True Star Magazine Winter 10

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Jeremih The Writer

WINTER 2010

The Musician The Gentleman

OUT IN THE OPEN Gay Teachers WINNERS’ CIRCLE

Expression Against HIV/AIDS Contest Finalists

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REAL TALK 8 SIMPLE TACTICS FOR A GREAT PERSONAL STATEMENT

By Ashley Mathis

9 DOESN’T HOLD ME BACK

By Maya Powe

AFTER I MET A BOY BOOK REVIEW

By Bria Cross

10 CENSUS 2010: COUNT US ALL IN By Chrstina Rivera and Jameliah Salter

11 OUT IN THE OPEN

By Jaylen Winston

INSIDE THE WORLD OF INTERIOR DESIGN

By Darien Boyd & Tachara Watkins

A DIFFERENT KIND OF CHARITY

By Randy C. Bonds

CELEBRITIES GIVING BACK

By Shanera Wilson

13 ISRAEL IDONIJE: MAKING LIFE BEARABLE

35 CHICAGO’S MONEY SMART KID

By Markita Watts

BY Jackson Beard

36 TEN TIPS FOR CHOOSING

TRUESTAR RADIO 18 MEET THE TRUE STAR

A COLLEGE

By Jasmith W. Joseph

RADIO TEAM

38 EXPRESSION WINNERS CIRCLE

By Darien Boyd & Maya Wade

INSIDE & OUT 40 WASTED: TEENS & ALCOHOL ABUSE

FASHION 20 CREATIVE 8 = TALENT X VISION UNDER THE RADAR COVER STORY 26 JEREMIH: AN ARTIST OF

By Adriana ‘Nani’ Rosales

42 THE 411 ON HPV

By Jameliah Salter

BE PROTECTED! GET VACCINATED!

MANY TALENTS

By Kee’Ana Wolfe

By Jasmine Morales & Gyasi Sutherland

YOUNG LUV 41 WOULD YOU DATE A TEEN PARENT?

By Sohnnell Hampton

By Bria Cross

DOES YOUR BOO LIKE YOUR DO?

JERMAINE PAUL: TAKING THE SPOTLIGHT

By Maya Wade

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By Benita Brown

14 CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS PROFILES

By Jessica Hubert, Ashley Mathis, Jameliah Salter

15 CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS PROFILES

By Shannon Smith, Shanera Wilson

WRITE TO ACHIEVE 16 WHERE I COME FROM

By Shandrea Lewis

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A TEEN FILM SERIES

31 TRUTH IS…

ON THE COURT 48 B.J. ARMSTRONG:

UNDER THE RADAR 32 CHICAGO’S RISING STARS

AN AGENT FOR CHANGE

By Simeon Frierson

49 HOOPSHIGH

TEEN BIZ 34 TEENS IN THE WORKFORCE

By Raphael Morales

By Aminat Olayinka Agaba

CLOSING THOUGHTS 48 IS COLLEGE SAFER THAN HOME?

GIVE YOURSELF SOME CREDIT

By Jasmith W. Joseph

1130 SOUTH WABASH SUITE 302

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Thoughts on love BY Cynthia Paz

THE ‘L’ WORD DISAPPROVING PARENTS VS. YOUNG LOVE

30 ROLL DA REEL:

By Markita Watts

By Kia Smith

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16 A DISEASE I CAN SEE

THRU DA WIRE 28 OMARION: O SO AMBITIOUS

GIVING BACK 12 TODRICK HALL:

TRUE STAR MAGAZINE

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By Kate Manoucheka Airey

CHICAGO, IL 60605

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312.588.0100 OFFICE

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312.588.0175 FAX

KJ A

Editors Letter

JK

lthough the season of giving is over, don’t let the fact that the holidays are gone discourage you from doing your best to help yourself and others around you.

In this Giving Back issue, True Star tells you how your favorite celebrities like Alicia Keys and T.I. give back and how Chicago Bears defensive tackle Israel Idonije’s childhood motivates him to do the same.

Also covered here is the controversy surrounding “Gay Teachers,” the importance of the 2010 Census, and how hot shoes can turn your life around. Plus, take a look at the hottest fashion, get to know some blazing new Under The Radar artists, and finally see who’s behind the mic of True Star Radio on Power92!

If that’s not enough to make you want to tear into these pages, then get up close and personal with Chicago’s own Jeremih with all-around access to the man behind the artist. And we all know that finding the right college can be a struggle, along with writing a personal statement for college, so flip the pages and let TrueStar break it down for you. Enjoy!

Bria Cross

Senior, Thornwood High School

PLEASE LET US KNOW YOUR THOUGHTS ON TRUE STAR MAGAZINE CONTACT US Letters to True Star • 1130 South Wabash • Suite 302 • Chicago, Il 60605-2717 Letters become the property of True Star and may be edited for publication.

EMAIL soundoff@truestarmagazine.com

HIT UP TRUE STAR ONLINE FACEBOOK: TRUESTAR MAG - MYSPACE.COM/MYTRUESTAR – TWITTER.COM: TRUESTARMAG

Editorial Staff Apostolic Faith Church Instructor Marti Parham Darien Boyd Jackie Flowers Tanee Flowers Sonnell Hampton Jessica Hubert Maya Wade Tachara Watkins Editorial Staff Farragut High School Instructor Edgar Molina Johnny Alcaraz Guadalupe Arreola Danielle Lyons Jocy Rabadan Editorial Staff Foreman High School Instructor Edgar Molina Jason Castro Cheryl Doyle Martin Espino Diana Gonzalez Deavon Gordon Jacqueline Lopez Juan Martinez Ashley Mathis Cynthia Paz Jacob Plaza Miguel Rodriguez Adriana Rosales Samantha Sanchez Myesha Sims

6 TRUE STAR MAGAZINE

Stephanie Taylor Tiffanie Taylor Bryan Williams Editorial Staff North Lawndale Instructor Veronica Harrison La’Nesha Baldwin Bria Cross Adrina Johnson Darshi Lockett Kareem Marshall Jazmen McKinnor Kierra Mullen Katrina Pipes Tyra Robinson Tiarra Webb Tiara Wiggins Shanera Wilson Jaylen Winston Kailynn Wofford Kee’Ana Wolfe Freelance Writers True Star Office Instructor Jack Silverstein Diondra Bradshaw Armani Brown Benita Brown Shalonda Kirkwood Shandrea Lewis Jameliah Salter Kia Smith Gyasi Sutherland Ken Woods Shannon Smith Maya Powe Manoucheka Airey

Event Planning Harlan High School Instructors Joi Mitchell Rashaan Meador Larsie Southern Christopher Browner Akillah Davis Markita Watts Markia Wilkerson Jocelyn Watkins Brittney Williams Diancio Parker Takeysha Brown Maurice Sutton Detty Reevs Marquise Murphy Alexis Webster Lawrence Jones Dana Spears Alex Ford Daniel Merrick Marche Johnson Derrick Goodloe Sania Erwin Alisha Perkins Demetrius Cook Domminique Carter Kristin Henderson Jemel Hennings

Graphics Staff Simeon High School Instructors Ronda Jackson Polina Ziontes Danielle Alexander Monique Archer Devon Boyson

Miesha Brown Herbert Carter Hassan Childs TiAnna Coats Courtney Elzy Rayfield Drake Latanza Ferguson Cherell German Monikeya Gordon SHanae Haralson Anshaunti Hillery Andre Hope Shakita Hopkins James Hudson Briana Jefferson Oche Johnson Eric Jones Fredrick Jones Jaylin McClinton Prince Rule Princess Rule Timothy Ruth Sydney Wetherspoon Shavonne Williams Andrew Wormley Photography Staff Julian High School Instructors Deshaun Adams Mireya Acierto Corrine Reed Ryan Barnes DeAngelo Brown Justice Brown Leeza Earl Alexis Francois Carlos Hale Bruce Hardaway Tracy Henderson Christina Jackson

Passion Jackson Chevon Johnson Tamaya Johnson Shannon Kelley Beronica Littlejohn Cheria Moore Katara Moore Laquisha Moss Clinton Parker Ryan Patterson Janell Pender-Bay Breanna Perkins Carlton Rice Gabriel Segee Desiree Shelton Jimmy Smith Rashon Snyder Jessamyn Sterling Jade Washington Bria Wells Radio Staff First Presbyterian Church Instructors Bionce Foxx Safiya Edwards Bernard Brisco Cierra Cooper McKenzie Cooper Tashay Dennie Amber Flowers Yentl Grigler Tantasjah Holden Shontel Jarmon Arthur Jones Ariana King David Kingly Christian Northington Olashade Popoola Bria Phillips Mary Rufus-Ross

Morgan Thomas Joseph Turner Richard Woods

Executive Directors J. Na’Tae Thompson DeAnna McLeary

Street Team True Star Office Managers Jade Hedgeman Brittany McKinley

Managing Editor Jack Silverstein

Sacha Dunkin Robyn Neal Mareecia Lowry Bria Williams Tristan Fuller Catherine Edwards Carmeysha Knott Christopher Brown Darius Hillery Shawnise Scott Mary Rufus-Ross Kenya Earls Lashaundra Neil JoyAngela Clark Ronnie Austin Maleiya Porter Mary Rufus-Ross Bria Cross Arthur Jones Natisha Condon

Web Content Manager Rashaan Meador

Assistant Editor Edgar Molina

Art Direction Design and Illustration

Angel D’Amico-Bauer Photo Coordinator Mireya Acierto Special Projects Manager Deshaun Adams Philistine Thompson Public Relation & Marketing Outreach Specialist Kikanza Harris Director Integrated Marketing & Sales Floyd Glinsey Account Executives Carlin Tools Ascend ASAP Promotions Managers Jade Hedgeman Brittany McKinley

CONTRIBUTORS QUESTIONS TO THE CONTRIBUTORS: 1. 2009 IS NOW IN THE BOOKS. WHAT GOALS ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO ACHIEVING IN 2010?

2. WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE TRUE STAR MEMORY OF 2009?

3. THIS IS OUR “GIVING BACK” ISSUE, WHERE WE PAY TRIBUTE TO CHARITABLE PEOPLE. HOW WILL YOU USE YOUR TRUE STAR TRAINING TO GIVE BACK? 4. WHAT 2009 TRENDS DO YOU THINK WILL COME TO AN END IN 2010?

5. WE’VE ALL HEARD ABOUT THE 2012 MAYAN CALENDAR PROPHECY. IF YOU KNEW FOR SURE THAT THE WORLD WAS ENDING, WOULD YOU CHANGE THE WAY YOU LIVE? HOW? WHY? Leeza Earl Junior, Julian High School Photography 1. In 2010, I look forward to being a better person, working a little harder, and becoming more of a positive influence upon my peers.

2. My favorite True Star memory of 2009 would have to be when our instructors had us photograph teens for the magazine. It was a real photo shoot -- the suspense was very high and it was a lot of fun because I was the photographer.

3. I will use my True Star training to teach other teens and young adults that photography isn’t just taking pictures. I can show them what the camera can do and how to make your picture stand out. I would go to elementry and high schools to share my knowledge.

4. OMG! I think and hope that the boys wearing skinny jeans will come to an end.

5. I wouldn’t change how I live my life because you can’t change what you did wrong during the years in a few months. I would have more fun and enjoy the rest of my life.

Jazmen McKinnor Junior, North Lawndale College Prep Editorial 1. In 2010, I look forward to becoming a better person, as far as school and making my parents proud of me. To just continue to be the smart and intelligent teenager I am.

2. The big “Roll Da Reel” party!!! It was fabulous…and fun.

3. I will use True Star training to give back to other people by giving them advice and suggestions on what they don’t know and need to know as far as sex, drugs, and peer pressure. Basically, what TrueStar Magazine already talks about but coming from a teenager who has experienced it first hand.

4. The clothes we wear. Skinny jeans…tight shirts…etc. Skinny jeans came from the 80’s and they brought it back in the New Millennium.

5. I wouldn’t change the way I live because I LOVE the way I live. The world ending wouldn’t change me; that means if the world wasn’t ending I would have thoughts in my mind about changing how I live, which I wouldn’t think about.

Anshaunti Hillery Sophomore, Simeon Career Academy Graphic Design 1. First I have to complete my third session in a row with True Star. Then I’m going to get my sanitation certificate in culinary arts. I would also like to go on a couple college tours to finalize my choice.

2. My favorite True Star moment was the whole Sweet 16 celebration. I loved the Sweet 16 issue and the party was so dope.

Shout-out to the New Boyz.

3. I could give back by designing flyers and logos for food drives, toy collections, and charity events. I could also use my leadership skills to help people out with event planning and design.

4. Non-touchscreen/full-keyboard phones, ripped shirts, and mohawks are getting really old.

5. I would try to live in the moment a little more and tell people I love them a little more often.

Darien Boyd Junior, Daniel Hale Williams Prep School of Medicine Editorial 1. My goals for 2010 are raising my GPA to 3.0, doing well on the ACT, and attending church on a more regular basis 2. Getting the opportunity to meet Scoop Jackson. Scoop is really doper than advertised.

3. Helping my peers to become writers. My English class often requires peer editing and I believe that is where my experience could come in handy.

4. I believe Auto-Tune will finally die as of 2010. Besides the fact that Jay-Z has declared its death, the use of the vocoder has become played out to a point where I’m ready to see it go.

5. One thing I would change about the way I live is my procrastination. Life is moving fast and I can’t let it pass me by. Though I’ve gotten better, I still need to scratch some bad habits.

Joshua ‘JDRIILLz’ Turner Senior, George Washington High School Radio Broadcasting 1. For starters, I’m looking forward to graduation.

Class of 2010, ALL DAY! Prom as well! Looking forward to Columbia College and starting my music/dance career! Expecting to make some big sponsorship deals for True Star through the Sales & Marketing Program. I will continue to rep and put forth effort to TrueStar RADIO to the fullest!

