The Blue & Gray Press

THE

BLUE &GRAY

THE UNIVERSITY OF MARY WASHINGTON STUDENT NEWSPAPER

PRESS

September 26, 2019

VOLUME 93 | ISSUE 4 SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE

1922

UMW Votes club hosts National Voter Registration Day event kate seltzer News Editor

Tuesday, Sept. 25 was National Voter Registration Day. UMW celebrated with an event organized by the new club UMW Votes.

The nonpartisan event on Ball Circle featured booths from NextGen, Feminist Majority Foundation, UMW Votes, Planned Parenthood Generation Action, Young Democrats and several local political candidates.

Stephanie Turcios, a junior political science major and a voting ambassador for UMW Votes, helped run the event.

“We are really focused on registering people, making sure they know where their voting polls are, who the candidates are and just ensuring everyone is educated on all things voting,” she said.

UMW Votes hopes to make National Voter Registration Day an annual event on campus.

“It’s so important, because a lot of people don’t know this, but there’s an election [in Virginia] every year,” said sophomore Amber Brown, one of the event organizers. “People are just like ‘oh, I don’t really want to care about that, I’ll just leave that to the adults.’

But then they don’t realize that this is

students to vote so that we can go out “We believe Virginia could be our future, and we should take action and try to make a change,” Robinson the 30th state [to ratify the ERA], now. Use your voice.” said. and it’s just about swinging the state NextGen’s booth offered students Carmen Liñero-Lopez, the west legislature,” she said. “Last year, the the opportunity to spin to win prizes coast campus organizer for Feminist Senate passed it and the House [of in exchange for pledging to vote on Majority Foundation, helped run the Delegates] did not, so we think that by November 5. organization’s table. She’d travelled swinging the House we can pass it.”

“We’re out here working with from Los Angeles to talk to students Liñero-Lopez referenced state NextGen, doing non-partisan voter about the importance of the Equal elections in years past that came down registration on campus, just trying to Rights Amendment. to less than 80 register college students to vote here,” •UMW Votes | 7 said AJ Robinson, a senior communication and digital studies major.

“A lot of students who are registered at home, a lot of times don’t really go back home to vote. We’re trying to get them to register here so that they can just vote locally.”

“We also want to help people pledge to vote so they remember to go out to the polls and know the issues they care about,” added freshman Abby Zurflew.

“Our generation doesn’t really vote as much as we should... I Jess Foster / Facebook really push our college UMW commemorated National Voter Registration Day with an event on Ball Circle.

Democratic candidates for local office discuss abortion rights and representation of women’s voices in politics Studies Student Association, Women of Color, Planned Parenthood Generation Action, PRISM and UMW Votes.

A panel of local progressive The candidates included Jessica candidates spoke on campus about Foster and Neri Canahui-Ortiz, who are the representation of women’s issues running for state delegate in the 88th in politics on Sept 23. The event was and 54th districts respectively. Also at spearheaded by a group of UMW clubs the event were Joshua Cole running for including the Women and Gender delegate and Qasim Rashid running for state senate, both in the 28th district.

Several students at the event said that women's voices are insufficiently represented in politics.

“At times I feel like women's voices are not being heard,” said Desmone Logan, a sophomore biology major and the secretary for Women Local candidates discussed abortion and issues of equality at a panel on Monday. of Color.

Abigail Buchholz / The Blue & Gray Press “This is a ABIGAIL BUCHHOLZ News Editor

IN THIS

ISSUE

Play Review

great time for [candidates] to hear our restrictions on abortion providers, or voices, to answer our questions and for TRAP laws. them to tell us how they're going to fix “These types of laws are put in the inequality that America is dealing place specifically to restrict abortion with today just in the Fredericksburg access. They try to get passed off area.” as protecting women and protecting This event gave the UMW the unborn, but it's truly just a tactic community a chance to hear from the anti-choice movement to candidates’ perspectives on women's restrict women’s access to choose,” issues. said Izzy Gettier, a senior women and “We kind of gender studies major decided that we and president of “Us men, all three of wanted it to be Planned Parenthood very casual, open Generation Action on us here, should not be to the public, and telling women what to do. campus. just sort of building Joshua Cole Women deserve the right responded to students’ up the student voice in this whole to choose. It’s hard enough concerns. event,” said Sarah “Every year we for a woman to have to go Parker, a junior bring legislation through [abortion] and we that would attempt women and gender can not criminalize it,” studies major and to overturn those the president and TRAP laws or make founder of the it safer for women -Canahui-Ortiz Women and Gender to have their own Studies Student autonomy and right Association. to choose and it's always voted down The event brought together in committee and never makes it to established and newly-formed the floor. When we take the House of organizations. The Women and Gender Delegates we will repeal those TRAP Studies Student Association was laws,” said Cole. chartered the previous Friday. Parker The overall focus of student said she appreciated the opportunity to questions was how the candidates work alongside other clubs. would protect the disenfranchised and One line of questioning directed enforce women’s bodily autonomy. at the candidates was about targeted “Us men, all three •panel | 2

Preferred Name

Club Rowing

The Complete Works of Shakespeare (abridged) [revised].

Inability to change email name is a problem for students.

The rowing team seeks coach and competition.

LIFE | 5

VIEWPOINTS | 3

SPORTS | 8

NEWS THE

Editors: Kate Seltzer & Abigail Buchholz | blueandgray.news@gmail.com

BLUE & GRAY PRESS

MISSION The Blue & Gray Press is published every Thursday in the University Apartments Clubhouse for our university community. The goal of The Blue & Gray Press is to produce high quality and accurate news in a manner compliant with the Society of Professional Journalists ethics code. In its coverage, The Blue & Gray Press strives to highlight the community of the University of Mary Washington, as well as deliver fair and accurate coverage on the issues important to our students.

