BAY Magazine Summer 2011 by Bay Magazine

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summer11

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Into the Wild a magazine written for and by the bay area youth

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CONTENTS EDITOR’S THOUGHTS

READ:

GREEN:

LISTEN INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC

PHOTO COURTESY OF: KEVIN LIN

THINK 22

HUMAN JUNGLE

NUCLEAR ENERGY

EAT

REVIEW: BAI TONG

13 WATCH: HARRY POTTER

FEATURE: INTO THE WILD

GO/TRAVEL

FEATURE:

THE TRENDIEST OF THE BAY AREA

23 WEAR 23 BAYMAGAZINE.ORG SUMMER2011

STAFF

bay magazine

business and PR director layout editor social media director web editor photo editor eat/listen editor go/travel editor green editor read/watch editor wear editor copy editor editorial

business public relations

layout

social media photography

T.T. Tu Kevin Lin Sophie Kang Tiffany Hu Sonika Singh Christy Chen Charlotte Jones Anthony Sutardja Briana Zimmers Mia Taper Kevin Lin Shreya Indukuri Jacqueline Gu Samantha Donat Edward Dong Aditi Ashok Alejandra Ortiz Anshu Siripurapu Brian Benton Isha Kawatra Monica Cai Nicole Dalal Sunli Kim Vivian LeTran Zara Sheikh Ashley Tang Raghav Bhardwaj Allison Bruno Allison Toh Catherine Lin Helen Carefoot Sasan Saadat Sophie Mattson Yash Chitneni Megan Kao Priyanka Arunkumar Amanda Olson Sayumi Hasegawa Sally Kim Cody Cai Austin Yu Ramiz Sheikh Charles Stotz Laura Yau Zohar Liebermensch

bay

summer11

magazine

Into the Wild Cover photos courtesy of: Austin Yu 4

SUMMER2011 BAYMAGAZINE.ORG

a magazine written for and by the bay area youth

PHOTO OURTESY OF: AUSTIN YU

founder managing editor editorial director

EDITOR’S THOUGHTS

Editor’s Thoughts

t’s finally summer. Yes, we’ve made it past the school year, doomsday rapture, and May rains so now it’s finally on to the endless sun saturated days of summer. But don’t give yourself a pat on the back too easily. Take this summer as an opportunity to get out there, get out into the wild. Now, that doesn’t necessarily mean you should bust out your hiking boots (though you’re certainly welcome to do that too), just take the extra step to do something a little bit wild. Listen to a new folksy sound, read something that makes you a tad uncomfortable, or buy something zany from the flea market— anything to make this summer more memorable and more spontaneous than the last. —Sophie Kang Editorial Director

PHOTO COURTESY OF: SOPHIE KANG

BAYMAGAZINE.ORG SUMMER2011

GREEN

Is Nuclear Energy Safe?

by EDWARD DONG

Since the devastating earthquake of 9.0 magnitude in Japan, the world has been shaken. eople around the world fear the negative effects of nuclear power plant construction. Proponents and apponents of nuclear energy are working to keep developing nuclear technology and finding a safer alternative, respectively. Others believe that there is a middle ground that can balance safety while continuing the development of alternative technology.

Jack Takahashi

Ben Chan

“The crises in Japan have, I think, revealed that the technology underlying nuclear power plants may be more dangerous than people think.”

Jack Takahashi (Lynbrook High): “During its worst moments, the damaged reactor didn’t emit enough radiation to cause a measurable increase in cancer risk. There was no real danger at Fukushima other than the hydrogen explosions.”

(Lynbrook High)

(Bellarmine College Preparatory)

“No energy source is without fault, and all we can do is make those sources of energy as safe and efficient as possible.”

Heather Sabel (Saratoga High)

Keegan Mendoca

The Fukushima disaster

On March 11, 2011, a 9.0 magnitude earthquake shook the eastern coast of Japan. The pumps in the Fukushima nuclear plant lost their electricity, and the back-up diesel generators kicked in to maintain the circulation of water to cool the reactor. But when the subsequent tsunami struck, the diesel generators failed as well. Hydrogen gas explosions led to the release of steam and radiation. In response, the Japanese government began to evacuate residents living within a 10 kilometer radius. What can we learn from the Fukushima crisis?

SUMMER2011 BAYMAGAZINE.ORG

(Lynbrook High)

“In the case of a major reactor meltdown, as in Chernobyl, the consequences would be devastating.”

GREEN

Nuclear energy tomorrow The success of nuclear energy in America depends on our attitude. As the Fukushima crisis revealed, the ultimate damage of a nuclear disaster falls upon the people. Therefore, it is the people’s responsibility to set safety standards and to ascertain that facilities operate in accordance to those standards. We cannot afford to indulge in ignorance. Moreover, not every disaster can be predicted. If we choose to pursue nuclear power, we must prepare ourselves to accept all consequences—no matter how unlikely they appear to us today.

“I strongly support the construction of more nuclear power plants in California. If the United States does not utilize new nuclear technology to power its infrastructure, we will be stuck with soon-ending, polluting fossil fuels.”

Jack Takahashi (Lynbrook High)

“Although I am a proponent of using nuclear energy to get power, I believe that the government should put less emphasis on nuclear energy and instead put more money and effort into promoting the much cleaner solar energy.”

Amol Aggarwal (Saratoga High)

Heather Sabel

Ben Chan

“Probably in 30 years we will be relying on power sources that we don't even know about yet. Wind energy and solar energy, in my opinion, are the best options because they are renewable, infinite, and best of all, clean.”

“I believe that there has to be some way to more safely and efficiently utilize nuclear power than the methods currently employed. It can be safe.”

(Saratoga High)

(Bellarmine College Prepatory)

Nuclear power in the Bay Area The Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant began operating in 1985. Like the Fukushima power plant, Diablo Canyon is equipped with back-up diesel generators. However, the Diablo Canyon plant sits 85 feet above sea level so the probability of a tsunami disabling the diesel generators is extremely low. On the other hand, the Diablo Canyon plant was only designed to withstand a 7.5 magnitude quake. The 1906 San Francisco Earthquake had a magnitude of 7.7-7.9. The tremor in Japan measured 9.0. Is nuclear energy inherently dangerous? Should the government support it?

BAYMAGAZINE.ORG SUMMER2011

GREEN

Bay Area Wildlife Refuges

PHOTO OURTESY OF: AUSTIN YU

by NICOLE DALAL

Whether you’re an animal enthusiast, love taking hikes and exploring nature, or simply interested in learning more about conservation efforts in the Bay Area to preserve diversity, you might find it worth your time to check out some of these wildlife preserves! Maybe you could even squeeze in a few volunteer hours! Año Nuevo State Park 1 New Years Creek Road Pescadero, CA 94060 Located 55 miles south of San Francisco, Año Nuevo was first discovered by Spanish maritime explorer Sebastian Vizcaino in 1603; fortunately, the point remains much as it was when Vizcaino first spotted it, undeveloped and isolated. Año Nuevo is the site of the largest breeding colony for the northern elephant seal, which breed upon the beach during the winter season from December through March. Throughout the summer, people visit to observe the on the beaches through a permit system, and watching these magnificent creatures has drawn much interest in the past 19 years. Año Nuevo also contains native dunes, coastal terrace plant habitats, and a diversity of inland plant habitats. When you visit, you may spot the steelhead trout, coho salmon, a rare San Francisco garter snake, or a red-legged frog; the park is absolutely abounding with so many diverse animals! Consider visiting Año Nuevo to really experience nature untouched by mankind.

