The Commonwealth Times; February 6, 2019 by VCU Student Media Center

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VOL. 60, NO. 19 FEBRUARY 6, 2019

In a state of turmoil Illustration by Sammy Newman

How Northam’s political career unraveled Friday, 6:15 p.m.

11:02 p.m.

9:50 a.m.

At about 6:15 p.m., Northam issued a statement saying, “I am deeply sorry for the decision I made to appear as I did in this photo and for the hurt that decision caused then and now. This behavior is not in keeping with who I am today.”

Former governor Terry McAuliffe called for Northam’s resignation: “The situation that he has put himself and the Commonwealth of Virginia in is untenable. It’s time for Ralph to step down, and for the Commonwealth to move forward.”

6:47 p.m.

11:06 p.m.

The Senate Republican leadership reiterated that call: “The confidence of the people is essential to a governor being able to serve effectively. It is clear to us that Governor Northam no longer holds that confidence … The time has come for him to fulfill his duty and act in the best interests of Virginia by stepping down.”

Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney issued a response: “Governor Northam has a long and distinguished career history of service to our Commonwealth and nation, but he should do the honorable thing and step down.”

The Democratic leadership in the Senate called on Northam to resign: “The racism engendered by these images was real then and resurrected by these images today … it is with heavy hearts that we have respectfully asked him to step down.”

9:00 p.m. Northam issued a video apology on social media, but stated that he intended to finish his term: “I’m deeply sorry. I cannot change the decisions I made, nor can I undo the harm my behavior caused then and today. I accept responsibility for my past actions and I am ready to do the hard work of regaining your trust.”

11:00 p.m. The Legislative Black Caucus called for Northam’s resignation: “Given what was revealed today, it is clear that he can no longer effectively serve as Governor. It is time for him to resign, so that Virginia can begin the process of healing.”

NEWS Stolen corpses 4

11:15 p.m. Virginia House Democratic Caucus reiterated that statement: “We regret to say that we are no longer confident in the Governor’s representation of Virginians. Though it brings us no joy to do so, we must call for Governor Northam’s resignation.”

Saturday, 9:04 a.m. House Speaker Kirk Cox called for Northam’s resignation: “We agree with the powerful words of our colleagues in the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus and believe that because of this photo the Governor has lost the confidence of the citizens he serves.”

SPORTS Rams in D.C. 8

2:30 p.m. Northam held a press conference and said that he “reflected with my family and classmates and came to the conclusion that I am not the person in the photo.” He apologized again, but refused to step down as Governor: He said resignation would be too “easy” and he is prepared for the “difficult path that lies ahead.” “I want to apologize to the many people who have been hurt by this episode...I am ready to earn your forgiveness.”

4:48 p.m. Attorney General Mark Herring called for Northam to resign: “It is no longer possible for Governor Northam to lead our Commonwealth and it is time for him to step down.” DANIEL BERTI Capital News Service

Virginia government slips into chaos as scandals shroud political leaders FADEL ALLASSAN News Editor Inside the country’s oldest occupied governor’s mansion stays the besieged Ralph Northam — the Virginia executive around whom the walls of the dwelling are rapidly closing amid the fallout from a racist yearbook photo. The photo, from Northam’s page in the 1984 Eastern Virginia Medical School yearbook, shows a man in blackface standing next to another in a Ku Klux Klan robe and hood. Northam initially said he was one of the people depicted, but he reversed his story the next day. At a press conference Saturday, Northam denied being in the photo, but admitted he once “darkened” his face to compete as Michael Jackson in a dance competition. The admission did nothing to stop calls for his resignation coming from every direction, including from some of his closest Democratic political allies. Some protesters, who were once enthusiastic about Northam’s potential removal, now have reason to be apprehensive about his would-be successor. See NORTHAM on page 3

Infographic by Andrew Caress

SPECTRUM Black photographers 13

OPINIONS Blackface 16

2 The Commonwealth Times

Stories of the week

national: In the State of the Union Address Tuesday, President Donald Trump called for unity, saying his agenda isn’t a partisan one, but the “agenda of the American people.” international: The Kremlin says it is planning to develop new missile systems following Russia’s withdrawal from a missile development treaty with the U.S.

“This likely ends Northam’s political career” Reactions to governor’s yearbook photo

SAFFEYA AHMED Capital News Service Across the political spectrum, government officials and advocacy groups are calling for Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam’s resignation after media reports of a racist photo on his page in a college yearbook. The photo, from Northam’s 1984 medical school yearbook, features two men — one dressed in blackface and the other in a Ku Klux Klan robe. On Friday, Northam apologized for the photo. On Saturday, he said it was not him in the picture after all and that he would not resign. Ravi Perry, chair of VCU’s political science department, noted the timing of the developments, and said it likely spells the end for the beleaguered governor. “On the first day of black history month, we learn that our governor — while an adult — in 1984, dressed in racist blackface or KKK paraphernalia,” Perry said. “This likely ends Northam’s political career.” Perry said Northam has had multiple opportunities to apologize for the comments, including during his decade serving in office. “That he chose not to time and time again suggests his character is unbecoming of an elected office,” Perry said. The VCU Young Democrats condemned the photo. In a statement, the group called the photo racist. “Acts of white supremacy are unacceptable from any citizen, but especially when they come from those elected to represent us.” the statement read. “Governor Northam must answer for this bigotry, and face the appropriate consequences.” Calls for Northam’s resignation began Friday night and continued over the weekend. They came from both sides of the aisle, including Virginia Democrats, House and Senate Republican leaders and the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus. “When the racist picture first emerged Friday, we were shocked and repulsed. The photo is disturbing and offensive, as unac-

Scores of protesters have taken to the streets since Friday calling for Northam’s resignation. Photo by Erin Edgerton ceptable in 1984 as it is today,” said a statement issued by House Speaker Kirk Cox and other Republicans. “While we respect the governor’s lifetime of service, his ability to lead and govern is permanently impaired and the interests of the commonwealth necessitate his resignation.” Democratic leaders agreed. Susan Swecker, chair of the Democratic Party of Virginia, issued a statement Saturday calling for Northam’s immediate resignation. “We made the decision to let Gov. Northam do the correct thing and resign this morning — we have gotten word he will not do so this morning. We stand with Democrats across Virginia and the country calling him to immediately resign. He no longer has our confidence or our support.”

Former Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe denounced the photo on Twitter, calling the photos “racist, unacceptable and inexcusable at any age an any time.” He said Northam should resign, deeming the situation “untenable.” On Saturday afternoon, Attorney General Mark Herring said, “It is no longer possible for Governor Northam to lead our commonwealth and it is time for him to step down.” More than a dozen progressive groups — including Planned Parenthood, Equality Virginia and environmental and labor organizations — called on Northam to leave office in a statement, following his press conference Saturday. “We heard what the Governor said today and we are not only unmoved but even more disgusted in his actions and changing sto-

ries,” the statement read. “We reaffirm our demand that he must immediately resign.” New Virginia Majority, Chesapeake Climate Action Network and Progress Virginia are among other groups that have called for Northam to step down. “No matter the era, or the messenger, blackface costumes and Ku Klux Klan regalia have represented terror and fear for communities of color since Reconstruction,” said Harrison Wallace, Virginia director of the Chesapeake Climate Action Network, in a statement. “There is no excuse for wearing them.” The Commonwealth Times reporter Mary McLean contributed to this report.

