dean, Tulsa (8/11/2009 7:11:25 PM)

A bat in search of a belfry.

DrewTU, (8/11/2009 7:16:08 PM)

Top priority? Seriously?

true2form, Grand Lake (8/11/2009 7:17:07 PM)

You can see animals at the Tulsa Zoo performing the acts of creationism most any day of the week!

cosmo7, (8/11/2009 7:17:10 PM)

As a bible believing church going dyed in the wool red state conservative I must say this is stupid.

2ndjoyce, BA (8/11/2009 7:19:50 PM)

I don't even live in Tulsa, but my "top priority" would be to eliminate this woman as a serious contender.

HospRx, Broken Arrow (8/11/2009 7:21:48 PM)

2ndjoyce I believe she just did that herself.

tfromtulsa, Tulsa (8/11/2009 7:24:06 PM)

Was installation of the Hindu god Ganesha discussed, vetted and resolved in a very public process involving the entire community and resolved with a public vote four years ago by the Parks Board?

I don't remember that one.

Why the difference?

HospRx, Broken Arrow (8/11/2009 7:25:33 PM)

t I don't believe the Ganesha was used to teach people about the Hindu religion, rather as a tool as to what people though about the powerful animal the elephant.

HospRx, Broken Arrow (8/11/2009 7:25:51 PM)

thought instead of though

farnam, TULSA (8/11/2009 7:27:55 PM)

A top priority? That makes it my priority that she isn't elected.

TonyQ, Tulsa (8/11/2009 7:29:21 PM)

tfromtulsa there aren't a lot of Hindus trying to be mayor and turn the city into a Hindu theocracy. That's one difference.

TonyQ, Tulsa (8/11/2009 7:30:19 PM)

Is there a mental health requirement for mayors? Stupid question?

T!ger,, Tulsa (8/11/2009 7:30:39 PM)

This is a wonderful idea! We need the good word of God out in the world. As a matter of fact, I think we need to get Bibles and Christianity talk back into our schools. Everyone needs to learn about our one and only true Loving God.

God Bless all of you!

tfromtulsa, Tulsa (8/11/2009 7:30:52 PM)

Then why is it called the "Hindu god Ganesha"?

Surely you're not serious.

Four Sixteen Rigby, (8/11/2009 7:31:50 PM)

I don't care whether the zoo has a creationism exhibit or not, but I also don't want the mayor wasting time on the issue.

FIX THE STREETS AND LOCK UP THE PREDATORY CRIMINALS!!!!!

Thunder196, Tulsa (8/11/2009 7:31:56 PM)

"It was initially approved by the Tulsa Park and Recreation Board, but the board later rescinded its decision in a second vote after a public outcry."
...
Is she under the illusion there wouldn't be a second public outcry? After the Sally Kern fiasco, how could she possibly think that.

tfromtulsa, Tulsa (8/11/2009 7:33:23 PM)

TonyQ - So Hinduism is acceptable, but Christianity is not. Thanks for the clarification.

tfromtulsa, Tulsa (8/11/2009 7:35:11 PM)

What if a Jewish person decided to run for mayor?

tfromtulsa, Tulsa (8/11/2009 7:36:24 PM)

dapple - Then Ganesha is illegal, too.

douglassm, tulsa (8/11/2009 7:37:17 PM)

how embarrassing ... for tulsa ... for oklahoma ... for the animals!
I'd rather see her in a cage - or padded cell.

Worried about the system, (8/11/2009 7:38:34 PM)

The original reason the Park Board approved the creationism display is that they were under the impression it would be displayed within the framework of a Creation Myths from Around the World presentation. The vote was immediately rescinded when it became apparent to them - as well as the zoo personnel - that the display being prepared was a huge plaque with a lengthy passage from Genesis meant to be portrayed as "science". The leadership at the zoo was completely opposed to the idea, which the Park Board's subsequent vote honored.

ralph5, Tulsa (8/11/2009 7:38:54 PM)

Anna is a nut job and a loose cannon. Nothing would be worse for our Tulsa than to have her as or mayor.

tornadoalley, jay (8/11/2009 7:40:48 PM)

A woman that has guts for Jesus,who stands up to truth.I know,Iknow you all cry fowl now but there will be a judgement day.

HospRx, Broken Arrow (8/11/2009 7:40:48 PM)

T you seem to be going off the deep end of christian persecution here. They named the statue that because that is what it is. If you want to make an animal associated statue and call it God, I am sure if it is a good enough statue that they may consider it, who knows try. Your point is that if one religion is personified why can't all, but again I don't think one statue personifies the whole of Hindu religion.

grizz, tulsa (8/11/2009 7:41:39 PM)

Stupid idea, but a brilliant political ploy to win a multitude of far right voters. Hopefully, not a majority. I'm sure Oral & his 600 foot buddy are pleased.

Thunder196, Tulsa (8/11/2009 7:41:40 PM)

There are two good places this display could be put. One... Next to the monkey exhibit or Two... Next to the ape exhibit. That way evolution and creationism could both be displayed at the same time.

kunta, (8/11/2009 7:51:42 PM)

You go girl!

Observer3, (8/11/2009 7:54:04 PM)

How soon can I vote for someone who really understands the important issues in Tulsa? This woman needs to go far, far away where she won't embarrass the citizens of Tulsa with her goofy ideas. This last mayor didn't get it, and neither does Ms. Falling.

Denver918, (8/11/2009 7:56:21 PM)

THANKFULLY she has no chance in hell of getting elected...

Worried about the system, (8/11/2009 8:00:20 PM)

You know those funny words tacked at the end of the words "Tulsa Zoo?? Those words, "And Living Museum" aren't just to make the place sound fancy. It's a designation that Zoo employees take pride in, and strive to maintain. It's why there aren't just animals, but educational exhibits that related to life sciences. A religion's emphasis on an animal, i.e. the Hindu god Ganesha, is presented in an educational context. The difference is the insistance that the Genesis display be presented as FACT, which it scientifically is not.

Michael L. Phillips, Sand Springs, OK (8/11/2009 8:04:15 PM)

On 8/11/2009 7:35:11 PM tfromtulsa asked:

"What if a Jewish person decided to run for mayor?"

One did/is. His name is Tom Adelson. And he is certainly not making an issue of his faith as a campaign issue.

T!ger,, Tulsa (8/11/2009 8:05:37 PM)

Wow you all are more worried about yourselves and the economy than you are loving Jesus! That has got to be the most selfish thing I have seen! To actually see someone who has guts for Jesus and trys to get his word out to his people is amazing! I think having this at the zoo would be great. I could go to work in the morning and see that the story of how we were created by God is there.

jett rink, (8/11/2009 8:15:14 PM)

"...but there will be a judgement day"

or, there won't be a judgement day...

Marguerite, The world is my home... (8/11/2009 8:15:44 PM)

Oh boy. It just gets more weird (i.e.weirder and weirder). This will be a campaign season bound to put Tulsa on the national map. Aren't we proud?

Karl, Tulsa (8/11/2009 8:16:35 PM)

Just what we need - our own Silly Sally. Anna is probably thinking: wow, it got Sally elected, maybe it will work for me.

Tiger, I want you to take your idea that everyone needs to learn about YOUR "one true and loving god" and ...

That is exactly why we have a Constitution that specifically ignores "god" - because others of us have different beliefs and entangling religion and government is the quickest route to destroying either one of them or both of them.

Keep your god out of my government.

Marguerite, The world is my home... (8/11/2009 8:17:10 PM)

On the other hand, I guess you've got to find issues where you can. And this is hers. At least she knows her niche -- and hopefully her limitations.

TonyQ, Tulsa (8/11/2009 8:17:56 PM)

tfromtulsa surely you can tell the difference between an artistic or historical display and one that specifically designed to promote religious beliefs over science.

florence, tulsa (8/11/2009 8:20:15 PM)

ttulsa...a Jewish person is running for mayor, and their not trying to make us all wear yamaca's (spelling subject to correction) their are also a couple of Catholics on the ballot, along with a bunch of other Christians and agnostics and whatever. None are making religion an issue.

Karl, Tulsa (8/11/2009 8:28:00 PM)

In order to put Anna on a level with Silly Sally, I propose that whenever we refer to her we call her Asinine Anna.

Anyone with me?

candyandnuts, (8/11/2009 8:30:24 PM)

the stupid, it burns!!!!!

Arbythree, Tulsa (8/11/2009 8:30:38 PM)

And she can see the Zebras from her front porch!

SnowNinja, Tulsa (8/11/2009 8:30:42 PM)

I agree with Falling. Let's forget about our sorry @ss street, lack of police, and sink some money into a statue at the zoo! If you want Falling to put something at the zoo, why not replace our bears that we lost this year!

Karl, Tulsa (8/11/2009 8:34:29 PM)

Just for practical reasons, think of this: If (IF) she is elected mayor and implements her TOP PRIORITY, I can guarantee that there will be at least three Civil Rights organizations that will bring suit against the city. And, while I can't guarantee the outcome, I will BET that they will lose and it will cost the city a ton of (your) money to defend that suit.
She is just being asinine.

Lance-a-lot, Tulsa (8/11/2009 8:34:31 PM)

Well, THIS is the most important thing on my list of Tulsa priorities (sarcasm intended).

Worried about the system, (8/11/2009 8:36:05 PM)

Yaki ... at what point exactly did beheading become a modern day punishment for acceptance and respect? Wait a minute ... Dick Cheney was somehow involved in this, wasn't he?

grizz, tulsa (8/11/2009 8:36:55 PM)

AA, I like that

douglassm, tulsa (8/11/2009 8:38:41 PM)

It should be an interactive exhibit hosted by an animatronic australopithecus afarensis. "Lucy" could walk us through both scenarios.

douglassm, tulsa (8/11/2009 8:41:12 PM)

No, she hadn't been discovered yet. Nor had the dinosaurs.

2ndjoyce, BA (8/11/2009 8:41:14 PM)

I just can't get over a mayoral candidate believing this is top priority and holding a press conference to say so. Not even in a good year.

Mar, Tulsa (8/11/2009 8:43:41 PM)

I believe in God and consider myself a Christian, but Ms. Falling just lost my vote.

douglassm, tulsa (8/11/2009 8:44:04 PM)

Yes, yes, and those who wear mixed fabrics and don't plant just one crop will be stoned to death, or something like that. And those pesky homosexuals (which oddly werent really mentioned according to intelligent interpretations of the original texts). And women? Slaves. Baby producing slaves, I tell you!

Anonymous Guy, Tulsa (8/11/2009 8:44:32 PM)

This is a nothing but a publicity stunt to increase the visibility of Ms. Falling's "ministry." She is only using the mayoral campaign to promote her primary occupation - the religion bidness.

Even Anna Falling knows that this is no way to win a mayor's race. Those of you who like her campaign platform are just the sort of sheeple that she is looking for.

douglassm, tulsa (8/11/2009 8:47:50 PM)

This "bible belt" is really just a tad bit too bedazzled with false, costume bling for my taste.

just passing through, (8/11/2009 8:50:50 PM)

TfmTulsa...

What she is saying she would do, hire only good, church going people, is illigal. Something about the 14th Amendment. It is a felony to hire based on religion.

To answer your bigger questions, though...

Yes, we are serious, and stop calling us Shirley.

Mar, Tulsa (8/11/2009 8:54:14 PM)

Why, Insider asks? Because there are way more important things that need to be done for Tulsa, like street repairs (which passed and has not been started yet), reduce the high crime rate, improve the economy, etc., etc.

I'm not sure who I will vote for yet, I'm a registered Republican, but I'm looking at all candidates. Ms. Falling will not be one.

