Digital Commons @ Longwood University - Longwood University - Feb 10, 2020
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Longwood University Digital Commons @ Longwood University Rotunda Library, Special Collections, and Archives 2-10-2020 Rotunda - Vol 98, no. 15 - Feb 10, 2020 Longwood University Follow this and additional works at: https://digitalcommons.longwood.edu/rotunda Recommended Citation Longwood University, "Rotunda - Vol 98, no. 15 - Feb 10, 2020" (2020). Rotunda. 2249. https://digitalcommons.longwood.edu/rotunda/2249 This Article is brought to you for free and open access by the Library, Special Collections, and Archives at Digital Commons @ Longwood University. It has been accepted for inclusion in Rotunda by an authorized administrator of Digital Commons @ Longwood University. For more information, please contact hamiltonma@longwood.edu, alwinehd@longwood.edu.
The
ROTUNDA Flooding commuter lots since 1920
WINDING UP
FOR THE WIN
OPINIONS PAGE 5
The power and pain behind
the “forbidden word”
A&E PAGE 9
DC’s “Birds of Prey”
takes flight
SPORTS PAGE 11
Baseball looks to climb FEBRUARY 10, 2020
back to BSC tourney VOL 98. ISSUE 15
SHANNON HENSHAW | THE ROTUNDA
02 NEWS TheRotundaOnline.com
In SGA
EDITORIAL BOARD 2020
R.R. Moton Museum
TJ WENGERT
editor-in-chief visit, inclusivity
ANGELI LEONG
managing editor discussion
by Allison Turner | Assistant News Editor | @allisonkturner
JEFF HALLIDAY, CLINT WRIGHT, ASHLEY
JONES & DR. ALEC HOSTERMAN
organizational advisers
NEWS ROTUNDA STUDIOS
ALLISON TURNER ELLIE STUCK
assistant editor staff
ADDIE CLARKE
staff
A&E SUTTON REEKES
JACOB DILANDRO
staff
editor
LIAM WELLS
LEDANIEL JACKSON
staff
staff
JENN HALL
RYAN CROW
staff
staff
NICK LIONE
SAVANNA MAKINS
staff JESSIC A BOGGS | THE ROTUNDA
staff
AIYSHANTI GREEN
staff
OPINIONS DYLAN MCKERCHER Quincy Goodine leading the conversation about virtues present in
TAIYA JARRETT staff our identities.
assistant editor
LAYOUT
I
DAVINA APPLEWHITE n this week ’s Student values of everyone on senate
staff LAUREN QUEZADA
social media staff assistant editor
Government Association and SGA as a whole.
MASON VEST (SGA) meeting, the To do this, the senate
staff
SPORTS MELANIE LEWIS
Senate visited the R.R. Moton completed a “values sheet”
KURT MARTIN
editor
staff Museum and had a discussion where they were given a list of
editor-in-chief pro-tempore on the ‘art of inclusion’. values and they had to circle all
PATRICK SANDERSON PHOTO In lieu of an actual Senate that were important to them,
staff TAYLOR O’BERRY
NICK ROBINSON editor meeting, the Senate was able then they had to narrow it
staff JACOB PUTERKO
staff
to go to the museum, which is down to ten, then five that they
EVENTS CARRIE BAILEY located at 900 Griffin Boulevard value the most. After this, they
staff
RENEE COTTON
KC MCALLISTER
in town. Executive Senator discussed their similarities and
coordinator
staff for Committee Relations Sky differences and how they can
JESSICA PAQUETTE Sweeney organized the event. use them as a senate moving
FEATURES staff
VICTORIA THOMPSON SHANNON HENSHAW The Senate started off with a forwards.
staff staff guided tour of the museum from Page said to senate, “You all
JESSICA BOGGS
SOCIAL MEDIA staff Leah Brown, assistant director are the campus’ voice. You are
MIRANDA FARLEY AMBER SYKES of education. They were taken the voice of often times the
editor staff
TAYLOR JENNINGS through each room and were marginalized voices, as well as
assistant editor given a brief background on the voices of the boisterous and
BUSINESS the history of the museum and loud voices.”
IRIS HAMMOND education in Prince Edward Page and Goodine went on
manager County. They were welcome to to hold a discussion on how
ask questions and fully engage to be more inclusive not only
in the topic. as a senate body, but also as a
Afterwards, the Senate went campus as a whole. The senate
FOLLOW US @longwood.rotunda back into the main area where was invited to share opinions in
ON SOCIAL @longwoodrotunda they were greeted by Jonathan an open, safe space.
