WINTER 2015
Are you a
SOCIAL MEDIA Addict?
Understanding
HUMAN Trafficking
Are you
STREET
Smart or
BOOK
Smart?
JEREMIH
E F R
Powered By
E
TALKS
WELCOME LETTER
OFFICE OF THE MAYOR CITY OF CHICAGO
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elcome to the latest issue of The Park, a Chicago teen magazine devoted to creating unique spaces and open forums for teenage writing, art, and ideas. This magazine is designed to explore life and highlight activities and events while giving voice to the issues teens face. The Park, distributed through the Chicago Park District and partnered with True Star Media, offers teens the opportunity to publish their creative work and voice their opinions on issues that affect their lives. This includes everything from love and family to education and current events to fashion and self-esteem. Every Chicagoan’s voice – especially those of teenagers – is critical to the discussion on how to improve the quality of life for teens around Chicagoland. Through the commission for a Safer Chicago, the city of Chicago and the Chicago Park District are committed to providing teens with positive service-based projects, recreational activities and social interactions through fun and safe events like Night Out in the Park and Windy City Hoops as well as initiatives like One Summer Chicago jobs program and Chicago City of Learning. But to build on these programs, we need your help – we need to hear from you about what kinds of programs and activities you wan to see in your communities, and how you want to use your local parks and libraries. As you read through The Park, I urge you to stay involved in your community and commit to your education – for education is the key that unlocks many doors. I’m devoted to supporting talented youth as they continue their education, build their job skills, and better their communities. I look forward to helping Chicago’s teens reach their full potential.
MAYOR RAHM EMANUEL
CONTENTS SOUND OFF
6: MOTHERLESS DAUGHTERS BY KIARA AUSTIN 7: PARENTS PUSHING CONFLICT BY JAMILA JENKINS 8: HUMAN TRAFFICKING IN CHICAGO BY NAUDIAH CALBERT 10: STREET SMARTS VS. BOOK SMARTS BY PRECIOUS CARROLL
WELL-SPOKEN
11: LAND OF OPPORTUNITY BY TITO GARCIA 12: A GRANDMOTHER’S LOVE BY TEMIA IVY
FASHION MADNESS 13-17: WINTER FASHION
STATUS UPDATE
18: MUST-HAVE MUSIC BY NAUDIAH CALBERT 19: SOCIAL MEDIA ADDICTIONS BY TIA TURNER 20: CHICAGO’S OWN JEREMIH BY TEMIA IVY 22: TRUSTING FAMILY ON THE WAY TO FAME BY TANAIJAH FIELDS
CODE SWITCH
23: YOUNGER TEACHERS VS. OLDER TEACHERS BY EMMANUEL OLIVER 24: COLLEGE CHOICES BY NIJA BRADFORD 25: THE IMPACT OF YOUTH PROGRAMS BY BRIANA WILSON
THE LOCKER ROOM
26: THE MUM BOWL 2014 BY TITO GARCIA 28: CHICAGO ELITE CLASSIC BY DAQUAN HAMPTON
PARK PROGRAMS
29: TEEN ADVISORY COUNCIL BY MARSHONDRA DAVIS 30: CPD SUCCESS FAIR BY BRENAE T. SCOTT 32: SOUTH REGION CALENDAR OF EVENTS 33: CENTRAL REGION CALENDAR OF EVENTS 34: NORTH REGION CALENDAR OF EVENTS
PLEASE LET US KNOW YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE PARK MAGAZINE CONTACT US: INFO@TRUESTARMAGAZINE.COM CHICAGOPARKDISTRICT.COM
TRUE STAR STAFF EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS DEANNA MCLEARY & NA-TAE’ THOMPSON MANAGING EDITOR MARTI PARHAM EDITORIAL COORDINATORS VERONICA ADKINS AND LENOX MAGEE ART DIRECTION DESIGN & ILLUSTRATION ANGEL D’AMICO-BAUER PHOTOGRAPHER DESHAUN “TRIG” ADAMS
CONTRIBUTORS
Briana Wilson
Daquan Hampton
Catorree Ross
Emmanuel Oliver
Marshondra Davis
Lakenya Chapman
Naja Harrington
Naudiah Calbert
Precious Carroll
Tanaijah Fields
Tito Garcia
Lincoln Park Models:
Trevor Ryan Alec Willis-Womack Miles Kenny Zoe Schmidt Nicole Economou
Not Pictured:
Tia Turner
Kiara Austin Temia Ivy Jamila Jenkins
Special Thanks Mayor Rahm Emanuel Superintendent Michael Kelly Board President Bryan Traubert Board of Commissioners Chicago Park District Teen Committee Michael Scott Jr. Vaughn Bryant
SOUND OFF
Motherless
DAUGHTERS BY KIARA AUSTIN
LOSING A MOTHER BEFORE ADULTHOOD ISN’T THE NORM, BUT ITS EFFECT CAN BE PROFOUND ON A CHILD.
