C
IT’S HARD LIVING OUT T he CampanilE A&E Magazine HERE, BUT I’M TRYING TO MAKE IT OUT OF HERE. EPA Rap: Da Banga Page 15-17
Artist of the Month: Lauren Kerr Page 21
Remembering the Greats Page 22-23
3
EDITORS’ LETTER FOOD
COLLEGE COOKING Get your Freshmen 15 on with these quick and easy recipes for college cooking success.
CONTENTS 4
6
INTERNATIONAL CONFECTION
7
OFF THE GRID
8
See what desserts from places around the world taste like with this colorful graphic representation. Looking for a new ways to enjoy lunch? Off the Grid provides multiple cuisines in one location.
STYLE
BOUTIQUES
On the lookout for a cute summer wardrobe? Check out these three local boutiques for the hottest items at reasonable prices.
SUCCESS AT SEVENTEEN An ordinary 17 year old paints art on shoes and designed a pair for Macklemore!
A-Z FASHION
C Magazine rounded up trends that we spotted all over campus this year in this Elle magazineinspired collage.
COVER STORY BONGN’
Meet the rapper from East Palo Alto behind the Youtube hit, “Bongn,” and discover what makes his music unique.
CULTURE
9
10-11 12-13
15-17
9
BEST POLITICAL TV SHOWS
18
BLOOM’S MEDITATIONS
19
Campanile’s Charlie Dulik shares his top 3 political T.V. shows. From sit-coms to action, all political T.V. shows are captured here. Learn about Palo Alto High School’s physics teacher, Josh Bloom, and his passion for meditation.
20
Lauren Kerr exceeds being an amazing artist; she creates her own original style of art
22
AOM: LAUREN KERR
20-21
The Campanile A&E Magazine May 22, 2013
REMEMBERING THE GREATS
22-23
Palo Alto High School 50 Embarcadero Road Palo Alto High School, CA 94303
Check out Junior Lauren Kerr’s unique artistic style where she uses pen and vibrant colors to create her designs. Take a moment to read about C Magazine’s favorite deceased rappers that have shaped and influenced the rap music we know today.
EDITORS’ LETTER Dear readers,
Welcome to the second generation of C Magazine, with us, your new editors, Caroline Moley, Sophia Moss and Sam Newell. Thanks to our amazing staff we are able to bring you the eighth edition of C Magazine. We are incredibly honored to have been chosen to be the Editors-in-Chief of C Magazine and we are excited to watch it grow with the help of our amazing staff. We will be making some minor changes next year including our new section of C magazine called “C mag favorites”. In this edition of C Magazine, readers will have the chance to read about the East Palo Alto rap artist, Da Banga, as well as fantastic reviews of some small, hidden Boutiques from around town and get a chance to look inside the mind of artist Lauren Kerr.
STAFF LIST This is the last edition of C Magazine this year and we would like to thank our previous Editors-in-Chief, Perri Pond and Rachel Wilson, for putting time and effort into making C Magazine’s first year the best it could possibly be. We will all miss them and we wish them the best of luck in college. We want to thank our amazing advisor, Esther Wojcicki for supporting and guiding us this year. We would also like to thank you, our readers, for taking interest in C Magazine and we are very excited to bring you many more editions in the coming 2013-14 school year! We hope you enjoy this edition of C Magazine and don’t forget to bring it home to share with your families.
— Caroline Moley, Sophia Moss and Sam Newell Editors-in-Chief
EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Caroline Moley Sophia Moss Sam Newell
CREATIVE DIRECTORS Riya Varma Nikki Freyermuth
TECH EDITOR Pauline Na
PHOTO EDITOR Bella Graves
AD MANAGERS
Carmelle Bareket Shavit Kallee Barket Shavit
STAFF WRITERS Rose Fitzgerald Armete Mobin Matt Morton Madison Mignol Perri Pond Julia Poppy Eric Wang Rachel Wilson Maggie Zheng
ADVISOR
Esther Wojcicki
Anna L. Waring, Ph.D. Executive Director
awaring@collegefoundation.org tel: (650) 327-9976 tel: (650) 327-5048 fax: (650) 327-9977 2160 Euclid Avenue East Palo Alto, CA 94303 www.collegefoundation.org
Taking the SAT?
If you’re looking for the very best in SAT preparation, look no further! Here are some of our recent results: 2320 (800M, 720CR, 800W) - started at 1870, +450 improvement 2270 (770M, 720CR, 780W) - started at 1880, +390 improvement 2230 (740M, 720CR, 770W) - started at 1850, +380 improvement 2030 (620M, 640CR, 770W) - started at 1500, +530 improvement Many of our students improve by 300+ points even when they start with very high scores, and often 400+ points with lower starting scores. We teach strategies that are significantly different and better than those taught at other prep companies—so there’s value in working with us even if you’ve done previous SAT prep. One of our recent students, for example, said he learned “more in one session with Zenith than a whole course with Kaplan”.
For more information. please visit: zenithtutoring.com or call us at 650-833-4703
FOOD
FOOD
COLLEGE COOKING CLASS
with Matt Morton
Photos by Matt Morton As the school year comes to an end, hundreds of Paly seniors will graduate and head on to the rest of their lives. Paly may have prepared the seniors academically, but do they have the skills required to thrive without mom and dad? The least we can do is teach those seniors how to feed themselves with minimal equipment (considering dorm rooms) and much more importantly, minimal effort.
