True Star Magazine Winter 08

WWW.TRUESTARMAGAZINE.COM

WINTER 2008

TREY DAY BACK AT IT AGAIN THE BEST AND WORST

OF 2007

WHAT YOUR SCENT

BET VS. MTV: THE GREAT DEBATE

SAYS ABOUT YOU

SNEAKER MANIA

THE HOTTEST KICKS ON THE STREETS

MONKEY SEE, MONKEY DO

ARE YOU AN INDIVIDUAL?

PERSONALITY QUIZ: WHAT TYPE ARE YOU?

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TRUTH IS 6 BAGGIN ON BAGGY PANTS

By Patricia Bogard

7 IS SCHOOL A FASHION SHOW?

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TECH 20 TECHNOLOGY INTERRUPTING THINKING

By Steven Hall

9 MONKEY SEE, MONKEY DO: Is There a Such Thing as Individuality?

By PJ Johnson

REAL TALK 10 PERSONALITY QUIZ 11 FASHION NO’S FOR THE WINTER SEASON / WINTER HOT SPOTS

By Rosalyn Westerfield

12 IS YOUR STYLE UNIQUE?

By Patricia Bogard

CRANK DAT WHAT?

By Sheeba McBee

35 GOT INK? THRU DA WIRE 22 DREW SIDORA

Everything That Glitters

By Shannon Smith & Sheeba McBee

JULITO MCCULLUM Above the Role

Split personalities face-off on the pages of True Star.

18 SNEAKER MANIA:

A look at some of the hottest kicks on the streets

YOUNG LUV 36 WINTER BOYFRIEND VS. SUMMER BOYFRIEND

By Maya Powe

23 MOVIE REVIEW: The Perfect Holiday

37 THE PERFECT FIRST DATE

By Simone Taylor

By Jermaine Howard

24 HARRIET JACOBS: The Life of a Slave Girl

25 BET VS. MTV:

By Shannon Smith

38 ARE YOU RIGHT FOR ME?

By Valencia Smith

The Great Debate

26 COVER STORY! TREY’S DAY

TEEN BIZ 39 HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR GRADES

28 UNDER THE RADAR:

By Tamika Robinson

By Shannon Smith

Spotlighting Chicago’s underground artist scene

FOR THE SECOND SEMESTER

40 CHOOSING A MAJOR

By PJ Johnson

INSIDE & OUT 31 PROTECTING YOURSELF FROM WINTER SICKNESS

FASHION 14 ALTER EGOS:

By PJ Johnson

By Maya Powe

13 LOVED IT / HATED IT:

The best and worst of entertainment, fashion and gossip in 2007.

WINTER 2008

By Steven Hall

By Tamika Robinson

8 CARELESS TRANSIT ASSOCIATION

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41 RECAP: True Star Youth Financial Symposium

By Shannon Smith

By Kim Friend

32 THE WINNER’S CIRCLE: True Star/ Walgreens AIDS Contest Winners

34 SCENTS-ABILITY:

ON THE COURT 42 GAME TIME: Preparing for Try-Outs

By Nasia Triplett

What Your Scent Says About You

By Shannon Smith & Jade Riggs TRUESTAR MAGAZINE 3

Welcome to True Star Magazine‘s Winter 2008 Individuality Issue. True Star Magazines objective is to cater and address problems in an urban teen’s everyday life. We aim to address those issues that teens have a dire interest in but go untouched by parents because they seem a little controversial. True Star is an urban teen magazine written and produced by urban teens that have an interest in what is published in the magazine.

This issue is sure to be jammed packed with loads of articles, interviews and questionnaires including… a featured Trey Songz article, How to Pick Your Grades Up, Are You Right For Me, Baggy Pants? , Etc, these stories are bound to spark any readers fancy. Here at True Star’s goal is to open up the minds of all its readers to be able to understand that there are innumerable outlets and ways to express yourself, whether it be through fashion, music, writing, dancing, singing or poetry you can never be limited by someone else’s standards. True Star encourage teens to be themselves without limitations, to open up there minds to explore and experience everything that life has to offer all the while being yourself in the process.

Thank You, Rosalyn Westerfield Student Editor

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS J. Na-Tae’ Thompson DeAnna McLeary

Special Thanks to:

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Briahna Gatlin MANAGING EDITOR Deborah Walker ART DIRECTION, DESIGN AND ILLUSTRATION Angel D’Amico INSTRUCTORS Editorial – Kimeco Dodd & Marcus Davis Graphic Design – Pamela Jones & Samantha Barrett Photography – Mireya Acierto & Deshaun Adams Event Planning – Joi Mitchell, Janielle Taylor and Christi Harber Sales & Marketing – Quinn Riley

Editorial Staff King College Prep Shamari Truss Robin Love Jade Riggs Shannon Smith Maya Powe Zahkeya Powell Rakea Perry Ryan Tripp Patricia Bogard Andrea Clark Simone Taylor D. Ashley Thomas Ruqayyah Muhammad Steven Hall Tequitta Lucas Jasmyn Madden Nikita Bachter Sheeba McBee Kylie Price

Editorial Staff Michelle Clark High School Valencia Smith Ashley Anderson Shiara Jackson Sarina Jones Monique Fields Sharonda Barnes

Shaquita Pearson Barbara Amos Jamal Hubbard Jermaine Howard Daniel Howard Jasmine Brown Rashaad Lyons PJ Johnson Emone Moore Nicole McGee Rosalyn Westerfield Maquita Conner Micky Milton

Creative Staff Simeon High School Shareese Arnold Gloria Coleman Devonye Wildon Gerald Fikes Charles Perry Jason Perry Gabriel Ross Makeya Bell Barbara English Anthony Whitehead Javon Williams Courtney Brutus Loreal Nixon Anthony Hamilton Kiyana Mercado

Shavonna Reed Tiera Henderson Shani Patson Tony Ingram Cameron Harris Jasmine Cherry Joy Heard Brion Milsap Sireze Booker

Photography Staff Percy L. Julian High School Ricky Powell Beronica Littlejohn Ashley Washington Revon Gougis Katara Moore Meisha Smith Stacy Rivers Paris Story Althia Marshall Vanardy Marshall Malcolme Townsend Virgil Jones Micilin Jones Briana Baker Kameisha Burns Namara Bocko Kaylor Minor Brittany Gould Darius Caldwell

Jessica Turner David Owensby Jerome Dunkinsel Rashon Snyder Alicia Talmadge Brandon Classberry Kyle Davis Jasmine Kimbrough

Event Planning Staff Harlan Community Academy Dominique Ward Christian Andrews Demetrius Cook Charlie Mays Takeysha Brown Maurice Sutton Jeremy Moore Tyisha Norvell Destine Coleman Antonita Crawford Mikiala Collins Marlon Berkhalter Kanisha Hudson Brian Travis Jovantae Dixon Maurice Crawford Ashley Jefferson Breanna Young Nikko Roden Diamond Haywood

Tyrone Parnell Kristin Henderson Shelly Thomas Brittany Redmond Waldel Tompkins Robin Lucius

Sales & Marketing Staff Hyde Park Career Academy Ashley Jordan Myisha Dixon Gentle Booker Fajr Bruce Deangela Rogers Parisse Blackmon Michael Mahaffy Monique Burch Deatra Barnes Tamiyah Jackson Chivonne Burton Aisha Smart Tyesha Johnson Jermaine Peace Michael Ware Selbie McNair Rhonda Cannady Jovonne Brooks Jeffery Davis Jasmine Clowers

FOR EMPLOYMENT, FREELANCE WRITING OR MODELING OPPORTUNITIES, OR TO FIND A COPY OF MAGAZINE IN YOUR AREA VISIT WWW.TRUESTARMAGAZINE.COM OR CALL 773-221-STAR

STAR 4 TRUESTARTRUE MAGAZINE

TRUTH TRUTH ISIS

BAGGIN ON

BAGGY PANTS

BY PATRICIA BOGARD

What is highly offensive to some and classic to others; can be seen almost anywhere, considered comfy and sexy, and on the verge of being outlawed?

The answer: baggy pants.

A trend started in prisons when inmates weren’t given belts with their uniforms to prevent concealed weapons, baggy pants became a fashion trend popularized in the 90’s by hip hop videos. Now in the “new millennium”, government officials are trying to ban a trend that some consider a cultural symbol.

