
Redshirt sophomore defensive end Tyrone Smith has experienced a lot of hardship during in his life. The 6' 4" 251 pound Smith grew up living in Pittsburgh, and at the age of 13 he lost his mother to kidney failure. That same month his grandfather, who he had lived with his entire life, passed as well. Last year Smith lost his brother Andrew Smith, who was caught up in a brawl over owed money. Smith's journey to Penn State was not an easy one, but now he's making a most of it as a member of the football team.

Last night, the Bad Publicity blog put on a five-act show of local music at Abba Java coffee house. It lasted for about three hours and included acoustic, hip-hop, and electronic dance music. Find out one writer's opinion about it.

Onward State has gathered a list of tips for those who don't know what to expect for tonight. Find out what they are after the jump.

Tom Corbett has been a lightning rod of criticism on how he handled the investigation of Jerry Sandusky when he was Attorney General. In the race for state Attorney General, Kathleen Kane, a Democrat, and David Freed, a Republican, have each expressed opinions on whether Corbett's leadership needs further review. The November election will be the first chance that Pennsylvania residents have to make a material statement on their governor.

It's Homecoming Week and that means plenty of former Penn State students will be cruising through their old stomping grounds. We have a few reasons as to why those alumni are awesome.

Civic engagement in national elections among student-age voters is a long-standing challenge. Often students who live busy lives are indifferent about voting until days before the election. However, all too often in these situations, folks try to vote at the last minute without understanding the procedure involved.