Your Voice in Government

 

 

   HOME
   DONATE

   EMAIL ALERT

   SIGNUP

   ABOUT US
   LINKS

   VOTER

    REGISTRATION
   UNSUBSCRIBE
 

Where the Spirit of the Lord Is, There Is Liberty

It is America's birthday. Ours is the first nation whose birth certificate is also a great philosophical document. The Declaration of Independence was the inspiration for many other revolutions, but only the United States of America has succeeded these past two hundred and thirty-three years in bringing forth a "new order of the ages." America's experiment in ordered liberty is unique. Many countries have fought revolutions. Many have proclaimed the rights of man. But America has from the beginning acknowledged her liberties as a gracious endowment from a loving God.

The man who wrote that declaration was chosen for the task because his fellow members of the Continental Congress were impressed with his ability to write clearly and convincingly. Even earlier than 1776, young Thomas Jefferson had put the Americans' case well: "The God who gave us life gave us liberty. Can the liberties of a nation be secure when we have removed a conviction that these liberties are the gift of God?"

All too often today, we hear that we are the people we have been waiting for. We are told that we are the ones who will frame a newer, better America through the force of our own will and our own goodness. This is not what the Founders thought. They knew that each one of us could be corrupted by power. "If men were angels," wrote Thomas Jefferson's young friend, James Madison, "no government would be necessary." Still, with proper checks and balances, the Founders were willing to trust the American people more than they trusted kings and lords in a faraway capital city.

Tomorrow is the anniversary of that fateful declaration. In declaring our own independence, we were doing more than breaking away from England. We were breaking away from tyranny. We were breaking away from the idea that some men were fit to govern others without their consent. We broke the chains of dependency and servitude.

The great document we celebrate today inspired Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass in the fight to end slavery. It inspired Americans of the World War II generation to stand up against Nazi cruelty. It motivated Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to fight against segregation. In one hand, Dr. King held the Declaration. In the other, he held the Bible. "Let justice roll on like a river and righteousness like a never failing stream," he said in the prophetic words of Amos.

Dr. King did not see the need to separate his dedication to the Declaration of Independence from his devotion to God's Word. Neither do we. The atheizers of today would have us believe that there is a conflict between our God and our country. It is not so. Pray it will never be so.

When the President signs a Proclamation tomorrow, he will conclude with these words: "In the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third." This is no mere formula. It is a powerful acknowledgment that our liberties, our independence, and our very life as a people are dependent upon the power and might of the Lord. And "where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty." (2 Cor. 3:17)

God bless you all and God bless America.

Courtesy: Family Research Council

Marriage Amendments will be on the ballot in at least three states!

  

Despite the California Supreme Court's rogue decision to force homosexual "marriage" against the will of the people, (the state legislature passed a one-man one-woman bill in 1977, and over 60% of voters in the state ratified marriage as one-man, one-woman in 2000) at least three (3) states thus far, will allow voters to decide marriage for themselves this fall.  After the California decision, the Secretary of State certified a citizen's initiative defining marriage as one-man, one-woman in California, thus, voiding the rogue decision of the Court. 

 

Just last week, the Arizona State Senate by a 16-4 vote, entrusted the definition of marriage to the people. The Senate discussion was so heated on both sides that it went down in the record books as one of the longest sessions in the history of the Arizona legislature. For the pro-family groups watching this nail-biting exchange, it was a long day that ended in dramatic fashion when Senate President Tim Bee cast the final vote in favor of putting the referendum on the ballot.
 

Finally, the state of Florida has already approved its marriage protection amendment which will be voted in November as well.  In fact, national political observers have already stated that the outcome of the presidential contest could turn on the results of the marriage amendment in Florida, a key battleground state just like in Ohio in 2004. 

 

The reason we need statewide constitutional amendments to properly protect and define marriage is quite simple, homosexual extremists and corrupt judicial activists refuse to accept the will of the people.  Currently, forty-five (45) of our fifty (50) states or 90%, define marriage as one-man, one-woman and of those, thirty (30), or 60% percent have statewide constitutional amendments that protect marriage in addition to state laws. 

 

After this year's presidential elections on November 4th, at least three (3) more states will protect marriage in their state constitutions raising the total to thirty-three (33) states or a full two-thirds (66%) of the country!  This will prevent rogue state judges from redefining marriage!

Christian Ministry

Backs out of Deal with

Planned Parenthood!

 

Habitat for Humanity, a Christian ministry which among other worthwhile projects, builds homes for homeless, has backed out of a deal to partner with Planned Parenthood to build a new abortion clinic in Sarasota, Florida.  After a torrent of phone calls and e-mails, the board of directors for Habitat's Sarasota branch voted to "dissociate" itself from the project.  Habitat for Humanity issued the following statement:
 
 "Habitat for Humanity of Sarasota has declined a donation of land from Planned Parenthood, accepting the land would not be in the best interests of our ongoing work in the community, the families we seek to serve, or the broader Habitat for Humanity community."
 
Join us in sending notes of gratitude to Habitat for Humanity's national office at: www.habitat.org/cd/contact/general.aspx

Their leaders deserve to be applauded for doing the right thing!

Florida Attorney General

Asks California

Supreme Court to Delay Homosexual "Marriage"

 

The Christian Family Coalition announced that Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum filed documents urging the California Supreme Court to delay finalizing its ruling to legalize homosexual "marriage".

The attorney general said in court documents filed Thursday that the state of Florida has an interest in the case because we would have to determine if our state would recognize the marriage of homosexual residents who "wed" in California.

"We fully support the attorney general's position, we do have a vested interest in this case, although we also believe that Florida's Defense of Marriage Act is legally sufficient to protect our state, it is vital that we adopt the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment into our constitution in November", stated Anthony Verdugo, Founder and Executive Director, Christian Family Coalition.

The state of Florida is asking the court to stay its ruling until after the November election, when voters likely will decide whether to amend the state constitution to protect marriage as the union of marriage as one man and one woman.

