Opinion

There is something to be said for hard work and determination.

Editor: One of your readers wrote in the recent edition of the Houston Today about how some of us might be somewhat confused “these days.” I agree with his assertion that our society is driven by oil. Even the alternate energy possibilities need petroleum products. Wind mill have gearboxes that would require lubricants as do Hydro electric systems. There is very little today that does not have a petroleum component.

Last year I danced out of my comfort zone and competed in a local fundraiser for the Central Okanagan Hospice Association called “Swinging with the Stars.” I had never danced formally before and took a crash course in the jive. I didn’t feel even close to being ready when it was time to dance in front of an audience. But a funny thing happened the night of the event: being center stage for a few minutes was kind of exhilarating.

This past weekend, in way beyond freezing temperatures, I sat through my sons’ last hockey tournament of the season.

Editor: Some of us seem to be a little confused these days.

Well, if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em.

There is really just one reason for the ongoing controversy over the Foundation Skills Assessment (FSA). It is that the teachers’ union is opposed to the use--by any organization or individual--of any school-level student assessment results to publicly rate schools. My reading of the 13-year history of the FSA and the public statements and actions of union officials during this period supports this suggestion.