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Gay-themed grant causes flap

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By MATT OLBERDING and DEENA WINTER / Lincoln Journal Star

Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 - 12:19:54 am CDT

A minor $1,500 suicide prevention grant caused some major controversy during City Council and County Board meetings this week.

The reason: The focus of the grant was gay and lesbian teenagers, and the original grant funding would have been funneled through a gay-rights advocacy group.

Both the council and County Board approved the grant, but not before some vigorous debate and amendments aimed at de-emphasizing the gay and lesbian focus.

Story Photo
Kit Boesch

The grant was one of eight approved by a joint city-county board to be funded out of keno proceeds but the only one that was questioned by either body.

Originally, the keno money was designated toward Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays to identify and assist gay and lesbian youths.

But both the council and County Board amended their resolutions to award the contract directly to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Health Center to find or develop the education program and to broaden the scope to include other high-risk groups.

Lincoln-Lancaster County Human Services Administrator Kit Boesch said PFLAG was tapped to apply for the grant so it could lend its nonprofit status to the effort.

The inclusion of PFLAG led to some letters and e-mails to council and County Board members alleging the group has a hidden agenda of “recruitment and retention.”

Councilman Dan Marvin said he took the one letter-writer’s advice and researched PFLAG and “didn’t see anything remotely bad about it.” He would have supported the original proposal.

“It really irritates me that that’s the direction we’re still at in this day and age,” he said.

Councilwoman Robin Eschliman and County Commissioner Bob Workman disagreed, and even removing PFLAG as the grant recipient was not enough to garner their support.

Eschliman voted against the resolution Monday, saying it was controversial and “causes grief” to use tax dollars to fund gay and lesbian issues.

She said she’d rather give the money to something less controversial because people with “deeply held traditional family values” don’t want their tax dollars used for such causes, and she suggested the UNL Health Center could raise money to create the program.

Workman, who was the lone County Board member to vote against the amended resolution Tuesday, took a similar view.

“I believe this type of government funding can undermine traditional family values,” he said.

When told by a fellow board member the grant did not come from tax dollars but from money spent on keno, Workman angrily responded that there is no difference.

“These are government funds,” he said.

Workman, who got into heated exchanges with Boesch and fellow board members, called approving the grant “wrong” and said the board was being “duped.”

Boesch defended the grant, saying the money would be used to create an “education module” for area professionals to help high-risk homosexual kids who are depressed and suicidal.

She said the keno money and other grants will be used to hold four seminars, create a Web site and put together materials for professionals.

Boesch said area professionals are clamoring for such a curriculum, and she expects 200 professionals to use it.

She said the area has good programs in place but needs materials for “hard-to-work-with kids.”

“The hard-to-work-with kids are controversial,” she said. “Sure this is controversial. So are those kids and doggone it, we need to make a stand and say this is important.”

Reach Matt Olberding at 473-2647 or molberding@journalstar.com. Reach Deena Winter at 473-2642 or dwinter@journalstar.com.


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Good move wrote on October 11, 2006 12:34 am:
" Even if you don't agree with working with Kids who are "Gay and Lesbian" This is a good way to use some of the money. Suicide unfortunately is higher amongst those that must combat the constant message that there is something wrong with them. I applaud the city council for making this important step. "

 Nathan wrote on October 11, 2006 12:58 am:
" With such warm affirmations like this, it's a wonder why gays and lesbians would even contemplate harming themselves. "

 tired of the ignorance wrote on October 11, 2006 1:22 am:
" wake up and read the research-- it is not about promoting an agenda of support of homosexuality it is about suicide rates! Recognize that a segment of the population that identifies itself as gay/lesbian or transgendered has a much higher rate of suicidal attempts and deaths-- are you really saying you want that ignored? Maybe what you mean but aren't saying is that you don't mind them dying?? A horribly ugly thought most won't have the courage to voice-- and one not in line with your supposed religous values that cause you such discomfort with homosexuality. And by the way-- I am not homosexual, but I have dealt with the aftermath of suicide and suicial attempts by young adults - about half of which were related to their sexual identity conflicts. "

 connie wrote on October 11, 2006 5:48 am:
" I can't believe that anyone can possibly thimk that working to prevent teen, ANY teen, suicide is counter to traditional family values. if it is, then they are wrong 'values' and NEED to be undermined. Shame on you, Mr. Workman, and Ms.Eschliman! Suicide causes grief, not funding it's prevention. "

