Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

KARA C, SAN ANGELO TX — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 15:36:57 GMT

Thank you for having good words to say about San Angelo. Being a lifelong resident of this city, I, like many others, am very proud of it. As for the so called tornado that hit here last night, that was a mild storm compared to 1995 hail storm we had. It was just another typical spring storm that just happens to be starting this time of year every year.We are a very lucky city and will always rally for our neighbors when they need help.
Sincerely,
A PROUD SAN ANGELO TEXAS RESIDENT!

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Cara, Seattle — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 15:56:13 GMT

Surely, the FLDS faithful will see this as punishment from the almighty on the gentiles for the sin of interference.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Dave Coresh, Philadelphia, PA — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:03:54 GMT

Apparantly the wakos of Waco are not alone, "deep in the heart of Texas!"

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

WT — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:06:51 GMT

Thoughts and prayers to the people imprisoned in the compound and the people in San Angelo.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Becky Smallwood-white; Glen Rose, TX — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:12:58 GMT

Don Teague, I enjoyed what you had to say. West Texans are the best!! My parents sure are!!! :)

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Christina Blackstock, San Angelo, TX — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:14:20 GMT

We thank you for your sincerity. I am not originally from San Angelo, but its home now (college). Texas is the friendlist place I have ever been, and I am truly happy that you have had a good experience here( minus the tornado, of course).

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

M Palmer — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:14:39 GMT

Rush will probably call it "punishment" for the immorality ans sins of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and he might, in this case, be right.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Becky Smallwood-white — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:16:27 GMT

Dave Coresh, what a SAD thing to say!!! :( Your state, as does the world, has a lot of terrible things happening, too.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Ramona, living in Ohio, but from Texas — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:20:57 GMT

Hello, those people are from Utah. Don't go blaming the Texans. And I'm sure nothing bad ever happens in PA. Like say, for instance, some wacko shooting up an Amish school?

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

dc — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:24:17 GMT

Sin of interference? for protecting innocent children from child molestation?! there is something seriously wrong with your thought of interference!

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

John Doe — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:25:02 GMT

Which wackos? The ones that fired into the waco compound? The ones that gassed children? The one who thought it prudent to raid the home of an individual who already had turned himself in for attempted murder and had that straigtened out? The wackos who mooned women and children as they played the sounds of rabbit slaughter all night if you mean those WACKOS I sympathize. This is not the same as WACO silly...

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Sean Sinjin — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:28:28 GMT

Please consider the notion that 'all' religions are cults, and the most significant reason that people believe in God, or Allah, or Zeus, etc., (other than intimidation) is to alleviate their fear of a permanent death. All religions are nothing more than ancient superstitions that have run amok and evolved to become pyramid schemes that only serve to control people and take their resources. From this perspective, all religions should bear the same scrutiny that this polygamist cult was subjected to. Before you condemn someone else's mythology, be certain you understand yours.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Robert Pennell, Fisk, Mo. — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:29:00 GMT

I agree no one deserves the wrath of severe weather, However their is no way anyone can say that these towns people did not figure out all the strange events happening in their town. How is it that these people got away with such atrocities for so long. I hope God will forgive them. ALL

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

June — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:30:02 GMT

Was sooo good to hear a reporter say positive, nice things about people! This gives people faith once again in the human race. You gave the facts & stated your opinions as "your" opinions, not as "facts".

Use to be reporters just gave the facts and let people make up their minds for themselves. Seems today media wants to manipulate peoples minds. Keep up the good work.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Paul Coulter, Oklahoma City, Ok — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:32:11 GMT

I sure hope we don't have another Branch Dividian, followed by a kooks like McVeigh and Nichols. In a week we shall have 13 years since the bombing. Believe me, the suffering has been extensive because of two people(I refuse to call them men).

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Ginger B., San Angelo, Texas — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:34:43 GMT

As a San Angelo resident, thank you for the gracious words about our little minicity. We DO have a heart for people. Our home suffered a few out of place things, but my closet became temporary refuge to my menagerie of birds, my cat, my husband, and myself. We are both infatuated with tornadic activity, however, I honestly don't know which one of us was more fearful.

My first statement to my husband was "Those poor people from the compound [which is only a few miles from our family ranch] must think that God is punishing the interfering town of San Angelo".

Indeed, this [the polygamy issue] and the tornado has shaken our town, but we strive to pull together to keep San Angelo a wonderful place to live as well as visit.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Dan S — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:36:01 GMT

I believe it was a punishment from the Almighty. But not because of interference from the law. It was to show God's anger against FLDS. The audacity of having a bed in a temple to rape young girls! Certainly our Feds will take away their tax exempt status. FLDS is and has always been a cover up for pedophiles and our country lets them get away with it. Much less the fact that Polygamy is 'ILLEGAL"! DUH?