MEDIA @rotundaphotos Page, director of multicultural The next SGA meeting will
& SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER
affairs at Longwood, and
Quincy Goodine, assistant
d i r e c tor of l e a d e r s h ip
development. They began a
take place on Tuesday, Feb. 11
at 3:45 p.m. inside of the Wilson
Chamber
at the Upchurch University
http://tiny.cc/longwoodrotundaonline
discussion surrounding the Center.
FEB. 10, 2020 FEATURES 03
The Civil War
seminar returnsofficials, SGA spirit night
to Longwood
by Valerie Mitchell | News Staff | @longwoodrotunda
W
ith seminar a variety of this seminar. She
interesting speakers to a t t e n d e d t h i s
talk about various Civil seminar because
War topics, the 21st annual free Civil she enjoys reading
War Seminar was held at Longwood a n d i s v e r y
University’s Jarman Auditorium. interested in the C O U R T E S Y O F J O N AT H A N W H I T E .O R G
One of those speakers was Dr. Jonathan Civil War. Her
W. White, a professor of American favorite section was
Studies at Christopher Newport White’s, “because Appomattox Courthouse Historical
University. to me it connects us today, who have the Park, Eastern National Bookstore,
This was his first time attending this same dreams when we are separated from The Department of History, Political
seminar, he spoke about the dreams our loved ones.” Science & Philosophy, and the Center
that people who fought in the civil war Each speaker talked about a different for Southside Virginia History were the
had while away from their friends and aspect of the Civil War and why this sponsors for this event.
family. “Most people don't think about was an important topic to understand The Civil War Seminar is held every year
this aspect of the Civil War and I think it and realize. Some other topics spoken the first week in February at Longwood
humanizes the people of that generation about were the prisons during the Civil University in the Jarman Auditorium.
in a way that other things don’t,” said War, Lincoln’s decision in winning the
presentations
White. throughout February on every SGA position
war, and for the Civil War Records and
any interested students to attend.
Diane Lanieve was an attendee at Treasures.
FRONT
The
ROTUNDA Keeping our heads above water since 1920
ROTUNDA Expanding our knowledge since 1920
A WHIMSICAL
PERFORMANCE
TS: Jeremy
Jacquier brings national
experience to LU
NEWS: Hurricane
FIND YOUR VOICE. PAGE 3
NEWS: White
nationalist postings
resurface on campus
PAGE 5
A&E Review: Snowy
kid’s flick tackles
GAINING
RECOGNITION
TELL THEIR STORIES.
Michael touches societal truths & Yetis
PAGE 6
OPINIONS: New
A&E Review: Myer’s obelisk in right
40 year follow up is a direction but
OCTOBER 22, 2018 OCTOBER 1, 2018
VOL 97. ISSUE 8 could improve VOL 97. ISSUE 6
The
The
ROTUNDA
Join The Rotunda on Mondays atrespecting ROTUN Running out of bonus dollars since 1920
Congress shall make no law
an establishment of religion, or pro-
5:30 pm in Upchurchhibiting
204 the free exercise thereof;
or abridging the freedom of
speech, or of the press; or
the right of the people
for more information, email rotundaeditor@gmail.com
peaceably to assemble,
and to petition the
Government for a
redress of
grievances. FREEDOM
OF SPEECH
University’s bias reporting LEA
system suspended due to
First Amendment concern Dr
NOV. 27, 2017
VOL 96. ISSUE 12
GR APHIC BY L AUR A GOTTSCHALK
M AT T A L E X A N D E R | T H E R O T U N D A (F I L E)
04 FEATURES TheRotundaOnline.com
K AY L A PI T TM A N | CO N T R I B U T E R
Women and Gender
Studies Question
Feminism Traditions in
“The Tempest”
by Victoria Thompson | Features Staff | @longwoodrotunda
Jesse Goldberg gives commentary on Shakespeare’s "The Tempest" focusing on traditions and articulations of feminism.
N
owadays, the roles that women a bibliography with books and articles on Kimberlé Crenshaw coining
play have a huge effect on how about topics related to those discussed the term "intersectionality", which
the whole world continues to in his speech. means thinking of human differences
spin on and on. There are even full- While he admitted to not being simultaneously impacted by positions
fledged groups of activists that choose to a Shakespeare scholar specifically, of power in society.
speak out about issues involving gender, Goldberg’s solid interest in the He also made the comparison of
race, sexuality and varying combinations interpretation of the female characters how teachers are their own versions of
of the three. in “The Tempest” primarily fueled his Prospero in terms of having a sense of
On Wednesday, February 5, the discussion. control over what their students learn,
Women Gender and Sexuality Studies After summarizing the play’s plot, and he prides himself on teaching
Department hosted a discussion Goldberg noticed how Miranda’s speech people to unlearn things like oppression
regarding the question of feminism in has often been taken and given to and instead encourages for people to
Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” in the Prospero by directors. He also noticed imagine a world without violence and
Upchurch University Center's Wilson how students connected empowerment the colonization of oppression.
