Has Malden Crossed the Line?

From the Malden Observer, Fall Festival Announcement  10/3/2013. The article states  “ Organized jointly by Ward Councilor John Matheson, the Salvation Army and the mayor’s office, all proceeds from the festival go to The Salvation Army Youth Programs, which serve kids of ages six and up. Lt. James Labbe of the Mystic Valley Salvation Army said the program includes a four-week Summer Fun Club with crafts and bible lessons.”

Am I to assume that the city and wards will now be providing financial support for non profits and religious activities in the city? As a reminder it was stated in the article that city staff worked on this for over a year and they have been collecting a paycheck for this.  Is the city crossing a line here?   What ever happened to separation of Church and State?

Other notable quotes from the Observer

“ What a perfect way to bring the community together and to support the Salvation Army. “- Karen Colon Hayes, Community Outreach Manager, Office of Mayor Gary Christenson

“I think it’s an exciting collaboration because not only do the people of Malden have a great fall event, we can help the Salvation Army with their activity programs … We have been working on this all year. It does take a lot of preparation and time to add a new event. Hopefully it will be successful and we can have it every year!”

- John Matheson, Ward 3 Councillor

By the way John, the Salvation Army is a religion.  Did you use ward funds to support their Bible camp?????  And you are going to continue to do this???????? 
Same applies to Mayor Christensen.  Shame on you!  The city should not be in the business of promoting a religion.