Say aloha to Hawaii’s new law!

 On Tuesday evening, Gov. Neil Abercrombie (D) signed a bill  making Hawaii the 15th state to legalize same-sex marriage. 

Abercrombie brought the bill back to legislature in August after the Supreme Court ruled that the Defense of Marriage Act was unconstitutional. Starting on December 2^nd, same-sex couples will finally have the opportunity for their wedding in paradise.

November has been a good month for same-sex marriage proponents. On November 5^th, Illinois passed a same-sex marriage bill.

Just a few years ago it would have been unthinkable that we’d see such a marked shift in public opinion on this contentious issue around the nation.

But for supporters and opponents of same sex marriage the battle is not over. There will be many more legislative fights in the years to come.

In Hawaii, it appears that the issue has been finally put (or is it “lei”ed?)  to rest.

When you watch college sports, announcers refer to players as “Student-athletes”.

But it might be better to call them “Athlete-students”…

Or in some cases just drop the “student” part all together.

This became apparent on November 13 when potential basketball icons were showcased in a 24-hour hoops marathon that opened the new college season. There were top ranked teams featuring 5 star-recruits who are projected to be top picks in the 2014 NBA Draft.

Andrew Wiggins of the University of Kansas is one of these. He is one of the most coveted recruits in recent history and is anticipated to have a great (albeit short) college career.

 Before the season began, Wiggins stated in an interview that his goal is to be the top in pick in next year’s NBA Draft, meaning that he is likely one and done this coming year.

Wiggins is not the first to say and do this, and will not be the last. But what does it say about the college admissions officer that has accepted them into their university?

How can a college have mission statement that states a commitment to educate its students, but allows athletes to leave without completing their education?

Is this practice healthy for institutions of higher learning? Or is big college athletics really calling the shots? Let us know !!!