Don Edwards S. F. Bay National Wildlife Refuge  9500 Thornton Ave  Newark, CA 94560 Named in honor of the Congressman’s efforts to protect San Francisco Bay wetlands, the Don Edwards S.F. Bay National Wildlife Refuge includes 30,000 acres of salt ponds, open bay, salt marshes, and pool habitants throughout the south San Francisco Bay. As the salt marshes were converted to commercial salt ponds in early 20th century, Edwards sought the protection of the remaining 15% of the marshes not altered by commercial interests. The refuge provides shelter for over 280 species of birds each year during the spring and fall migration seasons. In addition, the refuge is home to endangered species such as the California clapper rail bird and the salt marsh harvest mouse. You can visit the Environmental Education Center, go

SUMMER2011 BAYMAGAZINE.ORG

GREEN

» a natural disaster J

by SHREYA INDUKURI

apan Tsunami. Haiti Earthquake. Hurricane Katrina. 2004 Indian Ocean Earthquake and Tsunami. Do all of these natural disasters have a correlation to global warming? How? These past 11 years have been some of the “hottest” years in the world in terms of CO2 concentration in the atmosphere. Mankind is responsible for this with our rapidly increasing carbon footprint. Because of general global warming, ice sheets have been melting rapidly. When this ice melts, the earth’s crust bounces back up again and that triggers earthquakes, which trigger submarine landslides that can cause tsunamis. NASA’s experiments show that glacial earthquakes can generate far more powerful tsunamis than undersea earthquakes with similar magnitude. In Japan’s case, inexorable movement of the Pacific tectonic plate caused the earthquake as the tectonic plate thrust underneath Japan. The Pacific plate is moving at a rate of about four inches per year, but in some places it becomes stuck. When the plates move again from their “struck” state, a destructive earthquake like the one Japan is the result. Ultimately, climate change and global warming are not solely responsible for the natural disasters we’ve seen in the past few years. But, if we continue to deplete our resources without alternative forms of clean energy, these natural disasters are just warnings for the grand calamities yet to come. Our wonderful Bay Area is a danger zone for a future earthquake so let’s do what we can to prevent that from happening--even the little things like carpooling, being conscious of our energy use, and recycling make a difference!

BAYMAGAZINE.ORG SUMMER2011

LISTEN

Instrumental Bands by PARTHIV MOHAN

Despite there being a great deal of fantastic instrumental music out there, it is often neglected by teenagers. Here are some bands that are worth your time:

SUMMER2011 BAYMAGAZINE.ORG

PHOTOS OURTESY OF: M83,MOGWAI, SIGUR ROS

any of you have probably heard of the band Explosions in the Sky, the Texan instrumental band that rose to prominence after recording the soundtrack for the popular show, “Friday Night Lights.” For the uninitiated, their songs can each be summed up as mini-symphonies with rock instrumentation. The appeal here lies in the minimalism. A song can begin with a lilting electric guitar melody and incrementally build up to a percussive wall of sound. The lack of vocals is never a problem – in fact, it makes you soak in the more minute details; the reverberation of the guitar, the ring of the cymbal and the stately drum beat. Their music has a soothing nature which is perfect for late night studying. Scottish band Mogwai’s dynamic contrast is startling. “Like Herod,” from their first album, Young Team, opens with a menacing bass line that just barely shimmers on the surface and allows unease to creep in. Yet the sudden cathartic explosion of sound always comes as a brilliantly deployed surprise. Mogwai is one of the mainstays of the post-rock scene, the favorite instrumental band of many instrumental bands. Although some of their newer songs have occasionally included vocals, their pure, older work, particularly their 1995 debut, is still their best output. Their heavy use of distortion and drones creates an ambient sound that is otherworldly. If songs by Explosions in the Sky are mini-symphonies, then these are the real deal. The average length of the band Godspeed You Black Emperor’s monumental compositions is around 21.5 minutes with a few “movements” within each one. This Canadian band mixes strings, guitar, brass and more with eerie drones to create compositions that feel as if they’re being improvised. Muddled crescendos and sampled public announcements are strewn throughout the mix. The whole effect creates a despair which is arresting and evocative – but don’t let the “despair” part put you off. Their music is an emotional roller-coaster but a very compelling one. Other bands which aren’t quite instrumental but can nearly be classified as such are bands like Sigur Rós and M83, where the vocals are just part of the sonic texture and not the main focus. In Sigur Rós, the vocals are sung in unintelligible lyrics, serving to create the ethereal atmosphere that is so unique to the band. M83 uses synthesizers to create lush soundscapes which completely immerse the listener in their dreamy vibe. Overall, all of this music is fundamentally different from what’s on the charts today, yet all of it is hugely rewarding and worth a shot.

LISTEN

feature:

Molly Tuttle by BRIAN BENTON

Bluegrass/Folk Musician

PHOTO COURTESY OF: MOLLY TUTTLE

hen Molly Tuttle sings, it is unlike any other 17-year-old voice most have ever heard. Usually paired with layers of guitar or banjo, Tuttle’s words are smooth and sweet, yet still incredibly mature. Her notes oscillate between high and low in a way that is almost indescribable, but amazingly appealing and intriguing. Molly says her biggest singing influence is Gillian Welch, a Grammy award-winning bluegrass singer-songwriter from Nashville, and it shows; Molly is 25 years younger than her idol, but their voices sound almost alike - and that’s a good thing. Molly’s introduction to playing music began at age eight, when her father brought home a guitar for her to try playing. She added singing to her résumé soon after, first experimenting with simple harmonies as back up for the band she played in at the time, and working her way to full songs. Now, Molly also plays the banjo, mandolin and harmonica. “I started just on guitar, [because] I kind of wanted to learn,” Molly said. “It took a while to get into [music]. I never really disliked it, but at first, it was kind of a struggle to learn new songs.” That initial struggle was soon left behind, and music has been Molly’s passion ever since. She began performing traditional bluegrass music in concert at the age of ten with her family (her father is primarily a fiddler and teaches music, and her two younger brothers play mandolin and guitar), and since then, has seen her audiences grow from just a handful of local fans to groups in the thousands. “Our biggest show was the Strawberry Music Festival [which was] this fall in Yosemite, and a few years ago I got to play the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival in San Francisco,” Molly said. “[My favorite show] was probably Strawberry, because it was really fun to go backstage and meet all the amazing musicians. Playing onstage was amazing, too.” Molly is now trying to schedule more solo shows, and would like to establish herself as a solo singer-songwriter. Even with this newfound individualism though, Molly still loves playing with her father and brothers, both

for performance purposes or just at home for fun. “At home I always have someone to play with if I want to jam or just play with other people,” Molly said. “And it’s always good to have someone else to play with if you [need help] with something specific.” One of Molly’s largest musical accomplishments with her family was releasing their recent album, Introducing the Tuttles. The Tuttles worked on the album, which is available for purchase at http://www. jacktuttle.com, all throughout last summer so it could be sold when they played at the Strawberry Festival. “[The CD] went really well,” Molly said. “I wrote one of the songs, and then we used songs from Bob Dylan, Gillian Welch, other [folk and bluegrass musicians] and some traditional songs.” Next, Molly would like to record a solo album, showcasing some of the handful of original songs she has written over the years. Molly says she has written about ten songs that she really enjoys playing, but has dozens more that are incomplete or have been pushed aside. “[When I’m writing a song], I start out usually on guitar, just by playing chords, and then I’ll come up with a melody just by humming along and start singing random words that

pop into my head,” she said. “Sometimes it’ll take a long time, or sometimes I can write [a song] in five minutes.” Writing bluegrass music is especially difficult, as it involves a strict set of lyrical and structural rules. Although the songs may sound like the popular folk music of bands like Mumford and Sons or the Avett Brothers at first listen, a song must follow a set of guidelines to be considered actual bluegrass. “[Bluegrass and folk] are definitely rooted with some of the same [themes], but bluegrass has very set guidelines for what it can be,” Molly said. “It’s usually a five piece band with fiddle, banjo, mandolin, guitar and bass, and the songs will go break, verse, chorus and then an instrumental break. It’s very specific.” Molly enjoys listening to all types of music, but when it comes to playing and singing, bluegrass is at the top of her list. Her dedication to the genre is clear, as shown by her daily practice sessions. As Molly’s high school years come to an end, she hopes music can remain in her life. “I want to go to Berklee School of Music, which is a music college [in Boston] and I’m hoping to be a professional musician,” she said with a smile. BAYMAGAZINE.ORG SUMMER2011

