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GENERIC_Erie_10.5x12.25.indd 1 7/7/17 11:20 AM CONTENTS: From the Editors The only local voice for news, arts, and culture. A Year of Potential Energy Editors-in-Chief: January 3, 2018 Brian Graham & Adam Welsh ow’s the time. Time to harness every one of Managing Editor: those good intentions that come springing forth Nick Warren Stepping Into a New Line of Nas the new year begins, and actually do some- Copy Editor: Inquiry – 5 thing with them. With 2017 in the books, 2018 (so far) re- Matt Swanseger mains a blank slate. The opportunities are endless. We Contributing Editors: Ben Speggen Asking questions, and lots of have nearly an entire calendar year left to go before 2019 Jim Wertz them begins, and we all start getting retrospective again. IS TODAY Contributors: When next year does come around, where do you want Maitham Basha-Agha to be? Do you want to be stuck making excuses for why Mary Birdsong Erie At Large – 6 Charles Brown things didn’t go the way you wanted them to in 2018? Tracy Geibel Meet Chris Rieger, Democrat for Do you want to keep blaming those same things — ev- Lisa Gensheimer Tommy Link Congress erything but yourself — for why nothing has changed Aaron Mook for the better? Will you lament, rationalizing that you Dan Schank set your goals too high, that you over-reached for some- Tommy Shannon Coming Full Circle – 11 THE DAY Ryan Smith thing that could never possibly be done? Jen Sorenson Let’s not make more excuses. We do, of course, have Ti Sumner Legacy, Community, and Pop- Cara Suppa Culture Theology at the Erie to be realistic. Not everything can be done in one year, Bryan Toy Philharmonic but some things can. Just think of how much in 2017 Cover Art spun out of control and went oh-so wrong. If that many YOU IGNITE Bryan Toy Photographers: things can be undone in a single 365.25-day span, then Maitham Basha-Agha certainly the inverse is possible. Granted, it’s always Ryan Smith easier to knock something down that it is to build it Publisher’s Assistant: Emily Hanisek up, so the herculean efforts that some people make to YOUR FUTURE? Intern: progress things forward can’t be understated. As frus- Libby Rosequist trating as it is, “two steps forward, one step back,” is still progress. That step back might feel like a mile. Hell, It 1001 State St. Suite 901 Erie, Pa., 16501 might even be more than that. It might be painful, and [email protected] probably bring more than its share of tears, feeling like If you have the spark, we have the programs to more of an avalanche sometimes. The important thing
The Erie Reader is the local voice for news, CONTRIBUTED PHOTO is: keep going. We need to take those two steps, and you, guide you toward a rewarding career. arts, and culture, and is Erie’s only inde- along with the world around you, will be better off be- pendent, alternative newspaper. Founded cause of it. FORTIS offers programs in the following areas: in 2010, the Reader has quickly become the region’s award-winning source for arts Spotlight on Erie – 15 This year has been referenced constantly since the coverage, a strong cultural compass, and election results in 2016. “Midterms — there will be a a dynamic resource for news and opinion. This must be it, welcome to the pushback, just you wait.” Some version of that has been Nursing • Medical/Dental • Business With a dedication to long-form journal- ism and a commitment to provoking new year uttered nearly every day. Now, it’s right in sight. We talk thoughtful discussion, the Reader tells to one of the Democratic candidates looking ahead, can- the stories of the people and places mak- didate for US House of Representatives Chris Rieger. Criminal Justice • Skilled Trades ing and shaping Erie, while highlighting Must See Shows – 19 the events and issues influencing life in The Butler County lawyer announced his run in August northwestern Pennsylvania. The Erie Mechanical Heart Premiere and (and was the second Democrat to do so, after Hermit- Reader is published every other week and age’s Brian Skibo) against incumbent Mike Kelly, first distributed at over 250 high foot-traffic Arts Education Benefit at PACA locations in Pennsylvania from North elected in 2010. East to Girard to Edinboro. In addition to Film Grain: Dinner and a With her own well-versed report on things, another appearing in print, Erie Reader adds new politician — newly elected Erie City Councilwoman Liz content daily at ErieReader.com as well Movie – 20 CALL 1.855.445.3276 social media sites. All rights reserved. All Allen — offers her unique point of view, coupled with content © Flagship Multimedia, Inc, 1001 Film Society of NWPA’s new series decades of journalistic experience with the Erie Times State St., Suite 901, Erie, Pa, 16501. No part News. Her transparent, first-person take on the work- TEXT “IGNITE” TO 367847 of this publication may be reproduced off to a “Wonder”-ful start without permission. The opinions of our ings of local government will certainly be something columnists and contributors are their special to look forward to in the coming year. own and do not always reflect that of the Crossword Puzzle – 23 Also seeking to harness that special energy is the editorial board or organization. Direct FORTIS.EDU IGNITE YOUR FUTURE sales inquiries to 814.314.9364. For editorial This week’s puzzler courtesy of Erie Philharmonic. The organization — over a century inquiries, email [email protected]. old — still continues to do positive things in our com- David Levinson Wilk munity, bringing music, education, and outreach to the Erie area. Find out what’s behind the music, driving the Movie Reviews – 24 group to forge ahead into the new year and beyond. Our takes on The Shape of Water It’s a new, fresh time, the light of unbridled possibility lighting our way. It’s in these first few desperate hours and The Last Jedi FORTIS INSTITUTE in the dawn where we feel invincible. That feeling isn’t a naive shroud influenced by a couple of presents and 5757 WEST 26TH STREET, ERIE, PA 16506 Music Reviews – 26 champagne toasts, it’s something real. It’s the moti- New cuts from Eminem, N.E.R.D, vating spirit that drives us to get things done. It’s that Financial Aid Available for those who qualify. Career Placement Assistance for All Graduates. spark, that can set a warming fire ablaze even in seven Serpent Power, and Glassjaw feet of snow. For consumer information, visit Fortis.edu. January 3, 2018 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 3
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4 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com January 3, 2018 NEWS & VIEWS Stepping Into a New Line of Inquiry Asking questions, and lots of them
After spending decades as a journalist, newly elected City Council member Liz to keep using my journalism skills to Allen carries a penchant for inquiry into her ask questions at City Hall. It’s hard to new office. turn off the interrogative sentences when you’ve been doing it since age 18, vote. which is when I began my first report- One way to determine facts is to ask ing job, at the former Morning News. questions, and I asked a lot of them at It was May 1972 and I had started my council’s three budget sessions. Kathy summer internship at the old Times Schaaf, also newly elected to council, Publishing Co. building at East 12th and I were invited to the budget meet- and French streets. A few weeks lat- ings as a courtesy. Word spread about er, the newspaper would move to its my inquisitiveness. current location at 205 W. 12th St., but But I had read the proposed budget I got to launch my career in a setting cover-to-cover, made lots of notes and straight out of the Front Page, with felt compelled to educate myself. Why clanging teletypes, ringing phones, had the amusement tax declined from yelling reporters, chain-smoking edi- $367,613 in 2015 to a projected $316,100 tors and papers flying off the hot-lead in 2018? Why was revenue from park- press. ing fines expected to increase from After I made my first-ever set of “po-
MAITHAM BASHA-AGHA $843,500 in the 2017 budget to $874,831 lice checks” to scrounge up news from in the new year? How does the Office the tri-state area, I banged out a brief By: Liz Allen of Police Civilians use its $254,215 in about a man who had been arrested committed a big blunder two weeks overtime? What kind of wellness pro- with gun. s Curtis Jones Jr. said his before the Nov. 7 election. After I post- gram does the city offer to hold down I yanked the copy paper out of the goodbyes during the Dec. 20 ed on Facebook that George H.W. Bush healthcare costs? And why does one typewriter roller and took my story ACity Council meeting, he men- had touched me on the butt when we councilman insist on referring to po- up to the city editor. Peering over his tioned that when he won the first of posed for a photo in 2004, Erie Times- lice officers and firefighters as “police- glasses, he handed the story back and his three terms in 2005, he was the News reporter Kevin Flowers inter- men” and “firemen?” barked: “Was it a handgun or a rifle?” youngest person ever elected to coun- viewed me. The advice-giver and two OK, that last question wasn’t bud- With a red face, I went back to the cil. political strategists chided me. Better get-related, but journalists have used desk, called the police station and A few minutes later, Jones corrected to be seen and not heard so close to gender-neutral terms to refer to oc- asked about the type of gun. Hand- himself after getting a text from his the election, they said. cupations for years. It’s spelled out gun, the police officer told me. “historian friend,” Carl Anderson Jr., Their intention was honorable and in our “Bible,” the Associated Press I did a rewrite, said that the suspect who was in the audience. Anderson, their gut was right. On social media, Stylebook. In fact, I first advocated had been arrested with a handgun newly elected to Erie County Council, people called me a liar, a “ho,” fat, ugly, for inclusive language in 1972, when I and trotted my story back to the city told Jones that Brian Dougherty had a political opportunist and a mon- served as the student representative desk. actually been the youngest person ey-grubber. It was a rude introduction on an all-male search committee for The city editor frowned, then de- ever elected to Erie City Council. That to incivility at a time when I chose to a new journalism school dean. Every manded to know: “What kind of hand- would make Jones, who just turned run for public office as part of my civic time a male professor said the com- gun? Was it a .38? A .45?” 42, the second-youngest person ever duty. mittee was looking for “a man” with a Dejected, I picked up the phone and elected to City Council. My fleeting #metoo moment did certain pedigree, I’d quietly interject, called the police officer again. I enjoyed those lighthearted mo- come back to haunt me on Election “or woman.” I learned a valuable lesson that ments for two reasons. First, at age 66, Day. Outside a polling station in My protests fell on deaf ears; it night. Never be afraid to ask ques- I suspect I’m the oldest person ever southeast Erie, an elderly woman would be 16 years until a woman was tions, even if you have to repeat them elected as a first-time council member. with a beaming smile said that she named dean of my alma mater. But I or rephrase them, until you nail down Secondly, I liked the fact that the had intended to vote for me until I can’t complain about the guy who got the details. affable Jones fixed his mistake from used “poor judgment” by “writing a the job in 1972 – George Reedy, former I don’t remember the diameter of the dais. I’m a lifelong journalist and letter to the editor” about my encoun- press secretary to Lyndon Johnson the gun from that long-ago crime, but fact-checking is part of my DNA, but ter with Bush. My effort to explain the and author of The Twilight of the I hope to bring a high caliber of ques- I’ve wondered how my penchant for difference between a letter to the edi- Presidency. tions to my new job on City Council. asking lots of questions to determine tor and a news story failed, and I was Reedy had been a reporter for UPI And if I’m not the oldest first-time the facts will play out in the political left to wonder why I was the one with before he went to work for LBJ. If council member, let me know. I’m hap- arena. “poor judgment” when it was the for- Reedy were still alive (he would have py to stand corrected. I already have an inkling. Before mer president who had pinched me. turned 100 this year), I would have I was even sworn in on Jan. 2, a City I told the voter that I’m a journalist loved to pick his brain about his tran- Liz Allen retired from the Erie Hall veteran offered me a bit of advice: who believes in reporting the truth, sition from journalism to politics, Times-News after nearly 32 years as “Remember, you have two ears and and I’d apply the same standard for then his return to journalism to finish a reporter, editor and columnist. You one mouth.” That advice came from vetting things if I were elected to City out his career. can follow her rookie adventures the same person who feared I had Council. But I had already lost her I’m certain he would encourage me on City Council in the Erie Reader.
