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 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.
2 TRUE STAR JR.
CONTENTS
EXPOSE’
RISING STARS
By Nathan Bahadursingh 7 TEEN MOM TESTIMONIES By Jaylah Roberts and Destinee Bronson 8 TEEN PARTIES GONE WILD By LaRoyale Hunley
By McKinley Nelson 29 Q&A WITH PATRICK NEWSON JR. By Taja Robertson 30 Q&A WITH SHORTIE MAC By Zariah Harris 31 Q&A WITH TRANELL BROWN By Taja Robertson
6 VIDEO GAMING TRENDS IN AMERICA
TALKIN’ NERDY
9 IMPROVING CHICAGO’S SCHOOLS By Alexis Byrd 9 SIDEBAR HIGH SCHOOL PREPARATION By Tyra White 10 SUMMER READING RECOMMENDATIONS By Paige Flowers and Zariah Harris 11 MY GRADES DON’T DEFINE ME By Nija Bradford and Alexandria Brock
SUMMER FASHION 2011 12 SUMMER IN THE CITY 16 CELEBS STYLING FOR SUCCESS
By Tyria Stidhum, Ayanna Brock and Nydia Brock 17 LESS IS MORE By Dominique Reed and Terryana Bonds
HOT OFF THE PRESS
18 MINDLESS BEHAVIOR VISITS CHICAGO By Kennedy Katherine 19 BIEBER FEVER By Natasha Jones 20 KEKE PALMER ON THE RISE By Alexandria Holmes, McKinley Nelson, DayJahnae Weston 22 YOUTH COMPLAINS ABOUT LIL WAYNE By Myeshia Shedd, Tashonda Towsend and Ayanna Racined 23 THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT DIGGY AND WILLOW By McKinley Nelson and Christina Estes
28 Q&A WITH JACOB LATIMORE
SCHOOL SPIRIT
32 WOODSON’S GIRLS’ BASKETBALL CHAMPS By Taja Robertson 33 LINDBLOM’S BOYS’ BASKETBALL CHAMPS By Joshua Chapman 34 HENDERSON’S MAYOR DALEY BOOK CLUB By Jeanette Byrd
PLEASE LET US KNOW YOUR THOUGHTS ON TRUE STAR JR. MAGAZINE CONTACT US: LETTERS TO TRUE STAR JR. 1130 SOUTH WABASH, SUITE 302 CHICAGO, IL 60605-2717 EMAIL TRUESTARJR@TRUESTARMAGAZINE.COM
EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS DEANNA MCLEARY J. NA-TAE’ THOMPSON MANAGING EDITOR EDGAR MOLINA EDITORIAL COORDINATORS KATHY CHANEY VERONICA HARRISON KENYA NALLS
4EVER YOUNG
WEB CONTENT MANAGER RASHAAN MEADOR
By Latricia Clayborn 25 ARE YOU A SOCIAL NETWORKING ADDICT? By Jada Beasley 26 TOP 10 RESTAURANTS THIS SUMMER By Kyler Sumter and Lisa Wetzel
ART DIRECTION DESIGN AND ILLUSTRATION ANGEL D’AMICO-BAUER
24 STEPS TO EXCEEDING GOALS
DEEPER THAN SKIN 27 JUVENILE DIABETES By Nia Lackland TRUE STAR RADIO
PHOTO COORDINATOR DESHAUN ADAMS SPECIAL PROJECTS MANAGER DESHAUN ADAMS PHILISTINE THOMPSON PUBLIC RELATION & MARKETING OUTREACH SPECIALIST KIKANZA HARRIS
TRUESTARIS.COM TO DONATE TO TRUE STAR FOUNDATION, VISIT TRUESTARFOUNDATION.ORG
CONTRIBUTORS UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO CHARTER-CARTER G. WOODSON
Paige Flowers Zariah Harris Alexandria Holmes Nia Lackland JuJuan Roberson Tyra White Not Pictured: Alexandria Holmes Tyra White
LINDBLOM MATH AND SCIENCE ACADEMY
HENDERSON ACADEMY
Nathaniel Bahadursingh Nija Bradford Jada Beasley Terryanna Bonds Alexandria Brock Destinee Bronson Joshua Chapman Jessica Clark Christina Estes LaRoyal Hunley Natasha Jones Dominique Reed Jaylah Roberts Kyler Sumter Lisa Wetzel Liliana Zavala Not Pictured: Jenaye Beavers McKinley Nelson
Tishona Boston Ayanna Brock Nadya Brock Alexis Byrd Latricia Clayborn Tyria Stidhum DayJahnae Weston Not pictured: Myeshia Studds
4 TRUE STAR JR.
STUDENT EDITORS
LINDBLOM MATH AND SCIENCE ACADEMY
MCKINLEY NELSON EDITOR IN CHIEF
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!
UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO CHARTERCARTER G. WOODSON
TAJA ROBERTSON
HENDERSON ACADEMY
JEANETTE BYRD
GRAPHIC DESIGN CONTRIBUTORS: SIMEON CAREER ACADEMY INSTRUCTOR Polina Zionts STUDENT ART DIRECTOR Anshaunti Hillery ATTENDANCE OFFICER Monique Archer
APPRENTICES Devon Bussell Hassan Childs TiAnna Coats Rayfield Drake Fred Jones Herbert Carter Jawonte Hall Garland Hennings
James Hudson Makayla Jackson Shanni Newell-Brown Prince Rule Princess Rule Sydney Wetherspoon Jesse Williams Andrew Wormley
FREELANCE INTERNS Joy Heard Anshaunti Hillery Darius Hillery Makayla Jackson Delvin McCray Pierre Seaton TRUE STAR JR. 5
EXPOSE’
Video Gaming IN YOUNG
AMERICA BY NATHAN BAHADURSINGH LINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY DESIGN IN COLLABORATION WITH HASSAN CHILDS, SENIOR SIMEON CAREER ACADEMY
T
his 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.
TEEN MOM Testimonies BY JAYLAH ROBERTS AND DESTINEE BRONSON LINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY
A
DO PT I
ON
H
ere 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?
R A P AB
EN
OR TI
N TI
G
ON
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.
Alyssa: 15 Erica: 17 Vicky: 15
4. Are you happy with your decision?
2. Did you have an abortion, have it Adopted, or keep your baby?
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!
Alyssa: I am keeping her. Erica: I kept him. Vicky: I had an abortion.
Alyssa: Yeah, I would have so many regrets if I didn’t keep my baby, I definitely wanted kids but
TRUE STAR JR. 7
Teen Parties GONE WILD
M
BY LAROYALE HUNLEY, LINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY DESIGN IN COLLABORATION WITH GARLAND HENNINGS SENIOR, SIMEON CAREER ACADEMY
ost 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,
8 TRUE STAR JR.
involvement 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.
IMPROVING
TALKIN’ NERDY
CHICAGO’S SCHOOLS
M
BY ALEXIS BYRD, HENDERSON ACADEMY
any 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.
Preparing for
HIGH SCHOOL
BY 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 TRUE STAR JR. 9
Summer reading RECOMMENDATIONS
T
BY PAIGE FLOWERS AND ZARIAH HARRIS, UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO CHARTER-CARTER G. WOODSON
here 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
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 BELINDA HURMENCE
BY SARAH WEEKS
The Outside Shot
Models Don’t Eat Chocolate Cookies
BY WALTER DEAN MYERS
Bud, Not Buddy BY CHRISTOPHER PAUL CURTIS 10 TRUE STAR JR.
BY ERIN DIONNE Any volume of Diary of a Wimpy Kid BY JEFF KINNEY
MY GRADES DON’T DEFINE ME
M
BY NIJA BRADFORD AND ALEXANDRIA BROCK LINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY DESIGN IN COLLABORATION WITH ANDREW WORMLEY SENIOR, SIMEON CAREER ACADEMY
y 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. TRUE STAR JR. 11
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!
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!
TRUE STAR JR. 13
14 TRUE STAR JR.
SUMMER FUN AT THE BEACH TRUE STAR JR. 15
Celebs Styling
for Success Y
BY TYRIA STIDHUM, AYANNA BROCK, NYDIA BROCK, HENDERSON ACADEMY
oung 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. “ 16 TRUE STAR JR.
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.”
Less is More BY DOMINIQUE REED AND TERRYANA BONDS LINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY
C
reativity 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. TRUE STAR JR. 17
HOT OFF THE PRESS
Mindless Behavior VISITS CHICAGO
BY KENNEDY KATHERINE, ST. DOROTHY’S SCHOOL DESIGN IN COLLABORATION WITH ASHAUNTI HILLERY, JUNIOR, SIMEON CAREER ACADEMY
T
he 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.
“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.
Roc Royal, Prodigy, Ray Ray and Princeton, or popular new teen group Mindless Behavior, gave a special concert for students at Pershing West school. Their song “My Girl” was just remixed with Ciara and the guys told True Star Jr. they would love to About 12 students got special treatment and sat in do a tour with Diggy Simmons and Willow Smith. 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.
