Florida Joins 20th Century -- Application for 21st Pending

So the "E" word is going to make it in the school books after a hard fought out, yet overly compromising squabble at the State Board of Education. But it's not evolution that our kids will learn about. It's "the scientific theory of" evolution.

This last minute added phrase provides an out for teachers and administrators when they are confronted by the hellfire and brimstone creationist parents as they form book burning parties when the newly printed textbooks hit the streets.

"Hey, what's the problem?" the principal will stammer, "We're just teaching a theory. No one here really thinks evolution is a fact. Just a theory, man, like gravity or oxygen."

This whole debate has helped bring attention to the bass-ackwardness that is this state's education system. Congratulations, folks, we are now competing with Kansas as the state most resistent to science.

The lunatics continue to hold sway over the asylum. Welcome Florida to the 20th Century. Your application to the 21st is pending.