RAW MAN RAMEN WHAT IS THIS:
Packaged noodles, the staple of any college student’s diet. Main ingredient; salt. Only other ingredient; cardboard. Unfortunately, the standard flavors such as “beef” or “chicken” get boring quickly—here’s how to spice up that ramen a bit.
FIND THIS: Ramen Egg Seasoning Water Pot Stove
DO THIS:
1. Boil pot of water. 2. Drop in ramen. 3. Drop in egg. 4. Wait until egg cooks. 5. Season to taste. 6. Consume.
COFFEE POT CUISINE WHAT IS THIS:
FIND THIS:
Hardboiled eggs. Using a coffee maker. Egg Coffee Maker
DO THIS:
1. Fill coffee maker. 2. Put eggs in pot. 3. Press ‘on’ button. 4. Wait for coffee pot to fill. 5. Wait 5 minutes. 6. Check an egg. 7. Repeat if needed.
6
IRON CHEF’S GRILLED CHEESE WHAT IS THIS:
A grilled cheese. Simple, right? But what if you can’t get to a kitchen, complete with frying pan or fancy panini maker? What if you’re locked in a room with nothing but the four materials below, a power outlet, and ravening hunger? Why would that even happen? Who cares? Here’s how to make a bacon grilled cheese sandwich with a clothes iron.
FIND THIS: Clothes iron Bacon Cheese Bread
DO THIS:
1. Preheat iron to ‘on’. 2. Prop up iron. 3. Put bacon on iron. 4. Cook. Save fat. 5. Soak bread in bacon fat. 6. Toast on both sides. 7. Insert bacon. 8. Insert cheese. 9. Heat to melt cheese. 10. Eat.
International Confection American food has no competition when it comes to the world of eccentric sweets. Although we can proudly praise many of the globally-recognized features of this star-spangled land where dreams come true, there is one aspect in the States that foreigners and some domestic citizens aren’t so satisfied with—a typical American meal consisting of burgers, shakes and fries. For some, American food is predictable, boring and ridiculously fattening (not that we care). It is safe to say that comida Americana is not the finest nor a delicacy out there. It is time for us to venture out and take a bite out of each and every continent on this beautiful planet. Give these delicious desserts a try! by Maggie Zheng Beer & Pretzel Caramels (Ireland): The savory taste of pretzels, combined with the mild taste of yeast in beer, along with sugary, caramelly goodness added in creates the much-praised beer & pretzel caramel snack originating in Ireland. When caramel is eaten solo, it can lack dimension. Now, what if you mix in pretzels and the taste of beer? Woah.
Pannkakor (Sweden): These paper-thin golden pancakes can easily be mistaken for crepes, and are also garnished with similar confections such as jam or whipped cream. In fact, you can hardly tell the difference between the two. Here’s the unspoken rule: anything that isn’t highly popularized yet is considered “indie”, and “indie” is good. In short, we can all appreciate pannkakor simply for its fancy Swedish name. Perhaps we could even consider placing a few Swedish fish on top to emphasize its origin.
Chak Chak (Russia): At first glance, these Russian desserts may look like broken chunks of funnel cake, but these peanut-sized snacks have a bigger personality than their homely appearance presents; the honey syrup drizzled over these deep-fried pieces creates the ultimate sensation for your taste buds.
Coconut Ice (England): One word: macaroons. (No, not the French macarons.) These British “coconutty” treats are delightful particularly because of their bubblegumpink color. They are also from England which deems them, naturally, as companions to English breakfast tea on prim afternoons. However, the desserts themselves aren’t anything special but they do fool the eye; its bubblegum-pink color creates a euphoric atmosphere that makes anyone believe what they’re eating is scrumptious even if it actually tastes like a plain jane.
Tanghulu (China): These candied hawthorn skewers are a classic and timeless treat in China because of it’s sweet and sour taste. It’s perennial existence during every year’s cold and windy autumn season plays a sweet role in every generation since we can remember; the sugary layer on top and the sour notes of the hawthorn are the dynamic duo of the century and beyond.
Bavarian Cream (Zimbabwe): This dessert is not only aesthetically-pleasing, but it is also gastronomically satisfying; the orange jelly and the passion fruit juice bring a zesty boom to your day. This doesn’t mean it is solely sherbert, sometimes balance is key. Thus, the whipped cream neutralizes the sour and sometimes individually caustic taste.
FOOD
7
OFF THE GRID
Off the Grid, an organization of food trucks placed all over the Bay Area, provides different types of food while creating a fun experience for all.
