CONTENTS: From the Editors The only local voice for Life in a changing and news, arts, and culture. March 1, 2017 Editors-in-Chief: dangerous world Brian Graham & Adam Welsh his year, we’re quickly learning to expect Managing Editor: the unexpected. All bets are off. It was Nick Warren Just a Thought – 5 Copy Editor: T77 degrees in February. In Erie. If you Katie Chriest The spice of life think something is going to be a certain way, Contributing Editors: chances are it won’t. Ben Speggen Life presents new changes around the corner Jim Wertz every day. Some of these things are fun and Contributors: Maitham Basha-Agha Harrisburg Happenings – 6 interesting, and are received by us with open Ed Bernik arms, a welcome reprieve to everyday stresses. Mary Birdsong Concerns abound over Wolf budget Some are the opposite. New changes come, Tracy Geibel Lisa Gensheimer proposal too often, in the form of tragedy. Lives are cut Gregory Greenleaf-Knepp short, forever altering those around them. Dan Schank Tommy Shannon Ryan Smith Ti Sumner New of the Weird – 9 This year, we’re quickly learning Matt Swanseger to expect the unexpected. All bets Bryan Toy Fake banks and barfly thanks Cover Design: are off. Nick Warren Photographers: Maitham Basha-Agha Ryan Smith Over the course of this month, our commu- Brad Triana Clearing the Air – 13 nity has been hit by a startling number of Publisher’s Assistant: Emily Hanisek The dark cloud cast by Erie Coke deaths from heroin overdoses. This horrific Intern: Corporation epidemic is cutting down people in the prime Angie Jeffery of their lives. Creative young people with open 1001 State St. Suite 901 minds and warm hearts, who had so much to Erie, Pa., 16501 give, are dying right before our eyes. So many [email protected] things need to be done to curb this troubling tide. Support treatment centers and encour- The Erie Reader is the local voice for age counseling services. Talk to your friends. news, arts, and culture, and is Erie’s only Reach out and make it known that you’re ea- independent, alternative newspaper. Founded in 2010, the Reader has quickly ger to listen, giving help when needed. become the region’s award-winning Don’t be fooled by appearances. Problems source for arts coverage, a strong cul- can live secretly for years, only to manifest tural compass, and a dynamic resource for news and opinion. With a dedication themselves when it’s too late. to long-form journalism and a commit- As frightening as it is, even the air we breathe ment to provoking thoughtful discus- can pose a threat to our health. Join Katie sion, the Reader tells the stories of the people and places making and shaping Chriest as she lays out the facts about the Erie Erie, while highlighting the events and Coke Corporation. The company, along with issues influencing life in northwestern its nearly identical plant in Tonawanda, New Pennsylvania. The Erie Reader is pub- lished every other week and distributed York, has a documented history of environ- at over 250 high foot-traffic locations in mental degradation. These plants emit ben- NICK WARREN Pennsylvania from North East to Girard zene, a harmful chemical and known carcino- to Edinboro. In addition to appearing in print, Erie Reader adds new content dai- gen. Tracing the history of both the Erie Coke ly at ErieReader.com as well social me- and Tonawanda Coke plants, Chriest connects dia sites. All rights reserved. All content Spotlight on Erie – 21 the dots, shedding light on the dangerous im- © Flagship Multimedia, Inc, 1001 State St., Suite 901, Erie, Pa, 16501. No part of For the first time in a long time, I can be plications that go along with this type of con- this publication may be reproduced tamination. without permission. The opinions of myself Now is the time to change things. Do what our columnists and contributors are their own and do not always reflect that you can to reverse the dark tide of illness and of the editorial board or organization. death. Though at times these problems may Direct sales inquiries to 814.314.9364. seem insurmountable, remember that nothing For editorial inquiries, email contact@ Music Reviews – 29 ErieReader.com. is solved by inaction. Despite the terrible cir- Jesca Hoop, Cloud Nothings, Sinkane, cumstances that life sometimes hands us, we Brenna Bone and Seann Clark must persist and persevere. Help those who need it. If you believe you’re being led down the wrong path, do what you can to change the minds of those in power. Write and call Erie Faces Erie – 30 them. Arm yourself with the knowledge you need, and spread the word. Above all, be safe. A look through photographer Ed Make sure the time we have here is the best Bernik’s lens that it can be, because it’s a precious, wonder- ful thing.

March 1, 2017 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 3 4 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com March 1, 2017 NEWS & VIEWS Just a Thought The spice of life KATIE CHRIEST KATIE

By: Katie Chriest trition to produce the buxom cloves The early sprouts of this year’s garlic, ome call it vampire repellent. that cooks lust after. pushing their way through a bed of straw to reach toward the late-winter light. Some call it the Stinking Rose, Accordingly, garlic planting also in- Sor Russian Penicillin. But if you volves a little Darwinian culling: You tend to vascillate between season- save the biggest bulbs from the last of the sun to beckon them into the ally-affected depression and claw- year’s crop – regardless of how badly light. your-eyes-out cabin fever come early you want them in your soup – so that Once they get the cue, they’re off March (like yours truly), you might your future bulbs will have the best and running. They slough off win- want to call garlic preventive medi- genes. ter’s heavy hibernation like college cine. You head out on a short Novem- students donning flip-flops the sec- Garlic’s health benefits are widely ber day and plunk a bunch of bro- ond the snow melts. recognized, whether cooked or cap- ken-apart bulbs into the soil, clove by In our backyard, they’re now about sulated. But I’ve not yet come across clove. Then, you lightly cover the tops four inches tall. Ahead of schedule, anyone touting its very growth as a of the cloves with soil, mulch the bed but hardy enough to survive whatev- panacea. Maybe it’s time to change with straw or leaves, and wait. er’s left of this season. Come late May that. And wait. And wait. or June, they’ll sprout flowery scapes Garlic growers – or planters of any Temperatures drop, winds blow, that make a killer pesto. By late July, bulbs, really – know the magic of it’ll be time to dig the bulbs for drying those little life-containing papery and curing, first setting aside those bundles that bravely withstand the So you put a tiny little standouts that’ll carry on the lineage coldest of winters and heaviest snow- thing in the ground, and it next fall. falls, only to sprout delightfully come knows what to do. It trusts So you put a tiny little thing in the spring (or, in some cases, February). ground, and it knows what to do. It But garlic is exceptional. Where we in the earth and in life to trusts in the earth and in life to go live, I sow it around Veterans Day. go on, even when you’re on, even when you’re questioning Sometimes in snow boots, sometimes questioning such things, such things, yourself. It harbors no in shorts. This year, I planted just af- yourself. existential angst. It just feeds you, in ter the tumultuous election cycle every sense of the word. that challenged all of us, regardless Admittedly, I’m not always much of of which candidate we supported. frost heaves the ground, snow blan- an optimist by nature. But it’s in na- But when you feel ungrounded, get kets everything. Holidays come and ture that I find that little voice that closer to the ground. And plant some- go, playoffs come and go, New Year’s says, be patient. See the good. And thing in it, if you can. resolutions come and go. Inaugu- know’s that there’s always good to In fall, you prepare the soil, with rations, Oscar nominations, winter see. composted kitchen scraps and shed vacations … and through it all, those leaves you’ve raked up. Garlic is a little cloves hang out, waiting along Katie Chriest can be contacted “heavy feeder,” and needs a lot of nu- with you for the lengthening reach at [email protected].

March 1, 2017 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 5 NEWS & VIEWS Harrisburg Happenings Concerns abound over Wolf budget proposal

all of our chil- services. Of the $8.4 million in state dren deserve. I funding received by GECAC, $6.8 mil- am committed lion was channeled from the Depart- to working with ment of Aging ($4.4 million) and the Senate leaders Department of Human Services ($2.4 to find addition- million). Certainly, we need more in- al supplemental formation about how this vital fund- funding for the ing for important senior citizen and Erie School Dis- family support programs would be trict as part of impacted by the merger of those state budget negotia- agencies. tions. The budget now on the ta- These are just a few of ble represents KEV72 the concerns I have with a significant change by Gov. the governor’s budget By: Sen. Dan Laughlin Wolf from his previous two state proposal. I will study these spending plans, in which he request- issues in depth over the n Tuesday, Feb. 7, Gov. Tom ed substantial increases in the state’s coming weeks and months income tax and sales tax. This year’s Wolf gave his budget address as the Legislature works Obefore a joint session of the proposal instead calls for about $1 General Assembly to provide a broad billion in narrow tax increases, such to develop a spending overview of his proposed $32.3 billion as one on Marcellus Shale extraction, plan that is in the best state budget for Fiscal Year 2017-18, and $2 billion in cuts and savings ini- interests of the people of which begins on July 1. tiatives. Pennsylvania. Overall, the governor’s proposal I join with a majority of my col- represents a $571.5 million (1.8 per- leagues who support efforts to make cent) increase in spending, including government more efficient by relying $200 million more for pre-K through on prudent spending rather than im- The merger could also mean the grade 12 education statewide. While posing broad-based tax increases to closure of state offices that conve- the governor promoted his education balance the state budget. niently provide important services initiatives during his relatively brief That said, I plan to look very close- in our community. The Department budget address, I was disappointed ly at a couple of aspects of the gov- of Health currently operates six re- that he made no special note of sup- ernor’s proposed costs and savings gional Vital Records Offices including port for the Erie School District. initiatives. One initiative that could the Erie Office at 1910 W. 26th Street The governor and state Department have a serious impact here in Erie is to process requests for birth and of Education leaders are certainly the proposed consolidation of the de- death certificates. There is no way at aware of the dire financial issues partments of Aging, Health, Human this point to know if our local office here, and I had hoped that a strong Services, and Drug & Alcohol Pro- would remain open or be rolled into commitment to Erie School District grams. There is no doubt that such another office somewhere else as the students would be part of the budget a move – if handled properly and state consolidates operations under address. thoroughly – could provide true cost the proposed new mega-department. Spreadsheets from the Department savings through the elimination of These are just a few of the concerns of Education show the Erie School duplicative services. I have with the governor’s budget District is in line for a $1.57 million in- But, the problems created by the proposal. I will study these issues in crease in Basic Education Funding (to abrupt and unnecessary closure of depth over the coming weeks and $64.4 million) and a $287,568 increase the state Unemployment Compensa- months as the Legislature works to in Special Education Funding (to near- tion Service Centers and the impact develop a spending plan that is in the ly $10.5 million). The district would that move has had on thousands of best interests of the people of Penn- also receive a $2.6 million Ready to Pennsylvanians makes me a little un- sylvania. Learn Block Grant in FY 2017-18. easy about the proposed merger. I encourage local residents to visit The proposed increases in BEF and I need to know how this merger into my website, senatorlaughlin.com, and SEF are certainly welcome, but I know one massive Department of Health my Facebook page, facebook.com/ the state can and should do more to and Human Services would impact senatorlaughlin/, to keep up-to-date help Erie stabilize its financial base organizations such as the Greater with state government news – includ- and move forward in the future to Erie Community Action Community, ing the state budget – and learn more provide the quality education that especially its Area Agency on Aging about state services and agencies.

