The Barometer Online

We all participate in activities that statistically might kill us. Driving is dangerous. So is drinking alcohol. But in this country, nothing is made to seem as bad for you as smoking. Really, is it? Or is that just what everyone wants you to think? Today, Student Health Services is holding a Spring Tobacco-Free Fair; yet another event to get the word out that smoking is - in fact - bad for you.

I saw a story last week that absolutely shocked me. It left me sad, angered and frustrated with the status of women in this country. On May 3, the Chicago Tribune's Shannon Ryan reported that the Women's National Basketball Association began to offer rookies lessons in makeup and fashion as another attempt to increase viewership.

Yesterday many people celebrated with their mothers, a day recognized by our nation to respect those who have brought us into the world, those who raised us, those who have nurtured us along our path and pushed us to reach for our dreams. There are many people who weren't able to celebrate with their mothers, for whatever reason, personal choice, family conflict, mothers who have passed on.