Oct. '11: TRUE LIFE - I'm a Cool Kid at GW

BUSINESS POLITICS FEATURES MUSIC FASHION HEALTH SPORTS OPINION CREATIVE WRITING

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TABLE OF CONTENTS EDITORS’ NOTE 3

STAFF Co-Editors in Chief Kwasi Agyeman Maya Frazier thenewace@gmail.com

DEFINITION OF COOL

BUSINESS 4

INSIDE LOOK OF OCCUPY WALL STREET

POLITICS 5

A NIGHT WITH TONI MORRISON

Assistant Editor in Chief Sydney Green sydxg@gwmail.gwu.edu

Politics

thenewace@gmail.com

FEATURES 6

TWO CENTENARIAN BLACK FRATERNITIES FIND A HOME AT GW A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A SWAGGED OUT BO$$ ONE-ON-ONE WITH GW’S COOLEST KIDS

Business

MUSIC 10

thenewace@gmail.com

HISTORY OF SWAG

thenewace@gmail.com

Culture Music

FASHION 11

PREPPY MEETS SWAG BO$$: 80’S EDITION

Malcolm Bouzi mbouzi@gwmail.gwu.edu

Fashion

thenewace@gmail.com

HEALTH 12

LAUNCH OF GW ‘CARE TEAM’

Sports

thenewace@gmail.com

SPORTS 13

ONE-ON-ONE WITH LASAN KROMAH

OPINION 14

Creative Writing

Patrice Laquinte pl71290@gwmail.gwu.edu

HOW TO GET THE GUY OF YOUR DREAMS HOW TO GET THE GIRL OF YOUR DREAMS

Copy Editors

CREATIVE WRITING 15

Layout

Editorial Staff

Angel Veliz sdotfly@gmail.com

THEORY OF RELATIVITY WELCOME TO THE FAMILY

Founder

Samuel Collins, Jr.

Special Thanks to the MSSC Media Team & our cover models.

- Taylor Guidon - Kyle Umemba

our sponsors: Email us at thenewace@gmail.com Follow us on Twitter @theacemag

EDITORS’ NOTE The Captain

Kwasi Agyeman

Past Issue Freshman Guide To ACE GW

Honestly, GW is one of the few schools where people actually get dressed for school. If you look carefully, you’ll see that people dress to impress. Guys wear mostly Sperrys and for girls, Hunter Boots. But I slowly see change occurring, I’m not sure if everyone wants to be an individual all of sudden or the freshman haven’t assimilated into being GW cool (wearing Vineyard Vines or buying Dre beat headphones).

In this issue we’re going to go on a journey to find what coolness or swag really means at GW. We conducted a wide range of interviews, took great pictures and also poked fun at some of GW stereotypes of coolness. Follow us as we tour Foggy Bottom.

On the note of what’s really cool, I’ve gotten into doing research about GW back in the day, it seems GW was cooler back then. Students led socio-political protests that shut down Rice Hall and they even made a concrete writing block saying ”FREE MANDELA,” opposing apartheid, that is still in Kogan. Yup, we were cooler.

Let’s get back there.

And for those who that need some guidance in being cool, I have a short list of “Five Ways to be the Coolest Kid on your Campus.”

Check it out on USA Today.

The Visionary

The Next Generation

The Ace Magazine’s welcome back issue this year is dedicated to all you cool kids. “True Life: I’m a Cool Kid at GW,” explores what it really means to be “cool” here on campus.

You have three options to be considered “cool” at GW: go greek, be an athlete, or have “swag”. Everyone’s familiar with the different Greek organizations on campus, and it’s hard to miss a GW Athlete dripping in their GW gear, but you might find yourself asking, “What exactly is swag?”.

No worries my friend, once again The Ace has got your back. Just like our last issue taught the freshman how to survive and thrive at GW, this issue details exactly what it takes to be the coolest kid at GW.

Brainstorming this issue was way too much fun and taking our ideas and turning it into a publication has been intense to say the least.

We explored and outlined some Greek history, had a one-on-one with the legendary Toni Morrison, and profiled some of the coolest kids on campus. This magazine seems to be full of surprises that not even I have been fully prepared for. All jokes aside, we hope that you enjoy this issue like all of our previous issues.

Maya Frazier

As important as this is however, The Ace Magazine was fortunate enough to have the unique opportunity of interviewing a literary legend, Toni Morrison.

For many of you, reading Toni Morrison’s literature in school or on your down time was a special experience. And as all of you know, Morrison visited GW to speak on her latest book, “A Mercy”, and dedicated a bench on campus that was designed and devoted for reflection on slavery. This topic has historical significance for all students, and deeper ancestral roots for others.

Upon learning what the bench was designed for, I thought to myself when was the last time I actually sat and reflected on slavery? The concept of the bench is really interesting to me, and I’m curious to see how the original vision for the bench will unfold after the buzz of Ms. Morrison’s visit leaves and campus returns to its regular routine.

