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NEWS RELEASE ARCHIVES 2002

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  November 26, 2002

CONTACT:  Diane Gramley  1.814.271.9078

PENNSYLVANIA PRO-FAMILY GROUP EXPRESSES DISAPPOINTMENT IN PASSAGE OF STATE HATE CRIME LAW, CALLS ON GOVERNOR TO VETO

HISTORY OF THE BILL                                             HOW DID YOUR LEGISLATORS VOTE?

  This evening a traditional values, pro-family group expressed disappointment in the passage of H.B. 1493.  "This piece of legislation has many flaws, among other things it is ill-defined and poses probable First Amendment rights violations.  Passage of this bill means the murderer of an adult male homosexual will receive a stiffer penalty than the murderer of a seven-year-old little girl or a grandmother," Diane Gramley, president of the American Family Association of Northwestern PA said.  H.B. 1493 is a bill which increases the offense simply because the victim is homosexual. 

  "Sadly tonight Pennsylvania just passed the most inclusive homosexual special rights bill in the nation.  Passage of this bill will require the thought police to read the minds of the perpetrator of a crime on a homosexual to see if they acted 'with malicious intention,'" said Gramley.  The bill defines 'malicious intention' as "the intention to commit any act. . . . motivated by hatred"!

  The laws already make murder, assault and battery, etc. a crime.  The Pennsylvania State House just gave a very small percentage of Pennsylvania citizens special rights simply because of the sexual activity in which they engage.

Gramley continued, "We commend and thank the 79 members of the House who voted "No" on H.B. 1493.  These representatives took a strong stand in defense of the family and we thank them.  We now call on Governor Schweiker to stand with these representatives and for the families in Pennsylvania and not sign H.B 1493.  The future of the traditional family in Pennsylvania is in his hands and we call on the governor to come to its defense."

  There is no evidence of a hate crimes epidemic in the state.  Homosexual activists' cries that there is an epidemic of hate crimes are unwarranted.  According to the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission from July 1, 2000 to June 30, 2001 there were 382 bias-related incidences, of those 19 were against gays and lesbians.

  http://www.stopbias.org

Earlier this year the 2001 report from The National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs was released.  Out of Pennsylvania's entire population there were 81 incidences of harassment and 12 physical assaults on persons in the gay community.  "The assaults were tragic, but no reason for hate crimes legislation.  In fact, data from law enforcement agencies and homosexual activists themselves indicates the risk of domestic violence at the hands of their own sex partners is a staggering 50,000 percent greater for individuals involved in homosexual behavior than the risk of being attacked by someone allegedly motivated by disapproval of their lifestyle," said Gramley

Homosexual activists David Island and Patrick Letellier -- co-editors of the National Lesbian & Gay Domestic Violence Network Newsletter -- write in their book, Men Who Beat the Men who Love Them, that violence is a primary health problem for individuals involved in homosexual behavior ranking behind only AIDS for males, cancer for females, and drug abuse for both.

Island and Letellier write:  "The probability of violence occurring in a gay couple is mathematically double the probability of that in a heterosexual couple…we believe as many as 650,000 gay men may be victims of domestic violence each year in the United States."  (page 14)

Many gay activists also recognize this problem and see the creation of a special class with special rights, where one person's death is worth more than another person's death and they know it is not right," Gramley said.

Gay author Andrew Sullivan noted in the April 2, 2001 edition of the New Republic the vast difference in media coverage of two murders:  that of homosexual Matthew Shepard, covered in 3,007 stories in the month after the killing, and that of 13-year-old Jesse Dirkhising - raped and killed by a homosexual couple in 1998 - mentioned in only 46 stories in the following month.

"This discrepancy isn't just real," Sullivan wrote.  "It's staggering . . . What we are seeing, I fear, is a logical consequence of the culture that hate-crimes rhetoric promotes.  Some deaths - if they affect a politically protected class - are worth more than other.  Other deaths, that do not fit a politically correct profile, are left to oblivion."  

More recently a columnist on a Canadian gay website questioned with hate crimes laws are necessary.  Eleanor Brown writes:

 "Speech should not be banned. Thought cannot be censored. I know many of us believe it should. “I believe in free speech but....” is one of the gay community’s most common refrains."

"Those who deny that the Bible condemns homosexuality need to learn to read. The inability to accept reality is truly sad, and makes us all look like morons."

"The religious right say we are trying to outlaw the Bible. And they’re right. A legal precedent has already been set. "

http://www.365gay.com/opinion/Eleanor/Eleanor.htm

Adding the phrase 'gender identity" creates other unacceptable scenarios, as even homosexual legislators recognize.  Openly gay congressman Barney Frank has opposed adding the phrase "gender identity" to federal legislation because he knows radical transgenders will demand that men who think they are women be allowed to use the women's restrooms and showers in the work place.  Frank said "There are workplace situations -- communal showers, for example -- when the demands of the transgender community fly in the face of conventional norms and therefore would not pass in any Congress.  I've talked with transgender activists and what they want -- and what we will be forced to defend -- is for people with penises who identify as women to be able to shower with other women.  There are no votes for that.  And if that is the price of this bill, it is wrong."                      http://www.gendernet.org/hrcwatch/subvert.htm#04

"It is disappointing that 118 members of our State House voted against the family tonight and think that giving a small group of people who engage in a lifestyle that can shorten their lives by up to 20 years should have special protection.  AIDS, STDS, cancers, drug and alcohol abuse, eating and mental disorders pervade the homosexual community.  As a compassionate society we should be warning those caught up in the homosexual lifestyle of its dangers, not trying to legitimize it by giving them special protection," Gramley said.

# # #  

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  October 31, 2002

CONTACT:  Diane Gramley 1.814.271.9078

ALLEGED MURDER IS FURTHER PROOF OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AS MAJOR HEALTH RISK OF HOMOSEXUALS, TRADITIONAL VALUES GROUP SAYS

(Harrisburg, PA) -- Recent events in the Philadelphia area further show that domestic violence is a major health risk for homosexuals, a traditional values group said today.  The discovery of a partially decomposed body in the truck of a car in Philadelphia appears to be, according to the New York Daily News, the tragic end to a quarrel involving a lesbian love triangle.

(link from New York Daily News available with subscription only)

http://www.philly.com/mld/inquirer/news/local/states/pennsylvania/cities_neighborhoods
/philadelphia/4391662.htm

"If these alleged circumstances are proven true -- that two in the love triangle pounced on and murdered the third -- this will further substantiate the already overwhelming statistics from law enforcement and homosexual activists that domestic violence is a major health risk to those living in an already dangerous lifestyle.  This is also further proof that we do not need hate crimes legislation in the state, as the vote on such legislation (H.B. 1493) is to be  brought to the floor for a vote next month, but we need to educate the public on the  very real health risk of domestic violence for those in homosexual relationships," Diane Gramley, president of the American Family Association of Northwestern PA said.

Gramley continued, "The truth is that acts of outside aggression against individuals involved in homosexual behavior, while always highly publicized, are rare.  The far  greater threat of violence to individuals involved in homosexual relationships -- a staggering 50,000 percent higher risk, according to research by homosexual activists themselves -- is the epidemic of domestic violence such individuals commit against each other."

So-called "hate crimes" statistics from the Federal Bureau of Investigation reported that in 1999, there were only 1,317 so-called "hate crime" incidents nationwide allegedly motivated by the offender's disapproval of homosexual behavior.

FBI Statistics

The number of incidents of violence committed by individuals involved in such behavior against their own homosexual partners is astronomical by comparison, Gramley said.

Compared to only 1,317 so-called "hate crimes" in 1999, two prominent homosexual activists and researchers in San Francisco write that as many as 650,000 men alone (not counting women) are each year victims of domestic violence at the hands of their own homosexual sex partners.

Homosexual activists David Island and Patrick Letellier -- co-editors of the National Lesbian & Gay Domestic Violence Network Newsletter -- write in their book, Men Who Beat the Men who Love Them, that violence is a primary health problem for individuals involved in homosexual behavior ranking behind only AIDS for males, cancer for females, and drug abuse for both.

Island and Letellier write:  "The probability of violence occurring in a gay couple is mathematically double the probability of that in a heterosexual couple…we believe as many as 650,000 gay men may be victims of domestic violence each year in the United States."  (page 14)

Island and Letellier also estimate "domestic violence may affect and poison as many as 50 percent of gay male couples" (page 12), while "we believe (heterosexual domestic abuse) is closer to 20 percent." (page 50).

Other homosexual activists agree with Gramley's argument.

"The truth of the matter is, however, that you are much more likely to be injured by someone you love than by a gay-basher on the street. In fact, research indicates that between 25-33% of us will experience domestic abuse in our lifetimes," according to the web site of Community United Against Violence, a San Francisco group that describes itself as "the most comprehensive lesbian-gay-bisexual-transgender domestic violence program in the nation."   LINK

"The Pennsylvania House is facing a possible vote on hate crimes legislation next month, we once again call on House Majority Leader John Perzel to not bring H.B. 1493 to a vote. We also challenge gay activists, who are pressuring Representative Perzel to bring this to a vote, to join us in educating the public about the astronomically greater threat of homosexual-on-homosexual violence.  This would be a true signal that they were concerned with the safety of those living in the homosexual lifestyle, not pushing a bill that gives homosexuals special protection under the law" said Gramley.

# # #

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  October 23, 2002

CONTACT:  Diane Gramley  1.814.271.9078

PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL LESBIAN AND GAY FILM FESTIVAL POSES A PUBLIC HEALTH THREAT, PRO-FAMILY GROUP SAYS

(Pittsburgh, PA) -- This week is the International Lesbian and Gay Film Festival  (PILGFF) and today a pro-family organization expressed concern over the very real threat to the public's health and safety.  Throughout the week films with gay and lesbian themes will be shown in various locations throughout the city and there is a planned circuit party on Friday evening.  "Our concern is the very real dangers posed by the circuit party through the dangerous combination of illegal drugs, alcohol and same-sex relations.  We have contacted the Pittsburgh Police about the dangers of circuit parties and urged them to closely monitor the situation to protect the public's health and safety," Diane Gramley, president of the American Family Association of Northwestern PA (AFANWPA) said.  Gramley continued, "Unfortunately, one of the locations listed on the PILGFF schedule is Breed Hall on the Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) campus.  Thus we have also found it necessary to contact members of the Board of Trustees to inform them of our disappointment in the relationship that CMU has established this year with the International Lesbian and Gay Film Festival."

