Table of Contents
Welcome
World News
Editor: Khadeeja Ellis
Staff: Kimisha Bostick, Mariela Burgoa, ShaDavia Bryant, Emmanuel Carmona
Local News
Editor: Kelvin Reynoso
Staff: Brittney Manzano, Malika Hinds, Mohammed Sumbundu
Opinion / Editorial
Editor: Dominique Morrison
Staff: Lorraine Avila, Assata Sangary, Jaelle Garcia, André Craigwell
Arts & Entertainment
Editor: Kwadwo Akosah
Staff: Jennifer Miranda, Phylicia Maner, Quanisha Ealey
Music
Editor: Cordell Jacobs
Staff: Leslie Garcia, Donavon Johnson, Heidy Palacios, Hennesys Baez
Sports
Editor: Akil Bulls
Staff: Amauris Pineyro, Ricardo Peguero, Jameisha Barnes
Friday, April 13, 2007
Welcome to Fight the Power!
Legitimate journalists vocalize the ideas, opinions, interests, loves, and fears of the people. Staff writers at Fight the Power! are no exception.
The newspaper created by the 3rd period Writing Genres II class attempts to introduce the important issues of 2007 to the online blogging community while maintaining the unique voice of the Bronx communities they call home.
On behalf of the World, Local, Opinion/Editorial, Music, Arts & Entertainment, and Sports Departments, I welcome you to the Bronx Academy of Letters first publication of Fight the Power!
-Ms. Désirée Battaglia, Publisher & Teacher
*A special Thanks, Peace, and Respect to Mr. Antoine Jumelle and Mr. Ameer Kim El-Mallawany for all of their help with this assignment.
The newspaper created by the 3rd period Writing Genres II class attempts to introduce the important issues of 2007 to the online blogging community while maintaining the unique voice of the Bronx communities they call home.
On behalf of the World, Local, Opinion/Editorial, Music, Arts & Entertainment, and Sports Departments, I welcome you to the Bronx Academy of Letters first publication of Fight the Power!
-Ms. Désirée Battaglia, Publisher & Teacher
*A special Thanks, Peace, and Respect to Mr. Antoine Jumelle and Mr. Ameer Kim El-Mallawany for all of their help with this assignment.
Rats Causing Suffering
By Mariela Burgoa
Imagine being hurt by someone you didn’t know. They hurt you in the worst way possible, taking you to another country, far away from everything you once knew. This is happening, in the form of human trafficking.
Human trafficking is something that is occurring in this society, believe it or not.
People are snared into trafficking by many means. In some cases, physical force is used. In other cases, false promises are made regarding job opportunities, or marriages in foreign countries to entrap victims.
A study in which was lead by the U.S Department of state showed that “At least 34 percent of African countries are major sources for trafficking to Europe. They included Morocco, Algeria, Congo, South Africa, Madagascar, Somalia and Nigeria. In addition, 26 percent -- mostly in East Africa -- reported trafficking to Arab nations.” This is something that is extremely serious yet the media seems not to really pay attention. Many people not only in Africa are suffering.
David Feingold at the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Association (UNESCO), said that statistics show that “Among the top offenders is the US State Department, which in 2002 estimated 700,000-4 million persons trafficked, mostly women and children." Now, it estimates that annually, about 600,000 to 800,000 people—mostly women and children—are trafficked across national borders.
There are few impacts that human trafficking has to shown to the world according to the
wed site http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/rls/33109.htm, “Human trafficking is a multi-dimensional threat: it deprives people of their human rights and freedoms, it is a global health risk, and it fuels the growth of organized crime.”
Imagine being hurt by someone you didn’t know. They hurt you in the worst way possible, taking you to another country, far away from everything you once knew. This is happening, in the form of human trafficking.
Human trafficking is something that is occurring in this society, believe it or not.
People are snared into trafficking by many means. In some cases, physical force is used. In other cases, false promises are made regarding job opportunities, or marriages in foreign countries to entrap victims.
A study in which was lead by the U.S Department of state showed that “At least 34 percent of African countries are major sources for trafficking to Europe. They included Morocco, Algeria, Congo, South Africa, Madagascar, Somalia and Nigeria. In addition, 26 percent -- mostly in East Africa -- reported trafficking to Arab nations.” This is something that is extremely serious yet the media seems not to really pay attention. Many people not only in Africa are suffering.
David Feingold at the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Association (UNESCO), said that statistics show that “Among the top offenders is the US State Department, which in 2002 estimated 700,000-4 million persons trafficked, mostly women and children." Now, it estimates that annually, about 600,000 to 800,000 people—mostly women and children—are trafficked across national borders.
There are few impacts that human trafficking has to shown to the world according to the
wed site http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/rls/33109.htm, “Human trafficking is a multi-dimensional threat: it deprives people of their human rights and freedoms, it is a global health risk, and it fuels the growth of organized crime.”
GLOBAL WARMING: DOES IT REALLY EXIST?
By Khadeeja Ellis, World News Journalist
Are you a believer of global warming? While much of the world conflicts over whether or not this is a serious issue, global warming is happening. The average temperature around the world has increased by one degree over the last century. Human activities such as pollution, cutting down forests, and not recycling, those are a few human activities that affect the greenhouse gases that protect us by trapping the sun’s heat. Human activities are killing life. From the Day After Tomorrow website, which specializes in the study of global warming, “…Simply put, human activities that create pollution are raising the Earth’s temperature. Since 1980, we have experience nineteen of the twenty warmest years on record…” The earth is becoming more dangerous to live on, every decade.
Are you a believer of global warming? While much of the world conflicts over whether or not this is a serious issue, global warming is happening. The average temperature around the world has increased by one degree over the last century. Human activities such as pollution, cutting down forests, and not recycling, those are a few human activities that affect the greenhouse gases that protect us by trapping the sun’s heat. Human activities are killing life. From the Day After Tomorrow website, which specializes in the study of global warming, “…Simply put, human activities that create pollution are raising the Earth’s temperature. Since 1980, we have experience nineteen of the twenty warmest years on record…” The earth is becoming more dangerous to live on, every decade.
Global warming can’t go away but there are ways to help control it or slow it down. As stated by the same website, “These steps include slowing global warming by reducing greenhouse pollution, improving climate forecasting, slowing the loss of biodiversity, and improving water, land, and air quality.” If everyone can do even little things to reduce global warming there wouldn’t be so much fear dealing with weather disasters. Using solar powered cars and recycling are just a couple of ways to help the earth. If we don’t slow down global warming this can result in numerous disasters.
Scientists predict many future global crises. Not only is the Earth’s weather going to change but so is our health. “The impacts of climate change are predicted to be serious and widespread: more vicious weather, shifting patterns of rain and drought, the spread of tropical diseases like malaria, and rapid increasing extinctions of plant and animal species.” Even most animal species are going to die out. Hurricane Katrina was a difficult situation to deal with and if we don’t slow down global warming, even New York City may be hit with hurricanes like that. People who live near coastal regions would suffer the most because of the rising sea levels which can massive floods. Remember the movie the Day after Tomorrow? Well that movie can become real life if global warming keeps increasing!
Death Penalty: World Debate
By ShaDavia Bryant, World News Journalist
“The death penalty is disgusting, particularly if it condemns an innocent. But it remains an injustice even when it falls on someone who is guilty of a crime.” – Giuliano Amato
There is a world debate on capital punishment. Why people oppose or favor the death penalty? This debate has been going on about capital punishment since 1981. The United Nations and European Union oppose the death penalty. Asia and most of America, on the other hand, favor the death penalty. The UN and EU have been especially vocal about it since Suddam Hussein was put to death.
“The death penalty is disgusting, particularly if it condemns an innocent. But it remains an injustice even when it falls on someone who is guilty of a crime.” – Giuliano Amato
There is a world debate on capital punishment. Why people oppose or favor the death penalty? This debate has been going on about capital punishment since 1981. The United Nations and European Union oppose the death penalty. Asia and most of America, on the other hand, favor the death penalty. The UN and EU have been especially vocal about it since Suddam Hussein was put to death.
According to former Mayor George Pataki, capital punishment will “…reduce the number of murders…” Some people on the other hand oppose the death penalty. US Senator, Harold Hughes says, “If a community wants to stop killing it had best begin by stopping killing on it’s own part.” If people want to reduce the amount of murders, why use the death penalty is what some people that oppose the death penalty are arguing Those who oppose also feel what the death penalty goes against human rights.
Crisis in the Dominican Republic
By Manny Carmona, World News Journalist
When poverty exists outside of America, it is often put aside and not recognized. One country is the Dominican Republic.
Many things cause poverty in the Dominican Republic. Things such as natural disasters, lack of education, crimes, governmental, economic and societal problems all play a role in this country’s struggle.