EDITORS-AT-LARGE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Lauren Closs

Associate Editors Grace Winfield Ginny Bixby

Buisness Manager Lucas Burkholder

SECTION EDITORS NEWS Kate Seltzer Abigail Buchholz

VIEWPOINTS Alicen Hackney

LIFE

Food Recovery welcomes new community partner

nutritious food… it’s feeding these people directly and you’re making this impact,” said Carleigh Rahn, a The Food Recovery program at sophomore English major and COAR UMW had their first recovery of the council liaison. semester on Sept 16, collecting 90 According to Hargrove, during pounds of food. It was then delivered fiscal year 2019 the Brisben Center to their new partner organization, has sheltered 550 individuals, a group the Thurman Brisben Center. Last which consisted of 82 children, 69 semester, the program recovered almost families, 137 single women, 252 single 1,000 pounds of food to donate to local men and 48 veterans. organizations.

“I enjoy being able to help, even The program, which is run through if I haven’t been down to the center COAR, allows the personally university to reduce because of school “We have so much food waste while and work. The one supporting their leftover food. The fact that hour I take out of community and foodour food is literally going my week to help insecure individuals out possibly helps to feed these people, it’s around the city. ten to twenty For the foreseeable nutritious food… it’s feeding people get food. future, all the food these people directly and Just knowing that collected from is satisfaction you’re making this impact.”

Monday dinners enough,” said at the University freshman Lyndsey Center dining hall -Carleigh Rahn Clark. will be delivered to Any student the Thurman Brisben is welcome to participate in the food Center, a non-profit 501C emergency recovery events. homeless shelter. The Brisben Center Currently, the food collected for the provides restorative services to enable Brisben Center comes from Monday its residents to succeed in their journey night dinners. According to Abigail back into permanent housing.The Slaughter, a sophomore Spanish major center serves their residents an average and co-leader of food recovery, the of 95,000 meals per year. In order recovery program doesn’t currently to provide these services, the center have the resources to collect food depends 100 percent on community multiple days a week. sponsors and donated food.

“This is what works for us for “During the weekday lunches, we now… You have to line up if the have less sponsors as most people are dining hall has food, if you have working. This recovery program is transportation, which we normally very important as we will have healthy, do- the COAR van is what we used nutritious meals offered for lunch and to transport the food. So since there’s will just need volunteers to reheat it a lot of moving parts and we’re just and serve it,” said Joe Hargrove, the now getting our footing with this new volunteer coordinator at the Brisben partner organization it’s just going to be Center.

Monday for now,” said Slaughter.

The value of the Food Recovery The food collected for the Brisben program is not lost on UMW students.

Center is stored in the UC overnight “We have so much leftover food. until it is picked up on Tuesday The fact that our food is literally mornings by going to feed these people, it’s •FOOD RECOVERY | 7 Slaughter.

Abigail Buchholz News Editor

Cosima Pellis

SPORTS Jack Hagn

ONLINE Meaghan McIntyre Samuel Cobb

PHOTO Cayley McGuire Noah Strobel

FACULTY ADVISOR Sushma Subramanian

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The Food Recovery program collected 90 pounds of food for the Thurman Brisben Center.

Abigail Buchholz / The Blue & Gray Press

Students emphasized the importance of access to women’s healthcare.

UMW Website

Panel speaks on reproductive rights of us here, should not be telling women what to do. Women deserve the right to choose. It's hard enough for a woman to have to go through [abortion] and we can not criminalize it,” said Canahui-Ortiz.

Students in attendance echoed the sentiment.

“Women need to have power over their own bodies...if we don't have control over ourselves, then what do we have control over?” said Parker.

•Panel | 1

“Run for office on every level so you can shape the future of every woman in the United States.”

-Canahui-Ortiz “I think giving women total and complete control over their bodies, which is something we should have had all along, is one major step in getting women to the point where they can experience life and human existence as something that is actually their own and something they have a position of power in.”

Foster, the only female candidate at the event, agreed.

“There are bills in place right now that are obstructing a woman's ability to make the choices that are necessary for her and her family. For example, mandatory ultrasounds and mandatory medical procedures are barriers put into place so women can't freely choose. I'm a strong supporter for removing those barriers,” said Foster.

The candidates also encouraged those in the room to be the next generation of leaders.

“Run for office on every level so you can shape the future of every woman in the United States,” said Canahui-Ortiz.

Cole also encouraged the students to gather their friends and vote.

“Say, ‘girl, we’re gonna get the state minimum wage raised this year; girl, we’re gonna get our rights back this year; girl, we’re gonna pass the ERA’… Don't go to sleep, don’t give up, don’t be quiet, don't stop tweeting, and make sure you pull everyone out to the polls with you,” said Cole.

CORRECTIONS for THE Week PLEASE REPORT ANY MISTAKES SEEN IN THE BLUE & GRAY PRESS TO Lauren Closs, blueandgray.eic@gmail.com or Sushma Subramanian, ssubrama@umw.edu

Thursday, September 26, 2019

VIEWPOINTS

Editor: Alicen Hackney | blueandgray.views@gmail.com

Preferred name change policy does not protect students

JAMES PRYOR Staff Writer

One of the alluring parts of the Mary Washington identity is the steadfast ideas of inclusivity, as shown through the community goal of ASPIRE. A key point in the ASPIRE acronym is “Inclusive Excellence.”

