The independent press of Virginia Commonwealth University November 9, 2015 • Vol. 57, No. 10 Best All Around Nondaily Student Newspaper - SPJ Mark of Excellence awards

NEWS SPORTS SPECTRUM OPINION Student deaths • 2 Free throws • 7 Jeffrey Tambor • 8 Felon’s voting rights • 11

Wade’s reign begins

BRYANT DRAYTON errant passes, stifling the Sports Editor Rams offense from getting anything done. The men’s basketball team Wade went to his bench competed against California early, bringing in juniors University of Pennsylvania Ahmed Hamdy-Mohamed in an exhibition match at and Jordan Burgess to pro- the Siegel Center on Friday vide a tough presence on night, defeating the visiting the boards. Burgess, a local Blaze 96-60. In what was Richmond product, found head coach Will Wade’s first his niche as well, taking official contest at the helm, his defender off the dribble more than 7,600 Ram fans and converting tough buck- came out to support the first ets around the rim. Burgess year coach. made his mark at the 15:39 Seniors Melvin John- left in the first half, he drove son and Korey Billbury got down the lane to his left, he The Basketball Is the start alongside juniors ultimately finished with his JeQuan Lewis and Mo Alie- right hand for an and-1 op- Cox, sophomore Justin Till- portunity after a sweet spin sue man got the nod as well. move to bring the Rowdy The Rams started off Rams on their feet, making slow with Tillman record- the score 10-5. ing the first bucket of the “As everyone knows, game one minute into the Treveon Graham isn’t here first half. Turnovers were anymore,” Burgess said. “I the story early, as Lewis was had to pick up my role for the beneficiary of multiple —continued on page 6 PHOTO BY BROOKE MARSH Senior Korey Billbury converts an emphatic slam during VCU’s 96-60 exhibition win against California University of Pennsylvania on Friday night. The senior transfer recorded 10 points and 11 rebounds in the contest.

Brotherhood: Why he stayed CJ PASCHALL us, everybody left. I went up to his three years, signaling the start of Contributing Writer office and just talked to him, and a golden age for VCU basketball, told him how much I respected him ultimately fade away. Sophomore Justin Tillman re- and wished him good luck.” But Tillman also remembers members. He remembers the two He remembers the days and why he stayed. things about VCU that stood out weeks that followed, with many The two things that brought to him, driving the heralded recruit of the team’s high-profile recruits him to VCU in the first place, were to make Rama Country his home: decommitting, and his fellow 2014 the two things that kept him here, the sense of family that surrounded recruit Terry Larrier requesting his starting with the coaching staff and the team and the coaching staff, led release from the team — Tillman incoming head coach Will Wade. by former head coach Shaka Smart. did the same. “Just talking to Coach Wade … More than a year after those “I wanted to open up my re- I didn’t even have to ask for it, but visits, said he remembers the un- cruitment and see what other he said I still could work out with pleasant night of April 2. He re- schools were interested in me,” them, he still thought I’d be a great members the night, more than Tillman said. player,” Tillman said. “Just getting seven months ago, that Shaka He said he remembers the pain to know him, building a relation- Smart left the team. of losing the coach who brought ship with him, and seeing how “(When the meeting was called) him to Richmond. Of seeing much he’s a caring guy.” I had a feeling he was going to teammates walk away. Of watch- The second factor? Even though leave,” Tillman said. “After he told ing the big plans for the next Smart had moved on, the sense of family Tillman had experienced on his recruiting visit still remained. “I’m really close with Mike (Gilmore) and Johnny (Williams), and the rest of the team,” Till- man said. “We still had a tight PHOTOS BY BROOKE MARSH bond, even though the coach left. Junior Lewis records seven assist in Fridays Sophomore Williams found success driving We thought we still could do big exhibition contest against Cal.(Penn.) the lane, recording 11 points Friday night. things here.” And so, just days after reports surfaced that he had requested his release from the school with intent to transfer, Tillman took to Twit- Changing of the Guard ter to announce he was staying with the team. MARCUS BLACKWELL Darius Theus took the lead of the assists per game. Lewis said he “I have decided to be here with Staff Writer Rams’ offense, with back-to-back feels Wade gives the team the my brothers and stay at VCU … successful seasons while leading push they needed to be successful RAMNATION!! #Brotherhood With two of the team leaders the team in assists. Finally, for the and understands they have what #Family.” from last year, Briante Weber and past three years at VCU the heart it takes. Even though Tillman remem- Treveon Graham, moving on to and soul of “Havoc” has been Bri- “Coach Wade has been tough, bers the past, the 6-foot-7 small the professional level, there is now ante Weber, who graduated lead- not sugarcoating anything,” Lewis forward now focuses on the road an opening for someone to move ing the country in steals and lead- said. “He’s hard on us because he ahead. With the graduation of stars into the position of both on-and- ing the team in assists. knows what we can do.” Treveon Graham and Briante We- off the court leadership. In VCU’s Former head coach Shaka Williams, entering his second ber, as well as the departure of Lar- past, the point guard position has Smart was able to provide specific season as a Ram, played just 10 rier, Tillman steps into a new role spearheaded the team’s attack and insight to the position, thanks to minutes a game last season, but as a consistent starter. In only his heading into this season, there the fact he played point guard at this year will see a huge increase second year, Tillman should see a will be new faces at the position. Kenyon College from 1995-1999. in playing time as he adjusts to a vastly increased role for the Rams. Since Eric Maynor’s sophomore Smart instilled his passion into his bigger role. Stepping into the spotlight, he season in 2007, the VCU point players, while having an extra em- “I’m ready. This offseason I sets his goals for the season higher guard has been consistently one phasis on his guards. worked a lot on my shot,” Wil- than ever before. of the most important assets on Entering this new season with liams said. “Last year teams would “I want to be on the A-10 De- the team, whether it is offensively new head coach Will Wade there go under screens on me so this fensive Team,” he said. “I want to or defensively. When Maynor will be two guards that will look year I’m coming back being a bet- be one of the best sophomores in graduated as VCU’s all-time lead- to take over the offense. in the ter shooter. I just got to keep get- the country … offensively and de- ing scorer in 2009, his understudy, past, it is unprecedented for VCU ting better as a player.” fensively, in rebounding and block- Joey Rodriguez, was passed the to having question marks around VCU has become known across ing shots.” torch. During Rodriguez’s time the point guard position. The two the country for its aggressive, hec- Tillman pondered the question as the starting point guard, he was contenders will be junior Jequan tic defensive style of play. Despite a moment more before finishing able to help lead the Rams to their Lewis and sophomore Jonathan Weber and Smart no longer being PHOTO BY JULIE TRIPP his thought. Sophomore Tillman looks to provide athleticism and activity most successful year to date, the Williams. Last year Lewis played at VCU, the Rams are preparing “I just want to be a standout classic “Final Four” season. 22 minutes a game, averaging 8.5 to use that same style with these on the boards as he adjusts to his starting role. player,” he said. Following Rodriguez’s stint, points and just fewer than three —continued on page 6 2 The Commonwealth Times

In this section: Student deaths, safe neighborhoods, news GOP updates. briefs LOCAL FBI: Bank robber strikes for 5th time Three VCU students pass away in northern Va. The FBI says a bank robber known as the “Forever Loyal Bandit” for a slogan on a T-shirt he wore has struck again in north- ern Virginia. unexpectedly, two from fatal falls The most recent robbery attributed to the man occurred on Friday in Arlington. SARAH KING flagged down in reference to a per- works for the Student Media Cen- the tough transitions of middle and The FBI says the man handed a teller a note Executive Editor son down in the roadway. ter. Wright said she and Ducic were high school, Chris Ducic’s capabil- FREE UNIVERSITY RESOURCES demanding money at the Capital One Bank “Officers located an adult male, friends since elementary school. ity to remind you of your personal The Wellness Resource on Columbia Pike. He left with some cash. Three VCU students passed who was unconscious and not “I’ve just been crying a lot. Peo- value was unmatched.” Center The man is now wanted in five rob- away unexpectedly within a week breathing, in the 100 block of E. ple from back at home and family Interim vice provost for student 815 S. Cathedral Place beries dating back to June. The first three of each other. Canal Street. The victim – Christo- have been texting and calling me affairs Charles Klink sent an email (804) 828-9355 occurred in Falls Church. Then, the FBI First-year dentistry student Ben- pher J. Ducic, 21, of the 00 block of non-stop trying to figure out what’s to the VCU community Monday Monday – Friday says the man robbed a bank in Fairfax on jamin Sykes and senior engineering E. Canal Street – was pronounced going on and what happened,” afternoon addressing Sykes and 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Oct. 30 before the most recent robbery in student Christopher Ducic both dead at the scene,” Rowland stated Wright said. Ducic’s passing. VCU Counseling Services Arlington on Friday. During the first two suffered fatal falls over Halloween in an email. “Chris was one of the most Klink’s email also stated Lisa on Monroe Park Campus robberies, he wore a T-shirt that read “For- weekend in unrelated accidents. Chris was one intelligent people I’ve ever met, Rubi, a recent transfer into the Col- University Student ever Loyal.” Michael Porter, interim direc- of the most and he buried none of it,” said lege of Humanities and Sciences, Commons, Room 238 Brief by the Associated Press tor of VCU public affairs, said the Shannon Minnich, a senior at was killed in an automobile accident 907 Floyd Ave. Richmond Police are conducting intelligent Christopher Newport University on Oct. 28 in Poquoson, Virginia. (804) 828-6200 Woman sentenced to prison for steal- investigations of both incidents. people I’ve ever met, and who was also close with Ducic The Daily reported that Rubi Monday - Friday ing from Norfolk firm According to Susan Rowland, in high school. “He was generous was killed in a single-vehicle acci- 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. A former bookkeeper has been sen- a public affairs specialist for the he buried none of it. He and kind, taking time out of his dent early on the morning of Oct. tenced to 2½ years for embezzling almost Richmond Police, at approximately was generous and kind, days and nights to help teach his 25, according to a release from the VCU Counseling Services $470,000 from her Norfolk employer. 11:55 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 30, of- friends and classmates.” Virginia State Police. on MCV Campus taking time out of his days Grant House, B011 The Virginian-Pilot reports that court ficers were called to the area of S. Minnich said her friend also had Klink said the university has 1008 E. Clay St. documents say 37-year-old Katherine and nights to help teach his 14th and Dock streets for a report an innate ability to make anyone been in contact with the schools (804) 828-3964 Albert-McNaughton also stole $520 that of a person walking on the elevated friends and classmates.” laugh, regardless of his or her sense and those who are close to the stu- Monday: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.; her co-workers tried to donate to chil- railroad tracks. of humor; his bright smile was con- dents to make them aware of avail- — SHANNON MINNICH Wednesday: 11 a.m. – 5 dren’s charities. U.S. District Judge Arenda “A few minutes later, witnesses tagious; on any given Monday or able university resources that pro- p.m.; Tuesday - Friday: 8 Wright Allen said that “takes it even down reported the man had fallen. The dreary morning, he would walk vide support. a.m. – 5 p.m. to a deeper level.” victim was identified as Benjamin Following an autopsy, Rowland into the cafeteria and lift spirits “We are deeply saddened by Albert-McNaughton worked for HBA G. Sykes, 25, of the 15000 block said the medical examiner deter- with his presence; his propensity to these losses and our condolences For an emergency after hours, Architecture & Interior Design. Court please call VCU Police dispatch of Carlbern Drive in Centreville,” mined Ducic’s death to be acciden- love others was exceptional. go out to the students’ families and at (804) 828-1234 and ask to documents say that between October 2011 Rowland said in an email. tal, also stemming from a fall. “Most significantly, Chris en- friends. Your thoughtful efforts to speak to a therapist. and June 2104, she forged a supervisor’s Shortly before 1:15 a.m. on “He didn’t come home this week- sured that every single person he support those impacted by these signature on 83 checks and used the money Sunday, Nov. 1, Rowland said of- end,” said Shannon Wright, a senior came into contact with felt includ- tremendous losses are deeply ap- for vehicles, air fare and entertainment. ficers working on Canal Street were communication arts major who ed,” Minnich said. “Throughout preciated,” Klink said. Meanwhile, the company laid off six em- ployees, froze salaries, suspended bonuses and stopped matching retirement contribu- tions. At Friday’s hearing, defense attorney Kirsten Kmet blamed her client’s actions in part on an abusive marriage that ended in Hitting too close to home: student’s homicide January 2014. Brief by the Associated Press Russian media executive Mikhail Le- reflects national trend of gun violence victims sin dies at 57 in DC hotel Mikhail Lesin, a former aide to Rus- SARAH KING falls” that come with potentially sian President Vladimir Putin who helped Executive Editor upsetting the gun lobby. Hence, found the English-language news service the Washington Post reported, Russia Today, has been found dead in an “LIVE LONG” were the words some researchers still actively avoid upscale Washington hotel room. written across the sole of a white studying gun violence. The Russian Embassy in Washington Nike sneaker amidst white, pink “Guns kill. People kill,” Alec on Friday confirmed the death of Lesin, and red roses in full bloom sit- Bose said. “We need to get out of whose body was discovered Thursday. Rus- ting atop Joe’s casket as Alec Bose this mindset where somehow tak- sia Today reported on its website that Le- watched his younger brother put to ing a life, whether it’s justified or sin, 57, died of a heart attack. rest on Friday. not, is a reality of our nation. It Metropolitan Police Department “RIP Joe Joe.” doesn’t have to be and I really hope spokesman Officer Sean Hickman said that “Love you always, love!” people can start to at least think officers were called to the Dupont Circle “You know you my mans.” about it before they go to defend Hotel about 11:30 a.m. Thursday and found At Galilee Baptist Church guns or even worse — reach for it.” a man dead. Russian Embassy spokesman in Maryland, home-going ser- Although words like “funding” Yury Melnik confirmed that the man was vice attendees blanketed a pair do little to assuage the grief felt by Lesin. of Air Force Ones with snip- families affected by gun violence, Russia Today, commonly known as RT, pets of thought dedicated to their the Bose family and Hampton Uni- credited Lesin with “inspiring the creation” 20-year-old friend, classmate and versity are rallying the community of the agency. family member. to support a positive cause.