One poor country is the Dominican Republic. In D.R there are governmental and economic policies, that make the poor people poorer, and the rich richer. Langston a writer in the website saxakali.com comments, “The governmental and economic policies of the Dominican Republic take wealth away from the poor, enlarging the gap between the poor and the rich.” Another problem is labor. Langston also comments, “As a result unemployment, poverty is at its highest level.” A lot of people in the Dominican Republic don’t have any jobs. There is a small percentage of the population that take pleasure in wealth but the majority of society are poor. Langston goes further and explains, “The inequality that exist, between the five percent of the population who enjoy wealth, status, and power, the eighty percent who live in abject poverty is perhaps the most important and obvious feature in the Dominican social structure.” There is basically no equality in the Dominican Republic.
Amauris Pineyro, a student at the Bronx Academy of Letters who is of Dominican descent, explains that poverty in the Dominican Republic is increasing rapidly since food is becoming more expensive and there are not enough job opportunities. Another student at the same school who is also of Dominican descent comments “In D.R the poor population is not as fortunate as the one in the United States. For example, they do not get any type of help from the government such as welfare. In a visit over there about three young boys ate the bones I left on my plate because they couldn’t even buy a piece of chicken. I, of course, later bought them an order.”
Poverty is a world wide epidemic, it doesn’t only occur in the Dominican Republic. Every country should have systems like Americans that help the less fortunate with things like rent, food and keeping them safe. This very lucky country, the United States of America, should try and talk to foreign governments to persuade them into helping their poor population.
When poverty exists outside of America, it is often put aside and not recognized. One country is the Dominican Republic.
Many things cause poverty in the Dominican Republic. Things such as natural disasters, lack of education, crimes, governmental, economic and societal problems all play a role in this country’s struggle.
One poor country is the Dominican Republic. In D.R there are governmental and economic policies, that make the poor people poorer, and the rich richer. Langston a writer in the website saxakali.com comments, “The governmental and economic policies of the Dominican Republic take wealth away from the poor, enlarging the gap between the poor and the rich.” Another problem is labor. Langston also comments, “As a result unemployment, poverty is at its highest level.” A lot of people in the Dominican Republic don’t have any jobs. There is a small percentage of the population that take pleasure in wealth but the majority of society are poor. Langston goes further and explains, “The inequality that exist, between the five percent of the population who enjoy wealth, status, and power, the eighty percent who live in abject poverty is perhaps the most important and obvious feature in the Dominican social structure.” There is basically no equality in the Dominican Republic.
Amauris Pineyro, a student at the Bronx Academy of Letters who is of Dominican descent, explains that poverty in the Dominican Republic is increasing rapidly since food is becoming more expensive and there are not enough job opportunities. Another student at the same school who is also of Dominican descent comments “In D.R the poor population is not as fortunate as the one in the United States. For example, they do not get any type of help from the government such as welfare. In a visit over there about three young boys ate the bones I left on my plate because they couldn’t even buy a piece of chicken. I, of course, later bought them an order.”
Poverty is a world wide epidemic, it doesn’t only occur in the Dominican Republic. Every country should have systems like Americans that help the less fortunate with things like rent, food and keeping them safe. This very lucky country, the United States of America, should try and talk to foreign governments to persuade them into helping their poor population.
Who’s Looking Out for the Soldiers?
By Kimisha Bostick, World News Journalist
….This just in! George W. Bush isn’t doing his job as president. What do you do when you turn on the news and you have to listen to the same boring announcements about the same boring politicians, and their ongoing issues? It’s a waste of time and, of course, you do not hesitate to change the channel. But what about the stuff they forget to mention? What about the things that really matter to you?
Granted, it has been a while since this war in Iraq has been going on, and it frustrates dozens of friends and families daily. This Even when…you are able to hear, even listen to, what is currently happening with the war, we don’t hear about the soldiers. What’s happening with them? What about their families who are worried sick at home awaiting the return of their sons and daughters.
Such a thing has had millions of people distraught, even feeling constant anger, towards those in charge of the whole operation. This lack of information has evoked many emotions in many grieving families to the extent where they have formed their own organization of concerned parents. It is called the “Sheehan Effect”. Cindy Sheehan, the woman who started it all. Cindy Lee Miller Sheehan is an American anti-Iraq War activist, whose son, Casey Sheehan, was killed during his service in Iraq. She attracted international attention in August 2005 for her demonstration at a peace camp outside President George W. Bush's Texas ranch.
The Sheehan Effect involves protests against President Bush concerning the war and the outrageous comment he had made not too long ago stating, “Their families can know that we will honor their loved ones' sacrifice by completing the mission." This did not sit well with Sheehan at all or any other fretful parent out there.
….This just in! George W. Bush isn’t doing his job as president. What do you do when you turn on the news and you have to listen to the same boring announcements about the same boring politicians, and their ongoing issues? It’s a waste of time and, of course, you do not hesitate to change the channel. But what about the stuff they forget to mention? What about the things that really matter to you?
Granted, it has been a while since this war in Iraq has been going on, and it frustrates dozens of friends and families daily. This Even when…you are able to hear, even listen to, what is currently happening with the war, we don’t hear about the soldiers. What’s happening with them? What about their families who are worried sick at home awaiting the return of their sons and daughters.
Such a thing has had millions of people distraught, even feeling constant anger, towards those in charge of the whole operation. This lack of information has evoked many emotions in many grieving families to the extent where they have formed their own organization of concerned parents. It is called the “Sheehan Effect”. Cindy Sheehan, the woman who started it all. Cindy Lee Miller Sheehan is an American anti-Iraq War activist, whose son, Casey Sheehan, was killed during his service in Iraq. She attracted international attention in August 2005 for her demonstration at a peace camp outside President George W. Bush's Texas ranch.
The Sheehan Effect involves protests against President Bush concerning the war and the outrageous comment he had made not too long ago stating, “Their families can know that we will honor their loved ones' sacrifice by completing the mission." This did not sit well with Sheehan at all or any other fretful parent out there.
I Have an iPod - I Don’t Need You
By Kelvin Reynoso, Local News Analyst
Have you ever been on the train listening to your favorite jam and some guy who obviously never took singing lessons starts singing La Cucaracha? “It’s pretty annoying having to deal with all these people begging you to put money in their little hats,” states Karline Yong, a daily subway rider. What people don’t realize is that performers don’t pay taxes but only earn twenty through thirty dollars daily.
Many people in the NYC area don’t appreciate when performers tend to beg for money and find it hard to resume daily life especially when it’s not your day and you’re not in the mood. Technically it’s illegal to perform without a license but law enforcers tend not to be too strict on that rule. Although in a poll based on daily subway riders 44% of the people enjoy the fact that many times they have options on what to listen to. Cordell Jacobs’s states, “They do have talents probably more than other artist out there because not all of them do it for money. 66% of the people stated that its very annoying having to deal with this loud noise daily especially if they are having a bad day.
In a recent article written by the Little Views, a web site about MTA performers “The MTA raised the quality of subway entertainment by holding the subway version of the American Idol series.” This shows that there are many different singers located on the subway some whom are appreciated. It’s really up to the commuter to decide on what to listen to if they don’t like subway entertainment, just raise the volume on there iPod.
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Have you ever been on the train listening to your favorite jam and some guy who obviously never took singing lessons starts singing La Cucaracha? “It’s pretty annoying having to deal with all these people begging you to put money in their little hats,” states Karline Yong, a daily subway rider. What people don’t realize is that performers don’t pay taxes but only earn twenty through thirty dollars daily.
Many people in the NYC area don’t appreciate when performers tend to beg for money and find it hard to resume daily life especially when it’s not your day and you’re not in the mood. Technically it’s illegal to perform without a license but law enforcers tend not to be too strict on that rule. Although in a poll based on daily subway riders 44% of the people enjoy the fact that many times they have options on what to listen to. Cordell Jacobs’s states, “They do have talents probably more than other artist out there because not all of them do it for money. 66% of the people stated that its very annoying having to deal with this loud noise daily especially if they are having a bad day.
In a recent article written by the Little Views, a web site about MTA performers “The MTA raised the quality of subway entertainment by holding the subway version of the American Idol series.” This shows that there are many different singers located on the subway some whom are appreciated. It’s really up to the commuter to decide on what to listen to if they don’t like subway entertainment, just raise the volume on there iPod.
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Graffiti is Everlasting
By Malika Hinds, Local News Writer
Do you think graffiti will live on forever? Well graffiti is an art that has been around since the early sixties and is still around today. It is a type of art that makes the artist known for their work. Graffiti is a way to get your “aka” or name around; most times graffiti is so attractive that a person can’t pass with out looking at it. Graffiti can not be banned for good no matter what the government tries to do. In the mid sixties graffiti was well known all around the Bronx, especially on the underground trains like the D and B; the artist will wait until the train has reached the last stop at the train yard and will start spray painting the cars of the train. The artist would try to use other colors to be unique from other spray painters.
The graffiti on the trains made the artist proud of their work. Afterwards, the artist would take pictures of what they had accomplished. Some artists would steal spray cans due to the increase in the prices. Since many store managers felt they should make a profit off of all those buying paint. In the Bronx and all over New York the artist would try to change their style, making their work larger in size or outlining an image or writing, also the. However, graffiti on trains didn’t last long from 1985 and 1989 graffiti started dying due to security on the trains and the MTA taking active efforts to stop graffiti. The security on trains increased due to the artists jumping over fences and some even getting hurt or dying because of the electricity on the tracks. According to Wikipedia “The current era in graffiti is characterized by a majority of graffiti artists moving from subway cars to "street galleries."
