Saturday, September 21, 2024

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Commentary

COMMENTARY

Warning to death

It’s been more than eight months since the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, but the threat of terrorism is not over. We were reminded of that recently in East Lansing, generally considered an unlikely place for terrorists to strike.

COMMENTARY

Deep problems

A charge of racism is an accusation that cannot be taken lightly. But steps also should be taken to verify such claims and give the accused a chance to respond. Former Lansing official Genice Rhodes-Reed stood at a public meeting this week to accuse Mayor David Hollister’s administration of subtle racism.

COMMENTARY

Township residents need vote on annex

I am writing in response to the article “Students’ motives doubted,” (SN 6/17). I first must say that regardless of whether the city helped out the students, or as some are saying, “asked them to start the process” of annexation, it is a raw deal and should not be allowed in the first place.

COMMENTARY

Cigarette tax hike unfair for smokers

I’d like to comment on the state Legislature’s consideration of an additional 30-cent per pack cigarette tax hike. When will our elected officials stop placing the burden of state tax revenues on the most economically disadvantaged segment of our population?

COMMENTARY

No permission

It’s time the Legislature fixes a problem that’s been making neighbors into enemies for years.

COMMENTARY

Affirmative action insight comes after looking at options, seeing for oneself

Before coming to the United States to study at MSU almost three years ago, I had never even heard of affirmative action, let alone possessed an opinion on the matter. That sort of scenario doesn’t last long with people who are as opinionated as I am. Affirmative action was present, and still is, everywhere - in the media, lecture halls and casual conversation in the cafeteria.

COMMENTARY

Unhealthy motive

Tax increases are certainly not unheard of to help balance the budget during tough economic times. But lawmakers always should take an honest approach to the process. As state lawmakers look for ways to resolve budget problems, it appears they are faced with either $150 million in cuts or a 30-cent tax increase on cigarettes.

COMMENTARY

Work paid for when paperwork all done

In response to Ebony Williams’ letter, “Work performed should receive pay” (SN 6/17), I am the supervisor to whom she refers, and would like to mention some imperative information that she left out of her letter.

COMMENTARY

Work performed should receive pay

When I got hired to work in the parking booth for the summer, I was ecstatic. I thought to myself, “What a gravy job.” It’s not too often you find a job where you can study, enjoy the sun and do pretty much nothing for a tiny bit of cash.

COMMENTARY

Lousy examples

It’s starting to become a bit of a cliché. Last week, another student government organization met to vote on an important issue, but couldn’t gather enough members to actually hold the meeting. The Council of Graduate Students had planned to approve its budget Wednesday, but the assembly was one member short of quorum - the minimum number of representatives required to be present to vote on issues.

COMMENTARY

Late legislation

This weekend’s Michigan Pride festival and rally in downtown Lansing served as a reminder of state lawmakers’ apparent lack of concern about discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

COMMENTARY

Betting budget

A bill passed by the state Senate that would leave only $33 million remaining in Michigan’s “rainy day” fund is, at best, a quick solution that will keep the budget stabilized while the economy climbs to higher levels. At worst, it could be a disastrous decision that will mean tremendous hardships ahead. The legislation passed 37-0 in the Senate and has been sent to the House.

COMMENTARY

Recruitment plans

MSU officials believe lesbian, bisexual, gay and transgender students are attracted to the university because of its open community and a welcoming atmosphere that allows for diversity in all varieties.