READ

Human Jungle o matter how old or “ outdated” literature seems to be, all classic novels resonate with us because the troubles the protagonists deal with still exist in our modern-day society. Even with the highest modes of technology we enjoy today, especially on the Internet, we fearlessly exhibit parts of our inner “ jungle” and wilderness, the cruelty we suppress off the screen because it’ s unacceptable to have a face to it in society. Beloved (Toni Morrison) Beloved, by Toni Morrison, explores the pain and the disappearance of moral boundaries in the quest of righteousness and human dignity. The gruesomeness the novel exhibits comes with purpose, and the novel highlights the extent of the wrongs slavery has stamped on an entire people by showing how actions we today would consider as “evil” become a demonstration of love. The novel explores the story of the Other, the supposedly uncivilized, and brings to light the truth that “definitions [belong] to the definers–not the defined.” As Herman Hesse wisely reflected, “ One can only hate what one hates within himself.” Often disregarding the accepted conventions of grammar as a polite middle finger to literary fathers and the masculine influence on language in general, Morrison’ s feminine, poetic language delivers a powerful emotional impact on the reader. A relatively easy read, Beloved will indeed become a greatly appreciated book to place on your shelf! Heart of Darkness (Joseph Conrad) Not even a full 72 pages, Heart of Darkness is an incredibly dense book that essentially criticizes the imperialistic mindset of the Europeans and their inhuman cruelty in their treatment of the “savage” natives. Anyone smell hypocrisy? Through the tortured account of Marlow’ s quest to find Kurt, an ivory trader who has somehow captivated the natives of a certain region in the heart of the Congolese jungles, Conrad delivers piercing, psychological insights on the monstrosity that exists in all men, even those who are considered a part of civilized society. Every page and paragraph is a jungle in itself, often in the form of obsessively observant stream-of-consciousness. It’ s a difficult read, but at the end of the struggle the pain is all worth the beauty of the message! The Jungle (Upton Sinclair) Chicago is still in its early stages, when the city was most focused on the meat industry. Sinclair follows the story of a poor Lithuanian immigrant family who comes to America in hopes of a brighter future. Instead, the members encounter the jungle within civilization. They discover how poverty can cripple and break a family, and how cruel people can become in order to take advantage of society’ s system. All this working-class drama occurs in the disgusting meat factories and the surrounding tenements and slums. Clearly, technology is not the only definition of civilization. The things we all do for money, right?

SUMMER2011 BAYMAGAZINE.ORG

PHOTO OURTESY OF: WWW.FREE-PHOTOS.BIZ

by SUNLI KIM

READ

poetry by ISHA LAST NAME

by EDWARD DONG

used to think reading poetry was a waste of time. Instead of splurging three hours on the impenetrable passages of Shakespeare or Wordsworth, I could finish my chores and study for chemistry. I could save enough time to help at the Math Club fundraiser. I could even start college applications, search for internship opportunities, or read two more chapters of Life of Pi. Two summers ago, however, one poem upended my entire list of priorities. On a sultry day in July, I found myself with extra time on my hands, so I biked to the library and picked up a copy of New and Selected Poems—a poetry collection by Mary Oliver. Without much thought, I flipped through the pages. I came upon a poem titled “The Summer Day,” and these words caught my eye: “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” I tried to fabricate a respectable response. Get into a prestigious college? Become a doctor? Raise my GPA? Every teenager in the Bay Area recognizes the importance of such aspirations. But suddenly, those goals grew lackluster. “One wild and precious life.” My pulse quickened with a vague sense of discovery, even though I had not yet contrived a response worthy of the question. I began to read the poem for inspiration. A grasshopper “who is eating sugar out of my hand…who is gazing around with her enormous and complicated eyes.” A voice in the back of my mind suggested that I shut the book and search for some SAT preparation instead. “What’s the point?” the voice asked. “Who cares about the grasshopper? What you need to worry about is getting into Harvard.” But I continued to read. “I don’t know exactly what a prayer is,” the poem said. “I do know how to pay attention… how to stroll through the fields, which is what I have been doing all day.” I looked out the large library window. The landscape appeared different. Somewhere in the leaves and in the clouds I noticed a rare beauty that I had not seen before. The sky waxed bluer and calmer. For a moment, I observed the world. “Doesn’t everything die at last, and too soon?” The dusty tomes of test preparation, from which I had once derived so much satisfaction, seemed less important. Why had I sped through each day, from classes to activities and meetings, without ever pausing to look around? I decided then that I needed to begin appreciating life right away. I also learned to appreciate poetry. The natural world, which has inspired the work of so many poets, is something to which we can still relate. Like good novels, poetry has revealed to me new perspectives, new facets into the richness of life. Despite the constricting pressure of high school, I still find time to explore the world through poetry. It is amazing what a few lines can do. That afternoon, when I left the library, I smelled the evening air for the first time. I gazed toward the western sky and listened to the woodland concert of crickets and frogs. There was so much to observe and to experience. Since then, I’ve discovered several ways to keep reading poetry throughout the year. Former poet laureate Billy Collins understood the unrelenting pace of teenage life when he compiled Poetry 180 for high school students. He suggests reading just one poem a day. When I first borrowed the book from the public library, I did not know whether or not I had the time. But in ensuing weeks, I found that the two minutes I spent daily were more than worthwhile. After I finished the anthology, I made a list of memorable poets and continued to read their work. After a hectic school year, summertime is just around the corner again. When I get the chance, I’ll push aside the chemistry and let poetry inspire me instead. Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your wild and precious summer?

BAYMAGAZINE.ORG SUMMER2011

EAT

restaurant review:

bai tong

by Anshu Siripurapu

decoration and music playing in the background. The two servers are extremely friendly and add their own warmth to the already inviting atmosphere. Although small, the restaurant does not lack for cleanliness or elegance and the eating experience is exemplary. On my first encounter with Bai Tong, I stopped by during lunch with a friend and we both sampled their lunch combination: Thai Rolls, Tom Kha soup and Pad Thai with Chicken. The rolls were delicious but even more impressive was the soup, a delectable concoction of coconut milk with tofu, lemon grass, mushrooms and other delicacies. When the Pad Thai arrived it also outshone the same dish at other Thai establishments, the traditional rice noodles bore their customary sweetness and were complimented by the crushed peanuts sprinkled on top. Although slightly on the expensive side, the bill was $12, the quality of the food more than made up for the expense. After such a satisfying lunch, I made a resolution to return for dinner, which I did a few days after. Flipping through the menu it was evident that Bai Tong

SUMMER2011 BAYMAGAZINE.ORG

had a wide variety of Thai delicacies to sample, ranging from the Pad Ma Kuer, a dish with sauteed eggplant, chicken and bell peppers to the Pad King, a mouth watering ensemble of garlic, onion, ginger, pepper and mushroom. However, after examining the menu for several minutes, I finally selected my dinner. For appetizer I sampled the chicken satay, a staple of Thai restaurants, that consists of skewered grilled chicken served with a delicious peanut sauce. The chicken was tender and excellently flavored and the sauce complimented it perfectly. Needless to say, the appetizer left me eager to sample the rest of Bai Tong’s delights. For the main course I decided to sample two dishes, the Pad “J” an entree of sautéed eggplant and green beans, and the Panang Curry with tofu along with white rice. To my delight, neither dish disappointed me. Arriving in beautiful white-and-blue porcelain dishes, the food was cooked to perfection. The eggplant and beans in the Pad J had a lovely texture and the house special sauce they were drenched in was tangy with a hint of spice that made for an excellent dish.