Brief by the Associated Press According to Norfolk Police, FAMILY BOSE THE OF COURTESY PHOTO In Joe’s honor, the Bose fam- third-year journalism student at ily and Hampton University’s NATIONAL Hampton University, Joseph “Joe” Scripps Howard School of Jour- Sorting sexting offenders from vic- Bose, was fatally shot at a week- nalism and Communications are tims will take time end party near West 35th Street establishing the Joseph K. Bose It could take a month to sort the of- and Killam Avenue about 3:15 a.m. Endowed Scholarship. fenders from the victims in a widespread last Saturday. According to Norfolk Brett Pulley, Dean of Hamp- sexting case at a Colorado high school, and Police Sgt. Daryl Jarvis, he died at ton University’s Scripps School of then authorities plan to file charges only if the scene. Journalism, said every year, in per- “absolutely necessary,” a prosecutor said. “My brother didn’t die, he was petuity, a journalism student will An unspecified number of Canon City killed,” said Joe’s older brother, Third-year Hampton University journalism student, Joseph K. Bose, 20, photographed at his receive a scholarship in Joe’s name. High School students have been suspended Alec, a May 2015 VCU graduate 2013 high school graduation. Hampton University and the Bose family have organized a schol- “A plaque will also hang in the over the exchange of hundreds of explicit and former Residential Assistant arship fund for the Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications in Joe’s honor. atrium of the Scripps Howard photos of students as young as eighth- and orientation leader. “He didn’t School, memorializing the schol- graders. lose his life, it was taken.” friend and classmate. snatched from our family in the of 25. In contrast, when looking arship and reminding every single An investigation began Monday after Last week, Edison High School “He was my role model,” said most violent, incomprehensible at gun-related deaths, the corre- student who walks through that some people contacted school officials and students painted “the senior rock” Sean Duffer, a close friend of the way,” she said. sponding narrative is very differ- building, that a bright and promis- a tip came through a state student safety in memory of Joe, a fallen 2013 Bose family who grew up with both Alec Bose said he understands ent. In 2010, more than 20 percent ing young man named Joseph Bose hotline. alum. On Wednesday, Nov. 4, brothers. “As a little brother (Joe) there’s something to be said about of individuals killed by guns were also walked those hallowed corri- Three phones have been confiscated, Hampton University sponsored a would just give me advice — Joe constitutional rights, but hopes his under age 25 — totaling more dors,” Pulley said. and authorities are seeking search warrants home-going service at HU’s Ogden would sit me down and we’d have little brother’s death sparks a seri- than 6,500 deaths. Pulley and his wife, Stacey, have to examine them. It’s unclear how many Hall. Two days later, Joe’s fam- real talks. If I wanted to do some- ous conversation about the implica- Furthermore, homicide was the contributed the first $500 toward students posed for nude pictures and the ily held his home-going service in thing that could clearly get me tions of gun violence. fifth leading cause of death for in- establishing the memorial schol- investigation is expected to take about 30 Maryland and Alexandria, Va. in trouble and put me at risk Joe dividuals between the ages of 35 arship. Pulley and the Bose fam- days, Canon City Police Capt. Jim Cox said Alec posted on Facebook shortly wouldn’t let me do it. He was liter- We need to and 44 in 2010, and guns account- ily ask others to please match their Friday. after the Edison rock was repainted ally my conscience,” Duffer said. get out of this ed for 68 percent of those deaths. gift, or give whatever they can. Brief by the Associated Press to commemorate his little brother. Now, more than a week after the mindset where Homicide was not even in the top If just 49 other people just match He said he has seen the names of fatal shooting, and just days after 10 causes of death for individuals their $500 contribution, Pulley 9th Circuit addresses senility among one too many people he loves on Joe’s funeral, the Bose family still somehow taking a life, ages 45 to 54. said the fund will have a total of federal judges head on that rock. doesn’t know who shot Joe. Nobody whether it’s justified or In 2010, more than 6,000 people $25,000 — the amount needed to Now 84, federal appellate court Judge “I’m not sure if I’ll be O.K. has been charged in the death; the not, is a reality of our between the ages of 15 and 24 were fully endow the scholarship. William Canby made the difficult deci- even though I keep telling myself I police have no suspects. killed by guns, while 7,024 people Once that’s accomplished, Pul- sion a few years ago to mostly stop hearing will be. But I have to try, I have to According to the Virginian- nation. It doesn’t have to in the same age group were killed in ley said the Joseph K. Bose En- cases after a 30-year career. He was sharp keep moving and live my life with Pilot, detectives know people saw be and I really hope people motor vehicle accidents. According dowed Scholarship will live on, and healthy, but didn’t want to risk mental purpose. Because that’s what my Joe get shot because it happened at can start to at least think to the report, if the current trends proudly, for as long as Hampton decline that would lead him to make mis- brother would have wanted and I a weekend party, but not enough continue, gun deaths among this University is in existence. takes, he said. have to do anything and everything witnesses have talked to police. about it before they go to age group are projected to outnum- The family and dean ask to “It seemed to me if the goal is to work in my power to honor his memory But Joe is not the first to die from defend guns or even worse ber car accident deaths this year for please make checks payable to until you are no longer able, you will work a and take care of my family,” Bose’s gun violence in the Norfolk area the first time since 1994. “Hampton University – Joseph couple of years too long,” he said. post read. this school year. He is the second — reach for it. Widening the scope of this is- K. Bose Endowed Scholarship.” Canby’s decision reflects one of the He ended the post by thank- youth to lose his life from gunfire — ALEC BOSE sue, Forbes reported in August that Mailed to: Brett Pulley, Dean, The unique job hazards federal judges face: ing the students of Edison High and the fifth college student shot at least 32,000 people per year are Scripps Howard School of Journal- age-related mental decline. Unlike judges School for the tribute and said his near Old Dominion University’s According to a 2014 report by killed by guns in the United States. ism & Communications, Hampton in most states, U.S. Supreme Court jus- family asked anyone attending the campus since Oct. 16. the Center for American Progress, This number may not be the most University, Hampton, VA 23663. tices and federal appellate and district funeral wear formal attire with According to police data, in the second-most frequent cause of accurate depiction of the problem, “I need families to know that my court judges are appointed for life. To be their “freshest pair of sneakers” to Norfolk alone there were 14 homi- death for people between the ages because not all gun-related deaths son is just like your son and your removed, they must be impeached by Con- honor Joe’s love of shoes. cides in August, 24 in September of 15 and 24 in 2010 was homicide, are reported. child is my son . . . innocence. Joe gress, which has occurred only a few times. Students came home from col- and 21 in October of this year. and 83 percent of those homicides In January 2013, President represents us all — the best that life undergo cognitive assessments and des- leges across the country, many who “Our family has suffered the were committed with a gun. Barack Obama ordered the Cen- has to offer,” Kim Bose said. ignate colleagues, friends or family who hadn’t seen each other since their most horrific loss a family can ex- The report states that every ters for Disease Control to study can intervene if concerns arise about their graduation from high school, to perience, the loss of our son,” said year, about 2.5 million Americans the causes for gun violence, but the mental health. stand together at Mount Comfort Kim Bose, Joe’s mother. “Made die from a range of causes, but less CDC has done little to address the Brief by the Associated Press Cemetery and say goodbye to their from complete innocence and love, than 3 percent are under the age issue for “fear and funding short- www.commonwealthtimes.org Monday, November 9, 2015 3 Monroe Park campus named Richmond’s “most walkable” 2015 neighborhood

SOPHIA BELLETTI Staff Writer

Redfin Real Estate named Richmond one of the top-10 “Most Walkable Mid-Sized Cit- ies” of 2015. Last week, Redfin followed up with a report on the “most walkable neighborhoods” in Richmond, ranking Monroe Park as number one. Redfin created the tool “Walk Score” to measure the walkability of any address and amenity. It takes into consideration the proximity to amenities including bars, restau- rants, coffee shops, grocery stores and retail stores. Richmond ranked ninth among the most walkable mid-sized cities of 2015 with a total walk-score of 49.2. In June, Richmond led all other markets in year-over-year sales growth. The median sale price in- creased 10.3 percent and sales were up 35.4 percent since 2014. Local Redfin agent Warren Teller says that neighborhoods like Carytown and The Fan — which received Walk Score ratings of 92 and 89, respectively — are highly desirable among buyers. “The charming, historic homes, tree-lined streets and proximity to an array of shops and restaurants

are a potent combination, creating PHOTO BY ANA GARVIN strong demand and bidding wars,” A VCU student reads at the center of Monroe Park, which was named the safest neighborhood in Richmond by Redfin Real Estate this past summer. Teller said. “New developments in the Monroe Ward, Jackson Ward, ties, with no points given after a sus, Localeze and places added by $250,000,” Teller said. Fan, all ranked in the top-10 as truly grand properties along Mon- Shockoe Bottom and along the 30-minute walk.” the Walk Score user community. Walk Score does not directly re- well. Carver earned a Walk Score ument Avenue, which have been Riverfront are attracting residents Walk Score analyzed more than Walk Score considers Monroe port crime and homelessness, but it of 91 and was recognized for its home to many wealthy and famous who want to live and work in the 10 million locations and computed Park a “Walker’s Paradise” and does factor in pedestrian friendliness. variety of restaurants and coffee residents in the city’s history,” Tell- urban center.” more than 2 billion walking routes estimates that the average resident The VCU Police Department shops, including the popular Sugar er said. “Beyond the architecture, it “Points are awarded based on for 2,500 U.S. cities. can walk to an average of 24 res- recently put together a crime report Shack Donuts. remains and widely coveted neigh- the distance to amenities in each Walk Score also measures pe- taurants, bars and coffee shops in dating from Aug.1 to Oct. 28. The The Fan followed behind Carver borhood today thanks to the walk- category,” said Alina Ptaszynsk, a destrian friendliness by analyzing five minutes. report listed 16 sex offense reports, with a score of 89. Students are of- able lifestyle it offers.” Redfin communications specialist. population density and road met- “In terms of housing, the area two reports of robbery and four ag- ten drawn to The Fan because of its “Amenities within a five-minute rics, such as block length and in- has mostly rental options, though gravated assaults on west campus. balance of college students, fami- walk are given maximum points. tersection density. The tool pulls there are a few condo buildings Neighborhoods surrounding lies and older residents. A decay function is used to give data from Google, Education.com, in the VCU neighborhood with the Monroe Park campus, includ- “The Fan includes many beauti- points to more distant ameni- Open Street Map, the U.S. Cen- a median sale price a little over ing Monroe Ward, Carver and The ful historic homes, including some

