Issue One
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* And by “soon,” I mean Spring 2011- that’s next month, y’all…
Coming Soon*…
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Magazines
The December/January Issues
The December/January Issues
Okay, so, I know I’ve been away for a minute, and maybe it’s just me, but I’m just really not all that excited about any of the (mainstream) winter issues this time around, like, really not. Maybe because they are double issues, I was expecting more. Maybe because I’m a winter baby I was hoping for the best, but, in the words of the song, I don’t think we’re gonna make it. Perhaps it’s just the previews I’m seeing online (I know I said that I was going to start subscribing and such, but really, I can’t see spending good money on publications I simply don’t really believe in. I know, I’m sounding very much like a Grinch right now, but I’ve let my many magazine subscriptions lapse over the past few months. I’m just not inspired, so I’m redirecting my energy and (meager financial) resources. But, here goes a little something.
New Youth Connections
New Youth Connections is starting things off with its “I *Heart* Tech” cover story. Hey! Not bad work if you can get it, or a bad field to pursue if you’re into it. I’m actually seeing a lot of really interesting articles here, among them:
“Off the Grid: Teens Give Up Their Gadgets”– Teen writers go without their Ipods,cell phones, Facebook and internet
Seriously? I’m interested to see how THAT turned out.
“Books Byte the Dust”– A school library gets rid of its books
Say WHAT now? I can’t say that I’m a fan of this, for several reasons but it’s sure to be an interesting read.
“Pirate or Pioneer?” – My daily downloads are illegal- for now
This is in no way an admisison of guilt, but I’m sure many can relate. I see you “anonymous.”
“Dream Tech Jobs” – A tech-drive hobby could become your full-time job
Turning hobbies into full-time jobs? Yesssir. Yes ma’am…You know I’m all about that. Teaching entrepreneurship at a young age? Absolutely.
“Is Sexting Sassy or Stupid?”
I mean, at this point, do we really need to ask? Seriously, and I say this with no judgement, trust me, but if you must (and might want to examine why you feel you must) keep it…PG-13. If you’ve ever watched an episode of Law & Order, read a gossip blog, or the news, you know that once it’s out there, it’ll be there…for your grandkids (and grandparents) to see. Just a thought.
There’s also a report on high school dropouts and some interesting family pieces.
For a full list of all the articles (and to read them online) check out the site.
Seventeen
So, as you can see, Miley Cyrus is the Seventeen cover girl this month. I feel a bit (more) out of the loop, because looking at this, I’m not sure why she’s on the cover (not saying that she’s undeserving. I have a 6 year old niece so I’ve seen my fair share of Hannah Montana, and I must say, chick is kind of nice with the show and the songs are catchier than a lil’ bit…“you get the best of both worlds, chill it out, take it slow, and then you rock out the show…” is my jam) but there she is, Seventeen-style. Here are a few (and I mean few) stories that caught my eye-
104 the truth about sex on tv The lies your favorite shows are telling you, plus how to feel good and be safe.
Now, I can get with this. December 1 was Global AIDS Awareness Day and honest talk about safer-sex practices and healthy sexuality always have a place in teen magazines, says me.
105 “i was sick, scared, and alone” Katie, 18, shares her swine-flu story to help you stay healthy!
Yes, you read that correctly. There’s an actual “true life” story of an 18-year-old girl who shares her swine flu misadventure…I know it’s not funny by I snickered a bit, after rolling my eyes. Seventeen is nothing, if not predictable. Btw…have you been vaccinated, yet? I know I’m one to talk, as I haven’t, but I’m not in a “high-risk” group, so I’m waiting my turn.
108 why guys dump girls they still like Real guys spill the top-5 reasons they bail. You’ll be surprised!
Now, Seventeen…really…what is this? Didn’t we already cover this in “He’s Just Not That Into You?” (Granted I didn’t read it or see the movie, but you know, I caught the cliff notes and I’m a believer in the message.) Speak the truth to the youth, don’t send them down the path to over-analyzation and reading between the lines when, as well all know, actions (no matter what the secret reasons behind them) speak volumes louder than words (even well-meaning, surprising ones).
There’s also an article entitled, “Invisible Attack: On p.142, how to protect yourself from bullies who can reach you 24/7.” Now if this is about what I think it is- cyber-bullying and/or stalking- than I’m all about that. Cyber-bullying is the epitome of b*!ch@ssness and, as we know from the news, can go downhill way too quickly.
