Erie’s only free, independent source May 1 - 14 / Vol. 3, No. 9 / ErieReader.com for news, culture, and entertainment E I R

E READER Chuck Scalise Erie Reader Downtown Debate Series The Boston Marathon Bombing The Spring Show Reviewed Free Comic Book Day Kopecky Family Band Chris Hardwick Theater In Process Music, Fashion, Tech

FREE 2 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com May 1, 2013 CONTENT May 1, 2013 CULTURE FEATURE 7 Art review The Erie Art Museum Spring Show 8 Editors-in-Chief: Dramashop 12 If We Were You... Brian Graham & Adam Welsh Theater in process Here’s what we would do Managing Editor: Ben Speggen 14 TO-DO LIST Contributing Editor: NEWS AND NOTES London Underground, Free Comic Book Cory Vaillancourt 4 UPFRONT Day Contributors: It's conduit time 16 Music Alex Bieler Brennan Donnelly 5 STREET CORNER SOAPBOX Reviews, Kopecky Family Band Q&A Pen Ealain The Boston Marathon bombings and justice 17 FASHION Matthew Flowers The Street Fashionista John Lindvay 6 THE WAY I SEE IT Leslie McAllister Outer Space edition 18 LGBT VOICES Rich McCarty Marriage Equality Jay Stevens TECH WATCH Rebecca Styn 6 Twitter hack moves the Stock Market 19 YOU OUGHT TO KNOW Bryan Toy Chuck Scalise Copy Editor: Alex Bieler Pictured on the the cover, clockwise Designer: from bottom left: Susan Baxter, Burim Loshaj Zach Flock, Jess Ciccone, Dom Cover Design: Del Greco, Shawn Clerkin, Bryan Burim Loshaj Rall. Photo by Jessica Yochim Photographer: Jessica Yochim Republican candidates Tom Loftus and Don Tucci. Both debate will Interns: From the Editors be held at the Jefferson Educational Anna Cipriani Society Monday, May 13, and both Samantha Myers re we living up to our city right, you get the county right,” future. Don’t want more condos? debates feature the opportunity for 32 W. Eighth St. #500 potential of what Erie Tamulonis said. Attend. Want more condos? Attend. you -- our Reader readers -- to ask Erie PA, 16501 could be? And now is the time we need to Think we need intelligent, mixed- the candidates questions via social [email protected] It’s a simple enough get it right, as we hold the key to un- use property on our Bayfront? At- media. question. And we asked a similar one locking Erie’s potential for decades tend. Want another Applebee’s? Again, our future is at stake -- our The Erie Reader is Erie’s only free , inA our last issue. to come. And to plan the Bayfront, Attend. Want more local businesses immediate future, as the results of independent source for news, culture, and In our last issue, we discussed a the city, the county, and the region, to... you get the point: Attend. these elections will determine who’s entertainment. The Erie Reader is a forum presentation at the Blasco Library it takes -- as we wrote two issues ago Our future is at stake -- our vying for the position of managing for ideas and discussion, and seeks to drive regarding the city’s waterfront prop- -- an “us” and a “we,” not a “you” or a long-term future. The plan created our county for the next four years. two-way communication with its readers. At erty. Destination Erie: A Regional “me,” as we’re all keyholders. through this process is designed to And during those four years, the the Erie Reader, we endeavor to highlight the Vision brought in Eric Tamulonis -- That being said, we residents now meet the economic, social, and en- plans for Destination Erie will see best of Erie by providing in-depth, magazine- one of the principals from WRT, a have the opportunity to ensure our vironmental challenges of the 21st fruition and impending implemen- style journalism that cuts to the heart of the national collaborative practice of city voices are heard. Tuesday, May 7 and century, as Destination Erie enters tation. That is, our long-term future. issues that matter to Erie. The Erie Reader and regional planners, urban design- Wednesday, May 8, Destination Erie Phase 2: “Shipbuilding.” Erie, from our waterfront to our is published every other week at The Corry ers, landscape architects, and archi- is hosting four -- count ‘em -- public And as we begin our shipbuilding, city to our county to our region, we Journal, 28 W. South St., Corry, Pa. 16407. The tects headquartered in Philadelphia workshops free and open to all. we need intelligent, capable people are needed now more than ever. At Erie Reader is distributed at over 250 high and currently working with Desti- On Tuesday, the first workshop at the helm to steer us through our the Erie Reader, we have great hope foot-traffic locations in Pennsylvania from North East to Girard to Edinboro. The Erie nation Erie -- to speak to a packed will be held at St. John’s Parish Cen- immediate future. Enter the Erie for the Gem City’s future, which is Reader is also available by mail subscription; auditorium Tuesday, April 23. ter in Girard from 9 to 11 a.m. Later Reader Downtown Debate Series. why we’ve continued to be as active one year (26 issues) for $49.99. Send check or Tamulonis, a landscape architect, that day, a second workshop is slated After a strong start in 2012 -- see as possible in all things Destination money order payable to Flagship Multimedia, discussed Erie’s potential based from 7 to 9 p.m. at Fort LeBoeuf this issue’s Upfront for a more de- Erie as well as local politics. We’ll be Inc., to the address below. In addition to on its waterfront, illustrating 10 High School in Waterford. tailed history -- we’re continuing to at the upcoming meetings, and we’re appearing in print, Erie Reader adds new principles to follow in getting the Wednesday’s first workshop -- provide the community with debates proud to bring you the Erie Reader content daily at www.ErieReader.com as Bayfront “right” for people to “live, from 9 to 11 a.m. -- will take place at in front of a live audience that are 2013 Downtown Debate Series once well social media sites. All rights reserved. work, and play.” If you weren’t able to Fairfield Social Hall in Harborcreek. also televised. This time around, again. We ask now that you, our All content © Flagship Multimedia, Inc, 32 W. attend and want to see all 10 of those The final workshop rounds out the we’re focusing on the Erie County Readership, join us in the building Eighth St., Suite 500, Erie, Pa, 16501. No part principles, check our Twitter feed, as series at the Avalon Hotel in Erie Executive race, featuring debates of the ship that will set sail, charted of this publication may be reproduced without we were there, livetweeting the event from 7 to 9 p.m. between former U.S. congress- for our future. Because if you’re not permission. Direct inquiries to 814.314.9364 with #YouHaveTheKey. Two morning sessions, two eve- woman and Democratic challenger on board, you can’t chart our desti- or [email protected]. “If you get the Bayfront right, ning sessions, four locations, and one Kathy Dahlkemper and democratic nation from dry land, as the rest of you get the city right; if you get the big reason not to miss these: Erie’s incumbent Barry Grossman, and us sail onward. May 1, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 3 study the "reach and dispersion" of human "vom- itus," especially its aerosolizing. Working with nauseous patients would be impractical, and thus, UPFRONT News researcher Catherine Makison created "Vomiting It's Conduit Time! Larry," a puke-hurling robot with a range of al- most 10 feet. (According to a University of Cam- bridge researcher, one can be infected by fewer By: Cory Vaillancourt of the than 20 norovirus particles, each droplet of puke can contain 2 million particles, and the virus re- mains active on hard surfaces for 12 hours.) egun during the 2012 Pennsylvania Prima- Weird esearch published in February by Britain's ry Election, the Erie Royal Society science association found that Reader Downtown By: Chuck Shepherd Rmale guppies in mating mode prefer to congre- Debate Series – so named be- gate with plainer, less colorful males, probably Bcause the first two debates were for an obvious reason: to look better by com- held at the Masonic Temple in parison. Said Italian researcher Clelia Gasparini, downtown Erie – was intended "You want to impress (a female potential mate)." to further the Erie Reader’s Smarty Pants Would you "look more attractive in comparison mission of serving as a two-way he Precocious Tots of Finland: A University with (the dowdy, awkward comic star) Mr. Bean conduit for conversation in this of Kansas professor and two co-authors, in or George Clooney?" community. researchT in a forthcoming issue of the Journal of In the first-ever Downtown Finance, found that children age 10 and under ottentot golden moles reside underground, Debate in April 2012, both substantially outperformed their parents in earn- which is not so oppressive because they're Jason Owen and Regina Smith ings from stock trading in the few days before Hblind and navigate by smell and touch. Nonethe- looked great, but Owen pre- and after rumors swirled on possible corporate less, some scientists spend years studying them, vailed in the Republican pri- mergers. A likely explanation, they said, is that and in a recent issue of Mammalian Biology, mary election in State House the parents or guardians were buying and selling South African researchers disclosed that females District 3. In the second debate for their children's accounts using illegal insider choose mates largely by penis size. While some – also in April 2012 – Sean information that they were cautious about using human females also favor this particular "pre- Wiley easily outpaced a crowd- in their personal accounts, which would more eas- copulatory mechanism," the scientists hypoth- ed field consisting of John Har- ily arouse suspicion. While the parents' accounts esized that the moles' reliance on touch leaves kins, Brian Pitzer, and Terry had nice returns, the kids' accounts (including them with no alternative. Scutella and ended up winning those held by the very recently born) were almost the Democratic primary elec- 50 percent more profitable. (The study, reported remium Health Care for Lovable Animals: tion in State Senate District 49. by NPR in April, covered 15 years of trades in While some Americans cannot get medically In the third debate – held Finland, chosen because that country collects age Pnecessary health care, a few lucky animals every this time at the Jefferson Edu- data that the U.S. and other countries do not.) year receive exactly what they need from wildlife cational Society in October of [NPR, 4-9-2013] conservation centers. Most recently, in March, a

2012 – Owen looked far more Fensterbme sandhill crane received deluxe surgery by a facil- polished than Democratic The Entrepreneurial Spirit! ity in Abbotsford, British Columbia, after having candidate Ryan Bizzarro, who ultimately won a can’t make it. elicate Marketing Required: (1) A fluo- his leg shattered on a golf course. Doctors tried hard-fought race to replace John Hornaman in Similar to the four previous debates, candidate ride-free chocolate toothpaste "proven" to several surgeries, then amputated the leg, and the house. As soon as that debate ended, Wiley order will be determined by random draw on the Dstrengthen teeth and regenerate enamel is now have fitted the crane with a prosthesis that al- trounced Republican challenger Janet Anderson night of the event. Each candidate will make a on sale in limited markets in the U.S. Theodent lows balance-preserving mobility. (In February, – a prequel to the trouncing he would deliver 3-minute opening statement and a 3-minute (active ingredient: "rennou") is also available in Suma Aqualife Park near Kobe, Japan, fitted a on Election Day – in the now-legendary fourth closing statement. Sandwiched in between their mint flavor, said its New Orleans-based inventor, 190-pound loggerhead turtle with rubber fins Downtown Debate. campaign stumpery will be eight questions – four Dr. Tetsuo Nakamoto. (2) One of the 12 Cana- kept in place by a vest -- to replace fins damaged Our fifth and sixth debates, which focus on the per candidate – asked by our fine panel of panel- dian foods chosen to accompany the country's in what doctors guessed was a shark attack.) Erie County Executive race, will take place on ists. The person to whom the question is asked International Space Station astronaut in De- Monday, May 13, at the Jefferson Educational will have two minutes for a response; the other cember is the limited-issue dry cereal especially he Dark Side: Even though human hearts Society, which means I just announced the Erie candidate will have two minutes for a rebuttal, noted for its fiber, organic buckwheat and various open warmly to helpless animals, kindness Reader 2013 Downtown Debate Series, in what making for a nice, fair robust debate on the issues nontraditional ingredients. "Holy Crap" cereal isT not universal. As Clemson University animal has become something of a tradition here on facing our county. is available throughout Canada and in 19 other conservation student Nathan Weaver found with page 4. Will these debates become the stuff of The best part? Once again, in each debate, two countries. a quick experiment late last year, some drivers legend too? of those questions will come from you – the will deliberately swerve into a turtle trying to They certainly have all the makings. Again people these fine folks seek to represent. In the ven to Icelanders accustomed to harsh cross a busy road -- seven drivers, he found, in sponsored by our friends at Epic Web Studios, days leading up to the debate, we’ll blitz both our weather and isolation," reported The New the space of one hour (though most drivers eas- the Jefferson Educational Society, and Lilly Facebook and Twitter accounts, asking for ques- "EYork Times in March, the city of Grimsstadir "is ily avoided the realistic rubber model). (In the Broadcasting, these debates are free and open to tions from anyone who cares to leave them. a particularly desolate spot." Nonetheless, Chi- 1979 movie "The Great Santini," an overbearing the public. So be sure to mark your calendars for Monday, nese billionaire land developer Huang Nubo has fighter-pilot-husband who squishes turtles while At 7 p.m., Democratic challenger and former May 13; we’re proud to continue presenting this announced he intends to build a luxury hotel and driving late at night tells his wife, "It's my only Congresswoman Kathy Dahlkemper will face important service to the voters of Northwestern golf course in the area for his countrymen seek- sport when I'm traveling, my only hobby.") [As- off with incumbent Democratic Erie County Pennsylvania, and with your help and support, ing "clean air and solitude." Since snowfalls often sociated Press via Yahoo News, 12-27-2012] Executive Barry Grossman; at 8 p.m., it’ll be Re- we’ll be able to continue to serve as that two-way run from September until May, locals are skepti- publicans Tom Loftus and Don Tucci who take conduit for conversation in this community long cal of Huang's motives, but he continues to press Leading Economic Indicators to the stage. The winners of these two primary into the future. for a long-term lease covering about 100 square ealthy Russians have recently found a way elections will face each other in the November miles for a project estimated to eventually cost around the country's horrid traffic jams: General Election. Cory Vaillancourt is a brilliant writer/complete hack and about $100 million. fakeW ambulances, outfitted with plush interiors The panelists for both debates will be JES can be complimented/heckled at for relaxation while specially trained drivers Associate Program Director Sara Breese, Lilly [email protected]. Frontiers of Science use unauthorized lights and sirens to maneu- Broadcasting’s Amanda Post, and Erie Reader Find him on Twitter @VLN- ince gastrointestinal noroviruses are so infec- ver through cluttered streets. London's Daily Managing Editor Ben Speggen; the debates CRT. To follow this story or com- tious and can be fatal in countries with mar- Telegraph reported in March that "ambulance" will be moderated by Lilly Broadcasting’s Kevin ment, scan the QR code or go to Sginal hygiene, scientists at the U.K. government's companies charge the equivalent of about $200 MacDowell and will be televised for those who http://erirdr.com/ceyyh Health and Safety Lab in Derbyshire needed to an hour for these taxis. 4 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com May 1, 2013 Electric Chastity Belt o counter the now-well-publicized culture Street Corner of rape in India, three engineers in Chennai saidT in March that they are about to send to the market women's anti-rape lingerie, which will provide both a stun-gun-sized blast of electric- Soapbox ity against an aggressor and a messaging system sending GPS location to family members and The Boston Marathon Bombing and Justice the police about an attack in progress. After the wearer engages a switch, anyone touching the By: Jay Stevens fitted garment will, said one developer, get "the shock of his life" (even though the garment's skin side would be insulated). The only market- ithin hours after one of the ing holdup, according to a March report in The Boston Marathon bombers was Indian Express, is finding a washable fabric. [The dead and the other in custody, Indian Express arguments began over what it all meant and how we should react. Compelling Explanations WSouth Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham, for n March, Washington state Rep. Ed Orcutt, one, pushed for wounded 19-year-old bomber, apparently upset that bicyclists use the state's Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, to be designated an “enemy Iroads without paying the state gasoline tax for combatant” – essentially stripping him of most of highway maintenance, proposed a 5 percent tax his Constitutional rights, such as the right to a on bicycles that cost more than $500, pointing speedy trial --and to “interrogate” him for infor- out that bicyclists impose environmental costs as mation for other possible attacks. “That should well. Since carbon dioxide is a major greenhouse be our focus,” said the Senator, “not a future gas, he wrote one constituent (and reported in domestic criminal trial that make take years to the Huffington Post in March), bike riders' "in- complete.” creased heart rate and respiration" over car driv- That, of course, is the wrong thing to do. ers creates additional pollution. (Days later, he As of the time I'm writing this, there is abso- apologized for the suggestion that bicyclists ac- lutely no link from the Tsarnaev brothers to any tually were worse for the environment than cars.) terrorist organization. There appears to be no po-

