Erie’s only free, independent source for news, culture, and entertainment March 20 - April 2 / Vol. 3, No. 6 / ErieReader.com E I R

E READER Legendary Filmmaker Brings "" to Edinboro

John Waters spills on the Erie Canal, fax machines, anger, death, hitchhiking, Kardashians, and North Korea

Mishol Randolph, What Madam Ruby Sees: Local Elections, Corbett's Polling Numbers, Sinnott Uncontested, Bu alo Punk Explosion! and "Pure Doctor," "Sense and Sensibility," reviewed, The Grand Opening of The , Introducing: LGBT Voices and the Reader Eater, Music, Fashion, and Tech FREE 2 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com March 20, 2013 CONTENT March 20, 2013 FEATURE CULTURE 9 Editors-in-Chief: 8 Brian Graham & Adam Welsh the Reader eater Legendary Filmmaker Brings "This Our Mystery Food Critic Tries Breakfast Managing Editor: Filthy World" to Edinboro University Ben Speggen at The Summer House Cafe Contributing Editor: Cory Vaillancourt NEWS AND NOTES 12 If We Were You... Contributors: 4 UPFRONT Here’s what we would do Alex Bieler Municipal Election Predictions Brennan Donnelly 14 TO-DO LIST Pen Ealain 5 STREET CORNER SOAPBOX Matthew Flowers Buffalo Punk Explosion!, Pure Doctor John Lindvay Corbett's Poll Numbers Leslie McAllister 15 THEATER Rich McCarty 6 THE WAY I SEE IT "Sense and Sensibility" Reviewed Sinnott Uncontested, New Deputy Warden Jay Stevens 17 FASHION Rebecca Styn 6 Bryan Toy TECH WATCH The Street Fashionista The Return of the Digi-pet Copy Editor: 18 MUSIC Alex Bieler 7 LGBT Voices New All-ages Venue "The Bearded Lady" Designer: A Celebration of Erie's Diversity Burim Loshaj 19 CALENDAR Cover Design: Erie’s community calendar Burim Loshaj Photographer: 20 YOU OUGHT TO KNOW Matt Kleck Mishol Randolph Interns: Anna Cipriani matching wit for wit promptly made and it was only a What makes Mishol’s story so Daniel Gennaro From the Editors -- approached his time matter of hours before we received remarkable isn’t the hardships she’s Samantha Myers with Waters more as a a Facebook message from Mary. She faced -- it’s a harsh reality, but she’s conversation and less wrote excitedly about how DFSE certainly not alone when it comes to 32 W. Eighth St. #500 he pencil . The a strict, structured question-then- would be headed to New York the hell she’s been through -- but the Erie PA, 16501 slicked-back . The voice. answer format. What resulted was a City. After receiving nominations fact that she endured it all in a way [email protected] The laugh. The man who flowing dialogue with one of Amer- from DFS affiliates throughout the that would have crushed most peo- changed the course of independent ica’s most influential filmmakers and , DFS Worldwide had ple. This is exactly why You Ought to The Erie Reader is Erie’s only free , T film forever. icons who shares his thoughts on chosen Erie’s own Mishol Randolph Know her, as she should serve as in- independent source for news, culture, and This, if you can’t tell by our cover, everything from North Korea to the to represent all DFS women at its spiration to all of us as she’s become entertainment. The Erie Reader is a forum refers to the one and only John Wa- Kardashians in a candid discussion star-studded Gala on April 11. someone we can all be proud of to for ideas and discussion, and seeks to drive ters. Whether you know him from that you’ll only find here. At the event, Mishol will speak represent our city. two-way communication with its readers. At the indelible mark he has forever left Since we like to afford writers to over a thousand people, have her From funny and insightful inter- the Erie Reader, we endeavor to highlight the best of Erie by providing in-depth, magazine- on American cinema, or for the fact room for their stories to breathe, makeup done by Bobbi Brown’s views to stories that push a 50-pound style journalism that cuts to the heart of the that he has been a lightening rod for things don’t always turn out as we’d team, be fitted for a David Meister anvil on our chest and refuse to let issues that matter to Erie. The Erie Reader controversy his entire career, odds expect them. From the inception dress -- all things befitting a woman up, you’ll find all that in this issue -- is published every other week at The Corry are you’ve heard of him. Now, hear through the assignment, drafting, deserving of such honor. as well as two new columns. Journal, 28 W. South St., Corry, Pa. 16407. The from him. and revision process, we have a gen- But that’s not the true beginning. First, we introduce “LGBT Voices” Erie Reader is distributed at over 250 high If you’re a lover of movies -- like erally good idea of how a story will Before becoming an example of with Rich McCarty -- a column we foot-traffic locations in Pennsylvania from most of us here at the Reader -- or unfold. But sometimes what devel- success, Mishol went through hell. hope helps spread the message of North East to Girard to Edinboro. The Erie don’t really care much about them -- ops catches even us by surprise. It’s easy for someone to claim they’ve equality for which we all strive. And Reader is also available by mail subscription; like contributing editor Cory Vail- This happened with the You been to hell and back -- think of the second, we offer you something that one year (26 issues) for $49.99. Send check or lancourt, who sees five or less films Ought to Know if this issue written many songs and other pop-culture can be summed up in three words, money order payable to Flagship Multimedia, per year -- you should be aware of by Matthew Flowers. But let’s start references that just came to mind. four letters, a whole new column: Inc., to the address below. In addition to the cultural significance of this man, at the beginning. And it’s even easier for a writer to “The Reader Eater,” where our critic appearing in print, Erie Reader adds new and revel in the fact that he’s coming Not too long ago we got a tip from paint someone’s story a little darker will be weighing in on Erie’s local content daily at www.ErieReader.com as well social media sites. All rights reserved. here, to our own back yard, to pro- an esteemed local businesswoman than it truly is for dramatic effect. eats and all they have to offer, start- All content © Flagship Multimedia, Inc, 32 W. voke and enlighten. that we should get in touch with But Flowers doesn’t do that. In- ing with The Summer House Cafe. Eighth St., Suite 500, Erie, Pa, 16501. No part And while it’s typical to see a Mary Graziano, director of Dress stead, he sat with a woman who told Food. Film. Culture. Entertain- of this publication may be reproduced without writer plot out questions days -- if for Success Erie, to hear about the him what it was like to be addicted ment. Politics. Music. Tech. All here permission. Direct inquiries to 814.314.9364 not weeks -- in advance to prepare big news she had just received earlier to drugs, get caught selling drugs, be for your reading pleasure, so sit back or [email protected]. for such an interview with such a that day. This would be a great story confined to “the hole” in prison, and and enjoy this issue. And meet us celebrity with quick wit, Cory -- idea we were told. Connections were worse. down in Edinboro April 4. March 20, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 3 UPFRONT News Let's See What Madam Ruby Sees of the By: Cory Vaillancourt Weird emember the part in the 1985 Tim Austin, Andre Horton, By: Chuck Shepherd Burton flick “Pee Wee’s Big Adven- David Pamula, and Renee ture” when he goes to visit the psychic Vendetti, as well as Re- and she reveals to him the purported publican Ned Smith, who location of his stolen bicycle by gazing into her apparently didn’t get the Doping on Ice Rcrystal ball? Madam Ruby was her name, and I memo titled, “Erie Coun- eaders of the ice-fishing community, aiming went to visit her last week. ty Council’s 2nd District for official Olympics recognition as a sport, You see, the 2013 municipal primaries are upon went 75 percent to 25 Lhave begun the process by asking the World An- us again, and some folks have made what I think percent for President ti-Doping Agency to randomly test its "athletes" are some truly delusional decisions, so I asked in 2012 for performance-enhancing drugs, according to a Madam Ruby to cut through the cloudy clut- and also the Alamo does February New York Times report. However, said ter and favor me with her profound insights on not have a basement.” the chairman of the U.S. Freshwater Fishing the races – and racers. That’s right, out of all the What Madam Ruby sees: Association, "We do not test for beer," because, things I could have asked her about – the mean- Giles will be told by vot- he added, "Everyone would fail." Ice-fishing is a ing of life, the future of humanity, next week’s ers to hit the showers. lonely, frigid endeavor rarely employing strength winning lottery numbers – I asked about local Again. but mostly requiring guile and strategy, as com- elections. I’m trusting her to accurately convey Erie Mayor: Apparent- petitors who discover advantageous spots in the the results of those local elections – despite the ly Joe Sinnott has done lake must surreptitiously upload the hauls lest fact that she sent Pee Wee Herman on a fool’s such a good job of may- competitors rush over to drill their own holes. errand – because I gave her all the money I had oring that not one single Daniel Schwen Urine tests have also been run in recent years on Democrat or Republican competitors in darts, miniature golf, chess and filed to run against him; Everyone knows the Alamo has no basement, right? tug-of-war, and in 2011, one chess player, two he’ll serve his third term minigolfers and one tugger tested positive. [New Out of all the things beginning in 2014. I’m not really sure what this the seat, Ebert Beeman, now occupies a jail cell. York Times, 2-24-2013] means; either he’s loved, feared, or such a politi- Beeman – an anti-government Republican loon I could have asked her cal wallflower that people are willing to put up – disgraced himself, his party, the county, and the Cultural Diversity with four more years of really crappy Celebrate council when he was sent to jail for being a prick frequent sight on Soweto, South Africa, about – the meaning of Erie headliners chosen by his out-of-touch crap who refused to pay his taxes, among other things; streets recently is crowds of 12-to-15-year- rock-loving minions. But let’s be real here – if the furthermore, he then had the hubris to oppose oldA boys known as "izikhotane" ("boasters") who life, the future of humanity, quality of the entertainment at a free city festival his removal from the County Council. Eventu- hang out in their designer jeans, "shimmering next week’s winning is the worst thing one can say about Sinnott’s ally, Edward DiMattio, Jr. was appointed to the silk shirts, bright pink and blue shoes, and white- tenure, he’s doing a damn fine job; he’s held the seat to finish out Beeman’s term; he’s running for straw, narrow-brimmed fedoras," according to a lottery numbers – I asked line on taxes and confidently piloted what was re-election and will be opposed by fellow Repub- February BBC News dispatch. Flashing wads of once a rusty old push-bike but is now a…well, lican Trish Shoulders. cash begged from beleaguered parents, hundreds about local elections. it’s still a rusty old push-bike – but at least it’s got What Madam Ruby sees: Ebert Beeman, still in may amass, playing loud music and sometimes some air in the tires, which would explain why jail, in the basement of the Alamo. even trashing their fancy clothes as if to feign an he’s coasting. Free-for-all: The Erie City Council race is so indifference to wealth. Since many izikhotanes' What Madam Ruby sees: Sinnott popping a crowded it looks like the San Antonio Grey- families are working-class survivors of apartheid, in my wallet. Like Pee Wee did. wheelie! hound station; seats occupied by Dave Brennan, they are mostly ashamed of their kids' behavior. Whitey Power: Two-term incumbent County The two Barrys: Kathy Dahlkemper’s decision John Evans, Curtis Jones, Jr., and Jim Winarski "This isn't what we struggled for," lamented one Councilman Ronald “Whitey” Cleaver is seek- to challenge incumbent – and fellow Democrat – are up for re-election this year. All four men are parent. But, protested a peer-pressured boaster, ing his third term representing the 4th District; Barry Grossman for Erie County Executive has seeking to retain their seats and all four men – "(Y)ou must dress like this, even if you live in a he’s opposed by fellow Democrat Jay Breneman. raised ever since we broke the story way especially Brennan and Jones, Jr. – make a strong shack." [BBC News, 2-1-2013] Breneman has youth, talent, and intelligence on back on Feb. 25; during her formal announce- case. Evans – the only Republican – appears to his side; he also has a snowball’s chance in hell of ment, she invoked the name of Barry Obama so be the weakest because he was appointed and not ndia's annual "Rural Olympics" might be the winning this race. Unfortunately, elections aren’t many times that I’m wondering if this race will elected, however being the only Republican can- cultural equivalent of several Southern U.S. always won by the candidate who is best quali- actually be Barry vs. Barry. I’m also wondering didate in the race may earn him enough votes to I"Redneck Olympics" but taken somewhat more fied – they are won by people who do the best who in Dahlkemper’s camp thinks that’s wise, return. Challenging them in this melee are Julia seriously, in that this year, corporate sponsorships job of campaigning, and considering Cleaver’s because in this county, at this time, Grossman Calipol, Selena King, and current City Controller (Nokia and Suzuki) helped fund the equivalent incumbency, Breneman’s going to have a hard defeats Obama. Despite having a first term Casimir Kwitowski. of about $66,000 in prize money for such events time changing the minds of people who already pockmarked with potholes (like the community What Madam Ruby sees: Brennan, Jones, Evans, as competitive pulling using only one's ears or willingly vote for someone named “Whitey.” But college and the Hassam debate), Grossman has and someone with a “K” sound in their last name. teeth. "We do this for money, trophies, fame and I do hope Breneman eventually finds his bike. – much like Sinnott – kept taxes in line with rea- Madam Ruby has spoken; now, off! Off, you respect," one ear-puller told The Wall Street What Madam Ruby sees: Cleaver in a white- sonable expectations and done a fine, if not damn politicians on your strange and fantastic adven- Journal in February. This year, in the four-day wash. fine, job. But unlike Sinnott, Grossman’s success ture! For some of you will indeed be pointed at event in Punjab state, the 50,000 spectators Go, Joe: Democrat Joe Giles has served on Erie apparently has not been enough to ward off a by snickering children in the courtyard of the could watch a teeth-lifter pull a 110-pound sack County Council for more than 60 years [citation pack of Republican challengers, including Tom Alamo, but some of you will, after all, find your upward for about eight seconds and an ear-puller needed]; aside from taking steamy private after- Loftus, Don Tucci, and Thomas McGahen – all proverbial bike and end up with a movie being ease a car about 15 feet. hours showers in the women’s locker room of of whom will have to hold their questions about made about your life starring James Brolin and the Erie County Sheriff's office and engaging in the Alamo’s basement until the end of the tour. Morgan Fairchild. eird Japan: (1) A generous local business- shady middle-of-the-night cruising with a con- What Madam Ruby sees: Grossman squeaks man recently graced the city of Okuizu- victed vandal less than one-third his age, I can’t through the primary and general elections. Cory Vaillancourt is a brilliant writer/complete moW with funding for replicas of two Renaissance recall anything he’s done in those 60 years that Ed and Shoulders: Nobody would really care hack and can be complimented/heckled at cVail- statues ("Venus de Milo" and Michelangelo's should allow him to keep his job. Several people about the County Council’s 6th District race if [email protected]. Find him on Twitter @ "David") for a public park. Agence France-Pres- agree with me on this – namely Democrats Lisa not for the fact that the previous occupant of VLNCRT. se reported in February that many residents, re- 4 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com March 20, 2013 ceiving little advance warning, expressed shock at the unveiling of "David" and demanded that he at least be given underpants. (2) Fax machines, al- Street Corner most obsolete in the U.S., are still central to many tech-savvy Japanese families and companies (who bought 1.7 million units last year alone), reported in February. Families prefer Soapbox faxes' superiority to e-mail for warmly expressing Japan's complex written language, and bureau- crats favor faxes' preserving the imperative of By: Jay Stevens paper flow.

