AMERICAN FAMILY ASSOCIATION OF NORTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 11, 2003
CONTACT: Diane Gramley 1.814.271.9078 or 1.814.437.5355

Philadelphia) -- A statewide pro-family group finds it sadly ironic that the month of December started with World AIDS Day and Philadelphia beginning its three-year, $300,000 campaign to market itself as a 'gay-friendly' city. Now newly re-elected Mayor John Street has apparently jumped on the bandwagon and indicated that next month's mayoral inaugural celebration will also officially include a gala for area gays and transgendered. The mayor has just delivered another slap in the face to all in the City of Philadelphia who uphold traditional values.

"Mayor Street is continuing down the wrong path when it comes to the issue of homosexuality. Besides encouraging homosexual adoption, he obviously has no qualms having his city promoted as so-called 'gay-friendly.' Now his inauguration will include an official 'gay' gala. Philadelphia's already 'gay-friendliness' is costing it in lives and productivity lost to the AIDS epidemic" said Diane Gramley, president of the American Family Association of Pennsylvania (AFA of PA).

According to the Centers for Disease Control's (CDC) December 2001 report, in Pennsylvania the cumulative number of AIDS cases was 26,369. Of those cases 20,369 were in Philadelphia. Their report released last month states that as of December 2002 there are now 28,136 AIDS cases in Pennsylvania. These reports consistently show that the highest exposure category is for men who have sex with men.

Other concerns of the CDC include the rapidly increasing cases of syphilis in men who have sex with men. In a November 20, 2003 United Press International article states, "Syphilis rates rose dramatically for the second straight year in the United States, particularly among gay and bisexual men . . . rising by about 27 percent overall."

The efforts of promoting a 'gay-friendly' Philadelphia include advertising in homosexual magazines and on the Internet. Community Marketing, Inc., a San Francisco homosexual travel research group, commissioned by the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Group conducted a survey of 740 recent homosexual travelers to Philadelphia. Sixty-eight percent of those surveyed said they came for the city's fine arts attractions and history and culture attractions.

"Why is it necessary to promote Philadelphia as 'gay-friendly' when 68% of the homosexuals recently surveyed were not coming to Philadelphia for its homosexual events?" asked Gramley.

Continuing Gramley also pointed out the City of Philadelphia has been involved in many anti-family, anti-Boy Scout activities this past year and didn't need any further promotion as 'gay-friendly.' She particularly noted the following:

"Promoting Philadelphia as 'gay-friendly' is outrageous enough, but to take well-known people in our nation's history and make them appear accepting of the immorality of the homosexual lifestyle is beyond belief," Gramley declared.

"There is no doubt that the majority of our Founding Fathers were Christians who took strong stands for morality and decency. If they were alive today, they may well be considering it was time for another Revolution to reclaim this nation," concluded Gramley.

Quotes from Founding Father Samuel Adams include: "Religion and good morals are the only solid foundations of public liberty and happiness." "A general dissolution of the principles and manners will more surely overthrow the liberties of America than the whole force of a common enemy."

Charles Carroll, Signer of the Declaration of Independence, "Without morals a republic cannot subsist any length of time; they therefore who are decrying the Christian religion whose morality is so sublime and pure . . . are undermining the solid foundation of morals, the best security for the duration of free government."

Benjamin Franklin, "Only a virtuous people are capable of freedom. As nations become corrupt and vicious, they have more need of masters."

(Harrisburg) -- A Pennsylvania pro-family group responded to today's Massachusetts Supreme Court ruling that a ban on same-sex marriage was unconstitutional by issuing a statement accusing the state high court of destroying marriage and harming children. Diane Gramley, president of the American Family Association of PA (AFA of PA) said,

"The decision made in Massachusetts today will have a horrendous ripple effect throughout the country. Children are being given the message not only that 'gay is okay,' but gay marriage is on the same plain as heterosexual marriage. The very foundations of this nation are being undermined."

The Massachusetts Supreme Court decision seeks to validate a lifestyle that is proven to shorten the lives of men by up to 20 years. Those who engage in homosexual activity are more likely to also engage in other life-threatening activities such as alcohol and drug abuse. They have a greater chance of being exposed to HIV/AIDS and other STDs, anal and breast cancer, domestic violence, eating and psychological disorders. Why would the Massachusetts Supreme Court seek to encourage this destructive activity?

A recent poll released by the Pew Research Center for the People and the Press found that 59% of Americans opposed same-sex marriage. This percentage has grown from 53% when in mid-summer the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the Texas sodomy law.

"The majority of Americans know that marriage is between one man and one woman and don't want the courts to redefine it. They know that if the foundations of the nation crumble, the nation itself will fall," continued Gramley.

Homosexuality is not a civil right. This small group of about 3% of the population do not meet the criteria of a minority -- unchangeable characteristics such as skin color or nationality, political powerlessness or financial discrimination. Their apparent purpose is to redefine American thought and culture and to mold it into their image.

AFA of PA calls on both federal and state legislators to take every step possible to protect the institution of marriage as between one man and one woman and to stop any attempt to create counterfeit marriage through civil unions.

" The Puritans and Pilgrims who first settled in Massachusetts are rolling over in their graves today," Gramley concluded.