ADVERTISEMENT Sturtevant wins District 10, Governor takes hit as GOP maintains Senate and House

FADEL ALLASSAN ponent served for eight years on date Jill McCabe came relatively Staff Writer the Board of Supervisors. close, but was unable to pull off Sturtevant’s victory means that the unlikely win against Repub- There were no changes to the the seat, previously held by retir- lican Dick Black by a 5 percent Virginia House or Senate control ing Republican John Watkins, will margin. The Loudoun County this election as Republicans kept remain under Republican control seat has been held by a Republican their majority despite this being despite Sturtevant winning by the since 1992. the most expensive off-year elec- smallest margin of any candidate Republicans also easily retained tion in Virginia history. in this year’s senate races. their 2-1 majority of the House of The Republican victory comes The crucial race seemed like Delegates, where elections are held as a blow to Gov. Terry McAuliffe the Democrats’ best chances to every two years for each seat. In (D), who needed to gain control of regain control of the senate, where house districts with constituents at least one of the chambers in the they needed only a net gain of one from Richmond, every incumbent General Assembly to more easily seat to be even with Republicans was reelected. impose his legislative agenda in the at 20 seats each. If that were the In District 68, Republican state. The governor will now have case, the Democratic Lieutenant Delegate Manoli Loupassi kept to continue the final two years of Governor would have essentially his seat by winning more than 60 his first term as governor with a served as the tiebreaker, which percent of the vote against Demo- divided government. would have been a virtual majority cratic challenger Bill Grogan, In the critical contest for Vir- for Democrats. while districts 69 and 70, held by ginia’s 10th senate district, Repub- In District 16, which has con- Democratic Senators Betsy Carr lican candidate Glen Sturtevant stituency in part of Richmond, and Delores McQuinn respec- edged out Democrat Dan Gecker Democrat Rosalyn Dance saw off tively did not see challenges to by about 2 percent of the popular her challenger, Joseph Morrissey their positions. vote, allowing Republicans keep (I) with 72 percent of the vote. In In districts 71 and 74, Demo- control of the chamber on Tuesday. another senate race that had con- crats Jennifer Mcclellan and Despite a strong showing for stituency in Richmond, District 9 Lamont Bagby rolled over their in- Gecker in the City of Richmond, Democrat Donald McEachin won dependent challengers with 87 and Sturtevant got large margins of reelection after running unopposed. 77 percent of votes respectively. victory in Powhatan and Ches- In Northern Virginia, the sec- terfield counties, including in the ond closest senate battle in the Midlothian region, where his op- state took place. First-time candi-

PHOTO BY MATTHEW LEONARD Richmond residents voted for state senator on Tuesday at locations throughout the city. 4 The Commonwealth Times news VCU briefs

$50.8 million expansion, renovation of Jake Johnson, College VCU’s main library is now open New building defines the academic li- Humor release sexual brary of the future, emphasizing collabora- tion, openness, discovery and creativity. Virginia Commonwealth University’s assault PSA greatly expanded and renovated James Branch Cabell Library is now open, provid- ting on the kitchen floor. ing VCU’s more than 31,000 students with MATT LEONARD Print Managing Editor “Oh, that’s just a big, angry, vastly more space to study, collaborate, dis- hungry bear,” Johnson’s character cover, create, and conduct research. The Obama administration’s says. “Just pretend it’s not there.” The $50.8 million project adds 93,000 “It’s On Us” campaign, which As the bear begins to growl square feet of new construction and 63,000 has worked toward drawing at- on the other side of the door his square feet of improvements to the existing tention to sexual assault since its friends became worried about library, with 90 percent of the space de- launch last year, has released a what is on the other side and ask signed specifically for student use. new video with CollegeHumor why he doesn’t want to do any- The first two floors of the new library that tackles a tricky subject in a thing. building open to the public today, while light hearted way. Johnson’s character then says final construction of floors three and four The video features Jake John- the bear will only kill one in five IMAGE COURTESY OF COLLEGEHUMOR is slated for completion in December and son and Lamorne Morris from of them — a number commonly CollegeHumor’s new sexual assault PSA ponders the question: What if one in five people those floors will be furnished and open for New Girl, David Walton from referred to with sexual assault were killed by bears? Would it be taken more seriously than sexual assault? the spring semester. About a Boy, Rob Riggle from saying that one in five women A state-of-the-art innovative media Let’s Be Cops. In the video will be assaulted in college. studio, which will feature a variety of maker they’re all hanging out watch- When the bear knocks down people turning their back on sex- conference call on Thursday. “I campaign began in September tools and technology, such as 3-D printers ing football when the character the door Johnson screams “It’s ual assault even when they know think what’s kinda going on with 2014, and said when coming up and scanners, laser cutters, Arduino boards played by Riggle leaves the room fine, It’s fine! The majority is fine. that it is happening. these sexual assaults is crazy.” with this sketch they wanted to and robotics, will open early in the spring to get a new beer. I don’t want to deal with this “I heard about it and I it just Spencer Griffin from College focus on the one in five statistic. semester in the new library building’s lower When he opens the door to problem.” seemed like something that was Humor said they had been work- “We said ‘what if it was some- level. leave the room he sees a bear sit- The video is a comment on worth doing,” Johnson said in a ing with “It’s On Us” since the thing else,’” Griffin said. James Branch Cabell Library, which is among the busiest academic libraries in Virginia, was built in 1970 and expanded to its current five floors in 1975. Over the past decade, use of the library has doubled to serve more than 2 million visitors annually. Brief by Brian McNeill, University Public Affairs

National Association for Ethnic Stud- ies now headquartered at VCU The oldest ethnic studies organization in the United States has moved its head- quarters to Virginia Commonwealth Uni- versity. The National Association for Ethnic Studies, founded in 1972, is an interdis- ciplinary forum for scholars and activists concerned with national and international dimensions of race and ethnicity. It is now located within the Political Science Pro- gram in the College of Humanities and Sciences. The mission of NAES is to encourage activities and scholarship in the field of eth- nic studies and to promote social justice and equality through research and scholarship, curriculum design, conferences and assis- tance to ethnic studies programs to develop civic-minded and culturally informed com- munities and people. Brief by Brian McNeill, University Public Affairs

Art and Fashion author to speak at Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts (VCUarts) presents a conversation with New York Times best- selling author E.P. Cutler. Ms. Cutler is the co-author of “Art + Fashion: Collaborations and Connection Between Icons” (2015), and the New York Times bestseller “PAN-

TONE on Fashion: A Century of Color in PHOTOS BY JULIE TRIPP Design” (2014). The fashion historian will This $50.8 million project is the first expansion and renovation to the James Branch Cabell Library since its opening in 1970. be discussing how art and fashion have in- tersected throughout her career on Thurs- day, Nov. 19 at noon in the VCUarts Depot Building, located at 814 West Broad Street. This event is free and open to the public. Brief by Suzanne Silitch, director of com- munications, VCUarts

VCU hosts free evidence-based clinical practice workshops Health professionals can register to re- serve a seat Virginia Commonwealth University will host a series of free workshops for local health professionals, focusing on evidence- based clinical practice, which is the integra- tion of clinical expertise with the best avail- able research evidence in making decisions about the care of the individual patient. The workshops are sponsored by the Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology in the Department of Internal Medicine at VCU. The free workshops will be held Wednesday, Nov. 18, through Friday, Nov. The recent expansion adds 93,000 square feet of new construction and 63,000 square feets of improvements to the existing library space. 20. Most sessions will be held at the Kontos Medical Sciences Building, 1217 E. Mar- shall St. The medical grand rounds ses- sion on Nov. 19 at noon will be held in the Sanger Hall Auditorium, 1101 E. Marshall Library opens first part of $50.8 million expansion St. For additional details or to register, visit the VCU Office of Continuing and Profes- sional Education website at http://ocpe.vcu. ANDREW CRIDER “We worked with the contractor for struction company has worked with many within their construction budget, students edu/ and locate the workshop information Contributing Writer months and months and months in advance Virginia universities, including William & will still be expected to continue to pay a $50 in the announcements section. to say we really wanted to bring the space on- Mary, Old Dominion University, the Uni- annual library fee. Brief by Lynn Myers, Ed.D. The James Branch Cabell Library opened line,” Ulmschneider said. versity of Mary Washington, Christopher According to Sue Robinson, director of the first and second floor of its $50.8 million Before its expansion, Cabell was the small- Newport University, Virginia Union Univer- communication and public relations for VCU New events added to Homecoming dollar expansion on Nov. 2. The new addition est library at any Virginia university. Cabell sity, the University of Virginia, James Madi- libraries, the fee is essential for the operation A full slate of events celebrating black is the first renovation to the library since its offered only 5.6 square feet per student – a son University and Virginia Tech. of the library. and gold Ram pride is scheduled Nov. 8–14, debut in 1970. small amount in comparison to the College Ulmschneider said that the contractor faced “Student leadership supported VCU Li- an update on the chilly winter schedule The $50.8 million project adds 93,000 of William and Mary’s Earl Gregg Swem Li- several obstacles in meeting the deadline. braries in its request to have a small student that’s been in place since 2002. square feet of new space in addition to 63,000 brary, which has 44 square feet per student. “There were many challenges, but they fee that directly benefits the library,” Robin- Those outdoor events include the square feet of renovations to the existing li- According to the William and Mary kept us on schedule and I’m really delighted son said. “Rectacular Spectacular” (flag football, a brary. 90 percent of this space was designed website, the university has a student body by it,” Ulmschneider said. “They have been Ulmschneider said the services allow the mechanical bull, obstacle course, refresh- specifically for student use. of 6,299 undergraduates and 2,138 gradu- great to work with.” library to operate 24/7. ments), an MCV Campus carnival, a pa- The opening of the bottom two floors is ate students. This is a small number is com- Construction began in spring 2014. Ac- “The library fee has helped us in two rade down Harrison Street, and a tailgate only the first part of the library’s expansion. parison to VCU’s 23,962 undergraduates and cording to Ulmschneider, some of the spaces parts: one is able to operate the building and and outdoor watch party to celebrate as the The next and final phase of its opening will 5,483 graduate students. that are open are still incomplete due to the have it open around the clock,” Ulmschnei- VCU men’s basketball team opens its 2015– include the third and fourth floors, which “It’s overcrowded. I see students on the lack of furnishing. der said. “The other is to equip the building 16 season against Prairie View A&M at the are expected to be completed in late Decem- floor sitting in stacks, so they have no place to More technology will be added to the first with the kind of high end computing equip- Stuart C. Siegel Center. ber and will be furnished and open for the go for their study work,” Ulmschneider said. and second floors before construction is fin- ment in the basement that would otherwise View the complete VCU Homecoming spring semester. “We hope students can find a place where ished, Ulmschneider said. not be available.” 2015 schedule at http://vcuhomecoming. According to John Ulmschneider, the uni- they can be able to sit, do their work and find “We have new group study rooms, won- The Starbucks on the first floor is also be- com. versity librarian, VCU worked with the con- a computer, and that’s incredibly important derful glass-enclosed group study rooms. But ing expanded and is expected to be complet- struction contractor, W.M Jordan Company, for the work our students are doing.” they don’t have monitors in yet,” Ulmschnei- ed in early spring. to have construction on the library completed W.M Jordan Company is based in Nor- der said. by final exams. folk and has an office in Richmond. The -con Although W.M. Jordan Company stayed www.commonwealthtimes.org Monday, November 9, 2015 5 Stat of the Week Senior Melvin Johnson needs 77 three-pointers to break Troy Daniels sports record for career makes at VCU. KOREY BILLBURY/ MO ALIE-COX/ NO. 12 NO. 24 6-foot-7, 250 pounds 6-foot-4, 210 pounds Hometown: Alexandria,Va./ Hometown: Tulsa, Okla./ Oral Middleburg, Academy Roberts University The Breakdown Position: Forward Position: Guard BRYANT DRAYTON ALL PHOTOS BY BROOKE MARSH Class: Junior Class: Senior Sports Editor Known for his abruptive shot Billbury came to VCU at a blocking capability, Alie-Cox much needed time. The strong is a bruiser on the lo block. and sturdy scorer offers an Averaged seven points and six well-equipped offensively rebounds per game last season. talented playmaker, capable Alie-Cox provides a dominant of scoring from every aspect # force in the paint for the Rams of the game. A bigger guard on the offensive and defensive at 210 pounds, Billbury is ends of the court. His “Mo says able to drive to the basket on No” trademark has resonates smaller defenders and provide across the Stu after each rebounds at the guard position. blocked shot. Mo was voted to The Tulsa native averaged 14.4 the Atlantic 10 preseason third points and 7 rebounds for ORU team and all defensive team. last season.Prediction: 13 PPG/ Prediction: 7 PPG/10 RPG. 7 RPG. 12 JORDAN BURGESS/ NO. 20 DOUG BROOKS/ NO. 5