Latest Religious Messages he 14 guests at a jewelry party in Lake City, Fla., were initially incredulous that home- But then it's a long way off until Pennsylvania's The best-known name in the possible Demo- invaderT Derek Lee, 24, meant to rob them, but Corbett’s Poll gubernatorial election in November 2014. That cratic field is Joe Sestak, who's famous for losing when they saw that he was serious (by putting his gives Gov. Corbett time to salvage his reputation to Pat Toomey in the 2010 Senate race. gun to the head of one woman), the hostess went and woo voters. Numbers this far out from the Not only do Democrats need to earn name into action. "In the name of Jesus," she shouted, ave you seen Gov. Tom Corbett's election rarely match the numbers on Election recognition in order to win, they likely have to "get out of my house now!" Then the guests poll numbers? Day, especially before months of campaigning. endure a lengthy, bitter, and expensive primary to chanted in unison, "Jesus! Jesus! Jesus!" over and In January, Public Policy Poll- On the other hand, these are really troubling earn the right to challenge the sitting governor. over. Lee, frightened or bewildered, sprinted out ing (PPP) found that 38 percent of numbers for Corbett. It is difficult to recover It's a long way to November 2014, and there the door empty-handed and was later arrested. Pennsylvanians approved of his job performance. from disapproval numbers above 50 percent. are innumerable hurdles for the Democrats to HA whopping 52 percent disapproved. The rest That means he has to win over voters whoac- cross to unseat Corbett. But the biggest weapon he president of the National Black Church were undecided. tively dislike the work he's done in order to win the Democrats have in the race may be Corbett Initiative told the Associated Press in Janu- And while the January poll showed him lead- re-election. It's possible, but might mean a major himself. Relentlessly ideological, Corbett has aryT that its pastors are generally free to ordain ing every match-up against potential Democratic policy change in Harrisburg. trashed the public school system, rigged the tax new pastors as they wish, and that consequently contenders, he never exceeded 42 percent against Of course, the numbers will look different once and regulatory system to favor big business, and Bishop Wayne Jackson of did nothing any of them – including Democrats like Rob there's a clear opponent in the race. Right now, engaged in privatization schemes by trying to sell wrong in his ordination ceremony (which was McCord or John Hanger, who topped 70 percent the Democratic names rumored to be in the race off the state lottery – all done with the flair of a surreptitiously video-recorded and uploaded to in “not sure” in the favorability poll. are largely unfamiliar to voters state-wide. There's school-yard bully. YouTube), even though it consisted of Jackson The March PPP numbers were worse. In the Ed Pawlowski, mayor of Allentown. Congress- He's his own worst enemy, but doesn't seem to in robes, praying while lying on top of the new later poll, only 33 percent approved of the gov- woman Allison Schwartz. Mike Stack, a state care. bishops, who were also praying. (The AP noted ernor's work, and 58 percent disapproved. And senator. Former Revenue Secretary Tom Wolf. that Bishop Jackson had been the target of that's- in this poll, he peaks at 34 percent in one-on-one Businessman Tom Knox. The State Treasurer, Jay Stevens can be contacted at Jay@ErieReader. so-gay YouTube comments.) Rob McCord. The former Department of Envi- com, and you can follow him on Twitter @Snevets_ ronmental Affairs Secretary, John Hanger. Yaj. et Another Fatwa: Saudi cleric Sheikh Abdullah Daoud, in an interview in Febru- aryY on al-Majd TV, decreed that female babies Not only do should wear full-face veils (burkas) to help shield them from sexual advances. (According to a Democrats need former judge at the Saudi Board of Grievances, Saudi authorities have issued standards for fat- was, thus urging people to ignore "unregulated" to earn name ones such as Skeikh Daoud's.) recognition in order Her happiness n January, Lhokseumawe City, Indonesia, drafted new ordinances, including one that Iprohibits women from riding motorcycles with to win, they likely their legs straddling male drivers, since that is in the bag. would tend to "provoke" them. A proponent said have to endure a the ban "honor(ed)" women "because they are delicate creatures." Immediately, some authori- lengthy, bitter, and ties denounced the legislation, pointing out that riding "side saddle" is much more dangerous in cases of sudden swerves and collisions. As of expensive primary press time, the mayor had not decided whether to implement the ordinance. to earn the right Questionable Judgments n February, an off-duty Tampa police officer to challenge the and an off-duty sheriff's detective from nearby IHernando County were awarded the sheriff's sitting governor. the shops at the colony office's highest honor, the Medal of Valor, for exemplary bravery in an October incident in matchups against Democrats, and loses all of 2602 west 8th street which a 42-year-old naked woman was shot to them – including the match-ups against largely (814) 833-5311 death by the officers. The woman was holding unknown candidates. a gun and had made threats, and a 5-year-old A recent Quinnipiac poll is better for Corbett, boy was inside a truck that she wanted to steal. but not by much: only 35 percent of Pennsylvania www.lescrago.com However, even though a neighbor had simply voters thought that he deserved to be reelected.. wrestled the woman down earlier, the officers still But...what does this mean? thought their only move was to shoot to kill. Said For starters, it looks like Pennsylvanians would the woman's brother, "They shot a mentally dis- rather vote for some candidate pulled off the turbed, naked woman. Is that valor?" street than for Gov. Corbett. March 20, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 5 valuable time with the (Classroom) Education TECH WATCH the fact that if left unattended for six The Way I See It routine of shaking hands is (not always) Key hours or more, a Tamagotchi would and kissing babies. The Return of the Digi-Pet die. This posed a problem because the Sinnott Uncontested, New Deputy Warden We also have a mayor his past week County Ex- average school day is, well, longer than that can’t run again, no ecutive Barry Grossman hired By: Brennan Donnelly, Epic WebStudios six hours – meaning,if a student was By: Rebecca Styn matter how much he Kevin Sutter to take over as unable to get to their digi-pet at lunch, may want to stay in of- deputyT warden of the Erie County recess, study hall, etc., they would have fice. I’m not rushing Sin- Prison. He is expected to take over for ave you been coping with to start over the next day after having Sinnott Uncontested nott out, but I am a huge proponent of Prison Warden James Veshecco when an emotional void ever lost their friend. term limits – for better or worse – and he retires later this year. since your Tamagotchi Clearly these original tenders to the love democracy. our city seems to agree with me on Under county hiring rules, this ap- died in 1999? Tamagotchi alien race did not want to At times I have complained this. pointment requires a four-year college Good news: the ever-popular digi- abandon their pets, such negligence about how our democracy doesn’t I understand at times, term limits degree. Hpet is back – in the form of an Android resulting in an inability to explore our Ialways operate justly, but on occasion, can force talented and popular lead- Sutter doesn’t have one. app! And iOS users, fear not – the planet and an untimely death. So they I find that silver lining in the way ers out of office, only to be replaced Because of this, a personnel code iPhone app is currently under devel- did what any good-hearted person some of our government functions, by inexperienced politicians. However, waiver – which would waive the opment, and you too will soon have would do: they would oftentimes try and that’s when I take a small moment overall, term limits drive out career county hiring requirement that deputy the opportunity to care for your very to secretly attend to them during class to rejoice and reclaim my love for our politicians, help to increase competi- prison wardens hold at least a four- own digital pocket pet. time. But this caused disruption, and system. tion, encourage citizens to begin vot- year college degree – was introduced For those who read the paragraph eventually led to many schools ban- This most recent small moment falls ing on principle – not person, help to county council to serve as a caveat above and are clueless as to what I am ning the devices completely. in accordance with the fact that this voters hear about new and fresh ideas, to hire Sutton. However, it turns out referring, let me bring you up to speed Creators, er, inventors of the Tama- year Erie Mayor Joseph Sinnott will encourage new challengers to step up, the waiver was not needed. Therefore, on the excellence that is a Tamagotchi. gotchi responded by producing later run unopposed. create greater voter participation in Sutter is expected to start Monday, The year was 1996 and Akihiro Yo- versions of the device with a “pause” What prompts me to have this mo- elections, and downgrade seniority in March 18, no degree required. koi of WiZ and Aki Maita of Bandai feature, allowing owners to temporar- ment is two-fold: my own perspective favor of meritocracy. I am an ardent proponent of con- were hard at work in Japan getting ily suspend the tending to of their pet on the subject, and seeing the United In short, term limits do a lot. tinuing education. Personally, I am ready to release one of the biggest before resuming their caregiving when States’ largest grass-roots efforts work- To put this in perspective, at the state still furthering my own education. 1990s crazes – a handheld digital pet. they got home, with no harm done to ing in accordance with the system – level, re-election rates are upwards of But sometimes I think education The Tamagotchi was an egg-shaped their beloved digi-creature; thus the term limits. 90 percent in the House of Repre- can be more fruitful when it’s not in computer keychain with an interface tending to the alien race continued for Recently, the top headline on the sentatives office – a body that boasts a classroom setting and that formal- of three buttons that served a variety years to come. front page of Erie’s daily paper read, no term limits. I cannot imagine 90 ized training is not always relevant or of purposes to care for the digital In fact, egg-shaped models are still “Sinnott Gets Free Ride.” percent of those incumbents deserve necessary to have a good career. Of- pet growing and thriving inside the in production today, but with the in- Yes, this is true. Lucky for him, he to still be in office. The issues we have tentimes in life, direct, hands-on ex- tiny plastic microcomputer. The early creased shift to smart phones, users will go unchallenged. For some of you, today – those that splash across the periences make a greater educational models featured a black and white can ditch the keychain version for this may come as a disappointment, television screen and newspapers daily impact for us. pixelated screen and a internal speaker the app, allowing for all the same fun that no one was willing to step up and – tell me this in a nutshell. I think most of us can attest to the to produce beeping, serving for both without the added bulk in pocket con- contest him – that would truly be de- I know we all have our own opinions fact that many of our undergraduate communication and alerts. tent. mocracy in action. – and I welcome yours – however, I educations have had at times little Still confused? Here’s more back Tamagotchi L.i.f.e – which stands But we can look at this two ways: we believe our mayor will take advantage impact on where we are today [read: story: A Tamagotchi is a small alien for “Love Is Fun Everywhere” – is can be disappointed in the fact that of this time in a way he may have not my bachelor’s degree was in music]. species that was deposited on Earth as the name of the newly released An- there’s no real challenger – nobody to been afforded before. I look forward to And many of us don’t always have the an egg to see what life was like here droid app and is available at the low, fight the good fight, putting democra- seeing him in action during his final means to pursue a higher education on this planet. It was then up to the low price of: FREE! Or $0.99 if you cy into action – and talk about the fact term in office. He’s in one of the most [read: the continual fight for a local keychain owner to raise the egg into would like to forego ads. The emulator that there will be no new face in that ideal places an elected official can be community college], so, I applaud an adult creature. The alien would de- perfectly resembles the layout of the office. Or, we can shift our perspective. – working for the city and our com- Grossman for taking all things into velop differently through its growth original (visible plastic housing and We now have a mayor that doesn’t munities, without operating under account and not completely dismiss- stages depending on how the user all), with an optional interface avail- have to campaign, that has no need to the immense weight of running for ing Sutter based on his lack of college cared for it. able to view full-screen. be taking personal donations from you re-election. credentialing. If well taken care of, the tiny com- The app has a rating at 3.7/5.0 stars and utilizing your hard-earned money Four years from now (well, prob- After all, I know many brilliant peo- puterized alien would be happy, based on nearly 2,700 reviews, thus far. for him to conduct his politicking. We ably three), fresh faces can step up ple who never went to college. healthy, and require little care once it The Google Play store reports that the also have a mayor that can focus totally and throw their political hats into the And most are making more money reaches adulthood. If not, well, a mis- app has been installed between five- on the efforts of the “greater good” and mayoral ring. Hopefully, a couple of than I will ever see in my lifetime. chievous, unhealthy, attention-seeking hundred thousand and a million times. put all his time and energy helping you will participate – especially since alien would begin wreaking havoc. Demographic analytics show that this our city grow and prosper – which he’s there will be no incumbent that will Love? Hate? Agree? Disagree? I want to hear If you recall, the original device blast-from-the-past app has been a been doing to a degree all along– but have an automatic advantage, making from you. Email me at rStyn@ErieReader. caused controversy in many elemen- huge hit among twenty-somethings. this time he can do it without losing it a fair fight from the start. com, and follow me on Twitter @rStyn. tary, middle, and high schools due to Strangely, I personally don’t recall ever owning a Tamagotchi, which is making me wonder if I was some JUST TOYIN’ WITCHA By: B. Toy kind of an outcast and a loser in the late 1990s, deemed unfit to tend to the futuristic race of alien visitors. I also admit that I have not had the oppor- tunity to download this app to redeem my lacking childhood because I am an iOS user. Though recalling memories of the original gadget and speaking with others my age brought me a sense of pleasure to recall memories of when caring for a digi-pet was the most of a child’s worries, and potentially the most of a twenty-something’s worries once again.

Brennan Donnelly can be contacted at [email protected]. 6 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com March 20, 2013 LGBT Voices Understanding and Embracing the Difficulties that Unite Us All

By: Rich McCarty One part of that has to do with recognizing our given sexual orientations or gender identities. For LGBT people, self-identity and self-respect are rie is home to many histories, diverse uniquely forged. In particular, our sense of self people groups, destination points, and is distinctively shaped by having an innate af- unique organizations. Of the many fectional and sexual attraction to members of the people that make our north-coast city same sex — or because one’s gender identity does a place of diversity and interest is the lesbian, not conform to one's physical sex. Egay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) community. These basic differences help us to see the world In many recognizable ways, we who belong to in ways that straight folk might not. We have the LGBT community are just like our straight/ traditions, celebrations, and self-concepts that heterosexual neigh- reflect our history bors. Life's joys of not always being and hopes are ours, In all ways, then, LGBT accepted, but which inasmuch as life's honor the ways that common frustra- issues are human issues – and we have learned to tions and difficul- live without fear

ties are shared as as human issues they are and to love one an- Ludovic Burton well. Whether that other. The rainbow flag, or gay pride flag, has been used since the means the simple Erie issues. The inauguration Without ques- fun of enjoying lo- of this “LGBT Voices” tion, in a world 1970s to represent the diversity of the LGBT community. cal Erie events, like that largely antici- Eight Great Tues- column will provide a space pates people to be LGBT people, but to all human beings. The goal? To learn about our similarities, our days, cheering on heterosexual, or In all ways, then, LGBT issues are human is- differences, and how understanding these will the Erie SeaWolves, where LGBT and straight gender conforming, sues – and as human issues they are Erie issues. help all of us to cultivate respect for our Erie or enjoying our people alike can find out just we LGBT people The inauguration of this “LGBT Voices” column neighbors, not in spite of our sexual orientations favorite pub or res- must cultivate a will provide a space where LGBT and straight or gender identities, but because of them. taurant, we LGBT some of the ways in which well-tested form people alike can find out just some of the ways “LGBT Voices” will be a space, then, where we people are living of confidence and in which LGBT-life is Erie-life (and Erie-life is can discover that in Erie – straight and LGBT – and loving life in LGBT-life is Erie-life (and love. Sometimes we LGBT-life). But we'll also look at other ways in people are already present in one another’s lives: ways that resonate refer to this as "gay which LGBT-life faces unique challenges and in our schools, our neighborhoods, our commu- with a majority of Erie-life is LGBT-life). pride." This pride offers unique opportunities for happiness. nities of faith, and side-by-side in our many Erie people here in Erie. – this deeper love We'll explore definitions of what it means to be celebrations. To that end, this column will be a So too, we LGBT people face life's common – allows us to name our innate differences and "L, G, B, or T" (as well as other sexual and gender place where LGBT and straight people might inconveniences: like digging our cars out from to do so even though we know that sometimes identities not represented by those four letters). better appreciate that differences of sexual and Erie's infamous snow storms, or crunching num- people will associate our "coming out" as an ad- We'll also explore what's happening in Erie gender identity are a contribution to Erie’s di- bers to pay monthly bills. To that end, while some mission of sickness, perversion, or an immoral LGBT life that might be of interest to any num- versities—not a detraction from our life together, may think of gay or lesbian people as fearsomely "choice." ber of people (straight or LGBT). We'll tackle but a gift. (or fabulously) “queer,” much of LGBT life is Having to anticipate that people may not ac- some of the "issues" that the LGBT community rather ordinary, because at the end of the day we cept us because we are LGBT can be daunting. faces (like legal rights, religious concerns, or mat- Rich McCarty holds a Ph.D. in Religious Studies, share a common status as human beings. But we live with the hope of full-equality (and ters of public accommodation). We'll also take specializing in sexual ethics. McCarty works in At the same time, LGBT folk are not simply acceptance!) because we know first-hand why a look at the incredible history of the LGBT Erie as a professor, serves the community as an or- "the same as everyone else." There are differences. friendship, love, individual-liberty, meaningful community in Erie, as well as the many people dained minister, and proudly identifies as a member But those differences are a contribution to hu- work, a place to call home, social justice, and the and organizations that embody the different seg- of the LGBT community. You can contact him at man diversity. network of family are each invaluable, not just to ments of the LGBT community as it exists now. [email protected].