A Turncoat "Republican" Mayor Backs Homosexual "Marriage" Despite Unanimous Community Opposition

 

Despite unanimous voter opposition, Miami-Dade "Strong Mayor" Carlos Alvarez, incredibly got on his knees for homosexual groups that forced the Board of County Commissioners to pass a so-called "Domestic Partners" ordinance granting marital benefits to unmarried sexual "partners" of county employees and creating a "registry" for these "partners," all at taxpayers expense.


The ordinance passed on May 20th 2008, creates a virtual "homosexual marriage" status in direct violation of Florida' Defense of Marriage Act, as well as squanders scarce taxpayer dollars just when the county is cutting at $240 million back on much-needed citizen services due to budgetary constraints.


Thousands of pro-family voters and dozens of human rights organizations asked Mayor Alvarez to veto the ordinance only to watch in utter disbelief as he completely ignored their pleas and openly violated the "Marriage Protection Pledge" he publicly signed on March 14, 2004, (please see attached) promising voters to protect the institution of marriage against so-called "civil unions" and/or "domestic partnerships."
According to the County's Communications Office, the voter-reaction tally was:


Phone calls:
Support the ordinance: 9
Against the ordinance: 970
 

Faxes:
Support the ordinance: 0
Against the ordinance: 800
 

E-mails:
Support the ordinance: 140
Against the ordinance: 971

 

"When a public official deliberately mocks the will of the people he undermines democracy and teaches public contempt for the rule of law," stated Anthony Verdugo, Executive Director, Christian Family Coalition (CFC), one of Florida's largest and most effective non-denominational Pro-Family, Pro-Life, Human Rights organization. The numbers the County made public are less than half of the voter contacts documented by CFC leaders, nevertheless they paint a picture of a Mayor dangerously disconnected from his constituents.
"Republican Mayor Alvarez vehemently campaigned for the "Strong Mayor" amendment to the county's charter because he said he wanted to be held "accountable" to the voters. Sadly, he has proven to be a weak, impostor mayor, rather than a strong, real one. We voted for a conservative Republican leader and got a liberal, spineless wimp instead," exclaimed Wendy Guzman, Human Rights chairman of the Republican National Forum, a Republican organization active in Miami-Dade.


TO REQUEST AN INTERVIEW or for more information, please call 305-222-8196.
FOR THE RECORD: The following County Commissioners voted to impose the so-called "Domestic Partners" (a.k.a. homosexual "marriage") ordinance on the citizens of Miami-Dade:


1. Bruno Barreiro, "Republican" Dist. 5
2. Rebeca Sosa, "Republican" Dist. 6
3. Carlos Gimenez, "Republican" Dist. 7
4. Barbara Jordan, Democrat Dist. 1
5. Audrey Edmonson, Democrat Dist. 3
6. Sally Heyman, Democrat Dist. 4
7. Katy Sorenson, Democrat Dist. 8
8. Dennis Moss, Democrat Dist. 9

Miami-Dade County Commission approves so-called "Domestic Partner Benefits" (homosexual "marriage") please urge Mayor Carlos Alvarez who signed Marriage Protection Pledge to veto legislation
 

Why is this email important to you? Mayor Carlos Alvarez signed a pledge to the families of Florida and all American people to protect marriage which includes invalidation of domestic partners. This will likely be the last Email Alert, our last chance, to stop the largest county in Florida from adopting what in effect is a same-sex marriage policy.


The Miami-Dade County Commission voted on May 20th at approximately 11:30 AM by an 8 to 4 vote (1 opposed vote was absent) to approve a Domestic Partners policy. The policy establishes an official county registry for same-sex partners in a similar manner to the county's marriage licensing. This will cost taxpayers over $50,000 per year to administrate. The policy subsidizes the health care insurance premium for same-sex partners of employees at an estimated cost of $2,200 per partner. This could cost taxpayers up $2 Million a year.

The Thomas More Law Center has reviewed the policy. Their legal team opines that the policy is in effect same-sex marriage in violation of the Florida Defense of Marriage Act.


Mayor Carlos Alvarez signed the Family Research Council "Marriage Protection Pledge" on March 14, 2004. The Pledge reads in part: "I, Carlos Alvarez, pledge to the families of the State of Florida, and all American people that I will protect the inviolable definition of marriage. I firmly believe ... the uniting of persons of the same or opposite sex in a civil union, domestic partnership or similar relationship shall not be valid or recognized with any legal benefits or privileges in the United States." Click here to see Mayor Alvarez's signed pledge.


Christian Family Coalition is calling on Mayor Carlos Alvarez to honor his commitment to protect marriage by vetoing the Domestic Partners policy. The county commission does not have the 9 votes required to override his veto.


We have prepared a message for you to send by email and fax calling upon Mayor Carlos Alvarez to stand by his pledge to protect marriage which specifically precludes domestic partnerships by vetoing the Domestic Partners policy of Miami-Dade County.

 

Please click here to send your message to Mayor Carlos Alvarez.

 

Also, please call Mayor Carlos Alvarez at (305) 375-5071.
Also, please forward this email to ALL your friends and family please take action first by sending your emails before forwarding this email.
 

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY COMMISSION Dade approves domestic-partner benefits A County Commission vote gives unmarried couples -- gay or straight -- the right to visit partners in jail or the hospital.

 

Posted on Wed, May. 21, 2008 BY MATTHEW I. PINZUR Related Content

Unmarried couples in Miami-Dade won the right to hospital and jail visitation on Tuesday, following an 8-4 vote by the County Commission, and county employees will be able to buy health coverage for their partners.

 

Couples will be able to register their partnerships with the county's Consumer Services Department by late August. The system is open to unmarried, nonrelated couples -- gay or straight -- who are at least 18 and live together.

 

`CORRECTING INJUSTICE'

''It's a matter of compassion, a matter of correcting an injustice, a matter of moving forward as a progressive county,'' said Commissioner Katy Sorenson.

 

County staff estimated 900 couples would file this year.

Those couples would have the same visitation rights as spouses in county healthcare facilities, jails and juvenile detention centers. They would have the same rights as spouses to visit a partner's children and parents.

 

For county workers, the option to buy health insurance would extend to their domestic partner and that partner's children.

