Wednesday, November 9, 2011 Print Edition by Collegiate Times

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

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COLLEGIATETIMES 108th year, issue 113

News, page 2

Food & Drink, page 6

Opinions, page 3

Sports, page 5

Classifieds, page 4

Sudoku, page 4

ELECTION COVERAGE

BRAD KLODOWSKI/ SPPS

Evan Eshelman, a junior ACIS major, browses Facebook during a class in Hancock 100.

acebook facts revealed STUDY SHOWS WEAK CORRELATION BETWEEN STUDENTS CHECKING FACEBOOK AND GRADES

DANIEL LIN/ SPPS

(L-R) Leslie Hager-Smith, John Bush and Michael Sutphin strike a pose after learning of last night’s election results.

ERIN CHAPMAN news staff writer

VOTER TURNOUT LOWER THAN EXPECTED IN SOME BLACKSBURG PRECINCTS TUES. ERIN CHAPMAN news staff writer Voter turnout was lower than expected across Blacksburg yesterday, and many issues arose among those behind the ballots. This morning at the A1 precinct of Slusser’s Chapel Church of God, a man voted in an incorrect race and became belligerent when he realized the mistake. John White, chief election officer of the A1 precinct, said that he had to call the police when the man refused to calm down. “He was yelling at officials and at voters inside,” White said. “When I asked him to leave he continued to yell at people coming in to vote, so I had to call the authorities.” This was one a few issues that the precinct faced during the first few hours of voting. White said a lot

Here is something that everyone can “like.” There is no correlation between poor grades and periodic Facebook checking. Rey Junco, a professor at Lock Haven University, has done extensive research on Facebook and its usage. His most recent study looks at the relationship between Facebook usage and grades. He found that students spend an average of 106 minutes on Facebook per day. Between 85 percent and 99 percent of college students use Facebook. For every 93 minutes more than that time, students saw a .12 decrease in grade point average. Junco said this doesn’t have much of a real world impact. “We certainly are concerned about the students who are spending a lot of time on Facebook, but we are talking about three standard deviations above the mean for it to have any type of alarming impact,” Junco said. Throughout his studies Junco found that it isn’t the number of times a student checks Facebook, but rather the amount of time a student spends on the site that affects GPA. Sierra Downs, a junior psychology major, isn’t concerned with Facebook use either. “I don’t think it interferes with studying,” she said. “I think if you use Facebook the right way it does have some educational value.” Junco agreed but emphasized

of confusion came from redistricting issues. Michael Sutphin recieved the wrong ballot when he arrived at the Blacksburg Community Center to vote. “I realized that my ballot didn’t have the correct races on it. The people voting next to me also didn’t have the correct ballot, that’s unfortunate that it happened,” Sutphin said. Town Council member John Bush expressed disappointment that people were having difficulty at the polls. “Voting needs to be easy and accessable to everyone, any party that is making it difficult for others to vote should be ashamed of themselves,” Bush said. “People see campaign signs across the street, and they think that is the race they will be voting in,” he said. “They don’t realize that they might be in a dif see VOTE / page two

that the length of time students spend on the site could affect their schoolwork. “If students are checking the site a few times a day and not spending much time on it, then that doesn’t have any relationship to outcomes,” he said. “Where if a student checks it once and spends hours on it, then that seems to be related to

“

Someone who might be from a generation that didn’t grow up with technology might say that students are spending too much time on Facebook to the exclusion of faceto-face contact, and research doesn’t show that.” REY JUNCO LOCK HAVEN UNIVERSITY

more negative outcomes.” Junco said that one of the worst ways to use Facebook is to multitask on the site — having Facebook open while studying, for example. Additionally, he found that Facebook usage correlated to students’ activities offline. Students who participate in class are those who are encouraged to take part in discussions online. “Using Facebook is related to involvement in campus activities,” Junco said. “The data does not support the notion that an increase in social networking

sites is allowing people to have less social interaction in person.” Using Facebook “the right way” is one topic Junco’s study looked at. The study makes a distinction between communicative and non-communicative activities on Facebook. Communicative activities would include commenting on statuses, and creating or responding to events. Noncommunicative activities would include playing games on the site or repeatedly “stalking” others’ profiles. These activities are often a reflection of how introverted or extroverted students are outside of the Internet. But Junco isn’t concerned that increased Internet use will lead to a generation lacking in social skills. Instead, he finds it more important to look at how the technology is being used. “Media and adults spend a great deal of time talking about how Facebook is bad and terrible for social skills,” he said. “But the people that say that are looking at Facebook through their own lens of how they would use technology. “Someone who might be from a generation that didn’t grow up with technology might say that students are spending too much time on Facebook to the exclusion of face-to-face contact, and research doesn’t show that.” However, Eva Farrell, a senior Biology major, deleted her Facebook over the summer, because of privacy concerns and schoolwork. “I found myself online when I should have been studying,” she said. “As you look at other people’s information you have to realize that people are seeing that same information about you. It’s creepy.”