Beginning in Louisiana, where people can be sentenced to 6 months in jail and a fine of $500, the ban on baggy pants has become a popular topic nationwide. Proposed bans are also under consideration in Trenton and Pleasantville, N.J.; Charlotte, N.C.; Dallas, TX; Baltimore, MD; Duncan, O.K.; Yonkers, N.Y; Atlanta and three other Georgia towns including Rome, Brunswick and Plains.

As cities continue to fight for the ‘baggy pants ban’, other people, like Christopher Olds, dean of students at King College Prep, are opposed to the implementation of the fines.

“As far as the law stepping in, I am opposed to having government sanctions stepping in against freedom of expression,” he says. Although against the impending fines, Olds still believes the baggy pants trend is ridiculous. “It is my understanding that this is a trend starting in prison, so if someone is wearing this trend, are they presenting themselves to the prisons?”

Others, like Morgan Park student Dennis Morgan, agree, and feel this trend is highly offensive and just plain absurd. According to Morgan, sagging pants “are not comfortable 6 TRUESTAR MAGAZINE 6 TRUESTAR MAGAZINE

“BEGINNING IN LOUISIANA, PEOPLE CAN BE SENTENCED TO 6 MONTHS IN JAIL AND A FINE OF $500!” because you have keep pulling them up.”

Additionally, as a way to get young adults attention, a Houston based group named NPR has devised a song called “Pull Your Pants Up”. The song states: “…I think it’s rude but some of y’all think it’s cool… walking around showing your behind to some other dudes…”

While many teens and adults would prefer not to view their peers’ underwear, not everyone is up in arms about the lowslung culprits. Lots of male students say they wear their jeans low because it’s comfortable or pants don’t fit the way they want them to. “They feel better, they don’t feel all uptight on your behind,” said Stanley Blackburn, a Chicago State Junior.

There are also some arguments that the ban is racially driven and is meant to target blacks. “We should be able to wear what we want,” says Andre Jones, a student at Columbia College. “I honestly think that this is just a way for the government to keep black people down. I say this because a lot of black people wear baggy pants.”

A cultural phenomenon, a ridiculous trend, a racially driven movement, or an attack on freedom of expression -- the ban on the sag continues to stir up controversy across the country.

TRUTH IS

Is School A Fashion Show?

BY TAMIKA ROBINSON

ending with Paris and Alvin making amends in the end.

TO THE CONSCIOUS MIND, FASHION IS THE EPITOME OF BEAUTY. IT IS WHAT MAKES YOU LOOK GOOD AND EVEN FEEL GOOD. THROUGHOUT THE YEARS, IT’S THE ONE THING TEENS HAVE BEEN ABLE TO USE AS A SIGN OF SELF-EXPRESSION. Television shows and movies geared toward the teen audience try to give a representation of what high school life is like. The movie “Love Don’t Cost a Thing” starring Christina Milian and Nick Cannon gives a modern day look into the affects of a person’s physical appearance in high school. Alvin Johnson, smart but geeky, has no luck with girls let alone popularity. When the beautiful, rich and popular Paris Morgan wrecks her mother’s car, Alvin seizes the moment to get what he wants. At the cost of fixing the car and getting out of trouble, Paris agrees to be Alvin’s girlfriend and make him popular. Alvin goes from looking like your average nerd to a thug and is noticed by everyone that once ignored him. He soon lets his new found popularity go to his head and starts to diminish Paris’s reputation, bringing their “relationship” to an end. But it wouldn’t be a movie without a storybook

“I’M GUILTY OF JUDGING PEOPLE AT SCHOOL BASED ON WHAT THEY HAVE ON,”

Television and movies are not the only places where you can find this type of portrayal. In high schools all over the country students are being pressured to look their best. “I’m guilty of judging people at school based on what they have on,” admitted a recent high school graduate. One college student felt that, “school has become a fashion show to some rather than others because they want to be accepted. They feel if they dress nice, they’ll fit in the ‘in’ crowd.

They have low self-esteem and want nothing more than to be accepted.”

Looking your best is never a bad thing, but being in an environment such as school, the reason for being there must not be forgotten. With your focus on getting an education, you can achieve great things like a scholarship to the college of your choice. However, if you must wear the latest clothes, remember that it’s who you are on the inside that counts. Your personality makes you who you are, not your clothes.

TRUESTAR MAGAZINE 7

TRUTH IS

CARELESS TRANSIT

ASSOCIATION

BY STEVEN HALL

“FARE INCREASES ARE SCHEDULED TO RISE FROM $2 TO AS HIGH AS $3.25, IN THE EVENT NO FUNDING DEAL IS CONFIRMED.”

P

lacing my two weathered dollars into the mouth of this metallic monster called the CTA; I stroll to the back of a trash cluttered bus, walking by frustrated black elderly, mature, and youthful faces. Squeezing through the sea of CTA commuters to the back of an overcrowded bus, I am tripped up by a tired driver who cares not if we make it to our destination on time. Standing with one hand on the rail, the winter cold caresses the passengers, who, like me, have waited for the long overdue bus, which never seems to be on time.

In 2008, we face Doomsday, when CTA prices will gradually rise, from what many view as the slow decay of government funding and public neglect. Fare increases are scheduled to rise from $2 to as high as $3.25, in the event no funding deal is confirmed.

The CTA will suffer employment and route cuts, as will the commuters. Those who ride the bus will be left with less than satisfactory bus service and an undeserved fee for the “supposed” funding of the ‘Careless Transit Association’.

The funding crisis of the CTA can be attributed to public funding, where CTA officials claim, “Public funding for transit in Northeastern Illinois, which was established by state law 24 years ago, has not kept pace with inflation or with the steadily increasing demands on transit.” Assuming this problem was foreseen, there could have been a comfortable solution for us. Instead, the charades of the CTA fare increase and electing officials are filled with finger pointing, false senses of hope and cooperation, and lack of responsibility -- leaving the commuters as onlookers waiting to pick up the pieces and deal with the consequences.

8 TRUESTAR MAGAZINE

Another candidate for blame may be given to the U.S economy, an economy in which our dollar is less and gas is more. It seems reasonable to say that our financial system would affect the fare increase, and it’s equally reasonable to blame those who don’t have funding adjusted appropriately for the masses.

It is also claimed that students and seniors won’t suffer from the fare increase, however, the Student Riding Permit states: “Valid Monday through Friday, 5:30 A.M. to 8:00 P.M.” This is unacceptable because as CPS students, we should be considered students at all times, whether it’s the weekend or not. This just happens to be another innuendo to our suffering as a result of the CTA and public funding crisis, a reason why compassion for the ‘Careless Transit Association’ is very limited.

Finally, as we await the outcome of the ongoing battle for fare increase and service, as prisoners of war, we yield to the powers of those who control the destiny of our bus that will either lead us to our requested stop, or simply fly past us like the 4x on a winter school day. All of this as a result of pure public funding problems, and seeming disregard and neglect to those who ride the CTA. Why give better service, when you can add a quarter or two?

TRUTH IS

IS THERE A SUCH THING AS MONKEY SEE - MONKEY DO

INDIVIDUALITY?

BY PJ JOHNSON DESIGN IN COLLABORATION WITH JOY HEARD Ever feel like your style is unique? Feel like you have your own individuality?

Don’t know what it means to have individuality? The actual definition of individuality is “the aggregate of qualities and characteristics that distinguish one person or thing from others”. Feel like that fits your character? What are you doing that makes you different? While you may have a certain style, look or swagger, there soon will be someone taking your ideas and saying they thought of it. It’s all a part of society today, Monkey See-Monkey Do. Is there a such thing as individuality? What gives a person their identity?

What distinguishes that person from others? Believe it or not there is no unique idea. There are some people who go to the extreme to try and be different with various tattoos and piercings, but somewhere in the world, there is another person thinking or doing the same thing.

When thinking of individuality, clothes are one of the first things that come to mind. Many people try making their own style of clothes but never think of how many people come up with that same idea. You could make up a style

“THE KEY TO BEING A TRUE INDIVIDUAL IS BEING A LEADER NOT A FOLLOWER.” and others can copy it. Even as teenagers, we seem to go with whatever is hot or the coolest style and tend to fade away from our own individuality.

