A MENTORING MAGAZINE 4 KIDS
JANUARY 2012
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23 17 EDUCATION CASON BRUNT
MARKETING Bryon Taylor
34 ENTREPRENUER TRACI WEATHERS
44 RADIO BROADCASTING DANIEL ATKINSON 54 VIDEO GAMING STEPHEN JONES 62 PHOTOGRAPHY LA DONNA RAEH
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42 06 Visit Us on Our Social Networks Submitting Content
SPOTLIGHT ARTIST OF THE MONTH FEMALE RAPPER
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“NOVA”
Frequently Asked Questions 11 Staff and Contributors 12 Advertising Partners PHOTO CREDIT BY:
13 Mentors
Interview Photos supplied by each interviewee and/or their company. Fashion Photos supplied by M & M Modeling & Photography
29 Recipe of the Month TO SUBMIT AN IDEA OR AN INTERVIEW
33 Brushes By Viola 69 Black & Missing Foundation
EMAIL submissions.escapades@gmail.com payable by postal money order, certified bank check in US dollars and drawn on a US bank REUSE PERMISSIONS submissions.escapades@gmail.com copyright © 2012 ACSmith Enterprises
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THE FIRST DIGITAL MAGAZINE THAT TELLS YOU WHAT JOB OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE THROUGH INTERVIEWS DIRECTLY FROM ONWERS, EMPLOYEES, AND ENTREPENUERS THAT HAVE SUCCEEDED IN THEIR FIELD.
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STAFF AND CONTRIBUTORS
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COMING TO ESCAPADES Publishing FEBURARY 2013
NOTE: If you are 14 – 18 and are interested in experiencing how to host a show, produce an Internet radio show, or begin your career in
E 4 Kids Magazine a subsidiary of Escapades
broadcasting/journalism and other careers? We
Magazine will begin its newest addition to our
are holding auditions at two locations in
publication family by broadcasting our live
January 1013:
Internet radio station at
January 19, 2013 at Society Girls Shop www.blogtalkradio.com/escapadesmagazine
(Oak Park, IL.)
Listen to live radio shows broadcasted on
If you have a good speaking voice and a strong
Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesdays where
vocabulary skill then Contact us for further
our youth hosts will interview guests from
details at escapades4kids@gmail.com or call
different career industries. Find out and even
us at 773-288-3000 and ask for Chris. Smith.
ask questions about different industries and how to secure a promising career from
Broadcast Studio
individuals already in the industries. Find out
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1515 East 65th Street
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skills and other type support you will need to break into the music, entertainment, sports,
Executive Producer: A. Chris. Smith
video gaming, medicine, and other industries.
Senior Producer: Pippa F. Smith Program Director: Dave Williams
Our shows will focus on questions concerning strictly what our guests have done to succeed in their careers. Also, enjoy actually calling in to our live broadcast and ask questions that are of interest of you and your advancement in your field.
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Cason Brunt was born and raised on the
We begin our interview with Cason Brunt with
south side of Chicago. He attended Beasley
questions regarding what specifically he does
Academic Center; Kenwood Academy High
in his career as an Assistant Director at
School and attended the University of Illinois
Rosemont College‌
for college. His passion for the work of Student Affairs ignited while in college and
Escapades: Describe your career as an
has remained fervent since. I seek to
Assistant Director of Residence Life at
cultivate leadership by uplifting and
Rosemont College?
encouraging youth. I ultimately seek to help them in their life journey in finding their
Cason Brunt: As the Assistant Director of
purpose and realizing their fullest potential.
Residence Life, I am responsible for supervision and administrative oversight of all community development functions. These functions include development and maintenance of a theory based student development program in alignment with the institutional strategic plan; which includes the development of our new honors housing initiative. Additionally, I am responsible for supervision of the department professional staff as well as management of budget, programming, and community standards proceedings. Escapades: Tell us about some of your career accomplishments? Cason Brunt: I started my work in the Division of Student Affairs at the undergraduate level in college at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, at Illinois, I worked in
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Admissions, Residence Life, Off-Campus
Escapades: What is your normal day like at
Housing, as well as within several units of the
work?
Office of the Dean of Students. From college, I obtained a Master’s degree in Business and
Cason Brunt: There is no such thing as a
Professional Communication from LaSalle
“normal” day in residence life. My work is
University in Philadelphia where I also served
very triage-like and varies daily. Student
as Graduate Assistant for Multicultural
crises’ and behavioral issues arise
Education. From my role at La Salle, I was
unexpectedly, regularly. However, the
offered a position at Saint Joseph’s University
operational functions of my day are typically
working in Residence Life, which by extension
constant – checking email, responding to
afforded me the opportunity to serve in my
voicemail messages, and supervising the
current role.
day-to-day operations of the central office.
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Cason explains to us what type of educational background is important to developing a career in the college industry…
Cason explains to us what motivates him within his career and takes on a normal day for him…
Escapades: Can you explain the academic
Escapades: What motivates you in your
background it takes to do your specific
career on a daily basis?
job/career and what is the future of continuing education look forward to for people in your field?
Cason Brunt: Knowing that I am making a difference and helping students reach their fullest personal and professional potential.
Cason Brunt: Professionals in my field typically study Higher Education Management
Escapades: What unique experience can you
or Student College Personnel Administration;
tell the readers about in your career?
these are theory based yet practical educational programs that prepare individuals with a fundamental understanding of Student Affairs and Higher Education work. However, persons within the field (including myself) come from varied academic backgrounds. This should be a constant looking forward. Escapades: What do you feel are the good aspects of the career you have chosen for yourself and what are the bad aspects of the career you have chosen? Cason Brunt: My career choice is one that is pleasing and rewarding in every way, even the “bad” is good. While the work can very time consuming and thankless at times; know that I am positively making a difference in the lives of students’ means the world to me.
Cason Brunt: Residence Life is a challenging but rewarding area of Student Affairs in Higher Education. It is a unique and uncommon experience to live where you work. This experience fosters the development of intimate and meaningful relationships with students. Escapades: What do you consider to be your weakness in your career and how do you work on strengthen this weakness each day? Cason Brunt: Not becoming emotionally attached to students’ personal situations beyond what it within my control. I am naturally an empathic person and it can become very emotionally draining based upon the nature of my job.