6-foot-5, 225 pounds 6-foot-4, 195 pounds Hometown: Richmond, Va./ Benedictine Hometown: Lake Wales, Fl./ Lake Wells Position: Guard Position: Guard Class: Junior Class: Junior Possibly the strongest player on the team 24 A lethal shooter that came on late in the pound-for-pound, Burgess brings physicality to season for the Rams last season, Brooks the game, often times assigned to shut down offers instant offense off the bench. the opposing team’s top playmaker. Burgess, Brooks shot 40 percent from the three- finally healthy, shot the ball well last season, point line and 62.1 percent from the field hitting big three’s when given the opportunity. last season. Tallied 14 points against Ohio His five points and four rebounds average last State in the NCAA tournament game to season will escalate with a heavier role this close the season. season. Prediction: 7 PPG/ 2 RPG. Prediction: 8 PPG/ 4 RPG. 5 TOREY BURSTON/ NO. 14 SAMIR DOUGHTY/ NO. 2 5-foot-8, 180 pounds 6-foot-4, 180 pounds Hometown: Richmond,Va./ Philadelphia, Pa./ Math Civics and Sciences Trinity Episcopal School Position: Guard Position: Guard 20 Class: Junior Class: Freshman

A late addition into the program, Doughty A scrappy, relentless defender, provides a strong scoring threat for the set to see critical minutes on future. Averaging 25 points per game in the court this season according high school, Doughty was ranked the NO. to coach Wade. Probably the 35 point guard in the country and No. 6 fastest player on the squad, player in the state of PA. Burston’s main objective will be Prediction: 3 PPG/ 1 APG. to provide pressure in the full 14 court press, forcing opponent’s into turnovers turned into fast break points. Prediction: 2 PPG/ 2 SPG.

2 MICHAEL GILMORE/ NO. 11 6-foot-10, 215 pounds AHMED HAMDY-MOHAMED/ NO. 23 Jacksonville, Fla. Position: Guard 6-foot-9, 230 pounds Class: Sophomore Hometown: Alexandria, Egypt/ Lee College Position: Forward A long, capable scorer for the Rams, Gilmore will be an asset to Class: Junior the offense this season. With an improved jumpshot able to extend 11 to the three-point line, Gilmore provides a matchup problem for Known by “Hamdy” his presence on the low block forwards unable to move their feet to stick with him. The Florida will be much needed this season to go along with native shot 48 percent from the floor last season. Prediction: 5 PPG/ Alie-Cox. A high motor around the basket and 5 RPG. a proven offensive weapon, Hamdy gives VCU the depth it needs down low. Last season at Lee College, Hamdy average 16.6 PPG to go alongside 10.7 RPG. Prediction: 5 PPG/ 7 RPG. MELVIN JOHNSON/ NO. 32 23 6-foot-4, 190 pounds Hometown: Bronx, NY./ St. Benedict’s Prep NJ Position: Guard Class: Senior

The leader of the team, Johnson is the face of VCU basketball. Johnson was named to the preseason A-10 Third Team, coming off a successful season last year, JEQUAN LEWIS/ NO. 1 averaging 12.4 PPG while amassing an impressive 40 32 percent field goal percentage. The NY native will rely 6-foot-1, 180 pounds on his three-point shooting to lead the Rams back to Hometown: Dickson Tn./ Dickson County an A-10 Championship this year. Prediction: 14 PPG/ 3 Position: Guard APG. Class: Junior

Quick, explosive and great court vision describe the play of the Tennessee native, Lewis is primed to take over the reigns at point guard. Coming off a season where he averaged 8.5 PPG and 2.7 APG, Lewis will 1 be called on to step up big for the Rams. Limiting turnovers will be the focus for him to improve on this season. Prediction: 9 PPG/ 6 APG. JONATHAN NWANKWO/ NO. 33

6-foot-9, 245 pounds Hometown: Bronx, NY./ Victory Rock Prep Position: Forward 33 Class: Freshman Nwankwo brings a big body to the program, able to learn from Alie-Cox and Hamdy about the position before he is rushed into action. Nwankwo was the No. JORDAN RIULLANO/ NO. 35 19 Center in the country out of high school. Prediction: Redshirt 5-foot-9, 185 pounds Hometown: Bronx, NY/ Victory Rocky Prep Position: Guard 35 Class: Freshman Riullano provides depth at the point guard GERON SCISSUM/ NO. 22 position for the future. The Bronx native will probably take on a similiar role as Burston, 6-foot-7, 210 pounds observing and adjusting to the game at this Hometown: Huntsville, Ala./ Lee level before playing later on in his career. Huntsville Prediction: Redshirt Position: Forward 22 Class: Freshman Scissum is a lean, high motor big man with a good feel for the game. His best work will come on the defensive end in the future. Averaged 16.4 PPG and 9.0 RPG last season for Lee Huntsville. 4 Prediction: Limited Action/Redshirt. JUSTIN TILLMAN/ NO. 4

6-foot-7, 215 pounds Hometown: Detroit, MI/ Pershing Position: Forward Class: Sophomore JONATHAN WILLIAMS/ “Flash” Williams, a nickname deservant due to his lightning quick Tillman is VCU’s human highlight reel. The NO. 10 ability to push the ball, is set to play most heralded of the 2014 recruiting class, 10 crucial minutes at point guard. His Tillman is a big-time dunk machine. Known 6-foot-1, 185 pounds defensive pressure in the full court for his tenacious defensive ability, he has Hometown: Richmond,Va./St. press and speed to beat his man worked to improve his mid range jump-shot Benedict’s Prep NJ off the dribble give him the edge to to better contribute on the offensive end. Position: Guard become a solid point guard for the Prediction: Dunks, Dunks, and More Dunks Class: Sophomore program. Prediction: 4 PPG/ 3 APG. — 6 PPG/ 6 RPG. 6 The Commonwealth Times sports

ALL PHOTOS BY BROOKE MARSH Rams look to defend A-10 Tournament Championship PETER MASON the program and that’s what I focus on shot an average of 65.6 percent. the “Mo says no” chant Contributing Writer every day, being the best head coach for “Our guys are ready to play some- from the home crowd. VCU that I can be. I think if we can do body else at this point,” Wade said. “On defense we always The pressure is on for men’s basket- that and work really hard, good things “We’ve been playing each other for a try to pressure the ball at all ball with the season tip-off being so are going to happen.” long time. I think the time in the sum- times,” Alie-Cox said. “We’re close. The Rams will be tested early in mer certainly helped. It used to be you trying to get a lot of deflections Last season, VCU won its first the season with games against Duke started practice on Oct. 15 and it was and always get our hands on the championship as a member of the At- University and Florida State University. a huge deal. Now since we’ve got the ball on the defensive end, whether lantic 10 conference before making its Duke will come into this season as the players year round, it’s a bit of a con- it be blocks, getting in the passing fifth straight appearance in the NCAA defending NCAA champions. tinuum. It’s a different phase of practice lane. On offense, we’re just keeping tournament, ultimately falling 75-72 “I’m not too concerned about what and it’s a different phase of work.” the floor spread and getting the ball in in overtime to Ohio State University. they are right now,” said senior guard Last year in the A-10, the Rams the post and play a little more inside In the 2015 season the Rams will aim Korey Billbury. “I don’t care if you’re lost six tough matches including two out than we have been in the past.” for a sixth-straight NCAA tournament ranked No.1 or No. 351, you’re just not against crosstown rival Richmond. The “The thing I’m looking forward to appearance. better than the team I’m playing for.” Spiders came into the Stu last season the most about this season is probably “Our depth is going to have to really VCU finished the 2014 regular and defeated the Rams 64-55, then the home games,” said junior guard come through for us,” said Head Coach season with a record of 22-9, and a later when VCU traveled to Richmond, Torey Burston. “The fans coming out, Will Wade. “We’re going to need to be record of 12-6 in the Atlantic 10. In they fell 67-63 in double overtime to U just the new look, our new defense and consistent with what we do and how we the A-10 Tournament, the Rams were of R. They also suffered home losses to new style of play with Coach Wade.” approach each game every day. There’s able to claim the championship with opponents like Dayton, in which the The Rams will begin A-10 play very thin margins between being an wins against Fordham University, the Explorers defeated the Rams 74-69 and on Jan. 2 with a home game against NCAA tournament team and not. University of Richmond, Davidson the Flyers bested the Rams 59-55. All George Mason. Johnson knocked down 86 We have the talent to do it, we have College and finally Dayton University. losses where the Rams potentially had “Once you get into the conference three-pointers in his junior the depth to do it and now it’s on us to Richmond, Davidson and Dayton the lead, but were unable to hold off play, it gets a little rough,” Wade campaign last season. make it happen by getting a little bit all had wins against the Rams in the their opponents. said. “We’re just working daily to get better every day.” regular season. “Taking care of the ball is a big better. We want to get better in the Wade will take the helm of VCU “You can get beaten on any day thing we’ve been focusing on this sum- non-conference based on who we’re basketball for his first season as head in this league,” senior guard Melvin mer,” said junior Mo Alie-Cox. “One playing, how we’re playing, what coach. Wade served as an assistant Johnson said. “Everyone’s good, every- thing the coach talks about is our ef- we’re doing and we’ll certainly test coach at VCU for four seasons, 2009- one has good players. You just have to fort. We should always be playing hard. some things out in the non-con- 13 including the Final Four run, before prepare well.” If we play hard I think we can compete ference play that we’ll use for the he went to coach for two seasons at The Rams averaged 72.5 points per with any team.” A-10 play and setting things up Chattanooga. game last year and in the Atlantic 10 Alie-Cox is one of the returning in the non-conference that we’ll “I can’t try to beat Shaka Smart,” averaged 69.3 points. They also shot an starters for VCU, starting in all 36 change for A-10 play.” Wade said. “I’m Will Wade, and we’re average of 34.3 percent in three point- games back in the 2014 season. His going to run the program how I run ers. From the free throw line, the Rams defensive presence for the Rams earned Transfer Billbury ready to bring “bully” mentality to VCU

I’m pretty chill lot of weight with the guys.” and I’m not His senior status, experience and quality play has led him to really like an become one of the team lead- angry person ... I don’t ers. He tries to keep himself yell and all that kind of consistent to ensure that his teammates know what the stuff. standard is. — KOREY BILLBURY “They know what they are going to get from me,” Billbury said. “They know they are not going to get an energetic team that they have been in up-and-down leader. I’m going to do previous years. what I’m supposed to do and handle “Just for them to come out and my business.” support us like that,” Billbury said. Billbury has also been regarded as “We owe it to them to come out on a “bully” on the court, due to his ag- the floor every game and bust our gressive attitude and ability to take Billbury averaged 14.4 PPG for ORU last season to go along behinds and get wins and be the smaller defenders to the rim without with 7.4 rebounds. program that we’ve always been.” hesitation. His relentlessness to win It should come as no surprise that has asserted him to finding success ERIKA ROBINSON Billbury’s excitement for the Billbury has emerged as a sound in the Rams exhibition game. He Korey Billbury season to start was validated when player for the Rams, he averaged 14.4 registered his first double-double he took the court for VCU’s Annual points and 7.4 rebounds per contest of the season with 10 points and a Excitement: the feeling Korey Black and Gold game and heard the as well as leading ORU with 206 game-high 11 rebounds. Billbury has as the season approach- fans for the first time. total rebounds last season. Billbury “It felt really good, it felt like es. “The amount of love is crazy that wants to be viewed by his teammates home,” Billbury said after Fri- Billbury, a redshirt senior guard they give us and the support they as someone who leads by example. day night’s contest. “I haven’t who transferred from Oral Roberts give us,” Billbury said. “5,500 people “I’m pretty chill and I’m not really played on a team since University came to VCU and sur- showing up to our scrimmage is like an angry person,” Billbury said. February so it was just good prised everyone with his level of play. absolutely crazy. I never thought that “I don’t yell and all that kind of stuff. to get out with the guys I While basketball is fun for Billbury, would happen.” I’d rather let them see me doing actually like playing with he is also focused. Billbury said he hopes to show something than hear me talking and have good chemistry For him, this is business. fans the team is still the same highly about it, so I feel like that carries a with.”

