TEEN CHANNELS

Teen Takeover The Hottest Stars

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 15:15:00 +0000

Teen Takeover The Hottest Stars

MILEY CYRUS

Age: 16

The undisputed teen queen – estimated to be worth $1 billion by the time she turns 20 – has another season of her star-making Disney hit Hannah Montana on the way and is branching out with a new non-Hannah movie deal. "Madonna always reinvents herself, and that's what I want to do," says Cyrus, who broke records with this summer's Hannah Montana & Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds concert movie.

TAYLOR SWIFT

Age: 18

Turning 18 last December was good to the country star, who became the youngest person ever to write and record a chart-topping country song. "I wanted a No. 1 record, and I got that," says the double-platinum "Our Song" singer. Swift, who's been linked to Joe Jonas of the Jonas Brothers, has a simple plan for her career: "I just want to be honest and tell my stories," she told "Redbook.

SELENA GOMEZ

Age: 16

The Wizards of Waverly Place star has been called the ""Next Miley Cyrus." And the Disney Channel actress – who's rumored to be dating Cyrus's ex, Nick Jonas – is adding recording artist to her resume with her in-the-works debut album. "It's something that I've been wanting to do for a long, long time," she says.

JORDIN SPARKS

Age: 18

The youngest-ever winner of American Idol, Sparks scored a Top 10 hit this year (for her duet with Chris Brown, "No Air") and performed for millions when she sang "The Star-Spangled Banner" at the Super Bowl. And she's not afraid to take a stand: At the MTV Video Music Awards in September, the former plus-size model spoke out against British comedian Russell Brand's jokes about purity rings.

DEMI LOVATO

Age: 16

After starring with her pals the Jonas Brothers in Camp Rock and opening for them on their Burning Up tour, Lovato – whose profile was raised even higher when Miley Cyrus and friend Mandy Jiroux mocked her and BFF Selena Gomez on YouTube – has stepped out on her own. She released a debut pop-rock album, Don't Forget, and has her own Disney show, Sonny with a Chance, debuting next year.

DAVID ARCHULETA

Age: 17

Though he was the runner-up to American Idol season 7 winner David Cook, the quiet teen with the big voice has a rabid fan base – dubbing themselves "Archies." "It's pretty cool," says the singer, who recently released his self-titled debut album and first single, "Crush"". "People put the time and effort into making signs for you with your name and pictures on it! I do appreciate it."

HAYLEY WILLIAMS

Age: 19

The flame-haired, pint-sized teen kicked off her year at the Grammy Awards, where her band Paramore was nominated for best new artist. While their album, Riot! was certified platinum, the group set gossip blogs in motion after they canceled a tour due to "personal issues" – rumored to be frustration on the increased focus on Williams. But like No Doubt, who famously dealt with a beloved, iconic frontwoman before them, Paramore rebounded and began work on a new album, due next year.

SHENAE GRIMES

Age: 19

Grimes went from cult hero on Degrassi: The Next Generation to the halls of West Bev High as good girl Annie Wilson on the new 90210. "It's not as amazingly cheesy as the old one," the Canadian actress says of the remake, which has given her her first high-profile role. "It's so real. The issues are going to hit harder and closer to home."

MIRANDA COSGROVE

Age: 15

She successfully followed up her role in the Drake & Josh movies with iCarly, the breakout Nickelodeon show where she plays accidental Web star Carly Shay. Now the actress is ready to show off her musical chops: After singing on the successful iCarly soundtrack album, which debuted at No. 28 on Billboard's 200 Albums chart, Cosgrove began work on her solo disc, due next year.

JONAS BROTHERS

Ages: Nick, 16, and Joe, 19 (with Kevin, 21)

The threesome sure packed a lot into 365 days: They won six Teen Choice Awards, starred in the wildly successful Disney Channel movie Camp Rock, had a No. 1 album (A Little Bit Longer) and broke iTunes records as the first band to sell more than 100,000 downloads of three consecutive singles – and that's just the start of Jonas Mania. The platinum-selling band has a new TV series, J.O.N.A.S., a Disney Channel reality show and a 3-D concert movie (following this year's sold-out Burnin' Up tour) hitting in 2009.

Emma Watson Said I'd Go Naked

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 18:21:00 +0000

Emma Watson Said I'd Go Naked

Emma Watson "Hermione" sat down with The Times and told them she's okay to bare all in the name of her craft.

The 18-year-old Chanel model and "Harry Potter" star talked about making the transition from child star to grown-up actress.

"I'm at a strange age... I'm not a woman yet, but I'm not a girl any more. [Film companies] say, 'Oh, in a couple of years you'll be perfect for this.' I'll be like, yeah, but I want to be studying English then, so it's going to be quite tough to choose between the two...

