- Helen Westover reporting -
Mar. 13, 2004
A.M.D.G.
Jerry and I went to Raymond Ave. and Main St. in Poughkeepsie this afternoon. We used Malachi and Emily. Soon after arriving, a young man came over, videotaping us. He asked, “Do you realize you've standing in front of a War Memorial?” Then he launched into an anti-war, anti-Bush tirade. I pointed out to him that clearly, he was silenced by the pictures, had nothing to say, and was lobbing red herrings at us. I did comment that more unborn kids have been killed worldwide by abortion than all the people in all the wars of the 20th century. Useless.
He kept up the taping. I tried to give him my good side, but that gets harder as I age. A woman in a van said, “You're showing those disgusting pictures so my kids can see them - Thank's a lot”. In unison, Jerry and I said, “You're welcome.” We're really getting this down.
The guy with the camera came from within Smokes or Less. So we decided to cross the street, so he could get better shots of us and the babies. Soon, a cop car came by. He told us to make sure not to block the entrance to the store; Jerry told him of course not; then Jerry told the cop that if he were unsure, we had our OWN camera operating from Jerry's car. The cop said, great, and then told Jerry, “God Bless you!”.
We made sure that the guys in Smokes or Less saw the signs better, and another kid came out, bleached hair and pierced all over his face. He told us to move; I said, no, we can't Block...he went back inside and gave the others that information. But later on, the same guy who was anti-war (he actually said, in the beginning, “You are for WAR FOR OIL!” I countered, yeah try to live without it!) But this time, he said, “It's pretty cold out here. You guys are pretty dedicated.”
As we were driving off, he stuck his head out of the door, and gave a cheery smile and wave.
Most of the reaction was positive. One man said that he came over because looking at the Emily Picture, he couldn't tell what side we were on (?). And he is prolife. I think this means that whenever possible, we need to use the bigger signs.
We quit after about an hour and a half. All in all, it was very gratifying.
Helen
Mar. 12, 2004
FTT commenced at 8:15 am. shortly after STOPP arrived with Emily, a man driving a truck westbound reached over a woman passenger to roll the window down, only to shout obscenities at me. That is nothing new, but what followed is. I turned Emily to face the Southbound traffic on Raymond Ave. When I heard a woman shout something, I turned to hear what she was saying. Just then, I observed two young children within her vehicle. Assuming that she was complaining about her children viewing Emily, I turned the sign away from their direction. She then shouted “No, let me see the sign.” I turned the sign toward them, she put her hand to her mouth and stared at Emily as long as she could without stopping traffic. She did not tell her children to turn away.
Jerry
Mar. 10, 2004
STOPP arrived at 11:10 am. This turned out to be an ideal location. Traffic was heavy at the 4 way intersection, the traffic light was long and there is a public parking lot adjacent to the sidewalk.
As I displayed Emily in front of the war memorial I considered whether people realized the connection. Then the Church bells at Holy Trinity announcing a funeral mass, further emphasizing our departed unborn brethren.
A motorist stopped complaining about my displaying Emily in front of children. (Note the time of day.) I responded that if he didn't find it objectionable that someone's arms and legs were torn from their body, then there isn't anything I could say to him. He drove off shaking his head. Several motorists conveyed their approval by beeping their horn, and offering thumbs up or similar gestures. This was probably the first time that no one responded with an obscene gesture. Another motorist who stopped for the light gritted his teeth and grabbed hard against his steering wheel. I expected a violent reaction. Then he forcefully shot me a thumbs up stating that he has 5 children. I shouted back that he is a good man as he drove off.
FTT concluded at 11:40 am.
Jerry
Mar. 5, 2004
Emily was displayed from 8:00 am to 8:20 am. No unusual incidents.
Jerry
Mar. 5, 2004
STOPP arrived at 8:30 am this time displaying Emily. Traffic was heavy. One woman shouted out from her car as she was stopped for the light that she opposed abortion but didn't think my sign was appropriate. I told her I didn't care. she then brought up “the children.” I responded that she can't deal with explaining things to her children. she drove off in a fit of rage. A young girl around 12 or 13 shouted out from her vehicle that I should get a job. It was an obvious attempt to impress her parents in the front seat. Then a woman stopped to inquire why I chose that location and if there were any abortion clinics nearby that I was protesting. I explained that we attempt to get our message out throughout the county. She said that she supports what we are doing and that she gives her time to carenet. I gave her a STOPP pamphlet as we wished each other a pleasant day. FTT concluded at 9:00 am.
Jerry
Mar. 2, 2004
STOPP arrived at 7:20 am displaying Malachi until 7:50 am. No unusual incidents.
Jerry
Feb. 26, 2004
Face The Truth commenced at 11:20 am. By 11:35 am I found myself speaking with Officer Moore of the Red Hook Police Dept. He took a look at the sign and asked what I was doing. I briefly explained STOPP'S philosophy. He then asked how long I intended to be there. I told him I expected to remain between 30 min. and an hour. I told him that I appreciate the position that he is in, that I understand people will call in complaints, but I have a right to continue what I'm doing. He seemed to appreciate that, but still felt uncomfortable. He repeated several times that they had numerous complaints and that they came from people who to the most part agree with me but feel that Malachi is too much. Again I told him that I understood the position he is in and that he does not want to appear unresponsive to complainants. But I held firm that I have a right to display Malachi irrespective of where people stand on the abortion issue. He then came around completely saying “I know you're trying to stop them from killing people.” He asked for the usual information of my name address and phone numbers. After giving him my work number, next thing I know he is asking me which retirement system I'm in and pretty soon were are discussing second careers. He asked for a business card and I had to go back to the car to get a pamphlet. As I returned, I recognized Dana Canaveri who was stopped at the light. He called out to me, offering his approval. I handed the Officer the pamphlet and passed on that if anyone complains about my activity, there is case law within the County. When I mentioned Helen's arrest, acquittal and settlement he responded that he remembered something about that. He asked how long ago it was and I told him I thought it was about 3 yrs. ago. He then reiterated his agreeing that I have a right to do what I'm doing, said it was nice to have met me and wished me luck in my second career.
Shortly thereafter, a truck drove by full of laborers. When they saw Malachi they started pumping their fists in the air in approval of FTT. There is nothing like righteous exuberance.
Then a pedestrian walked by and asked if he could take a closer look at the sign and commented that people think it is just a thing, that it doesn't count, and that it is sad what our society has come to. I thanked him and told him how encouraging it is to hear him say that. I gave him our pamphlet and he crossed the street.
I was then approached by someone who said he worked for the Gazette Advertiser and said he would like to ask me a few questions and take photos of Malachi and I. I explained that FTT is a national strategy which was the idea of a Catholic priest named Fr. Pavone. I elaborated that FTT is necessary due to all of the myths surrounding the abortion issue many of which come from Planned Parenthood and I gave several examples. I further stated that apart from any other atrocity, the media has failed in their job of exposing abortion for what it is which is what makes FTT so necessary. He seemed to agree with me.
A man drove by in a truck making an obscene gesture. Just as I was thinking how incredible it was that he was the first person to do so, someone else drove by with an enthusiastic thumbs up.
I then observed someone dressed in a cook's attire exiting a restaurant and walk toward me. We exchanged greetings of “hi” and “what's up?” He then took a closer look at Malachi and stated “freedom of speech is a great thing isn't it?” I agreed and he left. It is a safe bet he was one of the complainants.
A motorist then stopped long enough to ask if I was against Roe. I told him I opposed the court's decision. He then offered a hypothetical situation of Charles Manson raping my mother. He stressed my mother apparently thinking he was witty and drove away proud of himself.
An elderly woman then approached me and said “bless you for what you are doing.”
FTT concluded at 12:05 pm.