March 20, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 7 and “Eggs Florentine” start to make their The Reader Eater presence known, dis- Our Mystery Food Critic Pays a Visit to The Summer House Cafe tinguishing Summer House from the crowd typically visit this establishment for a variety of of greasy spoons. ometimes the best restaurant experiences breakfast delights. On a late Sunday morning – At this point, I’m can be found in seemingly staple and much like the one upon which my guests and I going to pause and familiar environments. While I consider set off in search of some quality diner-breakfast recommend a dish myself to be a bit of a foodie in the sense eats – one can expect to find the place packed for which I frequently that I love flavor, quality, and anything new to and the waitresses shifting about in expected return to The Sum- Staste, I’ve also always been a sucker for diners, form and chatty and hungry mouths of no par- mer House. If anyone especially when I have a craving for breakfast ticular demographic comfortably occupying all of out there likes sau- food anytime after 9 a.m. Diners, while all a little the art-filled nooks and crannies of this uniquely sage gravy, then the different in appearance, manage to still have that bohemian diner. “Heavenly Biscuits” same menu, that same half-burnt coffee, and Now, like I said, I’m a sucker for diners because are for you. This dish those same sticky placemats. of a few familiar staples that even from which the – consisting of flakey, Summer House is not set apart. One such staple slightly sweet biscuits is the bottomless cup of diner coffee that’s not covered in a rich I foolishly order a double- particularly strong, nor flavorful, but always there homemade creamy with a waitress successful at keeping it warmed sausage gravy – sets stack of the richest, up. The Summer House Another diner quality that The Summer House apart from most other creamiest pancakes I’ve possesses is a fast and predictable pace. Some- diners I know. times it can be a little too fast for how relaxed But back to our ever had in a diner, along the rest of the restaurant setting is. However, as Sunday morning with a side of bacon. Who it becomes evident that my table is in the exact breakfast. My table

opposite of a rush, our waitress eventually, and starts out with the The Reader Eater doesn’t like a little salty graciously, adapts to our pace. “Breakfast Breads So what’s not so familiar about this dining Basket,” containing Buttermilk pancakes from the Summerhouse with their sweet after all? experience? Looking at the menu, one will find an assortment of fresh Cafe: rich, creamy, and smooth. multiple omelet options with numerous fillings, homemade biscuits “2 eggs and meat” combos, as well as classically and muffins. While the biscuits were deliciously To put it as politely as possible, many diner All except the Summer House Café. sweet breakfast treats, such as waffles and French fresh – despite the butter having been served pancakes often tend to be a bit “gritty,” but this While The Summer House Café, like many toast, which all seem pretty standard and ex- frozen – I would not recommend ordering this stack is thick, golden-brown, and not only grit- other diners, also offers a lunch menu, and a pected. But then after further exploration, dishes starter unless you’re simply meeting a friend for free, but creamy and smooth in each bite. Two dinner menu Thursdays through Saturdays, I like “Eggs ala Dante,” “Grilled Roma Tomatoes,” coffee and need a little something to pick at while pancakes are too much this particular morning, you chat. After all, who wants to fill up on bread – but delicious all the same. no matter how good – before a meal? While the While the rest of my table is satisfied with their rest of my table proceeded to order classic eggs classically egg-y diner dishes, particularly the and omelets, I went for another menu item that fresh veggie fillings in the omelets, it’s evident I specifically seek out from The Summer House: that the Summer House’s strengths can be found sour cream pancakes. in the dishes that make it unique. Sour cream It’s considered a win for a restaurant when pancakes, and biscuits with sausage gravy are there is a particular dish for which customers re- total spotlight stealers that manage to break the turn because they just can’t get it anywhere else. diner menu mold. For me, that can be found in Summer House’s While a cup of coffee along with two eggs, pancake. meat, and potatoes always sounds appealing, a I foolishly order a double-stack of the richest, patron of this diner will walk away with a more creamiest pancakes I’ve ever had in a diner, along memorable meal if he or she opts for something with a side of bacon. Who doesn’t like a little salty more robust than a simple plate of eggs from this with their sweet after all? Summer House offers menu – something that he or she may just start a long list of toppings that can be added to your coming back for again and again. food is wholesome again stack for an upcharge, but to be honest, they are perfect with the powdered sugar and the slice of You can contact The Reader Eater at ReaderEater@ Frankie & May is home to Erie’s favorite butcher: Tom Hill. strawberry with which they already come. ErieReader.com. We’re serving only the freshest, all-natural, premium hand-selected meats available. At Frankie & May, we believe that quality ingredients are the foundation of every great meal. From super-fresh fish to locally grown farm produce — you’ll find it here for a fair price.

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

Locaed under the clock in the Peninsula Plaza.

good for you, good for your community

peninsula plaza :: 1101 peninsula drive :: erie, pa 16505 :: ph. 814.836.0070 :: frankieandmay.com

8 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com March 20, 2013 Legendary Filmmaker Brings "This Filthy World" to Edinboro

John Waters talks the Erie Canal, fax machines, anger, death, hitchhiking, Kardashians, and North Korea

By: Cory Vaillancourt

o the guy who doesn’t watch more than five movies a year just got to interview one of the most impor- tant filmmakers of our time. Sure, I’d never actually seen any of his films – but that doesn’t mean I don’t understand the cultural signif- icance of -born filmmaker, actor, artist, comedian, journalist, and writer John Waters, whose body of work spans a full half-century. It just means I had to find a qualified authority on Shis films before I interviewed him. “John Waters and the – the reg- ulars he cast in his films in the ‘70s and ‘80s – just went out there and made the crazy, campy films

"When you’re young, you can be an alcoholic, you can be a junkie, and you’re still sexy, because you’re angry and

crazy. But at 66 – if you haven’t Contributed Photo already figured it out by then – it isn’t angry, it isn’t sexy. It’s kind of sad. Anger, when Pictured above: John Waters, not dead. you’re young, is sexy. When

you’re old it’s bitterness. And are an inspiration to me; filmmakers like John to wing it. last year, so the Edinboro Film Series set up the bitterness is never, ever sexy." Waters paved the way for independent filmmak- On the other hand, if we talked of the Erie Ca- funding and booking. The EFS gets a budget ing today.” nal, fax machines, anger, assholes, death, homo- from the Student Government at Edinboro Uni- Now I don’t know what any of that means, but and bi-sexuality, hitchhiking, the Kardashians, versity which helps a lot, but it came up short for luckily for me, John Waters is not just a “film- and North Korea, that would be just fine too. Af- a guest of this caliber.” they wanted to make,” said John C. Lyons, my maker.” In addition to being best-known for ter all, John Waters’ commentary on such diverse That’s right, this movie isn’t one long “rolling qualified authority on John Waters’ films for the directing more than 15 films since the 1960s subject matter is the raison-de-etre of “This Filthy up the sleeves” montage set to a peppy Loverboy purposes of this story. Lyons’ credentials include including “,” “,” “Ro- World,” his touring performance that saunters in track before ending in a pasture of rainbow glitter serving as the executive director of the Film So- man Candles,” and, of course, “,” to Edinboro University of Pennsylvania April 4. with happy puppies all licking each other with ciety of Northwestern Pennsylvania, the founder Waters is really more of a phenomenon; as a pio- Although Waters’ appearance in the area was their cute little puppy tongues. This story – like of the Edinboro Film Series, and the curator of neer in transgressive cult film – which, by defini- unexpected by some, it happens to be the result most – does indeed feature some heartbreak and the Erie Reader-sponsored FILM at the Erie tion is meant to poke fun at cultural mores by of years of work by a disparate group of heroes disappointment, and perhaps even some crip- Art Museum. Oh yeah – he’s also a filmmaker, both shocking and amusing – he is often looked and heroines who banded together against all pling self-doubt in that moment when all looks known for his 99-minute, locally-shot, soon-to- to for commentary on cultural issues outside the odds to accomplish their dreams and overcome lost and candied-bacon dreams seem scattered be-released , “There Are No realm of both film and art in general. obstacles while learning about teamwork, persis- upon the cruel, northwestern Pennsylvania winds. Goodbyes.” That being said, I decided to approach the time tence, dedication, and themselves in the process. “Came up short” is a nice way of saying “only “His influences are part highbrow – Fassbinder, I’d been given with him on the phone as more of Almost sounds like a movie, doesn’t it? had half the money.” Fellini, Bergman – and part sleazy exploitation a conversation than an interrogation. We’d just “A couple years ago, the FSNWPA Founder, “We were able to supply some of the funding films, which is obviously a unique combination,” have a chat, this brilliant man and I, and if we Greg Ropp, and I had a conversation about how for the event, but we knew we would need sup- said Lyons, of Waters. “I love filmmakers who talked about movies, my qualified authority on cool it would be to bring him here,” Lyons said. port,” said Eric Fink, president of the Edinboro work independently and are able to find success John Waters’ films for the purposes of this story “Coincidentally, some of my Edinboro Film Se- Film Society. while maintaining their voice in their films. They John C. Lyons had given me enough information ries student board members dropped his name So the EFS put together a proposal to the EUP March 20, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 9 Student Government Association for more fund- about me, or write an obituary, I could have writ- ing; after two presentations and a lot of lobbying, ten it much funnier. I didn’t think it was that they got what they wanted. clever, to be honest; I think somebody wanted to Sort of. make a name for themselves and I guess they did. “The SGA gave us close to what we asked for – But it is kind of a pain, you know. I don’t want which was great – but there was still a shortfall,” to give it more credit than it deserves, really, or Lyons said. “However, the university itself came encourage others to do it, but now I can say well, through for us to make up the difference. The I’ve been dead, too [laughs]. person who helped us with this final shortfall has CV: It’s weird, these things seem to pop up with asked to remain anonymous.” little or no encouragement; it’s like the prank du So, in that very moment of despondence and jour of the Internet age. I suppose it took place defeat, a shadowy figure of unknown identity back in the fax machine days too… emerged to save the day! That’s how movies are JW: Right. supposed to work, right? CV: But nowadays… I don’t know, really. But after learning about JW: Nowadays, it’s worldwide in minutes. The the effort it took to bring him to the area, I was thing is, from what I saw online – and I don’t even more inspired to make sure that the guy know the person who did it, I’ll never look at who doesn’t watch more than five movies a year his website again, I don’t really care, I don’t hold talked with John Waters the person, not just John it against him – but people mostly wrote really Waters the filmmaker, actor, artist, comedian, mean things about it. I don’t think he’ll replace journalist, or writer; I hope that after reading this The Onion. Let’s put it that way. The Onion Q & A, you, too are lying in a pasture of rainbow would have done it much funnier, and I would glitter with happy puppies all licking each other have been happy. with their cute little puppy tongues. Let me tell you one thing though – you know Cory Vaillancourt: Hi, John; Cory Vaillan- who came to my defense? The first one was The court from the Erie Reader. Thanks for taking the National Enquirer. You can look it up on their time to talk to me today. website – that’s one of We’re all looking forward the first Googles I got to your visit to Edinboro was saying “The Na- University here in Penn- tional Enquirer says it sylvania. "There’s cool people isn’t true.” John Waters: I don’t CV: Strange days, think I’ve been there. wherever you go, even my friend. Strange And I don’t know why, days. I can’t explain it, but I’ve if it’s not a progressive JW: I’m happy that always wanted to meet The National Enquir- someone who says, “Hi, place – because of er stuck up for me. I’m from the Erie Canal CV: It’s funny, last area.” And I never have. the Internet. You year I had the pleasure CV: Well, they were of talking to Mr. Ice. the superhighways of the don’t have to leave You know, Vanilla? Lucky You! 1800s. People envisioned And the same thing them one day spanning home to be cool had just happened to the nation, so you could him; he said the most get anywhere with a anymore. That’s a mortifying thing was 500 donkey and a barge. But that, you know, you’re it just didn’t pan out. radical concept." in the public eye and JW: Well that just you have to bear the Business shows you how up-to- “slings and arrows,” date I am on geography. So that would be even but he was mostly worried about his mother more bizarre. If someone said that, especially if finding out. Cards it were a young person, then I would know that JW: Well, I did call my mother before she they are insane. heard. CV: Quite. CV: Yeah, I guess you gotta call mom first. AVAILABLE JW: That might end up in one of my scripts or JW: Actually I try to call her last, depending ONLY FOR a book someday. I don’t know why; sometimes on what the news is [laughing]! But she’s used to THE MONTH ONLY these obsessions come from nowhere, really. I just most anything now. OF MARCH like how the word sounds. CV: What’s the question reporters ask you that 2013 $29.50* CV: I’d have to agree – I wouldn’t call it allitera- you hate the most? tion, but it does roll off the tongue. Ear-e-kan- JW: I don’t hate any of ‘em, you know? The ob- ($54.00 value) AL. vious ones they’re going to ask me – “When did JW: It kind of does. I have many characters, and you meet [frequent collaborator] ?” and DETAILS: 2 Sided Full Color Glossy, 14 pt. Cover. I have to fight the urge to have every character’s “What’s the difference between good and bad 4-5 day turn around. *Some Graphics fees may apply. first and last name begin with the same letter. taste?” Those are probably the two top questions CV: I have to admit, I don’t know an awful lot like that. And they’re not bad questions – I just about your characters or your work, but according can’t think of a new answer, though. I’ve been do- 814-833-9020 to my research, I have to ask you a very serious ing interviews for almost 50 years; every project Go Ask Alice! 4523 W. Ridge Road question right now. that I do, like if I’m in concert, I do two to four JW: Am I dead? interviews…I hear those every day, almost, be- Presque Isle Erie, PA 16505 CV: What’s it like to be dead? cause I do shows all over the world. JW: You know, actually, the few hours when But I try to come up with different answers Printing Services www.presqueisleprinting.com people believed that, I was asleep. People in Eu- as much as I can, as a sort of test. And I think rope found out first, because they’re six hours that if you ever had to go to “celebrity school,” ahead, and then emailed people in America that you’d have to give 10 interviews where they ask woke up to that. If I were going to do a hoax the same questions and you have to give different 10 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com March 20, 2013 answers every time. did by myself last May. I tried to do that in Cannes, where you do a So, the movies still show; they’re available, whole day of press. Each table has fiver reporters, they’re in boxed sets, they even show them on and you have 10 minutes – they’re called ”round TV now. So I think the movies – whether you robins,” and they’re really ludicrous. But it’s a like them or hate them – I don’t think they look game you can play with your co-promoters, like dated. when you’re there with the star of your movie, CV: And throughout the years, as you’ve grown you say, “Okay, come on, let’s make sure that we in popularity, did you ever notice that affecting tell the truth and never give the same answer,” your creative process? which is hard to do. Like talking to you – I forget JW: Sure. The more money in the budget, the what I say to each person,[laughing] know what more people you gotta answer to – that’s com- I mean? And as soon as it’s over, it’s kind of like, mon sense. But there are great trade-offs, too. Do “I don’t remember what I said.” And sometimes I want to go back and make a movie with the that comes back to haunt me [laughing]. But not budget of my early movies? anymore; I’m media-wise enough – I hope. Absolutely not. I did that. You do that when The only time I’m nervous is when they don’t you’re young, when you have that anger, and that have a . And they say, “Oh, I can do energy, and that lunacy to make a movie. it,” and I say, “No you can’t, I talk really fast, and You’re going to have that raw anger, when paraphrasing is not quoting.“ you’re young, and certainly if I had the anger CV: And that’s why you’re being recorded right I had when I made “Pink Flamingos” today at now. 66 years old, I would be a big fool. I mean, who JW: Goooooooooood. wants to be around an angry old person? CV: I probably should have said that at the CV: But isn’t there still plenty to be angry outset. about? JW: [laughs] Here’s the thing – the only people JW: Oh, there’s plenty to be angry about! When that can do that are old people, because they you’re young, you can be an alcoholic, you can be know shorthand. No young people know short- a junkie, and you’re still sexy, because you’re an- hand. gry and crazy. But at 66 – if you haven’t already

