January 24, 2013 34st.com
ready/
[set]
:hack
48 hours. $4000. 1 winner. LOL Highbrow
Ego
Music
Film
Food & Drink
Arts
Lowbrow
Backpage
january 24
3
2013
3 highbrow
the roundup, word on the street: instagram, overheards, dispatch: guy rush
4 EGO
ego of the week, cover letter 101
instagram hate
20
6 MUSIC
music pirating pro/con, album reviews, destiny's child recap
9 Feature
pennapps hacking competition
12 Film
greek life as portrayed in film, movie reviews
penn through the years
interview with Drew Crockett of HubBub Coffee, food trucks turned into stores
review of Thomas Glassford's Afterglow, artist profile, campus gems
18 lowbrow the strut
In 1961, on the morning of JFK's inauguration, Robert Frost could not read the poem he had prepared for the President. The day was frigid and even the New Englander was unequipped to face the crippling cold and blinding sunlight. So he pulled himself together, straightened his weary spine and recited “The Gift Outright,” a poem he had memorized. At noon this past Monday, the day of President Obama’s second inauguration, it was 40° in Washington D.C. (granted, reports say it felt like 33°). Beyoncé, looking glamorous as ever, ascended the stage, lifted the mic, and lip-synced our national anthem. I want to say I don’t care, that Beyoncé could move me to tears
with the Big Mac jingle, but the truth is that on this bitter night, I find myself longing for a little Frost. This issue’s feature is on PennApps, the enormous hackathon held here last weekend. On Sunday, I stopped in to check out the scene. It wasn’t quite as pretty as Beyoncé (head to Page 9 for a better picture of the event, and to Page 8 for one of her), but the creativity I witnessed there was inspiring. And more importantly, it was improvised. If there’s one thing that we at Penn understand, it’s spontaneous origination. We just like to call it bullshit.
9
19
14 FOOD
16 ARTS
FROMtheEDITOR
improv
pennapps hackathon
destiny's child reunion
it's cold outside. come warm up with some chill folks. (we have tissues)
34TH STREET Magazine January 24, 2013
20 backpage
2
Penn through the years
WRITERS' MEETING 4015 WALNUT 6:30 P.M.
34th Street Magazine Nina Wolpow, Editor–In–Chief Sam Brodey, Managing Editor Alex Hosenball, Online Managing Editor Chloe Bower, Design Editor Sarah Tse, Photo Editor Olivia Fingerhood, Asst. Design Margot Halpern, Asst. Design Zacchiaus McKee, Highbrow Julia Liebergall, Highbrow Sophia Fischler-Gottfried, Ego Ben Lerner, Ego Isabel Oliveres, Food & Drink
Abigail Koffler, Food & Drink Ariela Osuna, Music Michelle Ma, Music Alexandra Jaffe, Film Faryn Pearl, Film Patrick Ford-Matz, Features Kiley Bense, Features Megan Ruben, Arts Gina DeCagna, Arts Lizzie Sivitz, Lowbrow Zach Tomasovic, Lowbrow Frida Garza, Back Page Zeke Sexauer, Back Page Lauren Greenberg, Social Media
Allie Bienenstock, Print Copy Madeleine Wattenbarger, Print Copy Marley Coyne, Online Copy Michael Shostek, Online Copy
Contacting 34th Street Magazine: If you have questions, comments, complaints or letters to the editor, email Nina Wolpow, Editor–in–Chief, at wolpow@34st.com. You can also call us at (215) 898– 6585. To place an ad, call (215) 898–6581.
Cover Design: Chloe Bower
Visit our web site: www.34st.com
Contributors: Ben Behrend, Rosa Escandon, Ian Bussard, Corey Loman, Angel Chen, Kelly Lawler, Andrew Scibelli, Solomon Bass, Jillian DiFilippo, Jack LaViolette, Katarina Underwood, Kevin Crouch, Shayla Cole, Rodney Robinson
"Dave! I need you! Oh shit! OH SHIT!"—TC ©2012 34th Street Magazine, The Daily Pennsylvanian, Inc. No part may be reproduced in whole or in part without the express, written consent of the editors (but I bet we will give you the a–okay.) All rights reserved. 34th Street Magazine is published by The Daily Pennsylvanian, Inc., 4015 Walnut St., Philadelphia, Pa., 19104, every Thursday.
Dispatch: Guy Rush 10:31 p.m.: Show up at the chapter house for the event, which begins at 10:30 p.m. “sharp.” 10:32 p.m.: The online questionnaire at the door requires me to fill out my vote for hottest freshman girl. I thought that only happened at Theos. 10:36 p.m.: Friend informs me that it’s best to just go with the flow and be down for anything. That’s how you get the brothers to like you. 10:37 p.m.: First kegstand of my life. “Yeah, I haven’t done one since high school, actually.” 10:43 p.m.: First cig of my life. “Yeah, I’m a Marlboro guy, actually.” Fitting in never felt so pathetically unfulfilling. Also, saying the word Marlboro is fairly challenging. 10:57 p.m.: This brother just asked me where I’m from and what school I’m in. I’m cool with mundane questions… if I hadn’t just answered them for the same brother six minutes ago. Even he has to think this small talk is bullshit. 11:04 p.m.: Lull in conversation hits hard while talking to one of the brothers. I decide to resort to making fun of the chanting freshman girls who are standing outside in the cold. A go–to move. 11:29 p.m.: Bankers just went down easy. This isn’t
The Big Picture: Instagram
good. 11:41 p.m.: Begin to contemplate eventually having to converse with the brothers while sober. 11:42 p.m.: Deem previous contemplation pretty much impossible. Begin to wonder if I’m cut out to be the frat star John Belushi always made me think I could be. 11:59 p.m.: Alcohol is taking its toll. Tongue isn’t really working how I want it to work. Unsure of what to do. 12:02 a.m.: Just burnt my tongue on a flaming shot. Didn’t even know that was possible. My tongue couldn’t be more useless right now. 12:17 a.m.: Just realized I haven’t talked to anyone in awhile. I’ve been drunkenly wandering through the frat. The last twenty minutes seem as though they’re coated in a haze. 12:19 a.m.: Just realized that haze might be weed. 12:20 a.m.: Definitely weed. 12:23 a.m.: Second kegstand of my life. The term “sophomore slump” might apply. 5:38 a.m.: Wake up back in the Quad. Cottonmouth. Feel like death. Still somehow alive. 5:39 a.m.: Begin to rebuild trust in Belushi.
THEROUNDUP
at
Girl: That guy isn’t that cute, but the other drug dealer is really cute. SDT Girl: OMG we have the same taste in salads! Guy: I got kicked out of McDonald’s last night. I tried stealing a poster. Two Theta pledges: They just said wear all black. Fratstar in Williams: I mean, anyone can skip grades in public school. Dude: You are not walking in a straight line. Drunk girl: I have scoliosis.
Three times in the past week I have been accused, by friends who know me well, of hating everything. Lena Dunham’s “Girls”? Hate it. Going to brunch? Hate it. Your new Facebook profile picture? Hate it. (I’m joking. Whatever you’re doing, it’s working). And really, I’m not surprised by my friends’ reactions so much as annoyed with myself for throwing around the word “hate” so freely when, in fact, I don’t hate much at all. I do like “Girls,” I just don’t think it’s that funny or insightful. I do like brunch, I just hate waiting hours for stuffed French toast. And I did love your profile picture. Just until you Instagrammed it, that is. Now I actually do hate it. The truth tea hath been spilled: I hate Instagram. And not any lazy, whiny “hate”—I really do despise it on a level somewhere between the third season of “Arrested Development” and the bubonic plague. Like most smartphone–toting Penn kids, I created an Instagram account. And, like most Instagram– having Penn kids, I believed I was making a statement of artistic integrity when passing the photos of my Houston Market salad through the Walden filter. But as someone with a particularly low threshold of frustration for all things twee, seeing the same “artsy,” “retro” images of College Green in Lo–Fi and the Fisher Fine Arts reading room in Toaster became aggressively boring pretty quickly. To be fair, Instagram isn’t a terrible idea. After all, why shouldn’t you want to share snazzy pictures you’ve taken so that other people can appreciate them? But if the goal is to be creative, the predictable snap/filter/ publish mechanism probably isn’t the best way to get there. Taking a quality photo on your phone (which, yes, of course you can do) is a process that should require some deliberation in order to convey meaning, but Instagram flips this by delaying thought on an experience or situation until after it’s passed. It hardly even matters what you capture, so long as the final result is recognizable as having been Instagrammed. Applying a filter to a shoddy image is the Instagram equivalent of posting a “THANKS FOR THE BIRTHDAY WISHES!!!!!!!!!!!!” status on Facebook, in that it says a lot about you by hardly saying anything at all. Because I’m not your nerdy grad student TA who doesn’t leave Sansom East, I won’t try to make the case that our generation has such a short attention span that we apply faux–vintage filters to pictures we’ve just taken to satisfy some deep-seated longing for nostalgia and to drug our inability to “live in the moment.” After all, that would be lame, wouldn’t it? I’m arguing that although it’s pretty sweet that more people than ever before have had easy access to a creative outlet, we now have a bit more responsibility in what we choose to digitally share with others. If you were waiting for me to throw around the old “A picture is worth a thousand words” chestnut, here we go: a picture is worth a thousand words. So let’s try to keep it that way for at least a little while longer, okay?