Jerry
Feb. 24, 2004
STOPP arrived at 6:30 am. Malachi was displayed from the sidewalk across from Boston Market near Walmart. At 7:00 am a motorist stopped to offer words of encouragement and inquire about our organization. He stated that he had not seen us in Fishkill before. This again emphasizes the need for us to broaden the Face The Truth message out beyond the Town of Poughkeepsie. Commuter traffic was heavy and responses were positive overall. FTT concluded at 7:10 am.
With Lent beginning tomorrow I would like to conduct more Face The Truth demonstrations. Please contact Helen or me if you would like to participate.
Jerry
Feb. 13, 2004
FTT was conducted from 8:20am - 8:45am displaying Malachi. No unusual incidents.
Jerry
Feb. 6, 2004
STOPP arrived at 12:45pm displaying Malachi. An employee of Pit Stop shouted a profanity directed at me. FTT concluded at 1:10 pm.
Feb. 5, 2004
STOPP arrived at 4:30pm and displayed Malachi until 5:00 pm. Traffic was heavy. No unusual incidents.
Jerry
Jan. 31, 2004
STOPP arrived at 12:07pm displaying a new Malachi sign until 12:40 PM. Traffic was heavy and emotions on both sides ran high.
Jerry
Jan. 24, 2004
Face The Truth commenced at 1:30 PM. Traffic approaching the Mid-Hudson bridge and Rt.9 was heavy. We displayed Malachi and Emily until 2:00 PM. We are making an attempt to put forth the truth about abortion at various times and locations to broaden our message to the public. If you have a time or location which appeals to you, do not hesitate to contact Helen or me. As a legal protection we prefer to select locations with a traffic light and a public sidewalk.
Jerry
Jan. 22, 2004
Both Jerry and I were unable, due to work and family responsibilities, to attend Washington, or the local march at PP in Poughkeepsie. Instead, we conducted our first evening picket, an idea of Jerry's which we will now continue.
I arrived at the Poughkeepsie Plaza at 7:15, and began to show Malachai in front of the Barnes and Noble store. It is well-lighted there, and traffic was heavy. At 7:30, Jerry arrived, and displayed poor Emily. The reaction was gratifying, to say the least. These were people I don't think we have reached in any numbers with our daytime FTT demonstrations. Reaction was mostly positive - a man came to me expressing gratitude that we were doing this, and offered me a cup of coffee. Other reactions were of the “O MY GOD” variety. It was clear that this was the first time the motorists had seen the reality of abortion.
STOPP thinks that nightime pickets may be the answer for those who cannot come out due to work schedules. All you need is layered clothing and good boots. (I finally got myself a great pair - 50% off, naturally! No excuses for me anymore!!)
Please expect a post about the excreble inaction of the Poughkeepsie Journal, and my interaction with them over their total failure to cover either the local, or national commemoration of that tragic day 31 years ago.
Plus - we are gearing up for April 25. Please join us. I am in the process of lining up a bus (or 2, I hope!), and will be contacting Nellie Gray of March for Life, and Priests for Life, and the Center for Bioethical Reform next week.
Helen
Jan. 20, 2004
4:15PM - 4:50PM
I originally intended to conduct a FTT on RT.9 near Hudson Plaza. As I crossed over the Mid-Hudson Bridge, I felt compelled to go to RT.44 instead. Once there I rethought my strategy. Recently I had remained near the Blockbuster/K-mart entrance in order to utilize our video camera. In doing so we sacrificed the cars traveling north or south on Burnett Blvd. I didn't have the camera with me anyway since this was an impulsive decision after leaving a class I'm taking in Kingston. So I set up with Malachi on the corner of RT.44 and Burnett Blvd.
Whereas in the past there seemed to be a definite trend toward public approval tonight I was confronted with a great amount of hostility. A sure indication of unnerving Satan.
At approx. 4:30PM, I heard someone call out to me. I turned and observed a white male with a shaved head wearing a green army fatigue jacket walking up the slope from Planet Wings. He said “can I ask you something?” I responded in the affirmative. He then stated that Malachi was disgusting and that his pregnant girlfriend should not have to see that, and how his brother phoned him on his cell phone stating that their nine year old also should not have viewed my sign. I doubt that there existed a conversation between his brother and himself, nor that his nine yr. old niece or nephew saw the sign. Nonetheless, I replied that he should tell that to Malachi who had his arms and legs torn from his body and was later decapitated. I also mentioned the responsibility of parents to teach their children of the evils of abortion, drawing a parallel to the History Channel and the holocaust. He wasn't very bright and the correlation was either lost on him or was one which he refused to accept. Lacking the ability to formulate a salient, relevant thought, he resorted to obscenities. A motorist stopped at the light traveling east was then emboldened to contribute to the obscenities directed against me. Our friend then attempted to intimidate me stating that “bad things would happen to me” if I remained out there with Malachi. I called his bluff, asking him what would happen. If he was going to shout at me, then go ahead. He wasn't expecting that. I told him there wasn't anything he could do to prevent me from displaying Malachi.
He then questioned what the police would do if they knew I was there. I invited him to call the police. Just then I observed a Town of Poughkeepsie squad car at the light and invited him to summon the officer. He declined, and I could see his frustration mounting. I thought he may swing on me. He then backed away as if to leave.
I then felt something hit the right side of my face. At first I thought it was some snow that he kicked up in frustration, but then I realized that he had spit on me. It was only a small amount which struck the right side of my face just below the corner of my lip. He left shouting numerous threats and obscenities. About five minutes later, I heard someone shout out from a black Hyundai, it was our friend again who stated that he hoped someone hung me followed by several more obscenities.
Retrospectively, since I last viewed him as a passenger, there is a high probability that his pregnant girlfriend was in fact operating the car. He very likely was angered because Malachi offered the clearest argument not to abort the life within her. Whatever she may have told him. As is always the case, it wasn't until afterwards that I thought of all the great things I should have said. Such as if he cares so much about her, then he obviously doesn't want her to contract cancer. Of course people like that really only care about themselves anyway.
Jerry
Jan. 16, 2004
FTT commenced at 3:15PM facing southbound traffic and concluded at 4:05PM. Emily was displayed.
Jerry
Jan. 14, 2004
FTT commenced at 1:08 PM on RT.44 near Planet Wings. Present were Helen, Pat Messina and I. We displayed Malachi, Tiny Tim and Emily until 2:30PM.
Jerry
Aug. 14, 2003
Yes, my friends, many of you have wondered about my state of mind, but I got stoned yesterday! Unfortunately, the lad missed. Now, what's left? Jerry was spat at, and some dude threw rocks at me. Were it not for STOPP I'd have no merit in Heaven at all. He aimed at me; either because I'm the Director, or because I'm a woman. It was thrilling.
Almost as bad, Willa Frieband, the PR person of MHPP was there too. She was there to “ensure that the clinic stays open.” Such honor. She took my picture, at the same time I took hers. It was a lovely reunion. We gabbed a bit about diets, and how hot it was; she kept ducking inside the cool abattoir, forcing the poor young deathscort out into the heat.
Willa used to be my debating buddy. We appeared on local TV a handful of times, and a few on radio. The very last time, we were on TV discussing D&X abortion. I launched into my usual recital of: medical facts, fetological science, the pain felt by preemies (leading surgeons to anesthesize them now) compared with what happens to “un-wanted” “preemies”, quotes from the National Abortion Federation and NARAL, and the Alan Guttmacher Institute. Willa made snappy rejoinders about “women's rights to our own bodies,” pro-life “violence,” and general pro-abort cant. Willa is a dim bulb because one must dwell in the shadows so to ensure that one's right hemisphere knows not what one's left hemisphere is doing (With apologies to Our Lord Jesus Christ). I was just as dim, culpably stupid, when I was a pro-abortion feminist, so I know the type better than the type knows itself.
