AMERICAN FAMILY ASSOCIATION OF NORTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA

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

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.

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. "

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.

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.

"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.

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.

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).

"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.

(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."

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.

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."

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 30, 2002

CONTACT: Diane Gramley 1.814.432.5421 or 1.814.271.9078

Noreen Shanfelter 1.215.567.7000

BOY SCOUTS ARE RIGHT AND BIG BROTHERS/BIG SISTERS ARE WRONG A PRO-FAMILY GROUP SAYS

CLICK HERE TO CONTACT BIG BROTHERS/BIG SISTERS

(Harrisburg, PA) In a statement delivered today to the Big Brothers/Big Sisters (BBBSA) national office and numerous local affiliates of the organization a pro-family group expressed concern for the safety of children in their mentoring programs. The statement from the American Family Association of Northwestern PA (AFANWPA) read in part: "The recent disclosure that another "Big Brother" has been charged with 'indecent exposure, corruption of minors, open lewdness, indecent assault and deviate sexual intercourse' because of his alleged sexual contact with his "Little Brother" is further proof that Big Brothers/Big Sisters' decision to allow open homosexuals as mentors is putting our children in danger. How can anyone who is questioning his own sexuality mentor a little boy and teach him how to be a good husband and father."

http://abclocal.go.com/wpvi/news/102502_lewd.html

"The Boy Scouts have been condemned and are still being pressured to allow homosexual scout leaders. The incident in Phoenixville is further proof that the Boy Scouts are right and Big Brothers/Big Sister's policy change to allow homosexuals as mentors is wrong and endangering our children," Diane Gramley, president of AFANWPA said.

"There is overwhelming evidence that homosexuals are more likely to be the perpetrators of sexual assaults on children, Gramley continued, "There is also an alarming number of homosexuals who argue that pedophilia is an acceptable aspect of homosexuality."

"Although homosexual activists claim they are no more likely to sexually molest children than heterosexuals are, (Dr. Judith) Reisman says research proved the opposite...Based on data from 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

"In proportion to their numbers (about 1 out of 36 men), homosexual males are more likely to engage in sex with minors: in fact, they appear to be three times more likely than straight men to engage in adult-child sexual relations...While no more than 2 percent of male adults are homosexual, some studies indicate that approximately 35 percent of pedophiles are homosexuals. Further, since homosexual pedophiles victimize far more children than do heterosexual pedophiles, it is estimated that approximately 80 percent of pedophilic victims are boys who have been molested by adult males." http://www.narth.com/docs/pedophNEW.html

Also consider this from psychiatrist Jeffrey Satinover in Homosexuality and the Politics of Truth in his reflection on the Journal of Homosexuality's "Male Intergenerational Intimacy": This special issue reflects the substantial, influential, and growing segment of the homosexual community that neither hides nor condemns pedophilia. Rather they argue that pedophilia is an acceptable aspect of sexuality, especially of homosexuality. Indeed, the San Francisco Sentinel, a Bay Area gay-activist newspaper, published a piece arguing that pedophilia is central to male homosexual life."

Popular gay and lesbian fiction often portrays adult-child sexual relationships as fondly remembered, tender "coming of age" stories. Much of this fiction is aimed specifically at teenagers and is recommended to them in publications such as 'Be Yourself: Questions and Answers for Gay, Lesbian and Bisexual Youth,' published by Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (P-FLAG) and in some public school libraries.

Dutch psychologist Gerard van den Aardweg states that "non-coerced" sex is a misnomer because there is always an element of coercion -- involving a misuse of adult authority, and a misuse of the child's need for affection.

Gramley asked, "Are we seeing another sex scandal unfold before our eyes? There have already been cases of "Big Brothers" molesting 'Little Brothers" in Salt Lake City, UT, Keen, NH, Newark, OH, Newton, MA and Toronto, now we can add Phoenixville, PA to that growing list."

"We already have a Catholic Church sex scandal because of homosexual priests. Is a Big Brothers/Big Sisters sex scandal looming on the horizon because of allowing homosexuals to be mentors? I believe the facts tell the story," Gramley concluded.