2. I had a lot of good memories with TS, but I don’t think you could even imagine how crazy I was jumping around the house when they sent me the message that I was chosen to be on TRUE STAR RADIO! I was reading it from my phone in a daze, and then I just had to get on the computer to see it twice! I was like (Lil’ Jon voice) Whaaaaaaat! Okaaaaaaay!

3. I wish to open up a community center, fully dedicated to the arts. As an artist/ musician/businessman, I wish to change the minds of younger people and steer them from certain risks, to give them chances to make GOOD music, art, and dance, succeed in school, and become influential men and women.

4. Real talk, I hope skinny jeans DIE! I just can’t get with it, and I NEVER WILL! What do I look like having my little sister’s jeans on? I’m sorry, but guys, hang up the skinny jeans! It’s not right – but hey that’s just me! I gotta breathe! You know what I mean? I want kids someday……Someday.

5. I’m a God-fearing man, and no life will last forever, so I’d say live life to the fullest. At least as positive as possible. God knows where my heart is. I am very passionate in music, and dance, so I know, if not the world, I will change lives. (I really don’t think the earth is going to end in 2012…I hope not.)

TRUE STAR MAGAZINE 7

REAL TALK

Easy-to-Apply Tactics to Writing a Personal Statement

BY ASHLEY MATHIS SENIOR, SCHURZ HIGH SCHOOL

PHOTO CREDIT: LEEZA EARL, JUNIOR, JULIAN HIGH SCHOOL

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“ ANY INFORMATION THAT HELPS CONNECT WHAT YOU HAVE DONE AND WHAT YOU CAN POTENTIALLY DO IS IMPORTANT.”

riting a personal statement is truly a scary thing. It is the equivalent of being ‘put on the spot,’ but on paper. Most personal statements ask you to write about yourself. But how does someone put something as complicated as one’s life into words? It can seem like a daunting task, especially when the question “where do I start” prevents you from even starting. Scary right? Yes. But impossible? No.

Remember to figure out which details are important and which are insignificant to your personal statement. Where you were born, what schools you attended, and where you have worked are significant. Where you hang out, who you hang with, and what kind of gum you chew should never find their way into your personal statement. Just remember to paint a good picture of yourself.

One of the first things you have to do is figure out exactly what information should go into your personal statement. Most colleges limit you to between 300 and 500 words, so you want to make sure you include all the RIGHT information. This means your extraordinary pop-locking abilities might not be pertinent to your personal statement.

Once you figure out what should and should not go in your personal statement, you want to make a bulleted list of all the important narrative information:

A good way to decide what information to include is to narrow down those aspects and experiences in your life that demonstrate your ability to succeed and persevere.

That one time you organized a toy drive at your church, or developed a new recycling method at your school, or volunteered to help stack sandbags before the local river swallowed up your friend’s house—these are all experiences that demonstrate these abilities. Keep in mind one important reality: the people reviewing your personal statement are trying to determine whether or not you are a good candidate for their school. Any information that helps connect what you have done and what you can potentially do is important.

Once you have an idea of what you would like to include, start a bulleted list to keep track of all the information:

- Organized a toy drive at church - Developed a new recycling program at school - Volunteered to sandbag When you have thoroughly combed your memory for all good deeds and acts of initiative, develop a narrative of your life to wrap around the information. A narrative is simply a description of specific events. For this situation, the event to be narrated is your life. And because your space is limited to 300-500 words, you need to be both brief and specific.

8 TRUE STAR MAGAZINE

- Birth place - Schools - Jobs The easiest way to go once you have all the content is to organize that information chronologically. This tactic provides two important things to any piece of writing: organization and cohesion. Without those two things keeping all your information in order, your personal statement is likely to be overlooked.

Finally, you want to make sure you include a clear explanation as to why you want to go to college. In other words, do you have interests in something?

You must have an interest in something if you want to go to college, so this shouldn’t be difficult. And this is definitely not the time to be humble. If you feel you possess the drive, the expertise, the motivation, the know-how, and the capacity to learn something and succeed in it, then you best tell them and don’t be shy.

From here on out it’s just you and your pen. Take all the information you gathered and don’t be afraid to narrate your life. Keep in mind that everyone is interesting and everyone has a story to tell. As long as you stay sincere and incorporate all your goods, your personal statement will surely be unique and interesting.

Good luck!

Autism: Doesn’t Hold Me Back

BY MAYA POWE, FRESHMAN, SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY

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PHOTO CREDIT: DESHAUN “TRIG” ADAMS

alking into the small classroom, I didn’t know what to expect. It’s so easy to walk into unknown situations with preconceived ideas. Nonetheless, with an open mind, I opened the classroom door to some of the nicest people I’ve ever met. Being greeted with handshakes and warm smiles, it was a refreshing break from the usual stares of “Who is she? Why is she here?” And while the elephant in the room was, “These people have autism,” I was more interested in getting to know LaPonce Thompson, a 17-year-old junior at King College Prep.

From the beginning of our conversation, Thompson addresses that he has a disability, describing autism as “a developmental disorder that effects how the brain works.” Nonetheless, it is clear that while Thompson acknowledges his disability, he doesn’t let it hinder him from accomplishing his numerous goals. He takes pride in excelling as an honor roll, straight “A” student, one capable of competing with his general education counterparts. In the near future, he looks forward to attending college and eventually working in any field of science.

In the classroom, Thompson is a great leader. His classmates look to him for help and he is the known computer expert of the class. He is most known for defeating his teacher in the latest video games. A leader outside the classroom, Thompson holds the title of Director for Best Buddies, a non-profit organization whose mission is to bridge the gap between students with autism and general education students. He helps with daily duties like attendance and passing out flyers as well as planning events for the organization. His favorite was a carnival held last school year. He also serves as a Junior Counselor during the summer, a task that takes a lot of patience.

And while Thompson’s achievements speak to his tenacious personality, it is his ability to connect with people that is his real talent. It is important, as his teacher Mr. Hiller points out, that we first address LaPonce as a person before we acknowledge his disorder. Thompson’s ability to draw people in and make every topic relevant is impressive for any person.

At the end of the day, his disorder is merely another factor that makes him unique, and his ability to be different is what makes him extraordinary.

“THOMPSON HOLDS THE TITLE OF DIRECTOR FOR BEST BUDDIES, A NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN STUDENTS WITH AUTISM AND GENERAL EDUCATION STUDENTS.”

Diary

Through the Pages of Her

BY BRIA CROSS, SENIOR, THORNWOOD HIGH SCHOOL

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diary is such a personal place. It’s your life long experiences on paper. A place where you keep your thoughts and ideas.

In Crystal L. Winston’s book After I Met a Boy, the character Kale Mohr takes us through her life journey by recounting experiences in her diary. She tells us what teen life is really like when sexual experiences start taking over. While reading the book, you feel like you’re taking every step that Kale takes, right along with her. She experiences trouble with friends, boyfriends, her stepsister, and her parents. It’s like every teenage girl’s life written all in one book.

The book is truthfully raw and holds nothing back. Kale brings you into her personal knowledge, where you can learn from her mistakes. Even if you’re not looking for guidance in your life, this book can make you think about every decision you have ever made and how you can grow from them. After I Met a Boy is an exceptional read; it makes you think about what really happens after you meet a boy.

TRUE STAR MAGAZINE 9

COUNT US ALL IN

BY CHRISTINA RIVERA, FRESHMAN, UIC AND JAMELIAH SALTER, JUNIOR, GWENDOLYN BROOKS COLLEGE PREP

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resident Obama has a vision for our future. Better infrastructure, more services and resources, better schools and hospitals, more safety and security, and cleaner parks and recreations. But as we should all know by now, he can only do so much. Every one of us can do our part to help bring about this vision, beginning with being accounted for.

Imagine this: you are the head of a household and you need to buy groceries to feed your family. What is the first thing you need to do before heading off to the grocery store? First, before finding out who eats Cheetos or Doritos, you need to find out how many people you have in your family, so that you know how much Cheetos and Doritos to buy. Right?

The same rule applies to a country as it does to a family. In order to receive a sufficient amount of resources from our government, each and every American must be counted. Luckily we have a department in our country that strives to make sure this important goal is accomplished.

“THE INFORMATION COLLECTED BY THE U.S. CENSUS BUREAU HELPS DETERMINE MANY IMPORTANT DECISIONS…LIKE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION, COLLEGE LOAN AND GRANT PROGRAMS, AND EVEN NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENTS.”

$400 billion dollars a year will be spent in our communities. It’s simple, fast, and easy. When you receive it in the mail, make sure you put it in a safe place until the head of the household can fill it out. A lot of people who don’t fill out the form will receive a replacement just in case it was lost. A census taker may even visit you if the form is not returned completed after April 1st, 2010, and ask you the questions from the form. If you mess up on the form, don’t worry. Everyone makes mistakes. Just draw a line through the wrong answer and make sure you write the correct answer as close to the question as possible.

When you do the math, it’s easy to see what an accurate count can do for your community. And just in case you might still have a few reservations or fears about the census, please read through our list of facts and myths surrounding the purpose of the U.S. Census: MYTH: Information from the census can be abused and be used to deport illegal immigrants.

The information collected by the U.S. Census Bureau helps determine many important decisions. Things like public transportation, college loan and grant programs, and even neighborhood improvements are all affected by the census.

TRUTH: “The census is just trying to count everyone. They are not searching for illegal aliens, criminals, or people who didn’t pay taxes. We cannot share any information with anybody who is not a census employee. If we do, we can face

And because the census is only taken every ten years, it is important to make sure we are all counted. Dismissing the importance of this count could mean that your community will spend the next 10 years without a sufficient amount of resources to sustain it.

up to five years in prison and we can be fined up to $250,000.”

– Maulin Rice

The 2010 approach of the U.S. Census shows the government’s eagerness to receive input from the urban community. It is especially important for crowded urban communities to step up and be counted. This will help ensure that we are accurately represented in our communities, so that our respective urban community can better qualify for federal funding and social services.

MYTH: The U.S. Census lets anyone see respondent information and answers.

They have no security.

TRUTH: “No one can get access to census data. It is rock solid secure. As required by law, individual census records cannot be shared with anyone—not the IRS, not the FBI, not the CIA, and not with any other government agency.

Obama himself wouldn’t even be able to view respondent’s answers. - James T. Christy, Los Angeles Regional Office Director, U.S. Census Bureau.

“If you don’t like driving over pot holes, fill out your census questionnaire and by the next year you’ll have more money for road rehab,” explains Bobbie Howard of the U.S. Census Bureau. “If you like clean parks and recreation, all these programs are based on census data.”

According to the Census Bureau, the new (shorter) census form requires less time than it takes to make a hardboiled egg, change a tire, or even watch your favorite sitcom. Only ten minutes will ensure that you have a say in how over 10 TRUE STAR MAGAZINE

MYTH: The U.S. Census is not going to help the community.

They just ask a lot of questions.

TRUTH: Census data, before anything else, is used to determine how many congressional seats appointed to your state, so that he or she can make decisions about what community services to provide, and how to distribute $400 billion in federal funds to local, state and tribal governments each year!

OUT IN THE OPEN

BY JAYLEN WINSTON, SOPHOMORE, NORTH LAWNDALE COLLEGE PREP

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magine this: it’s your first day of high school and you’re scared and nervous.

Your teacher enters the room and since he is the most joyful person you’ve ever seen, you cling to him. He does a wonderful job teaching and was very nice, and when it’s time to go you feel a little bad because you’re leaving the teacher you’ve grown so fond of.

You begin on your way home and notice your male teacher is greeted by another male. They kiss and start on their way home. This does not change your perception of your teacher because you still see him as the nice, helpful, joyful teacher you desired in your time of need. He’s homosexual, you’re aware, but what’s the difference between him and other teachers that may be heterosexual?

“Are there any gay faculty at your school or college?” That was the poll question in the December 20th issue of The Advocate, and the results were astounding.

Only 7% of schools polled had no gay staff, while a remarkable 64% had at least two. That’s more than half. There are even states that say 5% of your staff must be gay.

Here in Chicago, North Lawndale College Prep has many homosexual teachers that have actually come out to students and staff and were proud of it. What do

INSIDE THE WORLD OF INTERIOR DESIGN

BY DARIEN BOYD, JUNIOR, DANIEL HALE WILLIAMS PREP AND TACHARA WATKINS, SOPHOMORE, BRONZEVILLE SCHOLASTIC ACADEMY

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o you have an eye for putting things together? Does your room look like something off HGTV? Do you want to help people create the inside of their dream house? Being an interior designer gives you the opportunity to do all of this. Howard University alum Afiya Kumar of AHA Designs gives True Star readers some insight on the business.

I have always been an artist. One summer in high school I went to visit an artist friend in New York. She was attending Pratt Institute, majoring in photography. I sat in on some classes and instantly fell in love with the interior design courses.

To have the actual title ‘interior designer’ you must have a 4-year degree. After two years of design work in the field you can take the licensing exam, the NCIDQ. Depending on what area of design you want to go into, there are several other levels you can obtain.

A junior designer out of school may typically make $30,000 to start. There are small, medium, and large firms. There are commercial or residential firms. Each type will have a different feel. The unifying theme though is creativity.

What is the most challenging thing about being an interior designer?

North Lawndale staff think of gay teachers? “They are trained professionals with the same, if not more commitment and dedication as heterosexual teachers,” said computer literacy teacher Charlie Martin. “It’s good to have homosexual teachers because it raises a minority community’s tolerance for homosexuals in general.”

A COLORFUL PERSPECTIVE Since there were many “out” teachers at North Lawndale College Prep, Foreign Policy teacher Robin D’Averso had an insightful story to share about her “coming out” as a homosexual teacher in her previous school.

“Coming out at my old school was hard,” D’Averso said. “The school was homophobic… I had to out myself bit by bit, although it was easier for female teachers. After I came out it inspired everyone else who was in the closet to come out and be themselves.”

Times have changed. More and more gay teachers are being employed either around or in your school. High school kind of makes you wonder how your perception of homosexual teachers will change. Will it be for better or for worse?