A study entitled "The Circuit Party Men's Health Survey" was published in the June 2001 issue of the American Health Journal.  It stated that circuit parties may lead to an increase in the rate of sexually transmitted diseases.  Researchers also found that:

q      84% of partygoers reported using illegal drugs during circuit party weekends, including Ecstasy, ketamine or "Special " and crystal meth

q      25% of those surveyed admitted engaging in unprotected sexual contact during party weekends

q      making available "safe-sex" materials, eliminating dark places, and hiring bathroom monitors to reduce the occurrences of public sex were recommended by the researchers

Gordon Mansergh, a researcher with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and lead researcher of the study said, "We found extremely high rates of drug use and relatively high rates of risky sexual behavior."

"It is well documented that illegal drug use runs rampant at gay circuit parties.  The citizens of Pittsburgh need to be made aware of this danger.  Many men travel the "circuit" and attend parties around the country thus increasing the already high risk of the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)," said Gramley.

The CDC recently reported that "38 percent of gay men may be infected with incurable sexually transmitted disease that is linked to cancer."

UK Gay.com

The CDC also reports that men who engage in homosexual behavior are 860% more likely to contract a sexually transmitted disease, increasing up to 500% their risk of contracting HIV/AIDS.  Men who have sex with men "have large numbers of anonymous partners, which can result in rapid, extensive transmission of STDs" the CDC warns.  "Control of STDs is a central component of HIV infection prevention in the U.S.; resurgence of bacterial STD threatens national HIV infection prevention efforts."

Gay Health reports that men who have sex with men are 320% more likely than heterosexuals to have unprotected sex without telling their partners they're HIV-positive.

Another CDC report "confirms that young bisexual men are a 'bridge' for HIV transmission to women."

"Examining the scientific evidence, much from researchers who themselves support or engage in homosexual behavior, leaves no doubt that those who are part of the homosexual lifestyle engage in very risky behavior, which not only threatens them, but the general public," said Gramley.  "That is our major concern with Carnegie Mellon University becoming involved.  Students will be introduced to this dangerous lifestyle during Saturday's Youth Program on campus.  The truth needs to be told about the health risks involved in homosexual behavior -- HIV/AIDS, other STDs, psychiatric disorders, domestic violence, eating disorders, lives shortened by up to 20 years -- that is the truth about the lifestyle. This is what the students need to be told on Saturday, not painting a glamorous picture of this deadly lifestyle," Gramley said.

LINK

The Advocate

Oxford International Journal of Epidemiology

# # #

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE-- October 21, 2002
CONTACT:  Diane Gramley  1.814.271.9078
                                   
             Richard Kirkpatrick    1.717.


WHY IS PENN DOT REFUSING TO RELEASE THE LETTER?

(Harrisburg) -- Today a pro-family group once again contacted Penn Dot in an
attempt to obtain a copy of the letter from Americans United for the Separation of
Church and State which was used in Penn Dot's decision to desecrate the traveling memorial to workers who had died in the line of duty.   "Our understanding of the Sunshine Law is that any documentation that is used in the decision making process becomes a matter of public record.  We have contacted Penn Dot numerous times and get the same line: 'Our legal team is working on it.'  How long should this take?"  Diane Gramley, president of the American Family Association of NW PA asked.

Americans United for the Separation of Church and State supposedly stated in
the letter, which Penn Dot received in May, that the crosses which represented each of the killed workers were unconstitutional  Supposedly the letter also listed case law to back them up. "It makes one wonder exactly what the letter says and why Penn Dot is so reluctant to release a copy of the letter," Gramley continued.  "We have been calling since the first part of July, all to no avail.  Why?"

Increasingly there is evidence that an effort is underway to remove all
evidence of our nation's Christian heritage from the public square.  "If Penn Dot gets away with this, what's next -- the crosses at Arlington National Cemetery and other national cemeteries across the country?  Perhaps American United and Penn Dot should read some of our Founding Fathers' writings to see exactly what they meant by the First Amendment and what role they felt God should play in the public arena,  " said Gramley.

Efforts to obtain an itemized list of taxpayer dollars spent on the original
memorial and the changes made have also gone unheeded.

"How should the families of the killed workers whose memorial has been
desecrated feel? How should the Penn Dot crew in Bradford County who designed the original memorial feel to know that their superiors backed down so easily when basically Americans United said 'Boo!'?"  Gramley concluded.  "Penn Dot has had long enough to release the information that we have requested.  We are now demanding that they do so."

# # #

American Family Association of Northwestern PA
http://www.afanwpa.org

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  July 15, 2002


CONTACT:  Diane Gramley 1.814.271.9078
                                              1.814.432.5421

 Pro-Family Group Is Asking "Where is the Tolerance?"

Allentown, PA) -- What is a city to do?  Most, if not all, government
buildings in Allentown are "smoke-free buildings," yet most involved in city
 government here seem to be endorsing a lifestyle that the Oxford
International Journal of Epidemiology says can shorten lives by up to 20
years!

* College-aged men who engage in homosexual behavior are at risk of dying up
to 20 years younger than other men, according to Oxford University's
International Journal of Epidemiology, which reported:  "Life expectancy at
age 20 years for gay and bisexual men is 8 to 20 years less than for all
men.nearly half of gay and bisexual men currently aged 20 years will not
reach their 65th birthday."
http://ije.oupjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/26/3/657?maxtoshow=&HITS=10&
hits=10&RESULTFORMAT=&searchid=QID_NOT_SET&FIRSTINDEX=
&volume=26&firstpage=657&journalcode=intjepid

 Today the American Family Association of Northwestern PA expressed concern
over some of the tactics of homosexual activists in opposition to the
petition
drive to get a referendum placed on the November ballot.

Diane Gramley, president of the pro-family group, said that there is
evidence that mass intimidation is taking place against both the circulators
and the signers of a petition to get a referendum placed on the November
ballot that would give all Allentown voters an opportunity to vote on
repealing the new additions of "sexual orientation" and "gender identity" to
the human relations ordinance.

"Homosexual activists try to portray themselves as being in the forefront
when asking for tolerance and understanding, yet when it comes time for them
to be tolerant and understanding they have a very difficult time doing it,"
Gramley said.  "There are Allentown residents who are trying to exercise
 their First Amendment rights and they are coming under attack. The
residents are opposed to an ordinance which gives homosexuals special
rights.  These would be rights based solely upon the sexual activities these
individuals choose to engage in, nothing else."

Taking a quick look at some of the concerns over the ordinance changes
reveals several problems.  This is not an ordinance with the best interest
of the City of Allentown at heart; it will only benefit a very small, but
vocal percentage of residents.  Ones living in the homosexual lifestyle
portray themselves as being born that way, but thousands upon thousands have
left the lifestyle -- all a witness to the truth that homosexuality is not a
 lifestyle one is born with, but it is a chosen lifestyle.  The term "gender
identity" is so radical that openly homosexual U.S. Representative Barney
Frank opposes such language because he knows that radical transexuals will
demand that men who think they are women be permitted to use women's
 restrooms and showers in public facilities.

 Rep. Frank said: "There are workplace situations -- communal showers, for
example -- when the demands of the transgender community fly in the face of
conventional norms and therefore would not pass in any Congress. I've talked
with transgender activists and what they want -- and what we will be forced
to defend -- is for people with penises who identify as women to be able to
shower with other women. There are no votes for that. And if that is the
price for this bill, it is wrong."

http://www.gendernet.org/hrcwatch/subvert.htm#04

Gramley also said medical studies and other evidence indicates that
individuals
who engage in homosexual behavior experience dramatically higher risks of
domestic violence, mental illness, substance abuse, life-threatening
disease, and premature death by up to 20 years.  She cited the following
documentation:

* "The probability of violence occurring in a gay couple is mathematically
double the probability of that in a heterosexual couple," write the editors
of the National Gay & Lesbian Domestic Violence Network newsletter.
 http://www.afamichigan.org/releases/20010315a.htm

* The Journal of the American Medical Association reports that "people with
same-sex sexual behavior are at greater risk for psychiatric disorders" -
including bipolar, obsessive-compulsive, and anxiety disorders, major
depression, and substance abuse.
http://archpsyc.ama-assn.org/issues/v58n1/abs/yoa9456.html


The Medical Institute of Sexual Health reports: "Homosexual men are at
significantly increased risk of HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, anal cancer, gonorrhea
and gastrointestinal infections as a result of their sexual practices. Women
who have sex with women are at significantly increased risk of bacterial
vaginosis, breast cancer and ovarian cancer than are heterosexual women."
(Executive Summary, "Health Implications Associated with Homosexuality,"
1999, www.medinstitute.org)

* The Institute reports that "significantly higher percentages of homosexual
men and women abuse drugs, alcohol and tobacco than do heterosexuals."


* The Center for Disease Control warns that men who have sex with men "have
large numbers of anonymous partners, which can result in rapid, extensive
transmission of sexually transmitted diseases."
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm4835a1.htm

Gramley maintains that a compassionate society does not encourage such an
unhealthy lifestyle, as most of Allentown's City Council is doing.

As across the nation homosexual activists are pulling the victim card and
saying they are being discriminated against because of their homosexuality.
They accuse, but where are the statistics to back their accusations?  As
across the nation, they have reverted to intimidation because they know if
the truth really gets out and Allentown residents are aware of what the
changes in this ordinance mean to their city, they will be ready to overturn
the ordinance.

The day after the petition was filed on June 12, PA GALA began contacting
signers of the petition. Unfortunately, many elected officials endorsed the
plan and signed onto the letter sent to ones who signed the petition. The
packet included not only the letter , but a form to sign if the signer
wanted their name removed from the petition and a stamped envelope to mail
the signed form.  Through this process PA GALA "convinced" over 600 people
to request their name be removed from the petition and the City Clerk did
it!!  The question arises here:  Does Allentown's Home Rule Charter permit
such an action by the City Clerk or are they changing the "rules of the
game" for fear they may lose in the end?

