01-22-2013

TUESDAY, JANUARY 22, 2013

WWW.DAILYAZTEC.COM

VOLUME 99, ISSUE 57

President Obama sworn in for 2nd term

national Tara Millspaugh

jan 22, 2013

tuesday

“Great Balls of Fire” kicks off Museum Month travel & adventure Caitlin Johnson

News Editor

Staff Columnist

The National Mall was filled with an ethnically diverse crowd on Monday to watch the second swearing-in ceremony of the first African-American United States president.

President Barack Obama stood in front of a crowd only half as large as the one four years ago. This year, shoulder and breathing space was available in the mall, compared to the estimated 1.8 million spectators who attended Obama’s first inauguration.

Jumbotrons, Kelly Clarkson and Beyoncé maintained the excitement before Obama was sworn into office.

A Washington, D.C. official handed out free American flags to observers, who viciously shook them in the air at any opportunity they could. The excitement grew even bigger.

Even though his crowd was smaller this year, as soon as Obama approached the podium, the entire mall grew silent. His speech, both memorized and passionate, touched on some of the biggest issues Americans are facing today.

Obama is the first president to ever use the word “gay” in an inaugural address.

“Our journey is not complete until our gay brothers and sisters are treated like anyone else under the law,” Obama said.

He took advantage of the millions of viewers watching his speech to support marriage equality. When this statement was said, a few spectators looked around the crowd in an uncomfortable manner, but a few seconds after, it was met with cheer-

President Obama and first lady Michelle Obama attend inaugural festivities following the inauguration ceremony, which took place on the steps of the Capitol Building.

ing and more flag-waving.

Obama was not hesitant to adObama also embraced this time dress the current, forlorn climate to speak of his outlook on immi- conditions. He stressed the imporgration. A group of high school stu- tance of sustainable energy in order dents traveled from Saudi Arabia to to secure a safe and enjoyable world watch the inauguration and were for future generations. quickly in awe as the 44th president During his speech, there were inspoke of his hopes for the future of stances when Obama would pause, immigration. appearing to wait for an applause “Even though I’m not from Amer- that never came. ica, I feel united today,” 16-year-old The crowd cheered more loudly Fatim Amir said. for Beyoncé after she concluded the Young Amir stressed that she one last line of the national anthem than day hopes to live in America, and during Obama’s speech.

Obama’s words gave her hope.

Nonetheless, as people chanted “Our journey is not complete until “Obama, Obama, Obama,” the feelwe find a better way to welcome the ing in the air was one of empowerstriving, hopeful immigrants who ment. The speech emphasized how still see America as a land of oppor- this nation was not shaped by one tunity,” Obama said, followed by president but by all the founding roaring applause. fathers in the past, and now it’s up

mct campus

to us as individuals to make a difference.

People from around the world came to attend this historical day.

Many of them braved the cold, wearing thick gloves, scarves and hats. Hundreds of vendors sold Obama pins, T-shirts and calendars.

Although the entire ceremony had ended within two hours, sacrifices were made by those who attended.

America is fortunate to transition from leader and political party without revolt. Although disagreements are inevitable within political parties, at the end of the day, democracy holds the U.S. together.

As the 57th inauguration came to an end, and Obama officially began his second term, America welcomed him as president.

33rd annual MLK parade celebrates diversity

local Emily Ayers Staff Writer

Red and black balloons floated above a group of San Diego State students, faculty and family who came together to commemorate one of the most influential civil rights leaders by marching in the 33rd annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Parade.

The Sunday march stretched along Harbor Drive as people from all ethnic and religious backgrounds throughout San Diego celebrated King’s battle and achievements.

Pre-parade excitement was everywhere as high school bands from throughout San Diego fine-tuned their songs, African-American fraternities and sororities perfected their steps and elementary school dance teams practiced their moves one last time before allowing themselves to relax until 2 p.m. and the start of the parade.

“This event is a great opportunity to celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King, and to celebrate a renewed richness for all cultures and communities,” SDSU Chief Diversity Officer Aaron Bruce said.

“With SDSU’s new strategic plan to focus on diversity, along with the fact that we were ranked one of the top 20 most ethnically diverse schools in the nation, it really makes it easy for us to

come out and fully support this amazing parade,” Bruce said.

This diversity was apparent in the crowd of onlookers as well as the parade performers. Students from various universities showed their support, while women from the Red Hat Society and a handful of high school and ethnic organizations from all around San Diego used their talent to cel-

ebrate the day. hand enhanced the symbolism of the Reflecting on the whole experience, celebration. sophomore Kevin Hancock said, “I Director of the Office of Interculthink it is great to be a part of this, just tural Relations Tanis Stark said how, to see how far we have come in these “It is one of the special times where the past 56 years as far as equality and university truly comes together and all the great progress that has been where we cross race, creed, color lines, made.” ethnicities, and social status to unite Watching a community fulfill under one umbrella of social justice King’s dream of walking hand in and humanity.”

SDSU students and faculty attended the 33rd annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. parade.

antonio zaragoza , editor in chief

The air is warm and damp.

The land is teeming with countless unnamed plant and animal species, all surviving on a day-to-day basis. Life is thriving in this beautiful world, a virgin to human touch as it carries on in the most primal and instinctual ways. Suddenly, the sky grows blindingly bright and the air temperature increases rapidly. Creatures begin to flee as they sense impending danger. But their efforts are in vain, for the following impact of the massive cosmic body is only the beginning of one of the most KICKER continued on page 3

Video games battle undeserved violent criticism video games

Caitlin Johnson Staff Columnist

W

hen I was a staff columnist for my high school newspaper in 2005, I remember covering the idea that violent video games contribute to real-world violence. This was eight years ago. I’m almost surprised to be revisiting this topic once again. The demon of social anxiety in response to recent shootings across the nation has once again reared its ugly head, and I find myself picking up my pen in defense, hopefully for the last time.

Let me begin by defining myself as a gamer. I have been stomping Goombas with Mario since I was old enough to hold a controller. For years I’ve ventured with Link across many different incarnations of Hyrule. I know my games, and I know the industry. I know its role in the media and I can understand its influences on society. What I can’t understand is why, after 25 years of study, we cannot seem to reach a conclusion about whether or not playing violent games fuels a person’s desire to kill.

