News: Professor reflects on power of protests Page 6
Opinion: Title IX revisions fail students Page 8
Sports: Deacs up for the challenge Life: Chadwick Boseman leaves against Clemson a legacy Page 11 Page 16
Old Gold&Black
WAKE FOREST’S STUDENT NEWSPAPER SINCE 1916 VOL. 107, NO. 3
T H U R S DAY, S E P T E M B E R 10 , 2 0 2 0 “Cover s the campus like the magnolias”
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Dashboard continues to lack information Students voice concerns about the shortcomings of the COVID-19 dashboard BY JESSICA MARK Asst. News Editor markjf19@wfu.edu
not provided by Wake Forest, nor was the university involved with staffing or monitoring. “The Campaign was allowed to use the lot for parking and was required to comply with laws and orders relative to COVID-19,” Petersen said. “Wake Forest has allowed the use of its facilities for political candidates across the years and does not endorse or contribute to any candidate. A Hillary Clinton event was held at the Joel Coliseum in 2016. Joe Biden and John McCain campaign events used Wake Forest facilities in 2008.” This event not only violated the guidelines set out in Phase 2.5 of opening in North Carolina, which outlines a maximum of 50 people outdoors (socially distant and wearing masks), but also went against Wake Forest’s public health guidelines. The university expects students to continue functioning under the Phase 2 level of reopening with a maximum of 25 people outdoors (socially distant and wearing masks) until further notice.
Across the country, administrators at college campuses have released COVID-19 dashboards, displaying metrics related to the presence of the coronavirus on their campuses. The goal of a college’s COVID-19 dashboard is transparency: it is implemented to equip students, faculty and staff with the information they need to stay aware of the COVID-19 realities on their campus. On Aug. 25, President Nathan Hatch sent a message to the Wake Forest community in which he shared the university’s dashboard. “Wake Forest’s COVID-19 dashboard will display a daily count of known, confirmed positive cases on campus,” Hatch said. On that same day, the dashboard reported a total of eight cases. Since then, the total number of confirmed cases on the dashboard has increased to 56. The dashboard contains dates, positive cases relating to those dates, the total number of known, confirmed cases for the past 14 days and the total number of known, confirmed, positive cases since Aug. 17. As of Sept. 9, the dashboard also differentiates positive cases between faculty/staff and students. It also allows viewers to examine cases within a date range they select. There is a new FAQ section at the bottom of the dashboard, which indicates that “[s]ince beginning pre-arrival testing of students, the university has observed a 2% rate of positive cases among students tested.” Yet, despite these updates, the dashboard is still lacking in other metrics essential to having a complete picture about the virus and its prevalence at the university. Students across campus want more information transparency on the dashboard. Sophomore Nolan Cummings discussed the general consensus among him and his friends about the dashboard. “[T]he COVID-19 dashboard is definitely a step in the right direction; however, it requires significantly more transparency. We would like to see the data presented in other ways than just a bar graph, such as a line graph,” Cummings said. “It would also be informative to have the positivity rates for testing, the number of tests conducted, and the disparities between those who selfreported and those randomly tested ... We understand the logistical challenges Wake [Forest] faces, but greater transparency would help quell student distrust and concern.”
See Trump, Page 5
See Dashboard, Page 6
Photo courtesy of Riley Herriman
President Donald Trump hosted a rally at Smith Reynolds Airport in Winston-Salem on Sept. 8. As shown above, no social distancing guidelines were followed and mask wearing was not enforced.
Trump rally ignores distancing guidelines
The university rented out the LJVM Coliseum parking lot to the Trump campaign for official event parking BY MELISSA COONEY & KALEY VONTZ Staff Writer & Contributing Writer coonme17@wfu.edu & vontkc17@wfu.edu On Tuesday, President Donald Trump arrived in Winston-Salem N.C. via Air Force One to host a campaign rally at the Smith Reynolds Airport, located only three miles from Wake Forest’s campus. At least 1,000 people attended the event, which directly violated the guidelines outlined in North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper’s executive order moving the state into Phase 2.5 of reopening. This event, similar to Trump’s June 19 rally in Tulsa, Okla. and his RNC nomination speech on Aug. 27, has added to the controversy regarding the president’s flouting of COVID-19 regulations and pandemic safety. “I don’t know how many people [are] here, but there’s a lot. We said let’s keep it
down. They didn’t do too good a job, but that’s good. That’s good,” Trump said in the first two minutes of his speech. “Now these crowds, I tell you it’s beyond what we had in terms of enthusiasm, beyond what we had four years ago in 2016, and that was a record enthusiasm and we are breaking that record by a lot.” While the Trump-Pence committee did notify attendees that they “will be temperature checked and security screened,” there was no clear mention of masks or social distancing in the guest instructions email sent the morning of the event. The official event parking location was at Wake Forest’s very own Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial (LJVM) Coliseum, where “shuttles [were] available to transport [attendees] to and from the event” as was mentioned in the same guest instructions email. Vice President of University Advancement Mark Petersen explained to the Old Gold & Black that the Trump campaign paid a “standard fee” to use the parking lot, and that the transportation to and from the event was
OGB
“ University irresponsibly provides rally parking This column represents the views of the Old Gold & Black Editorial Board.
WFU chose to enable a possible super spreader gathering under the guise of hosting campaign events across party lines."
In making the decision to report remotely on President Donald Trump’s Winston-Salem rally, the Old Gold & Black considered both the safety of our writers and the need to continue following Wake Forest’s public health addendum to the code of conduct. College Republicans and Democrats had a similar idea — they both emailed their members and advised them not to attend the event, as it would go against university guidelines. So, it came with great surprise to our Editorial Board to learn that Wake Forest had rented out the Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial (LJVM) Coliseum lot to the Trump campaign for official event parking. Although the university said that those who used the parking were required to follow laws and orders related
to COVID-19, our reporting shows that attendees were not wearing masks in the parking lot and were not in complete guidance with social distancing requirements (read more on page one). Regardless of what unsafe gatherings occurred while Trump supporters waited to be transported to the Smith Reynolds Airport, the more egregious action of Wake Forest is their complicity in providing resources that allowed an event which blatantly disregarded state, local and university policies to take place. Winston-Salem residents who attended
the rally put themselves in a position to get infected with the virus and have since returned to their neighborhoods, places of work and local businesses, effectively putting the entire city at risk. How can Wake Forest tell their students to ‘Show Humanitate’ while simultaneously profiting off of a mass gathering that directly puts our community in danger? The rally packed attendees into the stands and seats, with red hats outnumbering masks 100-1 according to reporting from the Winston-Salem Journal. All of the language surrounding student behavior focuses on the importance of collective action and sacrifice so that we can stay on campus and protect ourselves and others. Wake Forest playing any role in the gathering of large groups in Winston-Salem is completely anti-
thetical to their marketing campaign and messaging of the semester. Even further, students are facing extreme consequences for flouting university guidelines. While we are not denouncing the need for sanctions to ensure that the campus stays open, it is extremely hypocritical for Wake Forest not to hold itself to the same standard to which it is holding its students. This is not about politics, and this is not about partisanship. The university could have refused to provide this service to the Trump campaign, noting that participating in any aspect of the event goes against the university’s philosophy on addressing the coronavirus. Instead, our university chose to enable a possible super spreader gathering under the guise of its history of hosting campaign events across party lines.
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THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF WAKE FOREST UNIVERSIT Y SINCE 1916 OLIVIA FIELD
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News | Old Gold & Black
Thursday, September 10, 2020 | Page 3
Deacon Profile: Miles Middleton
There are a lot of people on campus really trying to do those things.
BY CATE PITTERLE Contributing Writer pittcj20@wfu.edu
You ran on a platform of social justice. Do you think the university's response to the Black Lives Matter protests was effective? Did it go far enough?
The combination of COVID-19 and a nationwide racial justice movement has reinforced the need for discussions and dialogue on campus more than ever, and no person has come more into the spotlight than Student Government President Miles Middleton. Molded by, as he described them, his values of “service and duty,” Middleton has worked across campus on both issues. In an extraordinary year, he’s focusing on keeping the community engaged, safe, and accountable. Middleton is a senior from Amityville, N.Y. with majors in politics & international affairs and history.
Absolutely. I think the university made the right first steps. I think we still have a lot of work to do. We're not putting anything against the university, but we would like to see a little more initiative, a little more work put in. Which they’ve done — the President’s commission has come out with a report. That’s a long-term thing. And we need to think longterm rather than in the short-term. We need to institutionalize different things for our minority students that will last long and build foundations for the future. What that pertains to with everything on campus now, we have to protect and more so assert the fact that there is an election coming up. We have to be able to deal with the aftermath and be able to respond effectively.
What would you say to students who are nervous about COVID-19 spreading on campus? I like to say keep hope, keep faith, be encouraged. You look at the dashboard, you look at where we are in our country and whatnot, and it's very hard to stay hopeful. But I really do believe Wake Forest can stay on campus through November. I mean it's been what, three weeks? All we have to do is just keep it up. Now there's a different issue, there are so many people, particularly freshmen, who feel isolated, who feel completely alone. They're just stuck in their dorms and they just don't know what to do. We have to find ways to get them out of dorm rooms to connect with people and find their groups. A lot of things, like the First Year in Focus program, are good for freshmen to join, having a mentor. I think doing the Dating Deacons thing is fun too. Look out for student organizations emails as well. We need to make sure all freshmen have those opportunities. And more specifically, it's a matter of can these freshmen reach me. I want them to know that they can reach me anytime, especially if they have a concern and something they want to bring up to the administration. That's the only way that I can help you, so I really encourage people to reach out to me. Cases spiked over the weekend. What problems do you see with the current COVID-19 trends on campus?
As a Student Government leader, what steps do want to take regarding racial issues on campus and what steps are you taking right now? Photo courtesy of Miles MIddleton
I've got to say, if we're talking about Aug. 17 being the start date and we have 46 cases [as of Monday], I think we're in a good spot. The thing is, if we don’t adapt to what the issues are around us, we're going to fall on the sword. We as a community have to hold students accountable. When people are packing 30 people into their dorm rooms or going off-campus to a party, we have to be able to call that out. That's what is making cases go up. It's not fraternities, it's not sororities, it could be anyone. How is Student Government working to build a sense of community this semester? We are trying to utilize our committees more, to focus on our individual work and prompt more initiatives for students. I know a lot of our Stu-
dent Government representatives are working with Campus Rec, our Diversity and Inclusion Office and our faculty and staff. I can’t take credit for anything. It’s people down on the committee level, figuring out how we can better the Wake Forest community. What would you say to students, especially freshmen and transfer students, who are having a hard time finding a sense of community? I don't want to say, well get out there and do something. What I want to say is look up student organizations. Go on the Link or look at the videos from the Virtual Involvement Fair. Try to find a group that identifies with you and that you can identify with and carry on with it. I got into Student Government because I identified with service and leadership.
From the Student Government side, we've created an Election Task Force. We’re working heavily to make sure that one, we’re getting the voter turnout up, and two, making sure people know they can vote right up the street at the First Assembly Church. So that’s one thing. There are also a few things the administration will be rolling out in the coming month or so, about different committees that are being created to go over Wake Forest University policies and things like that. I know they’re looking into courses, a diversity module that students had to take. That was new. Those are good steps right there. Of course modules, of course voting, of course the committees that might be coming up. And then obviously the institutionalized things that President Nathan Hatch outlined. I think those are the things we need right now. Editor's note: This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity and AP style.
POLICE BEAT COVID-19 Violation/Underage Consumption • Offenders were observed not wearing a protective face mask at ZSR Library. The report was filed on Sept. 1 at 3:15 p.m. • Report of a violation of guest policy issued in Davis. Students complied and left room. No one present was wearing masks. The report was filed on Sept. 3 at 12:41 p.m. • Offenders were found to have guests in excess of the allowed number at Poteat. All individuals present admitted to consuming alcohol underaged. The report was filed on Sept. 5 at 12:19 a.m. • Report of an unauthorized party issue for a room in Huffman. The five suspects were found in the room not wearing masks and in violation of of the guest limit.
Alcohol was also found in the room. The report was filed on Sept. 5 at 12:53 a.m. • Offenders were found to have guests in excess of the allowed number in Poteat. The report was filed on Sept. 5 at 1:04 a.m. • Offenders were found to in possession of alcohol underage in Magnolia. The report was filed on Sept. 5 at 1:57 a.m. Miscellaneous • Victim was punched in the face by the offender on Hearn Plaza. The report was filed on Sept. 5 at 9:09 p.m. • Unknown subject(s) took secured bike from bike rack behind NCA. The report was filed on Sept. 6 at 2:09 p.m.
Old Gold & Black | News
Page 4 | Thursday, September 10, 2020
Hatch announces diversity updates Following the release of the commission’s report, the university provides further plans BY OLIVIA FIELD Editor-in-Chief fielor17@wfu.edu After releasing the commission on Race, Equity and Community’s final report in early June, President Nathan Hatch sent an email to the university on Sept. 5 to provide an update on diversity and inclusion efforts at Wake Forest. Detailing changes across three categories — student experience, campus climate and community engagement — Hatch shared progress updates in relation to the 20 recommendations set out by the commission’s final report. According to Hatch, the demographic breakdown of the class of 2024 marked an increase in domestic students of color, who represent 24% of the class (as compared to 21% last year). He also notes further representation of Pell Grant recipients and firstgeneration students. These updates coincide with the first two recommendations proposed by the commission. Their first recommendation calls for an increase of the financial aid budget by 2034, and provides two different pathways for doing so. The second one recommends changes to both the recruitment process and the philosophy of admissions, in which they highlight the benefits of building relationships with community-based organizations. These two recommendations, alongside the 18 others, are the product of months of effort from the commission on Race, Equity and Community — which was spearheaded by Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion José Villalba and Associate Dean for Faculty Recruitment, Diversity, and Inclusion Erica Still, and included students, faculty and staff from across campus. As noted by Hatch, the updates provided in his Sept. 5 email are part of a continuous and long-term effort to implement many of the commission’s recommendations.