Arbythree, Tulsa (8/11/2009 9:04:57 PM)

Snow she might make sense if she were not at the ZOO. Her handlers have got to be zoo keepers. Take your press conference to a crime area, an area with pot-holes, shoot, want to talk religion? Take it to a church.

Prediction= Anna gets 5% of the vote, and that's a stretch!

desert fox, (8/11/2009 9:09:36 PM)

Support her or God will get ya ! She is a few bales short of a stack.

tintulsa, Okmulgee (8/11/2009 9:11:29 PM)

I have to agree with "anonymous guy” and others; just a publicity stunt. But what a brilliant way to make questions about her(when on the council) and hubby's city recycling rip off a few years back. As I recall, a lot of unanswered questions about where the money went?

I still have one of the green recycle containers which was picked up all of twice in two months after signing up to pay extra for the program when a Tulsa resident.

Does anyone know if the zoo has cows? Maybe she and others would be satisfied if the zoo put up a "Fatted Cow" statue with a zoological explanation like the "Ganesha" statue does for the elephants. What a bunch of BS! As so many others have stated; ROADS and CRIME REDUCTION are much more important!

marvalea, Beggs (8/11/2009 9:16:11 PM)

Interesting! She hopes to recruit "those committed to their churches" - not necessarily "Christians" - as community leaders? A pastor of my childhood church used to say "going to church does not make one a Christian" (that was back when pastors actually visited the homes of the parishioners). As for "judgment day" and standing before Jesus ... I have no qualms standing before Him. He LIVED - and died - with love in his heart for all mankind. There are far too many "Christians" today that have become nothing more than religious zealots trying to enforce their sense of morality upon society rather than setting an example which others would want to emulate. I am a bit concerned, though, that if only "those committed to their churches" are appointed as community leaders, are we going to find ourselves suddenly living in communities divided by religious affiliation? And, just WHO is going to decide WHICH religious affiliation dominates? So, socialism is OK provided it is "Christian-based"?

By the way, is it just me, or does she kind of look like Ann Coulter?

Skeptic, Tulsa (8/11/2009 9:19:08 PM)

As I drive through Tulsa for work or play, "putting a Christian creationism display in the Tulsa Zoo (as) No. 1 in importance among city issues" is not what I'm thinking.

This lady is a freak!

remarkable, (8/11/2009 9:20:28 PM)

I am so tired of people abusing the term "christianity or christian" they automatically try to relate it to religous folks. 90% of people on this earth calls themsevles christian when they are not chrisitian as they define it as long as they are doing good works the call themselves christian. The bible does not recall how one becomes a christian because it is not their. it is the world system.

Arbythree, Tulsa (8/11/2009 9:20:43 PM)

Hey JC. Don't get that boot!

Jake Elwood, Tulsa (8/11/2009 9:20:44 PM)

Just for my clarification - Would God be happy or sad that we built cages to house the very animals that he painstakingly created the world for, to roam freely...

comparative , (8/11/2009 9:26:09 PM)

A new Borg Queen for the Borg Diamond.

2ndjoyce, BA (8/11/2009 9:27:02 PM)

Does that also apply to its people as well, Jake? I think you are on to something some people around here are not going to like. Let's hear that illegal immigration key rap now that we've all had a minute to think about roaming freely.

Your Conscience, (8/11/2009 9:32:08 PM)

Maybe she serves a purpose.... she holds up a mirror so Republicans can see how silly they look.

Denver918, (8/11/2009 9:33:35 PM)

Don't worry she has as much of a chance of winning as Ralph Nader does when he runs for President. Bartlett and/or Medlock will crush her in next month's primary. She can talk about a creationist exhibit all she wants, it's never going to happen and she will never be elected Tulsa mayor.

Jake Elwood, Tulsa (8/11/2009 9:39:55 PM)

I walked right into that one 2ndjoyce...one argument at a time here. I'm having too much fun with this one to divert my attention.

2ndjoyce, BA (8/11/2009 9:43:31 PM)

That's okay, Jake. No need to divert. I may steal it though, for another day!

billybob74135, Broken Arrow (8/11/2009 9:44:45 PM)

As a born again Christian I am against this idea because I feel like it is based more in making a political statement than it is an objective debate of the origins of life.

What squashed the idea last time is many donors said they would pull their donations if they went through with it. I bet that happens again!

im4osu, Broken Arrow (8/11/2009 9:47:42 PM)

Im all for it, anything can happen, look who we have as president.

Folly, (8/11/2009 9:51:17 PM)

Everyone wants their 15 minutes of fame. Give it to her and then let her disappear. Just don't let her win any political office.

loudshirt, (8/11/2009 10:07:41 PM)

I am all for creationism as a discussion. The Zoo is a scientific place and should only have hard scientific evidence on display. Not creationism.

rockfan, broken arrow (8/11/2009 10:10:14 PM)

Lets include a six foot python slithering along singing "Please allow me to introduce myself im a man of wealth and fame...."

James Young, Tulsa, Austin, Temecula (8/11/2009 10:10:40 PM)

I don’t believe that all of her Christmas lights are blinking.

tfromtulsa writes: {So Hinduism is acceptable, but Christianity is not. Thanks for the clarification.}

No, religion is not allowed into government. The problem with Christianity in particular is that Christians are always trying to sell their particular brand of snake oil. I have never had a rabbi or any other Jew try to convert me to Judaism and threaten me with eternal dam*nation were I not to convert. Likewise, my Hindu, Shinto and Buddhist friends. The only other religion that comes close to Christianity in terms of aggression in selling their wares is scientology.

Ayo, T-Town (8/11/2009 10:10:59 PM)

Oh good God. Well, she's entertaining.

Question: Why do Christians have to be born twice? A perfect God would have gotten it right the first time.

baldryan, Norman (8/11/2009 10:21:27 PM)

What the heck?

osupokie, Tulsa (8/11/2009 10:24:16 PM)

Is she related to Sally Kern? She just lost my vote. Anyone that has to prostitute out Jesus and religion to get a vote is a no vote for me.

WhereIsThought, Chandler (8/11/2009 10:28:49 PM)

Hey, let's not repress this woman's 1st ammendment right to question where the Sun goes at night.

jasouthard, Tulsa (8/11/2009 10:41:19 PM)

The woman is a nut case.

Harold Brookens 1, Tulsa (8/11/2009 10:45:53 PM)

And it's these my way and no other way, down your throat mentalities of our politicians that we can't have a civil discourse and get things accomplished for our communities.

yep, Tulsa County (8/11/2009 10:46:44 PM)

Why is there any religious stuff at all at the zoo? Don't you go to the zoo to learn about the animals? Aren't churches, mosques, temples etc. the place you go to learn about religion? I don't go to Quick Trip to buy running shoes, so this makes no sense.

But even though having religious stuff at the zoo makes no sense, if it is allowed there then all religions need to be able to participate equally and freely.

theharp1, (8/11/2009 10:58:41 PM)

Wow. The Tulsa World is carrying the water for the Democrats. I'm shocked, I tell you! Shocked!

This article is quite obviously a liberal "journalist" (using that term VERY loosely) doing his best to discredit Falling. Can't believe you people don't recognize spin when you see it...as you surely prefer to be spoon-fed the CNN, NBC, CBS, FOX, MSNBC, ABC news light, sweet, extra libby, with whipped cream.

Mr Barber followed the template set by his national counterparts during their destruction of Huckabee. You remember, don't you? Constantly taking his remarks out of context, ignoring any real ideas he may have had, ignoring any actual experience he had (so much more than O!) We had to hear "He said God told him to run" "He said God told him to run" over and over in the media.

Wake up, people. Journalism is dead. There is no unbiased reporting out there anymore.

If you people really want to know about the candidates and make an intelligent, informed decision like a responsible voter, you'll disregard anything you read from the slanted Tulsa World and GO TO THE CANDIDATES' TOWN HALLS. Ask them your own questions. Get specific...find out THEIR answers (not those that the World chooses to highlight) and THEN make a decision. I'm going to guess none of you will be there.

For the record, at this point I have very little knowledge of any of the candidates, and I'm not stumping for Falling or anyone else. I was just noticing the BLATANT media bias, and the sheeple who loved this article.

PPilot, Tulsa (8/11/2009 11:23:48 PM)

Put the creationism display next to the flat earth display.

SteveBrown777, tulsa (8/11/2009 11:24:02 PM)

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH AHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA, *GASP FOR BREATH* HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH AHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHAHAHAHA AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHHAHAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH haha haaa ha .....
....oh..Tulsa....
HAHAHAHAHA

tfromtulsa, Tulsa (8/11/2009 11:42:53 PM)

yep - EXCELLENT point.

tulsa_common_sense, tulsa (8/11/2009 11:46:53 PM)

tornadoalley, jay (8/11/2009 7:40:48 PM)
A woman that has guts for Jesus,who stands up to truth.I know,Iknow you all cry fowl now but there will be a judgement day.

>>>
hrmm yes there will be judgment day. and that day will be at the election. so what truth is there to have a display and a call that we need to have only judeo-christians in place of power? I mean they cant be trusted. they prey on young boys. they have affairs on there wives and husbands. they use the bible as a tool to push hate. and why should someones religious belief come into play when it comes to city maters? i for one cannot believe anyone would agree with anything kern or this lady has to say. but then again i have to remember allot has been brainwashed. good luck with you. i will see you at judgement day as i sit watching you be rejected due to your ideals and thinking Jesus would want this.

tulsa_common_sense, tulsa (8/11/2009 11:55:49 PM)

Yakimoto, Tulsa (8/11/2009 8:31:09 PM)
Insider - "Teach universal love man. Accept people for who they are and respect them for what their religious beliefs."

That's a little hard to do when they're CUTTING YOUR HEAD OFF

>>

yup or burn you at a stake or put you in the maiden. or claim your un-american. or try to kill an entire society cause it doesnt believe in your god. those heathens. dont forget you cant dance in public. its ok to fondle little boys but not ok to dance in public. its ok to send dirty emails to your pages. but not dance in public. you remember the movie dont ya? story based on the baptist religious banning on dancing that was put into law in a small town in the midwest.

tulsa_common_sense, tulsa (8/12/2009 12:09:37 AM)

Yakimoto, Tulsa (8/11/2009 10:16:38 PM)
Ayo - "Question: Why do Christians have to be born twice? A perfect God would have gotten it right the first time."

He did. Man fell.

God still loved us and wanted to provide a way for us to be reconciled to Him. Jesus "God with us", the only name under Heaven by which one can be saved, sinless ... took our fall, our sin, upon himself and became the sacrifice. To accept Him is being "born again."

God makes no mistakes. Man sealed his fate as eternal separation from God. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life ... no man cometh to the Father but by Him.
>>
you smoking the opium again arnt ya? has to be some fresh good stuff from Afghanistan. the problem is i didnt fall. you are not born tainted. sorry to say but no where in the bible does it say you are born tainted. you may have but i hadnt. i was born pure and clean. god supposedly gives us a choice. how about you let us use those choices he gave us to choose.

the problem with religion is religion does not bring faith. if you need a building and a book for faith then you have problems. I need neither.

not your friend 2,,,, missy, no thanks (8/12/2009 12:10:00 AM)

Judea christians.sounds foreign.

Edlin, (8/12/2009 12:11:27 AM)

putting a Christian creationism display in the Tulsa Zoo is No. 1 in importance
But she said she wants to embrace people of all religions, not alienate them.
DUH!!!
Let the church handle it. Run on the issues like fixing the roads.

curlyjackwire, (8/12/2009 12:15:47 AM)

@tornadoalley - when I "cry fowl" my wife cooks me a chicken dinner. When I hit a ball to the far right of the foul pole Dan Hicks is there.

