The Commonwealth Times; Oct. 24, 2018

THE INDEPENDENT PRESS OF VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY VOL. 60, NO. 10

COMMONWEALTHTIMES.ORG OCTOBER 24, 2018

the basketball issue

Freshman guard P. J. Byrd (24) was named District 20-6A Most Valuable Player as a junior and senior in high school. Redshirt-junior forward Issac Vann (23) started 18 games last season. Photo by Shayla Bailey

HAVOC RETURNS Annual inter-squad exhibition kicks off 2018 Men’s Basketball season JESSICA WETZLER Sports Editor VCU held its annual Black and Gold Game to kick off the start of the 201819 basketball season and introduce the new team at the Siegel Center. Splitting into two squads of seven, a gold team and a black team played for two 20-minute periods for a crowd of more than 3,000.

The gold team consisted of junior

guards De’Riante Jenkins and Mike’L Simms, sophomore forwards Sean Mobley and Marcus Santos-Silva, freshman guard P. J. Byrd and senior guard Xavier Jackson. Redshirt-junior guard Marcus Evans sat out due to an Achilles injury that occured in June.

The black team, which won the scrimmage, included redshirt-sophomore forward Corey Douglas, freshman guard KeShawn Curry, junior guard Malik Crowfield, redshirt-senior

forward Michael Gilmore, redshirt-junior forward Issac Vann, freshman wing Vince Williams and sophomore guard Dylan Sheehy-Guiseppi.

The first half began as Byrd coasted to a layup, starting off the scoring for the gold team. Byrd remained quick on his feet during the first and second halves and scored nine points, tying with Curry for third-most scored.

See BLACK AND GOLD on page 6

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Mo’ Playing Time

Meet the Squad

International MVP

Former star-forward Mo Alie-Cox The CT broke down the 2018 edition is beginning to see snaps for the of HAVOC with descriptions of every Indianapolis Colts in his second NFL Men’s Basketball player. season.

Freshman forward Kseniya Malashka was named MVP of the U18 European Championships in Division B.

2 The Commonwealth Times

Stories of the week

national: About 30 people at a homecoming party thrown by Clemson University students Sunday were injured after the floor collapsed, creating a crater in the host’s apartment building. international: A march of more than 7,000 Honduran refugees and other Central American emigrants — known as the “migrant caravan” — arrived to Mexico this weekend to seek asylum.

Vice President Mike Pence visits Richmond, endorses Ryan McAdams JESSICA WETZLER Sports Editor Vice President Mike Pence joined about 200 Republican constituents from Virginia’s 4th District Saturday in support of congressional candidate Ryan McAdams and to express his confidence in “rebuilding our nation.”

“Virginia and America needs Ryan McAdams in Congress,” Pence said. “Not only are we looking at a great day in America, but we are going to take back the 4th [District].”

The Ryan McAdams for Congress campaign announced Oct. 16 that there would be a rally and reception with Pence in attendance at the SunTrust Center on East Main Street. Upon his arrival, Pence was welcomed by Rep. Dave Brat (R-Va.,7th District) and 5th District GOP nominee Denver Riggleman.

During the rally — which lasted more than two hours — Pence said he was there for three reasons: the candidate, the midterm elections and the strides already made by the Trump administration.

“Ryan McAdams is a man with character and integrity and vision that we need,” Pence said. “I would have been here if he were unopposed — he is just that quality of a person. Ryan McAdams will be a leader from the day he arrives [in office].”

During his 20-minute speech, Pence spoke about when he received the call from President Donald Trump asking him to be on the presidential ballot. Trump highlighted contested issues like unemployment and border security during his call.

Pence also called McAdams’ opponent, incumbent Rep. Donald McEachin (D-Va., 4th District), “one of Nancy Pelosi’s most loyal attendants and a person who doesn’t represent the values, vision or principles of the people in the 4th District.”

“It’s not just a choice from two candi-

Congressional candidate Ryan McAdams (left), who has the endorsement of Vice President Mike Pence (right), is the Republican challenger to incumbent Rep. Donald McEachin for the 4th District of Virginia. Photo by Erin Edgerton dates, it’s really a choice from two different majorities,” Pence said. “I was in Congress the last time Nancy Pelosi was Speaker of the House, and you never want that to happen again.”

Pence left the stage asking for one final favor — that the crowd pray for not only Trump, but those surrounding him.

Pence was joined by chairman of the Virginia GOP Jack Wilson, Senior Pastor of New Life Harvest Church and Chief Apostle Leon Benjamin, Chesterfield Fraternal Order of Police president Kevin Carroll and former Virginia Gov.

Bob McDonnell, who introduced Pence at the rally.

Wilson spoke first at the event. He said the Democratic agenda was not a matter to worry about.

“I have really seen recently a surge in our enthusiasm for our Republican candidate,”

The president is ‘making America great again’ and it’s time to make the 4th District great again. People are hungry for change in the 4th District. We are going to win this race on Nov. 6.”

Ryan McAdams, 4th District GOP Candidate

McAdams’ rally garnered the support of the chairman of the Virginia GOP, the president of the Chesterfield Fraternal Order of Police and a former Virginia Governor.

Photo by Erin Edgerton

Wilson said. “The Democrats and their allies and the liberal media would love to talk about this blue wave that is supposed to be rolling across the country. I don’t see it in Virginia.”

Benjamin, the chairman of the republican party of the City of Richmond, was greeted by a cheering crowd in his opening statement, during which he spoke about low unemployment rates and how Trump is “the greatest president of all time.”

“History is about to be changed because of us,” Benjamin said. “Richmond has made

a clear sign that they want change.”

In the 2016 presidential election, more than 80,000 Richmonders voted for Hillary Clinton — as opposed to about 15,000 for Trump — according to data reported by the Associated Press.

Benjamin also urged the crowd that Virginians must mobilize to make a difference on election day in wake of Pence’s visit. “[Pence] would have not come here to waste his time,” Benjamin said. “He is here for a reason because he believes there needs to be a change in the 4th District. Change is here, change has come.”

Carroll formally announced the endorsement of McAdams by the Chesterfield Fraternal Order of Police, after saying the Order had not endorsed a candidate in more than 20 years.

McAdams made a brief appearance during the rally, presenting a 10-minute speech to describe himself as not being a “career politician” and went on to accuse Democrats of gerrymandering in Virginia, calling McEachin “absent and aloof.”

McAdams echoed Trump’s rhetoric in some of his remarks.

“The president is ‘making America great again’ and it’s time to make the 4th District great again,” McAdams said during his opening remarks. “People are hungry for change in the 4th District. We are going to win this race on Nov. 6.”

Journalists were told “no media” by organizers, but those with tickets were able to attend as members of the public.

Commonwealth Times staff received prior email confirmation that a reporter and a photographer would be allowed to cover the event.

Wed. October 24, 2018 3

BASKETBALL BREAKDOWN VCU plays seven teams this season that appeared in the 2018 NCAA Tournament. VCU went 0-6 against these sides in the regular season last year, losing to the University of Rhode Island once in the regular season and again in the A-10 tournament. VCU did not play Wichita State University or the College of Charleston last year.

Most Difficult Stretch: Dec. 5 - 22

At Texas – Dec. 5 The Rams travel to Austin, Texas to complete their home-and-home with the Longhorns. This matchup has additional significance as the UT head coach Shaka Smart led VCU to its only Final Four appearance in school history in 2011.

Texas defeated VCU 71-67 at the Stu last season.

At Virginia – Dec. 9

P.J. Byrd said he leaves his team’s success this year up to God and thanks Men’s Basketball fans for their support.

Photo by Shayla Bailey

VCU basketball freshmen adjust to life on and off the court LOGAN REARDON Staff Writer For many VCU students, being a freshman is hard enough. For Men’s Basketball guard P.J. Byrd and Women’s Basketball forward Lauryn Thompson, however, the combination of sports and academics has made college life incredibly busy so far.

With the 2018 regular season starting Nov. 6, VCU Basketball has been hard at work practicing with its new recruits. For Byrd, juggling school and sports has been harder than he thought it would be.

“Knowing that you’ve got to do school, [which is] mandatory, all the other things like working out so much — I didn’t really understand how much the workload was gonna be,” Byrd said.

Thompson, on the other hand, said transitioning from high school to college has been busy, but not in a bad way.

“When you’re super busy all the time, it keeps you from thinking about other stuff,” Thompson said. “It’s pretty easy to balance when you have a schedule to follow. I think it becomes routine, so I just stick to my schedule to make things easier for myself.”

Thompson’s main reasons for coming to VCU are Richmond’s diversity and the large basketball fanbase.

“I love Richmond,” Thompson said. “I’m from the suburbs of Dallas, Texas, where you can’t walk many places. This new environment is a joy for me. Also, the support that the basketball team gets here is unmatched and it’s amazing.”

Byrd said he chose VCU because he was already close with basketball personnel.

Some of the team’s current coaching staff used to work at Rice University, only a short distance from his home in Houston, Texas.

One of Thompson’s favorite places in Richmond, so far, is the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Byrd, on the other hand, said he hasn’t been to many places in Richmond besides the VCU Basketball Development Center — the $25 million practice facility

opened in 2015. However, he said his second-favorite spot on campus is the James Branch Cabell Library.

“It’s really big,” Byrd said. “It has a lot of space so you can really isolate yourself if you need to.”

Both players’ favorite places to grab a bite to eat are off-campus restaurants. Byrd’s favorite is Asado off of Broad Street, while Thompson’s is Mama J’s on 1st Street.

I really think we’re a very good team when we’re at our best and focused. It’s in God’s hands what happens this season, but I really think we can make a run and really bring a lot of noise into VCU.” P.J. Byrd, freshman Guard When it comes to their basketball careers, Byrd and Thompson said they bring energy to their new teams.

“I think I bring a lot of speed, which is big for VCU,” Byrd said. “They like to run and gun and get up the floor — and me having a lot of speed really helps them with that.”

Thompson said she brings a constant stream of motivation to her team.

“I play on edge and have a non-stop motor,” Thompson said. “I’m always bringing energy on and off the court and that is a very key part of a team.”

Both freshman, however, had different opinions as to who was ultimately in charge of their team performances this season.

Byrd said his squad’s collective success is up to a higher power.

“I really think we’re a very good team when we’re at our best and focused,” Byrd said. “It’s in God’s hands what happens this season, but I really think we can make a run and really bring a lot of noise into VCU.” For Thompson, her teammates’ support is key.

“I think, regardless of rankings, we are in charge of our season and how successful we will be,” Thompson said. “I believe we can go far and we know there’s a lot of work that will have to be put in so we can come out on top.”

Byrd said the support of VCU students during games will also be a key ingredient to the team’s success.

“You know we really love when fans come out to cheer and have fun at the game,” Byrd said. “That really ignites us to play because there’s a lot of days where we’re tired and we get a little fatigued because of our workload, but we build off of their energy.”