Or will the colors succumb to the standard and fade away? Many people see things as either black or white…Will You?

The clients that you meet and their projects.

The challenge for a business owner is obtaining profitable new clients and hiring great staff. [My clients come from mostly word of mouth.] Clients’s friends seeing our work, the Merchandise Mart’s staff recommending us, the Merchandise Mart’s website, and the multitude of articles that were written about us.

The challenge for an interior designer is to always keep it new and fresh. The Dining by Design project for the Merchandise Mart and Elle Décor Magazine was my favorite [job]. We were selected to create two tables in which to dine, and we created his and hers bedrooms called ‘Breakfast in Bed.’ We had the most exclusive furniture, fabrics, and accessories and also chose two of the best, gorgeous models to eat around.

The most difficult project was working with a condo building in the Gold Coast.

Instead of having the usual one or two people you have to work with, we had hundreds, each with their own opinion, agenda and level of madness.

‘Unnecessary stress’ would be the words to sum up that project.

I’ve owned AHA Designs for 10 years. It had its stressful moments, but it was all mine: the fame, the fortune, the problems and the successes. When I first graduated, I worked for two different firms before starting my own. I wouldn’t give up either one of the experiences.

TRUE STAR MAGAZINE 11

GIVING BACK

A different kind of

charity

BY RANDY C. BONDS, JUNIOR, COLUMBIA COLLEGE CHICAGO

A

ll charitable acts don’t necessarily involve just giving money. In the case of Todrick Hall, he gives young people the chance to live their dream of performing on the stage.

The 24-year-old Hall is a singer, actor, choreographer, and the director of his own production, Oz The Musical, which he wrote at the age of 17. While he does cast familiar faces such as That’s So Raven’s Orlando Brown, former Danity Kane member Andrea, and American Idol’s Vonzell Solomon, he also casts local kids from each community the production visits during its tour. He has given more than 3,000 kids the chance to stride toward their dreams by being in a live production on stage with accomplished entertainers.

Hall himself is no stranger to the stage. He was in Oprah’s Broadway production of The Color Purple in 2007 starring Chaka Khan and Fantasia Barrino. He also got the opportunity to understudy Bebe Winans in the roll of Harpo.

Charity is all about giving back, and Hall is definitely giving back to every community he visits. He’s able to use the gifts that he’s been blessed with to train other young people so that they can eventually walk in his footsteps and touch someone’s life like he’s touched theirs. Charity is about creating a cycle, and he wants to see to it that as he receives blessings, he’s passing out blessings and opening doors to people that normally can’t find a door to open.

For more on Todrick Hall check out www.myspace.com/todrick_hall

Celebs giving back!

BY SHANERA WILSON, SOPHOMORE NORTH LAWNDALE COLLEGE PREP

Tyra Banks

She’s not only working the runway on her two TV shows. She is also giving back with the TZONE Foundation. Launched in 1999, TZONE let’s teen girls know that they can be in control of their destiny if they just feel good about what’s on the inside more than the outside. It empowers young women to live their dreams as fiercely as possible.

Bono

Bono and his band U2 are constantly giving back with their two organizations, Make Poverty History and Live 8. Make Poverty History is the largest movement in history focused on ending poverty.

Live 8 works on getting financial assistance to provide resources for orphans with AIDS. Bono and U2 have traveled the world taking positive actions to improve human rights.

Chris Brown

Chris Brown’s amazing Fan Appreciation tour was set up to thank his fans for their love and support. It also showed Brown’s support to Best Buddies International, a 12 TRUE STAR MAGAZINE

non-profit organization dedicated to providing opportunities for friendship, jobs, and leadership for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Alicia Keys

Our ‘superwoman’ Alicia Keys is the co-founder and global ambassador for Keep a Child Alive Foundation (KCA). Founded in 2003, KCA’s Mission is to provide life-saving anti-retroviral treatment, care, love, and support services to the children and families in Africa and India affected by HIV/AIDS.

T.I.

T.I. does more than just giving the ladies ‘whatever they like.’ He is giving back to the kids. With the help of his Kids In Need of Giving Foundation, he has dedicated time to influence children to “bury da beef” and stay in school.

Israel Idonije Giving Back

BY KIA SMITH, SENIOR, HARLAN HIGH SCHOOL

S

ome people might think that football players are nothing but over paid athletes who are glorified for a popular sport. When it comes to Chicago Bear Israel Idonije, that idea is the total opposite.

Humbly dressed in a throwback G-Unit sweat suit and a navy blue hat, Idonije was very cordial with the TrueStar team and got straight to business.

“NOT ONLY DOES IDONIJE HELP CHILDREN IN AFRICA WITH SCHOOL SUPPLIES AND MEDICAL BILLS, BUT HE ALSO PLANS TO OPEN AN ACADEMY ONE DAY.”

Born in Nigeria and raised in Canada, Idonije says that his childhood is his biggest motivation when it comes to giving back. As a child of ministers, he remembers his parents always giving whatever they had to help the next person. When it comes to helping children, his motivation is 100% sincere. He says that because his parents were so committed to helping others, “it was only natural [he] pick up the trait in adulthood.”

Sure, many people with money might have a foundation or two, but half the time it only endorses them. But Idonije goes above the norm. Not only does he help children in Africa with school supplies and medical bills, but he also plans to open an academy one day. The academy is for under-privileged kids who want to do something with their lives, education and career wise. Idonije’s foundation will pay all expenses for the children as long as they keep their grades up. There are no further details whether or not the academy will be in the U.S. or in Africa right now.

Idonije is a very charitable individual, a philanthropist even. A very important comment he made was in response to “Does he think playing football has allowed him to gain better opportunities?” His response included giving an example of the governor. He said that if he was just a regular guy, and if he wanted to meet the governor, it would be very hard because he wouldn’t really have any clout. Being known as a football player not only gives him recognition, but it also gives him easy access to get things done.

Idonije also knows that as quickly as success and fame can come, it can all be taken away. “Everything in life is about leverage….and opportunity. Because I play football, I can call someone and say I want to do this or that and it will happen. If I didn’t play football, I wouldn’t be able to do that. I’m thankful. I understand that.

Unfortunately once you retire, that can all go away. It’s up to me to be defined for more than football.”

And clearly defined he is.

TRUE STAR MAGAZINE 13

Assisting Young Women

BY SHANERA WILSON, SOPHOMORE, NORTH LAWNDALE COLLEGE PREP

I

magine a teenage girl who is facing depression and self-esteem issues. She is scared, lonely, and doesn’t have anyone to turn to for help. She’s in need of a program that can assist her by helping her build a positive self-image.

Well, guess what? She found Assist Her, Inc., an organization that offers mentoring programs and image building workshops to young women between the ages of 12 and 18. Assist Her is committed to empowering girls to develop and express their greatest strengths and to find their “true selves.”

The G.U.R.L. Project (Getting Us Ready for Life) is a program that works out of certain schools. G.U.R.L. explores all components of self-esteem, career readiness, and educational and financial planning. The best part about this program is the feeling the young women have once they have graduated at the end of 15 weeks.

Once each girl has found courage and creativity in herself she is then ready to transfer her knowledge to other teen girls in need of assistance.

“Image is a double-sided mirror of who I am and who I want to be,” says Samantha Coleman, Executive Director of Assist Her. When looking in that mirror they ask a simple question of “What do I want looking back at me?” Assist Her helps girls to unlock the door to that mirror.

“Our mission is to embrace the uniqueness of each and every girl, recognize the challenges she faces, and assist her in the personal journey of discovering her strengths, talents and inner wisdom.” -Assist Her, Inc.

Alternatives, Inc.

BY SHANNON SMITH, SOPHOMORE, UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS

A

lternatives, Inc., a small-time organization founded by residents concerned with teen drug use, aims to facilitate personal development, strengthen family relationships, and enhance the community’s well-being. The founders conveniently named the organization Alternatives because they wanted to give teens “alternatives” to dropping out of school and being involved in the streets.

“We are one of the largest northeast Chicago area agencies dedicated to at-risk youth and their families,” said Keisha Farmer-Smith, manager of Alternatives. Now with a full-time staff of 50 and over 150 volunteers serving over 3,000 youth, Alternatives, Inc. prides itself on youth empowerment, with programs such as Girl World, Restorative Justice, Afterschool Enrichment and Career & Employment Services. For more information on Alternatives, Inc. and their programs visit www.alternativesyouth.org

A step in the right direction

BY JESSICA HUBERT, SOPHOMORE, UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO LABORATORY SCHOOL

A

lot of people say that a person’s shoes match their swag. It’s all about whose got the latest Air Jordan’s, the sickest Nikes, and the wildest Ed Hardy’s.

But what if someone told you that shoes can affect your mood and confidence?

An organization called P.U.M.P.S. promotes those very ideas.

P.U.M.P.S. (Providing U Motivation to Pursue Success) is a non-profit organization helping teenage girls reach their full potential. “Every girl comes in angry and with a poor education,” said founder Nicole Jones. “Our goal is to turn them into positive, productive members of society. We want them to reach their full potential and be able to inspire other girls.”

So, how do you turn a teenage girl into a proper young lady? By exposing her to a different way of life. “The program lasts nine months,” said Jones. “The girls attend sessions on self-esteem and self-image. We also give them real world situations. We have an etiquette class, and we take the girls to a fine dining restaurant.”

14 TRUE STAR MAGAZINE

“I was always getting into trouble,” said P.U.M.P.S. graduate Paki Williams.

“P.U.M.P.S. is the reason why I’m in college now. The program taught me that it is possible to change, get what you want, and get a job.”

“Get someone you can look up to,” advises Williams. “Someone that has been down the same path that you are on right now.”

So where do shoes fit in to all of this? According to Jones there is nothing more empowering than placing the perfect shoe on a woman’s foot. This strong feeling and the love of shoes gave her the idea to start this program for young girls. “Just like a new outfit feels good, the right shoes feel good,” Jones said. “Our girls are taught to walk tall.”

To learn more about Nicole Jones and P.U.M.P.S. visit www.pumpsuccess.com.

A family of artists

BY ASHLEY MATHIS, SENIOR, SCHURZ HIGH SCHOOL

BUILD

BY SHANNON SMITH, SOPHOMORE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS

K

uumba Lynx is a non-profit Chicago-based community organization dedicated to literacy and the arts. Founded in the summer of 1996 by Jaquanda Villegas, Jacinda Bullie, and Leida Garcia—three dedicated and talented woman with backgrounds in the arts—Kuumba Lynx has been able to reach out to and engage teens in various high-risk Chicago communities such as Bronzeville, Englewood, Rogers Park, Pilsen, Humboldt Park, and Little Village.

The vision of Kuumba Lynx is: “To foster creative expression and literacy in a safe and non-judgmental space, while providing excellence in arts education, performance work, and community empowerment, Kuumba Lynx wishes to provide access to arts and education for youth and their families.”

The organization is supported and funded in part by the Chicago Park District, Illinois Art Council, and City Arts 1. The Drop In Arts & Arts Residencies, Kuumba Lynx Performance Ensemble (KLPE), and Community Cultural Events are the three core programs through which Kuumba Lynx is able to reach teens. Each program features many workshops, from graffiti art to theater.

Unlike other programs, Kuumba Lynx is a family to the kids and teens who join.

“Some of the kids in our program have joined since the age of 8 and have grown up with us,” Villegas explained. “Many of them are in college now, but they still come around to be a part of the program and help out.”

For more about Kuumba Lynx, please visit www.kuumbalynx.org

B

UILD - Broader Urban Involvement and Leadership Development - operates with the mission statement of: “To engage at-risk youth in the schools and on the streets so they can realize their educational and career potential, and contribute to the stability, safety and well-being of our communities.” With gang violence remediation, college and career prep and community outreach programs, BUILD receives their youth through referral from other communitybased organizations, businesses, and schools.

“At BUILD, there is no such thing as a ‘bad kid,’” says Santrise Webb, Lead Development Specialist of BUILD. “All youth are equal and will succeed given the opportunity, support, and resources.” Serving over 3,500 youth, BUILD fosters productive and social behavioral skill development across the Chicagoland area.

To learn more about the positive programs of BUILD visit www.buildchicago.org

Have a Vision, Dreams, and Expectations

BY JAMELIAH SALTER, JUNIOR, GWENDOLYN BROOKS HIGH SCHOOL

D

o you have a passion for dancing, singing, or music? A place to make your dreams become reality may be right in your neighborhood. Located at 1440 W. 84th Street, Artist Development teaches all aspects of being an artist. As an After School Matters program, Artist Development facilitates youth between the ages of 10 and 21. With music as the main focus, instructors get into the depth of entertainment and being in the raving eyes of the public.

Artist Development is strategically separated into fundamental programs.

Amadeus Reams is not only the creator of the Artist Development Music and Dance program, but also an important instructor for the music program located in Foster Park where they teach voice training and reading contracts. “If you have a gift, you have to work your gift until it happens,” Reams says.

The music program has worked with artists like Mary Mary and Angie Stone.

They have also performed at the Chicago Theater. A notable student is Perry English, a senior at Simeon who won the 2009 WGCI Chicago Idol Contest. The dance program meets at Harlan High School and is instructed by Naomi Kinslow.

Teens get to learn various styles of dancing such as hip-hop, African, ballet, and salsa.

TRUE TRUESTAR STARMAGAZINE MAGAZINE 15

“A writer needs three things, experience, observation, and imagination, any two...can supply the lack of the others.”

—William Faulkner

BMOA

Presents…

The 2010 Write to Achieve Contest True Star Foundation and the Black McDonalds Operators Association Presents....Write 2 Achieve Live Together, Learn Together!

Enter an original poem, story, or essay of 500 words or less. Your entry can be personal, historical, hip-hop lyrics, funny or serious but most importantly, it should be creative. There will be three grade categories: 5th-6th, 7th -8th, & 9th-12th.