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e’ve all heard about the millions of children growing up without fathers. I want to draw attention to a rare but similar issue, growing up without a mother. When a female grows up without a mother their womanhood is affected. A girl going through bodily changes and her first heartbreak typically needs a mom there to provide education and comfort. Not every girl grows up with that luxury. Ellen Baker, 52, took in a motherless daughter, Jackie, at the age of 14. “My feeling [about taking in another child] is that it was great because i loved her as much as I loved my own,” Baker said. “It was joyous because she was a girl who had low self-esteem. My responsibility was to make sure she finished high school and go to college.” Losing a mother before adulthood isn’t the norm, but its effect can be profound on a child. Jackie’s behavior, according to Baker, was “rebellious, angry, secretive, not trusting and she was never quiet.” Baker’s advice is for women who take care of motherless daughters to handle their lives in a positive way. “Stay strong; always keep love in your heart,” said Baker. “Always forgive, even if your mother’s circumstances caused her to give you up at a young age or not. She is still your mother.” 6 THE PARK
Experts figure about 1.1 million women, now under age 60, lost their mothers before they turned 18. This is a very high number and a very difficult situation for a growing young woman. “The life as a growing woman without a mother is very challenging. I took in a motherless child and she was in a lot of pain. I never really wanted her to call me mom because I always wanted her to know her own mother,” said Baker. According to Psychology Today, the key is that the daughter’s need for her mother’s love is primal and a driving force, and that need isn’t diminished by its unavailability. That need coexists with the terrible and damaging understanding that the one person who is supposed to love you without condition isn’t there to provide it. The struggle to heal and cope is a mighty one, affecting many if not all parts of the self, but especially in the area of relationships.
PARENTS PUSHING CONFLICTS BY JAMILA JENKINS
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icture this: A 15-year-old girl’s mother came home one day and asked the daughter if she could make some noodles. At the time the daughter was on the phone with a friend. After a while the mother got angry because the noodles weren’t made in the time she’d hoped for, so she started yelling at the daughter. The teen didn’t react to her mother; she just walked out the kitchen. The mother followed her saying disrespectful things and the teenager still didn’t react. The mother kept talking, which made the teen want to say some cruel things back, but somehow she kept calm.
“OPEN COMMUNICATION BETWEEN THE PARENT AND TEEN CAN FREE THE VOICES OF THEM BOTH.” - FRANK PESCI
This is a common scenario that happens among some teens and parents. Some relationships between teens and parents are strong. In such cases, the parents understand the teen is in a developmental process. For the relationships that are not so good, it’s probably because the teen is rebellious. It can also be hard for the parent to get used to the teen’s new world, so disagreements are going to happen between the two. Frank Pesci, a teen counselor at North Lawndale College Prep, states that the parent may incite a conflict with their teen unknowingly. They may bump heads because the teen is exploring a new world and the parent doesn’t approve it. The teen may feel restricted because their parent is
disapproving things, but not knowing that the parent is doing it for a reason – to keep their teen safe. According to Pesci, having an open talk about whatever is troubling the family relationship could be the key to a happier household. “Open communication between the parent and teen can free the voices of them both,” says Pesci. So the next time you feel a conflict coming on between you and your parent, try talking it out instead of yelling. THE PARK 7
HUMAN TRAFFICKING
IN CHICAGO BY NAUDIAH CALBERT
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hen you hear stories of human trafficking, you may think of the movie Taken starring Liam Nesson. Some teens feel like this is an issue that only happens abroad. You don’t think it’s something that really happens in America. But, it does. and, it’s happening right in our city. Recent hotline statistics from the National Human Trafficking Resource Center (NHTRC) show that Illinois had the fifth highest call volume, falling behind only New York, Florida, Texas and California. The NHTRC reports that sex trafficking victims are typically solicited in Chicago suburbs in places such as massage parlors and gentlemen’s clubs because locations downtown are heavily monitored by the police. Gangs, especially those on the West Side, also use human trafficking. Over the past five years, the situation, it seems, has worsened particularly because of the Internet.
trust and making them feel like nobody but the [trafficker] can empathize with their struggles. those especially vulnerable to these deceptions are individuals experiencing conflict in school or at home, who are seeking escape from their current situations. Popular websites frequented by Johns, men who pay for prostitution services and/or pimps, include classifieds sites like Craigslist and Backpage. Johns also use online forums to share their “adventures.” The pimp-trafficking victim relationship is a complex one. “It’s a love-hate relationship. It’s the love that you wanted for so long and did not have that will make it okay for you to be with the pimp,” said Bieschke.
“Traffickers or predators can [now] sit anonymously behind computers,” Joanne Bieschke, Deputy Director of the Cook County Youth Services Department, told the Chicago Tribune.
The issue of human trafficking has also impacted students. Emmanuel Oliver, 16, a student at George Westinghouse College Prep, didn’t realize sex trafficking still existed.
Online traffickers typically form cyber relationships with young teenagers, gaining their
“When I heard that slavery still existed it made me really angry,” Oliver said.
8 THE PARK
THE AVERAGE AGE AT WHICH CHILDREN ARE SOLD INTO SEX TRAFFICKING IS 11 TO 14, ACCORDING TO THE FBI.
