Farmingdale Library Teens

Fill Out The Survey

2012-03-01T07:03:00.002-08:00

I want to know what you want!

Fill out the following survey and tell me what kinds of programs you want to have here.

It's Always Something Writing Contest

2012-02-26T13:45:00.000-08:00

The Gilda’s Club NYC It’s Always Something Teen Essay Contest is a contest open to teens in grades 9-12, residing in New York City or Long Island. The goal of the contest is to provide a forum for teens to express their feelings about cancer and to raise awareness among the general population about the impact of cancer on teenagers.

The deadline for the contest is May 18.

Find out more information, go to The Gilda's Club Site

Hollywood Walk of Fame

2012-02-23T07:38:00.000-08:00

The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce recently released the honorees getting their Stars on the Walk of Fame in 2012. Some of those honored this year are:

Jennifer Aniston
Scarlett Johansson
Kate Winslet
Valerie Bertinelli
Matt Groening (creator of "The Simpsons")
Jennifer Lopez

The full list can be found at the Walk of Fame site.

There are five categories a person can get a star for: Motion Pictures, Broadcast Television, Music, Radio, and Theatre. A few excpetions have been made over the years. Neal Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins all have a moon shaped star in honor of the first Moon landing. Muhammad Ali and Magic Johnson both have stars as well. Only one person has a star in all five categories and that's Gene Autry.

In order to get a star, you must be nominated and the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce picks the honorees from that list. There are two caveats: you must attend a public presentation for the unveiling of your star and there is a fee for the upkeep of the star.

2012 Nickelodeon Kids Choice Awards

2012-02-17T12:30:00.000-08:00

Nominees were recently announced for the awards. The show will air on March 31 at 8pm on Nickelodeon with Will Smith hosting. Here are the nominees:

TV

Favorite TV Show
Good Luck Charlie
iCarly
Victorious
Wizards of Waverly Place

Favorite Reality Show
American Idol
America’s Funniest Home Videos
America’s Got Talent
Wipeout

Favorite TV Actor
Tim Allen
Ty Burrell
Alex Heartman
Jake Short

Favorite TV Actress
Miranda Cosgrove
Selena Gomez
Victoria Justice
Bridgit Mendler

Funniest TV Sidekick
Nathan Kress
Jennette McCurdy
Jennifer Stone
Jerry Trainor

Favorite Cartoon
Kung Fu Panda
Phineas & Ferb
Scooby Doo! Mystery Incorporated
SpongeBob SquarePants

SPORTS

Favorite Male Athlete
Derek Jeter
Michael Phelps
Tim Tebow
Shaun White

Favorite Female Athlete
Kelly Clark
Danica Patrick
Serena Williams
Venus Williams

FILM

Favorite Movie
Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2
The Muppets
The Smurfs

Favorite Movie Actor
Jim Carrey (Mr. Popper’s Penguins)
Johnny Depp (Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides)
Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2)
Adam Sandler (Jack & Jill)

Favorite Movie Actress
Amy Adams (The Muppets)
Kristen Stewart (The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn, Part 1)
Sofia Vergara (The Smurfs)
Emma Watson (Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2)

Favorite Animated Movie
Cars 2
Kung Fu Panda 2
Puss in Boots
Rio

Favorite Voice from an Animated Movie
Antonio Banderas (Puss in Boots)
Jack Black (Kung Fu Panda 2)
Johnny Depp (Rango)
Katy Perry (The Smurfs)

MUSIC

Favorite Music Group
Big Time Rush
Black Eyed Peas
Lady Antebellum
LMFAO

Favorite Male Singer
Justin Bieber
Toby Keith
Bruno Mars
Usher

Favorite Female Singer
Lady Gaga
Selena Gomez
Katy Perry
Taylor Swift

Favorite Song
Born this Way (by Lady Gaga)
Firework (by Katy Perry)
Party Rock Anthem (by LMFAO)
Sparks Fly (by Taylor Swift)

OTHER CATEGORIES

Favorite Book
“Diary of a Wimpy Kid series”
“Harry Potter series”
“Hunger Games series”
“Twilight series”

Favorite Videogame
Just Dance 3
Lego Star Wars: The Complete Saga
Mario Kart 7
Super Mario Galaxy

Favorite Buttkicker
Jessica Alba
Tom Cruise
Kelly Kelly
Taylor Lautner

New Angry Birds Game!

2012-02-17T09:57:00.000-08:00

They've conquered smartphones and social networks. Next up for the Angry Birds?

The final frontier.

The fourth major release (due out March 22) in the Angry Birds series is a departure in more ways than one. The hook? You'll be lobbing birds on entirely new planets while contending with zero gravity, leading to new gameplay elements like slow-motion puzzles and "lightspeed" destruction. And just like with other Angry Birds games, expect those outer-space physics to be dead on.

Though the specifics are still under wraps, Rovio has confirmed that the game will feature some completely new birds alongside some familiar ones, now sporting new super powers. (No word if Hawkman makes a cameo.) The game's three-star level rating system will be back as well.

With Angry Birds Space, however, they're kicking it up a notch by simultaneously releasing the product in mobile gaming, retail, and animation channels, a multi-media blitz that the company believes is a first for a mobile game.

Rovio plans to announce more specific partnerships -- not to mention more gameplay details -- in the coming weeks via the official Angry Birds Space website.

School Library Journal's Battle of the Books

2012-02-16T11:49:00.000-08:00

School Library Journal's Battle of the Kids' Books is a competition among 16 of the very best books for young people of the year, judged by some of the biggest names in children's books. Here are the match-ups:

Match 1 Amelia Lost vs Anya's Ghost

Match 2 Between Shades of Gray vs Bootleg

Match 3 The Cheshire Cheese Cat vs Chime

Match 4 Daughter of Smoke and Bone vs Dead End in Norvelt

Match 5 Drawing from Memory vs The Grand Plan to Fix Everything

Match 6 Heart and Soul vs Inside Out and Back Again

Match 7 Life: An Exploded Diagram vs A Monster Calls

Match 8 Okay for Now vs Wonderstruck

I'll let you know who won once the Rounds are done! If you want to follow along, go to the School Library Journal's Battle of the Books site

A Wrinkle in Time Turns 50!

