The Hilltop, September 3, 2015, Volume 100, Issue 4 by Howard University's The Hilltop Newspaper

SEPTEMBER 3, 2015 | @THEHILLTOPHU | VOLUME 100 ISSUE 4

COURTESY PHOTO

THE PREVALENCE OF SEXUAL ASSAULTS Will Fuller

ON COLLEGE CAMPUSES sexual assaults are committed bysomeone who knows the victim, according to a report from the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN).

Staff Writer

ccording to a recent crime report from the Howard University Department of Public Safety, there has beenfour sexual assaultsreported on campus this year, compared to only two offenses reported in 2014.

Senior Mercedes Richard said that one of her friends was sexually assaulted at a party during her freshman year. As a result, Richard had to became a strong source of support for her friendafter the traumatic experience.

Sexual assault – any involuntary sexual contact including rape, fondling, molestation and the uttering of sexual comments – is an epidemic that has changed the lives of many college students across the nation.

“You don’t have to live in fear,” Richard said. Only about 20 percent of sexual assault cases that occur on campus are reported to police, according to a report released by the U.S. Justice Department in December of 2014. The report goes on to say that about one in 10 victims of sexual assault on campus feel that what happened to them isn’t important enough to bring to the attention of the authorities.Fear of judgment and humiliation are some of themain reasons why sexual assault incidents on campus go underreported.

“[The statistic] is frightening,” said freshman Xiomara Francis. “[This] could easily happen to me or one of my friends.” Statistics of sexual assault on college campuses nationwide are staggering. According to a report released by the White House Task Force, one in five college students experience some kind of sexual assault while attending college. Around 82 percent of reported

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“Students are afraid of the stigma of reporting [sexual assault], and they don’t know where to report it,” said Dr. Akosoa McFadgion, project manager at the Howard University Interpersonal Violence Prevention Program (HU – IVPP). Women are more likely to be a victim of sexual assault than men, according to the National Institute of Justice and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, men also experience cases of sexual assault. “If a man [is a victim], needless to say, between the homophobic attitudes and increasing shaming factor, you don’t hear about it because it’s [not often] reported,” said Dr. Ayana WatkinsNorthern, director of the Howard University’s Counseling Service. The consumption of alcohol and drugs also play a major factor in sexual assault cases on and off campus, according to statistics from the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc.

ANALYZE BOWSER’S PLAN TO REDUCE CRIME Are we really becoming safer and stronger? Page 5

“If a person has been drinking alcohol, they legally cannotconsent to sex, even if they agreed too it,” said Howard University Police Chief Brian K. Jordan, executive director for security and safety of HUPSD. “Whether you are the victim or perpetrator, if you’re under the consumption of alcohol, you can’t make good decisions.”

Sexual assault is a human rights violation that can have physical, psychological and emotional affects on victims. According to RAINN, effects of sexual violence including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), flashbacks, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), depression and suicide. “A person who seeks to impose that kind of [act] on another person is typically someone who is psychologically unhealthy,” said Watkins-Northern. There are several resources for students to use if they are a victim or know a victim of sexual assault. In addition to a Mental Health Clinic that provides services for

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those affected, the University Counseling Service provides confidential testing, counseling, outreach services and a crisis line that operates 24 hours a day. The HU – IVPP also works to enhance the students’ safety and quality of life through education and training about sexual assault, dating violence and other forms of harm. “There are support systems in place,” Watkins-Northern said. There are efforts to educate people – victims in particular – but everyone knows about the realities of sexual assault.”. The Howard University Department of Public Safety will be hosting a Safety Awareness Fair on Sept. 23 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. to increase personal safety around campus. “In terms of remaining safe, you always have to be aware of your environment, who you’re with, what you’re doing and who you agree to do it with,” said Jordan.

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SEPTEMBER 3, 2015 The Hilltop Editorial Oﬃce 2251 Sherman Ave. NW (202) 806-4749

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Remembering THE HILLTOP

BISHAARA “BK” KENNEDY AND JOHNNY “TRE” WYCHE III Richard Foster-Shelton Staff Writer

n Sunday, Aug. 30, at 8 p.m., the Howard University community gathered on the yard outside of Douglass Hall to celebrate the lives of two fallen bison: class of 2016’s Johnny “Tre” Wyche II of Philadelphia and Bishaara Kennedy of Brooklyn, New York, with a candlelight vigil. Wyche, known affectionately as “Philly Tre,” by many, passed away Aug. 9th in a fatal car accident. During his time at Howard, Wyche became a member of the Drew Hall Step Team, as well as a member of Alpha Kappa Psi Business Fraternity. Wyche is survived by his brother Myles, who is a sophomore at Howard University.