Bedazzled, (8/12/2009 12:15:51 AM)

She is out. Get rid of her, we do not need another nut in power. She thinks this will help her win.

Bedazzled, (8/12/2009 12:18:01 AM)

This must be at the bottom of my list, like never.

tulsatk74115, Tulsa (8/12/2009 12:29:18 AM)

Karl...you say you want to keep God out of your
government, what kind of money do you use in your daily life? Is it U.S. Currency? If you take a look at it I'm quite sure you will see the words "In God We Trust", so if you are opposed to God then I suggest you give away all of your money and worldly possessions because you have stated that you do not believe in him!

dslat, Tulsa (8/12/2009 12:35:28 AM)

"Yes folks, that is a saddle on a dinosaur." Religulous

What a laugh and a half! This lady is next going to have the Planetarium make the sun revolve around the Earth for an exhibit.

Goddess_of_Groovy, Tulsa (8/12/2009 12:45:52 AM)

Okay, let me get this straight. We have one bus a month to the Tulsa Zoo, no bussing in poorer parts of town, and no buses on Sundays, AND we NEED to spend money on a display that is religious in nature?

If these "politicians" would actually think about the people of Tulsa, and not their individual interests, the world would be happier place! I liken this to Bush going into Iraq, when the terrorists we were supposed to be getting were from Afgahnistan and Saudi. I liken this to spending millions on bailouts for companies who should have been allowed to sink and come out leaner and meaner. I liken this to spitting on the constitution. But hey, I am just your average citizen who does not know what is really good for me. Lie to me some more!

lipschitz, tulsa (8/12/2009 12:46:03 AM)

here is an idea let us force each airline to paint the airplanes with cohabitating animals.
that way we could get THE WORD out to millions
on any single day....

Bedazzled, (8/12/2009 12:50:07 AM)

Moto, I grew up learning the Bible and going to church for years. Who are you kidding. She is grandstanding for votes as she thinks people in this town are stupid enough to fall for that again after it worked for the last Administration. Read the book the Family.

Bedazzled, (8/12/2009 12:52:00 AM)

Goddess_of_Groovy, you hit this on the nailhead.

tornadoalley, jay (8/12/2009 1:35:42 AM)

There are Christians that have fallen into filthy no good sin,fondeling little boys and stealing money and so on and so on.But that does not mean that all Christians do the same thing.Can you prove this woman thats running in this election has done those types of things?I doubt that any of you can.Yes she has guts for Jesus and just maybe more than most.I knew I would get a few bad things throwed at me.But blessed is he who is reviled,hated and persecuted for the name of Christ.

Chautauqua, (8/12/2009 2:09:00 AM)

Hinduism isn't a monotheistic religion, for one. Second, the Ganesha display is part of a larger display that show how animals (remember, this is a zoo.) are regarded in other cultures. Ganesha is an elephant.

If you can't see the difference, you are either being obtuse, or are not very bright.

Astro1, (8/12/2009 2:41:18 AM)

tfromtulsa:
"What if a Jewish person decided to run for mayor?"

It's fine that Tom Adelson is running for mayor. He would make a good one, and I will vote for him. In answer to your question, it's fine, as long as he doesn't outlaw eating pork and shrimp. And you know, I don't think he would try to make all of Tulsa conform to his religious beliefs.

PhoenixIX, Jenks (8/12/2009 3:15:24 AM)

Ms. Falling just earned my vote !

PhoenixIX, Jenks (8/12/2009 3:27:29 AM)

Ms. Falling just earned my vote!

copperhead, (8/12/2009 3:35:47 AM)

*** Simply put, she's simply a teat short of an utter. ***

rdhm, (8/12/2009 3:58:21 AM)

Why doesn't she start taxing the churches to help pay for this?

gba, (8/12/2009 5:05:06 AM)

she's kidding,right?
right?
please someone tell me she's kidding,right?

Mr. Tweedy, Tulsa (8/12/2009 5:35:03 AM)

Hey tulsatk74115, I use credit cards which don't say 'God' anywhere on them. However, if you want to be picky, US paper money didn't have that motto on there until 1957 when it was added during the height of the communist scare. Of course, I do find it humourous that Jesus told his followers to sell all of their money and possessions and give to the poor, so the modern Christians decide to smear God's name all over their currency to prove how 'Christian' they are. (hey - you brought it up)

ZenIsWhen, (8/12/2009 6:17:53 AM)

Someone should get this (cough) lady a copy of the Constitution .... and then get someone to explain it to her.
"Judeo-Christian science that proves God as the creator" .... not in this universe.
The zoo has an elephant statue; big deal. Where's the evidence that it has anything to do with Hinduism.

Sure - her "christian fanatics" government is going to honor and respect other religious beliefs.... Just like Torquemada did.

Alan Shore, (8/12/2009 6:22:54 AM)

Making a zoo display the No. 1 priority in a town with Tulsa's troubles should quickly eliminate this hack from the competition...

SS_Hippy, Tulsa (8/12/2009 6:25:51 AM)

Next time make that speech by the Monkey Island. see if they laugh and throw "stuff".

QLC, (8/12/2009 6:45:16 AM)

Ok Anna, you have had your 15 minutes, go back to wherever you have been wallowing. You're so over.

DebbyANYC, Bronx (8/12/2009 7:29:20 AM)

Ah, a member of the Tulsa Taliban! Makes this 3rd generation Okie (who happens to be Jewish) proud to know that our lives would be incomplete without this type of nonsense being shoved down our throats. Wake up and smell the coffee lady!

Bison3, Tulsa (8/12/2009 8:15:47 AM)

I have to hand it to Anna Falling. Coming out that early with a religious agenda makes it much easier for me to know that I need to vote for the other guy, whoever it is!!

Matt W., Tulsa (8/12/2009 8:31:00 AM)

i'm sorry... this lady is INSANE!!!! i'm not trying to upset anyone here, but... do you creationism fans not ever watch discovery or national geographic, when they have the new discovery shows on? one of my personal biggest issues with creationism... where were the dinosaurs? i mean... if the earth was created a few days before man was created... were the dinosaurs just floating in space? if so, how is it they made it from floating in space to burried in the earth? anyone? it's just something i can't quite grasp...

52favoriteteacher, Washburn--used to be Broken Arrow (8/12/2009 8:40:53 AM)

Talking God always incites people's best and worst.

Funny tho how the Muslims are given plenty of reign

for their agenda--taking over this formerly

Christain nation...

drudge2, Tulsa (8/12/2009 9:19:39 AM)

My guess is that she looked at Sally Kern and thought: "Crazy? You call that crazy? I'll show you crazy!"

Odd that her #1 priority is dividing the city and to dedicate her first year in office battling lawsuits that she created. Interesting display of leadership.

I suspect her #2 priority is getting more recycle contracts for her friends.

As the Tulsa World wrote in 2000: "A nearly three-month investigation conducted by the auditor's office revealed that misrepresentations, irregularities and potential technical violations of law had occurred in Falling's handling of her program."

wotko, Sapulpa (8/12/2009 9:20:17 AM)

The Hindu statue at the zoo is their to show how some people revered and honored the elephant. The statue being religous is a secondary fact. Its not like it is the Tulsa Zoo & Living Museum & Hindu Temple.

Hopefully, Anna's God will cast down a lightning bolt to smote her or at least make her a mute. While we are at it someone better check that Jesus guy for a green card. . . sounds like a Mexican name to me. . .

All of you people harping about Jesus and Judgement Day would be wise to remember that some people aren't Christian and don't believe in your religion. To me hell would be to be stuck in "hell" with a bunch of Christians for enternity.

Remember people go to the zoo to see animals and exhibits not the Christian God.

SS_Hippy, Tulsa (8/12/2009 9:24:45 AM)

why do i I like good looking crazee Republican ladies so much? is there something wrong with me?
You Betcha!

Navin Johnson, Tulsa (8/12/2009 9:35:09 AM)

Well she's pretty much sealed her mayoral fate, hasn't she?

Ray, (8/12/2009 10:17:37 AM)

Why is she wasting our time? Why do the TV stations give her any time? Dumb

Arbythree, Tulsa (8/12/2009 10:17:42 AM)

SS_Hippy, you really think she is "good looking"?

Wow, I might say pretty, as in pretty crazy.

A Concerned Citizen, (8/12/2009 10:23:43 AM)

Translation: I have no hope of being elected on the issues, so I'll throw around the word "Jesus" and hope I can fool enough people into voting for me.

It's not as if it hasn't worked before. *cough* Sally Kern *cough*

Cooldaddy, Broken Arrow (8/12/2009 10:32:49 AM)

I understand where Falling and Kern are coming from. I hope though, they do their thing in the right way.

wkmd, Tulsa (8/12/2009 10:37:43 AM)

Grizz, I agree with you but hind sight tells all, it wasn't a 900 foot Jesus. I think what Oral saw was actually Apache Cheif the Giant from the Superfriends. He was looking for a prime spot for a casino.

happy to help, (8/12/2009 10:44:36 AM)

can we just have a dam Noah's ark display and call it good? Jeez

RGM, (8/12/2009 10:45:13 AM)

The exhibit at the zoo about the Hindu god is NOT religious. It is about the animal. It ISN'T about creation.

The Christians don't have an animal icon belonging at the Zoo, that would be a false idol. If there WAS an animal representative of Christian faith, then by all means, put up a mention of it.

Oh wait, there is. Isn't it a fish? Put up a picture of the Christian fish next to the shark tank then.... that way the Christian overseers don't eat you alive.

BTW - I am Christian and go to the Zoo on a regular basis.

Bison3, Tulsa (8/12/2009 10:53:29 AM)

Cooldaddy: I hope that you're not disappointed but Anna has already started off on the wrong foot!! With crime on the rise and an infrastructre that is crumbling, she wants to start off by putting a religious monument at the zoo!! To me, that's about like saying "if I am elected mayor, I promise to give the Golden Driller a spit shine!!" So far her "political platform" makes absolutely no sense. Like her contemporaries Sally Kern and Mike Ritze, she has her priorities bass ackwards!! She has no real agenda so she starts throwing Jesus' name around in hopes that she can scare the voters into giving her the nod.If you care about Tulsa and the direction it's going, you'd do well to drop your support of Anna like a bad habit!!

18thandBoston, (8/12/2009 10:58:06 AM)

how embarrassing

IrishQuaker, (8/12/2009 11:02:47 AM)

Take a look at her website Q&A. She plans to solve the city's problems by bringing her coalition of churches to city hall, e.g., police, schools, public transportation, all to be covered by the church. Of course I imagine that she would like to distribute the whole city budget to her selected churches.

BTW, I didn't realize that there was a "Christian" creation story. The only New Testament creation reference I remember is the opening of John.

uklynbereg, (8/12/2009 11:20:43 AM)

Tulsa already has Jim Inhoffe. Isn't that enough?

SS_Hippy, Tulsa (8/12/2009 11:24:31 AM)

Pretty crazy, i like that Arby3.

gruner, Tulsa (8/12/2009 11:34:34 AM)

Mrs Fallling needs to convert to Islam where she can promote an autocratic and theocratic state. She already has the speech down pat.

Oldfatdude, Whoville (8/12/2009 11:36:12 AM)

Well, apparently she has been able to unify most of Tulsa. The Sane liberals and conservatives are all against her.

Any supporters she has remaining, will remain insane.

happy8003104b, Tulsa (8/12/2009 11:37:07 AM)

She certainly got everyone talking

Oldfatdude, Whoville (8/12/2009 11:37:13 AM)

Didn't she use to be on Saturday Night Live? Seems like I remember a "Church Lady".

SS_Hippy, Tulsa (8/12/2009 11:53:53 AM)

Where is Cowboy Bob Dog, i'd like to get an animal's point of view on all this.

