Faith

Town Protests Atheists’ Threats by Chopping off Part of Controversial Water Tower Cross

Whiteville, Tennessee Responds to Atheists Threats to Water Tower Cross

The cross after its arm was removed (Image Credit: WREG)

Remember the controversial cross on a water tower in Whiteville, Tennessee? Earlier this month, the Blaze reported that Mayor James Bellar was planning to cave to atheists’ demands and have the religious symbol moved to private land.

Bellar, who defended its presence, claimed that the town could not afford to pay for an expensive legal battle with Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF) — the “freethinking” group seeking its removal. Thus, moving it to a nearby highway seemed like the best possible solution.

In its new location, Bellar said it would be seen by an even larger audience. But rather than make good on this plan, the mayor decided to voice his protest to the atheists’ demands.

Whiteville, Tennessee Responds to Atheists Threats to Water Tower Cross

The cross before its arm was removed

Instead of taking the symbol down and moving it, he ordered one of its arms be removed. So, the cross (minus one of its arms) is still standing on the top of the water tower, essentially serving as a reminder of what FFRF forced the town to do.

“This brings to close a sad chapter in the history of Whiteville that can best be described as terroristic, cowardly and shameful!,” Bellar wrote in a letter to Nashville lawyer Alvin Harris. “The fear and terror caused our older people here is shameful. So shame on your client and your firm!”

Technically, without one of its arms, the cross is no longer, well…a cross. The FFRF has called off its plans to sue Whiteville, but has dubbed the mayor’s actions “bizarre.” Of course, the group promises to continue watching to see what happens next.

The community, though, is emboldened, with residents supporting the mayor and joining in the fun. WREG has more:

Many people in Whiteville are responding to the removal of the cross on city property by placing one on their private property.

“You can’t go down one street without seeing at least two.  You can go down any of these streets and you’re going to see a cross. There no way you can go through Whiteville and not see one,” said Sarah Knight.

Hundreds of crosses of all sizes have been placed around the city.


This battle is yet another religious freedom fight sparked by the FFRF, America’s largest organization of atheists and agnostics. While the organization claims that a resident in the town complained about the cross, representatives refuse to release the individual’s name.

In the end, it seems like a partial win has been secured for Bellar and the local community.

(H/T: WREG.com)

Comments (390)

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  • Doova
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:21pm

    I also think this is clever. This will be a reminder of what happened for years to come. By the way, you think FFRF has a problem with sharia law creeping into recent court cases here in the US.

    Report Post » Doova  
    • Eliasim
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:24pm

      Well then, I guess FFRF will deserve the things Sharia Law will do to them won’t they?

      Report Post »  
    • Eliasim
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:27pm

      It‘s amazing to me that Jesus Christ was actually not teaching religion at all but mainly the way the world works in regards to the human spirit and reincarnation of the spirit and people still don’t get it. Therefore it affects atheists also.

      Report Post »  
    • DTOM_Jericho (Creator vindicator)
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:34pm

      Fools fighting over a pagan symbol that is contrary to their own religion. I’m down with the fight against liberal bs, but I’m not going to support fighting for something forbidden by God.

      Report Post » DTOM_Jericho (Creator vindicator)  
    • TheImirOfGroofunkistan
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:37pm

      The town should erect a lower case letter ‘r’ directly behind what’s there now …

      Report Post » TheImirOfGroofunkistan  
    • motonutt
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:38pm

      And as for the Jesus statue in Montana that the godless communists from Wisconsin are trying to get removed…..I think they should just put an obama mask over Jesus‘s face and then they won’t have to remove it. Then the socialist communists can bow down to their true god, and the stature can stay.

      Report Post » motonutt  
    • stoptheliesbho
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:51pm

      AWE-SOME! This is the most feel-good story I’ve read on Blaze in awhile! They will see it as a constant reminder of their ignorance, and the crosses all over the city will sure help with that, too. AWE-SOME…

      Report Post » stoptheliesbho  
    • Marcia
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:57pm

      It is clever and a testament to the disgusting bullying of the left. They are not content to live and let live – no, they have to ruin it for everyone. The mayor was smart to keep it up – not as a cross perhaps, but as a reminder of the chokehold that the left is capable of doing to free citizens.

      Report Post »  
    • motonutt
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:01pm

      @DTOM_ I assume you are a mormon. And that’t fine. I won’t belittle you for that, you can folllow whatever religion you choose. But don’t belittle other christians who DO believe that cross is a symbol of their faith. I personally do not believe the cross is a “peagan” symbol. And to say such a thing implies that people who see it as a symbol of their faith are peagans.

      When “easter” comes around do you call it easter? because that is a peagan term and peagan celebration…? If you don‘t that’s great, if you do you are being a hypocrit. Peace Brother.

      Report Post » motonutt  
    • marhee9
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:07pm

      The amazing thing about the atheists, is that they aren’t fighting for the freedom to be without religion. They are fighting to remove the right of American citizens who embrace religion. Crazy days are indeed upon us. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IlIS6gRq32Q

      Report Post »  
    • Cerealface
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:12pm

      Goodbye Sharia gay law.

      Hello not in my back yard law.
      Hang your crosses. On PRIVATE property. Water tower = public Property
      That one guy is right, this town is ignorant.

