The Commonwealth Times; Oct. 31, 2018

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VOL. 60, NO. 11 | OCTOBER 31, 2018

Praying for Pittsburgh Story on page 2

Vigil attendees gathered to show support for the Jewish community in light of the violence at the Tree of Life Congregation in Pittsburgh. Photo by Erin Edgerton

COMMENCEMENT CANCELLED VCU abandons May 2019 ceremony after failing to secure venue

Story on page 3

flickr commons

NEWS Bol Gai Deng 4

SPORTS Basketball exhibition 5

SPECTRUM Hellboy 9

OPINIONS Letter to Michael Myers 13

2 The Commonwealth Times

Stories of the week

national: Eleven people died and nine were injured Saturday after an anti-semitic gunman opened fire at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. international: Sahle-Work Zewde, diplomat and United Nations special representative to the African Union, was appointed Ethiopia’s first female president Oct. 25.

Richmonders mourn, memorialize victims of anti-Semitic synagogue shooting LOGAN REARDON Staff Writer A vigil was held Tuesday at the Weinstein Jewish Community Center for the people killed in the Oct. 27 mass shooting at a Pittsburgh synagogue.

Considered the deadliest attack on the Jewish community on U.S. soil, 11 people were killed and nine injured when Pittsburgh resident Robert Bowers attacked the Tree of Life synagogue. Bowers was charged Monday with 40 federal and state charges, including 11 counts of use of a firearm to commit murder during a crime of violence.

U.S. Attorney Scott Brady said federal prosecutors are pursuing the death penalty in Bowers’ case.

Jonathan Revenson, a senior in the urban and regional studies program at VCU, was born and raised in the Jewish community.

He said he was “devastated that this could have happened anywhere.”

“It just seemed so out of the blue,” Revenson said. “When times are dark, rely on your community ‘cause they’ll hold you up.”

Tuesday’s vigil primarily focused not on the increase in hate crimes, but the unity shown by communities in times of sorrow.

In a study by the Center for Hate and Extremism at the University of California, San Bernardino, 2017 had the highest number of hate crimes in more than a decade, despite a decrease in overall crime. Specifi-

Tonight we are not Jews, we are not Muslims, we are not Catholic or Baptist.

Tonight we are one family leaning on and supporting each other.”

Ellen Renee Adams, President of the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond

Holocaust survivor Jay Ipson attended Tuesday’s vigil. Photo by Erin Edgerton cally, hate crimes committed against people of the Jewish faith accounted for 54 percent of all religious-based hate crimes.

Holocaust survivor and vigil attendee Jay Ipson said tragic events like the mass shooting affect the entire community.

“We are a united community here,” Ipson said. “What hurts one, hurts all, and we’ve learned through experience and time that we all bleed red.”

Cantor Dara Rosenblatt of the Temple Beth-El performed “A Walk to Caesarea” — commonly known as “Eli, Eli” — a Jewish song often played on Holocaust Memorial Day. She said seeing everyone in the community show their support at the vigil was “quite moving.”

“It was really beautiful to see all of the community coming together from all across the religious spectrum,” Rosenblatt said.

“Not just from other synagogues, but from other religious affiliations.”

President of the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond Ellen Renee Adams said it is important for members of the Jewish community to “care for and support each other.” She added that the religion “gains strength from [its] broader family.”

“Tonight we are not Jews, we are not

Muslims, we are not Catholic or Baptist,” Adams said. “Tonight we are one family leaning on and supporting each other.”

First lady of Virginia Pamela Northam, Attorney General of Virginia Mark Herring and others spoke to the massive crowd.

Northam said the shooting in Pittsburgh was a “violation of all of our humanity.”

“We must have the courage to continue to reject bigotry, racism, to seek peace and reconciliation,” Northam said. “Hate has no place here.”

Herring said that, while “hate is turning deadly with frightening frequency” in the U.S., people should not give into cynicism.

While the number of mass shootings in the U.S. is roughly the same as in the 1980s and ‘90s, mass shootings in the 21st century have become more deadly. Out of the 28 mass shootings of 10 or more people beginning from records in the 1940s, more than half have been committed in the last 18 years.

“Indeed, as people of faith, we have a special opportunity to continue carrying messages of hope and healing, love and A list of the 11 victims of the mass unity,” Herring said. “I know many of you shooting was on display at the vigil. have experienced fear when you worship Photo by Erin Edgerton and live your faith. Please look around tonight and find strength.”

Trump’s gender definition would remove protections for transgender people SARAH ELSON Contributing Writer

nation “based on gender identity, including transgender status” would not be tolerated under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of JESSICA CRUZ 1964. The act protects employees from disContributing Writer crimination on the basis of race, color and religion, among other characteristics.

The Trump administration is attemptTo do so, sweeping alterations to Title ing to redefine gender as strictly biological IX — which protects people from sex-based — a move which could lead to the erasure discrimination in federally-funded educaof federal recognition of the 1.4 million tional programs — and the aforementioned Americans who identify as transgender.

Title VII would be required.

The planned changes were leaked in a State governments can allot more civil memo to The New York Times. According protections than the federal government if to the Times, the memo — spearheaded they feel the federal government has not by the Department of Health and Human done enough. VCU political science profesServices — states, “sex means a person’s sor John Aughenbaugh cited one Supreme status as male or female based on im- Court case as an example. mutable biological traits identifiable by or “Some state courts, like Hawaii and Masbefore birth.” sachusetts, relying upon state constitutionIf the alterations are made, they would al language, recognized same-sex marriage negate a 2014 memo stating sex discrimi- equality years before the U.S. Supreme

Court did in the Obergefell v. Hodges case,” Aughenbaugh said.

Moving toward a binary definition of gender would remove legal protections for people whose genders do not fit the societal norm.

Students from the Queer & Trans People of Color Collective at VCU said they were not surprised by the recent memo issued by the Trump administration.

“I think of this more as a scare tactic because Trump has been systematically working since he got to office to eradicate rights for trans and nonbinary folks,” said senior Khudai Tanveer of the QTPOC leadership board. “This memo is not anything that he has not already previously said.”

As a result of the ongoing threats against transgender rights, alongside protests and rallies, the hashtag #WontBeErased was created online.

“With any and every issue, social media can both being detrimental and empowering to social issues and the issue of the definition of gender is no exception,” said VCU sophomore Savannah Kent. “However, ultimately I think that social media has helped bring more awareness to this issue than there would have been.”

Kent said social media also makes people aware of protests and allows them to “hear the stories of the transgender community.”

Freshman Anthony Belotti has been working closely with Amnesty International at VCU to promote awareness and change in light of the memo.

“Marches and rallies are great,” Belotti said. “But when it comes down to [it], making sure that we are even holding our local officials accountable because they can also pass legislation.”

Wed. October 31, 2018 3

University unable to find site for spring graduation ceremony ZACH JOACHIM Executive Editor GEORGIA GEEN Managing Editor VCU will not host a university-wide commencement ceremony for May 2019 graduates after the administration failed to secure a venue.

The Richmond Coliseum has hosted spring commencement for 46 years.

But the venue is not booking events past December.

President Rao wrote in a letter to students and faculty explaining the administration’s decision. “We explored several alternative venues across the region, but all were unavail- The Richmond Coliseum will not book events beyond December. Photo by Erin Edgerton able because of cost, size or access,� Rao wrote. “This is going to serve as a drumbeat Senior political science major Caitlin A protest was planned the day of the event to a larger protest against the broad- Poos said she is frustrated by the decision. announcement for Wednesday afternoon. er administrative master plan of irrespon“The fact that I hurried through college Protest organizer Kaylin Cecchini, a junior sible spending and commencement can- and now I don’t even get a true ceremony double majoring in political science and cellation,� Cechini said in regard to the is super upsetting,� Poos said. “Plus, it felt philosophy, said the decision is insensitive ONE VCU draft plan slated to go before like VCU’s response was basically saying, to the graduating class. the board of visitors in December. “We ‘oh, well.’� “This cancellation feels like a slap in want VCU to live up to their slogan of Though individual department ceremothe face to the class of 2019 and their ac- ‘One VCU.’ The university has to reinstate nies will still take place — which the unicomplishments and hard work, as well as the commencement regardless of cost.� versity described as “well-attended� in its the time and effort they have put forth VCU tweeted Tuesday that funds which statement — Poos said only attending the into our community,� Cecchini said. “This would have been spent on the univer- smaller ceremonies will affect the number is a moment we all work toward, where sity-wide ceremony will instead be used of family members she can invite. She said we are able to graduate in front of our to “augment the college and school cere- she will not be able to bring her grandloved ones and experience the pride of monies to ensure they meet a consistent parents or boyfriend; only her parents and this accomplishment.� standard of excellence.� This includes mak- siblings will be in attendance.

The protest was scheduled to take place ing the official university commencement “On a larger scale, [the commencement in front of the president’s office at 910 W. program — which names each graduate cancellation] reflects the administration’s Franklin St. from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., ac- — available at every ceremony, among other continued lack of consideration for the cording to its Facebook event page. “enhancements.� students’ welfare,� Cecchini said.

