Erie’s only free, independent source for news, culture, and entertainment Sept 4 - 17 / Vol. 3, No. 18 / ErieReader.com E I R

E READER

The Perry 200 Commemoration Concludes with Tall Ships Erie 2013, Marking the Celebration of Erie's Proud FOLLOWING UP ON THE WEIGHT OF WAR Past and Bright Future

THE REPUBLICAN GAME OVER SYRIA

THE MARCH ON WASHINGTON 50 YEARS LATER

NO FRACKING WAY

ERIE CHAMBER ORCHESTRA KICKS OFF NEW SEASON

PREVIEWS OF THE ERIE PLAYHOUSE AND MIAC UPCOMING SEASONS

ARTS ‘N DRAFTS

MUSIC, FASHION, TECH

FREE 2 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com September 4, 2013 CONTENT September9 4, 2013 FEATURE CULTURE 9 tall ships 12 COMMUNITY Editors-in-Chief: No Fracking Way Brian Graham & Adam Welsh anchor in erie Managing Editor: The Perry 200 Commemoration Ben Speggen 14 If We Were You... Concludes with Tall Ships Erie 2013 Contributing Editors: Here’s what we would do Cory Vaillancourt Jay Stevens NEWS AND NOTES 15 TO-DO LIST Copy Editor: Alex Bieler 4 UPFRONT Erie Chamber Orchestra Opening Contributors: Deny, Deride, Dismiss Night Celebration, Arts 'N Drafts Alex Bieler Pen Ealain 5 STREET CORNER SOAPBOX 16 ALBUM REVIEWS Matthew Flowers The Impending War in Syria Dakota Hoffman 17 STREET FASHIONISTA Leslie McAllister 6 THE WAY I SEE IT Garrett Skindell Rich McCarty The March on Washington 50 Years Later Ryan Smith Jay Stevens 6 TECH WATCH 18 Season Preveiws Rebecca Styn Mercyhurst Institute for Arts and Google Chromecast Bryan Toy Culture, The Erie Playhouse Designers: Mark Kosobucki Burim Loshaj Photographer: Ryan Smith Brad Triana of Lake Erie, which propelled The years from now celebrate? Jessica Yochim Flagship City to the forefront of We then must ask ourselves: Interns: From the Editors the nation’s mind and to the fore- What will we have done in the next Adam Kelly front of the future of America. fifty years to cause a stir amongst Ryan Maloney ver two years ago on a glory seamlessly shifted a meeting In this issue, Jay Stevens offers a future generations? What will we Tom Shannon bright, warm June morning, of the minds from that of bemoan- comprehensive feature of the battle, accomplish to warrant such exalta- Adam Unger two of our editors — Adam ing to that of jubilance. the ship, and what both mean to tion five decades from now? Welsh and Ben Speggen — joined The Niagara, the ship that Oliver Erie and how they’ve shaped both There’s a Native American prov- 32 W. Eighth St. #500 O Erie PA, 16501 a hundred and fifty or so people Hazard Perry climbed aboard after our past and our present and how erb that goes something like this: [email protected] piled into a conference room at the abandoning the Lawrence, wields our appreciation and recognition We will be known forever by the Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel. At that power over us, as our history of such will carry us through the tracks we leave. that time, the Reader was still in its often has the means to freeze us in future. So let us enjoy this last celebra- The Erie Reader is Erie’s only free, independent infancy with just three months of a moment of time, because for if But what does lie ahead? tion, this last moment before our source for news, culture, and entertainment. The Erie Reader is a forum for ideas and publishing under its belt, and at that only a moment, we can reflect back Dr. William Garvey, president time to revel in the past draws to discussion, and seeks to drive two-way time, Adam and Ben were there to to when the word “Erie” was on the of the Jefferson Educational Soci- a close. But let us not forget about communication with its readers. At the Erie both hear about the storied history tip of the nation’s tongue. ety and chairman of the Perry 200 our city’s bright future, the future Reader, we endeavor to highlight the best of Erie and to see how the future Fast forward over two years from Commemoration often labels this we must chart and leave for the of Erie by providing in-depth, magazine-style would be shaped in the next two that meeting. The pageants and experience as Erie’s “Brigadoon” next generation to commemorate journalism that cuts to the heart of the coming years. fireworks and parade have all come moment — that moment when the in fifty years. issues that matter to Erie. The Erie Reader They were there for the first pub- and gone, and the sun is setting people of our city emerge from the That future will be determined is published every other week at The Corry lic meeting of the Perry 200 Com- on our two-year celebration. And mist, join in grand celebration, and by the path we take from here, the Journal, 28 W. South St., Corry, Pa. 16407. The memoration. throughout that time, the Reader then slip back into time’s fog, only steps we embark on after the sails Erie Reader is distributed at over 250 high foot- Back then, pageants and fireworks has continued to champion Erie’s to wait to surface again years later; are lowered this September and af- traffic locations in Pennsylvania from North were just a thing of talk. The Grand success stories while also remaining in our case, another fifty. ter the city returns to a forty-nine- East to Girard to Edinboro. The Erie Reader Patriotic Parade was just an idea, critical of certain missteps taken So now that we’ve emerged from year life without such deliberate is also available by mail subscription; one year and Erie’s docks sat unoccupied by along the way to moving our city the haze of time and paid reverence purpose to celebrate. In these years, (26 issues) for $49.99. Send check or money order payable to Flagship Multimedia, Inc., to any Tall Ships save for one — the forward. to our past, it seems right that we’ll we will leave tracks, divots in the the address below. In addition to appearing Niagara. So it’s fitting and appropriate that slide back through the ether of the Earth that will undoubtedly be ex- in print, Erie Reader adds new content daily We tell so much of our story we conclude our commemoration present and await the future. But amined by those commemorating at www.ErieReader.com as well social media around that ship. And much of our of Perry’s victory over the Brit- we cannot recede into the plumes in 2063. We must now decide what sites. All rights reserved. All content © Flagship story draws inspiration from it. In ish with a festival centered around of the past and ignore the future, type of tracks we wish to leave: one Multimedia, Inc, 32 W. Eighth St., Suite 500, Erie, that room, more than two years ago, the ship herself — a bold emblem a destiny we are tasked with shap- worthy of celebration or one our Pa, 16501. No part of this publication may be County Executive Barry Grossman and icon of our city’s success. And ing. Our attention should now be children might wish to erase, or reproduced without permission. Direct inquiries shared an account of how just wit- it’s fitting and appropriate to tell focused on the remaining question: perhaps worse yet, ones our chil- to 814.314.9364 or [email protected]. nessing the Niagara sail by in all her the story of that battle, the Battle What will those who return fifty dren can’t see at all. September 4, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 3 UPFRONT News Deny, Deride, Dismiss of the

By: Cory Vaillancourt Weird By: Chuck Shepherd PTSD continues nearly unabated. What is being done, and who is doing it? Queen of the Night lmost exactly one year ago – Wednes- day, Sept. 19, 2012, to be exact – I in- he conflicted double life of Israeli Orthodox troduced you to Phillip Azevedo, an Jew Shadar Hadar, 34, might be as formi- Erie, Pa. native, combat veteran, and dableT to manage as that of an international spy. Bronze Star recipient who struggled to bear the Though deeply and defiantly religious, he typi- weightA of war. cally around midnight "trades his knitted white Phillip suffered from post-traumatic stress yarmulke" for a "wavy blond wig and pink velvet disorder, which subjected him to nightmarish dress" and takes the stage as a nascent drag queen, visions, a general edginess, and disturbingly de- according to an August Associated Press dispatch pressive feelings. Wounded in ways unseen and from Jerusalem. His gayness has alienated his ex- afraid to seek treatment because he feared his wife (who bars him from seeing their daughter, career as a Navy officer would be in jeopardy, he now 11) and is only grudgingly accepted by his agonized in silence until one day, not long after parents. As a bridge of sorts in his life, he has re- a session of heavy drinking and run-in with the jected the usual raunchy drag queen personas and police, Phillip lost his battle with PTSD and adopted instead that of a female rabbinic adviser, took his own life. Accebar Avrenem musing from the stage on optimistic teachings of He had a bright future ahead of him after be- Breslov Hasidic ultra-Orthodox Judaism. ing recognized by the Navy for his maturity, his competency, and his bravery. He had a close-knit Veterans are killing themselves at a rate of roughly one per hour. Government in Action family, a young son, a beautiful fiancé, scores of friends, and admiring classmates – all of whom various agencies of the federal government – that that the study was conducted by an agency with hiladelphia's Veterans Stadium, whose con- missed his subtle, almost imperceptible cries for spurred her into action. a vested interest in the result. Deny. Deride. Dis- struction was financed in 1964 by borrowing help due to ignorance about the signs and symp- Since Phillip’s death, an estimated 12,000 vet- miss. P$25 million (and untold more as part of a subway toms of PTSD that persist to this day. erans like him have taken their own lives. That’s And, let’s all try to wrap our heads around this expansion to service the stadium), was demol- Eighteen months after Philip hanged himself, one almost every hour of every day; although one: if mental illness and substance abuse cause ished in 2004 and is but a memory to the city's anguished and alone in the basement of his Mill- treatment programs exist, the numbers say that military suicides, then either something that hap- sports fans. However, nine years later, the city is creek apartment, his death has left lingering pain. enough isn’t being done. pens to combat soldiers causes these maladies, or still paying for it (though next year will retire the “The visions I have of him now are only from the And, sadly, our government has the terrible the armed forces of the United States actively $25 million bond and nine years from now, the knee down – his sneakers, the dark circle around habit of trying to make difficult, inconvenient, enlists mentally ill substance abusers. city hopes, will retire the stadium/subway bond). his neck. I can’t get them out of my mind some- and expensive problems go away by denying cul- We know that’s not true. What is true – and The city's deputy controller told PhillyMag.com times,” said Venus Azevedo-Laboda, Phillip’s pability. no damned studies are needed to confirm this in June, profoundly, "When issuing a bond to sister. Although Venus still experiences that lin- During the 1960s, the United States military – is that combat trauma causes PTSD in some build a facility, the debt payment on that bond gering pain, she said it also lessens, little by little, dumped more than 20 million gallons of Agent people, and PTSD causes mental illness and/ should not outlast the facility." each day. Orange – the infamous Monsanto-manufactured or substance abuse in some people, and mental “I’ve learned a lot, that’s for sure,” she said. “I’ve defoliant – on the jungles and farms of Vietnam. illness and substance abuse cause some of those nexplicable: The Oklahoma Department of learned a lot about grief, and about who I am When health problems began popping up in the people to commit suicide. Public Safety's solution to its legendary long as a person, and of course a lot about PTSD.” 1970s amongst Vietnamese civilians and Ameri- It is shameful, irresponsible, and outrageous for Ilines at driver's license stations was to create "In The pain is still there – and it always will be, she can veterans of the war, the government denied, our government to again begin a 20-year dance Line Online" registration, which it introduced added – but it’s no longer overwhelming. derided, and dismissed the claims, and it wasn’t around an issue that is claiming lives at the rate recently. Online registrants were beside them- “I was able to let go enough to move on, but I’m until the early 1990s that the government began of almost one each hour. Meanwhile, newborn selves, however, when they arrived on time across constantly reminded.” to acknowledge the existence of the more than non-profits like Boots on Ground – comprised of the state, only to learn that In Line Online mere- In the wake of her grief, Venus set out to learn 1 million people affected by this deadly poison. people who have been touched, firsthand, by the ly entitled them to a reserved place in the line for as much as she could about PTSD as a way to Then, in the early 1990s, veterans began return- horrors of PTSD – are left to address the prob- making future appointments to take their driver's heal; she threw herself wholeheartedly into advo- ing from the first Gulf War with unexplained lem while still coping with their own losses, and test. A spokesman acknowledged that In Line cacy, and in July formed Boots on Ground, which complaints of phantom pain, rashes, confusion, with but a fraction of the resources available to Online might have some kinks and thus would is currently in the process of acquiring non-profit nausea, and dizziness. Once again, the govern- federal agencies. be closed temporarily. [KFOR-TV, 8-15-2013] certification. ment denied, derided, and dismissed the claims, If Dr. Crum-Cianflone’s study is indeed the “Right now, the mission is getting the word and it wasn’t until late 2008 that the government resurgence of deny, deride, and dismiss, roughly oronto is facing such a crippling backlog of out – the signs, the red flags,” she said of the or- finally accepted responsibility for the 250,000 160,000 more lives will have been lost before challenges to parking tickets, reported the ganization, named after a colloquialism denoting veterans significantly impaired due to their ser- meaningful action comes from the organization TorontoT Star in August, that more than 73,000 the physical presence of troops in a combat zone, vice. that brought Phillip Azevedo home in one piece, citations from last year were still unresolved and with their feet on the terra, ready for action. “We Today, this alarming pattern – deny, deride, physically, but left him practically unarmed for an that many cases were proceeding even less hur- try to help the wives, the parents, and the caregiv- dismiss – seems once again to have manifested even greater battle. riedly. Mahmood-Reza Arab, a computer pro- ers, and we try to let everyone know they’re not itself in the discussion of PTSD. A study recently grammer who was ticketed for parking too close alone, and that there is help out there.” published by Dr. Nancy Crum-Cianflone of the Cory Vaillancourt is a brilliant writer/ to a hydrant in 2005 and who has dutifully met But is there? Naval Health Research Center posited that there complete hack and can be complimented/ all deadlines for making a proper challenge, was After the enormity of the loss Venus and her was no link between combat and the suicide rates heckled at cVaillancourt@ErieReader. recently scheduled (again) for trial before a judge family suffered, no one would have faulted her of troops. The study instead blames mental illness com. Find him on Twit- — this month (September 2013). A spokesman for crawling under the nearest rock and staying and substance abuse. ter @VLNCRT. To fol- said the "normal" wait time for a court date is there forever, trying to make sense of the sense- Nevermind that only 83 cases of suicide were low this story or com- "only" 18 months. [Toronto Star, 8-13-2013] less, or to forget the unforgettable. Instead, she included in the study. Nevermind that in almost ment, scan the QR code discovered a continuing need for awareness about 60 percent of those cases, the service member was or go to http://erirdr. ules Are for the Benefit of Us All": Ad- PTSD – a need unmet by the armed forces or not subject to a combat deployment. Nevermind com/gga15 "Rhering to "federal regulations," the Denver 4 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com September 4, 2013 Housing Authority ordered the immediate ejec- tion of the family of Sandra Roskilly (her mother and autistic son) — because Roskilly had been Street Corner shot dead in a random homicide in August. The mother, who shared the apartment with Roskilly for 10 years, said she was told that once the head of household is no longer present (no matter the Soapbox reason), the apartment must be forfeited. Said Roskilly's astonished brother, "(T)here was no The Republican Game with the Impending War in Syria question in my mind that my mother would at least be able to finish out the lease." By: Jay Stevens Great Art!