I hope that you enjoy this issue and have fun learning about GW’s very own preppy, cool kids and swagged out bosses.

Sydney Green

Warning: all featured guests in this issue are really cool people who have provided us with real cool feedback. This issue contains some great articles, it would be in your best interest if you read our feature stories in your most sarcastic tone possible.

The Ace Magazine Mission

The Ace Magazine is a publication that connects the multicultural community to the university at large with contributions from student writers and faculty members. Going into its fourth year as the premier magazine of The George Washington University, The Ace Magazine continues to spark discussion between campus groups furthering our belief that “we all have similar issues no matter our color.”

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Want to write/work at the Ace Magazine? email: thenewace@gmail.com www.acemagazine.org

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INSIDE LOOK OF OCCUPY WALL STREET

By Kwasi Agyeman

M

any young Americans have developed a nice shiny apathetic shell that blocks out the major issues of our society. How many of us enjoy our day to day lives as college students and could care less about what happens a few miles away from us within DC or dare to even think about how Wall Street affects us. While we’re tweeting away and planking all over the place, banks are planning to charge fees for debit card use such as Bank of America, the cost of tuition rises and jobs for recent college grads keep disappearing. And for the most part, most college students only complain when Facebook has a new look.

However, what has turned out to be the social networking addiction of generation, can potentially lead us to form large active grassroots movements across the nation. It happened this past spring in the Arab world and a similar social network buzz is pushing forward the Occupy Wall Street movement.

This growing crusade is a loosely organized nationwide coalition whose main stance is “We are the 99% [that] will no longer tolerate the greed and corruption of the 1%.” The movement is leaderless and instead organized by local groups that push the overall agenda of returning America back into the hands of the common man and away from that of the big banks.

All opinions and ideas are openly heard in a group consensus.

It is a rare example of participatory democracy. Attendees meet at the ‘GA’ or General Assembly where they sit to hear the new ideas. Proposers of new ideas must answer questions and justify their views. Attendees revise the proposition until there is a nine out of ten agreement rate. This all done through specific ways, “They’ve already developed all these unique procedures and norms. There are also a bunch of hand signals for speaking, applauding, asking to be put on the “stack” (basically a question queue), among other things,” says Eric Gallager, a junior majoring in Political Science. Eric has joined the movement himself reaching out to the coalition in his home state in New Hampshire. However his outreach has shown a possible major issue of this leaderless movement, “When I suggested the greater regulations on businesses that Occupy Wall Street had listed, people in the Occupy New Hampshire group called them class warfare and anti-business.” Though there are specks of student involvement in the movement, the real mystery is focuses on the general indifference of most college students. “It’s the way the system is set up.

Apathy is one thing; at least it’s somewhat neutral. It’s the brainwashing that’s scary,” said Davron Akil, a senior majoring in International Affairs.

This is still a great opportunity for young Americans to get involved and demand change. The Federal Triangle protest site

Kwasi’s Final Take

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I think the movement is refreshing, it actually shows that as young Americans we are ready to get up and get publicly active about national issues that directly affect us. And necessarily not hot-topic issues that are driven by the mass media to divide and reap. I like the focus on the national issue of our collective finances and their use. This means in regards to college aid & loans, corporate incentives, displacement of jobs and similar issues that directly our financial security as Americans. Hopefully this energy can be carried forth for other issues that affect young people in America.

is walking distance from three major universities, including ours, but most of the protesters are older people who traveled from the Midwest. “I’ve been a laywer in Oklahoma for over 30 years, fighting for justice, only to find out there was no one fighting for me. I did all the right things, best GPA, top law school and then I realized, the financial system was taking advantage of me, from loans to credit cards, so I’m here to fight back, “ says Maggie Smithson, a retired lawyer from Oklahoma. We are all guided to be on a career track when we enter college, for those politically motivated, the resume booster is not the generic government internship, but instead it is organizing an independent grassroots political group. Now that is impressive and shows actual ground level experience.

“We need to educate ourselves outside of what has been taught to us, we have no excuse to be uninformed and apathetic about what’s actually important,” said Davron.

Maya’s Final Take

Let me start by saying I am a liberal democrat. I love protest movements, and the irony of this editorial is that on multiple times I’ve told my friends “we’re such a complacent generation, we never do anything radical anymore.” However, I find it innately difficult to support the “Occupy Wall Street Movement” fully. I get the cause, I agree with a lot of the reasoning, but the implementation for some reason doesn’t sit well with me.

I understand why people support the movement. Americans feel wronged by the greed exhibited on Wall Street. Bank executives and “corporate America” are thriving while the nation experiences historic low unemployment rates and unprecedented home foreclosures.

