THE 411

THE 411
Orbiting album
David Usher's second solo album, "Morning Orbit," is full of wicked pop-rock songs. The first single, "Alone in the Universe," is catchy and his take on Tracy Chapman's "Fast Car" is way cool. But the best track is "Black Black Heart," which features an evocative haunting chorus. The awesome musical arrangements as well as Usher's poetic, insightful lyrics make this CD an absolute delight.
Making a difference
Looking for volunteer experience? If you've ever wanted to help the homeless, volunteering at a shelter is a great way to make a difference. You could work in a soup kitchen serving meals or answering calls. Most shelters are in dire need of help. Just call the shelter nearest you and find out how you can get involved. And to read about how volunteerism changes lives, stop by the youth-powered e-zine www.pitchin.org and get inspired.
Asian avenue
Do you have Asian pride? Want to show it off? Go to www.asianavenue.com and create your own personal Web site. You get a guest book and a personal page where you can exchange messages and meet new friends. On top of that you can win free prizes depending on how many page hits you get. So make your page wacky and original. Get started on it now.
Book club information
If you love books and are always on the hunt for a great read, you'll want to visit www.bookclubs.ca. Read excerpts of award-winning and best-selling books and get up-to-date info on new books set to hit the stores. It also has a great resource section that includes info on how to start your own book club.
hQueen of suspense
Anne Rice's "Queen of the Damned," the third book in the Vampire Chronicles, will sweep you away. In this story we meet Akasha, the ancient Egyptian goddess who is rumored to be the first vampire in history. You'll find out if she is the real deal and how she became eternal. If you're into the vampire genre, you're going to love this wild tale, both the book and the newly released movie.
Quick fix
Here's an old trick you can use when you're running late in the morning and don't have time to wash your hair. Just sprinkle some baby powder on your hands and run them through your hair, making sure to get at the roots. The powder absorbs any oily residue. Use the blow dryer to get rid of any extra powder and you're all set to go.
DIY
Feeling crafty? Make your own sachet. Fill a small muslin bag (found at most natural-food stores) with a mixture of your favorite dried herbs and flowers and citrus peels. Pull the drawstring tightly and tie the end with a decorative ribbon. Place your sachet in your lingerie or linen drawer.
Back in the day
Feb. 27, 1827: The first Mardi Gras celebrations were held in New Orleans. The parades and parties of Mardi Gras now attract millions of tourists from around the world each year.
XThe 411 is a weekly column of what's hot and what's not, compiled by youth correspondents for Young People's Press, the North American youth news service. Got a hot tip for The 411? E-mail us at media@ypp.net or post it at www.ypp.net.