OU should expand Bobcat Cash to entire Uptown

            Ohio University is debating the merits of allowing Bobcat Cash to be used in the university-owned Athena Theater when it reopens this winter. The convenience of this service would be a great benefit to students and should be extended to other Uptown businesses.

Bobcat Cash is a pre-paid debit card attached to the back of a student's ID card. Currently, students can use this service only on campus to purchase groceries, buy snacks and pay to use washers and dryers.

Parents and students can add money to their account at any time by giving cash or a check to the OU Housing office in Chubb Hall.

            In the past, OU encouraged students to attend events at the Athena as an alternative to weekend parties. It would make niche programming more effective and efficient if students did not have to stop at a bank on the way. In addition, many parents fill their children's Bobcat Cash accounts at the beginning of each quarter. To students, this would be akin to viewing a movie for free because they would not be paying with cash.

            For years, OU students have been asking the university to implement a system similar to Ohio State University's Buck•I•D, where both on- and off-campus retailers accept a university-controlled debit card. Students in Columbus can use their Buck•I•D cards instead of cash at eateries such as Wendy's, Papa John's and BW-3.

Bobcat Cash is the perfect beginner's debit card; unlike checks, students can never overdraw their accounts. People instantly can see how much money remains in their account whenever they make a purchase because the debit system is hard-wired throughout OU.

The one hurdle to installing the Bobcat Cash system Uptown has been cleared. By using phone lines, retailers can tie into the OU computer system. Unfortunately, the phone lines might not allow students to view their account balance instantly.

Communication Network Services needs to create a way for students to check the status of their accounts, either online or by phone. This would eliminate any confusion Uptown and would be useful for students who do not use their Bobcat Cards often, but want to track their finances.

Adding China to WTO a good idea

            After a 15-year effort, the World Trade Organization began Tuesday to incorporate China into the worldwide commerce group. Though many people question China playing a larger global role, it is the right time for the WTO to welcome China.

            China's membership is based on economic issues, not its political or social environment, which has received criticism in the past for neglecting human rights. The slumping world market needs a boost. Countries and corporations are eager to showcase their products to China's 1.26 billion potentially active global consumers.

            Encouraging commerce in China would stimulate its economy, which might help capitalism strengthen its foothold in the country. Increased economic freedom might pave the way for a more democratic government.

Extending a WTO membership to China shows the world is demonstrating its confidence in another member of the world community. This confidence could carry into the arena of diplomatic relations. If WTO countries trust China as a trading partner, perhaps these countries will normalize diplomatic relations with the country and form political alliances as well as economic ties.