After that show, in the hallway, Willa made her way to the stairs, keening and screaming “Helen Westover!! I don't believe anything you say! I just don't believe you!!!!!!!!” The moderator and I then threw a bucket of water on her and...actually that part is not true; witness her presence yesterday. There have been no more debates. though wherever I speak locally, I challenge her to another such (unfair) duel, and she makes me look good by refusing. A gerbil could best Ms. Frieband in such a contest.
Helen Westover, reporting
Dec. 24, 2003
FTT commenced at 7:55 a.m. displaying Malachi and concluded at 8:15 a.m.
Dec. 5, 2003
FTT was conducted from 8:40 am to 9:00 am. Malachi was displayed.
Jerry
Dec. 4, 2003
I went to the offices of State Senator Saland, and Assemblyman Joel Miller. There is a road in front of the offices, where the office people can see the large Malachi sign.
I also gave out pamphlets to several who drove by the service road. One man said he recognized me, and took a bunch for his Church - unfortunately, I didn't get his name.
Both Saland and Miller are pro-aborts. Miller used to vote against Medicaid funding, but flipped; at a dinner for Rick Lazio a few years ago, I caught Miller coming out of the bathroom. I demanded to know why he did this; his answer - “Helen, do you SEE the kind of PEOPLE who are having all these kids?” I said, “Joel, is that a racist statement?” He said, “If you quote me, I'll deny it!”
Saland is a creep that let Planned Parenthood stop his bill which would mandate a broader Mandatory Reporting law in cases of Statutory Rape.
I am having a sign made up to point out the abortion advocacy of the both of them, and Saland's refusal to protect young girls from sexual predators.
If anyone wants to join me, please call - 845-473-7380
Helen Westover, reporting
Dec. 3, 2003
FTT commenced at 10:30AM on the sidewalk facing southbound traffic. Malachi was displayed. There were no unusual incidents other than a woman stopping to give me a cup of coffee from Dunkin' Donuts. It concluded at 11:30AM.
Jerry
Nov. 12, 2003
I displayed Malachi on the sidewalk along RT.44 and Dutchess Center. I chose that location which is just west of Planet Wings as it afforded me the ability to utilize the camcorder. Shortly after I arrived a man in a red Kia shouted obscenities while making profane gestures. He then parked next to my car and exited his own. While approaching me, he observed the camcorder and quickly became hesitant. Suddenly when his actions became verifiable he lacked confidence. He offered the usual illiterate barrage of “that is disgusting” and “people just finished eating” crap. I referred him to Malachi or better yet to tell the next victim. He left. Next a woman stopped and proclaimed that my sign was not a real abortion. I asked what she thought it was and corrected her. She then replied, “well that is a third trimester.” I invited her to look through my car window where she could view Tiny Tim, an 11 week victim. Notice I told her there is very little difference. She then complained about children viewing my sign. Note the time. I told her better they see this now, than find out the truth after they have an abortion. Around 12:30PM someone exiting the plaza shouted hysterically that I should put the sign away, and that with the inclusion of several profanities I was not changing anything.
It was not all negative though. There were several motorists who offered expressions of approval.
Jerry
Nov. 6, 2003
FTT commenced at 12:25PM. Malachi and Emily were displayed by Helen and me. FTT concluded at 1:00PM.
Jerry
FTT commenced at 1:00PM . I elected to display Malachi due to the increased focus on partial birth abortion. A nursing student approached me requesting information for a pro-life paper she is preparing to submit at DCC. FTT concluded at 2:00PM.
Jerry
Oct. 22, 2003
FTT commenced at 12:30 and concluded at 1:30PM. No unusual incidents.
Both events were video taped with the equipment generously donated by John and Meg McDonald. Thanks again.
Jerry
Oct. 16, 2003
FTT commenced at 11:50AM and concluded at 12:10PM. No unusual incidents. FTT was canceled the day before due to weather conditions.
Jerry
Oct. 7, 2003
FTT commenced at 12:20, concluded at 1:20PM. I displayed Emily. Overall the public's response was far more approving than negative. One motorist inquired whether I was for or against abortion when I responded “against” referring to the sign he replied “I can see why.” Later, a man walked across the grass at Planet Wings to express his support and offered me a bottle of coke. Even someone who initially criticized the sign, thought it over rolled his window back down and wished me a good day. Maybe the polls are right and the public is swinging more to our side.
Jerry
If any of you would care to join me revealing the truth about abortion please respond by e-mail or phone 266-3913. I am open to any suggestions including changing the day and time of FTT. If you would like to contribute but are uncomfortable displaying a victim then you could man the camcorder generously donated by Meg McDougal.
Jerry
Sep. 17, 2003
Probably the last time at Vassar College for a while. Helen and I arrived at 12:05PM and set up at the sidewalk near the main entrance. Helen displayed Tiny Tim and I revealed Malachi. Both of us pamphleted. Helen left at 1:15. Pat Messina arrived around 1:30 and positioned herself at the opposite side of the entrance with Emily. One of the college's employees accepted a pamphlet from Pat confiding that working conditions at the college are difficult for anyone who isn't in-line with their leftist views. She encouraged us to keep up the good work. We concluded at 1:55PM.
Jerry
Sep. 16, 2003
Helen commenced a FTT with Tiny Tim in Red Oaks Mill near The Hobnobbin Restaurant from 12:noon-2:00PM. No unusual incidents to report.
Jerry
Wed. July 16, 2003
There are times that I wonder why I'm doing what I do. Today I thought I was doing one thing; turns out there was at least one other reason.
Jerry and I got to PP in Beacon at noon, soon followed by Dick Murphy and Patsy, an old-time rescuer, both from St. John's in Beacon. We used the usual signs, plus a sandwich sign I had made up years ago: “Life Begins At Conception - and Ends At Planned Parenthood,” and “Planned Parenthood Kills Babies.” It was great to have enough people to use the extra signs, and to hand out literature. This is the “best” abortuary around, because we are right smack in front of the door, nose to nose with the “staff,” and with great access to the public. It was especially great today, because of Johanna.
Johanna is a street person. She is currently homeless. The demonstration drew her, and she came to help. Overwhelmed by the pictures, and the literature, Joanna went into action. At first I cringed as she yelled at people a bit - but she understood the drill.Then Johanna went into action, shaming me for my timidity. She went into the streets, and sometimes urged, sometimes shamed, drivers into taking our literature! (We go into the street itself until the cops catch us, and tell us not to). Johanna gave out more literature than we have in the last 5 FTT endeavors. She was on fire - then she kept asking us, “I'm a good person, right?”
This lady has a sad history; yet felt closer to God because she was able to do something GOOD. I had tears in my eyes; she asked if God was pleased with her. I said, 'yes'. I then made up a new category of “PROLIFER OF THE WEEK”, and gave Johanna a button and the Precious Feet. Grace was there, touching the painful life of Johanna Kessler.
I know we were there to picket PP, to help stop the killing. There being no coincidences, I believe our primary job was to meet with, and at least for a while, remind Johanna of her true destiny; that God needed her. Too.
“The prostitutes and tax collectors will enter the Kingdom of God before you.”
Helen Westover, reporting
Wed. May. 28, 2003
Dear All;
Jerry and I went to Burnett Blvd. in the Town of Poukeepsie today. We began at about 12:15. Jerry held Emily, and I decided to use Tiny Tim (Center for Bioethical Reform 10 week aborted), and a beautiful sign which shows an 8 week unborn baby, (alive). First, I would show the living child; then, Tiny Tim; mouthing the words (or at times, calling out,) “before - after.” It was kind of a show, and people really stared. We pray that they thought about it as well.