In a world where prostitutes are seen as criminals, many states – including Illinois – are starting to recognize that harsher penalties need to be taken against Johns for the treatment of women caught in the trap. “People don’t know the difference between ‘prostitute’ and ‘victim’. They don’t know exactly what they experience,” LaKenya Chapman, 17, a senior at George Westinghouse College Prep, said. “In the eyes of society … there’s no difference.” Across much of America, underage sex trafficking victims are treated as criminals rather than victims, and law enforcement, lacking training and options, often sends them to juvenile detention centers. The average age at which children are sold into sex trafficking is 11 to 14, according to the FBI. These children often come from unstable homes; they’re foster children, runaways, undocumented immigrants, victims of domestic violence, and LGBT youth. No one knows exactly how many minors are trafficked in America or how many are arrested by authorities. In 2012, the most recent year for which data is available, 136 male
and 443 female victims were reported to the federal government as having been arrested as minors engaging in prostitution, according to a Department of State report published in June. Many agencies acknowledge the difficulty in quantifying the scope of the problem, but estimates show that about 100,000 children are trafficked in the U.S. every year, while the organization Innocents at Risk estimates it’s closer to 300,000 (the U.S. Department of Justice estimates that 300,000 children are “at risk for sexual exploitation each year in the United States”). Trafficked minors are, of course, just one component of the broader underground sex trafficking economy in America. The State Department report estimated the total sex-trafficking business in eight U.S. major cities in 2012 to range from $39.9 million (Denver) to $290 million (Atlanta) in 2012, with D.C.’s around $100 million. Twenty-two states have attempted to address the problem of trafficked minors by enacting safe harbor laws. But, that’s not enough. Chicagoans need to stand up and recognize that this is happening and we need this to stop. THE PARK 9
street Smarts
vs. Book Smarts BY PRECIOUS CARROLL
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hen asking people what they thought would help them throughout their life when it came to street smarts vs. book smarts, there were many different answers. Everyone has a different definition on what the terms street smart and book smart mean to them. “If you take all the money on the earth away from me, I still will survive.” Kenneth Key is a former gang banger and is familiar with the streets. Key was a great high school student but went down the wrong path. He grew up in Chicago in the early 90’s and was the middle child between his sister and little brother. After Key’s younger brother was killed on the streets of Chicago, his world got turned upside down. He became more involved in the streets out of anger and revenge. Key says, “As I look back, I do regret quitting school and falling into the street gangs because it didn’t help me achieve nothing nor help my life in any way.” 10 THE PARK
Being “book smart” is not a popular answer like “street smart,” but the people who are “book smart” say it helps them more in the real world. In her book, The Skills and Knowledge Necessary for Dealing with Modern Urban Life, Andra Kusweski, a 2003 Stanford University graduate, wrote that she believes that school is the way to go throughout your life, because you get more opportunities in life and are able to experience more than being on the street, helping your life in the times you need it most. “Your money can be taken from you in a blink of an eye, but your knowledge lasts forever,” says Kusweski. She explains how money and material things can be taken away, but no matter what, in life everything you learn will stick with you when everything else is gone. People will have their different opinions on which will benefit them more in life. Which smart are you?
LAND OF
WELL-SPOKEN
OPPORTUNITY BY TITO GARCIA
…MOST MEXICANS COME TO THE U.S. FOR JOBS, A BETTER ENVIRONMENT, AND A FUTURE FOR THEIR KIDS.
Then: Alvarado started as a bus boy
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Now: Arturo Alvarado is the executive chef at Maggiano’s
t’s no secret that the United States is heavily populated with working immigrants throughout the country. Through media coverage we’re told that some Mexicans come to the U.S. for jobs, a better environment, and a better future for their kids. The stereotypical job for a Mexican in America typically is a landscaper, janitor or manual labor worker in a factory. What many people don’t know is that a Mexican can emigrate from Mexico and become a very successful American citizen. Chicago citizen, Arturo Alvarado, first came to the U.S. in search of a job to support his immediate family back in Mexico. It wasn’t long before the Let
Us Entertain You company, “Maggiano’s Little Italy” in Schaumburg, Il, employed Alvarado. Starting out as a bus boy, Alvarado claims his “hard work and dedication” helped him to earn his right as a chef, later moving to Maggiano’s Clark & Grand location to become one of the restaurant’s head chefs. After several more years of paying his dues, Alvarado is now the executive chef at the Maggiano’s location in Vernon Hills. Alvarado shared that his most memorable moment at Maggiano’s was becoming executive chef after all his hard work and dedication. THE PARK 11
A Grandmother’s LOVE BY TEMIA IVY
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hen you hear the word grandmother, you may think of how she is the rock of your family. A grandmother is usually the one who you can run to talk to or go to for advice. Author Karen Mortensen, who penned the poem “A Grandmother’s Love,” captures the essence of a family matriarch. “As children, we can’t comprehend or fully realize the meaning of a grandmother’s love. How wise she is, how much patience she has, or how much guidance she gives us by her example and by her helpful, caring ways.” Qujuandra Thompson, 22, says that she has a special relationship with her grandmother. “I believe I’m the closest out of all of the grandchildren in our entire family,” says Thompson. “My grandmother and I are like best friends. We go way back; we’re very close. My grandmother raised me, so we have the type of bond that no one will imagine.” 12 THE PARK
“Years go by before teens know and understand the depth of a grandmother’s concern and the love in her protectiveness,” Mortensen writes. “But as we mature, we do finally understand and we can look back and see through older eyes and wiser hearts her unconditional love, devotion, and family loyalty. It’s these and many other things that make us realize how lucky we have been and how lucky we are to have an amazing woman – our grandmother – as the centered root of strength and love in our life.” Grandmothers have the traditional reputation of being the glue for a family. They are the individuals who are known to keep everyone together. So when a grandmother passes, it is very natural for family members to react and interact differently. If you are lucky enough to still have your grandmother in your life, be sure to let her know how much you appreciate her.
