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NEW MUSIC REVIEWS NEXT 2 BLOW: CATO CEZR NEXT 2 BLOW: DJ LOS NEXT 2 BLOW: D. FOCIS FEATURE: THE COOL KIDS
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UNDER ATTACK:
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DCX ENTERTAINMENT EXCLUSIVE: CHICAGO BEARS MAJOR WRIGHT BACK TO SCHOOL TIPS
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VIOLENCE TAKES HOLD OF CHICAGO
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FASHION PERSONAS 4 FASHION ICON: RIHANNA 36 HIP HOP MUST HAVES: LEADERS 38
CEO’S LETTER WHAT’S CRACKIN AT DIME CHILD THE BIG LEAGUES: MELODY HOFFMAN
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As 2010 closes, can you believe that it has been one year since the death of Derrion Albert – the 16 year-old Fenger High School student who was beaten to death? Since this tragic incident, I asked myself “What has changed?” Is it any safer than it was a year ago? Teens, the elderly, children and even police officers have all been victims of homicide. It seems to me that no one is safe. It doesn’t matter what race you are, where you live or your income level. The “Under Attack: Violence Takes Hold of Chicago” feature in this DCX issue is so important to me. We had to report on the violence in Chicago and the effect that it has on the community. I have personally worked with students in Dime Child who are afraid to go to school or ride the bus because they fear being killed. As you read this issue, the statistics about violence are upsetting. It’s mind-blowing that there have been more than 300 homicides this year alone and teens are nearly 20% of the homicide victims. When you really think about the number of people affected by violence, it’s really unbelievable. I hope this issue of DCX encourages you to speak out against violence.. Those that are featured in this issue of DCX: Mishon, Major Wright, DJ Los, Cato Cezr, The Cool Kids, D.Focis and Melody Hoffman are doing some amazing things to oppose violence. I encourage you to read their stories and discover how you can do the same to make a difference. Also know that Dime Child is a resource for you. We are just a call away! Until next time,
Warnita A. Taylor President & CEO | Twitter.com/IamWarnita
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, Hakeem Hasan
twhite@dimechild.org
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MUSIC
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This Fall, DCX celebrated the launch of the hottest magazine to ever hit the Midwest!
Oct. 22, 2010 | Excalibur | Chicago, Illinois - Dime Child celebrated the release of the DCX Magazine. Friends and teens of Dime Child programs walked the red carpet and partied hard with DJs LOS and Jamal Smallz. Dime Child Music Production program students of TEAM Englewood Community Academy and instructor L. Williams graced the stage. Major Wright of the Chicago Bears hosted the dance contest and gave a cash prize of $300. Recording artist Rotimi performed his single “Forever.� Attendees received custom DCX gift bags with exclusive goodies from Vitamin Water, Pirates Booty chips, Kind Snacks, an original DCX tee, and cake specially made by DeAnn Wafer. Special thanks to XA, The Experiential Agency. Visit facebook.com/DimeChildFoundation for more information and to find out when DCX will host the next premier event!
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.com
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Crime rattled areas throughout Chicago this year in ways that seemed drastically different from previous years. It wasn’t until we talked to CeaseFire Illinois Director Tio Hardiman, one of the representatives of the anti-violence initiative, that we learned the truth. “Right now, we keep hearing about all the shootings and homicides taking place,” he says. “Believe it or not, I read the numbers. In the 1970s, you had an average of about 900 homicides; in the 1980s it was about the same, and in the 1990s it was an average of 700 homicides. In the year 2000, the amount was under 500.” Even comparing the violent crime from 2009 to what has happened throughout the first half of 2010 is eye opening. According to the Research and Development Division of the Chicago Police Department, the total amount of violent crimes in the city has dropped by 10.9%. The amount of murders in Chicago has decreased by 1.5% in the last year. While this
sounds like great progress, Hardiman reminds us that there still is much work to be done. “While the amount of homicides has definitely come down, we struggle in the area of shootings,” he notes. Violence constantly made news headlines and quickly spurred conversation all across the city. What neighborhood do you think had it the worst? If you guessed a place on the southwest side, you’re right. Statistics prove that Englewood, Chatham, Roseland, Humboldt Park and Garfield Park experienced the most amounts of murders this year. Of all the murders that took place between January and July 2010, nearly 80% of them were caused by firearm and while outdoors. “Something people don’t realize is that crime isn’t happening in the park; it’s in blocks and in the community surrounding the park, places where people live,” reveals 35th Ward Alderman Rey Colon, who represents Avondale, Humboldt Park and Logan Square. DIMECHILD.ORG
