Tuesday COLLEGIATETIMES

101st Year, No. 58 ▪ Blacksburg, ▪ December 9, 2003 An independent student-run newspaper serving the community since 1903 www.collegiatetimes.com Insurance woes dampen spirits Fall keynote by Tiffany Hoffman “The health insurance changed for every- loopholes for something like serious financial Managing Editor one,” Gjata said. “And everyone knew, except hardships. However, no such loopholes were speakers set they didn’t send any letter to let me know it found. According to section 125 of the IRS changed. When it changed, I started paying code, if Gjata’s case is considered and her For many people in Blacksburg, $70 isn’t the for (my husband and my daughter) with $70 I appeal is accepted, it could in turn jeopardize by Aaron Blackwell Tech mathematics professor difference between having heat and having need to pay for energy and water.” the no-tax premium all state employees with Associated News Editor Ezra “Bud” Brown will be the presents to give at Christmastime. Right now, Gjata said she was on sick leave for five health insurance appreciate. keynote speaker at the under- as students focus on finals, their major con- months, during which time the plan changed. “It is $99 for COVA Care,” King said. “And graduate ceremony. cerns are passing grades — not water bills. But Since that time, she has filed for an appeal, but it’s a big advantage not to pay taxes (on health Virginia Tech will hold its Brown has been a faculty for Hava Gjata, a housekeeper in Derring Hall, according to the state department of human insurance). The IRS set this up as an advantage 2003 Fall Commencement cer- member at Tech since 1969 Christmas is an afterthought to be considered resource management, nothing that can be for group health plans, but they can make the emonies Dec. 19. This will be and said he looks forward to once she divides her money between house done. employer drop the plan.” the first time undergraduate speaking at commencement. payments, basic ultilities and doctor’s bills for “You can make changes in your type of King said the agency director makes the and graduate fall ceremonies “It’s a great honor,” Brown her poor health and asthmatic difficulties. membership during open enrollment or when decision whether or not to grant an appeal, have been held on the same said. He said he welcomes Gjata is concerned because $71 is being you have a qualifying mid-year event,” said but it’s not very likely. day. the opportunity to be in the deducted each month from her paycheck that William King, senior health benefits specialist. “If the agency director denies her request, it Budget constraints and the company of other great com- she said should not be taken. “And eligibility for Medicaid is a qualifying can be taken to a higher level,” King said. event’s close proximity to the mencement speakers — Bud Both Gjata’s husband and her daughter are event, but (a person) must apply for change The open enrollment period is a one-month holidays caused the ceremo- Robertson, Tony Distler and covered by Medicaid in addition to Gjata’s within 31 days. (With Gjata), it was several time period where policy holders can make nies to be moved to the same Lucinda Roy. insurance from Virginia Tech. However, Gjata months.” any changes to their plans. Outside of that day, said Ed Henneke, chair of “These are people that I said she should only be paying $28 for her per- King said he approached the associate the university commencement sonal coverage — not for their’s too. director of policy and asked if there were any See SPIRITS, page 2 committee. See KEYNOTE, page 2 Greek council holds charity event for children