(Philadelphia) -- Fresh off the campaign trail and still weathering an FBI investigation Philadelphia Mayor John Street is once again encouraging those who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transsexual to adopt children through the City's Department of Human Services (DHS). Today the American Family Association of Pennsylvania (AFA of PA), a statewide traditional values group, sent statements to Mayor Street and the DHS voicing opposition to the continued plan of placing some of the most needy children in Philadelphia into situations that will further confuse them. "Studies show that children do best when raised in a family with a married mother and father. This helps them develop the right attitude towards their own sexuality as well as the opposite gender," said Diane Gramley president of AFA of PA.

This most recent meeting scheduled for Thursday, November 20 is a follow-up of a May 20 meeting also sponsored by the city's DHS. As in the May meeting there will be a screening of "Daddy & Papa." Gramley continued, "DHS Commissioner Alba Martinez and the so-called child welfare professionals who will be bringing the information during Thursday's meeting need to recheck their facts and truly do what is best for these children. Do not place them in situations with potentially devastating effects upon their well-being."

The American Family Association of Pennsylvania, in its concern for the welfare of children, brought the following information to the attention of the DHS Commissioners and Mayor John Street.

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

o 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.

o The Centers 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."

In addition, being raised by adults involved in homosexual behavior affect the behavior of children themselves.

o 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."

o In February 2002, 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. A Harvard study of 4,000 high school students also 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."

"Once again we strongly urge the mayor and DHS to stop using the tax dollars of Philadelphians who oppose adoption by homosexuals. Do what is best for these children and cancel the November 20 meeting. Use the tax dollars to promote adoption into a family that will truly give them a healthy attitude towards themselves and not further confuse them," Gramley said.

STATE REP AND MAYOR CHOSE TO UNDERMINE TRADITIONAL FAMILIES AND TURN THEIR BACK ON CONSTITUENTS

(Erie) -- Last year's Erie Pride Weekend organizers invited eighteen elected officials to speak, each of them made the right decision and declined the invitation. Unfortunately, this year State Representative Linda Bebko-Jones and Erie Mayor Rick Filippi chose to turn their backs on the majority of their constituents and promote a dangerous lifestyle instead. ''Apparently there are elected officials who still don't get it -- when they participate in so called gay pride events, they are participating in the efforts to undermine and redefine marriage and family," Diane Gramley director of the American Family Association of Pennsylvania said today.

This past weekend's Erie Pride Weekend was hosted by Trigon, the GLBT group from Penn State Behrend and Saturday's parade was co-hosted with the Erie/Crawford County PFLAG. "I'm sure both these organizations really believe they are doing what is best for the community, but the promotion of this unnatural lifestyle is destroying lives. If Trigon and PFLAG were really concerned with ones involved in the homosexual lifestyle or those who are supposedly struggling with their sexual identity, then they would be honest about the dangers." continued Gramley. Gramley 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:

This past spring Trigon sponsored the so-called Safe Sex Cabaret at Penn State Behrend. The approach was that of a "fun and safe" sex education class. Participants included drag queens, guys wearing dental dams as headbands, girls pouring chocolate syrup over themselves and phone sex skits. The evening ended with students parading in a sexy fashion show and condoms and lubrication being distributed. (source: February 8, 2003 edition of The Behrend Beacon) Was there education of the inefficiencies of condoms when it comes to STD prevention?

A look at some of the materials published by PFLAG and listed on their website also reveals the true nature of this organization.

Representative Bebko-Jones and Mayor Filippi's participation in Pride Weekend provides endorsement of the weekend's activities. It gives the message that they also endorse the tactics of Trigon and PFLAG. AFA of PA urges not only these elected officials but others who may be considering participation in such events to stop and think about the implications of their participation.

"Our concern is the message they are sending when promoting a lifestyle that is so dangerous. We are sure Representative Bebko-Jones and Mayor Filippi do not want the lives of anyone in Erie or the state shortened by their lifestyle choice and we hope that they will reconsider any future participation in events that promote such a lifestyle. We need politicians who will stand with and support the traditional family, not groups that want to redefine the historical definition of family and marriage," Gramley concluded.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 3, 2003

CONTACT: Diane Gramley 1.814.271.9078 or 1.814.437.5355

Bruce Clingan 1.724.964.8702

PRO-FAMILY GROUP ASKS WHY GOLF COURSE SUPPORTS SEXUALLY ORIENTED BUSINESS, IS THE MERCER COUNTY DA RESPONSIBLE?

(Pittsburgh) -- Today a pro-family organization expressed disbelief over the support of a sexually oriented business by what was thought to be a family-friendly golf course. "We have been contacted by numerous concerned citizens in the Pulaski area and they are all in shock that the Tanglewood Golf Course would host the 'First Annual Skinvitational' fundraiser for the Headliners Club located in Mercer County," Diane Gramley, director of the American Family Association of Pennsylvania (AFA of PA) said today.

In May, 67.3% of the voters of West Salem Township, Mercer County voted overwhelmingly to prohibit bottle clubs in their municipality, yet the Mercer County DA, James Epstein, has chosen to not uphold and enforce this law.

"Mr. Epstein has indicated that enforcing the bottle club law is not a high priority to him. As courts have found, sexually oriented businesses go hand in hand with illegal sexual activities and other crimes. The point is that his caseload, as a whole, would be lessened if he would enforce what he feels is an insignificant law," continued Gramley.