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

JH, Lake Tahoe — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:37:43 GMT

Thanks for your compassionate and heartfelt story. I am tired of the cynisism.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

William Carter, Groton, CT — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:38:34 GMT

Have they ever announced who the 16-year-old girl was who called to start the attack or should we just assume that it was a thirty-five year old lady from the child welfare department drumming up business? I wish the kids in Hartford schools looked as happy and healthy as the kids captured at the FLDS.
Of course, the children would still have to be seized; a civilized country cannot tolerate polygamy.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Donna Mayfair — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:42:21 GMT

No, this was a message from the Supreme Being letting the FLDS faithful know that he is pissed and taking names. Shame on the FLDS for the abuse perpertrated upon babies and children. Wait till the Big Guy upstairs gets a hold of you.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Chinky , IL — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:45:48 GMT

Though I have nothing to do with any particular state as I am not American but I feel all humans are good and the same goes for the texans. It is only a few selfish sick people who tarnish the image of a state or place ,but it would be wrong to generalize evryone as bad.i hope all those rescued will be able to return to normal life and pray that this state does not receive any more harm either from nature or from sick humans.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Amy, San Antonio, TX — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:49:02 GMT

It might be prudent to note that the FLDS people are not FROM Texas. They were chased out of Utah and Arizona. Texas is a very large state, and has its share of problems, along with the rest of the world. The only news that gets published nationally is what is controversial or unusual. The media doesn't report on "normal" people...that's not "news".

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

chinky, IL — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:50:11 GMT

I believe regardless of the state that we live in we rae all good human beings with good intentions. But, unfortunately devils and YFZ compounds will always exist in our society, maybe reminding us about the difference between good and evil. It will be wrong to generalize the people of a state or country. they are as good as any othwer person in a different state. My heart goes out to the victims and I pray that they are able to return to the normal life style.
I also hope mother nature does not punish the good Texans with her fury anymore.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Dan Johnson — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:53:22 GMT

Digging into this sink-hole of sexual perversion and lies is long past due. The Salt Lake City Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints are probably on high alert damage-control mode because this whole sorid mess clearly starts and ends with this religous organization that embraced polygamy as a commandment of God, renousing it only for political reasons.

It's still very much part of their Doctrine and Covenant (D&C) scriptures and the practice of faithful L.D.S. male temple-goers who have 2nd and more deceased women sealed to them so they'll have multiple wives in the "Celestial Kingdom."

Anyone who's thinking of joining this radical form of Christianity should take a careful look at little known facts like the founder Joseph Smith having sex with their teen-age housekeeper unbeknown to his wife.

As a descendent of an early L.D.S. polygamist I am so thankful this man-made sexual perversion is finally being exposed for what it is.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Lily, Dallas, TX — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:55:40 GMT

Absolutely the people of West Texas are the nicest I've ever met. Their problem is their abundance of land. There are several palces in Texas where there's nothing but land, and if you are looking for a place to hide and do bad things, you might think that's a good place to go.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Barb Kelly, Bellevue WA — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:57:38 GMT

Ok - so the government are after the polygamists of San Angelo. What about the foreigners that are bringing their 3 and 4 wives that are parading the streets and stores of our other fair cities in anywhere USA, like Renton, Washington.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Joy M., Abilene, Texas — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:58:33 GMT

West Texas in the spring time!!!!
What can we say. The storms that moved thru last nite are pretty much what we get every year at this time, but still, there is no place like home for this West Texas girl!
Thanks for the kind words and hope you enjoy your stay.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Brendan D, Niles, IL — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:58:59 GMT

To all cults, sects, and other pseudo-religions with delusions of heavenly bliss:

STOP PREYING ON STUPID PEOPLE!!! God hates those who prey on the weak and weak-minded, so cut this crap out.

**Ahem.**

Thank you.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Ginger B., San Angelo, Texas — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:03:59 GMT

No. This was just an act of God. not punishment... come live in San Angelo for a year. this happens at least once or twice a year out here... just not always in the middle of town... a few trees were knocked over, a semi (who shouldn't have been driving in that kind of weather anyway) and two cars... It happens. Nature happens. Nobody here was killed, no houses destroyed, and the tornado didn't even touch down. Just 70 mph winds from the funnel cloud that went over the city.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:04:35 GMT

Before you get all worked up about the bed in the Temple, consider that it may be there in the First Aid room for anyone who is ill.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Becky Smallwood-white — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:04:45 GMT

I really enjoyed your comments, Christina, Ramona and June. It is nice to hear positive comments about the positive article.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Lily, Dallas, TX — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:08:34 GMT

By the way, people here trying to be open minded about "mythology" and "religion" should be commended but I'm afraid they are mudding the waters. What we are talking here is “rape”, “child abuse”, “virtual kidnapping” and “polygamy” all of them illegal and repulsive and brutal (some more than others, but all illegal).