Some of the shouts were ridiculous - “I love to kill unborn babies!”. These people are something.Then, a first; some man spit at Jerry! He came close to hitting him. I said to Jerry, “Now we know for sure that what we are doing is good!” Aren't we to rejoice at spitting and cursing, when we are doing God's will? St. Francis of Assisi would deem such treatment “perfect joyrdquo; Showing the victims certainly forces satan out into the light of day. This kind of thing is nothing short of demonic.
Later, we were joined by Ed Dombrowski, Pat Messina, and Pat Kennedy. At 2pm, they had to leave; I stayed an extra half hour.
Next week will be again at Burnette Blvd. Please try to join us!
In Christ, for Life,
Helen Westover
Sat. Apr. 26, 2003
Friday I went to Marist College, at the Main entrance. I had with me a brand new Tiny Tim, one of two I was able to purchase as a result of your donations. This is the 10 week aborted baby, which I find to be THE most effective of all I have used. Along with Tim, I carried a sign I made which said "MARIST - DUMP SPITZER". I had planned to be there for about an hour; instead, I was there for three.
I discovered many things; practically no one has any idea who Elliot Spitzer is. Those who know, have no idea that he is a ferocious pro-abort Attorney General, who attempted to shut down every crisis pregnancy center in NY state.
Crowds of college kids came up to ask who he was, and what I was doing there. It was the opportunity of my life-time, to educate about abortion, and about the nature of the pro-aborts. First; the kids.
Most of the ones I spoke with were truly curious about abortion, and the use of the poster did it's magic. (O - it has a face! Hands!) I know there are still some who question, and even condemn the use of aborted baby posters. Yes, some people get angry. But more, far more, are faced for the first time with the reality of the horror of this "procedure" and the humanity of the victims. One boy looked and said, "but a girl I know had an abortion". I said I was sorry - and shared with him the fact that my own daughter had had one also.
This softened him, so I asked, "Do you think she would have gone through with it if she had seen this picture?" He said, "No way. She thought it was just a blob!" In fact, Jerry Moynihan and I have decided to concentrate our efforts at the schools, to get to kids BEFORE they arrive at PP's door. By that time, it is most often too late.
Others said they were pro-life, and didn't understand why the college would host someone like Spitzer. Many of them were angry; "We had NO CHOICE of who it would be!" said one girl - probably, from what I gather from the others, they had heard about it, and though it was cool, since he is Attorney General. Marist never told them what the creep stands for - that he is in NARAL and PP's pocket. I found also that one of the Board Members (the decision was unanimous) is a devout Catholic (but an uninformed one - this makes me crazy, but that's another issue - people who should know better - like, READ A PAPER once in a while!), who voted for his appearance unaware of his record.
One kid hit me with the vegetarian issue; I countered with "Don't they tell you at this school that there is an ontological difference between animal and human life?" He said, "What?". Another started to argue the same old stuff, and I said, "You're very open minded, right?" He agreed. I said, "Your mind is so open your brains fell out." He huffed away.
Another tried to debate me with the same kind of rubbish - I said, "I don't have time to talk to you now, but take my card, and call me. I'll answer all your questions then." She started to censure me for not debating right then; I said, listen, I've put myself at your disposal. I'll meet you right here, and take you to lunch. You can't ask for more than that. This mollified her. I use this most often now; Jerry and I, sick of these specious rejoinders, tell folks that we can't talk on the picket line, but will talk them later. This works well - unfortunately, I've never been called. This is a great way to weed out the insincere, and saves a lot of time. One girl said, "I'm pro-life, and I'm SO GLAD you're here!" Others joined her.
I spoke to dozens of students, and the signs were seen by at least a thousand cars. The sidewalk in front of Marist is fantastic! The light is a long one, so people get a good, long look.
The best thing happened at the end - an angry student said, “Wait, you're not going to be here at graduation, are you??”
I said, “Unless the administration changes it's mind, there will be dozens of us.” She yelled, “You're gonna screw up my graduation! My parents are coming from 2,000 miles away!” I said, that's not my problem, advising her to take it up with the jerks who made this decision in the first place.
Here is the bottom line, Folks - Marist has 2 choices: cancel Spitzer, or get their name out of the Catholic Directory, The Catholic Phone book; expunge every place on the web that connects Marist with the name Catholic, or face constant demonstrations.They can't have it both ways; they enlist students whose parents think the college is really Catholic, but then deny it when something like this happens.
I spoke with Chris Slattery of NY's Unborn Baby and Mother Care, a string of CPC's founded by him, about Spitzer. Chris was targeted personally by Spitzer. He fought back, and not only did Spitzer back down, he was un-invited from a dinner he was to attend, attended also by our wonderful Cardinal, "We don't know when Life begins", Egan. Chris is going to pull out all the stops to help us. Chris Slattery is Elliot Spitzer's worst nightmare. Please, keep the calls going; 845-3174 (College Relations), President Murray, Tim Massey (Public Relations). The main number is 845-575-3000.
Letters to the Editor are crucial. If you need help with one, call me at 845-473-7380. Marist does not want controversy.
I will be calling the Archdiocese again on Monday, to speak to the Sisters of Life who have taken over the Pro-Life office. However, the buck stops with Egan. He can, and must, take Marist College out of the Catholic Directory.
Our Face the Truth will take place this Wednesday from 12pm to 2pm, at the main entrance; parking is plentiful at the mall across the street.
In Christ and His Blessed Mother (for whom this sorry college is named),
Helen Westover
Wed., April 30, 2003
Dear All;
I have a proposal - let's do FACE THE TRUTH on the sidewalks around Marist College. Jerry and I will be there at 11:30 am to 1:30 pm. Bring abortion signs. I could also use signs specific to Spitzer ("SPITZER IS PRO-BABYKILLING; SPITZER IS A BABY-KILLER; SPITZER ANTI-CHOICE ON CRISIS PREGNANCY CENTERS; SPITZER'S KIDS;) ALSO, MARIST (MARIST: TRUTH IN ADVERTISING!!! DROP CATHOLIC FROM YOUR CATALOGUES;) , stuff like that.
In your calls, (I trust you received the emails I sent from google.com) tell them they have a choice; drop ‘Catholic’ from all your materials, websites, disassociate from any Catholic educational organizations, or drop Spitzer, and any other pro-aborts, now or in the future.
All those if favor, say “AYE”.
If you can't make Graduation, please try to make this.
Helen
Fri. Mar. 21, 2003
Dear All;
Though we haven't been as faithful as we should have in reporting, I wish to assure you that our weekly FTT pickets have been ongoing. There was only one week when no one showed up.
Last week (Wednesday at the Price Chopper site) we had 5 people including yours truly, and the majority of drivers were positive! This is heartening, since I am convinced that so many pro-lifers have felt stymied (what ELSE to do?) and welcome this action. STOPP will also be joining Fr. Pavone's people the first week in April, in NYC.
Now; our own Weapon of Mass Destruction - the “STING”: I have been in contact with Ed Zalinsky, and attorney for Life Dynamics, for several weeks. We have plans to re-visit DA Grady, and Ed Whitsell within the next 2 weeks; this time, Ed will be conference called into the discussion. He has sent me material that proves that we have a solid case against Mid-Hudson PP.
I also spoke to Tina Marlow, at Steve Saland's Albany office. Steve's new bill is totally deficient in addressing PP's felonious conduct. I told her that we await his solution to protect all the children. I suggest that you call his Albany office on Monday (518-455-2411) and thank him for his efforts against child sexual abuse, and then ask when he plans to address the issue of PP's cover-up of Statutory Rape. He is really on the hotseat, here. From what I gathered PP is making things really difficult...like I care....