by Ellen Biltz ness management double major. News Assistant “It just makes (the children’s) hearts that much lighter.” Activities for the occasion For many, the holiday season include a visit from Santa Claus. is a time for joy, but for some “A member of the NPHC will families in Blacksburg, it is a time be dressing up as Santa and will when need shines through. come see the kids,” Vanloo said. The National Pan-Hellenic There was a toy drive done by Council at Virginia Tech will be the council last month so the chil- hosting a Christmas party tonight dren could receive toys. Fourteen to help the under- toys were collected privileged children at the drive and of Blacksburg. NPHC will be pro- “We wanted “ If it wasnʼt for viding the remain- ANNEBELLE OMBAC/SPPS to do something the party, some of der so that each Tank (left) and his bodyguard were part of the Rockafella hip hop concert that played at Burruss Hall on Saturday. for the local com- the kids wouldnʼt child will receive a munity,” said gift. The toys will The Young Gunz showed up too late for the concert, and promoters of the event are filing charges. Monique Vanloo, see a Christmas. It be handed out as NPHC special just makes (the chil- part of Santa’s fes- events chair and drenʼs) hearts that tivities. a senior interdis- “I think the party Show promoter to fi le charges ciplinary studies much lighter.” is really important major. because it’s great The party Tavaris McCoy just to see the smile transportation and performance fees for the artists to appear. will be held in on their faces,” ▪ G-Town Entertainment said they followed NPHC President According to Hamden, G-Town Entertainment, the company Old Dominion McCoy said. the contract, and they could not guarantee responsible for providing the artists, did not live up to their Ballroom in A face painter what time the artists, the Young Gunz, would end of the contractual agreement between the two compa- Squires Student will be providing nies. Center at 7 p.m. tonight. entertainment, posing as “Santa’s arrive in Blacksburg because of bad weather Hamden said the duo known as Young Gunz was initially The event will cater to about little helper.” The painter will also supposed to leave Philadelphia on Saturday morning, but 27-30 children. Parents of the be doing caricature pictures for by Eliot Kriviski almost two feet of snow prevented the artists from depart- children are invited to attend the the kids. Games and balloons will Features Editor ing until later. Hamden said he then arranged for a tour bus party along with the members be provided, along with food and to leave Philadelphia at 12:30 p.m., so that the artists would of NPHC. All families were cho- drinks for the families. arrive at Blacksburg at 7:30 p.m., and postponed the concert sen from low-income housing in The party is an annual event the Moe Hamden, owner of Ascension Entertainment, said in order to allow the artists time to arrive and to complete a Blacksburg. council holds. he plans to file a civil suit against G-Town Entertainment, sound check. However, the artists did not arrive until 11:15 “If it wasn’t for the party, “We’ve done this as long as because he said the booking company is the reason he had p.m., said Hamden, who had just announced he had to cancel some of the kids wouldn’t see a I’ve been here and I think it to cancel the appearance of Young Gunz at Saturday night’s the Young Gunz act just minutes before. Christmas,” said NHPC President just gives the less fortunate a concert in Burruss Hall Auditorium. Tarvaris McCoy, a junior business place to come together,” McCoy Ascension Entertainment is responsible for handling See CHARGES, page 3 information technology and busi- said. Gov. Warner to visit Santa’s got a brand new sleigh Blacksburg next week by Christina Peña Warner’s tax plan through the news, includ- News Assistant ing that some state Republicans are against it. Warner’s tax plan claims to make the tax Gov. Mark Warner will visit the system more fair, meet Virginia’s constitu- Montgomery County Chamber of tional commitment to provide quality public Commerce on Monday, Dec. 15, to discuss education and protect the Commonwealth’s his new tax plan. fiscal integrity, according to Warner’s web- Warner is touring the state to discuss site. the plan, and he asked the Chamber Warner stated that working families of Commerce to sponsor his visit to pay more taxes than they should, and his Montgomery County. new plan would cut taxes for 65 percent of Warner plans to stay at the Event Centre Virginians, especially the working class. from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. There is also a pos- He plans to accomplish this tax cut sible question-and-answer period at the end by lowering the income tax for “most of the presentation, Adams said. Virginians,” reducing the food tax by 1.5 Invitations were extended to 11 of the cents, increasing the sales tax by one cent, members of the Chamber of Commerce, closing corporate loopholes and increasing which is mainly made up of businesses. Virginia’s well-known low cigarette tax to “We are always honored to have the pay for healthcare needs. governor visit our area, but it doesn’t nec- According to Warner’s website, he also essarily mean we’re going to agree with his plans to complete the abolition of the car tax plan,” Adams said. “But we’re always tax first proposed by his predecessor Jim JAMES LANG/SPPS pleased to give our members a chance to Gilmore in 1997, end the estate tax for farms hear him.” Santa Claus made an appearance at the annual Blacksburg Christmas Parade, held Saturday. The Adams said he had only heard about See WARNER, page 3 event was originally scheduled for Friday, but was postponed because of inclement weather. Page 2 Collegiate Times Tuesday, December 9, 2003 News in Brief Spirits: Insurance law not Keynote: Suspect sought in nation, a dramatic move that Ceremonies assault outside of could cement Dean’s position in the fight for the party’s always clear, lawyer says Slusher Wing nod. both held Gore, who lost to President Continued from page 1 Benefits,” to all state employees, happens is all their responsibil- (CT) — The Virginia Tech Bush in the disputed 2000 but when the state cut taxes they ity. Your obligation is to read it, on same day Police Department is looking election, has agreed to endorse timeline, there are certain mid- sent them only to agency’s ben- follow it and ask questions if you for a suspect in an assault that Dean in Harlem in New York year events specified in section efits office. don’t understand it.” Continued from page 1 took place Friday night outside City on Tuesday and then 125 that may result in an imme- “We made it clear they have Robertson said little booklets Slusher Wing. travel with the former Vermont diate change. However, this only to mail (open enrollment infor- are required by law to be sent have the absolute highest regard A female student told police governor to Iowa, sight of the happens if the information is mation) to (employees’) home to all employees, but they’re not for — to be in that number is a that a white male, 5 feet 10 Jan. 19 caucuses which kickoff submitted in the allotted time address,” King said. always easy to understand. real honor,” Brown said. inches tall and of medium the nominating process, said — for most places, 31 days. Though there is no way to “There’s little about insurance His main point during his build, tackled her and fondled a Democratic source close to “State personnel are very ada- prove whether or not Gjata law I find to be logical or favor- speech is something he calls her in the area between Slusher Gore. mant about the 31-day change,” received the information, King able to the average person,” “Rule Zero,” Brown said. It Wing and Main Campbell Hall The source, who spoke on said Douglas Martin, senior said they maintain confidence Robertson said. means that if someone wants around 10 p.m., said Capt. condition of anonymity, said human resources manager at in the Tech benefits office. King said he sympathized to accomplish something, it Robert Baudo. Dean will return from Iowa Tech. “They won’t let us make However, even if Gjata did with Gjata and said her type of must first mean something to The student was returning in time for Tuesday night’s a change outside of open enroll- receive the information, attorney situation is not unique, however, that person. “Indifference just to her residence when the sus- Democratic debate in New ment.” John Robertson said citizens he knows of little that could be doesn’t cut it,” he said. pect allegedly approached her Hampshire. Martin said the department reading over policy information changed. Brown said graduates should and began talking to her. She sent two e-mails to employees, are at a loss. “We’re not in a system that not take life so seriously and ignored him and started to walk mailed hard copies to employ- “The problem with insur- allows much change to be should be kind to everyone away when the suspect knocked Survey estimates ees’ homes and put information ance law is there are only two made,” Martin said. “As much since everyone is working to be her to the ground and fondled 61,000 executions in the Spectrum newsletter to entities that really understand as I’d like to allow it, we just successful. her, she told police. let people know about the open it — insurance companies and don’t have the mechanism to “The purpose of this address The alleged victim said she BAGHDAD, Iraq (AP) enrollment period. insurance lawyers,” Robertson do that. There’s always going to is to affirm that (students) did a kicked and slapped at the sus- — Saddam Hussein’s govern- King said the state also used said. “There needs to be explicit be someone along the way that great job and to tell parents that pect until she broke free, then ment may have executed 61,000 to send a booklet, “Spotlight on information that anything that doesn’t realize it’s urgent.” (the faculty) took care of their she ran into Slusher Wing, Baghdad residents, a number kids,” Brown said. Baudo said. significantly higher than pre- Walter Rugaber, Tech The suspect was wearing viously believed, according to presidential fellow and former baggy jeans and a red ski jacket, a survey obtained Monday by Knife, blood found in suspect’s car president and publisher of the Baudo said. The Associated Press. Roanoke Times, will be the The student said she did not The bloodiest massacres of keynote speaker at the gradu- know the suspect, but thought Saddam’s 23-year presidency by Dave Kolpack and Curt Woodwar 22 after she left her job at a Victoria’s Secret at the ate ceremony. He moved to the she might have seen him around occurred in Iraq’s Kurdish Associated Press Grand Forks mall. Roanoke Times in 1982 after hav- campus before, Baudo said. north and Shiite Muslim Alfonso Rodriguez Jr., 50, has been charged with ing worked at other newspapers Anyone with information south, but the Gallup Baghdad GRAND FORKS, N.D. — A knife and blood kidnapping Sjodin. Evidence in the case, which was including the Greensboro Daily should call Tech police at 231- Survey data indicates the bru- matching Dru Sjodin’s type were found in sealed by a judge after Rodriguez’s arrest, should be News & Record and the New 6411. tality extended strongly into the car belonging to the man accused of kid- released on Tuesday, the source said. York Times’ Detroit, Washington the capital as well. napping the University of North Dakota stu- Rodriguez’s maroon, four-door 2002 and Atlanta bureaus. The survey, which the poll- dent, a source told The Associated Press on Mercury Sable was impounded by authori- In 2001, he was named one Sources: Gore to ing firm planned to release on Monday. ties before his Dec. 1 arrest in Crookston, of the Roanoke Valley’s 50 most endorose Dean Tuesday, asked 1,178 Baghdad The source close to the investigation told the AP Minn. influential people. residents in August and about the knife discovery in the car’s trunk and also Rodriguez is a convicted rapist who has a history Both commencements will MANCHESTER, N.H. (AP) September whether a member confirmed earlier media reports about the blood and of attempted kidnapping with adult women, and has be held at , — Former Vice President of their household had been a knife sheath being found in the parking lot of the used a weapon in at least one assault. He was reg- with the undergraduate cer- Al Gore intends to endorse executed by Saddam’s regime. mall where Sjodin disappeared. istered as a predatory offender, the classification for emony starting at 11 a.m. and Howard Dean for the According to Gallup, 6.6 per- Sjodin, 22, of Pequot Lakes, Minn., was last heard those believed to be at the highest risk of committing the graduate ceremony begin- Democratic presidential nomi- cent said yes. talking to her boyfriend on a cell phone on Nov. another sex crime. ning at 3 p.m.