Working to include all types of people, UMW prides itself on being a hearty ally to the LGBTQ+ community.

A prime example of their support is being one of only a handful of campuses in Virginia to have a genderneutral/LGBTQ+ dorm.

However, UMW’s inclusivity is not without its faults.

The preferred name change policy at the University of Mary Washington holds the potential to hurt its transgender students.

On its surface level, the preferred name change policy is a euphoria-inducing option for transgender students who wish to go by a different name than the one they were given at birth. A student can simply print out the request form found at the University’s Safe Zone Resources website, fill in their preferred name and submit the form to the Office of the Registrar on the second floor of Lee Hall. The name change takes place within three days, resetting the student’s name in banner, canvas and on official class rosters. However, the form does not allow for students to change one of the most vital things to a college student’s education: their email.

“When we initially formed a committee in an effort to address the issue of students’ preferred names, we focused on things that we could accomplish with new functionality within Banner Self-Service (SSB),” said associate registrar for Student Systems, Brian Ogle.

“We also looked at how to get preferred names reflected

in third-party interfaces such as Canvas, and considered places that we would not be able to display a preferred name (such as on an academic transcript). The student email address is not something that was a point of focus for that effort.”

In the reporting process for this article, the fault in the prefered name change system was Safe Zone Resources can be found through the James Farmer brought to the attention of the Office of the students.umw.edu Multicultural Center’s website Registrar and they are looking into taking positive steps to rectify these issues.

UMW’s core values of ASPIRE,” said Goforth.

“If there is a preferred name change system, it should Sophomore Gabe Martin gave an example of how the be able to change everything. It shouldn’t have the faults in the preferred name change policy had directly implication of, ‘this is what you want to be called, but affected him. “It’s very confusing for my peers. I had this is what you’re really called,’ which is sort of what to email my classmates for a group project, and even is implied when it comes to the Outlook Mail account,” though I sign my emails with my preferred name, they said Michael-Elliot Jansen, a sophomore double saw my legal name and called me that instead. It felt majoring in anthropology and biology. “If it doesn’t like a slap to the face,” said Martin. change everything, it’s useless.”

Transgender students should not have to beg UMW “I feel like if you’re filling out a preferred name for the basic respect that is guaranteed to their cisgender change and it’s going to change your name in banner peers. and when professors see it, I think it’s very underhanded George Mason University’s preferred name change of them to not change your email,” said junior Bucky policy states, “Preferred names will be reflected on Goforth. “Not only is that very confusing for professors class rosters, in Blackboard, in Patriot Web (including and other students, it outs you without your permission.

Degree Works) and in directory listings including email It feels extremely invasive.” addresses.”

Goforth went on to explain his own experiences If the University of Mary Washington truly prides with UMW’s name change policy and how even after itself on creating a safe environment on campus for its obtaining a legal name change, his records have yet to transgender students, it will work towards protecting be updated with his correct name. He was originally told those students more, rather than letting them become he only needed to provide court papers, but was later tied up in red tape and then exposed to their professors told he needed an updated SSN card. “I think that this and peers. whole situation of hoops that transgender students have “It just feels gross,” Martin concluded. “I really hope to jump through is really shameful and goes against Mary Washington does something about it.”

Film industry needs original content

The first Disney live action large number of stories they have EMILY MALONE remake was the 1994 version of to choose from. Everyone knows Staff Writer “The Jungle Book.” Since then, the and loves Disney’s classic films, number of remakes have increased from one every and wants to relive their childhood memories, even if couple of years to now three in 2019, and two more this means spending $10 to witness a subpar knock off. projected to be released later this year. The success A frustrating example of this is the 2019 version of these new films has sparked a trend in the movie of the Lion King. The movie was visually beautiful, industry that allows creators to take fewer risks and but lacked the same heart the original did. The movie still make money. received a 52 percent on Rotten Tomatoes and a 55 The movies succeed simply because they piggyback percent on Metacritic. The new movie kept the same off of classics and fan favorites. Originality is put on story line, and even included many of the same visuals, the back burner for an easy profit. Unique stories are for example, the iconic ‘Circle of Life’ scene. Because difficult to find in a world riddled with the remains most of the movie is so similar to one already made, of old movies. Instead of creating art that inspires its it’s pointless for this movie to exist. Yes, the visuals are audience in the present culture, the movie industry is beautiful, but the same artwork could be used for a new dumping recycled stories on a reliable fanbase. This and unique story. new remake and sequel culture in Hollywood is good The only point of this movie is to make more for movie makers, but leaves the audience cheated. money off of an already amazing story. Even though It’s no secret that Disney is one of the biggest the consensus was that the film wasn’t as good as the production companies out there right now. They own original, the 2019 Lion King grossed $1.6 billion, many of the major companies including Marvel, making it the second highest grossing film in 2019 thus Lucasfilm, Pixar and most recently the Marvel far. The movie didn’t have to be a groundbreakingly characters previously owned by Fox, including the good movie to make so much money because people X-Men and Fantastic Four. Many of the movies we see are going to see the movie no matter what. The original in theater have been made by Disney, and they have Lion King is a classic and Disney knows an audience become the icon example of a successful production for this movie is almost a guarantee. business that other companies want to imitate or be a Disney isn’t the only one guilty of taking the part of. easy way out. Looking at the twelve upcoming films This is scary. Although Disney is financially showing at Regal Cinemas by the end of November, successful, the product they create is getting lazier Ad Astra, Hustlers and Abominable are the only three and lazier. Movies should be more than mindless created from original stories. entertainment. They are a way to tell unique stories Movies are expensive to make, costing several in ways other media isn’t able to, and inspire their million dollars, so creating original content can audience. Because it has now become profitable to just be a risk. When creating a story with a preexisting make the same movies over and over, we have lost this sentimental fans, that risk practically disappears. important aspect of This is a great film. Out of the past discovery for film twelve movies made studios, but a

by Disney, eight of disappointing realization them are sequels or for movie lovers. It’s remakes. Three of understandable that the remaining twelve money is an important are Marvel movies, aspect of the film which also have an industry, it is a business ongoing storyline with after all-- but the a reliable audience. process should prioritize Disney is able to do producing art instead of this because of the Disney just making money.

