" I read about this yesterday and was shocked at the attitude of Eschliman, and Workman, and very pleased by the censure they received in the comment area. I don't know what their traditional values are, but the traditional values of most Nebraskans include extending a helping hand to those at risk. I'm so thankful that the rest of the city council wasn't swayed by the tunnel vision of those two members! "

" When sexual orientation is not given flamboyant coverage, then non hetersexual perspectives may be accepted as a normal part of our world. Maybe it is time for PFLAG to begin a new phase that doesn't make drama of sexuality and instead allows self esteem and social acceptance programs to integrate, not alienate. Depression and suicide are the issues, sexual orientataionshould not be. PFLAG and the community should assure school curriculums sufficiently incorporate balanced exposure at appropriate grade levels and assure orientation bias is not present that would discriminate any more than we would tolerate for racial discrimination. Move forward as a healthy minority, not a special need group, the time is here. Depression and suicide are serious problems, same sex orientation is not. "

" I think the point is Cheryl, is that because of their sexual orientation issues they feel isolated, thus making them depressive and suicidal. Counseling would help them to come to terms with their issues and learn how to integrate better into the community. On Eschlimand and Workman's attitudes ~ shame on them. If I do remember right, (and I'm speaking in their language) Jesus would let the sinners come feast with him. I suppose they should ask themselves where their traditional values truly come from. "

" Nice post Connie. I was shocked by the regressive and backward thinking of Eschilman and Workman. Their homophobia disgusts me. The people of this state are far more enlightened than the councilmen and women. "

" Remember this the next time Eschliman comes up for reelection which I believe is 2009. I know I wanted a change on the city council so I voted for her; I wont make that mistake again. "

" "Flamboyant coverage" of sexual orientation? PFLAG makes a "drama" out of sexuality? I've heard some really stupid things come out of the "traditional family values" camp, but this takes the cake. I agree that depression and suicide are serious problems, but ignoring the fact that individuals with same sex orientation are at high risk because someone thinks they're drama queens (excuse the pun) is absurd. I agree with connie-MY family values include extending a helping hand to those with the greatest need, not excluding them because they don't fit my definition of morality. "

" And here I had hoped all this time that this argument would be waged by intelligent and responsible individuals who would refrain from using the term "homophobia" or a variation thereof. Can a person instead be labeled as "heterocentric"? This derogatory namecalling of those who don't share the same "enlightened" veiw of homosexuals has to stop for any valuable debate to exist. "

" Eschilman and Workman made some unhealthy comments. Still, sex orientation is not a problem; suicide and depression are broader in scope and might include self identity and self esteem deficiencies. While eatting more fruits and vegetables won't alone help, it is time to get this group into healthy lifestyles where they aren't using their oorientation as an excuse for other problems. The mask of orientation may have worked a decade ago but social progress has been made and the 2001 data may be outdated ...Will and Grace are with us and courage to move beyond pampering is relevant. "

" Imagine the absolute outrage if the same amount of money were to go to CHRISTIAN students who were feeling suicidal because of the bigotry and intolerance directed toward them. Oh wait, it is the "in" thing to bash and discriminate against those with Christian values and direct unending sensitivity toward homosexuals and you better get on that ship or else! "

" Sexual Orientation should not even be an issue. What is that. We were born Male and Female and that is that. It is a choice if you want to act perverted. Then the choice should not be "suicide" if you don't like the decision you made. Homosexuality is a choice, not born to you. "

" Better yet, maybe pflag should keep their stuff out of schools completely. I am sick of the gay community forcing itself on innocent children in public schools. maybe they should slink back into the closet "

" Maybe outrage would transpire if the money were given to Muslims depressed because of th political environment....we don't allow sexual practices in schools and don't allow religious practices...orientation and God travel beyond the classroom. $1500 is hardly enough to educate this community. "

" When it comes to health care, if a demographic shows an elevated risk, then it makes sense to put your resources there. I would be all for having additional training for particular religious issues if the facts supported that bigotry and intolerance towards CHRISTIANS was leading to higher suicide rates. Maybe they do, and maybe we should look into it. "

" That's the problem right there. People think this should be up for debate. Since when do you think your sexuality should be debated and by whom? "