STOCK MARKET REPORT TODAY TONIGHT WEDNESDAY WEDNESDAY NIGHT THURSDAY FRIDAY — 12/08/2003 —

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S&P 500 1069.30 7.80 Highs: 34˚– 49˚ Lows: 36˚– 40˚ Highs: 33˚– 49˚ Lows: 29˚– 33˚ 25˚/44˚ 22˚/44˚ Tuesday, December 9, 2003 Collegiate Times Page 3 Malvo believed he Charges: Artists were bussed to Blacksburg Continued from page 1 Hamden two options: Either they could error in taking legal action against G-Town postpone the show until Sunday, allowing Entertainment, and not only will Hamden would be killed “I have no clue what took them 11 hours the artists enough time to travel safely; or be facing opposition from his company, to get here,” Hamden said. “(G-Town they could go ahead and put the artists on but from the managers of the artists and by Matthew Barakat greater good of freeing oppressed Entertainment’s) job was to make sure the road and try to get them there in time different entities as well. Associated Press people,” Cornell said. that they were here at 7:30.” for the concert. “He is in the wrong,” Powell said That mirrored Malvo’s indoc- During his announcement, Hamden “Had it been a clear day Hamden plans to file trination under Muhammad, also said that everyone would be fully weather-wise, we wouldn’t a civil suit in the days to CHESAPEAKE — Lee Boyd who taught his protege that reimbursed for any ticket purchases made, be having this problem,” Had it been a come. Malvo believed his adop- black Americans were the chosen and that everyone was welcome to stay Powell said. “We could “ “We feel confident tive father figure John Allen people of God, but oppressed by and watch the performance of the other have easily moved it to clear day weather- to leave the case in Muhammad would kill him if a white government in America, headlining artist, Tank, for free. Sunday, to make sure that wise, we wouldnʼt be Montgomery County,” he ever deviated from the plan defense attorneys have said. Yet, Wesley Powell, president of G- the roads were safe and having this problem.” Hamden said. in last year’s sniper spree, a While the film did not control Town Entertainment stated that, “We did clear.” In regards to refunds, psychologist testified Monday at Malvo’s actions, it influenced live up to our contract, all the artists were According to Powell, the situation is still cur- Malvo’s trial. them, Cornell said. there.” who also provided R&B Wesley Powell rently being worked Muhammad’s two rules for “There is compelling evidence According to Powell, there was no agree- artist Tank, once the artists president, G-Town out between Ascension the pair’s mission were “what- that exposure to entertainment ment between Ascension Entertainment arrived at the venue, they Entertainment Entertainment and the ever it takes” and “no turning violence desensitizes people to and G-Town Entertainment guaranteeing were told that they were University Unions and back,” said Dewey Cornell, a violence, makes it seem more that the artists would arrive there by a not going to get paid for Student Activities, said University of Virginia psycholo- rational,” he said. specific date because of the severe weath- their appearance. Nate Howe, assistant gist who interviewed Malvo more Muhammad never fully er system of snow storms that hit the East “The artists were misled into thinking ticket office manager for the Squires Ticket than 20 times after his arrest. revealed his mission to Malvo, but Coast over the weekend. that they were going to be paid, which, Office, who also said that because tickets Muhammad often told Malvo certain elements of it were clear: Powell said that when the tour bus according to the contract, should be done were sold through multiple vendors that that Malvo should shoot and kill Muhammad wanted to regain the artists, Young Gunz, were originally an hour ahead of time,” Powell said. the refunds might take a few days to pro- Muhammad if he ever strayed custody of his three children, who supposed to take was canceled, he gave Powell said that Hamden is making an cess. from the mission. Malvo assumed were living with Muhammad’s the same would happen to him if ex-wife in the Washington, D.C., he deviated. suburbs; Muhammad wanted “He viewed it as deadly serious money from the U.S. government that there was no turning back on that would fund his vision of a this mission,” Cornell said. new utopian society, in which 70 Malvo’s lawyers are trying boys and 70 girls of all nations to convince the jury in Malvo’s and races would gather in a capital murder trial that he was compound, possibly in Canada under the sway of sniper mas- or Ghana, and be taught to live termind Muhammad, rendering in peace and harmony; and that him insane. Muhammad and Malvo would be Cornell also testified about at the vanguard of a revolution. Malvo’s intense interest in the “Lee came to believe there film “The Matrix,” which he could be a revolution if he fol- watched more than 100 times. lowed John Muhammad’s teach- Cornell said the movie influenced ings,” Cornell said. Malvo’s behavior, as did violent The Sept. 11, 2001, attacks video games played by the pair were a bellwether of the revolu- including “Halo” and “Rainbow tion against the U.S. government, Six.” Muhammad told Malvo, accord- The judge allowed the jury to ing to Cornell’s testimony. see a short, violent clip of the film, If the two were ever arrested, despite prosecutors’ objection that Malvo had been instructed to the clip was out of context and “self-destruct” and “allow him- irrelevant to Malvo’s case. Jurors self to be martyred in the hopes also saw video-game clips. it would spare John Muhammad. Cornell said the film “seemed He was to take full responsibility to represent the situation (Malvo) for the crimes,” Cornell said. was in,” or at least how Malvo Malvo confessed to pulling the viewed his situation, with a trigger in all the shootings during hero specifically chosen by an last year’s spree in metropolitan African-American father figure Washington, which left 10 people to lead a revolution against dead over a three-week span. “an evil government ... that has But Malvo’s lawyers have people oppressed to the point contended the confession was where they don’t even know bogus, that it was Malvo’s way they’re oppressed. There’s sort of of protecting the man he saw as a rampage of violence ... for the his father. Warner: New tax bill will be addressed Continued from page 1 which has been held for 65 years — longer than any other and family-owned businesses, state — thanks to his new tax end the accelerated sales tax plan. Virginia has a tradition collection for retailers, provide of conservative fiscal manage- incentives for small businesses ment, according to Warner’s to invest, ease taxes on military website. families and streamline the col- Virginia faces a $1.2 billion lection of the state sales tax. deficit in the next two-year “I believe with all of my budget, even though no new heart that the Commonwealth programs have been added. of Opportunity plan is the right The costs of necessary pro- thing to do for the people who grams like Medicaid and the pay the bills,” Warner said on prison system are also expected his website. to rise. Warner stated that Virginia Required spending is expect- has not sufficiently invested in ed to exceed the projected public education, leaving the revenue through the end of the local government responsible. decade, even with budget cuts. Also, he claims more students “I believe Virginians are entering the Virginia school want their elected leaders in system at all levels, and his tax Richmond to solve problems plan promises to alleviate both instead of passing them on to problems. future governors and future Warner also plans to protect generations,” Warner said on Virginia’s AAA-bond rating, his website. Page 4 Collegiate Times Tuesday, December 9, 2003 Congress approves anti-spam legislation U.S. soldier, Iraqi by Ted Bridis The bill was among the farthest-reach- Internet regulatory schemes we’ve seen,” Associated Press ing Internet measures approved during said Alan Davidson of the Washington- the Bush administration, which has large- based Center for Democracy and policeman killed WASHINGTON — Congress on ly continued the Clinton administration’s Technology. Although he criticized parts Monday approved the first national effort hands-off approach toward regulating of the anti-spam bill, he said consumer by Christopher Torchia wounded when a bomb exploded to stem the flood of unwanted e-mail America’s technology industry. frustration was driving lawmakers. Associated Press as their patrol passed, a U.S. mili- pitches offering prescription drugs, cheap The last such major legislation was a “Most people are going to be glad this tary spokesperson said on condi- loans and other come-ons. 1998 law banning Web sites from collect- bill is heading to the president soon,” he tion of anonymity. President Bush has indicated he intends ing personal information from children said. BAGHDAD, Iraq — Insurgents On Sunday, a soldier was killed to sign the measure into law. Indeed the under 13. Some critics said the bill didn’t go shot and killed a U.S. soldier and two others were injured when White House revamped its own e-mail The anti-spam bill encourages the far enough to discourage unwanted e- guarding a gas station Monday in insurgents detonated a roadside system this summer over a flood of so- Federal Trade Commission to create a mails. The Coalition Against Unsolicited northern Iraq, and an Iraqi police- bomb in Mosul. The killing came called spam. do-not-spam list of e-mail addresses and Commercial E-mails called the con- man died trying to defuse a bomb, one day after another soldier from Clogged inboxes have become a leading includes penalties for spammers of up to gressional effort “really disappoint- the U.S. military said. the same division was killed and irritation among Internet users, an increas- five years in prison in rare circumstances. ing.” The group prefers a law requir- The attack on the soldier from two others were injured when ing business expense for companies and The Senate previously voted 97-0 to ing marketers to obtain someone’s the U.S. Army’s 101st Airborne insurgents detonated a roadside a popular target for Washington interest approve the bill. permission before sending them any Division took place in Mosul, 250 bomb in Mosul. before an election year. The legislation would prohibit send- e-mails. miles north of Baghdad, Brig. Gen. Iraqi police in Baqouba, 35 miles The House voted without dissent to ers of unsolicited commercial e-mail It said the alternative method of con- Mark Kimmitt said in Baghdad. north of Baghdad, discovered an approve slight changes Senate lawmakers from disguising their identity by using sumers asking marketers not to send them “Four Iraqi males traveling in explosive device near the govern- made to the “can spam” legislation, which a false return address or misleading any more messages hasn’t worked. vehicles stopped approximately ment building, Kimmitt said. A would outlaw the shadiest techniques subject line. “What Congress is effectively doing 50 meters (yards) from a gas sta- member of the police bomb squad used by the Internet’s most prolific e-mail- It also would prohibit senders from is ignoring these laws that haven’t tion in Mosul and opened fire tried to defuse the bomb, but it ers, who send tens of millions of messages harvesting addresses off Web sites worked everywhere else they’ve tried,” on coalition soldiers guarding exploded and killed him. each day. and require such e-mails to include said the group’s spokesman, John the station,” Kimmitt said. “One Kimmitt said there were 18 The bill would supplant tougher anti- a mechanism so recipients could Mozena. coalition soldier died of gunshot engagements between Iraqi guer- spam laws already passed in some states, indicate they did not want future mass “This bill fails the most basic tests for wounds in that attack.” rillas and U.S.-led coalition forces including a California law that takes effect mailings. anti-spam legislation; it doesn’t tell any- Hours after the killing, three in the past week, a marked decline Jan. 1. “This is one of the more sweeping body not to spam.” U.S. soldiers in Mosul were over previous weeks.