Remakes and sequels are blocking the way for original content.

Thursday, September 26, 2019

Staff Ed: Climate change requires immediate action

By THE BLUE & GRAY PRESS EDITORIAL BOARD

Climate change is a crisis, and it is happening now. According to a report issued Wednesday by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, a group of scientists convened by the United Nations, detrimental effects of climate change on the oceans alone pose a profound risk to hundreds of millions of people living along the coasts.

Rising temperatures and sea levels fuel storms like Hurricane Dorian, making them linger longer and cause more destruction. They also lead to declining fish populations, which threaten global food security.

Scientists have been warning about these changes for decades, and it has only gotten worse.

On Monday morning, 32 activists were arrested in Washington, D.C. for blockading major intersections.

Last Friday, 100,000 people took to the streets in Berlin, Melbourne and London. 60,000 people marched through Manhattan. Tens of thousands of people rallied in Nairobi, Mumbai, Kampala, Manila and Rio de Janeiro. Led by younger generations, the goal of these protests was to demand action against climate change now to ensure a future for everyone.

This pressing issue of climate change deserves the attention and activism of every Mary Washington student. The effects of climate change will become more and more evident in coming years. This makes the global climate crisis a unique and never before seen disaster that our generation will be stuck dealing with the ramifications of. We must demand action from our government, large corporations and industries, and this action must be immediate. As Greta Thunberg, the 16-year-old climate change activist told protesters in New York, “Right now we are the ones who are making a difference. If no one else will take action, then we will.”

This editorial was lead by Lucas Burkholder.

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LIFE

Editor: Cosima Pellis blueandgray.life@gmail.com

Veteran support and resources offered on UMW campus ERIN MATUCZINSKI Staff Writer

According to “U.S. News & World Report,” UMW has been ranked number 7 in best colleges for veterans for 2020.

This rating is based on certification of the GI Bill, participation in the Yellow Ribbon Program and a minimum number of enrolled veterans or active service members. While it may be known that UMW offers military resources, such as the Veteran’s Resource Center (VRC), not many students are aware of the active duty members or veterans around them every single day.

The VRC, located on the first floor of the University Center, is a place for veterans or students who are affiliated with the military to study and socialize with one another. While there are great amenities such as coffee and television, the VRC more importantly provides an opportunity to make connections within the veteran community.

Senior business management and accounting major Dennis Ferry has experienced those connections first-hand.

“Post service life is a lonely and dangerous experience,” Ferry said. “The VRC was a lifeline during my first year where I found a supportive community that I’m trying to pay forward.”

The VRC is not the only social resource available to veterans on campus. The Association of Student Veterans (ASV) is a club on campus

“to promote recognition, appreciation and support to students who are military service members, veterans, their families or their supporters.”

Their goals consist of finding ways to improve the campus atmosphere for veterans, assisting in their adjustment to college life and introducing the rest of the UMW community to student service members and veterans.

The ASV holds events periodically throughout the school year to achieve these goals, such as the annual 22 push-up challenge to raise awareness for the 22 veterans that commit suicide every day.

In November 2018, they succeeded in having students UMW Senior Fred Guerrero works in the Veterans Affairs sign over 350 thank you cards that were presented to Department with the VRC. the local Veterans of Foreign a great job recognizing veterans. I Wars office to thank them for their brave appreciate the ability to register for service in the forces. classes before anyone, so I’ve always Outside of these organizations, staff been able to get into any class I wanted. such as Chris Porter and Ryan Hastings, I also appreciated being thanked for my are described by Ferry as making “nearly military service by teachers and students, heroic efforts” to help the transition from though I certainly don’t expect that.” military service to higher education.

Every bit of support goes a long way.

Senior history major Christopher Simply recognizing service O’Neill said, “I think UMW does members for their sacrifices can make

Iliana Loaiza/ The Blue & Gray Press

a big difference to those who may be struggling with assimilation or their past experiences.

“I appreciate the support veterans get here at UMW,” said O’Neill. “I sometimes think that higher education institutions look down on the military due to having contrary goals in shaping society, but that is not the case with UMW.”

Latino Identities Month showcases culture through dance and music JAI-LEAH GARCIA Staff Writer

Students who attended these events said that they had a good time and felt the events were a good way to relax after a long day of school. One of the biggest events that students enjoyed was Bailemos.

“I think it’s a really good representation of Latino culture as well as a way to have fun,” said Shanthi

September 15 through October 15 marks Hispanic Heritage Month, a time which commemorates the Latinx/ Hispanic culture and celebrates the community as a whole.

In honor of Hispanic Heritage month, UMW’s Latino Student Association (LSA) has prepared a collection of events in order to celebrate the month.

These events aim not only to make Latino students feel included, but also to allow other students to learn more about the culture. For this reason, LSA calls the month-long event Latino Identities Month so that every student feels included in the celebration.