January 3, 2018 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 5 NEWS & VIEWS Erie At Large Meet Chris Rieger, Democrat for Congress
Chris Rieger, a 33 year-old lawyer of thinking at the time, which Lawrence County Action in from south Butler County, is why I ran for a smaller of- New Castle, the Democratic believes his youth will be an fice. Women of Mercer County has asset — not a hindrance — as he campaigns for a seat in the U.S. The morning after the elec- a number of activists who are House of Representatives. tion, I didn’t wake up and say getting behind our campaign, “okay, well that was great, so and of course, Keystone Prog- now I’m going to go up against ress Erie is going to be enor- serve what’s left of the Dem- the car salesman from Butler.” mous in our efforts up in Erie ocratic agenda in Washington That thought didn’t register, because this is the highest to the benefit of the rather ho- but based on what happened concentration of voters that mogenous and sprawling 3rd on November 8th of last year, we want to get out. I think the Congressional District, which I knew I wanted to stay visible next stage in the game is to includes western Erie County, and stay involved, however I get all these groups coalescing as well as parts of Armstrong, could. and working together. I think Butler, Clarion, Crawford, I got a call from a friend of that’s the next challenge, right Lawrence, and Mercer coun- mine down in north Allegh- when the primary season ties. eny County who said “we kicks off. Rieger ran unsuccessfully need speakers for Fair Dis- JW: You’re a young guy. for a seat in the Pennsylva- trict PA,” which led into me You’re a smart guy, but you’re nia House of Representatives doing presentations here and a young guy. You’ve got a in 2012. He’s been active with there throughout Butler and youthful appearance to you. groups advocating for the Lawrence counties, for fair CR: I’m older than I look preservation and expansion districts, because the gerry- [laughs]. of the Affordable Care Act, mandering issue is big with JW: But the fact remains as well as Fair District PA, me as well. This is around the that Dan Lavallee has mount- which lobbies to dismantle time the healthcare issue re- ed the only significant chal- the gerrymandered political ally took off, based on the Af- lenge to Mike Kelly in 2014, districting in the Common- fordable Health Care Act vote and one of the biggest hurdles wealth that has turned PA-3 last May. We put on a couple he faced was his age, and the into a bastion of white conser- of in-person town halls that lack of political experience, CONTRIBUTED PHOTO vatism — nearly 95 percent of I moderated — one was in and he was hammered for the electorate in this district is Cranberry Township, one was that, in the Erie Times News By: Jim Wertz party in power in the exec- white and less than 5 percent in New Castle. So, when I’ve in particular, in their endorse- utive branch loses 25 seats, of voters are black or Hispan- been doing my stump speech, ment of Mike Kelly. n the wake of the 2016 on average, in the House of ic. I’ve been talking about how CR: I met Dan a few times presidential elections, Representatives as a result of We met when Rieger came I’ve now conducted more last year — I think he ran IDemocrats, in particular, Congressional midterm elec- to town for a regularly sched- in-person town halls in the a fantastic campaign, and focused their attention to- tions, according to analysis by uled meeting of the Erie chap- last five months in front of I think what he had going ward the 2018 midterm elec- Vox Media. In fact, the presi- ter of Keystone Progress, a Representative Kelly’s con- against him wasn’t his youth tions. Their hope: to make 2018 dent’s party has lost Congres- grassroots organization that stituents than Representative at all; what he had going a change year on par with the sional seats in 16 of the last 18 supports myriad progressive Kelly has in the last six years. against him was a matter of three most recent midterm midterm elections. issues across Pennsylvania. JW: Tell me about the com- timing. I think 2014 was a elections. Pennsylvania Democrats We talked about his motiva- position of that team, and rough year for Democrats up In 2006, Democrats gained would like to see this trend tions, his priorities, and his how that’s helping you to mo- and down the ballot nation- 31 seats in the House and six continue in 2018 as they plan to unseat a four-term bilize here in the early stages wide, and for Pennsylvania, seats in the Senate. Four years search for a candidate that conservative incumbent in of the campaign. minus [Governor] Tom Wolf. later, Republicans picked up is both wonkish and charis- the era of Trump. CR: We’re basically orga- But when people meet me for 63 seats in the House and took matic enough to take on Re- Jim Wertz: Let’s talk a little nized by regions, largely the first time, they’re genuine- back the six Senatorial seats publican Representative Mike bit about how your work has throughout the 3rd, so many ly excited that we have a new, lost in 2006; and in 2014, Re- Kelly, who was first elected to affected your decision to run of them were involved in my fresh young face coming in. publicans added 13 more seats Congress in the change wave for the 3rd Congressional Dis- State House campaign last I’d like to think I’m bringing in House and nine more seats in 2010 unseating then Con- trict. year. The majority of them a youthful energy to the dis- in the Senate. gresswoman Kathy Dahlkem- Chris Rieger: When I ran for actually are not part of any trict. But I still think my ex- These swings are largely per. public office, for State House, official Democratic party ap- perience in the private sector, seen as electoral backlash to- Chris Rieger hopes to be against Daryl Metcalfe last paratus. Some are, obviously my experience in my private ward the party which holds, that candidate. He’s a 33-year year in south Butler County, — the Butler County commit- practice, and my work with and the President who resides old lawyer from south Butler I wanted to find a way to get tee, which I’m very close with, the kind of clientele I have, in, the White House. Histor- County hoping he can con- more involved in my commu- is working with me down my and throughout my volun- ically, since World War II, the vince voters that he can pre- nity, so it was a very local level way. But I’m working with teer work, gives me a number
6 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com January 3, 2018 ABC’s OF BUILDING BETTER LIVES
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January 3, 2018 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 7 NEWS & VIEWS
of great life experiences and feel like their voices have been to bring that message every- we announced when we did. we’re not letting people for- great relationships that can shut out for a while because of where. We announced comparative- get about that. The issue of help me with this race. both gerrymandering and the JW: One of the challenges ly early. We announced back healthcare is not going away. JW: This seat has historically fact that they feel that their Dan Lavallee faced was that in the third week of August, The Affordable Care Act is far been controlled by Erie Coun- representatives, particularly 3 out of 4 voters had no idea and we were able to build a from perfect as most people ty politicians, Republican Mike Kelly and Glenn Thomp- who he was, according to a grassroots organization im- know — and everyone wants or Democrat, up until Mike son, aren’t as successful as Mercyhurst University poll mediately, like I said, with all to make it better, but the issue Kelly. Erie voters are clam- they need to be. If you look at in October of 2014. You’ve got of these groups we’ve reached is how do we make it better? oring for a candidate from a Erie County, Barack Obama out to. And one thing I’ve been So that started the drumbeat northern part of the district won Erie County by about 16 saying is, “Are we going to out- I think, with a lot of these to run. Your experience is pri- or 17 points in 2012, Trump of “I’m not going to let spend Mike Kelly?” Of course groups I’ve been discussing marily in the southern part course won it by two; it was the voters forget not, it would be naive to think with, that’s what got us to of the district and you live at a 10,000 vote swing. Those about the healthcare that. But we are going to out- organize the healthcare town the southern point of the dis- are primarily Democrats, the vote last May. I think work him. hall. And again, it’s an issue trict. What’s your answer to Obama coalition Democrats. it was immoral. The JW: We talked about your that’s personal to me, based Erie voters, Erie Democrats in So, I think the question our Congressional Budget broader issues, but if you had on the people I represent as particular, but Democrats and campaign, and many cam- Office’s estimates were to carry a single drumbeat legal counsel. So that, and in- Republicans who are looking paigns are trying to answer is very clear about what through this election, what’s come inequality, I think are is- for someone to represent the “how do you win them back?” it going to be? sues that resonate with many that bill would have needs and the challenges of I think you win them back CR: I’m not going to let Americans, because they’re Erie in Washington? with those grassroots eco- done to people in PA-3 the voters forget about the low-level, local issues. They’re CR: My answer to the people nomic issues, things like a liv- as well as nationwide.” healthcare vote last May. I national issues, but they af- of Erie, is that we’re trying to ing wage, healthcare for every think it was immoral. The fect everyone individually. bring a positive, progressive, American, and getting private a few months to make that Congressional Budget Office’s economic message to the 3rd money out of politics, which up, and you’re likely — I think estimates were very clear Jim Wertz can be reached district. I think that’s a mes- is an idea even many inde- — to have a Democratic chal- about what that bill would at [email protected], sage that still resonates with pendents and Republicans lenger in the primary. have done to people in PA-3 and you can follow him voters in the city of Erie, who can get behind. We’re trying CR: Well that’s one reason as well as nationwide. And on Twitter @jim_wertz.