The notion that graduating from a four year accredited institution and instantly finding entry level employment in a field related to your undergraduate course of study is gone. It’s like an amazing dream that you wake up from too early and try desperately hard to get back to sleep and resume, but it’s never going to be the same. We live in a different America. I do think that something should be done. And I am by no means suggesting that individuals who are out “occupying” Wall Street should do nothing. But do the protesters really believe that these “big shots” on Wall Street are looking down from their corner offices feeling pressure from the thousands of people who demonstrate on the street? Americans may find issue with Wall Street’s policies but they’re not breaking the law, so why change, what’s the benefit for them? I think the movement is a great attempt but is not taken seriously and won’t stir up enough trouble to make a significant impact. I find it troubling though, for people who claim to be so pissed off by Wall Street and would never succumb to the evils of “corporate America” stand on the street “occupying” with resumes. They are chanting “the bank took my parents’ home” while simultaneously handing their resume’s to Wall Street employees as they leave their office buildings for a lunch break. Make up your mind people.

Wall Street is ruining you, but you want in?

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A NIGHT WITH TONI MORRISON

By Maya Frazier

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’ve started this article about seven times now and each time I feel like I’m not doing it justice. It’s Toni Morrison!! How do you explain the experience of interviewing a literary hero in 600 words? Growing up reading literature by the noblelaurite, made interviewing her seem unfathomable. Many go on journeys when they read good literature but few have the chance to speak with the person responsible for painting the vivid pictures in their mind. Recollecting on how I felt as I read “The Bluest Eye” and most recently her latest novel, “A Mercy”, I was overwhelmed with the opportunity to speak with Ms. Morrison. It was a great experience that I know will be in my life highlight reel forever.

At 80 years old, Ms. Morrison has produced nine critically acclaimed novels, won countless awards and received a myriad of honors. She is a living legend and literary hero for so many writers. Her literature has helped black students gain a sense of belonging to their community. She is the author of literature that has changed lives.

Toni Morrison visited GW on Wednesday, September 21, 2011 to dedicate the sixth bench with the Bench on the Road project and read a few excerpts from her most recent and upcoming novels. The Bench on the Road Project was started by members of the Toni Morrison Society in hopes of creating locations for the reflection of slavery and its legacy, throughout the nation and abroad. Ms. Morrison said, “A bench is such an undecorative, easy-access place. You don’t pray there. You don’t stand there and look. It’s not awe. It’s just a place to sit down.”

The benches, as she explained, are not intended to be full of fan fare and pomp and circumstance. The benches are intended for organic reflection on slavery rather than probing reactions.

Many have raised the question of “Why not Howard?”, where Ms. Morrison is both a graduate and former professor. Ms. Morrison, as well as members of the Toni Morrison Society explained that GW and particularly Lisner

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Auditorium was an ideal location for the bench due to its role in the civil rights movement. Until the passage of Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Washington, D.C. like most parts of the country practiced institutionalized segregation; separate but “equal” was the norm. When Lisner Auditorium-recognized as the most famous stage south of New York-integrated its audience in 1947, it was a prodigious accomplishment, integral to black history and the history of Washington D.C.

“She is a living legend and literary hero for so many writers and will continue to inspire those to come. ”

Ms. Morrison impressed the eager audience with a reading from her newest unpublished novel, “Home”.

She was gracious in answering questions and shared that her favorite time to write is at dawn. Ms. Morrison went on to say of her writing, “It sort of fills me together, intellectually and spiritually and in every way.”

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TWO CENTENARIAN BLACK FRATERNITIES FIND A HOME AT GW

By Kwasi Agyeman

It’s

the third week of September and University Yard is filled with hundreds of sorority women singing and waving banners as they welcome in their new sisters. Walk down 22nd street and you’ll see a swath of large fraternity rush banners. And depending on what fraternity has the command of the GW Greek world, you’ll see sorority girls wearing rush shirts of certain frats, Rush Pike, seems to be the most common. In the surge of IFC (Interfraternity Council) and Panhel (Pan Hellenic) activities that overwhelm the campus when the school starts, most new minority students get swept up as well. This broom sweep often leaves Multicultural Greeks behind, especially the Black fraternities.

However, for Patrice Laquinte, a senior and a member of Omega Psi Phi, size is not an obstacle, “Though Black Greek life at GW is not necessarily the biggest, I see it growing and I feel like the chapters here are developing real leaders.”

Patrice and his fraternity brothers have seen their fraternity and chapter grow by large margins in the years since they became members. Omega Psi Phi, founded at Howard University celebrated its 100th year from July 27th to 31th at the Washington D.C Convention Center. “The 100th Anniversary Conclave was the best week of my summer. D.C was flooded with 40,000-60,000 brothers of Omega Psi Phi. I met bruhz from every state in the US in the span of four days,” said Pierre Doriscat, a senior and member of Omega Psi Phi. His fraternity brother, Ahmad Martin, also a senior spoke on the chapter’s local history, “Our chapter, Delta Theta, was founded at Southeastern University on September 3, 1969 and from 1969 to 2008 we were active, with that school serving as our [local] charter. And then the school became defunct and we decided to move the charter to GW.” The move to GW came on the heels of finding a new home for the chapter. Ahmad said, “Georgetown does not recognize Greek Life and we already had a brother at GW.” The requirements to establish a chapter at GW required several layers of work which included approval from national level fraternity leaders and the GW Office of Greek Life. Pierre Doriscat, another member of the chapter added, “GW administrators welcomed us to campus with an epic reception held at The Alumni House.”