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 25, 2002

CONTACT: Diane Gramley 1.814.432.5421

Or 1.814.271.9078

Bobby Soule, Lamar Advertising

1.330.759.8200

PRO-FAMILY GROUP SAYS LAMAR ADVERTISING IS TRYING TO 'WHITEWASH' ITS IMAGE THROUGH DONATION

(Pittsburgh, PA) -- Today a pro-family group expressed outrage that Lamar Advertising is trying to whitewash its image by donating advertising space to families of murdered children seeking information about the slayings. According to a Pittsburgh Post-Gazette article, Lamar has donated $35,000 in advertising space seeking help in solving 19 murders.

http://www.post-gazette.com/neigh_south/20020924sburbs0924p9.asp

The American Family Association of Northwestern PA (AFANWPA) sent a statement to Mr. Bobby Soule, Vice President/General Manager of the Girard/Youngstown, Ohio office expressing concern that Lamar is continuing its anti-family practices. Mr. Soule authorized a billboard of an 18-year-old murder victim be placed in Youngstown on Friday.

"It is well known that Lamar readily advertises sexually oriented businesses (SOBs) which have a detrimental effect upon individuals, families and communities as a whole. Lamar doesn't want concerned citizens to look at their dark side -- the side which profits from the harm done to others," said Diane Gramley president of AFANWPA. Lamar Advertising is the third largest outdoor advertising company in the nation and the largest to advertise SOBs

"Citizens in northwestern Pennsylvania have been contacting Lamar Advertising for months expressing outrage that the Girard, Ohio office had authorized a billboard in Girard for the Headliners Club in Greenville, PA. An out-of-state office has readily advertised a business which citizens in Greenville, PA don't want. Mr. Soule has shown apparent disregard to all the concerns of the people most directly effected by this 'business' in their backyard," Gramley continued.

http://www.afanwpa.org/headliners_club.htm

Recently Lamar Advertising removed the billboard for the Headliners Club and is now advertising a local SOB -- further proof that they are willing to put profit before principle.

It is appalling to see Lamar trying to clean up its image through a donation of $35,000 in advertising space. "Our hearts go out to the families of the murder victims, but unfortunately Lamar is willing to take advantage of the campaign to again play a masquerade game and pretend they are someone they aren't. A company which was REALLY concerned about families would not advertise SOBs," Gramley concluded.

Below is the text of the fax to Mr. Bobby Soule, Vice-President/General Manager in Girard, Ohio:

Mr. Soule:

Lamar Advertising Company's recent removal of the billboard in Girard, Ohio for a sexually oriented business (SOB) located in Greenville, PA was an encouraging sign. Unfortunately your apparent disregard for the well-being of communities is evident in the placement of a billboard for an Ohio SOB on the very same sign!! This is almost like a slap in the face to the many Pennsylvania residents who have called, written, e-mailed and sent "birthday cards" to Lamar advertising while it celebrated its 100th birthday. These communications highlighted the dismay many residents of northwestern PA felt towards Lamar Advertising.

As indicated in the correspondence, especially the 'birthday cards," we do not feel that Charles W. Lamar Sr., founder of Lamar Advertising, would have advertised a brothel. It now appears that your campaign against families continues with this recent addition of the billboard for Club 76, an SOB in the Girard/Youngstown area.

As stated in previous letters to you, the U.S. Supreme Court recognizes that SOBs create "adverse secondary effects" such as unlawful sexual activity, STDs, harmful effects and declining property values of nearby businesses and residences, increased crime and blight.

An article in yesterday's Pittsburgh Post-Gazette gives the appearance that you may be trying to "whitewash" Lamar's image by donating $35,000 worth of advertising space to help the families of murdered children seeking information about the murders. One of these billboards will be in Youngstown. Lamar continues to advertise businesses that are shown to cause increased crime on one hand, but on the other wants the community to think they are family friendly.

Shame on Lamar!

