Much of the controversy occurring at the Statehouse since the recent legislative session began involves the Governor’s education reform initiatives. For the next three days, we’re going to look at the reform issues through the eyes of Dick Wagner, President of the Knox Federation of Teachers, which represents a majority of the teachers in the Knox School System.
Vouchers, tenure, and collective bargaining will be discussed with Mr. Wagner.
Indiana House Speaker, Brian Bosma, said Thursday that he would not call Republicans back until Monday after the Democrats make clear they will not return from an Illinois hotel before then.
17th District State Representative, Nancy Dembowski (D-Knox) talked with WKVI news about the party members walk-out that has caused many in the district to question the maneuver.
“It’s not easy,” said Dembowski. “We’re all sick about it too and it’s pretty stressful, let me tell you. I guess maybe it’s because I’m getting to be a certain age, but if I don’t stand up for what I believe, I can’t live with myself. At some point in time, you have to stand up for what’s right and I think we’re standing up for the people and to be a voice is what’s right.”
Texting and smoking bans are possible next year if legislators pass legislation proposed by a State Senator and a State Representative.
A statewide smoking ban is being proposed by State Representative Charlie Brown. Governor Mitch Daniels said he would sign a bill if it hits his desk.
John Hensler, of Hensler Nursery near Hamlet, Indiana, followed the trees he sent to Indianapolis, Monday. The trees make it on time for the ceremony, but the inclement weather prevented him from attending the affair. The ceremony for the tree provided for the Rotunda was hosted by Governor Mitch Daniels and the one for Lieutenant Governor Becky Skillman’s office was hosted by the Lieutenant Governor herself.