CV: We have iPhones for that nowadays. figured it out by then – it isn’t angry, it isn’t sexy. Contributed Photo JW: It’s the same way when I do book sign- It’s kind of sad. Anger, when you’re young, is sexy. ings, you know? They buy the book and they want When you’re old it’s bitterness. And bitterness is Legendary filmmaker and cult icon John Waters comes to have a picture with me, I would say, “Get the never, ever sexy. to Edinboro University of Pennsylvania April 4. youngest person that works here!” No one over CV: What is sexy? 20 knows how to work every new cell phone… JW: A sense of humor and a refusal to be cat- JW: Women who pretend they are lesbians to have sex with men. Just because somebody was so it’s the same thing – only an old person knows egorized, sexually. I think people should be com- turn on straight men. Make men do it! It’s called gay once, doesn’t mean they’re gay forever. They shorthand, and only a young person knows how ing in [as opposed to coming out]. I think we a bro job, by the way. But men would never do it might be experimenting; many people are bisex- to operate every new phone. have enough gay people. We have enough. Come to turn on women. That is heresy. ual. I wish I was; Woody Allen said the best thing CV: That’s an interesting point – the engage- in. Can’t they audition now? I want to edit the CV: I’m a straight white guy. Do these “lesbi- about it is you double your chance for a date. ment of young people with media nowadays. It’s coming out process. “No no no! We don’t want ans” actually exist or are they just a figment of the CV: Absolutely. Why would you not want to so omnipresent that young people are able to be you - we want you. You, you’re not really gay, porn industry’s imagination? widen your scope of potential targets? exposed to your work far easier than, perhaps, a you’re just saying it to be trendy. Go back in.” JW: All straight men love the fantasy of two JW: But all the bisexuals I’ve ever met are mis- fax that was sent down the Erie Canal. Does that CV: So there should be a screening process? lesbians because they all think they’ll get in erable. If they’re with men they want to be with make it more fun for you? JW: Yes. A board. and give them what they really need. That is women, if they’re with women they want to be JW: I was in Brussels this past weekend; it was CV: A board. You have to appear before a the laaaaaaaaaast thing they really need, or they with men; they’re never happy [laughs]. I guess completely sold out – 1,500 people. I’d say the av- board. wouldn’t be lesbians! the grass looks greener… erage age was 25. That is the biggest thrill; that’s JW: And then you would get an official gay ID. CV: It’s really such a cruel fabrication. CV: The whole “king of trash” label and simi- the only thing that you can’t buy with advertising, CV: And what offenses would constitute JW: It’s the conceit of heterosexual males. But lar monikers, carrying them around with you for so yeah, it’s still fun for me! I like my job. My grounds for revocation thereof? believe me, there are heterosexual males that years…what still shocks you? [Cont. on 21] dreams came true years ago. This is all gravy; this is all beyond anything I ever hoped for when I was a kid. I’m thankful; I’ve been doing this for 50 years! And I’ve always said the reeeeeeeeal mark of success is not the money, or the power – it’s just never having to be around assholes. CV: Ahhhhhh. JW: And I’m not. Ever. CV: Well, I’m not there yet, but I’m working on it. JW: You’ve got to keep working on it and you will be. It’s a great goal to look forward to [laugh- ing]. CV: No more assholes. JW: Never to have to be around assholes. And that is power [laughing]. CV: And you’ve been doing that an awful long time. Do you feel like audiences have become so accustomed to your work that their expectations are much higher than they were in the ‘70s? JW: I don’t know – a lot of people weren’t even born when I was getting into it; some of them weren’t even born when I made my last movie. In “This Filthy World,” and in my last book, I don’t think I even mentioned my movies. I’m writing a new book now that doesn’t mention them much; it’s about hitchhiking across America, which I March 20, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 11 MARCH 20 - APRIL 2 If We Were You... “Zombie Movies: Redefining the Zombie for the Beijing leaders on multiple –and frequent – oc- Ventana WEDNESDAY 3.20 ‘War on Terror.’” casions. Weiwei was chosen by Time Magazine While you’ve all been all good and nice in the When: 7:30 p.m. as a runner up for Person of the Year in 2011 for week leading up this show, tonight is the night Skate with the Eerie Roller Girls Where: 180 Jack Burke Research and Economic his tireless intentions of revealing the oppression that you can let a little darkness out, because Tonight, for just $5, you (yes, you!) can finally Development Center, 5101 Jordan Road in China. Ventana’s come to town. The Cleveland-based Contact: behrend.psu.edu fulfill your lifelong secret fantasy of being a roller When: 7:15 p.m. industrial-metal band has sinister undertones in girl (or guy) by joining members of Erie’s own Drips & Beats: Hip-hop Where: Taylor Little Theatre, Mercyhurst spades, all while providing enough headbang for non-profit flat track roller derby team for an eve- Against Violence University, 501 E. 38th St. your hard-earned buck. Contact: 824.3000 ning of skating! A Chinese auction and bake sale The Drips & Beats crew is all for helping you When: 10 p.m. will take place; concessions and official ERG gear fight for your right to party, but when it comes Rachel Brooke Where: Sherlock’s, 508 State St. will also be available. Proceeds from the event to violence, they’re putting their foot down. In- Ever wanted to travel through time? Well, until Contact: 453.7760 benefit the team’s 2013 season. stead, they’re providing a party that has no place someone invents a machine that actually trans- When: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. for fights or any of that negativity, featuring the ports you to a different time and place, you can SUNDAY 3.24 Where: 3162 W. Lake Road Original Elements DJs, Random Union, Wil- always settle for someone that can make you feel Contact: www.EerieRollerGirls.com liam Weyes, and works from some of the best like you’re in a different decade. Rachel Brooke Star Wars Brunch local graffiti artists. oozes with old country soul, enough so that you’ll Picture this - a decadent brunch in an elegant THURSDAY 3.21 When: 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. think you’ve been transported into some sepia- hotel with a man, his sister, their estranged father, Where: the crooked i, 1013 State St. toned decade in the old west. and her star-crossed lover. Intrigue and alienation The Zombie Movie Encyclopedia Contact: facebook.com/thecrookedierie When: 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. are cast against this luxurious backdrop as the Calling all zombie fans! Here’s a great opportuni- Where: the crooked i, 1013 State St. man’s mentor - and mortal enemy of the man’s ty for you to catch some walkers without waiting FRIDAY 3.22 Contact: facebook.com/thecrookedierie father - also attends. Sound like a foreign movie for the new episode of “The Walking Dead.” Join plot? Nope, it’s just a not-quite breakfast, not- Penn State Behrend as they host a discussion of Maria J Langer Film Series SATURDAY 3.23 quite lunch with Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, the zombie arts hosted by Peter Dendle. Dendle, presents "Ai Weiwei: Never Sorry" Darth Vader, Han Solo, and Yoda at the Bel Aire! a leading expert on cinema involving our beloved Named one the year’s five best documentaries, Wine on the Lake When: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. walkers, is the author of “The Zombie Movie En- “Never Sorry” tells the tale of the daring Chi- Now in it’s eighth year, this popular tasting event Where: 2800 W. Eighth St. cyclopedia Vols. 1 and 2,” and will be discussing nese activist – and artist- who clashes with the at the Bayfront Convention Center will feature Contact: www.EriePhil.org 25 wineries - more than ever before! Also fea- turing live music and vendors; hotel packages at TUESDAY 3.26 the Avalon (which include accommodations sand transport) are still available. Light the Way to Justice When: 1 to 4 p.m. or 5 to 9 p.m. Curious about the future of Prop 8? DOMA? Where: 1 Sassafras Pier The upcoming SCOTUS hearings and how Contact: 607.329.0992 they’ll affect the future of “marriage” for years to come? Join Marriage Equality for PA for a peace- Star Wars and Beyond ful candlelight vigil in front of the Erie Court- The man with the very ordinary moniker has house, as State Senator Sean Wiley and Gov. produced some very extraordinary works in his candidate John Hanger, among others, will speak career; composer John Williams may not be a on these issues. household name to many, but his music is read- When: 7 p.m. ily identifiable - he counts the themes to "Harry Where: Erie Courthouse, 140 W. Sixth St. Thu. Mar. 21 Taught by Nuns Potter," "Jaws," "Jurassic Park," "Raiders of the Contact: Joshua Szczesny 923.3149 Lost Ark," "Schindler’s List," "Star Wars," and "Superman" among his accomplishments. Don’t WEDNESDAY 3.27 Fri. Mar. 22 Grunge Monkey miss this chance to hear his works the way they were meant to be heard - live and performed FILM at the Erie Art Museum by dozens of highly-trained musicians from the presents: “A Royal Affair” Sat. Mar. 23 Vetana Erie Philharmonic, inside the gorgeous Warner If you are a fan of romance, history, costume dra- Theater. mas, or all three, you owe it to yourself to check When: 8 p.m. out "A Royal Affair." Set in 1760s Denmark, this Break Free Wednesday Where: 811 State St. film tells the story of British Princess Caroline, Contact: www.EriePhil.org Wed. Mar. 27 Presented By: The Box who is married to the mad King Christian VII of Denmark. Caroline enters into an affair with Opening of The Bearded Lady an idealistic German doctor and all hell breaks Thu. Mar. 28 Rift Instead of gunning to post “First!” on some loose. Get to the Erie Art Museum early for random Internet post before anybody else has a drinks, food, and friends. chance to comment, you can actually head down When: 7 p.m. Bitchwax, Local 80, to The Bearded Lady for its very first show. The Where: Erie Art Museum, 411 State St. Fri. Mar. 29 Contact: Facebook.com/FilmErieArtMuseu Kevlar, Hammersmith brand new venue, which you can read more about on page 18, is kicking things off with hardcore acts xRepresentx, GhostxShip, No Zodiac, Men- THURSDAY 3.28 Sat. Mar. 30 Hammerd ace, Black Mask, and Hellsent on this exciting night. Edinboro Film Series When: 5:30 p.m. presents: “The Woman” 508 State Street 18-20 North Park Row 814-453-7760 Where: The Bearded Lady, 801 E. 11 St. It’s the classic tale of an ordinary family living an Contact: 453.4550 12 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com March 20, 2013 ordinary life in an ordinary place who just hap- has finished their newest CD and they’re having pen to capture the last remaining member of clan a release party at the crooked i for you to come that had been wandering the Northeast coast for and celebrate with them. March 27 decades surviving in the wilderness and subse- When: 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. UPMC Hamot and EU quently try to civilize her. Okay, maybe that last Where: the crooked i, 1013 State St. Present: Breastival Testival Frank G. Pogue Student Center, bit isn’t so ordinary -- which is exactly why you Contact: facebook.com/thecrookedierie March 23-30 Student Exhibit: Ben Lambert Multipurpose Room ought to pony-up the $2 and go catch this Lucky and Jocelyn Howard 11am-3pm

McKee-directed flick with an introduction by Bates Gallery, Loveland Hall This free event is held to raise SUNDAY 3.31 11am-6pm student and author Zach Owen. Besides, a trip breast cancer and testicular March 30 - April 6 Graphic Design Senior Show to Edinboro this week will get you ready for next cancer awareness. Enjoy free Bates Gallery, Loveland Hall week when legendary filmmaker -- and subject Great Big Films on the March 26 food, fun games, and prizes. 11am-6pm of this issue’s cover story -- John Waters makes Big Green Screen Esther Alice Estock Award Competition March 28 an appearance. Ever ask yourself, “Self, what’s so great about the Dr. William P. Alexander April 3-25 Visiting Artist: When: 8:30 p.m. Great Lakes, anyway?” Find out right now at the Music Building, Recital Hall Ceramics Invitational Alexis Rockman Where: 219 Meadville Street, Edinboro, 2pm Bruce Gallery, Doucette Hall Tom Ridge Environmental Center! Check out Doucette Hall, Room 119 Scot Cinema, Pogue Student Center, Reception: April 3, 5-7pm “Mysteries of the Great Lakes” on aforemen- 7:30pm Edinboro University of Pennsylvania tioned big, green screen. After all, you do live March 26 Featuring Ashley Lyon, Contact: 732.1048 right next to one. Women Environmentalists: Hide Sadohara, Tom Bartel, When: Noon Powerful Pioneers Brian Harper, Bethany Krull, FRIDAY 3.29 Where: 301 Peninsula Drive Cooper Science Center, Room 147 Jason Briggs and selected 4-5pm Contact: www.TRECerie.org works from the Phillis Blair

Goth Night As part of Women’s History Clark Collection. Curated by Month, this talk will focus EU Ceramics professors Chuck Whether you’re a member of the Germanic MONDAY 4.01 on women who have made Johnson and Lee Rexrode. people that invaded the Roman Empire from the pioneering contributions to Afternoon Hoops with the environmental movement. east between the 3rd and 5th centuries or just a the Bayhawks fan of gothic music or music in general, you can head down to Basement Transmissions for Goth You may think this is some cruel April Fool's Night. With established Erie metalheads Dis- joke, but you'd be wrong. We wouldn't do that to graceD leading a quintet of acts, you won’t feel you. The Bayhawks are tipping off today at 1:00, like roamin’ anywhere else. and you can be there to cheer them toward the When: 6 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. playoffs as they play host to the last place Spring- All events are on Edinboro University main campus Where: Basement Transmissions, 1501 State St. field Armor. You say you have to be at work/ Contact: basement-transmissions.webs.com Erie Zoo Animal Art Show & Sale school at 1:00 on a Monday afternoon? Fake an illness, if you get busted just say "April Fools!" For a full listing of events, visit When: 1 p.m. Have you ever wanted the chance to purchase www.edinboro.edu/calendar a painting of your favorite zoo animal that was Where: Erie Insurance Arena created just for you? Then stop by the Zoo stage Contact: 790.5600 for a chance to take a gander at the Erie Zoo’s artwork. There will also be the chance to purchase TUESDAY 4.02 bookmarks, key chains, and travel mugs with your favorite animals. During the show, there will be Mary D'Angelo Performing Arts a painting demonstration for your chance to see Center presents Ninety Miles the artist hard at work. Four-hundred-seventy-five-thousand-two- When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. hundred feet. Or ninety miles. That’s all that Where: Erie Zoo, 423 W. 38th St. separates the Florida Keys from Cuba. But you Contact: 864.4091 won’t have to travel the 1,454 miles south to Key West and hop a boat to hear the mix of - SATURDAY 3.30 Caribbean rhythms and American jazz and blues. All you have to do is get to the Mary D’Angelo Eric Brewer & Friends Performing Art Center to hear Ninety Miles, a CD Release Party group featuring great jazz artists bringing that If you’ve been wishing, and hoping, and thinking, southern flavor and flare right to your own back- and praying for a new by local jamsters yard. So this Tuesday enjoy the warmth of the Eric Brewer & Friends, then all your hopes and south without leaving The Gem City. dreams (Not all of your hopes and dreams, just When: 7:30 p.m. this one - Ed.) are about to come true. The band Where: 501 E. 38th St. Contact: 824.2000.

March 20, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 13 To-do List By: Alex Bieler

Buffalo Punk Explosion! cities that experienced of local talent. Dif- ferent microcosms of musical men and women populate all of our nation’s cities, and even if or every band you hear on popular radio you’ll never necessarily notice them, their strug- UPCOMING EVENTS or see make an appearance on TV, there gle for success is a tale that can be understood are plenty of others that you’ll likely never across the land. Fhear in your life. Of course, that doesn’t mean “I think it was going on in 100 cities across that there isn’t more out there that’s worth a lis- America at the same time,” Ploetz says in refer- ten. Thousands of band members are strumming ence to the local music explosion. “I really hope their guitars, bashing on their kits, and singing it’s a little more universal and that it will translate RACHEL BROOKE their hearts out, even though there’s a chance to people in Erie. It’s got a lot of humor in it that they’ll never have a bigger night than the gig and a lot of good music and I think people will MARCH 22 // FRIDAY @ 10:00 they’re presently playing. enjoy it.” While the chart-topping musicians soak in the For your chance to support these underground cold cash and adoration their fans throw at them, heroes, head down to 1505 State St. for a punk- it’s the small DIY groups that strive to entertain filled night at PACA. Tickets for the night are available for $10 online at buffalopunkerie.event- DRAGON WAGON brite.com or $12 at the door. “I devolved and evolved WITH SPECIAL GUESTS THE BLIND OWL BAND Pure Doctor MARCH 23 // SATURDAY @ 10:00 into poetry because I When we’re hurt, sick, or suffering from some became more interested physical malady, we can always go to a doctor for help; but while physicians can work to take care in the smallest unit of of our physical well-being, we often go elsewhere THE VULTURES beauty or communication, for some mental recuperation. Given that we are made of both body and mind, WITH SPECIAL GUESTS THE COUCHRIDERS so I’m just preoccupied it’s in our best interest to take care of both. In MARCH 24 // THURSDAY @ 10:00 fact, both sides go hand-in-hand in “Pure Doc- with the line, and poetry tor” at 7 p.m. Saturday, March 23 at the Perform- ing Artists Collective Alliance Performing Arts is just delivering line Center featuring a series of original poems by ALTARED MINDSET local poet Chuck Joy. after line after line." “It was on my mind to think about integration SUPERNOVA and bringing things together from my own per- ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY EVENT spective, so thought it might be an opportunity their towns that deserve a sizable portion of the to have a theatrical poetry event where the theme MARCH 28 // THURSDAY @ 10:00 average music fan’s attention. was a medical perspective,” says Joy, who is also Luckily for these underground grinders, the a child psychiatrist. “Helping people – that sort camera does occasionally fix its glass eye on local of thing. It was a terrific opportunity to kind of heroes, whether they’re from Erie or elsewhere. address that personally through this show but Understanding that these stories should be told, also offer something to the community through THE ROMANTIC ERA the folks at the Performing Artists Collective Al- poetry.” liance decided that our fair city needed to experi- Sponsored in part by the Sarah A. Reed Chil- MARCH 29 // FRIDAY @ 10:00 ence the “Buffalo Punk Explosion!” dren’s Center, “Pure Doctor” features a multitude Starting at 7 p.m. Friday, March 22, the event of local poets and health-care professionals. Ac- pairs Buffalo music scribe Elmer Ploetz’s docu- cording to Joy, the wide range of performers mir- mentary “BFLO PNK 1.0,” which chronicles the rors the different players that appear in his works. talented punk scene in the city just a two-hour “The poems themselves present a whole variety drive up East I-90, with a show featuring Buf- of characters and types, men and women, doc- ERIC BREWER AND FRIENDS falo’s beloved avant-garage group The Vores and tors, medical students, patients, a whole gamut of Erie’s own Unordained. people – even a dog,” Joy says. “I devolved and CD RELEASE PARTY The visit will mark the first time both Ploetz’s evolved into poetry because I became more in- MARCH 30 // SATURDAY @ 10:00 powerful punk piece and The Vores will play in terested in the smallest unit of beauty or com- The Gem City, although the former’s story of a munication, so I’m just preoccupied with the line, blue-collar town’s talented music scene should be and poetry is just delivering line after line after familiar enough for Erieites. line. So here, to break it up a little bit, I invited a “Every city had its same version of the same whole bunch of other voices to share that.” thing going on,” Ploetz says, suggesting that at- If you’re in need of a mental-health break and tendees will be engrossed by the personal stories could use some thoughtful entertainment to in his film.“That’s why I think Buffalo was like soothe your mind, make your way to PACA to TUE: Songwriter Showcase & Vinyl Night Erie was like Pittsburgh was like Cleveland and allow some Joy in your life. Admittance to “Pure a lot of the experiences, some of them may be Doctor” calls for a suggested donation of $10. SUN: Open Mic & Jam sort of Buffalo-specific, but I’ll bet there will be people in Erie who will be saying ‘Hey, you could Alex Bieler can be contacted at aBieler@ErieRead- have said that about our town.’” er.com, and you can follow him on Twitter @ According to Ploetz, it wasn’t just the Rustbelt Catch20Q. 14 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com March 20, 2013 Theater Review: "Sense and Sensibility"