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why her school seems so safe most likely is
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g a w S my UMM...WE JUST GOT IT LIKE THAT
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DCX talked to new Chicago Bears safety Major Wright to get the info on his recent NFL signing. The 22-yearold footballer weighs in at 205 lbs and 6’1”, making him a strong addition to the team. In this exclusive with DCX, learn about Major on and off the field. Photos By DCX Photography 32
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SEE SOME MAJOR ACTION! Chicago Bears 2010-11 Schedule Date Opponent Sept. 12 Lions Sept. 19 @ Cowboys Sept. 27 Packers Oct. 3 @ Giants Oct. 10 @ Panthers Oct. 17 Seahawks Oct. 24 Redskins Nov. 7 @ Bills Nov. 14 Vikings Nov. 18 @ Dolphins Nov. 28 Eagles Dec. 5 @ Lions Dec. 12 Patriots Dec. 20 @ Vikings Dec. 26 Jets Jan. 2 @ Packers
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1. A proper diet is necessary to be successful in school. Noah Polk’s mom explains, “If a child eats properly, it helps them focus.” Her 16-year-old son attends Urban Prep. 2. Noah’s mom also suggests that students ask their teachers for one-on-one time more frequently if they are having trouble or struggling with class work. It’s better to ask for help than fall behind. 3. Brian Woodson of Gage Park High School feels that students should be on time every day in order to have a successful school year. Set your alarm clock a few minutes fast to trick yourself into leaving on time! 4. Another tip Brian Woodson shares with his peers is to always be prepared everything. Pop quizzes are no fun, but you can be ready by doing your homework and staying up to date with assignments. 5. Derion Cherry, an incoming freshman at Chicago Military Academy, says, “I sit in the front of the class.” It’s the best way to avoid distractions and pay attention to the teacher. 6. “Keep your eyes on the prize, which is the diploma,” explains Aremie Cosey of Dyett High School. She claims that this will help you stay successful in school. 7. Aremie also states that it’s a good idea to stay away from things that get you off the path of success. “Avoid bad influences!” she exclaims. Drugs, gangs and fighting can throw you off track.
8. During the school year, it’s always important to keep things organized. Cynthia Alston, who attends Dunbar Career Academy, advises that you “keep a personal planner.” 9. Never give up on your dreams no matter how hard the journey can be. Cynthia says, “Keep trying until you succeed.” 10. Lazy slackers don’t make it far. Cory Foundren from Hyde Park Academy says, “Give your all in every class.” He feels you can accomplish anything with just a little effort. 11. Cory also suggests that you resist the temptations that others force on you. “Don’t fall victim to peer pressure!” he advises. Peers sometimes try to pull you into their schemes and troublemaking—don’t be persuaded! 12. “Just stay relaxed,” suggests Joa’chima Ross of Dyett High School. School can be stressful. If you worry too much, it makes focusing much harder. Chill out! 13. Joa’Chima also thinks it’s a bad idea to rush everything. He says, “Slow down, take your time and just let things come to you.” 14. Aerial Hemphill from Harper High School thinks that maintaining a good social life is helpful to your academic life. Her tip: “Build positive relationships with people.” That means friends, teachers, coaches and anyone else you can think of!
15. Aerial also advises that students don’t allow these relationships, friendly or romantic, to become distractions. She asserts, “Make sure you can balance your relationships and school work.” 16. Vlade Jones from Tilden Career Community Academy says students should “stay active.” Join a sports team, run around with friends and just stay in motion. Staying in good shape builds confidence and keeps you healthy. 17. George Covington, who attends Mona Shores High School, says, “Find out your academic strengths and weaknesses.” Knowing what you’re already good at and what you need to work on is a key factor to improving your grades. 18. “Set goals and aim high,” George recommends. It’s better to set really high standards for yourself. If you really want it, you’ll work hard to get it. 19. Trumane Tompkins from Urban Prep says, “Go to bed early!” We know it’s cool to stay up late and have fun, but your education is too important to neglect. Aim for at least seven hours of sleep every night. 20. Rachelle Herrera from Kenwood Academy High School says, “Study every day.” Even though it may seem boring, you need to study in order to understand your academic material better. –DCX DIMECHILD.ORG
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