I read with interest the article written by Melissa Newton in the Verbatim section of the Peninsula Clarion dated Jan 23. I would like to commend Miss Newton for bringing this article to our public attention ... and the Clarion for giving us the opportunity to express our opinions with the Letters to the Editor section.

I also read with interest the letter from Pamela Brodie (Clarion, Jan. 31). This will give anyone of interest the opportunity to see what was said by each.

I respectfully disagree with Ms. Brodie on many points, however, the one I wish to address now is that I believe she is confusing evolution with mutation.

My understanding of evolution is that it maintains, that through a long process it can go from (for example) an amoeba to a fully developed and complex human. This is not consistent with her example of a virus. It would be like expecting a virus to evolve into an enzyme.

On the other hand, what she describes is, a virus mutating as “it passes from one person to another, or reproduces within an individual.” Mutation is consistent with creation.

After all; created within Adam and Eve were all the genes DNA, chromosomes etc. that were needed to provide all the different characteristics of “man” — different color of skin, eyes, hair, different personalities, race, blood type, etc. — but still human and made in the image of God, by the way.

Science can do many things, but all within the laws of creation. Hybrids: for example, a horse and a donkey can produce a sterile mule, but that is as far as it goes. Vegetables can be crossed within their “families” but even then, if the seeds are viable, they go back to one of the originals. It cannot cross or combine species; and is required to use created “things” for what it calls its creations. I have great respect for true science by the way.

I am far from a “high school sophomore,” but I find Miss Newton refreshing and passionate about what she is learning ... more open-minded than those still parroting the old “evidence” of evolution.

There is so much good research on this subject available on the Internet. For example, answersingenesis.org/home/Area/isd/ marcus.asp.

Thank you for letting me put my 2 cents in. I could be misinformed on some of my opinions, if so, show me. I like to think I have an open mind.

Jane Simons

Kasilof