rtist John Knuth creates "broad swaths of yria is a mess. There's no clear side to sup- there are no suggestions on a possible solution. equated with treason. color that appear to be meticulous impres- port. The regime under Bashar al-Assad But then these men still think the invasion of How the times have changed. sionisticA abstractions," reported a Gizmodo. responded brutally to popular unrest. Syr- Iraq was a good idea. Now it feels as if Republican criticism has com writer in July, but in a video made for the ian rebels split into factions and sects and Still others, like New York Representative Peter nothing at all to do with Syria, and everything Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles, encouraged jihadists to join them. The only thing King, are opposed to Obama bringing a Syria to do with the president. At least in that they're Knuth revealed that he makes colors with paint Sthat's certain is that civil war will rage in Syria strike before Congress for a vote – despite 80 consistent. Republicans, above all else, seem to harvested from the vomit of about 200,000 for years. percent support for Congressional approval from view our nation's most critical issues through houseflies. Knuth raises the flies from maggots, As of right now, President Barack Obama is the American people, according to recent polls – a partisan political lens. From the debt ceiling then feeds them sugar mixed with watercolor mulling a military strike on the Assad regime for because “he doesn't need to.” King supports the to the budget to climate change to jobs to war, pigments, then coaxes the flies to regurgitate — using chemical weapons against its own people. power that the Bush administration wielded in instead of genuine policy debate or attempts to and then captures and uses the result. Of Knuth's Whether you support the strikes or not – and I pushing the country to war with Iraq. solve real problems, we have gridlock and end- accompanying high-minded explanations of his don't – you have to acknowledge it's a weighty And according to recent reports, top Congres- less partisan sniping. To Republicans, it's a game. purpose, Gizmodo wrote, "Once you decide to decision. sional Republicans think a vote on a Syria strike And the object is to win the game, not make make paintings from fly barf, you pretty much Too bad the American right has seen this only wouldn't pass a House of Representatives vote policy that benefits the country. forfeit any other subtext you'd like your audience as an opportunity to exploit the situation for po- for lack of Republican support – a noted change Or Syria. to appreciate." [Gizmodo.com, 7-15-2013] litical gain. in the philosophy of Congressional Republicans Sarah Palin, for example, voiced her opposition since the Iraq War. Jay Stevens can be contacted uspicion Confirmed: A British "art critic" And, yes, it all goes back to Iraq. at [email protected], and created the "Colne Valley Sculpture Trail" Then, when the country was faced with a very you can follow him on Twitter Sin West Yorkshire by inviting patrons to walk a questionable invasion based on evidence manu- @Snevets_Yaj. To follow this 3-mile path past derelict buildings and discarded factured by the Bush administration, no Republi- story or comment, scan the objects that the critic suggested, in a formal Sarah Palin, can stuttered or questioned or criticized. Instead, QR code or go to http://erirdr. leaflet, were purposeful art objects designed to doubts about the President's Iraq policy were com/6leru be provocative. (In reality, they were random voiced her junk.) An abandoned bathtub (titled "Wash Behind the Ears") evoked "contradictory con- cepts of filth and cleanliness ... in a countryside opposition to a setting," the critic wrote. A collapsed wall was built by fictitious artist Karen Braithwaite, who U.S. strike in Syria then destroyed it "with some sense of violence," "suggest(ing) a sense of bereavement, the turf above almost seeming to weep." The author spoke in a Facebook to BBC News in July but insisted on remaining Her happiness anonymous. [BBC News, 7-28-2013] post titled, “Let Police Report Allah sort it out.” is in the bag. otwithstanding the city of Detroit's various to a U.S. strike in Syria in a Facebook post titled, problems, residents still expect its police “Let Allah sort it out.” Nforce to behave sensibly, but in July, a police com- “We have no clear mission in Syria,” she wrote. mander's office blundered, releasing to all officers “There’s no explanation of what vital American a document concerning an order of form-fitting interests are at stake there today amidst yet an- bulletproof vests. Each individual officer's height other centuries-old internal struggle between and weight were on the email, but so were female violent radical Islamists and a murderous dicta- officers' bra cup sizes (which were initially neces- torial regime.” sary to assure body-armor fit so as not to restrict In 2008, in the heat of a presidential election, mobility — but obviously were no one else's she had a slightly different message about the business). [WJBK-TV (Detroit), 8-12-2013] Republican-run Iraq War. “Pray for our military men and women who are striving to do what's n August, prosecutors in Broward County, right,” she said in a video. “Also, for...our lead- the shops at the colony Fla., accused two Lauderhill police officers ers...sending them out on a task from God.” Pal- Iof an improper 2012 traffic stop, charging both in's description of the Syrian conflict of course 2602 west 8th street patrolmen in the squad car with demanding fa- perfectly describes Iraq. The only real difference (814) 833-5311 vors from two female motorists. Officer Franklin in the question of intervention is the political Hartley allegedly demanded oral sex from the party of the person suggesting it. That, or Palin is passenger, and his partner, Thomas Merenda, confusing George W. Bush with God. www.lescrago.com according to the charge, "asked the victim to Others claim air strikes wouldn't go far enough, punch him in the 'nuts,' meaning genital area." including Senators Lindsay Graham and John Said Merenda's lawyer, of the charge: "outra- McCain. “Our policies are not working,” said geous, outlandish and absurd." [South Florida Graham recently on the Sunday morning talk Sun-Sentinel, 8-9-2013] show circuit. “We need to do more.” Tellingly, September 4, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 5 Republican elected official stood on the steps mecast is probably less than a quarter of the size THE WAY I SEE IT alongside previous presidents, activists, lawmak- Tech watch and about one third the price. ers, and actors. All were invited – but each one The trend of digital media adapters is clear. The March on Washington and the declined due to scheduling conflicts or ill health. Google Chromecast It’s perfectly reasonable to expect that in the Great Divide 50 Years Later Each party organized its own events, deliver- next few years we’ll see similar devices that are ing its own views of the dream. House Speaker a quarter the size and a third of the price of By: Rebecca Styn John Boehner held an event to commemorate By: Dakota Hoffman, Epic WebStudios Chromecast. And, why do we need a separate the march last month, and Republicans gath- device at all? At a half-inch long and $10, a ered on Capitol Hill to host a separate luncheon don’t consider myself an early adopter of device could be included in a high-end TV n the 50th anniversary of the March honoring the march. And while there was clear technology. I still prefer books on paper, without us even noticing it in either the de- On Washington and the Rev. Dr. and repeated statements from both sides that this and I don’t feel the need to try out every sign or the price. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s iconic “I was not a partisan event, it’s clear that many of device or app that comes on the market. Ten years ago, we were tied to our comput- Have a Dream” speech, thousands the central issues that plague Americans today Nevertheless, when Google came out with ers. Now, we’re tied to our screens. But it’s easy of people descended upon the Lincoln Memo- – voting rights laws, high unemployment rates, IChromecast – its adapter that lets you watch to see how ten years from now computing will Orial Wednesday, August 28. I happened to be in immigration reform – still push partisan buttons. online media on your television – I decided I completely disappear into the environment. Washington, D.C. that particular day, and al- Today, both sides state that unification is need- wanted one immediately, which still made me Much like the first generation of smart though I didn’t have the opportunity to attend ed to fully realize Dr. King’s dream, yet, the way I too late to get one before the first batch sold out. TVs, Chromecast and its services are not as the event, I was able to watch the activities from see it, either show few signs of wavering – neither Luckily my significant other was quicker and smooth as they could be. After all, most of the my hotel room. And I found the fact that I had group showing compromise and both believing got one, and I’ve been playing with it for a week products and services we use today weren’t de- a chance to see the speech Dr. King gave exactly its way is the only way. This isn’t a new issue – now. signed for a smart world, but for a dumb one. 50 years to the day – at almost precisely the same and it’s something I’ve written about before. And I like it a lot. It was remarkably easy to set We can add smart chips to them that connect moment it occurred – a priceless opportunity. And while our current president faces a Repub- up, and I like the way I can control my TV from to the Internet, but that’s not what they were lican-controlled House of Representatives and a tablet or a smartphone. I’ve always been a huge designed for. Chromecast does its part to be- a Senate, while more Democratic, barely more fan of web video despite its limited streaming, gin bridging that gap. friendly, he has been largely unable to drive con- and Chromecast lets me watch video apps like To be truly smart, products and services “The arc of the universe siderable legislation since he officially took office Hulu and Netflix with ease. need to be designed with the Internet in back in 2009. But what really excites me is not what the mind, and we’re already seeing this in Chro- may bend toward justice, but There’s no doubt that 50 years later, the U.S. has Chromecast is, but what it’s going to be and how mecast. Although web-video viewership is seen great progress; but the last several years have that will change how I absorb media. still miniscule compared to conventional TV, it doesn’t bend on its own.” been marked with moments of great divide across As ad executive Bob Hoffman points out on there is already an entire ecosystem devoted both race lines and party lines. And at some his Ad Contrarian blog, only 3 percent of video to producing content for the Web and other point, we all need to stop doing what is in the viewing occurs online. The other 97 percent hap- alternative platforms. It’s just a matter of time During the events surrounding the day, the best interest of ourselves and work collectively pens right where it always has — on the bigger before other industries catch on too. granite structure of the great emancipator towards the greater good of all. If a half century screen, our electronic hearth. This shouldn’t be While all of this may sound far off, things loomed in the background. Several orators of- ago, these two parties with differing philosophies surprising; TVs are getting bigger and better. can change incredibly quickly. After all, just a fered their respective tributes – Dr. King's family, and ideals could unite during one of the most Why would anyone choose to watch video on a few years ago electric cars seemed like a pipe former presidents, actors, and more, yet President divisive times our country’s seen – to recognize a puny little screen? dream. Now Tesla has emerged as a serious Barack Obama’s speech, while paying tribute to necessary unification to further the evolution of Of course, it’s been possible to stream web vid- competitor, garnering 12 percent of the luxury the nonpartisanship that underscored the March our country in the name of basic human equality eo onto big screens for a while using smart TVs sports car market in California. on Washington half a century earlier, also drove – they certainly can unite now to resolve pressing or external devices, like Apple TV or gaming So, while I’m perfectly happy with my (ad- home the partisan essence of the event – even issues, lest the good of the people be sacrificed for devices, but the experience has been unwieldy. opted) Chromecast for now, what I’m really using Dr. King’s own words, “The arc of the uni- the pettiness of the few. You still have to navigate through a remote and excited about is the future it promises. verse may bend toward justice, but it doesn’t bend that makes it hard to browse through and find on its own,” which was a targeted statement to Love? Hate? Agree? Disagree? I want to hear what you want to watch. Dakota Hoffman can be contacted at Epic@ Republicans. from you. Email me at With Chromecast, however, you can just beam ErieReader.com and fol- Interestingly enough, during the speech 50 [email protected], whatever you want from your tablet or smart- low him on Twitter @ years ago, Republicans and Democrats stood col- and follow me on Twit- phone to your TV, making the experience much DakotaScottErie. To lected – shoulder to shoulder – demanding equal ter @rStyn. To follow this smoother and more natural. What’s more, it’s follow this story or com- rights for African Americans. However, during story or comment, scan the about the size of a large USB drive and only ment, scan the QR code the activities of the past week, the two groups QR code or go to http://er- costs $35. Compared to Apple TV, which is a bit or go to http://erirdr. barely interacted with each other. Not a single irdr.com/xeg8v bigger than a hockey puck and costs $99, Chro- com/nopqh

