The Commonwealth Times; Sept. 4, 2019

COMMONWEALTHTIMES.ORG @theCT

THE INDEPENDENT PRESS OF VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY 2ⁿ place, weekly newspaper of the year — 2018 Pinnacle Awards

VOL. 61, NO. 3 SEPTEMBER 4, 2019

‘That pain is always going to be there.’

Students gather in the Compass to commemorate the life of Brandon Dorns, a pre-med student killed in a one-car accident in Goochland on Saturday. Photo by Jon Mirador

Hundreds gather to remember student killed in crash $12,000 raised for families, scholarship in honor of Brandon Dorns HANNAH EASON News Editor ANDREW RINGLE Managing Editor Hundreds of students gathered in the Compass on Tuesday night, but silence filled the air. It was occasionally broken by the sound of a lighter igniting a tea candle, or the sniffles of a mourning friend.

Friends, family and fraternity brothers came together to remember Brandon Dorns, a pre-med student killed in a one-car accident in Goochland on Saturday.

Brandon, 22, was driving east on I-64 Saturday morning when the car veered left, hit an embankment, overturned and caught fire. He died at the scene. A front-seat passenger, Abanoub F. Zaki, was taken to the hospital with serious injuries.

Zaki is a VCU student and a brother in the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. He sent a text message from the hospital to another fraternity brother, Hristo Bustamante, who read it aloud at the vigil.

“He lived such a beautiful life and treated people so well, as many of you all know,” Zaki said in the message.

Bustamante said Zaki also mentioned

having a conversation with Brandon about their own funerals just two weeks prior.

Brandon’s mother, Sherri Dorns, who spoke at the vigil, said this has been the longest she’s gone without talking to her son.

“Life is fragile, love each other, and call your parents, call your mother,” Sherri Dorns said to the crowd.

Senior Almira Zaky, a close friend of Brandon’s, sang Ariana Grande’s “My Everything” and Christina Perry’s “A Thousand Years” at the vigil. She met Brandon at the beginning of her freshman year, and she said they instantly became close.

Zaky was on her way to Philadelphia with a friend when she learned of the car accident. She said she spent five hours afterward in her stopped car, crying and making phone calls to some of Brandon’s closest friends. Brandon was set to graduate with Zaky in December.

“It just really saddens me that I wasn’t able to walk with him this semester, because we had been through everything together,” Zaky said. “But now I think, myself included, everyone, I think their purpose is a little more aligned, knowing that everything we do now is for him.

His fraternity, his close friends, it’s all for him.”

Phi Gamma Delta organized the memorial and started an online fundraiser in support of Brandon’s and Zaki’s families. According to the page, each family will receive 45% of the funds, and the remaining 10% will be used to establish the Brandon Dorns Memorial Scholarship. The GoFundMe raised more than $12,000, and $2,000 will fund the memorial scholarship for the next two years.

much people really cared about him and wanted the best for him,” Zaky said.

“It was everything that he would’ve wanted for himself to leave that kind of legacy and to be able to support his family.”

Michael Portillo, a member of Phi Gamma Delta, described the loss of Brandon as a “hole in his heart.”

“No matter how hard we try, no matter what we do, the prayers we make,” Portillo said, “that pain is always going to be there.”

Katey Mooney, a friend who met Brandon in 2017, shared memories of dressing up in Halloween costumes and I just think the success remembered his constant smile.

“When I found out that he had of that GoFundMe is passed,” Mooney said, “I was really super reflective on how shocked, and really angry.” much people loved him, Friend Quinten Baird said he met Brandon during their freshman year in and how much people 2015, and they often pulled all-nightreally cared about him ers, even when Brandon didn’t have any and wanted the best for homework. Other memories included Brandon staying in the hospital with him.”

Baird for hours.

Almira Zaky, friend of “Those friends don’t come into your Brandon Dorns life often,” Baird said. “When they do, hold them tight, cherish them, tell “I just think the success of that Go- them you love them, because tomorrow FundMe is super reflective on how isn’t promised.” much people loved him, and how

Alumna says lack of pregnancy resources affected her senior year The graduate says her daughter motivated her to finish her degree. Photo by Vaila DeYoung

2 The Commonwealth Times

Stories of the week

national: Walmart announced Tuesday it will reduce its gun and ammunition sales after 20 people were killed at an El Paso, Texas location. international: A transgender woman becomes the first to receive longterm residency in Japan.

Richmond City Council Districts

3 2

1 4 5

7 6

1st District 2nd District 3rd District 4th District 5th District 6th District 7th District 8th District 9th District

Andreas D. Addison Kimberly B. Gray Chris A. Hilbert, Council Vice President Kristen Nye Larson Open Ellen F. Robertson Cynthia I. Newbille, Council President Reva M. Trammell Michael J. Jones

9

8 Infographic by Jeffrey Pohanka

Poverty, transportation among key issues for students, professors in City Council election MAE OETJENS Contributing Writer HANNAH EASON News Editor

R

esources for the homeless population, increased bike lanes and funding for Richmond schools are among the issues that students and professors say will impact the 5th District election.

The 5th District was previously represented by Parker Agelasto, who resigned after moving out of the district last summer. The special election, set for Nov. 5, will determine who fills the remainder of Agelasto’s term, which ends Dec. 31, 2020.

Political science professor Christopher Saladino said despite limited polling information in this stage of the election, a clear front-runner will emerge “once campaigns really kick-off.”

“Dr. Thad Williamson has raised some substantial money for this early in the special election,” Saladino said in an email.

“And combined with his close relationship to Mayor Levar Stoney, this puts him in a front-runner position.”

Saladino said older residents may be familiar with Chuck Richardson due to his time on city council in the early 1990s.

“He was actually quite popular,” Saladino said. “But drug scandal ultimately hurt him enough that he resigned and actually served a prison sentence.”

Richardson held the seat from 1977 to 1995, before he was arrested for heroin distribution. His voting rights were restored in 2016.

Saladino, who teaches international relations and human security this semester, said many candidates have “compelling” backgrounds, including a clergy person, high school teacher, community organizer, entrepreneur and others.

Professor Alex Keena said in an email that transportation, infrastructure and the Navy Hill development project will be highly debated throughout the election.

“There is a big debate about elementary school rezoning,” Keena said. “In particular, there is a discussion about combining two of the elementary schools in the District — Fox and Cary — in order to diversify the schools and improve educational equity.”

Keena also said many constituents are concerned about the city’s spending priorities, which he says are due to a long history of funding problems for schools and education. A 5th Distict resident, he says he’s publicly supporting his former student Nicholas Da Silva in the race.

Many students were concerned with homelessness, as well as eviction and high poverty rates. Other issues include an improvement of public transportation and maintaining cleanliness around campus.Christine Reyes, co-president of VCU’s Latinx Student Association, said she wanted to see the city address

homelessness and improve infrastructure.

President of NextGen at VCU Meredith “It would be good if we could get a little Speet said she feels high poverty, eviction more like Lantinx inclusivity within the and homeless rates are being ignored. community itself, more, I guess, appreciaThe sophomore says NextGen plans on tion for the culture,” Reyes said. working with VCU to bring progressive candidates to campus.

“We want to work with VCU’s Department of Student Affairs to give an opportunity for progressive candidates to speak to the students,” Speet said.

There is a big debate First year graduate student Ju Lee about elementary said she wanted to see more bike lanes in school rezoning. In downtown Richmond, as she frequently travels between the Monroe Park and particular, there is MCV campuses. a discussion about She bikes to Franklin Street from her combining two of the house before heading downtown in order to feel safe on the roads. Lee, who lives elementary schools near Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School, in the District — Fox says otherwise she has to be careful biking and Cary — in order on Broad and Leigh streets.