The concern of the circulators are very real and they should be allowed
their rights to oppose, through the legal process, as they have done, the
ordinance without fear of intimidation.  Circulators and signers of the
petition have expressed fear for the safety of themselves and their
families.  Dictatorships, not democracies, breed fear.  Those who are being
intimidated are living in fear and have not been willing to publicly speak
out.

We are urging the Allentown Police Department to thoroughly investigate the
apparent intimidation of these individuals who are attempting to exercise
their First Amendment rights, but who are living in a spirit of fear.


                                                      # # #

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 3,2002

CONTACT:  Diane Gramley
          1.814.271.9078  (cell)
          1.814.432.5421

PRO-FAMILY GROUP EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER "CLUB" OWNER'S REAL INTENT

What could the intent of a business owner be when he offers half of his
weekly admissions receipts to two local fire companies?  A pro-family group
expresses concern that the intentions may be less than honorable.
Today the American Family Association of Northwestern PA sent a letter to
the Salem Township supervisors outlining concerns over the advertising
campaign of the Climax Gentleman's Club and also commending them for taking
a strong stand in opposition to the club.

This week is Volunteer Fire Department Support Week in the township and this
business which destroys lives is trying to repaint its image in the
community. "No matter how much of the ill-gotten money is handed over to the
Forbes Road and Slickville fire companies the truth cannot be changed. 
These type businesses, whether it be a Climax Gentleman's Club, a Beehive,
or whatever, has harmful effects on the communities where they are located,"
  Diane Gramley, president of the anti-pornography group said.

The testimony of Angela who spent two years in strip clubs in south Memphis,
Tennessee gives a much clearer picture of what goes on in these businesses: 
'Basically we took our clothes off for money, and there's nothing funny
about that.  The guys come in and basically do whatever they want.'  Not
only is there the risk of assault and sexually transmitted diseases, but
many often turn to alcohol and drugs to numb the pain.  'You need it to get
through the night,' Angela admits.

Firefighters, in general, were perturbed that the owner of the Climax, Nicki
Fratangelo, started the ad campaign without consulting them first.  They,
along with the rest of the public, found out about the promotion when it
first appeared in the newspaper.

Would it have made a difference, since he has donated to the fire companies
in the past, only more discreetly?  Apparently Fratangelo came up with the
idea of donating to the fire companies while attending a recent township
meeting when firefighters complained to the supervisors about the thousands
of dollars spent in efforts to fight the Climax and the Beehive.

"Is the owner trying to legitimize his business with this donation? We urge
all area businesses that consider themselves to be family-friendly to make
their own contributions to the fire departments so they will not feel
compelled to accept any money from the Climax Gentleman's Club.  Even as
fire destroys buildings, strip clubs destroy individuals and families."
Gramley said.


Below is the text of the letter:

July 3, 2002

Dear Township Supervisors:

Your battle against the Climax Gentleman's Club is to be commended. The
owner's recent letter requesting a change of operating hours so as to better
compete with The Beehive was not acted upon by the supervisors.  So is he
trying another tactic?  It would appear so.

The advertising campaign proclaiming 50 percent of its admissions receipts
this week, Township VFD Support Week, will benefit township fire companies
seems to be a ploy to repaint the image of the "gentleman's club."  I am
sure you would agree with our assertion the fact that this is a sexually
oriented business (SOB) that harms communities and that cannot be changed no
matter how much money is donated to the township's two fire companies.

The United States Supreme Court recognizes that such businesses create
certain types of adverse secondary effects.  These secondary effects include
unlawful sexual activities, sexually transmitted diseases, a harmful effect
on surrounding businesses, declining property values in surrounding
residential neighborhoods, and a general downgrading of the quality of life
in all areas adjacent to the SOB.  Thank you for taking a stand to protect
Salem Township residents.

The township emergency coordinator, Dave Rosatti, has indicated that because
the Climax is "just another business" in the township they will probably not
turn down the money.  I have to disagree with that statement -- this
business owner does not have the well being of the township at heart and as
stated above, the United States Supreme Court recognizes that.

The owner of the Climax is taking advantage of the financial hardships of
the fire companies to make his business appear "community friendly."  The
money spent by the supervisors to fight the Climax and the Beehive was money
well spent and the community should be grateful they have elected officials
willing to take a tough stand.

Sincerely,

Diane Gramley
President

                                 # # #

American Family Association of Northwestern PA
http://www.afanwpa.org

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  June 26, 2002

CONTACT:  Diane Gramley  1.814.432.5421
                         1.814.271.9078  (cell)
          Holiday Inn    1.814. 456.2961

CONCERNS EXPRESSED ABOUT HOLIDAY INN'S INVOLVEMENT IN ERIE, PA "FIRST EVER GAY/LESBIAN PROM"

(Erie, PA) -- The American Family Association of Northwestern PA (AFANWPA)
is expressing grave concerns about the "First Ever Gay/Lesbian Prom" and the
involvement of the Holiday Inn in Downtown Erie. Today the family values
organization sent an e-mail to the manager of the Holiday Inn on 18th Street
in Erie outlining some of those concerns.

"The Holiday Inn's involvement in the promotion of the Prom-to-Dawn
activities is very disturbing," Diane Gramley, president of AFANWPA, said
today.  "They are encouraging very unhealthy activities through their offer
of a $20.00 room discount with the use of a 'Discount Secret Password.'"

A prom will probably draw underage individuals. What will the Holiday Inn's
response be to underage teens, who consider themselves "Prom-to-Dawn Party
Animals," request to rent rooms?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently discovered the first
documented case of sexually transmitted typhoid fever.  They reported that a
Cincinnati man passed typhoid to seven other men in the city through
homosexual sex last summer.  Officials believe the disease was transmitted
by oral-anal contact, a popular practice among homosexual men.

The Medical Institute for Sexual Health reports that higher percentages of
homosexual men and women abuse drugs, alcohol and tobacco than do
heterosexuals.  Homosexual men are put at high risk of HIV exposure through
their sexual activities with large numbers of sexual partners and having sex
with strangers.

http://www.medinstitute.org/medical/Sept102001.htm

Gay Health reports that men who have sex with men are over 300% more likely
than heterosexuals to have sex without telling their partners they are
HIV-positive.

http://www.gayhealth.com/templates/0/news?record=136

The Holiday Inn has rooms available that are designated "Non-Smoking." Yet,
judging from reports from the New England Journal of Medicine and the Oxford
University's International Journal of Epidemiology, they are encouraging
activity that is up to three times deadlier than smoking.

http://ije.oupjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/26/3/657?maxtosh

"The Holiday Inn's concern should be with the health and well-being of its
patrons, but its involvement with the Prom-to-Dawn activities of the
Gay/Lesbian Prom are jeopardizing those partrons. Holiday Inn must
reconsider its encouragement of these unhealthy activities on the evening of
June 29th,"  said Gramley.


Below is the text of the e-mail:

American Family Association of Northwestern PA
P.O. Box 1048
Franklin, PA   16323

Holiday Inn
Erie, PA   16501

June 26, 2002

Dear Manager:

On June 29, 2002 the "First Ever Gay/Lesbian Prom" will be held at The
Village in Erie, PA.  It is being promoted that room discounts will be
available at the Holiday Inn in downtown Erie for "those Prom-to-Dawn party
animals."  All that is needed is the "Discount Secret Password" and the
caller will receive the $20.00 off discount rate.  We must express grave
concern over this arrangement.

One of the dangers involved in the planned activities of the evening of June
29 include homosexual behavior's "second hand" effects that threaten public
health.  Another, and one directly involved in this situation also, is
underage persons involved in "activities" at your Holiday Inn.  Linda
Elliot, executive director of the Tacoma, Washington-based group, Parent
Party Patrol, says that many hotels don't realize that they can be held
liable if anything happens.   Their annual news release warns that hotel
room parties "serve as a breeding ground for a number of illegal, unhealthy
and potentially fatal activities," from date rape to alcohol poisoning.

The Medical Institute for Sexual Health reports that
"Domestic Violence is . . . probably more common among homosexuals than
among heterosexuals."
"Significantly higher percentages of homosexual men and women abuse drugs,
alcohol and tobacco than do heterosexuals."

Some of homosexual behavior's "second hand" effects that threaten public
health include reports from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention
that men who engage in homosexual behavior are 860% more likely to contract
a sexually transmitted disease, increasing up to 500% their risk of
contracting HIV/AIDS.

Gay Health reports that men who have sex with men are 320% more likely than
heterosexuals to have unprotected sex without telling their partners they're
HIV-positive.

Men who have sex with men "have large numbers of anonymous partners, which
can result in rapid, extensive transmission of STDs."

Reuters reported that while "'gay men of all ages remain at an alarming
risk,' a CDC spokesman told a news conference," another CDC study "confirms
that young bisexual men are a 'bridge' for HIV transmission to women."
We urge you to reconsider your involvement in the "Gay/Lesbian Prom" the
evening of June 29th.  Will there be any corruption of minors involved in
the activities of that evening?  We restate that the Holiday Inn in Downtown
Erie can be held liable if anything happens.  Individuals who engage in
homosexual behavior threaten not only their own lives, but the lives of the
general public --  something to consider in your decision.

Sincerely,

Diane Gramley
President



                                # # #

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  May 31, 2002

Note:  Check out   http://www.eriegaynews.com/calendar.html


Contact:  Diane Gramley -- 1.814.271.9078
          Cedar Point-- General Information 1.419.627.2350


(Erie, PA)-- Homosexual activists are promoting June 16, Father's Day, as
"Gay Day" at Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio.  Today a traditional values
group sent a letter to Cedar Point expressing concern over this promotion.
"Fathers taking their families to Cedar Point on June 16 will be very
disappointed in what they find.  Individuals who engage in a very
destructive lifestyle will be at the park en masse. This is not the type
situation a parent would expect from a seemingly family-friendly park such
as Cedar Point,"  Diane Gramley of the American Family Association of NW PA
said today.