For a full list of the articles in this episode, check out the break down at Seventeen.com.
Teen Vogue
Well looky here, Dakota Fanning is on the cover of Teen Vogue this winter. Again, not sure what project she has going on to warrant it, but I like her. I’ve seen her in a number of films, from way back when she was just a cute kid and I’ve consistently appreciated the acting skill. Nice to see the girl all grown up.
Now, I’m a little surprised at Teen Vogue. The past couple of months, I’ve been riding with them (not monetarily, but you know, supporting nonetheless) and this issue doesn’t seem to be bringing the same caliber of stories; however, here’s what we’ve got:
- 52 “All Together Now” We’ve introduced you to some amazing teen-started charities. Where are they now?
Love stories like this! It has it all- inspiration, taking action, realized dreams, and giving back to those who need it most. A definite “must read.”
- 71 “Fashion Blogger” Amidst a sea of front-row sameness, Jane Keltner searches for original thinkers.
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- Not sure what this is all about, but any article about “original thinkers” in fashion gets a second look from me.
- 75 “Talking Fashion” Party hopping with Young Hollywood … girl of the moment Tao Okamoto … trend spotting: animal prints.
- Now normally I breeze right over “girl of the moment” type stories because, well, they’re so predictable, but I have no clue who this chick is. I quick clicked on her and I’m interested enough to read more. Nice to see Asian girls/models getting some shine. I’m digging her hair cut and her style is not.
- Yeah…now I’m certainly not jumping on this “omg, she’s a thirteen year old blogger phenom” bandwagon, but you can’t hate on the girl for doing her thing at such a young age. I’d check and it out and see what’s really up with her.
- 128 “Dangerous Liaisons” More than a million teens are affected by STDs—yet unsafe sex is on the rise.
- Self-explanatory here. Know what you’re doing before you decide you’re ready to get it in, ladies. And, please, be as safe as possible (remembering that abstinence is always an option)
93 ” Super Fan” Thirteen-year-old blogger Tavi Gevinson plays dress up in Rodarte’s Target line.
150 “Fight Club” Name-calling, social isolation, rumor-spreading—when does bullying go too far?
Seventeen has a similar article on bullying, so you know I’m a fan of this kind of awareness. Now we’re all about sisterhood over here, but we’re also realists. You don’t have to like every other girl you meet, but there’s no rarely a need to be cruel. Seriously, save the energy. It’s so worth it.
For a full list of the articles in the December/January issues, check out the break down at Teen Vogue.com.
Girls Life
So, I have no idea who this is on the cover and that’s not such a bad thing, with all the recycling going on as of late. According to the site, this cover girl is Victoria Justice, an actress who stars as “the sweet sidekick on Zoey 101” on Nickelodeon and is getting her own show, called Victorious.
They have an article with New Mooner Taylor Lautner and aside from that, not much else I’d really check out. It’s usual fluffy Girl’s Life stuff- what clothes to wear, what makeup to pick, getting gifts for the low, how to eat right in the new year, horoscopes, and quizzes. Oh, but there is an article on shoplifting:
GL Special Report: Lifted
More teens than ever are turning to stealing as a way to get everything from jewelry to UGGs. But do you know the real consequences and dangers of shoplifting?
That’s SO not the business ladies…don’t do it.
Now what Girls’ Life does have that I suggest you check it, is tons of holiday giveaways! Check out the December calendar for details. And remember to come back in January for lots more. They are also giving away a Grand Prize spa trip at a Florida resort for one lucky reader and her mom.
Girl’s Life is also looking for a new blogger! Would you like to blog about your “health and fitness adventures?” Well, then GL could be looking for you! Here are the details:
“Write an essay explaining why you should be the next blogger babe. The essay should be 300 words or less, and should include some of your healthy goals and fave workouts.
Email your essay to g-life@girlslife.com by December 23rd to be considered. You must be between the ages of 10-17 to enter.”
Check out the website for more details.
