By: Dondric Joseph, Feature Writer

I remember growing up and hearing adults say, “life is all about decisions.” It always sounded like it made sense but it wasn’t until I was an adult and began to make my own decisions that I really understood what they were saying. So many times we see celebrities on the news for simply making the wrong decisions. As humans, it’s not our job to judge because everybody has made a bad decision or two in their lifetime. What’s important is how you come out of that bad decision. Some celebrities seem to never learn their lesson in that bad decision but there are also some who’ve come out as a better person because of their bad decision.

Hip Hop superstar, Clifford “T.I.” Harris is currently experiencing the results of not learning from a bad decision. In 2007, the rapper was arrested for attempting to purchase a large amount of machine guns and silencers. Before serving his sentence, T.I. seemed to have learned his lesson and began to speak to youth about staying away from violence and out of trouble. The MTV network even allowed him to have a reality show in which he personally met with troubled teens and attempted to sway them away from the troubled path in which they were headed.

One year after his release from prison, things began to start looking pretty good for T.I. He had married his long-time girlfriend, Tiny, he was working on a new album and he was starring in a new movie. T.I.’s new movie “Takers” debuted in theaters on August 27^th and by Monday it was reported to be the number one movie in the country. Unfortunately, less than a week later T.I. was arrested for drug possession. I’m sure T.I. didn’t think he would be arrested for drugs, he probably just saw it as if he was simply celebrating his success. Unfortunately, his bad decision may cost him his career, family and most importantly his freedom.

It doesn’t always have to be this way. Take a look at Michael Vick. Before his arrest, Vick was the highest paid player in the NFL and loved by just about everyone. Unfortunately, he got involved with dog fighting and eventually lost it all: the endorsements, big contract, fans and eventually his freedom for two years.  After being released from prison, Vick was given a second chance to return to the NFL. He humbled himself and signed a very small contract, compared to what he was making before his arrest. He played very little time and when the following season started he was still coming off the bench. Eventually Vick proved himself and has yet to get into any trouble with law. He’s now the Eagles starting quarterback and is actually starting to regain his respect not only as a player, but also a person.

Life is all about decisions. We’ve seen over time that the people who make bad decisions end up with bad outcomes. We’ve also seen people make the right decisions and end up with great outcomes. I’m encouraging you all to make the right decision!

By: Audreyanna Garrett, Published Author & Features Editor

The media has not ceased to cover the every popular tragic ending of the two year relationship between female teen idol Rhianna and Chris Brown.

What was thought to be innocent teen love was halted due to domestic violence. What was a very common argument amongst relationships lead to a brutal fight.

Many speculated whether Rhianna provoked Chris Brown; this rumor was laid to rest during her special on 20/20.

(Na can you insert part 2 of the video here? The website is listed below)

The fact that was never ignored nor denied was that Rhianna and Chris both grew up in homes where the witness domestic violence. I am sure Rhianna vowed that she would never marry a man like father and Chris did not wish to model his father’s actions toward his mother. The two fell victim to a situation that they both grew up in. It would be wrong to say either was entirely at fault for the situation. Although American morals would acclaim that Chris was extremely at fault because a man should never raise his hand to a woman; you have to question why Rhianna would allow her self to remain in a situation that unhealthy. She confirmed that the abuse exceeded 7 times and on average it takes battered women to endure at least 6 encounters of abuse before they leave.

TCM Readers, please be advised that love is not abuse. Love is not controlling. Recognize the signs and get out while there is time. Abuse is not one sided. We get easily wrapped up in the generalized perception of abuse as it is mainly targeted to women or only crucial when it happens to a woman; that is not true. Domestic violence is equally as awful whether it comes from a women or a man.

TCM Readers, please do NOT be scared to tell your story.

For more information on how to look for signs of abusive partners please visit http://www.drdaveanddee.com/ab.html.

For verification of information or to view all videos in their entirety please visit www.abcnews.go.com/2020.

TAMEKA RAYMOND’S THE LOST ONES FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES ITS BI-ANNUAL ‘YOU ARE NOT ALONE’ WINTER RETREAT

‘You Are Not Alone’ Winter Retreat will host several young women age 12-18 and workshops focused on health, beauty, fitness, self-esteem, and education.