Kennedy passed away Aug. 13th in a roadside accident in Florida while tending to a flat tire on the highway. During his time at the university, Kennedy, like Wyche, also became a member of the Drew Hall Step Team. The ceremony was conducted by Howard University’s Philadelphia Club President Barry Bettis, who began with a moment of silence. It shifted to a lighter mood with stories told by the Class of 2016 about the two beloved individuals. A poem to the melody of “You are my sunshine” from fellow Drew Hall Step Team member Marquell Washington stirred emotions throughout the crowd. The vigil culminated in an inspiring word from Wyche’s father. Afterwards, the candles were lit and a prayer concluded the service.

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CAMPUS

THE HILLTOP

SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

PARKING WARS: CAMPUS PARKING PRICES RISE

Devin Barnwell

but the alternative street parking can rack up costs.

Campus Editor

oward University’s annual reserved permit parking is not exactly easy to obtain or afford for students and staff on campus. A 2015 annual permit for students is over three hundred dollars per semester, doubling in price beginning this fall. Without registering for a permit months in advance of the semester, it certainly isn’t guaranteed to students. “Normally, if you want any parking, you have to get it in the spring semester, which I wasn’t here for,” said Brittany Ray Gregory, a doctoral student and a teacher in the School of Communications who drives to campus. The long process to register for parking stops many students and staff from attempting to get a permit in the first place,

Permits are only available in twelve month increments. The price drastically lowers in the summer semester to $34 for students, and $60 for faculty/staff monthly. Much of high parking expense during the school year comes from the very limited amount of parking space available when students and professors return to classes after the summer. Students and staff also have the option to pay per day for parking. But paying for parking daily on campus offers even more expense; the $8 daily fee per day would total just over $1400 just for one semester. “I’d rather pay the annual fee. I just really hope to get parking soon,” Gregory said. If an employee cannot obtain parking, they must find alternatives to driving to campus,

regardless of tenure or legacy as a professor. “As a professor at Howard, it is an inconvenience to search around for parking,” Professor Jami Ramberan, an associate professor and faculty spotlight.“It’s too expensive, so we waste a lot of time [as opposed to being in class] trying to find parking off campus. We don’t want to be late for class, so it puts us in a bind.” Many of Howard’s professors have also reached an age where heavy physical exertion may be an issue. According to a 2011 report by the Senate to Study Administrator and Faculty Salaries at Howard, over 75% of the faculty is at or near retirement age (<70 y/o). “It’s a pain. Especially since we haven’t seen a salary increase in years, we’re putting out more and getting less,” said Carol Dudley, Director for

Career Development at the School of Communications. Employees like Director Dudley and part time staff/faculty can choose to pay by having the charge deducted from their payroll; but if they incur an unexpected charge for parking, they are wholly responsible for keeping track of all payments, and the university reserves the right to assign back parking fees. “It’s a lot of money, and I just want to be able park close when I come to work. It’s a real pain,” Dudley said. The Department of Parking and Transportation has rescheduled the student registration days to begin Sept. 2 to Sept. 4. Registration will start each day at 2 p.m. in the Blackburn Center. The department could not be reached for comment, despite multiple attempts to contact.

SHUTTLE GETS A NEW STOP

Devin Barnwell Campus Editor

Beryl Kessio Staff Writer

oward University’s west campus shuttle now takes students to the corner of Columbia Road and 14th Street before dropping students off at the university’s Law School. The shuttle bus takes a ten minute drive from main campus, and runs to the Law School every hour.

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Lawrence Warr, Virginia and Maryland Contract Manager and supervisor for Reston Limousine, the company the university partners with for shuttle buses, stated that the change was due to student feedback requesting stops at the Columbia Heights Metro Station. “I think it’s nice to get the voice of the students heard. It’s definitely something we wanted to happen for quite some time, and finally it did,” said Alexandra Joseph, senior political science major. “Small steps.”

Other students are not nearly as excited about the shuttle bus route addition.

“I think it’s going to take longer for another shuttle to come back to campus now because it tends to be congested on Columbia Road,” Daija Stafford, a junior psychology major, said. As time goes on, route evaluations will continue to be made by the university to decide whether the routes are effective for students.

SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

CAMPUS

THE HILLTOP

Cure It All:

HOOP FOR HOPE, THE PREVIEW

Precious OsagieErese Deputy Manager

It also plans to increase funds for the Department of Forensic Sciences to hire more crime scene investigators, prioritize murder cases and eliminate its backlog of untested evidence. Both of these proposals have the potential for positive change within the D.C. community. There is little to no objection in that respect.

effort to keep readers calm. 105 homicides with four months left in this year isn’t a small number, particularly when considering the “relatively small” size of Washington, D.C. Point four increases penalties for violent crimes committed on the public transit system or at any park and recreation centers.

should consider foot officers, as well as officers riding public transportation, who will attempt to combat the violence and theft on public transportation. The fifth point within Mayor Bowser’s initiative calls to“initiate a new community grant program dedicated to funding non-profits that helps improve the lives of

The sixth item in the “Safer, Strong D.C.” initiativefocuses onreducing unnecessary contact between the community and police. This would ideally prevent unnecessary harassment by the police among community members.

Mayor Bowser’s first item on the “Safer, Strong D.C.” initiative calls to authorize the use of money to sustain the increase in police officers in our hardest hit areas, until it is no longer needed.

Cases of police brutality have often stemmed from excessive use of force for minor incidents. Because police brutality is a hotbutton issue in the nation right now. This item has the chance of being the most impressive and effective legislation on the “Safer, Strong D.C.” agenda.

To someone living outside of our nation’s capital, this initiative may appear to offer refreshing solutions to the crime spike. But, if you’ve been watching the news at all within the last year or know anything about Washington, you know that is plan is flawed.

The last item on Mayor Bowser’s agendagives misdemeanor offenders the privilege to conduct their lives in a normal fashion until their trial. Offenders don’t have to spend large amounts of time in jail awaiting trial. This item seems to attempt to lesson the harshness of the criminal justice system on petty crimes- a much needed focal point in our criminal justice system.

If their orders are to followPolice Chief Cathy Lanier,then we can surely expect resistance, since roughly 97 percent of D.C. police union members voted that they did not have confidence in her leadership. Along with that discrepancy, the phrase “until it is no longer needed” doesn’t sit right. There’s no telling how long it will take to solve this issue, so shelling out the money until it is solved is irresponsible. The second item on the initiative’s agenda proposes “an incentive program to encourage businesses, property owners, and churches to install security cameras – to deter crime and identify criminals.”

hasn’tD.C. officials address the very real problems caused by gentrification within the city by creating and supporting non-profit groupsfor families uprooted by gentrification?Thisis considered by many the main catalyst forthe tensions between residentsin the District, which in turn causes a spike in crime. You cannot solve a problem without addressing its origins.

Mayor Bowser’s third point in the initiative serves mainly as a change in tone. Bowser uses the diction “relatively small” when referring to violentcriminals in what can be perceived as an

This includes on the Metro bus, Metro train or at bus stops. Instead of increasing the penalty, why not have excess officers transferred from the streets to the metro stations?The District

individuals and families living in areas victimized by violent crime.” Although this is an admirable item within the initiative, why

Overall the intentions of the “Safer, Stronger D.C.” initiative are good, but ultimately fail to address the roots of the problem within the D.C. community. Hopefully the Mayor will listen to the response of her constituents and adjust items on her initiative accordingly.

NEWS

THE HILLTOP

SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

SAFER AND STRONGER? TAKE A LOOK AT MAYOR BOWSER’S NEW INITIATIVE

Gabrielle Headley Staff Writer

n Aug. 28, Mayor Muriel Bowser released her “Safer, Stronger D.C.” initiative to attack the District’s crime spike. In the plan, Bowser calls forincreasedpolice presence, funds to help aid the communityand higher sentences for violent offences. Strong backlash came from D.C. community, social media and activist group #BlackLivesMatter after Mayor Bowser introduced the plan. Mayor Bowser’s first item on the “Safer, Strong D.C.” initiative calls to authorize the use of money to sustain the increase in police officers in our hardest hit areas, until it is no longer needed. To someone living outside of our nation’s capital, this initiative may appear to offer refreshing solutions to the crime spike. But, if you’ve been watching the news at all within the last year or know anything about Washington, you know that is plan is flawed. If their orders are to followPolice Chief Cathy Lanier,then we can surely expect resistance, since roughly 97 percent of D.C.