JUST TOYIN’ WITCHA By: B. Toy

6 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com September 4, 2013 No Fracking Way America International Gathering at Nelson Ledges

"I was pretty pissed then. And I'm still pretty By: Ryan Smith pissed," Frederick, voice quivering, told a crowd of like-minded people gathered at the first an- aime Frederick's story goes like this. nual No Fracking Way America International She didn't even know what fracking was Gathering at Nelson Ledges Quarry Park in when she first started getting seriously, Garrettsville, Ohio. "I can't afford to walk away. dreadfully ill. But even if I could, why the f—- should I?!" JIt wasn't long after moving into a back-country Frederick, who's been speaking out against home in northeastern Ohio around four years fracking since her experience, shared her story in ago, Frederick said, that the sickness – like "a front of hundreds of activists and others attend- never-ending intestinal flu" – showed up, and ing the No Fracking Way gathering, which also stayed, and got worse as time went on, caus- featured speakers, live music, informational tents ing chronic pain, vomiting, infection, and other and tables, arts and crafts, and more, in the idyl- problems. lic, pristine waters-flanked setting that is Nelson Ryan Smith Through it all, using her own common sense, Ledges. she kept drinking plenty of water. When I got there Saturday night, the main The first No Fracking Way Gathering took place at Some of the 20 or so doctors Frederick saw (all stage area's crowd was thinner, a hundred-plus Nelson Ledges Quarry Park in Garrettsville, Ohio. at a loss to correctly diagnose her problem) over or so, but their cheers for organizers/musicians the course of a couple years even told her she Uncle Eddy & Robin – longtime activists from And that's the kind of active, critical, common- there – and elsewhere – as long as those voices was likely just dehydrated and should drink even West Virginia – and others on stage was hearty, sense thinking that movement-leaders like Ed still need to be heard. more water. So she did – up to two gallons of it a and the words shared by Frederick and others and Robin Mahonen and Shields say needs to day, unfiltered, from taps fed by her home's well. were more than heartfelt. be tapped, as deeply as possible, in communities Ryan Smith can be contacted But she sure didn't get better. "This movement is gaining momentum," said where fracking's already made its marks, and the at [email protected], Frederick still didn't know why she was so another speaker, Doug Shields, the former Pitts- places where the drills may be going next. and you can follow him on sick, or much of anything about fracking and the burgh city councilman who in 2010 introduced We hope we don't have to come back here next Twitter @RyanMSmith- controversial practices by which the work of ex- legislation that's led to a still-active moratorium year to show where those against the industry Plens. To follow this story or tracting natural gas from deep within the earth is on natural gas drilling activity in the city. and its practices are coming from, Robin Ma- comment, scan the QR code or being done. But a few months before the start of "We took a long, hard look, and found this in- honen added, but we'll be happy to gather again go to http://erirdr.com/pnlax 2012, when convoys of heavy trucks and drilling dustry to be lacking in so many ways," Shields equipment started showing up not far from her said. And "people there, like yourselves, decided front door, she said her understanding became this is an important matter [that's] for the public more clear. to decide," he said. When it comes to the right It turned out a non-local, neighboring property to make informed decisions as drilling proceeds owner had leased dozens of acres for gas drill- elsewhere throughout the region, "it is time for us ing before she had ever moved in and soon found to take back that which is ours," he said. that several wells had already been drilled nearby. Increasingly, as demonstrated by an ever- So, Frederick had her well water tested. What deepening-and-widening discussion on the issue, was found, she said, was definitely enough to "we're winning" back that right, said Shields. make her stop drinking it: A high-level slew of And, he added, "that scares the hell" out of toxic contaminants – barium, strontium, toluene, those who'd perhaps prefer certain voices keep and others – all of which have been found to be quiet under the din of the drills' progress. "I have common pollutants in many areas where drilling friends on both sides" of the fracking debate, and, is occurring. one way or the other, "these people are passion- She's since slowly begun showing signs of im- ate" about their stances, said Kelley McGregor, a provement. But the drilling – and the wellspring Butler resident attending the NLQP gathering. of problems Frederick and many others claim "I'm just here to learn," McGregor said, to gain comes with it – has continued on. a fuller, rounded understanding of the issue.

September 4, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 7 SUNDAY TICKET

FOR MORE INFORMATION 8 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com September 4, 2013 Tall Ships Anchor in Erie The Perry 200 Commemoration Concludes with Tall Ships Erie 2013, Marking the Celebration of Erie's Proud Past and Bright Future

There's a quote from Winston Churchill about England that I always thought pertained to cities, too. He said, 'having once been great, we cannot endure being mediocre.'” Erie was born in a singular and historic sum- mer, one in which our city built a fleet of wooden ships and sent it off into danger. And, by doing so, won an important battle that helped shape the republic. This is our legacy. It's our identity. And the tall ships – with their dramatic silhouettes, their walls of wood, the canvas and rope that hold them together – these relics of bygone days should remind us what happened on here two hundred years ago and thus inspire us to carry on.

ept. 10, 1813, found a small fleet of American vessels sailing in a light breeze in the western waters of Lake Erie. The ships were arrayed in single file with a pair of stately brigs at the center of the line, and Swere headed directly for another fleet – this one British, with six vessels – which was hove-to and waiting for the Americans. Battle seemed inevi- table. On the American flagship, the USS Lawrence, was the 28-year-old fleet commander, Oliver

