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

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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.