Mass communications major Luto diversify the cas Greeves said he hoped to see more schools and improve student-friendly transportation, such as educational equity.” scooters and bikes.

“I know some people aren’t big fans of Alex Keena, VCU professor scooters,” Greeves said. “But I feel like it’s actually a really cheap and effective method Reyes said Richmond should show more for students to be getting around and seeing appreciation for its diverse cultures. the city.”

Sophomore Navdeep Sekhon said she’s Biology major Michelle Balderrama concerned with the city’s crime level and re- said the cleanliness of the city could be imsources for the homeless population. proved with more receptacles.

“I feel like the homeless population has “Instead of large dumpsters, more trash gone up in Richmond,” said the psychology cans to recycle and throw away trash would major, who hopes to see more job openings be good,” the freshman said. for people in need.

Wed. September 4, 2019 3

MEET THE CANDIDATES OF THE 5TH DISTRICT Richmond City Council’s 5th District will hold a special election Nov. 5. The elected member will fill the remainder of former councilman Parker Agelasto’s term, which ends Dec. 31, 2020.

Compiled by contributing writers Anna Madigan and Sarah Elson

Images courtesy of the candidates

NICHOLAS DA SILVA

STEPHANIE LYNCH

JER’MYKEAL MCCOY

REV. ROBIN MINES

After surviving an attack in Charlottesville, in which a white nationalist drove a car into a crowd of people protesting the “Unite the Right” rally, Nicholas Da Silva decided politics could help him make a change.

The recent VCU graduate’s candidacy centers around a five point plan, addressing tenant empowerment, public school funding, access to public transportation, public housing development and police accountability.

Da Silva’s idea for a Richmond Police civilian review board was influenced by the shooting of high school teacher Marcus David Peters, who was killed by police in May 2018.

“Police accountability is the first thing I would want to do when I get to the office because it is long overdue in Richmond,” Da Silva said.

Da Silva’s campaign is backed by Lee Carter, a 50th District representative in the Virginia House of Delegates, and several other Virginia politicians.

After losing a race for student body president at VCU, Stephanie Lynch thought she would never run for a leadership position again. In graduate school, she wrote her thesis on negative experiences that deter women from running in academia.

“I’m proving my own hypothesis wrong,” Lynch said.

This is her first time running for political office, but Lynch has worked with many Virginia politicians. In 2015, she worked with Tim Kaine, Mark Warner, Terry McAuliffe and Ralph Northam for Medicaid expansion.

Lynch has a background in social work and experience advocating for addiction recovery and mental health.

If elected, Lynch wants to fully fund Richmond’s parks and rec, help the city become sustainable and implement trauma-informed care into Richmond Public Schools, training teachers and administrators to recognize and respond to trauma, such as abuse, neglect and bullying.

Rev. Robin Mines is a minister at Hood Temple AME Zion Church, an African Methodist Episcopal church. Mines is most concerned with safety and the education system in Richmond. If elected, Mines said she would like to establish “community schools that offer more than just academic curriculum.”

The Richmond native grew up during the civil rights era in the 5th District. Mines believes an effort across all denominations can bring back a strong sense of community in her home district.

“I am pushing for church collaboration across denominational and color lines to pull together on missions across the community,” Mines said.

This is Mines’ first time running for political office. She said the biggest challenge to her campaign is finance. She feels that if she can raise money for a campaign, then she should put that money back into the community.

dasilvaforcouncil.com

electstephanielynch.com

Jer’Mykeal McCoy’s campaign focuses on affordable housing, workforce development and education.

McCoy is a business development manager at Schutt Sports and serves as the president for the Urban League of Greater Richmond Young Professionals.

The league focuses on civil rights and urban advocacy. In 2017, McCoy served on the advisory council for Richmond 300: A Guide for Growth. The council consisted of 21 group leaders tasked with updating Richmond’s master plan.

McCoy is also a member of the Black Business Alliance of Virginia and the Life Church RVA. He earned a bachelor’s degree in mass communications from Tennessee State University and a master’s in sports industry management from Georgetown University.

In 2014, McCoy was a postgraduate intern for the NAACP in its Office of Government Relations.

McCoy did not respond to requests for comment. mccoyforrva.com

CHUCK RICHARDSON

GRAHAM STURM

MAMIE TAYLOR

THAD WILLIAMSON

Chuck Richardson is running for the 5th District seat after spending 24 years outside politics. His campaign is focused on accountability.

“I would like the citizens, first of all, to be better served,” Richardson said. “I would like for them to know that as long as the doors of city hall are closed, if Chuck Richardson is there, they will be there.”

Richardson addressed constituents who are reluctant to trust him after his resignation in 1995.

“Tell them that people said in those days, I was the best councilman ever elected,” Richardson said.

Richardson held the seat from 1977 to 1995, before he was arrested for heroin distribution. His voting rights were restored in 2016.

Richardson also said that the narrative surrounding addiction needs to be changed.

“It’s a medical problem with a criminal element of effect, and we should treat it that way — we don’t,” Richardson said.

Graham Sturm, who grew up in Chesterfield County, is a history teacher and department chair at Armstrong Highschool in Richmond. He is a member of the LGBTQ community, and if If he were elected, Sturm would be Richmond City Council’s first openly gay member.

Sturm’s campaign is focused on education and rebuilding Richmond schools, which he says will require changes in the priorities of Richmond City Council. He says schools need to be rezoned in an equitable way.

“We can set priorities where we prioritize our needs over our wants, and also following that model, schools fall into the things that we need,” Sturm said. “Making sure that we rebuild our schools, rather than continue to kick the can down the road.”

As a high school teacher, Sturm witnessed the need firsthand for better schools in Richmond, which motivated him to enter the 5th District race.

Mamie Taylor’s political career began while she was teaching for Richmond Public Schools.

“I was concerned about the condition of the facilities, the curriculum not being aligned with instruction, and children ... not being prepared for work, military or higher learning,” Taylor said.

That prompted Taylor to run for the 5th District seat on the Richmond School Board in 2012. After four years there, she fell short of reelection in 2016 and turned her sights to the open 5th District city council seat.

Taylor’s candidacy is focused on tax reform for Dominion Energy.

“As of now, the utility company providing services to the city pays a flat rate, regardless of cost incurred, and the Richmond taxpayers make up the difference,” Taylor said. “Those savings generated from revenues received should definitely be passed on to the constituents accordingly.”

Taylor says her financial support comes from the community, and the endorsement process is “just the beginning.”

University of Richmond professor Thad Williamson is campaigning for economic opportunity and to improve Richmond Public Schools.

The professor says the issues are linked, and helping economically stressed parents can help their children too.

“It’s hard to have your schools be as successful as you would like when the children bring so many challenges and traumatic experiences from home,” Williamson said. “So, I think we have to both invest in schools, and we have to invest in the entire community.”

Williamson served as co-chair of the Maggie Walker Initiative for Expanding Opportunity and Fighting Poverty from June 2014 to May 2016. The initiative worked to create the Office of Community Wealth Building, which focuses on reducing the poverty rate.

As senior policy advisor in the office of Mayor Levar Stoney, he developed the RVA Education Compact, which set academic achievement goals on par or better than state benchmarks.

grahamrva5.com

facebook.com/MamieTaylorForThe5th

thadforrva.com

4 The Commonwealth Times

Alumni say prenatal resources limited for pregnant students HANNAH EASON News Editor When Samantha Nacman found out she was pregnant in May of last year, she searched online for resources dedicated to pregnant VCU students. She didn’t find much.

