True Star Junior Winter 2018

TRUE STAR Foundation A LEADER IN YOUTH PROGRAMS

Our Purpose TO INSPIRE DREAMS SO THAT YOUNG PEOPLE CAN FIND THEIR VOICE, CHOOSE THEIR PATH, AND PREPARE FOR LIFE.

TRUE STAR FOUNDATION

Our Mission

The True Star Foundation’s mission is to demonstrate healthy transitions for youth coming into early adulthood by exposing them to real world experiences in the workforce through the development of their own media and being an intricate part of the strategic direction and overall business operations of the organization.

Our Work

True Star is a youth work collaborative that amplifies youth voice through producing content for True Star Magazine, True Star Jr. Magazine, The Park Magazine, True Star Online, True Star Media TV, and True Star Radio.

Our Impact

• True Star has provided on-the-job training for over 3,000 youth since its inception.

• The vast majority of True Star students (70 percent) reported that their team-working, oral communication, researching, problem-solving, writing skills, as well as their confidence and ability to do other schoolwork, improved as a result of True Star’s programs.

• In 2016, True Star provided 600 work opportunities that paid out $200,000 in stipends and youth pay.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Board President - LaTonya Wilkens Director Talent Management, University of Illinois Business School Treasurer -Giuseppe Commodaro Director Strategy & Execution - CME Group Secretary - Mia Nelson Sr. Analyst, Baxter David Douglas Founder & CEO – Yolobe, Inc. Leslie A. Hairston Alderman, Fifth Ward Sean Harden Non-Profit Consultant David Nichols Americas Leader - EY Malcolm Weems - Senior Advisor Public Policy and Regulation, Dentons LaTonya Wilkens Director Talent Management, University of Illinois Business School Sharming Scott-Nathan Human Resources Director, Fox Television Stations

Thank You To Our Major Partners

TRUESTARFOUNDATION.ORG

TRUESTARIS.COM

YOUTUBE.COM/TRUESTARMEDIATV

To donate visit truestarfoundation.org or send check payable to True Star Foundation - 1130 South Wabash - Suite 302 - Chicago, IL 60605 For Advertising Inquires email info@truestarmagazine.com or call 312.588.0100

CONTENTS EXPOSE’

4EVER YOUNG

6: NEWSFLASH! RUMORS HURT BY ALISHA BUTLER AND ARSHWANA BROWN, KELLAR MIDDLE SCHOOL, ROBBINS, IL 7: FRIENDS NO MORE BY KAMARI CRANSHAW, ATLANTA, GA 8: APPRECIATE WHAT YOU HAVE BEFORE IT'S GONE BY MARIAH STEVENS, KELLAR MIDDLE SCHOOL, ROBBINS, IL 9: DOING CHURCH DIFFERENTLY BY LAUREN FRIERSON, ATLANTA, GA

25: KING ROSCOE’S LIT LIST BY TRUE STAR STAFF 26: ADVICE FOR BULLIES BY JAILA MABRY, KELLAR MIDDLE SCHOOL, ROBBINS, IL 27: ARTISTIC HOBBIES OF ATLANTA BY KRISTIN GRACE ROBINSON, ATLANTA, GA 28: STOP MULTI-TASKING! BY KAYLA HOLLOWAY, MORGAN PARK HS, CHICAGO, IL 29: JUNK FOOD 101 BY KAYLA HOLLOWAY, MORGAN PARK HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO, IL

TALKIN’ NERDY

30-31: NATIONWIDE HOOPING AT THE CHICAGO ELITE CLASSIC BY JADA DANIEL, GWENDOLYN BROOKS CP, CHICAGO, IL

10: THE GREAT AND WONDERFUL HANNAH ALPER BY MAKAYLA IDELBURG, LINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY, CHICAGO, IL 11: BOOKS YOU SHOULD BE READING ON WATTPAD BY ALISHA BUTLER, KELLAR MIDDLE SCHOOL, ROBBINS, IL 12: MUST-TRY TOP-SELLING VIDEO GAMES BY DARYA NELSON, KELLAR MIDDLE SCHOOL, ROBBINS, IL 13: GIRLS’ ENTREPRENEUR EXPO BY KAYLA HOLLOWAY, MORGAN PARK HS, CHICAGO, IL

HOT OFF THE PRESS 14: THE FIGHTER: VARA JAMES HOPKINS BY MAKAYLA IDELBURG, LINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY, CHICAGO, IL 15: GENERATION GENESIS BY KAYLA HOLLOWAY, MORGAN PARK HS, CHICAGO, IL 16: STREET BUD BRINGS HIS OWN STYLE TO “THE RAP GAME” BY TYME ANDERSON, CHICAGO, IL 18: JIGGA: THE FUTURE OF RAP BY MAKAYLA IDELBURG, LINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY, CHICAGO, IL 19: GETTING TO KNOW DAAN CREYGHTON

BY KAMREN CALE, KENWOOD ACADEMY, CHICAGO, IL

FASHION 20: 2018 SHOW-STOPPING STYLE FORECAST 24: JASIR’S TOP 5 FAVES, JASIR BAILEY, KENWOOD ACADEMY, CHICAGO, IL

KEEPIN' SCORE

CREATIVE & CULTURE CORNER 32: A-TOWN IS MY TOWN BY DAYA BROWN, ATLANTA, GA 33: DO YOU SEE ME? BY JAILA MABRY, KELLAR MIDDLE SCHOOL, ROBBINS, IL 34: YUKI (ART) BY KAYLEE “KIWI” RUTHERFORD, PARKER JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL, FLOSSMOOR, IL 35: ELLA (ART) BY BRIASHA RICHARDSON, KELLAR MIDDLE SCHOOL, ROBBINS, IL 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 SHERMAN & J. NA-TAE’ THOMPSON MANAGING EDITOR MARTI PARHAM EDITORIAL INSTRUCTOR NYKEYA WOODS JAMILAH SHADEED (ATLANTA) WEB CONTENT & MARKETING MANAGER JOI MITCHELL WEB CONTENT ASSISTANT HENRY COLLINS ART DIRECTION DESIGN AND ILLUSTRATION ANGEL D’AMICO-BAUER PROMOTIONS MANAGER DESHAUN ADAMS