“We know these are complex issues, and while it would be amazing to achieve all of the recommendations in a short timeframe, we recognize that steady progress and ongoing commitment are the most important outcomes. Some of this work is already well underway; for example, there is support for the Wake Forest Freedom School and for the African American Studies Program,” Still and Villalba said in a joint statement to the Old Gold & Black. “In this regard, we feel the steps taken this summer, in conjunction with our plans for operationalizing the recommendations this fall, are reflective of and in line with the pace and nature of diversity, inclusion and equity work.” Still and Villalba also noted progress in the recent implementation of the Realizing Inclusion, Diversity and Equity (RIDE) framework on campus, a program for working towards diversity and inclusion goals at the individual, departmental/ organizational and institutional level. When discussing the student experience, Hatch also noted the introduction of a diversity, equity and inclusion educational model that undergraduate students are required to complete beginning this semester. Junior Ally Swartzberg, who served on the student social belonging subcommittee, echoed the notion that implementing all of the changes outlined in the report will take substantial effort and time. “The new diversity, equity and inclusion training module for first year students and the critical gaze directed on the cultural diversity requirement are important steps. I’m also optimistic about the formation of committees to further assess our practices as an institution and implement real, tangible changes,” Swartzberg said. “I am also realistic, and I think what can be done with all the COVID-19 regulations is limited. I think if we look at the recommendations and the current environment, we can remain hopeful that they will be implemented, but some of the goals may take a little longer with everything else pulling focus.”
Two further recommendations were also noted in Hatch’s update letter: addressing bias in the faculty hiring process and the possible renaming of buildings on campus. Specifically, Hatch announced the creation of an advisory committee on naming that will focus on researching the context of buildings, roadways or other structures named after university figures. The committee, which is co-chaired by Trustee Donna Boswell and Dean of the Divinity School Jonathan Lee Walton, will make recommendations to Hatch and the Board of Trustees on whether to remove and rename a structure, or to further contextualize it. Although the university has not announced further plans or details about this committee, it is possible that buildings such as Wait Chapel, Poteat and Taylor residence halls will be considered in this work. According to the 1840 U.S. Census, Samuel Wait, who served as president of Wake Forest from 1833 to 1846, owned four slaves. Serving as president of the university from 1884 to 1905, Charles Taylor is also documented as having served for the Confederate Army during the Civil War. As chronicled in a collection on Taylor from the University of Virginia’s Special Collection Department, he served under both General Robert E. Lee and General Stonewall Jackson. William Poteat, who was university president from 1905 to 1927, was extensively involved in the movement supporting eugenics. “Whether the Commission on Race, Equity, or Community or the Slavery, Race and Memory Project, campus leaders have worked diligently to tell a broader, and more inclusive, story about the history of Wake Forest University,” Walton explained to the Old Gold & Black. “The names honored throughout the campus must reflect their work.” In the last section of his message, Hatch outlined efforts to enhance the university’s community engagement. Alongside an announcement that Wake Forest is participating in an effort to raise $1 million
for Black-owned businesses in WinstonSalem, he also outlined the Boston-Thurmond Community Network initiative. This community effort will focus on supporting the Boston-Thurmond neighborhood, which has been disproportionately affected by COVID-19 both in terms of the health and economic impacts. As the report was released in the thick of protests decrying the death of George Floyd at the hands of police, Still and Villalba explained how the commission’s report attempts to grapple with the pervasiveness of systemic racism. “It starts by acknowledging the roots of the problem and then connects that history to the contemporary moment. In other words, the report builds the bridge between a history of slavery and the ongoing manifestations of the racism that made slavery possible. We have to recognize that the racism we decry today is grounded in a longer pattern,” Still and Villalba said. “We also have to recognize that the civic demonstrations and protests we see today are part of a larger history as well — the fight against racism is not new, and the antiracist work we are doing now flows from a long tradition. The report attempts to name the history — both good and bad — that brings us to this sustained movement. Then it attempts to set a path forward, to help imagine and to institute steps toward a more equitable and just society.” Junior Kate Pearson, who served on the commission, similarly noted that this report is only one dimension of the work that needs to be done. “We need to tear down the walls of white supremacy brick by brick and replace them with equitable structures promoting inclusivity, access and justice. In the grand scheme of things, this report is just a first step, but certainly one in the right direction,” Pearson said. “I would like to see more radical investment in antiracist work throughout the campus and not just from Black and Brown students, faculty, staff and their allies. I want every student to feel invested in the work and push for positive change.”
New state restrictions bring more flexibility Phase 2.5 of North Carolina’s COVID-19 restrictions will allow more indoors activities BY JACKSON BUTTLER Contributing Writer buttjt20@wfu.edu On Sept. 1, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper announced during a press conference that the state will enter Phase 2.5 of COVID-19 restrictions, “continuing our state’s dimmer switch approach to easing some restrictions.” Unlike many other Southern states, North Carolina has not been quick to reopen, allowing the state to maintain a higher degree of control over the spread of the virus compared to many of its neighbors. Beginning Friday Sept. 4, at 5 p.m., the state moved into “Safer at Home” Phase 2.5, easing restrictions on gathering limits (both indoor and outdoor), exer-
cise facilities, museums, aquariums and playgrounds. This easing of restrictions stands as an important step for both the state of North Carolina as well as the university in the process of returning back to normal life. The 22-page order, among other things, allows for exercise facilities (including places like bowling alleys) to reopen at 30% capacity, increases indoor gathering limits from 10 to 25 and increases outdoor gathering limits from 25 to 50. Further, the order allows for playgrounds to reopen as well as museums and aquariums at 50% capacity; however, bars, nightclubs, movie theaters, indoor entertainment centers and amusement parks will remain closed across the state. Perhaps most importantly, on Sept. 3 the university announced the easing of restrictions that allow the Sutton Center — a cornerstone of campus life at Wake Forest — to take steps toward reopening.
While the gym will look incredibly different from how it looked when students left campus last March, students can still look forward to more exercise and study spaces starting Tuesday, Sept. 8. According to Executive Director of Campus Fitness and Recreation Joe Cassidy, students can expect indoor weight lifting facilities to open as opposed to the current outdoor setup. Equipment will be available by reservation only to 38 students at a time, more during a single hour than was possible during a whole day with the previous configuration, Cassidy said. Students will be required to wear masks and remain socially distant while exercising. Some areas, such as cardio and indoor basketball, will remain closed indefinitely and be converted to study spaces instead, primarily to make up for lost study space in traditional study locations such as ZSR Library and Benson University Center due to social distancing guidelines. Mean-
while, students will be able to utilize the rock wall, pool and weight facilities, at limited capacity, by reservation only. Other than the reopening of the gym, much on campus will remain the same despite the state’s shifting to Phase 2.5 of reopening. Gathering limits will remain at 10 indoors and 25 outdoors while on campus and the residence hall guest policy also remains unchanged. The university also announced the rollout of a new random testing program, in which around 500 students will be randomly chosen each week to receive COVID-19 testing, primarily to track the prevalence of the virus among students who may not present symptoms. The university will “consult with public health officials and consider results from the first few weeks of our random testing program before potentially increasing our gathering limits to the new state levels” the administration said in a community wide message.
News | Old Gold & Black
Thursday, September 10, 2020 |Page 5
Trump: state, local laws overlooked Continued from Page 1
“When I drove by the [LJVM Coliseum], I saw … tailgating and [people] sitting around without masks. The parking there was publicized on the roads near campus, as well as shuttles to the event,” said senior Samantha Wexler. “I feel like it is hypocritical to help enable this event to take place and make it easier for students and community members to attend. Meanwhile, we are under such intense regulations and peer pressure to wear a mask, social distance, etc. People came in from all over North Carolina and local states for this, no one is wearing a mask and there were over 1,000 people there.” The Old Gold & Black obtained an email to a student from Justin Van Nice, the assistant athletic director of external events and facility operations who oversees the management of the LJVM Coliseum, in regards to Wake Forest’s role in providing parking for the event. “As someone who was on-site all day, to my best knowledge, we made clear and conscious efforts to ensure tailgating did not happen. We had random police checks, staff walking up and down the parking lots at multiple points throughout the day to ensure this did not occur,” Van Nice said in the email. Old Gold & Black Online Managing Editor Elizabeth Maline was present in the parking lot minutes before attendees returned to the Coliseum after the event, and observed groups of supporters who remained gathered in the parking lot and were not wearing masks or adhering to social distancing guidelines. Because of the clear violation of Wake Forest’s COVID-19 policies that would occur if a student attended, College Republicans President Lisa Highet and College Democrats President Samatha Horowitz, both seniors, joined together and agreed to email their organization members and encourage them to not attend the rally. These emails were the personal decisions of both College Democrats and College Republicans in an effort to comply with COVID-19 policies and to reduce the spread of the virus in the Winston-Salem community.
“It’s exciting to be involved but we don’t want to be sent home,” Horowitz said. “We thought it was important to send something out to discourage people from going to events or counter-events because it could really jeopardize the rest of our semester here.” Highet echoed these thoughts in agreement with Horowitz. “The majority of my email is talking about our obligation as students to the university. Even though College Republicans is a club, we still belong to Wake and want to abide by Wake’s guidelines to keep our community safe. We want to stay here for the remainder of the semester,” Highet said. Both presidents were confident in their members’ ability to abide by Wake Forest’s code of conduct. “One thing I love about Wake Forest is that College Republicans and College Democrats have a really great relationship with each other,” Highet said. “I think it was so awesome that [Horowitz] and I were both able to come out with similar messages to our members.” Regardless of affiliation to a political club on campus, some students were generally disappointed in Wake Forest’s association with the event from a COVID-19 perspective, given the university’s strict policies that the students and faculty members are required to follow on an everyday basis. The Office of the Dean of Students did not reply to the Old Gold & Black’s request for a statement regarding whether or not attending the event was against the public health addendum to the code of conduct. However, the Undergraduate Student Conduct Code Public Health Emergency Addendum states that: “students must comply with limitations established by the university on the number of individuals permitted to gather in indoor and outdoor spaces. These prohibitions on mass gatherings apply to social events and activities held on and off campus.” In the email obtained by the Old Gold & Black, Van Nice expressed the university’s desire to bring diverse programming to campus and looked toward the potential of hosting other campaign events for both political parties during this election cycle.
Elizabeth Maline/Old Gold & Black
The LJVM Coliseum lot was the official parking location for attendees of the rally. There were multiple stalls selling Trump merchandise. “In true Pro Humanitate fashion, we believe in providing a variety of diverse options for the Wake Forest and WinstonSalem community at the LJVM Coliseum. Being an election year in a battleground state, we fully expect to receive more requests from both of the major political parties and hope to reach a similar agreement with the Biden campaign too, if asked or needed,” Van Nice said in the email. However, COVID-19 has drastically altered the traditional definition of political campaigning. Though Trump has held multiple large in-person campaign events during the past few months, the Biden campaign has no plan to hold inperson events of the same size or scale as the Trump campaign. The Chicago Tribune reported on Aug. 31 that the Biden team is expecting to hold smaller events, in which attendees would adhere to strict social distancing guidelines and be required to wear masks.
Austin Cook, the Communications Director at the North Carolina Democratic Party, said that it is possible that former Vice President Joe Biden and Senator Kamala Harris will make a campaign appearance in the Winston-Salem area in the coming months. However, he stressed that they will only hold an event that adheres to guidelines put forth by the state, so as not to put anyone at risk for contracting the virus. “They want to be doing this in as safe a way as possible,” Cook said. “The guidance in most of these battleground states has been not to do public events because it generally has not been a very safe thing to do over the last couple of months.” Throughout the speech, Trump told the crowd that North Carolina “should be open,” despite the fact that the prevalence of COVID-19 has prohibited the state from proceeding past Phase 2.5 of reopening.
Photos courtesy of Riley Herriman
(Left) In addition to the main crowd, there was also an overflow section for attendees. (Right) Trump addressed the reopening of North Carolina multiple times, noting that the Republican candidate for governor, Dan Forest, would open the state. Forest has hosted multiple in person events during the pandemic.
Old Gold & Black | News
Page 6 | Thursday, September 10, 2020
Dashboard: new data points added Continued from Page 1
Information such as the total number of tests conducted would provide the Wake Forest community with a more accurate picture of the coronavirus’ presence on campus. A total case tally of 56, according to latest figures, can mean vastly different things depending on the total number of tests conducted. Identifying 56 cases out of 500 tests (the expected tally of weekly random tests as reported last week) would yield a positivity rate of 11.2%, whereas finding 56 confirmed, positive cases out of just 80 tests would present a far worrisome positivity rate of 70%. More information, including the total number of tests conducted, is no stranger to the dashboards at other schools in North Carolina. UNC-Chapel Hill’s dashboard includes the total number of
tests, the number of clusters within each residence hall and the number of students in isolation and quarantine. Duke University’s dashboard, or COVID-19 Testing Tracker, discloses not only the number of students, faculty and staff tested, but also how many of those tests were administered through random testing versus those who were symptomatic or contact-traced. In addition to reporting the number of new cases daily, Elon University’s dashboard indicates the number of estimated active cases, the number of students in quarantine/isolation and even the number of people hospitalized. The university’s decision to limit its dashboard information continues to be at odds with its peer higher education institutions. “I definitely think they could show more and make an effort to share the information out via email or their social media on
either a weekly or monthly basis for people who don’t consistently check but that should be informed,” said senior Marlee Murray. More information, however, should be added to the dashboard soon. The new FAQ section under the dashboard states that “planned updates to the dashboard will provide the number of tests administered by the university and distinguish between tests administered to a random student population and tests administered for other reasons.” The FAQ section indicates that these updates will be implemented in mid-September. They also plan to include the approximate number of off-campus clinical tests, as well as hospitalizations. Sophomore Max Shenkman expressed his desire for more information about the virus’ presence on campus.
“I would really appreciate having more information,” Shenkman said. “Other schools are definitely doing a better job at being considerate to their students and telling them about what’s going on and just being clear.” Additionally, sophomore Sarah Leary described the limited amount of information on the dashboard as “scary.” “It just feels like we’re very in the dark,” Leary said.