Sincerely,

Diane Gramley

President,

American Family Association of Northwestern PA

______________________

end fax

# # #

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 25, 2002

CONTACT: Diane Gramley 1.814.432.5421

1.814.271.9078

TRADITIONAL FAMILY GROUP APPLAUDS FATHER ANDREW BAKER'S OPPOSITION TO THE ORDINATION OF GAY PRIEST

(Allentown, PA) -- In the current issue of the Jesuit-published magazine "America," former Allentown priest Father Andrew Baker writes an article opposing the ordination of gay priests. Today the American Family Association of Northwestern PA (AFANWPA) commends Father Baker for his courage to stand on Catholic doctrine and not be swayed by homosexual pressure groups which do not seem to know the official Catholic doctrine on this issue. "Churches, Catholic and Protestant, are under immense pressure to give into homosexual activists, intent on legitimizing their lifestyle by ignoring or twisting church doctrine," Diane Gramley, president of the American Family Association of Northwestern PA, said today. "Here we have a Catholic priest who has the courage to publicly take a very unpopular stand -- we give him a well-deserved round of applause."

Cardinal Anthony J. Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia stated at a news conference on April 26, 2002 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 to be homosexual and sexually active are expelled. Father Andrew Baker's article agrees with what Cardinal Bevilacqua has recently said and reaffirms that there is no 'gray" area in Catholic doctrine on this issue.

In the May 22, 2002 issue of "Between the Lines," Michigan's statewide homosexual newsmagazine Hastings Wyman writes
"However, the pattern of sexual abuse among Catholic clergy does support a gay problem. While estimates aren't hard numbers, reasonable observers believe that at least 30 percent, and perhaps as many as 50 percent, of Catholic priests are gay, but that 90 percent of the cases of sex with adolescents that have come to light in the church involve teenage boys, not girls. Do the math."

http://www.pridesource.com/cgi-bin/article?article=384122

As is well known, the Catechism defines homosexual behavior as "acts of grave depravity...intrinsically disordered...contrary to the natural law...Under no circumstances can they be approved." http://www.vatican.va/archive/catechism/p3s2c2a6.htm#II

"Letter to the Bishops of the Catholic Church on the Pastoral Care of Homosexual Persons"

Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, The Vatican, 1986

http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/cfaith/documents/rc_con_cfaith_doc_19861001_homosexual-persons_en.html

"His Holiness, Pope John Paul II, approved this Letter, adopted in an ordinary session of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, and ordered it to be published."

Section 7

"A person engaging in homosexual behaviour therefore acts immorally."

Section 8

'Nevertheless, increasing numbers of people today, even within the Church, are bringing enormous pressure to bear on the Church to accept the homosexual condition as though it were not disordered and to condone homosexual activity. Those within the church who argue in this fashion often have close ties with those with similar views outside it…The Church's ministers must ensure that homosexual persons in their care will not be misled by this point of view, so profoundly opposed to the teaching of the Church. But the risk is great and there are many who seek to create confusion regarding the Church' position, and then to use that confusion to their own advantage."

Section 15

'We encourage the Bishops, then, to provide pastoral care in full accord with the teaching of the Church for homosexual persons of their dioceses. No authentic pastoral program will include organizations in which homosexual persons associate with each other without clearly stating that homosexual activity is immoral.

DignityUSA, and organization of about 3,000 gays and lesbian Catholics immediately criticized Father Baker's article. BUT Dignity defines itself -- in direct contradiction to the Catechism -- as a "lay movement of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Catholics...(who) believe that we can express our sexuality in a loving, life-affirming manner that is in keeping with Christ's teaching." Its current web site harshly attacks Church officials for their truthful and faithful comments regarding Church doctrine on homosexual behavior and the homosexual nature of the abuse perpetrated by a small number of priests against young children. http://www.dignityusa.or

Understandably, the Catholic League includes "Dignity" on its list of "anti-Catholic" activist organizations. (See 6/18-26/94 listing at: http://www.catholicleague.org/1994report/94activists.htm

Section 17 (part)

"All support should be withdrawn from any organizations which seek to undermine the teaching of the Church (regarding homosexual behavior), which are ambiguous about it, or which neglect it entirely. Such support, or even the semblance of such support, can be gravely misinterpreted.