2012-02-10T10:55:00.000-08:00

Fifty years ago, Madeleine L’Engle introduced the world to A Wrinkle in Time and the wonderful and unforgettable characters Meg and Charles Wallace Murry, and their friend Calvin O’Keefe. When the children learn that Mr. Murry has been captured by the Dark Thing, they time travel to Camazotz, where they must face the leader IT in the ultimate battle between good and evil—a journey that threatens their lives and our universe. A Newbery Award winner, A Wrinkle in Time is an iconic novel that continues to inspire millions of fans around the world.

To celebrate this wonderful occasion, I'll be holding a Wrinkle in Time contest. Pick up the contest beginning February 11. The winner gets a Wrinkle in Time t-shirt, tote bag, and pin!

If you want to celebrate more, "Like" the Wrinkle in Time Facebook page. Here's the link:

Wrinkle in Time

There will be a celebration on February 11 in New York City with a panel of today's celebrated children's authors including Lois Lowry, Rebecca Stead, Katherine Paterson, and more! Audio & video recordings of Madeleine L'Engle will be shown as well as celebrities reading from the book and a performance from the play. This video will be put on the Facebook page after the event is over.

Amazing Spider-Man Trailer

2012-02-07T12:10:00.000-08:00

The official trailer for the new Spider-Man movie was recently released. The movie will be in theaters on July 3. Here's the trailer:

Hunger Games Second Trailer

2012-02-02T13:02:00.001-08:00

Is it March 23 yet?????

Poetry Contest

2012-01-30T13:17:00.000-08:00

As 2012 is the international year of the cooperative, it is a great

time to celebrate the cooperative spirit and honor your community.

By crafting a poem that details how you have given back to others,

you can win a spot on Cabot Creamery’s butter box and share your

story with the world.

Have you worked alone, with your family, or in the classroom to

give back in some special way? We want to know what you’ve done.

Be creative, write from your heart and find the words that capture

your good deeds. Tell us how working to change the lives of others

has changed your own life.

TO ENTER

Write a poem that tells us how you have made a difference

to your community and the people who live there.

You must be a student in Grades 5-8.

Your entry must be your own original, unpublished work.

You may submit only one poem, no longer than 20 lines in length.

You must list your name, grade level, school name and address and

your teacher or adult sponsors name, phone number and email

Poems must be received by April 30, 2012

Winners will be chosen by June 1, 2012

Grand Prize Winner: $250 and your poem on a Cabot Butter Box

which will be seen by tens of thousands of people in hundreds

of supermarkets all across America.

Second Place Winner: $100

Three finalists: $50 each.

AND: All winning poems will be published on Potato Hill

and Cabot websites.

Mail your poem entry to be received by April 30, 2012 to:

Cabot Creamery Cooperative

Attn: Poetry Contest

One Home Farm Way

Montpelier, VT 05602

Fax: 802-371-1200

Email: healthinfo@cabotcheese.com

Oscar Nominations

2012-01-24T10:59:00.000-08:00

The list of Oscar nominations came out today. In case you didn't see it, here they are:

Best Picture

The Artist
The Descendants
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close
The Help
Hugo
Midnight in Paris
Moneyball
The Tree of Life
War Horse

Best Supporting Actor

Kenneth Branagh, My Week with Marilyn
Jonah Hill, Moneyball
Nick Nolte, Warrior
Christopher Plummer, Beginners
Max Von Sydow, Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close

Best Supporting Actress

Berenice Bejo, The Artist
Jessica Chastain, The Help
Melissa McCarthy, Bridesmaids
Janet McTeer, Albert Nobbs
Octavia Spencer, The Help

Best Actress

Glenn Close, Albert Nobbs
Viola Davis, The Help
Rooney Mara, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
Meryl Streep, The Iron Lady
Michelle Williams, My Week with Marilyn

Best Actor

Demian Bichir, A Better Life
George Clooney, The Descendants
Jean Dujardin, The Artist
Gary Oldman, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy
Brad Pitt, Moneyball

-->

Best Director

Midnight in Paris, Woody Allen
The Artist, Michel Hazanavicius
The Descendants, Alexander Payne
Hugo, Martin Scorsese
The Tree of Life, Terrence Malick

Best Adapted Screenplay

The Descendants, Alexander Payne, Nat Faxon and Jim Rash
Hugo, John Logan
The Ides of March, George Clooney, Grant Heslov and Beau Willimon
Moneyball, Steve Zaillian and Aaron Sorkin. Story by Stan Chervin.
Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, Bridget O’ Connor and Peter Straughan

Best Original Screenplay

The Artist, Michael Hazanavicius
Bridesmaids, Annie Mumolo and Kristen Wiig
Margin Call, J.C. Chandor
Midnight in Paris, Woody Allen
A Separation, Asghar Farhadi

Best Animated Feature

A Cat in Paris
Chico & Rita
Kung Fu Panda 2
Puss in Boots
Rango

Printz Award Winner & Honors

2012-01-23T08:03:00.000-08:00

The Michael Printz Award is given out annually by the American Library Association for the Best Book for Young Adults. The winner and honors were announced today. Here's the list:

Winner:
Where Things Come Back by John Corey Whaley

Honors:
Why We Broke Up by Daniel Handler
The Returning by Christine Hinwood
Jasper Jones by Craig Silvey
The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater

Teen Advisory Board: Virtual Edition

2012-01-19T12:07:00.000-08:00

A library Teen Advisory Board (TAB) help the library plan programs and suggest books and music that other teens would be interested in. I've tried to create one that meets in person with little interest, so I thought I'd create a virtual one. Tell me what you want!

Let me know: book suggestions, program ideas, anything that comes to your mind!

I'll get back to you with a response.

Cookie Pops

2012-01-12T11:06:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, a small group of teens joined me in making Cookie Pops. Here are the pictures:

Looking for Alaska Book Review

2012-01-03T10:52:00.000-08:00

I've offered in the past if a teen is willing to write a review of a book, TV show, video game, or movie that I would post in on this blog and offer community service hours for the review. Here's one on the great (my opinion) book Looking for Alaska by John Green:

“I go to seek a Great Perhaps.” It is these last words of poet François Rabelais that inspire Miles Halter, a typical sixteen year old whose hobbies include memorizing famous people’s last words, to seek more out of his tedious life in Florida. Miles heads to Culver Creek Preparatory School in Alabama in search of his “Great Perhaps.”He ends up discovering the true meaning of friendship, loyalty, love and life beyond the unknown.