6 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com March 1, 2017 March 1, 2017 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 7 8 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com March 1, 2017 NEWS & VIEWS News of the Weird Fake banks and barfly thanks by: Chuck Shepherd of the late Dennis Hanel that it would briefly in play in Killeen, Texas, in Feb- diate objection, noting that such drugs not return Hanel's security deposit ruary, set by Bell County's elected Jus- might only be available by black mar- following his January death because tice of the Peace Claudia Brown. Bail ket -- and questioning whether the U-S-A! U-S-A! Hanel had not given the lease-required was reduced 10 days later to $150,000 government can legally force someone lthough discouraging the marriage "notice" giving up his apartment. (He by a district court judge, prompting to kill himself.) [The Guardian (Lon- Aof children in developing nations had cancer, but died of a heart attack. Brown to acknowledge that she set the don), 2-15-2017] has been U.S. foreign policy for years, Washington state law requires only "$4 billion" to call attention to Texas' a data-collecting watchdog group in that the landlord provide an expla- lack of bail standards, which especially People With Underdeveloped America disclosed in February that 27 nation why it is keeping the depos- punishes indigent arrestees with little Consciences U.S. states have no minimum marriage it.) [Philadelphia Magazine, 2-14-2017] hope of raising even modest amounts ust before Christmas, Tammy ages and estimates that an average [Crosscut Public Media (Seattle), 2-15- when accused of minor crimes. [Fox Strickland, 38, was arrested in Polk of almost 25,000 children age 15 and 2017] News, 2-13-2017] J County, Florida, and charged with under are permitted to marry every stealing 100 toys from a Toys for Tots year ("estimates" because some states Runaway Math Wait, What? collection box. (2) In February, thieves do not keep records by age). Child ohn Haskew, who told investiga- esearchers including Rice Universi- unbolted and stole a PlayStation from marriage is often allowed in the U.S. tors that he was "self-taught on ty biochemist John Olson revealed J R the children's cancer ward at Welling- if parents approve, although no such the banking industry," evidently in a February journal article that one ton Hospital in New Zealand. (3) Ju- exemption is made in foreign policy, thought he might succeed making bo- reason a man avoided anemia even dith Permar, 56, who was found dead, largely to curb developing nations' gus wire transfers to himself from a though he had a gene mutation that stuck in a clothing donation drop-off "family honor" marriages -- which large (unidentified) national bank, in weakened his hemoglobin was be- box in Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania, in often wreck girls' chances for self-ac- the amount of $7 billion. He pleaded cause he has been a tobacco smoker -- February (a result, police said, of try- tualizing. (However, "family honor" is guilty in February in Lakeland, Flori- that the carbon monoxide from smoke ing to "steal" items), had driven to the still, in some states, the basis for allow- da. (He said he thought he "deserved" had been therapeutic. His daughter, box in her Hummer. [Bay News 9 (St. ing U.S. child marriages, such as with the money.) (2) Katherine Kempson, 49, with the same gene mutation, did de- Petersburg), 12-20-2016] [New Zealand "shotgun" weddings.) [Unchained At deciding to pay "cash" for a $1.2 million velop anemia since she never smoked Herald, 2-10-2017] [Philly.com, 2-7-2017] Last via Washington Post, 2-10-2017] home, forged (according to York Coun- (although Olson suggested other ways ty, Pennsylvania, deputies) a "proof of besides smoking to strengthen hemo- Compelling Explanations funds" letter from the Members 1st globin, such as by massive vitamin C). Recent Alarming Headlines credit union. Home sales are, of course, [Rice University via New York Post, reative: (1) Glenn Schloeffel, vice America's Top Fortune Cookie Writ- highly regulated formalities, and sev- 2-16-2017] president of the Central Bucks er Is Quitting Because of Writer's C eral attempted "closings" were halted " school board in a Philadelphia suburb, everal death-penalty states contin- Block" (Time magazine, 2-3-2017). "Vagi- when her money kept not showing up. recommended that science books be ue to be frustrated by whether their nal Pain Helps Exonerate Man Accused One deputy told a reporter, "I'm guess- S viewed skeptically on "climate change" lethal-injection "cocktails" make death of Murder" (Miami Herald, 2-8-2017) ing that she probably didn't think it because teenage "depression" rates so painful as to be unconstitutionally (emergency medical technicians treat- through." [WFTV (Orlando), 2-3-2017] have been increasing. Surely, he said, "cruel," and Arizona's latest "solution," ing his sister corroborated his alibi). [York Daily Record, 2-3-2017] one factor depressing students is read- announced as a Department of Correc- "Dresden Protest Against Anti-Islam ing all that alarming climate-change he highest bail amount ever or- tions protocol, is for the condemned Pegida Group Banned Over Snowball data. (2) Seattle's Real Estate Services Tdered in America -- $4 billion for to supply their own (presumably less Fight Fears" (The Independent (Lon- rental agency has informed the family murder suspect Antonio Willis -- was unpleasant) drugs. (There was imme- don), 1-24-2017) (previously in Dresden,

March 1, 2017 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 9 NEWS & VIEWS

Germany, religious-freedom demon- napolis, North Carolina, in February af- strators chose "tossing snowballs" as ter, police said, they broke into a Rent- appropriate for ridiculing Pegida). a-Center at 2 a.m. and stole a big-screen TV. After loading the set into one car, Phallic News From Overseas they drove off in separate vehicles, but in their haste, smashed into each oth- arlier, He Would Have Been Wor- er in the parking lot. Both men subse- Eshipped: In February, doctors at quently drove the wrong way down Narayana Health City in Bangalore, South Cannon Boulevard, and both India, were successful in a five-hour, then accidentally crashed separately 20-specialist surgery normalizing an into other vehicles, allowing police to infant born with the chromosomal catch up. [WCNC-TV (Charlotte), 2-8- abnormality "polymelia" -- which re- 2017] sulted in four legs and two penises. Doctors praised the parents, from rural Puladinni village, for recognizing the The Passing Parade issue as "medical" and not as "supersti- elson Foyle, 93, is believed to be tion." (2) In February, police in south- NBritain's longest-time patron of ern Bangladesh arrested a family that the same pub (the Dog and Gun in used a fake penis to convince neigh- Salisbury, England), and fellow drink- bors that the family had the powers ers recently bought him an honorary of genies ("djinns"). The villagers had "lordship" title to mark his 80th year known the family had a girl, but over- on the establishment's barstools. (2) night the genies had "changed" her An art collective in a Los Angeles store- into a "boy," thus frightening the villag- front re-created (for a two-week run in ers into making offerings to the family. January) a retro video store that fea- [CNN, 2-10-2017] [Agence France-Presse tured only boxed VHS editions of the via Philippine Daily Inquirer, 2-8-2017 ] movie "Jerry Maguire" -- about 14,000 copies. [NPR, 2-14-2017] [LA Weekly, 1-14- Least Competent Criminals 2017] illie Anthony, 20, and Jamarqua WDavis, 16, were arrested in Kan- COPYRIGHT 2017 CHUCK SHEPHERD

10 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com March 1, 2017 March 1, 2017 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 11

FEATURE Clearing the Air The dark cloud cast by Erie Coke Corporation

Erie Coke Corporation sits in full view from both Presque Isle’s North Pier and the bayfront’s South Pier along Port Access Road.

America’s Schools.” The widely ac- claimed, award-winning report singled out Wayne Middle School in Erie as one where benzene levels were especially high. But a follow-up report released in February of 2009 by the Pennsylvania DEP concluded, “From their single sam- ple, USA TODAY ranked Wayne Middle School as one which may have unac- ceptable health risks to the student. However sampling by DEP for the stat- ed pollutants of concern (benzene and naphthalene) does not indicate an un- acceptable risk to the students attend- ing the school.” “Acceptable risk” is somewhat encour- aging. Unfortunately, this study was NICK WARREN performed before Erie Coke’s more re- cent benzene emissions violations. By: Katie Chriest of them – in quick succession. So soci- A. Saffrin, has taken over. Also unfortunately, the school is not etal symptoms that ought to have our Then there’s Mark Kamholz. As the the only place where health concerns ay you have a stomachache. undivided attention instead get pro- Erie Times-News pointed out last Oc- are well-founded. In June of 2010, Mark You’ve tried over-the-counter cessed piecemeal, like so many stom- tober, “Tonawanda Coke was convicted Sommer of The Buffalo News visited Sstuff, but nothing’s working. You achaches. in criminal court in 2013 of 14 environ- Queen Street, near Erie Coke. go to your doctor. She asks a few ques- This is a story about Erie Coke Cor- mental crimes, among them the emis- “Nine,” Sommer wrote. “That’s the tions about your diet or your current poration (ECC), at the foot of East Ave- sion of benzene. Its environmental number of people who have contracted circumstances. She recommends a nue. Except that it’s also a story about manager, Mark Kamholz, formerly the cancer on Queen Street, a single block change or prescribes something – tells Tonawanda Coke Corporation (TCC). longtime environmental manager at of 15 houses located near the Erie Coke you to check back if things don’t im- The connections outweigh the differ- the Erie plant as well, was convicted of plant. prove. Probably no big deal. ences. hiding problems from an inspector and “The tally by longtime residents Steve Now say you have a good doctor. She Both sites have released more car- sentenced to a year in prison.” [empha- and Chris Narusewicz includes their remembers that you had comparable cinogenic benzene into their surround- sis added] 19-year-old daughter, Sara, diagnosed complaints a few years ago. ing communities than is deemed legal And, of course, both companies are last year with papillary thyroid cancer; Now say you have a great doctor. or safe. For years. Both sites have bat- named for the cities that house them. Steve’s father, who died from prostate Not only does she recall your previous tled with federal and state environ- Former Tonawanda Supervisor An- cancer; and a brother who succumbed symptoms; she also remembers read- mental agencies. For years. thony F. Caruana said TCC “has given to colon cancer. ing about others who were similarly And both communities have strug- a ‘black eye’ to the community and “The high incidence of cancer and suffering. Something’s not right, and gled to connect the dots. caused it to lose potential new busi- other health issues near the coke she knows it. She does some research nesses,” according to The Buffalo News. foundry is one of many similarities SISTER SITES – not jumping to any conclusions, but It’s worth noting here that stories of between this plant and Tonawanda also not wanting to dismiss any possi- Their websites are nearly identical, pollution and corporate egregiousness Coke,” Sommer explained. bilities. though Tonawanda’s says “Quality are regularly picked up by the Associ- Meanwhile, frustrated by unreliable Wanting, in other words, to connect through Consistency,” and Erie’s reads ated Press, then circulated in multiple results from outside sources, Tonawa- the dots. “Quality through Consistency and out-of-town news outlets. In other nda residents took testing matters into This isn’t really a story about a stom- Commitment.” Lucky us. words, “Erie Coke Corp.” can become their own hands. [Please see “Tonawan- achache. Then again, a medical meta- Both sites commenced coke opera- synonymous with “Erie,” giving pause da’s Citizen Scientists” on page 18.] phor is hardly a stretch. tions around a century ago. J.D. Crane to those who might otherwise consid- LAWMAKERS RESPOND TO “FLA- It is, however, a story about con- purchased the Tonawanda plant in er vacationing, relocating, or setting up GRANT DISREGARD” necting the dots. We humans tend to 1978, beginning its run as Tonawanda shop here. be a little myopic; to be captivated by Coke Corp. J.D. Crane purchased the On Oct. 14, 2009, Sen. Charles Schumer IN OTHER NEWS problems one at a time, and miss how Erie plant in 1987, beginning its run as (D-N.Y.) wrote a letter to J.D. Crane, im- they’re related. Erie Coke Corp. In 2008, USA TODAY released “The ploring him to meet with Tonawanda We swallow news snippets – volumes Crane died in 2014. His grandson, Paul Smokestack Effect: Toxic Air and community members, who’d reached