Perhaps no evidence is a good thing. For one, it has allowed the gaming industry to regulate itself, which arguably protects free speech. But this is not an argument about whether or not additional studies should be funded.

VIDEO GAMES continued on page 7

2 | News

Volume 99, issue 57 | Tuesday , january 22, 2013

Feinstein supports strict gun contol laws

national Michele Pluss Staff Writer

Following the tragedy that occurred at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, the nation has been in an uproar about gun control. The deaths of the 20 children and six teachers that occurred a little more than a week before Christmas has taken center stage in discussions among the public, politicians and lawmakers.

Calif. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, known for her strict stance on gun control, has become a forerunner in this reemerged debate on the issue.

As I have said many times before—and now repeat in the wake of yet another tragedy— weapons of war dont belong on our streets ... dianne feinstein

california senator

Feinstein is no stranger to gun violence, having ascended to the seat of San Francisco mayor in 1978 after Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk were both gunned down in City Hall. Feinstein also authored the 1994 ban on assault weapons, signed into effect by former President Bill Clinton.

In the wake of Sandy Hook, Feinstein released a statement saying, “I am horrified and incensed by today’s tragedy in Connecticut. These massacres don’t seem to stop—they continue on and on … As I have said many times before—and now repeat in the wake of yet another tragedy—weapons of war don’t

California Senator Dianne Feinstein, known for her stance on gun control talks to representatives. Feinstein recently updated a bill that will crack down on the sale, production and transportation of firearms.

belong on our streets or in our theaters, shopping malls and, most of all, our schools.”

Feinstein’s statement also said she hoped and trusted “in the next session of Congress there will be sustained and thoughtful debate about America’s gun culture and

our responsibility to prevent more loss of life.”

Feinstein had already been working on an updated revision of the Assault Weapon Ban—which expired in 2004—prior to the Sandy Hook shooting, but the events at the elementary school added a re-

newed sense of urgency to enforce stricter regulations on purchasing and owning guns.

Feinstein’s updated bill will crack down on the sale, production, transfer and importation of 100 specifically named firearms, including certain semiautomatic

mct campus

rifles, handguns and shotguns. It will also ban the production of any ammunition magazines which hold more than 10 rounds. Provisions for existing gun owners and game hunters have been factored into the bill as well.

Low-floor cars incorporated to all San Diego trolley lines local Amanda Guerrero Staff Writer

The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System commemorated the completion of the second phase in a three-part renovation project on Jan. 9.

The $720 million Trolley Renewal Project, which began construction Fall 2010, is divided according to the three San Diego trolley lines: the Green, Orange and Blue lines.

Funded by TransNet sales tax, state bonds and federal money, costs for the project included $271

They’re a lot more effective in getting people on and off the trolley, especially the handicapped. It makes things go by a lot easier. david lucero

homeland security graduate

million to purchase 65 low-floor cars from the Sacramento-based company Siemens. The 81-footlong cars were first installed on the Green Line, making the trolley cars an ideal size to be used in downtown without blocking intersections.

The installation of low-floor cars, which are level with station platforms, is meant to eliminate

A San Diego MTS passenger uses the new low-floor installations to access the trolley. The new project was intended to facilitate on and off trolley boarding.

the need for wheelchair lifts, therefore making boarding and exiting easier for all passengers.

San Diego State homeland security graduate student David Lucero has been riding the trolley to campus from his home near Palm Avenue for about six years. He said the switch to low-floor cars makes the trolley system more time-efficient.

“They’re a lot more effective in getting people on and off the trolley, especially the handicapped,” Lucero said. “It makes things go by a lot easier.”

He added the floor-level cars are also helpful for elderly passengers and people carrying cargo to and from the trolley.

In addition to the low-floor cars,

the project includes improvements for station platforms, shelters and signs.

MTS marketing coordinator Jamila Hillebrand said the company’s goal is to improve the trolleys by “not only improving their looks, but their service as well.” She said the time saved with the low-floor cars allows MTS to provide faster,

paige nelson , photo editor

smoother and more comfortable rides for passengers.

With renovation on the Green and Orange lines complete, the company will begin work on the Blue Line in April. Hillebrand said the final segment of the Trolley Renewal Project should be complete next year.

features | 3

Tuesday, january 22, 2013 | Volume 99, issue 57 travel & adventure from KICKER page 1

remarkable events in Earth’s history.

This event, known by scientists as the K-T extinction, is only the tip of the cosmic iceberg in regards to collisions on Earth’s surface and in outer space. We have long been fascinated with the origins of our home planet, as well as the natural workings of our galaxy. The Reuben H. Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park aims to share the most recent discoveries in astronomy with its latest exhibit, appropriately dubbed, “Great Balls of Fire: Comets, Meteors, Asteroids.”

The exhibit made its West Coast debut last Saturday. This 3,000-square-foot interactive attraction coincides with a new digital presentation, “Cosmic Collisions,” in the Heikoff Dome Theater.

Museumgoers are invited to test their knowledge of both terrestrial and extraterrestrial objects and learn the truth about the asteroids, meteors and comets orbiting the solar system.

I had the wonderful opportunity of attending a preview event of the exhibit and was pleasantly surprised by the scale of the

and scientists from around the world.

“It is a great way to open your mind to the expanses of the universe,” Events and Outreach Coordinator for the Save Our Heritage Organisation Ashley Christensen said. “This was really just a tease. It made me want to come back and see the full thing.”

The preview was a particularly exciting experience for me, in part because I hadn’t visited the science center in years. Upon entering the exhibit, I could feel childlike excitement and wonder spring to the surface once more.

There were so many things for my then-regressed mentality to take in and I found myself wandering back and forth trying to absorb it all. One thing that particularly stood out was the complementing show, “Cosmic Collisions.” I was aware of the expansive theater and its amazing shows, but seeing it in person was something else entirely.

As soon as I walked into the auditorium, I was in awe of its sheer size and grandeur.

The massive screen towered overhead, dwarfing me and my fellow attendees as we filed into our seats. I could already tell the show was going to be amazing.

