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How and When America Lost Its Way: Corporate America No Longer Represents “We The People” by Lyle J. Rapacki, Ph.D.

Editor's Note:  Lyle J. Rapacki, Ph.D. is a frequent contributor to RFFM.org.  Rapacki is an independent intelligence analyst.  The head of SENTINEL INTELLIGENCE SERVICES, LLC, Rapacki receives and disseminates critical intelligence and policy information from and to law enforcement, intelligence and homeland security officials, and government and community leaders; Rapacki is the author of dozens of white papers, bulletins and briefings, and he is frequently called on to share his expertise with public and private security directors and organizations. 

A History Lesson:  How Elite Replaced Founding Fathers' Grand Vision Of A Republic With Corporate America by Lyle J. Rapacki, Ph.D.

Overview:

Our country is a Corporation just like any other with its own set of accounting and rules and policies invented and then decreed to those not in charge; namely, WE THE PEOPLE.  

A clock is ticking and a vast majority of Americans can hear it, but are not quite sure what will happen when the clock strikes the proverbial midnight.  There is growing anger masking fear; there is disbelief, mixed with a growing sense of loss; there is stunned silence at the lack of response from every branch of government and from those who are to serve as the Representatives of the People.  No longer, it seems to a growing majority of Americans, is the United States Government working for the good of the People; for that matter, even for the good of the Nation! 

We all are acquainted with the shouts from citizens of absolute frustration and anger rising to the point of “demanding” STOP the spending, STOP the laws arresting personal freedoms, policies that fly in the face of common sense and good will, and a government recreating itself into something the citizens of this Nation can’t recognize.  Even the explosive issues surrounding the eligibility of Mr. Obama to serve as president are totally ignored, and those leveling such serious charges are held up to ridicule, threatened by government agents, not permitted in the courts so the issues can be heard, not even granted access to the Congress of the United States as prescribed by the Constitution for the United States of America to address such a weighty and sobering complaint and charge.  

Mentioned below is a startling yet fascinating set of facts and citations depicting the legal description of the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, INC.  The preponderant majority of citizens have no idea the UNITED STATES in reality is incorporated.  So…besides the Constitution for the United States of America signed by the Founders, much of that hallowed document has been substituted and there is a corporation in effect that complicates many areas of our life with no one discussing this.   It is the proverbial 1-ton elephant decaying in the living room.  No one wants to go in there, so the rest of the house is used without ever mentioning that room!  The U.S. Corporation owns the 100-square mile radius known as Washington, D.C.  The U.S. Corporation also has sway over territories of the UNITED STATES.  The states, however, are sovereign and NOT owned by the corporation; hence the 10^th Amendment is a critical legal document of its own, granting such powers and sovereignty not assigned to the Federal Government, to the states.  The Founders were far more brilliant than people give them credit.  The Founders feared a centralized, all intrusive, all powerful, militant, oppressive government.  The Founders promoted and died for, among other hopes and dreams, a government shared and responsive to the will of the people – a government Of the People, For the People, By the People. 

There is a corporation at work in this country that is the country!  It is not responsive to you or me. 

Corporate Description: 

Entity Name:  UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, INC. 

Entity Kind:   CORPORATION 

Entity Type:   NON-PROFIT OR RELIGIOUS 

Residency:      DOMESTIC State: DE 

REGISTERED AGENT INFORMATION: 

Name:             THE COMPANY CORPORATION 

Address:         2711 CENTERVILLE ROAD SUITE  #440 

City:       WILMINGTON       County:       NEW CASTLE 

State:      DE (Delaware)         Postal Code:       19808 

Phone:       (302) 636-5440 

D-U-N-S registered  Number:       03-360-9418 

Company Name:       Government Of The United States 

Mail Address:       6825 16^th St. NW 

                               Washington, D.C.   USA 20306-0003 

County:       District of Columbia 

MSA:       Washington 

Country Phone Code:      1 

Phone:       202-782-2787 

Location Type:       Branch 

Subsidiary Status:       Non Subsidiary 

Plant/Facility Size:       41,700 Sq. Ft. 