March 1, 2017 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 13 FEATURE

Located on the main vein of the which a person or company eastern bayfront shoreline, Erie agrees to take specific actions Coke Corporation sits adjacent to schools, businesses, and without admitting fault or populated neighborhoods. guilt for the situation that led to the lawsuit.” Really, we ought to be quite efitted from donations of ECC- familiar with consent decrees, and TCC-generated money. since Erie Coke just signed an- So we must wonder how that other one a few months ago. influences their response to Last September, Erie Coke corporate violations. was sued again by the EPA. As the ETN reported, “The suit SHUT DOWN … ALMOST claims Erie Coke since Novem- In May of 2010, the DEP “or- ber 2010 ‘failed to minimize dered Erie Coke Corp. and leaks of benzene’ by failing ‘to company CEO J.D. Crane to identify and seal’ several piec- cease operations within 72 es of equipment. The plant hours after [the DEP] revoked also has ‘continuously failed the facility’s air permit for vi- to identify potential sources olating state environmental of benzene emissions,’ accord- laws,” according to GANT- ing to the suit. The claims are News, a CNN affiliate. based on environmental in- DEP’s northwest regional di- spections at the plant in No- rector, Kelly Burch, is quoted vember 2010 and March 2015.” by GANTNews: “Since 2006, In December, a federal judge out to Crane to no avail. done and those residents who … Investment in clean energy DEP has inspected Erie Coke’s approved a new consent de- “Residents of the Town are affected must be listened creates seven times the num- facility numerous times. cree requiring Erie Coke to of Tonawanda and the sur- to.” ber of jobs as investment in Those inspections have re- pay a $500,000 penalty and im- rounding area are experienc- In June of 2010, Sen. Bob Ca- fossil fuels, and yet Sen. Spec- vealed a pattern of defiant be- prove comprehensive benzene ing numerous health prob- sey (D-Pa.) “requested that the ter’s lack of support is a major havior and complete disregard emission monitoring. lems potentially resulting Department of Health and Hu- reason the landmark green for the health of our citizens Consent decrees require no from toxic benzene and other man Services’ Agency for Toxic jobs bill is bogged down in the and the quality of our natu- admission of fault or guilt. emissions from Tonawanda Substances and Disease Regis- Senate while millions of Amer- ral resources. Our inspections Therefore, in some ways, they Coke,” Schumer wrote. “Seri- try (ATSDR) conduct a public icans are out of work.” indicate that the coke ovens can be even more outraging to ous diseases are occurring at health assessment to deter- Coincidentally (or not), J.D. at the facility are cracked and the communities affected by irregularly high rates among mine if emissions from the Crane gave campaign contri- emitting pollutants.” them. Tonawanda residents.” Erie Coke Corp.’s coke-making butions twice to Arlen Specter, That 2010 DEP order re- On Oct. 9, 2016, the ETN made Then Schumer brought up facility has or will cause harm according to LittleSis.org, a placed two other orders with- the Erie Coke lawsuit the sub- Erie Coke: “[ECC] is currently to the health of people living nonprofit watchdog database in the previous two years, ject of their impassioned “Our being sued by the Environ- near the facility,” according to “detailing the connections be- both of which were appealed View”: mental Protection Agency and Casey’s blog. “Many Erie res- tween powerful people and by Erie Coke, and neither of This latest complaint raises the Pennsylvania DEP. This idents believe they have suf- organizations,” and tallying which had yet resulted in full questions about enforcement action was taken after the fered a wide range of health corporate influence on poli- compliance or payment of an in Erie. Why did it take regu- Pennsylvania DEP found that problems, ranging from head- ticians. Among other dona- assessed “$6.1 million penalty lators so long to discover that smoke from the ovens at the aches to cancer, due to the tions, Crane also contributed for emissions violations.” Erie Coke had not been identi- Erie Coke plant exceeded fed- plant’s emissions.” $20,500 between 2004-7 to the A reprieve was granted fying and reporting potential eral pollution limits at least A few months before, on National Republican Congres- through June 18, 2010 by the sources of benzene as far back 31 times since May 7, 2008. In March 10, 2010, the Erie Coke sional Committee, “devoted to state Environmental Hear- as 1991? addition, Erie Coke Corpora- plant had released an enor- maintaining and increasing ing Board. Shortly before the Erie Coke has a right to due tion was recently fined over $6 mous noxious cloud (there’s a the 232-member Republican deadline, ECC signed a con- process. The public is also due million by the Pennsylvania troubling video on YouTube). majority in the U.S. House of sent decree, agreeing to pay a more thorough explanation DEP for ‘flagrant disregard’ of Days later, then-Senate candi- Representatives.” $6 million in fines and to bring of the information contained environmental laws.” date Joe Sestak issued a state- This is not to say that Demo- the plant into compliance in the most recent complaint. Anticipating the usual con- ment commending then-City crats are interested in clean air with state and federal clean More useful than fines would versation-ending jobs argu- Council President Jim Thomp- and Republicans are not. For air regulations. Operations be health-impact studies like ment, Schumer concluded: “I son for calling for an investiga- instance, both the EPA and the never halted. those demanded in response to have long championed manu- tion. Clean Air Act came into being Tonawanda Coke’s pollution. CONSENT DECREES facturing in western New York Sestak chastised Sen. Arlen under President Nixon, who Erie residents have a right to and I value Tonawanda Coke’s Specter for “vot[ing] to gut the also sought to halt dumping It’s worth pausing here to know if working at or living importance as an employer in Clear Air Act, allowing such polluted dredge waste into the define a consent decree, which near Erie Coke has placed their the region, but it is clear that out-of-date plants to continue Great Lakes. thefreedictionary.com does health in danger simply by to protect public and work- pumping pollution into the air Nevertheless, Republican quite plainly: “A settlement of breathing. er health something must be and even expand operations. legislators have certainly ben- a lawsuit or criminal case in Such a study is taking shape

14 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com March 1, 2017 March 1, 2017 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 15 16 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com March 1, 2017 FEATURE

Coke is a fuel that rose to prominence in western Pennsylvania during the 1800s, SO WHAT IS BENZENE? and is derived from coal, having its impurities removed in order to increase its carbon content.

quality study results also indicated that the TCC facility was the most important factor in the high air con- centrations of benzene.” Tonawanda Coke Corp. was deter- mined to be the primary cause of carcinogenic benzene in the air that residents were breathing. But since the community demand- ed that TCC adhere to emissions standards, and since regulatory agencies and data could no longer he National Center for Biotechnolo- be ignored, things have changed Tgy Information defines benzene as a dramatically. “Toxic, volatile, flammable liquid hydro- A follow-up to the Tonawanda carbon byproduct of coal distillation,” Community Air Quality Study, re- which “causes central nervous system leased after “four years of air mon- damage acutely and bone marrow dam- itoring,” reported dramatic “reduc- age chronically and is carcinogenic. … DÉFOURNEMENT tions in the ambient concentrations EPA has classified benzene as known of benzene and other air pollutants human carcinogen for all routes of expo- in Tonawanda. Later last October, State Supreme Court rejected TCC’s within the Tonawanda communi- sure.” the ETN reported, “Researchers appeal in the class action civil case ty,” which “were the result, in part, The NCBI identifies the following ef- plan a groundbreaking study that filed by “neighbors of the plant … of operational modifications made fects: monitors the health of up to 38,000 seeking damages on two fronts: for by the Tonawanda Coke Corpora- – Acute (short-term) inhalation expo- residents of suburban Buffalo near the loss in property values and for tion (TCC) in response to NYSDEC sure of humans to benzene may cause Tonawanda Coke Corp., which has loss of quality of life, both caused and U.S. Environmental Protection drowsiness, dizziness, headaches, as a similar plant in Erie,” in order “to by Tonawanda Coke’s ‘negligent Agency’s (USEPA) inspections of the well as eye, skin, and respiratory tract see if emissions from the coke plant release of chemicals into the atmo- facility and subsequent federal and irritation, and, at high levels, uncon- have increased the rates of cancer, sphere,’” according to The Buffalo state enforcement actions against sciousness. heart disease, lung diseases, and News. TCC.” – Chronic (long-term) inhalation expo- kidney diseases in people who live Residents near TCC had raised A second follow-up was released sure has caused various disorders in the in the Town of Tonawanda, City of concerns about “cancer, neurologi- this past December, after eight blood, including reduced numbers of red Tonawanda, and Grand Island. cal and autoimmune diseases, aller- years of air monitoring, which blood cells and aplastic anemia, in occu- “The $11.4 million public health gies and respiratory irritation, and showed further reductions in ben- pational settings. study will be paid for by Tonawanda asthma and other respiratory dis- zene concentration. Improvements – Reproductive effects have been re- Coke as part of federal order after orders,” according to the New York were once again attributed in part ported for women exposed by inhalation the company was convicted in 2013 State Department of Health (NYS- to TCC operational modifications. to high levels, and adverse effects on the of violating the Clean Air Act and DOH), which conducted a health developing fetus have been observed in PEOPLE OVER POLITICS AND the Resource Conservation and Re- outcomes review “based on the animal tests. PROFITS covery Act. The company was also public health implications of the – Increased incidence of leukemia fined $12.5 million and placed on five [Tonawanda Community] air quali- The Trump administration’s deci- (cancer of the tissues that form white years’ probation.” ty study and requests from commu- sion to control what the American blood cells) have been observed in hu- ETN then gently reminded Erie- nity members.” [emphasis added] public learns about environmental mans occupationally exposed to ben- ites of what should be obvious by In other words, collective com- and agricultural science under- zene. now: “The study could be of inter- plaints from members of the com- scores the need for unprecedented The Tonawanda Community Air Quali- est to residents of northwestern munity, particularly those living community efforts. During a pan- ty Study, released in October 2009, had Pennsylvania because the same nearest the TCC site, were integral el discussion on Jan. 26 hosted by “measured ambient concentrations of company owns and operates both in catalyzing an examination by the Drexel University’s Academy of hazardous air pollutants,” and “the re- the Tonawanda Coke plant and the NYSDOH. And the results were re- Natural Sciences and PennEnviron- sults identified elevations of several Erie Coke plant at the foot of East markable. ment, Sen. Casey urged concerned chemicals, including benzene, linked to Avenue. Both plants have been cit- “The air quality study showed that citizens to make our voices heard the Tonawanda Coke Corporation (TCC). ed by the Environmental Protection the concentrations of benzene and like never before. The air quality study also identified areas Agency for the emission of benzene, formaldehyde were much higher in Casey spoke casually, and without with an excess lifetime cancer risk asso- a known carcinogen.” the Tonawanda area than in oth- political platitudes, as a concerned ciated with TCC benzene emissions.” er areas with industrial and urban Pennsylvanian who believes in the Benzene is likewise the pollutant that IT TAKES A VILLAGE monitoring data in New York State, word “commonwealth”; a concerned Erie Coke Corp. has been sued for emit- In January of 2016, the New York excluding New York City. The air American who believes in democra- ting. – K.C.