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The glowing reception of recently established Black fraternal chapters by the Office of GW Greek Life follows suit with Kappa Alpha Psi, another fraternity that is celebrating 100 years. The chapter has also seen a surprising growth in recent years after being re-established on campus. The chapter was founded at American University on September 12, 1981 and it quickly spread to the GW campus. It’s first Colonial member was GW basketball player, Bill McDonald in 1985.

From establishing a root early at the University to fading off in the mid 90’s, the chapter began a slow resurrection in the mid 2000’s that eventually to led recent consecutive new membership lines that doubled the size of the chapter. This spark growth eventually allowed the local chapter to gain the first black fraternity house on campus.

“It gives us a place to host great programs for our community,” said Philip Reynolds, a senior and chapter member. The ownership of the property has allowed the chapter to cross a line it never could imagine. For the first time, there was a constant public image that highlighted Black Greek Life. “It’s so easy to meet people now. People always pass by and look up at our banner and they want to talk to you,” said Lenworth James, a senior and chapter member. The historic townhouse has served a beam of pride not only to the chapter and national organization but also to the GW community. “We’re really close with a lot of the Multicultural Greeks so the house is open to a lot of events with other groups,” said Phil.

As the fall continues on, the lite-brite poster boards of PanHel’s Bid Day turn into sorority shirts and the rush shirts of IFC results in freshmen wearing pledge pins. However for GW’s two centenarian Black fraternities the work continues on as they face the uphill battle of pulling in and developing America’s rarest college student, the black male. “We will continue to look for men that share our same values and principles of manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift. I can’t predict the future, but I have faith that our chapters will be in fine hands and produce men that have not forgotten their humble beginnings,” Patrice said.

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A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A SWAGGED OUT BO$$

By Kwasi Agyeman

This story was compiled over a weekend session where I interviewed and talked to some of GW’s “swaggiest” students. I recorded some of their day to day stories 4th Floor, walking onto the court decked out in Nike basketball kicks, $150 and up. Then the game starts and he’s pressing up on the frail kids and dropping baskets! He gets fouled and still makes the reverse layup, then one thought comes to his mind “Why am I not on the GW Basketball team??!”

9:30 am 9/15/11

Thursday – Early Morning, Perfect Timing

Class starts at 9:35am. With only five minutes on the clock, there’s usually a high level of anxiety especially when the clock first read 9:30am and now the clock shows 9:31am. At this point, most people brush their teeth and get out fast!

For a swagged out boss it’s actually perfect timing. That’s enough time to pick the right pair of kicks. Jordans or Sperrys?

Jordans of course. Now the clock shows 9:33am, whereas most people are panicking, a swagged out boss is checking his iTunes playlist, looking for the right theme music to step out on the “streets”, Jay-Z or Drake? Today feels like a Jay-Z day, payday. Before he leaves at 9:40am, one last inventory sweep, diamond earrings check, iPhone check, Dre Beats headphones check, snapback hat check, no pen, no worries this a good chance to ask a girl in class for one.

It’s 9:45 am, while the teacher is talking, he walks in real calm and everyone looks his way. No need for him to feel awkward, this is called maximum visibility. He gets a seat in the back.

Dre Beats headphones are turned off, but still on his head.

5:30 pm Friday – Getting Recruited In Hell Well

9/16/11

Most students use their Friday afternoons as a time to relax and plan their night, maybe look up places to have dinner or get an early start on homework.

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For a swagged out boss it’s time to hit the gym, no need to lift weights on Friday, that’s awkward. The real workout today is on the court. He walks to the 3rd Floor of Hell Well, not the 4th Floor because that’s where the kids that play in running shoes and keep missing the basket are. He finally gets to the

11:50 PM 9/17/ 11

Saturday – Planning the Late Night Moves Usually by midnight most students are enjoying their night, whether it’s at a party or hanging out with friends.

For a swagged out boss, his night has just begun. He’s been checking his twitter timeline since 11:30pm. Specifically on girls that he likes, after a few more minutes he’s made up a two event walkthrough. First, he’s going to stop at a dorm party and see if the girl he likes is there. After all, her name just popped up on his timeline and she hash tagged the dorm room where the party is. And if that doesn’t go through, he’s going to stop at this “90’s Party.” He walks in the dorm party and is trying to look for her but still plays it cool. As he tries to sit down, someone spills a drink all over his Polo Rugby shirt.

