For those of you who don't know, and those that do for that matter, a friend of mine passed away early on the morning of April 16. His name was Terrence Ortiz, known simply as "Chili" to his friends and family. Chili died in a car accident, but that's...

Lt. Gov. George Ryan will be at NIU today to make an announcement about the university's funding proposals. Ryan will hold a news conference at 3 p.m. on the outdoor plaza west of Faraday Hall about the NIU funding proposals, which will be considered...

I'm no expert on drafting football players, and I'm definitely not NFL scout material, but like every other Sunday-afternoon couch coach, I do have a few opinions about Sunday and Monday's NFL draft. As is the case with most drafts, this one had its winners...

The USS Iowa came home Sunday, and those who survived the explosion that ripped through one of her gun turrets were welcomed with smiles, hugs and feelings of relief. The scenes on the news were riveting. Lady Luck shined on those who survived, but she...

The DeKalb City Council Monday agreed to pursue a Lucinda Avenue reconstruction plan that will eliminate a row of parking along the street. The design, which was approved by NIU's environment committee, includes a raised median where it is possible and...

What I learned from Warren Farrel: He tried to show us the soft side of masculinity. What he presented was all the thoughts going through a young man's head before his first date in 1966. The male/female image Mr. Farrel showed me seemed completely outdated....

When it comes to higher education, there is something to be said about good, quality professors. That would probably be that they are priceless. The heart of education lies with instruction, motivation and intellect combined, which all make for a good...

Irony: A Seattle woman drinks up to a half of a fifth of Jim Beam bourbon daily during her pregnancy, and turns around to sue the distillery for her son's severe birth defects. The woman gave birth to a boy five years ago who was born mentally retarded,...

Mary Mihelick, assistance athletic director for promotion and marketing, assured the Athletic Board that NIU would not do "anything foolish" in its relationship with Coors Light Beer. (The Northern Star, March 31.) I have news for Ms. Mihelick. If NIU...

In recent months, and especially since the announcement that the DeKalb County landfill will reach maximum capacity this summer, there has been a growing awareness and interest in recycling. While I applaud this interest and awareness, it is my opinion...

When I drive to DeKalb from Chicago, I keep seeing signs that say "Illinois Research and Development Corridor." And I look around and all I see is a bunch of farms! Then, when I get near to DeKalb, there is big sign that says "NIU students use the exit...

The battle to hinder the spread of AIDS, and the attempt to find an adequate drug to prolong the lives of those inflicted with the disease, have been filled with confrontation, and often also with cries of despair and confusion. It might seem futile to...