March 1, 2017 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 17 FEATURE

cy; a concerned parent who wants chil- corporation and clean air is typically dren to have air that’s safe to breathe. painted in black and white by politi- He and fellow panelists also empha- cians who are owned in part by the sized clean energy’s superior economic companies they defend. But in reality, and employment potentials. But we’re the choice is more gray, like the nox- not going to get there overnight. ious cloud many witnessed over Erie Meanwhile, Erie needs jobs. Now. No Coke in March of 2010. No one should disputing that. And even in Tonawa- have to see such a sight again. nda, community organizer Jackie And certainly, no city should suffer James-Creedon insisted that her the misdeeds of a corporation found group’s intention “was never to shut perpetually negligent, which has seem- down Tonawanda Coke, but to work ingly decided that the health and vi- together with them to clean up their tality of its surrounding community is operation. We asked them to be good less important than turning a profit. neighbors and they would not even It’s time to clear the air, Erie. grant us the human courtesy of talking to us.” Katie Chriest can be contacted The choice between a jobs-providing at [email protected].

TONAWANDA’S CITIZEN SCIENTISTS estern New York’s Citizen Science Community Resources (CSCR), founded in W2014, describes its mission as encouraging people to “use the power of scien- tific data to create healthier communities and a more just society.” CSCR grew out of the efforts of Tonawanda resident Jackie James-Creedon, who, along with other locals, worked with the Clean Air Coalition of Western New York to hold Tonawanda Coke Corp. and environmental manager Mark Kamholz “responsible for emitting benzene, particulate matter, and other dangerous chemi- cals into surrounding neighborhoods. [CACWNY] combined community-based sci- ence, collaboration with government agencies, and ongoing public pressure from community members and local media to achieve their goal.” Back in 2005, frustrated by a lack of scientific research, these citizen scientists formed a “bucket brigade,” using a “5-gallon bucket from Home Depot, plastic bag- gies, and a hand-held vacuum to test their air.” After discovering high levels of benzene, the group wielded their data to pressure the NYS DEC and EPA to conduct a year-long study, which corroborated their evi- dence: “Benzene levels were 75 times higher than the EPA guideline and Tonawan- da Coke Corp. … was the predominant source of emissions.” TCC and Mark Kamholz were indicted in 2010, but Tonawanda’s citizen scientists continued their efforts. In 2012, they dug samples of their soil to be tested, once again finding dangerous levels of harmful chemicals embedded there. And in 2013, TCC and Kamholz were found guilty of “14 criminal charges violating the Clean Air Act and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.” CSCR’s website reads, “It all started with just a few neighbors sitting around a table discussing their individual health struggles and their collective right to a cleaner environment.” Incidentally, in December of 2016, TCC CEO Paul Saffrin donated $1 million each through his foundation (formerly J.D. Crane’s) to Daemen College and Explore and More Children’s Museum, a move quickly criticized by the CSCR, according to The Buffalo News. In a press release, CSCR director James-Creedon said, “We don’t deny that these donations were made to two worthy causes. But given the circumstances of how this money was made, wouldn’t it be logical to donate this money to the people that have been harmed by this company’s pollution first?” In Tonawanda, it’s taken constant pressure, courageous outspokenness, and heartfelt neighborliness to keep a corporation in check. But it’s working. In these extraordinary times, we need to recognize our own power – our own ob- ligation – in keeping our community safe, healthy, and vibrant. No leader we elect – and certainly no profit-minded CEO – will solve these issues for us, unless we demand it. Tonawanda has provided the precedent. Now it’s up to us. – K.C.

18 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com March 1, 2017

20 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com March 1, 2017 Spotlight on Erie March 1 – 14, 2017

Thursday, March 2 scene to the table in one place,” Tapper ry, and Kilkenny, and all band members “We try to keep our show fresh with says. And this place isn’t just any run- play a variety of instruments including new material, to keep it interesting for Art. Check. Beer. Check. of-the-mill event space. The Brewerie banjo, fiddle, accordion, and bodhrán, us and our listeners,” Becker added. Music. Check. at Union Station was the first local an Irish frame drum described as “the Staying true to their roots in New craft beer bar in the city, and the own- heartbeat of Irish music.” York’s Adirondack Mountains, the ers picked a glorious historic building For a taste of the band’s talents, check band incorporates an “old time sound” to call home. “The owner of Brewerie out the high energy, accordion-heavy into its upbeat music, with a combina- and Drew Kaufmann got together and song “Tie the Ribbon, Queen of May” tion of acoustic guitar, mandolin, ban- thought this spot was a really good – also perhaps an apt introduction to jo, and other instruments. place to house art and music events,” Caladh Nua given the recent warmer The group’s first album, Arlene, was Tapper explains. “The fact that the Erie weather. Acoustically-driven “The released in spring of 2016. Becker said festival has blossomed into something Windmill Set” presents a similar rapid it was well-received and explained that that’s bursting at the seams, and that pace and energy, but more layers of in- the band members are now working we can tie in a local establishment and struments give the tune an introspec- on their next one. They hope to finish arch is upon us and with the Arts their love of beer and art, is amazing.” tive feel. “Farewell to You” showcases recording it soon to release it later this and Drafts Festival starting on M For those who are more visually in- the beautiful, reedy vocals of Lisa But- year. the 2nd, this month is bound to come clined, the art on display will be excit- ler, who also plays the fiddle, against “Erie will never be the same,” one roaring in like the proverbial lion. For ing and representative of Erie’s fasci- the backdrop of pretty and melancholy Facebook user wrote on the event’s music, art, and beer lovers, this will cer- nating artists. “There’s such an eclectic lyrics. page. “The Old Main rocks.” – Tracy tainly be a positive thing. The spring group of artists in Erie that do so many Having played concerts around Eu- Geibel edition of this well-loved and thor- different styles of art, using so many rope and in Canada, Caladh Nua is not oughly dynamic event will descend different kinds of media,” Tapper says. to be missed in Erie. Anyone looking 10 p.m. // Kings Rook Club, 1921 Peach St. upon the Brewerie at Union Station for “It’s amazing to see everything on dis- for a safe, genuinely Irish sonic haven // $7 // facebook.com three days of all things local and artsy. play and to hear all these musicians all amidst the raucous St. Patrick’s Day Those familiar with this event will be Monday, March 6 in one place in this great atmosphere, revelry will be charmed and thrilled by pleased to hear – and see – the work of with great food, and great beers.” – Mir- this band’s poignantly homey sound. – a “rotating cast of characters,” explains Carnifex Brings Menacingly iam Lamey Miriam Lamey music director, Justin Tapper, but he Artful Metal adds that there are many new musi- 6:30 p.m on March 2 & 3; 5:45 p.m on 7:30 p.m. // Mary D’Angelo Performing cians performing at this edition. New- March 4 // The Brewerie at Union Station, Arts Center at Mercyhurst University, comers include Spooky Minus Spooky, 123 W. 14th St. // 454.2200 501 E. 38th St. // 824.3000 or miac. a one-man band, who is “old school mercyhurst.edu jazz meets new wave”; Brooke Ashley Thursday, March 2 Surgener, who combines songwriting Saturday, March 4 and musicianship into cosplay; Dara Genuine Irish Music Appling, a “singer-songwriter with at Mercyhurst The Old Main Plays in an operatic feel at times” and, Tapper Erie for the First Time concludes, “Pine Diary with Jess Royer who is pure soul in my eyes.” The sonically illuminating spring he Entertainment Collective is edition of Arts and Drafts tends to be bringing another huge show to a little more subdued in amplitude. T Basement Transmissions, this time Artists play inside the establishment with the metal stylings of Carnifex, as opposed to taking the stage outside Rings of Saturn, Lorna Shore, and She for the fall festival. Acoustic music Must Burn. will mostly be the name of the game, San Diego deathcore quintet Car- Tapper explains, but this spring he nifex, whose name is Latin for “butch- has decided to incorporate some elec- er” or “executioner,” stands out from tric-based instrumentation as well. On reland’s culture and history are rich, the typical deathcore crowd with their the quieter side, of course. “It’s a new deep, intriguing, and have a whole ounded in June of 2014, The Old use of piano and keys. This is most format,” he says, but be assured that I branch of traditional music just itch- Main – a talented, New York-based prevalent in the song “Slow Death,” all music is original: “The artists all F ing to be explored. On March 2 at Mer- folk-rock band – will perform at the wherein the keys bring the heavy gui- play original stuff. That’s what people cyhurst’s Mary D’Angelo Performing Kings Rook Club on Saturday, March 4, tars to an abrupt halt and change the are here to see. We don’t have anyone Arts Center, the music of southern with Darah Appling. tone of the song to something more playing covers.” This is a showcase of Irish band Caladh Nua will conjure up “We are super excited to meet some eerie, menacing, and artful. After a the Erie music scene’s best and bright- the Emerald Isle and provide a window new people and share our music with brief hiatus in 2013, Carnifex has come est, and Tapper is adamant that there into this country’s traditions. a new crowd,” said The Old Main’s gui- back with two more studio albums, Die is nothing like this festival in the city. Caladh Nua is a Gaelic phrase mean- tarist Seth Becker. Without Hope (2014) and Slow Death It unites the uniqueness and vibran- ing “a new or safe port or anchorage,” Taking its inspiration from Tom Petty, (2016), both of which reached the top cy of many creative individuals, and and the quintet will ground audiences Bob Dylan, and The Eagles, this group 100 on the U.S. album charts as well as allows non-performers to experience in traditional yet innovative Irish folk considers itself a “modern high-energy top five on the U.S. hard rock charts. this tight-knit, diverse community. music sounds. The members hail from band.” They strive to keep the audience From the San Francisco Bay Area “This is all about local talent and bring- Irish counties Carlow, Waterford, Ker- on their toes with new surprises. comes Rings of Saturn. The band’s ex- ing the best of the Erie music and art

