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Executive directors DeAnna McLeary and Na-Tae' Thompson began True Star in the fall of 2004 as four page newsletter with one journalism program and 17 students. They have since grown the organization to eight programs that employ 150 student apprentices and seven adult instructors who collectively produce a 44-page quarterly publication as well as teen events. True Star was born from a needs assessment completed by urban youth in Chicago. The results overwhelmingly indicated youth needed employment, basic literary skills, professional development, and wanted to be heard by their peers and the community at large. www.truestarfoundation.org Designed by Angel D'Amico-Bauer www.angeldamico.com
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2 TRUE STAR JR.
People think working at McDonald’s can’t get them anwhere. They say it’s a dead-end job. But do they know
that more than half of our owner/operators started off behind the counter? It’s true.
Keith Allen (above) is just one example of many McDonald’s success stories. Join us at any McDonald’s
location for National Hiring Day, on April 19, 2011 and see location for National Hiring Day, on April 19, 2011 and see for yourself. We believe in giving you the tools you need to
succeed, not reach a dead-end.
Visit www.mcdonalds.com/careers or www.mcstate.com for more information.
For more about Keith Allen’s story please visit bmoachicagoland.org.
TRUE STAR RADIO TRUESTARIS.COM TO DONATE TO TRUE STAR FOUNDATION, VISIT TRUESTARFOUNDATION.ORG
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE DIRECTORSDEANNA MCLEARYJ. NA-TAE’ THOMPSON
MANAGING EDITOREDGAR MOLINA
EDITORIAL COORDINATORSKATHY CHANEYVERONICA HARRISONKENYA NALLS
WEB CONTENT MANAGERRASHAAN MEADOR
ART DIRECTION DESIGN AND ILLUSTRATIONANGEL D’AMICO-BAUER
PHOTO COORDINATORDESHAUN ADAMS
SPECIAL PROJECTS MANAGERDESHAUN ADAMSPHILISTINE THOMPSON
PUBLIC RELATION & MARKETING OUTREACH SPECIALISTKIKANZA HARRIS
PLEASE LET US KNOW YOUR THOUGHTS ON TRUE STAR JR. MAGAZINE
CONTACT US:LETTERS TO TRUE STAR JR.1130 SOUTH WABASH, SUITE 302CHICAGO, IL 60605-2717
EMAIL TRUESTARJR@TRUESTARMAGAZINE.COM
EXPOSE’6 VIDEO GAMING TRENDS IN AMERICABy Nathan Bahadursingh7 TEEN MOM TESTIMONIES By Jaylah Roberts and Destinee Bronson8 TEEN PARTIES GONE WILD By LaRoyale Hunley
TALKIN’ NERDY9 IMPROVING CHICAGO’S SCHOOLS By Alexis Byrd9 SIDEBAR HIGH SCHOOL PREPARATION By Tyra White10 SUMMER READING RECOMMENDATIONS By Paige Flowers and Zariah Harris11 MY GRADES DON’T DEFINE ME By Nija Bradford and Alexandria Brock
SUMMER FASHION 201112 SUMMER IN THE CITY 16 CELEBS STYLING FOR SUCCESS By Tyria Stidhum, Ayanna Brock and Nydia Brock17 LESS IS MORE By Dominique Reed and Terryana Bonds
HOT OFF THE PRESS18 MINDLESS BEHAVIOR VISITS CHICAGO By Kennedy Katherine19 BIEBER FEVER By Natasha Jones20 KEKE PALMER ON THE RISE By Alexandria Holmes, McKinleyNelson, DayJahnae Weston22 YOUTH COMPLAINS ABOUT LIL WAYNE By Myeshia Shedd, Tashonda Towsend and Ayanna Racined23 THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT DIGGY AND WILLOW By McKinley Nelson and Christina Estes
4EVER YOUNG24 STEPS TO EXCEEDING GOALS By Latricia Clayborn25 ARE YOU A SOCIAL NETWORKING ADDICT? By Jada Beasley26 TOP 10 RESTAURANTS THIS SUMMER By Kyler Sumter and Lisa Wetzel
DEEPER THAN SKIN27 JUVENILE DIABETES By Nia Lackland
RISING STARS28 Q&A WITH JACOB LATIMORE By McKinley Nelson 29 Q&A WITH PATRICK NEWSON JR. By Taja Robertson30 Q&A WITH SHORTIE MAC By Zariah Harris31 Q&A WITH TRANELL BROWN By Taja Robertson
SCHOOL SPIRIT32 WOODSON’S GIRLS’ BASKETBALL CHAMPS By Taja Robertson33 LINDBLOM’S BOYS’ BASKETBALL CHAMPS By Joshua Chapman34 HENDERSON’S MAYOR DALEY BOOK CLUB By Jeanette Byrd
