Politically Direct
Does it concern you at all that the Top 10 Searches of 2011 included 7 celebrities, the iPhone and only two significant world events?
Uncivil Discourse
Last week, I brought you a plea to not fear all teachers and school officials after several incidents, most notably the Penn State sex abuse scandal. But now, I'm concerned about how much power sports have over schools.
Meals on Heels
Would paying ten cents for a toy really stop childhood obesity? An article on McDonald's in San Francisco states that they are now charging an extra ten cents to have a toy added to a Happy Meal.
Polite Society
"Give me an "S!" Now give me a "T!" Oh never mind, I do NOT have time to spell this word. I'm just so stressed. Whether you say stressed, crazed, flustered or can't fit it in your schedule to come up with a word, this time of year is crazy for us all.
Statesman Editorial
The Statesman recently reported the top 25 paid positions at ISU. Lloyd Benjamin, President Emeritus and art history professor, rests comfortably at the number three spot, raking in almost $200,000 a year.
In the Democrat’s Corner
The Internet has everything that I could possibly want out a person or even a large group of people. It entertains and educates me; it also provides means of communicating to other humans.
The Pink Elephant
Attention, everyone: I have tragic news. The Indiana Department of Education will no longer require cursive writing to be taught in all Indiana schools, starting next fall.
Sounding Off
While most people will be spending this week gearing up for the holidays and forming their in-law invasion plans, I will spend it listening to nothing but the Beatles and contemplating what the world would be without the influence of one of the most well-loved men in music's history.
What's Playing
With Christmas just around the corner, it's time to start contemplating what to do over the break. If you're anything like me, you'll probably head to the theater at least twice, and with good reason since the holiday season is packed with fantastic movies.
Tuning In
On Wednesday night, the Grammy nominations were revealed through the traditional Grammy Nominations Concert. The show is meant to announce the nominations for the four big awards: Album of the Year, Record of the Year, Song of the Year and Best New Artist, but it is mostly an hour-long concert.
Statesman Editorial
Our country takes a lot of its freedoms for granted—the bulk of which are protected by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.
Politically Direct
Commitment is becoming somewhat of a curse word these days.
Uncivil Discourse
Every child has to go to school, despite the number of fake colds or dogs ready at hand to eat homework, but recent sex scandals and bullying issues don't inspire much confidence in parents.
Sounding Off
When I think of supporting artists one of the first things I do is buy their album.
In the Democrat's Corner
If people know me, they understand that I am a nerd when it comes to politics, science fiction and fantasy. I especially love to read and discuss plot points and ideas when it comes to fantasy fiction. Even though these stories are completely outlandish and impossible, I really enjoy the escapism—it makes life more interesting.
The Pink Elephant
In Indiana, we are required to pass a balanced budget. This means that every two years when the budget is made, concessions must be made to ensure that we do not spend more money than we take in. Don't spend more money than you earn.
Let's Get Political
On Friday, Nov. 18, Bill Clinton visited Greencastle and presented a speech to DePauw University students and residents, putting the audience on the edge of their seats.
Meals on Heels
Since Congress is now considering pizza a vegetable, I must be the healthiest person alive—it is completely ridiculous.
Statesman Editorial
This editorial is dedicated to you, Thanksgiving.
Polite Society
Did someone say mashed potatoes?
What's Playing
If you're anything like me, dear readers, then you've been extremely busy with everything in your life and you haven't been home in, what feels like, years.
Politically Direct
Rejoice, Sycamore video game fans. For this week, awesomeness is brought to us.
In case you missed it because you've been living in a bomb shelter or held prisoner in a foreign country, the new "Halo" came out Tuesday.
Meals on Heels
Now that it is getting closer to the end of the semester, all I keep hearing from various people is "I am out of Commons Cash. I wish they would take credits through the week."
Uncivil Discourse
Recently, Jon Goslin, the star of TLC's "Jon and Kate Plus 8," was up in arms after the show's editor, William Blankinship, was charged with child pornography.