The Clean Train Movement started in May, 1989, when New York attempted to remove all of the subway cars found with graffiti on them out of the transit system. Because of this, many graffiti artists had to resort to new ways to express themselves. A lot of controversy arose among the streets debating whether graffiti should be considered an actual form of art” .This all started because graffiti took up so much space that passengers couldn’t see out the window. People were rebellious against graffiti that the MTA spent thousands of dollars to remove the spray paint off the cars but, graffiti wasn’t over, it moved to the buildings and the walls. People started to consider graffiti was art or as a crime due to the government and the laws they made for graffiti.
Graffiti was moved from subways cars but it wasn’t over yet instead it moved to buildings and walls. Even today when people go to the train stations that are under- ground or outside you see graffiti all over the walls and on the signs that tell you the station you have reached. Graffiti is something that people see everyday especially in the Bronx but it is also in movies. Children all over the Bronx and New York are motivated by some form of graffiti even if all they do is drawing it on paper instead of walls or buildings.
Two Steps Too Late
By Brittney Manzano, Local News Writer
How is the MTA doing? During the last six years, the MTA has affected New York City in a big way. Many deaths have occurred especially with the gaps between the trains and the platform. Natalie Smead, who lived in Queens, died at the age of eighteen in Woodside station; she fell through one of the gaps. The gaps in the subway stations have contributed to at least 115 deaths in the last couple of years.
During rush hour, while everyone is trying to get to work and pushing and shoving, no one is paying attention to the gaps. That's how accidents happen-someone falls into the gaps or is injured. The gaps in the subways could also harm parents with strollers because the wheels might get stuck in the gaps and the doors could crush the stroller with the baby in it. So what is the MTA doing to solve this problem?
Over the last couple of years, many citizens filled lawsuits against the MTA for personal injury claims at 42nd Street in Times Square. The platform gaps, there enormous and something has to be done. The New York Transit postponed the work until around the year 2010, which leaves riders to deal with the dangerous gaps. Andrew Albert, a MTA board member stated, "It's a shame that they pushed it back. It's like renovating your house and leaving the entrance the same". It's too late for the people who lost there lives but it's not too late for others to make a difference. Something has to be done before it's too late.
How is the MTA doing? During the last six years, the MTA has affected New York City in a big way. Many deaths have occurred especially with the gaps between the trains and the platform. Natalie Smead, who lived in Queens, died at the age of eighteen in Woodside station; she fell through one of the gaps. The gaps in the subway stations have contributed to at least 115 deaths in the last couple of years.
During rush hour, while everyone is trying to get to work and pushing and shoving, no one is paying attention to the gaps. That's how accidents happen-someone falls into the gaps or is injured. The gaps in the subways could also harm parents with strollers because the wheels might get stuck in the gaps and the doors could crush the stroller with the baby in it. So what is the MTA doing to solve this problem?
Over the last couple of years, many citizens filled lawsuits against the MTA for personal injury claims at 42nd Street in Times Square. The platform gaps, there enormous and something has to be done. The New York Transit postponed the work until around the year 2010, which leaves riders to deal with the dangerous gaps. Andrew Albert, a MTA board member stated, "It's a shame that they pushed it back. It's like renovating your house and leaving the entrance the same". It's too late for the people who lost there lives but it's not too late for others to make a difference. Something has to be done before it's too late.
ISN’T IT TIME FOR JUSTICE?
By Muhammed Sumbundu, Local News Writer
The NYPD is responsible for the protection of the public from any danger and criminals. On the morning of November 25, 2006, the NYPD may be crossed the line again, this time killing an innocent man, Sean Bell, reminding many of the years ago case of Amadou Diallo. Bell was killed just hours before he got married. Bell was shot with his other two friends, Joseph Guzman and Trent Benefield, who went with Bell to a strip club in Queens. Bell was a nephew of a University of Miami basketball coach Frank Haith. As a teenager, he studied acting in Flushing. He was a star pitcher for John Adams High School in Ozone Park but gave up his dreams of basketball and his love for sports when his girlfriend, Nicole Paultre, who he was about to marry, became pregnant.
At the time of the incident Bell was moving from job to job to raise a family. Bell was arrested three times, twice for drug possession and once for arms fire possessions. In all cases he was released on his own. Bell and his two other friends, Guzman and Benefield, went to Kalua to celebrate Bell’s bachelor party. The club has been investigated for months by the NYPD. An undercover officer said, “Guzman had an argument inside the club with a woman and threatened to get a gun”. The undercover officer who first shot and killed Bell said later that hearing the word, “Gun” was the reason they started shooting at Bell’s vehicle in the first place.
When Bell, Guzman and Benefield left the strip club, the five undercover cops followed Bell’s vehicle, approaching with drawn weapons. Another source told Daily News that, “The officers failed to warn Bell before opening their fire…and started firing immediately upon leaving their vehicle”. Bell’s vehicle was shot fifty times. An officer who initiated the gun fire said, “I saw a fourth man in the car, who fled the scene with a weapon”. Some witnesses at the scene claim that it was Jean Nelson. Nelson was possibly presented at bachelor party and witnessed the shooting but denies being in the car or possessing a gun.
The police department never mentioned a fourth man fleeing with a gun immediately after the incident. According to Al Sharpton, in his conversation with witnesses, none of the three men mentioned anything about a gun while leaving the club. Some of the bullets the officers fired hit nearby homes and a subway station. Hundreds of protesters came out the weekend following Bell’s death to protest the amount of force used by the police officers and the protests continued into the following weeks. Some have noted and compared the incident to the past shooting of an unarmed people such as Amadou Diallo, Lisa Colagrossi, and Michael Wilson. Both Commissioner Ray Kelly and Mayor Michael Bloomberg have agreed that the shooting was possibly a violation of the Police Department guidelines. Now Michael Oliver who fired thirty-one times and Gescard Isnora who fired eleven shots are on trial for manslaughter, facing up to twenty-five years behind bars.
The NYPD is responsible for the protection of the public from any danger and criminals. On the morning of November 25, 2006, the NYPD may be crossed the line again, this time killing an innocent man, Sean Bell, reminding many of the years ago case of Amadou Diallo. Bell was killed just hours before he got married. Bell was shot with his other two friends, Joseph Guzman and Trent Benefield, who went with Bell to a strip club in Queens. Bell was a nephew of a University of Miami basketball coach Frank Haith. As a teenager, he studied acting in Flushing. He was a star pitcher for John Adams High School in Ozone Park but gave up his dreams of basketball and his love for sports when his girlfriend, Nicole Paultre, who he was about to marry, became pregnant.
At the time of the incident Bell was moving from job to job to raise a family. Bell was arrested three times, twice for drug possession and once for arms fire possessions. In all cases he was released on his own. Bell and his two other friends, Guzman and Benefield, went to Kalua to celebrate Bell’s bachelor party. The club has been investigated for months by the NYPD. An undercover officer said, “Guzman had an argument inside the club with a woman and threatened to get a gun”. The undercover officer who first shot and killed Bell said later that hearing the word, “Gun” was the reason they started shooting at Bell’s vehicle in the first place.
When Bell, Guzman and Benefield left the strip club, the five undercover cops followed Bell’s vehicle, approaching with drawn weapons. Another source told Daily News that, “The officers failed to warn Bell before opening their fire…and started firing immediately upon leaving their vehicle”. Bell’s vehicle was shot fifty times. An officer who initiated the gun fire said, “I saw a fourth man in the car, who fled the scene with a weapon”. Some witnesses at the scene claim that it was Jean Nelson. Nelson was possibly presented at bachelor party and witnessed the shooting but denies being in the car or possessing a gun.
The police department never mentioned a fourth man fleeing with a gun immediately after the incident. According to Al Sharpton, in his conversation with witnesses, none of the three men mentioned anything about a gun while leaving the club. Some of the bullets the officers fired hit nearby homes and a subway station. Hundreds of protesters came out the weekend following Bell’s death to protest the amount of force used by the police officers and the protests continued into the following weeks. Some have noted and compared the incident to the past shooting of an unarmed people such as Amadou Diallo, Lisa Colagrossi, and Michael Wilson. Both Commissioner Ray Kelly and Mayor Michael Bloomberg have agreed that the shooting was possibly a violation of the Police Department guidelines. Now Michael Oliver who fired thirty-one times and Gescard Isnora who fired eleven shots are on trial for manslaughter, facing up to twenty-five years behind bars.
Celebrities Do Feel Sympathy
By Lorraine Avila, #1 on Celebrity News
It’s a tendency for people who are not as rich and famous as celebrities to point out just the bad qualities Hollywood stars have; they never take the time to actually notice that many of them do help the less fortunate.
At this point it doesn’t even matter if you are on Team Jolie or Team Aniston. Angelina Jolie is one of the most recognized humanitarians of our times. She has, of today, saved three children, Maddox, from Cambodia, Zahara, from Ethiopia, and a Pax, from Vietnam, from disastrous lifestyles.