34TH STREET Magazine January 24, 2013
Rush may be over, lovelies, but don’t get too comfortable, Highbrow is here to entertain and amuse with all of your crazy stories—pledging or otherwise. So take a quick break from spreading the plague (we see you, dude sneezing in Williams) and let something a little more interesting go viral. Living out the fantasies of middle schoolers everywhere, two chocolate–covered SK girls got into a fight outside of the Sammy bid day party this past weekend. Now whatever you may be thinking, just stop right now. You’re disgusting. Chocolate syrup and whipped cream are staples at this dessert–themed jamboree. Unclear as to what these sisters were fighting about, but one thing’s for sure: I scream, you scream, we all scream for wet dreams. Isn’t that just the cherry on top of the night? Good news for our nocturnal friends over at 4k Pine (for now)! Highbrow hears that Owls got more than a couple new brothers this pledge season—and by more than a couple, we mean one more. Yes, these newest birdies are about to be the three best friends that anyone could have. So much so that they’ve taken to spending their evenings together, even when their bid day party is unexpectedly canceled—in an act of sheer brilliance, the trio headed over to the Rave instead, still dressed for a night out. Wonder if they saw “Zero Dark Thiry” (minus 27)? After receiving their bids, two freshmen girls found themselves behind HUP doors after catching a nasty drunken case of Alpha Phiver. Don’t worry, we hear both girls are phine. But that’s not all the action the hospital saw this past week. One ZTA sister received several stitches after smashing her face on the concrete after falling out of a cab. Never fear, sweetie, we’re sure you won’t have obvious Frankenstein scars. Worse comes to worse, you still have a great personality.
over heard PENN
By Ian bussard
highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow
wordonthestreet
HIGHBROW
3
highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow
EGO
egoof the week
SARAH RICHTER
STREET: Congratulations on winning the Senior Superlative for Best Dressed. Did you aggressively campaign? Be honest. Sarah Richter: No, I was shocked! I think my roommate Beryl Sanders deserved it! I told my mom I was nominated and she made this weird face and was like, “Have they seen your weird denim dress or your awkward lace up shoes? Do you wear those at school?” I told her, “Yes! People like me! It’s fine!” Then when I won she told everyone. Even my mom’s manicurist texted me with emoticons saying, “We always knew you had it in you!” I love Jeannine. STREET: We love your cheetah–print nails, courtesy of Jeannine. Who’s your fave Cheetah Girl? SR: Only Raven. The rest are dispensable. And thanks! STREET: How’d you get involved with Excelano?
SR: The first show I ever went to was my own. My friend Simone Stolzoff, who I met at a Kelly Writers House open mic night, encouraged me to come out to audition, even though I’d never read any of my poetry aloud until my audition. STREET: How touchy– feely is the spoken word community behind the scenes? SR: First meeting, they break you down. You need to stand this way, don’t talk about anchors, freckles, ribcages—don’t even think about it. It’s not as militant as it sounds, but it’s hard to avoid those clichés. STREET: Is it harder to write or perform your poetry? SR: The performing is way more nerve–wracking than writing, to the point it restricts my writing. It’s gotten harder over the years to perform, because the more you’re in Excelano, the more
Though she once dreamt of life as a mermaid, this art history major now spends her time educating the new crop of St. Elmo members, getting snaps at Excelano and counting down the days until graduation, all while strutting her superlative “Street” style.
you understand how great it is and how your words have meaning. And then you’re like, “Oh, wow, people really take this seriously.”
but people are having nervous breakdowns and I’m just looking at my watch.
STREET: Who’s your alter ego? SR: Well, my nicknames are Slick Richter, Slick Dichter, Clit Lichter, Kick Trickster and Trina Rat. But my superego is the bouncer at Legion. Man, he’s got that shit on lock. He’s in control and powerful. STREET: What kind of New Member Educator are you going to be for Elmo? SR: I’m known as a bit of the, quote, "ice queen." My partner–in–crime is the kindest human being, so we’ll balance each other nicely. I’m very good at being intimidating.
STREET: As you move on, what will be the departing lesson you’ll take from Penn? SR: Wear and do whatever you want and let other people worry about what they think about you. I was like, I could be giving a fuck or not giving one. One of those options is way more fun.
STREET: Has your final semester panic attack set in yet? SR: I’m not getting upset about it. I’ll miss my friends,
STREET: There are two types of people at Penn… SR: People that are on one side of my bi-
nary and people who are on the other. STREET: What was your first dream job? SR: A mermaid or a mother. Which is horrible because I look at babies now and I actively dislike them. I’m like, “You nauseate me because I’m scared of having one of you.” Especially twins, since my dad has an identical one. I called them both Uncle Daddy until I was nine. I had a difficult childhood. I just wanted to be a mother.
3931 Walnut Street Philadelphia 3931 Walnut Street Philadelphia 215-222-5300 www.hummusrestaurant.com
215-222-5300 | www.hummusrestaurant.com
34TH STREET Magazine January 24, 2013
make itit aa feast! feast! make
4
makeititaasuccess! success! make
feast special feeds 25 for only $199
place orders in advance of your eventevent place orders in advance of your offer available exclusively online
includes: falafel, hummus, pita, Moroccan cigars includes: falafel, hummus, pita, Moroccan cigars mixed meat, rice, Israeli & cabbage salads mixed meat, rice, Israeli & cabbage salads
By BEN LERNER AND SOPHIA FISCHLER-GOTTFRIED
The semester may have just started, but it’s already time to start making moves for your summer plans. Here’s how to master the art of the cover letter, “personally stating” why you’re the one that a potential employer wants for that (allegedly) glamorous NYC internship.
Do's Do include your contact information, all of it. Make sure it’s updated and typo–free! Don’t be that person they want to hire until they get to sealgirl92@aim. com or an incorrect area code. They don’t need delivery from that Iowa pizzeria.
Do make it interesting. Honestly, some of your cover letters probably bore even you, or worse, your mom. Employers are going to read like 3245678 of these, so take a fun angle. But don’t write a poem.
Do show your enthusiasm! Or at least your fake enthusiasm! But chill with the exclamation points!
Do perfect the humble-brag. Say what you’ve accomplished, but don’t go overboard with how great you are. That club might be “Penn’s only _____,” but is it really “Philadelphia’s premier _____”?
Don’t go overboard with formatting or things you think will look super unique. Pink and scented only works in “Legally Blonde” (Can’t go wrongwith the classic bikini–clad video essay, though).
Don’t duplicate. It may be annoyingly repetitive, but the biggest blunder is drafting a single cover letter and simply switching the company and contact’s name. Not only is it obvious to the employer, but you could also slip up and put the wrong info in it, which is way too Common App–supplement horror–story for anyone’s taste.
Don’t forget to mention why you would be an asset to your hedge fund/ fashion magazine/Dunkin’ Donuts of choice. Most Penn kids (or their “occupation counselors”) know how to list their sterling accomplishments in résumé form, but the cover letter is where your voice shines through beyond bullet points. But cool it with the overly descriptive explanation of your “tireless, unyielding, motivational and inspirationally natural work ethic.”
Don’t be desperate. Even if the job is your top choice and you’ll just die without it, calm yourself on the word vomit. It’s okay if you religiously read their newsletter, but don’t tell them your room is plastered with headshots of all twenty Executive Vice Presidents.
Don’t be passive. Tell the employer– to–be you’ll follow up—and then actually do it. It shows your dedication and initiative. If she mentions her sick cat during a phone interview, inquire about the feline’s health. Work those phrases to sing your praises.