Idiocy is nothing new when it comes to politics. Every president, presidential candidate, party member (and those even lower on the totem pole of American productivity) have all made mistakes. We've been witness to conspiracies, poor lawmaking decisions, lethargic laziness, blatant greed, white-collar mischief. It's just another day in the salt mines of D.C.
The Pink Elephant
Shortly after finals ended at ISU and we all went home last spring, the Indiana Supreme Court made a controversial ruling.
In the Democrat’s Corner
Today, I want to talk to you about the cancer of our "great" nation that has been turning every politician against the interests of the population. I am, of course, talking about lobbyists, the corruptors sent from the owners of our country. By owners, I mean the corporations.
Polite Society
Although the "Polite Society" column has many aims, the clear objective is to create a group of well rounded individuals. There are many differing definitions of the "well-rounded" person, but what we will focus on this week is a trait that numerous college students tend to throw by the wayside: activity. While examining tasks such as walking, texting and using a library computer, we will see the divide between effective activity and that of its opposite.
Statesman Editorial
In May, the 24-hour computer lab in the Student Computing Complex will close its doors, and a pilot program will start this December that allows students to print from the Commons.
Tuning In
As I was watching my favorite shows on Hulu this week, I noticed something annoying about the commercials that pop up every ten minutes—they were Christmas commercials.
What's Playing
I used to really like vampires. Vampires were creepy, mysterious and usually just badass. When the first "Twilight" novel came out I thought, "I'll give this a go."
Sounding Off
Every year we all get geared up for this fabulous time when sugar plums are dancing and credit cards are being maxed out, so we can all pretend we have exorbitant amounts of holiday cheer.
Statesman Editorial
Today marks 11/11/11—a palindromic phenomenon surrounded by superstition and speculation. It will serve as a memorable wedding date for many couples, a novelty birthday for others and could mean the possible end of the world of civilization to certain doomsday prophets.
But to those who have fought, died and sacrificed for this country, November 11 is recognized as Veterans Day.
Sounding Off
How many times has your favorite band finally come within a fifty mile radius, and you get really excited and get that moment of "Huzzah I finally go see The Flying Dunder Muffins in concert?"
Politically Direct
Foundational studies require every student to take at least two multicultural courses, but if you're a senior like me, you've probably taken at least twice that many, which begs the question: what are we really getting from these classes?
Polite Society
Excuse: an apology for; seek to remove the blame of. We hear a lot of these, right? Phrases such as "I didn't have time," or "The directions were confusing," come to mind. In a desirable society, an excuse would be an outrageous claim for unfinished or unsatisfactory work. However, the current society desperately needs a doctor check-up for its excuse infection.
Meals on Heels
Finally, November has arrived. What does this mean? THANKSGIVING. Who is not excited about Thanksgiving break and feasting on all kinds of amazing food? I know I am.
The Pink Elephant
Imagine that for five weeks, you decide not to go to work to protest what your co-workers are doing. You expect to not only keep your job, but still earn your paycheck. When you are faced with financial penalties for skipping work, you are both surprised and upset.
In the Democrat's Corner
The other day, Republican presidential candidate, Michelle Bachmann, claimed that Iran has threatened us with nuclear attack.
Readers speak out
My name is Kaleena (Dale) McCormick. I just read your article regarding Miss ISU and found your comments to be disrespectful to the women who participated and lacking factual backing.
Readers speak out
Dear editor:
As I have graduated from ISU, I no longer read the Statesman on a regular basis. Today however I received a link to the Miss ISU editorial. In addition to being poorly written, it is misinformed. As someone who wrote for The Statesman, I took pride in the quality of the editorial section. This article?
What's Playing
People always tend to think of weddings as happy occasions. If that doesn't do anything for you, there's usually at least an open bar. For some of the unlucky ones, however, they view it as another slap in the face that proves how sad and alone they really are. I've been there; it's an awful and bitter place to be.
Tuning In
Actors quit shows for many reasons: Charlie Sheen had mental/emotional/physical/public breakdowns. Steve Carell left "The Office" because of his blossoming movie career. Yeah, he can say he wanted to spend more time with his family all he wants, but I still don't believe him. Chris Meloni left "Law & Order: SVU" due to a breakdown of contract negotiations.
