The Commonwealth Times; January 20, 2021

COMMONWEALTHTIMES.ORG @theCT

THE INDEPENDENT PRESS OF VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY 2019, 2020 Newspaper Pacemaker Winner

VOL. 62, NO. 14 JANUARY 20, 2020

COVID-19 vaccine to roll out for some students ANYA SCZERZENIE Staff Writer

‘GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE’

Armed demonstrators wearing tactical gear gather in front of reporters in Richmond on Lobby Day. Photo by Enza Marcy

Groups visit Richmond for Lobby Day, MLK Jr. Day ahead of U.S. inauguration

KATHARINE DEROSA News Editor ANNA CHEN Contributing Writer

Clinical students who work directly with patients will be first in line among VCU students to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, according to a university release.

The eligible group of more than 2,000 includes select students from the schools of medicine, dentistry, nursing and social work; the College of Health Professions; and a few from the departments of kinesiology, psychology and health sciences.

VCU public information officer Alexandra Nowak said 2,100 students are eligible for the vaccine. Other students and faculty will be vaccinated when they are eligible under the Virginia Department of Health’s guidelines. The university administers the vaccines at VCU Medical Center.

The two vaccines that are being used in the United States, the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, are both given in two doses to provide the most protection, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Doses are given 21 days apart for the Pfizer vaccine, and 28 days apart for the Moderna vaccine, according to the CDC. If someone receives the second dose late, it does not change the level of protection it provides, but getting it too early is not recommended.

Another vaccine, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, is single-dose but requires approval from the Food and Drug Administration.

Virginia is currently in phases 1a and 1b of its vaccination plan, according to the Virginia Department of Health’s website. These phases include healthcare and other frontline essential workers, those 65 and older, people with underlying medical conditions and those in institutions such as correctional facilities and nursing homes.

The vaccination phase varies by county in Virginia. Richmond was recently upgraded to Phase 1b according to VDH’s website. A few localities in Virginia are still in Phase 1a, including the Virginia Beach area.

See Vaccine on page 3

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HILE PROTESTERS STRAPPED WITH GUNS and tactical gear were outnumbered by reporters Monday morning at the Virginia State Capitol, Richmonders on the other side of town at Marcus-David Peters Circle played basketball, danced and barbecued to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day. A year ago, Lobby Day demonstrations drew thousands of people to the state Capitol grounds to protest gun control legislation.

This time, protesters in small groups trickled into the area that was already filled by police and journalists.

See Lobby Day on page 2

An unidentified man waves a transgender pride flag at the Virginia State Capitol on Monday.

Photo by Enza Marcy

The VCU Massey Cancer Center is located on VCU’s medical campus.

Photo by Enza Marcy

2 The Commonwealth Times

Stories of the week

national: President Joe Biden was inaugurated in Washington on Wednesday. He is the oldest person to hold the office. international: Brazil began administering COVID-19 vaccines, experiencing a shortage of doses.

LOBBY DAY

Four people pose for photos on the base of the Robert E. Lee statue on Monday in Marcus-David Peters Circle. Lawrence West, right, collaborated with local nonprofits to hand out food in the reclaimed space. Photo by Enza Marcy

Groups visit Richmond for Lobby Day, MLK Jr. Day ahead of U.S. inauguration

Continued from front page

Black Lives Matter RVA member Lawrence West said the day was meant for celebration. West said the group was being proactive instead of reacting to demonstrations at the Capitol grounds.

“We’re out here having a good time like we’re supposed to on Martin Luther King day,” West said.

The VCU Police Department and health leaders were aware of the events pertaining to the state Capitol and the presidential inauguration, according to public information officer Cory Byers. Byers said in an email that VCU PD is actively working with local, state and federal law enforcement partners to surveil traffic and encourage safety during these events.

“The VCU Police Department is committed to the safety of every person within our community here in Richmond and we are committed to treating every person with dignity and respect,” Byers said in an email.

On Jan. 6, in an endeavor to block the presidential election results from

proceeding, supporters of former President Donald Trump swarmed and charged at the U.S. Capitol building, causing the House of Representatives and Senate to evacuate and for the National Guard to be deployed.

Regarding the upcoming Virginia General Assembly sessions and its related activities, Capitol Police are working with their security partners, the Virginia State Police and Richmond Police, said Joe Macenka, public information officer for the Division of Capitol Police, in an email.

“We provide a safe environment for not only the legislators to do their jobs, but for their constituents to be heard,” Macenka said in an email. “Ours is a government of the people, and it is vital that the people be given a chance to have input in the legislative process.”

Sophomore English major Marisa Ruotolo said she noticed ironies when analyzing the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol building versus Black Lives Matter protests last summer. She said the BLM protests

were about human rights issues, while the insurrection was simply a disagreement with the government.

Police in Richmond often responded to protests last summer with hostility, deploying chemical agents and using rubber bullets to disperse crowds and nearby journalists. The Richmond Police Department spent $2 million responding to citywide protests during late May and June, according to Virginia Public Media.

“It took so long for the police at the Capitol to fire back at the protesters who were actually violent,” Ruotolo said, “but when police see the BLM protests, they would often break out tear gas and plastic bullets immediately.”

Billy Healy, a member of the Virginia Citizens Defense League, came to the Capitol on Monday to protest. He was sporting an orange beanie, an orange bowtie and denim overalls. Healy said he is against gun control legislation because he believes he owns many of the guns that could be “taken away.”

“They’re not going to hurt anyone,” Healy said. “They’re just sitting at home in a safe.”

The Original Black Panthers of Virginia were also present for Lobby Day, assembling on Main Street near the Capitol around 12:30 p.m. Leading member Mike Pain said the group came to show their support for the Second Amendment.

When asked about the presence of farright groups in the area such as the Proud Boys, Pain said they all had the right to assemble for the Second Amendment.

“We’re not here to fight with anybody,” Pain said.

Later in the day, spirits were high at Marcus-David Peters Circle. People danced under the tall statue of Confederate leader Robert E. Lee, and volunteers bundled in coats handed out hot food under tents.

Eli Swann from housing support service Va Hubb said he partnered with nonprofit Richmond Food Not Bombs and other local organizations to serve food at the circle.

Swann said Hubb stands for “help us be better.” Richmond Food Not Bombs distributes groceries every Sunday at 4 p.m. in Monroe Park.

“We will occupy until change comes,” Swann said regarding occupying the grassy area of the circle.