Not only is Angelina saving lives through adopting children to her clan, but she is also known for donating to children charities around the globe. E! Online states that Angelina Jolie donated more than three million dollars in the year of 2005.
Jolie uses her own resources to others advantages. In 2006, she and Brad Pitt had a baby girl, Shiloh, of their own. Shiloh had the world at her feet last year, all desperately waiting for even a quick glimpse of her. The superficial.com says, “Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie have sold the first pictures of Shiloh to people magazine for a kidney punching $4.1 million, with all the money going to unknown children’s charity.”
Many have pondered why Angelina takes such responsibility to help children who do not have lifestyles anywhere close to luxurious. My guess is that she is trying to make up for her corrupt childhood.
Angelina Jolie isn’t the only one putting her millions to real worth these days.
After the tragic event of September 11th dozens of celebrities including Britney Spears and Jay-Z donated millions of dollars to victim relief programs. Songs were made like, “What’s Going On?” by multiple artists such as Ja Rule, Jennifer Lopez, the Backstreet boys and Mary J. Blige, to give a voice to those who were affected by the day.
Brooklyn raised Sean Combs, ran a “Diddy Runs the City” for the children of New York City. Growing up the same way as thousands of kids in NYC, he felt it was up to him to help out a bit in a place they should feel comfortable, school. On the website of New York it is stated that the mayor of New York announced, “It’s my great pleasure to welcome Sean ‘P.Diddy’ Combs to City Hall to announce this generous $2 million dollar donation to the children of New York City.” I guess the stereotypical thought of rappers wasting money on cars and chains isn’t always true.
On the other hands there are celebrities who come from poorer childhoods and were saved by money and fame like Lindsay Lohan, for example, uses her wealth to buy herself oversized and expensive hand bags. Maybe it’s time for Lohan to reminisce about her “miserable” days of her meager Long Island upbringing.
Hip Hop is Changing
By Assata Sangary, Writer of Teen Lives
Hip Hop today verses hip hop back in the day is totally different. Today rappers are all about money, females, and killing. There only are a few people that are real about hip hop in the game. Rappers these days are rapping about how much money they have and how many females they have been with.
Cordell Jacobs, a classmate of mine at the Bronx Academy of Letters, mentioned that "Hip hop is not as political as it used to be." I personally feel the same way because hip hop back in the day was about equality, slavery, ending racism, and supporting females who were well respected. The girls in videos now don't even have sympathy for their bodies. Now African American women are the girls you see in videos, with rappers all over them. Hennesys Baez, a female at Bronx Academyof Letters, feels that, "Different artists now are degrading to women. 50 Cent and Rich Boy are especially."
However it should be noted that some positive hip hop culture still exists. I say more things have been added to the culture to make us as young ladies look bad. They've just evolved it into new levels of negativity toward the culture. Now you hardly see even one group of teenagers playing double-dutch on the streets because they're inside watching videos that degrade women. You also hardly see rappers that rap about their backgrounds. Most of the rappers today are rapping lies about struggles they have supposedly been through. The truth behind it is that most people are getting into the game by connections.
One of the greatest rappers, Tupac Shakur, who died on September 13,1996 in Las Vegas, had a great impact on me personally. There were things he said that were true and I love his poetry. The depressing news about his death made me feel that everyone needs to try their best while they're on Earth. Shakur was shot so many times people weren't sure if he would survive again, which turned to be false. The shooting on September 13th killed him. He was great to the hip hop game, even though he had some negative things in his videos. There were good messages behind his songs and his poetry.
Some artists can have good messages but still have bad images. Another one of my classmates, Manny Carmona, says that, "Hip Hop was better back in the day then it is today." I totally agree, but there are some rappers that talk about good things. Rappers like Mos Def, Common, and Talib Kweli have positive messages and try to make hip hop look better. However, there's fewer positives messages now than before. Most teenagers are struggling. Many wish to become rappers or to just live the life of rappers for just a while. There are many teenagers that sell drugs, steal, and do everything that's portrayed in music because they don't want to be left out of getting money. These teenagers should try being themselves instead of trying to be something they're not.
Hip Hop today verses hip hop back in the day is totally different. Today rappers are all about money, females, and killing. There only are a few people that are real about hip hop in the game. Rappers these days are rapping about how much money they have and how many females they have been with.
Cordell Jacobs, a classmate of mine at the Bronx Academy of Letters, mentioned that "Hip hop is not as political as it used to be." I personally feel the same way because hip hop back in the day was about equality, slavery, ending racism, and supporting females who were well respected. The girls in videos now don't even have sympathy for their bodies. Now African American women are the girls you see in videos, with rappers all over them. Hennesys Baez, a female at Bronx Academyof Letters, feels that, "Different artists now are degrading to women. 50 Cent and Rich Boy are especially."
However it should be noted that some positive hip hop culture still exists. I say more things have been added to the culture to make us as young ladies look bad. They've just evolved it into new levels of negativity toward the culture. Now you hardly see even one group of teenagers playing double-dutch on the streets because they're inside watching videos that degrade women. You also hardly see rappers that rap about their backgrounds. Most of the rappers today are rapping lies about struggles they have supposedly been through. The truth behind it is that most people are getting into the game by connections.
One of the greatest rappers, Tupac Shakur, who died on September 13,1996 in Las Vegas, had a great impact on me personally. There were things he said that were true and I love his poetry. The depressing news about his death made me feel that everyone needs to try their best while they're on Earth. Shakur was shot so many times people weren't sure if he would survive again, which turned to be false. The shooting on September 13th killed him. He was great to the hip hop game, even though he had some negative things in his videos. There were good messages behind his songs and his poetry.
Some artists can have good messages but still have bad images. Another one of my classmates, Manny Carmona, says that, "Hip Hop was better back in the day then it is today." I totally agree, but there are some rappers that talk about good things. Rappers like Mos Def, Common, and Talib Kweli have positive messages and try to make hip hop look better. However, there's fewer positives messages now than before. Most teenagers are struggling. Many wish to become rappers or to just live the life of rappers for just a while. There are many teenagers that sell drugs, steal, and do everything that's portrayed in music because they don't want to be left out of getting money. These teenagers should try being themselves instead of trying to be something they're not.
Becoming a Mother is Hard Enough…
By Dominique Morrison, Op/Ed Writer
Why should teenage mothers feel left out or unconnected to because they’ve had a child at a young age? Teenage mothers, granted, are young, but they are just as relevant as regular moms. One teenage mom from article “understanding teen mothers says, “Getting pregnant was the price I was willing to pay to feel connected to someone for a few minutes, parenting was the price I was willing to pay to feel connected to someone for eighteen years.” Many people never understand teenage motherhood because they see it as an immediate mistake that will hurt the teen’s life forever. I feel that it should be seen as something that happened whether by accident or not and people should to support the mother be there for there child as they bring a life into the world.
Why should teenage mothers feel left out or unconnected to because they’ve had a child at a young age? Teenage mothers, granted, are young, but they are just as relevant as regular moms. One teenage mom from article “understanding teen mothers says, “Getting pregnant was the price I was willing to pay to feel connected to someone for a few minutes, parenting was the price I was willing to pay to feel connected to someone for eighteen years.” Many people never understand teenage motherhood because they see it as an immediate mistake that will hurt the teen’s life forever. I feel that it should be seen as something that happened whether by accident or not and people should to support the mother be there for there child as they bring a life into the world.
Having a child should be something beautiful, unforgettable and non regrettable. Parents should make it clear to their teen that what they have done can turn out to be something amazing. Some families kick their kids of the house because they feel that they will be an embarrassment to the family. Well I am writing this article to let those parents know that they are not decreasing what they call embarrassment in their life, they are just bringing it. That’s not the way to teach a lesson.
Those kids who get kicked out are not going to be able to live in comfort knowing that their family has banned them. “They are just going to feel that they are worth nothing, which can sometimes lead to drugs or self aborting their unborn child” says Dayna, an experienced teenage mother. Teenagers who range from ages thirteen through eighteen all face problems with their families but should always be treated the same. Nothing should ever be a reason to not love your child the same because she has gotten pregnant. Be there for them because, believe it or not, they need it now more then ever.
Those kids who get kicked out are not going to be able to live in comfort knowing that their family has banned them. “They are just going to feel that they are worth nothing, which can sometimes lead to drugs or self aborting their unborn child” says Dayna, an experienced teenage mother. Teenagers who range from ages thirteen through eighteen all face problems with their families but should always be treated the same. Nothing should ever be a reason to not love your child the same because she has gotten pregnant. Be there for them because, believe it or not, they need it now more then ever.
TV Shows in America
By Jaelle Garcia
American Idol is a show which they air to find talent (singing). American Idol has grown into a laughing and humiliating show of embarrassment. The show airs for people to see what talent they have in the nation though some people take it as a chance to embarrass themselves to get two minutes of fame on TV. This show has various places in the beginning but once found talent it was shot in Los Angeles.