Photos and text by Kallee Bareket-Shavit Food trucks are an increasingly popular place to eat. However, the one problem with a restaurant on wheels is finding it. To simplify the process, Off the Grid assembles food trucks in several different locations around San Francisco and other parts of the Bay Area. The combination of unique food with the inevitable crowds creates an energetic and enjoyable atmosphere. Off the Grid began as a small group of food truck owners, but it now offers meals from over 100 vendors. One of these vendors is Kasa, an Indian food eatery, one of SF Weekly’s top 13 places to eat in San Francisco. Don Bugito, a truck specializing in edible insects, features dishes like Wax Moth Larvae Tacos. A more traditional vendor, Cupkates is San Francisco’s first mobile cupcake truck. While these trucks may park next to one another, they
8
FOOD
all have a unique style and taste, allowing them to stand out in their own way. Multiple food trucks are stationed together, with chairs spread out across the narrow sidewalks to provide seating. A tent in the middle of the street provides shade for the band performing for the lunch crowd. As the crowd separates into lines at each colorfully-decorated truck, the eclectic mix of smells fill the air. However fun the lunch may be, the time limitation of the event is strict. After everyone has left the once lively and busy street, it is virtually identical to any other alley in San Francisco. Off the Grid holds events all around San Francisco, including locations such as the UN Plaza, Pier 29 and North Beach. Several trucks also get together in Berkeley and Hayward. But no matter which
location you choose, and which food trucks show up, a great experience is guaranteed. The set up benefits more than just the consumer. Off the Grid offers small businesses a chance to get together and build a following. Off the Grid brings a new flavor to daily cuisine. Though the vast variety of choices may give you a headache, Off the Grid provides flexibility that one cannot find at a restaurant. The best part about Off the Grid is that if you are searching for a specific flavor or spice, the likelihood of finding that food is extremely likely. service.
Very impressive.
website.
www.offthegridsf.com
price.
Varies by truck.
verdict.
Exceptional.
STYLE
Local Boutiques Shady Lane
Text by Pauline Na & Photos by Nikki Freyermuth
441 University Ave. Palo Alto, CA
Searching for high quality jewelry but don’t want to pay an unreasonable amount of money? Shady Lane, located on University Avenue directly across the street from the new burger restaurant Umami Burger, is the place to go. They offer jewelry for all price ranges, even for allowance-once-a-month receiving teens. So listen up all you super saver shopping fiends, low-budget boyfriends, and anyone looking for a gift for someone of the female gender. Sterling silver earrings for less than $20.00? Check. Extremely cute high quality rings for less than $30.00? Check. Necklaces with one of a kind pendants for under $50.00? Check. Charm bracelets for less than $50.00? Check. Shady Lane has got it all. Everything they offer is beautifully crafted and sure to satisfy even the highest of standards.
Gitane
855 Santa Cruz Ave. Menlo Park, CA
Located in the heart of downtown Menlo Park, Gitane immediately catches the attention of any person walking by with it’s large window display. On display, there are mannequins dressed in the current hottest trends and an eye-catching pop of color. Upon entering the boutique, one’s eyes are immediately set at ease by the boho chic vibe the entire space gives off. The room is bordered by racks of tops, organized according to color. On one rack, the reds, oranges and yellows. On another, the greens, blues, and purples. And lastly, the pastels, whites, and blacks. There is a beautiful flow within the store that makes finding everything an extremely easy task. Smack dab in the middle of the store is a large wooden table, on top of which lie accessories such as wallets, bracelets, scarves and small clutches. The downside of Gitane? The prices. While there are some cheaper items, the majority of the stores merchandise is definitely geared towards a higher price range. But do not let the prices steer you away! This store is still undoubtedly worth taking a look around.
Therapy
250 Castro St. Mountain View, CA
If Urban Outfitters, Free People, and Anthropologie had a three way love child, Therapy would be the result. As one crosses the threshold of this local boutique located in downtown Mountain View, CA, they are immediately greeted by an eclectic array of knick knacks and home furnishings such as clocks, couches, posters, etc. When one walks further into the store, home furnishings, subtly transform into shoes, socks and a large variety of accessories for both men and women. Ranging from watches to earrings, the selection offers nothing less than variety. Some of the jewelry is even made by hand! Lastly, the back part of the store is filled with racks upon racks of hand picked clothing ranging from dresses to bandeaus. This boho chic boutique has something for everyone because Therapy continuously keeps up to date with the latest trends. The only drawback to this boutique is the price. Being the love child of Urban Outfitters, Free People, and Anthropologie, one can be sure that it unfortunately has the high prices to prove it.
9
success at seventeen
T
hese days, technological advances have opened many new doors for talented artists across the nation. These artists are able to gain global recognition through means of social media. Karan Sunil, a 17 year old senior at Skyline High School in Sammamish, Washington quickly gained attention for his unique portraits of famous people and his talent for designing art on shoes. His unique art even caught the attention of famous rapper Macklemore. Sunil’s passion for art started out as a fascination, however, his passion grew, leading him to incredible achievements and national recognition. Sunil started attracting attention when he began designing art on shoes. His designs features the faces of public figures such as Obama, Wiz Khalifa, Lebron James and many others.