I think shows like “big love” paint a pretty picture of polygamy and then people think that if their lives are OK then maybe we should live them alone. I will be the first one to stay out of consenting adult’s life. But we are talking about children. And the adults aren’t really “consenting” if they have no choice. If you are an adult but can’t leave a compound because you might be beaten or something might happen to your children, you are not “consenting”.

This is not about religious prosecution. It’s about criminal activity, pure and simple. And this is also about human compassion. We cannot allow those children to keep on being abused that way, those women to be prisoners living like subjects of their male husbands as if they were their “masters” in medieval times. Lets we forget, this is the United States 2008.

I could not decide tomorrow that I have a new religion and my religion lets me kill my relatives at will. Killing is illegal. Rape is illegal. Child Abuse is illegal. Kidnapping is illegal. Polygamy is illegal. Enough is enough.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

M J — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:11:33 GMT

I disagree with Sean Sinjin about the comment that there is no God. There is one and I have had a personal experience with Him not just internally. Just because you don't see a thing doesn't mean that you write off it's existence. Just because people do bad things doesn't mean that no one should do anything at all. At least with the Bible, if interpreted correctly, can serve as a moral guide for people's lives and maybe they (people) can discover the writer of the Bible, God for themselves. With anything, people are going to bend things toward their wants and desires such is the case for the cult in Texas. There are many cults and it looks like MEME is the next one but this time its a Godless cult with their God being their own belief system. We are all religios in one way or the other. Atheists have their belief in atheism to believe in. The evolutioninst believe in a mere coinsidence of a creation - like shooting a bullet from here to Mars and hoping to hit a penny while both planets rotate. I too was an atheist until God came along. Now I am not a religious person but do count on God to help me in my journey through this life. He wants to help us all but not through a religion through a relationship with Him. God gave us all free wills in that we by choice could seek Him. He (God) did not create robots that were programmed to follow his very orders. So people like Sean Sinjin can think whatever they want - it is their God given right although our thoughts could be errored at least in light of my thinking and reading of Bible scription.

God Bless,

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

LM Port Washington, WI — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:16:59 GMT

Harming children is against the law of society and against the law of God. Period. No one at FLDS is being persecuted for practices of faith but rather being punished for willfully practicing physical and sexual abuse of the most innocent.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Phil in NC — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:32:37 GMT

I was on a business trip this past summer and came across a compound in a small city that stood out from its surroundings. I was told that the beautiful and spacious building in the compound was the center of worship for a close-knit religious order and that the spiritual leader of the order lived in the compound. His was a strict patriachal religious order and he had absolute authority over everyone in the compound and many in the city around it. The group shunned all outside influences and would have nothing to do with the music and media that was so pervasive in "normal society". The women in the group were made to wear long flowing clothing that covered them almost entirely and all of the children and males wore extremely modest clothing. The group shunned all contact with vices such as alcohol and pornography as well as dozens of other vices accepted or tolerated in "normal society". Their religious beliefs encompassed the practice of polygamy and young women in their society as young as 9 years old could be married to an older male member. While these concepts and practices seemed strange and disturbing to me, I did not see anyone in the surrounding city lifting a finger to intervene to stop what was going on. Indeed, everyone seemed to accept what was going on as perfectly acceptable and normal. How could this be?

Perhaps it was because I was in Afghanistan. I saw the same things in Iraq, Kuwait, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia. The practise of Islam throughout the Arab world and in many other places on the planet accepts all of these practices as the norm and consistent with their religion. I dare say that few in the US would advocate storming such a compound or city in Afghanistan and taking all of the women and children into "protective custody" and arresting men who were married to more than one wife or to younger girls. The response to that act would have immediate and world-wide repercussions. We justify our "acceptance" of their actions as, "It is their religion and their business and we have no right to interfere."

Why then, is it OK in the US to do it? Just because a group has a different religion that they believe fervently in that is different than the "mainstream Christianity" practised in the US, this does not give anyone the right to decide for them (even their wives and children) what they can and cannot do. I can guarantee that there are pockets of Islam in the US that secretly practise their religion contrary to the laws of the US. Has anyone stormed one of those "dens of iniquity" lately? Ever?

Those people in Texas are practising a religion they have been raised in for generations. Our ways are as foreign to them as the people of the Arab world are to us. The Neo-Christians among us wail and knash teeth and rend their clothes at the sight or even the thought of such iniquity in their midst; however, they brush off as "none of their business" the rest of the world doing exactly the same thing in their own countries in the name of religion.