“We created these events to showcase culture authentic to Latino Identities Month. We really just wanted to create a welcoming atmosphere where everyone had the Students were able to learn bachata, salsa, and merengue at Bailemos. opportunity to take in Latinx/Hispanic culture,” said Natalie Vazquez, president of LSA. Gnanasekaran, a junior psychology Last week, LSA hosted their kickoff major. event-- a maraca workshop where Students were able to learn typical students were able to learn about how dance styles of Latino culture such as maracas were made and to make their bachata, salsa and merengue. At the end own maracas. To end the week, LSA of the night, students had a free dance hosted Bailemos, an event where period where they could show their new students could learn some traditional dance skills and hang out with friends. dances.

Faculty members also enjoy the

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Latino Identities festivities.

Eurena Castaña-Nuñez, a Spanish professor, said, “This is an opportunity to meet people and to listen to the songs that I like and to dance to the music that I like.”

For many faculty members from Latin America or Spain, these events are a way for them to enjoy their roots and to feel

something, something that I felt represented who I am and what I stand for,” said Vazquez.

“These are events that past e-boards before us have created and added to the Latino Identities Month celebration.

We kept them because, apart from them being super fun and festive, we like to pay homage to our roots and build on the foundation of those who came before us,” said Vazquez.

Vazquez explained how the celebrations change year to year.

“When it comes to making our events, the e-board works closely with Dr. Stanford. If we want to add or alter an event, we always collab or seek her input,” says Vazquez. “Our theme for Latino Identities Month changes each year, so we try our best to cater to it and have the events be specific to it as possible.

For ideas, we also look to our members, we like to hear what the members liked or didn’t like about Jai-Leah Garcia / The Blue and Gray Press a certain event and we use those as pointers on as though they are home. where to improve.”

“When I was in Spain, I danced every Upcoming Latino Identities Month week,” said Castaña-Nuñez. “Here in the events include a performance called United States, it’s very hard for me to “Music: The Latin Touch” on Sept find a place to dance and enjoy the music 27. On the same day, keynote speaker that I like.”

Delicia Molina Sanchez will be telling Vazquez puts hard work into her story and her mission to fight human creating these events with the members trafficking and abuses against the of LSA. “I wanted to be a part of LGBTQ community.

Thursday, September 26, 2019

LIFE

The Complete Works of Shakespeare (abridged) [revised] is full of humor and brilliant acting

RACHEIN CHILDRESS Staff Writer

“The Complete Works of Shakespeare (abridged) [revised]” is the most recent production to grace the stage at Klein Theatre. As an occasional theater-goer who has only ever taken one acting course, I will be reviewing the play from a casual perspective.

“The Complete Works” follows the mishaps of three presenters who try to act out all of Shakespeare’s plays within a 97-minute time frame. Hindering their efforts are the 37 total plays that Shakespeare wrote, the mass number of characters in his plays that are capable of out-populating my backwater hometown and that fact that the presenters actually have little more than a passing knowledge of Shakespeare.

Indeed, the tone is set when one of the presenters introduces Shakespeare with facts that he lazily found on the internet.

The facts are at first dull and delivered as if by third grader reading bullet points from a PowerPoint presentation, but they soon devolve into absurd inaccuracy, at one point claiming that Shakespeare instigated World War II. This character trait can be a little inconsistent, however, and several instances occur where a presenter who bases their knowledge of Shakespeare on bad Google searches will later go on to provide relatively deep insight or make references that would only be familiar to readers of his work.

The three presenters of “The Complete Works” are not treated as characters- at least, not in the “meta” of the play. Rather, they’re just supposed to be three people who are haphazardly acting out their interpretations of Shakespeare for the audience. A lot of the humor derives from the fact that the Shakespearian characters are overacted and overly dramatic caricatures; this works because it’s really just supposed to be the presenters acting as Shakespeare’s characters, and it’s their own silly interpretations that we’re seeing.

During the parts of the play where the presenters aren’t acting out

Shakespeare’s characters, it works better when they’re written more realistically.

They’re at their best when it feels like you’re actually watching three stooges who somehow managed to put on a production and are just flubbing their way through it.

However, the play struggles when the presenters are written like overacted caricatures themselves. Having the presenters shout “YAY, TRAGEDY!” in unison and dance to celebrate the death of a character for no reason rips you from that immersion and brings the humor to a nosedive, as you’re painfully reminded of the early 2000s when you used to actually enjoy Fred Figglehorn.

The weakest part of the production was the Othello section. It’s the part where they go for their edgiest jokes, and while it’s a good thing that they never overstep their boundaries, most of it is played safe and punches are pulled too early to land successfully. Some of it works, though, such as a jab made at the current Canadian Prime Minister’s expense.

Eventually, the presenters decide to rap the summary of Othello, and it’s here where the play becomes its most uncomfortable. The gag works in a few bits, when it’s treated like the presenters are messily coordinating a rap on the fly. However, it quickly devolves into what seems to be a genuine attempt to rap about Othello, which carries all the embarrassment of a Bill Nye science rap with none of the goofy charm.

There is a lot to enjoy about “The Complete Works,” though. When the humor does land, it lands hard, and a few scenes had me laughing unexpectedly. As I had mentioned previously, the presenters work better outside of Shakespeare when they act more naturally; when they do, they steal the show. The banter and chemistry is great between all three of them, and the production shines when they have a chance to play off each other like Abbott and Costello or- indeed- the Three Stooges.

Prop comedy was something

Aaron Hoffman (right) is fantastic at playing an outrageous diva.

