October 11, 2012

October 11, 2012 34st.com

HARVEST REVIEWED • PARENTS TAKE LOWBROW • MAYER HAWTHORNE INTERVIEW

october 11

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2012

3 HIGHBROW

the roundup, word on the street, overheards

harvest picks

4 EGO

ego of the week, dear ego

6 FOOD & DRINK

harvest review and guide, locavore diets, home-grown philly restaurants, fresh food

8 FILM

perks of being a wallflower review, student filmmaker of the week, the bent button

10 FEATURE

the story of philly's next public project

12 MUSIC

animal collective concert review, mayer hawthorne interview, spec retrospective

artist profile

12

FROMtheEDITOR

CHILLS

I knew the water felt chilly that morning. That morning, when everything in the world felt crisp and clean, ushered in by the cool breeze of autumn.

“Might have to turn the radiator on — BRRRRR!” I thought to myself, pouring the coffee grounds.

The news waited in my inbox: the iceman cometh…

OUR GAS HAD BEEN SHUT OFF. I’m no mail czar or bill boss, but I don’t recall being asked for money for something that rhymes with “smass” lately. “Smable” or “smelectricty,” yes. "Smass", no. Suffice it to say it’s been a while since we’ve paid our bill. In fact, it’s been since never.

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16 ARTS

design philly guide, campus gem, get up offa that, artist profile

18 LOWBROW parents take over, hair swaps

34TH STREET Magazine October 11, 2012

10

philly's unused tracks

fall concerts past

It's kind of cold now. Come huddle up with us á la "March of the Penguins" at tonight's Writers' Meeting.

20 BACKPAGE

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Gas is like love. You don’t know what you have until it’s gone, and you’re in bed spooning your best friend and begging him not to leave, else the ice demons get you in your sleep. It’s just like that.

I’ve heard of people going months without paying this bill or that. Does their gas get shut off? Do they go to bed wearing a down coat?

Take showers at their friends’ houses? Tiptoe to the bathroom wearing four pairs of socks? Do I care? I’m cold.

The man: one. 4113: zero. You win, PGW.

WRITERS' MEETING 4015 WALNUT 6:30 P.M.

frank fuckin' furness

34TH STREET MAGAZINE Elizabeth Horkley, Chicken Wing Joe Pinsker, Arm Steak Adrian Franco, Filet Mignon Hilary Miller, Rock Lobster Chloe Bower, Crown Roast Sarah Tse, Chuck Roast Laura Francis, Chicken Cutlet Inna Kofman, Dungeness Crab Stephanie Witt, American–Style Roast Paige Rubin, Boca Burger Zacchiaus Mckee, Shank Patrick Ford–Matz, Flank Steak Sandra Rubinchik, Brisket

Katie Giarla, Salmon Roe Patrick Del Valle, Frenched–Style Roast Isabel Oliveres, Prime Rib Abigail Koffler, Lamb Chops Alex Hosenball, Ground Beef Ben Bernstein, Pot Roast Kiley Bense, Baby–Back Ribs Ben Lerner, Halibut Cheeks Samantha Apfel, Jowl Megan Ruben, Short Ribs Eillie Anzilotti, Sushi–Grade Tuna Faryn Pearl, Short Loin Lizzie Sivitz, Scrag End Colette Bloom, Burnt Rump Roast Zeke Sexauer, Goat Loin Chops

Julia Liebergall, Pig Trotter Mariam Mahbob, Tenderloin Amanda Shulman, Riblets

Contacting 34th Street Magazine: If you have questions, comments, complaints or letters to the editor, email Elizabeth Horkley, Editor-–in–Chief, at horkley@34st.com. You can also call us at (215) 898–6585.

To place an ad, call (215) 898–6581.

Cover Photo: Sarah Tse

VISIT OUR WEB SITE: www.34st.com "No poop, no pesos." –A.H.

Contributors: Lena Backe, Kimberly Schrieber, Ande Davidson, Michael Shostek, Kelly Lawler, Gabby Abramowitz, Johnathan Wilson, Michelle Ma, Isaac Louis Garcia, Minji Kwak, Ariela Osuna, Nicole Malick, Fiona Glisson, Larry Sivitz, Susan Sivitz, Annie Pearl, David Pearl, Lauren Greenberg

©2012 34th Street Magazine, The Daily Pennsylvanian, Inc. No part may be reproduced in whole or in part without the express, written consent of the editors (but I bet we will give you the a-okay.) All rights reserved. 34th Street Magazine is published

by The Daily Pennsylvanian, Inc., 4015 Walnut St., Philadelphia, Pa., 19104, every Thursday.

CREEPIN' ON CRAIGSLIST

Although it's a brand new year, it's easy to get stuck in your same old rut. Highbrow hit up Craiglist personal ads to help you shake things up a bit. No foot fetishes or dick pics, we promise.

MAKE A FRIEND: Just a normal Thursday night, folks. Definitely not a murder about to happen.

"Today, I’ll be rolling and would like someone fun to walk me back from the Hospital of the University of Penn back to the gallery at Market East around 11:30. But I’d like to take it with a young stranger, female or male, so we can talk and laugh and it’ll be something cool you did today.

NO SEX OR WEIRD THINGS. I just wanna hook up with a friend who will let me talk fast and maybe touch their hair. I doubt you have many other more interesting things to do today. Just no freaky old men please I just want a nice experience..someone to joke around with and we can tell our stories to each other or something."

GET A SHAVE: Lather up, boys! Need a trim? This guy’s got you covered. BYO razor!

"Hey Penn swim team players. Do you need to get ready for the swim season with a body shave? Let me know. I can help with that."

BE A MUSE: This Miss Sunshine Sparkle is just so full of life and glitter and rainbows. She just wants to take your picture and make some colorful memories.

"Hello Philadelphia, I am a grad student at penn, and I am casting a net out to the fine citizens of philadelphia. I want to create photo adventures with you. Have any funny bizarre fantasies? Do you need something weird photographed? I’d love to take your picture! Looking for unique men and women of all ages. Get at me!"

THEROUNDUP

at

Math Professor: First, there were 35 students in my class. Now there are 13. Most have dropped, but the Chinese remain.

Girl: You put your penis in a taco shell?

Guy: Who hasn’t? All the toppings.

Girl: [sigh] I haven’t pole danced in so long.

Girl: The only people I’ve met at Penn who aren’t Jewish are, like, the athletes.

Sorority girl: If I’m going to have a margarita tonight, you cannot let me scream.

BY FARYN PEARL

G

overnor Mitt Romney recently announced that he would cut funding to the Public Broadcasting Service, specifically to shows like "Sesame Street," which has been running for upwards of 40 years. As someone who has had the opportunity to visit the actual street (and yes, I can tell you how to get, how to get there), this remark was particularly painful because it was just so dumb. "Sesame Street," with its memorable cast of Muppets, stays relevant because it continues to teach lessons that apply to people outside their target 2–5 year–old demographic. Lessons like…

It’s okay to go crazy every once in a while. On the surface, Cookie Monster is a hot mess. I mean, the guy goes insane for cookies. He’s the picture perfect glutton. Except…he’s not. At all.

Although he’s never going to mutate into the “Vegetable Monster,” a main point with him is that cookies are a “sometimes food”— you shouldn’t eat them all the time, making those rare moments when you do even more exciting and fun and delicious. Honey Barbeque Fritos Twists, highballs, TLC — whatever your vice, it’s okay to indulge. Sometimes. Just don’t go all crazy about it.

Everyone makes mistakes. Hey you! Do you remember when "Sesame Street" was super racist?

Well, it happened. Way back in the 70s, "Sesame Street" introduced a new Muppet named Roosevelt Franklin. He was supposed to give a voice to young black children. Unfortunately, that voice was that of a scatting, ill–behaved kid whose grammar was reminiscent of Huckleberry Finn’s Jim. But now "Sesame Street" continues to be the most racially– and culturally–inclusive show on television. Basically, if they can get away with creating the basis for Franklin Delano Bluth (and his greatest hit, “It’s Not Easy Being White or Brown”), you can get away with failing that one midterm.

You are somebody’s favorite. I’m going to make a broad analogy here, so stay with me. You know those kids who are in the most prestigious senior societies, chill with the Gutmann and get to be Egos of the Week? They’re the Elmos. They’re omnipresent, successful and completely loathsome to everyone else. But they also deserve their popularity, because (and you hate to admit it) they’re pretty cool people once you get to know them. However, not everyone’s an Elmo.