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We close our interview with Cason Brunt with
Escapades: As a mentor and leader in your
what his short-term and long-term goals are for
industry/career what type of leadership
his life in his career choice‌
example is best to exhibit for our youth?
Escapades: What are your short-term goals in
Cason Brunt: Servant Leadership is an ideal
your career and what are your long-term goals
and exemplary model. I truly believe that
also? Cason Brunt: My short-term professional goals
service is the prerequisite to greatness. Everyone can be great because everyone can serve.
include moving into Student Academic Success focused work and hopefully starting a doctoral
Escapades: Thank you for your time and I
program both within the next five years. My
wish you all the best in your career and
long-term goals include becoming University President and developing and managing a personal consulting firm.
please stay in touch with us and let us know how things advance in your career if possible?
Escapades: What do you feel is the next step
Cason Brunt: Thank you so very much. It was
for you in your career choice?
a pleasure interviewing with you and of course, I look forward to a continued, mutually
Cason Brunt: Hopefully working within a more
beneficial relationship.
academic support focused area within the academy that will allow me the opportunity to further bridge the gap between students academic and co-curricular experiences.
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Byron L. Taylor, President/CEO of LB Productions is responsible for developing new talent and artists. Mr. Taylor manages several top Chicago DJs and artists. Mr. Taylor also manages several models and helps in keeping a working relationship between the models and the modeling agencies. He also manages what he calls his “Street Team” which is responsible for distribution of entertainment material and promotional material for events. So please welcome Mr. Byron L. Taylor of LB Productions and let’s start off this interview by asking the first question of the day…
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E 4 Kids: Mr. Taylor please tell our readers how long has LB Productions and Marketing, Inc. been in existence? And why did you start this company? Byron L. Taylor: LB Productions has been around since 1987, we started out doing promotion & events in the downtown Chicago area. I started this company because of my love for house music. Most of the events we promoted and DJs that we were worked with was part of the founding house music movement. E 4 Kids: Mr. Taylor where did you grow up and what school did you attend; High School and College? What type of influence did you have in school; high school and college to go into the career choice you are in right now? What type of classes were the biggest influences in your career and what did you learn from these classes? Bryon L. Taylor: I grew up in the South Side of Chicago, I attended Bloom Township in Chicago Heights and I went to Chicago State for college. In high school I was very interested in business classes, which I believe is the foundation of my current work ethics. I took music and business classes that helped influenced me in my current career. E 4 Kids: Mr. Taylor did you have the usually problems in school most kids have such as getting bullied or trying to fit in to the popular crowd? Did you play a sport in high school and college and if so what was the sport? Also, were your active in
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any of the clubs or organizations in high school and college? And what have they (clubs/organizations) done for your success in your career? Bryon L. Taylor: I did not get bullied; I had respect for all my peers and therefore never had issues trying to fit into any particular crowd. In high school I played football, was on the swimming team, and ran track. In high school I was also a member of the National Honor Society, and Quill & Scroll. I think these activities have helped me develop the people skills needed to work with so many different personalities. E 4 Kids: What is your normal day like at LB Productions and what type of situations, accomplishments, and problems would a person thinking about going into your career choice deal with? Bryon L. Taylor: Every day is unique; I work with many different types of clientele, from club owners, artists, and sponsors. I have the fun challenge of making sure everyone’s needs are met. You have to be a detail/result oriented in order to be this field. You need to be innovative and ready to deal with emergencies in a calm manner. At the end of the day if the event is successful, then I know my job is done.
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E 4 Kids: Let’s go back for a moment to the educational steps to make a career decision of being in the career you are in. What type of continuing education would you or someone getting into your field has to content with? Bryon L. Taylor: Technology is a huge component of my job; I continuously take classes, go to seminars, to learn about the ever-evolving social media market. I research AV & DJ equipment to make sure all my artists is using the best equipment possible. I take marketing classes to learn the best form of target marketing to use for specific events. I continuously take business-writing classes to aid in promotional/marketing packages that need to be created for clients. E 4 Kids: What has been your most memorable moment in your career and what has been your most memorable moment you would consider forgetting for the rest of your life? Bryon L. Taylor: My most memorable moment was when I started getting respect from other counterparts in my field. If I could forget a moment it would be one of my earlier events that was not as successful as I planned. E 4 Kids: Can you tell some of our young readers and even some of our
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adult readers what are some of the big name celebrities that you have worked with and what you have learned from them directly or indirectly about yourself and your career skills? Bryon L. Taylor: I have met Ray J, David Hollister, R Kelly, Kai Morae, and a host of others, I just learned that everybody is different; you just have to treat everyone like a normal human being and give them the same respect you want in return. E 4 Kids: Can you give our readers some advice in regards to one’s education and continuing to learn even after you make it in the work force and also what it takes to make the proper decision in regards to choosing a career? Bryon L. Taylor: I strongly believe that no matter what field you excel in there is always room to grow and learn. Continuing education, no matter what your age, is a priority in order for your business or career to stay relevant. When choosing a career make sure you are doing something you are passionate about and love.
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E 4 Kids: Can you tell us about a person in your life that was a mentor or your example in life? What made this person so special and what other youth should do to pick examples of a mentor? Bryon L. Taylor: I have worked with many people who have inspired me. One person that sticks out is Farley Jackmaster Funk. I have seen him develop over the decades as a driving force in this industry, his passion, his gift, and his love of GOD has always given me inspiration and direction. E 4 Kids: Can you tell us what is in the near future for Bryon L. Taylor and LB Productions? Bryon L. Taylor: I want to keep my brands strong, and keep moving forward and developing and growing my business and my networking circle. In closing we would like to thank Bryon L. Taylor, CEO/Founder of LB Productions and hope that he will entertain the possibility of speaking with us again. If anyone has any questions that they would like asked of Mr. Taylor and what he does as a career please feel free to contact us here at Escapades/E 4 Kids (escapades4kids@gmail.com). We also hope Mr. Taylor has great success and continues to make a difference in the community and in youth that he comes across.