Changing of the guard VCU holds first tailgate for season opener

ZACH JOACHIM their support and enjoy conces- According to Tim Lampe, with fans by setting up a pseudo- Contributing Writer sions. It is also the only open-to- the director of facilities, West village area between the Stu and the-public tailgate event sched- Marshall Street will be roped practice facility. For the first time,VCU plans uled on the season, but the hope off between Kinney and Norton Tents up to 10-by-10 can be to designate multiple tailgating is to add more according to VCU Streets. Food and beer trucks allowed to be set up on Harrison, areas for the men’s basketball Alumni running the event. will be set up in this area, and the but VCU Alumni (waiting for home opener and homecoming From 4-7 p.m. on Nov. 13, doors on the Marshall Street side response about alumni) requests game Fri. Nov. 13 against Prairie Harrison Street will also be of the Stu have been outfitted advance notification because View A&M University. closed off for VCU Homecom- with scanners and card readers so they cannot guarantee spots will One of the areas will be be- ing’s “Chill and enjoy the grill” fans can now from that side. be available. Tickets are $10 for tween the Siegel Center and the event. This tailgate will consist of According to Lampe, the idea students and $15 for faculty, staff Basketball Development Center. food trucks, a cash bar, T-shirt to close off Marshall is a product and alumni. The Marshall Street tailgate swap, giveaways and a live DJ. of Rams fans asking if the new Watch parties will also be held will act as a football-esque event Winning team of the homecom- practice facility would be used during the game on both Har- that will be new for VCU. This is ing spirit competition will also be for hospitality events. The facility rison Street and Marshall Street the first-ever free area designated crowned. has only one public restroom, so for those who do not have tickets. by the Rams for fans to show Lampe and VCU compromised

Williams and Lewis provide speed and athleticims at the PG position. —continued from page 1 I see us two guards taking the lead. winning a lot “Briante was one-of-a-kind, but if everyone is this year we plan on coming with able to play their role. the same pressure defensively and as a team hope to be just as effective,” We’re ready to go. Lewis said. “I see us winning a lot — JEQUAN LEWIS if everyone is able to play their role. We’re ready to go.” Williams and Lewis combined Lewis was unable to provide for most of the minutes at the point an instant spark in the exhibition guard position of the 96-60 win. match against California Univer- Williams performed better, scoring sity of Pennsylvania. The junior 11 points and two assists to only one struggled to get going offensively turnover. Lewis scored a modest and turned the ball over early. Wil- four points, but was able to pass the liams on the other hand displayed ball to shooters on the fast break, his improved game and ability to totaling seven assist in 15 minutes. act as a floor general, understanding However Lewis did succumb to when to push the rock and when three turnovers. to have the offense settle into their offensive set. The tailgate offers students a “football saturday” experience for the first time. www.commonwealthtimes.org Monday, November 9, 2015 7 Men’s basketball shakes off slow start to tame the Blaze

—continued from page 1 Mike Gilmore showed off his on the offensive and defensive improved shooting stroke, knock- glass, amassing seven rebounds this team for us to be successful, ing down three of his seven points and six hard-earned points in 14 so it’s more of a shoot-first, think- at the top of the key, increasing the minutes of game action. later mentality for me this year.” lead to 44-31 going into halftime. With 5:45 remaining in the Lewis, who is slated to be the VCU kept the pressure on as game, Johnson would add to his team’s leader at the point guard the second half commenced with scoring efforts, connecting on position, struggled early with fouls Johnson getting off to a hot to start the final of his four three-point and had to sit most of the first half. with a made three point basket, field goals extending the lead to For the Rams, this ignited the duo the score increased to 47-31 with 75-55. After an Alie-Cox rebound, of sophomore Jonathan Williams 19:00 remaining in the game. Johnson received the outlet pass, and junior Torey Burston. Both “Flash” Williams and Burston catching his man in the air to draw played side-by-side, attacking would again lead the Ram defense, the foul on a mid-range jumpshot opposing ball handlers, offering creating fast break opportunities by the foul line, 79-55 VCU. a suffocating opposition for the from turnovers. Billbury cashed in The onslaught would continue, Blaze guards bringing the ball up two of his 10 points for the game with VCU cruising to victory after the court. on an assist by Flash off a Blaze Williams converted a fastbreak The pace of the game changed turnover, 55-40 VCU with 12:30 layup to increase the lead to 89-57 for the Rams after Billbury fin- remaining. with 2:14 remaining. Gilmore ished the assist by Williams off an “Well, they are the two who would put everyone on their feet in errant Blaze pass. Wade’s pressure seem to want to pressure the ball the waning seconds as he was left defensively was able to trouble the most,” Wade said of Williams wide open under the basket, grip- A deeper bench provides the depth to increase the pace for the Rams in 2015-16. the Cal(Penn.) offense into costly and Burtson. “(Burston) eats the ping the basketball in preparation turnovers. Williams recorded ball up, I thought he changed the for an impressive windmill dunk to bury, the Oral Roberts University eligibility purposes. Sunday to get ready to go, because back-to-back buckets off deflected momentum in the first half.” end the game. transfer, finished the game with a “Defensively we’ve got plenty of certainly will be a step up in com- passes and scored each in transi- Alie-Cox had a quiet perfor- Johnson converted 20 points double-double accounting for 10 work to do, offensively we weren’t petition this next week or so.” tion extending the lead 38-30 with mance, suffering from foul trouble for the Rams, leading his team in points and 11 rebounds. perfect we turned the ball over too The Rams return to the Stu to 1:42 remaining in the first half. early as well as a larger defender in scoring, while Burgess would go Freshman Samir Doughty and much, we were a little too jittery,” start the 2015-16 season against The Rams’ pressure on the basket- Cal(Penn.) Tony Richardson. His on to score 16 points off the bench junior Doug Brooks did not dress Wade said. “We are a work in Prairie View A&M University ball would continue and VCU kept replacement, Hamdy-Mohamed, on impressive drives to the basket out for the Rams, Brooks for team progress, we have plenty of work to Nov. 13 at 7 p.m. extending the lead. Sophomore provided a much-needed presence and three-point shooting. Bill- related reasons and Doughty for do and we have to get back to work Free throw woes have Rams running through the Stu

FADEL ALLASSAN Larrier is summoned to the foul 83.3 percent conversion rate at the free throw line in 2014-15 — the improved results. The former Rams Fans of VCU will hope that the Staff Writer line. VCU’s fourth-best free-throw line. Had the Rams had similar second worst in the Atlantic 10 assistant under Shaka Smart comes players assertions will be affirmed, shooter dropped his shoulders, success, it’s possible the game may conference, beating out only Saint from a University of Tennessee at but only time will tell whether the There were 12 minutes remain- sprung them back up and hurled have been a more competitive con- Joseph’s University and 14 percent Chattanooga team that averaged team can move beyond its free- ing in VCU’s crucial cross-town the ball toward the basket — an- test. Instead, the Rams were upset below the best shooting team in the 68.5 percent, just about 3 percent throw slump. contest against the University of other miss. 64-55 against their rivals. league, Fordham University. higher than VCU’s last year. In the exhibition match against Richmond when former guard It was an all-too-familiar sight Last season, VCU ranked 292 With last year’s two best free- “Free throws are something California University of Pennsyl- Treveon Graham was fouled. With for home fans. The Rams have not in the NCAA Division 1 for free- throw shooters still on the squad, we’ve been practicing a lot,” vania Friday, VCU as a team shot the Rams down 32-39 at the Siegel averaged higher than 70 percent at throw percentage, a ranking which the Rams are hopeful the team’s Johnson said. ”Whenever we have 62.5 percent (20-32) for the game, Center, Graham stepped up to the the charity strike since the 2012-13 exists in stark contrast to the team’s statistics from the line can reflect breaks in practice we use the time compared to Cal(Penn.)’s 71.8 foul line. As usual, he emitted the season, a year that saw five players Associated Press rankings, where the habits of two of its current lead- to do free-throw lines. We’re going percent (20-27). confident swagger that you would shoot better than 70 percent at the the Rams were considered one of ers: Johnson — as did the habits of to be better at that now.” “Really disappointed in our free expect from any team’s leading line: Troy Daniels, Briante Weber, the top-25 teams in the country for last year’s seniors Graham and We- Junior forward Mo Alie-Cox throw shooting,” Wade said. “Not scorer. With his knees bent slightly, current senior guard Melvin John- seven weeks of the season. ber -- shot 69.1 percent and 70.1 echoed the views of his teammate. that we missed, but we didn’t stick he raised the ball to a shooting son, Treveon Graham and Juvonte It’s no secret that VCU’s ability percent respectively from the line. “That was something we really to our routine to come off the line position and released toward the Reddic. — or inability — to take advan- The players believe an increased needed to work on last year and we like we are suppose to, but I was basket — the shot did not fall. Against U of R, the Rams shot tage of fouls has hampered the focus on free-throw shooting in did a lot independently to all get proud we got two free-throw of- Minutes later, with the score 61.5 percent at the line while their team’s chances to win games. The practice since the arrival of new better, I think we’ll be much better fensive rebounds.” at 39-35, freshman forward Terry opponents eclipsed them with an Rams shot 65.7 percent from the head coach Will Wade will mean this season,” Alie-Cox said.