The lights dimmed, the audience became quiet and the booming

It is a great way to open your mind to the expanses of the universe...This was really just a tease. It made me want to come back and see the full thing. ashley christensen

events & outreach coordinator, save our heritage organisation

attraction.

Several directors and local astronomers were onhand to answer questions and discuss details related to the science behind the presentation.

I asked University of California, San Diego Associate Research Scientist for the Center of Astrophysics and Space Sciences Dr. David Harker what he hopes visitors will take away from this experience. “(I would like to see) more of an appreciation and understanding of comets and why they’re an important subject to study,” Harker said.

Professor at Grossmont College and coordinator for San Diego’s Project ASTRO Philip Blanco encouraged students to learn more through on-campus astronomy courses.

The science center’s main exhibit is divided up into four areas of exploration.

The “Origins” section gives an introduction to the development of the solar system, as well as the formation of the Oort cloud and other known asteroid belts. The “Asteroids” portion delves into greater detail about the largest rocks in space. The “Comets” area relays the known information of these relatively unknown bodies. Visitors can learn about the possibilities of collision with interplanetary objects in the “Impacts and Risks” segment.

Each area features interactive multimedia ranging from static examples of space material to “Mission: Asteroid Encounter,” a virtual space travel simulation.

The entire exhibition is crammed with official data and recent findings from NASA, national museum astrophysicists

voice of narrator Robert Redford propelled us into outer space.

Thinking about astronomy has always made me feel small and seeing a vast representation of the infinite expanse of the universe was merely a reminder of how miniscule and arguably insignificant we are in the grand

scheme of things. As I watched with quiet astonishment, I could almost feel myself drifting through space and time. On several occasions I had to mentally remind myself to not gawk like an idiot with my jaw hanging open.

The 25-minute presentation took us through the formation of our planet and the moon, potential risks that asteroids and other cosmic materials currently pose and into the future with the inevitable “colliding” of the Milky Way and Andromeda galaxies. Real images taken from NASA satellites were fused with scientifically accurate visualizations to create an informative and spectacular visual show.

The “Great Balls of Fire” exhibit will run through April 28. The Reuben H. Fleet Science Center is just one of 42 museums partaking in the 24th annual Museum Month, organized by the San Diego Museum Council.

According to the council’s website, its effort is to “increase awareness of and attendance at the diverse museums in the region.” Throughout February, all participating museums will offer half-price admission. In order to use the discount, adventurers must obtain a free pass at any Macy’s in the San Diego area.

Passes are available starting Feb. 1. The pass, available while supplies last, is good for up to four people and is valid for the entire month of February. A list of all 42 museums can be found at sandiegomuseumcouncil.org.

There isn’t a better time to satiate your curiosity this year.

If you’re looking for something exciting to do on the weekends, or you’re new to the area and want to experience all San Diego has to offer, take a day or two to explore the museums. If the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center is any indicator, I promise it will be worth your while. Who knows?

You might even learn something.

As soon as I walked into the auditorium, I was in awe of its sheer size and grandeur. The massive screen towered overhead, dwarfing me and my fellow attendees...

caitlin johnson , staff writer

Jason Hammond, Education Manager for the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center, holds a “comet” made from commonly used materials such as dry ice and window cleaner.

caitlin johnson , staff writer

4 | features

Volume 99, issue 57 | Tuesday , january 22, 2013 love & relationships

Love Guru solves relationship conudrums The Love Guru Staff Columnist

Heartache at Hepner Hall: Hi, I’m a 25-year-old male from Hyderabad, India. I have a problem and want an expert’s advice on how to resolve it. My girl broke up with me. The reason: She feels I am cheating her, and she is angry because I shared personal things between us with my cousin in the past. I have tried to convince her it is in the past, and I have changed since then, but she won’t listen. After she broke up with me in 2011, I began flirting with someone else on Facebook. Last February, she came back to me and I accepted her back into my life.

Recently, however, she saw those old conversations on my Facebook and still thinks I’m flirting with her.

On top of that, my cousin and I had a chat on Yahoo Messenger where he said she doesn’t suit my family and some other nasty things. My girlfriend saw that conversation too. She said she doesn’t want me in her life anymore, and even blocked my number.

I’ve tried convincing her to come back both on the phone and in person, but she just keeps ignoring me. I don’t have much time. I barely have three months because her parents want her to be married

by April or May. She’s angry at me.

Please, help me get her back! Note: She is a very stubborn girl.

little chance at being healthy ones.

You shouldn’t have to waste time, effort and emotion on someone by chasing them and begging them to be with you. They should just want to be with you.

Always remember to keep your head up, friend. Love yourself and love will find you. That’s a promise.

Feline Fearer: I have been dating the same guy for a while, but I’m worried that I’m starting to stray.

Things have been getting a little stale and every guy I see is starting to look really good. I care for the guy I’m with (and I know he wants to be with me), but I can’t help but wonder if there isn’t something better out there. At the same time, I don’t want to abandon him and then realize there is no one better.

What should I do?

Sincerely, Doesn’t want to die alone with more cats than friends Love Guru: Firstly, I wouldn’t worry just yet about dying alone. The feelings of doubt are completely normal at this stage of your life. College is the time to lay the foundation for the rest of your life, so it’s good that you aren’t taking the idea of spending forever with someone lightly.

It may be time to venture elsewhere if your eyes are already wandering. It is better to break up with someone now than to divorce them later. That being said, you have to ask yourself if the possibility of someone better outweighs the potential of losing your current significant other.

THE LOVE GURU Love Guru: To put it lightly, the situation you’re in is an ugly one. You seem like a passionate guy, which is commendable. For your commendableness, I must honor you with a bit of the same from myself by enforcing the honesty policy.

This girl has clearly expressed how she does not trust you. In your defense, the fact that she is angry with you for flirting after your first breakup is unfair and outrageous. She has no right to judge what you did when you two weren’t even together. I can understand why she is upset about what your cousin said, but again, it’s unfair for her to take it out on you. You are a separate person from your cousin, and she needs to realize this. This woman seems to have a difficult time getting over misunderstandings from the past.