"I have enough to hold me together without fame," she says. "I have a really supportive family and a full life away from Harry Potter. It's unlikely that I'll be part of anything this big ever again, so I need to deal with that. I'm not going to take a job just because, shit, I'm not doing anything else." She still loves acting, naturally -- she would even, steady chaps, go nude. "Yes," she says. "For Bernardo Bertolucci. It . . . depends. I'm not getting my kit off any time soon, but it is part of my job."

Top TV Shows for Teen in Fall 2008

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 10:44:00 +0000

Top TV Shows for Teen in Fall 2008

Gossip Girl

I'm certainly seeing a new side of Serena van der Woodsen this season, hmmmm? She was all sweetness and light when she was dating Dan Humphrey, but now that they've called it quits, Serena seems to be turning into the snobby, backstabbing spoiled rich kid she was reputed to be before she hooked up with Dan. In fact, I'm feeling sorry for her supposed BFF Blair, who certainly can cook up a wicked plot of her own, but does show loyalty to Serena when Serena isn't sleeping with her boyfriend or stealing the spotlight at Blair's mom's fashion show. I'm also loving every minute of Chuck Bass screen time this season (for us, he's hands down the most interesting character on the show), and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that he and Blair will once again return to the love aspect of their love-hate relationship. Also on my wish list: More storyline for Nate and Serena's bro, Eric, while I'm hearing Serena is about to get a new boyfriend. Sorry, Dan.

Smallville

Sure, Lex and Lana aren't regulars this season, but hottie hero Clark Kent (Tom Welling) is still in action, and he's started his journalism career with a job at The Daily Planet. There's also the return of Oliver Queen, whose alter ego is Green Arrow (one of Superman's Justice League cohorts), and, at last, some romance for Chloe, who's spent so many years crushin' on her best – but platonic – buddy Clark. In fact, I hear there may be a wedding for Chloe in November, and while Clark will be busy trying to keep his Superman identity under wraps, he also starts feeling all romantic 'n things about his Planet co-worker Lois. Well, until Lana makes a surprise return …

The Real World/Road Rules Challenge: The Island: Hollywood

We all can probably agree that it may be time for these former Real World-ers and Road Rules-ers to grow up and get real jobs. But, that certainly wouldn't be as fun to watch, and this season of the RW/RR Challenge has definitely been fun. Former cast members – including some you love and some you love to hate – are stranded on a "deserted" island this time around, meaning none of the fancy, tricked out beach houses they've lived in during past seasons. In fact, even their supply of food is rationed, which makes for some cranky reality stars. The goal for the season: to win challenges that provide the winners with keys, one of which will unlock a buried treasure that houses a cool $300,000 prize. Yeah, that might be worth a few weeks of roughing it on an island and listening to "Johnny Bananas" alternately scream at and try to hook up with all the females. Or maybe not …

One Tree Hill

I thought it would be a little cheesy when the show employed its now-famous plot of jumping five years into the future, but I have to hand it to the OTH producers: It was a genius move! It was a great way to refresh the show and get us interested in the characters again … crazy nanny Carrie! Nathan's mom's hooking up with Skillz! Lucas and Peyton are FINALLY getting married! I'm still bumming about the death of a certain high school basketball player – which I won't spoil here in case you're still catching up with the new season – though I hear he'll be making some sort of appearance later in the season (as a ghost maybe?). Elsewhere, though Peyton and Lucas have set the date, all may not yet be resolved with Lucas' ex-fiance, and rumor has it that Brooke might finally find a love of her own, as well as a thriving new business.

New Beverly Hills 90210

Is anyone loving this new 90210 as much as they loved the original Beverly Hills 90210? I'll confess, I'm still longing for the days when Brandon Walsh helped Nate sling burgers at The Peach Pit. Still, this remake is a fun, soapy entry into The CW's line-up, and Tristan Wilds as Wilson family member Dixon is, IOHO, one of the yummiest guys – and best actors – on TV right now. The drama's good, too – Silver's sad storyline with her alcoholic mom, Naomi's heartbreak at finding out that her boyfriend was cheating on her just before finding out her dad was cheating on her mom … those characters could easily be one-dimensional, but like with Kelly and Dylan on the original series, Silver and Naomi manage to be sympathetic, even when they're acting like spoiled brats. I also love seeing the aforementioned Kelly and her old pal/rival Brenda mixing it up with the current West Beverly students, and another blast from the past – a certain Mr. Brandon Walsh – will also be returning to his old zip code soon.

Privileged

Like Gossip Girl, Privileged is also based on a young adult novel, in this case author Zoey Dean's How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls. The charming story revolves around recent Yale grad Megan, who dreams of a prestigious career in journalism, but has so far been toiling away at a tabloid. One day, she gets fired from her job and serendipitously meets make-up queen Laurel Limoges, who hires Megan to be a live-in tutor to Laurel's bratty teen granddaughters Rose and Sage. The girls prove to be quite a challenge – they're not making Megan's job easy, though it's clear she's going to win them over eventually. Besides, in the meantime, Megan has some killer job perks, like a fab private room, a hot car and a chef to whip up her fave foods. There are also plenty of gorgeous men in her 'hood, not to mention her yummy best friend Charlie, who's more than just a little head over heels in love with her.