The Panang Tofu was exquisite, the coconut milk gave the dish a little sweetness that gelled perfectly with the host of Thai seasoning. After savoring my dinner I rejoiced at the fact that I had found such a jewel so close to home. My family and I come to Bai Tong on a regular basis now and are never disappointed. On Friday nights and weekends, getting a seat can be difficult but for lunch and on most weekends the service is reasonably quick and very friendly. If you are in search of a delicious Thai restaurant in the Bay Area, look no further.

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lthough often criticized for its lack of excitement and compared to the bustling downtown of Los Gatos, the downtown area of Saratoga holds one unique charm, Bai Tong. Nestled between a small salon and jeweler, Bai Tong surprised me with its excellent food and is, in my mind one of the finest Thai restaurants in the South Bay Area. The restaurant’s facade is deceptively simple, a small neon sign greets customer and informs that the restaurant is indeed open for business. Once inside, the establishment is tiny with a single room that can seat only twenty patrons at a time. Still, the ambiance is charming with unique Thai

EAT

Breakfast Spots Delicious bites for the early risers

PHOTOS COURTESY OF: AUSTIN YU

ituated in a small building off San Antonio Road in Los Altos lies a quaint breakfast spot. Sure, it may be small, but don’ t let the size throw you off. Once you enter, your nose is greeted with warm, delicious smells of breakfast foods. The walls are decorated with pictures of the restaurant’s history ranging from the drawings of young patrons to the celebrities that have passed through. The restaurant is always well-lit with both natural and artificial light. The waiters and waitresses are patient and prompt. When you look at the menu, you’ll see popular items such as the Dutch Baby, Apple Pancake and Bacon Pancakes. What’s this place exactly? It’s the Original Pancake House! The Original Pancake House is a family-owned restaurant established in 1953. In the beginnings of the Original Pancake House, the founders even had housewives sending in their own homemade recipes to the restaurant! In the Bay Area, they have locations in Los Altos, San Jose and Fremont. Even though the restaurant is now in its third family generation of ownership, this doesn’t mean the food has lost any of its original quality. The breakfast food at the Original

» 39222 Fremont Blvd. Fremont, California

» 1366 South De Anza Blvd. San Jose, California

by Anshu Siripurapu

Pancake House is truly unique; you won’t find any of these delectable meals anywhere else. Where else would you find Hawaiian Pancakes: “fresh buttermilk pancakes filled with crushed pineapple and lightly dusted with powdered sugar served with whipped butter and hot tropical syrup?” Aside from their originals, maybe you’d be interested in trying their nationally acclaimed Dutch Baby: an oven baked pancake served with powdered sugar, lemon and whipped butter. And you really can’ t miss out on their Bacon Pancakes: buttermilk pancakes stuffed with bacon bits and served with the warmest, tastiest syrup around the Bay Area. Not into pancakes? Totally fine, because the Original Pancake House also serves several different types of waffles, omelettes, cereals, crepes and fruits. Come on over to one of their three Bay Area locations, support a family-owned business and enjoy the most amazing breakfast food you’ll ever receive! You’ll be satisfied, guaranteed. For more information, check out their website at http://originalpancakehouse. com or visit one of the Bay Area locations listed below.

» 420 South San Antonio Road Los Altos, California

» 2306 Almaden Rd., Suite 150 San Jose, California

BAYMAGAZINE.ORG SUMMER2011

PHOTOS OURTESY OF: BRiAN bENTON

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Flea Markets No fleas, but sure to please!

by BRIAN BENTON

ne Saturday each month, the Palo Alto High School theater parking lot is taken over by a sea of umbrella-covered booths and a swarm of shoppers. Some are pulling bright red wagons and others are weighed down with cloth shopping bags. Many people pass by the scene without paying much attention to the ruckus that is taking place, but those who decide to stop are almost always glad that they did. Flea markets like this one are like garage sales taken to the extreme. Dozens of people join together to sell everything from vintage clothing and homemade crafts to old computer parts and antique chairs, while hundreds more come to look around and buy some of the myriad goods. With just one hundred vendors, the Palo Alto Flea Market is fairly small but has a treasure trove of great finds. The market has a tight-knit, welcoming atmosphere and boasts a surprisingly high ratio of quality books, records, and vintage clothing, to overpriced junk which is held on the second Saturday of every month from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The prices are extremely low, so there is nothing to lose for buying an obscure item. One of the best booths to check out has miniature bicycles crafted out of metal coat hangers and other recycled scraps. The bikes are a bit expensive—starting at $20—but are as unique a gift as you can find. Elsewhere throughout the Bay Area there are numerous other flea markets, most of which also take place on Saturdays and offer a different selection of specialties and oddities that can only be found at that individual location. One of the biggest and most popular is the De Anza Flea Market, which takes place on the first Saturday of each month from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The market is huge, boasting over 700 vendors and thousands of shoppers each month. Booths feature everything from handmade animal themed beanies to vintage movie posters and even old film cells. Two of the vendors are Loren and Liz Olk, who make “recycled and upcycled” license plate art that consists of sliced up license plates mounted on old planks of plywood to spell words. On the other side of the stadium-sized market is Steven DeCarlo’s stall, one of a handful of booths that focuses on selling action figures, Lego pieces, and Hot Wheels toy cars. DeCarlo’s booth stands out among the rest though because of its huge collection of pieces, especially its tiny Lego figurines that are neatly lined up like soldiers in glass cases, as well as its dedication to vintage and specialty pieces. A young boy and his mother approach the booth, and DeCarlo instantly walks over to share a bit of knowledge on the car the boy is interested in. DeCarlo enthusiastically tells the boy that cars like the one he is holding have not been made for about eight years now, and that it’s only available in a few stores. For the boy, the car may just be a new toy to play with, but for DeCarlo, it’s a way to share his love of figurines and collectibles with the world. “I’ve been coming [to the market] for as long as I can remember,” DeCarlo said. “I always encourage people to come [to my stall] often because what I’m selling is always changing.” DeCarlo’s toy booth is right next to a garage sale-esque booth with a hodge-podge of video games, $5 shirts and pants and backpacks, among other things and directly across from a couple selling “reggae wear and novelties,” who are playing “No Woman, No Cry” by Bob Marley from a pair of black speakers. A few spaces down is a vendor with about 100 golf clubs for sale for about $10 each, who is next to a man selling handmade Mexican pottery and another who focuses on baseball hats and belts. This wide array of vendors is what makes the De Anza Flea Market worth a visit. And of course, for hungry shoppers the market also includes a food court stocked with hot dogs, lemonade, teriyaki bowls, shave ice, and churros. A trip to a flea market does not always end with a closet full of new clothes or a new book to read, but it does usually leave you with a smile on your face and the feeling of a day well spent. Parts of this article are adapted from a story that first appeared in the Palo Alto High School Campanile in 2011.

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SATURDAY

NIGHTS by ALEJANDRA ORTIZ

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Have you ever found yourself sitting around on a weekend night with nothing to do, and you desperately need to conquer your boredom? Next time you have the urge to spice up your life, look at this list. Whether it’s a night on your own or in a group, you’ll be entertained for those otherwise boring weekend evenings.

There are several bike trails running up and down California. Just enter “bike trails” into Google and you’ll discover various paths along beaches and rivers that will get you in touch with your earthy side. There’s nothing like the feeling of the wind on your face and absorbing in the sights on a bicycle. Bring some friends along and make it a group trip or ride solo and enjoy the independent time. The trails running through the Baylands near Palo Alto are often uncrowded and great places to go for anyone in need of getting away from the noise of traffic and the constant buzzing of electronics.

(650) 367-1906 http://www.malibugrandprix.com/site/Redwood/index.html Well, how’s this for exciting – a night of go-karting! Malibu Grand-Prix is a great place to go as they also have a great arcade. You can race against your friends or improve your own maneuvering skills. It’s a surefire way to have fun on a Saturday night.