      Report Post » Cerealface  
    • FoeHammer865
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:31pm

      Unfortunately, placing a cross on a water tower has NOTHING to do with “Congress shall make no law…” This is not federal, and it isn’t even a law. It’s not even STATE!

      @CerealFace: Don’t be ignorant yourself. You should read about all the “State religions” that were quite within the confines of the US Constitution and applauded by our Founders.

      Report Post »  
    • smithclar3nc3
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:45pm

      The atheist case shouldn’t even be heard by a court…AS THE 1ST AMENDMENT SAID GOVERNMENT SHALL PASS NO LAW PROHIBITING THE FREE EXERCISE OF RELIGION.
      The FFRF IS UNCONSTITUTION AS OUR COUNTRY IS F.O.R. FREEDOM OF RELIGION.

      Report Post »  
    • 4truth2all
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 3:04pm

      Looks like a little wisdom of Solomon.
      I’m thinking of a tee-shirt that would fit this idea.

      NO… removal of the t, won’t make us free!

      Report Post »  
    • DTOM_Jericho (Creator vindicator)
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 3:10pm

      @motonutt
      I’m not mormon. That’s hilarious. I don’t celebrate “easter” and neither did Yeshua(“jesus”). I don’t celebrate “christ’s mass” the pagan birth of sun gods rather he example in Scripture(Jn 10:22–39) of Yeshua participating in Hanukkah(a tradition, not a Holy Day) though. The cross is a pagan symbol of Mithraism and that’s why the romans crucified people on them. You can make the case, I am sure you would disagree, that the crosses are idols and graven images.

      As for suggesting people that do easter and fight for crosses are pagan… fine, put that on me, I have no problem with that. Apparently you think “Paul” had a gentle touch?

      You cannot take something that is used to worship pagan gods, turn it and claim worship Him with it. That co-mingling of paganism and His people is what the harlot in Revelation is all about. Too much? Well then how about just the fact that YHVH forbids it?

      End of Deuteronomy 12 (please by all means read the whole chapter/book)
      “…be careful not to be ensnared by inquiring about their gods, saying, “How do these nations serve their gods? We will do the same.” 31 You must not worship the LORD your God in their way, because in worshiping their gods, they do all kinds of detestable things the LORD hates. They even burn their sons and daughters in the fire as sacrifices to their gods.

      Shalom
      32 See that you do all I command you; do not add to it or take away from it.”

      Report Post » DTOM_Jericho (Creator vindicator)  
    • chazman
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 3:29pm

      … I wouldn’t be surprised if the FFRF is CAIR (Costantly Advancing Islamic Regime).

      Report Post »  
    • PubliusPencilman
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 3:38pm

      FoeHammer,

      In that case, you don’t have the right to free speech or free exercise either in this case, since those two fall under the phrase “Congress shall make no law…”

      Report Post »  
    • PubliusPencilman
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 3:43pm

      I’m constantly amazed at how stupid people are when they make the argument that secularlists are on the side of Sharia law. If you have paranoid fantasies of “creeping sharia,” the ONLY way to protect yourself is to insist that America vigorously maintain the separation between Church and State. That’s just 1st grade-level common sense.

      Report Post »  
    • V-MAN MACE
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 3:46pm

      So, they changed the crucifix into a hangman’s pole.

      Same thing. They’ve figuratively hung themselves.

      Report Post » V-MAN MACE  
    • Marci
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 4:00pm

      The FFRF is not asserting freedom of religion—they want the freedom to destroy all religion. Enough is enough. The day I see them at a mosque, I might pay attention. (a little)

      Report Post » Marci  
    • ChiefGeorge
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 4:11pm

      Very clever strat. No doubt someone will still sue for what the one arm thing used to represent. Now we‘ll create a whole new religious symbol to wear around in protest and an example of how we don’t want to offend anyone who may see it thus the one arm thingy pendant hanging around your neck now becomes the new Christian symbol. It will not mean anything for many year until people get fanatic about its meaning and again attack that one arm thingy thing that used to represent a cross that is no longer found in America….future shock.

      Report Post » ChiefGeorge  
    • Bonesaw
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 4:54pm

      @ DTOM

      Sooooo you are taking a very hard line and legalistic stance on something, and then calling others who do not believe as you do ignorant.

      How many people do you plan to convince with this approach? I mean do you expect anyone to be all “Omigosh! I didn’t know that! I’ve been duped! Please share your infinite knowledge with me!”

      People don’t pray to the cross. “Oh cross! Please forgive me of my sins”. Bible also says we can eat meat sacrificed to pagan idols and not be defiled. Bible is also clear that it is not what goes into a man that makes him evil, but what comes out of him. BUT… according to you… if a person gives their life to Christ, is radically transformed in the condition of their heart and becomes a new creation in mind and heart BUT they have a cross in the house, they are screwed in the after life.

      I mean Christ was all about the strict adherence to rules and the strictest letter of the law right? We’re not saved by grace or by faith are we? NAAWWWWW We’re saved by the strict adherence to rules. Dude I totally believe you more than the Bible. It is so obvious that you have the superior hermeneutic.