Gabby Sidibe is Beyond Precious, She’s Confident & Proud
So…you all have heard about the upcoming movie Precious, right? It’s based on the book Push by Sapphire. Have any of you read it? If not…wow. I read it back in the day when I was probably far too young (I snuck and read a lot of books with very mature content back in day, though- tee hee) but I remember it and recently went home and found my original hardcover copy (ok. it was on my bookshelf, so ‘found’ is an exaggeration, but still). I’m thinking of re-reading it before the movie premieres on November 6, but it’s one of those books that troubles you to your soul- like Beloved by Toni Morrison…sometimes, you can only stand to read it once, anything else is kind of traumatic. To get a better idea of what I’m talking about, check out the trailer:
Riiight. Want a little more? Here’s a summary of the film from a recent New York Times Magazine cover story– “Graphic as the film is, it is less so than “Push,” the 1996 novel on which it is based. Written by an African-American poet and writer known as Sapphire, “Push” relied on intentionally misspelled, broken and slangy English to convey Precious’s sense of despair and rage. The novel mixes poems by Precious with sexually extreme scenes, like those in which she is forced to perform oral sex on her mother. It is almost relentlessly bleak: when Precious discovers she is H.I.V.-positive, she is certain of her imminent death. Daniels’s movie, by contrast, offers a greater sense of possibility. He doesn’t ignore her disease, hardships or struggles, but he also liberates her from them. Precious is a stand-in for anyone — black, white, male, female — who has ever been devalued or underestimated.”
Now, the movie is a definite must see…but I want to focus, for a moment on the title character, newcomer Gabourey “Gabby” Sidibe, a Brooklyn-born, Harlem raised homegirl who is getting.it.IN. And not just in the film. Looking at Gabby, I’m sure you assume something about her, if you’re honest. She’s dark-skinned and overweight, either of which is not generally considered desirable in our community (and you can define “our” any way you choose); the combination of both, definitely not. But don’t get your girl wrong, she’s not the shy, quiet, keep my head down and try to hide inside myself, invisible to boys chick that some may mistake her for. On the contrary, she, unlike many young girls clearly knows her worth and has self-confidence like no other. Don’t believe me? Check her out in the New York Magazine story.
“They try to paint the picture that I was this downtrodden, ugly girl who was unpopular in school and in life, and then I got this role and now I’m awesome,” says the actress. “But the truth is that I’ve been awesome, and then I got this role.”
‘Daniels, who saw hundreds of audition tapes from across the country (350-pound actresses don’t grow on trees), was blown away by Sidibe. “She is unequivocally comfortable in her body, in a very bizarre way. Either she’s in a state of denial or she’s so elevated that she’s on another level,” he says. “I had no doubt in my mind that she had four or five boyfriends, easily.”
“I learned to love myself, because I sleep with myself every night and I wake up with myself every morning, and if I don’t like myself, there’s no reason to even live the life. I love the way I look. I’m fine with it. And if my body changes, I’ll be fine with that.”
“And, of course, Gabourey Sidibe is more likely to bitch-slap a boy than the reverse. Is she still juggling four or five boyfriends? “Yes, but I don’t want to get serious enough to call them boyfriends,” she says. “This one guy, I’ve deleted his number. I would text him at 7 p.m., and he’d be like, ‘I’m at BBQ’s.’ But the thing is, you don’t go to BBQ’s with your boys, you go with a girl. Then he’d call me at eleven. I’m like, ‘Why don’t you call me at six when you’re ready to go to BBQ’s?’ ” Her voice quickens with a touch of rage. “Don’t, don’t, don’t! I’m not a regular girl. I just got off a plane from France. You need to check yourself.”
WHAT?! How can you not LOVE this chick?! Want some more? Well, you can check girlie out on the COVER (say word!) of The New York Times Magazine.
Now THAT’S really a bIg deal. The story’s kind of long, but here’s a (relevant) little taste.
“Unlike Precious, Sidibe is well spoken and cheerful. “I’m not her,” Sidibe said emphatically. “But, when I was 14 or 15, I saw myself in a different way. Back then, I envied a life that I’d made up in my mind. I broke free of that unhappiness and I decided to change — I was going to be happy with myself. No matter what I look like, no matter what people think.”
May we all be so lucky…so support her on November 6th, y’all! I know I will be.
Help G.E.M.S. End Child Sexual Exploitation
In the previous post, we talked a little bit about Child Sexual Exploitation, around the U.S. and right here in NYC. Here is some additional information on the NY-based organization Girls Educational and Mentoring Services (GEMS) and what YOU can do to learn more an get involved.