Thursday, September 26, 2019

Geoff Greene / UMW Theatre

I thought the world had collectively gotten over, but it plays quite a prominent role in this production. With sparse stage design (which works for the play), the visual aspect had to be conveyed mostly through props, and it’s done so to great effect. They were always welcome and as silly as they needed to be, and not overly-depended on to deliver the humor. I also appreciated the more subtle uses, such as a crown worn upside-down by a dim-witted presenter.

Huge props to whoever was responsible for props.

The use of improvisation and audience participation was bold for this production, especially for an environment that is normally controlled as meticulously as possible.

Patrons get called up to the stage, actors go to the seats and make banter with the audience- all of that is harder than it looks, because the actors have to think on their feet, and they manage to pull it off effortlessly. A thousand things could have gone wrong and each audience interaction could have elicited a million unexpected responses, but the Erin Foster was great all around and fits perfectly in her role. actors handle it with so much Geoff Greene / UMW Theatre ease and grace that you’d think it was all written directly in the script references for you to get. If you don’t and directed vigorously beforehand. like Shakespeare, then this might not be The actors themselves were all for you, despite what advertising claims. brilliant. Jacob Dodges does an amazing Sure, an English major who detests job of having a commanding presence Shakespeare but was forced to intimately without overpowering his fellow actors. learn his works will find entertainment Aaron Hoffman is fantastic at playing an in the jabs and deconstructed silliness; outrageous diva. Erin Foster was great your average Joe who begrudgingly all around and she fits perfectly in her made their way through “King Lear” role as the closest thing to the “straightusing Spark Notes probably won’t hold man” (though certainly not above being that same level of appreciation. It’s a ridiculous herself) of the trio. solid play, however, and anyone can If you like Shakespeare, chances are appreciate the spectacle that comes with you’ll enjoy this production. It certainly its ambition, even if it isn’t quite for knows Shakespeare, and there are several them.

Jacob Dodges (left) has a commanding presence without overpowering his fellow actors.

Geoff Greene / UMW Theatre

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Weekend Events Thursday

Friday

Saturday

• Thanks in Advance: Jason Robinson @ duPont Gallery • Embodiment: Figurative Works from UMW’s Permanent Collection @ Ridderhof Martin Gallery • The Complete Works of Shakespeare (abridged) [revised] @ Klein Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

• Fred Chat: Friends of the Rappahannock @ UC Magnolia Room, 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.

• Thanks in Advance: Jason Robinson @ duPont Gallery • Embodiment: Figurative Works from UMW’s Permanent Collection @ Ridderhof Martin Gallery • The Complete Works of Shakespeare (abridged) [revised] @ Klein Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

• Music: The Latin Touch @ HCC Digital Auditorium, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m.

• Rocketman @ Monroe 116, 7 - 9 p.m.

• Thanks in Advance: Jason Robinson @ duPont Gallery • Embodiment: Figurative Works from UMW’s Permanent Collection @ Ridderhof Martin Gallery • The Complete Works of Shakespeare (abridged) [revised] @ Klein Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

• Into the Streets @ University Center, 9 - 12 p.m.

• Rocketman @ Monroe 116, 7 - 9 p.m.

• Oktoberfest @ Capital Ale House

theblueandgraypress

The Blue & Gray Press @theBlueandGray

bgpress1922

NEWS POLICE BEAT

Students register to vote on Ball Circle •UMW VOTES| 1

ABIGAIL BUCHHOLZ & KATE SELTZER News Editors

Hit and Run On Wednesday, September 11 between 10:30 a.m. and 8:00 p..m., there was a hit and run in the Alvey parking deck. A vehicle was damaged.

This case is pending.

Possession On Sunday, September 15 at 1:07 a.m., there was an incident of underage alcohol possession at the 1400 block of College Avenue. One administration referral was issued.

votes.

“We believe that the margin could be one college, even one dorm floor, for a lot of these races, so we’re just trying to get out the student vote so we can ratify the Equal Rights Amendment in Virginia,” she said.

Feminist Majority Foundation’s table featured feminist trivia, with ranging from “who, in 2018, became the first female artist with 100 career visits to the billboard hot 100?” – Nicki Minaj – to “which was the first state to give women the right to vote?” – Wyoming, in 1920.

“We believe that the margin could be one college, even one dorm floor, for a lot of these races, so we’re just trying to get out the student vote so we can ratify the Equal Rights Amendment in Virginia.”

-Liñero-Lopez

On Friday, September 20 at 7:21 p.m., a student was found in possession of marijuana at Arrington Hall. One administrative referral was issued.

On Sunday, September 22 at 1:10 a.m., there was an incident of underage possession of alcohol in Mason Hall. One administrative referral was issued.

Grand Larceny Between Tuesday, September 17 at 2 p.m. and Wednesday, September 18 at 7:30 p.m., a backpack and laptop were stolen from an unknown location on campus. The items were recovered September 19.

On Sunday, September 22 between 6:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., items were stolen from a vehicle at the Tennis Center parking lots.

Sexual Battery On Thursday, September 19 between 9:57 p.m. and 11 p.m., there was a sexual battery in Virginia Hall. This case is pending. A referral to the Office of Title IX and the Commonwealth Attorney was issued.

“We’re about to celebrate the centennial,” Liñero-Lopez said. “It would be really f---ing amazing if we could also at the same time ratify the ERA into the constitution.”

Planned Parenthood Generation Action’s table asked students to match quotes about abortion to the local candidate who said them.

