Students need to get involved because it's the right thing to do. The world would look so different if everyone exhibited compassion and dedication to enriching the lives of each other because they knew in their hearts it's what they are supposed to do. A 4 percent decrease two years in a row just won't do.

Last week the project was handed out to students for free. Unfortunately, the final product doesn't quite live up to the promise. As far as free planners go, Red Pages is pretty decent. But we can't help but feel disappointed when comparing the small planner to the original vision.

Whatever the reason, borrowing in America in general needs to stop. It's not just Christians. A lot of people are guilty, especially our government. In the last decade the national debt has increased by $4 trillion because of unwise government spending. As of April, the national debt reached $9.5 trillion, according to the U.S. Treasury Department.

I believe people engaging in the open and uninhibited8212;indeed free8212;pursuit of knowledge and personal improvement at our university is a far greater and more appropriate tribute to the ideals of our nation and its founding than any recitation session could ever hope to be.

By Kevin MerrimanKevin Merriman#post_author_author, .post_author_avatar, .post_author_box{ display: none; }

The presidential election affects more than just U students and citizens of this country8212;it affects our relationships with foreign countries and foreign markets. A decision of this magnitude, with its international effect, should never be decided solely by a candidate's personality. Vote smart by voting on what matters.

If Hillary Clinton supporters take McCain's choice as a reason for voting Republican this November, well, that's their choice. But Hillary Clinton was (and is) a formidable politician and senator8212;Palin is an attractive wife and mother who shuttles her kids to the rink and otherwise has nothing much to offer those Americans who are facing serious challenges every day.

By having ignored voters, we open the door for special interest groups, which leads to a more easily corrupted system. Special interest groups and lobbyists will control our country if we don't. So we need to get these third party candidates in the spotlight.

Buying overpriced books isn't the only option. Students should look into other possibilities before taking the dive

There is a lot to learn about Sarah Palin, the Idaho native, mother of five and governor of Alaska. As the Republican convention continues this week, people across America will see what she is all about, including her voting record, policies and personal life.