Thompson said she likes it when fans show support around campus.

“Just keep helping spread the word of when we have games and to actually come and support us,” Thompson said. “Also, when you see us on campus don’t be afraid to say hey or say ‘good game’ — small things really go a long way.”

The Rams travel 75 miles west to Charlottesville to take on the defending Atlantic Coast Conference Champions and 2018 NCAA tournament No. 1 overall seed, the Virginia Cavaliers. UVA made dubious history last year, becoming the first No. 1 seed to lose to a No. 16 seed when it was soundly defeated by the Retrievers from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. UVA defeated VCU 76-67 last season.

Vs. College of Charleston – Dec. 15 Don’t sleep on the Cougars amid this daunting stretch. Although COC doesn’t hold the same name recognition of the Rams’ other three opponents on this season-defining run of tough competition, they were, simply put, better than VCU last year. Charleston earned an automatic bid to the Big Dance in 2018 by winning the Colonial Athletic Conference. The 13-seeded Cougars gave 4-seeded Auburn University a run for its money in the first round, falling to the Tigers by a slim 62-58 margin. Believe it or not, Charleston will probably be favored in this showdown at the Stu.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Vs. Wichita State – Dec. 22 A matchup with the WSU Shockers will be the Rams’ third and final game against a 2018 tournament team in VCU’s difficult non-conference schedule. The Shockers made the NCAA each of the last seven seasons. VCU defeated WSU in the first round in the 2012 tournament — the last time the programs met.

Key A-10 Stretch: February 9 - 19 Perhaps the toughest A-10 stretch for VCU will be when the Black and Gold take on 2018 tournament teams St. Bonaventure (Feb. 9) and Rhode Island (Feb. 19). Sandwiched between these games is a first meeting with archrival the University of Richmond at the Siegel Center Feb. 13 and a road trip to Dayton Feb. 16.

This could be the most pivotal stretch this season for VCU as it hopes to rejoin the NCAA tournament this year. VCU went 1-5 against these teams in the 201718 regular season.

Byrd, along with Thompson, describes himself as a motivational force for the team. Photo by Shayla Bailey

4 The Commonwealth Times

New York Times science writer discusses history of influenza EMMA NORTH Contributing Writer Gina Kolata, a science writer for The New York Times, visited VCU Oct. 17 to give a lecture as part of the Sanger Series — a line-up of guest speakers by VCU Libraries and the VCU Office of Research and Innovation.

Kolata — an award-winning journalist and science writer — presented “The Influenza Epidemic of 1918” at the James Branch Cabell Library. University students and faculty, high school students and local community members attended her discussion during the 100-year anniversary of the deadly outbreak.

“It was an epidemic that reaped devastation, it’s really hard to imagine,” Kolata said.

“If a similar epidemic happened today it would kill more people in a single year than all the [medical] major killers combined.”

Kolata originally studied science and received her master’s degree in applied mathematics from the University of Maryland, College Park. In 1973, she became a journalist and started working for The New York Times in 1987.

“I don’t mind sharing with you that I’m an unabashed fan of Ms. Kolata and have been literally for decades,” said Dr. Michael Donnenberg, professor in VCU’s School of Medicine.

Kolata also spoke about her book “Flu: The Story of the Great Influenza Pandemic of 1918 and the Search for the Virus That Caused It.” Referring to the horrors of having the flu 100 years ago, Kolata explained how people died after being infected with the disease.

“A blood-tinged saliva would bubble from the victim’s mouth and the person would die by drowning as the lunges filled with red fluid,” she said.

Kolata referred to the story of the pandemic as a “murder mystery.” Her book explains how, after the flu pandemic spread worldwide, scientists Jeff Taubenberger and Johan Hultin found traces of the virus in preserved human remains.

Gina Kolata (center) visited Prof. Alix Bryan’s journalism class to hear story pitches before her presentation.

Photo by Emma North “When they found it, it was fragmented Despite the high global death toll, Koand broken into hundreds of pieces,” Ko- lata said there were only three suitable pieces of human remains infected with the flu for Taubenberger and Hultin to investigate — chunks of lungs from two U.S. soldiers and an obese Alaskan woman, because the permafrost and her body fat If a similar epidemic preserved her lungs. happened today it The death count was estimated at 50 would kill more people million, 675,000 of which occurred in the U.S, according to the Centers for Disease in a single year than Control and Prevention. all the [medical] major However, the virus seemed to disappear killers combined.” with its victims. Following the pandemic, no traceable remains of the particularly Gina Kolata, New York deadly strain were apparent.

Times writer “We still don’t know why one particular strand of flu could be more deadly than any lata said. “But there is no doubt what they other,” Kolata said. found was the real thing.”

Event and Programs Coordinator for

VCU Libraries Gregory Kimbrell said it is baffling to think that such a widespread disease could simply go away.

“It just disappeared into history,” said Kimbrell, who helped plan the Sanger Series event. “We talk about all these other diseases and disasters [nowadays] that I guess are more glamorous.”

In addition to speaking at the library, Kolata attended a VCU mass communications class before her lecture. In class, she listened to student story pitches and provided feedback, encouraging them to make sure all stories are sending an important message.

“I write for myself,” Kolata said. “If it fascinates me, I should make it fascinating to [readers], too.”

Richmond Coliseum future in question, misses opportunity for major tournament MACKENZIE LABAR Contributing Writer The Richmond Coliseum is no longer being considered as a host for significant NCAA basketball tournaments — among other sporting events — calling into question the future of the 48-year-old city landmark.

According to House Bill 1237, the Richmond Metropolitan Transportation Authority (RMTA) is authorized to construct, own, and operate coliseums and arenas.

Although the 2016 bill allows RMTA to construct a plan for replacing the coliseum, no further steps have been taken in the two years since the bill passed. This leaves the coliseum operational but seemingly undesirable — illustrated by a lack of events and sports gatherings such as indoor football games with the Richmond Raiders and West Virginia Roughriders.

“Roughly, it’s $800,000 to $1 million each year to try to make sure we’re covering all the costs of [the coliseum’s] operation,” said Richmond City Councilwoman Kim Gray. “We should be imagining a more re-

gional facility that everybody shares in the benefits of having, but they also share the costs of building.”

Gray also spoke on this public dislike for “shiny object projects” — she said investing in projects like the Washington Training Camp and Main Street Station is inappropriate given the need for school development and sidewalk construction.

“It seems to be a real focus that we always want to build these nice, new facilities for event venues,” Gray said. “And we’re not investing in current school infrastructure at the level that we need to be.”

One of the public opinions regarding the local reputation of the coliseum is that it’s never had events that appeal to local young people, according to VCU sophomore and Richmond native Grayland Smith.

“The coliseum never really had appealing events to go to, at least for me,” Smith said. “The sports aren’t relevant, the [surrounding] area isn’t the best. So I definitely understand why [the city would] want to start over.”

Gray said a plan for mass city development was proposed by wealthy Rich-

Proposed plans for the coliseum’s replacement include a new hotel, parking deck, apartments or a new Department of Social Services building. Photo by Erin Edgerton monders that included an improved coli- breaks $1 billion and — with seven votes seum, a new hotel, more than 2,000 new needed to push it through City Council — apartments, a new parking deck and a po- the plan’s future remains uncertain. tential new building for the Department of Social Services. However, the plan’s cost

Wed. October 24, 2018 5

Wings clipped: City Council considers fate of electric scooters KATHERINE BOLLER Contributing Writer Richmond City Council unanimously delayed until November a vote on an ordinance that would allow dockless motorized scooters to continue operating in Richmond.

The Oct. 16 meeting included discussions on potential permits and regulations for parking Bird electric scooters on sidewalks.

Bird is a company based in Santa Monica, California that operates scooters across the country. The app-based scooter-sharing system — which placed scooters throughout Richmond in August — allows riders to pick up and drop off scooters virtually anywhere without the need of a docking station.

“Birds are really useful because it’s hard to commute across campus quickly sometimes,” said VCU student Rishi Talati.

Despite the scooters’ success among users, the city initially responded by impounding many of the vehicles. Bird is in violation of city code, which states that parking an unattended motor vehicle on a sidewalk is prohibited.

The company plans to bring scooters to roughly 150 public and private colleges as part of a “University Pop-Up Tour,” announced in August. Colleges are encouraged to contact Bird to bring the vehicles to their campuses. The company scattered dozens of scooters around the VCU campuses and downtown area without approval from the university or City of Richmond.

Currently, any scooter found illegally parked in a city right-of-way will be towed and may not be reclaimed until charges are paid by the company. Bird has run up $32,000 in city fines so far.

Mayor Levar Stoney proposed a oneyear pilot permit program. If passed, implementation of the program would begin in January. Any scooter-sharing company wishing to have vehicles in the city would need to obtain a $1,500 permit and pay a fee to operate. The proposed fee schedule encompasses a total of $40,000 to $80,000, depending on the number of scooters deployed in the area.

“No scooter operator will be given a permit to operate if it has an outstanding debt to the city,” said Tameka Jefferson, constituent services manager for the mayor’s office. “The city continues to consider the

Richmond City Council will have to approve scooter-sharing services like Bird and Lime — current proposals would require that companies have designated parking spaces for unattended vehicles. Photo by Elizabeth Humphreys placement or parking of any vehicles on the sidewalk to be in violation of city code.”

Dockless scooter companies would also have to provide designated areas for scooter pick-up and drop-off — a concept already employed by RVA Bike Share. This bike-share system has charging docks for its electric bikes and users will have to pay until the bike is properly replaced at a dock.

However, some students don’t like this concept due to its limitations.

“The reason why Birds are so nice is that you can drop them anywhere and not worry about it,” Talati said. “Limiting where you can park and pick them up would defeat the purpose of the convenience it’s trying to bring.”

Oklahoma State University recently notified bike sharing companies to remove scooters or face impoundment due to unsafe riding conditions and illegal parking. Other institutions, such as Arizona State University and Loyola Marymount University, have

also placed bans on the dockless scooters.

If Richmond removed Bird scooters, “it would make it harder for students to commute from place to place since the only other viable option is Uber or by bus,” Talati said.

Lime — another dockless electric bike and scooter company — is looking to launch scooters in Richmond as well. Lime spoke in favor of working with the proposed ordinance during the city council meeting.

“We are really committed to working alongside the city council and the mayor’s office, we would love the ability to provide some industry perspective on all of the issues,” said Maggie Gendron, director of strategic development for Lime. “We have a lot to offer in the conversation.”

Lime also expressed concerns regarding the limit on the number of scooters each company can have and that the proposed operating fees for Richmond are higher than other cities where the company is

present. Lime advocated for a dynamic cap system when determining the number of scooters allowed in the area. “[The system] provides flexibility for both the ridership to increase but also as demand increases, ridership can increase,” Gendron said. “Simultaneously, if demand decreases, the fleet will decrease as well.”