Blind Cover Letter MONTH DAY, YEAR Ms. PROPER NOUN, Director Office of ADJECTIVE NOUN Dear Ms. PROPER NOUN: I was interested to read the NOUN, which addressed the growing ADJECTIVE NOUN population at your NOUN. I am moving to LOCATION next month and am eager to continue my work with international PLURAL NOUN. I am writing to introduce myself as I would like to be considered for any positions that may be available in the Office of PROPER NOUN at the University of LOCATION. As indicated in my ADJECTIVE resume, I will graduate this MONTH from the University of Pennsylvania with a NOUN with a specialization in ADJECTIVE NOUN. Thank you for taking the time to review my resume. I will call you the first week of MONTH to see if we can arrange a mutually ADJECTIVE NOUN for a personal interview. I will be moving to LOCATION the end of MONTH and would be delighted to meet with you shortly thereafter. I look forward to speaking with you soon. ADVERB yours, YOUR NAME HERE
34TH STREET Magazine January 24, 2013
Do be concise. This isn’t a writing seminar, guys. Ain’t nobody got time for a rhetorical outline–esque novella.
Don’ts
highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow
EGO PRESENTS: COVER LETTERS 101
5
highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow
LOL
MUSIC
ty res l i u g su a ple
MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE
My friend recently showed me a video where the guitarists of My Chemical Romance spent around 10 minutes attempting to explain what a power chord is. They were unsuccessful. That painfully awkward interview showcased everything that’s wrong with My Chemical Romance, yet every time I hear “Welcome to the Black Parade,” I find myself singing along. Their songwriting is just a bit more emo than Queen, but maybe that’s what makes the song so irresistible. The whole shtick of the Black Parade turns me off, but I’ll probably still be shouting, “when I was…a young boy,” just like we all did back in 7th grade. —Kevin Crouch
34TH STREET Magazine January 24, 2013
The Philadelphia Orchestra
UNLIMITED CONCERTS $25 Membership
eZseatU
While Ra Ra Riot’s first two albums were decidedly baroque, its upcoming album, “Beta Love,” takes a sharp turn into the realm of the synth, à la musicians like Passion Pit and Miike Snow. The group gets props for trying out something new, but the shift may be a bit Grade: Bdisappointing for those who Sounds best when: were anticipating its signature You’re not really paying atviolin, instead of rehashed tention to what you’re liselectronic beats. Some tracks, tening to but just need some like “What I Do For U” and poppy noise. “Binary Mind,” are borderline 99-cent download: “When I annoying, as even the synth Dream" falls flat, failing to provide something dance–worthy in probably stick with what it return for the sudden lack of does best: blending orchestral romantic appeal. The effort is music and modern rock. there, but Ra Ra Riot should —Katarina Underwood
TORO Y MOI— “ANYTHING IN RETURN” Toro y Moi’s latest studio album, “Anything in Return,” is most strongly characterized by its subtlety. Unlike the 26–year–old’s previous EPs, the whole album thumps with constant backbeat ambiance. Rather than relying on obvious emotional peaks, “Anything in Return” maintains a pensive, almost somber tone throughout. This is not to say that each track is indistinguishable; the beats of “So Many Details” and “Grown Up Calls” each give off a hip–hop vibe, and tracks like “Cake” are noticeably less introspective. This album man-
Grade: BSounds best when: Procrastinating for your writing seminar 99-cent download: “So Many Details"
ages to find the aesthetic sweet spot, cohesive but not predictable, and the results are surprisingly funky. — Jack LaViolette
College Ticket Program Yannick Nézet-Séguin Music Director Photo: Pete Checchia
6
RA RA RIOT—“BETA LOVE”
Presented by
Join now and learn more at
www.philorch.org/ezseatu
34TH STREET MAGAZINE~~
Michelle and Frida weigh in on the pros and cons of getting free music. BY MICHELLE MA AND FRIDA GARZA
CONTRAPUNTAL—PAY FOR YOUR MUSIC
Disclaimer: I’m not here to suggest that we should all should acquire our music illegally. I buy most, if not all, of my music—more out of the fact that I’m not torrent–savvy than out of any particular political stance. That being said, I do believe that the world would be a better place, both for the artist and for the average music consumer, if all music on the internet were free. And that’s not because of any anti-establishment slant on my part, but because free music means more music being heard and appreciated. I’m not going to be a pretentious whiner either and say that nothing good’s ever on the radio anymore. Truth be told, “I Knew You Were Trouble” plays on every station all the time because it’s catchy as hell. That being said, plenty of other artists who are just as good as Miss Taylor Swift don’t get radio play because their music is riskier. With evil mega–monster corporations like Clear Channel controlling the radio, the stuff that takes time to appreciate gets passed over for the instant crowd–pleasers. Case in point: everyone likes Kanye, but not everyone likes Del tha Funkeé Homosapien. But the people who like Del will tell you he’s the best thing to happen to rap in decades. When artists like this one get passed over by the radio stations, they lose the type of exposure that’s critical in gaining fans and acclaim. That’s where I think free music available in various ways on the Internet comes in to save the day. Whether it’s through legal or currently illicit outlets, this sort of music streaming gives underexposed bands and artists a chance to be heard. The fact is, the viral nature of the Internet makes the listening process that much more democratic, both for the consumer and the artist’s benefit. Some people say that streaming and downloading music without paying for it is unfair to the artist and unfair to the record companies. While it’s true that they lose out on potential profits from CDs and iTunes downloads, such outlets for listening to music are well on their way to being irrelevant anyway. Just as people once dropped their Walkmans and cassette tapes for iPods and mp3 players, people are now dropping their 99–cent downloads for Spotify, Pandora and YouTube. The times are definitely a–changin’, and it’s up to the music industry to keep up. —Michelle Ma
I remember LimeWire. I was sitting in my sixth grade computer class, listening to the girls next to me talk about the latest Ryan Cabrera song. I hadn’t heard it yet and couldn’t understand the intricate connections between his lyrical prowess and his fledging relationship with Ashlee Simpson. But I wanted to. When they suggested that I find the song on LimeWire, this amazing desktop application that let you search for music and download it for free, I was floored. The power of music, of being in the know with the Top 40 and everything that follows, was at my fingertips, and it didn’t cost me a dime. It felt too good to be true. That’s because it was too good to be. I didn’t know it then, but at 12 years old, I was breaking the law. One shoddily made anti-piracy ad at the movie theater was enough to scare me into deleting LimeWire off my computer for good. I realized that there were, in theory, legal repercussions for my actions. The need for immediate gratification in the world of music downloads felt like poison to me. Fast-forward some nine years and I no longer live in fear of imprisonment. The legal argument against downloading pirated music is hardly the most effective—I never actually heard of anyone going to jail for downloading the newest Katy Perry album and you probably haven’t either. None of my friends were arrested the first time they listened to “In the Aeroplane Over the Sea” and you can bet they didn’t pay for it. Police sirens aren’t going off every time my roommate downloads the newest One Direction song for her workout playlists. Maybe it’s against the law, but you’d never know the difference. The most important reason for paying for your music is that it's shitty to not. Do you love your small indie rock bands? Your folk singers discovered as buskers and given their first tentative record deal? Do you want them to keep making music? Nay, do you want them to be able to pay their bills and eat? Then stop feeling entitled to free access to the fruits of their labor and pay up. Don’t tell me you can’t afford it—if the music is good, the money is worth it. Yes, it puts a dent in your wallet, but it keeps an industry alive. It’s not only economically responsible, it’s the decent thing to do. Take a fucking stand against indecency and PAY FOR YOUR MUSIC. —Frida Garza
.it's
free... and always will be. we'll take your two cents though. 34st.com
34TH STREET Magazine January 24, 2013
PUNTAL—FREE MUSIC FOR ALL
highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow
PUNTAL/CONTRAPUNTAL—MUSIC PIRACY
7
highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow
DESTINY’S CHILD RECAP: TOP 5 SONGS
It's been a dark decade without our favorite girl group. We're giving them back the spotlight they deserve. By SHAYLA COLE
1. Say My Name (1999)
3. Bootylicious (1998)
5. Bills, Bills, Bills (1999)
Who would’ve known that all you had to do to make a hit video was feature a variety of scenes of color–coordinated people striking various vogue poses? Either way, this song was a huge success and definitely got people saying their names.
People already knew they were hot, but after “Bootylicious," Destiny's Child literally left their mark on the English dictionary. From that point on, any beautiful, well–endowed female was referred to as “bootylicious.” Some could even argue they re–ignited big butt appeal in the world of R&B. Despite their hesitation, we were indeed ready for that jelly.
When this song came out, guys didn’t know whether to drool or be angry that Destiny’s Child was pointing out their money–pinching ways. On another note, does anyone even remember Destiny's Child rejects LeToya and LaTavia? Neither do I.
2. Soldier (ft. T.I. and Lil Wayne) (2004) Destiny’s Child decided to get a little gangsta when they released “Soldier.” Featuring younger, pre–fame versions of T.I and Lil Wayne, Beyonce’s pregnant 17–year–old sister and various other random kla$$y individuals, Destiny’s Child combined their usual sex appeal with a more urban feel that certainly appealed to hip–hop and R&B aficionados alike.