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EDITOR IN CHIEF EDITORIAL BOARD JEREMY DOEHNERT Jeremy Doehnert, Tiffany Hoffman, MANAGING EDITORS A.J. Mandracchia, Eliot Kriviski, TIFFANY HOFFMAN Rajan Nanavati, Kumar Malhotra, A.J. MANDRACCHIA Robert Drake, Eleanor Hopson, OPINIONS EDITOR KATE LYNCH Kate Lynch, Bryan Nieder OPINIONS EDITORIAL ASSISTANT COMMENTARY& BRYAN NIEDER Editorial Letters to the Editor NATIONAL ISSUE United States has Insurance industry New bill will help curb spam e-mail right to defend has too much power Congress approved a bill yesterday that would curb spam e-mail, which floods computers on a daily basis. The legislation, which President George W. Bush intends itself and ideals After reading the column, “Insurance companies to sign, will not abolish mass mailings, but prohibit some aspects of junk mail. must help in fighting obesity” (CT, Dec. 5), I concluded For example, the bill will forbid senders of unsolicited commercial e-mail from Why does being a superpower exclude you that perhaps the author should reexamine what role concealing their identity with a false return address or misleading subject line. It also from the right of defending yourself? insurance companies play in our society. prohibits the senders from obtaining addresses off of Web sites. Must we wait for another strike against us The primary purpose of an insurance company While this bill does not keep junk mail from entering the e-mail system, it will to bring justice to those who defy Islam in the is to provide relief from a catastrophic loss, usually extend an appropriate amount in stemming false representation in online mailings. A name of Allah? monetary.In recent times, however, insurance compa- bill with greater breadth would infringe on rights of advertisers. Does a sovereign nation not have the right nies have gained unprecedented power in our society The Coalition Against Unsolicited Commercial E-mails said the government should to defend itself against any threat it deems as a result of changing political policy. This effect has enact a law requiring marketers to obtain someone’s permission before sending e- legitimate? been granting insurance companies powers equal to a mails. Its main criticism is that the current system of consumers asking marketers to As the most powerful nation in the world, we level of government. desist mass e-mails is not effective. The coalition’s proposal takes it to an extreme. are subject to attacks from the most cowardly Insurance companies force policy in our society by E-mail delivery involves the sender and receiver. Using e-mail, much like a televi- people on this planet. refusing insurance to an individual or company for not sion or telephone, one must be aware of the potential for commercial activity. E-mail Our government has one duty, and that is to following its rules, which are based on its profit margin is a viable medium for advertising and the main difference between online mailings protect the citizens that vote, pay taxes and live and perceived financial risk. Forcing insurance com- and a television commercial has been false representations. in this country. pany policy on individuals strips away our personal An e-mail with a subject reading, “Hey friend!” that advertises penis enlargement If doing this compromises the liberties of the freedoms. pills does not convey the advertiser’s true intentions. spineless cowards who attack a building that A specific example would be the sport of springboard holds Americans, as well as the Muslims they diving. If one looks at specific cities, most diving boards die in the name of, then what is a good reason in cities have been removed from residential swimming to fight? pools, apartment complexes and public pools. The It is very easy to attack our president because usual reason is the insurance company will double or Separation of church you disagree with war. triple the premium if the diving board is retained. However, when a country is attacked, espe- Should the policies of the insurance industry force cially for such a poor reason as the explanation the ban of a sport? Do we really want a corporation for Sept. 11, then it is not only justified, but it is managing our health or running our lives? and state is impossible necessary for us not only to strike quicker, but I work for a medical laboratory in a large city and harder. our company recently lost its group health insurance This country guarantees nothing but the because of a few employees who have medical condi- tual, emotional or other implications that opportunity to succeed, and any person, group tions. Now our laboratory has been blacklisted by the Jordan Green brought them together? or nation that threatens that guarantee deserves insurance companies and can no longer afford to pur- The law that makes the contract of no protection, no second look and no pity. chase group insurance. marriage legally binding would not exist That country deserves the full wrath of the A better solution than giving more control to the The column “Homophobic Christians if there were no reason to get married. U.S. military and every bomb, tank and soldier insurance industry in healthcare is to eliminate it from quick to condemn homosexuality” (CT, Marriage is synonymous with love, and that we bring to the table. the equation totally. It is a middleman and drives the Dec. 5) shows that the author obviously marriage without love serves no pur- Do not object to a war whose purpose is to costs of health care up. The money lost in bureaucratic does not know Christianity or govern- pose. protect the people that oppose it. red tape could be used to pay for the healthcare of mil- ment. I don’t claim to be an authority on Christianity proves homosexuality to God bless America. lions of uninsured people and be used for preventative homosexuality, but I do know the values be immoral. If homosexuality is immoral, education, such as programs to combat obesity. of Christianity. then their love is immoral, and a marriage Colin Hauck No, real Christians do not skip over the between them would serve no purpose. sophomore, political science major Scott Jones parts in the Bible about lying and adul- There are things science still tery; real Christians know what sin is. No can’t explain today. The American Christian is perfect, but they do know Psychological Association uses a scientific what sin is and should strive to avoid it. structure of analysis. According to current Kosher dietary laws pertain to Judaism, science, (which may be dictated by soci- not Christianity. Christians do not hate ety) homosexuality is not a disease. But, gay people. Christians hate the evil and when homosexuality goes against the sin associated with homosexuality. laws of nature and Christian beliefs of We are a nation based on Christian creation, how can it not be a disease? morals. I laugh at the idea of leaving If the majority of people in America Christianity out of our legal system, claim to be Christian or to have Christian for it was based on Christian morals. morals, same-sex marriage should be ille- Christianity has always been a part of our gal just as a matter of statistics. government. Freedom has always been dictated by Separation of church and state means sets of rules. True freedom would be, in a government cannot interfere with church sense, anarchy. practice. If the majority of the state is part When gays become the majority, then of the church, then we find Christian mor- same-sex marriage won’t seem so immor- als a very real part of the legal system. al to society. However, I will always view I assure you, not all Christians are homosexuality to be immoral. homophobic. Homophobia is the fear of I agree that homosexuals have to face a homosexuals. Just because one does not lot of hatred. I believe society has to stop believe homosexuality to be right does the prejudice and agree on a solution. We not automatically make them homopho- should understand the problem and sup- bic. Even from a non-religious point of port homosexuals in realizing their sin. view, disagreeing with homosexuality is As humans, we always try to place the not homophobia, it is an honest, just and blame on someone else. The straight say it entitled opinion. is the homosexuals’ fault for not blending Being gay does not give one the right in with the rest of society. The homosexu- to diagnose homophobia. Homophobia is als say it is the straight people’s fault for becoming a label that gays use to defend not understanding. I say we are both themselves with a sort of justification for right, we are just so caught up in defend- being singled out. ing our beliefs that we miss the truth. The author was also wrong when he The truth is, straight people don’t want stated, “Marriage is simply a legal con- to help and homosexuals don’t want to tract between two people. Any spiritual, be helped. emotional or other implications may be added by the couple ...” Why would two Jordan Green is a senior people get married if there were no spiri- interdisciplinary studies major.

