UA athletes should learn to live on less, not steal

I was appalled to see the article on the KVOA Web site that asked if the $880 monthly stipend paid to those with athletic scholarships is enough. I am sorry, but of course it's enough ÷ if you are willing to learn to live within your means and not believe that you are entitled to so much more. There are thousands of students at the UA who do not get financial aid, let alone scholarships and stipends, yet they do not feel the need to steal from the U-Mart. There are thousands of students who work full time, carry a full course load and still have less than $880 a month to live on, but they manage without stealing from the U-Mart. [Read article]

After two years of relentless bad news, the UA seems to be turning a financial corner. President Peter Likins' announcement Thursday that Campaign Arizona, the UA's billion-dollar fundraiser, has reached its goal 21 months early is by far the most significant sign we've seen that the university's budget woes may be ending.

But the $1 billion won't solve all our problems. Almost all of it comes in the form of restricted funds, which means it must be used for donor-specified purposes. [Read article]

As I walked down East Second Street, heading toward the Islamic Center of Tucson, my stomach growled once again, protesting for food.

The last 15 minutes of my fast were becoming challenging, especially since I had woken up 10 minutes too late for Sahour (the pre-sunrise meal) that morning.

An important Muslim belief is that Allah has locked the devil away for the month of Ramadan. Because Ramadan is a devil-free month, it is easier to fast. [Read article]

Last week, SafeRide, the program that ASUA sponsors for students working or studying on campus, changed its policy as to who really needs a safe ride.

Now, in order to use the program, you either have to be alone or with one friend. Groups of three or more will no longer be eligible to call up for a free ride.

It's about time.

Over the past few years, more and more students have been using the service out of laziness, just wanting a ride ÷ usually just around the corner ÷ or wanting a ride to or from a party. [Read article]