State schedules hearing:

MADISON -- The state Assembly Health Committee has scheduled a hearing on Friday, Jan. 25, on two legislative proposals designed to protect human embryos from destructive research and prohibit human cloning in the state.

The "Human Embryo Protection Act" is sponsored by Representative Steve Freese and Senator Mary Lazich. Assembly Bill 699 dealing with cloning is authored by Representative Steve Kestell.

Two proposals

The "Human Embryo Protection Act" would regulate both current embryonic research activities in the state as well as guard against any future attempts to engage in human cloning by prohibiting the creation, destruction, sale, or transfer of human embryos for research purposes. In addition the act proposes creation of a study committee to examine promotion of adoption as an option for "excess" embryos created through in vitro fertilization efforts.

Assembly Bill 699 focuses solely on the issue of human cloning. Under AB 699 human cloning would be completely prohibited. The bill does not distinguish between therapeutic cloning and reproductive cloning.   Full Story ...

MADISON -- "Celebrating Heroes for Life!" is the theme of an event that will take place from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Jan. 19, at the Inn on the Park, 22 S. Carroll St.

Participants are invited to attend a prayer service at the State Capitol afterward.

The event is sponsored by Wisconsin Right to Life-Dane County (WRL-Dane County), which strives to protect the unborn, the elderly, and people with disabilities.

Respect for life

"So many aspects of respect for life encounter the sadness of abortion, infanticide, or euthanasia," said Susanna Herro, president of Wisconsin Right to Life-Dane County.

"This day focuses on the joys of taking positive steps to promote life through foster parenting and adoption of children, including those who are differently-abled."

According to a survey in October 2001 by Wirthlin Worldwide, 67 percent of adults statewide say they oppose abortion, except in the most extreme circumstances.

"This educational morning reinforces that belief while stressing that foster care and adoption are loving options to abortion," said Herro.

Speakers of the day

Speakers of the day will include Mistress of Ceremonies Maria Burgos de Lopez, former Mrs. Wisconsin and a business woman who will share her increasing commitment to the pro-life cause. Full Story ...