I'm not saying that everything the FLDS Church was doing there is right. I am only saying that, when you look at it from a different perspective, it boils down to the freedom of religion. Religion does NOT give one the right to sexually abuse (such as with the catholic priests and nuns abusing children for centuries) or to forcing children to marry and have sex. But, when Free Agency and true religion combine to allow people to act according to the dictates of their own hearts and concience, for the same purpose and with the same intent that you and I do, neither the government nor the "cultphobics" have the right to step in and impose their standards on the families involved. Where will it end? Will the government step in and take children away from families that believe in prayer over modern medicine? What about families where parents still spank their children like they were raised and site Biblical references to "spare the rod......."?

Stop and think what we are really expousing here. Government interference in the way we raise our families. Anyone who is different, or another religion, or does not practice what we consider "the norm" is next. Where does it stop? Do you think taking 400 children away from their parents and farming them out into "normal society" is the answer?

I don't and never will.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

A. Antonious, Dallas, TX. — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:32:45 GMT

God All Mighty is against immorallity and sins in any place of his creation. God allows punishment to let his people wake up. God is waiting for our repentance to return to his kingdom and live in peace and joy.
"Maran Atha", God is coming.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Nena, Mission, TX — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:45:48 GMT

Whatever is happening is happening for a reason. We shouldn't judge, judgement is for God and vengeance is for God. Only God knows why these things are happening. We do have a moral obligation to defend those who can't defend themselves and to uphold the integrity and virtues this country was founded on. The integrity and virtues our Father expects from us.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Becky Smallwood-white — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:48:18 GMT

This blog is slow as molasses. I have read many on the Christian perspective of the American Idol. That blog is very positive and upbeat about the song that was sung at the end. This blog is too slow and will lose people.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

gary wickersham/las vegas,nevada — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:51:02 GMT

Iam proud TEXAN who believes that my state is doing
the right thing.It,s a shame that this kind of stuff happens.The police here in LAS VEGAS caught Warren Jeffs.It was on a routine traffic stop.The state trooper seen who it was and held him until others
showed to arrest him.After Utah did their convictd he
is about two hours away in Arizona waiting to be tried.
Lets hope they convict him also.Because when TEXAS
gets through with him and this type of ignorance.
The key will be thrown away and no hope for daylight
possible. WHAT WAS HE THINKING??????????????????????

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

K. White — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:53:47 GMT

Now you want the head of the whistle-blower? For that reason alone is why she has not been IDed. Drumming up business? Sounds like you've got your own skeletons in your closets.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Tex Guthrie, Scottsdale, Arizona — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:54:22 GMT

Texas had the balls to do what both Arizona and Utah chose not to do; take these wacko pedophiles on -- and, eventually out.

Lest anyone forget, a few short years ago, FLDS residents of the Eldorado compound lived with zero interference while the fearless law-enforcement community in Arizona and Utah looked the other way for decades.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Beth, McLean, VA — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:55:13 GMT

Doesn't anyone recognize Dave Coresh from Philadelphia? Scarily too similar to David Koresh of Waco fame. There are too many people in this world with too much time on their hands.
Thank you San Angelo for taking these poor, lost souls in. Too bad there are groups out there "preaching" sin and sex under the veil of so-called religion.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

ReeALitTee — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:56:37 GMT

According to some of the comments, I guess that God is about as smart as a bag of hammers! What? Did someone tap God on the shoulder and say "Hey, check out what these folks are doing to children!" Then God said "Holy cow, I didn't know!!" So he decided to send a tornado to San Angelo (not the compound) as punishment? When it comes to God, the adult imagination is better than a child's imagination. One thing is for sure, the comments are truly entertaining! Oh, and please do not retort that God will send one for me...that is just plain evil and truly shows which side you are actually on!

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Judy L. — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:56:49 GMT

Polygamy, hell. No one cares' how many people these FLDS people are sleeping with, it's the kids that are important here and what their doing to thoses kids minds.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Ryan Nichols, Philadelphia, PA — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:58:46 GMT

Well, that was a nice write up. But as a person from the northeast I do not look at Texas any differently because of this situation. I am concerned though as the media spins the story the way the officials tell them too. Okay so the local human service agency goes in to look into allegations of abuse or neglect... But, now on t.v. I see FBI and other people that have nothing to do with child abuse even there. I could see the police for protection for social workers but why the federal government. I feel that we are not getting the whole story here. While I think it's silly for a 50 year old man to marry a 14 year old girl. It is only recently in modern society where it became a crime to marry someone so young. The age to marry 100 years ago could go as low as 13 or 14. Also, polygamy is not recognized by the government(you can't claim multiple wives as dependents on taxes) so it would seem to me that what they do in the confines of the church is up to them as long as they are not hurting people or planning to hurt people. This group seems more pacifist than anything.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Phil in NC — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:59:29 GMT

William Carter wrote, "Of course, the children would still have to be seized; a civilized country cannot tolerate polygamy."