"Sesame Street," and Penn, has a cast of colorful characters. A place filled with only Elmos would get real insufferable, real quick. So embrace your quirks; someone likes you better for them.

34TH STREET Magazine October 11, 2012

Let's start this off with a big ol' congratulations to you for surviving Family Weekend! Snaps to you. Our parents left us alone like Katie Holmes left Tom Cruise. Ugh, we're over it. But your parents being here didn't stop you guys from leaving us with more than enough to gossip about.

Since we love you so much, we're bringing you a two–for this week: a psycho professor and a psycho student. Apparently, in one class in Huntsman, the professor hates it when students are late — so much so that he'll consider you late, even if you're two minutes early. To rectify this cray– cray situation, one student took matters into her own hands, sneaking into Huntsman in the middle of the night and changing the clocks, so no one is never late again! Huzzah! You tell us: genius or deranged?

Things got a little salty over at Charles Plaza this weekend. Apparently SK booked the place for their date party, but OZ was hosting a dirty rush event there too. Natch, insanity ensued. While the boys insisted on blaring house music, the girls kept changing it to pop hits like Carly Rae Jepsen and One Direction. A battle of one–upmanship ensued, with both sides chanting and singing "Happy Birthday," trying to be louder than the other.

Just make out already: it'll be faster and everyone ends up happy.

Are you ever overcome with a lack of cowboys carrying old–school Nokia camera phones in your life? Well fret no longer! Highbrow hears there's one spending his time on 40th, taking pictures of families and making sexist comments to girls. That's so #NotCool.

Rock the vote! Michelle Obama's nephew visited Penn this weekend and partied at APES. One drunk girl was heard shouting, "I voted for Obama," while others chanted out "Romney, Romney, Romney!" Democrat party or Republican party? Why choose? Everyone can be a part of the frat party. (Not you, seniors. Enjoy Smoke's.)

over heard PENN

THINGS I LEARNED FROM SESAME STREET

highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow

wordonthestreet

HIGHBROW

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highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow

EGO

EGOOF THE WEEK: Dan

Saris

Intimidating other giant football players by day and wimpy underage kids by night, offensive tackle and Blarney doorman/bartender Dan Saris majors in Molecular Biology, kicking ass and taking names. He's pre–med, he's sensitive and he knows you're still 20.

Street: What are you involved in on campus?

Dan Saris: I’m a football player, I’m a pre–med Molecular Biology major, I’m in Sammy — I was candidate educator last year — and I work as a doorman/bartender at Blarney.

Street: Do you think people

have treated you differently since you’ve started working at Blarney?

DS: Oh yeah. Well people usually try to act nice to me — especially girls when they wanna get their friends in. There was one time a girl came up to me, and I rejected her and she said, “No, no! I know Dan. It’s

cool!” And I’m Dan. So that wasn’t cool.

Street: Do you think bouncers or doormen (what’s the PC term?) generally get a bad rep?

DS: It doesn’t matter. And you either love ‘em or hate ‘em depending on whether your ID is good or bad.

Street: What’s the most commonly ordered drink at Blarney?

DS: By guys? High Life. Girls?

Vodka Tonic.

34TH STREET Magazine October 11, 2012

Street: If you were one of the drinks you make, which one would you be? And why?

DS: Bear Fight. It’s a car bomb followed by a Jaeger bomb.

And that’s why.

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Street: What kind of doctor do you wanna be?

DS: Orthopedic surgeon. Just playing football and having as many injuries as I’ve had, you kind of get a pretty in–depth view of what orthopedic surgery is…It’s just something that always seemed cool to me and is also a way for me to, once I’m done playing football, kinda stay near football and sports in general. My dream job would be to be an orthopedic surgeon for the Eagles.

Street: Who’s your favorite fictional doctor?

DS: The Todd [from "Scrubs"].

Street: So what do your football friends think of the fact that you’re pre–med?

DS: One guy on the offensive line calls me Dr. Saris and always asks me questions about

it. They kind of make fun of me at times and ask me questions that you wouldn’t necessarily know the answers to until you start going to med school.

I’m a Molecular Biology major.

I haven’t t a k e n anatomy or anything like that.

Street: What’s the best part of being on the football team?

DS: It makes working a lot easier because there’s always people who have your back in case something really crazy goes down. The best part is that you have 110 good friends from the moment you get here.

Street: Does football help you bounce?

DS: It helps that I know how to push heavy people. Like, I spend all day pushing around guys my size, so…littler people is lot easier. The average Penn student isn’t that terrifying.

Street: Bouncing Sammy versus bouncing Blarney?

DS: If you know anything

about Sammy, a guy my size is pretty nice to have on the door.

But when I would work the door at Sammy, it was about the ratio. At Blarney, it’s just “are you 21 or not?”

So the idea of ratio is thrown out the window, which is much nicer for me because I always felt like an asshole doing that to people.

Street: Who would you say is your alter ego?

DS: My alter ego would be Steve [the body guard] from Jerry Springer because he's powerful, yet kind and understanding.

He's a principled man.

Street: If you were a Kardashian, which one would you be?

DS: Who’s the big one?

‘Cause that one, I guess.

Street: Describe yourself to the Penn community in under five words.

DS: I know it’s fake.

Ego answers your most burning questions about what’s acceptable and what’s just wrong in this week’s patronizing advice column.

SHOULD I PEE IN THE SHOWER?

SHOULD I DATE MY TA?

YES: Here’s the deal. If someone tells you they don’t pee in the shower, they’re lying. And honestly, it’s not the biggest deal in the world. You shed so much gunk in there as it is, you might as well leave feeling completely cleansed. The pee trickles down the drain along with everything else, and on top of that, gets washed out by all the soap and shampoo you’re presumably using. Besides, everyone knows showers are like sweatshirts and jeans: they barely accumulate dirt and you only have to clean them once every few months. But if it really bothers you all that much, wear flip–flops. Side note: Baths — no. Pools — maybe.

YES: We at Penn do what we have to do to get ahead. If that means romancing Vlad, your Orgo TA from southern Romania, then you'd better start cooking up a homey pot of fish head soup to bring by his office hours this week. Vlad likes coffins, bats, long walks under the Eastern European moonlight (but never the sun HISSSSS) and making tea with your tampons. If things ever get weird, you can always gum a clove or 30 of garlic before your nightly make–out sesh. That or shove a stake through his heart (which he'll remind you beats only for your love) before he explodes into several bucketfuls of pus and gore and wasted affection…Wait, what are we talking about?

NO: If you’re considering relieving yourself in the shower, urine big trouble. Chemicals from your nasty douche pee will seep into the tiles and fester there, recombining and evolving into something new, something…insidious. Give it a day or two and you’ll either have sea monkeys or a flesh– eating virus on your hands, depending on how much asparagus you’ve eaten in the last week. If you go the flesh–eating virus route, we’re talking zombie apocalypse within the month. And then all your cells will die and your penis will fall off and you'll never be able to pee again.

Maybe: “If a tree falls in a forest and no one is around to hear it, does it make a sound?” The same can be asked of in–shower urination. The answer, friends, is that when you’re alone, it’s all systems go. Peeing is sterile, it saves water and it feels so good. It’d basically be wrong of you NOT to. The plot thickens, however, when your partner enters the picture — or, in this case, the shower. To perpetuate the perception they have of you as hygienic and at least somewhat attractive, act as though you’re one of those people to whom the thought of peeing in the shower has never even occurred. Unless, of course, they’re into the whole water sports domination thing. Then let that shower rain golden.

NO: Stop right there. This is dangerous territory. As a Penn student, you probably value grades above most other things, including your family and your values. Therefore, in no way do you ever want your relationships and grades to be correlated. Ever. Let’s be honest: the shelf life for romances (if they can even be called that) at Penn range from 2–6 weeks. Because classes are typically 15 weeks, that’s just enough time for things to get sour. The relationship will heat up, the power dynamics will make your interactions in the classroom sexual and weird for everyone and then your love will promptly fade, fizzle and collapse — all before you've taken your last two midterms.

At this point, either your grade is going to become contingent on your sexual performance (e.g. Ouch! Teeth! C–!) or you are going to have a stage–five clinger that you are forced to oblige. (e.g. “You won't watch season three of Bridezillas with me? B!”) Insert Macaulay Culkin "Home Alone" face here.

highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow

DEAR

MAYBE: Before you fall head over heels for your TA, do consider the following: is this romance blossoming in the midst of a liberal arts class where, when called on, everyone begins their sentences with “I feel like…” and sprinkles in words like “existential” and "esoteric"? Or is this a class in which everyone starts their hand–raising off with “Can you explain…” and then peppers in key phrases like “efficiency” and "diminishing returns"? If it’s the former, believe in yourself and follow your heart. If it’s the latter, we suggest conducting a thorough cost–benefit analysis.