Going to the movies is fun but checking out a drive-in theater is a whole different experience. With the sky above you and a cute guy or girl next to you, you’re bound to enjoy it! Or take a large group of friends and meet up before to stock up on snack foods. Regardless of the number of people, it will be a memorable night.

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Whether it’s at the park or the beach, channel your inner-pyromaniac and have a bonfire with your friends. Just grab a few logs along with lighter fluid and matches and you’re ready to go. There are many places in Santa Cruz that permit them; just make sure to call in advance! Don’t forget the marshmallows, graham crackers and chocolate for the perfect s’mores. There are so many different things to do and to see at Pier 39: Shopping, dining, attractions, live music and street performers, just to name a few! Check out the magic shop or have a sourdough bowl of clam chowder…the possibilities are endless. Caltrain and BART both lead to San Francisco, find out which works better for you on their websites and take a day or night trip.

There are plenty of organizations that need volunteers all day. Volunteering can be a great way to discover things about yourself. Knowing you are helping and making a difference in your community is satisfying. If you are looking for an especially adventurous volunteering experience, try helping out at a needle exchange program in your area. It will be an eye-opening experience that you will always remember.

(650)965-9800 http://laserquest.com/Locations/USALocations.aspx?cntr=Mountain%20View If you have watched one too many thrillers and want to put your gun wielding to the test, entice your buddies to play a game of laser tag where everyone wears infrared-sensitive targets and no one is safe. LaserQuest in Mountain View has overnighters every month for those groups of friends who want to be entertained till 6 am.

There are so many talented artists and bands touring the Bay Area this summer; go onto Ticketmaster.com and see what is coming to your town. Some of these artists include Iron and Wine, Adele, Bruno Mars, Death Cab for Cutie, Florence and the Machine, Rihanna, and Matt and Kim to name a few. There is something for everyone so make sure not to miss out!

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Is your bland and lifeless wall leaving you tired and uninspired? Don’t just sit there, do something! Get a huge sheet of paper, a handful of friends, and start painting. This can get messy, so make sure to wear dispensable clothing. By having your friends write personal messages, draw unique doodles or even a mural, you’ll have a wall ready to entertain your mind on a melancholy, lonely night. (P.S. If you can paint on your wall, do it!) If you’re a devoted golfer, it’s never a bad idea to perfect that swing, and if you’ve never been on a real course in your life, don’t sweat it. Mini golf is for everyone. It’s fun on a sunny day and gorgeous on those warm summer nights when the lights of the miniature golf course illuminate the game.

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Summer Camps R emember the days when summer meant lacing up your hiking boots and going off to wilderness camp? Or maybe you were the intellectual type, and your summers involved putting on a lab coat and heading off to science camp. A lot of us were campers in our youth, and contrary to popular belief, we can have the same type of summer as teenagers too. A popular summer activity for teenagers is working as a camp counselor, which not only provides monetary stipends or volunteer hours, but also lets us reclaim a bit of our forgotten youth. Check out these Bay Area camps with counselor opportunities for teenagers, and be prepared to have an amazing summer.

by ADITI ASHOK

Walden West Located in the Saratoga Hills, Walden West provides all the fun of an outdoor camp at a convenient distance for kids ages 6-12. A typical day in the life of a camper involves hiking in the morning and various activities in the afternoon such as archery, swimming, friendship bracelet making and much more. Counselors are assigned to a group, and are responsible for supervising and participating in camp sponsored activities. Walden West is a day camp, but for older campers and counselors, there is an overnight stay on the final day. Walden West has three unique programs: Summer Camp, Wild Things, and Core Crew. The Wild Things group consists of 4 and 5 year olds, and Core Crew volunteers assist with the rock climbing wall and high ropes course. If you want to kick back and have a good time out in the wilderness, Walden West is the camp for you.

o l e s R n u A o U c G r E p e F I m e L a t c th un u l Website: http://www.sccoe.k12.ca.us/waldenwest/ Positions: Summer Camp Volunteer, School Year Volunteer Timings: Full-day, can volunteer for 1 week in each program.

Youth Science Institute Youth Science Institute (YSI) is the go-to camp for aspiring young scientists aged 4-12. A day in the life of a camper involves hiking, conducting experiments, making creations from natural and recycled materials, and examining wildlife. Employees help with supervising groups and assist instructors with projects and activities, such as arts and crafts and hikes. YSI locations are in Vasona and Alum Rock parks. If you want to work with curious, highly motivated children, YSI is the place to go. Website: http://www.ysi-ca.org/index.html Positions: Summer Camp Aide Timings: Full-day, three week minimum

Camp Galileo Camp Galileo provides an opportunity for children to engage in hands-on art, science and outdoor activities. Camps are located throughout the Peninsula, South Bay, East Bay, and San Francisco Area, proving for easy access to a phenomenal summer. Counselors have the opportunity to work with a group leader and a paid summer intern would assist with various tasks around the camp. The hands on nature of Camp Galileo combined with camp traditions makes for a fantastic summer job. Website: http://www.galileo-learning.com/ Positions: Summer Intern Timings: Full-day, 6-8 weeks

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BIG BASIN CAMPING An extraordinary camping experience

by VIVIAN LETRAN

SUMMER2011 BAYMAGAZINE.ORG

PHOTOS COURTESY OF: AUSTIN YU

magine sleeping outdoors under a brilliant clear sky glittering with a million stars. Picture toasting a marshmallow to perfection over a roaring bonfire – expanding so it puffs like a giant pillow, golden brown with a gooey center that blends perfectly with the chocolate and graham crackers. Visualize several days without electronics, a proper bathroom and distractions from school or work. Summer has arrived and there’s no better way to start it than with a camping trip! Only 40 minutes from Saratoga Village, Big Basin Redwoods State Park features an ideal and traditional camping experience. With 146 family campsites in four separate campgrounds and over 80 miles of hiking trails, complete with wildlife and waterfalls, first-timers are sure to be astounded. Even before arrival upon the campgrounds, the lush majestic redwood trees tower overhead and emit a musky, yet sweet smell similar to rain into the crisp clean air devoid of pollution or car exhaust. I was completely enraptured by the solemn silence absent of car horns and motors, of whirring computers, of the piercing ringtone of a telephone. The hiking trails range from easy half-mile hikes, such as the Redwood Loop Trail which features the tallest tree and the two thickest trees in the entire park, to demanding 10-mile hikes, such as Skyline to the Sea and Sunset Trails. Although both provide a sense of accomplishment, the Skyline to the Sea Trail holds much promise. Last summer, my friends and I decided to brave the soreness of the Skyline to the Sea trail that would have plagued even the most serious hikers, and it was indeed worth it. The trail leads to the heart of the park, arriving at Berry Creek Falls, a magnificent 70-foot waterfall. It winds through all the habitats of Big Basin park and is situated next to a small creek the majority of the way. While bruises and aches covered my body, the injuries soon faded, leaving behind only a pride of achievement, of conquering the 5-6 hour trail. However, I found the small things the most amazing. The hard, cold ground scattered with rocks and holes made the night almost unbearable; the lack of a comfortable bed forced me to appreciate the luxuries of home. While Big Basin does house clean bathrooms and showers, living in a forest for several days seriously challenged our basic survival instincts. Possibly the biggest hurdle to overcome was cooking without a stove. It required, first of all, a fire. We experimented with different methods, keeping in mind that fires need oxygen (essential when stacking wood), and lighted the tinder to get it started. Although we ran out of fuel earlier than expected, the satisfaction of taming the outdoors made the taste of sausages and kabobs a million times better. Spending time in nature is eye-opening. The fundamental skills, such as budgeting the amount of food per day, are tested; the colossal force of nature humbles us, acting as a reminder of our small part in the world ; and the reflection time calls for personal contemplation. Better yet are the bonds developed while hiking, telling ghost stories at night and struggling to set up the tent. Whether it’s with family or friends, the quality time together is sure to develop into lifelong memories.