police union members voted that they did not have confidence in her leadership. Along with that discrepancy, the phrase “until it is no longer needed” doesn’t sit right. There’s no telling how long it will take to solve this issue, so shelling out the money until it is solved is irresponsible. The second item on the initiative’s agenda proposes “an incentive program to encourage businesses, property owners, and churches to install security cameras – to deter crime and identify criminals.” It also plans to increase funds for the Department of Forensic Sciences to hire more crime scene investigators, prioritize murder cases and eliminate its backlog of untested evidence. Both of these proposals have the potential for positive change within the D.C. community. There is little to no objection in that respect. Mayor Bowser’s third point in the initiative serves mainly as a change in tone. Bowser uses the diction “relatively small” when referring to violentcriminals

the metro stations?The District should consider foot officers, as well as officers riding public transportation, who will attempt to combat the violence and theft on public transportation. The fifth point within Mayor Bowser’s initiative calls to“initiate a new community grant program dedicated to funding nonprofits that helps improve the lives of individuals and families living in areas victimized by violent crime.”

in what can be perceived as an effort to keep readers calm. 105 homicides with four months left in this year isn’t a small number, particularly when considering the “relatively small” size of Washington, D.C. Point four increases penalties for violent crimes committed on the public transit system or at any park and recreation centers. This includes on the Metro bus, Metro train or at bus stops. Instead of increasing the penalty, why not have excess officers transferred from the streets to

Although this is an admirable item within the initiative, why hasn’tD.C. officials address the very real problems caused by gentrification within the city by creating and supporting non-profit groupsfor families uprooted by gentrification?Thisis considered by many the main catalyst forthe tensions between residentsin the District, which in turn causes a spike in crime. You cannot solve a problem without addressing its origins. The sixth item in the “Safer, Strong D.C.” initiativefocuses onreducing unnecessary contact

between the community and police. This would ideally prevent unnecessary harassment by the police among community members. Cases of police brutality have often stemmed from excessive use of force for minor incidents. Because police brutality is a hotbutton issue in the nation right now. This item has the chance of being the most impressive and effective legislation on the “Safer, Strong D.C.” agenda. The last item on Mayor Bowser’s agendagives misdemeanor offenders the privilege to conduct their lives in a normal fashion until their trial. Offenders don’t have to spend large amounts of time in jail awaiting trial. This item seems to attempt to lesson the harshness of the criminal justice system on petty crimes- a much needed focal point in our criminal justice system. Overall the intentions of the “Safer, Stronger D.C.” initiative are good, but ultimately fail to address the roots of the problem within the D.C. community. Hopefully the Mayor will listen to the response of her constituents and adjust items on her initiative accordingly.

SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

NEWS

THE HILLTOP

FROM THE BATTLEFIELD TO THE CLASSROOM: THE STRUGGLES OF AN ARMY VETERAN STUDENT

Paul Holston

oppression of any type, create a nurturing and respectful environment for all members of the Howard family, it fails in uphold these values when it comes to veteran students here.

News Editor

t the age of 17, I decided to join the United States Army as a Public Affairs Specialist/Journalist. At 23, I was honorably discharged and began another exciting challenge:: earning my undergraduate degree. Last year, I became both a military veteran and a Howard man, but the struggle as a veteran student between the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) and Howard University has proven itself to be complicated and beyond frustrating. Both the VA and Howard University need to work together to restructure their respective systems,as this will provide a smoother transition for newly, enrolled veteran students and current veteran students like myself. Howard University and the military are, of course, two very different cultures. At Howard, the culture is academic with vast opportunities of quality education and ability to grow socially and professionally. The culture of the military, specifically the Army, is based on being mission orientated and having core values, discipline, high standards and organization. Although Howard has its own core values, including being dedicated to a search for truth, being free of

Upon arriving at Howard last year, with knowing the gist of what to expect systematically here, I took the time as a transfer student to stay below the radar to really observe my surroundings. I was well aware of the nationwide VA systematic failures, so I understood it would take time to acclimate myself and get things sorted out between the university and VA. By not being formally introduced to the Howard structure, having to go back and forth between the Administration Building and Service Center to make sure my documents are sent through proper channels, to subpar responses from departments within Howard University and the VA Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, many times I felt that I was reaching my breaking point. The miscommunication between the Howard VA department in the Office of Student Affairs, the student accounts department in Howard’s Financial Aid Office and the VA VR Counselor are inefficient and unacceptable not only for myself, but also for my fellow veterans who go through similar, if not, exact procedures..