Whereas most people may get mad if they have a stained shirt, to a swagged out boss, this is just another great opportunity.

Now he’s swag surfin’ through the party with a white V-neck on which is a must-have for every up and coming swagged out boss. Next thing, he’s trying to check his “big boss watch” and finds it hard to see in the dark. At this moment he realizes that he misses his G-Shock from freshman year. Finally, he figures out the time and it reads 1:45 am.

Once again for the average student by 1:45am, the night is rounding up, cabs are being called and people are heading home, but for a swagged out boss this is maximum visibility Part II. This is the perfect time to head to the “90’s Party.” Not necessarily because he’s trying to party, coming super late to parties is the best time to pick up girls at the “let out.” By the way, he never planned on switching clothes to fit the theme for “90’s Party,” the retro Nike Air Maxes he has on first came out in 1995, that’s 90’s enough.

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ONE ON ONE WITH GW COOLEST KIDS, THE PREPPY KIDS DanCreamer2013

Where are you from?

Beverly, MA What’s your signature piece of clothing?

Blue Hundred’s shoes. I haven’t retired them just yet.

What student organizations are you a part of?

Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity. Rush Pike bro.

What do you do in your spare time?

Listening to/finding new music, working out and the occasional yoga sesh, dancing in guards basement.

AnnaMaeGibson 2013 Where are you from?

Bartow, FL

What’s your signature piece of clothing?

My signature piece of clothing is a bright summer sundress.

What student organizations are you a part of?

I am a member of Delta Gamma Colonial Cabinet 2011, College Republicans, and the Order of Omega.

What is your favorite place in DC to hangout?

NicoleMills2013

My favorite place in DC to hangout is in historic Georgetown by the old canal.

Where are you from?

Glastonbury, CT What’s your signature piece of clothing?

Scarves! They’re so easy to just throw on for class and can make an outfit.

What’s your favorite song?

Right now it’s the Deadmau5 remix of You & I by Medina. Also, How To Love

by Lil Wayne.

What is your favorite place in DC to hangout?

When it’s beautiful weather, I love to just go hang out by the mall and have a picnic.

Where do you like to shop?

Urban Outfitters and Madewell.

What is your favorite restaurant in DC?

My favorite restaurant in DC is either Bayou on Penn or Georgia Brown’s!

TaylorGuidon2012

Where are you from?

Bethlehem, PA What’s your signature piece of clothing?

Any type of shoe, from a pair of high top sneakers, down to a boat shoe. If I see it and like it I buy it immediately.

What do you do in your spare time?

During the week it’s all engineering and weekends involve a lot of hockey. I love going to Caps games, bars all over DC, and concerts.

What is your favorite restaurant to eat at in DC? DC has a ton of great restaurants, but my favorite has to be Fogo de Chao. This place is great, it’s a Brazilian steakhouse, so basically it’s an all you can eat meat buffet.

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ONE ON ONE WITH GW COOLEST KIDS, THE SWAG BO$$ES KyleUmemba 2015

ToriGuy2014

Where are you from?

Cleveland Ohio What’s your signature piece of clothing?

My afro? That’s not clothing, but I can’t think of a signature..hmm maybe leggings?

What’s your favorite song?

Right now it’s Wash-Bon Iver What do you do in your spare time?

I like to watch Weeds and Sex and the City or listen to music Where do you like to shop?

There’s this thrift store off of the U Street metro stop. I don’t remember the name.

Where are you from?

I’m from Chelsea, MA. It’s about five minutes North of Boston.

What’s your signature piece of clothing?

It’s between my Levi’s denim jacket or my special Jordan 7’s that I got a few years back.

What do you do in your spare time?

In my spare time you can either catch me playing basketball, listening to music, or just wilding out with friends.

Where do you like to shop?

So far the coolest place I’ve been to shop is Majors. The gear is just real exclusive and they’re definitely on another level as far as the graphic tees, apparel, and sneakers.

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ChanceJackson2012 Where are you from?

Chicago, IL (right in the heart of the city!)...lol.

What’s your signature piece of clothing?

A staple in my closet is jackets and blazers of all kinds!

What do you do in your spare time?

In my spare time I love meeting new people, designing and sewing gowns/dresses, and dancing.

What is your favorite restaurant in DC?

My favorite restaurant is Oya Lounge. I just love the ambiance and the food is great!

What is your favorite place in DC to hangout?

As far as hangout spots, I like the Empress Lounge at Mandarin Hotel and the the W Hotel rooftop is always cool.

GabrielOigbokie2014

What year are you?

Sophomore, Class of 2014 Where are you from?

Memphis, TN What’s your signature piece of clothing?

My metallic green Delta Express jacket What’s your favorite song?

Job by Curren$y, off Verde Terrace mixtape What do you do in your spare time?

Write and make short films What is your favorite restaurant in DC? I’m always down for some Chipotle.

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MelaLawson2014

Where are you from?