 

The legislation is hardly revolutionary, mirroring years-old policies in Broward and Palm Beach county governments, the Miami-Dade and Broward school districts and some local municipalities. Couples who have a valid domestic partnership, civil union or similar arrangement from another government would automatically receive the rights in Miami-Dade.

 

''It's a long time coming,'' said Commission Chairman Bruno Barreiro. ``I support this as a proud Republican.''

 

One opponent, Commissioner Joe Martinez, said advocates were dancing around the real issue.

 

''This is about same-sex partners, period,'' he said. ``It's not about domestic partners -- call it what it is.''

 

Its passage had been widely expected, especially after an alternative version sputtered in committee last week. It was co-sponsored by Barreiro, Audrey Edmonson, Carlos Gimenez, Sally Heyman, Barbara Jordan and Sorenson. Dennis Moss and Rebeca Sosa also voted for it. Commissioner Javier Souto was absent.

Opponents, including a coalition of religious leaders, fought the proposal on moral and financial fronts. They said the county cannot afford the $2,200 it costs to subsidize insurance for each partner, the same it already spends on spouses.

 

The alternative plan would have covered both domestic partners and live-in relatives -- and therefore required more county subsidy.

Neither side could find any government that offers such a plan, and insurance experts said that lack of real-world experience would make it hard to determine the right price for premiums.

 

The alternative, sponsored by Martinez, José ''Pepe'' Diaz, Natacha Seijas and Dorrin Rolle, is not dead -- under direction from the commission, Mayor Carlos Alvarez's administration is studying it further.

REQUESTS REJECTED

Diaz -- who called the winning proposal ''reverse discrimination'' -- said the Christian Coalition's support for a plan that includes domestic partners was unprecedented. But the commission rejected his requests to add relatives to the plan or put off a vote until June.

''Once this passes, the other one will fail to pass,'' Martinez said of the domestic-partner policy. ``Everyone who's voting for it now will say it's no longer about compassion, it's about money.''

 

In a separate vote, the commission agreed to help Blue Cross and Blue Shield market a low-cost health insurance plan open to any county resident. The county would neither subsidize the plan nor profit from it, but required the insurance company to offer certain prices and coverage in exchange for its support.

 

The county will monitor who enrolls in the three-year pilot project and what impact it has on Miami-Dade's large uninsured population.

The plan still needs to clear several regulatory hurdles, and enrollment probably would not begin until early 2009.

 

''If it works the way I think it will, it could go nationwide,'' Martinez said.

Judge Roy Moore

Alabama Judge

Some of you may be wondering what Judge Roy Moore has been doing since he was removed from the bench for refusing to remove the Ten Commandments from his courtroom wall. Please read the poem he wrote. It's below his picture.

The following is a poem written by Judge Roy Moore from Alabama Judge Moore was sued by the ACLU for displaying the Ten Commandments in his courtroom foyer. He has been stripped of his judgeship and now they are trying to strip his right to practice law in Alabama! The judge's poem sums it up quite well.

America the beautiful,
Or so you used to be.
Land of the Pilgrims' pride;
I'm glad they'll never see.

Babies piled in dumpsters,
Abortion on demand,
Oh, sweet land of liberty;
Your house is on the sand.

Our children wander aimlessly
Poisoned by cocaine
Choosing to indulge their lusts,
When God has said abstain

From sea to shining sea,
Our Nation turns away
Fro m the teaching of God's love
And a need to always pray

We've kept God in our
Temples, how callous we have grown.
When earth is but His footstool,
And Heaven is His throne.

We've voted in a government
that's rotting at the core,
Appointing Godless Judges;
Who throw reason out the door,

Too soft to place a killer
In a well deserved tomb,
But brave enough to kill a baby
Before he leaves the womb.

You think that God's not
Angry, that our land's a moral slum?
How much longer will He wait
Before His judgment comes?

How are we to face our God,
From Whom we cannot hide?
What then is left for us to do,
But stem this evil tide?

If we who are His children,
Will humbly turn and pray;
Seek His holy face
And mend our evil way:

Then God will hear from Heaven;
And forgive us of our sins,
He'll heal our sickly land
And those who live within.

But, America the Beautiful,
If you don't - then you will see,
A sad but Holy God
Withdraw His hand from Thee.

~~Judge Roy Moore~~
This says it all. May we all forward this message and offer our prayers for Judge Moore to be blessed and for America to wake up and realize what we need to do to keep OUR America the Beautiful.

Pass this on and let's lift Judge Moore up in Prayer. He has stood firm and needs our support.
IN GOD WE TRUST!

Letter to the Editor, The Miami Herald
Posted on Tue, May. 13, 2008


The May 7 letter Fighting gay rights asks what I would respond if my children asked what I did with my life. My children have asked me this question, and I've answered that I lovingly work hard to protect and defend basic human rights, social justice, human dignity and equality for all members of our community.


What our opponents know all too well but refuse to acknowledge is that their domestic-partner proposal shamelessly discriminates against legitimate family members, both blood and legal relatives, by banning them from health-insurance coverage. So who is denying health insurance to whom?


Isn't it ironic that our opponents cloak themselves in the rhetoric of compassion, while their domestic-partner ordinance hatefully kicks legitimate family members to the curb? As for the phony hospital-visitation argument, it is deceitful of our opponents to say the domestic-partner ordinance is needed so that people can visit a loved one in the hospital, when they know the law allows us to designate anyone we chose to make medical decisions and visit us in the hospital if we are incapacitated?


Unlike our opponents, I take to heart and teach my children the wise words of Dr. Martin Luther King: ''Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.'' That's why I've devoted my life as a labor of love to our community's children, poor and elderly and working families.


ANTHONY VERDUGO, founder and executive director, Christian Family Coalition, Miami

CHRISTIAN FAMILY COALITION ANNOUNCES

 

The Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners wants to legalize homosexual “marriage” in

Miami-Dade County!

 

Join us at a “Rally For Marriage”

 

STEPHEN P. CLARK BUILDING LOCATED AT

111 N.W. 1ST ST. IN MIAMI

 

ON TUESDAY, MAY 20, 2008

8:00 A.M.