There is no clear communication and timeliness between all of these parties... Overall, there is no formal structure currently for veterans here at Howard. Because of this, I, as well as other veterans I’m sure, would like to sit down with all parties and top administration to assist in identifying pinpoint inefficiencies within this system. Military veterans seldom walk around with an indicator of their service. After all, there are few differences between us and any of our colleagues. As students, we all attend this great university to get an education and a degree, but the only difference with military veterans is that we simply start later. For me, as a student at this university, I want to contribute in breaking down the communication barrier between veterans and the Howard community. By opening communication up between veteran students and civilians, this will allow for an easier transiting process for veterans and give the Howard community a in-depth insight. Howard has unveiled a great flaw within their system that is the total opposite of the well-structured, organized system within the military that has been embedded into my mind. I would like to assist in working together to create long-term solutions to the flaws within the system that we as veterans, and students alike, face at Howard.

BREAKING NEWS

BEYOND THE HILLTOP, ACROSS THE NATION: JUDGE DENIES MOTIONS TO DISMISS CHARGES, RECUSE MOSBY IN FREDDIE GRAY CASE (BALTIMORE SUN)

According to The Baltimore Sun, in a victory for city State Attorney Marilyn J. Mosby, a judge on Wednesday denied motions to dismiss charges against six Baltimore police officers charged in the arrest and death of Freddie Gray and to recuse Mosby’s office from the case. JUNIOR MISSING IN SOUTH AFRICA PRESUMED DROWNED (GW HATCHET) According to the GW Hatchet, a Georgetown University junior missing off the coast of South Africa is presumed drowned, his parents confirmed Tuesday. 19-year-old Nicholas Upton was last seen swimming in the East Cape Province on Sunday at about 10:30 p.m. local time. METRO ADVISORY FOR LABOR DAY (WMATA) According to a WMATA news release, on Labor Day, Sept. 7, Metro will operate service on the following schedules: the Metrorail system will open at 7 a.m. and close at midnight. Buses will operate on a Sunday schedule. Check bus timetables for details. 13-YEAR-OLD GIRL SHOT IN SW, DC AWAKE AND TALKING (WUSA9) From CBS-affiliated WUSA9, 13-year-old Taije Chambliss is awake, alert and talking after being shot on Sunday, during D.C. police’s “All Hands on Deck” initiative. She was walking home from the library where she had been doing homework when she was hit by a bullet meant for someone else. U.S. LAUNCHES SECRET DRONE CAMPAIGN TO HUNT ISLAMIC STATE LEADERS IN SYRIA (WASHINGTON POST) According to the Washington Post, the CIA and U.S. Special Operations forces have launched a secret campaign to hunt terrorism suspects in Syria as part of a targeted killing program that is run separately from the broader U.S. military offensive against the Islamic State, U.S. officials said.

A T I O N’

DC’S ULTIMATE HBCU REUNION

9.16 – 9.20

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

BUY TICKETS NOW!

$15 STUDENT TICKETS

AVA I L A B L E O N C A M P U S O N LY

WED 9.16 // 6:30PM // CAPITALE DC

SAT 9.19 // NOON // H STREET CORRIDOR, NE

TECHNOIR: The Innovators’ Classic

H Street Festival

THUR 9.17 // 7:30PM // LOCATION TBA

SUN 9.20 // 11:00AM // HOWARD UNIVERSITY RANKIN CHAPEL

AT&T Kickoff Rally

Chapel Service

FRI 9.18 // 1:00PM // HOWARD UNIVERSITY CRAMTON AUDITORIUM

SUN 9.20 // 11:00AM // BAR LOUIE

The Game Before The Game: Howard vs. Hampton Student Debate

#HashtagLunchBagDC

FRI 9.18 // 1:30PM // WALTER E. WASHINGTON CONVENTION CENTER

HBCU College & Career Fair with Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. FRI 9.18 // 4:00PM // RFK STADIUM FESTIVAL GROUNDS

Pepsi Fan Festival FRI 9.18 // 7:30PM // RFK STADIUM

AT&T Nation’s Football Classic HAMPTON VS HOWARD JOIN THE #CONVERSATION! nationsclassic

#RealHU #NationsClassic /nationsfootballclassic

NationsFootballClassic.com nationsfootballclassic

© 2015 NATION’S FOOTBALL CLASSIC is a registered trademark of Washington Convention and Sports Authority. The NATION’S FOOTBALL CLASSIC LOGO is a trademark of Washington Convention and Sports Authority. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners. The NATION’S FOOTBALL CLASSIC LOGO is copyrighted © 2015 Washington Convention and Sports Authority. © 2015 AT&T intellectual property. All rights reserved.

SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

VARIETY

THE HILLTOP

Fashion

MEANS BUSINESS

Jazmin Goodwin

Staff Writer

n Sept. 9, Elaine Mensah’s book “#TheFashionSource,” a comprehensive fashion directory for the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, will hit bookstores. Read the interview below to learn more about who she is and her work as an advocate for D.C. fashion. The “#TheFashionSource” launch party will be on Sept. 9, 2015 from 6-9pm at the Renaissance Dupont Hotel in Washington, D.C. To RSVP and pre-order, visit http://allthingsfashiondc.com/.

SOPE ALUKO: How did you become interested in fashion? ELAINE MENSAH: Sadly, there is no grand story! I have always approached fashion as a business and have been really drawn to that creative side. I will say fashion does run in my family, with my mother and grandmother who are seamstresses, but I never had any particular vision. S: What is your personal definition of fashion? E: Fashion is multifaceted. There’s the personal style component, which is where fashion determines what you wear in the morning and personal expression of

self. Fashion is simply an expression of who you are or who you want to be. S: What would you say are the strengths and weaknesses of the D.C. fashion industry? E: I started 10 years ago in the industry and we have made huge strides. There is more acceptance of fashionable people. Fashionable people can be seen as unintelligent compared to the button downed conservative on Capitol Hill. There is a stereotype that if you care a lot about what you look like, you are not smart. People now showcase their personality through style. That is encouraging.

S: In 2007, you founded SVELTE, LLC a creative and strategic fashion firm in Washington, D.C. What are some obstacles you have faced along the way as an African American businesswoman? E: It is not a racial thing, but you are constantly having to prove yourself. That is the nature of the business. It is a big industry but a small community. There are various points of entry but getting in is very difficult, regardless. Another impediment is that I had not properly self- branded. I was always comfortable promoting myself. I was truly naïve thinking I could separate the two. I was a little stubborn wondering why I had to define

AnD CREATIVE

my business. That is the beauty of SVELTE, LLC. We do it all. S: What three pieces of advice you would give to young entrepreneurs?

E: I would say first have a plan and set goals. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate like a 20-page business plan. I would then say establish your brand identity. I am extremely big on aesthetics. It is even as small as having a professional email address. Your email should be yourname@ whateveryourbusiness. com. Treat yourself as the professional you want others to treat you. Lastly, be passionate. Passion will get you through the down and dark times.

VARIETY

THE HILLTOP

SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

A REBEL WITHOUT A CAUSE Travi$ Scott’s “Rodeo” Feels Unfinished

Jazmin Goodwin

tone for the entire album, withT.I. calling Scott a “young rebel against the system” within the song. “Pornography” ends with powerful quote: “Let your ambitions carry you.”

With only four days before Travi$ Scott’s album “Rodeo” was to be released, Scott became the latest hip-hop artist to have fallen victim to the internet’s miraculous ability to get ahold of unreleased albums.

New and old listeners of Scott can expect to hear his notable auto-tune croons paired with the likes of his nearly juxtaposing hardcore, passionate raps. His verses detail the struggles of his come-up, his tumultuous relationship with his mother and the crazy lifestyle that comes with becoming famous within the music industry.

Staff Writer

Long awaited and anticipated by many hip-hop fans, the Houston rapper’s album takes listeners on a high energy, adrenaline filled ride into the mind of an artist coming to grips with the ups and downs of fame and success. After signing to Kanye West’s G.O.O.D. Music record label as a producer and T.I.’s Grand Hustle and EPIC Records as a music artist, Travi$ Scott’s debut album clearly includes the talents and influences of both T.I. and West. Despite Scott’s lack of lyricism, “Rodeo” is equipped with an elite line-up of guest features including fromYoung Thug, Kanye West, Future and The Weeknd. “Pornography” an interesting name for the album’s opening track, is narrated by T.I. and infuses the sounds of southern hip-hop with a beat reminiscent of Kanye West’s “New Slaves.” The track sets the

Although the cohesive body of work is finely polished and produced, listeners areleft with a feeling of unfinished product. “Rodeo”failed to meet the extremely high expectations set by Scott’s previous mixtapes “Days Before Rodeo” and “Owl Pharaoh.” “Rodeo” lacks a highlevel of lyricism listeners can draw meaning from, but proves to be an album perfect for vibing out and turning up too.