Washington, D.C. born…DC/PG raised.

What’s your signature piece of clothing?

I have a signature style maybe, which would be color, color, color… Not so much one piece, though.

What’s your favorite song?

Ever or right now? Right now, it would be “N*ggas in Paris” since WTT just dropped. Ever, it’s between “Orange Moon” x Erykah Badu and “I Used to Love Her” x Common.

What is your favorite place in DC to hangout?

The Fridge! It’s an alternative to Busboys and Poets. I actually think it’s a lot better.

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HISTORY OF S W A G If

By Sydney Green

“swag” is dead, then we must have killed it. Contrary to popular belief, “swag” is not a word made up by the likes of Jay-Z or Lil B. It’s an appearance, a mindset, and a lifestyle that’s been around longer than anyone alive who still uses the term. Long before anyone hash-tagged “swag” on twitter or made attempts to replicate the outfits of their “swagged-out” idols, young stars like Sam Cooke, Elvis, Chuck Berry, and Little Richard created it.

decades preceding the 80’s, for the first time in history it was cool to be urban. By 1984 we’d see one of the most successful black male solo artist having people all over the world trying to “moonwalk”. Michael Jackson introduced a new level of success to the black population and a new level of “swag” that he let speak for itself. Meanwhile, Run DMC and The Beastie Boys combined rap and rock and mainstreamed hip hop as an internationally popular music genre.

The 1950’s was the era in music history in which Rock and Roll emerged as a popular genre worldwide. Back when your vintage leather bomber was brand new and dressing in slacks, a button-down shirt, tie, and dress shoes was normal. In the 50’s you had swag if you could harmonize and perform a two step with your three best friends. Of course this was quite a few years before the black power revolution when young AfricanAmerican stars reached success by assimilating as best as they could into the predominantly white music industry.

Emerging hip hop groups would dress in wildly colorful clothing and continue the trend of including everyday topics throughout their lyrics, further solidifying the influence that music artists had over their fan-base. Young black girls permed their hair to look more like Whitney Houston and young black men wore jump suits, high-top sneakers, and backwards caps to become the Fresh Prince’s of their own hometowns. Back then, music was more of a lifestyle than an industry.

Then came the 60’s when radio stations would play the best songs from artists such as Diana Ross and The Beatles. Popular lyrics consisted of love, heartbreak, hardships, and other dayto-day tribulations faced by listeners and artists alike. The 60’s was also the era in which black artists such as Aretha Franklin and James Brown developed a crossover appeal and became music pioneers in both the black and white world. Despite this new-found fame, black artists remained relatable to their fanbases and led a strong influence in fashion as well as music.

The 70’s was the launch of all genre’s and music became increasingly secular, political, and controversial. Various versions of Rock and Roll remained popular among the majority of listeners, R&B became internationally popular, Disco had it’s rise and fall, Punk Rock and “Garage Band” music emerged with the Ramones and the Sex Pistols, and by the late 70’s hip hop was born along with the peak of black nationalism...now that’s swag.

As DJ’s spun records and sampled songs from the revolutionary

60's

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80's

| The Beatles | Diana Ross

By the 1990’s, however, the original hip hop cultural elements diminished to talk of business, money and materialism as rap music took over the world and became the highest paid form of music in the industry. The same youths that were expected to be dead or incarcerated were now raking in millions and becoming hip hop legends. Artists such as Notorious B.I.G. and Jay-z instilled the possibility of black luxury into the minds of their fans.

This trend continued into the 2000’s when different genre’s of hip hop music emerged. Kanye West began sporting a Louis Vuitton backpack and introduced his listeners to the finer things in life, and in 2008 M.I.A. proclaimed “no one on the corner has swagger like us.” “Swag” became a common term over the last few years, yet the artists with the most “swag” are the ones that remained true to the early, relatable elements of music.

So maybe it’s been hash-tagged a few too many times, and maybe Lil B abused it beyond relief, but “swag” isn’t something we created...just something we killed.

| Van Halen | Run DMC

50's | Billie Holiday | Elvis 70's

| Jackson 5 | Aero-Smith

2000's

90's

| Nsync | Parrell

| Aaliyah | Notorius B.I.G.

BUSINESS POLITICS FEATURES MUSIC FASHION HEALTH SPORTS OPINION CREATIVE WRITING

PREPSTER MEETS SWAG BO$$ - 80’S EDITION By

Carlton’s high-top fade was popular in the 90’s and is definitely making a comback among preppy kids and swag bosses alike.

A button down shirt and cardigan is a classic look, maybe not so much in the fashion that Carlton is known for.

WIll rocks a snapback, similar to those you’d find in a swag bosses’ collection.

Alfonso Ribeiro “Carlton Banks” - Fresh Prince of Bel-Air

Playing video games instead of doing homework? Swag.

The wild print on Smith’s pants are sure to make them a staple in any thrift-shopper’s closet.