“Girls Educational & Mentoring Services (GEMS) is the only organization in New York State specifically designed to serve girls and young women who have experienced commercial sexual exploitation and domestic trafficking. GEMS was founded in 1999 by Rachel Lloyd, a young woman who had been sexually exploited as a teenager. GEMS has helped hundreds of young women and girls, ages 12-21, who have experienced commercial sexual exploitation and domestic trafficking to exit the commercial sex industry and to develop to their full potential. GEMS provides young women with empathetic, consistent support and viable opportunities for positive change.” Source
Know the Facts
- 2,200 children are estimated to be victimized by commercial sexual exploitation each year in New York City alone (OCFS Prevalence Study 2007).
- 325,ooo are estimated to be at risk for commercial sexual exploitation annually in the United States (Estes and Wiener, 2001).
- A 2001 University of Pennsylvania study states “Child commercial sexual exploitation is the most hidden form of child abuse in the Unites States and North America today” (Estes and Wiener, 2001).
- The majority of victimized youth have run away from home, or were running away from a foster care home, juvenile detention center or group home (Estes and Wiener, 2001).
- 70-90% of commercially sexually exploited children have a history of child sexual abuse (Murphy, 1993).
- 1.6 million children run away from home each year in the United States (NISMART). Source
Watch the Film (Trailer)
And read the survivor stories.
What Can You do TODAY Help End the Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children?
- When you see examples of pimp culture glorified in the media, music or movies, acknowledge this kind of societal acceptance adds to the program by not buying those products, albums or movie tickets.
- Change your language around the issue and encourage those around you to do the same. Instead of saying “teen or child prostitute,” recognize them as legitimate victims by calling them “commercially sexually exploited children and youth.”
- Join the FB page.
Adults:
- Be active in the lives of young people you know. Attention, interest, support and love at home will keep children from running away to find it.
- Volunteer your time to GEMS or other youth-centers programs in your community.
- Donate to GEMS and support them.
Who Can You Contact For Help?
GEMS (here in New York City): 212-926-8089
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC): 1-800-THE-LOST/ 1-800-843-5678
National Runaway Switchboard: 1-800-RUNAWAY/ 1-800-786-2929
National Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888
Rape, Abuse, Incest National Network (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE/ 1-800-656- 4673
To find organizations that offer help in your state (if not NYC), GEMS offers many additional resources here.
The November Issues
Hey girls! It’s that time again…Here are the November issues of your favorite only mainstream teen magazines…(don’t worry, we’re working diligently on ours- it’s coming…soon!)
Teen Vogue
The folks over at Teen Vogue are at it again! This time teen supermodels Jourdan Dunn and Chanel Iman get some face time on.the.cover. Yesss!!! Now, as I wrote in a previous blog, there was a wee bit of controversy over the pregnant Jourdan Dunn appearing on the cover. Whatever you may think about that, we’re glad to see them on it. In the article they discuss the industry, their success, lives and relationship with each other. Check it out.
Notable articles:
Class Act: Nineteen-year-old Marie Mason held fund-raising dinner parties to finance a free school in Cambodia.
The Real World: Graduates are facing a shrinking job market. Teen Vogue reports on ways to beat the odds.
Slim Shady: Diet pills may seem like a quick fix, but the risks are heavy.
For all my aspiring fashion editors- there’s an article entitled The Graduates, about former Teen Vogue interns who’ve landed dream jobs in fashion. I’m sure there’s some helpful-ish advice and inspiration there. (Basically, use your connections. If you don’t have any, intern at Teen Vogue and get some.)
For all my fashion bloggers (and aspirings)- there’s an article entitled Big Shots, about bloggers who are making a name for themselves in the fashion world. Lesson learned- start something and you, too, can be getting it in!
There’s also a piece on Zoe Kravtiz, entitled Rock Princess, about her charmed life as daughter of Lenny of Lisa Bonet, her film and music career (?) and her foray into…beauty.
And a piece entitled Ink Heart about the serious responsibilities of getting a tattoo.
There’s also the usual fashion, what to wear, how to dress stuff…
You can go here for a complete table of contents.