If she isn’t willing to talk with you and work things out in a mature manner, then maybe it’s best to move on. I know how hard this must be to hear, but I believe honesty is the best policy and I’m sticking to that. Sometimes, my friend, two people just aren’t meant to be together. A major key to healthy relationships is that the two people want to be together equally—From what you’ve told me about her reactions to your recent convincing attempts, this doesn’t seem to be the case.

But cheer up, because I like to think you deserve better than the way your heart has been thrown around by this girl. You shouldn’t have to constantly convince someone to love you.

Relationships need to be organic in the way they begin and develop.

Forced relationships have

TH

sports | 5

Tuesday, january 22, 2013 | Volume 99, issue 57

SDSU lets Cowboys run away with the win

men’s basketball

Matt Kenyon Staff Writer

Nine points. No, that is not what junior guard Jamaal Franklin scored. That is what the Aztecs scored in the first half.

After shooting 38 percent against The University of Nevada, Las Vegas on Wednesday, the Aztecs were once again plagued by poor shooting on Saturday in a 58-45 loss against Wyoming.

San Diego State and Wyoming both came into the game with 14 wins before the Cowboys snapped

their five-game losing streak against the Aztecs.

The Aztecs could not buy a basket in the first half, making only four field goals and one free throw on 16 percent shooting from the field. The Aztecs headed to the locker room trailing 20-9, their lowest scoring first half of the season.

Franklin led the Aztecs with 13points after a scoreless first half.

Freshman forward Winston Shepard scored 10 points in his second start for the Aztecs, replacing junior guard Xavier Thames who was unable to play because of a recurring back injury. Senior guard Chase Tapley also had 9 points.

The Aztecs finished the game shooting 28 percent from the field and only made two 3-pointers on 18 attempts. Their score of 45 points was the lowest of the season, even lower than their 49 points aboard the USS Midway in their season opener against Syracuse.

The long, athletic stature of the Aztecs didn’t help them in the open court and they were unable to convert any fast break points.

Aztec head coach Steve Fisher said the Aztecs were simply out played.

“We got outfought,” Fisher said.

“We didn’t make shots … but that’s going to happen. But when you get outfought and out-toughed and out-

efforted, that’s inexcusable. And it starts with me.”

Wyoming head coach Larry Shyatt, on the other hand, was very pleased with the effort his team displayed.

“I can’t say enough about how much I appreciate the effort this team gives, the way they share the ball and the defense they play,” Shyatt said.

The Cowboys, who also struggled in the first half on 8 of 25 shooting, made approximately 43 percent of their total shots from the field behind senior forward Leonard Washington’s 14 points and 14 rebounds. Senior guard

Derrious Gilmore also added 13 points.

The Cowboys were missing their second leading scorer, senior guard Luke Martinez, who according to the Casper Star-Tribune, was involved in a bar fight on Dec. 30 and had been suspended indefinitely.

The Aztecs travel to Reno on Wednesday for their second road game in a row to face off against the University of Nevada Wolf Pack.

SDSU

Wyoming

45 58 Lady Aztecs corral Cowgirls on the court

women’s basketball

Adriana Bush Assistant Sports Editor

The San Diego State women’s basketball team is now on a three-game winning streak after defeating the University of Wyoming 66-43 last Saturday.

In the first 30 seconds of the game, the Cowgirls scored the first points and were pushing for an early lead. However, senior center Malia Nahinu made a jump shot that quickly tied the game 2-2 and showed Wyoming the Aztecs were ready to battle.

From then on, the Cowgirls spent the entire first half trying to catch up to SDSU, but the Aztecs worked hard as a team to keep the lead.

From then on, the Cowgirls spent the entire first half trying to catch up to SDSU, but the Aztecs worked hard as a team to keep the lead. jenna mackey, staff photographer

Senior guard Courtney Clements races to the net while defending the ball against Wyoming sophomore guard Kaitlyn Mileto. Clements scored 18 points and had 6 rebounds during last Saturday’s game against the Cowgirls. The Aztecs are now 12-5 overall and 3-1 in the Mountain West.

“Every person did what they needed to do to guard what I think is the best offensive team in the league,” head coach Beth Burns said.

Senior guard Courtney Clements scored 9 points in the first half along with sophomore forward Erimma Amarikwa with 7, Nahinu with 6 and senior guard Chelsea Hopkins with 5 ponts.

SDSU outscored Wyoming 3023 and shot 44 percent from the field and 80 percent from the freethrow line.

Once the Aztecs returned to the court, they continued to build their lead and the Cowgirls struggled to keep up.

SDSU continued to attack and score until the final minutes.

Senior forward Gabrielle Clark shot the last 3-pointer of the game with four minutes left and senior guard Niki Novak ended the game with a jump shot that finalized SDSU’s 23-point lead.

SDSU had four players who hit double-digits. Clements led the team with 18 points, Hopkins followed with 14, Nahinu ended up with 12 and Amarikwa with 11 points. Hopkins, however, led the team with eight rebounds and eight assists.

The Aztecs made 26 points off of the Cowgirls, 17 turnovers and shot 44 percent from the field.

SDSU had a 37-30 rebounding advantage against Wyoming and made 10 of the 13 free throws attempted.

The game that started the Aztec’s winning streak took place last Monday against Colorado State University where SDSU traveled to beat the Rams 48-44. The Aztec defense held Colorado scoreless for the first 10 minutes of the game.

Continuing the streak last Wednesday, SDSU beat the University of Nevada, Las Vegas 74-60, where Hopkins hit tripledouble digits for the second time in her career.

SDSU’s team record is now 12-5, 3-1 in the Mountain West, which ties it with Fresno State.

Tomorrow night the Aztecs will look to continue their winning streak as they face off against the University of Nevada, Reno, at 7 p.m. at Viejas Arena.

“I think more than anything else this was just a game that we felt good about and learned from all the positive things,” Burns said.

“Then we’ll turn right back around and get ready for Nevada.”

SDSU

Wyoming

66 43

6 | opinion

Volume 99, issue 57 | Tuesday , january 22, 2013

Where do you stand in the gun control debate?