Although VCU student Nathan Nguyen has never tried out any of the Bird scooters, he said that an increase in popularity and competition between scooter brands would persuade him to take one out for a ride. Nguyen also expressed concern about the overcrowding of scooters.

“I don’t think I would want to walk on the sidewalk as much because it would be annoying with all the scooters,” Nguyen said.

The ultimate fate of Bird scooters will be discussed at the Nov. 13 city council meeting.

OMSA generates dialogue on implicit bias HANNAH EASON Contributing Writer Office of Multicultural Student Affairs diversity ambassadors facilitated a discussion on implicit bias during a “Diversity & Inclusion Dialogue on Tour” presentation Oct. 15 in Ackell Residence Center.

Ambassadors Caden Haney and Raven Witherspoon gave a presentation on the effect of implicit bias on everyday decision-making and the campus environment. Haney described bias as “prejudice — or favor — for or against one thing or a group compared to another, usually in a way considered to be unfair.”

“Let’s say you’re walking down the street and see a person of color walk by, and you clutch your purse a little tighter,” Haney said. “That would be considered an unconscious bias.”

In this scenario, bias refers to prejudice.

However, bias could also pertain to smaller things such as favorite sports teams or

food preferences. “[Bias] can be good — like telling you not to walk alone in a dark alley,” Witherspoon said.

The presentation included videos about the effects of biases on children. These included two studies — one originally conducted in the 1940s, and an updated version of the same study from 2010. These studies analyzed racial bias in subjects given dolls of different skin tones.

Fifty-seven percent of the youngest children chose the two darkest shades when asked to point to the “ugly” doll. Elementary school students were also asked to point toward the “good” doll or the “nice” doll — the majority pointed toward the lightest shade.

When the ambassadors opened discussion on the study’s findings, media, environment and school were all proposed as causes by the audience. Attendees shared personal experiences and opinions on the matter.

“You don’t think these things resonate with [children] as much as they do,” said Aaron Holmes, an Ackell resident assistant. “Your early childhood development is your first dose of how you’ll interact with people, so it’s really interesting.”

Biases were also shown in school discipline — with young boys being more likely to be suspended from school than young girls and black boys more likely to be suspended than any other group. Black children were also three times more likely to be expelled than other races. This statistic tied into a discussion about racial bias in incarceration rates, which showed similar trends.

The ambassadors suggested the critical consumption of news through fact-checking and unbiased sources can combat bias.

Using inclusive language and developing a good understanding of unconscious bias were also recommended.

Holmes explained that OMSA dialogues help him as an RA.

“When situations come up with residents, I can use these [presentations] to educate and inform people of things that they might not think is a problem,” Holmes said. “Being a black male, a lot of this information I unfortunately am already used to. But it’s never bad to relearn it, or hear it again, and make sure other people around you are receiving it the same way that you do.”

Witherspoon shared how she felt about the importance of having talks concerning implicit bias.

“I’ve always been really big in diversity and inclusion,” Witherspoon said. “It really isn’t supposed to be a lecture. It’s supposed to be a conversation. We want people to talk to us, but also talk to each other and generate a dialogue.”

For more information about future OMSA “D&I Dialogues,” visit omsa. vcu.edu.

6 The Commonwealth Times

Stat of the week

Junior middle blocker Jasmin Sneed earned her fourth Atlantic 10 honor for her performace against Fordham University and the University of Rhode Island.

Rams display new talent during Black and Gold Game guy on the team. If he doesn’t make the play, then he gets in the way to help his team.”

The game was a display of defense as the The second half was a complete turncrowd saw constant communication on the around for Vann. He scored all 16 of his court. Players were quick on their feet and points after the break - the highest total passed the ball effectively, but Men’s Bas- during the inner-team scrimmage. ketball head coach Mike Rhoades thought Gilmore struggled on the offensive end, the team could have played faster. only scoring four points in the first half “I thought it was a little sloppy early-on and none in the second. Santos-Silva and but we had some good defense,” Rhoades Simms scored four points each during the said. “We didn’t shoot the ball. We shot the second half. heck out of it two days ago at practice.”

“We have to play with an edge. We have Right before the second timeout of the to guard people,” Rhoades said. “I thought first half, Curry raced to the other side of we got each other shots. We are a better the court to dunk the ball, creating a lively interior defense as a team and that will help crowd and energetic black team. us a lot.”

“Nobody thought [Curry] was a good In the end, the black team came out vicplayer because nobody knew that much torious 36-34. Although the game did not about him,” Rhoades said. “He wasn’t count toward the season, it was recorded so ranked or any of that stuff. He is a com- players can look back at their performances petitive kid, he is athletic and he can cover and improve. ground. He is going to turn into a really “With great freedom comes great respongood defender.” sibility,” Rhoades said. “If we are going to The first half ended with Jenkins shoot- play fast and play with freedom, then we ing a 3-pointer, giving the gold team the need to have the responsibility to take care lead, 18-16. of the basketball team, make good shots Douglas gained all five of his points and then make sure [we’re] playing defense.” during the first half. Despite an underwhelming performance, Rhoades is confi- The Rams will hold their first exhibition game dent Douglas holds potential. against the University of Virginia’s College “He not only has grown as a player but at Wise Oct. 30 at the Siegel Center. Tip-off [has grown] physically,” Rhoades said. “He time is to be determined. knows how to play. He might be the best

Continued from front page

Senior guard Xavier Jackson (15) averaged 1.3 points per game last season.

Photo by Shayla Bailey

Four-star forward Vince Williams headlines freshman class ZACH JOACHIM Executive Editor

Good, I enjoy it every day. I like seeing them every day, and the passion is really good constantly.

Freshman forward Vince Williams said he lives for a rowdy home crowd. This affinity for a raucous environment helped draw the Toledo, Ohio native east to Broad Street, where he hopes to carry on VCU’s trademark tradition of depth and versatility on the wings.

A four-star, 6-foot-6-inch, 220-pound small forward, Williams averaged 15.8 points and 8.6 rebounds per game while dishing out 104 assists his senior year at St. John’s Jesuit High School. The CT sat down with Williams to gauge how he’s adjusting to his new home, teammates and coaching staff.

Why VCU? The coaching staff and teammates. On my official visit here, I felt like it was the place for me. They just brought me in and it’s a really close system.

[The University of] Richmond was also in your top six — are you excited to get accustomed to that rivalry?

Yes, for sure. It’s a big game, really just down the street. So it’s like back at home where rivalry games are really big.

What has the move from Ohio to Richmond been like for you?

I’m not homesick, so that’s good. (laughs)

What do you think of the practice facility?

I like it, just being able to go to the gym anytime you want to. I’ve really never had that before, the ability to work on your game anytime.

Do you feel the special energy around basketball, since we’re a big school that doesn’t have a football team?

Yes, for sure. I like it here, I like that [energy]. It’s like back in high school.

Freshman wing Vince Williams was ranked 41 in the 2018 class for small forwards.

Photo by Shayla Bailey Really, the big thing is probably the weather, game? Coach Ed Heintschel of St. John’s it’s a lot warmer down here and I like that. Jesuit High School said your passing The things around, restaurants, people — ability really allows you to make your it’s a very different culture and I like it. teammates better. Is that something you focus on?

Depth and versatility on the wings have always been a staple at VCU, are you Yes. I’m really not a shoot-first kinda guy. excited to carry on that tradition?

I just go with the flow, let my teammates do their thing and just wait my turn. You’re Yes, for sure. I feel like I’m already learn- always gonna have opportunities to score, so ing from the older guys right now. They I’ll just attack and then pass it to them. I bereally give me good advice, and that will lieve in my teammates to knock down shots. transfer to the court.

How do you feel like you’re fitting in with What are the biggest strengths of your this group of guys?

What does RamNation need to know about you?

I’m gonna come in and do what I do best, help the team, have a way better season and go to the NCAA Tournament.

You’re getting along with coach [Mike] Rhoades and the coaching staff well?

When I first met him, it’s been the same energy now that I’m actually here. So I really like him.

What motivates Vince Williams?

Rowdy crowds, for sure. Home court advantage. The intensity of the game. Just the team going out and giving their all.

Wed. October 24, 2018 7

Illustration by Ashlyn Rudolph

Alie-Cox making name for himself in NFL

SAM HOOPER Contributing Writer VCU has a special bond with a certain NFL player who’s a member of the Indianapolis Colts active roster. The 267-pound, 6-foot-6 tight end from Middleburg, Virginia is no other than the beloved Mo AlieCox, the former frontcourt general for VCU Men’s Basketball.

Alie-Cox wears No. 81 for the Colts and has been active for two games so far this season. His first career game was in week four — a 37-34 loss to the division rival Houston Texans. During the game, he logged his first career NFL catch, a single completion from quarterback Andrew Luck for 17 yards.

Alie-Cox was then inactive for week five, but came back for a week-six showdown in New York against the Jets. The Colts ended up losing the game 42-34, but Alie-Cox logged another catch from Luck — this time for 34 yards. As of publication, AlieCox has two receptions for 51 yards, an average of 25.5 yards per catch, in two games this season.

The last time Alie-Cox played football was his freshman year of high school, so it was no surprise he was not selected in the 2017 NFL Draft. On April 21, 2017, Alie-Cox signed as an undrafted free agent with the Indianapolis Colts. In August of the same year, he suffered a lower leg injury and was placed on injured reserve. He was

tember, he was waived by the Colts and signed to the practice squad the next day. On Sept. 28, Alie-Cox was promoted to the active roster and made his NFL debut Sept. 30 against the Texans.

On Oct. 3, Alie-Cox was waived again and signed back to the Colts’ practice squad. He was then promoted back to the active roster on Oct. 12 and played in his second NFL game against the Jets Oct. 14.

Alie-Cox has not always played tight end — let alone football. After playing high school basketball at Middleburg Academy, Alie-Cox came to VCU in 2013 to play for the Rams. During his freshman year, Alie-Cox tallied 117 points, 126 rebounds, 11 assists, 11 steals and 48 blocks. He also shot .596 from the line, making 34 out of 57 free throws.

During Alie-Cox’s final season at VCU, he set personal records for steals and blocks with 29 and 71. Alie-Cox also scored 333 points, grabbed 147 rebounds, and dished out 36 assists. later released with an injury settlement and Alie-Cox played a total of 3,332 minutes resigned to the Colts practice squad Oct. 7. for the Rams, starting 103 of a possible 142 At the beginning of 2018, Alie-Cox signed games. His final stat-line for his VCU caa future contract with the Colts. reer is a total of 1,092 points, 663 rebounds, 112 assists, 88 steals and 255 blocks. AlieCox also shot 100 percent from beyond the RAM STAT arc, coming off a single attempt during his freshman season, when he made his first — Alie-Cox has three and last — 3-pointer at VCU. Alie-Cox’s NFL ride does not seem to receptions for 58 yards, be slowing down anytime soon. To the conan average of 19.3 trary, RamNation has reason to hope Mo yards per catch, in three is on his way to making a name for himself as a redzone option for Andrew Luck and games this season. the Colts.