By: Ben Speggen writers capture women better– their relationships with each other and with men – than Jane Aus- ten. ’ll begin with an admission: I’m not a wom- At the heart of Austen’s 1811 classic, we find an – in case you didn’t know – so I don’t, the Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne, the and can’t, understand wholly the sisterly head and heart, respectively, of Austen’s tale of love thing. loss and love and balance in late-18th century Perhaps I should follow that with a second ad- England. Sharp in love and logical, the two- Imission: I’m an only child, so I don’t know what halves of Elinor ( Jennifer Blair) and Marianne (Marie Glaser) unite to balance each other, like Separately, the sisters Elinor two opposite, awkward blades, pinned together to form a pair of scissors. When joined, the sisters and Marianne are each dull keenly work through the loss of their father and and flat on one side but sharp their respective futures in love; when unhinged, they’re lacking yet dangerous to anyone grabbing and deadly on the other. But hold of the wrong side. together, they guard against The pin holding the blades together comes their exposed sharp edges. by way of their mother Mrs. Henry Dashwood (Teresa Testrake). Although she tends to initially Some of the stars of Sense and Sensibiltiy, from left: Eresa favor Marianne, the character from whom we Testrake (Mrs. Henry Dashwood), Jennifer Blair (Elinor), Marie it’s like to have a sibling – brother or sister – with see the most development throughout the play, Glaser (Marianne), and Ed Moss (Sir John Middleton) which to quarrel and to experience growing the daughters’ mother serves as a plot-mover and pains, to rely on in desperate times of need, to drives the development of her two daughters as intended time with its original language, the Jon the show with snarky, well-timed lines, her op- love, to hate, to live life with as we march onward Elinor begins to recognize her heart’s panging Jory-written play unfolds in 21 scenes – some as position to the Dashwood sisters falls flat of its along the crooked path overgrown with obstacles. and Marianne tempers her emotional overflows short as 30 seconds – making it difficult to feel true potential. But from what I’ve heard, the bond between with a bit of thought and maturity, as the two locked into the narrative at times. But director Two standout performances come from Evan siblings can be unlike any other relationship in leave their homestead, settle into a cottage, travel Carolin Lynn negotiates these quick changes in O’Polka, whose nervous and fidgety Edward Fef- overcoming those hurdles. And from what I’ve to London, and return home. time and place with costume, lighting and scen- fars uses the stage better than anyone else and the learned during my time as an English major, few While it’s refreshing to see a classic set in its ery cues, preventing the audience from ever feel- ever-dapper Domenic Del Greco, as Willoughby, ing completely lost in transition, and the delivery who genuinely conveniences the audience into of the script from the actors never seems obtuse thinking he’s something he’s not. or distant. Separately, the sisters Elinor and Marianne Glaser presents a vivacious Marianne – often are each dull and flat on one side but sharp and twirling, arms open and swinging, smiling, cry- deadly on the other. But together, they guard ing, laughing, screaming – a bold and beautiful against their exposed sharp edges. And together, display of someone overcome with emotion but Blair and Glaser seem like two blood-born sis- troubled by her own lack of reservation. Blair ters, scissoring their way through life’s crooked contains her Elinor with great control, conveying and overgrown path to life, love, and a happily- a stoic and distant woman both challenged by the ever-after. carefree nature of her counterpart and her own desire to open her heart up to potential breaking. “Sense and Sensibility” continues its run at the While Gretchen Kerr’s Fanny – the sister-in Erie Playhouse March 20 through 23, with shows law to Elinor and Marianne – adds comic relief at 7:30 p.m., and a final matinee performance at 2 at times, an outburst at Lucy Steele (Kathleen p.m. March 24. Cahill) exaggerated to a near bathetic point, as the screaming and wailing muffled and distorted Ben Speggen can be contacted at bSpeggen@ both ladies’ lines, pulls the audience out of the ErieReader.com, and you can follow him on Twit- moment. And while Steele has a chance to steal ter @ERBenSpeggen.

Officially Licensed

Fraternity & Sorority Greek Products 1702 West 8th Street

March 20, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 15 MUSIC

REVIEWS Kate Nash Girl Talk David Bowie 10p Records The Next Day Son Volt Youth Lagoon Iso Honky Tonk Wondrous Bughouse A concept album driven by Rounder Fat Possum relationships, angst, frus- After 23 studio , tration, liberation, happi- a multitude of personas, Nearly 20 years after the Since the release of his de- ness, hatred, and any other and immense critical and dissolution of Uncle Tupelo, but album back in 2011, feeling standard to pulsing commercial success, David the careers of the band’s Trevor Powers, who per- punk-pop peppered with Bowie has nothing that he main minds, Jeff Tweedy forms as Youth Lagoon, has fem-rock spices through- needs to prove to the mu- and Jay Farrar, have gone moved on to bigger things out, “Girl Talk” gives listeners both old and new sic world. Still, that doesn’t in two different directions. – quite literally – leaving the Kate Nash. The old populates the album’s lyr- mean that he doesn’t still want to be heard. On While Tweedy and his band home recordings in Boise, ics, as Nash delivers an album shrouded in a his first album in a decade – and first since a Wilco have gone on to release a string of crit- Idaho for a studio in Atlanta to work on his mist of confusion, most clearly seen in “Rap for 2004 heart attack that had seemingly pushed ically-beloved albums, you don’t hear about sophomore release “Wondrous Bughouse.” You Rejection,” a candid observation on the com- him to retirement – Bowie doesn’t take a new Farrar’s Son Volt nearly as much anymore. can hear the change in the album, as this new plication of relationships. But the music here form as much as effortlessly mold his previous Wilco may have taken the alt-country of Uncle batch of songs sound bigger, and more confi- is more complex than her previous works. The personas together into one collective piece. Tupelo and began experimenting with it, but dent than those from just two years ago. Powers surfer guitar on “Death Proof” adds dimen- That doesn’t mean that “The Next Day” sounds Farrar and Sun Volt went back in time, sticking creates a dreamlike world on “Wondrous Bug- sion to her rants and raves, and the melodic like a recap, mind you. Bowie, while admittedly with folk-country tunes about the little guys house,” at times channeling both Deerhunter pairing of Nash’s vocal and guitar on “Are You older, can still wail away, providing new bom- of America. “Honky Tonk,” Sun Volt’s latest al- and even Sigur Ros on the ear-pleasing “Mute.” There Sweetheart” gives the album a necessary bast amongst the songs. Of course, the album bum, focuses in on the Bakersfield sound of the While fun and fanciful at times, Powers man- tenderness that contrasts Nash’s screeching in doesn’t come near touching his classics, nor ‘60s, kicking off the album with a nice waltz in ages to mix an ominous feel amid in his music, tracks like “Sister.” “Conventional Girl” and “OMY- would we expect it to, but the fresh batch of “Hearts and Minds,” with touches of pedal steel singing about unanswered pleas and a lack of GOD!” epitomizes the album – one, featuring tunes mixed with touches of old, like the drum- and fiddle livening up the tune. After that, how- self-worth in his childlike voice. Although some delicate swirling backing vocals that open to a beat from “Five Years” on “You Feel So Lonely ever, it’s a healthy dose of the exact same safe of the production touches and vocals are lost thrashing Nash, and the other, a dynamic, jerky You Could Die,” make for a welcome return. country croon, leaving “Honky Tonk” a rather in the mix, it all adds up to an impressive sonic shift in pace without warning or reservation. ~ Alex Bieler boring affair. ~ Alex Bieler landscape. ~ Alex Bieler ~ Ben Speggen

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

16 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com March 20, 2013 Street Fashionista Art Imitating Life

By: Leslie McAllister

his topic may have popped up over one of the many Erie Reader issues I have under my Gucci belt, but I feel like a revisit is in order.T After all, I suppose it is how I tend to look at style and fashion. When flipping through magazines my eye goes to editorial that is vibrant, full of patterns and colors, and filled with bold, sparkling jewelry. I like to play “I Spy” with my periodicals. Thus, I love when outfits are put together from the soul, not by what’s on trend. Just a couple name drops of style leaders that exemplify my approach: Kate Moss, Olivia Pal- ermo, Nicole Richie, MKA (also known as that which is the Olsen twins), SJP (if you have to ask stop reading – SJP is the new LBD), Anna Della Russo, and a real zinger, Zandra Rhodes (no rela- a flair. She doesn’t follow trends, and that is why tion to Nick Rhodes – though as a gent, he could she always looks amazing. be listed here as well). Favorite go to outfit for summer concerts. These gems stay true to their style. Their art is Because I like a variety of styles, my goal in dictated by how they dress. Style is more interest- choosing an outfit for a concert is to NOT dress ing when it makes sense but doesn’t match. Here, for the style of music. It bothers me when people we are wearing multiple patterns, like stripes dress like hippies only on a day they are going to and florals, rich colors, bold makeup, or layering see Phish or whatnot. So when I go to a concert, in the most skilled way – enter MKA and Miss I still dress like me. Jeans and a fun top with a Palermo. jacket and some funky jewelry. When layering, you have long flowing, draping Your Top 3 favorite retail websites? Sundance- garments: wide-legged jeans, a baggy T-shirt, catalog.com, anthropologie.com and Patagonia. a wrap cardigan, and a scarf. Or slim-cut pants com with a blouse, a blazer, a floppy hat, just drip- Your three favorite artists? Amedeo Modigli- ping in gold and silver jewelry. It’s a bohemian ani, Maxfield Parish, and Alphonse Mucha. approach to dressing – the idea that adding the Tell me about the art classes you are doing unexpected brings da funk and da cool. with the kids. I returned to school to get my cer- Guys check out these greats: Cameron Silver, tification in art education, which I finished last Marc Jacobs, Johnny Depp (though he gets a fall. Right now, I am substitute teaching, which little crazy), and my very personal favorite, An- doesn’t give me a lot of input in lessons, but I am dre 3000. For the fellas, it’s all about layering and filled with ideas! mixing prints. A winning smile helps too. Wink. What are your favorite art lessons to teach? Who? Heather Riehl My favorite lessons to do with kids are ones that Where? Lakeside at the foot of Blackstone & allow them to express themselves. Putting too Beachgrove many restrictions on a lesson can restrict creativ- Why Heather? Heather has an artist’s aesthetic ity. I bring other subject matter into my lesson to dressing. She works with the unexpected and plans, as well because integrating other subjects pulls together looks that are interesting and at- helps students realize the importance of art edu- tractive. She probably colored outside the lines cation. when she was a kid! What do you love most about Erie? I am one Here, Heather pairs a navy blue and white of the few people who actually likes snow. Pr- striped dress from Anthropologie with a per- esque Isle State Park and Asbury Woods are trea- fect sunny car coat. I love her ox-blood boots sures to have in my hometown. I love having four and fresh jewelry. “The earrings are from Glass seasons. I have traveled to many places and every Growers and the necklace was made by my friend time I catch a sunset on Lake Erie, I think, this is Mara,” she tells me. Perfection! one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. What We Want to Know Favorite local businesses? We have a lot of Describe your style. My style is very eclectic. amazing local restaurants in Erie. Some of my My theory is that if a piece is either classic or favorites are: Avanti’s, 1201 Kitchen, and Petra. very unusual you can wear it forever. A friend As far as retail stores, my mom owns Rustic and once told me there is always something a little Refined in the Colony Plaza, and she always has off about my outfits, which I guess sums it up. If fun items. I also like to visit Campbell Pottery I am wearing a nice dress, I might match it with and Glass Grower’s Gallery for fun gifts and ac- a pair of fringed boots or a rubber handbag or cessories. some wild jewelry that doesn’t necessarily match. Check out these blogs for inspiration: www. I don’t do it on purpose; it is just that those odd thenativefox.blogspot.com, www.noirohiovin- pieces are what I am most attracted to. tage.com, www.streetpeeper.com. Who is your favorite fashion innovator? If I had to pick a celebrity, I would say Michelle Wil- Find me out on the town and challenge yourself to liams. She always looks feminine and classy with get noticed by the Erie Reader! March 20, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 17 New All-Ages Music Venue Set to Open The Bearded Lady Brings New Life to the Lower East Side

By: Alex Bieler Standing by a long, light-brown bar inside the ance, Don and Johnny building were Don Sornberger and Johnny Mat- chose the name of the ters, the tattooed twosome behind the venue. venue because it, well, n a cold, damp Monday evening, I Much like Mid-Town, where Don is the owner certainly grabs your at- found myself driving down a sec- and Johnny works as a tattoo artist, the room was tention. tion of East 11th Street that I rarely “It was long enough travelled, guiding Ol’ Big Sexy, my to fit across the front faithful pewter-grey truck, eastbound from State "There isn’t much for kids of the building and Street as she gently rumbled past the various cars look good,” Don said, O to do. [Going to a show] is parked on either side. while he stood behind Eventually Ol’ Big Sexy and I made our way definitely just something to the bar, where they’ll down to the last intersection before E. 11th sell water, pop, energy breaks off because of the Bayfront Parkway. do. You get to meet up with drinks, and other non- On the northeast corner of E. 11th and Wayne your friends – it’s inexpensive, alcoholic items. As streets, I spied a red brick building with a sign music fans themselves, reading “Broken Inn” and a big Mid-Town Tat- something to bring people Don and Johnny too-emblazoned vehicle parked right beside it. It wanted to make sure was then that I knew I had reached my destina- together and keep you that The Bearded Lady tion. from walking around the could be a place where You see, the former Broken Inn has been go- younger bands could ing through some changes recently, part of a streets doing nothing.” play, but where young- transformation that will end up with the place er audiences could go emerging as The Bearded Lady, a brand spankin’ and have fun as well. new all-ages venue right here in our beloved city. decked out in black and red, sandwiched by the “There’s not a lot of Slated to open at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, March 23 white of the ceiling and floor. Artwork by Johnny places besides bars for with xRepresentx, GhostxShip, and other hard- and fellow tattoo artists Corey Thompson and bands to play where core acts taking the stage, The Bearded Lady was Eerie Eric adorns the walls by the stage – a spec- younger kids can come well underway in its renovation, as I discovered tral face here, a Yeti there – giving the place a and see live music,” when I opened the black door at the entrance. distinct feel and identity. Much like the appear- Johnny said. “Hangout, Forward Hall – those don’t really exist any- more, so there isn’t much for kids to do. Interior of the new all-ages venue The Bearded Lady [Going to a show] is definitely just some- thing to do. You get to meet up with your friends ever’s the problem starter, they can go and they’re – it’s inexpensive, something to bring people not going to be allowed back in. We’re not going together and keep you from walking around the to be a nuisance.” streets doing nothing.” Instead, the two are set to join in with the rest “ Either write something worth Don and Johnny pointed out that while the of Erie’s music venues as another outlet for enter- reading or do something opening event is a hardcore show, they want tainment and Don and Johnny’s work will have to give everybody a chance to play, whether it’s truly started when The Bearded Lady starts sing- worth writing. ” hip-hop, rock, or whatever else. But there is one ing March 23. group of people that they won’t tolerate however – troublemakers. Alex Bieler, who approves of both and ladies –BENJAMIN FRANKLIN “It’s definitely going to be a drama-free envi- and the combination thereof, can be contacted at aB- ronment,” Don said. “We’re not going to tolerate [email protected], and you can follow him on any problems, like fights – stuff like that. Who- Twitter @Catch20Q.

silkscreenunlimited.com 1.800.724.1683 Like us!