4 TRUE STAR JR.
CONTRIBUTORS
Paige FlowersZariah HarrisAlexandria HolmesNia LacklandJuJuan RobersonTyra WhiteNot Pictured: Alexandria Holmes Tyra White
Nathaniel BahadursinghNija BradfordJada BeasleyTerryanna BondsAlexandria BrockDestinee BronsonJoshua ChapmanJessica ClarkChristina EstesLaRoyal HunleyNatasha JonesDominique ReedJaylah RobertsKyler SumterLisa Wetzel Liliana ZavalaNot Pictured: Jenaye BeaversMcKinley Nelson
Tishona BostonAyanna BrockNadya BrockAlexis ByrdLatricia ClaybornTyria StidhumDayJahnae WestonNot pictured: Myeshia Studds
LINDBLOM MATH AND SCIENCE ACADEMY
HENDERSON ACADEMY
UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO CHARTER-CARTER G. WOODSON
TRUE STAR JR. 5
STUDENT EDITORS LINDBLOM MATH AND SCIENCE ACADEMY
MCKINLEY NELSONEDITOR IN CHIEF
UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO CHARTER-CARTER G. WOODSON
TAJA ROBERTSON
HENDERSON ACADEMY
JEANETTE BYRD
Message from McKinley
Welcome to True Star Jr. Our goal is to reach our peers with positive and fun messages, as we touch on all aspects of young teen life. The Spring 2011 edition is a collaboration between Lindblom Math & Science Academy, University of Chicago Carter G. Woodson and Henderson Academy. We are not high school students yet, but we face some of the same issues as we fumble our way through life. From parties getting out of hand to being defined by our grades, we live, we learn and we share with you. We thank the community for continued support of the magazine. Check out our latest issue…and enjoy your summer!
INSTRUCTORPolina Zionts
STUDENT ART DIRECTORAnshaunti Hillery
ATTENDANCE OFFICERMonique Archer
GRAPHIC DESIGN CONTRIBUTORS: SIMEON CAREER ACADEMY
APPRENTICESDevon BussellHassan ChildsTiAnna CoatsRayfield DrakeFred JonesHerbert CarterJawonte HallGarland Hennings
James HudsonMakayla JacksonShanni Newell-BrownPrince RulePrincess RuleSydney WetherspoonJesse WilliamsAndrew Wormley
FREELANCE INTERNSJoy HeardAnshaunti HilleryDarius HilleryMakayla JacksonDelvin McCrayPierre Seaton
AMERICA
EXPOSE’
BY NATHAN BAHADURSINGHLINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY
DESIGN IN COLLABORATION WITH HASSAN CHILDS, SENIOR
SIMEON CAREER ACADEMY
This much loved hobby we call gaming is
popular across the world, and especially in the
United States. Many Americans, mostly teens,
have been logging on more and more to video
games. Most of these games vary in style. For
example, there are some games that are mainly
fighting while there are games where one can
physically interact with the game.
Even though these games are very popular
with the youth scene, they do have the tendency
to be very distracting to teens in school. There
have been many reports of children not being
completely focused with their school work and
slacking off in order to play their games.
That is why it is important to balance the time
playing video games and school work. When
doing that, one can become more responsible
and learn to be more effective in life.
Video Gaming IN YOUNG
TRUE STAR JR. 7 TRUE STAR JR. 7
Here are three women, now all
different ages, who offered their testimonies
about becoming pregnant as a teen. Alyssa,
Erica and Vicky share their stories with hopes
of helping a teenage girl who may need
encouragement and know the real truth behind
being a pregnant teen…
1. How old were you when you got
pregnant?
Alyssa: 15
Erica: 17
Vicky: 15
2. Did you have an abortion, have it
Adopted, or keep your baby?
Alyssa: I am keeping her.
Erica: I kept him.
Vicky: I had an abortion.
3. What types of comments were made
about you, or were people supportive?
Alyssa: I am called a slut, a hoe, a whore, a
skank, and so many other terrible names.
Erica: Everyone was mostly supportive.
Vicky: Nobody could say anything because no
one knew I was pregnant.
4. Are you happy with your decision?
Alyssa: Yeah, I would have so many regrets if I
didn’t keep my baby, I definitely wanted kids but
not when I was 15, almost 16.
Erica: I’m so glad I kept my baby. He was
almost aborted, but I cancelled the
abortion appointment.
Vicky: Yes, I was not ready to be a parent. For
everyone who is going through this, just wait!
ADOPTION PARENTING
ABORTION
TEEN MOM Testimonies
BY JAYLAH ROBERTS AND DESTINEE BRONSONLINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY
8 TRUE STAR JR.
Most teens who go to parties are victims
of peer pressure and they get pressured into
doing things that they might not want to do. For
example, drinking alcohol and smoking can be
some bad behaviors happening at youth parties.