WINTER
FASHION Photographer - He Shoots Lyfe Hair & Make Up - Beauty Boulevard
16 THE PARK
THE PARK 17
STATUS UPDATE
Must-have Music BY NAUDIAH CALBERT
Artist:
Artist:
Artist:
CHRIS BROWN Album Title: X Release Date: September 16, 2014 Number on Hip Hop/ R&B Billboard Charts:
#3
Chris Brown is an artist who has been in the music business for a while. This album, Brown’s sixth, made me one of his No. 1 fans, and it actually is very good. The best songs on the album are the first 11 songs – seriously. You. Must. Check. Out. This. Album. 18 THE PARK
JHENE AIKO Album Title: Souled Out Release Date: September 9, 2014 Number on Hip Hop/ R&B Billboard Charts:
#9
Jhene Aiko is a new solo artist. She has a style that is unlike most R&B performers. The songs on this album that are good are “Bed Peace,” “The Worst,” “The Pressure” and “Promise.” This musthave album will make you fall in love with R&B again.
IGGY AZALEA Album Title: The New Classic Release Date: April 21, 2014 Number on Hip Hop/ R&B Billboard Charts:
#10
Iggy Azalea is a new artist and for her debut album she has done pretty well. She has reached high levels on the charts and also made nice dance hits. Songs like “Fancy,” “Work,” and “Black Widow” are featured on this project. Those are considered big hits, and “Fancy” was a big song this past summer. Will Azalea continue to stay on top? I think so, because her unique voice and popular type of style will keep male music fans interested in Azalea‘s next track.
SOCIAL MEDIA ADDICTION:
Fact or Fiction? BY TIA LATIMORE
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acebook, Twitter, and Instagram are some of the many social media sites that teens use regularly. Many teens are addicted to social media like some people are to drinking and smoking. Social media addiction is a phrase used in reference to someone who spends too
“I probably spend about seven hours on social media,” she said. “But, I’m most likely outside working on extracurricular activities or probably in the house studying more.”
much time on any form of social media, so much so that it interferes with other aspects of daily life. When asked if there’s anything in particular that keeps her coming back to social media, MiKaela Jackson, a sophomore at Lane Tech, had lots to say.
Some teens feel that being addicted to social media takes away a part of living life, but it also exposes you to more. “Social Media is a life where you can be someone loved by most.” Both Jackson and Brown, describing their lives on Twitter, surprisingly used this quote.
“Yes, most of my favorite singers and people who I admire use social media,” she answered. “Also, it is a great way to get caught up with interesting topics and things of that nature. I feel like the majority of teens use social media to stay caught up with the hottest trends.”
We spoke with professional counselor, Betsy Right, and the main thing she had to say about this topic was, “From the teens that I’ve had, I learned that many of them stay on social media because they can be someone they’re not in reality.”
Teens like Jackson tend to check their social media sites the second they wake up and/or have the urge to look at it every moment. Social media user, Zhane Brown, admits that she spends many hours online.
Social media addiction is perfectly fine because it can help people become friends worldwide, but alter egos play a big role in this. Some people see it as a problem, but most teens see it as another way to express themselves. THE PARK 19
CHICAGO’S OWN JEREMIH BY TEMIA IVY
20 THE PARK
J
eremih is a known singer-songwriter and record producer from Chicago. He was born into a musical family and pursued his dreams while studying the music business at Columbia College. While attending Columbia he teamed up with recorded producer Mick Schultz to work on his goal of being a singer. After working long and hard, he finally produced the song “Birthday Sex” which reached No. 4 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 Chart. “Birthday Sex” had every R&B lover vibing and awaiting more from the singer. Jeremih was recently at Columbia College to talk to teens about his experience making it in the music industry and to answer any questions about his career. The Park magazine interviewed Jeremih while he was in town for the Q&A.
The Park: Is there a person that inspires you to keep pursuing your dreams? Jeremih: My son, definitely. I feel like he gave me a reason to go harder with my music. My mother always continues to push me; my competition moves me, so in the midst of all of those three – as well as my fans – it all makes me the person that goes as hard as I do now. The Park: How would you compare growing up in Chicago now to growing up when you were a teenager? Jeremih: I mean, it’s been the same to me. I grew up on 109th and Throop... so you know growing up I lived diagonally from a new park and we couldn’t go there all the time. You know what I’m saying? And it’s only because of what went down over there. So, just from that to even right now it really ain’t no different. [Crime has] always been around, I think it’s just been more publicized now. The Park: What would you say has been the peak of your career? Jeremih: It hasn’t happened yet, but so far it’s been “Birthday Sex.” That was the groundbreaking moment in my life. But as far as a peek of my career, I still feel like it’s a lot that I need to do. Jeremih has big things in store for his fans. His new hit “Don’t Tell ’Em” landed at No. 2 on the U.S. Hot R&B Hip-Hop Songs chart. He has been on many remixes and he is preparing himself to go on tours and perform at his upcoming concerts.