Contributed Photo Hazard Perry. In paintings from the era, Perry is depicted with untidy, dark curls thrusting for- In a daring move, Perry abandons the Lawrence to board the Niagara under heavy enemy fire. ward over a long nose, plump lips, and languid eyes – the epitome in looks of the era's handsome Romantic hero. Despite his portrait's calm, al- By: Jay Stevens the brig that won the battle, other tall ships will University on maritime and historical topics most bored aspect, Perry's face this day no doubt populate our harbor. There's the Friends Good relating to the Battle of Lake Erie. There'll also barely concealed the anxiety he must have felt. tarting Sept 5, Erie will host its Will, a reconstruction of the sloop that rushed be live music in the Labatt Blue Beer Garden at After all, the conditions for battle were far second tallships festival, Tall Ships off with Perry's famous victory message after the the convention center, mostly of maritime music from perfect. His fleet was undermanned, some Erie 2013. It kicks off with the Pa- battle, a ship less than half the length of the Ni- from Captain Tom Kastle, the Hardtackers, Lee 200 men short of what his ships would ideally rade of Sail when nine large masted agara. There are the two reproductions of War of Murdock, and the Good for Nuthin String Band. carry, and he was woefully short of experienced ships – including our own Niagara 1812 privateers, the topsail schooners the Lynx And in the H.O. Hurt Auditorium in the Blasco sailors – raw frontier militia formed too much of – will cruise into Presque Isle Bay and the Pride of Baltimore II, both fast-sailing Public Library, a collaboration between the Erie his crews. Worse still, a spate of fever and dysen- under full sail, and the city will un- ships with masts leaning rakishly aft. There's Playhouse, Gannon University, and the Flagship tery had swept the ranks and many were too sick dergo four days of festivities, lectures, music, and, the converted Dutch fishing ship, the Unicorn, Niagara League brings Erie the play, “Fortunate to fight. Perry himself was still feeling the effects of course, tall ships. It's the culmination of a two- which now runs a sailing program for girls and Victory,” a dramatic adaptation of the events of illness. Perry's ships, too, were a collection of year long celebration of Erie's role in history. Or, women. There's the St. Lawrence II, a Canadian leading up to and including the battle. converted merchantmen and hastily-built vessels. more specifically, Erie's role in the War of 1812 brigantine; the Peacemaker, a barquentine built “The first purpose,” said Garvey of Tall Ships The two biggest – the Niagara and the Lawrence, Sand in a battle that took place on the lake, a battle in Brazil; and the Appledore IV, a two-masted Erie, “is to celebrate the fact that we have the his flagship – were built of green wood of a mish- that could not have been fought nor won without schooner that usually sails in Lake Huron and Niagara. It's expensive to maintain, the state sup- mash of varieties. Both, too, had shallow drafts Erie – or more, a battle that birthed Erie. Saginaw Bay. And there's the steel-hulled Sor- ports less than half of it. Having tallship festivals and tended to scuttle to leeward in a strong wind. “As individuals, we live on past triumphs, on landet, the biggest ship in the festival, and, built every two or three years generates a lot of cash. His inexperienced men had little time to train high moments,” said Dr. William Garvey, presi- in 1927, the world's oldest full-rigged ship still That will keep the ship sailing.” with either the sails or guns. dent of the Jefferson Educational Society and sailing regularly. With its three masts and six That's the first and the most practical reason This morning, too, after spotting the British a chair of the Perry 200 Commemoration, in a banks of sail, she can spread as much as 13,000 for hosting Tall Ships Erie. It's a fundraiser for fleet to the north, his fleet had trouble exiting the phone interview. “We need that as a nation, too.” square feet of canvas. our city's iconic ship. That's the practical reason. harbor at Put-in-Bay, forced to beat directly into The Perry 200, of course, is the event series And for the second time in three years, the There are other reasons, too. Ones you can't a southwesterly wind through the shoals and nar- that brought you flag-raising ceremonies, picnics, ships together will create a skyline of masts that count in ledger book, but reasons that have value row channels of the islands off the north coast of music, history classes, pageantry, fireworks, and a hasn't appeared regularly in our harbor in over a nonetheless. Ohio. He would still be there now, with the Brit- very large parade, all in honor of Oliver Hazard century. “It reminds people of the importance of the Ni- ish ships swooping down among his disorganized Perry's stunning defeat of a British fleet on Lake This year, too, will be better than the last tall agara,” said Garvey, “and it does so dramatically. ships if the wind hadn't abruptly shifted to the Erie on Sept. 10, 1813. Tall Ships Erie is the final ships festival. Hosted in the Bayfront Conven- Without Perry's victory, we wouldn't be celebrat- southeast. That wind change allowed him to en- act. tion Center, Tall Ships Erie 2013 will feature a ing right now. Efforts do matter. ter the open lake quickly and erased his enemy's Besides the Niagara, Erie's reconstruction of video and lecture series sponsored by Mercyhurst “The city's pride stems from past successes. tactical advantage instantly. September 4, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 9 Even so, the wind must have been too light for men, Ohio men, men who had already fought his liking. The British ships, especially the larger at Tippecanoe or a number of savage frontier ships, the Detroit and the Queen Charlotte, had brawls with the Shawnee, Ojibway, Chickam- long twelves, long-barreled cannon that threw auga. American soldiers had been slaughtered shot accurately over distance. The Niagara and at the River Raisin by England's Indian allies, Lawrence had the squat, short-barreled guns and these men were eager to wreak revenge on called carronades that fired 32-pound shot, but the British in Detroit – the raids on area villages accurately only at very short distances. That had not quenched their bloodlust. Harrison had meant Perry needed to close the gap to the Brit- marched this army through hundreds of miles of ish fleet quickly, or else the long twelves would untracked wilderness and had endured a bloody rip his ships to pieces. On a calm day like this, siege at Fort Meigs on Ohio's Maumee River, there was a chance the wind would die altogeth- but was now bogged down in northern Ohio, er, leaving him stranded and helpless under the unable to march to Detroit for fear of the British British guns. ships on Lake Erie cutting off his supply lines As the Americans slowly approached the Brit- in his rear. He had sent a number of impatient ish, his men, too, must have shared their captain's letters to Perry. The men had met and liked each anxiety. In such light wind, there would be hardly other, and Perry no doubt felt pressure to relieve a rustle of canvas, and voices would carry far over Harrison of his worries. Was he now thinking of the water. The ships were ready for battle. On the Harrison's position, his supply line, the men who Lawrence, wet blankets would have been hung wanted to take back Detroit? around the powder magazine, the guns' shot racks Or maybe his dispute with his superior, Isaac filled, the galley fire doused, and sand strewn on Chancey, weighed heavily on him. Chauncey the decks to give sailors traction against slipping commanded all the naval forces on Lakes On- on the blood that would soon flow. No doubt tario and Erie, and Perry felt he had neglected the men stood at their stations in silence peer- his command, failing to support him with men ing through their gun and material. After ports at the distant reading imagined ships, wondering who This is our legacy. It's our slights into his recent among them would correspondence from soon be dead. identity. And the tall ships Chauncey, Perry had Above them flew submitted to the Sec- Perry's iconic battle – with their dramatic retary of the Navy a flag, reading “Don't letter of resignation, Give Up the Ship!” – silhouettes, their walls of which was even now the dying last words making its way to of his friend, James wood, the canvas and rope Washington D.C. “I Lawrence, in the cannot serve longer last moments of his that hold them together – under an officer who USS Chesapeake's has been so regard- losing duel with the these relics of bygone days less of my feelings,” HMS Shannon a few he had written. “I beg months earlier. The should remind us what most respectfully and exact colors aren't most earnestly that I known – but it was happened on here two may be immediately probably yellow letters removed from this on a blue background. hundred years ago and station.” He probably Perry had plenty of regretted sending it. time to ponder his thus inspire us to carry on. But a victory now actions at that time. would change every- What was on his thing. mind? Did he think of how he might measure Or was he thinking of his second-in-command up to his father, a renowned Revolutionary War and captain of the Niagara, Jesse Duncan El- privateer and frigate captain in the early U.S. liott? Elliott shared the same rank, “Master and Navy? Did he think of his own career, and how Commandant,” but at 31 was the older of the it went horribly awry when his first sizable com- two men and had more combat experience – in- mand, the sloop USS Revenge, struck shoals off cluding a dashing expedition in which he had of Rhode Island and sank? A court martial hear- wrested two enemy ships out from under British ing found pilot error to blame, but the incident cannon on the Niagara River and for which he stained an otherwise stellar career, and he found won Congressional commendation. Elliott, too, himself commanding shore defenses and gun- was a protégée of Chauncey, having served as his boats, not a frigate on ocean cruises, like other lieutenant on Lake Ontario. Only the luck of captains of similar experience. It was probably two months' seniority gave Perry command. Did desperation to regain his reputation that drove any doubts assail Perry about Elliott? Did he feel him to apply for a command on the Great Lakes. pressure to excel under the watchful eyes of an In 1813, Lake Erie was mostly wilderness and older and more experienced man and one who far removed from the high seas and glory he no no doubt felt he was more deserving of the post? doubt sought. Across the water, a band aboard the HMS He might have been thinking of the army in Detroit struck up “Rule Britannia.” A shot was Ohio under General William Henry Harrison, fired from the Detroit. It fell short, a splash in waiting for the outcome of the battle. Harrison, the water. Her second shot, however, found its a Virginia-born and extremely ambitious poli- target. There was a splintering of wood as the tician, had assembled his army in the Indiana heavy ball smashed into the Lawrence and killed territory made up of frontiersman eager to end a man. Perry could not return fire; his guns were British influence with the Native Americans in not in range. the region. These were Kentucky men, Indiana Perry now faced a decision. His fleet was strung 10 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com September 4, 2013 edgeable sailors on upper Great Lakes. sion: the people who lived there already. Native It was one customary trip that took Dobbins Americans. to Fort Mackinac in the Strait of Mackinac be- A new confederacy of Indian nations was tween Lakes Michigan and Huron in July 1812. forming in opposition to the land-grabbing and On July 17, the fort was stormed by 300 British unfair treaties imposed on their people by the regulars and hundreds of Indian allies, and taken federal government and the ambitious Indiana without a shot. War, the British troops informed territory governor, William Henry Harrison. A the surprised Americans, had been declared be- charismatic Shawnee chieftain named Tecum- tween their two nations nearly a month earlier. seh and his brother the “Prophet” drew many The War of 1812 was an odd conflict without followers with a mixture of revivalist religion and clear cause or outcome. Started ostensibly over the dream of a confederated Indian nation east British interference with U.S. trade and the habit of the Mississippi. of British warships of impressing – or forcibly Tecumseh needed the British, however, to re- taking – American sailors into their naval ser- alize his plans. Only England could supply the vice, the roots of the war go deeper than these guns and powder the Indians would need to few high-seas incidents. fight a war with the U.S. And England encour- For one, the British stood in the way of aged this hope – a buffer state on the Canadian American expansion in the West. There was a border would protect it from the Americans – lot of pressure for the new republic to push its but stopped short of an outright alliance. boundaries westward. The government was cash- Westerners were not happy with this British strapped, having borrowed prodigiously to fund influence. They were in near constant conflict its revolution, and unable to raise funds from a with Indians on their frontier, and they felt the tax-averse citizenry. Land sales raised cash, and British were responsible. They wanted to smash land grants allowed the U.S. to pay its obliga- Tecumseh's confederacy and end British influ- tions to many of its revolutionary war veterans. ence in the West, permanently. In 1811, militia And there were plenty of buyers. Immigrants – and U.S. regulars under governor Harrison broke notably Irish and French refugees – continued to up the confederacy's encampment on the Tippe- pour into the country, eager to buy cheap land. canoe River, but the battle only drove Tecumseh Nutrient-poor eastern soil combined with prim- into the arms of the British when war was de- itive agricultural practices – fertilizer wouldn't clared in June 1812 and the confederacy's war-