Teens also get out of control and try to fight each
other for petty reasons and then they also throw
drinks on each other, which makes others want to
fight. Some teens even go to parties just to
fight. They try to fight and jump out of their jeans
for the littlest things, like if someone looks at them
wrong, pushes them, steps on their feet, and if
someone talks to their boyfriend/girlfriend.
Their peers try to pressure them into doing a lot
of stuff that they don’t want to do and then most
of those teens go to counseling for it.
One place that is concerned about these teen
issues is SGA Youth and Family Outreach
Services. They reported serving 1, 366 clients
last year with an additional 1, 295 clients from
the ages of 13 years old to 19 years old. Teens
that go to SGA for help and advice usually go
for anger, lack of coping and conflict resolution
skills, lack of positive adult role models,
substance abuse issues, gang issues,
Teen Parties GONE WILDTeen Parties
GONE WILDinvolvement with the juvenile justice system,
school related issues, and advice because their
peers were pressuring them into doing something
they weren’t comfortable with. And most of the
pressure is happening at youth parties.
Mary, a counselor at SGA , said “A lot
of the youth in my programs smoke marijuana
more than anything else. We find that their
usage lessens as they improve on the areas
mentioned in and this happens a lot at young
people’s parties.”
Mary also said, “I think adults/ educators need
to do a better job of informing youth of the
negative effects of alcohol and substances in
order to better prevent youth from beginning.
This helps prevent peer pressure during parties
where young people are around each other.”
For young people, parties are meant to have a
good time. Negative behaviors at parties take
away from the fun. If one young person at a party
tries to pressure another young person into doing
something negative, this could ruin the fun. Being
positive with your peers is safer and smarter.
BY LAROYALE HUNLEY, LINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMYDESIGN IN COLLABORATION WITH GARLAND HENNINGS
SENIOR, SIMEON CAREER ACADEMY
TRUE STAR JR. 9
TALKIN’ NERDY
Many of us have wondered what has
happened to the Chicago Public Schools, and
if they are doing what they are supposed to do
in order for the children to be successful in the
“real” world. As a child, myself, I’ve wondered
and wanted to address the situation.
I sought out to find information and get my
questions answered from Mr. Syron Smith, who
is the administration for a global accounting
firm and the founder of a national anti-violence
organization.
True Star: What would you do to improve the
Chicago Public School system from Kindergarten
through high school?
Syron: I am actually working on a process in
which block by block we will get residents active
with each grade K-4 years in college. Every 16
block area will host 1 specific grade. Damen
to Monore from 55th to 58th will host 4th grade
only focus, while Hamilton Hoyne & Seeley
from 63rd to 66th will host 8th grade only. Every
block within these boundaries will submit a plan
to take some action to aid and assist that grade.
One block might raise money for calculators,
another block will do tutoring, and two blocks
will conduct science fairs to help the students.
The other part of this equation is that each
student within the boundaries will become
a mentor to the grade under him or her; an
example would be an 8th grader will become a
tutor for the 7th grader and a 5th grader would
mentor/tutor a 4th grader. Our plan is to do 20
Chicago zip codes.
True Star: If you were a teacher, what would
you do to help the students reach their goals?
Syron: As a teacher, I would help the student
join the block by block network in which they
will have work, recreation, and training or WRT
to conduct and ensure they all join a career club.
Also, as a teacher, I would work very closely
with the community leader responsible for these
career clubs.
True Star: How would you prepare the students
for college?
Syron: I would keep pushing them and
introducing them to different avenues to help
them become interested in college. I would also
encourage them to do more and to learn more in
every situation.
IMPROVING CHICAGO’S SCHOOLS BY ALEXIS BYRD, HENDERSON ACADEMY
Preparing for HIGH SCHOOLBY TYRA WHITE, UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO CHARTER-CARTER G. WOODSON
Getting ready for high school doesn’t start in
8th grade, it usually starts in 7th grade. Here
are a few things to do to prepare.
*Maintain good grades
*Talk regularly to the school counselor
*List the schools that match what you
want to do in college
*Schedule visits to your top three schools
*Ask to shadow a student at the schools
of your choice
10 TRUE STAR JR.
There may be days this summer when it
will be too hot to go outside. There may be some
days when you’ll be on punishment and can’t go
outside, listen to music or watch TV. (Let’s hope
that’s not the case, though.)
So, what do you do to not get bored? Open a
book and read!
