April 22, 2004 - Volume 2, Issue 15

Marriage Protection Petition Drive Advances
Volunteer Grassroots Organizers Still Needed

The battle for traditional marriage continues as Citizens for the Protection of Marriage forges ahead with a petition drive to place an amendment to the Michigan Constitution on the November ballot. The amendment would define the union of a man and a woman as the only legal basis for marriage in Michigan.

Training sessions for petition circulators continue to take place across the state. Click here to find out if there is a training session in your area. Petitions are available through the MFF office. Contact us at (517) 374-1171 or email, info@michiganfamily.org to obtain petitions.

Grassroots volunteers are still needed. The coalition is still looking for individuals to coordinate efforts in some counties. If you are interested in becoming a county coordinator, click here.

Michigan House Committee Approves Obscenity Resolution

The Michigan House Committee on Energy and Technology has passed a resolution introduced by Rep. Glenn Steil, Jr. urging the Federal Communications Commission to develop and enforce stronger measures to restrict indecency in radio and television broadcasting. The resolution came in the wake of hearings in Washington and the annual meeting of the National Association of Broadcasters. To view the resolution, click here.

Many Faith-Based Organizations Not Prepared for Effects of Internet Pornography

According to a recent article from the United Methodist Church (UMC) website, many churches and faith-based organizations are ill-equipped for dealing with the fallout from Internet pornography addiction. This form of sexual addiction is especially menacing because it often develops and exists in private with little or no fear of discovery. It is affecting many marital relationships both inside and outside the church.

The UMC is investigating the social and cultural effects of this relatively new form of sexual addiction. For more information, including links and information about organizations offering training for pastors and churches, click here.

"Green House Project" Comes to Michigan

A new, innovative plan for providing long-term care services is on its way to Michigan. Two Michigan nursing homes have signed on to implement the "Greenhouse Project" for providing long-term care.

The project is the brainchild of Bill Thomas, founder of the Eden Alternative. The basic concept is to provide a less institutionalized experience by surrounding residents with the comforts of home and the natural environment. For more information, click here.

Rally in Lansing to Oppose "Racinos"

Proposed legislation that would allow casino-type gambling at race tracks (so-called "racinos), is still under consideration by the Michigan Senate Gaming and Casino Oversight Committee. The horseracing industry is pushing for the legislation hoping to recoup profits lost to traditional casinos. The bill has already passed the Michigan House.

Opponents of the legislation are converging at the Capitol in Lansing on Wednesday, April 28. The committee is expected to meet that day and organizers wish to show strong opposition to the bill. For more information, click here.

Youth Rally Will Promote Abstinence

Michigan Family Forum is pleased to sponsor "Leading Edge – A Training Retreat for Peer Educators" being held at Michigan State University, June 16-18. The retreat will feature a keynote address by Miss America, Erika Harold.

Leading Edge’s purpose is to train teens to take the abstinence message to their schools and peers. Click here to view more information about the retreat. Group leaders can contact Dan Jarvis, dan@michiganfamily.org, for registration information.

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Forum Online

1003 N. Washington, P.O. Box 15216

Lansing, MI, 48901-5216

Phone: (517) 374-1171, Fax: (517) 374-6112

www.michiganfamily.org

Executive Director: Brad Snavely

Editor: Jon Stanton

Graphic Design: Beth Hafer

Questions? E-mail us: info@michiganfamily.org

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