4. Survivor (1998) Jungle outfits? Check. Camouflage slash army fatigue outfits? Check. Three sexy females crawling through the dirt motivating women (and men) across the nation to get their butts in shape? Check. Need I say more?
Check out 34st. com/music for a review of Destiny's Child's new album.
THA QLUB IZ FULL OF BALLAZ AND THEY POQQETS FULL GROWN
$$$ GRANTS AVAILABLE FOR YOUR GROUP $$$
34TH STREET Magazine January 24, 2013
$$$ GRANTS AVAILABLE FOR YOUR GROUP $$$
8
The Trustees’ Council of Penn Women (TCPW) The Trustees’ Council of Penn Women (TCPW) is pleased to announce its 2013-2014 Grants and of the University is pleased to Program announce itsencourages 2012-2013 members Grants Program and community to apply. encourages members of the University community to apply. Grants ranging between $1,000-$5,000 be available to Grants ranging between $1,000-$5,000 will be will available to individuals or individuals or organizations which promote: organizations which promote: • women’s issues • Women’s issues • the quality of undergraduate and graduate life for women • The quality of undergraduate and graduate life for women • the advancement of women • The advancement of women • the physical, emotional and psychological well-being of women • The physical, emotional and psychological well-being of women Favorable consideration will be given to projects that:
Favorable• consideration will beofgiven to projects that: affect a broad segment the University population • Affect a broad segment of the University population • foster a greater awareness of women’s issues • Foster a greater awareness of women’s issues • provide seed money for pilot programs that have the potential to • Provide seed money for pilot programs that have the become ongoing self-supporting programs potential to become ongoing self-supporting programs To apply, visit the TCPW website at www.alumni.upenn.edu/groups/tcpw/ and download the visit application from the TCPW at Grant web page. Applications must be submittedand no later To apply, the TCPW website www.alumni.upenn.edu/groups/tcpw/ download the than February 2012. Awards will page. be announced in the Spring 2012 and fundsno willlater be application from the 13, TCPW Grant web Applications must ofbe submitted than distributed in July/August 2012 for projects in the 2012-2013 academic year. February 15, 2013. Awards will be announced in the Spring of 2013 and funds will be distributed in July/August 2013 for projects in the 2013-2014 academic year.
A
inside the largest college hackathon in the world. by frida garza
SARAH TSE
34TH STREET Magazine January 24, 2013
SAM RIGGS
Alex Rattray wants “males and adventurous females” to discover the musical potential of their urine. He’s brought a toilet—tank and all—from the basement of Hamilton Court to the third floor of the Towne Building in the Engineering Quad. In a classroom filled with chattering students, Alex hooks up a webcam to the uppermost part of the elevated toilet seat lid and turns it on. Tonight, he and his friend Kyle Hardgrave will work together to write a computer program that will allow the webcam to detect urine, then triggering the computer that it’s hooked up to to play music. Alex W'14 and Kyle SEAS'14 are giving up their weekend to do this. It’s Friday night and the sixth PennApps 40–hour “hackathon” for programmers and designers has just begun. PennApps is a technical competition and an inspirational call to create innovative hardware and software hacks. All hacks require software—some computer program that can interpret data and then do something cool with it. The difference is that hardware hacks also involve a physical user interface other than a computer, like a robot or toilet. This semester’s PennApps is the largest in its history and the second to eschew a theme. There’s only one objective: build something. Hope that it works. That is the spirit of hacking. “To hack” means to create something, to hack away at it until it’s done. The final product may work or it may not—but when you only have one chance to impress the judges, your app had better work the first time. The code has to be perfect. And you only have 40 hours to get it right. Outside the classroom, the hallways of the first, second and third floors of Towne are filled with an assembly line of Indian food, free of charge to all participants. Fed and happy, students crowd around their tables talking ideas and strategy at. Laptop chargers, extension cords and power strips link teams to outlets, while kids keep their eyes glued to their screens. Over the course of the weekend, hundreds of students will essentially live in the same building. There are no beds, but PennApps organizers advised everyone to bring blankets, pillows and sleeping bags. The decision to sleep (or to forgo sleep and continue coding) is up to the students, but they will need to maintain a certain level of coherence in order to turn their cool ideas into cool products. That’s the goal for Adi Dahiya, a Management and Technology junior, and his teammate Ankit Shah, a Wharton senior. They ran into another team of two with a similar app idea—a collaborative music player (think upvoting your favorite song to the first in the queue)—and joined forces to produce the best version of that idea. At midnight on Friday, they have spent the majority of the past four hours fleshing out their idea: What problem does the playlist solve? How will users interact with it? This all will affect the app’s code, which in turn gives the app its visual look. The process is inherently collaborative. The front end of the application
highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow
penn has a hack for that
10101011100010111000101010101001010100100101010010101101010111000101110001010101010010101001001010100101010 10101110001011100010101010100101010010010101001010110101011100010111000101010101001010100100101010010101010 10111000101110001010101010010101001001010100101011010101110001011100010101010100101010010010101001010101010 11100010111000101010101001010100100101010010100101010111000101110001010101010010101001001010100101010101011 10001011100010101010100101010010010101001010101010111000101110001010101010010101001001010100101001010111000 10111000101010101001010100100101010010101010101110001011100010101010100101010010010101001010101010111000101 11000101010101001010100100101010010101010101110001011100010101010100101010010010101001010101010111000101110 00101010101001010100100101010010100101011100010111000101010101001010100100101010010101010101110001011100010 10101010010101001001010100101010101110001011100010101010100101010010010101001010101010111000101110001010101 01001010100100101010010101010101110001011100010101010100101010010010101001010101010111000101110001010101010 01010100100101010010101010101110001011100010101010100101010010010101001010101010111000101110001101010111000 10111000101010101001010100100101010010101101010111000101110001010101010010101001001010100101010101011100010
9
highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow
10
B
SARAH TSE
sponsors are also around all weekend to offer guidance. The big shots— Facebook, Google, Microsoft—are all there, answering questions about APIs (think giant libraries of data that programmers can incorporate into their apps) and various programming languages (like Javascript, CSS and HTML). It’s not about altruism; for them, a hackathon like PennApps, which brings together programmers from some the best computer science schools in the country (and one team from Zurich, Switzerland), is an incredible recruiting opportunity. For standout developers, it is an opportunity to network and catch the attention of big–name employers and start–up hackers. But for most students, the pressure to do well within the PennApps competition isn’t pre–professional—it’s creative. Among the hacks at this semester’s event were robots that could shoot each other, a web browser that looks like a vintage television set, a game that allows you to “Marry, Friend, Kill” your Facebook friends and a controversial app called “Playbook” that allows users to share their sexual experiences (“I got to third base with Angelina last night!”). One of the participants who worked on “Skye,” a decision–making app for the overscheduled, describes the hackathon as a time “to do what you love the most for 48 hours straight.” Student organizer Pulak Mittal explains that the hackathon places no special emphasis on creating sellable
products. “It’s not like everyone here wants to make a start–up. We don’t ask that hacks focus on monetization or room for growth,” says Pulak. Instead, student hacks are judged based on four, perhaps more noble criteria: novelty, polish, usefulness and technical difficulty.
B
By midday Saturday, Alex is squirting fake pee (water with “Lemon Yellow” food coloring for appearance and CoffeeMate for consistency) out of a CamelBack. They got a new toilet (Why? “Pee is yellow. The old toilet was yellow. The webcam can’t detect yellow on yellow.”) but have made little progress otherwise. Kyle tells me that last night the two of them went home around 4 a.m. with essentially nothing done. They came back this morning at 10 a.m. to work. Adi’s team is in a similar position. Made of four Penn students, they also all went home from 4 to 10 a.m. (Out–of–towners weren’t as lucky). Today, Adi tells me that they don’t have much to show, although they have achieved their goal of setting up the architecture of the program itself. For now, Ankit is designing the user interface for the web app in grayscale, a safe move for an app that hasn’t been fully coded yet. For these two Penn teams, and so many others at the hackathon, the bulk of the work will happen tonight beginning at 8 p.m. and ending at 11
a.m. on Sunday. Ideas have been developed, logos have been made and
Before presenting in front of a smaller panel of judges, Alex is worried he hacked the wrong thing. He originally had plans to build a schedule planner that incorporated PennCourseReview’s API to select the best classes and optimize one’s educational experience. There’s no time to wonder, though, as he and Kyle wheel their toilet (complete with shaggy floor mat and a lamp for ambience) into the Berger Auditorium
while Alex mock–pees into the toilet with fake urine. He is full of bravado, the only contestant who has given their presentation any theatrical flourish (“Ladies and gentleman, I give you... The Musical Toilet!”), but when he first shoots liquid into the basin, the program fails and no music is played. The team keeps calm and runs through it again— this time, a house beat comes on and the audience cheers. However, when Alex tries to shuffle to the next song, another feature they included, the toilet remains uncooperative. Instead, he accidentally tweets to @pennapps many, many times. When the first round is over, “The Musical Toilet” is not among the 20 apps that will appear in the next demo. However, “ZeitPlanner,” a scheduling app built by Penn computer science freshmen that is similar to Alex’s initial idea, does make it. Second–round demos in a filled– to–capacity Irvine Auditorium go
01100101010010100110101001000010001010110100010101010100010111101001010 01100101010010100110101001000010001010110100010101010100010111101001010 01100101010010100111001010010000100010101101000101010101000101111010010 10101000101111000010110010111010101000101010101010101000101010101011010 01100101010010100110101001000010001010110100010101010100010111101001010 01100101010010100110101001000010001010110100010101010100010111101001010 01100101010010100110101001000010001010110100010101010100010111101001010 01100101010010100110101001000010001010110100010101010100010111101001010 01100101010010100111001010010000100010101101000101010101000101111010010
There’s only one objective: build something. Hope that it works.