Chamber. This talk was the first of the to Miranda’s speech since there is an Overall, this presentation offered
Women Gender and Sexuality Studies elevation of a female voice that appears commentary on William Shakespeare's
Speaker Series for the Spring 2020 to be an empowering moment. "The Tempest" in order to introduce
semester. However, Goldberg points out that attendees to traditions and articulations
Women Gender and Sexuality Studies this moment would make Miranda a of feminism which do not hold equality
is a Minor at Longwood University that colonizer like her father Prospero since as the absolute mindset for thinking
mainly focuses on women’s issues in she also bashed Caliban due to race about gender, but as one of the many
society that are affected by a multitude and how Sycorax (Caliban’s mother) is factors that need to be considered for it.
of factors such as race, class, ethnicity, detested for her race and magical ability Kravetz further said, “Jesse is clearly
age and sexuality. while Prospero’s character is not, adding engaged with black abolitionist
Melissa Kravetz, the co-director of diversity only to the oppressors. feminism; I think the talk was less about
Women Gender and Sexuality Studies Goldberg analyzes colonization in 'The Tempest' than it was on black
commented, “We usually do [the the play through a black abolitionist abolitionist feminism. He even calls it a
discussions] five times a year, two talks feminist lens, meaning it is a form of radical view, and I don’t see that much
in the fall and three in the spring, but feminism that thinks beyond equality on campus at all."
we are doing six this year. They always between men and women and pushes She continued, "It’s refreshing to see
happen on the first Wednesday of the further conversation about justice for someone who is a true activist through
month.” race as well as gender. his teaching and this discussion, but
Jesse Goldberg, a visiting assistant The subject matter of this discussion he’s mostly looking at 'The Tempest'
professor of the English & Modern was layered with an honest look at the through the lens of black abolitionist
Languages Department, served as often ignored brutality that people from feminism. I found it as a very refreshing
the event speaker, giving a discussion different cultures experience. Kravetz stance that I feel that is kind of lacking;
titled “What about Sycorax? Gender, also mentioned, “I think honestly an race ethnicity is totally lacking on this
Violence, and Justice in Shakespeare's exposure to discussion of Women campus. We are activists through our
“The Tempest”. Gender and Sexuality Studies isn’t teaching.”
Before the discussion began, Goldberg something students are getting in their Melissa Kravetz will be speaking
gave everyone in attendance a handout everyday classes. I don’t think students about Women’s Health in Germany at
with Miranda’s ‘Abhorred Slave’ speech are exposed unless they’re in a club, or the second Wednesdays with Women,
from Act 1 Scene 2 of the play. In they seek it out.” Gender, and Sexuality Studies event on
addition, the back of the handout had At one point, Goldberg elaborated March 11.
FEB. 10, 2020 OPINIONS 05
The Forbidden Word
by Davina Applewhite | Opinions Staff | @longwoodrotunda
Editor's note: The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.
B
lack History Month aims to we must first understand it’s historical a more colloquial “-a.”
remember and celebrate the origin. And because it was once used to belittle
history of the African Americans Linguistically, the n-word can be them, African-Americans flipped the
who fought to create and maintain the traced all the way back to the Latin script and now use this word to more
rights we have today. word “niger” meaning “black.” Used commonly refer to each other in a more
Arguably, we are still creating history in languages like French, Spanish and friendly manner––the key phrase here
through actions like #BlackLivesMatter Portuguese, the word soon made an is “each other” as a term of endearment.
or Colin Kaepernick kneeling during appearance in the United States, in the What’s important for people to
the National Anthem in protest to early nineteenth century, according to understand is this word still holds a
police brutality. These are forms of civil The Public Broadcasting Service (PBS). lot of weight when it leaves the lips of
disobedience, which once played a huge During a time in the United States someone who is not black.
role in the Civil Rights Movement that where slaves were owned, the n-word Though African-Americans may use
took place across America. was added at the beginning of a slave’s it in a more positive way, we currently
Because of this pivotal movement, we name in order to distinguish between still see the n-word being used in a
no longer deal with a plethora of issues them and their white counterpart with demeaning manner by people of other
that were once a part of America’s racist the same moniker. races.
past. For example, there are no longer Once slaves were emancipated and In the past decade, many celebrities
segregated public areas designed to keep began seeking their rights as citizens, have been exposed for using it, whether
colored and white people separate. the n-word became a more derogatory it be socially or maliciously. Camilla
But while we may have battled term, used to insult rather than indicate Cabello, Charlie Sheen, Jeffree Star and
segregation with integration and distinction. More critically, the word Madonna are among a few of the stars
reforms have been put in place to ensure was used to enforce and maintain a who’ve been called out for this.