The Second Amendment’s right to bear arms needs to adapt to changing times. Civilians don’t need military-style weapons for personal protection.

Kenneth Leonard Senior Staff Columnist

T

he gun control debate rages on in U.S. In the wake of the tragic mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School, the discourse intensified substantially and it seems as though lawmakers may be prepared to create stricter gun control laws.

On the Jan. 7 episode of Piers Morgan’s TV program, radio host Alex Jones brought the debate to a crescendo when he pointed his finger in Morgan’s face and threatened, “I’m here to tell you, 1776 will commence again if you try to take our firearms.”

During the interview, Jones represented the pro-gun establishment perfectly. Throughout the conversations the same tired arguments came up again and again, providing examples of why the very essence of how our nation thinks about this debate needs to change.

Truthfully, the debate is not about guns at all. It is about personal rights and our Constitution. As the Second Amendment advocates clamor about constitutional rights, one begins to wonder if these staunch constitutionalists are aware the Constitution was designed so it could be amended to meet the needs of the people it protects. Consider the issues of slavery and women’s suffrage. The Constitution failed to provide certain rights to slaves and women, therefore it was altered. In fact, it was improved. The truth is, the Constitution is an inherently flawed document designed to be flexible and change with time.

I can hear the pro-gun Americans cry out, “but the founders were supportive of gun ownership.” Yes, I know. James Madison said, “A well-regulated militia, composed of the body of the people, trained in arms, is the best most natural defense of a free country.” This idea has been distorted and warped until truly idiotic, yet immensely popular people such as Jones go on television and say, “America was born on guns and whiskey. It’s true we’re a violent society.”

Herein lies the biggest problem with pro-gun arguments: Outspoken morons who don’t understand history are nostalgic for an era of wild gun-toting patriots which never existed, and attempt to use their skewed interpretation of 1776-era thinking to solve social problems in 2013.

Jones was partially correct about one thing during his heated diatribe on CNN. “The Second Amendment isn’t there for duck hunting,” Jones said early in the interview. “It’s there to protect us from tyrannical government and street thugs.”

The right to gun ownership is clearly intended as a deterrent to abuses of power from the government. It seems obvious the Founding Fathers intended the balance of power to remain in the hands of the people, a very noble idea, but men such as James Madison and Thomas Jefferson lived in an era when weaponry was downright primitive compared to what exists today. The founders were intelligent people, but they could not have foretold the existence of drones, cruise missiles and

stealth fighters. Face the music, folks. We are outgunned by the military and there is nothing any group of private citizens could do if it all boiled down to an “us vs. them” scenario. The very idea of private citizens contending with the military is ridiculous and all of the macho posturing among gun owners who swear to rise up against our allegedly tyrannical government with lunatics such as Jones is just comical.

Even though the idea of gun ownership as insurance against the government is absurd in 2013, many people feel very strongly about the need to own weapons for personal protection, which is understandable.

We certainly have a right to safety and self-defense and as far as I can tell there is not a single legislator who wants to take these rights away.

Sen. Dianne Feinstein has become a target for the pro-gun crowd, but when reading the legislation she proposed, it becomes apparent the senator is protective of citizens’ rights to obtain weapons for selfdefense and personal protection.

Feinstein’s proposal would ban 120 specific firearms, as well as specific semiautomatic rifles, handguns and shotguns with “one or more military characteristics” and semiautomatic rifles and handguns with high-capacity magazines. If this is unreasonable to you, I have to ask, what kind of assault you are expecting to defend yourself from?

Are weapons such as the Bushmaster .223, used by Adam Lanza to gun down nearly 30 people, necessary or safe for private sale? Remember, the weapons used in the Sandy Hook shooting were legally obtained and owned by Lanza’s mother.

Incidentally, Lanza’s mother was his first victim, so apparently those weapons didn’t serve much of a defensive purpose after all.

When questioned about militarystyle weapons being available for private citizens, retired Gen. Stanley McChrystal said the M-4 Carbine he carried while in the military used a .223 caliber round, which was designed to cause “devastating” damage to a human body.

“It’s designed to do that, and that’s what our soldiers ought to carry,” McChrystal said on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe” on Jan. 8.

“I personally don’t think there’s any need for that kind of weaponry on the streets and particularly around the schools in America.”

It’s time for a new dialogue regarding guns in this country. Selfinterested parties need to shelve their ideologies and focus on policies that will promote the most beneficial results for our society. At least 62 mass shootings have taken place in the U.S. since 1982 and most of the weapons used in the shootings were purchased legally. Something is wrong with how our country does business when it comes to both the sale of firearms and romanticizing gun violence. Total removal of guns is not the answer, but neither is flooding the market with assault weapons. However, the most insidious problem of all has nothing to do with the guns. The biggest problem is a lack of meaningful discussion on this sensitive and overly politicized topic.

Gun control leaves law-abiding citizens defenseless against armed criminals. Previous assault weapons bans have done nothing to prevent crime.

Matthew Smith Staff Columnist

G

un control has been thrust into the spotlight in the wake of last month’s massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School. Since then, President Barack Obama signed several executive orders and has requested action from Congress, such as the reenactment of the 1994 Assault Weapons Ban, limiting the amount of bullets a magazine can carry and funding further research on gun violence.

The anger and shock this tragic event caused is understandable.

However, it should not be used to push gun control policies that are ineffective and infringe on our Second Amendment rights.

The fact is, we don’t need gun control to curb gun violence.

Violent crime in the U.S. has been declining during the last 20 years. In 2011, the murder rate in the U.S. was 4.7 per 100,000 people, the lowest since 1963. In fact, the decline started before the Assault Weapons Ban was enacted in 1994 and continued after it expired. The homicide rate reached a peak of 9.8 in 1991, and declined to 9 by the time the law was enacted. It fell to 5.5 when the law expired in 2004, and declined in 2008 to 5.4. Before the Assault Weapons Ban was applied, so-called assault weapons accounted for less than 6 percent of all gun crimes nationally.

The decline has continued on a local level in states and cities with lax gun control laws or where previous gun control restrictions have been voided.