      Report Post » Bonesaw  
    • V-MAN MACE
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 4:56pm

      ChiefGeorge

      The funny thing is, if we play their way and wear a one-armed cross (a hangman’s pole) it already comes with it’s own noose – the chain holding the charm, which is supposed to be a rosary!

      I’m perfectly fine with being hung, or crucified, with Yeshua Ha Moshiach. Businessmen wear their ties (the noose of wage bondage).

      I’m just not the type of person to wear symbolic idols of crucifixes. My body itself and the universe itself is a testament to the Almighty.

      When I walk around town, an entourage of angels proceed before me proclaiming “Make way for the Image of the Most High”.

      Report Post » V-MAN MACE  
    • American Soldier (Separated)
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 4:56pm

      What makes you think Atheist groups wouldn’t fight against islamic laws dictating american laws? It’s equality religious. If they had put a crescent moon at the top of the water tower, guarantee the same group would have petitioned to have it taken down.

      Report Post » American Soldier (Separated)  
    • Lemon Party Patriot
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 5:04pm

      This all took place in White Evil, Tn.

      Report Post » Lemon Party Patriot  
    • Tiny Montgomery
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 5:58pm

      I don‘t see why they wouldn’t. The brand-name doesn’t make any difference. Muslims have the same right to use public money, property, and resources to promote their religion as Christians do; none.

      Report Post »  
    • DTOM_Jericho (Creator vindicator)
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 8:24pm

      @Bonesaw
      Wow, you sound like a glib calvinist. If not, it makes no difference. Hermeneutics? What a joke.
      Technically the command is about kneeling before them. Do a generic google on kneeling before the cross. It’s not hard to disprove your assertion.
      http://images.roosvansaron.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/300×300/RhPvLgoKClkAAFjzCFA1/kneel%2520before%2520the%2520Cross.jpg?et=sF26qEJPW%2CunofLnq1EtBA

      Yes, Messiah strictly adhered to the Law. That’s why He told the pharisees to stone the adulterous woman if she really was caught in the act. They were lying. They were trying to trick Him. He gave her a death penalty as long as they had no sin among them. Uh, like bearing false witness.

      Who gets to decide if I am “legalistic”? You? Then would you be what you claim of me. Is my tone abrasive? What is your tone? You are a hypocrite.

      I guarantee you there are many, many more examples of my abrasiveness in Scripture. Actually, much, much more mocking.

      You misrepresent me. According to me, if someone is transformed by Messiah, when they understand something is pagan they will purge it. They will be like Messiah and obey the Law. There are Laws about helping widows, orphans and poor… are they worthless too or only the ones you don’t like?

      I assume the irony of using meats offered to idols, when talking about worship, obedience or faith completely escapes you?!?!

      “James” 2:18 – “I will show you my faith by my works.”

      Report Post » DTOM_Jericho (Creator vindicator)  
    • encinom
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 9:34pm

      “Unfortunately, placing a cross on a water tower has NOTHING to do with “Congress shall make no law…” This is not federal, and it isn’t even a law. It’s not even STATE!”

      Water tower public land, the cross a religious symbol to a relgion, putting the cross on the tower an endorsement of one relgion over others. the 14th Amendment has applied the Bll of Rights to the States. The State and their political subdivision (cities, townships, counties) are prohibited from violating the 1st Amendment (this cross is a clear violation).

      Report Post »  
    • MHP
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 11:49pm

      encinom

      There’s only one thing you athiests fear of, Violence.

      And you are sparking it.

      Report Post » MHP  
    • DYNA
      Posted on October 28, 2011 at 2:50am

      @DTOM_Jericho (Creator vindicator)
      You wrote,
      “Yes, Messiah strictly adhered to the Law. That’s why He told the pharisees to stone the adulterous woman if she really was caught in the act. They were lying. They were trying to trick Him. He gave her a death penalty as long as they had no sin among them. Uh, like bearing false witness.”

      This statement is not accurate. Referring to John 8: 3-11, The scribes and pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery. Jesus said, let him who is without sin cast the first stone. Nothing in these scriptures specifically mentions the only sin being that of bearing false witness. Jesus told her to go on her way and to sin no more.
      They were not lying about her having been caught in the act of adultery. But obviously, none were without sin and qualified to condemn her without condemning themselves. The One Who was without sin, Jesus, did not come to condemn the world but to save it as the world was already condemned. Consequently Jesus did not condemn her but told her to “go on your way and sin no more”.

      Report Post »  
    • DYNA
      Posted on October 28, 2011 at 2:55am

      @DTOM_Jericho (Creator vindicator)

      You wrote,

      “Yes, Messiah strictly adhered to the Law. That’s why He told the pharisees to stone the adulterous woman if she really was caught in the act. They were lying. They were trying to trick Him. He gave her a death penalty as long as they had no sin among them. Uh, like bearing false witness.”

      This statement is not accurate. Referring to John 8: 3-11, The scribes and pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery. Jesus said, let him who is without sin cast the first stone. Nothing in these scriptures specifically mentions the only sin being that of bearing false witness. Jesus told her to go on her way and to sin no more.

      They were not lying about her having been caught in the act of adultery. But obviously, none were without sin and qualified to condemn her without condemning themselves. The One Who was without sin, Jesus, did not come to condemn the world but to save it as the world was already condemned. Consequently Jesus did not condemn her but told her to “go on your way and sin no more”.