Screen Printing | Embroidery | Engraving

18 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com March 20, 2013 call 866.2731 or go to 8 p.m., Learn about up- Raving About Ravioli 898.6108 or visit beh- facebook.com/jazz-erie. coming projects and vol- 7 to 9 p.m., Frankie rend.psu.edu. Indoor Walking Program unteer opportunities. & May, 1101 Penin- Sat, Mar. 30 Events Calendar / March 20 - April 2 Sundays and Mondays at Tom Ridge Environmen- sula Drive, $45/pp. For Book Signing with 6 p.m., Elk Valley High tal Center, 301 Peninsula more information, call Shiela Gamble School, 2556 Maple Ave., Drive. For more informa- 836.0070 or visit frankie- tion, call 833.7424. andmay.com/events. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., author $0.50/pp. For more infor- of “The HR Suite at Erie mation, call 774.3519. Sat, Mar. 23 Lecture, Technical” Werner Books, The Box Street Couture webs.com. Transmissions, 1501 State Art, Music & Wine Mercyhurst Preparatory Arts & Culture Happy Hour at School’s MPS Grand 3514 Liberty St., Free. Sun, Mar. 24 10 p.m., Sherlocks, 508 St., $7, For more infor- Discussion, & For registration informa- The Erie Playhouse Mon, Mar. 25 mation, go to facebook. Urraro Gallery presents: The State St. For more infor- B.T. Show 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m., Spoken World tion, call 864.1565. Ongoing. mation go to facebook. com/basement.transmis- 5 to 8 p.m., Every oth- Mercyhurst Prep, 538 E. Exhibit: The Cup: Works Princess Ball sions or basement-trans- er Friday starting Feb. 8, Film by Valerie Gilman com/sherlockspark-place, 5 to 9 p.m., Eddie Dol- Grandview Blvd., $20 3 to 5:30 p.m., The Am- or call 453.7760. drum, The Heel, The missions.webs.com. Enjoy Live music, a fea- incl. games, prize raffles, Ongoing and Doug Lodge bassador Banquet and G.G.U. Show Hannigans, Teatime for tured monthly artist, and theme baskets, and silent Poets Anonymous: Sun, Mar. 31 a wide ranges of wines to Community Poetry Ongoing Through March 31. Erie Conference Center, Crys- 5:30 to 10:30 p.m., Bail 3, The Ladder Coins. Open Mic & Jam auctions. For more infor- Reading Great Big Films Art Museum, Holstein tal Ballroom, 7794 Peach Easy, Kleos, The Conva- Basement Transmis- choose from Penn Shore’s mation call 824.2161 or Wine Shop. 152 W. 12th Presents: Mysteries Gallery, 20 E. Fifth St. St., For registration infor- lescene, Beyone Silence, sions, 1501 State St., $5, 9 p.m., the crooked i, 1013 email tespin@mpslakers. Thursdays at 5 p.m. The of the Great Lakes For more information, mation call the box office Pathos Departute, 9mm For more information, go State St., For more infor- St., For more informa- com Erie Book Store, 915 call 459.5477. at 454.2852. to facebook.com/base- mation, go to facebook. tion, call 455.62.40 or vis- State St. For more infor- Noon, Weds. through Second Sundays All An Act Theatre Dental Plan. Basement Sun, Mar. 24 Transmissions, 1501 State ment.transmissions or com/thecrookedierie. it urraro.com mation, call 455.1018. Sun., Tom Ridge Envi- presents: The Liberation basement-transmissions. lBT Women Meets Star Wars Brunch Poets' Hall events ronmental Center, 301 From 1 to 5 p.m., ev- of Jerome Gleason St., $6, For more infor- Weds, April 3 at Zodiac Dinor at the Bel Aire presents Friday Night ery second Sunday of mation, go to facebook. webs.com. Peninsula Drive. For Ninety Miles 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Meet Writes Weekly Open Mic more information, call the month, explore the 3 p.m., All An Act The- com/basement.transmis- Weds, Mar. 27 Every 2nd Sunday at 12 7:30 p.m., Mercy- p.m., Social group for les- the characters and come 838.4123. Erie Art Museum free of atre, 652 West 17th St., sions or basement-trans- Break Free Wednesday 7 to 9 p.m., Poets' Hall: Great Big Films charge. 411 State St. For $10/pp, $7 students and missions.webs.com. hurst University’s Mary bian, bisexual and trans- dressed as your favorite! The International Fellow- presented by The Box D’Angelo Performing Bel Aire, 2800 W. 8th St., Presents: Meerkats more information, call seniors. For more infor- Thurs, Mar. 21 gendered women. 2516 ship of Poets and Spoken 459.5477. mation call 450.8553 or Drips & Beats Hip Hop 10 p.m., Sherlocks, 508 Arts Center, 501 E. 38th State St., For more in- $25, For more informa- Word Artists, 1136 East Noon, 2, and 5 p.m., Open Mic and Art Show visit allanact.net. Against Violence State St. For more infor- St., For more informa- formation, contact Laurie tion call 455.1375 or visit Lake Road. For more Weds. through Sun., mation go to facebook. tion contact the box office at 455.3543 or visit erie- eriephil.org. information, visit Poet- Tom Ridge Environmen- First Friday of the month, 10 p.m., the crooked com/sherlockspark-place, at 824.3000, or visit pac. 7 to 11 p.m. All styles of Family Friendly gaynews.com. Mon, Mar. 25 sHall.org. tal Center, 301 Peninsula i, 1013 State St., For or call 453.7760. mercyhurst.edu. Erie Sisters Meets Poets' Hall events Drive. For more informa- music, comedy, and poet- more information, Painting on Canvas ry are welcome. Forward Ongoing Sun, Mar. 24 Recreation & Every 4th Saturday at 7 Classes at Claytopia presents The tion, call 838.4123. Wild Holiday: Winter go to facebook.com/ The Vultures wsg/ p.m., Local transgender Sunday Sessions Great Big Films Hall, 2502 Peach St., All thecrookedierie. Social 6 p.m. and Friday Mar. Weekly Open Mic Presents: Lewis & Clark: ages, Free snacks and cof- Animals of PI Taught by Nuns The Couchriders support group that pro- 29. Dandelions, Peacock fee. For more informa- vides support and encour- 3 to 5 p.m. Poets' Hall: Great Journey West 2 to 3:30 p.m., Presque 10 p.m., Sherlocks, 508 10 p.m., the crooked Feather, Bird in Cage, tion, go to facebook.com/ Isle State Park, 301 Pen- i, 1013 State St., For Ongoing agement for both MTF Porcupine and Friend. The International Fellow- 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., Weds. forwardhallevents. State St. For more infor- The South East Erie and FTM transgender in- ship of Poets and Spoken through Sun., Tom Ridge 2nd annual Presque insula Drive. Free. For mation go to facebook. more information, Claytopia, 2503 W. 15th registration information, go to facebook.com/ Farmers Market dividuals. Unitarian Uni- St., Ste 8; Cost: Large Word Artists, 1136 East Environmental Center, Isle Art Competition com/sherlockspark-place, versalist Church, 7180 Lake Road. For more 301 Peninsula Drive. For Submissions call 833.7424. or call 453.7760. thecrookedierie. Every Saturday, 10 a.m. to $20 or $25 and Small: Planetarium Show 2 p.m., on the corner of Perry Highway. For more $15. For more informa- information, visit Poet- more information, call Fri, Mar. 22 Thurs, Mar. 28 information, call (440) sHall.org. 838.4123. Through March 29. Tom Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. East 38th and Pine Av- tion, visit heathercash. Ridge Environmental The Rickie Hopkins Trio Altared Mindset 265.8191 or visit eriesist- John Nolen Project Great Big Films and Saturdays at 2:30 Supernova 1yr enue. For more informa- ers.ning.com. com/painting-classes. Conversation Presents: Dinosaurs Center, For more infor- p.m., Erie Planetarium, 5:45 to 7:45 p.m., Feat. tion, call Bob Merski, at Spirituality mation, call 217.9632 or Anniversary Tues, Mar. 26 Join CIVITAS and Back Alive! 356 W. 6th St., $5/pp $4 Artist Lena Logvina, Ur- 825.7392. and Sexuality Candlelight Vigil email [email protected]. child. For more informa- raro Gallery. W. 12th St., 10 p.m., the crooked Volunteer Days Discussion Group to Erie, Inc., For more in- 1 and 4 p.m., Weds. Erie Playhouse presents: For more information, i, 1013 State St., For in Support of formation, go to johnno- through Sun., Tom Ridge Sense and Sensibility tion, call 871.5790. Every Wednesday 9 a.m. Marriage Equality call 455.62.40 or visit ur- more information, to 1 p.m. and every Sun- Every 3rd Tuesday at 7 lenproject.com or Back- Environmental Center, Sun, Mar. 24 raro.com go to facebook.com/ p.m., Community Unit- 7 p.m., Front of Erie [email protected]. 301 Peninsula Drive. For March 20-24 at 7:30 Calling all Princesses to day 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Tom Foodie Book Club p.m. Sunday shows at 2 Grunge Monkey thecrookedierie. Ridge Environmental ed Church, 1011 W. 38th Courthouse, 140 West more information, call dance at the Princess RIFT St., For more informa- 838.4123. p.m., An intimate journey Ball presented by 10 p.m., Sherlocks, 508 Center, 301 Peninsula Sixth St., For more in- Third Monday’s at 7 p.m., through hope and heart- tion, call 864.4429 pr vis- formation, visit me4pa. Werner Books, 3514 Lib- the Erie Playhouse State St. For more infor- 10 p.m., Sherlocks, 508 Drive. Groups and indi- it uccwebsites.net/com- Weds, Mar. 20 break as two young ladies Youtheatre mation go to facebook. State St. For more infor- viduals are welcome (age org or email ME4PA2@ erty St., Free. For regis- FILM at the Erie Art find that when sense and com/sherlockspark-place, mation go to facebook. 13 and up). For more in- muceriepa.html. gmail.com. tration information, call 3 to 5:30 p.m., Crystal Tai Chi Museum presents: sensibility meet, love can’t or call 453.7760. com/sherlockspark-place, formation, contact Jen Weds, Mar. 20 864.1565. “SMASHED” be far behind. Erie Play- Ballroom at the Ambas- Rachel Brooke or call 453.7760. Salem at 833.7424. 7 p.m., Whole Foods Co- Weekly Writers Club sador Hotel, 7794 Peach Ethnic Lunch & 6 p.m. doors, 7 p.m. house, 13 W. 10 St., For 10 p.m., the crooked Fri, Mar. 29 Free Fun Fridays by Learn: Hungarian op, 1241 W. 26th St., Free Tuesdays at 7 p.m., and more information, contact St., $20 each and tables of Gannon OT Students to sign up at Customer Thursdays at 1 p.m., screening. Erie Art Mu- 10 are $180. For reserva- i, 1013 State St., For The Romantic Era 11:30 a.m. Lifelong seum, 20 E. Fifth St., $5 the box office at 454.2852 more information, 1:00 p.m. Lifelong Learn- Service. For more infor- Christine Kern, Ph.D. or visit erieplayhouse.org. tion information contact 10 p.m., the crooked Learning Institute at mation go to http://www. and Eric Botts, BFA. will General Admission, To 2013 Schuster Fringe the box office at 452.2852 go to facebook.com/ i, 1013 State St., For ing Institute at Life- LifeWorks Erie, 406 purchase tickets, visit: thecrookedierie. Works Erie, 406 Peach wfcerie.coop. lead an open discussion Festival presents: or go to erieplayhouse. Moneyshot more information, Peach St., $5 members/$8 titled “Let Your Words www.brownpapertickets. Glow Show org. go to facebook.com/ Street – FREE non-members. For more Fri, Mar. 25 com/event/324287. 9 p.m., Oasis Pub, 3122 For more information call Cooking with the Italian Dance and Play”. Wer- March 21-23 at 8 p.m., thecrookedierie. information call 453- ner Books, 3514 Liberty Sat, Mar. 30 West Lake Road. For Bitchwax, Local 80, 453-5072 or visit www. 5072 or visit www.life- Chef, Michael Farsace Fri, Mar. 22 Gannon University’s Breakfast with the more information go to Kevlar, Hammersmith lifeworkserie.org St., $30/month. Open Langer Film Series: Ai Schuster Theatre, 620 New Horizon workserie.org. 6 p.m., Lifelong Learning to all genres and all lev- Easter Bunny oasispub.net, or visit face- Institute at LifeWorks Weiwei Never Sorry Sassafras St., $5/pp. For 9 p.m., Sherlocks, 508 Music Project Thurs, Mar. 21 els of writers. For regis- 9 to 11 a.m., expERIEnce book.com/oasispuberie. State St. For more infor- Erie, 406 Peach St., $45 2:15 and 7:15 p.m., Mer- more information visit B.T. Show Thursdays, 4 p.m. Life- Al Stone Lecture Series tration information, call gannon.edu. Children’s Museum, 420 mation go to facebook. presents: “The Impact of member/$55 non-mem- 864.1565. cyhurst University, Tay- D'Angelo Department French St.,$12 members, 2 to 3 p.m., Basement com/sherlockspark-place, long Learning Institute, bers. For more informa- Information Sessions lor Little Theatre, 501 E. LifeWorks Erie, 406 the Earned Income Tax of Music presents: 'The $15 non-members incl. Transmissions, 1501 State or call 453.7760. Credit on Erie County” tion call 453-5072 or visit for Prospective 38th St., Adults $6, Se- Marriage of Figaro' hot breakfast, entertain- St., $7, For more infor- Chrome Peach St., SPECIAL www.lifeworkserie.org M.B.A. Students nior $5, Students Free. ment by Buzz n Bees, and mation, go to facebook. FEE. For more informa- 9:30 a.m., Edinboro Uni- Coping with Loss For more information March 22-24, Time TBA, spring themed art activi- 9 p.m., Oasis Pub, 3122 tion call 453-5072 or visit versity’s Diebold Center and Grief March 19, 25 and April contact the box office at com/basement.transmis- West Lake Road. For Mary D’ Angelo Per- ties. For more informa- sions or basement-trans- www.lifeworkserie.org for Performing Arts, Al 4 at 5:30 p.m., The Sam 824.3000, or visit pac. forming Arts Center at more information go to Laugh Riot Erie 6 p.m. UPMC Hamot and Irene Black School of tion, call 453.3743. missions.webs.com. Stone Intergenrational Women’s Hospital, 118 E. mercyhurst.edu. Mercyhurst University, Erie Zoo Spring Egg- oasispub.net, or visit face- presents: Acting Center. Free and open to Business at Penn State 501 E. 38th St., For more venture Egg Hunt Sat, Mar. 23 book.com/oasispuberie. for Dancers 2nd St., $5. For more in- Erie, The Behrend Col- Weds, Mar. 27 Community Call to Goth Night the public. For more in- formation call 453-5072 FILM at the Erie Art information call 824.3000 Saturdays, noon to 1 p.m. formation, go to edin- lege, 4701 College Dr., or visit miac.mercyhurst. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Erie Peace - Silence the or visit www.lifeworkse- For more information, Museum presents: Zoo, 423 West 38th St., 6 to 11:30 p.m., Dis- For more information, boro.edu. rie.org edu. Violence Event graced, Eyes to the Sky, Lunch and Lecture call 898.6818 or visit beh- “A Royal Affair” Reg. admission price. For contact Rob Connick at Tues, Mar. 26 4 to 9 p.m., Baybreeze Collispo Coumbine, 402.1144 or laughriote- Series: Embracing rend.psu.edu/mbainfo. 6 p.m. doors, 7 p.m. Sat - Sun, Mar. 23-24 more information, call Free Ask and ‘Art of the Ask’ Classes to 864.4091. Lounge, 25 E. 10th St., Third Realm, Standard [email protected]. Your Changing Role screening. Erie Art Mu- Auditions for $5. For more information, Issue Citizen. Basement Laugh Riot Erie Learn Series: CTI Explore Different Fund- seum, 20 E. Fifth St., $5 Dramashops “8” and Sun, Mar. 31 12:30 p.m. Lifelong Physical Therapy raising Styles call 838.8941. Transmissions, 1501 presents: Acting Learning Institute at General Admission, To “[title of show]” Easter Brunch at TREC Dragon Wagon wsg/ State St., $6 All Ages, Workshops at 12:30 p.m. Lifelong Tuesdays at 6 p.m., Be- purchase tickets, visit: LifeWorks Erie, 406 ginning on March 26. 11 a.m. Sat, and 5 p.m. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sunset The Blind Owl Band For more information, Edinboro University Peach St., Lunch and Learning Institute at www.brownpapertickets. go to facebook.com/base- The Office of Community Sun, Gannon Universi- Cafe at Tom Ridge En- 10 p.m., the crooked Sundays 1:30 to 3 p.m., Lecture: $8 members/$10 LifeWorks Erie, 406 com/event/324290. ty’s Schuster Theatre, 620 vironmental Center, 301 ment.transmissions or Peach St., For more in- and Workforce Programs i, 1013 State St., For For more information, non-members, includes at Penn State Erie, The Thurs, Mar. 28 Sassafras St., first-time Peninsula Drive., $18.95 more information, basement-transmissions. lunch served at 11:30 formation call 453-5072 webs.com. contact Rob at 402-1144 Behrend College, 4701 Edinboro Film Series and experienced actors Adults, $10.95 Children, go to facebook.com/ or laughrioterie@gmail. a.m., Lecture Only: $5 or visit www.lifeworkse- welcome. For more infor- Under 3 Free. $2 off mov- rie.org College Dr., For more in- presents: The Woman thecrookedierie. Sat, Mar. 30 com. members/$8 non-mem- formation, call 898.6013 mation contact info@dra- ie ticket with purchase. Ventana Noon Timer bers. For more informa- 8:30 p.m., Edinboro Uni- mashop.org. For reservation informa- Eric Brewer & Friends Tues, April 2 or visit Behrend.psu.edu/ versity, Pogue Student 10 p.m., Sherlocks, 508 CD Release Party Toastmasters Club tion call 453-5072 or visit In The Eye of the cde. tion call 833.5843. www.lifeworkserie.org Center Scot Cinema, 405 Sat - Sun, Mar. 23-24 State St. For more infor- 10 p.m., the crooked Every 2nd and 4th Thurs- Beholder: Experiencing Scotland Rd., EUP Stu- 2013 Schuster Fringe Watercolor for Art Series with the Weds, Mar. 20 Music mation go to facebook. i, 1013 State St., For day at 7 p.m., Keystone Beginners and Beyond dents Free, $2 General Festival presents: com/sherlockspark-place, more information, Business Service Cen- Erie Art Museum Poetry Reading Admission. For more in- True West or call 453.7760. ter, 3823 W. 12th. St. For 6 p.m. Lifelong Learning / 4 Part Series by Ron Hayes House DJ go to facebook.com/ formation call 732.1048, March 21-23 at 8 p.m., Ongoing thecrookedierie. more information, go to Institute at LifeWorks 2:30 p.m. Lifelong Learn- 7 p.m., Gannon Univer- or visit aux.edinboro.edu/ Gannon University’s Colony Club Trio 9 p.m., Oasis Pub, 3122 Hammerd 6189.toastmastersclubs. Erie, 406 Peach St., $30 ing Institute at LifeWorks sity, The Knight Club, filmseries. Zurn Building Rm 104, Thursdays, 7 to 9 p.m., West Lake Road. For org. members/$35 non-mem- Erie, 406 Peach St., $30 Fourth and Sassafras St., 9 p.m., Sherlocks, 508 Civil War Roundtable bers per class, all supplies Weds, April 3 135 West 7th St., $5/pp. Colony Pub & Grille, more information go to State St. For more infor- members, $40 non-mem- For more information, For more information vis- 2670 W. Eighth St. For oasispub.net, or visit face- Every 2nd Wednesday at provided. For more infor- bers. For more informa- call 871.7504. FILM at the Erie Art mation go to facebook. mation call 453-5072 or Museum presents: it gannon.edu. more information, call book.com/oasispuberie. com/sherlockspark-place, 7 p.m., First Presbyterian tion call 453-5072 or visit 838.2162. Vicious J Show Church of Meadville, 890 visit www.lifeworkserie. www.lifeworkserie.org. Thurs, Mar. 28 “Imposter” Sat, Mar. 23 or call 453.7760. org. Successful Seed Starting Fiction Writer Aimee 5 to 10:30 p.m., Bar- RadioActive Band Liberty St., For more in- EHCA’s Spring Swing 6 p.m. doors, 7 p.m. Erie Philharmonic Weds, Mar. 20 formation, call Tom at Parkison Reading at screening. Erie Art Mu- presents: Star Wars Funkin’ Gonuts Feat. low, Sparrows, Archway, 9 p.m., Oasis Pub, 3122 Kick Off Event 6 p.m., Whole Foods Co- Penn State Behrend Middle State, Spud Dog. 337.1966. op, 1241 W. 26th St., Free seum, 20 E. Fifth St., $5 and Beyond Born as DJ Shineomite West Lake Road. For JazzErie Discussion 5 to 8 p.m., The Brewerie 6 p.m., Opening recep- General Admission, To Basement Transmis- more information go to to sign up at Customer 7 p.m., Erie Philharmon- 10 p.m., the crooked sions, 1501 State St., $5, Group at Union Station, 123 W. Service. For more infor- tion at 5:30 p.m., Penn purchase tickets, visit: ic, 609 Walnut St., For i, 1013 State St., For oasispub.net, or visit face- 14th St., Free and open to State Behrend’s Larry www.brownpapertickets. For more information, go book.com/oasispuberie. Every 3rd Thursday at mation go to http://www. more information call more information, to facebook.com/base- Steve Neylon Show 7:30 p.m., Erie Art Mu- the public. For more in- wfcerie.coop. and Kathryn Smith Cha- com/event/324293. 