowing just right, into some unfortunate fan's beer.

I'm serious.  For years, the Cubs have permitted families and friends to scatter the ashes of cremated loved ones on the field.  How do I know this for a fact?  When my in-laws were called home to the Lord, their bodies were cremated and their ashes returned to us in simple metal containers. After a suitable mourning period, we were left with the question of what should we do with these last vestiges of their bodies?

Acting on a hunch, I contacted the Cubs and learned that they permitted the scattering of ashes on the outfield warning track.  I was told it was so popular they had to lay down rules.  The ceremony had to be dignified and respectful to both the deceased and the Friendly Confines.  Absolutely no musical accompaniments, other than taps for servicemen, no videotaping, and no alcohol.  And the scattering could only take place on days when the Cubs were on the road.  This seemed like the perfect solution to our dilemma.  Fred and Dot bled Cubby blue.  They watched every game with a fervor unmatched this side of a revival tent.

Thankfully, we opted not to go with the Wrigley Field option, lest they now be residing in a DuPage County dump.

Incredibly, I have not heard a single peep of protest over this desecration of a bona-fide graveyard.  Whilst the media focuses their attention on the Federal Aviation Association's plans to move with respect and dignity the remains of 1,300 now interned at St. Johannes Cemetery--so they can expand O'Hare Field--the final essence of an unknown number of Cubs fans have been callously and capriciously thrown out like mere dirt.  I did some checking and found the weight of cremated remains ranges between 4 to 8 pounds.  Using six pounds as an average and one hundred scatterings a year for two decades that would mean 1,200 pounds of Cub fans remains have been defiled.  Among this truckload of earthly remains are the ashes of legendary first baseman Charlie Grimm (photo) and singer/composer Steve Goodman who wrote the anthem "Go Cubs Go" and, rather appropriately it seems, "A Dying Cubs Fan's Last Request" (poem below).

And what of the Catholics whose ashes were scattered there to await Christ's triumphant return?  The revised funeral rites, Order of Christian Funerals, in use since 1989, specify the cremated remains "should be treated with the same respect we give to the body of the deceased." Somehow being dumped in a DuPage County dump just doesn't seem very dignified.

Next season marks 100 years since the Cubs have won the World Series.  That's a record of failure unmatched by any team, in any sport, anywhere in the world.  Ever.  So whether the Cubs wait until September to collapse, or take back their rightful place as the doormat of the National League on opening day, remember it's neither Bartman nor a billy goat that has cursed them for all eternity, only a lack of respect for their fans--living and dead. 

A Dying Cubs Fan's Last Request

Build a big fire on home plate out of your Louisville Sluggers baseball bats,
And toss my coffin in
Let my ashes blow in a beautiful snow
From the prevailing 30 mile an hour southwest wind
When my last remains go flying over the left-field wall
Will bid the bleacher bums adieu
And I will come to my final resting place, out on Waveland Avenue

Steve Goodman 1983 (awaiting the Rapture in a DuPage County dump)

Correction to: Did O'Reilly force IL Gov's hand in signing Jessica's Law?

RFFM.org Correction: 

In a news article titled "Did O'Reilly force Illinois Governor's hand in signing of Jessica's Law?" (http://rffm.typepad.com/republicans_for_fair_medi/2007/10/rffmorg-news-ex.html) RFFM.org inaccurately reported Jessica's Law would not have become law if Governor Rod Blagojevich had failed to sign the bill before 60 days.  In reality, the Illinois Constitution provides that a bill failed to be signed by a Governor within 60 days after it comes to his desk automatically becomes law if he does not act on said legislation.

The Illinois Constitution states:

ARTICLE IV (THE LEGISLATURE)
 
SECTION 9. VETO PROCEDURE

    (a)  Every bill passed by the General Assembly shall be presented to the Governor within 30 calendar days after its passage. The foregoing requirement shall be judicially enforceable. If the Governor approves the bill, he shall sign it and it shall become law.

    (b)  If the Governor does not approve the bill, he shall veto it by returning it with his objections to the house in which it originated. Any bill not so returned by the Governor within 60 calendar days after it is presented to him shall become law. If recess or adjournment of the General Assembly prevents the return of a bill, the bill and the Governor's objections shall be filed with the Secretary of State within such 60 calendar days. The Secretary of State shall return the bill and objections to the originating house promptly upon the next meeting of the same General Assembly at which the bill can be considered.

    (c)  The house to which a bill is returned shall immediately enter the Governor's objections upon its journal.  If within 15 calendar days after such entry that house by a record vote of three-fifths of the members elected passes the bill, it shall be delivered immediately to the second house.  If within 15 calendar days after such delivery the second house by a record vote of three-fifths of the members elected passes the bill, it shall become law.

    (d)  The Governor may reduce or veto any item of appropriations in a bill presented to him. Portions of a bill not reduced or vetoed shall become law. An item vetoed shall be returned to the house in which it originated and may become law in the same manner as a vetoed bill. An item reduced in amount shall be returned to the house in which it originated and may be restored to its original amount in the same manner as a vetoed bill except that the required record vote shall be a majority of the members elected to each house. If a reduced item is not so restored, it shall become law in the reduced amount.

    (e)  The Governor may return a bill together with specific recommendations for change to the house in which it originated. The bill shall be considered in the same manner as a vetoed bill but the specific recommendations may be accepted by a record vote of a majority of the members elected to each house. Such bill shall be presented again to the Governor and if he certifies that such acceptance conforms to his specific recommendations, the bill shall become law. If he does not so certify, he shall return it as a vetoed bill to the house in which it originated.

RFFM.org stands by the original premise of the story which questions why Governor Blagojevich nearly ran out the clock on Jessica's law and signed the bill just days after inquiries from producers for Bill O'Reilly (The O'Reilly Factor--FOX News).  RFFM.org apologizes for the technical error regarding the edicts within the Illinois State Constitution. -- DTZ