While some teens say, “there’s only one me,” there are still many people with similarities. The key to being a true individual is being a leader, not a follower. Never follow a crowd. You don’t have to hang out with the popular crowd just to feel good. You can be your own person and do what makes you comfortable. “No one should part with their individuality and become that of another.” - William Ellery Channing. What you think of yourself makes you an individual.

TRUESTAR MAGAZINE 9

REAL REAL TALK TALK

personality quiz quiz personality IN HIGH SCHOOL EVERYONE IS DEFINED BY AN ACTION, A STYLE OR THEIR PERSONALITY. DIFFERENT CIRCUMSTANCES DETERMINE WHAT KIND OF INDIVIDUAL YOU ARE WHETHER ITS GHETTO, POSH, OUTLANDISH OR EVEN RESERVED. TAKE THE TRUE STAR PERSONALITY QUIZ TO TEST YOUR INDIVIDUALITY AND WHERE IT FITS. 1. You’re at the show watching a scary movie and someone is about to get killed.

you:

a. Yell out “RUN girl RUN!” b. Take pictures of yourself in the movie theater. c. Think about the different ways this person could have been killed. d. Cover your eyes.

2. Someone trips in front of you. It’s funny but they seem hurt.

you:

a. Stand there and laugh. b. Take out your mirror and look at how fly you are. c. Run to help them up. d. Act like it never happened.

3. You call your significant other and ask them if they want to kick it with you today. They make up some excuse saying they have to go to their cousin’s birthday party with their mother. Later, you go out with your friends to Red Lobster and see your SO (significant other) kissing someone else.

you:

a. Storm over to them, make a big scene by pushing your SO, telling them its over, and begin to tell their business to everyone in the restaurant. b. Take a look at your guy/girl and say, “I look way better sweetie, you could have done better,” then laugh in their faces. c. Have the waiter give them a note you wrote saying, “it’s over you dumb a#& you didn’t have to lie to me!” d. Don’t confront them, but just keep looking at them from the corner of your eye.

4. You’re in your 5th period class and hear a group of people in the corner talking about your best friend.

you:

a. Check them by saying, “Ya’ll ain’t got nothing else to do but sit up in here and talk about people, that’s why all ya’ll got strait F’s through all the semesters.” b. Say, “Yall just mad my friend looks better—ya’ll just some haters.” c. Tell the teacher. d. You don’t say anything because you’re scared.

5. Your grandma was just robbed by a new student who now attends your school. He goes on bragging about the situation and is waiting for you to approach him.

10 TRUESTAR MAGAZINE

you:

a. Find him and beat him up. b. Walk up to him and say, “I hear what you’re saying! It’s not over!” c. Draw a sorrow card to yourself. d. Immediately run to the bathroom and cry.

6. Your significant other is on the low cheating with your first cousin. You find out and dump them. Your cousin says they still want to pursue your ex.

you:

a. Bleach and burn all your SO’s clothes. b. Tell your cousin to go ahead because you were cheating all along anyway. c. Make a collage of all the pictures you have with your SO. d. Cry, cry and cry some more.

7. You’re at school in a crowded hallway when someone accidentally steps on your brand new shoes.

you:

a. Curse them out and get in a physical altercation with them. b. Politely shove them and say, “Excuse you! These shoes cost more than you do.” c. Make flames out of the dirt spot with your pen. d. Pay no attention and keep walking like nothing happened.

8. You walk in the cafeteria at school and see your significant other hugged up with someone else.

you:

a. Walk up to the two of them and put them both on blast --ultimately ending in a beat down. b. Walk past them but acknowledge they’re sitting together, then go flirt with someone your SO can’t stand. c. Ignore them but go home and create a voodoo puppet of both of them. d. Walk past them, sit by yourself and cry.

9. You and your friends are sitting in the back of the classroom, talking about the best looking females/males in the class. All of a sudden a friend comes up to you and tells you they like you. You like them as well.

you:

a. Yell out in front of everyone “Yeah I like you too.

We need to hook-up.” b. Tell everybody that you knew they liked you. c. Begin a conversation with them. d. Just blush, you’re too scared to reply.

10. You’re wearing a new pair of Air-Force Ones.

You come to school stunting. Then all of a sudden someone walks past with the same shoes on.

you:

a. Shout out “Why you trying to be like me!” b. Smile because you know you look better in them. c. Say to the person “Our shoes are pretty cool!” d. Just act like you didn’t notice.

11. You have to tell your friend something they really need to hear, but you have to wait till lunch to tell them. You find an empty seat next to your friend, but then someone comes along and takes the seat right in front of you, knowing you were there first.

you:

a. Yell and argue with them. If you don’t get the seat, no one does. b. Tell them they aren’t on your level and make your friend get up and go with you. c. Try to tell the person they are wrong but at the same time avoid conflict. d. Decide to tell your friend later, turn and walk away.

mostly a’s: the ghetto You don’t take anything from anyone. You are up-front about everything and keep it real—even when it goes wrong. In actuality, it’s because you have to keep that hardcore outside to protect your soft, gushy insides.

mostly b’s: the posh If you looked up snob in the dictionary, your face would be right next to the definition. You go to all the designer stores and buy only designer stuff, all of this without regard for the rest of the world.

mostly c’s: the outlandish You’re the artsy kid that writes on your shoes in class. You doodled all four years of your high school career. You may be considered a nerd now, but you’ll be cool later.

mostly d’s: the reserved You keep to yourself. You’re reserved and antisocial, sitting in the back of the classroom praying the teacher doesn’t call on you. Sure you have friends, but none of them go to your school.

REAL TALK

Fashion NO’s

for the Winter Season

BY ROSALYN WESTERFIELD

FASHION IS SOMETHING THAT MAKES A PERSON AN INDIVIDUAL, SOMETHING A PERSON CAN SAY IS THEIR OWN, SOMETHING THAT CAN BE CHANGED AND ALTERED

BY THAT PERSON. THEN, THERE ARE THOSE THAT HAVE AN EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TIME DRESSING FOR THE SEASON. HERE ARE SOME TIPS THAT WILL DEFINITELY KEEP TEENS UP ON WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE FASHION WORLD AND TO KEEP YOU OFF OF THAT EVER SO LOATH LIST OF FASHION DISASTER.

No

Oversized

Don’t

Ladies

Grandma sweaters! Honestly those things aren’t cute on a teenager. When you hit the age of 7yrs old, you shouldn’t be caught dead in public with one until you are around the age of Santa Claus himself. try to be cute, bundle up! The last thing you want to do this winter is walk outside in 2 degree weather and then start convulsing because you wanted to look cute. Guys are also included because the very last thing you want to see when you walk down the street is a frozen boy trying to talk to you. SERIOUSLY!

Chinchilla coats are a DEFINITE NO! Especially on boys.

There should not be a single teenage boy out there who thinks it is acceptable to wear a fur coat! You’re asking to get ridiculed in public. , matted fur boots are a NO! If you’re a guy in matted fur boots you should be shot!

Duck Boots

-

NOOOOOOOOO!

THESE ARE RULES THAT YOU SHOULD ABIDE BY TO KEEP YOU OUT OF THE FASHION JAIL CELL AND LOOKING HOT DURING THE WINTER SEASON!

Winter Hotspots

BY ROSALYN WESTERFIELD

WINTER IS DEFINITELY THE SEASON THAT MOST PEOPLE DREAD, BUT HERE ARE SOME PLACES THAT WILL MAKE ANY WINTER A FUN ONE.

HOOTERS: With an overwhelming number of votes, Hooters is a definite winter hotspot

for teens to let loose with great hospitality and those oh- so-very famous ribs. Marcelle of Wells Academy says she likes Hooters because of the “amazing wings and the fun atmosphere”.

has been a Chicago tradition for decades. This is way to spend time with your family and friends with an event to entertain all ages. The major bonus is the fireworks!!!!!

ICE SKATING: Ice Skating is always a fun and inexpensive way to enjoy the winter

season. It’s also a fun place to chill out with friends and an amazing place to make fun of people when they fall! “ I like to push people and make them fall,” says Christian H., a senior at Wells Academy.

MANIA

THE FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS: Downtown Chicago’s Festival of Lights

There are of course other places that people go that are special during the winter season. However, the few listed are a great addition for anyone to add to their winter fun.

TRUESTAR MAGAZINE 11

REAL TALK

“IN A CROWD, IT’S HARD TO FIND SOMEONE WHO STANDS OUT ABOVE THE REST.”

is your style unique?