Protesters have called for Northam to resign since news of the photo broke Friday. The governor reportedly told his cabinet he will try to clear his name. Photos by Erin Edgerton

Wed. February 6, 2019 3 NORTHAM FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK

Both the governor and lieutenant governor are facing clouds of political controversy. Photo by Erin Edgerton

Illustration by Steck Von

Northam denies racist photo Northam’s contradiction and says he won’t resign on racial reconciliation

Continued from front page

Monday morning, Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax launched an aggressive front against his own scandal — an allegation that he sexually assaulted a woman while working as a political aide in 2004. Fairfax faced a gaggle of reporters at the statehouse, denying a woman’s allegations that he sexually assaulted her in 2004, implying the allegations are an attempt to preclude his potential rise to the governorship. “Does anybody think it’s any coincidence that on the eve of potentially my being elevated, that that’s when this smear comes out?” Fairfax told reporters. Fairfax never held political office before serving in his current role, but worked as an aide to Democratic vice presidential candidate John Edwards during the time the alleged incident occurred. He described a sexual encounter he had with the woman to reporters as “100 percent consensual.”

It’s not just affluenza, but ‘powerfluenza. We are telling you in unified voice that you are not the leader we want. Resign now.” Tatiana Seryán Center for Popular Democracy

A reporter in the gaggle insinuated the possibility that Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney, who could be a potential opponent to Fairfax for the Democratic governorship nomination in 2021, may have played a role in the allegations surfacing. “You’re a great reporter,” Fairfax responded. “This insinuation is 100 percent not true. Period,” said a spokesperson for the mayor to The Washington Post. The events have put Capitol Grounds in a state of disarray, as Northam was reported to have met with his cabinet Monday morning to tell them he would stay in office for now to clear his name. But for the protesters outside the Governor’s Mansion during the reported meeting, that idea would have been unacceptable. The crowd of several dozen was

matched in number by the myriad news outlets covering the group, but the message was strong: the governor has to step down. For these dissidents, many of whom held signs objecting to the governor’s environmental policies, the photo was only the latest in a pattern of objectionable actions by the governor. Representatives of left-leaning social and political groups lined up to denounce the governor for actions that span from the beginning of his term to the last Saturday’s press conference. To them, Northam’s claim that he knew he was not in the photo because he remembers appearing in blackface another time wasn’t convincing. “Your complete lack of racial sensitivity did not allow for you to understand why this was a problem,” said Andrea Noller, reading a statement directed at Northam to the crowd of protesters. “You betrayed our trust and under these circumstances, cannot continue to be our governor.” Noller is an activist with the Virginia Poor People’s Campaign. She was also among the many speakers at the makeshift rally for whom the recent events serve as a proxy to dissect a year’s worth of the new governor’s politics. Pointing to the governor’s departures from liberal positions to compromise with Republican colleagues, Noller said Northam could not be expected to act in the best interest of people of color in the commonwealth. Among these was a deal struck between the parties to raise the state’s felony larceny threshold from $200 to $500 last year, despite liberal members of the legislature favoring a larger increase. “Racist politicians create racist policies and uphold racist systems,” Noller said. Tatiana Seryán, with the Center for Popular Democracy, likened the governor’s refusal to step down to “an illness which plagues many politicians in office today.” “It’s not just affluenza, but ‘powerfluenza,’” Seryán said. “We are telling you in unified voice that you are not the leader we want. Resign now.” For Ana Edwards, a founding member of the Virginia Defender, a quarterly community newspaper, Northam is just the tip of the iceberg. The Democratic Party, Edwards said, is responsible for poor leadership in Virginia. “It’s time we hold them accountable on all levels, including who they support to put in office,” Edwards said.

Photo by Erin Edgerton

FADEL ALLASSAN News Editor In the exact moment the public was made aware of a yearbook photo appearing to depict Gov. Ralph Northam in blackface standing next to someone in a Ku Klux Klan hood, his governorship and legacy became void. The story has since led national news broadcasts and has even managed to muzzle a news cycle dominated by presidential hysteria. The Eastern Shore native, who at first admitted he was in the photo, has since denied it. In a bizarre press conference Saturday, he said he initially believed he was in the photo, but after looking at it further, he determined it was not him because he distinctly remembered a different time he did blackface. In 1984, Northam darkened his face with shoe polish to compete as Michael Jackson in a dance contest. After a reporter asked Northam whether he could still moonwalk, the governor appeared to contemplate busting out into a dance, before his wife reigned him in, saying “inappropriate circumstances.” Northam, despite striking a contrite tone, probably did more damage than good at the press conference, which could have doubled as a template for politicians on how not to handle scandal. But one point during his press conference was particularly self-defeating for the governor entering his second year in office. Northam highlighted the chasm America faces on race, and said the state needs to begin the process of healing. “I believe this moment can be the first small step to an open discussion about these difficult issues,” Northam said, “and how they contribute to the greater racism and discrimination that defines so much of our history.”

There is nothing inherently wrong with Northam’s statement that Virginia needs to have a conversation about race. If anything, it aligns with standard political platitudes on these issues. But his refusal to resign from office contradicts the entire notion. If Virginia needs to work on reconciling its shameful history on race, then an elected leader who has lost credibility on the matter in the most spectacular and embarrassing way could not possibly direct this effort. Before the photo’s surfacing, Northam seemed legitimately committed to racial equality. His election was viewed by many as a rejection of the politics of stoking racial fear, something Ed Gillespie, Northam’s opponent for the governorship in 2017, appeared to repeatedly do. The former doctor was elected partly off the strength of black voters, who represent a fifth of the state. He secured almost 97 percent of the vote in districts that consist of at least 95 percent black voters. In black neighborhoods, volunteers worked tirelessly knocking on doors and making phone calls in support of someone they believed was in their corner. Now, Northam’s tenure will be viewed as another chapter in Virginia’s amiable historical relationship with white supremacy. Every continuing moment of his governorship is a slap in the face to black Virginians who so vigorously supported him. Recognizing this, the black leaders of Virginia’s Democratic Party have almost unanimously left his corner. “This is deeply disappointing and offensive,” said Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney, one of Northam’s closest allies, before calling on the governor to step down. Congressman Donald McEachin, D-Henrico County, drew connections to slavery and the Massive Resistance movement which fought to keep schools segregated, both of which found a home in Virginia. “In light of that stain on our commonwealth and the work that still needs to be done, I ask the governor to step aside,” McEachin said in a statement. “Virginians have too much to overcome and too much healing yet in front of us.” Northam faces two choices to define his place in history, and he’ll favor neither of them. He can answer the many calls asking him to resign in disgrace, or he could deprive Virginia of legitimate leadership as he sees out his term. Either way, he has lost all credibility.

4 The Commonwealth Times

Stolen corpses

Inside MCV’s cruel history with black bodies CHRIS WOOD Contributing Writer Almost 25 years ago, construction workers discovered human remains in a pit at the Kontos Medical Sciences Building at MCV. Those remains turned out to belong to black people whose bodies and corpses were used without consent for experiments and research during the 18th and 19th centuries. The bodies are suspected to have been brought to the medical school that later became the Medical College of Virginia, taken by grave robbers known to target black cemeteries. The remains were discarded — along with clothes and medical tools — inside a well until their discovery in 1994. In 2012, the Department of Anthropology in the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History conducted an anthropological examination that confirmed the remains of at least 53 bodies — 44 were estimated to be 15 years old at the time of death. The other nine were age 14 or younger. The mistreatment of black corpses by medical professionals in the past has been known to lead to distrust of medical research in the African-American community. For example, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported research at the Tuskegee Institute from 1932 to 1972 involved withholding treatment from African-Americans with syphilis who were never informed they were infected. A Louisiana State University review concluded that the Tuskegee Study was “ethically unjustified,” because the study was conducted without the patients’ informed consent. And even though penicillin became the drug of choice for syphilis in 1947, the researchers never gave participants the choice to quit study to begin the widely-used treatment of penicillin at the time. The East Marshall Street Well Project formed its committee in 2013 to research and develop ways to reconcile the site’s