AFA of PA has contacted the owner of the Tanglewood Golf Course, Bruce Clingan, and expressed concerns about the planned activities. The communication listed some of the adverse side effects the courts acknowledge a sexually oriented business brings to a community. The list included:

"Our hope continues to be that Mr. Clingan will see that his decision to host this event is sending the wrong message to the families and other organizations that form the backbone of his business. His business is either a family-friendly business, or it's not -- there's no gray area when it comes to this issue. We also hold out hope that the Mercer County DA will stop picking and choosing which laws he will uphold. Our question is what is the next law he will choose to ignore?" Gramley concluded.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 8, 2003

CONTACT: Diane Gramley 1.814.271.9078 or 1.814.437.5355

TRADITIONAL VALUES GROUP SAYS PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES STRIKE OUT WITH GAY DAY

(Philadelphia) -- On Tuesday August 12, the Philadelphia Phillies Major League Team will host its first "Gay Community Day." A traditional values group has expressed outrage that an activity as 'American as apple pie' is being usurped by a group that is seeking normalization of their sexual activity.

http://abclocal.go.com/wpvi/sports/print_8703-philliesgay.html

"Families will take their children to Tuesday's baseball game for a good time, but instead they will be confronted with a 'Gay Community Day.' What type message is this giving the children attending? Those who engage in homosexual activity -- because this is what really defines a homosexual -- are using this in-your-face method to further seek acceptance of their unnatural and dangerous sexual behavior," Diane Gramley, director of the American Family Association of Pennsylvania said today.

AFA of PA finds it "interesting" that those involved in homosexual behavior are willing to support the Phillies through ticket purchases, while the Phillies in turn support the Boy Scouts through participation in the Scouts Explorers Program.

http://www.Philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/phi/community/phi_community_programs.jsp

"The question here is -- the Phillies have been involved with the Scouts since 1988, but didn't homosexual activists just convince the United Way of Southeastern PA to withhold funds for this very 'Learning for Life' Explorer program? So the Phillies support the Scouts on one hand, but on the other endorse those who are responsible for the Scouts losing a $400,000 grant. I'd call that somewhat double-handed," commented Gramley.

Stadium security is to be prepared to deal with so-called "anti-gay" bias, but perhaps they should be more prepared to deal with protecting the children who will be attending the game. Philadelphia is the site where earlier this year 11 homosexual men were arrested in the Strawbridge Department store in Center City for engaging in public sexual activity in the store restroom. Two of the witnesses to this activity were a young boy and his father who unsuspectingly walked into the restroom.

"Public homosexual activity is becoming an increasing problem across the state and parents need to be prepared to protect their children. The Centers for Disease Control recognizes that men who have sex with men have large numbers of anonymous partners thus resulting in the rapid transmission of HIV/AIDS and other STDs. This creates a real public health risk," continued Gramley.

The AFA of Pennsylvania is encouraging the Phillies to reconsider their decision to host "Gay Community Day." Most of their ticket sales come from traditional families and apparently the Phillies have chosen to turn their back on those very families which provide the backbone of their sales. Kathy Killian, the director of group sales, says if this "Gay Community Day" is a success then it may become an annual event.

"Ms. Killian says that what they've started is an open door policy. As a reminder -- that door swings both ways. As parents are fearful of taking their children to Disney World in June during Gay Days, will parents become fearful of bringing their children to Phillies baseball games? That's something the Phillies' sales office needs to think about long and hard," Gramley concluded.

(Philadelphia) -- The last day of July brought the decision by the United Way of Southeastern PA to withhold the second half of grants totaling more than $418,000 from two local Boy Scout councils. The Cradle of Liberty Boy Scout Council and the Chester County Council are the targets of pressure from the United Way attempting to force them to adhere to their pro-homosexual policies. "The United Way of Southeastern PA is in essence holding over 87,000 Boy Scouts hostage because of their demands on these two local councils. They're saying you change your policy and accept open homosexuals and you'll get the money. In essence the United Way is discriminating against the Boy Scouts. We are asking the United Way to look back on its 80-year history with the Scouts and stop its discriminatory practices. Help these local councils help these boys," Diane Gramley, director of the traditional values group the American Family Association of Pennsylvania, said today.

If the United Way of Southeastern Pennsylvania does not stop their demand that the Cradle of Liberty Scout Council and the Chester County Council include open homosexuals, the American Family Association of Pennsylvania is asking that concerned citizens stop giving to the United Way and give directly to the Boy Scout Councils.

"Individuals who are really concerned about the welfare of young men need to stop supporting organizations which discriminate against the Boy Scouts. It is unconscionable that the United Way is using financial pressure to try and force the Boy Scouts into becoming an organization fashioned by homosexual activists," stated Gramley.

The Boy Scouts policy is in place to protect from homosexual predators the young men who have been placed in their care. The U.S. Supreme Court upheld the Boy Scouts' right to choose who they want as leaders. The policy to prohibit homosexuals from being Scout leaders is in place because the National Office of the BSA recognizes the dangers of permitting homosexuals as scout leaders. "How many parents would want a man as a Girl Scout leader? With those same thoughts in mind, how many parents want a male who has sexual desires for other males to be in a position of leadership in their son's scout troop?" Gramley questioned. "Commonsense tells you the answer -- none."