March 1, 2017 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 21 CALENDAR treme technical style could be consid- a Japanese heiress, but she is secret- ered a fusion between heavy metal and ly involved in a plot to defraud her. It math-rock (or mathcore, if you want seems that Park is continuing on his to be a genre Nazi), while they jok- path of provocative, taboo-shattering, ingly call themselves “aliencore.” The boundary-pushing cinema. If you’re at avant-garde style has worked well for all interested in what one of the most them, though, as their latest album Lu- exciting and creative figures in world gai Ki En peaked at number 126 on the cinema has in store for us, head to the U.S. Billboard 200 chart. Erie Art Museum and see The Hand- The rest of the bill consists of Lorna maiden for yourself. – Forest Taylor Shore, She Must Burn, and the only lo- cal act of the night, Obelus. Don’t miss Doors at 6 p.m., film at 7 p.m. // Erie this great chance to see some excellent Art Museum, 20 E. Fifth St. // $5 // national and local metal acts, to bang erieartmuseum.org/events-film more famous in the States than Chan- your head, and to have a great time. – wook Park. Thursday, March 9 Tommy Shannon Park became well known after his so- The Goddamn Gallows high-octane frenzy, wild parties fueled 6 p.m. // Basement Transmissions , 145 W. called “Vengeance Trilogy”: a series of by the visceral energy the band exudes. 11th St. // $20 // all ages // facebook.com films all centered around the concept Swing Back to Town Their shows are booze-soaked rampag- of revenge. These included Sympathy f you’ve ever seen the Goddamn Gal- es. Literally. You might want to bring a for Mr. Vengeance, Sympathy for Lady Wednesday, March 8 lows live, you’re probably excited towel, because things tend to get a tad Vengeance, and most famously, Oldboy, I to hear that they’re coming back to rowdy. Shows prove to be endlessly fun, South Korean Shock- which has gone on to develop a strong Erie. The nomadic quintet were a well- unforgettable experiences, winning cult following since its 2003 release; Cinema Comes to Erie known favorite at The Crooked i. The over fans of every genre. The heavily one that even inspired an American f you want to see the most interest- former State Street bar, once the epi- tattooed band employs non-traditional remake. Oldboy in particular was a ing developments happening in film center for original music in Erie, closed instrumentation, complete with banjo, I boundary-pushing film that sought to today, you need to check out South Ko- its doors on March 30, 2014. The God- washboard, and accordion parts. The explore taboos within society in a very rea. For over a decade now, the South damn Gallows were the final band to raucous flavor provides an almost sur- blunt, shocking manner while also sub- Korean film industry has been expe- grace the stage that night. real atmosphere, a haunted circus of tly poking fun at modern society. Park riencing a boom of creativity, with Brace yourselves, because they’re hysteria at every turn. would go on to do the same thing with filmmakers like Joon-ho Bong, Sang- coming back. Along with the Gallows will be a band his next films, Thirst and Stoker – his ho Yeon, Ji-woon Kim, Sang-soo Im, Darcy’s Pub and Grub will host the with an some good name recognition. first movie made by an American pro- Ki-duk Kim and many others making band’s return, at “The Local” stage NP Presley & the Ghost of Jesse Garon duction company. original, provocative, and challeng- downstairs. is an eight-piece from Lexington, Ken- His newest film, The Handmaiden, ing films, some of which have even The band plays a unique blend of tucky with a rock and roll pedigree. is the story of a young Korean wom- achieved mainstream American suc- punk rock, bluegrass, and metal. Live Frontman NP Presley happens to be an who is hired as a handmaiden for cess. However, no Korean filmmaker is performances by the Gallows are first cousin once removed to the king

Arundel Cellars, Dub Squad, Personal 145 W. 11th St. facebook.com/ Mar. 11 — 5:30 to 11 p.m. Erie Art Museum, 411 State MUSIC 11727 E. Main Rd. Blend and Natask pg/basement.transmissions. Ambassador Conference St. erieartmuseum.org. arundelcellars.com. Mar. 10 — 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Center Crystal Ballroom, Caladh Nua History of the 7794 Peach St. facebook. The Perils of Mar. 2 — 7:30 p.m. Carnifex Kings Rook Club, 1921 Peach St. facebook. Harpsichord com/BlendedSpiritsRanch. Pauline (1947) Mary D’Angelo Performing Mar. 6 — 6 to 11 p.m. com/kingsrookclub. Mar. 13 — 7:30 to 9 p.m. Mar. 2 — 8 to 10 p.m. Arts Center, 501 E. 38th St. Basement Transmissions, Gannon University’s Yehl Mind, Body, Beer Erie Movie House, 3424 miac.mercyhurst.edu. 145 W. 11th St. facebook. Bleeps N Bloops Ballroom, 109 University Mar. 14 — 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. W. Lake Rd. facebook. com/tecshows. Mar. 11 — 5 to 10 p.m. Sq. gannon.edu. Erie Ale Works, 416 com/ErieMovieHouse. Sean Patrick & The W. 12th St. facebook. Newgrass Revolution Emanuel Ax Performs Basement Transmissions, 145 W. 11th St. facebook.com/ D’Angelo Department com/ErieAleWorks. The Met: Live in Mar. 3 — 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Beethoven: A pg/basement.transmissions. of Music: Faculty HD Rusalka Kings Rook Club, 1921 Performance and Recital Series FILM Mar. 4 — 12:55 p.m. Peach St. facebook. Conversation Erie Philharmonic Mar.15 — 8 p.m. Mary D’Angelo Performing com/kingsrookclub. Mar. 8 — 7 to 8:30 p.m. Symphonic Concert Walker Recital Hall, Walking With Arts Center, 501 E. 38th St. Dinosaurs: miac.mercyhurst.edu. Julio Quezada Jefferson Educational Emanuel Ax 501 E. 38th St. miac. Society, 3207 State Mar. 11 — 8 p.m. mercyhurst.edu. Prehistoric Planet and Friends St. jeserie.org. Ongoing — 11 a.m. The Handmaiden Mar. 4 — 6 to 9 p.m. Warner Theatre, 811 State St. erieevents.com. DANCE & 1 & 3 p.m. Mar. 8 — 7 p.m. Anchor In at Oasis Pub, 3122 Emanuel Ax Tom Ridge Environmental Erie Art Museum, 411 State W. Lake Rd. jazzerie.com. Mar. 9, 10 — noon The Fat Catz Matters of the Heart Center, 301 Peninsula Dr. St. erieartmuseum.org. Walker Recital Hall, Mar. 11 — 10 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Mar. 3, 4 — 8 to 10 p.m. biggreenscreen.com. Ultimate 80’s Video Mix 501 E. 38th St. miac. Lake Erie Ballet, Victoria Party with DJ Mad Matt Kings Rook Club, 1921 Lewis & Clark: Great mercyhurst.edu. Peach St. facebook. 1020 Holland St. Mar. 8 — 7 p.m. Mar. 4 — 7 to 11 p.m. com/kingsrookclub. lakeerieballet.org. Journey West The Movies at Meadville, McCoy’s Barrelhouse and The Goddamn Gallows Ongoing — noon & 4 p.m. 11155 Highline Dr. sites. Grill, 1013 State St. facebook. Mar. 9 — 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. These Two & Me FOOD & DRINK Tom Ridge Environmental allegheny.edu. com/mccoysbarrelhouse. Darcy’s Pub & Grub, 3746 Mar. 12 — 1 to 4 p.m. Center, 301 Peninsula Dr. W. 12th St. facebook. Arts & Drafts Fest biggreenscreen.com. Zodiac The Old Main and Arundel Cellars, com/goddamngallows. 11727 E. Main Rd. Mar. 2, 3, 4 — noon Mar. 9 — 8:30 to 11 p.m. Darah Appling arundelcellars.com. to midnight Journey to Space Edinboro University Mar. 4 — 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Emanuel Ax: Fridays The Brewerie at Union Ongoing — 2 & 5 p.m. Pogue Student Center, 405 Kings Rook Club, 1921 with the Phil Ridgewood, Welman, Station, 123 W. 14th Tom Ridge Environmental Scotland Rd. facebook.com/ Peach St. facebook. Mar. 10 — 6:30 to 8 p.m. Mallory Run, St. facebook.com/ Center, 301 Peninsula Dr. pg/edinborofilmseries. com/kingsrookclub. Warner Theatre, 811 Archway and Ramona groups/52566917579. biggreenscreen.com. State St. eriephil.org. The Met: Live in Gem City Revival Come Closer Blended Spirits Ranch Hell or High Water HD La Traviata Mar. 5 — 1 to 4 p.m. Giant Panda Guerilla Mar. 13 — 7 p.m. Annual Dinner Dance Mar. 1 — 7 p.m. Mar. 11 — 12:55 p.m. Basement Transmissions,

22 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com March 1, 2017 March 1, 2017 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 23

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of rock and roll himself, Elvis (NP’s The Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad Friday, March 10 Directed by Almitra Clerkin, the mother, Paula Marie Helton, was Elvis’ (GPGDS) will perform with Personal Erie Playhouse show will feature Kate cousin, touring with him in the ’70s). Blend at the Kings Rook Club. Erie Playhouse Stages Amatuzzo as Isbella Andreini, Shawn The rest of the band is named for Elvis’ Undoubtedly one of the region’s most The Glorious Ones Clerkin as Flaminio Scala, and Jean twin brother, Jesse Garon, who died at beloved reggae bands, GPGDS recently Malthaner as Armand Ragusa. birth. reached the top of the reggae charts. Proceeds from ticket sales will bene- The band plays a classic, throwback The band’s Make It Better, released in fit the Alex Clemente Fund and allow style of rock and roll, also featuring the September of 2016, debuted at number the Playhouse to participate in the vocals of Heather Parrish. one on the Billboard Reggae Chart. It Pennsylvania Association of Commu- The packed night will also feature was their second release to earn that nity Theatre Fest’s competition, held Olean, New York’s riotous swamp met- spot. mid-March in Williamsport. – Tracy al four-piece, Dredneks, along with “We had a purpose to prove to our- Geibel Erie’s own Matt “Broke” Boland. All selves recording this album. We want- bands being consummate performers, ed to know that we could put our 7:30 p.m. Friday & Saturday // Schuster an evening of high energy rock is sure- heads down and do good work fast,” Theatre at Gannon University, 620 he Erie Playhouse will perform The ly in store. – Nick Warren said bassist and vocalist James Searl. Sassafras St. // $25 // 871.5368 // Glorious Ones on Friday and Satur- “It was a great release artistically. It T erieplayhouse.org/shows/2016-17/the- day, March 10 and 11, at Gannon Univer- 9 p.m. // Darcy’s Pub & Grub, 3746 West uniquely sounds the most progressive glorious-ones sity’s Schuster Theatre. 12th St. // $5 // facebook.com of anything we have ever done while Based on the book by Francine Prose, Sunday, March 12 also sounding the most like our first Friday, March 10 beloved Broadway duo Stephen Fla- album.” herty and Lynn Ahrens are responsible A Dozen Erie Artists Since forming in 2001, the GPGDS has Number One Band on for bringing the story to life as a mu- Against Teen Violence released several albums, but its latest the Billboard Reggae sical. includes some of its best work. The Glorious Ones has “one hand on Chart to Perform The other band to perform at the the crotch, and one hand on the heart,” show is Personal Blend, a reggae-rock Ahrens says. group that promises to bring a “feel- The crude and comical but also good, party vibe.” Personal Blend’s sev- somewhat serious and heart-touch- en members, who released their first ing musical tells the story of an acting album Skin Deep in August of 2016, troupe that searches for fame. Things have opened for Spiritual Rez, The go awry when the group is forced to Movement, and others. leave France because its performances Following the “downstairs rager,” are deemed too offensive and lustful. guests are invited upstairs for an af- A lead character and founder of the GIANT PANDA GUERILLA DUB SQUAD ter-party featuring NatasK & Matis- small troupe, Flaminio Scala, doesn’t flex. – Tracy Geibel ow in its fifth year, the Communi- n Friday, March 10, two Roches- react well to this decision and worries ter-based bands will take the stage ty Call for Peace is a chance for a O 9 p.m. // Kings Rook Club, 1921 Peach St. // about what it means for his acting ca- N in Erie. wide variety of local musicians to unite $7 // facebook.com reer.