He rocks high-top Nikes, probably to compliment the high-top fade hiding under his snapback.

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Will Smith - Fresh Prince of Bel-Air

Want to see more of our Preppy vs. Swag bo$$ Timeline, check us out online

BUSINESS POLITICS FEATURES MUSIC FASHION HEALTH SPORTS OPINION CREATIVE WRITING

LAUNCH OF GW ‘CARE TEAM’

By Janel Coleman

T

he CARE Team is a group of services on campus that work together in order to help students be most successful during their academic careers.

Before the CARE Team was created there was a lack of coordination between the services that were offered to students. Dean Rebecca Sawyer states that students were frustrated with the “bureaucracy” within GW and having to break the red tape in order to get their needs met through various offices. The CARE Team provides a holistic approach to caring for students. Services offered on campus follow up with one another in addition to providing referrals.

In this way, the CARE Team brings more people to the table, as Sawyer states, and students are efficiently being connected to the resources that they need.

need connect with your House Staff or an administrator on campus that you have a good relationship with and they can refer you to the appropriate office.

Ultimately, the CARE Team is meant to be a support system. The goal is to help students graduate and navigate through the obstacles that come up along the way.

The CARE Team includes

If you need help with locating a resource for a specific

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• Center for Alcohol and Other Drug Education (CADE) • Center for Student Engagement • University Counseling Center • Student Health • Disability Support Services (DSS) • Multicultural Student Services Center (MSSC) • LGBT Resource Center “Ultimately, the • Athletics CARE Team is • Financial Services meant to be a • Office of Civility and Community Standards support system.”

• Dean of Students

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ONE-ON-ONE WITH LASAN KROMAH

By Matt Wilson

hopes to continue with basketball professionally, “making money doing the thing [he] loves.”

Kromah definitely has high hopes for this upcoming year, and is certainly looking to build on last year’s 17-14 record. Kromah is looking forward to coming back this season, especially after last season’s disappointing foot injury. He’s “itching to get at it, [and] can’t wait, [he’s] very excited about the new coaching and getting in front of the crowd.” In the off season Kromah did a lot to improve his game, he worked on his ball handling and his overall explosion.

I believe there are definitely high hopes for this upcoming season, especially with a brand new coaching staff. Kromah’s goals for this season are for the team to reach their full potential, make it to the A-10 finals, and then NCAA tournament. The Colonials return four seniors and four juniors from last year squad, and with a year of added experience I definitely think Kromah’s goals can be reached.

Q: How was the off season?

A: Off sesason was good, worked real hard in the weight room, doing pool work. The assistant coach is doing a great job on helping me with fundamentals, mechanics, and getting ready for the upcoming season.

Q: What’s one part of your game that you have worked on this past offseason, and another part of your game that you are still looking to improve?

E

very basketball fan appreciates a great crossover. There is usually one every game, that electrifies the crowd. Every fan knows the most electrifying crossover where, rookie guard Allen Iverson, crossed the game’s greatest player to ever lace up a pair of Jordan’s, his airness Michael Jordan. The play was an iso designed where Iverson would come off a down screen. Michael Jordan switched off of his man to play Iverson.

Iverson gave Jordan a quick shake to the left, dribbled between his legs came back to the left, followed by another quick shake to his right, leaving Jordan behind him as Iverson dribbled right and pulled dup for an 18 foot jumper. This crossover is remembered by many, but none more than our very own Lasan Kromah because this was the move that started it all, the move that inspired Kromah to pick up a basketball and try a simple crossover. But who knew that a crossover could then turn into a dream.

Kromah, a DMV local, coming from Greenbelt, Maryland, is a 6’5 junior guard who sat out last season with a devastating foot injury suffered in a preseason game against North Carolina State. Kromah is not just looking forward to this season, but he expects a successful one.

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At George Washington University, Kromah is a Criminal Justice major. He explains that his teachers “are real cool, [and] every once and a while [they] talk about a little basketball.” Kromah

A: The part I worked on is my ball handling, and being more explosive. And I’m still looking to improve my ball handling.

Class: Junior Hometown:Greenbelt, MD High School:Eleanor Roosevelt Height / Weight: 6-5 / 197 Position: G

fast facts

Favorite color? Royal Blue Favorite food? Lasagna Favorite movie? Juice Favorite type of music? R&B Favorite athlete? Kobe Bryant

BUSINESS POLITICS FEATURES MUSIC FASHION HEALTH SPORTS OPINION CREATIVE WRITING

HOW TO GET THE GUY OF YOUR DREAMS

By Lauren Tateosian

In a college campus brimming with students from all walks of life it can be hard to know how to win over the cute guy you’ve had your eye on. Although girls aren’t stereotypically the ones to make the first move, that doesn’t mean there is nothing you can do. Here you will find some tips that will guide you on your way to finding that man who is worthy of the flyness that is yourself.

