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An Ocean Away By Konnie Guo Edited by Cynthia Brian

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Teenagers form a large community all around the world. In China, it is no exception. Last summer, I visited Shanghai, China, where I had the wonderful opportunity to find out what the life of a Chinese teen is like. San Francisco and Shanghai are separated by over 6,000 miles, so while teenagers in both areas have drastic differences, they also share surprising similarities.

Every high school student stresses out about getting into the right college, and in China, the pressure is even greater. The college application process is highly competitive, requiring dedication, diligence, and determination. For most teens, their college acceptance rests on a single exam: the National College Entrance Examination, or “gao kao.” Once they have received their results, students must apply to only three schools to which they send their scores. According to nineteen-year-old Chinese student Wei Shen, “I was very worried that I would not score high enough on the exam to get into the college I wanted.” Luckily, Shen did extremely well and is currently studying to become an airplane engineer.

Additionally, in mainland China (not including Taiwan or Hong Kong), major websites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube are banned. While it is still a common sight to see teenagers toting around their iPhones, they have to resort to other forms of social media and entertainment.

Moraga teen Yurika Kazama explains, “Facebook is used so ubiquitously nowadays that it has practically become a form of communication.” Luckily for Kazama, if she were ever to visit China, she would find plenty of alternatives. For example, the app WeChat is becoming increasingly popular as a method of communication, acting as a substitute to its American counterpart, Facebook messenger.

Chinese teens are undoubtedly miles apart from those in California , both figuratively and literally. However, there is a trait that makes every teenager in the world connected to each other—we’re teens! So, while we might take apart and examine all the differences of living in China, the undeniable bond of simply being a teenager makes us just one step closer to one another.

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Konnie Guo is a high school senior where she is a member of Club BTSYA. She is an avid reader, and during her spare time, enjoys playing the piano and doing volunteer work.  Read the article at Lamorinda Weekly.  
As the editor and teen coach for Teen Scene for the newspaper, Cynthia Brian has had the opportunity to work with talented teens with attitude and opinions. She shares selected published works. To read numerous articles shepherded by Cynthia Be The Star You Are. Cynthia Brian also produces Express Yourself!™ on Voice America Kids Network heard Tuesdays NOON PT at  or for photos, descriptions, links, and more.
Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio is produced by Cynthia Brian of Starstyle® Productions, llc as an outreach program of Be the Star You Are!® charity. For information on being a guest email info@BetheStarYouAre.org. To make a tax-deductible donation to keep this positive youth programming broadcasting weekly to international audiences. Thanks for supporting teens!

Volunteer, Caie Kelley, wins Lions California Student Speaker Contest Semi-Final Round By Cynthia Brian

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Caie Kelley

An active volunteer with Be the Star You Are!® non profit and host of Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio, Caie Kelley has already garnered $11,000 in scholarship money by winning five rounds in the Lions Club speaking competition. With her topic “Community Service-What Does it Mean and Why Does it Matter?”, Caie advances to the finals in Pasadena, California where she will be vying for another $10,000 in prize money. As an active volunteer of Be the Star You Are!® charity in Moraga, California, Caie is an officer and founding member of Club BTSYA at her high school, is the What’s Poppin’ reporter and host on Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio, and is a frequent contributor to Teen Scene in the Lamorinda Weekly Newspaper. Founder and Executive Director of Be the Star You Are!®, Cynthia Brian, offered her congratulations and said, “Caie deserves the accolades she receives as she is a “can do” individual who is always ready to volunteer and reach out to the community.

We are all very proud of her achievements and I am honored to have worked with her throughout her high school years. She is a winner!” In her free time, she enjoys swimming competitively playing piano, and participating in public speaking. She also coaches for her swim team, teaches piano lessons, and tutors at the local elementary schools. In the fall, Caie will be attending Harvard University.  Read more about the article HERE!