      Report Post »  
    • ltb
      Posted on October 28, 2011 at 10:22am

      DTOM_Jericho (Creator vindicator)
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:34pm
      Fools fighting over a pagan symbol that is contrary to their own religion. I’m down with the fight against liberal bs, but I’m not going to support fighting for something forbidden by God.

      —–

      Christians don’t worship the cross and we don’t celebrate its pagan origins, it is a reminder of our Savior’s sacrifice.

      Report Post » ltb  
    • Cesium
      Posted on October 28, 2011 at 10:32am

      Hey, people like to display their crucifixion equipment. Keep it brutal christians! Nothin evil about a crucifix as your symbol of faith.. nope.. not at all… why not add an iron maiden and guillotine as garnish?Gotta remember to keep suffering and death a major religious theme to improve your lives.

      Report Post »  
    • ltb
      Posted on October 28, 2011 at 11:45am

      Cesium
      Posted on October 28, 2011 at 10:32am
      Hey, people like to display their crucifixion equipment. Keep it brutal christians! Nothin evil about a crucifix as your symbol of faith.. nope.. not at all… why not add an iron maiden and guillotine as garnish?Gotta remember to keep suffering and death a major religious theme to improve your lives.

      —-

      “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:18

      Report Post » ltb  
    • DYNA
      Posted on October 29, 2011 at 3:58am

      Cesium
      Posted on October 28, 2011 at 10:32am
      Hey, people like to display their crucifixion equipment. Keep it brutal christians! Nothin evil about a crucifix as your symbol of faith.. nope.. not at all… why not add an iron maiden and guillotine as garnish?Gotta remember to keep suffering and death a major religious theme to improve your lives.

      ———————–
      Actually it was Jesus, a Jew, the Messiah = the Christ, Who suffered and experienced physical and spiritual death for the sins of all mankind, as many as might receive it.

      He does not just improve a life, He is Life. Fortunately He sent His Holy Spirit to convict, convince, and prove to the hearts of mankind of this matter when this good news is spoken. To as many as will hear it. No one took His life, He and his Father gave it.

      He Who knew no sin, became sin on our behalf so that we who knew no righteousness, might be the righteousness of God.

      He died for our sins, and was risen for our justification to sit at the right hand side of the Father in all power, honor and glory.

      If anyone confesses Jesus as Lord and Saviour, and believes in his heart that God has raised Him from the dead, he will be born of the Spirit and have life eternal. This isn’t religion, this is Real.

      Report Post »  
    • sixtysix
      Posted on October 29, 2011 at 2:14pm

      If they did you would not know it. Muslims have a habit of silencing detractors. Christians tend to pray for their enemies. Terrorists supporting Sharia law tend to, well, terrorize anyone who dares to disagree. Remember authors who have to stay hidden because they wrote verse or prose critical of Islam extremists?

      Report Post »  
    • annelouisegelinas
      Posted on October 29, 2011 at 3:47pm

      CLEVER THAT IS WHAT GOD WOULD DO. I admire the man. And not that I want to see this happen, but when the FFRF finds themselves looking for any of us to defend them when Sharia Law hits them over the heads, we will climb up on that water tower and cling to our cross. We won’t look back. Matters not to me or any Christian that this cross is wounded like Jesus was. It is still a cross. And Jesus is still Jesus. God is still God.

      Report Post » annelouisegelinas  
    • LuigiK
      Posted on October 29, 2011 at 4:07pm

      I’m confident that FFRF will stand up for human rights and freedom from religion against any and all forms of Sharia imposition on the public. The solution to the religious problems of the world is for all religions to be kept at home and off the streets. Believe whatever you want, just don’t jam it in non-believers’ faces. And, religion should not have tax-exempt status . . . .

      Report Post »  
    • LuigiK
      Posted on October 29, 2011 at 4:10pm

      Eliasim
      you are so right! Jesus wasn’t a Xtian nor a proselytizer (as so many Xtians and Muslims are) but merely a man with a vision for the future of Mankind. Men made Jesus a religion so anybody who believes in the perfection of their God must assume Christianity to be faulty . . .

      Report Post »  
    • LuigiK
      Posted on October 29, 2011 at 4:19pm

      MARCI

      FFRF is for the constitutional Freedom FROM Religion. You can believe anything you want from Jesus to Tooth Fairies but you may not use Public Property to display your beliefs.

      Report Post »  
    • child of the King
      Posted on October 29, 2011 at 5:16pm

      To Doova, I don’t think so because they probably fear muslims more than the real true God.Christianity isn’t politically correct.

      Report Post »  
    • Bill1776
      Posted on October 29, 2011 at 5:44pm

      I have a cross on my home with red lights that light up at night. I hope you and others will join me in placing a cross on your property. If everyone would do this the anti-Christian ACLU and other hate Christian groups would be defected. LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE for God and country. .

      Report Post »  
    • henryKnox
      Posted on October 29, 2011 at 6:54pm

      @ENCINOM You are right, they misapplied the 14th amendment and that is a crime. We should repeal the 14th amendment. It was intended to apply to slaves in post slavery America. We have long passed the time when the 14th amendment is pertinent. The 14th amendment really needs to be repealed since it has been so badly misinterpreted and cost so many citizens their freedom.