VCU COMMUNITY REACTS ONLINE TO COMMENCEMENT CANCELLATION: I’ll admit compared to the amount of people that graduate, not a lot of people go to commencement, BUT it’s crazy for VCU to only give a certain amount of tickets for some departments AND get rid of commencement. @Kaynificent I’m so hurt VCU is not having a commencement graduation ceremony like damn. I worked hard for this shit man, disappointed. I really wanted to walk across that stage smh!!! @McCudi_ This ABSOLUTELY ridiculous!!! And not even an option, all I gotta say is y’all have until May to Figure it out @oldhamsydney1

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Mom of a 2019 grad here. I am extremely disappointed in your decision. We’ve lived through 4 years of tuition increases and you can’t try harder to find a venue? @whitneybwest So disappointing!!!! I was so proud to graduate from VCU with my friends but now each one of us will have to graduate from each department separately. I’m sure there’s another way! @itsmalaz_e This is terrible. Very disappointing in the school I chose to attend and graduate from. You have thousands of dollars of mine, as well as money I’ll now owe back to loaners for the next x number of years, yet you can’t afford to grant students a commencement ceremony? Very sad. @Wade_Wallace3

Professors, journalism school condemn murder of Saudi journalist amid investigation LOGAN REARDON Staff Writer

journalists in the U.S. — such as the Capital Gazette shooting in June — The stor y of Jamal dropped the country two Khashoggi has circulated places in the 2018 World the news cycle for weeks Press Freedom Index to No. — the Virginia resident 45 of 180 countries. The and Washington Post conmost recent instance with tributor walked into the mail bomber Cesar Sayoc, Saudi Consulate in Turkey who sent bombs to CNN’s Oct. 2 and was gruesomeNew York and Atlanta ly dismembered by Saudi headquarters, happened afoperatives. ter the index was released.

The Richard T. RobJamal Khashoggi.

Khashoggi’s criticism ertson School of Media Photo courtesy of against Saudi Arabia and and Culture at VCU conWikimedia Commons others close to the regime demned the killing Oct. 19. prompted multiple attempts The school also backed a letter sent from to suppress his voice. According to The Inthe Society of Professional Journalists dependent, Khashoggi was banned by Sauto the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in di authorities in December 2016 from TV Saudi Arabia, “urging a full investigation� appearances or publications “for criticizing of the situation.

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump.�

Jeff South, associate professor of journalAccording to The New York Times, beism at VCU, said the Khashoggi situation fore his death, Khashoggi and other critics “underscores the fact that journalism is un- of the Saudi regime were “victims of a cyberder attack throughout the world.� bullying campaign� by Saudi “Twitter trolls.� “If what everyone alleges has indeed hapDespite the treatment of Khashoggi by pened, it shows how brutal some govern- the Saudi regime, VCU doctoral student ments are in pursuing their critics, including and Saudi journalist Wedyan Kattan said journalists,� South said. the western media’s perception of journalThe increase in threats and attacks on ism in Saudi Arabia is often times “nega-

tively exaggerated.� “It doesn’t seem as you think here — it’s not the hell,� Kattan said. “Any journalist can have that amount of risk.�

Salman has been praised by many as a “progressive figure� in Saudi Arabia — last year, he struck down a law prohibiting women from driving.

Just 10 years ago, men and women in the journalism field were separated, Kattan said, but now with Salman as the crown prince, she said he is “doing things previous rulers could not do.�

Christopher Saladino, a political science professor at VCU, said the Saudi monarch “wears two masks.� “There’s incentive to reform that are for the good of the state, for the good of the regime and for the good of the people,� Saladino said. “On the other hand, my reading of it is that there’s significant evidence that he is reforming on mostly low-hanging fruit — easy stuff, stuff that’s not going to ruffle the feathers too terribly much.�

Continuous changes by the Saudi government in the story of Khashoggi’s death — going from suggesting to Bloomberg he left the consulate after “a few minutes or one hour,� to a recent statement that his death was “premeditated� — have pointed to Salman’s attitude toward dissenters.

Due to extensive U.S.-Saudi relations, experts are skeptical if sanctions will be forced on Saudi Arabia if the investigation finds the regime responsible for Khashoggi’s death.

Kattan said she believes Saudi statements saying Salman did not know about Khashoggi’s murder and that the operatives allegedly responsible for Khashoggi’s death acted without the regime’s orders.

Others, like Saladino, said it is hard to believe the Saudi government’s claims. “Formally, [Saudi Arabia’s recent statement] is so extremely fluid that it would be foolish I think to assume that what we heard today was a bottom line of truth because it’s a fairly weak statement,� Saladino said.

The Robertson School said it supports its students and current journalists in their attempts to “hold people in power accountable and shine light on information that the public needs to know.� “We are appalled by today’s climate of hostility toward journalists around the world,� the Robertson School statement read. “As we prepare our students to enter the journalism profession — to report news accurately and fairly and to engage readers and viewers in discussing issues important to them — we stand united beside our students as well as current journalists.�

4 The Commonwealth Times

Protesters, residents view pipeline as environmental injustice CHRIS WOOD Contributing Writer Protesters and residents of Union Hill in Buckingham County are frustrated by the government’s approval of Dominion Energy plans to establish a second compressor station in the area, a decision they consider a civil injustice and environmental racism.

Much of the land in Union Hill, including the second Atlantic Coast Pipeline compressor site, has been passed down from generation to generation, originally acquired by the Freedmen’s Bureau.

“There are a lot slave burials — some of them are unmarked, but more and more are being identified,” said Chad Oba, co-chairman of Friends of Buckingham and resident of Union Hill. “So there’s a lot of historical significance here and they’re supposed to look at that and they didn’t.”

Oba added that he is worried about the environmental impact the compressor would have on the community — noting the residents do not trust their board of supervisors.

“That was the one place where locality could have stopped this dead,” Oba said. “It was clear that people made a lot of good reasons why we shouldn’t have it here and it was really a large majority of people and they passed it anyways.”

ACP Media Relations Manager Aaron Ruby said the surveys of the site did not find “evidence of any graves, burial grounds or other cultural resources.”

“We share their concern for these sites, and we’ve taken meaningful steps to protect them,” Ruby said.

Mary Finley-Brook, professor at University of Richmond and member of the Advisory Council on Environmental Justice (ACEJ), said the pipeline issue is partly due to environmental racism — and the subsequent burden on low-income people and communities of color, she said.

Finley-Brook also said the statistics ACP used in its federal permit application are not necessarily applicable to Union Hill community. According to the 12-page letter sent to Governor Ralph Northam from the ACEJ, of the 99 households within two miles of the proposed compressor station, 85 percent of residents are African-American.

Oba also said Dominion Energy submitted its application for the construction permit to the DEQ — which was rejected multiple times. The DEQ ultimately

Residents of Buckingham donned masks to call attention to the air pollution associated with the pipeline. Photo courtesy of Nat Linton worked with Dominion Energy to have the permit passed.

“The first proposal never would have passed,” Finley-Brook said. “And DEQ, instead of rejecting it, just continued to feed Dominion Energy the information they would need and how much they would need to do to squeeze by on different levels.”

With the ACEJ being the only government agency in Union Hill speaking in favor of the residents’ interests, Oba said there is a high degree of helplessness the community feels against the government and private corporations.

In the ACEJ letter to Northam, the advisory council listed multiple civil rights and environmental violations associated with the ACP — ultimately recommending the governor suspend the air permit.

“We’re also using some of the strongest emission controls ever used by the industry,” Ruby, ACP’s media relations manager, said.

“Most air emissions at the station will be 50 to 80 percent lower than emissions at other compressor stations in Virginia.”

According to the advisory council, the proposed compressor station would release 51.6 tons of carbon monoxide and

8.30 tons of sulphur dioxide, which could contribute to hypoxic-related illnesses and acid rain, respectively.

“Natural gas produces half the carbon emissions of coal and 80 to 90 percent less sulfur and nitrogen,” Ruby said. “By replacing coal with cleaner natural gas, we’ve lowered our carbon footprint by more than 40 percent since 2005.”

In Finley-Brook’s research, she and her team found that “health complaints of populations living near gas infrastructure include respiratory problems, eye and skin irritations and elevated cancer rates.” They also noted that, “permits seldom consider cumulative exposures from other proximate sources of pollution.”

In 2015, the Blue Ridge Environmental Defense League filed a 20-page civil lawsuit against county officials after granting a special use permit, saying the Buckingham County Administrator Rebecca Carter signed and submitted the Local Governing Body Certification Form to the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality — one year before the Planning Commission held a public hearing on the matter.

In Northam’s one-page letter to the ACEJ rejecting their recommendations, he stated the Virginia DEQ has held a number of public information sessions in the Union Hill community. However, Finley-Brook said there was no meeting ever held at Union Hill and that the only sessions held were at the Buckingham Courthouse and Buckingham County Middle School.

“I was at every one of those meetings. I know when they were and where they were,” Finley-Brook said. “The only meeting that happened in Union Hill was not a meeting, it was a community tour.”

Finley-Brook said the “tour” of Union Hill only included two community residents and Virginia DEQ representatives, including Director of Air Division Michael Dowd, Air Toxics Coordinator Patrick Corbett and Manager in the Office of Air Permitting Tamera Thompson. The meeting lasted approximately 20 minutes.

It has been more than four years since Dominion Energy submitted its first proposal, with the Virginia DEQ helping them along the entire process. Union Hill residents who are against the ACP have one month to prepare a counterproposal.

“We have to go out and beg for help, get pro bono help, or raise funds and pay people,” Oba said. “We get 30 days.”

Department hosts talk with South-Sudan presidential candidate LOGAN REARDON Staff Writer

Alumnus Bol Gai Deng is running for president of his home country South Sudan. Photo by Tatyana Bailey

The Department of African American Studies at VCU hosted a book signing and talk Friday for Bol Gai Deng, a VCU alumnus running for president of South Sudan.