BY PATRICIA BOGARD Walking down the hallways at school, you can almost always find someone sporting a pair of Air Force 1s, Jordans, or flats paired together with jeans and t-shirt. From LRG to Abercrombie, name brand clothes seem to be plastered on the clothes of many. When most teens think of the word unique, they think of best dressed and often try to mimic celebrities or others they feel are different because they like their style. However, in a crowd, it’s hard to find someone who stands out above the rest and can actually be considered “unique”.

“To have a unique style you have to wear something that expresses your individuality,” says DeAndre Lester, a senior at Simeon Career Academy. “It has to be something that others may view as eccentric or outrageous but be a representation of who you are.”

Uniqueness can be found almost anywhere and with almost anything. A lot of times your uniqueness of style can depend on the area you live in and what the people and your community are used to. “I like to shop for vintage looking clothing so I shop at Old Navy, Nordstrom Rack, Uprise, Rhino, and Synx,” says Daniel Ludlow, a junior at King College Prep.

No matter what your fashion sense is, everyone has their own opinion about their style and the style of others around them. There will always be different interpretations of the word “unique” and everyone will have different feelings about it, so stay true to yourself and your style will always be on top.

crank dat what?

BY SHEEBA MCBEE You’re at a party with your friends and this way too familiar song comes on. The crowd starts stampeding towards the already crowded dance floor.

“Solulja Boy up in this oh, watch me crank and watch me roll, watch me crank dat Solulja Boy and superman that ohhh… now watch me yulllllll!”

The crowd begins to sway back and forth!

Crank dat Solulja Boy is a web-based dance craze that has swept the nation, better yet the world. Solulja Boy, a 17 year old YouTube star, created this modern day ‘Macarena’. The song’s upbeat and catchy lyrics have everyone crankin’ it at parties, weddings -- you name it, and this song is played.

The trend has even gone as far as people creating their own spin-offs of the famous dance and song. “Crank Dat Batman” and “Crank Dat Yank” are two more popular spin-offs. “I check YouTube everyday or every other day to find there is a new one and I’ve go to learn it!” says Shaneequa, a junior at Dusable High School.

Everyone is participating in this dance, from toddlers bouncing about to great-grandparents getting in on the fun. One thing is clear - this dance has become a fad that will go down in the history books and will definitely be one to tell your grandchildren about at those family reunions.

12 TRUESTAR MAGAZINE

LOVED IT

REAL TALK

AND

HATED IT

2007

As 2008 begins, we look back and remember trends - new dance phenomenons, how the whole world is “Crankin”, and big news in entertainment, such as the attempt to shut down Murder Inc. We’ve all had our likes and dislikes, the good, the bad, and the downright ugly. It’s time to separate the best from the worst.

LOVED IT

HATED IT

movies and tv shows

music

• Stomp the Yard

• Mariah Carey

• Making the Band 4

• Jay-Z and Beyonce (tired of gossip)

• Charm School, Flavor of Love, I Love New York

• Brittney Spears news

• American Gangster

• My Lip Gloss is Poppin- SO ANNOYING!

• Why Did I Get Married?

• Aye Bay Bay- song- SO ANNOYING!

• Keyshia Cole –The Way It Is

(And a stupid concept)

music

• T.I getting arrested

• The Carter 3 Sessions, Drought 3 & 4

movies

• Crank Dat Soulja Boy

• Feel the Noise

• Crying Out For Me by Mario

fashion

fashion • Girbaud Straps- Very… played out and cheap

• Flat shoes

• Waist pouches

• Rock Star theme (the song and fashion)

• K-Swiss- What can’t you say about them?

• Designer Glasses- A chance to stunt

• Half Jackets- So last year

and look like a superstar

• Cheap clothing- Quality is key

• Curly locks (hair style) - Easy to maintain

• Kinky Twists

• Plaid fad- Just looks good on anyone

• Boys Capri’s – They look dumb and not masculine

• Bermuda shorts

• Junk Nails- Too ghetto

• Polo’s

• Roca Wear Coats

• Creative Recs- A twist on gym shoes

• Suspenders

• Pea Coats- Young fashionable sophisticated look

• Beauty supply shoes

• VS Pink- The pajama look is cute and so is the dog!

• Bangs and Mo-Hawks

miscellaneous • George Bush- He’s destroying our country and killing our soldiers • “No Homo”- Too many people say it for the wrong reasons and some really do mean “homo” Lames! - They’re everywhere!

TRUESTAR MAGAZINE 13

FASHION

� � � � � � � � � � � � � � Betsy Johnson Dress @ Beta Boutique Tights – American Apparel Baby Phat Wedgies @ DSW Accessories – Vintage

Hot Pink Cashmere Sweater – J. Crew Baby Pink Cotton Tee – J. Crew Winter White Wool Skirt – J. Crew Magenta Tights – J. Crew Striped Socks – J. Crew Yellow Wellies (Boots) – DSW

Photographer – Mireya Acierto Photographer Assistant – DeShaun Adams

Stylist – Dana Anderson Hair – Deborah Walker Makeup – Dyamond Havana

FASHION

� � � �

� � � �

Black Fleece Dress by Junia @ Beta Boutique Hot Pink Henly – Kohls Grey Leggings – Forever 21 Adidas Hi Tops @ Self Conscious

Black Dresses – Nordstroms White Cap Sleeve Tee – American Apparel Tights – American Apparel Boots – DSW Jewelry – Target

TRUESTAR MAGAZINE 15

FASHION

� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �� ��

Red Marching Band Hoodie – Artful Dodger @ Self Conscious Black Jeans – Edward Ark Denim Co. @ Self Conscious Wheat Construction Boots – Timberland @ Self Conscious

Blue Cashmere Sweater – Old Navy Long Sleeve Button Down Shirt – Old Navy Khakis – Old Navy Red Tie – Coach Shoes – Ecco

16 TRUESTAR MAGAZINE

FASHION

� � � � � � � � � �� � � � � � � � Black Blazer – Artful Dodger @ Self Conscious White Tee – Old Navy Sneakers – Nike @ Self Conscious Black Denim Jeans - Ed Ark Denim Co. @ Self Conscious

Bennie Hat – Adidas Sneakers – Puma Socks – Urban Outfitters Gloves – Urban Outfitters Puffy Camouflage Vest – Old Navy Yellow and Grey Striped Tee – American Apparel Undershirt – Old Navy Scarf – Urban Outfitters Bike – Provided by Alejandro Acierto

TRUESTAR MAGAZINE 17

MANIA

ADIDAS ATTITUTE HI

AIR FORCE ONE HI BOBBITO NIKE AIR ZOOM RST

18 TRUESTAR MAGAZINE

REEBOK PUMP VICTORY COURT - VOLTRON

MANIA AINAM REEBOK PUMP OMNI LITE - VOLTRON

MANIA NIKE AIR MAX 90

TRUESTAR MAGAZINE 19

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20 TRUESTAR MAGAZINE

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TECH TECH

“WE ARE ALL BOT AND AB H VICT USERS O F TECHN IMS OLOGY. ”

technology Interrupting Thinking

In a world surrounded by technology, it seems as if ours is getting smaller and smaller. Technology makes concentration a merely impossible task, as you have multiple electronics that conveniently ring or interject a “YOU GOT MAIL” when you need to complete work. These non-stop disruptions have also made privacy a luxury, as our lives have been digitalized with cell phones, and the most grim -- the internet.

In this age, mental well-being consisting of knowledge, faith, beliefs, selfesteem, and concentration are constantly being attacked and bombarded by technology. Technological hurdles, which our minds must overcome to concentrate, provide obstacles which are an apparent reason to why people turn off electronics to do tasks. While technology seems to make life more efficient, it also castrates us against the same grain, which makes living that much more difficult. As easy as it is to achieve imminent accomplishments with, it is equally successful at producing incompetence without it.

BY STEVEN HALL

Being a teen, electronics can be the best representation of our world.

We’re occupied with schoolwork, social lives, jobs, and sometimes even ourselves. We need technology to keep up with things going on around us, but when these things hinder, limit or distract us from fulfilling our obligations, there’s a problem. We are all both victims and abusers of technology, but without it, would life be less complicated, more genuine and full of effort than the electronically, artificial barrier that we’ve set between each other and ourselves?