Do we define "civilized" as everyone who lives and believes as we do? Is that what justified us taking the North American continent away from those who lived here, slaughtering the inhabitants, and taking their children and farming them out to "civilized" families to raise? Who or WHAT gives you the right to decide what is and is not civilized? Who or what gives you the right to decide that the innocent children need to be removed from their parents because there are two Mom's in the house instead of one. What exactly did the children do wrong? Did a court decide that the mother was unfit or did it just come down to the children need to be "protected" from a mother who has diffent beliefs than you? Society says that its OK to have two lesbian mom's in the house or two Gay father's, but heaven forbid those two Mom's have a man in the house, too. My goodness, what would having a man in the house teach those children? No, we choose instead to drag them out of that home and expose them to our society with all of its vices and social ills. Way to go America!!! Sometimes, you make me ashamed to be one of you. If I had a chance to be in the world and not of it, I would dare any of you to impose your social ills on me and my family. You spite everything you believe in by imposing your norms on these children and taking them away from their parents. You have no right, and, obviously, the children have no rights either.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

jackie bossuet, roseburg, or — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:59:42 GMT

Control, manipulation, forcing sexual experiences, forbidding freedom of movement and thought, frightening women and children with lies, abuse, hurting children and women--always wrong, always evil, always should be prevented if possible. Matters not whether it is by Muslims, "Christians", Mormons or anybody else--in this country, we're supposed to be free, protected from meglomaniacs and
able to choose our sexual and marriage partners. What a shameful thing these men have practiced and perpetrated on the innocent and powerless.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Mark, Killeen, Texas — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 18:09:28 GMT

Everyone talks about how Texas folk are "wacko" or what ever. I like to remind folks that the majority of these "whackos" are not native to my home state. For some reason though, they love settling down here. I guess they believe Texas is so big they can be left alone- wrong answer!!

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Becky Smallwood-white — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 18:09:46 GMT

Beth, I noticed his name (David Coresh) right off! It was a scary thought, too.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Jay Texas — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 18:11:05 GMT

First Aid room in a temple?

Bed(s) plural. Read before commenting, next time.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

ReeALitTee — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 18:15:09 GMT

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Hare Krishna! The Woodlands, Texas — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 18:15:12 GMT

There is a merciful, beautiful, loving GOD. We punish ourselves=KARMA. And yes, we do have a responsability to protect the helpless and innocent. Lily, you are right, those atrocities are sinful and illegal. But one does have to be a Christian, Muslin, or Buddhist to know that God does truly exists and to follow his instructions.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Brian, NY NY — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 18:18:19 GMT

In response to Phil in NC's treatise:

Polygamy is against the law. Having sex with minors is against the law. Each and every American has a right to religious freedom. Each and every American also has the responsibility of upholding the broader framework of this society, which allows us to do whatever we wish . . . within the law. Including, but not limited to, moving to Afghanistan to practice polygamy with children. So, if anyone wants to do that they should go there. And never come back.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Bob, Austin TX — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 18:33:16 GMT

Mr. Teague,

Thank you for the nice words. Texas is great.

Side note: Please make sure the FLDS folks don't get their hands on any Kool-Aid. I don't mean it in poor taste, I am truly concerned that they might do themselves in. Stockholm Syndrome is quite normal in cults/ sects, and if Jeffs tells them to drink, I'm sure they would.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Mark Carter, San Jose, CA — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 18:39:05 GMT

I'm shocked this is even happening in the US much less Texas. Texas should be ashamed! Taking away 400+ children? Do you know the trama you have caused? Go to any church collect all attendies and remove 400+ children from their parents. This is a sick joke. Some 1%+ of the population has a criminal record. If you gather 500 to 1000 you will unfortunately likely have 5-10+ bad apples. It's life. It's a fishing trip driven by Intolerance and Hate that is now attempting to justify itself. FYI: The wife/ child beater need to be locked up. And although I don't agree with polygamy or underage sex etc., BILLIONS around the world have similar practices. Get over it! A few officers with identification could have spent a few days at most and resolved this matter.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Mark Carter — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 18:39:49 GMT

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Denise Galloway, New Jersey — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 18:41:17 GMT

Any religion that says it's ok to have sex with children is not a religion,it's a crime and for the crime one must pay a price. Remember GOD looks after the young and the old. Death and the rath of the devil will be with the men and women who use childen for their own selfish pleasures.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

FD, Nevada, MO — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 18:50:00 GMT

I have read all the comments before mine and I can only say, "I have 10 grandchildren and among them are granddaughters age 17, 13 and 12. I cannot imagine them being married to a man in his 50s." Regardless of how you feel about government interference or people's beliefs, how an any man believe that he should be able to marry a girl young enough to be his granddaughter. I don't care if that is the way you were raised or not. I would be interested to know just how many of these men were raised with these beliefs and how many joined the church just so they could marry many young women.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

granny b — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 18:50:37 GMT

When will the other states with FLDS compounds decide that what is going on inside are against federal as well as state laws? How many more innocent children have to be raped and beaten before action is taken? There is a compound within a half hour of my home. Supposedly, the sheriff of this county has someone on the inside to report to him. Yeah, like some man in the compound is going to tell about the abuse! There are 6 children registered for home schooling. Who knows how many children are in the compound? The compound is growing by leaps and bounds, both in buildings and area. Yes, there is a FLDS compound in Custer County, SD! One woman beaten or raped, or one child beaten and raped is one too many! It is time for action against the rapists and violent people in all these compounds!