Charity co-founder speaks to Tech JOSH HIGGINS news reporter

DANIEL LIN / SPPS

BLACKSBURG WELCOMES NEWCOMER MICHAEL SUTPHIN TO TOWN COUNCIL ERIN CHAPMAN news staff writer On Tuesday, Blacksburg residents reelected John Bush and Leslie HagerSmith to Town Council. Newcomer Michael Sutphin took the third remaining seat, over fellow challengers Paul Lancaster and Melvyn Huber. Sutphin, a 2006 Virginia Tech graduate, said his campaign has matured since his unsuccessful run for a Council seat two years ago. “Over the last couple of years, I’ve built support and gained experience,” Sutphin said. “I think that the people in the town have seen that I’ve been engaged and involved in the com-

munity.” Sutphin said he can bring an important perspective to town politics by being involved in both Tech and community activities. “I’ve lived in Blacksburg as a student and now as a working professional. I think I’m in a unique position to understand the issues,” he said. Vice mayor and Council member Susan Anderson said she looks forward to working with Hager-Smith, Bush and Sutphin. Anderson also said she hopes Sutphin’s elections will help Tech students reach out to their officials. “Students might feel more comfortable speaking with someone their own see SUTPHIN / page two

The cries of Ugandan children echoed through Burruss auditorium Tuesday night. But an international organization is trying to quell those cries through the power of multimedia. Jason Russell, a co-founder of the international charity Invisible Children, and Stella Mistica, a Ugandan who lived in the war zone and is now a mentor through the program, spoke at Virginia Tech last night. The Tech chapter of Invisible Children held a screening of the documentary “Tony,” which tells the story of a young Ugandan child’s life in a war-stricken nation, a lecture, and question and answer session. Invisible Children is an international organization committed to ending the war led by a militant terrorist group known as the Lord’s Resistance Army, headed by Joseph Kony. Kony established the army in an attempt to take over the Ugandan government, using an army of abducted children to fight the cause. “The people who have seen (Invisible Children) have invested in it and committed to its success,” Russell said. Russell has spearheaded the organization with the two other co-founders, who have all spent a lot of time in the African war zone.

MAZIAR FAHANDEZH/ SPPS

Virginia Tech students thank President Barack Obama for his support against the Lord’s Resistance Army. “Africa has become a second home to me,” Russell said. “It’s like when I go there — and I’ve been there over 20 times — that I’m at home. A lot of my friends and family live there, and I feel that as I touch the African ground, I’m right back at home, back to being with the people that I love as much as my family.” But although the night would highlight a lot of Russell’s and other Invisible Children’s members’ experiences, the main focus

of the night was awareness. “Tonight we’re focused on awareness — getting the word out about what’s happening in that area,” said Jessica Robertson, the president of Tech’s chapter. Mistica, who lived in the war zone as a child and has been a mentor for Invisible Children for five years, said living in the war zone has been a moving force for advocating awareness about children soldiers. “I grew up living it it for more

than 10 years, and it was not easy,” she said. “Doing this is something that I do with a lot of will, a lot of interest, and I am so intentional about it because I know what it means. I went through it because I am a survivor of the war.” Mistica said she hopes the organization will really have an impact on ending the violence in the region. “It’s great to tell so many people see MOVIE / page two

2 news september 23, 2009 november 9, 2011

page B editors: claire sanderson, michelle sutherland newseditor@collegiatetimes.com/ 540.231.9865 COLLEGIATETIMES

Beamer weighs in on Penn State scandal MATT JONES sports editor

One of college football’s most recognizable figures has a bigger issue on his hands this week than his upcoming game against Nebraska. Joe Paterno, Penn State’s legendary coach, has been caught up with the news that his former defensive coordinator, Jerry Sandusky, is alleged to have committed multiple sexual crimes involving children. Paterno, the FBS active leader in terms of wins (409), could be facing his final days in Happy Valley after all the news comes out. Paterno is facing heat because he failed to inform authorities of Sandusky's alleged violations when Paterno first became aware of them in 2002. "I do know Joe Paterno very well," said Frank Beamer, Virginia Tech head coach. "I consider him a great friend. He's been great for college football, and I really think a lot of him.” Sandusky, who was the Nittany Lions’ defensive coordinator from 1977 to 1999, was arrested for 40 counts related to the sexual abuse of young boys over a 15-year period. Sandusky is currently free on $100,000 bail pending trial. "I don't know Sandusky well, but every time I've met him and talked with him, I was always impressed with him," Beamer said. “I think exactly what people knew, and when they knew it and so forth, that's the issue. I wouldn't pass judgment there." Beamer, who won the first-ever Joseph V. Paterno Award last year, has always respected the program Paterno runs. “It was for not only winning football games, but for academics and how you ran your program,” Beamer said. “From my knowlMCT CAMPUS edge, Joe ran a great program." Joe Paterno, Penn State’s football coach, is tangled up in controversy because he failed to inform authorities of alleged sexual crimes committed by former defensive coordinator Jerry Sandusky in 2002.