 Larry wrote on October 11, 2006 6:12 am:
" Miss Eschliman - The “deeply held traditional family values” line is getting old. You better find something else to run on. It's becoming offensive to more and more people. Get a clue! "

 WCG wrote on October 11, 2006 6:41 am:
" More bigotry. Is it any wonder suicide rates are higher among gay and lesbian teens? Are Eschliman and Workman really this bigoted, or are they just playing to the crowd? As the bumper sticker says, hatred is not a "family value". "

 barb wrote on October 11, 2006 6:44 am:
" Given the predominant anti-gay culture in our community, gay & lesbian youth are at huge risk for suicide. If you anti-gay folks don't want money being spent on these kids, then quit with your incessant anti-gay antics and get your heads on straight. Maybe then, the need for programs wouldn't be there and money wouldn't have to be spent this way. I can think of no better use for this grant money... "

 john wrote on October 11, 2006 6:53 am:
" If we can give money for suicide prevention to religious-affiliated groups, then it is fair to give it to PFLAG. It is ironic how the university has programs centered around the gay lifestyle, but has a disclaimer not to discriminate on basis of sexual orientation. Preventing suicide is a great thing, but why give money to just one organization? If keno money isn't going towards roads and schools, but special interest groups, then maybe we need to examine why we have it in the first place. "

 Truman wrote on October 11, 2006 6:56 am:
" I thought gays and lesbians want to be equal and have not special treatment. "

 hhhhhhhmmmmmm wrote on October 11, 2006 6:58 am:
" That just shows that people with gay/lesbian tendencies have mental issues. It is an accepting society that has brought this problem on. Most of these poor children are growing up thinking that it is acceptable and then finding out as they become teen-agers how hard it is. "Larry" “deeply held traditional family values” is not a line and it will never get old. You are exactly what I'm talking about. It is your fault and the people who think like you as well. "

 Charles wrote on October 11, 2006 7:34 am:
" Eschliman and Workman should note that this is the kind of attitude that the Taliban and Nazis have about this kind of issue. What a disgrace that we have elected officials that actually think like this. "

 Sally Herrin wrote on October 11, 2006 7:41 am:
" There is NO controversy among mental health experts regarding the FACT that gay and lesbian youth are at substantially greater risk for suicide than other kids. My nephew, a bright handsome 15 year old living in a deeply conservative Southern community, could see no future for himself and shot himself through the heart with an antique pistol. His family, school and community--all of whom express their hatred of homosexuals regularly--were terribly surprised. Fully ten percent of the population is homosexual. That includes your family and friends, whether they are OUT to you or not. Think about that the next time you toss off a "harmless" comment like, "That's so gay!" "

 Sylvia wrote on October 11, 2006 7:48 am:
" Robin Eschliman keeps saying, "deeply held tradtitional family values," sounds more like these values and children are deeply held underwater and drowned. "

 OUtraged! wrote on October 11, 2006 7:57 am:
" Oh no! How can we ever help people in need! How dare we! The outrage in helping an ignored population is just shameful! Can anyone detect my sarcasm?? OF COURSE we should be helping this group. People committing suicide should be prevented in any way possible... REGARDLESS of orientation. "

 jw wrote on October 11, 2006 8:24 am:
" this kind of rhetoric out of goverment officials is exactly the rhetoric that contributed to my attempt when i was a teen ..i am gay and wanted to end my life because it was so repulsive to so many...i thought if i went away it would make others happy...maybe the only way i could make them happy...these thoughts were even in my own home...thanks to PFLAG and parents whose love for their children over the pressures of traditional family values prevailed i have become a very successful tax paying, adjusted, happy individual....Peace "

 Jan wrote on October 11, 2006 8:30 am:
" Wow. How can Eschliman and Workman talk about family values when they have such bigotry in their hearts. They obviously don't care about gay and lesbian kids commiting suicide. I wonder who will be next. "

 JMK wrote on October 11, 2006 8:40 am:
" I can't believe that while the city is crying about not having money for this or that, they can give grants out at all. And to give it to special(?) interest groups like gays is just wrong. "

 Bill wrote on October 11, 2006 8:52 am:
" Workman and Eschliman; are you saying gay teen suicide is a 'Family Value'. Do you have any idea how many teenagers attempt suicide simply because they question their sexuality? And all because they are afraid their friends and family will abandon them or kick them out. I read recently that up to 60% or more of the homeless teens are in such a state because they are gay and forced from home. You're saying we shouldn't spend $1500 to create a program to help professional in the community deal with helping gay youth. And yet just last week the City Council and Mayor were willing to spend anywhere from $250,000 to $600,000 from the Administration doesn't want group homes for the developmenty disabled to be too close together. This City Council is all about 'Family Values'. You know Robin; it isn't always about who is yelling the loadest, but sometimes it is about doing what is right. Once again, the City Council as a group gives us more reason to vote them out of office. "

