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Border War Intel
Find out what Wyo. thinks of this year’s battle for the Bronze Boot
THE RO CKY MOUNTAIN
COLLEGIAN
Fort Collins, Colorado
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Volume 121 | No. 62
www.collegian.com
THE STUDENT VOICE OF COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY SINCE 1891
the
Halloween Heroes
STRIP CLUB
With the predicted end of the world nearly upon us (12/21/12), it is time to start focusing our attention on ways in which the world will end. This week: the technological apocalypse of the Robot Uprising (already in progress).
Ways in Which Robots will Rule the World LEFT: Haruto Yoshikawa chases his big brother while donning his Superman halloween costume on the west lawn Wednesday evening. Yoshikawa is a refreshing reminder of why homeowners give out candy to young kids and not college students. (Photo by Hunter Thompson) RIGHT: A lone shark looks on as a group of Atheists and Christians duke it out on the plaza this Wednesday. As the two groups shout out declaring their opinion is right, the shark believes that both groups look tasty. (Photo by Kevin Johansen)
“Most of my friends are party affiliated and will vote for the ticket rather than vote for the candidate and I just think that’s studpid.” Chris Lopina | senior journalism major
Meet the Undecided
Some students still unsure of vote choice with less than a week remaining By KATE WINKLE The Rocky Mountain Collegian Five days remain until the election, and while the majority of Americans have already decided who will get their vote, a select few remain to be swayed. Roughly 5 percent of voters, including some CSU students, remain undecided at this stage of the election, according to Sandra Davis, associate professor of political science. “Some may be unhappy with the choices: they may agree with a candidate on one or two issues while they agree with the opponent on others,” Davis wrote in an email to the Collegian. “However, more undecided voters won’t be as attentive, knowledgeable or concerned about the election as many who have already made up their minds.” The undecided voters with the most potential to change election results are those in competitive races, like Colorado. It is also possible that the response to a last-minute event like Hurricane Sandy could sway undecided or weakly partisan voters, ac-
cording to Davis. Here are three CSU students who have yet to make a decision about their vote and what they’re concerned about.
Issue Split Chris Lopina, a senior journalism major, does not particularly like either presidential candidate. Obama has not accomplished much in his first term, and Romney is not a likeable person, according to Lopina. “No matter who I vote for I’m not going to be 100 percent for them, so I’m not going to be distraught over (the result). The one I pick is the one I like a little bit more,” Lopina said. Lopina’s hesitancy in supporting one candidate at this point is because he agrees with Romney’s anti-abortion stance, but likes Obama’s plan for universal healthcare. Cutting funding for Planned Parenthood aligns with Lopina’s Catholic-influenced beliefs. However, looking at other countries as examples, Lopina said he believes that healthcare for everyone is fair and works. Friends and family try to persuade Lopina of one side
or another, but he plans to research on his own before he makes his final decision. “Most of my friends are party affiliated and will vote for the ticket rather than vote for the candidate and I just think that’s stupid,” Lopina said. “I think you should look at the candidate rather than just the party.”
Stance Confusion Politicians seem to say anything to get votes, and that is the problem, according to Robin Carrera, a sophomore business major. He believes that by trying to please everyone, Obama and Romney’s stances on the issues are hidden behind generalizations. One of Carerra’s main concerns is the tax policy, but the candidates’ shifting rhetoric makes it difficult to discern how each would impact the country as president. “Basically, I want the facts,” Carerra said. To combat the confusion, Carrera plans to research extensively on his own, because he said it is the only way to know what is true. “I feel like it’s kind of un-
fortunate because a lot of the American people probably don’t know how to do that kind of research and maybe don’t have the resources to do it,” Carrera said. “A lot of people base a lot of what they hear on what candidates say, and what they say is not clear and always changing. We deserve to hear the facts and the truth.” Carrera watched the debates, but found they made him even more undecided because of the contradictions and the candidates’ inability to directly answer questions. His friends also do not help with his decision because he feels their answers to questions are biased because of their predetermined affiliation. “I want to make sure I vote for who I really think deserves it because I would feel more uncomfortable if I just picked a side and not really looked into it much just because my parents voted for them or my friends voted for them,” Carrera said.
Efficacy Doubt Obama has had four years in office to turn the country
around, but sophomore undeclared major Gus Wordem is displeased with his progress. And, while he liked Romney before 2008, the now-presidential candidate’s stances have become more extreme. The economy and job availability are important to Wordem, but he is unsure which candidate’s economic plan will help him and his family. Moreover, he does not know if the future president will stick to his current plans and honor them during his term. Uncertainty about the candidates’ potential effectiveness in office keeps him undecided. However, Worden is not worried that he has not made up his mind with a week until the election. He prefers to stay undecided and do his own research instead of letting friends or campaigns sway his vote. “I like to keep to myself and not have others’ opinions persuade mine,” Worden said. “I like to think about it for a while and make my own choice.” Politics Beat Reporter Kate Winkle can be reached at news@collegian.com.
