Evolution is off the agenda of the Kansas State Board of Education these days, thank goodness, but a satirical “religion†inspired by the state’s science curriculum wars — Flying Spaghetti Monsterism — is on the agenda of the American Academy of Religion meeting in San Diego. The title of the Monday panel discussion led by three University of Florida scholars is “Evolutionary Controversy and a Side of Pasta: The Flying Spaghetti Monster and the Subversive Function of Religious Parody.†The event is not all in fun; examining the deity of “Pastafarians†is a way to ponder what defines a religion.
Meanwhile, just in time for Christmas, you can buy your own FSM tree ornament (in photo).
Posted by Rhonda Holman
Most of the critics of Kansas Health and Environment Secretary Rod Bremby’s rejection of permits for two coal plants in western Kansas have been from western Kansas. So there’s no gauging how the full Legislature would vote on any measure aimed at overruling the decision, let alone trying to override a governor’s veto of such a bill. But at least one key Johnson County lawmaker, state Sen. John Vratil, R-Leawood, appears ready to stand with plant proponents. “The Legislature needs to take legislative action to overrule Bremby’s decision,†Vratil said this week, arguing the state’s action could deter businesses from investing in Kansas.
That seemingly puts Vratil at odds with Sen. Jim Barnett (in photo), R-Emporia, a physician who recently said Bremby was right to consider the health effects of carbon emissions when he denied the permit (but also said there are more serious air-quality issues in other parts of the state).
Posted by Rhonda Holman
Maybe all the good ideas were already taken, but a few young designers in Los Angeles decided a homeless man named John Wesley Jermyn would make a great brand for their latest line.
The designers say that Jermyn, who occupies a street in a trendy shopping district (and was drafted by the Kansas City Royals in 1969), signed a contract allowing them to use his name and likeness on clothing and in slogans. The contract entitles him to 5 percent of earnings, but he often wishes to be paid in food, liquor or supplies.
His sister says the designers are exploiting her brother, who has schizophrenia and other personal demons. “I don’t want to see my brother get hurt,†she said to the Wall Street Journal. “They’re taking advantage of someone who is very vulnerable and very trusting.â€
As the designers continue to sell the $98 hoodies with his face on the back, Jermyn continues to live on the streets.
Posted by Kristin Mehler