Ownership:       Private 

Prescreen Score:       Low Risk 

Global Ultimate Parent:       Government Of The United States

                                                The U. S. Capitol

                                                 Washington, D.C., USA  20515-0001

                                                 202-224-3121 

Global Ultimate Parent:        D-U-N-S registered  Number:    161906193 

HISTORY: 

THE U.S. CORPORATION HAD ITS ROOTS, of (1871) and started with:

Gettysburg Address in 1864, and the Incorporation of the District of Columbia by [(Presidential, martial law)] Legislative Act of February 21, 1871, under the Emergency War Powers Act and the Reconstruction Acts.  Then reorganized June 11, 1878 - - 16 Stat. 419 Chapter 62. 

A “Corporation” with a legislature was established, with all the apparatus of a distinct government created (Incorporated) by (Presidential) Legislative Act, February 21, 1871, Forty-first Congress, Session III, Chapter 62, page 419: 

On June 20, 1874, the President with advice of Senate abolished and replaced the 1871 government with a commission consisting of three persons. 18 Stat. at L. 116, chap. 337.  A subsequent act approved June 11, 1878, (20 Stat. at L. 102, chap. 180) was enacted stating that the District of Columbia should ‘remain and continue a municipal corporation,’ as provided in 2 of the Revised Statutes relating to said District (brought forward from the act of 1871). 

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA v. CAMDEN IRON WORKS  181 U.S. 453 (1901)http://supreme.justia.com/us/181/453/case.html 

METROPOLITAN R CO v. DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA  132 U.S. 231 (1889) http://supreme.justia.com/us/132/1/case.html 

Corporate Officers:

“…But by the Act of June 11, 1878, (20 Stat. chap. 180), a permanent form of government for the District was established.  It provided…and that the commissioners therein provided for should be deemed and taken as officers of such corporation.”

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA v. HENRY E. WOODBURY   136 U.S. 472 (1890)http://www.supremelaw.org/decs/dccases/woodbury.html 

In UNITED STATES CODE, Title 28, Section 3002 Definitions, it states the following:

(15) “United States” means – 

(A)   a Federal corporation; 

The new “United States” includes States such as District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the Virgin Islands and the Northern Mariana Islands.  It does not include the 50 states united. i.e., Title 26 Section 7701 Definitions (a) (9) and (10) 42 U.S.C. 405 (2)(c)(vii) 

All titles of the United States Code (USC) are strictly meant for the United States and none of the 50 states of the Union.  Each of the 50 states has their own constitutions and laws.  See HEPBURN v. ELLZEY, 2 Cranch, 445, 452, and JOHN BARRON v. THE MAYOR AND CITY OF BALTIMORE 32 U.S. 243 (1833).  These last two cases clearly state that the United States is not the 50 states of the Union. 

CONCLUSION:

I intend to follow this briefing with additional materials that will shed light on several matters connected to the battle for the soul of America.  Our country was never intended to become what it is today.  A brave experiment in creating a Republic lasted a short while and was unceremoniously dumped in exchange for a mechanism that benefitted the few, not the many, as envisioned by the Founders.  This insidious mechanism has steadily covered the “shining light on a hill” to the degree America today is in much darkness.  The Founders would be incensed, and I think would not hesitate to once again pledge their lives and their fortunes to restore America to that great experiment of government Of the People, For the People, By the People. 

The frustration many people have experienced petitioning Washington, D.C., attempting to be heard in the halls of the judiciary around the country, as well as the halls of Congress can be traced to the set of rules in play today by a government that has built a strong and corporately legal wall virtually shutting itself off from the People.  The People on the other hand are still functioning as if the original Constitution for the United States of America was in play…and it is not, except when it is brought out by the elites and “used” to further their own cause(s).  Just as quickly, it is wrapped up and stored away.  