Rainbow ribbons around the Oval spark discussion By BAILEY CONSTAS The Rocky Mountain Collegian Two rows of the Oval’s elms spent GLBTQ history month displaying the colors of the rainbow, and the display sparked discussion in the CSU community. A photograph of the display posted to the official CSU Facebook wall Oct. 11 received 75 comments, 956 “likes” and 149 shared links. Of those comments, at least thirteen could be considered negative and created a discussion that prompted a campus-wide email from President Tony Frank. Six were posted by the same profile. “The display generated considerable discussion and debate on Facebook and elsewhere — the type of dialogue that comes with being part of a college community,” Frank wrote on Oct. 23. “All in all, it was an important reminder
that our community is made up of thousands of people with different viewpoints, experiences, and identities.” None of the comments on the page were deleted and the entirety of the conversation is displayed, according to Mike Hooker, Executive Director of Public Relations for CSU. According to Hooker, Tony Frank’s note about the event was a chance to make everyone welcome and to acknowledge that there are issues to discuss. “It’s a chance to reaffirm the university’s commitment to diversity and to acknowledge the display. We have a commitment for discussion and dialogue and hearing the discussion that happens around campus,” Hooker said. Foula Dimopoulos, director of the GLBTQ resources office, was partially responsible for maintaining the display throughout the
week. The display “grew out of a brainstorm about what GLBTQ History month is and how to reflect the pride of a diverse community in which others would be invited to share,” Dimopoulos wrote in an email to the Collegian. Dimopoulos sees the ribbons as a way to face the discriminatory remarks and beliefs that are voiced against the GLBTQ community. “These displays are so important. It’s targeted for everyday micro-aggressions,” Dimopoulos said. This year was the first presentation of this scale to raise awareness about LGBTQ history month, and the scale is what could make onlookers question themselves, she said. “It means a lot when you see those things at that magnitude in the Oval with all of the greatness the Oval demands. It doesn’t necessarily eradicate (the deroga-
tory comments) for our students, but it provides a counterbalance which could make or break their day,” Dimopoulos said. Throughout the stream of comments the CSU Facebook page linked to their comment guidelines that said, “It’s okay to voice an opinion, complaint, or disagreement with another, but we ask that you do so in a constructive manner. Obscenities, personal attacks, threatening, harassing, or abusive content, and defamatory comments about any person, group, organization or belief will be deleted.” One of the negative comments left on the post reads, “how about celebrating hetersoexuals next month? or is that politically incorrect?” Brian Stewart, President of the Student Organization for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgendered, sees the dis-
play as a way to promote visibility for the organization. “As far as negative feedback, those people bask in so much privilege they don’t realize they were being degrading,” Stewart said. “Every minute of every day is heterosexual appreciation day through the media . . . to what we are socialized to see.” The ribbons may be gone from the Oval now, but the results of this display of pride, according to Hooker, could encourage steps to more cooperation. “We hope events like this make everyone realize there is a diversity of people on the campus and we want everyone to feel included and welcome here,” Hooker said. “There’s always ways to continue making people feel more welcome and included.” Diversity Beat Reporter and Entertainment Reporter Bailey Constas (@BaileyLiza) can be reached at news@collegian.com.
Cars
We already rely on robots when it comes to car manufacturing. They assemble chassis and weld various parts together. Soon, cars themselves will not only be capable of self-navigation, but also selfawareness. And we’ll never see it coming.
War-Bots
The military already makes extensive use of robots, from our drones that kill terrorists from the skies to robots that locate and disarm IED’s. Very soon, we begin to use robots in place of traditional infantry. Terminators and Cylons anyone?
The Internet
The Internet already rules over our lives. It gives us free entertainment, helps us pass the time in class, connect with friends... But it is our Achilles Heel. Our reliance is such that it can give the new robot revolutionaries instant access to our lives. Conquer the Internet, conquer the humans. The Strip Club is written by the Collegian staff.
2 Thursday, November 1, 2012 | The Rocky Mountain Collegian
Community Briefs Your corn has potential It’s a staple in the United States and Europe and a favorite food in nearly every other corner of the world –– and a prominent maize geneticist will visit CSU to discuss the possibility to make it potentially even more popular, according to a university news release. On Sunday, Nov. 4 from 4 to 5:30 p.m., Edward S. Buckler will deliver a lecture titled, “Corn – A Genetic PowerHouse,” in the Behavioral Sciences Building Auditorium on campus, asserting that the food’s complex genome, emerging knowledge and genetic tools creates op-
portunities for plant breeding More specifically, into a more drought-tolerant, nutritious and multi-seasonal version of itself. “That’s significant given the prominent role of corn in the global economy, and the reliance of people in developing nations on corn as a major food source,” stated the release.