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Professor reflects on power of protests Brittany Battle was arrested in Winston-Salem for peaceful protesting BY ELIZABETH MALINE Online Managing Editor mailed17@wfu.edu This summer, Americans watched in awe of the events that unfolded following the death of George Floyd, which prompted a resurgence in the Black Lives Matter Movement. Protesters gathered in large numbers, often clashing with police, to chant the names of the fallen: Breyonna Taylor in Louisville, Rayshard Brooks in Atlanta, George Floyd in Minneapolis and then John Neville in Winston-Salem. While many Wake Forest students and community members organized and participated in Black Lives Matter protests in their own communities during remote learning, Dr. Brittany Battle, an assistant professor in the university’s sociology department, has been a critical actor in the fight for racial justice in Winston-Salem. Battle describes herself as a scholaractivist, teaching courses like “Social Justice in the Social Sciences,” which outlines ways that activism and commitments to justice work appear in sociology and other social science disciplines. “They can’t be separated for me. My scholarship and my role as an academic and my activism, they’re completely intertwined,” Battle said. Early in the summer, Battle began working with the Triad Abolition Project, an organization that focuses on abolishing the carceral system and educating people about the historical development of different policing policies and procedures. The group successfully petitioned against Senate Bill 168, which would have made all death records completely confidential for those who die while incarcerated had it become law. But after a July 8 press conference that announced the charging of five police officers and one nurse with involuntary manslaughter in relation to Neville’s death on Dec. 4, Battle and the organization shifted their focus.
“Many of us were just disgusted by the press conference that the District Attorny (DA) [Jim O’Neill] and the Sheriff [Bobby Kimbrough] held. The ways that they talked about the people involved in Mr. Neville’s death being ‘good people,’ for me that was horrifying,” Battle said. Neville died four days after Kernersville police arrested him on a misdemeanor charge of assault on a female. Doctors at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital found that Neville had a brain injury after suffering an apparent seizure in his cell. The brain injury was apparently caused by officers placing him in a prone restraint, a controversial restraint technique. “For DA O’Neill during that press conference to also threaten to prosecute peaceful protesters in Winston and put us basically in the same sentence as the people who were just charged with involuntary manslaughter, it was just unbelievable for him to say.” According to Battle, Black Lives Matter of Winston-Salem called for an emergency rally outside the Forsyth County Sheriff’s office after the press conference. She recounts that relations between protestors and police took a violent turn following the press conference, and that police responded to protesters using large canisters of pepper spray, long range acoustic devices (LRAD) — which can cause deafness — and zipties to arrest protesters. “Winston-Salem police and our elected officials were marching alongside us and participating in marches all summer until we started protesting about something that happened here, and it seems very clear to me that they were trying to intimidate us away from shining a light on what happened in Forsyth County Detention Center,” she said. “It was fine when we were saying the names of Breyonna Taylor and George Floyd and Ahmaud Arbery and Tony McDade, but when we started to say the name of John Neville, people got very afraid.” Later that night, Battle was arrested by two officers on charges of impeding traffic, along with three other protesters. She said that the “impeding traffic”
charge was historically used to target freedom fighters during the civil rights movement. “There is one picture of me being taken across the street and there are at least three other people in the street and none of those other three people were arrested.” She notes that some of these protesters were non-Black and were not affiliated with the leadership of any of the participating organizations. According to the Winston-Salem Journal, police rode around during the protests warning people that they could be arrested for impeding traffic or illegally blocking city streets. But Battle describes being genuinely shocked that she was arrested, since she was not in the street. She recounts pleading for them to let go of her wrist because she felt they were going to break her arm. Immediately after she was released, she went to the emergency room. “It’s now over two months since it happened and I’m still in physical therapy. I still have to wear a wrist brace,” she said. As established leaders and vocal activists, Battle believes she and the other protesters were targeted and that their arrests were intentional. But Battle expressed that the sociology department has been very supportive of her work and released a statement on July 12 after she was arrested. “Several administrators reached out to me directly to offer support, to make sure I had legal counsel and to just say that they were standing in solidarity with the work that I was doing,” she said. Following several days of intense protests, the Triad Abolition Project, in partnership with the Unity Coalition staged Occupy WSNC, which lasted 49 days. It concluded after the group’s two demands were met by the Forsyth County Sheriff’s office: banning the bent-leg prone restraint, the maneuver that led to Neville’s death and ensuring the Sheriff notifies the public when any incarcerated individual dies in custody. “We were definitely proud to have had the demands met because I think having those two demands met makes Forsyth county a little safer for us all,” she said. “But we know that the world of aboli-
tion is a long-term project and that we just have to continue to chip away at the institutions which reinforce white supremacy and racism and racial inequality.” Battle also noted that after spending more than 49 consecutive days together protesting and occupying Bailey Park in downtown Winston-Salem, the participants became a family. She enjoyed watching her fellow protestors learn more about civic engagement and government. “I have said many times that the way that we developed our movement was for it to be multidimensional,” Battle said. To achieve this objective, the occupation hosted several educational programs on social justice featuring professors from the university, including Dr. Derek Hicks, Dr. Andrea Gómez Cervantes from the sociology department, K. Monet Rice-Jallah who was the assistant chaplain and J. Mai, who is the graduate assistant with the LGBTQ center and a student in the School of Divinity. The group also welcomed musicians, held marches and vigils and hosted massousts and yoga instructors, who helped the group focus on self-care during their long days at the occupation. But now that the occupation has concluded, Battle looks forward to continuing her work with the Triad Abolition Project. She also weighed in on how the university can actively combat racial injustice and reconcile with its controversial history. “Understanding that our original endowment was built on the sale of enslaved Africans and engaging with that history through the Slavery, Race and Memory project is really a good start for the type of reflection that Wake needs to do,” Battle said. “The next step comes with actual action.” Battle outlined several concrete ways the university is working to improve race relations on campus, including developing an African American studies department, which will be headed by Dr. Cory Walker. “If we understand that we have been complicit in upholding white supremacy, then we have to devote resources to dismantling white supremacy,” she said.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
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Monkeys model human addictive behaviors Addiction studies on monkeys show the effects that drugs can have on the human brain BY MAGGIE BURNS Science &Technology Editor burnme17@wfu.edu
In the United States drug addiction has been stigmatized for quite some time as a lack of self-control or personal responsibility. But many scientists and researchers are working to change the tides of that stigma to create a better addiction treatment system. Dr. Michael Nader is a researcher and professor of Physiology and Pharmacology at Wake Forest University in the Neuroscience department. Nader is currently conducting research in his lab to ultimately demonstrate the inadequacies of incarceration as the treatment for drug addiction. Nader’s research subjects are being studied for the effect that addiction has on their brains when it is paired with other factors such as social isolation. The patients aren’t human, though — they’re monkeys. Nader and others in the lab conduct research on addiction in the brain not only to understand addiction’s effects on the brain, but also to advocate for proper addiction treatments instead of incarceration. The monkeys in Nader’s lab are a good model for human addiction because they self-administer drugs, cocaine specifically. This means that when available, the monkeys will use drugs much like a human would. When a person chronically uses a drug, their cognitive, behavioral and neurobiological processes become disrupted. This means that drugs have an effect on the brain that can change almost every aspect of a person’s life. Highly addictive drugs, like cocaine, have the ability to alter neural pathways, which means that the internal structure of the brain is changed dramatically. Addiction can cause a multitude of health issues and in many cases result in death. Additionally, drugs have stronger effects on reward systems in the brain than anything else. The reward system is the part of the brain that makes us feel good when we do something we enjoy. People who are not addicted to drugs experience a normal and pleasurable influx of the neurotransmitter dopamine when doing an activity like eating or exercising. However, when someone uses a drug they experience much higher rates of dopamine release. After experiencing such a high influx when using a drug, the reward experience of those other activities begins to feel greatly diminished.
Photo courtesy of Star Tribune/TNS
Monkeys are being used as subjects in a Wake Forest lab to study the effects of cocaine on the human brain. Researchers on campus are studying alternative treatments to avoid incarceration for drug use. Suddenly, eating chocolate cake or having sex is not as pleasureable as it used to be for the drug user. Eventually, that dopamine rush will be diminished with the original dosage of drugs, causing the person to use more and more. This is the downward spiral that addiction creates within the brain and body. Some behavioral and physiological consequences that can result from addiction include but are not limited to tolerance, withdrawal, continued use, and recurrent failure to complete obligations such as school or work. The aim of Nader’s lab at Wake Forest is “combining behavioral models of drug abuse in monkeys with brain imaging to better understand the effects of drugs of abuse,” as stated on the lab website. When a person is addicted to drugs, there are a few strategies to address that addiction. The most common of those strategies in the U.S. are incarceration and interdiction (decreasing the supply). However, individualized treatment and alternate reinforcers in the environment are other viable options which Nader pointed out. Alternative reinforcement means that drug abusers are motivated to stop using through external, positive
reinforcers such as adequate housing, jobs and social support. This reinforcement has the potential to reduce the stigma that drug users must be incarcerated. According to a report released by the FBI, nearly 830,000 Americans were arrested for “drug abuse violations” in 2018 alone. The data also shows that this number has been steadily rising since 2015. In a 2016 report released by the Federal Register, the average cost to keep an inmate in jail for a year is nearly $37,000. This accrues to a cost of over $820 million for the U.S. economy. While billions of dollars are spent to keep drug offenders in jail, substantially less money is spent on research around addiction and alternative treatment methods. Nader pointed out that money spent on addiction research is far better than spending it to keep drug abusers in prison. Nader and those working in his lab call for drug intervention programs that attack the issue of addiction on an individual level. Ben Johnson, a graduate research associate in Nader’s lab, also works to understand addic-
tion and the brain through animal research. Johnson said that when someone is addicted to a drug, “[their] brain is changed and without some kind of intervention it’s going to say that way.” Nader’s research also shows that individuals have varying rates of recovery. Some individuals may be more prone to relapse than others, due to variances in the make-up of individual brains. Through his work, Nader is destigmatizing addiction and attempting to understand appropriate treatment methods. “Without a doubt [addiction] is a brain disease that can change your brain, sometimes forever,” Nader said. The research being done in Nader’s lab has the potential to influence public policy. Nader argues that policies which allow for treatment of drug abuse aside from incarceration must be put in place in order to tackle the drug abuse issue in the U.S. “If you care about humankind, you would want to treat the individual,” Nader said. “And if you think incarceration is the way to go, well, it doesn't work.”
OPINION
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a t : w w w. w f u o g b . c o m E D IT O R : J a c k P o r t m a n , p o r t j t 17 @ w f u . e d u A S S I S TA N T E D I T O R S : R y a n K i n g , k i n g r m 17 @ w f u . e d u Alexandra Karlinchak, karlae18@wfu.edu
OLD GOLD & BLACK
The views expressed in all opinion columns represent those of the article’s author, not the opinions of the Old Gold & Black Editorial Board
“ Pandemic presents new forms of romance Love in the time of COVID-19
Adapting relationships to new circumstances can open up avenues for growth
Ansley McNeel
Guest Columnist mcnear19@wfu.edu
At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and global quarantine, universities suddenly sent thousands of students home from their campuses. Because of this, many college aged couples were suddenly thrown into unexpected long-distance relationships. Although long distance relationships are notorious for prolonging painful breakups, I believe that in the context of surviving quarantine, couples grew tremendously in the quality of their relationships. It is important to note that the timeline of long-distance relationships was both unknown and relatively short in scale - each member of the pairing knew that when they would eventually return to college, they could regain relative normalcy in their relationship
Relationships ... strengthened during quarantine because people felt emotionally isolated when they were sent home.” on. This being so, quarantine couples could rely on the knowledge that the long-distance status of their relationship would be temporary. This provided comfort in knowing that when the world began to open up again, their relationship could progress as usual. Additionally, because the pandemic essentially shut down most group activities for the public, FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) was not an essential factor in the long-distance dance. Each individual in the relationship was likely not out making new friends or creating life experiences without the other member of the relationship. This allowed for each member of the couple to feel a similar degree of familiarity with their significant other’s life and routine - there are no new “players” to keep track of and try to understand from afar. Next, it is important to discuss the positive affect technology has on long distance relationships in this age. With the progression of phones, computers and accompanying applications, long distance couples had a plethora of activities to choose to use for virtual date night. Browser extensions such as
Scener and Netflix Party allowed for couples to synchronously watch their favorite shows together while still hearing their significant other’s voice and seeing their face. FaceTime allowed for couples to show each other where they were at a given moment. Apple watches allowed couples to send haptic taps to each other when they were thinking of one another. The list goes on. For the reasons listed above, long distance relationships could maintain their strength during the pandemic. However, relationships grew and strengthened during this time for a very interesting reason - individuals themselves experienced vast personal growth. Quarantine sparked people to find new hobbies, go outside and connect with nature, and learn more about their own headspace. Without the constant distractions that jump at college students each day, there was more time and space to think freely about what fulfills people on a deeper level. Why does this matter in a relationship? If you are more in tune with yourself and your own needs, then you might start to advocate for these needs and desires more with people who are important to you. This opens a new level of conversation and of connection between individuals. This effect was compounded by the fact that most people could not go to work, take class or leave their homes on a daily basis. Even when couples
wanted to talk about more surface level occurrences, there was not much to talk about. Deeper, emotional topics prevailed. In a peculiar way, relationships also strengthened during quarantine because people felt emotionally isolated when they were sent home. Relying on existing romantic relationships was very common in a time where reaching out to people for emotional sustenance was difficult. Thus, bonding between couples increased to an even greater degree. In craving that emotional and social connection, people relied increasingly on their existing formative relationships. It is also interesting to consider the idea that being physically distant from someone you love makes you appreciate the time you share together even more. Now that many college couples have reunited, I argue that they will continue the positive habits they formed during quarantine — planning dates further ahead of time, listening well to each other and coming to one another as an emotional touchpoint throughout their days. Particularly in a time when our lives are so difficult to predict, when there are few safe spaces, and when we must be sure to trust those who we see, it only makes sense that quarantine couples have had to grow to love and trust each other all the more throughout their time apart.
cess that includes cross-examination, as well as the use of “clear and convincing evidence” both of which highly favor the accused over the complainants. Not to mention that any witnesses involved in an investigation for sexual misconduct cases must be cross examined by a representative from each party in order for their testimony to be used as viable evidence. Each change and addition is more cruel than the last, making the entire process even more traumatizing and intimidating for survivors than it already was. The regulations are currently facing a lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union on behalf of multiple advocacy groups for survivors of sexual assault and gender equity, because survivors should be believed full stop. So let’s talk about blame. Sometimes placing blame is cathartic, other times it takes the focus away from the crisis at hand, but in instances like these, blame serves to hold those at fault accountable. I could blame a lot of people and institutions for these new regulations: the patriarchy, our society’s inability and lack of desire to protect survivors, our current political climate, the Department of Education as a whole, etc. However, at the
very top of my list is one Mrs. Betsy DeVos, the United States Secretary of Education and quite possibly Satan incarnate. She spearheaded this initiative, spent the year taking meetings with individuals who had been accused of sexual assault, hearing their side, and never meeting with actual survivors - only their representatives. It is truly astounding to me how a single individual with “Education” in her title could cause so much damage, but as we have seen, anything is possible from the administration from Hell. And this is only one change, imagine what she’ll do if she gets four more years. DeVos represents, to me, a perfect example of the philosophical Trolly Problem. If I had a trolly and the track forked in front of me, on the left is DeVos and on the right is a bunch of American students, I’d happily (hypothetically!) swing to the left and flatten her every single time. I mean even if I picked the rightsided track, DeVos will kill those students with her policies before the trolly does. Luckily for me, I do have a trolly: my ballot, come November, and I will be using it to ship DeVos and her boss out of Washington D.C. once and for all.