 

Let’s Rally Support For

 

Marriage As The Union Of Only One  Man and One Woman In Miami-Dade County!

CA Supreme Court Forces homosexual "Marriage" Against the Will of the People in California! 
May 15, 2008

Ruling Underscores importance of November's Ballot Initiative Protecting Marriage

The Christian Family Coalition calls upon the California Supreme Court to reconsider its decision overturning the definition of marriage as the union of a man and a woman, which was overwhelmingly adopted by over 60% percent of the state's voters in a 2000 referendum.

"It's a sad day in America when rogue courts overturn the will of the people of California, as expressed in Proposition 22" said Anthony Verdugo, Founder and Executive Director, Christian Family Coalition.  "These corrupt and unelected judges on the California Supreme Court have violated the separation of powers and assumed the powers of a legislative body by imposing homosexual "marriage" Even though in March, 2000, 62% of California voters spoke loud and clearly on the value of marriage when they approved Proposition 22, defining marriage as the union of one man and one woman".

"Since the courts cannot be trusted, and anticipating this ruling from a court of corrupt "justices" over 1.1 million Californians who signed petitions to get a constitutional amendment on the ballot this November, activist judges will not have the last word in California, voters will," said Anthony Verdugo, Founder and Executive Director, Christian Family Coalition.

WMCU-FM / WKCP UPDATE & ACTION ALERT

WMCU-FM

Trinity International Foundation (TIF) a subsidiary of Trinity International University (TIU) sold radio station WMCU/WKCP 89.7 FM for 20 million dollars to American Public Media Group (APMG). The FCC license has been transferred and the money has been paid to the college.

The Christian programming has been replaced with classical.

Many have sent email, Fax and letters complaining to the parent organizations of the former radio station which are Trinity International University (TIU) and The Evangelical Free Church of America (EFCA), but Trinity simply does not care about Christian Radio in South Florida. They made it plain and simple - They wanted the money not the radio ministry.

We are now asking those opposed to the sale of WMCU/WKCP to contact Bill McCollum, Attorney General of Florida. He has the authority to investigate and bring civil and criminal charges against TIF, TIU and APMG. Maybe if criminal charges are brought against the board of directors of these two parties the station can be returned to Christian programming.

This is urgent. Please email, call and Fax the Attorney General of Florida, Bill McCollum.

send email complaint

Make an online complaint - copy & paste text below

COMPLAINT against WMCU/WKCP/ Trinity International Foundation, Trinity International University and American Public Media Group. Please investigate for misrepresentation, fraud, conspiracy, and other wrongful conduct in operation of a Charitable Trust in Florida. We do not want the money proceeds from the sale of the radio station going to Illinois. Please take immediate action in civil and criminal court to reverse the sale and restore Christian Radio programming to South Florida.   

Sincerely,

=================

Mail and FAX complaints to:

Office of Attorney General
The Capitol PL-01
Tallahassee, FL
32399-1050

Email:  ag.mccollum@myfloridalegal.com

Phone: 850-414-3300 
Fax: 850-410-1630

Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum Recipient CFC 2008 Freedom of Speech Award!
 

On Saturday, April 19th, 2008, Florida's Attorney General Bill McCollum was the recipient of the Christian Family Coalition's 2008 Freedom of Speech Award. 

Last year, University of Florida College Republicans and UF Law School Republicans posted fliers headlined with "Radical Islam Wants You Dead" to advertise a Reitz Union showing of the movie "Obsession."  The fliers were reportedly torn down by "offended" Muslim students and even some professors.

Dr. Patricia Telles-Irvin, UF's Vice President of Student Affairs, sent out a mass email to all UF students critical of the language used in the fliers and even demanded an apology from the groups that posted them.

However, Florida's Attorney General Bill McCollum notified the University of Florida's president that the state would launch an investigation of the university's attempts to stifle the First Amendment Rights of students who promoted the documentary film on Radical Islam entitled "Obsession."

Thanks to Bill McCollum's bold stand against political correctness UF officials changed their position last night in an official mass email that recognized the First Amendment Rights of the students who promoted the film. 

"The state of Florida is truly blessed to have a man like Attorney General McCollum protecting and defending our First Amendment free speech rights", stated Anthony Verdugo, Founder and Executive Director, Christian Family Coalition.

We would also like to thank David Caton and the Florida Family Association for raising awareness of this issue and allowing us to use a portion of their e-mail above describing the situation. 

Click here to view photos of event

NFL Concedes to Pressure from CFC & Congress, Agrees to Allow Churches to View Super Bowl on Large-Screen TVs

After pressure from The Christian Family Coalition, other human rights organizations and members of Congress, the National Football League has announced that it will not object to live showings of future Super Bowls by religious organizations when such showings are free and on premises used by the religious organization on a routine and customary basis.

In a Feb. 19 letter to Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell stated that the league will not object to live showings of the Super Bowl by religious organizations, regardless of screen size, as long as the viewings are free and are on premises that the church uses on a routine and customary basis. The NFL intends to implement the policy starting with next year’s Super Bowl.

“This is a tremendous victory for the entire faith community, I’m glad to see the NFL change its policy,” said Anthony Verdugo, Founder and Executive Director, Christian Family Coalition.

The NFL’s policy came to light in early 2007 after NFL attorneys reportedly warned officials at Fall Creek Baptist Church in Indianapolis against hosting a “Super Bowl Bash” to which church members and guests were invited to watch Super Bowl XLI between the Indianapolis Colts and the Chicago Bears on a wall projector at the church.
 

According to media reports, NFL officials sent Fall Creek’s Pastor John D. Newland a letter demanding that the party be cancelled. Some of the things to which NFL attorneys objected were the church’s plan to charge partygoers a fee to attend; the church’s use of the words “Super Bowl” in its promotions; the church’s plan to use a projector to show the game on a 12-foot-wide screen; and the church’s plan to show a video in conjunction with the game highlighting the Christian testimonies of Colts coach Tony Dungy and Chicago Bears coach Lovie Smith.

