As I’ve blogged before, social conservatives and religious zealots are gearing up to make Christmas the latest battleground for their whiny I’m-being-oppressed-because-not-everybody-feels-like-"witnessing"-a-thon. 

But that doesn’t mean they’ve left Thanksgiving off their plate.  Here’s James Dobson’s latest crusade:

Focus on the Family has announced plans to distribute 5,000 balls during Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to promote a website it operates that claims homosexuality is a disorder that can be changed through faith.

The balls – called "stress balls" are part of a major effort by FOF reach a wider audience during the holidays. Each ball carries the name of its advice site http://www.troubledwith.com. The Web site also carries faith-based advice on topics ranging from eating disorders to depression.

The balls will be tossed out by volunteers along the route and is not part of the official parade. Because they will be on public property there is little Macy’s can do. 

Shakespeare’s Sister snarkily comments:

I have to admit, I like the concept of throwing balls in people’s faces to try to cure them of homosexuality.

Yup.  And I can’t think of a better forum for Dobson’s stunt than the hopelessly family-oriented Macy’s Annual Thanksgiving Parade.  I’m sure Mom and Dad will appreciate having to explain homosexuality to their children as the East Denver High School Marching Band performs the Star Wars theme.