Research scientist and professor of psychiatry Gene G. Abel, M.D., has conducted a study of non-incarcerated child sex offenders and has found that homosexuals "sexually molest young boys with an incidence that is occurring five times greater than the molestation of girls." More specifically, the report shows that, on average, 150.2 boys are molested per homosexual offender, whereas only 19.8 girls are molested per heterosexual offender. Homosexual offenders admitted between 23.4 and 281.7 acts of molesting boys.

"Dr. Abel's statistics are why the National Boy Scout Headquarters do no want policies which permit open homosexuals in leadership positions. What type organization would demand that the Scouts change policy and place these young men in potential danger? Apparently an organization such as the United Way of Southeastern PA which is more interested in being politically correct than in the welfare of little boys and young men," asserted Gramley.

WHY DOES GOVERNOR WANT MEN IN DRESSES WORKING IN STATE OFFICES, PRO-FAMILY GROUP ASKS

(Harrisburg) -- Today a pro-family organization voiced strong opposition to Governor Rendell's executive order which would add 'gender identity or expression' to state agencies' policies. "How is the governor defining 'gender identity or expression'? This phrase is so broad it will only open doors to disastrous situations. He is inviting men in dresses to work in state offices," commented Diane Gramley, director of the American Family Association of Pennsylvania.

The change is policy is so outrageous that even openly homosexual Congressman Barney Frank opposes such wording in federal laws because he has met radical transgender activists who will insist that men who think they are women be permitted to use the women's restroom and shower.

". . . . But 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," said Frank, citing the activists' handbook which states that a person's declared gender is the one by which he or she should be recognized. "There are no votes for that." LINK

The March 5, 2002 edition of the National Post reported that in British Columbia "A high-school student in the early stages of changing his sex has been granted permission to use the girls' washroom at his school, despite the objections of some parents."

Some legislators in Harrisburg have responded by expressing surprise in the governor's decision to issue the executive order. They have seen no evidence of discrimination concerning 'gender identity' in state government. Yet newly governor-appointed chair of the PA Human Rights Commission Stephen Glassman disagrees. Glassman, who is openly homosexual, states that there have been "several cases" of such discrimination.

In response to Glassman's assertions, Gramley stated, "Discrimination of any type should not be permitted, but we have to use some common sense. This year we have 'several' cases" of so-called discrimination concerning 'gender identity' and the result is an executive order from the governor. From July 2000 to June 2001 there were 19 confirmed cases of so-called hate crimes against homosexuals across the state -- these are PA Human Relations Commission statistics -- and homosexual activists push through the PA Hate Crimes Bill last year. Nineteen out of a total of 382 bias-related incidences. What's next?"

"What our governor has chosen to do by adding this terminology does in fact fly in the face of conventional norms and may place state employees in danger. I don't believe there are any female state employees who want a man dressed as a woman in their restroom or taking a shower with them, but this must now be permitted. The legislative process was circumvented, thus the fallout from this disastrous decision rests squarely on the shoulders of the governor," said Gramley

PENNSYLVANIA TRADITIONAL VALUES GROUP QUESTIONS WHY DISTRICT ATTORNEY REFUSES TO ADHERE TO THE WILL OF THE PEOPLE

(Mercer) -- During the May 20 primary the voters in West Salem Township, Mercer County, Pennsylvania overwhelmingly voted to prohibit bottle clubs in their township. A bottle club does not have a liquor license, but usually operates as a bring your own bottle establishment. Today, three days after the law went into effect, a statewide traditional values group questioned the apparent decision of the Mercer County District Attorney, James Epstein, to go against the will of the people and not proactively enforce the law.

"The citizens of West Salem Township made their voice heard loud and clear when 67.3% of the voters said we don't want this type business in our township. Now the DA decides this is not high priority for him. Perhaps he should listen to the people who helped put him in office. We know of other townships in Pennsylvania where bottle club referendums have worked. The question is what's wrong with Mr. Epstein," said Diane Gramley, director of the American Family Association of Pennsylvania.

In addition to the DA's lack of interest in enforcing the law, Christopher St. John, the township solicitor, has accused the ones who actively participated in gathering signatures on the petitions as making matters worse.

"What Mr. St. John has done is despicable in that he has publicly stated that people who are concerned with the well-being of their community are wrong. These concerned citizens have taken legal steps to prohibit this detrimental influence when their elected officials, apparently under the advisement of Mr. St. John, would not take action. They are to be praised not maligned," asserted Gramley.

"Mr. St. John has said since the Headliners Club, will no longer operate as a bottle club it can now have totally nude dancing. A situation Mr. St. John has failed to acknowledge is the fact that in the past this club has advertised as "Totally Nude BYOB". Were they openly advertising their illegal activity?" asked Gramley.

Sexually oriented businesses are recognized by the courts to have a negative impact on communities. Studies have indicated lowered property values, increased crime and blight, illegal sexual activity and an increase in sexually transmitted diseases go hand in hand with the presence of a sexually oriented business.

"The District Attorney needs to realize that these studies show there is a link between such businesses and serious crime. Perhaps his workload would be lessened, if he took care of what he considers a minor problem. It's like a cancer if it isn't addressed it will only get worse," Gramley said.

"The citizens of West Salem Township have chosen to address the cancer and no longer ignore it. But this situation does not just involve West Salem Township, but all of Mercer County. We have elected officials who believe they do not have to listen to the people who have put them in office. Perhaps this should be addressed during the next election cycle," concluded Gramley.