African Americans are treated equally, harmful power dynamic that kept white With the current racial tensions that
other offenses are harder to regulate and individuals in control. This term evolved have arisen in America in the last few
completely abolish. even after slaves were given freedom and years, it’s essential that when we see
One, in particular, is the use (and used to keep African-Americans from the n-word being used, we address and
misuse) of the n-word. having the same opportunities as their advise the speaker of the power and pain
This forbidden word has started white counterparts. the word possesses.
controversies, ruined careers and Famed African-American poet, The insulting and oppressive racial
continues to be a topic of debate. Langston Hughes has even said that undertones that lay hidden in the word
A major discussion that has arisen in the word “sums up for us colored all are very much brought to light when
the past is whether or not non-black the bitter years of insult and struggle in spoken by a non-black individual.
individuals are permitted to say the America.” Bottom line, no matter the context, it
n-word. In essence, it is a term that encompasses shouldn’t be said by someone who is not
Though there is no true consensus, the overall institutionalized and particularly African-American.
according to YouGov, the majority rule systematic racism of the past and the Whether it be used lightheartedly, as
that many find the n-word offensive and discrimination and oppression that a “joke” or even when singing along to
believe it should not be spoken by other many still face today. a song, the n-word is still very much
races. So why use it at all, you might ask? seen as a racial slur when used by non-
There are a few reasons why people Plain and simple, the n-word has black people and if we don’t hold them
believe that this word should be been reclaimed. This word that once accountable for saying the n-word, the
exclusively used by black individuals, embodied discrimination and white dark history of it will continue to live
but in order to truly understand the supremacy has evolved to African- on.
oppressive weight the n-word holds, Americans, by replacing the “-er” with
06 OPINIONS TheRotundaOnline.com
A
dvancing their oral and who work with a student journalist. where the decision for free speech is up
communicative skills through While the bills are designed to for debate, so are their words.
accurate reporting at the override and essentially reverse the “Far too many student journalists
expense of getting their foot into the effects of an outdated Supreme Court have been censored by image-
industry of news and media on college ruling, this has also created a start of a conscious school administrators or
campuses, student journalists are historic moment as amongst Virginia, intimidated to self-censor or not report
having a ten-letter word dictate their 14 other states have enacted bills to on ‘controversial’ topics that matter
protection in the House. protect the free speech of student to their peers and communities. It is
Free Speech. journalists. important that we stand up nationally
Now you’re probably wondering as to Yet, as this becomes an ongoing topic to say, “No more!,” said Student Press
why this topic is even being discussed, of conversation for Virginia House Law Center Executive Director Hadar
and quite frankly as am I. Student lawmakers, this is a pivotal point in Harris via SPLC.org.
journalists are expected to inform and history for student journalists
even entertain the campus community
through accurate and credible
COURTES
information, in efforts to fulfill the Y OF LIB
E R T Y. E D
U
unsolicited position as the backbone
of a university. Yet their objective as
the writer, to chase and report stories,
seemingly have been met with the
censorship and opposition, until now.
Recently celebrating Student Press
Freedom Day on Jan. 29 on behalf
of the Student Press Law Center to Virginia B
commemorate the 1988 Supreme
Court historic decision of university ill strikes
censorship of student journalists’ case, in corresp
Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier. ondence
Unequivocally silencing the works
and words of student journalists, with Stud
according to the Foundation for ent
Individual Rights in Education,
Journalist
otherwise posed as acronym FIRE,
“The Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier allowed
school administrators to censor school-
by Taiya Ja s
rrett | Assis
tant Opini
ons Editor
| @ohsooo
tay
sponsored publications if they had
“legitimate pedagogical reasons” for
doing so.
And while Hazelwood was decided
in the K-12 context, the U.S. Court of
Appeals for the Seventh Circuit applied
the same rationale to college campuses,
permitting censorship in that context
as well.”
Reverting that action, contrary
just this past month Virginia House
lawmakers decided to take a stance
in the right direction by proposing
a bill that would extend free speech
protections to student journalists.
Under the disguise of the House
Bill 36 and Senate Bill 80, these bills
were initiated by Democrat Virginia
House of Delegate member, Chris
Hurst (HB 36) and Danica Roem (SB
80). With a 5-3 vote, FIRE reported,
“The bills would ensure that school-
sponsored media — defined as “any
material that is prepared, substantially
written, published, or broadcast by a
student journalist” at a public middle
school, high schools, and universities Editor's note:
The opinion
— do not face school censorship.” In commenta s exp
addition, the bills also protect advisers
r y a r e solely those ressed in this
of the author.