TRUESTARIS.COM TO DONATE TO TRUE STAR FOUNDATION, VISIT TRUESTARFOUNDATION.ORG

CONTRIBUTORS Kellar Middle School, Robbins, IL

Alisha Butler

Briasha Richardson

Mariah Stevens

Jaila Mabry

Kenwood Academy, Chicago, IL

Kamren Cale

Darya Nelson

Arshawna Brown

True Star Alumni Chicago , IL

Tyme Anderson

Lindblom Math & Science Academy, Chicago, IL

Makayla Idelburg

YOUTH FASHION MUSIC TRUESTARIS.COM

Morgan Park Academy, Chicago, IL

Kayla Holloway

Parker Junior High School, Flossmoor, IL

Kaylee "Kiwi" Rutherford not pictured: Kamari Cranshaw Campbell Middle School, Atlanta, GA Lauren Frierson Lovejoy High School, Atlanta, GA Kristin Grace Robinson Sandtown Middle School, Atlanta, GA Jada Daniel Gwendolyn Brooks College Prep, Chicago, IL Daya Brown The Mainstreet Academy, Atlanta, GA

URBAN CULTURE BLOG

EXPOSE’

NEWS FLASH!

RUMORS HURT

BY ALISHA BUTLER & ARSHWANA BROWN, KELLAR MIDDLE SCHOOL, ROBBINS, IL

R

umors. You might be thinking, “Oh rumors. They're just little lies they don’t affect anyone.” NEWS FLASH! They do. Making up all these “little lies” just to get a reaction? Think again. Rumors hurt, and you can’t take them back. And with easy accessibility to Snapchat, Instagram and text messages, rumors have become harder to disprove.

“Bad rumors can lower self-esteem and make [people] feel bad about themselves,” said 13-year-old Charles Parrish Jr. “Even though the rumors could be true, you just can’t go around telling people’s business like that. They gave you trusted information and you just tell everyone what they told you; that’s not right.” Eighth grader Jordan Jones agreed with Parrish. “Rumors

“I feel as though she regrets surrounding herself with people who aren’t her true friends,” Jones said. Parrish piggybacked and added, “I think she feels disowned because she trusted the person to hold her secret… Also, maybe she feels betrayed by the way they turned on her.”

Rumors are horrible things that should never be started. Don’t let them change you or hurt you because they are little white lies that people use to try and bring you down. According to cleverism.com, “Rumors also spread speedily in environments that do not discourage them. The more attention a rumor gets, the more widespread it becomes.”

Jayden Phillips, 13, believes that once the gossip begins to take on a life of its own it becomes too challenging to do anything about it. “If you do

make whoever the rumor is about feel bad.”

get rumors spread around, even if they are false, it's hard to make the rumors stop because at that point no one cares what you have to say about it.”

At Kellar Middle School a rumor was going around about a girl. Both Parrish and Jones heard the rumor and weighed in on how they believed the preteen involved felt.

The next time you feel the urge to help spread a rumor about somebody, make the choice to not participate in the drama. Don’t be that person that brings pain to someone else.

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Friends No More

BY KAMARI CRANSHAW, CAMPBELL MIDDLE SCHOOL, SMYRNA, GA

A

fter graduating from elementary to middle school, I guess I didn’t understand how much my school days were about to change, that is until the first day of school after the summer break. Although me and a few of my friends from elementary attended a summer preparation camp for sixth graders, disappointment quickly rose as I discovered on the first day of school, that I still wasn’t prepared for some of the unpleasant surprises on the horizon.

During camp we toured the school, but I still got lost on the first day. We also learned how to open our combination locks, socialized, and played fun icebreaker games, but we remained in the same class with the same teachers and students all day, which is probably why I forgot what reality was about to present.

On the first day, everything that I learned and experienced in camp went out the window.

I almost got lost looking for my class, it took several attempts to unlock my combination, and the halls immediately became jammed with students after each period.

To make matters worse, when I finally arrived to my first class, I discovered none of my friends were there, which made me a little worried.

Later on, I ran into Montiana, a close elementary school friend. She showed me her schedule and we had class together! This made me feel much better. But of course, when I arrived to the class, I

was disappointed to discover that our seats were not near each other. What a bummer! As the day progressed I discovered that I didn’t share any classes with any of my besties.

The following week got even more real. When I arrived to the class I shared with Montiana, she was not there. She had received a schedule change and had left me alone with all these strange people. That’s when reality kicked in: things were going to be a lot different in middle school. I quickly realized that it’s ok. One of the best changes is that I am performing better academically than I was in elementary. I am on the honor roll and have been more focused on my studies. So I guess for me, “Friends No More,” also means “Play No More!” Sometimes, change is good!

TRUE STAR JR. 7

Appreciate WHAT YOU

HAVE BEFORE IT’S GONE

BY MARIAH STEVENS, KELLAR MIDDLE SCHOOL, ROBBINS, IL

E

veryone reading this has had a point in life where they were ungrateful or didn’t appreciate something small. But you know that you should hold on to those things instead of throwing them aside because when they’re gone, you’ll realize what you have lost.

“SPREADING GRATITUDE ISN’T ABOUT RECEIVING A THANK YOU. IT’S ABOUT SHOWING THAT PERSON THAT THEY ARE IMPORTANT TO YOU." -JORDAN NYGREN

“Spreading gratitude isn’t about receiving a thank you. It’s about showing that person that they are important to you. The random ‘thank you’ you do get, is just the cherry on top,’’ tweeted Jordan Nygren (@jordann_nygren) using “#appreciation.”