MILLCREEK TOWNSHIP SCHOOL DISTRICT POLICY CHANGES UNCONSTITUTIONAL, PRO-FAMILY GROUP SAYS

(Erie, PA) -- On May 27 the Millcreek Township School Board voted to amend their harassment policy to include 'sexual orientation' and 'gender identity.' During a July 17 public forum attended by over 40 concerned citizens, Diane Gramley director of the American Family Association of Pennsylvania stated that the policy changes were unconstitutional. Reading from a July 16th letter faxed by the American Family Association Center for Law and Policy (AFACLP) to Dr. Verel Salmon, superintendent of the Millcreek Township School District, "After careful review, the AFACLP has concluded that Millcreek Township School District's Harassment Regulation suffers serious constitutional defects. As an initial matter, it should be noted that no federal law or regulation requires Millcreek to adopt either this anti-harassment policy or the sexual orientation non-discrimination policy."

The policy change was brought about through pressure from McDowell High School's newly formed Gay Straight Alliance. It was part of the implementation of PFLAG's (Parents, Family, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) program "From Our House to the Schoolhouse." Gramley, who addressed the Millcreek School Board on May 21, said, "Our concern has been that the school board did not fully comprehend the ramifications of this policy change. To give some students special rights and privileges simply because of their sexual preferences infringes upon the rights of other students. We understand that the pink triangles, which are also a part of this program have been removed, that's a good first step. We are now asking that the school board reverse their May 27 decision and not include 'sexual orientation' and 'gender identity' in their harassment policy."

Presented during the May 27 meeting as reasons for Millcreek Township School District to change their harassment policy were a letter from the Philadelphia Office of Civil Rights (OCR) of the U.S. Department of Education and Presidential Executive Order No. 13160 of June 23, 2000. However, upon closer examination of these documents, the following was noted:

o The letter from the OCR is asking for a "review of grievance procedures used by many PA school districts to effectively handle complaints of sex discrimination and harassment under Title IX."

o Enclosed with the letter was "a procedure provided by the Virginia School Boards Association, 'Sexual Harassment/Harassment Based on Race, National Origin, Disability and Religion.'"

o Executive Order No. 13160 is a "Statement of policy on education programs and activities conducted by executive departments and agencies." Federally conducted education and training programs and activities are defined as "programs and activities conducted, operated, or undertaken by an executive department or agency."

"The ball is now 'in the court' of the Millcreek Township School District. AFA of Pennsylvania is asking the school board to take immediate steps to remedy the problem that has been created by the inclusion of "sexual orientation" and "gender identity in their harassment policy. For the well-being of all the students in the district, we ask that this be remedied before the next school year begins," stated Gramley.

(Harrisburg) -- Today a statewide traditional values group blasted Governor Ed Rendell for his appointment of Stephen Glassman to chair the PA Human Relations Commission. Glassman is also the co-chair of the homosexual special rights organization the Statewide Pennsylvania Rights Coalition. "All in Pennsylvania who uphold traditional values are shocked that the governor would 'sell us out' to a radical homosexual activist and we are asking that he rethink his decision. Glassman used his position as commissioner on the Human Relations Commission to further undermine Pennsylvania's traditional families by working to get the "Hate Crimes Bill" passed last year. Now this governor rewards him by giving him more power -- this is unconscionable," remarked Diane Gramley, director of the American Family Association of Pennsylvania.

The goal across the state has been to give special right to those who are engaged in a very destructive lifestyle. The effort has been portrayed as a fight to obtain civil rights for those with minority status, but the three requirements for a group of individuals to claim minority class status and special protection from discrimination has been consistently overlooked. The three requirements:

o financial discrimination resulting in the inability to earn an income, obtain an adequate education or enjoy cultural opportunities

According to a 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.

"This is not a civil rights issue, but Steve Glassman and other homosexual activists have hijacked the civil rights movement. There are no 'gay' or 'straight' water fountains, nor do those living in the homosexual lifestyle have to sit at the back of the bus. Even though homosexual activists and the mainstream media refuse to acknowledge it, there are thousands who have come out of the homosexual lifestyle -- no one is born gay," Gramley stated.

Governor Rendell's appointment of Glassman will further undermine the biological family in Pennsylvania and validate a very destructive lifestyle. Gramley 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:

(Philadelphia) -- In a statement released today a traditional values organization blasted the City of Philadelphia for its attempt to oust the Cradle of Liberty Scout Council from their headquarters. The City is attempting to either remove the Scouts from the property or begin charging them rent. "The City has permitted the Scouts to use this half acre of property rent-free since 1928, now under pressure from homosexual activists the City is reconsidering the three-quarters of a century agreement. This is unconscionable," American Family Association of Pennsylvania director, Diane Gramley said in a statement to Mayor John Street.

The recent addition of "sexual orientation" and "gender identity" to Philadelphia's Fair Practices Ordinance is what has brought about the re-evaluation of the City's relationship with the Cradle of Liberty Scout Council. "We continually warn municipalities that adding such terminology will directly affect the Boy Scout and other groups who cannot in good conscious permit homosexuals to be in leadership positions. Homosexual activists deny this will affect these groups, but the situation today shows that our word of warning should have been heeded," Gramley asserted.

