Ben Franklin Technology Partners is looking for tech innovators or small manufacturers located in Erie, Crawford, Mercer, Venango, Warren, Forest, or Clarion County PA, who are developing new products, processes, or software applications.

If You Are Ready To Turn a BIG IDEA into a BIG OPPORTUNITY, visit BIGIDEA.BenFranklin.org for details and entry form. CONTENTS From the Editors The only local voice for news, arts, and culture. SEPTEMBER 23, 2020 Local businesses aim to level up Editors-in-Chief s life a game of chance or a game of skill? It would Brian Graham & Adam Welsh Living and Making a Living Through the Pandemic – 5 depend on who you ask, but most would agree it’s Managing Editor How COVID-19 is impacting our lives, the way we Nick Warren Ineither purely roulette nor purely chess. Instead, Copy Editor live, and our livelihoods they might just say “it’s a grind.” Matt Swanseger If you’ve ever played a role-playing game (RPG), you Contributing Editors Going to the Polls vs. Mail-in Voting – 10 might be familiar with the term “grinding” — returning Ben Speggen Why both are equally valid methods of exercising to an area you’ve already mastered to build up enough Jim Wertz resources to tackle an area you haven’t. You collect Contributors your right them in the form of materials — items, weapons, armor, Liz Allen Berry Global Thrives in Erie – 12 currency — and experience, which is applied toward Mary Birdsong better competencies and skills. With enough grinding, Charles Brown Essential plastic closure business is open and you just might be able to hold your own against the Jonathan Burdick more daunting enemies and challenges to come. Of Katie Chriest humming Symoné Crockett course, since the advent of the massively multiplayer Chloe Forbes Pre-Fab, But Uniquely Erie – 14 online role-playing games (MMORPGs) such as World Tommy Link of Warcraft, it has become possible to buy fully upgrad- Hannah McDonald The Lawrence Park Dinor’s history and future Ben Franklin Technology Partners Aaron Mook ed characters and equipment outright with real money Brad Pattullo 40 Under 40 Alumni Continue to Show Moxie – 16 on sites like eBay. Others put in the (palm) sweat equity is looking for tech innovators or small Dan Schank so you don’t have to — it’s almost like being born rich. Tommy Shannon Despite challenging year, individuals show no quit But as is often the case in fantasy, so it is too in real- Melissa Sullivan Shimek manufacturers located in Ryan Smith ity. In our professional lives, few of us start as a Level Jen Sorenson Stirring up Business with Cocktails To-Go – 19 100 Wizard, just conjuring resources from the ether Erie, Crawford, Mercer, Venango, Rebecca Styn Bars and restaurants find new mix to their at will. We either grind for a while and advance, or Cara Suppa just “keep grinding.” For those of us who do choose to Warren, Forest, or Clarion County PA, Forest Taylor business model Bryan Toy proceed toward greater obstacles and the pursuant re- ward, we undertake the element of chance and place who are developing new products, Photographer Slide in the DM – 20 Jessica Hunter faith in our skills — like a game of the original RPG How local Dungeons & Dragons players are rolling Dungeons & Dragons, it’s a series of dice rolls combined processes, or software applications. Intern Simonique Dietz for their own initiative with real-time problem-solving and creative thinking. Cover Design Business owners and entrepreneurs accept this and Nick Warren The Standby Release Demos to Celebrate Over, embrace this. If You Are Ready To Turn a BIG IDEA Under Anniversary – 21 But what happens when the rules change? How have 1001 State St. Suite 1315 they reacted during a year when it seems every roll of Erie, Pa., 16501 ‘Modern emo kid’s take on ‘90s grunge’ gained the dice is coming up snake eyes? In some cases, quite into a BIG OPPORTUNITY, visit [email protected] national notice well. In this latest adventure of the Erie Reader, we ex- plore how local businesses of all classes and specializa- BIGIDEA.BenFranklin.org for The Erie Reader is published every other week and distributed at over Movie Reviews – 22 tions have fought back against the insidious new coro- details and entry form. 350 high foot-traffic locations in Two tantalizing takes on time travel navirus, using every resource and bit of ingenuity at Pennsylvania from North East to their disposal. You’ll see how a local plastics manufac- Girard to Edinboro. In addition to turer is actually growing, how a long-term care facility appearing in print, Erie Reader adds TV Reviews – 23 new content daily at ErieReader. has come together as a family, and how local bars and com as well as social media sites. International astronauts, reliving puberty, and restaurants have concocted compelling potions and All rights reserved. All content north-of-the-border drag queens elixirs to go. You’ll hear firsthand from those in person- © Flagship Multimedia, Inc, 1001 al services, dining and hospitality, and music and enter- State St., Suite 1315, Erie, Pa, 16501. No part of this publication In Our Ears: Podcasts We’ve Been Loving – 26 tainment about the actions they’ve taken in the face of may be reproduced without Our monthly picks for enthralling audio tremendous adversity. permission. The opinions of our We here at the Reader have been forced to make ad- columnists and contributors are justments of our own, although our character class their own and do not always reflect Summer Reads You Might Have Missed – 27 that of the editorial board or (Erie’s only independent alternative newspaper) and organization. Direct sales inquiries to Captivating mystery, romance, and literary fiction alignment (champions of all things local) remain the 814.314.9364. For editorial inquiries, same. So while we narrowly missed the originally email [email protected]. Cartoons – 29 scheduled publication date of our annual “Industry, In- Conspiracy theories, modern-day trolls, and the novation, and Entrepreneurship” (I2E) issue due to the drawbacks of buying bulk onset of the pandemic, we’ve summoned up its spiri- tual successor in this edition. This time, though, we’re Album Reviews – 30 adding one important word to the mix — adaptation. If we are all to survive and be our fittest, we must Wasted Info, waveform*, Anjimile, and a various match our capabilities to our realities. Some have al- artists tribute to Black Flag ready fallen and others will fall — the campaign drags on and the rules change, and they haven’t always Crossword Puzzle – 31 seemed fair. It’s been a grind. But with any luck, per- This month’s latest stumper from David Levinson Wilk haps we can level up as a community before this is all over.

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4 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com September 23, 2020 NEWS & VIEWS Living and Making a Living Through the Pandemic How COVID-19 is impacting our lives, the way we live, and our livelihoods

Since the COVID-19 pandemic arrived in Erie County on March 18, case counts have had their ups and downs, although they’ve remained notably lower than other parts of Pennsylvania. Meanwhile, the local economy faces a long road to recovery, but it has begun to recoup some of the 22,000 jobs lost, especially in the decimated leisure and hospitality sector.

stitute of Erie and associate professor of economics at Penn State Behrend. “According to the government statis- tics, our total output nationally, what we call the real gross domestic product, fell by almost 32 percent in the second quarter.” That drop followed a 5 percent drop in the first quarter of the year, Louie adds. “But things are improving slightly,” Louie says, pointing to the decline of national unemployment, which has fallen to 8.4 percent with the addition of 1.4 million jobs in August. But GDP is

DENISISMAGILOV / ERIE READER DENISISMAGILOV just one way to measure the economy. Adding jobs is one thing. Having con- The confirmed total case count num- itive case count. It is the 15th most pop- sumers able — and confident enough By: Ben Speggen bers follow a similar pattern, with the ulous county. — to make purchases is another. y the time this story makes its U.S. accounting for 6.5 million out of These are the numbers of our nation, Erie, like much of the rest of the coun- way to my editor’s desk, the num- the world’s 29.6 million, or 22 percent. our commonwealth of Pennsylvania, try, has not been immune to the eco- Bbers will be higher. Even more so Reported deaths per day peaked and county, where we are now more nomic trauma of COVID-19. by the time it is published. on May 6, with 2,701 — 276 shy of the than six months into the pandemic. We “In the first four months, we lost al- Not just in the years to come but in number of people who died during the don’t know when and how it will stop, most 18 percent of our jobs, over 22,000 the coming days, readers, upon seeing terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. The but we do know they will increase. We jobs,” Louie reports. “But the good news these numbers here, will likely pause daily death rate then began to decline also know that the toll of the COVID-19 is since April jobs have increased, and to then reference their date of publica- through the end of June. But as sum- pandemic isn’t solely measured in lives, we’ve gradually added back.” tion. “Oh, that’s where we were then.” mer wore on, the numbers again rose, but also how we live as well as our live- Between April and July (local data is As of 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. with the highest reported deaths in the lihoods. only available up to July), the Erie econ- 16, six months to the day since Penn- U.S. since May occurring on Aug. 12 at omy has added more than 8 percent of sylvania Governor Tom Wolf first put 1,486. The Cost of Action its jobs back. social distancing restrictive measures But in April, before May’s spike, the Initially, businesses deemed life-sus- He points to other good signs for in place in the name of public safety total confirmed death count in the taining and/or essential remained op- Erie’s economy and its recovery. Indus- and health to curb the spread of the United States surpassed what the na- erational in their spaces. Of the rest of trial production, he notes, is showing novel coronavirus, the Center for Dis- tion experienced during the Vietnam the lot, those whose jobs afforded them signs of improvement, meaning that ease Control and Prevention report- War, a grim milestone that gave context the opportunity to do so began work- the economy is “gearing up in terms of ed 194,092 COVID-19-related deaths in to the mounting toll the virus was tak- ing from home. Those who couldn’t, its output.” America. Total confirmed cases, to date, ing in months, not years. couldn’t work and could only wait for Additionally, the manufacturing sec- stand at 6.5 million. Since then, the U.S. has lost more than further updates. tor, which, as Louie notes, in previous To put it into global perspective: there two additional Vietnam Wars-worth of The Congressional Budget Office re- recessions “has faced lots of challeng- are 330 million Americans living from American lives and averages 9/11-sized ported that from February to April, es,” hasn’t suffered as much as retail or sea to shining sea, making up just 4 death counts in single-digit spans of unemployment rates rose from 3.5 per- leisure and hospitality, the “hardest-hit percent of the world’s total population. days. cent to 14.7, with 25 million more people sector.” And yet the U.S. to date accounts for Pennsylvania, with its 151,081 con- filing for unemployment. Sectors sup- “During the first four months of the more than one-fifth of the worldwide firmed positive cases, ranks 12th high- ported by in-person interactions felt year, the worst part of the pandemic, total deaths from the novel coronavi- est amongst the states and territories. the impact more deeply. The hospital- they lost almost 10,000 jobs — that was rus, which claimed its first reported Nearly 8,000 have proven fatal, where ity and leisure sector lost a reported 8 about 70 percent of their employment,” American life on Feb. 29, 2020. The first the state ranks ninth overall. million of its 17 million jobs. he adds. case in Erie County surfaced on March Erie County, with 1,439 positive cases “Nationally, we went into recession as Since April, however, the sector has 18, 2020, and the first death was record- and 37 deaths confirmed, ranks 22nd of February,” says Dr. Kenneth Louie, added back about 5,000 jobs, offsetting ed on April 23, 2020. out of 67 Pennsylvania counties in pos- director of the Economic Research In- about 50 percent of the losses in Erie.