Chuck

Chuck Bartowski, our favorite TV nerd. Actually, don't let the nerd tag fool ya … Chuck, as played by all-kinds-of-yummy actor Zachary Levi, is a nerd, but a very adorkable nerd. In fact, he's the leader of the Nerd Herd, the Geek Squad-ish computer experts who work at the fictitious Buy More superstore. But, through a fluke that later turned out to not be an accident at all, Chuck's big brain was filled with a computer download of the U.S. government's top secret spy info, meaning Chuck had to be recruited as an undercover spy himself. That has led to some dangerous – and hilarious – missions for the fake 007, as well as a crush on his beautiful spy handler, Sarah. He's also got a nerdy sidekick/BFF, Morgan, who's good for more than a few laughs; some quirky Buy More co-workers; and a sweet sister who's engaged to a doctor who's so smart, handsome and nice that the gang affectionately refers to him as Captain Awesome.

Lincoln Heights

This under-the-radar family drama has almost made us forget how sad we were that 7th Heaven left the airwaves. Lincoln follows the Sutton family, led by dad Eddie, who move into a rough neighborhood – where Eddie grew up as a child – so that policeman Eddie can try to make it a better place. There are problems along the way – race riots, bullies picking on the Sutton kids, mom Jen's problems and work … and much of the show also revolves around the teen romance of Eddie's daughter Cassie and her boyfriend Charles. The duo has gone through many dramatic trials – her father's disapproval of them dating, Charles' ex-girlfriend returning, a break-up – and this season they're taking their relationship to a whole new level, which leads to a pregnancy scare!

Greek

Are we still hoping for a Casey/Cappie reunion? Of course, but in the meantime, Greek continues to be one of the most clever, funny and heartfelt dramedies on TV. This season, as the Cyprus-Rhodes University crew gets older, they also start to deal with more grown-up problems, like Casey's new boyfriend Max, whose last girlfriend died. Cappie's still together with Casey's sorority sister (and rival) Rebecca, though I'm hearing rumors that the two are headed for splitsville. And since Casey's pairing with Max seems doomed, too, maybe that Casey/Cappie reunion isn't as far off as we thought. I also hear there's an upcoming episode where Casey's bro Rusty will have a little flirtation with Casey's BFF Ashleigh, while Casey's ex, Evan, will continue to be a rat, Rusty will be shocked when his ex returns and Casey and Ashleigh do a little snooping in Frannie's room and find out some very interesting – and useful – info. And all that's just in the next few episodes! No wonder I love this show so much. Oh, yeah, Cappie and those other hot cast members don't hurt.

Fringe

Four words: Cutie pie Joshua Jackson. Need we say more? Oh, okay. This latest drama from Felicity/Alias/Lost creator J.J. Abrams is a sci-fi-ish/conspiracy drama that stars the former Pacey Witter as Peter (the son of a famous, genius scientist) who, along with his dad and the FBI, is investigating a series of strange occurrences around the world that all fall under the umbrella of "fringe science," i.e. telepathy, levitation, invisibility, reanimation, etc. Peter and his dad had been estranged until they started working together on these mysterious happenings, and things still don't always go so smoothly for the father and son, but each of them is key in figuring out, and hopefully preventing, this pattern of strange events.

Top 10 Wii Games for Teen

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 10:20:00 +0000

Get Cookin' on Wii

The best new "gadget" of the year, in our humble opinion: The Wii. Nintendo's cool new video game console is our favorite way to spend our gaming hours these days, and "addictive" doesn't even begin to describe how attached we are to our little game box.

What games do we recommend for summer Wii-ing? Here's our top 10.

1. Cooking Mama Cook Off.

It's more fun than real cooking, though the game feels like you are doing the real thing, as you chop, dice, slice, peel, fry, bake, and boil, using Wii's superinteractive controller. Make fun stuff like pudding, cream puffs, and Mexican, French, and Italian dishes. The best part: all the fun of cooking, none of the hassle of cleaning up afterward!

2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. Video games based on the summer blockbuster movies Spider-Man 3, Shrek the Third, Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End, TMNT (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) and Transformers. From high-flying Spidey and Shrek and his pals Donkey and Puss in Boots to the wily Captain Jack Sparrow (the videogame version of Jack is deliciously lifelike to star Johnny Depp) and the shape-shiftin' Transformers, if you see the movies, you're going to want to play the Wii games based on them, putting you right in the middle of the same action stars like Tobey Maguire, Orlando Bloom, Shia LaBeouf, and Josh Duhamel are involved in on the big screen.

