James Madison wrote in The Federalist No. 63, "[W]e are warranted in believing that ... the House of Representatives, with the people on their side, will at all times be able to bring back the Constitution to its primitive form and principles."

• For school districts to continue saying the Pledge of Allegiance
• For freedom to teach children abstinence for marriage
• Religious freedom around the world
• NM Supreme Court decision on same-sex marriage
• Constitutional Amendment protecting traditional marriage - Senate vote on Jul 12
• Pray for rain in NM
• Civil Govt Prayer Guide
• Lightshine Ministries - Prayer Guide
• Presidential Prayer Team - www.presidentialprayerteam.org
  Presidential Prayer Kids - www.presidentialprayerkids.org
• Prayer Warrior for America - www.visionamerica.org/-support/prayer.htm
• National Day of Prayer - year round dedication to prayer
• America 21 Prayer Watch

ENCOUNTER - And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come. Luk 19:13

Jul 11 - Battle for Marriage Imminent Vote Simulcast
Jul 16 - Albuquerque Bible College open house, 5-10pm. Free live entertainment and
refreshments. 120 Aliso SE (3 blocks east of Carlisle) 828-1205 or 261-2790
Jul 17-21 - Equip Conference, Hoffmantown, 858-8654
Jul 20, 7pm - The Truth and the Trial, CSF talk at Faith Bible, 9600 Central SE
Aug 3 - National Neighborhood Night Out
Organize an event for your neighborhood or just invite someone over
Sep 3 - Southwest Women's Festival, guest speaker Joni Eareckson Tada
NEW LOCATION: Albuquerque Convention Center, 6:30-9:00 p.m
Tickets available - larger venue (previously sold out)
Rescheduled due to an accident - Joni has a broken leg
Sep 18 - Walk for Life, Abq CareNet, 880-0882
Sep 25 - Principle Approach Conference, Foothills Fellowship, The Pathway to Biblical Liberty: Implanting Christian Character, Virtuous Leadership, and a Biblical Worldview in Your Home, Church, and Nation
Sep 25 - Born to Run, Kit Carson Park, Abq
Oct 22 - National Day of Prayer Coordinator Conf, Colorado Springs CO
Keynote Speaker: bestselling author Stormie Omartian

Nov 4, 5 - ChangeMakers Seminar, Abq
Nov 5, 6 - Women of Virtue Conference, Abq
Nov 6 - Christian Heritage Speech Competition, see topics & register today!

Ongoing
Weekends - Portraits in Providence, KFLQ FM 91.5
Daily - Focus on the Family Radio Broadcast
1st Wed, 7:30-9:00am - Rio Grande Pastor's Alliance, Bill Butler, 294-0016
(Twister Grill, 2912 Juan Tabo NE, South of Candelaria)
Fridays, 9:30-11:00 am - "Praise the Lord" program airs "live" on KNAT TV 23 in Abq. Guest spots available for pastors to share the Good News! We'd love to have more local pastors preach, teach, encourage, and edify the Body of Christ." Call Cindy @ 836-6585.
Fridays, 12:00 - prayer meeting for Christian ministries. Trinity College, Eubank & Constitution, 872-2741

UNDERSTANDING - And of the children of Issachar, which were men
that had understanding of the time, to know what Israel ought to do; the heads
of them were two hundred; and all their brethren were at their commandment.
I Chron 12:32

• Contents:
  One Nation Under God
  NM Public Regulation Commission
  David Barton Visits Abq
  Movie Review
  Judges - Accountable Like the Rest of Us?
  Federal Marriage Amendment
  Principles of Local Forest Closures
  Hostility Toward Christian Values
  My "Country Tis of Thee" - Jesus Was a Country Boy
  Friend of the Family
  -
• One Nation Under God
  
  A few week ago, there was an article in the Rio Rancho Observer that informed its readers that the Rio Rancho School District was going to make the standing and reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance optional. This announcement came from the mouth of an attorney contracted by the Rio Rancho Public Schools, not the Board of Education. Several members of the Board were outraged with the article, including my wife Kathy. The very next Board meeting on June 14th proved to be an interesting one. I once again put back on my Army uniform (American patch on sleeve and all) and signed up for public comments concerning the Pledge. I was not alone.
  
  Hope Garcia, wife of former Board member, and Lonnie Clayton, former City Councilor joined me and each of us gave inspiring and convincing testimony to the Board on why our children should continue to stand and recite the Pledge of Allegiance. Testimony included the many lives lost and the sacrifices of our founding fathers, the history and tradition of our Nation, and the proper respect to be afforded our Country. In the end, the Board decided to keep the current policy with a slight revision to permit religious objections providing that there is a signed directive from the parents. The entire ordeal started when the ACLU exerted pressure on the school district because of one student. Please pray that school districts throughout the state will remain strong and not bend to special interest groups like the ACLU.
  