Think about those simple things you may use on a daily basis like your cell phone. Now image your day without being able to post to Snapchat, send text messages, or play a game. We take things for granted on a daily basis and have the thought that whenever we need something it’ll be there. But what if it wasn’t? How would you feel then?

In a tweet posted “#gratitude,” Michelle Smart (@principalsmart) said, “Take a step back and go to the track. Try to remember your passions and show #gratitude for the important things.

Reflect on the next step and start again.”

There are health benefits to being grateful, according to forbes.com. “Gratitude improves psychological health. Gratitude reduces a multitude of toxic emotions, ranging from envy and resentment to frustration and regret.”

8 TRUE STAR JR.

Just remember there are people less fortunate than you who are still happy. People don’t realize what they have because they are out there looking for something better. People constantly want something more, something new, but sometimes the most valuable things are what you had all along. Just because something new isn’t happening for you right now does not mean that it won't happen at all. Joy and happiness doesn't come to those who fail to see what they already have. If that fails, try remembering this quote: “You knew you had it, you just didn't think you would lose it.”

DOING CHURCH

Differently

BY LAUREN FRIERSON, LOVEJOY HIGH SCHOOL, ATLANTA, GA

A

t Impact Church, one of the Outreach Top 100 Fastest-Growing Churches in America, we are committed to “doing church differently” not just for adults but for all ages, grades, and stages of life. Welcome to Maximum Impact, the Youth Ministry of Impact Church in East Point, Ga. In Maximum Impact, comprised of middle school and high school students, we are encouraged to be who we are. We’ve taken the concepts of modern technology and put a fun spin on it in our weekly youth worship and events. We have fun online polls, “In the Know” video announcements, social media challenges, game time, icebreakers and themed sermon series. Our students literally run the show from planning worship to hosting, directing, creating graphics, operating media graphics, audio and lights. These all help us to get to know each other and strengthen our bond each time we go to church.

Last year we started monthly kickbacks, which are just parties and game nights. These kickbacks allow Maximum Impact students to hang out and connect outside of our worship experiences.

We are encouraged and taught that you can

have fun while taking your relationship with God seriously. In November we had probably the best kickback ever, a big Mystery Kickback. It was $20, which included transportation on a party bus, food and a hat.

The kickback ended up being a photo scavenger hunt and tour of some of Atlanta’s hottest and most notable attractions. We went to the brandnew Mercedes Benz stadium, CNN Center, Centennial Olympic Park (some of us even played in the fountain of rings) and the World of Coke. Then we had dinner at an Atlanta classic, The Varsity, which is the largest drive-in fast food restaurant in the world. We continued our tour exploring graffiti at The Krog Street Tunnel then ended the night at the birth home of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. where we sang “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Each place had a different purpose and left a different mark on each one of us. I love my church because this was a great way to get us together and just let us hang out having fun.

We, the youth of Impact Church, will continue to do church differently to keep our students together and invite more to be a part of the community.

TRUE STAR JR. 9

TALKING NERDY

The Great AND WONDERFUL Hannah Alper

BY MAKAYLA IDELBURG, LINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY, CHICAGO, IL

H

annah Alper is a 14-year-old public speaker, author, social activist, and blogger or in other words an ideal female president. At age 9, Alper was introduced to the cruel truths of the world such as deforestation and homelessness, and decided it was time to make a change.

She discovered WE, an organization which empowers change for the world, and is now an ambassador.

WE has a number of fundraisers and Alper was determined to get her school involved with the “WE Create Change” coin drive, a campaign to raise $25 in pennies for clean water in developing communities.

“I convinced my principal to do it and my very first speaking engagement was at an assembly in my school talking about the urgency of clean water and developing communities,” she said. The campaign raised 97,500 pennies and provide 37 people with clean water for a lifetime.

Even though Alper is making such a big difference, she still has to deal with the negative comments. She has the perfect solution for that.

“I surround myself with amazing people who inspire and support me and not the people who tell me I’m too young or that I can’t do something,” Alper said. Her can-do attitude has caused her to be recognized by Martin Luther King III (who she toured with for WE), and 10 TRUE STAR JR.

Malala Yousafzai (who she also had the chance to interview and rocked it!).

Let’s not forget that Alper is also an author! Her book Momentus: Small Acts, Big Change is a guide that includes a lot of her interviews and motivates the readers to get out there and make a change.

“Momentus: Small Acts, Big Change is really a number of great outlets for me to amplify my voice and for me to share other people’s stories and share the message that anyone can make a difference…”

She loves making a difference, but Alper is also a bubbly teenager who loves to spend time with her friends and travel. She also has a passion for journalism and wants to work for CNN. Alper is a great influence to everyone no matter the age.

The Books YOU SHOULD BE READING on

Wattpad

BY ALISHA BUTLER, KELLAR MIDDLE SCHOOL, ROBBINS, IL

W

attpad, a place for user-generated stories, is not new to anyone who loves reading, writing and social media. You can read and write books for free. Download Wattpad (@Wattpad) and find books from romance to fanfiction. Here are some popular books that you might want to check out.

The Cell Phone Swap by @DoNotMicrowave.

This book is about how Keeley accidentally swaps cell phones with a rivaling high school's star quarterback. They can’t swap back until a week later, so until then, they exchange text messages and voicemails. Keeley then realizes that the quarterback’s not just some arrogant boy. But when she finds out who he really is, will her feelings change? This book is currently in 9th place for Teen Fiction and is published.

Cupid’s Match by @LEPalphreyman. Lila Black is receiving messages from The Cupids Matchmaking Service. She soon discovers she is matched with Cupid himself. She cannot fall in love with him or else bad things will happen. It's currently number one in Paranormal.