7. Sonic and the Secret Rings

Sonic's first solo adventure since 1991 finds him in trademark superspeed mode, as you get to play in cool Arabian Nights settings. There's also a great party mode where four players can play simultaneously, which is perfect for summer gatherings with your pals.

8. Tamagotchi Party On!

Based on the lovable little Tamagotchi characters, the game allows you and three other players to compete for the chance to become the new president of Tamagotchi Planet!

9. Super Paper Mario

Turn Mario from 2-D to 3-D, as you help him save Princess Peach and Bowser from an evil villain who's kidnapped them!

10. Wario Ware: Smooth Moves

This fun game (with a yummy cotton candy pink cover that makes us happy every time we see it) includes more than 200 mini games, and lets you do fun stuff like turning the Wii controller on its side to pump it up and down to blow up a balloon, and put the controller on your hips and wiggle them to play with a hula hoop!

Tips on Meeting Your Boyfriends’ Parents…

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 20:28:00 +0000

You may have heard horror tales about meeting boyfriend’s parents for the 1st time, but pretend you didn’t (out of all my girlfriends just one of them had bad luck with her boyfriends’ folks, but those love birds still got engaged).

Anyway, I am sure you would still want his Mom and Dad go crazy about you. So, apart from an open mind and a positive outlook, here are a couple of other tips that you can use to make a great start with his family!

1. Wait

Don’t rush into meeting the family. Wait for the right time. Get to know your guy first. Once you’re sure that this relationship is ‘the one’ then mutually decide to meet the parents.

2. Research

Learn up names of family members and try to get photographs so you can recognize them before you are introduced. You’ll be more at ease if you know who is going to be present. I had an embarrassing moment when in the middle of the dinner I forgot the name of the aunt who was too at the table… Thank God I didn’t have to address her. Her name is Anna, and although we broke up with that guy, I remember his Aunt’s name till this day.

3. Venue

The right location is important. One good choice would be something neutral, like a restaurant. Choose one that is semi-formal unless you’re a pro at figuring out the cutlery!

4. Punctuality

Don’t you want to make a good impression? Don’t be late as it’s disrespectful to make others wait for you. If you’re running late then call and apologies and mention what time you can be expected.

5. Gifts

We all love them. However, finding the right gift is important. So find out in advance from your guy on what would be a good gift. Perhaps you could try a bottle of wine or some chocolates. I noticed that a box of expensive chocolates works perfectly. But make sure you know what kind they prefer - dark, white, milk chocolate…

6. Attire

Get as much information as you can from your mate. You don’t want to overdress or look sloppy. Stay away from mini skirts and anything that shows off your cleavage or underwear (bra straps in particular), see-throughs also should be avoided. Find out what style is expected - your boyfriend should surely know! Oh, and please, try not to put too much makeup. Many parents and grandparents might disapprove…

7. Conversation

So you dressed up real pretty, but do you have a mind? Then prove it but don’t go overboard. Try and not show off about your exploits and education. Try and involve all the members of the family. Be polite.

8. Flattery

Yes it works to an extent. Shower a little praise on them for making their son a fine gentleman. His mother certainly wouldn’t mind a few compliments on the food or home décor. But make sure you complement on things you really like (like their son :). You don’t want the compliments sound like little suck-up lies, do you?

9. Opinions

While it’s fine to have an opinion on certain matters, try and stay away from politics, religion and gender issues. You don’t want to find yourself contradicting all the other family members. Agreeing with things or staying politely quiet is the best policy when family debates begin. If giving an opinion can not be avoided, try to stay as neutral as possible, not to offend anyone.

10. Leave

After dinner stay a while and chat, but don’t linger on forever. They will probably want to wrap it up even if the evening went well. So thank everyone for having you over and make a graceful exit.

Meeting the parents doesn’t need to be a dreadful. So, basically just be nice, open and honest. If you plan things in advance or at least think over the questions they might ask you, you will feel more comfortable and prepared. I know it worked for me, and now my mother in law and I are in a great relationship :) I am pretty sure these tips will work for you too.

Good luck, and remember, if their son fell in love with you, they’ll love you too!

Alesha's changed!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 10:32:00 +0000

Never have we loved to hate a song so much. Or hated to love it. Or whatever. One thing's for sure, Alesha Dixon's latest song is so firmly under our skin, it's at one with our organs.

We love Alesha. Not only is she possibly the nicest lady in pop, but she's also pretty fiesty. Having had a catalogue of love life traumas (her hubby Harvey from So Solid ran off and had a baby with singer Javine) you'd excuse her for locking herself away for a good old blub. But not Alesha! She picked herself up, put on a smile, won Strictly Come Dancing and came back a lot brighter.

Look at how she's polished up over the last few years...

April 2003: With her girlband Mis Teeq. Alesha was the quick talking rapper. The other two were the..., hang on, what DID the other two do?

May 2003: With ex-husband and love rat Harvey. Altogether now, Booooooo....