Ironies o, For a While There, It Actually Worked: The maker of the "all-natural herbal extract" Su- Let's see the

Sper Power (which promises "powerful erections") Gobetz Wally issued a voluntary recall in January after "inde- evidence against the pendent" lab tests revealed that the supplement mistakenly contained a small amount of sildena- teen bomber. Let's Beck, and Alex Jones. stood by while the government kidnapped and fil, the active ingredient in Viagra. Such unregu- And even if the Tsarnaev brothers were a sleeper tortured in our name. And President Obama has lated dietary supplements cannot legally contain cell for al Qaeda, we shouldn't implement Bush- continued those policies, even started an assas- drugs without Food and Drug Administration hear the testimony era anti-terrorist powers and deny Dzhokhar sination program of suspect U.S. citizens. And we approval. (Also, in March, the Federal Trade Tsarnaev a trial, or his rights as a criminal defen- let this happen. Commission ordered three retailers, including against him. Let's dant. That's because indefinite detention and “in- We succumbed to fear. We live in a world of Neiman Marcus, to re-label some fake-fur gar- terrogation” – or “torture” in layman's terms – is fear. ments because they, mistakenly or intentionally, air his crimes for unethical and ineffective in combating terrorism. If you're under 30, you probably don't even contained real fur.) The interrogation of Guantanamo detainees remember what it was like before the Depart- overall has been a bust. Some of the disinforma- ment of Homeland Security, before the TSA was Boston Herald reporter said in March that the world to see, tion that led to the Iraq War, for example, was crawling all over our airports. he had been kicked out of a State Ethics obtained by torturing “enemy combatants” picked In this context – in a society where the govern- CommissionA training session (which might not and let's hear him up in Afghanistan. Information gleaned from co- ment and media continually feed us images of a be unreasonable, as the meeting was for Massa- ercion is too often unreliable or inaccurate. After terrorist attack that happened over a decade ago, chusetts House members only). However, at least mount a defense all, someone being waterboarded or having The stoking our fear of terrorism to justify the blood two people in attendance refused to give their Carpenters blared at them for 48 straight hours and money expenditures of perpetual war and a real names to the reporter as they left. Rep. Tim will tell you anything to make it stop. strong police presence – in this context, the Bos- Toomey insisted he was not a member (though for his actions. For another, using authoritarian techniques – ton Marathon bombing felt almost like a bizarro he is) but was "just passing through," and Com- suspending habeas corpus and other basic rights, celebration, a renewal of loathing and fear, with mission chairman Charles Swartwood III (a for- Let’s let him have say – only encourages more anti-U.S. extremism. new, horrific images to fret over, and even a day mer federal judge magistrate) refused to give his Acting like a big bully only makes people want to off of work for the city of Boston, whose people name at all, telling the reporter, "I'm not saying his day in court. fight you. I mean, we all saw “Red Dawn,” right? stayed home to contemplate a crazed teenage because that's a private matter." Let's have the trial of Dzhokhar Tsarnaev out bomber running amok in their streets. in the open, for everyone to see. Let's see the It doesn't have to be this way. We could recog- spiring rap music bigshot Bernard Bey, 32, litical motive for the attacks other than a vague evidence against the teen bomber. Let's hear the nize our world contains danger that no amount filed a $200,000 lawsuit in February in New hostility to the United States and no political testimony against him. Let's air his crimes for the of police can keep away. We could let constitu- YorkA City against his parents, alleging that they goal for the attacks. If anything, judging by the world to see, and let's hear him mount a defense tional law work to bring justice. We can preserve owe him because they have been unloving and glimpses we've had into the mind of Tamerlan for his actions. Let’s let him have his day in court. the rights so many have given their lives for. We "indifferent" to his homelessness and refuse even Tsarnaev – from social media and the reports In no small way, that would represent a real and could live in a new era of renewed liberty, and to take him back in to get a shower. Bey, who raps from friends – it looks like the bombing was the positive change from how we as a nation pursued reject fear. as "Brooklyn Streets," said everything would be result of the isolation of a young refugee who, and fought terrorism since Sept. 11, 2001. forgiven if they would just buy him two Domino's instead of adapting to the country, grew to resent After al Qaeda destroyed the World Trade Jay Stevens can be contacted Pizza franchises so that he could eventually earn and eventually hate it, and found expression for Center, we allowed the government to seize at [email protected], and enough to become "a force to be reckoned with his hatred in extremist Islamic YouTube videos. unprecedented police powers. We followed the you can follow him on Twit- in the hip-hop industry." (His mother's solution, In that way, Tamerlan Tsarnaev resembles Rich- Bush administration to unjust, unneeded, and ter @Snevets_Yaj. To follow this as told to a New York Daily News reporter: "[G] ard Poplawski, the Pittsburgh cop killer whose expensive war – and 12 years and $6 trillion later, story or comment, scan the QR code or o get a job. He's never had job a day in his life.") fatal paranoia was fed by Stormfront, Glenn we're still at war. We let the NSA spy on us, we go to http://erirdr.com/ohp3o May 1, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 5 The Way I See It TECH WATCH Outer Space Edition Twitter Hack Moves the Stock Market

By: Rebecca Styn By: Brennan Donnelly, Epic WebStudios

hile I generally try to Earth is sadly looking less special guage? Are they anticipating other or those of you who think so- over 3,000 times as the story went focus on issues that every minute. Perhaps we should start outgoing folks that only speak English cial media is just a bunch of viral. directly impact our taking care of it better – or look to live to be currently residing in outer space? noise – you’re kind of right. And the impact of this news is what community, I’d like to elsewhere. Or is this just to keep all outgoing Certainly there are many is notable. The Dow Jones industrial talk about a few things that are a little folks chatting in the same tongue? more people leveraging these net- average dropped nearly 150 points in more,W well, out of this world – which, The team – comprised of young, Fworks for unnecessary personal atten- seconds after the report. Thankfully, in essence, could directly impact (not Life on Mars! in-shape, outgoing, English-speaking tion and more photos of cats than any it recovered just as quickly when the meteor-ally of course) any one of you. peaking of… what if I told you in folks – will be trained for seven years one person ever needs to see. But, you report was announced to be hoax. So I present to you: TWISI: In Outer less than 10 years you could actu- before the flight, and various parts must respect that this noise has power, AP went into recovery mode and Space! Sally be living on another planet? No of the mission will be streamed on influence, and cannot be ignored. immediately suspended its account lie. A Dutch company called Mars the Internet to be seen by upwards Whether being used for greater good once the compromise was recognized Spaced Out One began looking this past week of 4 million viewers. And there is of or evil (or annoyance), social media and also released messages to all fol- ne of NASA's satellites – the Ke- for volunteer astronauts to fly to course an application fee (not listed), holds the potential to spread news lowers via associated accounts (@ pler satellite – is keeping an eye Mars. This open call, announced by but admission, err, application fees faster than any other media channel. APEntertainment, @APCorpComm, Oon more than 150,000 stars in hopes the company’s CEO Bas Lansdorp – will go towards the estimated $6 bil- Tuesday, April 23, 2013 was a prime etc.) notifying followers that the tweet of identifying Earth-like planets that whose name in my opinion sounds a lion required to fund the mission. Yep, example of this power. The Twitter ac- was bogus. could be habitable. bit alien-like and perfect for such an $6 billion. count of the Associated Press – one of The mishap did not go unnoticed And recently, they discovered a trio As for when you would return to the most credible and widely accessed and provided an opportunity to tee up, of them. Earth? Well… never. new sources was compromised when with many comics and users having The planets, currently labeled as Ke- The team – comprised of While they can get you there, there a go at the unfortunate event, tweet- pler-62e, Kepler-62f, and Kepler-69c, young, in-shape, outgoing, currently is no technology that would Avid followers of the ing out things such as “Did you hack don’t sound too special by name, but English-speaking folks – will enable a return trip home, so there’ll account were suspicious due AP? AP would like to talk to you for there’s more than meets the eye here. be no turning the boat around once to inconsistencies in the a story.” Literally. be trained for seven years the ship sets sail. Sorry, Dorothy and So how did this happen? Comparatively speaking, our vast before the flight, and various Toto – your mission is accomplished formatting of the rogue tweet. It is likely the login information was world – the third largest planet in the parts of the mission will be and Kansas shall be but a distant recently acquired through a phishing solar system – is tiny in comparison. streamed on the Internet memory. hackers released a tweet at 1:07 p.m. scheme. The web recently experienced All three planets range from 40 to 70 So, Erie denizens, if that whole brain that read: a surge of stolen data through phish- percent larger than the Earth, and if to be seen by upwards gain thing just isn’t for you, or you’re "Breaking: Two Explosions in the ing attacks in connection to videos you were standing on one of them, a of 4 million viewers. tired of corrupt officials ruining school White House and Barack Obama is of the attack in Boston and the Texas star in the sky would look bigger than districts, or don’t want to worry about injured.” fertilizer plant explosion. Phishers our sun does. endeavor – stated that in 2022, volun- our tiring economy and the ultimate Avid followers of the account were sent out links to actual disaster videos I know what you’re probably won- teers would be shuttled off to the red loss of one of our biggest manufactur- suspicious due to inconsistencies in in millions of email messages. Click- dering, but the goal of this mission planet, and would land seven months ers, or don't care what happens to our the formatting of the rogue tweet – ing on one of these links displayed the wasn't to find alien life forms. And later. beloved Bayfront… thanks, Stylebooks! – as skeptical video to the recipient, but also infected it would also take a different mission Naturally, there are a few require- Mars awaits you. journalists and newshounds pointed the computing device. to investigate the atmosphere of one ments. out that the Associated Press style It is unclear as to the motive behind of these distance planets to find out First, applicants must be between Love? Hate? Agree? Disagree? I want to hear never refers to "Barack Obama," it the tweet – whether to get a laugh, whether there’s carbon dioxide, water, 18-40 years of age and in good physi- from you, and you can contact me at rStyn@ is always "President Barack Obama." embarrass the AP, or game the stock and oxygen within their atmosphere. cal condition. I realize the next stipu- ErieReader.com and The service also normally capitalizes market. But credit is being taken by a But it’s a start. lation is going to come as a shock – follow me on Twit- the entire word "BREAKING" when group of Syrian hackers who tweeted: And in the midst of all the chaos and but you must have good survival skills. ter @rStyn. To follow breaking news is announced. "Ops! @AP get owned by Syrian destruction us earthly creatures are ex- Interesting to me, however, is the this story or com- Regardless though, this tweet was Electronic Army! #SEA #Syria #Bye- periencing here, scientists might have group is also requesting applicants ment, scan the QR not taken lightly. The AP account has ByeObama." a good thing going with these discov- have “good people skills” and a “rea- code or go to http:// over 1.9 million followers, and within While I would first and foremost like eries. In light of all of these findings, sonable grasp” of the English lan- erirdr.com/yze83 seconds the message was retweeted to give thanks that no one was harmed and that the Dow market recovered upon the correction, I want to reiterate the power of social media. Consider JUST TOYIN’ WITCHA By: B. Toy for a second that one tweet – just one message comprised of 140 characters or less – sent out by one account made a 100-plus point impact on the Dow Jones index. Remember, while you may consider social media just noise, you may want to pay more respect to just how powerful that noise can be because of just how many people are listening.