      Report Post » henryKnox  
    • Mountain Mama Martha
      Posted on October 29, 2011 at 8:09pm

      They’re such idiots, they probably approve of Sharia law. Maybe they will be ordered to chop their own head off.

      Report Post » Mountain Mama Martha  
    • zheng ye
      Posted on October 29, 2011 at 10:27pm

      It is not the atheists who reach out to musslimms as a sign of religious tolerance. It is not atheist leaders who declare isslamm to be a religion of peace. It is both the christian conservatives and liberals who fail to see the threats of isslamm. Jews, hindus and atheists see isslamm for what it is.
      By the way, the adherencts of all Abrahamic religions who revere the so-called ‘prophet’ Abraham, who was a wanna-be child-killer who heard voices urging him to kill his son, are nut jobs.

      Report Post » zheng ye  
    • Tony in MO
      Posted on October 29, 2011 at 10:40pm

      Instead of removing one of the arms, why didn’t they put a point on one end and a shape like the feathers on an arrow on the other end and mount it on a swivel-bearing and call it a wind direction indicator?

      Report Post »  
    • kevinklaw
      Posted on November 2, 2011 at 9:42am

      Of course the FFRF would be opposed to Sharia law encroaching US law. They are against any church and state entanglement. Your question serves no purpose other than an attempt to make an association, in people’s minds, between the FFRF and Islam, presumably to insinuate the FFRF are terrorist. Besides, the idea that Sharia law is creeping into our legal system is a myth.

      Report Post »  
  • fdonnino
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:21pm

    YES! God bless these people!

    Report Post »  
    • Vechorik
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:09pm

      It’s not a matter of “them” and “us” Both Democrats and Republicans are part of the global government = new world order.

      Obama said “fundamentally transform America” but Bush I SIGNED the new world order. Here’s Bush I speech about it where he is calling for a new world order, just like Soros
      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uOxJUbMIwLc

      Report Post »  
    • kmichaels
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:35pm

      [Vechorik
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:09pm
      It’s not a matter of “them” and “us” Both Democrats and Republicans are part of the global government = new world order.]

      This just in, Vechorik is still insane. No doubt a Ron Paul supporter. Ah well, give them their 7% vote, which is about all they will ever get.

      Report Post »  
    • ltb
      Posted on October 28, 2011 at 12:17pm

      kmichaels
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:35pm
      This just in, Vechorik is still insane. No doubt a Ron Paul supporter. Ah well, give them their 7% vote, which is about all they will ever get.

      —–

      VEchorik may be a Ron Paul supporter, but he’s not insane. Both global communists, like Obama, and global capitalists like Bush 41, want to sell out American sovereignty. You’re going to see a one world government within the next few years, the question is will it be a global communist system under the auspice of the UN, or a global capitalist system under the auspice of the WTO? Either way, America will no longer be sovereign, the Constitution will no longer matter and you will no longer be free.

      Report Post » ltb  
  • Tri-ox
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:21pm

    After obama is kicked to the curb next year, this cross can be restored and Americans can begin to salvage what is left of our great nation.

    Report Post » Tri-ox  
    • RighteousTyrant
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:27pm

      This has nothing to do with Obama. Please explain how this is related to Obama, how Obama caused this, and why it will be fixed when Obama leaves office. I‘m sure this won’t be difficult since you’ve thought long and hard about your personal convictions.

      Report Post »  
    • PATTY HENRY
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:00pm

      Obama, being President, sets the ‘tone” for this country has clearly created CLASS warfare; Anti-Christian (Obama is Muslim…if you don‘t believe that I have some swamp land in Florida I’d like to sell you) .. since there has never been so much discord in USA…He started it, he owns it and when he is voted out of office in 13 months, the Americans who were sleeping, not now, will come back to stop this type of blackmail which threatens our freedom and all we stand for. THIS is just more in the attempt of the ANTI-AMERICAN’S attempt to demoralize AMERICA…make us rot from the inside so they can: Collapse the system. I THINK THIS MAYOR did a BRILLIANT thing. KUDOS to him!!!
      These silly people fighting with their last breath the ONE POWER who created everything and who is willing to give them ETERNAL PEACE LIFE if only they would acknowledge it…. this is THE war between GOOD and EVIL. PS GOD Wins.

      Report Post » PATTY HENRY  
    • Laureen1
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:20pm

      RT – Maybe this has to do with Obama because he seems to stand with atheists like he said he will stand with the muslims. Do you recall Obamas speech at Georgetown where all crosses and anything Christian had to be covered up so as not to offend? Do you listen to Obama cite the Declaration of Independence and purposely omit the word “Creator” from it? It will be fixed when Obama leaves office in 2012 along with all the other progressive pukes still holding public office. You think 2010 was a blowout?