Seventeen
And, over at Seventeen, Kristen Stewart holds he cover girl honors. Apparently, this is part of a series of interviews with the New Moon cast (Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner, and the new kids on the block) as well as some behind-the-scenes dirt to get you ready to see the movie (as if we need more reasons). Oh, they are also offering free tickets to see it, so you might want to check that out if you want to save your what is it now? $8 or so…
The Health+Sex+Fitness section has an article, Sneaky stuff in your food, on what’s hiding in your food- sugar, salt and fat- that you might want to check out. There’s also a quiz on depression, Is it just a bad mood…or more? and advice on how and where to get help if you need it.
There’s also an article Stop Bullying Now! on Demo Lovato’s mission to stop…what else? Bullying. It’s definitely a problem, so I’m all about finding solutions that help keep you safe.
And, as always, there’s the usual make-up make-up make-up, what to wear to look really good for your size on the low, horoscope, crazy ish that happened to me stuff as well. Here’s a complete list of what’s in the mag.
Have at it ladies!
The October Issues
Hey all! So the magazine world likes to do things months in advance. So the October issue comes out in September and the editors are most likely already working on the February issue. I’m a little behind, but I was waiting to get more information on the Girl’s Life Oct. issue. So, if you have not seen them, here are
The October Issues
The September/October 2009 issue of New Youth Communications (NYC) Teen Magazine focuses on food- what you choose to eat and what’s inside what you’re eating. Good idea. There’s an interview with the man responsible for NYC public school food, articles on: a farm in the city, obesity in the country, trying to be a vegetarian in a family that eats meat, why bad food is good, two very NY-centric pieces on healthy options from the bodega and why they’re aren’t more healthy options in them (something I’ve wondered myself), and food movie reviews. Sounds good. So check it out- articles written by NYC teens and available for free online.
There’s also a writing contest question- How do you think technology will change in the next 30 years? How will it affect our lives and behavior? Describe the typical day of a New York City teen in 2039.
There are three cash prizes: First Prize $150; Second Prize $75; Third Prize $50
You must be 14-19 to enter. The deadline is October 26, 2009. Submit entries here.
Good luck!
The Fall 2009 issue of Represent is about Art: “Making it,” and “How Art Transforms Us.” There are articles in this issue on writing, alter egos, dancing, fashion, music, Broadway musicals, arts therapy and (my fav) misogyny in hip hop. There’s also a book review and a comic. Good ish.
There is a reader survey you can complete and maybe even win some money. Fill it out here and they will pick three names at random for cash prizes. First name drawn $100, Second name drawn $50, Third name drawn $25. The survey should take less than 10 minutes, so complete it by the December 1st deadline.
Represent also has a writing contest question-Imagine President Obama has chosen you to be his top adviser on foster care reform (improving the system). Write him a letter describing the three most important things that should be done to make foster care better, and why. Good one; that’s deep.
There are three cash prizes: First Prize $150; Second Prize $75; Third Prize $50. The deadline is November 1, 2009. Submit entries here.
Good luck, chicas!
Teen Vogue has that warewolf dude from Twilight on the cover. Ok, ok. His name is Taylor Lautner, not warewolf dude (although that is the first thing I thought when I saw the cover). And I’m sure he’s a great guy (we’re talking about Jacob in the movie, not Taylor in real life although I’m sure he’s plenty nice, too) but…I’m still team Edward. Yeah, I said it.
On to the October issue. I must say that I’m impressed with Teen Vogue, in general. I wrote them off sometime last year (or the one before) and just let my subscription die in a fit a rage. But this issue actually has more than one article I’m excited to read. And can I add that I see more diversity in this magazine (in both ads and editorial content) than I do in most others. (mini hand clap)
I’m checking for:
“Breaking the Mold”- Plus-sized model Crystal Renn discusses finding happiness with her body personally and professionally after starving herself as a teen and struggling with an eating disorder. I like this chick. She should write something for us.
KeKe Palmer in the “Leaders of the Pack” young Hollywood feature…Hmm…I’m not sure how official that list is, but Keke is is a fave so I’m glad to see her on there. They also did a piece on her last month in Style Blogger- great look.
“Little Miss Perfect”- Examines what we give up trying to be such good girls all the time. (Sidebar-When I first saw the cover line I was like, are you serious? I’ve had that article idea for ages! Don’t you hate it when that happens? You see someone implement an idea that you had and didn’t pursue? Or you did pursue and didn’t get too far with? Well, lesson learned…Act on your ideas or don’t get tight when someone else does.)