What would make you run for 14 miles? That’s not a hard question for the CSU Army ROTC cadets to answer. On Friday, Nov. 2, they’ll run the game ball of the 103rd “Border War” between CSU and the
FORT COLLINS FOCUS University of Wyoming from Hughes Stadium to the Colorado-Wyoming border on U.S. Highway 287, according to a university news release. After the 14-mile run, the students will hand the ball to Wyoming cadets, who will carry it for 26 miles to War Memorial Stadium in Laramie. “The run displays the endurance and physical stamina needed for warriors going into battle, not unlike what is required of our ‘gridiron warriors,’” said CSU ROTC’s Lt. Col. Channing Moose. CSU has won the Border War 54 times, while Wyoming has won it 43 times. Chenghan Yang, 2.5 years old, enters the Mario Brothers themed El Centro office in the Lory Student Center during the “Decades of Scares” Trick or Treating Wednesday. Yang celebrated his first Halloween with the LSC, where each office was given a decade as a theme to decorate. (Photo by Erin Mross)
-- Collegian Staff Report
As a CSU grad, husband of a CSU grad, father of a CSU grad and as a college instructor,
I know that funding higher education is the smartest investment we can make. That’s why I work hard in the State Legislature to: Protect and extend public funding to keep CSU affordable and accessible Help good ideas from CSU make it to the marketplace Bring together CSU and local clean energy companies to create good-paying jobs that expand economic opportunities for all of us
I want to hear how we can work together! Call me at home: 970-221-1135 E-mail : johnk1@frii.com www.johnkefalas.org Twitter: @KefalasJohn Find us on facebook
THE RO CKY MOUNTAIN
COLLEGIAN Lory Student Center Box 13 Fort Collins, CO 80523
This publication is not an official publication of Colorado State University, but is published by an independent corporation using the name ‘The Rocky Mountain Collegian’ pursuant to a license granted by CSU. The Rocky Mountain Collegian is a 10,000-circulation student-run newspaper intended as a public forum. It publishes five days a week during the regular fall and spring semesters. During the last eight weeks of summer Collegian distribution drops to 4,500 and is published weekly on Wednesdays. During the first four weeks of summer the Collegian does not publish. Corrections may be submitted to the editor in chief and will be printed as necessary on page 2. The Collegian is a complimentary publication for the Fort Collins community. The first copy is free. Additional copies are 25 cents each. Letters to the editor should be sent to letters@collegian.com.
EDITORIAL STAFF | 491-7513 Allison Sylte | Editor in Chief editor@collegian.com Matt Miller | Content Managing Editor news@collegian.com Hunter Thompson | Visual Managing Editor design@collegian.com Andrew Carrera | News Editor news@collegian.com Elisabeth Willner | News Editor news@collegian.com Kevin Jensen | Editorial Editor & Copy Chief letters@collegian.com copy@collegian.com Nic Turiciano | Entertainment Editor verve@collegian.com Cris Tiller | Sports Editor sports@collegian.com
Kyle Grabowski | Assistant Sports Editor sports@collegian.com Kris Lawan | Design Editor design@collegian.com Nick Lyon | Chief Photographer photo@collegian.com
ADVISING STAFF
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Editor’s Note: News Editor Andrew Carrera interned with President Barack Obama’s reelection campaign this summer. He has removed himself from all political coverage including writing, editing and discussions – this include’s the paper’s daily editorial “Our View.”
The Rocky Mountain Collegian | Thursday, November 1, 2012
National Guard troops mobilized for Hurricane Sandy response By DAVID S. CLOUD The McClatchy Tribune WASHINGTON — More than 10,000 National Guard troops in 13 states have been mobilized to assist in the response to Hurricane Sandy, including more than 2,200 who are assisting with recovery efforts in New York, the Pentagon said Wednesday. Eric Durr, a spokesman for New York’s Division of Military and Naval Affairs, said that 650 National Guard soldiers and air personnel are deployed on Long Island, while another 400 are in New York City, with another 400 on the way. The Guard is using Humvees and trucks to clear debris, rescue stranded people and to help transport local officials in flooded areas. “They’re taking cops and fireman around in Humvees helping to rescue people,” Durr said. Thirty guard personnel are helping to lug fuel to the 13th floor of Bellevue Hospital in Manhattan, where the facility’s emergency generators are located, he said. Ten Black Hawk helicopters and other aircraft are being used for aerial surveillance and are assisting local first responders, he said. Two are being used to fly personnel from the Feder-
CLEM MURRAY | McCLATCHY TRIBUNE
A portion of Harvey Cedars, on the bay side of Long Beach Island on the New Jersey shore, is under water, October 30, 2012, after Hurricane Sandy blew across the New Jersey barrier islands.