Dear Ego, Yes: Of course.

No and maybe do not apply.

@34st

Making a costume?

We’ve got the threads that’ll make your costume turn heads!

214 South 45th Street (Between Locust & Walnut) 215.662.1663

34TH STREET Magazine October 11, 2012

Should I go to tonight's Street meeting?

Second Mile Center Thrift Store

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highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow

FOOD&DRINK

NEW KID ON THE 4000 BLOCK: HARVEST SEASONAL GRILL Harvest brings locavore chic to this side of the Schuylkill. | When Marathon Grill closed in May 2011, it left all of Penn wondering what would occupy the corner across from FroGro, down the block from Smoke's, kitty–corner to McDonald's and behind the Rave. As of two weeks ago, Harvest Seasonal Grill and Wine Bar calls this corner home.

The space has been completely renovated in what owner Dave McGrogan describes as a 70s California style. Warm wood, natural light, a large recycled glass bar and room for private dining characterize Harvest’s interior. The menu, which centers around local, organic foods, changes every season, and the majority of dishes are under 500 calories. We had quite the sampling (see below).

They have several dishes that go over the 500–calorie mark, de-

noted on the menu by a plus sign. Regardless, the chefs at Harvest are doing a spectacular job at packing tons of flavor into fewer calories than there are in a Big Mac. Executive Chef Anthony DiPascale told us that working at Harvest is vastly different from a typical menu development process because they

Caliente Clementine Margarita and flatbread

work with 75 farms throughout the year. They even work with farmers to create custom produce, like square watermelons, which fit perfectly on square plates for a summer salad.

To keep the calories on par, Chef Anthony relies on nutritionists and a computer program. Though most dishes are under the 500 calorie mark, DiPascale explained that if it goes over, they have a lot of fun with it; he talked of adding more and more meat to a charcuterie plate once it passed the threshold.

When asked how Harvest will fit into the life of a Penn student, McGrogan had given it some thought. “Kids who come from Northern New Jersey where their parents go to Whole Foods once a week are not going to get to school and eat McDonald's,” he says. He

SORTING THROUGH THE HARVEST First of all, Harvest is really good. We were more than a little skeptical about the restaurant's ability to make tasty food for under 500 calories, but they knocked it out of the park. When you try their fall menu, which will be there till December, don’t miss these dishes:

34TH STREET Magazine October 11, 2012

Pear and Blue Flatbread, $9: This sweet and savory appetizer is a perfect Thursday afternoon, thank–god–the–week–is–over snack. The blue cheese isn’t overpowering but plays well with the thinly sliced pears and fig glaze. We had no problem finishing this one off.

6

BY ABIGAIL KOFFLER AND ISABEL OLIVERES

Coq Au Vin, $20: And the award for the dish that most made us want to lick our plates goes to: the Coq Au Vin. This wine–glazed chicken has a crispy skin and a glaze that we wanted to order by the pint. Winter evenings and this chicken have a bright future together.

Squash Stuffed with Quinoa, $12: The vegetarian entree that we couldn’t stop eating was this squash dish. Chef Anthony told us that it started as a special but was added to the regular menu after they saw a demand.

Banana Cream Pie, $3: After a huge meal, all we wanted was a small bite of something sweet to call it a night.

Pear and Blue Flatbread The banana cream pie, served in a tiny cup, was tart and smooth, and the graham cracker “crust” on the bottom provided delicious crunch.

—By Abigail Koffler and Isabel Oliveres

Grilled Swordfish (left) and Squash Stuffed with Quinoa

firmly believes there’s a place on campus for diners who prioritize local, seasonal and healthy food that’s “relatively affordable.” He also calls Harvest “a good place to get educated about wine” and encourages students to try some and chat with the knowledgeable staff. They offer both full glasses, half glasses and $10 flights (a good way to try any three wines on a budget). While

Harvest is a little expensive for a full meal and wine, seasonal cocktails (just get the cranberry bourbon — you’re welcome) and flatbreads make it a viable option for Friday night drinks.

It gives Tap House a run for its money.

However, for affordable brunch along the lines of Marathon, Penn kids will have to keep looking. Sabrina’s, anyone?

PHILADELPHIA’S HOMEGROWN HOME–RUNS

Wawa isn’t the only thing native to the Mid– Atlantic states. Check out these Philly gems for menus that change with the seasons.

BY KIMBERLY SCHREIBER

Pumpkin BYOB & Pumpkin Market 1713 South St. & 1610 South St. Strolling around South St. giving you the munchies? Check out Pumpkin BYOB and Pumpkin Market for some of the finest, freshest fare in town.

Stop by the market for a casual lunch, or plan ahead and partake in Pumpkin’s $40 Sunday tasting menu.

The Farm and Fisherman 1120 Pine St. A James Beard runner–up and a veteran of Blue Hill at Stone Barns, Chef Josh Lawler is fully embracing the locavore movement at his BYOB, The Farm and Fisherman. An intimate and reasonably–priced eatery, this is the perfect place to woo that special someone.

One Shot Coffee 217 W. George St. Even Jason Mraz, who recently played an impromptu concert on the second floor of this Northern Liberties coffee shop, has figured out why the coffee here is worth such a hefty trip: it’s roasted by ReAnimator and Rival Bros. right here in Philadelphia.

table urban gardens to check out.

By Andie Davidson

Agatston Urban Nutrition initiative Dubious cafeteria meatloaf doesn’t cut it anymore, at least not according to the Urban Nutrition Initiative. As part of Penn’s Netter Center for Community Partnership, UNI focuses on a combination of healthy lifestyle and sustainability. This includes six community gardens at West Philly elementary, middle, and high schools and programs to educate students and parents about healthy food. The gardens also provide the community with fresh, affordable produce.

Penn Garden 3901 Locust Walk You don’t need to go further than Locust to find an urban garden: just west of Rodin College House, the Penn Garden sprung up in 2010 to educate the Penn community and support an environmental friendliness. A Garden Manager and student interns maintain the space, but the garden is open to the Penn community and volunteers get to take home some of the tasty results.

Greensgrow Farm 2501 E. Cumberland St. The original Philly urban farm, founded in 1998, Greensgrow now operates a fertile garden as well as a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, a farmers' market, a community kitchen and workshops.

oh hot damn, this is my jam. find out what goes into making local jam at 34st.com

LocavoreS eat locally–grown and–produced food (i.e. food produced within 100 miles of its point of purchase or consumption) Pros: Locavores tend to eat more fruits and veggies, making this diet über healthy, as well as sustainable.

Cons: Kiss your chocolate and morning cup of joe goodbye!

InvasivoreS eat invasive species — such as plants, pathogens and animals — that have disrupted habitats and decreased their native biodiversity.

Pros: As an invasivore, your hatred of squirrels can be totally justified.

Cons: Mmm, weeds…

Living Food DieterS (a.k.a. raw food dieters) eat mainly locally–grown organic food, but only in its uncooked state. Diet staples include raw fruits, veggies, nuts, grains and sprouts.

Pros: Very little prep time for your meals!

Cons: Bacteria + no heat = food poisoning ForagerS eat the types and quantities of food that a primitive hunter would have consumed. The diet staples include seasonally–available plants, nuts, berries, fungi, uncooked grains and, to a much lesser degree, game meat, fowl and fish.

Pros: You can feel more in touch with our prehistoric ancestors!

Cons: You have to eat 5–6 small meals per day.

Combo of the Week: Oreos and Peanut Butter

Someone Someonewill will know know the the Someone answer.

You. answer.

You. will Someone know thewillwill Someone know the answer. know the You. answer.

You. answer. You.

Continuing our obsession with LiLo’s filmography, we remind you that today is October 11th, the birthday of Annie and Hallie of "The Parent Trap." Eat this snack in their honor. We love you, Lilo.

When step, Whenyou’re you’reready readyforforthethenext next step, call 800-2Review (800-273-8439) call 800-2Review (800-273-8439) or today. or visit visitprincetonreview.com princetonreview.com today.