“ undermine student safety Title IX revisions Campus life
Changes to Title IX regulations expand protections for those accused of misconduct
Catherine Regen Staff Columnist Regecl17@wfu.edu
In my email inbox, when I put “Title IX” into the search bar, among the friendly emails from the Women’s Center there are several Timely Warning: Rape Reported emails, and at the very top the four most recent messages are all regarding the recent changes to the Title IX regulations. The new regulations center around one key change: how colleges and universities respond to sexual misconduct on campuses. The Aug. 14 deadline required that universities that receive federal funding change how they respond to reports of sexual misconduct. Let’s quickly acknowledge the absolute insanity that the Department of Education was requiring the creation and implementation of these new response regulations during a pandemic, when uni-
It is truly astounding to me how a single individual with ‘Education’ in her title could cause so much damage.” versities were already occupied with making campuses safe for students’ returns. The new regulations are discriminatory, instituting an entirely separate standard for sex discrimination diverging from the language that is already in place, and is consistent across discrimination response. The new regulations reduce the responsibility of college administrations to respond to reports of sexual misconduct, requiring that they only act on reports within a collegerelated program. The language problems continue with changing the official definition of sexual harassment from: actions that are so “severe, pervasive, or objectively offensive,” to “severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive.” The new wording now requires all three judgements to be applied, rather than just one, decreasing the likelihood that every instance of sexual harassment will be investigated. But perhaps the most damaging part is that the new regulations have insanely increased protections for those accused of sexual misconduct. There is a newly required live hearing pro-
Opinion | Old Gold & Black
Movies
Horror
“ tropes
As horror films are refreshed by an emerging style, issues of distinctiveness begin to appear
Connor McNeely Staff Columnist mcnecb19@wfu.edu
If you don’t like horror movies, your aversion can likely be traced to the abundance of jump-scares in the blockbuster films that you have seen. Although these tropes will probably never disappear from cinema, there is a bright-side. The genre of horror in film is getting farther away from this one dimensional effect of storytelling and closer to the multi-armed force of ideological liberation. Horror movies have changed in recent years. You may have noticed that they seem quite normal at least in the first quarter or first half of the film. Excepting flicks like Hush — which only play with a fresh premise — those films which have risen to become more than a one time watch have altered the drive of telling a horror story. These movies have become more focused on the construction of mental fear than jumping into immediate action. Families, characters and settings take the brunt of the focus so that the ending
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evolve alongside genre
[Horror] movies have become Though on the outside we believe more focused on the construc- that we are always able to detect right tion of mental fear than jump- from wrong, evil is often treated to be subjective within the scope of the ing into immediate action." climax could be more fulfilling. Directors like Jordan Peele and Ari Aster headline this group of innovative directors with feature films like Get Out and Hereditary, which have become both critically acclaimed and certified cult classics for years to come. But these accolades are simply the result of a fundamental change in the right direction. These new horror movies are sailing in the direction of the thriller. Rather than being completely absorbed in the spectacle of whatever horrific creature or concept that has been cooked up, the swing of popular releases have shifted towards a concentrated analysis of the consequences of the evil shown. Important advances in our understanding of society have been made through some of these films. The most notable of course being 2017s Get Out, which provided a complicated commentary on the invasiveness of a racially dominant consciousness. The movie popularized the term “the sunken place," a fictional brainwashing technique that now stands easily on its own as a cultural reference point for the position of marginalized groups in society. It could be said that the film shocked its audience into the horror that POC experience every day.
film. Although Aster’s Midsommar is sometimes painfully derivative (see The Wicker Man) the journey exhibits thoughtfulness in its visual aspects. The cinematographer Pawel Pogorzelski, a constant collaborator with Ari Aster, virtually achieved the technicolor goal of the picture with Panavision DXL2s and polarizer filters to shape the colors across the length of the film. By switching from 35mm lens to 70mm, the audience was able to experience the transition from the closed and cold United States to the seeming psychological freedom and beautiful scale of the village in Sweden. Though softened yet gleaming colors act as sirens, the faces of the villagers still appear pallid through the brightness. You have to detect the sinister element in their faces. Innovative film techniques like these are what separate the new from the old. Like Alfred Hitchcock, a pioneer of the thriller genre of film, these new storytellers are finding new ways to enter the mind of the audience. While none of these aforementioned directors can reach the magnitude or promise of a career like Hitchcock’s – there is one who shows greater potential than any of the others. Robert
Eggers has shown exorbitant technical capability in both The Witch and The Lighthouse, the latter being shot with vintage lenses and an infamously difficult production set. The narrow scope of the story proved to be impressive as well. In both of his films, Eggers found remarkable success in placing his audience within a world that appears to be remarkably authentic. However, there is an issue that persists with many of these filmmakers. Like Opinion Editor Jack Portman emphasized in last week's issue, the entertainment company A24 has monopolized movies that look “independent” from the larger industry. This is the largest problem facing this new direction of horror; that it can be provided from A24 only. As a consequence, the aesthetic of all these exciting films blend together in the mind of the audience and suddenly there are no more differences or original techniques. Movies like The Lighthouse and Hereditary become stylistically synonymous, though they could not be more different. The solution lies in inspiring other filmmakers and companies to think differently than before. They must be experimental rather than pouring their budget into special effects and cheap visual payoffs. Horror movies should not be senseless but full of thought, because the scariest films are those that force you to think about them long after they’re over.
confidence because I experienced this exact situation firsthand when I asked my three suitemates if they knew who Jo Jorgensen was. Their furrowing brows were answer enough. While scoring 3.3% of the popular vote was unprecedented in 2016, it was still too little to make any real difference in terms of garnering support from a national audience. In order for a third-party candidate to participate in the presidential debates, they must “have support of at least 15 % of the national electorate as determined by five selected national public opinion polling organizations,” as stated by The Commission on Presidential Debates. In addition to this, third-party candidates must pull 5% of the popular vote in order to be considered for public funding in the following race. For example, if Libertarian candidate Gary Johnson received 5% of the public’s vote in 2016, the Libertarian party would have been eligible for public funding in this year’s presidential cycle. But even with the highest national support third party candidates have ever seen, the 5% mark was not met, and the Democratic and Republican parties continued to dominate the field. The sad truth of the matter is that the Libertarian and Green parties were only
as popular during the 2016 election as they were because the Democratic and Republican parties themselves were so disliked. While Dems and the GOP are still not exactly swooned over, polling from FiveThirtyEight shows that Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden is scoring above where 2016 candidate Hillary Clinton was at this time four years ago. To be completely blunt, this makes the argument for voting third party even weaker. There is virtually no chance for a third-party candidate to gather even a fraction of the support they need to make any true difference this election cycle. If the only reason you want to vote third party is to stroke your ego or humblebrag on Twitter about how moral you are, please know that you can write my name in for President and make the same splash. I am not writing this article to bash third-party ideologies. I know that it is healthy to question tradition and act progressively. But I also recognize that in order to secure true cooperation and understanding among this country’s diverse population we need to act, and we need to act together. A vote third party is a vote for Trump. Refusing to vote is a vote for Trump. And looking at the current state of our country and our country’s relation to the rest of the world, that is the last thing we need.
“ Third party voting minimizes electoral impact Politics
Voting for third party candidates undermines voting power in presidential election
Alexandra Karlinchak Staff Columnist karlae18@wfu.edu
With only 54 days until the 2020 election, tensions around the country are running at an all-time high. There is a lot at stake for a large number of people, and not many are exactly thrilled with the choices America’s two-party system has allotted them. This said, I am here as a voter and as a citizen to ask you — scratch that — remind you that voting third party is not a choice that is bound to help you or your fellow citizens. Look, I am a sucker for democracy and personal freedom. Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness? Count me in. How important do I think the right to free speech is? I am furiously typing on my whirring, overheated Dell to post an op-ed in a student-run newspaper. That is as first amendment as it gets.
If the only reason you want to vote third party is to stroke your ego, ... know that you can write my name ..." The United States simultaneously exists as a democracy and a republic and hosts a two-party system that has gotten progressively more partisan as time progresses. (Sorry George Washington!) While the two-party system structure was not so rigid a century ago when there was a healthy mix of conservative democrats and liberal republicans, today’s political climate is much different. According to Encyclopedia Britannica, “The American two-party system was a pseudo-two-party system, because each party provided only a loose framework within which shifting coalitions were formed.” This is not to say that minority parties or aisle reaching are obsolete ideas. The Libertarian Party, for example, pulled 3.3% of the popular vote in the 2016 Presidential election according to Ballotpedia. Today, if I stopped someone on the street and asked them who the Libertarian candidate is for the 2020 Presidential election, my answer would be handed to me in the form of a quizzical look and a head tilt. I say this with
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Old Gold & Black | Opinion
“ obscures trust in social life Self-interest Society Personal Development
Sociopolitical and personal valuations of trust fray our relationships Jack Portman
Staff Columnist portjt17@wfu.edu We need to trust our peers if we wish to live socially; this is so obvious as to not need stating. However, trust is inherently risky — it is a calculated risk but a risk nonetheless. At times it even seems counterintuitive to trust, because to trust is to expect beneficence and cooperation from another being imbued with self-interest and the incentive to act on it. We are all self-interested, and to varying degrees we tend to pursue our self-interests. Oftentimes, this pursuit, however benign, jeopardizes our commitment to certain of the terms of agreement that, either explicitly or tacitly, are implied in our trust-relations. We are aware of this tension, having experienced it ourselves, and thus know it to be true of our peers as well. And so concomitant with our vast and complex matrix of socially necessary trust-relations is an anxiety that our trust will be betrayed. This is a productive anxiety in a way (although it frequently feels cripplingly otherwise) because it compels us to constantly monitor the status of our terms of agreement with
Social Media
Private
We are incentivized to act in self-interest, but doing so seems to contribute to instability." others, and to renegotiate those terms when necessary. That is, we check to ensure that our peers are upholding their ends of the bargain, that they aren’t duplicitously breaking our trust in their own self-interested pursuits. There are a variety of theoretical approaches to understanding this tension. The Prisoner's Dilemma famously outlines the sub-optimality of ostensibly rational self-interest. The Tragedy of the Commons likewise illustrates the degradative effects of self-interested behavior in the context of the finite resources available to us. We are incentivised to act in selfinterest, but doing so seems to contribute to instability. We might then be compelled to take risk-aversive measures to counter the tenuousness of our trust-relations, however this itself can lead to further degradations of trust. The Security Dilemma refers to situations in which measures taken by states to increase national security are perceived by other states as acts of aggression; analogously, steps taken to hedge against a peer’s potential failure to meet expectations of trust could be misunderstood as — and might actually be — a betrayal of their own trust in you. So by establishing trust-relations we make ourselves susceptible to risk, but efforts to counteract that risk and limit potential damages to our
“ media
Private social media posts constitute unique form of sharing Gaby Gonzalez Staff Columnist gonzgc17@wfu.edu
Social media inherently makes our lives more “public.” The varying platforms would seem to preclude a “private” life; anything that is posted on the internet can end up anywhere. Interestingly though, and as we’ve recently seen through the USA vs. Tik Tok security/privacy concern circus, people don’t really care about privacy on the broader scale. The “I don’t have anything to hide” and “I don’t care if China has access to my information” remarks are confidently made in the face of allegations against Tik Tok's ambiguous data practices. Regardless of these attitudes towards the public sphere, it seems as though young adults try to maintain a significant amount of privacy within their own social circles. This desire for interper-
personal interests in cases of broken trust often complicate and worsen our established terms of trust. This is as true of the relations between states within the anarchic global context as of the relations between citizens and even close friends, and this anxietyinducing trade-off is one we make, reaffirm and supervise continuously throughout our lives. Such is why our relationships often seem so profoundly fraught; marriages frequently don’t last, friends grow apart and families have fallings-out. We expect our peers to suppress their most natural impulses — those of self-interest — but know this to be a lofty expectation — one we ourselves often fail to meet — and so police the actions taken by others for early signs of betrayal. This surveillance, of course, only aggravates our anxiety, trapping us in a reflexive carcerality wherein our own activities are constantly surveilled while we keep tabs on our peers. Our satisfaction with our relationships is in large part predicated on our comfort with their terms and conditions, and on the calculus of risk and insurance which we constantly retabulate for potential errors and as new circumstances arise. I often wonder about the extent to which our relationships with our peers are, in this sense, transactional commodities. We all stand to benefit from our interactions with others - socializing allows us to navigate hierarchy, exert power, garner influence and generally gauge the state of things, all of which are perceived as necessary for the pursuit of self-interest. But these interactions
are only beneficial insofar as we feel we are benefiting and can expect to continue to benefit; it is intuitive to cut our losses when we sense losses are imminent, or if we feel we are getting an unfair deal. Much has been written about the alienation of humans from their natural condition, and likewise of the role of capitalism in facilitating this alienation by introducing exploitation as a mediator of human relations. And it could be that people in pre-capitalist societies experienced a greater proclivity for trust and a lesser tendency for obsessive social calculus. I am not sure whether this is true, or even if it is, whether it really meant pre-capitalist humans suffered less and maintained healthier relationships. However, it does seem clear that anxieties surrounding trust are to blame for great amounts of interpersonal strife and geopolitical tension, and that great amounts of political-economic language and theory seems conspicuously at-home in discussions about trust. As politically and economically implicated as it appears to be, trust so deeply permeates our recognitions of and interactions with our peers that, despite its ubiquity as an object of social obsession, we often fail to reflect on the extent to which our unrealistic valuation of trust affects the way we experience life. Considerations of the steps we might take to strengthen our trust-relations while moderating our expectations of others, such as through radical forms of transparency and vulnerability, seem worthwhile and, frankly, therapeutic.