“Character Development”- Condola Rashad, 22 year-old-daughter of the actress, beauty, everymom Phylicia Rashad, is finally getting some face time and print space. I love it! Good job, Teen Vogue, very good job. I’m definitely checking for her.
AND they actually have an article on Debt! (seriously). How very…apropos…and responsible of them.
I’d say check it out (for free at the library, like I did, if nothing else).
Oh Seventeen…is it just me? Or does this cover never change? I guess you go with what works. The cover girl is Whitney Port, whom you may know from the MTV show “The Hills” or her current show “The City.” Can’t say I’m a fan- maybe I need to up my tv watching, although I am really loath to do that. Anyway, there’s an article in here on girls who are changing the world and making a difference (p. 154) and that sounds totally inspiring. Other than that, it’s usual Seventeen stuff- clothes, boys, advice, makeup, quizzes. There is a piece in the Heath+Sex+Fitness section on loving the breasts you have (yay!) and a piece in the Dating section on having a hot Halloween. See the website for details.
Now, Girl’s Life publishes two issues at a time, so this is the October and November issue for them. The cover girl is Kay Panabaker of the movie Fame, fame. She’s a newcomer (or at least not that popular yet) so it could be interesting. At the very least it’s not someone you’ve read about a million times already. There really isn’t anything in this issue I’m interested in reading. But there is an article on managing your hectic schedule which could be helpful-
GL Life: Under Pressure?
Tons of To Do’s have you frazzled? How to manage your hectic schedule while still keeping your sanity in check.
Lots of articles on what to wear, clothing and quizzes if you’re in to that sort of thing. Go to the website for more details on this issue. GL is giving away some things though and tis the season to get free stuff, so have at it:
WIN a wardrobe for winter
Warm up with cozy-cute coats and furrific boots. We’re givin’ away must-have winter essentials all through October. Our GRAND PRIZE? One stylin’ fashionista scores a WHOLE winter wardrobe from Pink Cookie. CLICK HERE to download the October’s Clothes 4 Chilly Chicas Giveaway Calendar now!
Win a DS and a Wii
From snappin’ shots with digi cams to pluggin’ in your tunes with an iPod Touch, this November we’ve got awesome hi-tech freebies. Plus! One gamer girl gets the ultimate prize pack with Wii console, DS console and the entire new line of Charm Girls Club video games from EA. CLICK HERE to download the November’s Totally Tech Giveaway Calendar!
Good luck with that! Be back soon with more on November!
What’s in a Name?
When I first decided to do the whole magazine thing, followed by the whole blog thing, the first thing I knew I needed (besides a kick ass idea) was a really great name. And that was a lot harder than it may seem.
I looked at the names of some other teen publications that I read- from the most basic, like Teen (is that still around?) and Seventeen; to the junior women’s mags, like CosmoGIRL! (r.i.p), Elle Girl (r.i.p), and Teen Vogue; including the “niche” (read: ethnic) mags like, Young Sisters and Brothers (r.i.p.) and QuinceGirl (which, admittedly, I’ve never read).
Teen Magazine (still around, who knew?)
CosmoGIRL! (r.i.p.)
Elle Girl (r.i.p.)
YSB (r.i.p.)
And I thought, eh…nothing really snazzy about any of them. They get the point across that they are magazines for teens, but that’s about it. Since I was starting from scratch, on my own, and quite unknown, I needed a really good name. One word that just says it all. Like Sassy and Fierce (not for teens, but still, young adults).
Sassy (r.i.p)
Fierce Magazine (r.i.p.)
So I wanted the name to be jazzy enough that it would draw people’s attention (and make them want to pick it up and read or at least browse through it) but not too edgy that it would turn people off; a name that would speak to teen girls, but didn’t sound too cutesy; a name that was fresh, but not too gritty- in a way, I wanted something perfect, without playing it too safe. I wanted a name that would reflect what the magazine stands for and speak to the girls I’m trying to reach, the girls I’m writing about and the girls I’m writing for.
I wanted that. So I thought and looked words up in both the dictionary and the thesaurus until I found it. It was perfect! But it was taken. So I found another. Perfect! But there were too many incarnations of it online. I wanted something that was unique. And then it came to me- homegirl.