programs may have been partially written. From here on out, the only thing that’s left is to keep coding and fix as many bugs as possible. “We always had the basic idea of how we were going to hack it. Now, it’s a question of whether or not this”—a toilet that plays music as you pee and can tweet the duration of your bathroom visit—“can happen,” says Kyle. He and Alex do everything to ensure it can. While one of them writes lines of code, the other stands over his shoulder and proofreads it for mistakes. They test it countless times, filling the baby blue basin with yellow liquid and then shoveling it out with a scoop they made by cutting a corner off a gallon of milk. They work nonstop until around 7 a.m. In the morning, Alex’s fingers are stained bright yellow from the makeshift urine. Around 10 a.m., he curls up against the classroom wall and naps before the first round of app demos. There, they will see if
S
downstairs. They, like every other team, have two minutes to demo their hack—that means to run their program once onstage and show that it works. If it doesn’t, they have no chance of continuing on to the second round of demos, where the top 20 apps will be presented. Demos in the Berger Auditorium are off to a rough start. One contestant, who worked alone, gave a lengthy explanation of his web app, and was rudely forced off–stage by incessant clapping. When another team tries to run the software for their app “CodeAlong,” a pop–up window appears on-screen and says “Program unresponsive :(.” When Kyle and Alex get on stage, no one is sure what will happen. There's a point in the competition when Friday's lofty expectations hit a wall of reality. One of the contestants jokes, "48 hours ago we were young and naive." Kyle mans the actual computer program that he and Alex wrote,
well, with all 20 apps working onstage and eliciting cheers and “oohs”
A
from the audience and judges. “Inventory,” an app that monitors what goes in and out of your backpack and sends you a mobile notification if you leave something at home, takes home first place. Afterwards, the sponsors announce their favorite apps and reward those teams with their own prizes. Before announcing the winner of his company’s prize, PennApps mentor and Venmo founder Andrew Kortina takes the stage. He talks about his college experience at Penn: how he switched his major from computer science to philosophy, how he graduated without any job prospects. On the day of graduation, his mom asked him what he would do. He said he had two weeks before his lease was up and he would “figure it out” by then. He found a place in West Philly for $400 a month and started designing websites for restaurants in the neighborhood for $500 a pop. If they offered $100, he would take it, no haggling. Over the next few years, friends and family asked continually when Kortina would get a “real” job. Now on the stage at PennApps, he encourages students not to listen to those questions, to renounce the myth that the pre-professional path is the only way to success. He explains that PennApps teaches the joy of creating and that the rewards of that desire to innovate accelerate and deepen the experience of learning. The instinct and desire to build, Kortina says, are good for the
world. He reminds students to keep this in mind as they leave the hackathon and return to the real world. As sponsors continue to hand out their awards, Alex sits atop an unfolded auditorium chair in the back of Irvine. He says that he is upset about ZeitPlanner making the top 20, since his similar vision would have included more features and a cleaner design. He adds, however, that he is happy he did the toilet hack, because “once you have the toilet and the idea, you can’t not do it.” He shrugs off the thought of developing his own schedule planner outside of the competition. He already has other plans. “I’m pretty
busy with EssaySafe,” he says of an online exam app he’s been working on last June. He hopes to have it used in more classrooms this year. In his speech, Kortina talked about how “the worst part of PennApps is coming back to the real world.” Outside of this space, it’s a pre–professional beeline toward a desk job. Alex doesn’t seem too worried. He’s going back into the real world swinging. Frida Garza is a junior from El Paso, Texas, studying creative writing. She is the current backpage editor and former design and music editor for 34th Street Magazine.
Best of pennapps (according to street) Best for People who Wish They Lived in the Movie Clueless:
Best for Your Friend with a Long Distance GF:
Uncloseted
Marmoset
If you’ve always dreamed of having a personal (robot) stylist, Uncloseted is here for you. Upload images of your clothes and it creates outfits based on the weather and your plans.
Keep your stalker, clingy significant other or bitchy friend at bay with this Facebook messenger bot that generates automated replies to chats.
Best for Frat Parties:
Best for Compulsive Liars:
Bouncer
Facation
Not that ratio-tracking (shout-out to freshmen everywhere) isn’t fun, but there’s a better way to organize your parties. Bouncer lets you track RSVPs and invite lists via your iPhone, along with coordinating those ever–elusive “you owe me like 3 bucks for liquor” payments via Venmo and providing a Bouncer Mode with the ability to scan IDs.
Great for both daydreamers and pathological liars, Facation needs only for you to upload a photo of yourself to its system in order to plan you an entire, fabricated getaway. Trip package includes: flights, hotels, Facebook status updates, tantalizingly exotic photos and an instant loss of trust from all those close to you.
Best for Frat Stars:
Best for Foodies on the Go:
Playbook
Tr–eat
If you’ve always wanted to keep a comprehensive manifest of your sexual conquests, snag this digital Little Black Book that brings your list of lays into the 21st Century—“social, digital, and secure.” Perfect for everyone, from “Sex and the City” characters to run–of–the–mill d–bags.
Grub Hub for food trucks. ‘Nuff said. Best for Your Technologically Inept Parents:
Skype for Grandma
Facewash
If your mom still hasn’t figured out how to turn her webcam, this app, which simplifies video chatting, could be the answer to your prayers.
Wipe clean your Facebook slate with this app that helps you find and delete digital dirt. What it desperately needs? An image search for red solo cups.
MORE AWARDS ONLINE @ 34st.com. — Kiley Bense and Patrick Ford-Matz
Best for OCR:
34TH STREET Magazine January 24, 2013
34TH STREET Magazine January 24, 2013
T
Today, PennApps is the largest college hackathon in the world. Nearly 500 students and programmers registered for this semester’s competition. Just two and a half years ago, the first PennApps competition only had 17 teams. When you consider the sponsors, prizes and perks, the allure of this celebrated competition seems obvious. Its success and popularity is due partially to the organizers’ focus on creating a memorable two–day experience for the student competitors. PennApps isn’t just a hackathon; it’s a hackathon organized by students, and specifically by Penn students, meaning no need goes unconsidered. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and copious amounts of caffeine are available for all the teams, and there is a midnight run to Powelton Pizza for fresh air and more carbohydrates. There’s a photo booth, quizzo, an ice–skating expedition and free gourmet popsicles. Each contestant receives a swag bag filled with pins, shirts and stickers. And of course, there are the final prizes: $4,000 for the first place app, plus a trip to Google NYC, a meet– and–greet with a Philadelphia startup collective and a chance to compete in another hackathon hosted by Greylock University. Those are only the prizes offered by PennApps itself. Add the corporate sponsors into the picture and the stakes get a little higher. SoundCloud will pay for the best music hack to visit its headquarters in Berlin. In a surprise announcement on Friday night, eBay said it would extend an internship offer to the competitors behind the hack they deem the best. In addition to offering spoils,
they “did well,” as Kyle puts it. The fact that they’ve written a program, engineered a toilet that tweets and done it all on no sleep doesn’t seem to count. Downstairs, Ankit tests the team’s work on his phone. As he upvotes a song, the code written on Adi’s computer changes accordingly and the song slides to the top of the playlist. This is good news. But there are still bugs to be fixed before demos and the team hasn’t slept either.
highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow
depends on the back end as much as the other way around. If Ankit wants the design to look a certain way, Adi has to code it. If Adi and the other programmers on the team want to add a new feature, Ankit has to change the design. The race toward a finished product doesn’t just depend on a good idea—it also mandates a team that works well together. On Friday night, those who can go home and sleep will. On Saturday, it’s all–nighters for everyone. As M&T sophomore Max Scheiber puts it, “You can do the midnight ice–skating thing [on Saturday night], or you can push through and win. I’m here to win.”