To enter, send your work to wta@truestarmagazine.com or mail to: P.O. Box 805080, Chicago, IL 60680-4112. *There will be a Grand Prize, 2nd & 3rd place winner selected from each grade category.

Winner will receive: • Grand Prize: Brand New Latop computer w/ printer • 2nd place: Brand New Desktop computer w/ printer • 3rd place: $100 Gift Certificate to Borders Books Rules: Contestants must be in grades 5-12 and can only enter in one of the three categories, poetry/rap, short story, or essay by March 9, 2010.

Pieces must be 500 words or less. For more information e-mail or visit us at wta@truestarmagazine.com,www.truestaris.com, www.facebook. com/truestarmag, www.truestarfoundation.org and 312.588.0100. *Only one entry per person so bring your A GAME! *Any student that submits multiple entries will be automatically disqualified. *Entries will not be returned.

Rules and Regulations: No purchase necessary to enter. Contestants must be in grades 5-12 as of March 9, 2010. Creative writing pieces (maximum 1000 words) may be submitted to wta@truestarmagazine.com. All entries must be received by March 9, 2010. The Black McDonald’s Operators Association (BMOA), True Star Foundation and True Star Magazine are not responsible for lost, stolen, late, incomplete, illegible, or misdirected submissions. Entries will be judged at the sole discretion of the judges based on category, originality, writing style, quality of work, and adherence to contest guidelines. The use of profanity and/or explicit language is strictly prohibited. The decisions of the judges are final. All submissions must be original and may not have been previously published works. The winner and other honorable mention award winners will be notified by telephone or e-mail. By entering your creative writing piece in this contest, you agree to the rules and regulations and will allow the BMOA to have non-exclusive license use of your submitted work. Entrants will retain copyright ownership of his/her work submitted.

Where I Come From

BY SHANDREA LEWIS, SENIOR CURIE METROPOLITAN HIGH SCHOOL

W

here I come from The existence of innocence is now nonsense The conquering streets captivate the children Where I come from Babies birth babies into the streets of ignorance Who grow up and don’t know what a real woman or man is Mana was too wild to settle down and find the guidance While Daddy was too young to take care of his So he ran scared just like the rest did Only to dig a hole deeper for his baby girl to fall in Where I come from Time is money But time is running Morgues are filling Ends are coming And if we don’t act now It’ll be sooner than us knowing Where I come from The reputation becomes more important than you The greed for money becomes bigger than you The distribution of drugs become an institution for the thugs once youth And they’re so confused They can’t see the truth That once you’re in tight there’s no letting loose Where I come from The hope has lost its foundation Children have lost their positive determination Limited by an income judged education Can’t see no further than what is the present presentation But where I’m going See it’s a whole new story Ain’t no way I’m a let the life of fights And roaming nights hold me tight My mama told me I have a plan To worry less of this mess Girl put it in God’s hands She told me To be bigger than the streets But don’t forget not who but what raised me What gave me the motivation to succeed?

Where I’m going I WILL be big Give them a reason to live Be the inspiration for the lost kids I’m a mend the minds of the ones doing the crime And be the first to rewind the clock And make like old times So no matter from where I’m coming just know I’m going And when I’m long gone I’m a always remember Where I come from

A Disease I Can See

BY MARKITA WATTS, SOPHOMORE, HARLAN HIGH SCHOOL

S

itting here in seventh period health class learning about this thing we call HIV/AIDS. The only thing I ever heard about it was that it comes from monkeys and gays. This was the first time I heard someone really talk about it in school. A student in the back of the class raised her hand, so I looked back to see who it was, and it was Dominique. She’s dark skinned with wavy hair and she’s really small. She never pays attention in class, so I was surprised. She wanted to know whose fault is it when someone catches HIV/AIDS. Sitting there, all I could say was “wow” – she’s really paying attention. This disease is something I want to learn more about; I can’t wait to get home to the computer and start researching the topic.

Before I sat down, I grabbed a couple of snacks and something to drink and started typing – “What causes HIV/AIDS?” So much information popped up. Sexual intercourse, sharing needles – “Why would someone do that?” – I asked myself. I learned that it’s not just from sex like I thought. This disease is terrible and I started to wonder how a person feels when they are diagnosed.

Guess I’ll never know.

Last night, I was so anxious to get back to school just because there’s more for me to learn about this disease. One period left until my health class. I was wishing this bell would hurry up and ring. I sat there saying to myself, “I’ll be the first one there.”

(Ding, ding, ding) The bell finally rang. I gathered my things trying to make it to class before everyone else. When I walked into the classroom, I saw Dominique sitting anxiously at her desk. Dominique is a girl who’s known for being a slut and sleeping with every guy on the baseball team freshman year. She’s been keeping to herself lately though. She’s usually late for every class but for some reason not this one.

Then there’s Jordan, a boy who always makes fun of Dominique. He always says little things to her like “Hey slut, you’re not pregnant yet?” He’s such a butt hole. He never treats her right.

Mr. Harris, the teacher, was still talking about HIV/AIDS. “How would you know you have this disease,” someone asked. “Getting sick in the stomach, getting dizzy and just not feeling like you,” he replies. (The bell rings). “See you guys tomorrow and we’ll finish the conversation.”

The next day at school, I rushed to my seventh period class, again trying to make it there before everyone else. After all the other students walked in I was expecting to see Dominique, but there was no sign of her. “I wonder where she is,” I thought to myself. Today, seventh period got a lot more interesting. It was great! We talked about the race with the highest rate of HIV/AIDS. It shocked me because African-American women have the highest growing cases of AIDS. Finding out this statistic was crazy and shocking!

HIV/AIDS affects so many people. It takes away from a teenager’s life. It hurts us so much, and that’s why we all need to make sure we are safe, careful, and concerned about our bodies. Life is too short already, so why make it shorter?

TRUE STAR MAGAZINE 17

PHOTO CREDIT: DESHAUN “TRIG” ADAMS AND MIREYA ACIERTO

MIC CHECK: TRUE STAR RADIO Where Teens Speak the Truth!

BY MAYA WADE AND DARIEN BOYD JUNIORS, DANIEL HALE WILLIAMS PREP SCHOOL OF MEDICINE

I

F YOU’RE INTO GOSSIP, CELEBRITY UPDATES, THE HOTTEST MUSIC, AND GLOBAL EVENTS, THEN TRUE STAR RADIO IS FOR YOU. TRUE STAR RADIO BLAZES THE AIRWAVES EVERY SUNDAY AT 7PM ON POWER 92 AND THEY ARE NO JOKE. IT’S THE REAL DEAL! A REAL RADIO SHOW BY REAL TEENS WHO TALK ABOUT REAL ISSUES. FROM PRODUCERS TO RADIO HOSTS, THEY HAVE IT ALL. THESE STUDENTS HAVE THE DRIVE, PERSONALITY, AND TALENT TO BRING YOU THE BEST TEEN SHOW ON THE RADIO EVERY WEEK. THE TRUE STAR MAGAZINE STAFF GOT THE OPPORTUNITY TO GET TO KNOW SOME OF THESE UP AND COMING RADIO PERSONALITIES. NOW, YOU CAN TOO.

Ariana Marie King Nickname: “Jellybean” Position: Music Director School: Perspectives Calumet High School of Technology Grade: Senior Quote: “It was an opportunity for me and I’m grateful for it! I would never regret doing anything for True Star, even if it’s me standing outside in the cold passing out flyers.”

18 TRUE STAR MAGAZINE

Joshua Turner

Mary Rufus

Nickname: “Drillz” Position: Producer/Host School: George Washington High School Grade: Senior Quote: “I don’t even know what I would be doing without True Star. I write songs and have dreams of becoming a producer and True Star has made it possible for me to branch off, expand my mind, and express myself. It’s a great experience.”

Nickname: “Mary Love” Position: Blogger/ Producer/Host/ Street Team School: Olive Harvey College Grade: Freshman Quote: “I was never exposed to this before. Now that I’m involved with it I just want to learn everything that I can.”

Amber James Flowers

David Kingly

Nickname: “J-babii James” Position: Host School: Kenwood Academy Grade: Senior Quote: “My True Star experience is awesome and simply amazing...just like me!

I would encourage teens to join a True Star program because you get to experience so much.”

Nickname: Champ I Am School: Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Grade: 12th Position: Host Quote: “Success always has a starting point…and True Star is just that…”

Tashay Dennie

Arthur Jones

Position: Executive Producer School: University of Illinois at Chicago Grade: Freshman Quote: “I invest in the youth and I put my passion into them because teens are the world.”

Nickname: AJ/Frankie School: Lindblom Math & Science Academy Grade: Sophomore Position: Music Director Quote: “True Star has a door open that is full of opportunities. Though I was already a good student, this has pushed me to be better.”

Shantel Jarmon

Shade Popoola Nickname: Shade the Diva School: Olive Harvey College Grade: Freshman Position: Host/Street Team/ Producer/Blogger Quote: “I love True Star. I started out on the design team. My experience has been great so far.”

MAKEUP BY JENNA DAYAN

Nickname: Sharmon Jarmon School: Dominican University Grade: Sophomore Position: Host/Blogger/Producer/ Assistant Music Director Quote: “I would say that my True Star experience has been great from day one. I’ve learned so much based on what I want to do with my career, which is to be a radio host. True Star not only teaches but gives you experience firsthand.”

CLOTHING PROVIDED BY SUCCEZZ, 1329 SOUTH MICHIGAN AVENUE, CHICAGO, IL AND ENTOURAGE MAN 1355 SOUTH MICHIGAN AVENUE, CHICAGO, IL

8

Creative = Talent x Vision PHOTOGRAPHY MIREYA ACIERTO WARDROBE STYLIST TIFFANY SUTTON HAIR & MAKEUP STYLIST KRISTEN THERESE REPA

D’ANGELO BROWN AND MARQUS CROCKETT Designer’s of SPIFFE Clothing Percy Julian High School, Senior Carver Military Academy, Senior Alter Ego… “Our influence is music and movies.

We create imaginary characters to design our looks.”

STYLE: D’ANGELO: left Black Sweater with White Stripes, Target Ear Flap Hat, GAP Jeans, DNA 2050 Red Converse, D’Angelo’s own MARQUS: right Driver Cap, GAP Black and White Plaid Button-down, Target Black V-neck Sweater, Target Jeans, DNA 2050 Gym Shoes, Marqus’ own

KAREN FENG Sculptor Walter Payton College Prep, Senior Art that speaks for itself…

“I let the material guide me, I work in metals, paper, plaster and wax. By paying attention to texture I figure out what to create with it.”

STYLE: White Tuxedo Shirt, GAP Black and White Shorts, GAP Grey Mary Jane Heels, Target Silver Layer Necklace, Lane Bryant

MICHELLE MCVICKER Fashion Illustrator Walter Payton College Prep, Senior Feminine and classic, with a “sparkly” twist…

“I remember redesigning Barbie clothes and my interest in fashion design continued when I couldn’t wear clothes that represented my style. I’m inspired by the 40’s and 50’s, old Hollywood and ballet costumes.”

STYLE: Black Strapless dress, Elements of Style Boutique Heels, Tights, and Headband, Michelle’s own

EBONI CROOM Sneaker designer Brooks College Prep Academy, Senior Turning a negative into a positive…

“I didn’t even know I could draw. I was mad at my mom because she wouldn’t buy me custom design gym shoes, so I made my own and turned it into a business.”

STYLE: Custom Designed Sneakers,

by Eboni Grey Silk Top, Target Jeans, Boots and Cardigan Eboni’s own

DAIMON HAMPTON Animator Chicago Discovery Academy, Junior A fusion of worlds…

“I like to tell stories through drawing, and in my comics I take sci-fi and fantasy and put them into the modern world.”

STYLE: Black and Grey Striped Sweater, GAP Black Scarf, GAP Jeans, DNA 2050 Black Tee, Target Daimon’s, model’s own

TODD GRAFF Graffiti Artist Chicago Academy for the Arts, Junior Triple threat…

“I started out doing fine art but I’m inspired by urban culture. I plan on going to Parsons in New York City and major in fine arts, advertising and fashion design.”

STYLE: Custom Designed Gym Shoes, by Todd Jeans, DNA 2050 Black Button-down, Solemates

REBECCA LOTHAN Photographer Walter Payton College Prep Artistry in the DNA… “I come from a family of artists.

My photography is inspired by nature, like water and its reflections.”

STYLE: Blazer, GAP Grey Bib Top, GAP Grey Jeans, GAP Shoes, Rebecca’s own

TODD

REBECCA

D’ANGELO

EBONI

Grey jacket and Jeans, DNA Maroon Tee, Solemates Todd’s own shoes

Black dress and Purple Scarf, GAP Purple tights, True Star Closet Black Mary Jane Shoes, Target

SPIFFE Sweatshirt, Designed by D’Angelo and Marqus Long Black Bomber Jacket and Jeans, DNA 2050 Watch, Red Converse, D’Angelo’s own

Grey Dress and Necklace, Lane Bryant Red Belt, Target Textured tights, True Star Closet Boots, Eboni’s own

DAIMON

MICHELLE

MARQUS

KAREN

G-Star Jacket and Jeans, DNA Black Tee and Graphic Tee, Target Shoes, Daimon’s own

Colored skirt, Designed by Michelle Black top, Tights, Shoes, Michelle’s own

SPIFFE Tee, Designed by D’Angelo and Marqus Black Jeans and Jacket, DNA 2050 Gym Shoes, Marqus

Metal Necklaces, Made by Karen Purple dress with black details, Marshall’s Textured tights, Shoes Karen’s own

ELEMENTS OF STYLE BOUTIQUE, 1130 SOUTH WABASH, ELEMENTSOFSTYLEBOUTIQUE.COM • SOLEMATES, 2708 N. HALSTED, SOLEMATESCHICAGO.COM

Jeremih: An Artist of Many Talents

BY JASMINE MORALES, MALCOLM X COLLEGE, AND GYASI SUTHERLAND, FRESHMAN, COLUMBIA COLLEGE CHICAGO

H

ow many artists do you know are actually real artists? Many artists who enter the music business don’t have the all-around skills to create an entire piece of music. But Jeremih is different. Within this last year, he has proven to be a “REAL” artist. He writes his own music, plays his own instruments, and has a one-of-a-kind voice. True Star sat down with Jeremih recently, and learned quite a lot about this young Chicagoan.