September 23, 2020 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 5 NEWS & VIEWS

Jobs being added back into the econo- “We don’t pay enough attention to “the importance of swift government In the same feature, it was reported my are aligning mostly with where the debt levels and what economists might action.” that again Erie County’s largest em- economy experienced losses, according call over-leveraging,” he says. “Whether it’s providing fact-based, ob- ployer was Erie Insurance. to Louie, but the hospitality and leisure According to Louie, “We have to look jective information so that people can In March, Martin also reported that sector is adding jobs more quickly. at debt levels specifically to avoid make better decisions, or whether it’s those more than 3,100 locally-based When envisioning a road to recov- over-leveraging — that is, over-extend- directing policies that will coordinate Erie Insurance employees would begin ery while still on the pandemic’s path- ing ourselves at the individual level in our responses, or whether it’s provid- working from home throughout the way without an end in sight, it may be terms of households who borrow more ing assistance in the form of stimulus pandemic. A date when they — and the tempting to look to recent history for than they can sustain, and at the na- or unemployment benefits, whatever nearly 6,000 Erie Insurance employees guidance. That recent history would be tional level, the government level.” the policies are, swift government ac - working across 12 states and the Dis- the Great Recession. But short-term measures shouldn’t tion, when it’s a crisis of the national trict of Columbia — would return to Not entirely recession-proof — the remain long-term solutions, Louie cau- level, is crucial to help us get through their physical offices was not then and Erie economy lost 8,900 jobs, or 6.6 tions, and once the economy is stabi- the crisis collectively.” has still yet to be determined. percent — Erie weathered that storm lized, debt should be reined in. Because without an us, there is no “Our priority is to keep our employees better because of one of its advantag- Call it echoing or repeating; either economy. safe and to keep our company fiscally es, Louie cites: its stable housing mar- way, history is now present: Like the healthy,” says Tim NeCastro, Erie Insur- ket. With relatively low housing prices Great Recession, the COVID-19 eco- Insurance in the Time of COVID ance’s president and CEO, who guided without a boom experienced during nomic recession is schooling us in our In a Feb. 17, 2019 feature for the Erie the adaptation to the work-from-home growth, there simply wasn’t as much inequities, Louie points out. Times-News, Jim Martin reported that setting over the course of four days. to bust. “Whether you look at it along ethnic while no single restaurant ranked in “When we first decided we were going “The difference now with the pan- lines or socio-economic lines, income Erie County’s top 50 employers by vol- to send our workforce to a remote situ- demic is that, from a medical stand- bracket lines, the more vulnerable ume, the group, as a whole, represent- ation, I should note that followed many point, the virus doesn’t discriminate, people sometimes unfortunately bear ed the No. 1 employment sector when years of planning and tabletop exercis- really, irrespective of metro area, size, the brunt,” Louie says. “We need to pay accounting for both part- and full-time es and even live-attempts to do it.” or economic structure or populations,” more attention to the disproportionate employees. An early observation found that the Louie explains. “It has hit just about ev- consequences by certain groups for in- “In other words, more of us work in pandemic affected certain areas of the erywhere there is possibility of trans- equity.” the restaurant industry than in any company more than others. Rather mission.” The last key lesson Louie believes we other part of the economy,” Martin than furlough employees, the company Yet, lessons are still there to learn. can learn from the Great Recession is wrote. created a program to shift employees

6 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com September 23, 2020 NEWS & VIEWS JESSICA HUNTER JESSICA with less or little to do to areas of the Prior to COVID-19, Erie Insurance President company where the volume of work and CEO Tom NeCastro had anticipated this $135 million office building, located had increased. just east of Perry Square, to be buzzing with “We’re trying to do our best to make employees by now. Instead, 3,100 locally- sure that employees are productive based Erie Insurance employees continue to but not overwhelmed.” work from home, as they have since March. The company has maintained its existing employee base, but internal their checks were — in addition to the moves and promotions created vacan- rate reduction not offered by all other cies that led to 100 new hires. Erie In- companies — Erie Insurance decided to surance had projected to hire closer to double-down on their customers and 600 new employees throughout 2020. cut checks, too. Many Experts, Due to COVID, the ribbon-cutting “We essentially returned $400 million for the new building on its campus, a in premium to policyholders — $200 $135-million investment, has been post- million in cash, and $200 million in One Focus poned and the schedule delayed two reductions that we’re taking over the months. Originally, Erie Insurance ex- next 12 months,” NeCastro explains. pected to open the doors in August; Ne- NeCastro remains optimistic about Castro says the building will be ready both Erie Insurance and Erie’s future for occupancy by the end of the year. — both that the end of the pandemic Medical Associates of Erie introduces In addition to the campus growth, will come, and that Erie’s progress will Erie Insurance had been projecting continue. bottom-line growth, this year at 5 per- “The hope I get is coming from other Jennifer Stull, DO cent, but expects to finish less than 1 people, whether it’s my family mem- percent overall given the pandemic’s bers, my friends, and certainly our em- impact, according to NeCastro. ployees, our board of directors — the “Our industry is projected to shrink people that I’m around mostly do fully somewhere around 3 percent,” NeCas- believe we’re going to come out of it Jennifer Stull, DO, is a gynecologist specializing in tro explains. A solid year during bad stronger than ever — and think that reproductive health care for women of all ages. She times compared to the industry. He coming out of it is eminent, like it’s not credits the company’s 95-year history something that it’s a decade away, that brings over 15 years of experience to the LECOM in creating a strong surplus to “endure it’s around the corner.” Health family. Dr. Stull will practice at several tough situations.” He points to redevelopment efforts Industry challenges vary. On the com- downtown that have endured, from locations in Erie County. She is currently accepting mercial side, businesses are shuttering the continued acquisition of property new patients. their doors, meaning they’re canceling in the Erie Downtown Development policies. Too, individual policyholders Corporation footprint, to the recently To schedule an appointment at an office near may be using their policies less and awarded $21-million grant for Bayfront you, visit LECOMHealth.com/physicians. purchasing fewer policies. development. To continue building relationships “If we could get some leaders togeth- with their consumers, Erie Insurance er and shine a light back on the rede- announced a 5 percent rate reduction velopments, it would help give the to policyholders. Other insurance com- community renewed hope that, yeah, panies issued checks to their policy- this isn’t over,” he says. “The flame is holders, and after fielding phone calls still burning here, the pilot lights are from policyholders wondering where on in, the gas is ready to go.” Visit LECOMHealth.com

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8 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com September 23, 2020 NEWS & VIEWS

Comfort Food in Crisis most of its management team intact managing the new food hall in the That gradual improvement comes “March 16 was the day that was prob- throughout the crisis, then focused EDDC footprint. Interviews for ven- thanks to something humans have ably the scariest day for Red Letter,” on the immediate: Keep the proverbial dors were halted at the onset, but the been doing since, well, before we be- says Annē Lewis, director of market- lights on. Lewises have the timeline back on came humans: Adapting. Not in terms ing of Red Letter Hospitality, which “That’s what we have been doing for track with the anticipated announce- of evolution but rather the change of owns and operates The Cork 1794, the last six months — just looking for ment of the vendors coming Oct. 1. our behaviors given our circumstance The Skunk and Goat, and Molly Bran- those opportunities,” Billy says. “You While Molly’s has been offline in-per- of crisis. nigan’s in Erie County, and three Core- know, run into the fire versus running son, Billy notes that since being able “You will see jobs coming back at a Life Eatery establishments in North- away from it — that’s what we did.” to seat patrons, both indoors and out- slow pace, as we gradually adapt to liv- eastern Ohio. He admits he wasn’t sure their first doors at the other restaurants, RLH ing with the virus, and we’re already “We felt for the safety of our guests pivot would be a path they could con- is not significantly down in terms of doing that,” Louie says. “We are already and our employees that we were go- tinue. But the community responded overall revenue. However, outdoor learning how to live with those con- ing to shut down — so we were the positively, so RLH kept going. dining — something that won’t be straints, whether it’s social distanc- first ones to do that,” adds Billy Lewis, In the spirit of why-run-three-kitch- available for much longer as summer ing, reducing capacity indoors. The co-owner and president of RLH. ens-when-you-can-use-two, after the gives way to fall with winter knocking critical turning point will come when “So that’s when we decided to be- first week, RLH shut down Molly’s en- on the door in Erie — has played a crit- that vaccine becomes widely available come a takeout-only business,” Annē tirely. Rather than lay any employees ical role. — then I am fairly confident that our says. Prior, the company had not pro- off, they divided Molly’s team between “We’re already starting to feel it over economy will once again resume its cessed online orders, but within 48 The Cork and Skunk and Goat. the last week as the temperatures are stable and possibly even more robust hours, RLH had adapted. Through the duration of the quaran- cooling down,” he says. “We would have trajectory.” In addition to not knowing what tine phase, takeout orders remained never made it at The Cork without the As Louie puts it: “That’s an optimistic other restaurants were about to do in steady, Annē says, but have since dou- outdoor seating. So as that becomes note to end on.” wake of the pandemic, RLH also did bled at the Skunk and Goat. less utilized, it’s going to be very diffi- “Because we have built up so much not know that Gov. Wolf would later In addition to providing free meals cult for us to maintain that pace,” add- momentum, all the exciting develop- that afternoon announce restrictions to employees, RLH has served more ing he anticipates a 30 percent drop in ments that have been taking place in his administration would be putting than 7,000 meals to various nonprofits revenue as he loses his outdoor dining. the central part of the city, on the Bay- in place statewide, including the shut- throughout the area, including front- “We can sit and complain, but at the front, all the research that’s coming tering of restaurants. line workers at the local hospitals, end of the day, we just have to move into our city, the Knowledge Park ac- The Lewises notified their 200-plus with the help of area sponsors. forward and do the best we can with tivities at Penn State Behrend — that’s employees of their plan and then is- “That was the one thing that we the parameters and guidelines that a considerable amount of momentum,” sued the media release. Next followed could do,” Annē explains. “Food brings are set for us,” Billy says. which Louie says is “ultimately what a conference call with employees to everyone together, food brings happi- is going to make Erie another success discuss details, from what was hap- ness, and food brings comfort.” The Road to Recovery is … for Now, story” in the coming years. pening to the restaurants to employ- RLH offered the meals at a discount- being Paved Slowly “And what I hope is that people won’t ees — what benefits packages covered ed rate, which sponsors covered, cre- Still, the questions of when and forget and won’t be so discouraged be- and would look like and how they’d ating a win-win — those who needed how the world will emerge from the cause they went through such a trau- support their entire team at the onset food got it, and RLH kept their em- COVID-19 looms. So does the question matic pandemic interval.” of the crisis. ployees working and paid. of how economies will recover. To foresee a post-COVID economy, “We made the decision that from “Trying to get innovative and survive “I think the best way to look at it is we must work to close the COVID-19 now until we reopen, we’ll have em- during those times,” Billy adds. in this way: It’s really going to be de- chapter of our story. The quicker we ployee meals every Saturday, free In North East, RLH donated meals termined by developments in the med- do that, the quicker we can get back to meals for the families of employees,” to area teachers in the school district ical arena, just quite bluntly, whether business. Annē notes. Managers began checking when classes resumed, as a way to we have a safe and effective vaccine,” in with their employees on a routine “show our appreciation and gratitude Dr. Louie says. “But it is more nuanced Ben Speggen can be contacted basis to see how they were doing, how for them,” as Annē puts it. than that. Even before that takes at bSpeggen@ErieReader. they were holding up during the crisis. Prior to the pandemic in Downtown place, we are likely to see continued com, and you can follow him RLH, which has been able to keep Erie, RLH had been working toward gradual improvement.” on Twitter @BenSpeggen

September 23, 2020 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 9 NEWS & VIEWS Going to the Polls vs. Mail-in Voting Why both are equally valid methods of exercising your right

A look at the seemingly innocuous Downtown Post Office. The Postal Service has become a subject of much speculation and hysteria, especially from the political right, due to the large role mail-in voting is set to play in this November’s elections.

Sowing doubt in the process seemed to be the intent. Any truth about mail- in ballots became distorted among unsupported claims that spread un- stoppably across social media. Many were confused about the differences between a ballot application, which they might have received in the mail, and an actual ballot. Some (but no- tably not many) Republican leaders pushed back against Trump’s claims along with Democratic leaders. This included former Republican Pennsyl- vania Governor Tom Ridge. “I think it’s very sad and very disap- pointing that … the president seems to [want to] try and delegitimize the Nov. 3 election,” Ridge said in June. “It just seems to me that this may be an indication he’s more worried about the outcome than he’s worried about fraud.” Ridge’s assurances on the safety of mail-in voting didn’t seem to have