" The suggestion that Christian youths in the same situation would have to deal with outrage were money to go them is completely baselss. Christianity is ubiquitous here in America and enjoys the support of millions. Just to prove how wrong you are, check the TAX EXEMPT status that every Christian church in America gets to file under, then get back to me abou that outrage. Give me a break. "

" Let's remember this when Eschliman comes up for election again. It's not 1928 Councilwoman!!! "

" If there is a need in this town, it might be to bring moral and ethical lessons to the schools with respect for individuals and everyones differences. Society isn't outraged there are gay politicians, they are outraged unethical conduct of complacency in politicians like Fortenberry exists. Demonstrating stewardship to "the challenged youth" and assuring their safety is where we could be in behavior modification...it is not the orientation of the Congressman, but his excuses and the failure of those who facilitated a culture of problem hiding that exposed a sick and reckless Congress. Alcoholism and other diseases or problems can be sources of depression rather than sex orientation. "

" Responsible use of power is what citizens look for. Whether in Eschliman, Workman or Fortenberry, citizens want compassion and a kinder world in which local assistance and care for the most vulnerable is met with real help. "

" Christians and Jews can be an intolerant group, at least they aren't allowed the stone to death practice in this state...somehow their pressure leading confused children to resort to suicide may be even more cruel? "

" Lets see....Are the Councilmembers actions out of step? In the majority of states where gay marriage has come up for a vote, it's been defeated. Pretty much the same situation with the Nebraska legislature. Let's not even reflect on how the national poll numbers reflect on the subject. Of course, having a drunken gay United States Senator hang outside of a dormitory for teen pages does'nt help a whole lot either. Nope, it would appear that the Councilmembers really are'nt all that out of touch. "

" I just think it is sad that there are those who would make an issue out of this. If a small amount of money will help prevent suicide in a given segment of the population, go for it. Don't make it a political/values issue. The fact that there are those who are making an issue out of this should be ashamed of themselves. "

" An excellent demonstration, yet again, of those "traditional family values" that conservatives all claim to support! Hate, fear, phobias...traditional family values all! And people (expecially Bubba) - the $1500 isn't intended to educate the entire area community. Its a grant to establish a program to train and educate PROFESSIONALS (as in mental health workers and people who work suicide hot-lines) to the greater risk of suicide by gay teens and what can be done to help them! And yes, it likely isn't enough, but for the far smaller "community" of mental health professionals, its a good start! "

" This funding is discriminatory towards heterosexuals at risk for suicides. How about including EVERYONE at risk instead of secularizing it towards the alleged special needs of PFLAG kids? You get sick of others 'forcing their views on you', well, we're getting sick of you forcing your views on us. Suicide is the issue, no matter what the cause. "

" If this was a choice I guarantee you I would be choose heterosexuality ive struggled with this all my LIFE. I tried to choose your so called straight life It was not for me. I do not try to force my lifestyle on anyone. I do not judge someone because of there sexuality I judge people on there actions in life. And just because im homosexual does NOT mean I dont have Family Values. The whole world would be a better place if there wasnt so much hate. There is room in this world for everyone. "

" This kids wouldn't need counseling if the bible bangers and rightwingers would leave them alone and allow them to grow up the way they were born. "

" Maybe they are depressed first and gay second? "

" Wow, it blows me away to see so much misinformation being exhibited on the posts here. I am the president of Lincoln's PFLAG - Parents, Families of Lesbians And Gays. Parents and families who come to our meetings for support because they are in shock and totally blown away when their sons and daughters tell them they are gay. Many of these families belong to religions that support "traditional family values." PFLAG is a place these families can go to and be supported and understood and talk about their gay kids--many times the ONLY place they can talk about their kids. Our goal is to prevent kids from having to use the agencies that this grant will assist. The unfortunate reality is that many families are not accepting of their gay children and these kids are the ones that end up on the streets. It is possible many of you will be in the situation to have one of your wonderful, beautiful, smart children/grandchildren/nieces/nephews/brothers/sisters tell you he/she is gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender. It happened to me. I was thankful to have PFLAG to support me when I needed the support. This grant will be used to educate staff at agencies here in Lincoln to recognize and assist gay and lesbians teens who have been thrown away by society. Every parent, parent-to-be, aunt, uncle, grandparent has the potential to have a gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender child. There are many agencies that already are working with at-risk children but not all the staff in these agencies have been trained to be aware of and how to deal with the GLBT kids. "