Movie: Ugandan speaks from page one

in the world about it and get together to do something to change the lives of these kids and stop the war,” Mistica said. “The only way we can do this is create awareness, and make as many people as possible to join hands and join the cause.” Robertson said the event brought light to issues prominent in Uganda — and now in surrounding countries, as the LRA and Kony are beginning to abduct children from other countries as well. “I don’t think any person will be able to leave the room saying they didn’t learn anything,” she said. “It’s an incredible task the founders have taken on. But I think the movie itself is very inspiring, and there’s a lot to learn from the movie and from Jason.” The film captured eight years of the life of a Ugandan child named Tony, and how the founders of the organization got to know him and use him to help the cause. The movie highlighted the struggles of living in a world of war. Tony, along with his family and friends, were “night commuters,” which are children who travel to designated safe places to avoid abduction by the L RA. Because of Tony’s involvement with the organization, the group has been able to establish programs to help the people of central Africa cope with the war and gain an education. The group created the Legacy Scholarship Fund, which helps Ugandan children get the education necessary to fight the issues they are facing with the war.

As a part of this program, the students are given adult mentors that assist them in all facets of life, to ensure they can become leaders. The local chapter has to put in a lot of effort into planning this event. John Boyer, the geography instructor for the 3,000-student world regions class, played a pivotal role in getting Russell to speak at the screening and marketing the event to Tech students, Robertson said. “With the help of (Boyer), I think we’re going to have a huge crowd,” Robertson said. “It’ll be a good success for the club, coming from its beginnings to what it is now — having the founder come speak.” And a large crowd there was. Nearly all of the auditorium’s 3,003 seats were filled. As Russell and Mistica came onto the stage, nearly the entire audience rose in applause. After the applause subsided and he began giving his closing speech, Russell called Tech to action. He asked audience members to break a record for the number of monthly contributions at a single event, which is currently at 90 people. “You are world-changers,” Russell said. “You are going to change the lives of these kids in Uganda.” Applause resulted, and Russell said he was excited to see the audience’s enthusiasm. “I’m just going to transfer to Virginia Tech to take this class,” Russell said of Tech’s world regions course, which was a large number of those in attendance. Russell and Boyer both said

that the contributions could help eliminate Kony from the battlefield — an achievement for the organization. “Brining Joseph Kony to justice is the goal of this next year,” Russell told the audience. “That’s the dream tonight. That’s the legacy you’ll leave.” But Invisible Children has already seen some effects of their work. The organization constructed radio towers that are being used to warn towns in central Africa of when Kony and his troops are attacking, so they can take preemptive measures to avoid death and abduction. Months of lobbying and advocating by the group came to fruition when President Barack Obama passed the Lord’s Resistance Army Disarmament and Norther Ugandan Recovery Act. The act states that the administration is to create a plan that would remove Joseph Kony from the battlefield, and help rebuild Uganda and surrounding war-affected nations. As a result, 100 advisory troops were sent to central Africa to assist in the removal of Kony from the battlefield. Before the conclusion, Tech chapter members recorded a video and took pictures of the entire audience holding signs of thanks for the president for passing the act. Boyer closed the event with a challenge to the audience to donate to the cause with their time, money and commitment. “Let’s put this bastard behind bars or in Hell,” he said.

Sutphin: Campaign ‘maturing’ from page one

age. Much of the population of Blacksburg is students, and we need their voices,” Anderson said. Kim Kipling, one of the Blacksburg residents who came out to Gillie’s yesterday to show support for the three candidates, said he is especially excited about Sutphin being elected. “I think he is going to bring a young professional viewpoint to Council. I really think he will work well with the existing Council — he doesn’t have an axe to grind with Town Council,” he said.

Kipling also expressed his hope that Sutphin will continue to support enhancing alternative transit methods for the town. Hager-Smith said she was looking forward to working with Sutphin. “He represents a different constituency, and he is well regarded by his colleagues,” she said. Incumbent candidate John Bush credited his campaign strategy and support from the community for his reelection. “You really never know what will happen in local politics, I can’t say enough about the people that supported me,” Bush

said. Ha ge r- S m it h s ai d she is humbled by her reelection. “I will work hard to deserve my place on Town Council,” she said. Amanda Gurley, a senior public and urban affairs major, said it was important for students to be aware of local elections and their elected officials. “There needs to be more cooperation between Blacksburg and Tech. Right now they seem to be two different entities,” she said.

what you’re saying //comments from online readers... On Tech making the AP's top ten (Nov. 8): Anonymous>> Who are the "Fighting Gobblers"?

Anonymous>> someone doesn't know their VT history

Lane>> * facepalm *

Mark>> Shame on you.

Techerman>> Let's just hope Paul Johnson and the GT Bees don't run it up our hinies on Thursday night. Looking at this week's Two Deep, it appears that Bud is going to go light and fast with a 4-4-3 defense. But the O is going to have to come up with some long, sustained drives to keep their offense off the field or we're done. Go Fighting Gobblers!!!

Anonymous>> do some research please. ps what about boykin? pretty sure he's done his fair share and more all season long.