 Gary B wrote on October 11, 2006 9:08 am:
" Just a few quick thoughts I'd like to share...first, since when did people have to abandon their values because some people consider them offensive? If someone votes me into office based on my traditional family values, would I not be doing those voters a disservice by abandoning them? Second, why should this money be used to focus only on gay and lesbian suicide, and not ALL suicide? Seems to me that if the problem they are trying to resolve is suicide, then sexuality really shouldn't matter...are heterosexual teen lives worth less than homosexual teen lives? Are there currently programs in place that focus solely on hetersexual teen suicide? Something tells me "No". Finally, there are a lot of commenters on here spouting off about Workman's and Eschliman's "rhetoric"...but I can't help but find it just a little bit humorous that there is an equal amount of rhetoric, if not more, filling up this page. "

 Josh2 wrote on October 11, 2006 9:15 am:
" How sad that there is even a discussion. Any work with youth who might be suicidal is important. To cheapen the intent of the grant with comments Eschliman and Workman. I wonder if they would feel the same way if one of thier children (heaven forbid) were to contemplate suicide. "

 Grateful to see wrote on October 11, 2006 9:17 am:
" I am extremely grateful to read that the majority of responses represent true tolerance and respect for life - regardless of sexual orientation. As a lesbian woman who tried several times to commit suicide, this type of program is so desparately needed. Again, Workman and Eschliman have not disappointed me; they continue to represent the close-minded bigotry and judgemental rightousness I've come to expect. Each of us directly affects other's lives and judgement kills. Thank you Kit and PFLAG for continuing to be our allies and friends. "

 JT wrote on October 11, 2006 9:22 am:
" Workman's quote, “I believe this type of government funding can undermine traditional family values.” HOW? Would funding a service to help suicidal teens make you switch orientations Mr. Workman? Evidently "traditional family values" means that you get to decide for everyone else how to live. "

 Chris T. wrote on October 11, 2006 9:25 am:
" Robin Eschliman says people with deeply held values don't want their tax dollars used for "such causes." It is certainly a sad state of affairs when teen suicide prevention is considered offensive by any segment of the Lincoln community. I would hope Eschliman's heartless opinions are not reflective of the views of the majority of my fellow Lincoln residents. "

 kf wrote on October 11, 2006 9:26 am:
" As a mental health provider, I am troubled by the high rates of youth that commit suicide. Those teens that are gay and lesbian are most at risk. You were willing to turn down a $1500 grant because you think that people with "deeply traditional values" would not support their money going to this cause? This cause deserves more money than that; not to mention according to the article it was Keno proceeds anyway. When are you going to realize that most people who have any family values at all, consider it valuable to help ALL youth regardless of orientation? "

 E Jr wrote on October 11, 2006 9:33 am:
" My deeply held family values would require this funding. I can't imagine how preventing suicide would be against family values. That's not a value of most families I know of. "

 Eric wrote on October 11, 2006 9:37 am:
" You can tell who the religious are among this crowd of comments - the underlying hatred and willingness to let gay teens die just bleeds right through.... "

 Barbara wrote on October 11, 2006 9:40 am:
" I don't want my tax dollars going to support the hatred of 'traditional family values,' Robin Eschliman. You balk about $1500 to help prevent suicide of teenagers?? How dare you call yourself the 'family values' representative. "

 ET wrote on October 11, 2006 9:41 am:
" Ha...stopping gay kids from killing themselves can 'undermine traditional familiy values'. Oh my. The homophobes have become blatant as of late, haven't they? Since when was hatred and intolerance a "Family Value"? This is part of the reason why I'm sick of hearing about "Family Values". That phrase has been bastardized to mean a lot of twisted things. "

 Whoa wrote on October 11, 2006 9:43 am:
" You know... money is money. There isn't enough being spent on suicide prevention. Period. If there is a specific grant for the suicide prevention for ignorant councilpersons and county commissioners, I'm all for it because I hope no one's family has to deal with the suicide of a loved one. Even their "family values" families. The money has to come from SOMEWHERE. Here's a grant for it. Accept the money. Unless Workman and Eschilman can come up with alternate funds for suicide prevention (i.e. their OWN pockets), then they need to get over themselves and their bigoted "Family Values." "