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The Collegiate Times, a division of the Educational Media Company at Virginia The Collegiate Times can be found online at . Subscription Rates: $65 semester; $80 year. CT Phone Numbers Tech, was established in 1903 by and for the students of Virginia Polytechnic News/Features 231-9865 Institute and State University. The Collegiate Times is published every Tuesday Except where noted, all photographs were taken by the Student Publications © Collegiate Times, December 9, 2003. All rights reserved. Material published in Sports/Opinions 231-9870 through Friday of the academic year except during exams and vacations. The Photo Staff.The Collegiate Times is located in 363 Squires Student Center, the Collegiate Times is the property thereof, and may not be reprinted without the Collegiate Times receives no funding from the university. Blacksburg, Va. 24061. (5 40) 231-9860. Fax (540) 231-5057. express written consent of the Collegiate Times. Editor-in-Chief 231-9867 Page 6 Collegiate Times Tuesday, December 9, 2003 Features Lonestar plays to sold-out Burruss Hall audience ▪ The show was est album, “From There to more marketing management Here: Greatest Hits,” which major. VTU s second sold has 13 songs from previ- Most of the crowd enjoyed out show of the year ous albums and three new the concert, some standing songs. and dancing to the music and most successful The playlist even included or even line dancing in the two Christmas songs to “get aisles. country show to date in the holiday spirit,” accord- “It was fun seeing all the cell ing to lead singer Richie phones in the air and every- by Alison Cordell McDonald. one swaying with each other,” Staff Writer Opening for Lonestar said Kim Hogan, a sopho- wasKyle Davis a singer/ more marketing management Virginia Tech Union songwriter from Richmond. major. hosted its second consecu- He played at Tech last year Lonestar was able to tive sold-out show Friday with SheDaisy, but he has also get the crowd involved when the six-time Grammy- played with musicians such and feel like a part of the nominated country group as John Mayer and Sheryl show. JOCELYN SCHNIEDWIND/SPPS Lonestar played in Burruss Crow. For many songs, includ- Auditorium. “It was amazing. I don’t ing hits such as “From My Lead singer Richie McDonald and the rest of Lonestar brought a sense of humor to the show, The band played 20 songs, know how else to describe and even involved the crowd in their pieces. including songs from its new- it,” said Jen Forman, a sopho- See LONESTAR, page 7