Vote: Polls saw problems from page one

ferent district.” Leslie Hager-Smith said confusing voting issues stem from redistricting. “It’s hard for us to cope with a system that is so inefficient, it isn’t designed to encourage people to vote,” Hager-Smith said. White said the issues could have been the fault of the voters or poll workers, but all discrepancies occurred at the same booth. White said the worker at that booth was reassigned. Problems with voting in Montgomery County were confined to the A1 precinct. An abundance of different ballots caused long lines at the Blacksburg Community Center. “We opened 15 minutes later than we were supposed to as an

attempt to prevent any confusion among poll workers with the different types of ballots,” said Karen Ayers, the chief election officer of the G1 precinct. Ayers said they were also seeing long lines throughout the day because it was taking voters a long time to vote. Both White and Ayers said they saw a fairly steady amount of voters. “This precinct usually has a high turnout. The only election where we’ll see a higher turnout is for the presidential election,” White said. Jim Dailey, the chief election officer at the Blacksburg Library, where voters only had one ballot, said the location was seeing a high turnout, but slightly lower than was expected for the pre-

cinct. Jennifer Tilley, a Blacksburg resident, said it is important to vote, regardless of the type of election. “Town Council is important for Blacksburg, it’s important who we put in office, and it’s my duty to vote,” she said. Hannah McMillan, also a Blacksburg resident, said she wasn’t worried about any specific issues facing the town, but she still felt it was important to vote. Ayers said she didn’t think many voters coming to the polls were aware of what they had to vote on. Ayers said she was seeing a slightly lower turnout than expected, possibly because of the lack of controversial issues.

opınıons 3

editors: scott masselli, sean simons opinionseditor@collegiatetimes.com/ 540.231.9865 COLLEGIATETIMES

november 9, 2011

The Collegiate Times is an independent student-run newspaper serving the Virginia Tech community since 1903

MCT CAMPUS

Our Views [staff editorial]

Students should vote, despite home location Y

esterday's elections have left some wondering how many of those from the college student population turned out, if they did at all. In a community that is not home to most of its members, voter turnout could severely impact election results. Most of Virginia Tech's student population is from northern Virginia, out of state or another country entirely — not Blacksburg or southwest Virginia. So why should students care? Students are in the strange position of being away from home more often than not. Spending nearly nine months of the year in Blacksburg doesn't make it home, though, right? But it should. The issues here affect students more often

than those in their own hometowns and states, and voicing their concerns through local elections is something that makes a substantial impact. Besides, how often do students drive or fly home just to cast a ballot? Immersing in the culture and community we are surrounded by is essential to the college experience, and our growth as citizens and civically responsible individuals. We are not forced to vote, and we are not forced to be aware — but at a point in our lives where we can create change and spark community movements, we should. -the editorial board consists of scott masselli and sean simons

College costs must be lowered T

he average graduate last year walked away from university with both a diploma and $24,000 in student loans. Some even say they graduate with debts from student loans that reach six figures. On top of all that, one in five graduates is unemployed. It is the unfortunate reality that students are leaving school with a huge debt and no way to pay it off. At Virginia Tech, the average cost per year for in-state tuition, fees, and room and board is about $16,828. Multiply that by four to calculate the total amount to graduate on time. Getting a degree from Tech will cost you roughly $67,312 if you are unable to receive any scholarships or grants. For the average person living in the U.S., scraping up that much money on time is impossible without the help of student loans. What’s next, 5 percent and 15 years? Is that the only way young adults are going to be able to earn an education? What most people don’t understand are the consequences that arise from getting student loans.

You are responsible for repaying any student loans taken, even if you do not graduate school or have trouble finding a job. Once that happens, students are given 270 to 360 days to pay back any federal student loans in monthly installments, depending on how frequent and how much is due during each installment. This does not change according to your employment status. If this is not done, your loans will be in what is called default, and that is when serious consequences come about. Once in default, your loans may be turned over to a collection agency, you can be sued for the entire amount of your loan, your wages may be garnished (15 percent of your wage is taken away to pay off the student loans), the federal government may withhold part of your social security benefit payments, you won’t be able to receive any more federal financial aid, you may not be able to renew a professional license you hold, and on top of it all, your credit history will be forever scarred because you were unable to pay back your student

loans. These are just a few of the possible results of getting a student loan. Student loans are supposed to help students gain an education but may have a much more negative impact if things don’t go their way. Today, most jobs that pay well require a college degree, and gaining a college degree should be a goal of every person who wishes to enrich their knowledge and make a difference in their own way. The fact of the matter is that college needs to be made more affordable. Education should not only be available to those who were born into wealthy families. For the last 10 years, College Board has reported that college tuitions and fees are increasing on average by 5.6 percent a year. As time passes, gaining knowledge becomes more unattainable, and this needs to end. Universities and colleges need to lower the price of higher education.