VCU adjusts junior Mo Alie-Cox said. “We myself, I didn’t really play as well them life after college basketball. to life without have a good head coach now and as I could have. It is what it is, Speakers have taught etiquette New coach, he proved he can be successful. but I feel like we’re a really good and how to manage their money. Shaka Smart. We just have to go out there team and with the coach transi- ”I tell my guys there’s a dif- and prove everyday we’re a good tion a lot of people are doubting, ference between getting a degree same team, team and the team we know we which is perfectly fine. Guys are and getting an education,” Wade are.” internalizing that and it’s fuel to said. “Anyone can come here and For the first time in two the fire.” get a degree. (I want parents) years, VCU didn’t rank in the During his last season as coming to me at graduation tell- same mentality top-25 in the NCAA preseason VCU’s assistant coach in 2013, ing me I made their son a man.” rankings. Wade took on the role of helping Wade recognizes Richmond “It is what it is,” Wade said. Johnson transition into college has become a basketball city SOPHIA BELLETTI ing out to do their job.” “People just don’t know what during his freshman year. Nearly even more since he left and he Staff writer On April 3, Richmond’s we have. I think we have a good three years later, Wade said plans to keep it that way. Play- beloved Smart, the man who team and we’ll see what hap- Johnson has matured and sees a ers have shown discipline and Attitude. It’s what makes turned the River City upside pens. You can’t worry about the successful man and a leader. humbleness, two keys to success. a player, defines a team down and into a basketball preseason poll. The reality is we Wade has continuously made “Our fans are awesome,” and determines the out- town, announced he accepted came in fifth place in the league it a point to turn his players into Wade said. “It’s great for the come of every game. the position as head coach at the last year and we lost our leading successful young men on and off university, players and the Everyone loves an University of Texas for the 2015- scorer, it kind of make sense. But the court. students. It’s great for the city underdog story and that’s 16 season. With his departure, they haven’t see our improve- The basketball staff checks in to thrive. Our goal is to keep exactly what VCU has the outlook for the season with- ments or Billbury or the other on the player’s classes and Wade it moving in a positive direc- given college basketball out Smart was up in the air. guys.” meets with every player indi- tion and grow the support, keep over the past few years. Any time a team loses a coach Despite winning the confer- vidually on Tuesdays. people excited and bring new The Rams are notorious who goes only by his first name, ence last season, the Atlantic Every Sunday evening, Wade folks.” when it comes to a work- it’s a problem. But a lot of recent 10’s annual men’s basketball brings in a guest speaker to show hard, play-hard attitude. talk has revolved around who preseason poll predicted VCU On March 27, 2011, the will replace departed seniors to finish fifth. Senior Melvin No. 11 seed Rams caused Treveon Graham and Briante Johnson and Alie-Cox were one of the biggest March Weber, as well as freshman all named to the Preseason upsets in years, when they Terry Larrier. All-Conference Third Team. defeated the No. 1 seed Kan- With the loss of the coach Alie-Cox, VCU’s rim protector, sas Jayhawks, 71-61, which who put VCU basketball on the was also named to the A-10 all led to VCU’s first Final Four map, the team’s leading scorer, defensive team. birth in program history. VCU a point guard who was on the The players recognize the became just the third 11th- verge of breaking collegiate reasoning behind the rankings, seed to make the Final Four. records and a top-ranked recruit but don’t read too far into them. “Once again we felt like with promising potential, doubt Johnson, the second-leading nobody really thought we could hovers over the program. scorer last season, said he isn’t win going into this game,” said “We’re being doubted because interested in personal statistics, previous head coach Shaka we lost Tre, Bri and Coach he just wants to win. Smart. “Our guys have done a Smart — and I think it’s mostly “We’re self-motivated, we’re phenomenal job of putting all Coach Smart — but some motivated just to win whether the doubters aside, all the people people don’t realize the coach it’s Duke or Prairie View,” that didn’t believe in us, and go- isn’t the one playing the game,” Johnson said. “I take the pride VCU is “self motivated” to quiet critics ADVERTISEMENT 8 The Commonwealth Times On this day in 1989, the Berlin Wall opened spectrum after dividing the city for 28 years. Banana stand on standby, Jeffrey Tambor shares life story AUSTIN WALKER by Modlin Center Executive Direc- lines as the student, Tambor was Spectrum Editor tor Deborah Sommers, who read visibly annoyed with his perfor- a biography that called Tambor an mance. Tambor stopped him short, A crowd of energized young incisive talent that has been enter- ending the exercise after telling the student actors, television viewers and taining audiences for nearly four instructor that he needs to get out of intrigued adults piled into the Camp decades. his head and use his heart instead. Concert Hall at the University of A thread that ran throughout The crowd didn’t applaud or laugh, Richmond as they waited for what the entire presentation dealt with unsure how to react. promised to be an interesting night his overcoming of personal issues, Tambor didn’t shy away from with Jeffrey Tambor. ranging from substance abuse to self-deprecation either, but he always The Emmy-winning artist hosted self-doubt. had an explanation. At one point, the part-lecture, part-performance, “I am the Jewish son of Russian- he spoke about his father’s experi- part-rant titled “Performing Your Hungarian parents,” he said to a ences with the Holocaust, being Life” at the Modlin Center for the timidly-laughing audience. “Happi- Jewish, and how he instilled a fear of Arts on Oct. 28, where he detailed ness wasn’t even on the menu.” celebration in Tambor. some of his hilarious and tragic Tambor’s performance was un- “Don’t say anything. Don’t say history. doubtedly intended to motivate the anything. They’ll take it away from Amidst roaring applause, audience to achieve greatness. He you,” Tambor said, quoting his Tambor, dressed in slacks and blue would regularly recite quotes from father. “This actor, when he was button-up, casually walked onto articles, speakers and friends that walking up to receive his Emmy, the stage, but stopped his opening talked about the youth’s potential was shushing himself.” remarks almost immediately. He and the purpose of existence. Tambor clearly wanted the audi- was beginning to describe how the The atmosphere remained light ence to believe in their own abilities upcoming lecture came to be, when thanks to Tambor’s snippy humor and strive for greatness. While he he decided to tell a story about an that regularly engaged the audi- was an actor, and many of his stories interaction he’d had earlier that day. ence, often through insulting them. related to him auditioning, being on He’d met a man who nearly recog- He would shush the crowd, or ask set or discovering his passion for act- nized him, but Tambor pretended to a question and immediately cut-off ing, he would always try and make it be someone else. the answerer. Some of these incisive relatable to people going for different “When I left and I got to the comments lacked any humor, and fields. elevator, I heard him talking stuff one of the most tense moments came Still, at various points throughout about me,” Tambor said. “It was not midway through his presentation. the evening, Tambor would ask for nice, and I felt horrible.” Tambor has worked for 40 years the actors in the crowd to raise their That was the end of the anecdote: as an acting coach and teacher, and hands — a command which gar- flat and dry. This set the pace for brought some volunteers on stage to nered wide response. He encouraged the entire evening, as Tambor lulled demonstrate some of the work that these aspiring students to meet with between deeply emotional and per- he does. One of the volunteers was him after the show. sonal stories to inspirational quotes a student at U of R, and the other Actors and non-actors alike were from old friends and acquaintances, was a faculty member of the school’s a part of the question and answer interjected with his exceptionally dry theatre department. session before Tambor left the venue. humor. Tambor instructed the student to People asked him questions about Tambor is known best for his recite lines from “A Letter to Agnes his fondest memories on set, advice leading role in “Arrested Develop- DeMille,” prodding her and frus- on beginning careers and one VCU ment” and “Transparent,” the latter trating her until she was shouting on student extended an open invite to being his portrayal of a late-life the stage, and the crowd wound up come to the university to speak. transgendered woman. Tambor has applauding her performance. When Tambor ended the night with one been in countless other films, theat- it became the instructor’s turn, of his character’s most memorable rical productions and television roles, Tambor was annoyed by his attitude, quotes: with his career beginning at an early as he dismissed and joked about “There’s always money in the age in the ’70s. Tambor’s remarks. banana stand!” ILLUSTRATION BY DANIEL TORRACA He was introduced to the stage Once he began reciting the same HI Richmond introduces first hostel to the river city

FADEL ALLASSAN to ourselves,” said Ethan Ashley, “I think it’s a beautiful space Staff Writer the general manager of Richmond for people to communicate,” Hostel. “With a hostel, it doesn’t Farque said. “The living space Travellers, students, vagrants allow you to be completely by is comfortable too, it’s very eye and more are all invited to Rich- yourself all the time. But that catching. It definitely has a rustic mond’s first hostel, which opened can be an advantage, because you style, with a little bit of city life. its doors right before the UCI get to meet new people and share It feels like you’re on the railways Worlds. tourism information.” by the river. It’s very southern, Unlike a hotel and its ex- Hostels typically attempt to you wouldn’t see an interior that travagant amenities, guests are reflect the culture and history of looks like this in New York.” welcomed by a modest doorway the location in which they reside. The idea of a hostel is relatively leading to a narrow staircase with The Richmond hostel is no differ- obscure, but the independant the words “Hi, let’s spend some ent: The words “Richmond” and hostel industry is rapidly growing PHOTOS BY FADEL ALLASSAN time together” printed on the “RVA” are decoratively displayed in cities around the world. Ac- One of the bedrooms at “HI Richmond.” Hostel bedrooms are often shared with strangers. adjacent wall. It isn’t until patrons on the walls throughout the cording to the New York Times, walk up the staircase that they hostel as a tribute to Virginia’s during the 2008 economic crisis, the hostel are given back to the Richmond engage in community “We’re still new so we don’t find themselves in the lobby. capital. The walls have kept their as hotels across the United States community. The hostel hosts service. have many volunteers but we’re This is only one part of a chain uncolored brick and wooden ap- reported low occupancy rates, community events for its tempo- For now, Ashley is focusing on working to find more,” Ashley of worldwide hostels called Hos- pearance from the days when the hostels found that their occupan- rary residents as well as locals. his efforts to spread word of the said “It’s rewarding to volunteer telling International. The orga- building was a women’s prison cy rates had risen. The hostel will also be work- new hostel not only so it can have with us. Volunteers can earn free nization has hostels in over fifty — though viewers of the build- While Hostel International ing with Habitat for Humanity more guests in the future, but stays at any hostels and other countries. In August, they opened ing today may find this hard to originally bought the midtown while some members come to volunteers as well. amenities.” ‘HI Richmond,’ adding the River believe. space in 2007, plans to build the City to its collection of venues. Although there is plenty of hostel had to be put on hold due Hostels aren’t anything like decoration and furniture in the to some of the company’s internal hotels — a hostel is a low-budget, lobby and kitchen in the hostel, setbacks. The hostel was finally sociable version of a hotel, where the occupancy spaces are more completed in August, in time for guests can book beds instead of modest in their design, and most the UCI Road World Cycling Shaferbird Feature rooms, often sharing their room rooms give the guests the essen- Championships in September. with strangers. While some may tials: a bed (sometimes a bunk), a “We didn’t get as much busi- Shafer Bird is part of the Mesh Media Network, a division of VCU Student Media. The Shafer Bird find this uncomfortable, the idea window and a communal rest- ness as we expected during the team works to bring the VCU community menu updates and original content, including reviews of behind it is that guests can meet room. bike race. I think a lot of local on- and off-campus restaurants. www.shaferbird.com strangers to tour with while in a Junior interior design major companies had that problem as foreign city or country. Noshin Faruque, who inspected well,” Ashley said. “We have a different concept the interior of the hostel as part Like many of the residents in of privacy in the United States of a class visit, felt that the design it, the hostel is still adjusting to Quality Over than they do in Europe. We like of the hostel did justice to the life in Richmond. As a non-prof- to have our own space and keep historic aspect of the city. it, the costs not used to maintain Quantity at Black Hand Coffee Co. Café / Coffeehouse