The space was reclaimed by protesters this summer. The Lee monument, in its current graffitied state, was named “The Most Influential Work of American Protest Art Since World War II” by The New York Left: The Boogaloo Boys gathered on 9th Street and were led by Mike Dunn. Right: “Bee” sits in a chair at Marcus-David Peters Circle.

Times in 2020.

He said he tends to the gardens at the circle. Photos by Enza Marcy

Wed. January 20, 2020 3 VACCINE

Cars pull up to VCU Massey Cancer Center at 401 College St. Photo by Enza Marcy

COVID-19 vaccine to roll out for some students Continued from front page Phase 1c, which has not started yet, will include essential workers such as faculty and staff at higher education institutions.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, addressed questions about the virus and the vaccine at a virtual event hosted

by VCU on Jan. 8.

Fauci said mass vaccinations of non-vulnerable groups will ideally begin in April,

and that vaccination should be completed by the end of the summer in 2021.

“In April, we start open season. Anyone can get vaccinated,” Fauci said. “If we vaccinate efficiently in April, May, June, July — and that’s a big if — then we could start approaching a reasonable degree of normality towards the mid-fall of 2021.”

Fauci also addressed a question about the importance of the second vaccine dose.

“The second dose is absolutely critical,”

Fauci said. “One dose of the Moderna or Pfizer has not been proven to be effective to the degree we want, and we don’t know how long that protection lasts. Whatever you’re hearing, one dose of the Moderna or Pfizer is not optimal.”

Senior nursing student Rebecca Blackford is still recovering from COVID-19 but plans to get the vaccine once she is symptom-free. As a student in clinical rotation, she is already eligible to take the vaccine.

“I’m definitely still getting it, and I’m so blessed I’m able to make that choice,” Blackford said.

Blackford said she has noticed a lot of anticipation building around the vaccine.

“I think most students will take it,” Blackford said. “For people who don’t want it, I would ask them — obviously without judgement — why they don’t want it, and start a conversation with them to talk through their fears and concerns.”

Vaccine distribution schedule infographic PHASE

PHASE

PHASE

1a

• Healthcare workers • Residents of long-term care facilities VACCINE AVAILABILITY

1b

• People 65 and older • People with underlying medical conditions • Frontline essential workers • People in correctional facilities, migrant labor camps, and homeless shelters

1c

• Other essential workers

VACCINE AVAILABILITY

VACCINE AVAILABILITY

LOCALITIES IN PHASE 1a • Virginia Beach • Hampton Roads • Norfolk • Lynchburg • West Piedmont Health District (waiting on supply of vaccines, not giving vaccines yet) • Emporia & Hopewell

LOCALITIES IN PHASE 1b • Richmond • Henrico • Chesterfield • All of Northern Virginia (Loudoun, Fairfax, Alexandria, Arlington, Prince William, Winchester, etc.)

• Chesapeake County

• Eastern Shore • Roanoke • Lenowisco • Pittsylvania-Danville • New River Valley • Rappahannock • Shenandoah Infographic by Ni Sang and Andy Caress Information compiled by Anya Sczerzenie

4 The Commonwealth Times

Illustration by Seulgi Smith

SAGAL AHMED Contributing Writer

J

UNIOR PSYCHOLOGY MAJOR ANNIKA Patel stayed on campus for the majority of break, but went home for the holidays and her brother’s birthday.

“It was a hassle because I had to quarantine before, which means I had to miss a week of work,” Patel said.

In order to limit her public exposure and risk for getting COVID-19, Patel decreased her hours working as a soccer coach. Patel said her parents had to help her with paying rent and bills because of her decreased hours.

“I made the decision to work less hours because it was safer for my family and I,” Patel said. “It felt weird having to depend on my parents again for some time, but I do appreciate them helping me out.”

Her father is almost 60 years old, which has led Patel to become cautious when it comes to following COVID-19 procedures.

“When I stayed in Richmond, I didn’t go outside,” Patel said. “I would Instacart my groceries and spray every single package that I got down.”

Patel said she often saw people walking or running around campus without a mask.

Students spent the holidays at home and on campus over long winter break The only time Patel went outside was when she would travel back to her hometown of Yorktown, Virginia.

To occupy her time, Patel said she studied for the GRE exam and watched “Criminal Minds” on Netflix.

Patel said she was shocked to see people attend Christmas and New Year parties through social media. Patel saw a post that included 20 teenagers, none of whom were wearing a mask, in one picture.

“Even with the pictures with the masks on, you have to wonder like, ‘did they put the mask on for the picture and take them off afterwards?’” Patel said.

VCU senior public relations specialist Brian McNeil said those who resided in Ackell, Broad & Belvidere, Cary & Belvidere, Grace & Broad, West Grace North and West Grace South were allowed to stay from Wednesday, Nov. 25 at noon to Friday, Jan. 15 at 10:00 a.m. According to McNeil,

there were 972 residents approved to stay over winter break.

Members of Jewish Life at VCU celebrated the holidays with precaution over the break. Senior public relations major Jenna Hasher helped organize the group’s twonight Hanukkah celebration.

“It is important because Hanukkah is usually a time where we come together and remember a miracle that occurred,” Hasher said. “Right now, we need miracles more than ever, so being able to share that experience with others was so special.”

The event was held on the first and last night of Hanukkah and took place outdoors.

Fifteen people attended the first night, and five attended the last night. Members followed guidelines from VCU and the Virginia Department of Health, such as wearing masks and social distancing.

There were several changes to the celebration to accommodate the precautions

taken, which included not having a big dinner or lighting the menorah on campus. Instead of on-campus gatherings, the events were held at the Jewish Life Center in Richmond.

“We did have little treats that were in to-go bags that they could take with them,” Hasher said.

“We also had little menorah kits.”

The group required attendees to RSVP beforehand to maintain a 15-person limit.

Because of safety concerns and travel restrictions, Hasher said many members were unable to celebrate with family.

“We hosted the small event so that they had somewhere to go,” Hasher said.

The event included discussing the background of Hanukkah and what celebrating means amid COVID-19.

“We take this time, and we light these candles to represent that we are beacons of light in the world, that good things can happen and that miracles can happen as well,” Hasher said.

Virtual classes begin on Jan. 25 with exceptions for students who are in clinical and field placements, co-ops, internships and other work-related learning activities.

