In light of the 9/11 hearings I have started to question how safe are we as a nation? This seems like a silly question to the untrained eye, we are the strongest nation in the world, so if we are not safe every other nation must be in deep trouble. In truth, with all of the intelligence agencies looking after our best interests, we, as a nation, still are not safe.

Record numbers of students are studying abroad in countries like France, Germany and Australia. But thanks to the National Student Exchange, which is offered at two universities right here in Rhode Island, the less-adventurous can test new waters by studying “abroad” in another state.

Abstinence. Drug use. Sex. Drinking. These are all issues that teens today are faced with. Church youth groups around the world are combating these negative forces with meetings and activities. Many area churches on Aquidneck Island are doing the same for the youth of Rhode Island.

Collecting antique jewelry has become more and more fashionable in recent years. Sentiment, value, uniqueness and nostalgia all add to the popularity of collecting antique jewelry.

It came just when you needed it.

The cell phone bill was a few days overdue and the fridge was empty. You were tired of living on Ramen Noodles and macaroni and cheese. A long needed trip to Stop & Shop was needed to get the essentials for the apartment: milk, bread, cheese and maybe some ice cream if there was enough money left.