The Cradle of Liberty Scout Council has been under intense pressure for the past several weeks to conform to what homosexual activists envision for the Boy Scouts. The U.S. Supreme Court upheld the Boy Scouts' (BSA) right to choose who they want as leaders. The policy to prohibit homosexuals from being Scout leaders is in place because the National Office of the BSA recognizes the dangers of permitting homosexuals as scout leaders. "How many parents would want a man as a Girl Scout leader? With those same thoughts in mind, how many parents want a male who has sexual desires for other males to be in a position of leadership in their son's scout troop?" Gramley questioned. "Commonsense tells you the answer -- none."

"We urge the Mayor and the entire City Council to do what is right for the Cradle of Liberty Scout Council and for the entire City of Philadelphia and support the Scouts right to choose who they want as leaders. The AFA urges them not to give in to homosexual activists who desire to remold the Scouts into an organization that would be detrimental to young men. Support the Boy Scouts and stand by the 75 year-old agreement," demanded Gramley.

SEXUAL PERVERSION OKAYED BY U.S. SUPREME COURT IN EFFORT TO FURTHER UNDERMINE AMERICAN TRADITIONAL VALUES

(Harrisburg) -- Today's decision by the U.S. Supreme Court will further undermine already hurting American families, a traditional values group declared. "Six extremist U.S. Supreme Court Justices have just thrown out states' rights to decide what is immoral sexual perversion. They have rewritten the Constitution to include a right to privacy that does not exist and declared war on America's traditional families and values. Homosexual activists will use this ruling to further their agenda," Diane Gramley, director of the American Family Association of Pennsylvania said.

Gramley continued, "Our U.S. Senator, Rick Santorum, has endured weeks of attack simply for speaking the truth. He knew, and AFA of Pennsylvania agrees with his statement, that the door will be swung wide open for laws against bigamy, prostitution and incest to be challenged if the Court overturned the Texas sodomy law. Already many homosexual activists argue that sexual relations with minors under the age of 14 that are deemed "consensual and harmless" should be considered as a 'gay rights issue,' and should not be prosecuted under the law. With today's decision, this could easily be considered a 'right to privacy."

The majority of Americans do not agree that homosexual sex should be protected under a constitutional right to privacy. In 1986 the Bowers v. Hardwick decision upheld laws against sodomy. Then Chief Justice Warren Burger wrote in his concurring opinion " in constitutional terms there is no such thing as a fundamental right to commit homosexual sodomy." Today's decision also threw out Chief Justice Burger's statement.

"What a difference seventeen years and changes in the make up of the Supreme Court makes. This highlights the importance of not having activist justices appointed to the bench. We need Supreme Court Justices who will uphold America's traditions and beliefs, who will defend traditional families and who will not view the Constitution as an ever changing document," stated Gramley.

"Today the U.S. Supreme Court declared sexual perversion as being protected under the Constitution by declaring there is a right to privacy to protect private, adult consensual sexual activity. Which are next to be struck down: prostitution, bigamy, incest? What further attack will the courts have on American's families and values?" Gramley asked.

This ruling strikes down the sodomy laws in thirteen states: Alabama, Florida, Idaho, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas, Utah and Virginia.

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 25, 2003
CONTACT: Diane Gramley 1.814.271.9078 or 1.814.437.5355
Pew President: Rebecca Rimel 215.575.4700

TRADITIONAL VALUES GROUP CONDEMNS PEW CHARITABLE TRUSTS, URGES UNITED WAY TO HOLD FAST

(Philadelphia) - Today in separate statements a statewide traditional values group condemned the Pew Charitable Trusts for pulling funds from the Cradle of Liberty Boy Scout Council, the third largest Boy Scout Council in the nation and urged the
United Way of Southeastern PA to continue its support of the Scouts.

"Withdrawing the $100,000 grant from the Cradle of Liberty Boy Scouts
reveals that the Pew Charitable Trusts is not really concerned about children. The
inner city children will be the ones hurt by pulling this grant and we
demand that Pew reverse their decision," Diane Gramley, director of the
American Family Association of Pennsylvania said in response to the
decision. "The Scouts' policy to ban homosexuals is in place to protect the
young men which have been placed in their care. The Scouts should be
applauded, not penalized for making the right decision."

Gramley continued, "Since the U.S. Supreme Court decision to uphold the
Scouts right to ban homosexuals from leadership positions, it appears that
the United Way of Southeastern PA has been under intense pressure from
homosexual activists groups to drop funding. We urge the United Way to do
what is right for the thousands of children who would be directly affected
by any such decision and maintain their support of the Scout."

Homosexual activists celebrated last month with the announcement that the
Cradle of Liberty Boy Scout Council had voted to go against Boy Scout of
America's (BSA) national policy and changed its non-discrimination policy to
include "sexual orientation." Due to pressure, the United Way of
Southeastern Pennsylvania organized talks that led to the change. Christine
James-Brown, president of the regional United Way, admits, "We did get some
pressure from other groups who said, 'This program (Learning for Life) may
not discriminate, but this organization does.'"