Miami-Dade County Commissioners

Consider Domestic "Partner" Proposal

(a.k.a. Homosexual "Marriage")
 
Committee Vote on Proposal Postponed!
 
We are proud to report that the Economics Committee of the Miami-Dade County Commission postponed a public hearing and a vote on the domestic "partner" proposal which would give marriage benefits to the partners of the county's homosexual employees!
 
Recently, the Miami Herald newspaper reported that the Board of Miami-Dade County Commissioners are actually considering an ordinance that would force taxpayers to pay for marriage benefits to the partners of its homosexual employees. 
 
Here's how this is happening:
A small group of commissioners have secretly filed an ordinance that would create “domestic partner” benefits.  This means that if Tom and Jim live together, then the County will recognize them as “domestic partners” and they would be treated just like they were married!   If Jim moves out, then Tom will go ahead and sign up his next partner, and so on!
 
Since the news broke, the Christian Family Coalition has been leading the effort to STOP this proposal!  Thus far, we have informed thousands of voters through our television and radio outreach and generated hundreds of telephone calls and e-mails to Commissioners telling them to vote "NO".
 
We want to thank everyone who has responded to our e-mail alerts and urge you to continue communicating with your commissioners, we will be keeping you informed on the progress of our campaign to protect marriage in Miami-Dade County and throughout Florida as the union of only one man and one woman.

Florida Education Board votes to call Evolution "theory" and not "fact"

Victory Report!

The Florida Board of Education in Tallahassee voted by the slimmest of margins, 4-3, to teach evolution as scientific theory instead of scientific fact.

"Today's vote, demonstrates once again, the power of grassroots activists that can make the difference!" stated Anthony Verdugo, Founder and Executive Director, Christian Family Coalition.

Thank you for sending your emails to the Florida Board of Education.  You made a difference.

Florida Division of Elections Approves Marriage Protection Amendment!

During this past weekend, the Florida Division of Elections certified the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment to be placed on the November 4, 2008 General Election ballot.  The amendment was certified with 649,346 petitions or 38,337 more than the 611,009 required petitions. 

The Christian Family Coalition and the Florida Family Association collected a combined total of nearly 100,000 petition signatures.  Florida churches collected an additional 200,000 petitions.  Electronic phone calls to targeted voters funded by a $300,000 contribution from the Republican Party of Florida collected over 300,000 signatures. 

"Although our opponents will attempt to manipulate and misrepresent this issue as one of 'discrimination', Florida voters are smarter than that and will see the issue for what it really is, an opportunity for the people to properly define marriage as the union of one man and one woman in their state constitution" , stated Anthony Verdugo, Founder and Executive Director, Christian Family Coalition.

The Florida Marriage Protection Amendment reads:  "In as much as marriage is the legal union of only one man and one woman as husband and wife, no other legal union that is treated as marriage or the substantial equivalent thereof shall be valid or recognized."

2008

Voter Guides

Click to download voter guides in Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format.

2008 Presidential Preference Election Voter Guide

2008 Presidential Preference Election Voter Guide - Spanish

               Miami-Dade County, Florida early voting sites

2007 Accomplishments & Community Outreach Events

CFC files remaining petitions to place Florida Marriage Amendment on ballot!

The Christian Family Coalition announced that it has filed the remaining 3,300 petition signatures necessary to place the Florida Marriage Amendment on the November 2008 U.S. Presidential ballot. Christian Family Coalition filed approximately 50,000 petition signatures throughout the campaign.

CFC Successfully Defends Governor Crist Decision to Display Religious Symbol!

The Christian Family Coalition defended Florida Governor Charlie Crist from attacks by the "American Civil Liberties Union" ("ACLU") for properly displaying a mezuzah. The mezuzah was a gift from state Rep. Adam Hasner, R-Delray Beach, during a trade mission to Israel earlier this year.

CFC supporters file lawsuit to stop sale of WMCU / WKCP!

The Christian Family Coalition announced that its supporters filed a lawsuit in STATE CIRCUIT COURT in order to stop the unwarranted sale of radio station WMCU / WKCP. (This case is still on-going)

CFC Applauds Gov. Crist's office for renouncing meeting with extremist group!

Mr. George LeMieux, Chief of Staff for Florida Governor Charlie Crist renounced unfounded claims alleged by "Equality Florida" (homosexual extremist group). "Equality Florida" an extremist group sent out an email alert which claimed that they had met with the governor's office on September 11, 2007.

The email alleged that Governor Crist supported their version of a so-called "anti-bullying" bill that would give special rights to "gender identity" in government schools. The "gender identity" category includes transvestism. That means male students would have the full protection of Florida Statutes to cross dress while attending public schools. Their email also alleged that "Governor Crist pumped his fist in the air enthusiastically as he told them 'I'm with you! I'm with you!'"

For the last four (4) years, Christian Family Coalition has made it a priority to stop this so-called "anti-bullying" bill, thus far, all of our efforts have been successful.

Florida Governor Charlie Crist Vetoes SB 900 -Anti-Citizens Petition Bill!

On June 27th, Florida Governor Charlie Crist VETOED Senate Bill 900 which would have jeopardized the success of the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment.

Christian Family Coalition sent out an e-mail on June 19th, reporting that Florida Governor Charlie Crist was considering a bill (SB 900) that would severely restrict petition rights of Florida citizens and create an all out war by petition opponents.

Our Action Email Alert encouraged supporters to send emails urging Florida governor Charlie Crist to veto SB 900.

2007 Statewide Legislative Victory Breakfast Largest Ever!

On June 27th, the Christian Family Coalition held its largest ever Statewide Legislative Victory Breakfast, with over three-hundred (300) attendees!

American College of Pediatricians Joins CFC Campaign to Protect Abandoned/Orphaned Children!

This year, the Christian Family Coalition (CFC) leaders were personally invited to make a special presentation on Florida's constitutionally upheld law protecting abandoned/orphaned children from adoption by homosexuals at the annual board meeting of the American College of Pediatricians (ACP).

On April 28th, 2007, senior members of the CFC met with the board of the American College of Pediatricians and presented them with a report on the sinister efforts in Florida to abolish the legal protection of children from adoption by homosexuals.