Jeremih: The Artist Currently working on his highly anticipated sophomore album, Jeremih has locked himself in a St. Louis studio to supersede the success of his self-titled debut Jeremih. That record debuted at number six on the Billboard 200 and sold 59,000 copies in its first week. In less than a year after being signed to Def Jam Records, Jeremih has already toured the country on the America’s Most Wanted Tour alongside headlining acts Young Jeezy, Soulja Boy, and Lil Wayne, an experience he described as “amazing and surreal.”

Jeremih shows a genuine belief in Chicago artistry, and agrees that more Chicago artists should have the opportunity to be heard to ensure that our city is recognized for our great amount of talent. “Chicago is a talented city,” he said.

“I’m shocked that with the amount of talent [here], there’s not one solid major label base in Chicago.”

Although he is busy touring and meeting deadlines for his sophomore effort, he still resides in Chicago, making an effort to attend talent shows and collect demos.

He is looking to extend his GO Management front line in hopes of giving fellow Chicagoans more opportunities in the industry. “We’re just looking to expand with a lot of great artists on the roster,” he said. “I’m all eyes and ears for new talent.”

Jeremih: The Person Despite his fame, Jeremih has been able to keep it real. He’s so comfortable with being himself that when the America’s Most Wanted Tour rolled around to his hometown, he surprised his fans by jumping out of a van into the concert lines. Yes, “a day in the life of Jeremih” was being filmed, but his real motivation for entering the crowd was to show some love to his city. “I just felt like that was my city,” he said.

“I was happy to be home, and when we pulled up and saw the line I was excited.”

26 TRUE STAR MAGAZINE

Growing up on the Southside of Chicago, Jeremih was like many Chicago teens.

He played football, basketball, and baseball, and was even on the swim team.

Although he maintained a level of excellence in school—he was able to graduate a year early. Jeremih was no angel “I was bad. I ain’t gon lie,” he said about his time at Morgan Park. “My mom used to drop me off at school and I used to leave.” He also admitted to some inexcusable behavior that led to detention and even suspension, saying that he made dumb teenage mistakes in high school but has learned from them.

A huge believer in education, Jeremih enthusiastically offered his celebrity to the Chicago Public Schools back-to-school campaign, encouraging students to attend the first day of school.

And while playing sports kept him out of danger and big trouble, it also introduced him to music. While he would be on the field he would hear the marching band play and always felt he was on the wrong team. His senior year he joined the marching band, and it was then that his passion for music began.

Jeremih: The Cook Over the last year, Jeremih has traveled the world, an experience that has broadened his tastes. He recently tweeted: “Today was the 1st tyme I actually enjoyed sushi.” Although he loves his sea and soul food, he had to acquire a taste for much foreign food. “Going over seas to London and Paris, you know obviously they don’t have [American food] out there,” he said. “The taste of the food was something I really had to get used to.”

He also gave us some insight on one of his New Years Resolutions. “With this new year, I wanted to change my eating habits and my diet. I ain’t never been one to take off my shirt or nothing, but I understand it’ll sell a couple hundred more albums.”

“JEREMIH SHOWS A GENUINE BELIEF IN CHICAGO ARTISTRY, AND AGREES THAT MORE CHICAGO ARTISTS SHOULD HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO BE HEARD. “ Jeremih loves his food—he’s a sucker for catfish, greens, and macaroni and cheese. And if you want to catch him eating in Chicago, a safe bet is at the Melting Pot, his favorite Chi-Town restaurant. “It’s a good first date. You can make your own food.”

But he is not simply a dining out man. “I’ve been cooking since seventh grade, or at least trying to cook. When I’m at home I love cooking cat fish, spaghetti, and sliced garlic bread.”

“Trust is definitely key. If two people have trust and love for each other, then nothing can separate them. Nothing will get in the way.”

Just like everyone else Jeremih has had his share of break ups. His song “Buh Bye” was written from personal experience; it came from a difficult break up with a girl whom he thought was “the world” at the time.

With Jeremih being from Chicago, you know we had to ask him what his preference was when it came to Flaming Hots or Crunchy Curls. He surprised us by saying Flaming Hot Puffs. “I buy a big bag and eat ‘em with a sandwich,” he said.

Jeremih: The Lover Not only does he cook for himself, but he used to cook for his high school girlfriend. So, are they still together? “Ummm…no, I’m not with her,” he answered.

“We separated after high school. She went on to college [and] so did I. That’s usually what happens unless you have a good understanding and trust with whoever you’re with.” He continued, excitedly: “Right now I am single, but I do have someone that’s tryna to do something.”

Ladies, he may be single, but not for long! He does have some celebrity crushes, saying Alicia Keys is his “wifey to be. As an artist/pianist she’s just phenomenal.”

Jeremih is quite the ladies man, and the best advice he gave for all young couples was to find trust.

“When you listen to what people say on the outside it eventually alters your relationship,” he said. “I eventually began to see in her what people were trying to tell me. I just was blinded for a second. And that’s when I wrote the song, saying as many times as I tried to step away and say buh bye. It was hard to look her in her eyes and her face and say that to her.”

So, is settling down in Jeremih’s near future? “I dont know. I can’t really say that.

I just kind of live life by the day. I wouldn’t really want to perceive my future like that. I just wanna live it out.” Though Jeremih is still young and focusing all his time on his career, he would eventually like to settle down. “I do plan on settling down in the future. I don’t want to be a single, childless man at the age of 50.”

There you have it Chicago. Hopefully you learned something about this hot Chicago artist steaming up the charts and the hearts of many young girls around the world. Jeremih’s success has brought hope to many Chicago artists, and we will continue to follow him on his rise to fame. Be on the look out for his next album, dropping in the spring of 2010.

TRUE STAR MAGAZINE 27

Omarion and his music. “I came up with the name to help people identify the realness in me,” he explained, “and not just the artist Omarion.”

At 25, the R&B hit maker has reached a peak in his career. “My style has evolved in the way that anyone would grow. I feel like at this point in my life, being 25, and starting as young as I did, I feel like I elevated with time.

The best albums were created around my age. Michael had Thriller when he was 25.”

As well as Omarion has been doing, you would think that he is settled in his career, but not at all. He has so much ambition and is clearly not afraid to reach for the stars in knowing what he wants. “I would be happy with three million sold albums. That’s successful. But really successful would be five million or six million or eight million, or anything above that.”

O So Ambitious

Omarion has definitely replaced the illusion of a boy with the stature of a man, and if showing us his growth musically wasn’t enough for you to handle, his approach on accomplishment is flawless. “You can’t be afraid to fail in order to obtain greatness,” he says.

O

If you have any doubt that Omarion isn’t going far in his career, his music speaks for itself. With influences like Michael Jackson guiding his pathway to success, it’s apparent that Omarion is going to stay one of the hottest R&B singers in the game.

“I really looked up to Michael Jackson, and he passed away. I feel like it’s a responsibility of mine to keep what he had going. Keep that entertainment and that greatness alive.”

Four years after 21, this is what we’ve been waiting on. With the release Ollusion, his third studio album, we can clearly see the growth in

Success comes in many shapes and forms, and Omarion has hit them all. With B2K, countless hit singles, a number of albums, plus unforgettable movies under his belt, Omarion continues to evolve and grow right in front of our eyes.

BY BRIA CROSS, SENIOR, THORNWOOD HIGH SCHOOL marion is back and hitting the ground running with hot new singles that are keeping the clubs on fire. It’s been a long time since we’ve heard hot new music from this B2K alum. As expected, he hasn’t disappointed.

Jermaine Paul: Taking the Spotlight

BY BENITA BROWN, SENIOR, LINDBLOM TECH HIGH SCHOOL

A

n Alicia Keys concert at an R&B live night turned into an opportunity of a lifetime for singer-songwriter Jermaine Paul. After being spotted in the audience by the songstress, Paul was able to showcase his talent. He then became part of her crew of background singers, and was featured in songs like Diary, Unbreakable, and If The World Was Mine.

“Working with Alicia has been a dream come true,” says Paul. Now he is making his way to his own spotlight. While still singing backup, Paul balances his solo career, sometimes having to use hotel rooms to record his music—apparently they make great studios. His new single, Airplane, highlights his sultry vocals. He describes his musical style as “Authentic, special, original. A good mixture between soul and rock, with some pop and R&B—something that everyone can vibe with.” He plans to bring something inspirational and fresh to his music.

Besides singing, Paul involves himself in charity work at the United Methodist Church in New York where he grew up. It is there where his music career began, starting 28 TRUE STAR MAGAZINE

“PAUL WAS ALSO ABLE TO TRAVEL THE WORLD, TO BUILD CHURCHES IN AFRICA AND MOZAMBIQUE BEACH.” off with his family band, learning the drums, and then piano and guitar.

He was also able to travel the world, to build churches in Africa and Mozambique beach. “It’s something I don’t get asked about a lot. I keep it what it is—as charity.”

With everything Jermaine Paul spends his time on, he desires to keep putting out music that makes people “shut up and listen.” His favorite aspect of music is its ability to be replayed and inspire people, maybe not the first time, but another moment in their life.

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TRUE STAR MAGAZINE 29

Roll Da Reel: a teen film series

BY MARKITA WATTS, SOPHOMORE, HARLAN HIGH SCHOOL

W

ith the help of more than 25 teens from Harlan High School, along with sponsorship from Red Bull and Columbia College’s Art Up Program, TrueStar put together the “Roll Da Reel” Teen Screen Series and After-Party.

Films written and produced by teens were shown, and the films were split into three categories - AIDS/HIV, Teenage Pregnancy/Relationships, and Dating and Manhood. Each of the categories had problems that teens go through today. After each film was shown, Q&A sessions were held with the actors and directors. Here are a couple of examples of submissions coming from across the country: Reflections was about a group of female teens who went to get tested for HIV together. One girl was a virgin until one night her college boyfriend came over and she had sex without protection, only thinking about the four-letter word he told her. (I LOVE You!) The Monster was about three male friends who all wanted the new girl on the block, but only one of them knew the correct way to approach her. He had one

huge problem – he had full blown AIDS. He thought maybe she was going to be scared of him but she wasn’t and they became really good friends.

Premature was about a girl who got pregnant and found herself helpless.

She had her baby in a tub and made a huge mistake - she threw her baby in the garbage.

Manhood was about a young boy whose role models in life were an abusive father and abused mother. The boy had to decide whether he was going to follow his father’s footsteps or make as many good decisions as he could.

The after-party was attended by hundreds of teens that got a chance to drink free Red Bull, eat, play DJ Hero, and of course dance! To see pictures and videos from the party, go to TrueStarIs.com!

PHOTO CREDIT: DEANDRE MCCOTTRY , SOPHOMORE AND RASHON SNYDER, SENIOR - JULIAN HS - RICKY POWELL, FRESHMAN, UTI 30 TRUE STAR MAGAZINE

TRUTH IS… TAKE THIS AND LISTEN CHICAGO IS MORE THAN WHAT IS WRITTEN OR SAID IN THE MEDIA TRUTH IS… I AM NOT MY ENVIRONMENT I LIVE IN CABRINI GREEN AND I AM A STRAIGHT A STUDENT TRUTH IS… I AM A FOSTER CHILD LIVING IN AN ABUSIVE HOME BUT MY MUSIC ALLOWS AN ESCAPE FROM IT ALL TRUTH IS… CHICAGO IS A PLACE TO ROAM A PLACE THAT CRUSHES YOU YET MAKES YOU STRONG TRUTH IS… CHICAGO IS US WHEN YOU LOOK INTO OUR EYES THE SKYLINE IS FOREVER RELEVANT TRUTH IS… CHICAGO IS ME AN INSPIRING TEEN! True Star Radio and True Star Magazine are doing a series about teen life in Chicago. What is your life like? What do you have to go through daily good or bad as a youth in the city of Chicago? How does violence affect you and what are your solutions? Hit us up with your videos, music, artwork or fashion designs and let us know how you feel!

UPLOAD IT TO TRUESTARIS.COM TRUTH IS… forum or tag us on facebook.com/truestarmag.

WRITTEN BY SHANTEL JARMON, SOPHOMORE, DOMINICAN UNIVERSITY

Under The

Radar

Suave’ The Clutch

mars musical style Electric. An amplified something everyone can love.

uniqueness We are doing us. We really don’t know what everybody else is doing. We are not trying to compete. We just want to

make good music. We are from Chicago but we are just some kids from the suburbs.

musical style My style is pretty versatile. I like to touch

base with a variety of characteristics; this allows me to reach a broader audience and helps to provide them with a closer understanding of me personally.

Surely I like to have fun in song, but like in real life, I try to focus on self-reflection and personal development as well. It’s definitely thought-provoking.

uniqueness The extent of my lyrical content is so unsuspecting.

My approach sets me apart from both male and female artists. It refutes the entire male dominance theory and defies the stereotypes inscribed on women who rap.

goal My goal is to reign supreme in all aspects of the music world.

goal In the music business we want longevity and relevancy. We just want to create good music.

“To be the best, you have to beat the best,” and that’s just what I plan to do.

Ultimately, I intend on making timeless music that leaves a lasting impression.

influence Everybody that has put something out. They

influence Because first contact is important when making deci-

Facebook Ayolondon Myspace.com/ayolondon Twitter- @ayolondon2

edly admire his wisdom and on-going ambition.

have influenced us—even the songs we didn’t like gave us ideas of what not to do.

Management djgeno@gmail.com Milesmorrison489@gmail.com

32 TRUE STAR MAGAZINE

sions, I would say that my older brother had a subconscious influence on my rap endeavors. He was the first person I remember expressing my interest to.