" I think traditional Nebraska values include top ten rankings in drinking, a high divorce rate, promiscuity, sexual assalt etc. I understand the goals of the council folks who want to deny funding in this area but fail to see the "Nebraska Values" I keep hearing so much about. The hypocrisy out there is just astounding, let's help the suicidal kids, heterosexual or homosexual, let's give the kids with the serious problems at least a shot at adulthood. "

" Eschliman might have taken a fair stance in seperation of government funds and promotion of sex...hetero or homo..activity/orientation in an environment where young adults are often under the age of consent. There are ethical concerns when under age children are exposed to sexual contnet without presence of parents; is PFLAG acting as Rep. Foley did to promote sexual thoughts and alliances with a behavior that is not appropriate in schools? Stop Robin bashing, she may be raising a red flag the community needs to take a closer look at. "

" Almost any church will offer better and more personnal counseling for these people. Why waste more tax dollars? Sorry, but I have little tolerance for the gay lifestyle. "

" This highlights the reasons that people on both coasts see Nebraskans as intolerant and ignorant. The major fact is that SUICIDE is the number 1 cause of death in gay and lesbian teenagers. Do you think that they would CHOOSE to be this way if the ramifications made them want to kill themselves? Being gay is not a choice. Deal with it. Focus on the fact that these teens can be helped and this meager donation could be that help. $1500? How much do we pay our incompetent mayor? Maybe she should donate her salary to the Christian kids that need help. DOn't they have their church to go to if they have problems? "

" If it were a choice I'd choose homosexuality just so I would no longer have to feel guilt by association as a member of the bigoted heterosexual orientation. Eschliman and Workman show all of the enlightened brilliance that segretationists did before them. And, just as (most of us) look back in disgust at those who denied rights to non-landowning white males, African Americans, and women in our nation's past, so will history look back in shock alternating between horror and amusement at those who presently think it will be the end of the world as we know it if gays are granted their full citizenship rights. Just as it was with non-landowning white males, African Americans, and women, bigotry will one day lose out and gays will be granted the full citizenship rights they deserve. And, just as the culture did not crumble when the other groups finally gained their long-overdue rights, so will it not fall when gays get theirs. May the voices of comapssion and tolerance rise above the babble, and may it be sooner rather than later. "

" There is a push in today's society to teach grade school children that it is all right for a child to have two parents that are of the same sex. Not only is that all right, but it is discriminatory to say that a mother and father are best or better for a family then two parents who are of the same sex. This is part of the learning curriculum of some Minnesota grade schools right now. This kind of stuff has to stop. School children don't need this junk filling up there heads. Why don't you gay people save it until they are grown up. Or would it be to hard to hook them that late in life? "

" Discrimination - one could argue that tax breaks for married couples are discriminatory to us single folk, funding drug rehab programs are discriminatory against those of us who don't do drugs, anti-smoking programs discriminate against those who don't smoke. Your argument falls very flat. There is nothing wrong with targeting a small group of at-risk kids in the hopes of preventing a tragedy. The sad thing is that so many folks are trying to politicize this issue - it doesn't reflect well on our society. "

" Just because Christian oppose the gay lifestyle doesn't mean they hate gays. I'm a Christian and would treat homosexual or heterosexual people exactly the same, however I just don't support their lifestyle. Just because Christians have stuck to the Bible and not changed with portions of society doesn't make them haters. Yes there are always extremist out there, but I don't think that's the majority. "

" No one has asked how many suicides we have in Lincoln due to homosexual depression. How do we know that this is a real issue without documented facts? Is this really a problem here, or is this a projection of a serious problem from bigger urban areas? "

" Yes Josh, the issue is being politicized, by you and those that think this funding is okay. Funding should be for all at risk kids and for those programs already in place, they need to be educated how to assist the GLBT society. They don't have special needs...suicidal choice doesn't care if you're gay, hetero, alcoholic, fat, thin, whatever. No special funding for any special group...funding for ALL to help ALL. Read my post in its entire context, not just selecting a word or phrase in which to frame your argument. "