      Report Post »  
    • kathleenlee
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:21pm

      For Tri-ox and Patty Henry…Absolutely, obuma has set the tone and owns the discord. I want our JudeoChristian principals brought back into the discussion. The constitution doesn’t say no religion, it says no specific religion will rule. How is it that the majority can’t fight the minority on this issue. We want the Cross, Star of David, the ten commandments etc restored to their rightful place in a land totally blessed by the LordGod. Ever notice that since God has been kicked out of everything, the country is going to hell in a hand basket…I’m sorry Father, you have given us so much, and we have given you nothing…please forgive us, the majority is awake and trying to rectify this abomination. Please help us, though we don’t deserve it. We’re awake now after years of trusting slumber…Our gov’t is corrupt. Help us fix it please and restore America to her once great glory, because of you. Amen!!!!!

      Report Post » kathleenlee  
    • VTDave
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:21pm

      RighteousTyrant
      It is not directly Obama’s fault but you have to acknowledge the fact that since he was elected the left-wing has been very much emboldened to come out of the woodwork to try and get their share of the “change” that he promised.

      Report Post » VTDave  
    • kmichaels
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:37pm

      [RighteousTyrant
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:27pm
      This has nothing to do with Obama. Please explain how this is related to Obama, how Obama caused this, and why it will be fixed when Obama leaves office. I‘m sure this won’t be difficult since you’ve thought long and hard about your personal convictions.]

      Obama certainly embodies what is wrong with America. I say, very much of this negative tone comes straight from Obama. Next time around, we’ll have other liberal socialist idiots with different names, but sort of the same old dumb routine.

      Report Post »  
    • goatrope67
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:38pm

      Not one moment in this story do I recall seeing a note from Obama saying “take this cross down”. So, it seems to me even if he is not reelected there will be no change to this.

      Report Post »  
    • kmichaels
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:42pm

      [goatrope67
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:38pm
      Not one moment in this story do I recall seeing a note from Obama saying “take this cross down”. So, it seems to me even if he is not reelected there will be no change to this.]

      You mean you figure Obama does not gather much of his strength from idiot liberal atheists? Hmmm, you’re wrong.

      Report Post »  
    • RighteousTyrant
      Posted on October 28, 2011 at 10:24am

      While I can see your point, this issue originated from an organization that exists regardless of Obama, and I remember reading about threats like this even when Bush was in office.

      Just more of the so-called “culture war” used to distract us from real issues. At the end of the day, does this cross standing or not standing help America get back on its feet economically, or pay down our debt, or reduce the defecit? Nope, it’s a distraction to keep good people (believe it or not, atheists and even Dems can be good people) arguing amongst themselves while the politicians do nothing to solve our real problems.

      Report Post »  
  • ThankBabyJesus
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:21pm

    Atheists have all the time in the world to not believe in God :) but I do pray for them.

    Report Post » ThankBabyJesus  
  • GardenoftheGods
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:21pm

    I like what the people of this town did so much, I’m putting a cross in my yard! When will this country stop letting the will of the very few override the will of the many? This must stop!

    Report Post » GardenoftheGods  
    • JMorcan
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:36pm

      Protecting the rights of the few is one of the few truly moral purposes of government. It’s also how we prevent mob rule.

      Report Post » JMorcan  
    • sarnold51
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:07pm

      @GardenoftheGods
      My thoughts and plan exactly!!! Every Christian in America should put a cross in their yard!!!

      Report Post » sarnold51  
    • kmichaels
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:40pm

      [JMorcan
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:36pm
      Protecting the rights of the few is one of the few truly moral purposes of government. It’s also how we prevent mob rule.]

      Ditching the rights of the many, to conform to the views of the ignorant few, does not protect anyone’s rights. Its just a retarded approach to existence.

      Report Post »  
    • Porchview
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 4:10pm

      Frankenmuth, MI also confronted this same issue and responded with crosses in their front yards. It worked! There is an ever-growing effort to delete God from our country and our history. Over a year ago I placed a cross in my front yard to show my support for America’s Judeo-Christian heritage. I began an effort through emails and letters to the editor to get all Christian Americans to do the same. It would be a beautiful thing to see crosses all across America on private property where no one can demand their removal. I love what this mayor and city have done. God bless America.

      Report Post »  
  • BertM
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:20pm

    Free Thinking… They do not have enough brains corporately to blow their own noses

    Report Post »  
    • RighteousTyrant
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:29pm

      Good thing it’s lungs and not brains that blow noses. Read up on your anatomy, kid.

      Report Post »  
    • Happy Killmore
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:55pm

      @Righteous

      Good thing it‘s brains that control a volitional activity such as blowing one’s nose then wiping after. Read up on your physiology, genius.

      Report Post » Happy Killmore  
    • Goobergregory
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:56pm

      Wow right.. that is the best you can do??? C’mon.. I expect better than that from a good troll!

      Report Post » Goobergregory  
    • kmichaels
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:44pm

      [RighteousTyrant
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:29pm
      Good thing it’s lungs and not brains that blow noses. Read up on your anatomy, kid.]

      The brain sends the signal to the lungs to expand. The brain then sends the signal to expell that air out as fast as possible. All controlled from the brain. Yes, dimwitted kid, read up on anatomy. Blowing one’s nose is not even an autonomous action.

      Report Post »  
  • RavenGlenn
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:18pm

    Speaking as an atheist myself…these atheists and agnostic groups need to grow up. A cross should not offend anyone that doesn’t believe in what it stands for. You have to believe in it to be offended.

