By Michael Curtis
Greene Publishing, Inc.
   The original Sunshine State Standards for Science were first developed and adopted 12 years ago in 1996.  Then in 2006, the Florida Legislature passed legislation that requires revisions to the Sunshine State Standards every six years.
   In the round of revisions that came before the State Board of Education for approval on February 19, included was the very controversial and intensely debated issue of referring to the science of evolution as something other than “theory,” instead using language that gave many the perception of it being framed as “fact” or “law.”
   In May 2007, a committee of 31 “framers” comprised of Kindergarten through 12th grade science educators including Exceptional Student Education (ESE) educators, community college science faculty, university scientists and faculty, business leaders and private citizens was assembled to help decide what should be included in the new standards. 
Following the framers’ feedback, Florida brought together a group of 37 “writers”, comprised of Kindergarten through 12th grade science teachers, ESE teachers, district administrators, community college science professors, university scientists and professors of science education, representatives from the liberal arts, members of the business community and key members of the original framers committee, to draft the science standards.
   In the end though, opponents insisted on different language, sending a simple message.  This message was not as formal or official.  It did not suggest that the plethora of notables who drafted the curriculum were attempting anything other than advancing educational standards throughout the state.  What it did suggest however is that billions of believers worldwide certainly constitute a consensus declaring that science must be grounded in religion and that God need not show up in person to “prove” it.
   Ultimately, the language that was originally proposed was amended to the “theory” reference only days prior to the vote.  Opponents would likely have been much more vocal earlier but due to the broad manner in which public feedback was advertised, many were unaware until articles began to surface.  In fact, following this newspaper’s article of January 18 reporting the Madison School District’s opposition to the original language, blogs began to arise challenging the story, often using language like “unenlightened” and “backwards.”  The phone brigade then took the march to the next level.
   The final scorecard: State Board of Education votes 4-3 to accept the language that maintains evolution as a “theory.”
   This is not the first, or likely the last, instance where science versus religion will occur and it isn’t limited to an educational forum.  As far back as 1941, during a conference titled, Science, Philosophy and Religion: a Symposium, Albert Einstein, perhaps modern civilization’s most noted scientist, stated, “Science without religion is lame, religion without science is blind.” Staff writer Michael Curtis can be reached at michael@greenepublishing.com.

Liquor Truck Wrecks

By Jacob Bembry
Greene Publishing, Inc.
   A wreck, involving a Freightliner van hauling liquor, occurred Thursday, February 14, on the interstate in Madison County.
   According to a Florida Highway Patrol report, Jerry Bryce Burchett, 34, of Green Cove Springs, was traveling west on Interstate 10 in the outside lane.
   Burchett veered to the left in his 2007 Freightliner van and traveled off onto the north grass shoulder.
   Burchett overcorrected the steering of the semi, causing the truck to veer to the left. The tractor-trailer overturned onto its right side and began to slide west, facing south on the north shoulder.
   Burchett rotated in a clockwise direction and came to a final rest, partially on the north shoulder and in the outside westbound lane, facing in a northern direction.
   Burchett received minor injuries in the crash.
He was charged with careless driving.
   FHP Trooper Michael Fillyaw was the investigating officer.

Miss Essence Pageant Set For Saturday

   The Miss Essence Pageant of Madison County, is scheduled to be held on Sunday, February 24, at 3 p.m., at the Van H. Priest Auditorium on the campus of North Florida Community College.
   This year, the pageant committee has expanded the pageant by adding a Jr. Miss division for young girls between the ages of 12-15 years old, to compete at the same time as the Miss Contestants (ages 16-19 years).
   Oliver Bradley, who is the pageant director, said that the Jr. Miss division was added because so many younger girls were wanting to enter the pageant, but the age limit was a barrier. We responded to the request, and the response has been tremendous. Bradley, also stated that by adding the Jr. Miss division, helps in preparing the younger girls for the Miss Competition.
   The purpose of the pageant is to encourage young ladies, to continue their education at an institution of higher learning by offering educational
scholarships to the winners. The young ladies also serve as role models for younger girls, in our community.
   The pageant previous winners, include Miss Ashley Parrish, who is currently enrolled at the University of Miami, and is a member of the Varsity Cheerleading Team, Miss Shamara Gibson, is a student at Florida State University, after earning her AA degree from North Florida Community College, and last years winner Miss Shara McNair, is currently enrolled at NFCC. Shara will also per form at this years pageant and crown the winners. The contestants for this years pageant are: (Jr. Miss Division), Tynesha Arnold, Alexis Hamilton, Tyresha Hill, Kennetria McQuay, Kortnie Page, Romane' Morris, and DonQuella Christian, The Miss Essence Contestants are: Kei'Shonda Baggs, Rashauntah Jackson, Crystal Ford, Pashon Graham, and Jekira Moore. The Theme for the pageant is "The Colors of Life."
   Ms. Edna Haynes Turner and Mr. Jerome Wyche will serve as Emcee’s for the pageant, which is called "The Event of the Year" because of the excitement it generates throughout the community. Mt Zion AME Church Choir, under the direction of Dr. Carolyn Ray, will offer special musical selections.
   The contestants will be judged on their introduction, talent, eveningwear, and an impromptu question. The pageant is being sponsored by Morningstar Baptist Church, WMAF Radio Station, inconjuction with North Florida Community College. Bradley stated, “the pageant committee would like to thank everyone in our community for their support, in order for the pageant to be such a success over the last three years.”
   Tickets can be purchased from any of the contestants, the Optional Two Beauty Salon, in downtown Madison, or pay at the door on the day of the show. Everyone is invited out and support our lovely young ladies.

Band Holding Fundraiser

   The Madison County High School Band is having a chili dog fundraiser on February 22 from 11-6 p.m. at the Madison courthouse.
   The $5 meal will consist of a chili dog, chips, dessert and a drink (canned soda or bottled water).
   The Band Boosters can deliver locally to you if there are six or more meals at the same place.

Red Cross CEO Leaves Amidst Unrest Over Floyd Termination

By Michael Curtis
Greene Publishing, Inc.
   Joseph Agostini, the embattled CEO of the Capital Area Chapter of the American Red Cross, the chapter that serves Madison County, has left the agency, but board members are not saying whether he was fired or he resigned.  Board Chairman Jerry Osteryoung said that Agostini is "no longer affiliated" with the Red Cross after the board decided to part ways with Agostini.  Agostini could not be reached Friday for comment.
   Although details may be lacking, it is clear that Agostini’s exit comes on the heels of his termination of the Capital Area Chapter’s Emergency Services Director, Chris Floyd.  Volunteers, staff, as well as city and county emergency officials throughout the region, were outraged and outspoken about Floyd’s recent termination and the perceived cavalier manner in which Agostini handled it. 
   Madison County Emergency Management Director Jim Stanley wrote a poignant and passionate email to Osteryoung, requesting Floyd’s immediate reinstatement.
   Whether Stanley’s or other complaints were the cause for Agostini’s release has not been formally acknowledged, although John Buchanan has been named interim CEO for a brief period until Randy Waddles can get up to speed, who will serve until a permanent replacement is determined. 
   "The Red Cross is united, and it has to carry out its mission," board member Gregg Patterson said. "We wish (Agostini) well." 
Staff writer Michael Curtis can be reached at michael@greenepublishing.com.