Join Clergy for a Conservative Court

While most people will be focused on the Presidential election of 2008, there is another contest of critical importance for Michigan citizens - the Supreme Court. Although often overlooked, the Courts in America have been responsible for many damaging decisions including legalized abortion, the proliferation of obscenity and homosexual "marriage" just to name a few. That is precisely why we formed "Clergy for a Conservative Court."

Anyone can join this Clergy for Conservative Court coalition, not just ministers. Sign up for our weekly email to stay informed on this vital project!

Clergy for a Conservative Court Resources

Here are some great sources of news and information regarding the defense of traditional values in the judicial system. Both of these organizations are very active in protecting pro-life and pro-family values in courts across the nation. In Michigan, the Alliance Defense Fund recently stopped the city of Grand Rapids from using a local ordinance to prevent a group of Christians from publicly expressing a religious message at a city park. The American Center for Law and Justice contributed to the high-profile California appeals court decision to allow parents to homeschool their children, overturning a lower court ruling that prohibited homeschooling.

Pray For Your Leaders

Please use our updated prayer guide to pray for both CTV and our government and leaders.

Romney Abortion Stand Gives Pause

James Muffett, president of Citizens for Traditional Values, said members of his group "are spread out across the board" over the contenders for vice president. He met privately with McCain, during a recent Michigan visit by the candidate, to impress on him that he must choose an anti-abortion vice presidential candidate. (Continue Reading...)

Read James Muffett's full report on his meeting with John McCain.

GOP Names Picks for Michigan's Top Court

Michigan Republicans gathered in Novi on Saturday to nominate candidates for the state Supreme Court and the university and education boards. There were few surprises among those nominated, but the state convention allowed the GOP to hone the message they hope leads them to victory with U.S. Sen. John McCain as the Republican nominee for president all the way to the state House of Representatives and township boards. (Continue Reading...)

CTV will be exploring endorsements in some of the mentioned races over the next week. Please check back to CTV-PAC's endorsement page for updates.

James Muffett & CTV In the News

James has been quoted frequently over the last week about his recent meeting, along with other conservative Michigan leaders, with John McCain. Read here in James' own words his reaction to the meeting, and to find a list of recent news articles about the meeting, including some that quote Mr. Muffett.

Republican State Convention on Saturday

The Michigan Republican Party State Convention is taking place Saturday, August 23rd, at Rock Financial Showplace in Novi. Here is more information, including the schedule of events and speakers, list of candidates seeking nomination, and more.

Reform Michigan Government Now

Here is a collection of articles about the Reform Michigan Government Now proposal.

Memo pins reform proposal on Democrats
A screen shot of the PowerPoint presentation's second slide. The political pay cut in a sweeping ballot initiative written by the Michigan Democratic Party taps voter anger to deliver "Democratic control of state government" for the coming decade, an internal... (Continue Reading...)

Memo to the RMGN Proposal Backers ..as much as I would love to see Democrats in control of the House, Senate, Governor's Mansion, and state Supreme Court, I can't support a proposal that seeks to rig the system through our state's constitution. (Continue Reading...)

RGMN - Getting the Message Right (Part 1)
This is the first in a three post series. The regressive - and politically devious - proposal to radically rewrite Michigan's state constitution is mired in a soap-opera drama. The background details of the dishonest backers, the legal challenges along with the political future of this attempted constitutional hijacking have has been documented... (Continue Reading...)

RGMN - Getting the Message Right (Part 2)
As noted previously, the radicals behind this risky proposal will deceitfully focus on one or two selling points. This Trojan Horse packs a lot of hidden surprises. Let's dig into two areas of impact: 1) More Stolen Elections & Vote Fraud and 2) Faux Government Reform. (Continue Reading...)

RGMN - Getting the Message Right (Part 3)
As noted previously, the radicals behind this risky proposal will deceitfully focus on one or two selling points. This Trojan Horse packs a lot of hidden surprises. Let's dig into two areas of impact: 1) Democrat Gerrymandering and 2) Racist. (Continue Reading...)

Fight over Mich. ballot proposal shifts to court
Michigan election officials say supporters of a proposal that would change the size and makeup of state courts and the Legislature have gathered enough voter signatures to make the November ballot. That likely means the fight over the Reform Michigan Government Now proposal will shift to the Michigan Court of Appeals starting Tuesday afternoon. (Continue Reading...)