“I think it definitely makes it difficult for students,” Nacman said. “It makes it easier for students to drop out.”

The marketing major, who graduated in May, said her academic advisor sent her to someone else and was told about lactation rooms on campus and benefits she had at the Child Development Center.

“I feel like a lot of people didn’t really know how to react,” Nacman said. “They didn’t know if they should be supportive, or just let us do our own thing.”

While Student Health provides many sexual and reproductive health services, it doesn’t offer prenatal care. All full-time graduate and undergraduate students have to pay a $112 health fee, which covers visits to Student Health.

Medical Director of University Student Health Services Margaret Roberson said prenatal care is “not in their scope of practice.”

“We do not have any OB-GYN physicians on our staff,” Roberson said in a May interview. “We can provide primary care services for pregnant women, but we are not qualified to carry prenatal care.”

Roberson said pregnant students are pro- Samantha Nacman says her daughter, Kora, was a source of motivation to finish her senior year of college. Photo by Vaila DeYoung vided with a list of health providers, hospitals and health departments in the area. Health Among the resources available for Klee says resources available at the uni- charges $1,250 for people unaffiliated with Services confirmed over the phone Tuesday parenting students are the two lactation versity today, such as the Wellness Center’s the school. VCU Health Child Care at Lora that the protocol hasn’t changed since May. rooms at Cabell Library, where mothers Stall Street Journal, could have helped her M. Robins Family Learning Center detercan nurse or pump breast milk, but fathers substantially. mines tuition according to the child’s age. can’t use the space. The library website “For those students who do find them‘NO SUPPORT’ states the rooms are reserved for breastselves pregnant, and they do want to finish When Alycia Engrisch took a home feeding women and their babies, and faschool, we need to find out how we can inpregnancy test during her freshman year in thers can bottle feed babies throughout the tegrate child care to help students be more 2009, it came back positive. Then 19, she library building. successful,” Klee said. sought out one of her only resources, UniPregnant on Campus, a site for pregnant Nacman, who had her baby in DecemI feel like a lot of people versity Student Health Services, to guide her and parenting college students, states that ber, says more financing resources should be didn’t really know how next steps. in the United States, 3.4 million undergradavailable for pregnant students. At the time, to react. They didn’t Engrisch, who majored in biology when uate college students are mothers, and 1.4 her mother’s insurance did not cover her she was at VCU, says she was only given million undergraduate college students are prenatal care. know if they should be resources for adoption and abortion by a fathers. Under the website’s resources for “If I didn’t know that I could have Medsupportive, or just let us nurse. She says no one gave her informa- the VCU area, there are 55 Virginia adopicaid, I would’ve paid out of pocket to have do our own thing.” tion on what to do if she wanted to raise tion clinics listed, but no university-affiliatthis baby, and I would’ve been in debt for her child and have a healthy pregnancy. She ed prenatal services are included. the rest of my life, on top of student debt,” Samantha Nacman, graduate said her professors were unaccommodating Jenn Klee, a senior English major, said Nacman said. and mother and assumed she wasn’t coming back the she recommends VCU offer free child care Nacman says her daughter, Kora — who next semester. for students to encourage them to finish is now nine months old — was one of the “There was no support from VCU,” she school, now that she is a mother of six and “I don’t regret that I had a kid, I don’t re- main reasons Nacman pushed through and said. “I felt like people looked down on me back at VCU almost 20 years after getting gret that I raised my children,” Klee said, “but finished school. because I was pregnant.” pregnant in 2000.

I do regret that I threw my opportunity away “I can do this, and I can keep doing this, Engrisch, who now works as a registered “I didn’t know who to talk to. I didn’t without really taking the time to research and because it’s all for her,” Nacman said. nurse, continued her education at Bryant know anyone else who was pregnant or talk about it.” & Stratton College in New York. Her son, had kids and was doing school,” Klee The VCU Child Development Center, at Read the full version of this story at Delvin, was able to stay close by through the said. “I didn’t have any friend who 1128 Floyd Ave., offers child care to uni- commonwealthtimes.org school’s day care. could relate.” versity affiliates for $1,150 per month, and

More than 50 years after it was built, Cabaniss Hall is vacant ANYA SCZERZENIE Contributing Writer Cabaniss Hall, a community-style residence hall that formerly held VCU freshmen, is vacant this year, according to housing spokeswoman Jessica Buchanan.

“It’s not currently being used as a dorm,” Buchanan said.

The 10-story building is on the MCV campus. It housed 423 students when it was active. According to the VCU Housing website, it featured single and double rooms with community-style hall bathrooms.

The hall is no longer listed on the VCU Housing website, although it is still marked on Google Maps as Cabaniss Hall.

A look inside the building reveals that it is not currently inhabited, with rooms full

of empty chairs, recycling bins and other signs of cleanup.

Students who have lived in Cabaniss in the past said the residence hall had issues, including signs of mold.

“When I stayed in there my freshman year, that’s when I saw mold. Hopefully they renovate it,” said Regina Dixon, a second-year dental student. “It’s a good structure. … I think one of their biggest problems was that things weren’t working.”

This change comes a year after the construction of Gladding Residence Center, known as GRC, which predominantly houses freshmen.

In August, following Cabaniss’ last year housing students, the Campus Connector concluded its routes. VCU signed a threeyear, $4.65 million contract with GRTC to increase bus ridership. It took effect in June.

The VCU Master Plan includes the “proposed demolition” of the residence hall, but it is unclear when the building will come down. Photo by Wessam Hazaymeh It is unclear when Cabaniss will be torn down, but the VCU Master Plan includes plans for the “proposed demolition.” The space occupied by Cabaniss may become a pedestrian plaza in the future.

“The proposed demolition of Cabaniss

Hall will provide for a strong pedestrian connection from 8th Street,” page 85 of the Master Plan states. “While a main entrance from the proposed Transdisciplinary Neurosciences Building will help activate the new pedestrian plaza.”

Wed. September 4, 2019 5

Stat of the week

Junior midfielder Samantha Jerabek logged 13 shots over women’s soccer’s last two games.

Sideline prop rewards good teamwork NOAH FLEISCHMAN Sports Editor

for how they act and how they treat each other.”

Rogers said the oar Walk into a volleyball has become an integral practice or match, and part of the volleyball prosomething will stick out on gram and of their culture. the sideline: a yellow oar.

At the end of the season, Whether it’s propped up the team gives out the “oar against the bench during award” which is given to the practice or in the hands of best teammate, Rogers said. a player during a match, the The award is a miniature veroar is always present. sion of the oar seen on the The yellow paddle, simisideline and the entire team lar to those found on a casigns it for the recipient. noe, is more than just a prop The oar is unusual and for sideline celebrations, it unique to Rogers and the has a deeper meaning. program, which means it Coach Jody Rogers said surprises players when they the oar “means we’re going see it for the first time. in the right direction” and “I first saw it when I was that the whole team has to on my visit and I was like do their jobs to be successful.

‘What does that have to do “They have this symbol with volleyball?’”said junior and it means that they can’t libero Olivia Martin, who take plays off, they can’t be a was the first to receive the bad teammate one day and oar this season. good the other,” Rogers said.

Martin transferred to “They need to be consistentVCU this season from Inly growing and being good dianapolis. teammates.”