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Rebecca L, Alabama — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 18:51:43 GMT

Hey all you all saying "what is so wrong?" or that is what they do in Afganistan or anywhere else in the middle east. Guess what we aren't in Afganistan or the middle east we are in the United States of America where child abuse, rape and polygamy is ILLEGAL. This has nothing to do with religion though God through the Bible has said "A man shall have ONLY ONE WIFE" I cannot fathom who these cult members can rewrite the Bible to suit themselves. Like others have said it is a bunch of pedophiles using religion to get away with raping little girls and training young boys that this sort of thing is acceptable by God.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

YG EP TX — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 18:55:04 GMT

I believe that by our sinfullness we bring these kinds of bad things upon ourselves. God does not punish. God is a kind and loving father. The truth is that the bad dwells on this earth and because of our human weaknesses, such as selfishness, pride and lust, we bring this upon ourselves. How often do the good things that people do go unnoticed good things don't bring attention to you, the law and its people don't see the good, we always look at the bad and point it out. People should just take responsibility for their actions and stop pointing the finger at someone else.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

amy, Los Angeles, CA — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 18:57:26 GMT

Dan Johnson... as a descendent of an LDS I would expect you to understand the difference between LDS and FLDS. Perhaps you should do a little more research next time. LDS renounced polygamy over 100 years ago. FLDS disagreed and split from LDS to keep their polygamist practices. Don't villanize the wrong people. The LDS happen to be horrified with what was found in Texas.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Joe Rex, Baytown, Texas — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 18:58:27 GMT

I think Texas waited to long to raid the place but usually the police wait for something to give them a case. But, I am proud that once called the state responded to the call for help with an unstoppable determination. Texans can be proud that our cops will come to a childs call for help. Thanks COPS! Thanks CPS! Thanks Troopers, Thanks Gorvenor!
There will time aplenty and critics unending but you all responded and I am proud of you.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

elizabeth, arkansas — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 18:59:29 GMT

what bravery is being shown by the officials in Texas to protect the children and the women in the compound. I am just in awe that this is happening and it is so brave to do this. Sometimes enforcing the law is a very hard thing to do...If it saves one child, it is worth it...and it sounds as if it will save many children.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

tonia,hillsboro,or — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:08:02 GMT

Maybe the 16 year old girl who called is not sixteen after all but an older women who had enough and knew if she said she was 16 the calvary would come to rescue them. God will punish these men and their dirty deeds in his own time and way,This should not have any reflection on texas, they are some of the nicest and polite people I have ever met. and Sean Singin, I will pray for you that God will send someone into your life that will help you to realize there truely is a God, he loves you even though you don't know him hopefully it will not be to late for you.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Raymond Floyd — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:10:29 GMT

I have no problem with the knowledge of the hereafter being very quite, peaceful, and free of any pain or discomfort for I firmly believe all religions are cults and all are surrounded by fear as the only reason they believe in their God, or Allah, or Zeus, or what ever name they choose to use. All to alleviate their fear of a permanent death. All religions are nothing more than very old superstitions that escalated and evolved to become pyramid type schemes that only serve to control people and their resources. I believe all religions should bear the same scrutiny that this polygamist cult is now subjected to. Hey, I agree, all people world wide have the right to practice what ever religion they care to call it. But to condemn or restrict any religion is not to be done least all be condemned. Who really believes in any God, who?

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

B, OK — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:13:13 GMT

PHIL, GIVE ME A BREAK. IT GOT RAIDED BECAUSE OF THE THINGS THAT YOU SAID WERE WRONG. IT WOULDNT HAVE HAD THEY NOT BROKEN THE LAW!

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Jane Doe, Milwaukee, WI — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:13:41 GMT

Oh how sad that Phil from NC thinks nothing of girls being made to be merely babymakers beginning at the young age of 13.

This can NOT be the new "normal!"