Jumbo, (8/12/2009 11:54:57 AM)

Where does she go to church? I want to go there and put up an evolution exhibit.

Skits Milloy, Tulsa (8/12/2009 11:57:08 AM)

I just don't understand how she could think this was a TOP priority.

I wonder what the final cost will be. I mean, I just want to know how much money she is burning to buy the Christian vote. I mean really...haha. Schools? Pssh! Joblessness? Whatever. Creationsim display? It's fundamental to our city!!!!!!

Arbythree, Tulsa (8/12/2009 11:58:11 AM)

Good one Jumbo!!

FS, Broken Arrow (8/12/2009 12:04:18 PM)

If the witch would simply have another affair, she might remain occupied ...

tulsa_common_sense, tulsa (8/12/2009 12:05:33 PM)

ulsa lack of sense - I must conclude you have NEVER read or heard any teachings of the Bible. How sad for you.

Your comments only serve to make you look ignorant. Perhaps you should trying knowing something before commenting?

>>
you would be suprised at what i know. the problem is i have read the bible. not once but a couple times. great fiction. I choose to look at the book as a whole not as parts to suit my needs by picking and choosing what to highlight on a given chosen topic. Unlike you I am willing to accept others for there beliefs just as i accept you for your twisted beliefs thinking your a better christian then i am. but remember what god has also taught us and that is acceptance of your fellow human. to do unto others. you know that 1 golden rule? the only one i live by. I dont need 10 commandments as the only rule i need to live by is that one single one. how about trying to actually living by gods rules set in the bible as a whole and not what you can try to wiggle out of.

and with all that said i can only summarize that you are one who would truely believe God was going to kill ol oral if he didnt get yuor donations right?

douglassm, tulsa (8/12/2009 12:07:24 PM)

Get this lady some Cocoa Puffs.

Joe E., Tulsa Metro Area (8/12/2009 12:07:45 PM)

theharp1, (8/11/2009 10:58:41 PM)

{Wow. The Tulsa World is carrying the water for the Democrats. I'm shocked, I tell you! Shocked!}

Would you care to provide an example in this article where a quote is taken out of context?

Or are you just blowing smoke?

douglassm, tulsa (8/12/2009 12:13:50 PM)

For a "christian," Yak, you carry around a lot of accusatory hatred. It tends to block any of the love you hopefully aspire to.

Proud Muslim, Tulsa: Coolest place in the world (almost) (8/12/2009 12:13:57 PM)

"the Muslims are given plenty of reign

for their agenda--taking over this formerly

Christain nation..."


That's right. We're slowly taking over the US. Move to Canada while you still can.
Bwahahahahaha!
(Yes, I'm being sarcastic.)

I'd like to know how a display at the zoo is a "priority".

billy8, Sand Springs (8/12/2009 12:14:08 PM)

Where are the agnostic and atheist free thinking canidates? they would just cover the issues, like streets and taxes etc.... But what fun would that be, no contraversy.

tulsa_common_sense, tulsa (8/12/2009 12:14:17 PM)

52favoriteteacher, Washburn--used to be Broken Arrow (8/12/2009 8:40:53 AM)
Talking God always incites people's best and worst.

Funny tho how the Muslims are given plenty of reign

for their agenda--taking over this formerly

Christain nation...
>>

when did the US become a christian nation? i see nothing in the constituion that says this. i see nothing in the founding documents either. or are you meaning just because those of white ilk had a religious back ground? in all honesty the vikings i do believe were not Christians i believe they were pegans. the indians idolized nature. the spanish were catholics. then you had the puritans and the protestants. so which one is the one true religion we have to follow and which one true religion was this country founded on? cause if this were truely a puritan nation then we have surly gone off the deep end. and if we are catholic same thing. and baptists well we dont need to go there cause lord knows the founding fathers did like to dance.

Joe E., Tulsa Metro Area (8/12/2009 12:24:12 PM)

billy8, Sand Springs (8/12/2009 12:14:08 PM)

{Where are the agnostic and atheist free thinking canidates?}

Are you kidding? The country is about to have a melt-down because a whole bunch of people can't handle a black president, and you think an atheist could even have a chance?

Joe E., Tulsa Metro Area (8/12/2009 12:26:45 PM)

When asked whether she meant Christian churches, she said, "churches, yes."

That's the funniest part of the whole article.

mkmarciaw, (8/12/2009 12:28:48 PM)

wow-seems she struck a nerve here. Maybe some need to ask themselves "why be offended by this honest effort to work on root cause of rot in this city?" lets here "your solutions"? I think it is time we all look inward and upward myself cause nothing else is working here or anywhere else in our nation that i see! Now, "show me", I may be the ignorant one here" other ideas....if not stop slandering this awesome Lady!

billy8, Sand Springs (8/12/2009 12:30:15 PM)

Yes I do, there would be no religious ideals to convey to the public to get votes, just the truth. The belief in a god has nothing to do with politics, read the constitution. And discrimination against religion or no religion is against the constitution. Elect people for what they can do to enrich the country, not for what god they like.

Proud Muslim, Tulsa: Coolest place in the world (almost) (8/12/2009 12:30:59 PM)

Exactly, mkmarciaw. The lack of a display at the Tulsa zoo is the cause of all our problems.

Bison3, Tulsa (8/12/2009 12:37:23 PM)

Teach, this used to be a spiritual nation at least until the Christians got here. I would offer that the Indian tribes were and are much more spiritual than ANY Christian group!! This is by no means and never shall be a "Christian nation" and thank God for it!! I don't know where you come up with this stuff!! Quick Teach, Jesus...Christian or Jew?

Alix Smart, (8/12/2009 12:42:10 PM)

zebras are reactionary, elephants are kindly but their dumb

Alix Smart, (8/12/2009 12:43:12 PM)

monkeys support the big bang theory!!

Ignatz, Broken Bow (8/12/2009 12:44:05 PM)

The only thing smart folks should be asking is just who are the people who take this ding bat seriously? Cuckoo, cuckoo.....ah, those wacky Republicans.

SS_Hippy, Tulsa (8/12/2009 12:45:15 PM)

i don't agree with the Zoo Display and i do agree with seperation of Church and state.
BUT her plan of enlisting the local Church (and by its extension the local community) to help stave off drug use and the downward spiral it creates, sounds pretty good to me.

J, (8/12/2009 12:47:20 PM)

I'm a Christian, but the Zoo is not my church. Even as much faith as I have, I know it's theology and not science. I've never had an issue with anything there, plus if you want to go to a Creationism museum, they're out there.

As far as being reminded about how Christian Tulsa (and the surrounding areas) are, just drive by any corner and see all the churches, start-up ministries and people waving bibles in the air. Of course, if you need a further reminder, just read half the bumper stickers while you're stuck in traffic.

psychedelikrelik, Tulsa (8/12/2009 12:47:48 PM)

"Bodhisattva would you take me by the hand..."

Watching TV last night I had to laugh out loud at a line from Law and Order...the guy being questioned said "You think I killed her? My god, I'm a Buddhist!"

psychedelikrelik, Tulsa (8/12/2009 12:52:16 PM)

"Yes she has guts for Jesus..."

No, she doesn't. She knows her base, and she's manipulating you foolish, foolish people.

Kern, Falling, Ritze, etal...stop embarassing Oklahoma!

getreal, (8/12/2009 12:54:34 PM)

I have the following concerns for the new mayor;

- Wor to lower the rate of murder. We are well above NYC per capita and we are the buckle of the Bible belt.
- Fix the streets (this could have several positions)
- Bring more quality jobs
- Figure how to pay for services with a decreasing sales tax base

This should be enough for any one person over four years. As far as religion, leave that to the area religious leaders. Quit quacking about issues the mayor should not be trying to resolve.

Bison3, Tulsa (8/12/2009 12:54:39 PM)

SSHippy, if her plan was to enlist churches for that purpose, I'm all for it. How she has gone horribly wrong is to make job #1 the installation of a religious plackard at the zoo and to prosleytize to us. Now how is that staving off drug useage? She would better serve her purpose to work with faith-based groups and stay far away from government!!!

Rocketman, Tulsa (8/12/2009 12:58:33 PM)

Buddhist are good at setting themselves on fire, using gasoline. Anna Falling set herself on fire using her tounge.

former tulsan 808, kailua kona (8/12/2009 1:04:31 PM)

the ideas this woman is presenting as a mayoral candidate would seem to me to present tulsa in an extremely negative manner both to the rest of the nation and the world. the ganesh statue at the tulsa zoo is, to my understanding, just that - a statue - not a murti, or a statue which has received prana pratishta, or the establishing of life ceremony by a hindu priest for puja, or religious celebration. the zoo statue relates to the elephants at the zoo and has no religious significance, hindu or otherwise.

Tedd, Tulsa (8/12/2009 1:07:28 PM)

Keep your dogma to yourself. There's no place for it in a public forum. I don't subscribe to your lunacy!

tulsa_common_sense, tulsa (8/12/2009 1:17:30 PM)

mkmarciaw, (8/12/2009 12:28:48 PM)
wow-seems she struck a nerve here. Maybe some need to ask themselves "why be offended by this honest effort to work on root cause of rot in this city?" lets here "your solutions"? I think it is time we all look inward and upward myself cause nothing else is working here or anywhere else in our nation that i see! Now, "show me", I may be the ignorant one here" other ideas....if not stop slandering this awesome Lady

>>

because lack religion is not the cause of the rot of this city. the problem with this city is the lack of communication and community. we as a community need to help our neighbors. instead i find most are out for themselves. yes donating money can lend assistance but when was the last time yuo actually got involved? when was the last time you went to a city council meeting? when was the last time you attended a town hall? when did you last help on pick up trash day? when you see trash do you walk by or pick it up? when was the last time you took time to help out at a homeless center? when was the last time you and your family went and helped someone you didnt know? it starts at home not at the city and religion doesnt enforce all of this. instead religion teachs us how to say we are better then our neighbors. religion is not the bible religion is not faith. religion is a name and label one chooses to put on things.

Oldfatdude, Whoville (8/12/2009 1:45:43 PM)

tulsa_common_sense said "instead religion teachs us how to say we are better then our neighbors. "

You're better than me? If I cared what you think, I might want to argue that point.

Perhaps Ms Failing, or Flailing, or Falling (whatever) should gather her followers and get the flock out of here. Go to Alaska and team up with Ms. Sorry Phailin to save Wasilla.

Basil, Tulsa (8/12/2009 1:57:06 PM)

We need to re-evluate the proper place of faith in public life, because the current attitude that faith should be completely absent from public schools and institutions is wrong, and a complete contradition to the intent of our founders to allow the free excercise of relgion, in whatever manner the majority wills, as long as they allow other people to practice their religions also.

We will never have an official religion, but we should be able to have relgious expression fully integrated in public life. I don't know if I care if the zoo has a creation display, but if the majority desire something like that, the rest of us will have to show some tolerance for the majority culture we live within. Those who have no tolerance for the will of the majority are acting like tyrants, by attempting to deny them the right to freely express their faith publically.

Basil, Tulsa (8/12/2009 2:00:18 PM)

All things have been created by God, and reminding ourselves that the created world could not have happened by chance or by our own limited abilities is a great thing to do at all times.

SoonerBabyBoomer, Tulsa (8/12/2009 2:12:06 PM)

Tulsa World - Thank you for publishing this article. There are a lot of people running for mayor and this woman will be crossed off my list.

billy8, Sand Springs (8/12/2009 2:49:08 PM)

Putting up a display of creationism at the zoo is like putting up a big lie and showing that Tulsa is anti science. Why not put up a display of all mythological dieties and superstitions, and while we're at it, display your belief in conspiracies too.