ATLANTA, GA (November 20, 2009) The Lost Ones Foundation founded by celebrity stylist and fashion maven Tameka Raymond, announces its “You Are Not Alone” Winter Retreat. Held bi-annually, the inaugural winter edition will be held Saturday, December 19 - Thursday, December 23, 2009 at Chateau Élan in Braselton, Georgia (a suburb of Atlanta, GA).  Young women age 12-18 will participate in 5-day series of seminars and workshops designed to address medical and mental health issues, college preparatory information, physical fitness and nutrition, mentor matching, beauty and image consulting -conducted by leading professionals offering amazing personal experiences and knowledge in their respective fields. 

‘You Are Not Alone’ retreat serves to motivate these deserving young women and offer them positive alternatives to their lifestyles.  Potential participants age 12-18 are encouraged to submit essays describing their background and why they’re a good fit for the winter retreat.  Criteria for selection are young women - victims of early pregnancy, truancy, defiance, criminal behavior and violence, drug use, sexual misconduct, and other self-deprecatory activities.

The retreat includes 5-days of extensive one-on-one sessions and seminars resulting in empowerment tools to increase productivity in all facets of their lives. The themes for the week-long transformation experience include “You Are -Beauty, You Are- Health, You Are- Proof, You Are- Virtue, and You Are- Style”. The retreat’s final day of transformation will include a full make-over and fashion show starring participants-showcasing their new inner and outer growth.   “Our goal is to inspire, mentor and aid these troubled  young women, offering them practical and life changing retreats that will provide direction, a renewed outlook, and a strong sense of purpose”- affectionately states The Lost Ones Foundation Founder Tameka Raymond.  

All essays considered for selection to attend The Lost Ones Foundation’s “You Are Not Alone” Winter Retreat are due by December 4^th.  For more information on participant guidelines, or to make a charitable donation, visit The  Lost Ones Foundation website.

About The Lost Ones Foundation

Founded by celebrity fashion maven Tameka Raymond, The Lost Ones Foundation, Inc. is an independent non-profit organization established in 2009 which serves an alienated, marginalized community of young women age 12-18, who are often ignored, set aside, disregarded or ultimately dismissed as “The Lost Ones”.

It is the intent of The Lost Ones Foundation, Inc. to equip these young women with the tools that will encourage them to thrive, which ultimately sets them in motion to elevate the next generation. Through the building of self-esteem, there are so many obstacles that can be overcome. We want the participants to know that we are here with open arms and that “You are not alone.”

For more information about the foundation, and donations, log onto www.lostonesfoundation.org.

About The Lost Ones Foundation Founder Tameka Raymond

Celebrity stylist Tameka Raymond had aspirations to develop a career in the fashion industry as early as high school. Armed with a strong will to succeed and a sharp eye for fashion, she attended the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) in 1994 as a Merchandising Marketing major in Los Angeles. She went on to work as a dresser for Giorgio Armani and other designer shows while attending FIDM. The resident Atlantan is probably best known for propelling Lauryn Hill’s vintage haute couture look into the limelight, branding Lauryn as an International Fashion icon. Her impressive clientele roster reads like a VIP list to the swankiest of affairs. Tameka has lent her creative talents to legendary soul singers like Patti Labelle, Chaka Khan and Aretha Franklin to chart-toppers such as Lauryn Hill, Jay-Z, Usher, Toni Braxton, Mary J. Blige, Ciara, Keri Hilson, Timbaland, Maxwell, The Fugees, Nas, T.I, Janelle Monae, Dr. Dre and more. Her work has covered top magazines Harpers Bazaar, Esquire, GQ, Rolling Stone, Seventeen, People, Teen People, The Source, Vibe and Details and graced pages of high-end fashion publications ranging from Glamour to Essence.

By: Audreyanna Garrett

With the great amount of evolution that has taken place in United States to date, we could never get away from the fact that we are still a mass of individuals.  Individuals that possess and express individual views and opposition. 

At no one point in time will every American agree with the President.  There maybe some issues in reform that I may disagree with but neither of us, outside of the Presidential Cabinet, possess the knowledge needed to execute such an immense position.  The job description and characteristics necessary to make up that of the President of the United States of America are so unique that only a select few possess them, which gives the explanation as to why there is only one every four to eight years.