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Welcome to radio’s popular power hour of positive, uplifting, life-changing talk, Starstyle®-Be the Star You Are!® with hosts Cynthia Brian and Heather Brittany. You were not created equal. You are something far better. You are unique! This educational and entertaining radio program prepares you to star in your own life while igniting the flame that is already inside you. In the T42 Health Matters segment, the Mother/Daughter Goddess Gals offer tips for healthy living spanning the generations. In other segments, Cynthia gabs with gurus, interviewing authors and success-perts that inform and amuse. She reads every book and asks the questions to get the answers you want to hear. Define your vision, discover your passion, and design your future in this power packed party hour. Explore your potential and embrace your possibilities. Smile, have fun, and celebrate YOU! Lend us your ears, turn up the volume and enjoy a FREE personal success coaching session compliments of Starstyle.®

The Twenty First Century Diary By Youngjoo Ahn

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The Twenty First Century Diary By Youngjoo Ahn

youngjoo ahnThe 21st century is the Age of Technology with the rapid developments in communication. With programs like Skype, Google Hangouts, VSee, and Facetime, long distance face-to-face conversation is possible for anyone in the world connected via the internet. One of the byproducts of this “Age” is blogging.

Blogging is almost like a virtual diary that can be shared with everyone. Some blogs focus on one specific subject and have a niche following. There are many blogs dedicated to fashion, food, book reviews, traveling, dating, teens, and everything imaginable.
The most alluring aspect to blogging is sharing. How fantastic it is to know that a stranger in the Netherlands is reading your blog and struggling with your very same issues! A blog allows people from all over the globe to connect and learn about one another. Many people also use blogs as an outlet for opinions, rants, and random thoughts.
“Blogging is really fun. It consumes my life in a good way. I’m always thinking of new things to try from blogs I read and what I’m going to say in my blog.  I’m constantly looking for different subjects to blog about,” Miramonte senior Dashia Kwok said. “Blogging has helped me form opinions about topics that I probably wouldn’t have considered otherwise.”
Gaining followers and readers is not as easy as it seems. Overnight popularity is almost impossible and should not be expected. A blog, like any other hobby, takes time, patience, and care. The best way to gain readers is through excellent writing. It’s important to actually sit down and write something special, carefully editing for grammar and spelling. With so many blogs in the blogosphere, quality matters. Pictures and social media are additional power tools to enhance your blog.
The rewards of blogging are limitless. Blogging can be an online journal or a private twenty first century diary. I enjoy looking back on old posts and remembering what I was feeling at that time. It’s also gratifying to learn that others are intrigued with my thoughts.
For me, the most impressive reward with blogging is that I own a small slice of the Internet community. Blogging can boost your business and your career, but for me, and many of my Lamorinda friends, the best part is that my posts are personal keepsakes that we’ll treasure forever.
Youngjoo Ahn is a junior at Miramonte High School. In her free time she hosts Express Yourself teen radio, volunteers teaching Korean, and blogs.  Read the actual article here.

Listen to the program at the Voice America Network also Listen at Starstyle® Be the Star You Are!® Radio

 Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio is produced by Cynthia Brian of Starstyle® Productions, llc as an outreach program of Be the Star You Are!® charity. For information on being a guest email info@BetheStarYouAre.org. To make a tax-deductible donation to keep this positive youth programming broadcasting weekly to international audiences, visit the website and Click here to Donate.    Thanks for supporting teens!

As the editor and teen coach for Teen Scene for the newspaper, Cynthia Brian has had the opportunity to work with talented teens with attitude and opinions. She shares selected published works. Read numerous articles shepherded by Cynthia. Cynthia Brian also produces Express Yourself!™ on Voiceamerica Kids Network heard Tuesdays NOON PT and click here for photos, descriptions, links, and more.

More information about the show click here.

The Psyche of Psychics

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The Psyche of Psychics

The Psyche of Psychics, By Jane Fessenden

Edited by Cynthia Brian

janefessenden

Jane Fessenden, a senior at Miramonte High School, loves to play soccer and work at the local Head Start facility. She is currently playing for the Lamorinda Soccer Club and working on her Girl Scout Gold Award. She is the reporter for Nerd Word on Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio.

In 1997, J.K. Rowling published “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” – known in this country as “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” – a book about magic and wizardry that captured millions of people’s imaginations. “Harry Potter, books and movies, is awesome! I literally buy everything wizard,” local teen Sarah M. exclaimed. However, this fascination with the paranormal has been around for centuries, and the latest “Twilight” movie is not recent phenomena.