“When I saw coach with Rogers brought the oar to it I was confused, then Richmond from her previous when she told us what it school, Indianapolis Univermeant, it connected all the sity, where it was an importdots,” senior opposite hitter ant part of the program.

Vicky Giommarini said.

“It was our culture, about The oar has become a being a great teammate,” staple on the sideline of Rogers said. “I just thought matches, both on the road it would be great for the and at the Siegel Center. situation here at VCU since Rogers said that the oar is we always talk about being used on the bench as a prop a great teammate.”

Players on the bench celebrate a point holding the oar in the win over High Point on Tuesday. Photo by Jon Mirador either saying “swim away” or The oar is earned by dif“do something crazy.” ferent players each week based on the kind something nice at practice or off the court.

“It keeps them engaged with the game The oar carries expectations — of leadof teammate they have been the week prior. because sometimes when girls come off “It’s never usually the best kid on the ership and responsibility.

After each week, the player who has the oar team or they had a great game or a great and they’re sitting on the bench they’re not “They need to just embody that and selects who gets it the following week. The re- week, it’s more of just being a great team- be a great teammate for the next person,” paying attention,” Rogers said. “I think that cipient might have done something generous, mate or a great person,” Rogers said.

Rogers said. “They have to take ownership they dial in when they have that oar.”

Sneed’s record-breaking night leads Rams over Panthers NILE MCNAIR Contributing Writer

Senior opposite hitter Vicky Giommarini recorded six kills in the win over High Point.

Photo by Jon Mirador

think that will progress as the season moves on,” coach Jody Rogers said.

The slower tempo made the second set Volleyball swept High Point in three much closer; at one point the set score sets 3-0, bouncing back from a loss to Ohio was tied at 24 apiece. Nonetheless, the State on Saturday.

Rams came through in the clutch, winIn the first set, the Panthers answered ning off a serve from sophomore setter each run the Rams made, keeping the score Dani Jo David. close. The Rams pulled away in the set beVCU took a commanding 2-point lead hind senior middle blocker Jasmin Sneed’s into the third set with the opportunity to record-setting night, becoming the all-time put the match away. The Rams jumped out blocks leader. in the set with an 8-1 lead to start.

The Rams took the first set 25-18.

The Rams’ lead continued to grow, as The second set was played at a slower they took the set 25-12 to win the match. pace with more back and forth between VCU played with the lead the entire match, points. Redshirt-senior middle blockers never trailing the Panthers.

Jaelyn Jackson and Kat Young both logged “I thought we came out really strong big blocks in the set for the Rams. right away, I didn’t think we were go“But Kat ... has been killing it on the ing to be because of first-game jitters at right side as you can see, it’s just nice to home, figured we’d take a little while to have all the little bits and pieces but we settle in but they did a great job tonight,” need to just bring it more together, and I Rogers said.

6 The Commonwealth Times

The Rams recorded 15 shots with three on frame in the loss to LIU. Photo by Alessandro Latour

Down a man, offense sputters against LIU

ANDY RIDDLER Contributing Writer Men’s soccer fell to LIU 1-0 Monday night, the Rams’ second match in three days, in a sluggish affair with few offensive chances.

VCU controlled the possession for most of the first 30 minutes, and it led to a golden opportunity on a breakaway for redshirt-junior forward Biska Biyombo.

Biyombo collided with the goalkeeper, who came out to challenge him. The referee gave the Democratic Republic of Congo native a red card, and he was ejected from the match, a call coach Dave Giffard wasn’t happy with in the moment.

The Rams only had three shots on goal, two of them in the final minutes. Giffard said the offensive deficiencies can partially be attributed to a lack of practice time early in the season.

“Although we created a lot of pressure in and around the goal, some of the details of how to manufacture chances when

Redshirt-junior forward Biska Biyombo returned this season after only playing in five games last season due to injury. Photo by Jon Mirador you’re chasing it or down a man, or in this case both, we haven’t done anything with,” Giffard said.

The teams went into halftime scoreless, with VCU’s only shot on net coming from

redshirt-senior midfielder Myles Brown in the 44th minute.

The tie did not last long into the second half; LIU was awarded a corner kick in the 57th minute. The corner bounced around in

the box until it found LIU forward Chris Capaldo and he kicked it off a VCU player and into the back of the net.

The miscues on offense also were attributed to the absence of key players, such as freshman midfielder Celio Pompeu, and having players not in their normal position all night.

“With all the guys that we are down, we’re playing guys so far out of position, and they are doing their best. Two of the premier attacking midfielders in the country are both out. ... In three weeks, we’ve scored five,” Giffard said.

VCU controlled possession and piled on with nine more shot attempts in the final 30 minutes, but only two were on target. Junior goalkeeper Mario Sequeira made three saves to keep the Rams in the match.

The Rams will host Saint Francis (Pa.) Friday at 7 p.m.

Late strike leads Rams over Seahawks

NOAH FLEISCHMAN Sports Editor

“We create a ton of attacking opportunities, so we’re not going to step away In an ear l y season from what we do well and matchup of unbeatens at the goals are going to come,” Sports Backers Stadium, Martin said. “We’re just gowomen’s soccer knocked ing to keep creating chances.” off UNCW 2-1 after a late UNCW’s Morgan Nanstrike by junior midfielder ni tied the game at one Karen Lohrmann. apiece, with the ball bouncLohrmann ripped a low ing off the crossbar and into shot from outside the 18 to the back of the net in the the far post past Shneider 78th minute. to put the Rams up in the After the Seahawks tied 86th minute. the match, the Rams reJunior midfielder Samained composed on the mantha Jerabek rocketed Senior midfielder Alyssa Tallent has logged three shots this season. CT file photo field working toward ana shot in the 20th minute other goal. that UNCW’s goalkeeper Sydney SchneiJerabek had another scoring chance in luck to hit the post a few times. We “I think that we’ve got experience. We’re der saved, but redshirt-senior forward the 52nd minute after she blasted the ball should have put it away earlier, we let more of a veteran squad, and sometimes bad Amanda Tredway was there to hammer the from just outside the 18, Schneider deflect- them back in and then to come back with things happen and teams tie it up,” Martin rebound home. The tally was Tredway’s first ed it off the post. The Chesterfield, Virginia, Karen’s strike to go up with five minutes. said. “You just have to refocus and get back of the 2019 campaign. native logged a team-high seven shots in Just a gritty performance, and that’s going to it, and that’s what our team did today.”

The Seahawks could not generate much of- the contest. to take us places.”

The Rams outshot UNCW 18-7 in the fensively in the first half as the Rams outshot Minutes later, Tredway launched a shot Sophomore forward Idelys Vazquez re- contest with six on frame. VCU edged the UNCW 8-3 at the half, including four on goal. off the far post in another scoring opportu- ceived a cross into the box, redirecting it to Seahawks in corners as well 9-6.

Possession was almost equal in the first nity for the Rams. the far post, and it clipped the post going 45 minutes, as the Rams edged the Sea“I saw a lot of grit,” coach Lindsey into Schneider’s hands, denying the Rams The Rams will travel to play at Wake Forest hawks 51-49%.

Martin said. “We had a little bit of bad another goal in the 75th minute.

Thursday at 7 p.m.

Wed. September 4, 2019 7

Men’s cross country finished fourth in the Spider Invitational with a score of 115 points. Photo courtesy of VCU Athletics

Catlett leads Rams to fourth place finish RYAN GRUBE Staff Writer Men’s and women’s cross country opened the season Saturday morning at the 2019 Spider Alumni Open. Near perfect weather conditions at Pole Green Park yielded positive results for both teams.