HERE ARE A FEW BOOKS TO CHECK OUT:
A Girl Called Boy BY BELINDA HURMENCE
The Outside Shot BY WALTER DEAN MYERS
Bud, Not Buddy BY CHRISTOPHER PAUL CURTIS
When I Was Puerto Rican BY ESMERALDA SANTIAGO
Let the Circle Be Unbroken BY MILDRED D. TAYLOR
Chicken Soup for the Preteen Soul 2 BY MICHAEL T. POWERS
Toning the Sweep BY ANGELA JOHNSON
So B. It BY SARAH WEEKS
Models Don’t Eat Chocolate Cookies BY ERIN DIONNE
Any volume of Diary of a Wimpy Kid BY JEFF KINNEY
Summer reading RECOMMENDATIONSBY PAIGE FLOWERS AND ZARIAH HARRIS, UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO CHARTER-CARTER G. WOODSON
TRUE STAR JR. 11
My grades do not define me. So often
do adults (teachers, mentors, older siblings
and parents) in our society judge students
based off their grades, and most of the time
they’re dead wrong! Many teachers or parents
think that a student is a good child because
they have good grades but, in reality, this
same student could be drinking, partying, and
getting involved in other negative behaviors.
Just because someone excels academically
does not mean they have perfect behavior and
good habits. And just because someone does
not excel academically does not make it fair to
assume they’re bad.
“However, after more than one hundred
years of systematic research in the area,
there is still more uncertainty than certainty
about the extent to which cognitive and
noncognitive individual differences may relate
to an individual’s academic and work-related
performance.” This statement is in a study
conducted by Adrian Furnham and Tomas
Chamorro-Premuzic, two professors/scientists
who have studied this topic for most of their
lives. So my question is who gave teachers and
parents the right to define us by our grades?
Kaylen Herring, a 7th grader at Lindblom
Math and Science Academy, gets As and Bs,
but admits that she never studies and likes to
party. She claims when adults look at her report
card, they automatically assume she’s the
innocent little girl who always studies.
“I don’t like to be judged based off of my
report card,” said Herring. “Many adults
always assume they know me but I have a
different personality outside of school.”
However, Brea Burett, another 7th grader
at Lindblom Math and Science Academy, is
a C student but claims to study all the time.
Then, when adults look at her report card,
they automatically assume she just doesn’t try
hard enough.
Brea said “It is not fair, if I study hard why can’t
I be considered a good kid and a good student.”
Mr. Ray, Math teacher at their school, says he
doesn’t judge a student by their grades.
“As long as they show a desire to try and
improve and care about who they are as a
student, that is what matters,” said Mr. Ray.
MY GRADES DON’T DEFINE ME
BY NIJA BRADFORD AND ALEXANDRIA BROCKLINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY
DESIGN IN COLLABORATION WITH ANDREW WORMLEYSENIOR, SIMEON CAREER ACADEMY
SUMMER FASHION
WHAT’S HOT THIS SUMMER?
*ROCK YOUR SKINNY JEANS WITH HIGH TOP GLADIATOR SANDALS!
*LAYER YOUR T-SHIRTS AND MATCH THEM UP WITH SOME FIERCE SHADES!
*THROW ON YOUR HIGH TOP SNEAKERS WITH YOUR CUT OFF SHORTS!
TRUE STAR JR. 13
KEEPIN IT CONSERVATIVE!
*ANY COLOR POLO OR BUTTON DOWN SHIRT IS HOT FOR THE SUMMER WITH A PAIR OF KHAKIS. MATURE AND COOL LOOK FOR THE SUMMER!
*THROW IN A BRIGHT CARDIGAN SWEATER WITH YOUR FLORAL SUNDRESSES! YOU COULD TOSS OVER YOUR SHOULDERS FOR AN EVEN MORE CONSERVATIVE LOOK THIS SUMMER!
14 TRUE STAR JR.
TRUE STAR JR. 15
SUMMER FUN AT THE BEACH
16 TRUE STAR JR.
BY TYRIA STIDHUM, AYANNA BROCK, NYDIA BROCK, HENDERSON ACADEMY
for SuccessYoung people always talk about
different celebrities and how we spend so much
time and money looking like them. And it’s true;
most of us get our style ideas from our favorite
music videos and movies. But underneath the
fancy clothes, nice hair and flashy jewelry, we
need to look up to these people because they
are successful. They are living their dreams, and
that is what should inspire us the most. And here
are a few celebrities that inspire our style… and
our future goals.
Tyria Stidhum:
“It is evident that Beyonce is known for her
fabulous style. However, she has accomplished
so much in life as a performer and owner of her
own clothes line. She has shown herself to be a
business woman, and her style is beautiful inside
and out. Her styles are trend setting; you never
know what kind of outfit you’ll catch her in. But
she is my favorite celebrity because like her, I
want to exceed accomplishments and show to be
as determined as she has been. “
Ayanna Brock:
“Dancing has always been a passion of mine
because it is just what I love to do. So when
Ciara blasted on the scene, I immediately
related to her passion. Even though her style is
versatile, I think her passion for dancing makes
her a role model to youth. She is definitely a
celebrity with a unique swag and special style.
However, her talents on stage speak louder than
anything she wears.”