Basil, Tulsa (8/12/2009 3:09:08 PM)

True science instructs us and informs us on verifiable, repeatable physical phenomenon, but it cannot address spirituality, because it lacks to tools to answer the ultimate questions about whether God exists or any spiritual realities, since they exist beyond the visible material world. Science is great for discussing material realities, but it cannot weigh in on spiritual matters one way or another.

In these matters the only intellectually honest thing is for science to remain neutral and allow open debate, rather than the current censorship that exists in public schools, which dumbs down the discussion of faith and science to the point that many people lack a basic understanding of their relationship and cannot discus it intelligently. Some of the above comments reflect this problem.

James Young, Tulsa, Austin, Temecula (8/12/2009 3:09:21 PM)

Basil writes: {We need to re-evluate the proper place of faith in public life, because the current attitude that faith should be completely absent from public schools and institutions is wrong, and a complete contradition to the intent of our founders to allow the free excercise of relgion, in whatever manner the majority wills, as long as they allow other people to practice their religions also.}

First, the founders’ first goal was to protect government from intrusion by religion. The exercise clause cannot and should not ever supersede the establishment clause. Therefore, assuring the absence of faith from public institutions supersedes the right to practice or exhibit one’s religion by using the authority and dignity of the state. No laws have been proposed to restrict the practice of one’s religion in private places so you are free to engage in ritualistic cannibalism of Jesus, to have make-believe sex with snakes or to prefer the Marinara Branch over the Alfredo Branch of Pastafarianism without disruption by the state.

One reason we have the Constitution is to protect the rights of minorities from the tyranny of the majority. Just because some majority wills something does not make it acceptable so the final two clauses of your sentence are not true at all.

{ . . .but we should be able to have relgious expression fully integrated in public life.}

I strongly disagree. Religious dogma must be kept completely separated from public life, which is, by definition, secular.

okcworldfan, Oklahoma City (8/12/2009 3:10:54 PM)

She was really elected to the city council? I can't believe it...oh yeah, people on this end of the turnpike elected Sally Kern. Are people stupid or do they just not care?

Basil, Tulsa (8/12/2009 3:11:57 PM)

If science can defend its premise, that all happened by chance, then they have nothing to fear from open debate about this in our schools and publically. What even happened to academic excellence and the free exchange of ideas and debate? We raising a whole society of fools, who cannot adequately address these issues and speak intelligently about them.

TiredofOKLAhypocrits, (8/12/2009 3:12:34 PM)

What an idiot.

RJMosk, Tulsa (8/12/2009 3:16:10 PM)

It must be the heat and humidity that brings out the 'weird' folks in Oklahoma! Or perhaps it is inherent in religious zealots who have the unmitigated gall to demand that 'their' faith is the best solution to the world's problems. Well, I hate to be the bearer of dreadful news to the these delusional individuals and groups...'their' religion has been less than successful in bringing about less poverty, hunger, war, and 'goodwill' in the world. It could be that being a good citizen and obeying the law of the land is a reasonable and respectful solution for all Oklahomans, regardless of their faith, ethnicity or color. What is desperately needed here, is a modicum of intelligence, among those who are so deluded and needy that they speak jibberish! Quotation:
"The mind of a bigot is like the pupil of the eye; the more light you pour upon it, the more it will contract." Oliver Wendell Holmes,Jr.

mkmarciaw, (8/12/2009 3:21:15 PM)

well i know i didn't evolve from a monkey or slime..................

Ignatz, Broken Bow (8/12/2009 3:23:25 PM)

Basil,depends on your definition of "chance." I assume all came about by a natural process that science will most likely be able to explain someday, maybe not soon, eventually. Using only the imagination or the crude story tellings of a Bronze Age tribe to come up with supernatural explanations for natural occurances doesn't really belong in any kind of scientific inquiry. Einstein said "God doesn't roll dice."

hadenuf, (8/12/2009 3:31:50 PM)

I love it when the godless libs twist in the wind. It means they are at least thinking about it.

Respighi, (8/12/2009 3:32:38 PM)

Falling must think God is pretty dumb. I think the pandering to God is quite obvious. I bet God can see through it, too.

Rocketman, Tulsa (8/12/2009 3:41:24 PM)

James,

Or was it the founders intention to keep the government out of religion?

mkmarciaw, (8/12/2009 3:42:17 PM)

what is all the talk about coming up with funding for this "statue"??? its not a statue it is a nicely framed picture depicting Genesis 1 it was beautifully done and paid for already by the Hicks family and donated to the zoo. The ignorance out
there is scarey! At least she is trying to speak up for truth! This country was founded on Christianity and lets see how you loud mouthing folks like losing the freedom to express yourself! The God I know doesn't force anyone to love Him or do work for Him. IF you knew anything of truth you would know that! If you think your ignorance is bliss/I am afraid you'll have a rude awakening. Maybe Anna should have started her campaign on the streets with
all the "funding" we have now to repair them>personnally I'm glad she chose to speak up for our right to freedom of religion. She didn't ask for funding to disply the picture either! she only wants it included with the others. (no larger than)
really WHY offended??what are you afraid of?

James Young, Tulsa, Austin, Temecula (8/12/2009 3:45:36 PM)

Basil writes: {If science can defend its premise, that all happened by chance, then they have nothing to fear from open debate about this in our schools and publically.}

First, science is merely the methodology of gaining knowledge through the application of certain principles to known facts and by observation and experimentation. Scientific debate requires certain parameters of thought and is unwilling to assume facts not provable by observation or testing. Religion seems to want its own set of rules and accepts a different standard of proof. In harsher terms, religion does not argue that same phenomena or by the rules as science.

Religion argues that it should be accepted on the same footing as science but is unwilling to abide by the same rigid rules as science. The existence of a god cannot be proven by scientific methodology; therefore, science says god cannot be proven. Religion argues (among other things) that because god cannot be disproven, therefore, he exists. I’ll leave it to the individual reader to determine who is most intellectually honest in that argument.

{ What even happened to academic excellence and the free exchange of ideas and debate?}

Academic excellence can still be found and I hold out great promise from our tertiary education system, especially graduate level work. I would certainly like to see more critical thinking classes and applications in all classes from about the 6th grade upwards.


Far too much time is wasted by people with political agendas to trivialize or demonize those they perceive as their opponent if not their enemy. And far too much time is spent by all the instant media to sensationalize their product. Where in-depth critical analysis is needed, instead, we get sound-bites; for example, the media give us Sarah Palin’s “death panels” instead of examining the real issues of end-of-life planning because it sells.

LizD, (8/12/2009 3:51:00 PM)

Good gawd! I was just thinking "You know, what Tulsa really and truly needs is another representation of Christianity in this town! There is hardly enough!" NOT. You HAVE to be kidding me. Is it really not enough that there is a Christian church of one flavor or another on EVERY CORNER IN THIS CITY?! Is it really not enough that you can attend the church of your liking 3,4,7 days a week if you so choose? Really?? That's really not enough for many of you? Please, please, PLEASE do something truly Christ-like with all your spare time and volunteer in a soup kitchen, help build a homeless person a house, help the sick, etc...instead of wasting everyone's time with these hollow and self-righteous displays. You don't have the good sense to be embarrassed for yourselves, so I'll be embarrassed for you.

James Young, Tulsa, Austin, Temecula (8/12/2009 3:53:33 PM)

Rocketman writes: { Or was it the founders intention to keep the government out of religion?}


Carl and I already had this discussion. Any reading of Madison, author of the first amendment, and Jefferson, the architect who designed the wall of separation between church and state, will reveal that they thought the establishment clause took precedent over the exercise clause. While the exercise clause allows the free practice of religion in private, the establishment clause prevents the state from recognizing any religion or even respecting any establishment of religion in public.

T!ger,, Tulsa (8/12/2009 3:54:48 PM)

Karl said: "Tiger, I want you to take your idea that everyone needs to learn about YOUR "one true and loving god" and ...

That is exactly why we have a Constitution that specifically ignores "god" - because others of us have different beliefs and entangling religion and government is the quickest route to destroying either one of them or both of them."

Even if you don't know it, he isn't just MY God, he is OUR one and only True God. If everyone has different beliefs, That's great. I know a lot of Good people who maybe Christian, Jewish, Muslim, etc etc. We are a Christian Nation. Go look at a quarter and on the back of it says "In God WE Trust". Gods Constitution is greater than other Constitution in the world. It is called the Bible, and there it has all the truth. I pray for you.

GOD BLESS YOU!

mkmarciaw, (8/12/2009 3:55:31 PM)

thank you James

g-rant, (8/12/2009 3:57:43 PM)

Tulsa needs real solutions, not religious pandering and diversions. Good thing she has no chance of winning.

Oldfatdude, Whoville (8/12/2009 3:59:41 PM)

This is more entertaining than the preliminary auditions of American Idol. Just about as dumb and delusional too.

LocalBoy, B.A. (8/12/2009 4:02:24 PM)

The lady puts herself in the category with Virginia Jenner and Accountability Burns. Not to be taken remotely seriously.

Tulsa politics sure wakes up the oddballs. Are these people not getting their meds?

TheDudeAbides, Midtown Tulsa (8/12/2009 4:02:41 PM)

Can you imagine my disappointment when I saw the headline and expected a crazy story of trumpets raining from the sky and it somehow being a creationism issue? While this story is pretty entertaining, raining trumpets would have been much better.

freemind, Tulsa (8/12/2009 4:07:41 PM)

On a more subtle note, did you catch that last sentence?
"the creation of the earth from a scientific point of view"
Creation? Point of view? Wow.

Rocketman, Tulsa (8/12/2009 4:10:52 PM)

Regarding the Tulsa Zoo, a zoo is one of the most inhumane places for any species of animal. It is nothing but a prison for depressed animals. The zoo should not accept any new animals, not allow any animals to breed (the few who do in captivity) and eventually closed.

Edlin, (8/12/2009 4:13:37 PM)

Go Anna. Bring on the Christian Taliban and Christian Pharisees. I want to see some public stoning and the Religious Police whipping all them sinners on main street. All concerts and entertainment in Tulsa should also be of Christian nature also. Always be sure to use the name of GOD for your Political gain to get votes. The Churches have failed, so it is up to you Anna.

52favoriteteacher, Washburn--used to be Broken Arrow (8/12/2009 4:14:52 PM)

Church lady, mayoral candidate Anna Falling,

Sarah Palin are three ladies not afraid to let

the people know that the God they happen to serve

is to be honored.

Why some church haters call these ladies names,

attempt to show how the separation of church and

state requires them to hush, and continue to bash

any and all supporters of God...

Give It A Rest Will Ya...

freemind, Tulsa (8/12/2009 4:18:25 PM)

It must be the end of summer because the nuts are begging to be picked.

T!ger,, Tulsa (8/12/2009 4:24:57 PM)

Rocketman,

I see your point and I am not trying to start a argument or anything but I'm just saying that the Zoo is for peoples enjoyment to see the animals in person. I agree too, that they should be put back in the wild where their home is, but I love working at the zoo. I love working with the animals, and playing with the baby lions, and tigers. I wouldn't want to work anywhere else!

grizz, tulsa (8/12/2009 4:27:42 PM)

"It must be the end of summer because the nuts are begging to be picked. "
I wish I had said that.

Oldfatdude, Whoville (8/12/2009 4:30:50 PM)

"Why some church haters call these ladies names,"

I don't hate churches or Sarah or Anna. Church is for people who want to go there and believe what they want.

I "disagree" with Sarah and Anna on all levels and think they are hiding behind their religion or trying to use it for personal gain. In short, I believe they are top-notch Hypocrites, ignorant and are crazy from head to toe.