The event promoted “Bol Gai Deng: Legacy of an African Freedom Fighter,” a collection of stories describing Deng’s escape from slavery and his life in the U.S. as a refugee.

Speakers during the event included Deng, his campaign manager Donald Blake, African American studies department chair Shawn Utsey, political science associate professor Bill Newmann and former NBC12 anchor Andrea McDaniel, who authored the book.

This is the first book McDaniel has written and published. She said she chose to write about Deng’s story because “it needed to be told.”

“We’re talking about a lot of horrible things that happened,” McDaniel said.

“He’s glossed them over, but he’s been through hell and back — and he’s the most optimistic person that you will ever ever meet — and all he cares about is his people in South Sudan.”

Utsey has known Deng since he was a student at VCU. He said Deng’s “commitment to his country and village” has always impressed him.

“Deng [has] never forsaken his people,” Utsey said. “He’s always been committed to try and reach back and make Sudan a better place.”

Newmann was one of Deng’s professors at VCU. Newmann said, through stories Deng told in class, he was able to “get a picture of the life he had led,” and was “impressed by his perseverance.”

“This is amazing because he shouldn’t be here,” Newmann said. “He shouldn’t be anywhere at this point, and yet he’s persevered

through all of this.”

Deng has always had high praise for VCU and said the school was a place that changed him — and continues to change many students today.

“VCU is a great place to be,” Deng said.

“You don’t know this now, but when you get out, you will be a different person.”

Deng said they are planning on having another book signing event in the future.

The current president of South Sudan, Salva Kiir Mayardit, has been in office since 2011 — before the people of South Sudan voted for independence, splitting the nation in two.

Voting for the presidential election of South Sudan was originally supposed to be held in 2015, but the South Sudanese parliament voted to amend the country’s transitional constitution from 2011 to extend their terms to 2018. It is currently unclear when elections will be held.

Wed. October 31, 2018 5

Stat of the week

Indianapolis Colts tight end Mo Alie-Cox recorded his first career touchdown against the Oakland Raiders. AlieCox caught the ball one-handed after a 75-yard drive.

Sophomore forward Marcus Santos-Silva played 18 minutes Tuesday and shot 41.7 percent from the field. Photo by Jon Mirador.

Curry leads Rams over UVA-Wise

NOAH FLEISCHMAN Staff Writer

Simms, who made a 3-pointer from the corner, during the big first half run.

Men’s Basketball defeated UVA-Wise Back-to-back blocks by Rams 87-41 Tuesday night in its final preseason from Jenkins and redshirt-sophotune up behind freshman guard KeShawn more forward Corey Douglas got Curry’s game-high 15 points in only 15 the crowd on their feet. minutes played.

Curry made a loud entrance to the Siegel Center, scoring five points within 14 seconds. He was fouled shooting a layup, converted the bucket and hit the free throw for the 3-point play. Curry then Coach says we are stole the ball after the inbounds an army, We’re sent in pass from the Cavaliers and waves and we will keep capped it off with a monster dunk.

“He’s a really good key factor on coming every couple the top of the diamond and you minutes sending new are going to see a lot more flashy guys in, fresh legs, and dunks by this kid,” said sophomore forward Marcus Santos-Silcreating havoc.” va. “He’s really good.”

Corey Douglas, redshirtThe Black and Gold took a 45sophomore forward 21 lead into the halftime break as Santos-Silva led the team with “Tonight just showed a sneak peek, he’s a eight points and seven rebounds. really good player,” junior guard De’Riante VCU opened up the second half Jenkins said of Curry. the same way as the first 20 minThe Rams jumped out to an early four- utes — the Rams went on a 10-0 point lead in the first half. They then added run in the first 7:35 of the half. to the lead with an 11-0 run that spanned Redshirt-senior forward Mimore than six minutes of play. chael Gilmore gave the Black Freshman guard P. J. Byrd made a big and Gold faithful something to steal right after he entered the game and get loud about in the second half Freshman guard KeShawn Curry played 15 minutes in the dished it to redshirt-junior guard Mike’L as he recorded two blocks in less exhibition game against UVA-Wise. Photo by Jon Mirador.

than a minute for the Rams.

The Rams kept their foot on the gas as they went on another run, outscoring the Cavaliers 20-6 over a six minute span.

VCU scored 50 points in the paint compared to UVA-Wise’s eight. The Rams shot 41 percent from the field and 25 percent beyond the arc.

The Rams outscored the Cavaliers 32-17 in the second half.

Santos-Silva and Jenkins each finished with double-doubles. Santos-Silva had 12 points and 10 rebounds. Jenkins logged 10 points and 10 rebounds in 22 minutes on the floor.

“I didn’t realize how much I missed this crowd and atmosphere,” Santos-Silva said. “One thing [ Jenkins] told me last year was, ‘It’s going to be a long wait until your sophomore year.’ I didn’t realize that until now and it was a long wait.”

The Rams distributed minutes throughout the entire roster with Jenkins logging the most at 22.

“Coach says we are an army,” Douglas said. “We’re sent in waves and we will keep coming every couple minutes sending new guys in, fresh legs, and creating havoc.”

6 The Commonwealth Times

Volleyball sweeps weekend play, reduces magic number to one KAYLEIGH FITZPATRICK Online Editor Volleyball is now one win away from clinching a second consecutive regular season Atlantic 10 Conference Championship after a pair of victories over the weekend against Saint Louis Oct. 28 and Dayton Oct. 26. The Rams (16-7, 11-0 A-10) overcame a slow start to defeat SLU 3-1 and prevailed 3-2 in a five-set thriller against Dayton to complete season sweeps against both teams.

Junior outside hitter Vicky Giommarini paced the Rams offense for the weekend, recording 39 total kills — 21 against SLU and 18 against Dayton. Senior middle blocker Tori Baldwin moved to within two blocks of 500 in her career.

The victories extended VCU’s school-record conference winning streak to 27 matches while bringing its overall winning streak to 12 matches. VCU also improved its postseason resume in its pursuit of a second-straight berth in the NCAA Tournament, as Dayton was 30th in the RPI rankings.

SAINT LOUIS After an emotional five-set victory Friday, the Rams overcame a slow start against the Billikens (5-18, 4-7) by dropping the first set before rallying to win the next three to win the match 3-1 Sunday afternoon at the Siegel Center.

VCU committed an attack, receiving and serving error, respectively, in the first four points played to quickly fall behind 4-1 in the first set. The Rams eventually rallied to hold set point before a series of poor passes allowed Saint Louis to win the set on a 3-0 run. “[Friday] was a grueling match mentally.

I think we had to get dialed in a little bit more,” said head coach Jody Rogers. “Teams are going to come in and play us hard and we can’t have a B-game. If we don’t have an A-game we are going to lose. I reiterated to them that losing to this kind of team can ruin the chances of making the NCAA tournament — I challenged them and they responded. I love the resiliency we showed.”

The Rams stretched their winning streak to 12 games and remained undefeated in the A-10. Photo by Jon Mirador.

Rogers’ challenge bred instant results as VCU started the second set on a 4-0 run enroute to a 25-19 win. VCU continued to bear down as it held SLU to attack percentages of .135 and .000 in the final two sets while hitting .333 and .444 in the same sets.

“We knew we either had to pick it up or we were gonna lose our streak, especially to a team that isn’t the best in our conference,” Baldwin said. “Coach got into us a little bit more in the locker room. That spark lit a fire in our eyes and we picked it up and won.”

For the match, the Rams outhit the Billikens .305 to .158, out-blocked them 13-9 and out-dug them 72-61. Freshman libero Alyna Draper paced the Ram defense with 22 digs and added eight assists.

Giommarini led the match with 21 kills — all in the final three sets.

DAYTON Vicky Giommarini gathered her team after a kill and told them all to relax.

VCU had just lost the second set after allowing arch-rival Dayton (17-7, 8-2) to go on an 11-2 run. A questionable call of a touch on VCU in the third set gave Day-

ton a point and ended a run of momentum the Rams had built.

I think this match was a defining moment for us in earning first in the conference. We still have teams left to play, and we can’t underestimate any of them, but I think this earned our first spot in conference.”

Tori Baldwin, senior middle blocker The junior captain reminded her team to breathe, relax and execute.

Her team responded to go on a 6-2 run to tie the set at 10-10. Another questionable call from officials on a tipped ball — this time in VCU’s favor — sparked a 5-2

Flyers run that they never relinquished as they won the set to take a 2-1 match lead.

VCU’s school-record 25 straight conference win streak appeared to be in doubt.

Except senior captain Baldwin was having none of it. During the huddle between sets, she spoke to the team, imploring them to have heart. “‘Guys, we have to be better and we have to have more heart,’” Baldwin told her team. “‘When it comes down to it, whoever wants it more is going to win.’”

The Rams responded with their best two sets of the match, winning the fourth set 25-19 before cruising 15-6 in the fifth and final set to win the match 3-2. They held the Flyers to a combined .067 hitting percentage in the final two sets combined.

“This was huge,” Rogers said of the victory. “This was an exciting match and there was a lot of emotion. Once we got relaxed and executed, we were fine. The girls just had to have the mindset that they could do it and that they are there for each other. That’s what our culture is and what they did for each other tonight.”

The victory also gave the Rams a sweep in the season series with the Flyers.

VCU now holds the tiebreaker over its rival in the final conference standings in regular season play.

“I think this match was a defining moment for us in earning first in the conference,” Baldwin said. “We still have teams left to play, and we can’t underestimate any of them, but I think this earned our first spot in conference.”