Statesman Staff Editorial
The problem with pageants of any kind is that they are usually exclusive, focusing on a cookie-cutter image of what a woman should be (in the eyes of the judges).
Uncivil Discourse
In many ways, role playing is moving from the dark into mainstream media and pop culture.
Meals on Heels
As you are eating your delicious food, do you ever think about what the kitchen from where it came looks like or even how it was prepared?
Polite Society
In the spirit of the upcoming election "Polite Society" has some concerns about legendary campaign tactics.
The Pink Elephant
Do you know what next Tuesday is? Yes, it's November the 8, the first Tuesday after the first Monday of November. And that means it's Election Day.
In the Democrat's Corner
It seems that Herman Cain came out of nowhere in the presidential election, despite being supported by the Koch Brothers for years, and he is taking the Republicans by storm.
Let's Get Political
Lately, a Canadian-based group has been "occupying" Wall Street, calling themselves the 99 percent, in representation of the wealth distribution in America.
Tuning In
"Never jump into a pile of leaves with a wet sucker." This sage advice comes from one of the most intelligent elementary school kids of all time. I am, of course, speaking of Linus Van Pelt.
Sounding Off
Imagine yourself thrown back in time to the era of leg warmers and parachute pants, where any time was hammer time and white boys managed to top the rap charts.
What’s Playing
In this day and age, it's getting much harder to pretend to be someone else, so cases of mistaken identity are usually very rare.
Statesman Editorial
When students graduate from college, their biggest concerns will lie with their impending debt. But President Barrack Obama has made a proposal to alleviate some of that worry.
President Obama aims to reduce the college student debt, which currently totals $1 trillion
Uncivil Discourse
November.
This month conjures up images of turkey, orange leaves, parades and the occasional drunk uncle. But for others, visions of keyboards, coffee and 50,000-word documents pop up.
Polite Society
Publicity is a word we hear a lot and can be defined as "the state of being public or open to general observation or knowledge."
Greetings Indiana State University. I hope this letter finds you all in productive mind and spirit. Since I began my educational career at Indiana State University, I have become increasingly weary reading about the constant rise of cruelty and aggression reported here amongst us.
Statesman Editorial
For now, students aren't required to participate in community service, but what if they were?
The Pink Elephant
Fred Nation released his jobs plan for the city on October 20, and I was struck by how much it reminded me of another Democratic mayoral challenger this fall: Melina Kennedy. Many of you may not know her very well, but I'm from the Indianapolis area and a lot of the more interesting local political discussion has focused on the race between Kennedy and Ballard, Republican incumbent.
In the Democrat's Corner
Now this might surprise you, but did you know that we are actually in an armed conflict with another nation?
Write and Wrong
Last year, my youngest brother (who's now 19) and I wondered from house to house in Brazil, Indiana, holding out our empty Wal-Mart sacks and asking for treats.
Statesman Editorial
Although meetings for Occupy Terre Haute have been modest so far, the group hopes to spread awareness through their Facebook page.
Meals on Heels
Everyone has that one specific type of food that they could easily eat every day. So what is your favorite type of food or even your favorite restaurant?
Sounding Off
For the last decade or so, one thing has been majorly crippling the music industry: illegal downloading.
What's Playing
I have a bit of a confession to make, and it can be embarrassing at times. I am a huge Johnny Depp fan. Not a stalker kind of fan, but I'm fairly certain that I would marry the guy if I got the chance. That being said, I will try my best to not infuse this article with too much Johnny Depp love. So here goes.
Tuning IN
Some new shows don't have the most original plot structure.
Write or Wrong
It's amazing what iPhone apps can do these days. Do you want to look at pictures of fluffy, sweater-clad kittens while sitting in Math 102? There's got to be an app out for that. Or say you need a gumbo recipe, and you absolutely can't wait until psychology's over to look it up. I'm sure there's an app for that too, chef.
Uncivil Discourse
Social media is a touchy subject when dealing with children. Internet predators, cyber bullying and identity theft are around every corner in the Internet, something is waiting to harm children. However, Carnegie Mellon University and the Web Wise Kids Organization are striving to give children some protection.