Do I think that President Obama’s decision to address the student body was a bad idea?  No I do not, but what I will say is this; it is always nice to have positive reinforcement of the importance of education.  There are so many aspects of society that are deterring our own from furthering their education, that if we, we being “WE the people of the United States,” do not encourage our own, who will?

There were alot of assumptions that President Obama wanted to address the student body with hopes of influencing political views and positions.  This is ridiculous.  I am not one for assumptions; you can not form a sound opinion on that.  I know that when I was in school, if the President decided to address the body, we researched the topics, viewed when televised, and summarized the experience, at its conclusion, as a whole.  There was no OPTION. 

The President’s decision was indeed respected, although it may have been ridiculed on a lower level, it was always respected.  I would hope that as Americans we stand behind our President.  Because regardless, no one party, no one race nor one gender of persons got President Barack Obama elected alone; we all did.

Audreyanna Garrett, Feature Writer, Published Author

With the summer coming to a close, some of you are nearing a very exciting time in your life as the school year approaches so is senior year, and for some of you this means freshman year of college!  The excitement and anticipation takes over us so, that we seldom take time to reflect on the qualities and components of being a successful college student.

Not all of us are what we like to call “College Material”.  Some students learn by doing not by studies.  Although life experience in college is inevitable; your degree is obtained through proven academic success.  You must be able to clearly interpret the difference between work and play. 

One key component to becoming a successful college student is FOCUS.  College can be a very distracting place; it’s new, there is loosely defined structure, no parents, lots of girls, lots of guys, plenty to re-direct your focus from the goal; you have to be able to DISCIPLINE yourself.  You have to be RESPONSIBLE because you will indisputably be held ACCOUNTABLE for your progress; you know when your assignments are due you must be discipline enough to execute. 

Most thriving college students are PROACTIVE…this eliminates procrastination.  Now, some of us work well under pressure, and if this is you I would certainly not try to encourage disuse of anything that works.

Try to remain POSITIVE.  College is a new experience and it can be a little challenging at first to grasp on to the routine.  You must always remember your purpose; NEVER LOOSE SIGHT OF THE GOAL. 

Be OPEN-MINDED.  Be willing to learn from others.  Most excellent students are those who utilize college to obtain culture experience.  The best knowledge is obtained through experience.  A degree signifies discipline; experience affirms capabilities.

All of the traits I have listed are qualities that should be practice, prior and post any college experience.  These are qualities that not only make you GREAT college students but VICTORIOUS, to say the least, in your future endeavors. 

So, what do you think…are you “College Material”?

By: Audreyanna Garrett, Feature Writer & Published Author

I am aware that the summers can get very boring!  You get all hyped up about taking a break from school and you waste it away doing nothing; not being as productive as you could.  Anticipating its conclusion and then the bright ideas form about what you could have experienced or done to maximize your summer.

I have constructed a list of 20 things that you can indulge in for the summer, have fun and stimulate your brain all at the same time! 

Drive is the hot new quality of teens!  I see so many young individuals maximizing their time by developing new things…For instance why just listen to a song, record or band when you can create one! 

1. Write a song

2. Start your own band

3. Get a summer job

Find something easy and fun for you to endure go the entire summer; i.e. work at an amusement park or water park, favorite fast food chain; or better yet find a job in a potential career field.   Explore internship opportunities at your dream job of choice.  It’s never to late to plan for the future.  Start now, open a savings account and save money.

4. Visit another country

5. Go backpacking

These may not be plausible for all our Teen Chic Mag Readers but for those who can, expand your vocabulary and world experience.   It is never too late to explore world culture first hand. 

6. Become a photographer

There is nothing more powerful than capturing life through film.  The more you explore life the more you will want to remember it.  What better way to capture the prime years of your life than through a lens?

7. Go camping

8. Take a boat ride

9. Go canoeing

Explore the outdoors; appreciate the serenity that lies there.

10. Become a mentor

INSPIRE.  You never know how many children you can inspire and redirect if you do not influence them; become a mentor.  You can make mentoring fun; go to the zoo, museum, read he/she a story, build a tree-house, teach a new sport, inspire entrepreurialism by building a lemonade stand, etc.

11. Learn a new language

12. Work on brain teasers

13. Learn how to sew

14. Work on the car…explore auto-motives

15. Learn to play chess

16. READ

17. Create a website

18. Make a movie

Mental stimulation.  Expose yourself to unknown tasks.  I guarantee you your test scores will be higher and you will comprehend swifter.  Impress your teacher and increase you class rank; it makes for better collegiate acceptance.

