House Republican leaders expressed disappointment in 18 of their Democrat colleagues who opposed a measure on Tuesday to designate a special week celebrating America's freedom in Oklahoma schools. House Bill 1874 by Rep. Dennis Johnson (R-Duncan) would designate "Celebrate Freedom Week" for Oklahoma schools the same week that Veteran's Day is marked in November. The week would be used to instruct students in the importance of the Declaration of Independence, the United States Constitution, and the Bill of Rights and other foundingdocuments and historical American figures. "This bill is one way to expand our children's knowledge about our nation's basic foundations," said Rep. Johnson. "Some things should absolutely be taught in school, and the core principles of our nation's freedom must be emphasized so they can be passed on to future generations." The bill passed by a vote of 80 to 18 on the House floor Tuesday. It now goes to the state Senate for consideration. "People-Who-Enjoy-Eating-M&M's Week' sounds good too," said Rep. McCarter (D-Marlow), in comments against the bill. Those voting against the measure included: Rep. John Auffet (D-Stilwell); Rep. Scott BigHorse (D-Pawhuska), Rep. Ed Cannaday (D-Porum), Rep. Wallace Collins (D-Norman), Rep. James Covey (D-Custer City), Rep. Darrel Gilbert (D-Tulsa), Rep. Larry Glenn (D-Miami), Rep.Chuck Hoskin (D-Vinita), Rep. Ryan Kiesel (D-Seminole), Rep. Al Lindley (D-Oklahoma City), Rep. Ray McCarter (D-Marlow), Rep. Ryan McMullen (D-Burns Flat), Rep. Jerry McPeak (D-Warner), Rep. Richard Morrissette (D-Oklahoma City), Rep. Bill Nations (D-Norman), Rep. Mike Shelton (D-Oklahoma City), Rep. Ben Sherrer (D-Chouteau), Rep. Dale Turner(D-Holdenville).

Labels: OK House, Rep. Dennis Johnson

Posted at 2/28/2007 12:50:00 PM