Broken up into two sections entitled Before and After, John Green’s Looking for Alaska, chronicles the lives of five teenagers attending Culver Creek boarding school. In the Before section, readers get enveloped in the characters unique personalities and alluring lifestyles. The novel takes a leisurely start as the main characters are introduced. This slow progression is necessary for the development of the characters, and I advise you not to become discouraged. It quickly picks up once the reader meets Chip Martin, appropriately nicknamed “The Colonel”, Miles’ mischievous roommate with a mastermind for pranks. The two automatically hit it off. Chip grants the scrawny, rail-thin Miles the contradictory nickname “Pudge.” Miles is referred to as Pudge for the remainder of the novel. Pudge’s world is turned upside down when he meets the alluring Alaska Young. He automatically falls for her irresistible charm and sex appeal. “Now is as good a time as any to say that she was beautiful. In the dark beside me, she smelled of sweat and sunshine and vanilla…She had the kind of eyes that predisposed you to support her every endeavor. And not just beautiful, but hot, too...” Green’s enticing description of Alaska causes the reader to fall just as hard for her unique, mysterious demeanor. Alaska pulls Pudge into her “labyrinth,” as they muse over Simón Bolívar’s last words, “How will I ever get out of this labyrinth?” They grow closer in between drinking, smoking, falling in love, the occasional homework and most importantly, planning pranks of epic measures with fellow colleagues Takumi and Lara. In the After section, nothing is the same.

Green’s target audience is high school students, although the novel was criticized in the past for its slightly risqué subject matter. Green accurately depicts the “teen” lifestyle as behaviors that are realistic aspects of teens’ lives. Commonsensemedia.org rates the book appropriate for ages 14 and older. I found Looking for Alaska extremely relatable. It is an exceptional novel with an astounding cast of characters. It is a story about loss, gain and how to move on from tragedy. Readers will come away with a crucial message about life, friendship, and finding the hope to continue towards what may seem like an unimaginable future.

Mary Ann Esposito Visit

2011-12-23T08:00:00.000-08:00

In November, Chef and TV Personality Mary Ann Esposito visited the library. One of our teens attended her visit and here's her report:

On November 17, Mary Ann Esposito, a renowned chef who prepares various delights inspired by the irresistible flavors of Italy, made an appearance at the Farmingdale Public Library. She shares her delectable recipes on her nationally televised PBS series, Ciao Italia as well as her 12 cookbooks that fill the shelves of bookstores everywhere. Her most recent cookbook, Ciao Italia Family Classics, features over 200 recipes passed down by three generations of family cooks. Fresh off the presses, her newest treasure was seen in the grip of nearly 300 spectators, all who find inspiration in the traditional Italian dishes she prepares. The sense of nostalgia she offers is accentuated in Ciao Italia Family Classics and transports us back to the old days, when sweet smells diffused through the air from the kitchen, where grandma, clad in her festive apron attempting to bring her meal to perfection, was a common sight.

Esposito discussed the importance of reinstalling the values of a healthy, hearty meal for the next generation, who seem to be bombarded with the temptations of unfulfilling fast foods. Our poor eating habits here in America have a huge influence, and child obesity is now becoming a problem in Italy. She is all for the benefits of eating natural and healthy foods. Healthy meals do not have to be inedible. Esposito’s cookbooks are filled with healthy recipes. The key to a good meal is fresh ingredients. Esposito referenced the extensive garden she grows in her backyard. She gets all of her ingredients from her garden. She offered some advice on getting fresh vegetables. “I hate the supermarket,” she exclaimed, disgusted by the genetic engineered fruits and vegetables that litter the produce sections. An important part of living a healthy lifestyle is fresh and natural ingredients and having a garden allows you access to the freshest and healthiest ingredients, not induced with pesticides.

She reminded us of the benefits of eating a healthy home cooked meal together as a family. This value is the inspiration of her cookbook. “The best memories are made in the kitchen and around the table,” she ensured. She stresses the importance of not only the type of food a family eats, but how they eat it. She is all for eating together as a family. If utilized well, dinner time can be a time for sharing everything from the events of your day to your hopes and dreams. It inculcates the importance of family values. It is crucial that these values be carried down from generation to generation.

When Esposito is sharing her tips for success, both inside and outside of the kitchen, she is dedicated to providing for the community. She has an organization that offers scholarships to young chefs springing into the culinary world. In addition, she takes a group of energetic chefs to Italy each year, where she teaches them her tricks of the trade, while they make an exclusive appearance on her PBS show.

Don’t try to make excuses around Mary Ann Esposito. She shunned at the typical excuse of not having the time to cook or eat together as a family. “Simplicity is the key, and it can make all the difference.” Mary Ann Esposito’s old school cooking style is refreshing in this evolving society.

By AJ

The Hobbit Trailer

2011-12-21T07:47:00.000-08:00

I am excited about two movies coming out next year, "The Hunger Games" and this one:

Teen Reads Contest

2011-12-07T08:50:00.001-08:00

Celebrate the season with Teenreads.com's Sixth Annual Holiday Cheer contest and feature! From now through December 16th, you can enter to win a "Bundle of Holiday Reading and Fun." Five winners each will receive an assortment of books you'll want to read any time of year, along with tons of seasonal goodies: Peeps Marshmallow Snowmen, green rock candy, 12 peppermint candy canes, a Wilton Holiday Peppermint Bark Kit, Lotsa Lites! Flashing Holiday Necklace, and a snowman stocking.

All you need to do is fill out the form, you can find it at Teen Reads

Good luck!

Bank of America Student Leaders

2011-12-05T11:48:00.000-08:00

If you are a student with a passion for improving your community, we would like to help you turn that passion into action. We are looking for leaders who are high school juniors and seniors in the US.

As a Student Leader, you will participate in:

An eight-week paid internship at a nonprofit/charitable organization

A week-long Student Leadership Summit in Washington, DC (July) to gain valuable civic, social and business leadership skills (all expenses paid as part of the Student Leaders Program)

To find out more information and apply, go to Bank Of America's site here.