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Directions In a 3-quart saucepan cook and stir ground beef, sweet pepper, 1/2 cup chopped onion, and the garlic over medium heat until meat is brown and onion is tender. Drain off fat. Stir in tomato sauce, undrained beans, undrained tomatoes, chili powder, salt, basil, and black pepper. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer covered cheese, chopped onion, and/or sour cream and pass crushed red pepper. Makes 4 main dish servings. From the test kitchen
Chili
Variation Chili for Two: Prepare as above, except divide all
Makes: 4 servings
Variation Cincinnati-Style Chili: Prepare as above, except
Prep: 15 mins. Cook: 20 mins.
omit sweet pepper, basil, and optional garnishes. Add 1 to
ingredients in half.
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 tablespoon Ingredients
cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1/2
1 Pound lean ground beef
teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice,
½ cup chopped green sweet pepper (1 small)
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne
½ cup chopped onion (1 medium)
pepper with the tomato sauce. To serve, place 1/2-cup hot
4 cloves garlic, minced
cooked spaghetti on each of 4 serving plates; make an
1 15 ounce canned tomato sauce
indentation in center of each portion. Top each serving with
1 15 ounce canned red kidney beans, undrained
some of the chili, 1 to 2 tablespoons shredded cheddar
1 14 1/2 ounce canned diced tomatoes, Urban Chefs
cheese, 1 to 2 tablespoons chopped onion, and/or 1/4 cup
undrained
additional kidney beans.
2 – 3 Teaspoons chili powder ½ teaspoon salt
Nutrition facts (Chili) Servings Per Recipe 4
½ teaspoon dried basil, crushed
Calories 381, Protein (gm) 32, Carbohydrate (gm) 35,
¼ Teaspoon ground black pepper
Fat, total (gm) 15, Cholesterol (mg) 71, Saturated fat (gm)
Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
6, Dietary Fiber, total (gm) 9, Sodium (mg) 1265,
Chopped onion (optional)
Potassium (mg) 905, Calcium (DV %) 111, Iron (DV %) 5,
Dairy sour cream (optional)
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
Crushed red pepper (optional)
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How do you know what type of
How do you highlight your
foundation to use?
cheekbones?
It all depends on the brand and
Many ways you can highlight
the person’s skin type.
cheekbones, lighter color foundation, than skin tone. Also
When should you use a water
you may need to create
mist?
cheekbones as well, contouring,
One needs hydration on skin.
and darker foundation.
When do you use concealer? One wants to conceal darkness, blemishes, even skin tone. With all the new colors available, what are the best colors for different eye and skin tones? You never go wrong with rich tone greys and smoky greys.
How do you take a day look to a
What is the best way to heal
night look?
dark circles under the eye?
My advice…You can add on or
The best way to heal dark
take off. What I mean is you can
circles under the eye is
add shimmer on eyes, lips
treatment with eye creams that
decollate, and cheeks. Or you
you use daily.
What is the best way to clean your eye area? The best way to clean your eye area is by using eye makeup remover.
can go beautiful nude…This is sexier.
Do you have a make-up question for Viola? Would you like some advice about a certain product for make-up? Then email us at escapades4kids@gmail.com and we will get it answered as soon as possible from our expert make-up artist Viola Nicholson; owner of Brushes By Viola.
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Traci Weathers, partner in Society Girls Shop and Society Girls Productions, Inc. Society Girls Production founded in January 2010 to develop faith-based dramas, theatrical performances, seminars and special events toward teens and teen girls. In August of 2012 Society Girls Shop specializing in clothing and accessories (new and gently used) geared toward females (girls – adult women). They also have gift ideas (books, music, etc.).
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Escapades: What was your most memorable moment that made your decision to pick the career industry that you are in? Traci Weathers: I guess it happened when I turned 29. I felt the Lord telling me to pursue the arts and entertainment arena by writing scripts that would address issues related to the younger generations (specifically the teen girl population). Escapades: What high school and college did you attend; and who was your mentor? Who
In addition, teaching girls in a creative format. However, to answer your question more specifically, a ‘most memorable’ incident occurred
did you look up to for motivation in your career
when I was asked to work with some girls at a
choice and why?
grammar school in Oak Park. At the time I had
Traci Weathers: I attended Prosser Vocational High School in Chicago. I attended Wright Junior College, the University of Illinois at Chicago and Roosevelt University. I actually
another boutique. The girls decided to stop by to hang out. We started talking about all sorts of things and then it happened. One of the girls started talking about her family situation and her
have never had a ‘formal’ mentor if you will. There were three black female educators (from grammar school) that I truly admired and whose influence and instruction motivate me to this day. I don’t know if they are alive today however. Their names are, Ms. Jackson, Ms. Langston and Ms. Harris. Ms. Jackson taught me about professionalism and effective communication, Ms. Langston sparked my interest in writing and literature, and Ms. Harris taught me about Black history and etiquette.
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dad remarrying. She became so emotional and stated that she didn’t have any clothes or nice things to wear because her dad was busy spending money on his new family and neglecting her. That really hurt me to see the pain in her eyes and the tears. Afterwards, the other girls began to share their stories. That experience changed me forever. Escapades: Can you tell us about the history and concept of Society Girls? And can you tell us about the accomplishments that Society Girls have made in the past since it’s beginning in 2010?