Contributed Photo be widely used until the 1850s – to drive east- riors were crucial to the British capture of Fort erners westward to virgin land. Mackinac. At just 28 years old, Perry led the fleet that fought for The acquisition of the Ohio River Valley from There, Dobbins was captured and granted pa- the future of the United States in the War of 1812. the British after the Revolutionary War and Jef- role – an agreement not to fight in exchange for ferson's Louisiana Purchase in 1804 gave the his release – and was ordered by the British to U.S. millions of acres of land to settle, but there transport paroled Americans to Cleveland. He out a little. The brigs were together, but his gun- Fulton had built the world's first commercial was one major impediment to American expan- made it as far as the U.S. fort in [Cont. on 20] boats were lagging behind. He could pull away steamboat – which plied the Hudson from New and consolidate his forces. After all, his fleet York to Albany – only five years earlier. Travel outnumbered the enemy nine to six, and threw was mostly powered by muscle – on foot or Starting at just a heavier broadside, too. Why not wait for more horseback – but boats allowed people to move $ auspicious conditions? Ones that would push large amounts of goods relatively easily, and Check out our the odds more in his favor? But that might mean rivers, lakes, and oceans were the early 19th- 19 putting off a battle for a few more hours, or pos- century highway system. But in 1812, the Great sibly a few more days or even weeks. Did he have Lakes were relatively isolated from the oceans PERSONALPERSONAL the time? and, therefore, the rest of the world. Ground for Or he could turn the helm over now and head the Erie Canal wouldn't be broken until 1817, directly at the British fleet with what he had. It the Welland and Lachine Canals not until the ENRICHMENT meant sailing bow-on at the enemy who would 1820s. ENRICHMENT pound him mercilessly as he closed, he unable In order to reach Erie, a traveler in 1812 need- to return fire for some time. It would be risky ed to go one of several circuitous and arduous – extremely risky. He would be playing into the routes. One route was along the St. Lawrence WORKSHOPS!WORKSHOPS! hands of the British, allowing them to exploit River, Lake Ontario, and Niagara River to Lake the advantages of their long twelves. But he Erie – but that required two separate portages, could fight here and decide the issue now. once near Montreal and again around Niagara Learn the computer, photography, and homeowner repair He ordered the signal flags hoisted –engage the Falls. Or up the Allegheny River and French skills you always wanted to .... in just a few short hours! enemy – raised more sail and turned the Law- Creek from Pittsburgh and over a 14-mile dirt rence to starboard towards the six British ships. track from Waterford. Or up the Hudson to Al- The Battle of Lake Erie had begun. bany, up the Mohawk Valley to Lake Ontario. And so on. Winter drifted snow on the roads UPCOMING CLASSES t the outbreak of the War of 1812, and froze otherwise navigable rivers and lakes, Intro to Computers - Internet and Email Intro to Digital Photography Erie was a frontier settlement of a and a trip to Erie that might take days in good few dozen buildings and about 400 weather could last weeks in bad weather. Intro to Computers - Working with Photos and Files Plumbing for Homeowners souls. It was first settled by Anglos The isolation and rough frontier life appealed Electricial Wiring for Homeowners Intro to Social Media in 1795, shortly after the federal government de- to adventurers and entrepreneurs, including cidedA a land dispute between New York, Penn- Daniel Dobbins, who first saw Erie in 1795 as Speeding Up Your Internet Connection sylvania, and other states over the “Erie Triangle” part of a surveying party. He must have seen the – a triangular tract of land that fits roughly over natural harbor formed by Presque Isle and imag- present-day Erie county – in Pennsylvania's fa- ined much potential, because he stayed in Erie To find out how to enroll vor, giving that state its only port on the Great permanently to work aboard ships that traded on CALL OR CLICK TODAY! Lakes. Erie residents were mostly farmers, and Lake Erie. By 1803, he was captain of a mer- merchants and sailors dabbling in salt, fur, and chant sloop, the Good Intent, which was one of lumber trade. only a dozen on the Lake. Several years later, in 814-868-9900 In 1812, of course, there were no gas motors, 1809, he would buy his own ship, the schooner no cars, airplanes, or railroads. Livingston and Salina, and by then was one of the most knowl- EIT-CONTINUINGED.COM September 4, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 11 SEPTEMBER 4 - 17 If We Were You... only online, so be sure to get yours before head- most 30 months ago, his brewing enterprise was Richard also said, “A penny saved is a penny WEDNESDAY 9.04 ing on down to Cinemark Tinseltown USA. but a sapling, bending whiplike in the winds - but earned.” Accordingly, this class is free. When: 7:30 p.m. no longer. Since moving from the Brewerie and When: 6 p.m. Drum and Sun Where: 1910 Rotunda Dr. putting down roots at his own brewery (behind Where: 1341 W. 26th St. Percussion may very well have been humanity’s Contact: Tugg.com/events/4675 Hungry Howie’s and next to CATV on West Contact: wfcerie.coop first foray into making music thousands of years 12th Street) Lavery’s beers have gained notori- Battle of Lake Erie Monument ago; if you’re looking to get in touch with your FRIDAY 9.06 ety from here to the east coast for their quality, Commemoration primal self, get to Presque Isle State Park a few drinkability, and overall yumminess. And starting Designed by Sean Plunkett of Weber, Murphy, hours before sunset and surrender to the drum Stoned & Beautiful with today’s grand opening of the pub, you can Fox under the direction of Geiger & Sons Me- circle’s pounding, animalistic rhythms. Better yet, It always helps when a good band takes an active drink it in the very same building where it was morials, this memorial will forever stand as a bring a drum and share your primeval talent - interest in pleasing their crowd. Groovy Cleve- made! Enjoy the intimate feel of this small, cozy, reminder of Erie’s role as the city that build the for as Poor Richard says, “Hide not your Talents, land jammers Stoned & Beautiful certainly do, old-world style public house, grab an ox roast fleet that built the future. Read Jay Stevens’ cover they for Use were made: What's a Sun-Dial in wanting to rock the faces off of every person (Not sandwich and some chips, and get to work - those story in this issue, then join local dignitaries from the Shade?” in the “Silence of the Lambs” Buffalo Bill sense, beers aren’t going to drink themselves. the Perry 200 Commemoration Commission to When: 7 p.m. mind you). The trio will be travelling down to the When: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. help dedicate this lasting lakefront legacy. Where: Beach 6 crooked i for some fresh faces, so make sure to Where: 128 W. 12th St. #101 When: 5 p.m. Contact: Your inner neanderthal prepare yourself for a groovy sonic onslaught. Contact: LaveryBrewing.com Where: Dobbins Landing When: 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Earth’s Eye: A Festival of Writing Contact: Perry200.com THURSDAY 9.05 Where: 1013 State St. in and of the Natural World Contact:Facebook.com/thecrookedierie Attention writers - aspiring or otherwise! Poet WEDNESDAY 9.11 Scatter My Ashes at Bergdorf’s and essayist Lia Purpura, in conjunction with Mercyhurst University’s fashion merchandis- SATURDAY 9.07 faculty from the BFA program at Penn State Goodell Gardens Farmers Market ing department presents - for one night only - a Erie, the Behrend College will conduct this It's harvest time, and that means it's the perfect screening of this 2013 documentary about the Lavery Brewing Company writer’s workshop en plein air at Presque Isle time to visit the farmers market at the beautiful iconic New York department store. Tickets are Pub Grand Opening State Park.Your $40 registration fee allows you to Goodell Gardens and Homestead. The market very limited as of press time and are available When we first introduced you to Jason Lavery al- participate in fieldwork, writing exercises, panel features farmers from all over Erie and Crawford discussions and a presentation by Purpura, who Counties selling produce, meat, cheese, eggs, you may recognize from such fine publications as honey, baked goods, maple products, and more. The New Yorker or The Paris Review. When: 3 to 6 p.m. When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Where: 221 Waterford St., Edinboro Where: Pine Tree Shelter at Presque Isle State Park Contact: goodellgardens.org Contact: behrend.psu.edu/festival or [email protected] THURSDAY 9.12 SUNDAY 9.08 The Art of Forgiveness with "The Kings of Summer" Shawnta Pulliam Parents? Who needs parents! Let’s build a house See and hear Erie Reader 2013 40-under-40 in the woods, and live off the land all summer alum Shawnta Pulliam do what she does best long! At least, that’s what the three teenage — nurture and inspire with her wisdom and her protagonists of this movie – who have never words. Her talk, presented by UPMC Hamot apparently read “Lord of the Flies” – decided. and held in Room 2 of the Lincoln Educational Although this film, presumably, does not end Center at the Hamot Women’s Hospital, centers with conch-taking and fatty-killing, it is a unique on the gift you give yourself — forgiveness. Reg- coming-of-age flick that screened to rave reviews ister online at upmc.com/classes, because as Poor at Sundance this year, and kicks off the Maria J. Richard says, “Doing an injury puts you below For Our Upcoming Langer Film Series at Mercyhurst University’s your enemy; revenging one makes you but even Taylor Little Theater. And, most excitingly, the with him; forgiving it sets you above him.” Live Music Schedule, Erie Reader’s very own version of James Lipton – When: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Managing Editor Ben Speggen – will host a chat Where: 118 E. Second St. with the movie’s co-producer, Mercyhurst alum Contact: 877.6000 Go to facebook.com/ Eric Hollenbeck. When: 2 p.m. Songs and Sonnets by Jim Morrison Where: 501 E. 38th St. Ride the snake to the ancient lake with the lizard sherlocksparkplace/ Contact: Facebook.com/MIAandC king himself — Jim Morrison — at this origi- nal theatrical production directed by Dan Tin- events TUESDAY 9.10 gley that runs Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays for the rest of the month at PACA. Billed as a Preserving the Harvest “multi-media performance art stunt” featuring Harvest approaches, and times can go from lean “adult language and acts of random violence” be- to fat in just a few days — but as Poor Richard fitting Mr. Mojo Risin’ himself, you should prob- said, “Waste not, want not.” So join Judy Dauson ably leave the kids at home for this one. from Peace by Piece Farm at the Whole Foods When: Doors 7:30 p.m. Coop as she shares some ideas for preserving Where: 1505 State St. 508 State Street 18-20 North Park Row 814-453-7760 your crop long into the winter, because as Poor Contact: PACA1505.com 12 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com September 4, 2013 you decided to mix it all together until it became Joy, music by The Bangerzz, and refreshments "Spamalot" something completely different. Well, Jargo- courtesy of Gannon University and Erie Com- TUESDAY 9.17 The Erie Playhouse will open their 97th season nauts take a whole bunch of sonic ingredients — munity Foundation. with this Eric Idle-penned musical based on the like hip-hop beats, echoing guitars, and hypnotic When: 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Dramashop presents: “How I “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” film, so gal- percussion — and blend them into something Where: 634 E. 22nd St. Learned to Drive” Staged Reading lop on over to the theater to learn whether or quite innovative. Add in dark rockers Johnny Contact: [email protected] Paula Vogel’s “How I Learned to Drive,” as Dra- not a strange woman lying in a pond distributing James & the Absolutes and The Couchriders, mashop explains, is a “devastating and surpris- swords in a farcical aquatic ceremony is an ap- and you’ve got quite a musical meal waiting for Intersections of Equality ingly humorous tale of survival, grounded in the propriate basis for a system of government. Runs you at the crooked i. Symposium recognizable milestones of growing up.” Toss through September 29. When: 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Although this symposium won’t be held until in a troubling relationship between a young girl When:7:30 p.m. Where: 1013 State St. early November, today is the last day to RSVP! and an older man explored through the lens of Where: 13 W. Tenth St. Contact: facebook.com/thecrookedierie For more information, visit GreaterErieAl- learning how to drive and you’ve got one awe- Contact: 454.2852 liance.com, because as Poor Richard says, “Be- some night of contemporary theater. Vogel’s SUNDAY 9.15 ing ignorant is not so much a shame as being script won a Pulitzer Prize, and was a co-winner FRIDAY 9.13 unwilling to learn.” for the Susan Smith Blackburn Prize. Erie Irish Festival When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, November 2 When: 8 p.m. Bobby J’s & Alex’s 2 Act Birthday Top o’ the weekend to ya! If you enjoy partici- Where: Penn State Erie, the Behrend College Where: Renaissance Centre, 1001 State St. Blowout Extravaganza pating in ridiculous stereotypes of a noble and Contact: [email protected] Contact: Dramashop.org When Basement Transmissions holds a birthday ancient culture, get ready to don your fuzzy bonanza, there’s sure to be a whole bunch of green top-hat and drink your face off (again, bands for the blowout affair. Well, Bobby J and not in the “Silence of the Lambs” Buffalo Alex’s 2 Act Birthday Blowout Extravaganza Bill sense)! So bring your shillelagh and your will live up to the hype, with two different shows lucky four-leaf clover, because you just might and over 10 different acts throughout the night, find a pot of gold somewhere in Waldameer’s with both shows costing just $7 combined or $5 Rainbow Gardens. But be careful, for as Poor for the second over-21 show. Richard says, “Drink does not drown care, but When: First show 5:30 to 10:15 p.m., waters it, and makes it grow faster.” second show 10:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. When: 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Where: 1501 State St. Where: 220 Peninsula Drive Contact: basement-transmissions.webs.com Contact: 454.8085 x101 Poetry Park: An Afternoon of SATURDAY 9.14 Readings, Music, and Refreshments Help commemorate the dedication of a new Jargonauts with Johnny James & the “Little Free Library” with readings by visiting Absolutes and The Couchriders poets Sara Ries (Buffalo) and Don Wentworth Think of the Jargonauts as a musical stew. You (Pittsburgh), an open reading including chil- have plenty of fine bits and pieces left over, so dren from the neighborhood hosted by Chuck

September 4, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 13 To-do List By: Alex Bieler

“He uses certain sound effects within the strings and the percussion to give the allusion of waves, cannons in the distance, and the sounds of rolling thunder,” Weiser says of Wood’s original creation. UPCOMING EVENTS “I’m fascinated when a composer can do that, to start from scratch and create something like this.” While creating elaborately constructed compo- sitions may not all too easy for the average person – we’ll leave that for Weiser, Wood, and the rest of the classically-gifted folks at the Chamber Or- STONED AND BEAUTIFUL chestra – it doesn’t take a mathematical genius to figure out that talented musicians, local themes, SEPTEMBER 6 // FRIDAY @ 10:00 and zero cost make for one easy equation. The Erie Chamber Orchestra invites soloist David Kim to its Arts ‘N Drafts first concert of the season. even years ago, Drew Kauffman decided to stop complaining and start doing. Disen- BURNING RIVER RAMBLERS Erie Chamber Orchestra Opening chanted with the lack of events featuring Night Celebration local artists, he felt there was a need that he could SEPTEMBER 7 // SATURDAY @ 10:00 S help fill and soon Arts ‘N Drafts Fest was created. iven that school is back in session, it “My original thought behind this project was seems about right to administer the to create a minute period of time where we’re all first ever To-do List Pop Quiz. Still able to bring ourselves together whether we’re your moans and groans and tell me, if you had talented artists, musicians, or the community UNIVERSE SHARK Gan option between shilling out your hard-earned in general,” Kauffman says while sitting in the greenbacks to go experience a wonderful, locally- Brewerie at Union Station, the fixed location for themed event and spending absolutely nothing to the biannual three-day celebration, which is re- SEPTEMBER 12 // THURSDAY @ 10:00 go experience a wonderful, locally-themed event, turning for the 12th time Sept. 12-14. “It’s about which would you be inclined to pick? demonstrating what talent we have in the area Well, if you chose the latter of the two options, that people are oblivious to or just don’t have the then you have passed the To-do List Pop Quiz. opportunity to experience. It’s also a chance for See, it wasn’t so hard now, was it? I guess it’s time artists and musicians who have never put them- THE TRADESMEN to reward all of you culture-loving fans of the selves out there to put themselves out there.” free, so let me tell you about just an event that Arts ‘N Drafts won’t be lacking in participants, SEPTEMBER 13 // FRIDAY @ 10:00 should make the grade. with dozens of artists displaying their photogra- The Erie Chamber Orchestra will be kicking phy, acrylics, and assemblages for show and sale. off its 36th season of free music with the Open- Two stages will be set up – one in the tap room ing Night Celebration Friday, Sept. 13 at Mc- and the other outside by the tracks – for live Dowell Intermediate High School, bringing the music starting at 7 p.m. every night, with electro moving sounds of accomplished players in one magician onewayness, folkheads Sean Patrick JARGONAUTS relaxed setting. and the Newgrass Revolution, and Erie’s bearded WITH SPECIAL GUESTS JOHNNY JAMES AND “It allows you to hear music the same caliber ambassador of Americana Matt Texter leading THE ABSOLUTES AND THE COUCHRIDERS of almost any other major orchestra, but for zero the pack from Thursday to Saturday. cost,” Erie Chamber Orchestra Executive Direc- Of course, the artist displays and live music SEPTEMBER 14 // SATURDAY @ 10:00 tor Steve Weiser says. “We’ll give you that more only covers the first half of Arts ‘N Drafts, as the intimate experience where you’ll be so much Brewerie’s own craft beers will be readily avail- closer to the musicians and you’ll get to meet the able for those that wish to enjoy some local liquid soloist afterwards.” libations as well. That soloist he speaks of is David Kim, ac- “Throughout the course of the day you’ll see the complished violinist and concertmaster of the evolution of the patron,” Brewerie owner Chris BUBBA SPARXXX Philadelphia Orchestra, who will be dazzling the Sirianni says. “There are people who are here for denizens of the Little Theater with his command dinner and a beer and then stay here and enjoy SEPTEMBER 19 // THURSDAY @ 8:00 of the strings. In addition to Kim, Shannon the art, so I think it’s a perfect complement.” Wood, principal timpanist of the Grand Rapids Whether you’re at Arts ‘N Drafts for the art, Symphony, was commissioned to create an origi- the music, the beer, or all three, you can be sure nal work themed around the 200th anniversary of that you’ll be enjoying the talents of Erie in one the Battle of Lake Erie. place, and even the biggest grumblers won’t find “Generally when I write, it always comes across too much to complain about. as very symphonic in nature and then I layer the percussion or the solo instrument into what’s go- Alex Bieler can be contacted at aBieler@ TUE: Songwriter Showcase & Vinyl Night ing on, and there is a lot going on musically in ErieReader.com, and you the orchestra,” Wood says. His efforts resulted can follow him on Twitter SUN: Open Mic & Jam in “The Battle of Put-in-Bay,” an eight-section @Catch20Q. To follow this composition containing pieces such as “O.H. story or comment, scan the Perry” and “We have seen the enemy and they QR code or go to http://er- are ours.” irdr.com/xxxx 14 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com September 4, 2013 20th Annual

