President Robert L. Carothers is pushing Rhode Island congressmen to support the repeal of a drug provision to the High Education Act that disqualifies students from receiving any type of federal financial aid. The provision, which was implemented in 1998, says students with drug convictions are not eligible to receive federal financial aid, including federal loans. The provision "is not going to solve our nation's problems," Carothers said. The road to recovery from a drug charge is through education. Also, since students with a conviction already face the consequences of the law, "There's no reason to deny them access to financial aid." [continues 268 words]
With the sweet sound of birds chirping in the mild air, and trees almost in full bloom, students and members of the community gathered on the University of Rhode Island's Quadrangle for the fourth annual Hempfest on Saturday. Arranged by the Hemp Organization for Prohibition Elimination (HOPE), people of all ages attended the free show to enjoy the sounds of Foxtrot Zulu, Carlos Washington and the Giant People Ensemble and other local bands. Vendors selling food, books, jewelry and other items lined up along the sidewalks. While some browsed the tables, taking in the sweet aroma of incense, others laid down on the soft grass, enjoying the music. [continues 506 words]