Even though Cedar Point was recently voted "Park of the Year" in the
Coasters' Choice Awards, its image will be tainted through activities like
"Gay Day."  Cedar Point's donation to children's organizations of over $17,
000 through their coin collection program will be undermined, as the true
victims in this whole scenario are the children.  "The negative impact such
an experience as "gay day" can have on a child cannot be understated. Cedar
Point needs to have the welfare of children
as their top priority," said Gramley.

A public health threat will be looming over Cedar Point on June 16, if "Gay
Day" proceeds as planned. Looking at reports from the New England Journal of
Medicine and the Oxford University's International Journal of Epidemiology,
the conclusion is that homosexual activity is up to three times deadlier
than smoking.

http://ije.oupjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/26/3/657?maxtosh


"We are demanding that they (Cedar Point) issue public announcements warning
families with children so that they are fully warned and won't be taken
unaware on June 16. There is a Surgeon General's warning on packs of
cigarettes, can we do no less than to warn children and their families as to
what is going to take place on June 16 at Cedar Point?" Gramley asked.



Below is the text of the letter sent today to Cedar Point:

May 31, 2002

Cedar Point
One Cedar Point Drive
Sandusky, OH    44870-5259

To Whom It May Concern:

It has come to our attention that June 16 is being promoted by area
homosexuals as "Gay Day" at Cedar Point.  According to sources, it is
"unofficial" and "unsponsored," but so are such events at Disney World.
Many families understand they can no longer trust their children to
amusement parks that endorse the homosexual lifestyle.

A public health threat will be present at Cedar Point on June 16.  The New
England Journal of Medicine reports that men who smoke risk cutting 7.3
years off their lives. The Oxford University's International Journal of
Epidemiology reports that the life of a gay man is shortened by up to 20
years. They estimate that nearly half of gay and bisexual men currently aged
20 will not reach their 65th birthday.  Judging by the number of years at
risk, homosexual activity is UP TO THREE TIMES DEADLIER THAN SMOKING!

Other health risks homosexual males are exposed to include HIV/AIDS,
hepatitis, anal cancer, gonorrhea and gastrointestinal infections as a
result of their sexual practices.  Women who have sex with women are at
significantly higher risk of bacterial vaginosis, breast cancer and ovarian
cancer than heterosexual women.  A man involved in homosexual behavior is
500 times more likely to be the victim of violent assaults at the hands of
his own homosexual partner.  Significantly higher percentages of homosexual
men and women abuse drugs and alcohol.

These public health risks will be present at your park on June 16, Father's
Day.  I would hate to think of fathers bringing their wives and children to
Cedar Point for a day of rides and fun, only to discover the park is full of
a group of people who engage in very dangerous sexual practices.  It will be
difficult to explain to their sons and daughters why men and women are
holding hands and kissing members of the same sex.  These would be very
disturbing activities that parents would have to explain - explanations that
parents do not expect to have to make when taking children to Cedar Point.

American Family Association of NW PA DEMANDS that Cedar Point make public
announcements WARNING families with children to beware that the park will be
full of homosexuals on June 16 so they are not caught unaware.  Families
caught unaware will long have very negative memories of their trip to Cedar
Point.

Sincerely,

Diane Gramley
President

# # #

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  May 6, 2002

CONTACT:  Diane Gramley  1.814.432.5421

PRO-FAMILY GROUP EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER POSSIBLE ZONING CHANGE TO PERMIT MOVIE GALLERY

(Franklin) -- Tonight the Franklin City Council considered a possible zoning change at 1007 Liberty Street.  The change would be from residential to Central Business District and is being pushed by the national video chain Movie Gallery.  Diane Gramley, president of the American Family Association of Northwestern Pennsylvania expressed concern during the meeting that the zoning change would permit Movie Gallery, the largest video rental chain in the nation that offers video porn into the city of Franklin.  "This is very typical of Movie Gallery -- to move into a small town which has no type of pornography laws on the books and open those back rooms," Gramley said.

Movie Gallery has more than 1,000 stores nationwide in 32 states and hardcore pornographic videos are rented in almost 300 of those outlets.   The hardcore porn available at these stores includes graphic homosexual activities, orgies, and unnatural male-female sex.  Many employees of Movie Gallery have complained of being subjected to sexual harassment or solicited like prostitutes by customers who rent the hard-core pornographic videos. 

Many times sexual activity takes place in the backrooms and the employees have to clean up the body fluids from the floors and walls.  This puts employees at a great health risk.  But the risk goes beyond the clean up to the video return, as transmitted diseases such as hepatitis B can remain alive outside the body from seven to ten days.  Employees can thus contract that sexually transmitted disease simply by touching or handling the cassette itself. 

"Tonight local developer David Brody said that the Movie Gallery would employ between five and ten people.  Do we want to put those people at risk for sexual harassment or a sexually transmitted disease?  The issue goes beyond a zoning change to the very health and well-being of the community," said Gramley. "Franklin already has two video stores with backrooms which offer hard-core pornographic videos.  These employees are at risk, do we need to increase the health risk by opening another hard-core pornographic video stores?" Gramley asked.

  Movie Gallery Senior Vice-President, Mike Herring, has repeatedly said money was the driving force behind the hard-core pornography.  In November 2000, a 12-state alliance was formed to dismantle the hard-core porn video policy of the nation's third largest video chain.  Groups such as the American Family Association, Christian Coalition and Kids Hurt Too are part of the alliance.

# # #

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 31, 2002
CONTACT: Diane Gramley 1.814.271.9078

News Article

(Erie, PA) -- What would bring Planned Parenthood, The American Library Association (ALA), and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) together for a fight? The removal of protections for children on the Internet! They and others joined forces to successfully have judges in the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court toss out the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA), which would have required schools and libraries that receive federal E-rate dollars to filter harmful, obscene and pornographic material. "It is inconceivable why it is considered so radical to try to protect children from harmful material on the Internet. Why should we knowingly put children in danger, when the technology is there to protect them?" Diane Gramley of the American Family Association of Northwestern PA asked today.

Planned Parenthood joined the fray in the spring of 2001. Why? Their own teen site (http://www.teenwire.com) contains some very objectionable material. Any reliable filter would block Planned Parenthood's site. They want to continue their uninterrupted access to children and teens. The ALA's Library Bill of Rights says, "A person's right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, AGE (emphasis added), background, or views." Judith Krug, longtime director of ALA's "Office of Intellectual Freedom" said, "Blocking material leads to censorship. That goes for pornography and bestiality, too. If you don't like it, don't look at it." She has even said that parents who would tell their children not to read Playboy "don't really care about their kids growing up and learning to think and explore." 

"To have this mindset is beyond comprehension. Numerous studies have shown the great harm done to children who are exposed to pornography. September 2000 Credo magazine cites a 1999 National Public Radio survey of 625 children ages 10-17, 24% of these children said they had seen a pornographic site. Children exposed to pornography when they are still developing attitudes toward sex will get a distorted view of human sexuality. In pornography, human beings have only one purpose," said Gramley.

A study released by the Digital Media Forum in October 2000 found that 92 percent of adults surveyed say they want pornography blocked from school computers. The filters were viewed as protection from a known threat, not as censorship. According to a 2001 Kaiser Family Foundation report seventy percent of 15 to 17 year olds say they have accidentally come across Internet pornography. Roughly 60 percent of teens say online pornography could have a very serious impact on them. They also say that online pornography encourages teens to have sex before they're ready and two-thirds support laws requiring Internet filters at schools and libraries. 

"If the vast majority of Americans support filters on school and library computers, where are these judges coming from? Once again taxpayers are being ask to relinquish their tax dollars to support something they don't want. Now our tax dollars will help pay for Internet access in public schools and libraries that do not filter out objectionable, pornographic or "harmful to minors" material. 
If the law requires motorcyclists to wear a helmet, why isn't there a law in place to protect our children from harmful material and those who would seek to prey upon them on the Internet? We are supposed to be the adults here, I think we'd better start acting like it and protect our kids." Gramley said.

# # # 

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 16, 2002

CONTACT: Diane Gramley 1.814.271.9078

TRADITIONAL VALUES GROUP SAYS TODAY'S ORDINANCE CHANGE WILL HARM CITIZENS OF PHILADELPHIA

(Philadelphia)-- Today the City Council of Philadelphia approved the addition of the words "gender identity" to the City's Fair Practices Ordinance. A traditional values group expressed concern that this will further open the Pandora's Box of legal wranglings against those who oppose this lifestyle. "What will happen when women object to a man who thinks he is a women using their restroom? This is a very real danger and now they have the legal means in place to demand to use the ladies' resrooms or showers in the workplace," Diane Gramley, President of the American Family Association of Northwestern PA said today.

According to the Philadelphia Inquirer this bill will "protect a spectrum of people, including those who have completed a sex-change operation and those who have not BUT WHO SEE THEMSELVES AS BEING OF A 
SEX OTHER THAN THAT OF THEIR BIRTH." 

http://www.philly.com/mld/inquirer/news/local/3228360.htm

Even openly homosexual Representative Barney Frank (D-Mass) opposes the inclusion of the words "gender identity" in legislation. He warns that the so-called "transgender" activists will use such language to literally demand that men who believe they're women be allowed to use women's restrooms and showers. "There are workplace situations -- communal showers, for example -- when the demands of the transgender community fly in the face of conventional norms and therefore would not pass in any Congress. I've talked with transgender activists and what they want -- and what we will be forced to defend -- is for people with penises who identify as women to be able to shower with other women. There are no votes for that."

http://www.gendernet.org/hrcwatch/subvert.htm#04

The admission is there, that this is the transgender activists' real goal and now the Philadelphia City Council has gotten them one step closer. The problem is not discrimination against so-called "transgenders;" the problem is forcing their lifestyle on others.
The purpose is to make their lifestyle appear normal.

Reportedly, one of the groups who advocated passage of this ordinance change has said ten percent of those seeking legal advice from them are transgender. Interesting only a percentage was given, not a number! Just what small portion of the City of Philadelphia will be forcing the rest of the citizens to unblinkingly accept their lifestyle? How many children will go into a restroom and find someone there who is of the opposite sex? How many children will be put in danger because of this ordinance?

We urge Mayor Street to veto the ordinance. If signed, Philadelphia will be the second largest city in the country to approve this type legislation. 