THE PARK 21
Trusting Family
On The Way To Fame BY TANAIJAH FIELDS
B
ecoming famous is not easy. Neither is having trust in your family. Trusting family means that you can talk to them about any and everything. Up and coming Chicago artist Syncere, 19, believes this statement to be true. He defines fame as “being known.” “It’s not about the money, it’s about being out there having people know who you are when you’re in public making a living off what you love to do,” says Syncere. Trust, on the other hand, is being reliable and supportive; whether you’re right or wrong, [family is] always on your side. Fame makes a huge impact in both positive and negative ways and can cause a lot of issues between families, one being trust issues. An example of this is the case of Beyoncé Knowles. Her relationship with her father, Mathew Knowles, has been turbulent. Examples include his recent selling of her personal items to the unannounced child he had in addition to her and her sister Solange. Fans can only image how little trust the singer may have for her father now. Syncere told The Park that he is becoming understanding of trust and knows that he can’t trust everyone and only needs his immediate family. “I’m not going to let anything or anyone change me, I’m going to keep going and be myself.” Trust could cause people to be more humble or to change for the worse and become very cold hearted. There are times when people lose 22 THE PARK
family trust because they are being used for their money. While this has not been the case for Syncere, he is keeping his family close with the hope that trust is enough when it comes to his personal business affairs. “My mom is my manager. I can’t see her doing me like that, but if she did I would talk to her. Suing her is the last resort.” Having trust within your family can be challenging for any up and coming artist. You can count on there being plenty of ups and downs along the way, but when the family sticks together trust keeps a person grounded.
CODE SWITCH
YOUNGER vs. OLDER Teacher BY EMMANUEL OLIVER
D
o you prefer an older teacher in the classroom or a younger one? A lot of people would like to have an older teacher in the classroom simply because they feel more comfortable. One reason why students feel more comfortable with an older teacher is because past headlines have reported that the young teachers were having intimate relations with students. That, however, was not a concern recently. I interviewed a counselor and a student on the topic and they shared a lot of similar opinions, but there were also differences between the two on how they viewed the topic. Here’s a look into our conversation: *Both of my interviewees did not want their names shared to the public.
Counselor Interview: The Park: Do you think the age of the teacher affects the flow of the classroom? Counselor: Yes. Because kids could relate to [a younger teacher] if they are closer in age, which might create a better relationship with them. As for older teachers, they don’t have as much patience with the students, so that could cause conflict. The Park: Would you prefer an older or younger teacher in the classroom?
Counselor: I’m honestly indifferent about it. Whichever one, whether it be an older teacher or a younger teacher, if they fulfill my child’s needs, I’m ok with it. I just want them to make sure my child reaches their goals. The Park: From a parent’s perspective, what are your thoughts about your child being taught by someone under the age of 30? Counselor: I am fine with it because everybody deserves a chance. I believe they would bring creative and out of the box techniques to challenge the kids’ minds.
Student Interview: The Park: Would you like for a younger or older teacher to teach you? Student: Younger, because they are more relatable to me than an older teacher. They also tolerate more from the students than an older teacher would. The Park: Do you think a younger teacher is as qualified as an older teacher? Student: Yes, because they can be just as experienced as an older teacher. THE PARK 23
COLLEGE Choices
BY NI’JA BRADFORD
“FOLLOW YOUR PASSION. FOLLOW SOMETHING YOU CAN SEE YOURSELF DOING 20 YEARS FROM NOW” -JABIR HILL
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o one in your family has ever attended college. Your family is pulling you in different directions, but you want to make your own decision. What should you do? Many people have a fear of the unknown, which is why it is so scary to be the first to go to college. Without prior knowledge of what to expect, it is hard to feel fully prepared for what is to come. A friend’s parents can be a good source of information. “Statistics show that if a parent, or both parents, go to college, then the likelihood of that child going to college quadruples,” said Jabir Hill, college advisor at Kennedy King College.
experience a lot of stress, which can be hard to handle. “Don’t give up. It’s going to be hard. It’s not going to be an easy walk in the park,” said Tamyshia Clark, a first-generation student.
Students whose parents went to college gain a lot of insight from the stories their parents share – from drunken mistakes to how to deal with the stress from being on your own for the first time.
There are multiple scholarships and programs that offer mentors to help first-generation students transition into college easier. First-generation students can also talk to college counselors and visit websites such as firstinthefamily.org and imfirst.org to gain insight and guidance. Talk to others for “a good support system, whether its friends or family or coworkers, who keep you in the same element working toward what you need,” Clark said.
One of the challenges many first-generation students face is “being able to pull themselves out of the home life, especially if they are still living at home, but yet go to college,” Hill said. It can be challenging for first-generation students to balance home life and school life; they may not have time to complete all the tasks at home that they once did, such as chores or taking care of siblings. Along with the challenges from actually attending college, first-generation students can 24 THE PARK
Either way, it is up to the student to decide what he or she wishes to do with his or her future. “Follow your passion. Follow something you can see yourself doing 20 years from now,” Hill suggests.