Polite Society
Among many variables, impression plays a large part in the configuration of a polite society.
New York, Berlin, London and Chicago are all "occupied." And Terre Haute is about to join that ever-growing list.
In the Democrat's Corner
Last week, I wrote an article proclaiming that the younger generation is not doing anything in the realm of politics and not bothering to change the world. I am pleased to see that the youth of this country proved me wrong and right after I submitted the article to the paper, a movement started.
The Pink Elephant
Yesterday was the Pro-Life Day of Silent Solidarity. Around the world, students at over 1500 schools observed a day of silence to remember the millions of children who will remain silent forever.
Uncivil Discourse
In a recent MSNBC article "Garden Staters would like to send ‘Jersey Shore' out to sea," many people from New Jersey don't approve of the show or its stereotypical portrayal of New Jerseyans.
Let's Get Political
Sadly, not all campaigns are successful because of candidates' views. It seems that what drives most campaigns is money.
Write or Wrong
With the tough economy and political unrest plaguing our generation currently, I see why protesting is making such a huge comeback in this country.
Sounding Off
I am glad musicians take pride in their intellectual accomplishments and feel the need to share them with us by making songs about the days of the week, but forgive me for wanting to leave that to the kindergarten teachers who actually have a use for tunes of that nature.
What's Playing
How many of you have seen "New York Minute?"
It was the movie that came out in 2004 that was supposed to be the Olsen twins' big film.
Yeah, I didn't see it either because I've never been a big fan of them. Their younger sister, however, is going to be phenomenal.
Tuning In
So most of the fall TV shows have started their season, and, just like any freshman class, some have risen to the top and some have sank to the bottom. Let's size up these new shows.
Meals on Heels
Everyone spends a great deal of their time watching television, especially young children. Watching TV can influence what your child says, does and even eats.
Statesman Editorial
Homecoming: it's a word that's synonymous with school spirit, our amazing football team, campus pride and, hopefully, this year, victory.
However, due to traditional events such as The Walk and Tent City, Homecoming also means drunken debauchery, poor sportsmanship, rude fans and utter chaos in downtown Terre Haute.
Meals of Heels
Being a freshman, I didn't know what to expect from Homecoming.
What's Playing
Let me start out by saying that I am not your mother, and I'm not a prude. I completely understand the appeal of The Walk. It's an epic rite of passage that allows you to prove to your buddies how tough you are…before you throw up and lose consciousness. I'm not going to tell you not to walk because it's your choice.
Polite Society
Grilled hot dogs, never-ending soda, face paint and fans: Who doesn't love tailgating? While the beloved tradition of football grew in America, tailgating quickly echoed its popularity.
Uncivil Discourse
When Homecoming rolls around this weekend, those of you still conscious will no doubt be focused on the football game, the Mike Posner concert and whatever leftover Walk-style parties you plan on attending.
The Pink Elephant
I love school spirit. There's something wonderful about being part of something bigger, and I love all the energy.
Write and Wrong
Board up your windows, shield your children (or somebody's children), hide your spouse, write your will and evacuate quickly; the crow invasion is upon us.
Polite Society
In previous articles, "Polite Society" has focused on the individual: how one dresses, speaks and walks. However, this week the main goal will be to achieve more polite social boundaries such as the longevity of conversation.
Sounding Off
Everyone has a political opinion that they take to the polls and use to support their candidate or party of choice.
The Pink Elephant
Four years ago, I first stepped onto ISU's campus as a freshman. Back then, you couldn't walk to class without passing through a cloud of smoke, especially if you had a class in Root Hall. Students would smoke right outside the doorway, blocking the west entrance to the building. With ISU's smoking ban, these issues are greatly reduced.
In the Democrat's Corner
I would like to think that the youth of this country is like a sleeping bear; it spends a lot of time doing nothing, but when awoken, it can do amazing things.
Let's Get Political
This election is more of a digital age than President Barrack Obama's infamous campaign funding of online donations. Republicans are geared towards the 21st century and the young voters that prowl the social media hubs.
Statesman Editorial
President Daniel J. Bradley is still moving forward with his plans for community and university development.