Bittersweet by @AustenSnowWinter. Katy owns a bakery called Katy Cakes and her best baker suddenly quits. She discovers her next-door neighbor Gage is an excellent baker, but the two are completely different. They say opposites attract. Or maybe not.

68 Days and Counting (sequel to The Bad Boy and The Tomboy) by @nikki20038. After everything Macy and Sam have gone through, they are now in Manchester, England at the same school. The pair have to make friends, become part of new soccer teams, and also tolerate girls drooling over Sam. Baby Keeper by @beautlies. Keely has gotten an overnight job babysitting the grumpy and cold Jian Li’s son. She wants to find out why he's always unfriendly and irritable, but there's always the risk of falling in love.

So the next time you’re online and in the mood for something good to read, choose one of these to satisfy your urge.

TRUE STAR JR. 11

MUST-TRY TOP SELLING VIDEO GAMES

BY DARYA NELSON, KELLAR MIDDLE SCHOOL, ROBBINS, IL

S

ince video games were introduced in the 1980s, several have generated billions of dollars. Donkey Kong, the game that introduced us to Mario, came out in 1981 (way before many of us were even born) has made $4.4 billion, according to businessinsider.com.

Nearly 40 years ago, Pac-Man was introduced for Atari and is still available to download on smartphones and tablets. The game has made $12.8 billion. And last year gaming made over $100 billion (that’s a “b”). Here’s a list of those top sellers.

Destiny 2

Destiny 2 sales have surpassed Destiny, according to Polygon.com. Destiny 2 is a multiplayer first-person shooter game for PlayStation 4, Xbox One and computers. Players take on roles to help humanity in the last safe city taken over by an invasion led by Ghaul, the imposing commander of the brutal Red Legion.

NBA 2K18

A basketball simulation game for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Nintendo Switch and computers. NBA 2K18 is all about making sure that playing the game in your home is like being on the court. The player follows the rules of NBA and uses real-life or customized players and teams.

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Madden NFL 18

Madden NFL 18, which came out in August, is a football video game for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. Madden NFL 18 introduced three gameplay changes: arcade for easier play, simulation mode for players interested in an authentic prolike game and competitive. You can create your favorite team and player.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Released last March, this action-adventure game follows Link, who has awaken after a 100-year rest to a voice that guides him to defeat Calamity Ganon who plans to destroy the kingdom of Hyrule. The game is for the Nintendo Switch and Wii U consoles.

Horizon Zero Dawn

Aloy (the main character) is a hunter living in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by hostile robots.

Aloy wonders why humans are now in primitive tribal societies and robots run the world in the 31st Century.

Girls HANDLE THEIR BUSINESS

AT THE GIRLS’ ENTREPRENEUR EXPO!

PHOTO CREDIT: BILLY MONTGOMERY

BY KAYLA HOLLOWAY, MORGAN PARK HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO, IL

I

n October, several young girls aged 10 to 17 talked about their businesses at the Girls’ Entrepreneur Expo! The idea for the expo was something Deola Gaiter, the creator of the girls’ lotion product Skin So Sweet, always wanted to do.

“I decided to create a platform for young girl entrepreneurs to build their business and market themselves. I call it girls who are living the ‘Oh So Sweet Lifestyle’--simply doing what they love and using their gifts to create the ‘Oh So Sweet Lifestyle,’” said Gaiter.

Seventeen-year-old Ariyana Maddox was one of the girls who participated in the expo. Maddox said she started her year-old business, PutaRiche Beauty, because she did not want to work for anyone else. Her beauty products, face masks, lip glosses, and lip scrubs are 100 percent vegan and organic.

“I started my business because I felt that I wanted to do something for myself. I was tired of working for other people and thought [to myself] ‘You know, you’re good at this, let me take this on and do it for myself,’” Maddox said.

Nine-year-old Amani Andrade also started her business in January 2017, and she sells girl accessories such as bows, headbands and pom poms. “My headbands inspire young girls because they're really cool. When girls see my headbands and know that I sewed them, they can see that they can sew them, too,” said Andrade.

Andrade was just one of several entrepreneurs looking to motivate young girls to be more confident. Asia Kennard uses her business Royal Kool Kids to empower girls by selling T-shirts and lip glosses. “This business tells girls that they can be whatever they want to be and they don’t have to work for anyone else when they grow up. I decided on making these products because I didn’t want to use other things that weren’t mine.

I wanted to make my own creations and be an entrepreneur,” she said.

You can catch this expo every year filled with many girl entrepreneurs. Follow Gaiter on Instagram @mrsdeegaiter or @skin_so_sweet for more inforamtion on upcoming events.

TRUE STAR JR. 13

HOT OFF THE PRESS

The Fighter:

Vara James Hopkins

BY MAKAYLA IDELBURG, LINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY, CHICAGO, IL PHOTO CREDIT: MIREYA ACIERTO

V

ara James Hopkins is a 10-year-old girl who lives in Michigan, but was born in North Carolina. Sadly, Hopkins was also diagnosed with Wilms tumor, stage 3, kidney cancer which is commonly known in children. At such a young age, Hopkins didn’t really know how to react to her condition.

“I was shocked, and I honestly didn’t know what to do,” she said. Because of this Hopkins has had to constantly go back and forth to the hospital.

It’s not pleasant, but it’s something that has to happen. Battling cancer is never easy at any age and you might wonder how she copes. “I listen to music (Eminem) and dance it out. I block everything out except for myself and go into ‘robot mode,’” Hopkins said.

Another way she copes is with help from her service dog, Olive, and her other friends battling cancer. With these hospital visits also comes anxiety which is bad on its own, but for Hopkins it’s a lot worse because sometimes she blacks out.

“When I have a fever I have to go to the hospital to get it checked out. I have a port in my chest. The port is connected to my heart central line. [The doctors] have to ensure I don’t have a fever. If the thermometer takes a long time my temp is rising and I black out.”