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Shane, Houston, TX — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:16:17 GMT

Apparently some of the bloggers have not paid too close attention to the news. The cult does not and has never resided in San Angelo, TX. They were simply taken to San Angelo for temporary shelter during the course of the investigation. Those who made harsh comments towards the citizens of San Angelo might bother yourselves to become more informed so you don't appear so ignorant.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

J. Daniel — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:16:41 GMT

Mr. Sinjin hit the nail on the head. All religions are cults and are at the root of every nefarious act
of the human race. Until we resolve to live without the fog of religion this is what will continue to occur. To swallow and follow,wether old doctrine or new propaganda is a weakness still dominating the human mind.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Grandma Mimi, Princeton Texas — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:20:21 GMT

To Phil in NC. What is wrong with interferring with "religions"? Well, in the name of religion, a cult sacrifices babies to their gods are we supposed to keep quiet? Didn't you read what this particular so called religion does to babies? Spank them till they cry really hard, then pour water in their face to shut them up, make them so weak they can't cry anymore? We should allow these kinds of practices in the name of religion? What are you thinking? Where do we draw the line? Abuse is not of God period. It must be stopped. People hide behind the "religion banner" and we should allow whatever? You poor soul. You certainly need to meet Jesus. God is Love. Not pain.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

BIGMAMA LUBBOCK,TEXAS — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:21:44 GMT

I DON'T CARE WHAT STATE YOU ARE FROM OR RELIGION YOU ARE CHILD ABUSE SHOULD BE A PRIORTY.CHILDREN NEED PEOPLE TO PROTECT THEM FROM MONSTERS. SO IF PEOPLE WANT TO BAD MOUTH TEXAS LAW INFORCEMENT AGENTS FOR DOING THE RIGHT THING. THEN THEY MUST BE MONSTERS AND SICK MINDED PEOPLE TOO.PARENTS ARE SUPPOSE TO PROTECT CHILDREN AND I AM THANKFUL THAT THE LAW WILL STEP IN WHEN THIS NOT BEING DONE.THESE ARE NOT GOD BELIEVING PEOPLE OR THE CHILDREN WOULD HAVE BEEN PROTECTED.....

THANK YOU TO ALL THE PEOPLE INVOLVED IN GETTING THE CHILDREN OUT OF THIS PRISION. GOD BLESS YOU.

BORN AND RAISED TEXAS AND PROUD OF IT.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Patrick, Oregon — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:22:53 GMT

Phil in NC, Oregon already has a law to ensure parents of sick children seek medical attention or risk loosing their child due to neglect. I think it is pretty clear that in Texas the government is involved for the protection of exploited minors. Comparing this to the Catholic religion is a stretch as it certainly doesn't teach that its acceptable to have sex with minors, and, monetary losses & jail time of priests of late have caused internal changes to help minimize future incidents from abusive preists. Anyone that uses the veil of religion to cover criminal activity deserves persecution and prosecution. Comparing this to areas of the world that religious practices allow the exploitation of women and children do nothing to promote this as a tolerable practice among civilized societies that believe children have the right to become an adult and make informed choices of the heart and mind for their best interests.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Sarah SAN ANGELO TEXAS — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:25:32 GMT

The last tornado in san angelo was in 1995 not in the 1950

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

SM — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:28:33 GMT

Tex Guthrie said: "Texas had the balls to do what both Arizona and Utah chose not to do; take these wacko pedophiles on -- and, eventually out.

Lest anyone forget, a few short years ago, FLDS residents of the Eldorado compound lived with zero interference while the fearless law-enforcement community in Arizona and Utah looked the other way for decades."

That is not accurate. Google "Short Creek Raid." That is why the polygamists left Arizona! Note - the polygamists are broken from the LDS church - they are not Mormons.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Pam, Austin, TX — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:29:42 GMT

In response to Phil, the people who belong to the FLDS are not being persecuted because of their religion. They were served with legal search warrants and will be prosecuted for child abuse, endangerment and polygomy. The United States is home to people from all over the world and diverse religions. Everyone is free to practice their religion here - so long as it does not contradict our laws. Roman Catholic priests have been prosecuted for sexual abuse, Evangelical television pastors have been persecuted for tax fraud and so on.
There are many religions that are not "mainstream" in the United States, such as Wicca, Hari-Krishnas, the Church of Scientology and etc. No American will argue that these people should not be allowed to worship (or not worship) as they choose and we should be proud of that. We should also be proud that we do not tolerate the abuse of children, regardless of the context.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

DL, Balto, MD — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:30:09 GMT

The Old Testament preaches, an eye-for-an-eye, but if someone kills your relative, it is against the U.S. law to kill that person. What makes anyone think that just because it's your religion to abuse and rape children and women, it's protected? Freedom to practice your religion (or to have none) is guaranteed by the Constitution/Bill of Rights and can always be challenged by taking cases to the Supreme Court for rulings. Freedom to simply create, or modify, a religion so that you can disobey the law is not guaranteed. But, sadly, there is not just one sect, and other religions in the U.S.A. also abuse and rape women and children (female circumcision, for example). That sect of Mormons are just more open about it, believing that they are protected under the rights of freedom of religion. They should not only have their tax-free status changed, they should all be sent to prison. From what I've heard, the inmates in prison don't like pedophiles and they will let them know EXACTLY what those innocent children suffered!!