The homicide rate in Texas, which already has some of the most lenient gun laws in the country, declined from 6.1 to 4.4 since the Assault Weapons Ban expired. In 2008 the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Washington D.C.’s ban on handguns inside the city. At the time, there was a lot of moaning from anti-gun advocates who claimed D.C.’s already high crime rate would soar after the Supreme Court decision. However, the decision had the opposite affect and D.C.’s murder rate has been cut nearly in half, from 31.5 to 17.5, its lowest level since 1966.

Stricter gun control laws are not going to stop tragic shootings, such as Sandy Hook. Mass shootings, such as Columbine and Santana high school, both happened while the Assault Weapons Ban was the law of the land. As shocking as these events are, they represent a minority of the overall gun violence that takes place. A much larger portion of gun violence comes from gang and drug wars, which have decreased dramatically because of more efficient measures taken by local governments and police departments to tackle gang violence.

Strict gun control laws in other countries such as Mexico have done little to curb gun violence, which increased to a rate of 15.6 murders per 100,000 last year.

The increase is a result of the breakout of the drug wars, where cartels have still managed to get their hands on weapons, such as AK-47s despite Mexican gun control laws.

If there’s anything we can learn from Mexico’s ineffective gun control laws, it’s how gun control does nothing to keep weapons out of the hands of lawbreakers.

Gun control isn’t going to magically force lawbreakers to give their weapons up. How are gun laws supposed to work anyways? If a specific weapon, for example a shotgun, is banned, are we then supposed to force people who have legally bought shotguns before to give them up?

Such a tactic would amount to theft.

Instead, gun control restricts gun ownership by law-abiding citizens. When you take guns away from people who obey the law, they’re left defenseless when someone breaks into their home and attacks them. Furthermore, most gun owners have never used

Some proposals, such as background checks, make sense but we shouldn’t restrict gun access for the people who pass such checks. a gun against another human being. Guns are popular for outdoor sports, such as hunting or simply to collect. Why should the rights of law-abiding citizens, which are protected by the Second Amendment, be sacrificed for a small percentage of people who don’t obey laws anyways and won’t have any intention of following gun control laws?

We do need to do more to fight gun violence and crime. Some proposals, such as background checks, make sense but we shouldn’t restrict gun access for the people who pass such checks.

Instead, we should enforce the laws we already have and use the strategies which have been proven to curb violent crime.

Local police departments have switched from hard-line tactics, such as a militaristic patrol of gang controlled neighborhoods to using tip lines and building relationships with local residents, which have proven effective.

Programs aimed at educating children and teens about the dangers of gang violence have also proven effective.

School violence needs to be treated the same way. Antibullying programs will do a lot to stop school violence. People don’t kill just because they have access to guns. There are underlying causes, such as poverty, unemployment, poor mental health and unfair treatment by others. Tackling these issues will do a lot more to tackle gun violence in schools and on the streets than infringing on a person’s right to bear arms.

opinion | 7

Tuesday, january 22, 2013 | Volume 99, issue 57

If another study is going to help people sleep better at night, then I’m all for it. What we seem to be missing is the reason for these studies. Instead of trying to find a correlation, we need to search for a cause. There is an underlying trend among the recent tragedies and it isn’t a few emotionally unstable people picking up a controller.

Video games have carried the stigma of being the root of negative emotional reactions for years. Those who don’t play fear what they don’t understand. I will be the first to admit that yes, playing games can cause anxiety and frustration. Anyone who has ever played a platformer or a fighting game where another player shamelessly cheats can attest to this. However, games can also inspire beauty and enthusiasm.

Like a good movie, video games can amplify emotions. I’m an emotional person. Poignant scenes in games make me cry.

I can understand how a person with deep-seated psychological issues and violent tendencies could potentially react aggressively to such stimuli. The key here is most of us don’t have such disorders. We are able to control our emotions, and as a result can maintain a normal lifestyle. Even the faintest notion of curbing such materials—which isn’t limited to video games—is an unnecessary punishment for all of us. Yet often the majority must suffer because of the acts of the few.

The problem is the media. The moment I saw the first news clip

of the shooting in Connecticut, I was angered. Not because of the incident itself—which is an entirely different level of outrage and sheer devastation—but because of the media. I knew this would be another feast for those vultures, another car wreck they can’t drive by without staring at. I’m sure you’re thinking, “Some journalist, she doesn’t even realize she is one of them.” But this is where you are wrong, because I do realize it. I realize it and I’m ashamed.

As journalists, it is our responsibility to reveal the truth.

Everything else is just fluff; padding to a story. Once it began circulating how the game “Call of Duty” was found in Adam Lanza’s room, I knew the fight against such media was renewed once again.

I have argued this point before, but it needs to be argued again. The reason so many kids are exposed to aggressive media is because they are allowed to. Certainly not by the retailers—the Entertainment Software Rating Board makes sure of this—but by the parents. During the time I worked at GameStop in 2006, I cannot tell you how many parents didn’t give two licks about the “mature” game they were buying for their 8-year-old, despite the time I took to tell them of its content. They just didn’t care. They still don’t. And here is where the true problem lies.

I feel as if I’m beating a dead horse, so to speak. For years, we as a community have dissected this issue, and we still have yet to reach a conclusion. Labeling video games as a catalyst for violent behavior is only going to divert us from real problems.

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Avoid emotion in gun debate gun control

Hutton Marshall Managing Editor

T

he Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting took the lives of 27 people, including 20 elementary school children. There’s no way I could begin to imagine the pain the parents of those children felt; heartbreaking doesn’t even skim the surface.

It’s impossible not to feel a gut reaction when you hear of something like this. I want revenge for those children, but the coward responsible took his own life before that could happen. However, it seems those in higher offices have found other ways for us to channel our anger.

On Dec. 17, just three days after the shooting, a press release was posted on Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s (D-Calif.) website announcing her intent to submit an updated version of the Assault Weapons Ban she passed in 1994, which expired in 2004.

This bill would ban the sale of “more than 100 specificallynamed firearms” and would stop the sale of highcapacity magazines.

“I have been working with my staff for over a year on this legislation,” Feinstein added. “It will be carefully focused on the most dangerous guns that have killed so many people over the

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from VIDEO GAMES page 1

years while protecting the rights of gun owners by exempting hundreds of weapons that fall outside the bill’s scope. We must take these dangerous weapons of war off our streets.”