Besides the negativity of her situation, Hopkins continues to live her life with dreams of becoming a future surgeon or make-up artist. She loves art, animals, and dance. She hopes to one day go to 14 TRUE STAR JR.

the Bahamas and swim with the pigs! This year she’s at a new school, but hasn’t been able to go a lot. However, she’s excited to go back full time.

Her favorite subjects are math, but she also likes writing/reading because there’s more room to be creative.

Hopkins is a beautiful, stubborn, creative, and bold young lady who loves raw oysters and lives by the motto “Don’t dwell on the negatives of life, instead focus on the positives.” Her life is being photographed by one of her mom’s friends, Mireya Acierto, for a documentary project so her fight can be shared with the world. Hopkins hopes that the people who see it will learn something from it and use that knowledge to make a change.

Generation: Genesis

A NEW YOUNG TALENT FROM “THE CHI”

BY KAYLA HOLLOWAY, MORGAN PARK HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO, IL

C

hicago native Genesis Hale is doing it all at 13. She is a singer, poet, and actress currently having a recurring role as “Maisha” in the Showtime hit drama “The Chi.” As an actor who started at a young age, Hale shines through her performances, continuously showing others her personality.

True Star Jr. was able to talk with the young actress about herself and her career.

True Star Jr.: When did you start performing?

Genesis Hale: I think I started performing at 4 or 5 years old. I kept watching my mom and dad through their shows; seeing them on stage, the energy of the audience, and the reactions they got and I thought that was cool. I started performing, and I started getting the same reactions, so I kept on doing it.

TS: Briefly describe your role on “The Chi.” GH: I play a girl named Maisha who is a tough, bully-like child who likes this kid named Kevin, but he likes her cousin Andrea instead. Maisha is overprotective, very heavy set, snappy, has an attitude, but is lovable all at the same time.

TS: What is the best part about playing your role?

GH: The best part about playing that role is bringing her to life and making the name “Maisha” really something, rather than just being a person on TV.

TS: How do you feel that you relate to your character?

GH: With me being a heavy-set girl also, I can relate at that level when being labeled sometimes, like a stereotype. She sometimes has to prove herself, which I feel that I can relate to.

TS: What advice do you have for people wanting to go into the performing industry?

GH: If you want to go into the industry, there are a couple of things you have to have, but you have to have something that you believe in or something that you are good at. It all depends on what you want to specifically do, and you have to showcase your talents.

TRUE STAR JR. 15

Street Bud

BRINGS HIS OWN STYLE TO

“The Rap Game”

BY TYME ANDERSON, CHICAGO, IL

S

eason four of “The Rap Game” exemplifies creativity and amazing talent from some of today’s youth. In episode 12, the young stars were challenged to deal with the media.

This included press conferences, one-on-one interviews and more. True Star Jr. was present and had the opportunity to interview each rapper. Although they were all amazing, there could only be one winner of the challenge. The shinning personality of 13-year-old Street Bud stole the media’s heart in this episode. With his blue hair and exciting energy, this was no surprise. Being in the media constantly, whether it is in videos, social media or doing interviews, can be tiresome to some. However, Street Bud assured me that it was one of his favorite parts of being a star. He said, “It felt great to know that I won and impressed the people at the press conference. I know how hard is to impress those people.”

reach for their dreams. Street Bud has the potential to make a positive impact on his fans by encouraging them to continue to get good grades. He also encourages fans to become better versions of themselves. He wants his fans to, “Stay being you; don’t let the media change your mindset,” and you will continue to prosper.

Street Bud let us in on which rappers inspire him the most. Bankroll Fresh, who is also from Atlanta, came in as his top influencer, and 2Chainz coming in a close second. In songs like Dab Down and No Cap, Street Bud creates his own unique flow with the Atlanta trap flavor that Bankroll and 2Chainz have shown as well. He definitely has a flashy style with the gold chains accompanied with his favorite, cheetah print. With a strong message, creative flow and impact from these two Atlanta icons, Street Bud is well on his way.

When having the pleasure to speak with him, he mentioned how he likes to rap about topics that inspire him, and that other teens his age can relate to. An area that he enjoys rapping about is school and the different challenges and excitement that come with it. This spoke volumes, as this could be considered taboo in mainstream rap. Nonetheless, he frequently mentions that he wants all of his fans to attend college and 16 TRUE STAR JR.

This rapper has declared his name in the game and is fighting to claim his spot on the scene.

He may be young, however, he is determined to shed light on more positive matters and chasing after his dreams. With his outgoing style and personality, Street Bud is someone who will dominate the music industry with his positive vibes and genuine heart.

PHOTO CREDIT: ACE

TRUE STAR JR. 17

Jigga: THE FUTURE OF Rap

BY MAKAYLA IDELBURG, LINDBLOM MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY, CHICAGO, IL

A

t a young age Jigga, whose real name is Jeremy Brown Jr., is already making a big impact in the entertainment world and his community on the West Side of Chicago. He maintains straight A’s and goes to after-school boxing and dance classes all while traveling and performing! He’s a true scholar with goals of becoming one of the world’s largest hip-hop artists. If not that, then he plans to become a basketball player in the NBA. Just like any other kid, he got his passion from YouTube videos. “I would watch YouTube videos and imitate the artists. Then I would perform those songs for my family, which followed in them encouraging me to follow my dreams of becoming a rapper,” the 8-yearold said. Speaking of YouTube, he also has a couple videos out, including his collaboration with other young artists, KiKi and Iceman, “Our City” and “Knockout” featuring his sisters also known as “Tha Twinz.” He also has plans to collaborate with dancer and entertainer Danrue.

