Tuesday, October 20, 1998

THE POST

Athens, Ohio * An Independent Daily Newspaper * Ohio University


Smart use of 'green' space

There's a new battle of the greens in Athens - between the green of money and the green of leaves.

Recent projects, such as the Oakmont residential subdivision and a new Holiday Suites hotel behind the Ohio University Inn, have local residents taking sides for either the economy or the environment.

For the greater good of Southeast Ohio, the economy should win in development disputes. Athens County has one of the highest unemployment rates and poverty rates in the state. Trees should not be cut down willy-nilly to make room for more businesses and houses, but if losing a few trees means one person gaining a job or financial stability, the sacrifice is justified.

An acceptable balance between preserving the environment and promoting the economy can be reached. With time and preparation, plans for development can be implemented without hurting endangered species, land structures or the area's beauty.

A balance between preserving the atmosphere of Athens and promoting progress also can be achieved. Bringing more money to the area through more taxpayers and tourism will improve the city. And, if necessary, codes can be created to ensure businesses and houses mesh with the character of the area.

The slippery slope argument that single developments will lead to the complete destruction of the area's environment and aura is invalid. It is highly improbable that Athens will turn into an industrial mecca or a suburban sprawl.

Opponents of these expansions need to look at the grand scheme of Southeast Ohio's needs. If they take a step back, they will see the green of money coming into the economy will be a wonderful complement to the green of the existing environment.

Speaking to the masses

It doesn't matter what you say, somebody always will be unhappy.

And President Glidden, in giving the State of the University address, is not immune to this law of public speaking. He did a good job of presenting important issues to an audience of mostly faculty members and alumni, but he needs to attempt to direct the speech to impact students.

The purpose of the event traditionally has been to assure employees and donors visiting for Homecoming that their time and money are going to a good cause. But students need to be reassured about their education as well.

There are simple steps the university can take to promote the interest and inclusion of students. First, the address should be more prominently advertised and promoted; many students do not even know it exists. It also could be televised on ACTV-7 to attract a more extensive audience. Even better, the address could include a question-and-answer session to discuss specific concerns.

If this interactive input is not possible, the university should attempt to get more input from students before the speech. Surveys or meetings with organizations could generate ideas about the purpose and focus of the address.

The first goal of the address should be to explain achievements and goals in a way that is meaningful to students. For example, the student affairs department is being reevaluated, but students don't know how this affects them. We want the answer to three hows: How are we doing? How are we going to continue to improve? How are students affected?

Glidden somewhat answered the first two questions, but he left out the crucial last question, which would give the address meaning for the students.


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