Mary D’Angelo Performing Glass Growers Erie Art Museum, 411 State Erie Art Museum, 411 State The Glorious Ones 1501 W. 6th St. leaferie.org. Arts Center, 501 E. 38th St. Gallery, 10 E. 5th St. St. erieartmuseum.org. St. erieartmuseum.org. Mar. 10, 11— 7:30 p.m. miac.mercyhurst.edu. glassgrowersgallery.com. Erie Playhouse, 13 W. 10 Cardio Fit and Weight Photographs by Second Sundays St. erie playhouse.org. Lifting Class Elle Patricia S. Yahn ‘50 Gary Cardot Mar. 12 — 2 to 4 p.m. Mar. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 & Mar. 15 — 7 p.m. Juried Art Show Ongoing through June 24 Erie Art Museum, 411 State One Cool Friend Apr. 6 — 9:30 a.m. Erie Art Museum, 411 State Ongoing through Mar. 24 Erie Art Museum, 411 State St. erieartmuseum.org. Mar. 11 — noon & LifeWorks Erie, 406 Peach St. erieartmuseum.org. Mercyhurst University St. erieartmuseum.org. Mar. 11, 12 — 2 p.m. St. lifeworkserie.org. Cummings Gallery, THEATRE Erie Playhouse, 13 W. 10 Neruda 501 E. 38th St. miac. Tin Plated Dreams: St. erie playhouse.org. Barber National Mar. 15 — 7 p.m. mercyhurst.edu. Sculptures by A Chorus Line Institute Art Show The Movies at Meadville, Mar. 1, 2, 3, 4 — 7:30 p.m. William Brady, Jr. COMMUNITY/VARIETY Call to Entries 11155 Highline Dr. sites. Kids As Curators 2017 Ongoing through & Mar. 5 — 2 p.m. Mar. 2, 3 — 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. allegheny.edu. Ongoing through Mar. 26 January 7, 2018 Erie Playhouse, 13 W. 10 Seneca Allegany & Mar. 4 — 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Erie Art Museum, 411 State Erie Art Museum, 411 State St. erie playhouse.org. Casino Trip Barber National Institute, St. erieartmuseum.org. VISUAL ARTS St. erieartmuseum.org. Silence The Musical Mar. 1 — 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. 100 Barber Place The Art of Resistance: LifeWorks Erie, 406 Peach barberinstitute.org. Photo Exhibit Here/Now Mar. 3, 4 — 8 p.m. St. lifeworkserie.org. Veterans Respond of Rustbelt New Mar. 6 through Mar. PACA, 1505 State St. Opioid Epidemic Visually to War Americans: A 12 (Closing Reception paca1505.com. Tai Chi in Erie County Ongoing through Mar. 4 Showcase of Erie’s and Celebration Mar. The Luck of the Irish Mar. 1, 6, 8, 13, 20, 22, 27, 29 & Mar. 2 — 1 p.m. Bruce Gallery in Doucette Refugee Population 12 — noon to 1p.m.) Apr. 3, 5 — 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. LifeWorks Erie, 406 Peach Hall, 215 Meadville St. Ongoing through Mar. Allegheny College Doane Mar. 8, 14, 15 — noon & LifeWorks Erie, 406 Peach St. lifeworkserie.org. brucegallery.info. 26 — 6 to 8 p.m. Hall of Art, 520 N. Main Mar. 11, 18, 25 — 5:30 p.m. St. lifeworkserie.org. St. allegheny.edu. & Mar. 12, 26 — 2:30 p.m. Therapeutic Yoga First Presbyterian Church & Mar. 17 — 7 p.m. Mystical Arts of Tibet of the Covenant, 250 West Ceramics Mar. 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, Ongoing through Mar. 7th St. firstcovenanterie.org. Nathan Sulecki Station Dinner Handbuilding Class 28, 30 — 4 to 5:15 p.m. 5 (Closing Ceremony Photographs Theatre, 4940 Peach St. Mar. 1 — 6 to 8 p.m. LifeWorks Erie, 406 Peach canterburyfeast.com. Mar. 4 — 1:30 p.m.) Sergei Isupov: Mar. 10 through Apr. Erie ClaySpace, 1505 State St. lifeworkserie.org. Allegheny College Doane Hidden Messages 18 (Artist’s Reception St. eventbrite.com Hall of Art, 520 N. Main Mar. 10 — 7 to 10 p.m.) National Marionette American Short Stories Ongoing through Apr. 2 Theatre Presents: St. allegheny.edu. Erie Art Museum, 411 State Glass Growers Native and Invasive Mar. 2, 9, 16, 23 — 4 to 6 p.m. Gallery, 10 E. 5th St. Hansel & Gretel Terry Pytlarz: Making St. erieartmuseum.org. Plant Species Jefferson Educational glassgrowersgallery.com. Mar. 10 — 7 p.m. & Mar. with Jen Salem Society, 3207 State a Statement in Black & 11, 12 — 1 & 3 p.m. Earth Stories Mar. 1 — 7 to 8:30 p.m. St. jeserie.org. White Photography Gallery Night PACA, 1505 State St. Ongoing through June 11 LEAF Education Center, Ongoing through Mar. 8 Mar. 10 — 7 to 10 p.m. paca1505.com. New Horizons

March 1, 2017 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 25 CALENDAR for a good cause. Benefitting Mothers will follow, employing her percussive ing the stage at Basement Transmis- ented indie duo from Greenville, Penn- Against Teen Violence (MATV), the acoustic guitar style. One-man-band sions. sylvania made up of Kayla Bickerton concert brings together 12 local acts Matt “Broke” Boland will dish out his Welman, from Ann Arbor, Michi- and Zach Gill. This show will be the for one evening. own retro favorites and Americana gan, describe themselves as a “surfy duo’s first live performance. Headed by Erie City Councilwoman originals. Noted local emcee C.Brown post-something band,” which could One added element to this event will Sonya Arrington, MATV works direct- will do a thoughtful, energetic set as not be a more accurate summary of be a raffle to win two tickets to the ly with at-risk youth, trying to curb the hip-hop/jam septet, the LEC, closes their album Totem. The 10-track album sold-out Pinegrove show at Mahall’s violence at an early age. The group out the night. is filled to the brim with allusions to in Cleveland on May 8th. Raffle tickets began the Leadership Empowerment The event is open to those under various subgenres in the indie rock start at $1 and are limited to three per Accountability Diversity (LEAD) pro- 18 (with a parent) only until 8 p.m., community – notes of early 2000s-es- person. So come out to see some great gram, which meets at the Booker T. though festivities run until 9 p.m. – que emo with a dash of shoegaze, and live music, and win the chance to see Washington Center, offering mento- Nick Warren even a hint of screamo in some verses. some more! – Tommy Shannon ring and counseling for children be- Fans of anything between American tween the ages of 10 and 18. 4 to 9 p.m. // Oasis Pub, 3122 W. Lake Football and Title Fight should enjoy 7 p.m. // Basement Transmissions, 145 W. Arrington will open up the event Rd. // $6 // Age 18+ (under 18 must be the jams that Welman creates. 11th St. // $6 // All ages // facebook.com with a few words about the cause. It’s accompanied by a parent) From Minneapolis comes Ridge- Tuesday, March 14 an issue deeply close to her heart. In wood. The four-piece takes on a more Monday, March 13 2010, her son Steve Arrington II was pop punk/alt rock approach while still Local Writer Holds killed, shot outside a local convenience Welman, Ridgewood Evoke maintaining the defining characteris- Book-signing Event store. This tragedy inspired her to be- Emo Revival at BT tics of the emo genre. Their 2016 EP At come more involved in her community, Least I Have Myself is a prime example n Tuesday, March 14, Erie na- leading to the creation of MATV. of how artfully they blend the two Otive Shawntá Pulliam will hold The event begins shortly after 4 p.m. genres. a book-signing event at Barnes and with alt-rocker JC Nickles, followed by Local acts on the show are Erie/Edin- Noble for her book, Hell Bent, Heaven hip-hop artist Doc Proto. The 12-year- boro favorites Mallory Run, and Mead- Bound. old rap prodigy Yung Skola performs ville-based pop punk band Archway. In the book, Pulliam explains how third, followed by seasoned bluesman Both groups have recently signed to she was able to overcome hardship Rodger Montgomery. After that, clas- record labels, Mallory Run being set and challenges in her life by trusting sic rockers Strangers and Liars will to release a forthcoming album under in God. Through her journey of faith, take the stage, preceded by the ret- Wilhelm Records, and Archway having she moved “from the drug house to ro indie soul outfit, Pine Diary. The released their EP Crossroads under the King’s house,” as the book’s cover Breeze Band are next up, with their RIDGEWOOD Panic Records at the end of 2016. reads. danceable blend of soul and R&B. mo revival is in full swing in Erie, The opening act for the show is Ra- “[The book] was a calling, a purpose Singer songwriter Heather Devore Ewith four emotive rock bands tak- mona, Come Closer, an incredibly tal- for all that I’ve endured in life,” Pul-