Currently Jigga is promoting his mixtape “Tha Takeova” featuring himself, “Tha Twinz”, and 6-year-old rapper Paris which is now available on all digital platforms. In the future Jigga wants to “build my brand, be able to support my family, and make some TV appearances 18 TRUE STAR JR.

while enjoying my youth in the process.” Jigga is an amazing young man who is working hard to further his career which is way more than kids his age even dream about doing.

One thing’s for certain though, he describes himself with a phrase that holds both truth and promise, “I AM THE FUTURE.”

GETTING TO KNOW

Nickelodeon’s Daan Creyghton PHOTO CREDIT: SANNA ZOE PRINS

BY KAMREN CALE, KENWOOD ACADEMY, CHICAGO, IL

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or a second season, five foster children are determined to figure what happed to their missing foster parents on Nickelodeon’s “Hunter Street.” Daan Creyghton stars in the comedy/ adventure show as Sal, the genius in the group determined to help solve the mysterious disappearance.

Despite working on a television show, the 15-year-old still goes to school and finds time to indulge in his favorite sport—soccer. He added that working in Amsterdam, where “Hunter Street” is filmed, allows him to remain close to his family and that is important to him, especially because this is his first TV show. “The way that I stay grounded is because of my siblings. I have three older sisters and one younger brother,” Creyghton said.

Creyghton said acting was not his first original plan for his future. One day, he was with his older sister at a modeling gig and the photographers wanted to take a picture of him because they had liked his style. After that, the idea of modeling had hit him. His future was looking brighter and he was excited about the new life ahead him—the life of an actor.

about acting is having patience. “When you are starting your career, there are going to be lots of no’s, but if you have patience and wait, the day will come when you do get a yes,” Creyghton said.

Creyghton has some advice for all of the kids that want to become actors just like him. He said one of the most important things to keep in mind

To keep up with the things that Creyghton is doing, you can find him on social media. Follow him on Instagram @daancreyghton.

TRUE STAR JR. 19

2018 SHOW-STOPPING

Style Forecast Photographer Chris Brown Make up Shekayah “sparkle” Wallace Fashion Styling by Nicole Parrott www.kaleidoscopebykolaberri.com

Journey-Embroidered Metallic Ombre Tunic-Zara, Grey LeggingsDSW, Grey Pearl Embellished Sneakers-DSW, Jewelry- Outfit101

Journey-Black Sheer Tiered Ruffle Top-Zara, Silver Chain Detail Jeans-Marshalls, Black Velvet Pearl Embellished Boots- Burlington Jasir-Distressed Denim JacketBurlington, White S/S Crewneck Tee, Metallic Silver Coated Denim-Zara, Black Sneakers- Model's own 20 TRUE STAR JR.

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Journey-Black Sheer Tiered Ruffle Top-Zara, Silver Chain Detail Jeans-Marshalls, Black Velvet Pearl Embellished Boots- Burlington Jasir-Black & Denim Mix Top-Burlington, Black Leather Moto Pants-Zara, Graffiti Converse-Burlington

Jasir-Navy Pasiรณn Crewneck-Zara, Red Carrot Fit Jeans-Zara, Navy Polka Dot Sneakers- Burlington

Journey-Plaid S/S Tunic Dress-Zara, Cream Skinny Jeans-Marshalls, Denim BootiesBurlington, Custom Denim Bow Belt- Kaleidoscope by Kolaberri

Jasir Bailey’s Top

FASHION FAVES

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BY JASIR BAILEY, KENWOOD ACADEMY, CHICAGO, IL

ENWOOD JASIR BAILEY KNOWS A LITTLE SOMETHING ABOUT STYLE, AND TO KEEP HIS ON POINT HE HAS TO KNOW WHERE TO SHOP AND WHAT TO BUY. HERE, HE SHARES WITH TRUE STAR JR. A FEW OF HIS TOP CLOTHING SPOTS AND HIS FAVORITE SHOE BRANDS.

MY Top 5 PLACES TO SHOP: Forever 21 H&M Mnml Urban Outfitters ZARA “YOU CAN FIND ALL THESE NATIONWIDE EXCEPT FOR MNML WHICH IS ONLINE AND IN SELECT CITIES ONLY.”

My Top 5 FAVORITE SHOE BRANDS Adidas Jordans Yeezys by Kanye West Human Races by Pharrell Williams Off White collaborations with Nike 24 TRUE STAR JR.

4EVER YOUNG

King Roscoe’s Lit List

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BY TRUE STAR JR. STAFF

HEN KING ROSCOE ISN’T BUSY LAYING DOWN TRACKS, HE LIKES TO HANG OUT, SHOP, AND LISTEN TO MUSIC JUST LIKE EVERYBODY ELSE. THESE ARE SOME OF THE THINGS AT THE TOP OF HIS LIT LIST.

Top ATL Spots Kilwins SixFlags Over Georgia Skate Town ATL Movies Andretti's

Top Sneakers Air Jordan 1's Jeremy Scott Adidas (Cheetah) He Love Me Not Vans High Top Red Vans

Top of His Playlist “God Plan” by Drake “Heartbroke” by Miss Mullatto “Way Up” by King Roscoe TRUE STAR JR. 25

ADVICE FOR Bullies

BY JAILA MABRY, KELLAR MIDDLE SCHOOL, ROBBINS, IL

T

here are many people in the world who have been bullied and there are many trying to stop it. According to stopbullying.gov, 28 percent of students “in grades 6 to 12 experienced bullying” and more than 70 percent have seen it.

It was in second grade when Antoinette Ball first experienced bullying. “I was the new kid. At first, I was bothered for being too skinny, then too fat and after a while it became everything I did,” said the 14-year-old. “I was scared and everyone called me names and I only had two friends. I used to tell my mom and she even came up to the school but that didn’t stop them.”