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10 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com January 3, 2018 FEATURE Coming Full Circle Legacy, community, and pop-culture theology at the Erie Philharmonic
tional recognition for the or- too often recognized for the chestra and the organization. negative effects of economic “The Philharmonic has downturn and the trials of always engaged in various postmodern life. forms of outreach,” says lo- That’s why the Phil orches- cal attorney W. John Knox, tra in 2017 played free youth who has been involved with concerts for nearly 6,000 the Erie Philharmonic for Erie County elementary and more than 30 years and now middle school students, of- serves as president of the fering free busing to all pub- organization’s board of di- lic schools in the city of Erie. rectors. “However, the out- Those concerts are the culmi- reach that’s being done now nation of an academic curric- is much broader, much more ulum designed by Weiser & robust, and in many ways has Co. and delivered to area mu- become the focus of the orga- sic teachers at the beginning nization on par with giving of the school year so that, by incredible symphonic and the time these students ar- pops concerts. It’s much more rive at the Warner Theatre, involved with the communi- they know the instruments MAITHAM BASHA-AGHA ty than it ever has been.” that comprise the orchestra, Among its myriad commu- they’ve built an appreciation nity outreach projects, the for the music they will hear By: Jim Wertz sound they loathe on perfor- expectation that an organi- Philharmonic offers master and, perhaps most impor- mance night. zation like the Philharmonic classes for young musical tantly, they are offered ways alking into the Erie Philharmonic Execu- will continue to build an au- standouts to work with art- to connect the musical per- stage door of the tive Director and Erie Read- dience as it meets its mission ists like renowned pianist formance they hear to some WWarner Theatre is er “40 Under 40” alum Steve and builds its brand. Emanuel Ax and Broadway other aspect of their life. The an exhilarating experience, Weiser understands this. “I For the past two years, star Lisa Vroman, among oth- curriculum is rooted in com- whether the stage is empty know what it’s like to be a Weiser and the staff of the ers. But Phil outreach isn’t mon core standards and in- and dark or whether stage- musician and look out to see Erie Philharmonic have re- just focused solely on those cludes pre-test and post-test hands and roadies are bus- that the hall is only half full tuned the mission and work hoping to one day accompa- materials as well as interdis- tling under the lights, setting of people and I don’t want of the orchestra by engaging ny such virtuosos. It’s more ciplinary lesson plans and lis- the stage for one of the many that feeling to pass on to any in community outreach and often about introducing new tening guides. rock and roll bands that have other musician,” says Weiser. programming world class audiences to orchestral mu- When the kids aren’t com- come and gone or a traveling “I take it personally.” performances, which has led sic and enriching the lives of ing to the Phil, the Phil goes Broadway production that Weiser’s been leading the to record ticket sales and na- those in a community that is to them with visiting artist utilizes all of the stage at the business end of the 104-year soon-to-be 87-year old mov- old orchestra since 2015. Prior ie house-turned-performing to that he played percussion arts theater. for both the Erie Chamber There’s an energy that per- Orchestra and the Erie Phil- meates the theater anytime, harmonic. As a musician who curtain down or up, foot- moved into the management lights dark or aflame. But of a large organization, he there’s a particular energy appreciates the tension that that permeates the Warner exists between an organiza- stage when it’s filled with 60 tion which literally performs professional musicians, many its basic function hoping that of whom travel to Erie to join seats will be filled and the their local peers in the Erie Philharmonic. Musicians in [top left] The Erie Philharmonic rehearsal have a particular ably fills the Warner Theatre with sound; under the directorship of anxious ease to them as each Steve Weiser they have also put note they play bounces back a concerted effort into filling the at them from the distant seats via community outreach and walls of the empty house. It’s engagement. [bottom right] A view from the Warner Theatre balcony a sound they can appreciate reveals the venue’s ornate detail at dress rehearsal, but it’s a and splendor. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
January 3, 2018 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 11 FEATURE
[top left] Music director Daniel Meyer has been instrumental in bringing world-class talent to Erie, such as renowned pianist Emmanuel Ax [top right] for a four- day residency last March. [bottom right] Executive Director of the Erie Philharmonic Steve Weiser, formerly a percussionist with the orchestra, demonstrates a Puerto Rican guiro for elementary school students at Early Connections, Inc.
er in life, music will always be a part of their lives,” says Weiser. “Whether or not they become a huge benefactor, a board member, a volunteer, a CONTRIBUTED PHOTO CONTRIBUTED PHOTO ticket buyer or a subscriber, programs and long-term resi- by the Erie Phil the month be- big name guest artists get a an email about the piano pro- you guarantee that music will dencies in community centers fore. sense of the outreach efforts gram at the Erie Phil.” always be a part of their life.” across the city. Between Au- “Here you have a living leg- and what is trying to be done Sarah says she emailed Weis- “It’s kind of like the line from gust 2017 and February 2018, end playing on a crappy up- here.” er about the piano donation Terminator 2,” he chuckles. teaching artist Melany Myers right piano to a gym full of And that “crappy upright pi- program and information “‘There’s no fate but what you will visit classrooms at the kids,” Weiser remembers. “He ano” that Emanuel Ax played about Taylor’s lessons. Less make.’ If we want an audience, Early Connections Learning had a bandage on his face — crappy only in comparison than two hours later he re- why aren’t we building it our- Center more than 60 times because he had cut himself to the Bösendorfer or Stein- plied and asked what size pi- selves? If we give a kid a piano, fostering musical skills and shaving, he had the flu, and his way Ax might be accustomed ano she had room for. “By the we’re building that audience. appreciation in preschool nose was running. He goes to to — was donated to Emerson end of the day,” she says, “I had One way or another a kid in students, which research has play something to get every- Gridley as part of a piano do- to go home and tell my hus- that family will always re- shown to impact cognitive one’s attention in a room full nation program that brought band we were getting a piano member what you did.” development in other areas, of mostly minority students, refurbished pianos into pub- and we needed to start mak- That pop-culture theology including speech and reading who definitely have no idea lic schools and community ing space for it.” infuses much of what’s be- as children prepare to enter who he is, and he asks, ‘Who centers across the city of Erie The piano donation program ing done at the Philharmonic kindergarten. has a birthday today?’ It in- and to any other organization covers the cost of delivery and these days. Weiser is never “The only caveat of bringing stantly disarmed the crowd. that needed one. The program the first tuning of the piano as short on references to Star in Emanuel Ax for five days Then he plays variations of was so successful that, having well as a guide that tells the Wars or comic books to un- was basically that we had to “happy birthday” to get ev- met its mission to serve the now owners how to properly dergird his professional phi- abuse him,” Weiser quips. “We eryone involved. They were schools, it has expanded the care for their new old piano. losophy or the direction of his had to show him that if he hooked. Then he went into a program to deliver donated pi- “In an ideal world, these organization. It’s a common was going to come to Erie for Mozart variation. When the anos to individuals, mostly el- kids will fall in love with the trait for those of us of a cer- no money, that we were going class was over he came off ementary and middle school- piano and even if they don’t tain age and it helps to explain to effectively utilize his time.” stage and asked, ‘Do you think aged children who take piano go into a career in music lat- some of the bravado that Ax is one of the most that was okay?’” lessons but can’t necessarily sought-after and renowned pi- The Ax tour of Erie schools afford to have a piano at home. anists in the world. He came to last March, Lisa Vroman’s Two years ago, Wattsburg El- Erie for a week last March for equally well-received visit this ementary fifth grader Taylor no fee as part of a community fall, and Grammy Award-win- Balogh received an electronic outreach program that ulti- ning guitarist Sharon Isbin’s keyboard as a gift from her mately led to the Philharmon- arrival later this spring are the grandfather. It was the impe- ic’s first symphonic sell-out outgrowth of a larger success tus for her to take piano les- in 26 years and a $100,000 gift matrix that Weiser and his sons from her school’s music from Erie Insurance Chair- team have forged during his teacher, Leslie Lopez. But Tay- man Tom Hagen. tenure as executive director. lor’s keyboard didn’t have the Less than an hour after ar- “Steve and his staff don’t hes- range of a traditional piano. riving in Erie, Ax found him- itate to think ‘why don’t we “Taylor had just started to self inside Emerson Gridley ask the best piano player in use the foot pedals at her les- Elementary School, which the world to come to Erie and sons, but she didn’t have that wasn’t necessarily a forgiving see if he will do it for free?,’” to practice on at home,” re- environment for a classical pi- says Knox. “It’s these almost calls Taylor’s mom, Sarah. “So anist. He played there for 200 crazy ‘you’re too big for your I started to look for pianos, kids in a wrestling gym on an britches’ ideas that have real- but it wasn’t really in our fu- CONTRIBUTED PHOTO upright piano that had just ly panned out. And I think it ture financially to buy a piano. been donated to the school works because a lot of these Then Taylor’s teacher sent me