Grammy Nominations

2011-12-02T06:53:00.000-08:00

The Grammy Nominations were announced recently. Here's a sample of some of the nominees:

Album Of The Year:
21— Adele
Wasting Light— Foo Fighters
Born This Way— Lady Gaga
Doo-Wops & Hooligans — Bruno Mars
Loud — Rihanna

Record Of The Year:
“Rolling In The Deep” — Adele
“Holocene” — Bon Iver
“Grenade” — Bruno Mars
“The Cave” — Mumford & Sons
“Firework” — Katy Perry

Best New Artist:
The Band Perry
Bon Iver
J. Cole
Nicki Minaj
Skrillex

Song Of The Year:
“All Of The Lights” — Jeff Bhasker, Malik Jones, Warren Trotter & Kanye West, songwriters
(Kanye West, Rihanna, Kid Cudi & Fergie)
“The Cave” — Ted Dwane, Ben Lovett, Marcus Mumford & Country Winston, songwriters (Mumford & Sons)
“Grenade” — Brody Brown, Claude Kelly, Philip Lawrence, Ari Levine, Bruno Mars & Andrew Wyatt,
songwriters (Bruno Mars)
“Holocene” — Justin Vernon, songwriter (Bon Iver)
“Rolling In The Deep” — Adele Adkins & Paul Epworth, songwriters (Adele)

Who are you hoping to win?

Angry Birds in Action

2011-11-23T07:13:00.000-08:00

Here is a quick movie of the Angry Birds in action:

Angry Birds Craft

2011-11-23T07:11:00.000-08:00

Last night, a group of teens created their own Angry Birds using yard to make pom-poms. We had a great time making them and then using our slingshot, playing the game. Here are the pictures:

Hunger Games Trailer

2011-11-21T07:39:00.000-08:00

For those of you who may have missed it, here's the official trailer for the Hunger Games movie:

Peoples Choice Awards Voting Opened

2011-11-10T07:50:00.000-08:00

Go to the People's Choice website here to vote for this year's award. Here are some of the nominees:

Favorite Movie

Bridesmaids

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2

The Help

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides

Transformers: Dark of the Moon

Favorite Movie Actor

Daniel Radcliffe

Hugh Jackman

Johnny Depp

Robert Pattinson

Ryan Reynolds

Favorite Movie Actress

Anne Hathaway

Emma Stone

Jennifer Aniston

Julia Roberts

Reese Witherspoon

Favorite Movie Icon

George Clooney

Harrison Ford

Morgan Freeman

Robert DeNiro

Tom Hanks

Vote for Your Favorite Book Trailer

2011-10-20T06:27:00.000-07:00

Now's your chance to voice your literary opinion by voting for your favorite book trailer. The voting period has begun for the second annual SLJ Trailee Awards, recognizing the important role book trailers play in promoting books and encouraging reading.

Six judges have narrowed down more than 75 submissions to four finalists in six categories. Check out the amazing trailers here and start voting for your favorites. The deadline for voting is December 16, 2011, 12 PM EST, and the winner will be announced at the American Library Association's midwinter meeting in Dallas, TX, January 20-24. Enjoy the show!

Halloween Costume Ideas

2011-10-18T12:28:00.001-07:00

I saw these surfing the net and thought I'd share for those of you still undecided what you are going to dress up as for Halloween:

Halloween Costume Ideas

Grammy Camp

2011-10-12T07:59:00.000-07:00

GRAMMY Camp

Grammy Camp is the best summer music program ever.

You get to spend more than a week living, breathing, eating, drinking music – with students from all over the country and music industry pros who know how it all works. You’ll meet guest artists, write and record new music, visit cool music sites, and finish strong with a final concert in a professional venue. And you’ll get really great GRAMMY Camp swag.

Plus – financial assistance is available for students who need it.

GRAMMY Camp 2011 had two summer sessions:

GRAMMY Camp NY – August 2-8 – Converse Rubber Tracks Studio – Brooklyn

Thirty-five high school students from all over the country descended on Brooklyn on August 2, 2011 for 7 days of total music immersion. GRAMMY Camp NY is hosted by Converse at its brand new “Rubber Tracks” studio in Brooklyn.

Each student will come to Camp in a specific career field: Music Business & Production, Singer/Songwriter, or Performance – Instrumental or Vocal. Teams will be created from each of these fields to take a music project from inception culminating with a launch party held at the Best Buy Theater in Times Square. This real-world, hands on environment will involve an in-depth look at the entire creative process from its first spark of original material through the promotion and marketing of a finished product.
You day will be packed from early to late – in classes, in rehearsals, on field-trips, and listening to guest artists. GRAMMY nominees and winners make up the core faculty as well as lots of the guests that you’ll spend time with throughout Camp.

Campers will sleep and eat – and hopefully shower daily – in nearby housing accommodations. Financial assistance is available for students who need it. And a discounted tuition is available if you want to go to Camp NY

They are also hiring counselor positions.

For more info, go to the website: Grammy Camp

School Library Journal Teen Music Reviews

2011-10-06T06:44:00.000-07:00

School Library Journal uses teens from around the country (and in this month's case, right here on Long Island) to review books and music. I thought I'd share the latest music reviews:

The Rip Tide, Beirut (Pompeii Records)
Beirut's latest album, The Rip Tide, made its debut in the in the U.K. before coming to the United States. The well-known indie band made its mark with the 2007 album The Flying Club Cup. The Rip Tide features only nine songs, the equivalent of 33 minutes, and this defiantly small effort can easily go unnoticed. Listeners will sense Zach Condon's talent behind the compositions, but many tracks feel melancholy and at times sentimental. The two tracks that most reflect Beirut's very distinct sound, complete with fading horns and background acoustics, are "East Harlem" and "The Peacock." Other tracks to check out are "Santa Fe," "Goshen," and "Port of Call." Although at least one reviewer has said the album possesses a "sunny" tone, to my ears, it was more bittersweet than jovial.—Frecelyn D., grade 11, Floral Park (NY) Memorial High School

Own the Night, Lady Antebellum (Capital Nashville)
Lady Antebellum's latest album, Own the Night, shows how the country music group has continued to grow as both songwriters and performers. Their life experiences are reflected in these 12 tender, wistful tunes about love and romance. Charles Kelley and Hillary Scott's duel vocals have always been the group's ace in the hole, and this album is no exception. With little extras, like a mandolin, a B3 organ riff, and an arena-rock ballad, Lady A delivers hit after hit. Don't-miss tracks include "Cold as Stone," "We Owned the Night," "Singing Me Home," and "Dancin' Away with My Heart." There's no question that Lady A's fans will enjoy everything this recording has to offer.—Rachel L., grade 12, Floral Park (NY) Memorial High School

I'm With You, Red Hot Chili Peppers (Warner)
I'm With You is the Red Hot Chili Peppers' 10th studio album, and its first in about five years. New guitarist Josh Klinghoffer is a breath of fresh air for a band that has had such a long career. Unfortunately, Klinghoffer isn't featured enough here and hopefully will play a bigger role in future releases. His presence gives some new depth to the Peppers with his numerous musical styles. The result is a funky album that doesn't totally depart from RHCP's classic punk sound. Tracks to check out include "Did I Let You Know," "Happiness Loves Company," "Monarchy of Roses," and the inspiring "Brendan's Death Song."—Bianka N., grade 12, Floral Park (NY) Memorial High School

The Trevor Project

2011-10-05T08:27:00.000-07:00

The Trevor Project is determined to end suicide among LGBTQ youth by providing life-saving and life-affirming resources including our nationwide, 24/7 crisis intervention lifeline, digital community and advocacy/educational programs that create a safe, supportive and positive environment for everyone.