34TH STREET Magazine October 11, 2012

Why You Should Care: Urban farms such as these are one way the city is addressing its food desert problem. A food desert is an area where people have limited access to fresh produce and other nutritious foods. It's a problem if there are only corner stores instead of fully–stocked grocery stores, or if healthy foods are too expensive for low–income families. Communities living in food deserts face higher rates of obesity and diabetes, and Philadelphia definitely is plagued by food desert problems.

How nuts are those local eaters? | By Lena Backe

highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow

FARMING, PHILLY–STYLE Defining Locavores: There’s a ton of produce growing in the Crazy or Cool?

City of Brotherly Love. Here are a few no-

When you’re ready for the next step, call 800-2Review (800-273-8439) for theprincetonreview.com next step, or visit today.

When you’re ready call 800-2Review (800-273-8439) When you’re ready for the next step, or visit princetonreview.com today. call 800-2Review (800-273-8439) or visit princetonreview.com today.

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FILM

MOVIEMAKER PROFILE: JULIE WATERS Junior Julie Waters worked in the Original Movies department at Lifetime Networks this summer, getting an inside look into what the female–targeted television station was up to.

BY JOHNATHAN WILSON

Street: How was your experience at Lifetime this summer?

Julie Waters: I had a great experience at Lifetime. I worked in development for Original Movies so I read a ton of scripts. I was also able to attend department meetings and provide input regarding what was currently in development and potential new projects.

Street: Were you able to catch a glimpse of Lindsay Lohan?

JW: [laughs] No, I wish! My boss is the executive on that project though, so I watched dailies for it and it looked amazing! Everyone should watch [Lohan’s upcoming Elizabeth Taylor biopic] “Liz & Dick”! But I did see Eva Longoria and Jennifer Love Hewitt.

34TH STREET Magazine October 11, 2012

Street: Are there any secrets you can tell us about what goes on behind the scenes?

JW: I can’t tell you any secrets, because I could be sued. Literally.

But I can say that I was surprised about how they come up with film ideas. I always thought there was some huge process to it, but really it’s just a few people being like, “maybe this will work.”

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Street: What was the most enjoyable part of your experience at Lifetime?

JW: It was awesome that all of these executives really wanted to know what I thought. They liked that as a college student I had the “young person’s point of view” and took what I said seriously. I also got to watch the pilots for most new shows premiering this season.

As a huge TV fan, that was a big deal.

Street: Do you hope to work with Lifetime again?

JW: I would love to work for Lifetime in the future. Unfortunately, the entertainment world is nothing like OCR. If they have an opening it will be because a current assistant moves on. I’m certainly keeping my fingers crossed.

Someone should make a Lifetime movie about Paul Blart.

Pay us later.

3 QUESTIONS WITH KEVIN JAMES Street caught up with the “King of Queens” actor at the red carpet premiere of his new MMA–fighting comedy “Here Comes the Boom” at Philly’s Prince Music Theater.

BY BEN LERNER

Street: In the film, you play a high school teacher who decides to become a mixed martial arts fighter to save the school’s music program.

What was it like training for such a physically demanding role?

KJ: It was tough, I gotta be honest.

It was hard. I had to change up my diet. I worked out like three times a day with professional fighters. It was good. I got a lot of lumps from it, but ultimately, we needed it for the believability of the fight scenes.

Street: You co–wrote, produced and starred in the film. To what extent was it your brainchild?

Kevin James: It was mine. I’ve always had a passion for showing this ultimate fighting in a different light. It seems so brash to some people. And using it as a means of showing that this guy will sacrifice anything for his friendship and his school.

Street: What can viewers, specifically students, expect from the film?

KJ: I think they can expect a boatload of comedy. It’s different comedy than what I’ve done. It’s not, maybe, as juvenile as “Paul Blart.” It’s more organic comedy in the situation, but it’s

Kevin James strikes a pose at the Prince Music Theater

a big, funny, inspirational movie that I think everybody’s gonna love.

Check out Street’s review of “Here Comes the Boom” at 34st.com

PSA: PHILADELPHIA FILM FESTIVAL Starting 10/18, you can catch several festival films on Penn's campus. Don't miss: Opening Night: “Silver Linings Playbook” Jennifer Lawrence, Bradley Cooper and Robert DeNiro are getting mad Oscar buzz.

10/18 at Annenberg's Zellerbach Theater, 8 p.m.

“We Are Legion: The Story of the Hacktivists” 10/20 at the Rave Auditorium This documentary about the hackers group Anonymous is all too 6, 5 p.m. relevant to Penn as of late. We are victims!

“The Final Member” 10/21 at the Rave Auditorium Documentary about the world’s only penis museum, The Icelan- 6, 4:45 p.m. dic Phallological Museum. Yep. “Poltergeist” 10/26 at Shoemaker Green, Screening of the classic 1982 horror film on Penn’s newest grassy 9:30 p.m. area just in time for Halloweekend!

Closing Night: “Flight” 10/27 at Annenberg ZellerRobert Zemeckis will attend the screening of his upcoming air- bach Theater, 7 p.m. plane mystery–drama, starring Denzel.

By KELLY LAWLER

"MAID IN MANHATTAN" (2002)

REVIEW: “ARGO” IS SLEEK AND SATISFYING

BY ISAAC LOUIS GARCIA

Bad hair day, good movie: A Day in the Life of Ben Affleck

When did Ben Affleck start walking in the footsteps of Clint Eastwood and Orson Welles? After a string of flops a few years back, Razzies and critical disapproval quickly replaced Affleck’s “Good Will Hunting” Oscar nods. And less than a decade ago, most people probably thought of Affleck as Matt Damon’s less–talented best friend. But first with “The Town” and now with “Argo,” he’s showing everybody up, directing and acting in movies that are consistently among the best in their years of release.

So what is “Argo”? True story: in 1979, angry Iranian mobs stormed the American Embassy in Tehran and took nearly everyone hostage. The six who didn't managed to secretly escape by posing as refugees in the Canadian ambassador’s house.

In the film, the CIA struggles with their task to rescue the hostages. Then Mendez (Affleck) has a moment of clarity: pretend to make a movie. They disguise Affleck and the refugees as a Canadian film crew on a location–scouting trip for an upcoming science fantasy adventure, “Argo.”

On the surface, Affleck gives us a sleek, well–crafted thriller.

It is tense, funny and shocking; despite the heavy content, the flick is outright fun to watch.

But underneath the crowd–pleasing and suspense lies a refreshingly thoughtful political commentary. The movie doesn’t draw lines between the good guys and bad guys — it Directed by Lee Daniels makes you understand and even feel for the Starring Nicole Kidman, Zac Efron,= and Matthew Iranian people’s anger, even while masqueradMcConaughey ing as a man–on–a–mission story.

“Argo” is one of the best theatrical releases Before or after she pissed on of the year. Smart, provocative and satisfying, Zefron? it is nearly guaranteed a few Oscar nods.

Before Ben Affleck was a serious, hard–hitting director of movies based on true stories (and before he had adorable Jennifer Garner–babies), he was that guy who accompanied J. Lo’s butt to movie premieres, such as that of the 2002 classic, “Maid in Manhattan.”

The premise of this J. Lo flick is either cute or eye–roll–inducing, depending on your tolerance for rom–com plot devices: Jennifer Lopez stars as a hotel maid, who — through white lies and happenstance — is swept into a whirlwind romance with an aspiring New York senator, played by a pre–“Harry Potter” Ralph Fiennes.

“I only came to tell you that this can’t go anywhere beyond this evening,” J.Lo says with sass.

“Then you should have worn a different dress,” replies Fiennes, in a way that makes you forget he’s Voldemort.

The movie is predictable from start to finish, the circumstances are ridiculously contrived and the script is overrun with idiot plot syndrome (defined by Roger Ebert as “any plot containing problems that would be solved instantly if all the characters were not idiots”). Regardless, you can’t help but sigh over your ice cream as J.Lo glides down a spiral staircase dressed like a princess with the help of her fairy–godmother–like maid friends. In the end, all “Maid in Manhattan” lacks for the spell to be complete is a J.Lo– backed R&B soundtrack á la Whitney Houston and “The Bodyguard.” Hey, a girl can dream…

— Michelle Ma

“A MUST-SEE FILM!” –Sean Hannity, FOX NEWS AYN RAND’S EPIC NOVEL OF A WORLD ON THE BRINK

EVERYTHING HAS A BREAKING POINT

Directed by Ben Affleck Starring Ben Affleck, John Goodman, Bryan Cranston and Alan Arkin

34TH STREET Magazine October 11, 2012

If you paid attention to the coverage of the Cannes Film Festival at all this summer, you may have heard about “that movie where Nicole Kidman pees on Zac Efron.” That film is Lee Daniels’s “The Paperboy,” and there isn’t much else to say about it. The director’s follow–up to Oscar–winning “Precious” is really just a barrage of disgust, ranging from the already–infamous urination sequence to entirely unnecessary sex, violence, profanity and gore.