455.1375 or visit eriephil. go to facebook.com/ formation, go to ehca.org. pel, 4701 College Dr., For ment.transmissions or seum Annex, 10 E. Fifth Open House at TREC Weds, April 3 org. thecrookedierie. basement-transmissions. 6:30 to 11 p.m., Basement St. For more information, more information, call March 20, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 19 grew stronger, and soon she was introduced to heroin. “That was like a touch of heaven, You Ought to Know: like God came down and touched me. That was the most beautiful feeling in the entire world,” she ex- plains in solemn voice. “I would do Mishol Randolph anything for that feeling.” Nearly a dozen overdoses en- sued – Mishol waking up in the hospital, livid with the doctors who By: Matthew Flowers next thing you know, I’m smoking weed, and pulled her away from a permanent then we were introduced to pills.” She’s refer- darkness. Mishol’s life turned into ring to the surge of diverted pharmaceuticals that a simple routine: 30 days in jail, a ix-thousand and twenty-eight little bricks swept through Pennsylvania - not excluding Erie failed stint in rehab, get high, back are stacked up around her. Like the dark - in the early 2000s. to the hospital, repeat – until finally water at the bottom of a well, she is sur- “We started selling them and making thou- the fog lifted over this mired cycle. rounded – save for a tiny pinhole window sands of dollars a week, so I dropped out of Now at the threat of going down to see the world. Inside, she sits on her spring- school,” she says, reflecting on her sophomore state – with a longer sentence – for Sless jail bed, skinny and weathered, like a small year of high school. There was money to be made repeatedly being caught selling sapling after a hard storm. And time is a frozen in this new-found trade, but it wasn’t long before drugs, as well as smuggling them stream, snaking slowly beneath a long thin crown curiosity got the best of her. “We’re like, ‘What into rehab, something clicked. of ice. Aside from the bland transitions between is the big deal about these pills?’ ‘cause these pills “I have a 5-year-old daughter,” institutionalized moments, she has nothing but were going for about $60 each.” Mishol says she screamed to the the gauze – just a few inches too short for morbid So with new shoes, a beat-up car, and an apart- judge. But what the judge said utility – mummifying her abscessed arms. And a ment, Mishol had a new sense of confidence that wouldn’t stop ringing in her head, Bible. came with a pining to indulge. “You didn’t care about her last For some, the Bible’s stack of pages become a “We tried them, and it was instantly heaven. week; why do you care about her From hell and back, Mishol Randolph book of truth, and for others, it’s simply a story It was a euphoria that I couldn’t explain. I was today?” is someone You Ought to Know. hooked,” she says. “And it was all downhill from After receiving sixty days in the there.” The apartment Mishol and her boyfriend hole – what seemed like an indefinite time to and center. Ascending from her mental faults, rented became a dangerous place; it was no lon- Mishol – she was given one phone call a week, she finally caught a glimpse of light, and as she ger a personal venue for adolescent mischief and a Bible, and surplus of time to think. “I called raised her head to feel the warmth, a blog was Mishol’s life turned young love, but a place for junkies, and the dregs home. It was Baelyn’s birthday and all she was started about her. The forum detailed her addic- of Erie to frequent. But despite new clientele, doing was crying for me, saying that she wanted tion, her lack of qualifications, and down right into a simple routine: the bills were stacking up, and to boot, Mishol me. And knowing that I have years until I can bashed Mishol coldheartedly. NBA security was was going to be fending for another person soon. even hold her,” Mishol says, edging towards tears. notified, and she received a call from them soon 30 days in jail, a “Honest to God, the day I found out I was preg- “I finally hit my rock bottom.” after. After she confirmed the sum of the allega- nant, I quit everything cold turkey.” When she returned to her quarters, there sat tions, her superiors were notified, but her merit failed stint in rehab, She packed her bags and left, fleeing for her the book of thin pages and a permanent snapshot and hard work saved her job. aunt’s house in her white Buick Century, the of Baelyn burned into her mind. She thought to While her past continues to haunt her, she is get high, back to the engine knocking to breathe. With help, Mishol herself, If nothing changes, nothing changes. She also moving forward into an amazing future. nipped the new habit in the bud, continuing her started reading the Bible, finding comfort in the She volunteers her time on the Board of Advi- hospital, repeat. pregnancy totally clean. scripture, and a euphoria that didn’t come from a sors at the Boys & Girls Club of Erie and has But things hadn’t even turned bad yet, Mishol needle. “I honestly don’t like religion – I’m more plans to start her own organization for women. insinuates, “The day I had [Baelyn] I had an spiritual,” she clarifies. “Religion has restrictions More recently and most notably she received a that can spark a guiding light out of the dark- epidural... They hit my spine. The next thing you on God.” call from Joi Gordon, CEO of Dress for Success. est times. However, there is another way to reach know, [the doctors are prescribing] me Vicodin.” After 60 days in the hole, she began going to Mishol went breathless as she was informed of heaven, and those who take this windy road never No longer a body worrying for two, Mishol church in jail, working out in the courtyard, and her invitation to the “Something to Share Gala” realize it takes a long detour. started taking pills again, turning reckless, and planning her future beyond her square stone at the Grand Hyatt in New York City as the Key- “I’ve been through hell,” Mishol Randolph says, going harder than ever. Surpassing what the doc- walls. Like Albert Einstein said, Insanity: doing note Speaker. The event is beyond huge – tick- sitting back in her chair. “So why not believe in tor’s prescriptions would allow, she took to the the same thing over and over again and expect- ets run $500 - and is attended by some of the a god?” Sitting in Dress for Success Erie, a small streets, finding what she needed and selling the ing different results. So when Mishol’s time was biggest names in every field: Vanessa Williams, white building on the corner of East 28th Street, rest to fuel her habit. through in jail, she was determined not to be part Bobbi Brown [CEO Bobbi Brown Cosmetics], Mishol is pretty and put together, and carries a Two of the many fallacies that plague addicts of the revolving door, and decided to interview at Cory Booker [Mayor of Newark, NJ], Chris certain air of success with her – which juxtaposes are the notions of vigilance and, in a different the Mercy Center for Women [1039 E. 27th St.], Canty [Baltimore Ravens Defensive Lineman], the story she tells from within the shop. The vein, egocentrism. It is when these two her first step in trying something different. Michael Phelps, Cindy Lieve [Editor-in-Chief, place is packed tight with professional women’s erroneous beliefs are reckoned with that tend to She started fresh, learning the life skills she Glamour], Amy Astley [Editor-in-Chief, Teen clothing; some new, some used, but all free for be the darkest hours. missed over the last near-decade. After the Vogue], and so many more. Mishol will go and the right persons in need of professional attire. “There was a moment where I got what I need- months past she was introduced to Mary Gra- represent not only Erie, but Dress for Success, by There is nothing about Mishol that could hint ed and I had some extra [Klonopin] in my coat ziano, the program director for Dress for Success speaking at the gala on April 11. towards her history: the people she’s run with, pocket.” She continues after a brief quiver. “My Erie and the Going Places Network presented by While she takes care of her little sister and the places she’s run to, or her tribulations upon daughter just started crawling around, and she Wal-mart. Through these organizations, Mishol daughter, Baelyn, in their new home, she lives by those stomping grounds. went in my coat pocket, and she digested the two was able to make connections that were sincere one simple rule, “If you can’t handle my past, you “My mom was a single woman [when I] was pills. I never will forget that moment where I’m and progressive. By working on the Junior Board don’t deserve to be in my future.” growing up and she drank a lot – she wasn’t holding her and I’m rushing her to the hospital for the Boys and Girls Club [1515 E. Lake Mishol’s determination has allowed her a sec- around a lot – so I could run riot,” she explains. and she’s just telling me that she wants to go to Road] she met Owen McCormick, the Owner of ond chance at life, one she took very seriously. With the house empty, there were no rules or sleep… It was the most terrifying moment of my the Erie BayHawks, and was able to land a job as She has risen from the refuse of her addiction, restrictions. In combination with being the ste- entire life.” an account executive. forded the dragging currents of crime, to now reotypically ambitious, adventurous, and aggres- Baelyn was given charcoal at the hospital, and But even with the past behind her, she wasn’t find herself standing in the light she used to sive first-born, it wasn’t long before Mishol found fortunately came out of the ordeal unscathed. But out of the clear yet. watch fade from behind a barred window. herself greeting trouble with open arms. Mishol had a different outcome. Some were unhappy with Mishol’s newfound “He was a bad boy, and that attracted me,” she “I spent the night, [and] woke up to Children’s success. They even went as far as to email her co- Matthew Flowers can be contacted at mFlowers@ says about her high-school sweetheart and father Services tell me I had to leave the hospital with- workers and attach a copy of an article of Erie ErieReader.com, and you can follow him on Twitter to her now 7-year-old daughter Baelyn. “The out my daughter.” At rock bottom, Mishol’s habit County’s Most Wanted, with her name front @MFlowersER. 20 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com March 20, 2013 [Cont. from 11] JW: Bad romantic comedies they ever did – which I’m not going to give away JW: I have a fax machine still, and I’ll tell you [laughs]. because it’s in my show – I’ll tell you the best one when it comes in handy – when the power goes A lot of things shock me right now – that re- if you come to see my show. The second best one out. It’s the only line that works. Every once in a views don’t matter anymore. You can get all ter- they had was when Justin Bieber had those peo- while I’ll still use it. rible reviews and be the number one movie in ple who wanted to castrate him and they caught CV: And when you come to Edinboro, will you America, which, I believe happened this week them, and the headline was “Just Nuts.” be hitchhiking to the venue? with that Oz movie. Good for them! I’m happy CV: I love it. Speaking of nuts, I love North JW: No, I won’t be. But if I had to, I always they know how to pull it off; I wish I knew how Korea. They almost seem like some sort of fantas- know I could. to pull it off [laughs]. tical creation from one of your movies. But the things that shock me – it doesn’t mean JW: Who’s the dead one? John Waters will perform his “This Filthy World” show on I like them. That’s the difference – I wasn’t try- CV: Kim Jong Il. Thursday, April 4 in the Louis C. Cole Memorial Audito- ing to shock people, I was trying to make them JW: He loved American musicals. I bet he rium on the campus of Edinboro University of Pennsyl- laugh. But at the same time, now all the Hol- loved “Hairspray.” vania. The show is for mature audiences. The doors open lywood movies try to shock you. I guess I tried CV: I would imagine; his western tastes were at 7:30 p.m.; the performance begins at 8:30. Because to shock people when there were still taboos left well-known – whiskey, the Chicago Bulls… tickets are free for Edinboro University of Pennsylvania that you couldn’t do, and that’s what my whole JW: I always wanted him to be Wilbur and we students, this show will most certainly sell out; purchase career was all about – making fun of those taboos. could get an Edna over there and they could do yours for $10 at www.EdinboroTickets.com now, or risk Today, Hollywood wants to do that. So I think “Timeless to Me.” So yes, North Korea, they just being turned away the night of the show. it’s kind of old hat, just to try to be shocking. had that Dennis… And it’s never funny – well, sometimes it is. “The CV: Yeah, Rodman. Hangover” was funny; “Bridesmaids” was funny, JW: Yes, they just had him over there. I love that other bridesmaids movie was funny – what reading about them; I’m just glad I don’t live was that called? – that was funny too; there are there. two of them. CV: Rodman’s supposed to be going on vaca- CV: But it’s not just Hollywood, is it? Even tion with Kim Jong Un this summer. down to the small screen, do you think reality JW: Oh God. That’s like Gerard Depardieu television shows are somehow related to, or de- moving to Russia; maybe they all deserve it. scended from your work? CV: So tell us what we can expect from the JW: I think they are the show. exact opposite. JW: You can expect fash- They ask you to feel supe- "I guess I tried to shock ion, true crime, celebrities, rior to the people in them, movies, theater, journalism, to make fun of them, to look people when there were amusement parks, how to down on them; they’re clas- still taboos left that you open your own theater – I sist, whereas mine asked you think it’s a self-help lecture to look up to the subject mat- couldn’t do, and that’s for people – for minorities ter, be amazed at their taste. what my whole career who don’t even fit in their I’m secretly in awe of the was all about – making own minority but have a people I make movies about; good sense of humor. I don’t however, I always say to the fun of those taboos. want to limit my audience, ones who are watching reality Today, Hollywood wants but that would be my core TV, “the people who are in it audience. get paid, and you’re wasting to do that. So I think it’s Today, parents bring me your time, so who’s the dumb kind of old hat, just to their f---ed-up kids, if you one?” want to know the truth. And I mean, I haven’t seen it, but try to be shocking." that’s amazing to me. It’s like, I like Honey Boo Boo better I’m their last-ditch effort to than the "Kadashians" or whatever their names bond with them, and that’s kind of touching. are. CV: Hey, that’s great, you know; it must be so CV: It’s tragic, like all the horror stories in the much more meaningful to know that your work news on a daily basis that desensitize us to their has an impact on peoples’ lives like that. tragedy. Do you think any of them are funny, like JW: But when I was young, the parents called I do, or am I the only one? the cops on my work. So it’s gotten better. JW: Today the New York Post’s headline was CV: Do you recall ever coming to this area be- – you know, the cannibal was convicted, the one fore? You’re going to be in Edinboro, but Erie is that had all the fantasies…wait a minute, I have the “big city” around these parts. to ask Susan [his assistant]. The headline’s really JW: Yeah, I came in the ‘50s; my parents had funny, hold on. friends who lived there. I’ve been doing these CV: I will. talks for 40 years; I might have been there, like [26 seconds pass] at a college, but if I have, it hasn’t been for a long JW: I can’t find it. Hold on one minute. She’s time. coming up the steps. It’s a really funny headline CV: This is kind of a big thing for us; we don’t about the cannibal. Hold on. often get well-known, serious artists through CV: All right. here. Although this area is more progressive than [10 seconds pass] most, we can still be a bit of a cultural backwater. JW: Yes, it’s “Chopped Liver.” JW: What I’ve learned is, the people who come CV: Well done, Post, well done. see me, there’s cool people wherever you go, even JW: Are they funny? They’re horrible. But it’s if it’s not a progressive place – because of the In- gallows humor, and the New York Post is the best ternet. You don’t have to leave home to be cool place to read about them – just don’t read their anymore. That’s a radical concept. When I was editorials. young, if you didn’t go to New York or L.A., you CV: There was just a headline about that gang could never see movies – you couldn’t see any- rape in India that referred to it as a “murder- thing, really. Now, everybody sees everything in cum-rape.” one second. JW: Ohhhhhhhh no. The very best headline CV: No more fax machines. March 20, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 21 lenge, give the ol’ Double- Vegetarian Triple Bypass, which packs on three all-beef patties, Whole Foods Café Offer- ham, salami, pepperoni, ing a wide variety of vegetar- capicola, provolone, and ian staples, including wraps, American cheese all on one sandwiches, soups, pizza, ERIE’S EATS hoagie roll, a try. and seasonal specialties. 