posts perpetuate negligence
Further, the act of posting in and of itself can normalize the repition of these harmful actions... ” sonal privacy is demonstrated through the increased prevalence of “private Snapchat Stories.” I understand the appeal of private stories in some ways; many of us created Snapchat accounts what seems like ages ago, resulting in many “friends” that we either no longer keep in touch with or were never very friendly with to begin with. So, you may be inclined to not want to post certain content on your “main” story, whether it be out of worry of what your Aunt might think, or because you feel it may be awkward to divulge certain, more personal information to a larger group. I honestly think private stories are productive in this regard - why bombard people you don’t really know with content they are not interested in? Beyond the above-mentioned justifications for private story usage, though, are unfavorable intentions for use of private stories. That is, private stories that operate with the intent of excluding individuals from a particular group or private stories made to post what may be controversial or
inappropriate content. These often pop up among friend groups - one friend will create a “private story” and exclude a particular member from viewing it - yet that person hears about the posts from others. I have experienced women somewhat flaunting their viewership status of certain individuals’ private stories, almost as though it is a form of social capital. Moreover, private stories can serve as a place to post content that would be frowned upon by others. It also can house “rebellious” content - posts of people doing things they should not be doing but are choosing to do anyway. By posting on a private story certain “rebellious” or inappropriate content, it is almost an admittance of wrongdoing. Because if whatever is being displayed in the post weren’t so wrong, then it should be fine to post on a main story. A prime example of this can be seen now in the aftermath of the COVID-19 world we are living in. With students having returned to campus with heightened restrictions on parties and large gatherings of any kind, the presence of private stories has increased. Students should not be gathering, and they know they shouldn’t, so they do not post their large gatherings for many others to
see. Instead, they tuck them away into their private stories, often inciting jealousy or anger in others. The “rebellious” posts can foster a divisive culture. If you are to call-out someone for acting inappropriately during a pandemic and then posting about it on their private story, you risk marring the friendship (or worse - being removed from the story). Further, the act of posting in and of itself can normalize the repetition of these harmful actions (attending large gatherings and posting about them in private). If others see their peers gathering but not broadcasting it to the masses, they may feel like it is alright for them to do the same. I’m worried about the types of behaviors and actions that can thrive through private stories. If you are able, for the most part, to shield yourself from judgment from many people, then you may not question your actions. That is, if only your closest friends — who are probably participating in the same things as you — are your private story viewers, then they will probably not check your behavior since they are engaging in it as well. We should be wary not only of what is going on in private stories but the implication of private stories themselves.
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Online at: www.wfuogb.com Twitter: @sports_ogb Editors: Ben Conroy, conrbd19@wfu.edu Will Zimmerman, zimmwj19@wfu.edu
OLD GOLD & BLACK
Previewing Wake Forest vs. Clemson The Deacs will host the topranked Clemson Tigers this Saturday night BY BEN CONROY Sports Editor conrbd19@wfu.edu Wake Forest’s 2020-2021 regular season football campaign is set to begin with a bang as the Deacs will take on national powerhouse and ACC foe No. 1 Clemson this Saturday evening. The game is slated for a 7:30 p.m. start and will certainly draw plenty of national attention; College GameDay will air live for the first time from Wake Forest all day Saturday, a significant milestone in Wake Forest football history. It’s a travesty in its own right that there will be no fans permitted to attend Saturday’s contest; certainly, we’d all be grateful for the opportunity to witness our Deacs take the field live and in-person. Nevertheless, the eyes of the college football world will be trained firmly upon Truist Stadium as the Deacs look to ruffle some feathers in the ACC early on with a monumental upset on friendly terrain. Wake Forest will undoubtedly be out for blood Saturday with the atrocity that was last year’s Clemson game still dancing in their heads. The game in question was an unfortunate blemish on an otherwise
solid season for Wake Forest; the Deacs lost 52-3 in Death Valley, failing to record a single touchdown in all 60 minutes of play. No matter the circumstances, defeating the reigning national champs will prove a monumental challenge. The topranked Tigers boast a star-studded roster from top-to-bottom (as usual), a dominant squad led by Heisman frontrunner and returning quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Here’s a preview of the players to watch when the Deacs take the turf Saturday night: Trevor Lawrence- QB, Clemson Without a doubt, Lawrence is the most important cog in the powerful machine that is the Clemson offense. He’s the key to their success, as much of Clemson’s production on that side of the ball falls squarely on his shoulders. His dual-threat capabilities under center have continuously befuddled defenses throughout his collegiate career to this point; he found the end zone 36 times through the air and nine times on the ground last season alone. Look for Lawrence to be aggressive early, using both his legs and his arm in an attempt to dismantle the Wake Forest defense. Travis Etienne- RB, Clemson The Clemson offense might be compared to a fully loaded arsenal, and Travis
Etienne is one of the most potent weapons of them all. Looking to pick up where he left off after a roaring 2019-2020 season (1,614 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns), Etienne will be looking to make the most of his final collegiate season before he moves onto bigger and better things in the NFL. The combination of Lawrence and Etienne in the Clemson backfield puts defenses between a rock and a hard place; contain Lawrence, and Etienne will step up to the plate, acting as a threat on the ground and as a receiver out of the backfield. Sam Hartman- QB, Wake Forest The name “Sam Hartman” has almost certainly come up in any recent conversation regarding the future of Wake Forest football. In the wake of Jamie Newman’s departure from the university, a rather imposing set of shoes were left to be filled, and redshirt-senior Sam Hartman has been chosen to fill them. Hartman saw limited action last year as Jamie Newman’s backup, totaling 830 yards and four passing touchdowns on the year. Hartman played in just four games last season, and he has his work cut out for him in his first start of the new season. He’ll inevitably play a crucial role in the outcome of the game for Wake Forest; if he can step up to the plate and shine un-
der the lights, the Deacs might just have a fighting chance. Carlos Basham Jr.- DE, Wake Forest It’s no secret that a solid defensive performance will be imperative for the Deacs on Saturday. Without finding a way to contain the Clemson offense, the game could very easily get out of hand. If there ever was a man capable of spearheading this imposing job, it’s almost certainly redshirt-senior Carlos 'Boogie' Basham Jr. Basham Jr. racked up 26 tackles and 11 sacks last season; the rest of the defense will look to him to provide steady production against the Clemson offensive line Saturday night.
Photo credit courtesy of GoDeacs.com
You can bet 'Boogie' Basham will be ready to go, come Saturday.
Celtics handle Raptors, Heat looks dominant The NBA playoffs have undoubtedly lived up the hype, providing unreal drama BY HASSAN LADIWALA Staff Writer ladiha17@wfu.edu
As of Monday, Sept. 7, the Milwaukee Bucks find themselves in a heap of trouble down 3-1 to the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. After staring down the barrel of a humiliating 4-0 sweep, the Bucks scrapped their way to an enthralling 118-115 overtime win on Sunday. What’s even more impressive is that they did it without the reigning league MVP and newly anointed Defensive Player of the Year, Giannis Antetokounmpo, who left the game with an ankle injury at the start of the second quarter. With Giannis sidelined, All-Star forward Kris Middleton stepped up, scoring 36 points — including the dagger over Tyler Herro which put the Bucks up by four with six ticks left in OT — while grabbing eight rebounds and eight assists in a Herculean effort to save Milwaukee’s season. While the Bucks performed admirably in game four, I believe they’ll need to summon something special to compete
in game five and beyond. The Heat have looked like the better team all series, being able to capitalize on Antetokounmpo’s struggles as a perimeter shooter. Through three games the Bucks were outscored by 34 points with Giannis on the court, the lowest +/- number on the team. By turning Milwaukee’s biggest asset into a weakness, the Heat clearly have the Bucks on the run, scrambling for answers. On Monday night, the Boston Celtics dismantled the Toronto Raptors en route to a 111-89 victory which saw Nick Nurse withdraw his starters with six minutes to go in the fourth quarter. Now many Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images/TNS might be predicting an easy Celtics win on Wednesday night but let me take a min- Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo had to be helped ute to remind you all of who this Raptors off the court after suffering an ankle injury Monday night. team is. In the regular season based on defensive net rating, the Raptors allowed the season record in the league. Let’s not for- without-a-fight type point guard, Fred second fewest points per 100 possessions. get, this was a team that most (including VanVleet played himself into a big-time Furthermore, against teams with a top-10 me) counted out after Kawhi Leonard contract offer this summer, OG Anunoby point differential, they had allowed the left for Los Angeles this summer. In fact, took another step and Head Coach Nick fewest points per 100 possessions (we all the ESPN “experts” panel only predicted Nurse won the award for the NBA's Coach know the phrase “defense wins champi- them to finish sixth in the Eastern Confer- of the Year. They might not have been onships”). From Jan. 13 to Feb. 11 the ence before the season started. But despite your traditional title defenders, but they Raptors went on a franchise-record 15 all the chatter, Pascal Siakam took another certainly stepped up to the challenge this game winning streak. During that stretch huge step towards becoming a for-real season. I don’t know if Wednesday night they averaged 121.2 points per game and NBA superstar, Kyle Lowry solidified his will be the last time we see the 2019/2020 shot over 50% from the field. This helped standing in the league as a Chris Paul- Raptors, but they certainly won’t go down them finish with the second best regular esque-this-guy-won’t-let-your-team-lose- without a fight.
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Old Gold & Black | Sports
Nets pick Steve Nash as new head coach Nets take a gamble, hiring a former NBA star with no head coaching experience BY CHRISTINA DENOVIO Contributing Writer denoca20@wfu.edu
Steve Nash, former professional basketball player and most recently former player development coach for the Golden State Warriors, was recently hired as the Brooklyn Nets head coach. Nash is widely viewed as one the greatest point guards ever to play in the NBA. During his 18 seasons in the league, Nash was an eight-time All-Star and a seven-time All-NBA selection. Additionally, while playing for the Phoenix Suns, he was a two-time MVP. In 2018, Nash was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame. Nash retired from the NBA in 2015 after his final season with the Los Angeles Lakers, though he wasn’t gone from the game for long. Shortly thereafter, he began working for the Warriors alongside head coach Steve Kerr. Warriors general manager Bob Myers was impressed with what Nash brought
to the table. “There's so much value in the little things, the small details that [Nash] can share to guys at that level,” he said, per NBCSports.com. Myers also commended Nash’s ability to foster a growth mindset among those players who do not feel they need to improve. With the hiring of Nash, who will begin his first ever stint as a head coach, the Nets hope to find more success than they did this past season. After finishing seventh in the Eastern Conference standings, Brooklyn played the Raptors in the playoffs and were promptly swept. The Nets team that takes the floor in 2021 will look vastly different from that of the past season as Kevin Durant returns to the court for the first time after rupturing his Achilles tendon in the 2019 NBA Finals when he was a member of the Warriors. Kyrie Irving, who played only 20 games in 2019 — his first season in Brooklyn — before suffering an injury of his own, will make the Nets a formidable contender in the East. However, not all agree that Nash is the correct choice to lead these two future hall of farmers and the rest of the Nets squad. ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith called the hiring a case of “white privi-
lege,” citing a number of Black candidates, including former interim coach Jacque Vaughn, who were passed over in the hiring process despite having more experience than Nash. Basketball legend Charles Barkley was quick to call out Smith for his attack. “I was very disappointed in some of the guys on television today talking about white privilege. Very disappointed.” said Barkley, per NYPost.com Barkley continued, “Do we need more Black coaches in the NBA? Yes. Do we need more Black coaches in college football? Yes. Do we need more Black coaches in pro football? Yes. [But] Steve Nash is a great player and a good dude.” Despite Barkley’s criticism of Smith, the analyst stood by his comments, saying “I have a message to those who feel that I was wrong, that I need to apologize, that I don’t know what I’m talking about, etc., etc. I don’t give a damn what y’all feel. Y’all can all kick rocks. I don’t give a damn. I’m not budging from my position one inch.” Smith argued that a Black coach with the same experience as Nash would likely not be appointed to a team with a roster abound with talent including Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving.
There is no way of knowing how the 2021 season will unfold, but the Brooklyn Nets are certainly shaking things up with Nash’s hiring. The Nets will find out whether their choice was the right one when games start back up in February of 2021.
Ron Jenkins/Fort Worth Star-Telegram/TNS
Lack of experience isn't a concern for the Nets, who hired Nash on Sep. 3.