The titular paperboy, Jack (played by Efron in a rare non–dreamboat role, although he does dance in the rain in tighty–whities) is really just a plot driver. His older brother, Ward (Matthew McConaughey, whose greasy hair is entirely un–1960s) is investigating the (possibly) wrongful murder conviction of Hillary Van Wetter (John Cusack).

Charlotte (Nicole Kidman) is the dumb/crazy blonde in love with Hillary via correspondence.

It’s an already absurd set–up that the film only makes worse by piling more clichés on top of it. It moves at a snail’s pace through the investigation, while showcasing horrible characters doing horrible things, trying to convince us that it is realism rather than just depressing and gross.

The film deals in dichotomies and parallels, whether it is between white and black, rich and poor, poor and poorer, guilty and innocent, North and South and even British and American. But it’s not clear what is being said about the dualities though, other than that they exist and that there’s tension, which is something you learn about in the fifth grade. It’s not clear what the film is saying at all. Perhaps “The Paperboy” is tied too much to its source novel to branch out on its own. It simply gets muddled in a swamp of bad accents and racial stereotypes almost as thick as the swamps the characters themselves are forced to wade through.

FILM REVIEWS

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REVIEW: “THE PAPERBOY” FAILS TO DELIVER

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the Viaduct. The corridor, which connects several neighborhoods north of Center City with a number of Philly’s main museums and historical institutions, stands defunct, an eyesore to outsiders and often overlooked by locals.

30 years ago, Paris faced a similar dilemma regarding the discontinuation of its Vincennes railway line. The line was abandoned in 1969, but was not allowed to sit idle for long. Bringing in a team of architects and landscape designers, the city repurposed the structure to form the Promenade Plantée, the first elevated railroad to be established as a public green space.

Since then, the transformation of abandoned railroads has grown into something of a worldwide trend. Atlanta and Chicago are in the process of implementing similar plans, while the High Line in New York, first opened to the public in 2009, has been held up as an inevitable point of comparison for the viaduct project. Much like the High Line, a park on the viaduct would open up a new pedestrian path for the city, but it

diverges from New York’s project in that its width would also allow for bicycle traffic.

Philadelphians had their eye on their own abandoned railroad and its undeniable potential long before the High Line was completed. In 2003, a team of locals led by Sarah McEneaney and John Struble founded the Reading Viaduct Project — inspired by the grassroots efforts of the Friends of the High Line — with the intent of developing the elevated portion of the Viaduct known as the SEPTA spur.

Penn quickly caught on in 2004, after then–City & Regional Planning graduate student Kyle Gradinger brought the space to the attention of Penn Praxis, the student and faculty consulting practice in the School of Design. Teaming up with the Reading Viaduct Project, Penn Praxis hosted a weekend–long design competition focused on the railroad. However, “ownership of the Viaduct,” says PennDesign Professor Eugenie Birch, “presented a challenge in implementing any of the ideas.”

Part of the land is owned by Reading International, which once controlled the region’s railroads and now oversees global cinema and real estate development, while a smaller portion is owned by SEPTA. At the time of the competition, “neither owners had any interest whatsoever in the project,” Birch says.

However, several years later, the development began gaining momentum. In 2010, Paul vanMeter and Liz Maille formed ViaductGreene, which incorporated plans to develop both the SEPTA spur and the old rail line’s underground portion — the full three miles. Along with the Reading Viaduct Project, they opened communication with the Center City District to conduct feasibility studies, funded by grants from the William Penn Foundation and Poor Richard’s Charitable Trust, on developing the area.

The analyses concluded that renovating the area along the lines of ViaductGreene’s and Reading Viaduct Project’s ideas would be less expensive for the city than de-

The Reading Railroad (orange, above) runs from Fairmount to Chinatown North.

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Photos by Megan Ruben

molishing the entire structure.

Fast–forward to 2012. With the establishment of the new Barnes Foundation and the With Art campaign, Philadelphia has been making strides to recreate itself as a global center for the arts.

While these efforts have caused the rest of the world to take note, the viaduct maintains the potential to connect Philadelphia’s arts scene to the city on a more localized scale.

According to co–founder of the Slought Foundation and Penn English and Art History lecturer Aaron Levy, a viaduct physically running between the museums and Center City would “encourage the museological culture of the city to become more demographically responsive” to the social and cultural tensions already in place in Philadelphia.

Ultimately, though, “social relationships are not built around physical infrastructures alone,” Levy says. “Construction on the viaduct would necessitate civic engagement and cooperation that must extend beyond structural designs.”

In March 2012, with further grant funding and SEPTA’s support, designs were incorporated for the elevated SEPTA spur of the railroad. Paul Levy, chief executive of the Center City District, along with Mayor Nutter and commerce director Alan Greenberger, entered negotiations with Reading International to include the remaining portion of the space in the designs. The incorporation of the Reading International–owned section would solidify the viaduct as a crucial artery for Philadelphia’s cultural heart.

Yet, the Reading Viaduct project’s recent momentum has left behind a wake of opposition.

Preliminary plans to establish a Neighborhood Improvement District (NID) in Callowhill were vehemently rejected by locals last February. Properties in that section would be assessed an extra seven–percent tax, raising about $250,000 a year to be used for cleaning streets, planting trees, and adding lights. Over a dozen such districts have been implemented in the past 20 years with overwhelming support. But the Callowhill NID was the first to be rejected. Why? Many of the neighborhood’s older and lower income residents argue that they have been kept in the dark about the planned district, which they see as merely clearing the path for the Reading Viaduct development. If the Reading Viaduct vision were to be realized, it would continue to raise property values that have already been climbing in Callowhill and Chinatown North communities over the past few years. According to Birch, there are both winners and losers: while property owners would enjoy greater values, renters would soon suffer the brunt of escalating property taxes.

Such fears prove valid in light

of the High Line project. Before it was constructed, the lowest property values of the surrounding residential areas remained eight percent below the median for Manhattan. By 2011, however, they had appreciated above and beyond the residential values of the entire borough. In fact, such lower–priced areas experienced a correspondingly faster rate in value escalation.

Groups such as the North of Vine Association (NOVA) insist that the vacant spaces should instead be utilized to incorporate low–budget housing. NOVA agrees that the neighborhood needs improvement, but continues to push for the installation of surveillance cameras and floodlights for better security as an alternative to an NID intervention.

Paul Levy has continued to work on expanding low–budget accommodation while vanMeter emphasizes the idea of developing the space in portions. Gradual implementation of the plans would accommodate both housing construction and work on the viaduct. “To issues of financing and gentrification,” he says, “our response to that is we see them all as design problems with workable, usually stimulating and exciting solutions.”

In the midst of all this momentum, vanMeter recognizes the issue of transparency as a dominant source of opposition to the project. “As co–founder, I feel a responsibility to meet with as many people as we can. Our work is to inspire the inspired in the most open, accessible and transparent way possible. That’s how I came to introduce both the Temple and University of Pennsylvania classes to the site.”

Some of those students — Penn Design senior Susan Kolber, along with Amy Syverson

and Diana Fernandez from Temple — have converged to produce "above | below | beyond," an exhibition of their designs for the railroad opening tomorrow at Next American City. One track in the maze of dialogue about the viaduct, the show aims to lift the proverbial veil that often exists between urban development and the local community. The exhibit, which includes an open discussion board where audiences can share their own creative visions, aims to include city residents in the planning process.

Kolber, along with her partners from Temple, expresses hope that “collecting and exhibiting student designs and information would give Philadelphians an example of the possibilities and inspire them to think of their own ideas.”

Even with efforts like "above | below | beyond," ViaductGreene and the Reading Viaduct Project opening Philadelphia’s eyes to the potential of the unused structure running through its midst, the actual implementation of the viaduct vision has still more obstacles to tackle. Securing funding, Kolber said, will require a detailed design of its own, as will collaboration with the surrounding neighborhoods. The final push? “Political will,” vanMeter says. “That’s about it. Political will.”

THE BLOOMINGDALE TRAIL [CHICAGO, IL] The most similar to the Reading Viaduct in size and vision, the Chicago version is also getting the people involved through a sponsored exhibition of community members’ photographs of the site.

