Saturday, December 13, 2025

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Commentary

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.

COMMENTARY

Actions of few taint university name

Recently, violent acts have plagued the front page of The State News, gaining the attention of the East Lansing community, and, in some cases, international attention. There is no doubt that crime likely will happen on any college campus, but the severity of these crimes being committed by MSU students is tainting how the university is viewed across the world.

COMMENTARY

Positives found in professor’s ordeal

By now, everyone has heard the sensationalized story of the MSU professor who had a nervous breakdown in class this week. Pictures have been circulated, comments made and stories written. If you have started reading this one, I sincerely hope you read it all the way to the end. I won’t keep you long.

COMMENTARY

MSU campus should be smoke-free

I am writing in support of your recent editorial titled “MSU should consider smoke-free campus.” As a freshman living on campus, I agree that secondhand smoke is a problem that should be addressed. As a runner, I am concerned about keeping fit and healthy, and do not wish to be exposed to the problems and diseases caused by secondhand smoke exposure.

COMMENTARY

Mental health issues require sensitivity

On Monday, MSU professor John McCarthy suffered from what apparently was a nervous breakdown, stripping off his clothes and shouting at students until MSU police escorted him from the Engineering Building to hospital care.