Also, April 2 is Child Abuse Prevention Day; do with that what you wish; STOPP and Life Dynamics have a plan, which I will disclose as soon as we solidify it.
Folks, we are closer to closing PP than ever before. As I said in a letter to the Pok. Journal, in answer to Steve White's glee at dodging this bullet - "Things Take Time." However, it will not take as much time as I originally thought. We've GOT them, my Friends.
Stay tuned.
Helen Westover - Director,
Mid-Hudson STOPP
Wed. Jan. 22, 2003
Phase 1:
I arrived at Planned Parenthood at 11am using my new “sting” signs, "PLANNED PARENTHOOD COVERS UP STATUTORY RAPE", and “PLANNED PARENTHOOD PROTECTS CHILD SEXUAL PREDATORS.” Dolores Thompson, the dirty-minded Planned Parenthood “educator” who was thrown out of local schools after STOPlanned Parenthood exposed her filthy sex-ed, was greeted by me and the sign. Soon I was joined by Associate Director Jerry Moynihan. We then switched to pictures of the Victims. Joan Lempka and her children arrived, and they took over for me, so I could go to the corner of Church and Market St. with the ‘sting’ sign. I was careful to picket in front of the County Office Building, and the Dept. of Social Services.
Then the people from St. Mary's walked down to Planned Parenthood. Jerry, Joan, her kids, and I were holding the Victims at this point. As I was walking with the large Malachi sign, a man yelled at me, “PUT DOWN THAT SIGN!” Shocked, I responded, "Don't tell me what to do!". Déjà vu, my friends. Though STOPlanned Parenthood initiated this alternative picket 15 years ago, I was banished from it 3 years ago because I, as always, displayed the victims. At that time, it was a priest who grabbed my sign, and threw it to the ground, forbidding me to display it. That's why I was at Burnett Blvd. the day I was arrested. Later, I vowed that since this was STOPlanned Parenthood's picket, I would resume doing what I believe to be right. Those who disagree are respected, and of COURSE are free to use other means to communicate the message. ANY activity against abortion is a worthy activity; however, STOPlanned Parenthood will not be unfaithful to it's mandate.
Soon, the St. Mary's people continued their prayerful protest walking to the back of Planned Parenthood.
Phase 2:
Jerry and I decided to go over to the Poughkeepsie Journal with the "sting" signs. We picketed there, and gave out copies of the letter I attempted to have published in the Journal. I also cried out, "Come and read what the Poughkeepsie Journal refuses to publish!" This was noticed by some of the employees of the paper. But the response of the public was electrifying; even a bus driver stopped, and took several articles from me. Jerry was wild -- a man with maybe 2 hours sleep, he jumped into the street, over the solid snow, giving out the article. I also called out, "For the sake of your daughters, PLEASE read what the Poughkeepsie Journal does not want you to hear!", and "The Poughkeepsie Journal is covering up the PROOF that Planned Parenthood is committing a crime." Jerry called similar statements from all over the place; we had a lot of success on the steps of the Post Office.
Phase 3:
Jerry and I went over to that pro-abortion bastion, Vassar College, displaying the Victims. We witnessed many gaping jaws - yet, not one obscene gesture.
I will distribute the article, the transcript of Mid-Hudson Planned Parenthood's covering up rape, and hopefully will play the tape to the legislators on Monday, the 27th, at the DC Legislature. Jerry will also be there, to speak more deeply of his knowledge of penal law on this issue of statutory rape, and those who act as accomplices to it. The business meeting will begin at 4pm, and then the public will be invited to speak.Years ago, we flooded that chamber year after year; finally, they had to move it to the Bardavon, due to all the angry pro-lifers who denounced Planned Parenthood. PLEASE CONSIDER COMING! We will conduct a picket, using the ‘sting’ Signs.
If you have any questions, or can make a commitment to attend, please call me at 845-473-7380, or Jerry Moynihan at 845-226-3913.
By the way, the Journal will not print his letter either.
In Christ
Helen Westover
Wed. Oct. 16, 2002
The weather was horrendous. I'm not sure if this is part of a hurricane or not, but we considered canceling our witness to the abominable practice of abortion. After conferring with Associate Director, Jerry Moynihan, we decided to be faithful.
Present were Patricia Tobin Kennedy, Pat Messina ( coming over from saying the Rosary at PP ), Jerry Moynihan, and myself. We stayed about 45 minutes, until the wind made it impossible to hold the signs without becoming (we and the signs) airborne! I had a nice trucker guy deliberately soak me by getting as close to the sidewalk as possible, and then sloshing the water all over me with his tires. Ha ha.
I was reminded of all those times, 52 weeks a year, when the STOPP picket was present at PP no matter what the weather - for a full two hours.. Has the movement progressed? NO. Is it time for us to "lighten up"? HELL no.Think of the Rescue Movement; did the weather ever stop them? Never. Ask Pat Messina, Rescue veteran.I wish more had attended, but that's OK - some did. And we will continue to shock, educate, gross out, educate by giving these silent Victims their Voice.
We hold pictures of children who have died in the past; Malachi, Emily, .Tiny Tim We must not forget that they represent, and witness to, the 4000 of their brothers and sisters who died, today!
Helen Westover,
Reporting
STOPP/ Scripturewall
Dear Friends,
I want to thank you all so much for your expressions of support during this very difficult time. I believe most of you know that I was suddenly and summarily terminated by Christian Ireland Ministries. Dialogue has not been allowed.
Many of you have wanted to attempt to intercede for me in this matter, but with deep reflection, I am asking that you cease. Had I any inkling that I was walking on eggs, and that the risk of termination was even possible, without redress or appeal, I certainly would not have changed my financial situation to the degree that I did, to allow time for this anti-abortion work. Therefore, to trust that if restored, my position would be less tenuous, and less subject to personal pique, would be imprudent of me. Therefore, I have no interest in reconnecting with Scripturewall, or Christian Ireland Ministries. I will instead trust in the One who said "Trust not in princes..." . I will trust Our Lord alone. He has been so good to me; I know He will never fail me. He absolutely never has.
I ask for one thing; Pray that the Monday Newburgh PP picket continue. It is here that Pat Messina and I are seeing miracles. Face the Truth will continue; those of you who have taken part, please forgive me for failing to be there last Wednesday. Next week is ON.
My plans to deal with the colleges and high schools are on hold now, due to my need to compensate for the lack of income.
Thank you so much
Helen Westover
Sept 18, 2002
Face The Truth, - + RTL of Dutchess County
This Wednesday, we gathered outside of the Price Chopper mall; all 14 of us! We used the new, HUGE signs we bought from Victory Won; The first one, as you drove by, was a beautiful depiction of an eight week-old preborn baby, and lettering on the top which announced, "HEART IS BEATING AT 20 DAYS". The rest of the signs were of the dead; and you could see them for a mile away. Talking to the Warriors during and after the event is so encouraging! The point is made so tellingly, that we KNOW we have truly accomplished something tremendous. At the same time, there is a sadness that we share. Those who take part in FTT also get the message, viscerally - the pictures have their effect on us as well. My God, this is happening, this slaughter, every day. 4000 a day. So often we know this, but just on an intellectual level. This cuts to the heart, and sears the soul. This is why this new type of demonstration is catching on all over the country.
All this pain, all this blood, all this injustice.