19. Research your family tree

Get familiar with your family history; your findings could be extremely interesting.

20. Create a scrapbook of everything you did this summer…

 What a way to remember all that you did or did not do for the next summer.

So, Teen Chic Mag readers, I encourage you all to BE CHIC and OWN your future.  MAXIMIZE THIS SUMMER’S POSSIBILITIES.

HAPPY SUMMER TEEN CHIC MAG!!

 By: Audreyanna Garrett, Feature Writer

February 17, 2009 President Barack Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 into law.  This recovery plan was created, developed and supported, not by one party or by those that reap the greatest, but it was embraced by all Americans.  This recovery plan was composed with great compromise  of many individuals and groups of varying viewpoints. 

This recovery plan is said to establish three to four million new jobs by the conclusion 2010.  These jobs contribute to the reconstruction of America; reconstruction of levies, and remodeling transits.  An educational investment said to develop 21st century libraries, classrooms and labs for millions of children, and create $2,500 annual tax credit to make college more affordable for middle class families.  This puts college degree in the in reach for all Americans. 

This plan encompasses ways to conserve energy; alternative electric grids that allow us of alternative energy.  “This investment will place Smart Meters in homes to make our energy bills lower, make outages less likely, and make it easier to use clean energy;” with hopes that we save over one billion dollars by the reduction of energy costs (President Obama). 

The plan of course encompases the ever popular tax cuts; specifically developed for middle class working Americans.  President Obama refused to continue to allow wealthy Americans to reap from middle class Americans hard work.  President Obama remarks, ” …it’s a plan that rewards responsibility lifting two million Americans from poverty by ensuring that anyone who works hard does not have to raise a child below the poverty line.” 

President Obama has also created Recovery.gov to allow Americans to verify the actions of the plan; to ensure that it enforces and establishes all that it’s said to.  I advise you to take advantage of this website.  Ignorance is not bliss.  Know about what your President is doing for you and what you are capable of receiving.

For more information, or to verify any of the information presented in this article, please visit www.barackobama.com.

By: Inez T. S. Woody, Feature Writer

Prom Etiquette

With Prom season upon us, every girl aims to be the most poised, beautiful and envied at the Prom. It is of course the most important dance if high school senior year. It is one night where you are more dressed up than you have ever been, with gorgeous dresses and suits and everyone is eager to watch you drive off into the sunset for the most anticipated event of senior year. It’s all about the dress, hair, make up, shoes and of course, accessories! But more importantly, your date. Will you take your high school sweetheart, a neighbor, the boy in your 3rd period Biology class, ot have you no clue at all? Either way, prom should definitely be a night to remember.

Times definitely have changed, but please know that proper behavior is always in good taste no matter what generation you belong to. I know you’re shaking your heads thinking, here is another “It ain’t like it use to be” and “Back in my day” stories, but please know that it was only (ah-hem) a little over ten years when I attended my senior Prom. ☺ Trust me, that’s not that long ago. I am very positive you will look absolutely glamorous and stunning on your big day so I won’t bore you with tips on material lavishness and which color is hot this year but my goal is to remind you of a few tips for prom etiquette.

- You don’t have to have a date to the Prom. Go solo, or with friends. There’s no reason to miss out just because someone did not ask you.

- If you have not been asked, you should probably ask your potential date to the Prom a month in advance to give them time to prepare.

- Dress appropriately. Know the difference between tasteful and “over the top.” (Would hate for you to not be able to go into the the Prom because of your outfit…)

- It’s proper for the guy to buy his date a corsage.

- It doesn’t matter who drives, or whether you rent a limo. Rented cars are not a requirement. If a parent ot older sibling has a nice car and trust you, it will definitely be cheaper but make sure you’re responisble.

- It’s Senior Prom! Don’t stand around looking at each other at the Prom. Make sure you DANCE! However, if you dance with others, be sure your date gets the first and last dance of the evening.

- Do not forget your manners. Whether you want to believe it or not, manners and etiquette are highly important when it comes to the Prom.

- Do not create Prom drama. Drama arises from dress to date choices and everywhere in between. Do not be the one to stress it! If things really do get bad for you or your feelings get hurt, take a break and get some fresh air. Things will work out in the end even if they turn out to be different than you imagined.