Alie-Cox’s up-and-down NFL career didn’t stop there. At the beginning of Sep-

Reunited: Brunt joins Rhoades’ staff as assistant NOAH FLEISCHMAN Contributing Writer Fifteen-year coaching veteran Jamal Brunt joined the Men’s Basketball coaching staff in the offseason after three seasons at the University of Miami. This season will be Brunt’s second coaching under Mike Rhoades — the first since Rhoades’ days at Randolph-Macon College.

The Randolph-Macon graduate played for Rhoades and the Yellow Jackets from 1999-2003 and was part of two NCAA Division III Sweet 16 appearances in 2002 and 2003. He served as a captain of the 2002-03 team that went 28-2 and reached the Sweet 16 for the second year in a row.

“I’ve known [Rhoades] for a majority of my adult life,” Brunt said. “He recruited me to Randolph-Macon in my senior year of high school. He went from recruiting me to being my head coach for four years and then working with him for two years [as a graduate assistant].”

After graduating, Brunt served under Rhoades for two years at Randolph-Macon as an assistant coach. During his two years on the Yellow Jackets’ coaching staff, Brunt was part of all aspects of coaching, from player development and recruiting to watching game film.

Brunt came to Richmond in 2005 to coach for the University of Richmond as the director of operations. He served in that

role until being promoted to assisIn the past, Brunt has helped detant coach in 2007 and associate head velop some of the nation’s top college coach in 2013. basketball players including the HurriTwo years later, the Baltimore nacane’s 1,000-point scorer Davon Reed tive left central Virginia and took his and the Spiders’ Justin Harper, who talents to South Beach, Florida to bewas drafted 32nd overall by the Clevecome an assistant coach at the Univerland Cavaliers in 2011. sity of Miami. In his three seasons with Brunt returns to Richmond this the Hurricanes, Brunt reached the season, replacing associate head NCAA Tournament three times and coach Jeremy Ballard, who was hired made a trip to the Sweet 16 in 2016. at Florida International University “I would say that the things I can in the spring. When Brunt saw the bring with me from working with opening at VCU, he thought he would [ Jim] Larrañaga [at Miami] was just be a match for the job. the amount of time that you need to “I look at [Rhoades] more as family spend with the players,” Brunt said. than my coach. He’s seen me grow as “Really working with players with not a person and my family grow,” Brunt only the physical aspect of the game, said. “I’ve been a part of his family but the mental aspect of the game.” since the time I played for him. It Brunt also helped the Hurricanes was a very easy decision [to come to] recruit one of the top classes in the a place like VCU with tremendous country for the 2017-18 season by basketball success and tradition, it resigning three ESPN Top-100 playally matched.” ers. In addition to recruiting, Brunt When Brunt steps on the court at served as the head of Miami’s offenthe Siegel Center for the home opensive scheme. He led the Hurricanes er against Gardner-Webb Universito a nationally-ranked, top-15 offense ty, he looks forward to being on the during the 2015-16 season. That team Assistant coach Jamal Brunt. Photo by Shayla Bailey. home side. averaged 75.2 points a game and shot “Having the opportunity to have a .749 from the free throw line. team] to achieve success,” Brunt said. “I great fan base like VCU cheering for you “I think the level of intensity that goes think that experience and being able to and help push your guys forward,” Brunt said. in to have success in the [Atlantic Coast coach and compete at the highest level, you “Playing in a great place like the Siegel Center Conference], you understand and figure learn a lot of little things that you can apply night-in and night-out, that will be fun.” out ways to pull the best out daily for [the to help [the players] grow and develop.”

8 The Commonwealth Times

Meet the players: 2018 season brings fresh talent to Men’s Basketball ADAM CHEEK Staff Writer

ANDY RIDDLER Contributing Writer

Illustrations by Steck Von, Summer McClure and Sammy Newman

KESHAWN CURRY - 11 FRESHMAN G

DYLAN SHEEHY-GUISEPPE - 12 SOPHOMORE G

The Jacksonville product blends in well with the Rams’ fast-paced play. Curry and Douglas both come from Fork Union Military Academy. Curry helped the Blue Devils to a 19-10 record last season. Averaging 19.5 points and 6.2 rebounds in high school, the new addition was selected AllFirst Coast Second Team and All-Gateway Conference, and racked up 48 points in a single high school contest.

Sheehy-Guiseppi is a sophomore walkon from Lake Havasu City, Arizona. He appeared in four games as a freshman, playing a total of six minutes. He brings depth and versatility to the guard position, and he is an athletic scorer and rebounder for the Rams.

“Dylan has been a great contributor to our program; he plays with great energy every day, brings toughness and tenacity that we need in this program,” head coach Mike Rhoades said in a VCU Athletics video.

VCU Hall of Fame inductee dies of cancer JESSICA WETZLER Sports Editor VCU Athletics announced Oct. 15 that VCU Hall of Fame inductee Charles “Jabo” Wilkins died at age 70 due to complications from brain cancer.

Wilkins was a Richmond native, graduating from Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School and transferring to VCU in 1968 after attending Fayetteville State University. He played for the Rams for three seasons as a guard/forward and averaged 23.8 points — which remains a VCU record.

To this day, Wilkins is the only player in the program’s history to average more than 20 points in three consecutive seasons.

He also holds a record in rebounding, recording 16.6 boards per game in 1969-70.

He still holds a VCU game record for scoring 45 points in a 106-100 overtime win over West Liberty University in December 1968.

Wilkins averaged 27.5 points and 16.6 rebounds in 1969-70, both program records. In 72 career games, the versatile wing scored 1,716 points, good for fourth

DE’RIANTE JENKINS - 0 - JUNIOR G

MIKE’L SIMMS - 1 - JUNIOR F/G

Jenkins is one of nine returning roster members, having played the last two seasons for the Rams. The two-year veteran shot an even 75 percent from the free-throw line in 2017-18, scoring 425 points over the course of the season — bested only by the now-departed Justin Tillman. Jenkins averaged 12.9 points last season and put up double-digit points 23 times over the course of the season. He will likely garner a starting gig at small forward for the Black and Gold.

Highland Springs’ Simms came off the bench for all 33 games in the 2017-18 season, establishing a reputation in his first season as a versatile asset. Simms shot more than 40 percent from the field and knocked down 34 3-pointers. The Richmond native racked up 20 points — fueled by six 3-pointers — against George Mason University last season and will look to get more playing time as the upcoming season unfolds.

MALIK CROWFIELD - 13 - JUNIOR G

MARCUS SANTOS-SILVA - 14 SOPHOMORE F

Crowfield is from LaPlace, Louisiana.

Last year, he appeared in 29 games — making 13 starts — where he averaged 5.8 points and 1.3 rebounds. He shot 35.9 percent (46128) from 3-point range last season. His 46 3-pointers ranked second on the team. He is a gifted shooter and has shown the ability to play either guard spot. Crowfield projects as the Rams’ starting 2-guard.

“He is a guy who can shoot, dribble and pass. Very good defensive player, really picks things up easily. We’re going to need him to really step up,” Rhoades said in a VCU Athletics video.

Three ways for students to enter basketball games DANIEL PURYEAR Contributing Writer ROWDY RAMS

all-time.

Wilkins helped lead VCU to a landmark victory over the University of Minnesota in 1970 and scored 40 points over Virginia Union University in 1971.

In 1996, Wilkins was inducted to the VCU Athletics Hall of Fame and selected to be a member of VCU’s all-time team as part of the 50th anniversary celebration.

“At this time, there are no plans in place to retire Charles Wilkins’ jersey,” said Chris Kowalczyk, assistant athletic director for athletics communications.

Last year, the Massachusetts native appeared in 33 games, averaging 3.1 points and three rebounds per game. His 17 blocked shots ranked second on the team last year. While he finished sixth in total rebounds last year, he averaged 12.4 rebounds per 40 minutes, good for second-best on the team. The left-hander is a tenacious rebounder and skilled passer — he will be a key piece for VCU this season on both ends of the floor. Santos-Silva is projected to start down low for the Black and Gold.

The VCU Athletics Student Section offers a ticket package for students and avid fans. For $35, students can get access to every home basketball game when they claim their ticket along with a T-shirt, discounts around campus and the potential of attending away games and the Atlantic 10 Men’s Basketball Tournament.

Two important points to remember: you must claim your ticket about a week before the intended game and you must use that ticket in order to keep getting tickets. After two instances of not using your claimed tickets, you will no longer be able to claim them. Lastly, the A-10 Tournament is not free but everything is set up for you — including transportation and lodging — and it is a decent price. Overall, Rowdy Rams is the most reliable and guaranteed way to see every basketball game at the Siegel Center.

STAND-BY If you happen to find yourself with nothing to do and VCU is hosting an exhibition game or a lesser-known opponent, you might be able to snag yourself a standby ticket. Simply line up beside the Siegel Center long before the game starts — or about two hours for big games — with your student ID and you have a chance of getting a ticket. Obviously, this option does not guarantee entry.

ONLINE TICKETS Student or not, there is always the option of heading to VCU Athletics and buying a single game ticket or heading to StubHub, Ticketmaster or Craigslist to find tickets being sold. It will most likely not be the most wallet-friendly option, but if you really want a ticket — or to sit outside of general admission — this is your chance.

Wed. October 24, 2018 9

MARCUS EVANS - 2 - JUNIOR G Evans did not play in the Black and Gold Game due to injury, having damaged his Achilles for the second time in two years. Evans was a member of VCU head coach Mike Rhoades’ team at Rice University, scoring 1,350 points — an average of 20.1 per game — for the Owls. The crafty point guard will look to return healthy as ever and do some damage for the Rams when he hits the court again. When healthy, Evans should immediately slide into the starting point guard position and serve as the Rams’ leading scorer.

XAVIER JACKSON - 15 - SENIOR G Jackson is from Hinesville, Georgia. He transferred to VCU prior to last season from Sheridan Community College. Jackson appeared in 20 games last season, making seven starts. He averaged 1.3 points and 0.9 rebounds. He adds depth to the guard position for VCU, and his athleticism allows him to be a very good rebounder despite only being listed at 6-feet-3-inches. He is another 3-point threat for VCU this season and will be a key player off the bench for Rhoades.

COREY DOUGLAS - 4 SOPHOMORE F

SEAN MOBLEY - 5 - SOPHOMORE F

Douglas also played with Rhoades at Rice University, where he started his career.

The Louisville, Kentucky native transferred from Tallahassee Community College to VCU. He averaged 13.3 points per game for the TCC Eagles.