Proposal Off the Ballot
A Michigan Democratic Party drive to build political strength via constitutional amendment crashed and burned when a three-judge panel ordered elections officials to keep it off the November ballot. The panel said Wednesday that the Reform Michigan Government Now measure, supported by an estimated 415,000 valid signatures, was a general revision of the Michigan Constitution that could only be achieved through a constitutional convention, not a petition drive. (Continue Reading...)

Presidential Debate Details

The presidential campaigns issued a joint statement this morning, outlining the presidential debates. Dates of the debates are:
September 26 - First Debate
October 2 (Vice-Presidential Debate)
October 7 - Second Debate
October 15 - Third Debate

MI Supreme Court: The Finest Court in the Nation

Among the people recently mentioned as potential U.S. Supreme Court nominees, Maura Corrigan and Robert Young were relatively unknown. But both are noteworthy representatives of what may be the finest court in the nation. For the past six years, the Michigan Supreme Court has been a leader in attempting to restore a proper balance between the judiciary, the legislature and the people. (Continue Reading...)

US Congress Reintroduces Federal Marriage Amendment

A federal constitutional amendment has been reintroduced in both the U.S. House and Senate, which would state "Marriage in the United States shall consist only of the union of a man and a woman." Senator Roger Wicker [R-MS] introduced Joint Resolution 23. Representative Paul Broun [R-GA] introduced Joint Resolution 89 in the House. Both resolutions were referred to their respective Judiciary Committees on June 25th.

Gambling Expansion in Michigan Stopped

On Wednesday, June 25, by a vote of 298 to 121, the United States Congress turned down an initiative that would have allowed two new casinos in Southeast Michigan. The legislation would have permitted two Indian tribes to exchange land rights from the UP to Romulus and Port Huron. These cities are 350 miles from their tribal reservations. Opponents understood that this would only create an open door across the nation for Indian tribes to buy land anywhere in order to open a casino.

Michigan Congressman John Dingle (D) and Congresswoman Candice Miller (R) supported the effort, advocating that this would bring much needed jobs to Michigan. But on the other hand, Congressmen John Conyers, Jr (D) argued it would diminish the need for current job holders in the Detroit area. According to the Associated Press. Conyers and Kilpatrick were joined by the remainder of the state's Republican delegation except for Rep. Thaddeus McCotter of Livonia, who was traveling with President Bush on a fundraising visit to Michigan and did not vote.

CTV President James Muffett said: "We applaud this decision by the United State Congress! We understand the great need for jobs in this state, but do not believe gambling expansion is the way to tackle this challenge. Gambling is proven to be detrimental to Michigan families and communities and is an activity that should be discouraged, not increased."

Read more at the Detroit News.

2008 CTV-PAC Endorsements

The Citizens for Traditional Values Political Action Committee (CTV-PAC) is registered with the state of Michigan as an "Independent Committee" for the purpose of supporting candidates for political office. The CTV-PAC is a non-partisan, multi-issue, statewide committee representing conservative, pro-life, pro-family values.

All candidates endorsed by CTV-PAC must reflect basic pro-family values, which include but are not limited to: support for the sanctity of life, morality in public policy, educational freedom and a free enterprise philosophy.

See our 2008 endorsements for State Representative here. Endorsements for other offices will be announced shortly.

Partial Birth Abortion Ban Vetoed

On Friday, June 13th, Governor Granholm vetoed Senate Bill 776, which would have effectively banned partial-birth abortion in the state of Michigan. In defense of her act, Governor Granholm told Senate leaders:

"I will not support a late-term abortion ban that fails to protect both the life and health of mother. Medical professionals oppose this legislation because it does not contain valid exception for the health of the mother. They believe that medical decisions of this nature should be made by women and their doctors, not politicians. I agree."

This statement was made despite the fact that partial-birth abortion is never necessary to save the life of the mother. With the Governor’s veto confirmed, it makes the passage of HB 4613 crucial.

Taking into account a 2007 Supreme Court decision, House Bill 4613 is an updated version of the 2003 law that was passed over Governor Granholm’s veto. According to Representative DeRoche, a co-sponsor of the bill, "It differs only in procedure and rules of finding its way into law.” The bill also carries a key provision allowing a vote to override the governor’s veto.