12 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com January 3, 2018 FEATURE
Knox alluded to when talking grams that are recognized by “Also having a staff around essarily share. But by the time dress rehearsal echoing with about the chutzpah it takes the National Endowment for you that is as crazy as you are, Weiser and company took the pleasant eeriness through- to pick up the phone and ask the Arts, and the cavalcade of but is also not afraid to be ‘no’ reigns, the organization was out the cavernous halls. That the world’s best musicians to stars that have come to Erie for men. I don’t want ‘yes’ men. in need of a distinct mission night the rehearsal includ- travel to a town they’ve like- the benefit of ticket holders as When George Lucas made Star that could be articulated and ed the General McLane High ly never heard of to feed the well as the community at large Wars episodes 4-6, he had Ste- carried out. That’s translated School vocal ensemble, which cultural appetites of a diverse — and notes that although he ven Spielberg over his shoul- to the work being done in and had been a part of a master cross-section of stakeholders. produces most of the organi- der saying, ‘Come on, you can’t out of the office as well as the class offered by Lisa Vro- “It used to be said that ‘I’m zation’s marketing and social do that because…’ But when music being performed with man just weeks before. The going to the Philharmonic’ as media content, redesigned he did episodes 1-3, no one music director Daniel Meyer students were returning the if it was some lofty Victorian the Phil website, developed a would tell him he couldn’t or at the baton. Phil’s favor by participating high culture event to go to,” smartphone app, and works he shouldn’t. You don’t want to “Before it was as good as any in this year’s holiday show. As Knox remembers. “Steve has, in a seemingly tireless cycle be in that position.” similar orchestra doing simi- they rehearsed their songs, in essence, flipped that script of promotion and production, According to Knox, the Phil- lar things,” Knox says. “Now, Weiser told me about their ex- and taken it to the people. it is in fact the team that sur- harmonic staff is “kind of this it’s really become quite re- perience with Vroman and the The Philharmonic has literally rounds him that keeps him street gang of musical people markable.” work she had done with these gone to the streets on a num- honest about his work and the who really love their job. It’s The night before the Erie students. ber of occasions with free con- future of the Phil. a unique blend and it really Philharmonic Christmas Con- “It’s kind of come full circle,” I certs and other events that are “I remember at the begin- works. Steve and his staff do cert, I met Steve Weiser in the said in reply. so much more connected to ning someone in the orchestra everything together. They go semi-lit lobby of the Warner He smiled. the community. We’ve broad- saying, ‘Oh, you’re going to be out together, they’re friends. Theater to discuss the recent “It always comes full circle,” ened the base without cheap- hands on.’ Well, I don’t know It really has become this proj- past and future of the Erie he said. “Luke always meets ening the product.” how to not be that way. In the ect that they all enjoy working Philharmonic. We sat and talk- his father.” Despite his success, Weiser same way that being a musi- on instead of a job that they ed at a table situated amid the humbly references his accom- cian with the orchestra first don’t want to do anymore at 5 darkened ornamentation of Jim Wertz can be reached plishments — the broadening meant that this had always o’clock.” the historic landmark discuss- at [email protected], of the Philharmonic base, on- been a passion of mine,” he It’s a closed circle philosophy ing what might come next, and you can follow him going community impact pro- says. that prior Phil staff didn’t nec- the sounds of the orchestra in on Twitter @jim_wertz.
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and is the only ranked hospital in Erie. Arts and cultural experiences prepare students for success in Why would you choose to go anywhere else? We’re proud to once again be recognized school, work and life. by U.S. News & World Report as one of Pennsylvania’s Best Hospitals on their Best THE ARTS & CULTURE CAMPAIGN Regional Hospital List. Being ranked 9th out of nearly 250 Pennsylvania hospitals puts us in the top 4.4% of hospitals in the state. We are also the only ranked hospital in Erie. To learn more about world-class care close to home, visit UPMCHamot.org. GIVE TODAY www.erieartsandculture.org Photo Credit: A local student tie-dyes at Erie Arts & Culture’s booth during JUMP! Back to School Expo 2016
January 3, 2018 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 13 The New Year is the perfect time to make fascinating new friends. Wishing you and your fur friends a great In your corner of the County 2018. Blasco ANIMAL ARK PET HOSPITAL Iroquois 3024 W. 12th St. • (814)838-7387 Millcreek ANIMAL KINGDOM PET HOSPITAL 2222 E. 38th St. • (814)825-0463 By: Ellen Paquette Lincoln animalarkkin dom com Get acquainted with some intriguing Edinboro creatures at Glass Growers Gallery Bookmobile 10 East 5th St. Erie, PA 16507 (814) 453-3758 erielibrary.org glassgrowersgallery.com
14 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com January 3, 2018 Spotlight on Erie January 3 – 16, 2018
Saturday, Jan. 6 Friday, Jan. 12 whether you recognize him or not. to be some real-deal sound-sorcery Decades worth of experience will in- kickin’ about. Jam Out with Digging Gardell Good’ens: a TV sure that each of these performances And did we mention it’s free? Roots Band Star with Street Cred will be a riotous good time. — Nick Happy holidays, indeed. — Ryan Warren Smith
Friday and Saturday 6:45 and 9:30 p.m. 10 p.m. // 1921 Peach St. // facebook. // 1402 State St. // $30 // (814) 461-0911 // com/kingsrookclub jrslastlaugh.com Saturday, Jan. 13 Friday, Jan. 12 Homeless Gospel Choir a Prog Forces Reawaken Glove for Sore Thumbs at the Rook
es, we are all shell-shocked here in YErie from our humble town turn- ing into The Wall, the mythical, frozen border in Game of Thrones respon- sible for (mostly) keeping the white lthough he’s best known as the walkers out. So, no snow talk. Instead, Atitular “Mike” alongside mega-star this January we’re going to rediscov- Melissa McCarthy from the CBS sit- er that music has the power to warm com Mike & Molly, comedian Billy the heart and soul — and whatever it Gardell is an incredibly hardworking ake a step through the front doors can’t warm, some whiskey will. Start comedian with deep roots in western of Basement Transmissions at any your defrost cycle at the Kings Rook Pennsylvania. Born in Swissvale, just T given show and you may notice more Club as Digging Roots Band with Ped- outside of Pittsburgh, Gardell lived here’ll be a heartwarming than a few sore thumbs sticking out dlers Moon heat up the stage. around the city until his family moved around-the-holidays reunion — from the crowd. Whether it’s in the Digging Roots frontman Toby Lind- to Florida while he was in high school. T plus a sweet sonic revival, and an Erie way they’re dressed, the color of their berg explained that the band came His Steel City origins are immediate- all-stars’ public reveal of sorts, too — hair, or simply the fact that they’re in together in 2012 through a shared love ly apparent when you try to place come mid-January at the King’s Rook an intimate setting witnessing loud of music, particularly American roots Gardell’s subtly biting yinzer accent. Club. obnoxious music up close and person- sounds. While they have been known In Florida he quickly broke into com- On Friday, Jan. 12, club members are al while mainstream entertainment to genre-hop, the outfit remains true edy, starting when he was 17. Gardell invited to a first-(and-second)-time- suggests that they spend their time to its Delta blues and jam roots. Ex- returned to the Keystone State every ever get-down with two jamtastic su- in the club or bar scenes, each person pect to hear hints of rock, soul, R&B summer, landing his first Pittsburgh pergroups — Cauliflower Ninja and at BT has their own reason why being and gospel in their set. gig in Monroeville at an Al Monzo-run the Paulsabilities — for FREE. “normal” doesn’t cut it for them. In keeping