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
BIEBER FEVER BY NATASHA JONES LINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY DESIGN IN COLLABORATION WITH GARLAND HENNINGS SENIOR, SIMEON CAREER ACADEMY
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.
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.”
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. TRUE STAR JR. 19
YOUTH COMPLAINS ABOUT
Lil Wayne’s
MUSIC
W
A HENDERSON STUDENT COLLABORATION DESIGN IN COLLABORATION WITH MAKAYLA JACKSON FRESHMAN, SIMEON CAREER ACADEMY
e 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.” 22 TRUE STAR JR.
There’s Something About BY MCKINLEY NELSON, LINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY DESIGN IN COLLABORATION WITH MONIQUE ARCHER SENIOR, SIMEON CAREER ACADEMY
P
eople 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… • 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 BY CHRISTINA ESTES-WYNEE LINDBLOM 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.
TRUE STAR JR. 23
4EVER YOUNG
Steps to Exceeding
YOUR GOALS BY LATRICIA CLAYBORN HENDERSON ACADEMY
H
ow 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 day to build up their vocabulary • Students need to seek out help if they are having trouble with a particular subject so they can achieve the grades that they want. • Students need to research more on different educational topics to broaden their horizons in learning. • Students need to study every night in order to be prepared for the next school day. • Student need to be able to speak in front of an audience • Students need to have a role model to help them as they seek out their occupations. 24 TRUE STAR JR.
Are You ADDICTED
TO TECHNOLOGY? BY JADA BEASLEY, LINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY DESIGN IN COLLABORATION WITH JOY HEARD, SOPHOMORE, COLUMBIA COLLEGE
My iPhone is to me as……..?
My Facebook is to me as……?
A. A Tee Shirt is to Paris Hilton B. Money to Donald Trump C. $20 to a homeless person
A. A comb to Lil Wayne B. Flowers to a florist C. A surf board to a surfer
My Twitter is to me as…….?
My email is to me as…………?
A. Air to a fish B. Botox to Dolly Pardon C. Air in the atmosphere to humans
A. A basketball to snowboarder B. Red lipstick to Betty Boop C. Art to an Art Museum
My television is to me as.....?
My online games are to me as...?
A. Light to the sun B. A used mattress to a mattress company C. Paint to an artist
A. A cheeseburger to a vegetarian B. Rain to a rainforest C. Peace to Martin Luther King, Jr.
My iPad is to me as……….?
If you got mostly As, you aren’t that
A. A Celtics Jersey to a Lakers player B. A book to a library C. Football to Levi Smith
dependent on technology. You enjoy it in your spare time, but have many more important things to handle. If you got mostly Bs, you like technology, but don’t LO VE it. You could go
My laptop is to me as……..?
a day or two without it and be fine. But, if
A. A rotten tomato to a chef B. Colored wigs to Nicki Minaj C. Sun to a plant
you got mostly Cs, YOU ’RE AN ADDICT. You cannot live without technology in your life.
My radio is to me as…….?
A. The color black to a rainbow B. A new crown to a queen C. Basketball is to Lebron James My iPod is to me as………..?
A. Shoes to a monkey B. Blue lipstick and glitter to Ke$ha C. A skateboard to Tony Hawk
TRUE STAR JR. 25
TOP 10 Summer Restaurants S
BY LISA WETZEL & KYLER SUMTER, LINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY
ummer 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: 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 26 TRUE STAR JR.
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
RISING STARS
Q &A with JACOB LATIMORE
BY MCKINLEY NELSON LINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY
J
acob 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? 28 TRUE STAR JR.
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.
IMAGES FROM THE CHICAGO CODE EPISODE - “WILD ONIONS”
Q &A with
PATRICK NEWSON JR. BY TAJA ROBERTSON UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO CHARTER CARTER G. WOODSON
I
In 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.
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?
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.
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.: How did you get the role?
TS Jr.: Who are your favorite actors:
PN: My agent called my dad and told me to go to the audition. I walked in and read a few lines.
PN: Will Smith and following him is Adam Sandler. I think both are hilarious. TRUE STAR JR. 29
Q &A with SHORTIE MAC
BY ZARIAH HARRIS UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO CHARTER CHARTERCARTER G. WOODSON
H
is 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.”
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?
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.
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?
TSJr.: Where do you get your motivation?
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.
SM: My mom and dad motivates me. They told me I can do anything I put my mind to.
TSJr.: Is there anyone you want to team up with?
TSJr.: How do you balance school and your music?
SM: In this industry, you want to collaborate with everyone because that’s more exposure.
30 TRUE STAR JR.
36 TRUE STAR JR.