al Emergency Management Agency over affected areas to conduct aerial assessments and one is ferrying New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, Durr said. An additional 350 troops from southern and western parts of the state are on their way to Camp Smith in Westchester County, 30 miles from New York City, which is serving as a staging center. Durr said the Guard was employing 573 vehicles and that 40 additional Humvees were being driven south from Fort Drum upstate. Six patrol boats operated by the New York Naval Militia, a local version of the Navy and
Marine Corps reserves, are assisting the recovery effort in New York Harbor and the surrounding waters, he said. In hard-hit New Jersey, 2,070 Guard troops are assisting in the recovery effort, he said, and another 2,100 have been activated in Pennsylvania. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has assessment teams on the ground in New York and other states to look at flooded tunnels and subways, Lt. Col Tom Crosson, a Pentagon spokesman, said. “They are doing an assessment of what equipment is needed” to help pump out the water, Crosson said.
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COLLEGIAN
OPINION Thursday, November 1, 2012 | Page 4
YOUR TWO CENTS
19% 21%
30%
30%
YESTERDAY’S QUESTION: Do you approve of Disney buying Lucasfilm? 30% Yes. 30% No. 21% Mail In. 19% Mail In.
TODAY’S QUESTION: What did you dress up as for Halloween?
*43 people voted in this poll.
Log on to http://collegian.com to give us your two cents.
This is an unscientific poll conducted at Collegian.com and reflects the opinions of the Internet users who have chosen to participate.
My Romney vote doesn’t disrespect same-sex marriage
By LAUREN STIERITZ
Yes, I endorse same-sex marriage. Yes, I voted for Mitt Romney. Yes, I can do both of these things. Doug Wright wrote a letter on Facebook to his GOP friends this week, calling them out for their Romney vote, entitled: "Dear Republican friends: Your Romney vote disrespects my marriage." He states by voting for Romney, one is saying: "'My taxes and take-home pay mean more than your fundamental civil rights, the sanctity of your marriage, your right to visit an ailing spouse in the hospital, your dignity as a citizen of this country, your healthcare, your right to inherit, the mental welfare and emotional well-being of your youth, and your very personhood.'" He goes on to say that Republicans who support gay marriage don't get to "walk away clean because (they) say (they) 'disagree' with (their) candidate on certain issues." But the fact of the matter is such: Same-sex marriage will not be legalized on a federal level should President Obama be elected for a second term. And as long as the issue remains on the conservative platform, it doesn't stand a chance. But pro-gay Republicans are out there. I am one of them and I stand by this. Sure, Obama endorsed same-sex marriage on national television. But as Romney stated in the first debate, “Let’s look at the president’s policies as opposed to his rhetoric.” “Mr. Obama’s announcement has little substantive impact — as an aide said, ‘It’s not like we’re trying to pass legislation,'" according to the NY Times report on the endorsement. Yes, Obama successfully repealed “don’t ask, don’t tell” in 2010. And Romney has since agreed not to reinstate the act should he be elected, and the progress that has been made will endure. If I (and others that share my position) don't vote for my conservative and Republican values and remain a voting member of the party I belong to, the party will have no gay advocates and the current laws, standpoints and struggles of the legalization of samesex marriage will continue to sit at a halt. If we don't start now, moving toward making gay OK in the Republican Party, we don't even come close to a chance at "hope" and "change". Romney was recently
asked what he would do if one of his family members were gay. He responded, “I love my children, and I love my grandchildren, and of course I’d want them to be happy. My view is this: individuals should be able to pursue a relationship of love and respect and raise a family as they would choose. I would like to have the term ‘marriage’ continue to be associated with a relationship between one man and one woman, and that certainly doesn’t prevent two people of the same gender living in a loving relationship together having a domestic partnership, if you will.” Romney may not be in support of equal marriage for all. Just like the majority of Republicans. It takes time. This does not mean I disrespect it. I will not vote against every one of my views for a president who stands for less than a handful of my social values. I will not conform to a party I don't believe in for an issue that will not change. I will not conform to following a president that has nothing to offer me but lip service. The gay rights movement will not fully take stride until the U.S. — Republican Party included — accepts being gay as part of our culture. It will take time. But without more gay and gay-ally Republicans, we cannot do this. Until gay marriage is accepted by both parties and removed as a political platform and agenda, it will not work. Right now, we need to focus on getting our economy back. Right now, we need to focus on becoming a country where we don’t have to move in with our parents after we graduate. This is what we need right now. I believe Romney to be a leader: a leader with experience as a successful businessman and a record that proves as much. He’s the one that will get this country back on its feet and will do it with his knowledge and expertise in the area. Just as any other American, I want what is best for my family, my community and myself. I want us headed in a direction where I won’t have to worry about my future children being able to find work. In these values, I am supported by Romney. We can make steps in the right direction by embracing same-sex marriage culturally, but right now — Romney is a logically better step toward a brighter future and Obama is a leader who will only continue to falter over his strategically placed rhetoric. I love my gay friends just as I love my straight friends — know that I am not disrespecting you when I say I am voting for Mitt Romney. Copy Editor Lauren Stieritz is a senior communication studies major. She’s voting for Mitt Romney. She can be reached at letters@ collegian.com or on Twitter @laurenstieritz.