 Scott wrote on October 11, 2006 9:49 am:
" Well, it's pretty simple. If you want to give money to suicide prevention, give it to suicide prevention. I thought there was a suicide hotline out there, and last I checked, they don't care if you are gay or not. I don't think they answer the phone "Hello, this is the suicide hotline, but you can only talk to me if you are straight." So, then isn't it reasonable to think anyone can get help, even if they are purple with yellow dots? NO MORE SPECIAL TREATMENT!! "

 peb wrote on October 11, 2006 9:51 am:
" As a mother of a lesbian, I can confirm the troubled feelings gays kids start having about the time they get to puberty. I knew my daughter was gay when she was 2-3 years old. When she finally admitted to me that she is a lesbian, I was ready to totally accept her. Before she came and when most of her girl friends started having crushes on boys, she was fighting her crushes on girls. As a result she lost most of her friends. It wasn't until she came out and decided to be true to herself that she began collecting friends. She went on to be elected by her classmates to be Lincoln High's 2003 prom queen--with her girlfriend in tow. The kids get it. I am a member of PFLAG Cornhusker. This grant will be used to help mental health professionals and people who work with runaway or thrown-away kids to recognize the possibility that some of these kids may be gay which will then give them a starting point in helping these kids get on the right track. There's the quote, "There's none so blind as those who will not see." "

 Why I left wrote on October 11, 2006 9:54 am:
" Evidently Family values doesn't include keeping our children alive. GLBT teens don't attempt/commit suicide because they are mentally ill, they do it because people scream hatred at them, beat them up in school and drag them behind trucks and tie them to fence posts and let them die. My God disagree with Gay marriage, thats fine, thats your right, but how can you disagree with preventing teen suicide??? No wonder there is brain drain in this state. We get tired of the hatred and the 19th Century values. "

 NanB wrote on October 11, 2006 10:05 am:
" I wonder if CouncilWOMAN Eschliman would feel the same if it was 60 years ago and someone wanted to direct grant money to funding a woman's program. At the time, that was "controversial". Be a leader and not a follower Ms. Councilwoman. "

 Long time Lincolnite wrote on October 11, 2006 10:08 am:
" I hope that all of you who object to Ms. Eschliman's and Mr. Workman's opinions will contact them directly via the Lincoln City/County website, a letter, or by telephone and express your views. My definition of "family values:" a Biblically-validated form of bigotry and/or hatred, disguised as the moral high road, and used to justify the degradation of "others" by those who fear that they won't get their fair share of society's pie; a mental form of bullying; a deliberately undefined phrase used by politicians to lead voters believe that the candidate shares their belief system and/or biases. "

 RE: hhhhhmmmmmm wrote on October 11, 2006 10:16 am:
" Are you crazy? If society was so accepting of it then why would a gay teen want to kill themselves? Because too many people are like them? Or they are overly accepted???? No it's because they hear it every day from family members, in school, & in church that they are not right and the should change. It's because of things that they hear from our own city council that tells them they are not worth it. A teen suicide is tragic...not matter if the teen is gay/straight/bisexual/transgenered or whatever. It leaves more hurt and pain then any family should have to go thru. I just hope if you ever have a child that they don't end up commiting suicide because of the sexual orientation. "

 Chris T. wrote on October 11, 2006 10:30 am:
" In response to Gary B, the reason why this grant specifies gay teens is because study after study shows that suicide rates are higher among gay teens. Suicide prevention should be funded for everyone, but it certainly makes sense to put additional resources into segments of the population that have the greatest need. Funding breast cancer research isn't any more a special right for women than funding prostate cancer research is a special right for men. Grants are given all the time to benefit certain segments of the population based on the need and the prevalance of the problem. We need to do a better job of providing health care, including mental health care, to everyone. Gay people deserve it just as much as anyone else. "

 yoshiki wrote on October 11, 2006 10:34 am:
" I hate to say that suicidal gay and lesbian teenagers are probably that way because of people who trash them like Eschliman & Workman. “Traditional family values”, whatever values the phrase coins, are fine, but don't expect the whole world to abide by such philosophy. Keep it in you homes, Eschliman & Workman, but don't push it onto others, especially in government, when people really need help! "

 WOW wrote on October 11, 2006 10:38 am:
" $1500 surely won't support much of anything these days! "

 Hmmm wrote on October 11, 2006 10:57 am:
" Youth are neither homosexual nor heterosexual, they are YOUTH. Society's efforts to place them in a box is probably what is causing the suicidal thoughts. At least let them grow up before you force a label on them. "