Richard Lower’s labaratory at MCV. The surgeon was the first to perform a heart transplant in 1968. Photo courtesy of Kevin Morley, University Relations history and memorialize the remains aphelp carry out the Eastern Marshall Well propriately. The committee released its final Street project development and future recommendations in December 2018. proposals. The recommendations have been ac- • Four memorial sites be established withcepted; the project is now in the process in or near the Konto’s Building, along of forming three steering committees with a memorial and interactive learning comprised of VCU faculty and Richcomponent at the burial site itself. mond residents. Each committee will • An annual memorialization practice focus on one of three areas: research, should be held by VCU medical students. memorial and interment. • The remains be interred either at the AfKevin Allison with VCU’s Office of rican Burial Ground site near I-95 or at the President said that in February, the Evergreen Cemetery. steering committees will review committee members nominations, choose memA BLACK HEART FORGOTTEN bers, and then begin working through their recommendations. In 1968, Bruce Tucker, an AfriThe EMSW Project recommended the can-American patient, was brought to the following: hospital after a brain injury from a fall. According to the book “Transplanta• A study be conducted on the history tion Ethics” by Robert Veatch and Lainia of the well site in Richmond to show Roos, Tucker was unconscious and, 24 the experiences African-Americans have hours later, cut off from his respirator had in the medical field. and pronounced dead. Doctors made no • A research advisory board be created to attempt to contact family to decide if he

should be kept alive or if his organs could be donated. Tucker’s heart was then used in the first successful heart transplant at MCV performed by Dr. Richard Lower, even though he was not listed as an organ donor. VCU celebrated the transplant’s 50th year anniversary last year on Feb. 1 with an event series. The university’s VCU News coverage of the event didn’t mention Tucker. In “Flesh and Blood: Organ Transplantation and Blood Transfusion in Twentieth-Century America,” Susan E. Lederer writes that MCV chair of surgery at the time, Dr. David Hume, suggested that doctors should be immunized for racial scrutiny because they provide “free” care in a state institution. Hume told a reporter, “[Doctors] should be the last ones picked on over racial matters.” Bruce Tucker’s brother, William Tucker, later sued the hospital for $100,000 for wrongful death, saying that the transplant team was engaged in a “systematic and nefarious scheme to use Bruce Tucker’s heart and hastened his beath by shutting off the mechanical means of support.” Tucker’s attorney was then-state senator L. Douglas Wilder, who later became the first black governor of Virginia. While the verdict exonerated the doctors from wrongful death, it helped establish the official legal definition of brain death, according to the MCV Foundation. University spokesperson Michael Porter called the transplant “a part of VCU’s history.” “The past treatment of certain patients based on race is an unfortunate element of our legacy,” Porter said. University spokesperson Michael Porter called the transplant “a part of VCU’s history.” “The past treatment of certain patients based on race is an unfortunate element of our legacy,” Porter said.

VCU grad becomes Richmond Times-Dispatch’s first female opinions editor NAOMI GHAHRAI Contributing Writer

has previously come under scrutiny for what some have described as insensitive content, including an editorial cartoon it EMMA NORTH ran last year that mocked the separation Contributing Writer of families at the southern border. Bill Oglesby, a journalism professor at VCU, A VCU graduate will be the next opin- said the new hire could be a chance for ions editor for Richmond Times-Dis- the RTD to abate its content. patch, becoming the first woman to ever hold the position. RTD announced Pamela Stallsmith will replace Editorial Pages Editor Bob Rayner, who will retire in March. Stallsmith currently serves as the director This is a wonderful of communications for the VCU Wilder opportunity to win back School of Government and Public Affairs some of those readers and will start her position with RTD Feb. 18. She worked as a beat reporter on state with a more moderate politics for the RTD for 19 years, from voice.” 1988 to 2007. “We are fortunate to have Pam reBill Oglesby join us at a time when informed, knowlVCU journalism professor edge-based opinion has never been more in demand,” said Tom Silvestri, RTD president and publisher in the “Many people have felt the RTD opinpaper’s announcement. ions page has been unrepresentative of the The opinion section of the historic people of this area for most of its exispaper — which has operated under its tence,” Oglesby said. “This is a wonderful current name for more than a century — opportunity to win back some of those

readers with a more moderate voice.” Stallsmith began her career in 1988 at Lynchburg’s The News & Daily Advance. In her extensive reporting career, she has won nearly 100 national and state awards in communications and writing. Stallsmith studied communication and politics at Randolph-Macon Woman’s College, which became Randolph College in 2007. She then received a master’s degree in mass communications from VCU and a mini-MBA certificate from University of Richmond. The fact that Stallsmith is the first female opinions editor at Richmond Times Dispatch reflects the gender disparity in American journalism. Women constituted more than two-thirds of graduates with degrees in journalism or mass communications, according to a 2013 survey conducted by the University of Georgia. However, in 2018, women made up about 40 percent of newsrooms, according to the American Society of News Editors, which surveys newsroom diversity. Women held top-three editor positions in 63 percent of newsrooms in 2015, according to ASNE. “Pam is a consummate writer, reporter and communications professional,” said

Pamela Stallsmith will start in her new role this month. Photo courtesy of VCU June Nicholson, a VCU journalism professor. “I feel sure she will bring to her new role as head of the [RTD] opinion section the same commitment to truth and the highest standards of journalism and communications that she has shown throughout her career.”

Wed. February 6, 2019 5

Mayor Stoney announces eviction diversion program, city improvement plan at annual address HANNAH EASON Contributing Writer

Our city is more than ready to move on from its past and should not be afraid of its future.” Levar Stoney Richmond mayor Stoney’s speech included details of three Richmond schools opening in 2020, and a 20-year plan to renovate Richmond schools with $800 million. Stoney also called on the state legislature to increase school funding, following an education rally held at the Capitol Jan. 28. “We must acknowledge, the commonwealth has failed to do their part,” Stoney said. “The state needs to step up and acknowledge the true cost of education includes many items not adequately included in their funding formula.” Stoney said teacher salaries, school facilities, technology, nurses, counselors and bus drivers need sufficient funding. The Richmond mayor, in his third year in office, announced the establishment of the Shockoe Alliance, a collaborative effort of city government members and Shockoe Bottom residents to design and plan the

The mayor, in his third year in office, will present a budget to City Council for approval in March. Photo by Jon Mirador future of the Shockoe Bottom area. In the spring, the alliance will announce a “vision forward” for the Shockoe area, Stoney said. Shockoe Bottom was home to one of the largest slave trades in North America prior to the Civil War. “Telling the true story of the tragic history that occurred in Shockoe can be the most inclusive histor y told anywhere in America,” Stoney said. Stoney’s plans for his third year in office also include renaming Boulevard after tennis player and humanitarian Arthur Ashe. City Council will vote on the plan Feb. 11. Before Stoney took office in 2016, Richmond’s score on the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index, which measures a localities responsiveness to the LGBTQ community, was 46 out of 100. In efforts to improve that rating, Stoney and councilmembers Parker Agelasto and Ellen Robertson launched Richmond’s first Human Rights Commission last year. Richmond’s rating is now 94 out of 100. Richmond’s unemployment rate has dropped to 2.9 percent from 4 percent in 2016. The median household income rose 5 percent, one of the highest increases in the nation, Stoney said. Last year, Richmond saw an 8 percent decrease in overall violent crime. The homicide rate dropped 20 percent. Stoney plans for all Richmond police officers to be certified in crisis intervention within two years. “These aren’t quick fixes, some of these things are 20 years out,” said Mak Afework, deputy director of VCU Athletics, who attended the address. “It’s impressive how much he’s accomplishing in only two years.”