“The fresh tomato and pesto really makes their bacon, egg and cheese stand out from its competition. While they don’t offer the variety that can be found at Lamplighter, the quality of their minimalist menu is better than Lift. Overall, if you’re going to Black Hand for fantastic coffee, you won’t be disappointed if you get hungry.” — GRANT SMITH PHOTO BY GRANT SMITH PHOTOS BY FADEL ALLASSAN A cup of coffee at Black One of the lobbies at the new hostel in downtown Richmond. Rooms like these allow for Hand Coffee Co. patrons to socialize with others during their stay in the city. www.commonwealthtimes.org Monday, November 9, 2015 9 A glimpse at the work of VCUarts visiting faculty ADRIEL VELASQUEZ Contributing Writer Roger Beebe Christian Patterson Ernesto Pujol Other Visiting Artists Roger Beebe was a guest lecturer presented by the VCUarts depart- Christian Patterson is an artist Ernesto Pujol was a visiting Nir Evron ment of Photography and Film who gave a lecture on Oct. 27 lecturer who came to VCU on Evron is a Tel Aviv-based Israeli who gave a lecture on Oct. 9 at in the Student Commons here April 11. He gave a workshop titled artist who opened a new solo show Candela Books + Gallery. Beebe is at VCU. Patterson is a photog- “Performing the Human Spirit: at the Depot Gallery on Nov. 6. an associate professor at the Ohio rapher who often accompanies Reclaiming Religion as Credible On Oct. 5, he held a lecture pre- State University. He has screened his photography with drawings, Material for Art Making in the sented by VCU Photography and his films around the globe with paintings, objects or sound. His West.” It was presented by the Film at the Depot that dealt with solo shows at the Laboratorio Arte work Redheaded Peckerwood won Marcia Powell Festival of Religion kinetic imaging. Evron has been Alameda (Mexico City), the School the 2012 Recontres d’Arles Author and the Arts at VCU. included in group exhibitions at of the Art Institute of Chicago, and Book Award and is not in its third WHAT ARE YOU SPECIALIZED IN AND venues such as the New Museum, dozens of other venues. Beebe is printing. New York; The Israel Museum, also a film programmer. WHAT DID YOU TEACH VCU ARTS STU- WHAT ARE YOU SPECIALIZED IN AND DENTS WHEN YOU CAME TO VCU? Jerusalem, and more. He explores WHAT ARE YOU SPECIALIZED IN AND WHAT DID YOU TEACH VCU ARTS STU- the intersections of history and ​I am a performance artist, but media, time and technology, and WHAT DID YOU TEACH VCU ARTS STU- DENTS WHEN YOU CAME TO VCU? I only did graduate art studio cri- DENTS WHEN YOU CAME TO VCU? the relationship between the My work is most often pre- tiques, during a special visit, giving documenter, the documented and I’m a filmmaker and one of conceptualized and begins with creative feedback to the students on the viewer. the things I’m best known for is photographs that are the heart of a multitude of different ambitious my multi-projector performances the work, and are then surrounded, projects.​ Daphne Fitzpatrick (using up to eight projectors total, complemented and informed by including six 16mm projectors). other mediums and other ma- WHAT INSPIRES YOUR ART? Fitzpatrick is an American One of those film performances terials — and depending on the The evolving flow of the human Contemporary artist who held a is what I did during my visit to project, these things could include condition ​ and the sustainability of lecture presented by VCU Sculp- Richmond. documents, objects, paintings or American democracy, which needs ture and Photography and Film at readymade sculptures. I work with space for silent reflection about our the Depot on Nov. 2. She comes WHAT INSPIRES YOUR ART? both appropriated and original past, present and future. from Long Island, New York, and Whether I’m shooting original materials, and I freely mix the two. has had solo exhibitions at Bell- footage or using some kind of And crucially, I also never indicate WHAT ADVICE DO YOU GIVE VCU wether, New York and La Galleria found footage from popular media the source of my materials. There STUDENTS TRYING TO BREAK OUT at La MaMa, New York. or old educational films, I think is often a certain expectation of IN THEIR ART FORM? what I’m most inspired by is ex- truth and representation associated ​I would not use a “break out” Nayland Blake ploring the ideologies embedded in with the medium of photography, expression. It is a life practice, not PHOTO COURTESY OF JOHN FREYER those texts and places and objects and this is a real gift to me and a business practice. My advice in Blake held a lecture at the Stu- An installation piece by Roger Beebe, visitor for VCUarts. that make up our everyday lives. my work. The preconceived notion developing their art work, in addi- dent Commons Theatre on Nov. 5. I’m interested in the world around of truth and the expectation of a tion to an intellectual life and skills, The lecture was presented by VCU us and I use experimental forms to certain reality in fact end up creat- is to foster interiority in order to sculpture and extended media. In- explore our collective blind spots in ing endless opportunities for me to find their voice as the foundation to terracial desire, same-sex love and that world. But I can also equally do whatever I want, after the fact finding the voice of their society. racial and sexual bigotry are recur- be inspired by just some idea — to fracture things and explore rent themes in Blake’s sculptures, about material and trying to do the spaces in between; to create my drawings, performances and vid- something with the film itself or a own little world in my work. eos. In 2012, Blake was awarded a specific camera or a new technique Guggenheim fellowship, which is that I’ve never tried before. WHAT INSPIRES YOUR ART? intended to award artists who have A natural curiosity, a juvenile demonstrated great ability in their WHAT ADVICE DO YOU GIVE VCU sense of humor, an interest in craft. STUDENTS TRYING TO BREAK OUT materials, an appreciation for the IN THEIR ART FORM? endless possibilities found between General Sisters Persevere. It took me about five fact and fiction, an obsessive na- years to start making films that I ture and a wild imagination. General Sisters presented a feel were/are really working. I was lecture on Nov. 3 at the VCU Fine very fortunate to have a supportive WHAT ADVICE DO YOU GIVE VCU Arts Building presented by VCU context around me as I was doing STUDENTS TRYING TO BREAK OUT Sculpture and Extended Media. those five years of exploration, and IN THEIR ART FORM? General Sisters is a general store it allowed me the positive feedback Sleep a lot, dream a lot, follow located in North Braddock, Pen- and encouragement I needed to your imagination, have fun and sylvania, which focuses on feeding continue making work, but I’ve take your time. the community by confronting the seen too many people give up be- racial and economic injustices evi- fore they find their idiom or their dent in the national food system, project. The world doesn’t always and working actively to change PHOTO BY OLIVIA WALTHALL make it easy to hang in there. them.

Daphne Fitzpatrick places materials on a wall for a piece. PHOT O BY OLIVIA WALTHALL

InLight plans to ignite RVA on Friday, Nov. 13 at the VMFA

SOPHIA BELLETTI exciting. Several board members 1708 Gallery. “Instead, we think happen.” evenly by local artists and nation- Staff Writer had attended “Nuit Blanche” about giving artists a platform Each year, a juror is chosen al artists. Richmond residents in Paris, an event that takes to try new stuff, so we fund the to select artists to showcase Matt Lively and Tim Harper InLight, 1708 Gallery’s big- over the city from dusk to dawn projects with installations sup- their work. 1708 Gallery aims created an interactive piece that gest event of the year, is return- and fills Paris with light-based port, as opposed to selling the to invite jurors from outside the is powered by participants. It was ing to Richmond at the Virginia installations. 1708 Gallery was artwork.” Richmond metropolitan area to created with all found objects Museum of Fine Arts for the inspired to do something similar Each year, InLight is held at a preserve an objective process, and and the light portion is a strobe eighth consecutive year Nov. in Richmond, so they held the new location. In the past, it was this year they chose Alex Baker. that animates a drawing of a 13-14. first InLight in September 2007. held at the Canal Walk and in Baker currently resides in hummingbird. A public exhibition of light- On Friday, the event will Monroe Park, but this year it will Philadelphia where he is the “Tim’s miniature kinetic based art and performances, begin with the Community be hosted by the VMFA, with director of the Fleisher/Ollman sculpture inspired me to ask InLight invites artists to a Lantern Parade and will feature installations displayed on the in- Gallery. He has organized ex- him to collaborate on a lighted, particular neighborhood, attract- performances, sculpture, video side, the front lawn and sculpture hibitions such as “Outsiderism,” scaled-up version of what he

ing audiences to various areas of and interactive projects that garden of the museum. “Eugene Von Bruenchenhein: does,” Lively said. “He uses only BROWN TERRY OF COURTESY PHOTOS Richmond. will illuminate pathways, walls, For the first time ever, In- Time Produced Non Better” and found objects and engineers them 1708 Gallery was founded in sidewalks, green spaces, trees, Light has been expanded to a “Department of Neighborhood to move in a repetitive and wob- 1978 by VCU faculty, including benches, building facades and two-night event. After countless Services: Isaac Tin Wei Lin, bly way by a wind-up mechanism current dean of the VCU School more in and around the VMFA. remarks about the disappoint- Barry McGee.” Before that, he or a crank. I thought we could of the Arts Joe Seipel. The fac- As a nonprofit art space, 1708 ment of missing InLight, 1708 was the senior curator of con- cause the movement to manipu- ulty was looking for a space to Gallery works to present contem- Gallery took on the challenge on temporary art at the National late shadows and or animate the show more experimental contem- porary art, with a particular fo- expanding its availability to more Gallery of Victoria (NGV), Mel- movement. porary art. The original gallery cus on emerging artists and and people. bourne, Australia, 2008-2012. was located at 1708 E. Main St. artists with innovative practices. “If there was ever going to Proposals from artists are split in Shockoe Bottom, and moved “The thing that distinguishes be an opportunity to have the to its current location in the RVA us from a commercial space is support and the structure to do it ADVERTISEMENT Arts District in 2001. we’re not set up to make money two nights, the (VMFA) would To celebrate the gallery’s 30th from selling artwork. We don’t be the place to do it,” Smith said. anniversary in 2007, the faculty plan shows that way,” said Emily “They have the capacity for audi- what’s happening wanted to do something new and Smith, the executive director of ences and the ability to make it Wednesday, Nov 25 6:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. program details, rates, and locations at recsports.vcu.edu Thursday, Nov 26 - Sat Nov 28 CLOSED Sunday, Nov 29 12:00 p.m.- 12:00 a.m. ARC First Aid/CPR/AED Thanksgiving hours full certification course [nov. 7, 9am – 3pm] Cary Street Gym MCV Campus Rec recertification course [wed, 11/25 6am – 4pm] [wed, 11/25 6am – 4pm] [nov. 10, 5 – 9pm] [thurs, 11/26 – sat, 11/28 Closed] [thurs, 11/26 – sat, 11/28 Closed] full certification course [sun, 11/29 12pm –12am] [sun, 11/29 12pm –10pm] [nov. 21, 9am – 3pm]

AFAA primary fitness trainer certification v4 [nov. 20 – 22]

day hike [sat, 11/14] bike tour [fri & sat, 11/14 – 15]

day cave [sun, 11/21]

/VCURecSports /recsportsvcu /VCURecSports /vcu_recsports PHOTOS COURTESY OF TERRY BROWN vcurecsports. wp.vcu.edu/ VCU RecSports /recsportsvcu Visitors participate in the Community Lantern Parade at last year’s InLight. Each year, InLight tumblr.com recsports/ ios/android app provides new opportunities for audience participation. 10 The Commonwealth Times spectrum Disney’s Midas touch isn’t lost on Newsies at the Altria

AUSTIN WALKER Daughter of Pulitzer and aspiring “Newsies” is almost bittersweet as Spectrum Editor journalist Katherine was played by you realize the show’s initial budget Morgan Keene, who despite seem- of $5 million was only made pos- The smash-hit musical “News- ing timid at points with her voice sible by buying up ownership for ies,” which depicts the story of and movement, managed to release countless show’s rights and charg- paper-boys in early 1900s New York, beautiful belts and proved to be quit ing immense fees for independent made its debut in Richmond at the convincing in her overwhelming performances. Altria Theater. With the splendor of romance for Jack Kelly. Still, “Newsies” accomplished a Disney theatrical production, the Kelly’s nurturing mother-figure musical was undoubtedly a success. Medda Larkin, played by Aisha The newsies Point to the quality of the actor’s De Haas, hits her notes with ease singing, the intricacy and fluidity of in “That’s Rich,” and serves as an make for an the set changes or the Tony-award- endearing interlude to the violence winning choreography and you’ll and noise of the first act. exceptional find few qualms that have a drastic Christopher Gattelli’s choreog- ensemble, with impact on the overall pleasure of the raphy that netted the musical a Tony show. award back in 2012, coupled with effortless aerials and Twenty-five-year-old Joey Bar- the highly mobile and grandiose layouts that kept the reiro makes for an excellent Jack stage, makes for a spectacle sure to Kelly, the smooth-talking unionizer excite, exemplified especially in “The energy high and made that stands up to the vicious media World Will Know” right before for smooth transitions mogul Joseph Pulitzer (played by intermission. seasoned actor Steve Blanchard). The newsies make for an ex- between scenes. While Barreiro’s dancing took a ceptional ensemble, with effortless backseat to the exceptional ensemble aerials and layouts that kept the at times, his voice and emotion energy high and made for smooth exactly what one would expect from didn’t leave a dry eye in the audience transitions between scenes. The tap a blockbuster Broadway tour: It during his dejected songs, namely number during “King of New York” was extravagant, filled with excep- “Santa Fe” and its reprise. lived up to expectations, and they tional dancing, excellent singing and Blanchard doesn’t do outstand- nailed the infamous dancing on the hair-raising set design, with a young ingly well singing “The Bottom newspapers scene from the movie. romance that’s nearly tragic made Line,” but his stage presence, in both The show’s message about bust- possible by performances by skilled his appearance and his voice, solidi- ing up big media in support of the actors. fies him as Pulitzer. His wife and little guys falls somewhat on deaf VCU students can purchase a assistants aren’t in any way distract- ears given Disney’s position as discounted ticket before the show’s ing and allow Blanchard to use his one of the world’s wealthiest and closure on Sunday, Nov. 8. boisterous voice to convince the widest-reaching media corporations. PHOTOS COURTESY OF DISNEY audience of just how evil he really is. The immense production quality of Members of the show’s ensemble dance to a live orchestra.