Students, professors contemplate transfer of political power SAHARA SRIRAMAN Contributing Writer As the early days of President Joe Biden’s administration unfold in Washington, members of the VCU community anticipate ripple effects to be felt at the university level in culture and policy.

The effects from the first days of Biden’s administration will “bleed out into the community almost like a domino effect,” political science professor Deidre Condit said.

Condit, who holds a doctorate in political science, said VCU will undergo a variety of changes that range from immediate to more gradual.

“Immediately, we don’t know what some of the changes will be because the political landscape is very incendiary, and the inauguration will fuel that,” Condit said. “Therefore, the city might feel a little unsettled during this time.”

Condit said that if Biden calls for Americans to wear masks for 100 days and COVID-19 vaccines are administered to students and faculty, she believes the university will be able to get back to normal.

Atoosa Haghani, the President Emeritus of VCU’s Young Democrats, expects the transition to divide the campus in various ways.

“The peaceful transition has been something that has been embedded in America’s democracy since George Washington turned down a third term,” Haghani said.

Haghani says that once Biden becomes president, people will think more with their heads instead of their emotions. She said one silver lining of the pandemic may be that people are more informed about current affairs.

Haghani said VCU, along with other universities, should make more changes to its institutional policies, such as acknowledging that the land VCU is on once belonged to people of color, so that minority groups can feel protected.

“If VCU wants to hold this platform of inclusivity and diversity, then they should try implementing that at its core, within its students, so that they feel safe on campus,” Haghani said.

Vice president of VCU’s College Republicans Isaiah Hicks said his group and other political student groups on campus can ensure peaceful transitions of power in the

Illustration by Marisa Stratton

future by acknowledging certified results but continuing to advocate for their beliefs.

“We can still push for changes on the local level, or the core levels, or even in the next four years when there’s another presidential race,” Hicks said.

Hicks said he hopes VCU becomes more tolerant of different viewpoints.

Regarding Biden’s plans for a mask mandate and vaccine rollout, Hicks said VCU will likely benefit from these plans,

especially when it comes to protecting families of students and faculty.

Hicks said the new presidential term might encourage people to get more involved with political groups on campus, but that future politicians will view this year’s transfer of power as a negative example.

“We’re viewing the transition as something that, obviously, should happen and is basically inevitable,” Hicks said.

Wed. January 20, 2020 5

Stat of the week

Men’s basketball is second in the NCAA in steals per game, logging an average of 11.5.

COMPETITIVENESS AND HUSTLE DRIVE HYLAND TO THE BASKET

Sophomore guard Bones Hyland shoots a 3-pointer against JMU on Dec. 22. Photo by Megan Lee NOAH FLEISCHMAN Sports Editor When sophomore guard Nah’shon “Bones” Hyland rose up for a deep 3-pointer at La Salle last season, his high school coach sat in the stands and said “layup.” It turned the heads of those who sat around him, but Rod Griffin knew the ball was going in.

The shot swished through the basket at Tom Gola Arena in Philadelphia. It was something Griffin had seen from Hyland since his eighth grade season — the first time he saw the Wilmington, Delaware native on a basketball court.

“I saw him as an eighth grader, this long, lanky kid,” Griffin said. “He could shoot,

and he made great passes. So he’s always been that way. He’s always had that ability to shoot from anywhere.”

The 6-foot-3-inch guard’s shooting ability was on full display a year ago, logging the most 3-pointers as a freshman in program history, knocking down 63.

His consistent shooting quickly made him a fan favorite. Some fans made signs with the words “Bone Yard,” and others held plastic bones in the air. The signs and props are a tribute to Hyland’s childhood nickname, “Bones,” attributed to his slender frame.

“Bones is like the Pied Piper,” Griffin said. “He puts cheeks in the seats. People come to see him play.”

COMPETITIVE EDGE

Sophomore guard Bones Hyland attempts a 3-pointer against N.C. A&T on Dec. 9. Photo by Megan Lee

W hen Hyland steps into the gym, he’s locked in, said Mar Mason, his trainer in Delaware. He said the “dog” in Hyland is what sets him apart from others — he wants to be the best.

“One of the sayings is don’t let anyone outwork you,” Mason said. “There ain’t too many people that are going to outwork him in the gym.”

Mason has trained Hyland since his eighth grade season, and said Hyland’s drive and competitive spirit has made the sophomore a better player.

Mason said Hyland finds it unacceptable if he misses twice in a row during drills.

“No matter what, I’ve always been a competitive guy who always wants to win,” Hyland said. “I’ve always had that drive since I was younger.”

Griffin, who coached Hyland all four years at St. Georges Tech in Middletown, Delaware, said Hyland’s biggest strength is being competitive.

Bones Hyland MINUTES

2019-20 2020-21

POINTS

ASSISTS

STEALS

20.6 9.0 1.8 0.8 29.5 18.1 1.5 2.2 Infographic by Jayce Nguyen Information compiled by Noah Fleischman

“He was going to make sure he was going to compete on every single play and be the best player on the court,” Griffin said.

“His competitive nature and toughness has always been a couple of things that he's always done well.”

Hyland’s motivation is on his arm and he looks at it every day — a tattoo memorializing his grandmother and baby cousin who passed away in a house fire in 2018.

“I just know like it’s just a voice in the back of my head, ‘we’re proud of you just keep going,’ even though I miss them,” Hyland said. “But every day I look to my arm and say ‘This is who I’m doing it for.’”

Hyland said his mother motivates him each day after he watched her take care of his cousins on her own without any excuses.

He said that her “no excuse” attitude is what he channels each day.

“Taking care of numerous cousins and numerous nephews and nieces just on her own,” Hyland said. “Just seeing her be so strong and wise and not complaining ever since I was a younger age.”

REPETITION AND THEN SOME Hyland’s ability to knock down 3-pointers on a consistent basis has come from spending hours in the gym, working on his craft.

With the amount of time Hyland has dedicated to the sport, Mason equated basketball to being Hyland’s job.

“It’s all repetitions,” Mason said. “It’s about being effective, about efficiency. So when he gets in a game, it’s like he’s already been through it. … It comes naturally.”

Hyland’s mid-range shot was something Griffin focused on at St. Georges. He was able to work with Hyland on his jump shot and ball handling, and it surprised college coaches when they saw him play, Griffin said.

Hyland’s jump shot is on point, but this season he’s been able to showcase his ability to get to the rim.