 So .... wrote on October 11, 2006 10:59 am:
" So if the suicide attempt rate for those purple and yellow dots were 60% would you not want to give a little extra money to those trying to help them? Maybe people don't really know how to help them or reach out to them. Some may not even know the real reasons why they want to end their life. If you call that "special treatment" that's what you call it. I call it being caring and compasionate. Because they are special people. "

 To say... wrote on October 11, 2006 11:22 am:
" To say that "Traditional Family Values" doesnt hold water is the same as saying Gays were born that way. It is a choice, period! I'll bet 35 out of the 38 responses are froom Gay people. "

 Minnie wrote on October 11, 2006 11:32 am:
" How about if the GLBT community follow your advice and 'Keep it in their homes'...don't expect the whole world to abide by GLBT's philosophies, and quit trying to push it on others. "

 Dawg wrote on October 11, 2006 11:52 am:
" It should be given to teen suicide prevention period. Lesbian & gay issues aren't the only reason teens commit suicide... "

 Colby wrote on October 11, 2006 11:55 am:
" When is Lincoln going to move into modern times and lose the angst and rhetoric regarding gay issues? It really embarrasses me to know that I came from this community where people's private lives are so blatantly disregarded and condemned. Grow up. Live your own lives. Quit forcing YOUR values on those of others. It amazes me that our country was founded to escape church (religious) rule on governement (in Europe), yet today, our government is run more by religious leaders and principals than those now in Europe. "

 tim wrote on October 11, 2006 12:02 pm:
" when will our governement representatives get the messasge we're ALL tired of spending for crap we dont NEED. "

 Aaron wrote on October 11, 2006 12:16 pm:
" Whether it's running NU directions or as county commissioner, Bob Workman always manages to ruin everyone's day in order to draw attention to himself. Though I never expected him to go as far as being "pro-dead gay teenagers." "

 In the closet. wrote on October 11, 2006 12:24 pm:
" As an individual who falls into one of the levels that PFLAG supports I wonder why would they need the money more then developing a program at the university? I see PFLAG as a very needed friend for gay youths, adults, and their families. However when dealing with something as serious as suicide that I would think needs professionally trained individuals. Being how today is national coming out day. I don't see how they are going to tell the difference between a child hiding in the closet thinking about suicide because they are in one of the categories of the GLBT community or a Child who is thinking of suicide for other reasons? "

 Mary wrote on October 11, 2006 12:52 pm:
" I am a school counselor and know that the number one reason kids commit suicide is the realization that they are homosexual. It is rarely spoken about or written about, and often other reasons are given when a teen commits suicide. Much help is needed for these students and society needs to wake up and stop thinking that if we don't discuss it with our teens that it won't happen to them. Give them the money and then your support. "

 T wrote on October 11, 2006 1:06 pm:
" I'm sure 35 out of 38 responses are from gay people, desparate to force their views on poor hetero families that are being forced to become gay. In other news, gay people are now killing puppies and making the sky dark, too "

 masses are a$@es wrote on October 11, 2006 1:17 pm:
" So wow, I didn't know that GLBT people didn't have to pay taxes and never play keno... Since when did we have to get a majority ruling on how every tax dollar is spent in this state. If that is the case, I am definately going to have to move because we the majority of people in this state are bigoted idiots. And what is wrong with spending a few grant dollars on this issue, which is a big one when it comes to teen suicide. I am sure there are other tax dollars or funding sources going towards preventing teen suicide as a whole. "

 Choice.... wrote on October 11, 2006 1:22 pm:
" So were you born straight or did you choose it? Or are you in denial about who you truly are? The whole choice/born argument is illogical. I mean why would anyone want to choose to be in the minority, ridiculed, taunted, beaten, or even killed over their choice of who they sleep with. Why would anyone want to choose that? Answer me that. "

 dee wrote on October 11, 2006 1:26 pm:
" wow!! maybe if the money were earmarked to take these poor misguided children and turn them to god we would have no controversy. fat people and homosexuals are the last bastion of sanctioned discrimination/hate in the is country. home of the free as long as you do and be exactly what we tell you. "

 LOL 35 of 38 wrote on October 11, 2006 1:27 pm:
" T my man you must not have read most of those 38....I'll bet that maybe half are from gay people....most of the others more then likely know/have a family member who is gay. Heck one of them is from a mother who said her daughter is a lesbian....I don't think she's gay too. "

