Michigan has been hit especially hard during this economic downturn and as much as we want a substantive change in many folks’ circumstances, any little bit that acknowledges their struggles and support for the people in the state should be appreciated. We have such support represented in a decal being worn on the helmets of Michigan State football players.

The full story from the AP can be found at http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/wire/chi-ap-fbc-michiganst-helme,0,6107965.story, with an excerpt below.

(Excerpt)

Michigan St. unveils helmet decal to support state

Associated Press
5:12 PM CDT, September 3, 2009

EAST LANSING, Mich.

Michigan State’s football team has added a decal to its helmets in an effort to show support for the economically struggling state.

The Spartans will wear a sticker with a silver outline of Michigan on the backs of their helmets this season, starting with Saturday’s opener against visiting Montana State. The “Silver Lining” decal announced Thursday is intended to symbolize the university’s commitment to help the state move toward a brighter future.

Michigan’s unemployment rate was 15 percent in July. Federal statistics show the state has had at least a share of the nation’s highest jobless rate for 41 straight months.

“Given the challenging economic conditions that we face in the state of Michigan, we wanted to show support for the residents and businesses in our home state and encourage everyone to unite for our common good,” Michigan State coach Mark Dantonio said in a statement.

The helmet sticker concept originated with a suggestion from Dantonio to athletic director Mark Hollis. The original idea was to have an emblem specific to the auto industry, but it evolved into a broader symbol.  (The article continues at http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/wire/chi-ap-fbc-michiganst-helme,0,6107965.story)