Friday, December 20, 2024

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Commentary

COMMENTARY

Flexible housing needs closer look

Last March, I celebrated the passing of MSU’s flexible housing program with a heavy heart. Although I believe that a gender-neutral housing program absolutely is necessary at our campus for the protection of its students, I could not deny my apprehension.

COMMENTARY

Removal of parking lots major hassle

There are many things students enjoy about MSU’s campus, but most agree parking is not one of them. For commuters and visitors, parking can be a horrendous ordeal. Lots fill up quickly and cost too much money, leaving many students frustrated with MSU’s lack of spots available on campus.

COMMENTARY

No shortcuts on road to success

Editor’s Note: Views expressed in guest columns and letters to the editor reflect the views of the author, not the views of The State News. _Jameson Joyce is a guest columnist at The State News and a James Madison sophomore.

COMMENTARY

‘Gap year’ becoming more popular in U.S.

It almost is assumed now in American culture that after a student graduates from high school, the next step immediately is to attend a university for a two-year or four-year program and obtain a degree. But instead of heading directly to school, these days, many students are choosing to take a year off.

COMMENTARY

‘Take Steps’ walk inspires, unites

I’m walking on the sidewalk along the Red Cedar River, trying to decide whether or not to pull on my winter hat. It’s Saturday, two days after “the last day of good weather,” which people had been observing morosely to me all week.

COMMENTARY

Registered voters now must cast ballot

Voting is an integral part of the democratic process. A democratic republic cannot function properly without the participation of its people, and those who are able should exercise their right to vote this November and in every election held in their districts.

COMMENTARY

Don’t let others sway your vote

The upcoming presidential election has become a narrower race since Mitt Romney’s performance in the Oct. 3 debate. President Obama has acknowledged the importance of a strong showing in the second debate, having taken a few days out of the spotlight recently in order to properly prepare for the next duel with Romney on Tuesday in Hempstead, N.Y.

COMMENTARY

Debate keeps Romney alive in election

Republican hopeful Mitt Romney’s campaign was considered to be killed before election day came. A few weeks ago, polls were showing Romney losing to President Barack Obama in key swing states. Plus, Romney’s gaffes, such as the now-infamous “47 percent” comments, substantially hurt his likeability among potential voters.

COMMENTARY

Firework ordinance must gain attention

The sale and use of aerial fireworks recently has been legalized in the state of Michigan, leaving some cities celebrating, and others worried about the safety of their residents. But in East Lansing, a recent city ordinance now is defining when and where residents can use fireworks, if at all.

COMMENTARY

Passivism not worthy of reward

On a recent early Saturday afternoon, my friends and I were leaving our apartment complex to fulfill our appetites with some traditional Hispanic cuisine when suddenly, a man on a bicycle halted in front of us.

COMMENTARY

Growing up in rival territory

The city of Ann Arbor is simply hated by most Spartans because of the passionate rivalry between MSU and the University of Michigan. However, Ann Arbor also is known as home for this Spartan, which has created a unique transition into college for me.

COMMENTARY

Grand River Avenue upgrade necessary evil

Construction is very familiar to students and faculty at MSU. Recently, on almost every corner of campus, streets are being upgraded, residence halls are being renovated and new construction projects are being planned or executed for the benefit of those who utilize campus resources frequently.