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Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney announced the details of new programs aimed at eviction diversion and city improvements in his annual State of the City address Jan. 31. At his speech at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Stoney announced an eviction diversion program and a 20year capital improvement plan. Stoney highlighted the city’s accomplishments and mapped out his future plans — some of which span 20 years. “We are investing in our people, sharing in our prosperity and creating a place where people want to live, work and raise a family,” Stoney said. “Our city is more than ready to move on from its past and should not be afraid of its future.” The eviction diversion program will provide financial literacy education, access to supportive services and a payment plan for landlords who lose rent during the eviction process. It will be the first program of its kind in the commonwealth. Other strategies to reduce eviction include court mediation and pro bono attorneys to support tenants. “We cannot expect our families and children to thrive,” Stoney said, “if it takes everything just for them to survive.” Richmond City Council member Chris Hilbert said he supports the program, which will be presented to the council in March as part of the mayor’s proposed budget. The meeting is yet to be scheduled. “The stability of a home is one of the most important things,” Hilbert said. “We talked about education, and that’s certainly important, but without a stable home it’s hard to study and learn while you’re in school.” The city budget also includes a 20-year capital improvement plan, which will invest resources in streets, community centers and city transportation.

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6 The Commonwealth Times

As part of Give Kids a Smile Day, children lined up to attend an event staffed by students dressed as toothbrushes and toothpaste tubes. Photo by Jon Mirador

School of Dentistry provides free children’s dental care ANYA SCZERZENIE Contributing Writer Smiles shined brightly Feb. 1 as School of Dentistry students dressed as toothbrushes and toothpaste tubes to host Give Kids a Smile Day, an event providing free dental care to children without dental insurance. Families with children waited in line at the VCU School of Dentistry to receive free teeth cleanings, exams and other dental services. Though many of the families the event had been there before, some were first-timers. “This is my first time here,” said 13-yearold Ashley Caravalli. “I go to a normal dentist. But I decided to come because I heard that today they were doing a free dentist service.”

“And I have a cavity that they’re going to take out!” her 8-year-old brother Christopher interrupted, excitedly showing off his teeth. Tables staffed by student volunteers lined the halls leading to the exam rooms. They provided oral health instruction, educational games and free oral hygiene supplies to children ranging from infants to teenagers. Spanish interpreters were also available for families who required them. “It’s a really good way to show the community how much we care,” said Patrice Gray, director of marketing and continuing education at the School of Dentistry. “Our students teach kids how to floss and brush, and how to take care of their mouths.”

Give Kids a Smile Day is an annual event sponsored by the American Dental Association and is held on the first Friday of February, kicking off National Children’s Dental Health Month. In order to be eligible for care, parents have to show that they don’t have dental insurance for their children. “We’ve seen an increase in people who are uninsured,” Gray said. “It may be because their employers don’t cover it, or they may be self-employed, or for other reasons.” The event sees approximately 100 to 180 children each year. Last year, GKAS Day performed 130 dental exams. These included 35 tooth extractions, 101 cavity fillings, 20 crowns and one root canal, as well as ordinary cleanings and fluoride treatments.

In total, the dentists saw 130 patients and provided nearly $60,000 worth of care. “We get a lot of repeat folks,” Gray said. “You get attached to the people who come every year. They grow up with us.” While practicing dentists provided the dental care, students volunteered at the education tables to teach children how to clean their teeth through educational games and instruction. “Some of the kids aren’t even scared of the dentist,” said Dhwani Patel, a dental student who volunteered at the event. “I was really scared of the dentist as a kid. I think it’s changing now.” Patel, in her second year of the dentistry program at VCU, hopes to become a general practice dentist, so she can work with both adults and children.

The event sees between 100 and 180 students every year. Last year, staffers performed 130 dental exams and 101 cavity fillings. Photos by Jon Mirador

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8 The Commonwealth Times

Stat of the week

Richmond was the No. 2 viewing market for the Super Bowl Feb. 3 with a 52.6 rating, behind Boston at 57.4.

Rams head to D.C. after winning two in a row

Sophomore forward Sean Mobley recorded 5 points Feb. 2 against George Mason. Photo by Erin Edgerton NOAH FLEISCHMAN Sports Editor

got some work to do.” In the latter meeting, current Memphis Grizzlies two-way player Yuta Wanatabe After a Feb. 2 win over George Mason, scored a game-high 23 points. Terry Nolan 79-63, coach Mike Rhoades turned his Jr. added 18 points in the second meeting attention to Feb. 6 as the Rams prepare as well. to travel to Washington, D.C., to play The Colonials are a young team this season, George Washington. as they do not have any seniors on the roster. “When you win an A-10 game, it makes Rhoades said that Illinois transfer DJ the next one bigger,” Rhoades said after the Williams will be a tough cover, but VCU’s win. “So now we got to go on the road, won defense is going to make it hard for him. the last two, and this is a really big one be“He’s just such a versatile player,” Rhoades cause it’s the next one — period.” said during his weekly press conference. “He Last season, VCU (15-6, 6-2 Atlantic can shoot it, he can really get to the rim, find 10) split its meetings with the Colonials (7- ways to score, draws a lot of fouls. He’s a 14, 3-5 A-10) as the Rams won at home guy we’re going to pay a lot of attention to.” 87-63 and lost 80-56 on the road. Williams leads the Colonials as he aver“It’s a tough place to play and they ages 14 points this season after sitting last smacked us last year,” Rhoades said. “So we season due to NCAA transfer rules.

Nolan Jr. averages 11.7 points this season in his sophomore campaign for the Colonials. “He really hurt us last year,” Rhoades said. “He made shots and he made plays against us last year. We are well aware of him and we got to make sure that we don’t let him get easy one’s early in the game again and get a ton of momentum.” Justin Mazzulla, also a sophomore, is third on the team in scoring as he averages 10.3 points. He leads George Washington in assists with 70, steals with 26 and a shooting percentage of 44 percent. The Rams counter the Colonials with the No. 7 defense in the nation, according to Kenpom, holding opponents under 60 points nine times this season. VCU held George Mason 2-for-19 from beyond the arc Feb. 2, the Patriots’

second-worst night shooting from three this season. The Rams’ HAVOC defense forced 15 George Mason turnovers and logged seven steals and six blocks. “It’s hard to replicate [VCU’s defense],” Patriots coach Dave Paulsen said after the Feb. 2 game. “I think more than anything, they wore us down in the half court … that’s an outstanding complete defensive group.” The Rams held George Mason star Justin Keir 1-for-10 from the field as he finished with five points. He was 3-for-7 from the free-throw line.

Junior guard De’Riante Jenkins averages 11.7 points this season. Photo by Erin Edgerton.

Redshirt-junior guard Marcus Evans, left, averages a team-high 13.7 points this season. Sophomore forward Marcus Santos-Silva, right, averages a team-high seven rebounds a game this season. Photo by Erin Edgerton.

Men’s Basketball is in action against the Colonials Feb. 6 at 7 p.m. in Washington D.C. and on the road at St. Bonaventure Feb. 9 at 2 p.m.