Giommarini led the Rams with 18 kills and added 19 digs, which also led the team.

“Vicky was absolutely huge for us tonight,” said junior middle blocker Jasmin Sneed. “She played so well and kept us emotionally level.”

Volleyball returns to action this weekend with road matches against George Washington Nov. 2 and George Mason Nov. 3. A win against either team will clinch the A-10 regular season championship for the Rams. The next home match for VCU will be Nov. 7, an out-of-conference matchup with High Point.

VCU holds off George Washington to advance in A-10 Tournament NILE MCNAIR Contributing Writer

Women’s Soccer heads to the semifinals Nov. 2 to compete against Saint Joseph’s.

Photo by Teresa Bricker.

In the second half, VCU took over the game. Graves scored her seventh goal of the season and second of the Sporting a four-game winning game via an assist by sophomore forstreak, Women’s Soccer entered the At- ward CiCi Fox. The Rams had luck on lantic 10 Tournament with a dominant their side as they benefited from an own 15-3 record. Saturday night, the Rams goal committed by GW. Graves’ goal hosted a quarterfinal match against and the own goal gave VCU a 3-1 lead George Washington. with less than 10 minutes remaining.

VCU started the scoring off with an The Colonials did not end their season early goal within the first four minutes. without a fight. After a foul by VCU in Senior forward Kelly Graves gave VCU the last minute of the game, Pavon scored a 1-0 lead after intercepting a bad pass her second goal to cut the deficit to one. by the Colonials and shooting from the The Rams survived and advanced as top of the 18-yard line, scoring into the they came away from the home victobottom left corner of the net. ry over GW with a final score of 3-2.

GW tied the game back up later in Graves led the way for VCU in what the first half. Senior midfielder Sofia will be her final A-10 tournament.

Pavon beat VCU goalkeeper Grace Young and scored a goal on an open net VCU advances to the semifinals Nov. 2 in for the Colonials, forcing a 1-1 tie head- Dayton, Ohio against Saint Joseph’s. ing into halftime.

Wed. October 31, 2018 7

Dayton snaps VCU’s conference winning streak JARON NUTTER Contributing Writer

Junior defender Ryo Shimazaki started 15 games this season and scored one gamewinning goal. Photo by Michel Maulding.

ra recorded three saves, bringing his season total to 44.

Rams head coach David Giffard told The Rams failed to extend their six- VCU Athletics why his side failed to win game winning streak as they fell to Dayton their final road match of the regular season.

1-0 Oct. 27 in Ohio.

“I think we focused on the outcome toFlyers’ midfielder Jonas Fjeldberg night instead of how to play to get the outscored a header to the far post in the 31st come we want,” Giffard said. “Disappointminute off an assist from David Lianes. ing for sure, but we need to learn and move Dayton outshot VCU 18-5 overall and onto Wednesday night.”

6-0 in shots on goal.

The Flyers improved to 7-5-4, as the VCU junior midfielder Siad Haji and ju- Rams fell to 9-5-1. VCU currently still nior midfielder Fortia Munts failed to find sits atop the Atlantic 10 standings with a the back of the net in the 51st and 53rd 5-1-1 record in conference play, good for 16 minutes. Redshirt-senior midfielder Joseph points. The Flyers are in seventh place with Gonnella and freshman forward Martin a 3-3-1 record and 10 points.

Ngoh took one shot each. Ngoh was almost the hero with a shot in the 87th minute, but The Rams will look to bounce back against it was blocked by a Dayton defender.

St. Bonaventure Oct. 31 at 7 p.m., their last Sophomore goalkeeper Mario Sequei- game of the regular season.

Rams in Action: Tori Baldwin and Jasmin Sneed That energy is transferto disrupt their opponents able — when Baldwin is offense and the impact of subbed off in a rotation, in getting touches on balls comes junior middle blockhas not gone unrecognized Tori Baldwin’s hands were shaking. er Jasmin Sneed, the NCAA by the rest of the team.

“Do you see this?” she asked, holding leader in blocks per set this “It’s the thing that alout her hands. “My hands are still shaking season and the second-leadlows us to be able to [have I’m so excited.” ing blocker in VCU history. the opportunity for kills].

Baldwin, a senior middle blocker, had Sneed will often pick up We have really great setters just finished leading her team down the where Baldwin left off. In and without good net decourt to celebrate with the band, following the match against Dayton fense and good passes, we her team’s exhilarating come-from-behind alone, there were three sepcan’t run our offense,” Tuz3-2 victory against the Dayton Flyers on arate occasions in which zolo said. “Having a solid Friday.

Baldwin and Sneed blocked defense allows you to run “This game was such an extra rush of an opponent’s attempt on the offense from wherever emotion,” Baldwin said. “The first two consecutive points. you want … The middle points, I’m coming in and thinking, ‘Ah, just “We just gotta keep the crew, they bring such a gotta tip the ball over’ … It was an emotion- block party going, always, great energy. They feed off al rollercoaster for me a little bit. This was and of course, it’s my job each other and they mesh such a fun game to play in.” to block them,” said Sneed, well together.” who set a new school reWith only four matches cord for blocks in a single Junior middle blocker Jasmin Sneed (2) has recorded 165 kills this remaining in the regular season season with 180 last season. season. CT file photo. before the A-10 Tournament Having two elite — and ultra-com- in mid-November — which VCU will host petitive — middle blockers is a luxury for the first time — Baldwin is focused on for any volleyball coach, but one of the keeping her team ready to play, no matter factors that make the duo of Baldwin and the opponent.

Sneed so effective is how they block. At It’s the thing that allows 6-foot-3-inches tall, Baldwin has height us to be able to [have to her advantage, while Sneed, a former the opportunity for kills]. standout basketball player in San Antonio, Texas, has unparalleled athleticism.

We have really great Records are meant “They both have that strive to be awesetters and without to be broken. I never some and they are both so competitive,” good net defense and imagined when I came said head coach Jody Rogers. “They hate losing even if it is like checkers, and that good passes, we can’t [to VCU] that I would mentality permeates throughout the prorun our offense. The set the school record or gram. Tori Baldwin walks into a room and middle crew, they bring get 500 blocks. And I’ll demands respect immediately. But [Sneed] just jumps so high. She can come out of such a great energy. be rooting for Jasmin. nowhere and is like Spider-Woman.”

They feed off each other I hope she breaks my Senior middle blocker Tori Baldwin has For the Rams, the abilities of Baldwin and they mesh well record.” recorded 338 attacks this season. Photo by and Sneed to get their hands onto more Michel Maulding. balls leads to a more productive offensive together.”

Tori Baldwin, senior middle counter-attack. In 10 of the last 11 games, blocker Gina Tuzzollo, junior opposite Baldwin, the school record-holder for VCU has recorded double-digit blocks and hitter career blocks with 498, leads with her emohas three players — Sneed (1st), Baldwin “We aren’t going to lay down or underestion. When she gets a block or spike — or Barring injury, Sneed will supplant (2nd) and senior opposite hitter Julia Adler timate anyone,” she said. “We are going to a teammate does — she lets out a roar and Baldwin for the career block record be- (4th) — ranked in the top-5 in the Atlantic fight to the very end, no matter who we are turns to celebrate with her team, and they fore she graduates. It is a feat Baldwin 10 conference for blocks this season. playing against. We are going to act like the feed off that passion and energy. hopes she accomplishes.

“It’s great because they both bring two underdogs the entire time.”

“Getting a block is really exciting because “Records are meant to be broken,” different sides of play,” Rogers said. “[BaldFor a team that has won 26 consecutive you don’t get them as much as you get every- Baldwin said. “I never imagined when win] is a little bit more physical and [Sneed] conference matches, that mindset could thing else,” said junior opposite hitter Gina I came [to VCU] that I would set the is more athletic. [Baldwin] brings in such leave VCU’s future opponents shaking, and Tuzzolo. “It’s exciting for the whole team. school record or get 500 blocks. And I’ll a leadership piece. The team is always on not out of exhilaration.

The bench gets really excited and there is be rooting for Jasmin. I hope she breaks point when she is in there. this energy in a block that we just feed off of.” my record.”

The prowess of the Rams’ frontcourt KAYLEIGH FITZPATRICK Online Editor

8 The Commonwealth Times

Field Hockey pitches shutout against Davidson in season finale ANDY RIDDLER Contributing Writer

Sophomore defender Emily van Hijfte has scored three goals and has a shot percentage of .176 this season. Photo by Shayla Bailey.

McNamara completed her hat trick in the 47th minute on an assist from freshman defender Litiana Field. The goal exField Hockey defeated Davidson 3-0 in tended McNamara’s school record for goals the regular season finale Oct. 27 in North in a season to 25 — four more than the Carolina. The Rams’ 7-1 Atlantic 10 record previous mark she set last season. is VCU’s best since moving to the conference.

Freshman goalkeeper Sasha Elliott reIt took less than eight minutes for se- corded three saves on the way to her fourth nior forward Emily McNamara to get the shutout of the season.

Rams on the board, scoring off an assist VCU outshot Davidson 10-6 and 7-3 in by senior forward Lauren Kaup. The assist shots on goal. was Kaup’s first of the season.

McNamara’s second goal came in the The Black and Gold will continue their quest 27th minute following a pass by sophomore for a conference championship Nov. 2 at defender Emily van Hijfte. The assist was Saint Joseph’s. van Hijfte’s second of the season.

NOAH FLEISCHMAN Staff Writer The college basketball recruiting process could have major changes in store as the NCAA decides how to punish programs embroiled in the “College Basketball Trial,” technically U.S. v. Gatto et al., which took place in New York City.