Musically, hands down Jay-Z serves as my most dominant influence. I devot-

Contact: www.myspace.com/itssuave www.twitter.com/itssuave thechiclutch@gmail.com Booking Info: Contact Punchie – Manager (773) 828-6726

Demi Lobo musical style My musical style would be classified as

R&B/Pop. However, I am trying to classify myself into my own category and brand. It’s in to be unique, and that’s me. My music is more upbeat and makes you want to dance. I am currently working on a ballad to show my fans a dif-

Miranda

ferent side of me.

uniqueness As a singer, songwriter, dancer, and entertainer,

I’m on a constant grind. I’m in school, working a regular job, and performing non-stop. So for me it takes motivation, drive, vision, and passion. I’m in to win it, and there’s no stopping me now. Since I write all of my music, I am able to relate to it emotionally, which fans appreciate, especially with such hits as “Drama Queen,” “Swag King,” and “Nightmares.”

goal My goal is to create my own, by being different yet still accepted.

musical style My musical style combines elements of R&B, Soul, Pop, and even some gospel.

uniqueness What makes me different from other artists is my unique tone and style, as well as the fact that I write all of my music.

goal My goal in life is to be happy and successful in all that I do.

I put myself on a three-year plan; this plan includes things that I aim to achieve by the year 2012. And with faith and determination, the fruits of

To be loved by all in every market. To have every media and entertainment circuit wrapped up and consumed in Demi Lobo. So much so, that I’m literally thrown in your face whether it is via radio, internet, or television. Also, to be

labor will begin to show.

there to give my fans all they need.

Clark Sisters, Lauryn Hill, Mario, Brandy, and Musiq Soulchild. These artists are true singers; I hear the passion in their voices. It is very important that artists actually “feel” what they sing.

influence My musical influences would most definitely be

Brandy, Lauryn Hill, and Whitney Houston. They inspire me to stay true to myself and to be me at all times. I hope to have this same influence and impact on my generation and the ones to come.

influence My influences in music include Kim Burrell, The

Life influences include my mother. She is my backbone in everything I do.

I aim to be like her spiritually, and mentally. She is a true strong woman of God.

For info or booking contact: KC, manager for Demi Lobo 312-285-8929 contactdemi@aol.com www.twitter.com/KC_BusinessBoss

Pinky Johnson, management 708-799-4109

www.twitterc.com/KANDIconda Contributed by A.J. Linton

Mirandajmusic@gmail.com

TRUE STAR MAGAZINE 33

TEEN BIZ

Teens in the Workforce

BY AMINAT OLAYINKA AGABA, SENIOR, ST. IGNATIUS COLLEGE PREPARATORY

The Chicago City Treasurer is a proud partner of Chicago Youth Saves, True Star Magazine’s Teen Biz and On the Money Magazine.

“SO WHAT DO WE DO WITH NO MONEY AND NO EXTRA TIME? WELL, MY ADVICE TO YOU IS TO GET A JOB WHEN YOU DO HAVE THE TIME.”

“A

nd that will be $21.01.” Well there go my plans for the weekend, you think as you hand over the money to the clerk at the register. You just spent the last of your allowance on that new book that was required for your English class, but you had plans to go see the newest movie with your friends Saturday night. Well, those plans totally went out the window because now your status is just about the same as almost every other high school student at this time of the year- broke.

City Treasurer, Stephanie D. Neely, at the Chicago Youth Saves Conference

Roughly one–third of teenagers between the ages of 16 and 17 are employed in the United States throughout the school year, and all with good reason. For those of us who rely on the all-too-frugal amounts that our parents give for allowance, it’s often just not enough. Tailah Blackmon, a student at St. Ignatius, realized this her junior year and got a job. “I needed money to be able to do the things I wanted,” Blackmon said, “but my mother just wasn’t giving in to the idea of raising my allowance. So, I got a job.”

However, there is one catch to this seemingly easy solution- time. With extracurricular activities like sports and clubs, plus the hours of homework every night, it seems that getting a job is simply out of the question if we plan on walking across that stage before summer vacation. “I don’t want my daughter to work,” said parent Olajumoke Kehinde. “I would prefer her to focus more on her studies. She has time for jobs and hanging out with friends in the future.” Annelise Peper, also a student at St. Ignatius, quit her job of two years when she realized she would rather focus on her studies. “I wanted to be able to keep up with my studies, and there just wasn’t enough time,” she said.

Did you know that credit cards are only 50 years old? Before credit cards people could only make cash purchases, so saving was important. In the last 50 years we have changed our mindset from SAVING to BORROWING. Now we have debts greater then we can handle.

As you take your first job and begin to dream about your future realize this, saving will help you achieve your goals. I often hear adults say, “I wish I would have started saving earlier.” You have the opportunity to learn from others’ past mistakes by starting to save early. I challenge you to set a savings goal for this New Year and stick to it.

Have a great year!

Stephanie D. Neely Treasurer On the Money Magazine and True Star Magazine would like to thank HSBC – North America for their sponsorship of this issue as well as the Office of the City Treasurer of Chicago, Stephanie D. Neely, the Economic Awareness Council and True Star Foundation for their partnership.

So what do we do with no money and no extra time? Well, my advice to you is to get a job when you do have the time.

Start saving up during summer break. Get seasonal jobs during the holidays, like Christmas and New Year. Why not make a New Year’s resolution to save money in the upcoming year? Open up a savings account and start learning how to have good discipline with your money. Let’s see how much we can save during the upcoming year.

Give yourself some credit

BY JASMITH W. JOSEPH, SENIOR, MORGAN PARK HIGH SCHOOL

O

n October 14th the treasurer of Chicago, Stephanie D. Neely, held a free college credit evening. The event was held at the University Center. Neely explained that she wants to not only help college students who are in debt, but also prevent others from falling victim to debt as well.

“The average college student has 4.5 credit cards,” Neely said. Appropriately enough, credit cards was the evening’s main theme. However, many of the college students present only had one card, used for building credit and for emergencies. Also, most of the students with credit cards were juniors and seniors. One student named Jessica said she had two credit cards, the first card for emergencies and the second to help pay off the first.

There were three financial experts on hand to offer insight about managing credit. The first expert was bankruptcy consultant, Edward Sanchez. How do you pay off debt? According to Mr. Sanchez, focus on the debt that will take the shortest time to pay off first, then tackle the others. One of Mr. Sanchez’s final tips for students was not to use the entire line of credit. Just because the limit is $2000 does not mean you need to use all $2000.

The next speaker was Gail Marks Jarvis of the Chicago Tribune. Ms. Jarvis quickly dispelled the myth that credit cards are “for emergencies.” “The best way to pay for an emergency is with cash,” said Jarvis. Every student should have a savings account in case of emergencies. Therefore, if you must use a credit card, you‘ll have the funds to pay it off immediately.

The final speaker of the evening was Tracy Frizzell of the Economics Awareness Council. Her main piece of advice was to start saving now. If the average person saves $30 a week in their 20’s they will reach close to $1 million by the time of their retirement. When you get paid, pay yourself. You are your first bill.

34 TRUE STAR MAGAZINE

College students! Check out www.salary.com for useful tips on student loans, and more!

New Years resolutions from Chicago’s

BY JACKSON BEARD, FRESHMAN, WALTER PAYTON COLLEGE PREP

2009 Money Smart Kid!

THE NEW YEAR IS THE PERFECT TIME FOR NEW BEGINNINGS. THIS YEAR, MAKE THE RESOLUTION TO BECOME FINANCIALLY RESPONSIBLE.

7. PICK A SOURCE -- SHOWS AND WEBSITES LIKE “BIZKIDS”

TRY THESE TIPS FOR 2010!

YOUR INCOME FIRST. SO, IF YOU DECIDE TO SAVE 20% OF YOUR

1. MATINEES -- TICKETS ADD UP! ATTEND MATINEES WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS —THE MOVIES ARE THE SAME, JUST CHEAPER TO VIEW! 2. CLIP COUPONS -- COMBINE DISCOUNTS ON DRUGSTORE ITEMS AND SAVE A LOT OF CASH! 3. PACK LUNCH AT HOME -- A PB&J AND AN APPLE COST AROUND $.80, BUT SCHOOL LUNCHES COST $2.00. OVER THE COURSE OF THE 40-WEEK SCHOOL YEAR, YOU CAN SAVE $240!

4. USE YOUR LIBRARY -- YOU HAVE ACCESS TO THOUSANDS OF FREE BOOKS, MOVIES, AND MAGAZINES IN YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY. 5. DISCOUNT DAYS FOR HAIRCUTS -- TAKE ADVANTAGE WHEN SALONS CUT PRICES! 6. THRIFTY SHOPPING -- SHOP IN CONSIGNMENT STORES FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS! FOR THE CASUAL BUY, WATCH FOR SALES.

(WWW.BIZKIDS.COM) AND “IT ALL ADDS UP” (WWW. ITALLADDSUP.ORG) OFFER FINANCIAL ADVICE FOR TEENS. 8. PAY YOURSELF FIRST -- COMMIT TO SAVING A PERCENTAGE OF $30 PAYCHECK, PUT $6 AWAY IMMEDIATELY. 9. MAKE A BUDGET -- LIMIT SPENDING AND DEPOSIT EXCESS MONEY INTO YOUR SAVINGS ACCOUNT TO REMOVE ANY TEMPTATION! KEEPING YOUR SPENDING IN CHECK WILL BE USEFUL IN THE LONG RUN. 10. START A BUSINESS -- START A FORMAL BABYSITTING SERVICE, TUTOR KIDS, OR BRAID HAIR. THE POSSIBILITIES ARE ENDLESS!

Bonus Tip THINK ABOUT YOUR FUTURE-SELF WHEN IT COMES TO FINANCIAL DECISIONS. LET WHERE YOU WANT TO BE AND WHAT YOU WANT TO HAVE IN 10 YEARS GUIDE YOUR FINANCIAL CHOICES.

Saving for college in a recession

BY CHELSEA FARKYE, SENIOR, SAINT BENEDICT HIGH SCHOOL

Facts & Scholarship Organizations www.smarterdollars.com/

F

or most high schoolers, college is a realistic goal. However, for some, the goal seems out of reach because of cost. College tuition now averages between $20,000 and $30,000 per year. In this day and age, where do colleges expect families to get that type of money? There is a way out, but it requires sacrifice.

But that is not the case for Azucena de La Torre, also a senior at Saint Benedict.

“I plan to go to college for two years and major in business,” de La Torre said.

“After that, I will take a year off and go to school for mortuary science.”

One way to tackle this problem is to get a job and start saving.

That is the solution that Michelle Arriola, a senior at Saint Benedict, took. “Since my brother left for college last year, I have seen how hard it has been for my parents to pay for his tuition,” said Arriola. “So this summer I decided to get a job to help my parents save. So far I have about $1,200, but I bought a MacBook so there goes $1000.” She will continue working while in college, because “that is the only way I will be able to pay for the little things.”

Because of these difficult choices faced by today’s students, the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office started a program called Bright Start. Maurice Johnson, a marketing representative for the program, describes Bright Start as a “program that provides an easy to use, tax advantaged way for anyone to save money for college expenses. It gives a parent, no matter the financial status, the ability to save money.”

When it comes to saving for college, you can never start too early. The more initiative you take now, the better off you will be in the future.

forms/2009_10collegecost.html

• Minimum wage: $7.25

(www.laborlawcenter.com/t-federalminimum-wage.aspx) • Total average cost for four-year public colleges in 2009/2010

o In-state students: $19,388 o Out-of-state students: $30,916 • Total average cost for four-year private colleges in 2009/2010: $39,028

Scholarship organizations www.Unigo.com www.Fastweb.com www.Meritaid.com www.blackexcel.org/100minority Bright Start Organization www.brightstartsavings.com

Saving Matters...

• Resolve in 2010 to save more money by paying yourself first!

• Explore low- or no-fee savings accounts to help keep your costs down.

www.yourmoneycounts.com

10

Tips for selecting a college

BY JASMITH W. JOSEPH, SENIOR, MORGAN PARK HIGH SCHOOL

BASED ON A TEXT SURVEY TO SENIORS WHO HAVE ALREADY STARTED THE APPLICATION PROCESS AND THOSE WHO ARE EITHER IN OR HAVE GRADUATED FROM COLLEGE. POSED QUESTION: “WHAT ARE THE TOP FIVE FACTORS A SENIOR SHOULD ASSESS IN COLLEGE SELECTION?” OF OVER 25 RESPONSES, THESE WERE THE TEN MOST POPULAR, WITH ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FROM COLLEGE ADVISORS AND UNIVERSITY WEBSITES.

1. Major 2. Ranking3. Tuition4. Location5. Public vs. Private-

Be sure the school offers your major. Most schools have a list of offered majors on their website.

The list is usually under “academics.”

$

This is really important. Where a school ranks gives you an idea of the school’s strengths and weaknesses. Look for the ranking of your major. The higher the ranking, the better the school is in that particular major.

Do you know how much it will cost to attend your school of choice? Take advantages of financial aid scholarships;

they will come in handy.

Some students want to stay close to home, while others want to explore new settings. Think about whether you will

benefit most from a suburban, urban, or rural setting.

Believe it or not, there is a difference between private and public institutions. Public schools

are partially funded by the government, so tuition is less. Private schools are only funded by tuition, so the tuition is more. Also, some private schools have religious affiliation, another factor for you to consider.

6. Student/teacher ratio-

Some students thrive in large campuses with over ten thousand students, while

others prefer smaller educational communities with personal attention. The student/teacher ratio gives you an idea of how many students attend the school. If you do better in smaller classes, look for schools with a smaller ratio like 15/1 as opposed to 30/1.

7. Diversity8. Opportunities/Organizations-

The real world is full of diversity, so attending a diverse institution will give you exposure to people of different

races and ethnicities. Take a look at the school’s demographics and percentages from previous years.