Wed. February 6, 2019 9 RAM IN ACTION

Hattix-Covington’s ‘smooth recovery’ leads to playing time BEN MALAKOFF Contributing Writer

bench production, we can’t go in if the starters do good and [we] give up points.” Many Women’s BasketBut against Saint Louis ball fans looked forward to Jan. 27, Hattix-Covington seeing redshirt-freshman was finally given the opporguard Madison Hattix-Covtunity she had been waiting ington play for the Rams last for over a year. Coach Beth season after she was ranked O’Boyle gave Hattix-Covone of the top-40 guards in ington her first career collethe nation out of high school. giate start. But a foot injury quickly “I was ver y ner vous ended last season’s hopes for the first game,” Hat— she redshirted the year. tix-Covington said. “But Hattix-Covington watched after the first minute, I a disappointing 7-22 Womthink I calmed down and en’s Basketball season. got into it.” “It was very difficult menHattix-Covington tally and physically,” Hatstarted because Reed was tix-Covington said. “It was injured, who she normalvery hard [to recover]. At ly replaced off the bench. first, I couldn’t do anything.” Reed is also the teammate While her teammates Hattix-Covington said practiced on the court or helps her the most. in the weight room, Hat“We play the same potix-Covington could only sition,” Hattix-Covington work to recover from her said. “Just playing behind injury. her. Coming on the court, “When I could recover, she’ll tell me where to go.” it was underwater treadHattix-Covington mill, weights, balance to get Redshirt-freshman guard Madison Hattix-Covington made her first career also gives a lot of credit my foot back stable,” Hat- start against Saint Louis Jan. 27. Photo by Shayla Bailey to O’Boyle who kept her tix-Covington said. “Then I involved even during her had to get my right leg back even with left comes off the bench. season-ending foot injury. leg because loss of weight.” “Our bench players, we play a big role,” “She has been a big influence,” HatSince her recovery, Hattix-Covington Hattix-Covington said. “Our starters, they tix-Covington said. “Even before I was has played a big role on the team as she can’t play full a game, they get tired. And our in the boot, she always made sure I was

involved in practice in some way. And now that I’m out of it, she makes sure I am good with my foot all the time. Makes sure I am going to rehab if I need to. She is always pushing me and telling me I am doing good.” The road to recovery for Hattix-Covington was a difficult period. But since then, the transition from last season has been trouble-free.

When I could recover, it was underwater treadmill, weights, balance to get my foot back stable. Then I had to get my right leg back even with left leg because loss of weight.” Hattix-Covington, redshirtfreshman guard “It’s been pretty smooth,” Hattix-Covington said. “I got cleared when I got back during the summer. Those were my first official workouts with the team being 100 percent cleared. So I think it went pretty smooth going in.”

Track and Field breaks records over weekend MEN’S

Redshirt-junior jumper and hurdler Track and Field set multiple team re- Bashir Idris was one of four Rams to cords at the Liberty Flames Invitational break school records on Saturday after he Feb. 2. won the triple jump with a leap of 15.12 meters — breaking a record held by Davion Lambert that hadn’t been matched WOMEN’S in 12 years. Sophomore jumper Aliyah Newman Freshman hurdler JeVon Waller earned won the triple jump after recording a second-place finish in the 60-meter 12.44 meters, beating VCU’s previous re- dash with a personal-best time of 6.88. cord of 12.29 meters logged by Chaneka Senior sprinter Jamik Alexander finished Perry in 2012. fifth overall in the event with a time of Senior thrower Camora Sanders contin- 7.03, narrowly missing out on fourth place ued her stellar season with a second-place by thousandths-of-a-second. finish in the shot put with a throw of 15.19 Freshman hurdler Daiqwaun Faircloth meters — her second school record set this ran a personal-best time of 22.04 in the year — and freshman thrower Shannon 200 as he raced to a fourth-place finish. Moise set a freshman shot put record with Junior distance runner Lucas Sidle a 14.09-meter throw. and sophomore mid-distance runner JorJunior sprinter Kayla Smith finished dan Fountain both placed top-five in the in second in the 400-meter dash with a 1000-meter run. Sidle finished in third time of 55.36 — the best time posted in place with a time of 2:31.95 and Fountain the event by any VCU woman this season. finished fifth with a time of 2:33.11. Junior sprinter Kara Lyles and senior Junior hurdler Ian Davis earned a secmid-distance runner Ashley Greenlee ran ond-place finish in the 60-meter hurdles in the 500-meter. Lyles won the event by with a time of 8.15. Davis was joined 0.07 seconds with a time of 1:15.80, and by freshman sprinter Emmanuel Waller, Greenlee place just behind her in third Faircloth and junior sprinter Chukwuezuwith a time of 1:16.32. go Aguolu on the 4-x-400 relay team that Junior mid-distance runners Ashley took second place with a time of 3:23.38. Brown and Judith White competed in the 1000. Brown finished second with a Track and Field will travel to Lexington, time of 2:58.86, only 0.35 seconds behind Virginia for the VMI Winter Relays Feb. 8-9. first place, and White finished third with a time of 3:01.06.

ANDY RIDDLER Contributing Writer

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10 The Commonwealth Times

Rams down Hawks in Philly ADAM CHEEK Staff Writer Women’s Basketball extended its win streak to three after a Feb. 3 victory over Saint Joseph’s, winning by 18 points in a 65-47 road blowout. The Black and Gold shot 22 of 53 from the field and 33.3 percent from 3-point range, continuing a run of victories with significant margins. The Rams scored more than 60 points for the ninth time this season. Sophomore guard Tera Reed led the way, racking up 18 points in almost 30 minutes on the floor. Reed was also 7-8 in free throws, adding four rebounds and one assist. The Rams dominated the game, taking a 13-7 lead to the end of the first quarter and a 28-23 advantage into halftime. VCU extended its lead to 13 points by the end of three quarters, putting up nearly 20 more in the final frame to seal the victory. Junior guard Nyra Williams spent more than three quarters’ worth of time on the floor, tallying six assists and two rebounds, despite putting up just one basket on the board.

RAM STAT Women’s Basketball recorded six steals and four blocks against Saint Joseph’s. Redshirt-freshman guard Madison Hattix-Covington scored 10 points, leading in rebounds with eight and contributing one assist. Meanwhile, sophomore guard Taya Robinson added two blocks to the Rams’ total of four, with freshman forward Kseniya Malashka and junior center Danielle Hammond adding one apiece. Both teams finished the game with six steals, with VCU taking bragging rights on total blocks, assists and turnovers. The Black and Gold dominated the Hawks in rebounds, racking up 39 to the Hawks’ 23. VCU and Saint Joseph’s tied in free

Sophomore guard Tera Reed scored a team-high 18 points against Saint Joseph’s Feb. 3. Photo by Shayla Bailey throw percentage at 66.7 apiece, though the dropping to a 31.2 percent. Hawks, who kept pace early but withered as Rams had 24 opportunities, twice as many Saint Joseph’s struggled from the field, the game wore on. as the Hawks. making only 17 of 48 attempted shots for a The Rams also emerged with the better percentage just above 35. VCU went 22-53 Next, the Rams will face off away against St. 3-point percentage, making five of 15 — from the field, totaling 41.5 percent. The Bonaventure Feb. 6 at 7 p.m. or nearly 67 percent — while the Hawks Black and Gold also scored 37 points in the had one more attempt but failed to execute, second half, a 13-point upper hand over the

Junior guard Nyra Williams recorded six assists in the Feb. 3 win over the Hawks. Photo by Shayla Bailey

Freshman forward Kseniya Malashka scored 6 points and logged four rebounds against Saint Joseph’s. Photo by Shayla Bailey

Wed. February 6, 2019 11 PRESS BOX

NFL vs. MLB: Baseball’s declining popularity NILE MCNAIR Contributing Writer

the 2018 MLB draft, MLB executives and coaches had high praise for him. Murray’s Heisman-Trophy-winning former Oklahoma baseball Oklahoma quarterback and coach compared him to outfielder Kyler Murray was star outfielder Andrew Mca two-sport athlete in college, Cutchen. displaying tremendous talent Former executive Jimmie in both football and baseball. Lee Soloman said if MurWith excellent perforray chose baseball, he would mances in both sports, Murray not see the major leagues is an MLB and NFL prospect. for a couple of years as he But Murray is a quarterback, would work his way up the so he cannot play both sports minor league. professionally. Quarterback is The pay in the two sports often considered the hardest for star players is similar, but position in sports, and because baseball stars can make more Murray’s 5-foot-9-inch height money than star football puts him at a disadvantage, he players over time. Murray cannot spend time playing could make his decision on baseball while trying to deNFL draft night, when he velop as a quarterback. figures out how much his In June 2018, Murray NFL contract will be worth. was selected ninth overall by The NFL knocked the Illustration by Steck Von the Oakland Athletics and MLB off its pedestal as signed a $4 million contract “America’s Greatest Pastime” with the team shortly after. Despite that, leaning toward football, despite the fact Playing in the NFL is a major risk for long ago. But now the change has trickMurray declared for the NFL draft six that he’s more likely to succeed in baseball. Murray. But as a baseball player, Murray led down to the athletes themselves — months later. There has never been a quarterback of that could be a star. the MLB cannot even attract an athlete Murray’s decision shows that he is height who has excelled in the NFL. Before Oakland selected Murray in who is clearly better for the sport.