I knew what it meant. I used it to refer to a certain group of girls I knew from college who were from my hometown. We weren’t the closest of friends, but being from the same place was something that connected us, that endeared us to one another and set us apart from everyone else, from every place else. So I looked it up in the dictionary to make sure. According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, a homegirl is:
1 : a girl or woman from one’s neighborhood, hometown, or region
2: a girl or woman who is a member of one’s peer group
3: an inner-city girl or woman
Right. Right. Kind of perfect, no? The only thing was, I wondered if it would it only appeal to a certain kind of girl. You know, the ones for whom urban, hip-hop, and at-risk are synonymous. So I thought about it and here’s the deal. 1) Yes, the name homegirl does bring up images of fly girls in their b-girl stances and I’m cool with that because I am writing for them. 2) But I’m also writing for girls who have no idea what a b-girl stance looks like and 3) I think the content of what and whom I write about will reflect the diversity of what it means to be a homegirl, and a Tri-state homegirl at that.
So, whether you’re from Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, Harlem, Manhattan, Staten Island, Jersey, or Connecticut, come on in and get familiar. There’s something here for everyone. And if you don’t see something for you, email me (homegirl.nyc@gmail.com) and let me know so I can get right on top of that.
I’m here for you.
NYC Teen Magazines
I asked a question in a previous post about whether or not Seventeen and Teen Vogue were the only two teen magazines left standing. Well, the answer to my own question is no, they are not. In fact, there are two magazines written by and for teens in the NYC area that I wanted to tell you about, in case you didn’t know or hadn’t heard of them. And yes, they do deserve their own post.
New Youth Connections (NYC)
NYC is a magazine written by and for teens in New York City. It’s published seven times during the school year and if you attend public school in NYC, you should be able to get a free copy at your school. If not, check with your local library. You can also go to their website to read articles from the most recent issue (May/June 2009) and back issues.
Represent
Represent is NYC‘s sister publication and it’s written by and for teens in foster care. Represent is a bi-monthly magazine and you can also check out their website to read articles from the Summer 2009 issue and previous issues. (That cover is kind of sick, right?)
Also, if you are interested in writing for either one of these publications, you can! If you are between the ages of 15 and 20 and live in New York City, you are eligible. You might even be able to receive school credit, but you have to be committed to working really hard on your pieces. Check out the FAQ page for more information.
I have a really talented writer friend who works as an editor for NYC. She loves her job and working with young people, so I would really encourage you to reach out to them if you are interested in writing for one of their publications (and are committed to seeing it through). It sounds like a really amazing opportunity. You not only get to write and have your work published, but you also get to work with professional editors and maybe even see how a magazine is put together. Hotness.
Write on, girls
The September Issues
The September Issues are out. If you haven’t seen them, here they are:
Selena Gomez is on the cover of both Seventeen and Girl’s Life (if you read that. I think it skews to a younger crowd, like 10-15, but maybe you do). Interesting. I know her from The Witches of Waverly Place, which I know because my niece and nephew are Disney Channel stans. Nice to see some new faces on the cover of these magazines. And by “new,” I mean diverse. Take that how you want it, but I once collected all the CosmoGIRL! (r.i.p) covers that were of women of color and, let me just tell you that there weren’t many. So props to the girl Selena, she really seems to be doing her thing.
Taylor Momsen, of GG fame, is on the cover of Teen Vogue. I can’t really speak on her or the show since I don’t watch it. (Don’t judge me) But I don’t see anying too interesting or surprising on the cover. Actually, I take that back. I’d like to read that article on “Three Super Models Spill Their Secrets.” Sounds interesting. Now, I would be remiss in my duty as a journalist to just comment on the cover lines (although, to be fair, that is the initial draw, along with the cover model, of any magazine on the newsstand) without actually reading the magazines. So, I’ll make sure I do that for the October issues. Hmmm… I may have to start subscribing again. Or, I can just read them at the library.
Is that it for the teen magazines? Just Seventeen and Teen Vogue, basically. Am I forgetting anything? If not…Wow. That’s kind of unfortunate. Not to worry though, ours will be available in the coming months. Yes, there will be a print magazine as well. And I can’t wait!
So tell me something…what magazines do you read? Any? Love ’em? Hate ’em? What do you like/dislike about them? Speak your piece!
Withholding mine (for now)
Homegirl NYC 