" Okay, Darren, I will bite. So you say that you follow your beliefs, and still are okay with other people not beleiving, and that you'll still treat them the same as you would another Christian. Well, in an ideal world, that would be true. But from what I see, the Christians want to dictate quite a few things to gays, regardless of church. From what I see, what the gays want, (and deserve like everyone else) - fair treatment, is usually taken away by a religious majority that loves to cloak everything around the church. And a very large number of Christians actively subvert any 'gay agenda' by voting against gay marriage, (whether or not it's an issue inside their own church), working to subvert any recognition of unions so that gay couples can have the hundreds of benefits that hetero married couples enjoy, and general animosity towards any pro-gay agenda. Maybe they're not 'haters', but they sure work to subvert any progress for the 'gay lifestyle' - using a term that inside Christian circles might as well mean "Devil Worshipper" "

" I've seen it first hand. I watched my best friend's family deal with her suicide. The last thing she told me before she died was, "I just want to be normal." I'm shocked to see adults arguing about something that has been proven. Gay and lesbian youth make up the highest percentage of suicides. Why can't people put aside their differences of religion, political party, and their values, and realize that this is kids were dealing with. And I think we can all agree that the youth of this country need to feel safe. Because after they're all dead it won't matter what anyone thinks. "

" You live in your own world. Sexual Orientation is not a choice! "

" Kudos to Eschliman and Workmans for saying what everyone else is thinking. This world is too worried about being P.C. when it is obvious the majority of people in the world are heterosexual. If I were gay I would be suicidal too. That is because suicide, like homosexuality is a mental handicap. If homosexuality were normal, all animals would practice it. The purpose of sex it to procreate, period. "

" Has it occurred to any of you who oppose this funding that gay and lesbians also play keno and pay taxes? Apparently it didn't occur to either Workman or Eschliman. My first best friend is a lesbian. Where did we meet? At a Methodist Church right here in Lincoln, where we shared a playpen in the nursery while our parents attended services together. Jesus never said a word against homosexuals, and he didn't make exceptions when he told us to love one another. People who cite their "traditional values" in opposing these kinds of programs make me ill. Would they really rather see the children of our community kill themselves because they don't know where to find a sympathetic ear? "

" An exorbitant number of teen homosexuals are suicidal. Is there a proportionate number of suicidal teen HETEROsexuals? Why not? Is anyone asking this question? Homosexuality is unnatural - that's why more homosexuals are suicidal. Of course the homosexual activists will claim that my saying so is the cause for homosexual teen suicides. How ironic. They claim culture is biased against homosexuals. I say it is for good reason. I can equally say homosexual activists are biased. Why are they not asking for public funds for suicidal teen hetersexuals? A little common sense goes a long way. The homosexual agenda is ruining the lives of teens, and now we are literally paying for the problem. This is neither a Christian nor non-Christian issue. Homosexual sex is unnatural, risky, and deadly. This is a fact. "

" I guess I don't understand. Aren't we trying to prevent suicide here? Seems like a worthy cause, regardless of your stand on GBLT issues. If so little amount of $$ can make a difference, then that seems like a VERY reasonable use of gov't dollars. Perhaps that stand is too reasonable in this town? "

" $1500 dollars is a drop in the bucket. Let's see how much this has grown in 5 years. I'll bet the amount skyrockets. All you have to do is get a program started, get it on the books and then increase after increase. Suicidal children, regardless of reasons, should be assisted. The questions is what kind of counseling will they receive? "

" Why don't they hold counseling for people who lead a straight lifestyle? "

" Glad to see the Journal Star publish this. How despicably irresponsible for Eschliman and Co. to essentially say, "let 'em die"! "

" Why should anyone undermined the needed funds for mental health issues, especially during adolescent years which are formative times with emotional problems. If we had the suicidal awareness in our schools years ago, my brother would had that second chance to survive his bout of depression. Concerning to both sexual genders will help with this suicidal intervention that is much needed in our schools. "