This also was a day that the Poughkeepsie Journal took note of us. John Davis is the reporter who contacted me because he's doing a story on D&X (partial birth) abortion for the Journal. I gave him the collection of stories I have about it, about the lies the pro-aborts told, as told by an abortionist, the perjury of Planned Parenthood before Congress, the testimony of doctors who testified (including ex-Surgeon General Koop) that D&X is NEVER medically necessary - (If anyone needs this info, just contact me). The kicker is that all of this evidence comes from the American Medical News - the newspaper of the AMA. But I also tried to set him straight on 2nd trimester abortion generally. Compared to D&E (dilation and evacuation), for the baby, D&X is a walk in the park. To demonstrate this, I gave Davis copies from Warren Hern's "Abortion for Idiots" textbook ABORTION PRACTICE. In this book, Hern describes how the fetus is dismembered, how it's skull is crushed for ease of "delivery", and how he charges by foot size. Hern also defends "sex selection" in this, his Magnum Opus. John knew nothing of this, though I believe he's sympathetic. People, "out there" no one knows nothing! Our "education" methods for 30 years haven't worked. That of course, is changing.
They sent a photographer, Spencer, who spent a lot of time with us, taking pictures. He heard some of the complaints people yelled, and he and I talked about it for a while. I said, "If the media had been doing their job for the last 30 years, and showed abortion for what it is, we wouldn't have to do this." He agreed...and said, "This is really powerful, these pictures, and what you're doing - it clearly has impact." I mentioned to him that the pictures, if they ever make the Journal, will be fuzzy. He was momentarily insulted! He doesn't take "blurred pictures!" I laughed and assured him that this was not to doubt his skill - but to tell him that the Journal won't stand for publishing the evidence.
The article itself will come out later in the week. I'm warning the reader here that it will probably be skewed, and distorted. This is NOT because of Davis, who I know to be a scrupulously fair reporter, and a man of integrity, but because the editors will do what they can to screw it up, deliberately.
I also want to mention finances in this report. Right To Life of Dutchess County has been helping STOPP and FTT with many materials. These new pictures that we used Wednesday and bumper stickers and buttons we have (the Re-Bumper Stickers from Victory Won are magnetic, and can be removed or replaced - a terrific idea) are being paid for by RTL. We have been splitting the costs for the last 6 months; some from my stipend from Scripturewall, some from RTL. For now, I ask that any money you gave to Scripturewall, or wish to send me, go to RTL - the address is Right To Life of Dutchess County, 25 Robin Rd. Poughkeepsie NY 12603.
We couldn't have done what we did on the 18th without them.
In Our Lord,
Helen Westover, reporting
Sept. 24, 2002
Dear All,
I hope that those of you who plan to attend will bring whatever signs you have (of the Murdered). STOPP has had 2 signs destroyed, in a demonstration yesterday - Pete Seeger put in an appearance for Labor Day, and all the "non-violent" "meat is murder" folks were there in strength. I brought Malachi; a man ripped the sign apart; then I brought out Emily; another man put his foot through her face. STOPP was attacked, and injured, not seriously. But the loss of the signs is a big problem.The police were wonderful; I spent 3 hours at the station, filing a complaint. Justice will be done.I don't know if any of you know Joel Tyner; he is a "green" liberal -type, who is always running for one office or another. We shook hands; He is a "good Liberal" who understands intellectual consistency.
Later, the liberal Noel Tepper, who is semi-famous in the area, for many reasons, agreed to testify in my behalf.
The point is, I have ordered new signs, for an expansion of FTT - but apparently, we need them just to continue what we were doing.
I will be at Price Chopper with what I have left - those of you that have signs of the Victims are encouraged to bring them; soon, we will have replacements; but we cannot let the violent muzzle our duty to expose the Violence.
Onward!
- Helen Westover reporting -
Sept. 6, 2002
A Report, and an Appeal:
STOPP has a problem, and his name is Jerry Moynihan. He calls at all hours, asking for pictures of the Victims, so he can fill in where others are absent.
Today, Jerry, a man who works a gazillion hours to care for his family, and probably logs in 4-5 hours sleep a night, tops, has caught the Face The Victims bug. It is spreading all over the country, and Jerry has been infected. He has come with his young daughter, Rachel, and his wife, Elena. But today, he met me at the Post Office to get his own Malachi. I drove by after giving him the sign, and saw him 45 minutes later, holding the Child up for all to see. All alone. His plan is to do this with every spare moment. He does it because it's the right thing to do.
STOPP had ordered many more signs, and literature, before the rupture with Scripturewall. We were able to pay the bills as a result of that connection. Now, we are having a difficult time; Right to Life of Dutchess County has been helping, but their pockets are not bottomless. Much of the funding came directly from the funds we got from SW. It is not yet clear if SW is prepared to help out with ammunition that was ordered by STOPP before the cut-off.
We need to make signs and literature available to the others, like Jerry, who offer their time and sweat to witness, be insulted, abused, and cursed, by the Enemy. This is both a report, and an appeal.
Please, if you believe in this work, help us support it. My financial crisis has yet to be resolved. And now, bills I thought would not be a problem (for the MOVEMENT, alone) are pressing. We desperately need your help.
I promise that every cent will to support what we started 6 months ago. God willing, with your help, we will be able to expand, as we had planned, to high schools, local colleges, and other venues.
If you have, as I had suggested, donated to Scripturewall, please politely ask that those funds (which you meant to go to STOPP) be re-directed to us; make your checks out to me, Helen Westover, 371 Church St. Poughkeepsie, NY 12601.You will see and hear the results of your sacrifice. It will not be spent for meetings, fund raising, or other things that don't directly support our direct connection to the streets, and the Planned Parenthood areas where we engage, debate, educate one on one, and picket.
STOPP, Jerry, I, and all the others who have caught fire in the last year, will not turn back. We will not cut down on our time waging this war. But we need you.
In Our Lord, and Him alone,
Helen
Sept. 4, 2002
We all met at Price Chopper, again; Rich, Patricia, Pat Messina, Karoline Leibler, and Ronni Mangeri.
I usually position myself at the southern light, nearer to the Price Chopper southern entrance. This allows me to catch people as they are going IN. The rest of the gang lines the sidewalk to hammer the Truth into those going south on Rt. 9, and coming from the Pougkeepsie Plaza.
To my great relief, Rich brought 2 Emilys'! Mine having been destroyed on Monday, I thought I'd never see her again. Emily was the first Victim I had ever used; I have a real bond with her. We used the 2 LARGE Malachi's, unlaminated, unfortunately. If anyone knows how to get this done, please contact me.
From my vantage point, the reaction was intense, on both sides. A man drove up and said to me, "You are dealing with people without conscience - you'll never get through to them." I agreed; but replied that it is the ignorant, who still have consciences, that we were hoping to reach. Later, of all people, Bill Paroli ( a controversial local politician) pulled me over, and asked if I were the one who tangled with the Town of Poughkeepsie, and won. I replied, yes; he said "I so admire what you folks are doing." I kiddingly said, "Well, praise from Caesar!" He replied, "No, Praise Jesus!" You never know, Guys; you never know.
- Helen Westover reporting -
Aug 21, 2002:
We were rewarded for our fidelity to this demonstration by fabulous weather. Eight of us took our positions on the sidewalk in front of Price Chopper. It was fun, behaving like we were pulling off a robbery; I removed my bumper stickers, dumped the signs and left them with Patricia K. and roared away, parking in a spot surrounded by cars which were up to nothing but shopping.
Everyone else had scattered their cars as well. We began.
There was a great deal of traffic since school is beginning and we received LOTS of attention! A woman came to me and said "You're showing these pictures where people are EATING?" (there are several restaurants in the area). I said "Yeah; enough to make you lose your lunch, eh?" Toward the end along comes a Town of Poughkeepsie cop - not again! As we shook hands he told me that someone had complained that we were in the road!! Yes, bereft of stuff to complain about, they claimed that we were risking our lives by picketing in the traffic. The cop said "I've been watching you for an hour - I know it's a lie, but I had to come out. And do you know who took the call?
Paul Herman!