LINA BARKAWI -regular columnist -junior -industrial systems engineering major

‘Twelfth Night’ worth the admission price

Political participation varies

hrust into relative modernity with “Twelfth Night,” the theatre department’s latest production by director Greg Justice that capitalizes on the bawdy humor of the play without denigrating the signature elements of Shakespeare’s comedy. Certain aspects are heightened to often hilarious effect: The fool, Feste, lip syncs to Ella Fitzgerald while strutting around in eye shadow and high heels; Malvolio, the sycophantic puritan tricked by Sir Toby Belch and other denizens of Illyria, ends up more the fool in crossgartered yellow fishnets, accentuated by a frilly pink corset. The stage reflects these colorful additions by having a rainbow of wires stretch from stage to ceiling, the entanglement of them above the audience’s heads, reflecting the encounters of characters in the play. At a nimble two hours and six minutes, with a 10-minute intermission, the production flew. The double-entendres and thicket of language are made accessible for the collegiate audience by the aptitude of the actors: Andrew Keller’s portrayal of Sir Toby Belch, drunkenly swaying from the wires mentioned and swigging from bottles of ale was cause for some of the largest laughs from the audience. Keller was convincing enough for the audience to think he was actually inebriated. The expressions and flailing limbs of Stephanie Ramsey, who

plays Viola/Cesario, conveys the discomfort of her genderbending character excellently. Orsino, now with frosted blonde hair, has just the right touch of unknowing arrogance, and Olivia switches between haughty countess and vixen with dexterity. Those examining the fidelity to the Bard’s plot and language won’t be disappointed either. The relationship of brother and sister Sebastian and Viola, and their confusions with identity, is lucidly portrayed and easily understood by the audience. The disintegration of Malvolio’s character transitions from comedic to tragic, and the intensity of his vow to be “revenged,” is felt in Jordan Goldston’s roar. Although the play succeeds in comedic effort, the pathos of melancholy under the surface might be undersold here. In the text, Feste ends the play on a song concerning “the wind and the rain,” and the production focuses on the celebration of the twelfth night of Christmas. For that minor misgiving, however, the cast and crew succeed in making this a vital, swift and, most importantly, entertaining production. Even if you aren’t the biggest fan of Shakespeare, this one’s well worth the dollars (or ducats) for admission. TOM MINOGUE -guest columnist -senior -English major

any successful democracy, participation by the people of the nation is necessary, both in terms of the government solving problems and following the people’s will. These factors are necessary for a government to even fall under the categorization of a democracy. Here in the U.S., it’s crucial for us as citizens to participate in our democracy to keep our political system functioning properly and to fulfill a duty that we have as citizens to our nation. By political participation I do not mean simply voting in elections. Voting is certainly one way to politically participate and every citizen should try their best to do so. By voting in federal, state and local elections, we as citizens influence the political process by selecting who represents and utilizes the political power that Americans give its elected representatives. Voting is an important part of every American’s duty, but it is not the only form of participation and perhaps not even the most important form. Voting, in some ways, is a procedure that separates a citizen from the political process. Instead of trying to influence the actual political system, voting is merely selecting a politician you hope might change politics in the way you want. Now voting is certainly important, I would never argue otherwise, but even at its best, it is an act that separates an individual from the political process.

Far too often, the conversation around individual participation in this country ignores many of the very useful and effective avenues for political participation, ones we can do far more often than voting and that can have far more influence on government. Anything that has impact on the political discourse in our country and on our political institutions is political participation. Working in the media is also a form of participation, which is something done far more often than voting. Also commenting on someone else’s ideas or thoughts in any form of media is a way to get involved in the political discussion. Political participation at its core is any action or involvement that influences political institutions. Another powerful way for people to participate is through their involvement with groups that try to influence politics. Being involved with citizen groups, nonprofits, environmental groups, corporations and other organizations that try to influence government is a form of participation. This form of participation, often directed at a specific policy or idea, can be far more influential than voting for someone who might do something about an issue. By getting involved with such groups, an individual can amplify their voice by joining with others that think in similar ways. It is difficult for an individual to make a difference in government, but joining together with others on an issue is a way to strength-

en voices in the political system. This strategy is something that is relatively easy to do, and many people do so on a regular basis, even if they’re not active members in the specific group. Many people criticize interest groups, which are essentially what I was referring to earlier as being corrosive to the political system, yet these people seem to forget that most interest groups are made up of those trying to influence their government. Most of these groups are just people trying to participate in their government in a way other than voting. Interest groups are thus inherently democratic in nature, as they show the ability for people to organize and influence politics. Obviously there are issues with the interest group system, and plenty of groups have undue influence because of the amount of money they have, not the amount of members. It isn’t a perfect structure by any means, but it offers people a way to have a political voice beyond voting. If you have a problem with the way a certain group is influencing politics, then it would probably be more beneficial for your cause to join up with other people who think the same, than to pin your hopes on some politician. It’s a form of participation that practically everyone can do simply by joining one of these groups.

DEVIN MILLER -regular columnist -senior -political science major

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november 9, 2011

page 4

THE YEARBOOK OF

WORDSEARCH: Breakfast Locate the list of words in the word bank in the letter grid.

Regular Edition Today’s Birthday Horoscope: Today’s Birthday (11/09/11). This year you gain a new capacity to listen, and for that you’re appreciated by your partner. Partnership and friendship bring new satisfaction. Continue figuring out how to make a difference, and leave your singular imprint. Listen to young people.