 Chad wrote on October 11, 2006 1:57 pm:
" Eschliman might reconsider the roots of controversy and work to better serve a diverse community. Prevention of suicides among our most vulnerable populations is a noble cause, pro life issues should not be contorted or diluted by prejudice and bigotry. While homosexual behavior might not fit into most religious dogmas, the humanitarian face of government must transcend relgion and the inhumane side of extremists. Children deserve a chance to live and discover identity, Eschliman appears to judge in a manner out of step with modern thought. "

 sue wrote on October 11, 2006 2:17 pm:
" So we want suicide prevention to go to only straight teens? Gosh, that's kind hearted. "

 Suz wrote on October 11, 2006 2:42 pm:
" I want to know when Eschliman and Workman come up for re-election. I want to vote them out. Maybe my dog can run against them, as she has more sense. To the rest of the commentators out there, I am glad to see so much support for the GLBT issue. It makes me think perhaps this state has a chance. Honestly, we need to stop people from hiding behind this "Family Values" thing. It reminds me of a time when marrying outside your race was considered against "family values". Believe me everytime I hear someone say they are against someting because it does not support "family values" I pity them for their own prejudice. How can you hate someone you don't know? Get the bigots out of office, VOTE them OUT! "

 Ron Porkmor wrote on October 11, 2006 2:44 pm:
" I am truely embarassed by these people who say giving any kind of money to gays/lesbians or whatever violates their 'traditional family values'. From the sounds of all the people who run around saying stuff is violating their 'traditional family values' are the biggest bigots ever. Which is kind of funny, because they majority of them are 'good-church-going-folk' who are supposed to love everyone and all that stuff. If the state really wants to retain the educated youth of this state, they really need to end the hatred and bigotry of the city council. I left this state last year right after I received my doctorate. And, may I say, I have never been happier. "

 Jim wrote on October 11, 2006 2:44 pm:
" If the gays would keep their junk out of the schools, maybe we wouldn't have so many problems with kids being confused "

 Sam B wrote on October 11, 2006 2:44 pm:
" My "deeply held family values" prompt me to support this grant, or any other grant that will keep our young people from taking their own lives, whatever their sexual orientation. Suicide prevention is suicide prevention, whether it comes from PFLAG or some other organization that bigots like Eschliman or Workman consider more amenable to their "deeply held family values." Simple logic should dictate that someone considering taking his or her own life because of fear about sexual orientation or of being harrassed or ridiculed by someone with "deeply held family values" would likely seek help from an organization like PFLAG than from a conventional suicide prevention organization. "

 Sean wrote on October 11, 2006 3:22 pm:
" The next time I hear either Ms. Eschliman or Mr. Workman refer to themselves as pro-life I am going to laugh out loud and remind them that they argued against helping to save the lives of those teens in such crisis. It seems the definition of hypocritical. "

 Christopher wrote on October 11, 2006 3:29 pm:
" The negative reactions to this grant are exactly what I would expect from a state that would approve a constitutional ammendment aimed squarely against gays. This is rediculous. I'm sure that there would have been absolutely no objections to this (at least not by Eschliman and Workman) if the money had been sent to a christian organization that was working to prevent suicide. Then the solution probably would have been "We'll prevent gay teen suicide by sending them to counselors that will turn them straight" Just stupid. Your job is to serve the public not dictate morality. Frankly I'm offended and irritated by a lot of the things the government spends my money on (like fighting for 416) yet the moral majority sees no problem with that. Tell you what... why don't you just give us our money back and we'll worry about our own kids. "

 Marv wrote on October 11, 2006 3:34 pm:
" A question I cant believe no one has asked yet. What are the other 7 grants going towards. I guess they should tax exempt gay and lesbian people seems there not worthy of grants. Then they can spend that taxs money towards things that will help them since some of our so called politicans dont want to. "

 Seriously! wrote on October 11, 2006 3:39 pm:
" So how about some tax dollars going toward Christian kids who are going through a tough time because of bigotry and intolerance for their beliefs? I can hear the screams of outrage by you all now! But seriously, folks, if my tax dollars get to go against something I don't agree with (funding stuff for gay people), why shouldn't tax dollars be used to support helping Christian kids deal with all the hate thrown their way? Does anyone consider what Christian kids may be going through when they see others get preferential treatment? Teens (gay or not) who commit suicide usually have issues anyway but did anyone ever think that these teens who are gay commit suicide because of their lifestyle? The gay community as a whole has a higher rate of suicide, as well as higher incidents of drug and alcohol abuse too. "