Having donned black and gold last season as a freshman, the Florida native started 13 of his last 14 games and appeared in all 33 during the 2017-18 campaign. Mobley proved to be the Rams’ second-most-accurate player from behind the 3-point line, eventually knocking down 30 throughout the season for a .380 percentage. The fourstar ESPN recruit racked up eight assists in his first start against George Washington University. Mobley is a projected starter in the Rams’ frontcourt this year.

MICHAEL GILMORE - 22 REDSHIRT-SENIOR F

ISSAC VANN - 23 - REDSHIRTJUNIOR F

Gilmore transferred to VCU after spending two years at FGCU. Gilmore previously played for VCU from 2014-2016, appearing in 56 games for the Rams. In 24 appearances for FGCU last season, he averaged 6.6 points, 5.6 rebounds and 0.9 blocks. His length and ability to run the floor make him a great fit in Rhoades’ pressing attack. He is a 3-point threat and could be a major key to VCU’s success this year — if he realizes his potential, the stretch-4 could garner major minutes and even push for a starting job as VCU’s predominant rim protector.

Vann appeared in 25 games last year, averaging 9.8 points and 3.8 rebounds. The Connecticut native underwent offseason surgery after suffering a high ankle sprain last year that forced him to miss eight games early-on. Vann is a physical slasher, able to connect from the 3-point line and a great defender who can use his long, athletic frame to fill passing lanes to force steals. Vann could push for a starting job this year and should be a key contributor for the Rams.

VINCE WILLIAMS - 10 FRESHMAN F/G The Toledo, Ohio native is one of five new faces on the Rams’ roster. As a recruit, he was ranked in the country’s top-50 small forwards. The All-Ohio First Team selection and three-time All-Northwest District player hopes to make a big splash in his first season on Broad Street. He averaged 19.6 points and 8.2 rebounds at St. John’s Jesuit High School while shooting 62 percent from the field and 75 percent from the line.

P.J. BYRD - 24 - FRESHMAN G Byrd is a true VCU freshman who played basketball at George Bush High School in Richmond, Texas. He was selected for All-State his senior year and was named the District 20-6A Most Valuable Player as a junior and senior. He led Bush to four consecutive district championships. As a point guard, Byrd should thrive in Rhoades’ up-tempo system this season.

Ram in Action: Tera Reed JARON NUTTER Contributing Writer

Listen to every VCU Men’s Basketball home game live on WVCW Radio Richmond at WVCW.org or on the WVCW Radio app.

Sophomore guard Tera Reed began her collegiate career at VCU by earning a selection to the 2018 Atlantic 10 All-Rookie Team in February. This season, she looks to build off the honor and continue her athletic success.

Reed started all but two games last season and led the team in scoring. Averaging 13.9 points per game, she was the first freshman to lead the team in scoring since 2005. Reed was only the seventh freshman to accomplish that in the university’s history — the sophomore is on track to leave quite a legacy at VCU. “I moved to California when I was 14 and attended school there for a year,” Reed said. “In 2016, I left and came back to the United States to attend high school in New Jersey.”

Born in New Zealand, Reed played for her country’s National Age Group teams where in 2012 she was a member of the U16 team at the Australian State Championships. Reed later played at the FIBA U17 Oceania World Qualifiers and in 2016 was co-captain of the U18 team

Sophomore guard Tera Reed. Photo courtesy of VCU Athletics. that competed in the FIBA Oceania U18 Qualifiers in Fiji.

“The transition from New Zealand to the United States wasn’t too difficult, but the biggest change for me was just the amount of diversity,” Reed said. “I miss the beaches and nature back home, but I enjoy all of the different types of food and

cultures here.”

Although the sophomore doesn’t have a favorite WNBA team, she does have a favorite player — Candace Parker, power forward for the Los Angeles Sparks.

“I model my game after Candace Parker,” Reed said. “She is a very tall, athletic player who also has really good guard skills and abilities.”

Like Parker, Reed plans on going pro after college.

“I would like to play in Europe as that is one place that I have not been to yet,” Reed said. “I think it would be a great experience.”

Even though she was surprised to be named to the A-10 All-Rookie Team last season, Reed has her eyes set on bigger aspirations.

“My goal is for our team to win the A-10 Conference Championship,” Reed said. “I want our team to be remembered as a team that was very successful and made school history.”

Reed and the women’s basketball team will begin the season Nov. 6, as they travel to Williamsburg to face the College of William & Mary.

10 The Commonwealth Times

Former Rams in the pros DANIEL PURYEAR Contributing Writer

KHRIS LANE The 6-foot-7-inch forward and Longwood transfer began his pro-career in Germany at SSV Lok Bernau this fall. In his limited time at VCU, Lane left his mark with an average of 6.9 points and 3.8 rebounds per game and was not afraid to launch from beyond the arc. One of his most iconic performances in Richmond was against Texas when he landed four 3-pointers in the second half. Any VCU fan would remember the noise — and possibly the most exciting atmosphere the Siegel Center has had in years — when Lane sunk his last 3-pointer, capping off a VCU rally back from an 18-point deficit. SSV Lok Bernau and Lane parted ways and dissolved his contract last week. The team announced the news Oct. 19. Coach René Schilling stated, “There have been several factors of dissatisfaction, both from us and [Lane].”

Lane averaged 12 points and five rebounds per game in Germany.

JONATHAN WILLIAMS A leader in the 2017-18 season, Williams has taken his talents to the Netherlands as a player for Aris Leeuwarden.

Williams — known for his passing ability — led the Atlantic 10 in assists during his final season with a 5.7 average. With 9.8 points per game in his college career, he has continued to impress with an 8-point average as well as scoring 15 in one of his most recent games against ETB Wohnbau Baskets in Essen, Germany. Williams follows in the footsteps of fellow former Rams Brandon Rozzell and Darius Theus who had their own stints at Aris Leeuwarden. The club finished 10-22 in the 2017-18 season and is currently 3-4.

JUSTIN TILLMAN The co-star of the 2017-18 season, Tillman has recently signed to Wonju DB Promy of the Korean Basketball League. Tillman began his pro career playing for the Miami Heat in the NBA Summer League where, in two games, he averaged 6.5 points and 5 rebounds. The youngest player on the South Korean team, Tillman has already made a name for himself by leading in rebounds at 11 per game, compared to his 9.9 average in his senior college season.

The 6-foot-8-inch forward is second on the team for points at 23.3, right behind the Creighton University and Big East Conference standout Marcus Foster. Tillman is sure to be a star in South Korea — he had 24 points and 13 rebounds in 27 minutes in his most recent game against Anyang KGC 24.

JEQUAN LEWIS Colleagues with Tillman from 2014-16, Lewis joined him in the Korean Basketball League, signing to the Goyang Orions. The Tennessee native has moved to South Korea from the NBA G League and the Wisconsin Herd. In 13 starts at Wisconsin, Lewis managed 9.2 points per game, a long way from 15 at VCU. Lewis leads the Goyang Orions with 20.7 points and 6 assists per game. The Orions are third in the KBL at 2-1 but the two VCU players have not yet had a chance to face each other.

TROY DANIELS Daniels — a 2013 VCU graduate — remains on the Phoenix Suns roster. The guard is in his sixth year of NBA play and is putting up some of his best numbers yet.

Last season on the Suns, Daniels averaged 8.9 points and shot 87.5 percent from the charity stripe in 13 starts. Daniels seems to be striving to increase his performance with 11 points in the last preseason game against the Portland Trail Blazers.

TREVEON GRAHAM Graham, alongside Daniels, is helping keep VCU on the map in the eyes of the NBA. Graham signed to the Brooklyn Nets Former VCU forward Justin Tillman made the Atlantic 10 all-conference first team during after two years with the Charlotte Hornets. his senior year. Photo by Erin Edgerton The former Ram tallied an average of 15.1 has been doing all he can to become a name points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.6 assists per in the NBA. Last week, the Miami Heat game in his last year at VCU. His time with BRIANTE WEBER waived Weber to seal-up its 15-man roster the Hornets proved productive — after 92 One of the cornerstone members of the prior to the regular season. This is nothing games, Graham came out with a 43 percent “Havoc” era, Weber is still making a name new to the 6-foot-2-inch guard, who was 3-point shooting percentage and 3.6 points for himself as a defensive powerhouse. waived three times in the last four years by per game. But after signing with the BrookWith 39 career steals and counting in the the Heat prior to the regular season. Weber lyn Nets earlier this year, Graham suffered NBA, Weber is the same player who helped averaged 1.6 steals, 4.8 points and 3.4 re- a hamstring injury and is out as of Oct. 20.

VCU get to the historic Final Four — ac- bounds in his last season with the Memphis He is on day-to-day watch to see when he cumulating 374 career steals and ranking Grizzlies. Weber was since signed to the will return. third in steals in NCAA Division I history. Sioux Falls Skyforce — the Miami Heat’s From the Miami Heat to the Golden State G-League team — which he’s is very familWarriors to the Charlotte Hornets, Weber iar with. The season will begin Nov. 2.

International MVP Kseniya Malashka joins the Black and Gold NOAH FLEISCHMAN Staff Writer Women’s Basketball welcomed three new players to this season’s roster, but one of the additions brings international experience to Richmond from her home country of Belarus.

“I’m looking forward to trying to win as many games as we can and continue to improve as a basketball player,” said freshman forward Kseniya Malashka.

Malashka brings an extensive background from Belarus as she competed in the FIBA U18 European Championships and U16 Women’s European Championship, Division A. Malashka, who has played basketball her entire life, said she started playing on the international level early-on. “We always played some tournaments against different European countries,” Malashka said. “But

my first major tournament for Belarus was the European championship in 2015. I was named MVP of the tournament.”

In the 2015 tournament, Malashka averaged 14.5 points per game with 11.9 rebounds, earning MVP honors. She also distributed the ball to her teammates as she averaged 4.5 assists per game.

Malashka was also named MVP of the 2018 U18 Division B tournament as she led her team to the championship game averaging 20.5 points, 14.1 rebounds and 3.4 assists. Belarus went home with a silver medal in the tournament this past summer as the team fell to Lithuania 86-71. Malashka logged 17 points, 15 rebounds and three assists in the loss. “[Malashka] is a very talented player who has a multi-faceted skill set,” Women’s Basketball head coach Beth O’Boyle told VCU Athletics. “She can score off the Freshman forward Kseniya Malashka. bounce, from deep behind the arc and with Photo courtesy of VCU Athletics

her back to the basket. I’m looking forward to [Malashka] bringing her high-level international playing experience and her great passion for the game to our program.”

Malashka also competed in gymnastics and swimming as a child in Belarus.

Freshman forward Lauryn Thompson joins Malashka as the only other freshman on the roster this season. The Texas native averaged 10 points and six rebounds her junior year at Timberview High School. She was also named to the First Team 14-5A All-District twice in her high school career.