with the jam band theme, comedy club in the basement of the Headliner Cauliflower Ninja is com- Pittsburgh based folk-punkers The Lindberg mentioned his band will Parkvale Bank Building. prised (as those in the know may have Homeless Gospel Choir address the incorporate a tribute to the Allman He’s been on the road ever since. already guessed, or at least suspect- unifying feeling of going against the Brothers Band. They will also sneak Working clubs large and small, the ed) of current and former members grain that is felt by everyone who is in songs from their albums Muddy fast-talking, well-seasoned profes- of Cleveland-based prog-jam power- part of any underground music scene Water and Bring it Home. sional has honed his talents to a ra- house Broccoli Samurai. Cauliflower in their latest album Normal. The Perhaps most significantly at this zor’s edge. He respects the lifestyle of Ninja is a just-for-kicks reformation anthemic centerpiece and title track early 2018 gig, they also aim to bring a working comedian and openly ac- of the band’s 2013-14 era lineup, which of the album couldn’t portray that their unifying sentiments to Erie. The knowledges how fortunate he’s been Broccoli fans will agree (and newcom- message any clearer with the lyrics: band firmly upholds the belief that in his career. In 2014 he presented a ers will see) was one helluva tasty “You’re never gonna be normal, be- music brings everyone together. It’s comedy special named for what he period for one of the region’s favorite cause you’re a punk.” The statement something that transcends age, race, and his fellow traveling performers live performing acts. isn’t meant as an insult, but rather a geographical location and genera- refer to themselves as: Road Dogs. And ah, the Paulsabilities: Perform- term of endearment. The song lets the tions. “Music just makes everyone feel If you’re having any trouble placing ing live on a public stage for only the listener know that outcasts and odd- great and can be therapeutic,” said Gardell from television, try picturing second time ever, they’re an all-star balls aren’t shunned, but instead wel- Lindberg. him police uniform. Between multiple collection of some of Erie’s finest live comed in this scene, because it’s not If there is anything that can start appearances on My Name is Earl, and musicians, led by renowned local just made for them, but also by them. off January in the right way, it’s a 127 episodes of the aforementioned guitarist Paul Schillinger (Shotgun Playing alongside The Homeless stellar show from Western New York Mike & Molly, portraying a lawman Jubilee) and joined by Justin Tapper Gospel Choir are fellow Pittsburgh neighbors at the Kings Rook Club. So, on both (not to mention a memorable and Chris Head of The LEC and Joe punkers Lawn Care, who despite hav- come together and hear some great scene as a security guard in Bad San- Cieslack (Eric Brewer & Friends, Sule ing a horns section insist that they ar- tunes. — Miriam Lamey ta), Gardell is certainly no stranger to Tahirovic). en’t a ska band. Cleveland punks Two uniform. Whoa. Hand Fools are the only non-Pa. band 10 p.m. // 1921 Peach St // (814) 456-6439 His quick wit and snarky observa- With all that, there’s surely bound on the bill. Indie dream-pop collective // memberships available tions will quickly get you howling
January 3, 2018 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 15 CALENDAR
Cult Classics, punk rockers Wasted matchboxes and Zippo lighters. These comparison, Les Miserables clocks in ety will host a neutrally-moderated Info, and the acoustic punk stylings were fused with innovative, imagi- at almost three hours), yet promises Viaduct Town Hall to discuss the of Britches comprise the Erie-based native choreography. Since then, the to hold the entire audience rapt with planning, cost, and safety issues sur- opening acts. — Tommy Shannon UK-based show has reached iconic, technically impressive beats, sounds, rounding the structure’s removal. instantly recognizable status world- and motions — all of which seem im- The project is currently slated to be- 6:30 p.m. // 145 W. 11th St // $10 advance, wide. It was featured in the 2012 Lon- possibly cool. — Cara Suppa gin in late winter or early spring and $12 doors // thehomelessgospelchoir. don Olympics closing ceremony, and conclude this fall. When completed, com has played continuously in London’s 7:30 p.m. both Tuesday and Wednesday East Avenue will be sealed off with West End for the last 15 years, garner- // 811 State Street // $43.75-53.75 // fenced cul de sacs on either side of Tuesday, Jan. 16 ing handfuls of major awards along erieevents.com/events/stomp the CSX Railroad Lines, which would the way. force foot and bike traffic to redirect Stamp on downtown for Tuesday, Jan. 16 ‘Stomp’ at the Warner Now it is pulsing its way into the onto the bustling Bayfront Connector renovation-enhanced Warner Theatre Save the Date, Save (although sidewalk/accessibility im- as part of the Broadway in Erie series, the Viaduct provements are planned to that end). giving music lovers in this small city This would pose a major inconve- something worth braving the frosty nience to the East Side communities January temperatures and heading affected. downtown for. This ensemble is part ErieCPR: Connect+Respect Pres- of the latest North American tour, and ident Adam Trott, Vice President while the thumps, scrapes and brush- Beary Clark, Spokesperson Micheal ing are as lively and unchanged as Keys, NAACP President Gary Horton, ever, the show boasts two brand new and Rev. Charles Mock of the Afri- routines that add even more unex- can-American-Concerned-Clergy echo pected props into the mix. their community’s conviction to save Theatergoers who cannot make the bridge and hope to convince Penn- the Tuesday night performance will DOT and City of Erie leadership of the have a second opportunity to catch viaduct’s continuing viability. They hen Stomp first premiered on the one-hour and forty-five minute invite you to join the conversation, be- Wstages in 1991, it created a sensa- show on Wednesday. Stomp provides yclists and pedestrians who fre- cause healthy dialogue between gov- tion. The eight-member ensemble per- an excellent opportunity for parents Cquent the McBride Viaduct have ernment and the governed is the path formed shows unlike anything ever who want to infuse a little culture into walked the walk, now it’s time to talk democracy ought to walk. — Matt seen before, with percussive “songs” their kids’ lives, as the envelope-push- the talk for those who would prevent Swanseger played out using ordinary house- ing yet accessible act runs much brief- its planned demolition. hold items like brooms, trash cans, er than most Broadway shows (by The Jefferson Educational Soci- 6 to 8 p.m. // 3207 State St. // free
arundelcellars.com. and Music Premiere Glass Growers Jan. 14 — 2 to 4 p.m. Gallery, 10 E. 5th St. MUSIC Electric Sensi and FOOD & DRINK Jan. 5 -- 5:30 p.m. to midnight Erie Art Museum, 411 State glassgrowersgallery.com. St. erieartmuseum.org. Cult Classics Wave Trails Instant Pot (Electric PACA, 1505 State St. facebook.com. Jan. 3 — 8:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. Jan. 12 — 9:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. Pressure Cooker) Demo Ancient Ink: Watercolors on Paper Mark Perrott Scotty’s Martini Lounge, 301 Scotty’s Martini Lounge, 301 Jan. 6 — 1 to 3 p.m. Wonder Woman Jan. 15 through Feb. Ongoing through Jan. 28 11 (Reception Jan. German St. facebook.com. German St. facebook.com. Whole Foods Co-op, 1341 W. Jan. 10 — 6 p.m. 26th St. vegancheers.com. Erie Art Museum, 411 State 18 — 5 to 7 p.m.) Deven Shah Cauliflower Ninja and Bourbon Barrel, 1213 State St. erieartmuseum.org. Mercyhurst University Jan. 5 — noon The Paulsabilities Mind, Body, Beer St. filmsocietynwpa.org. Cummings Gallery, 501 E. 38th Tattoosday WQLN Studios, 8425 Jan. 12 — 10 p.m. to midnight Jan. 9, 23 — 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Dunkirk St. miac.mercyhurst.edu. Ongoing through Jan. 28 Peach St. wqln.org. Kings Rook Club, 1921 Erie Ale Works, 416 W. 12th Jan. 17 — 6 p.m. Peach St. facebook. St. eriealeworks.com. Erie Art Museum, 411 State THEATER Electric Orange Peel Bourbon Barrel, 1213 State com/kingsrookclub. St. erieartmuseum.org. Jesus Christ Superstar Jan. 5 — 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Bare the Barrels St. filmsocietynwpa.org. The Homeless Annual Faculty, Staff, Jan. 