 Eric wrote on October 11, 2006 4:43 pm:
" This is truly disgusting. Eschliman and Workman should be ashamed of themselves. "

 Mother of Four wrote on October 11, 2006 4:51 pm:
" Let's get some prevention programs going to keep kids OUT of the gay lifestyle. Let's see some grants, guest speakers, assemblies, rallies and workshops on guiding young people away from this destructive path BEFORE they embark upon it, self-identify as gay, act out sexually, and start suffering all the consequences. My daughter's 18-year-old friend is gay, and we have been extremely supportive of him as a person while constantly talking with him about how to get OUT of the homosexual world. His mother absolutely HATES it that our tax dollars go for pro-gay programs like this, that "enable" kids to stay unhealthy and unhappy. "

 Cheri Marti wrote on October 11, 2006 5:23 pm:
" As a board member for the local PFLAG chapter, I would like to invite Mr. Workman, Ms. Eschliman and the citizens who wrote letters of concern, to learn more about our group. It's national in scope and we're the Lincoln chapter. Our intentions are education, advocacy and support for GLBT (gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender) persons, their families and friends. As one might guess, there is a definite need for PFLAG in the community. A safe place where people can be themselves without fear of debate, controversary, rejection or discrimination. One might take note of other statistics, like hate crimes, particularly acts of violence, which are most likely to be perpetuated on GLBT people, particularly gay men, which weighs itself out in Lincoln as well. In addition, we have politicians who would suggest by embracing "traditional values", that GLBT people and their allies are somehow lacking in their morality. People comment on this page how these are matters of choice, although science has proven this is not the case, not to mention the insulting nature of *choosing* not to believe somebody when they tell you they were born GLBT. Others on this page suggest that if the suicide rate is higher, it's because GLBT have mental health issues, and others write that one surely must be gay themselves (particularly on this page) if they support, accept and celebrate the love, qualities and gifts of the GLBT members in our community. And we wonder why life might prove particularly difficult for a teen realizing they may be a GLBT person? Knowing that this part of their identity is going to be considered "an abomination" by peers, adults, support systems and obviously, our leaders as well, causes overwhelming sorrow, distress, fear and pain. Yet people persist in their judgement. Your refusal to accept these people as they are, who are living "normal" lives along side the rest of us, causes untold harm. It doesn't threaten you or your family to *not* stand in the way of those of us who do wish to offer support. I hope you will choose to seek out more information, and open your mind and hearts to other possibilities. "

 BETTY wrote on October 11, 2006 5:55 pm:
" Mother of Four should attend a PFLAG meeting or visit the website to gather reliable information so that she truly can be supportive of her young friend. "

 just a thot to mom of 4 wrote on October 11, 2006 5:57 pm:
" to say you have been extremely supportive of the 18 year old while constantly talking to him about how to quit being gay (as if that were possible) is a contradiction in terms. maybe the disapproval from yourself and mom is actually what makes him unhealthy and unhappy. there are many gay/lesbian couples and families who are very balanced, happy, productive people. help support the 18 year old to make good relationship choices, regardless of gender! "

 jasper wrote on October 11, 2006 5:58 pm:
" Thank you Dan Marvin, for taking the time to do your research and the courage to say so. It's too bad the others didn't take the time to educate themselves. "

 To Mother of Four wrote on October 11, 2006 6:22 pm:
" Huh, what you said makes no sense. First of all it's not a lifestyle it's not a choice. The brains in homosexuals are wired differently in that they respond to sexaul pheromones in a different way than a heterosexual person does to one in the opposite sex. Also I love how you use your daughter's gay friend as an example, yet you never say if he's unhappy because of his sexuality or if he's unhappy because people like you do not simply accept him and love for the way he is. If being homosexual or straight is a choice, tell me when you chose for yourself the straight lifestyle? Wait, you didn't. "

 Jan wrote on October 11, 2006 6:31 pm:
" To the fools who think being gay is a choice. Do you know how many mothers I have talked to the knew there or daughter was gay when they were 2 or 3 years old? I'm just sure that 2 year old made that choice just like you chose to heterosexual. How stupid to even think that. "

 EP wrote on October 11, 2006 6:46 pm:
" Re: "Seriously!": Christian kids going through a tough time because of their beliefs? Are we living in the same state? As far as I can tell, people around here are assumed to be good little god-fearing Christians unless they happen to look Middle Eastern or be wearing a yarmulke. Admit you're an atheist and people will look at you like you've sprouted horns. To suggest that our society's attitudes toward a Christian teen's faith and toward a gay teen's orientation are likely to cause the same magnitude of "tough time"... wow. "