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-Eggs -Waffle -Pancake -Muffin -Donut -Coffee -Tea -Cereal -Oatmeal -Bacon -Sausage -Fruit -Yogurt -Granola -Juice -Toast -Cold pizza -Hash browns -Milk

6 Li’l __: oldthemed restaurant 7 Travelin g companions? 8 NYC dance co. 9 Word of support 10 Cache crop? 11 Laundry conveyor 12 Good times 13 Group values 15 By a narrow margi n 18 Rank and file movers 21 Key of Schubert’s Impromptu Op. 90, No. 3 22 Popular party people 23 Arkansas’ s ___ National Forest 24 Baum princess 25 Stead 26 Warhead vehicle, briefly

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College Media Solutions

By Peter Koetters

ACROSS 1 Make sound 5 Fictional elephant 10 Pine 14 Capital at the foo t of Mount Entoto 16 Gambler ’s marke r 17 Moving like a dog in a narrow tube? 19 Spots on carte s 20 Straight opening? 21 Kennel worker 25 Greek sphinx , from the neck down 27 Dud sparklers? 29 Good for growing, as soi l

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11/9/11 30 Traps 31 Pick up 34 Razor brand 35 Contempt 37 Stadium level 38 Sigh relative 39 Othello, for one 40 Wonder Woman weapon 41 One solving severa l crosswords simultaneously? 44 Anniversary gal a 47 Häagen-Dazs array 48 Words after take or save 49 Z-zebra link

VIRGINIA TECH

Suduko

50 Brilliant bees? 57 Performer of many Dylan songs 58 San Diego Zo o attraction 59 __ breve 60 Folklore threats 61 Not at all bleak

Tuesday’s Puzzle Solved

DOW N 1 It may be glazed 2 URL ending 3 Woodworking tool 4 Songwriter Phair 5 One holding property in trust

Drink

28 Pirouette 31 Blow one’ s top 32 Coastal wader 33 They may signify joy 35 Exude 36 Nap 37 Branch 39 Media lead-in 40 Source of some greens 41 Italian square 42 Ascetic of yore 43 Articulations 44 Sluglike alien strangled by Lei a 45 Standard 46 Chisel ’s edge 49 Bacteriologist ’s suppl y 51 IHOP ’__: takeout food program 52 Short job 53 Syr. seceded from it in 1961 54 __-cone 55 Money VIPs 56 Mention

11/9/11

Amaretto sour BY PATRICK MURPHY| features editor

of the week

This decidedly simple drink still packs a punch. This beverage brings bite to the sweet, smooth almond-flavored amaretto. As the weather cools down, count on this to keep you warm.

Death by chocolate In need of something sweet? With layers upon layers of chocolate, this dessert will grab the attention of any chocolate lover. Dig into this dish for an amazing combination of brownie, chocolate pudding, whipped cream and crushed toffee. Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 45 minutes

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1. Add the amaretto to a cocktail shaker that’s partially filled with ice. 2. Pour in a splash or two of sweet and sour mix. 3. Shake, then strain and pour into glass. Add ice if desired. Use maraschino cherry or orange slice for garnish.

Ingredients:

Directions:

1 package brownie mix 2 packages instant chocolate pudding 1 package frozen whipped topping (thawed) 3 bars chocolate-covered English toffee

1. Prepare brownie mix according to directions on the box and let cool.

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Directions:

2 shots amaretto almond liqueur 1-2 splashes sweet and sour mix

BY EMMA GODDARD | features staff writer

2. Do the same when mixing the pudding.

4. Repeat layers in the same order. Save the last toffee bar to crumble and sprinkle on top before serving. 5. Refrigerate. Best if made the day before you serve it.

3. In a glass punch bowl, layer in the following order: ½ of the brownie (crumbled), ½ of the pudding, 1 toffee bar (crushed), ½ of the whipped topping.

Today’s Radio Schedule xed M i cs Dis

Ingredients:

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Week ending Oct. 28, 2011

rt ht A Nig ty cial Spe xed M i cs Dis

Top tracks

( ) Last week’s ranking in top five

We Found Love • Rihanna

(1) 1

Sexy and I Know It • LMFAO

(2) 2

Someone Like You • Adele

(3) 3

Good Feeling • Flo Rida

(4) 4

Without You • David Guetta & Usher

(5) 5

sports 5

editors: matt jones, zach mariner sportseditor@collegiatetimes.com/ 540.231.9865 COLLEGIATETIMES

november 9, 2011

Super Bowl contenders stand out through nine weeks Packers, 49ers are NFC’s elite teams Texans are a darkhorse AFC team T

he NFC is no doubt the conference to look at this year, as they have the two tops teams in the NFL. The Green Bay Packers and San Francisco 49ers are leading the NFC with records of 8-0 and 7-1, respectively. The Packers, who are reigning Super Bowl champs, show no signs of a let down this year. On the other hand, you have one of the most surprising teams this year in the 49ers, led by firstyear head coach Jim Harbaugh. Not only does the NFC have two top dogs, but they also have the Atlanta Falcons (5-3), New Orleans Saints (6-3), New York Giants (6-2), Chicago Bears (5-3) and even the surprising Detroit Lions (6-2), who have made a splash this year. The NFC is sometimes overlooked by the other powerhouse teams from the AFC like the Steelers, Patriots, Ravens and Jets, but this year has been different. The NFC has come out of the gates and has made its presence felt. Making the playoffs this year is not going to be an easy task for any team in the NFC without winning the division, as teams