OUR VIEW
Storm quells partisanship It is not often in our divided political system that you see two prominent heads of opposing parties cooperating together and complimenting each other mere days before a national election. President Obama toured New Jersey today, which has suffered some of the worst damage from the superstorm Sandy, and appeared with Gov. Chris Christie to offer a joint message of compassion and endurance to the community. “Your governor is working overtime to make sure that, as soon as possible, everybody can get back to normal,” USA Today reports Obama said. “We are going to be here for the long haul. We’re not going to tolerate any
blue tape. We’re not going to tolerate any bureaucracy.”
“It is refreshing to see our representatives put aside their partisan squabbles to focus on things that are really important, like really helping people in their time of need.” Tuesday on Fox News, Christie praised Obama, saying he
“has done a good job in the last few days for New Jersey, and he deserves my praise, and he will get it regardless of what the calendar says.” It is refreshing to see our representatives put aside their partisan squabbles to focus on things that are really important, like really helping people in their time of need. Now, if only they were able to work together without the necessity of a disaster. Our condolences to the victims who have been affected by Sandy. Now is the time to come together as a community and help rebuild and move forward. Donate to help if you’re able to and keep the east coast in your thoughts and prayers.
The Collegian Editorial Board is responsible for writing the staff editorial, “Our View,” and for the views expressed therein. Letters and feedback in response to the staff editorial can be sent to letters@collegian.com. Allison Sylte | Editor in Chief editor@collegian.com Matt Miller | Content Managing Editor news@collegian.com Hunter Thompson | Visual Managing Editor photo@collegian.com
Andrew Carrera | News Editor news@collegian.com Elisabeth Willner | News Editor news@collegian.com Kevin Jensen | Editorial Editor letters@collegian.com
Nic Turiciano | Entertainment Editor verve@collegian.com Cris Tiller | Sports Editor sports@collegian.com Kris Lawan | Design Editor design@collegian.com
Computers have passed their driving test
By SARAH ROMER
How often do you miss a green light because you reacted to it too slowly? It’s okay ––you’re only human. Still, if only there was something that could drive a car faster, safer and more efficiently. Almost like how a computer... wait. This isn’t a new idea. Google has been working on driver-less cars for over two years. According to the NY Times, Anthony Levandowski , a lead engineer on the self-driving car project within Google, said that driving cars “is the most important thing that computers are going to do in the next 10 years.” Though I’m hoping this comes much sooner than 10 years. Frankly, people are stupid, and regardless of gender, age or experience, we are all bad drivers at least some of the time. Google cofounder Sergey Brin, according to BBC news, has said that
driverless cars are “far safer” than those driven by mere humans. See, the difference is that humans, however smart, lack the ability to make decisions as fast as a well-designed computer. When driving, this translates to a slightly slower reaction time to respond to surroundings. This could mean not seeing some jerk cut you off until you rear-end them or it could mean giving the semi-truck a little extra space. The driverless cars Google is working on is capable of switching lanes, moving away from trucks, responded to being cut-off to prevent most accidents, and the coolest part is that it would give everyone a personal chauffeur. Want to go home? Just say so. The cars are controlled by sensors surrounding the car that give a constant feed of what is going on outside of the car to the processor. This would kind of translate to you having eyes 360 degrees around your head. And being able to understand all of that information. In a college town, specifically, this could prevent drinking and driving. But also, in Fort Collins, a town not designed roadwise for the influx of students that come every year, or the sheer size of the standard population Fort Collins has grown to, this could eliminate traffic problems. Think about the highway. During rush hour it doesn’t make sense that it slows down so much. If everyone is going the speed limit, traffic should theoretically keep moving. And it would, if
people could respond better. Driver-less cars can respond better. And they are already taking the road for a spin. Florida, Nevada and California have signed legislation to essentially give a license to self-driving cars for test purposes. Google has said that it has logged more than 300,000 hours in the car without an accident. How many of you can say the same? And yes, I’m counting that little scrap you didn’t tell anyone about because there was practically no damage to the other car so you felt like you didn’t need to tell them. The danger of using computers is basically that they can do anything really fast — which means they can do something wrong fast too. Are there still a few bugs in the software? Probably. But I’m fairly certain that there are a few more in people. I believe that Colorado should be added to the list of states that allow self-driving cars on the roads. Fort Collins traffic certainly needs it. Plus, there is the added benefit that up until the robot revolution where they overthrow their squishy human masters, we could all sleep a little bit extra on our morning commute. Wanna know something else? It can parallel park too.