Here's a sample of one of their many "It Gets Better' videos:

To find out more about them, here's the link: The Trevor Project

Banned Books Week

2011-09-26T09:10:00.000-07:00

September 24 - October 1 is Banned Books Week

Banned Books Week is the only national celebration of the freedom to read. It was launched in 1982 in response to a sudden surge in the number of challenges to books in schools, bookstores and libraries. More than 11,000 books have been challenged since 1982.

The 10 most challenged titles of 2010 were:
And Tango Makes Three, by Peter Parnell and Justin Richardson
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, by Sherman Alexie
Brave New World, by Aldous Huxley
Crank, by Ellen Hopkins
The Hunger Games (series), by Suzanne Collins
Lush, by Natasha Friend
What My Mother Doesn't Know, by Sonya Sones
Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting by in America, by Barbara Ehrenreich
Revolutionary Voices edited by Amy Sonnie
Twilight (series), by Stephenie Meyer

This year, for the first time, readers from around the world will be able to participate virtually in Banned Books Week, Sept. 24 – Oct.1. During this year’s celebration of Banned Books Week, readers will be able to proclaim the virtues of their favorite banned books by posting videos of themselves reading excerpts to a dedicated YouTube channel. Check out the channel here: Virtual Read-Out

To get more information, visit the website at Banned Books Week

Profile in Courage Essay Contest

2011-09-21T12:34:00.000-07:00

The JFK Library foundation invites US high school students to write an essay on an act of political courage by a US elected official who served during or after 1956.

The first place winner will receive $10,000. The second place winner receives $1000. Up to five finalist will receive $500.

For contest information, registration, and to submit your essay, go to JFK Library

Breaking Dawn Trailer

2011-09-21T07:14:00.000-07:00

In case you haven't seen it yet, here's the official trailer for Breaking Dawn Part 1

Alliance for Young Artists and Writers Awards

2011-09-01T09:53:00.000-07:00

The Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, identifies teenagers with exceptional artistic and literary talent and brings their remarkable work to a national audience through The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. The Awards have an impressive legacy dating back to 1923 and a noteworthy roster of past winners including Andy Warhol, Sylvia Plath, Truman Capote, Richard Avedon, Robert Redford and Joyce Carol Oates.

The Awards are an important opportunity for students to be recognized for their creative talents. Each year, the Alliance partners with more than 100 regional affiliates across the country to bring the program to local communities. Teens in grades 7 through 12 can apply in 30 categories of art and writing for the chance to earn scholarships and have their works exhibited or published.

They should be announcing the information to apply for this year's awards soon. To find out more information, go to their website here: Alliance for Young Artists and Writers

VMA Winners

2011-08-30T11:05:00.000-07:00

In case you missed the VMA's Sunday Night, here's who won:

VIDEO OF THE YEAR
Katy Perry, “Firework”

BEST FEMALE VIDEO
Lady Gaga, “Born This Way”

BEST NEW ARTIST
Tyler, The Creator, “Yonkers”

BEST MALE VIDEO
Justin Bieber, “U Smile”

BEST COLLABORATION
Katy Perry featuring Kanye West, “E.T.”

BEST HIP-HOP VIDEO
Nicki Minaj, “Super Bass”

BEST ROCK VIDEO
Foo Fighters, “Walk”

BEST POP VIDEOBritney Spears, “Till the World Ends”

BEST VIDEO WITH A MESSAGELady Gaga, “Born This Way”

BEST DIRECTIONBeastie Boys, “Make Some Noise” (Director: Adam MCA Yauch)

BEST CHOREOGRAPHY
Beyoncé, “Run the World (Girls)”

BEST VISUAL EFFECTS
Katy Perry featuring Kanye West, “E.T.”

BEST ART DIRECTION
Adele, “Rolling in the Deep”

BEST EDITING
Adele, “Rolling in the Deep”

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY
Adele, “Rolling in the Deep”

SRC Reading Challenge

2011-08-16T11:54:00.001-07:00

At the beginning of the Summer Readinb Club, I challenged whoever joined to read 350 books in the 6 weeks. Well, 143 of you read over 700 books. So, as promised, here's my pink hair:

End of Summer Party - Tour of 94.3/98.3/103.1/1100AM Radio Station

2011-08-12T11:52:00.000-07:00

I just came back from the end of Summer Reading Party and I wanted to share how it was. Eight girls joined me for delicious pizza at Bellagio's Pizza. After we filled up, we walked across the Airport Plaza Shopping Center for a radio station tour. There are four stations that operate out of this Plaza.

94.3 (94X), 98.3 (KJOY), 103.1 (B103), and 1100 AM all are aired out of this one building. The Promotions Manager Frank gave us a full tour of the stations, including a peek into a studio to see exactly how a radio station was run. We learned about the many jobs one can have working in a radio station and got to see all the offices and studios. It was a great tour and I want to thank Frank for having us and showing us around.

YALSA Teen Read Week Photo Contest

2011-08-09T08:03:00.001-07:00

YALSA's challenging teens to create a photo version of their favorite books, and they could win a prize pack from Penguin or an e-reader preloaded with teen books! Entries will be judged by Jay Asher, 2011 Teen Read Week spokesperson. Any teen, or group of teens up to three, can enter the contest now through Oct. 31:

Select a YA book
Come up with a creative image expressing the book's title and ensure it meets the contest guidelines (PDF)
Upload the photo or illustration to Flickr and tag it TRWcontest11
Enter as many times as you'd like!

Five finalists will have their photos featured on the YALSA website and win a prize pack from Penguin Books for Young Readers that include signed copies of Jay Asher’s 13 Reasons Why as well as Jay Asher & Carolyn Mackler’s The Future of Us. A winner will receive an e-reader preloaded with teen titles and will be featured on YALSA's blog and in a press release.