At the meeting, CFC leaders shared the particular importance this issue holds for CFC's thousands of supporters as well as for Florida's abandoned/orphaned children who should not be handed over to individuals who are incapable of providing them with a healthy example of gender expression and identity. CFC also invited the ACP to officially join our campaign to protect abandoned/orphaned children in Florida from homosexual adoption.

Immediately after CFC's presentation, the board of the American College of Pediatricians unanimously accepted the invitation to join the Christian Family Coalition’s life saving campaign.

2007 Florida Legislative Update

Anti-Family Bills We Stopped!

SB 1156 by Rich /HB 1191 by Roberson - The Planned Parenthood Act

This is the second year that the Planned Parenthood Act was introduced in the Florida legislature. It called on the Department of Health to make information on so-called "family planning services" more accessible, required that emergency contraception be made available to all rape and incest survivors in emergency rooms, and required Florida schools to teach so-called "comprehensive" sex education curriculum WITHOUT parental consent. The bill passed out of only one Senate committee and was on the fast track but was stopped as soon the Christian Family Coalition became involved. Thanks to your phone calls and e-mails, the bill was stopped dead in its tracks!

SB 162 by Geller / HB 663 by Randolph - The "Safe Sex Indoctrination" Act

This legislation would have required schools that teach abstinence-only education or receive abstinence-only funding to inform parents what information their children are not receiving in the classroom, such as propaganda from Planned Parenthood and the National Organization for Women (NOW) on contraception and sexually transmitted infections. This bill was referred to several committees in the House and was passed by only one committee in the Senate. The bill never came up for a full House or Senate vote.

SB 86 by Fasano /HB 561 by Homan - HPV Vaccine Bill

A bill was introduced by Senator Fasano and Representative Homan that would severely undermined parental rights, by requiring the state to recommend, vaccinating middle school girls against the human papilloma virus (HPV), as well as distribute information about HPV to parents or guardians. This bill was successfully opposed by all pro-life, pro-family groups, including Christian Family coalition and as a result, passed one committee in the Senate and House, but then died in committee.

CFC Joins Federal Lawsuit Against the County Miami-Dade Violates Its Own Human Rights Ordinance Christians Persecuted in Their Own Homes

On Friday, February 19th, the Christian Family Coalition, one of Florida's largest and most effective non-denominational Pro-Family, Pro-Life, Human Rights organizations, joined attorneys with the Alliance Defense Fund in a federal anti-discrimination lawsuit against Miami-Dade County on behalf of two Christian groups.

The County demanded the groups purchase 2.5 acres of land just so they could meet for prayer and Bible study! Miami-Dade County officials slapped International Outreach Center (IOC) and Worldwide Agape Ministries with orders to cease and desist meeting unless they acquired the demanded acreage, even if only two or three people were in attendance.

According to the Latin American Missions, there are approximately 1,200 churches in Miami-Dade County. If each church has at least one home bible study a week, then there are literally thousands of hard-working, taxpaying citizens being discriminated against simply for practicing their faith in their own homes!," stated Christian Family Coalition Founder and Executive Director, Anthony Verdugo.

People can gather each week at someone's home to watch football, but they can't gather to read the Bible and pray without being forced to buy 2.5 acres of land. That strikes most people as ridiculous said ADF Senior Legal Counsel Joel Oster. It is unconstitutional for the county to bully these ministries when there is no minimum acreage requirement for other assembly-use businesses, such as pool halls, theaters, convention centers, and private clubs."

CFC leads efforts to STOP domestic partner benefits in Miami-Dade County!

According to the Mayor's office, since this story was reported, in only ten days, nearly one thousand pro-family citizens called or e-mailed the Mayor expressing their discontent and asking him to honor his pledge. As a result, Alvarez has now requested a meeting with the leading pastors in Miami-Dade County and backed down from his efforts to promote “domestic partner benefits” in our community.

Florida State Senate President Rejects Attempts to Advance Homosexual Agenda!

After several weeks of behind-the-scenes lobbying by the Christian Family Coalition and the Florida Family Association, Florida State Senate President Ken Pruitt has rejected a proposed change to the "Gubernatorial Appointment Biographical Questionnaire" which contained the following NEW question:

14. Have you ever been the subject of a complaint or investigation that included allegations that you discriminated against or harassed someone in the workplace, including but not limited to: sexual harassment, or discrimination based on color, race, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, familial status, marital status, or sexual orientation ? If "Yes," explain:

The inclusion of the "sexual orientation" category meant that if homosexual extremists had ever filed a complaint or lawsuit against a person who opposed the radical homosexual agenda that person could be disqualified from consideration for a job in the new governor's administration.

In other words, if you are a devout Christian who had ever opposed the radical homosexual agenda, you would not need to apply for a job with the administration of the new Governor.

If this rule of questioning had been approved for the Florida Governor's administration by a Republican controlled Florida Senate, what could have been next, adding "sexual orientation" to the Florida Civil Rights Act thereby creating a gay rights law?

Governor Crist response to emails about his decision to Constitutionally Display Religious Symbol on His Office Door!

Thank you for contacting Governor Charlie Crist.  The Governor appreciates your concerns about the Mezuzah, a Jewish religious symbol, hanging in his office.  The Governor asked me to respond on his behalf.

Governor Crist believes that the freedoms and ideals that make our country great are the same ideals that people all over world seek daily.  The Governor is honored to display a Mezuzah on his office door and believes the freedom to display religious symbols is just as fundamental as being able to practice one's religious beliefs.

Governor Crist appreciates your kind comments and support.  Please do not hesitate to contact the Governor's office in the future to share your concerns and ideas about issues that are important to you.

Sincerely,

Warren Davis
Office of Citizen Services

CFC Defends Governor Crist Decision to Constitutionally Display Religious Symbol on His Office Door!

The Christian Family Coalition defended Florida Governor Charlie Crist from attacks by the "American Civil Liberties Union" ("ACLU") for properly displaying a mezuzah. The mezuzah was a gift from state Rep. Adam Hasner, R-Delray Beach, during a trade mission to Israel earlier this year.