The cast of “Newsies” does a toe touch leap. The show won a Tony award in 2012 for its choreography, and the some of the original Broadway cast remained in the ensemble for this tour. ADVERTISEMENT www.commonwealthtimes.org Monday, November 9, 2015 11 Quote of the week Officers have the responsibility of treating all individuals, whether they are suspects, victims or passersby, with dignity “ and respect during incidents and investigations. opinion —COREY BYERS “ Better late than never

MONICA HOUSTON more to address the problems of behavior, more likely to be arrested, Opinion Editor mass incarceration, police brutality more likely to be charged, more and mandatory minimum sentences likely to be prosecuted aggressively, Throughout his presidency, for nonviolent offenders. Obama more likely to get a stiffer sentence.” the Black community has faulted has announced other initiatives to Bobby Reed, a first time of- President Barack Obama for his improve the rehabilitation and re- fender with a life sentence and no lack of involvement in the Black entry of former inmates into society, parole said in an interview with community. Dr. Cornel West said including education, housing grants, VICE, “Good people make bad Obama is “the first black president and partnerships that would provide decisions, but you shouldn’t be [to] become the first niggerized jobs and training in technology. punished for it for life.” black president … A niggerized During his trip to El Reno Fed- The government should not black person is a black person who eral Prison in Oklahoma in July, fault people for their mistakes so is afraid, and scared and intimidated Shane Smith, co-founder and CEO harshly. They are simply a product when it comes to putting a spotlight of VICE revealed the statistics of of their environment and when all on white supremacy and fighting how federal mandatory minimum they know is poverty and struggle, against white supremacy.” laws have disproportionately hurt it is incredibly easy to get caught This is an acceptable accusation poor and minority communities. up in the system. When the system as the surge of blacks being mur- One in three black men will spend is forcing you into a category, it is dered by law enforcement increases time in prison while only one in hard to escape. You need the op- and we continually see the system 17 white men will. Smith asked portunity to escape before you can

abusing its power and incarcerating Obama in the September interview, make a change. ILLLUSTRATION BY NORINE KING our men. In reality, however, most “is the criminal justice system in When someone becomes a federal decisions that hold police America racist?” convicted felon, the system denies ing system Obama said, “Let’s well. Years of their life get taken Obama’s “Ban the Box” is an ef- authority accountable aren’t solely In response, Obama discussed you a job, denies you money, and follow the growing number of away and they become even less of a fort to allow a conversation between made by the president; they must go the implications of a racist justice denies you food stamps, housing, our states, and cities, and private “human” in the eyes of society. employers and job seekers before through Congress first. With the system on society. “I think the education, and the right to vote. companies who’ve decided to ban I have witnessed the type of they disclose past history. It gives recent “Ban the Box” campaign, the criminal justice system interacts They deny you every opportunity to the box on job applications so that growth and change a person can them a chance to make an impres- black community should be thank- with broader patterns of society in a improve your life and make a change former prisoners who have done experience and it does not take sion before being judged for past ful for the president’s attempt to way that results in injustice and un- for yourself by punishing you for life their time and are now trying to five, ten, or a life sentence for a mistakes. Go to changeofcolor.org make a change during his last days fairness,” Obama said. “The system, whether behind bars or back on the get straight with society have a person to learn their lesson — es- to sign the petition to urge President in office. Better late than never. every study has shown, is biased streets. United States citizens do not decent shot in a job interview.” pecially for something as minor as Obama to implement a federal- Over the summer, Obama somewhere institutionally in such exist under “life, liberty and the pur- Without actions like this, the a nonviolent drug offense or theft. level reform for the criminal justice became the first sitting president to a way where an African-American suit of happiness.” That is a lie and cycle of stereotypes will continue. It takes one humbling moment to system without Congress. visit a federal prison to help bring youth is more likely to be suspended hypocritical. The system is designed When men are forced to spend years realize life is too precious to waste attention his prison reform agenda. from school than a white youth for for us to fail. behind bars it not only affects them, behind bars — especially when “Ban the Box” is a pledge to do engaging in the same disruptive In attempt to combat this fail- but their families and children as you have someone to live for. When is enough enough with Donald Trump? MIKAELA REINARD a series of photographs which de- words were left to resonate in the politicians should not cross. De- Contributing Columnist picted Jeb Bush and read “ADIOS, minds of the American people. cency is one of those lines.” JEB aka JOSÉ!” The photographs Some are in favor of Trumps Conservatives such as Erikson Donald Trump may be one of show Bush wearing a sombrero views, but more often than not, have been veering farther and far- the most outspoken candidates for while playing a guitar next to a most wish that he had not entered ther away from Trump’s candidacy the presidential elections thus far; cactus, a swastika, and photo- the presidential election. Trump ever since his obscene comments however, the words that come out shopped as Forrest Gump. has continually cut off people towards Kelly back in August. are derogatory and full of hate. Not a stranger to Twitter, speaking, calling them naïve or The fact of the matter is Trump He has stayed in the media and Trump also reheated a feud with telling them to not be naïve. He has done nothing but shine a continues to surge despite a large Megyn Kelly of Fox News. The has stated that “our country’s going negative light on himself by ver- sway of dismay towards him. I’ve morning of Nov. 4, he tweeted to hell.” bally attacking people and being had enough of Trump and I know “Isn’t it terrible that @megynkelly Trump claims that he’s con- a misogynistic, self-absorbed man many feel the same way towards use a poll not used before (I.B.D.) cerned about everything in terms of the “upper class” who ultimately the candidate. when I was down, but refuses to of the United States, but from cares about how much money is Trump is doing well in the use it now when I am up?” what he talks about, all he seems in his wallet. Albeit, countless polls because he has no ties to the In response, Megyn Kelly concerned with is spitting rude amounts people continue to follow current political system. Like Ben tweeted “@realDonaldTrump — remarks towards women, the him and believe his views are what Carson, with his medical back- Facts matter.” Kelly also re- Hispanic population in the United America is. I strongly believe in ground, this lack of prior involve- sponded to the obscene comments States, and anyone else that veers the notion “to each their own,” but ment in politics brings comfort for directed towards her after she away from his picture-perfect view I also believe that every person in people seeking change. For those questioned Trump about his treat- of his utopic American society. the United States deserves to be who support Trump, they see ment toward women by stating, “I have tried to give a great deal equally cared for and should have someone with no connection to the “Trump will not apologize, and of latitude to Donald Trump in his a president who cares for them current issues they are frustrated I certainly will not apologize for for the presidency,” said Erick Er- just as much as they care for their with, allowing him to look like the doing good journalism.” ickson, editor-in-chief of RedState. country. This country would be best option possible. Trump is also known for his org and past political contributor nothing without the people who

ILLUSTRATION BY WILL SULLIVAN WILL BY ILLUSTRATION During his most recent act via past statements in various debates for CNN. “But there are even lines embody it, most of whom are im- Twitter on Nov. 3, he retweeted where his hurtful, derogatory blunt talkers and unprofessional migrants. VCU PD Column: Police Training COREY BYERS implicit (feelings or snap judge- Law enforcement agencies incident by an officer. Public Information Officer, VCUPD ments lingering below a persons’ usually offer this type of training Visitors can also review a consciousness). after an alleged bias-based incident breakdown of the demograph- How police officers treat a person Biases about how people look, occurs. However, it can also be of- ics of sworn officers, review a during traffic stops, arrests, pursuits what they’re wearing or how they fered without an incident to prompt copy of the department’s annual and other interactions has been act can lead to a misinterpretation it. For VCU, it’s the latter. biased based policing review and an issue that’s dominated national of an individual’s intentions. Lasz- Since 2010, when Venuti be- access numerous department headlines. At Virginia Common- lo’s goal for VCU PD officers was came chief, the department has had policies. wealth University, police officers to have them recognize when bias dramatic decreases in the number Venuti has a theory about and police administrators are keenly is kicking in and to override it with of complaints against officers, use the future of American polic- aware that community members controlled behavioral responses. of force by officers and a decrease in ing: Departments will have to have concerns about how they Laszlo’s training uses a well- bias-based complaints. He consid- track operations by collecting personally will be treated by law en- known, pop culture example ers these stats as positive indicators accurate data on themselves and forcement, should they be stopped. of how biases can be extremely of an overall organizational change. use the information as perfor- Officers have the responsibility misleading. A YouTube clip Relationships between police mance indicators. Law enforce- of treating all individuals, whether from 2009 shows the introduc- departments and communities ment agencies can no longer tell they are suspects, victims or pass- tion and performance of Susan are under a microscope and a na- communities what they’re doing ersby, with dignity and respect dur- Boyle on the television show tional movement is underway to — they need to tell people what ing incidents and investigations. “Britain’s Got Talent.” make agencies more transparent. they’re doing and prove it with Recently all 92 VCU Police offi- Boyle is judged on her looks and VCU Police is actively a part of valid, accurate data. cers completed a course on fair and how she speaks; she’s clearly not that movement and, in addition The chief has made it a cul- impartial policing. This is distinctly taken seriously by the audience or to training, is looking at broader tural expectation within VCU different from diversity training judges. However, when she starts ways to serve VCU in the best Police to rely on data. Here are a because participants learn that ev- singing opera, everyone’s reactions ways possible. few examples: eryone, no matter who they are, has reverse. One judge later admits Earlier this year, President A few years ago VCU PD biases. Taught by instructors with to being cynical upon first seeing Barack Obama issued a task force initiated a bi-annual perception tinely reviewed by supervisors and ship between the individuals who Fair & Impartial Policing LLC, Boyle; another calls Boyle’s perfor- report on 21st Century Policing. of safety survey for VCU stu- officers are given feedback on their serve as officers and the individuals officers learned how to recognize mance “stunning.” VCU Police is implementing ideas dents, faculty and staff. The latest job performance. who make up VCU and the sur- human biases, how biases affect The message Laszlo’s in train- from the president’s report into results show that more than 96 The department routinely rounding communities. behavior and how biased policing ing for officers? “Beware: gut actionable items for the academic percent of respondents feel “safe” receives requests for crime stats, Through training, partnerships negatively impacts a department reactions might be based on your year and beyond. or “very safe” on VCU’s campuses. not only from the media, but from and developing best practices for and the community. biases.”The fair and impartial Boosting the department’s web- Feedback is used to deploy patrol student journalists and researchers. community policing, the VCU According to Anna Laszlo, police course also drove home a site (police.vcu.edu) has been one officers to where respondents feel Crime stats are reviewed by the Police Department wants to make the chief operating officer of the key point for VCU Police, one of the ways VCU Police is mak- less safe and to plan for outreach chief and his executive staff every sure every interaction with an company, bias is a normal hu- that Chief John Venuti feels very ing task force recommendations a programs and operations in the week to determine the best ways to individual is fair, impartial and man attribute. Her research-based strongly about: procedural justice reality. The main page on the site months ahead. deter and prevent crime and how positive. Ideas from our students, training explores how some biases and the fair treatment of every has quick links for visitors to make People who have contact with to help community members boost faculty, staff and neighbors are are explicit (openly expressed by person leads to police legitimacy – a suggestion or complaint, report officers receive surveys on their their personal safety. always welcome. an individual) while others are the core of community trust. hate crimes and report a bias based experience; the feedback is rou- Policing is a two-way relation- 12 The Commonwealthcomics Times The History of Modern Cheating by Gareth Bentall

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