Opposing teams have tried to limit his opportunities to shoot open 3-pointers this season by face guarding, or playing tight on him at the arc.

“Just staying aggressive and strong, and just mentally tougher than my opponent because I know he’s gonna try to throw me off my game,” Hyland said. “So just try to stay locked in throughout the game plan.”

Mason said Hyland is the type of player that requires a watchful eye from the opposing team.

“You can’t really leave him alone, and you got to play up on him,” Mason said.

“If you play up on him, he’s going right by you. So that definitely makes him a bigger threat than most.”

Hyland, who isn’t known for being the most physical player on the court, said size doesn’t matter, but the drive to succeed does.

“I’m not the biggest, not the strongest, but I would say I’m the most competitive guy who can step out there and compete on the floor,” Hyland said. “If your mind, your mentality is stronger, I feel as though you can go a long way as far as competing and out winning a guy.”

6 The Commonwealth Times

Volleyball set out to maintain A-10 dominance with start of season JOE DODSON Contributing Writer

After a year and two months of uncertainty, practice and intrasquad scrimmages, volleyball players will take the court and start their season against Liberty University on Jan. 22.

Usually, January is a time of debriefing for the program, according to head coach Jody Rogers. However, Rogers and her team are preparing to defend their Atlantic 10 regular season title.

Last season, the Rams received an atlarge bid for the NCAA tournament for the first time in program history and lost to Cincinnati in the first round. The season was moved from the fall 2020 semester to spring 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Rams will play 19 matches: 13 conference and six non-conference.

The roster looks different compared to last season’s, after losing eight key players to graduation and transfers. They have rebuilt the roster with 10 new players, including nine freshmen and one transfer from Memphis University, sophomore middle blocker Sabria Cooper.

The team has six returners who will be counted on to play big roles this season. Senior outside hitter Paula Neciporuka is now in her third season as a starter after earning A-10 all-academic team honors last season.

“I think it’s going to be really new and surprising for other teams,” said Neciporuka. “We are a new team and everyone has something to give to this team.”

The team also returns junior setter Dani Jo David, who ranked second on the team in assists last season with 4.82 per set.

According to Rogers, multiple freshmen will be given the opportunity to start right away. Key players in their 45-3 conference record, which was over a three-year span, have now graduated.

Among the graduates was middle blocker Jasmine Sneed, who was named

First-Team All-A-10, and is now playLast season, the Rams were first in the ing professionally for Khimik Yuzhny conference in hitting percentage, blocks, in Ukraine. opponent assists and second in opponent “It’s just like changing of the guard,” hitting percentage. Rogers is hoping newRogers said of the team’s standard of play. comers like freshman middle blockers Kylie “It really doesn’t change; the leadership Loftis, Knight and Cooper can continue the keeps coming in.” high standard on defense.

Rogers’ philosophy is that there’s The team will have several opportunino reason for a young player to wait to ties to show off their newly added talent make an impact. against the likes of Duke on Feb. 9 — cur“It’s your time right now, and you can be rently third in the ACC after a shortened great early,” Rogers said. “They’re taking on fall season — and James Madison on Feb. that initiative.”

22. They also face ODU on Jan. 23, who Despite the young age of the roster, Rog- are in their inaugural season, but the Feb. ers is impressed with the way the team has 19 rivalry matchup against Dayton is the handled a turbulent off-season of navigat- one Neciporuka has circled on her calendar. ing COVID-19 protocols.

“Definitely Dayton, they are our usu“Their maturity level is so high and their al opponents,” Neciporuka said about the handling of adversity is amazing,” Rogers matches she was most looking forward to. said. “It is making our culture a lot stronger here and I love being a part of it.”

The Rams will open their season at Liberty Cooper said she is excited to watch on Jan. 22 at 10 a.m. They will have their freshman middle blocker Jasmine Knight’s home opener against George Mason on Jan. defensive ability on the net.

31 at 1 p.m.

“She’s going to be a really good addition to the middle because she has a fast arm and strength,” Cooper said about Knight. “She is always up in transition; she is a very quick player.”

Cooper, a 6-foot-2-inch Oklahoma City native, will add big game experience from her time playing in the American Athletic Conference with Memphis University. She averaged 1.73 kills and .67 blocks per set while hitting .203.

“I’ve had experiences playing bigger teams,” Cooper said. “So I have a high standard and the ability to call people out and make sure they are doing what they Freshman outside hitter Addison Foote hits the ball at a are supposed to be doing.” volleyball practice. Photo courtesy of VCU Athletics

2020-21 Women’s Volleyball Schedule JANUARY JAN. 22 JAN. 23 JAN. 29 JAN. 31

@ Liberty @ Old Dominion @ Norfolk State vs. George Mason

FEBRUARY FEB. 5 FEB. 9 FEB. 12 FEB. 14 FEB. 19 FEB. 22 FEB. 26

vs. Saint Louis vs. Duke @ Duquesne @ George Washington vs. Dayton @ James Madison @ Davidson

MARCH MAR. 6 MAR. 12 MAR. 13 MAR. 19 MAR. 20 MAR. 24 MAR. 27

@ Dayton vs. Duquesne vs. Duquesne @ Saint Louis @ Saint Louis vs. Elon vs. Davidson

*Key matchups highlighted in red.

Infographic by Jayce Nguyen Source: VCU Athletics

New assistant coaches bring experience to volleyball staff NOAH FLEISCHMAN Sports Editor

Kevin Maureen Campbell remembers the Stuart C. Siegel Center pretty well. The last time she set foot on the court for a regular season volleyball match, she was on the visitor’s bench with N.C. State.

“We played here last year, and they beat our ass last year,” Campbell said, referencing the match in 2019. “I was so impressed with Siegel and the playing environment, the fans, the intensity of the team.”

The Rams knocked off the Wolfpack in convincing fashion, sweeping the power five program 3-0. Campbell said after coaching in the Stu, she knew VCU’s program was “awesome.”

This season, Campbell will join head coach Jody Rogers on the home bench in Richmond as one of two new assistant coaches to the staff, along with former Eastern Michigan assistant coach Peter Winters.

“My one skill, to be honest with you, is not winning volleyball games or playing volleyball, it’s actually just hiring people around me that do such an awesome job,” Rogers said. “So I’m really grateful that they are here and they work their asses off. …

They keep me grounded.”