  Kevin Jackson
  Recently returned from overseas active duty
  
  Last edition, we ran an article with an update on the US Supreme Court decision on the Pledge of Allegiance. Though the ruling pivoted on a technicality, it released public schools from a temporary restraining order AND provided great insight on our Christian heritage through the minority Justice report. This week, we see resolution of an attack from the ACLU right here in NM. Full text of the US Supreme Court decision is available from the US Supreme Court website under Elk Grove Unified School Dist. v. Newdow (PDF format). The opinion of the court includes an excellent history of the Pledge of Allegiance and a fascinating dissent by Chief Justice Rehnquist, Justice O'Connor, and Justice Thomas.
  -
• NM Public Regulation Commission
  Most people are unfamiliar with the NMPRC. Here's an article shedding some light on its influence and the importance of electing qualified people to this office. NM Primary Election results.
  
  The New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (NMPRC) is constitutionally created and is charged by the Legislature with regulating public utilities, telecommunications companies, and insurance companies to the extent necessary to provide just and reasonable rates and to assure reasonable, adequate and efficient service for the public. In addition, the Commission is charged with the duties of assuring pipeline and fire safety and with the registration of corporations and compliance with applicable laws.
  
  The NMPRC was created in 1998 by the state Legislature, by merging the New Mexico Corporation Commission responsible for telecommunications, trucking and insurance with the Public Utility Commission that was charged with regulating electric and gas utilities and pipelines. The PUC and the NMCC each had three appointed commissioners. When the NMPRC was formed they created five elected commissioners. The commissioners are elected from districts (most of Albuquerque is District 1), but have statewide jurisdiction.
  
  It is safe to say that in today's world EVERYONE that lives in New Mexico is one way or another impacted by the NMPRC. You cannot flip on the lights (electricity), pick up a phone (telecommunications) or drive your car (car insurance) without coming in contact with an industry regulated by the NMPRC. For instance, a recent issue was whether the area code for Albuquerque was to change from 505 to something else. Of more impact to your wallet, the NMPRC allowed PNM a rate increase of 17% for its gas rates last fall.
  
  The NMPRC has a difficult balancing act of protecting the ratepayers from paying unreasonable rates while allowing a fair rate of return for the companies it regulates. If the rates of return are too low, utility companies become unattractive to investment, borrowing becomes more expensive and needed infrastructure improvements are not made making New Mexico unattractive to business and the creation of jobs. If the rates are too high, it causes us all a lot of economic discomfort and is likewise a discouragement to businesses. Therefore, the Commission is always "playing Goldilocks" trying to set rates not too high, not too low, but just right. With five elected commissioners from two political parties this is a difficult task.
  
  H. Ward Camp, 934-4793
  www.hwardcamp.com, wardcamp@aol.com
  -
• David Barton Visits Abq
  Historian David Barton of Wallbuilders spoke in Albuquerque on Tue, Jun 29^th on the topic of The Role of Pastors & Christians in Civil Government. The luncheon at noon was attended by about 200 pastors and church leaders. David spoke about the content of 18^th century sermons - many addressed current issues. About 200 also attended the evening event at Evangel Christian Center. Barton said Independence Day used to be one of the top two religious holidays in America when citizens would engage in "solemn acts of devotion" and recall what God had done.
  
  He shared some shocking present day voting statistics. In the 2000 election, 85% said they were Christian and 23% said they were evangelical. Of the 60 million evangelicals in the US, only 15 million voted and 24 million were not even registered to vote. If this were a football game, it would be like having only 1/4 of your players on the field! People complain that the conservative, moral voice is not being heard. Our VOTE is the best way to make it heard. You can help by encouraging your church and other churches to conduct voter registration drives before the Nov election.
  
  The Role of Pastors & Christians in Civil Government (avail VHS, DVD, audio, and booklet)
  A Century of Lawmaking - US Congressional Documents & Debates
  Americans of Faith - Register, Vote, Pray
  -
• Movie Review
  Thumbs down on Fahrenheit 911. During today's broadcast of Focus on the Family, The Healing of America, Dr Dobson said he was NOT going to see the movie Fahrenheit 911. It is the embodiment of hatred toward America and basically a lie masquerading as a documentary. Your money is a vote of approval.
  -
• Judges - Accountable Like the Rest of Us?
  Significant controversy has surrounded the disposition of former Judge John Brennan. Articles, opinions, and letters in the Abq Journal (Jun 11) highlight the severity of Brennan's behavior and the seemingly light response from Governor Richardson. What does this kind of response do to the public trust? "Gov. Bill Richardson said Thursday he plans to talk with top members of the state judiciary about recent drug allegations against Judge W. John Brennan and the public's eroding confidence in the judicial system." (Abq Journal, Jun 11, Chris Vogel) What would be the penalties for an average citizen of NM who committed a similar crime? Are Judges above the law?
  