“We’re just out here to support national voter registration day and educate people about different candidates’ views on abortion,” said junior Claire Ross, an anthropology

and historic preservation major. unfortunately. So when we have some “I would say [the event is] important sort of day commemorating it and because who’s in office at the time celebrating it, it’s a great opportunity to is really a major factor in the health bring awareness to it.” of Planned Parenthood as the biggest Republican incumbent Mark provider of reproductive healthcare.

Cole is running against Jess Foster It really matters whether or not they for Delegate in the 88th District. A have funding... The more people who representative from his campaign vote, especially young people, the present at the event declined to be better for us and for everyone else who interviewed. needs Planned Parenthood.”

Also present at the event were representatives, or in some cases the candidate themselves, from the Joshua Cole, Qasim Rashid, Jess Foster, Mark Cole and Amy Laufer campaigns.

Hannah Fishman, field director for Foster’s campaign, said she loves National Voter Registration Day. “We had a really good day talking to lots of voters and lots of students.

People seem really excited and we’re really excited about getting rid of the current representation,” she said. “It’s hard to get people excited about registering to vote and about Students go all out for voter registration day. voting in general, John Wray / The Blue & Gray Press

First delivery to Thurman Brisben Center a success The majority of leftover food is packaged, but there are a few limitations to what can be safely taken.

“We don’t take soup, it’s hard to transport and it will spill whether you’re a careful driver or not. It just will happen,” said Slaughter.

Slaughter is one of the few who has been able to see first hand the impact the UMW Food Recovery program has at the Brisben Center.

“Today was our first delivery actually. I got there and saw all these sweet kids and parents eating breakfast

•FOOD RECOVERY| 2

and I’m like ‘this is going to be their dinner tonight,’ it kind of hit me,” said Slaughter.

Students who participated in the first food recovery of the semester for the Brisben Center described the experience as eye opening.

“I thought the first recovery was fun. However, it made me realize how much food goes to waste and made me appreciate what Food Recovery is doing by taking the food to those who need it,” said Clark.

“I think it [food recovery] is really important, you shouldn’t expect people to just be on their feet immediately.

Intoxication On Sunday, September 22 at 1:00 a.m., there was an incident of underage intoxication at Mason Hall. One administrative referral was issued.

The Food Recovery program currently collects food once a week.

Abigail Buchholz / The Blue & Gray Press

Thursday, September 26 2019

“I got there and saw all these sweet kids and parents eating breakfast and I’m like ‘this is going to be their dinner tonight,’ it kind of hit me.”

-Abigail Slaughter There’s a pretty big homeless population in Fredericksburg, which I didn’t know before volunteering for Food Recovery. It’s been a big eye opener about people, your neighbors could need this help. It’s nothing to be ashamed of, it’s just life. If you need a meal you should be able to get one,” said Slaughter.

This semester the Food Recovery program hopes to collect 1,000 pounds of food for the Brisben Center.

Slaughter also hopes to spread the group’s mission around campus in order to encourage more participation.

“I feel like starting at the local level is so important because seeing the impact that this program can make is only going to broaden our horizons and help us secure other opportunities like bring more people on maybe or donate to multiple places or have multiple food recoveries a week,” said Slaughter.

7

SPORTS

Editor: Jack Hagn | blueandgray.sports@gmail.com

New bill allows college athletes to get paid for play GRACE MONTES Staff Writer

On Sept. 9, 2019, the state of California unanimously passed the bill “Fair Pay to Play.” This bill will allow college athletes to receive profit from the use of their names and image and receive authorization to sign endorsement deals. This bill would essentially allow college athletes to be paid for their work, appearances and publicity.

Several UMW students have shared their support for the passing of this bill, and their thoughts on how it could create new opportunities that are overall beneficial to student athletes.

One supporting reason is the financial struggle that the majority of college students endure, especially athletes.

Senior Samuel Mackin said, “Every time I am at these games, I see the athletes putting in their all, and I would love to see their efforts rewarded.

Speaking as a college student myself, these athletes could benefit from all the financial help they can get.”

“I think it is necessary for these athletes to be paid. It can serve as money for school-related expenses and serve as a kind of financial aid. It can allow coaches to notice them and hopefully increase their chances of a professional career,” said sophomore Jai-leah Garcia.

Another reason is branding. Athletes gain a following, and in turn become the face of a franchise. Fans and supporters become passionate not only for their favorite teams, but their favorite players.

As an athlete’s name, number and even face appear on water bottles, t-shirts and magnets, the franchise profits--but

perhaps the player should get a cut, too. image and likeness scheme, it would Jasmine Nixon acknowledged that erase the critical distinction between image can become a major component college and professional athletics.” of an athlete’s success. “College The letter also argued that it would athletes would benefit from their image create inequality between college athletes being sold and used because it would outside of California, stating that, “nearly be mutually beneficial for both the half a million students in all 50 states companies and the athlete. The athlete compete under the same rules. This bill would gain popularity and create a would remove that essential element of bigger name for themselves, increasing fairness and equal treatment that forms the chance of them being signed to the the bedrock of college sports.”