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Continued from page 6 more biology major and such as Lonestar come to Ribbon Club came not Black Student Alliance, the “The drag queens organized VTU member, said the Tech to play was an honor Pan-Hellenic Council, the their show on their own,” said Front Porch Looking In” to Lonestar concert came about and made the three months only from the LGBTA, Residence Hall Federation Wienckowski. a cover of Jimmy Buffett’s after volunteers suggested of hard work to make the but from other student and the Interfraternity The drag queens were from “Margaritaville,” the group trying to have a country concert possible well worth Council. all over the state of Virginia and had the crowd sing along. concert. it. organizations as well “It was ridiculous that it was came on their own to support At one point the band The concert Shanks said only the LGBTA promoting the event. called a few people on was a mark VTU’s success by Jessica Pritchard AIDS awareness when it affects This is the third year stage to help them play of success for They had a great with the past Staff Writer everybody,” said Stephanie Brownlie has spoken for AIDS musical instruments and trying to reach “sense of humor. I two sold-out Fier, a marketing management awareness. sing. Tech’s coun- loved it when they shows is help- major. “When I talk For the song “Little try music ing them accom- The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, “We’re try- to the students, Drummer Boy,” five fans. sang ‘Amazedʼ all plish their Transgender Alliance of ing to get other I talk about how people from the audi- “When the way through and goals. Virginia Tech, along with four groups involved Itʼs not just a gay everyone who is ence went onstage to play compared then replayed it and “Our goal other student organizations, to stress that “ sexually active percussion, piano and to to our most this year (is) to planned Club Red Ribbon AIDS affects manʼs disease is at risk of an sing. recent coun- had us sing along.” present each as part of Aids Awareness everyone.” anymore. Weʼre STD,” Brownlie They were referred to as try concerts, of the major Week. To stress even facing the reality of said. “The Hokie Ensemble” by the Lonestar was Kim Hogan genres of music “The planning started farther that the “Having lost band. by far the to the student sophomore, marketing major back in August,” said Justin LGBTA is for what AIDS really is someone in my “They had a great sense of most success- body of Virginia Wienckowski, a senior com- everyone, not in our world.” family to AIDS, humor,” Hogan said. ful country Tech, Shank puter science major. “There has just lesbians, it’s really impor- “I loved it when they concert in the said. been tons of work on everyone’s gays, bisexuals tant for me to sang ‘Amazed’ all the past two years,” said Jason “Before the year is over, we part.” and transgen- Christine Brownlie speak out.” way through and then Shanks, VTU’s director of plan on producing a large-scale This is the fourth year the ders, two of the The big replayed it and had us sing concerts. rock-n-roll show, a punk rock LGBTA has promoted AIDS three commit- Unitarian Universalist improvement along.” Shanks also said having concert and at least one more awareness. tee members of Minister this year the Becca Ebaugh, a sopho- an award-winning band show.” “This year we have expanded the LGBTA are LGBTA and to AIDS Awareness Week,” straight. other organiza- said Kevin James, the chair of Kicking off AIDS Awareness tions are proud of is more stu- LGBTA and a senior computer Week, the LGBTA hosted an dents are becoming involved. science and political science AIDS panel discussion in “I’m excited how students double major. Squires Student Center on here at Tech are becoming more The primary goal is broaden- Wednesday. supportive,” Brownlie said. ing public awareness outside of Along with Club Red Ribbon “It’s not just a gay man’s dis- just homosexuals. on Friday, they also showed the ease anymore. We’re facing the AIDS is something that movie “Philadelphia,” which reality of what AIDS really is in affects everyone, not just one deals with a man confronting our world.” particular group. his own uncertainties and the The students at Club Red “We need to come together discrimination of homosexual- Ribbon were also glad to see the to fight it,” James said. “We ity. amount of support shown by don’t want to just make the At Club Red Ribbon, free the student body. connection between gays and condoms and information “I’m glad they have the sup- AIDS.” pamphlets on sexually trans- port they need to do this,” said This is the main reason mitted diseases were given Leon Kok, an alumnus of the that the LGBTA has worked out to help increase AIDS class of 1999 in biochemistry. hard to gain more sup- awareness. For more information on AIDS port from other student-run The night’s events included awareness and how you can get organizations. club dancing all night, a drag involved, visit the LGBTA web- This year, they have the queen show and guest speaker site at www.lgbta.org.

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BLACKSBURG SQUARE 1353 S. MAIN STREET Blacksburg, Va 24060 961-0403 Page 8 Collegiate Times Tuesday, December 9, 2003 Media, insecurities play role in disorders

Today’s Crossword ▪ Eating disorders not thin or muscular models.” four females with anorexia, one es are limited, those available “Media definitely plays a male also has it, and for every provide information, assessment, only affect women, role,” said Christine Dennis, the eight females suffering from buli- short-term treatment for milder but also a growing counseling and advocacy coordi- mia, one male suffers, according eating disorders and referral to nator for the Women’s Center. “It to Anorexia Nervosa and Related sources of off-campus support. number of men are is impossible to achieve media’s Eating Disorders, Inc. Male eating Klein said Cook Counseling diagnosed each year ideals.” disorders have increased, mainly Center tries to see patients on To form an eating disorder, due to athletic pressures and a weekly basis but finds it very though, other components are media influence. difficult with the volume of by Anne-Henley Beck usually the trigger. Low self- “Males are starting to pay other students needing assis- Staff Writer esteem, lack of control and attention to the media,” Klein tance, especially in the months depression are main psychologi- said, “And the media is chang- of October and November. The Sitting atop the doctor’s bench, cal factors. In addition, problems ing the perceptions of acceptable Center has only one psychiatrist the words pierced her ears, sting- with family and friends and sex- male body shape.” available for patients that may ing her eyes as the tears trickled ual and emotional abuse can also Unfortunately, many patients need medication. Schiffert Health down her face. She knew what be factors in forming eating dis- deny they have a problem. For Center has one part-time dieti- the doctor said was true. orders, according to the National this reason, most visitors to cian to help with concerns and At 5 feet 5 inches, she weighed Eating Disorder Association. resources available on campus questions a recovering person 98 pounds, and was diagnosed as “Nobody really knows why are the friends of those suffering may have. anorexic. people develop eating disor- from an eating disorder, Dennis “We have basic resources avail- It started innocently enough, ders,” said Rita said. able on-campus,” Dennis said, by being careful of what she Klein, a psy- “One of “But not enough to treat someone ate, but slowly it progressed to chologist at the The role of a the things, as with a serious condition of an eat- eating nothing but a handful Cook Counseling “ a friend, is to ing disorder.” of carrots and an apple, if that. Center. “Some friend is to be there become edu- The Women’s Center does not Eating anything more, she felt patients come for the person. A lot cated,” Dennis see patients on an on-going basis, stuffed and fat. She often came in and say, ‘I said. “It’s not as but it has worked with other on- up with excuses for not eating, know I shouldn’t of times we want to simple as just campus organizations to inform and if forced to eat she’d pick be doing this. I fix it for them. You being able to eat more students of the problem at her food, swearing to later go know this is bad can express concern, more. The role and promote positive body running. for me,’ but they of a friend is to images. Working with Greek Although this is an extreme still are doing but you canʼt change be there for the Life, the Women’s Center hopes case, so many women fall into it. It’s hard to their behavior.” person. A lot of to implement a resource person the trap of looking at their body change behaviors times we want within each sorority. and disliking what they see. and perceptions to fix it for them. In addition, the Women’s According to the National Eating of themselves.” Christine Dennis You can express Center is planning a “Cool Disorder Association, 91 percent Klein said an Counseling and Advocacy concern, but you Women Calendar,” which shows of women on college campuses eating disorder Coordinator can’t change alternate views of women aside have dieted, and 22 percent also becomes their behavior.” from a bikini. Women on campus dieted often or “always. ” After physiological Professional will be featured to “send out posi- puberty, five to 10 million girls after a person with the disorder help greatly increases chances tive images that do not have to do and women in the United States, enters the level of malnutrition. of recovering, but, as Klein said, with how thin they are,” Dennis as well as one million boys and The decreased caloric intake many feel a negative stigma said. men, struggle with an eating affects the brain chemistry and about receiving help. For more information on signs Look for this week’s disorder. the person sees things differently. “If someone is not motivated of an eating disorder or general solution on page 13. Part of this is due to the Researchers believe many to start making changes, then information, visit the National media’s influence on American times either overeating or under- we are not going to have an Eating Disorders Association solution culture. Media surrounds the eating are ways for the patient to effect on that person,” Klein said. (www.NationalEatingDisorder public with images of unrealistic self-medicate themselves, accord- “The time it takes for recovery is .org) or Anorexia Nervosa and ideals for women and men. An ing to Anorexia Nervosa and dependent. It is going to be a lot Related Eating Disorders, Inc. average female model can be up Related Eating Disorders, Inc. harder to change behaviors for (www.anred.com). Friends and to 5 feet 10 inches tall and wear Research has also shown that a someone who has had the ill- victims are encouraged to also a size six or smaller. The 1997 family history of other psychiat- ness for a longer period of time. seek help at the Cook Counseling Psychology Today Body Image ric problems increases the likeli- We encourage to get the family Center or the Women’s Center. Survey reported 43 percent of hood of an eating disorder. involved … and friends help a Pamphlets on the subject are also women become more insecure Eating disorders do not just lot, too, with coping.” available in the resource center about weight after seeing “very affect females, though. For every Although on-campus resourc- of SHC.