In all, though technology castes an endless amount of ways to showcase and broadcast critical and intelligent thinking, it can equally interrupt it; these are the obstacles and progressions we have to deal with. As the saying goes, ‘a creation is only as great as its creator’, now we must decide if we will let these things shift our goals and work ethic, us the ever-changing thinkers.

TRUESTAR MAGAZINE 21

THRU THRU DA DA WIRE WIRE

Drew Sidora EVERYTHING THAT GLITTERS

BY SHEEBA MCBEE & JASMYN MADDEN “This is my passion. If I’m making money or not making money, I love what I do – I wouldn’t rather wake up and do anything else.” Ever since the age of 12, Drew Sidora has been determined to earn her star in Hollywood’s spotlight. A Chicago native, Drew grew up yearning to be in the spotlight landing her first major gig at 12. Despite her seemingly fresh face in Hollywood, Ms. Sidora has many films under her belt including Wild Hogs, the Killing of Wendy, B Girl, Farm House, B Boy Blues, blockbuster hit Step Up and most recently on the CW’s hit sitcom The Game where she plays herself.

Everything wasn’t always glorious for Drew, she has learned very valuable lessons. “My dad wanted me to go to medical school so I could take over his practice; But when I went to LA, I had to sleep on the floor; my sister and I were living out of hotels. Once [my parents] realized it wasn’t a phase, they respected it. I made a deal with my parents and said that I needed to be in LA to make it happen, so they said, if you get straight A’s, we’ll let you go during the summer. I was so determined I graduated early. “ Aside from her blooming acting career, Drew is also a spokesperson for Liz Claiborne’s LOVE IS NOT ABUSE campaign, filming a documentary in Africa and is involved with the Sickle Cell Disease Association of Illinois. Drew was drawn to the LOVE IS NOT ABUSE campaign because of a personal relationship. “I was in a relationship that turned bad and there were a lot of signs and things I could have noticed, but going through that, I feel a personal connection with what their doing.” Even as a teen, Drew was influenced by her father to help others. “Every year we do a golf outing to raise money, but it’s difficult to even get people to sign up and donate $10. Every year, we hope to make it bigger and better.”

Drew has proven that she is not only an actress, but an accomplished singer, songwriter and dancer. Considered the “Chi Town’s Princess”, the first single entitled “Stop,” of Drew’s highly anticipated album is slated to drop this summer. With many well-known songwriters and producers, the album features many collaborations. “I’ve worked with Neyo, Rodney Jerkins and Dave Hollister. To be able to work with those people, I feel like my album is going to be crazy.“ 22 TRUESTAR MAGAZINE

Julito ABOVE THE ROLE

BY MAYA POWE Julito McCullum is a not your ordinary 17 year old actor. Not only is he young and talented, he also represents a very small number of Afro-Latino actors. As a child, Julito always had a passion for entertaining. At the age of 12, he started as Alicia Keys background dancer. After realizing dancing had run its course, Julito set a higher goal. “It’s something cool to do as far as exercise and things like that, but I couldn’t do it for the rest of my life.

Getting involved in the acting scene didn’t happen overnight. “When I first started acting, I wasn’t thinking I was going to be on one of the biggest shows in the world at the time, so I was doing it just to have something to do. I didn’t really know anything about acting, so I went to audition for my agent and the next day they called me back to go audition for the movie Honey (with Jessica Alba).” Though Julito didn’t get the role, he didn’t get discouraged. He continued to work hard and landed a role in Local Boys, a show produced by Spike Lee. Shortly after, Julito began doing press and red carpet events, making his presence known to the acting world. Julito then landed a small role in Akeelah and the Bee as Akeelah’s brother, Terrence, which many considered to be his big break. Other roles played

by Julito include Namond Brice of the Wire and Lafayette of Miracle’s Boys.

In many of the roles played by Julito, he is usually a boy from the hood.

However, he feels it is also necessary to play other roles. “I took the role in the Wire, because it was hood, but it had a story to it. It wasn’t just an ordinary hood kid, I was crying and showing emotion. My team is now working on helping me cross over. I got a movie coming out called Big Brother with Shawn Williams Scott (from American Pie) and it’s different.

It’s not just a hood guy, it’s funny, it’s got a storyline. You can’t play a hood cat all your life – people will look at you and stereotype, so I want to show them that I really can act. That’s the problem in this industry, they think every guy that’s black with braids can only play that hood role.”

THRU DA WIRE

MOVIE REVIEW Perfect Holiday T

he ‘Perfect Holiday’ is a heartwarming movie for the entire family.

“We feel really proud of this movie – We feel like we have been one of

BY SIMONE TAYLOR

the companies to deliver a wonderful, family, holiday movie, with all that Christmas Magic that people look forward to as kids,” said Queen Latifah.

Gabrielle Union plays Nancy, the ex wife of rapper J Jizzy (played by Charlie Murphy). Nancy is also a single mother of three who spends so much time on her children she forgets about herself. All she wants for Christmas is a compliment and with that confidential information, Benjamin (played by Morris Chestnut) ends up being the special man who gives her the compliment. They fall for each other completely but Chestnut is in for a ride when Nancy’s son realizes his plan to get his mom and dad back together is not going as planned.

Comedian Faizon love adds to the comedy, along with Katt Williams, whose role is more serious but definitely sarcastic. Other stars include Jill Marie Jones (Girlfriends) and Rachel True (Half and Half). And you can’t forget about Queen Latifah and Terrence Howard, who add that Christmas Magic as the narrators of the story.

The Perfect Holiday was recently premiered at Chicago’s I.C.E Chatham 14 Theater (87th and the Dan Ryan), who celebrated their 10th anniversary. Husband and wife team Alisa and Donzell Starks (who own the African American venue) were excited to give movie-goers a chance to preview such a great family movie. Leading star Gabrielle Union also shares her thoughts about the film. “Throughout the movie you can expect to be moved, see a different kind of family that we’re not really used to seeing on film, and just have a great time that you can take your whole family to -- from the toddlers, to grandma and her friends at home.”

TRUESTAR MAGAZINE 23

THRU DA WIRE

Harriet Jacobs Life of a Slave Girl

E

VER READ A STORY AND IN YOUR MIND, THE WORDS JUMPED RIGHT OFF THE PAGE? EVER READ A BOOK AND WISHED THERE WAS A LIVE VERSION OF IT? Lucky for the readers of Harriet Jacobs’ autobiography, their wish is coming true. Thanks to Lydia Diamond, Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl is being brought to life.

Diamond, who also adapted Tony Morrison’s The Bluest Eye in 2005, has rejoined forces with director Hallie Gordon to create this fascinating production. Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl is the enthralling story of Harriet Jacobs, a former slave who endured years of hardships, from sexual harassment from her master to living in a tiny crawlspace for seven years. After finally gaining her freedom in the 1840s, and after being convinced by friends, Jacobs decided to tell her story and write her autobiography.

24 TRUESTAR MAGAZINE

After discovering Harriet Jacobs’ story and reading it on several occasions, Diamond felt truly inspired.

“It’s such a heartbreaking story, but I also find it inspiring. She was the first African-American to publish a novel.” Diamond explains how the story appealed to her at different stages in her life. “I felt kinship to her and was attracted to the fact that she was a writer, she was an artist -- she was searching for her voice. I was struck with her strength and she felt like such a grownup, and I felt like such a little girl. I imagine when I read it ten years from now, I’ll have a different understanding.”

Jacob’s story is a platform to educate people on how many slaves were very knowledgeable about the things we often take for granted. It’s not easy bringing such a touching story from the page to stage. “It’s difficult,” says Nambi E. Kelley, who

BY SHANNON SMITH

plays Harriet in the stage production. “You have to go there, because we have to tell the truth.”

When this compelling story hits the stage February 5- March 2, 2008, at the Steppenwolf Theatre located at 1650 N. Halsted, audiences will be in for a historical and educational treat. The talented performers blessed with the opportunity to portray this story include: Christoph Horton Abiel, Kenn E. Head, Errón Jay, Leslie Ann Sheppard, Celeste Williams, Genevieve VenJohnson and Sean Walton, who all hope to do Harriet Jacobs’ story justice. While educating audiences on the powerful strength of a young slave woman, these professional actors plan to broaden minds about slavery -- both the horrors and the victories -- through the Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl stage play.