The insidious on-going game is not a Republican or a Democrat Party tug-o-war.  Both parties are actively involved with this corporate shuffle.  The need for strict Constitutionalists who demonstrate a healthy respect for the sovereignty of mankind, and this Nation, has never been in greater demand.   Let’s pray we find them, elect them, and then hold them accountable; for the hour is very late and the clock is about to toll midnight. 

Contact LYLE J. RAPACKI, Ph.D.at:  [email protected] 

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University of Illinois Professor Pays Price For Political Incorrectness Regarding "Gays"

Letter to the Editor by Beth Rogers

EDITOR'S NOTE:  Beth Rogers is a frequent contributor to RFFM.org and a pro-family political activist.  Rogers, who hails from Springfield, Illinois, is one of the most influential socially conservative leaders in the state.

Proponents of "gay" rights have said many times what others do in their bedroom doesn't affect anyone else and is no one's business.  The recent circumstances at the University of Illinois prove otherwise as a university professor shared his beliefs on natural moral laws and then was fired for his opinion.

Professor Kenneth Howell's firing is only one example of how others in society are affected by government recognition of the homosexual lifestyle and how laws, such as the recent passing of hate-crimes legislation, affect everyone in society and then become everyone’s business.

Hate-crimes legislation shouldn’t even exist because it grants "special" protections, not constitutional equal protection.  All citizens are already protected under the 14th Amendment as having equal protection under the law.

Professor Howell is allegedly being punished for his religious belief and view that sexuality is between a man and a woman.  The professor, in his e-mail stated, "In other words, sexual acts are only appropriate for people who are complementary, not the same."

This is not hate speech as he was speaking truths related to natural law.  Why would a university punish someone who, by his opinion, is also affirming longstanding Illinois law that declares sexuality in marriage as being between a man and a woman?  If his opinion is aligned with these constitutional laws, then don't punish him for upholding those laws that are also aligned with natural law.

This recent action of the university is an example of individuals and groups being demonized for following a faith and moral tradition that has served civilization well for centuries.  It is not hate to agree with God about sexuality and natural moral law as well as protecting members of our society, which includes homosexuals.

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Catholics Fair Game, But Kinsey's Research Also Abused Children: When Will Time Magazine Be Consistent Regarding Reporting Sexual Abuse Of Minors?

 

EDITOR'S NOTE:  Recently, Time magazine featured a cover story critical of the past sexual abuses of children within the Catholic Church.  The following open letter to the Editor of Time magazine appeals for consistency in their reporting on the sexual abuse of children and asks why the issue of Indiana University's research conducted by Alfred Kinsey has not been addressed. 

 

 

An Open Letter to Time Magazine

 

June 2010

 

Regarding: Priest Sex Abuse Stories

Dear Editor:

Considering your recent stories on priest sex abuse and your "enthusiasm" for protecting minors, when can we expect a story about the pedophiles that Alfred Kinsey used in his "research" on children, and when can we find--on the front cover of your magazine--a demand for an apology from the president of Indiana University?

Since protecting children is your true objective, not attacking Catholics, their church and their Pope, we expect you will lead the charge against Indiana University with the same vigor.  Failure to do so would reveal your hypocrisy.

Sincerely,

Eileen Griffin

Schaumburg, Illinois

 

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Texas Senior Relates Thoughts From The Heartland About America And Its Future

 

by Dodie Smith

 

EDITOR'S NOTE:  Dodie Smith is a frequent contributor to RFFM.org.  Smith, 77, relates some pearls of wisdom from another Texas senior who holds court in a local eatery.  Smith's article may not reflect an intellectual exercise, but the thoughts within contain extraordinary wisdom from a sage who reflects a down-home perspective.  Those on the left might dismiss the opinions of an octogenarian who speaks utilizing words that would fail a spell check.  But, all the same, this man's comments about the state of American society, both past and present, contain a rare and special type of wisdom.