In a Statement of the Cardinals of the U.S., The Vatican, April 24, 2002 --

"Pastors of the Church need clearly to promote the correct moral teaching of the Church and publicly to reprimand individuals who spread dissent and groups which advance ambiguous approaches to pastoral care." http://www.newsmax.com/archives/articles/2002/4/24/165845.shtml

Is this April 24, 2002 Statement of the Cardinals referring to Catholic leaders such as Auxiliary Bishop Thomas Gumbleton of Detroit who wrote an article in the same issue of "America" supporting the ordination of gay priest? Bishop Gumbleton actively campaigned in favor of a so-call 'gay rights' ordinance in 2001 in Ferndale, Michigan. This ordinance was soundly defeated by the voters.

"There is no question what Catholic Doctrine is-- even a casual look at the documentation shows that the Church views homosexual behavior as immoral. Homosexual activists groups within the Church and even some in Church leadership should become better educated on the Church's doctrine rather than mislead so many," Gramley commented.

# # #

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 20, 2002

CONTACT: Diane Gramley 1.814.432.5421 or 1.814.271.9078

PRO-FAMILY GROUP WARNS MILLCREEK TOWNSHIP POLICE OF PUBLIC HEALTH RISKS AT SCOTT PARK

(Erie, PA) - Today a pro-family group sent a thank you and a warning to Lieutenant Richard Figaski of the Millcreek Township Police concerning the homosexual activity in Scott Park and the public health threat posed. The group expressed outrage that such activity was taking place in the park. "This is additional proof that a public health threat looms in Erie County. Engaging in sex in public places such as parks and restrooms are commonplace within the homosexual community," Diane Gramley president of the American Family Association of Northwestern PA sai

According to an article entitled 'Life in the Bushes,' "Anyone who has ever cruised in a park knows it can be a sexually exciting experience and tons of fun. But, there are some risks inherent in park sex. The reality is that, gay and bisexual men face greater risk of violence and harassment for doing what comes naturally to every community."

These anonymous homosexual encounters are recognized by the Centers for Disease Control as an increasing problem, "which can result in rapid and extensive transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)," The CDC also says the "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.

Erie County Council was warned several months ago of the dangers of the homosexual lifestyle as they listened to public commend as the debate over the addition of "sexual orientation" and "gender identity" to the Human Relations Ordinance took place. Yet the Council chose to vote 6-1 to pass the ordinance which also declares homosexuality as a "civil right." "We hate to say we told you so, but . . . . We'll let the increased incidences of homosexual activity in Scott Park speak for itself. Other parks and areas in Erie are listed on a gay pornographic website as good "cruising" locations. Perhaps now the Council will see that the ones who opposed the changes in the Human Relations Ordinance had the best for Erie County in mind," Gramley said.

Unfortunately for Erie County the ordinance is in effect and, as is evidenced by Scott Park, there is a real public health threat to Erie County because of these large numbers of anonymous homosexual encounters.

"We can only hope that the residents and visitors of Erie County will be safe in the parks. Can families safely walk the trails or children use the public restrooms in the county parks without fear of encountering homosexual activity?" Gramley asked.

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NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 5, 2002

CONTACT: Diane Gramley: 1.814.432.5421

1.814.271.9078

Mayor John Street: 1.215.686.2181

PHILADELPHIA MAYOR URGED NOT TO APPEAL COURT'S RULING ON "LIFE PARTNERSHIPS"

(Philadelphia) -- Today a traditional values organization sent a statement to Philadelphia Mayor John Street urging him to reconsider yesterday's announcement that he would appeal the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania's ruling. On August 29 the Court overturned provisions of Bill No. 970750 of the Fair Practices Ordinance which redefined "Marital Status" to include "a Life Partner" by saying, "we hold that the City did indeed act beyond the scope of its power . . . and created for legal purposes a new relationship between same-sex persons that it categorized as begin part and parcel of the marital state."

Diane Gramley, President of The American Family Association of Northwestern PA (AFANWPA) said, "We applaud the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania for coming to the defense of marriage and reading Pennsylvania law correctly as it defines marriage as a 'civil contract by which one man and one woman take each other for husband and wife.' Mayor Street appears to have given in to pressure from homosexual activists groups who want to redefine marriage to include same sex relationships."