June 2003: With a bit of a fro, on stage with Mis Teeq.

2005: In her towel when the fire alarm went off at the gym. WE'RE KIDDING! At the opening of a clothes store in London.

2006: Looking sharper and sporting a bob at the Mobo awards.

NOW: Sleek and sexy. And with a Beyonce / Nicole PCD edge. Alesha, we salute you.

Teens reaction to Barack Obama's victory

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 09:31:00 +0000

Herewith I write some thoughts from teen of Barack Obama's victory

Obama's victory means change

Photo courtesy of Obama for America

I was restless as I stared at the TV. I couldn’t help but think about what would happen if Barack Hussein Obama didn’t win. As the time passed I became so nervous I began biting my nails and clicking my pen over and over. I did not want to start to think about a potential winner (even though it was clear that Obama had more votes) because I felt it might jinx Obama’s chances of winning. Yes I know it sounds silly but that’s how much this election meant to me. Obama becoming president means change and I believe he will lead American in the right direction, starting with bringing our troops home from Iraq and more importantly getting America out of this economic crisis. As a junior in high school one of the things I’m concerned about is the cost of education. In one of his past speeches, I remember him saying how he would help students get more financial aid and that education was one of the things he would work most on. Obama’s speeches helped me believe that he would change America for the better. As we at L.A. Youth sat around watching ABC news I became filled with anticipation and began to have doubts as John McCain’s electoral votes grew slowly. At exactly 8 p.m. my heart skipped a beat as Obama was announced as the 44th president of the United States of America. Obama, a president for change. Yes!
Stefany Macario, 16, King Drew Medical Magnet HS

I was watching history being made

I’ve supported Barack Obama from the beginning. I remember watching him announce his candidacy for president two years ago. I felt inspired to care about politics and the future of our country. It also made me realize that this would be the last presidential election that I would not vote in and I wanted to know about the people I could re-elect in four years. As I followed the primaries, I was worried that he would lose to Hillary Clinton. But as he became the Democratic Party’s nominee, I was excited for the possibility of a huge change in American history occurring during my lifetime: an African American becoming president of a powerful, predominantly white nation. And finally, watching the election coverage and watching Obama take key states, I was overwhelmed by that sense of history and a feeling of this country moving forward. I’m so excited for the prospect of a change in our government (mostly a change from the current administration and having our country not be hated through out this world) and Barack Obama leading our country to a better, more environmentally and humanly conscious, place in this world.
Sam Landsberg, 15, Hamilton HS

Will people be angry?

The results on the television seemed clear enough, but how I felt was far more complicated. I am a Democrat, so of course I was rooting for Obama. However, my positive reaction was dimmed by other thoughts—the results were close, though not as close as the last election. I’m glad that Obama won, but not everyone feels that way. Almost half of the country won’t be thrilled by this result. We know that many Republicans are really upset, and will feel cheated by the outcome. This isn’t a happily-ever-after situation. The novelty of a black president, the novelty of a Democrat…this territory is unfamiliar. I’m excited about the changes that will be made in America, but at the same time, the worry about the unknown and the fear of others’ anger puts a damper on the situation.
Fiona Hansen, 16, Marlborough School

Equality for everyone

Barack Obama’s victory will prove to be a change for the better for America. His presidency will not only unite this nation, but will also end the war between our country and Iraq and the troops will get pulled out. President Obama has the capability and intelligence to resolve the problems and federal debt left by George Bush. The election of an African-American president has also given me a sense of hope that people are becoming more open and less prejudiced. I hope he’ll help with giving every person equal opportunity. I think his main goal will be to have everybody be treated fairly and the way they deserve. That is what gives people hope.
John Lisowski, 16, Laurel Springs

Faith in the future

As I sat watching the election results come in, my stomach was filled with an overwhelming sense of nervousness. I was watching ABC, when at 8:03 p.m. the new president was announced. As many had anticipated, Sen. Barack Obama became the new president of the United States. I jumped for joy and did my famous victory dance. Since Obama won, we can expect major changes to our country. I am absolutely ecstatic that Obama won because his proposals including increasing financial aid and getting us out of the war quickly, help Americans (including me) have hope for the future. Since 2000 we have suffered through George Bush’s troubled presidency, now that Obama is our new president, there is a new faith that America can recover from our current economical, environmental and racially divided situations.
Stacey Avnes, 14, Sherman Oaks Center for Enriched Studies

I never thought he'd win

In the beginning, I didn’t think he would get this far. But going into Election Day I was sure that Barack Obama was going crush John McCain. I was astonished by the lead Obama had in the polls. Everyone I knew, even if they were for McCain, would say Obama was going to win. Surprisingly the two candidates came a lot closer than I would imagine. I did not think it was possible for John McCain to get as many votes has he did. When I heard the ABC announcer tell America that Barack Obama was our new leader, I did not have to worry anymore. I felt like it was over. I felt relieved. I finally knew that that the country’s future was in great hands. From now on, I would no longer worry about John McCain becoming another George Bush.
Taila Proctor-Jackson, 13, Village Christian MS (Sun Valley)

I was excited to see a minority win

Even without high-definition flat screens and fancy computer graphics, Aaron knows how Barack Obama won.

