Admirable art galleries worthy of a visit

In the past, columnists have often berated readers for neglecting the vibrant theater scene in the East Lansing area.

MIDDAY UPDATE: Study shows state's high unemployment rate

The national job outlook for this year's graduating seniors is the best it's been in four years, according to an MSU study. But analysts said they are concerned because Michigan has one of the highest unemployment rates in the nation, while the rest of the country enjoys an upswing in the economic environment. With Michigan's unemployment rate at 7.3 percent in December, tied with Alaska for the highest rate of the 50 states, some job hunters might have to search beyond the boarders of the Great Lakes. "Michigan has done worse even as the nation has done better," said Patrick Anderson, principal of East Lansing's Anderson Economic Group.

Coral Gables big on food, rich with historical past

The Mackinac Bridge. The Fox Theatre. The state Capitol. Coral Gables. Pick the one that doesn't belong. All of them have been in Michigan for years, and all of them are a part of history.

Say hello to hollywood

A white, filmy smoke drifts onto stage as the music's volume gently rises. Suddenly, bright purple and red lights explode like solar flares, rising from the ground to the ceiling, scanning the audience. The music builds, the lights dance, and in a burst of energy, performers rocket into the spotlight. In a whirlwind of dance and rock 'n' roll, the Broadway tour of "Movin' Out" - a Twyla Tharp creation based on Billy Joel songs - has taken East Lansing by storm. "It's very, very popular," Wharton Center spokesman Bob Hoffman said.

Popular brands poll reveals changing attitudes in world commerce

You probably picked the shirt on your back right now for a reason. The same goes for the shoes that carried you to this newspaper.

Overlapping layers

You know the phrase, "Keep it simple, stupid?" Whoever invented that phrase should be thrown off the top of Hubbard Hall and fall face flat on the icy concrete below.

Bush's Iraq efforts have been valuable

Jack Fischer, if voting for George W. Bush makes me an idiot ("Bush not deserving of writer's praise" SN 1/31), then I am a very proud idiot right now.

Take it indoors

It's a Saturday afternoon during football season, you've had a couple of drinks and game time is approaching.

Officials propose to lessen on-campus urination laws

University officials are aiming to reduce the punishment for urinating in public by proposing an ordinance that bans it. A current state law makes the act a disorderly conduct offense.

Police briefs 02/02/05

Staton to keep E.L. position

East Lansing City Manager Ted Staton will remain in the city's top position after not being offered a prominent position overseeing cities statewide. Staton was one of three finalists for the executive director's position of the Michigan Municipal League. "This means we get to retain a person who has helped to bring the city where it is today," said Deputy City Manager Jean Golden.

Peace Corps worth giving thought to

It's late, 3 a.m. almost. I am not up studying for an exam or coming home from a night at Rick's American Café. Nope, I am sitting in my room trying to stay warm.

Economic writer to lecture on diversity

Nationally known economic writer Julianne Malveaux, whose work appears regularly in USA Today, will deliver a public lecture on issues such as race, culture and their economic impacts at 7 p.m.

MIDDAY UPDATE: Drug inquiry removed from FAFSA application

Students who apply for future financial aid might notice something missing from the application. A congressionally appointed committee recommended the removal of a question about whether an applicant has had a previous drug conviction from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, FAFSA, last week. "The drug question is irrelevant - it is not something that should even be taken into account," said Tom Angell, communications director for Students for Sensible Drug Policy.

Falling short

An unruly Izzone student section and several late runs by MSU weren't enough to stop No. 1 Illinois and its talented trio of guards. Fighting Illini guards Luther Head, Deron Williams and Dee Brown combined for 54 points, each finding ways to dash any hopes of an MSU comeback.

Derogatory words used far too often

I'd like to applaud and reinforce the points of Holly Newland's opinion letter ("Students need to think about words" SN 1/27) on the absurdity of the liberal use of the word "faggot" at MSU. As an individual who has lived on campus for almost two years, I encounter the use of this word on a daily basis in the halls of the dormitories and in the cafeteria.

Wicked stink from dorm dwellers is out of line

Disclaimer: This column should not be read while eating. Enjoy. It's something we all do - and I'm not talking about engaging in sexual activities. Depending on what you eat for breakfast, lunch or dinner, you might do it more than once a day. If you are like some I know, you might be obsessed with doing it in the same place and time everyday.

No. 12 MSU stunned by 'incredible' Illinois play

MSU senior swingman Alan Anderson summed up the Fighting Illini's shooting performance in one word: "Incredible." As was the case in losses to Duke and Wisconsin, three-point field goal defense was an issue for No.

'Next big thing' EP mediocre, full of pop

Missy Higgins. Missy Higgins. Missy Higgins. Sorry - just trying to acclimate you to the name you'll be hearing over and over in the coming months. The Australian singer/songwriter, already a smash hit in her native country, has decided to try her luck here in the ol' U.S.

Parking on campus should be changed

On Tuesday, I went to attend my 10:20 a.m. finance class. I left my house 15 minutes before class started, and knew this would leave me enough time to walk into the room, find a seat and begin to take notes.