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

DH, Overland Park, KS — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:35:07 GMT

Quote by Sean Sinjin: "All religions are nothing more than ancient superstitions that have run amok and evolved to become pyramid schemes that only serve to control people and take their resources."

What? I don't think my moderate Methodist church has much "control" over me and whatever resources I give, I give to help others. There is no way you can compare this cult to mainstream religion.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

KJP, Idaho Falls — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:38:42 GMT

I agree with Lily . . . They justify their illegal activities (rape, child abuse, etc.) in the gise of religious freedom. Yet they hide behind high walls so they won't be discovered and say they are "protecting" their women and children. Pure Evil.

Also, John Doe, or whoever you really are, you sound as if you are sympathizer. First Aid Bed hhhmmmm. While generally vinyl covered (no sheets) they usually do not hold more than one person at a time. Why would it be significant if it was easily recognized as belonging in a first aid room?

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Some one in TX — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:45:02 GMT

To Donna Mayfair... The big guy upstairs will never see them... They arn't going to go upstairs for the sins they have committed. I hope that our nation can stop looking over seas for a day or two for a baby to adopt and look at these children that are going to need a family to take care of them.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Kay, Texas — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:46:18 GMT

William Carter, Groton, CT are you KIDDING??? I am the "35 year old woman from the child welfare department" I can assure you that we do not need to "drum up business". You seem to have missed the point, these men were "spirtually marrying" children. Do you have a daughter? Would you like to have her "wed" to a 50 year old when she is a 14 year old CHILD?? Please try to remember that the bottom line is protecting children. Not only the girls, but what is being taught to the boys -- that females only serve the purpose to make babies that sex at the age of 14 is alright. The workers for the child protective department are spending countless hours away from thier families and homes to deal with this horrible situation. I promise you this was not the way they would choose to spend thier time. It amazes me that anyone in this "civilized country" would think that this situation was acceptable. The children are not given any choices -- they are little robots. Is that the way you would want to live??

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

MP — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:50:35 GMT

What is happening here is not about religion, although the mainstream media seems to be heavily portraying it that way, this whole thing comes down to protection for the children. Once they got the phone call from a child asking for help they had to respond, if they had arrived and found no evidence to support the claims that were made by the girl then this thing would have been over, but that is not how it played out, they arrived to a much bigger problem than they had expected. Now we have to be patient and let them finish their jobs and find relief for those who need it and return the people who are unharmed and wish to go back, but apparently the only way for them to be helped in for this investigation to be completed

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

Tim C. San Angelo, Texas — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:56:09 GMT

Hello to all in web land from San Angelo,

I have to admit that article is the most positive I seen written on San Angelo and South West Texas since this whole mess started. I was watching CNN and some big time lawyer was going on about how this town would not be able to handle themselves in a crisis. He further stated that he did not think NY city could handle this type of operation. Well when the state officials came in they themselves could not believe the ease this event has been handled. How is all this possible you on the outside of West Texas might ask. Simple.
Start with Dedicated Local leaders in the City County and State agencies.
2nd, Have a broader community that WILL pull together labor and resources to complete a job. Those same volunteers will listen to those leaders when a crisis of any magnitude occursto get done what needs to be done. Thats the West Texas Way.
3rd, Create and practice disaster and contengency plans for the what if and what ever.
4th, Have several events in the past such as Katrina and Rita to hone your skills.

I have to admit I took offence as well when they referred to Fort Concho as a concentration camp. In truth, that was the best place to house the tennets from YFZ ranch while the investigation continues. This fort also happens to be next door to the state CPS offices. What a better place with limited travel to the offices all the while keeping them away from the media circus that has sprung up in this town.

To everyone out there in weblog land. This whole process was set in motion due to an investigation into criminal activities. This investigation has nothing to do with religion or the persecution of those of some religion. The facts are it just happen to be happening at some self proclamed "Religious Retreat".
It is a shame that everyone here from out of town and watching will leave soon and forget SA without checking out all to do in and around San Angelo when we are not the new news vortex.

So to the CNN lawyer on last Monday night. Before you speak, Hondo, Check it out. You might be suprised.

Now as for the storms....Well it is West Texas in the Spring time. Gotta love it.

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

becky Glen Rose, TX — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:05:24 GMT

Way to go, Pam. I agree. :)

Texas town hit by polygamy, then tornado

becky Glen Rose, TX — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:07:35 GMT

ReeALitTree, right on, sister!!!! :)