  Gossip has for years surrounded the Albuquerque courts...reporters say they can't report about it all because no one is willing to attach their name to any specific allegations. The arrest of Judge Brennan now offers a reason for a serious examination of the judiciary. To me, convening a grand jury with subpoena powers -- which would be branded a witch hunt -- to collect on-the-record statements from all of those who might be involved. A grand jury can get some idea whether any other judge either knew about or suspected that Judge Brennan was unfit to sit on the court. Ditto the lawyers who hung around Albuquerque courts.
  
  1. Convene a grand jury to examine Judge Brennan and those around him as to whether any other judge could be charged with obstruction of justice.
  2. The media or a large group of activist organizations should challenge each and every judge in Albuquerque to volunteer for the hair follicle test. Any refusal by any or all of them then should be branded a conspiracy to conceal the truth about the courts. If some comply, and some don't, then there's a reason to mount a publicity campaign when those who decline are next on the ballot. It could make for a powerful and simple message (I've had some experience developing political messages for candidates).
  3. Require applicants for appointment to the court provide, with their application, a certified copy of independent test results for a hair follicle examination.
  
  Governor Richardson jawboned the judge, but has no power to remove him. Judges are too far beyond the reach of the people who pay their salaries. We all want an independent judiciary, but we don't want irresponsible judges. If we need a citizen oversight commission for the police, perhaps we need one for the courts.
  Glen Hanson
  
  Take action and join in holding our Judges accountable. Contact David Bernd, PhD, 294-2637, dbernd@comcast.net. NM Primary Election results.
  -
• Federal Marriage Amendment
  www.wevotevalues.com
  The Battle For Marriage-Imminent Vote Simulcast will take place on Sun, July 11th. The US Senate is scheduled to vote on Mon, July 12th on the The Federal Marriage Amendment defining marriage between "one man and one woman." It is a historic event that all churches and Christians should be a part of. According to Christian pro-family leaders, Christians must engage in this battle or risk being silenced. Please email www.wevotevalues.com to Christians who can inform their pastors and sign up for this event. Send an email to Senator Bingaman and Senator Domenici today. Hand written letters are even more effective.
  
  www.wevotevalues.com
  Protect America - local website on protecting traditional marriage
  Citizenlink Special Report - Why Marriage Matters.
  -
• Principles of Local Forest Closures
  Gen 1:28 And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
  
  National Forest Service Guiding Principles
  Sustainable Forestry Initiative Standard Principles
  Federal Wildland Fire Management Program Guiding Principles
  
  Many liberal environmentalists would like permanent closure of the forest to eliminate human impact. So how do we know these closures are not arbitrary? Why don't we burn the forests like Native Americans used to do instead of preventing fires until a really big one starts from natural causes? A forest accumulates more material to burn the longer the period between fires, thus putting the forest and nearby residents at higher risk. A recent conversation with Mary Bean, acting district ranger, clarified some of the principles used to determine local forest closures.
  
  Mary Bean described the Energy Release Component (ERC) and the threshold for forest closure. Fuel Moisture is the primary input into computation of ERC. However, maximum and minimum temperature and relative humidity as well as precipitation duration are all used in fuel moisture algorithms so model performance in each of these parameters will affect the output. Bean said the forest closes only about once every two years so it seems unusual when it happens. Liz Agpaop, Cibola Forest Supervisor (similar to a "CEO"), makes the final call on Cibola. She said people need to be out of the forest if there is a fire so resources do not have to be diverted from protecting subdivisions to evacuating hikers/bikers/horses. Storms bring rain but they also bring lightning that starts fires. You can expect the forest/trails to be closed indefinitely until we get enough moisture to reduce the ERC to acceptable levels.
  
  The Cibola and other forests are initiating treatments to enhance fire prevention. In some cases, we do burn the forests like Native Americans used to, however, in some of the areas of highest concern (the "Urban Interface" areas), burning may not be appropriate risk management, so other tools are used. These tools include thinning & chipping the trees; opening areas to firewood collection so consumers may assist with the thinning and utilize the product; commercial thinning contracts; thinning and burning piles of thinned material, and under the appropriate conditions, thinning & doing "broadcast burns" (low intensity burns over the ground, vs burning material that has been piled).
  
  Mary E. Bean
  Acting District Ranger
  Sandia Ranger District
  Cibola National Forest
  505-281-3304
  
  ERC & FMC Stations in NM
  Cibola National Forest
  Santa Fe National Forest
  NM National Forests
  National Forest Service
  National Forest Centennial 2005
  -
• Hostility Toward Christian Values
  Received an unusual email requesting removal from Principles Community Impact News. "Dear Mark, please remove us from your list. The content in your emails, while very interesting, may cause a problem over here in North Africa. Thanks." How long will it be before Christian Principles cause a "problem" here in the States? Pray for religious freedom around the world!
  