Many TV shows have affected society in many ways. TV shows such as American Idol and I Love New York. These shows have caused many publicity and tension between people and celebrities. Like most popular celebrity Simon Cowell. Simon Cowell is one of the judges on American Idol that has the most opinionated minds in the show today. “Simon Cowell is the funniest, rudest guy on television” said Tiffany Garcia, a young woman interviewed. Simon Cowell is the one of the rudest guys though some people do that to get more ratings and viewers. Like what Maritza Rivera, a young female as well said “The only reason why people watch American Idol is because of the harsh comments and embarrassments people make of themselves, then when the judges judge them on their performance they get mad and want to fight with them because they got denied.”
American Idol has made a hugh impact on the people in society such as seeing how theirs friends and family sometimes embarrass themselves. Though people can’t get mad at the way TV is today because not only American Idol is like that but mainly now all TV shows are like that though “American Idol is the creator and original of embarrassment and competition.”
Many TV shows have affected society in many ways. TV shows such as American Idol and I Love New York. These shows have caused many publicity and tension between people and celebrities. Like most popular celebrity Simon Cowell. Simon Cowell is one of the judges on American Idol that has the most opinionated minds in the show today. “Simon Cowell is the funniest, rudest guy on television” said Tiffany Garcia, a young woman interviewed. Simon Cowell is the one of the rudest guys though some people do that to get more ratings and viewers. Like what Maritza Rivera, a young female as well said “The only reason why people watch American Idol is because of the harsh comments and embarrassments people make of themselves, then when the judges judge them on their performance they get mad and want to fight with them because they got denied.”
American Idol has made a hugh impact on the people in society such as seeing how theirs friends and family sometimes embarrass themselves. Though people can’t get mad at the way TV is today because not only American Idol is like that but mainly now all TV shows are like that though “American Idol is the creator and original of embarrassment and competition.”
THE INTERNET: FRIEND or FOE?
By Andre Craigwell, and Avid User of the Computer
The Internet. It is the most powerful tool of the 21st century. The Internet allows millions of people to connect to each other, whether it’s through email, IM’s (instant messaging), online chat rooms, or online games. It also provides many ways to get information about current events, music, history, etc. About anything and everything can be found on the internet, including love. The internet seems like a really helpful tool right? Some people don’t see it that way.
The Internet can be very entertaining and addictive seeing as there are many ways for people to communicate on it, from chats to online games, online games being a rising trend with all ages, from young children, to teens, and even some adults are joining the gaming world. “Between 75 and 90% of teenagers in the United States use the internet to email, IM, visit chat rooms, and explore other sites on the World Wide Web.” Even though the internet is supposed to provide a way for more people to connect to each other, it is in fact causing our teenagers to become socially unreceptive. Online communities are growing.
More and more people are realizing that computers are depriving teens from a lot of social experience. Teens don’t have to deal with people they don’t like. They can just log off or kick people out of rooms. In life, people don’t have that option. Teens are breaking down more and more because they cant deal with certain people in life, providing that they have a personal life away from the computer. Many teens are spending hours and hours on the computer, and away from social contact, in a physical means. Many kids are becoming desensitized by the fact that they do not have to actually see another person and can just type a message to them and somehow get a feeling from that. The thing is, there Is no tone of voice, no accent, no small drawl to identify a person. In essence, by using the internet, people only go through the basic parts of a relationship. The internet is destroying social life as we know it…and creating a new era of social communication, one that, in actuality, may benefit society in some ways.
The internet may be one of the greatest technological advances ever, but we have to realize that it is a machine, and that it cannot take the place of a warm, loving hug, or the pat on the back by a close friend when you’re down. The internet can be a part of dail
The Internet. It is the most powerful tool of the 21st century. The Internet allows millions of people to connect to each other, whether it’s through email, IM’s (instant messaging), online chat rooms, or online games. It also provides many ways to get information about current events, music, history, etc. About anything and everything can be found on the internet, including love. The internet seems like a really helpful tool right? Some people don’t see it that way.
The Internet can be very entertaining and addictive seeing as there are many ways for people to communicate on it, from chats to online games, online games being a rising trend with all ages, from young children, to teens, and even some adults are joining the gaming world. “Between 75 and 90% of teenagers in the United States use the internet to email, IM, visit chat rooms, and explore other sites on the World Wide Web.” Even though the internet is supposed to provide a way for more people to connect to each other, it is in fact causing our teenagers to become socially unreceptive. Online communities are growing.
More and more people are realizing that computers are depriving teens from a lot of social experience. Teens don’t have to deal with people they don’t like. They can just log off or kick people out of rooms. In life, people don’t have that option. Teens are breaking down more and more because they cant deal with certain people in life, providing that they have a personal life away from the computer. Many teens are spending hours and hours on the computer, and away from social contact, in a physical means. Many kids are becoming desensitized by the fact that they do not have to actually see another person and can just type a message to them and somehow get a feeling from that. The thing is, there Is no tone of voice, no accent, no small drawl to identify a person. In essence, by using the internet, people only go through the basic parts of a relationship. The internet is destroying social life as we know it…and creating a new era of social communication, one that, in actuality, may benefit society in some ways.
The internet may be one of the greatest technological advances ever, but we have to realize that it is a machine, and that it cannot take the place of a warm, loving hug, or the pat on the back by a close friend when you’re down. The internet can be a part of dail
Lloyd Wants “You”
By Phylicia Maner, Arts & Entertainment
The Artist Spotlight
Twenty-one-year-old Lloyd has made a big success with his sophomore album Street Love, which includes his two biggest hits, “You” featuring Lil Wayne and his latest song “Get it Shawty” featuring Young Joc.
When Lloyd first came out with his song in 2003 “Southside” many fans thought that he wouldn’t come out with a second album. According to the singer he states, “The song spread to a lot of secondary markets outside Atlanta,” Lloyd recalled, “And from there I remember everybody kind of calling wanting to work with me and Street Love is really about the best of both worlds –Hip Hop and R&B to create a popular sound”. His latest song, “Get it Shawty” is produced by Usher younger brother, J-Lack. The up tempo number features stirring strings over a brooding bass line. Lloyd states, “I am fantasizing about getting a lady to spend some quality time with. I
In addition to Gotti and Jazze (his producers), Street Love will feature a collaboration with Johnta Austin, Big Reese, and Jasper. So if you fans out there enjoy listening to Lloyd go and get his album, Street Love.
The Artist Spotlight
Twenty-one-year-old Lloyd has made a big success with his sophomore album Street Love, which includes his two biggest hits, “You” featuring Lil Wayne and his latest song “Get it Shawty” featuring Young Joc.
When Lloyd first came out with his song in 2003 “Southside” many fans thought that he wouldn’t come out with a second album. According to the singer he states, “The song spread to a lot of secondary markets outside Atlanta,” Lloyd recalled, “And from there I remember everybody kind of calling wanting to work with me and Street Love is really about the best of both worlds –Hip Hop and R&B to create a popular sound”. His latest song, “Get it Shawty” is produced by Usher younger brother, J-Lack. The up tempo number features stirring strings over a brooding bass line. Lloyd states, “I am fantasizing about getting a lady to spend some quality time with. I
In addition to Gotti and Jazze (his producers), Street Love will feature a collaboration with Johnta Austin, Big Reese, and Jasper. So if you fans out there enjoy listening to Lloyd go and get his album, Street Love.
Teen Fashion: The New Way of Life
By Quanisha Ealey, Entertainment Writer
In today’s society, fashion is the new way to express your identity. Teen fashion is the only way teenagers in society feel good about themselves. But teen fashion also has its major points and it’s downfalls for teenagers. Some of the good things about the new teen fashion are that teens can wear anything that makes them stand out and that gives them a sense of feeling that they are authentic. A few downfalls are that teens may tease one another because they do not dress like everyone or buy the same type of clothing.
In an old article about Teen Oriented Fashion a man name Harris Dienstfrey stated that, “Clothes are a billboard of the self. They express dreams and disguises, rank and status, pride and dismay. Without them we are vulnerable and largely anonymous, with them we are clad in a cloth armor.” This quote best describes how teenagers feel about their clothing in the current day in society.
Many teenagers may feel that clothing can get them where they can be. Some teens may feel the best at times because of their sense of style. But others may feel like it’s the worst day of their life just because of their own personal wardrobe. Being that fashion is held in such an influential position it’s not all because of how teens put the clothes together, it’s the artist that we see. When we see an artist that we look up to, the first thing teenagers really look at is their fashion that they wear. Teen fashion is mostly about looking like a celebrity and feeling like one. The celebrities do not even really understand how their clothing has affected the youth world these days. The most famous celebrities feel that fashion isn’t that serious to teenagers in general. Only a few main Hip Hop and R&B artist really know how the new generation of teenagers feel about fashion like Kanye West, Pharrell, Kelis, Ciara, Jim Jones, and Beyonce just to name a few. In their videos, we see the latest fashions or they talk about in their music, so we want to be like them.