Traci Weathers: I have always worked with girls in some fashion or other. I started Eye Openers, NFP, Traci Weathers Films, and now we are called Society Girls Productions. Under the Eye Openers, NFP and Traci Weathers Films umbrellas, we created a number of radio dramas and short films – one of which broadcast on a local television station reaching 6 million households. Last year we filmed apiece called, “Blink – Life Happens”, which focused on the lives of six troubled girls and their journey to find redemption. The film dealt with prostitution, racism, alcoholism and bullying. We were supposed to debut it this year, however, the videographer lost the footage. Society Girls
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has been happening in your journal. Be sure to include dates, times, locations of when the incident(s) occurred and include names of those involved. It is ideal to have this information just in case the incident escalates and you need proof or need to recollect what happened. In addition, if you are being bullied via email, Facebook, text, etc., keep that information so that it can be retrieved at a later date. As far as advice on peer pressure, again pray for direction and second – THINK. What will the consequences be if I Productions mission is to create projects that address issues relevant to our target audience and educate them on the fundamentals of life through various mediums. Escapades: Most youth deal with teen bullying and peer pressure. What is your
succumb to this decision? Who will be affected besides me? Is it worth the risk? Escapades: I know you have just opened a new store for Society Girls can you tell us what has it been like since the grand opening? How was the grand opening like? Traci Weathers: We opened on November 16th;
best advice for our young readers about
however, our grand opening for the Society Girls
dealing with bullying and peer pressure?
Shop is actually scheduled for Saturday,
Traci Weathers: This is a very hard question considering that I am not an expert my any means on the subject. Unfortunately, teen
December 15th. Hopefully you can revisit us at a later date so that we can give the scoop on how it went.
bullying and peer pressure our very serious issues facing our youth today. My advice is to pray first and ask God’s guidance; the second is to inform someone of what is going on – tell your parents, legal guardian, friends, youth pastor, etc.; third, documentation – document in detail what 37
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Escapades: Can you tell us what your ultimate goal for Society Girls Production? Are you creating shows that are similar to the productions that Tyler Perry (pictured below) Black leather angle high boots.
does in his theatrical performances? When was your
(pictured above) Black strapped heels.
last show and when do you expect to have your next one? Traci Weathers: Our ultimate goal is to have girls’ lives transformed through our radio dramas, short
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films, movies, theatrical plays, conversations,
Escapades: Do you and your partner plan on
seminars or The Society Girls Club. No, our
opening more than just this one store in the
productions are nothing like Mr. Perry’s. Our last production was back in the summer. We have been quite busy with what it entails on opening a retail boutique. However, we are cooking up some things and working on
future? And what will determine the future of the store will you give it a year or several years before thinking about opening another location? Traci Weathers: We don’t know as of yet.
partnerships for an awesome 2013. Escapades: Can you tell us about Traci Weathers what makes her tick; what makes her motivated each and every day? Traci Weathers: I am learning to let go and let God. It is a daily discipline for me. Knowing that we have to stand before God one day and give account for our lives is a great motivation! And, hearing and seeing what is happening in the news with today’s youth is motivation enough to continue to reach out to them. I just read an article today that stated that 72 percent of new HIV victims are young black males. And, violence among girls is on the rise. Escapades: So who is your partner in the Society Girls Shop and how did you meet? Traci Weathers: My business partner is my sister, Pamela Walls.
Escapades: What advice can you give our young and adult readers in regards to education, career, and family? Traci Weathers: Wow, uhm, education: understand that education is not confined to an institution. You can learn through all sorts of educators (teachers, parents, friends, enemies, people from the streets, ministers, etc.), books, programming and just life itself. Therefore, never stop learning – more importantly, never stop growing in wisdom. The Bible states that ‘wisdom’ is the principle thing. Career: research and investigate – ask yourself and others questions. The Bible says, “Train up a child in a way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it”. Parents can only lead you in the way you should go (if they know how to), but it is up to you to pursue it with passion. Ask God what you are to do and then educate yourself in it and go for it! Family: love them!
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Allen D. Edge has performed his special brand of humor at Zanies in Chicago Barrel of Laughs All Jokes Aside FOR BOOKING AND INFORMATION Jokes & Notes in Chicago U Got Jokes regarding Transitions Edge Productions, Inc.
Chicago Comedy Central’s “Comic Justice”
bookings for speaking engagements The Comedy Café in Milwaukee Please call The Apollo Theatre in New York Opening (630) 631-9239 or
act for Patti La Belle Aretha Franklin Smokey Robinson
email The O’Jays allen_dennis_edge@yahoo.com The Soul Children of Chicago
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Londonn (Nova) a twenty-five-year-old Chicago
Keep the peace tour-performed hour-long concert
native grew up listening to music played by family
to encourage youth continue their education and stop
members. At the age of five; her cousin MILD
the violence (Chicago Ill).
introduced her to the recording studio. Londonn’s natural talent, hard work and unique style landed her
On Camera LA workshop (Los Angeles CA).
standing ovations in Chicago, New York, and Los
Performed at the Regal Theater Local Talent Show
Angeles.
(Chicago, Ill).
Professional Entertainment Experience: 1993 - Present
ASCAP showcase at the Roxy (Los Angeles CA).
ShowTime @ the Apollo-taped contestant (New York NY). Ed McMahons Star Search-taped contestant (Orlando FL).
Performed at the 14th African/Caribbean International Festival of life (Chicago, Ill)
Fisk University Poetry set, (Nashville TN)
Mode Talent Agency/ Generation 1 Music Company Music Conference, (Chicago Ill).
V103 & 107.5 WGCI (Chicago Ill),
Video shoot work (Accapella Media Chicago, Ill),
Weekly Performances @ Mr.G’s (Chicago Ill),
LB Productions (Matteson Ill).
Universoul Circus opening act, and Opening Act for Hip Hop Artist "TOO SHORT".
Black Expo (Indianapolis Indiana opened for one of the..1 rap group Boyz N Da Hood.
Winner of the 107.5 WGCI/102.7 V103.1CHITOWN HOOD AWARD Best Local Artist.
New York Music festival at Madison Square Garden.
Commercial work for radio personality First Lady of 107.5WGCI (guest).
Chicago’s Bud Billiken Parade (a Guest).
Appearances on local and out of state radio stations Minnesota Minn, Gary Ind. & Los Angeles CA.
City of Chicago Back to School Jams.
Show Time @ the Apollo/Contestant/ Winner.