Saturday, September 7, 2013 WORLD-CLASS Featuring Grammy winner Al Petteway and MUSICIANS Amy White in concert. Plus more special music events Friday and Sunday! FINE GIFT VENDORS HIGHLAND

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September 4, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 15 To follow this story or comment, scan the QR MUSIC code or go to http://erirdr. REVIEWS com/7havo Nine Inch Nails Hesitation Marks Diarrhea Planet Columbia I’m Rich Beyond Your Wildest Dreams No Age Franz Ferdinand In some ways, 2013 has Infinity Cat Recordings An Object Right Thoughts, Right Words, Right Action Sub Pop Domino been: The Year of the Op- By the time that this sen- posite. Daft Punk did an tence has been read, there For those who haven’t lis- Sometimes it seems rather about-face, shifting from is a good chance that you tened to No Age before, “An odd that Scottish dance- machine-based creations might already be judg- Object” marks a suitable in- rock troupe Franz Ferdinand to focus on human-pro- ing Diarrhea Planet due to troduction to Dean Spunt has been around for a de- duced sounds, and Kanye the band’s, um, interest- and Randy Randall’s noisy cade, yet when your mind West opted for sparser beats with less produc- ing name. Yes, a name like dream-punk project. How- transports you back in time tion and fewer cameos – both resulting their Diarrhea Planet is bound to earn a few chuck- ever, if you’ve been listen- to the first time you heard “Take Me Out,” sud- most raw and potentially daring efforts yet. les here and some disapproving head shakes ing to the Southern California duo’s work over denly the difference in time is all too real. With Trent Reznor continues that trend, adopting a there, but where the moniker may be question- the past half decade, something seems off. “An many of their early- to mid-2000s counterparts minimalist approach to the production here. able, there’s no disputing that “I’m Rich Beyond Object” seems tired compared to the prior re- failing to live up to their early success, the Franz His relentless pursuit of sound construction Your Wildest Dreams” rocks hard. The Nashville, leases, with trademark sonic blasts being pared foursome still manage to make fun, danceable results in a remarkably clean, tight album – a Tenn. sextet employs four guitarists on their down to the point of the album sounding tunes in their fourth full-length album “Right work that balances lusciously thick swells with sophomore full-length album, and the string- fairly quiet and Spunt’s vocals seeming tired at Thoughts, Right Words, Right Action.” Lead simple yet driving beats, all while providing work certainly doesn’t disappoint, with plenty times. The all-out thrashing thrill ride of 2010’s track “Right Action” feels right at home in the ample room for Reznor to explore his trade- of anthemic solos peppering the 13 tracks. “Fever Dreaming” won’t be found here. Single Franz Ferdinand catalog, with a catchy gui- mark themes of disconnectedness. “All Time While songs like “Ugliest Son” go for the jugu- “C’mon, Stimmung” tries, but it never manages tar hook bouncing along to a marching beat, Low” captures Reznor’s blending of catchy lar, “I’m Rich Beyond Your Wildest Dreams” is at to be that go-to song for the noisy bliss that No one of many songs that will make you feel at hooks and beats with his introspection, as he its best on the more wistful tunes, with “Kids” Age can bring to the table. Of course, all of this home in a smoky club, regardless of any actual ponders, “Everything is not okay… we lost our- hitting a high when singer Jordan Smith bel- doesn’t mean “An Object” is a bad album by any dancing ability. The 10 tracks are by no means selves along the way,” over one of the album’s lowing “we’re just kids” over a deluge of guitars. means, just one that can’t quite measure up to groundbreaking or essential, but least Franz happier sounding songs. Reznor’s creating – There’s still room for the band to grow, but this the rest of No Age’s impressive catalog. - Alex Ferdinand is still making fun music instead of maybe with hesitation, maybe without; regard- album is rich with rewards. - Alex Bieler Bieler flat-out clunkers. - Alex Bieler less, the end result is beautiful. – Ben Speggen

16 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com September 4, 2013 the kids begged and begged me to dye it bright of his report to help me get Lara Croft safely purple. To be honest, they didn't really have to through to the next level that I had been stuck on beg me that much. in “Tomb Raider 2” for a few days. Safe to say, it Favorite outfit you nailed this summer? Ooh, was a late night of 'grading' his paper for me too. Street Fashionista that's tough. Probably during Blues and Jazz Fest Favorite thing about living in Millcreek. weekend. Missy found me a wonderful Cleopatra There’s a roller skating rink a block away, Wal- Jones ringer shirt. I love it – the color, the im- dameer is two blocks away, and Presque Isle is Garrett Skindell By: Leslie McAllister age, and the fit were all perfect, and perfect for four blocks away. I have great neighbors, and the jazzfest antics. I paired it with a khaki pair of neighborhood is packed full of children that are cargo shorts and sandals. my kids’ age. What do you bring away from teaching? Wow, Best place in Erie for pizza. Steve-Os at the PI there’s so much, I don’t know where to start. is currently at the top of my list. Generally speaking, as an eighth-grade teacher, I What is America's biggest fashion blun- get to see my students transition to being teenag- der and how can we fix it? Biggest blunder? ers. They start thinking about their future goals Hmmm... Got to go with 'sagging;’ with your and how they can reach them, how they can pants around your knees, it’s going to be difficult overcome obstacles as they prepare for the next to walk. Honestly, any fashion trend that requires phase of their lives and head off to high school. you to use one or both hands to hold your out- Watching them grow and mature from kids to fit together just to enable you to walk down the young adults over the course of a school year and street is a blunder on so many levels. helping them decide the directions their lives will How do we fix it? I wish I knew. Maybe we take is an incredibly rewarding thing to be a part need high profile artists like Jay Z and Beyonce of. I love the challenge they bring to the table. I to go full on Steve Urkel. Maybe bring back sus- know a lot of people that hate the drudgery of penders? How about belts with big bling buckles their jobs, in that sense; I guess I’m truly blessed. as the hot new accessory for this bold new mil- Worst reason you've been told in response to lennium? not having your assignment completed. HA! I had a kid once tell me he didn't do his homework Find me out on the town and challenge yourself to because he was up all night playing video games. get noticed by the Erie Reader! So as a consequence, I made him write a report on why the video game was more important than Leslie McAllister can be contacted at lMcAllis- the homework I assigned. He turned in a pretty [email protected], and lengthy and thorough report. He made a lot of you can follow her on Twit- very well thought out points about the problem ter @ShopJuJus. To follow solving logic and the various puzzles involved in this story or comment, scan advancing through to the next level. Little did the QR code or go to http:// he know, that later that night, I used the details erirdr.com/hazq7 Leslie McAllister Incredible teachers start here. hat started as a basic men’s our daughters. I got all broken up when I saw my undergarment launched into a girls in my old concert tees.” Charlene always knew she wanted to be a daily staple. Like a timid wall- With the timeless basic you can transform it teacher; but, it was Mercyhurst who inspired flower, the T-shirt broke free into a mini dress, a tunic, a sun dress, a muscle and flung itself collar first onto the dance floor. tank, a deep-v tank top, and a swimsuit cover- her to pursue her M.S. in Special Education, During the ‘40s, WWII vets would pair the look up – us girls have so many options. For guys, just a program that offers evening hours and W comparably low tuition. with their uniform pants. In the ‘50s, the look continue to look handsome and dashing in the went viral after Brando wore it in “A Streetcar look. You make the ladies swoon a la James and Landing a full-time graduate assistantship at Named Desire.” Of course we saw Jimmy Dean Marlon. a local elementary school, Charlene worked in take it to a whole other level in “Rebel Without Describe your style. I’m not sure I have a style a Cause.” How could we forget the white tee and per se. Beyond the 40-something rocker dad, I a Mercyhurst-supported classroom where she leather motorcycle jacket? have an extensive T-shirt collection that spans taught students with autism. the past 30 years, so I have that going in my favor. “My experiences in this program have been, in I have pretty simple tastes. I’m a pair of Chuck one word — incredible. After Mercyhurst, I’ll Honestly, any fashion trend that Taylors, T-shirt, and jeans kind of guy. be a better teacher because of the education If you could be a musical instrument which requires you to use one or both hands and opportunities I was given.” to hold your outfit together just to would you choose? Obviously as a Theremin player, I'd have to pick the Theremin; it’s science, enable you to walk down the street history, art, and music – electricity creating mag- Start your journey to is a blunder on so many levels. netic fields. It’s a rare and unique instrument. incredible teaching today! Pink or purple? Purple. Why? With three daughters, all under the age Enroll now. Visit mercyhurst.edu/graduate, Needless to say, the T-shirt took on its own of 8, anything pink gets used up pretty quick call 814-824-3384 or e-mail [email protected]. identity becoming a mainstay in the male ward- around our home. Plus the girls like to paint robe (and female). Guys are obsessed with them my toenails; they picked out the purple for me – like girls are obsessed with shoes. Concert tees, which reminds me, I need a fresh coat for back to vintage tees, novelty tees, conversation tees – they school; I got to let them know they have work to can’t get enough. Garrett Skindell told me of his do on these toes. Charlene Lichtinger ’12 & ’13 extensive collection. My mountain bike is purple. I’m a product M.S. in Special Education “My wife took all my beat up T-shirts, the ones of Prince's “Purple Reign” of the ‘80s. This past Concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis with holes, and turned them into sun dresses for summer, I got my usual summer mohawk, and September 4, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 17 MIAC Kicks off 2013-2014 Season

From marionettes to rising folk stars, Mercyhurst offers something for everyone

food is wholesome again

Frankie & May is home to Erie’s favorite butcher: Tom Hill. We’re serving only the freshest, all-natural, premium hand-selected meats available. At Frankie & May, we believe that quality ingredients are the foundation of every great meal. From super-fresh fish to locally grown farm produce — you’ll find it here for a fair price.