Rogers overhauled her staff from a year ago, bringing in Campbell and Winters — two coaches with different backgrounds in the sport.

Campbell has coached volleyball at high-major programs like N.C. State and

Penn State, and helped build programs as a head coach from the ground up.

Under Campbell’s tenure as head coach, North Florida transitioned from D-II to D-I. The team made the conference tournament in the first two years the Osprey were eligible to compete in it.

“I’ve done everything in volleyball,” Campbell said. “That’s awesome because I can fill in wherever Jody [Rogers] needs me to fill in. And I’m like a team player, I will do whatever is needed.”

Campbell has also coached at Colorado, San Diego State, Georgia, Ohio and Winthrop.

Winters coached as an assistant at Eastern Michigan for three seasons. He worked his way up from the youth ranks prior to working with the Eagles, coaching at the Huron Valley Volleyball Club in Michigan.

Rogers encourages her assistant coaches to be flexible and involved in all aspects of the team, Winters said.

“As a staff here, Coach Rogers always wants us to always be where we’re strongest,” Winters said.

Campbell said while coaching at VCU, she wants to absorb as much as she can from Rogers.

Photo illustration by Jayce Nguyen

Assistant coaches Kevin Maureen Campbell and Peter Winters. Photos courtesy of VCU Athletics

“Jody [Rogers] is such a master at team chemistry, team culture, relationships, like getting the most out of her athlete,” Campbell said. “I’m trying to learn that as much as I can from Jody in that special skill set that she has.”

One thing Campbell said she noticed about Rogers was her coaching style.

“She is efficient,” Campbell said. “She gets the most out of her kids in game.”

In a normal season, Campbell said it would have been a lot of adjusting on the fly with a young team and two new assistant coaches. Since the fall season was delayed to this semester due to rising COVID-19 cases, new players on the team got to know each other better.

“They’ve had an opportunity to grow and learn under Jody, which would have had some hiccups, having to have played right away,” Campbell said. “We’re just so much more well prepared, both our athletes to play and our staff to be very good for them.”

Winters said although the team has faced several obstacles during the delayed start, there’s no excuse for the team to be complacent.

“We’re going to take advantage of those obstacles,” Winters said. “We’re going to keep moving forward.”

Volleyball kicks off the season on the road at Liberty on Jan. 22 at 10 a.m. The Rams’ home opener is on Jan. 31 against George Mason at 1 p.m.

Wed. January 20, 2020 7

On this day

In 1945, President Franklin D. Roosevelt was inaugurated for his fourth term, making him the only president to win more than two consecutive presidential elections.

VCUarts professor John Freyer transports his free naloxone bike across campus to promote awareness of opioid addiction and drug overdose reversal. Photo by Enza Marcy

VCU professor creates free naloxone bike to combat opioid crisis

CLAIRE DARCY Contributing Writer Since 2016, VCU students have flocked to a bright red bicycle stationed on campus for a hot cup of free coffee. The servers, however, offer more than advertised.

Created by John Freyer, an associate professor of cross disciplinary media, the free hot coffee bike is used in tandem with Rams in Recovery, VCU’s collegiate recovery program, to foster discussion about substance use and destigmatize addiction recovery.

“It’s a place for people to be in conversation,” Freyer said. “Because it takes a little while to make cups of coffee, it created a perfect window for us to train people on Narcan.”

The success of the free hot coffee bike inspired Freyer’s second project: the free naloxone bike. With this bike, Freyer and members of Rams in Recovery distribute Narcan, a common brand of the opioid overdose reversal drug naloxone. Administered as a nasal spray, the organization educates individuals on how to safely use the tool and how to recognize an opioid overdose.

The electric bike used for the program has pedal assist and a 60-mile range. Its wooden lockbox, engraved with the words “free naloxone bike,” can hold 50 boxes of Narcan, each containing two doses of naloxone.

The bike also features a wooden table on the back, and is equipped with a CPR dummy used for demonstrations on the table.

“The goal is to get Narcan into the hands of people that might encounter someone in overdose,” Freyer said. “If you’re waiting for 911 or waiting for the police, you might have waited too long, so to have people with

Narcan on them is to give an opportunity to revive that person.”

In 2018, Richmond had the highest number of fatal opioid overdoses in the Commonwealth with 91 deaths, according to the Virginia Department of Health.

That same year, there were 46,802 opioid overdose deaths nationwide, reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and 1,215 opioid overdose deaths within Virginia.

“We’re in the midst of a large-scale overdose epidemic that is largely driven by opioids, and we have been in this growing epidemic now for going on 30 years,” said Tom Bannard, program director of Rams in Recovery.

While a slight decline in the number and rate of fatal opioid overdoses was observed between 2017 and 2018, the numbers have begun to climb once more.

The CDC reported over 81,000 overdose deaths across the United States between June 2019 and May 2020, which the institute characterized in a press release as “the highest number of overdose deaths ever recorded in a 12-month period.”

Freyer credited recent increases in opioid use to the stresses of COVID-19 and social isolation.

“In the last 12 months, we’ve added to alltime highs in overdose deaths in the Richmond area,” Bannard said, “and my understanding is, across most of Virginia.”

The free naloxone bike was launched in March 2020. Despite near-immediate challenges presented by social distancing and stayat-home restrictions, Freyer worked with the Richmond City Medical Reserve Corps, or MRC, one of the project’s community collab-

orators, to create contactless trainings. The individual providing the training wears a mask and gives a socially distanced demonstration.

Despite its 60-mile range, the bike does not travel freely around the city. By invitation and request, the bike is ridden to events and locations from the Rams in Recovery clubhouse, as the drug needs to be picked up from the MRC in advance.

“It really encourages people to engage just out in general public,” Bannard said.

“When you’re out there on the bike, you can kind of set up anywhere and you can attract more accidental audiences.”

Freyer hopes to have the bike on campus more often in 2021. He expressed potential plans to bring it to campus locations, such as the Compass, regularly on Fridays — although no concrete schedule has been established yet.

The bike has two scheduled appearances for the end of the month. On Monday, the bike will be taken to the Executive Mansion to train Gov. Ralph Northam and first lady Pamela Northam in the use of naloxone.

On Jan. 29, the free naloxone and free hot coffee bikes will appear outside of Grace and Holy Trinity Episcopal Church on North Laurel street for the church’s Red Door Ministry weekly meal distribution.