Announcement of the Cradle of Liberty's policy change brought a response
from the BSA that included the possible revocation of the local scout
council's charter. A recent press release listed on the BSA's website
states that "BSA members are free to hold their own opinions, but we ask
that they respect the values of the organization and abide by its policies,
which they have agreed to be becoming members."

http://www.scouting.org/media/press/030612/index.html

"AFA of Pennsylvania applauds the BSA for applying pressure to the Cradle of
Liberty Council which led to a statement affirming it will carry out all the
policies as set forth by the National Council. But in turn, we urge the
National Council to apply the same type pressure to councils around the
country which are not 'toeing the line' and are allowing homosexuals into
leadership positions. Case in point is the BSA's Lake Huron Area Council
(Midland, Michigan) where a prominent attorney and president of a statewide
homosexual activist group serves as a counselor and role model for the
council's "Learning for Life" program. Permitting this type situation is
courting disaster," Gramley asserts.

Since men who are "exclusively homosexual" - only 2 percent of the total
male population - are responsible for 21 percent of child molestation cases
involving little boys, this finding by one of the nation's leading experts
on pedophilia ( http://www.abelscreen.com/aboutasi.htm ) indicates that
exclusively homosexual men are ten times more likely per capita to molest
little boys than are other men. (The long discredited claim by homosexual
activists that homosexual men comprise 10 percent of the population would
still indicate that such men were twice as likely per capita to molest little boys.)

"The Boy Scouts' decision to ban homosexuals is the right decision for the
safety of the young men with whom they are entrusted. But our hopes are
that the National Council will require all its programs to enforce the BSA's
ban on homosexuals. The Pew Charitable Trusts and the United Way of
Southeastern PA now have a decision to make: side with an organization that
is striving nationally to protect children from sexual molestation or side
with those, who in many cases, argue that sexual relations with minors under
the age of 14 that are deemed "consensual and harmless" should be considered
as a 'gay rights issue,' and should not be prosecuted under the law. The
choice is theirs, we hope they make the right one," concluded Gramley.

ANTI-PORNOGRAPHY GROUP APPLAUDS U.S. SUPREME COURT FOR CORRECTING ERROR OF PA COURT

(Philadelphia) -- Yesterday's overwhelming decision by the U.S. Supreme Court will help protect children from exposure to Internet pornography. "Thanks to this decision a giant step forward has been taken in protecting children across the nation. Libraries that receive federal dollars will have to make the right choice for children and install filters or lose those dollars. We call on all Pennsylvania public libraries that do not already filter Internet access to do so immediately," American Family Association of Pennsylvania director, Diane Gramley, said.

In March 2001, with the help of the ACLU, the American Library Association, Planned Parenthood and safersex.org, among others, filed suit in the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals in Philadelphia. They claimed that requiring filters violated free speech and the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA), which was signed into law by President Bill Clinton on December 21, 2000, should be declared unconstitutional. In May 2002 the 3rd Circuit Court sided with the ALA and struck CIPA down. "How many children were needlessly exposed to Internet porn in their public library because the 3rd Circuit Court here in Pennsylvania made the wrong decision last year? The Court has confirmed that the government has a compelling interest in protecting children from Internet pornography. Those are not safe waters out there with as many as 200 new porn sites added to the Internet each day, our children need protecting and filters on library computers will go a long way in doing just that," continued Gramley.

Yesterday's Supreme Court ruling reinstated CIPA, which requires federally financed libraries to use filtering devices to block obscene material, child pornography and other sites that could be harmful to minors. The government argued that libraries do not have X-rated magazines and movies on their shelves, thus should not have to offer access to Internet pornography. Obviously, the Supreme Court justices agreed and did not view filters as a great burden on free speech.

The problem with Internet pornography in public libraries has even brought lawsuits from librarians who have charged that they were forced to work in a sexually hostile work environment. On May 24, 2001 the EEOC in Minneapolis determined that the Minneapolis Public Library violated Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and in March 2003 a federal lawsuit was filed by a dozen female employees of the library. They allege that the pornography freely available on the library computers is attracting hard-core male pornography users who act in a threatening and abusive manner. The male patrons publicly masturbate while viewing the pornographic websites and this has added to the hostile environment in which the female employees work.

The American Library Association has consistently attempted to block filters under the ruse of freedom of speech. The official ALA statement, "Access to Electronic Information," declares that libraries "must support access to information on all subjects that serve the needs or interests of each user, regardless of the user's age or the content of the material."

3/Statements_and_Policies/Intellectual_Freedom2/Interpretations/accesstoelectronic.pdf

Judith Krug of the ALA not only seems to feel that pornography is not harmful to children, but feels that reading Playboy should be an acceptable past time for children and states that parents who object "don't really care about their kids growing up and learning to think and explore."

"Yesterday's decision is landmark. Taxpayers no longer have to pay for the access of pornography at public libraries. Library patrons and employees will not be so readily exposed to the dangerous situations that pornography can create. Interesting that despite the ALA, a January 15, 2002 Library Journal's Budget Report found that 43% of the 355 libraries participating in the survey had filtered Internet use. The U.S. Supreme Court's decision yesterday will force the other public libraries in the nation to re-evaluate their policies and make the right decision for not only children, but all their patrons," stated Gramley.

(Franklin, PA) -- A traditional values group said that parents should be aware that same-sex couples plan on once again descending on Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio. The 'unofficial Gay Day' will be held on Fathers' Day as it has been for the past several years. The American Family Association of Pennsylvania today spoke with Robin Ennis of the Cedar Point Public Relations Department expressing concerns that parents would unwittingly attend with their children.