The last addition to the women’s team, junior guard Te’Kayla Tassin, transferred to VCU from Jones County Junior College in Mississippi this season. Tassin played all 32 games last season at the junior college level.

She averaged 10.3 points and 2.6 assists for the Bobcats.

Wed. October 24, 2018 11

On this day

Known as “Black Thursday,” the Dow Jones fell 12.8 percent, signaling the start of the stock market crash on Oct. 24, 1929.

The elements within Rashid Johnson’s “Monument,” a structure filled with books and other artifacts, aims to make visitors think about belonging.

Photo by Andrew Ringle

“Hedges, Edges, Dirt” is a collaboration between Abbas Akhavan, Jonathas de Andrade, David Hartt, Julianne Swartz and Pascale Marthine Tayou.

Photos by Erin Edgerton

New ICA exhibits capture essence of fall, engage art lovers ANDREW RINGLE Contributing Writer Under the high ceilings of the Markel Center, a towering steel structure climbs toward the sky. Long-leafed plants flow throughout its frame and shea butter sculptures pepper the corners and edges of the pyramidal shape. On the floors below, eerie tones float from glass bodies, occasionally creating a random sense of harmony, which persists across the various mediums used by a group of international artists.

The Institute for Contemporary Art at VCU simultaneously opened “Hedges, Edges, Dirt” and the first installment of its “Provocations” series, “Monument” Oct. 17. The exhibitions explore cultural history and modern issues, including immigration and urbanization.

“Hedges, Edges, Dirt” is a collaborative exhibit, presenting work from Abbas Akhavan, Jonathas de Andrade, David Hartt, Julianne Swartz and Pascale Marthine Tayou. The exhibit is located on the first and second floors of the ICA’s Markel Center.

On the first floor, a line of trimmed emerald green cedar trees welcomes visitors to the well-lit entryway of the expansive new exhibit. In the back room, tropical plants are overlaid in a rectangular shape centered

on the concrete floor. The horticultural displays, “Untitled Garden” and “Study for a Curtain,” come from Akhavan, an Iranian artist based in Toronto.

Richmond’s Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden provided Akhavan with many of the plants used in “Study for a Curtain.”

Although none of the plants are native to Richmond, their roots in the city represent themes of global immigration and colonization.

“I really enjoyed being a part of this,” said Ryan Olsen, conservatory horticulturist at Lewis Ginter. “It was great watching it come to fruition and the artist is very happy with the outcome. The palms and various other plants from around the world provide many different colors and textures, which will last a long time here.”

Photographs and stills from de Andrade — a Brazilian artist who captured the life of fishermen living on the São Francisco River — hang on the walls of the first floor.

The 38-minute film titled “O Peixe” (The Fish) is accompanied by a series of seven photographs titled “O espirito das águas” (The Water Spirits 1-7).

Between Akhavan’s greenery and de Andrade’s frames, branches decorated with colorful plastic bags sprout from the wall over a stacked arrangement of painted stones resting in the open space. These

projects from Tayou present a comparison between the styles of Western society and the colorful markets of Africa, along with an observation on the ways global waste affects the world.

On the second floor are the images and objects comprising Hartt’s series, “Negative Space.” It focuses on “The Last Poet,” a film made by Hartt featuring drone footage from cities along the East Coast, including a stop in Richmond. The series explores the appearances of modern urban spaces along with the decay of industrial society. This selection from “Hedges, Edges, Dirt” can best be represented by “Negative Space,” a large woven tapestry which displays an image of a modern, industrialized community through an otherwise antique medium.

In the neighboring room, “Hedges, Edges, Dirt” continues with Swartz’s “Sine Body,” a gallery of glass and ceramic objects resting atop low platforms and high shelves. The art emits a unique acoustic sound, exploring the contrast between tangible and intangible materials in sculpture.

“I draw tones from these objects using a microphone which reads the air mass inside each one,” Swartz said. “After I call out the tones from each vessel, they are played intermittently and randomly by electronic speakers hidden inside the bodies. That’s what you can hear, and some-

times feel, while standing in this room.”

In the third-floor exhibition space, the first installment of “Provocations” is on display with Rashid Johnson’s “Monument.”

The structure is filled with plants, books and other artifacts — its metal arms are highlighted by white glow lights.

“This structure is very much about place,” Johnson said. “It forces us to think about where it lives and how it relates to that space.

In a sense, the shea butter, plants and books inside the structure give it a potential to not only live here, but also in your own home.”

Every Friday and Saturday, a live performance will be presented alongside the structure to embody the sense of engagement conceived by Johnson with “Monument.”

“It’s exciting to be able to bring place to life,” Johnson said. “You’ll be able to see dance in this space, along with live music and even yoga. A work like this gives you an opportunity for the long look at how art works together, not only by seeing it from different angles over time but also by witnessing it in the company of other performers.”

“Hedges, Edges, Dirt” will be on display until Jan. 6 and “Monument” will remain at the ICA until July 7. Membership and general admission at the ICA is free. More information can be found at icavcu.org.

12 The Commonwealth Times

UPCOMING EVENTS See something

SUN. 10/28 Monster Sunday at The Byrd

The Byrd will show four classic monster movies in a row with short breaks in-between. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online or at the door.

“The Mummy” (1932) 4:30 p.m.

“Revenge of the Creature” (1955) 6:15 p.m.

“Bride of Frankenstein” (1935) 7:45 p.m.

“The Invisible Man” (1933) 9 p.m.

4:30-11 p.m.

Do something

SAT. 10/27 14th annual Richmond Zombie Walk

Ron Johnson started the class in an effort to show athletes the benefits of creativity. Photo by Michel Maulding.

The art of de-stressing: VCU class gives student athletes a creative outlet KATIE BASHISTA Spectrum Editor Some student athletes at VCU are briefly trading in their basketballs, soccer balls and tennis shoes for paint brushes.

VCUarts assistant professor Ron Johnson created and currently teaches a course called Arts and Athletics. The class encourages athletes to take time out of their day to do something creative and shows art students the benefits of having daily rituals.

Johnson has been teaching for 15 years and said one of the reasons he started this class was because he knew the kind of pressure experienced by student athletes.

“I was an athlete growing up,” he said. “I could have been drafted to play baseball for the [Cleveland] Indians, but I played at Ohio State for a year.”

Aside from architecture courses, Johnson did not take any art classes in college — but he wishes he did.

“I just didn’t know [about the benefits],” he said. “I think that’s part of what’s interesting. I’m able to do this now with, kind of, that history that I have.”

Johnson said he does not only have athletes in the class. He also has students from the art school and other majors, such as

business and various medical fields. “[The class] is really just supposed to be an incubator for creativity,” he said.

Johnson said his perfect scenario would be to have an even number of students from different fields of study in the class at once.

“If I had 15 students in a class,” he said, “five would be athletes, five would be artists and five would be medical or business or whatever.”

The class has been available for four semesters, and a second section of the class was added recently. The two sections are structured differently, but have the same underlying goal, and the content design has the same motive.

The original class aims to get people creating and having a dialogue around the benefits of creativity.

“It’s kind of like a ‘society breaking down the walls’ in some cases,” Johnson said. “So-called ‘stupid jocks,’ which I’ve heard my whole life, are put with the ‘nerdy art students’ in a room and we just really see what happens.”

The second class has a stronger focus on mental health. While creating art is still a primary part of the class, Johnson hands out articles and the class has discussions about mental health.

“The second class has more of a structure,” he said. “One week we’ll deal with visualization, one week we’ll deal with mental health and one week we’ll deal with the idea of ritual or practice.”

Johnson has received positive feedback from both the arts and athletics departments, as well as the students themselves.

Some athletes have even told him they switched their majors to something more in the creative realm after taking his class.

“One of the biggest compliments I’ve gotten was actually from an artist,” he said.

“She told me after class that ‘this is what art schools should be like.’”

Lecture classes in college often consist of hundreds of students and create an impersonal experience with professors. Johnson said the personal nature of his class appeals to student athletes specifically because they primarily enroll in classes with that structure.

“I think they know that I try to deal with them as individuals,” Johnson said. “I’m trying to have conversations with them and find out what they’re interested in creatively.”

Both sections of the class are available every semester, and Johnson is in the process of creating a minor under the realm of creative practice.

Walk the streets of Carytown in your best zombie attire and participate in costume contests. There will be an award for most disgusting, best couple/group theme, best pop culture theme, best zombie kid and 2018 zombie of the year (best overall). This event, to benefit the American Cancer Society, is free but donations are encouraged. The event starts at 1 p.m. with a pre-walk meetup at Boat Lake at Byrd Park. At 2:30 p.m., the walk will begin across the street from The Byrd.

(2908 W. Cary St.) 1-4 p.m., Carytown

SAT. 10/27 Richmond’s Eerie Canal Boat Tours Travel down the Kanawha Canal and see Richmond’s spookiest locations while listening to haunting stories about the city’s past. The boats leave every hour and each ride is 30 minutes. Kids ages 4 and under are free, adults $3. Tickets are purchased on-site only. For more information visit venturerichmond.com.

5-9 p.m., Canal Turning Basin — 14th and Dock streets

SAT. 10/27 - SUN. 10/28 Richmond Comic-Con

Virginia’s comic-con convention includes costume contests, workshops, trivia, entertainment, meet-and-greets and more.

Ticket prices vary. For more information visit vacomicon.com.

Saturday, Oct. 27, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 28, 10a.m.-4p.m.

Richmond Raceway Complex, Old Dominion Building (600 E. Laburnum Ave.)

Learn something

WED. 10/24 Wednesdays in the Workshop: DIY Pop-up Books

As part of VCU Libraries’ Innovative Media department’s Wednesdays in The Workshop series, learn how to use proper paper engineering techniques to make cut-outs move in a pop-up book.

3-4 p.m., The Workshop in the Cabell Library basement

WED. 10/24 How-To Halloween Makeup Workshop

Not all the students are athletes. Art students, medical students and those from other majors can also take the class.

Photo by Michel Maulding.

Learn makeup secrets, tips and tricks from professionals from Aisthesis Productions to achieve perfect Halloween makeup. There will also be music from DJ Bummer’s Eve and silent screenings of classic Halloween films like “The Exorcist” and “Evil Dead.” All ages are welcome with adult supervision for minors.

Purchase tickets online; limited tickets available at the door. Tickets are $30 for the workshop, materials, one drink ticket and take-home instructional handouts. $40 tickets include everything in the previous ticket, plus a to-go makeup kit.

Visit hardywood.com/location/richmond/ for more information.

4-9 p.m., Hardywood Park Craft Brewery (2408-2410 Ownby Ln.)

Wed. October 24, 2018 13

Old and new horrors mix in Halloween (2018) SAMUEL GOODRICH Staff Writer When John Carpenter produced “Halloween” in 1978, he made a horror film that defined a new genre of slasher flicks. A low-budget, nasty, punkish film, it quickly became a smash hit that spawned a franchise and iconic killer Michael Myers.