NFL, and the companies would have a Another voice speaking out against market increase due to the athletes rising the Fair Pay to Play Act is former NFL fan base.” quarterback Tim Tebow, who shared The bill has also caught the attention his view on ESPN’s First Take. He of bigger names in the sports industry. expressed feelings of inequality, saying NBA star Lebron James shared his that “It changes what’s special about support via twitter to his large fanbase. college football. We turn it into the NFL, “This law is a GAME CHANGER. where who has the most money, that’s College athletes can responsibly get paid where you go.” He further went on to for what they do and the billions they share his own personal college athletics create.” experience, explaining that he did not While there has been mostly positive profit from the sales of his jersey. reception of the bill, the National The debate over the Fair Pay to Play Collegiate Athletic Association, also Act poses two very different stances known as the NCAA, has spoken out in on the opportunities created with the opposition of the Fair Pay to Play Act. passing of the bill. With the attention it The NCAA is a non-profit has received from well-known figures in organization that oversees student the sports industry, the pending approval athletes throughout over a thousand of the bill leaves many in anticipation of institutions. The organization sent a letter what is to come out of it. California Gov. to California Governor Gavin Newsom Gavin Newsom must rule on it 30 days within days of the passing of the bill, from the passing of the bill. outlining several arguments against it.

The letter read, “If the bill becomes law, and California’s 58 NCAA schools are compelled to allow ncaa.com an unrestricted name, The NCAA is against the Fair Pay to Play bill.

Club rowing beached due to loss of long-term coach

ELLA GREEN Staff Writer

season.

“We have had a hard time in the past encouraging people to join since not a lot of people want to get up super early and rowing is such a niche sport that not a lot of people know what to expect,” Resweber explained.

The recent influx of new members this year shows promise. “This year we tried to advertise a bit more than in years past to gain more members and we hope that in the spring we will have some more recruits,” said Resweber. “We actually had a good pool of women join the team this year which is great.”

Compared to what the veteran team members have come to expect, this fall season is a bit unorthodox. “We will not be able to row and get out on the water as early as we had in the past but we are going to do our best to have a decent fall training season so that we can have a normal spring season,” said Resweber.

In response, the focus on what the team hopes to accomplish has also shifted.

“To me, a productive year is me getting back into shape after not being

During a typical fall season, the UMW rowing team would be preparing to go to Richmond and the Occoquan to compete. This year, however, it is possible they may never touch the water.

The UMW rowing team was moved from Varsity Club to Campus Recreation club this past summer, following the retirement of coach Richard Adams, who has been with the team since the fall of 2015. While Adams is missed, so are this season’s practices.

“We cannot go on the water until we get a coach, and currently we are trying to get one of our rower’s old coaches to come out and practice with us on the water,” said rowing board president and junior Delaney Resweber.

However, this may only be a temporary solution. “His paperwork is still going through…[plus] he is only going to be here for this semester,” said Resweber. “We are trying to reach out to Master’s programs on the Occoquan to find a coach and we are in the process of creating an ad.”

Resweber is not opposed to the transition. “While we lost some things, like access to an athletic trainer and the strength and conditioning room, I do not think the move was bad,” said Reweber. “Under Campus Rec we have a bit more flexibility with fundraising, driving the vans.”

The team continues to outreach and accept new members, eager to begin a new The team cannot row on the water without a coach.

Thursday, September 26, 2019

able to do crew last year,” said team member David Miller. “I feel that the gains we make during our gym practices are only going to make us a better team when it is time to do races both this semester and next.”

Miller continued, “While we are still not able to get onto the water, the conditioning we do on land will allow us to focus on the technical aspect of crew when we are able to get onto the water.”

In terms of the team’s physical strength and technique, Resweber has set her goals as well. “Our main goal is to keep up our fitness and refine our technique while we are in the erg room, where the rowing machines are, so when we get out on the water there is not as huge of a learning curve. I think finding a coach and being able to have a positive impact on our novices is my main goal this year.”

At least for the first semester, the team may not be able to compete in any regattas if they are without a coach. So far, the rowers have yet to be deterred from their commitment to the team, and to each other, in the face of adversity.

University of Mary Washington Fall Sports Schedule

Women’s Soccer (3-4)

Sep. 14 L @ Va. Wesleyan (2-1) Sep. 18 W vs. N.C. Wesleyan (3-0) Sep. 21 W vs. Catholic (2-0) Sep. 25 @ Shenandoah Sep. 28 vs. St. Mary’s (Md.)

Men’s Soccer (5-2-1)

Sep. 14 T @ Roanoke (0-0) Sep. 18 T @ Catholic (0-0) 2OT Sep. 21 W vs. Widener (1-0) Sep. 28 vs. St. Mary’s (Md.) Oct. 2 @ Salisbury

Field Hockey (2-5)

Sep. 18 L @ Shenandoah (3-2) Sep. 21 L @ Lynchburg (6-2) Sep. 24 L vs. Catholic (4-1) Sep. 27 @ Va. Wesleyan Sep. 29 @ Rhodes

Volleyball (6-8)

Sep. 21 L vs. Mount Union (3-0)

@ Selinsgrove, Pa. Sep. 21 L vs. Heidelberg (3-0)

@ Selinsgrove, Pa. Sep. 25 W vs. Marymount (Va.) (3-0) Sep. 28 vs. St. Mary’s (Md.) Oct. 2 @ Salisbury

Men’s Rugby (0-2)

Sep. 7 L vs. Kutztown University (36-8) Sep. 21 L @ Penn State University (22-0) Oct. 12 @ Wheeling Jesuit University Oct. 26 @ Army Nov. 2 vs. St. Bonaventure Nov. 9 vs. Notre Dame College

Women’s Rugby (1-0)

Sep. 21 W vs. Old Dominion (38-21) Sep. 28 vs. Maryland Oct. 5 vs. Longwood Oct. 19 vs. Alumni Oct. 26 @ William & Mary

Full Schedule not listed above.

Most recent games included.

Bold indicates home game.

UMW Rowing Team

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