Move may enhance area life sciences

MSU's College of Human Medicine could be a significant addition to Grand Rapids' growing life sciences industry, leaders in the west Michigan city say. Spurred by a statewide push to build up the life sciences and the creation of the Van Andel Research Institute, the city has worked to create one of Michigan's largest life science clusters. "There has been a lot of commercial business opportunity in the life science industry, and there is a real wealth of life science work that is taking place," said Matt Dugener, executive director of West Michigan Science and Technology Initiative. The creation of the SmartZone program, which designates regions of technology research within the state and the Michigan Technology Tri-Corridor, have made industry growth a priority for the initiative and economic development organizations in Grand Rapids. A SmartZone designation helps different regions capture tax dollars to put back into the life sciences and technology industry while encouraging the clustering of those resources, said Susan McCormick, spokeswoman for the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.

Liberal outcry over Rice waste of breath

In anticipation of the liberal outcry on this campus, I would like to defend MSU President M. Peter McPherson's decision to have National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice speak at commencement.

'U' officials' meeting on workers' rights brings student protest

University officials say they will continue to protect workers' rights despite a student group's protest of a meeting between MSU President M.

Procrastinators prepare for tax day

After a year of relative freedom from the infamous letters "IRS," it's time once again for students and area residents to face one of life's certainties: tax day. Each year, the date April 15 serves as a hectic time for many procrastinating Americans who have waited until the last minute to tackle the maze of boxes and dotted lines that make up the income tax form. This year is no different. "I filed yesterday morning," said neuroscience graduate student Mike Schwartz on Wednesday.

'U' eliminating paper billing, switching to electronic bills

Postal mailboxes no longer will be filled with envelopes for billing information from MSU. Starting in the summer, all tuition and housing bills will be available only on the STUINFO Web site.

Barrel a dream spot for sunny day

Place: The Peanut Barrel Restaurant Address: 521 E. Grand River Ave. Hours: 11 a.m.

McPherson, Peace Corps members meet

Former Peace Corps members, prospective members and their families gathered in the living room of Cowles House on Wednesday evening listening to MSU President M.

Business upset over neighbor's new liquor license

An East Lansing jewelry store might close its downtown location after 23 years in a move the owner says is related to a recent liquor-license approval by the City Council. David Ladd, owner of Earport, 301 M.A.C.

Production explores alternative, realistic endings to fairy tales

In most childhood fairy tales, the key phrase "happily ever after," ends each book and places a smile on the child's face.

Traveling exhibit makes its way to E.L.

A collection of African-American artifacts is on display this weekend in East Lansing, highlighting the harsher aspects of history - from the slave trade to the civil rights movement. The Middle Passage African American traveling exhibit, with more than 250 artifacts dating back centuries, has taken residence in the second floor of the Hannah Community Center, 819 Abbott Road, through Sunday. Above glass displays filled with rusted iron shackles and ragged leather whips, the weary faces of freed slaves stare from the Reconstruction-period tin-type photographs. James Petty and his wife, Mary Anne, the owners of the exhibit, were busy finishing up the final touches on their display Wednesday afternoon - the same display that has been featured on the Oprah Winfrey Show, CNN and Black Entertainment Television. "We want to tell the truth," said Petty, adding that Americans, from the time they first learn about slavery in school, are given a sugarcoated version of African-American history.

Linebacker takes over family business

Thornhill, a name synonymous with MSU football. Throughout the program's history, three Thornhills - all related - have worn the Green and White at the linebacker position.

Workshop focuses on women's identity

Women looking to find balance in their lives will have an opportunity to examine personal power issues through a workshop today. The Women's Resource Center will sponsor "Creating the Life You Want," a program designed to address life-coaching skills and personal and professional empowerment for women.

BREAKING NEWS: Fire burns acre of dry land near Okemos store

Meridian Township police and firefighters responded to a fire near the corner of Park Lake and Grand River Avenue around 11:30 p.m.

Candy Initiative waste of 'U' funds

Gimme a break - literally. Break me off a piece of that $150. I mean, seriously, how can ASMSU vote to spend $150 on candy?

Departments ask for transfer to different college

Two academic units requested transfers to a different college at the Executive Committee of Academic Council meeting Tuesday. The Department of History and MATRIX - the Center for Humane Arts, Letters and Social Sciences - formally requested that the Office of the Provost move the two entities from the College of Arts & Letters to the College of Social Science.

Bill to regulate campaign money

Some Michigan lawmakers say political advertising plays a major role in deciding the outcome of an election, and it needs to be regulated. State Rep.

Police briefs 04/15/04

True signs that you had too much

On occasion, people will drink more than they can tolerate. That is especially the case at MSU, where partying is second nature to most.

Questionable

For those of you who tuned in to FOX Tuesday night to watch the final eight American Idols strut their stuff, you're very well aware that a presidential press conference replaced the show.

'Vol. 2' a satisfying return

Note: This review could contain minor spoilers for those who haven't seen "Kill Bill: Vol.