On Nov. 4, 2008, my pride and faith in the United States was reborn as Barack Hussein Obama won the presidency. Dreams of Americans, including mine, of seeing a minority running for and winning the presidency of the United States became a reality. This victory is not only for Democrats or even the United States. It is a proud and historical victory for everyone in the world. As Obama proved, you don’t need to be white, come from a rich family or be a war hero to be a presidential candidate. All you need to be is an American willing to step up to the plate and be a leader.
Aaron Sayago, 17, Fairfax HS

Equality for everyone

We must work together now

As the polls closed and the votes rolled in, because my own vote went to Barack Obama, I cheered along. But I was concerned with one thing. Obama’s campaign stressed unity; it is a plan that involves everyone working together to grow our nation from the bottom up. McCain’s plan focused on the individual, with lower taxes and self-interest motivating the country. So what is the problem? Obama’s way requires every person to work together for the larger sake of our entire country. He encourages people to volunteer and wants to help people with issues such as college and healthcare. It is a plan that literally runs on hope. If we continue to be divided based on our political ideas, we will all fail. On the other hand, if Obama can unite America as he has the Democratic Party, everyone wins. As for me, I am hopeful. I’m excited to do my part by helping other people, then in the future having a job and paying taxes. I believe in Obama’s theory and I trust that the United States will live up to the “United” part of its name.
Alexander Gleckman, 18, South Pasadena HS

A disappointed Republican

I was disappointed when the election was called for Barack Obama even though I knew it was coming. I was still hopeful for John McCain. Many people ask me why I am a Republican. My answer is simple. Taxes. I just don’t want my family to pay more taxes. Also, despite what many Americans believe, there is no way Obama is going to bring the troops back home right away. It is hard to end any war and this one is especially complicated. But I commend Obama for mobilizing supporters with a perfect campaign. McCain had no chance against Obama ever since Sarah Palin’s stupidity was revealed to the public. President Obama will do his best for the benefit of the nation.
Elis Lee, 16, Crescenta Valley HS

Who will be in his cabinet?

In the beginning, I was an enthusiastic supporter of Sen. Hillary Clinton. However, Sen. Barack Obama’s message of unity and his maturity throughout the campaign convinced me that he is the candidate for America.
Now that Obama has been elected, it’s time for him to fulfill his promise to Americans. His message of hope, change and unity should be reflected in his choice of a cabinet that brings both Republicans and Democrats together.
I am excited for my future and America. I understand that Obama’s victory doesn’t guarantee a successful presidency, but I believe that Obama will be able to carry the inspiration Americans experienced throughout his campaign into office. I believe Obama’s patience and ability to consider all angles of an issue will make him successful.
Se Kim, 17, Pacifica Christian HS (Santa Monica)

Obama will tackle college costs

I felt joy when I heard Barack Obama’s name called as the 44th President of the United States. Obama means change for me because he cares about the cost of higher education. The next four years will be a test for him to see if he can make sure that costs don’t keep increasing each year. College is the most important thing on my mind because in just nine months I will be heading to college.
I was also in favor of Obama not because of his race but because of his composure, especially when McCain attacked him during the campaign. I think it is very important that a president has leadership skills and composure because other countries will challenge him. He has to work with these countries and handle criticism so that he can lead our nation. We will see if Obama will grant America’s and my wishes of change over the next four years.
Aaron Siegal-Eisman, 17, Los Angeles Center for Enriched Studies

Stay Organized

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 12:00:00 +0000

Avoid a clutter crisis before school starts.

Do you want to avoid drowning in the piles of paper that flooded your room last year? Make this school year different, and be more organized. Organization can take time and a bit of extra effort, but it's all worth it in the long run, especially when you're superbusy. Check out these tips on how to stay organized in the three most crucial areas.

Clean Your Desk Room
Knowing where everything is before the school year starts will help create a smooth transition into school. Once your desk is clean, collect any school supplies that you can reuse this school year. Start to fill your desk with any items that aren't already on it. Throw out old supplies and papers that are no longer useful. Keep extra school supplies or references in a drawer or box nearby. Have a thesaurus and dictionary nearby. Post-its are extremely useful; have them handy for quick reminders.

Get a filing cabinet
his will eliminate paper clutter on your desk (or floor). Use color-coded folders to organize your graded papers from previous years. Organize by school year and subject. If you're applying to colleges or searching for internships, use separate folders for these activities too.

