TEEN CENTRAL

TEEN POETRY CONTEST 2007 WINNERS

2007-05-15T22:39:00.000-07:00

The Teen Advisors Guild of the Library Company of Burlington is happy to announce the winners of this year’s teen poetry contest held to celebrate National Poetry Month (April). In Division 1 (Grades 7-8), the winners are Terria Wright of Willingboro, NJ 1st place for her poem, “If I Could Only Soar,” Haley Gannon of Willingboro 2nd place for her Untitled poem, and Shannon Tucker of Palmyra, 3rd place for her poem “Fantasy.” Wright and Gannon are students of St. Paul’s School in Burlington, while Tucker is from St. Mary’s Hall-Doane Academy. In Division 2 (Grades 9-12), the winners are Kyla O. Somerville of Willingboro for her poem “Memoirs” (First Place), Eliza Vincz of Edgewater Park for her poem “I Can’t Remember What the Title of This Poem Was” (Second Place) and Robert Finch of Moorestown for his poem “Sadness” (Third Place). Somerville and Finch are students at St. Mary’s Hall-Doane Academy, and Vincz is a student at Villa Victoria Academy.

Winners will receive Borders gift cards: $25 for the first place winners, $15 for the second place winners and $10 for the third place winners. The winning poems will be published in the online literary magazine called “TheSpaceBetween” at http://21bc.wordpress.com

2006-11-12T22:40:00.000-08:00

SWEET READS! --a success. And look, new faces in the crew.

See you in 2007!

2006 CALENDAR OF ACTIVITIES

2006-10-12T10:34:00.000-07:00

Young Writers’ Circle
(ages 13-19)
Every third Friday of the month
6:30pm-8:00pm
October 20th, November 17th
No meeting in December
Refreshments will be served. (Yay, pizza! Thank you to Francesco's in Burlington.)

SWEET READS
Pirates invade the library but instead of looting, we will be giving away books and candy to Halloween trick-or-treaters
October 31st , Tuesday
6:00 -8:00pm
TEEN VOLUNTEERS WELCOME (sign up starts beginning of October)

WE LIKE (Newsletter)
Book, music, movie and game reviews welcome.
300 words max
E-mail. tag_burlington@yahoo.com
http://teenadvisorsguild.blogspot.com

HOLIDAY ISSUE DEADLINE: November 20th
WINTER ISSUE DEADLINE: January 20th, 2007
SPRING ISSUE DEADLINE: March 20th 2007
SUMMER ISSUE DEADLINE: May 20th 2007

WRITE ON!

2006-04-20T19:42:00.000-07:00

We will have TWO (!) writing meetings this month in honor of April being National Poetry Month.

April 21st, Friday, 6:30pm TEEN WRITING CIRCLE
April 28th, Friday, 6:30pm Meet A REAL LIVE Newspaper EDITOR!

As usual, yummy pizza will be served. FREE!!!

WE LIKE!

2006-03-25T21:16:00.000-08:00

WE LIKE is our official newsletter. In this issue : Jess rants on Paris Hilton-wannabes, Taylor and Christy rave about books they like. (And you would too – come on, give reading a try – we are a Library Teen group, y’know.) You can watch the movie versions later.

RANT
Jess On: Young Ladies

A few days ago I was running rather late for school. Nothing new. I was looking for a certain shirt I love to wear. It's black and a tiny bit tight, but when layered with a cute hoodie it looks so fetch! Haha. Well I couldn't find it. No biggie. I threw on another shirt, also black, and left for school thinking my shirt was in the dryer.

The day after our big storm, my school like others had a 2 hour delay. So I had to time to get ready. So did my two younger sisters. I was looking very my age (15!)-- eye liner, pink shirt, jeans, brown jacket and a very large scarf. My 12 year old sister walked down stairs in tight jeans. With a heck of a lot of make-up, blueish green, and.....get this....my shirt! My kinda tight black shirt. She was in my shirt. The shirt that I thought I had LOST to the dryer monster that usually steals socks, don’t act like you don't know what I mean! I yelled at her and told her not to take it again. But all day it bugged me...

When I was 12 years old I always wanted to wear make-up and show off my chest even though in reality there was NOTHING there. But my mom had more control over what I was wearing. Ok no biggie. Again it wasn't a big deal. But what bothered me was that even after my mom told my little sister to wash SOME of the make-up off she said it oddly. Some of the make-up. SOME. Not all of it. Some. I wasn't allowed to wear make-up at all really until the 7th grade. Ok so she's in 6th. But she's still little.

This made me think of the way she dresses always, and how other young girls dress these days. Like, excuse my somewhat bad language, small skinny ho@!*#&s. Okay, well not my sister because for the most part she dresses fine. I think, ehem, young ladies should dress nice! Not showing off their non existent chest and their invisa-booty!

I really do adore my sister and her friends. They are really important to me. I worry a lot about them.......and the way they act.