Forty years later, no other “Halloween” has managed to live up to the original because the subsequent films were increasingly ridiculous and lazy. Now, director David Gordon Green is trying his hand at the series with a perfect storm of events. Jamie Lee Curtis is back, Carpenter returns as producer and composer, and the film itself is a direct sequel to the 1978 original.

While not as dread-inducing as the original, “Halloween” (2018) is a highly entertaining movie that manages to provide modern horror thrills and expand on the themes and ideas set forth by the classic.

Since the events of Oct. 31, 1978, Laurie Strode has been preparing for the return of Michael Myers. Becoming a reclusive doomsday prepper of sorts, Strode has a strained relationship with her daughter and granddaughter, who believe her fears to be overactive and unhealthy.

Strode is proven right on Halloween night when Myers escapes captivity, reigning terror over Haddonfield once more.

Immediate praise must be given to Green and his crew for their dedication and clear reverence for the original film and its depiction of Myers. Myers was the embodiment of pure evil, literally referred to as “The Shape” in the ending credits of the first film. In this sequel, we rarely get a good look at Myer’s face before he puts on the mask — even then, he’s always hiding in the shadows or lingering out of focus.

This isn’t to say that Myer’s kills are never shown. There are plenty of nasty, gory scenes for those craving blood in their horror. Green

Illustration by Karly Andersen

and his production company balance these shocking moments with off-screen kills or nail-biting suspense that let one’s imagination do all the terrifying work.

The original “Halloween” works not because it is full of gory kills and jump scares, but because it conveys a message, coming off more like a low-budget art film. “Halloween” (1978) is all about the lie of the suburban lifestyle, where families and society try to ignore evil even when it is born in their own backyard.

Green understands this, making “Halloween” (2018) a narrative not only about the lingering effects of evil within a traumatized family, but about how the younger generation chooses ignorance over experience. This film feels like

a perfect thematic sequel. It even touches on some metatextual themes of obsession with killers and the attempt to understand them.

I would be remiss for not mentioning Curtis playing the part of Strode who literally, and figuratively, kills it. She can be menacing, recreating iconic shots of Myers from the original; but she is also vulnerable as a survivor who has lost everything because of her anxiety.

The film is not devoid of issues, though.

Strode’s granddaughter and her friends have their own half-baked subplots that take away from the interesting dynamic between Myers and Strode. But they’re still interesting parts of the film — I feel like these characters are meant to mirror the original, showing how sub-

urban life has barely changed.

There are also hit-or-miss comedic moments.

Green is mostly known for directing comedies, and while there are hilarious scenes to even out the violence, some of them go on way too long and seem out of place.

“Halloween” (2018) is not as scary or effective as the 1978 original. Instead, it is an immensely entertaining film that mixes the modern expectations of gore and jump scares with traditional suspense and characters. It is all wrapped up in a thematic package that expands on the original, creating a movie that is a good time and a mentally satisfying experience for horror fans.

La Santa Muerte accepts outsiders, helps followers connect with ancestors ADA ROMANO Contributing Writer Death has been widely respected and celebrated, rather than feared, by the people of Mexico since pre-Columbian times — as the center of Mexican folk religion, Our Lady of Holy Death, or Nuestra Señora de la Santa Muerte, is an example of this reverence.

Worship of the figure combines elements of the ancient Aztec religion and Catholicism. Religious syncretism, the blending of two or more religions to create a new system, is common in Latin American countries. This is because people are attempting to preserve the religious traditions of their indigenous ancestors while staying true to the Catholic faith they were raised to follow.

Followers of La Santa Muerte have become more open about their beliefs in the 21st century. The figure is now not only prominent in Mexico, but in parts of the U.S. and Central America as well.

La Santa Muerte is a female deity visualized as a skeletal figure in a long robe holding a scythe — the classic image of death. She is seen as merciful and forgiving by groups of outcasts including drug dealers, sex workers and the LGBTQ community.

The number of devotees has grown because of the sense of inclusion some followers say other religions lack.

Though it provides a safe space for outsiders, the cult — a term used by many of its followers — has received backlash, especially from the Catholic Church, which sees it as wicked and satanic. Contrary to the name, the Catholic Church does not recognize La Santa Muerte as a saint.

Most followers come from a Catholic background, a predominant faith in many Latin American countries.

Joseph Semita of Guadalajara, Mexico grew up in a mainly Catholic household.

He attended seminary school, which prepares students to become pastors, ministers and other religious leaders. Later in life, his family started leaning toward Crypto-Judaism, showing devotion to the Catholic faith on the outside while secretly practicing different religions.

“In my home, we did not pray [to Catholic figures] and we heavily criticized priests,” Semita said.

His grandmother was a spiritualist.

“She read tarot cards to close friends and family only,” Semita said. “She was a good woman, but had a very strange spiritual side.”

Semita first became intrigued by La Santa Muerte at age 8 when he came across a statue of her at a local market.

He prayed to her in secret for two years because his family, especially his devout Catholic mother, saw believing in La Santa Muerte as intolerable. With the diminishment of the family’s own Catholic faith, they began not only to accept, but respect Semita’s beliefs.

“Our ceremonies are very open,” Semita said. “We respect everyone’s ideologies and beliefs. She is set up at an altar with flowers, tequila, bread, candies and money because this is how we believe we must tend to her.”

Rituals for La Santa Muerte can be very similar to those of Catholicism and oth-

er religions. They borrow practices such as baptism and communion. But some followers don’t like the overlap.

“I do not like these kinds of practices very much because they are almost identical imitations of other rituals and we must give La Santa her place,” Semita said.

Semita believes La Santa Muerte is present in every religion because death is part of life. The Lady of Death is important to him because she gives her believers a way to better understand the universe and a means to communicate and connect with their ancestors.

They celebrate El Día de los Muertos as well and believe the holiday’s three-day span — Oct. 31-Nov. 2 — is the time of the year when the veil between the living and the dead is lifted.

Many devout Catholics believe worshipping La Santa Muerte is a gateway to Satanism, which is strongly opposed in the Catholic faith. They have their own recognized saints and see La Santa Muerte as a mockery of them.

Caroline Miller is a devout catholic who highly disapproves of the cult.

“La Santa Muerte is a satanic saint and when you pray to her, you are praying to devils and demons,” Miller said. “You can actually open the door to unknown things that are linked to hell.”

Miller believes that followers of the cult stay faithful to the Lady of Death because of how quickly they can get results. Sometimes, Miller said, prayer in the Catholic religion doesn’t immeIllustration by Steck Von diately yield answers.

“But the truth lies in how strong In general, the cult of La Santa Muerte your faith is,” Miller said. does not have any rules or regulations. They More information can be found regardwelcome people from all walks of life and ing La Santa Muerte at santamuerte.org. do not discriminate based on sexuality, background or any other characteristic.

14 The Commonwealth Times

Quote of the week

“You have to not only love the game, you have to love the training, the practice and the competing.

You have to love everything about it.”

— maya moore, minnesota lynx forward

Illustration by Ellie Erhart

VCU misses its shot with women’s basketball CAITLIN BARBIERI Opinions Editor

The first email about the Men’s Basketball 2018-2019 season went out Aug. 1. I have yet to receive an email about ne of the first times I got excited Women’s Basketball. to be a part of RamNation was at a As a university that takes great pride in Men’s Basketball game. My friends its diversity and its sports, it is disappointand I were dressed head-to-toe in black and ing to see such vast gender inequality. gold, the student section was packed, tickets While Men’s Basketball is statistically were sold out and everyone cheered along to more profitable than women’s, VCU athletics the roaring sound of The Peppas. makes no effort to change that discrepancy.

When the game ended, everyone filed It seems as though VCU only promotes diout of the Siegel Center. The bleachers were versity and equality when it is profitable. bare and Women’s Basketball came out for Title IX states any school receiving fedits game to an empty stadium. eral funds cannot discriminate based on sex.

The inequalities in advertising for Based on that, women’s teams should receive Men’s and Women’s Basketball are so se- just as much advertising as men’s teams. vere, I’m not even sure if anyone knew the During the fall sports season, VCU women’s game followed the men’s.

Athletics sent out emails about Men’s

Soccer, Women’s Soccer, Baseball and Field Hockey. However, for every email I received about the upcoming Men’s Basketball season, there were no emails about Women’s Basketball.

The inequalities in advertising are not only limited to students’ inboxes.

Chili’s Grill and Bar at VCU is the official watch party location for all Men’s Basketball away games, but there is no watch party location for Women’s Basketball away games.

On social media, Men’s Basketball released a professional video on Twitter introducing the team’s alternates while for Women’s Basketball, there were only pictures with stats for each new player.

While Title IX does not mandate equal

dollars be spent on men’s and women’s sports, it does require the teams receive equitable “treatment” and “benefits” — that is obviously not the case with VCU basketball.

These women work incredibly hard to represent our university. If VCU cannot treat the men’s and women’s teams equally, it needs to change its advertising strategy.

It is hypocritical for VCU to tout its diversity and inclusivity, then blatantly favor Men’s Basketball over Women’s. VCU Athletics needs to make more of an effort to promote Women’s Basketball, not only because Title IX mandates it, but because equality is what VCU is supposed to stand for.

registered. You’re bombarded with the same message until you register to vote without actually knowing who or what you are voting for. While these efforts do result in increased voter registration — 61.5 percent of VCU students voted in the 2016 elections, compared to about 50 percent nationally — they do not educate voters. Therefore when Nov. 6 comes around, certain individuals will not be motivated to make it to the polls.

These ways of increasing voting turnout are fine in the short-term, but are not effective enough to keep voter turnout high long-term. According to a report by Pew Research Center, while overall voter turnout between the 2012 and 2016 presidential elections increased, the African-American voting pool decreased, and the voting turnout for other minority groups and women stayed constant. The act of just telling people to go vote isn’t going to help if people don’t know exactly who they’re voting for or why they’re doing it.

I often hear people say they don’t vote because they believe their vote doesn’t matter. If they do go out and vote, but their candidate does not get elected, they become discouraged from voting again.

Illustration by Summer McClure Voting is important and it is crucial that voters are informed on their choices and MARLON MCKAY has been promoted is a horrible approach. understand the significance of their vote.

Contributing Writer

Commercials, teachers, websites, The people telling others to vote should celebrities, even YouTube and Snapchat are be prepared to explain why voting is the Throughout October, two things are ad- spreading the word, trying to get people to cornerstone of our democracy. vertised constantly — Halloween and voting. register to vote. Not only on the internet After the election, Rock the Vote — a Some organizations have tried to increase but wherever you walk, especially on a col- progressive nonprofit aimed at increasing voter turnout. However, the way that voting lege campus, volunteers call out to ask if you the political power of young people — is-

sued a statement saying it would try to mobilize what could be the largest generation of voters. While a college campus is a prime spot for volunteers trying to get students to register to vote, the cause expands beyond the campus.