- Do not be late! I know that you want to make an entrance, but all of that hard work should not go to waste and you do not not want to be left behind either.

-  Do not feel pressured into doing anything you do not want to do. Whether it’s having sex, drinking alcohol or doing drugs. Remember, it’s your night to remember and you want it to be a pleasant memory.

- If you’re attending an after-party at someone’s house or hotel room, please be respectful. No loud behavior and no destruction of property. Be especially respectful of your hosts’.

Remember the bottom line is to adopt rules of etiquette that promote mutual respect, support safety and security, while maintain personal dignity. These ideals never grow old. You want it to be an experience that you can treasure for a lifetime. Have fun on Prom night! Be fablous but more importantly, be responsible. Do not behave in a manner you will regret later. Relax, have a good time and enjoy your friends, after all, Senior Prom is once in a lifetime.

By:  Audreyanna Garrett, Feature Writer

In the last five years we have seen this generation greatly experiment with sexuality.  More teenagers are engaging in same sex relationships and are more confident and open with their decisions.  It seems as if this is the most popular homosexuality has ever been amongst middle and high school students.  So we question, “Is it more or less a ‘fad’?”  Is it more openly experimented because it is more widely accepted?  In this article I will ask the question most of us know the answer too and others ponder assumptions. 

More teenagers are open to the experiences.  I know when I was in school homosexuality existed but it was not confronted.  It was ignored by those students who did not partake in it.  No, I do not believe that those students who choose to be homosexual were not denied friends but I believe that their thoughts would have been that they were scared to put their sexuality in the face of other students.

When I questioned a recent graduate of  Willowridge High School, “Why do you think that homosexuality is common amongst your generation?” She replies, “I think it’s because it is so widely exposed now and about two years ago same sex marriage was as an option; with certain laws that are passed, it is no longer prohibited.  People are not getting stoned anymore.  It is on TV more often, there are no longer penalties for homosexual scenes.  There are more homosexual parents raising children and it’s ok.”

A general assumption is that we are not as provocative enough when discussing sex to all children and teenagers.  The more we leave to question the more they want to explore.  The exploration is taken to another level when children and teens are not properly sexually educated.  With that being said, nothing taught to me by professors in Sexual Education class could have prepared me for the real thing.  But I was also never pressured or influence to experience same sex relations.  The one question left unanswered is, “Is pressure a factor in the popularity of homosexuality amongst teenagers?”

Maybe you can help me answer that question…

By: Shauna Lanea, Feature Writer

One of the reasons Alcohol Awareness month is held in April is because it is the beginning of the prom and graduation season, a time when celebrations can turn dangerous for underage drinkers. Many communities conduct anti-drinking campaigns during the month aimed at curtailing alcohol use before during and after the special events. Consequently, prior to prom, many schools plan programs aimed at educating kids against the dangers of drinking.

These programs feature special speakers, presentations and even displays of crashed vehicles to emphasize the danger. Some groups utilize some form of a “sober contract” a promise that students sign agreeing to remain alcohol and drug free during the prom and graduation season. At the event itself, many schools across the nation have begun using breathalyzers to test the blood alcohol content of prom-goers and turning away at the door those who have been drinking.

Parents talking with their teens about drinking on prom night should be part of an ongoing conversation with them about the hazards of drinking. Recent statistics only affirm parents’ concerns about teenage consumption of alcohol and prom night has been seen, in recent years, as a drinking rite of passage for some adolescents. Unfortunately, many adults turn their backs on or indulge in underage drinking, especially around special events like the prom. Some parents feel they have little to worry about as long as their kids aren’t drinking.

Every single injury and death caused by drunk driving is totally preventable. Although the proportion of crashes that are alcohol-related has dropped dramatically in recent decade, there are still far too many such preventable accidents.

By: Shauna Lanea, Feature Writer

Thoughts of relaxing or having fun during Spring Break is on every one’s mind. However, this time of year brings opportunities for teens to make choices that are potentially dangerous. Spring Break parties and trips all pose situations where teens need to make choices. Alcohol use is a complex issue in that it is influenced by cultural, family and community traditions. The fact that it is legal for adults and illegal for those under 21 further complicates how families deal with it.  Alcohol use can have unintended and harmful consequences for not only the teens but family and friends as well.