Impact of Youth Programs BY BRIANA WILSON
A
s a teenager, you have to deal with school, homework, and chores. After completing everything, you’re probably tired and decide to call it a day. But, there are some teenagers that choose to make time in their day to participate in an extracurricular program. In Chicago, there are a variety of programs, such as dancing, journalism, and sports. The motives of Chicago youth programs are to better teenagers and strengthen their ability to achieve goals. According to nationalassembly. org, “(youth programs) are community-based, positive youth development agencies that are mentoring, training, educating, coaching, supporting, and guiding children and youth outside the schoolhouse door.” Participating in a youth program can improve how a teen prioritizes and takes responsibility. Since a teenager already has to deal with school, work and home, it could possibly hold a lot of weight on their shoulders. While it may stress out some teens, there are some who are responsible enough to make time to get everything done. Melissa Kehr, 15, who is on her high schools’ dance team, highly agrees.
“I think [programs] help teenagers, because they expose us to new situations and decision making that we will probably be doing all of the time when we’re older.” When adding an afterschool program to a teen’s schedule, the main problem that could possibly occur is more stress. Instead of enjoying a program that should be interesting and fun, a teenager could stress out about how to juggle, not only their school and home duties, but their program as well. As stated on usatoday.com, “59% report that managing their time to balance all activities is a somewhat or very significant stressor.” However, one perk that comes from participating in an afterschool program is using it as a guide for success in the future. Being in a program that is related to your future career, could help you obtain career goals, professional development skills, and possibly college scholarships. “Dancing could lead me in different directions and open up doors and opportunities for me,” says Kehr. Although participating in these extracurricular programs could be hard to juggle for teenagers, they have a great, positive impact on teen life. Hard work will always pay off in the long run. THE PARK 25
LOCKER ROOM
Chicago’s
66TH ANNUAL Mum Bowl BY TITO GARCIA
T
his past October marked the 66th Annual Mum Bowl at Soldier Field. The Mum Bowl is an annual event in Chicago that gives the players of the Chicago Park District’s Junior Bear Program a chance to play their championship game at Soldier Field. Prior to the game, they show appreciation for their mothers by presenting them with flowers. This year, the Fosco Park Chargers obtained victory over the Washington Park Redskins. This game was not the stereotypical, quiet little league game. In parts of this match I felt as if 26 THE PARK
the Junior Bears were playing with die-hard Chicago Bears fans flooding the stadium. In addition to the championship game, The Walter Payton Award was given out to Amanjah Jackson from the Jackson Park Raiders. After the ceremony, I received the opportunity to speak with Jackson, along with his coach, Pierre Nealon, and father, Eric Hammond. Jackson mentioned how the Walter Payton Award will affect his future. “This will help me to keep on working hard, stay humble, and hopefully to get into the NFL.”
We spoke with Hammond about where he sees his son in the future. “During the season, we always practice sportsmanship and to be a leader on the field,” said the proud parent. “He’s going to go very far and we can’t wait to see his success. Hopefully, this makes him a better man. I hope he stays humble, and that it takes him to another level.” Finally, Hammond shared how he would react if Jackson wanted to be a pro in the NFL. “Of course, he has my support! He has my blessings. …The sky is the limit!” THE PARK 27
CHICAGO ELITE CLASSIC BY DAQUAN HAMPTON
O
n Dec. 5 and Dec. 6, the 3rd annual Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Chicago Elite Classic was held at the UIC Pavilion, featuring a collection of high school basketball powerhouses from Utah, California, Tennessee, New York, Texas and of course, Chicago. Seven games were played during the two-day tournament. Fenwick kicked off day one on Friday, facing off against Oak Park-River Forest, winning 48-40. Mike Smith, Fenwick’s junior point guard and most experienced player, contributed 18 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 steals in the victory. Oak Park-River Forest’s Dallis Flowers contributed 21 points in the loss. In the next game, St. Joseph faced off against Redondo Union of California. St Joseph controlled most of the game and overpowered Redondo by 16 points, winning the game, 70-64. St. Joseph’s Glenn Watson – who is committed to Nebraska – and Jordan Ash, a Northwestern commit, each scored 17 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. The Chargers’ highly regarded junior, Nick Rakocevic, scored 15 points, pulled down 15 rebounds and picked up 5 key blocks in the victory, while holding Redondo Union’s standout 28 THE PARK
sophomore, Billy Preston, to just 5 points on 1-of11 shooting. “I wanted to go at him,” Rakocevic said. “He is a sophomore, I’m a junior. I was not going to let a sophomore take the moment away from me and my team. I had to be a monster.” The final game on Friday night featured the Whitney Young Dolphins who battled Southwind high school of Memphis, Tennessee, in an overtime thriller that came down to the final seconds. Unfortunately, Whitney Young couldn’t pull out the victory, losing 69-66. On Saturday, Plainfield East faced off against Hillcrest in a fierce battle. The Hillcrest victory of 63-58 over Plainfield saw 19 points from Hillcrest’s DeAngelo Isby and 10 points from Myles McCoy, coupled with 10 rebounds. The next game between Bogan vs. Lone Peak was a close contest with the Bengals emerging victorious by a final score of 60-57. The Chicago Elite Classic 2015 promises to be just as exciting. We will be on the look out!