Through the project’s efforts, Freyer said more than 500 VCU students, faculty and staff have been trained in opioid overdose recognition and the use of naloxone.

“It’s part of a larger effort that is going on across the state and across the United States to distribute naloxone and get it in the hands of folks who use drugs, folks who love people who use drugs,” Bannard said.

John Freyer demonstrates the process for administering the opioid reversal drug, Narcan, on a CPR dummy. Photo by Enza Marcy

8 The Commonwealth Times

Left: Sculptor and painter Keith Ramsey utilizes his workshop to construct the free libraries, as well as other custom designed woodwork, metalworking and paintings. Right: Ramsey creates miniature wooden houses to provide a collection area of free books for the community. Photos by Enza Marcy

Richmond artist provides community spaces for free books EBONIQUE LITTLE Spectrum Editor

R

ICHMOND ARTIST KEITH RAMSEY said he found himself at a “literal crossroads” one day in 2013 on his way to work. He was heading toward Artspace Gallery to visit his personal studio space as normal, when he noticed an open door to a welding class.

The free little libraries house two shelves of books and are painted to reflect their surroundings. Photo by Enza Marcy

“The universe was like, ‘See what’s over here,’” Ramsey said. “And it changed my life — literally.”

After “developing his own style” through sculpture, Ramsey said the welding class at Art Works elevated his sculpting skills, allowing him to combine 3D objects without screws and nails. He learned how to weld within the next week and continued from there.

Today, welding and sculpting have become Ramsey’s full-time career. His passion has been thrown behind his series of “Not-So-Little Free Libraries,” where people can take books that spark their interest and provide some for community members, as well.

Ramsey was initially struck with the idea of making the libraries by a friend who wanted one of her own. The artist utilized scrap material in his friend’s garage, with a dollhouse serving as his inspiration.

The 1998 VCUarts graduate has completed three free libraries thus far and looks to complete his fourth one soon.

“I think it’s a great thing where people put what they feel like is a great book into these things because you get a hodgepodge of what people like and enjoy,” Ramsey said.

The libraries, which resemble a miniature house, take him about 24 to 30 hours to create depending on the design.

The artist starts by making a wooden box to create the interior, and then designs the roof and provides insulation so it’s watertight. Ramsey follows this step by incorporating shelves, designing the door and adding a plexiglass window. The process concludes once the exterior is painted.

His latest and most elaborate library is located at 1625 Hull St., next to the Mending Walls mural “The Power Is In The Will,”

by Richmond artists Heide Trepanier and Chris Visions.

Ramsey said he enjoys painting the libraries in different colors based on the location it will be placed, which is determined by the individual who asked for a library.

On the side of the library, steam spiraling from a locomotive is rendered in vibrant shades of blue, orange and green. The painting nods to the rushing blue waves seen in the mural. The library is also adorned with quotes about the importance of literature from authors such as Dr. Seuss and Ray Bradbury.

Painted in purple curved text, the Dr. Seuss quote reads, “The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”

With a garden surrounding the library, Trepanier said Ramsey’s library complements the space and furthers the artists’ mission of providing recreational spaces and parks to residents of the Blackwell and Manchester neighborhoods.

“By building a little library in there, you’re able to have a place where people can sit down, a place where people can look at the garden that was planted,” Trepanier said.

“And then they can look at the mural, and then they can pull out a book and keep it.”

Trepanier said it was important to her to contact Ramsey in particular because the central figure in the mural is a Nigerian goddess named Yemaya, who stands for strength and community. Trepanier wanted to continue developing the space through the use of Black art.

“I think that that was super important to allow artisans and artists and Black voices to be heard,” Trepanier said, “and it was kind of like a unifying force.”

Ramsey’s work itself is influenced by Melvin Edwards, an African American abstract metal sculptor. Like Edwards, Ramsey finds scrap materials and repurposes them for art.

“They could be anywhere from the junkyard out in Chesterfield or on the street in

the Fan,” Ramsey said. “It might show up in a piece of work.”

The artist said he has always admired people who created dollhouses. With his first version of the structure using materials he found, Ramsey wanted to make a more practical use for it.

From there, Ramsey said the project “snowballed” into a greater cause.

“I think it’s important because it’s a way to share experiences through books,” Ramsey said.

Those who request Ramsey to construct a library will typically help provide the books for the public as well.

Ramsey likes the libraries’ ability to spark new ideas, especially for those who may lack access to a library or bookstore.

From comic books to novels, Ramsey said there is something for everybody, and the libraries serve as a great method to share something nice with others.

“It’s not asking for anything. It’s a give and take,” Ramsey said. “So I think that’s a little bit what the world needs right now.”

A quote from renowned author Toni Morrison decorates the exterior of one of Keith Ramsey’s libraries.

Photo by Enza Marcy

Wed. January 20, 2020 9

VCUarts renames academic building to promote inclusion, students react EBONIQUE LITTLE Spectrum Editor Black Lives Matter protests last summer sparked VCU’s reckoning with a history tied to the Confederacy. As Confederate monuments and plaques are taken down across campus, new signage honoring more diverse figures are instated.

The Fine Arts Building, located at 1000 W. Broad St., will soon be renamed the Dr. Murry N. DePillars Building. The resolution began in 2017 after a white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, and was finally approved by the board of visitors in September.

“The protests this summer underscored our need to continue our commitment to a more diverse, inclusive and equitable School of the Arts,” said Teresa Engle, senior associate director of communications, in an email.

DePillars, who died in 2008, served as assistant dean of VCUarts beginning in 1971, and then as dean from 1976 until 1995. During his tenure, he nearly doubled student enrollment and expanded funding for the program.

“He provided the creative and intellectual foundation for Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Arts and is largely responsible for the school’s growth,” Engle said.

After receiving community input through interviews, group forums and presentations, VCU President Michael Rao led the Committee on Confederate Commemoration regarding the decision to remove exclusionary symbols while also recognizing distinguished figures in the university’s history like DePillars, Engle said.

Engle noted significant contributions DePillars made to the arts community as

VCUarts became a hub for performing arts facilities, jazz festivals and fashion shows.

“Dr. DePillars also had the ability to engage with and bring together diverse communities, elevating one of VCU’s core values,” Engle said. “He ensured a climate of trust, honesty and integrity, where all people are valued and differences are recognized as an asset.”

I think it’s good that Black artists are getting the right representation that we need to have.

However, I don’t know if it’s like serving them or serving the community by just having their name on a building with nothing being done under that.”