Liverpool looks to continue recent dominance After claiming the Premiere League title in 2020, Liverpool looks to 2021 BY CHARLES HORN Staff Writer horncs18@wfu.edu
After 30 years of close calls, painful decline and missed opportunities since their last first-division title, Liverpool won the Premier League in 2020. It was the first time the club has done so since the league was founded, replacing the first-division, in 1992. Following their dominant 18-point margin of victory last season, Liverpool will begin this campaign featuring one of the world’s best managers in Jürgen Klopp, a roster filled to the brim with world-class talent and one of the most lucrative television deals in professional sports. However, because of the now-familiar influx of some of the world’s best players into teams across the Premier League, which has generated tremendous excitement across England, Liverpool’s quest to defend their title will be no easy task. Whether or not Liverpool needs to make a splash during this offseason is a point of contention among fans as the club unquestionably rolls over a strong squad from last year. Despite this, Liverpool supporters have been vocal in their belief that some reinforcements are necessary if their club hopes to repeat last years’ success. While rumors have floated over the potential signing
of Spanish midfielder Thiago Alcântara from Bayern Munich, Liverpool’s only acquisition thus far has been that of Greek left-back Kostas Tsimikas. Tsimikas’ role will be limited, as he is likely to backup the more well-versed Andrew Robertson. Undoubtedly the biggest winners of the transfer window thus far have been Chelsea, who spent big following the expiration of their transfer ban. Chelsea has secured the services of two Germans: 24-year-old Timo Werner and 21-yearold Kai Havertz. Moroccan international Hakim Ziyech, Brazilian veteran defender Thiago Silva and England and Leicester defender Ben Chilwell have also joined the ever-formidable club. Chelsea’s signings provide much needed star power and veteran experience to bolster Frank Lampard’s young and inexperienced squad. The serious question mark regarding the club-record signing and world’s most expensive goalkeeper, Kepa Arrizabalaga, remains. Kepa endured a torrid campaign last season, as he was replaced on numerous occasions by his 38-year-old backup, Willy Caballero. Manchester City and Pep Guardiola have characteristically flexed their Emirati war chest in a bid to return to the top of the Premier League following the departure of David Silva who left on a free-transfer to Real Sociedad. City acquired Nathan Ake from the recently relegated Bournemouth to bolster their fragile defense. The young Spaniard who spent last season with Valencia, Ferran
Torres, is another strong addition to this already-dominant attacking force led by world-great Kevin De Bruyne. Although the rumored blockbuster arrival of Jaden Sancho from Borussia Dortmund has failed to materialize (as of yet), Manchester United have signed Donny Van de Beek from Ajax to add to an already star-studded midfield. However, defensive frailties, as well as the ongoing legal saga related to captain Harry Maguire — who ran afoul of Greek authorities while on vacation in Mykonos — threaten to disrupt United’s progress. Eager to move on from last season’s struggles are those at Tottenham. Manager José Mourinho begins his first full season with the club following last year's disastrous campaign which saw the departure of longtime manager, Mauricio Pochettino. Joining the club is Wolves fullback Matt Doherty and Danish international midfielder Pierre-Emile Højbjerg. Højbjerg, Mourinho hopes, will help to shore up a defense that will greatly miss the talismanic Belgian, Jan Vertonghen. Spurs’s North London Rivals, Arsenal, have also bolstered their defense with the signing of Brazilian center-back, Gabriel Paulista, from Lille, along with William Sadiba, who joins the Gunners after a year on loan with Saint-Éttiene. And while the winger, Willian Borges da Silva, who joined on a free transfer from rival Chelsea should answer some questions on offense, if Arsenal hope to climb the table this season they must
sign star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to a new deal. Entering the Premier League are three familiar clubs. In the case of Leeds United, the familiarity is more of historic relevance than recent success. Managed by Marcelo Bielsa, architect of the high-press and aptly nicknamed “El Loco” style-of-play, Leeds are returning to the Premier League for the first time since being relegated in 2004. During the summer, Leeds spent big, securing the services of Spanish international, Rodrigo Moreno Machado, for a club record fee upwards of $34 million. The signing took place alongside a variety of other upgrades during the offseason, intended to make Leeds’s promotion last. Leeds also chose to re-sign Jack Harrison for a third successive loan spell from Manchester City, meaning the former Wake Forest player, who scored eight goals and had 11 assists in his lone All American season with the Demon Deacons, will finally get a chance to ply his trade in the Premier League. Joining Leeds as newly promoted sides are Fulham and West Bromwich Albion, who both spent much of the 2010s in the Premier League before suffering relegation in 2019 and 2018 respectively. With Fulham and Arsenal opening this season this Saturday at 7:30 a.m., new talent, established stars and challengers to Liverpool’s throne are sure to make this season one to remember for players and fans alike.
Sports | Old Gold & Black
Thursday, September 10, 2020 | Page 13
Deacon Spotlight: Isaiah Mucius BY ESSEX THAYER Contributing Writer thayse20@wfu.edu
ET: Are there any further steps or actions the program is looking to take regarding BLM in the coming weeks and months?
Isaiah Mucius is a junior at Wake Forest majoring in sociology and a member of the men’s basketball team. He is one of the highest touted returners on newly-hired Head Coach Steve Forbes’ squad — last year he started in 22 games and appeared in 30. During this sophomore campaign, Mucius averaged 7.3 points and 4.7 rebounds. He hails from East Patchogue, N.Y., and played high school basketball at the well known Brewster Academy in Wolfeboro, N.H. Isaiah was honored as the 2018 USA Today New Hampshire Basketball Player of the Year and was a consensus 4-star recruit (no. 72 in Class of 2018) when he committed to Wake Forest. Recently, he sat down with sports writer Essex Thayer to discuss his team’s participation in a local Black Lives Matter rally, his role as an activist and how the team is preparing for a season unlike any other.
IM: As a team, we are continuing to educate ourselves and have those tough conversations that will help break the uncomfortable barrier. We are planning on trying to watch some films like 12 Years A Slave or Roots to better understand how Black people have been oppressed for hundreds and hundreds of years.
Essex Thayer: You were quoted multiple times in an article published by WFMY News in late August regarding the activism and protests that the basketball program took part in following the killing of Jacob Blake. What did this experience downtown mean to the program, and to you, personally? Isaiah Mucius: This experience meant so much to myself and the program. As a young man of color, having my team there and seeing them stand with me and fight against the social injustices occurring around the country made me happy and proud. ET: Is there a specific pro player or team that’s inspired the program in the fight for equality? IM: I think the NBA as a whole has inspired our team. Having Black men on our staff and our team, we are inspired to fight for each other.
ET: What has the team’s preparation been like for this upcoming season, and how much has COVID-19 played a factor? IM: Obviously, COVID-19 has made things a lot tougher than they usually would’ve been. But, we have been great as a team and have yet to have a positive case, knock on wood, so we have been able to get the entire team on the floor during the past couple of weeks. ET: Can you speak to the support that the Athletic Department has provided to the basketball team during the past few months? IM: The Athletic Department has done such a great job keeping us safe while we are going through this season and school year. I have honestly been really happy and have felt safe while I have been on campus, so they have done a great job. ET: Wake Forest was the only Power 5 team in college basketball to hire a new head coach during the pandemic. What has the transition been like with Coach Forbes and a “reborn” program in such a trying time? IM: It was a challenge at first because the first time we were able to meet the coaching staff in person was in July, when usually we would be on campus [as early as] late May. But, Coach Forbes did a great job building relationships with all of us, so once we did meet
in person, it felt like I had already known him a long time. Since we have gotten here, [Coach Forbes] has been great and continues to build relationships with each one of his players. ET: Is there a different style of coaching and preparation that you have experienced with Coach Forbes as opposed to that of your first two years within the program? IM: There is definitely a different coaching style than that of my first two years here. [Coach Forbes] likes to be aggressive on both ends of the floor and turn defense into offense. There is a lot of passing, cutting and learning to be an unselfish player. ET: For a time in the spring, there were concerns that you might follow in the path of other former Deacs and transfer to another school. I think I speak for a lot of Wake when I say that we’re glad you’re still here. What kept you here in Winston-Salem? IM: I am 100% glad with my decision to stay. I think what kept me in Winston was a lot of unfinished business that I didn’t want to leave undone. I didn’t want to leave this place with a bad taste in my mouth, and once I found out Coach Forbes got the job, I did my research and spoke to him. From then on, I knew that he would be able to take this program to where we want to be. ET: What are your expectations for this upcoming season, both personally and as a team? IM: For our team, I have super high expectations. I want to win our conference and make it to the tournament. With the guys we have, I know we have the ability to accomplish that. Personally, I want to take a big step, not only as a player, but also as a leader. With this being my third year here, I need to be someone the guys can look up to in any situation.
Photo courtesy of Wake Forest Athletic Communications
Page 14 | Thursday, September 10, 2020
Old Gold & Black | Sports
Wake Forest club tennis squad ready for action With appropriate safety measures in place, club tennis can’t wait to hit the court BY AINE PIERRE Staff Writer pierav20@wfu.edu COVID-19 has not been kind to club sports. After forcing a mid-season shutdown last spring, virus concerns led to the university banning organized travel to other campuses for club sports (the school’s Division I teams are still permitted to travel). Certain club sports, like club softball, decided not to play in the fall semester and to wait out the virus. Others, however, have decided to play on in different ways. Over the next few weeks, the Old Gold & Black will be previewing the teams that have decided to play. From baseline to baseline, a tennis court is 78 feet long, 13 times the measurement recommended for social distancing and nearly eight times the measurement the university encourages students to keep while playing intense sports. For seniors and club tennis captains Caitlyn Margol, Chris Williams and Sam Bott, this distance (and their team’s love of tennis) made the decision to play during COVID-19 a possible one, if not an easy one.
“We all really want to play. It’s a great outlet for everyone to exercise and make new friends, so it really wasn’t a question of whether we would play or not, but how we would play to meet these new guidelines,” Margol said. The socially-distanced nature of tennis also made it easier to get approval from the administration to play, as some other clubs needed to write up a social-distancing plan to get approval. “We are just incredibly fortunate that we were able to come up with some guidelines but in theory nothing extensive, since [tennis is] a sociallydistanced sport,” Margol said. The action on the courts will look a bit different than it did last spring before the outbreak. Players will be required to wear masks at all times and to comply with various sanitation requirements, according to Margol. “There is an intramural representative that sits outside the gate checking everyone in through the Corq app, and then everyone sanitizes their hands before coming inside to the courts,” Margol said. “Everyone has a mask on for the entire practice, even while playing, and then we have everyone sanitize their hands upon leaving and after the practice we pass around wipes and wipe down all the balls that were touched during the practice.” Hi-fives are also not allowed between doubles partners to limit contact.
Despite not being able to play intersquad matches, the team hopes to keep up its competitive nature, even if the matches are just against other team members. “We’re hoping to do some [intra] squad competition, even during tryouts we had some people play, not anything super formal with actual scoring, but play out a couple games, maybe play to like six games or something ... to try to create that atmosphere of competition,” said Margol. Club Tennis will still hold practices Monday through Thursday and the court will still be free on weekends for members to hit (with a reservation), but the team will try and spread out their members among practices, both for scheduling and virus avoidance purposes. “We do have to take into consideration how many people come to practice,” Margol said. “The reason we have four days of practices is to try and accommodate everyone’s schedule ... and we want everyone to have the opportunity to come.” Ultimately, the club is still looking to the future. The main focus is the selection and integration of new members to the team, with tryouts having been held earlier this week. After new members have been recruited, though, the team is exploring the possibility of virtual events for team building and socializing. The
team also looks forward to the potential of traveling in the spring, per Margol.
Elizabeth Maline Old Gold & Black
Club tennis players will gladly wear maks if it means they can play in 2020.
Mets legend Tom Seaver passes away at age 75 The sporting world grieves the loss of Tom Seaver, Hall-ofFamer and Mets legend BY CHRISTA DUTTON Contributing Writer duttcd20@wfu.edu On Thursday, Sept. 3, the Mets took the field for their game against the Yankees. Each of the Met’s players ran out of the dugout, their right knees all symbolically dirtied with mud. This was the way that the Mets players of today paid tribute to a Mets legend that came before them. The legend they were remembering was Tom Seaver, who died on Monday, Aug. 31, due to complications from Lewy body dementia and COVID-19. The dirtied right knee was the perfect tribute to Seaver because his knee always had mud on it while he pitched. It was the signature of the “drop and drive” pitching style that he popularized. As he powerfully followed through on a pitch, pushing off his right leg, his right knee would scrape the mound, leaving a smudge of dirt on his pants. Seaver was a Mets icon and one of the greatest to ever play the game. Seaver represented the Mets so well that his name eventually became synonymous to the Mets franchise as he earned the nicknames “The Franchise,” and “Tom Terrific.” Seaver acquired many accolades over his highly
successful career. He was the 1967 National League Rookie of the Year, a three time Cy Young Award winner, 12-time All-Star, a 1969 World Series champion and Baseball Hall of Fame inductee. He dominated his position as pitcher and he influenced the technique of many players who came after him. His pitching style was smooth, mechanic, consistent and strong. He was a player who played thoughtfully and strategically, analyzing his batter and stressing the details. His spot is well-deserved in the Hall of Fame, and his name deserves to be remembered. Perhaps Seaver’s most memorable achievement was the way he led the ‘69 Mets to a World Series title. The Mets went from a struggling ragtag team to a solid ball club full of young potential. They capitalized on that talent and pulled out a World Series championship win. That season was an underdog success story that felt straight out of a feel good movie. People joke that everyone in America became a Mets fan that year just to feel some excitement for themselves. This team reminded a very worn and fatigued America that anything can happen. That year’s team was coined the “Miracle Mets.” That name is a bit deceiving, though, because a World Series title is not achieved by a miracle, it is achieved by hard work, unity, and grit — all attributes that Seaver brought to this team. His legacy, however, reaches far beyond his baseball talent. Not only was Seaver a phenomenal athlete, he was
Jim McIsaac/Getty Images/TNS
Tom Seaver led a decorated MLB career which included a legendary 1969 World Series victory with the Miracle Mets. also a stand-up guy. He was a hero that Little Leaguers wanted to be like when they grew up. He was a gentleman and a respected family man. His teammates and coaches valued him as a friend as much as they did a player. The Mets fan base and baseball community grieve one of the greatest to ever play the game. It is often said, “athletes die
twice — once when they take their last breath and once when they hang it up.” Seaver, however, we grieve thrice. Once when he hung up his cleats, and again when he went away from the public eye because of his struggles with dementia. And now we grieve him yet again, this time for the final time as he passes on from this life.
Thursday, September 10, 2020 | Page 15
Old Gold & Black | Sports
NHL ramps up inclusion efforts By any measure, the past summer has been unusually busy for the NHL BY WILL ZIMMERMAN Sports Editor zimmwj19@wfu.edu
Before the first puck was dropped in Edmonton, the location chosen to host the Western Conference bubble, Minnesota Wild defensemen, Matt Dumba, addressed the crowd-less arena: “I know first-hand as a minority playing the great game of hockey the unexplainable and difficult challenges that come with it.” He said. “Black lives matter. Breonna Taylor’s life matters. Hockey is a great game, but it could be a whole lot greater, and it starts with all of us.” Dumba, after finishing his speech, became the first NHL player to take a knee during the national anthem. The powerful address came on Aug. 1 — the day the sport returned after a 142-day, Coronavirus-induced hiatus. Since, hockey fans have been inundated with virtually non-stop, thrilling, playoff-caliber games; yet, it has been what has taken place beyond the ice that will have the most deep-rooted effects on the NHL and hockey at large for decades to come. It was almost eight months ago that the former NHL player, Akim Aliu, made his accusations against former coach, Bill Peters, public. In a disturbing account published in The Players Tribune, Aliu recounted an instance from over a decade ago in which Peters “dropped the ‘N-bomb’ several times in the dressing room [during Aliu’s] rookie year because he
didn’t like [Aliu’s] choice of music.” When Aliu called out his coach for using the slur, he was demoted to a lower league. Peters, head coach of the Calgary Flames at the time the report was released, has since resigned. Aliu, who was born in Nigeria, brought the topic of racism to the foreground in what has, historically, been a predominantly white sport (as of January, only 43 of the over 700 players in the NHL are of color). And, whether he intended it to or not, Aliu’s resolute decision to bring his truth to light has emboldened other members of the hockey community across the globe to share their own accounts of discrimination and intolerance. The NHL listened to Aliu and his compatriots, and in June, announced the launching of the Hockey Diversity and Alliance Program (HDA), a grass-roots initiative which intends “to eradicate racism and intolerance in hockey” (per a statement released by the HDA). Aliu and Dumba are among the seven current and former players who will lead the commission. The top priorities of the HDA are to “promote diversity through community outreach and make the game more affordable and accessible while advocating for acceptance and equality.” While the HDA will operate independently from the NHL, Kim Davis, senior vice president of social impact and legislative affairs of the NHL, stated the league intends to work in alliance with the organization to “advance the role of our sport in society” per NHL.com. The NHL has announced several internal initiatives designed to combat racism and promote tolerance around
the league. Among them are a mandatory inclusion and diversity training program for all players and team and league officials, as well as the creation of Player-Inclusion, Fan-Inclusion and Youth-Inclusion committees. In the aftermath of Jacob Blake’s shooting in late August, the HDA called on the NHL to postpone playoff games, as had happened in the NBA and MLB. The players union and league agreed, and two days of games were postponed, giving players such as Nazem Kadri of the Colorado Avalanche the opportunity and platform to address the importance of the moment. “A collaborate effort [is necessary] to create sustainable change. It’s gonna have to be the whole league, it’s gonna have to be collectively. Not just one or two guys. Strength in the numbers is key.” he said, per The Canadian Press.