Nydia Brock:
“It’s not too often that we have young women
like Willow Smith in this generation
that has accumulated this much attention and still
stays focused on personal goals. Willow is the
celeb that I love because not only has she
achieved a lot in so little time, but she has shown
us that if you stay dedicated to your craft, you
can be successful. Her unique style is great, but
she rocks her accomplishments even better than
her clothes and hair.”
Celebs Styling
TRUE STAR JR. 17
Creativity can sometimes be taken too
far. So many girls simply do too much with their
appearance. Basically, they go out of their
way to be noticed by creating an overbearing
appearance for themselves.
Everywhere you go, you will most likely see at
least one person with bright weave, long weave,
inch too long nails and/or an outrageous,
tacky outfit. It becomes hard to understand how
people think it’s cute to look like a clown did
your hair, makeup, and dressed you. Your image
presented to others says a lot about you. Also,
image is so important in personal relationships.
“Others judge us on the image we portray,”
said April Weathers, a school counselor at
Lindblom Math and Science Academy.
Not only is it unprofessional and degrading to
go all out with fashion, it can be unhealthy. No
matter how clean you try to keep your acrylics,
there will always be some amount of dirt
under them. This dirt can enter your body when
your hands come in contact with any part of
your body. Also, tight sew-ins for our hair can
cause headaches and hair to fall out. Aside
from the headaches, which can impact daily
activities, there’s no need to risk your health
to look nice.
“Certain aspects of image are discovered as
young children. Predetermined images are in
television, stereotypes, and celebrities,”
said Weathers.
There are so many flaws in the images of young
girls and women today. If you don’t love and
respect your body enough to look presentable,
then you are not a true lady. Sometimes the
latest fashion trend isn’t what’s right for you.
Next time you go shopping or to the hair salon,
stop and think about what that outfit or hairstyle
says about you as a person.
Less is MoreBY DOMINIQUE REED AND TERRYANA BONDSLINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY
HOT OFF THE PRESS
The screams were so loud you could barely
hear the music. But when the curtains opened and
Mindless Behavior stood there, the kids started
jumping up and clapping too.
Roc Royal, Prodigy, Ray Ray and Princeton, or
popular new teen group Mindless Behavior, gave a
special concert for students at Pershing West school.
About 12 students got special treatment and sat in
the front row because they got good grades.
Mindless Behavior was on tour with Janet Jackson
and said this was their first trip to Chicago. After they
performed, a few students got hugs from the group.
“What is Mindless Behavior? It’s how we express
ourselves. We get to express ourselves in a mindless
way. So, are you guys mindless?” the group asked.
The answer: screams.
The guys, from L.A. and Philly, met two years
ago when they auditioned for the group and have
enjoyed every minute of it.
BY KENNEDY KATHERINE, ST. DOROTHY’S SCHOOLDESIGN IN COLLABORATION WITH ASHAUNTI HILLERY, JUNIOR, SIMEON CAREER ACADEMY
“We’ve toured with Justin Bieber, the Backstreet
Boys and now Janet Jackson,” the group said.
Working with Janet Jackson was very special to
them because one of the people that inspired each
member of the group was Michael Jackson.
Their song “My Girl” was just remixed with Ciara
and the guys told True Star Jr. they would love to
do a tour with Diggy Simmons and Willow Smith.
Mindless Behavior VISITS CHICAGO
Mindless facts:
RAY RAY: SIGN – CAPRICORN
FAVORITE COLOR – PURPLE
PRINCETON: SIGN – TAURUS
FAVORITE COLOR – GREEN
ROC ROYAL: SIGN – LEO
FAVORITE COLOR – BLACK
PRODIGY: SIGN – CAPRICORN
FAVORITE COLOR – RED
TRUE STAR JR. 19
Name: Justin Drew Bieber
Birthday: March 1, 1994 (age 17)
Birthplace: Stratford, Ontario, Canada
Justin Bieber is just your average teen. He likes
music, movies, and sports but most of all he likes
pulling pranks on people. Point blank, he’s just
like us!
Justin isn’t just a prankster; he is seen in his movie
as a sweetheart. He regularly donates what he
can to children’s charities and hospitals. When
he was young, his family didn’t have a lot of
money. According to a teen music site,
www.musicouch.com, Beiber said, “I didn’t have
a lot of money, and for me it’s about helping
people out that haven’t had an opportunity.”
A portion of his album sales goes to the
Children’s Miracle Network and a number of
children’s hospitals. For every concert ticket sold,
Bieber donates a dollar to the charity to help
build schools.
Justin is known to love and value all of his
fans. Dee Phillips, 13, says “I love his voice,
his hair and he’s cute. I love that he has
incomparable swag and confidence. He is so
talented and he can play several instruments,
sing, rap and dance”!
His fans have made him number two on Twitter
and number one in their hearts. However,
Bieber’s audience isn’t all nice. In his movie, a
girl jumped on the stage at one of his concerts.