THRU DA WIRE

��� W

hen Black Entertainment Television, better known as BET debuted on October 1, 1983 the premise was simple: Provide quality programming targeted toward African Americans.

However, in the last 25 plus years, BET has replaced the word quality with quantity by eliminating a day full of videos and the Sunday staple of Bobby Jones and adding sitcoms, reality shows, game shows, live countdown shows, news shows and award shows. Growth is a natural progression for a successful network, however in the last few months BET has begun to resemble another station with a different acronym and audience.

Music Television known as MTV launched on August 1, 1981 with a different mission: 24 hour music. Today, MTV has veered towards the reality television phenomenon with shows like Punk’d and The Hills. Following a format similar to its musical cousin. BET has lost some of it’s individuality compared to it’s humble beginnings in 83’, to follow that of its predecessor.

Both MTV and BET have a large demographic and different principles but their shows have common characteristics. With the obvious similarities, what exactly is BET promoting, to be similar to other people? What happened to their individuality? Today, many African-Americans are turned off by BET network. Porsche Harrell from Whitney Young H.S. watches Hell Date because the situations are funny, but realizes the change in the network. “It really has. They are just trying to do too much and compete with MTV.” College student, Arianna Smith agrees with Porsche. “I don’t like BET anymore, because their becoming just like MTV.” Maybe the recent change in BET is due to the fact that both networks are owned by mega companyViacom. Viacom gained control of BET, when Robert Johnson sold it in 2001. While they’re trying to do new things, BET executives are causing the network to lose their viewers. They might want to re-think their shows and go back to the basics of providing “quality” programming for African-Americans: the premise they were primarily aiming for.

THE GREAT DEBATE

BY SHANNON SMITH

How do they match up? MTV vs. BET MTV SHOWS

BET SHOWS

THE REAL WORLD

COLLEGE HILL

NEXT

HELL DATE

BOILING POINTS TRL

SOCIALLY OFFENSIVE BEHAVIOR (S.O.B.) 106TH AND PARK

LAGUNA BEACH

BALDWIN HILLS

TRUESTAR MAGAZINE 25

BY SHANNON SMITH

F resh from a two-year hiatus, Trey Songz is back with a new attitude and a new album. Feeling the love from the first album by his solid fan base, Songz was truly inspired for his sophomore album. “I got a lot of love on the first album. I’ve got hardcore fans that inspire me.”

Working with veteran producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Trey was ready to learn. “There was great production, great singing- it was a great learning experience.” Fans that expect the young, boyish Trey Songz are in for a treat, a more mature, creative artist. Every track tells a story from the up-tempo hits like “Can’t Wait,” to the deeper, more serious tracks like “Store Run.” Featured on many mixtapes, Trey Songz crept up on music audiences with his melodic voice over smooth, R & B hardcore beats. According to Trey, being on mixtapes is “a way to show creativity and helps as a musical outlet.” According to

26 TRUESTAR MAGAZINE

him, “everyone does it now and it’s a way to get your music out there.” This advertising mechanism has helped launch this Virginia native into R&B superstardom.

Do not be fooled by all the opportunities and success, Trey Songz is still a down-to-earth country boy who enjoys the little down time he has after constant traveling, performing and hitting the hot spots every night. “I draw, play basketball and cook- thanks to my mama and grandma.” So what would this R&B artist be doing if he wasn’t a singer? “Trying to become a singer-I don’t think I could do anything else.”

THRU DA WIRE

TRUESTAR MAGAZINE 27

THRU DA WIRE

Under The

Radar

christian rich musical style We write and produce all our music.

Our sound is so new and refreshing. We mix hip-hop, R&B, electronic and dance. Our art form is a new lane.

ariana musical style I am hip-hop. I am R&B. I am soul. I am music.

uniqueness I work really hard to offer my audience the best vocal performance that I have to give. I also spend a lot of time on condi-

uniqueness Our music is made to hit your soul. Those

tioning my body and dancing while singing to perfect my overall show.

address.

goal My primary goal is longevity. I want to establish and maintain

feelings you have about self-esteem, fame, love and conflict are what we

goal Our goal as artist is to break barriers and be at the top in

a career in the music business. I’ve written several songs on my current project and I also plan to work with producers to learn more about the

all our expertise. This music is a gateway to the other ventures we have

technical aspects of building a song. My goal is to be an educated and

arranged.

well-developed musician.

influence No one really, we sound too unique. Its like when

influence I want them to remember the words to the songs.

Prince was creating his songs early in the 70’s, you couldn’t compare him

I want them to say, “that girl can sing,” but I also want the lyrics to impact

to anyone. The audience just knew he had a classic sound.

them. I hope to write songs that twenty years later are still a hit.

age

age 17

25

myspace.com/crichmusic, various blogs, google it!

28 TRUESTAR MAGAZINE

www.arishouse.com and www.myspace.com/thetrueariana

THRU DA WIRE

Under The

Radar

shayla g musical style I have a very singsong flow but my

lyrics are extremely intricate and my songs are catchy. There aren’t any boundaries, I can still be a pioneer and express myself exactly how I want to without conforming. I hate being trendy.

vice verse

uniqueness I don’t follow any formula. I just do me. If that

means doing a six bar verse with a twelve bar bridge and a six-teen bar hook, I do that!! I’m a free spirit.

goal I plan to raise the bar on female emceeing. We’ve been symbolized as sexual creatures and not the innovative, creative, emotional

beings that we are. I want to prove that there are female 2Pacs, Jay-z’s, Biggies and Lil Wayne’s left in this industry. I want to be a role model for adolescents, teens and young adults trying to make their way in the world. I want to be a legend and an inspiration to the new generation.

influence I want people to remember that I was real and

that every line of ever bar was well throughout and from real life. I want people to be able to laugh, cry and think to my music.

musical style My style is strictly Chicago!! I grew up lovin’ hip-hop from both coasts and being from Chicago. We were in the middle of everything.

uniqueness My persistence and determination is to be the best, to put the best music out there, that’s how hip-hop use to be.

goal My goal is to make good music, to make you as listeners rewind my joints and to have the world loving my music.

influence

I want people to remember that it was true and

that you could feel it.

age 27

age 20 ?

www.myspace.com/FnFShaylaG

www.myspace.com/vicesverses and Dirty District Vol.3 in stores now!!

TRUESTAR MAGAZINE 29

30 TRUESTAR MAGAZINE

The Winner’s Circle:

HIV/AIDS ARTS AND LITERACY CONTEST IN FALL 2007, TRUE STAR PARTNERED WITH WALGREENS TO SPONSOR AN HIV/AIDS ARTS AND LITERACY CONTEST. TEENS SUBMITTED ESSAYS, PHOTOGRAPHY, POETRY AND ARTWORK TO SHOW HOW THEY WOULD COMBAT HIV/AIDS IN THE URBAN COMMUNITY. WINNERS RECEIVED A $1000 SCHOLARSHIP AND ARE FEATURED HERE IN THE PAGES OF TRUE STAR!

Shantrice Hartson

AGE: 16 HIGH SCHOOL: Corliss WHAT WAS YOUR INSPIRATION BEHIND YOUR PHOTO? My inspiration was to prevent HIV/ AIDS in my community. I wanted to make people know that it’s bad and to use protection.

IF MONEY AND RESOURCES WEREN’T AN ISSUE, WHAT WOULD YOU DO TO HELP PREVENT HIV/AIDS? I would try to find a cure for it. Even though people still may not be aware of the risk, I’d still try to help them.

WHY DO YOU THINK TEENS ARE STARTING TO HAVE SEX AT SUCH A YOUNG AGE? I think it has a lot to do with peer pressure. If there are people who are constantly telling you that sex is everything, you’re going to start believing it and you’re going to become sexually active. I also think it has a lot to do with how a person is raised. If your parents are raising you to believe that as long as you use protection, sex is fine, then naturally you’re going to have sex. It also just depends on the teenager.

Kiyana Mercado

AGE: 16 HIGH SCHOOL: Simeon WHAT WAS YOUR INSPIRATION BEHIND YOUR LAYOUT? I was just trying to encourage people to stop having unprotected sex because there is no cure for it.

There are a lot of people walking around with HIV/AIDS and they don’t even know it.

HOW DO YOU THINK TEENS CAN HELP COMBAT HIV/AIDS? I think teens can help by writing about it, forming groups like teen programs, and by talking to other people and their friends about it.