The NHL validated their commitment towards change when they took part in a joint statement in mid-August alongside the NBA, MLB and NFL, announcing that they would make arenas available as ‘election super centers’ this year. Venues included, such as NYC’s Madison Square Garden, have ample space, which will allow for socially-distanced voting and alleviate stress on smaller, less well-equipped voting centers. As is the case for the country as a whole, creating sustainable change within hockey culture will take time. With strong voices backed by the support of the league, the HDA and the NHL hope that by tackling hate and promoting equality and inclusion at every level of the game, such change is not too far off.
Jeff Vinnick/Getty Images
Defensemen, Matt Dumba, takes a knee during the national anthem, becoming the first NHL player to do so.
Messi chooses to stay at home with Barcelona After a stunning announcement last week, Messi has changed his tune BY CHARLES HORN Staff Writer horncs18@wfu.edu Just days after shocking the world with his public declaration announcing his intention to depart from Barcelona after 20-years, Lionel Messi has reported that he will be staying with the only club he’s ever known. According to Messi, the decision is in large part due to the clubs failure in granting him his much-desired free transfer. The usually quiet in public, loud on the pitch player uncharacteristically lashed out at the club, criticizing multiple levels of the organization and calling for broad changes In an explosive interview with Goal, Messi revealed both his motivations for remaining in the Catalan capital and also the deep fractures between the club and its adopted son. Contrary to speculation that the disastrous 8-2 defeat to Bayern Munich had influenced
his decision, Messi instead described a decision he had dwelled on for some time, and had then informed the club of, repeatedly, over the course of a year. Messi singled out the President of Barcelona, Josep Maria Bartomeu, for supposedly reneging on his promise to grant Messi his wish to leave. The statement added further fuel to the fire of the vote of no confidence campaign supported by a significant number of Barcelona’s 154,000 members, commonly referred to as socios. These socios make up the entirety of Barcelona’s ownership, and have recently grown disillusioned with Bartomeu and his vision for the club. Bartomeu insisted that the €700 million release clause be paid, which would effectively ensure that Messi would be unable to leave Barca, despite his supposed earlier promises that he would allow Messi to depart, for no fee, as a free agent. A club entirely owned by its fans, Barcelona remains at the mercy of their wishes. If the choice is between Bartomeu or Messi, the socios have made their choice clear. Since Neymar departed for a world record fee to Paris Saint Germain in 2017, Barcelona have increasingly re-
lied on heroic performances by Messi as Luis Suarez deteriorated with age. While Barcelona have remained competitive in La Liga, they have suffered humiliating exits during their past three Champions League seasons. These failures have left Messi feeling disillusioned. “You can win or lose in it, because it is very difficult, but you have to compete. At least compete in it and let us not fall apart in Rome, Liverpool, Lisbon.” he said. Ultimately, Messi chose not to go to legal war, “it never crossed my mind to take Barca to court.” Partly due to his love for the club, which Messi has stated maintains, but also out of love for his family: Messi cites his son Mateo as a key factor towards remaining in Barcelona. Reflecting on his own hardships when he moved from Argentina to Barcelona at just 13, Messi said, “I didn’t want him to know anything about being forced to leave, to have to live in a new school, or make new friends. He cried to me and said, ‘let’s not go.’” New manager Ronald Koeman, whose arrival follows the sacking of Quique Setién after the Bayern defeat, is the third Barca manager to be hired in the past nine-months. Messi hopes
Koerman’s new ideas and systems will reinvigorate a Barca team yearning for direction. Things better change quickly. With his contract expiring in 2021, this season will likely be the last dance for Barca’s most famous dancer.
LLUIS GENE/Getty Images/TNS
Messi will remain with Barca for his 17th straight season.
LIFE
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CHADWICK BOSEMAN LEAVES A LEGACY OLD GOLD & BLACK
On Aug. 28, it was announced that actor Chadwick Boseman had passed away from colon cancer. In the wake of his passing, his fans reflect on his legacy.
BY ERIC OMOROGIEVA Staff Writer omorei17@wfu.edu
In the past seven years, there has been few actors to not only be so consistent as a standout star, but also a constant presence within so many groups in the entertainment business, primarily the Afro-American community and comic book movie world. The late Chadwick Boseman, who passed suddenly on Aug. 28 after a four-year battle with stage three and four colon cancer, represented a variety of symbols to different people all around the world. His death is a big loss, but more importantly, his story and the way he carried himself and persevered during hard times further solidifies how much of an inspirational figure he already was. Boseman’s big break arrived loudly. In 2013, he starred as the baseball legend Jackie Robinson in 42, a retelling of Robinson’s path to breaking the color barrier in American’s favorite pastime. This role not only brought him to major success but was the start of a historic run of playing some of Photo courtesy of imdb.com the greatest Afro-American historical and fictional Boseman is perhaps most well known for his role as a superhero in Marvel's Black Pancharacters. Seeing Black figures come back to life ther. However, his film credits also include playing Jackie Robinson and Thurgood Marshall. on the big screen is an opportunity that many in the Afro-American community take very seriously, historical figures that quickly was odd at the time, Wakanda. Boseman’s take differs from this typical so it was no surprise that my own family didn’t but to no surprise Boseman again knocked out portrayal because it’s a testament to his personalhesitate to buy tickets for this movie on the first the performance. It seemed like he could be any- ity and what he had already represented to milweekend. From my own lens, I recall the excite- body. lions in the world. From the moment Boseman ment of going with my family to see 42, comWhat made Boseman so special was his ability first made his appearance as the Black Panther, pletely unaware of Boseman’s name. However, the to fully become the role he was casted for. When again he blended into the character while making face, the composure and the pure acting ability he played Jackie Robinson for two hours, he was it his own. This T’Challa was warm, heartfelt and and talent carried over to his next big film. For Get Robinson. When he played James Brown, he again provided a symbol of hope, not only as the newly on Up, the 2014 biopic of the Godfather of Soul immersed himself in the character and setting. It crowned King to his people, but to viewers who James Brown, my family and I had the same feel- never seemed like there was a “classic” Boseman swarmed in packs to see the films. Black Panther ing as we had for 42. As I watched trailers, I began acting style or performance, but instead a man was a worldwide cultural event unlike anything to notice, “Is this the same guy that played Jackie who would become the person and add a dash of seen before for a hero’s solo film. The movie atRobinson?” The idea of someone playing multiple his magic to it. Nothing about the performance tracted comic book movie fans looking to see yet felt like Boseman, but they all provided the same another great addition to the Marvel Cinematic feeling of warmth and attractiveness. He did the Universe (MCU), movie watchers looking for same thing again as a young Thurgood Marshall the next big attractive film, and many of African in Marshall. He didn’t even necessarily have to descent around the world, kids and adults alike, look exactly like the legendary Supreme Court who were able to watch someone who looked like Justice, but because Boseman is so convincing, it them play the titular character in a big-budget works each time. He can seamlessly blend in to superhero film. Boseman avoided the Holly“being” other people and still make his presence wood stereotype of a struggling black man from known. This point became even more obvious the hood (done over and over again), but instead when he received the casting of his career. played a wealthy King who stands for justice and Boseman’s casting as T’Challa in Black Panther provides hope, vanquishing his enemies. didn’t come to a surprise due to his wealth of perBoseman’s loss is a great one because of what he formances as high-level figures. Upon hearing his represented. He was a versatile actor who played casting, however, it made me wonder at the time some of the most significant Black figures of why Boseman continues to be selected for these the past 75 years and gave us his heart on each major figures over and over again? Was he the and every performance. A loss of this magnitude Hollywood token black star to play all characters leaves a void. All of the people around the world in sight? These questions would soon be answered who found their superhero are now gripping with in the same manner as his other roles during the such an unexpected circumstance. However, even four-movie streak from Captain America: Civil in his death, he provided a last lesson that inspires War to Avengers: Endgame, including stand alone yet again. Through the entire height of his career, Black Panther film. Boseman was suffering, but pushed through and In comic books, King T’Challa was commonly didn’t look to give anyone a single reason to worry known as a no-nonsense leader who would only about him. This method doesn’t work for everyPhoto courtesy of @chadwickboseman on Instagram join a group like the Avengers so he can spy on one but gives another reason to look at for why The memorial photo of Boseman released across them. He is vicious, tactical and most above he was so special. Boseman’s roles will never be all his social media platforms on Aug. 28. all would do anything to protect his nation of forgotten, and neither will his own character.
Thursday, September 10, 2020 | Page 17
Life | Old Gold & Black
Dating Advice | Quarantine Edition
THE HOT All’s fair in love and quarantine LIST Useful advice on maintaining relationships amidst quarantine and distance BY ISABELLA MASON Contributing Writer masoif20@wfu.edu Being alone in quarantine isn’t easy. This is something that we all know to be true at this point, which has driven many of us to engage in quarantine hookups, relationships or even just friendships. What you may have realized after engaging in these interactions, though, is that sometimes, being alone in quarantine is easier than being together in quarantine. I’ve been in a relationship for two years with my incredible boyfriend, Mason. When COVID-19 set in at its peak this March, Mason and I spent three months apart. Surprisingly, though, we had some of our best conversations via FaceTime and text during this time of separation. After being long-distance for over a year before COVID-19 hit, he and I had patented some strategies that have led us to be successful thus far in a long-distanced and socially-distanced relationship. Communication is Key You hear your parents tell you this relentlessly after you get into your re-
lationship. While it may not sound super valuable coming from Mom and Dad, I can guarantee you that, without constant and thorough communication, a relationship gets pretty touch-and-go. Mason and I talk a lot, just like any couple. But it’s less about the frequency at which you’re talking, and more about what you’re talking about. I’ve found that being honest about every little thing is more helpful than any other relationship tip I’ve gotten in the past. Do you hate the fact that your partner has an Android, so you want to stop texting and start Snapchatting instead? Tell them! Have you had a long day, and you just need them to listen rather than try to ‘fix away’ your problems? Tell them! This is no excuse to nag, but it is an excuse to open a channel of honest and committed conversations. Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder
Again, clichés a-plenty, but going moderate-to-long amounts of time without seeing your partner can make a huge difference in how you operate as a team. Mason and I went to a boarding school where we basically lived together, and while we had a lot of fun being with each other so often, it got a little exhausting for both of us. When he went away to school the next year, we went from seeing
each other everyday to about every 1-2 weeks. We both found that seeing each other at a lower rate helped us a) take time to develop our own individualities and b) truly let our hearts yearn for each other more, so that when we saw each other again, it was just that much more sweet. This notion is especially helpful in quarantine, when seeing each other may not always be an option.
Top 10 signs your teen is texting about sustainable farming
By Micah Porter
1.
WTF = Where’s the Fertilizer
Consent, Consent, Consent I cannot stress enough how important consent is, even and especially in a long-term relationship. It’s a common train of thought that consent is only for the first interaction between two parties, but I’ve found that consent is a constant, reassured thing that should be present 100% of the time, during sexual activity or not. Consent is of the utmost importance during sex, and with great practice it becomes a regular activity in everyday life, from deciding where to go to dinner to figuring out which hiking trail to take. Not every relationship is meant to work out, but if it brings you as much joy and as little harm as possible, then you might be doing something right. And, just maybe, being together could make COVID-19 a more bearable experience.
3. 5.
BY KHUSHI ARYA Staff Writer aryak19@wfu.edu
Run/ Walk on the Reynolda Trail
We’re two weeks into the semester and as the workload is picking up, so are our excuses to be lazy. Everyone is well aware that exercising supports cognitive functioning, boosts immunity, strengthens cardiovascular functioning and improves mental health. Despite these tremendous benefits, sometimes watching Netflix while eating ice cream in bed just sounds far more appealing than getting sweaty. Regardless, take this article as your workout motivation for the week to crush all your physical activity goals. Despite the pandemic, Wake Forest has numerous workout options so put your excuses on hold and get active! Below are some fun workout ideas that you can try on campus: Swimming The campus rec website allows you to easily reserve a pool lane for 45-minute time slots. I personally
If you’re a freshman, I’m sure you’ve heard upperclassmen rave about the Reynolda trail. I can assure you, it is worth the hype. There are several routes listed on the campusrec.wfu. edu website that I recommend looking into. You could walk up to Reynolda Village and support local restaurants and shops there or walk through the beautiful Reynolda Gardens. It would make for a great little weekend adventure! Weight Training The indoor weight training area at the wellbeing center finally opened up and I don’t know about you, but I’m extremely excited to lift again. Different spots like the squat racks and benches can be reserved for 45-minutes. So wear a mask, sanitize and get those gains! Dance parties Now that we don’t have any parties to go to, why not turn your suite/
DTF = Down to Farm
WYD = Weed your Dandelions
7.
ILY = Increased Land Yield TBH = This Bountiful Harvest
9.
BTW = Bring the Wheelbarrow BS = Big Snail
Staying active despite gym closures find swimming laps an efficient form of cardio that’s easy on the muscles. It’s also a great way to de-stress and get away from school work.