Women beat Davidson, men fall to ETSU

JARON NUTTER Contributing Writer WOMEN’S

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Senior Arvid Noren won his singles match against ETSU in three sets. Photo by Jon Mirador

Amantegui followed up with another doubles victory after defeating Juan Lugo and Chris Mikrovas, 6-2. For the first singles point of the day, senior Arvid Noren defeated Lugo in No. 3 singles, 2-6, 6-2, 7-5. ETSU’s Yusuf Khamis defeated sophomore Inigo Torre Martin in No. 4 singles in three sets 6-1, 5-7, 7-5. Stable defeated Fontcuberta in three sets — 4-6, 6-4, 1-0 (15-13) — to win VCU its third point of the match, but it was not enough to win. Coach Anthony Rossi expressed disappointment after the match. “We had another good day in doubles but MEN’S started slow in singles,” Rossi said. “We have The Rams were defeated by ETSU Feb. to give credit to ETSU. They stepped up and 1 in a 4-3 finish during their return to the were the better team at the end of the day.” Thalhimer Tennis Center. Senior Philip Mobuis and junior Ina- Next week, Women’s Tennis will take on ki Rivero Crespo defeated ETSU’s Sergi Maryland at home Feb. 9 at 11 a.m. Men’s Fontcuberta and Miguel Este in the first Tennis will travel to Philadelphia Feb. 9 to doubles victory of the match, 6-1. Soph- take on Penn State at 10 a.m. omore Rayane Stable and junior Javier

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Women’s Tennis defeated Davidson 7-0 Feb. 3 in its first Atlantic 10 match of the season, moving VCU to 3-2 on the season and handing Davidson its first loss. Sophomores Paola Exposito Diaz-Delgado and Kanako Yano defeated Davidson’s Samantha Armas and Alexandra Abele for the first doubles victory of the match, 6-2. Exposito Diaz-Delgado also provided the first singles win of the day with her victory over Megan Scholvinck, 6-1, 6-2. Another Rams pair took a doubles victory, with senior Anna Rasmussen and sophomore Melissa Ifidzhen dominating Davidson’s Scholvinck and Elizabeth Truluck, 7-6 (10-8). Junior Noumea Witmus defeated Alyssa Hahn in two sets — 6-0, 6-1 — scoring another singles point for the Rams. VCU dominated in singles play, outscoring Davidson 73-24. Coach Paul Kostin said he was impressed with the Rams’ performance. “We played really well in singles today which was nice to see,” Kostin said. “In doubles, we started out great but had a hard time finishing Davidson off. It came down to No. 1 doubles, who won in a tie break. Overall, it was a good performance by the girls.”

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12 The Commonwealth Times

On this day

In 1952, Queen Elizabeth II succeeded King George VI to the British throne. Her reign has now lasted 67 years.

Photographer Maya Jackson’s “Ghost(3),” pictured above, alludes to double consciousness, a concept coined by W.E.B. Du Bois in 1903. The image is included in “The Art of Freedom” at the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia. Photo by Erin Edgerton

Student photographer addresses double consciousness in group exhibition

ANDREW RINGLE Spectrum Editor In the background of a layered, blackand-white photograph, a blurred subject casts an expressionless glance toward the viewer. The face of the same subject gazes upward in the foreground, as if something greater hovers nearby. The conceptual self-portrait titled “Ghost(3),” one piece in a three-part series, depicts expressions of identity and psychology in the context of race. Created by VCU senior and photographer Maya Jackson, “Ghost(3)” is included in the latest gallery at the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia, “The Art of Freedom.” The gallery, which opened Jan. 19, prompts Virginia-born and Virginia-based artists to express what freedom means to them. “Ghost(3)” answers with a discussion of what it means to be free at home and abroad. Jackson said her work fit with the gallery’s theme well — as soon as she read the prompt, she felt her work related to it. Her self-portrait is the third image in “Ghost,” a series Jackson created in Germa-

ny last year on a trip abroad with VCU’s photography department. “Ghost(3)” alludes to double consciousness, a concept coined by sociologist and author W.E.B. Du Bois in his 1903 autoethnography, “The Souls of Black Folk.” Jackson said she wanted to explore double consciousness both physically and psychologically. “People of color can have two personalities, or two consciousnesses, which they operate under,” Jackson said. “One which is internal within themselves, and the other which is how other people see them and expect them to act. This work deals with that by using self-portraiture and saying, ‘Am I free because I feel free? Or am I free because other people expect me to be free?’” This analysis of double consciousness physically forms through Jackson’s medium. Using 35 mm infrared black-and-white film, she captures unseen reflections of light and invites the viewer to see beyond the veil of the natural world. “Infrared film is sensitive to infrared wavelengths of light, which is usually invisible to the naked eye,” Jackson said. “So it’s about hidden images and

what’s seen and what’s not seen, similar to double consciousness.” By using infrared film in a self-portrait, Jackson showed the ways light reflects off her own skin. She used the same film to document her family members, which prompted her to experiment further with the medium. “Historically, film wasn’t made for people of color,” Jackson said. “It would either wash them out or make them so dark they’re unseeable. I thought this film was interesting because it makes me appear lighter.” There are many ways to define freedom, and Jackson said the classic definition revolves around self-expression. But her personal definition is rooted deeply within her art and in the message it conveys. “For me, it’s about reaching a wider audience,” Jackson said. “I think of the art of freedom as not only being free to do and move how you want to move, but letting your art be free and letting it speak for itself.” “Ghost(3)” and “The Art of Freedom” will be on display at the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia until May 19.

VCU senior and photographer Maya Jackson works with self-portraiture to explore themes of identity, psychology and internal personality. Photo by Erin Edgerton

Wed. February 6, 2019 13

UPCOMING EVENTS See something

THURS. 2/7 Opening Reception: “It Either Is Or Isn’t” Visit Quirk Gallery and enjoy Seth Bauserman’s first solo exhibition. This show considers human complexity and explores the way identity changes over time. Bauserman is a 2017 recipient of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts Professional Fellowship. 5-8 p.m., Quirk Gallery (207 W. Broad St.) Free.

“Patience and Perseverance” features published work from African-American photographer James Van Der Zee. The images were first released in “The Black Photographers Annual.” Photo by Erin Edgerton

Patience and Perseverance

VMFA exhibit honors historic work of black photographer IMAN MEKONEN Contributing Writer

Film Screening and Panel Discussion: “Run Wild Run Free”

Join VCU’s Center for Environmental Studies for a screening and panel discussion of “Run Wild Run Free,” a film about the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act and the people who supported it. Request a free ticket at rvaeff.org. 6:30-8 p.m., Institute for Contemporary Art (601 W. Broad St.) Free with ticket.