I’m not here to take sides on gun control; what irks me is that Feinstein was directly quoted in the article saying she and her staff have been working on this particular piece of legislation for more than a year.

To me, this says that this bill has been, for whatever reason, sitting on her desk, and here comes the opportune time for it to be publicized: a tragic, mass murder at an elementary school.

It seems she was just biding her time.

I’m not harping on Feinstein for politicizing a tragedy. I’m upset she so blatantly pounced on an opportunity to capitalize on it.

Think back to the months following 9/11—another monumental tragedy, which took the lives of thousands, was also used to push a political agenda.

The USA Patriot Act was passed a mere 45 days after Sept. 11, 2001 (Fun fact: Feinstein was the Act’s democratic coauthor).

The effects on our lives today from this decision, which took all of 45 days to decide, are more than just ripples. In fact, President Barack Obama signed a four-year extension on three key provisions of the Patriot Act in 2011.

If the Patriot Act had never existed, do you think a bill proposing the three provisions renewed by Obama in 2011 would have a chance of passing in today’s legislature? Would this bill have a chance of becoming a law at any other time other than in the months following 9/11? No way, we would have dismissed the Patriot Act as something straight out of “1984”—a clear violation of our privacy.

We need to stop letting these horrific tragedies control the way our politicians influence policy so dramatically. We can’t afford to keep making reactionary decisions. People aren’t going out on a daily basis and shooting up elementary schools. Gun control isn’t something that requires rushed legislation. So why treat it that way? If anything, it requires a calm, pragmatic debate.

Regardless of the debate’s outcome, it is a grave mistake to so quickly make sweeping policy decisions, such as the ones Obama suggested last week when he proposed what was possibly the most fervent gun control legislation in decades.

Just as his predecessor, President George W. Bush, did in his first term, Obama and Feinstein are capitalizing on tragic events to push legislation that would otherwise be dismissed as too extreme.

8 | BACKPAGE

Volume 99, issue 57 | TUESday, january 22, 2013

Tears in the Rain fiction

Max Saucedo Staff Writer

Deputy Jasper Collins was waiting with the sheriff and other deputies outside a house.

“Who’re we waiting for,” he asked them. A young AfricanAmerican man emerged from a black Camry.

“Sheriff Cole, let me introduce myself. My name is John Barnes.

I’ll brief you and your deputies on the situation,” Barnes said, pulling out a sheet of paper. “I represent the St. Louis Division of Children Services and Welfare, originally assigned to investigate a case of unfit parenting. Reports indicated that the single mother Dominique de Sevigne has been unable to sufficiently provide for her two children. With two incidences already reported, we felt it was time to in-

a mile. He could feel raindrops falling on his arms, thousands of pricks on him just as thousands of eyes watched him now.

He had reached the door. He knocked and began, “Mrs. Sevigne, this is Deputy Collins of the St. Louis Sheriff’s Department.

Will you please open the ...”

He stopped as a door opened. In the doorway stood a young, African-American woman, who appeared to be on the verge of tears.

“You here to take my children away?”

Collins was mute, the shame of it crippling him.

“It’s OK; I know it’s not your fault.

You’re just doing what they tell you. I didn’t tell them yet. Can I walk them to the car at least?” she pleaded. She pulled two kids from behind her, a small boy and girl. They all began walking back to Barnes’s open car door, with Collins bringing up the rear.

Given the sensitive nature of what’s about to happen, my superiors and the mayor both agreed it would be best if this could be handled as quickly and quietly as possible.

Hopefully we can avoid any altercations, tercede. A court order was issued stating her children were to be taken into state custody. We came last week, but she refused to let us in, and so we’ve returned with you to enforce the court order.” He finished by handing the writ to Cole.

A small crowd had stopped on the sidewalk, looking at the police cruisers and deputies. Here, Barnes lowered his voice. “Now the more important part. Given the sensitive nature of what’s about to happen, my superiors and the mayor both agreed it would be best if this could be handled as quickly and quietly as possible.

Hopefully we can avoid any altercations,” he said as he nervously looked around.

Cole nodded and took the papers, instructing Farell to quietly call in backup, “Just in case.” He handed Collins the paper and told him to deliver the news. Collins, still trying to process what Barnes had requested, took it and began walking to the door. He glanced down at his own skin, a dark shade of brown. He had always been aware of the color of his skin, but never had it been used so offensively by others. The few yards from the sidewalk to the door turned into

The rain was starting to pick up now. The crowd began yelling at the deputies and Barnes.

“Hey man, what’s wrong with you? How can you do this to her!”

What happened next happened in what seemed like an instant to Collins. Dominique, openly crying, had to lift her children into Barnes’s arms over a puddle of water. The crowd began moving closer, becoming more hostile. The rain was pouring now. Then more police cruisers pulled up with their sirens blaring, and blocked off the street. Officers poured out, some in riot gear, distracting the crowd from the scene.

Barnes had already lifted the girl into his car. Then the young boy began screaming.

“No Mommy, don’t let them take me!”

In his haste, Barnes pulled him away from Dominique, causing her to fall into the puddle. The crowd, hearing the screams and turning around to witness one of their own, humiliated and stripped of her children, exploded. Cole, sensing the enormity of the situation, grabbed Barnes and threw him into his car commanding him to, “Drive!” Barnes pulled away.

Chaos exploded. The mob had now descended on the police, throwing bottles and grabbing 2-by-4s. Collins knew he should get out, but he saw Dominique lying in the street, still sobbing.

“She’ll be trampled to death,” he thought.

He grabbed her hand and, looking in her eyes, saw what he would never forget again—a look of sorrow and guilt. Dominique’s face was imprinted into his mind. It was also the last thing he remembered before someone clubbed him from behind.

He awoke to Barnes shaking him in his hospital bed. “Glad to see you’re awake now, buddy.”

Collins tried to sit up, before Barnes handed him a cup of water.

“Dominique … Where is she,” Collins coughed.

Barnes shook his head.