“

Without a doubt, I look for the Packers to make the playoffs and, for that matter, another Super Bowl run.

will have to fight for the last two wildcard spots. One team will be left out of the playoffs this year, and that is why wins in this league come at a premium. The Packers are playing on a level where no one is able to touch them. Green Bay has been the most explosive team this year with weapons at all positions, and the last time anyone has seen this kind of offensive explosion was in 2000, when the St. Louis Rams were given the name “Greatest Show on Turf.” The Packers are able to create match-up problems for any defense, and when they find these match ups, they exploit them to the fullest. Baring any horrific disaster, Aaron Rodgers looks to be the next MVP. He leads this Packers offense against some of the great defenses and is still able to tear them a part, both through

the air and on the ground. The closest team to the Packers this year is the 49ers, and that is only in terms of their record. The 49ers are no doubt a surprise and are playing more like a playoff team, but do they really have what it takes to make a deep playoff run? The 49ers are a force to be reckoned with, but I do not look for them to be able to match up and compete for 60 minutes with elite teams like the Packers, who can spread you out and tear you apart. Without a doubt, I look for the Packers to make the playoffs and, for that matter, another Super Bowl run. They are the most complete team with the best quarterback in the league right now. The NFC is home to the reigning Super Bowl champions, and I look for this conference to once again be the home of the next.

2012

ZACK CONWAY -sports staff writer -freshman -communication major

hile much of the media has been focused on the success of NFC teams like the Packers and the 49ers, the AFC has some serious contenders as well. The primary contenders just played in what could be a telling game, as the Steelers and the Ravens played in Pittsburgh Sunday night. Each team has certain advantages and disadvantages that will affect their paths to Indianapolis and Super Bowl XLVI. The Ravens have had both their highs (beating the Texans and Jets, as well as the Steelers twice this season) and lows (losing 12-7 to the Jaguars on Monday Night Football). One thing that has been consistent, however, is the Ravens defense. Terrell Suggs, Ed Reed and company lead a defense that is fifth in passing yards allowed (192 yards per game) and third in rushing yards allowed (87 yards per game). The catalyst for the Ravens is inconsistent quarterback Joe Flacco. If Flacco can play in big games like he has against the Steelers (524 yards, four scores and no interceptions in two games), the Ravens would ease their way through the playoffs.

“

... (Houston) has a dominant rushing attack with the one-two punch of Adrian Foster and Ben Tate ... If Houston can handle going to the postseason, they have a shot to go far.

But if Flacco plays like he has in their two losses (less than 200 yards each game, one score and three picks), Baltimore will struggle to make it out of the first round or even to the playoffs at all. Pittsburgh, though, is quite the opposite. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has been on fire, throwing 12 touchdowns and only three interceptions in his past five games, and the defense has been fantastic (as is annually the case). The biggest problem that the Steelers have faced this season has been the injury bug. Five players have already been placed on injured reserve, and four different linebackers have already missed games, as well as five different offensive linemen. If the

Steelers get healthier and overcome the injuries, the entire conference should watch out. One other team that is a dark horse candidate and could make a run through the playoffs is the Houston Texans. Houston split games against the other two teams above (beating Pittsburgh, losing to Baltimore), and has a dominant rushing attack with the one-two punch of Arian Foster and Ben Tate. The defense has played extremely well, completely differing from past Texans teams. If Houston can handle going to the postseason (they have not gone in nine years as a franchise) and star receiver Andre Johnson can recover from a hamstring injury, they have a shot to go far. Although no AFC team has been publicized and revered as much as the Packers have, the conference has a fair amount of talent themselves, promising another fantastic Super Bowl.

BRIAN MARCOLINI -sports staff writer -junior -communication major

6 food & drink november 9, 2011

editors: chelsea gunter, patrick murphy featureseditor@collegiatetimes.com/ 540.231.9865 COLLEGIATETIMES

OURTAKE B

efore making my much-needed trip to Kroger, I decided to try out Lefty’s Main Street Grille. The small tavern-looking restaurant seemed like a perfect place to grab a quick bite before replenishing my empty refrigerator. From the outside, the green siding doesn’t make Lefty’s seem like anything special. Inside is more eccentric, with the walls covered in pictures of various famous faces, ranging from sports athletes like Michael Vick, to former presidents such as John F. Kennedy and Bill Clinton. The small whiteboard sign with a welcoming greeting indicated to seat myself. I did, and a waiter came right over after I had chosen my table. I decided to stick with my fallback of a grilled ham and cheese and chose a side of potato chips. While waiting for my food, I noticed the large, black chalkboard across the back wall listing dinner specials, soups, drinks and desserts. For such a small restaurant, its varied and lengthy menu is surprising. The bar is located right next to the specials board and has a good amount of seats for such a tight knit place. The flat screen TV — no more than 16 inches — hung above the bar so people could watch the game. My sandwich came out after about 15 minutes and was piled high with layers of black forest ham that were

efty’s

Lefty’s offers a variety of West Coastinspired dishes. The owner, a left-handed, California native, opened Lefty’s in 2004.