PARK PROGRAMS
Get Involved With
The Teen Advisory Council BY MARSHONDRA DAVIS
I
f you’re a teen who loves making a difference in your community, consider joining the Chicago Park District Teen Advisory Council (TAC). Chicago Park District’s TAC is a voluntary group of individuals who meet on a regular basis to support often initiative in the park. Council members work with the park supervisor and other Chicago Park District staff, advising them on the needs and concerns of the community and making recommendations and suggestions regarding its respective park. “The Advisory Councils promote ways for the community to better utilize the Chicago Park District’s programs and facilities…. [they] provide communication to the Chicago Park District on matters relating to their parks,” said Levette Haynes, secretary for the Garfield Park Advisory Council. “It increases community awareness of Chicago Park District projects; provides the community with a vehicle through which park information can be shared; and assists in locating alternate funding sources to enhance park facilities.”
According the Chicago Park District website, the following list contains some of the benefits of being a part of the Advisory Council: • Recognition as an organization that can effectively relate your community’s goals and visions for its park to the Chicago Park District • Appropriate space for advisory council meetings at local parks • A mailbox at the local park • Events featured on the Chicago Park District website • Invitation to the annual Advisory Council Appreciation Day event
Teens ages 12-18 throughout the city, meet at least once annually. Many of the councils either meet monthly or quarterly, and meetings on average last approximately an hour. In addition to meetings, some councils sponsor fundraising events and other activities that require additional time commitment.
“This council sounds like something I could truly make a difference in,” said Temia Ivy, 16, a sophomore at George Westinghouse College Prep. “I think if teens were more involved with the Chicago Park District we would have more programs that teens are actually interested in.” THE PARK 29
Chicago Park District
Helps Youth Build A Better
FUTURE BY BRENAE T. SCOTT
T
he Chicago Park District (CPD) showed and proved that they are all about improving the lives of young people when they hosted their first ever Youth Success Fair! Teens and young adults from all across the city, between ages 13 to 24, took time from their winter break to take part in this special event held at Soldier Field. The day, which started at 11:00 am and ended at 4:00 pm, was filled with a series of breakout sessions such as resume writing, mock interviews, team building activities and leadership workshops. There was also a fashion show that demonstrated appropriate and inappropriate attire while working with Chicago Park Districts. The scenes were “The Outdoors,” “Swimwear,” “The Interview” and “The Rec (Recreation) Leader.” Radio personality and entrepreneur Demi Lobo was the commentator of the show. 30 THE PARK
Vaughn Bryant, the CPD’s Chief Program Officer, made sure the event went off without a hitch. “I thought the event was great. I appreciate Coca-Cola, our sponsor, and all the partners that joined us to provide information and resources to the young people,” said Bryant. “We had a lot of young people show up. The goal was 1000 and I believe that goal was met.”
Antwan Jones, a 16-year-old junior from Morgan Park High School, said, “I feel the best part of the day was the fashion show because I had fun being part of the show; but I also learned a lot of information, such as summer job opportunities as well as information about continuing my education after college.” For Jones to have never been part of anything affiliated with the Park District, he made it pretty clear that being more involved with the CPD is a definite part of his future. Vanessa Flores, a 16-year-old junior from Nazareth Academy who also attended the event, is very involved in the CPD. “My mom is a supervisor at Cooper Park, so I’ve always been very involved with CPD. One thing I appreciate is the many opportunities we have. It isn’t all fun and games.”
If you missed the Youth Success Fair this year, be sure to mark your calendars for next year’s event so that you can be a part of the experience. THE PARK 31
South Region 2015 Winter Events
Rainey Park
South Region
South Region
Teen Game Night
T.L.C. Sock Hop / Soles-4-
March Madness
Every 2nd Tuesday
Souls Shoe Drive
Basketball Tournament
of the month
2/6/15
3/20/15
6:30pm- 7:30p.m.
7:00 pm- 10:00 p.m.
5:30 p.m.- 7:30 p.m.
Rainey Park
Gage Park
Ed White Park
4350 W. 79th Street
2411 W. 55th street
1120 W. 122nd street
773-284-0696
312-747-6147
312-747-7106
Dooley Park
Ada Park
Lindblom
Teen Movie Night
Teen Sport-a-thon
The Value of a Dollar
Every 3rd Wednesday
3/18/15
4/10/14
of the month
3:00 p.m.- 7:00 p.m.
6:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m.
6:00 pm
Ada Park
Lindblom Park
Dooley Park
11250 S. Ada
6054 S. Damen
3402 W. 77th Street
312-747-6002
312-747-6443
312-745-1412
* Dates and time are subject to change
Central Region Calendar of Events
Black History Month
Valentine’s Roller Skating
Polar Adventure Day at
Celebration at Homan
Party at Williams
Northerly Island
Square
Friday, 2/6/15
Saturday, 2/21/15
Saturday, 2/28/15
6pm-8pm
Noon-4pm
10am-4pm
Enjoy the fun while skating to
Northerly Island Lobby at
Homan Square Fieldhouse at
some great music.
Northerly Island Join us in celebrating the 10th
Homan Square Park Ages 3+
Tots Valentine Party at
Annual Polar Adventure Days
UMOJA - Highlights the
Skinner
and explore the outdoors
cultures of Africa and African
Friday, 2/13/15
at Northerly Island during
Americans.