 

I love my country and what it once represented.  Therefore, I love to sit at a family restaurant in Lake Worth, Texas and listen to conversations with people from the age of 55 and up.  Since the metro-plex is mostly Spanish/Spanish mix, I find it interesting that these folks feel the same way I, as a Caucasian, feel about America, where we have been and where we are headed as a nation.  It was no surprise to me that they cherish the traditional values our country was founded on, in contrast to the liberal agenda fostered and perpetuated by the mainstream media which attempts to divide us along racial, ethnic and religious lines.  Like myself, these individuals of Hispanic heritage also ask what is happening to our country?  These Hispanic-Americans consider themselves Americans first and foremost.  But this was not a revelation to me.

 

Like myself, as good Americans, they wonder why our government feels they can make such drastic decisions for us.  How did they come by that power?  It was not always that way...we, the people, were the voice.  But today, it is like our voices have been muted and we are never heard.  The elitists in our government, starve us, in order to feed the lazy and the illegals, refuse us the many perks given outsiders, yet many elected officials live in luxury and have perks we never authorized as their "employers".

One elderly gentleman, about 80-85 years of age, really speaks up at the restaurant and he doesn't mind who hears him.  And it is delightful to hear him get into arguments with Democrats. 

 

Here is some oratory from an individual whose life experience should be a lesson for us all.  His language isn't perfect, but his eloquence comes through just the same.  

 

"About them dad-burn idiots Democrats put into office, especially that Pelosi and Reid.  And what is the name of that idiot that probably wears women's thongs?  Oh, I do believe they call him Barney.  Well, they ought to have to lose every dadgum thing they own, they put the idiots in office.  I tell you young'uns sitting off over there laughing at us older generations and our ideas, half of you have lost your jobs because of the way you voted, thinking you were going to be set up with free, free, free without cost.  Really fun is it, trying to make ends meet from all that thar free stuff you ain't seen yet.  Well, I'm here to say to you, laugh all you want, but when it is over, remember this...we parents and grandparents wanted better for you dad-burn kids, but shore didn't expect to raise stupid, lazy, welfare-riding kids like we did.  I ain't figured out yet what went wrong...but you all sure ain't made of the stuff real Americans were once made of and ya'll never be or know the America we'uns sitting over here knew.  And the sad part, ya'll just too dang ignorant to listen to knowledge or learn the history.  Why half of you don't believe there was a WWII or Holocaust, you'uns think it is a story someone came up with.  You ain't even taught like we'uns were, to know the history of the world from the beginning.  Your world is wrapped around gadgets and crazy technology, and I betcha not one of you realize that it was the two generations before you that gave you them thar things you dwell on today.  We'uns were a generation of intelligence because we larned and larned, and made something of what we were larning.  Ain't figured out yet what you'uns are going to be able to leave the next one to come along...stupidity is all I can think of, if'n ya'll don't start using that thing up in your heads instead of free grabbing."

Let me tell you, this man has everyone's ears.  He is a delightful, good ole American.  He doesn't scream or yell, he just talks in a deep, loud voice you can't overlook, and the older generation are listening, smiling and nodding our heads in agreement while we sit there eating our breakfasts.  I suppose such conversations are taking place all across America...at least I hope so.  But, more important, I hope Americans are listening.

 

RELATED ARTICLE: 
America The Beautiful: Now A Nation Which Stands Divided / What Has Happened To My Country? by Dodie Smith (Posted December 31, 2009)  http://rffm.typepad.com/republicans_for_fair_medi/2009/12/america-the-beautiful-now-a-nation-which-stands-divided.html

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An Insult To Americans: Press 1 For English

An Insult To Americans:  Press 1 For English

 

by Daniel T. Zanoza, Executive Director

EDITOR'S NOTE:  The following column was first written and posted in 2006.  Unfortunately, the facts related below still hold true regarding English-speaking Americans being forced to Press 1 for English when contacting government agencies and many private businesses.