Do you aspire to study in France or China? Most schools have

opportunities for students to study abroad. If that’s not your fancy, you could be active on campus, which helps with networking. You can always add any organization you are a part of to your resume.

9. Admission Requirements-

Be sure to know what the school requires prior to applying. Most schools

require at least 2-4 years of core subjects and 1-2 years of fine arts classes and electives. ACT/SAT scores are important as well. Make sure you have successfully completed the school’s requirements and have the minimum scores needed. Pay attention to deadlines! Be certain that you submit your application on time!! That is the most important requirement!!!

10. Accreditation-

Many students are unaware of accreditation. Accreditation means the university is recognized as

an institution of learning. Before you do anything else KNOW that all the schools you are interested in are accredited.

STUDENTS SHOULD NAVIGATE THE UNIVERSITY’S WEBSITE; IT IS GREAT TOOL TO GET INFORMATION ABOUT THE SCHOOL. 36 TRUE STAR MAGAZINE

TRUE STAR MAGAZINE 37

INSIDE & OUT

e h T

s r e n n i W

Art Finalists

e l c r Ci

TEEN LEADERSHIP CLUB: BREYONTA PENDELTON, DEANNA ROBERTSON, EBONI JONES, ERIQUE JONES, SHARKIRA ADDISON PALMER PARK

DID YOU KNOW: WHETHER YOUR STATUS IS POSITIVE OR NEGATIVE, YOU CAN STILL LIVE.

RONALD JOHNSON Junior Corliss High School

True Star partnered with Walgreens, Chicago Public Schools and The Department of Health to sponsor the Expression Against HIV/AIDS Art & Literacy contest.

Teens submitted essays, poetry, and artwork to build awareness to combat the disease in urban communities. Thank you to all the participants and finalists for your efforts and for taking a stand against HIV/AIDS. Grand Prize Finalists received $1,000 for themselves and $1,000 for their schools. All other finalists received a $100 gift card to Walgreens.

Poetry/Rap Finalists AMBER JONES Junior Walter Payton Prep High School

OSCAR A. JAQUEZ Junior, Carver Military Academy

DID YOU KNOW: FEMALE CONDOMS ALSO REDUCE THE CHANCES OF HIV INFECTIONS.

SMILE CLUB:

LUIS CABRALES

DID YOU KNOW:THOUGH THERE IS NO CURE FOR AIDS IT IS FULLY PREVENTABLE.

Junior Benito Juarez Community Academy

38 TRUE STAR MAGAZINE

LEEZA COX SOPHOMORE DARIA SILER - SENIOR King College Prep High School

DEVON BOYSON Simeon High School

DID YOU KNOW: MORE THAN 1 MILLION AMERICANS HAVE AIDS.

Essay Finalists ANGELIQUE SUTTON

MARKITA WATTS Sophomore Harlan High School

DID YOU KNOW: AFRICAN-AMERICAN WOMEN HAVE THE HIGHEST GROWING RATE OF HIV/AIDS CASES.

Senior Hyde Park Career Academy

DID YOU KNOW:AIDS DOESN’T HAVE A LOOK, OR AN AGE, IT CAN HAPPEN TO ANYBODY.

SHAQUILLE ROBERTS Sophomore Hyde Park Career Academy

JOSEPH JOHNSON Sophomore Corliss High School

DOMINIQUE LA’SHAE ROBERTS Senior Dunbar Vocational Career Academy (not pictured)

TRUE STAR MAGAZINE 39

Wasted: Teens and Alcohol Abuse

BY ADRIANA “NANI” ROSALES, SOPHOMORE, WRIGHT COLLEGE

D

id you know that 60% of teens and young adults engage in life-threatening behavior everyday? Alcohol abuse might not seem dangerous, especially when it is so socially acceptable to have a drink or two, but excessive drinking can send you to the hospital or even worse!

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), nearly 599,000 college students a year are injured in alcohol-related accidents like alcohol poisoning and motor vehicle accidents. Despite these disturbing statistics, an alarming number of teens and young adults continue to disregard the tremendous risk.

Annually, more than 150,000 college students under the age of 21 develop alcohol-related health problems. A vast majority of teens who begin drinking by the age of 15 will become alcoholics before they’re 21. Sadly, 1,400 American college students between the ages of 18 and 24 die each year from alcoholrelated illnesses and injuries.

Alcohol poisoning can cause long-term effects on a young person’s body. One of the most common effects is liver disease. More than two million Americans suffer from it, as well as alcoholic hepatitis, better known as inflammation of the liver. Alcoholic hepatitis symptoms include jaundice (abnormal yellowing of skin, eyeballs, and urine), fever, and abdominal pains.

Worst of all though, nearly 10 to 20% of alcohol abusers eventually develop scarring of the liver known as cirrhosis. This scarring is very serious because it kills liver cells and leads to scar tissue. The liver cells that don’t die multiply to replace the dead cells, leaving a bunch of regenerative nodules (new liver cells) within the scar tissue. This is irreversible, and can also be fatal. If the person does not stop

drinking, they may end up requiring a liver transplant just to stay alive. Excessive drinking can also lead to other health problems, such as heart disease, cancer, pancreatitis, epilepsy, and nerve damage.

“There are far too many adolescent alcohol-poisoning cases!” said Maria Sanchez, a registered nurse at St. Elizabeth Hospital. “Heavy drinking at a young age causes dehydration and many other complications in the body, which lead tons of youth to the ER everyday. Young people don’t realize that their bodies are still undeveloped and cannot sustain alcohol or its effects the way a grown adult’s body does. It’s devastating to witness.”

Dennis Parker of Oak Park was a victim of alcohol poisoning a couple of months ago. Parker was at a party with his buddies and got so wasted that he blacked out and woke up in the emergency room. “I woke up out of a deep sleep puking, afraid, in a cold sweat, and injected with several IV’s,” he said. “I couldn’t talk or even recall what happened!” Parker’s doctors said that he drank so much that he suffered a serious muscle-spasm, which is why he could hardly move and eventually passed out from dehydration.

Parker remained in the hospital four days. “When I was discharged, I vowed never to drink again,” he said. “I didn’t realize that I was putting my life at risk. And quite frankly, having a drink is not worth dying for!”

Parker makes a very important point: drinking is certainly not worth losing your life. We teens and young adults need to realize we still have much life to live; no party, no friend, no lover, no moment is worth your life. Put a hold on drinking because you never know if that drink in your hand may potentially be your last.

And remember to always ask yourself: “Is it really worth it?”

Fighting cancer on all fronts

BY JESSICA HUBERT, SOPHOMORE, UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO LABORATORY SCHOOL

I

magine that you got a call from your doctor, saying that you had cancer. What would you do? How would you cope? Who would you talk to?

You may not personally know a young person with cancer, so you may be thinking, “What does this have to do with me?” The answer is: A LOT. Being a child cancer patient, or a child whose parent has cancer, takes physical and emotional strength, and while the doctors treat their cancer, it’s our job as young adults to treat their spirits. A good place for kids and teens to help is Gilda’s Club Chicago, a social, emotional, and informational support center for men, women, and children with cancer, as well as family and friends of those afflicted.

“I decided to volunteer at Gilda’s Club because I felt it would be a great opportunity to give back to my community,” said Reem Khondakar, a high school sophomore. “My family has been touched by cancer and I realize how hard it must be, not only for adults, but especially for children who are faced with these tough situations. It gives me satisfaction to know I can help out in any sort of way.”

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What many people don’t realize is that these organizations, along with the people who need them, would be lost if it weren’t for the support, ideas, and experiences of everyday people like you who volunteer there. “[For me,] the most rewarding part of volunteering is knowing that I’ve spent my time helping someone else,” Khondakar added.

If you really want to make a difference in someone’s life and give back to the community, or if you want to volunteer with child cancer patients, visit Gilda’s Club Chicago online at www.gildasclubchicago.org or call 1-312-464-9900.

411 on HPV on HPV The 411

BY JAMELIAH SALTER, JUNIOR GWENDOLYN BROOKS COLLEGE PREP

ACCORDING TO CDC.GOV, ROUGHLY 20 MILLION AMERICANS ARE INFECTED WITH HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS. Questions about the stages, risk, medicines, or anything else can be answered at www.cdc.gov and www.webmd.com.

W

PHOTO CREDIT: JULIAN PHOTO TEAM

hen feeling indulged to know how healthy you are, it’s best to know one thing: if you don’t feel right, see a doctor. No one thinks that pain during sex, discharge tinged with blood, or unseemly bumps are normal. These are symptoms of the human papillomavirus, commonly known as HPV. But if you don’t see these symptoms, don’t jump for joy just yet, because most people with HPV don’t have symptoms until they are very advanced.

According to cdc.gov, roughly 20 million Americans are infected with human papillomavirus, while 50% of sexually active men and women will get it at a point in their lives. Genital human papillomavirus is a very common sexually transmitted infection. There are over 40 types of HPV that can infect the genital areas. For women, HPV appears as abnormal cells on the cervix that grow out of control. In the case of men, finding out the diseases caused by HPV is more important since scientists are still struggling to find out how to screen the virus for males.

HPV can be screened for females by checking for changes in cervical cells. More

Important medical facilities for

Mercy Hospital & Medical Center

than likely this is done in a Pap test, and can be prevented in a number of helpful ways. The most effective way to avoid HPV is to remain abstinent.

treating or learning more about human papillomavirus:

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Surely something more selective is to wear condoms and catch it as early as possible. There is a vaccine available for males and females, commonly known as Gardasil. Gardasil protects both genders against most cervical cancers and genital warts caused by HPV. It’s recommended that females take the vaccine between ages 11 and 26, and that males take it between 9 and 26.

Alivio Medical Center 966 West 21st St Chicago, IL Phone: 773-254-1400

Roseland Christian Health Ministries 9718 South Halsted Street Phone: 773-233-4100

Be protected! Get vaccinated!

BY KEE’ANA WOLFE, JUNIOR, NORTH LAWNDALE COLLEGE PREP

S

hould a person feel protected or worried when getting vaccinated?

Some parents wonder why their children must receive shots for diseases that do

Vaccines may not be perfect, but they protect us from many diseases, and

not seem to exist, like diphtheria, measles, or other once-common diseases that

should keep people on the road to good health, not worsen the conditions.

Anyone who is getting vaccinated should be knowledgeable about the risks of the vaccination, but also how it may benefit them.

are preventable by vaccines. It leads many to ask, “Do vaccines really help prevent infectious diseases and save lives?” But immunizing individual children helps the entire community as well as the child. Those who have received a vaccine but not developed immunity may also be protected.

“It depends on who’s getting vaccinated to know who it affects or whether it’s safe,” said Danielle Vance, a mother and student at Columbia College. Vance worries when it comes to her child getting vaccinated because a child’s body isn’t as strong as an adult’s, but also because it isn’t safe for babies that are just

Vaccines are safe, though there is a risk of allergies with any injection. Still, these risks are low. “It’s better to prevent the diseases than try and treat or fix them later,” Jones said. Most people who go to the doctor receive some

being born. “Individuals react differently to vaccines,” she said. “There`s no way to predict the reaction of a specific and or particular vaccination.”

Like any medication, vaccines can cause side effects. Minor and or mild side effects from vaccinations may result in headaches, fevers, wheezing or

or all vaccines at the same time, but depending on your age, you have to receive a certain vaccine numerous times. “Vaccines are for our own good because we are exposed to so many things in little bits,” Jones said. “If enough people choose not to get vaccinated, it will not only hurt the people who are unvaccinated, but also their community.”

sore arms. And according to Chicago pediatrician Dr. Christopher Jones, Vance is right to get the facts. “If you are under the age of 18, vaccinations are available,” Dr. Jones said. “If your insurance doesn’t pay for it, the government promises to pay for it with a program called Vaccines for Children.”

Some people choose not to get vaccinated because of the things that they are faced with in life. Some reasons people may go against shots is because of fear, rumors, sickness, or maybe because medicine is available later. Go get vaccinated because it’s the best thing medicine has given us.

TRUE STAR MAGAZINE 41

YOUNG LUV

Would you date a teen parent?

BY SOHNNELL HAMPTON, JUNIOR, KENWOOD ACADEMY

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his cutie comes up to you, and you give him/her your number because you are feeling that person. Weeks pass and your new boo tells you that he/she has a shorty. Does he or she having a baby change the way you feel?

Teiona Johnson, 17, a junior at Dunbar High School, has dated a teen father and said she wouldn’t do it again. Her experience taught her that teen parents don’t have time to be in relationships.

“Their child is the number one priority, and a relationship would be based on the child’s schedule,” said Johnson. “I wouldn’t feel as if I had to play step-mommy because the child has a mother.”

Sondra Delaney, 16, is a teen mom, and she said that if you can handle a relationship and a child then go for it, but bond with your child before you do.

Johnson’s twin, Keiona Johnson, 17, said a guy having a baby isn’t an issue. She’s never dated a teen father but said the relationship wouldn’t end just because of his child.

“At this moment I don’t have time for a relationship,” said Delaney, a junior at Hyde Park High School. “It’s too much with school, my child, and my baby daddy.

If I were to date, I will let whoever I’m talking to know that I have a kid. After some time goes by I would then introduce him to my son.”

“As long as he has time for me, then it’s okay,” Keiona said. “Having and taking care of his child shows me he’s responsible and mature. But if I found out someone I was seeing had a child and wasn’t up front with me, then I would stop dating that person because he wasn’t honest.”

No matter where you stand on the subject, dating a teen parent is a decision that should be given serious thought. If you really like the young mother or father try not to judge them for the choice that they made. Give the relationship a chance instead. You just might be happy you did.

Does your boo like your do?

BY MAYA WADE, JUNIOR DANIEL HALE WILLIAMS PREP SCHOOL OF MEDICINE

L

“WHETHER HE IS YOUR BOYFRIEND OR JUST A CRUSH AT SCHOOL, A SIMPLE HAIRSTYLE CAN REALLY HAVE AN EFFECT.”