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SURVIVOR TIPS 101

by MONICA CAI

As someone fortunate enough to have lived a pretty sheltered lifestyle, it’s hard for me to imagine being stranded on an island with nothing. I’ve gone camping and I’ve spent a good amount of time outside, but all of my outdoor trips included luxuries like cozy cabins and plenty of food. To get a feel for stranded life, I watched a few episodes of Survivorman, a show on the Discovery Channel that follows expert Les Stroud as he tries to survive for seven days stranded in the middle of nowhere. The show helped me put together a list of tips for your stranded experience that I hope will be at least mildly helpful. BECOME FAMOUS While your main objective is to survive, you also want to have a cool adventure that will get you on the news, Facebook, Twitter or a blog. The goal is to get a Lifetime film made about you! So anytime you go on a vacation, choose a spot near a dense jungle, a scorching desert or some other extreme type of environment to ensure it will make a great movie!

BE PREPARED Always bring a video camera with fully charged batteries wherever you go. That way, even if you don’t get the Lifetime movie, you’ll get a sick documentary or a YouTube video with a few million views.

LOOK THE PART Tie a bandana around your head or just rip off a part of your shirt and use it as a bandana. Bandanas always make you look like you’re really roughing it (or they make you look like a pirate). As for the rest of your outfit, wear as much clothing as possible. I don’t care if it’s hot or if you have an eight pack, you need them. They protect you from all of the bugs out there, and you’ll definitely need them at night when temperatures can drop dramatically. Clothing can also be used as bandages for your battle wounds or for the cut you got from tripping over a rock. BE BRAVE Throw away your embarrassment and shame. I guarantee you’ll have to get naked to bathe in a stream. There’s no one around to judge you, but you might want to turn off the video camera for that part.

EAT SOMETHING Forget about your appetite. You’re going to have to resort to eating bugs and other gross animals. Ew. Why are you even on this island? However, the ocean does provide fish as a great option for dinner. However, you need fairly good hand-eye coordination to spear one of those babies, so if you can’t catch a ball… I’m sorry.

BRING THE DRAMA Once you’re stranded, be as dramatic as possible. When filming, do not aim for perfection – the shakiness of your shots will actually add to the appeal of your story. Try to take as many risks as you can so you’ll have a great story to tell when you get home. If you don’t, maybe they’ll find your body and you’ll end up on Wikipedia.

BE REALISTIC Life on a remote island may sound amazing. You get the beach, the sun and the amazing weather… but don’t be fooled. An island is like Selena Gomez – she looks amazing but then you realize she is dating Justin Bieber and you’re like what?

PROTECTION Get your mind out of the gutter; I mean physical protection. Make a shelter. Mother Nature hates people on stranded islands and always decides to give them a nice little storm. Also, try to start a fire to keep warm. The smoke will double as a signal for those looking for you. Hopefully people are looking for you. CHILL After a while, life on the island will start to get to you and when it gets dark, you’ll think all of the animals are out to get you. You’ll start hearing strange noises and seeing things when there’s actually nothing there. Just take a deep breath… nothing is out to get you. Chill out bro.

PHOTO COURTESY OF: AUSTIN YU

DON’T PUSH IT When you finally get off of the island, don’t pull a Tom Cruise and go crazy on a talk show or pull a Charlie Sheen and start talking about how your experience on the island gave you tiger blood. Be humble, honest and happy and the American public will love you. Fame can be fleeting though, so don’t make the mistake of starring on a trashy reality show or trying to start a music career. We really don’t need another Rebecca Black.

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Summer Events 06~20

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10~12

Harmony Festival

San Mateo County Fair

Feeling outdoorsy and eclectic? Pile some tents and friends for a camping weekend of diverse and progressive music. Harmony also features a yoga/ healing sanctuary, eco village, and a nighttime party with fire performances Santa Rosa, Sonoma County.

The fair’s in town! One of the largest in California, the San Mateo fair features live music, carnival games, fair food, petting zoos, and even trapeze acts.

JUNE

04 Pier 39 July Celebration

06/22~07/03 Dine Downtown San Jose Food lovers head to San Jose downtown to sample the prix fixe menus, promotions and samples at various resteraunts while enjoying the summer night

Obon Festival San

North Beach Festival

Celebrate diversity and culture in the Bay Area through music on Father’s day! Genres of music range from jazz to Celtic. 3:00pm to 7:30pm, Downtown Palo Alto.

Take part in San Francisco tradition for the 57th year in the city's very own Little Italy. Expect music, food, and street painting.

19~23 Brave New Voices SF

The largest event held at Whether you are a writer or a spectator, look San Jose’s Japantown, forward to the biggest youth slam poetry come eat delicious vendor competitions in the US. Don’t be afraid to sign foods, play addictive up for the many brilliant workshops throughout booth games, and the week or simply watch. Trust me, the support Asian American intensity and heart of these young poets will culture. blow you away.

Head to the city for a spectacular fireworks celebration, some ocean air, and dancing to live music.

JULY

05~26 Los Altos Friday Outdoor Movie Nights Pack your foldable chairs, pillows, and sleeping bags for some open air movie watching in Los Altos Downtown! Movies start at 8:30 sharp so come early, grab a bite to eat or pack a picnic for refreshing entertainment.

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12~14

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Outside Lands A ridiculously good lineup (think Muse, the Shins, the Roots), hipsters abound, and lots of food = an unforgettable weekend in the city. Held in Golden Gate Park, this is a musical festival you just can’t miss.

San Jose Jazz Festival Sit back, relax, and become cultured at this annual festival, held by the San Jose Jazz Society. It take place in downtown San Jose and feature over 1,000 artists

AUGUST August 20 SquareCrow's Ball

The SquareCrow’s Ball, held in Kelly Park, a historical street of downtown San Jose, promises a warm late summer night full of pie, fun, and of course, square dancing. Chances are, you read that simple phrase of square dancing and mentally rolled your eyes a bit. Well, take a small leap of faith and trust us when we say that square dancing actually can be fun. At only ten dollars and two canned foods as admissions, the SquareCrow’s Ball will teach you simple dance routines on night to remember.

World Music Day

09~10 4th

by SOPHIE KANG

SUMMER2011 BAYMAGAZINE.ORG

10, 11 Ghirardelli Square Chocolate Festival SF Chocolate. Pastries. Ice cream eating contests. Desert samples. Doesn’t need much convincing does it?

17, 18

Nihonmachi Street Fair Celebrate Asian and Pacific culture in San Francisco's Japantown. Also features Taiko and Polynesian dancing performances.

17, 18

Kite Festival

Dragon Boat Festival

You’re never too young for flying bits of colored paper into the wind. Bring your own kites or simply come watch the acrobatic kite tricks of world champions at Little Marina Green Park in SF.

Cheer on the 100+ teams of colorful and intense dragonboaters from around the U.S. at Treasure Island in SF.