MEN The men took fourth in the team standings, finishing with 115 total points in the opening 5k race Saturday.

The Rams had a quick start, but didn’t have any runners finish in the top 20. Nicole Cook, director of cross country, said she is encouraged by the team’s performance in its first race.

“I always want them to be able to compete, but this is just the beginning for us,” Cook said. “I’m very happy with the way

they executed through the first mile. Now, we just have to work through finishing and getting everybody ready for faster paces.”

Senior Bryce Catlett was the first to cross the line for VCU, finishing 24th with a time of 16:20.0. Catlett was Senior Judith White finished the Spider Invitational with a time of 12:12.4. Photo courtesy of VCU Athletics followed by freshman Noah Peterson and sophomore Sean Moulton in Much like the men’s team, the women Fellow senior Delaney Savedge was the 31st and 32nd place. The pair clocked in began the race with several runners near next Ram to cross the line for her team. Satimes of 16:31.8 and 16:34.2, respectively. the lead pack. Cook said she was happy vedge earned a 20th-place finish with her Sophomores Archie Blaes and Hish- with the team’s commitment to running 11:52.9 mark. am Vohra rounded out the top five scorers in groups.

Freshmen Kasandra Aulenbach and Reyfor the Rams.

“I’m very pleased with the women for na Vazquez-Miller and senior Judith White sure,” Cook said. “Everybody did a good job were the final three scorers for VCU, which with staying in there and just continuing to concluded the meet with 100 total points.

WOMEN pack up throughout the whole race.”

The women’s side adopted a similar Senior Ashley Brown started the line Next up for the Rams is the Mason Invitaracing style to the men’s on their way to a of VCU finishers for the women in the tional at Oatlands Plantation in Leesburg, consecutive fourth-place team finish for the two-mile race. She finished with a time of Va., on Sept. 13. black and gold.

11:37.3 to take home eighth place.

PRESS BOX

Why we shouldn’t judge Andrew Luck

JARON NUTTER Contributing Writer

When Andrew Luck announced his retirement from the NFL on Aug. 24, the backlash from fans and sports media was immediate. The 29-year-old decided to call it quits due to the grueling process of injuries and rehab.

His own fans booed him as he walked off the field for the final time.

Many journalists, such as Doug Gottlieb of Fox Sports, ridiculed Luck for his abrupt decision.

On Twitter, Gottlieb posted, “Retiring cause rehabbing is ‘too hard’ is the most millennial thing ever #AndrewLuck.”

The tweet garnered more than 1,000 retweets and more than 10,000 likes. It also started a firestorm on Twitter, with debates on whether Luck’s retirement was warranted. Former NFL quarterback Troy Aikman came to Luck’s defense and countered Gottlieb’s insensitive tweet.

“That’s total bullshit Doug. What qualifies you to decide how someone should live their life? So you’re now the authority on what motivates Andrew Luck? And if his decisions don’t fit into what you think is best for him then you rip him? Guess that keeps you employed on FS1. Nice,” Aikman tweeted.

I agree with Aikman that fans and media shouldn’t judge or blame Andrew

“I know everybody wants to know why I retired, but it’s more so, I put a lot into the game and it’s taken a lot out of me and that’s where I’m at right now,” Johnson said. “I’m not going to get into the specifics of the things that I feel it’s taken away, but it definitely feels good, I guess I can say for myself, to spend more time around the family, my son, I just got married. So things are going good right now.”

Fans and sports media were also shocked by Johnson’s decision, but he didn’t receive anything close to the amount of hate that Luck did when he made his decision. It’s unfair to bash Luck for his retirement when other players in similar positions are not treated the same way.

Illustration by Lindsay Hart Luck’s decision to retire was shocking but understandable. I have never gone Luck if they happen to disagree with his Other NFL legends such as Barry through the things Luck has experidecision. The fact is, the only people who Sanders and Calvin Johnson also retired enced in his career, so I shouldn’t judge know what Luck has been through are early. Sanders retired from the NFL him for his decision. Fans and sports Luck himself and the Indianapolis Colts. at 31 years old in 1999. Although fans media need to understand athletes are We don’t know the background of his rehab were outraged, Sanders did not endure people too. Whatever they decide to do or the details of his injuries. the backlash from the sports media Luck with their careers should be up to them, More often than not, the people disre- has received. Another iconic NFL player, and we shouldn’t make them feel bad specting Andrew Luck for his decision have Calvin Johnson, retired at 30 years old for doing what they believe is best for never been through the injury and rehab- in 2016. Johnson, like Sanders, ironically themselves, even though it is sad to see bing process he’s had to go through in his played for the Lions. According to the another promising and talented player career. It is insensitive and rude to judge Detroit Free Press, Johnson’s reason for call it quits so early yet again. and form opinions about something you’ve ending his career was simply that he lost never experienced. his love for the game.

8 The Commonwealth Times

On this day

23-time Grammy award winner Beyoncé Knowles was born in Houston, Texas.

Botanical garden celebrates holiday with free admission TAYLOR TOBEN Contributing Writer To celebrate the Labor Day holiday, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden offered free admission to all ages on Monday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with activities and attractions for both families and adults looking for something to do.

Within the garden, there are more than 50 acres of vibrant plant life, split into separate garden areas, each showcasing different plants, fresh ponds and temporary exhibits and activities. From aloe plants, cacti and agave to shrub rosas and skyduster palms, the park is packed with endless beautiful sights.

For kids, there were hoola hoop stations,

craft stations, playgrounds and tree houses, popsicles, Lego stations and a mini waterpark for the heat.

One popular limited time attraction, “Butterflies Live,” submerges visitors in a misty glasshouse, home to tropical butterflies. The walk-through exhibit shows hundreds of butterflies flying, eating and landing on lucky guests in their carefully constructed sanctuary.

Visitors can learn about the different species, including their preferred habitats and lifestyles. Many of these species can only be seen within the confines of the sanctuary in the park, as many don’t naturally inhabit Richmond.

The “Butterflies Live” exhibit in the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden opened its doors for the Monday holiday. Photos by Jon Mirador

Wed. September 4, 2019 9

What to look for at September’s First Friday GEORGIA GEEN Executive Editor The inaugural First Friday, Sept. 6, of the school year is this week, and it’s also likely to be the last before cold weather kicks in next month. Spread your time among exhibition openings on Broad Street and beyond, and grab a bite to eat or grab a drink when all the walking gets old.

POP-UPS En Theos 128 W. Broad St., 5-9 p.m.

Shop the bohemian selections and sip on drinks at boutique En Theos’ pop-up store between stops at galleries down Broad Street.

Hand-Made in RVA 101 W. Broad St., 6-11 p.m.

Visitors can shop local goods and eat vegan food at this pop-up run by Hand-Made in RVA, a market that showcases the work of artists and artisans of color.

NEW EXHIBITS Black Iris Gallery 321 W. Broad St., 4 p.m.-midnight The walls of Black Iris will be painted — you guessed it, black — and the lights dimmed to set the tone for the works from

the featured artists. The exhibition aims to shed light on what lies in the shadows.

Elegba Folklore Society 101 E. Broad St. 5-9 p.m.

The cultural center of Elegba Folklore Society is opening its doors on First Friday for visitors, offering music, food and framed prints for sale. They aim to provide educational opportunities through the arts, and its namesake comes from the Yoruba cosmology of West Africa.

Visual Arts Center of Richmond 1812 W. Main St., 5:30-8 p.m.