JESSICA HUNTER JESSICA much of an impact for those who had already made up their mind though. The lawsuits didn’t help. In June, By: Jonathan Burdick cacy, sending out literally thousands mote fraud became nearly a daily Trump’s reelection campaign (along ast week, while taking my eve- of text messages and phone calls to talking point. Mail-in ballots were, he with members of Congress includ- ning stroll, a discarded political Pennsylvania residents to inform claimed, a way for Democrats to rig ing U.S. Reps. Mike Kelly and Glenn Lmailer on the ground caught my them of their right to vote by-mail in the election. He also began to claim Thompson) sued all 67 Pennsylvania attention. I stopped for a moment and the November election — made even without evidence that foreign coun- counties over mail-in voting, calling it, knelt down to look closer. On it was a more pertinent by the pandemic. We tries would counterfeit ballots, never without evidence, the “single greatest photo of Donald Trump, a fist trium- spoke with people of all political per- elaborating how they would be able threat to free and fair elections.” phantly at chest level with his other suasions, working through any ques- to circumvent safeguards such as in- The lawsuit would eventually be hand high above his head gesturing tions or concerns they had about the dividualized barcodes. thrown out due to the campaign’s number one. The mailer, which prom- process and helping them apply for a “Most Trump supporters are like me inability to provide any evidence of ised to put “America First” by “fighting ballot if they asked. — we trust Trump but no one else,” mail-in voter fraud, but the doubt, the for law and order” and “protecting us When we had agreed to the advocacy Frank Miller, a 51-year old Pennsyl- fears, that seething rage and fury had from the radical left” was addressed work, there were certainly some who vania business owner told Reuters in already ripped through every Penn- from the Republican Federal Commit- were skeptical and had worries about May. “When I see a Democrat pushing sylvania county, fueled by social me- tee of Pennsylvania out of Harrisburg. mail-in voting, a natural reaction to [mail-in voting], I know there must be dia, misleading memes, and the presi- “Support our great American come- any sort of change such as this. It was a sinister reason for it.” dent’s own tweets. back!” the mailer read. “Make a plan quite clear to me, though, when such “We are sending out hundreds of I probably shouldn’t have been sur- today to fill out one of the attached skepticism transformed into seething millions of universal mail-in ballots,” prised then when, during my advoca- General Election Ballot Request rage and fury. Trump lied in July. In one tweet, cy work, my wife and I were subjected forms.” In May, President Trump began he claimed mail-in voting would to (mostly unprintable) obscenities The irony of seeing this mailer pro- ramping up his rhetoric against mail- make for “the most INACCURATE & that would have made Gunnery Ser- moting mail-in ballots was not lost in ballots. He began by criticizing the FRAUDULENT election in history” geant Hartman blush. I began to doc- on me. My wife and I spent countless process, often distorting the truth, and even suggested that the United ument some of the responses. hours over the summer participating and by June, his claims of mail-in States delay in the election until it “You’re a scumbag liar,” one man told in nonpartisan mail-in ballot advo- ballots being a deliberate tool to pro- was safe to vote in person. me in one of the tamer hostile conver-

10 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com September 23, 2020 NEWS & VIEWS sations. He added that I was going to position had changed. A read receipt Little Italy receive a $500 fine for contacting him showed that they read my message, after he got in touch with the Depart- but again, I didn’t receive a response. Farmers Market ment of Justice. Journalist Matthew Rink has ex- “What a bunch of s--t,” one woman pertly been covering our local mail-in responded. “So easy to cheat and they voting saga for the Erie Times-News. 331 West 18th Street will have no idea who fills them out As early as 2018, long before no-excuse and then who touches it in the mail. mail-in voting was legalized in Penn- I hope people don’t fall for this crap.” sylvania, he wrote about his own ex- “We have seen time and time periences in a neighboring state. EVERY MONDAY again, the Democrats cheat,” another “Having spent more than 13 years 3:00 - 6:00 PM claimed, stating that the need to vote in Ohio, a state with early voting, I’ve by mail was highly overrated and the found Pennsylvania’s electoral pro- JUNE 29 - SEPT 28 pandemic was overhyped. cess to be rather restrictive, even ar- I heard a variation of “if you can go cane, since returning home last sum- to Wal-Mart, you can vote in person” mer,” he wrote then. at least a dozen times. Rink also recently reported on how “I do not support your attempt at in the latest primary, “mail-in voting Featuring produce from voter fraud by fixing an election with accounted for half of all ballots cast Act 77, so shut up,” another person in Erie County with 21,795 Democrats several local farms, including said. “Lies, lies, lies!” voting by mail compared with 7,764 Act 77 was signed into Pennsylvania Republicans.” the SSJNN Urban Farm Project. law by Governor Tom Wolf in October On Aug. 4, President Trump suggest- 2019, months before the pandemic. ed that voting by mail was safe if you Please wear a mask for the It codified no-excuse mail-in voting were doing it in Florida. “Whether in the state and received bipartisan you call it Vote by Mail or Absentee safety of all. support in Harrisburg from local Re- Voting, in Florida the election system publicans including State Sen. Dan is Safe and Secure, Tried and True,” he Laughlin and Reps. Brad Roae and wrote. “[I]n Florida I encourage all to Curt Sonney. request a Ballot & Vote by Mail!” Little Italy Farmers Market doubles “Compromise has given Pennsylva- He didn’t elaborate on why it was nians a modernized election code that safe in Florida, but when pressed by SNAP, WIC and FMNP Senior Vouchers! preserves the integrity of the ballot a White House reporter the follow- box and makes it easier for voters ing day, he stated: “So Florida has got to choose the people who represent a great Republican governor and it them,” Republican Senate Majority had a great Republican governor. Ron Leader Jake Corman said at the time. DeSantis, Rick Scott, two great gover- For more info call: 814-454-7814 Republican House Majority Lead- nors. … Florida is different from other er Bryan Cutler echoed these senti- states.” Online: www.SSJNN.org ments, saying the bill was “not writ- The reality is that mail-in voting Facebook or Twitter: @SSJNN ten to benefit one party or the other” is safe and secure and in states that and served to “preserve the integrity have already been doing this for of every election.” years, there is no evidence of wide- How this had months later become spread fraud. You can even track your so divisive and politicized baffled ballot online throughout the entirety me, especially considering the Penn- of the process. If you aren’t able to Erie County Human sylvania Republican Party’s support vote in-person for whatever reason, earlier. In the midst of my advocacy, you can request an absentee or mail- Relations Commission perhaps a bit worn down from all of in ballot online at votespa.com or the F-bombs being hurled at me daily, in-person at the Erie County Board of The Erie County Human Relations Commission (ECHRC) works to eliminate I messaged the Erie County Republi- Elections office. discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodations can Party directly to ask their stance The deadline to request a ballot is through identification, consultation, and investigation of complaints. on mail-in voting. Oct. 27, although it would be wise to “We are against it!” was their full re- request and send your ballot back (or • The ECHRC provides a system of equal justice for employer–employee, landlord– sponse. I followed up, explaining that drop them off at the election office tenant, business–patron, and lending institution–homebuyer. I had done it for the primary, that it or in the secured drop-box outside of appeared safe and secure and even the Erie County Courthouse) as early ECHRC’s Ordinance makes it unlawful to discriminate against protected provided online tracking of my ballot. as possible. classes that include: I asked directly what their concerns Whatever method you choose, just were about mail-in voting. I didn’t re- be sure to vote. • Race; Color; Family Status; Religious Creed; Ancestry; Age; Sex; National Origin; Sexual ceive a response. Orientation; Disability; Gender Identity; Criminal History; and Source of Income. I reached out again this past week. I Jonathan Burdick runs the historical brought up the mailer that I had seen blog Rust & Dirt. He can be reached 1001 State Street, Suite 812 • Erie, PA 16501 during my walk and asked if their at [email protected]. eriecountygov.org/hrc • [email protected] • 814-451-7021

September 23, 2020 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 11 NEWS & VIEWS Berry Global Thrives in Erie Essential plastic closure business is open and humming

Berry Global, located at 316 W. 16th St. in was a drop in demand for food that Erie’s historic Little Italy, manufactures comes in large containers, such as sal- plastic closures for food and beverage containers. Production has not only ad dressings for restaurants, there has continued, but increased, as the pandemic been an increase in other lines. “There has worn on. are definitely more individuals cook- ing at home, so with some sandwich his wife were vacationing in Seattle. spreads, those volumes went up,” he “I like coffee,” said Guthrie, who had said. “Early on, we saw a surge in wa- checked out the original Starbucks in ter bottles, when people went out and Seattle at the time. “I looked online to bought cases of water.” see if there was a Starbucks in Erie and The Erie plant has not had one con- the first Starbucks had just opened firmed case of COVID-19. “Whenever on State Street. ‘OK, they have a Star- someone has symptoms, we tell them bucks. I have to go there,’” he recalled to stay home,” Guthrie said. An outside with a laugh. handwashing station has been set up. Guthrie and Christen Brown, human Employees wear masks, and there is resources manager, are both proud of deep cleaning inside the plant every the fact that the company provides four hours. jobs with wages that “people can live Guthrie said his biggest worry during

LIZ ALLEN on,” in Guthrie’s words. The work is also the pandemic has been about the steady. Berry has employees who grew well-being of the workers, “particularly up in Little Italy, began working there workers with young families, with kids By: Liz Allen Italy, and they serve as an eye-catcher right after high school, and stayed to in school affected by daycare closings,” when the Historic Little Italy Business retirement age. Shipp, the plant engi- he said. “My biggest concern is their n historic Little Italy, in a plant Association holds bimonthly brown- neer, has been with Berry for 25 years. ability to maintain their lives.” where workers once built hulking bag lunch meetings in the conference Every quarter, the number of five-year With retirements and with some Isteam locomotives, Berry Global room, courtesy of Berry. (Those meet- service awards increases, said Brown. additional work coming to the plant, showcases the best of Erie’s manufac- ings are now being held virtually be- The company also is committed to Berry Global in Erie is looking to hire turing culture — offering reliable fami- cause of COVID-19.) both initial training and retraining, about a half-dozen new employees, ly-sustaining jobs and encouraging for- Bob Guthrie became Berry’s plant when needed. “You can make a decent Guthrie said. ward-looking thinking. manager in 2001, about the same time living. We’re looking for folks who have In addition to a commitment to train Part of a company with 50,000 em- that the Sisters of St. Joseph were can- mechanical ability. We’re looking for new hires and to upgrade their skills ployees worldwide, Berry’s local plant vassing the neighborhood to ask resi- the intellect, the initiative, the integ- periodically, Berry also has developed a makes plastic closures, mostly for food dents about their most pressing needs rity,” Brown said, borrowing a quote strong working relationship with engi- and beverage customers, in a rainbow in preparation for the opening of the from Warren Buffett. “We do a lot of neering students from Penn State Beh- of colors and an array of sizes: blue lids Sisters of St. Joseph Neighborhood promoting from within into a skilled rend’s Innovation Commons, according for Hellman’s Mayonnaise, orange for Network. position,” she added. to both Guthrie and Jake Marsh, indus- Gatorade, black for Powerade, green for At the time, fencing and barbed wire When Brown holds small group meet- try relations coordinator for the Inno- DaSani water bottles, purple and oth- surrounded the plant, located at 316 W. ings with employees to discuss their vation Commons. er hues for Naked fruit juice, among 16th St. The sisters suggested that per- career goals, she likes to ask them: “It’s a great company to work with,” many other items for clients. haps those barriers could come down. “What’s making you stick around?” It’s said Marsh. Part of the manufacturing facility is Today, the plant’s grounds are open and the reliable nature of their jobs, they In 2015, Penn State unveiled an ini- still housed in the old building with nicely landscaped, a vibrant visual in- tell her. tiative for each campus to find ways massive brick walls — perhaps as thick troduction to the manufacturing facil- Berry Global continues to seek out to support small businesses, inventors as four feet — that once housed Heisler ity, which is bright, clean, and inviting. new markets, including drinkable yo- and startups. With funding from an Locomotive Works, which made That welcoming culture extends to gurt, energy drinks, non-dairy refresh- Invent Penn State seed grant and from gear-driven steam engines, primarily employees, who are encouraged to ask ments and cold-brewed coffee. (It also the Erie County Gaming Revenue Au- used for logging. The Lake Shore Rail- friends and family to apply for jobs at makes caps for motor oil.) thority’s “Ignite Erie” program, Innova- way Historical Society and Museum Berry, said Guthrie. “We want a work Serving diversified customers helps tion Commons opened in January 2016. has a Heisler in its collection. environment that encourages people Berry to avoid becoming “vulnerable” “We want an entrepreneur to have all After rolled-up structural blueprints to bring your friends,” he said. to a dip in any one market. they need to succeed,” said Marsh. for the Heisler factory from 1922 were In Erie, Berry Global employs about In fact, Berry Global, deemed an es- Innovation Commons is part of the discovered, Ralph Shipp, plant engi- 150 people, and there will soon be job sential business, has remained open Innovation Beehive in Erie County, in neer, framed the prints, as detailed and openings as longtime employees retire throughout the pandemic, Guthrie which Behrend, Edinboro University precise as computer-generated docu- in the next couple of months. said. of Pennsylvania, Gannon University, ments would be today, to hang on the “We’re looking for employees who “We make food packaging and we nev- Mercyhurst University, and the Erie conference room wall. The prints are want to build a career,” said Guthrie, er stopped production,” he said. “Some County Library each specialize in aid- an acknowledgment of the factory’s who agreed to transfer from Illinois to customers are up, some are down, but ing business innovation. heritage and its importance to Little Erie after his boss called while he and overall, our business is up.” While there Behrend’s niche is offering prototyp-