“Pay-to-play” — that is what was echoed around a New York courtroom as former Adidas executive James Gatto, former Adidas consultant Merl Code and wannabe agent Christian Dawkins sat on trial for allegedly paying high school athletes to attend certain colleges.

All three were found guilty Oct. 24 on charges of wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The charges carry a maximum of 20 years in prison.

Unfortunately, the practice of paying college recruits, especially basketball players, has become the status-quo. The players should not receive compensation while being recruited, or the future of recruiting will be negatively affected. In the future, big corporations should not be able to fund the recruitment of star high school athletes because the playing field needs to be leveled between schools. I am all for paying collegiate athletes, but not during the recruiting process.

This trial has opened some people’s eyes, as it has shown the corruption of the NCAA and its recruiting system. This method of recruiting has been an ongoing practice for years.

Dallas Mavericks guard Dennis Smith Jr. was used as an example in the trial as the U.S. government alleged that North Carolina State University paid him $40,000 to enroll. NC State was allegedly given the

money from Gatto to give to Smith Jr., so he would sign and play at the Adidas-sponsored institution. The payment was made to Smith Jr.’s father, Dennis Smith Sr. The younger Smith was not aware of the payment, but it still would have qualified as an NCAA recruiting violation.

Former VCU Men’s Basketball head coach and current head coach at Louisiana State University Will Wade had his name brought up during the trial. Wade was caught on an FBI wiretap talking on the phone with Dawkins about “funding” a highly recruited high school senior, Balsa Koprivica, in order to get him to sign with LSU, according to a report by ESPN. Yahoo Sports posted a transcription of the conversation.

“Would you want Balsa?” Dawkins asked.

“Ooh, the big kid?” Wade said.

Dawkins confirmed.

“OK, but there is other [expletive] involved in it,” Wade said. “Wait, I’ve got to shut the door … I can get you what you need but it’s got to work.”

Koprivica tweeted June 21, 2017, “Blessed to say I have received an offer from LSU.” This implies Wade was ready to give the recruit what he wanted.

“It was a little bit surprising,” Wade told ESPN at SEC Media Day. “I’m not really gonna react to what the defense attorney said. I will say I’m very proud of everything I’ve done as LSU’s head coach … I or we have never, ever done business of any kind with Christian Dawkins. That’s what I’ll say about that.”

Wade’s wiretap was not admissible in the case because it did not deal with the Adidas executives who were sitting on trial.

The content of the wiretap is enough evidence for the NCAA to take action against Wade if they deem it necessary, which they

Illustration by Nan He

Press Box: The NCAA basketball recruiting scandal

should, because this is clear-cut evidence of illegal recruiting practices.

“It’s a blip. It’s not what’s happening,” Duke Men’s Basketball head coach Mike Krzyzewski said at a press conference Oct. 15.

Well, Coach Krzyzewski, the pattern that we have seen does not look like a “blip” on a radar, as multiple schools have been accused of paying their athletes. It is surprising that many high-level players, including star recruit Zion Williamson, have elected to go to Duke and turn down large amounts of money. That raises the question of whether Krzyzewski has paid his recruits.

Williamson’s father allegedly asked for money, a job and housing, according to evidence presented during the trial. The highly sought-after recruit then committed to Duke, which was a major shock around

college basketball.

College athletes, regardless of what sport they play, should be paid for their services that they provide during their time at their universities. Colleges and universities profit off the likenesses of the players as they market the athletes across campuses and cities.

However, they should not be paid during the recruiting process as some have been over the years. The investigation and trial opened the eyes of the public as it saw the large sums offered to players by certain schools.

The scandal changes the way we look at college basketball recruiting and shows how the future of recruiting is in limbo. The trial is setting a precedent that action will be taken against those who seek to corrupt the NCAA recruiting system.

Mulhern strides to third place at A-10 championships NOAH FLEISCHMAN Staff Writer

Junior Lucas Sidle placed 78th with a time of 26:28.7 as the second Ram to cross the line.

Men’s and Women’s Cross Country hit Freshman Archie Blaes and redthe course at Pole Green Park in Mechan- shirt-junior Michael Villagomez ran sideicsville to compete in the Atlantic 10 Con- by-side, finishing 110th and 111th with ference Championships Oct. 27. times of 27:30.6 and 27:32.4, respectively.

Freshman Sean Moulton rounded out the top five for VCU as he finished 121st with MEN’S a time of 22:41.5.

The Rams finished 12th out of 14 Freshman Owen Walker finished teams, averaging a time of 27:07.66 to 124th at 23:07.4. earn 362 points in the meet.

Dayton won the men’s title, finishing Junior Bryce Catlett led the Black and with 72 points and an average time of Gold with a 25th place finish as he ran 25:11.30. the 8,000-meter race in 25:35.8.

WOMEN’S Senior Emily Mulhern led the way for the Rams in the women’s race as she finished third overall with a time of 17:22.4.

The Black and Gold finished 11th out of 14 teams with 322 points.

Junior Ashley Brown was the second Ram to cross the finish line as she ran a time of 18:13.7 in the 5,000-meter race, good for 31st overall.

Right behind Brown came junior Delaney Savedge who finished 39th at 18:23.1.

Redshirt-senior Nichelle Scott finished 55th with a time of 18:38.8 while junior

Judith White finished 126th with a time of 20:33.9 to round out the Rams in the meet.

The Rams finished with an average time of 18:38.38, which allowed them to finish ahead of Rhode Island, UMass, and St. Bonaventure.

Richmond took the women’s crown with 41 points and an average time of 17:35.54.

Next up, the Black and Gold travel to South Carolina to compete in the Southeast Regionals Nov. 9.

Wed. October 31, 2018 9

On this day

Magician Harry Houdini died Oct. 31, 1926 in Detroit of gangrene and peritonitis after suffering a ruptured appendix days earlier ­­­­— which he continued to perform with.

A man and his monster Photo by Erin Edgerton, illustration by Steck Von

Iconic “Hellboy” comic book creator speaks at VCU SEBASTIAN GRANT Contributing Writer

vial chat touched on some personal topics, including Mignola’s insecurities and fears when it comes to his artistic process and his tales of humorous falls and a near-fatal encounter with actor Jeff Goldblum.

In anticipation of the discussion, Mignola hoped to speak on human emotions that many people might not expect from a comic book superstar. ”Hopefully, we’ll get into my endless parade of insecurities and fears. And the fact that I could overcome so much of that stuff to do this stuff,” Mignola said.

This candid sentiment resonated with students at the event.

“I think it’s really funny that a man

whose comics really seem to calm my anxieties and my fears struggles with the same kind of stuff,” said Claire Willard, an avid Creator of the “Hellboy” and “Bureau for Mignola fan. “His work has a really positive Paranormal Research and Defense” comics effect on me.”

Mike Mignola — famous for his unique Audience members asked questions redrawing style and storytelling — discussed garding Mignola’s motivations and inspiracreativity, insecurities and the artistic protions. Mignola cited urgency and foresight cess at the W.E. Singleton Center for Peras strong motivators throughout his career. forming Arts Oct. 29.

“There’s a part of me that’s always looking TyRuben Ellingson, department chair ahead,” he said. “I’ve always had this feeling for VCUarts Communication Arts and a of ‘I’ve gotta get going.’” former Hollywood prop designer, is MiMignola touched on the value of indignola’s longtime friend. They engaged in an viduality throughout his talk, encouraging insightful academic discussion that often attendees to be distinct and unique. Mignoslid into stand-up comedy territory. The jola cited comic book legends Bernie Wrightson and Frank Frazetta as artists he initially wanted to emulate. However, he later learned it was best to just be himself and embrace his personal style. With this in mind, he cautioned artists against following too closely behind their idols.

“People look at my style and they say ‘who the hell are your influences?’” Mignola said. “That’s a good thing.”

His individuality has significantly impacted the comic book community.

“Mignola is probably the most influential comic book artist of the past 20 years,” said Patrick Godfrey, owner of Velocity Comics on Broad Street.

TyRuben Ellingson, department chair for VCUarts Communication Arts and longtime friend of Mignola, helped lead the discussion. Photo by Erin Edgerton

Works like “Hellboy” have achieved such a high level of pop culture status that Mignola’s ideas have now spanned into two feature films, animated projects, video games and more. An R-rated reboot for the “red renegade” releases sometime in 2019.

But Mignola said you’d have to ask his wife for the specific date.

Mignola told The Commonwealth Times he could never have anticipated such mainstream success for a character he originally began drawing on tablecloths.

“My story is that a guy with a pretty limited skill set figured out how to take his limited tools and do what he wanted and become very successful,” he said. “It’s not an unattainable thing. I’ve been very lucky, but there’s a lot of hard work that went into getting that lucky.”

The talk was warmly received with countless moments of applause and laughter. The scene at the Singleton Center following the discussion was emotional — many attendees were inspired, informed and entertained by the enriching event.

“This was one of the most impressive talks I’d ever been to — and I’ve talked to presidents,” said Gayathri Prakash, a VCUarts student. “He said he had a lot of doubts, and that was very relatable.”

Mignola hopes his work and story inspire people who are interested in working in the comic book industry.

“I just want people to come away thinking, ‘if he could do it, then I could do it,’” Mignola said. “It’s all about knowing what you want to do and figuring out a way to just go do it.”

