Progress Report

Pass- Ohio University Student Senate didn't waste any time passing resolutions for Spring Quarter. At its last meeting, members encouraged the closing of Court Street from 7 p.m. to 4 a.m. Friday and Saturday on a trial basis. The vote was passed by a small margin, 18-13. We give a 'thumbs up' to the Student Senate for taking a stand on an issue that affects students and citizens of Athens. A trial period won't hurt anyone. After all, it's just a try.

Fail- The Ohio University Police Department earns failing marks for moving their offices out of Scott Quad. Their plans to move off campus are baffling. Shouldn't campus police be ••on•• campus? We need to ask the officers what is best for OU students – being accessible or having a new building? Their current Scott Quad home might be small, but any student can walk from class to the OUPD. Director of Campus Safety Ted Jones said response time for calls would not change. But is this ••really•• possible with a move beyond West Green?

Needs improvement- The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries' agreement to increase oil production leaves much to be desired. The new agreement would knock off a few cents from the current national average of $1.60 per gallon for gas. Clinton wanted OPEC to boost production of oil to 2.5 million barrels per day; OPEC approved a 1.45 million barrels per day increase. It is a nice thought of OPEC to save us a few pennies, but more should be done to reduce prices. This price reduction might not even become apparent because of the approaching summer, when gas will be in high demand. We encourage OPEC's efforts and hope for more action.

Pass- While some students on spring break were busy evening out their tans, other students were helping those in need. Campus Crusade for Christ/Athletes in Action sponsored three outreach trips to France, New York City and Florida. On these trips students shared a helping hand and their beliefs. Students who visited France spoke with French college students, comparing religious and cultural differences. New York City volunteers visited Brooklyn, the Bronx and Harlem. Habitat for Humanity traveled to South Carolina to build homes and teach inner-city children. These individuals need to be recognized for giving a most valuable gift: their time.

Pass- The U.S. Supreme Court just ruled that police officers don't have the right to search a person solely based on an anonymous tip. This decision is an uplifting step in the right direction. An anonymous tip clearly is not a strong enough lead. How can someone be searched on the basis of a ghost tip? We support the court in its decision to reinforce individual rights. We hope this decision will help ensure that our individual rights continue to exist.