You can read more about the bill here.

Stop Gambling Expansion in Michigan

ACTION ALERT:
Two U.S. House bills (2176 and 4115) are expected to finally be up for a vote within the next two weeks (early June). Michigan Congressmen Joe Knollenberg and Thad McCotter are being pressured to vote for this bill. Michigan already has 23 casinos, with more on the way; some have referred to us as the "Las Vegas of the North". Please contact Reps. Knollenberg and McCotter, as well as your own Congressman, and urge them to respect the intent of the voters of Michigan and say "NO" to this expansion of gambling in our state.

Read more about this legislation, its text, and why CTV opposes it.

Partial Birth Abortion Ban Passed by State House, Moves to Governor's Desk

ACTION ALERT:
Please begin NOW to mobilize your prolife friends to contact Governor Granholm's office immediately and ask her to sign Senate Bill 776 - the BAN on partial birth abortion - into law.

Read the good news from Right to Life of Michigan's website:

"On the evening of May 27, 2008, the Michigan House of Representatives voted 74-32 to pass S.B. 776, the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act. This legislation is modeled after the federal ban on partial-birth abortion and would make it a felony to perform a partial-birth abortion in Michigan. S.B. 776 was passed in the Michigan Senate by a vote of 24-13 in January of 2008."

"S.B. 776 will now be sent to Governor Granholm. Once it reaches her desk, she will have 14 days to either sign it, veto it, or allow it to take effect without her signature."

Contact Governor Jennifer Granholm
P.O. Box 30013
Lansing, MI 48909
Phone: (517) 373-3400 or (517) 335-7858
Fax: 517-335-6863

The job is not done - but we're making progress! So help make it law by contacting Governor Granholm today!

Read more about this legislation, and its text, and why CTV supports the ban on partial birth abortion.

All-American Tribute in Troy June 1st

You are invited to the "All-American Tribute: A Musical Celebration of Liberty", which will be performed at Zion Christian Church and will honor our nation's first responders and military personnel (active and veterans). The Tribute is a free event that will be performed on June 1, 2008, at 6:30 p.m. Zion Christian Church is located at 3668 Livernois, Troy, Michigan 48083. CTV President James Muffett will be speaking at the event.

There will also be Military, Fire, Police, Motorcycle, Classic Vehicles and other outside activities from approximately 3:00 p.m. until 6:30 p.m.

Additional details here and on Zion Christian Church's website.

Adult Stem Cell Treatments Working

In March, Andre Lampkin, 20, was facing the amputation of his legs and arms. But an experimental treatment using his own stem cells to stimulate tissue growth is giving the former L.D. Bell High School wide receiver hope after meningitis damaged his extremities. "It looks like we have already saved his legs and arms," [Dr. Zannos] Grekos said. "Now we're hoping to save most of each foot and his hands." (Continue Reading...)

Two-year-old Elio Burgos, who was born blind, is now able to see, thanks to a series of adult stem-cell treatments. (Continue Reading...)

Vote on Partial Birth Abortion Ban

Please call your State Representative and urge them to VOTE YES on SB 776, which should be on the House floor for a vote THIS WEEK. Please also contact Governor Granholm and urge her to sign this bill into law.

This bill, if passed, would penalize any doctor or individual that participates in a partial birth abortion that kills a baby. CTV supports this bill.

NOTE: The HOUSE is voting on a SENATE bill; please be aware to contact your HOUSE Representative about SENATE Bill 776.

CTV at INCH Homeschool Conference

CTV, along with our sister organization Student Statesmanship Institute, was present for the annual Information Network of Christian Homes (INCH) home school conference this past weekend downtown Lansing. This event draws a couple thousand home school leaders and families from all over Michigan. Mr. Muffett presented four sessions to approximately 250 people on Friday and Saturday on the Price of Educational Freedom and the importance of Preserving Your Freedom as home school families. He stressed that this upcoming election is critical for the involvement of the home school families if we want to see conservative leaders elected to represent our home school freedoms. The response was wonderful!