It's happened to me more times than I care to remember...a call to either a public or private institution or a government agency begins with the words, "For English, press one."  To most people, when this occurs it is frustrating to no end.  I thought I heard it all, but the other day, when making a call to the Social Security Administration, I heard the usual prompt about pressing one for English.  However, to my amazement, the recording at the other end of the phone line began spouting out a healthy flow of uninterrupted Spanish.  In fact, I was required to do something or I would have had to take a quick course "en Espanol" to understand what was being said.  Here I was, an English-speaking American citizen, who was being forced to do something extra, in order to receive a message from my own government in English.  I was astounded, yet it seemed par for the course.

I get the same feeling when I call or write elected officials in Congress concerning the problem of illegal immigration.  It seems politicians are not speaking the same language as I am.  Unfortunately, this is not an exception to the rule.

Overwhelmingly, Americans favor policies that would restrict the flow of illegal aliens into the United States over our border with Mexico.  Whether it would take the building of a 2,000 mile long security fence on the border or sending the military to stem the flow of illegals into the United States, Americans want something done -- and soon -- concerning the issue.

But all we are hearing from many legislators is how illegal immigrants need to come out of the shadows and be given citizenship.  The Republican Party is divided on the issue and Democrats, for the most part, see the legalization of 12 million more illegals as a way to increase their voting bloc.  Some Republicans are hesitant to take on the problem because they are beholding to big business.  During the recent so-called immigrant walk-out, companies like Tyson Foods and Purdue Chicken were forced to close their plants because so many of their employees were not going to show up for work that day.  Now you would think the office of Homeland Security would be asking some serious questions of Tyson and Purdue concerning their plant closings.  Are so many illegals working at these companies that business could not be conducted?  It seems these businesses were doing Homeland Security's work for them.  But there were no reports of the INS (Immigration and Naturalization Service) raiding Tyson or Purdue or, for that matter, any of the many companies that closed down on "immigration walk-out day," whether the businesses were big or small.

Yes, I know many illegal immigrants present fake ID's while seeking employment.  Indeed, the Social Security Administration reported $60 billion in fraudulent claims last year alone.  But it should only take one year--at most--to recognize who is using a "real" Social Security number and who isn't.  To suggest this is an insurmountable problem is ridiculous.  American Express does vary well, thank you, while keeping track of who is using their credit cards.  VISA knows exactly how much credit an individual has in their account in real time. To suggest the government couldn't come up with a similar computerized system is beyond belief.  I take that back.  The government probably couldn't come up with a reliable system to track cases of identity fraud when it comes to employers hiring illegals.  The private sector would do a much better job of creating a system that's foolproof--no pun intended.

So, why don't Republicans favor stronger sanctions against those who break our immigration laws?  They receive big bucks from businesses who hire illegals, that’s why.  However, while thinking about the here and now, the majority party may be dooming itself for the future.  It is estimated there are 12 million illegal immigrants currently residing in the United States, 60% of which come from Latin American countries.  If "amnesty" were granted to these 12 million, the true number of those to be put on the fast track to citizenship could be doubled or tripled.  The truth is immediate family members of those who would receive "amnesty" would also become eligible for U.S. citizenship.

If Republicans are fooled into believing this new group will vote their way, I have a bridge someone in the GOP may want to buy.  If 30 to 35 million illegals were suddenly legalized, with their participation in the electoral process, Republicans may never see majority status in Congress for the foreseeable future.  In contrast, Democrats see "legalization" as a political windfall--and well they should.

There are serious concerns whether Republicans can hold on to the majority they have in both Houses after the 2006 election.  By being soft on illegal immigration, the GOP is rushing towards an abyss from which they may never return.  They are alienating their conservative base and this is a formula for disaster.  The trade-off is simple.  Do Republicans want money now or do they want to lose votes later?  In this case, the two are mutually exclusive.  For that matter, all elected officials should be doing the right thing by making sure laws are enforced.