HOW DOES MEDIA ENCOURAGE TEENS TO HAVE SEX? The media encourages teens to have sex mostly through TV. They show people that there is nothing else Black people can do. They display this in the videos and different shows

32 TRUESTAR MAGAZINE

Ashlee Jordan

AGE: 17 HIGH SCHOOL: Hyde Park WHAT WAS YOUR INSPIRATION BEHIND YOUR ESSAY? My inspiration was the African-American people and their struggles and how they affect us.

HOW DOES HIV/AIDS AFFECT YOUR COMMUNITY? It affects my community because no one knows who has it and its not public information. So, anyone can have it and people put themselves at risk every time they have unprotected sex.

A lot of people in my community need to be more aware of the disease and start having safer sex.

IS THE LACK OF SEX-EDUCATION A MAJOR PROBLEM? That was my main message in my essay. I felt that education is definitely a problem. People don’t understand that it isn’t temporary. There is no cure for it and I think if people knew that they’d be a lot safer.

Justine Patton

AGE: 17 HIGH SCHOOL: Michelle Clark WHAT WAS YOUR INSPIRATION BEHIND YOUR POEM? I just tried to look at how it affects the Black community. I looked at family life, teenage girls, and just people in general. It really affects our community because people aren’t getting tested yet they’re becoming more sexually active. They need to know that pregnancy isn’t the only consequence.

HOW TO YOU THINK TEENS CAN HELP COMBAT THIS PROBLEM? They can help by encouraging others to be abstinent, using protection, and encouraging their partners to get tested.

IF MONEY AND RESOURCES WEREN’T A PROBLEM, WHAT WOULD YOU DO TO HELP FIGHT HIV/AIDS? I would have a testing day at all the high schools in Illinois. Part of it is being embarrassed about having such a bad disease but it is also about being smart.

TRUESTAR MAGAZINE 33

�������������� What Your Scent Says about you

BY SHANNON SMITH AND JADE RIGGS

“Fragrance speaks volumes about you, without you having to speak a word. It’s your walking biography,” says fragrance expert Marian Bendeth.

According to Bendeth, a person’s preference of a scent depends on his/her mood or in large part to his/her personality. Curious as to what your scent reveals about you? Here’s what each category of fragrance says:

ORIENTAL SCENTSS

CITRUS SCENTS

FRUITY SCENTS

Orange, Grapefruit, and Lemon

Blackberry, Raspberry, and Peach

Vanilla, Amber, and Nutmeg You are a creative, dramatic, traditional, elegant, academic person who likes to be alone.

Try L.A.M.B by Gwen Stefani to get your creative juices flowing.

You are a highly organized, disciplined person who loves to plan things out; a perfectionist.

Try Unforgivable by Sean Combs to keep you in line.

You are very spontaneous, a party animal, a team player, and a person who loves to giggle.

Try DKNY’s Be Delicious.

FLORAL SCENTS

WOODY SCENTS

Lilies, Freesia, Gardenia, and Jasmine

Sandalwood, Cedarwood and Longwood

You are a sweet person, loyal to friends and you love to beautify!

Scents like Calvin Klein’s Eternity will keep your spirits lifted.

You are a very calm, cautious, traditional person. Try GUESS Man

by GUESS.

So the next time you walk into Bath and Body Works, think about what type of person you’re buying for instead of frantically guessing what fragrance you think they will like!

34 TRUESTAR MAGAZINE

INSIDE & OUT

BY PJ JOHNSON

“I wished I could’ve waited. …I think about how my tattoos are going to look when I get older.”

O

VER THE LAST COUPLE OF YEARS, TATTOOS HAVE BECOME INCREASINGLY POPULAR AMONG TEENS. ALTHOUGH IT’S AN ILLEGAL PROCEDURE FOR MINORS, MORE AND MORE TEENS ARE FINDING A WAY AROUND THE LAWS. AS THE POPULARITY OF TATTOOS CONTINUES TO RISE, ARE TEENS JUST FOLLOWING THE TREND? Some believe this rise in inking is due to rappers’ influence on their audience. Take hip hop megastar Lil Wayne for example, whose upper body is completely covered with tattoos. “Hip Hop artists will always influence their listeners,” says Tierra Willis, a Robert Morris student. “If not with their lyrics, then with their lifestyles and habits because that’s all [teens] are exposed to.”

This exposure is causing some people to loosen up when it comes to body art. When asked about tattoos in the workplace, Otis Gatlin says, “They’re becoming more acceptable and more people are getting them. Times have changed.”

Another reason for the surge in tattoos is that it’s seen as a form of self expression by teens. Many consider tattoos art and tend to make their body a type of sculpture filled with designs. Some people have tattoos that mean something special -- pictures of family members who have passed away, or key words or phrases that mean something to them.

Although some teens use tattoos to convey their creativity, others get tattoos just to have them, not really thinking of what is behind them.

Tattoos are a popular thing right now but some teens are in a rush to get them, and some end up wishing they didn’t have them. Deldrick Upchurch, who attends Marshall High School, says, “I wished I could’ve waited because now I think about how my tattoos are going to look when I get older.” Cameron Jones, a junior from Lincoln Park, agrees. “Many people find tattoos to be cool, but only for now.

Popularity lasts only for so long.”

While tattoos are hot right now, 10 years from now there’s going to be something else that’s hot. First, people wanted body piercing, now tattoos…so what’s next? If you want a tattoo, consider something that makes you stand out. Be your own individual. Don’t just get a tattoo because it’s popular.

Remember, it’s on your body for the rest of your life.

TRUESTAR MAGAZINE 35

YOUNG YOUNG LUV LUV

d n e i r f y o B r e m Sum d n e i r f y o B r e t Win

vs.

BY MAYA

POWE

Y

ou might not have known this, but there’s a difference between a winter boyfriend, and a summer boyfriend. Some say a winter boyfriend wants to have a girlfriend…but doesn’t want a girlfriend for a long time. Though this is not always true, in most cases it is. The “winter” boyfriend dates by “quarters” and tends to go through about four to six girlfriends a year. While dating in the winter, he wants someone to cuddle with and keep warm. However, many times when the spring/summer comes around, he doesn’t want the commitment of a girlfriend. He feels the summer is the perfect time to pursue other options and not be tied down to one person.

The “summer” boyfriend, however, is a little different. They tend to be a bit more loyal. In most cases, the summer boyfriends tend to want to stick around more. When dating in the summer, he wants someone he can hang out with (and is not afraid to be seen around other girls). Even though summer boys are still aware that there are more fish in the sea, in most cases, he’s content with the girl he’s with. The “summer” boyfriend only has one or two girlfriends a year.

nd: ter Boyfrie

Win istics of a r e t c a r a h C

Likes to cuddle Always wants to hang out around the house Content with seeing you once or twice a week Usually looking for a short term relationship Wants a relationship before he actually knows you

36 TRUESTAR MAGAZINE

nd:

er Boyfrie

Ch

m s of a Sum ic t is r e t c a ar

Not afraid of commitment Likes to hang out outside the house Wants to see you almost every day Usually looking for a long term relationship Wants friendship before a relationship

The Perfect

BY JERMAINE HOWARD

H

First Date

ave you ever experienced a perfect first date? The first date is one of the most important steps in starting a new relationship. The most difficult thing is making your first date “Perfect”, finding the perfect location, setting the mood and conversation. A date should start at the movies along with good conversation and interaction and end with getting a bite to eat.

What do you expect to get out a first date? Girls want their first date to be social. On the other hand guys want their first date to be physically romantic.

Adults say that a first date should be both, less physical but romantic.

Guys, meeting the parents will always get you cool points with your date as well as provide parents with reassurance their daughter is safe. How do you keep the mood? The mood is important, making your date feel comfortable gives them a sense of your consideration.

Either way, the first date sets the tone for the remainder of the relationship and will definitely determine if a second date is in the future. Even though there is no handbook for the perfect first date, first impressions always tell a lot about a person or sometimes hide who the real person is.

TRUESTAR MAGAZINE 37

YOUNG LUV

BY VALENCIA SMITH

It is hard being in a serious teen

relationship. Most teens are attracted to the wrong people for all the wrong reasons. Are girls dating boys because of their looks and money? What’s the deal with fine boys with unattractive females?