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Daniel Atkinson was born in Victorville California in 1974. He earned an Associates Degree in Visual Communications from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles in 1994, a Bachelors Degree in Music Industry with minors in Business Administration and Art Studio from California State University, Chico in 2000 and a Ph.D. in Ethnomusicology at the University of Washington in June 2011. His area of focus is Afro-American vernacular as an expression of the human condition within the system of White supremacy in America and beyond. His fieldwork was conducted at Angola State Penitentiary in Louisiana, the world’s largest at 18,000-acres and a direct descendant of the antebellum plantation system. He has worked in various capacities for National Public Radio, the Smithsonian Institute, Northwest Folklife, Experience Music Project, Stanford Jazz Workshop and others. Currently he is the Music Director at Northstate Public Radio in Chico, California.
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E 4 Kids: What were your favorite subjects in high school? And why were they your favorite? Daniel Atkinson: High school was very difficult for me and was not an enjoyable experience. My intelligence was not recognized and I was forced into shop and remedial courses. My attitude didn’t help
E 4 Kids: Is there anything in your past through
much either, but I was a very frustrated kid!
high school that you wish you could do all over
However, I was able to enroll in a literature
again and either just experience the joy of it all
class that focused on critical thinking in the
over again or just do it again and do it differently
last semester of my senior year. That
this time?
opened my eyes to a new world of thought and acceptance of ideas when properly presented. Also, I was selected to be a part of a special television class that did a daily, live news broadcast to the student body. They brought me in as a broadcaster, but I was much more interested in live audio, set design, lighting and directing. That course was a lot of fun!
Daniel Atkinson: In a perfect world, I would have begun the rebuilding process earlier. That is, rebuilding myself outside of the image that public schools fostered in me. I would have started carrying a dictionary with me earlier (to learn new words that was hearing and didn’t understand) and made myself more available to the learning process instead of backing away fro something that I was told was out of my reach. I really wish that I had surfed more and enjoyed being a kid! I held onto misery a little more than I should have, but it was the only thing I thought I could do to combat the isolation I felt. E 4 Kids: Why radio; why did you choose to pick radio broadcasting? Daniel Atkinson: Radio broadcasting sort of picked me. When I was an undergrad student at Chico State in California, I saw an ad looking for 45
really set me up to thrive! E 4 Kids: Who in radio broadcasting could you name is a role model for either in the radio broadcasting or not in radio broadcasting? What is it that makes them your role model? Daniel Atkinson: The before mentioned Joe Oleksiewicz was paramount! Thurston Briscoe from WBGO in Newark, NJ was another key influence for me. Thurston is very soulful and one of very few Black people in a position of power in public radio. Our personalities are very similar and just by seeing a Jazz Director for the local NPR affiliate, KCHO/KFPR, Norhtstate Public Radio. I
him as a kindred spirit, I knew that would eventually find my way without having to sacrifice my dignity or
applied, got the job and excelled at it! I already had a solid working knowledge of the music, so the rest was about refining my presentation and maximizing the experience. I was blessed with a baritone voice that keeps getting better. E 4 Kids: Can you tell me if there was a specific thing or person that was the motivation for you to pick radio broadcasting? Daniel Atkinson: My mentor at Northstate Public Radio was a man named Joe Oleksiewicz truly believed in me and helped me grow as a scholar, broadcaster and project manager. He introduced me to influential people and
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older recordings of blues, jazz, new age, world and classical music), I host my own three-hour jazz show, produce programming for the station, coordinate live broadcasts, do color commentary for live broadcasts, report the station’s playlists for royalty payments, work as a liaison between the station and record companies, university, represent the station at events and local meetings, provide ethnographic and research support to the news staff, etc… E 4 Kids: Can you tell our readers what is Ethnomusicology? What does it do for you within integrity! Most importantly, my grandfather
your position as a Music Director at the radio
Luther Jefferson who was a Tuskegee
station?
Airman and was a huge part in making all of the social gains in my family possible. My father, Donald Atkinson for being the most honest and loyal person I’ve ever known. My mother, Yvonne Atkinson, for not allowing the constraints of the American social order to limit her potential. I can go on, but I’ll leave this point by saying, I come from a beautiful, stable, intelligent and soulful family! Everything that I am is because of them!
Daniel Atkinson: Ethnomusicology, in simple terms is the study of music in people’s everyday lives—what it does for them, what they do for it and its meaning within a community. I don’t use much of my ethnographic skills here at the station, but the things that I have learned along the way have proven useful in the strangest ways. It does help me to speak intelligently about music that may be unfamiliar to listeners and to express the many similarities that people do not see. It also helps me to talk about the differences
E 4 Kids: In regards to your career choose
between styles, cultures and genres without
can you tell our readers young and adult
promoting the idea of deficiencies. This is
what you do as the Music Director?
especially important, because people often close
Daniel Atkinson: I train on air announcers, maintain the archive (new acquisitions and
their minds to things they don’t easily understand right away. It helps me promote empathy by expressing the universality of the human
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E 4 Kids: Can you tell our youth readers; the youth that are in school now trying to decide what career goal to go toward why they should at least investigate radio broadcasting industry? Daniel Atkinson: STAY HUNGRY! Do solid, honest work. Take calculated risks and own your mistakes, because if you’re operating outside of your comfort zone from time to time, it will happen. Be a sponge for knowledge and give everyone you meet the same respect you believe that you disserve in the end. You’ll be pleasantly condition. E 4 Kids: Can you walk us through a normal day at the radio station for you? Daniel Atkinson: I lock up my bike and say
surprised at how it comes back around to you in the end. E 4 Kids: Can you give our readers some advice about continuing education and career choices?
hello to everyone who is there. I check my
Daniel Atkinson: Never stop learning and don’t
messages and emails, maintain the library
enroll in an education process solely for material
(always in some state of chaos) and do what
gain. Do what makes your spirit soar and
ever in necessary to improve the programming and to make the work of our volunteer announcers as effortless as possible. Beyond that, each day is different. I may be called to work on some local programming, record underwriters (commercials), attend meetings, help fix equipment, run the operating board, announce, help people with their playlists, etc… It is only a part time job, but I do it to the utmost while I continue to look for more challenging and gainful work.