Teens can even be at risk when they stay at home during the break by themselves. Unsupervised time, money to spend, and peer pressure to “let loose” can be a recipe for risky behaviors, including drug use. Now a days, teens think they are invincible, but we all know that they are not. The best precautions are reminding them of the risks of alcohol, sexual activity, sunburn, date rape, vandalism and more. There are plenty of ways for teens to experience Spring Break in the fun way. It is important to know that teens are encouraged to develop their independence but that independence comes with responsibilities. Keep in mind to indulge in activities that won’t be the cause of your parent’s high blood pressure!

By: Audreyanna Garrett, Feature Writer

Need help making life changing decisions? Write in to Teen Chic Magazine and let me help.  Send all questions to audreyannagarrett@gmail.com. 

Suggested Email Format:

In the subject box please insert “Decisions-Teen Chic”

- State you name

- Where you reside

- The decision that needs to be made

Please submit by the 15th of each month to be considered for the following month’s issue. You will be notified via email if you were chosen. We all have to make life changing decisions, it is better to make them soundly and with careful consideration of every aspect of the outcome. 

Teen Chic Mag wants to help you, write in today!

By: Audreyanna Garrett, Feature Writer

One would suspect the way that the media has been publicizing Shepard Fairey’s arrest is solely based upon the fact that he created a poster, in honor of the President Obama’s vision, and is now being penalized for it. 

South Carolina native, Shepard Fairey, creator of the “Andre’ the Giant has a Posse” sticker campaign, “Obey” street art projects and President Obama’s Hope posters, was arrested due to warrants received January 24th.  The warrants were imposed because of graffiti vandalizing in two locations throughout Boston.  Fairey acquired a case to dispute copyrights of the image used in the creation of President Obama’s Hope Poster. Apparently the image was an Associated Press photo.  Fairey argues that his use of the image is protected with “fair use”; which allows exceptions based on several factors.  The case will be thoroughly reviewed because there is some truth and logic to his argument.  My assumption is that Associated Press only now wants to dispute the image because of the amount of publicity and money Fairey is receiving from his reinvention of the image. 

Fairey, a man of such talent and promise, is now subject to arrest because of 13 prior cases and poor judgment.  We must try and remember that we are individuals and that is never compromised.  We can not allow our desire to be different and challenge the odds get us in avoidable situations.  There is always a right way to be heard.  Street graffitti is illegal and if nothing else, is a ridiculous reason to be put behind bars.  Use your voice but use it wisely.

By: Audreyanna Garrett, Feature Writer

Nineteen degree weather was not enough to keep millions of Americans away and it definitely was not enough to deter me.  As we awaited the initiation of this historical event, our minds fiercely battled our physical resistance to continue to stand and endure the Inauguration of the 44th President of the United States of America, Barack Hussein Obama. 

I had the pleasure of experiencing this monumental occurrence with millions of Americans differing in race, religion and creed.  We gathered in peace, shared uncontrollable emotions and smiles for we all shared a common passion.  The passion of witnessing the United States of America grow; witnessing this countries founding principles emphasized.  We shared the feelings of finally believing that We, The People, of the United States of America can effect change in this country.  We stood together to witness the promise, as President Obama vowed, in all sincerity, to guide this country out of recession, and to encourage Americans to call upon our ability to effect and encourage change.  Through President Obama’s words he spoke of change but with that came the harsh realities of past decisions.   As Obama states in his inaugural address, “Today I say that the challenges we face are real.  They are serious and they are many.  They will not be met easily or in a short span of time.  But know this America-they will be met.”

These words, spoken in confidence, sincerity and adoration restore the hope that always resided in American hearts submerged by fear.  We shall clasp to these words in desperate times.  We believe in our President’s promise and that is why this Presidential Inauguration drew such a crowd. 

“Our challenges may be new. The instruments with which we meet them may be new. But those values upon which our success depends — hard work and honesty, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism — these things are old. These things are true. They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history. What is demanded then is a return to these truths. What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility — a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation, and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task.”

-President Obama-

The strength of heart and character of America was defined by the many individuals whose physical stamina demolished over the hours and were involuntarily forced to retreat. 