(ever notice that the word ignorant has "rant" in it?)

Pilot22a, (8/12/2009 4:54:16 PM)

So mayor, since there are literally hundreds of gods, and most of them are represented in Tulsa, how is it you can argue that your personal god is the right one to "honor" in a city that contains so many god-honorers?

A Concerned Citizen, (8/12/2009 5:10:44 PM)

"Are the oceans God's tears?"
"They sure are."

Karl, Tulsa (8/12/2009 5:22:05 PM)

Tiger said: "he isn't just MY God, he is OUR one and only True God".

no, No, and NO!!! "He" (She/It) is NOT OUR god. That is where you get off the track. Just because you believe in some antiquated concept that was started by a bunch of goat herders in the iron age who didn't know anything about science doesn't mean that it is "TRUE".

However, notice that, because of the "free exercise" clause of the First Amendment of the Constitution you are perfectly free to believe that idea. The other side of that is the "establishment" clause that prevents any gov't entity from doing anything that would promote, support or advocate for religion.

As to this being a "Christian Nation" - No, it is not "officially" a Christian Nation, and that's why the Founders included that First Amendment - to keep it from becoming one.

Rocketman, Tulsa (8/12/2009 5:36:56 PM)

T!ger,

Are the animals there happy? Why do they have to be kept in a cage?

I know you have a wonderful job, doing what you probably dreamed about as a child and there are probably a lot of people who would like your job, but tell me the majority of the animals kept in cages are not depressed.

flyingtheo, Broken Arrow (8/12/2009 5:58:33 PM)

Apparently this woman has not read the Constitution about the requirement for separation of State and Religion. These type of people would turn America into Iran if given have a chance.

flyingtheo, Broken Arrow (8/12/2009 5:59:11 PM)

"half" a chance. My bad

flyingtheo, Broken Arrow (8/12/2009 6:03:16 PM)

A government theocracy? hmmm, does the Crusades or the Spanish Inquisition ring a bell? How about the Spaniard Conquistadors?

tiara, (8/12/2009 6:07:37 PM)

Oh my theHarp1, is Ms. Falling related to you! Because the whole story must have just been LIBERAL SPIN! She couldn't possibly have said these things. Give me a break! This is Oklahoma and she's another crazy fringe right-wing ultra- dingdong conservative. And you, my friend, are caught up in this wild conservative conspiracy theory-lovin' movement going on. All media is liberal and biased, but Christians and conservatives know the truth. And that is, Barack Obama isn't an American citizen and health care reform is going to ruin the nation and we're all going to hell in a hand basket! I am SO over these weirdos. BTW, look at Bruce Plante's editorial cartoon today. Nail on the head.

mattimus, (8/12/2009 6:08:06 PM)

I am left to assume that keeping our fair city from becoming the laughing stock of the modern world isn't on that priority list.

Eric, Tulsa (8/12/2009 7:15:14 PM)

...
This would be funny if it weren't so bloody serious.

Something is terribly wrong when we have people planning to ram their religious beliefs upon every and all citizen.

This is no different that the Taliban, the fundamentalist religious and political movement that we're supposedly fighting (with thanks to former president George Bush).

Oh, well...I suppose we'll just have to move to Iraq, where Bush promised to import American Democracy and freedom to those people.
...
..
.

mkmarciaw, (8/12/2009 7:30:47 PM)

I would like to ask so many of you uninformed people what you are doing for what you believe in besides griping on the internet? You know nothing about Anna Falling. Please educate yourselves. At least she is standing up for what she believes in. I can tell you she cares for Tulsa, and that includes you. She loves you and so does God.

Karl, Tulsa (8/12/2009 7:58:57 PM)

mkmarciaw: What I am doing for what I believe in is to try to explain to all you ignoramuses about the Constitution, why we have it, and why the Founders INTENTIONALLY worded it to keep all dealings with religion out of the government.

To say that we know nothing about Anna Falling is stupid to the tenth power. We know, from her statement, that she is a religious fanatic who would turn this country into a theocracy - like Iran - if she was given half a chance.

You are the one who needs to be educated - about the fundamental concepts of the Constitution.

So what if she is standing up for what she believes in, all of here are doing that. Most of us believe in the law, while she, and you apparently, believe in is forcing everyone to accept your fairy tale.

mkmarciaw, (8/12/2009 8:02:30 PM)

I think you may have it just a little backwards. It was to keep the government out of religion. Please educate yourself.

James Young, Tulsa, Austin, Temecula (8/12/2009 8:23:57 PM)

Mkmarciaw writes: {I think you may have it just a little backwards. It was to keep the government out of religion. Please educate yourself.}

Please see my post in this forum at 3:53:33PM today. Madison intended the first amendment to keep religion out of the government. Any reading of Madison and Jefferson will reveal that they expected the establishment clause to supersede the exercise clause. The state has kept its side of the bargain; it has not interfered with your right to privately practice whatever beliefs you hold. It is now time for you and your brethren to quit trying to establish a church within the government.

Your Conscience, (8/12/2009 8:43:27 PM)

I hate to admit it, and an Oklahoma Citian, but, take in total, Tulsa has a higher quality moron than we do. Give yourselves a pat on the back.

Your Conscience, (8/12/2009 8:44:35 PM)

I hate to admit it, as an Oklahoma Citian, but, taken in total, Tulsa has a higher quality moron than we do. Give yourselves a pat on the back.

Ignatz, Broken Bow (8/12/2009 8:45:48 PM)

I have a solution. Set up shaded tv monitors throughout the zoo and run continuous episodes of "The Flintstones."

Karl, Tulsa (8/12/2009 9:05:59 PM)

mkmarciaw: You have probably been fed that line by your pastor since you were 5 years old. Unfortunately, it is not true. Your pastor has been lying to you.

Here are some quotes on that subject.

And I have no doubt that every new example will succeed, as every past one has done, in shewing that religion & Govt will both exist in greater purity, the less they are mixed together.
- James Madison, letter to Edward Livingston, July 10, 1822

Congress should not establish a religion, and enforce the legal observation of it by law, nor compel men to worship God in any Manner contrary to their conscience.
-James Madison, explaining to Congress during the House Debate what the First Amendment means to him, 1 Annals of Congress 730 (August 15, 1789)

In a letter to Benjamin Rush dated June 12, 1812, John Adams wrote:
Nothing is more dreaded than the national government meddling with religion.

President John Tyler, 10th (1841-1845) US President : "The United States have adventured upon a great and noble experiment, which is believed to have been hazarded in the absence of all previous precedent -- that of total separation of church and state."

The Supreme Court in the 1947 decision Everson v. Board of Education adopted the separationist point of view and, in one of the most famous passages in constitutional law, Justice Hugo Black wrote:
The "establishment of religion" clause of the First Amendment means at least this: Neither a state nor the Federal Government can set up a church. Neither can pass laws which aid one religion, aid all religions, or prefer one religion over another. Neither can force nor influence a person to go to or to remain away from church against his will or force him to profess a belief or disbelief in any religion. No person can be punished for entertaining or professing religious beliefs or disbeliefs, for church attendance or non-attendance. No tax in any amount, large or small, can be levied to support any religious activities or institutions, whatever they may be called, or whatever form they may adopt to teach or practice religion. Neither a state nor the Federal Government can, openly or secretly, participate in the affairs of any religious organizations or groups and vice versa. In the words of Jefferson, the clause against establishment of religion by law was intended to erect "a wall of separation between Church and State."

Karl, Tulsa (8/12/2009 9:17:44 PM)

Think of it this way.

I do not know what your religion is, but I would guess that it is some version of Christianity.
If there were no establishment clause, the gov't could "establish" Judaism as the official religion of the country, or Hinduism, or some version of Christianity other than yours - like Methodism, or Catholicism, or Scientology, etc.

How would you feel if that happened and because of that you were discriminated against because of your belief?

Well, that is how many of us feel when people like you keep trying to force the gov't to do something that endorses or supports your religion.

That is why it is so important to keep religion out of gov't.

Basil, Tulsa (8/12/2009 9:20:39 PM)

It's sad how many of you are demonstrating a complete ignorance of Christian history, and American religious history. Your public educations did a great diservice to you, when it comes to intelligently discussing these matters.

Though some exceptions can be found, many of our founders openly stated that they believed our democracy could only work if Christian leaders were elected. The first supreme court chief justice, John Jay, even implored Americans to only elect Christians to office, because he understood how uniquely well the Christian moral principles supported our form of government, because traditionally Christians have taught selflessness, love of neighbor and enemies, and that our rights come from God, not politicians, so we have no right to take them away from others.

It was this Christians more conscience which led us out of some of our darkest hours in history, while many of your have twisted the reality on its head, choosing to believe it was the problem instead of the driving force behind postive changes, like ending slavery, the civil rights movement, etc. The few occasions of violence in the name of Christianty prove the rule of general peacefulness and just societies creating among Christian cultures.

The inquisition and wars in Europe between protestants and Roman Catholics were largely caused by the corruption of the faith which occured over time within the Roman Catholic branch, which broke from the larger Christian Church in 1054 A.D. in the Great Schism.

T!ger,, Tulsa (8/12/2009 9:29:22 PM)

Rocketman,

Really, I don't know why some are kept in cages. I know part of the reason is because some of them maybe dangerous like the snakes, but other than that really I don't know why. You would have to ask the owner. I really don't wish they were in cages but atleast we are taking care of them unlike those crazy circus people.

Oh, and Karl..

I am sorry if the truth hurts you, but we all have one God. I am sorry that the devil is in your head and making you say these things even if you don't know it. by the way, Most of America is Christian, Most of us say it is a Christian Nation, so in other words It IS a Christian nation. This has nothing to do about what they wrote on the Constitution about 200 or 300 years ago. RIGHT NOW we are a Christian nation. Good night and GOD AND JESUS BLESS YOU!

2ndjoyce, BA (8/12/2009 9:30:40 PM)

Electing moral leaders is one thing. Requiring citizens to adhere to the principles of any one religion is another.

fly always, tulsa (8/12/2009 9:49:49 PM)

She is off her meds

Bud Green, No (8/12/2009 10:06:40 PM)

Another goofy politician grandstanding for votes.

Bud Green, No (8/12/2009 10:15:55 PM)

Karl and James Young have all but drawn pictures for the closed-minded; well said.

Anna Falling, and her ilk, are disasters looking for somewhere to happen.

#1, (8/12/2009 10:43:50 PM)

I think the lady is crazy, I have listen to her talk to her employess. Tulsa has enough problems without putting up with her.

Karl, Tulsa (8/12/2009 11:06:48 PM)

Basil said: "Though some exceptions can be found, many of our founders openly stated that they believed our democracy could only work if Christian leaders were elected."

Then how do you explain this:
Rev. Doctor Wilson, in an 1831 sermon protested that it almost seemed as though God had been deliberately excluded from the origins of the new government: "... the Constitution was framed and God was neglected. He was not merely forgotten. He was absolutely voted out of the Constitution. The proceedings, as published by Thompson, the secretary, and the history of the day, show that the question was gravely debated whether God should be in the Constitution or not, and after a solemn debate he was deliberately voted out of it."

And this:
Constitution Article VI
no religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust under the United States.

hapbarb, (8/12/2009 11:07:07 PM)

I don't care what religion this candidate is; I care that she is not focused on the pressing issues that face our community. Next candidate, please.