Since the beginning, man has believed that supernatural is in some way real. The excitement of ghosts and telekinesis has been used for profit by industry, through books, television and film, to make millions of dollars. Though there is no viable evidence for any paranormal claims, the industry continues to grow. Are we falling for a huge psychic scam?

Since 1854, the Ouija board, marked with letters and numbers that “communicate” with spirits, has sold over 20 million sets. “I always pull out the Ouija board for game night,” says the McDonald family, one of thousands who have a Ouija board in their home. Hundreds claim that spirit boards join the user and the dead by connecting to an inner channel within people. “Everyone is always so pumped to play the Ouija board! It’s pretty spooky when you get an answer and nobody says they moved it,” says Orinda student Claire R. Though, another line of thought is that the user is consciously or subconsciously controlling the reading device. Even more simply, the power of suggestion.

From bending spoons to telepathy, psychics have used trickery and illusion to perform supernatural activities. Some psychics claim to be able to read one’s palm to foretell the future or the past. “I usually followed reading rules but to spice up sessions, I said fabricated things,” says Lamorinda mom Mrs. Gee, who once read palms at dances.

Ray Hyman, a psychologist, was once a professional palm reader who was dared one day to say the exact opposite of what the palm read. When Hyman did this with one client, the woman was so aghast at his accuracy that she didn’t say a word throughout the entire reading. Hyman now believes that “it doesn’t make a difference what you tell them, [it’s] more of what you convince them.”

Why do we ascribe to these paranormal systems? Perhaps because psychics offer a world of magic that uplifts us in our mundane lives. Though it could be legend, could there be otherworldly things amongst us here in Lamorinda?

Teen Scene is YOUR voice. If you have something to say or have writing skills and want to be part of our Teen Scene team, email our Teen Coach, Cynthia Brian.

As the editor and teen coach for Teen Scene for the newspaper, Cynthia Brian has had the opportunity to work with talented teens with attitude and opinions. She shares selected published works. Click here to read numerous articles shepherded by Cynthia. Cynthia Brian also produces Express Yourself!™ on Voice America Kids Network heard Tuesdays NOON PT .  For photos, descriptions, links, and more click here.

Click here for more information about the show.

Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio is produced by Cynthia Brian of Starstyle® Productions, llc as an outreach program of Be the Star You Are!® charity.  Read More about The Psyche of Psychics Here By Jane Fessenden 

THE APP RAP

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THE APP RAP

sleepbot

App: SleepBot by SleepBot LLC

For: iPhones and Android phones

Price: Free

There seems to be a smartphone app for nearly everything.  Therefore it should come as no surprise that there is an app that actually monitors your movement during sleeping .  It uses this data to ensure that your alarm wakes you during the optimal time of your sleep cycle. The developers of this app recommend that you place your phone next to your pillow when you go to bed.  SleepBot uses movement tracking to monitor your movements while you sleep, allowing it to distinguish between REM (deep sleep) and lighter sleep (non-REM). The science of sleep tells us that if you are awakened during a non-REM sleep cycle stage, you will feel much more rested then if you are awakened during REM sleep.  You set your wake-up time, and SleepBot’s alarm will wake you during a 30 minute window (no later than your set time) when it determines that you are in your lightest sleep phase.  This app is not a gimmick, as both the United States National Institute of Health and the National Academy of Engineering awarded SleepBot the First Place Winner of the “Go Viral To Improve Health” competition.  There are many more features that come with this app, but the optimal wake-up is the primary feature. Try SleepBot.  You may get awakened a little earlier than your set time, but you will wake up feeling more refreshed and ready to meet the day.

By Eric Pawlakos

Eric is a sophomore at UC Davis, majoring in statistics. He is a member of the UC Davis rugby team, a reporter on Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio, and enjoys playing guitar and exercising.

Read : https://www.lamorindaweekly.com/archive/issue0717/THE-APP-RAP.html

As the editor and teen coach for Teen Scene for the newspaper, Cynthia Brian has had the opportunity to work with talented teens with attitude and opinions. She shares selected published works. To read numerous articles shepherded by Cynthia, visit www.BTSYA.com. Cynthia Brian also produces Express Yourself!™ on Voice America Kids Network heard Tuesdays NOON PT at http://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2014/express-yourself or for photos, descriptions, links, and more visit http://www.ExpressYourselfTeenRadio.com
More information about the show at http://www.btsya.com/express_yourself_radio_show.html
Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio is produced by Cynthia Brian of Starstyle® Productions, llc as an outreach program of Be the Star You Are!® charity. For information on being a guest email Katherine@BetheStarYouAre.org. To make a tax-deductible donation to keep this positive youth programming broadcasting weekly to international audiences, visit http://www.bethestaryouare.org/donate.htm. Thanks for supporting teens!
://www.bethestaryouare.org/donate.htm. Thanks for supporting teens!