Brennan Donnelly can be contacted at Epic@ ErieReader.com. To follow this story or comment, scan the QR code or go to http:// erirdr.com/1tyej 6 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com May 1, 2013 ART REVIEW: the spring show Erie Art Museum unveils 90th annual exhibit

infinitesimal detail with lyrical precision. There By: Pen Ealain is a reason this painting won the NPAA award, which is voted on by an elite group of Erie’s finest cceptance into The Erie Art Museum artists. Spring Show has, for 90 years, been Rachel Burke also has a canvas that dominates the be-all and end-all realization of a wall with layers of texture, grid-lines, and slash- artistic achievement for any artist ing brushwork that only resolves itself into an who takes him or herself seriously in the Erie industrial landscape when viewed unobstructed P. Ealain P. region.A from across the room. Another large work fires Did you get into The Spring Show this year? you the imagination in a way that reflects the huge The 90th annual Spring Show, juried by Alexis Rockman, hear asked wherever artists gather. The responses narrative paintings of Rockman: a tightly ren- is now on display at the Erie Art Museum. vary from delighted affirmations of, Yes, I have a dered graphite fantasy drawing of translucent large painting hanging just inside the first room, to dogs bursting into a room where a stag rears. dejected sighs of, No, not this time, to the often- Western New York artist Elizabeth Gemperlin foremost visual art showcase. That does not ap- the show. Maybe next year, all these forces will heard, I’ve tried so many times that I’ve just given leaves the viewer wondering where reality ends pear to be the case this year. align to give Erie a Spring Show that again will up... Well, maybe I’ll get something ready for next and fantasy begins and juxtaposes the structure This is, however, a necessary risk the organizers showcase the best that Erie’s artists have to offer. year. You never know. of a manmade interior structure with the chaos of this unique show take every time the show is To sculptors, painters, and craftsmen within of nature overtaking the space. juried. A guest juror of national or international The Erie Art Museum is located at 411 State St., 250 miles of Erie, being in the Spring Show is On the smaller side, but nevertheless just as significance is always called upon to select a small Erie, Pa., but the entrance is just around the cor- equivalent to playing in the major leagues or per- intriguing, is one of this show’s underrepresented number of works from hundreds of the best of ner on East Fifth Street. Museum Hours: Tuesday forming on Broadway. It is confirmation that you three-dimensional pieces. Newcomer Corrine our region. to Thursdays 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. to have arrived – that you are a true professional and Ford is a college senior who was practically bust- Sometimes that juror gives it their all. The juror 9 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 that you have been recognized as such. ing with pride after winning a Juror’s Award uses knowledge, skill and wisdom acquired from to 5 p.m. Everything beyond the Spring Show is just ic- for her soft sculpture, “David.” With a rib-cage years in the vanguard of the art world to give due ing on the cake. aluminum frame encasing viscera made of fabric justice to other skilled artists. Pen Ealain can be contacted Needless to say, everyone involved in this show and stuffed like a teddy bear, she explores con- But it is not a perfect process. Vanity, distrac- at PenEalain@ErieReader. approaches it with considerable seriousness. To trasting ideas of hard/soft and repulsive/snuggly. tions, fatigue, hidden agendas, even the envi- com. To follow this story or the staff of the Art Museum, it is the centerpiece A sculpture using such traditional craft materials ronment in the room where the jurying process comment, scan the QR code or of an ambitious year of performances, art shows, to express such ideas is an exploration in contrast takes place, can all effect what a juror picks for go to http://erirdr.com/1lfai movies, and educational programs. For Edinboro itself. University of Pennsylvania, it is a chance to in- Such wonders are few and far between, how- volve their students in a widely respected profes- ever. Of course there are many other pieces in sional enterprise. For patrons of the arts and the the show that are worth spending time with, community as a whole, the Spring Show repre- but unfortunately many of the photographs and sents all that is great about the Erie arts scene. paintings surrounding these are mediocre – and Year after year, when the Spring Show is some can be called just plain awful. There always viewed, people can’t help but say, Wow! Erie really seems to be one piece every year slipped into the has talent, doesn’t it? What an amazing display of show that leaves viewers wondering how it got ability, creativity, and passion! in, but in this year’s show, such works seem to Year after year, the Erie Art Museum Spring show up on every wall. There is a pen drawing of Show impresses and amazes, showcasing local downtown Erie with no variety of line, depiction artists whose talent matches or surpasses that of of depth, or interesting focus. If it was handed any city anywhere. in for a grade in a high school drawing class, it Until this year, that is. might get a “B.” Comments this year from artists and patrons Presented in this show is a swirling, brightly M T F alike have ranged from the tactful and circum- colored painting of a lion and a lamb that is so spect, There are some good pieces here, to the out- cliché and amateurish that many viewers at the M T raged, What the [redacted] was this juror thinking? opening of the show walked by it, shook their Indeed, based on reports from connoisseurs heads, and chuckled out loud. They only stayed who saw the work that was rejected by this year’s amused for a short while before being confronted juror, the opportunity to fill the gallery space with the unsightly monstrosity next to it: a door- with treasures of ingenuity and skill was frittered way-sized painting of nude figures done in gaudy Mother's away. It appears that the show was picked based flat primary colors so distracting that it is hard on whatever amused this year’s juror rather than to remember the rest of the artwork in the room. more objective criteria such as originality, crafts- Why Rockman, a man intimately familiar with manship, or narrative content. professionalism and quality in visual art, would This year’s juror, Alexis Rockman, knows how pick such work for such an important show is Day to handle paint. He knows how to tell a story. exasperating. He knows how to connect with an audience. His It is hard to believe that Rockman took his job art is full of movement, depth, and fantasy. The seriously at all. Witnesses to the jurying process size and scope of his paintings could be called reported that he dismissed wonderful sculptures Starting at epic. Several pieces in the Spring Show this year with a wave of his hand. Paintings of sumptu- strongly reflect those traits and can be included ous color and exquisite detail that could keep a in the category of great art. viewer occupied for hours were barely glanced at. $ 00 It would behoove lovers of painting to come One would hope that an artist given the honor 95. see the Spring Show just to see Jamie Borow- of jurying such an important show would respect icz’s five-foot tall diptych, which depicts nature’s the people of Erie who care so much about our May 1, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 7 Dramashop Local Theater Troupe Brings an Edge to the Erie Stage

By: Alex Bieler

t’s a chilly Tuesday night, one of those unsurprising Erie evenings when the weather doesn’t seem to want to coop- erate with the average person’s wishes. Luckily, I’m indoors, where the room is warm and the walls are bright. Bright green, in fact, with the edges of the room seemingly pushed back with shelves full of books, photos, and trophies, all surrounding seven souls solely focused on the task at hand: rehearsal for “[title of show],” Dramashop’s final Ishow of its current season. Now, if you’ve ever read a Reader before, you may already be familiar with the not-for-profit contemporary theater company called Dra- mashop, as we at the Reader have covered a fair number of the troupe’s productions since the minds behind the Drama founded the shop back in May 2011. The scene was in trouble, no one was running the show, and the public was losing out on some great alternative theater. Fast forward to now – a room full of 85.7 per- cent acting-types and 14.3 percent me is engaged in rehearsing the theater company’s very first musical. The four actors take their positions while the director and his assistant focus on the quartet. And then it begins. “I’m sorry, are we in this scene now?” The words part from Rebecca Coleman’s lips and I quickly glance up from my notepad. It’s kind of an anticlimactic beginning for my inside look into the process of getting “[title of show]” ready for when its Schuster Theatre run starts May 23. While I wait for the scene to start over,

the other actors continue running through lines Jeremy Jeziorski like nothing out of the ordinary happened. Sud- denly, I realize that Rebecca wasn’t the one that Ken Brundage and Erika Krenn starred in Dramashop's provocative got lost – I was. mainstage production "In the Next Room or the vibrator play." You see, “[title of show]” isn’t your prototypical song-and-dance kind of musical – it’s a musical most kind of feels like ‘Dramashop the musical’ ally working through a script, and that’s in large Greco, the quartet at the core of Erie’s contem- about two guys writing a musical about two guys at times.” part why we came up with Dramashop – because porary-theater scene. As much as some naysay- writing a musical. Where I had thought Rebecca It doesn’t take long to figure out that Flock and we really like the nitty-gritty process of it. It’s not ers may decry The Gem City as a victim of brain had simply forgotten her place in the script, she the rest of the Dramashop crew are big fans of just the product, the process of it is really fulfill- drain, these four creative cats consciously came to was merely acting as her character Heidi, and I the process behind theater. Hell, you don’t even ing.” Northwest Pa. from the homes of Harmony, Pa., was being treated to an inside look at how the have to talk to them to figure that one out, given Of course, just because people like something Poland, Ohio, and other locales not named Erie inside of a show’s humble beginnings – almost a that the phrase “theater in process” is emblazoned doesn’t always mean that they end up acting on to attend Gannon, Mercyhurst, and Edinboro sort of rehearsal “Inception.” next to the logo on their website and is the main their passion, which is why my bacon-scented universities. “It’s very much a musical about the process focus of their “About” section on the official Dra- fragrances for him and her haven’t graced this After meeting through various shows at Gan- of doing theater, and we’re a company that’s all mashop Facebook page. plane of existence quite yet. For a nonprofit non and the Erie Playhouse, the quartet became about focusing on the process,” Dramashop Ar- “Collectively, we’re all a group of actors,” says performing company that dabbles in thought- friends outside the theater, although the stage tistic Director Zach Flock explains to me after Bryan Rall, sharp-dressed and bespectacled provoking modern theater to get off the ground was never far from their minds. Eventually, the the rehearsal. “There are lines in the show that president of the theater company. “One of the in our fair city of Erie, well that would take some group saw that the prospect of creating a con- when I hear them or say them, I just think that things that we collectively enjoy the most is the dedicated individuals and a lot of hard work. temporary theater company wasn’t all that un- it’s true to how we as a company function. It al- discovery in a character and the process of actu- Enter Zach, Bryan, Jess Ciccone, and Dom Del realistic after they successfully ran “The Book of 8 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com May 1, 2013 Liz,” an Amy and David Sedaris-written play, for play a prominent part in the Sarah Ruhl play, a Gannon’s Fringe Festival back in 2010. device that may cause a buzz among more tra- “I think that was the first manifestation of what ditional audience members. First-season closer, Dramashop was going to be, because I know “The Pillowman,” shocked some with its grue- [Zack] and I had discussions even before of start- some tales of how children were murdered in ing a theater company,” Rall says. a police state. “Dog Sees God” reimagined the “Honestly, there were lots of conversations over beloved characters from “Peanuts” dealing with drinks or just hanging out,” Zach agrees. “This is death, drugs, and a whole mess of situations in something we all love.” their teenage years that you wouldn’t have seen With that passion pushing them along, Dra- in the Sunday comics. mashop was born, filling a hole in the local While some of Dramashop’s shows may take theater community that had been missing since some people by surprise, shock value isn’t the groups like Director’s Circle and The Roadhouse only reason as to why it the local contemporary theaters had shuttered their doors. And as audi- theater crew chooses them for their season. ences have found out, there aren’t many topics “It’s calculated risk,” Zach says matter-of-factly that the folks at Dramashop will shy away from. says of the alternative material. “There’s some In its first two seasons, Dramashop has been able potential for some people to have an adverse re- to produce shows that tackle the importance of action to that type of material, but there’s also sexual intimacy (“In the Next Room or the vibra- the possibility that it’s going to be really well tor play”), the realities of those returning from received and that it’s something that the com- war (“Time Stands Still), highlight race rela- munity really embraces, and we saw that with tions (“Race”), the ‘vibrator play.’” trials of growing up Of course, not ev- with some beloved erybody will end up childhood characters “We’re not here agreeing with the (“Dog Sees God: foursome’s choices Confessions of a to offend people,” for the stage, but Teenage Blockhead), that’s how it works obsession with physi- Bryan explains. “To for pretty much ev- cal appearance (“rea- erything in life. There sons to be pretty), challenge? To maybe will always be those and… well, you prob- that aren’t happy with ably get the point. a decision, but that “Up until this make you think a doesn’t mean that a point, there really certain play shouldn’t hasn’t been anybody little differently or be approached. around to do them,” “We’re not here Carl Larese, owner of think a little outside to offend people,” Larese Floral Design Bryan explains. “To and season sponsor the box or step out of challenge? To maybe for Dramashop’s first make you think a two seasons, said. a comfort zone and little differently or In fact, he’s already think a little outside committed to the the box or step out of company’s upcoming see something you a comfort zone and third season, which see something you isn’t surprising, given wouldn’t normally see? wouldn’t normally Carl’s track record see? I think that’s for supporting the I think that’s much much more of where arts in Erie. In ad- we want people to dition to sponsoring more of where we go.” Dramshop, Carl also “If we choose serves as the execu- something provoca- tive vice president of want people to go.” tive, it’s for a reason,” the board at the Erie Dom, Dramashop’s

Jeremy Jeziorski Playhouse and immediately shuts down the idea vice president, quickly adds, leaning in closely. that the contemporary theater company could In addition, it’s not as if these edgier offerings steal the spotlight from the other theater venues were written by some scribe looking to shock the in town and end up sapping away their crowds. world for fun. Some selections have been writ- “The types of shows that they put on are totally ten by Pulitzer Prize nominees like the afore- different than what the Erie Playhouse audiences mentioned Ruhl, Academy Award winners like go for. I was very glad, very happy to see some- Dustin Lance Black, and Pulitzer Prize winning body pick it up and go with these more off-the- and Academy Award nominated playwrights like wall kind of shows,” Larese said over the phone. David Mamet. “You’re never going to see ‘The Sound of Music’ “I think Dramashop realized for themselves or ‘Hello, Dolly!’ at Dramashop. They just pick that there were things that they wanted to see shows that they know no one else will do. They’re that they weren’t going to see unless they pro- cutting edge, I should say. A little bit more avant- duced them themselves and shows that they garde. Some things might be a little more racy.” wanted to be a part of or they wanted to give Racy might be a gentle way to put it. As you other people a chance to be a part of,” says The might have guessed by the titles of some of Rev. Shawn Clerkin, sitting behind his cluttered their productions, Dramashop isn’t afraid to mix desk in Gannon’ Schuster Theater. The quick- things up with its chosen content. Take “In the talking director of theater at Gannon serves as Next Room or the vibrator play” for example. It Dramashop’s director emeritus, or as Zach puts shouldn’t come as a surprise that, well, vibrators it, the "Yoda" of the group. May 1, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 9 “It really was an invitation on the part of the to notice. In addition to board to join the board to help offer wise advice the content the group from having made lots of mistakes in theater and tends to aim for, there’s had some successes as well, to be able to share a definite bohemian feel with them, from my perspectives, the things to the crew, running that they need to do and the things they need on a small budget and to target,” Shawn explains while leaning forward powered by volunteered in his chair, hovering above the sheets of paper time. Even the four core and various thesis projects from miscellaneous members have jobs out- Gannon students. “Just a better-than-average, side of the work they do educated-and-experienced audience member, re- for Dramashop. Zach ally, is probably my best description [of my role]. is an assistant director I’m there to be kind of a reality tester for the in Gannon’s Office of above-40 crowd.” Admissions. Jess works While the eternally youthful Shawn certainly as an administrative has no qualms about the edgy shows Dramashop assistant/bookkeeper puts on, he knows that not everyone in his age for ArtsErie. Dom is bracket and on up will go crazy for the two-year- a scenic assistant and old theater group’s production choices. Of course, education assistant at that’s all according to plan. the Erie Playhouse. “Their primary niche is trying to provide op- Bryan dubbed himself portunities for performance and programming as “kind of the oddball Jeremy Jeziorski that is especially interesting to that twenty- of the group” for work- something crowd,” Shawn says. “They’re building ing in the department Bill Williams (left) and Nick Kikola size each other up in David Mamet's "Race." an audience. They’re offering free opportunities of emergency medicine in the staged readings, which is smart so that at UPMC Hamot as a people know that they’re serious but also know physician assistant. on was to budget modestly, to not take on the were blindsided by it,” Dom admits. that they’re interested in reaching out to the com- The group lives on the edge, both in terms of financial burden of a facility, of a staff. We’re a Still, even though Dramashop isn’t putting munity. Things like the recent reading of ‘8’ [the content and in pocketbook. It wasn’t too long ago volunteer-driven organization, so we’re definitely any meals on the quartet’s tables, they continue Pulitzer-nominated play dealing with Proposi- when the Director’s Circles and Roadhouses of trying to keep our expenses in check. For a lot to float to different venues in the area in order tion 8 in California] was an important statement the scene closed, a trend that was all too common of organizations, it’s the overhead expenses, it’s to fulfill their personal mission, something that’s because it’s part of our national dialogue and part across the nation. not producing shows.” Of course, simply having being noticed by people in the community. of our national awareness, but it’s also important “There was a slide in spending in the arts 2001 been able to witness how the art community was “From what I’ve seen of their productions, to Dramashop to establish a sense of inclusivity that was kind of compounded by economic affected certainly helped the Dramashop crew the work they do is quite remarkable, especially and openness as part of their programming.” downturn in 2008, so a lot of arts organizations understand the need to be careful with expenses. knowing how young they are as a group,” Jax Ku- According to Shawn, there’s a definite youthful were just hit by a tough economy,” Zach says. “We now have the luxury of being aware of biak says, sitting down after rehearsal for Gan- vibe attached to Dramashop, which isn’t too hard “One of the things that we set out to do early the state of the economy right now whereas they non’s production of “The World Goes ‘Round” in

Tickets may be purchased at The Erie Maritme Museum Gift Shop located inside the Blasco Library complex.