12 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com September 23, 2020 NEWS & VIEWS

Bob Guthrie, Berry Global plant manager, Not every student with a background stands beside framed blueprints of the at Innovation Commons will start a Heisler Locomotive Works from 1922. business. But they will bring an in- Manufacture of Heislers at its factory in novation mindset to their employers, Erie’s Little Italy neighborhood ceased in 1941. contributing ideas on how to improve processes, Marsh said. The benefits of Innovation Commons And because of Berry Global’s work don’t just accrue to the business receiv- with the Innovation Commons and ing consulting services. For engineer- Plant Manager Bob Guthrie’s enthusi- ing students, it’s a way to learn about astic embrace of innovation, the solu- various business environments, to tions devised by Behrend students build up “killer references” for future “may get implemented at a global lev- employment, and to gain confidence to el,” said Marsh. become an innovator. John Nowakowski III, owner of the Liz Allen has participated in recycling start-up Bayfront Glass, LLC, numerous Zoom sessions during

LIZ ALLEN earned his master’s degree in manufac- the pandemic but her Zoom turing management at Behrend and interview with Jake Marsh was her ing services to innovators and free en- of the fast-moving machines becomes served as a student manager of Inno- first use of that technology for a gineering consulting services to busi- jammed. The jam no longer breaks a vation Commons. Bayfront Glass is reporting project. You can reach nesses. tool that could cost as much as $10,000 one of at least 10 start-ups nurtured at her at [email protected]. At Berry Global, Behrend engineering to replace. Instead, the computer pro- Innovation Commons. Another is M2 students are consulting on 3D printing, gram triggers action that breaks the Additive Manufacturing, which builds Berry Global, 316 W. 16th St., expects which has resulted in “major cost sav- part made with the 3D printer — a part flexible 3D components. Michael Paul, to hire at least six new workers in ings” for the company, said Marsh. He that will be replaced economically. a Behrend grad in electrical engineer- coming months. Interested applicants explained that a part that might have The goal of Innovation Commons ing who also served as a manager at should visit www.berryglobal.com, cost up to $1,000 to replace can now be isn’t simply to do a job for a client; it’s Innovation Commons, and Behrend click on careers and then on the Erie made with a 3D printer for about $3. also to teach the business how to do student Michael Gibilterra, who also location. Bob Guthrie, plant manager, In addition, Behrend students wrote a the job itself. Berry is now buying its worked at Innovation Commons, start- said the company is stepping up its computer program that kicks in if one own 3D printers, Marsh said. ed M2 Additive. use of social media to recruit workers.

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[top left] The Lawrence Park Dinor, a fixture on it’s foundation at 4019 Main St. The on Main Street since 1948, introduced Curtis family lived in a little one bed- outdoor seating for the first time ever room house that sits behind the Dinor this summer in response to the COVID-19 to this day. They chose Lawrence Park pandemic. [bottom right] Plexiglass barriers now separate individual dining booths, for the location in order to cater to the but otherwise the original aesthetic of the massive workforce at GE at the time. Lawrence Park Dinor remains unchanged. The Dinor ran 24 hours back then to accommodate all shifts at the plant. In rence Park Dinor remains as intended. their first year of business in 1948, they The Standleys spent a lot of time re- made over $70,000. That amount would storing the exterior of the Dinor, which equate to approximately $750,000 to- was painted over many times through day which is very impressive, as the the course of the last 72 years. They fare at the Dinor then and now is mod- stripped off two layers of white paint, estly priced. a layer of red, and a layer of blue to un- “One of the things I like about the cover the original porcelain enamel. Dinor, is that it is basically recession Rick also points out that the interior proof,” Rick explains. “Even if some- ceiling is still the unpainted porcelain, thing happens to the economy, peo- and all the tile on the floors, counter ple will still want to go out to eat, but

ERIN PHILLIPS kick plate, and bathrooms is vintage. they’ll do it on a tighter budget.” The The restaurant also still uses the orig- Dinor will always accommodate that By: Erin Phillips had any restaurant management or inal stainless steel refrigerators, steam tight budget, with its affordable prices professional cooking experience. “I do table, cooktop, backsplash, milk cooler, and food without pretension. And they epperoni balls, ox roast, sponge come from a long history of this kind and drawers. All of the mechanisms have enjoyed great success during their candy … “dinors?” There are some of work,” Becky reflects. “My grandpar- and compressors inside the appliances ownership. They have been Trip Advi- Pthings in this world that are ents owned a tavern in Lackawanna have been modernized, but they still sor’s top restaurant in Erie for 7 years unique to Erie alone. A diner certainly and my parents owned the Dairy Delite retain the old-time look that gives the running. As a result, they get a lot of isn’t, but the strange way of spelling it in McKean in the ’80s as well as a tiny Dinor its charm. traffic from out-of-towners. When is. Almost all of the old, mid-century bar called the Blue Star Tavern, so I When the Standleys first purchased they took ownership of the Dinor, they diners in Erie are spelled that way. No kind of had it in my blood.” After pur- the Dinor, they received a letter from made the decision to be open on Sun- one knows for sure, but some specu- chasing the Dinor, Becky worked side the son of the original owners, Larry days and, in doing so, nearly doubled late that it is an old typo that caught by side with Gourlais for a month to Curtis, who now lives in Texas, giving their business. on or some German derivative, but one learn the ropes. Rick took photos of all them some early history. His mother Not only is the Dinor recession-proof, thing is certain: it’s only spelled that the recipes and videos of the processes. and father originally paid $20,000 for it it seems it is pandemic-proof as well. way in Northwestern Pennsylvania. They have mostly kept the menu the in 1948, when it was delivered and set After the initial shut down in March, The spelling of the word isn’t the only same, with some small tweaks, other- thing that is unique about the “dinor” wise very little has changed over the on Main Street in Lawrence Park. This years. 1948 prefabricated, train car style din- The same is true for the look of the er has been a part of the fabric of the Dinor. Its charm is in the original feel; if township for so long, it has secured its you picture a 1950s diner in your head it place in local and national history. It will likely look and feel an awful lot like was placed on the National Register of the Lawrence Park Dinor. It was origi- Historic Places in 2004 and is the only nally manufactured by Silk City Diners diner in Pennsylvania to hold such a which was a division of the Paterson distinction. Vehicle Company in Paterson New Jer- The current owners, Becky and Rick sey. They produced 1,500 diners from Standley, were drawn to the Lawrence 1926-1966 that were shipped all over the Park Dinor because of its long history US. The exterior of the Dinor is porce- and old-timey feel. In 2010, the couple lain enamel with a fluted stainless steel found themselves at a crossroads in band and a monitor roof that runs its their lives as Becky lost her job in man- length and two stainless steel doors ufacturing and, after much delibera- with porthole windows. The interior tion, they decided to take the risk and of the Dinor has a long counter with buy the Dinor. It was up for sale be- barstools and an open, stainless steel cause former owner George Gourlais, kitchen, with booths along the win- who ran the Dinor for nearly 20 years, dows. The vaulted ceiling is made up of was ready to retire. Rick had to do a bit curved porcelain panels. Pretty much

of convincing as neither he nor Becky all of the original character of the Law- ERIN PHILLIPS

14 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com September 23, 2020 FEATURE

EXAMINE THE PAST. OBSERVE THE PRESENT. ERIN PHILLIPS EXPLORE the Lawrence Park Dinor remained Becky and Rick Standley purchased the closed for 3 months, deciding on how Lawrence Park Dinor in 2010, learning all best to move forward. The Standleys the ins and outs of restaurant management THE FUTURE. were in the fortunate position to not from former owner George Gourlais. They had been looking to pass on the tradition have a mortgage on the Dinor and since to new ownership this year, but COVID-19 BE A PART OF Rick was still employed elsewhere, delayed those plans. they took their time and reopened in June with all the precautions in place. amidst the uncertainty of the restau- PROGRESS. They temporarily removed the original rant business during an unpredictable side door (safely storing it for its even- pandemic. So for now, those plans of tual return) and installed a pick up win- retirement are on hold and Becky and dow in its place. They built plexiglass Rick will continue on until, hopefully, dividers between the booths. The bar- they can find a cash buyer or the pan- stools are marked off to allow for so- demic ends. Either way, you can sense The Conversations Must Go On! cial distancing and there are plexiglass Becky’s disappointment. She was ready New Livestreamed Events Coming Soon: barriers hanging between the counter to be done and pass the torch (as well and the cooking area. Once summer ar- as the recipes, techniques, and historic rived, they converted the small grassy building) on to a new owner. area between the Dinor and the park- In the meantime, the Standleys plan • SEPT. 29 TO OCT. 27 AT NOON: ing lot into an outdoor seating area. All to keep the Dinor open and running in all, they adjusted quickly and well to — and continue making food that “American Tapestry Series” with Dr. Andrew Roth the changes, so much so that they had people keep coming back for, whether met their goal of reaching 50 percent it is for dining in, dining outside, or to of their monthly sales for July by mid- go. The typical diner fare, such as club • FRIDAYS FROM NOON TO 1 P.M.: month. sandwiches and old fashioned milk- “Mindfulness with Penny Mechley-Porter” The pandemic less adversely affected shakes, is all accounted for on the Di- the business than it did a long-term nor’s menu. But what people really love personal goal that was within sight: re- most are Becky’s homemade soups and • OTHER TOPIC HIGHLIGHTS: tirement. Before COVID hit, the Stand- pie — and, of course, another famous- leys had placed the Dinor up for sale. ly Erie phenomenon in “Greek Sauce,” Assassination of Lincoln, Harmful Algal Blooms, Becky was ready to be done with the available traditionally on burgers and Mystics, Elected Erie County Women, Presidential all-day-everyday work of the restau- dogs, but here also in omelette form. rant and was looking forward to spend- Becky and Rick plan to help the new Elections, the 2020 Elections, a Civil War ing more time with her grandchildren. owner just like Gourlais helped them, Roundtable, Renewed Prosperity for Great Lakes At the beginning of March, it seemed to teach them the recipes and process- like that goal was about to become a re- es so the Dinor can continue to provide Communities, and more. ality when an offer came in. And then, consistently good, comforting, afford- right before they were able to close on able food for the people of Lawrence the deal, the stay-at-home order went Park and beyond well into the future. into effect and it all got put on hold. Af- ter reopening, the bank was reluctant, Erin Phillips runs the Instagram @ To learn more about Jefferson set multiple parameters the business olderieonfoot, an in-depth look at local needed to meet (which they did) but architecture “by foot, stroller, papoose, programming and publications, then ultimately rescinded the deal bike, and occasionally minivan.” visit us at: www.JESErie.org

September 23, 2020 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 15 FEATURE 40 Under 40 Alumni Continue to Show Moxie Despite challenging year, individuals show no quit

From left to right, Erie’s 40 Under 40 alumni Kate Neubert-Lechner (2014), director of the Erie Playhouse; Sara McMillan Guerrein (2018), owner of Moxi Hair Salon; and Matt Texter (2018), musician and graphic designer.

landfills and keep our sustainable beauty mission going strong even in a global health pandemic.