According to Jewish custom, it is believed every mezuzah that is displayed adds to the divine protection of the people of the house and contains the text of two prayers the Shema and Veahavta written on a parchment scroll and attached to the threshold of a room, building or home as a blessing. The word is Hebrew for "doorpost."
 
"The hate and hypocrisy of the ACLU knows no end, it is amazing how in the 21st century extremist groups such as this one, still have any support.  The constitution is clear, our country was founded on freedom of religion, not freedom from religion.  Furthermore, it is ironic how these extremists claim to support tolerance and diversity, however, their bigotry is on full display when it comes to any form of religious speech", stated Anthony Verdugo, Founder and Executive director, Christian Family Coalition.

CFC  supporters

file lawsuit to

stop sale of WMCU / WKCP!

 

The Christian Family Coalition announced that its supporters filed a lawsuit in STATE CIRCUIT COURT in order to stop the unwarranted sale of radio station WMCU / WKCP. 

"We commend these individuals for standing in the gap for our community in filing this lawsuit, we believe numerous violations have been committed in the transaction of this sale and we intend to prove it both in a court of law and in the court of public opinion" stated Anthony Verdugo, Founder and Executive Director, Christian Family Coalition.

"Finally, our deepest gratitude to John Svadbik, who assisted in preparing the paperwork for the lawsuit and Alexander Alfano, our attorney on this case", concluded Verdugo.

TAKE ACTION LINK

For over thirty-five (35) years, Christians throughout Florida and the nation, young and old alike have freely and sacrificially donated their hard-earned money to the on-going mission of WMCU Christian radio to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ to a lost and dying world!

However, recently the Board of Regents of Trinity International University, whom we entrusted with WMCU, have reported that in 2006, they secretly contracted a broker to look for buyers for our beloved station! 

Then, on September 25, 2007, to everyone's shock and dismay, American Public Media Group (APMG), the parent company of Minnesota Public Radio (MPR), announced the purchase of WMCU 89.7 FM, a 24 hour, 100K watt listener-supported Christian radio station that broadcasts to the Miami-Dade and Broward county areas in Florida with a translator station in downtown West Palm Beach at 101.9 FM.

The reported purchase price is $20 million!

CFC Applauds Governor Crist's office for renouncing meeting with extremist group!

Mr. George LeMieux, Chief of Staff for Florida Governor Charlie Crist renounced unfounded claims alleged by "Equality Florida" (homosexual extremist group).  "Equality Florida" an extremist group sent out an email alert which claimed that they had met with the governor's office on September 11, 2007. 
 
The email alleged that Governor Crist supported their version of a so-called "anti-bullying" bill that would give special rights to "gender identity" in government schools.  The "gender identity" category includes transvestism.   That means male students would have the full protection of Florida Statutes to cross dress while attending public schools.  Their email also alleged that "Governor Crist pumped his fist in the air enthusiastically as he told them 'I'm with you! I'm with you!'"
 
For the last four (4) years, Christian Family Coalition has made it a priority to stop this so-called "anti-bullying" bill, thus far, all of our efforts have been successful. 
 
George LeMieux, Chief of Staff for Florida Governor Charlie Crist recently sent emails which stated: "Neither the Governor nor I met with this group, and no such statement was made."
 
We are extremely pleased that the governor's office issued this renouncement.  Thanks to your continued support, the governor's office publicly renounced Equality Florida's allegations.

Florida Governor

Charlie Crist Vetoes
SB 900 -Anti-Citizens Petition Bill!

On June 27th, Florida Governor Charlie Crist VETOED Senate Bill 900 which would have jeopardized the success of the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment.

Christian Family Coalition sent out an e-mail on June 19th, reporting that Florida Governor Charlie Crist was considering a bill (SB 900) that would severely restrict petition rights of Florida citizens and create an all out war by petition opponents.

For example, the bill would have prohibited supervisors of elections from verifying a petition signature if the petition was received more than thirty (30) days after the date the citizen signed the petition.

Secondly,  SB 900 would have required supervisors of elections to provide forms to voters to revoke and remove their names as a petition signer for one hundred twenty (120) days after the date their petition was verified.

Thirdly, the Florida legislature wants to reduce the life of a petition by NINETY EIGHT percent (98%) from 1,460 days to 30 days.

Finally, the bill would have grossly broadened the powers of the Florida legislature that would have had no limit on how long they would have taken to approve an amendment resolution.

Our Action Email Alert encouraged supporters to send emails urging Florida governor Charlie Crist to veto SB 900.  Thanks in part to the strong response to this Action Email Alert and the efforts of other pro-family organizations, Governor Crist vetoed SB 900.

CFC hails Florida State Senate for passage of
property tax cut

Families are suffering under the weight of a crushing property tax burden on their primary homes and that is just not right. If it means local governments have to make certain cuts to balance their budget just like Florida's families have to balance their budgets every month, then so be it.

CLICK HERE FOR Common property-tax cut questions

American College of Pediatricians
Joins CFC
 Campaign to Protect Abandoned/Orphaned Children!

A Labor of Love on Behalf of Florida's Abandoned / Orphaned Children

Recently, Christian Family Coalition (CFC) leaders were personally invited to make a special presentation on Florida's constitutionally upheld law protecting abandoned/orphaned children from adoption by homosexuals at the annual board meeting of the American College of Pediatricians (ACP).

On April 28th, 2007, senior members of the CFC met with the board of the American College of Pediatricians and presented them with a report on the sinister efforts in Florida to abolish the legal protection of children from adoption by homosexuals.

At the meeting, CFC leaders shared the particular importance this issue holds for CFC's thousands of supporters as well as for Florida's abandoned/orphaned children who should not be handed over to individuals who are incapable of providing them with a healthy example of gender expression and identity. CFC also invited the ACP to officially join our campaign to protect abandoned/orphaned children in Florida from homosexual adoption.

Immediately after CFC's presentation, the board of the American College of Pediatricians unanimously accepted the invitation to join the Christian Family Coalition’s life saving campaign.