Please press one, if you feel Republicans are not getting the message concerning illegal immigration.

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Obama’s Doublespeak: Plan To Reform No Child Left Behind "Smoke and Mirrors"

by Donna Garner *

 

* Donna Garner is a contributor to RFFM.org.  Garner resides in central Texas and was an educator for 33 years before her recent retirement.   Garner was appointed by President Reagan and re-appointed by President Bush to serve on the National Commission on Migrant Education in the late 1980's through the early 1990's.   Garner was chosen to serve on the English / Language Arts / Reading (ELAR) writing team for Texas when the TEKS education standards were developed for the public schools (1995-97).   

 

Garner was also the lead writer of the Texas Alternative Document (TAD) for ELAR when educators grew concerned about the lack of explicitness, grade-level specificity and measurability in the TEKS.   As a volunteer, Garner worked closely with Texas State Board of Education members and the Texas Education Agency to write new ELAR standards that were adopted in May 2008.   Garner was a writer/researcher for Scott & White Hospital's Worth the Wait abstinence education program.  

 

Almost five years ago, she became the writer/consultant for MyStudyHall.com which is an online tutorial to help students ages 10 through 100 learn English skills.   Garner is currently a researcher and author involving political, social and education issues and she is an advocate for many pro-family, pro-life organizations. 

 

OBAMA PLAN MORE ABOUT INDOCTRINATION THAN EDUCATION

 

Obama just announced his plan to rewrite the provisions of No Child Left Behind (“Obama Calls for Sweeping Overhaul in Education Law” by Sam Dillon, 3.13.10 -- http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/14/education/14child.html?ref=education ). 

 

I expect Obama’s poll numbers may skyrocket over this announcement because who would not want all students to be ready for college or the workforce when they graduate?

 

This “smoke and mirrors” plan is typical Obama rhetoric, and it is somewhat difficult to track because it is so carefully couched in education doublespeak.  Let me see if I can help to clarify.

 

Plain and simple -- Obama intends to change the way an entire generation of children thinks:  

National standards  →  national tests  →  national curriculum → teachers’ salaries tied to students’ test scores  →  teachers teaching to the test each and every day  →  Obama indoctrination of our public school children 

 

Making the Federal Government the “Teacher”

 

Obama’s plan will make the federal government the “teacher” in every public school classroom in 48 states (Texas and Alaska not included).  How can this happen?  It is being perpetrated on our nation through  incremental stages that began almost the first day Obama took office. 

 

To receive the U. S. Department of Education’s Race to the Top (RTTT) federal funds, states have to “play the game”

by committing to national standards, national tests, national curriculum, and a national database.

 

States must institute value-added assessments (VAA).  Students’ subjectively assessed scores (the opposite of objective scoring with right-or-wrong answers) on the national tests and on various subjectively scored projects will be tracked on a national database from the individual student back to the individual teacher. 

 

This federal knife will be held over teachers’ heads to force them to teach exactly what is in the national standards -- multiculturalism, political correctness, diversity, global warming, environmental extremism, homosexuality, social justice, etc. 

 

Teachers will then be evaluated, given merit pay, or fired based upon the subjectively assessed scores of their students. 

 

When Common Core/Race to the Top was initiated, the public was told that the national standards would only apply to Reading and Math.  On 3.10.10, the much-awaited Common Core Standards draft was released.  What the public presumed would be the Reading standards turned out to be entitled “Common Core English Language Arts and Literacy in History/Social Studies & Science.”  The title indicates that Obama and the U. S. Department of Education intend to extend their control over every aspect of the public school curriculum. 

 

If the federal government can change the way our American children think, they can change our nation in one generation.

 

A Possible Example of Subjectively Scored Projects

 

Because of the inherent nature of portfolio assignments, they are graded subjectively based upon the opinion of the scorer.