FEB. 10, 2020 A&E 07
Celebrating Black History Month
by Savanna Makins | A&E Staff | @longwoodrotunda
T
hroughout the year, there are working with newly freed slaves and natural-born leader and, of course,
many things we celebrate: even began work with the elderly. he still holds a high influence in our
President’s Day, Halloween, Harriet Tubman suffered many injuries society today as many people still thank
Thanksgiving, the New Year, and many in her early childhood, but it just shows him for his work today.
more. However, there are times when her powerful background and shows her Now, we are still constantly changing
we celebrate different kinds of events rightful of being a leader. Tubman was today, and we still have high influences
such as Black History Month. As even buried with military honor due to in our modern society that help us
many people are aware, Black History all her bravery in her service with the with that movement such as Thurgood
Month runs throughout February. Underground Railroad and the Union Marshall. For those who aren’t
Famous people are recognized during Army. Tubman is still considered one completely aware, Thurgood Marshall
this month such as Harriet Tubman, of the most influential women of all was the first African-American Justice
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and more time and is still a major leader in our to serve in the Supreme Court. Born on
modern people such as Thurgood society today. July 2nd, 1908, he became a Justice in
Marshall. Today, we recognize many of Moving forward about one-hundred 1967 and served until 1991. He went
these people as leaders and role models years to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to Harvard University to get a degree
in our society and this article will go Everyone was taught about him in in Law. Marshall passed away from
into the three previously listed people school and he’s known for his famous Congestive Heart Failure in 1993.
and recognize their great service to quote and speech, “I have a dream!” Now being a justice, this makes him
America! Dr. King was a famous activist who an obvious choice for great leadership
Our first topic is about Harriet also followed the rules of a pacifist, material, but he also came to be a major
Tubman. Harriet Tubman was born in meaning he created no violence but influence for children, showing them
1820 into slavery in Maryland. Tubman protested peacefully. Born in 1929 that they can do anything.
escaped to go to the North when she in Atlanta, Georgia, he led the most So many great leaders have popped
was only twenty-nine-years-old, and in powerful movement of his time, The up in great moments of history. As
return, helped hundreds of families in Civil Rights Movement from 1955 until we go through this month, let us not
slavery escape to the North. Tubman his assassination in 1968. Dr. King was forget those who have worked hard to
is also known for her work as a spy for very passionate about creating a world change our society to make it the way it
the Union Army to gather information that was equal for all and his wish came is today. We must try to keep those in
from the Confederate Army. Even after true. Dr. King was a mind, not just at this time of year, but
the Civil War, Harriet Tubman all year round.
didn’t stop
COURTESY OF NEWS
JOURNAL
COURTESY OF DISCOVERLOSANGELES
C O U R T E S Y O F B A LT I M O R E M A G A Z I N E .
08 A&E TheRotundaOnline.com
ALBUM REVIEW
Lil Wayne digs
his own grave
with "Funeral"
by LeDaniel Jackson | A&E Staff | @xidjoker500
P H OTO C O U R T E S Y O F YO U N G M O N E Y E N T E R TA I N M E N T
AND REPUBLIC RECORDS
L
il Wayne has been in the rap there aren’t a lot of good performances The performances are also subpar as the
game for years under the Young here. chemistry between Wayne and Adam
Money recording label. His rise “Mama Mia” begins with one of the Lavine sounds forced.
in fame is a great story as he was once most annoying beats on the album. “Get Outta My Head” features
considered to be one of the greatest The beat starts well but the impact of deceased rapper XXXTENTACION
rappers of all time. However, for the it diminishes over time. Wayne repeats and they talk about dealing with
past couple of years, Wayne has released a similar topic as he discusses his negative thoughts in their head. It’s
an abundance of subpar to bad music. riches and his lavish activities. Wayne not good with X and Wayne screaming
He eventually began to gain some again delivers a nice performance with over the lackluster production. While
of his fans back with his features on versatile flow, however the beat does the topic is interesting the song does
songs with Tyler the Creator and make the song hard to get through. not do a good job of expressing that.