10 The Commonwealth Times

Listening sessions begin for potential documentary center in Richmond ANDREW RINGLE Contributing Writer Community members, journalists, photographers and filmmakers gathered Oct. 27 to discuss the potential of creating a documentary center at 1708 Gallery.

The discussion was led by VCU alumna Kate Fowler, who graduated in 2013 with a degree in photography and filmmaking. She has since contributed to the Magnum Foundation in New York City and Appalshop, a media center located in Whitesburg, Kentucky. In both programs, Fowler focused on education, often working with young creators VCU alumna Kate Fowler led the discussion on building a possible documentary center. between the ages of 14 and 21.

Photo by Andrew Ringle The listening session covered a range of topics, including the potential “In Richmond, there’s a great fine art who specializes in digital media and concenter’s impact on the city, along with con- world for photography in marketing and tent marketing. Beller’s role in the potential sideration of existing members in the local commercial fields,” Fowler said. “But there documentary center is focused on including documentary community. The attendees are no spaces for documentary media mak- education within the facility structure. discussed possible construction sites, espe- ers to get together and collaborate outside “At the end of the day, it’s about the legcially weighing proximity to public trans- of VCU.” acy we’re leaving for future generations. I portation like GRTC Pulse — the transit Fowler said the first listening session believe that something like this, if done corline which runs along Broad Street. was intended to be a “landscape of the ex- rectly, can be a beacon for the community Existing organizations mentioned in the isting field.” at large,” Beller said. “It can be something discussion included the Richmond produc“The goal was to determine what already which invites everyone to tell their story tion company Fourth Line and Richmond exists and what could exist in the future,” and document that story while having a Story House, a non-profit organization she said. conversation with other creators.” focused on documenting the stories of the The project was spearheaded by Fowler The documentary center plans to include local community. and Michael Beller, a Los Angeles creative studio spaces, galleries for finished projects

and a lending library of books and media equipment. It will serve as a place reserved for filmmakers, journalists, photographers, podcasters and any other creators of non-fiction media.

Among the participants in the discussion was Norma Haynes, a folk musician from Massachusetts and friend of Fowler’s. Haynes visited Richmond to attend the listening session and share her stories as an artist of traditional media.

“This project is about making the community into something you want it to become,” Haynes said. “And it has the potential to develop along with Richmond for years to come.”

Her perspective on the city as a visitor represented the way a documentary center might connect Richmond to the larger media world. That connection, Fowler said, makes a local documentary center more important than ever.

“I don’t just think Richmond should have a documentary center, I think every city and town should have one as well,” Fowler said. “Storytelling is important to democracy. We’re more empowered to be better citizens when we know how to tell our own stories and share our own media.”

The next listening session will be in November at Candela Gallery. An exact date has not been determined.

Endeavor Art Studio provides all-inclusive creative space ZACH JOACHIM Executive Editor Endeavor RVA, an art studio and space for Richmond creatives of all sorts, will celebrate its three-year anniversary at its Nov. 2 First Friday show.

Creative Director and co-founder Ian Hess said the studio became a possibility “over a drink and a concept.” The VCUarts painting and printmaking graduate jumped at the opportunity when he saw the space at 316 Brook Rd. become available in September 2015. Along with fellow founders Eli McMullen and Wing Chow, Hess has since developed Endeavor into a hub for creative collaboration.

Once you’re out [of school] there’s really no easy means of publishing your independent work ... So we’ve always geared the space since day one as a medium for other people to get their work out.”

Nick De Souza, communications and marketing director “It was a super fortuitous circumstance.

It was kinda like, after graduating they sit you down and they’re like ‘well, you’re probably going to have a job serving coffee for four years and good luck,’” Hess said. “It’s

kind of been that stabilizing force, a reason to make work because people are going to come see it.”

Hess and Communications and Marketing Director Nick De Souza said Endeavor is not geared toward a specific artistic medium. Rather, the space is a place for burgeoning creatives of all disciplines to display and craft their work.

“Once you’re out [of school] there’s really no easy means of publishing your independent work,” De Souza said. “Whether that’s writing, events, painting, really everything.

So we’ve always geared the space since day one as a medium for other people to get their work out.”

De Souza graduated from VCU in 2016 with a degree in public relations. He said the creative practices at Endeavor range from laser cutting to performance art, comedy shows, writing, poetry slams, pottery making, illustrating, 3D modeling, leatherworking and cinematography, among others.

Although the space is home to frequent events and critiques, the pair said many artists come to Endeavor in search of the opportunity to simply share creative energy and work alongside one another in a communal setting.

“It’s been absolutely amazing — the best community I could have asked for, misfits and weirdos coming through left and right,” Hess said. “All these people are radically sincere in their pursuits.”

In an effort to provide VCU students with the same creative and professional opportunities that have meant so much to them, Hess, De Souza and their co-workers at Endeavor started an internship program at the beginning of 2017. The program has drawn students from several departments and allows them the opportunity to hone their skills in the art industry. Participants receive individualized projects specific to

Ian Hess (left) and Eli McMullen (right), founded Endeavor in 2015 along with Wing Chow. Photos by Erin Edgerton their field of study. It is Endeavor’s mission to “leave [students] with tangible projects for their portfolios and with intangible knowledge of Richmond’s creative workscape,” according to its website.

The studio accepts submissions for its internship program year-round for the spring, summer and fall semesters. Applicants can email Endeavor a resume and up to three portfolio examples.

Additionally, Hess and De Souza said they hope to develop an independent study class in which students can learn the logistics of putting on an art show.

Hess said he has been blown away by the support Endeavor has received from the Richmond community since its opening in 2015.

“At our first show when we opened up, somewhere around 1,000 people showed

up, we couldn’t believe it,” Hess said. “The response we got from people was so overwhelming. It seemed like people were hungry to have this kind of grassroots show.”

The three-year anniversary show will feature 15 artists and four performers. Hess and De Souza said they hope the event can help draw even more creative Richmonders to their artistic community.

“We want to give people the opportunity that we’ve had with such an awesome space,” De Souza said.

Endeavor hosts free critique nights on the third Monday of every month at different venues across Richmond. For more information, sign up for Endeavor’s monthly newsletter and read about upcoming events at endeavorva.com, or follow the studio on Instagram or Facebook at endeavor.rva.

Wed. October 31, 2018 11

LANDON ROBERTS Contributing Writer Entertainment company A24 and coming-of-age stories have become synonymous following the production of films like “Lady Bird,” “Eighth Grade” and “20th Century Women.” While all these films may take place during different time periods, the theme of finding a sense of belonging is evident in each one. The same can be said for A24’s newest film and Jonah Hill’s directorial debut “Mid90s,” a heart-wrenching look at the skate culture of the ‘90s.

Sunny Suljic plays Stevie, a 13-year-old boy who finds refuge from his troubled home life in a group of skaters who likewise seek a similar sense of freedom.

The theme of escapism through skateboarding is the fulcrum of this film. Scenes of the misfits skating help bring the audience back to simpler times. As the film goes on, the spectre of responsibility looms over the group’s head, leading to scenes of vibrant discourse within the group.

These scenes would not have worked if it were not for Hill’s natural and masterful work behind the camera. He constantly lets the camera sit on the actions of the characters, creating many long static shots. This lets the audience digest every minute detail of the scene, taking in every emotion the characters are experiencing.

He also employs dialectical montage and

creates an almost identical effect to the static shots — a technique best used when Hill also implements music. This combination leads to a music video-type feeling of raw emotion, similar to ‘90s MTV videos.

This emotion carries over to almost every performance in the film. Sunny’s Stevie is minimalistic but incredibly effective. The shy shell of introversion is broken with every interaction with his new group of friends.

Every action and its repercussions can be seen through his thoughtful execution of reactionary expressions of joy, remorse and determination. The subtle character growth creates incredible scenes of rebellion that pull on the heartstrings.

The skaters Stevie aligns himself with also bring the same subtilty to their performance. Ray, the leader of the group, is played by Na-kel Smith who creates an aura of morality around his character that offers levity to the extremes of the film. There is a monologue he executes near the final act of the film that is so genuine and real one can become completely lost in his character.

Olan Prenatt’s character Fuckshit is defined by his carefree attitude and reckless abandon. Ray and Fuckshit show two different mindsets of skate culture and create an interesting conflict through their naturalistic performances.

The best performance throughout the film is Lucas Hedges’ Ian. Hedges plays the bully brother perfectly while showing

Illustration by Adam Goodman

“Mid90s” captures skate culture, nostalgia and growing up

a vulnerability and complexity through his small gestures and glances toward his brother Stevie.

This film is ultimately a story of brotherhood and through the impressive camerawork and natural performances, Hill was

able to put together a story that is relatable, funny and heartbreaking. It will be hard not to think about the carefree summers and childhood friendships while viewing this incredibly nostalgic love letter to skate culture and the ‘90s as a whole.

Landon and Sam’s recommended horror movies LANDON ROBERTS Contributing Writer

choices which make you tremble from disbelief. Tears caused by moments of pleading family members are always followed by the terror of realization of the actions that built up to that exact moment and the eventual actions that will proceed. Moments like this can be found in all three of these masterclasses of horror filmmaking.

SAMUEL GOODRICH Staff Writer

Sam’s picks —

“THE CABIN IN THE WOODS”

While it is a tad dated by modern standards, “Eyes Without a Face” is still a haunting, poetic film that isn’t afraid to get gory. The film follows a mad doctor who kidnaps women and surgically removes their faces. His goal is to reconstruct his daughter’s disfigured face — which is covered by a mask — that has since become a pop culture icon. The dreadful atmosphere created by the eerie fog and gothic mansion setting are enough to put anyone in a spooky mood.