For those of you who don't get the irony, he's the cop who arrested me 2 years ago and lived to DEEPLY regret it! "Paul told them 'There is NOTHING we can do; they have a RIGHT to be there, or anywhere else!' " Sweet, sweet, my friends. If the weather has been keeping you from joining in the festivities, now's the time to come on down! BTY - I had a long talk with Joe Scheidler the other day.
Father Pavone wants to do a FTT (Face the Truth) in NY City in November.
Start on Times Square, then travel to the major media offices. This would be a test run, and Joe said he will come up for it, bringing signs and vans for transportation. Chris Ferrara is scoping out NYC laws and ordinances, and will serve, pro-bono, of course, as our legal counsel. This will be MAJOR FUN, you guys! This is developing and as soon as I have dates I will let you all know.
Aug 20, 2002
Once again, we witnessed and demonstrated in front of the Price Chopper Mall. I will be referring to the site in this way for reasons which will be apparent. A police officer came over and motioned to me; I thought "here we go again". But to my surprise it was a former student I had taught at St.Martin DePorres school! He was Town of Poughkeepsie and knew of my history of having been caught up in the dysfunction of that Department and came over to congratulate me on my (actually Christopher Ferrara's) victory.
We were having a great time remembering the Old Days (how old, it stuns me to realize! Last time I saw him, I sent him to the principal's office for acting up in class!) when an official for the Mall came over and said that if we didn't move our cars, we would be towed; the owner of the mall had decreed that we had no business parking there, if we weren't shopping. SO - we went into action (what else?). I took the bumper stickers off my car and everyone else scattered their cars (with PERMANENT stickers - I have a solution for this...), and we resumed the picket. I checked with Chris Ferrara, and he confirmed that the mall owner has the right to do this; fine. Because this took valuable time from the business at hand, I told everone they had to put in overtime.
After we were finished, Patricia and James Kennedy and I spoke to the management at PC. We informed them we were able to put 2+2 together, and knew that PC was behind the contact to the Mall owner. I informed him that we were aware that Price Chopper [ed note: it's PC owner Neal Golub and family who are) heavy contributors to Planned Parenthood, and that this little caper instigated by the store had inspired STOPP to organize a boycott of his store. I also indicated we have a vast mailing list, and would be spreading the word nationally. We will be back tomorrow, naturally. So - BOYCOTT PRICE CHOPPER, AND CALL THEM TO LET THEM KNOW WHY!!
- Helen Westover reporting -
July 31, Aug 7, 2002:
The demonstrations went on, with heat that would make lesser men run to the Mall. On the 31st we got some feedback from the manager at Price Chopper. First, he made a comment to one of the Warriors. Since we were spread out I did not hear the conversation, so as he was walking back to the store, I called to him, and motioned for him to come back up to speak to me. I introduced myself and then he said "I know you folks have a right to do this (I would bet money he called the cops - as a matter of fact, I've noticed lots of folks giving us dirty looks, and then fumbling to make cell calls...) but I wish you wouldn't do this here. I don't like the connection between this and my store."
I said "I can understand that you feel that way." Then, (slap on the forehead) I realized that what I SHOULD have said was, "Heck, why not? Price Chopper is one of the major contributors to Planned Parenthood!" Rats. We are attracting more Warriors. Pete Judge has come 2 weeks in a row from Amenia, and last week brought a friend. It is fun to watch the demonstrator's initial reactions: we have all the Victims; Emily (the little girl's severed head - I named her that years ago) Tiny Tim (Cunningham sign), and Malachi. We have several of each but we also use ALL's sign that shows a child's face and says "FACE IT - ABORTION KILLS". I like to have people hold that sign interspersed with the Victims so passers-by "get it". Newcomers almost always pick the tamer sign. But after they've been there for a while they pick up the baby pictures. They become energized, bold. They are changed.
Our hope is that the boldness that is "caught" at a FTT demonstration will spread. It's like a baptism for anti-abortionists who realize they are doing something that actually WORKS. Feeling muzzled and mute in this society, where denial and lies seem to choke us like a noxious fog, they are finally able to speak - to speak through the victims.
We owe so much of this revitalization to Joe Scheidler of the ProLife Action League (my "rabbi" for years), Chet Kilgore who gave us Malachi and Emily and Greg Cunningham of the Center for Bioethical Reform.
Now for some bad news: Greg's TRUTH TRUCKS have been immobilized: the pro-abortion insurance carrier has cancelled their insurance. I've mentioned his work before and have spoken to him when I've been unsure and cowardly. He and his encouragement have much to do with the growing FTT movement here in Dutchess and Orange County. His organization needs funds to get insured with another carrier. We CANNOT let this happen! I recommend that everyone reading this missive go to his website, abortionno.org. And I beg you: whatever you were planning to give to me this month, you instead give to Greg. His address is Center For Bio-Ethical Reform, P.O. Box 3788, Anaheim, CA 92803-3788. He needs the funds by Aug. 21.
We are all in this together. What we are doing is driving the culture of death insane - well, they are ALREADY insane, but now it is showing; they are virtually foaming at the mouth. $108 will get one truck back on the road (new, more expensive insurance). Six donations of 20 bucks will do it. We need Greg - and now, he needs us.
FACE THE TRUTH - Round
IV & V
- Helen Westover reporting -
On Wednesday July 17 and Wednesday July 24 Poughkeepsie witnessed Face The Truth demonstrations. These are growing in size and commitment. The 17th we had the usual committed anti-abortionists including Jerry Moynihan and his daughter Rachael who was a piano student of mine, but who, due to the necessity of performing my primary vocation, I had to refer to another teacher.
Jerry is on FIRE, and has, among other things, designed a T-shirt with Malachi on the front, and consulted a person who makes banners so that we can display the truth to women coming into PP on Tuesdays without interfering with the sidewalk counselors. Jerry and his wife and two children have shown an uncommon dedication to this effort; we don't know what we would do without him.
On the 24th we had the Millbrook contingent at Price Chopper in Po'town, i.e. Joan Lempka and her 2 children holding signs which said "Face it - ABORTION KILLS". These signs are a necessary compliment to our photos of the ravaged unborn. An hour was not long enough; I went to end the picket at 2:30 and was met with disappointment by our Warriors. So-
This needs to grow. Rich VanSlambrouck and I talked about doing this EVERY DAY at a different place. Wednesday at Price Chopper but, how about Thursday at Wal-Mart in Fishkill? Tuesday at Burnette Blvd? Friday at New Paltz? And since Pat Messina and I are in Newburgh on Monday, alongside our one on one at the PP, another FTT outside of the Hospital?
When schools open up, a day at Vassar College; a day at SUNYNP? AND, or Plus, if a group wants us at their location, we pick up and go there. We need more signs especially the Greg Cunninham signs of early abortions; donations are welcome; they are 75$ per sign; and STOPP pays for the mounting of each sign. It is an election year; we need people to make the Republican traitors to FACE THE TRUTH. This is an exciting time for anti-abortionists; we ARE making a difference; this IS working, my friends.
FACE THE TRUTH - Round III
- Helen Westover reporting -
We had some new WFL's at this one, at Burnette Blvd today, the 3rd of July. Wendy Valleau, one of the strongest and most dedicated Catholics it's been my joy to know, joined us; Jerry Moynihan, AND his wife Elena, AND his 2 kids, and good old (I don't mean in the chronological sense - just that she ALWAYS shows up) Patricia Kennedy.
I was concerned about the heat, naturally; satan seems to ensure that every time we have these things, it is the hottest day of the week. But, as we all reminded ourselves, it is NOTHING compared to the heat in Purgatory. We witnessed with Tiny Tim and Malachi and signs that said "FACE IT - ABORTION KILLS".