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embrace the uncomfortable feeling you get when receives your attention when you are not on the you’re learning/doing something new! When you
radio or traveling? What charities are the most
come out on the other side of that experience,
important to you?
you’ll be a much stronger person. Surround yourself with people who do the same and never be satisfied with your current state. You can always improve and grow!
Daniel Atkinson: It is very important for me to be useful to the people around me. One thing I learned from my grandfather (a very impatient and hyper capable man) was how to stay
E 4 Kids: What can you tell us is the future plans
usefully out of the way and to free myself of the
for the Daniel Atkinson?
idea of doing good work for selfish reasons.
Daniel Atkinson: I want to do good, potent work without having to reinvent the wheel on a social level. Meaning, I hold everyone to the same standard, which presents a myriad of problems when you come across people who think in a vacuum and have little to no empathy for
With that said, when I help local organizations, community entities and institutions, I do what ever I find necessary. Be it giving a lecture, setting up chairs, digging trenches or just simply doing all of the small things that need doing that aren’t getting done, I’m willing to do!
someone outside of their narrow view of
E 4 Kids: As we close out our interview with
possibility. I would really like to be a professor at
Daniel Atkinson we would like to say thank you
a University on the California coast to I can return for spending time with us and hope that his to my first love, surfing and expand my
endeavors in the broadcasting industry is
scholarship into something that is lasting beyond successful and satisfying as he goes forward in my time on the earth. I would also like to return to his career. the Smithsonian and work as a curator for the National Museum of African American History and Culture. I’d like to have children and travel with them to India, the Middle East, Eastern Europe, South America. I’d love for them to grow up as citizens of the world! That way, they will always be teaching me something new! E 4 Kids: Are you involved with any charities that touch your heart and mind to the core and
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Interview by Andre Chris. Smith and Tavon Armstrong Stephen Jones a graduate of University of Michigan specializing in formulating concepts from start to finish. Writing GDD, Gameplay AI design, mechanics, sports fanatic, UI concept, with a "Get it done" mentality. Stephen has worked for companies such as Nextive, Neriyzed Entertainment, Midway Games, Acclaim, and Electronic Arts. As Stephen worked for these companies he has worked in several positions such as Designer, Game Designer, Head Designer, Head Designer, and Assistant Producer.
E 4 Kids: Stephen where did you grow up? And what was your childhood like growing up? The two family
Stephen Jones has worked in his career field of
home with a mother and father? And did you have any
gaming design for the past 13 years with several
siblings?
years of gaming design ahead of him. Stephen Jones: Well, I was born and raised in Rome, We would like to welcome Mr. Stephen Jones to
Italy. My childhood was great! I was able to
E 4 Kids and the Escapades family‌
experience the lifestyle of a different culture, while also learning my African American history. I spent
E 4 Kids: Mr. Jones I would like to start off by asking how long have you been in the game design Stephen Jones: I have been in Game Design for about 12 years now. I started off in the year
most of my time in Rome, Italy but spent some summers in Detroit, Michigan with my relatives. My Mother and Father were separated, so my Mother took care of my brother and me. I did have 4 siblings; three brothers and a sister.
2000.
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E 4 Kids: What was school like for you? Did you have any problems with bullying as a child and what outcome in your life did it have on you? Stephen Jones: School was great! I enjoyed it a lot. I was fortunate to have not experienced bullying. I was pretty much friends with everybody. However, I had already a mindset that if I were challenged or picked someone that I would stand up for myself. Although, as I already stated, I was fortunate to have not had to go through such a thing. E 4 Kids: What were some of the video games that you have worked on in the past that youth would relate to? And what did you do to help develop the game(s)? Stephen Jones: Some of the games that I have worked on that are recognizable were Madden NFL Football (19972001), NFL Blitz (2002), Blitz: The League series, and Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 2002. On Madden I was responsible for coding the plays and making sure the all the Team playbooks were complete with their respective plays. Furthermore, I had to ensure all the plays worked as intended. Finally I contributed on what the game features for Madden 2001 would be. Working for Midway on the Blitz series I started off working on plays and branched out eventually assuming more responsibilities with how the gameplay played on the field. My primary responsibility was ensuring the football aspect of the game played as intended. As far as Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 2002, I helped with the concept’s inception for the game for the PS2 version. That was a quite fun endeavor.
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if you don’t keep up with the new trends in technology. E 4 Kids: With the way the economy is at this point what is the gaming industry like for young black African Americans; is it on a decline with business or is it increasing in business? Has the economy cased the gaming industry to layoff more employees and what is there for game designers’ opportunity of employment if the market is declining? Stephen Jones: There is no doubt the economy affected the Gaming industry when the crash first started, but it hasn’t affected it to the point where the market is in decline. Companies had to undergo some layoffs to be E 4 Kids: Can you tell our readers what was the toughest thing for you when it came to break into the video gaming development industry? Did you have any problems with looking for employment and get rejections due to lack of experience when you first got out of school? Stephen Jones: The hardest thing for me starting off in the gaming industry was learning the skills to do the job adequately. I was fortunate to have my brother already inside the industry, but once I was in, I noticed I was not thriving because I lacked the skills needed to do well, like learn about programming, computers, becoming an avid reader and a good writer. I did incur many challenges looking for employment, and definitely received a lot of rejections for lack of experience. The good and the bad thing about this industry is that it is forever
able to reposition themselves in a way that allowed for business to continue. There are always new platforms that introduced to the industry, and that always spells more job opportunities for people. The industry is still in its novelty stage, and has so much more growth to do. So the market will increase, especially as long as the technology keeps advancing. E 4 Kids: Most youth like to play the games but what is the interest in developing and making the games in our youth? Are the college courses reflecting any growth of interest in this field? What are some of the best schools around the nation that you would suggest and why pick those schools? Stephen Jones: My answer to youth having interest in developing and making games is a resounding, yes. Many colleges are now providing classes that target this particular job sector. I know when I was coming up there wasn’t any such thing. Back then in the late 1990s you learned on the go.