 

For instance, a student could decide to produce a portfolio on the subject of  “The Discrimination of Gays in the Military.”  He could produce limited documented text but could be scored high if he includes zany, glitzy graphics in which he uses all sorts of techie applications.

 

Another student could do endless hours of research and produce a factual, well-researched, well-documented, and clearly written expository paper on “Destroying Unit Cohesiveness by Gays in the Military.”  This student could be scored low because of the subjectivity of the scoring of portfolio projects.

 

A third student could write a fully illustrated paper with audio and film clips on her experiences as a community

organizer (complete with first-person, emotion-laden victimization examples), and this portfolio project could score higher than a well-organized and well-researched expository paper on the possible illegality of ACORN’s activities.   

 

Obama Caught in Inconvenient Situation of Breaking the Law

 

Obama’s inconvenient problem right now is that he and the U. S. Department of Education are in violation of the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) law.  NCLB strictly forbids the federal government from taking over the control of public schools through national standards, national tests, national curriculum, and a national database.  (Please see provisions posted at the bottom of this commentary.)

 

Obama is trying to change the NCLB laws as fast as he can before the public figures out that he is breaking the provisions set forth in the current law. 

 

 Obama’s Plan in Action

 

Last year, 48 state Governors (except for Texas and Alaska) signed the Common Core standards adoption agreements before the public was told about the national tests.   

U. S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan waited until the state contracts were signed before he made the rest of the plan clear:  

 

·     Up until the last of January (2010), the 48 states who signed the agreements thought they only had to commit to teach 85 % of the Common Core standards.  In February of 2010, they were told by a deputy executive director of the Council of Chief State School Officers that states will not be allowed to pick and choose; they must use the entire national standards document word for word -- 100% of them.

·     National tests will be created based upon the Common Core national standards.  These tests will be subjectively assessed so that social justice themes can be interwoven throughout, and students’ test grades will be dependent upon the value system of the scorers.

·     To get the Race to the Top funds, states will have to be a part of the Common Core national standards.   

·     To get the Race to the Top funds, states will also have to implement an elaborate tracking system [a national database provided by none other than Bill Gates I feel sure] that would link student test and portfolio scores to individual teachers.  

·     This obviously means that teachers (whose merit pay will depend upon how their students do on the national tests and portfolios) will teach their students a national curriculum to get them ready for the national assessments.  

·     The vendors and lobbyists will be only too glad to develop the national curriculum. They will love dealing with The Beltway crowd rather than being required to pass their instructional materials through public hearings with conscientious citizens who check for factual errors.  

·     The reality is that all public school teachers will teach to the national tests and assessments created by the federal government because teachers’ salaries and employment security will depend upon it.   

·     Please read the following 3.2.10 article posted on EducationWeek.org that indicates liberal-left Linda Darling-Hammond and others of her same persuasion will be in charge of developing the national tests:   http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2010/02/23/23assessment.h29.html?tkn=YWSFjb7lP0Ul6RKoCAcO2bcgAdhvfr8s6u2D&cmp=clp-edweek

·     On March 4, 2010, the following states were awarded Race to the Top funding (Phase 1) with Phase 2 to be awarded in the next few months: Colorado, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, and Tennessee

 

Where Is the Media When We Need Them?

 

I and others who have tracked this federal takeover of the public schools by Obama and the U. S. Department of Education are very puzzled? 

 

Why have FoxNews and other major networks not reported on this federal takeover?  They have spent large amounts of time reporting on the federal takeover of healthcare but not on Obama’s plan to indoctrinate our public school students.

 

Where are the tea partiers who are appalled at the intrusiveness of the federal government into every aspect of our lives?  Why are they not leading the efforts to uncover and defeat Obama’s plan to take over the public schools of our country?

 

Won’t you join with me in contacting your friends and neighbors, the tea partiers, the media, and also your elected officials? Our children are our “most important product.” Why would we put them in the hands of Obama and the federal government?

 

“Each one teach one” is the way to mount a grassroots effort to stop this dreadful federalization of our public schools.