11
highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow 34TH STREET Magazine January 24, 2013 12
LOL
FILM
AMOUR By Kelly lawler
In the Oscar–nominated “Amour,” director Michael Haneke asks the question, “When does life end?” The life is that of Anne (Emmanuelle Riva), an eighty–somethingyear–old woman in Paris who is debilitated by a stroke. Her husband, Georges (Jean–Louis Trintignant), must suffer through the battle of her daily care as her mental and physical health decline. Haneke chooses unconventional angles to capture Anne’s decline, shooting scenes from behind or around the corner of her apartment to create a sense of voyeurism. At many moments, though, the film’s commitment to realism is incredibly hard to watch, espe-
BROKEN CITY By ANGEL CHEN
“Broken City” boasts a number of twists and turns, but it can’t escape the predictability that comes with the crime– thriller genre. Ever-typecasted Mark Wahlberg plays severe detective Billy Taggart, who is hired by the mayor of New York City, Nicholas Hostetler (Russell Crowe), to investigate the extramarital affair of Mrs. Hostetler (Catherine Grade: BRating and length: Zeta-Jones). The short but PG13, 127 min. fast-paced dialogue, the dark Metacritic: 93% cinematography and the inSee if you liked: "Another tense brutality all combine to Year" give the film a gritty, almost cially for anyone who has seen stifling atmosphere. Moments a loved one suffer a similar of dry humor and vulgarity fate. Even so, “Amour” re- temporarily lift the repressive mains beautiful in the ugliest tone of the film but they don't ways possible. feel out of place. The plot is
Grade: B Rating and length: R, 109 min. Metacritic: 49% See if you liked: "The Departed"
unfortunately not developed to its full potential, resulting in a rather short and disappointing dénouement.
FULL REVIEWS AND MORE AT 34ST.COM
About 30% of the student body is involved in Greek life. According to Hollywood, that number should be 100%. We took a look at how sororities and fraternities are depicted in movies, and as for the results—well, let’s just say film fratstars have more fun.
Animal House (197) Depicts: Fraternity You didn’t get into the hottest frat on campus. So what? Everyone knows that the toga ragers at the least cool house are so wild they make you wanna Shout! Bottom line: We’re pretty sure this movie is why every guy wants to become a bro. Insane parties, rambunctious roadtrips, extreme levels of debauchery—it’s what every high school boy dreams college will be.
Legally Blonde (2001) Depicts: Sorority Your sisters will support you through the worst of times, like getting dumped by love-of-your-life Warner Huntington III, and the best of times, like getting into Harvard Law after majoring in fashion merchandising. Bottom line: “Legally Blonde” paints the kindest view of sorority life. They’re still materialistic and air-headed, but at least the Delta Nus seem to genuinely care about each other.
Revenge of the Nerds (1984) Depicts: Fraternity The classic nerds vs. jocks scenario. The athletic Alpha Betas bully the geeky Lambda Lambda Lambdas. The Lambda Lambda Lambda boys get sweet, sweet revenge. Bottom line: Although the Tri–Lambs don’t seem like the typical fratstars, their strong sense of brotherhood makes them true fratstars.
La Fontana Della Citta
Excellent for Family and Group Meetings Contact Management, they are happy to meet your needs! 15% off with Fixed Price Sunday-Thursday
Authentic Italian Cuisine at Reasonable Prices 1701 Spruce St. - Philadelphia, PA 19103 - www.lafontanadellacitta.com
CHECK IT OUT!
panhel prez jessica stokes and ifc prez andy turell soundoff on greek life in movies at 34st.com
34TH STREET Magazine January 24, 2013
Sydney White (2007) Depicts: Sorority Old School (2003) Getting into a sorority is catty Depicts: Fraternity Some old fraternity bros revert back to their college attitudes, and and calculated. God forbid basically everyone wants to join them because freakin’ Will “Frank you’re not blonde. You better be a legacy, or sayonara! the Tank” Ferrell is there. Bottom line: Like all the fraternity–based movies we saw, “Old Bottom line: The Kappa sisSchool” shows the bond of brotherhood in an exceptionally posi- ters are big–busted, blonde and tive light. “The Godfather’s” fraternity is inclusive, inviting and an bitchy. They’re the archetypal sorority girls and make the overall source of good. perfect villains for a movie like “Sydney White”—which, let’s Sorority Row (2009) be honest, is more of a guilty Depicts: Sorority (duh) pleasure than a cinematic masTheta Nu sisters get killed off one terpiece. Sometimes, using steby one. Find sorority girl, kill so- reotypes just works. rority girl, rinse, repeat. Bottom line: Why are stereotypical sisters the best slasher Monsters University (June 21, 2013) movie victims? Perhaps because, Depicts: Fraternity to the audience, their identi- Monsters Scully and Mike Wazowski meet at a fraternity at Mon215.875.9990 ties are interchangeable; they’re sters University (which has a great website—Google it!). Experience a Touch of Italy merely props for over-the-top Bottom line: Look, the frat brothers could be the heroes, they At the Best BYOB In Philly! death sequences. Or maybe be- could be the villains, who knows. But we’ll watch anything Pixar cause it’s easy to find an excuse hands us. Seats 150 People to make them strip down to their underwear? Guess we’ll 5 Lunches, 7 Dinners, 7 days a week never know.
highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow
MY BIG FAT GREEK MOVIE
13
highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow
FOOD&DRINK
HubBub at 6 A.M.
After four years in finance, Drew Crockett C'05 opened the HubBub truck. We visited him at his brand new brick and mortar to discuss decaf, Penn and life as an entrepreneur. STREET: We know you went to Penn and worked in finance before opening the HubBub truck. Why did you decide to leave banking and start up the truck? DREW CROCKETT: I worked on a trading floor at a bank. Every morning, I would go to a coffee truck, and the guy had figured out how to put an espresso machine in a food truck, which I thought was so cool. Coming from Penn, I knew how normal it was to eat from food trucks, so a lightbulb went off and I was like “how has no one done this before?” Once I had been working for about four years, I got to the point of realizing, I’m either going to do this for the rest of my life, or I’m going to do something else. That was the beginning of the coffee truck.
34TH STREET Magazine January 24, 2013
STREET: How did you tell your parents you were leaving banking to open a coffee truck in West Philly? DC: I grew up in a family business so it was a little bit different. They didn’t think I was too crazy to try and start
Make a Day of It: Logan Square
14 By isabel oliveres
my own business. To leave a good-paying job in 2008 did leave them scratching their heads, my grandma more than anyone.
STREET: Tell us about the process of opening up the coffee shop. DC: I’ve always been looking at spaces but nothing ever jumped out as the right opportunity. I first looked at this space last March, maybe February. Then you have to go through leases, contractors, designing. Construction started technically in August. We were trying to open in November but that didn’t happen.
STREET: How did you choose the name HubBub? DC: “What’s all the hubbub about?” was actually something that my grandmother used to always say. It described what we wanted to do: get people to come together over coffee. Hubbub was originally used to describe gatherings of rowdy crowds protesting something, but over the year it softened its meaning into “a gathering of people.”
STREET: Do you make coffee at home? What’s your favorite way? DC: Yeah. If I was to make an individual cup of coffee for myself, I’d probably do pourSTREET: How did you decide over and use a Chemex. on the space? DC: We were looking at a part STREET: How do you take of the city where we found was your coffee? there was something missDC: Black. ing that we thought we could provide. STREET: What are your thoughts on decaf? STREET: Do you feel you’re DC: Umm... off the record? filling a void of good coffee in [Laughs] A lot more people Center City? drink decaf than you think, DC: Yes, in this part of Center but because it’s not as sexy or City, north of Market. whatever—not that coffee can be sexy—roasters have never
STREET: Have you worked the truck at Fling? DC: Somebody from SPEC asked us about it once, but I think we decided drunk people STREET: Do you feel going to want fried oreos and not cofPenn in any way affected your fee. business-savvy? DC: I think being a Penn stu- STREET: While you were at dent in general, you’re pretty Penn, were you a Blarney boy self-motivated, so you’re going or a Smokes guy? to find people that, regardDC: Both, but we went to less of what school they’re in, Blarney a lot. they’re going to be successful, just because there’s something STREET: What will never be motivating them. on the menu at HubBub? DC: A caramel macchiato. STREET: Would you ever try to get a liquor license so you STREET: Is it mandatory could make Irish coffee? for employees to wear skinny DC: You know what I would jeans and plaid shirts? love to do? I wouldn’t even DC: [Laughs] No, but you need a full liquor license. Have know, it’s in right now. a couple of beers on tap and Hub Bub Coffee Bar: that’s it. It would be great if 1717 Arch Street people could come down here 215-665-1982 and have a beer. @Hububcoffee spent enough time making good decaf. Our decaf from Stumptown is good, but I never drink it.