A$ap Rocky. Then he released "The “Bing James” is one of the best songs Instead, it’s just a song where Wayne
Carter V” which, despite being highly on the album with Wayne and Jay seems lost.
anticipated, received mixed reviews. Rock comparing their status to Lebron “T.O” talks about how Wayne and
Now he releases “Funeral” which James. The production provides a O.T Genasis use to sell cocaine. Wayne
if you turn the album cover upside decent trap with the two artists flowing has a decent performance by providing
down it spells Lil Wayne. The title well. Jay Rock is the standout with his some funny lyrics while matching the
song “Funeral” starts the album with a aggressive delivery and versatile flow. energy of the song. O.T Genasis, on
beautiful instrumental which includes Wayne delivers a subpar at best chorus the other hand, is subpar with a verse
some bass guitar and piano. The beat since he sounds uninspired while that doesn’t add anything to the song.
switches to a normal trap where Wayne performing it. His simple flow brings the song down a
delivers some witty lyrics. His flow is “Trust Nobody” couple of notches.
decent at best, however he does match discusses how Overall “Funeral” is a disappointing
the energy of the song. “Funeral” is a Adam Levine album from Lil Wayne especially with
decent opening track and it sets the and Wayne deal some of the features and production
tone for the rest of the album. with pressure. choices. The duration also did not help
“Mahogany” introduces a mellow The production as it is hard to get through 24 songs.
trap beat with Wayne discussing is subpar with However, Wayne does have some good
his lavish lifestyle by mentioning a mixture moments lyrically and vocally. He
Louis’ bags and even visiting the of pop and just needs to become a featured artist
Mahogany Bay. Wayne flows hip-hop, and because this album needs to be put in
well with the beat while neither a grave.
delivering some clever meshes
lyrics. “Mahogany” is
one best performances
by Wayne on the
well.
AAA2.5/5
album, which isn’t
saying much since
PH OTO CO URTE S Y O F H Y PE M AG A ZI N E.CO.Z A
FEB. 10, 2020 A&E 09
feeling a bit uneven, but the understandable, but it’s the clear
THE REEL LIFE
Movie reviews by Jacob DiLandro | A&E Editor | @spongejay1
rest of the cast still holds their personality that immediately sets
own. Jurnee Smollett-Bell the film apart from those. Often
(“Friday Night Lights,” “The times, the audience is cut out of
Great Debaters”) as the killer an important conversation because
voiced Black Canary has the Harley was cut out of it or just wasn’t
most equal arc and screen- paying attention. It works because the
time compared to Harley. entire project is so clearly wrapped
Her performance is also just around her own psyche and perspective
as varied as Robbie’s and the on these events.
pair really go there with their One could argue that the film’s
arcs. heavy subjects, such as empowerment,
Meanwhi le El la Jay police corruption, the male gaze, toxic
Basco, in her film debut, as relationships and more, require a more
Cassandra Cain, and Mary respectful hand, but given the kind of
Elizabeth Winstead (“Scott film that this is, there’s something to be
Pilgrim vs. The World,” said for purposefully going over the top
“10 Cloverfield Lane”) as to make a point. While it might not be
Huntress end up playing to everyone’s taste, this state of silliness
more comedic versions of their is consistent throughout the entire film,
comic counterparts. They’re still plenty never flinching or falling prey to tonal
fun, but they never seem to be taken shifts or imbalances.
that seriously. The same goes for Ewan The action scenes keep the bizarro
McGregor (“Moulin Rouge!” “Star absurdity, with the camera f loating
Wars: Revenge of the Sith”) as Black through car chases and fun houses with
Mask and Chris Messina (“Argo,” the same ease. Blood spews for every
“The Mindy Project”) as Victor Zsasz. goon Harley whacks with her over-sized
he’s definitely got moxxi. That’s one While both are menacing in individual hammer while gracefully gliding around
S thing nobody will argue against moments, their best bits are their on her roller skates, and as she beams,
when it comes to Dr. Harlene fantastic comedic chemistry, putting a it becomes clear exactly what kind of
Quinnzel, aka Harley Quinn, the kooky thick layer of homoerotic cheese over film this is.
ex-girlfriend of the Joker and general their crime sprees. It’s the antithesis of every superhero
hell raiser in her own right. Despite If anyone gets the short end of the film of the past decade. Part "Deadpool,"
appearing like a lost puppy looking stick, its Rosie Perez’s (“Fearless,” part "Pulp Fiction," with enough
for the Joker in the celluloid turd that “Pineapple Express”) Officer Montoya. blood and foul language spewing from
was “Suicide Squad,” the past decade of Not only is she handed the most cliched every orifice to make both of those
comics, television and animated films and underdeveloped part of the script, films proud, it feels like it should be
have been spent establishing Harley she’s also playing this officer incredibly derivative. However, it’s the strong
as a force all by herself. Thankfully, ham-fistedly. Not that she doesn’t get chemistry and commitment to the
“Birds of Prey” continues the streak DC some moments to shine, she’s great in absurd point of view of this killer clown
started with “Shazam!” by providing a the first act playing straight to Gotham’s queen that makes this flock soar higher
delightfully zany and scatterbrained overblown shenanigans. She’s just the than its so-so character development
anti-hero adventure. weakest link in this flock. should have allowed.