Your Computer

File it!
Create an electronic folder for the current school year. Within that folder, make separate folders for the classes you will be taking. Be sure to place assignments, essays, review sheets, and class notes in these folders. Even if you handwrite your notes in class, retype them so you can organize and retrieve them faster. If you have material from previous years on the computer, organize it in folders too — you never know when it might be useful again.
Back it up!
When it comes to important documents on the computer, make flash drives and external hard drives your BFFs. Always back up your work. Save all your important papers, review sheets, and notes from your classes if you think they might be useful in the future.

Know your space
Design your desk area so that it's ideal for studying. A desk lamp and a comfortable chair can make your study sessions better. Sitting on your bed might be comfortable, but it can make you tired. Make sure you have an alternate study space available if your room becomes too distracting. If you're in college, jot down the library hours before school starts.
Know where your classes are before the first day of school to avoid getting lost. Memorize your schedule to make your routine less stressful. Looking at your schedule, mark down your free time and write down what you can do during that time.

Use Gmail
Even if you have a school e-mail account, you can forward all of that mail to a Gmail account. With Gmail, you can create color-coded labels to group and separate your e-mails. You can also filter your e-mails. Make sure to delete unnecessary e-mails. Reply to e-mails when you receive them to prevent a full in-box. In addition to a portable planner, online calendars and online to-do lists can be a big help because they often have notification features.

Your Backpack
Make sure your school bag is the right size for what you'll be carrying. One that's too big may cause you to bring more than you'll actually need — making it difficult to find items right away. One that's too small might cause you to leave things home or cram things to fit.

Carry your planner
Always have your planner with you when you go to and from class. Write down your due dates and test dates in your planner. Also, break up your study time and assignment work, so you don't have to do it all at once. This will make it easier to have time for other activities (like watching Gossip Girl). Make daily to-do lists to keep on top of your work and manage your time. Cross off what you complete. If you don't finish everything on your to-do list, make a note of it.

Separate your subjects
Whether you use a binder or a notebook with folders, make sure each subject has its own organized space. It's also a good idea to keep assignments separate from notes within the binders or folders. Carry a small bag or case for your writing utensils and smaller supplies. This will make them easily retrievable and prevent them from getting lost in your bag.

Planning for School

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 11:51:00 +0000

The new school year is just around the corner. Whether you're heading off to college for the first time or entering your junior year of high school, it's a good idea to start planning now!

School Supplies
What you'll need and how much of it will depend on your course load and teachers' requirements. But there are must-have items you'll want to have on hand before the year begins.

— Pens
— #2 pencils
— Notebooks
— Notepad
— Folders
— Binders
— Highlighters
— Post-its
— Index cards
— Pencil case
— Stapler
— Ruler
— Calculator
— Scissors
— Dictionary/thesaurus

On Budgets?
Remember, these items don't all need to be new! Before you go shopping for school supplies, look through your old supplies and see what's still in good condition. Go through old notebooks and see if there are any unused pages. If so, rip out the old notes, so the rest of the notebook has blank pages. You can also reuse folders and binders.

Don't worry about old doodles or those cheesy portraits of your old crush — jazz them up with pictures of friends or a collage of your favorite celebrities.

There's no need to spend money on penholders or desk organizers when you can make them yourself! Save aluminum soup cans after you use them. You can use them as is or decorate them — either way, you're saving the environment.

Packing List for College
So, you're going off to college. With the change of scenery, the new independence, and the responsibility headed your way, packing might be the last thing on your mind. Figuring what (and what not) to bring to school can save you a lot of stress when moving-in day comes closer. Bring this checklist with you before you gather your things or head to the store.

FOOD: A Girl's Gotta Eat!
— Snacks
— Water bottles
— Cups
— Dishes
— Utensils
— Mini refrigerator
— Coffeemaker*
— Microwave*
— Toaster*
— Tupperware
— Ziploc bags
— Paper towels
— Dish soap
— Dishrag
* Make sure your school allows these items.

BATH: So Fresh and So Clean
— Shampoo and conditioner
— Toothbrush and paste
— Towels and bathrobe
— Shower tote
— Soap
— Razor
— Makeup
— Lotion
— Hairbrush
— Contact solution
— Hairspray/gel
— Face wash
— Deodorant
— Laundry basket
— Detergent
— Dryer sheets
— Tissues
— Air freshener
— Febreze
— Flip-flops

BED: Be a Sleeping Beauty
— Sheets (your school will tell you what size; generally it's an extra-long twin)
— Pillow(s) and Case(s)
— Comforter
— Extra blanket
— Bedside fan
— Reading light
— Bedside storage
— Bed risers
— Mirror that can be hung
— Posters
— Over-the-door hooks

CLOTHING/ACCESSORIES: What to Wear?
— Underwear (20)
— Socks (20)
— Pants (6)
— Shorts (2)
— Shirts (12)
— Pajamas
— Gym clothes
— Formal outfit (2)
— Formal shoes
— Sneakers (gym and casual)
— Sandals
— Slippers
— Clothing organizer
— Shoe organizer
— Hangers
— Lint brush
— Umbrella
— Backpack
— Purses
— Jewelry
If applicable:
— Winter coat
— Sweaters (5)
— Gloves/hat/scarf
— Snow boots
— Rain boots