Jess's final thought: If young girls want to act like older girls then let’s do this on a slightly less extreme scale. Let young girls experiment with the term "less is more" with natural tones for make-up. Also when it comes to clothing, if they want to dress older instead of having them shop in the kids section, have them buy tee shirts in an extra small or small in the juniors section. Having a shirt from the big girls section might make that much of a difference even if they have the same shirt in the kids section. ***

REVIEWS

The Chronicles Of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
By C.S. Lewis
Review by Christy Hullings

This wonderful book, created by the ingenious C.S. Lewis, tells a tale of four siblings, Lucy, Peter, Edmund and Susan. While staying at the Professor's home during World War II, they are lucky enough to discover a new, magical world, Narnia, in the back of a wardrobe. It is here that they endure many inside and outside battles that could change Narnia and their lives forever.
The first time I read this book was about three years ago and since then, I've read it several more times. I can't pinpoint one specific thing that keeps me coming back to this book; it's more a mixture of things. Your basic good-versus-evil plot is the foundation for the story, yet it's the mixture of unique characters, mythical creatures and an enchanting environment that make it a story all its own. There is also an abundance of description in this book. C.S. Lewis has a phenomenal way of writing sights and sounds that are so in-depth and so vivid that you can almost feel like you're there. All of these components (and many more) are sewn together to create this marvelous story.
I would recommend this book to be read by anyone and everyone. C.S. Lewis had originally written 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe' to be a children's book, but it contains such important messages and such an outstanding story that it should be enjoyed by all ages.
Also, I want to encourage people to see the new movie, 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe'. After seeing this movie myself, I am pleased to say that they followed the book very accurately, which sometimes isn't done and can ruin a story. The actors, the setting and the graphics were as enjoyable as the story and made it worthwhile to see. **

Memoirs of a Geisha
Book Review
By Taylor Cook

Arthur Golden's flowery prose and overuse of similies is probably enough to drive at least ten percent of prospective Memoirs of a Geisha readers off after the first chapter, but, if you make it through that trial, you're in for a treat. This book is one of the most enjoyable, interesting, and evocative reads I've experienced in a long time. I've read over fifty books this year, and this one easily makes my top ten list, and, at the moment, is one of my favorites of all time. The story of a young Japanese girl from a fishing village sold to a geisha okiya, or house, in Kyoto, Memoirs is a beautiful and gripping tale that spins gorgeous images of the elaborate kimono, elegant ceremonies, and breathtaking dance sequences that were everyday parts of a geisha's life.
Chiyo, separated from her sister for the chance at the glamorous life of a geisha, is initially angry about this and refuses to take part in it, wanting only to escape and rejoin her sister. This view, however, is changed after a chance meeting with the handsome and generous Chairman of the Iwamura Electric Company. Desparate to see him again, and convinced that she loves him, Chiyo strives to regain respect in the eyes of the okiya's proprietor, Mother Nitta. There are two other residents of the Nitta okiya -- Hatsumomo, a short but beautiful and popular geisha; and Pumpkin, a girl in training with Chiyo. Pumpkin completes her training before Chiyo is able to and Hatsumomo takes the girl under her wing because she must, but Chiyo is offered the tutelage of the most highly-regarded geisha in all Miyago. Mameha makes it her personal mission to see Chiyo become the most successful geisha as payback to Hatsumomo, who is a horrible, nasty woman. Chiyo's name is changed to Sayuri, and that is the spark that sets off the transformation of her into Miyago's most celebrated geisha. A compelling, beautiful novel from beginning to end, the only thing to describe this book is memorable. **

Things we like right now.
Naruto, Something Corporate (ok, well some of us like certain songs, Gilmore Girls and coffee, always, coffee. WHAT DO YOU LIKE?

Thanks Dominos

2006-03-25T21:10:00.000-08:00

The Teen Writing Circle meets every third Friday of the month. Here are the girls hard at work last month. Next month's meeting is on April 21st, 6:30-8:00pm

Our pizza comes courtesy of Domino's on High Street. Thank you Ms. Bonnie!!!

FASHION AND POETRY

2006-02-07T21:12:00.000-08:00

Join your fellow young designers as they chat over magazines and sketches, pizza and coffee on Friday, February 10th at 6:30.

And on February 17th, join us for an ANTI-VALENTINE'S DAY POETRY JAM. Write or read your own poetry or share your faves by someone else. It's at 6:30 too. RSVP. 609-386-1273

JANUARY EVENTS at the LIBRARY

2006-01-16T22:05:00.000-08:00

Every third Friday of the month, TAG presents the Writers’ Circle from 6:30-8:00pm. Writing exercises and peer discussions led by Teen Facilitator and author Marcie Taylor. Refreshments are served. Writers’ Circle will meet on January 20th, February 17th, March 17th, April 21st and May 19th.

Japanese animation fans, ages 13-16, are invited to view and discuss anime on the last Thursday of every month for “After-school Anime” from 3:30-5:00pm. Popcorn and Pocky are served. Bring some manga to share and swap too. After-school Anime dates fall on January 26th, February 23rd, March 30th, April 27th, and May 26th.

All events are free of charge. To register, please call 609-386-1273 or e-mail tag_burlington[at]yahoo.com, or drop by the library at 23 W. Union St. Burlington City, NJ.