"If this becomes law, what does the future hold for Philadephia? Back in 1982, I'm sure that same question was asked. Twenty years since the ordinance passed adding "sexual orientation" as a protected status, Philadelphia now has the "distinction" of being number 8 of the top ten metropolitan areas reporting highest number of cumulative AIDS cases. What will the year 2022 bring for the City of Brotherly Love because of the passage of this ordinance?" Gramley asked.

http://www.cdc.gov/hiv/stats/topten.htm

# # #

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 13, 2002

CONTACT: Diane Gramley 1.814.271.9078

PHILADELPHIA CITY COUNCIL'S LAW AND GOVERNMENT COMMITTEE OPENS DOOR FOR RADICAL "GENDER IDENTITY" ADDITION TO ORDINANCE

Today the American Family Association of Northwestern PA (AFANWPA),a traditional values organization, sent a fax to each Philadelphia City Council member expressing concern over the proposed change in the City's Fair Practices Ordinance. "We are very concerned that the words "gender identity" will be added to the ordinance. This is so radical that even openly homosexual Representative Barney Frank recognizes the dangers of adding those words to any piece of legislation," Diane Gramley, President of AFANWPA said. 

It appears that transgender activists' true goal is to force acceptance of their lifestyle on the citizens of the City of Philadelphia. According to the Philadelphia Inquirer this bill will "protect a spectrum of people, including those who have completed a sex-change operation and those who have not BUT WHO SEE THEMSELVES AS BEING OF A SEX OTHER THAN THAT OF THEIR BIRTH." 

http://www.philly.com/mld/inquirer/news/local/3228360.htm

"This change in the ordinance creates the potential for men who see themselves as women to demand the use of women's restrooms and women's communal showers in the workplace. It is bad enough that adults will be exposed to this, but parents of working teens do not want their children exposed to those dangers. This is something the City Council must take into consideration before the vote on Thursday." stated Gramley.

Below is the text of the fax sent to each Philadelphia City Council member:

City Council Members,

It was with great alarm that I read Council is considering legislation which would expand the City's Fair Practices Ordinance to include "gender identity." In 1982 the City chose to give special rights to persons based on their lifestyle choice -- homosexuality. Now the
City of Brotherly Love is poised to join the small number of other municipalities which have included "gender identity" as a protected status. 

This wording is so radical that openly homosexual Representative Barney Frank, D. Mass, opposes it. He is arguably the leading advocate of the homosexual agenda in the U.S. Congress, yet he specifically warns that so-called "transgender" activists will use such language to literally demand that men who believe they're women be allowed to use women's restrooms and showers. "There are workplace situations -- communal showers, for example -- when the demands of the
transgender community fly in the face of conventional norms and therefore would not pass in any Congress. I've talked with transgender activists and what they want -- and what we will be forced to defend -- is for people with penises who identify as women to be able to shower with other women. There are no votes for that." 
http://www.gendernet.org/hrcwatch/subvert.htm#04

I would urge you to consider the full ramifications of this measure on the safety of the citizens, especially the children, of Philadelphia and vote "NO" on Thursday. Any discrimination is wrong, but giving special rights because of a lifestyle choice is also wrong.

Diane Gramley

# # #

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 7, 2002

CONTACT: Diane Gramley 1.814.271.9078

TRADITIONAL VALUES GROUP QUESTIONS “HATE CRIMES” REPORT

(Harrisburg) -- The 2001 report from the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs on violence against lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgenders (LGBT) was released recently. For the first time the report included statistics for Pennsylvania. Interestingly,
these figures were collected by the Philadelphia-based Center for Lesbian and Gay Civil Rights. Today a traditional values and anti-violence group expressed concern over the report. 

The report states that there were 81 incidents of anti-LGBT harassment and twelve of those incidents involved physical assault. “According to the 2000 census, Pennsylvania has a population of over 12,281,000 and out of the entire population there were 81 incidents of harassment. We do not endorse violence against anyone, including homosexuals, but we do not consider 12 physical assaults out of the entire population of
Pennsylvania an epidemic, Diane Gramley of the American Family Association of Northwestern PA (AFANWPA) said today.

Do 81 cases of harassment statewide, warrant passage of hate crimes laws as the Center for Gay and Lesbian Civil Rights, Anti-Violence Project Attorney, Lee Carpenter says? Would hate crimes laws solve a perceived problem or create a greater problem? The June 10, 2001 New York Times article entitled, “Men Are Claiming Harassment by Men”
states, “More and more men are coming forward to file sexual harassment charges about behavior that employers ONCE DISMISSED AS SIMPLY HORESPLAY OR LOCKER-ROOM ANTICS.” Harassment appears to be in the eyes of the beholder!

http://www.nytimes.com/2001/06/10/business/10SAME.html?pagewanted=print

“Are we asking the thought police to come in and determine the thoughts of the person committing the crime? Hate crimes laws don’t have anything to do with stopping crime. Murder and aggravated assault are already illegal. Authorities are investigating reported
crimes based on prejudice toward homosexuals or racial minorities. What is the purpose of hate crimes, except to outlaw any opinion deemed politically incorrect and to give one group of people more protection under the law than another. Under hate crimes laws the murderer of a gay male would be more severely punished, than the murderer of a seven
year old girl,” Gramley said.

Gay author, Andrew Sullivan, in the April 2, 2001 edition of the New Republic recognized a serious problem with labeling “hate crimes.” He noted the vast difference in media coverage of two murders: that of homosexual Matthew Shepard, covered in 3,007 stories in the month after the killing, and that of 13-year-old Jesse Dirkhising, who was raped and
killed by a homosexual couple in 1998 -- mentioned in only 46 stories in the following month. 

“This discrepancy isn’t just real,” Sullivan wrote. “It’s staggering . . . . What we are seeing, I fear, is a logical consequence of the culture that hate-crimes rhetoric promotes. Some deaths--if they affect a politically protected class--are worth more than others. Other deaths, that do not fit a politically correct profile, are left to oblivion.” 

“Homosexuals face a dramatically higher risk of AIDS, cancer, hepititis, and STDs and now homosexual activists David Island and Patrick Letellier document domestic violence as a primary health problem for same-gender sex partners ranking behind only AIDS for
males, cancer for females and drug abuse for both,” stated Gramley.

They write in their book entitled Men Who Beat the Men Who Love Them: “It is likely the incidence of domestic violence among gay men is nearly double that in the heterosexual population. As many as 650,000 gay men may be victims of domestic violence each year.” (page 14) 

Statistics from the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission said that of the 382 bias-related incidents reported to the commission from July 1, 2000 to June 30. 2001, there were 162 against blacks, 88 against Jews, 67 against whites, 23 against Latinos, and 19 against gays and lesbians. Looking at these stats, who is in more need of protection?

http://www.stopbias.org

“The statistics do not back the need for hate crimes laws. The real problem pervading the homosexual community is domestic assault, not hate crimes. So perhaps we need laws passed to protect homosexuals from domestic assaults from their own partners, instead of hate crimes laws.” Gramley concluded.

# # #

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  May 7, 2002

CONTACT:  Diane Gramley
1.814.432.5421


PRO-FAMILY GROUP SUPPORTS CATHOLIC CHURCH'S 40-YEAR OLD POLICY

(Erie)--  The Catholic Organization for Renewal, which consists of 20
Catholic reform organizations, met in Richmond April 27-28.  The groups
prepared and released a joint statement strongly condemning the effort to
link the sex abuse scandal to homosexual priests.

The American Family Association of Northwestern PA (AFANWPA), a pro-family
group, expressed concern that the attempt to shift the blame for the
assaults from homosexual priests would endanger even more young men. Since
the scandal became public in January, 177 priests nationwide have resigned
or been suspended, 23 here in Pennsylvania.  "This statement is an attempt
to draw attention away from homosexual priests and to undermine the church's
policy concerning homosexuality and the priesthood.  The truth is getting
out and the tide mustn't be turned." Diane Gramley of the traditional values
organization said today.

AFANWPA supports the Catholic Church's 40-year old policy instructing
bishops that men "affected by the perverse inclination to homosexuality or
pederasty should be excluded from religious vows and ordination."

http://www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/20020306.htm

At a news conference on April 26, Cardinal Anthony J. Bevilacqua, archbishop
of Philadelphia, stated that his archdiocese screens seminary applicants to
determine whether they are homosexual.  He confirmed that persons with
same-sex attractions are not suitable candidates for the priesthood. Those
in seminary in the Philadelphia archdiocese who are found homosexual and
sexually active are expelled.


Gramley stated, "We fully support Catholic Church leaders who have correctly
noted that over 90 percent of all molestation cases reported in the ongoing
priest abuse scandal were committed against post-pubescent teenage boys.  By
nature, those are homosexual acts not pedophilia."

http://www.msnbc.com/news/731454.asp,


Scientific data indicates that men who engage in homosexual behavior are
dramatically more likely to be guilty of molesting underage children.
Through a study of non-incarcerated child sex offenders, Gene G. Abel, M.D.,
has found that homosexuals 'sexually molest young boys with an incidence
that is occurring five times greater than the molestation of girls.

http://www.worldnetdaily.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=13210


AFANWPA also supports Catholic leaders in their implementation of a key
paragraph of U.S. Cardinals' recent statement from Rome, which states that
"the pastors of the church need clearly to...publicly reprimand
individuals...and groups" that label themselves "Catholic" while attempting
to undermine Catholic doctrine on the issue of homosexual behavior. The
"reform" groups which make up the Catholic Organization for Renewal would be
such a group.

http://www.newsmax.com/archives/articles/2002/4/24/165845.shtml

                         

# # # 

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 18, 2002

CONTACT: Diane Gramley   1.814.271.9078
Clarion University President Diane Reinhard 1.814.393.2220

PRO-FAMILY GROUP QUESTIONS UNIVERSITY'S CONCERN FOR STUDENTS

Today the American Family Association of Northwestern Pennsylvania, a pro-family organization, sent a letter to Clarion University President Diane Reinhard expressing concern over the course the university seems to be taking. "We are very concerned with the University's apparent endorsement of the homosexual lifestyle," Diane Gramley of the American Family Association of Northwestern PA said. "Their 'fundamental commitment to . . . diversity' may be putting students in harm's way," Gramley continued.