TECHNOLOGY: It's Electric!
— CD/MP3 player
— Phone
— Computer
— Printer
— Computer paper
— Flash drive
— Radio/alarm clock
— Alarm clock
— Hair dryer/straightner
— Extension cord
— Batteries
— Ethernet cord
— Lightbulbs
Coordinate these with your roommate:
— TV
— DVD player
— Speakers

DESK: Get to Work!
— Bulletin board
— Dry Erase Board
— Extension cord
— Lamp
— Pens
— #2 pencils
— Notebooks
— Notepad
— Folders
— Binders
— Highlighters
— Post-its
— Index cards
— Pencil case
— Stapler
— Ruler
— Calculator
— Scissors
— Tape
— Glue
— Sticky tack (to hang pictures/posters on the wall)
— Staples
— Wite-Out
— Dictionary/thesaurus
— Permanent markers
— Wastebasket
— Small rug
— Flashlight
— Batteries
— Daily planner

The Truth About College Dating

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 11:43:00 +0000

You've aced dating in high school — now get ready for a whole new class of relationships in college.

Remember The First Day of High School
You've heard the basics about college dating: more types of guys, more freedom, and more mature relationships (hopefully). But with close living quarters, no parents, and stressful classes, things get intense, and college has its own soap operas. Read on for the inside dirt you'd have no way of knowing until you're on campus — and need to know if you already are.

1. Hookups outnumber boyfriends
With so many different types of guys around, it's tempting to sample them all! Why not, right? Hookups can be fun, but a lot of times they're mini bombs that explode in one of two ways: into a relationship (rare!), or into misunderstanding, hurt, or just thin air. At the typical beer-soaked party (even if you're sober), you can't always tell which guys want a one-night thing and which ones truly like you. If you've been drinking, there's not always a trusted friend there to stop you from going too far with a guy you just met. Just like there might be things you're not telling him about your life, he could be hiding stuff too. What if that hot econ major has anger issues or a closet cocaine addiction? Meet guys and have fun, but stick with your friends at parties so you can watch out for one another. And don't make it a contest!

2. Things get way more intense
Relationships move faster in college, physically and emotionally. Basically, three months of college dating (where you can have breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night pizza with a guy if you want) is like a year of high school dating (when you're living with your parents' restrictions). New college couples tend to rush from the getting-to-know-you stage to the practically-living-together one. It's like they're addicted to their new freedom. And the more intense it gets, the more it hurts when it ends. So hold off before stocking your guy's shower caddy with your Venus razor. Not only can you lose yourself if you spend all your time with a guy, you also lose the time you'd spend meeting other guys and potential lifelong friends. Be sure to make room in your busy love life for the rest of your college experience.

3. There's a new dating vocabulary
Love it or hate it: Dorms can be cesspools of debauchery! Living in the same building as guys creates interesting new situations (and vocab words!). There's sexile (when your roommate hooks up with someone in your room and you're shut out) and dormcest (dating people who live in your dorm). Dorm gossip can devastate your reputation more than high school gossip — you live with the people who know your business! Then there's the walk of shame: your trek home the morning after hooking up with a guy and sleeping in his room (it's actually against the rules at some campuses to stay over!). It's seen as a rite of passage, but doing it a lot won't make you feel great about yourself (the word shame isn't there by accident!). We know you'll pass college dating tests! Just watch out for the trick questions, okay?

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TEEN CHANNELS

Teen Takeover The Hottest Stars

Teen Takeover The Hottest Stars

MILEY CYRUS

TAYLOR SWIFT

SELENA GOMEZ

JORDIN SPARKS

DEMI LOVATO

DAVID ARCHULETA

HAYLEY WILLIAMS

SHENAE GRIMES

MIRANDA COSGROVE

JONAS BROTHERS

Emma Watson Said I'd Go Naked

Emma Watson Said I'd Go Naked

Top TV Shows for Teen in Fall 2008

Top TV Shows for Teen in Fall 2008

Gossip Girl

Smallville

The Real World/Road Rules Challenge: The Island: Hollywood

One Tree Hill

New Beverly Hills 90210

Privileged

Chuck

Lincoln Heights

Greek

Fringe

Top Summer 2008 Reads for Teen

Top 10 Wii Games for Teen

Tips on Meeting Your Boyfriends’ Parents…

1. Wait

2. Research

3. Venue

4. Punctuality

5. Gifts

6. Attire

7. Conversation

8. Flattery

9. Opinions

10. Leave

Alesha's changed!

Teens reaction to Barack Obama's victory

Stay Organized

Planning for School

The Truth About College Dating

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