NOVEMBER EVENTS

2005-11-08T21:11:00.000-08:00

Nov. 14th Monday - Anime After-school, showing Escaflowne. Die-hard Anime fans, new fans, curious onlookers are invited to view Escaflowne and munch on some popcorn and pocky 330-500pm.

Nov. 18th Friday - Writing Workshop 6:30-8:00pm Free Writing Exercises, roundtable discussions, pizza!

Nov. 30th Wednesday - Tea at Hogwarts 3:30-5:00 okay well, it's tea at the library... a chance to get to know what TAG is all about, and discuss all things Harry. Tea and fairycakes (that's what the English call cupcakes) will be served.

SWEET SUCCESS

2005-11-03T20:02:00.000-08:00

On Halloween, TAG Officers (fr. left) Sara, Karen, Christy, Jess and Taylor gave out books and candy in front of the Library to trick-or-treaters. The event dubbed "Sweet Reads" was such a hit, we had to refill the candy bowls thrice and stack the book rack a couple of times too! Nearly a hundred kids dropped by -- ok, so maybe some kids thought the Library was a haunted house but whatever...

It was so much fun!

OCTOBER EVENTS

2005-10-14T07:02:00.000-07:00

The Library Co. of Burlington’s Teen Advisors Guild (TAG) presents two special events this October. Gather round an indoor campfire and join in a writing session, share spooky tales and meet new friends on October 21st, Friday from 7-8:30pm. Light refreshments will be served. To register, please call 609-386-1273 or e-mail tag_burlington[at]yahoo.com, or drop by the library at 23 W. Union St. Burlington City, NJ.

On Halloween, October 31st, "Sweet Reads" is underway with the TAG officers handing out books and candy to trick or treaters from 6pm-8pm. They will also be on hand to talk to teens who are interested in joining the group.

The Library is also accepting entries to its 1st Annual Photo Contest that runs till November 23rd. Teen photographers are asked to submit photos (using any camera format) interpreting the theme “Urban Daydreams.” At stake are $50 for first prize, $30 for second prize and $20 for third prize.

For more information on Teen Events at the Library Company of Burlington, visit http://teenadvisorsguild.blogspot.com or e-mail tag_burlington[at]yahoo.com

PICTURE THIS!

2005-10-03T21:00:00.000-07:00

LIBRARY COMPANY PRESENTS PHOTO CONTEST FOR TEENS

Burlington City-- “Where the past is our present to you.” While our city’s history is definitely rich and interesting, it’s time to look towards our future. With this in mind, we invite all teens attending Burlington City and Township schools (13 -19 years old) to participate in the 1st Annual Library Company of Burlington Photo Contest for Teens organized by the library’s very own Teen Advisory Guild (TAG). Cash prizes at stake!!!

CONTEST RULES:
WHO: The competition is open to all Burlington City and Township school students, ages 13-19 years old. Your entry to the contest constitutes your agreement to allow your photographs to be published or used on Web sites owned by the Library Company of Burlington and used in connection with limited promotional use. Entrants retain all other rights to future use of their photographs.
WHAT: We are looking for striking images interpreting the theme “Urban Daydreams.” Use your imagination, look around you, and shoot! Digital or darkroom altered photographs must be labeled as such. Criteria for judging includes originality, technical excellence, composition, and overall impact.
WHEN: Entrants may submit photographs/prints at the Library Co. of Burlington or through regular mail from Sept.23-Nov.23, 2005
HOW: A total of as many as five photos may be submitted; send together in one package. Entries must be either color prints, black and white prints,or digital prints. Prints may be mounted, but print and/or mount size must be no larger than 11x14 inches.
Each photograph must bear the photographer's name, address, phone number, e-mail address, school and grade, and entry number (1 through 5). Repeat this information one time on a separate, single sheet of paper; add the focal length of lens used for each photo; type of film; special equipment, if any; and a brief description of where, when and how the photograph was taken.
WHERE: Send entries to TAG Photo Contest, 23 West Union Street, Burlington City, NJ 08016 Tel. no. 6093861273 or drop by the library.
Finalists’ photos will be on display at the library. Prizes will be awarded to the top three photographers. For more information, visit the Library Company of Burlington, 23 W. Union Street, Burlington City, NJ 08016, tel. no. 6093861273. The Library Company of Burlington is the oldest library in continuous operation since 1757. It serves all Burlington City and Township residents.

TAG -- you're it!

2005-10-03T20:09:00.000-07:00

This is the official blog of Teen Central and the Library Company of Burlington's Teen Advisors Guild. On this space I shall post our bi-monthly newsletter, so creatively (!) called -- The Review as well as photos of our events.

Last September we had a Digital Photography Workshop conducted by photographer Jim Sutton. We also launched our first annual Photo Contest. More on that later.

Meanwhile, enjoy these pix from our most recent event.

> Here's the class from Sept.23rd, from left, TAG president Sara, Eliza, Amy, Jarmaz, teacher Jim and TJ. The other TAG officers were away at a field hockey game.

> >Cool Equipment.

>"According to Jim..."