    Report Post »  
    • Gonzo
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:23pm

      Thank you. As a Christian, I have often wondered why it would offend a non believer. I no longer believe in Santa but his image doesn’t make me go bananas.

      Report Post » Gonzo  
    • Bloody Sam
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:24pm

      If I were the mayor, I would have the missing arm of the cross restored but painted a light sky blue so that it appears invisible. Or better yet, a piece of thin Lucite.

      Or even better still, restore the arm to its original form and tell the FFRF to STFU and go eff themselves.

      Report Post » Bloody Sam  
    • Bluefish49
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:25pm

      The Mayor should have just renamed it from a cross to “Holiday” light stringer post.

      Report Post »  
    • RighteousTyrant
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:26pm

      Seconding this as a somewhat theistic agnostic.

      “Live and let live” is a fine principle to live by.

      Report Post »  
    • YPAB
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:29pm

      Amen! Thankyou!

      Report Post »  
    • JMorcan
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:42pm

      You’ve got it all wrong; no one cares whether atheists are offended. The underlying issue is the need to maintain secular law.

      Report Post » JMorcan  
    • IQ1402XALiberal
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:58pm

      I agree, as an agnostic, no one should be offended by religious symbols if they don’t believe. I think the mayor should have lowered the side arms at the ends by two inches and called it an arrow for the FFRF. At that distance it would not be discernible from a cross but technically it could be argued to be an arrow in court… : )

      Report Post »  
    • 00gabooga
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:02pm

      I agree completely. I’m a devout Catholic, but Atheists do not offend me. I pray for them. What I find funny is how some of them spend so much time and effort building barriers against someone they claim doesn’t exist.

      Report Post » 00gabooga  
    • kmichaels
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:46pm

      [JMorcan
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:42pm
      You’ve got it all wrong; no one cares whether atheists are offended. The underlying issue is the need to maintain secular law.]

      US secular law, dimwitted troll, allows for freedom of religion, freedom of expression, and freedom of speech. Seriously, genius you are not.

      Report Post »  
    • JMorcan
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 3:00pm

      “US secular law, dimwitted troll, allows for freedom of religion, freedom of expression, and freedom of speech.”

      And of course, execution of those concepts requires separation of church and state. Can I assume by your insults you’re not a Christian?

      Report Post » JMorcan  
    • reneelepage
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 5:20pm

      gonzo: Thank YOU as well as ravenglenn. I too have wondered the same thing. Your reply made my day. :)

      Report Post »  
  • 11:11
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:17pm

    these ‘freethinkers” fear what they don’t understand, Christ is always being persecuted for his message of love, JUST LOVE, and goons salivate at the words of marxists, communists nutjobs wanting nothing but chaos and destruction!? go figure!?

    Report Post » 11:11  
  • stopthelies
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:17pm

    They should replace the horizontal cross members with a circular disc, the same width as the cross arms were. That way, anyone looking at the tower would see a cross shape, but it would actually be a disc around a pole. Let’s see the FRTS sue then! If they can’t do that, the city should erect a sign that says, “This cross was desecrated by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Call them at _____”

    Report Post »  
    • Stoic one
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:26pm

      That is a great idea!

      Report Post » Stoic one  
    • Stoic one
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:28pm

      And here is the contact information…. form their own site:

      Freedom From Religion Foundation
      PO Box 750
      Madison WI 53701
      608/256-8900
      FAX 608/204-0422

      Report Post » Stoic one  
    • RighteousTyrant
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:29pm

      Unless you’re looking at it level with the disc, it will just look weird. Being that it’s on top of a water tower, no one is looking at it from a level point of view.

      Still a clever idea!

      Report Post »  
  • franko58
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:16pm

    I love this, congradulations people of whiteville Tenn. The thought of the towns people putting crosses in their yards puts a funny image in my mind. The image that I laugh at is, these idiotic fools from Freedom from religion riding through town seeing all the crosses and LIKE vampires they run from the light. This light is, the light of the Lord God and they hate it.

    Report Post »  
  • The Bushmaster
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:15pm

    These are the same morons who spout off about democracy and turn around and let 1 single citizen dictate !!!!! I say run that single citizen out of town if he doesn’t like the cross.

    Report Post »  
    • JMorcan
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:37pm

      The democracy you envision is mob rule.

      Report Post » JMorcan  
    • kmichaels
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:48pm

      [JMorcan
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:37pm
      The democracy you envision is mob rule.]

      The democracy you envision is minority rule, which is kind of retarded.

      Report Post »  
    • JMorcan
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 6:34pm

      You can file your complaint with the dead founding fathers.

      Report Post » JMorcan  
    • mickey94558
      Posted on October 29, 2011 at 7:53pm

      We are not a democracy. We are a republic. Minority’s have have just as much say as the majority.

      Report Post »  
  • oitsugina
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:15pm

    Good for these people….fighting back by placing crosses in their yards!

    Report Post »  
    • CatB
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:20pm

      I have bought a large nativity for my yard this year and every year from now on…. If anyone is offended — TOUGH! Way to stand up .. this is a great story!

      Report Post »  
    • Locked
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:35pm

      @Catb
      “I have bought a large nativity for my yard this year and every year from now on…. If anyone is offended — TOUGH!”