" Christianity teaches many things. For those who have disdain for Christians, and feel that I'm ramming my beliefs down your throats, get over it. People give their opinions all of the time, and I have just as much right as anyone else. It's the beauty of being an American. As I was saying, Christ teaches us to recognize the differences between good and evil. Christ also taught us to face evil head-on. Christianity also teaches us that homosexuality is a sin against GOD. Christ also taught us that people who engage in homosexual activity are under the influence of an evil spirit. It doesn't mean that they're a bad person, just misguided. If homosexuality was normal, why isn't it more prevalent in our society? Statistics show that only ten to twenty percent of the population claim to be homosexuals, how can homosexuality be considered normal? The unfortunate fact of the matter is that whether you share my beliefs and are a part of coalition that perserves Christian values, or you believe differently and promote homosexual lifestyles, we will always be fighting against one another. Someone's sexual orientation should not be a factor in whether some kids with suicidal tendencies should get money or not. Giving someone preferencial treatment because he or she may be gay is wrong. If anything, the money should be given to create the same kind of organiation that would prevent suicides for kids, regardless of their sexual orientation. "

" Re: gay and lesbian youth program funding Councilor Eschilman should hold her head in shame. How dare she belittle such a paltry sum to help alleviate the sufferring of so many in desparate need of our help. I hope that when she needs help, that others are kinder than her. Shame on you. Dr Ronald McCoy Family Physician Melbourne, Australia "

" I agree that this money should go toward helping all kids. I am not sure that I have ever heard of homosexuality being a part of the children who killed people at Columbine School....or any other shooting at school as far as that goes. I think that we need to take care of all of our children, not just the gay ones. I agree that it is against the Bible and all religion that I have been reading, but it is a choice just like drinking and driving. God does forgive, but he doesn't forgive when it is something you do over and over, and don't try to do the right thing. Let's help all our kids.........I am sure that there are many out there who are not gay, but could use help just the same. "

" AJ, take another look in the bible. Jesus did say that man should not lie with another man. Educate yourself before posting to avoid embarrassment. "

" Actually, at risk of embarrassment, Jesus never said anything against homosexuality. You are quoting Leviticus 20:13 and my philosophy is, if you aren't going to follow every passage within Leviticus, you don't get to pick and choose. Evil Conservative, we agree... you are. I recommend the book by one of the legions of Christians who've truly followed the concept of WJWD and read the book by Father Hanway called "A theology of gay and lesbian inclusion: love letters to the church", which is available at your local book retailer. Lastly, to Elephant in the Room and others, it is EXACTLY because of individuals with attitudes like yours, that gay teens ARE more suicidal! If somebody talked about you, your loved ones, your tribe with the same certain condemnation that you espouse, he would be so psychologically, emotionally and spiritually devastating. But you don't seem to get that, which is also exactly why these monies are needed. To be made to feel ashamed for your naturally occurring affection towards the same gender is nothing but cruel. I have many gay/lesbian friends who are living in loving, healthy, caring, productive and successful relationships, no thanks to your demeanors... and who does it harm? Why do you care? Again, shame on you all. To the GLBT people, family and allies out there, CELEBRATE who you are and take no heed of those with closed hearts and minds. "Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind." Dr. Suess "

" You have no idea what I am quoting Cheri. Leviticus 20:13 does not say that Jesus is the one who said that. The bible is not the only place that tells the teachings of Jesus. There are many books and scriptures that tell us many things that DID happen. You are the first to be able to tell us what somebody never said. How can that be? I could never presume to know what ANYONE has NEVER said. I am not evil nor will I stoop to name calling such as you do. I don't have to follow anything Levitucus says but thank you for letting me know that I don't get to pick and choose. As with AJ, educate yourself before posting. "

" Okay, Doug... tell us where you found a quote from Jesus that speaks out against homosexuality, please. And, if you'll read this blog in it's totality, I wasn't referring to you or name calling. You'll note that somebody labeled themselves as "Evil Conservative". And... AJ is correct. Again, there are many Christians, as well as those of other religions, that act with the love, compassion and acceptance of Jesus quite comfortably welcoming gay persons into their fold. I'm sorry you can't make that reach. "

" jesus, who is the "Word became Flesh" wrote in Revelation that homosexuals would not enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Other passages reveal that that refers to practicing homosexuals not someone with a predisposition. Anyone who bases their whole identity on a sexual practice is indeed strange, freaky and weird. Many civilizations have overtly practiced homosexuality and it always led to extreme depravity: where we are headed. Psychologists are liberals clergymen and many studies show that people end up worse or at best the same as when they first started. The only branch which at all beneficial is the behavioral branch. In the old days, they called it common sense. There is nothing new under the sun once said an enlightened Jew. "