10
STYLE
BY RIYA VARMA Two years ago, Sunil caught the attention of Macklemore’s manager while wearing his custom shoes at Macklemore concert. The manager, impressed by the shoe design, brought Macklemore to Sunil after the show to introduce them to one another. “After the concert, [Macklemore’s manager] came up to us and said, ‘[Macklemore] wants to see the shoes!’” said Sunil. “So we went back and he saw my shoes and said that he thought they were cool and I told him I could make a pair for him.” Sunil sent his shoe design of Obama’s face on white high tops to Macklemore’s manager. Though Sunil doesn’t know through what means Macklemore had the shoes manufactured, the original design was created by him. Apart from getting recognition from Macklemore, Sunil has achieved many accomplishments considering his young age. The Bellevue Art Museum featured Sunil’s painting of famous rapper Drake in their “20 Under 20” program. “20 Under 20” is a program in which the best artists in the Seattle area under the age of 20 years old are selected to have their art displayed in the museum. S u n i l fe e l s t h a t h i s g r e a t e s t a c h i e v e m e n t w a s b e i n g fe a t u r e d i n P h a r r e l l W i l i a m’s “ i a m O t h e r ” o n l i n e g a l l e r y. For those who do not know, Pharrell Williams is a famous
singer/songwriter, rapper and eight-time Grammy award winner who created the video channel “i am Other” on YouTube. The channel focuses on music, the arts, fashion and culture; which Williams describes as a, “cultural movement dedicated to thinkers, innovators and outcasts.” Sunil dedicated his painting to the “i am Other” movement on Instagram and was re-blogged by Williams, and received a thank-you from the famous rapper. Sunil is preparing to attend the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in the fall. Sunil is not much different from many Palo Alto High School students who have a passion for art. He is an example for young artists who long to achieve recognition in the art world. Lately, Sunil has been creating more art to sell at an auction he will soon be hosting; all the money gained will go to charity. Now that he has less stress from school, and the college application process is over, Sunil said that for the time being he is “just trying to create as much art as [he] can.” His art varies from paintings on canvas, to sketches on paper, to digital paintings (art created through means of computerization). All his art has a unique twist that captivates the attention of a young eccentric audience. Though we students are often underestimated because of our age, Sunil proves that age is but a number.
“i'm just trying to create as much art as i can” -karan sunil, 17 STYLE
11
A-Z Fashion Trends
Text and artwork by Maggie Zheng
E
ar cuffs
A
mericana
B
Denim jackets, cowboy boots and anything featuring star spangled motif are the ingredients in reppin’ Amurrrica. But please, someone call the fashion police; if you see people mixing denim on denim on denim---it ain’t so attractive, girls. And no, wearing different shades of denim blue is not a valid excuse.
F
lannels
C
ollegiate gear
D 12
Just like Katy Perry’s song “California Girl” from three summers ago, short-shorts are a must-have and do-have in a Californian girl’s wardrobe. Is it necessary to bring out the booty shorts that give the world a full display of our pasty-white-but-soon-to-betanner bum cheeks? Hell yeah! Because they really do set the mood for summer and give the illusion that one has longer legs that are (almost) on par with Adrianna Lima or Alexandra Ambrosio’s legs.
H
Band merchandise, ripped baggy denim with dangled chains, beanies and various body piercings all contribute to this one style that emerged from the Pacific Northwest decades ago. Even though the term is usually used to refer to the music genre, this style has also become popular recently in the world de la mode when many celebrities started rocking this look.
unters
Soggy shoe owners, rejoice! The bright array of rubber footwear is bound to make your rainy day at Lake Paly a whole lot better. In fact, many girls look forward to rainy days just because it is an excuse to walk the catwalk on the quad in their cute rainboots.
phones No explanation needed, we live in Palo Alto...
J
uicy hoodies
runge
coverups when wearing tops with either a low neckline or large armholes. A pop of neon or a splash of color is better than any plain bra showing.
aisy dukes
More specifically, plaid flannels. Not only are these comfortable, but they also give off a casual vibe. Needless to say, the plaid pattern has been with us since elementary school. And a bonus? These shirts are unisex!
G
andeaus These can be used as bra-substitutes or bra-
It seems like we are always advertising the college right across the street, Stanford University. Whenever it is chilly outside or if we feel like grubbin’ that day, we head for that cozy Stanford pullover. It isn’t always Stanford though, logos from different colleges nation-wide have been spotted on sweatpants, hoodies and bumper stickers. Maybe after seeing us proudly sporting their merchandise, Stanford will want us all.
I
For those with low pain tolerance, these are especially for you if you desire an edgy flare to your everyday style. Check Etsy for cheap and unique earcuffs.
First brought to attention by socialites like Paris Hilton, the globally-recognized velour tracksuits have also been spotted around campus. They are easy to throw on, figure-hugging and designer—what more could you want?
K
endall & Kylie
These two sisters are trend-setters amongst the teenage crowd mostly because their ages make them relatable to our generation of baby, baby boomers. Whatever they do, we copy. Whatever they wear, we wear.
L M
ace
Typically associated with lingerie, lace is now used in anything we can get our hands on. This isn’t surprising because adding a touch of chantilly lace can take something from not to hot. It’s also a sign of femininity, according to gritandglamour dot com.
occasins The prettier Native American cousin of furry slippers, moccasins are cozy and soft which makes them the ideal footwear on chilly days.
N
R
O
S
orthface
Look like a happy camper, literally, with these fuzzy fleece jackets. Northface jackets are portable and the more socially-accepted version of Snuggies and pajama robes that we all wish we could wear to school somedays.
mbre hair
If your hair happens to outgrow your freshly dyed/bleached hair way too fast, relax—try the ombre hair trend. Whoever started this trend probably wanted to creatively hide their roots that were appearing. Human ingenuity, right?