FRI. 2/8 Opening Reception: “Unmasked: A Visual Dissection Part II”

ast november, the virginia museum of Fine Arts opened an exhibit show casing a collection of photographs by African-Americans in the early 1900s in New York City. The images are from “The Black Photographers Annual,” a photography collection released in four volumes between 1973 and 1980. The black-owned publication, co-founded by Beuford Smith and Joe Crawford, provided black photographers an outlet to share their often-overlooked artistic talents. Works from almost 50 artists were included. The museum’s gallery features excerpts from the fourth volume of the publication, focusing on self-taught African-American photographer James Van Der Zee. His black-and-white prints let viewers catch a glimpse of African-American life in the 1920s and 1930s. A quote from Van Der Zee sits at the entrance of the exhibit, given to the annual’s editors when he was 94. When asked about any advice he would give to young photographers, Van Der Zee said, “patience and perseverance.” This quote inspired the name of the exhibition, “Patience and Perseverance,” which includes Van Der Zee’s work from the fourth and final volume of the annual. “The Black Photographers Annual” emerged from the Black Arts Movement in the late 20th century, right after the civil rights movement. Van Der Zee’s black-and-white photographs highlighted and complimented the skin tones of his African-American subjects during a time of racial tension and inequality. “I always tried to show the better side of life,” reads a quote from Van Der Zee on a plaque in the exhibit. “They said the camera doesn’t lie. I used to make it lie.” When photographing the lives of African-Americans in Harlem, he created a positive image of black identity to counter the negative stereotypes influenced by the oppression and segregation African-Americans faced. His backdrops were often painted and complemented by Victorian furniture to support his vision. Throughout the ‘60s and ‘70s, successful African-Americans weren’t recognized. Van Der Zee, along with the other photographers featured in the annual, aimed to illustrate black people in a way that had never been done before.

THURS. 2/7

VCU graduate Nickolai Walko will present his work, which captures anatomical subjects in a unique hybrid form combining classical drawing and pop art. Refreshments will be served and local band Vertical Dimension will perform. 5:30-7 p.m., Tompkins-McCaw Library (509 N. 12th St.) Free.

Do something

WED. 2/6 Chao House

Join the Vietnamese Student Association for its first Spring Chao House in celebration of the Lunar New Year. Enjoy games and food while learning about Vietnamese culture. For more information, visit vsavcu.org. 6:30-8:30 p.m., Room 1004A, West Grace South (835 W. Grace St.) Free.

FRI. 2/8 Jazz 4 Justice

James Van Der Zee photographed African-Americans living in Harlem in the early 20th century. His black-and-white prints captured the lives of these families and individuals. Photos by Erin Edgerton

This concert will feature performances from VCU jazz ensembles with Mayor Levar Stoney as a guest conductor. Ticket prices include one drink and hors d’oeuvres. Guests are invited to bring their instruments and participate in a jam session after the show. 8 p.m., W. E. Singleton Center for Performing Arts (922 Park Ave.) Prices vary, student discount available.

Learn something

WED. 2/6

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Rental Workshop

Join Off Campus Student Services for a seminar on finding and renting your first apartment. Learn about deposits, budgets, tenants and more. 4-5 p.m., Suite 229, University Student Commons (907 Floyd Ave.) Free.

TUES. 2/12 Pop Culture vs. the ‘Olympics of Suffering’: Slavery and the Holocaust as One American Horror Story

One photograph in the exhibit, titled “The Graduate,” shows a young, dressedup black man with a smile on his face, which represented his pride in his accomplishments.

“Patience and Perseverance” is on display at the VMFA until May 11. All four complete volumes of “The Black Photographers Annual” are available online at vmfa.museum

Join the Department of African American Studies and the Judaic Studies program for a talk led by Danielle Christmas, Ph.D. The seminar will explore the presence of Nazis and slaveholders in the media, using FX’s “American Horror Story” as a reference. 6-7 p.m., Richmond Salons I and II, University Student Commons (907 Floyd Ave.) Free.

14 The Commonwealth Times

Local band returns, debuts psychedelic music

People’s Blues of Richmond are currently on a tour of the East Coast. With songs like “The House on Oregon Hill” and “Richmond City Hangover Blues,” the band has carried an element of their hometown along with them. Photo courtesy of Joey Wharton

QUENTIN RICE Contributing Writer

NEW EXHIBITIONS OPENING FEBRUARY 16 Cauleen Smith: Give It or Leave It Dialogues | Irena Haiduk + Martine Syms Student “Happy” Hour Feb. 16, 12-3 pm | $1 Blanchard’s coffee with ID

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Richmond’s beloved psychedelic blues band People’s Blues of Richmond have returned with two new singles titled “Journalist” and “I Don’t Give a Damn.” Currently on their east coast tour, PBR plans to release a new record before the end of the year. Comprised of guitarist and vocalist Tim Beavers II, bassist Matt Volkes and drummer Neko Williams, PBR’s sound is a wonderfully strange and demented wedding of so many different worlds. It’s as if Les Claypool, Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix started a pop punk outfit. The trio released their first full length album, “Hard On Blues” in 2010. At this point, their sound was mostly informed by blues rock legends such as Led Zeppelin and Lynyrd Skynyrd. These influences remained alongside more theatrical elements in their 2013 album, “Good Time Suicide,” featuring album artwork from Richmond artist Thomas Robertson Forester. The band’s sophomore record plays like a demented circus, weaving in-and-out of drunken swooning verses and manic, bombastic choruses. Beavers said the record is meant to replicate the extreme ups and downs that cocaine users experience — local favorite “Cocaine Powder” is rife with cocaine puns. 2016’s “Quit or Die” fully embraces the twisted circus aesthetic, both visually and sonically. Featuring art of a disgruntled circus clown by Richmond artists James Callahan and Andre Shank, the album details the struggles of getting and staying sober. Although PBR’s sound is constantly changing, the Richmond element has never wavered in their work. “Sometimes the places we live are in songs, like ‘The House on Oregon Hill,’”

Beavers said. “Or sometimes they’re just inspired by daily life in Richmond, like ‘Richmond City Hangover Blues.’” The circus music label, Volkes said, comes from a desire to entertain above all else. “Part of the idea is about the environment we want to create for the show-goer,” Volkes said. “We want to be entertaining, psychedelic, manic and kind of dark, all at the same time.” Certain songs such as “Just Tears” have a slight reggae hue, which no doubt comes from drummer Williams. “My dad actually used to play the drums for The Wailers,” Williams said. “So I grew up listening to a lot of reggae music. Even some local Richmond reggae bands, like Awareness Art Ensemble and The Razor Posse.” PBR’s new singles return to the band’s classic form, featuring the familiar manic-depressive structure and huge southern rock guitar tones. Beavers’ vocals on “Journalist” combine some of the neurotic and uptight deliveries of punk legends like Ian MacKaye with the storytelling blues crooning of Bob Dylan. The band is uncertain about a release window for their next LP, but they are aiming for a 2019 release. They also plan to debut some unheard tracks on their ongoing east coast tour. “We’ve got a lot of songs that haven’t even seen the studio yet,” Williams said. “When we get back to The Broadberry, there’ll be a lot of tunes you won’t know the names of.” PBR will travel from South Carolina to Colorado on tour before returning to Richmond April 13 to perform at The Broadberry. Showtimes and tickets can be found at peoplesblues.com. The band’s new singles can be found on their SoundCloud page, PeoplesBlues.