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27 — 7:30 Kings Rook Club, 1921 Jan. 12 through Jan. 15 p.m. & Jan. 14, 21, 28 — 2 p.m. Peach St. facebook. Gospel Choir THEATER and Alumni Art Show Various Locations, The Academy Theatre, com/kingsrookclub. Jan. 13 -- 7 to 11 p.m. Ongoing through Feb. 8 lakeeriewinecountry.org. Stomp 275 Chestnut St. Penn State Behrend, 4701 Hydrashock Basement Transmissions, 145 Jan. 16, 17— 7:30 p.m. theacademytheatre.org. W. 11th St. facebook.com. FILM College Dr. sites.psu.edu. Jan. 5 — 10 p.m. to midnight Warner Theatre, 811 State Aircraft Carriers St. erieevents.com. COMMUNITY Sherlocks, 508 State Wanyama Mark Weber: Animals St. facebook.com. Jan. 13 — 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Ongoing — 11 a.m. & Ongoing through Feb.11 Great Lakes Shipwreck 2 p.m. & 5 p.m. VISUAL ARTS Erie Art Museum, 411 State Exhibition Diggin’ Roots Band Kings Rook Club, 1921 Peach St. facebook. Tom Ridge Environmental Sensing the Unseen St. erieartmuseum.org. Ongoing through Apr. 13, 2018 and Peddler’s Moon Center, 301 Peninsula Dr. com/kingsrookclub. Ongoing through Jan. 3 Tom Ridge Environmental Jan. 6 — 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. biggreenscreen.com. Daniel Burke: Callings Sam Hyman The Kada Gallery, 2632 W. Center, 301 Peninsula Kings Rook Club, 1921 Prehistoric Planet 8th St. kadagallery.com. Ongoing through Apr. 8 Dr. trecpi.org. Peach St. facebook. Jan. 14 — 1 to 4 p.m. Ongoing — noon & 3 p.m. Erie Art Museum, 411 State com/kingsrookclub. Arundel Cellars & Brewing Tin Plated Dreams: St. erieartmuseum.org. DiscoverE - Fish Co., 11727 E. Main Rd. Tom Ridge Environmental Sculptures by Jan. 3 — 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Daytona Beach 2000 Center, 301 Peninsula Dr. Look & See: A Portrait arundelcellars.com. William Brady, Jr. Tom Ridge Environmental Jan. 6 — 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. biggreenscreen.com. of Wendell Berry Ongoing through Jan. 7 Center, 301 Peninsula Just Dance Snowball Jan. 12 — 7 to 9 p.m. Sherlocks, 508 State Flight of the Butterflies Erie Art Museum, 411 State Dr. trecpi.org. St. facebook.com. with Matt Texter and Ongoing — 1 p.m. & 4 p.m. St. erieartmuseum.org. The Vukovich Center for Sandra Schuschu Communication Arts at Wellness Wednesdays: Uncharted Course Jan. 14 — 7 to 11 p.m. Tom Ridge Environmental Rachael Burke, Allegheny College, 520 N. Qi Gong Classes Jan. 7 — 1 to 4 p.m. Center, 301 Peninsula Dr. Recent Paintings Main St. facebook.com. Jan. 3, 10 — 1 to 2 p.m. Scotty’s Martini Lounge, 301 biggreenscreen.com. Arundel Cellars & Brewing German St. facebook.com. Ongoing through Jan. 10 Second Sundays Lincoln Community Center Co., 11727 E. Main Rd. Mechanical Heart Film Library, 1255 Manchester
16 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com January 3, 2018 1/2 PRICE EVERYTHING Every Wednesday Enjoy 1/2 off most every PLUS 5 PM () liquid libation 9-11 PM SHELLFISH 814.453.6454 SPECTACULAR www.plymouthtavern.com Wednesdays only 1109 State St, Erie, PA 16501
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18 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com January 3, 2018 CALENDAR Must See Shows Mechanical Heart premiere and arts education benefit at PACA
Local filmmaker Jack Rys’ latest movie, This relationship with local music Mechanical Heart, is “set in Erie, shot also shows in the benefit’s opening in Erie, [and] acted by Erieites,” like Ken acts, some of which have contributed Brundage, seen here. to Rys’ films; the bill includes Cult Clas- sics, Wave Trails and Elias, If Only while er that his intent matters far less than Mechanical Heart features a local cast, how an audience interprets his work. including Ken Brundage and Luke Wey- But here’s what we know about Me- land among others. The film is not rat- chanical Heart: it’s the story of a stage ed, but according to its content warn- actor that has a surgical accident, leav- ing, “would likely garner an R rating due ing his voice heavily damaged. During to heavy language, disturbing images, our discussion, Rys cites David Lynch brief drug use, mild violence and brief as his biggest influence, but compares nudity.” the film to Fredrico Fellini’s8½ — an- If these aspects of the benefit weren’t other piece about an artist’s frustration already enough to classify it as a “Must- that tempts Rys to call his latest a black See Show,” Rys’ pure confidence in his comedy. work should certainly do the trick.
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Rys is eager to elaborate on his rela- “Every film I’ve done builds upon it- tionship with local collaborators. self, from my work sophomore year [of who is quick to bring up the role com- “The music and theater communities high school] to Mechanical Heart,” says FRIDAY, JAN. 5TH munity plays in his work. in Erie are the two communities that Rys. “There’s more concise storytelling, efore we get to the plot of Jack Rys’ “It’s about community, it’s about per- I feel most rooted in, and this film is more concise acting, production val- Bfourth feature film, Mechanical formance and it’s even about Erie a lit- about theater, so I collaborated heav- ue...I hope the next film I do is better Heart, he wants you to know that this tle bit,” says Rys of his new film. “I don’t ily with the Erie Playhouse,” says Rys. than this one. It’s a credit to yourself as premiere is different. The event doubles make any secrets of it; the film is set “I collaborated heavily with PACA. The a creator that you’re continually grow- as an arts education benefit, where Rys in Erie, shot in Erie, acted by Erieites. theater community is vital to this film. ing. I hope I peak when I’m 80. I hope hopes all proceeds will go toward fu- That’s what the film is about to me. But People like Mark Tanenbaum, Charlie the greatest film I make is my last. I ture artists who are struggling to find that could be different for a lot of peo- Corritore and Richard Davis play cari- doubt that will be the case, but I think the resources or encouragement to tell ple.” catures of themselves or people they that’s the goal.” — Aaron Mook their story. Outside of this glimpse into his rela- know. I wanted this to be a film not only Arts education is an unsurprising tionship with his hometown, Rys shies about the theater community, but by 5:30 p.m. to midnight // cause to attach to the young filmmaker, from giving away details, a firm believ- the theater community.” 1505 State Street // $8
Rd. erielibrary.org. a.m. to noon Erie Insurance Arena, 809 Hoover, DPT, LECOM St. jrslastlaugh.com. Jan. 13 — 7 p.m. French St. erieevents.com. Yoga Class for Kids Millcreek Branch Library, Jan. 11 — 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Fireside Talk - Owls Erie Insurance Arena, 809 2088 Interchange Rd. The Power of LifeWorks Erie, 406 Peach French St. erieevents.com. Jan. 3 — 4:45 to 5:45 p.m. & erielibrary.org. Jan. 12 — 7 to 8:30 p.m. Jan. 10 — 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. Human Touch St. lifeworkserie.org. Rotary Pavilion at Erie Otters vs. Flint Tumble 84, 4504 W. Ridge Rd. Winter Survival Skills Jan. 8 — 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. ScienceGo! Presque Isle State Park, 1 Jan. 14 — 5 p.m. apluseventsforkids.com. Jan. 6 — 10:30 a.m. LifeWorks Erie, 406 Peach Jan. 11, 25 — 6 to 7 p.m. Peninsula Dr. trecpi.org. Erie Insurance Arena, 809 to 12:30 p.m. St. lifeworkserie.org. Erie Otters vs. Tom Ridge Environmental French St. erieevents.com. Asbury Woods Nature How to Meditate: It’s Center, 301 Peninsula Mississauga Center, 4105 Asbury Rd. Presque Isle Not What You Think Tots in Nature Class: Dr. trecpi.org. Jan. 3 — 7 p.m. asburywoods.org. History Series Jan. 13 — 10 a.m. to noon My Many Colored Day Erie Insurance Arena, 809 Jan. 8, 22, 29 — 6 to 7 p.m. The German Cultural Plasha Yoga Studio, 3330 W. Jan. 15, 18 — 9 to 10 a.m. Cross Country French St. erieevents.com. Tom Ridge Environmental Society Monthly Meeting 26th St. plashayoga.com. Ski Clinics Asbury Woods Nature Center, 301 Peninsula Jan. 11 — 7 p.m. Center, 4105 Asbury Rd. Zumbini Jan. 6, 13 — 10:30 Coloring for Grown-Ups Dr. trecpi.org. asburywoods.org. Jan. 5 — 10 to 10:45 a.m. a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Erie Maennerchor Club, Jan. 13, 20, 27 — 10 1607 State St. gcsoe.org. Lincoln Community Center Asbury Woods Nature Read to a Therapy Dog a.m. to noon Preschool Nature Library, 1255 Manchester Center, 4105 Asbury Rd. Jan. 9 — 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Stars and Stripes Iroquois Avenue Branch Discovery Class - All the asburywoods.org. Rd. erielibrary.org. Lincoln Community Center Gymnastics Invitational Library, 4212 Iroquois Colors of the Rainbows Ave. erielibrary.org. Snowshoe Clinics Library, 1255 Manchester Jan. 12 through Jan. 15 Jan. 15, 18 — 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Erie BayHawks Rd. erielibrary.org. vs. Raptors Jan. 6, 13 — 1:30 to 3 p.m. Bayfront Convention Refreshing Salt Scrubs Asbury Woods Nature Center, 4105 Asbury Rd. Jan. 5 — 7 p.m. Asbury Woods Nature Gentle Yoga & Center, 1 Sassafras Pier Jan. 13 — 11 a.m. to noon erieevents.com. asburywoods.org. Erie Insurance Arena, 809 Center, 4105 Asbury Rd. Meditation: Level 1 Lincoln Community Center asburywoods.org. French St. erieevents.com. Jan. 9, 16 — 6 to 7:30 p.m. P.O2.NY International Library, 1255 Manchester DiscoverE - Flurries Rd. erielibrary.org. Master Builders Edinboro Branch Library, Basketball Showcase Jan. 17 — 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Erie Warhawks 413 Plum St. erielibrary.org. Battle On The Bay Jan. 6 — 2 to 3 p.m. Jan. 12, 13, 14 Board Game Event: Tom Ridge Environmental Center, 301 Peninsula Lincoln Community Center Read to a Therapy Dog McDowell High School, Game On! Jan. 6, 7 Dr. trecpi.org. 3580 W. 38th St. Jan. 13 — 2 to 4 p.m. Bayfront Convention Library, 1255 Manchester Jan. 10, 17 — 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Rd. erielibrary.org. eriesportscommission.com. Center, 1 Sassafras Pier Edinboro Branch Library, Lincoln Community Center 5 Ways to a Younger You erieevents.com. Erie BayHawks 413 Plum St. erielibrary.org. Billy Gardell Library, 1255 Manchester Jan. 17 — 6 to 7 p.m. Rd. erielibrary.org. Coloring for Grown-Ups vs. Long Island Mind-Behavior Jan. 12, 13 — 6:45 Millcreek Municipal p.m. & 9:30 p.m. Building, 2301 W. 12th Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27— 10 Jan. 6 — 7 p.m. Connection with Shireen Erie Otters vs. Niagara Jr’s Last Laugh, 1402 State St. lifeworkserie.org.