Sept. 5 - 9, 2013 Weekend Tickets = $22 (good for Fri-Sun) Day Tickets = $14

off weekend $2 or day passes expires on June 15, 2013.

10 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com May 1, 2013 the Schuster Theatre, the black box-styled venue much. where “[title of show]” will be shown. “We don’t expect that the first time an actor is “Zach called me and explained what they were on stage doing the blocking that they’re going to doing as far as developing Dramashop and what be comfortable and that they’re going to have all the group was about,” Jax, Gannon’s technical of the decisions made that they need,” Zach says. director and design faculty and director of “The “We know that it takes four or five or six weeks World Goes ‘Round” explains. “I like to see new to figure out who is this person that I’m playing art groups come about and I like the idea that if and all of those details. As directors, we don’t put ART you have an idea and get somewhere with it you all of that out there on the actor on day one, and Happy Hour! Center City Arts opens our can do something cool, so it just started out of ‘I chances are we don’t know all of that on day one Carriage House Studio know you, you know me, you already know the either, so it really is a process to figure it out.” with evening classes for everyone! space.’ It seemed natural for them to come and “It’s not something you can just slap on a be a part of this.” stage, and there it is and it’s The Schuster Theatre isn’t great,” Jess, Dramashop’s Imagine being in art class again, but as an adult and with a friend! the only place Dramashop "Wherever the bar secretary/treasurer adds. Take the studio class with many art experiences taking place at once. has taken the stage. Their “There’s a lot of work, The coolest art class in the coolest place in town. Learn a lot about past two shows, “Dog Sees is, they want to keep there’s a lot of character many art mediums and maybe just a little about yourself. God” and “8,” were located raising it and pushing development. Even when at the Renaissance Center it opens, it might not be Theater and PACA, respec- it up. They don’t want done. It’s going to change Pressure free. tively. And when it comes to to sit back and relax, throughout the run if we’re “8,” part of the Erie Reader doing it right because we’re Staged Reading Series, not that’s not part of the still learning something EVERY TUESDAY only did a packed PACA psyche of this group.” from the script every time Beginning May 7th house get to see the type of you perform it and that’s From 7-8 pm modern-day programming theater in process.” $15 per class + material fee that the theater company likes to put on, but Having interviewed a fair number of first-time (varies depending on medium) also how much of an opportunity they provide Dramashop performers from previous shows, Open Studio Includes: for the Erie community to become involved as one constant thought through the actors was Fused Glass well, with a cast of nearly 20 taking the stage for how exciting it was to be involved with the American Crafts the Dustin Lance Black play, including 13 first- theater company, being a part of a show that Mixed media Drawing/Painting Center City Arts time Dramashop performers. wouldn’t have been available if it weren’t for the Jewelry While there were some familiar faces in the- process-loving group. 138 E. 26th Street Erie, PA 16504 ater circles, like Jerry Brace, the show provided “It’s definitely something that our students 814.878.2027 everyone from student actors to stage rookies a wouldn’t have the opportunity of being involved CenterCityArtsErie.org Create. Evolve. Live. Center City Arts chance to not only act, but experience the whole with here, just because [Dramashop] does a f process that the Dramashop core cares about so lot more edgier pieces,” Jax says. [Cont. on 20]

SIDENTS A RE ARE RIE InnovationErie Y E 12 B 1, ' , '1 '10 2013 IN W RO N A S I AR V YE OT ER 3 ED BEST CATER

Artists. Inventors. Thinkers. Got an idea? Submit it to the InnovationErie: Design Competition for a chance to win over $15,000 in cash and professional services. entry deadline: Monday, May 13, 2013 InnovationErie.net for details & submission guidelines

May 1, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 11 MAY 1 - 14 If We Were You...

WEDNESDAY 5.01 and appetizers. No worries, there will also be si- ist Todd Scalise and his permanent installation at more ‘splaining from us, we’d probably say that lent and live auctions and basket raffles. the Erie Art Museum. Now you have the chance the Wilco- and Paul McCartney-influenced Edinboro University's When: 5 p.m. to see the formative works that lead to Scalise’s acoustic plucker makes for a great listen while Annual Student Art Show Where: Erie Art Museum, 20 E. Fifth St. distinctive HIGHERglyphics style, with pieces you sample the tasty brews and get in some deli- Opening Reception Contact: 453.5921 on display previously exhibited in New York, cious chews at the Brewerie. If the Erie Art Museum's Spring Show left you Chasing Moira w/ Santa Fe, and Paris. And to make it better? All When: 9 p.m. wanting more, you're in luck! The students of Ed- Falling Hollywood the art on display will be for sale, so you too can Where: Brewerie at Union Station, 123 W. 14 St. inboro University are putting their best artistic It’s a good thing you picked this fine paper up display some Scalise work in your home, office, Contact: 454.2200 endeavours on display for your viewing pleasure. right when it came out on newsstands, because restaurant, business, or wherever it is you like to This opening reception is free and open to the there’s this super cool show happening at Sher- look at good art. public. lock’s with local jamsters Chasing Moira and When: Artist gallery talk at 6; SUNDAY 5.05 When: 5 to 7 p.m. folk-rockers Falling Hollywood that’s sure to be Opening reception at 7 p.m. Where: Edinboro University's Bruce a jolly-good time. And if you didn’t pick up the Where: Urraro Gallery, 135 W. 14th St. Muddy Roots Road Tour Contact: 455.6240 Gallery, 215 Meadville St. Edinboro paper in time to see this posting, well, there’s al- Come one, come all to the mysterious and Contact: 732.2513 ways next time. All An Act Theatre presents: magical Muddy Roots Road Tour! We’ve got the When: 9 p.m. Michael Parker’s Hysterical spectacles for all you folks, both bespectacled and THURSDAY 5.02 Where: Sherlock’s, 508 State St. farce “The Sensuous Senator” not. Check out rockers like the fiery Joe Buck Contact: 453.7760 Join the cast of the All An Act Theatre as they Yourself, the frenzied energy of Sean Y Zander, Come Fly With Me perform the comical tale of Senator Douglas the sweetly dark sounds of Rachel Brooke, and Fly on down to the Erie Art Museum and check FRIDAY 5.03 as he makes a run for Presidency on a morality the rambunctious Viva Le Vox. It’ll be a feast for out the fifth annual art show fundraiser. Enjoy stance. This plot takes an interesting twist when your eyes and ears, so swing by the crooked i and the silent auction, which displays more than 40 Illuminerie: Retrospective/ Senator Douglas’s wife goes out of town and the check out the festivities. birdhouse-themed designs, all created by artists 2000-2009 good senator invites his girlfriend over for the When: 10 p.m. from the local area. Listen to the tunes of K.T. In our last issue, we featured a Scalized cover and night. When the senator’s girlfriend is unable Where: the crooked i, 1013 State St. and the Sunshine Man while enjoying a cash bar a Cory Vaillancourt-penned story about Erie art- to join him for the night, he invites another lady Contact: facebook.com/thecrookedierie friend over and the adventure begins. Head down to the theatre to find out what comical twist awaits the senator. MONDAY 5.06 When: 7:30 p.m. Where: All An Act Theare, 652 W. 17th St. DC rockers Melodime play free Contact: 450.8553 show at Edinboro University Lipbone Redding w/ Zack Orr You may have never heard of this three-piece Now, before you get on our case about how the "from a farm outside Washington D.C.," but human lip doesn’t contain any bones, you should that's no reason to blow off their free show to- probably check out singer-songwriter Lipbone night at the Pogue Student Center. Melodime Redding play before you judge his name. The Big plays rootsy, original southern rock, with a real Apple-based musician is known for his funky appreciation for the past. They're also donating Chasing Moira & rhythms and lip-tromboning will be playing with the proceeds of their new album to less fortunate Thu. May 2 local favorite Zack Orr, with just a suggested do- children who have the desire to play an instru- Falling Hollywood nation of $10 asked of you, and for a show like ment, but lack the resources. A great cause and this, giving back shouldn’t be too hard. a free show from a great sounding band. Check Fri. May 3 Hammerd When: 8 p.m. them out at melodime.com. Where: Erie Art Museum, 20 E. Fifth St. When: 8 to 10 p.m. Contact: 459.5477 Where: Pogue Student Center, Scot Cinema, Edinboro University Sat. May 4 Renegades of Funk SATURDAY 5.04 Contact: edinboro.edu MS Walk Thu. May 9 Revere Help raise support for the people of our com- TUESDAY 5.07 munity by participating in the Erie 2013 Walk for MS. Join the community as walkers journey Destination Erie Workshops Fri. May 10 I-90s three miles through Presque Isle State Park, and Have a vision for what Erie is? Want a say in give your support for the people living with MS. Erie’s future? Don’t want to be locked out of the Registration & Check-In starts at 10 a.m. and conversation when it comes to shaping the place the walk begins at 11 a.m. we all call home? Today, you have two chances Sat. May 11 Dekan When: 10 a.m. to have your voice be heard in hopes of build- Where: Presque Isle State Park, 1 Peninsula Dr. ing a more sustainable region by addressing the Contact: 412.261.6347 economic, social, and environmental challenges Thu. May 16 Hammersmith MJT Erie faces in the 21st Century. Remember, we’re One man, three letters, decades of experience. all the key to Erie’s future success, and if we don’t Yeah, that’s one way to describe MJT, but since take advantage of these workshops, we’re locking 508 State Street 18-20 North Park Row 814-453-7760 you lovely Reader readers might want a little ourselves out of our own future. For more details 12 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com May 1, 2013 and information, visit PlanErieRegion.com THURSDAY 5.09 SATURDAY 5.11 and smaller as children get older and older. Cel- When: 9 to 11 a.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. ebrate that symbolic release with a literal release Where: St. John’s Parish Center, 1001 Crooked Bass Hiking Along the Erie of Painted Lady Butterflies at the expERIEnce Main Street, E. Girard, Fort LeBoeuf High Sometimes you just need to listen to some- Bluffs State Park Children’s museum. School, 931 N. High Street, Waterford thing loud, something that really thumps along, Journey through a morning of hiking and ad- When: 1 to 4 p.m. Contact: 451.6200 and 451.6200 something which so much bass that it’ll leave venture as you stroll along the Erie Bluffs State Where: 420 French St. your head shaking. Good thing this edition of Park. Take in the sites of vernal pools and spring Contact: 453.3473 or eriechildrensmuseum.org WEDNESDAY 5.08 Crooked Bass features the talented Neckbrace, wildflowers on this three mile hike over moderate along with 814 Bass Crew stalwarts NatasK, terrain. Gather in the Erie Bluffs parking lot and MONDAY 5.13 Remarkable American Ghost Alive, and Matter. be sure to bring your camera for this unforget- Women: Ida Tarbell When: 10 p.m. table adventure. Get twisted at the Erie Playhouse Born in Erie County, Ida Tarbell was an author, Where: the crooked i, 1013 State St. When: 10 a.m. Tonight and tomorrow only, join the Erie Play- teacher, journalist, and one of the leading muck- Contact: facebook.com/thecrookedierie Where: Erie Bluffs State Park, house for a special Composer Lyricist Concert. rakers of the progressive era. She is known for off route 5 near Lake City. The show, called "Twisted Broadway" promises to Contact: 833.7424 being largely responsible for the breakup of Stan- FRIDAY 5.10 be a fun one, and features a who's who of Play- dard Oil. Learn all about her remarkable life at house performers. They'll be singing the songs we this lecture at the Jefferson Educational Society. The Riverside Inn Dinner Theatre SUNDAY 5.12 all love, but herein lies the twist. Men will sing When: 4 to 5:30 p.m. presents “Always Patsy Cline” songs written for women, and women will sing Where: JES, 3207 State St. Head down to the Riverside Inn Dinner Theatre Mother's Day Butterfly songs written for men. This is a show not to be Contact: 459.8000 to see the tale, based on a true story, of the leg- Celebration missed for fans of the Playhouse, and you have Destination Erie Public endary country singer Patsy Cline. Follow her Being a parent, especially a mother, is all about two nights to catch it. Workshops, Day 2 friendship with Houston fan Louise Seger in this letting go. Little by little, the laundry list of When: May 13 and 14, 7:30 p.m. If you're interested in helping to plot Erie's old-fashioned country musical. Featuring Cline’s things mothers do for their children gets smaller Where: Erie Playhouse, 13 W. 10th St. course for the next 50 years, but you just couldn't unforgettable hits, this play is full of country hu- Contact: 454.2852, erieplayhouse.org find the time yesterday, you're in luck. As you've mor and true emotion. no doubt read elsewhere in this very issue, to- When: 7 p.m. day and tonight the Destination Erie tour bus Where: The Riverside Inn Dinner is making stops in Harborcreek and downtown Theatre, 1 Fountain Ave. Contact: 800.956.9490 Erie to get our input on what we think the vision for our region should be as we move forward into the 21st century. First up is a morning meeting The Albrights w/ Chrome Moses at the Fairfield Social Hall, followed by an eve- If you were to ask someone what each one of ning gathering at the Avalon Hotel. Two more their family member’s favorite Buffalo-based opportunities to make your voice be heard. Don't band was, they might say “Mommy’s Albrights, Officially miss out. Daddy’s Albrights,” which might be a little weird, Licensed When: 9 to 11 a.m. but you’d be a fool not to surrender to the bluesy- Where: Fairfield Social Hall, 4896 East Lake Road pop mix of the The Albrights and their opener Contact: planerieregion.com Chrome Moses. When: 10 p.m. When: 7 to 9 p.m. Where: the crooked i, 1013 State St. Fraternity & Sorority Greek Products Where: Avalon Hotel-Niagara Contact: facebook.com/thecrookedierie Room, 16 West 10th Street th Contact: planerieregion.com 1702 West 8 Street