Stop by to shop or pick up a healthy, made-to-order lunch from our café and talk with Tom to make tonight’s dinner a special one.

Locaed under the clock in the Peninsula Plaza. Contributed Photo good for you, good for your community (Above) Compagnie Kafig comes to the MIAC Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014. peninsula plaza :: 1101 peninsula drive :: erie, pa 16505 :: ph. 814.836.0070 :: frankieandmay.com By: Rebecca Styn tor of MIAC. “In addition to what will be an hen one hears or reads about astounding performance, we have partnered with an art form that encompasses the expERIEnce Children’s Museum, and there “exceptional artistry, grace, and will be several activities happening before the refinement of movement” – event as well.” puppetry may not be the first thing that comes These activities Grady speaks of include move- toW mind. ment workshops, face painting, an art show by However, in the case of the internationally- Heather Cash, and music provided by Mercy- acclaimed Cashore Marionettes, one would find hurst University’s jazz radio station, WMCE. this to be a fitting discovery. And the show just Such partnerships are new to the MIAC. This happens to be kicking off the 2013-14 live season latest initiative pairs each live performance with at the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture, a local organization in recognition of the impact which runs from September through April. The they’ve made in the community. Some of the vignettes provide a sensitive, humorous, and en- organizations that the group is partnering with tertaining revelation of what it is to be human include: the Erie Asian Pacific American As- through manipulation, music, and theatrical illu- sociation, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, the Erie Art sion. Museum, and more. “I’m very excited to be bringing the Cashore “People can really expect something different,” Marionettes to Erie,” says Jamie Grady, direc- Grady adds. “Our community partners are help-

18 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com September 4, 2013 ing us broaden our reach. Plus, it gives them an opportunity to showcase their organization, so our lobby will always be alive with activities prior to the events.” These pre-show parties will include live lo- Killer Rabbits, Pigs Blood, and Old Owl Eyes Come to the Big Stage cal music, tastings, food and refreshments, art shows, and more – at no additional charge to the ticketholder. A Discussion with Erie Playhouse Executive Director Sue Lechner on the Upcoming Season “All of the time and energy we spent planning this season will show through the talented indi- viduals and groups we were able to secure,” says By: Alex Bieler cultures clash, and they can’t Christine Olivier, assistant director at MIAC. come together. The music is “The pre-show events are an added bonus. Our s one chapter ends, another begins. by the couple, [Lynn] Ahrens main aim this season is to let everyone know that And with “Legally Blonde: The and [Stephen] Flaherty, that our gates are always open and there is something Musical” soon coming to a close, so wrote “Ragtime,” so the score, for everyone to enjoy.” does the Erie Playhouse’s 2012-2013 again, is beautiful. It’s a beau- season. But don’t be too sad, as this means that tiful story. It’s been done a lot weA are less than a month away from a brand new around here. A lot of schools slate of musicals, plays, youth shows, and special have done it, but the Play- "All of the time and energy events. Erie Playhouse Marketing & Special house has not done it before, Events Director gave the Erie Reader a rundown so we’re really looking for- we spent planning this of the 2013-2014 season, from killer rabbits to ward to that. youth shows. “The Great Gatsby” season will show through “Spamalot” March 7, 8, 13-16, 19-23 the talented individuals Sept. 12-15, 18-22, 26-29 SL: It’s very timely, with the and groups we were able Sue Lechner: Monty Python’s “Spamalot” is movie, and there are a lot of to secure. The pre-show the quintessential fun musical with killer rabbits “Gatsby” fans. Actually, I will

and French people. Anybody that’s a true Monty be directing that, so I’m really Contributed Photo events are an added bonus." Python fan is going to come and is going to ex- looking forward to it. With pect to see Monty Python’s “Spamalot,” and they the book, the story’s there, Monty Python's "Spamalot" ushers in the will see all of that and more. Even anybody that the symbolism – all of that; so new season of hits at the Playhouse.