Ignatz, Broken Bow (8/12/2009 11:16:23 PM)

The boring thing is that all these "let's put the religion I believe in in government" are all a slight variant of Pentacostal/evangelical Charismatic Christianity types generally practiced in the backwoods among semi-literates. I wish we would just have one Scientologist or Zorasterist step up.

thorkelsom, (8/12/2009 11:23:09 PM)

umm... y'all do realize this story has been linked in by international websites and not only the whole country but the whole world will be laughing at Tulsa if this christianidiot is anything close to a viable candidate... I read this from Finland for example...

the independent, (8/13/2009 12:16:03 AM)

This is one of the reasons I moved out of Tulsa.

Okamorancher, Collinsville (8/13/2009 1:14:56 AM)

I think she and Sally Kern are sisters! I think they should not be re-elected.

rockfan, broken arrow (8/13/2009 4:36:02 AM)

I wonder if the big guy really cares if the Tulsa Zoo has a creationist display?

Basil, Tulsa (8/13/2009 6:02:45 AM)

"The boring thing is that all these "let's put the religion I believe in in government" . . ."

The majority's will should determine what religious expressions we find in public places, as long as the rights of the followers of other religions are not denied. The Constitution allows for shift in religious belief, by excluding any specific religion from being recognized as the state religion, but it does not follow that religious expression should not and cannot be a part of public life and legislative decisions. We are all guided by some moral philosophy, and these convictions naturally direct our lives and political views.

Mary, (8/13/2009 7:32:18 AM)

When I was a volunteer for the City of Tulsa, Anna Falling was the rudest City Councilor I ever encountered. For someone that spews her Christian beliefs all over everyone else, she needs a few lessons in basic manners and how to treat other human beings that are not quite as high on the social ladder as she is.

psychedelikrelik, Tulsa (8/13/2009 7:57:08 AM)

This story made FARK dot com. How embarassing.

Thanks so much for making our entire town look stupid, Anna.

wolfen, (8/13/2009 8:07:47 AM)

People of Tulsa, for the love of god..... keep this woman far away from city hall. Very far away.

Oldfatdude, Whoville (8/13/2009 8:14:40 AM)

Did anyone ever notice that the birthplace of christianity is Bethlehem, which is in an Arab country? I think Muslims also beleive in Jesus. So my question is what's the difference between a Muslim fanatic and a Christian fanatic?

Lipstick and fewer explosives?

mkw, (8/13/2009 8:27:32 AM)

bigfatdude! thats right! and Jesus was Jewish....keep studying there may be hope
for you yet!

BohemianGirl, Tulsa (8/13/2009 8:49:01 AM)

She's a whack job. Creationism has nothing to do with the zoo. She needs to focus on the real issues, and leave religion out of it.

SandSpringsRob, Sand Springs (8/13/2009 8:52:17 AM)

What a shame.

davfromm, (8/13/2009 8:56:35 AM)

I think you science and reason folks are going about this all the wrong way. Imagine the billions of dollars that could be pouring into our state if we made Oklahoma the official Mecca for these religious nuts. Instead of fighting so hard against all this nonsense, cash in on it. Change the name of the state to “Jesusland of Signs and Wonders” and invite all of the outcast snake handlers, big hairs, Palinites and other assorted riff-raff from all over the country. Sally Kern would be the new Governor-Arch Bishop and Falling could be the Grand Inquisitor responsible for rousting citizens out of bed on Sunday mornings and forcing them at gunpoint to church.

GreyRoof, Tulsa (8/13/2009 9:27:11 AM)

What better person to have run our city than someone who openly exhibits contempt for everyone who does not have the same beliefs and religion. We need a mayor who disregards the founding tenants of our Country. We need a mayor who will be willing to lead our city back to the rewarding heretics with burning at the stake. Only then will we succeed in becoming a nation where we properly regard any openly expressed contrary thought or opinion. Freedom of expression, thought and belief must be suppressed. Then we will be welcomed into fellowship of nations such as China, Cuba and North Korea. We will be able to follow the successful path of government found in Cuba and the former Soviet Union.

gruner, Tulsa (8/13/2009 10:00:42 AM)

Basil - I am not as convinced as you that the founding fathers intended to "allow the free excercise of relgion, in whatever manner the majority wills, as long as they allow other people to practice their religions also". That said human history has shown that a majority inspired and compelled by it's religion usually exercises that majority will in ways that eliminate "other" people. Recent example of a historical truth: Belfast Protestants vs Belfast Catholics; Croatian Catholics vs Serb Orthodox vs Muslim; Sunni vs Shia; Muslim vs Jew vs Christian. I think the founding fathers appreciated this which is why they separated church from state.

mkw, (8/13/2009 10:21:25 AM)

without something solid to go from here (truth) where and how can we find change to this mess! do we not all want for something better here? If we hurt or shut up our christians and churches will that make tulsa better? make you feel safer? give you a sense of power? independence? I am amazed at those that don't believe in SOMETHING-because they are doomed to fall for anything. I pray during this mess that people will look for their truths and figure out what they believe and hopefully it will be something that won't harm others but bless and restore what faith and hope there is in the hearts of all men. It seems many need some light on their subject. Hopefully they will decide to seek that but it is a personal decision we all have to make at one point in our lives. Love would not be unconditional if it weren't a choice. signed: church lady 2

Oldfatdude, Whoville (8/13/2009 10:43:47 AM)

mkw - "If we hurt or shut up our christians and churches ". I don't think anybody wants to do that.

Just tell your Ms. Falling to either get her priorities correct or get her and her flock out of politics.

Karl, Tulsa (8/13/2009 10:46:24 AM)

mkw said: " If we hurt or shut up our christians and churches will that make tulsa better?"

NO ONE has said anything about shutting up christians OR churches.

All we are objecting to is the attempt to insinuate your religion into government contrary to the "establishment" clause of the First Amendment. I hope you are aware of the "free exercise" clause in that same amendment - that gov't can not interfere with your right to practice whatever religion you want.

It seems like I have explained this to you before.
What part of it do you not understand?

tulsa_common_sense, tulsa (8/13/2009 10:46:35 AM)

Report Comment | Ignore User
Oldfatdude, Whoville (8/12/2009 1:45:43 PM)
tulsa_common_sense said "instead religion teachs us how to say we are better then our neighbors. "

You're better than me? If I cared what you think, I might want to argue that point.

Perhaps Ms Failing, or Flailing, or Falling (whatever) should gather her followers and get the flock out of here. Go to Alaska and team up with Ms. Sorry Phailin to save Wasilla.
>>

oh no id never claim to be better then someone else. i can say i am tolerant of someone's view. i always found the religious who back someone like this to be funny because its as if they are saying only god can fix the worlds troubles when in reality only god can do is sit back and let US fix the worlds troubles because has given us choice. if he allows to give us choice then it is noone elses right to take that choice away. something the wack jobs need to understand.

Karl, Tulsa (8/13/2009 11:03:57 AM)

Basil: I would guess that you have severe reading difficulties. I explained to you yesterday about the deliberate decision to leave "God" out of the Constitution. And now you say: " ... it does not follow that religious expression should not and cannot be a part of ... legislative decisions."

I'm sorry, but you are 100% wrong. It does follow that religious expression should not be a part of legislative decisions.

The part of that sentence that says: " ...it does not follow that religious expression should not and cannot be a part of public life ..." is correct. It depends, of course, on what you mean by "public life". You are quite free to go out in public, stand on a street corner or in a public park, and spew your religious dogma. You are free to buy land and build a church. You are just not allowed to try to get the gov't to support your religion by putting up monuments or plaques or statues expressing your peculiar religious beliefs.

logicrules, (8/13/2009 12:06:52 PM)

As a Christian I am embarrassed and chagrined by Anna Falling. Science and faith do not mix. The animals at the zoo and the zoo's education message is one of biology, and conservation. I cringe when I think of professionals from other parts of the country reading articles like this one and contemplating moving to our state. They are probably thinking, 'no way I'd live in Oklahoma, the place is an ignorant backwater'!

Rocketman, Tulsa (8/13/2009 12:49:02 PM)

Route66bear,

Don't even think about turning your back on Christ. Just go to a church that welcomes homosexuals, the more liberal Episcopal church, the Metropolitan church or the Congregational church. There is a place were you will be accepted and your homosexuality embraced.

That is what makes this country great - freedom of religion, just because we differ on this issue, does not mean God's grace is not for you.

tulsa_common_sense, tulsa (8/13/2009 2:05:42 PM)

mkmarciaw, (8/12/2009 3:42:17 PM)
what is all the talk about coming up with funding for this "statue"??? its not a statue it is a nicely framed picture depicting Genesis 1 it was beautifully done and paid for already by the Hicks family and donated to the zoo. The ignorance out
there is scarey! At least she is trying to speak up for truth! This country was founded on Christianity and lets see how you loud mouthing folks like losing the freedom to express yourself! The God I know doesn't force anyone to love Him or do work for Him. IF you knew anything of truth you would know that! If you think your ignorance is bliss/I am afraid you'll have a rude awakening. Maybe Anna should have started her campaign on the streets with
all the "funding" we have now to repair them>personnally I'm glad she chose to speak up for our right to freedom of religion. She didn't ask for funding to disply the picture either! she only wants it included with the others. (no larger than)
really WHY offended??what are you afraid of?
>>

if its a painting it needs to be in an art gallery. what purpose does it serve at the zoo? thats the real question.

mkw, (8/13/2009 2:59:44 PM)

;) maybe so! maybe they will accept it in the museum with the dinosaur exhibits! ;) Ever read "more than a carpenter?" by Josh McDowell?
you might enjoy that! His purpose is to prove christians are insane idiots!

douglassm, tulsa (8/13/2009 3:08:55 PM)

What is your shirt made of Yak?

Alix Smart, (8/13/2009 3:09:59 PM)

Yep i gotta agree with her on the fact that god may be punishing okla for how we voted. Repent repubs before it's to late. Quit hating America and get behind your leader. either with us or against us.

mkw, (8/13/2009 3:09:59 PM)

hey maybe we could auction it off to the highest bidder! Put the money toward trying to save the zoo animals. Seems they are not doing well. dark in there you know

Edlin, (8/13/2009 3:29:52 PM)

Hey Anna. Why don't you erect YOUR Christian creationism display on the front lawns of all the Churches? Why do you want it on public tax payer funded property while the Church property is tax exempt?

tulsa_common_sense, tulsa (8/13/2009 4:43:56 PM)

mkmarciaw, (8/12/2009 7:30:47 PM)
I would like to ask so many of you uninformed people what you are doing for what you believe in besides griping on the internet? You know nothing about Anna Falling. Please educate yourselves. At least she is standing up for what she believes in. I can tell you she cares for Tulsa, and that includes you. She loves you and so does God.
>>

i know enough about the nutbag to know she wants me to have only the same belief she has and that my faith is somehow not good enough. she wants me to believe that only through her belief will this city be in good with god. only her belief will stop the problems this city faces. the same thing that all the other nut bags of history has proven doesnt work. a strong faith in god didnt prevent the roman empire from falling. it didnt help protect the jews from being persecuted for centuries. religion has not made any society better. nor does a lack of religion cause immediate destruction.

tulsa_common_sense, tulsa (8/13/2009 5:26:32 PM)

Rocketman, Tulsa (8/13/2009 12:49:02 PM)
Route66bear,

Don't even think about turning your back on Christ. Just go to a church that welcomes homosexuals, the more liberal Episcopal church, the Metropolitan church or the Congregational church. There is a place were you will be accepted and your homosexuality embraced.

That is what makes this country great - freedom of religion, just because we differ on this issue, does not mean God's grace is not for you.
>>

wow. just wow. so i take it your in the closet? you know most homophobes are actually homosexual themselves. so how about you become secure in your sexuality and just come out of that closet?

tulsa_common_sense, tulsa (8/13/2009 5:32:13 PM)

Yakimoto, Tulsa (8/13/2009 1:06:49 PM)
I'd like to briefly piggyback on Rocketman's comments to Route66.