CONFIDENCE

There is nothing, and I literally mean nothing, more attractive than confidence. Find the parts of yourself that truly make you love yourself and don’t forget about them. By emphasizing that which you like, you will draw other people to see your good characteristics, physically and mentally.

SELECTIVENESS

Ladies. I’m going to be honest with you when I say you have GOT to keep it classy. If you are looking for a quality man with real relationship potential, you have to make sure to be relationship material yourself. Make sure you aren’t settling for any average Joe because when someone better comes along you want a sexual and romantic reputation that won’t come around to bite you in the butt later on.

GET INVOLVED

As fun as the club can be on the weekend, it is pretty difficult to tell whether or not you have a good man on your hands when his or your judgment is impaired. Instead, try getting more involved in something you really love. Not only will your ambition be attractive, but you will be putting yourself in a position to meet other driven dudes who share your interests.

TRUST

For a lot of girls, by the time they reach adulthood they feel jaded by their previous heartbreaks and lost trust. If you are actually interested in giving a guy a chance, then it’s important to try to loosen up and trust him. Let him make you laugh and make you happy. I know the past is hard to forget, but you can miss out on some amazing opportunities by being afraid of them.

HOW TO GET THE GIRL OF YOUR DREAMS

By Lenworth James

I know there are a lot of guys in college that sit back and admire that special somebody from a far. You just don’t know how to talk to her or what to do to grab her attention. We can all agree that every girl is different but there are some key things that you can do to get the one you want. Remember this isn’t a list that will work for any specific girl, this list is just some tips to help you.

LISTEN

Girls love to be listened to, I mean who doesn’t. Pay attention when she tells you things that are important to her. This will help you in so many ways. First off, if you listen you will find out things about her that nobody knows, such as hidden hobbies or talents. Maybe she loves soul food. You can take her to B.Smith’s or oohs and ahhs, but this information doesn’t come to you if you don’t listen. Also you can find out her likes and dislikes in a relationship which is helpful for you in getting her to be your girlfriend. Lastly listening helps you later on if you continue talking with this girl. Drop a line every once in awhile. For ex. I remember when you told me…… She will feel special knowing that not only did you listen to her but you remembered.

LOOK GOOD

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I know we are in college and dressing up everyday is sometimes a hassle but looking like you pulled an all nighter will not get you the girl. It’s not necessarily dress to impress but dress to be consistent. Brush your hair when you wake up in the morning, make sure you take showers regularly. This may seem comical but we all know that this doesn’t happen for everyone. Also smell nice, guys we are too old for axe now. Get some real cologne. Also dress your own style but do it well. We aren’t all from the same place everyone has their own style, so own it and wear it confidently.

MAKE HER A PRIORITY

I’m going to keep it real with you, if you do not make the girl you want a priority in your life she will leave you. This is college and on top of that it is DC. Believe it or not you are not the only man in her world especially if you are just started to get to know her. Make her a priority, Good morning texts and Goodnight texts are a great way to show her that you are thinking about her. Even before you get her number ask in person not over Facebook. This shows that you aren’t just trying to hit and quit but this is something you want long term.

If you truly believe this is the girl you want then put in the work to get her.

TALK TO HER/FLIRT

Easy way if you are nervous to talk to the girl you like is to do it in a group setting. Make sure your close enough to her that she can hear you chiming into conversations. Eye contact and smiling is a good way to get her attention. You will never get the girl unless you talk to her so you have to be brave and break the ice. In a group setting this is a lot easier. You can learn stuff about her without the awkward times of being one on one.

BUSINESS POLITICS FEATURES MUSIC FASHION HEALTH SPORTS OPINION CREATIVE WRITING

creative writing Theory of Relativity Ryan Mitchell

As days go by, it seems to me, The important things seem less so.

All things considered, that may be Why I’ve chosen to let such things go.

You see, the things we value most like money, fame and style, Usually make us ignore a host of things much more worthwhile.

Seconds and minutes turn to years, Then we’re left with memories.

And it turns out all that we’ve held dear Brings us no serenity.

All we have are time and choice To construct this life we live I’ve noticed in spite of all the noise Importance is relative.

Material wealth has its place as do all blessings from above But relatively speaking I’d rather chase the opportunity to love.

Welcome to the Family Patrice Laquinte

Chapters begin, chapters end and what I hold deep to my heart is a friend.

A friend can guide you, assist you, and protect you.

As we realize no one can help you more than you.

Although this may be true, there is someone out there that may need your help.

As we enter a new year, a new chapter, or a new beginning, why cant we all win?

Why can’t we all come together and get our minds out of the gutter.

In this community we need each other so we can lean on another.

Lend a hand and make a difference before all is said and done.

Before it is all over We been there, we are going there, we are all still here.

Compare yourself to your peers, conquer all fears, and make sure its a productive year

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BUSINESS POLITICS FEATURES MUSIC FASHION HEALTH SPORTS OPINION CREATIVE WRITING

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