An exhibition from New York artist Damien Davis examines the role of wood in transportation, in historical contexts, such as the mid-Atlantic slave trade, and modern ones, like e-commerce. The exhibition was curated by Jennifer-Navva Milliken, and it debuted at the Center for Art in Wood in Philadelphia this year.

Gallery5 200 W. Marshall St., 7 p.m.-midnight “Mother India” is Gallery5’s first Indian art show, set to feature classical and contemporary live music and art — which includes paintings, photos and crafts — will be on display in the venue’s gallery room. The night will conclude with a Bollywood dance party from DJ Carlito, and the opening is one-night-only.

See something SOMETHING TO EAT Charm School Social Club 311 W. Broad Street, 2-11 p.m.

With an ever-changing menu that includes ice cream flavors such as Thai Iced Tea, ginger lime and vegan options, Charm School offers an attractive aesthetic and a cool break from walking around town on a summer night.

Tarrant’s 1 W. Broad Street, 11 a.m.-midnight The restaurant’s happy hour ends right as the events begin, but if you’d like a quick bite in between galleries, stop by Tarrant’s for their chalkboard specials — grab a taco or a slice of pizza, or both.

Switch Pop-up Bar 13 W. Broad Street, 5 p.m.-1 a.m.

Grab a drink and some food while you take in the beauty of this spot. A bar and art space divided into two floors, each with its own theme. On the main floor you’ve got “The Rabbit’s Glass,” an Alice in Wonderland theme that you just have to see to believe. On the basement level, nostalgia for the 90s with “1993,” featuring murals of pop culture moments and icons such as the Notorious B.I.G. and Agent Scully from the “X-Files.”

Walter Chidozie Anyanwu contributed to this report.

BRANDON’S ANGLE

‘The Nightingale’ will leave you breathless BRANDON SHILLINGFORD Contributing Writer Colonization is one of the greatest evils — it has the potential to rip apart the very fabric of a nation and decimate its faith, economy and most importantly, its people.

In “The Nightingale,” Jennifer Kent’s sophomore effort following 2014’s “The Babadook,” she explores its effects on family, and in particular, a young mother named Clare, played by Aisling Franciosi. After facing a tragedy at the hands of British colonizers in 19th century Australia, Clare embarks on a grueling quest through the Tasmanian wilderness to find the men who took everything from her.

The thesis of the film could be described as a study of how white men and their quest to colonize in the 1800s have a detrimental effect on the well-being of women and people of color. Kent focuses on this struggle of Clare and her aboriginal guide, Billy (Baykali Ganambarr).

A fulfilling aspect of the film is the relationship between Billy and Clare, who at first hate each other due to the inherent contempt the Austrialian Aborigines and white colonizers have for each other. But a companionship forms built on loss and shared trauma.

Franciosi and Ganambarr give revelatory performances centered around rage and hatred, and blossoming into compassion and forgiveness. Franciosi shines by sinking her teeth into exceptionally strong material.

The audience sees Clare experience grief through increasingly disturbing dream sequences laced throughout the film. Franciosi’s commanding screen presence works well with Ganambarr, another standout.

UPCOMING EVENTS SUN. 9/8 ‘The Mountain’ Screening at the Byrd

The Byrd Theatre will host a screening of “The Mountain” starring Jeff Goldblum and Tye Sheridan. The screening will have an introduction from director Rick Alverson as well as a Q&A after the film.

To get tickets, visit byrdtheatre.org 7:15 - 9:30 p.m.

The Byrd Theatre & Foundation (2908 W. Cary St.) $5.

TUES. 9/10 Hypnotist show

The Activities Programming Broad is hosting a hypnotist show as a part of its Weeks of Welcome activities.

7 - 9pm University Student Commons (907 Floyd Ave.) Free.

Do something

THURS. 9/5 LGBTQIA+ Mix and Mingle

Join the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs in an event to learn more about the LGBTQIA+ community.

Noon - 1:30 p.m.

University Student Commons (907 Floyd Ave.) Free.

THURS. 9/5 Asian Pacific Student Alliance First Meeting and Potluck

The Asian Pacific Student Alliance is hosting its first general body meeting and potluck dinner. Bringing food isn’t required but encouraged in order to attend. For more information, contact Serena Truong at truongsn@vcu.edu.

7 - 9 p.m.

University Student Commons, Shockoe Room (907 Floyd Ave.)

FRI. 9/6 - 9/8 Armenian Food Festival

The St. James Armenian Church is hosting the 61st annual Armenian Food Festival. Tours of the church will be given at the event. For specific event times, LETTER TO THE EDITOR visit www.armenianfoodfestival.com.

St. James Armenian Church (834 Pepper Ave.) Free.

Learn something

FRI. 9/5 Illustration by Meg Rogers

A powerful scene in the film takes place towards the end, where Billy and Clare take shelter in an old white couple’s cottage. The husband invites Billy to eat dinner at the table, going against the wife’s original demand to eat on the floor.

It’s the degrading scene we’ve watched repeatedly, in which the white captor shows “compassion” by displaying general human decency. But just when you expect Billy to thank the husband, he breaks down in tears and says, “This is my land, this is my home.”

It’s one of the toughest scenes I’ve ever had to watch, but also among the richest and most rewarding.

Going into “The Nightingale,” I heard a lot of warnings about its brutal depiction of sexual assault. The film contains some of the most gruesome representations of rape and violence I’ve ever seen.

Throughout the film, the audience is subject to these horrific acts repeatedly, and I wouldn’t blame anyone compelled to walk out of “The Nightingale.” With that being

said, I think there’s a lot to say about why these scenes were included and their purpose in the film.

The Black War was a point in Australian history when acts of appalling violence were committed against women and people of color. With Kent being a white artist, she could’ve easily swept this part of history to the side. But she wanted the audience to sit and witness the horrors unfold.

I normally don’t like calling films “brave,” but Kent’s direction is relentless, clinical and unforgiving. She combines spectacular artistry with a willingness to delve into a side of her country’s history that’s absolutely reprehensible. Because of that, we got one of the most disturbingly brilliant and bold pieces of cinema this century.

“The Nightingale” is a stone-cold Tasmanian gothic horror-thriller masterpiece that will leave you speechless long after you leave the theater.

Rating: 5/5

Real Stories From the Virginia Poison Center

The Medical Center Health and Wellness Library will host an event in which professionals from the Virginia Poison Center will discuss poison prevention and real-life stories. To register, visit vcu.libcal. com/event/5761821. For more information, contact K.J. Ricasata at ricasatakj@ vcu.edu or 804-828-2432.

Noon - 1 p.m.

VCU Health Gateway Building, G-112 (1200 E. Marshall St.)

FRI. 9/6 Global Cafe

Learn about the Global Education office and VCU Globe. Meet international students visiting VCU with a potluck and social luncheon.

12:30 - 2 p.m.

West Grace North (830 W. Grace St.)

10 The Commonwealth Times

Quote of the week

“I believe in being strong when everything seems to be going wrong. I believe that happy girls are the prettiest girls. I believe that tomorrow is another day, and I believe in miracles.”