 

No Child Left Behind Law  

 

SEC. 9526. GENERAL PROHIBITIONS.

(a) PROHIBITION- None of the funds authorized under this Act shall be used —

(1) to develop or distribute materials, or operate programs or courses of instruction directed at youth, that are designed to promote or encourage sexual activity, whether homosexual or heterosexual;

(2) to distribute or to aid in the distribution by any organization of legally obscene materials to minors on school grounds;

(3) to provide sex education or HIV-prevention education in schools unless that instruction is age appropriate and includes the health benefits of abstinence; or

(4) to operate a program of contraceptive distribution in schools.

(b) LOCAL CONTROL- Nothing in this section shall be construed to —

(1) authorize an officer or employee of the Federal Government to mandate, direct, review, or control a State, local educational agency, or school's instructional content, curriculum, and related activities;

(2) limit the application of the General Education Provisions Act;

(3) require the distribution of scientifically or medically false or inaccurate materials or to prohibit the distribution of scientifically or medically true or accurate materials; or

(4) create any legally enforceable right.

SEC. 9527. PROHIBITIONS ON FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AND USE OF FEDERAL FUNDS.

(a) GENERAL PROHIBITION- Nothing in this Act shall be construed to authorize an officer or employee of the Federal Government to mandate, direct, or control a State, local educational agency, or school's curriculum, program of instruction, or allocation of State or local resources, or mandate a State or any subdivision thereof to spend any funds or incur any costs not paid for under this Act.

(b) PROHIBITION ON ENDORSEMENT OF CURRICULUM- Notwithstanding any other prohibition of Federal law, no funds provided to the Department under this Act may be used by the Department to endorse, approve, or sanction any curriculum designed to be used in an elementary school or secondary school.

(c) PROHIBITION ON REQUIRING FEDERAL APPROVAL OR CERTIFICATION OF STANDARDS-

(1) IN GENERAL- Notwithstanding any other provision of Federal law, no State shall be required to have academic content or student academic achievement standards approved or certified by the Federal Government, in order to receive assistance under this Act.

(2) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION- Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to affect requirements under title I or part A of title VI.

(d) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION ON BUILDING STANDARDS- Nothing in this Act shall be construed to mandate national school building standards for a State, local educational agency, or school.

SEC. 9529. PROHIBITION ON FEDERALLY SPONSORED TESTING.

(a) GENERAL PROHIBITION- Notwithstanding any other provision of Federal law and except as provided in subsection (b), no funds provided under this Act to the Secretary or to the recipient of any award may be used to develop, pilot test, field test, implement, administer, or distribute any federally sponsored national test in reading, mathematics, or any other subject, unless specifically and explicitly authorized by law.

(b) EXCEPTIONS- Subsection (a) shall not apply to international comparative assessments developed under the authority of section 404(a)(6) of the National Education Statistics Act of 1994 and administered to only a representative sample of pupils in the United States and in foreign nations.

SEC. 9530. LIMITATIONS ON NATIONAL TESTING OR CERTIFICATION FOR TEACHERS.

(a) MANDATORY NATIONAL TESTING OR CERTIFICATION OF TEACHERS- Notwithstanding any other provision of this Act or any other provision of law, no funds available to the Department or otherwise available under this Act may be used for any purpose relating to a mandatory nationwide test or certification of teachers or education paraprofessionals, including any planning, development, implementation, or administration of such test or certification.

(b) PROHIBITION ON WITHHOLDING FUNDS- The Secretary is prohibited from withholding funds from any State educational agency or local educational agency if the State educational agency or local educational agency fails to adopt a specific method of teacher or paraprofessional certification.

SEC. 9531. PROHIBITION ON NATIONWIDE DATABASE.

Nothing in this Act (other than section 1308(b)) shall be construed to authorize the development of a nationwide database of personally identifiable information on individuals involved in studies or other collections of data under this Act.

 

 

 

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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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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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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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