Political campaigns don’t respect ‘Hokies’
Above the ramps leading to the stands of Virginia Tech’s Lane Stadium, the school has painted an inspirational motto, “Hokies respect the moment, the opponent, the game, themselves and the competition.”
It might want to add “intellectual property” to the list of things that deserve respect. Every few years, Virginia’s political parties and candidates violate Tech’s and other public schools’ trademarks, and Republicans are up to it again this year.
Continue reading editorial writer Christian Trejbal’s column.
Christian Trejbal, The Roanoke Times
7 Comments »
RSS feed for comments on this post.
Larry Hincker is a paid employee (press secretary) at Virginia Tech. He has no authority do anything other than issue statements. Unfortunately it has become evident in recent years that the University Board and Administration are unprepared to set an example of honor and integrity for the University community. Who the “rules” apply to depends on a cynical calculus unworthy of the Virginia Tech legacy. We need new, strong, leadership.
Comment by Robert — September 16, 2012 @ 9:40 am
As a alumnus of Va Tech I believed I was entitled to refer to myself as a hokie. Apparently Mr. Trejbal would deny me the right to so identify myself as such if I openly hold some political view of which he does not approve. Is it possible that the board of visitors member whom he chastises has a better grasp of this distinction in the use of the word hokie than does Mr. Trejbal?
Comment by Tom R. — September 18, 2012 @ 7:32 am
I agree 100% with Tom R. The bumper stickers say “Hokies for Romney/Ryan”–implying that the sticker owner is part of a SUBSET of all Hokies-the subset being those who support Romney/Ryan. It does NOT say “All Hokies are for Romney/Ryan” or imply that the university endorses one candidate. DUH. How far will this ridiculousness of the press go?? It makes me sick.
Comment by Vicki — September 18, 2012 @ 2:45 pm
Hey, where can I get one of those stickers??
Comment by Allie — September 18, 2012 @ 4:40 pm
For those who are criticizing Mr. Trejbal’s column, be aware the the US Patent Office considers the term “Hokies” to be Virginia Tech’s. See http://www.roanoke.com/news/nrv/wb/298024
Comment by Matt — September 18, 2012 @ 7:09 pm
http://jhpolitics.com/2012/09/vt-targets-hokies-for-romney-ryan-bumper-stickers/
Yea I’m pretty sure I’m a Hokie & that’s what my sticker says! So how can “I” b in violation w copywriter! I had some idiot leave a note on my car today saying that my car sticker is in copywriter violation! That republicans don’t abide by law like we say!!! Pretty sure it doesn’t say Virginia Tech! & pretty sure they should stay away from my property! Wish I had 3 more bumper stickers to put on!!!!
Comment by April Dow — September 22, 2012 @ 12:20 am
Agree with #3. It must have been a slow day, Christian, for you to write about bumper stickers. Then again, we’re all too familiar with your obvious bias reporting. I am pleased to display a “Hokies for Romney/Ryan” on my car because I am a Hokie. It is not a broad statement meant to imply that ALL Hokies or Virginia Tech support any particular candidate. I am a Hokie and an American who believes our country is in desperate need to vote out the current occupant of the White House. Romney/Ryan 2012!
Comment by catsmeow — September 23, 2012 @ 7:59 am