"Supposedly this day is chosen because there are fewer families there! But there will be families with children and parents will find themselves in the uncomfortable position of having to explain why men are holding hands and kissing other men and why women are doing the same with other women. Men dressed as women will also pose a problem. And what might children witness as they enter the public rest rooms? Once again unsuspecting parents will enter the park and be shocked by what they encounter," Diane Gramley, director of the American Family Association of Pennsylvania said.

Increased homosexual activity in the park will be a major concern for families. “Parents do not want to go for a fun-filled day at “the Best Amusement Park in the World” only to have it undermined by concerns about what their children are exposed to,” continued Gramley.

On June 17, 2001 during the ‘unofficial Gay Day’ at Cedar Point a man dressed as a woman was asked to leave the park. According to spokeswoman, Janice Witherow, the individual’s attire was against the park dress code policy. The dress code prohibits costumes and was adopted to address safety and security concerns. Witherow further says, “We need to be able to identify our guests should something happen, and we can’t allow one sex to be dressing up as another sex and entering restrooms where they’re not supposed to be.”

Homosexual activity increasingly goes hand in hand with public sexual activity. A recent article on a Canadian gay web site states that anyone cruising “in a park knows it can be a sexually exciting experience and tons of fun.” It goes on to acknowledge that this activity “comes naturally.” Dr. Tom Coates, director of the USCF AIDS Research Institute further states, “The whole idea of gay liberation is having sex with whom you want to have sex.” But the CDC sees anonymous homosexual activity as a major concern in the spread of HIV/AIDS and views it as a public health risk.

Increasingly across Pennsylvania and in other parts of the nation homosexual public sex has become a problem. Earlier this year 11 gay men were arrested for engaging in public sex in a restroom at Strawbridge Department store in Philadelphia. There have also been problems at Camp Hill Mall in Camp Hill, the Upper Main Line YMCA, Schenley Park in Pittsburgh and Scott Park in Erie to name only a few locations.

“We again urge Cedar Point to consider the traditional families which are the backbone of their business. They do not want their children exposed to this type activity. Cedar Point’s concern should be for the safety and well-being of families and children. AFA has already been contacted by several parents who have recently become aware of “Gay Day” on Father’s Day. They are extremely disappointed and have changed their plans. How many more families we will never hear from have done the same thing,” asked Gramley?

(Philadelphia) – One week after Temple University’s announcement that same sex partners of employees would be extended health benefits, the announcement was made that the university will play a major role in Equality Forum (formerly PrideFest America). Temple University will be the location of 35 of the 76 events which will take place from April 28 to May 4th. On May 3 Temple University will be the location of workshops that range from spirituality, queering the Bible to bondage, kinky sex and sado-masochism. The American Family Association of NW PA (AFANWPA), a traditional values group, has contacted Temple President David Adamany with their concerns. “It appears that Temple University has gone beyond extending health benefits to the same sex partners of employees to further advocating homosexuality. The Philadelphia Bondage Club, Matrix, and Ornery Women are invited to not only conduct discussions on bondage, sadomasochism and kinky sex for gay men and lesbians, but to provide live demonstrations. It is unbelievable that a university would allow groups that advocate such practices on their campus,” president of AFANWPA, Diane Gramley, said.

Another workshop extends the idea that abstinence education is physically and psychologically damaging to homosexual, bisexual, and transgender youth. The question arises as to whether the facts on the dangers for those who engage in homosexual activity will be given. “Will the participants be told of increased cases of AIDS, anal cancer and syphilis among men who have sex with men or that 1 in 3 homosexual men have genital human papillomavirus? Will they be told that condoms offer no protect from the human papillomavirus or will they be told the lie that safer sex practices will protect them?” asked Gramley.

“It appears that Temple University is on the road to allowing dangerous misinformation to be presented on their campus. An educational establishment must be concerned with the facts and present those without hesitation, to do otherwise may cause great harm to the students who have been entrusted to them. We call on President Adamany to step in and protect his students and the community,” Gramley said.

(Pittsburgh) -- The American Family Association of NW PA (AFANWPA) today expressed support for Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum. The senator has come under fire from pro-homosexual groups for comments reported by the Associated Press. "The majority of Pennsylvanians and Americans believe what Senator Santorum has expressed is true. If the U.S. Supreme Court strikes down Lawrence v. Texas, the door will be swung wide open for laws against bigamy, prostitution and incest to be challenged. We support him and his statement 100 percent," Diane Gramley, president of AFANWPA said.

The Human Rights Campaign, as well as Pennsylvania pro-homosexual groups the Center for Lesbian and Gay Civil Rights, OutFront, The Pennsylvania Gender Rights Coalition and Log Cabin Republicans have joined their voices demanding the senator's removal from GOP leadership. These groups have, in the past, called for 'tolerance.' Obviously, they define that term as total agreement with them or one is considered intolerant! "It seems that the ones who are crying 'tolerance' the loudest are the ones who are the most intolerant towards those who do not totally agree with them," continued Gramley.

"Senator Santorum has been a consistent defender of family values and those who believe the traditional family is the very foundation of a successful society call on the GOP leadership to turn a deaf ear to those calling for the senator's removal," said Gramley.

The Republican Party platform includes the defense of marriage. Unfortunately, last month's meeting with the Human Rights Campaign by RNC Chairman Mark Racicot made many Republicans question the par