With President Obama’s encouragement tears were shed with hope of prosperity for all.  President Obama’s heartfelt presence etched great cheer in the hearts of millions.  And even though we stood ten, hundreds, thousands of feet and watched miles away, we felt like he stood side by side.

By: Madison Jones, Feature Writer

This section is strictly dedicated to those looking for FREE MONEY!

Ron Brown Scholar Program 

Thurgood Marshall College Fund : The Best of the Best.

Fast Web Scholarship Search

Motivating Undergraduates in Science and Technology (MUST)
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration is sponsoring the MUST Project which awards scholarships and internships to undergraduates pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM fields. The MUST Project is open to all students and is particulary focused on engaging students from underserved and underrepresented group to enter STEM fields. The application period for the 4th cohort of MUST scholars is open now through February 1, 2009. Additional information about the program and an application is available at: www.nasa.gov/education/must

USDA/1890 Scholars Program
Please click the link below to access information regarding this program.
2009_usda_1890scholarsapp-1

Simone Youth Foundation
Please click the link below to access information regarding this scholarship program.
http://www.syf.org/syf.aspx?pgID=438

Harvard University
Harvard University announced that from now on undergraduate students from low-income families will pay no tuition. In making the announcement, Harvard’s President Lawrence H. Summers said, ”When only ten percent of the students in elite higher education come from families in the lower half of the income distribution, we are not doing enough. We are not doing enough in bringing elite higher education to the lower half of the income distribution.”

If you know a family earning less than $60,000 a year with an honor student graduating from high school soon, Harvard University wants to pay the tuition. The prestigious university recently announced that from now on undergraduate students from low-income families can go to Harvard for free…no tuition and no student loans!

To find out more about Harvard offering free tuition for families making less than $60,000 a year, visit Harvard’s financia aid website at: http://www.fao.fas.harvard.edu/ or call the school’s Financial Aid office at 617.495.1581.

 The Jackie Robinson Foundation

Intel Science Talent Search (STS)

By: Audreyanna Garrett, Feature Writer

Most are aware that Obama’s campaign was situated to bringing great CHANGE for America. Have you taken the opportunity to enlighten yourself on what that CHANGE entails?

Obama’s plan for America is greatly encouraged by his motivation to encourage Americans to believe that we can influence change and encourage better alternatives in Washington.

In unanimity with Biden, Obama has constructed several new plans that cause for restructure of education programs through the establishment of programs and schools that emphasize early education. The Obama-Biden plan for education includes the implementation of the “Zero to Five plan.” This plan will encourage early education for infants and toddlers to ensure that they are ready for kindergarten. Obama would like to issue grants to promote pre-school admissions.

“No Child Left Behind” is a plan that will restructure curriculum so that it is not solely structured on excelling on standardized tests. The assessments will be revamped to detect each individual students progress to appropriately determine their readiness for the subsequent institution, whether that is middle school, high school, specoalized academies or college. As far as education on a collegiate level, Obama will implement creation of a tax credit in exchange for community service so that college is more affordable and accessible for Americans. This will encourage higher education and develop an incredibly necessary standard.

Obama will provide economical reliefm through tax cuts, the creation of jobs, support of small businesses, reduction of mortgage fraud and many additional plans of action. Obama believes that the redirection of tax cuts from wealthy Americans to the middle class working families will provide Americans with a well needed relief and equality will be reinstated to the tax code. He will jump start the economy with the implementation of a Windfall Profits Tax* to supply $1,000 of immediate assistance to aid with rising bills, the Emergency Energy Rebate. Obama also wants to provide 50 million dollars to the economy to prevent 1 million people from loosing their jobs. He plans to eliminate income tax for senior citizens making less than $50,000 per year, simplify filing for middle class Americans, eliminate bankruptcy loopholes for mortgage companies and raise minimum wage.

President Elect Barack Obama has proven to the United States of America that he is a man of great intelligence and moral fiber. As it is important to elect Presidential Candidates on character, it is equally important to be in tune with your candidate’s views on the country’s issues. Continue to educate yourself on the issues because you have the power to promore great change.

“I’m asking you to believe. Not just in my ability to bring about real change in Washington…I’m asking you to believe in your.”
-President Elect, Barack Obama

Verification of this information along with more information on Obama’s Plan for America can me found on www.barackobama.com/index.php

*A higher tax rate on profits that ensue from unexpected profits (i.e. lottery, inheritance, etc.)