Wed. February 6, 2019 15

BRANDON’S ANGLE

Everything is Average: “The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part” lacks the pieces that made the first so special BRANDON SHILLINGFORD Contributing Writer “The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part” sequels one of the most beloved and critically acclaimed animated films of the last five years, as well as a string of Lego film spinoffs. And while the newest installment is amusing and sometimes ambitious, it feels like a two-hour Lego advertisement. The sequel to 2014’s “The Lego Movie” continues the story of Emmet who must rescue his girlfriend Lucy, voiced by Elizabeth Banks, after she is kidnapped by the evil Queen, Tiffany Haddish’s Watevra Wa-Nabi. Emmet, voiced by Chris Pratt, is accompanied by his friends, comprised of a returning star-studded cast — including Will Arnett, Alison Brie and Nick Offerman — in a quest to save Lucy and stop the impending catastrophe, “Ar-mom-ageddon” that threatens to end their world. There are multiple points between the catchy songs, buoyant performances and stellar animation when the film feels like it could have a more meaningful conclusion. But because of a weak narrative and a con-

fusing third act, the movie ends up leading the viewer to a much more muddled and underwhelming climax than expected. Don’t get me wrong, “The Lego Movie 2” isn’t a bad movie. The first act impresses and has some of my favorite jokes from any of the previous Lego films. The film’s first half-hour makes it seem like it will give its predecessor a run for its money. But the rest, like most sequels, simply doesn’t justify its own existence. “The Lego Movie 2” doesn’t build on any of the characters’ relationships or motivations from the first — many of them just repeat the same arcs as the first time around. The first Lego movie was a bold artistic statement with an exceptional sense of humor and self-awareness, and it had a clear set of goals. It completely blindsided and absolutely dumbfounded audiences, but it was OK because it was outstanding. The second carries many of the same qualities with a sparkling script from producers Phil Lord and Chris Miller, who returned from the first to co-write, but not direct, the sequel. The incredibly charming cast and its sharp sense of humor still reside,

Illustration by Emely Pascual

but this film falters in its lack of direction. The “Lego Movie 2” tries hard to regain that remarkable spark from the first film. It proves entertaining in its execution and attempts to intelligently tell a story, which automatically makes it better than most modern animated films. But the film’s in-

sistence on following formula and avoiding meaningful risks makes it a disappointing entry into a franchise that is quickly losing steam. Everything is indeed, not awesome. “The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part” releases Feb. 8.

LANDON’S OUTLOOK

“Stan & Ollie” captures essence of renowned comedy duo LANDON ROBERTS Contributing Writer In the last decade, comedy has become more complex and layered via social media. The excessive satire and sarcasm behind every viral meme leaves many craving for a simpler time in comedy. “Stan & Ollie,” the biopic about the silent film stars Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy, somehow fills that craving while also offering a heartwarming story at its core. “Stan & Ollie” picks up 16 years after Laurel and Hardy left Hollywood, following a split between the comedic duo. The film follows their attempt at creating a revival with a European tour. However, the fleeting actors must overcome their past betrayal and health concerns. The pure comedic timing that Laurel and Hardy had is present in the actors who portray them. John C. Reilly as Oliver Hardy brings the bumbling gentle giant to complete fruition. Every time the film presents the duo’s on-stage routine, you can see the love and admiration Reilly has for Hardy. His performance never seems imitated. The accent, makeup and mannerisms are perfect, contributing to the documentary-style accuracy of the film. This is only heightened when the

Illustration by Summer McClure

film focuses on their off-stage relationship. The way Reilly is able to switch from Hardy’s clumsy on-stage persona to his loving, damaged off-stage reality makes it feel like he is playing two separate roles. This echoes Hardy’s real-life struggles, and it creates sympathy for the downfalls of fame. Reilly’s performance isn’t the only one that succeeds. Steve Coogan as Laurel offers his own complex performance. This mostly comes from his eyes and the small facial expressions which show incredible affection for Hardy. His acting

is especially effective during the weightier scenes, where you see the comedian consumed by sadness. The heart of the film resides in the way Laurel questions his own actions, and the effects they will have on the duo. Without these scenes and his performance as a whole, the chemistry between them would be non-existent. Their chemistry shines through their recreations of classic Laurel & Hardy on-stage routines. All of these skits enable gut-busting laughter with underlying pain. The happiness that they

exude while on stage is slowly absorbed by the pining of their past glory. This makes the final moments of the film compelling and inspiring, eliciting tears of joy. While these scenes of on-stage performances are incredibly funny, a montage of the performances in the second act derails the pacing. Prior to the montage, the duo is facing their fading popularity and by the end of it, they have regained their success. If this had been fleshed out a bit more, it would have made the issues presented in the final act feel more important and impactive. Another issue that makes the film stumble a bit is its direction and cinematography. A lot of the set pieces seem faux, and the basic shot reverse shot presentation gives the film a cheap, unpolished feel. Under the strange pacing and cheap presentation still lays a truly heartwarming and inspiring story about friendship and fame. The fantastic performances capture all of these themes while also transporting you back to the pure humor of Laurel and Hardy’s chemistry.

16 The Commonwealth Times

Quote of the week

The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth upon them. — Ida b. wells

Don’t apologize for alleged blackface with confirmed blackface

BRIANNA SCOTT Opinions Editor

Racist. Resign. Impeach. These are the words being thrown around after a racist photo surfaced from the medical school yearbook page of Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam. Two men are in the 1984 photograph, one dressed in a Ku Klux Klan robe and the other in blackface. But Northam denies being either person in the photo, despite apologizing for appearing in it at first. Of all days, the photo leaked on the first day of Black History Month. Amid the bustling news cycle of 2020 election bids, the end of the government shutdown and controversial third-trimester abortions debates, all eyes are on Northam. I, like a lot of other Richmonders, voted for Northam not knowing this part of his past. And somehow, I didn’t even bat an eye when the photos surfaced. I wasn’t surprised. I’m never surprised when a white person

Racism isn’t dead or a thing of the past — it’s looming over us, and that photo is a stark reminder of that fact.” Brianna Scott, opinions editor has a racist past, if I’m being candid. But I understand the hurt and pain my fellow

Illustration by Ryan Rich

black community feels all too well — especially those who voted for Northam, trusted him and felt let down. But we can’t forget Americans elected a racist for president. If being racist were grounds for resignation or impeachment, Donald Trump would no longer run the country. Racism is beyond what we just observe with our eyes; it manifests itself in microaggressions, through legislation and what we deem as “acceptable racism.” Allowing someone like Northam, or worse, in office condones racism as long as you give a halfbaked apology. Protesters have been gathering at the

Capitol since Friday, urging Northam to resign. Since the photo leaked, Northam’s actions point toward incompetency, and his public relations team isn’t working hard enough to restore his image. Northam originally apologized for the yearbook photo for all the “hurt” it has caused. And in the same breath says it isn’t his photo; it was mistakenly placed on his yearbook page. But in his public apology at a bizarre press conference Saturday, he admitted to “darkening” his face with “a little bit” of shoe polish when he dressed up as Michael Jackson for a dance contest. But that wasn’t blackface, according to him.

Northam couldn’t even remember Jackson’s name and probably would have moonwalked in front of dozens of reporters if his wife didn’t murmur “inappropriate circumstances” to him. You can’t apologize for alleged blackface with confirmed blackface, governor. Northam’s refusal to resign is understandable — he doesn’t want to be painted as a racist for the rest of his political career and being called racist is obviously worse than being racist. But he can’t successfully lead Virginia when more than 20 percent of Virginians are black. His supporters have dwindled and many fellow Democrats have condemned him including former Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe, Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney and Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax. Trump even called Northam’s actions “unforgivable,” but that’s the pot calling the kettle black. This photo is only 35 years old. Racism isn’t dead or a thing of the past — it’s looming over us, and that photo is a stark reminder of that fact. Whether Northam is the one in blackface or the one in the KKK robe, someone is in that photo and we should care just as much about their racist actions as our governor’s. Racism is never an accident, and when people who have committed racist actions are in positions of power, it furthers America’s already historically white supremacist power structure. As a piece of advice to Northam, take accountability for your actions and truly understand the weight they carry. Your pride shouldn’t get in the way of what’s best for Virginia. Virginians are taking a clear stance by protesting and condemning the governor they once campaigned so hard for.

An Ode To Self Care SHAUN JACKSON Staff Columnist

I think it’s great that you’re in a stable healthy relationship. In the grand scheme of things, it’s really good to have partners who can help you figure out what a healthy relationship looks like and how you operate in that dynamic. At any age that’s rare to find. I think you should also take a step back and realize you’re the type who’d feel like you are missing out either way. I recently found a very close friend’s boyfriend on Tinder and I’m kind of stuck between “none of my business” and, of course, saying something to her. How do I navigate this?