P
ippy Longstocking
Q
Look leggy this year with various lengths, colors and textures of socks and pantyhose. When it’s wintertime, thick cable-knit tights go perfect with skirts that are usually meant for summer. Plus, you could always pair crew socks with sneakers during spring time.
uick throw-on
Forget what your fashion bible told you what not to wear. Here at Paly, your intuition and self-guidance is all you need. Although most of us look classy and put-together during the first month (or week) of school, the rest of the year is a different story. Many of us just slip into a hoodie and loose sweatpants, and we’re out the door. During finals week, some guys even have a mildly grossed-out look on their not-so-tidy faces when they see what the opposite gender is wearing.
ainbows
The shoes du saison is the leather sandal made right here in sunny California. It features sturdy leather straps and memory foam feetpads that adjusts to your individual foot shape. No wonder these are on everyone’s feet.
tuds n’ spikes
Girls at Paly have caught on to this trend that has been everywhere in the couture world since last year. Just don’t prick anyone!
V
ans
What are pedophiles’ favorite type of shoes? We don’t know because they all have different tastes in shoes. (It’s okay if you don’t get the cue.) But all jokes aside, filthy white vans are ubiquitous on campus, which got me thinking: where did the Chuck Taylors go?
W
T
wo-way (rolled Uggs) This trend took Paly by storm last fall and winter. Although editor-in-chief Caroline Moley disapproves, females all over campus still continue to rock it and roll it.
U
ggs Uggs have been around since middle school and they are still a trend now, unlike the other middle school “it” things that we ditched long ago—talk about perennial style.
Y
oga pants
ild cat print
Distinguishing between different big cat prints is not important; as long as you look va va voom in your feline-printed attire, you’re bound to get “rawr”ed at.
Z Xmas sweaters
Whether it is Lululemon or Victoria’s Secret PINK, bootcuts or leggings, these comfy yet flattering throw-on pants have become a staple in almost every Paly girl’s closet. What is it about these pants, you ask? First of all, guys love them—their eyes practically oogle over every girl’s booty. Secondly, many would argue that yoga pants are a heaven-sent, meaning that they are extremely comfortable. If you don’t believe me, go try on a pair at your local Lululemon store. In short, yoga pants are the ultimate garment to substitute its more homely cousin, the baggy sweatpant, because yoga pants are comfy, flattering and make one look sporty while hiding the unfortunate cellulite.
_______________________ (fill in by yourself)
Unlike the 80’s, this decade is all about celebrating these itchy, ugly and ill-fitting sweaters that loving grandmothers knit for their grandchildren. Perhaps the attraction towards wearing ugly sweaters is a sarcastic one, but at least we know the pride in wearing them is genuine.
13
making it out: a local rapper’s journey to the
top
Today rap dominates the music world, so it is always interesting to see who the next big rap artist will be. Originally from East Palo Alto, rapper and hype artist Jahrad Carter, otherwise known as Da Banga, sets himself apart from the pack by making a splash in the underground movement. Carter began making music in 2007, at the young age of 14. Continued on next page >>
By Samantha Newell, Rachel Wilson and Pauline Na COVER
15
H
e first made his name in East Palo Alto when he created a rap group, called Burna Boys, however he later broke off from the group. “I was in a group; There was five of us at that point,” Da Banga said. “We split up and divided into two [groups, but] I went solo.” Though he rapped in a group in the past, he is now currently working alone. “If I am doing a project by myself, I prefer to do it by myself; You know, I gotta stay focused,” Da Banga said. “But if I am doing something that is featuring another artist, [then] you know I need my guys there to amp me up.” In today’s limelight, there are a handful of hype artists, the most popular being hype heavyweights, Waka Flocka Flame and Lil Jon, who rap about guns, drugs, and crime. Like these artists, Da Banga’s songs feature guns and crime as well, however,he tries to relay a different message behind his songs. “A lot of music in East Palo Alto, [and] a lot of artists out here talk about gun violence, and drugs,” he said. “Everyone has heard that before, and some artists have to come up with something different, [for example] like I said I am trying to show the kids [something] better than talking about shooting, because they can only hear what they relate to.” Carter creates music speaking to kids in East Palo Alto, while still maintaining a party sound. “I make party music, and [my music is about] having fun,” Carter said. “But some of my music can send out messages too. I just try to tell kids that there is a better way and that [music] is the better way.” Growing up in East Palo was tragic and it was difficult to survive day in and day out. “It’s hard living out here. But, I’m trying to make it out and this [rapping] is the only way I’m gonna make it out,” Carter said. When Carter was younger, he lived recklessly and seemed to constantly get in trouble, yet he now has learned many lessons from his past, contributing to the message he speaks in his music today. “I don’t want nobody else to step in the same direction I went. I make reality music that is real; No matter what hap-
16
COVER
Photos by Bella Graves
”
“ I’m my own inspiration. Da Banga (middle) poses with his entourage, Chris (left) and Devin (right).