COURTESY PHOTO

SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

SPORTS

THE HILLTOP

REDSHIRT FRESHMAN QUARTERBACK GETS THE NOD FOR SEASON-OPENER

Jourdan Henry Staff Writer Head football coach Gary “Flea” Harrell has named redshirt freshman Kalen Johnson the starting quarterback for Saturday’s season-opener against the Appalachian State Mountaineers. Johnson will be following in the footsteps of two-time MEAC Player of the Year Greg McGhee, who now plays in the Canadian Football League for the British Columbia Lions. Although Johnson has never been under center at the college level, Harrell and offensive coordinator Ted White feel comfortable giving him the opportunity to start because of his leadership and knowledge of the game. However, the neophyte will be tested by a tough Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) opponent that finished third in the Sun Belt Conference last season. “I’m confident in him being thrown into

the fire. He’s an intelligent kid. He’s from Pearland, Texas- he’s played in a prestigious high school who is used to playing in big games.” White said. “But you can’t prepare for the atmosphere that will be in Appalachian State. So we definitely will rely on the older guys that are on the team, mainly our offensive line to get him through this moment.” Howard’s offensive line will shoulder the burden of protecting the team’s young quarterback and helping establish the rushing attack. The line is led by right tackle Toree Boyd and left tackle Josh Smith, both of whom were named to the Preseason All-MEAC Second and Third teams respectively. Also on offense, Johnson will be surrounded by several seniors at skill positions. Tight end Myles Williams was voted to the Preseason All-MEAC First Team, while leading receiver Matthew Colvin and running back Aquanius Freeman also return for their final season. On the other side of the ball, the Bison

will be tasked with slowing down a highpowered offense that averaged 35.7 points and ranked second among Sun Belt teams in rushing (241.8 yards per game) last season. The Mountaineers are led by running back Marcus Cox, who is coming off a season in which he rushed for 19 touchdowns and averaged 5.5 yards per carry. To go along with Cox, quarterback Taylor Lamb was the Sun Belt Freshman of the Year after setting school rookie marks for passing yards (2,381) and throwing touchdowns (17). “This team is very good as far as passing the ball, and we have (cornerback) Ken Russ, but we have a lot of guys in the secondary that still are unproven,” Harrell said. Howard’s secondary struggled mightily last season, allowing 14 touchdown passes over the course of the season and 204 passing yards per game on average. Starting opposite cornerback Kenneth Russ will be sophomore Travon Hunt, and senior Jacob Bennett and junior Craig Johnson will play safety.

While Kalen Johnson has been named the starting quarterback for the seasonopener, Harrell will continue to evaluate the position throughout the season. Senior quarterback Jamie Cunningham will not be able to play the first two games of the season because of a failure to meet NCAA requirements. Meanwhile, redshirt sophomore De’Vaun Johnson is still looking to prove himself in practice in order to earn playing time. “We still feel good about Jamie [Cunningham] and De’Vaun [Johnson], but right now only one quarterback can play,” Harrell said. “If Kalen [Johnson] goes in and performs well, and leads this team to victories…If he does a good job as far as controlling the environment and controlling the team, the tempo, then we’ll continue to go that route. But it’s still open for discussion, and he understands that.” The Texas native will lead the Bison into Boone, North Carolina his college debut on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. on ESPN3.

A LOOK AT WHO’S IN CHAPEL WELCOME #HU19

Members of the Bison Football Team stand during their Call to Chapel.

Mr. & Miss Howard Ms. Toni Jenkins and Mr. Garrett Williams join Dean Richardson for a moment after Chapel.