January 3, 2018 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 19 CALENDAR Film Grain: Dinner and a Movie Film Society of NWPA’s new series off to a “Wonder”-ful start
The critically acclaimed superhero flick Wonder Woman launches the Film Society pizzas, a taco and nacho bar, and pop- of NWPA’s new “Film Grain” series, taking corn and candy (no movie in this town place Wednesdays through April at the would be complete without it). Even Bourbon Barrel. better, moviegoers will be able to take advantage of Bourbon Barrel’s well- stocked bar (not included with admis- Wonder Woman and continuing into sion). April, the Film Society of NWPA, in con- While the film line-up includes crit- junction with the Bourbon Barrel, will ically acclaimed blockbusters like present a series of nights focused on Wonder Woman and Dunkirk, smaller, fabulous food and film. The series, en- quieter films like Lady Bird and The titled “Film Grain: Dinner and a Movie,” Big Sick will no doubt draw crowds as represents part of what John C. Lyons, well. Lyons remarked about the mov- Executive Director of the Film Society ie choices, “It’s the heavy hitters, from of NWPA, views as his organization’s various genres — drama, comedy, ac- commitment to bringing high-qual- tion, thriller — with a couple fun ones ity film to the downtown area, on the thrown into the mix.” Both he and the heels of the popular “Film at the Erie lead staff plan on polling attendees for Art Museum” series. feedback about the entire experience. “We found a new partnership in The series is sponsored by the Erie Derek Smith and the Bourbon Barrel. Reader and WQLN Public Media (as I’ve quickly learned the Bourbon Bar- well as the Cultured Pearl for this flag- rel is always looking for new ideas to ship event). Memberships to the Film improve the downtown experience Society are available for purchase, and are very supportive of regional and the organization also encourages non-profits and causes,” Lyons said. sponsorships by the many business-
WARNER BROS. ENTERTAINMENT INC. AND RATPAC-DUNE ENTERTAINMENT LLC ENTERTAINMENT INC. AND RATPAC-DUNE ENTERTAINMENT BROS. WARNER The bar will be transformed for these es in Erie, as “sponsor groups receive Wednesdays, with admission entire- great perks.” Lyons and the Film So- boring. It’s black, white, and blah. You ly limited to filmgoers. There will be a ciety hope to see these events grow WEDNESDAY, JAN. 10 could start a nap halfway through and 16-foot screen, a variety of seating op- because, as Lyons remarked, “...a suc- here was a time when the go-to not feel you missed much. tions and a buffet-style dinner provid- cessful series like this definitely plays Tdate was simply “dinner and a mov- Leave it to the Film Society of North- ed before the showing, which is includ- into our big economic development ie.” You went and had dinner and then western PA to give the tired old “dinner ed with the admission fee. goals for the region.” — Cara Suppa you headed to your local cinema and and a movie” concept the reboot it — “Chef Ashley Sayre de Rivas is going caught a flick. It was comfortable and and the people of Erie — so desperate- to provide us with a tasty meal each 5:00 p.m. doors, 6:00 p.m. dinner, reliable, yet this date night idea is like ly needed. night — including vegetarian selec- 7:00 p.m. Intro and Movie // 1213 an old-timey movie that doesn’t quite Starting Wednesday, January 10 tions,” Lyons enthused. Options for State Street // filmsocietynwpa. meet “classic” standards. It’s a little with the excellent (and wildly popular) the first viewing include fresh-dough org/screenings.html // $12
20 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com January 3, 2018 A church of miracles. It's Jesus' church. It can be your church, too. Come and see.
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January 3, 2018 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 21 Presented by Film Society of NWPA Answers to last issue’s puzzle
Bourbon Barrel $12 Admission 1213 State St, Erie, PA 6 PM Dinner | 7 PM FILM
UPCOMING SHOWS: WONDER WOMAN (2017) JAN 10 | 6PM DINNER, 7PM MOVIE When a pilot crashes and tells of conflict in the outside world, Diana, an Amazonian warrior in training, leaves home to fight a war, discovering her powers and true destiny. Sponsored by Cultured Purl Knit Shop PG-13 & Brick Red Entities DUNKIRK (2017) JAN 17 | 6PM DINNER, 7PM MOVIE Allied soldiers from Belgium, the British Empire, and France are surrounded by the German Army, and evacuated during a fierce battle in World War II. PG-13 Sponsored by Veterans Miracle Center Erie
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22 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com January 3, 2018 CROSSWORD
Across 54. "Deliciously Different" 22. Locket, often sloganeer 24. Gear teeth 1. Half a school yr. 56. Hundreds 26. Chicago Bears 4. Landmark tech product 58. Bat one's eyelashes, say coaching legend Mike of 1981 60. Person unrepresented 27. Old New Yorker 9. 2008 Pixar robot by the words featured in cartoonist William 14. When a plane is due in, this puzzle's circled letters 29. Diva's solo for short 62. Counting rhyme start 30. What your blood may 15. Jason's wife in 63. 1970 Led Zeppelin hit do when you're frightened mythology "Whole ____ Love" 31. Part of a modern police 16. Be of use 64. Jeff Lynne's band, for database 17. TV slogan famously short 32. Diane with a camera voiced by James Earl Jones 65. More than willing 33. Negro Leagues legend 19. Country music's LeAnn 66. Discombobulated Satchel 20. Dangles a carrot in 67. "... or ____ gather" 34. Conservatives, front of politically 21. Beer can feature 37. "Twist, Lick, Dunk" 23. Otherwise Down cookie 24. Bullfighters wave them 1. Number of giorni in a 39. Texting format, for 25. Byways: Abbr. week short 28. Wife of John Jr. 2. Waters who sang "Am I 40. One getting framed 31. "Stop procrastinating!" Blue?" 42. Turndown to the 32. Mo. when Earth Day is 3. Hurts badly suggestion "We should ..." celebrated 4. "You're looking at your 46. Bribery of a sort 35. Persians, e.g. guy!" 47. Bear of children's lit 36. Visit a bloodmobile, e.g. 5. "Porgy and ____" 49. Stage direction 38. Oatmeal topping 6. Year in Elizabeth I's reign 51. Total messes 40. Engage in an extreme 7. Foreign correspondents? 52. "Is anybody listening winter sport 8. Shade provider ...?" 41. Golden Arches buy 9. Targets of salicylic acid 53. "Me, too" 42. Word with exit or 10. New Balance 55. Cleveland's lake express competitor 56. Cell suffix 43. Laser ____ 11. Traditional Easter 57. March Madness org. 44. Oral grimaces entree 58. Something that's 45. Like some tour buses 12. "Bald-faced" thing charged 48. Collected works 13. Golfer Ernie 59. Michele of "Glee" 49. Send over the moon 18. What many writers 61. Sulu and Uhura on "Star 50. Worker protection org. write on Trek": Abbr.