Kate Neubert-Lechner, 2014 Executive Director, Erie Playhouse CJS: When you were part of the class of 2014, it was for your work with the Make-A-Wish Foundation; now, you are the executive director at the Erie Playhouse. Your original write-up cit- ed your ability to inspire and bring joy to people, especially young peo- ple and their families, in our area. Do you feel that stepping into your new role at the Playhouse broadened your ability to do this? Kate Neubert-Lechner (KNL): I ab- solutely feel like I have been able to expand my ability to reach our com- munity in positive ways! Shortly after being part of the class of 2014, I was hired as the Youtheatre/edu- CONTRIBUTED/CURTIS WAIDLEY/CONTRIBUTED CONTRIBUTED/CURTIS cation director at the Playhouse and By: Cara Suppa into five diverse and talented stylists. opportunity to grow as a business was in that position before being Personally, I recently became engaged owner and leader. hired to serve as the executive direc- he newest class of Erie’s 40 and we had our wedding planned for CJS: Now that you are able to open tor. During my time as Youtheatre Under 40 has just been inau- July 3, 2020. Due to COVID-19 we re- up again, have you found any ad- director, I was able to develop and Tgurated, but innovation, entre- scheduled it for next July. ditional difficulties with the new administer the PLAYtime program in preneurship and civic engagement in CJS: There is no denying how dis- COVID-based regulations in place, conjunction with United Way’s Imag- the city never stops. We’re delighted proportionately difficult the era of while also keeping with the salon’s ination Library. My past and current to revisit three past recipients: Sara COVID has been for service-based mission of sustainability? position at the Playhouse have put McMillan (2018), Kate Neubert-Lech- businesses. Can you describe what SM: The standards the state board me in a position to connect with a ner (2014), and Matt Texter (2018), all the spring and summer were like for of cosmetology and CDC have set larger portion of the Erie Community of whom have continued the work of you and the staff at Moxi? for us are very close to what we have and to partner with many other orga- making Erie a better place to live and SM: Our last day of operations be- always adhered to. We have altered nizations to work to allow the arts to do business, and all of whom have fore the COVID shutdown was March the layout of the salon so all guests be an agent of change and growth in seen their personal and professional 14. We anticipated being closed for a are 10 feet or more apart and we nev- our area. lives disrupted by the COVID-19 pan- few weeks, we had no idea it would er have more than three clients and CJS: Obviously we have to address demic in a variety of ways. But they be 15! I kept in touch with them three stylists in the building. The the impact of COVID on a regional persist; let’s learn, and be inspired by, through daily and weekly check-ins clients stay in their chairs the entire theater like the Playhouse. Digital how. and we attempted a few Zoom meet- length of their visit to help control and streaming arts and entertain- ings to brainstorm ideas for reopen- cross-contamination … but the capac- ment got us through quarantine, but Sara McMillan , 2018 ing. I created a Facebook community ity dictates limit the amount of cli- live action performances took a huge Owner, Moxi Hair Salon group for local beauty business own- ents we can accommodate each day. hit. Simply put, how did you navigate Cara J. Suppa (CJS): Catch us up -- ers called “Erie Area Beauty Business Some of the new guidelines are very the Playhouse through the spring what’s new, what’s different with you Owners” — it grew into a wonderful, difficult to follow in an environmen- and summer? and the Moxi Hair salon since then? supportive community. tally friendly way, unfortunately. KNL: It has been a tremendously dif- Sara McMillan (SM): I purchased I spent a lot of time working on my Thankfully, our sustainability part- ficult time for all arts organizations a new location for Moxi at 1722 W. business during those 15 weeks. I ner Green Circle Salons has updated across the country and, of course, in Eighth St. in Nov. 2018. I spent six took the time to really dig deep into their intake process so we can now our area. We, unfortunately, had to months renovating it into an updated my business and the path of growth send them any PPE. So even after all furlough the majority of our staff at eco-conscious building and opened I want us to be on. I stayed optimistic the new protocol, we are still able to the beginning of the quarantine and it in March 2019! I’ve grown the team by viewing this situation as a great divert 95 percent of our waste from at this time have only been able to

16 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com September 23, 2020 FEATURE bring back two additional full-time before the pandemic, but as the pan- staffers and three part-time, and that demic came into full effect, I realized is all we’ll be able to do for the fore- that things weren’t the same before seeable future. and they definitely weren’t going to As you mentioned, we focused be the same after. on pivoting our programming to a I should say that I do plan on writ- strictly virtual platform, as we can- ing more and maybe recording an al- not safely bring patrons and per- bum, but I don’t really plan on play- formers into our space at this time. ing out too much moving forward, We tried to stay as active as possible for the foreseeable future. on social media platforms to stay en- CJS: Your write-up mentioned your gaged with our patrons. One positive local activism as something you hold of all this is that we have been able near and dear to your heart. It’s a to engage patrons and friends from huge election year; how have you all across the country who were for- stayed active in politics while still be- mer Erieites that have moved away, ing safe? but have loved being able to watch MT: In spite of the pandemic, I’ve performances at the Playhouse again been able to stay relatively active. and take classes from our staff! I am still the Ninth District, Sixth CJS: The state is now in the green Ward Precinct Democratic commit- phase, and things are starting to teeman, so we have our monthly open up again. Even more impres- meetings via Zoom. I’ve also been vol- sive is how creative organizations unteering with a great local organiza- have become in delivering their art tion called Erie United, helping with to the masses, both in-person and their text banks. Of course, I have my online. What can we look forward to own political leanings, but it’s been from the Playhouse in the coming good to be working with a great or- months? ganization to help mobilize people [of KNL: At this time, we do not know either party] to get them out to vote. when we’ll be able to open our doors, CJS: And finally, for all three of you, even as restrictions are loosening. To what is one thing that has gotten you maintain safety for our patrons, our through these tough months of 2020? maximum capacity would be around SM: My fiancé Phil has been my 20 percent, which is not, at this time, rock during all of this. He is an Erie a financially viable option for us, as Insurance employee, so he had a big production costs are significant in transition to working from home and our space, no matter how small the he still found the energy to be sup- production. We are currently work- portive during all of this. ing on planning a production in an There were some really rough days alternate space for the holidays, but and a lot of really good days. I tried to that’s all I can tell you at this point see the shutdown as a once in a life- … until I have a few more things tied time (hopefully!) opportunity to real- up, we can’t make a formal announce- ly spend quality time with my family. ment, but I can tell you that we hope KNL: It has been great to be able it will be a great opportunity for to spend more time at home with multiple Erie organizations and busi- my daughters, as you can imagine, nesses to work together to provide a pre-COVID, we did a lot of running COVID-safe holiday event for the en- around! I also love horror/sci-fi mov- tire family. ies and have been watching all of the older movies that I never saw … it has Matt Texter, 2018 been highly entertaining to watch Musician/Graphic Designer, all those early campy horror movies Lamar Advertising like Evil Dead and Friday the 13th and CJS: Catch us up! What’s new with such. you in the two years since you were MT: I would say that my handful of a recipient? close friends, and of course my fami- Matt Texter (MT): I am still work- ly. Complete isolation is good for no ing at Lamar Advertising, but not do- one, so understand the risks and lis- ing live music as much. ten to science; it’s a good way to fig- CJS: I’m glad you mentioned that, ure out how to still remain in contact because I noticed you pulled back with those you care about. from music. Did the pandemic have any effect on your decision? Cara Suppa can be reached at MT: I started pulling back a little bit [email protected]

September 23, 2020 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 17 The Music Returns!

Watch us on TV All concerts available for FREE on WQLN PBS!

2020 Viewing Guide

Oktoberfest The British Isles Thursday, October 8 @ 8pm Thursday, October 29 @ 8pm Sunday, October 11 @ 2pm Sunday, November 1 @ 2pm

With works of charm, sophistication, beauty and In this episode, we survey the expanse that makes rich drama, we explore some of the most adored music from this part of the world so lasting in our music to have even been performed on the world’s hearts, minds and spirits. concert stages.

Americana A Holiday Special Thursday, November 19 @ 8pm Thursday, December 17 @ 8pm Sunday, November 22 @ 2pm Sunday, December 20 @ 2pm

Next, we perform works from the nineteenth December is a time for families to relive treasured century to present day, showcasing how America’s traditions, reconnect with loved ones and sing composers can take traditional dance, song and songs of old. Tune in for a memorable TV special rhythm, and infuse it all with a distinctive new voice. celebrating the holiday spirit!

eriephil.org/inyourhome 814.455.1375 readerFullSeptember18.indd 1 9/18/20 8:01 AM FEATURE Stirring up Business with Cocktails To-Go Bars and restaurants find new mix to their business model

Cocktails-to-go have been a Then we found out Bacardi was life-saver for struggling bars trademarked and dropped it and restaurants since the state The Music Returns! from the process,” explains Hef- approved their sale in May. Pictured from left to right are the fernan. The group worked with Lakeshore Lemonade (Skunk & a beverage consultant in Pitts- Goat Tavern), Pina Colada (Altered burgh to determine the ingredi- State), and Ward 8 (Room 33). ents that would translate into a shelf-stable product. “We have been really very lucky. We were what we believe to be our final pretty much inundated from the product, but now we are get- beginning. We had just opened ting samples bottled for others in November, so this helped us to try,” McCall notes. “We need immensely.” unbiased opinions on it to back It wasn’t an easy start, howev- up what we believe to be a good Watch us on TV CONTRIBUTED er. “We were going 100 miles an product.” All concerts available for hour. We went through multi- The intent behind the project FREE on WQLN PBS! By: Rebecca Styn have consistent cocktail to-go same day it was approved. At ple slushie machines that didn’t is to market to non-drinkers that he rules and regulations business, even after we were able the time, we could only do to-go work. Many that didn’t work as are looking for a sophisticated tied to restaurants and to open.” For them, it’s now part food. This really started to save soon as we unpacked them. But product they can enjoy at home Tbars during the COVID-19 of the norm. “I think the biggest us — you could kind of breathe a we figured it out.” They also took — or at a bar. “As a secondary op- pandemic have been tumultu- takeaway is the convenience of little easier and a lot of our regu- time and precision with their tion, these all mix well with their ous at best. Restrictions have it. Patrons can get a delicious lars started coming back.” drinks. “We didn’t use mixes, we intended spirits,” McCall adds. gone from completely closed, to cocktail by simply doing curb- Inside Coach’s, patrons will did everything from scratch — The labels will highlight stories take-out only, to 50 percent ca- side pick-up [with the necessary find a “Feature Wall” that rotates from in-house simple syrups to about the drinks as well as serv- pacity, to 25 percent capacity and precautions] and don’t have to every month and highlights a house-made coconut cream.” ing size and what it can be mixed no bar seating, and now finally worry about making multiple series of different drinks. “We’ve They wanted to do it differ- with if the patron so chooses.” back up to 50 percent (and this trips to the store to retrieve in- had a Sanitizer, Liquid Mari- ently than the convenience Heffernan hopes to have the all only includes establishments gredients. Also, with the current juana, and two slushie rotating stores. “We were doing them product ready for distribution that serve food). Needless to say, restrictions of not having the flavors. But our namesake, the in a craft way. When you go to by the end of the year. “Many keeping up with this six-month ability to enjoy a nice cocktail at Coachella, is definitely one of Country Fair and GetGo, those give up drinking for the New nightmare is fundamentally a bar, this has given our guests the most popular. The drink is a are mixes and are malt liquor or Year and we think it would be a worse than keeping up with the the opportunity to still enjoy bit lighter (Berry Rum and Lem- beer-based. We built ours from fitting time to have this on the Kardashians. their favorite drink, but now just onade) and ombré in design. It’s scratch.” shelves — if we are able.” One concession granted by the in the comfort of their home.” a deep purple at the bottom and To date, the most popular Facing a sea of unknowns as Viewing Guide state in May, however, was that One of their tried and true gets lighter as it gets to the rim drinks have been the Creamsicle, restaurants work to move to- 2020 restaurants and bars could now takeout favorites? “Lakeshore of the glass.” (Ombre’ is a French Pina Colada, Key Lime, and Gin wards continued reopening, and offer cocktails to-go, in hopes of Lemonade has been on our term which refers to use of a gra- Punch. “They’re our highest sell- some, a hopeful recovery, this buoying the spirits of some own- menu at The Skunk and Goat dient, or gradual shift in tint and ing items. Erie’s been incredibly fix gave many a temporary life- ers. for the past two to three years. shade). open and we couldn’t be more line. Although a push towards Oktoberfest The British Isles There were limitations of It is a favorite and has turned Even with the challenges, Mer- thankful and appreciative of the permanency of this regulation Thursday, October 8 @ 8pm Thursday, October 29 @ 8pm course — restaurants or bars into a staple at the Tavern. It is ski remains hopeful. “We are ex- community.” could provide an opportuni- Sunday, October 11 @ 2pm Sunday, November 1 @ 2pm had to sell food, beverages could house-infused blueberry mint cited to have sports back this fall Before restaurants were al- ty for a reset as many look to a only be sold in containers with vodka, fresh lemon juice, and and I know our customers are lowed to sell cocktails to-go, hopeful future, for now we will With works of charm, sophistication, beauty and In this episode, we survey the expanse that makes a secure lid and in quantities house-made simple syrup. It looking forward to watching the Room 33 started capitalizing live in the present and contin- rich drama, we explore some of the most adored music from this part of the world so lasting in our from 4 oz. to 64 oz., and all before also travels well.” As an added NFL again.” early on in the shutdown by ue to navigate the continually music to have even been performed on the world’s hearts, minds and spirits. 11 p.m. They also couldn’t ride convenience, guests can order Gavin Maus, president and creating craft drinks — without evolving landscape to not only concert stages. shotgun with you. They had to their cocktails online. “We have co-owner of Altered State Dis- the spirits — and bottling them stay afloat, but to continue to be placed in your trunk or back- pictures of each drink as well for tillery, experienced things a little for takeout. The project inspired keep our patrons and communi- seat — away from passengers. reference.” Lewis noted it would differently at the onset of the the team to develop a concept ties safe. For some though, the offering be a great bonus if businesses shutdown. “Right when COVID known as Blind Tiger Spirit Rebecca Styn is the proprietor Americana A Holiday Special helped restaurants feel a little could continue the cocktails to- hit, as a manufacturer we were Free Cocktails. Lizzy Heffernan, of Room 33 Speakeasy. She is also Thursday, November 19 @ 8pm Thursday, December 17 @ 8pm less muddled. go once restrictions are lifted. held to a different restriction. events manager and bartender VP of Ventures at Erie Innova- Sunday, November 22 @ 2pm Sunday, December 20 @ 2pm “Having the ability to of- “I think it has given many busi- We were allowed to sell to-go at 33, was the mastermind be- tion District and recently com- fer cocktails to-go has been a nesses that little extra boost.” drinks immediately.” hind the initial recipes — with pleted her Ph.D. in Leadership Next, we perform works from the nineteenth December is a time for families to relive treasured game-changer for our restau- Diana Merski, owner of Coach’s Recognizing the hardships of support from Shawn McCall, and Organizational Learning century to present day, showcasing how America’s traditions, reconnect with loved ones and sing rants,” emphasizes Annē Lewis, Sports Bar and Grill, also agrees others, he’s counting his bless- Room 33 general manager. from Gannon University. Follow composers can take traditional dance, song and songs of old. Tune in for a memorable TV special director of marketing for Red the change in regulations has ings. “We almost hate to say this “We started with five classic Room 33 on Facebook @room- rhythm, and infuse it all with a distinctive new voice. celebrating the holiday spirit! Letter Hospitality. “The Skunk been beneficial to their base. because we know how difficult cocktails — Ward 8, Bees Knees, 33speakeasy, and follow Rebecca & Goat Tavern has continued to “We started offering them the it’s been for so many, but we have Sidecar, Southside, and Bacardi. on Twitter at @rstyn. eriephil.org/inyourhome 814.455.1375 September 23, 2020 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 19 readerFullSeptember18.indd 1 9/18/20 8:01 AM GAMES Slide in the DM How local Dungeons & Dragons players are rolling for their own initiative