May 1, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 13 celebrations that you should know about. Read- ers, I hereby invite you to partake in Free Comic Book Day. To-do List For every first Saturday in May since 2002, Free Comic Book Day has been helping to spread the By: Alex Bieler joys of comics to an increasing audience of ap- preciative fans. Luckily for us Erie folk, Books Galore at 5546 Peach St. and Above & Beyond London Underground Comics at 1126 W. 26th St. will be participating ometimes things just don’t work out. When in this year’s May 4 bash, giving out a free comic it comes to breaking up, there are all sorts of to any interested person, all in the spirit of the reasons as to why people go their separate event. UPCOMING EVENTS Sways with ranging levels of blame doled out to “It’s our busiest day of the year,” said Doug Phil- those involved. A separation could be due to frus- lips, assistant manager and comic guru at Books tration or constant bickering, but Mike Edgerly Galore. “It’s absolutely jam-packed. Last year we decided that he just needed something a little had a non-stop line for the comics from the time different. we opened at 10 a.m. until about 4 o’clock.” “I wanted to change, but I couldn’t figure out As the comic-book culture continues to grow HANGDOG HEARTS what I wanted to do,” he said. “It came to the through the successes of print-based smash hits, point where I got frustrated and told people like AMC’s “The Walking Dead” and the vari- MAY 2 // THURSDAY @ 10:00 ‘Look, I’m just doing some acoustic gigs, Abadon ous superhero blockbuster films, the masses have Faluz is done.’” a day to cheer on their inner comic geek. Hell, Yes, it appears Mike’s one-man Mississippi even those naysayers who still think that comic blood blues act is no more, but don’t you Reader books are just for kids can head to these havens readers fret too much, as this breakup with, well, of printed products to see what the fun is about. himself has resulted in a new musical relation- “People still kind of think comics are for kids, THE ROMANTIC ERA ship: London Underground. The hard-at-work but I think the stigma is going away a little bit musician has taken quickly to the new name, of- more now that our generation are now that par- MAY 3 // FRIDAY @ 10:00 fering listeners plenty of opportunities to catch a ents and leaders,” Doug said. “I mean, I’m 40, and London Underground performance, including a the stigma is now being leeched away that it’s not Saturday, May 4 show out at Mound Grove Golf Course in Waterford and a May 11 gig at The Villa in Cambridge Springs. Of course, if you’re As the comic-book culture DIEMONDS familiar with Mike’s work, just know that with this new moniker comes a whole new style and continues to grow through WITH SPECIAL GUEST THE MIZZERABLES big breath of fresh air. the successes of print-based MAY 4 // SATURDAY @ 10:00 “Basically what it was, Abadon Faluz had been around forever, and my wife [Laurie] wanted to smash hits, like AMC’s start doing some shows with me,” Mike said.“It ended up being that Abadon Faluz is its own “The Walking Dead” and thing, and it really wasn’t meant to be more than the various superhero MUDDY ROOTS ROAD TOUR just me. So when she came into the picture I said that we should just change everything and just blockbuster films, the MAY 5 // SUNDAY @ 10:00 get a new name, develop a new sound, and we expanded to more instruments and just looping masses have a day to cheer and more stuff.” Moving away from the horror-based tunes of on their inner comic geek. Abadon Faluz, London Underground finds Mike and Laurie exploring a sound that mixes elements a respectable art form or a respectable form of THE ALBRIGHTS of Neil Young and electronica, creating a sort of literature. I don’t think anybody can argue that alternative techno-folk. Of course, London Un- the more your kid reads, the more they’ll be bet- WITH SPECIAL GUEST CHROME MOSES derground shows will still feature their fair share ter off.” MAY 10 // FRIDAY @ 10:00 of crowd-pleasing covers, part of an experience Of course, if you want to really get into the spir- that Mike calls “live instrument DJ-ing.” it of the day, Doug said that if you wear a comic, While we may all mourn the loss of Abadon sci-fi, or fantasy-related costume to Books Galore Faluz, we’ve got plenty of good memories that on Free Comic Book Day, you’ll get another free still need to be made with London Underground, comic on top of the one you’ve already earned for so go out, raise a glass, and celebrate the begin- just showing up. They’ll also be holding a food SHOTGUN JUBILEE nings of a beautiful relationship. drive, so bring down a non-perishable donation WITH SPECIAL GUEST NORTHTOWN for another chance for a free comic to bring your STATION AND CLAIRE STUCZYNSKI potential overall haul to three free books. Free Comic Book Day If you’re drawn to comics or like investigating MAY 11 // SATURDAY @ 10:00 n the last issue of the Erie Reader, you may something fun, don’t be afraid to tap into your in- have noticed a story produced by Matthew ner nerd and curiosity on Free Comic Book Day. Flowers, one of our many fine writers, on a Who knows, maybe next year you’ll be moderat- Ilittle event called National Record Store Day. In ing debates on Deadpool and heading the Ror- his piece, the roguishly handsome Flowers (ev- schach Appreciation Club. eryone saw you ogling his picture whilst you pe- rused the pages of the April 17 issue, so you can Alex Bieler can be contacted at aBieler@ErieRead- TUE: Songwriter Showcase & Vinyl Night just admit it) detailed the joys of a day meant to er.com, and you can follow “commemorate the non-commercialized culture him on Twitter @Catch20Q. SUN: Open Mic & Jam surrounding independent record stores and the To follow this story or com- art of music.” ment, scan the QR code or go Now, I know that National Record Store Day to http://erirdr.com/yphst has come and gone, but there are other 24-hour 14 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com May 1, 2013 Kopecky Family Band Q&A Rising Indie Folksters Charm Audiences One City at a Time

By: Alex Bieler GS: Toledo. AB: Ah, Tony Packo’s. I’m originally from n a rainy Friday night in Cleveland, Cleveland. my trustworthy part-time photogra- GS: I was just at my brother’s house and we pher/full-time girlfriend Carly Lyons open up his fridge, and he’s just got jars and jars and I went to a sold-out family gath- of Tony Packo’s pickles. My dad ships them to ering. No, not a Bieler family get-together, but a my wife and me. Oreunion of sorts with Kopecky Family Band. SH: Kelsey’s from Minneapolis, Minnesota As some of you Reader readers remember, and Corey is from North Carolina; our drummer

the Nashville, Tenn.-based band has graced our David [Krohn] is from Denver, Colorado… Contributed Photo pages before, with member Gabe Simon drop- AB: So you all can pretty much draw a big Left to Right: David Krohn, Kelsey Kopecky, Corey Oxendine, ping a few lines in last summer’s Summer Music circle around Belmont and just came right to the Gabe Simon, Markus Midkiff, Steven Holmes Festival cover story and our review of their debut middle. LP “Kids Raising Kids.” Well, I decided to head SH: Literally, we were all drawn to the same Now when we’ve been doing it for so many years, playing cello with my uncle. These guys are the out to the Beachland Ballroom and Tavern in school, the same city, state, but I don’t think any we’re able to just throw it out. Yes, there is still first people I go to for everything. For the most Cleveland to check out the on-the-rise, instru- of us were going there to start a band. some discomfort, but letting it go and knowing important day in my life, who else do I want to ment-sharing, harmony-loving indie sextet on GS: All of us came there for different reasons. that the song is going to be way better with these share it with? the stage and snag an interview with them about I never thought I’d be in a band. I was moving six opinions, it’s part of the whole family aspect. Ty Pennington, Tony Packo’s in Toledo, Ohio, to Nashville to be done with playing music and SH: We’re business partners, yeah, but we Want to be part of the family? Check out Kopecky start being in business. Kelsey had been a solo know so much about each others struggles and Family Band Thursday, May 9 when they swing artist; Steven was looking to get into the music desires. We annoy each other, we get into fights, through Club Cafe in Pittsburgh. industry. but at the end of the day, we all love each other "What I love about our band CO: Markus [Midkiff ] and I wanted to be and we’re working toward the same goal. Alex Bieler can be contacted session players. I was a country guitarist before I GS: A picture in my head that’s very beauti- at [email protected], and the way we’ve progressed joined this band. ful is that when I got married back in Septem- and you can follow him on over the years is the ability to GS: Look at how hip he is now! [Laughs] ber – [Corey] is running the camera, [Steven] Twitter @Catch20Q. To fol- CO: I was hip back then – I was the hip coun- is ushering people, David is ushering, [Kelsey’s] low this story or comment, really let the ownership from try guitarist. greeting people and welcoming people, [cello scan the QR code or go to yourself as an individual be GS: We made him throw out his Affliction T- player] Markus [Midkiff ] is up on the balcony http://erirdr.com/bbzfe shirts. put on the table and let’s just CO: Ha ha ha… really write songs together." AB: So you all come together and created this family. It’s very inclusive and your music comes silkscreenunlimited.com off that way. I’ve heard a couple of people de- and being a family. scribe your music as a modern take on Fleetwood 1.800.724.1683 Alex Bieler: Recently you guys signed on with Mac and another as rousing folk-pop. ATO Records, the same label as My Morning KK: I would love to say a modern version of Jacket and Alabama Shakes. What’s that like? Fleetwood Mac – that’s such a compliment, but Like us! Corey Oxendine: It’s pretty surreal man – it’s the Stevie Nicks is a little much to say of yourself. awesome. We’re on a roster with bands that we’ve What I love about our band and the way we’ve respected for a long time. progressed over the years is the ability to really Gabe Simon: We’re just getting started, too, so let the ownership from yourself as an individual the sky’s the limit right now. We have no idea be put on the table and let’s just really write songs what to expect, so we hope for great things. together. Let’s share the bass, let’s share the lead AB: My girlfriend was actually creeping on you vocals, let’s share harmonies. on Twitter, because, like me, she’s also good at it, GS: Let’s share the music. Screen Printing | Embroidery | Engraving and she saw that Ty Pennington is a fan. KK: Yeah, just really letting it be whatever it is. Kelsey Kopecky: Yeah, he came to our show I think the writing process, with each record from when we were playing in this festival called the “Embraces” to the new record, it’s been little time Savannah Stopover. He is a musical friend of ours capsules of where we were as people and as song- through the guy who produced “The Disaster.” writers and what we were learning and thinking Long story short, he got our music awhile back, about. I love that freedom. so when we met it was really funny, like, “Wait, AB: So, how do you write together? Is it col- you’re on television.” He was just like, “I just love laborative or do you different things? your band, I can’t wait to see you guys.” And the CO: It’s definitely changed over time. whole time, he’s just snapping pictures of us, and SH: The way that I’ve been viewing our writing I was like “Move that bus!” is like a really cohesive amalgamation, like every- AB: So, are you all originally from Nashville? body’s strengths and weaknesses. Like Hungry Steven Holmes: None of us, actually. We all Hungry Hippos, just shooting their food back went to university there. Most of us met fresh- out at everybody. Honestly, everybody in this men year at Belmont, and it blossomed from band is a really unique musician. there. We all came from different parts of the GS: It’s vulnerable. It’s not saying no to any- country – I came pretty much to Belmont from thing right off the bat and that’s hard for some of the Philippines. My family’s all based in South us. Like me, when we come forth with that first Carolina. Gabe’s family is originally from Ohio, initial grain of a song, it’s hard to realize that that but he grew up in South Carolina. song can turn into something completely dif- AB: Where at in Ohio? ferent when you grow to care about it so much. May 1, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 15 To follow this story or comment, scan the QR code or go to http://erirdr.com/ MUSIC zmc88 REVIEWS Frank Turner Yeah Yeah Yeahs Tape Deck Heart Mosquito Phoenix Interscope Interscope Bankrupt! Glassnote There’s a definite charm to the path Frank Eric Brewer & Friends Since the release of their de- Turner has taken in his career. Years of incessant Seeing Sideways but album “Fever to Tell,” it’s If you happened to be touring while playing the type of music that a Self-Released seemed like the Yeah Yeah around a radio during the musician has always wanted Yeahs couldn’t be held back. turn of the last decade, you to make doesn’t necessarily It would be easy to un- Sophomore album “Show most likely heard a fair bit lead to great success, but for derstand how local guitar Your Bones” saw the NYC of Phoenix blaring over the Turner and his backing band phenom Eric Brewer could trio mature and reach out airwaves. After songs like The Sleeping Souls, the re- overshadow his highly-ca- to a larger audience before the group released “Lisztomania” and “1901” became big hits, the sults – playing the opening pable friends Steve Barone the wonderful “It’s Blitz.” However, instead of French band rose to a level of prominence ceremony in the 2012 Olym- on percussion, Joe Cieslak continuing to refine their sound on newest ef- few would have expected from the quartet. pics and such – have turned out quite well. Still, on sax, Charlie Meyer on fort “Mosquito,” the Yeah Yeah Yeahs decided to On their latest album “Bankrupt!,” it definitely that won’t change the way the British-trouba- keys, and Ralph Reitinger III on bass on this step back and try to return to a grittier sound, seems like the group is well-aware of its current dour makes his music, coming back with the long-anticipated release, but luckily for us, but instead of returning to basics, the group status, providing a look into the world of a suc- intensely personal “Tape Deck Heart.” Granted, that’s not what happens. Filled with 60 min- sounds like they tumbled a bit on the way cessful band travelling around the globe amid the album sounds much closer to a traditional utes of Phish-y, Dave Matthews-y tracks that down. Opener “Sacrilige” takes no prisoners, a 10-spot of synth-soaked songs. Still, it seems rock record than Turner’s standard fare, one bounce and buckle and slink and slide, “Seeing but after the gospel choir closes the track, the that the album can’t hide from the successes listen to his lyrics shows the songwriter’s typi- Sideways” strikes a solid balance between the album can’t quite keep up the pace, especially of the smash-hit record “Wolfgang Amadeus cal flair for wordsmithing. “Tape Deck Heart” eponymous frontman and the rest of the band. floundering with questionable tunes like “Area Mozart.” When frontman Thomas Mars sings may run a tad bit long, but with the wonder- Although this album pales in comparison to 52” and “Buried Alive.” Still, after the latter track, “follow, follow, follow me,” it’s nearly impos- ful single “Recovery,” the expletive-laced rocker EBF’s uproarious extended live jams, it instead the Yeah Yeah Yeahs do redeem themselves sible not to think of the famous “falling” lines in “Plain Sailing Weather,” and the always fun “Four serves as the “reference version” of these tunes with a trio of songs, notably the sweet “Wed- “1901.” “Bankrupt!” is a solid enough album, but Simple Words,” you’ll definitely end up dancing. – much like Phish’s albums do – and just in time ding Song,” that helps distract from earlier fol- it never hits enough high points to quite live up - Alex Bieler for summer festival season. - Cory Vaillancourt lies. - Alex Bieler to its predecessor. - Alex Bieler

