Wants evolution taught as fact

There is an actual definition for the word "theory" as used in scientific application. According to Richard Fienberg, editor-in-chief of Sky and Telescope magazine, "A theory is a logical, coherent set of facts and principles that naturally explain multiple observed phenomena and makes predictions that can be tested and thereby confirmed or refuted." Do I need to define the word "fact?"

As a resident of Ventura County, I deeply resent the carpetbaggers who are coming into this community with their pious words and condescending attitudes. The one parent who doesn't approve of our textbooks is from another county. Let him send his child to a religious school in Los Angeles. County Supervisor Foy hails from elsewhere. He rode into town and swept up the voters, who only needed to hear that he was not a Democrat.

The First Amendment clearly defines what the government cannot do regarding religion. Does the phrase "establishment clause" ring a bell?

Apparently, Foy is not familiar enough with the U.S. Constitution, the First Amendment nor recent court decisions on the public school inclusion of socalled "intelligent design," which the court described as neither intelligent nor a design, so as to articulate his personal bias in a way that is the least bit thoughtful or informed. Has Foy even read about the Kansas Board of Education which recently declared its previous embrace of creationism as making it the laughing stock of the country?

The reporter described a trustee as a devout Christian. For real. How the heck would the reporter know that person was truly devout and who gives a hoot? And since when does a trustee's religious beliefs have any place in his duties as a public servant? I remind Mr. Matthews that his responsibility as a trustee is exclusively in public education. Run by the government and our taxes, not his church. Maybe he should not be involved in public duties as he shows no evidence of comprehension of the First Amendment.

If he believes that the absence of his religion in public schools creates a spiritual vacuum, he is horrifyingly ignorant of the quality and talents of the students in the public schools. These students strive to emulate the principles of our democracy, not the dogma of any religious institution. They understand that tolerance and diversity are the cornerstones of true democracy. They also know the difference between scientific fact and religious speculation. This, in spite of community leaders such as Matthews. Who the heck appointed this guy?

Evolution is a scientific fact, not a belief or opinion. Although the First Amendment may protect even ignorant speech, true journalism adheres to responsible and professional standards. This publication should be reclassified as a devout Christian mouthpiece, not a news source. Joan Bien Moorpark