Thankfully, it almost doesn’t matter if
Margot Robbie (“The Wolf of Wall
Street,” “I, Tonya”), who’s also a there even is a weakest link,
5
producer on the film, clearly loves because director Cathy Yan
Harley. Her performance here is leagues (“Dead Pigs”), screenwriter
above “Suicide Squad.” She cracks wise C h r i s t i n a Hodson
to the camera, flips the narrative around (“Bumblebee (2018)”) and
when it suits her and constantly narrates cinematographer Matthew
scribbles and words across the screen. Libatique (“Requiem for
She’s a delight for every moment she’s a Dream,” “Black Swan”)
on screen and her arc is quite impressive. ground the f ilm in a
Themes of “working together” come sense of pure camp
full circle by the time the rest of the and absurdity. The film
team shows up, and Harley has made is constantly f lying back
legitimate changes and it leads into the and forth between Harley’s
film’s most action-packed act yet with narration, fantasy sequences
strong narrative grounding. and the supposed reality of the
Not everyone gets as much time film. It lends everything a very
devoted to them, however. Despite the surreal feeling.
title being “Birds of Prey,” it’s basically Similarities to films
Harley’s story. That does leave the film like “Deadpool” and P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F D C F I L M S , L U C K Y C H A P E N T E R T A I N M E N T , K R O L L & C O .
“Pulp Fiction” are E N T E R T A I N M E N T , C L U B H O U S E P I C T U R E S , A N D W A R N E R B R O S . P I C T U R E S10 SPORTS TheRotundaOnline.com
KC MC ALLISTER| THE ROTUNDA
Longwood attacker, Kaitlin Luccarelli, slows down an oncoming offensive run in Sunday's game versus the University of Richmond Spiders.
Women’s Lacrosse has sights set on
Big South Championship in 2020
by Nick Robinson | Sports Staff | @longwoodrotunda
T
he women’s lacrosse team is attacker Kaitlyn Luccarrelli, senior goals per game given up, compared to
coming off of a 2019 season defensive player Corri Calandra and the average of 11.41 goals scored per
where they dominated in sophomore attacker Nicole Fordyce, game. Jones remains optimistic that
conference play, going 5-1 in the Big who were all given Preseason All-Big the team can change those numbers
South and winning their final five South honors. for the better this season. “I think it’s
regular season games before losing to Jones spoke on the impact that these just another year older and another
Winthrop by a score of 12-9 in the Big three women make to on the team. “I year wiser for our team. We have eight
South Tournament semifinals. expect big things from them. Kaitlyn seniors and they’re very well-seasoned.
Head coach Elaine Jones laid out and Corri are both seniors so they’re We’re looking for them to lead the way.
her expectations for the 2020 season. very driven on ending on a high note. Some of them can score goals, some
“We always expect to finish first in All three are very capable players. We of them can hold off goals and hold it
conference. We got a taste of getting have Kaitlyn and Nikki (Fordyce) down on defense. I think they’re up for
to the conference tournament last year bringing it on offense and Corri holding the challenge.”
and we were a little let down because we it down on defense so we’re set.” First up for the Lancers in 2020 is the
were not able to perform better. Getting Jones also made sure to mention other Richmond Spiders, a team that won
to the finals is a long-term goal.” players that Lancer fans should be on the Atlantic 10 conference last year en
Jones added that she wants the team the lookout for this season. “On the route to an NCAA tournament bid.
to be better in non-conference play this defensive end, Olivia Zubillaga helps Jones broke down what it would take
season because she believes that they Corri anchor that defense. We’re also for her team to win. “Starting off the
started off slow and let a few games get exited for the return of Molly Barkman, season with a win would be great. They
away from them. The team was 3-7 in who was out last year with an injury. are challenging, but we want to focus on
non-conference play in 2019 and Jones Dana Joss is always a threat. Our us and the things that we do well. We
believes that they can improve that in newcomers are still coming along but don’t want to ride on what they did last
2020. we’re excited about them.” year or what we did last year. It’s a 0-0
The team returns a majority of its A stat that did not work in the team’s game to start and we just have to put
starters this season, including senior favor last season was the average of 12.82 our best foot forward.”FEB. 10, 2020 SPORTS 11
Baseball looks to overcome doubters,
return to BSC tourney
by Kurt Martin | Sports Editor | @IamKurt14
SHANNON HENSHAW | THE ROTUNDA
Longwood baseball pitcher, Dominick Dercole, warms up his arm to prepare to the season ahead.
W
hen head coach Ryan many that we have,” said Mau. “So, yeah going to need to put up some runs.