May 1-14 May 5-10 Annual Student Art Show Student Thesis Exhibition Bruce Gallery, Doucette Hall by Travis Winters Reception: May 1, 5-7pm Bates Gallery, Loveland Hall May 2 Reception: May 10, 6-8pm Edinboro Film Series May 6 Double Feature: Wild Bill & Live Music by Melodime The People vs. George Lucas Frank G. Pogue Student Center Frank G. Pogue Student Center Scot Cinema, 8pm Scot Cinema, 8:30pm Open Mic Night to follow at 9pm May 13-18 May 2 May 8-12 Student Thesis Exhibition Symphonic Wind Ensemble/ Student-Directed by Garrett Loveless Jazz Ensemble Concert Plays by David Ives Bates Gallery, Loveland Hall Louis C. Cole Auditorium, 7:30pm Diebold Center for the Reception: May 13, 7-9pm Performing Arts May 4 7:30pm; Sunday at 2:30pm Through May 25 Spring Concert: Thesis Exhibition by Tickets are free for EU students, Hot Chelle Rae EU Students and Alumna $3 for all other students, and McComb Fieldhouse, 8pm Meadville Council on the Arts $5 for General Admission. 910 Market Street, Meadville, PA Through May 18 Thesis exhibition by Student Thesis Exhibition MFA candidate in ceramics by Angie Seykora Gratia Brown and MFA PACA, 1505 State Street, Erie, PA candidate in painting Admission is $10 for EU Thesis exhibition by Michelle L. Ghisson, students, $20 for General MFA candidate in sculpture along with Edinboro Admission, and $25 at the Angie Seykora. Gallery hours alumna Anne Mormile. door. Tickets are available are 12‐6pm weekdays and on at edinborotickets.com. weekends by appointment.

All events are on Edinboro University main campus, unless otherwise noted.

For a full listing of events, visit www.edinboro.edu/calendar 16 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com May 1, 2013 Street Fashionista Mama Love

By: Leslie McAllister Leo Where? Frontier Park gentle smile, a warm, knowing touch, Why Jessica? Well. You tell me. She's perfect, the right words, the perfectly made isn't she? Jessica is the quintessential beautiful, sandwich. I always tease my mom active, creative, smart, silly, imaginative mama that, sure, I could make a turkey sand- bird – as she calls herself – wandering around in wich, but it just tastes better when she makes it; wonderment with her lovely bitties! totallyA true – you know what I'm talking about. Just check out her Instagram (@ohjessica); you Being raised in the home of an active and cre- will see what I mean. She's a visionary, and it's ative mama shapes your awareness of things – you trickling down to her little ones. just see stuff differently. My mom never bought Now this is a mama who needs her own blog. me the Barbie townhouse; I had to make my Though she makes it look easy, every thing Jessica own out of cardboard and book shelves. And I'm does has thought and purpose. Birthday parties, better for it. I rarely got to sit around the house Sunday morning's breakfast, crafting and play watching TV; I had to make my own adventure. time all have serious fun, cerebral pertinence, and Leslie McAllister So my old pal Emily and I would go "exploring;” imagination. Love her, love her, and love her. Frontier Park, the "castles" – otherwise known as What We Want to Know: Your Instragram visuals are excellent. Tell us If you could add anything to Erie's com- the old Strong estates down by Erie Day School Describe your style. I feel like I am sort of a your tips on taking an interesting photo. I am a munity to better the growth and education of – and South Shore were our adventuring spots. chameleon. Always a classic black dress kind of big fan of natural light, different angles, and using our youth what would it be? Maybe a museum Such imagination. Nothing my mother ever gal, but I still like to be comfortable, casual, and filters to change the mood of a photo. Whether it of natural history – wouldn’t that be nice? I’ve did or does was half-arsed. To this day, she still playful with everyday looks. be snapshot of my babes or beautiful Lake Erie, if always thought it might be cool to have more threatens that she's going to stencil the driveway. Describe your children's style. Well, Audrey it makes me feel something I like to share. community pools, kids can learn a lot about life I'm sure she will, and it will probably be check- is a girl after my own heart. Her look usually How has social networking changed for out there. That’s a tough question without get- erboard. requires a dress or a skirt. Leo has no choice in mothers? Is there more of a sense of commu- ting political - but I know that I love learning, These active and creative moms also tend to be the matter; I like to put him in bright colors and nity now? I’ve connected with a pretty awesome and I want our children to grow up with a love of very fashionable and dress their children with patterns as long as he seems comfortable and can community of people online. I love being able to learning that never stops. pizzazz – mixing patterns, big rain boots, ador- wiggle. share a small glimpse of my life by following and Best birthday theme to date (you have some able straw fedoras, and silly, whimsical, and fan- Your inspiration, be it design, style aesthetic, connecting with other moms. Social media also cute ones!). Leo’s lumberjack party at the Log tastical costumes to dream the day away. architecture, or a certain celebrity. I get inspira- inspires me to slow down and take the time to Cabin on Presque Isle was pretty fun. Even the These ladies are lovely and inspiring – active tion from multiple sources; I think that experi- snap a photo, to capture even the littlest moments adults had a good time! moms love function, so anything worn will be mentation is the key. Sometimes a color invigo- in life. Don’t get me wrong; I am certainly not the Fill in the blank: I love the smell of _____ li- for class and comfort. Running after mischievous rates me; other times, I see exemplary style – I type that has to capture every single moment, lacs in the springtime. loved ones proves quite trying on the tootsies, observe and replicate. either. You’ve got to find a nice balance. Nothing Finish this sentence: When I have a minute to so comfy, cute flats put the cushion in rushing Favorite grey-day project, and with that, fa- worse than the “iPad Videographer” who is miss- myself, I indulge in _____my sewing machine! around. Flowy tops and skinny jeans keep a busy vorite sunny-day project. I’m usually crafting. ing out on life right in front of them because they mom looking crisp, on trend, and smart. Hair Anything that looks interesting can probably were too busy trying to socially share. Jessica is an Erie native who still jumps a pretty pulled into a ponytail keeps it all in its place al- have some new life with updated colors, paints, What is the coolest thing out there for kids mean Double Dutch. She is currently helping to lowing these maternal mavens to shine. and patterns. Either that or you will find me bak- right now? Audrey has a pretty cool dancing ro- plan the Erie Art Museums pARTy on the Patio Let's face it – mom looks good no matter what ing with the kiddos during Erie’s famous long bot pet named Fijit. – one of Erie’s best summer events. Check out her she does because she's our mom! winters. If it’s sunny and warm, you’re almost I always hear people say, "Erie is the best place Instagram @ohjessica. Guys, just keep the loving coming – oh yeah, and guaranteed to find us outside enjoying the sun- to raise children.” What are your thoughts on the foot rubs! shine and fresh air. this? We truly love Erie. Erie’s a place where Find me out on the town and Here are a few mama blogs that are packed full Least expected place in Erie to have fun with you feel like you know everyone, but you can challenge yourself to get no- of great ideas and visual goodies: www.ohmystars. your babies. Gosh, this is a tough one! For “least” still meet new people every day. There is always ticed by the Erie Reader! To me, www.paintthemoon.net, www.thepioneer- expected: Target, maybe?! [she says, laughing] For something for us to do. I’ve always said Erie has follow this story or comment, woman.com, and www.meaningfulmama.com. the more “typical,” I definitely have to say the at least one of everything, which is unlike a lot of scan the QR code or go to Who? Jessica Hunter with babes Audrey and Peninsula. We try to have fun everywhere we go. other places in America. http://erirdr.com/d9o25

May 1, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 17 LGBT Voices: Marriage Equality: A More Perfect Union

were overturned. Likewise, my hope is that the By: Rich McCarty Supreme Court will finally ensure the unifor- mity of legal marriage rights (throughout all the states, 31 of which ban same-sex marriage—and arch 26 and 27, 2013 were im- in other states, like Pennsylvania, it would grant portant days for the LGBT com- legal rights where none are currently unavail- munity. The Supreme Court of able). The reasoning: marriage equality is about the United States heard oral argu- protecting personal liberty and equal protection ments for two major cases about same-sex mar- under the law—principles that are deeply part of Mriage. On Tuesday, March 26, the Supreme Court the great American experiment to form “a more heard the case to overturn Proposition 8 (or Prop perfect Union.” 8)—the California voters’ ban on same-sex mar- But these are not just matters for lawyers and lars for property already shared—because in the when they are planning on having children, or if riage, a ban which took away existing legal mar- upper officers of government. The status quo of eyes of the government, a same-sex couple might they are able to do so. No heterosexual couple is riage rights in California. On Wednesday, March “marriage inequality” for LGBT people, here as well be strangers, or roommates. asked by the law if they think that marriage is a 27, the Supreme Court heard the case to render in Erie, is a local concern. Namely, same-sex In fact, according to the General Accounting sacrament or divinely ordered. No heterosexual article three of the federal Defense of Marriage couples (like my partner and I) are denied the Office of the United States, “marriage inequality” couple is asked by the law what the Bible says Act (DOMA) unconstitutional—a section of the legal right to walk into the Courthouse on Sixth means that same-sex couples are denied 1,110 about marriage – nor from the Qur’an, nor from law that forbids federal recognition of same-sex Street to apply for a marriage license and receive federal benefits that straight married couples the Book of Mormon, nor any other sacred text. legal marriages. its benefits. receive. “Marriage inequality” also means that No heterosexual couple is asked if they will use We won’t know how the Supreme Court will “Marriage inequality” means that same-sex LGBT couples in Erie are not allowed the hun- contraception, or what kinds of sexual activities rule on marriage equality until sometime in June, couples in Erie have to work through lawyers to dreds of state benefits that the Commonwealth they will engage in, when legally married. which—coincidentally, or ironically, depending on draft a stack of legal documents to cover everyday of Pennsylvania enumerates. All a heterosexual couple is asked, by the law, the verdict—is the annual month-long celebra- protections like property-ownership, inheritance, It is important for us to recognize, then, that is to show identification as proof that they are of tion of “Gay Pride” world-wide. Many of us in child custody, insurance coverage, visitation “civil marriage” is a matter of legal “rights.” The sound age. They then fill out appropriate forms the LGBT community want the Supreme Court rights, and/or tax benefits. For example, when call for marriage equality is about access to those and pay $45 for the marriage license. A few days to make a sweeping ruling in favor of equal- same-sex couples leave property to one another “rights.” It should not be confused with marriage later, they may request a justice of the peace, or a ity, as it did in 1967 with Loving vs. Georgia. after death, the surviving partner has to pay (as it “rites” defined by religious communities. Indeed, virtual notary of the state – like a clergyperson In that case, state bans on interracial marriages has happened in Erie) tens of thousands of dol- as a clergyperson, I know this distinction well. or a ship’s captain – to sign the document. Once As a pastor, I am free to deny anyone the re- the signed license is deposited back at the Erie ligious “rite” of marriage. In fact, I’m quite sure Courthouse, the couple will receive notification that we could find at least a few heterosexual within a week that Pennsylvania now recognizes them as a new legal entity, with all the “rights” entailed. It is important for us to And yet, when same-sex couples ask for civil marriage “rights,” we are often scrutinized by recognize, then, that “civil religious or “moral” standards, not civil ones. For marriage” is a matter of legal example, we are dismissed because we cannot biologically generate a child together—and yet, “rights.” The call for marriage that is not something required of civil marriage. equality is about access to Or, we are condemned on the basis of what we those “rights.” It should not be do in the bedroom, as a matter of personal inti- mate expression—and yet straight people are free confused with marriage “rites” to pursue any kind of fetish or kink. defined by religious communities. The list, of course, goes on. The point is that we LGBT people are treated remarkably “unequal” Indeed, as a clergyperson, I under the law. know this distinction well. Even so, I trust that we are a people (LGBT and straight) who can repair this inequality. But it will take the courage and conviction of all of couples in Erie who have been denied marriage us, especially straight allies, in order to arrive at “rites” by a priest or a pastor. the day when marriage equality is the law of the But that has not stopped the same heterosexual land. That will happen. And when it does, I trust couple from going to the courthouse and get- that history will remember us overcoming such ting legally married. And if the priest or pastor inequality as one part of the great American ex- tried to forbid a legal marriage of heterosexual periment, to make a more perfect Union. adults on religious grounds (e.g., because they use contraception, or they don’t believe in the Rich McCarty holds a Ph.D. in Religious Studies, “sacrament” of marriage), we’d hardly consider specializing in sexual ethics. McCarty works in those religious concerns a valid reason to deny Erie as a professor, serves the community as an or- the couple legal marriage. dained minister, and proudly identifies as a member To that end, we all already know – quite well of the LGBT community. You – that religious perspectives on marriage “rites” can contact him at rMcCarty@ have no bearing on access to legal marriage ErieReader.com. To follow this “rights.” That’s not a slippery slope, it’s the law. story or comment, scan the QR What is more, no heterosexual couple who code or go to http://erirdr.com/ steps foot into the Erie Courthouse will be asked ii3im 18 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com May 1, 2013 You Ought to Know: Chuck Scalise