We ALL have sin in our lives. One may be a thief, another a liar, another homosexual, another a murderer ... but PRAISE GOD, His forgiveness is for everyone. In His eyes, "any" sin separates us from Him and must be cleansed by the innocent blood of Jesus Christ.

Just because one is "saved" does NOT mean that person is no longer a sinner. Being saved does not make one better than another. It DOES/SHOULD mean that person is striving to be more like Christ.

Which brings me to ..... The Word of God is absolute. While we may continue to struggle with sin; in my opinion, one cannot be truly saved if s/he believes God lied or made mistakes in that Word.
>>

i dont believe anyone here has said god has lied. i know i do believe those who approved the books of the bible and written many of the passages are not 100% accurate to the historical events. if they were then there would be no reason for revising any of the test that has occurred through the centuries and that text that were historically accurate wouldnt have been left out of the approved bible. many atrocities have been committed in the name of god. many of them came about due to religious leaders pushing an agenda. why is it that Christianity as a religion as a whole has caused so many of the atrocities all in the name of god?

T!ger,, Tulsa (8/13/2009 6:10:16 PM)

I highly agree with what Rocketman and Yaki has to say!

We all have created sins in our lives and we always will, that is why Jesus was nailed to the cross, so that we can be forgiven by those sins we commit.

We should also never give up Church or Christ just because of what other people say Route66bear. We all may have different beliefs but thats why God gave us FREEDOM of religion. God Loves me and God Loves you! That is why he is so amazing! As long act like TRUE Christians and use our Christian attitudes in different places other than just Church, and as long we give our life to the Lord than we will make it to Heaven.

May God Bless you!

T!ger,, Tulsa (8/13/2009 6:11:11 PM)

Btw, I bet she could win! You never know!

If Obama wins ANYTHING, than Anyone can win anything!

billybob74135, Broken Arrow (8/13/2009 10:10:07 PM)

It's good to see you Route66bear,

and it needs to be said again. "if this were SINCERELY about the ORIGIN of LIFE this might be an issue"

This is about getting votes. And as an evangelical Christian who knew some things about the last time this went down, I still want an answer to my question "Who will replace the funds lost by certain zoo donors if this goes down?"

That's what I want to know!

Prometheus, (8/13/2009 11:23:58 PM)

Dang! Most of the comments here seem to be from reasonable folks who don't think it's a good idea for the government to promote myth and superstition. I'm amazed because that's not the type of irrational comments we read in the local news in middle Georgia. Do I need to change my plans to move to Montreal and go to Tulsa, instead? Anna Falling is orchestration her own demise with her misplaced and fallacious priorities.

Oilie, Tulsa (8/13/2009 11:28:52 PM)

Anna Falling should change the spelling of he name to Failing because that's what she will do if she tries base her campaign on the creationism display.

And, you liberals with the "seperation of church and state" don't know the Constitution and the Federalist Papers. The Constitution, Amendment I, reads "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof;..." That means there is to be no endorsement of an official state religion, like the Church of England, or like the Roman Catholic Church or Islam in other countries, but it does not mean religion is to be totally removed from the public arena.

Oilie, Tulsa (8/13/2009 11:39:15 PM)

Okfatdue

Muslims do not "believe in" Jesus. They recognize him as a prophet and teacher. I think their religion, Islam, is based on the teachings of Mohommad, a later day prophet.

batspeed123, (8/14/2009 9:02:49 AM)

Oilie, it really depends on your definition of "believe in." If by "believe in," you mean believe Jesus was the son of God, then no the Muslims do not. They do however, believe he was born of a virgin, performed miracles and will return to the earth again on the day of judgement. They also believe in creationism. The stories of the Torah (including Genisis) are in the Quran. You see, they are just as crazy as Christians.

gruner, Tulsa (8/14/2009 10:15:24 AM)

Basil
Again your history is twisted. You state:
"The inquisition and wars in Europe between protestants and Roman Catholics were largely caused by the corruption of the faith which occured over time within the Roman Catholic branch, which broke from the larger Christian Church in 1054 A.D. in the Great Schism." The Great Schism was between the western Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church. If as you say the Roman Catholic Church corrupted the faith, the Protestant Reformation would have based there religious dogma on the Eastern Orthodox Church. They did not, and many Protestants today are grateful for that. More to the point if I switch the order in your statement to the following I would again argue that the founding fathers understood human history and why separation of church of state is important. Here is the switch for you to consider:
"The inquisition and wars in Europe between Roman Catholics and protestants were largely caused by the corruption of the faith which occured over time within the Protestant branch, which broke from the larger Christian Church"

Proud Muslim, Tulsa: Coolest place in the world (almost) (8/14/2009 10:31:48 AM)

As batspeed123 pointed out, Muslims believe Jesus was born of a virgin, Mary, and performed miracles; however, we do not believe he is the son of God. The vast majority of Muslims believe Jesus is coming back, though I do not. And Islam is also an Abrahamic faith and a monotheistic faith, so Muslims believe in one God who created the heavens and earth.

But just as crazy as Christians? Nah, I'm CRAZIER than they are!
Mwahahahahahahahahaaaaaa!

batspeed123, (8/14/2009 10:57:18 AM)

Interesting Proud Muslim. So you do believe in the story of Adam and Eve?

Proud Muslim, Tulsa: Coolest place in the world (almost) (8/14/2009 12:17:17 PM)

Yep, I do, though I'm not sure if the details are the same as those that Christianity teaches.

Basil, Tulsa (8/14/2009 12:23:50 PM)

Gruner,

Before the Great Schism of 1054, which created an offical split between the Church in the east and west, there was only One Universal Church, aside from the very small non-Chalcedonian branch which had departed from the Church around 451 A.D. after the Council in Chalcedon over a dispute over the correct understanding of the two natures of Christ.

Before the Great Schism, there was already growing concerns and disputes over growing theological and ecclessiological distortions growing in the western part of the Church.

Basil, Tulsa (8/14/2009 12:45:03 PM)

The newly formed separate Roman Catholic Church continued to wield great influence over the western nations, despite its continued corruption of the original teachings of Christ. This corruption went largely unchecked after the schism, partly due to political and geographical isolation from the Church which continued unchanged in the east.

Finally, things reached a breaking point as multiple "reformers" began to rise up against the RCC, but rather than steering the Church back toward apostolic teachings, the reformers created new groups, or denominations, reinventing the faith to the best of their ability using the Bible alone as their guide. Some, like Martin Luther, had contacted bishops in the east, but not unity could be established. Many of their reforms were reactions against a corrupt Roman Catholic Church, rather than an effort to return to an orthodox understanding of Christ. They threw out many practices which were apostolic traditions passed down from the beginning, just because they associated them with the corrupt Latin Church.

gruner, Tulsa (8/14/2009 12:57:46 PM)

Basil
Thanks for your consideration and reasonable dialog. I think we can agree that we can discuss religion, be respectful of each others view, listen and keep the politics out of it

CapitalismNotSocialism, (8/14/2009 1:05:06 PM)

So what happened toseperation of Church and State(does nto exist in the constitution by the way only in a letter)? It is okay for hinduism(just as specific example for this article), humanisn, agnosticism and even atheism to be taught and be state sponsored religions. However when it comes to Christianity, the rule of anti-semtism reigns.. despite the fact that our American seal was at one time to contain the image of the pillar of fire mentioned in the Old Testament.
This is a part of Socialism folks, although this decision was not directly related to the progressive socialism being shoved down our throats today. That is the idea, that there is only right way to think about things, if you fall out of that way then you are on the fringe and should be silenced.

batspeed123, (8/14/2009 1:32:33 PM)

Actually, while the words "seperation of church and state" are not in the Constitution, the idea is. In Jefferson's words, the clause against establishment of religion by law was intended to erect "a wall of separation between church and State."
Nobody is teaching Hunduism, Agnosticism and/or Atheism as "state sponsored religions.
"That is the idea, that there is only right way to think about things, if you fall out of that way then you are on the fringe and should be silenced." - It's funny that you mention this, as it IS Christianity in a nutshell.

Tim Denver, Denver (8/14/2009 2:09:23 PM)

The mayoral candidate describes a zoo display as a priority.

How, exactly is this a priority? Isn't Tulsa like most major metropolitan areas facing real issues, such as crime, homelessness, failing infrastructure, education, revitalizing neighborhoods, mass transit, and pollution? And, Falling says a zoo display is a priority? The good citizens of Tulsa deserve a candidate with real vision, not this silly woman.

praisejeesuss, (8/14/2009 2:44:49 PM)

ProudMuslim:

Muslims have to believe what they are told, unlike Christians who get to think for themselves.

T!ger,, Tulsa (8/14/2009 3:28:20 PM)

I believe in everything the Bible has to say and I HIGHLY believe they are truth because to me they are!! I am a Huge Christian and Not because I am supposed to believe it, but because I want to believe it. I believe Jesus is the son of God, because well DUH he is! I am a huge Christian and I stand by my beliefs by NOT 100% but 110%!

GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU!

Tim Denver, Denver (8/14/2009 6:39:00 PM)

So T!ger believes in slavery?

If you buy a Hebrew slave, he is to serve for only six years. Set him free in the seventh year, and he will owe you nothing for his freedom. If he was single when he became your slave and then married afterward, only he will go free in the seventh year. But if he was married before he became a slave, then his wife will be freed with him. If his master gave him a wife while he was a slave, and they had sons or daughters, then the man will be free in the seventh year, but his wife and children will still belong to his master. But the slave may plainly declare, 'I love my master, my wife, and my children. I would rather not go free.' If he does this, his master must present him before God. Then his master must take him to the door and publicly pierce his ear with an awl. After that, the slave will belong to his master forever. (Exodus 21:2-6 NLT)

When a man sells his daughter as a slave, she will not be freed at the end of six years as the men are. If she does not please the man who bought her, he may allow her to be bought back again. But he is not allowed to sell her to foreigners, since he is the one who broke the contract with her. And if the slave girl's owner arranges for her to marry his son, he may no longer treat her as a slave girl, but he must treat her as his daughter. If he himself marries her and then takes another wife, he may not reduce her food or clothing or fail to sleep with her as his wife. If he fails in any of these three ways, she may leave as a free woman without making any payment. (Exodus 21:7-11 NLT)

When a man strikes his male or female slave with a rod so hard that the slave dies under his hand, he shall be punished. If, however, the slave survives for a day or two, he is not to be punished, since the slave is his own property. (Exodus 21:20-21

Christians who are slaves should give their masters full respect so that the name of God and his teaching will not be shamed. If your master is a Christian, that is no excuse for being disrespectful. You should work all the harder because you are helping another believer by your efforts. Teach these truths, Timothy, and encourage everyone to obey them. (1 Timothy 6:1-2 NLT)
The servant will be severely punished, for though he knew his duty, he refused to do it. "But people who are not aware that they are doing wrong will be punished only lightly. Much is required from those to whom much is given, and much more is required from those to whom much more is given." (Luke 12:47-48 NLT)
Slaves, obey your earthly masters with deep respect and fear. Serve them sincerely as you would serve Christ. (Ephesians 6:5 NLT)

Sorry, no matter what the Bible says, I still believe slavery is evil.

tintulsa, Okmulgee (8/15/2009 1:35:14 AM)

I said it before, and I'll repeat in simple language: The creationism ploy is a brilliant way to get people to forget about her past and proven illegal money she and her relatives received from the "Recycling Scam". That's why she's stayed away from politics so long, and why she had to leave in the first place!

It's nice to see the political axiom still applies in her mind (as well as other politicians), voters are sheep who have no memory. This is not about religious beliefs, just a smokescreen!