???It's winter.
???At UB that just means ice everywhere, snowdrifts, red faces, runny noses, dry skin, hacking coughs and of course, chapped lips. Now, unless you are Lil' Mama and your lip-gloss is poppin', you need some protection in this frozen tundra.
???This past week, I found myself in this very predicament. My lips were getting dry and could have used some rejuvenation.
???As a senior, I've learned some of UB's best-kept secrets over the years. Exhibit A-the offerings from the Wellness Education Services in the Student Union.
???As I walked in with my friend, the receptionist very nicely greeted us both. I picked up one of the complimentary lip balms that they graciously provide for the students in a plastic container on the front desk. C'mon, some of you know what I'm talking about-they're amazing.
???I got what I went in for, and now my friend, who begged for some anonymity, asked if they had some of that great relaxing lotion for her dry hands. I approached the adviser who runs the Wellness Education Services and questioned him about some of the moisturizer.
???I was surprised to hear his reaction to my inquiry. He let me know the Wellness Education Services is not allowed to provide any substances that "touch the skin" and have their logo on it for fear of some kind of prosecution regarding a possible allergic reaction for which they could be held liable.
???Wow, not only is that a mouthful, it's ridiculous. I think this instituted rule is a bit senseless.
???According to James Bowman, he was surprised at their decision to stop providing lip balm and lotion for students. He stated that it was a liability issue and if someone had a reaction to the product, the university would be held responsible.
???Student Wellness Education Services is not at fault for complying with the policy because it's a part of a larger trend in American society towards becoming more careful as opposed to becoming more responsible for our own actions.
???So what's next? Not teaching students out of the fear that some miniscule piece of knowledge derived from an ideology or philosophy will be used for a destructive purpose?
???It's a snowball that's tumbling out of control down the hill of political correctness and fear of legal ramifications.
???Don't do the right thing out of concern for having someone arraigning you on some scandalous charges?
So let's recap: The Wellness Center would be held responsible for providing goods and services to benefit students and then sued for doing so. I know it's a lawyer's dream, but really, don't bite the hand that feeds you.