Contributed Photo While the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts isn’t a Monty Python fan will be entertained be- anybody that loves “The Great Center has previously been home to all mainstage yond belief because it’s a fabulous cast. One of Gatsby,” I think they should forward to seeing it, er group. “Freckleface Strawberry” is based on a performances, this year, the group has decided to the things that’s nice when you get such a big- because the play is very well-written, well-paced. book by Julianne Moore, the actress. She wrote expand its stage horizons. This coming October, name show, like last year when we did “Les Mis,” “Jesus Christ Superstar” the book and [it was] developed into a musical Indie-folk duo The Bengsons, will perform at the people really want to do it, so you get the cream June 5-8, 11-15, 19-22, 26-28 about a little girl who finds that she has freckles Erie Art Museum, and in March, the hot, young of the crop coming to try out, and “Spamalot” is and feels that her freckles aren’t appropriate and jazz-fusion band Snarky Puppy will be perform- no exception. SL: It’s one of our most popular shows. This has this message about how you can be who you ing at the crooked i. “Carrie: The Musical” could be the third or fourth time we’ve done it. are. Disney’s “Aladdin Jr.,” is a wonderful, de- “In addition to hosting this event at the Erie Oct. 11, 12, 17-20, 23-27 Again, it’s the quintessential rock musical, Jesus- lightful show for the little kids. [“A Little Prin- Art Museum, the group will stay in Erie to Bible-Hallelujah [show] that people love. We’re cess”] is a beautiful piece and good for all of the conduct a two-week residency of workshops SL: [It’s] Stephen King come to life on stage. really fortunate, because we were really able to little kids to see. Parents too. leading into the final performance at the Mu- The thing about “Carrie” is the music, the score… secure some great shows this season. “Bobby Borgia: Lights…Camera…Magic!” seum,” Grady says, speaking of the Bengsons. I was blown away, it’s so beautiful. I was just like, Mark Twain’s “Is He Dead?” April 4-6, 11-13 And no fear Yamato lovers, the popular musi- “Wow.” There are some teens in it because the di- July 11, 12, 17-20, 23-27 cal group of Japanese Taiko drummers, will be rector, Richard Davis, could have gone either way SL: He performed for us two or three seasons back again in November, this time celebrating with an older or younger [cast], but the kids that SL: It’s a funny, funny show. This last month we ago. It was all sleight of hand. There were cam- their 20th anniversary. are in that are just top drawer. You get the pig had two guys dressed in drag [for “Leading La- eras, big screens… it was very popular, so he’ll “We are trying to build a season that is more blood and everything, and it’s not super gory, but dies], and in this show Jean-Francois Millet wants be back to dazzle the audiences with his magic accessible to the greater Erie community. it is that time of year, and I think that anybody his paintings to be worth money, so he kills him- skills. While we recognize performance groups like that is a Stephen King fan or knows “Carrie” the self, supposedly, and he impersonates his sister so “Chess in Concert” – April 25 and 26 Yamato do so well here and we will continue movie will engage with this and I think it’s going that his paintings will go up in value. It’s a farce, so to bring them back, we are also trying different to play to our younger audiences. everything just rolls from there. It’s a play that we SL: It’s about this chess tournament, and art forms and entertainment to see what clicks. “Mary Poppins” read several times, because in the selection process, there’s this love triangle. Instead of doing the I’m very excited for this season – especially be- Dec. 5-8, 11-15, 19-22, 27-29, 31, 2013 and Jan. 3-5 Richard Davis, our producing director, sees what whole show, we’ll just be doing the concert, cause it is officially the first one that I have had titles are available and goes through plays and mu- so we’ll be presenting the songs and minimal a direct hand in choosing,” says Grady, adding SL: That is our holiday musical. We always sicals, and we read and listen and discuss it togeth- dialogue. There will be a full orchestra on stage jokingly, “it has the Jamie Grady stamp of ap- try to pick something that is going to appeal to er as a whole. “Is He Dead” was something that we and singers will be there, but again, another very proval.” the entire family. Mary Poppins will be flying talked about for years, but this year we said, “Yeah, dynamic score. In addition, the Institute will soon unveil its in with her umbrella. Bert will be tap dancing. let’s go for it,” and I think it’s going to be fun. fall film schedule and will also continue to offer We’re actually working with [magician] Bobby Mel Brooks’ “Young Frankenstein” There you have it, folks, eight mainstage “The Met: Live in HD,” a series of live simul- Borgia, who will be doing a show later on in the Aug. 8, 9, 14-17, 20-24 shows, three youth theater productions, and two casts from the Metropolitan Opera. year, and he will be doing the magic tricks for the special events in one jam-packed season. If you show. Usually over the holiday, we have a holi- SL: [Sings] “He was my boyfriend…” like killer rabbits, flying nannies, and rolls in the For a complete listing of the upcoming season, or to day show and then a New Year’s Eve concert, but What’s to say about “Young Frankenstein?” The hay, then this year will be a bigger blast than the purchase tickets, visit: miac.mercyhurst.edu. with “Mary Poppins,” that’s going to be our New movie is brought to life on the stage. Everybody Holy Hand Grenade of Antioch. Year’s Eve show. loves that, so come to see it and you will be enter- Rebecca Styn can be contacted at rStyn@ “Once On This Island” tained to no end. Naughty, racy, bad, whatever – we Alex Bieler can be contacted at aBieler@ ErieReader.com, and you Feb. 7, 8, 13-16, 19-23 have it covered, and we hold nothing back. ErieReader.com, and you can follow her on Twit- “Freckleface Strawberry” – Nov. 8-10, 15-17; Disney’s can follow him on Twitter ter @rStyn. To follow SL: It’s based on “The Little Mermaid.” It takes “Aladdin Jr.” – Jan. 17-19, 24-26; “A Little Princess” – @Catch20Q. To follow this this story or comment, place on an island, and Ti Moune, who lives on May 9-11, 16-18. story or comment, scan the scan the QR code or go to the poor side of the island, rescues the rich boy as QR code or go to http://er- http://erirdr.com/sizvn he’s drowning. The two fall in love, but the two SL: This year the shows are geared for a young- irdr.com/9kldi September 4, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 19 [Cont. from 11] Detroit, where his ship was com- scows – box-like barges – were placed alongside Blood dripped be- mandeered as a transport vessel. That fort, too, was her, and filled with water. When the Lawrence tween the seams of captured in mid-August, when Detroit's com- struck the bar, the camels were drained of water the deck onto the mander surrendered to a smaller British force out so that they would float and lift the brig. Her wounded in the ward- of fear of what reprisals their Indian allies might guns and two smaller anchors were removed, and room below. The ship's make if he resisted. Dobbins was captured again her anchor was dropped ahead of her and her lines were shot away, and was in danger of being executed for violating crew at the capstans pulled the ship to the anchor, leaving the Lawrence his parole, but he appealed to an old friend – John inch-by-inch. Twelve hours later, the Lawrence unable to maneuver, Nichol, a Scots-born Canadian trader who was passed the first sandbar. The next day, the process its hull riddled with now colonel of provincial militia – for a pass to was repeated for the second bar, and twenty-two shot. Nearly every gun Cleveland, which was promptly granted. hours later, on Aug. 3, the Lawrence had success- facing the enemy was Dobbins brought the news of the capture of fully passed it. disabled. Fort Mackinac and Detroit to Erie, where he The next day, on Aug. 4, the British arrived. Still, the Niagara was urged to bring the news to Washington. In The Lawrence was still being refitted after her hung back. Why September, after a two-week trip, he spoke to trip across the sand bars, and the Niagara was as was later a matter of President James Madison and his cabinet. There, good as a hundred miles away, just inside Presque heated dispute. Those the president asked him the best location to build Isle Bay. If the British fleet commander Robert that defended Jessie a fleet on Lake Erie, and Dobbins, obviously, an- Barclay had attacked then, he probably would Elliott, claimed both swered: Presque Isle. have destroyed the American fleet. But from his that there was not Over the course of the next six months, the vantage-point, it appeared as if both brigs were enough wind to bring settlement on Presque Isle Bay bustled with over the bars and ready for action, and Perry sent the ship into action activity. Its population nearly doubled with the out his schooners, the Ariel and Scorpion, to fire and that Perry's signal sudden influx of militia, boat builders, and the on the British, confirming the impression that flags were impossible workers needed to support them. Locals flocked the Americans were ready for battle. Barclay left, to read in the smoke to Erie to cut timber for the ships. Others fed the fearful of the larger American fleet. Disaster was of battle, leaving him troops, transported the iron and other material averted. unable to see his or- needed for the ships. And many worked furiously On Aug. 5, it was the Niagara's turn for the ders to close with the to build six ships to challenge the British. crossing. Perhaps having done it once already British. Certainly cowardice played It started with $2,000 in funds given to Dob- taught the men the best method in passing the no role in Elliott's decision to hang bins by President Madison, and four gunboats sand bars, or perhaps the water level rose, but it back; he had already proved him- being built at the mouth of Lee's run – near took only one day for the Lawrence's sister ship self in combat on the Niagara River where the present-day Myrtle Street ends. to exit the harbor. and on Lake Ontario, even receiving Later, the work would be expanded when the The Americans were on the lake. commendation from Congress on his regional naval commander, Isaac Chauncey, vis- bravery. ited Presque Isle and saw the work. He ordered head of the Lawrence, the Scorpion What's likely is that Elliott saw an two of the gunboats to be lengthened and hired and the Ariel closed with the enemy, inexperienced commander make a the New York City shipwright Noah Brown to too, as did the converted merchant- rash decision to close bow-on to the build two brigs at Erie. Brown hired some 200 men brig, the Caledonia, immedi- enemy and opted not to follow in workers, and the work on the brigs began at the ately behind Perry's flagship. But the Niagara did what he probably perceived as a mis- mouth of Cascade Creek. not.A Instead, she hung back out of the range of take. Perhaps Elliott thought he could Oliver Hazard Perry arrived on March 26, the British guns. As the Lawrence crept on, bow- preserve at least one of the fleet's 1813, to take control of the operation. Dobbins on towards the British line, the Detroit and the larger vessels for fighting another day. took charge of procurement – an awesome task, Queen Charlotte concentrated their fire on Perry, Or perhaps the ambitious officer saw given the remoteness of Erie and the amount of raking his flagship as it closed. in Perry's risky maneuver the chance supplies the brigs needed, the cannon, the shot, One of the better accounts of a sea battle of that the Lawrence would be lost and the iron fastenings for the ships, the lead for the the era comes from an English surgeon, Samuel his commander killed, and the fleet (Top) Erieite Daniel Dobbins ballast, as well as oil and paint and a myriad of Leech, who served on the HMS Macedonian his. secured Erie and Presque Isle as other supplies – all of which had to be hauled in during its losing battle with the USS United Whatever the reason, the Niagara stood mostly the building site for Perry's fleet. from Buffalo or Pittsburgh. Prices in the settle- States in October 1812. His experience no doubt unscathed just out of action while the Lawrence (Bottom) As Perry pushed onward ment started to skyrocket, with all the money mirrored that of the crew of the Lawrence. was battered to pieces. to battle with the British, Jesse brought to the area by the federal contracts and “A strange noise, such as I had never heard be- “Finding she could no longer annoy the en- the workers, and Dobbins had to impose price fore, next arrested my attention,” wrote Leech, emy,” wrote Perry later, “I left her in charge of Lt. Elliot remained behind, keeping controls and rationing. “it sounded like the tearing of sails, just over our Yarnall...[T]he wind springing up, Capt. Elliott the Niagara nearly unscathed But by the end of the summer of 1813, the heads. This I soon ascertained to be the wind of was enabled to bring his vessel the Niagara, gal- while the Lawrence drew the brunt ships were built, and together with some ships the enemy's shot.... lantly into close action. I immediately went on of the blows from the British. from Black Rock, near Buffalo, a small fleet was “The roaring of cannon could now be heard board of her.” assembled and ready to enter the lake. But one from all parts of our trembling ship, and, min- Perry turned over his flagship to his lieutenant major obstacle lied in their path: a sandbar sitting gling as it did with that of our foes, it made a and took his battle-flag and a few men to a cut- written note on the back of an envelope. It was at the mouth of the harbor. most hideous noise. By-and-by I heard the shot ter and rowed out to the Niagara – amidst shots addressed to General William Henry Harrison, Normally only six feet under water, the sand strike the sides of our ship; the whole scene grew from the British cannon targeting the American who was with his army in Ohio and anxiously bars were what made Presque Isle Bay a feasible indescribably confused and horrible; it was like commander – which he promptly comman- awaiting news of the battle. location to build the fleet. The British ships' draft some awfully tremendous thunder-storm, whose deered, sending Elliott to the lagging gunboats “We have met the enemy,” wrote Perry, “and was too deep to enter the harbor; if they tried, deafening roar is attended by incessant streaks to bring them into action. they are ours.” they would be stuck on the sand in the harbor of lightning, carrying death in every flash and Within minutes, the battle would be over. The mouth and vulnerable to capture or destruction. strewing the ground with the victims of its wrath: Niagara, taking advantage of the fresh breeze, he rest, as you might say, is history. But now the two brigs would have to cross that only, in our case, the scene was rendered more pierced the British line. The Queen Charlotte With Perry controlling the lake, sand to engage the British. The Lawrence and the horrible than that, by the presence of torrents of had her officers killed or wounded in the engage- General Harrison was able to march Niagara had been built with shallow drafts – only blood which dyed our decks....” ment with the Lawrence and had her rigging on Detroit without fear of having his 8 feet – for the very purpose of being able to get Perry was able to bring the British to within shot away, and she collided with the Detroit, supply lines cut off behind him. He recaptured them over the sandbars. But, now, at the begin- range of his carronades, and began to slug it out leaving both ships helpless. Two close-on broad- theT town and its fort, and drove the British and ning of August, thanks to wind pushing the Lake with the enemy at close range for nearly two sides from the Niagara compelled the ships to their Indian allies eastward before catching up Erie water westward, there was only four and a hours. surrender, and the battle was over. to them at the Thames River on the north shore half feet of water over the sand. The cost was high. Casualties mounted. By the As the cleanup, repair work, and tending of the of Lake Erie. Harrison won a short but decisive On the morning of Aug. 1, the Lawrence was end of the two hours of close fighting, 22 of the wounded carried on as usual in the aftermath battle there, his forces killing the Indian leader, the first to try to cross the sandbar. Two “camel” Lawrence's 103 crew were dead and 61 wounded. of a battle, Perry found time to scrawl a hastily Tecumseh. Americans had control of Lake Erie, 20 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com September 4, 2013 the Northwest frontier, and ended the threat cerned about the ship's future. He knows the of an unfriendly Indian confederacy blocking rie is Niagara's home,” said Wes- passion of the people of Erie for the Niagara, settlement. The West was open for American ley Heerssen, captain of the Ni- because they tell him. And, yes, while Tall Ships expansion, and William Henry Harrison was agara. “I don't think Erie would Erie is the culmination – the end – of our bicen- elected President in 1840. be Erie without the Niagara. tennial celebration, it should also serve as a kind Perry was awarded a Congressional medal for And Niagara certainly wouldn't be the same ship of beginning of a renewed commitment to the his actions during the battle, and he was finally “Ewithout Erie.” ideals and actions of the men that first built the given command of his frigate, the USS Java, be- Sunburnt, with a thick red beard and ponytail, Lake Erie fleet, and then sailed it to battle. We ing refitted in Baltimore. Heerssen had just finished a cruise on the Lakes, have a chance at greatness, and it begins – and In his battle report, Perry would write that Jesse and returned to Erie without his ship to help pre- continues – with the Niagara. Elliott “behaved with his customary gallantry,” pare for Tall Ships Erie 2013. but word got out from survivors about the Niag- “For all these ships that we've sailed around Jay Stevens can be contacted ara's inaction during the hottest part of the fight. with all summer long,” he said, “they've seen the at [email protected], and Elliott, never one to shy from a challenge to his Niagara. Now to get to see our home port, to see you can follow him on Twitter reputation, demanded stronger praise from Perry, our home facility, it makes me feel proud of what at @Snevets_Yaj. To follow which never came – a non-reply that kicked off we've accomplished here, and what we have to this story or comment, scan the a years-long feud between the two men. At one show for all of our hard work here.” QR code or go to http://erirdr. time, Elliott even challenged Perry to a duel. Heerssen referred to the Niagara's woodshop com/leyq8 Perry, for his part, later pressed the Navy for an and rigging shop, both located in the basement official court martial of Elliott, but was mollified of the Erie Maritime Museum. The museum it- by the promotion to Commodore and the assign- self is one of the finest of its kind in the nation, ment of a diplomatic mission to South America. and housed as it is in a former power plant, its While there, he contracted yellow fever and died basement is large enough to contain not only all soon after. He was 34. Elliott went on to serve a the spars and topmasts and sails during the off- long and distinguished career in the Navy, culmi- season, there's enough room for the equipment nating in his 1845 promotion to commandant of and workspace to work on maintenance projects the Philadelphia Navy Yard. during the winter, when rigging needs replacing, “If Perry had been hit and not made it to the block and tackle re-varnishing, lines seized and Niagara,” wrote Senior Captain of today's Ni- served. And rot removed and repaired. agara, Walter Rybka, in his book, The Lake Erie “Wooden ships in freshwater last only so long,” Campaign of 1813, of Perry's row across the lake said Heerssen. “For the last 25 years, we've been under fire, “his name might be only a small, sad able to maintain her in like-new condition. If footnote about a rash and inexperienced young a little bit of rot pops up, we cut it out, glue in commander who died in futility after abandon- a new piece of wood, replace it. The number of ing his men and fleeing his ship in defeat, while rot pockets we'll have to cut out and replace are clutching a banner proclaiming, 'Don't Give Up going to start growing and increasing in number the Ship!' In his place there would now be the every year, and it'll require more staff and more name of Elliott on all of the statues, in Elliott resources to keep it in good shape. Squares, in Elliotvilles and in Elliott counties all “The day is going to come, without a doubt, over Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York.” when she is going to need a significant refit.” Daniel Dobbins stayed in the Navy until the In that way, there's a little bit of danger in the mid-1820s. Later he'd direct area port improve- celebrations this summer, too. “The bicentennial ments, run a steamboat company, and became a of the Battle of Lake Erie is deserving of com- captain in the U.S. Revenue Cutter Service. No memoration – and we're going to do our best to friend of slavery, Dobbins assisted the Under- do justice to that responsibility,” said Heerssen, ground Railroad by helping escaped slaves find “but what happens in three or four years? When passage to Canada across Lake Erie. He died at the gloss wears off?” age 80 in 1856. Dobbins is buried with his wife Heerssen lives, breathes, and sleeps Niagara ev- in Erie Cemetery. ery day of every week. He's focused on the ship's The Niagara and Lawrence were taken out of survival. And the survival of the ship's mission. service after the war and sunk in Misery Bay. “Tall ships inspire people,” he said. “At the end of Later, the remains of what was believed to be the the day, a vessel is a tool. You're carrying some- Lawrence were recovered and sent to Philadel- thing on it, whether it's cargo or passengers. Our phia for the nation's centennial celebrations in cargo is inspiration. It's heritage preservation. 1876, but were lost to fire. The remains of the “As Walter [Rybka] likes to say, 'heritage pres- Niagara were recovered for the 1913 Centennial, ervation is attitude preservation.'” which were used as guidelines for the first re- In the end, though, Heerssen is not too con- construction of the brig. That first reconstructed Niagara was towed to Great Lakes ports by the USS steamship Wolverine that summer for cen- tennial celebrations of the Battle of Lake Erie. After its tour, it was berthed in Erie, and soon began to decay. Work on a second reconstruction began in the 1930s, whose hull was launched in 1943. In 1945, it was moved to dry land and re- mained there until 1988. It, too, decayed. The third and current reconstruction began in the 1980s, envisioned this time as a sailing ship, and its hull was launched for the 175th anniver- sary of the Battle of Lake Erie, on Sept. 10, 1988. By 1990, the brig was finished, and it made its maiden voyage in 1991 under the command of Walter Rybka. And now the Niagara is again at the center of an anniversary celebration. September 4, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 21 MIAC Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture

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