THE BELTLINE [ATLANTA, GA] By far the biggest undertaking, the BeltLine encircles all of Atlanta in a complex network of footpaths, public transit and plenty of parks.

MIDTOWN GREENWAY [MINNEAPOLIS, MN] The protected, bike-friendly alter ego of the midwestern city’s main drags.

PROMENADE PLANTÉE [PARIS, FRANCE] The original repurposed railroad, this flower–filled cultural gem in the 12th arrondissement will look familiar to anyone who’s seen "Before Sunset."

Eillie Anzilotti is a senior from Oakland, CA. She is studying English with a concentration in Creative Writing.

Megan Ruben is a junior from Denville, NJ. She is studying Art History and is pre–med.

Eillie and Megan are co–editors of the Arts Section.

MADRID RÍO [MADRID, SPAIN]

34TH STREET Magazine October 11, 2012

34TH STREET Magazine October 11, 2012

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here’s something inexplicably thrilling about following the winding, rusted metal of an abandoned railroad track and disappearing beneath the hums of a city only a story above. The Reading Viaduct is somewhat like an industrial treehouse, awarded only a passing glance by passerby, but treasured as an untold secret by a select few that have been drawn to its hidden charm. A three–mile expanse of unused railroad that stretches above and below about 55 city blocks, the viaduct unobtrusively descends below residential Fairmount. It weaves its way beneath the Parkway, through the impenetrable darkness of underground tunnels and a jungle of wildly overgrown plant life. Its transitions are characteristically abrupt and unforgiving; it has the stubborn self–assertion of a forgotten industrial hero deemed irrelevant by the rapidly changing face of Philly’s economy.

The roots of this pseudo– urbanized wilderness first began to take hold of the site in 1984, when trains ceased to run through

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A brief overview of other cities’ efforts to repurpose transportation arteries

A riverside maze of parks and walkways spanning six distinct neighborhoods, Spain’s take on the project also includes facilities for everything from tennis to BMX. 11

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LOL

MUSIC

CONCERT REVIEW: ANIMAL COLLECTIVE AT THE MANN CENTER

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he stage at the Mann Center looked just like you'd expect at an Animal Collective show: strewn with giant fluorescent teeth and resembling a mouth. For some reason, multi–colored tendrils also flanked the center of the stage. It was clear just from walking in that this concert was going to be an all–consuming psychedelic experience.

The experimental pop band Micachu and the Shapes opened the show with their signature enthusiastic electro beats.

Though it was a relatively short set, catchy beats and sonic synth sounds prepped everyone for the experience that followed.

After a short intermission that smelled of booze, weed and anticipation, the lights dimmed.

The members of Animal Collective nonchalantly walked on stage amid cheers. Immediately, strange imagery was projected onto the tendrils and teeth. Fog

ALBUM REVIEWS The Vaccines — “Come of Age”

engulfed the stage. Blue lights cut through the dark. Psychedelic sounds wafted their way into eager ears.

Though lacking flashy or energetic showmanship — the members of Animal Collective

lective experienced live is an intense affair. The music hits your ears in waves; the visuals flicker and twitch in the dark. In particular, the live version of “Peacebone” that closed the show turned the crowd into a mass of spastic dancing and rejoicing.

Their live performance was a visual and auditory delight, packed with rhythmic flows of music and Animal Collective falls asleep while gardening d r a m a t i c definitely did not jump around cinematics. Even the hipsters or pander to the crowd, let alone couldn’t help but dance. introduce themselves — the sheer quality of the music more — Minji Kwak than made up for it. Though some bands would be better off sticking to studio albums and recording studios, Animal Col-

Described as heralding the return of guitar–driven rock music, the Vaccines’ sophomore album “Come of Age” proves that a 21st century rock band does not need a synthesizer. Though the Vaccines’ melodies are at least mildly original and the lyrics are occasionally clever, there is nothing particularly innovative about their treatment of the genre. They shamelessly rehash their influences, — namely the Strokes and the Drums. Asinine lyrics aside, the melody of “Post Break–Up Sex” is too similar to the Ramones’ “The KKK Took My Baby Away.” The lyrics are for the most part underwhelming and clichéd. Guitars growl and the cymbals smash while frontman Justin Young mumbles with impotent rage about the petty problems of today’s bored and unfocused youth. With lyrics like “life is easy when you’re easy on the eye,” the song“I wish I was Girl” is deluded and misogynistic. We’ve heard it before, only better.

— Fiona Glisson

34TH STREET Magazine October 11, 2012

Freelance Whales— “Diluvia”

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In their sophomore effort, indie pop rock band Freelance Whales deliver a dreamy explosion of noise.

“Diluvia” is a treat for the ears all the way through — there are no slumps in the middle or any throw–away songs. “Aeolus” opens the album with an electro–lullaby accented by bell rings and lofty vocals. It has a haunting quality that is carried throughout the entire album: “Winter Seeds” in particular is charged with emotion and folksy nostalgia. “Emergence Exit” closes the album quietly, with vocals elegantly flowing over serene instrumentals. With poignant lyrics and delicate layers of sound, “Diluvia” is a graceful stroll that showcases Freelance Whales’ growth.

— Minji Kwak

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ST

Street chats with SPEC’s Fall Concert Artist, neo–soul star Mayer Hawthorne about his hip–hop sensibility, the nine–to–five grind of touring and keeping it classy. He plays tonight at 8 p.m. at Harrison Auditorium with Cheers Elephant in SPEC's annual Fall Concert. By Ariela Osuna

Street: Tell us about your new album “How Do You Do.” MH: “How Do You Do” was a big step for me because it was the first album, with "A Strange Arrangement," where I was really trying to make songs that I would want to sample to make raps. That’s where the whole thing came from. I was a hip– hop producer and I was tired of paying for sample clearance so I decided I would just make my own samples. But “How Do You Do” was the first time I was actually able to approach it from the perspective of just making the album of songs that really represented me.

Street: How would you describe your own music style?

MH: Well, my style I always describe as “flashy but classy.”

You gotta be original and do something different and unique and stand out from the crowd.

But I always make sure that I keep it classy.

Street: How do you feel about coming to Penn?

MH: I’m super excited! I’ve

Street: What kind of show can Penn students expect?

MH: You can definitely expect a show. That is the important word there. We don’t do concerts. This is a show. We work harder than any band in the world to make sure nobody ever walks out of a Mayer Hawthorne show disappointed.

We’re like a football team, you know? We analyze the footage from the night before and we study and we make improvements every night to make sure that every night the show was better than it was the night before. You’re going to definitely want to be there.

Street: What’s your typical day–to–day life on tour like?

MH: It’s incredibly fun but it’s a job just like everybody else.

We work longer than a regular nine–to–five job. A lot of people think we just go around the world and party — and we do — but we also, you know, we pull into a city and there’s not usually much time to hang out. We pull in and we set up our equipment and we sound check and we usually have time to grab a quick dinner before it’s show time and then we pack and haul up, hop in the bus and we go to the next city and we do it all over again. A lot of people think we go and do a show and then we hang out there for like a couple days and chill. That’s not usually the case. We don’t get to go home after a show. It’s very little down time. But it’s what I always wanted to do.

Street: How have you responded to the new attention from the media?

MH: I make music that I think is fun. Whoever listens to it and loves it, I love you, and whoever doesn’t like it, that’s totally all8

Film polled you to find out how you are getting your Sunday afternoon

good too. I don’t make music you can go listen to and that’s MH: There’s been a lot of crazy movie xes.popular Here’sartist. whatfine. we learned. BY ANTHONY KHAYKIN to be thefimost stuff. I don’t know. I think the I make hough music we thatallIknow thinkthe is watch Hugo in theaters. And we most memorable moment for you guess then that Penn studope. I understand that it’s not Street: What’s the craziest me may be like the really young Internet is for porn fit this mold of overworked Ivy dents would prefer to get their for everybody. you don’t fan has well, ever with doneonly for kids that come to the (thanksIfAvenue Q), like the thing Leaguea students RomCom fix online withshow free it, there’s a million other bands you? sometimes.

Kids will come with bedroom is no longer the only about 17% of Penn undergrads streaming websites like SideReel parentsrather everythan once area being ceded to digital terri- watching movies at the Rave ev- their and Ch131 payinfora while.