Justin kept singing but security had their hands
full with trying to escort her off the stage. Fans
also throw things on the stage and Justin was
once hit with a water bottle. And over the past
years, death threats were sent to whoever Justin
was seen with or was reported dating. But he
always stayed positive and kept his passion for
what he does.
BY KENNEDY KATHERINE, ST. DOROTHY’S SCHOOLDESIGN IN COLLABORATION WITH ASHAUNTI HILLERY, JUNIOR, SIMEON CAREER ACADEMY
Mindless Behavior VISITS CHICAGO
BIEBER FEVERBY NATASHA JONES
LINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMYDESIGN IN COLLABORATION WITH
GARLAND HENNINGSSENIOR, SIMEON CAREER ACADEMY
22 TRUE STAR JR.
lilWAYNE
A HENDERSON STUDENT COLLABORATIONDESIGN IN COLLABORATION WITH MAKAYLA JACKSON
FRESHMAN, SIMEON CAREER ACADEMY
Lil Wayne’s MUSIC
YOUTH COMPLAINSABOUT
We are now living in a world where raunchy and explicit lyrics are the norm among our
generation. A Baltimore based group named “Watoto from the Nile” had enough of what they have
listened to and picked up a mic along with a video camera to take a STAND for what they believed in.
They took their issues to the source and the sisters Nia (10), Nya (9), and Kamaria (5) made “Open
Letter” for all to see. Here are some of our reactions to their bold reaction…
Tishona Boston
“These girls made a courageous step that I know changed a lot of people views on Lil Wayne’s lyrics
to his songs, including myself. At first, I would admit I loved the songs. But after
understanding what they meant and the effect they have on so many
young people, my views have changed. We, as young people need
to be more conscious of what and who we listen to, these young
ladies helped me see that.”
Nydia Brock
“Lil Wayne is one of my favorite rappers and I don’t think that
his lyrics mean to be hurtful to women or children like myself.
I think when he raps that he is talking about his life and what
he sees on a daily basis. He has a daughter; I know that he
loves her and would not disrespect her. The video that the
young girls made was good, but I don’t know if it should’ve
been directed just toward Lil Wayne but other rappers. I do
understand their point of view on how they feel.”
Myeshia Shedd
“I have been saying for a while now how Lil Wayne lyrics
can sometimes be a little too much, but because I am young
people don’t want to listen to me. I am happy that these
young ladies made this video. It shows that I am not the only
young person that feels this way, and it needs to be stopped.
We have a voice and I’m glad that they took a stand.”
TRUE STAR JR. 23
People may notice this kid from Run’s House, a reality
show of his family where his father (Rev Run) was the focus. Little did
you know, Daniel (Diggy) is following his father and uncle (Russell Simmons)
footsteps in pursuing a future in the music industry. So far, Diggy has dropped
2 mix tapes, and is looking to continue to release more songs to put in his
first album. And it’s just something about him…
BY MCKINLEY NELSON, LINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMYDESIGN IN COLLABORATION WITH MONIQUE ARCHERSENIOR, SIMEON CAREER ACADEMY
• Diggy is signed with Atlantic Records as a young rapper.
• Diggy’s full birth name is Daniel Dwayne Simmons.
• He has his own clothing line called “Space Age.”
• Diggy Simmons love to skateboard on his free time.
• Diggy says that he is best friends with teen singer Jessica Jarrell,
who is rapper Ja-Rule’s daughter.
• One of Diggy’s closest mentors is music artist Pharell.
There’s Something About
There’s Something AboutBY CHRISTINA ESTES-WYNEELINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY
• Willow’s desire to have such an interesting dress style
started at home when her parents let her dress herself at an
early age.
• Willow is a young ambassador for Project Zambia that
helps children orphaned by AIDS in Africa.
• Willow Smith’s favorite designers are Mariel Haenn and
Rob Zangardi.
• Willow names Billy Idol and Lady Gaga among her
music icons.
• Willow Smith’s favorite artist is Lady Gaga
• Willow is currently being homeschooled.
24 TRUE STAR JR.
4EVER YOUNG
Steps to Exceeding YOUR GOALS
BY LATRICIA CLAYBORNHENDERSON ACADEMY
How many people in your community have exceeded their goals? Well, in my
school, Henderson Academy, my principal, Ms. Ivy is one of those people who have. I
asked her what goals she has exceeded, and one of them is when she became principal.
Ms. Ivy gave us 6 steps that students could take to help them to exceed their goals.
The steps are as follows:
• Students need to read a book every dayto build up their vocabulary
• Students need to seek out help if they are havingtrouble with a particular subject so they can achieve
the grades that they want.
• Students need to research more on differenteducational topics to broaden their horizons in learning.
• Students need to study every night in order to beprepared for the next school day.
• Student need to be able to speak infront of an audience
• Students need to have a role model to helpthem as they seek out their occupations.