evolving, so it is very easy to get left behind
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The best schools ranked by the Princeton Review for Game Design are the University Of Southern California, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of Utah, DigiPen Institute of Technology, The Art Institute of Technology, Shawnee State University, Savannah College of Art and Design, University of New Mexico and Becker College. These schools are the best because of their curriculum, faculty, facility and infrastructure, scholarships, financial aid and career opportunities. E 4 Kids: What is a normal day for you at work what do you do on a regular basis? And as a freelance designer what does this actually mean to our readers when they are investigating going into this field (video game development)? E 4 Kids: Can you tell us about some of the Stephen Jones: Well, my day always starts off
awards that you have received and what they
prioritizing tasks that need to be done, and these can
mean to you and why?
cover a pretty broad range. A few examples would be researching about other games, brainstorming ideas,
Stephen Jones: What I received recognition for
putting together mockups, writing documents with
from my own peers was for how well Blitz: The
specifications, working with game development tools,
League played. I was in charge of the gameplay,
putting together slides for a presentation, putting
the animations on the field and heading up the
together prototype specs, etc…
signature moves, “Unleashed Moves” which were what we referred to as well “Boss Moves”-
When you are researching about going into this field,
over the top devastating moves and the game
there are many aspects to it that you need to be aware
AI. The game received raving reviews for being
of, such as the development, and the business side of
a fun game to play, so I was quite proud of that.
things. What you’ll find out is that the skills needed to do the job involve knowing the history about gaming, being a strong writer and reader, being technically fluent, and having an aptitude for collaboration. If you want to take it a step further learning about business practices would be also very beneficial.
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E 4 Kids: Is there any type of mentoring or on
My advice to youth in regards to education is that it
the job programs for the gaming development
really matters what you are doing in school. English,
industry that youth can look into for experience
Languages, Math, Programming, and other
or to find out if this career choice is what they
extracurricular activities are all skills that you will
wish to do?
eventually lean on when you are entering the work
Stephen Jones: Well, big time companies like
force. The more skills you have the easier it will be for
Electronic Arts and Activision do offer intern
you to adapt to any new challenging situations. It all
jobs. This is a good way for students to get into
comes down to preparation. The more you prepare
the field before coming out of college, possibly
yourself, the higher the chances that you will be able
earning themselves a good chance to get into
to handle the “moment�, if that makes any sense. So
the field by building business relationships with
take every opportunity to challenge yourself, be bold
the company. I would recommend for any
and take on opportunities that you normally wouldn’t
student interested in wanting to do an internship
go for, because for every experience there is a life
to contact the company of choice, inquiring
lesson for you and will help you gain clarity into
about their internship program and the
how to tap into your own potential. This is called
qualifications needed. Contacting the company
growth.
ahead of time will be beneficial in terms of establishing contact, demonstrating interest, and also give an opportunity to ask the company questions for direction as to what are the expectations required to be a viable candidate for an internship. E 4 Kids: In closing what is in the near future you in the gaming industry and what advice can you give to our youth in regards to education and life skills? Stephen Jones: Right now I am exploring branching out, trying to build a more wellrounded body of work as far as the kind of projects I work on. The good news is that mobile gaming is really beginning to take off presenting a lot of opportunities for work.
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E 4 Kids: What are your main duties/ activities? LaDonna Raeh: Running LR Media Group…lol! My main duties are photography, videography, and hosting my own radio show. E 4 Kids: What do you feel are the advantages of fashion photography and what are the disadvantages of fashion photography? LaDonna Raeh: The advantage of fashion photography is the opportunity to capture a designer’s artwork in the way that we see it with angles and improvisation. E 4 Kids: What has been some of the most memorable moments in photography for you so far? Since the age of 8, La Donna Raeh has
LaDonna Raeh: The most memorable moment, in
had the camera bug. She started off
photography, was when my first wedding resulted in the
with a passion for being in the camera’s
crying (happy tears) of a newlywed when she saw her
flash and has ended up being the person
wedding book.
with the camera in her hand. She brings experience spanning over 14+ years and
E 4 Kids: What are some of your future plans in your career
now runs her own business . Please
you have planned out so far?
welcome to E 4 Kids and Escapades Family La Donna Raeh…
LaDonna Raeh: I would love to teach individuals, both young
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and not so young, how to do what I do. In addition, to being sought out as one of the most innovative photographers in the industry. E 4 Kids: How many people do you work with, the majority of the time? LaDonna Raeh: I work regularly with 3 colleagues and several clients. E 4 Kids: Education is most important in all aspects of careers; can you tell us what type of education you had to go through and what does continuing education look like for the industry of photography? LaDonna Raeh: My initial studies were Computer Information Systems (CIS), however, I ended up returning to the campus to later take on Graphic Design and Marketing, which encompassed
time, shoot day is in effect, and can still change with
photography and composition. When it comes to
any given element. So the shorter answer is, I try to
continuing education in the industry of
prepare for whatever may or may not take place
photography, it is very much a necessity because
during the shoot.
of the integration of technology and the art. We all know how often technology changes. LOL.
E 4 Kids: What type of challenges do you come across with the different type of models that you
E 4 Kids: What planning or organizing do you
deal with and do you have a favorite model you love
have to do? (Predetermined/ self-directed)
to work with on a regular basis?
LaDonna Raeh: After sitting down with a client, I
LaDonna Raeh: I’ve taken pictures of some really
map everything out in a treatment that is in
beautiful people, but in most cases, they still seem
accordance to the client’s desired direction. This
to focus on something being wrong with themselves.
also helps with better time-estimation, resources
“My thighs”, “My nose”, “My weight”, etc. The funny
and locations. Then, I generally do a dry run of the
thing is, I don’t see what they see…I only see
shoot, either in my mind or on location. By this
beauty. My favorite model that I love working with
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E 4 Kids: What are the educational qualifications for your career? LaDonna Raeh: Photography as a career and not a hobby requires either trial and error or business of photography, digital processing, composition, exposure, shutter speed, and aperture. E 4 Kids: What do you like most about your job? LaDonna Raeh: What I like most about my job is the freedom of being creative and the satisfaction of my clients. E 4 Kids: Which high school classes have been the most helpful?
on a regular, is the one that said that they never take good pictures. But after the first session with me, they keep coming back for more photos because they no longer believe that. E 4 Kids: What is the most common problem that you face in your daily work? How do you solve it? LaDonna Raeh: I love what I do so much that I want to do it all at one time. So, I have to prioritize daily and take them one task at a time. E 4 Kids: What prior experience is required for your work? LaDonna Raeh: The prior experience that is required for my work is vision. Even if you don’t know how to operate an expensive camera and you have vision, you can learn how to operate the camera.