Maya Mangum, painting and printmaking senior Outside of his service to VCU, DePillars was a renowned artist whose work highlighted social injustice and African traditions. His art was featured in museums such as the Paul Robeson Cultural Center, the African American Pavilion of the World Expo and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.

VCUarts kinetic imaging senior Lauren Baines said she was compelled to research some of the former dean’s artwork after the announcement of the name change. With the new commemoration of DePillars, Baines believes this is an important step for VCUarts.

“Since that’s like a prominent building for VCU, I think it definitely gives the artist this recognition that he deserves,” Baines said.

Prior to this recognition, senior painting and printmaking student Maya Mangum said she was unfamiliar with both DePillars and his work, despite most of her classes being held inside the formerly named Fine Arts Building.

Mangum said she is pleased with the change but looks forward to bigger steps VCUarts can make in the future to continue this trajectory of greater inclusion.

“I think it’s good that Black artists are getting the right representation that we need to have,” Mangum said. “However, I don’t know if it’s like serving them or serving the community by just having their name on a building with nothing being done under that.”

The date for the new signage is yet to be determined, but Engle said VCUarts is planning a series of virtual events that will feature speakers who were influenced

by DePillars.

“Dr. DePillars believed strongly that the arts empowered communities,” Engle said, “and his work as an artist, educator and advocate brought a very diverse public together.”

UPCOMING EVENTS See something

WED. 01/20 Israeli Film Festival

The 11th Annual Israeli Film Festival will provide viewers a greater understanding of Israeli culture through award-winning narrative and documentary films. This virtual film festival will take place Jan. 20-31 on the Weinstein Jewish Community Center’s website. The films’ descriptions and ticketing information are also included.

Times vary, $12 per film or $65 for all-film pass

FRI. 01/22 Drive-in movie night

“Groundhog Day,” the classic 1993 romantic comedy starring Bill Murray, will return to the big screen during an event at the Independence Golf Club.

Attendees can also purchase refreshments and meals from the on-site pizzeria, Tavern 19. To purchase tickets, visit the event’s page on eventbrite.com.

6 p.m., Independence Golf Club, 600 Founders Bridge Blvd. $20

Do something

THURS. 01/21 Beginner Jazz Dance Class

RVA Swing Studio hosts weekly jazz dance classes, as they seek to foster a growing appreciation for the history and origins of jazz music. Instructor Erica Vess will lead classes via Zoom, and no experience is necessary. Attendees should register online at rvaswing.com to receive the link to join. For more information, email rvaswing@gmail.com.

7 p.m., Tickets start at $10

FRI. 01/22 Self-Guided Richmond History Tour The Valentine offers free, self-guided walking tours of varying areas of the city, such as Shockoe Bottom, the Fan and Richmond Cemeteries. Participants can explore at their own pace, with the tours including route details, directions and the history of certain sites along the way, like monuments, warehouses and murals.

Information for the tours can be found on The Valentine’s website, thevalentine. org. For any questions, email eduction@ thevalentine.org.

Locations vary.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Learn something

THURS. 01/21 China-Burma-India Theater

The Virginia War Memorial will explore the China-Burma-India Theater, a U.S. military designation where World War II battles occurred. At this free lecture, some of the men who were there will speak and present archived war materials. Register at vawarmemorial.org to receive the Zoom link. For more information, contact Morgan Guyer, the assistant director of education, at morgan.guyer@dvs.virginia.gov.

10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

THURS. 01/21 VCU Libraries Community Zoom

In this installment titled “Removing Barriers to Share Important Stories: The VPM + ICA Community Media Center,” African American studies professor Chioke I’Anson will discuss the free recording studio at VCU. Participants can register for this free, virtual discussion by emailing the VCU Libraries Development Office at libdevelop@vcu.edu for the Zoom link.

10:30 - 11 a.m.

Home to art students within the craft and material studies, painting and printmaking, and sculpture and extended media programs, the Fine Arts Building will be renamed the Dr. Murry N. DePillars Building to further push the university’s inclusion efforts. Photo by Enza Marcy

Have suggestions for the events calendar? Contact spectrum@commonwealthtimes.org

10 The Commonwealth Times

Quote of the week

“The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new.”

— Socrates

Illustration by Noelle Hepworth

New year, new president, same rules TAGWA SHAMMET Opinions Editor

I

NAUGURATION DAY IS FINALLY here. Our country donned a new presidential term on Wednesday, which for many means hope of a new era. We haven’t had the greatest four years under former President Donald Trump — however exciting they may have been — so there is an expectation for change.

With the Trump administration finally meeting its end, there are still nerves riddling the stomachs of Americans as we wait to see what President Joe Biden’s administration will bring. Of course, we can all lay out our anticipations for the new president; a lovely, drama-free term. But as the year 2020 presented, a no-fuss presidency seems unimaginable.

I presume Biden will honor his campaign trail promises and control the COVID-19

pandemic in our country. Many of us yearn to go back to the normalcy of life and leave our homes to be with loved ones without fear of infection; to have classes back on campus and to live a vibrant college experience; to stabilize the economy and prevent another recession.

Yet, the Biden administration’s COVID-19 relief plan seems entirely too simple. Combating the mistakes of the Trump era, Biden plans to aid in the distribution of vaccinations. Unlike his predecessor, Biden does not promise that the vaccine alone will help end the pandemic.

He understands that we must continue to follow social distancing guidelines and other regulations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

However, that’s easier said than done.

I spoke to John Aughenbaugh, assistant professor of political science at VCU, about his own expectations for the new term.

Aughenbaugh, who holds a doctorate in public administration, said Biden may use cooperative federalism to handle COVID-19.

Aughenbaugh described the concept in simple terms: If the federal government would like states to do certain things, they must provide these same states with some incentives. In the case of COVID-19, states hold the power of health. Therefore, it is up to Biden’s administration and Congress to put up some financial reward for states in order to get them on the same page.

For example, if Florida doesn’t implement mandatory masks, but New York does, we would still hit a setback. Should a Floridian make their way up north, their lack of a mask poses a threat to those staying safe.

Meaning, the only way our nation stands a chance against the virus is if all states fall in line — which, Aughenbaugh said, would require Biden to provide hefty compensation that would live up to the states’ needs.