Teen Choice Award Winners 2011

2011-08-08T15:49:00.000-07:00

The 2011 Teen Choice Award aired on Sunday night. Her are some of the winners:

MOVIES

Choice Drama: Black Swan

Choice Comedy: "Bad Teacher"

Choice Romantic Comedy: "Easy A"

Choice Horror/Thriller: "Paranormal Activity 2"

Choice Action Adventure Movie: "Fast Five"

Choice Sci-Fi/Fantasy Movie: "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2"

Choice Villain: Tom Felton, "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1"

Choice Liplock: Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson, "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1"

Choice Hissy Fit: Ed Helms, "The Hangover Part II."

TELEVISION

Choice Drama: "Gossip Girl"

Choice Comedy: "Glee"

Choice Action Series: "NCIS: Los Angeles"

Choice Actress, Action: Linda Hunt, "NCIS: Los Angeles"

Choice Sci-Fi/Fantasy: "The Vampire Diaries"

Choice Animated Show: "The Simpsons"

Choice Reality Show: "Jersey Shore"

Choice Reality Competition Show: "American Idol"

Choice Breakout Show: "The Vampire Diaries"

MUSIC

Choice Female Artist: Taylor Swift

Choice Male Artist: Justin Bieber

Choice Group: Selena Gomez and The Scene

Choice Rock Group: Paramore

Choice Rap/Hip-Hop Artist: Eminem

Choice Country Group: Lady Antebellum

Choice Country Artist, Male: Keith Urban

Choice Country Artist, Female: Taylor Swift

SUMMER

Choice Movie: "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2"

Choice TV Show: "Pretty Little Liars"

FASHION

Choice Male Hottie: Justin Bieber

Choice Female Hottie: Selena Gomez

Choice Red Carpet Icon, Female: Taylor Swift

Choice Red Carpet Icon, Male: Zac Efron

MISCELLANEOUS

Choice Twit: Justin Bieber

Choice Web Star: Rebecca Black

Choice Comedian: Ellen DeGeneres

Choice Athlete, Male: Shaun White (Snowboarding/Skateboarding/Surfing)

Choice Athlete, Female: Shawn Johnson (Gymnastics)

Pottermore

2011-08-03T13:30:00.000-07:00

When J.K.Rowling’s new website launched a few weeks back, the press release promised that a limited number of fans would be granted early access to the site.

Pottermore isn’t due to launch until October, but a contest was started on Sunday to let people win that early access.

The contest is called Find The Magic Quill, and it’s fairly simple. A new trivia question will be posted every day this week on Pottermore, and the first few who find the answer and append it to the website address quill.pottermore.com/ will get a chance to sign up for Pottermore.

The triva questions are posted once a day but they’re not posted at the same time everyday.

Check out the site now: Pottermore

Teen Choice Awards Voting

2011-08-01T08:25:00.000-07:00

Voting is still open, so be sure to voice your choice and vote. You can vote once a day per category and you can vote for your favorite nominees until Friday, August 5th.

Here's the link: Teen Choice Awards

Eisner Awards Announced

2011-07-25T08:51:00.000-07:00

The Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards, commonly shortened to the Eisner Awards, and sometimes referred to as the Oscar Awards of the Comics Industry, are prizes given for creative achievement in American comic books. The winners were recently announced at this year's Comic-Con in San Diego. here are some of the winners:

Best Single Issue (or One-Shot)
Hellboy: Double Feature of Evil, by Mike Mignola and Richard Corben (Dark Ho

Best Continuing Series
Chew, by John Layman and Rob Guillory (Image)

Best New Series
American Vampire, by Scott Snyder, Stephen King, and Rafael Albuquerque (Vertigo/DC)

Best Publication for Kids
Tiny Titans, by Art Baltazar and Franco (DC)

Best Publication for Teens
Smile, by Raina Telgemeier (Scholastic Graphix)

Best Humor Publication
I Thought You Would Be Funnier, by Shannon Wheeler (BOOM!)

Best Anthology
Mouse Guard: Legends of the Guard, edited by Paul Morrissey and David Petersen (Archaia)

Best Digital Comic
Abominable Charles Christopher, by Karl Kerschl, www.abominable.cc

Best Reality-Based Work
It Was the War of the Trenches, by Jacques Tardi (Fantagraphics)

Best Graphic Album—New
Return of the Dapper Men, by Jim McCann and Janet Lee (Archaia)
Wilson, by Daniel Clowes (Drawn & Quarterly)

Best Graphic Album—Reprint
Wednesday Comics, edited by Mark Chiarello (DC)

Best Adaptation from Another Work
The Marvelous Land of Oz, by L. Frank Baum, adapted by Eric Shanower and Skottie Young (Marvel)

Best Writer
Joe Hill, Lock & Key (IDW)

Best Writer/Artist
Darwyn Cooke, Richard Stark's Parker: The Outfit (IDW)

Amazing Spider-Man First Look!

2011-07-21T07:55:00.001-07:00

http://www.sonypictures.com/previews/movies/theamazingspiderman/clips/3638/

What do you think?

Reading Challenge Count

2011-07-18T06:58:00.001-07:00

The count as of today is: 241!

Read 109 more books and you've won the challenge!

Invention of Hugo Cabret Movie Trailer

2011-07-16T09:36:00.000-07:00

The trailer for the movie Hugo Cabret was just released. Check it out:

Emmy Nominations

2011-07-14T08:27:00.000-07:00

The 2011 Primetime Emmy Nominations were recently announced. Here are some of the Nominees:

Drama Series: "Boardwalk Empire," "Dexter," "Friday Night Lights," "Game of Thrones," "The Good Wife," "Mad Men."

Comedy Series: "The Big Bang Theory," "Glee," "Modern Family," "The Office," "Parks and Recreation," "30 Rock,"

Miniseries or Made-for-TV Movie: "Cinema Verite," "Downton Abbey (Masterpiece)," "The Kennedys," "Mildred Pierce," "The Pillars of the Earth," "Too Big to Fail,"

Actor, Drama Series: Steve Buscemi, "Boardwalk Empire," Michael C. Hall, "Dexter," Kyle Chandler, "Friday Night Lights," Hugh Laurie, "House," Timothy Olyphant, "Justified," Jon Hamm, "Mad Men,"

Actress, Drama Series: Connie Britton, "Friday Night Lights," Julianna Margulies, "The Good Wife," Kathy Bates, "Harry's Law," Mireille Enos, "The Killing," Mariska Hargitay, "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," Elisabeth Moss, "Mad Men."