SEPTEMBER

THINK

The Middle Eastern Crisis T

by SUNLI KIM

PHOTO COURTESY OF: WWW.CLKER.COM

he year was 1848. Although the famine is most infamously severe in Ireland, the rest of Europe suffered economic and political disquiet that would, combined with a growing socialist and democratic sentiment, ultimately lead to many failed revolutions. Most of Europe had just begun to recover from a potato blight, grain shortage, drought and famine, in addition to the economic downturns that tailed such poor harvests. From 1845 to 1847 European monarchs looked on nervously as numerous food riots erupted internationally. And then, in 1848, Prussia, France and Austria erupted into democratic revolutions – only to fail and come under the rule of monarchies until World War I. Now, in 2011, the world watches in amazement as suddenly, corrupt regimes that have been in place for forty years crumble, plagued by civil war. In nations that have been persistently perpetuated as enemies of the West, such widespread attention on the identical aspirations of Arab youth to any other young, idealistic people is certainly a positive change. The Western media tends to exaggerate the extent of Islamic fundamentalism and terrorism in the Middle East, when most of the actual propaganda and anti-Western feeling probably comes from the regimes themselves. Today we are witnessing a massive movement that has surprised and excited historians for its similarities to the revolutions of 1848. Like those 19th century European citizens, the Arab people finally broke under the skyrocketing food prices and dwindling job opportunities. Recent studies have verified the direct correlation between hunger and revolution. But really – college graduates who had to work at fruit stands to stay alive? Revolution was not impossible. Although we cannot predict what precisely will happen in the future, we can use the past as a guide to what we can usher in or prevent. Obviously, the Middle Eastern rulers missed this lesson. As the rebels succeed in Tunis and Cairo and we send our “limited military aid” to Libya (we are now technically at war with three countries!), an even greater question looms for the victors and the world at large. What now? We must keep in mind that although many of the movements have been moving towards democracy, not all explicitly state such a government as their goal. All people want is to enjoy the dignity and respect they deserve – human rights, higher wages, lower food prices, better opportunities for college-educated youth and security. But who knows if this will all be decided upon under a democratic government? For instance, Prussia’s college students and idealists gathered at the Frankfurt assembly to discuss democratic and socialist possibilities. But they talked too much and for too long; in the end, no change came about. Prussia resisted the assembly, and eventually it was ruled under the Machiavellian principles of the “Blood and Iron” chancellor, Otto von Bismarck. But Bismarck was smart; he realized that in order to keep the people away from other ideologies, such as socialism, he needed to make concessions. Prussia was the first European nation to enact social security, health insurance and accident insurance for its citizens. Bismarck proposed a plebiscite to the people and the second Reichstag was popularly elected. By reducing tariffs significantly, it raised enough money to industrialize, enact property taxes and then use the tax money for public education. Bismarck’s brilliant military tactics brought France and Austria to their knees. Romanticism heavily inspired nationalism. What nationalist would be unhappy to live as a Prussian in such times? The Jasmine Revolution and the ensuing revolts in numerous other Middle Eastern areas will one day become a chapter in every history book, perhaps dull and not relatable for future students. But the undeniable connectedness of this Middle Eastern movement and that of every other developing and developed nation of the world certainly says something; who knows what will become of all these nations in the next year? The future is basically a bolded, fat question mark. But we can and should look to our past for guidance for the future – what worked and what didn’t?

BAYMAGAZINE.ORG SUMMER2011

WATCH

enter the magical world of

HarryPotter

was five years old when I first picked up a copy of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. Six years and many books later, I was crushed to discover the lack of a Hogwarts-embossed envelope in my mailbox. There were no owls in my chimney, no half-giant ready to break my door down, no cat with jeweled-spectacle markings around its eyes waiting at my doorstep. Needless to say, my eleventh birthday was a tragedy. Despite this setback, my love for Harry Potter has only grown in the four years since. I know I speak not only for myself but also for the entire self-dubbed “Harry Potter generation” when I say that had J.K. Rowling not written these books, I honestly would not be the same person I am today. I might have ended up a soul-sucking dementor whose diet consisted of the hopes and dreams of unborn children. I might even have hated reading. Why do we continually proclaim that we are the “Harry Potter generation”? After all, we aren’t even a real “generation” in the original sense of the word – some, like me, were barely older than toddlers when they read the first book; others were already late teens. While the series has proven itself able to speak to anyone of any age, we were the ones who stayed up to ungodly hours of the morning absorbed in the world of Hogwarts; whose yearnings for teenage rebellion echoed true with Harry’s; who learned the power of friendship and loyalty in our own quests to maturity. We are the Harry Potter generation because we literally grew up with him – while he was angsting over girls, we had similar problems too; while he was made a scapegoat by Umbridge and Fudge, we thought of correspondingly oppressive characters in our own lives as well. It has become almost a form of therapy, to absorb ourselves into the pages of this world we so wish to be a part of. How often do we hope that perhaps if we simply willed it hard enough, we would ooze into the book by sheer osmosis and find ourselves part of it? How often do we wish we were best friends with someone as loyal as Harry, as brilliant as Hermione or as loopy as Luna? The characters are so tangible, so flawed and human

SUMMER2011 BAYMAGAZINE.ORG

and wonderfully ambiguous, and I pity the people who say “It’s just a fantasy book series, what’s so great about it?” because they have empty chest cavities.. These characters are real, the situations are real; this series taught us so much about how it is to be human. The trailer for Part 1 of the Deathly Hallows advertises it as “The motion picture event of a generation.” It wasn’t lying, unlike 99% of other advertising. Harry Potter is the cultural event of a generation. It’s a source of common ground for nearly everyone of our age group; no matter where I go or who I meet, there is no question that I’ll run into someone as avidly infatuated as I am. I probably already spend at least 60% of certain classes arguing with my friends over the merits of Snape’s appeal (which, by the way, there is a great deal of), our favorite guilty-pleasure fanfics (what? I know you read it too), which Hallow we prefer, and more. There’s a post circulating on Tumblr saying that life after July 15th will have lost all meaning, but I (surprisingly) disagree. Even though July 15th supposedly signifies the official end of the series, even though I am dreading it probably more than I would dread a year in Azkaban, even though I’ll be crying by the opening credits (oh wait… I already was for Part 1), it will never truly be over. Harry’s door will always be open, because the series will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations to come. Once upon a time, highly-anticipated midnight premieres were held for records or movies – but not books. Then J.K. Rowling came along and, with just one novel that acted as a catalyst for fandom fervor unrivaled by anything we had seen before (except perhaps Twilight, but it’s well known that Twilight fangirls should be institutionalized), transformed a generation of youths into believers. As long as the Potterverse continues to debate and wonder what could have been, it will never be officially over. So despite the fact that I’ll have to bring my weight in tissues to the midnight premiere of the final installment, I rest assured knowing that Harry Potter will never be gone as long as there remain fans who are loyal to him – and there is no doubt that there always will be.

PHOTO OURTESY OF: JAAP BUITENDIJK & WARNER BRO. STUDIOS

by JACQUELINE GU

WATCH

Filmmaker Extraordinare:

John Hughes

by MONICA CAI

THE BREAKFA ST CLUB

I PHOTO COURTESY OF: WWW.MOVIESCREENSHOTS.BLOGSPOT.COM

was a freshman in high school when I watched my first John Hughes film, which meant for an astonishing 14 years, I had never experienced a real teenage movie. The hits of our generation include movies like Mean Girls and A Cinderella Story, but let’s face it, they don’t even begin to match up to John Hughes’ masterpieces. My personal favorites are Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and The Breakfast Club. Both feature stellar casts and find a way to include meaningful life lessons among all of the typical teenage drama and craziness. The Breakfast Club is perhaps Hughes’ most well-known film. It has become an iconic hit among people of all ages, and has even been viewed in schools for its directness in dealing with high school stereotypes. The film’s premise is simple: five high school students from different cliques are stuck doing detention together on a Saturday. The students describe themselves as an athlete, a basket case, a princess, a brain and a criminal. At the end of the day, the five students emerge as The Breakfast Club with newly forged friendships. The film is 100% real and nothing seems overdone or trite at all. All the nuances of awkwardness, boredom and discomfort are there without the superficial gloss that teenage movies have today. When I first watched it, I thought it was a beautifully simple movie, unlike any I’d ever seen. Instead of being told that the students are changing their opinions of each other, we get to watch it happen, as each student is transformed and yet stays the same. All that really happens is that every character reveals things about himself or herself, opening up to the rest of the gang; sorry, no car chases or crazy ax murderers. By showing who they really are, they manage to destroy the stereotypes they were labeled with. Although the movie was filmed in the 1980’s, its value is timeless its lesson that