pens, I want my fans to know what is real and that my music is real,” Carter said. “I speak out in my music.” In October 2012, Carter and his music label Squadbizzent My Bizz released a music video for his song, “Bongn” on Youtube. Carter’s hit single quickly spread across social media feeds and currently has around 20,000 views on Youtube. His overnight rise to fame has exponentially increased his fan base who are now all anxiously waiting for him to release new material. “It’s great man, it’s getting bigger by the moment, trust me,” Carter said. “It seems a little slow right now, [because] I came out with that video [“Bongn”] a couple years ago but I ain’t dropped another Da Banga (left) takes a pictures with mother and manager, Patricia Williams (right).
video because I am not very prepared right now to drop one, but I have a lot of songs that nobody has heard yet.” Though he hasn’t released new music for several years, Carter is planning to release new music soon along with a mixtape, called Young and Reckless. His hit song “Bongn” will be included on his upcoming album with a new hit single. “I should be on my way to dropping my mixtape, but I will be coming out with a hit single after my mixtape drops and I am gonna get an original beat. Then you know I’ll drop another hit single like I did [with] ‘Bongn,’” Carter said. Carter embraces a sound of his own; A sound which is unique to other rappers who began their careers in East Palo Alto.
“I am my inspiration; I’m my own inspiration because I really think my style is unique. I don’t think nobody has my style,” De Banga said. “I think my style is perfect and universal. I can do rock and all types of music.” When he isn’t making his music, Carter is at home taking care of his child, helping his brothers, sisters, and mom, or with his squad helping them stay motivated and out of trouble. Unlike most musical talents in the industry today, Carter has chosen to hire his mother as his manager because he knows she will always have his best interests at heart no matter what. “I put my mom as my manager because I feel like I am in perfect hands [with her]. You can’t go wrong with your mom you know what I mean,” Carter said. “You now Waka Flocka’s manager is his mom too; Kanye’s mom is his manager so you know [mothers] give a lot of inspiration.” Although Carter’s mother, Patricia Williams was slightly hesitant when he first decided to pursue a career in the music industry, she soon saw how dedicated and motivated he was to make his message heard. She observed a new passion and drive within him, which she had never seen before in Carter. “I didn’t think he was like really serious but he kept going at it and as he kept going, he kept progressing and progressing,” Williams, said. “I kept hearing people play [his] music and I told him, ‘You know what, if you [are] really serious about music, mommy gonna back you up. I am gonna invest in you, ‘cause I see you got the talent.’”
Check out Da Banga’s hit song, “Bongn” right here!
COVER
17
CULTURE
FICTION AND FILIBUSTERS: Top 3 political T.V. shows Election season has been over for a few months now, but many Paly students still yearn for political drama. For those too depressed, bored or uninterested to follow the news, fear not: the inner-workings of the American political system have been laid bare for television in every genre from drama to comedy. Here are the top three political television shows to have graced American airwaves.
By Charlie Dulik
See complete version online.
17
The West Wing
tchuntfr/ Flickr
Filled with snappy dialogue, scarily realistic political issues and hours of walking, The West Wing is the definitive Aaron Sorkin experience, and consistently ranked as one of the best TV dramas. The plot centers around, you guessed it, the West Wing of the White House. President Josiah Bartlett (Martin Sheen) works with his senior staff on the pressing legislative, political and personal issues of the day,
Parks and Recreation Enjoy miniature horses, hate calzones and have a passion for local government in America’s heartland? If so, Parks and Recreation (Parks and Rec) is the show for you. Following Leslie Knope (Amy Poehler) and her staff in the Parks departments of Pawnee, Indiana, Parks and Rec will be ending its fifth and final season this spring.
from healthcare to gun rights. The rosecolored lenses through which the innerworkings of government are portrayed may not be an accurate representation of Washington, but after falling in love with the breakneck intellectual banter, you’ll hope it is. Though it is widely agreed the show declined after Sorkin’s post-season four departure, The West Wing remains the gold standard for any show about the American political system.
The show hosts a diverse ensemble of cult characters, including Nick Offerman as Ron Swanson, the manly, moustached, libertarian director of the department, Aziz Ansari as Tom Haverford, an entrepreneurial, effeminate, swag-driven city official and Aubrey Plaza as April Ludgate, an apathetic, deadpan intern. The show has hosted guest stars ranging from John McCain to Joe Biden. Just as random as both small town life and local government can be, Parks and Rec is quirky and touching. Leolitto/ Flickr
24 Badass. That’s the only way to describe 24, which ran for eight seasons and a TV movie. Jack Bauer (Kiefer Sutherland) is a counterterrorism agent based out of Los Angeles. The show always involves domestic and international political elements. Presidents have been assassinated, kidnapped and revealed to be evil. Wars have been started, politics have been played and if you’re a terrorist or a malevolent business conglomerate, watch out. David Palmer, played by Dennis Haysbert pre-All State ad fame, remains one of the greatest fictional Presidents of all time, leading the nation through terrorist attacks with his unyielding commit-
ment to integrity and honesty for five of the show’s seasons. Posing difficult moral questions alongside its creative format (each episode is one hour long and shown in real time; each season follows one complete day), there really is no show like 24.
musicaho/ Flickr
JOSH IN BLOOM
Text and photo by Samantha Newell
B: Mr. Bloom C: C Magazine C: What do you hope to achieve when you practice meditation in class with your students? B: What I hope is that students find
the practice to be an effective tool for coping with and managing stress. More deeply, I hope that it helps them more deeply know themselves by becoming more conscious of their mind and body. This also reduces stress, because the more deeply we know ourselves the easier it is for us to make decisions and choices that are in alignment with who we are and what we value. Throughout the day, our minds and bodies are constantly occupied with thought and activity that is directed outward. The ultimate purpose of meditation is to direct our focus inward, which increases our self-awareness by more deeply experiencing our consciousness. With that awareness comes greater peace of mind and body.