Sarah Romer is a senior electrical engineering major. Her column appears Thursday in the Collegian. Letters and feedback can be sent to letters@collegian.com.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR Editor, Apparently Ms. Jordan never learned the scientific definition of a theory; what she gave was the definition used in other fields, and it meets the scientific definition of a hypothesis. Scientists have ideas, and they promote hypotheses to test those ideas. After the data is collected and verified, that hypothesis may
become part of a theory... It has been proven to the satisfaction of the scientific community. It should be pointed out to her that when she was taught intelligent design creationism in her school, she was not learning science but religion, as supernatural answers are outside the realm of science. Whether or not there is a god is not germane
in a course on science, and that's why the subject is not brought up. She should read Kenneth Miller's book, Only a Theory, to see where her argument falters, and to see the biological answers to those promoting intelligent design. The late Jerry Falwell always said about evolution, "it's just a theory;" he also lacked knowledge of scientific meth-
odology, but that is what is taught in the many Christian schools across the country, and it's absolutely inaccurate, but they are more interested in promoting religion than science. The danger is that the society becomes more and more scientifically illiterate daily. Brian Myres, Prof. of Biology, emeritus, Cypress College
Collegian Opinion Page Policy
The columns on this page reflect the viewpoints of the individual author and not necessarily that of The Rocky Mountain Collegian or its editorial board. Please send any responses to letters@collegian.com.
Letter submissions are open to all and are printed on a first-received basis. Submissions should be limited to 250 words and need to include the author’s name and contact information. Anonymous letters will not be printed. E-mail letters to letters@collegian.com
The Rocky Mountain Collegian | Thursday, November 1, 2012
5
ASCSU
YOU DECIDE:
Did the student Senate serve you this week? By SKYLER LEONARD The Rocky Mountain Collegian Editor’s note: The Associated Students of CSU Senate meets every Wednesday. “You Decide” is a weekly recap of the meeting written by the Collegian and published every Thursday. This week’s meeting: Wednesday, Oct. 31 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:20 p.m., Lory Student Center Senate Chambers. Curbing absenteeism and expensive, flashy student body presidential elections were two issues over which the Associated Students of CSU debated at their latest meeting.
1) Division of Internal Committees #4212: 29 minutes spent on this issue The student Senate is split into three committees that meet regularly throughout the year –– and if a student can’t attend their committee gathering,
Sen. Cameron Doelling proposed via #4212 to give its vice chairs the ability to call a one-on-one meeting with the absentee. Currently, if a senator misses two meetings in a semester, the committee can remove him or her by a vote. Opponents of the bill critiqued that it forced senators to physically meet with vice chairs to discuss legislation the committee is reviewing at the time. Some Senators brought up the fact that most concerns could be dealt with by email. In answer to this, proponents of the bill claimed that email is the wrong medium to provide adequate communication for committee meetings. An amendment was made to the bill to allow vice chairs to choose how to meet with absent senators so they are not obligated to set mandatory meetings. The bill was then sent to all committees.
2) Campaign Finance for Elections #4213: 90 minutes spent on this issue
NAMES, SALARIES, JOB DESCRIPTIONS AND MORE
The bill would decrease the amount of money student body presidential candidates could spend from $2,000 to $1,500. The legislation’s author, Beau Loendorf, Deputy Director of RamRide Return, said it would increase the creativity used by students and lessen the amount of money they use out of their own pocket, which makes the election more fair. Opponents of the bill questioned if the limit of $1,500 is substantial enough to change the election positively. Loendorf countered, saying that the proposed limit would discourage candidates from using expensive, flashy campaign tactics to win elections, as has been the case in years past. The bill was sent to committee. ASCSU Senate Beat Reporter Skyler Leonard can be reached at news@collegian.com.
Speaker of the Senate: Joe Eden, vice president of ASCSU Salary: $8,000 for 2012-2013 (about $250 per week), paid for by student fees (about $0.30 per CSU student). Editor’s note: The ASCSU vice president must also chair the Student Fee Review Board and help the student body president with additional executive tasks. Senators: Visit www.collegian.com and look up “ASCSU Senators 2012-2013” to see which students represent your college and the entire graduate program. Salary: Student senators are not paid. Editor’s note: The ASCSU Senate body must also attend weekly committee meetings and perform community service. Contact: The student Senate can be reached at 970-4915931, ascsu_vice_president@mail.colostate.edu, or in person at their weekly meetings every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. in the Lory Student Center Senate Chambers. More info: Each week’s “You Decide” is archived in print and online at www.collegian.com. Senate bylaws, agendas and minutes can be found at www.ascsu.colostate.edu/senate.aspx.