      Well, unless you live on public land, or have some restrictions on your development, I don‘t think there’d be anything anyone could do anyway…

      Report Post »  
  • CrackerKen
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:15pm

    I’m glad this town and mayor stood up to the anti-Christian antagonists of the FFRF. This is yet another case of this group of heathen going across the Bible belt and to small town USA trying to find a Christian based community to beat up on. I like the community response to this. Even though one arm of the cross was taken off, everyone in that town knows what it is and can still appreciate it. Those little towns don’t have the financial resources to fight these battles, which is unfortunate.

    Report Post » CrackerKen  
    • BertM
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:18pm

      Screw the FFRF. Not taking anymore of this crap from these leftist idiots

      Report Post »  
  • RevDave
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:14pm

    One person’s “bizarre” is another person’s “clever-” the FFRF got outsmarted. Good on ya, Mayor Bellar.

    Report Post »  
  • texasfarmer
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:11pm

    That’s some giblets.

    Report Post » texasfarmer  
    • moreteaplease
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:28pm

      It doesn’t really take gibs to make a group like this back down. They will bully anyone who appears to be weak, which is what they look for, but the moment you turn around and stand up to them, they cave in.

      No gibs needed to back these cowards down. They are just a bunch of miserable freaks who feel that everyone else is the cause of their misery. And, they hate the cross because it convicts them of their evil deeds and they certainly don’t want that.

      Report Post » moreteaplease  
  • standuppeople
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:09pm

    Beautiful. Peaceful, clever effective response.

    Report Post »  
  • HorseCrazy
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:09pm

    does not a large organized group of “freethinkers” as they have termed themselves make a religion? I am just saying when the heck are we going to label secular humanism as a recognized religious organization and start suing them for shoving their religion down our throats.

    Report Post »  
    • Marine25
      Posted on October 30, 2011 at 1:47pm

      They don’t qualify as a religion as they have no imaginary friends.

      Report Post »  
  • JLGunner
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:09pm

    Who offended who? People are rediculouse.

    Report Post » JLGunner  
  • Lloyd Drako
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:07pm

    I note that the very name of the town contains the word “e-v-i-l.”

    There is obviously more here than meets the eye, no doubt something satanic. . . .

    Report Post » Lloyd Drako  
    • Therightsofbilly
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:24pm

      I note that some letters extracted from your name can be arranged to spell………..

      LADY DORK

      Go ahead……I’m waiting for it.

      Report Post » Therightsofbilly  
    • kmichaels
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:52pm

      Rearranging your name gives us Dark Dolly. So what is your point, dolly?

      Report Post »  
    • Lloyd Drako
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 3:04pm

      You’re right, it’s an anagram, but not of anything in English.

      Keep trying, boys.

      Report Post » Lloyd Drako  
  • hi
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:07pm

    That is sooo cool. Blaze you have to get a photo of the homes with crosses in their yard!!!

    Report Post » hi  
  • Khthulhu
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:07pm

    I’m not exactly sure how they call this a win, since the cross has now had one of its arms amputated. I would define a win as securing a legal and binding court order that the cross stays put on the water tower. This is more like cutting off one‘s face to spite one’s nose.

    Report Post » Khthulhu  
    • pjmarshake
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:15pm

      It will be a win if they cut off the protion as a reference on how to make it BIGGER

      Report Post » pjmarshake  
    • theaveng
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:16pm

      Another option, rather than engage in the legal fight is to simply ignore the Freedom from Religion KKK Whackos. Just don’t show-up in court. That way the FFRF wastes their money on stupidity, and the town wastes nothing.

      Report Post »  
    • standuppeople
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:28pm

      @KHTHULHU What was meant for evil was used for good. People probably drove by that cross every day without even noticing it. Now, everyone will notice it. Not to mention that ordinary people gained the courage to exercise their right to freedom OF religion. A win! Americans will not be cowed.

      Report Post »  
    • kmichaels
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 2:55pm

      So your solution is to spend 100,000 dollars in court to give you the same result that the mayor got for free? I like the Mayor’s solution better.

      Report Post »  
  • HorseCrazy
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:07pm

    this is incredibly sad. I am so tired of people using lawsuits to bankrupt bully and extort people. what a sad day

    Report Post »  
  • dpselfe
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:06pm

    Love it!

    Report Post » dpselfe  
  • Locked
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:05pm

    That’s certainly one way of doing it! Kudos to the town: obeying the law, and sticking it to the PC crowd.

    Report Post »  
    • britlynz
      Posted on October 27, 2011 at 9:46pm

      I absolutely LOVE it. The cross is just a symbol… A reminder, if you will, of what is important to that community. They didn’t lose that reminder. Instead it became more powerful. In the coming decades, it won’t just be gazed upon. Instead it will be discussed and in that discussion values will be passed to the next generation.

      Report Post »  
    • GiveUsCourage
      Posted on October 29, 2011 at 8:23pm

      Yes, it will become more powerful! Like when Al Quaeda leveled the twin towers and American flags sprung up on every lawn. The witness for the defense!!

      Report Post »  
  • FToth84
    Posted on October 27, 2011 at 1:05pm

    What is this land that I’m living in?!

    Report Post » FToth84  
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