The pandemic is, unfortunately, not Biden’s sole issue. Whilst we all know the election was not stolen — and in fact, fairly won — 74 million Americans still voted for Trump. A major concern of polarization in this nation cannot be ignored. We saw the repercussions of such polarity during the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol building.

Aughenbaugh warns that Biden needs to be aware of the pressure he is facing. While both houses of Congress are controlled by the Democrats, everything comes on a spectrum.

“It is a new presidential administration, and historically, a new president has a honeymoon period,” Aughenbaugh said. “However, that kind of honeymoon period has become a less frequent political phenomenon.”

Biden will have a bit of leeway from both parties in an effort to promote partisanship in the new administration.

That being said, he will face some resistance from his own party.

Progressive Democrats will expect immediate and stark change, while moderate Democrats might find themselves deciding votes. It is up to Biden to manage and level out the situation in order to not only please both political parties, but also both ends of his own party.

Biden seems like he has significant pull in our government, thanks to his role as vice president under former President Barack Obama. But Aughenbaugh says Biden simply does not have as much political influence and power as we might think.

“I am urging caution to Democrats,” Aughenbaugh said. “While many Americans just want to be done with Trump and move on to Biden, I’m unsure Biden has much political capital to pursue a robust agenda.”

With his sway and domination under question, Biden is going to have a ways to go to push his agenda and policies through.

As we venture out into both the new year and the new administration, the same rules and standards other presidents have been expected to meet will be applied to Biden. Whether he meets them or not is all up to him.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW: Returning to campus and COVID-19 ISHAAN NANDWANI Contributing Writer It’s a new year and a new semester. Despite the political turmoil that has permeated the past few weeks, I’m determined to make 2021 the best year possible.

Unfortunately, COVID-19 is still a significant danger to our community, and it is essential to be mindful of this threat as we navigate the new semester.

For those of us who returned to campus last semester, we’ve already seen how much our college lives have changed. Many of us faced challenges adapting to virtual learning, limiting our interactions with friends and experiencing overwhelming Zoom fatigue for the first time.

As time has passed, most college students are likely desperate to return to normalcy. I know I certainly am. I understand the desire for human interaction, but the fact remains that we cannot ignore the implications of our actions when we fail to follow these basic guidelines.

Just this past week alone, I’ve seen countless Instagram posts of friends gathering together in large numbers, maskless,

and traveling on exuberant vacations to the Bahamas and Hawaii. I was shocked at how people were openly defying state health guidelines and shamelessly posting it all as if nothing has changed in the world.

As young college students, we must do our part to protect the most vulnerable members of our diverse Richmond community — many of whom are especially at-risk for the virus, including the elderly, uninsured and people of color. By choosing to satisfy your own interests during this very much alive pandemic, you are saying these lives simply do not matter to you.

We are entering the most virulent surge of the virus, with cases in the commonwealth rising to over 450,000 and 18,110 in the last week, according to the Virginia Department of Health. As President Michael Rao stated in his most recent email, cases are “four times higher than at the beginning of the fall semester.” Therefore, the COVID situation on campus this semester will be even worse than in the fall, with nearly all classes held virtually these first couple of months.

As we return to campus this spring, it is essential that we follow guidelines from

Illustration by Lauren Johnson

VCU and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Those parties you were planning on going to? Skip them. Those plans to attend rallies or other superspreader events? Cancel them. Be sure to complete your daily health checks, communicate symptoms to Student Health Services and keep up with the university’s COVID-19 dashboard. To beat this virus as fast as possible, it’s going to take all of our collective efforts.

For those who are simply exhausted, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

VCU has begun to distribute the vaccine in waves, with students in clinical roles having priority to get the vaccine. To all students,

I urge you to sign up for an appointment to get the vaccine when you have the chance. You will receive an email from your department chair notifying you once it is your turn. Building immunity within our community is essential to slowing the spread of the virus and preventing yourself from getting sick.

If you have any questions about this new vaccine, the changes in your classes this semester or practicing appropriate safety guidelines, I encourage you to reach out to your advisor and your questions will be brought up to faculty.

Stay healthy, friends, and good luck this semester.

Wed. January 20, 2020 11

THE CT STAFF EXECUTIVE EDITOR Andrew Ringle ringlea@commonwealthtimes.org

Together by Sarah Brady

MANAGING EDITOR Iman Mekonen mekonenib@commonwealthtimes.org COPY EDITOR Rachel Rivenbark rivenbarkrs@commonwealthtimes.org NEWS EDITOR Katharine DeRosa news@commonwealthtimes.org SPORTS EDITOR Noah Fleischman sports@commonwealthtimes.org SPECTRUM EDITOR Ebonique Little spectrum@commonwealthtimes.org OPINIONS EDITOR Tagwa Shammet opinions@commonwealthtimes.org PHOTO EDITOR Enza Marcy photography@commonwealthtimes.org AUDIENCE EDITOR Sarah Elson elsonsp@commonwealthtimes.org ILLUSTRATIONS EDITOR Lauren Johnson illustrations@commonwealthtimes.org STAFF WRITERS Anya Sczerzenie, News

VCU STUDENT MEDIA CENTER DESIGN EDITOR Andy Caress designers@vcustudentmedia.com

Another Virtual Semester by Carleigh Ross

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Jayce Nguyen Ni Sang Raymond Liu Gabrielle Wood designers@vcustudentmedia.com AD SALES ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Kofi Roberts advertising@vcustudentmedia.com WEB MANAGER Chranjitpandian Murugapandi web@vcustudentmedia.com DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Tibebe Gebiso distribution@vcustudentmedia.com TEMPORARY EDITORIAL ADVISER Mark Robinson robinsonmw@vcu.edu CREATIVE MEDIA MANAGER Mark Jeffries mjeffries@vcu.edu

Tired by Ren Newport

SALES & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Dominique Lee leeds3@vcu.edu (804) 827-1642 OFFICE MANAGER Owen Martin martinso@vcu.edu

ABOUT THE CT The Commonwealth Times is the award-winning independent student newspaper at VCU, since 1969.

The CT staff maintains all editorial and operations discretion. There is absolutely no prior review by the public, university or VCU Student Media Center administration or staff. The Executive Editor writes and manages the Operations Budget.

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

Unsigned editorials represent the collective opinion of The CT staff.

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

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

12 The Commonwealth Times

Los Angeles Times Crossword Puzzle LOVE IS ...

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Sudoku

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1/15/19 Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit, 1 to 9.

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1/20/21

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