Horror comedies have become a prevalent genre in the last ten years. However, none have been as meta as this soon-tobe cult classic. “The Cabin in the Woods” follows a group of teenagers that go to an isolated cabin with many hidden secrets.

The intentionally-cliched plot allows the film to poke fun at horror conventions, creating moments of unexpected gut-busting laughter and thrills.

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“EYES WITHOUT A FACE”

“IT FOLLOWS” The fear of stalking and the inevitability of death are common themes in most horror films, but “It Follows” tackles these ideas head-on with terrifying results. The movie follows a teenage girl who is given a “disease” of sorts after having sex with her boyfriend. The disease comes in the form of a being which can disguise itself as anyone and will stop at nothing to kill you until you pass it on to someone else.

The film is a clear allegory for sexually transmitted diseases while also capturing anxiety and paranoia through subtle framing and camera techniques. It will make you scared to stay anywhere by yourself.

“HALLOWEEN III: SEASON OF THE WITCH” Notable for being the only film in the Halloween franchise not to feature Michael Myers, “Season of the Witch” is an underrated good time. A cheesy and at times hilariously dated movie, “Halloween III” creates its scares from the premise and surprisingly shocking death scenes, touching on evil cults and the commodification of the holiday. It is a bizarre film that is charming more than it is spine-tingling, but it works best as a double feature with the equally fun “Trick ‘r Treat.” Both are perfect visualizations of Halloween,

“THE KILLING OF A SACRED DEER”

Laughter ultimately leads to disgust in capturing the spirit and atmosphere of “The Killing of a Sacred Deer.” Years afthe season. ter a heart surgeon makes a fatal mistake on one of his patients, he is faced with a cruel choice that will affect him and his family. The stilted, blunt dialogue mingled with the plot creates a feeling of compeTHE A24 “DOMESTIC tition that grows more sinister with every HORROR TRILOGY” scene. The movie is filmed with the camA family’s biggest fear is the death of a era positioned in a manner that evokes loved one. When A24 released a themat- an ever-present weight on the character’s ic trilogy with “The Witch,” “It Comes at shoulders. This creates a sense of uneasNight” and “Hereditary,” it combined the iness that will make you squirm deeper deep primal fear of loss in a family with and deeper into your seat even after the supernatural terror. The process of grief film ends. alongside supernatural elements leads to a family dynamic made up of anxiety-driven

Landon’s picks —

12 The Commonwealth Times

UPCOMING EVENTS See something

FRI. 11/2 3 Year Anniversary Exhibition at Endeavor RVA

Endeavor RVA, an art studio created by VCU graduates, is celebrating its third year with a First Friday exhibition. The event will feature 15 artists and four musicians. Visit endeavorva.com for more information.

5-11 p.m., Endeavor RVA (316 Brook Rd.)

TUE. 11/6 Cabell First Novelist Award Night The 14th Annual Richmond Zombie Walk took place Oct. 27 in Carytown. Photos by Teresa Bricker

The undead rise in Carytown DESTINY HALL-HARPER Contributing Writer Zombies have finally arrived, and they’ve taken over Carytown.

The 14th Annual Richmond Zombie Walk took place Oct. 27 starting at the Byrd Theatre and meandering to Kroger and back. The walk itself is in conjunction with the American Cancer Society and all participants were encouraged to donate five dollars to the cause.

Anthony Menez, one of the coordinators of the event, gave insight into the magnitude of those in attendance.

“When the attendance peaked at almost

700 a few years ago, we stopped counting,” Menez said in an email. “I think the rain in the morning scared off a lot of potential walkers. We estimated around 300 this time around.”

The Zombie Walk has been a staple in Richmond for years, originally conceived by Menez’s friend.

“It started as a flash mob idea by one our friends, Roger Barr, back in 2005,” Menez said. “He started the whole thing then we [Menez and Josh Bishop] took over and have been running it every year since then.”

There is a simple criterion to be considered a zombie.

“There are many subtle levels of the

dead/undead. I could go on and on about what I personally think,” Menez said. “It is pretty subjective really. Off hand, I don’t know...blood, blood and more blood.”

The costume contest entices many participants each year. The winners of the contest this year ranged from those dressed up as an undead fast food chain icons Ronald McDonald and Wendy to a corpse bride.

“This year marks the 14th year of the annual event, longer than I had ever anticipated,” Menez said. “At this point I think it is like a Supreme Court nomination — we are in it for life.”

VCU’s M.F.A. in Creative Writing program presents this award to an outstanding debut novel that was published in the preceding calendar year. This year, the winner is Hernan Diaz’s “In the Distance.”

Diaz is a Pulitzer Prize and PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction finalist.

7-8:30 p.m., Cabell Library, Third Floor Lecture Hall

Do something

WED. 10/31 Child Development Center Costume Parade Join VCU’s School of Education in handing out candy to kids from the Child Development Center. Dress up in kid-friendly costumes and bring peanut/ tree-nut free candy. The children will start arriving at 10 a.m.

9:45-11 a.m., Trani Courtyard (behind Oliver Hall, 1015 W Main St.)

FRI. 11/2 Campus Sustainability Day

This nation-wide celebration allows universities to create events centered around sharing ideas, resources and information with members of VCU and the community. Vegetarian food, sustainability item giveaways and local organizations providing information will all be part of the event.

10 a.m.-2 p.m., Commons Plaza (907 Floyd Ave.)

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Learn something

THU. 11/1 Science on Tap: Tribute to Grunge

Costume contest winners ranged from fast food icons Ronald McDonald and Wendy to the corpse bride.

This educational and entertaining experience will teach visitors about different topics relating to science while connecting them to 90’s grunge culture.

Attractions include Black Hole Sun astronomy show, Pearl Jam oyster science, Smells Like Teen Spirit sniffer challenge and more. There will also be live music from Pilots and Pearls at 9 p.m. Belle Isle Moonshine and Growlers to Go will sell drinks and Go Go Vegan Go, Sammich and Happy Empanada will offer food. The event is 21+ and admission is $10. Visit smv.org for more information.

6-10 p.m., Science Museum of Virginia (2500 W Broad St.)

MON. 11/5 “What’s Menthol Got to do With it?” Everything!”

This guest talk with Dr. Philip Gardiner will focus on how menthol cigarettes are disproportionately targeted to and used

by African Americans. When menthol is added to cigarettes, it causes deeper inhalation, greater intake of toxins and makes it harder to quit smoking. African Americans are dying disproportionately as a result of this and although the Senate banned 13 cigarette flavors in 2009, menthol was not part of that list.

Local governments have since began restricting the sale of menthol tobacco products.

4-6 p.m., Institute for Contemporary Art at VCU (601 W Broad St.)

The idea for the Zombie Walk originated as a flash mob concept.

Wed. October 31, 2018 13

Quote of the week

On Halloween, kids get to assume, for one night the outward forms of their innermost dread, and they’re also allowed to take candy from strangers — the scariest thing of all.

— Kate Christensen, american novelist

My open letter to masked villain Michael Myers While most of you ladies are gearing up to dress in sexy costumes for Halloween, I will be in the movie theater cozied up with a bucket of popcorn watching the love of my life on the big screen slice-and-dice some stupid teenagers.

I may have a slight obsession with a certain masked villain — Michael Myers.

I never really liked horror movies as a kid, but I started to get into the slasher classics because Disney simply didn’t cut it for me anymore.

I was intrigued by the plot of “Halloween.” What was his motive for going on a killing spree? Why did he look so good in that blue jumpsuit he stole from the mechanic he butchered?

Let me stop drooling and back up. What was Michael’s motive?

In the first movie, he seemingly has no reason for killing. Consider the opening scene of the movie: he appears to be a normal kid living in a nice, suburban home with his parents and sister, the latter of whom he kills at only 6 years old.

Now, I believe in the wise words of Randy Meeks from “Scream”: “It’s the millennium, motives are incidental.” But in “Halloween II,” a potential motive is given to explain Michael’s sinister ways.

After he killed his sister when he was 6, Michael spent time in a mental hospital until he broke out at 21. He returned to his hometown and began murdering

who knows what he wants.

He has “the blackest eyes, the devil’s eyes,” according to his psychiatrist Sam Loomis. I could stare in those eyes for hours. Michael is stoic, cold and a little shy — he doesn’t talk much.

I imagine our first date would be him bringing me to the Myers home. He wouldn’t look at me or hold my hand, but he would order me takeout from Elephant Thai. We’d eat and sit in front of a window and watch adorable kids go trick-or-treating. I’d eventually drag him to some Halloween party — he already has his own costume so there’s no excuse not to go.

I would dress up as Mrs. Voorhees from “Friday the 13th” since I’ve got plenty of turtlenecks in my own closet to emulate the vengeful mother. We may get some stares at the party, but we’d make a cute couple.

I’m joking, but I do think he is one of the most fascinating slasher killers. Some may think he’s boring, but his ability to slink around in the dark and hunt down his victims without running is impressive.

He creates an air of suspension that keeps you constantly watching your back. The fact that he waited more than a decade to break out of the hospital shows his true dedication and patience. These are good traits, albeit executed badly.

Nevertheless, I think Michael’s lack of motive is scary and inherently human — even though he (spoiler alert) gets supernatural after the second movie and comes back to life after being burned to charcoal.

Illustration by Sammy Newman

BRIANNA SCOTT Contributing Writer

random people, stalking babysitter Laurie Strode, who is revealed to be his sister in the second movie. Perhaps Michael is just cleaning up some unfinished business. Even so, it doesn’t explain why he started killing in the first place.