TRUE STAR JR. 25
My iPhone is to me as……..?
A. A Tee Shirt is to Paris Hilton
B. Money to Donald Trump
C. $20 to a homeless person
My Twitter is to me as…….?
A. Air to a fish
B. Botox to Dolly Pardon
C. Air in the atmosphere to humans
My television is to me as.....?
A. Light to the sun
B. A used mattress to a mattress company
C. Paint to an artist
My iPad is to me as……….?
A. A Celtics Jersey to a Lakers player
B. A book to a library
C. Football to Levi Smith
My laptop is to me as……..?
A. A rotten tomato to a chef
B. Colored wigs to Nicki Minaj
C. Sun to a plant
My radio is to me as…….?
A. The color black to a rainbow
B. A new crown to a queen
C. Basketball is to Lebron James
My iPod is to me as………..?
A. Shoes to a monkey
B. Blue lipstick and glitter to Ke$ha
C. A skateboard to Tony Hawk
Are You ADDICTED TO TECHNOLOGY?
My Facebook is to me as……?
A. A comb to Lil Wayne
B. Flowers to a florist
C. A surf board to a surfer
My email is to me as…………?
A. A basketball to snowboarder
B. Red lipstick to Betty Boop
C. Art to an Art Museum
My online games are to me as...?
A. A cheeseburger to a vegetarian
B. Rain to a rainforest
C. Peace to Martin Luther King, Jr.
If you got mostly As, you aren’t that
dependent on technology. You enjoy it in your
spare time, but have many more important
things to handle. If you got mostly Bs, you like
technology, but don’t LO VE it. You could go
a day or two without it and be fine. But, if
you got mostly Cs, YOU ’RE AN ADDICT. You
cannot live without technology in your life.
BY JADA BEASLEY, LINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY DESIGN IN COLLABORATION WITH JOY HEARD, SOPHOMORE, COLUMBIA COLLEGE
26 TRUE STAR JR.
Best Fast Food Places:
Portillo’s
- 100 West Ontario Street, Chicago
- Hot Dogs and Burgers
- Must be contacted for hours of establishment.
- Website: www.portillos.com
Harold’s Chicken Shack
- Location: 518 W Harrison St Chicago, IL
- Hours: Monday- Saturday:
10am – 10:30pm Sunday: 10 am- 10:30
- Most Ordered Dish: Chicken with mild Sauce
- Website: www.haroldschickenshack45.com
Pete’s Red Hot’s
- Location: 6346 Roosevelt Rd Oak Park, IL
- Hours: Mon- Saturday: 10am- 10:30pm
Sunday: 11am – 10:30pm
- Most Ordered Dish: Beef Hot dogs
- No Website Available
Chipotle Mexican Grill
- Location: 2000 N. Clybourn Ave
- Hours: Monday- Sunday: 11am- 10pm
- Most Ordered Dish: Chicken Burrito Bowl
- Website: www.chipotle.com
Al’s Beef
- Location: 1079 West Taylor Street, Chicago
- Must be contacted for hours of establishment
- Most Ordered Dish: Italian Beef
- Website: www.alsbeef.com
TOP 10 Summer RestaurantsTOP 10 Summer RestaurantsBY LISA WETZEL & KYLER SUMTER, LINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY
Best Places to Dine In:
Buffalo Wild Wings
-111 Chicago Ridge Mall #F15
Chicago, IL 60415
- Hours: Monday –Wednesday: 10am-1am
Thursday- Saturday: 10am-2am
Sunday: 10am-1am
- Website: www.buffalowildwings.com
Red Lobster
- Location: 5201 S. Pulaski Rd., Chicago
- Most Ordered Dish: Walt’s Favorite Shrimp
- Hours: Sun-Sat 11am-10pm
- Website: www.redlobster.com
Giordano’s
- Location: 9613 S. Western Ave
- Most Ordered Dish: Stuffed Pizza
- Hours: Monday- Thursday: 11am- 11pm
Friday- Saturday: 11am -12am
Sunday: 11am -11pm
- Website: www.giordanos.com
Beggar’s Pizza
-10314 s. Halsted Street Chicago IL, 60628
- Most Ordered Dish: Pizza
- Hours: Monday-Thursday: 11am- 10pm
Friday- Saturday: 11am- 11pm
Sunday: 12pm- 10pm
- Website: www.beggarspizza.com
Olive Garden
- Location: 7513 W Cermak Road
North Riverside, IL 60546
- Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 11am- 10pm
Friday- Saturday 11am- 11pm
- Most Ordered Dish: Chicken Alfredo
- Website: www.olivegarden.com
Summer fun in the city isn’t fun without
great food! A lot of times you want to go out to
eat and chill with your family. Other times you
just want to grab a quick bite and be on your
way. Want to know some good places to go?