By: Rebecca Styn The organization then did some grant writing and fundraising and started purchasing debili- lways impeccably dressed and often tated housing, rehabilitating those properties and donning his signature bowtie, this offered them for rent. “That’s how they got in local denizen is, in his own right, a the rental business,” he continues. “My parents community asset. From his dedica- were one of the couples that were involved in the tion to the organization in which he serves, to group. My mother was a good writer so she did theA friendships and connections he’s helped oth- a lot of the grant writing and got some funding ers establish over the years, to the vast amount and hired an executive director to carry it out.” of community service he dedicates much of his Although he didn’t originally plan to be part livelihood to – Chuck Scalise has been and will of the endeavor, Chuck would eventually get in- continue to be an integral part of the Erie Com- volved in the business. Initially, he had hopes of munity. being in music education. A gentleman who has been an endearing part “I remember my dad telling me that one day he of my life for many years as both a colleague and wanted me to take over for him in the business. a friend, Chuck is one of those rare individuals But that was the farthest thing from my mind. Contributed Photo that knows the delicate balance of being creative, When I was young, all of us kids took piano les- forthcoming, and business savvy throughout his sons at the insistence of my mother. But I wasn’t work. I sat down with the once music major- the best student,” he adds, laughing. “So when I Chuck Scalise currently serves as the president turned successful businessman that serves at the was in eighth grade, I decided that I really want- and CEO of HANDS in Erie. forefront of an organization with a multi-million ed to learn a band or orchestra instrument.” dollar budget at the Erie Club last week, on what Markham’s Music store, which used to be lo- “Some of those we house may have a mental But for Chuck, things always find a way back was a snowy evening in April – yes, you read that cated in downtown Erie, sent fliers to the schools illness but also have a high IQ and a gift in art or to his work. right – to talk a little about his life and his work. offering an introductory program in which you music that’s highly developed. Having this back- “I really enjoy being part of a second generation Although he’s rather well known and admired could rent an instrument and take lessons for the ground helps me have an advantage in under- that is part of this organization. Both my parents in the community, he’s quite humble when it summer. It was one of more than a dozen music standing the importance of the arts in the total – Charlie and Kathy – never had the opportunity comes to talking about himself. And each time I stores that operated in Erie in the 1970s. Today, development of the person.” to go to college, but they were both very brilliant tried to change the direction of the conversation, we only have a handful left in the city. His creative background also applies to the and were truly concerned with the welfare of oth- it always turned away from him and back to the “So, I chose the flute.” As for his reasons he work he puts in when helping to design the ers – so they took their talents and skills and ap- organization that he loves and creates his entire picked up this instrument? “Well, it is relatively buildings they develop for potential residents. plied them where they found a need.” livelihood around: the Housing and Neighbor- small and easy to carry.” He adds comically, “And “When creating our new apartment homes or When started, HANDS had an operating bud- hood Development Service, better known as partly because I was probably a little lazy. I mean, houses, we focus a lot on the curb appeal and the get of under $100,000. Today, their combined HANDS. I really didn’t want to have to carry around a overall appearance. Little things like awnings budget is around $7 million. “The first year or “I always like to talk a little about the history double bass.” I laugh. I appreciate the sentiment aren’t an expensive addition, but it helps improve two, we operated strictly with volunteers. Over of HANDS,” he tells me, as he settles into the given the fact that I play the piano and know the the aesthetics. Many remark that aside from the the years, we’ve developed over 1,000 apartment leather sofa in the pub room. “The organization difficulty in even transporting a keyboard around. quality, soundness, and efficiency we put in, we homes and houses. I started as a property man- was founded in 1965 to help low-income families Though I learn he had quite a natural talent for pay a little more attention to the details, and ager and was deputy director under my dad until purchase homes.” it – he went on to play with the Jr. Philharmonic that’s worked well for us – it really gives a wow I was appointed executive director in 1986.” In its inception, HANDS was an organization as first flute, and after he graduated from high factor. Plus, it’s improving our city.” In too many organizations today, many leaders’ dedicated to helping the community with hous- school, he went to Edinboro University of Penn- Chuck is also very proud of the city from which business acumen lacks a creative leadership com- ing needs. The group was initially comprised of sylvania to major in music education. he comes and in which lives. “I tell people all ponent. This isn’t the case with Chuck. He knows religiously motivated volunteers, including his It was halfway through college when Chuck the time where I’m from and that I’m an Erie- the strategic benefits in the left-brain, right-brain parents, who determined that not everybody realized he didn’t have the same passion he once ite born and raised. In my work, I have to travel approach to business – which has not only helped could be a homeowner because of some impedi- did and started to think that, perhaps, he was in- around different parts of the state, and Icon- the success of his own career, but the success of ments. “It started at what was St. Andrews at the terested in the business. stantly try to promote it the best I can.” the organization overall. time, but folks from St. Peters, St. Georges, First “When I was on break from school, I would Aside from all he does in work, he’s also actively Over the years, his passion for helping others Methodist, First Presbyterian, and several other work at the office and fill in for people when they involved in a variety of different charitable orga- has come to the forefront of those who know and churches wanted to get involved,” Chuck ex- were on vacation or sick,” he explains. “I started by nizations. When I ask him to tell me about these love him. As of today, the group has developed plains. doing clerical work and other duties along those organizations, he opens by telling me he’s on the four-dozen housing developments resulting in Today, HANDS is a private not-for-profit or- lines, and I realized that I actually really enjoyed Erie Club entertainment committee. I laugh be- the production of more than 1,000 units of af- ganization that is committed to making stronger the business.” At that point he would switch his cause this isn’t exactly what I’m looking for and fordable housing in nine counties across North- and more vibrant neighborhoods in partnership major. “I ultimately received a degree in econom- he knows this, but it’s one of the qualities I love western Pennsylvania. with the communities it serves through the de- ics and business with a minor in music.” about him – his sarcasm. But he does offer a little As HANDS move forward, the group will con- velopment and management of quality affordable Even though he didn’t finish with a degree in more insight. tinue to grow and expand its offerings and con- housing. music, this combination of right brain, left brain Chuck also serves on a state advocacy organi- tinue to take an innovative approach to identify- In the beginning, volunteers would start coun- would help Chuck ultimately apply more creativ- zation – the Housing Alliance of Pennsylvania, ing and addressing the needs of its community. seling families to help give them the confidence, ity into his professional world. where he chaired a statewide housing meeting And the way I see it, the future of the organiza- skills, and tools they needed to become a hom- “The music and arts background allows me to that over 900 people attended last year. In addi- tion is in great... hands. eowner. However, after some time working with have a higher degree of sensitivity towards the tion, he serves as president of a trade association these individuals, the folks behind HANDS whole person. A lot of our residents have dabbled that represents property owners and management Rebecca Styn can be contacted began to realize that some just didn’t want to be- in the arts to some degree and when we do our companies that work with HUD and affordable at [email protected], and come or couldn’t become homeowners. building renovations, we try a little harder to ac- housing, and he’s worked with several other non- you can follow her on Twitter “Moreover though, even if they couldn’t pur- commodate a budding artist.” profits including, most recently, Erie Day School @rStyn. To follow this story or chase a home, we realized we still needed to im- It also helps him better understand individuals where he joined the board of trustees to volunteer comment, scan the QR code or prove their housing,” Chuck adds. with disabilities. on the buildings and grounds committee. go to http://erirdr.com/6otqc May 1, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 19 [Cont. from 11] “They filled a niche that I feel has been missing for a while in this community.” So, now that Dramashop has successfully caught the attention of the Erie community in just two seasons, where do they go from here? Will they incorporate more musicals once they get “[title of show]” under their collective belt? Will they ever settle down and pump up the size of their seasons? Will they get to a point where they feel like they’ve made it? “For them, that would be kind of a questionable moment,” Shawn says of Dramashop hitting the “big-time.” “If we ever got it, I would seriously question a) our taste and b) our complacency. The other thing with the folks involved with Dramashop is that they are always striving to do what they do better. Wherever the bar is, they want to keep raising it and pushing it up. They don’t want to sit back and relax, that’s not part of the psyche of this group.” The Dramashop crew echoes their acting Yoda’s sentiments. “I think we’re sitting pretty much where we wanted to be at the outset,” Jess says. “I mean, there’s always room for growth, especially artistically, but I think the scope of the seasons and the kind of things we’re trying to do is pretty true to what the goal is.” Instead, they’ll continue to keep on with their regularly scheduled alternative programming, providing the town with seasons full of contem- Zach Flock, pictured right, interrogates Michael Haas in Martin McDonagh's "The Pillowman." porary commentary. They’re even open to having local playwrights send their creations to them, the Dramashop crew has done something that can find your niche and find your gap and fill it Alex Bieler can be contacted at potentially providing the community with an- few others succeed at: they created their own with your theater, and that’s exactly what they’re [email protected], and other platform to partake in the theater company. creative outlet. doing,” Shawn says. you can follow him on Twitter Yes, they would love to see more people come and “I’ve always said you can step into show busi- The Dramashop crew doesn’t need to ask @Catch20Q. To follow this sto- audition and attend their shows, perhaps getting ness, you can go audition and let somebody else whether this is their scene; they’re running the ry or comment, scan the QR code their name out in the community, but ultimately determine your future and your direction, or you show, and we’re all welcome to attend. or go to http://erirdr.com/xgsba