Supporting Actor, Drama Series: Peter Dinklage, "Game of Thrones," Josh Charles, "The Good Wife," Alan Cumming, "The Good Wife," Walton Goggins, "Justified," John Slattery, "Mad Men," Andre Braugher, "Men of a Certain Age."

Supporting Actress, Drama Series: Kelly Macdonald, "Boardwalk Empire," Archie Panjabi, "The Good Wife," Christine Baranski, "The Good Wife," Margo Martindale, "Justified," Michelle Forbes, "The Killing," Christina Hendricks, "Mad Men."

Actor, Comedy Series: Jim Parsons, "The Big Bang Theory," Johnny Galecki, "The Big Bang Theory," Matt LeBlanc, "Episodes," Louis C.K., "Louie," Steve Carell, "The Office," Alec Baldwin, "30 Rock."

Actress, Comedy Series: Laura Linney, "The Big C," Melissa McCarthy, "Mike & Molly," Edie Falco, "Nurse Jackie," Amy Poehler, "Parks and Recreation," Martha Plimpton, "Raising Hope," Tina Fey, "30 Rock."

Supporting Actor, Comedy Series: Chris Colfer, "Glee," Jesse Tyler Ferguson, "Modern Family," Ed O'Neill, "Modern Family," Eric Stonestreet, "Modern Family," Ty Burrell, "Modern Family," Jon Cryer, "Two and a Half Men,"

Supporting Actress, Comedy Series: Jane Lynch, "Glee," Betty White, "Hot in Cleveland," Julie Bowen, "Modern Family," Sofia Vergara, "Modern Family," Kristen Wiig, "Saturday Night Live," Jane Krakowski, "30 Rock,"

Reality Program: "Antiques Roadshow," "Deadliest Catch," "Hoarders," "Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List," "MythBusters," "Undercover Boss,"

Reality-Competition Program: "The Amazing Race," "American Idol," "Dancing With the Stars," "Project Runway," "So You Think You Can Dance," "Top Chef,"

Variety, Music or Comedy Series: "The Colbert Report," "Conan," "The Daily Show With Jon Stewart," "Late Night With Jimmy Fallon," "Real Time With Bill Maher," "Saturday Night Live."

Children's Program: "A Child's Garden of Poetry," "Degrassi, My Body Is a Cage, Part 2," "iCarly, iGot a Hot Room," "Victorious, Freak The Freak Out," "Wizards of Waverly Place, Wizards Vs. Angels,"

My Reading Challenge

2011-07-11T09:20:00.000-07:00

If you haven't joined the Summer Reading Club yet, you still can!

I am challenging you all to read this Summer. If you read 350 books in the six weeks of Summer Reading, I will dye my hair pink for two weeks!

As of today, the numberof books you've read is: 105!

You are well on your way to meeting my challenge!!!!

Teen Choice Award Nominees

2011-06-30T13:45:00.000-07:00

The Teen Choice Award Nominees were recently announced. Here they are in case you missed it:

Choice Music: Male ArtistJustin Bieber
Jason Derülo
Cee Lo Green
Enrique Iglesias
Bruno Mars

Choice Music: Female ArtistAdele
Lady Gaga
Katy Perry
Rihanna
Taylor Swift

Choice Music: GroupBlack Eyed Peas
Far East Movement
“Glee” Cast
Selena Gomez & The Scene
The Script

Choice Music: R&B/Hip-Hop ArtistEminem
Lupe Fiasco
Nicki Minaj
Pitbull
Kanye West

Choice Music: Rock Group30 Seconds to Mars
Foo Fighters
Linkin Park
OneRepublic
Paramore

Choice Music: Rock Track“Rope,” Foo Fighters
“Waiting for the End,” Linkin Park
“Sing,” My Chemical Romance
“Good Life,” OneRepublic
“Monster,” Paramore

Choice Music: R&B/Hip-Hop Track“Run the World (Girls),” Beyoncé
“Just Can’t Get Enough,” The Black Eyed Peas
“Don’t Wanna Go Home,” Jason Derülo
“I Need a Doctor,” Dr. Dre featuring Eminem and Skylar Grey
“All of the Lights,” Kanye West

Choice Music: Single“The Time (Dirty Bit),” The Black Eyed Peas
“Who Says,” Selena Gomez & The Scene
“Born This Way,” Lady Gaga
“Firework,” Katy Perry
“Give Me Everything,” Pitbull featuring Ne-Yo

Choice Music: Male Country ArtistJason Aldean
Luke Bryan
Brad Paisley
Blake Shelton
Keith Urban

Choice Music: Female Country ArtistMiranda Lambert
Jennette McCurdy
Kellie Pickler
Taylor Swift
Carrie Underwood

Choice Music: Country Single“If I Die Young,” The Band Perry
“Country Girl (Shake It for Me),” Luke Bryan
“Just a Kiss,” Lady Antebellum
“Honey Bee,” Blake Shelton
“Mean,” Taylor swift

Choice Music: Country GroupLady Antebellum
The Band Perry
Rascal Flatts
Steel Magnolia
Little Big Town

Choice Music: Love Song“Come Down with Love,” Allstar Weekend
“Love You Like a Love Song,” Selena Gomez & The Scene
“Just the Way You Are,” Bruno Mars
“Teenage Dream,” Katy Perry
“Mine,” Taylor Swift

Choice Break-Up Song“Rolling in the Deep,” Adele
“Forget You,” Cee Lo Green
“See No More,” Joe Jonas
“Grenade,” Bruno Mars
“Back to December,” Taylor Swift

Choice TV Show: DramaBones
Gossip Girl
House
Make It or Break It
The Secret Life of the American Teenager

Choice TV Actor: DramaPenn Badgley, Gossip Girl
David Boreanaz, Bones
Chace Crawford, Gossip Girl
Daren Kagasoff, The Secret Life of the American Teenager
Hugh Laurie, House

Choice TV Actress: DramaEmily Deschanel, Bones
Blake Lively, Gossip Girl
Josie Loren, Make It or Break It
Olivia Wilde, House
Shailene Woodley, The Secret Life of the American Teenager

Choice TV Show: Fantasy/Sci-FiFringe
Smallville
Supernatural
Teen Wolf
The Vampire Diaries

Choice TV Actor: Fantasy/Sci-FiJoshua Jackson, Fringe
Jared Padalecki, Supernatural
Ian Somerhalder, The Vampire Diaries
Tom Welling, Smallville
Paul Wesley, The Vampire Diaries