  CareNet PCA reported in their Jun 2004 newsletter: "Our state and school officials feel that the association between the CareNet PC (an evangelical organization) and Best Choice Educational Services [abstinence for marriage education], might lead to confusion and/or mis-interpretation of some of the curriculum used in the classroom." Just a euphemism for "we hate Christianity" or evidence of a more sinister methodology to silence abstinence education? Planned Parenthood and their "safe-sex" message is no longer the only "kid on the block!"
  -
• My "Country" Tis of Thee - Jesus Was a Country Boy
  by Clay Walker
  I stumbled on a preacher Sunday mornin'
  All decked out and made up for TV
  Askin' for some money from God's people
  Talkin' all that high theology
  
  Well I might be just an old blue collar
  There's things about the Lord that I don't know
  But I bet He never had a million dollars
  Or wore a lot of stylish fancy clothes
  
  Cuz Jesus was a country boy
  Walkin' down a dirt road with everything that He owned
  He never met a stranger
  Born in a barn underneath the stars
  
  His momma laid Him in a manger
  Swimmin' in the river, Fishin' for His dinner
  Livin' with the sinners like me makes me think
  That Jesus was a country boy
  
  My daddy never cared much for religion
  And my momma worried a lot about his soul
  She'd hit her knees and pray for him on Sunday
  While daddy hit his favorite fishin' hole
  
  (heard on FM 107.9)
  -
• Friends of the Family is a group of key supporters who invest monthly in family ministry. Their commitment is key to the ongoing effectiveness of Focus on the Family and enables us to extend the ministry to many who cannot afford the resources and services they need. They also enable our radio programs, our efforts to defend family values, and our outreaches to special groups like teens, unwed mothers, and non-Christians. For more information, call 1-800-A-FAMILY.
  
  You can send tax-deductible donations to Foothills Fellowship for direct support of the Principles Community Impact Ministry in NM.
  -

RESOURCES
The following organizations are listed for your assistance and to promote the mission of the organizations. There is no intent, nor has there ever been any intent to imply these organizations endorse or support the Principles Newsletter, though it is a nice idea. Any organizations wishing to endorse or support the Principles Newsletter, please contact principles@integrity.com. Anyone finding these organizations helpful, please consider mentioning the Principles Newsletter when contacting them. Thank you.

Principles Newsletters Archive
Roster of NM Govt Officials

LOCAL
Adopt a Life
Albuquerque Bible College
Ask Jesus Now
CareNet Pregnancy Center of Albuquerque
Christian Assoc of Parent Educators
Christian Community Foundation
Christian Summer Camps
Creation Science Fellowship NM
Educate NM
Foothills Fellowship
Free Indeed Ministries
Greater Southwest Council BSA
Griffin Art Collections
Habitat for Humanity
Hands On Ministries and Education
Hope Christian Schools
IDnet-NM
InOneAccord@comcast.net - Faith Based Political & Social Newsletter
InterVarsity Christian Fellowship NM
Joy Junction
KFLQ
KNAT TV 23
KNKT
KYNM TV 61
Legacy Church
Lightshine Ministries
Parenting Teenagers
Principles
Protect America
Rio Grande Enrichment Studies
Shepherd's Guide
Tijeras Foundation
Trinity Southwest University

NATIONAL
A Century of Lawmaking
America 21
America Bless God
American Christian History Institute
American Heritage Party
American Family Association
American History Pictures
Americans of Faith
Campaign for Working Families
Center for Reclaiming America
Center for the American Founding
Christian Heritage Mini-Course
Christian Heritage Series by Nancy Rue
Christian History Institute
CitizenLink Action Center
Crown Financial Ministries
Early Church Fathers
Faith Facts
Family Research Council
Focus on the Family
Focus on the Family Battle for Marriage
Focus on the Family Pastors Weekly Briefing
Foundation for American Christian Education
Foundation for Biblical Government
Founding Fathers
Frontline Fellowship
Judicial Watch
Pilgrim Institute
Preserve Liberty
Principle Approach International
Providence Foundation
Religious Freedom Coalition
Renew America
Saints and Heroes
Summit Ministries
TeenPact
Vision America
Vote.com - vote on public issues and other topics
Vote Smart
We Vote Values
Wallbuilders

Community Impact News is edited by:
Mark Burton, Foothills Fellowship, 294-0016
Pager 971-2053
Many thanks to contributing authors and businesses.
Please forward events/articles/links to principles@integrity.com.
Current distribution is over 1,400 email addresses throughout NM.
If anyone you know would like to receive this newsletter directly
please have them send an email to principles@integrity.com.
It is also available on the web at www.rges.cc/news.htm and can
be accessed free of charge from any library internet service.
If you are reading this from outside NM, please locate and support
a Family Policy Council in your area.