Dungeons & Dragons devotees are dragon- tools they need. like in their tendency to hoard dice, a key Starting a game like this actually be- component of its gameplay mechanics. Dice come in many colors and designs and can be comes a more fulfilling experience than four, six, eight, ten, twelve, or even 20-sided. one would expect. Players working to- gether towards a goal in a fictional setting for developing an outrageous accent). as different characters can be viewed as They even have the option to create an quite the team building exercise. “It’s a elaborate backstory. “Now players have collaborative storytelling experience; the chance to play a shape-changing that’s what really interested me about cat person,” Holoweinko laughingly ex- it,” says Lea. Copp recalled that the kids plained when mentioning the different who participated in the GeekErie ses- types of creatures a player can be. sions benefited greatly from working As a dungeon master (DM), one can together through the game. “They have create an entire world for the players to times where they don’t agree with each explore, adventures for them to go on, other and they’ve worked it out through encounters with strange characters, the story. It’s helped them become lead- KATE COPP KATE and monsters for them to defeat. These ers for each other in ways that are non monsters can be chosen from the wide violent.” Alternatively, it creates a form selection in the Monster Manual, creat- of escapism, giving a player the chance By: Claudia Rose kit that allow players to participate on- line, social distancing is not an issue, nor ed from the DM’s imagination, or even to just immerse oneself in a new world he tabletop role-playing game is finding a t-shirt with just the right ob- based on characters in pop culture. and act in a way they wouldn’t in the (RPG) Dungeons & Dragons has scure reference to wear to game night. “They may take lore that’s already in the real world. Lea charmingly observed, Tbeen around for decades, original- Kate Copp, of GeekErie, has been D&D universe and work it into their own “It’s that same energy of when you were ly invented in 1974 by American game getting younger people into the game world,” noted Bell. The concept of creat- seven and picked up a stick and it was designers Ernest Gary Gygax and David through remote sessions that used to be ing one’s own world for an RPG is known suddenly a sword.” Arneson. At first, it gained an unfortu- held at the library. as homebrew. Something few people For the dungeon master, a person has nate reputation for having a very niche “We continued using Discord during realize is that a Dungeons & Dragons the chance to see what is important and therefore limited target audience. It the pandemic,” says Copp. “Having the campaign does not require a dungeon to them when being in charge of the even stirred up a panic amongst conser- ability to video chat, and home delivery or even a dragon. RPGs can take place in game — how much control they like to vative parents that it would cause their services being able to deliver dice and a wide variety of universes — a magical have and whether they can improvise. children to lose touch with reality, re- maps, it’s been really great to have that kingdom, on board a spaceship, or in the “I didn’t know how well I’d do as a DM. sulting in some rather unfortunate films in times where we can’t get together as midst of a zombie apocalypse to name a The game itself has helped me; it gives being made which will not be mentioned a group.” Britty Lea, who is one of the few. “You really can do anything, which me no choice but to lead. You have these by name. players in the delightful D&D podcast No is the cool part of it,” says Holoweinko. adventurers that need you. It does push “It was very much a ‘niche of a niche,’” Dice, has been playing with a group for “Someone putting together a homebrew you,” Copp says. “It’s helped me not only Steve Holoweinko of the Griffons Lair three years, with no members living in game can be better than any module.” in D&D, but in my personal life. It’s taught Game Shop LLC remarked when dis- the same state. Be warned, this game does have po- me patience and objectivity. I’ve always cussing the initial controversy the game “We use Roll 20, it’s a fantastic re- tential to lead to an expensive habit ... been a black-and-white person, and I met when it first came out. “People source. You can look through supple- dice hoarding. That’s right, they don’t never explored the gray.” didn’t even admit to playing it.” The truth mental books on the site. What’s really just come in different colors; creative She makes a great point. The skills one is, the game is just fun, and anyone can nice about it specifically is you don’t craftsmen make and sell sets of dice needs in an RPG campaign are those play it — writers, actors, book-worms, have to be as well-versed. That’s how one could only dream of. “All RPG players that can be applied in the real world. Bell tech whizzes, gamers, even amateur we started learning it more in depth be- are dragons, but instead of treasure and observed too that “you can use every- stand-up comedians. “There’s a lot more cause all the information is there when gold, we hoard dice,” Bell joked. She not- thing you do for D&D when writing your female players now, and there’s a lot you play.” Additionally, Lea discussed ed that her preference was for dice on resume.” Campaigns can get deeper more older people playing with young- how the TTRPG Safety Toolkit contains the sparkly side. Lea favors a set of her than most would expect, depending on er people,” Holoweinko added. As web guidelines for how players can all feel own that appear to have stars in them. how much people like to role-play. Char- series/podcasts like Critical Role gain comfortable playing together. It outlines Holoweinko loves the weight of his met- acters might establish relationships with increasing popularity, more attention is the importance of communication, trust, al dice on the gaming table. Copp has each other that grow and develop as the being brought to the game. and boundaries amongst group mem- a lucky set known as blood golem dice, game progresses, making the stakes of “Transitioning into fifth edition, it’s a lot bers, so everyone is having a good time. and mentions that the kids she works battle all the more stressful. more welcoming to people who didn’t RPGs like Dungeons & Dragons pres- with likely have over 200 sets of dice be- It’s certainly an option that might make come from an RPG background,” Sar- ent people with endless opportunities tween them. Some are filled with glitter, quarantine a little less monotonous. ah Bell of Gateway Games pointed out. to express themselves as either a player flowers, and skulls, some are made from Claudia Rose recently wrapped up her That being said, for those still looking for or the creator of a campaign (dungeon crystals, some are made like little snow first campaign as a Dungeon Master a safe but fun hobby, consider joining an master). As a player, a person can cre- globes. The possibilities are endless, and (with Reader Managing Editor Nick existing group, or creating your own orig- ate their own character that can look, it is addicting and fun. However, fear not Warren as one of the party members). inal campaign. With computer programs sound, and act however they wish (now if money is scarce. Roll 20 has a free dice The final boss was killed by a goose, like Roll 20, Discord, and the Tabletop is the time that all those Monty Py- program, so until that perfect set comes but that’s another story. Claudia can be Role-playing Game (TTRPG) Safety Tool- thon marathons might come in handy along, players still have access to the reached at [email protected]

20 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com September 23, 2020 MUSIC The Standby Release Demos to Celebrate Over, Under Anniversary ‘Modern emo kid’s take on ‘90s grunge’ gained national notice The Standby — singer-guitarist Riding the successful year they didn’t even have lyrics, which is Jordan Sigmund (left) and bassist had behind their debut effort, why we left it untitled on this re- Lyle Sallade (right) — celebrated The Standby kicked off 2020 lease.” the one-year anniversary of their debut album Over, Under with with a month-long full U.S. tour, The untitled track is the high- the release of a series of demo which surely would have been light of this release, with an ex- recordings. followed by more touring, if it plosive chorus and vocal melody weren’t for the ongoing corona- that is sure to get stuck in the Balance and Composure left off virus pandemic. “We were plan- listener’s head, and will hopeful- with The Things We Think We’re ning on swinging through some ly become a staple of the band’s Missing” by SweetStatic. A mod- parts of the South this summer setlist, whenever live music per- ern emo kid’s take on ‘90s grun- that we had never been through formances come back. To return ge, Over, Under is a masterful before, and we were going to hit the ever-present comparisons blend of multi-genre influences, the West Coast again.” to Nirvana, this track feels like ZACK PUDE ZACK knowing just the right moments As a special anniversary cele- the direction the band would to be powerful and energetic, bration, the band has decided to have gone had Kurt Cobain lived he Standby are celebrating across the country, releasing and when to be somber and treat their fans to Over, Under - to write an album around “You Tthe anniversary of their de- three music videos, amassing introspective, and delivering a The Demos, a compilation which Know You’re Right.” but album, Over, Under, with a over 80,000 plays on Spotify, and sound that fans of any alt-rock features early demo versions of Over, Under - The Demos is special release of a compilation earning coverage in national mu- subgenre will enjoy. the songs “Wintersun” and “Bro- available on all major stream- of demos, including a previously sic outlets such as Alternative “It was incredibly satisfying just ca”, as well as a previously unre- ing services as of Friday, Sept. unreleased track. Press, Dreambound, Punk News, to put out a cohesive release,” leased, untitled track. As to why 18, and be sure to keep your The band had been kicking and Substream. All in the span of says singer and guitarist Jordan the final track was left off of the eyes and ears peeled for what on local stages for a few years, one year. Sigmund. “We put a lot of work album, Sigmund states “We just the band does next. If the past before their seven-song EP Over, Under has been de- into those songs, and it was an didn’t feel that it fit the vibe of year has been any indication, catapulted them out of the tri- scribed as “falling between Kurt achievement to us making the the rest of the record, and there big things can be expected state area and onto the nation- Cobain and emo fame” by Alt- EP, and realizing how many peo- were other songs we wanted to for the future of The Standby. al scene, touring multiple times Press, and as “picking up where ple we could reach.” focus on more. At the time, we ­— Tommy Shannon

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September 23, 2020 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 21 MOVIE REVIEWS Back to the Start: Tenet is a Clever Idea That Lacks Humanity

hristopher Nolan is a filmmaker obsessed Cwith time. Films as varied as Memento, In- ception, Interstellar, and Dunkirk have shown the director’s particular fascination with the way people perceive and experience the passage of time. It was only natural that he would eventu- ally make a film solely about time travel and his new film Tenet is his own take on the genre. The film manages to display both Nolan’s best (clever ideas and creative set pieces) and worst (a disin- terest in characterization and human emotions) qualities, but the good things make it an enter- taining ride. John David Washington plays a CIA operative WARNER BROS. PICTURES BROS. WARNER who gets recruited by a secret organization that is trying to stop a Russian oligarch (Kenneth Branagh) from starting World War III through a device that can some- how reverse chronology. Helping him on this mission are a fellow operative (Robert Pattinson) who seems to know more than he lets on and the oligarch’s estranged wife (Elizabeth Debicki), who sees this mission as her ticket to freedom. The film spends very little of its 150 minutes developing its characters to the point that Washington’s charac- ter doesn’t even get a name. Debicki’s character is the only one we really get to know and she sadly gets less to do as the story moves on. Also, technical issues that Nolan has been criticized about before like sloppy editing and deafening sound mixing get ramped into overdrive here. With that said, the action sequences are expectedly breathtaking and its interesting twist on time travel is enough to somewhat forgive its flaws. Tenet is what Nolan’s career has always been heading towards, for better and for worse. — Forest Taylor Written and directed by: Christopher Nolan // Starring: John David Washington, Robert Pattinson, Elizabeth Debicki, Kenneth Branagh, Dimple Kapadia, Himesh Patel, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Clemence Posey, and Michael Caine // 150 minutes // Rated PG-13