On Election Day, Lyft and Uber will offer free rides to the polls. There are also more personal incentives given by some teachers and college professors who offer extra credit to their of age students.

While these efforts are a positive way to get individuals to the polls, what they fail to do is educate people on the issues and how they can make a difference. Advocates must teach voters how their votes are counted during the elections and the differences between midterm and presidential elections.

Maybe those discouraged by the electoral college system will be motivated to know direct votes determine midterm elections.

Organizers must explain how the electoral college works and explain which elections will affect the voter’s life more directly to get them more invested. Workers should set up special events around campus and inform people about them through campus services, so as to attract those with an interest in politics and educate newcomers on the importance of voting.

It’s these personal thoughtful interactions that will really leave an impact to both voters and potential voters alike, and will increase turnout over all.

O

The issue of promotion without education

Wed. October 24, 2018 15

Stripping stigma from exotic dancing

Illustration by Steck Von

When I was in high school, I found my sexuality. I used my femininity as a way to cope with depression. I always admired exotic dancers and wondered how they performed so gracefully in front of a room full of strangers.

I don’t think people understand the full picture. Some try to portray dancers as whores, low-down dirty scum of the earth, women with no home training, women who don’t respect themselves. In reality, it’s the exact opposite and I’m tired of the way people talk about strippers.

Over the summer, I entered the world of exotic dancing which made for the best weeks of my life. The women I met were all so different, yet everyone was climbing a pole for something bigger than a small stage in the middle of a lounge. I started dancing for some extra cash, but stayed for the thrill of the stage and the women I met. Being on that stage made me feel alive, in that moment I was unstoppable and I was loved.

That stage can be empowering, but only when you’ve found your own selfworth. Working in the sex industry — an umbrella term which includes stripping, web-camming, prostitution, escorting and porn — provides endless possibilities. I met women who had children and were dancing to provide the best for them. I met women who were starting their own businesses and women who were starting careers but used stripping as a stepping stone.

In a world where it’s hard for women to

actually being able to stay on that stage for your set — usually three songs, or longer if you want to make more money. Stamina and pace are key. Being able to stay on the stage longer is what will make you money.

Stripping is physically demanding on your body — my knees would hurt so much, and sometimes it hurt just to walk. Strippers are in their heels for eight hours straight, sometimes more, for multiple nights in a row.

When you start stripping, it’ll take some time to get used to men staring at you.

You’ll see the lust in their eyes and when you can play into that fantasy, they’ll throw all their money at you. That’s all it is — creating a fantasy for the club patrons.

Despite what some might think, stripping is not an easy route to the top. Yes, it’s quicker, but not easy. You have to be really dedicated. At the end of the day, your money depends on you and the person that comes into the club.

It’s time people stop judging strippers and start seeing the pole as an actual career choice. You might not agree with me, but nothing leads to more networking opportunities than stripping. So many businessmen reach the glass ceiling, stripping seems like physical challenges come with the trade. and women come in the club and if you an obvious choice. Stripping comes with a You have to be somewhat mentally stable build a connection with your clients, they business — like mindset— the dancers set to withstand the club scene. You have to be are more willing to assist you with your their own hours and price. It’s using what able to tolerate the men that come into the dreams. Whether it be starting a beauty you already have naturally to make a profit. club, especially the ones who can’t keep their company, your own dance studio, or a difNo one questions when a man profits off of hands to themselves. Women also must be ferent business, someone walking into the women, their images and their bodies, but prepared for issues with the other dancers club could be the key. This is in addition as soon as women try to make money in the in the club because not everyone is nice. At to the promoters coming into the club that same way, it’s a “cry for help.” Women are certain clubs, women destroy other dancers’ could be willing to promote you and have just turning the tables and people can’t seem possessions when they are intimidated or you host shows for them, leading to even to stop hating on the idea. they feel a dancer is taking their money. more opportunities.

As fun as stripping sounds, mental and Then there’s the physical challenge of Illustration by Kassidy Steffey

MARGRETTA SACKOR Contributing Writer

Kanye’s gone south

BRIANNA SCOTT Contributing Writer

From “Late Registration” to “Ye,” Kanye West has always been a cultural icon — but he recently joined the list of American embarrassments.

West is continuously making headlines, for better or worse. Earlier this month, he raised eyebrows by visiting President Donald Trump in the Oval Office. Yet, West has been in Trump’s corner for a while.

We have to ask ourselves if we can separate the art from the artist because I can’t deny that West has produced amazing music.

Yet, I can’t separate him from his music when he puts personal anecdotes in his tracks and has produced politically charged songs like

“George Bush Doesn’t Care About Black People.” West is his music and it’s hard to listen to him when I know his beliefs.

It’s hard to forget when West tweeted a picture of himself last month wearing the bold, red “Make America Great Again” hat with this caption: “[This hat] represents good and America becoming whole again. We will no longer outsource to other countries. We build factories here in America and create jobs. We will provide jobs for all who are free from prisons as we abolish the 13th amendment.

Message sent with love” I was upset at West’s suggestion that the 13th amendment, which outlawed slavery, should be abolished. This comes after West, in May, said in an interview with TMZ that

slavery was a choice.

“When you hear about slavery for 400 years...For 400 years? That sounds like a choice,” West said to TMZ. “You were there for 400 years and it’s all of y’all.”

This statement attempts to dismiss the acts of resistance by courageous black slaves.

From the slaves who jumped ship because they would rather be dead than in chains, to those who ran away and rebelled, black resistance led to the end of slavery. The Haitian Revolution was one of the most successful slave rebellions in history, created an independent nation and was an influence for Nat Turner’s slave rebellion in Virginia. Slavery was not a choice — and historians agree.

West apologized for what he said, but didn’t retract it. Later on, he tried to explain his 13th amendment tweet in another TMZ interview. West said “abolish” was the wrong word choice, and the 13th amendment enslaves prisoners who are making eight cents a week.

By saying this, West’s tweet is hypocritical. His Yeezy sneakers are made in Chinese sweatshops, according to a report by China Labor Watch, a New York-based non-governmental organization that defends workers’ rights in China. The workers are slaving away for 10 hours, standing without breaks, only to make less than the equivalent of $200 a month. If West cared about outsourcing jobs to other countries and exploiting prisoners, his Yeezys wouldn’t be manufactured on another continent — especially given that a number of Chinese factories outsource prison labor.

Beyond this hypocrisy, visiting Trump in the White House solidified how far gone West is. Press filled the Oval Office to capture the meeting between two people who seem like polar opposites. West said at the meeting wearing the MAGA hat gives him power. He said he didn’t vote for Hillary Clinton because — spoiler alert — she’s a woman.

“The campaign ‘I’m With Her’ just didn’t make me feel — as a guy that didn’t get to see his dad all the time — like a guy who could play catch with his son,” West said

during the Oval Office meeting.

It wasn’t her campaign, it wasn’t because she called young black males “superpredators” in the ‘90s, it wasn’t because of Bill Clinton’s crime bill … it was simply because Hillary is a woman and West has (valid) daddy issues.

West told the reporters he doesn’t answer in simple sound bites because he’s “complex.”

In reality, he just talks in circles and is narcissistic enough to think what he says holds educational value.

People question the sincerity of the things Kanye West says and whether he acts out for publicity. This might be true — but I think West genuinely believes anything that comes out of his mouth to be gospel. The iconic rapper shows a lot of internalized racism, perpetuates misogyny and has reached a level of wealth that prevents him from connecting with anyone — especially those in the black community who look up to him.

I can’t look up to West when I see what he’s become. West’s talent has turned into a mockery. He’s an embarrassment to the black community when he used to be an inspiration.

Fans can no longer chalk his actions up to “Kanye just being Kanye.” West must be held accountable for what he says and does.

West isn’t in the sunken place — he’s just an egotistical, materialistic douche who might need some real mental health help.

In 2016, West was placed on a weeklong psychiatric hold and diagnosed with bipolar disorder. He recently admitted he went off his medication. This isn’t to shame West. Getting help for mental health isn’t something to joke about, and taking care of the mind is as important as taking care of the body. But we can’t keep ignoring West’s actions just to turn up to his music. Stop giving him your coin, streaming his music on platforms that make him money, buying his merchandise and seeing him in concert.

Not supporting West monetarily is a language he will understand. Maybe he will take off that ugly hat and start listening to us instead of going on Saturday Night Live, claiming we’re haters that bully him.

16 The Commonwealth Times THE CT STAFF EXECUTIVE EDITOR Zach Joachim joachimz@commonwealthtimes.org MANAGING EDITOR Georgia Geen geengr@commonwealthtimes.org NEWS EDITOR Nia Tariq news@commonwealthtimes.org SPORTS EDITOR Jessica Wetzler sports@commonwealthtimes.org

Exam Day by Johnny Dell’Angelo

SPECTRUM EDITOR Katie Bashista spectrum@commonwealthtimes.org OPINIONS EDITOR Caitlin Barbieri opinions@commonwealthtimes.org COPY EDITOR Saffeya Ahmed ahmeds@commonwealthtimes.org MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Erin Edgerton photography@commonwealthtimes.org ILLUSTRATIONS EDITOR Steck Von illustrations@commonwealthtimes.org ONLINE EDITOR Kayleigh Fitzpatrick fitzpatrickk@commonwealthtimes.org SPECIAL PROJECTS DIRECTOR Fadel Allassan allassanfg@commonwealthtimes.org STAFF WRITERS Logan Reardon, News reardonlj@vcu.edu Adam Cheek, Sports cheekan@vcu.edu Sam Goodrich, Spectrum goodrichs@commonwealthtimes.org STAFF COLUMNISTS Shaun Jackson, Opinions jacksonsk@commonwealthtimes.org STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Shayla Bailey baileysl4@vcu.edu STAFF ILLUSTRATORS Summer McClure mccluresl@vcu.edu Sammy Newman ymmas97@gmail.com

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ABOUT THE CT The Commonwealth Times is the award-winning independent student newspaper at VCU, since 1969. The CT staff maintains all editorial and operations discretion. There is absolutely no prior review by the public, university or VCU Student Media Center administration or staff. The Executive Editor writes and manages the Operations Budget.

ADD YOUR VOICE The opinions pages of the CT are a forum open to the public. Contributions are welcome by email to Caitlin Barbieri, by mail or in-person at 817 W. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220. Opinions expressed are those of individual columnists and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Commonwealth Times.

Unsigned editorials represent the collective opinion of The CT staff.

The Commonwealth Times strives for accuracy in gathering news. If you think we have made an error, please email the appropriate section editor.

Corrections will appear on the news pages and/or online. One CT per person. Additional copies can be purchased at the Student Media Center for $1 each.

A Meal Well Earned by Paulina Stehr