Old Dominion News: McDonnells and Wexton

MoonHowler

There are lots of significant developments in Virginia today.  Former Governor Bob McDonnell and his wife Maureen have both been indicted for accepting money and gifts while McDonnell was governor. The charges are federal.  McDonnell maintains his innocence.

This situation is very embarrassing for Virginia.  While it doesn’t appear that any Virginia laws have been broken, the feds feel that federal law has been violated.

On a happier note, at least for me, Democrat Jennifer Wexton has won the special election for the vacant seat  created when  Mark Herring was declared winner of the Attorney General race.  This win is significant because the Democrats will  control the Virginia Senate if Lt. Governor Ralph Northam’s former seat is won by a Democrat.  A special election will be held.

Congratulations, Jennifer.

 

Virginia Creationism: Dickie Bell’s Bill

MoonHowler

HB 207

§ 22.1-207.6. Instruction in science.

A. The Board and each local school board, division superintendent, and school board employee shall create an environment in public elementary and secondary schools that encourages students to explore scientific questions, learn about scientific evidence, develop critical thinking skills, and respond appropriately and respectfully to differences of opinion about scientific controversies in science classes.

B. The Board and each local school board, division superintendent, and school board employee shall assist teachers to find effective ways to present scientific controversies in science classes.

C. Neither the Board nor any local school board, division superintendent, or school board employee shall prohibit any public elementary or secondary school teacher from helping students understand, analyze, critique, and review in an objective manner the scientific strengths and scientific weaknesses of existing scientific theories covered in science classes.

D. Nothing in this section shall be construed to promote or discriminate against any religious or nonreligious doctrine, promote or discriminate against a particular set of religious beliefs or nonbeliefs, or promote or discriminate against religion or nonreligion.

I just wonder what all this blather means.  Since when do teachers need protection to cover the SOL objectives in science?  I am not sure that most students have the background to argue their point of view on a particular science theory.  Could it be?????  About…RELIGION?  [best Church Lady voice]

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