I’ve had kids who will tory. For every girl with daddy’s ery semester. services provided by Netflix and come up and they’ll just run up AmEx, window browsing on But how about the other ste- Redbox? and pose next to me and then Fifth Avenue has been replaced reotype, the one that says all colWhile 75% of us watch movwill50% snap apay photo with online shopping. And lege students are poor? The free somebody ies online, else nearly for and they won’t even say hi, FYEs everywhere have virtu- movement of information made it. I hear Horrible Bosses —likea cardboard standup. ally been rendered useless (pun possible by the interweb makes I’m newarelease on iTunes — That’s is hysalways hilarious to me. intended) with the existence of terical,It’s butsuis per humbling.

Whose recommendations do you take? the multifarious iTunes store. it worth the 50 Things are no different here 1.5 salads at 47.7% Other Street: Any last words? at Penn, where the Rave gets Sweetgreen 40% 40 MH: AIFriend heard that Penn nearly half the traffic for the it students would Cinema Studiesfor me out of a actually voted midnight screenings of blockhave cost if 30 Major 26.2% 25% 25% groupProfessor of like bands buster hits like Twilight as Hulu I had seen it or TAa hundred 20 and IStreet just wanted into theaters? say how does the day after the newest much that meant to me. episode of 30 Rock airs. This Ramen That noo10 *Students surveyed were allowed to choose more out of all those bands, youaren’t guys makes sense. We Penn students dles than one option.

0 chose me to come to perform are too busy procrastinating that bad, I that was really incredible on Penn InTouch and designguess.to hear that.

I’m super honored.

Can’t ing funny lacrosse pinnies for entertainment accessible and The average Penn student wait to come to party with y’all. the clubs we’re involved in to inexpensive to anyone with an (who is anything but average, if Cheers. leave the comfort of our beds to AirPennNet account. Wouldn’t you ask Amy Gutmann) watch-

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34TH STREET Magazine October 11, 2012

Street: How was it working with Snoop Dogg for “Can’t Stop”?

MH: Snoop understands the magic rule and that is that the song is number one. After all these years, he still has a tremendous amount of love and passion for music. That’s an amazing thing. And all kinds of music, not just hip–hop.

never been to Penn. I heard it’s beautiful. I’m anxious to try out some of the food Penn’s campus has to offer.

34TH STREET Magazine December 1, 2011

Street: What was your transition from “Haircut” to “Mayer Hawthorne” like?

Mayer Hawthorne: I started my career as a hip–hop DJ and producer. I’ve been doing that my whole life really. I’ve only been singing for a couple years.

So, this is definitely something that is still very new to me and something that I’m still learning every day. But it’s something that I’m really enjoying.

DO YOU PAY PER VIEW?

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MAYER Hawthorne FILM

*A simple of 100 Penn surveyed to c 13 their film vie

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RETROSPECTIVE Mayer Hawthorne is playing this Thursday, but he's only the latest in a long–running win–streak for SPEC. Street walks you through SPEC's past performers in this brief look back on the Fall Concert series.

Deer Tick and Fun.

The Pains of Being Pure at Heart

Steven Lynch

Alt–folk paired with the writers of last year’s youth anthem “We Are Young”?

Possibly not the best combination, but considering the recent explosion in Fun.’s popularity over the summer and across the globe, SPEC really hit the motherlode on this Fall Concert. While we may not all particularly enjoy Nate Reuss’s vocals or lyrics, few can doubt the hype around these alt–pop masters. Deer Tick, on the other hand? Perhaps as an opening, the more mellow, folksy outfit served as a good counter–balance to Fun.’s operatic nature.

Though at the time of their Fall Concert simultaneously hailed and chided for their absurdly long name, TPOBPAH grew in popularity, eventually returning to campus a year later to play Pilam. Keep your eyes peeled as the band continues to slowly gather prominence in the indie–sphere.

Maybe in the future you can count yourself lucky as TPOBPAH end up selling out…well, probably not Madison Square Garden, but maybe the Electric Factory.

Perhaps the black sheep on this list, Steven Lynch isn’t only a musician — he’s also a comedian! He doesn’t really fit in with the later fall line–ups, and maybe that’s why none of the later bands tell jokes or anecdotes. Of course, prior to Lynch, SPEC had no Fall Concert, so something is better than nothing, right?

Lynch says something presumably funnier than this caption

Nate Reuss interrupts the photoshoot of a White Stripes cover band

Fun fact: the band's photos double nicely as Gap ads

34TH STREET Magazine October 11, 2012

The Philadelphia Orchestra

UNLIMITED CONCERTS

Though critically–acclaimed, Local Natives may not mesh excellently with Penn’s campus, but campus's indie music fans flocked to this one. Yet another example of SPEC's exercising a balanced music taste, the Local Natives show proves that SPEC thinks before it chooses fall artists — no huge flop here.

$25 Membership

eZseatU College Ticket Program Yannick Nézet-Séguin Music Director Photo: Pete Checchia

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Local Natives

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The poster for Local Natives' new low–budget film "Brokeback Titanic"

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Individual leases (per person)w/ utilities included* Washer and dryer in every apartment Private study room Fully furnished w/ full-size beds State of the art fitness center 2-story city-view clubroom w/ walkout terrace 24-hour secured lobby access

BOLD, STATE-OF-THE-ART STUDENT APARTMENTS student lifestyle is your boldest choice for off-campus freedom. Philadelphia’s new landmark is at 39th & Walnut with 14 floors, street-level shopping and restaurants, all right next to University of Pennsylvania.

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34TH STREET Magazine October 11, 2012

The Radian’s daring lines and cutting edge

*restrictions apply on electric usage.

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ARTS

S U P M CA S GEM

EXHIBIT

"PAPER: A DECKLED EDGE"

Van Pelt is filled with paper…duh. Book pages, file paper, printer paper, note cards, newspapers — the place is one big paper cut waiting to happen. To add to the list, everyone's favorite library is now hosting an exhibition on the paper artwork of Lesley Haas. When you walk down the hall to Weigle, stop and take a peek in the glass cases on either side of you. In a mixture of two– and three–dimensional pieces, Haas reveals just how limitless paper can be — did you know you could make sculptures of bottles, shoes and dresses out of pulp? She experiments with different types of paper, including handmade sheets containing plants and seeds, as well as scraps of letter, stamps and photographs. The outcomes are beautiful textural collages that evoke a distinct nostalgia for the days of scrapbooking and letter– writing. By the time you reach your booth in Weigle, you’ll be making plans for all those old exams and used notebooks you’ve stored over the years for no apparent reason. Haas’s extraordinary creations have graced the rooms of many major art spaces, such as the Museum of Arts and Design in New York and the Smithsonian International Gallery in Washington, D.C., and now our very own VP. The next time you want a study break (which, let’s face it, is every five minutes) check out the exhibition. We promise you it's more interesting than your Econ homework.

—By Ciara Stein

… and let Street satisfy your culture cravings every week with these Philly arts finds. BY MINJI KWAK THE ASSASSINATION OF JESSE JAMES Plays and Players Theater 1714 Delancey Pl. On stage until 10/28, 8 p.m. $15 – $50 Grab your cowboy boots and 10–gallon hat and head out to the Wild West this week for some good ol’ fashioned theater.

This deadly roadshow takes place in an unmarked underground saloon and tells the story of one of America’s most infamous outlaws and bank robbers, Jesse James.

DARLING’S DINER PRESENTS "THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW" Darling’s Diner 1033 N. 2nd St. 10/11, 8 p.m. $30 Time warp over to Darling’s Diner dressed as your favorite "Rocky Horror" character to enjoy a screening of the cult classic. The night will include a buffet, open bar and goodie bag full of props. Make sure you dress to impress — there will be a costume contest and Rocky Horror Karaoke!

FRESH JUICE AT THE PERFORMANCE GARAGE The Performance Garage 1515 Brandywine St. 10/13, 8 p.m. $15

34TH STREET Magazine October 11, 2012

Watch the passage of time personified through dance. Tori Lawrence and her dancers — covered in congealed pieces of dry, clay–like materials — perform Awakened Ruins, a creative piece about the remnants of time and the allure of nostalgia. Insightful and interesting, this enlightening performance isn't one to miss.

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TEA CEREMONY Shofuso Japanese House and Garden Horticultural and Lansdowne Dr. 5070 Parkside Ave., Suite 2104 10/13, 1 p.m. $30

Check out an interview and additional works by graphic design artist and painter Vincent Snagg online at 34st.com

Tea addicts will love experiencing a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at Shofuso. Omotesenke Eastern Region Chapter will conduct the ceremony, and participants will get to drink a bowl of matcha green tea and try a traditional seasonal sweet. Come and indulge in this 450–year old institution.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The Design Philadelphia Festival will showcase a diverse array of multimedia works in over 100 different events around the city.