LaDonna Raeh: Wow, I feel like high school was so long ago that I can hardly remember. I would have to say History class. In history class, I was able to go back in time and experience so many things by picturing it in my mind. This has attributed to my storytelling behind the lens. E 4 Kids: Knowing what you know now, what do you wish you had learned more about while you we're in high school? LaDonna Raeh: I would have learned more about myself, as an individual, instead of trying to fit in with the crowd. E 4 Kids: What would you tell a high school student about the field of photography? LaDonna Raeh: The field of photography requires
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much practice. Therefore, every day is practice day and getting to know your camera! E 4 Kids: Where did you study photography? LaDonna Raeh: I am mostly self-taught, however, I have regularly attended classes for many years because there is always something new to learn. E 4 Kids: What did you do to gain so much of knowledge in this area? LaDonna Raeh: I’ve read so many books on photography and composition, not to mention it was part of my studies in college. I also kept shooting and trying different techniques. If I didn’t get what I wanted, I took additional classes on it or asked another photographer, then tested until I got it right. E 4 Kids: When did you become interesting in the field of photography? LaDonna Raeh: When I was 8, my parents bought me my first camera. Since then, I was always the one with the camera at family functions. I also had my kids to practice on and take pro quality pictures (according to my friends). I didn’t buy my first professional DSLR camera until 2010, which was the year I officially took on the title of being a photographer.
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E 4 Kids: Why is photography important for you? LaDonna Raeh: Photography is important for me because it is the most therapeutic and rewarding job that I’ve ever had. A lot of youth and even some adults feel that photography is all about picking the right model, landscape or scenery and then snap the shot. E 4 Kids: What actually goes into the setting up of a photo shoot? LaDonna Raeh: You can have a great model, landscape or scenery and not know which camera settings are necessary such as aperture, shutter speed and ISOs (last resort). Time of day makes a difference on the shot, weather, light bouncing, shade and composition. I mean, I can go on and on about all of the things to be concerned about just to get a great shot in a split second and trust me,
E 4 Kids: What type of industry awards and/or recognitions have you gotten in your career? LaDonna Raeh: …And the award goes to…LaDonna Raeh of LR Media Group. Still waiting
during each photo shoot, my wheels are always turning to make instant decisions to capture a great picture. E 4 Kids: In your own opinion what makes a great photographer? What makes a great photographer stand out most of all above others? LaDonna Raeh: What makes a great photographer is the one that can connect the audience directly to their mind by transferring the vision to the photo. A photographer that finds their niche can own it and stand out most above others.
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Put Safety In Mind For 2013 1. Identity Theft Protect your personal information, check your credit records and account activity regularly, and don't leave personal information or valuables in your car. Remember, you are entitled to a free credit report each year! 2. Report the 4-1-1 Public safety is everyone responsibility and one of the easiest ways to do your part is by speaking up about what you know. You may have the missing piece of a puzzle that could possibly connect the dots. 3. Community Connection A close-knit community is a safe community. Get out of your house, get to know your neighbors and consider getting involved in public safety by volunteering in your community. 4. Safety "Net" Computers are a huge part of everyday life...not just for law-abiding citizens, also for criminals. Protect yourself and your family by making sure your security software is up-to-date, being a smart e-consumer, and taking steps to protect your identity online. 69
Case Type: Endangered DOB: Oct 25, 1992 Missing Date: Jan 15, 2008 Age Now: 20 Missing City: Chicago Missing State: IL Case Number: NCMC1088268
Gender: Female
Location Last Seen: ** Photo is shown age
Race: Black
progressed to 18 years ** Yasmin was last seen
Complexion: Medium
at home with her mother's boyfriend.
Height: 5-1 Weight: 125
Circumstances of Disappearance: Unknown.
Hair Color: Black Hair Length: Shoulder Length
Last Seen Wearing: Unknown.
Eye Color: Brown Wear Glasses or Contacts: No
Identifying Marks or Characteristics: Unknown.
Have information about this missing person? Click here to submit information to our Tip Line
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Case Type: Endangered DOB: Apr 07, 1997 Missing Date: Oct 05, 2012 Age Now: 15 Missing City: Decatur Missing State: IL Case Number: NCMC1203949
Gender: Male
Location Last Seen: Unknown.
Race: Black Complexion: Medium
Circumstances of Disappearance: Possible
Height: 5-7
runaway. He may still be in the local area.
Weight: 151 Hair Color: Black
Last Seen Wearing: Unknown.
Hair Length: Short Eye Color: Brown
Identifying Marks or Characteristics: Unknown.
Wear Glasses or Contacts: No Have information about this missing person? Click here to submit information to our Tip Line
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Tori Collins Cell: 773.470.9978 Email: Tcollins@childrenhomeandaid.org
STUDENTS START EARLY TO PREPARE FOR CAREERS IN ENTREPRENEURSHIP The students who attend the after-school program hosted by Children Home + Aid at Benjamin E. Mays Academy in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood will soon be partnering with Escapades Magazine as they learn the business of running a magazine. The Carerra Program Program works with boys and girls from the age of 10 and follows them through high school and eventually to college. The philosophy that guides the program sees youth as "at promise" instead of being "at risk," the program works to develop a participant's capacity and desire to avoid early pregnancy, drug-use and other social ills. The program model provides opportunities for young people to discover interests and develop talents, plus emphasizes education and employment. Escapades will be working with 5th thru 8th graders who are involved in the Job Club component of the program. The goal of Job Club is to develop students who are prepared for workforce; not merely as employees but as employee-partners who will one day fill management positions; which in turn increases the opportunity of them becoming entrepreneurs. ########
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