The winners and the losers

Loser: A number of tragic deaths nationwide in recent years were related to alcohol consumption by pledges to fraternities and sororities. These led to a sobering change of habits among many such organizations. Apparently, that trend didn't make it to Utah State University's Sigma Nu Fraternity and Chi Omega Sorority. Recently released reports of the shocking death of 18-year-old Michael Starks, a pledge, showed his blood-alcohol content was four times the legal driving limit when he died in his sleep. The university has suspended the organizations indefinitely, which was the right thing to do.

Winner: It may have a bit of a "big brother" feel to it, but the Davis County Board of Health has the right idea with its pilot program to track auto emissions. The board will place a computer chip in a few vehicle engines that will monitor emissions and notify the county when they no longer comply with county standards. The vehicles' owners then will be sent a notice to fix the problem. Some drivers may not like the idea of a government monitor riding with them wherever they go, but this plan seems a lot more efficient, and good for the air, than one that requires people to test their cars every year or two, regardless of need.

Winner: When the Utah Transit Authority decides not to raise fares, that seldom generates a lot of news or attention. Too bad. We think the decision this week to delay a Jan. 1 fare hike on TRAX and bus tickets is worthy of attention and praise. UTA general manager John Inglish said the decision was made in light of the struggling economy. The fare hikes, already approved by the UTA Board of Trustees, won't take effect until at least March. We assume even that decision will depend on how well the economy is doing by then.