“Jasper you’ve been unconscious for two days. Lot of people are hurt, lot are missing.

Some dead. I tried going back and looking for her, but the city is in lockdown right now with the rioting. Her place was ransacked and she’s not answering her phone. I’m going to keep looking, but …” he trailed off.

Sitting up and feeling sore, Jasper asked, “What about you, John?”

“Well, let’s just say I won’t be getting any promotions anytime soon for this. Thankfully I still have a job though. There is one situation, however. We need a temporary guardian for the children. No father, but Dominique was a Haitian national. The kids are in danger of being deported there with no one to look after them. I need more time to try and find her sister, who could possibly take care of the children then, but I don’t have room. I was wondering …”

Collins looked up. He felt the throbbing of his skull, the taste of his own blood and his bruised body.

“Bones will heal and be forgotten,” he thought. “But what I won’t allow to be forgotten is that look on her face, the last thing I remember. It won’t be like tears in the rain.”

“I will,” he said.

Barnes smiled and the two men shook hands.

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HOROSCOPE

by Nancy Black, Tribune Media Services

Today’s Birthday (1/22/13) - It’s getting romantic. The first half of 2013 holds creativity, fun and cultural exploration. Your communication skills are on fire, so light up your social life. Career blazes after June.

Provide excellent service, and your fortunes rise. Increase skills to keep pace. Waltz with changes.

To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.

Aries (March 21 - April 19) - Today is a 7 You’re exceptionally intelligent now. Put your mind to good use. Surround yourself with people who you respect and respect you and find new solutions to old problems.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20) - Today is a 5 - There’s plenty to go around; relax and enjoy it. Others need you. Provide leadership, and allow others to lead you, too. You’re surrounded by loving friends. Show them your appreciation.

Gemini (May 21 - June 21) - Today is a 9 - Savor sweet moments and share them with a loved one. Your generosity is commendable.

Don’t let your bright future blind you. Find support in your community, and return the favor.

Cancer (June 22 - July 22) - Today is a 5 - Optimism is appropriate now. Pick up the pieces and make something new. Call on your intuitive talent, and accept guidance. You’re surrounded by love.

Leo (July 23 - Aug. 22) - Today is a 9 - Beauty surrounds you. Pay attention to the surrounding syncopation to discover something new. Intuition finds an opportunity.

Allow yourself to get luxurious, but family comes first.

Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) - Today is an 8 - Take time to praise, admire and thank someone who’s made a difference. A small risk now pays off. Negotiate from the heart.

Relax to avoid a temper tantrum.

Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) - Today is an 8 You have more than enough and keep earning more. Read and take the time to let thoughts sink in. Stock up. Share the luck and the love.

Confer with family.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) - Today is a 7 Investigate previously impossible possibilities, and use your charm and wit to make them possible. Listen for ideas out of the blue, from those around you, and revise your plans.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) - Today is a 9 - What you lack in funds you can compensate with creativity and self-confidence. Look around; you are well blessed. Love drops a happy surprise in your lap.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) - Today is an 8 - You don’t quite know how brilliant you are, but you could find out. Go for what you believe in. Discover new friendships and projects to get involved in. Dive in.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) - Today is a 7 - A breakthrough moment is here. Expand your ideas to reach a larger audience. Use what you’ve gained to build structure. Income fluctuates, so think twice before making a purchase.

Pisces (Feb. 19 - March 20) - Today is a 9 - Toss the ball to a teammate. Relieve the pressure and make room for a fabulous opportunity. Reinvigorate your team and think outside the box. You’ve got a buzz going. ©2013, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC.

SUDOKU

by The Mepham Group, Tribune Media Services

Difficulty Level: 2 out of 4 Instructions: Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit 1 to 9.

Solutions available online at www.thedailyaztec.com ©2013, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC.

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CROSSWORD Across 1 Manila envelope feature 6 Baseball SS’s stats 9 Web money 14 Old Turkish bigwig 15 Dwarf with glasses 16 2009 Panasonic acquisition 17 “Something to Talk About” singer Bonnie 18 *Coffee drinker’s complaint 20 Poet’s before 22 Contest for lumberjacks 23 Nova __ 26 *Direct path 30 *Rowboat attachments 33 Key of Mozart’s Requiem Mass 34 Juneau-to-Ketchikan dir.

35 Some sorority women 37 D.C. baseball team 38 Frittata base 40 Convent dweller 41 Painted Desert formation 42 Controversial apple spray 43 Mexican state bordering Arizona 45 “Reading Rainbow” network 47 Country with six time zones 49 *Flaw in a fence 51 *Quarter 53 Kitchen gadget 54 Volleyball venue 56 Street shader 57 *”The Golden Girls” co-star 61 Crème de la crème 65 Big name in bars 66 “Do __ favor ...”

67 Lucky roll, usually 68 Teacher’s group 69 Like a single shoe 70 Flair Down 1 EMT’s skill 2 Anaheim team, on scoreboards 3 “Take me __ am” 4 “Fiddler on the Roof” village 5 Hale and Revere, notably

by Rich Norris & Joyce Lewis, Tribune Media Services

Solutions available online at www.thedailyaztec.com 6 EPA-banned pesticide 7 Not up to snuff 8 Shaggy’s dog, to Shaggy 9 Regard 10 “Sweet” woman in a Neil Diamond title 11 Yucatán year 12 Thesaurus entry: Abbr.

13 Sty dweller 19 Winter transports 21 Individually 23 Urgent call at sea 24 Source of legal precedents 25 Tomato sauce herb 27 Up the creek 28 Distinguished 29 Stalling-for-time syllables 31 Numbers game with 80 balls 32 Was so not worth seeing, as a movie 36 Like many quotes: Abbr.

39 Safety rods in shower stalls 41 Without a partner 42 Comic’s routine 43 Occupied, as a desk 44 Harry Potter costume 46 Sun. delivery 48 Country music star __ Bentley 50 Speaker of the first syllables of the answers to starred clues 52 Chowderhead 55 Shaded 57 Secretly keep in the email loop, briefly 58 Pipe bend 59 Battery type 60 “Far out!”

62 Columbia, for one 63 Bus. card letters 64 Acetyl ending