NEWS- Pagan holiday: Flier policy inspires non-Christians

Published December 7, 2006 in issue 0549 of the HooK.

By LISA PROVENCE LISA@READTHEHOOK.COM


Veronica Michaelsen would prefer that Albemarle County schools not send fliers from any religious groups home with school kids via "backpack mail." But after the Albemarle School Board, faced with a Constitutional challenge, approved mailings from all nonprofits, including religions, Michaelsen and her fellow NatureSpirit worshippers decided to use the system to educate others about their beliefs.

And so the first mailing from pagans went home with Albemarle children last week.

Adorned with a cross, a Star of David, and a pentagram, the flyer invited recipients to learn about December traditions on December 9, followed by a "Pagan ritual to celebrate Yule."

The calls from concerned parents began almost immediately.

Former Republican city councilor Rob Schilling, now a host on WINA radio's morning show, went to the NatureSpirit website after hearing about the flyer.

"They're talking about witchcraft and magic. Is this appropriate to be sending home with school children?" he asked on his December 5 show.

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Looks like The Albemarle Schools will be rethinking their policies! Good for Veronica!!