6 Thursday, November 1, 2012 | The Rocky Mountain Collegian FOOTBALL
Wyoming expects ‘street fight’ against the Rams By ANDREW SCHALLER The Rocky Mountain Collegian College football rivalry games can turn an ordinary game between two losing teams into something exciting. Such is the case for the 2012 Border War, which features Wyoming (1-7, 0-4 MW) hosting CSU (2-6, 1-3 MW) in the annual battle for the Bronze Boot this Saturday. “We’re expecting it to be a hard-fought battle. It’ll be a street fight from start to finish as it is each and every year,” Wyoming coach Dave Christensen said. “I think it’s one of those games where you can throw out the records and understand that both teams are gonna give everything they’ve got from start to finish.” Wyoming will welcome Christensen back to the team from his one-game suspension due to a postgame rant he made two weeks ago after a
video on YouTube of the coach swearing at Air Force coach Troy Calhoun garnered over 100,000 views in one week. The completion of the suspension allows Christensen and the Wyoming football program to put the controversial situation to rest and allows the 19-year coaching veteran the opportunity to coach his team again. “It’s great,” Christensen said when asked about being back with his players this week. “They’re excited, they’re very supportive and we’re moving forward now and there’s a lot of excitement around the program for this week’s game.” The Cowboys come into the matchup with CSU off four consecutive defeats, most recently against No. 21 Boise State, when Wyoming mustered only 54 yards rushing in a 45-14 defeat. In order to have a different result this week against
the Rams, Wyoming will have to cope with a Rams defense that forced five turnovers last week in a win against Hawaii. “They play a lot of different guys, they’ve got a good team speed and I think they’re very solid on defense,” Wyoming quarterback Brett Smith said. “I think we just need to be more consistent and capitalize on the turnovers that we get.” Defensively, Wyoming will be tasked with creating turnovers and stopping the Rams’ offense, led by redshirt freshman Conner Smith, who is the third CSU quarterback this season to make a start. In order to prepare for Smith, who made the first start of his collegiate career last week, Wyoming looks at what Rams coach Jim McElwain has shown offensively throughout the season. “It’s kind of like a week
HUNTER THOMPSON | COLLEGIAN
Linebacker James Skelton, 43, dives to block a pass in the second quarter of the Wyoming game at Hughes Stadium last year. This Saturday the Rams will face Wyoming again in Laramie.
one situation with a freshman quarterback,” Wyoming linebacker Korey Jones said. “You don’t really know too much about him, but we’ve got games on them and we’ve got a whole season on their schemes and what they like to do on offense. So I think that’s more of a help for us.”
The Cowboys will try to stop McElwain’s offense in an attempt to earn their fourth consecutive bronze boot trophy, a feat that would take some of the sting out of a disappointing 1-7 campaign this year. “I think it’d mean a lot especially with the struggles
that we’ve had this season,” Smith said. “We just have to be sure that we stay focused and obviously with the heated rivalry between the two (teams), there’s obviously a little bit more riding on it.” Football Beat Reporter Andrew Schaller can be reached at sports@collegian.com.
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The Rocky Mountain Collegian | Thursday, November 1, 2012
7
#Room-Antics
Daily Horoscope
Nancy Black and Stephanie Clement
JADE
TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (11/01/12). Financial gain is likely this year, especially until next June, when an educational opportunity may tempt. The winter solstice heralds a spiritual awakening. Three out of six eclipses this coming year are in your sign: It’s your year to shine. To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.