According to a few tenth grade students, they all have their own opinion on fashion. One student name Lorraine Avila, stated that “Fashion started off to identify themselves back in the days now people copy each other styles.” Her quote goes back to what I just stated before. Teenagers just copy what styles they see off the television form their favorite artist or actor/actress. One of the male tenth grade students that I spoke to name Akil Bulls express his own opinion about fashion saying “People want to look different and to have their own style.” Another female tenth grader named Jameisha Barnes felt that fashion is what we have to do for a purpose; she said “Everyone looks up to the teens. You have to look fresh because teens always get criticized in what they wear.” Seeing how each student had a different opinion or similar opinion does this help us as the young generation understand why teen fashion in our society is held in such an influential position? Maybe you can answer that for yourself and the world.
4th Gen Consoles
By Kwadwo Akosah, Arts & Entertainment
With the recent release of the 4th Gen consoles, gamers are wondering what console is worth buying. Gamers want to which of the three consoles is worth their money.
Why are certain consoles targeted for certain audiences? The 4th Gen consoles are no different. The Wii is for those that prefer fun over sound and graphics. The xbox360 is for those that appreciate features, and finally, the PlayStation 3 is for users that prefer graphics because the graphics is powered by a NVIDIA graphics chip known as the Reality Synthesizer or RSX.
The Wii is a small, easily stored console, unlike its bulky competitors. The name might seem randomly spelled, but Wii is pronounced “we.” This name implies that the console is for all to enjoy. With the Wii having features such as virtual console where using Wii points the user is able to buy games for the NES to be stored on the memory stick, from Nintendo president, Satoru Iwata “Wii will break down that wall that separates video game players form every body else.” I give the Wii 5 out of 5.
The Xbox360 is smaller and more stylish than the console before it, the Xbox. Not only is it stylish but it can be customized with a variety face plates to represent your individual style. The 360 has added a new feature to the Xbox live known as Market Place, where users can access a variety of demos, skins and, maps for download. The best feature to the 360 is the Media Center Extender, where videos, music, and pictures can be streamed from the PC network by using Windows Media Center. I give it a 4 ½ out of 5.
The PlayStation 3 the evolution of the PlayStation 2 has 35 times the power of its previous form the PlayStation 2, not only does it have power but it is has a nice graphics due to its NVIDIA graphics chip. The PS3 controller will not differ much form the PS2 controller except it is now more shaped like a boomerang and will feature no rumble, the controllers will also feature blue tooth allowing these controllers to be wireless. The PS3 also allows the PlayStation Portable to connect to the PS3 via Wi-Fi the PSP acts as either an extra controller or a additional screen. The PS3 also allows gamers to watch DVDs, and play PS2 games. I give the PS3 a 4 ½ out of 5.
Love It Your Way
By Jennifer Miranda, Arts & Entertainment
Americans on a daily basis consume fast food products as McDonalds and Burger King. If you take a look around there is a lot of obesity happening mostly because of fast food restaurants. Without knowing what they are consuming, people make the big decision of where they want to eat. Recently a poll was taken to determine which one is preferred. What do you prefer, Burger King or McDonald? A new survey shows that McDonald is preferred by 78%.
Americans on a daily basis consume fast food products as McDonalds and Burger King. If you take a look around there is a lot of obesity happening mostly because of fast food restaurants. Without knowing what they are consuming, people make the big decision of where they want to eat. Recently a poll was taken to determine which one is preferred. What do you prefer, Burger King or McDonald? A new survey shows that McDonald is preferred by 78%.
This question was asked to a classroom of twenty six students and one teacher. 22% of students voted for Burger King but a whopping 78% voted for McDonalds. A few students were undecided for a while. While they were brainstorming most of them would say: "Burger King: I love the fries!!" The students made their decision without knowing anything about the foods, calories, or fats.
A second survey was taken a few days after, but this time the students had a table with facts of a few items in both fast food restaurants that would give them a little bit of knowledge on calories and fats they are consuming with each bit. As you can see on the table out of seven items chosen, McDonalds has less calories and fat for the garden salad, chicken nuggets, and cheeseburger. Burger King is less in calories and fat in french fries, coca-cola, and in the strawberry sundae. The vanilla shake has equal amount of calories and fat in both restaurants.
When the tables were handed out students were shocked at what they saw: "Most of the food in McDonalds is not as high in cholesterol as Burger King," commented Phylicia Maner. Other students agreed but there were some people that wanted to avoid the numbers. They hardly even glanced at the table; "Nothing is better than McDonalds" and "The dollar Menu!" were some of the comments coming out of there mouths. These people choose based on loyalty or taste. But their health is on the line.
The second survey taken showed a slight difference. McDonald remained the winner with 70% of the votes and Burger King ended up with 30%. After asking Ms.Battaglia her preference between Burger King and McDonalds she commented "I pick Burger King, its weird though because I like McDonald better."
When the tables were handed out students were shocked at what they saw: "Most of the food in McDonalds is not as high in cholesterol as Burger King," commented Phylicia Maner. Other students agreed but there were some people that wanted to avoid the numbers. They hardly even glanced at the table; "Nothing is better than McDonalds" and "The dollar Menu!" were some of the comments coming out of there mouths. These people choose based on loyalty or taste. But their health is on the line.
You can be surprised at the preference between two fast food restaurants that have so much in common. If so much thought goes into what to eat or where to eat you might as well look at the facts to make the healthier decision.
Ciara: Her New Look, Music, and Growth…
By Donavon Johnson, 10th Grade Music Writer
We can all honestly say that Ciara is a breakthrough artist. Everyone knew her straight out of Atlanta when she came out with her hit debut CD and single Goodies in September of 2004. When this Grammy award-winning, singer, songwriter, dancer, producer, and actress released her debut CD, it sold 2.6 million copies in the U.S., selling over 125,000 copies in its first week, over three million worldwide, and had produced three top three singles “Goodies”, “1,2 Step”, and “Oh.” Goodies debuted at number three on the Billboard 200. It was certified double platinum by the RIAA in April of 2005. It was number one on the U.S. Billboard Top R&B/ Hip Hop Albums. Her debut album was a big success with its combinations of laid back R&B songs with catchy pop hooks.
After releasing her debut album, she was also featured in different songs like Missy Elliot’s “Lose Control” and Bow Wow’s “Like You”. Ciara was now well known and a relationship between herself and Bow Wow had blossomed into dating. Many people took the relationship differently, some being happy about the relationship while others were jealous or didn’t like to see them together, but after a year it ended. Some of her songs on her new CD Ciara: The Evolution for example, “So Hard” and “My Love” is based on events that occurred and feelings she had during and after the relationship.
In December of 2006, Ciara released her second album Ciara: The Evolution. Coming back into music scene, Ciara had a whole new look, sound, and moves. She released three singles, “Promise”, “Like A Boy” and a official remix to “Promise” featuring R&B singer R.Kelly. “…When Goodies came out, people labeled me the Princess of Crunk-N-B, but that was just one song, one sound,” Ciara says in an interview with Rolling Stone. “…For this album, I took my inspiration from many different influences and the sounds really reflects that.” This album is composed of Miami Bass, Atlanta Crunk, ballads, and Old School songs. Her new album demonstrates her growth as a singer, songwriter, producer, and performer after two years in the music business. “…The world loves to dance, so I wanted to give them music to dance to,” she says. “But at the same time, the message is so much stronger this time around; I’m taking people into my world and letting them see more of who I truly am.”
Ciara: The Evolution debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and the Billboard Top R&B/ Hip Hop Albums selling 213,000 more copies than her debut CD. The album was certified platinum by the RIAA in January of 2007. Throughout this album there has been an evolution of dance, an evolution of fashion, an evolution of music, but most of all, an evolution of Ciara. “…The past few years of my life have truly been a journey; so many things about me have changed. My faith is stronger, I’m much more confident, my jeans even fit a little different. A lot of life lessons learned but no regrets because I know everything has helped me to be the woman I am today…” Ciara is now a well known R&B superstar and success and happiness is in her way and no one is going to stop her from getting it and getting to where she needs to be. She’s recently been on the cover of Vibe, King, and GIANT. She’s a true star in the spotlight and is popular, hated on, and on top of her game…
We can all honestly say that Ciara is a breakthrough artist. Everyone knew her straight out of Atlanta when she came out with her hit debut CD and single Goodies in September of 2004. When this Grammy award-winning, singer, songwriter, dancer, producer, and actress released her debut CD, it sold 2.6 million copies in the U.S., selling over 125,000 copies in its first week, over three million worldwide, and had produced three top three singles “Goodies”, “1,2 Step”, and “Oh.” Goodies debuted at number three on the Billboard 200. It was certified double platinum by the RIAA in April of 2005. It was number one on the U.S. Billboard Top R&B/ Hip Hop Albums. Her debut album was a big success with its combinations of laid back R&B songs with catchy pop hooks.
After releasing her debut album, she was also featured in different songs like Missy Elliot’s “Lose Control” and Bow Wow’s “Like You”. Ciara was now well known and a relationship between herself and Bow Wow had blossomed into dating. Many people took the relationship differently, some being happy about the relationship while others were jealous or didn’t like to see them together, but after a year it ended. Some of her songs on her new CD Ciara: The Evolution for example, “So Hard” and “My Love” is based on events that occurred and feelings she had during and after the relationship.