Here they are:
28 TRUE STAR JR.
RISING STARS
Q & A withJACOBLATIMOREJACOB LATIMORE
Q & A with
BY MCKINLEY NELSONLINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMYBY MCKINLEY NELSONLINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY
Jacob Latimore is on the rise and his talents
stretch way beyond his years. He’s only 14,
and he’s already signed to Jive Records. He
loves to sing and says that growing up he was
always exposed to music at home. His father and
uncles are group members of the inspirational
group, The Latimore Brothers. It’s in his blood to
perform, and he’s no stranger to the stage.
His first song, “Best Friend,” was featured on
Radio Disney and he has a hit single called “Like
em All,” featuring Diggy Simmons. On his way
to the top, True Star Jr. caught up with him to talk
about his life as an up-and-coming teenage idol.
True Star Jr: How do you balance school
work and music?
Jacob Latimore: I take all of my classes online.
It’s really simple. Very easy to balance.
TS Jr: How was the experience of making
a song with Diggy Simmons?
JL: It was a great experience, actually. I happened
to be in town when we reached out and just when
I was about to leave town, we got the call and I
cancelled my flight. He is a really cool guy, and I
would like to work with him in the future.
TS Jr: How did your family react to you
wanting to be in the music industry?
JL: Actually, they weren’t surprised. Many in my
family are in the industry, so it wasn’t anything new.
TS Jr: Anymore teen collaborations
coming up soon?
JL: Yes, I would love to collaborate with Justin Bieber.
TS Jr: Who’s your favorite artist in
the game?
JL: Chris Brown, definitely. He’s killing the game
right now.
TS Jr: Thank you for your time and good
luck in the future.
JL: You’re welcome and thank you for having me.
TRUE STAR JR. 29
PATRICK NEWSON JR.
Q & A withQ & A withPATRICK NEWSON JR.
IIn the TV show “Chicago Code” there was a
kid who saw his father die in a shooting. He was
left homeless. Well, meet that kid, 13-year-old
Patrick Newson Jr., who actually lives in the
Chicago area.
True Star Jr.: When did you get
into acting?
Patrick Newson Jr.: When I was about nine-years
old I was watching Nickelodeon. I asked my
mom, “What if that was me on there?” She then
put me in my first acting class and I loved it ever
since. Watching all the other kids around my
age doing the stuff I know I’m capable of. I just
felt why not me.
TS Jr.: What roles have you played since
you got into the business?
PN: This is my first break I’ve ever had. This is a
great opportunity.
TS Jr.: How did you get the role?
PN: My agent called my dad and told me to go
to the audition. I walked in and read a few lines.
One thing I really had to do was cry a lot. Two
days later I got a call saying I got the part.
TS Jr.: What was the experience like?
PN: It was really fun. When we weren’t filming,
everyone was regular. People were smiling and
having a good time. When it was time to film,
they got serious.
TS Jr.: Who are your favorite actors:
PN: Will Smith and following him is Adam
Sandler. I think both are hilarious.
BY TAJA ROBERTSONUNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO CHARTERCARTER G. WOODSON
IMA
GES FRO
M TH
E CH
ICA
GO
CO
DE EPISO
DE - “W
ILD O
NIO
NS”
BY TAJA ROBERTSONUNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO CHARTERCARTER G. WOODSON
30 TRUE STAR JR.
His song “That’s Mackin’” is played on
the radio and he performed at the Big Jam
along with some big name celebrities. He even
has his own dance, the “Shortie Mac.”
True Star Jr. had a chance to sit down and get
personal with Shortie Mac.
True Star Jr.: How old are you and when
did you start performing?
Shortie Mac: I’m 12. I’ve been doing this for a
while. I’m the Freestyle Phenom. I was about
7-years-old when I started performing.
TSJr.: Where do you get your
motivation?
SM: My mom and dad motivates me. They told
me I can do anything I put my mind to.
TSJr.: How do you balance school and
your music?
SM: Education comes first and I’m an A and B
student. If I’m going to the studio, I make sure I
do my homework in class and after I leave the
studio I study.
TSJr.: How do you handle negativity?
SM: A lot of people will try to put you down,
even some adults. You just have to ignore it. I
can’t respond to it.
TSJr.: How was it performing at the Big
Jam concert?
SM: It was a blast. The other celebrities there
treated me on the same level as they were. I’ve
met Rick Ross, Waka Flaka, Soulja Boy, Ludacris,
Lloyd, Bobby V., John Blu, mostly everybody.
TSJr.: Is there anyone you want to team
up with?
SM: In this industry, you want to collaborate with
everyone because that’s more exposure.
Q & A withSHORTIE MACSHORTIE MAC
Q & A with
BY ZARIAH HARRISUNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO CHARTER-CARTER G. WOODSON
BY ZARIAH HARRISUNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO CHARTERCARTER G. WOODSON
36 TRUE STAR JR.
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