Are Teens Too Old to Trick or Treat? Two local teens offer differing opinions on the Halloween tradition

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Are Teens Too Old to Trick or Treat? Two local teens offer differing opinions on the Halloween tradition
trick-or-treating[1]
Two local teens offer differing opinions on the Halloween tradition.
Celebrate Halloween WITHOUT Trick or Treating
By Youngjoo Ahn
Now in my fourth year of high school, I’ve learned that life is always hectic. There are constantly more tests, volunteering opportunities, club meetings, and even school dances. This whirlwind of activity never seems to stop for a moment so that we can embrace the child within. Halloween is that one special day where everyone can let loose and celebrate silly fun.  There are many ways to enjoy Halloween without going through neighborhoods to find the most candy. Dressing up in costumes for school with friends creates memories to cherish, while teenage trick or treating should be taboo.
Many high school students view trick or treating as an opportunity to gather loads of free candy. Childhood trick or treating remains a fond memory in many of our minds, and should stay that way. Doing something just for the sake of hoarding candy detracts from the adventure.
“As a kid I loved trick or treating but now it just feels like something I’ve out grown.  I don’t want to tarnish all my cherished childhood memories of Halloween,” senior Evan McAvenia said.
“Parents buy candy because they enjoy seeing cute little kids in their costumes, and want to add to the fun of their Halloween. Little kids take Halloween much more seriously. They dream about their costumes weeks in advance. Adults appreciate that excitement,” junior Cece Andrews said.
When high school students take to the streets with paper bags or worse yet, pillowcases, they take away from the experience that little kids enjoy, “ Andrews added.
It’s a treat to have adorable little ones at your door, but it feels more like a trick when a band of teens knock.
For teens, I suggest celebrating Halloween without trick or treating. Why not dress up in a crazy costume and spend the evening handing out the candy to the children? Or get your friends together for a scary story circle or to watch frightening movies?
If getting lots of candy is the main motivator, pick up bagfuls for a pittance at the spectacular post Halloween candy sales. Leave trick or treating to the kiddies.
Youngjoo Ahn, a senior at Miramonte High School, is co president of Club Be the Star You Are and host of international teen radio Express Yourself. In her free times she enjoys to bake, write, and drink hot chocolate in the fall.
Halloween–A Trick or a Treat?
By Konnie Guo
Trick-or-treating is a timeless tradition that should be for all ages, not just little children. Teenagers are always told to grow up and get ready to be an adult. The pressure they constantly face leaves them with very few opportunities for fun. However, the end of October provides teens with a much welcome escape from their stressful lives.
Some teens enjoy going trick or treating simply to have a good time. It’s nice to get out and stop stressing about school and grades once in awhile. Chris Ramirez, a junior at Miramonte High, gave his input on this entertaining holiday: “I really enjoy being able to relax with a night out with my friends on Halloween. Plus, getting lots of candy is a bonus!” At a time when homework and extracurriculars begin to pile up, the festivities of Halloween allow for a welcome break.
Trick-or-treating can be used as an opportunity to help others. The Orinda Juniorettes Club is a local group of teenage girls who work together to do various acts of community service. This Halloween, they are planning to raise money for charity by participating in “Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF.” According to UNICEF’s website, this campaign has been going on for over sixty years. Instead of getting candy, the Juniorettes will go door-to-door asking for donations for their cause. Trick or treating is much more than a simple activity for children. Instead, it can be utilized as a great way to help those who are less fortunate. Sondra Abruzzo, president of the Juniorettes, explains, “Trick-or-treating is far more important than just getting free candy. Halloween is the perfect time to collect aid for those who need it the most.” Abruzzo’s compassionate stance on the importance of trick-or-treating takes the activity far beyond some trivial activity.
As Halloween rolls around, don’t dismiss it as being too juvenile. Trick-or-treating is an endearing activity with a purpose for everybody, whether it’s simply blowing off some steam or helping a greater cause. No matter how old or young someone is, one phrase is certain to be on the lips of many this Halloween: trick-or-treat!
Konnie Guo, a junior at Miramonte High School, is a member of Club Be the Star You Are!(r). She is an avid reader, and during her spare time, enjoys playing the piano and doing volunteer work.
Read at:

https://www.lamorindaweekly.com/archive/issue0717/Are-Teens-Too-Old-to-Trick-or-Treat-Two-local-teens-offer-differing-opinions-on-the-Halloween-tradition.html

As the editor and teen coach for Teen Scene for the newspaper, Cynthia Brian has had the opportunity to work with talented teens with attitude and opinions. She shares selected published works. To read numerous articles shepherded by Cynthia, visit www.BTSYA.com. Cynthia Brian also produces Express Yourself!™ on Voice America Kids Network heard Tuesdays NOON PT at http://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2014/express-yourself or for photos, descriptions, links, and more visit http://www.ExpressYourselfTeenRadio.com
More information about the show at http://www.btsya.com/express_yourself_radio_show.html
Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio is produced by Cynthia Brian of Starstyle® Productions, llc as an outreach program of Be the Star You Are!® charity. For information on being a guest email Katherine@BetheStarYouAre.org. To make a tax-deductible donation to keep this positive youth programming broadcasting weekly to international audiences, visit http://www.bethestaryouare.org/donate.htm. Thanks for supporting teens!
://www.bethestaryouare.org/donate.htm. Thanks for supporting teens!

Listen at Voice America Kids Network: http://www.voiceamerica.com/channel/261/voiceamerica-kids

Photos, descriptions, links, and more at Express Yourself!™: More information about the show click here Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio is produced by Cynthia Brian of Starstyle® Productions, llc as an outreach program of Be the Star You Are!® charity. For information on being a guest email Katherine@BetheStarYouAre.org. To make a tax-deductible donation to keep this positive youth programming broadcasting weekly to international audiences, visit http://www.bethestaryouare.org/donate.htm. Thanks for supporting teens! http://www.bethestaryouare.org/donate.htm. Thanks for supporting teens!

THE APP RAP-Postagram By Alex Pawlakos Edited by Cynthia Brian

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THE APP RAP-Postagram By Alex Pawlakos Edited by Cynthia Brian

postagram[1]

App:        Postagram by Sincerely.com  

For:         iPhones and Android phones

Price:       Free

        How many postcards did you send this summer? For that matter, how many postcards did you receive in the mail? These days, a lot of smartphone users take pictures with their phone and text them right to the recipient. However, many people still love to send (and receive) postcards through the mail, considering it to be more personal and thoughtful. Luckily, for those who still like postcards, Postagram is a fantastic app. With Postagram, you can easily send a postcard in the mail, directly from your phone. You can use a picture that you shoot directly from the app or take a picture out of your phone’s photo library. Your photos are then turned into personalized postcards that you mail directly from your phone. The cost is 99 cents for mailing in the U.S. mailing or $1.99 for international mailing. This is a very popular app and users are sending personalized postcards for thank-you cards, invitations, birthday cards, travel postcards, birth announcements and more. You can include a message up to 140 characters, and the postcards are printed on thick, glossy photo card stock with high resolution. In addition, the postcard is personalized with the sender’s profile photo. Another handy feature is that the 3×3 inch photo can be popped-out of the postcard to be framed, put in your wallet, or added to scrapbooks. Thanks to Postagram, it is so simple to mail a personalized postcard to anyone, anywhere, anytime.

Alex Pawlakos enjoys biking, weightlifting, and tutoring in his spare time. He is a reporter on the Be the Star You Are!® Express Yourself!™Teen Radio and an economics major at UC Berkeley.