— Audrey Hepburn

Illustration by Lauren Johnson

Two blue lines can mean the end of the road for some VCU students TAGWA SHAMMET Opinions Editor

lines are disrespected by family, friends, institutions — everyone. Students who become pregnant have to deal with the social wo blue lines that represent a consequences of parenthood. Friends start known miracle. Two blue lines that, to care less and less, especially on a Saturday to many, symbolize the beginning of night when the entire premise for the weeka life. But they can also mean the end of a end is a night out drinking. Family might mother’s college career. give a cold shoulder if the pregnancy goes Unplanned pregnancies are common in against their morals. the United States. According to Dr. Adrienne Bonham in The Shriver Report, about half aren’t planned. Having a child unexpectedly can be frightening for new parents; raising a child requires attention, money and a whole lot of emotional, mental and “There are students in physical stability. Even couples who plan your classes, walking to have kids feel unprepared. around the Compass, Aside from recovering from the physical stress of labor, mothers have to dedicate sitting in the booth their entire lives to this new person. Fathers, next to you doing the too, ought to give their undivided attention impossible: parenting. to this new life they’ve brought into the world. In fact, these all-consuming obligaIt’s eye-opening to tions attached to parenthood have turned know there are people people away from having children. my age who aren’t There are students in your classes, walking around the Compass, sitting in the booth worried about their next next to you doing the impossible: parenting. party or social event, It’s eye-opening to know there are people and instead interested my age who aren’t worried about their next party or social event, and instead interested in a whole other life.” in a whole other life. I cannot even begin to describe the utter respect I have for these inTagwa Shammet, dividuals — not to mention how trivial and opinions editor miniscule my problems feel in comparison.

If you think student pregnancies are rare, think again. More than 4.8 milAnother hurdle pregnant students lion undergraduate students are par- face comes from the university itself. ents. Millions are advancing their lives While Student Health Services is a phewith higher education while raising nomenal tool paid for by a mandatory another person. fee — providing things ranging from generI believe these resilient individuals al consultations to nutritionists — it doesn’t deserve all the praise we can garner, but offer any form of prenatal care.

I guess my opinion is a minority view.

Although pregnant students continue to College students struck with those two blue pay the Student Health fee, they miss out

T

on the valuable service their money ought to go toward.

Prenatal care is essential to ensure a healthy pregnancy and an even healthier baby, but it’s ridiculously expensive. Without health insurance, the average cost of prenatal care is $2,000. I don’t know about you guys, but I, as a broke college student, don’t have $2,000 laying around.

University Student Health Services provides pregnant students with referrals to different clinics and practices, but Medical Director of University Student Health Services Margaret Roberson told The Commonwealth Times that prenatal care is “not in their scope of practice.” If VCU believes pregnant students are so rare, then it shouldn’t be too worried about wasting its money on making prenatal care a part of their “scope of practice.”

Pregnant on Campus, an online resource for students with kids, lists more than 50 adoption agencies, however, it doesn’t list any VCU-affiliated prenatal service. I will give the university some credit. I mean, after all, it provides daycare for VCU affiliates at the Child Development Center on Floyd Avenue for $1,150 per month.

With all these unexpected financial burdens and emotional boulders, it’s hard to expect students to continue studying at VCU, or anywhere for that matter. Not to mention the judgmental looks professors give pregnant or parenting students who dare ask for extensions. Fewer than one in 10 students with children complete a bachelor’s degree within six years of college entry.

This reveals that students who get pregnant while in college run a higher risk of dropping out.

Premarital pregnancies are often frowned upon, especially when it comes to college students. I can’t begin to understand the struggle a pregnant college student has to go through. The constant

shaming, body dysmorphia, the stress of what’s to come. At VCU, pregnant students not only have to deal with the social destruction and emotional instability, but they also have to take care of their own medical and prenatal bills, as well as covering the Health Services fee.

Pregnant students and soon-to-be parents deserve more attention and care than VCU has provided. Those unexpected two blue lines may have shaken these parents’ lives, but the financial burden of health and child care could rattle their chances of graduating.

STATISTICS • 47% of all black women in college have dependent children.

• 71% of all undergraduate parenting students are women.

• 43% of parenting students are single mothers (2 million); 11% are single fathers (533,000).

•

More than 4.8 million undergraduate college students are raising children.

•

Parenting students make up about 30% of the community college student body.

•

More than 1.4 million undergraduate college students are fathers.

Wed. September 4, 2019 11

THE CT STAFF EXECUTIVE EDITOR Georgia Geen geengr@commonwealthtimes.org

Epiphany by Ellie Erhart

MANAGING EDITOR Andrew Ringle ringlea@commonwealthtimes.org NEWS EDITOR Hannah Eason news@commonwealthtimes.org SPORTS EDITOR Noah Fleischman sports@commonwealthtimes.org SPECTRUM EDITOR Iman Mekonen spectrum@commonwealthtimes.org OPINIONS EDITOR Tagwa Shammet opinions@commonwealthtimes.org PHOTO EDITOR Jon Mirador photography@commonwealthtimes.org AUDIENCE EDITOR Alexandra Zernik zernikal@commonwealthtimes.org ILLUSTRATIONS EDITOR Sammy Newman illustrations@commonwealthtimes.org STAFF WRITERS Adam Cheek, Sports Quentin Rice, Spectrum STAFF ILLUSTRATORS Erin Joo

Not So Fun Fact by Erin Joo VCU STUDENT MEDIA CENTER DESIGN EDITOR Jeffrey Pohanka designers@vcustudentmedia.com GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Andy Caress Yosef Mirakov Cohen Kamryn Gillham designers@vcustudentmedia.com ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES Hiring advertising@vcustudentmedia.com (804) 828-6629 WEBMASTER Hiring DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Evan McGrady distribution@vcustudentmedia.com DIRECTOR Allison Bennett Dyche abdyche@vcu.edu (804) 827-1975 CREATIVE MEDIA MANAGER Mark Jeffries mjeffries@vcu.edu

City Living by Lake Mannikko

BUSINESS MANAGER Vacant ASSISTANT BUSINESS MANAGER Vacant

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 Shamet, 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

For answers to this week’s puzzles, check commonwealthtimes.org/puzzles every Friday at noon.

Los Angeles Times Crossword Puzzle WIDE-SCREEN DISPLAY

Sponsored by

YOUR AD HERE

L o s An g el es Ti m es Sund ay Cro sswo rd P u zz l e

Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Nichols Lewis

By Gail Grabowski ACROSS 71 Emmy winner DOWN 1 Moussaka Christine 1 Nessie’s hangout ingredient 72 Macron’s palace 2 Samoan capital 5 Angular pipe fitting 74 Shirt tags may 3 Have in mind

By Gail10Grabowski Motion carriers irritate them 4 Writer with a 14 Distorts 75 Birthplace of the website 19 Hesse-based 71 Emmy winner violin 5 Come to light 61 DOWN ACROSS automaker 77 Karaoke singer’s1 Nessie’s 6 Reels in hangout Christine 62 1 Moussaka 20 Portmanteau 72 Macron’s liability 7 Part of MB 2 Samoan capital palace 63 ingredient breakfast brand 78 “Evil Woman” gp.

8 Gp. with pipelines 3 Have in mind 74 Shirt tags may 5 Angular pipe fitting 21 Pic, in ads 79 Pain-relief brand 9 Place to do a job 4 Writer with a irritate them 65 10 Motion carriers 22 Like a fog81 Grumpy 10 Throw on the website 75 Birthplace of the 14 Distorts enshrouded 5 Come tocouch? light violin companion?

66 19 Hesse-based cemetery 84 Picasso’s 11in“Hey, bro” 77 Karaoke singer’s here 6 Reels 68 automaker 23 Trendy farewell 85 “ER,” for one 12 What makes lists 7 Part of MB liability 20 Portmanteau 24 Join the contest78 “Evil89 “Rosemary’s Baby” briefer, briefly 8 Gp. with pipelines Woman” gp.

