My home is in Punta Gorda.  All my family were unhurt and are safe but there are many who were not so lucky.

Thanks again !

Alnilam

A really nasty storm, many need all the help they can get.

Thanks !

Quote :

 Democrates New Religious advisor
« on: Today at 05:11:00pm »    

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In case you wonder what effects a Kerry administration would have on religious aspect of America, take a look at some ideas of what his new religious advisor will be whispering in his ears....



By Julia Duin
THE WASHINGTON TIMES

Taken from here http://www.washingtontimes.com/national/20040803-115713-2261r.htm


The Democratic National Committee's new adviser for religious outreach was one of 32 signatories on a U.S. Supreme Court amicus brief backing an atheist who sought to remove the words "under God" from the Pledge of Allegiance.
    In February, the Rev. Brenda Bartella Peterson was one of almost three dozen Christian and Jewish clergy who — along with the Unitarian Universalist Association — asked the Supreme Court to support Michael Newdow, the California plaintiff trying to change the Pledge's wording.
The Supreme Court restored the words "under God" to the Pledge in June, ruling that Mr. Newdow had no standing or legal right to bring the case.
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This isn't quite correct.  The SCOTUS restored nothing.  Even if the court found in Mr. Newdow's favor, the words "under God" would remain in the PoA.  I think the court found the correct decision BTW.  Look for this issue to be raised again from a parent that does have standing.

God Bless !

Alnilam

Do you have a picture ?  If not, a description ?

Thanks !

Thank you Ollie, that was very interesting.

God Bless !

Alnilam

Hi Ollie,

I'm familiar with the two depictions of Moses.  Please tell me where the 10Cs are on the doors.  Are they really there or is it just the Roman numerals.  They are not on the main (outer) doors but the SCOTUS site does not mention anything on the inner doors.

Thanks !

Alnilam

Looks like I got the date correct   but the decision wrong.    But the decision on standing as opposed to merit seems like taking the easy way out.  

Any comments ?

America will always be in his debt.

Nothing to be sorry for, I'm sure we all understood.

I think we will be hearing a lot more about "under God" this coming Monday, the 50th anniversary of the phrase in the PoA.  I think the Supreme Court will use the opportunity to announce their decision in BOE v Newdow.

Anybody wish to make a prediction ?  I will start - 5 to 3 to affirm.  Anyone else ?

God Bless

Alnilam

"under God" isn't on U.S. currency.  But I know what you mean.

I found additional information from the NY Times :

http://www.nytimes.com/2004/05/06/nyregion/06partners.html?ex=1085716800&en=9475f0818e74d65a&ei=5070

It requires a subscription, but it is free to sign up.  It appears to me to be a married spouse/domestic partner issue and not gay/straight per se.  I am a little confused in that the Post article is from the 23rd, while the Times is dated on the 6th and  indicates the city and the charities already reached a compromise.  The Mayor has promised to veto the bill and I can understand why.  Perhaps there is a member here that lives in the area that could provide some more information.

God Bless !

Alnilam

I agree, "family" is the key word.  AFAIK, the state of New York does not recognize same sex marriage, although I do not know if they would recognize the same from another state.  I don't think the issue has come up yet.

Do any of these charities refuse to hire a candidate on the basis of marital status ?  If they do not (and I think they don't), I don't see providing health benefits as condoning same sex marriage in any way.  If they do, then don't we have a double standard, i.e., you are moral enough to work for us, but not moral enough to get benefits ?

I'm having trouble getting more info on this.  Do you know how the other religious charities are handling this ?

God Bless !

Alnilam

In the past I've learned that the media does not always get the story correct, and puts a certain spin on it.  I've not been able to find the bill itself, but have found several summaries, one of which is here :

http://www.religionandsocialpolicy.org/news/article.cfm?id=1417

It would appear that several charities are effected.  If the wording says "any family member" (or words to that effect), is the city really challenging any religious belief ?  

God Bless !

Alnilam

Are You Being Served ? How could I have forgotten ?  Another classic - great writing and a superb cast that plays well.  I haven't seen the other two mentioned but I remember Keeping Up Appearances well.  Loved Onslow's character.  "Oh NICE !"

Anyone remember Barney Miller or Fawlty Towers ?