By NICOLE MALICK

Printing in the Open: Common Press The Print Center 1614 Latimer St. 10/11, 6–8 p.m.

SEPTA Makeover Spring Garden Station & Girard Station at Broad Remember the good ol’ days of chalk advertisements on the stairs of the Quad? Well you ain’t seen nothin’ yet. Hop on the Broad Street Line and check out Margery Amdur’s 4,000–square foot ground painting at the Spring Garden subway station. While you’re at it, stop by a larger–than–life installation by Roger Woodward at the Girard station. And for the thoroughly confused, this is all part of a SEPTA art program that has addressed Philadelphian transitory spaces since 1998. Major culture points, SEPTA.

“Printing in the Open” will walk you through a wardrobe makeover. Substitute your favorite T–shirt, tote bag or collection of Fling tanks for some do–it–yourself artwork. This interactive event invites you to print unique designs on your choice of apparel. Did we mention it’s free?

Free Happy Hour and Underdogs Bluecadet 1101 N. Hancock St., Unit 101 10/11, 5–7 p.m.

Locals Only: Neon Signs Inspired

by Your Favorite Dive Masthead Print Studio 340 Brown St., 2nd floor Through 10/12 Judging from your Facebook muploads, you’re relatively familiar with the inspiration for this exhibition — those classic neon signs that find their way into your drunken pictures from downtown.

Well, Masthead Print Studio is paying homage to their special glow. Various local illustrators and artists offer viewers their take on the neon logo. Sober photo–op, anyone?

Jewelry Trunk Show, Cocktails and Conversation Scarlett Alley 241 Race St. 10/12, 4:30–8 p.m.

Check out Brooklyn–based designer Nora Kogan’s trunk show to snag some swanky accessories.

With elaborate pieces mimicking scorpions, tigers, matchsticks and a Man Ray aesthetic, this merch is certainly worth the trip. Added bonus? You get a chance to chat with the designer as you shop. Maybe you’ll finally figure out how to work that brooch your grandma gave you last Christmas…

34TH STREET Magazine October 11, 2012

Bluecadet, one of Philly’s largest interactive agencies, presents free drinks, free vegan hotdogs and of course, free art. Playing an active role in the city’s recently launched With Art campaign, this Northern Liberties locale offers interactive touch screens that exhibit its many contributions to the world of advertising. This is the company that designed world– renowned photographer Steve McCurry’s website (!!!). And not only are the hot dogs free, but the buns are gluten–free.

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DESIGN PHILLY FEST: OUR PICKS

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LOL

LOWBROW

LOWBROW’S PARENTS WRITE THE SECTION Lowbrow hopes that you had a wonderful Family Weekend filled with free food, hugs and your mom doing your laundry. Sadly, our parents couldn't make it this weekend — primarily because they do not love us. So we decided to have them, as repayment for skipping out on the most important weekend of the year, write our Lowbrow section for us this week. To repeat: Our parents really, actually, legitimately wrote this stuff.

BY LIZZIE SIVITZ AND FARYN PEARL

LIZZIE ON HER PARENTS:

FARYN ON HER PARENTS:

My father, Larry, is the funniest person I know. This chess master, boxer–puppy enthusiast,and former comedy writer resides in Seattle, WA and continues to write comedy routines for me (which I do not ask for) — most notably, a weirdly Jewish– and lesbian–centric comedy routine he wrote for me in an email that he does “not recall sending.” Here’s an excerpt: “Hey, I’m Lizzie Sivitz! That’s Li–z–z–i–e –– Si–vi–tz. If you count the Z’s in my name, yeah, you’ve got it, you may have already won a medal in the Jewish Olympics.” And, “No, I was not on dope. I had ‘inhaled’ only two Tequila Sombreros. I say, ‘Fuck the ‘Too Large’ Splash award!’

The party sombrero fit me pure and simple! I was there to make a statement…on behalf of the Czech Republic…and on behalf of lesbians everywhere. (Big Laugh)!!” There’s no joke that you’re not getting because you don’t know me — it just really does not make sense.

My parents, David and Anne Pearl, are wonderful, loving and completely supportive of me, despite what you are about to read. David is an engineer–turned–businessman who wrote for the DP as a columnist way back in the olden days. His column was called “Pearls of Wisdom,” a punnerific title that, in my opinion, sets the gold standard for journalism. Anne Pearl is a former nephrologist and a regular contributor to College Confidential. He is a hoarder and she is an extreme couponer; in other words, they are the perfect match. They spent their wedding night in a hospital because David was severely allergic to the bouquet, poor guy. They now spend their time at their home in New Jersey drinking, watching TV (well, David does; Anne usually just plays solitaire on her phone) and worrying about my inevitably bleak future.

THIS IS LARRY’S CONTRIBUTION:

10 THINGS THAT STRIKE ME AS FUNNY ABOUT PENN.

BY LARRY SIVITZ, (FATHER OF LIZZIE SIVITZ, SEATTLE, WA)

1. Walnut and Chestnut are thematic street names? So why no Brazil Nut or Macadamia Nut? Would be easier to remember. Like, “My daughter lives at the corner of Pistachio and Pecan!” Why no puny Peanut for low–rent housing or top–drawer Cashew for luxury apts? More salt!

34TH STREET Magazine October 11, 2012

2. Yep, my father, sister and two daughters all went to Penn. Me? I can’t even find a parking space!

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3. Funny, Ben Franklin was an early riser!

My daughter usually sleeps until around 10!

4. Sansom buildings seem ripe for corporate naming sponsorship from Samsung or Samsonsite. Challenge: Architecture reminiscent of an early Soviet high rise.

5. I have visited Philly a great many times and STILL have not seen or met Terry Gross.

THIS IS ANNE AND DAVID’S CONTRIBUTION:

6. Why don’t all food trucks deliver? I mean they are already on wheels! C’mon!

7. Wharton School “building within a building” reminds me of a King Tut exhibit. Is this a business school, or a lost civilization?

8. I love the fact that if you miss the freeway exit while driving into town, you’re in another state.

9. The new Law School was actually constructed faster than my organic luncheon order at White Dog Café.

10. Cobblestones laid my shocks and struts to waste.

Note: After he sent this to me he followed up with this email: “Are you doubling over from uncontrollable fits of laughter from my “Top 10 Funny Things About Penn” list.

What can I say?! It’ s a gift!!

– Dad”

My mother, Susan, could not be reached for her contribution. She was at a dueling piano bar with her friends. I was in bed writing this and calling her repeatedly. She is obviously much cooler than me.

To get her back for having a better social life than I do, I’m going to publish this photo of her looking way overexcited.

I love 34st!

So what will your daughter be after college? A doctor? A lawyer? Investment banker? College is a wonderful place where you are free to explore your interests. Unfortunately, when you are interested in movies, theatre and art, your exploration may not end up in a career. No, after four years at a top Ivy League institution, which costs enough to purchase a couple of houses in much of the country, our brilliant daughter will graduate with the skills and experience enabling her to obtain the unpaid internship of her choice. That is, if she beats out the other 500 similarly qualified applicants.

Just as Willy Wonka’s father warned him about chocolate (in the Tim Burton remake), we told her that, “Classical Studies is a waste of time.” But she insisted on running away to Penn. And again, just like Wonka, we too told her, “Go ahead, but we won’t be here when you return.” Okay, we just cleaned up her room so it’ll be nice when she gets back, but we really hope she will have the means to find her own apartment.

Our parents, who were first–generation immigrants, worked hard in order to put us through school to become successful professionals. As it turned out, we worked hard so our kids could do Improv.

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Prominent Penn Hair

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Turns out this section isn't a joke this week.

34TH STREET Magazine October 11, 2012

Now serving brunch every Sunday!

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Girard Trust Company Building, 1905 (now the Ritz–Carlton)

Knowlton Mansion, 1880

FRANK FURNESS'S GREATEST HITS

Undine Barge Club, 1882

34TH STREET Magazine October 11, 2012

Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, 1871

Here at Street, we like to make sure you're always informed of the many cultural icons our dear Philadelphia has produced. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the passing of Frank Furness, the most kick–ass architect to ever leave his mark on this city. While you may simply know him as the mastermind behind Fisher Fine Arts Library, take a moment to acquaint yourself with some of Furness's other masterpieces around the city.

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Robert Lewis House, 1886

Bryn Mawr Hall Hotel, 1890 (now the Baldwin School)