The Court recognized that the very definition of "Life Partnerships" in the Bill was an attempt to put same sex partnerships on the same plain as marriage. The definition included:

o must be 18 years old

o not related to the other Life Partner by blood in any way which would prohibit marriage in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

o the sole Life Partner of the other person

o have not been a member of a different Life Partnership for the past twelve months (unless it ended in death)

o agree to share the common necessities of life and to be responsible for each other's common welfare

o share at least one residence with the other Life Partner

o Agree under penalty of law to notify the (Philadelphia) Commission (on Human Relations) of any change in the status of the Life Partnership

(Emphasis added in Senior Judge Joseph T. Doyle's opinion)

Court's Opinion

A "Life Partnership" was only recognized by the City after a Verification Statement was filed. Provisions in Bill No. 970750 also allowed for termination of the " Life Partnership" by filing a sworn Termination Statement. The Court recognized the similarity between "Verification Statement" and marriage license and "Termination Statement" and divorce decree.

These were guiding factors for the Court in determining the city's attempt "to circumvent the Marriage Law when it specifically categorized the Life Partner relationship between a same-sex couple as a type of marital status."

The Commonwealth Court concluded that the City of Philadelphia had overstepped its authority in creating the "Life Partnerships" and trying to redefine marriage because the Pennsylvania Constitution nor its home rule legislation gave the City the power to do so. Article IX, Section 2 of the PA Constitution states: "A municipality which has a home rule charter may exercise any power or perform any function not denied by this Constitution, by its home rule charter or by the General Assembly at any time."

"The right has been wronged in Philadelphia when it comes to the redefinition of marriage. Marriage and families need to be strengthened not torn down by far-reaching laws that seek to destroy the very foundations of our Commonwealth. We strongly encourage Mayor Street, as a man of faith, to again read the Seventh-day Adventists Position Statement on Homosexuality which was voted during the Annual Council of the General Conference Executive Committee on October 3, 1999. There is no doubt where the Church stands and we urge the mayor to take the same stand. The citizens of Philadelphia are depending on his strong stand in support of the tradition family," Gramley added.

"Seventh-day Adventists believe that sexual intimacy belongs only within the marital relationship of a man and a woman. This was the design established by God from Creation . . . . The Bible makes no accommodation for homosexual activity or relationships. Sexual acts outside the circle of a heterosexual marriage are forbidden."

Adventists' Beliefs

Below is the statement sent to Mayor Street:

Dear Mayor Street:

As a pro-family organization involved in many issues around the state, we urge you to reconsider your plans to appeal the Commonwealth Court of PA's decision to strike down the City of Philadelphia's Bill No. 970750 which amended the Fair Practices Ordinance and changed the definition of "Marital Status" to include "Life Partners." In appealing such a decision, you will further undermine the institution of marriage which is already under constant attack. Traditional marriage and families are the very bedrock upon which a state or nation survives.

Your announced decision yesterday to appeal the court's decision indicates support for a very destructive lifestyle.

Some items to consider:

o The N.E. 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 men who engage in homosexual behavior shorten their lives by up to 20 years. Homosexual activity is up to three times deadlier than smoking.

o The lesser threat is condemned and restricted, why should the City of Philadelphia approve ordinances that endorse the greater threat?

o Other health risks of this destructive lifestyle include increased risk of HIV/AIDS and anal cancer for gay men

o and a greater risk of bacterial vaginosis, breast cancer, and ovarian cancer in lesbians.

o Drug, alcohol, and tobacco abuse are more common among homosexuals

o and domestic violence is very prevalent in the homosexual lifestyle.

This lists includes only a few risks of this destructive behavior.

Again, please reconsider your endorsement of this lifestyle and do not appeal. Philadelphia needs a mayor who is concerned with strengthening families and not undermining them.

Diane Gramley

President

________________________________

end statement

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NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 22, 2002

CONTACT Diane Gramley 1.814.271.9078

1.814.432.5421

PRO-FAMILY GROUP SAYS GAY ADOPTION IS NOT WHAT IS BEST FOR CHILDREN

(Harrisburg, PA) -- Today a pro-family group confronted the real issue of gay adoption and asked the all-important question -- "What is in the best interest of the children of Pennsylvania?" Tuesday's PA Supreme Court decision to "remand to the respective trial court for evidentiary hearings" to determine whether, in the Erie and Lancaster cases, the relinquishment of parental rights requirement will be fulfilled or is unnecessary was not what is best for children in Pennsylvania. "The Courts need to realize that children need a mother and a father in their lives. Children are learning at the earliest age, by sheer experience, that men and women deal with life differently. This diversity alone provides children with a broader and richer view of contrasting relational interactions," said Diane Gramley president of the American Family Association of Northwestern PA.