In December of 2006, Ciara released her second album Ciara: The Evolution. Coming back into music scene, Ciara had a whole new look, sound, and moves. She released three singles, “Promise”, “Like A Boy” and a official remix to “Promise” featuring R&B singer R.Kelly. “…When Goodies came out, people labeled me the Princess of Crunk-N-B, but that was just one song, one sound,” Ciara says in an interview with Rolling Stone. “…For this album, I took my inspiration from many different influences and the sounds really reflects that.” This album is composed of Miami Bass, Atlanta Crunk, ballads, and Old School songs. Her new album demonstrates her growth as a singer, songwriter, producer, and performer after two years in the music business. “…The world loves to dance, so I wanted to give them music to dance to,” she says. “But at the same time, the message is so much stronger this time around; I’m taking people into my world and letting them see more of who I truly am.”
Ciara: The Evolution debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and the Billboard Top R&B/ Hip Hop Albums selling 213,000 more copies than her debut CD. The album was certified platinum by the RIAA in January of 2007. Throughout this album there has been an evolution of dance, an evolution of fashion, an evolution of music, but most of all, an evolution of Ciara. “…The past few years of my life have truly been a journey; so many things about me have changed. My faith is stronger, I’m much more confident, my jeans even fit a little different. A lot of life lessons learned but no regrets because I know everything has helped me to be the woman I am today…” Ciara is now a well known R&B superstar and success and happiness is in her way and no one is going to stop her from getting it and getting to where she needs to be. She’s recently been on the cover of Vibe, King, and GIANT. She’s a true star in the spotlight and is popular, hated on, and on top of her game…
Sampling and Its Effect On Hip-Hop
By Cordell Jacobs, Music Analyst
What's your favorite song? With all of the new records coming out and the quickness with which they're replaced on the radio, it's hard to choose one as your favorite. There is no doubt that in the past few years there has been a flood of new artists that entered the rap industry. Whether it's the "Hyphy" movement of San Francisco or the Chopped n' Screwed sound of Houston, hip hop as a culture has become more universal and diverse. But there is one thing that most songs do have in common: sampling. In the 70's, disco and funk songs were sampled to create a new genre of music. Beats would be created using the "break" (a section of the song that's separate from the main track) of a song. This helped give birth to what we have now, DJ's and Emcees, but just how much has sampling effected this genre of music?
Some people see sampling as a tool, something that helps their music more than hurting it. Legendary producer RZA of the Wu-Tang Clan states "A lot of people still don't recognize the sampler as a musical instrument. I can see why. Alot of rap hits over the years used the sampler more like a Xerox machine. If you take four whole bars that are identifiable, you're just biting . But I've always been into using the sampler more like a painter's palette than a Xerox." Other artists agree that sampling is more of an art form than an easy way to copy work. Hip Hop group PM Dawn says that "Sampling artistry is a very misunderstood form of music. A lot of people think sampling is thievery but it can take more time to find the right sample than to make up a riff." As much as artists may think of sampling as useful, there is a long history of controversy arising because of it.
One of the most well known legal issues over sampling was between Vanilla Ice and his use of the Queen song "Under Pressure". His song "Ice Ice Baby" was almost an exact replica of the Queen/David Bowie hit. "Ice Ice Baby" only had one different note from the original song which left him lawsuit free.
Though not legally dealt with, other artists have gotten bad publicity because of their song samples. Sixteen-year-old rapper Jibbs has been criticized by the source for his song "chain hang low" in where it was called "minstrel show rap" because the chorus is taken from the minstrel song "zip coon." Jibbs claims that he was unaware of the songs history but the New York Times says "In the 19th century it was a minstrel mainstay known, depending on the lyrics, as "Zip Coon" or "Turkey in the Straw." […] And now, thanks to the St. Louis rapper Jibbs, the old song provides the basis for a new hip-hop hit, "Chain Hang Low." If Jibbs wasn't aware of this, you have to assume the TIs at Geffen were. Indeed, I doubt this was a coincidence at all."
Though not legally dealt with, other artists have gotten bad publicity because of their song samples. Sixteen-year-old rapper Jibbs has been criticized by the source for his song "chain hang low" in where it was called "minstrel show rap" because the chorus is taken from the minstrel song "zip coon." Jibbs claims that he was unaware of the songs history but the New York Times says "In the 19th century it was a minstrel mainstay known, depending on the lyrics, as "Zip Coon" or "Turkey in the Straw." […] And now, thanks to the St. Louis rapper Jibbs, the old song provides the basis for a new hip-hop hit, "Chain Hang Low." If Jibbs wasn't aware of this, you have to assume the TIs at Geffen were. Indeed, I doubt this was a coincidence at all."
Music sampling has come a long way from the 70's. Its no longer just a way to take pieces from other songs, its somewhat become a part of hip hop as a culture, taking bits and pieces of other things and assimilating it into itself. Dj Shadow says, "Cutting and pasting is the essence of what hip-hop culture is all about for me. It's about drawing from what's around you, and subverting it and decontextualizing it." So has sampling created new doorways for hip hop artists out now? Or has it lowered the amount of creativity needed to make music? As for now only the fans can be the judge.
So has sampling created new doorways for hip hop artists out now? Or has it lowered the amount of creativity needed to make music? As for now only the fans can be the judge.
There's an experience worse than blindness--It's the certainty that your vision is perfect yet there's no world left for you to see.
Is it Courtesy or Fame?
By Heidy Palacios, Music Writer
Throughout the years, music artists have generously helped people that are victims, financially unfortunate, and don't have the things they wish they had. Other artists contribute by giving donations to victims of Hurricane Katrina. Artists such as P.Diddy, Jay-Z, and Linkin Park have donated almost $ 1 million to hurricane Katrina. Other artist such as Mariah Carey, Christina Aguilera, and many more have performed in concerts to raise money. Artists like P. Diddy and Jay-Z really surprised news when they donated $ 1 million to the American Red Cross. Other artists such as Kanye West, Mariah Carey, Cameron Diaz, and many more tried to raise money for the disaster in New Orleans by supporting a telethon.
Do these artists do this to actually help unfortunate victims or do they want the attention from news media? Others have questioned themselves on why the artist who have stated that they grew up in New Orleans have not contributed at all after the tragedy. Byron Crawford, who wrote an editorial about the rappers who contributed to Hurricane Katrina stated that, "Of course there are some rappers who were directly affected by the hurricane...but do artists only contribute every time there is a tragedy..." The rappers he mentioned in his article wore Chopper from Making the Band 2 and rapper Master P who claimed to have lost a lot of homes during the hurricane.
But let's ask ourselves what he really lost. Master P is one of many artists who claims to have lost a lot but yet does nothing to help around the community he grew up in. As Crawford stated in his article, "Master P has claimed to lost his homes (all fourteen of them)...not including Lil' Romeo's house...but where was he when it came to donate money and supporting the victims that had the same problems as he did?
Throughout the years there have been many crisis in the world and many times people have complain on the fact that nobody cares. Artists have been generous enough to dedicate time to donate money to those who really need it, but to others that's still not enough. People don't realize the fact that many artists don't only contribute when there's a tragedy, it's just the only time its being captured by news media. There have been programs, hospitals, and schools where artist such as Ludacris have donated money to without having to show his pictures in newspapers. Is it really fame? There's a question waiting to be answered.
Does Billboard Have It Right?
By Henessys Baez, Music Guru
Even though we all know that when it comes to music, Billboard has all the facts, we can offer an opinion. Have you ever wondered why your favorite artist, songs, and albums never make the top 10 or even 100 of Billboard? Do they really have it right?
Even though we all know that when it comes to music, Billboard has all the facts, we can offer an opinion. Have you ever wondered why your favorite artist, songs, and albums never make the top 10 or even 100 of Billboard? Do they really have it right?
NY people don’t agree with what’s on the top charts. Now, the results are in after taking a poll asking about eighty teenagers in the United States what song they would prefer to listen to on the radio. There seems to be a big difference in who’s on top of our charts. The real statistic versus a poll taken by teenager in America!
Billboard Top 10 Radio Airplays
1.) Mims-“This is Why I’m Hot”
2.) Lloyd-“You”
3.) Robin Thicke-“Lost Without U”
4.) Nelly Furtado-“Say It Right”
5.) Akon-“Don’t Matter”
6.) Omarion-“Ice Box”
7.) Justin Timberlake-“What Goes Around…Comes Around”
8.) Ludacris-“Runaway Love”
9.) Daughtrey-“It’s Not Over”
10.) Beyonce-“Irreplaceable”
What’s Hot and What’s Not
1.) Pretty Ricky-“On the Hotline”
2.) Ciara-“Like a Boy”
3.) Fall out Boy-“This Ain’t a Scene it’s an Arms Race”
4.) Akon-“Don’t Matter”
5.) Gym Class Heroes- “Cupid’s Choke Hold”
6.) Mims-“This is Why I’m Hot”
7.) Chris Brown-“Poppin”
8.) Diddy-“Last Night”
9.) Justin Timberlake-“What Goes Around…Comes Around”
10.) Omarion-“Ice Box”
Hmmm…this is a big difference. Annette Cedeno a young teen obsessed with music stated, “The reason that there is a big difference in both charts is because more and more people are listening to hip-hop and urban music.” In my opinion the reason that there is a difference in both charts is because teenagers vote for the songs that are hot right now in their opinion rather then Billboard that have the top 10 songs based on record sales. In the end Billboard has all the right statistics but their
Wisin and Yandel: Reggaetons Saviors
By Leslie Garcia, Music Staff Writer
Why have Wisin and Yandel became so famous? Wisin and Yandel became well known due to their effort and the sales of their CD’S. They sold 65,000 copies of their record and have written many songs and won many awards. In 1998, Wisin and Yandel two talents from Cayey, Puerto Rico entered the rap and reggae genres. These men are married and have respective wives, Yomaira Ortiz and Edneris Espada.