appearance rarely defines a person can still be applied today. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is a typical feel-good teen movie about a teenage boy who takes a day off of school to go out and live life. We watch Ferris Bueller lie and scheme his way out of every problem that he is confronted with. Somehow he manages to smile and laugh through every obstacle he comes across, turning what could have been a dramatic film into a comedy with sly and witty comments. The day Ferris spends is the perfect day that every teenager dreams of. Of course, the movie isn’t only about cutting school and doing crazy things; it encourages teenagers to step out of the box and take a chance. Ferris Bueller knows how to truly live life, and after watching the film, you’ll want to go out and do everything that you’ve ever wanted to. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is inspirational, and John Hughes demonstrates his uncanny ability of portraying teenage life in an outrageous yet completely understandable way. It opens your eyes and makes you realize all the possibilities life presents, perfectly capturing the carefree essence of being a teenager. I wholeheartedly believe you’re not a real teenager until you watch one of John Hughes’ films. I have a senior friend who I forced to watch Ferris Bueller’s, insisting he couldn’t go to college without seeing it. John Hughes’ films simply define being a teenager. Although the world around us is always moving and always changing, teenagers stay the same. We remain rebellious, mischievous, bored and lost, no matter which decade we live in. Hughes understood that, and with his movies, spoke directly to the adolescents of the 1980’s and to generations to come. I don’t think there’s anyone today who can make a movie like quite he could, and although Hughes passed away last year, his films will continue to entertain and inspire, no matter which generation.

BAYMAGAZINE.ORG SUMMER2011

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Too Cool f The trendiest kids of the Bay show off their unique styles

Cassandra Kent (10)

Anna Huang (11)

Henry M. Gunn High School

Cupertino High School

Summ Stapl er e: D ENIM

SHIR T

Bow, MOM’S CLOSET Cardigan, ANTHROPOLOGIE

Blazer, GOODWILL

Long sleeve v-neck, GAP BODY

Denim shirt, MOM’S CLOSET

Summer Staple: ORTS

Sandals, HAIGHT STREET BOUTIQUE Flats, GAP

CLOTH SH

STYLE GUIDE: “I love to incorporate pastels and muted colors in my style to bring a spring feeling that I love, and I always want to be comfortable. A way to express yourself is through clothing, and that's exactly what I try to do.” ‒Cassandra 26

SUMMER2011 BAYMAGAZINE.ORG

STYLE GUIDE: “My style varies a lot, from being relatively normal to painfully eccentric. Right now, I’m leaning more towards easy to wear, grandma-like, almost androgynous pieces.” ‒Anna

PHOTO OURTESY OF: SAMANTHA DONAT & LAURA YAU

Jeans, URBAN OUTFITTERS

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for School Sherry Roohi (10)

Niva Bigler (12)

Monta Vista High School

The Harker School

Grey necklace, JC PENNEY

Sweater, THRIFT STORE

Blue necklace, FOREVER 21

Shirt, MACY’S

Scarf, DIY

Belt, PACSUN Shorts, FOREVER 21

Tights, FOREVER 21

PHOTO COURTESY OF: SHERRI ROOHI & NIVA BIGLER

Summer Staple:

CROP HOULDER OFF-THE-S LK SI VERSIZE TOPS OR O S OWN BUTTON D

Summ Stapl er e: LAVE

NDER

BLOU

Flats, THRIFT STORE

Sandals, FLOJOS

STYLE GUIDE: “Confidence is everything, no matter your style. If you have it, you could make turtle necks and a clogs the next big thing.” ‒Sherry

STYLE GUIDE: “My style is a combination of comfortable chic and hipster clothing worn with an array of jewelry. My daily outfits illustrate my personality, but the goal is to comfortably reflect a classy and presentable look.” ‒Niva BAYMAGAZINE.ORG SUMMER2011

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Ivan Lee (11)

Daniel Armitano (11)

Saratoga High School

Palo Alto High School Snapback hat, THE HUNDREDS

Summ Stapl er e: LEAT

er Summ : Staple K HAT

H FROM ER SAND AL BARC ELON S A

APBAC T H E SN

Long sleeve striped shirt, AMERICAN APPAREL

Black shirt, THE HUNDREDS

Blazer, EMPIRE VINTAGE CLOTHING

G-shock watch, MACY’S Necklace, DIY

KHAKI SHORTS, LEVIS

Shoes, VANS

STYLE GUIDE: “My style is very similar to my older brother’s. I would say it’s pretty laid back.” ‒Ivan

SUMMER2011 BAYMAGAZINE.ORG

Boots, ZAPPOS

STYLE GUIDE: “I don’t really know how to describe my style.” ‒Daniel

PHOTO OURTESY OF: SASAN SADAAT & DANIEL ARMITANO

Pants, WASTELAND

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Marc Armitano (09)

Dennis Xing (10)

Palo Alto High School

Lynbrook High School

Summer Staple:

Grey necklace, JC PENNEY

GRAY CORDUROY AMERICAN APPAREL SHORT SHORTS

Shirt, EMPIRE VINTAGE CLOTHING

Blue necklace, FOREVER 21 Tortoise shell sunglasses, EMPIRE VINTAGE CLOTHING Windbreaker, H&M

Black v-neck shirt, MOSSIMO SUPPLY CO.

Corduroy pants, SPANISH

PHOTO COURTESY OF: DANIEL ARMITANO & AUSTIN YU

Combat boots, BED-OSTU

Jeans, LEVIS 511

Summ Stapl er e: DENI M BY A S

UPRE ND L H&M EVIS AND ME SHOR TS

Shoes, ERA VANS

STYLE GUIDE: “I just try to stay as classy as I can be.” ‒Marc

STYLE GUIDE: “I like to consider my style to be pretty clean; nothing too flashy and fancy, but also nothing too bland. In general, I tend to stray away from the typical “hype” brands and am always looking for anything fresh, comfortable, and nice-looking.” ‒Dennis

BAYMAGAZINE.ORG SUMMER2011

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Emily Hayflick (12)

Jake Zats (09)

Castilleja School

Lynbrook High School Hat, DC

r e m m u S : StapLTl-e WATER RED SA LS SANDA

Cardigan, NORDSTROM

Belt, CROSSROADS TRADING CO.

Tank top, AMERICAN EAGLE Shirt, LRG Romper, X-GENERATION

Flannel, FOURSTAR CLOTHING

Necklace, THE DISCOVERY SHOP

Printed skirt, NORDSTROM

Belt, VANS

Summ Stapl er e: LOTS

Jeans, INSIGHT JEANS

Socks, SOCKS DREAMS Boots, THE DISCOVERY SHOP

Bag, TARGET

Socks, VANS

O SUNG F T-SHIR T LASS ES AN S, SHORT S, D HA TS

Shoes, VANS OTW COLLECTION

STYLE GUIDE: “I love to layer—I really like to figure out all the different combinations I can come up with for pieces. Because of this, I end up mixing a lot of patterns and textures together. I also like to get clothes from a mixture of used. vintage and new clothing stores.” ‒Emily

SUMMER2011 BAYMAGAZINE.ORG

STYLE GUIDE: “I like to blend together different sorts of styles. I am also some what “rugged”—I don’t wear “nice” clothing. I do like nice jeans though. But what I like the most is just a regular t-shirt and shorts. I do love shoes, and when it comes down to it, I like skate shoes with kind of a vintage, 60s look, or any unique style.” ‒Jake

PHOTO OURTESY OF: EMILY HAYFLICK & AUSTIN YU

Tights, SOCKS DREAMS

Submit

SUBMIT

Walking in Mexico

by Vivian Hsu

Would you like your chance to be featured in Bay Magazine? Send us photos, short stories, poems, artwork, anything! If it can be printed in a publication, then it is welcome! To submit, either mail us at: P.O. Box 35667 Monte Sereno, CA 95030 or email us at: submit@baymagazine.org

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