Read at https://www.lamorindaweekly.com/archive/issue0715/THE-APP-RAP.html

As the editor and teen coach for Teen Scene for the newspaper, Cynthia Brian has had the opportunity to work with talented teens with attitude and opinions. She shares selected published works. To read numerous articles shepherded by Cynthia, visit www.BTSYA.com. Cynthia Brian also produces Express Yourself!™ on Voice America Kids Network heard Tuesdays NOON PT at http://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2014/express-yourself or for photos, descriptions, links, and more visit http://www.ExpressYourselfTeenRadio.com 

More information about the show at http://www.btsya.com/express_yourself_radio_show.html

Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio is produced by Cynthia Brian of Starstyle® Productions, llc as an outreach program of Be the Star You Are!® charity. For information on being a guest email Katherine@BetheStarYouAre.org. To make a tax-deductible donation to keep this positive youth programming broadcasting weekly to international audiences, visit http://www.bethestaryouare.org/donate.htm. Thanks for supporting teens!

://www.bethestaryouare.org/donate.htm. Thanks for supporting teens!

 

©2013

Cynthia Brian
The Goddess Gardener
I am available as a speaker, designer, and consultant.  
Cynthia will answer one or more questions every other issue as space allows. Email your comments or questions to Cynthia@GoddessGardener.com 
 
Cynthia Brian is the producer and host of StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!® heard LIVE every Wednesday on the Voice America Empowerment Channel from 4-5pm PT at . More information is available at http://www.StarStyleRadio.com

Music Makes the World Go Round By Konnie Guo

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Music Makes the World Go Round By Konnie Guo

music

Edited by Cynthia Brian

Music is a constant presence found practically everywhere. While some of us are content to simply enjoy listening to music, others are dedicated to making music an integral part of their lives. Lamorinda is fortunate enough to have many talented young musicians. Even though it’s summer vacation, many are still working hard making the music that they love. 

Kelvin G, a clarinetist who studies at Miramonte High School just returned from a three week intensive music camp. He was part of the Stanford Youth Orchestra, which provided an opportunity for gifted young musicians all across the world to gather and play together. In the three weeks that they were there, the entire orchestra had to learn several different pieces and be able to perform them in a concert held at the end of each week. Despite the heavy workload, the orchestra was able to make every concert professional and a success. “Being around and working together with people my own age made it a really fun and educational experience. Although we had to practice rigorously, it was all worth it in the end. I was able to make many new friends who all share my passion in music.” 

Moraga teen and enthusiastic pianist Yurika Kazama also devoted part of her summer to music. She participated in a chamber music program by the San Francisco Conservatory of Music called Summer Music West. In the program, young musicians were assigned groups to perform in ensembles. Though students received the music beforehand, they had just ten days at the Conservatory to get to know each other, rehearse, and polish their pieces to make them performance-ready. Coaches worked with the students, making sure that they were practicing efficiently and effectively. Kazama explains, “We played in groups of three or four, which meant that everyone had to do their best, since a single mistake could really stand out. I learned so much in just a week and a half. The coaches were really helpful, and I now appreciate music even more. I only wish it had lasted longer!” 

Music can really bring the world together. As a pianist myself, I know how much work and practice it takes to make just a few notes perfect. It makes it all the more admirable that these two Lamorinda teens would give up their time to learning more about music. As summer draws to an end and the school year is about to begin, keep this in mind: the best way to succeed is to practice. After all, practice makes perfect!

Konnie Guo, a junior at Miramonte High School, is a member of Club Be the Star You Are!®. She is an avid reader, and during her spare time, enjoys playing the piano and doing volunteer work. 

As the editor and teen coach for Teen Scene for the newspaper, Cynthia Brian has had the opportunity to work with talented teens with attitude and opinions. She shares selected published works. To read numerous articles shepherded by Cynthia, visit www.BTSYA.com. Cynthia Brian also produces Express Yourself!™ on Voice America Kids Network heard Tuesdays NOON PT at  or for photos, descriptions, links, and more visit http://www.ExpressYourselfTeenRadio.com 

 

Read at LaMorinda Weekly

Unplugging BY Linda Lan Phung

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Unplugging BY Linda Lan Phung

unplugging

Edited by Cynthia Brian 

It is everywhere, with its never-ending presence and its own city, Silicon Valley, to call home.  Yes, I’m talking about technology, one of the most popular methods for people to stay connected and keep informed with the latest information, including news and personal updates. 
The new term for these people is “Generation C” in which the “C” stands for “connected.”  There is no specific age group as being part of Generation C is defined more by a specific trait – tech-addicted.  As a necessity, technology is used as a way to connect, but it has also become an obsession with many young adults dependent on it every minute. 
 