Music Project: Mar. 3 — noon to 8 p.m. & Blasco Memorial Mar. 5 — 2 p.m. Mar. 8 — 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Pier erieevents.com. Strings and Folk Mar. 4 — 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. & Library, 160 E. Front Erie Insurance Arena, 809 Tom Ridge Environmental Mar. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 & Mar. 5 — 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. St. erielibrary.org. French St. erieevents.com Center, 301 Peninsula Dr. Trivia Night Bayfront Convention events.dcnr.pa.gov. Mar. 10 — 1 to 4 p.m. Apr. 6 — 4 to 6 p.m. Lake Erie Eagles LifeWorks Erie, 406 Peach Center, 1 Sassafras Pier Stuffed Animal Arundel Cellars, St. lifeworkserie.org. eriepromotions.com. Mar. 4 — 1:30 p.m. Sleepover Storytime Oriental Painting 11727 E. Main Rd. Erie Insurance Arena, 809 Mar. 5 — 4 to 5 p.m. Mar. 8, 15, 22, 29 & Apr. arundelcellars.com. Tom Wilson Night Owls French St. erieevents.com. Iroquois Branch 5, 12, 19 — 5 to 7 p.m. Mar. 2 — 7 p.m. & Mar. Canvas Class Library, 4212 Iroquois LifeWorks Erie, 406 Peach Springtime Snail 3, 4 — 6:45 & 9:30 p.m. Mar. 3 — 6 to 8 p.m. The Irish Hooley with Ave. erielibrary.org. St. lifeworkserie.org. Mar. 10 — 6 to 8 p.m. Jr’s Last Laugh Comedy Claytopia, 924 W. Erie Plaza Seamus Kennedy Claytopia, 924 W. Erie Plaza Club, 1402 State St. Dr. heathercash.com. Mar. 4 — 6:30 to 11 p.m. Endgame in Syria: Growing an Organic Dr. heathercash.com. jrslastlaugh.net. Belle Valley Social What Comes Next? Kitchen Garden with Erie Otters vs. Niagara Hall, 1514 Norcross Rd. Mar. 6 — 7 to 8:30 p.m. Lisa Baumgardner Erie BayHawks vs. Marijuana Policy Mar. 3 — 7 p.m. seamuskennedy.com. Jefferson Educational Mar. 8 — 7 to 8:30 p.m. Grand Rapids in the U.S.: Past, Erie Insurance Arena, 809 Society, 3207 State LEAF Education Center, Mar. 10, 11 — 7 p.m. Present, and Future French St. erieevents.com. Erie Otters vs. Sarnia St. jeserie.org. 1501 W. 6th St. leaferie.org. Erie Insurance Arena, 809 Mar. 2 — 7 to 8:30 p.m. Mar. 4 — 7 p.m. French St. erieevents.com. EPIC Volleyball Erie Insurance Arena, 809 Fit for Life Living with Jefferson Educational Poetry Scene Featuring Society, 3207 State Tournament French St. erieevents.com. Fitness Class Parkinson’s Disease St. jeserie.org. Mar. 4, 18 & Apr. 1, Mar. 7, 14, 21, 28 & Apr. Mar. 9 — 1 p.m. Cee Williams 8, 22 — 8:30 a.m. Humane Society 4 — 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. LifeWorks Erie, 406 Peach Mar. 10 — 7 to 9 p.m. Paint and Rock Fort LeBouf High School, Night at the Otters LifeWorks Erie, 406 Peach St. lifeworkserie.org. Avalon Erie Hotel & Pretty Kitties 931 North High St. Mar. 4 — 7 to 9 p.m. St. lifeworkserie.org. Conference Center, 16 Mar. 2 — 8 to 10 p.m. eriesportscommission.com. Erie Insurance Arena, 809 The Behrend Family, W. 10th St. facebook. French St. facebook.com/ Great Books: Sanding Hammermill and com/PoetsHall. Kings Rook Club, 1921 Iroquois High School Peach St. facebook. humanesocietyofnwpa. Down From Warrior the Outbreak of Gently Used Book Sale to Civilian Evening Fireside com/kingsrookclub. Erie Scratch Classic the Great War Mar. 4 — 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mar. 7, 14, 21 — 4 Mar. 9 — 7 p.m. Talk: Coyote & Fox Day in Applied Iroquois High School, 4301 Mar. 4 — 9:30 p.m. & Mar. to 5:30 p.m. Mar. 10 — 7 to 8:30 p.m. 5 — 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Erie Maennerchor Club, Forensic Sciences Main St. iroquoiscsd.org. Jefferson Educational 1607 State St. gcsoe.org. Rotary Pavilion in Mar. 3 — 9:15 a.m. Rolling Meadow Lanes, Society, 3207 State Presque Isle State to 2:15 p.m. Winter Stroll in the 3304 Zuck Rd. facebook. St. jeserie.org. Ben Bailey Park, 301 Peninsula Dr. com/ErieScratchClassic. Mercyhurst University, 501 Park: Long Pond Trail Mar. 9 — 7 p.m. & Mar. events.dcnr.pa.gov. E. 38th St. mercyhurst.edu. Mar. 4 — 10 to 11:30 a.m. Presque Isle History 10, 11 — 6:45 & 9:30 p.m. Pine Tree Pavilion near Western PA Hardwater Series: Misery Bay Spring Tonics Tournament Series Jr’s Last Laugh Comedy Tai Chi beach 9 in Presque Isle & Graveyard Pond Club, 1402 State St. Mar. 11 — 10 a.m. to noon Mar. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 & Apr. State Park, 301 Peninsula Mar. 5 — 5 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Mar. 7 — 6 to 7 p.m. jrslastlaugh.net. Tom Ridge Environmental 7 — 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. Dr. events.dcnr.pa.gov. Presque Isle State Park, 301 Tom Ridge Environmental Center, 301 Peninsula Dr. Regency At South Shore, Peninsula Dr. facebook. VNEA PA State events.dcnr.pa.gov. Think and Wonder: com/WesternPAFishing. Center, 301 Peninsula Dr. 322 Washington Place events.dcnr.pa.gov. 8-Ball Tournament Spring Fest lifeworkserie.org. A Celebration of Dr. Mar. 10, 11, 12. Seuss’ Birthday Erie BayHawks Outside the Mar. 11 — 11 a.m. vs. Delaware Bayfront Convention Sport & Travel Expo Mar. 4 — noon to 3 p.m. Window: Frogs Center, 1 Sassafras Peek’n Peak Resort, 405

26 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com March 1, 2017 CALENDAR

result of everything that she had pre- viously avoided addressing. In her one-bedroom apartment in the proj- ects, she finally dealt with all her built- up emotion and rededicated herself to God. Now Pulliam’s life is drastically dif- ferent. She is the founder and presi- dent of Nurturing Hearts, a non-profit that builds supportive leadership and life skills for at-risk girls ages 10 to 18. She’s also the owner of Shawntá Pul- liam Arise, a business that offers pro- grams and workshops with the goal of motivating and inspiring people to bet- SHAWNTÁ PULLIAM ter themselves and to find their way beyond obstacles and hardship. liam said. “I wanted people to know When she decided to share her story, there’s sunshine on the other side of it only took one year to finish writing. their gloom.” “Everything flowed, like the tears She grew up in Erie with a mother flowed down my face,” Pulliam said. who took drugs and without her fa- “There was so much that I needed to ther, who was incarcerated for most of say.” her childhood. As a result, much of the Later this year, Pulliam will be fea- responsibility of raising her younger tured on the Christian Television siblings fell on her, which took quite a Network’s It’s Time with Herman and toll. Sharron, and in April, she will speak She got into fights at school and was alongside Les Brown, a renowned mo- ultimately expelled, then attended a tivational speaker, who has been her reform school. When she put her prob- valuable mentor. In her spare time, she lems aside and focused on her educa- is writing a second book. – Tracy Geibel tion, Pulliam excelled, but she hadn’t healed emotionally. 6 to 8 p.m. // Barnes & Noble, 5909 Peach At age 21, she had a breakdown, the St. // shawntapulliamarise.com

Olde Rd. pknpk.com. Mar. 11 — 2 to 3:30 p.m. Asbury Woods Nature St. Patrick Church, 130 Center, 4105 Asbury Rd. Outdoor Survival Skills E. 10th St. facebook. asburywoods.org. Mar. 11 — 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. com/erieparadeday. Asbury Woods Nature Beach Glass Drilling Center, 4105 Asbury Rd. 1940’s USO Spring Fling Shamrock Style asburywoods.org. Mar. 11 — 7 to 11 p.m. Mar. 14 — 6 to 7:30 p.m. Zem Zem Shrine Club, 2525 Tom Ridge Environmental Winter Stroll in the W. 38th St. usa-eventer.com. Center, 301 Peninsula Dr. Park: Erie Bluffs events.dcnr.pa.gov. State Park Girls World Expo Mar. 11 — 1 to 2:30 p.m. Mar. 12 — noon to 4 p.m. Book Signing with Erie Bluffs State Park, Zem Zem Banquet & Shawnta Pulliam 11122 W. Lake Rd. Conference Center, 2525 W. Mar. 14 — 6 to 8 p.m. events.dcnr.pa.gov. 38th St. girlsworldexpo.com. Barnes & Noble, 5909 Peach St. Planning an Herb MATV Community shawntapulliamarise.com. Garden for Culinary Call to Peace and Medicinal Herbs Mar. 12 — 4 to 9:30 p.m. Meet the Practitioners Mar. 11 — 1 to 3 p.m. The Oasis, 3122 W. Lake of Integrative Tom Ridge Environmental Rd. oasispuberie.com. Wellness Options Center, 301 Peninsula Dr. Mar. 14 — 6 to 8:30 p.m. events.dcnr.pa.gov. Erie Otters vs. Whole Foods Co-Op, 1341 Peterborough W. 26th St. facebook. War Paint: A Workshop Mar. 12 — 5 p.m. com/brasthermgl. for Makeup Artists Erie Insurance Arena, 809 Mar. 11 — 1:30 to 5 p.m. French St. erieevents.com. Erie Otters vs. London Basement Transmissions, Mar. 14 — 7 p.m. 145 W. 11th St. facebook. The Work of Hospital Erie Insurance Arena, 809 com/pg/basement. Chaplains French St. erieevents.com. transmissions. Mar. 13 — 10:30 a.m. LifeWorks Erie, 406 Peach Is Sugar Ruining Blended Spirits St. lifeworkserie.org. Our Health? Ranch Fundraiser Mar. 15 — 6 p.m. and Appreciation Excel I Millcreek Municipal Dinner Dancee Mar. 14 & May 19 & June Building, 3608 W. 26th Mar. 11 — 5:30 to 11 p.m. 23 — 9 a.m. to noon St. lifeworkserie.org. Blasco Memorial Ambassador Conference Erie BayHawks vs. Center Crystal Ballroom, Library, 160 E. Front 7794 Peach Street St. erielibrary.org. Salt Lake City blendedspiritsranch.org Mar. 15 — 7 p.m. Fireside Crochet: Erie Insurance Arena, 809 Erie’s 2017 Saint Ruffle Scarf French St. erieevents.com Patrick’s Day Parade Mar. 14 — 6 to 7 p.m.

March 1, 2017 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 27 CALENDAR

Emanuel Ax Tips the Scales for the Erie Community

MARCH 8 – 11 Philharmonic’s performance of Beetho- ven’s Piano Concerto No. 5, otherwise re- ferred to as the “Emperor” Concerto. Writ- ten in dedication to Beethoven’s pupil and patron, the Archduke Rudolf of Austria (son of Emperor Leopold II), this opus is ev- ery bit as regal as its nickname would im- ply. Flurries of scales unfurl from the key- board like banners at a king’s coronation, punctuated by triumphant blasts from the orchestra. A beautiful tranquility sweeps By: Matt Swanseger over the kingdom in the piece’s second o quote Erie Philharmonic Executive movement, with balanced dialogue be- TDirector Steve Weiser, Emanuel Ax is tween the soloist and the surrounding “not just a guy off the street” where playing instruments. When the third movement piano is concerned – because that would arrives, the proverbial beer run has trans- infer the common street musician is a pired and the excitement again builds to a classically-trained pianist with a recording crescendo. career spanning 35 years. Ax has a certain flair for the Romantics – Nonetheless, the 67-year-old virtuoso he counts Beethoven, Mozart, and Haydn has heretofore made quite the living on among his favorites. His interpretations the road, from a youth spent climbing of Haydn’s piano sonatas earned him two the competition circuit to an adulthood solo instrumentalist Grammys, while his spent sitting in with some of the most collaborations with Chinese-American prestigious orchestras in the world. With cellist and fellow Julliard graduate Yo-Yo his wealth of talent and experience, it Ma garnered an additional five Grammys. would stand to reason that his presence Weiser estimates that Ax has performed would command a wealth of dollars (usu- the “Emperor” concerto thousands of ally north of $50,000). However, in a tre- times. mendous gesture to the Erie community, Nevertheless, Ax has cultivated a repu- Ax agreed to a four-day residency free of tation as one of today’s more versatile and charge, the only stipulation being that his broader-minded practitioners of classical time be managed wisely. piano, taking on 20th century composers With that objective in mind, Ax and Weis- such as Hans Werner Henze and Paul Hin- er coordinated three days of community demith and contemporaries such as Jo- outreach events to stoke an interest in seph Schwantner and Christopher Rouse. classical music that has been gradually It’s a rich legacy, but Ax remains gracious building over the past few Philharmonic and humbly indebted to the music that seasons. has paved his path. Content is forever king “This could kickstart everything to a in the Information Age, and although im- whole new level,” said Weiser in a video perialism has not always been andante in interview with the Millcreek Government the park, in this case we can all be honored Channel. “The goal is to get people out to be its subjects. that maybe wouldn’t go and get them com- ERIE PHILHARMONIC CONCERT, ing back.” BEETHOVEN PIANO CONCERTO NO. The itinerary begins with a free lecture 5 & MAHLER’S SYMPHONY NO. 4 and performance Wednesday night at the 8 p.m. on Saturday, March 11 // Warner Jefferson Educational Society. On Thurs- Theatre, 811 State St. // eriephil.org // day afternoon, piano hopefuls will be treat- 455.1375 // $20-$52, $10 students ed to a master class at Mercyhurst Univer- FREE EVENTS sity’s Walker Recital Hall. Mr. Ax will work Wednesday’s JES Lecture/Performance: with three local students, providing in- 3207 State St. (call 459.8000 or struction and feedback before a live audi- register online), begins at 7 p.m. ence. At noon on Friday, WQLN Radio (91.3 Thursday’s Master Class: Walker FM) will broadcast Ax’s recital as part of its Recital Hall at Mercyhurst, 501 “Live From Studio Q” performance series. E. 38th St., begins at noon That same night, an open rehearsal and Friday’s “Live From Studio Q” Performance: meet-and-greet will be held at the Warner Walker Recital Hall, begins at noon. Theatre, complete with cash bar and hors Friday’s Rehearsal/Meet-and- d’oeuvres courtesy of Cali’s West Catering. Greet: Warner Theatre, 811 State It all culminates Saturday night with the St. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

