Free Republic

It is with great sadness and regret that I post: Joseph Phillips OD, aka “BadJoe,” passed away today, November 1, 2012, after a long illness. Joe wanted to hang on until November 7, 2012, but lost his struggle just a few days too early. Joe was a patriot, a lover of liberty, and an independent-minded gentleman. He leaves behind family, friends, and a loving wife. He will be missed. RIP BadJoe.

I got Freepmailed this evening from an old pal who first turned me on to Free Republic...I, of course, registered right away and soon began putting my feet into the water by posting and replying on occasion. Yet, my pal chose to remain a lurker until TODAY!! She's a veteran Freeper and has even done some of the Los Angeles picket sign Freeping events. Keep an eye out for her...she'll quickly become a major contributor. So, let's all hear it for....ta da....SortaBichy!!

Beating out every health problem from depression to allergies, back pain ranks at the top of student-reported health complaints, according to the latest data from the Student Health Center. Forty-five percent of the 510 students surveyed said they had experienced back pain within the last school year. Experts attribute back pain in the college years primarily to prolonged immobility and incorrect posture. "It's cool just to slouch," said Eric Lim, a freshman majoring in computer science. "You don't want to be all uptight." Poorly designed seating in USC lecture halls, classrooms and computer workstations also contributes to back pain among...