However, that is not the case with rising senior Annie Weber. 
 
Being imaginative, Weber took a break from technology as a present for her father’s birthday. Recounting the event, Weber says, “Going without technology was hard and nerve wracking because I was bored and tempted to listen to my IPod.” To divert her thoughts, she played Scrabble, watched a movie, and ate dinner for the remainder of the night, a total of five hours.
“This idea is an especially good birthday present for those parents who don’t like using technology,” Weber enthusiastically adds. “My parents praised me for being so thoughtful.”
 
Campolindo student Claire Gratz is the exact opposite.  Though she does not willingly leave her technology, she will busy herself with other activities when she has to turn off the TV or computer.  “I will play volleyball, but that lasts for only one hour,” jokes Gratz. 
By unplugging once in awhile we can avail ourselves of opportunities to explore new places and experiences.  Without a phone in tow, Senior Connor Campi kayaked on the Elkhorn Slough, an estuary in Monterey County.  Campi learned something new. “It was amazing to find out from the tour guide that these harbor seals can delay their pregnancy.” 
 
With our current lifestyles, it may seem difficult to suddenly detach from our gadgets.  Nonetheless, when we take small breaks and slowly challenge ourselves to pause more frequently, we may find joy in spending our time more creatively.  Just like Campi, when we brave life without technology for a even a short time period, we may just discover surprising facts about this world that surrounds us.
Linda Lan Phung, a Miramonte High School junior who volunteers throughout the East Bay, is an officer with Club Be the Star You Are!®, and strives for 17-second miracles, inspired by author Jason Wright. 

https://www.lamorindaweekly.com/archive/issue0711/Unplugging.html

As the editor and teen coach for Teen Scene for the newspaper, Cynthia Brian has had the opportunity to work with talented teens with attitude and opinions. She shares selected published works. To read numerous articles shepherded by Cynthia, visitwww.BTSYA.com. Cynthia Brian also produces Express Yourself!™ on Voice America Kids Network heard Tuesdays NOON PTat http://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2014/express-yourself or for photos, descriptions, links, and more visit http://www.ExpressYourselfTeenRadio.com 

 

THE APP RAP: TripAdvisor By Eric Pawlakos

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THE APP RAP: TripAdvisor By Eric Pawlakos

TripAdvisor

Edited by Cynthia Brian

space.gif App: TripAdvisor by TripAdvisor LLC
space.gif For: iPhones and Android phones
space.gif Price: Free
space.gifThe rapid growth of social media has really been a blessing to anyone who likes to go out and explore different places. This is due to the ease of accessing the reviews and opinions of others. There is no doubt that when you are looking for someplace new to experience, it is really helpful to know what other people have to say about a particular place. And, if you want the app that has the most extensive and useful reviews, TripAdvisor is simply indispensable. Wherever you are, this app helps you access over 100 million user reviews, opinions, and photos to find the best hotels, the best restaurants, and fun and interesting things to do. It also helps you to find flights and compare airfare. Use the ‘Near Me Now’ feature to instantly find out what is close to any address that you enter. This feature will list all nearby hotels, nearby restaurants and nearby things to do, including detailed information, price range, and the type of establishment. The best feature, of course, is the ability to read the numerous reviews and opinions of other travelers to help you make your decision. You will learn the good, the bad, and the ugly and with practice will be able to know which reviews are the most accurate and applicable to you. If you like to travel, whether close to home or in foreign lands, immediately downloading the TripAdvisor app to your smartphone is a wise decision.
 

Alex Pawlakos enjoys biking, weightlifting, and tutoring in his spare time. He is a reporter on Express Yourself!™) Teen Radio.

As the editor and teen coach for Teen Scene for the newspaper, Cynthia Brian has had the opportunity to work with talented teens with attitude and opinions. She shares selected published works. To read numerous articles shepherded by Cynthia, visit www.BTSYA.com. Cynthia Brian also produces Express Yourself!™ on Voice America Kids Network heard Tuesdays NOON PT at http://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2014/express-yourself or for photos, descriptions, links, and more visit http://www.ExpressYourselfTeenRadio.com 
 

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