28 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com March 1, 2017 MUSIC REVIEWS

Jesca Hoop Cloud Nothings Sinkane Brenna Bone and Seann Clark Memories Are Now Life Without Sound Life & Livin’ It Acoustic Sessions Sub Pop Carpark Records City Slang Records Self-released

ntelligent, dark, leveland’s or his sixth re- he duo of Iand insightful, CCloud Fcord, Ahmed TBrenna Nicole Memories Are Nothings return Gallab shows Bone and Seann Now is a record for Life Without no signs of Clark is a power- filled with rich Sound. With this slowing down. ful combination. complexities. new effort, the Gallab, the mu- The two Erieites Jesca Hoop is a quartet, led by sician behind have been staples modern folk artist, blending subtly bril- frontman and songwriter Dylan Baldi, Sinkane, was born in London and lived of the local music scene for a little while liant lyrics with a melancholy alto. Open- have managed to avoid any major nose- in the Sudan, later growing up in Kent, now. Both play in the band Sonny’s Fugi- ing with un uncharacteristically synthetic dives in quality. While this album may Ohio. Having played in bands such as tives as well as fronting their own suc- beat, the titular track waltzes in and out not reach the heights of 2012’s Attack the Born Ruffians, Of Montreal, Yeasay- cessful projects. Bone recently released of tempo, Hoop’s main vocal track backed On Memory, it won’t disappoint the er, and Caribou, he’s made a name for her Growing Pains EP, while Clark is one by a chorus of in-studio harmonies. With band’s fans. Known for their aggressive himself around the globe. His worldly half of the group The Mighty Sea (along a dreamlike voice that exudes a vulnera- punk and indie rock sound, the band history shows in his music. A potent with violist Abby Barrett). Their styles ble tenderness, she takes the listener on now finds itself crafting tunes with a blend of Afrobeat and indie rock, Life & blend quite well. If Clark’s vocals are the a journey filled with hypnotic pizzicato heavy powerpop influence, more in the Livin’ It is undeniably enjoyable. Envel- smoke, Bone’s are the fire. His raspy bass guitar motifs that unfold like an ancient tradition of Dinosaur Jr. or Bob Mould. oping the listener within the first few vocals are bursting with character and manuscript. Fans of Joanna Newsom or Absent are lengthy, gradually building, notes, the deep beats of the pentatonic expertise, able to emote with every growl. Laura Marling will find this album to be fiery jams. The record is not devoid bass groove of “Deadweight” hook the Her voice cuts through the mix on the a quick favorite, one to be savored again of power, it simply comes in shorter, audience immediately. Uplifting funk other end of the spectrum, its incendiary and again. Followers of Iron & Wine will brighter bursts, as heard at the end of singalongs like “Favorite Song” and twang conveying both pain (“Sandra”) and be familiar with Hoop, as she released “Up to the Surface.” From the beginning “Telephone” show Gallab’s formidable tenderness (“It Was Always You”). The two an album with Sam Beam in 2016, Love of the band’s career, fuzz and chaos pop abilities with danceable flair. The provide a balance to each other, between Letter for Fire, to well-deserved critical have been traded increasingly for dis- additional help from the horn section the genres of alternative and country. The acclaim. Memories Are Now is the fourth tinct melodies and articulated riffs. It’s of Antibalas proves to be the perfect singers often trade lines within a verse, solo album for the California songwrit- a much more positive record than pre- ingredient to Gallab’s signature sound. heard to great storytelling effect in tracks er. The solemn moods of the album vious works. Tracks like “Modern Act” Some of the greatest moments come like “Down on the Curb” and the excellent succeed in unforgettable ways. Hoop have a tightly contained pop punk en- from the eponymous “Theme From Life “Promise.” There’s even a Christmas song is able to do so much with the stream- ergy, Baldi’s vocal delivery a controlled & Livin’ It,” a revitalizing celebration that included, courtesy of the darkly tinged lined instrumentation, using echoes and slur. The final track, “Realize My Fate,” radiates positivity and life. The soft dark- “Snow Angels,” while one of the sweet- negative space to create reverent atmo- is by far the rawest of the album’s nine ness of tracks like “Fire” and “Won’t Fol- est moments of the album comes in the spheres while telling entrancing stories. tracks, buzzing with a dark, dangerous low” balance that tone with spectacular Bone feature “Home,” a radio-ready piano – Nick Warren haze. – Nick Warren results. – Nick Warren ballad. – Nick Warren

Tommy in Toon — by Tommy Link

March 1, 2017 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 29 an type and old American type. to old ways for my own satisfac- I was in the right place at the tion, a revival of craftsmanship right time – very lucky. that has pretty much been lost. Erie EB: What was your fascination EB: Have some fonts been as a kid with printing? lost? MV: I’m not sure, because no MV: Some of the old fonts one in my family was a printer. can’t be reproduced even on Faces My grandmother from Germany the computer. Close, but still worked in a book bindery, but not the same. One of the advan- the fascination with type I can’t tages that metal type had over explain. It’s weird – I just love what you see now off a comput- Erie working with metal type. er is legibility and readability. EB: Now there’s a resurgence Take one particular typeface: in letterpress. The smaller sizes are actually Michael MV: The last few years have wider proportionally than the Vickey: seen a real interest. Some col- larger because it makes it eas- leges have book arts programs. ier on your eyes. And you can’t proprietor, The Vandercook proof press do that on the computer. You Nickel Plate has become pretty common would need a different font for in these programs along with each size, which is essentially Press handset type. People find it what you have with handset fascinating. You could do the type. There are typefaces that Ed Bernik same layout and design on the have been digitized, which I’ve photographer computer faster and easier, but done myself for the computer, something makes your mind but it’s not the same. work a little differently, hav- EB: You consulted with Corel “I’ve gone back to old ways ing the type and blank spaces Draw as a go-to type guy. for my own satisfaction, a physically in your hand. Moving MV: Early on, I saw where revival of craftsmanship the industry was heading and that has pretty much been worked with them through ver- and the American Point System MV: My good friend F. Earl lost.” There is a feel to sion 4. was established, which most Bonnell, who was from North Ed Bernik: When did you start EB: Are professionals across English-speaking countries use. East, had a private press called collecting type? it, and you can see the country hand-setting type? EB: Besides English, you also the Bunny Press. Earl did strict- Michael Vickey: I bought my a difference. The MV: Not so much commercial- have other languages. ly hand-set type, printing, and first press when I was 13 and fact that it’s a craft ly. Most are private presses. I do MV: I have Swedish type from binding on a number of small started my business full time some commercial accounts’ the newspaper in Mt. Jewett, keepsakes, booklets, and hard- when I was 19. I started collect- reveals itself in the work on letterpress. It’s not Pennsylvania. A large part of bound books. Very limited edi- ing type when I was in 10th or piece. necessarily easier but in certain my collection came from the tions, 100-300 copies. He was a 11th grade, right about the time cases I know it will look better. Vincentian Press at St. John great person to have as a guide photo-typesetting was coming I want to print things that peo- Kanty Prep, where they did a lot as far as putting type together in and the printers were getting them about to compose a page, ple will want to save; that they’ll of printing for the area’s Polish and looking good. Earl left me rid of metal and wood type. and seeing it at actual size. pick up from time to time and community. his entire collection of equip- I collected as much as I could. EB: Is there a beauty to letter- enjoy looking at what I’ve done, EB: You actually do printing in- ment, type, and a wonderful A lot of it came out of the Erie press that you can’t achieve on not toss it in the wastebasket. A ternationally. library of books about printing. Litho and Printing Compa- a conventional press? number of people just like me in MV: I’ve done work for people Not having room or immedi- ny, between Third and Fourth MV: There is a feel to it, and the letterpress revival share my all over the world, including a ate need for the equipment, streets on State Street – what’s you can see a difference. The commitment to craftsmanship. really neat project for Oxford I put everything in storage. now the Professional Building. fact that it’s a craft reveals itself EB: Sitting here in your shop is University for their bibliophile Recently, I moved everything They were bought out by Dia- in the piece. That’s what people like being in an antique printing society last year. It was com- into my shop and one of the mond International. They had are attracted to. The pinnacle of store. What’s the oldest piece pletely hand-set type and print- last things to come in was a a wonderful type collection, letterpress was during the Arts that you still use daily? ing. I’ll be doing that again next galley that Earl had set, which and didn’t throw anything out. and Crafts movement in the MV: I have a hand press that year. I’ve had visitors from all sat in storage for 30 years ac- Type from them that goes back early 1900s. Some of the printer was built in Cleveland at Chan- over the world. A few internet cumulating dust. I brought it in to the 1870s is in my collection or ink manufacturer advertising dler and Price in 1909, a 7x11 sites plus my own webpage get and proofed it. When I read it, I now. from that period is incredible platen press. Some of my type me out there. Pretty neat. thought to myself, “This is one When major printers in Cleve- work. You look at it now, and cabinets and type go back much EB: You’re also a national- of the most profound things land, Buffalo, Pittsburgh, and you have to admire the crafts- earlier, to the 1840s, before the ly-known dulcimer player. I have ever read.” It’s a poem Rochester closed, I’d collect as men who achieved that level of standardized point system. I MV: Yeah, I won the Eastern called “The Watermill,” and I much display type as I could af- quality and intricacy. I’m doing have a bunch of oddball-type Region hammer dulcimer com- decided to make a little booklet ford. At the time, it was all being it because I love working with sizes – 17-point, 21-point – petition last year as well as the out of it as a tribute to Earl and sold at scrap prices. I purchased type, running the press, and each type manufacturer had mountain dulcimer, and four to commemorate my being a some of my equipment at that seeing the type put an image on its own system of measure, so times hammer dulcimer for the printer for 50 years. time. My Vandercook proof the paper. I like the feel of the they weren’t compatible with Florida old-time music cham- Michael Vickey: Nickel- press came from Superior Type- paper. The printing business each other. By 1892, there was pionship. My group, The Good Plate-Press.com setting in Cleveland. Mangis has been good to me for 40 a consolidation of several type for Nuthin String Band, plays re- Typesetting in Pittsburgh had a years and even though things founders. An agreement was gionally and has three CDs. Ed Bernik: very rare collection of Europe- have changed, I’ve gone back reached for standardization, EB: Who was your mentor? bernikphotography.com

30 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com March 1, 2017