Blacksburg’s California-inﬂuenced grill offers an eclectic selection of foods, caters to the community’s left-handers

BEST FROZEN TREAT

BY ALLIE SIVAK | features staff writer

ust to further prove Blacksburg is a football town, a local restaurant gained national recognition because of the sport. On Oct. 11, “Sports Illustrated” published its “Ultimate College Dining Guide” for the week’s top 25 college football teams. Lefty’s Main Street Grille made the list for Virginia Tech, ranked 19th at the time. While Lefty’s may have just recently made the list, it has been around for awhile. After opening in April 2004, Lefty’s has earned its reputation with all the burgers, sandwiches, soups, salads, breakfast foods and other menu options it offers. The restaurant prides itself on the fact that most of its food is made completely from scratch, with the exception of a few select menu items. Lefty’s also revels in its distinctly West-Coast twist. Owner and California native Frank Perkovich had previously practiced law in Los Angeles, but had always toyed with the idea of opening up a restaurant. When property became available, he decided to take a chance and bring a new kind of cuisine to Blacksburg. “The menu had a huge Californian influence and was based off of a lot of restaurants I liked out there,” Perkovich said. “We were the first place in town at our price point to do new and interesting things.” These changes were initially met with a bit of pushback and skepticism. “At first, a lot of people weren’t used to these foods, but after, people went out of their comfort zone and tried what we had to offer, and word of mouth made it so there were lines out the door,” Perkovich said. “A lot of people had never heard of throwing apples, bacon and walnuts in a salad, but many have decided to give it a shot.” Meagan Sherman, a senior history major and server at Lefty’s, vouched for the restaurant’s food, and mentioned the diverse crowd the restaurant brings in. “It’s a fun place, and in the seven months I’ve worked there, I really haven’t tried anything I don’t like,” Sherman said. “The food

is really unique and delicious, and all kinds of people come here. We get tons of college students, but also see a lot of families and kids.” The unique food was not the only thing drawing customers in to the new grill, Perkovich said. Lefty’s premise is perhaps equally uncommon. As a left-handed man, Perkovich asked his two sons for advice on naming the new restaurant. One son suggested the restaurant be named “Lefty’s,” while the other came up with the name “Main Street Grille.” He combined both suggestions and deemed the restaurant Lefty’s Main Street Grille, deciding to honor left-handers. The restaurant walls are covered with various pictures of famous lefthanded individuals. Perkovich spends about a quarter of the time cooking, left-handed of course, and the rest managing the restaurant. He also works at his other restaurant, 622 North, which is located on North Main Street. He works diligently with lead cooks to develop new menu items. “We try to switch things up and make our food different, but with the same kind of feeling,” Perkovich said. “Three or four times a year, we rotate the menu so customers have new things to eat, and it stays fresh to us.” Between the rotating menu and making most menu items from scratch, Perkovich believes his kitchen has a pretty tall order. “We make all our salsas, soups and most menu items with fresh ingredients and made-to-order,” Perkovich said. It’s labor intensive, but is a huge part of the reason the restaurant does so well.” With time, Blacksburg’s range of different types of cuisine has evolved beyond the average burger and fries. Lefty’s laid the foundation for such diversity with its innovation and reasonable price range. “Eight years ago, we were a totally different kind of place. No one served mango salsas, blue cheese, avocados or any of those kinds of offbeat things,” Perkovich said. “Now places have started to copy us, which I take as a compliment. In eight years, we’ve come a long way, and we’re still growing.”

Giovanni’s & O’s Lounge Where Abella’s used to be! Open Nov 9th!

New delicious menu, Faster delivery Late night takeout, No wait! Free Wifi

Liquor license is back with new drink menu! Blackburg’s premiere dance spot Ride the mechanical bull! New interior look!

Get in free w/ your Hokie Passport before midnight (ages 21+) 540-961-1488

Free appetizers after 5

KARA VAN SCOYOC -features staff writer -freshman -university studies major

DANIEL LIN / SPPS

serves up cuisine with a twist

DANIEL LIN / SPPS

stacked between pieces of Swiss cheese. The bread, complimented with a special tarragon sour cream sauce, was toasted and held the overflowing contents of the sandwich in place. Lefty’s definitely didn’t scrimp on portion sizes. The potato chips were hot from the oven and crispy, and didn’t have the usual grease and overabundance of salt many commercial brands have. My waiter was very attentive and friendly, and didn’t rush me at all, even though there were limited tables and turnover was needed. My total came to around $8, which was incredibly reasonable, seeing as I walked away with the entire second half of my sandwich. Lefty’s is small, but the quality and quantity of its food is far from lacking. And the comfortable tavern feel makes it a great place to go for a bite to eat. The menu’s many options means you can have a different experience every time you go, and the large portion sizes equate to delicious leftovers. Don’t be deceived by its plain exterior; Lefty’s offers a unique atmosphere inside, as well as great meals.

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