The University's openness to the formation of a gay and lesbian alumni group is but one indication they are on the wrong course. Tonight openly lesbian African-American theologian Rev. Irene Monroe will be the guest speaker in Hart Chapel. "Rev. Monroe, of all people, should be well aware and very alarmed about the AIDS epidemic running rampant in the African-American community," remarked Gramley. "Unfortunately, the topic of her presentation is 'The Role Religion Plays in Discrimination,' not warning of the inherent dangers of the homosexual lifestyle."

Society must discourage dangerous behavioral choices, not play the role of 'enabler' by tolerating and affirming self-destructive life-threatening activity. Clarion University of Pennsylvania appears to be playing the role of 'enabler' and members of the student body will be the losers.

TEXT of letter to Clarion University President Diane Reinhard
March 18, 2002

Dear President Reinhard:

Thank you for replying to my previous letter which expressed concerns about the university's endorsement of a gay and lesbian alumni group. Your letter states "the University's receptiveness to the formation of this group is derived from its fundamental commitment to equity and diversity." Shouldn't the University's fundamental commitment also be to the health and well-being of its students? My previous letter outlined physical, mental, and health dangers inherent to the homosexual lifestyle. The University seems not to be taking these into account in its final decision concerning the formation of this group, especially since the alumni newsletter says "the group intends to offer . . . mentoring for undergraduate students." Encouraging experimentation with homosexual sex?

Contrary to what your letter states, the university's openness to a gay and lesbian alumni group IS BOTH condoning and endorsing a particular lifestyle. This may also be evidenced in your choice of speakers for March 18. The openly lesbian African-American theologian, Rev. Irene Monroe, will be presenting "The Role Religion Plays in Discrimination." Rev. Monroe has written for several lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender publications, including The Advocate. Hopefully she will be honest about the risks involved in this lifestyle choice and that she will include the quote from The Advocate, "lesbians are at higher risk of breast, cervical, and ovarian cancer." Also, the recent Centers for Disease Control report should be included in her presentation. This research shows that despite the decline in the AIDS epidemic among the population at large, one in every 50 black men is infected with the HIV virus, compared to one in 240 white men. In addition, black women account for 63% of all new HIV infections among women in the U.S.

A compassionate society must be honest about the inherent dangers of the homosexual lifestyle. The university, as a part of society, must discourage, rather than encourage homosexuality. The decision that you make, as an institution of higher learning, concerning this matter will positively or negatively effect the health and well-being of your students. Hopefully the positive wins out. Awaiting your reply.

Sincerely,

Diane Gramley,
President

# # #

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, March 27, 2002

CONTACT:  Diane Gramley 1.814.432.4366 or 1.814.432.5421
President R. Thomas Williamson 1.724.946.7130
Dean of Student Affairs Neal Edman 1.724.946.7110

PRO-FAMILY GROUP ASKS IF WESTMINSTER COLLEGE IS NO LONGER CONCERNED WITH THE WELL-BEING OF ITS STUDENTS

(New Wilmington) -- On February 7 Westminster College invited Judy Shepard,
outspoken "hate crimes" activist and mother of slain homosexual Matthew
Shepard to speak in Orr Auditorium. Today a traditional values and
anti-violence organization sent an e-mail to President R. Thomas Williamson
and Dean Neal Edman expressing dismay in their apparent endorsement of the
"hate crimes express" and the homosexual lifestyle in general.  Diane
Gramley of the American Family Association of Northwestern PA (AFANWPA)
said, "Last year the author of 'Heather Has Two Mommies'was an invited guest
of Westminster College, supposedly to speak about the First Amendment right
of freedom of speech.  There are many more qualified speakers out there, why
choose Leslea Newman? This most recent invitation is just another step down
the wrong path for Westminster College."

AFANWPA recognizes the need for safer environments, not only on college
campuses, but elsewhere around the nation. Some in the homosexual lifestyle
are using this mantra to get hate crimes legislation passed that offers them
special protection. "Unfortunately, for those living in the homosexual
lifestyle the stats speak for themselves. The question again is whether
Westminster College is endorsing a lifestyle which is shown to be very
destructive and violent?" Gramley asked.

Homosexual activists David Island and Patrick Letellier -- both of San
Francisco and co-editors of the National Gay and Lesbian Domestic Violence
Network Newsletter -- write in their book, Men Who Beat the Men Who Love
Them, that domestic violence is a primary health problem for individuals
involved in homosexual behavior ranking behind only AIDS for males, cancer
for females, and drug abuse for both.

Island and Letellier write: "The probability of violence occurring in a gay
couple is mathematically double the probability of that in a heterosexual
couple...we believe as many as 650,000 gay men may be victims of domestic
violence each year in the United States." (Page 14)

(Note: 650,000 estimated incidents of homosexual domestic violence per year
among males alone in the U.S. is 494 times greater -- posing a 49,400
percent higher risk of actual violence -- than the 1,317 "hate crime"
incidents reported for one year in the U.S. by the FBI. The increased risk
is actually much higher, however, since the 650,000 figure includes men only
and does not include however many thousands of women in the U.S. involved in
homosexual behavior are victims each year of domestic violence at the hands
of their own sex partners.)

"Thus, compared to the rare but always highly publicized attacks by outside
assailants against individuals who engage in homosexual behavior, the far
greater threat -- 50,000 percent more likely -- is the rarely-reported
violence such individuals face at the hands of their own homosexual sex
partners, Gramley said.

The New York Times reported just that in a Nov. 6, 2000 article, in which
Times reporter John Leland wrote:

"While crimes against gay men and lesbians like the 1998 murder of Matthew
Shepard in Wyoming attract more attention in the news, domestic abuse in
same-sex relationships is both widespread and severe..., according to a
recent report by the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Projects, a network
of 24 nonprofit gay and lesbian organizations...The study by the
antiviolence projects found that cases of domestic violence among gay,
lesbian, bisexual and transgender people that were reported to member groups
rose 23 percent in 1999."


Below is the text of the e-mail to Dean Edman:


Dean Edman:

I must express my concern over the school's choice of speakers for February
7.  Since the death of her son, Matthew, Judy Shepard has become outspoken
about hate crimes legislation.  This is a tactic of homosexual activists who
seek to try to determine ones thoughts during the commission of a crime so a
stiffer punishment can be meted out -- thought police?  As we already know,
there are laws on the books against murder, assault and battery, etc., etc.

It was our hopes that last year's invitation of the author of "Heather Has
Two Mommies" was an oversight on your part, but it appears that you did not
view it as a mistake. It appears that Westminster College may be openly
endorsing and condoning the homosexual lifestyle.  I would hope that this
would not be the case.

One of a college's main concerns should be the health and well-being of
their students.  By inviting speakers who openly endorse homosexuality,
Westminster College is, in fact, encouraging a very dangerous lifestyle. 
According to the Oxford University International Journal of Epidemiology,
college-aged men who engage in homosexual behavior are at risk of dying up
to 20 years younger than other men.  It reported:  "Life expectancy at age
20 years for gay and bisexual men is 8 to 20 years less than for all men.
Nearly half of gay and bisexual men currently aged 20 years will not reach
their 65th birthday."

http://ije.oupjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/26/3/657?maxtoshow=&HITS=10&
hits=10&RESULTFORMAT=&searchid=QID_NOT_SET&FIRSTINDEX=&
volume=26&firstpage=657&journalcode=intjepid

How many 20-year-old males are currently enrolled at Westminster?

The Medical Institute for Sexual Health reports that women who have sex with
women are at significantly increased risk of bacterial vaginosis, breast
cancer and ovarian cancer than are heterosexual women." (Executive Summary,
"Health Implications Associated with Homosexuality," 1999,
www.medinstitute.org )

This names only a few health risks involved in the homosexual lifestyle. 
But specifically referring to hate crimes and its advocate, Judy Shepherd,
according to the PA Human Relations Commission there were 382 bias-related
incidents reported from July 1, 2000 to June 30, 2001.  There were 162
against blacks, 67 against whites and 19 against gays and lesbians. 
(www.stopbias.org)

The FBI's 2000 Uniform Crime Report shows that the incident rate of hate
crimes against homosexuals has remained virtually unchanged in the past
year.  The category that increased by the largest percentage:
"anti-heterosexual" hate crimes.  Also according to the FBI, the largest
single category of hate crimes (52 percent) continues to be that of
"intimidation," which includes verbal threats that do not include physical
violence.

May I remind you that the continued push for acceptance of homosexuality in
the Presbyterian Church (USA) has seriously challenged unity within the 2.5
million member church and even led to the birth of the Confessing Church
Movement which advocates a reaffirmation of historic Christian values. 
Earlier this month the latest attempt by homosexual activists to eliminate
the "fidelity and chastity" provision in the Presbyterian Church (USA) Book
of Order failed, with a majority of presbyteries rejecting the
pro-homosexual measure.

Our hope is that Westminster College, as a Presbyterian institution, would
not encourage pro-homosexual activists' push for acceptance within the
church. In so doing Westminster is also contributing to the disunity within
the church.

Awaiting your reply.

Sincerely,

Diane Gramley
President,
American Family Association of NW PA


                                  # # #

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March 5, 2002

PRO-FAMILY ASSOCIATION QUESTIONS CLARION UNIVERSITY'S ENDORSEMENT OF GAY AND LESBIAN ALUMNI GROUP

A recent Clarion University alumni newsletter indicates that the idea of starting a gay and lesbian alumni group is being endorsed by the school. "This alumni group is set to provide 'mentoring to undergraduate students'. Parents do not want their teenager to be encouraged to experiment in the homosexual lifestyle," Diane Gramley of the American Family Association of Northwestern PA asked today. "Many parents will be very upset with the university's stand on this issue."

Today the American Family Association of Northwestern PA, a traditional values, pro-family group, sent a letter to President Reinhard and The Office of Social Equity of Clarion University expressing their concerns. "Our hopes are that the University will be awakened to the dangers of this lifestyle and realize how inappropriate it is for them to endorse a group that may encourage students to experiment in homosexual sex." Gramley continued. 