Thus, over the next year, CFC and ACP, will work hand in hand in developing a series of effective strategies to educate legislators and the public, and counter the destructive efforts of homosexual groups attempting to impose homosexual adoption on Florida's abandoned/orphaned children!

A very special thanks goes to distinguished ACP member Dr. Felipe Vizcarrondo who helped arrange this unprecedented collaborative venture!

FL State Senate Committee Approves CFC Pro-Life Bill!

 

Your telephone calls and e-mails worked again!

The Senate Judiciary Committee in Tallahassee passed Senate Bill 1602, the Abortion Parental Notice Bill by a margin of 7-4. Additionally, both Senators Villalobos and Saunders who were targeted with your phone calls and e-mails both voted "YES" on the bill.

"We applaud the members of the Judiciary Committee who voted "YES" on SB-1602 when it comes to the health of our daughters, it is only sensible, that we make certain that they are not terminating their pregnancy due to intimidation or undue influence", stated Anthony Verdugo, Founder and Executive Director, Christian Family Coalition.

U.S. Supreme Court Ruling on Partial Birth Abortion

In a historic victory for the pro-Life values of the vast  majority of Americans, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled today that the law Congress passed in 2003 protecting America's unborn children from the heinous crime of partial birth abortion, IS CONSTITUTIONAL!

 "After more than ten years of passionate debate and numerous attempts by the American people through their Congressional representatives, the court finally got it right, and upheld the right of the people to protect our most vulnerable citizens from what essentially amounts to infanticide," stated Christian Family Coalition (CFC) Executive Director Anthony Verdugo.

 Upon learning of the Court's decision, Dr. Eladio Jose Armesto, publisher of El Nuevo Patria, the oldest and largest Hispanic weekly in South Florida commended the CFC for its courageous, pioneering efforts to bring partial birth abortion to the attention of all Americans, most especially our elected  officials.

 Finally, as many of you know, the CFC played a critical role in recent Supreme Court battles as a pivotal part of the prestigious Judicial Confirmation Network, founded by Jay Sekulow and former U.S. Attorney General Edwin  Meese, which paved the way for the U.S. Senate's confirmation of Chief Justice  Roberts and Justice Alito.

CFC Executive Director Quoted by Influential Organization

 The Christian Family Coalition's Executive Director, Anthony Verdugo, was  recently quoted by the Family Research Council, one of the most influential  pro-family organizations in Washington.
 
 The article, on the Family Research Council's website, reported on the  ongoing battle to protect orphaned children from homosexual adoption.  This  is yet another example of the increasing political clout that the Christian  Family Coalition has demonstrated.
 
 These victories are the result of years of hard work and grassroots  organizing on the part of Christian Family Coalition volunteers and the  generosity of its donors.
 
 It is critical to the pro-family movement in Florida that we maintain this  momentum and continue to build on these widely-recognized achievements as  reported by the Family Research Council.

CFC Joins Federal Lawsuit Against the County Miami-Dade Violates Its Own Human Rights Ordinance Christians Persecuted in Their Own Homes

On Friday, February 19th, the Christian Family Coalition, one of Florida's largest and most effective non-denominational Pro-Family, Pro-Life, Human Rights organizations, joined attorneys with the Alliance Defense Fund in a federal anti-discrimination lawsuit against Miami-Dade County on behalf of two Christian groups.

The County demanded the groups purchase 2.5 acres of land just so they could meet for prayer and Bible study! Miami-Dade County officials slapped International Outreach Center (IOC) and Worldwide Agape Ministries with orders to cease and desist meeting unless they acquired the demanded acreage, even if only two or three people were in attendance.

According to the Latin American Missions, there are approximately 1,200 churches in Miami-Dade County. If each church has at least one home bible study a week, then there are literally thousands of hard-working, taxpaying citizens being discriminated against simply for practicing their faith in their own homes!," stated Christian Family Coalition Founder and Executive Director, Anthony
Verdugo.

People can gather each week at someone's home to watch football, but they can't gather to read the Bible and pray without being forced to buy 2.5 acres of land. That strikes most people as ridiculous said ADF Senior Legal Counsel Joel Oster. It is unconstitutional for the county to bully these ministries when there is no minimum acreage requirement for other assembly-use businesses, such as pool halls, theaters, convention centers, and private clubs."

"It's incredible that in the year 2007, we must still fight for people's First Amendment right to practice their faith without interference from the government. We will stand side by side with these two plaintiffs until the County ceases and desists from practicing discrimination in violation of its own Anti-Discrimination Ordinance."

For more than 10 years, IOC has used its property as a meeting place for prayer, Bible study, discussion, and singing of religious songs. Last April 21, IOC received a county code violation notice demanding the group apply for a Certificate of Use. Officials then responded to IOC's application by demanding they purchase 2.5 acres of land or stop meeting.

Worldwide Agape Ministries, a small, home-based religious ministry that meets for prayer, Bible reading and discussion, and singing, received a cease and desist order from county zoning officials. The officials decreed that even a regular gathering of two to three people is prohibited unless the group acquires 2.5 acres of land.

A copy of the complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida in International Outreach Center v. Miami-Dade County is available at www.telladf.org/UserDocs/IOCComplaint.pdf.

The arbitrary limitations placed on these ministries are a major roadblock, particularly since land in South Florida is so expensive Oster said. County officials cannot be permitted to discriminate against citizens simply wanting to exercise their freedom of religion.

ADF is a legal alliance defending the right to hear and speak the Truth through strategy, training, funding, and litigation.

Nearly one thousand Christians express outrage against Mayor for breaking his promise to families!

The Christian Family Coalition, one of Florida's largest and most effective non-denominational Pro-Family, Pro-Life, Human Rights organization, reported to you that Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Alvarez had reneged on the Marriage Protection Pledge he signed while campaigning for your vote. To view a copy of the Marriage Protection Pledge he signed click here.

Brief Background:

- Miami Dade Mayor Carlos Alvarez signed Family Research Council's Marriage Protection Pledge on March 14, 2004 while on the campaign trail. His commitment to protect marriage was made public in pro-family voter guides during the 2004 elections.