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complete all scheduled tests, and do your homework. ® from the staff at the #1 If your score doesn’t improve on test day from your Kaplan diagnostic or a prior official test score, you KAPLAN clothing store in Blacksburg. can choose to repeat our program for free or get a full refund of your tuition. To be eligible for this offer, you must be enrolled in Kaplan’s full classroom, tutoring, or online courses. In addition, you must 1-800-KAP-TEST present an official copy of your score report and Be A Mad Dog Girl! submit your course materials within 90 days. kaptest.com/premed Tuesday, December 9, 2003  Collegiate Times  Page 9 Sports QB rotation to follow Tech into 2004 season by Rajan Nanavati your main man. terbacks. However, the coaching “Human nature being what it Sports Editor So what happens in those cer- staff decided to stick with Vick is, I’m sure thinks tain circumstances when the team as the primary dur- he’s the best player,” Rogers said. It is the most heralded, yet has two and simply ing the team’s loss against the “I think that human nature is that most difficult position in all of can’t decide who should be the University of Pittsburgh. Since you’re selfish, and I think that sports. It requires peak condi- one it sticks with? then, the team has gone back and Bryan Randall does a tremen- tioning of both the mind and the Welcome to the conundrum forth between the two signal call- dous job of fighting that, but its body; it even requires a touch of facing the Virginia Tech foot- ers, creating a potential problem not easy.” ESP, to a certain extent. ball team. In as the team looks In whatever playing time he He is the leader of the offense one corner, you toward the 2004 has received, Vick has shown and, in many cases, the entire have incumbent (Marcus Vick is) season. flashes of brilliance, which the football team. He is seen as the q u a r t e r b a c k “ “The fact of coaches want to harness. His hero when the team wins, and Bryan Randall, a an outstanding play- the matter is the quick release and deep balls are there is no bigger scapegoat on junior who has er, (and) heʼs got a one guy with reminiscent of his older brother, the field when the team loses. He been the starting lot of the same quali- more experience and he certainly has the advan- is the one and only quarterback, signal caller for is going to be tage over Randall in those areas. the Hokies for ties that his brother more consistent,” He is faster than Randall in pure the better part of had.” said Tech quar- straight-line speed, which is two seasons. In terback coach another reason the coaching staff the other corner Kevin Rogers, wants to get more and more Vick Kevin Rogers ROBERT DRAKE/SPPS stands the much- who was one of on the field. Tech quarterback coach heralded sopho- the primary rea- “He’s a terrific talent,” Rogers After the West Virginia game, Marcus Vick started seeing more Marcus sons Vick chose said of Vick. “He’s an outstand- more and more action in games. Vick — younger to attend Tech ing player, (and) he’s got a lot of brother of former Hokie sensa- over other schools recruiting him. the same qualities that his brother over Vick to start the season. employed a similar system dur- tion . “We’ve got another guy that’s got had. We’re trying to keep him “When they put me in there, I ing its 2002 season between The two quarterbacks split time a chance to be a great player.” active and not let him get stale just try to do the best that I can quarterback David Greene all season long, with the younger Some argue that Randall may and not let him assume the role do,” Vick said. “That’s the main and the physically gifted D.J. gaining more and more playing have played himself out of the job of a backup and not competing.” thing. I just try not to turn the ball Shockley. Shockley rotated series time as the season progressed. after the outing he had against It is apparent, however, that over; trying to make the big play with Greene during certain occa- In the team’s win against the , where Randall certainly has a greater will bring you down.” sions, but as the season wore on, University of Miami, Vick saw his he, along with most of the team, command over the offense and Tech is not the only school that Bulldogs head coach Mark Richt first extensive playing time of the looked very out of sync. He threw is more comfortable running it has had to deal with this problem. decided to stick with Greene for season in arguably Tech’s most three interceptions after throwing due to his extra year of experi- Perhaps the most prominent case the stretch run, along with this important game of the year. a total of three in the previous ence. Moreover, Randall is more is the University of Texas, where season. At the time, the coaches felt five games. Since that game, Vick accurate on shorter passing, upon a debate between incumbent However, the coaching staff ELEANOR HOPSON/SPPS Vick’s scrambling ability would has seen more playing time, and which the Tech team predicates Major Applewhite and talented feels that a situational rotation Bryan Randall saw most of be a favorable match-up against the coaches seemed quicker to most of its offense. These were prospect Chris Simms raged on a may be something Tech can a Miami defense that had a tough shuttle the main signal caller in the primary reasons the coaching couple of years ago. Applewhite employ. the playing time early on. time accounting for mobile quar- and out of the game. staff decided to go with Randall rallied the team after a few losses “I still think we’ve got two when Simms became starter and good quarterbacks,” said Tech eventually held onto the job until head coach . “We’ve he graduated. got to find a way to get them both The University of Georgia on the field at some points.”

MARIACHI BAND ON DEC. 10TH

Dec. 31, 2003 Page 10  Collegiate Times  Tuesday, December 9, 2003 SportsNotes Tech cheerleader in competition fi nals by Michelle Hershman Athlon’s annual college football preview. Women’s basketball: Hokies Associate Sports Editor Athlon will also award Tech’s cheerleading extend winning streak, beat Alabama squad $1,000. A finance major from Roanoke, Clem The regular football season has ended, but joins cheerleaders from University of South The No. 19 ranked Virginia Tech women’s basketball team Virginia Tech’s most spirited fan isn’t ready Carolina, University of Arkansas, University stayed undefeated Sunday by defeating the University of Alabama to quiet down. Hokie cheerleader Jessica of Nebraska, North Carolina State University Crimson Tide 68-51. The Hokies’ 6-0 record is the second best start Clem will keep the spirit going as one of six and Clemson University in the final round. in school history. The win also snaps Alabama’s 53 home-game cheerleaders nationwide to make the final Voting for the final round began Dec. 2 winning streak against non-conference opponents. round of the Athlon Sports Spirit Contest. and will last until the national championship Tech’s defense played a huge role in the victory, holding the Athlonsports.com’s first annual sideline game in New Orleans on Jan. 4, 2004. Crimson Tide to only 19 points in the second half. spirit competition recognized the senior Right now, Clem is tied with Kristen Junior Erin Gibson recorded her second double-double of the captain in October after it shot pictures of Hardcastle of Arkansas for fourth place with season for the Hokies, with 13 points and 12 rebounds. Senior Ieva the Tech cheerleaders. 11 percent of the vote. Kublina and sophomore Dawn Chriss also added 13 points, while Athlon chose to use Clem and the Hokies Chelsea Kimmerling of Nebraska leads the sophomore Carrie Mason scored nine and tallied five steals. as a Big East conference representative, pack with 9,709 votes, which is 26 percent of and Clem is the only Big East cheerleader the total. Clem narrowly beat Kimmerling remaining. in the second round. Clem said the winner To make her way to the final round, Clem depends mostly on how many people you Men’s basketball: Ohio State beats had to compete with cheerleaders from can get to vote. schools from each of the six BCS conferences For the second round she had a lot of help Tech, 62-57 in an online poll. Fan votes determined the from professors who wrote to listservs and winner of each round, and Clem led the sec- asked their classes to vote. The Virginia Tech men’s basketball team fell to 3-3 on the season ond round with 30,211 votes. “I haven’t been following (the final with a 62-57 loss to Ohio State University on Saturday. “I was pretty proud of the support Tech round) that closely,” she said, “but I’m vot- The Hokies fell behind early as the Buckeyes started the game ROBERT DRAKE/SPPS showed,” Clem said. “I was a little surprised ing everyday. on a 9-3 run. Ohio State took a 16-point lead into the half as a result Jessica Clem is a finalist in the spirit I got over 30,000 votes.” Votes for Clem can be cast at of Tech’s poor shooting. The Hokies only hit 30 percent of their If she wins the final round, Clem will www.athlonsports.com/spirit on the right- first-half shots. competition on Athlonsports.com. be given the chance to be on the cover of hand portion of the page. A more accurate Hokie offense opened up the second half with an 11-point run. However, they were never able to catch up to the Buckeyes. With four minutes left, Tech pulled within six, but senior standout Bryant Matthews fouled out two minutes later, hurting the Hokies’ momentum. Matthews was named Big East Conference player of the week for his performance in last week’s games. Freshman Zabian Dowdell led Tech in the loss to the Buckeyes, finishing with 18 points.