Wondermark
Tim Rickard
Brewster Rockit
Rochelle Peeler
Meh Comex
Ctrl+z
Chelsea London
ARIES (March 21-April 19) ––8–– Your work’s impressive and is building your reputation. A partner offers excellent support now so take a much-needed break. Love strikes someone at work for a lovely moment. TAURUS (April 20-May 20) ––7–– Be patient with a loved one who’s hard to understand. Continue generating income. Celebrate later with delicious treats. It’ll be easier to make household changes soon. GEMINI (May 21-June 20) ––9–– Use the emotional undercurrent to feed your art. Romance is as close as your own backyard. An older, somewhat eccentric person can help. Learning with friends grows the love. CANCER (June 21-July 22) ––6 –– Make a highly motivated promise. Pick up a nice gift for a loved one ... it’s a good time to express your feelings. Animal magnetism plays a part. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) ––8–– You’re stuck on someone, big time. Your intuition is right on. Play the ace you’ve been holding. Organize accordingly, and stash away any surplus. Contemplate your future. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) ––8–– Listen carefully. Despite temporary confusion, there’s a happy ending. Consider everything, but stay practical. You can afford it now. Listen to your friends. Love sparks fly! LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) ––8–– There’s more work coming in, and everything falls into place. Gather and store important papers. Friends help you make a connection ... the more the merrier. Upgrade home technology. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) ––6–– You’re quite attractive now. Love hits when you least expect it. You can travel easily now. Keep your objective clear, and call if you’ll be late. You have support. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) ––8–– You find just the right antique for the job. Think about what’s best for your family. Let them speak their minds. Attend a social event together. Heed romantic urges. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) ––7–– Good news comes from far away. A loved one provides valuable information. You look good. Dig deeper. A fascinating romantic moment allows freedom to share. Communicate priorities. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) ––9–– Friends act as mediators. Discover the treasure you’ve been seeking. Draw upon hidden resources, and think of more ways to save. Don’t spend the money before you get it. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) ––9–– Romance bursts onto the scene. Accept constructive criticism, and reaffirm a commitment. A female helps organize. You’re an inspiration to others, and a secret idea pays off.
David Malki
RamTalk
compiled by Kris Lawan That moment when the first thing you see on campus is a penguin on a skateboard and it makes you really happy, then you get told you’re going to hell. Only at CSU.
Daily cartoons and games available at Collegian.com. Send feedback to design@collegian.com.
Los Angeles Times Daily Crossword Puzzle
Treat: free condoms on the plaza. Trick: they all have holes in them.
Not sure if that girl is dressed up for Halloween, or if she looks like a slut every day of the year. It turns out going to the bathroom while wearing chainmail armour is not a trivial matter.
Text your rants to 970-430-5547. Want more? The first RamTalk Book is officially in stock at the Student Media office in the Lory Student Center. Buy your copy for $10, or get one online for your Kindle or Nook.
Find out if you got in! “Like” us on Facebook. Search for The Rocky Mountain Collegian.
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Submit RamTalk entries to ramtalk@collegian.com. Libelous or obscene submissions will not be printed. While your comment will be published anonymously, you must leave your name and phone number for verification.
Today’s RamTalk sponsored by:
Yesterday’s solution
Today’s Sudoku sponsored by:
OrderOn-Line
www.FIVEGUYS.com Best Burger - The Best of CSU 2008-2011 The Rocky Mountain Collegian
CAMPUS WEST • HARMONY ROAD
Across 1 That-funny link 6 Assistance 9 Tread heavily 14 Name in cosmetics 15 Droid, e.g. 16 Sine or secant 17 “All Summer Long” singers 19 Name of two presidents 20 Foot the bill for 21 Egyptian underworld boss? 22 Ibsen classic 24 Steep-sided valley 28 Available without an Rx 29 Electron home 30 Paraphernalia 33 Tough watchdog 38 Early Shakespearean tragedy 41 Process start 42 Not e’en once 43 “Sure!” 44 Wire service abbr. 46 Fairlady automaker 48 New England order 54 Imposed 55 Bothersome type 60 Visibly stunned 61 Wire fasteners, and a hint to this puzzle’s circled letters 62 Indian yogurt dip 63 Rhyming boxer 64 Tag line? 65 __ & Bacon: textbook publisher 66 Favorite 67 “Fun, Fun, Fun” ride for the 17-Across Down 1 Friday on the air 2 On a steamer, say 3 Getz of jazz 4 Get romantic, in a way 5 Imam Khomeini International Airport locale 6 Speed skater __ Anton Ohno 7 Pastoral poem 8 Marx’s “__ Kapital” 9 Oscar’s place 10 Fireside chat medium
Yesterday’s solution
Today’s Crossword sponsored by:
11 Hokkaido seaport 12 Actress Rogers et al. 13 Western party 18 Barrio food store 21 München-to-Wien heading 23 “The Maltese Falcon” actor 24 Stinkers 25 Working away 26 Swing __ 27 “Hand me a bat!” 31 Film composer Morricone 32 Country Time suffix 34 Tartan wraparound 35 Works on a cake 36 “Fantasia” hippo’s wear 37 Professional org. 39 Kitchen utensil 40 Tough row to hoe 45 High deg. 47 Hot-blooded 48 One of California’s Santas 49 Sanctioned 50 Prove useful 51 Teary-eyed 52 Pequod sinker 53 Payment option 56 Short range 57 Credit card name with a red arc over it 58 One who gets what’s coming 59 Business sign abbr. 61 Uniform item, perhaps
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6 Thursday, November 1, 2012 | The Rocky Mountain Collegian