C: How has meditating changed your life? B: I am much calmer. I take things in stride that might otherwise wind me up. I experience things more fully, take them in more deeply. I am more present, and thus feel like I live my life more fully. I am better able to respond to stresses that occur, rather than just reacting to them. I am able to slow down, take time, and act thoughtfully and with awareness. I am better able to enjoy good times, and cope with bad times.
C: So what is the lesson we can learn from meditation? B: Life is like breath - it has a natural rhythm to it. And that rhythm has two parts - the in-breath which energizes and the out-breath which relaxes. We cannot breathe in constantly without eventually breathing out. If we did, we’d eventually find ourselves bursting to release and let
go. Similarly, we cannot constantly be active, creative, and productive if we do not regularly allow ourselves to breathe out, to relax, to let go - to do nothing. The out-breath is what adequately prepares us for the in-breath. Similarly, relaxation (not doing) is what adequately prepares us for activity (doing). The more deeply we learn to relax, the more productive, creative, and effective we will be when we are active.
C: Why do you meditate? B: Stress is cumulative. Every day we
experience stresses in life, and if we don’t do something to process and dissolve those stresses they build up. Each of us has a limited capacity for stress, and so when that limit is exceeded we overflow. In some way or another we lose it mentally, emotionally, or physically - perhaps all three. However, if we have a way of processing and dissolving this stress on a regular basis then we keep ourselves from overloading - allowing us to experience the regular stresses of daily life without breaking down - without “losing it”. That’s why I meditate.
C: Can you explain to us how exactly to meditate? B: Sit comfortably, with your lower
back supported in a place free from distraction. Start with your back straight, but not stiff. Arms and shoulders relaxed. Hands resting on your legs. Close your eyes, and breathe in through the nose slowly and deeply allowing your belly to expand as you breathe. Then breathe slowly and deeply out. It may help to count your breath in over a count of four, hold for four, breathe out over six, then hold for two seconds before taking in the next breath. Bring all your attention to your breath, feeling it moving in and out of your body.
C: How did you begin practicing meditation? B: A years ago, I had some chal-
lenging stresses in my life that I knew I needed to learn how to manage. I felt out of control of these stresses, and thus out of control of myself and my life. I started to see a therapist, and he recommended that I take a course in mindfulness. It is all about bringing your attention and focus to the present moment - to what is happening now, and to experience it fully and without distraction. Later, I took another course called Breath of Yoga - which was a course that taught how to use your breath to manage stress and calm the mind. I found the practice very powerful, and very calming. In fact, it changed how I felt as I went through my day. Eventually, I took a follow-up course in the practice of meditation.
CULTURE
18
20 CULTURE 20 CULTURE
artist of the month:
“[My pen illustrations] usually start with an absentminded doodle in living skills or what not and then become really detailed,” Kerr said. “[Then they] become a full page and I’ll color it in Prismacolor pens.” Kerr’s distinct style appears in many of her works, though she is not afraid to experiment and explore new styles. She’s dabbled in just about every medium, from photography to acrylic to etching, but her colorful sketches continue to be her signature form. “My style shifts but it always kinda comes back to [this] doodley [approach],” Kerr said. Her unique style is largely influenced by contemporary artists, though it draws upon elements of more classical art as well. Artists she draws inspiration from include Roy Lichtenstein, Wayne Thiebaud, Salvador Dali, as well as non-traditional artists like tattoo artist Tim Hendricks, and artist Louis Wain. “Louis Wain is an artist who had schizophrenia,” Kerr said. “He [created] these psychedelic paintings. I’m really into the kind of trippy, colorful stuff.” However, Kerr’s main inspiration is closer to home. Her dad, Darren Kerr, has extensive knowledge and experience in the art world and assists Kerr in her artwork. He primarily helps her develop technical skills in her painting and drawing. “My dad is an artist,” Kerr said. “He does realistic portraits. Right now he has a show at the Four Seasons [hotel]. He does sports painting, so he is really encouraging [in my artistic pursuits].” At Paly, Kerr has taken a variety of art classes. This year she is enjoying taking advanced painting and drawing. “[I am] able to expand my skills a lot more this year because [I have] more freedom in my assignments,” Kerr said. She plans to keep expanding her artistic pursuits this summer by attending an intensive summer art class at the University of California Los Angeles. “[I’m] working towards having a complete portfolio to submit to colleges because I want to major in studio arts or fine arts,” Kerr said. “I want to have more works to show in my portfolio and this is a really high level college class that’ll help me develop my skills in oil painting.” The class will primarily focus on still life, something she’s already worked on in this medium, but will also include landscape and possibly portraiture. Next year, Kerr will take AP Studio Art, a class with a lot more freedom to choose what projects to embark upon as she develops her portfolio for college.