Football: Hokies close to signing deal to play USC in 2004 opener

Virginia Tech athletic director Jim Weaver is close to sealing a deal for the Hokie football team to play University of Southern California next season in the 2004 Black Coaches Association Classic. The game would be held at either Giants Stadium in New Jersey or FedEx Field in Washington, D.C. Weaver postponed a 2004 contest at No. 2 Louisiana State University in order to schedule the BCA Classic, but the BCA rejected his proposal to play East Carolina University at .

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��������������������������� ������������������������������������ ����� Page 12  Collegiate Times  Tuesday, December 9, 2003 Throwin’ in the towel: Callin’ it quits after 4 1/2

a lot of fun — rooting for Byron sports. The ACC is one of the top Leftwich. I knew his team had conferences in the country in that 1411 S. MAIN STREET • BLACKSBURG Kumar no chance against the mighty it is more than one-dimensional. Hokies, but I loved to see the Obviously basketball and now 540-961-0602 Alumni status look of disgust on the faces of the football will be the ACC’s pre- Malhotra Tech faithful around me. mier sports, but the conference Many a time, I’ve been asked has historically been dominant www.cmtsports.com “Don’t you have any school in other areas, including lacrosse, spirit?” Every time, I shoot back soccer and baseball. “They say ‘they never really “Do you?” For those of you that con- ARE YOU READY? miss you til you dead or you People root for the football sider yourself “diehard Hokies” gone’ team because many of them are I challenge you to expand your IT’S HOLIDAY SEASON AT CMT! So on that note I’m leaving diehard college football fans and horizons beyond the confines of after the song.” because the fanfare and hoopla Lane Stadium. Preach Hov, preach. I always surrounding a Tech football game I expect you to support our wanted to start a column off with make it an event people look men’s basketball team as they do a rap lyric — it took me four forward to. This passion people battle in their last year in the Big years, but I finally got one in. display for the pigskin doesn’t East. While they may be strug- All joking aside, this will prob- always translate to other sports. gling now, don’t expect the los- ably be the last time my words When’s the last time you heard ing seasons to continue — Coach 20% OFF will grace these pages so I find of people tailgaiting outside War Seth Greenberg knows his stuff it necessary to take a stroll down Memorial awaiting the start of a and will restore this program to MEN’S & WOMEN’S memory lane. Swim & Dive event. greatness. The four and half years I’ve The truth is, not many people I would hope you see our spent in Blacksburg have been really have school spirit; they just women’s team play at some some of the most memorable of want to watch a winner. point this year. Coach Bonnie my life. I’ve seen many things, Obviously I want the Hokies, Henrickson has built a respect- been many places and met a lot especially the football team to able, top-25 program that is of great people along the way succeed. How do you think Tournament bound. So what if SNOWBOARD APPAREL — I’ll definitely miss it all when we got all these new buildings they’re women? They ball better I’m gone. around campus? What do you than half you bums at McComas. But it is time to move on. think funded the Torgersen Hall Then of course theirs our Lets put it this way, I had a and bridge and Lane Stadium top-25 men’s soccer team and chance to see the greatest quar- expansion? What do you think baseball team that produces All- terback in Tech’s history do his gave the promenade at Cassell Americans and pro-prospects SNOWBOARD BINDINGS thing in Lane Stadium and now it’s beautiful makeover? year after year. The list goes on his baby brother is playing there. Truth be told, covering football and on. STARTING AT Yep, I’ve been here a long time. games will be one of the things I I’ve rambled long enough; Obviously, the staple of my miss the most about Tech. it’s time to hang ‘em up. time here at Tech has been trials Nothing beats sitting in the Congratulations to all those mov- 00 and tribulations of the football press box, high above the sta- ing on to bigger and better things. team. I wouldn’t by any means, dium or standing on the side- To all who remain, make the most $170 consider myself a diehard fan, lines during the end of the fourth of your time here, because you’ll T-NINE SKYE but I have grown fond of Hokie quarter. The game is much more never get these four years back. SKI football in the five seasons I’ve impressive from 20 feet away, While the real world may hold 8351015 been here. trust me. economic and financial security, PROVIDES A How could you not — it’s such I’ll also never forget the dozen you can’t put a price on the com- SMOOTH, a big part of the culture here and or so basketball games I’ve been forts and enjoyment of the col- EASY-TO-TURN for a born cynic like me, it gives lucky enough to sit courtside for, lege life. B E Z. RIDE THAT me a platform to piss people off. including the two huge upsets of FOSTERS RAPID By no means am I a hater, I just a year ago (against the University Kumar Malhotra is the sports IMPROVEMENT like to play devils advocate. of Virginia and UConn). editor for the Collegiate Times. The last game I attended as a With the move to the ACC He has worked at the CT for 3 Reg $30000 fan was last year’s home game set to take place next year, the 1/2 years, as a staff writer, sports SALE $22997 against Marshall and I really had future looks bright for all Hokie assistant, and sports editor. Congratulations to the CT’s graduating seniors: PUBLIC ENEMY SKI SCOPE Kumar Malhotra - Sports Editor 8351014 SNOWBOARD Rajan ‘Hollywood’ Nanavati - Sports Editor Designed for 9171036 Associate Sports Editor pipe, park & •WOOD CORE Michelle Hershman - anywhere else •SLANTWALL Thanks for your dedication and hard work 00 Reg $425 •STONE GROUND through the years! Good luck. SALE $34997 BASE Internet ONE OF THE BEST BOARDS Made Easy! LocalNet’s Unlimited Internet access FOR THE MONEY PER $ MONTH! 00 No Credit Card Reg $299 . Required! 97 9 95SETUP SOFTWARE SALE $259 makes connecting fast & easy! FIVE email boxes, Webmail, Instant Messaging and more! 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Tuesday, December 9, 2003  Collegiate Times  Page 13

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