Don't go home after HubBub. Take your coffee and explore the fun side of Philly's financial district. Study: The Free Library of Philadelphia, 4 blocks away (1901 Vine Street). Put your caffeine buzz to good use: ditch the depths of VP for the spacious halls of the Free Library and catch up on your work (it has free WiFi!). You might even stumble upon a reading by a famous author or an impromptu film screening. Eat: Love Park, 3 blocks away (Broad Street and JFK Boulevard). Take a study break and show mobile vendors some more love. Head to Love Park for an inexpensive bite—it’s home to Philly faves like Vernalicious and the Foo Truck on a rotating basis. Make sure to check out www.chowspotter.com to see who will be grubbing it up that day.
highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow
A non–exhaustive list of everything Drew Crockett did during our two-hour interview. By Abigail Koffler
HubBub Coffee, 6—8a.m.: • received milk delivery from local creamery • made coffee • greeted doorman by name • set up playlist featuring phoenix • ate a yogurt • served two bagels (cinnamon raisin and everything) • supervised new employee Sean as he “dialed in” the espresso
• handing a customer a punchcard • took out the recycling and trash • tweeted from @hubbubcoffee • poured roughly 25 coffees • asked someone what they meant by "tall" • rung up customers on the iPad cash register •reminisced about college drinking and Sigma Chi • made an espresso shot
Honest Tom’s
(44th Street between Locust and Spruce Streets)
Greek Lady's ability to get you your gyro stat originated in a food cart. Owner Dmitri Dimopoulos transitioned the family business from two food carts with a cult following to a single, consistently crowded restaurant back in 2002, when an ideal space became available at 40th and Locust. For Dmitri, one of the best things about the restaurant is catching up with Penn students who were Greek Lady regulars during their college days. He
enjoys “seeing how they have grown over the years, gotten married and had kids,” and is proud to say, “the first thing they do when they come back to campus is eat here.” Signature Dish: Gyros ($6.45). Overdone, but with reason. Really, who can say no to fries and tzatziki in a pita? -Jillian Di Filippo 8
ST
FILM
DO YOU PAY PER VIEW? Film polled you to find out how you are getting your Sunday afternoon movie fixes. Here’s what we learned. BY ANTHONY KHAYKIN
T
Internet is OF for pornFAME fit this mold of overworked Ivy HALL (thanks Avenue Q), the League students well, with only hough we all know the
watch Hugo in theaters. And we
you guess then that Penn students would prefer to get their RomCom fix online with free How three favorites wheels. bedroom is no longer the onlyshed abouttheir 17% of Penn undergrads streaming websites like SideReel area being ceded to digital terri- watching movies at the Rave ev- and Ch131 rather than pay for tory. For every girl with daddy’s ery semester. services provided by Netflix and AmEx, window browsing on But how about the other ste- Redbox? Fifth Avenue has been replaced reotype, the one that says all colWhile 75% of us watch mov(57shopping. Garrett Road, Truck at 38th with online And lege students are poor? The free ies online, nearly 50% pay for FYEs everywhere have movement of information made it. I hear Horrible Bosses — a and virtuArch Streets) ally been rendered useless (pun possible by the interweb makes new release on iTunes — is hysintended) with the existence of terical, but is hoardsiTunes of Pennstore. us Quakers that often goes do un-you might the the Whose recommendations take? make you runit for theBefore multifarious worth students went to 69th noticed on his menu crowded flavored Mexican soda Jarritos. 50 Things are no different here 1.5 salads at 47.7% Other a greater variety of authentic tacos,gets with best selling tacos and To sample at Street Penn, for where the Rave Sweetgreen 40% 40 A Friend and pitchers of the they half grabbed 38th full entrees nearly the lunch traffic atfor the burritos. He claims that the it would and Arch. Don Memo's CinemaBYOT Studies margaritas, of the sopas most infamous midnight screenings of block- authenticity have cost if 30 Major 26.2% opened of as itsHulu represents why his 25% truck 25% has ride the Market–Frankford buster hits the like doors Twilight I had seen it Professor or TA 20 in business for six years: Upper restaurant in been Line toStreet its final westbound does the Darby day after the newest in theaters? 2008 due to demand from all of the recipes he prepares stop. episode of 30 Rock airs. This Ramen noo10 *Students surveyed were the truck’s customers. Leo come from his hometown in Signature Dish: allowed to choose more Tacos makes sense. We Penn students dles al Pastor aren’t than one option. Saavadra, chef and owner 0 Mexico. The spiciness of these ($2 each). One bite and you’re are too busy procrastinating that bad, I WestInTouch Philadelphia’s most thick corn tortillas topped south of the border.guess. A margaonofPenn and designbeloved Mexican food truck, with chicken, steak, carnitas or ing funny lacrosse pinnies for entertainment accessible and rita’sThe bestaverage friend. Penn student a lunch pork (called al pastor) thehas clubs we’resuggestion involved for in to grilled inexpensive to anyone with an (who is anything -Solomon Bassbut average, if leave the comfort of our beds to AirPennNet account. Wouldn’t you ask Amy Gutmann) watch-
Don Memo’s
Dine-In, Catering & Delivery Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 5-7 Lunch Special: Mon-Fri $8.95 Early Bird: Sun-Thur $10.95
PattayaRestaurant.com • 215.387.8533 4006 Chestnut Street • University City
How
47.7
Why d 3.1% 25%
25%
es seven m every semes tic proves t to watch sa than at the tional $20 of popcorn not include tions). The ing seven m less than 30 many conv paid service ing interru buffering an immunity and most im ing to wai watching 72 on Megavid Not to m price to pa the big pictu savings of students wh services rath movie theat tween $196 depending Netflix or i Moral of th judge if you
34TH STREET Magazine January 24, 2013
Greek Lady
(224 S. 40th Street)
hours, customers can stop by for a breakfast burrito ($7) or steak tacos ($6) rain or shine. Signature Dish: Breakfast Tacos ($6). Drag your butt out of bed for these eggs, bacon, potato and guac marvels, available until early afternoon. - Allie Bienenstock 34TH STREET Magazine December 1, 2011
Honest Tom’s Taco Shop has maintained the same crowded atmosphere and devoted clientele it had before switching from a truck to a shop in December 2011. Shop owner Tom McCusker told Street that he decided to open a restaurant to give himself more space and customers more consistency in terms of store hours; he was often unable to operate the truck in the winter and on any cold, rainy or windy days. Because there is now only one location and dependable
34
highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow
MGMT 100: Coffee Entrepreneurship
*A simp of 100 Pen surveyed to 15 their film v
highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow
ARTS
AFTERGLOW Thomas Glassford's sculptural installation creates a neon, modernist jungle.
Christian Hopkins
By BEN BEHREND
34TH STREET Magazine January 24, 2013
“All I’m really trying to do with my photography is remind people that they’re human. I want people to feel from my creations. When you look at my photographs, yes, you are seeing me, but it’s not just me. Maybe, you see yourself, or maybe, you see a friend. Whoever may lie within the frame, you are seeing a human being.”
16
A
t the Moore College of Art & Design, I entered a gallery in flux. There, installationist Thomas Glassford's exhibition, Afterglow, was being assembled. Neon–green Plexiglas tropical leaves hung off golden aluminum rods. They were laid out on the gallery floor, still in half–opened boxes. From its partially installed state, I was able to discern that the final product would resemble an industrial–garden– jungle–gym of sorts, allowing the onlooker to not only observe the installation from afar, but also to stroll through the structure, immersing himself in a glowing futuristic jungle. Walking through the constructed environment offered the comfort of a serene forest, punctuated by the aggressive verticality of the aluminum rods. Glassford has created a world in which the organic is only an artificial atmosphere, in which nature has been replaced by industrial materials. Such hybridization of nature and industry is the staple theme of Glassford’s work and is a notion he makes particularly tangible in Afterglow's experiential nature. Through denseness of the fauna, the nature of Mexico City, Glassford’s hometown, assumes a role in this exhibition, visible in the concrete stands that hold the golden aluminum rods. Glassford previously exhibited Afterglow at the Museo Experimental El Eco, making this the first U.S. debut of the modern minimalist sculptural installation. The exhibition will remain at the Moore College of Art & Design from January 26 to March 16. Be sure to check out the Artist Q & A tonight, January 24th, at 6 p.m. for first–hand insight into the installation (and perhaps some free wine and cheese?).
