Host of "The O'Reilly Factor" responds to MPN

Ellicott City, MD - May 18, 1999: On May 14th, 1999 Bill O'Reilly, host of The O'Reilly Factor on Fox News, made what appears to have been thought of as humorous comments regarding the military allowing witches to practice on Ft. Hood. Mr. O'Reilly is famous for his hard hitting show and tough questioning of guests but attacking a religion is even unique for him. MPN has received numerous e-mails and calls from viewers of the show regarding his comments.

MPN sent Mr. O'Reilly a letter requesting an apology for the comments on the grounds that such comments as "... the Bradley Fighting Broomstick," enforce stereotypes that Witches wish to shake. In response Mr. O'Reilly read the letter from John machate, Coordinator of MPN, on the air and responded directly. "Mr. Machate, remember Father Guido Sarducci on the old Saturday Night Live program? He poked fun at Catholics. I thought it was very clever and was not offended in the least even though I am Catholic."

While Mr. O'Reilly did not apologize he did state that "I meant no disrespect to white witches..." and that his comments were obviously meant as humor. MPN has chosen to accept this statement and explaination in place of an apology, and responded to Mr. O'Reilly stating such.

We at MPN have a sense of humor, but we have to answer to the needs and desires of our members and those we represent. However, we also feel that the response made by Mr. O'Reilly serves the same purpose as an apology and makes clear that he did not wish to harm anyone with his statements. MPN will not take any further action in regards to this issue and hopes that other people and organizations will respond in kind.

Founded in 1992,incorporated in 1997 the Military Pagan Network Inc. acted as a store and group information resource for Neopagans in the military. The corporation now provides material regarding various Neopagan religions to the Chaplaincy, as well as fulfilling its original goal of providing contacts near military bases around the world. In 1997 the corporation expanded its services to include assisting military members with the proper handling of harassment and discrimination. In 1999 the IRS gave the Military Pagan Network, Inc. tax exempt status in accordance with Internal Revenue Code 501(c)3.

Note to editors: If you are interested in viewing additional information on MPN, please visit the MPN website at http://www.milpagan.org/ .
Copyright 1999, Military Pagan Network Inc.

-30-