LMAO = Left My Axe Outside LOL = Lots of Lettuce
Advice Column | Getting Fit on Campus
Despite quarantine regulations, exercising on campus is still a viable option
OMG = Organic Musroom Gardening
room into your personal dance floor? My suite mates and I have a blast dancing in our living room and I will say, it is a solid cardio workout. There are also virtual Zumba classes that you can take right from the comfort of your room. Campus Rec is streaming live cardio dance, body combat, and pilates classes so make sure to check the schedule online. Explore fitness apps I am someone who hates repetitive workouts, so changing up my routine with different exercises is extremely important to me. Also, your body gets used to the same movements over time so it’s good to challenge yourself by mixing up your workouts regularly. Nike made its premium training app free and I would highly recommend using it. It has workouts categorized according to muscle group, workout focus, and equipment availability. Additionally, the app offers healthy recipes and workout tips from Nike mastertrainers. Take the stairs Now is the best time to build your endurance on the steps since avoiding elevators is a great way to practice social distancing.
DRINK OF THE WEEK Strawberry Basil Mojito
• • • • • •
Is this a rip-off of a juice shop smootie? Maybe...
3 fresh strawberries 3-5 basil leaves 2 oz. simple syrup 2 oz. white rum 4 oz. lemon-lime soda club soda
Slice the strawberries and place at the bottom of a tall glass along with the basil leaves. Pour in the simple syrup and muddle the mixture. Stir in the rum and top with crushed ice. Top off with club soda and garnish with strawberry slices. 21+ only
Courtesy of Aubrey Heath
Page 18 | Thursday, September 10, 2020
Old Gold & Black | Life
Artist Review | girl in red
girl in red dissapoints with new single As fans eagerly await an album release, girl in red has dissapointed with lead singles
BY JULIA OCHSENHIRT Contributing Writer ochsja20@wfu.edu
Marie Ulven Ringheim, professionally known as girl in red, dropped her new single “rue” on Aug. 26, a song inspired by the HBO series Euphoria. “rue,” and Ringheim’s other single “midnight love” that dropped earlier this year, hint at an album that may wind up being disappointing for fans of her previous work. Ringheim hinted that her next album will be darker and “more mature” than her previous work, and “rue” and “midnight love” are a taste of that darkness. “rue” opens with a sinister, heartbeat-like sound, creating a haunting mood reminiscent of main character Rue’s drug relapses in Euphoria, and features lyrics like “I remember you couldn’t stop crying/ you found me when I thought I was dying.” “midnight love” is similarly sad lyrically, with lines like “I hope that the right time one day arrives/ So, I’ll be willing to let this die/Able to look you right in the eyes/Say I’m not your consolation prize.” While
Ringheim is delivering on her promises to take her lyrics in a different direction, “rue” and “midnight love” show her moving away from a critical part of what made her past music special — a loud, unabashed embrace of queerness. girl in red is so synonymous with queerness that across internet platforms asking “Do you listen to girl in red?” is a common way to find out if a girl is gay. Her most popular songs feature lyrics like “They’re so pretty it hurts/I’m not talkin’ bout boys, I’m talkin’ bout girls,” “Oh Hannah/I wanna feel you close” and “My girl, my girl, my girl/You will be my girl.” There are no nods to queerness on either “rue” or “midnight love.” Instead, the lyrics delve into struggles with mental health and a non-gendered toxic partner, both topics that, while important, have been thoroughly covered in the indie-pop world. Clearly, artists should be encouraged to step outside of their comfort zones lyrically and musically. However, there’s already a critical shortage of female musicians that are not only out as LGBTQ+ but also write songs that are explicitly about relationships with other women. There’s King Princess, but her songs tend to
skew lewd and she has a problematic history, including flashing minors at a concert; there’s Clairo, but her queer songs are softer, less ready-tosing than girl in red’s. girl in red’s music is monumental in that it finally gives queer women relatable music that’s also upbeat and poppy enough for blasting in the car. A full album entirely devoid of acknowledgements of Ringheim’s lesbian identity — which “rue” and “midnight love” as well as comments from Ringheim suggest may be coming — would be a letdown for many fans. Aside from their uninspiring lyrics, musically, “midnight love” is empty Photo courtesy of amazon.com and “rue’’ confused. “midnight love” Single cover for girl in red’s “rue” opens with a repetitive plucked which is based on HBO’s Euphoria. string melody and faint piano backing that begins to feel unimaginative in a club. “rue” lacks the cohesion halfway through. Ringheim seems that Ringheim previously nailed in to be building to something by the summery, bedroom-pop anthems 1:40 mark as her vocals grow more like “girls” and “i want to be alone.” desperate, but the buildup amounts Perhaps girl in red’s full album to nothing and the song closes with won’t be like “rue” and “midnight the same instrumentation as in the love.” I’m hoping that this album beginning, making the track feel will end up like Taylor Swift’s Lover, forgettable and hollow. “rue”’s drum with disappointing lead singles but base creates a darkness and urgency a great track list overall. A sudden that clashes with reverb-heavy, hope- clean break from the queer, indie ful-sounding instrumentals. The magic girl in red is known for would track then transitions into a bland be disappointing to me and to the chorus that wouldn’t be out of place LGBTQ community at large.
Award Shows | Grammys
Grammy contenders emerge this fall
There will be stiff competition for multiple awards at the 2021 Grammy’s BY MICHAEL WALSH Contributing Writer walsmd20@wfu.edu The Recording Academy has announced they will still be holding the 63rd Grammy Awards on Jan. 31 2021. Given that the cut-off date for nominations was Aug. 31, it is officially that time of the year to start discussing which artists will most likely be nominated for the largest Grammy Awards — Best New Artist, Song of the Year, Record of the Year and Album of the Year. The Recording Academy has proved themself to be entirely unpredictable (Note: these are the same people who gave Album of the Year to Bruno Mars’s 24K Magic over Lorde’s Melodrama and Kendrick Lamar’s Damn), but regardless of their past decisions, here are the leading contenders for the 63rd Grammy Awards. The Weeknd and Taylor Swift If any two artists are going to be nominated for the largest awards this
year, it will be Grammy veterans The Weeknd and Taylor Swift. R&B royalty The Weeknd has been in contention for the Grammys since late 2019 when he released his exuberant number one hit “Blinding Lights,” which is the frontrunner for both Record and Song of the Year. Being one of the most commercially-successful albums of 2020, After Hours has basically designated an Album of the Year nomination for The Weeknd, but when it comes to who will win the most prestigious award of the night, it is pop (or folk) princess Taylor Swift’s award to lose. The Recording Academy tries to nominate an array of albums from unrecognizable critically-acclaimed to commercially-successful, but every so often, the Recording Academy hits the jackpot with an album that embodies both large commercial and critical success. Taylor Swift’s surprise indie-folk album Folklore is this year’s jackpot. On a commercial level, Folklore has spent the most weeks this year on top of Billboard’s Top 200 album chart and has sold over two million units, making it the best-selling album of 2020 so far. Swift’s eighth studio album is also critically-acclaimed, with a Metacritic Score of 88. Folklore will most likely give Swift her fourth nomination for
Album of the Year, and if the stars align right on Jan. 31, she could walk away as the most awarded female artist for Album of the Year in Grammy history. Dua Lipa and Harry Styles British pop artists Dua Lipa and Harry Styles have both had a very fortunate year with their sophomore albums Future Nostalgia (Dua Lipa) and Fine Line (Harry Styles). Both of their albums obtained the number one spot on Billboard’s Top 200 album chart and developed massive airplay on streaming services, which puts both of the artists in contention for Album of the Year. Harry Styles is also a leading contender for both Song and Record of the Year for his eccentric single “Watermelon Sugar,” and multi-Grammy winner Dua Lipa could also receive a Record of the Year nomination for her electronic-dance hit “Don’t Start Now,” her highest charting song to date. Megan Thee Stallion Female rapper Megan Thee Stallion has proven herself to be a musical force
to be reckoned with. She has only been a mainstream artist for about a year and already has two number one hits and collaborations with Beyonce, Nicki Minaj and Cardi B. With all of her massive success this last year, Megan Thee Stallion has earned her spot as the leading contender for Best New Artist at the 63rd Grammys, and if she wins, she would be the first female rapper to ever take home the award. Megan Thee Stallion is also in contention for both Record and Song of the Year for her collaboration “WAP” with Cardi B, but due to its sexual lyrics, it would not be surprising if the conservative Recording Academy does not nominate the song. These are just some of the many possible contenders for the 63rd Grammy Awards. They all will most likely be nominated, but let’s not forget that the Recording Academy is a group of very unpredictable voters. Did I mention that they awarded Album of the Year to Bruno Mars’s 24K Magic over Lorde’s Melodrama and Kendrick Lamar’s Damn? Nevertheless, the truth of the unpredictable nature of the Recording Academy will be told in November when the nominations for the 63rd Grammy Awards are announced.
Old Gold & Black | Life
Thursday, September 10, 2020 | Page 19
Entreprenuer Profile | Camino
Camino owner determined to give back to W-S Cary Clifford discusses opening a new location in the library and the struggles of being a business owner
owner. As Beth Thompson, a close friend of Clifford, noted, it’s easy for business owners to dole out responsibilities to employees, but Clifford works with her employees as a team. Thompson describes Clifford as hands-on. As an owner, she’s collaborative, creating an atmosphere in BY EMMA RIEVES which all voices are heard. She ensures that every workContributing Writer er feels included as part of the team. riever17@wfu.edu “She really makes them into a family,” said Nicole Whitaker, a longtime friend of Clifford. “Her staff is Community can make all the difference. In 2011 super tight.” when local entrepreneur Cary Clifford, an artist and When COVID-19 hit in March, Clifford had to baker, needed to move everything from refrigerators make the taxing decision to let some of her Camino to egg cartons from the basement kitchen at Krankies family go. The business took a temporary hiatus from Coffee to a storefront on Fourth Street, a diehard group of friends made it happen. With that step, what the last week in March to the last week in May. Though started as baking for fun turned into a real business: it was a chance for everyone to take a breath, the impact it had on Clifford’s staff still weighs on her heart. Camino Bakery. But it’s not just her staff Clifford cares for. She is wideCamino quickly became a downtown favorite for universitystudents because of its artisanal breads, yummy ly viewed as an activist who has contributed greatly to baked goods and cheery sense of community. Then last reenergizing downtown Winston-Salem. As recent as month, despite all the COVID-19 uncertainty, Clif- 20 years ago, many describe downtown Winston-Saford brought Camino to campus. She opened the fran- lem as empty and boring. Thompson remembers when chise in ZSR library, replacing the Starbucks with her the only thing to do was play billiards. But ever since Emma Rieves/Old Gold & Black fourth retail location. Despite imposing constraints on Clifford broke ground on Fourth Street, the quality of Winston-Salem local Cary Clifford, owner of student customers and risks on her expansion, Clifford downtown has been growing. Camino Bakery, poses in the street for a photo. Now, with COVID-19, Clifford is re-imagining how is determined to continue to give back to the WinstonSalem community that helped her create her business. to rebuild the downtown community and lift spirits. occasionally faces issues of male contractors or vendors As with many start-ups, Camino’s success did not She was part of creating a petition in early July to close not taking her seriously because she is a woman. She happen all at once. In fact, owning a bakery was not the 300 block of Fourth Street on Saturdays, allowing once had a vendor ask to speak to her husband, even always Clifford’s dream. A Winston-Salem native, she restaurants to set up socially-distanced outdoor seating after she explained that she was the business owner. graduated from Rice University in Texas with a degree in the streets. The city agreed to these events, dubbed Nonetheless, Clifford considers herself to be fortuin history. She made her way back to Winston-Salem “The Streatery,” and several have been quite successful nate in her timing. She grew up with a mother who and eventually started making cookies in Krankies’ at filling the streets with diners in recent weeks. frequently faced misogyny at work and older brothClifford has built community in other ways, too. She ers whom she constantly tried to keep up with, so she basement that she sold at the café and local farmers and a group of local female entrepreneurs gather regu- learned over the years how to fight for a voice. Now, as market. With no entrepreneurship or managerial experience, larly. the owner of an expanding local business, she has the “We’re an independent and quirky collection of freedom to simply not hire anyone who does not see Clifford certainly views the daunting task of creating a misfits but we often rely on each other for wisdom, a business as an adventure. her worth as equal to that of a man’s. “I was in the dark with a blindfold on in a window- shoulder to cry on, or random guidance on surviving Clifford pays attention to such details in every aspect less room,” Clifford said. “My learning curve has been, the various regulatory and financial hurdles out there,” of the business. Even after nine years, Clifford rarely Clifford said. shall we say, exciting.” steps back from Camino. If she’s not working in the Even today, it can be hard for a female entrepreneur Clifford has learned a thing or two about what it store, she’s likely creating something to go in it. She takes to own a business: it’s not all passion; it’s hard to gain respect in the same way a male entrepreneur work. Problems range from small annoyances to ma- can, which is why finding community with other simi- even made all the tables in her stores. It’s hard work, but it’s work that she loves. jor issues, and responsibility to fix them falls upon the larly challenged women is important to her. Clifford “The difference between just having a job versus owning a business is very much like the difference between keeping a friend’s kid for an afternoon versus having a baby,” Clifford said. “You are responsible for that baby no matter what happens, no matter the time of day, no matter the cost.” But for her, one of the great joys of owning a business is witnessing that baby grow — and that is just what Clifford intends for Camino. The company’s temporary closure gave Clifford one of her first mental breaks in years, but she was back to work by May. Over the past few months, Clifford committed herself to improving the efficiency and productivity of Camino, researching the best way to navigate running a business during COVID-19. The biggest changes include a shutdown of indoor seating, a new online ordering system and menu layout, and adjusting to student preferences at her recently-opened franchise on campus. Thanks to Clifford’s love for her community, Camino is back up and running. Whether it’s for a freshmade pastry or a special summer drink, Clifford and her team are excited to serve the Winston-Salem community again — downtown and now on Wake Forest’s campus. “What Cary offers — besides great enthusiasm and a big heart and a great sense of how to cook — is how Photo courtesy of @caminobakery on Instagram to bring people together,” local documentarian Diana Delicious pastries sit in the window display at the downtown Camino location. The Camino Greene said. “She understands how to create a profit, in ZSR also has fresh baked food items, that include some vegan and gluten free options. but also how to create a community.”
Page 20 | Thursday, September 10, 2020
Old Gold & Black | Life
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