JOIN US FOR CHAPEL SERVICE SUNDAY AT CRAMTON, 11AM

SPORTS

THE HILLTOP

SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

DARRYL “CHOCOLATE THUNDER” DAWKINS

LEAVES MARK ON AND OFF THE COURT

Tobi Oladejo Staff Writer

Dawkins gained the love of basketball enthusiasts everywhere with his one of a kind charisma on and off the court. He was a raw talent and performed on the court with an energy that was unmatched by many of his opponents. Averaging 12.0 points and 6.1 rebounds over the course of his career, he would go on to become the third leading field goal percentage shooter in NBA history.

n Thursday, Aug. 27, 2015, the nation lost NBA star Darryl Dawkins to a heart attack. Dawkins died at a hospital in Allentown, Pennsylvania at the age of 58. After leaving high school, Dawkins was immediately drafted No. 5 overall into the National Basketball Association (NBA). Starting his NBA career with so much youth and talent, it was only a matter of time before he began to leave his mark on the league. Dawkins, with his numerous self-made nicknames, including Chocolate Thunder, Sir Dunkenstein and Sir Slam, electrified

fans with with his unprecedented dunks. Dawkins even went so far as to create names for his own dunks; some of his most

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rememberable dunks were the “Look Out Below,” the “Yo-Mama” and the “Rim Wrecker.”

Despite the fact that he suffered a rather unlucky amount of post-season losses throughout his career, his legacy as an outstanding player, backboard shattering showstopper and fantastic personality on and off the court, will live on with his fans and the greats that played alongside him. Dawkins is survived by his wife, Janice, and his children Dara, Tabitha, Nicholas and Alexis.

WHY WE SHOULDN’T FORGIVE HULK’S RANT

Jaylen Campbell Staff Writer

restling fan or not, most recognize Hulk Hogan, the legendary wrestling star of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). The former Hall-of-Famer, whose real name is Terry Gene Boella, has an impeccable resume: 12-time world champion ranked third all-time in terms of the combined length of his championship reigns, the longest reigning champion of the 1980s, the first man to win back to back Royal Rumbles, and the owner of two of the ten longest title runs in World Wrestling Foundation (WWF) and World Wresting Entertainment (WWE) history. Hogan’s iconic wrestling performance could not save him from scrutiny, whenthe transcript of Hogan’s racist rant in an unauthorized sex-tape was released by RadarOnline.com and The National Enquirer. The sex-tape, filmed in 2012 unbeknownst to Hogan, featured Hogan using the n-word among other things to describe the African American boyfriend of his daughter, Brooke “I mean, I’d rather if she was going to f–k some n—-r, I’d rather have her marry an 8-foot-tall n—-r worth a hundred million dollars! Like a basketball player!” Hogan said in the video. “I guess we’re all a little

racist. F–king n—-r.” Although the WWE has taken measures to distance themselves from Hogan by terminating his contract with the company and removing all references and images of him from their website, it’s shocking

showed little mercy to Sterling for his behavior and was quick to hang him out to dry. Hogan, on the hand, seems to be getting more sympathy from the mainstream press, despite making similar comments.

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what little reaction this has received in mainstream media. A year and a half ago, when a recording of Donald Sterling, then-owner of the Los Angeles Clippers, making similar remarks was leaked, there was an unquestionable and undeniable backlash towards Sterling’s hateful and racist comments. The media

Not only have media outlets given Hogan an opportunity to defend himself and his behavior, some go so far as to paint Hogan as a changed man who made a mistake years ago. Hogan’s likeability as a white celebrity has allotted him the ability to make awful, hate-filled comments without serious pushback from the media.

After his contract’s termination, Hogan made an emotional public apology on ABC News’ Good Morning America. We’ve seen how society will just tear down a black person who says anything that isn’t in line with what white society deems acceptable. Consider the Kanye West and Taylor Swift debacle during the 2009 VMAs. Although West used no racial slurs or disrespectful language towards Swift when he interrupted her acceptance speech, mainstream media seemed more horrified and disgusted with his behavior than they do Hogan’s. Why is West’s comments unforgivable, while Hogan’s racists rant is painted with sympathy? What’s worse is Hogan’s halfheartedly apologize to his fans, by coming up with an excuse to retroactively repair his image. It doesn’t matter how Hogan spoke when he was growing up. When those comments were made, Hogan was a grown man who is considered a wrestling icon by people of all color and creed. Why should he be allotted an excuse for his behavior? Although the WWE took the appropriate steps in dismissing Hogan from their program, it is high-time the mainstream media stop excusing a white celebrity’s inexcusable behavior, while demonizing black celebrities. Until the media forces white public figures to take ownership for their behavior, racist diatribe will remain an accepted part of our culture, particularly among our celebrities.