STATION!!!: Bill & Ted Face the Music is Both Excellent and Bogus

he writers and stars of the Bill & TTed movies have been teasing a possible third entry in the series for quite some time now. There were doubts that it would ever be made, but now the story of two dopey guys sav- ing the world with the power of music feels like a breath of fresh air. Unfortu- nately, Bill & Ted Face the Music is a bit of a mess with an overabundance of subplots and neither the clever story- telling of Excellent Adventure nor the demented creativity of Bogus Jour- ney. However, the film’s message of positivity makes it impossible to hate. • No Doctor’s order needed Thirty years after their first adven- ture, Bill S. Preston, Esquire (Alex Win- UNITED ARTISTS RELEASING UNITED ARTISTS • Gender determination at 8 weeks ter), and his most excellent friend Ted Theodore Logan (Keanu Reeves) still haven’t written the song that was foretold to bring about world peace. Upon hearing a warning that the world may soon end, they travel forward in time to get the song from their future selves. Meanwhile, their daughters Billie (Bridgette Lundy-Paine) and Thea (Samara Weaving) travel back in time to get together history’s greatest musicians to help them in their task. Winter doesn’t miss a beat getting back into Bill’s fun-loving shoes. Reeves, on the other hand, has trouble repli- cating the energy of a character he has clearly outgrown. The youthful energy of the older films can be better found in Weaving and Lundy-Paine, who do a great job re-creating the silly scenes that made those films so much fun (shout-out to a musicians duel between Jimi Hendrix and Mozart!). In the end, Bill & Ted Face the Music is harmless fun, but don’t expect it to make history. — Forest Taylor Currently playing in select theaters and on VOD // Directed by: Dean Parisot // Written by: Ed Solomon and Chris Matheson // Call or text for info 814-580-9164 Starring: Alex Winter, Keanu Reeves, Kristen Schaal, Samara Weaving, Bridgette Lundy-Paine, Anthony Carrigan, Erinn Hayes, WWW.PINKORBLUE.SIMPLYBOOK.ME Jayma Mays, Hal Landon Jr., Holland Taylor, and William Sadler // 92 minutes // Rated PG-13

22 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com September 23, 2020 TELEVISION REVIEWS Away Isn’t a Waste of Space How the easy-to-love Netflix drama goes beyond its elevator pitch Atlas spacecraft, she’s joined by an in- ternational team of fellow astronauts. There’s Misha (Mark Ivanir), the gruff, experienced Russian cosmonaut; Wang Lu (Viviaun Wu) of China, whose initial cold demeanor may be deceiving; Kwesi (Ato Essandoh), the Ghanan-born bota- nist and man of faith representing En- gland; and Rom (Ray Panthaki), Green’s suave Indian second-in-command. You’ll know every character’s name by heart three episodes in. By following NETFLIX each character’s backstory, but not relying on too much of a Lost tribute didn’t expect to love Away like I did. A space is unequivocally interesting. (despite the title … wait a minute), the I series taking the Netflix number one While Frances McDormand may still go viewer really grows to know each of spot for a week usually means a few to the moon one day, that doesn’t make the character’s inner workings. While things: It has fairly broad appeal, there’s Away any less captivating. it doesn’t have the quirks and punches something buzz-worthy going on, and Though Josh Charles (The Good Wife, that make a truly great drama (think there’s a fair amount of it to watch. All Sports Night) is the only other well- Mad Men, The West Wing, etc), it excels of these are true, of course, but there known name in the series, this is en- at yanking your heartstrings against a are a few things that make this popu- tirely an ensemble cast. As Commander breathtaking backdrop of zero gravity. – list space drama better TV than most. Emma Green, Swank wrestles with her Nick Warren First, let’s start with the obvious things. driving ambition to go to Mars while Season One currently streaming on Netflix This is a show about Hilary Swank going still caring about her family — her hus- // Created by: Andrew Hinderaker // Starring: to Mars. Having a two-time Academy band and co-worker Matt (Charles) Hilary Swank, Josh Charles, Vivian Wu, Mark Award Winner for Best Actress shoot and her teenage daughter Lex (Talitha Ivanir, Ato Essandoh, Ray Panthaki, Talitha a series that primarily takes place in Bateman). On her mission aboard The Bateman // 10 episodes

PEN15’s Absurd Nostalgic Glory The early 2000s period piece returns in full force despite limited episodes lationships. There’s a school play, a new friend, sleepovers, and more, while the relatively mundane events of this era of one’s life are made monumental. It’s the balancing act that Erskine and Kon- kle do of being truthful and believable 13-year-olds with the scene-breaking insanity that the premise thrives on. It’s sincerity and satire simultaneously. The viewer is both aware of the stretch- es being made, but able to buy into it for the amazing payoff. It’s a hilarious show, with an attention to detail that will have anyone who grew up in the early 2000s both shocked and delighted at what’s being repurposed for schtick. HULU What viewers have now is purportedly the first half of Season Two. With film- f you don’t know about PEN15, get way, two people being themselves and ing cut short due to the COVID-19 pan- Iready to join the club. The series stars basking in all the weirdness they can demic, the latter half of this season will Maya Erskine and Anna Konkle playing muster. likely come in 2021. — Nick Warren middle school versions of themselves. Season Two, though ultimately less First half of Season Two currently The gimmick: Everyone else plays their cartoonish than the first, barely skips a streaming on Hulu // Created by: Maya actual age. Acting alongside actors beat, taking place immediately after the Erskine, Anna Konkle, Sam Zvibleman and actresses that are just barely teen- events of Season One. Still in seventh // Starring: Maya Erskine, Anna Konkle, agers, Erskine and Konkle are Maya grade, Maya and Anna deal with gos- Mutsuko Erskine, Richard Karn, Taylor Ishii-Peters and Anna Kone. The two sip from their classmates and navigate Nichols, Melora Walters, Taj Cross, Dallas are best friends in the most glorious through the waters of middle school re- Liu // Awesomeness TV // Seven episodes

September 23, 2020 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 23 TELEVISION REVIEWS Queens of the North Canada’s Drag Race Slays the Screen and Crowns a New Queen The Queens of the North proved to be feedback, body shaming, and general worth the wait. From the first episode, it rudeness. This then presented a prob- was clear that it was an eclectic group lem within the RPDR fandom. Queens of queens. All different styles and rep- or judges that face criticism for how utations of drag are represented from they are portrayed or the decisions they pageant queens and YouTube Gurus to make are blasted and “canceled” on so- Canadian indigenous queens and circus cial media. Hate messages and death queens. Drag Race continues to further threats can pour in and run victims like visibility for different types of drag, and Chapman off social media. Here, it is effectively showcases their talents. Fan more important than ever to remember favorites like Priyanka, current New York how to politely disagree and not take a City native Jimbo, and Lemon stole the reality show too seriously. screen with their quick wit and star pow- Canada’s Drag Race put a new spin on er personas. Jimbo in particular cap- staple challenges, casting an enchant- tured hearts with her bizarre style and ing group, and delivering a nail-biting fi- quirky personality. nale right until the queen was crowned.

CRAVE/WOW PRESENTS PLUS PRESENTS CRAVE/WOW While the competition was tight, ironi- With a legendary season in the books, cally the panel of judges faced the most we can only sit back and wait to see critiques. Canada’s Drag Race is hosted what the next international season will he Canadian iteration of Rupaul’s streaming service of all things Rupaul’s by judges Brook Lynn Hytes (A U.S. Drag deliver. — Michael Mongera TDrag Race ended its first season on Drag Race. Twelve contestants from all Race runner-up) and models Jeffery Season One airing on Logo TV and September 3. Before we get to the new across Canada strutted into the work- Bowyer-Chapman and Stacy Mackenzie. currently streaming on WOWPresents Plus, Queen of the North, here’s a fair warning room to join the pantheon of RuGirls After some unfavorable critiques, purchasable on Amazon Prime // Created by: that some slight spoilers are ahead. that continues to grow internationally Chapman came under fire on social RuPaul // Judges: Brooke Lynn Hytes, Jeffrey Back in July, Canada’s Drag Race start- (Drag Race Holland and Drag Race Aus- media. Fans were angry at his critiques Bowyer-Chapman, Stacey McKenzie // 10 ed streaming on Wow Presents Plus, a tralia are next). and have accused him of inconsistent episodes

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September 23, 2020 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 25 PODCASTS In Our Ears: Podcasts We’ve Been Loving Our monthly picks for enthralling audio was an impressive, easy-to-read 50 pages. Check out up grueling emotions while bringing old issues into Ghost of a Podcast new episodes of Ghost of a Podcast twice a week. new light, telling the story that no history book will Hosted by: Jessica Lanyadoo — Amy VanScoter — Chloe Forbes Arrow / Astrology, Advice, Self-care 1619 Jensen and Holes: The Murder Squad e’re all looking Hosted by: Nikole Hannah-Jones Hosted By: Billy Jensen and Paul Holes Wfor answers New York Times / History, Economy, Social Justice Exactly Right Media / Mystery, True Crime these days. With the current uncertainty mericans still ave you ever wanted in our world, many are Aseem to learn very Hto solve a murder? finding themselves little about the lives On Jensen and Holes: looking towards the of those enslaved and The Murder Squad, true stars and delving into how that portion of crime journalist Bil- their spiritual nature. history built the econ- ly Jensen and retired Ghost of a Podcast is omy which our coun- cold-case detective your one stop shop try runs upon today. Paul Holes give you the for astrology, advice, and self-care with the occa- The 1619 Project by chance. Brought togeth- sional political discussion. Similar to having a con- The New York Times er through the death of versation with your quirky aunt, Lanyadoo has a Magazine was created their mutual collabora- knack for explaining astrology, current events and to provide the narratives of Black citizens and their ex- tor and friend Michelle McNamara, Jensen and Holes difficult topics with humor, wit, and straightforward periences in the country. The 1619 podcast by Nikole started The Murder Squad with the intention of arming language. In the most recent Episode 141 she covers Hannah-Jones is an extension of this story. citizen detectives with the knowledge needed to crack the current Mars Retrograde period, touching on The podcast begins as Hannah-Jones illustrates unsolved cases. Each week, the duo discusses a differ- conspiracy theories, COVID-19, and how the state of a scene standing at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. ent unsolved case that has lost traction with local law affairs in the United States relates to transit. Lanya- She recalls the tales of her ancestors, where a pirate enforcement, hosting conversations with guests who doo is internationally respected as an astrologer ship by the name of White Lion sailed into the bay and have a connection to the victim or the crime. Each epi- and psychic medium. In 2019, she co-hosted TLC’s trades 20 to 30 Africans for permission to continue sode closes with a call to action for listeners in the form digital show Stargazing. She was the weekly astrol- their journey. Ironically named Point Comfort, this is of a weekly assignment, aimed at providing new leads oger for the San Francisco Bay Guardian from 2003 where slavery in the British North American colonies for law enforcement agencies to follow up on to help until it closed in 2014. She has written astrology col- begins. solve these cases. The episodes often revolve around a umns for varied publications, including The Hood- The podcast covers the economy built up from the murder victim whose case is unsolved, but Jensen and witch, Target, Girlboss, Chatelaine, Martha Stewart’s cotton industry, the beginning of American music Holes also cover cases in which a killer has been caught, Body and Soul Magazine, On Our Backs Magazine, through Black “freedom,” how federal health care con- but their victims remain unidentified. With impeccable Glamour Magazine, Oyster, and Rookie. Her web- tinues to create bad blood, and Black land ownership investigation skills and witty banter, Jensen and Holes site lovelanyadoo.com is full of fun free stuff, weekly struggles today. bring to light cases that have long since been forgotten, horoscopes, and a link to purchase your full astrolo- The profound storytelling and recordings through- giving listeners the chance to do right by the victims. gy chart. Mine was emailed within five minutes and out the five-episode podcast shine through, stirring — Ally Kutz