Teen relationships are hard because you think you have found the right person, at least you think so. “I think that girls date boys for their money and looks because if they don’t have the looks they will have the money to fall back on, there isn’t a down fall to that,” said Jasmine Brown 16,a student at Michelle Clark high school.

For most teens, opposites attract. If you were with a person that acted like you, chances are it wouldn’t last long. “Most boys are attracted to unattractive girls because they tend to treat you better and they have good personalities,” said 38 TRUESTAR MAGAZINE

“IT IS HARD BEING IN A SERIOUS TEEN RELATIONSHIP FOR MOST TEENS, BECAUSE THEY ARE ATTRACTED TO THE WRONG PEOPLE FOR ALL THE WRONG REASONS.” 15-year-old Jermaine Howard, a student at Michelle Clark high school. Two people who talk a lot wouldn’t really work because there would be no one listening but on the other hand, a talkative person and a calm, patient person would be good together because you always have someone listening.

TEEN TEENBIZ BIZ

BY TAMIKA ROBINSON

So, first semester didn’t start off the way you had hoped. You started off doing great, but somewhere down the line you fell off. Even worse, if you don’t do better second semester, you’ll have to live with those horrible grades on your transcript for a very long time.

If you have ever wondered how to get back on track and stay that way, start preparing now.

Begin by looking at your grades from the previous semester and from there, decide what classes you need to improve in. Determine your academic weaknesses and strengths and find areas that you need to work on. By becoming aware of your strengths and weaknesses you can better attack your problem.

Talk to your teacher about the problems you are having in that particular subject. If math is not your forte’, then seek your math teacher for help. You are not your teacher’s only student, so he/she may not know you need their help.

If your teacher suggests tutoring, bring assignments that you have received bad grades on to serve as tutoring material. Also, ask for

extra work/credit that can help improve your grades. This not only shows your teacher you are serious about improving, but it will also help boost that low grade.

“Study more and find peers that are academic achievers to study with,” said Shevonda Williams, an elementary school teacher in Mississippi.

One student said he improves his grades by having “dedication and a change of work ethic.” “Tackle the work before it tackles you, set goals to achieve and embed it in your mind that you are going to get it done. That mindset gives you the confidence to accomplish anything.” “The more you put into your studies the better you’ll do in school,” said another student.

Doing well in school takes commitment. If you are not committed to doing better and taking the necessary steps, you will continue to fail. You must do well in school if you want to go to a good college and even get a good job. This is your life and your future. The only person affected by the choices you make is yourself, so make the choice to improve in school.

TRUESTAR MAGAZINE 39

Choosing A MAJOR

TEEN BIZ

Textiles, Apparel & Merchandising

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College of Business Accountancy

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College of Visual & Performing Arts

Sports ManagementCollege of Education Nutrition Dentistry, Medicine, Osteopathy

fashion

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Family and Child Studies ������������������������

Academic Decathlon 2008

Citywide First Round Competition

Objective Tests Chicago Vocational Career Academy Saturday, January 26, 2008

City Championship Competition

Speech, Interview & Essay Tests Lindblom Math & Science Academy Tuesday, February 5, 2008, and Wednesday, February 6, 2008

Objective Tests Dunbar Vocational Career Academy Saturday, February 16, 2008 Office of High Schools and High School Programs 125 South Clark, 12th Floor David G. Gilligan, Chief Officer

For more information, call (773) 553-3593

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Geology & Environmental Geosciences

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College of Health and Human Sciences

� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �� 40 TRUESTAR MAGAZINE

BY PJ JOHNSON

Veterinary Medicine

English

Foreign Languages & Literatures Geography History

MAJORS ARE PART OF THE PROCESS THAT LEADS TO EARNING A DEGREE.

C

OLLEGE LIFE! IT’S THE START OF A NEW BEGINNING, THE FOUNDATION OF A CAREER. MANY NEW STUDENTS ARE JUST HAPPY TO STEP FOOT ON A COLLEGE CAMPUS. IN ACTUALITY, THERE’S A PROCESS THAT GOES ALONG WITH PLANNING COLLEGE. SOME PEOPLE SEEK HELP FROM THEIR HIGH SCHOOL COUNSELORS. SOME SCHOOL COUNSELORS GIVE VALID INFORMATION ON COLLEGES, HOWEVER, THEY DON’T TELL YOU WHAT TO DO, THEY SUGGEST THINGS. One of the biggest questions that students tend to not answer or spend little time thinking about is: choosing a major. Majors are part of the process that leads to earning a degree. The first step in choosing a major is to take the time to really sit and think about the type of majors schools offer and what you would like to study.

Know your strengths. What you’re good at should be the first priority.

Never choose a major that you‘re weak in because you can struggle. Also make sure the college you plan on attending has the major(s) you are considering.

Beauty Fitts of Lincoln Park High School says, “When I was thinking about college, I first had to decide what to major in because I had to make sure that all the colleges I would like to attend had it”.

Not only do some students chose majors based off their strengths, but their passion. “You should always do what you love,” says Ticara Davis, who will be majoring in music/business management.

Choosing a major is perhaps the most important decision in a persons’ life. While a major doesn’t guarantee a future or career, it will help get job opportunities after finishing college. Choosing a major just lays the foundation of a persons’ career. So choose correctly.

True Star Youth Financial Symposium

BY SHANNON SMITH You’re 16 years old and your parents just gave you a checking account. Not only do you not really have any money, but you don’t even know what a checking or savings account is. Enter True Star’s first Youth Financial Symposium, sponsored by Harris Bank and Shore Bank.

Designed to educate youth on the importance of financial upkeep, The Next Check event was created by the Event Planning Team of True Star. Teens and parents were treated to an informative event at the Gary Comer Center, hosted by Dave Jeff, Founder/Owner of PHLI Worldwide, along with an energetic teen boy and girl. The discussion panel consisted of entrepreneurs and bankers, including Darryl Newell (SVP Shore Bank), Shaakira Mason (VP Harris Bank), Nicole Jones (Founder/Owner, Sensual Steps), and Phillip Craig (2005 Winner NFTE Business Plan Competition).

The big surprise of the afternoon was the special appearance of Mr. Glen Toby, a sports and entertainment agent, who has worked with the likes of artists such as 50 Cents.

A very wealthy entrepreneur, Toby shared his heartfelt and inspirational rag to riches story. The youth and parents were offered plenty of valuable advice on how to open and maintain both checking and savings accounts, the importance of saving money, and how to start your own business. After attending this event, most teens will think again before splurging on a new outfit and save those pennies to become the next young millionaire.

TEEN BIZ

ON ON THE THE COURT COURT

THE KEY TO A SUCCESSFUL TRY-OUT OR ANYTHING HAVING TO DO WITH ATHLETICS IS PREPARATION.

Game Time:

preparing for try-outs

BY NASIA TRIPLETT

Preparing for try-outs can sometimes be “heart-pounding”. You’re wondering what you should do to get in shape. What will the coaches look for? Do you have what it takes to make it through tryouts? Don’t panic, calm down. Try-outs serve many purposes but aren’t meant to stress you out. The key to a successful try-out or anything having to do with athletics is preparation. Here are some tips on how to prepare to make it through try-outs. If you follow these simple tips, there’s a good chance you’ll shine on the team.

Don’t forget to walk in try-outs with your head high, confidence and do your best because, “You may not get a second chance to make the first impression”.

42 TRUESTAR MAGAZINE

PREPARING FOR TRY-OUTS * Get in shape. Be sure to start at least a month before tryouts approach. * Eat healthy and get plenty of rest the week before. * Every time you practice, do all the moves full out and sharp. * If there are forms that need to be signed prior to the clinic, have them completed in advance. * Talk to past members and see what try-outs were like last year. * Have a positive attitude. * Never quit (push yourself).

DRESSING FOR TRY-OUTS * Gym shoes. * Shorts. * No jewelry.

: -(

means unhappy.

: - o means surprised.

: -) means banks at harris.

Harris has been serving families and businesses since 1882.

And with over 200 locations throughout Chicagoland, we’re here to help keep you smiling. Whether it be personal banking, wealth management or business banking, Harris is here to help.

Chicago 111 W. Monroe St. 312-461-2121

Harris® is a trade name used by Harris N.A. and its affiliates. Member FDIC

TRUESTAR MAGAZINE 43 harrisbank.com

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