69 breakfast brand 25 Aussie greeting79 Pain-relief novelist 13toTofu do asource job brandLevin 9 Place 70 21 Pic, in ads 26 Slender-billed 90 Capital south of10 Throw 14 on Bagel choice the 81 Grumpy 22 Like a fogmarsh bird Quito 15 Fashion house couch? companion?

73 enshrouded 27 Aircraft carrier 92 __ Adams founder Cole 11 “Hey, bro” here cemeterystorage area 84 Picasso’s 93 Piano piece?

16 __ Burdon, the lists 85 “ER,”94forCome one off as 12 What makes 23 Trendy 29 farewell Performer using Animals’ frontman briefer, 89 “Rosemary’s Baby” 24 Join the hand contest motions 95 Throat tissue 17 briefly Moist towelette source novelist Levin serving13 Tofu18 76 25 Aussie 31 greeting Jobs in clubs 97 Chicken Visionary 14 Bagel of 26 Slender-billed 32 Ever so slightly90 Capital 99 south Style popularized 28choice Natural drier 79 house Quito by the Beatles 15 Fashion 80 marsh 34bird Somme soul 30 Be loath to Cole (up) 92 __ Adams 82 27 Aircraft 35 carrier Arrival 101 Bout ender, briefly founder 33 Spruce 83 storage area announcement93 Piano 102piece?

Sommelier’s 16 __ Burdon, 35 2010the Apple debut Animals’ frontman as 86 29 Performer using 38 Holy sanctuary94 Come off suggestions 36 Floater in a 95 Throat hand40 motions Singer at Barack’s 103 tissue Pacific Coast 17 Moist towelette sunbeam 97 Chickencountry servingwith a 18 Visionary 31 Jobs in clubs 2009 inauguration 37 Real go-getter 87 99 Style popularized 32 Ever so slightly 28 Natural driereither “g” in88 ceremony 22,000-foot peak 38 Like 34 Somme soul to 43 Dispense drinks by the 104Beatles Pointer, e.g. 30 Be loath“George” ender, briefly 35 Arrival 33 Spruce (up) general at91 44 Murmured 101 Bout 109 Certain downpour 39 British 94 announcement 35 2010 Apple debut romantically 102 Sommelier’s downside Bunker Hill suggestions 38 Holy 45 sanctuary in a wide-eyed Crimp-haired 115 Vast, in verse 36 Floater 40 Leave 96 40 Singer atcritter Barack’s 103 Pacific 116 Coast Hibernation spot sunbeam 41 Nutritionist’s with a 200946 inauguration 37 Real go-getter Towel designation country 117 Attracted recommendation97 22,000-foot peakyou the38 Like42 ceremony either “g” in 48 All-hrs.

118 “I heard Biceps band 104 Pointer, first e.g. time” 43 Dispenseconvenience drinks “George” 44 Don’t play well 98 109 Certain 99 44 Murmured 39 British general 49 Just okay 119 downpour Backpack feature togetherat downside romantically Hill 54 Electrical unit 120 Glamour shelfmateBunker 45 Thrifty, in brand 115 Vast, in Type versesimilar to 40 Leave wide-eyed 45 Crimp-haired 55 Opioids watchdog 121 names 116 Hibernation spot critter org.

41 Nutritionist’s Helvetica 47 Johanna who 100 46 Towel56designation Ready to blow117 Attracted 122 Late hours, in ads recommendation created Heidi 103 118 “I heard youlathered the 57 Kitchenware brand 123 All up 42 Biceps 49 band Historic Florida104 48 All-hrs.

58 How many rumorsfirst124 Source of many44 Don’t play racetrack time” convenience well tweets 50 Part of ETA: Abbr.

119 Backpack feature 105 49 Just okayspread together 60 Almost 125 Basket contents, 51 in Drifts off 120 Glamour shelfmate 106 54 Electrical unit reaches 45 Thrifty, brand 62 watchdog Gross portion121 Type similar perhaps 52 Boardroom VIP to 55 Opioids names 126 How most TV 47 Johanna 53 Cheerful Helvetica org. 64 More sharp who refrain107 65toNavy shows air, and a created 59 Word 122 Late hours, in ads 108 56 Ready blowCross, e.g.

Heidi near 67 Interior designer’s hint up to1nine2puzzle Kazakhstan on110 123 All lathered 57 Kitchenware brand 49 Florida 3 Historic 4 Level concern answers Asia maps many 58 How many rumors 124 Source of racetrack tweets 111 spread 50 Part of ETA: Abbr.

125 Basket contents, 60 Almost reaches 51 Drifts off perhaps 112 62 Gross portion 52 Boardroom VIP 126 How most TV 113 64 More sharp 53 Cheerful refrain shows air, and a 65 Navy Cross, e.g.

59 Word near hint to nine puzzle 114 67 Interior designer’s Kazakhstan on answers concern Asia maps

WIDE-SCREEN DISPLAY

Sudoku

By The Mepham Group

61 Minimal effort 62 Stop on a line 63 Commemorative lines 65 Black Sabbath’s genre 66 Bring Minimal effortforth 68onHr. when the sun is Stop a line strong Commemorative 69 Niger neighbor lines 70 Sabbath’s Romantic triangle Black genre figure 73forth It formed some Bring features of is Hr. when the sun strong Arches National Park Niger neighbor 76 Director Burton Romantic triangle 79 Mixes in figure 80 “Phooey!”

It formed some 82 McFlurry flavor features of 83 Sleep out, say Arches National 86 Abe’s role in “The Park Godfather” Director Burton 87 Did a takeoff on Mixes 88 in Regulation “Phooey!” affecting boxers?

McFlurry flavor 91 Raid product Sleep say Italian 94 out, Layered Abe’s role in “The dessert Godfather” 96 Like Speedos Did97 a takeoff Sufferson from the Regulation heat affecting boxers?

98 Feel sorry about Raid 99product Stick one’s nose Layered Italianit doesn’t where dessertbelong Like 100Speedos Man-mouse link Suffers from the 103 Kilt feature heat 104 Pianist Dame Feel sorry about Myra __ Stick nose 105one’s “Do __ others ... ” where doesn’t novelist 106 itRomance belong Roberts Man-mouse link spot 107 Secluded Kilt108 feature Secluded spot 110 Surrounding Pianist Dame atmosphere Myra __ 111 “Do __ Camera others ...lens ” feature Romance novelist 112 Comparable (to) Roberts 113 Many a black-clad Secluded spot teen Secluded spot 114 Scratched Surrounding (out) atmosphere Camera lens feature Comparable (to) Many a black-clad teen Scratched (out)

3

L o s A n g e l e s Ti m e s Su n d a y C r o s s wo r d P u zzl e Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Nichols Lewis

Wide - Screen Display by Gail Grabowski

Level 1 3

4

Complete the grid so each row, column, and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) containsSolution to Monday’s puzzle every digit, 1 to 9.

For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit sudoku.org.uk

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

For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit sudoku.org.uk

9/4/19

2

4

Solution to Tuesday’s puzzle

1/15/19

ADVERTISEMENT

2

Contact Allison Dyche @ abdyche@vcu.edu

Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit, 1 to 9. For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, please visit sudoku.org.uk

DIFFICULTY LEVEL 1

Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Nichols Lewis

© 2019 The Mepham Group. Distributed © 2019byThe Tribune Content Agency. All rights reserved.

Mepham Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency. All rights reserved.

Sponsored by

YOUR AD HERE Contact Allison Dyche @ abdyche@vcu.edu

ADVERTISEMENT