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We also offer olives, fusion salts, olive leaf teas, and hand made glass cruets, spoons, & pottery cruets. NORTHERN LIGHTS HYDROPONICS, LLC OPEN 10-5 TUESDAY—SATURDAY, CLOSED SUNDAY & MONDAY th 3510 Liberty St. • Erie, PA 16508 814-835-6898 | 1535 W 8 St. Erie, PA | buonacucinaerie.com 814-923-4446 • erieindoorgardening.com 26 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com September 23, 2020 BOOKS Summer Reads You Might Have Missed Three novels you won’t want to put down no matter what season it is MEDICAL By: Ally Kutz The Shadows by Alex North MARIJUANA Thriller, Horror, Mystery / Celadon Books Certification & Renewals What it’s about: In a desolate English town, Charlie Crabtree committed a murder so horrendous that it continues to live on Do It All from Home with Telemedicine in infamy in the dark corners of the Internet, with copycat kill- ers cropping up every few years. Now, 25 years later, Paul Ad- PA Qualifying Medical Marijuana Conditions: ams — a friend of both Charlie and his victim — has returned • Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis; • Multiple sclerosis; home after his ailing mother’s health takes a turn. Before long, • Anxiety disorders; • Neurodegenerative diseases; strange things begin happening to Paul, bringing past memories • Autism; • Neuropathies; with them. The most unsettling memory of all, though, is that af- • Cancer, including remission therapy; • Opioid use disorder for which conventional ter the murder, Charlie Crabtree disappeared — and was never • Crohn's disease; therapeutic interventions are contraindicated found. • Damage to the nervous tissue of the central or ineffective, or for which adjunctive therapy nervous system (brain-spinal cord) with is indicated in combination with primary Why you’ll love it: North writes with such intensity and passion that it is difficult not objective neurological indication of intractable therapeutic interventions; to be immediately pulled in, drawn to the characters’ struggle with such a horrific spasticity, and other associated neuropathies; • Parkinson's disease; murder and the circumstances leading up to it. Each chapter pulls you further into • Dyskinetic and spastic movement disorders; • Post-traumatic stress disorder; the tangled web of Paul’s life, both now and 25 years ago, and the jumps between the • Epilepsy; • Severe chronic or intractable pain of past and present are seamlessly blended to keep you on track but hooked nonethe- • Glaucoma; neuropathic origin or severe chronic or less. With multiple twists and jaw-dropping moments, The Shadows is sure to keep • HIV / AIDS; intractable pain; • Huntington's disease; • Sickle cell anemia; you on edge until the very last page. • Inflammatory bowel disease; • Terminal illness; and • Intractable seizures; • Tourette syndrome Head Over Heels by Hannah Orenstein Sports Romance, Contemporary / Atria Books 1 YEAR CERTIFICATIONS $199 • RENEWALS $99 • $50 OFF FOR VETS

What it’s about: Avery Abrams is a gymnast whose luck seems to have run out. After a terrible performance, Avery’s dreams of CALL 412-398-7777 joining the Olympic team are crushed, she and her football star boyfriend break up, and her best friend and teammate, Jasmine, becomes an Olympic champion, marrying their emotionally abusive coach. Returning to her hometown, Avery begins work- ing alongside new coach Ryan to train a young gymnast with promise. Sparks start to fly, but when a scandal hits the gymnas- tics world, it has devastating effects on Avery and her old friend Jasmine. Why you’ll love it: Orenstein’s characters jump off the page and come to life, giving this story an edge compared to typical romance genre novels. Shining a light on the pressures of elite competitions, the story focuses not only on Avery’s love life, but also on her other relationships, both professional and personal. Orenstein does well in balancing heavy topics with lighter tones, creating a summer read that you won’t want to put down.

The Death of Vivek Oji by Akwaeke Emezi Fiction, Contemporary / Riverhead Books

What it’s about: When a Nigerian mother finds her son’s body wrapped in fabric on her doorstep, the struggle to understand ensues. Growing up, Vivek Oji suffered blackouts with discon- nection between both himself and his surroundings, with an un- derstanding but overprotective mother and distant father rais- ing him. As he becomes an adult, he forms friendships that bring him comfort, his closest being with his cousin Osita. As their bond grows stronger, Osita tries to better understand Vivek’s intensifying crisis that ends in an unanticipated act of violence. Why you’ll love it: Emezi’s writing captivates from the beginning, with characters that are unforgettable and a vivid storyline that will leave readers wanting more. The novel focuses on much more than Vivek’s death, drawing into the story both his life and the people that surround him. With an excellent balance between first-person and third-person narratives and the ability to build tension through subtle foreshad- owing, Emezi creates a compelling and gorgeous novel that all should read.

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28 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com September 23, 2020 September 23, 2020 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 29 ALBUM REVIEWS

Wasted Info waveform* Anjimile Various Artists Tacos, Paint Fumes, and All the Other Essentials Last Room Giver Taker Damaged By Dez Self-released Self-Released Father/Daughter Records Cadena Records and Cylinders

here’s some- or the unini- editative amaged By Tthing warm Ftiated, wave- Mand fo- DDez is a trib- and immediate form* is a Con- cused, the debut ute record to about Wasted necticut-based album from Bos- singer Dez Cade- Info’s debut al- duo that makes ton’s Anjimile is na of Black Flag. bum. That kind of noise. I say subtly astound- Featured are six distinctive touch “noise,” specif- ing. Carrying the songs Cadena ei- probably isn’t an accident from the Erie ically, because the music they create affecting tones and harmonies delicate- ther sang, recorded, or wrote right before band. In fact it makes perfect sense — seems impossible to classify in a singu- ly harnessed by artists like Sufjan Ste- singer Henry Rollins ultimately joined they recorded all ten tracks themselves. lar genre. Take hooky songwriting, coat vens and Fleet Foxes, Giver Taker offers the band. Local Erie thrashers Mania- Spinning Tacos, Paint Fumes, and All it in layers of reverb and DIY charm, add up its own unique voice. The project of cal Device rip through a Hamm’s-fueled the Other Essentials is pure lo-fi fun. some alluring photography-based art- multi-instrumentalist Anjimile Chith- rendition of “Six Pack’,” with beer-soaked From the start of the band’s eponymous work, and you have a waveform* album. ambo, the album portrays an instant- vocals over razor-tight guitars and a and extremely catchy opening track, It’s what made 2019’s Shooting Star one ly relatable feeling told from a deeply charging rhythm section that makes you you get an idea of what’s in store, with a of the best albums of the year, and for- personal perspective. As Chithambo want to see how many cold ones you can healthy share of curveballs thrown in. At tunately, their new release, Last Room, received treatment for their alcohol- pound before the song is over. The Jesse the heart of the band is singer-guitarist follows suit. Decidedly less weird than ism prior to the release of this album, Blankenship Band cover of the break-up Kennedy Krahe, joined by bassist Garret its predecessor, Last Room highlights they also continued their journey as a song “Jealous Again” shines as a coun- Mallory. There are times — particularly the band’s strength as songwriters, with trans, non-binary individual (going by try-punk tune while fellow Columbusites in the uptempo tracks three through six tracks like “Favorite Song” and “Shoot- both they/their and he/him pronouns). Mummula give us a horror-punk version — where Krahe belts out her vocals with ing Star” incorporating more acoustic It’s a work to behold, chamber-folk of of “Gimmie Gimmie Gimmie.” Buffalo’s an exuberance that echoes Marissa Pa- instrumentation with a distinct West- the highest caliber that’s ideal warmth Pure Heel pull off “Damaged I,” a song ternoster of Screaming Females, mixed ern flair. Still, what makes Last Room for the coming autumn nights. Wafting that utilizes Black Flag’s abrasive start/ with the humor and approachability of nearly as masterful as its predecessor melodiously, dealing with mortality and stop technique, complete with feed- Colleen Green or Tacocat. Then there are is the variety it presents; the aforemen- self-actualization, Giver Taker forgoes back and vocal taunting. Vieja Estirpe others (like “I Sometime”) that are pure tioned songs are strategically placed be- any seeming pretension and opts for from Puerto Rico does a street punk Kimya Dawson, as the latter half of the tween grungy power-pop numbers like honesty at every turn. Utilizing instru- version of “Rise Above,” complete with record dips into a more somber tone. Any “Tell You” and “Blue Disaster,” which is mentation that’s often minimal, the gang vocals. Rounding out this tribute comparisons aside, Krahe, who found- led by an eerie, unforgettable synth riff. harder-hitting pop sections of songs is Betty Machete and the Angry Cou- ed Wasted Info in 2015, knows who she With Last Room, waveform* continues like “Baby No More” or the afrobeat gars (also from Columbus) with “Amer- is. Essentials shows off that infectious to succeed at what they do best: creat- crescendos of “Maker” strike fire just ican Waste,” a frantic thrash punk take personality, both as a loose bedroom ing genre-defying albums that play as as well as reflective, finger-picked on a Black Flag classic. Stocked with album and a document bursting with truly unique experiences. And no oth- chimes of the album’s bookend tracks, locals and regular Erie visitors, this is a potential that’s certainly not wasted. er band is doing it quite like they do. “Your Tree” and “To Meet You There.” must-have for any Black Flag collector. — Nick Warren — Aaron Mook — Nick Warren — Larry Wheaton

TOMMY IN TOON — BY TOMMY LINK

30 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com September 23, 2020 CROSSWORD

Across Heston that was taken on the 20. Pucker-producing 1. Honda rival set of a 1959 movie? 24. Boar’s mate 6. Enjoy Joyce, Carroll or Oates 60. Knight’s equivalent 25. Teaspoon or ton 10. Man of letters? 62. Gateway Arch designer 26. It’s from Latin words mean- 15. Japanese or Javanese Saarinen ing “almost last” 16. “Picnic” playwright 63. Michele of “Glee” 27. Luxury hotel chain 17. Upright, maybe 64. “Hurry it up!” ... or an apt 28. Evening, in ads 18. Flattering thing for artist description of 18-, 24-, 40- or 33. Put money in the bank Answers to last puzzle Kahlo to hear when she walks 56-Across 35. Part of QED in a room? 70. Off the table, perhaps 37. What candles may indicate 21. China’s Chiang ____-shek 71. “____ only known ...” 38. Active ingredient in mari- 22. Cookie that’s often pulled 72. Big name in cameras and juana apart lenses 41. “Fiddlesticks!” 23. Airline that doesn’t sched- 73. Tech support callers 42. “Waltz Across Texas” coun- ule flights on Shabbat 74. “Dragonwyck” novelist try singer Ernest 24. Something in the sky in Seton 43. Seasonal song words after early February? 75. Many new parents could “gay apparel” 29. ‘70s radical grp. use it 44. Prego competitor 30. Bill in a tip jar Down 48. “Aaron Burr, ____” (“Hamil- 31. Rocket interceptor, for short 1. Yoga pad ton” song) 32. Sad, in French or Spanish 2. It comes straight from the 49. Natives of Nebraska 34. “Bottled poetry,” according hearth 50. “What time?” to Robert Louis Stevenson 3. New Mexico tribe 51. Singer of “My Country, ‘Tis of 36. Go ____ great length 4. French : merci :: German : Thee” at Barack’s inauguration 39. Smear ____ 53. Immune system protectors 40. Excitement over an evening 5. Turkey’s capital 55. “Au revoir!” festivity involving poop? 6. Carnival city 57. Ballpark player? 45. “Curb Your Enthusiasm” 7. Provide with funds 58. Buzz Lightyear’s buddy lead, casually 8. 2008 Katy Perry hit “I Kissed 59. Superman’s Kryptonian 46. Quito’s land: Abbr. ____” name 47. LAX guesstimates 9. Can’t abide 61. At all 49. Home of the NHL’s Senators 10. Lotion bottle abbr. 65. USCG rank 52. Vowelless deli order 11. Suffix with billion 66. Aunt in la familia 54. It helped bring dinos to life 12. Hard time, so to speak 67. Conk out in “Jurassic Park” 13. Speedy Gonzales cry 68. Team’s best pitcher 55. “Who ____ to judge?” 14. Eucalyptus eater 69. Toy dog’s bark 56. Pic posted by Charlton 19. One of the lesser apes

September 23, 2020 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 31 WATCH & LEARN NATURE IS THE KEY TO OUR SURVIVAL

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