Choice TV Actress: Fantasy/Sci-FiNina Dobrev, The Vampire Diaries
Erica Durance, Smallville
Anna Paquin, True Blood
Crystal Reed, Teen Wolf
Anna Torv, Fringe

Choice TV Show: ActionBurn Notice
Chuck
Hawaii Five-O
NCIS: Los Angeles
Nikita

Choice TV Actor: ActionJeffrey Donovan, Burn Notice
Daniel Dae Kim, Hawaii Five-O
Zachary Levi, Chuck
LL Cool J, NCIS: Los Angeles
Shane West, Nikita

Choice TV Actress: ActionLyndsy Fonseca, Nikita
Linda Hunt, NCIS: Los Angeles
Grace Park, Hawaii Five-O
Maggie Q, Nikita
Yvonne Strahovski, Chuck

Choice TV Show: ComedyThe Big Bang Theory
Glee
iCarly
Modern Family
Wizards of Waverly Place

Choice TV Actor: ComedyTy Burrell, Modern Family
Steve Carell, The Office
John Krasinski, The Office
Cory Monteith, Glee
Jim Parsons, The Big Bang Theory

Choice TV Actress: ComedyMiranda Cosgrove, iCarly
Kaley Cuoco, The Big Bang Theory
Miley Cyrus, Hannah Montana
Selena Gomez, Wizards of Waverly Place
Demi Lovato, Sonny with a Chance

Choice TV: Animated ShowAmerican Dad
Bob’s Burgers
The Cleveland Show
Family Guy
The Simpsons

Choice TV: PersonalityChristina Aguilera, The Voice
Tyra Banks, America’s Next Top Model
Adam Levine, The Voice
Jennifer Lopez, American Idol
Ryan Seacrest, American Idol

Choice TV: Reality Competition ShowAmerican Idol
America’s Best Dance Crew
So You Think You Can Dance
The Voice
Wipeout

Choice TV: Reality ShowJersey Shore
Khloe & Lamar
Kourtney & Kim Take New York
The Real World: Las Vegas
Secret Millionaire

Choice TV: Male Reality/Variety StarPaul “Pauly D” Del Vecchio, Jersey Shore
Rob Dyrdek, Fantasy Factory
Lamar Odom, Khloe & Lamar
Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino, Jersey Shore
Brad Womack, The Bachelor

Choice TV: Female Reality/Variety StarLaurieann Gibson, The Dance Scene
Chelsea Handler, After Lately
The Kardashians, Keeping Up with the Kardashians
Audrina Patridge, Audrina
Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi, Jersey Shore

Choice TV: VillainJustin Bieber, CSI
Jane Lynch, Glee
Seth MacFarlane (as Stewie Griffin), Family Guy
Joseph Morgan, The Vampire Diaries
Ed Westwick, Gossip Girl

Choice TV: Female Scene StealerDianna Agron, Glee
Katerina Graham, The Vampire Diaries
Jennette McCurdy, iCarly
Amber Riley, Glee
Sofia Vergara, Modern Family

Choice TV: Male Scene StealerChris Colfer, Glee
Rico Rodriguez, Modern Family
Mark Salling, Glee
Eric Stonestreet, Modern Family
Michael Trevino, The Vampire Diaries

The awards air on August 7. See who wins then!

Transformers Contest & Promotion

2011-06-21T10:54:00.000-07:00

Draw & Create your own Transformer for a chance to win a poster & t-shirt

Deadline is THIS Friday, June 24.

Drop your creation at the Children's Desk.

Come to the library on the 24th at 3:45 pm when a representative from paramount Pictures will be here to promote Transformers 3: Dark of the Moon.

Sparked - Microvolunteering

2011-06-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

Sparked is the world's first microvolunteering network.

WHY MICROVOLUNTEERING?

At Sparked, it's our goal to offer *convenient* online volunteerism to you. We're driven to fit volunteerism into the same kind of time that you might normally spend on Facebook, Farmville, or Twitter. It's volunteerism for the digital age. We call it microvolunteering.

WHAT'S IN IT FOR VOLUNTEERS?

Sparked makes it easy for busy people to give back. It's an entirely *online* form of volunteering that allows you to lend your professional skills whenever and wherever you have time. Whether you've got 10 minutes at the bus stop or an hour after work - we've got a nonprofit "challenge" for you. Get started!

E3 Conference

2011-06-17T09:05:00.000-07:00

It's a bit late, but her's some info I've found about the recent E3 Conference:

Sony's new portable PlayStation Vita game system offers unique and new features for a mobile game console that will take some getting used to. But once you get acquainted with the PlayStation Vita unique hardware and play games optimized for the console the game play is awesome.

The successor to the PlayStation Portable looked promising -- a lush display, potent hardware, and a $250 price tag cemented its place as serious potential competition in the portable gaming space.

The PlayStation Vita is a bit larger than expected. Taller than the PlayStation Portable it's replacing, the Vita is packing a 5-inch OLED screen, serving up bright, gorgeous color. On to the features: there's a gyroscope, a microphone, an accelerometer, a pair of cameras, two analog thumbsticks, a touchscreen, and a touch pad on the rear. It was a bit disorienting at first -- holding the device, and tapping its rear end to interact with objects on the screen. But the rear touchpad is a novel idea -- handy for playing touch-enabled games, as you don't have to deal with your hands blocking all of the action.
____________________________

Nintendo's latest entertainment system, the Wii U, marries a muscular console with an innovative, tablet-like controller. And if the earliest demonstrations are any indication, the U will make a popular addition to the living room.Early attention has focused on the controller, whose 6.2-inch touch- screen was responsible for many of the jaws that dropped in the audience during its unveiling. The first gasps came during a video in which a player set the tablet controller on the floor in front of a television screen showing a golf course. The player swung as if the tablet controller were a tee, which sent a virtual golf ball hurtling through the air on the TV. The seamless communication between the controller's display and the TV, and the possibilities it opens up, are central to the U's appeal. The system combines traditional video-game buttons and directional sticks with gesture and motion controls, and does it in a way that won't overwhelm casual players.Nintendo has finally caught up to Microsoft and Sony on the visual front, developing a console capable of delivering graphics at 1080p.

Teen Blog Take Two

2011-06-09T07:41:00.000-07:00

Due to some accidental deletions of e-mail, our former blog has disappeared and as of now, there's a slim chance of it getting retrieved. Trust me, I am more upset about it than you guys are! I wanted to let you know the new address and I'll be posted some fun stuff from the E3 Conference soon!