20 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com May 1, 2013 an incredible set of coincidences that placed Hardwick in Erie. He is incredibly talented and positive in the realm of new media, something The Nerdist Comes to Erie we all can take note of regardless of beginning podcasts because of him. A lot of people like to give Erie a bad rap – the weather alone has that Comedian and Podcast Hero Chris Hardwick Joins SNL Star covered – but it goes to show that even in our small city you can still rub shoulders with those Seth Meyers for an Evening at Penn State Behrend whom you admire and have some of that positiv- ity rub off on you. By: John Lindvay John Lindvay can be contact- ed at jLindvay@ErieReader. eth Meyers and Chris Hardwick com, and you can follow him both rolled into the Penn State on Twitter @FightStrife. To Erie, The Behrend College’s follow this story or comment, Junker Center on a typical and scan the QR code or go to bitterly cold “Erie-in-Spring” night a http://erirdr.com/jgotk Sfew Fridays ago. “Seriously, it was 80 degrees yesterday,” I told them during the meet-and-greet after the show. I felt compelled to apologize to them on behalf of all of Erie for the miserable weather that we’ve grown accustomed to. For many in attendance that evening, the draw to the Junker Center was the chance to see Seth Meyers of Saturday Night Live fame perform. For me, how- ever, it was the chance to see Hardwick. Hardwick is known originally for his hosting of MTV’s “Singled-Out.” Or perhaps you may recognize Hardwick from AMC’s “The Talking Dead,” where he hosts a panel of celebrities to discuss episodes of “The Walking Dead.” But if you are like me and dabble on the Inter- nets, you know him from “The Nerdist,” his wildly entertaining and incredibly inspiring podcast. Uncle Shoggoth Hardwick’s opening act was exactly what one could hope for, as he eased the Chris Hardwick, comedian and crowd into the proper mindset with his host of "The Nerdist" podcast. opening bit: a dance tutorial that in all actuality was about deflecting unwanted phalluses away. His style of humor, be it from participants dish out. his standup or his podcast, is sharing seemingly But possibly more incredible is how unbeliev- innocent and adorable stories, but then leading ably positive he is at all times. You can’t help the audience to an angle of observation that is but smile and go in for the complimentary hug equally awkward, endearing, and, well, hilarious. he offers at the end of each joke at an audience And that was just the start. Hardwick followed member’s expense. up with a tale about his girlfriend and the pur- Yet the reason I am more interesting in Hard- chase of a Kigurumi suit. Allow me to explain: wick – and braved the chilly, wet “spring” weath- a Kigurumi suit is a Japanese onesie for adults er to see him in person – is very simple. He is made to look like small animals. Have you ever among one of the reasons why I started my own wanted to be enveloped with fleece while simul- podcast and came to write for the Reader. His taneously looking like a red panda, blue fox, or a podcast, “The Nerdist,” drew me into this realm, purple wolf? Then Kigurumi suit is for you. And because I love talking to people and finding out, so is Hardwick’s sense of humor. as Hardwick puts it, “hows and whys” of a thing. Given Hardwick’s stage presence, I applaud If you haven’t heard his podcast I recommend whoever was assigned the spot light that evening. looking up the episode where he talks with Mel Hardwick was at times pacing across the stage, Brooks. The outpour of anecdotes and industry moving up and down the rows of audience mem- knowledge was amazing, as Brooks explained to bers, and even sitting down in the middle of the Hardwick the difficulties of pitching movies, and crowd near the end of the show. His enthusiasm listening to Brooks’ own interest in new media was contagious, as audience members gleefully is fascinating – something Hardwick captures interacted with him as he zipped up and down quite well in his interview, as he draws out these the aisles, awaiting the chance to hear the come- incredible stories and thoughts from talented dian’s take on their answers or occupation. and notable people. It is something to aspire to This comes as no surprise. Anyone who has for all interviewers, be it work in podcasts, jour- listened or seen him before knows he thrives on nalism, or comedy. interaction with others – and his Erie show was It is rare that we are given the opportunity to no exception. Hardwick’s generally able to find meet one of our inspirations; rarer still is the that endearing and awkward humor from his chance to meet them in our own backyards. own standup in the small nibbles of information While not necessarily a backyard per-se, it was May 1, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 21 lenge, give the ol’ Double- Vegetarian Triple Bypass, which packs on three all-beef patties, Whole Foods Café Offer- ham, salami, pepperoni, ing a wide variety of vegetar- capicola, provolone, and ian staples, including wraps, American cheese all on one sandwiches, soups, pizza, ERIE’S EATS hoagie roll, a try. and seasonal specialties. 24 N. Park Row // 455.1072 1341 W. 26th St. // 456-0282 up some of Erie’s more // 734.3400 French Japanese won’t break the bank but American Fusion unique breakfast and lunch will definitely stretch your Suds and Grub Bertrand’s Bisttro Sushi and Asian Cuisine Wings Avanti’s If you’ve only options. Their breakfast Brewpub A belt. U Pick 6 Tap House Great eaten breakfast at Avanti’s, burrito is a must-try, but menu featuring local meats Fresh sushi and sashimi Buffalo Wild Wings Brewerie Erie’s only brew- and vegetables and organ- steal the spotlight of this 2709 W. 12th St. // 835.2290 beer meets great food at the you are in for a big surprise. be sure to check in for fresh and 4236 Peach St. // daily specials. on-premise pub and eatery, ic and Kosher ingredients show but their support- corner of Fourth and State Fourteen original sauces and Every Thursday, Friday, and 860.8187 and 4459 Buffalo loads of televisions make Saturday night, this daytime the Brewerie is on a mission when possible. The crepes ing cast shouldn’t go unno- Rd. // 898.1531 streets. From gourmet flat- 2605 Washington Ave. // to, “Revitalize Downtown and award-winning wine ticed. The Kim Chi is a breads to pizza muffins, BWW a great place to meet diner changes over to a Moe’s With friendly staff 452.2500 Erie One Pint at a Time.” selection are more than great place to start and any there’s plenty of great grub friends for the big game. fine dining establishment. Jo’s Brooklyn Bagels A serving up fresh, made-to- Full bar menu available. Check back often since enough to encourage a trip of the noodle choices make to pair with the endless flow walk through the door says 123 W. 14th St. // 454.2200 order southwest fare, Moe’s of over 20 microbrews on the menu changes weekly. to France via downtown for good choices to contin- Interchange Road it all. Well, at least it’s speak- is a great place for quality, tap. And with helpful serv- BYOB Erie. ue on. With veggie-friendly on-the-go Mexican food. (Across from Milcreek Mall) ing to your noise. Inhale Carribean options and a staff happy to ers who know their beer, 18 N. Park Row // 871.6477 868.9464 1662 W. 8th St. // 456.3096 deeply and breathe in those 2052 Edinboro Rd. this is a great place to come Pineapple Eddie South- serve you, Sushi and Asian Odis 12 aromas. Fresh bagels and (Outside Millcreek Mall) to try the beers you’ve never Award-winning Summer House Café With ern regional cuisine served Gastropubs Cuisine is a must. wings and affordable sit- an ever-changing menu and coffee. What’s not to love 459.2121 had but have always want- about that combination? A up with a bit of caribbean 1014 State St. //455.0596 down dining. Odis 12 lots of fresh baked good- flair. Featuring savory dish- Jeckyl & Hydes - Just like ed to. little piece of Brooklyn right Aoyama Think it’s hard Middle Eastern features over 100 differ- ies, this local favorite serves here in Erie. es like Creole shrimp and the title characters—wait, 333 State St. // 520.5419 ent flavors, including the breakfast and lunch daily andouille sausage over grits, character—this gastropub to find a daily sushi bar Casablanca From tradi- Six Pack House of Beer crowd-favorite “ugly cous- and stays open for dinner 833 W. 38th St. // 520.6246 seared catfish served with seems bent on being two in Erie? Find your way to Aoyama for the hibachi tional to modern reci- With an ever-changing line- in.” Thursday, Friday, and Satur- Peggy’s Restaurant A rice and beans and fresh things at once—and that’s pes, from strictly vegetari- up of brews on tap and cool- day. BYOB sauteed vegetables, and a good thing. While the experience combined with 664 W. 26th St. // 452.6347 landmark in the Liberty an extensive sashimi and an meals to meals centered er wall of six-packs to go, Plaza for a few decades now, grilled Angus Rib Eye steak. seating area is small, which around a choice selection Greengarden Tavern 2605 Washington Ave. // sushi menu. You’ll have the Six Pack also serves up some Classic corner bar atmo- 452.2500 Peggy’s serves up quick, Deserts include grilled makes for a cozy experience, of fresh meat, Casablan- cheap eats to boot. pound cake served w/fresh the tastes are big and bold. choice between hibachi- sphere, great prices, excel- 1201 Kitchen affordable meals and plen- ca Grille looks to provide Featuring glazed pineapple, ice cream style seating and the tradi- 847 Pitt. Ave. // 454.1989 lent wings. Honey-hot Latin/Asian-inspired food, ty of room for conversa- 8 E. 10th St. // 456.0072 tional sit-down dining expe- something for everyone tion. You can sit at the long and rum sauce, and luscious looking for a good Moroc- U Pick 6 Beer Store Off barbecue and cranch are this hip downtown spot lime layer cake. BYOB. rience, so your mood can do standouts. Go Browns! is full of great art, and the counter than spans nearly Irish the choosing for you. Reser- can meal—and the diversi- the downtown beaten path, marble bar is a perfect place the entire restaurant, grab a 1402 W. 10th St. // 454.0700 vations are highly suggested. ty’s a good thing too since U Pick 6 takes pride in its 1543 W. 8th St. // 454.3367 booth upfront, or get a table when it comes to Middle revolving draft beer line- to try their fresh sushi. With Molly Brannigans - Got Park Tavern – Known for a menu that changes every in the back. Chinese a hankering for bangers and 970 Millcreek Mall // East Mediterranean cuisine, up. With some quick eats 868.7999 Casablanca is it. Reserva- and sandwiches sliced up its wings, the Park Tavern four to six weeks, be sure to 3512 Liberty St. // 866.3216 mash? Have no idea what boasts a family-friendly Golden Wok Quality the heck bangers and mash Hibachi From flinging tions are recommended. right in front of you, U check in often. The Breakfast Place Low smoke-free environment. ingredients, affordable pric- is? Head to this authentic shrimp to slinging steak, Pick 6 draws you in for the Try some Herbies or crispy 1201 State St. // 464.8989 prices and big portions-- es, and consistent service Hibachi combines dinner 2174 W. 8th St. // 452.4544 beer and keeps you for the just the way Erie likes it! The Irish gastropub where you Palm Market and Deli Cajuns. Buffalo Cajun is Under the Clock - Locat- make this Chinese restau- can get your fill of Irish- with the show without conversation. also recommended. Cajun eggs are a must-try. rant stand out among the service charges or ticket fees. This authentic Arabic ed in the historic Boston fare and Irish drinks. From 7520 Peach St. // 866.2337 Store, Under the Clock 2340 E. 38th St. // 825.2727 rest. Jameson to Guinness, from If you’re fine with sitting market and eatery offers 4205 E. Lake Road // is reviving the old phrase beside your date instead of delicious, freshly prepared 899.8661 Panos Open late night with 3202 Pitt. Ave. // 836.9657 Shepherd’s Pie to Purcell’s Steakhouse “Let’s meet under the an attentive wait staff who Fish and Chips, Molly across from him or her, opt food and baked goods for clock.” With a “sophisticat- for this straight-off the grill a very reasonable price. The Sweet Treats will never let your coffee Delicatessens Brannigans brings the Irish Sensory 3 Next time you’re ed casual”-style restaurant pub to downtown Erie. without time-to-chill dinner market offers a wide variety mug go empty. Try the at Presque Isle Downs & Mighty Fine Donuts If experience, Under the Clock famous Greek omelet. Teresa’s Italian Deli experience. of exotic food and merchan- Casino, take a break from 506 State St. // 453.7800 dise. you love donuts and are offers lunch and dinner 3000 W. 12th St. // 838.2495 the table games and check menus with something for 1504 W. 38th St. // 866.0517 Teresa’s Deli has been a McGarrey’s Oakwood looking for something staple in Erie for over 60 2702 Parade St. out this bar and grille If off the well-worn path to everyone. The steak salad Café Known for the award- Mediterranean you’re cashing in your chips is a must-try for any self- Sidewalk Cafe Tucked years, and it’s no secret why. winning Reuben, McGar- Dunkin’ Donuts and Krispy away on historic North Now in its third generation, Pizza for fine dining, we bet on Kreme, this local gem is respecting carnivore. Look- rey’s believes in big portions Petra Open since 2004, Park Row, you’ll find one of the Theresa’s staff still makes being satisfied by a fine your destination spot. ing for something lighter? of comfort food served up Petra serves as Erie’s window Papa Joe’s With special- downtown’s popular break- the food fresh every day, steak since Sensory 3 serves Heralded by locals as the Try their seared ahi tuna. hot and fresh. Although to the Eastern Mediterra- ty pizzas ranging from up some of the best cuts in fast and lunch places. following the same scratch Irish in name, McGarrey’s nean. The folks at Petra want “Vegan Demise” to “Chick- best donuts ever 101 Boston Store Place // recipes used since 1949. the area. 454.4700 also dishes out American you to have “a unique culi- en Gorgonzola” and subs 2612 Parade St. // 455.6408 26 N. Park Row // 455.0002 8199 Perry Hwy // 866.8359 3201 Greengarden Blvd. // and Italian cuisine so that nary experience.” And with that go by the names of Romolo Chocolates George’s American With retro decor 864.5322 and 810 E. 38th St. you’re bound to find some- Mediterranean-inspired “Enchanted Eggplant” and Colony Pub & Grille – Tony Stefanelli apprenticed trimmed in red and black, // 459.1145 thing satisfying. items on the menu you’re “Chuck Norris,” Papa Joe’s Multiple fireplaces and three with his family in the choc- lymouth avern George’s is known just as P T An Erie Picasso’s With signature 1624 W. 38th St. // 866.0552 unlikely to find anywhere brings more to the table intimate dining rooms make olate business for nearly 20 institution with great food much for looking like a panini-style sandwiches like else, this is a one of a kind than any commercial pizza the Colony a popular spot years. Where’d that get him? and drink specials every retro diner as it is for the the Lee Roslyn (Twinkie, Italian dining experience. joint. And to boot, they for a romantic dinner. He’s one of only 26 master night of the week. friendly safe and great grub. serve up a mean falafel ham, and cheese) and the 3602 W. Lake Road // confectioners and he’s right They’re famous for their DaVinci (sausage, ravioli, Alto Cucina Chef Pat sandwich—something that’s 2670 W. 8 St. // 838.2162 1109 State St. // 453.6454 mashed potatoes, but don’t 838.7197 here in Erie. So for hand- and provolone), Picasso’s is Rodgers mixes the old- a must. Ricardo’s Opened in 1943 made pieces of chocolate, be Pufferbelly Set in a get stuck on only that. Try a must-try. Great vegetarian world with the exotic. Beau- by two brothers, Ricardo’s decommissioned firehouse, the soups and sandwiches Mexican 3826 W. Ridge Rd. // sure to stop by Romolo’s— options available. tiful décor, with an outdoor 835.3360 serves up some of Erie’s then boast to your out-of- the Pufferbelly is full of arti- on for size too. deck for the summer El Toro Loco With a full finest steaks. Chef Peter Valerio’s town friends about having a facts from Erie’s fire fight- 2060 Interchange Rd. months. bar and the best margaritas More than just West and Cathy Merk- 2614 Glenwood Park Avenue (Outside Millcreek Mall) Pizza, Wings, and Subs! master confectioner in your ing past. // 455.0860 in town, there is something si run one of Erie’s choice 866.1183 3531 W. Lake Road // Local Italian Restaurant & city. 414 French St. // 454.1557 Dominick’s Famous among 835.3900 for everyone. Enjoy a little restaurants that’s known Tickle’s Deli – This popu- Pizzeria that has been serv- 1525 W. 8th St. // 452.1933 Calamari’s Extra-long bar, Erie’s late-night bar patrons taste of Mexico right here in for its hand-cut, grain-fed Colao’s Authentic Italian, ing Erie County for over Pulakos with a large outdoor patio who swear by this place as a lar deli features good pric- downtown Erie. western beef and delicious, George P. Pula- es and big, tasty sandwiches fresh seafood, and a cozy, 17 years. Offering a vari- mouth-watering ribs cooked kos opened his first choco- for those warm summer sure-fire hangover cure. intimate setting. 333 State St. // 454.5626 ety of Homemade Italian nights. including the famous “Big outside year-round. Hearty late shop at 926 State St. in 123 E. 12th St. // 456.6891 Freddy.” Call ahead if you Latino’s With fresh ingre- Dinners, Seafood, Daily 1903. Over a hundred years 2826 Plum St. // 866.9621 Lunch Specials, and Cater- Italian fare with casual feel 1317 State St. // 459.4276 Hyatt’s - Serving up break- can because this downtown dients and a commitment of fine dining make Ricar- later, the fourth-generation- Mi Scuzi Southern Italian to serving up the authentic ing Services. Check out fast and lunch standards for hotspot gets busy at lunch- cuisine with fresh, home- do’s a must. run chocolate shop is still Barbecue years and is a staple in the time. Mexican-cuisine experience, our menus online at www. one of Erie’s favorite plac- made pasta. Latinos is the place to go for valeriospizzeria.com. With 2112 E. Lake Rd // 455.4947 es for a wide selection of West Erie Plaza. 17 W. 4th St. // 455.5718 Three-B Saloon Beer, 2641 Myrtle St. // 454.4533 more than just the average 3 convenient locations to Victor’s –Located inside all things chocolate—and Bacon & Barbeque—the 928 W. Erie Plaza // 456.0102 Gerry’s 8th Street Deli serve you, we’ll have you Amici Ristorante Tex-Mex experience. The the Bel-Aire hotel, Victor’s other delicious snacks too. name says it all. Featur- From the world-class deli With singing...Manga Italiano! Flip Cafe place isn’t flashy, but with offers fine steak and seafood ing slow-cooked brisket, Tired of the to the homemade soups, dinner hours from 5 to 9 2530 Parade St. chain restaurant dishing out p.m. Fridays and Saturdays food this good, it doesn’t 2179 W. 32nd St. // 833- with drink specials every Donut Connection ribs, and other down-home breakfast by the numbers? Gerry’s offers everything and a takeout menu avail- have to be. 2979 and 1803 E. 38th St. night of the week. - Just favorites. If you behave Then try this sweet little you’d expect from a deli. able Monday through Satur- 825-2693 and 724 Powell off the corner of Peach and yourself, you may get a free But with sandwich names 1315 Parade St. // 452.1966 833-8884 // Catering Office// 2800 W. 8 St. // 833.1116 Liberty streets sits a fami- spot tucked away in Edin- day, Amici Ristorante dishes El Canelo With three 866-3193 slice of bacon with your boro. Flip Cafe serves break- like “Cluckmeister,” “Chive out fresh food at affordable ly-owned donut shop that’s beer. Turkey,” “Tongue Fu,” and locations to serve the great- Steel 12 Jonesing for some Thai celebrating its Golden fast and lunch from morn- “Breast of Times” just to prices. From wings to pizza er-Erie area, you’re never Anniversary this year. With 732 W. 4th St. // 451.0007 ing ‘til afternoon, so stop in to fresh perch sandwich- Pittsburgh eats but don’t Khao Thai The only full- name a few, you’re going to more than a 15 minute have four hours to kill on the “best coffee” in town and try any one of the favor- es and more, the menu drive from all the chips and time Thai restaurant in Erie. Breakfast ites, including “Flip Bread.” want to keep going back to has something for every- a roundtrip just for some Luckily, it’s fantastic! Try the and a wide selection of deli- check out all of these one- salsa you can handle served grub? Hit up this Peach- cious hand-cut donuts, this You won’t pay much and one. Call ahead one hour up with sizzling fajitas, drunken noodles for a spicy Summer House Cafe Open you’ll go home happy think- of-a-kind sandwiches. Deli for takeout since food is Street eat for fries on your delight. Vegetarian friend- is a great place for a for a from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. hours run Monday through hand-wrapped enchiladas sandwich and a pizza crust ly. BYOB sweet treat. ing about coming back Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. prepared fresh per order. and burritos, and a whole each day of the week, the again. that can’t be beat. But if yinz 3842 Liberty St. // 864.8702 1518 Walnut St. // 455.0041 lot more. The Super Crab 36 N. Park Row // 454.4069 Summer House Cafe serves 2620 W. 8th St. // 836.8702 are really looking for a chal- 103 Meadville St. Edinboro Quesadilla is a must-try that 22 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com May 1, 2013 May 1, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 23 LIVE RACING

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