Below is the text of the letter:


March 5, 2002

Dear President Reinhard:

It was with grave concern that I read an article entitled “Gay and Lesbian Alumni Group” in a recent alumni newsletter. In the article it states that alumnus Terry Boots is interested in the establishment of a gay and lesbian alumni group. It further states that “the group
intends to offer networking opportunities, social events, mentoring for undergraduate students, and other areas of alumni support as they are identified.”

Even more disturbing is that Boots is “very encouraged by the university’s receptiveness to the formation of the alumni group.” Perhaps you and other members of the administration do not realize the dangers of such a move. What is meant by “social events, mentoring for undergraduate students?” In many cases such a group’s activities
are to encourage students who are “questioning their sexuality” to experiment with homosexual sex. These groups stand with their “arms wide open” to any lonely or homesick student. This should immediately raise concerns of the administration, staff, parents, and donors to Clarion University.

The very nature of homosexual sex is prone to major health, physical, and psychological dangers. A few are listed below:

Oxford University Journal of Epidemiology reports the life expectancy of men who have sex with men is shortened by up to 20 years. Smoking shortens men’s lives by up to 7.3 years. Which is the more dangerous?

A recent Centers for Disease Control (CDC) study of over 3, 492 men who have sex with men found one in six also had sex with women. Bisexuals are a “bridge” infecting women with HIV.

Homosexual researchers found that men involved in homosexual behavior are at least 452 times more likely to be victims of violence at the hands of their own same-gender sex partner than they are at the hands of an individual committing a so called “hate crime.”

Anal cancer “soars” by nearly 4,000% for men who have sex with men.

“The Advocate” concurs tht “lesbians are at higher risk of breast, cervical, and ovarian cancer.”

Higher incidences of drug and alcohol abuse are found in those who engage in the homosexual lifestyle.

The Journal of the American Medical Association finds that “people with same-sex sexual behavior are at greater risk of psychiatric disorders.”

This is only a short list of the risks for those living in the homosexual lifestyle. I would hope a review of these dangers would cause you to pause in your endorsement of a gay and lesbian alumni group which may encourage students to enter this lifestyle. A
university which was really concerned about their students’ welfare would not be promoting such a dangerous lifestyle, either in alumni or the current student body.

I hope to hear from you soon concerning this matter.

Sincerely,


Diane Gramley
President,
American Family Association of NW PA


cc: The Office of Social Equity

# # # 

CLICK HERE TO READ DR. REINHARD'S RESPONSE

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February 27, 2002

HRC ORDINANCE PASSES IN ERIE COUNTY-- DID THEY GET WHAT THEY WANT?

(Erie, PA) -- After a year long debate and several drafts, the Human Relations Ordinance in Erie County was passed by a vote of 6 to 1, with Chairman Dave Mitchell being the sole voice of reason. Passage of this ordinance is not going to bring the economic windfall that it has been touted as bringing, a traditional values group said today. Diane Gramley of the American Family Association of Northwestern PA said, "Passage of this ordinance will further undermine the traditional family and traditional beliefs about marriage, thus undermining the very foundation of any society -- including Erie County."

Inclusion of last minute amendments may have taken some of the "teeth" out of the ordinance. One of the amendments states that the ordinance will not bestow "any greater right than those afforded individuals . . . under the Constitution of the United States of America, the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. . . ." Another one says, "This Ordinance shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania." Gramley questioned, "The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania does not have laws on the books with the words "sexual orientation" included, so is this ordinance really all the "gay" community wanted or are they in for a surprise? As we have stated all along, they have the same rights with the same limitations as all Americans, special wording in an ordinance is not necessary."

Even though the words 'by practice or as perceived by others' was removed from the definition of "sexual orientation" in the final ordinance, the words "gender identity" remain. "This term is so radical that only about two dozen cities in the nation have adopted ordinances with such wording. Erie County can now be added to that 'hall of shame.' Even openly homosexual Congressman Barney Frank opposes inclusion of so called "gender identity" language in the federal Employment Non-Discrimination Act. He recognizes the danger and warns that so-called 'transgender' activists will use the language to literally demand that men who believe they're women be allowed to use women's restrooms and showers. Erie County Council members should have taken his warning to heart," said Gramley.

Several times during the meeting Councilwoman Joy Greco said the Council was not in a position to make moral decisions, but to handle legislative issues. "Dave Mitchell seemed to be the only council member to get the message that 'morality counts.' Our Founding Fathers recognized the importance of morality in government. Our second president and signer of the Declaration of Independence, John Adams, said, 'It is religion and morality alone which can establish the principles upon which freedom can securely stand. The only foundation of a free constitution is pure virtue.' If laws are not based on morality, then our nation is lost. It is very disturbing to hear an elected official say there is no need for making decisions based on morality," Gramley remarked. 

# # #

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February 21, 2002

SALVATION ARMY AGAIN TARGETED BY "GAY RIGHTS" LAWS

(Erie, PA) -- As the Erie County Council nears time for voting on the Human Relations Commission "anti-discrimination" ordinance, a hard look needs to be taken at the full ramifications of such an ordinance in Erie County, a pro-family group said today. A close look at the document will show that it is in fact a discriminatory homosexual special rights ordinance. "Consistently where "gay rights" laws have been passed traditional values organizations such as the Salvation Army and the Boy Scouts are themselves discriminated against," Diane Gramley of the American Family Association of Northwestern PA said.

The latest situation is in Cook County, Illinois where on February 7 a proposal for the county to hire the Salvation Army was withdrawn because of the county's ordinance banning employment discrimination against gays and lesbians.

http://www.chicagofreepress.com/021302/news.html#salvation

The contract was to provide therapeutic counseling services for delinquent minors. "In this situation the losers are the minors directly affected by the discriminatory practices dictated by this ordinance," said Gramley. "Erie County will face the same type situations if the proposed ordinance is passed," Gramley continued.

Article IV, Section M says in part, "does not include religious, fraternal, charitable, or sectarian corporations . . . , EXCEPT such corporations or associations supported, in whole or in part, by governmental appropriations." Any religious or charitable organization that employs more than four people and receives any government funding will face discrimination if they do not hire homosexuals.

"The vast majority of Erie County residents are being kept in the dark about what passage of this ordinance really means to them and their families. This is all part of a well-planned assault on the traditional family and traditional beliefs in Erie County and in the end the children will be the losers," remarked Gramley.

  # # #

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January 31, 2002

COUNTY EXECUTIVE RICK SCHENKER IS NOT LEADING THE WAY

(Erie, PA) -- A pro-family organization today expressed disappointment in County Executive Rick Schenker for not taking a leadership role in opposing the Human Relations Commission ordinance. "I am extremely disappointed in Rick Schenker not publicly opposing this homosexual special rights ordinance which is masquarading as a 
"non -discrimination" ordinance," Diane Gramley of the American Family Association of Northwestern PA said.

Today the American Family Association of NW PA sent letters to each County Council member outlining concerns about the discriminatory special rights ordinance. Also, a letter was sent to the County Executive expressing disappointment that he is not taking a leadership role in opposing the ordinance. "This issue is not one of civil rights, but it is a small group of the population seeking validation for their lifestyle choice and the county executive's responsibility is to stand with those who put him in office," said Gramley.

Below is a copy of the letter to the County Executive:

January 31, 2002

Dear Mr. Schenker:

As you well know, homosexual activists are making inroads around the nation in their attempts to undermine the traditional family. I must express my disappointment in you for not taking a leadership role in opposing the discriminatory homosexual special rights ordinance. Passage of this ordinance will have a detrimental affect on Erie County.

Below are some of my concerns:
o In areas where such ordinances have passed, the Boy Scouts have
been discriminated against and had to fight for the right to 
use public parks.
o The Salvation Army has been discriminated against because of
their stance not to offer domestic partner benefits to same-sex
employees.
o Oxford University Journal of Epidemiology reports the life
expectancy of men who have sex with men is shortened by up to
20 years. Smoking shortens men's lives by up to 7.3 years. 
Which is the more dangerous?
o The Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, all religious
organizations or churches which receive any government funds
will be required under this ordinance to hire practicing 
homosexuals (Article IV, Section M).
o "Gender identity, by practice or as perceived by others" is
part of the definition of 'sexual orientation'. This term is so
radical that only about two dozen cities
in the nation have adopted ordinances with such wording. Openly
homosexual Congressman Barney Frank opposes including so called
"gender identity" language in a federal 'gay rights' law. He 
warns that so-called "transgender" activists will use such 
language to literally demand that men who believe they're women
be allowed to use women's restrooms and showers.
o A recent Centers for Disease Control (CDC) study of over 3,492 
men who have sex with men found one in six also had sex with
women. Bisexuals are a "bridge" infecting women with HIV.
o Homosexual researchers found that men involved in homosexual
behavior are at least 452 times more likely to be victims of 
violence at the hands of their own same-gender sex partner than
they are at the hands of an individual committing a so called
"hate crime."

These list only a few concerns, there are others. Giving special rights to a very small percentage of the population would be a grave error and the rights of the majority of Erie County residents would be infringed. The future of Erie County is in your hands.

Sincerely,

Diane Gramley

# ##

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January 23, 2002

PRO-FAMILY GROUP ENCOURAGED BY LATEST REPORTS FROM COUNTY EXEC RICK SCHENKER'S OFFICE

(Erie, PA.) -- It appears that Erie County may have a County Executive who
is truly concerned with the "protection of the public welfare, prosperity
(and) health" of its citizens.  Today the American Family Association of
Northwestern PA was encouraged by some of the latest reports coming out of
County Exec Rick Schenker's office.  "We are greatly encouraged and very
optimistic that the new County Executive will follow through with his
promise to veto the anti-discrimination ordinance if it contains the words
"sexual orientation," said Diane Gramley of the American Family Association
of Northwestern PA.

The proposed Human Relations Commission anti-discrimination ordinance would
give homosexuals special rights because of their behavior.  If adopted, the
ordinance would recognize and declare sexual orientation a civil right. 
When protecting civil rights, the government must discern between liberty
and license.  Rights must be attached to persons because of their humanity,
not because of their behaviors.  "Homosexuals have the same civil rights as
all Americans.  They have equal protection under the law.  Putting their
cries of discrimination on the same plain as the true discrimination
experienced by African Americans is wrong," Gramley stated.  A 1999 Wirthlin
Worldwide Poll of more than 1,000 Americans revealed that 75 percent of
respondents felt that "homosexuals have not suffered the same kind of legal
injustice (such as not being able to vote, get an education, or earn a
living) as black Americans have."