Check out an extended interview with photographer Christian Hopkins online @34st.com.
highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow
s u p m Ca s Gem HOMAGE TO GEORGIA O’KEEFE As you make your sprint from the Wawa on Spruce to your 9 a.m. class on Locust, cutting through that little courtyard behind McNeil becomes more of a desperate coffee–juggling act than a scenic detour. Believe it or not, a small sculptural piece titled “Homage to Georgia O’Keefe” by Thom Kooney Crawford has been a witness to your acrobatics every morning. Though cast in bronze, the sculpture barely dissociates itself from the foliage, depicting a female silhouette that imitates the slender trunk of a young tree. Her left arm crosses her chest, and a serpent winds its away around the base of her form. Like Crawford’s other works, “Homage to Georgia O’Keefe” plays with negative space in its delicate contours and creates a dialogue with the natural environment within which it is presented. As for the “Homage,” Georgia O’Keefe is best known for her large–scale oil paintings of flowers that resemble the female form. That’s right—vaginas. It seems that in a similar fashion, Crawford emblematizes the original female, a biblical Eve entwined by a serpent, by rooting her in nature, both literally and aesthetically. —Megan Ruben
!
You ShOUld
w w w.r a di a n a p a r t m e n ts .com Individual leases (per person) – w/ utilities included*
Now Leasing for Fall 2013! Spaces going fast!
Washer and dryer in every apartment Internet Cafe & Private study room Ground floor shopping & dining State-of-the art fitness center 2-story city-view clubroom with walkout terrace *restrictions apply on electric usage.
40th & Walnut St.
34TH STREET Magazine January 24, 2013
LIVE HeRE
215.222.4212 17
highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow
strut the
winter 2012
SEEN ON
THE WALK
TRENDS TO TRY
socks
Soviet Russia Look: This Soviet cutie will have you saying privyet to all your Comrades! She is super Cold War–chic with her divine hammer–and–sickle tweed hat. Her vest, denim shirt, belt and industrial book bag all say one thing: “I mean business, and that business involves the KGB.” Try this indie, I–don’t–care– what–this–even-means look ASAP. She puts the strut in strutnik!
Gay Rights Look:
34TH STREET Magazine January 24, 2013
This week’s hottest fashion accessory is making a statement. This sexy rainbow LGBTQ ally is showing everyone that there’s nothing cooler than being hip with homosexuality. The understated look uses every color of the rainbow to bring out her cheekbones. An outfit that the gays will love––and not just because it’s sexy.
18
Christmas–Hanukkah Look: Mad that it can’t be winter all year round? Mad that when it is the holidays, it’s just a bunch of denominational consumer bullshit? That’s exactly what this I’m–not–fucking–around look is saying. Keep warm with Christmas mittens and a Santa hat, but say “I’m just not that into you, Christmas” with an Israeli flag wrapped around you. Why send one message when you could send two? This holiday look is flawless and will hide any imperfections while simultaneously accentuating your sensual assets.
Socks are the perfect thing to put over your feet and into your shoes. Most are made out of fabric and can be found in multiple retail locations such as Burberry or any supermarket. They can be worn for many different occasions, such as going to the gym or going to class. Show off your creative flair with your socks! They come in all different colors. Perhaps mix one color sock with another? It’s up to you!
STYLE CRUSH: GARY BUSEY With his boundless energy and his ever–present grin, it’s no wonder we chose Gary Busey as our style crush of the week. Whether he’s acting in straight–to–DVD movies, appearing on cheap VH1 reality shows or just filing for bankruptcy, Mr. Busey always makes an unforgettable impact. Although he usually just wears black, sometimes Mr. Busey mixes it up with a little brown or even brownish–grey. Sometimes he wears dress pants, other times he wears jeans. More than anything, though, Mr. Busey’s a master stylist. Like Little Orphan Annie, he knows that “you’re never fully dressed without a smile.”
disclaimer: this isn't real. it's a satire.
Make these luxury looks yours without breaking the bank! The hot item:
J. Crew Basket Weave Belt: $75
The hot item:
Gucci card case with coin pocket: $415
Recreate for cheap!
Home Depot Rope: $2
Recreate for cheap!
Penn vinyl ID holder, available at bookstore. $4.98
dummy.
MCAT LSAT MCAT LSAT GRE GRE
GMAT
GMAT
highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow
CHIC FOR CHEAP!
Tutoring
The most personalized offering with the greatest flexibility. Our private tutoring programs are completely customized to your needs, goals, schedule and learning style.
Tutoring Small Group Instruction
With only 4 students per class, this course offers phenomenal flexibilty, as the curriculum is tailored to meet The most personalized withtests, the greatest flexibility. private tutoring programs are completely customyour needs. You’ll takeoffering full-length and have accessOur to on-demand recorded lessons. ized to your needs, goals, schedule and learning style.
Classroom
Prep with our expert instructors. You’ll learn every concept, method and strategy necessary to completely Small Instruction master theGroup test. With only 4 students per class, this course offers phenomenal flexibility, as the curriculum is tailored to meet your needs. You'll taketop-notch full-length, testas andour have access tocourse, on- demand recorded Get the same prep Classroom delivered in ourlessons. state-of-the-art online classroom for the ultimate convenience. You’ll receive online instruction provided by our expert instructors.
Live Online
Classroom
All Students at The University of Pennsylvania receive 15% off online courses
Prep with our expert instructors. You’ll everycode concept method and strategy necessary to completely master withlearn promo PhiPartners15% the test.
Test names are the trademarks of their respective owners, who are not affiliated with The Princeton Review. The Princeton Review is not affiliated with Princeton University.
Live Online
Get the same top-notch as our Classroom course, delivered in our state-of-the-art online classroom for the THE FOLLOWING SECTION IS Aprep PAID ADVERTISEMENT ultimate convenience. You'll receive online instruction provided by our expert instructors.
A guide to bars and nightclubs on or near Penn’s campus
Test names are the trademarks of their respec�ve owners, who are not affiliated with The Princeton Review. The Princeton Review is not affiliated with Princeton University.
— 452-472 N. 9th Street • 215-908-2063 • starlight-ballroom.com
Venue available to book parties!
FREE PIZZA NIGHTS every Wednesday night from 9pm-2am. Industrial/house music night
Club Pulse — 1526 Sansom Street • 215-751-2711 • pulsephilly.com 11:00 p.m. to 3:30 a.m. • Live Band and DJ all Night! • Drink Specials $2 Beer, $3 Mix Drink
NO COVER CHARGE — THU, FRI, SAT AND SUN
WEDNESDAY THURSDAY — — KARAOKE COLLEGE NIGHT NIGHT
34TH STREET Magazine January 24, 2013
34th Street Bar The Guide Starlight Ballroom
All students At The University of Pennsylvania receive 15% off online courses with promo code PhiPartners15%
Copabanana — 40th & Spruce • 215-382-1330 • copabanana.com/uni.php
Copabanana is THE place to go for margaritas! Half price margaritas Mondays from noon to midnight. Happy Hour Mondays to Fridays from 5-7pm. Open late seven days a week! Philly’s award winning DJ Karaoke Joe is now at the Copabanana 40th and Spruce from 9:30 on Thursdays !
Stop in for Sunday brunch!
19
in 2003...
There was a bar on Locust Walk (!!!) for second semester seniors to day drink
Greek Lady was a food truck Bill became president...
in 1993...
high brow film food & drink music feature ego guides low brow give me 5
The Quaker was terrifying
Wharton got a fancy new building to rub in our faces
Shorts were shorter
...and Hilary came to graduation
We were actually good at basketball
Waistlines were higher
FLASHBACK[PAGE] in 1983...
Shorts were even shorter
like accidental-exposureif-you-sit-wrong short
We scoured old yearbooks to see what Penn was like through the ages. They might not have had muploads, but they still got loaded.
Snow didn't stop bros from chilling.
We won the Ivy League and tore down the goalpost
in 1973... in 1963...
34TH STREET Magazine January 24, 2013 20
You had to wait a month for new porn
Steiney-D was rebuilt and they made commemorative t-shirts
Allegro opened There was pre-med...
New Deck had different digs
Instead of $10 margs at Copa, you could get penny beers at Billybob
Tons of beautiful historic houses were destroyed to build the fugly high rises
McDonald's was the perfect place for drunchies... and passing out
...and then there was SUPA PRE-MED Guys had to wear jackets and ties to dinner
Van Pelt opened and everyone smoked cigs inside
The bell in Houston was used as a punch bowl
THERE WAS A WHITE CASTLE!!!!!!!
Smokes was at 34th and Walnut
Drunk girls still photobombed pics
dru
nk