Wouldn't you know it, the responses were overwhelmingly positive! Of course, there were the deep thinkers that, as Jerry puts it, "articulated with their middle fingers" but they were in the minority. This site isn't bad at all - around the corner is ample shade. The traffic was especially heavy due to the upcoming holiday. From what I hear, the temperature only got to 95F When STOPP had its weekly picket on Wednesday we were always there for 2 hours; from 11:30 to 1:30, regardless of the weather. So the measly hour we spend doing this is not a great burden.
Wendy remarked that one of the things we are doing here is giving heart to other anti-abortionists! I sort of knew this but Wendy really emphasized it. And it's so true; how many burnt-out, "helpless" anti-abortionists are out there? Then they see that the WFL are FINALLY doing what has to be done; "Showing the Babies; Showing the Babies". The ripple effect goes farther than we will ever know.
Next week, I hope, in Fishkill. Want to feel good? Come on down!!
FACE THE TRUTH - Round II
- Helen Westover reporting -
On Wednesday June 26 STOPP had its second FACE THE TRUTH demonstration. It was a success. The folks who attended will henceforth be called Warriors for Life, or WFL, (not to be confused with "Wimps for Life" - Joe Scheidler's epithet). These brave souls deserve special recognition and I don't need to remind this list, PRAYER. WFL are truly on the front lines.
Present this time were Joan Lempka and several of her kids, Joe Marinaccio, Rich VanSlambrouck, Vin Lewis, Pat Messina and Patricia Kennedy. I was concerned about the weather; it was hotter than Hades, and once again, violent weather was forecast. Oh Me of little faith! Joan Lempka informed me that she had prayed for good weather and not to worry. Still, I had visions of Warriors collapsing from heat stroke or being struck by lightning. (God isn't finished with me yet... I wonder sometimes if He has even STARTED.) Anyway we met at the Hudson Plaza in the Town of Poughkeepsie (by Price Chopper) and were surprised to find there was SHADE! There are trees, there! Armed with several huge photos of the murdered Malachi, Tiny Tim, and Emily, we spread out on the sidewalk. Joan held a sign that said "STOP THE WAR ON THE UNBORN"; some held the ALL sign "FACE IT - ABORTION KILLS". The traffic was heavy; we got the usual from drivers; one guy said, "I don't need to see this!" I said "Sure you do! There's a massacre going on!" But when there was reaction, most of it was POSITIVE.
Here I go again, folks. This is what to do. Period. Want to influence your legislators? OK - but bring the Victims. Want to get your Parish involved? Stay off the property and display the victims. Rich Van really put it right "Who needs Joe Scheidler!!" We have everything we need to keep this thing going ourselves. Rich also caused me to rename the effort - This is not a picket..." he said "This is truly a DEMONSTRATION.
Just an aside; I received a news report that some anti-abortion Vermonters were also DEMONSTRATING using the photos. Vermont RTL ran to the local newspaper denouncing the tactic! They said that people wouldn't like pro-lifers anymore. Thanks for nothing, RTL! I spoke to Mark Crutcher (Life Dynamics in Texas) and he said that he supports this FTT stuff wholeheartedly. He reminded us all we are NOT in this to be liked; to get good press; to look respectable" but to, what a concept, STOP ABORTION. We're to be as "respectable" as Our Lord was, and if they start to LIKE us, we have parted company with HIM.
So! I would like to do this once a week on Wednesday at 1:30. Next week we are going to good old Burnett Blvd, the safest place on earth to picket - remember my arrest?? I must assure any who are considering joining us; you will NOT get in trouble with the law. You will NOT get arrested. That's a guarantee. For all I know the cops may come over and give us water, and who knows, doughnuts! So those of you who wanted to come last week and couldn't make it, WFL invites you to join us next week. Helen Westover reporting. PS - again, my # is 845-473-7380
FACE THE TRUTH - Our Opening Round
- Helen Westover reporting -
Today several STOPP members, Patricia Tobin Kennedy, Chris Lane, Bill Kriebel, Jerry Moynihan, Mark Ruggiero, Dennis Maloney and 2 Latino folks who came along for the ride, caused great consternation to the NYS Republican Party.
STOPP sponsored the First FACE THE TRUTH picket and chose the Republican Party banquet at the Mid-Hudson Civic Center in Poughkeepsie. It was also designed to celebrate Governor Pataki's birthday. Many were called and these few answered. The Holy Ghost used these brave people to make a statement for the babies. We also had a GREAT TIME!
The purpose of this demonstration was decidedly NOT POLITICAL. STOPP doesn't give a rat's tail about politics. Our sole purpose was to show these "pro-choice" political hacks, including our Governor, what the "choice" really is. What they choose to do with the information is their business; we don't care. However, we, the anti-abortion Rottweilers (Dennis Maloney's term) vow to follow these creeps wherever they go and continue the educational program they so badly need.
To be clear; STOPP's concerns are the following, in this order; Christ the King; His One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church; and His Little Ones, born and unborn. We were a bit discouraged at first, hoping for more warriors. However, we went into action, at first across the street from the Civic Center on Market St. Naturally there were cops everywhere. What a test for Chris Ferrara's old client.
I wondered if they would try to cook up some reason to make us disperse. After all the Victims lined the street - Malachi, Tiny Tim (two pictures) and Emily. At first not much happened, so as the time came closer to the Witching Hour (the arrival of the Governor), we moved across the street, covering the main entrance. We knew exactly where to go, following the Republican blue balloons... soon the dignitaries began to drive into the parking lot. Some of us were still across the street but Patricia, myself, and Bill K, were right there. Soon enough over came a Poughkeepsie cop... He introduced himself, I introduced myself... he said " Just wanna make sure you folks are safe, crossing the street... and of course you know about blocking driveways, and stuff.."
I assured him we did, thanked him for his concern for our safety, and said, by the way, we appreciate what the City police are doing in the light of all the recent shootings. I thanked him again, we shook hands, and I went, to myself, YES!!! BE NOT AFRAID! STOPP is covered in Teflon ( Dennis Maloney's' term, again) and there is NOTHING to fear in Dutchess and surrounding counties... So say a prayer for, and make a donation to Chris Ferrara of the American Catholic Lawyers Association!!- We had free rein.
THEN I saw that a lady had grabbed the Emily sign, and was proudly holding it for all to see! Then, another Latino guy who had been watching, grabbed another sign! So, when I was asked by a reporter for the Daily Freeman if only STOPP folk were here I said "No - we have spontaneous support here!" and pointed to the duo. People are (hate the word) empowered by the Babies. FINALLY, they KNOW they are communicating to the world. Turns out that both of them are Seventh Day Adventists, and the lady, Marietta, asked me to address her church about the issue; which I will... and since I studied Ellen White's (19th Century Visionary of the 7th Day Adventists) writings, perhaps I can do some evangelizing.
Bigwigs began to come; judges, Joel Miller, turncoat assemblyman, and I swear, even Sue Kelly, our pro-abort congressWOMAN. Mark made signs that said "GOP - stop taking pro-life issues for granted...." and such; I made a sign which I held along with Tiny Tim that said "PATAKI'S CHOICE". And wonder of wonders; the MAN himself, in an SUV, wearing blue shirtsleeves (he's a man of the PEOPLE, you know) drove right by, got an eyeful and waved. Readers, it was a fine moment.
As I told the reporter and Anthony Farmer from the Poughkeepsie Journal (I doubt any of this will be reported, though Anthony is a really good guy), we're not here to change these people's minds, (though for their Salvation that would be a start), we are here only to witness to the horror they call "Choice" - to the shed blood of the innocents, for which they are responsible; and we are not going away.
Saland is running again. I used to support him as the "Lesser of the 2 evils". No more; we told the reporters, "We have been tolerating being given crumbs and bones from these people... and we are choking on them. Never Again."