A compassionate society does not legitimize such a dangerous lifestyle. 
Passage of this anti-discrimination ordinance with the words "sexual
orientation" would encourage a very deadly lifestyle--decreased lifespan by
up to 20 years, increase in AIDS, STDs, anal cancer, breast, cervical and
ovarian cancer, a high rate of domestic violence, name only a few.  "The
ordinance's definition of 'sexual orientation' includes 'gender identity by
practice or as perceived'.  Openly gay Congressman Barney Frank even opposes
this language in the federal 'gay rights' law.  Rick Schenker realizes the
true dangers of this ordinance and lifestyle and has sought to intervene on
behalf of the voters who put him in office," declared Gramley.
                             # # #

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January 18, 2002

GLSEN WINS, PENNSYLVANIA LOSES IN TITUSVILLE SETTLEMENT

(Titusville, PA) --  Yesterday's announcement that Titusville Area School
District has settled a federal civil rights lawsuit brought against them by
homosexual student Timothy Dahle and his parents is very troubling a
pro-family organization said today.  "It is a
tragedy when any student is verbally or physically harassed, but to award
$312,000 to a student because of his lifestyle choice is a greater tragedy,"
Diane Gramley of the American Family Association of Northwestern
Pennsylvania said.

Many feel that obese students are the most bullied in schools nationwide.
"What message does awarding settlement in a 'gay harassment lawsuit' give to
short, tall, obese or thin students who may be objects of ridicule? The
message would be that 'gay' students have special rights and privileges,"
said Gramley.

The Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN), a Washington, D.C.
based gay rights organizations says this is the first such settlement in
Pennsylvania.  In a 1997 conference, GLSEN executive director, Kevin
Jennings, admitted his goal was the promotion of homosexuality in public
schools.  During the conference workshops,
activists were to first ask education administrators to make schools "safe"
for homosexual youth. GLSEN admitted such a move was a "stepping stone" to
further goals--including complete curriculum revision and the use of
pro-homosexual materials.

"Sadly, it appears homosexual activists may have used Timothy Dahle and his
parents to set a precedence here in Pennsylvania.  Homosexual activists
around the country are using the "safe school" mantra to get their agenda
into classrooms.  Parents need to be fully aware that this may be the first
step in a full blown assault on Pennsylvania schools,"
Gramley warns.

                                  # # #

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PRO-FAMILY GROUP QUESTIONS CRIES OF VICTIM STATUS

January 8, 2002


The Erie County Council, meeting in Courtroom H of the County Courthouse,
voted tonight to table for 30 days
the very controversial HRC anti-discrimination ordinance.  Councilwoman Joy
Greco stated her reason for presenting the motion to table the ordinance was
to give the legal team of the new Erie County Executive, Rick Schenker, an
opportunity to review the ordinance. The decision to table was made after
hearing almost two hours of public comment.   "As evidenced by tonight and
past meetings, the controversy swirls around the words 'sexual orientation.'
  To include these words is opening a Pandora's Box that will bring nothing
but heartache to the citizens of Erie County, " said Diane Gramley,
President of the American Family Association of Northwestern PA.

Contrary to their claims of 'discrimination,' there is not an effort to deny
homosexuals the same rights guaranteed to all Americans.  "The truth is that
homosexuals have the same rights, with the same restrictions, as everyone
else. Why do they want special rights?"  asked Gramley.  "This ordinance
would give a small percentage of the population special rights. Nationwide,
4% of the population is homosexual according to the Journal of Sex
Research."

Homosexuality is a chosen behavior, as evidenced by the thousands who have
come out of the lifestyle, and testified to by several who addressed the
Council tonight.  If this ordinance is passed as it stands, Article III
states that 'sexual orientation' will be a civil right.  Yet in a 1999
Wirthlin Worldwide poll of more than 1,000 Americans, 75 percent of the
respondents said that 'homosexuals have not suffered the same kind of legal
injustice as African Americans have.'  "Homosexuals try to equate their
choice of lifestyle with skin color.  Persons have no choice over their skin
color, sex they are at birth or nation they are born in, they do have a
choice in how they live their lives," Gramley stated.

"The attempt tonight and throughout the campaign to get this ordinance
passed has been to paint homosexuals as victims.  A strategy used throughout
the country to exploit good people's sympathy, but not substantiated by the
evidence," said Gramley. A November 1987 article in the homosexual magazine
Guide outlined the strategy homosexuals should use to gain special
protection:  'In any campaign to win over the public, gays must be cast as
victims in need of protection so that straights will be inclined by reflex
to assume to role of protector. . . .  Our campaign should not demand direct
support for homosexual practices, but should instead take
anti-discrimination as its theme.'  Homosexual activists realize that when
people become aware of the common homosexual practices, they will see that
these behaviors do not merit special protection in the law.

Many times throughout the meeting Fortune 500 Companies were mentioned. 
Some seem to believe that if this ordinance is passed they will come
flocking to Erie. Gramley commented, "Councilwoman Greco's investigation
revealed that the passage of such an ordinance in other cities in the state
have only had a negligible impact on the economy.  Hanging the hope for a
better Erie economy on this ordinance is a big mistake, becoming more family
friendly would go much further."

Tonight, those who oppose this ordinance were called bigots and compared to
the ones who bombed the World Trade Center.  Opposition to extending special
rights to homosexuals is not based on ignorance or bigotry, but on informed
judgment about homosexual behavior and the political agenda of homosexual
activists.  "Bigotry shows intolerance.  The only intolerance I saw was from
some of those who support this ordinance.  A compassionate society is a
tolerant society, but also is willing to confront and not confirm a
destructive lifestyle such as homosexuality.  Granting special legal
protection to homosexuals would not only confirm homosexuality as an
acceptable lifestyle, but would also take away rights from others, who will
protect those rights? " concluded Gramley.

                                           # # #

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1.814.432.5421

December 17, 2001

AN EARLY CHRISTMAS PRESENT FOR THE GAY COMMUNITY?

(Erie, PA)-- As Erie County Council is poised Tuesday to consider the
adoption of proposed changes to their anti-discrimination ordinance, a
pro-family and anti-violence group again expressed concerns over the
adoption that would offer protection because of one's "sexual orientation." 
Diane Gramley, President of the American Family Association of Northwestern
PA, asked today, "Have the citizens of Erie County been fully informed as to
the ramifications of these changes to the anti-discrimination ordinance? 
Statistics show that individuals who engage in homosexual behavior threaten
not only their own lives, but the lives of the general public."

Hatred and violence is indeed widespread in the homosexual community, but a
recent report shows the source of much of it is homosexuals themselves.  The
report released by the Justice Department on "Intimate Partner Violence"
found a significant percentage of male partners were attacked by their male
"intimate partners."  From 1993 to 1999, there was a yearly average of
142,290 male victims of intimate partner violence.  Of these, male live-in
lovers accounted for about 10 percent of the incidents (13,740).  The report
found that "same-sex cohabitants reported significantly more intimate
partner violence than did opposite sex-cohabitants."

Between the Lines, Michigan's statewide "gay" newspaper, reports the risk of
anal cancer "soars" by nearly 4,000% for men who have sex with men.  "The
rate doubles again for those who are HIV positive."  The newspaper also
admits there's no such thing as "safe sex" to prevent this "soaring" cancer
risk:  "A condom offers only limited protection."

http://www.pridesource.com/cgi-bin/article?article=3834457

The Medical Institute of Sexual Health reports that The Advocate, a
"national gay and lesbian newsmagazine, concurs that "lesbians are at higher
risk of breast, cervical, and ovarian cancer."

The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention report that men who engage in
homosexual behavior are 860% more likely to contract a sexually transmitted
disease (STD), increasing up to 500% their risk of contracting HIV/AIDS.

http://www.cdc.gov/epo/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml.mm4835al.htm

A Gay Health article states that men who have sex with men are 320% more
likely than heterosexuals to have unprotected sex without telling their
partners they're HIV positive.

http://www.gayhealth.com/templates/0/news?record=136

As with smoking, homosexual behavior's "second hand" effects threaten public
health.  Gramley said, "The New England Journal of Medicine reports that men
who smoke risk cutting 7.3 years off their lives.  Yet the Oxford
University's Journal of Epidemiology reports that the life expectancy of gay
and bisexual men is shorten by up to 20 years.  Looking at the statistics
show how deadly this lifestyle is.  Now is the Erie County Council willing
to give added protection to a lifestyle that creates such a public health
risk?"

According to a new survey by the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, 76
percent of lesbians, gays and bisexuals reported they feel more accepted by
society today than a few years ago.  A new online survey finds that the
income of homosexual households is 65 percent higher that the U.S. median
income.  Nearly 6,000 respondents completed the "2001 Gay/Lesbian Consumer
Online Census," conducted by Opus Commgroup.  More than a fifth of the
respondents reported a combined household income of $100,000 or more, with
nearly 60 percent of gay male households and 46 percent of lesbian
households reporting a combined income greater than $60,000. "There seems to
be some contradiction as to just how discriminated against those living in
the homosexual lifestyle are," Gramley commented.  "This survey shows that
the discrimination is not as widespread nationwide as homosexual activists
would have us believe.  Where are the numbers to back up the cries of
discrimination in Erie County?"

"Erie County Council has a number of questions that need to be addressed,"
Gramley said, "Those questions include:
'Would the county or a business be forced to hire a pedophile, if he applied
to work in a job that requires being around children...a zoophile around
animals?',
'Could we walk into a county office and see a man with make-up, wearing a
dress?',
'Is the city ready to sellout huge amounts of money to make sure all county
buildings have "non-gender" restrooms?'."

"The overbearing question needing to be answered is why should someone be
given special rights because of their behavior? Erie County residents have
every right to know if all 37 sexual orientations identified by researchers
are covered under this anti-discrimination ordinance.  Right now it appears
the residents of the county are being left in the dark about this pending
public health threat." Gramley concluded.

                           # # #

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