Lauren Kerr
Text by Perri Pond and Rachel Wilson
T
hough many students enjoy doodling during class, Palo Alto High School junior Lauren Kerr takes goofy sketches from class to a whole new level. Her signature vibrant, colorful and dreamlike drawings are often posted on her various social media accounts. Kerr has been participating in all kinds of art since she was a child, initially taking classes at school, then outside of school. She began with little doodles, like many kids, before progressing to an interest in fashion design that occupied her middle-school years. “Up until 9th grade I did a lot fashion design and then around the beginning of last year I started doing less ‘fashiony’ stuff and more illustrative design work, like pen work,” Kerr said. The styles she has explored have run the gamut from oil painting to acrylic to watercolor, but have always come back to her unique and original dream-like style. Her drawings feature bold black outlines, shading, and a wide spectrum of intense and vibrant colors that make her art stand out.
CULTURE
21
CMAG FAVORITES
REMEMB ERING THE GREATS By Nikki Freyermuth & Samantha Newell
Use 8Tracks? Check out this playlist of our favorite slaps by the deceased kings of Hip Hop we mentioned here and more. Download the “QR Reader” app and get listenin’!
22
CULTURE
M
”
Real Eyes. Realize. Real Lies. -Tupac Shakur
A
fter years of listening to music on the radio with the same repetitive beats and lyrics sung by the same bland artists, we can speak for a majority of the public when we say that it is near impossible for us to stomach one more song about blowing cash, acquiring b*tches and going to the club to pop bottles. 2 Chainz and Lil Wayne are child’s play: broken imitations compared to the rappers who came before them—they make a complete mockery of the rappers and producers who first introduced Hip Hop to the world. The rappers of the ‘80s and ‘90s revolutionized Hip Hop and spoke with substance. Yes, all rappers speak about the women they meet and the money they spend, but those who can speak about topics beyond those are the ones remembered as legends. The rappers we hear on today’s radio lack both the tenacity and ability to convey a message that makes music worth listening to.
Needless to say, we miss the original ‘80s and ‘90s rappers who created the game, especially those who are unfortunately not with us today. Rappers such as The Notorious B.I.G. and Tupac perfected their own distinct and unique style in such a way that no one today can even come close to recreating. So, to honor those rappers who are no longer with us, C Magazine brings you two of our favorite deceased rappers. 2 Chainz sit down.
The Notorious B.I.G. Bigger-than-life rapper, Christopher Wallace, otherwise known as The Notorious B.I.G. or Biggie Smalls, was one of the greatest rap artists to ever grace a microphone in the history of Hip Hop. Rapping about the hardships of the ghetto in Brooklyn, New York, the awardwinning rapper spoke up for those struggling on a day to day basis. In The Notorious B.I.G.’s most popular songs, “Juicy” and “Big Poppa,” we can hear the lighter side of Biggie, celebrating his inner playful self. Even so, what sets Biggie apart from the rappers we hear today are his more serious songs as well as his ability to focus on more hard-hitting topics. In his song, “Suicidal Thoughts,” Biggie Smalls raps about wanting to commit suicide, leaving the listener with the dramatic sound of a gun shot and the thumping of a heart. Today, it is rare to find a rapper who is willing to open up to his listeners the way that Biggie did. Not only did he rap about subjects beyond the materialistic, but he was also the sole reason for New York’s increased involvement in the rap scene when the West Coast was more dominant. Unfortunately, Biggie was killed by an unknown drive-by shooter on March 9th 1997, 16 days before his double-disc set, “Life After Death” was scheduled to be released. In 2000, it rose to number one on the U.S. album charts.
Tupac Shakur
Commonly known by his stage name 2pac, Tupac Shakur made a name for himself when he started writing rhythmic poetry about the many things that inspired him while living in California. What separated Tupac from other rappers of the time was his passion for poetry and theater. During his teens, Tupac was a huge fan of literature, but it wasn’t until after studying at the Baltimore School of Arts, that he discovered his true love for writing and the influence it had on people. Unfortunately, on September 7th, 1996, Tupac was shot multiple times during a drive-by shooting in Las Vegas. He died 6 days later at the age of 25. His love and passion for poetry truly made his music a form of art and set the standard for Hip Hop around the world. He took his real life experiences and incorporated them into his lyrics. Furthermore, the messages intertwined within his writing not only changed his life, but also the people who read them. He talked about everything from racism, sexism and loyalty to the crime scene and constant drug use that he was often exposed to. The incredible talent and passion in Tupac’s career made him relatable to Hip Hop listeners around the world. Though he only lived until the age of 25, he changed the music industry forever. When it comes down to it, a rappers legacy isn’t created solely based on looks or how much money he or she makes— it’s the quality of the artist’s lyrics and the effort put into each album that makes them great. Sadly, a bright future for impressive lyrics, meaningful songs, and incredible albums, is slim. Nothing can compare to the rappers who came before, especially in respect to those mentioned above. With this in mind, we would just like to say rest in peace to our favorite deceased rappers.
CULTURE MrCoolNJ/ Flickr
23
Christina Chu of Silicon Tech Realty Inc.
Christina Chu Broker Your Guide to the Silicon Valley
Salutes the Class of 2013!
“Every individal matters. Every individual has a role to play. Every individual makes a difference.� ~Jane Goodall
(650)-919-3725 ccchu26@gmail.com www.ChristinaChu.com