January 3, 2018 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 23 MOVIE REVIEWS
The Shape of Water: Sally Hawkins Falls in Love with a Fish Monster ... and it is Beautiful! At Edinboro University, ’ve always wondered about the story of Ithe regular workers in some vast, secret facility in movies. What do the janitors on you’re not just a student, the Death Star think of the Empire? Does a Bond villain’s evil lair have a front desk receptionist? Lucky for me, Guillermo del Toro (Pan’s Labyrinth, Pacific Rim) has fi- you’re a nally produced a spy film seen through the FOX TWENTIETH CENTURY eyes of blue collar workers in The Shape of Water. The film is about Elisa Esposito (Sally Hawkins), who works as a cleaning lady Fighting Scot. in a secret government building during the height of the Cold War. She soon dis- covers that this facility is housing a captured aquatic creature that the military is studying and performing cruel experiments on. Feeling pity for the creature, she takes it upon herself to rescue him and the two must flee from both American and Russian goons as their feelings for one another begin to grow. The film takes place in 1963 and does an excellent job lampooning the big Hol- lywood movies of the era, taking elements from Cold War spy movies as well as monster flicks. There’s even a big musical number thrown in there for good mea- sure. But at its heart, the film is really a love story between two lost, lonely souls. Elisa and her friends are all people who (literally and figuratively) have no voice in this world and watching them stick it to the forces of institutional power makes for a story we can all take enjoyment from. — Forest Taylor And that means you’ve got pride, spirit and an Directed by: Guillermo del Toro // Written by: del Toro and Vanessa Taylor // Starring: Sally Hawkins, Michael Shannon, Octavia Spencer, unyielding desire to learn, grow and succeed. Richard Jenkins, Michael Stuhlbarg and Doug Jones // 123 minutes
A New Hope?: Star Wars: The Last Jedi is an Ambitious Failure Visit EU on campus or online, and you’ll see
tar Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi has proved why more than 65,000 alumni have built the Sto be the most polarizing of all the films in the saga. Director Rian Johnson (Looper) has attempt- foundations of their success with an exceptional ed to take the series in some new and interesting directions, which have left some fans elated and and a ordable EU education. others furious. In my opinion, though, Johnson has
left us with an ambitious, well-meaning mess. LTD. LUCASFILMS The film continues the struggle between the he- roic Resistance and the evil First Order, but then splits the plot between three separate and barely related stories which give the characters very little time to interact and surprisingly little to do. Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac), after a thrilling • Criminal opening action scene, spends the entire film on a ship complaining to his com- mander (Laura Dern) in a subplot that could’ve been resolved if the characters • DUI had just sat down and talked with each other. Finn (John Boyega) and newcomer • Divorce Rose Tico (Kelly Marie Tran) are given a little more to do but most of their scenes are unnecessary as they don’t connect to the plot in any meaningful way. • Custody So all that we’re left with is Rey (Daisy Ridley) and her quest to learn from Luke ALLYSON is an EU alumna Skywalker the ways of the Force. This is the only time the film ever really comes and an award-winning bagpiper. • Personal Injury alive. Mark Hamill is terrific as an older, bitter Luke, who is reluctant to teach Rey. The scenes in which Rey and villain Kylo Ren (Adam Driver) interact are the highlights of the film. Ridley and Driver have a real chemistry and their scenes to- Kenneth A. Bickel, Esq. gether are filled with a dramatic tension that is lacking in the rest of the feature. Bickel Law Office Ultimately, The Last Jedi is admirable for trying to go in a new direction, but it 557 West 8th Street lacks the romantic drive and sense of adventure that really make Star Wars so Erie, PA 16508 special. — Forest Taylor
Written and directed by: Rian Johnson // Starring: Daisy Ridley, Adam Driver, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, Kelly Marie Tran, Laura Dern, Apply today or plan your visit at go.edinboro.edu 888-846-2676 • FREE CONSULTATIONS • Benicio Del Toro, Mark Hamill and Carrie Fisher // 152 minutes
24 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com /Edinboro @Edinboro @EdinboroU January 3, 2018 At Edinboro University, you’re not just a student, you’re a Fighting Scot.
And that means you’ve got pride, spirit and an unyielding desire to learn, grow and succeed.
Visit EU on campus or online, and you’ll see why more than 65,000 alumni have built the foundations of their success with an exceptional and a ordable EU education.
ALLYSON is an EU alumna and an award-winning bagpiper.
Apply today or plan your visit at go.edinboro.edu 888-846-2676
/Edinboro @Edinboro @EdinboroU MUSIC REVIEWS
Eminem Serpent Power N.E.R.D. Glassjaw Revival Electric Looneyland NO_ONE EVER REALLY DIES Material Control Interscope Records Skeleton Key Records i am OTHER Century Media
f there’s a sin- ere’s a little ith an all- lassjaw is Igle redeeming Hsecret that Wstar cast Gtechnically quality to Emi- music critics that’s virtually the second out- nem’s Revival, it’s have become a who’s who of fit of Long Island that it has more well-aware of: today’s best pop legends to rise heart than the nothing really and hip-hop art- from the dead in MC has shown in comes out be- ists, this album 2017, but due to almost a decade. Unfortunately, inten- tween the middle of December and is a persistent party mix from front to the entertainment industry’s current tions, and technical ability only go so the middle of January. Sure, there back. Past its bombastic, dance-friend- purge of abusers in positions of power, far. Outside of a number of self-aware might be the occasional outlier, a Run ly exterior, NO_ONE EVER REALLY DIES they’ll likely be the only one you read throwbacks (particularly the album’s the Jewels 3 (released last Christmas (a nice, almost eponymous backronym) about on 2017 End of the Year lists. Ma- closing run, “Castle” into “Arose”), Re- Eve), or a Blackstar (released on Jan- finds the producer-laden supergroup terial Control is the Glassjaw’s first full- vival is a bloated, indecisive, 76-min- uary 8, two days before David Bowie’s finding a much needed sense of rel- length album in 15 years, and following ute slog that places Marshall Mathers death). Much like Oscar season has evance. The group – led by the iconic the release of two groundbreaking miles behind the artists that are cur- done for film, album release schedules Pharrell Williams – had an undeniable EPs, a single in 2016, and rumor after rently dominating the political-pop have grown in bonsai fashion around watershed moment way back in 2001 rumor of contract obligation to War- landscape. As many thinkpieces have the popularity of “Album of the Year” with their debut album In Search of… ner Brothers Records, I’m pleased to been quick to point out, Mathers sim- lists. This leaves critics large and small Since then, things have been slipping, report that the album is everything ply refuses to age alongside the genre. at a relative loss. The upside is some- until now. The group’s fifth LP in 16 that post-hardcore fans in 2002 and The shots he takes at Donald Trump times your search for the right record years, DIES find the band making all the 2017 alike could have wished for and are grin-inducing, but ultimately sur- cover leads you to a gem like Electric right, albeit easy decisions. It’s protest more. The strongest aspect of Materi- face-level; the album is largely split Looneyland. A glance at its savagely music lite. In its defense, the album al Control is the fact that it somehow between the old Eminem (“Offended”) neon cover, and it’s easy to imagine doesn’t shy away from present-day manages to introduce new sounds to and the new Eminem, which either re- thousands people getting the wrong social concerns (the tracks aren’t the Glassjaw’s repertoire while simulta- lies on radio-ready collaborations with impression, despite its tongue-in- ostrich-headed jubilation of Williams’ neously being their most streamlined the likes of Pink and Ed Sheeran or cheek nature. The band (not to be “Happy”), most evident in “Don’t Don’t release yet. It is an album that both places Rick Rubin behind the boards, confused with the similarly named ’60s Do It!” the first of two collaborations feels familiar and like a update to the utilizing an unfortunate number of rap- San Francisco septet, or the Kundalini with the ever-pertinent Kendrick Lamar band’s unique, bass and drum-driven rock samples (Seriously, Joan Jett and yoga book) consists of duo Ian Skelly (who returns with M.I.A on “Kites”). Be- riffage. There’s a duality and balance The Cranberries deserve much better). and Paul Molloy, of the Coral and the ginning with Rihanna and closing with between the chaos of guitarist Justin Still, Revival’s failures should hardly be Zutons respectively. Each track is Ed Sheeran guest spots, the album is Beck’s chops with the Deftones-es- enough to keep fans away as he’s well fuzzy, garage rock delight. The hypnot- an unrelenting string of high-energy que choruses provided by frontman earned our attention, even if his post- ic, psychedelic riffs swirl around each cuts, each one a potential hit. It’s music Daryl Palumbo (particularly on stand- 2010 output continues to lack the con- track, never losing steam for all of the you can feel good about, between the out single “Shira”) that only a veter- fidence and identity that defined his record’s quickly-passing 34 minutes. uptempo beats and well-meaning mes- an band could pull off so seamlessly. early work. — Aaron Mook — Nick Warren sages. — Nick Warren — Aaron Mook
TOMMY IN TOON — BY TOMMY LINK
26 | Erie Reader | ErieReader.com January 3, 2018 DOWNLOAD. DOWNTOWN.
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January 3, 2018 ErieReader.com | Erie Reader | 27