PHOTO CREDIT: CARLTON RICE, SENIOR, JULIAN HIGH SCHOOL

adies, have you ever spent all day at the shop trying to get your hair done to look good for your boo and he doesn’t even notice?

Girls love to look good because people are always watching. Whether he is your boyfriend or just a crush at school, a simple hairstyle can really have an effect. Sometimes our idea of what looks good is completely different from what guys really like. For example, kinky twist and kinky braids are very popular among girls. We can sit down and have a whole argument about which looks better but in a survey done on Facebook, boys don’t even know the difference!

Even after they found out which is which they still agreed that they don’t like either one!

Ever wonder if the rumor that micros can turn a boy on is true? Well according to the survey, it’s true. Boys like micros because they say it gives them something to pull on, though they have to look nice and fresh. Although boys do like weaves sometimes, they typically prefer natural hair.

But can girls pull off the dread lock look? Well ladies, according to our unscientific poll, dreads are a definite no-no! Boys have absolutely no interest in dreadlocks on girls.

42 TRUE STAR MAGAZINE

Ladies, do you have a story about your guy trippin’ because you went from permed to natural? Fellas, do you prefer weave, permed or natural? Check out truestaris.com and chime in on the debate!

The “L” Word

BY CYNTHIA PAZ, GRADUATE, ECA HIGH SCHOOL

F

rom drinking to sex, teenagers love to rush into things they aren’t prepared for.

Most of these acts are physical: sex, drugs, tattoos, piercing. However, there is one temptation that teens rush into more than any other: Love.

Relationships are a brand new experience for teenagers. Most don’t realize they need to be kept at a steady pace. They get so swept up in the excitement of having a boyfriend or girlfriend that they lose any sense of self-control and give in to their impulses. The words “I love you,” as grownups always preach, should not even be thought about when starting a relationship. All relationships must be taken slow. If you don’t realize that then you’re in real danger of getting your heart broken.

So now you’re going to say, “Age is nothing but a number” and being young doesn’t mean you can’t be in love. Well, if you think that’s the only reason it isn’t smart to fall in love too soon, you’re sadly mistaken. Loving someone too soon, at any age, can result in emotional pain. You won’t realize how painful it is to be rejected until it actually happens. Most don’t realize that “Love at first sight” is not

PHOTO CREDIT: JANELLE PENDER-BAY, SOPHOMORE, JULIAN HIGH SCHOOL

During the beginning of the relationship—popularly called the “Honeymoon Stage”—one might confuse lust, excitement, and intense feelings for love.

Although this affection could progress to love, it is important to remember it takes time. The early stages of a relationship should be used for getting to know one another and learning if both partners are compatible. If a relationship lasts beyond the Honeymoon Stage, there is a possibility the affection could turn into love.

a reality. Building a relationship with someone takes time and commitment. When you start dating someone, it’s illogical to think you’re in love. If you smother them

In the end, real love is worth the wait. There is no need to rush the process, or assume the first person you date is “the one.” Looking for love is a somewhat

with affection, it could overwhelm them and ruin the relationship.

pointless task. When you don’t worry about it and just let love find you, everything else falls into place.

Disapproving Parents vs. Young Love:

the eternal struggle

BY CYNTHIA PAZ, GRADUATE, ECA HIGH SCHOOL

A

s if teens don’t have enough to worry about when it comes to relationships,

disapproving parents can make things even more difficult. Whether it was a bad first impression or an unknown reason, parental condemnation can cause serious problems. Sometimes they have good reason to dislike their child’s new

One solution is to sit all three of them down and start talking. Seems simple enough, right? It should be, but this can be an incredibly difficult task. Try finding a neutral place like a restaurant or coffee shop, and lay down your thoughts and feelings so that each side knows where you stand. Once you’ve finished, let them talk, and act as the discussion mediator. Allow each to speak without interruptions and figure out what everyone needs to be happy. Do your best to avoid arguments, and hopefully, if everyone is patient and understanding, the problem will be easily resolved.

Another way to figure out what’s wrong is to ask your parents straight up! Maybe there’s something they heard about your partner that they disapprove of. Maybe it’s the way he or she dresses or behaves. Then there’s also a possibility that it’s not your partner’s fault at all. Sometimes, parents just need time to adjust when their teen starts dating. It’s important to realize that they don’t mean to upset you (at least not all the time). They just have not yet learned to trust you with dating. Discussing the situation with your parents is a good way to open the 44 TRUE STAR MAGAZINE

communication lines, and relieving their uncertainty will help strengthen all three relationships in the parents-you-partner triangle.

But what if your parents are right? As strange as it may seem and as much as you’d hate to admit it, they might have a good reason to dislike your partner.

If your boyfriend/girlfriend is disrespectful or doesn’t treat you the way they should, your parents have every right not to like them. Sometimes you don’t really see the subtle flaws in a lover’s personality, so if your parents have good reasons to dislike the person, you might want to reconsider whether or not the person is right for you.

Either way you want to look at it, asking yourself these questions—instead of simply assuming that your parents hate you—might help you find a solution to your problem and bring much needed peace-of-mind to your parents as well as your partner. Good luck!

PHOTO CREDIT: LEEZA EARL, JUNIOR, JULIAN HIGH SCHOOL

boyfriend/girlfriend, and sometimes it’s just a gut feeling. No matter the case, there are ways to fix the problem.

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46 TRUE STAR MAGAZINE

TRUE STAR MAGAZINE 47

ON THE COURT

An agent for

change

BY SIMEON FRIERSON, JUNIOR, EAST-WEST UNIVERSITY

T

he Chicago Bulls dynasty of the 1990s was built on a solid foundation of unforgettable players, and among the best was B.J. Armstrong. Drafted in the first round of the 1989 NBA Draft, Armstrong was a vital point guard for the Bulls, a key contributor to their first three championships.

Armstrong grew up playing basketball in the city of Detroit, where he never idolized or dreamed of being any other player than himself. He enjoyed learning and playing the game, a game that became a way of life. After winning a trio of rings with the Bulls and retiring after 11 pro seasons, the Iowa University graduate worked in the Chicago Bulls front office as a special assistant.

Armstrong’s spark that grew into the flame that now heats up his business stateof-mind started by simply taking a look around. Since his earliest days, questions about the league’s inner-workings had floated in his mind. “How does this arena really work?” he asked rhetorically. “How does [a building like the United Center] come about? It doesn’t happen by chance.”

They say curiosity killed the cat, but not this lionhearted business man who wanted to know what was going on within his jungle “to make this such a production,” as he puts it. The business side is what runs the sport, and after retiring as a player, Armstrong trained for the business of basketball. While the focus of sports may be on the competition, Armstrong has learned that success in both basketball and life is more about cooperation.

In his new career as a sports agent, Armstrong is preparing young NBA athletes for the adversities they will likely encounter. What he aims to do is help players identify the challenges they are going to face, a variety of the downsides along the way, and provide them with insight from his playing days while giving them a chance to form a relationship with someone who was once in their position.

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“IF YOU’RE GOING TO BE SUCCESSFUL, IT’S ABOUT COOPERATION, NOT COMPETITION. COOPERATION WAS A CONCEPT THAT I BEGAN TO REALLY BE CONSUMED WITH.” “If you’re going to be successful, it’s about cooperation, not competition,” Armstrong proclaimed. “Cooperation was a concept that I began to really be consumed with.” He continued: “There are rules to the universe, and you violate those rules by competing with other people about who can do what. Everyone has to fill their role to make this a smooth operation.”

In other words, the only competition is with yourself. It is all about bringing your ‘A’ game each and every time, because nothing else is within your control.

Armstrong knows what it means to “get your education,” and it goes beyond his time at Iowa. No financial aid was necessary; he embarked on a self-journey for that delicious fruit of knowledge. The questions he listed above were truly running through his head while playing, but his personal quest for knowledge and information did not prevent him from career highlights like leading the NBA in the 1992-93 season in three-point percentage or making the All-Star team in 1994.

Life outside of the full court 5-on-5 is about organization. How are you as an individual able to be organized for the velocity of life? According to Armstrong, success comes from experience. “Doing something is different than learning about something or talking about something,” he said. “If you do it, you’re going to learn something the book didn’t prepare you for.” As a result, Armstrong deals with life as it comes. He doesn’t map out his destination, and believes you get out of it what you put in. “I don’t think there is anything to prepare you for life,” he said. “You’ve got to live it. When situations come I deal with them right then and right there.”

You prepare and prepare and sometimes you just have to roll with the punches and figure it out. That is what B.J. Armstrong is doing, and he is using his education--his quest for knowledge--to help him succeed at “whatever’s next.”

Wayne Blackshear

THE H O O P S H I G H HYPE

an ordinary star

BY ELIZABETH PRESTONS, JUNIOR, COLLINS ACADEMY

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ayne Blackshear, a 6’5, 210 pound shooting guard for Morgan Park High, is one of the most sought-after high school basketball players in the nation. His numbers this season are phenomenal – including a 42-point, 18-rebound game at the Chicago Public Schools Basketball Shootout. His success on the basketball court has not gone unnoticed, but an exploration of Wayne Blackshear as a person, is a little harder to find. Recently, I had a chance to talk with the basketball sensation and find out what it’s like to live his life.

All of us have strengths and weaknesses, and Blackshear is no different. He feels he is a great leader, both on and off the court. His attitude, however, is another story. Blackshear has made a few anger-fueled, bad decisions in his life.

Sometimes the consequences weren’t so great. The details of such events aren’t important; it’s how he deals with the resulting situations. Blackshear’s method is to just stay focused on the positive, and not worry about the negative.

As for his goals this season, they all revolve around making Morgan Park city and state champions. To do this, he says he’s going to stay focused on immediate games, and listen to Coach Nick Irving. The key to Blackshear’s game is aggressiveness. Coach Irving has given him a lot of freedom, and playing multiple positions is crucial to his development as an overall player.

So what about distractions? Doesn’t all of this attention and notoriety make concentrating hard? Not really. Blackshear says he keeps his mind on the important things in life. Having a strong, involved mother definitely helps. She makes sure he doesn’t lose focus of his grades and career. He is also close friends with Waukegan High star Jereme Richmond. The two of them compete, and this keeps Blackshear focused on his game.

With such a promising future in basketball, one might think Blackshear’s sole focus is the NBA. Yet this 3.0 student has more than just sports planned for his life; Blackshear has every intention of finishing college and studying engineering.

So what is it like to be Wayne Blackshear? Apparently, nothing out of the ordinary. He’s taking his success in stride - just a regular teen who happens to be a pretty good basketball player.

Top 10 HoopsHIGH Players HOOPSHIGH HAS COVERED A PLETHORA OF EXCITING GAMES AND PLAYERS OVER THE YEARS. HERE ARE OUR TOP TEN CHICAGO PUBLIC LEAGUE BOYS BASKETBALL PLAYERS WHO WE COVERED:

1. Jamarcus Ellis, Westinghouse – so creative and tenacious 2. Sherron Collins, Crane – an unstoppable force 3. Luther Head, Manley – the star in HoopsHIGH’s first-ever high school game 4. Will Bynum, Crane – covered him in an all-star game – lit it up!

5. Derrick Rose, Simeon – maybe the best on the list but HH only covered him once – a quiet, undeniable leader 6. Hayward Brown, North Lawndale – heart of a lion 7. Jonathan Mills, North Lawndale – dominating rebounder and competitor 8. Jamal Brown, Westinghouse – critical in the state championship run 9. Patrick Beverly, Marshall – great alone but always made others better 10. DeAndre Thomas, Westinghouse – incredible hands and balance for a giant Honorable Mention (not all are CPL) – Shaun Livingston, Peoria Central; Andre Iguodala, Springfield Lampier; John Taylor, NLCP; Tyron Kent, Crane; Chris Singletary, Farragut; Zilijan Jones, NLCP; Isaiah Evans, NLCP; Tony Bennett, Westinghouse; Jermaine Winfield, NLCP; Kordero Smith, NLCP; Marcus Jordan, Whitney Young; Andrew Ready, Westinghouse; Shawn Smith, Westinghouse; Tony Bennett, Westinghouse TRUE STAR MAGAZINE 49

IS COLLEGE

SAFER THAN HOME?

B

efore we head off to college, our parents warn us of all the dangers that college entails. There’s the risk of underage drinking or drug use, stranger danger, and let’s not forget the endless things that could happen at a party.

Although these scenarios and others are nightmares to our parents, for some of us the real danger is within steps from our own houses.

With the recent death of Tyrone Williams, a University of Illinois student who was gunned down during a visit home to Chicago, it makes me wonder if students would be safer at college than at home? Williams came home in late September to look for a homecoming outfit, and while in front of his own house with his cousin, Percy Day, the two were shot. This shooting not only devastated Chicago, but the University of Illinois community as well. With the increasing number of Chicago Public School deaths, a lot of students use college as a way out of the “hood” to get away from all the violence happening here.

Chenae Scott, a freshman at DePaul, agrees. “College is safer than Chicago because you can get away from the violence and not worry so much when

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“IT DEPENDS ON HOW YOU PRESENT YOURSELF. IF YOU APPEAR VULNERABLE YOU MAY BECOME A TARGET.”

BY KATE MANOUCHEKA AIREY FRESHMAN, UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS you’re in a different location.” I’ve had discussions with my Chicago friends on campus, and they were hesitant to return for the weekend knowing what awaited them at home.

Some students, though, disagree that Chicago is the one to blame. “It depends on how you present yourself,” said Jermaine Harris, a freshman at Devry University. “If you appear vulnerable you may become a target.” With college shootings at universities such as Virginia Tech and Northern Illinois, some students are convinced that one is at risk everywhere. “[College is] as dangerous as anywhere else,” Harris said.

Whether you choose to stay on-campus at college or stay at home to commute to college, you must be aware of your surroundings. Getting an education in a safe environment is certainly an ideal escape from the violent reality that many Chicagoans face, but danger exists everywhere. So be careful of the decisions you make because it’s better to be safe than sorry.