CTV also had the honor of hosting our second annual Leadership Reception for Michigan’s Legislators and Home School Leaders. This brief event provided an opportunity for activists to connect with legislators from their area and also hear from Senate Education Chair Wayne Kuipers and House Education Vice Chair John Moolenaar. They were able to express their appreciation for the home school movement but also encourage their continued participation in the process, especially when the conservative seats are in such danger in this upcoming election. Attendees also were privileged to hear from Chief Justice Cliff Taylor.

Pictured above, left to right: Sen. Wayne Kuipers (Chair Senate Education Committee), Cliff Taylor (MI Supreme Court Chief Justice), Dennis Smith (INCH Director), James Muffett (CTV President), Rep. John Moolenaar (Vice-Chair House Education Committee)

Patient's Own Stem Cells Provide Cure

Amy Daniels at the age of 37 was afflicted with scleroderma, a rare autoimmune disease with no known cure. Through the use of her own stem cells, Amy now has hope for a bright future. First her own stem cells were collected and stored. She was then given chemotherapy and medicine to wipe out her immune system. Her own stem cells were reinfused and began the healing process. Just 6 months after her transplant, Amy was able to go back to work. (Continue Reading...)

May 13th Filing Deadline for Precinct Delegates

May 13th is the filing deadline for anyone wishing to run for office, including precinct delegates. If you would like to be a precinct delegate, please contact us and we would be glad to provide you with additional information and help with the process. Visit the Secretary of State website for information and necessary forms.

February 18, 2008

House passes bills to allow information about HPV

Schools that provide information about vaccinations would have to include details about a vaccine against cervical cancer under bills advancing in the state Legislature. The House passed bills (SB 415 and HB 5322) Tuesday that would have schools make the information about HPV and its immunization available to families of students in certain grade levels. The Senate already has passed similar bills (SB 415 and SB 416). Versions could soon be headed to Gov. Jennifer Granholm. (Continue Reading...)

February 15, 2008

SB1059 Hearing Continuing Tuesday

This bill, if passed, would prevent minors from obtaining a waiver to parental consent for an abortion in a second location if they have already been denied that waiver in one location. The bill would also set guidelines for judges to use in determining whether to grant a waiver or not. CTV supports this bill. The bill will be brought for further consideration at the February 19th Senate Judicial Committee Hearing (1:00 p.m., Room 210, Farnum Building, 125 W. Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48933). There is still time to contact Judicial Committee members and ask them to support the bill.

Recent National News

Domestic Partnerships Lose Momentum in New Mexico

Ultrasound/Fetal Pain Legislation Passed in Virginia House

Group of Anti-Abortion Bills Passes Oklahoma House Subcommittee

California Marriage Amendment Collecting Signatures Before April 1st

Arizona Lawmakers Propose Ballot Measure Targeting Same-Sex Marriage

Pennsylvania Voters Want the Opportunity to Protect Marriage

February 14, 2008

Casino Expansion Enabled by New Bill

Effectively, US H.R. 2176 & 4115 will allow tribes to purchase land anywhere in the state and declare it to be "tribal land", for the express purpose of building a casino, rather than keeping casinos on historically held tribal land.

ACTION ALERT: There is still time to contact your member of Congress, as well as Senators Carl Levin and Debbie Stabenow, to weigh in on this subject. Michigan already has 23 casinos, with more on the way; some have referred to us as the "Las Vegas of the North". Call your elected officials in Washington, DC and urge them to respect the intent of the voters of Michigan and say "NO" to this expansion of gambling in our state. Read more.

Gambling News in Michigan

One Opened, One Opening Soon, One Trying to Open
The Four Winds Casino Resort (70 miles west of Kalamazoo) opened August 2, the 21st casino in Michigan. Coming soon to Calhoun County will be FireKeepers Casino, after the U.S. Court of Appeals rejected a lawsuit to prevent its opening; construction is expected to begin this spring. The Gun Lake Casino in Allegan County has been challenged legally since 2000; a federal appeals court is expected to make a ruling soon on whether it can open.

Tribe presents Muskegon Casino Plans
The Muskegon City Commission heard more plans for a tribal casino in the city Monday, this time presented by the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians.

Panel Clears Way for Vote on New Michigan Casinos
A House committee today approved legislation which could clear the way to new Indian casinos in Romulus and Port Huron. The Natural Resources Committee beat back amendments which would have effectively limited gambling on the sites, which are part of land claim settlements with two Michigan tribes.