Erik Erikson, a pioneer in the world of child psychology, explained in Kyle D. Pruett's book The Nurturing Father that father love and mother love are qualitatively different kinds of love. Fathers "love more dangerously" because their love is more "expectant, more instrumental" than a mother's love. A well-rounded child needs a mother and a father in their home.

"Children will be adversely affected by being raised in situations with same sex couples. Pediatricians are responding stongly against the American Academy of Pediatrics February announcement that children raised by homosexual couples fare as well as those raised by heterosexual parents. They know what the research really says and what is really best for children is not homosexual adoption." Gramley said.

Children adopted by homosexuals will face a myriad of unhealthy and unsafe situations that will affect them throughout their lives. Study after study show the negative impact of the homosexual lifestyle. The scientific fact is that children raised by adults involved in homosexual relationships are at dramatically higher risk of exposure to the multiple health hazards associated with homosexual behavior -- domestic violence, mental illness, serial promiscuity, substance abuse, life-threatening disease, and premature death.

"The probability of violence occurring in a gay couple is mathematically double the probability of that in a heterosexual couple," write editors of the National Lesbian & Gay Domestic Violence Network Newsletter.
The Journal of the American Medical Association reports that "people with same-sex sexual behavior are at greater risk for psychiatric disorders" including major depression and bipolar, obsessive-compulsive, and anxiety disorders.
The Medical Institute of Sexual Health reports that "significantly higher percentages of homosexual men and women abuse drugs, alcohol and tobacco than do heterosexuals."
The Institute 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."
Oxford University's International Journal of Epidemiology reports the cumulative effect: "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."

Is it healthy for children to be raised by adults whose behavior is characterized by the instability of serial promiscuity?

A Detroit homosexual columnist wrote that his latest sex partner "has not yet been ruined by all the heartache, lies, deceit, and game-playing that are the hallmark of gay relationships...A study I once read suggested that nine out of 10 gay men cheat on their lovers."
Homosexualities: A Study of Diversity among Men and Women found that among 574 individuals involved in homosexual behavior, 97 percent had had at least ten sex partners; 75 percent, at least a hundred; and 28 percent, at least a thousand.
The Center for Disease Control warns that men involved in homosexual behavior "have large numbers of anonymous partners, which can result in rapid, extensive transmission of sexually transmitted diseases."

How will being raised by adults involved in homosexual behavior affect the behavior of children themselves?

Associated Press reported last year that a "new study by University of Southern California sociologists says children with lesbian or gay parents...are probably more likely to explore homosexual activity themselves...(and) grow up to be more open to homoerotic relations."

In February, a British sociologist's review of 144 academic papers on homosexual parenting reported the same: "Children raised by gay couples will suffer serious problems in later life…The biggest investigation into same-sex parenting to be published in Europe claims children brought up by gay couples are more likely to experiment with homosexual behavior and be confused about their sexuality."

Thus, children raised by adults involved in homosexual behavior face not only second hand exposure to the health risks, but are more likely to suffer such hazards first hand by engaging in the same life-threatening behavior themselves.

Teens who model the homosexual behavior of their adopted "parents" face other risks.

A Harvard study of 4,000 high school students found that "gay-lesbian-bisexual youth…engage in twice the mean number of risk behaviors…(such as) using tobacco, marijuana, and cocaine before 13 years of age. Among sexual risk behaviors, sexual intercourse before 13 years of age, sexual intercourse with four or more partners...and sexual contact against one's will all were associated with GLB orientation."

The weight of evidence makes the issue clear:

"Do homosexual "rights" justify adopting children into households where they face dramatically higher risk of exposure to domestic violence, mental illness, life-threatening disease and premature death? That increase the chances they'll engage in life-threatening homosexual behavior themselves?" Gramley asked. "Again the question -- What is in the best interest of the children of Pennsylvania?"

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NEWS RELEASE