 ????? wrote on October 11, 2006 8:23 pm:
" I lived in Lincoln for many years, I think you can count the number of Lincolnites who truly have "deeply held traditional family values" is less than 10. I strongly object to the homosexual lifestyle, but to deny funding for suicide prevention is absurd. And yes Mr. Workman, there is a difference between taxes and keno money. "

 Seriously, Please Think! wrote on October 11, 2006 8:30 pm:
" Christianity is a choice, "Seriously". Hello??? Are you paying attention? Saying "Christians" are victims of discrimination and comparing them to the inequalities gay people suffer every day is ridiculous. If a young man in school wears a cross, he doesn't have to fear being beaten up. If he wears something with a rainbow or in regards to pride, he certainly does. To compare the two is outrageous! Sexual Orientation is NOT a CHOICE!! "

 John Denton wrote on October 11, 2006 8:44 pm:
" I find it hard to believe that some of the City Councilpersons can object so strongly because the money is focusing on gay and lesbian issues. Perhaps then, the council should consider the effects of having all tax payers money going to any programs that cross sexual orientation, racial, gender, or cultural guidelines for fear that someone might approve. Being a city leader sometimes means standing up for what is right. What's right is not always popular, and what's popular is not always right. "

 In Response to Mother of Four wrote on October 11, 2006 9:08 pm:
" Clearly the comment made by "Mother of Four" needs to take into consideration that the only people making the lives of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered (GLBT) persons lives miserable and perpetuating hate and unhappiness are the people like her. Being GLBT is not a lifestyle, it is a life. There are good and bad GLBT people, just as there are good and bad heterosexual people. Furthermore, I find it impossible to believe that she can be supportive of any self-identifying gay person with such a negative stereotypical and heterosexist personality. I sincerely hope that her daughter's friend is able to locate resources like PFLAG. More sadly still, is that "mother of four" is probably not a bad person herself, but merely misinformed. For all of the people who fail to understand the broader implications of these debates, they truly lack the understanding of the breadth and depth of hate in America. "

 PFLAG Member wrote on October 11, 2006 9:28 pm:
" I am a PFLAG Cornhusker board member also. I invite everyone to check out our local website: http://pflag.ineb.org/ and the national website: pflag.org. There is nothing there we want to hide. Gay kids go through sheer hell from the time they realize the feelings they are having toward their same sex friends are despised by society. They go through this hell completely alone. GLBT kids are the only minority that have no one to turn to. They cannot know how the people; parents, teachers, coaches, etc., they love and confide in will respond. Most minority kids have at the very least, their families to turn to. Take five minutes and put yourself in the shoes of a 13-14 year old shy gay girl. "

 suzanne benson wrote on October 11, 2006 9:48 pm:
" $1,500 is such a pitifully small amount of money. I'm ashamed that people are so worked up about this. Has anyone else figured out that bigotted behavior and close-minded attitudes like these are a main reason that many talented and educated young people can't wait to flee this state and never look back? Hate and intolerance are doing a lot to keep Nebraska down on the list of places young people (gay and straight) want to live. Brain drain, anyone? "

 Gary B wrote on October 11, 2006 10:05 pm:
" Jan, I'm intrigued...I have to know how a mother KNEW her kids were homosexuals when they were only 2-3 years old. "

 Gross. Just Gross. wrote on October 11, 2006 10:28 pm:
" That's my 4 cents. "

 Really Serious wrote on October 11, 2006 11:02 pm:
" Hope every one of you who voted for Eschliman are pleased with the radical right-wing conservative, Moral Majority, big business types who financed her campaign. We are not talking about leases, and square footages here - we are talking about real LIVE people who might be real DEAD people if they are not given the opportunity to find support from their community. "

 M wrote on October 11, 2006 11:47 pm:
" I am very happy to see that the majority of the posts here are from open-minded, caring individuals. Perhaps if we each donate $5 to PFLAG, and have all of our friends do the same, they would soon have more than the tiny little grant that was ripped out of their hands. "

 KidsRkids wrote on January 29, 2007 3:05 pm:
" As far as I'm concerned, suicide prevention should be a concern for all of us. It shouldn't matter that the person happens to be gay, lesbian, bisexual or heterosexual, nor should there be any difference because of race, creed, color or national origin. If 200 'professionals' see a need, I think they should be able to fund this, rather than going to a non-profit organization. "

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