Being bullied started at a young age for Nia Barrow as well. “When I was in kindergarten I had to sit next to my bully. She would call me names and talk about my height. Whenever we had projects she would say bad things about mine, say horrible things to me, and pretty much ruin my day,” the 16-year-old said. “Her cousin would share with me that she’d say I was gross and stupid and that she shouldn’t be friends with me. Her cousin was literally my angel because she always made me feel better and encouraged me because I was so shy.”

26 TRUE STAR JR.

Hey bullies, listen up!

Yes, we understand that things may not always go your way but you shouldn’t put that anger onto others. Here are some tips to follow instead.

Step 1: Talk about it.

Go to someone you trust and feel comfortable talking to and let them know how you feel. By doing this you can save a kid from getting punched.

Step 2: Apologize.

Though this may seem hard because of pride, it is your responsibility as a bully to apologize to your victims. Forgiveness is not always guaranteed but doing the right thing should be enough.

Step 3: Change your ways.

Try to be a better person and do things differently. Help the kids you “caught outside” after school. It’s truly a better way to live.

Artistic HOBBIES OF ATLANTA

BY KRISTIN GRACE ROBINSON, ATLANTA, GA

O

h, what a place. A place for your artistic dreams and goals to be practiced and accomplished! This is Atlanta. From art studios, theaters, and dance schools, there are plenty of places to practice your art hobbies and skills.

There are so many variations of art, theater and dance, and Atlanta has a variety of schools and studios for each type.

Dancing in Atlanta

When it comes to the art of dance, there are many styles and genres that appeal to different crowds. Those who enjoy the fun beats and grooves of hip-hop and jazz might like studios like Dance 411 and Rhythma Studios. If you enjoy the elegance and movement of ballet and contemporary, Ballet Institute of Atlanta and ICSB-International City School of Ballet might be more your style. No matter the style, there is a studio or school that will fit your needs for the desired training you want.

Acting in Atlanta

There is an average amount of acting schools in the Atlanta area that offer the training you want and desire, whether it be on screen or off. Acting schools such as Nick Conti’s Professional Actor’s

studio, Drama Inc., Celebrity Actors studio, Get Scene studios, and plenty more provide high quality education in theatrical and film acting.

These schools offer programs for all ages and all people.

Being an Artist in Atlanta

Art is a beautiful thing that can be expressed using just a brush, some paint, and a canvas, but where would you find the education needed for the hobby you love to do? Atlanta is home to art schools all over that could be fundamental to your journey. When it comes to the different art schools, there are traditional studios that focus mainly on painting and sketching with pencil, paper, paintbrushes and canvases, but there are also digital art studios that teach animation.

DawnArt Studios and Redwall Art Studio are a couple of art studios in the Atlanta area.

Lover of the Arts

Art can be used to express your deepest feelings and emotions, and Atlanta is a great place for you to practice your artistic hobby successfully in that way. Expression is key in the art world, and finding the right school is a great start to finding it.

TRUE STAR JR. 27

STOP MULTI--Tasking!

BY KAYLA HOLLOWAY, MORGAN PARK HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO, IL

Y

ou may think multi-tasking is a skill, but it is actually a bad habit to own. According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, multi-tasking is the ability to do several things at the same time. Believe it or not, this behavior is damaging to your brain. No matter if you are texting while walking across the street or watching TV while eating dinner, mult-tasking can have an exceedingly huge effect on your brain.

Multi-tasking can cause an estimated 40 percent loss in your focus and as explained by forbes. com, “researchers found that people who regularly multi-task cannot pay attention, recall information, or switch from one job to another as well as those who complete one task at a time.”

Giving yourself multiple different tasks at once will only slow down the brain. Your brain has the capacity to focus on one thing at a time; as a result, your IQ can lower. Dr. Sanjay Gupta, the Chief Medical Correspondent at CNN, specified that when you multi-task you divert your attention from one part of your brain to another part, which makes you lose brain cells.

28 TRUE STAR JR.

A study done at the University of London found that the participants that multi-tasked had a remarkable amount of drops in IQ points.

Men can drop as much as 15 IQ points from multi-tasking.

Another consequence of multi-tasking is stress.

While multi-tasking, it has been found that the “stress hormone,” cortisol, releases, according to inc.com. Cortisol is a steroid hormone that controls a lot in your body such as blood sugar levels. When it is thrown off, you can experience symptoms as if you’re stressed like anxiety, fatigue, high blood pressure, weight gain, etcetera.

There are people that are able to multi-task without their brain slowing down. They are called super-taskers. BBC.com reported, “Super-taskers can juggle multiple tasks because their brains are wired for more efficiency.” This skill is so rare because only 2 percent of the world population have this genetic superpower. If your think you are among this small percentage then keep doing what you’re doing. If not, slow down and start tackling your task one at a time.

JUNK FOOD 101

BY KAYLA HOLLOWAY, MORGAN PARK HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO, IL

I

magine you got served a steamy, hot cheeseburger with fries and a large soda at your favorite restaurant. Just thinking about it may seem mouth-watering, but it’s actually harming you. Junk food is food that contains low nutritional value, but has extremely high quantities of salt, high fructose corn syrup, calories, chemicals, and more. The excessive amounts of each of the named substances can have negative effects on your brain and body that can affect you in the long-term.

Effects on the Body Junk food can cause many negative impacts such as overeating. According to WebMD, researchers from the Children’s Hospital in Boston tested the effects of the overconsumption of fast food on teens. The age range of teens tested were from 13-17 and they were given three different types of fast food meals that had different portions. At the end of the experiment, the researchers found that it didn’t matter how much food was served; the teens

still ate approximately half of their daily calorie requirements in one meal. Some other health risks from eating junk food include headache, acne, heart disease, high cholesterol, obesity and chronic health problems.

Effects on the Brain On the brain, many mental problems can occur such as depression. According to the UCLA Newsroom, foods that don’t have Omega-3 acids in them can increase several mental disorders such as depression. Along with depression, fast food can also cause anxiety. As explained by livestrong.com, “fast food is high in refined carbohydrates, which can lead to blood sugar fluctuations.” Other impacts it can have on the brain is hyperactivity and impatience, memory problems such as dementia, and an increased craving for sugar.