Wisin yYandel sold 2 million copies and know Daddy Yankee has competition with all there work and hard effort they had become millionaires but the thing is that they are working on their new production coming up soon in August 2007 the album is going to be called el duo dinamico they mentioned that Shakira and Black Eyed Peas are going to be include in their album.
According to a radio station “Wisin y Yandel hit position number one in Latin rhythm and Tropical list in billboard with a song named Pam Pam. Wisin y Yandel are celebrating like never before because there album is still on the first place and they had sold 700,000 copies.” This was like a surprise to them because they were in the first place in Latin rhythm and tropical list of billboards and they celebrated like never before.
According to the radio station Wisin yYandel are going to Rome and are going to be with famous artist like Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony they are going to sing the song of “one day” celebrating peace day Wisin y Yandel said “We are very proud of being part of this great celebration.” Sean Paul Lopez, Anthony, Wisin y Yandel , Chris Brown and so on are going to record a song during the event.
According to a fan of Wisin y Yandel he says “Wisin y Yandel didn’t get to win the Grammy they were hoping for, instead, the rapper Calle 13 took the award. But Wisin y Yandel has lots of opportunities to make more music and prove to everybody out there that they are great reggaeton artist.” This is true if they work harder for their next album they could win a Latin awards next time.
In the world you need to work a lot and put effort to your work to reach to the top and become known like Wisin y Yandel who put all their effort in their songs and also their personal feelings into the songs and connect to other people that have experience this situations in their lives and also try to make people like the music they do.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better
By Jameisha Barnes, Analyst for Women’s Sports
Has PSAL really been acknowledging the girls’ high school basketball team like they really should have or have they been pushing them away from the spotlight?
During the season of 2006 the female basketball teams have been pulling weight all through out the Bronx. They have been making their mark in the city and letting it be known the girl teams are just as good as the boys. Some of the most known players are Tatiyian McMorris, who attends Kennedy High school, and Erica Morrow, who attends Murry Bergtraum. These two players are the talk of the whole education system and they are becoming well known.
Tatiyian McMorris is a senior and point guard in her school and has brought her team up from nowhere. McMorris has been leading her basketball team with an average of 198 points in all, forty- five mid-ranged shots, twenty-nine three pointers, forty-eight rebounds, and eighty assists all on her own. This is a big accomplishment for anyone, but especially for a female. With her playing this year she has been offered to go to many colleges and scholarships to play ball. You might think this is something you would want to be recognized for, and something PSAL would acknowledge, and they have. McMorris has been able to bring her team to the PSAL championship playoffs, which took place Sunday afternoon, March 18th in Madison Square Garden. But even through McMorris is a good player she seemed to be no match for Erica Morrow.
Erica Morrow has been a face of the media ever since March 12, 2007 when she played against an all girls private school. Like McMorris, Morrow is also a senior and has been considered by many colleges to be a part of their basketball team as well. During this season Morrow has been able to get a total of 290 points a game, sixty-five mid-ranged, thirty-eight three points, and sixty-nine assists. This is also extremely impressive. When Morrow and McMorris faced off on Sunday Morrow showed McMorris how determined and focused she is when it comes to her game of basketball.
These two high school females showed that when you put effort into the things you like and can do well you accomplish a lot. When you do this people began to recognize you for the talents that you have and for the females, it shows that, they should be acknowledged as the boys in the PSAL league
The Year Behind the Champs
By Akil Bulls
During the 2006 season the Indianapolis Colts had many injuries they finished the season with twelve and four record. They only loss four out of the last seven games of the season. One of them being the embarrassing forty to seventeen point loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
During the season the colts defensive were not playing their hardest but it was ignited during the playoffs. I asked a sports enthusiasts Kelvin Reynoso what he thought about the Colts defense during the playoffs. He says that “It shocked the world because the colts are mainly an offensive team.” Another enthusiast Cordell Jacobs agrees “I was also very surprised I could not believe it.” Their defense especially their safety Bob Saunders helped them win their games against Kansas City and Baltimore. After that the Colts were to face there nemesis, The New England Patriots. Down by twenty one to three in the late second quarter the colts got it together and won thirty eight – thirty four. Marlin Jackson sealed the victory with a last minute interception.
They were not done yet they still had to beat the Bears at the super bowl to become the champs. It was a nasty rainy day in Miami but the Colts did not let that affect them. They dominated with running back Dominic Rhodes and Joseph Addai combining for 290 rushing yards. Quarter back Peyton Manning took the cake; he completed twenty five of thirty eight passes for 247 yards and a touchdown. That made for a convincing twenty to seventeen point victory in Miami. Manning and the colts led to victory and the titles. Manning was crowned M.V.P for the game.
The Rising Legend of Dirk Nowitzki
By Ricardo Peguero, Player Profile Writer
German-born Dirk Nowitzki was an outstanding junior player who applied for the NBA draft in 1998, where he was chosen by the Milwaukee Bucks, then traded to the Dallas Mavericks, who he plays for now. He was traded to the Mavericks in the beginning of his career and didn’t get to play for the Bucks. He is now on the top, having recently been named the best international player.
Dirk is a seven-foot-tall forward who is different from most of the players his height because, unlike other seven-footer’s, he can lead the break and drop the three-pointer. He is known for his fade away shot where he posts up on a player and then fades way and makes the shot, which is hard to stop since he is so tall. Most of the forwards aren’t known for shooting. They’re known for driving in the ball. Thats what makes Dirk Nowitzki so good.
Dwayne Wade, a shooting guard from the Miami Heat, said, “The U.S will have to throw platoons of defenders at Nowitzki.” Nowitzki plays for the Germans in the Olympics and the U.S team said he is one of the hardest players to guard from the NBA who plays in a international team.
In Dirk’s rookie year, he was only playing twenty minutes per game. The coaches then started noticing what a great player Dirk. Each season, his minutes per game started increasing. His best season of his career was last season, the 2005-2006 season. His 2005-2006 season was good because he averaged twenty seven points per game and took his team to the NBA championships where they lost to the Miami Heat. He is a team player and is the captain of the team. Dirk has said, “I think we always battle back.” Meaning they never give up and always try. He always tells his teammates to keep working hard when they are losing, and for that they admire his leadership. The Mavericks have the best record in the NBA and are the team to beat this season.
Before the NBA, Dirk served a mandatory service in the German military for one year. He served September 1, 1997 to June 30, 1998. His dad was a handball player and his mother started the German women’s National Basketball team. He then went on to the NBA starting his legendary career. From his simple upbringing to his legacy on todays court, Dirk Nowitzki has the potential to be in the Hall of Fame.
Western Rivalries
By Amauris Pineyro, Sports Writer of America
The NBA playoffs are coming. Many teams are making their last push to make it into the top eight of their conference.
Two teams that have comfortably made it to the playoffs in the Western Conference are the Phoenix Suns and the Dallas Mavericks, who not only have the best record in their conference but in the league. Dallas has the best record of 52-9 and Phoenix has a record of 48-14. These two teams are becoming rivals in the Western Conference because they have been competing for the number one spot in their conference all year. Both teams have many valuable “star” players, but the two players that are making history are Dirk Nowitzki from the Mavericks and Steve Nash from the Suns.
Dirk Nowitzki has averaged 25.1 points a game, while Steve Nash has averaged 19.2 points a game; these two players are MVP candidates. Nowitzki is the first candidate, Nash is second, and others follow behind them. So far this season, Nowitzki has scored 1,557 points in sixty-two games and Nash has scored 1,112 points in fifty-eight games.
The two teams are not only rivaling to be first in the West Conference, but are two good friends who are now ex-team mates fighting for the MVP. Jerry Brown states in the Tribune, “In January, Phoenix was unbeatable, Nash was headed for a third straight MVP, and the Suns were the chic pick to win a championship. Since then, the Mavericks have pulled away in the West, and Dirk Nowitzki has replaced his best friend as MVP pole sitter while his team has established itself as the team to beat.” Steve Nash and Dirk Nowitzki used to be teammates on the Mavericks until Nash was traded to the Suns. Nowitzki and Nash are now in a fight to be the best players and lead their teams to victory.
This year the playoffs will be more intense and should be something to look forward to.
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