With the battle over gun control issues heating up, we're wondering where you fall on some of the key points being debated.
The 2nd Amendment right to bear arms was written at a time when American colonists were under oppression, were anticipating a war to win freedom from a tyrannical government and carried weapons that could fire just one shot before having to be reloaded with gun powder.
Nearly 240 years later, weapons can be loaded with magazines containing 10 or more rounds, can automatically fire bullets in fast succession and, in some cases, can literally spray hundreds of rounds in a matter of seconds.
When they fall into the wrong hands, the destruction of human life can be devastating, as was the case just months ago with the massacre of school children in Connecticut. However, when they're used to protect someone from potential harm, they can be a lifesaver. Proponents of concealed carry laws say that not knowing who might have a gun levels the playing field and makes someone with ill intent think twice about pulling out a weapon.
In other words, there are pros and cons on boths sides of the argument.
So, where do you stand? Answer our poll questions below, and feel free to offer your opinions as well in the comment box.
LAST WEEK'S POLL asked Patch readers to tell us whether they think people put too much stock in weather reporting. Results showed that while 66 percent of respondents acknowledged they made plans and decisions based on forecasts, it was a 50/50 split as to whether weather reports should be taken seriously or treated with skepticism.
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