Every once in a while, it is ok to splurge on your favorite junk food. But before you get junk food, think about what’s in it. How will it affect you physically and emotionally?

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KEEPIN’ SCORE

NATIONWIDE HOOPING AT THE

CHICAGO ELITE CLASSIC

BY JADA DANIEL, GWENDOLYN BROOKS COLLEGE PREP, CHICAGO, IL

O

n the weekend of December 1st, the Chicago Elite Classic (CEC) showcased some of the nations best basketball at the UIC Pavilion.

Two of Chicago’s top ranked high school boys basketball teams, Simeon Wolverines and the Whitney Young Dolphins, demonstrated their

Mustang’s strong defense and offense showcased the explosive, elite talent that theMustangs have.

“Being considered elite is when your hard work pays off,” said the Mustang’s point guard, Kevin Miller.

skills against several high school teams from out of state. These five nationally ranked teams, La Lumiere, Chaminade, Vashon, Sunrise Christian, and Gray Collegiate definitely proved that Chicago isn’t the only city with next level talent.

The next game featured the La Lumiere Lakers from Indiana, and the Sunrise Christian Buffaloes from Kansas. La Lu fell short to Sunrise Christian with a final score of 47-56.

The CEC lineup was as follows: Kenwood versus Gray Collegiate, Morgan Park and Champaign Central, La Lumiere Lakers versus Sunrise Christian, Whitney Young versus Vashon, and Simeon versus Chaminade.

The Morgan Park Mustangs faced the Champaign Central Maroons. Chicago’s Ayo Dosunmu dropped several three pointers.

The third quarter kicked off as Adam Miller, a sophomore from Morgan Park, scored two consecutive long range shots. The Mustang’s season opener was a victory. MP won 82-64. The 30 TRUE STAR JR.

The matchup of the 4A State Champions, Whitney Young Dolphins, and the nationally ranked Vashon Wolverines included the Dolphin’s Xavier Castanada and Vashon’s Mario McKinney. Both teams in a double bonus, another dunk and two consecutive steals, are made by McKinney from Vashon. In the final period, with 4.5 seconds on the clock, the Dolphins tried to score but missed. McKinney dropped 32 points against the undefeated 4A State Champs— Whitney Young— leading the underdogs, Vashon Wolverines, to an upset over the Dolphins. The Vashon Wolverines is a team that you will definitely want to keep an eye out for!

PHOTO CREDIT: HESHOOTS LYFE

Young stole the ball from Chaminade, dunked and then finished a feed from Simeon Wolverine point guard Xavier Pinson with another dunk, putting the South Side team in the lead at the end of the first half, 30-23. Chaminade with 13 turnovers, Horton-Tucker with 14 points, KeJuan Clements and Zion Young with six points, put the Wolverines in the lead. Both teams were in a bonus with less than one minute left in the game.

The Simeon Wolverines won their season opener, 54-50.

When asked about the allure of Chicago, Simeon’s Horton Tucker weighed in and said, “It’s great. I have to represent. I play out here every day with a chip on my shoulder to show everybody that Chicago basketball is the best.” When La Lumiere’s point guard, Tyger Campbell was asked what did “elite” mean to The most anticipated game was Simeon’s 18th season opener versus Chaminade. Towards the end of the first quarter, Simeon small forward Talen Horton Tucker, split defenders and finished at the basket along with shooting several deep three pointers and scoring. Zion

him, he said, “I feel like elite is a mentality. Like you have a dog, killer mentality.”

Don’t miss out on the b-ball action in 2018. Stay up to date on the CEC details by visiting www. chicagoeliteclassic.com.

TRUE STAR JR. 31

CREATIVE & CULTURE CORNER

A-Town is My Town

BY DAYA BROWN, THE MAINSTREET ACADEMY, ATLANTA, GA

Lights shine in the night sky Plains fly high Music is being sung and every pitch Buildings are standing tall Art is on every wall There is talent in the whole city People are screaming “That’s Witty!”

Leaders were marching on our streets Just praying to God that we will have peace All they wanted to do was to be free They never fled from the pain Now we are looking up towards our kings and queens repeating “I have a dream!”

Atlanta is the place where you come to pursue your dreams by all means We are looking at our telephone screens wondering who is going to be the next top thing Thought they weren’t going to make it, but put every bit of effort in their dream It’s all about your dreams

32 TRUE STAR JR.

We roar “RISE UP!” We keep our heads up We say rise to the occasion as we lay this foundation Falcons bring the sensation all around the nation I embrace downtown living As we are wishing We are also forgiving Music blasting Hoping that this memory is everlasting Oh how the lights are flashing Dancing with a lot of passion We enjoy every moment we have Food on every block Art on the sidewalk We all rise with new businesses and invitation we thrive Creating revolution

Do You See Me?

BY JAILA MABRY, KELLAR MIDDLE SCHOOL, ROBBINS, IL When you look at me Please tell me what you see.

My hair, my eyes, and my nose and my glasses?

But is that it?

When you determine my personality, Is it based on how I talk How I walk, and more?

Do you see a little girl with no home training, When I dance with my friends?

Yeah, maybe so, but I bet you’d never see My straight-A’s, my full days, and my daily game plays.

You can’t see my personality?

No! You won’t look for it.

I’ve always wondered, Do you see me?

Or do you just see what you want to see.

TRUE STAR JR. 33

Yuki

BY KAYLEE “KIWI” RUTHERFORD, PARKER JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL, FLOSSMOOR, IL

34 TRUE STAR JR.

Ella

BY BRIASHA RICHARDSON, KELLAR MIDDLE SCHOOL, ROBBINS, IL

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