Mau first heard his team absolutely expect to be in the conference With the youth on the mound, Mau
was selected 10th in the tournament and to do much more than said the team has an “all hands on deck”
Preseason Big South Conference poll that.” approach and each pitcher is going to have
he briefly spoke to the team about it, The players, and especially those to play their role correctly to become the
but knew the squad as a whole would returning, echo the same sentiment and feel staff they want to be as a whole.
use the ranking as fuel to prove any and a chip on their shoulders to make it back. Now, also in his senior season like Tucker,
all doubters wrong as this season gets This year’s team returns 20 players, while pitcher John Gregory said he has taken
off the ground. welcoming 14 newcomers who will all need more of a leadership role in the clubhouse
“A lot of excitement. A lot of energy. I to make an impact when called upon for the and looked to improve his between-the-ears
think the focus has been really good the club to be successful. game in the offseason.
last couple weeks with some really crisp One of those returning players is senior He said, “… last year I didn’t think I was
practices because, as we all know, it will be second baseman Antwaun Tucker. The as great a leader as I could be,” and said
here before we know it. It’s right around the Chase City, Virginia native, and nephew he has looked to get more of the younger
corner. A lot of excitement in the buildup to to Longwood baseball legend Michael players to feel like they fit in and belong in
opening day,” said Mau. Tucker, said the energy and excitement of the program. Gregory said he was highly
In this point in preparation, as the season the tournament is one driving forces to inf luenced by former Lancer standout
will begin on Valentine’s Day for the first of make it back. Sammy Miller, who graduated in 2018
a four game set with Purdue Fort Wayne, “I want to be back. I know the team wants while John was only a sophomore.
Mau said practice is all about solidifying to be back. All of those that were there, they “He set the standard of the Longwood
team chemistry and also nailing down the want to be back. And (for) the freshmen, way. Like he took all of the young guys
smaller aspects of the game. that would be a great experience for them,” under his wing and was just like, ‘this is
“This is, in my opinion, our best collective said Tucker. how we do things here’, and he taught us
group as far as how we are gelling. I’m really After batting .297 a season ago, the what to do and what not to do in certain
excited about that” said Mau. “This time of 2019 All-Big South Honorable Mention situations. He was just an overall great
year you’re just touching some of your small selection returns as the team’s leading bat, leader and I think that’s where I developed
game packages, your bunt defenses, your and will shift from shortstop over to second some of my leadership skills today, which
first and third, your communication, your base in the field for this upcoming season, was from him,” said Gregory.
cuts and relays, just ironing out the things according to Mau. In using those lessons learned, Gregory
on the running game…” The head coach also announced other said he and his fellow teammates are
“Everything is in at this point when you changes to the Lancers’ defensive alignment looking to create a culture where everyone
are building that closely to the season, it’s for the campaign, as junior transfer Ricky is a part of what the team does. He also
just a matter of reviewing them and just Jimenez will take over Tucker’s previous role mentioned that this year’s senior class wants
ironing out a couple or wrinkles here-and- at shortstop and senior Nate Blakeney will to further instill that it is “unacceptable to
there,” he added. move from second base to third base. not make the (Big South) tournament and
This year’s team is looking to make a Mau feels these moves will place an overall embarrassment.”
return trip to the Big South Conference the players in positions they are more The schedule will open with 10 of 12
tournament, as the Lancers missed out a comfortable in, which would then produce games at Buddy Bolding Stadium, which
season ago, finishing at (11-41 5-22 Big more positive benefits for the team. gives the Lancers a heightened chance for a
South) and 10th in the conference. Only Alongside the position changes, Mau fast start out of the gates.
the top nine seeds clinch a berth into the expressed confidence that this year’s team Tucker said teams are simply more
postseason dance. will be “super aggressive” when running comfortable on their home field because
Mau said making the tournament is “an the bases and will also have more offensive there is a heightened knowledge of each
absolute” for the program and the team has firepower than in years past. thing that makes the diamond different
a “100 percent” belief that it is something “I expect a lot from our offensive club from opposing fields, which only sounds like
they are going to do. because they are veterans, because they have a small thing, but could be the difference in
“It’s just a first-check box, if you will, of had success and because we’re young on the the game.
pitching side of things,” said Mau. “We’reProud supporters of Longwood Athletics
Come try our new
All-you-can-eat buffet!
Medium 1 topping
Large cheese or 1 pizza with breadsticks
topping pizza for $8.99 for $10.99
with coupon code:
with coupon code:
LWPW1 LWPW2
Now accepting Lancer Ca$h
Carry-Out, Delivery, & Dine In
237 Sunchase Blvd
434.391.1000
Order online at pizzaworldonline.com or download our app
Pizza and much more!You can also read
