By Tribune-Review

Published: Monday, December 31, 2012, 9:01 p.m.
Updated: Tuesday, February 19, 2013

The tragedy in Newtown, Conn., has touched the hearts of the world. The discussion begins again on what is wrong with our culture and why this happens. There are many opinions, but no rational explanations.

But one thing we need to do is discuss our gun laws. Shouldn't we discuss why the average Joe needs to own assault weapons? Why is the National Rifle Association so silent on this issue? Doesn't the NRA agree that the only weapons one needs in his or her home are hunting rifles and shotguns and a simple handgun?

The NRA has exploited the fear of gun control since President Obama was elected in 2008. The NRA gets a great deal of money from gun manufacturers, which explains its stance. It hides behind the Second Amendment and creates a fear frenzy among its members. I hold the NRA somewhat responsible for the culture of gun violence in America because it will not permit reasonable discussion of effective gun control.

I understand why members of Congress won't discuss gun laws: If they talk about gun control, they will lose their election. We, the voters, are responsible for permitting this to happen, because we reward the NRA by defeating all gun-control supporters.

I hold the Fox media empire responsible for our fearful culture. It promotes extreme right-wing propaganda, feeds on paranoia and plants the seed of fear among its viewers.

America, we're better than this. We, as a nation, need to say enough is enough. It's time for intelligent and calm discussion on these issues haunting our wonderful country.

If not now, when?

Mary Calvanese

New Kensington

1. What am I paying for?
2. Distorting or ill-informed
3. Enviro leftist tactics
4. Sadly missed, fondly remembered
5. Unfair to Corbett
6. Sacrament, not style
7. Rights: For people, not fetuses

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