Columns

Where does a gun come from? Who makes a gun? How does a gun work? Who invented a gun? Is a gun dangerous? How does a gun hurt or kill a person? What is a weapon?
These high-profile questions have taken the spotlight lately, given the rash of recent shooting tragedies. Politicians are using the tragedies to vilify people who believe in the right to bear arms.
TV, newspapers and other media align themselves with the government in an effort to ban guns.

It’s probably fair to say that a lot of people in our society feel a healthy dose of skepticism toward many politicians.
It’s not unreasonable to feel that way, either.
After all, if you read the paper or watch the news, it’s not very hard to find reasons to raise your eyebrows, or even your voice, over decisions they make about spending your money.

There’s no question that people like having options. It’s simple, but true. In everything from smart phones to shoes, people take for granted the ability to choose products that fit their needs and personality.
That same desire for choices applies to larger, more vital goods and services.

We’ve heard the excuses about why South Carolina schools are so far behind others in the nation.
And, to be honest, many of the excuses are valid.
But that doesn’t take the sting out of the recent report that shows, despite all the effort and goal-setting to make South Carolina’s schools more accountable, we still are lagging way behind.
The S.C. Education Oversight Committee reported that goals established for the year 2020 may not be met unless there are drastic changes in the way we educate our students.