Jason Voorhees from “Friday the 13th” kills to avenge his mother and keep people away from Camp Crystal Lake. Freddy Krueger from “Nightmare on Elm Street” kills because he’s a creepy, sadistic murderer with a particular affinity for children. Carrie

White from “Carrie” kills because she was bullied and comes from a wildly religious and abusive home.

The newest “Halloween,” released this month, is a direct sequel to the first “Halloween” (1978) but ignores the sister storyline. With or without another sibling to kill, we have no idea what drove Michael to his first kill. This mysteriousness draws me in.

Michael gives off an energy that lets you know he isn’t playing games. I like a man

An Ode to Self Care

Recommended listening while reading:

“HUMAN” Kimbra

Help. Graduation is right around the corner for us December graduates. I’m scared I’m not doing what I want and I am only doing what I “should” be doing. How can I tell the difference?

This is easier said than done. You have to figure out what you want — without your parents, school or any other external factors clouding your judgement. If you don’t know what you want, then trying to tell the difference between these things is pointless. This can be a lot to think about. In the meantime, just do your best to avoid falling into a day-to-day routine that feels like a mind-numbing hellscape of compromise and disappointment.

Oh, girl. As a psychology student, I hate when people throw around terms like this without really understanding what they’re saying. That aside, their boyfriends are not sociopaths — they just sound like self-absorbed asses. I think it bothers you because it’s really annoying when your friends chronically date those types of people. You are the good friend they lean on when they are shattered, and you’re always there to piece them back together — but you are also allowed to be sick of that. Maybe sitWhat am I supposed to do when I’m in ting down with them and having a good love with two different people? old-fashioned talk about their worth and why they shouldn’t date such men will help.

Again, this is not a “supposed-to-do” sit- If not, maybe it’s time to find new friends. uation. Try figuring out what you want to do. I think you need to be honest with the I just really want to fall in love with somepeople involved. If they do not want what one who is kind, witty and sexually attracyou want, then at that point, I think you tive, and have them love me back. Why will have a better idea of what to do. Ei- does this seem so impossible nowadays? ther way, that is never a fun situation and I hope nothing but the best for you while I don’t think it’s impossible nowadays, so navigating it. to speak. I think the only issue you are facing is you are mistaking kindness, wit and Why does it bother me that four of sexual attraction for long-term compatimy friends have referred to their boybility. Moreover, it sounds like you to have friends as sociopaths, yet continue to love confused with infatuation. Calm down, date them? and breath. I have a feeling that whomever

you are looking for will pop up as soon as you stop looking and caring so much. The universe has a wicked sense of humor like that. Stop falling in love with love. Instead, try loving and nurturing yourself and those around you.

Illustration by Alex Hwee

SHAUN JACKSON Staff Writer

14 The Commonwealth Times

Trick-or-treating isn’t what it used to be MARGRETTA SAKOR Contributing Writer

There are so many more threats present, that’s one of the saddest things. Our parents were scared too, but they trusted us. And when we came home, all the candy got checked.”

Illustration by Steck Von

When I was a child, trick-or-treating started at 8 p.m and didn’t end until midnight. Families were still outside late at night handing out loads of candy, and Halloween costumes ranged from basic sheet ghosts to elaborate princesses and power rangers.

Dressing up was fun, but what really mattered was being out with your friends all night collecting candy. It’s one of the few nights a year parents allowed their kids to be out so late, and it was exciting.

That is what Halloween is supposed to be — a late-night adventure. But that isn’t what is happening today.

ing for a reason. The depths of the night is the best time for tricks.

Back when I was younger, there was a strategic plan to trick-or-treating. You hit up your neighborhood first, especially the houses you knew left bowls of candy outside the door. Then, you crossed the street into the other neighborhood and cleared those houses. After that, you hit up the local stores that handed out candy, because they were open late.

Going through all the different neighMargretta Sakor, borhoods took a long time, but at the end Contributing Writer of the night you had pillowcases filled with Nowadays, trick-or-treating starts at 5 sugary goodies. I remember sometimes p.m. and ends before 9 p.m. As soon as kids we’d have to go home and get new pilget out of school, it’s time to go knocking lowcases or bags because they become too on doors. I think that is just wrong. Trick- heavy to carry. or-treating should not start so early. The At the end of the night, you’d dump point of Halloween is for the night to be it all out on the floor and examine your dark and scary — it’s called trick-or-treat- night’s work. You’d pick out what candy

you wanted to take to school the next day and which pieces you would spend the night eating. That’s the Halloween life I remember.

Now, there are special places to go trickor-treating. Many neighborhoods put together events for the kids. I’ve noticed in the last couple years the households that hand out candy have shrunk. A previously exciting all-nighter event has turned into a three-to-four-hour event where people are packing up by 8:30 p.m. to go inside.

Another big thing I’ve noticed is the ages of trick-or-treaters. It’s become shameful to trick or treat as a teenager or young adult. I for one love trick-or-treating — last year, I dressed up as an ‘80s character and knocked on doors right next to my siblings. But this is the first year I won’t be doing so.

There is now a law in many states prohibiting anyone older than 12 from trick-

or-treating. That is just crazy. Granted, when I was little, teenagers used to steal our candy, but that simply added to the thrill.

We had to think of plans to avoid them. It kept us on our toes.

I know part of the reason trick-or-treating has changed so much is for kids’ safety, but nothing ever happened while we went out on Halloween as kids. I understand parents are more frightened today than they were a decade ago. There are so many more threats present, that’s one of the saddest things. Our parents were scared too, but they trusted us. And when we came home, all the candy got checked.

Of course, little kids don’t notice the difference as long as they get to go trickor-treating. As long as they are having fun, it doesn’t matter. But this is an unfortunate sign of how much the times have changed.

Balls and bats don’t define masculinity I don’t like sports. I don’t understand sports. I don’t even watch the Super Bowl. For me, sports are simply groups of people running really fast and throwing, kicking or hitting a ball really far. My family jokes that I can’t tell the difference between a touchdown and a homerun.

While I don’t completely ignore sports, I’ve always felt they isolated me from other men.

Whenever I go to a barber shop, the first thing my barber asks me is, “What’s your favorite football team?” to start up a conversation. There’s nothing wrong with that, he’s just trying to be friendly. However, constantly being asked about something you don’t care for gets annoying. When I answer “I don’t watch football,” an awkward silence follows as my eyes glide over the barbershop walls, decorated in sports posters and paraphernalia.

As a male, I’m supposed to care about sports. That’s why it remains the go-to conversation at barbershops. Men are supposed to be strong rough-housers — sports perfectly emulate that aspect of society’s masculine gender construct.

Sports should be fun and entertaining while also providing a sense of community. But for me, they just feel like another awkward obstacle.

Love for sports is so deeply rooted in our society that I once had a high school teacher who made us create our own

coiled into my isolation and awkwardness and read my book until the bell rang.

Whenever I tell people I don’t like sports, there’s always the comment that it’s simply because I’m not good at them.

But that is not true — I don’t like sports because I don’t find them entertaining. My parents signed me up for flag football when I was a kid, and I complained so much they let me leave within a week of joining. I’d rather be sitting at home reading a “Black Lagoon” book.

My ideas of fun include staying at home, writing short stories in my journal and watching movies like “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “H2O: Just Add Water ” or “W.I.T.C.H.” A majority of my sources of entertainment — aside from Pokémon — are aimed toward the female demographic. When I was younger, the chances of going out and meeting another man with the same interests as me were slim. The few male friends I had would probably laugh at this article — if I didn’t hide it from them so I wouldn’t see them laughing.

While I’m over that type of embarrassment, it is still gut-wrenching when people close to me tell me to go out and play sports. Despite my obvious lack of interest in sports, because I am a man, people assume I want to watch or care about the latest game. I don’t like sports, March Madness brackets as an assign- when the teacher looked at my sheet of and regardless of how much society tells ment. I remember being too embarrassed teams and chuckled at my completely me I should, I probably never will. That to admit I didn’t know what March Mad- random choices. While the rest of the fact doesn’t make me any less of a man or ness was. My embarrassment only grew class was excited about the assignment, I undermine my masculinity.

Illustration by Steck Von

MARLON MCKAY Contributing Writer

Wed. October 31, 2018 15 THE CT STAFF EXECUTIVE EDITOR Zach Joachim joachimz@commonwealthtimes.org MANAGING EDITOR Georgia Geen geengr@commonwealthtimes.org NEWS EDITOR Nia Tariq news@commonwealthtimes.org

Midnight Snack by Erin Joo

SPORTS EDITOR Jessica Wetzler sports@commonwealthtimes.org SPECTRUM EDITOR Katie Bashista spectrum@commonwealthtimes.org OPINIONS EDITOR Caitlin Barbieri opinions@commonwealthtimes.org COPY EDITOR Saffeya Ahmed ahmeds@commonwealthtimes.org MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Erin Edgerton photography@commonwealthtimes.org ILLUSTRATIONS EDITOR Steck Von illustrations@commonwealthtimes.org ONLINE EDITOR Kayleigh Fitzpatrick fitzpatrickk@commonwealthtimes.org SPECIAL PROJECTS DIRECTOR Fadel Allassan allassanfg@commonwealthtimes.org STAFF WRITERS Logan Reardon, News reardonlj@vcu.edu Adam Cheek, Sports cheekan@vcu.edu

The Harvest by Karly Andersen

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Costume Party by Ellie Erhart

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

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

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