THE ISSUE: The Kentucky Supreme Court has selected nine counties to try a plan that would allow some misdemeanor offenders to post bail immediately instead of going to jail.

OUR VIEW: The plan, which could save Kentucky $150 million, is a good solution to several of the state’s problems and should be considered for statewide implementation later next year.

 
THE ISSUE: Faculty members will discuss a proposal that calls for changing SITE evaluations at the University Senate meeting on Thursday.
OUR VIEW: The current system of evaluating professors is ineffective and the senate should consider a drastic overhaul that would be more beneficial to the faculty.
It’s a practice that’s become as commonplace as tests, quizzes [...]

Dear football search committee members,

With Head Coach David Elson gone after this season, your committee has a chance to inject some much needed enthusiasm into Western football by selecting a new head coach. This will by no means be an easy task. The team is mired in a losing streak that dates back to last year and fan support for the program has hit a new low. To help ensure that Western finds the right man for the job, the Herald would like to offer its suggestions on what to look for in Elson’s replacement.

THE ISSUE: Gov. Steve Beshear wants a slots bill pushed through the state legislature in January following an Ohio referendum that would allow casinos in four cities.
OUR VIEW: With the added pressure from surrounding states and a budget that’s in shambles, Kentucky’s legislators should begin working on a slots bill now so it can pass [...]

The issue: Alumni will return to Western’s campus this weekend to participate in Homecoming activities.
Our view: While they’re here, the alumni should share any concerns they have with administrators about the state of Western’s football and tailgating situation.
Western’s lack of success on the football field this season has had several consequences.
A lack of respect from [...]

THE ISSUE: During his visit to Western last week, astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson explained that the United States is falling behind the rest of the world in scientific advancement.
OUR VIEW: Western officials must continue to pursue the grants necessary to fund scientific research if they hope to elevate the university’s national profile.
The last time America [...]

The issue: Bowling Green officials have asked trick-or-treaters to be off the street by 7 p.m. on Halloween.
Our view: Trying to make Halloween safer for children is a noble effort, but the city has gone too far by installing a superficial curfew on trick-or-treaters.
Halloween is supposed to be a night filled with crazy costumes, [...]

THE ISSUE: Some Western faculty and staff members have organized a petition protesting the raises of some administrators, which the Board of Regents will vote on this Friday.
OUR VIEW: After urging prudence in the wake of a 4-percent budget cut, President Gary Ransdell is sending the wrong message by approving raises for some [...]

The issue: A program at the University of Kentucky would give financial incentives to property owners who rent to students and create a “seal of approval” for off-campus housing.
Our view: Western officials should consider adopting a similar program to help alleviate the campus housing crisis and promote safe off-campus living options for students.
It may not [...]

THE ISSUE: Students’ bicycles can now be ticketed and locked up under the conditions of Western’s new bicycle parking policy.

OUR VIEW: By ticketing bikes, Western appears more concerned with making money than encouraging students to help alleviate the parking crisis.