5:30pm-7:30pm
the winter! This event is also
Party for 3-5 year olds with
for Deaf & Hard of Hearing
Family Hearts and Crafts
dancing, music, games,
Chicago Kids and Parents
at Armour Square
inflatables, food and fun.
Club along with hearing siblings and hearing youth of
Friday, 2/13/15 3:30pm-5pm
Parent and Child
deaf parents. Come face-to-
Armour Square Auditorium at
Valentine’s Dance at
face with live birds of prey,
Armour Square Park
Maggie Daley
huskies and wolves; they can
Family friendly art craft
Friday, 2/13/15
learn the science behind snow
projects for Valentine’s Day.
6pm-8pm
formations, discover native
Maggie Daley
Illinois animals, create winter
Valentine’s Day Dance at
Multiuse+Clubroom 1+2 at
themed art and enjoy music
Wicker
Maggie Daley Park
from a local band. When the
Friday, 2/13/15
$10 per family - encourage
weather is too nippy outdoors,
6:30pm-8pm
Moms and Dads to bring your
there is free hot chocolate
Wicker Gymnasium at Wicker
child to our family dance!
(for the first 500 guests). This
Park
event is free to the public.
Bring your dancing shoes and
Parking is $3 per car for the
a partner.
event day.
* Dates and time are subject to change
North Region Calendar of Events
Culture Jam Wednesday, 2/11/15 Noon-8pm Amundsen Park 6200 W Bloomingdale Ave Chicago, IL 60639 Live entertainment and various arts and crafts vendors.
You CAN do Good! Saturday, 2/28/15 11am-1pm Warren Park 6601 N. Western Ave. Chicago IL 60645 Using culture, arts, and nature to give back to your community.
Take the Lead! Saturday, 2/14/15 11am-1pm Warren Park 6601 N. Western Ave. Chicago IL 60645 Participants will learn our program delivery approach based in positive youth development research, and the desire to create a safe, supportive, and productive environment for youth.
Take the Lead! Saturday, 3/7/15 11am-1pm Jefferson Memorial Park 4822 N. Long Ave. Chicago IL 60630 Participants will learn our program delivery approach based in positive youth development research, and the desire to create a safe, supportive, and productive environment for youth.
Sports Instruction and Fundamentals Sunday, 2/15/15 11am-3pm Broadway Armory Park 5917 N Broadway Chicago, IL 60660 Teens will learn and practice a wide range of diverse skills and activities appropriate for youth.
Maple Tapping with the Family Saturday, 3/14/15 & Sunday, 3/15/15 1pm-2:30pm North Park Village Nature Center 5801 N. Pulaski Rd. Chicago IL 60646 Adults & families with children age 6 and up. Bring out the entire family to help us tap a maple tree and learn the whole maple syrup story from sappy beginnings to a sweet, tasty ending.
Drum Circle Friday, 2/20/15 7:30pm-9:30pm Mozart Park 2036 N Avers Ave. Chicago IL 60647 Drum Circles attract drummers of all ages, levels, and genres to create music together. Sports Instruction and Fundamentals Saturday, 2/21/15 11am-1pm Warren Park 6601 N. Western Ave. Chicago IL 60645 Teens will learn and practice a wide range of diverse skills and activities appropriate for youth. Black History Month Celebration Sunday, 2/22/15 Noon-4pm Loyola Park 1230 W. Greenleaf Ave. Chicago IL 60626 Music, poetry and historical remembrances for AfricanAmerican, African and Caribbean ethnicities.
You CAN do Good! Saturday, 3/14/15 11am-1pm Jefferson Memorial Park 4822 N. Long Ave. Chicago IL 60630 Ages 13-19 Years old Using culture, arts, and nature to give back to your community. Drum Circle Friday, 3/20/15 7:30pm-9:30pm Mozart Park 2036 N Avers Ave. Chicago IL 60647 Drum Circles attract drummers of all ages, levels, and genres to create music together.
Maple Syrup Festival Saturday, 3/21/15 & Sunday, 3/22/15 10am-3pm North Park Village Nature Center 5801 N. Pulaski Rd. Chicago IL 60646 Take a walk through the sugar bush, enjoy storytelling, make a maple craft, warm yourself by the fire, and taste real maple syrup fresh off the fire. Sports Instruction and Fundamentals Saturday, 3/21/15 11am-1pm Jefferson Memorial Park 4822 N. Long Ave. Chicago IL 60630 Teens will learn and practice a wide range of diverse skills and activities appropriate for youth. Civic Chamber Music Series Sunday, 3/29/15 3pm-4pm Indian Boundary Park 2500 W. Lunt Ave., Chicago IL 60645 Chamber music Join us for an exciting afternoon of chamber music featuring musicians of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s training ensemble for emerging professional musicians performs. Neighborhood Naturalist Leader Training Tuesday, 3/31/15 9am-1pm North Park Village Nature Center 5801 N. Pulaski Rd. Chicago IL 60646 Chicago Public School third graders visit the Nature Center neighborhood to learn how to care for it, and how to identify nature in their own neighborhoods. Civic Chamber Music Series Sunday, 4/26/15 3pm-4pm Indian Boundary Park 2500 W. Lunt Ave., Chicago IL 60645 Join us for an exciting afternoon of chamber music featuring musicians of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s training ensemble for emerging professional musicians.
* Dates and time are subject to change 34 THE PARK
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