Uncivil Discourse
As humans, we have an innate curiosity about the lives of others, an innate voyeurism.
What's Playing
Oh, Hollywood; the land of promise where the money flows like water and the ideas haven't been original in years. As 2011 progresses, a good amount of the films we will see are remakes.
Meals on Heels
It's that time of year again. The leaves are falling, pumpkins are being sold and, of course, festivals are occurring.
Tuning In
After being on the air for 23 years, "The Simpsons" was in danger of being canceled. What was the cause? Well, money of course.
Statesman editorial
This year, ISU Student Health Promotions and the Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos and Newlin law firm were going to provide free cab rides during Homecoming.
The Pink Elephant
You're on your way to meet a friend, but you're running a little late.
Let's Get Political
There comes a time in everyone's life when they put something online that they will someday regret.
Uncivil Discourse
Pretend, for a moment, that you have just been introduced to a person by a friend. The person shakes your hand as he says "Hello." And instantly, you know from this person's accent that he is from a different region of the country or another country entirely.
In the Democrat's Corner
It is job bill argument time for Congress and that means endless of hours of arguing, nitpicking and complaining from both the left and the right about how we should fix our economy without actually fixing anything.
Polite Society
The first steps to achieving a more polite society require only minute changes to common activities. Take, for example, three everyday actions which, in themselves, are as easy as pie, but when performed incorrectly, begin to stink up social order.
Statesman Editorial
As we enter into yet another election season there is one thing on the minds of Americans—should I vote, and for whom should I vote?
The Pink Elephant
In the 2011 session of the Indiana General Assembly this year, major pro-life legislation was passed.
Write and Wrong
On Monday, President Barack Obama gave the usual debt reduction speech, but with an added pleasant surprise: the "Buffett Rule."
Polite Society
Have you thought of your wedding day? Have you pictured the flowers, the color scheme, the dinner menu, or the guests? Perhaps you see ripe daisies, light pink decorations, Asian style salmon, and your closet friends surrounding you.
Uncivil Discourse
I stumbled across a website for the Michigan Conservative Union, and on this website was a post entitled "What's an uber-conservative?"
Statesman Editorial
In this social media era, Americans have the freedom to share almost anything in their lives with the world.
Write and wrong
Who lives in a Pineapple under the sea? Persuasive and harmful and evil is he. If blabbering nonsense be something you wish. Then talk to Angeline Lillard and Jennifer Peterson of the University of Virginia.
Techno Logic
What if I told you that Amazon is becoming the Netflix for books? I'm sure that many of you are probably thinking: "We already have something like that, it's called a library!"
Polite Society
Manners is a word often grouped along with "please and thank you," "but mommy," and other such quotations of pleasantry and adolescent objections.
Uncivil Discourse
Last season, in an episode of NBC's sitcom "Community," the dean of a community college announces that Vice President Joe Biden will be stopping by on a tour. In his excitement he also announces he will be borrowing his sister's Uncle Sam outfit, complete with plunging neck line and mid-thigh-length, figure-hugging shorts.
Statesman Editorial
It was brought to our attention recently that the College Democrats have one official member: the president.
Let's get political
In the past, it has been assumed a woman could not handle the presidency of our country because the soft and nurturing nature that all women possess would undoubtedly leave America with a weak and indecisive leader.
The Pink Elephant
The Pink Elephant is back. For those of you who don't remember or weren't here, the Pink Elephant is a column I wrote last fall. I worked at the Statehouse last spring, but now I am back in Terre Haute for my last year—and pretty excited about it.
The effects of 9/11
As the tenth anniversary of the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001 approaches, we grapple with the hard reality that our nation has transformed.
Has that change been for better or worse? As the years roll forward and we commemorate those who lost their lives that day, are we lighting the candles for them or for our ravaged country?
ISU’s first cash bar sets an example while raising concern
Author, lawyer spoke on issues of perjury
Local program introduces international students to ISU
Sycamores Black Out the Drake University Bulldogs
Women’s basketball falls to Redbirds
Strong second half push Shockers over Sycamores
Students reduce wattage to win
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