24 N. Park Row // 455.1072 1341 W. 26th St. // 456-0282 up some of Erie’s more // 734.3400 French Japanese won’t break the bank but American Fusion unique breakfast and lunch will definitely stretch your Suds and Grub Bertrand’s Bisttro Sushi and Asian Cuisine Avanti’s If you’ve only options. Their breakfast Brewpub A belt. U Pick 6 Tap House Great eaten breakfast at Avanti’s, burrito is a must-try, but menu featuring local meats Fresh sushi and sashimi Buffalo Wild Wings Brewerie Erie’s only brew- and vegetables and organ- steal the spotlight of this 2709 W. 12th St. // 835.2290 beer meets great food at the you are in for a big surprise. be sure to check in for fresh and 4236 Peach St. // daily specials. on-premise pub and eatery, ic and Kosher ingredients show but their support- corner of Fourth and State Fourteen original sauces and Every Thursday, Friday, and 860.8187 and 4459 Buffalo loads of televisions make Saturday night, this daytime the Brewerie is on a mission when possible. The crepes ing cast shouldn’t go unno- Rd. // 898.1531 streets. From gourmet flat- 2605 Washington Ave. // to, “Revitalize Downtown and award-winning wine ticed. The Kim Chi is a breads to pizza muffins, BWW a great place to meet diner changes over to a Moe’s With friendly staff 452.2500 Erie One Pint at a Time.” selection are more than great place to start and any there’s plenty of great grub friends for the big game. fine dining establishment. Jo’s Brooklyn Bagels A serving up fresh, made-to- Full bar menu available. Check back often since enough to encourage a trip of the noodle choices make to pair with the endless flow walk through the door says 123 W. 14th St. // 454.2200 order southwest fare, Moe’s of over 20 microbrews on the menu changes weekly. to France via downtown for good choices to contin- Interchange Road it all. Well, at least it’s speak- is a great place for quality, tap. And with helpful serv- BYOB Erie. ue on. With veggie-friendly on-the-go Mexican food. (Across from Milcreek Mall) ing to your noise. Inhale Carribean options and a staff happy to ers who know their beer, 18 N. Park Row // 871.6477 868.9464 1662 W. 8th St. // 456.3096 deeply and breathe in those 2052 Edinboro Rd. this is a great place to come Pineapple Eddie South- serve you, Sushi and Asian Odis 12 aromas. Fresh bagels and (Outside Millcreek Mall) to try the beers you’ve never Award-winning Summer House Café With ern regional cuisine served Gastropubs Cuisine is a must. wings and affordable sit- an ever-changing menu and coffee. What’s not to love 459.2121 had but have always want- about that combination? A up with a bit of caribbean 1014 State St. //455.0596 down dining. Odis 12 lots of fresh baked good- flair. Featuring savory dish- Jeckyl & Hydes - Just like ed to. little piece of Brooklyn right Aoyama Think it’s hard Middle Eastern features over 100 differ- ies, this local favorite serves here in Erie. es like Creole shrimp and the title characters—wait, 333 State St. // 520.5419 ent flavors, including the breakfast and lunch daily andouille sausage over grits, character—this gastropub to find a daily sushi bar Casablanca From tradi- Six Pack House of Beer crowd-favorite “ugly cous- and stays open for dinner 833 W. 38th St. // 520.6246 seared catfish served with seems bent on being two in Erie? Find your way to Aoyama for the hibachi tional to modern reci- With an ever-changing line- in.” Thursday, Friday, and Satur- Peggy’s Restaurant A rice and beans and fresh things at once—and that’s pes, from strictly vegetari- up of brews on tap and cool- day. BYOB sauteed vegetables, and a good thing. While the experience combined with 664 W. 26th St. // 452.6347 landmark in the Liberty an extensive sashimi and an meals to meals centered er wall of six-packs to go, Plaza for a few decades now, grilled Angus Rib Eye steak. seating area is small, which around a choice selection Greengarden Tavern 2605 Washington Ave. // sushi menu. You’ll have the Six Pack also serves up some Classic corner bar atmo- 452.2500 Peggy’s serves up quick, Deserts include grilled makes for a cozy experience, of fresh meat, Casablan- cheap eats to boot. pound cake served w/fresh the tastes are big and bold. choice between hibachi- sphere, great prices, excel- 1201 Kitchen affordable meals and plen- ca Grille looks to provide Featuring glazed pineapple, ice cream style seating and the tradi- 847 Pitt. Ave. // 454.1989 lent wings. Honey-hot Latin/Asian-inspired food, ty of room for conversa- 8 E. 10th St. // 456.0072 tional sit-down dining expe- something for everyone tion. You can sit at the long and rum sauce, and luscious looking for a good Moroc- U Pick 6 Beer Store Off barbecue and cranch are this hip downtown spot lime layer cake. BYOB. rience, so your mood can do standouts. Go Browns! is full of great art, and the counter than spans nearly Irish the choosing for you. Reser- can meal—and the diversi- the downtown beaten path, marble bar is a perfect place the entire restaurant, grab a 1402 W. 10th St. // 454.0700 vations are highly suggested. ty’s a good thing too since U Pick 6 takes pride in its 1543 W. 8th St. // 454.3367 booth upfront, or get a table when it comes to Middle revolving draft beer line- to try their fresh sushi. With Molly Brannigans - Got Park Tavern – Known for a menu that changes every in the back. Chinese a hankering for bangers and 970 Millcreek Mall // East Mediterranean cuisine, up. With some quick eats 868.7999 Casablanca is it. Reserva- and sandwiches sliced up its wings, the Park Tavern four to six weeks, be sure to 3512 Liberty St. // 866.3216 mash? Have no idea what boasts a family-friendly Golden Wok Quality the heck bangers and mash Hibachi From flinging tions are recommended. right in front of you, U check in often. The Breakfast Place Low smoke-free environment. ingredients, affordable pric- is? Head to this authentic shrimp to slinging steak, Pick 6 draws you in for the Try some Herbies or crispy 1201 State St. // 464.8989 prices and big portions-- es, and consistent service Hibachi combines dinner 2174 W. 8th St. // 452.4544 beer and keeps you for the just the way Erie likes it! The Irish gastropub where you Palm Market and Deli Cajuns. Buffalo Cajun is Under the Clock - Locat- make this Chinese restau- can get your fill of Irish- with the show without conversation. also recommended. Cajun eggs are a must-try. rant stand out among the service charges or ticket fees. This authentic Arabic ed in the historic Boston fare and Irish drinks. From 7520 Peach St. // 866.2337 Store, Under the Clock 2340 E. 38th St. // 825.2727 rest. Jameson to Guinness, from If you’re fine with sitting market and eatery offers 4205 E. Lake Road // is reviving the old phrase beside your date instead of delicious, freshly prepared 899.8661 Panos Open late night with 3202 Pitt. Ave. // 836.9657 Shepherd’s Pie to Purcell’s Steakhouse “Let’s meet under the an attentive wait staff who Fish and Chips, Molly across from him or her, opt food and baked goods for clock.” With a “sophisticat- for this straight-off the grill a very reasonable price. The Sweet Treats will never let your coffee Delicatessens Brannigans brings the Irish Sensory 3 Next time you’re ed casual”-style restaurant pub to downtown Erie. without time-to-chill dinner market offers a wide variety mug go empty. Try the at Presque Isle Downs & Mighty Fine Donuts If experience, Under the Clock famous Greek omelet. Teresa’s Italian Deli experience. of exotic food and merchan- Casino, take a break from 506 State St. // 453.7800 dise. you love donuts and are offers lunch and dinner 3000 W. 12th St. // 838.2495 the table games and check menus with something for 1504 W. 38th St. // 866.0517 Teresa’s Deli has been a McGarrey’s Oakwood looking for something staple in Erie for over 60 2702 Parade St. out this bar and grille If off the well-worn path to everyone. The steak salad Café Known for the award- Mediterranean you’re cashing in your chips is a must-try for any self- Sidewalk Cafe Tucked years, and it’s no secret why. winning Reuben, McGar- Dunkin’ Donuts and Krispy away on historic North Now in its third generation, Pizza for fine dining, we bet on Kreme, this local gem is respecting carnivore. Look- rey’s believes in big portions Petra Open since 2004, Park Row, you’ll find one of the Theresa’s staff still makes being satisfied by a fine your destination spot. ing for something lighter? of comfort food served up Petra serves as Erie’s window Papa Joe’s With special- downtown’s popular break- the food fresh every day, steak since Sensory 3 serves Heralded by locals as the Try their seared ahi tuna. hot and fresh. Although to the Eastern Mediterra- ty pizzas ranging from up some of the best cuts in fast and lunch places. following the same scratch Irish in name, McGarrey’s nean. The folks at Petra want “Vegan Demise” to “Chick- best donuts ever 101 Boston Store Place // recipes used since 1949. the area. 454.4700 also dishes out American you to have “a unique culi- en Gorgonzola” and subs 2612 Parade St. // 455.6408 26 N. Park Row // 455.0002 8199 Perry Hwy // 866.8359 3201 Greengarden Blvd. // and Italian cuisine so that nary experience.” And with that go by the names of Romolo Chocolates George’s American With retro decor 864.5322 and 810 E. 38th St. you’re bound to find some- Mediterranean-inspired “Enchanted Eggplant” and Colony Pub & Grille – Tony Stefanelli apprenticed trimmed in red and black, // 459.1145 thing satisfying. items on the menu you’re “Chuck Norris,” Papa Joe’s Multiple fireplaces and three with his family in the choc- lymouth avern George’s is known just as P T An Erie Picasso’s With signature 1624 W. 38th St. // 866.0552 unlikely to find anywhere brings more to the table intimate dining rooms make olate business for nearly 20 institution with great food much for looking like a panini-style sandwiches like else, this is a one of a kind than any commercial pizza the Colony a popular spot years. Where’d that get him? and drink specials every retro diner as it is for the the Lee Roslyn (Twinkie, Italian dining experience. joint. And to boot, they for a romantic dinner. He’s one of only 26 master night of the week. friendly safe and great grub. serve up a mean falafel ham, and cheese) and the 3602 W. Lake Road // confectioners and he’s right They’re famous for their DaVinci (sausage, ravioli, Alto Cucina Chef Pat sandwich—something that’s 2670 W. 8 St. // 838.2162 1109 State St. // 453.6454 mashed potatoes, but don’t 838.7197 here in Erie. So for hand- and provolone), Picasso’s is Rodgers mixes the old- a must. Ricardo’s Opened in 1943 made pieces of chocolate, be Pufferbelly Set in a get stuck on only that. Try a must-try. Great vegetarian world with the exotic. Beau- by two brothers, Ricardo’s decommissioned firehouse, the soups and sandwiches Mexican 3826 W. Ridge Rd. // sure to stop by Romolo’s— options available. tiful décor, with an outdoor 835.3360 serves up some of Erie’s then boast to your out-of- the Pufferbelly is full of arti- on for size too. deck for the summer El Toro Loco With a full finest steaks. Chef Peter Valerio’s town friends about having a facts from Erie’s fire fight- 2060 Interchange Rd. months. bar and the best margaritas More than just West and Cathy Merk- 2614 Glenwood Park Avenue (Outside Millcreek Mall) Pizza, Wings, and Subs! master confectioner in your ing past. // 455.0860 in town, there is something si run one of Erie’s choice 866.1183 3531 W. Lake Road // Local Italian Restaurant & city. 414 French St. // 454.1557 Dominick’s Famous among 835.3900 for everyone. Enjoy a little restaurants that’s known Tickle’s Deli – This popu- Pizzeria that has been serv- 1525 W. 8th St. // 452.1933 Calamari’s Extra-long bar, Erie’s late-night bar patrons taste of Mexico right here in for its hand-cut, grain-fed Colao’s Authentic Italian, ing Erie County for over Pulakos with a large outdoor patio who swear by this place as a lar deli features good pric- downtown Erie. western beef and delicious, George P. Pula- es and big, tasty sandwiches fresh seafood, and a cozy, 17 years. Offering a vari- mouth-watering ribs cooked kos opened his first choco- for those warm summer sure-fire hangover cure. intimate setting. 333 State St. // 454.5626 ety of Homemade Italian nights. including the famous “Big outside year-round. Hearty late shop at 926 State St. in 123 E. 12th St. // 456.6891 Freddy.” Call ahead if you Latino’s With fresh ingre- Dinners, Seafood, Daily 1903. Over a hundred years 2826 Plum St. // 866.9621 Lunch Specials, and Cater- Italian fare with casual feel 1317 State St. // 459.4276 Hyatt’s - Serving up break- can because this downtown dients and a commitment of fine dining make Ricar- later, the fourth-generation- Mi Scuzi Southern Italian to serving up the authentic ing Services. Check out fast and lunch standards for hotspot gets busy at lunch- cuisine with fresh, home- do’s a must. run chocolate shop is still Barbecue years and is a staple in the time. Mexican-cuisine experience, our menus online at www. one of Erie’s favorite plac- made pasta. Latinos is the place to go for valeriospizzeria.com. With 2112 E. Lake Rd // 455.4947 es for a wide selection of West Erie Plaza. 17 W. 4th St. // 455.5718 Three-B Saloon Beer, 2641 Myrtle St. // 454.4533 more than just the average 3 convenient locations to Victor’s –Located inside all things chocolate—and Bacon & Barbeque—the 928 W. Erie Plaza // 456.0102 Gerry’s 8th Street Deli serve you, we’ll have you Amici Ristorante Tex-Mex experience. The the Bel-Aire hotel, Victor’s other delicious snacks too. name says it all. Featur- From the world-class deli With singing...Manga Italiano! Flip Cafe place isn’t flashy, but with offers fine steak and seafood ing slow-cooked brisket, Tired of the to the homemade soups, dinner hours from 5 to 9 2530 Parade St. chain restaurant dishing out p.m. Fridays and Saturdays food this good, it doesn’t 2179 W. 32nd St. // 833- with drink specials every Donut Connection ribs, and other down-home breakfast by the numbers? Gerry’s offers everything and a takeout menu avail- have to be. 2979 and 1803 E. 38th St. night of the week. - Just favorites. If you behave Then try this sweet little you’d expect from a deli. able Monday through Satur- 825-2693 and 724 Powell off the corner of Peach and yourself, you may get a free But with sandwich names 1315 Parade St. // 452.1966 833-8884 // Catering Office// 2800 W. 8 St. // 833.1116 Liberty streets sits a fami- spot tucked away in Edin- day, Amici Ristorante dishes El Canelo With three 866-3193 slice of bacon with your boro. Flip Cafe serves break- like “Cluckmeister,” “Chive out fresh food at affordable ly-owned donut shop that’s beer. Turkey,” “Tongue Fu,” and locations to serve the great- Steel 12 Jonesing for some Thai celebrating its Golden fast and lunch from morn- “Breast of Times” just to prices. From wings to pizza er-Erie area, you’re never Anniversary this year. With 732 W. 4th St. // 451.0007 ing ‘til afternoon, so stop in to fresh perch sandwich- Pittsburgh eats but don’t Khao Thai The only full- name a few, you’re going to more than a 15 minute have four hours to kill on the “best coffee” in town and try any one of the favor- es and more, the menu drive from all the chips and time Thai restaurant in Erie. Breakfast ites, including “Flip Bread.” want to keep going back to has something for every- a roundtrip just for some Luckily, it’s fantastic! Try the and a wide selection of deli- check out all of these one- salsa you can handle served grub? Hit up this Peach- cious hand-cut donuts, this You won’t pay much and one. Call ahead one hour up with sizzling fajitas, drunken noodles for a spicy Summer House Cafe Open you’ll go home happy think- of-a-kind sandwiches. Deli for takeout since food is Street eat for fries on your delight. Vegetarian friend- is a great place for a for a from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. hours run Monday through hand-wrapped enchiladas sandwich and a pizza crust ly. BYOB sweet treat. ing about coming back Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. prepared fresh per order. and burritos, and a whole each day of the week, the again. that can’t be beat. But if yinz 3842 Liberty St. // 864.8702 1518 Walnut St. // 455.0041 lot more. The Super Crab 36 N. Park Row // 454.4069 Summer House Cafe serves 2620 W. 8th St. // 836.8702 are really looking for a chal- 103 Meadville St. Edinboro Quesadilla is a must-try that 22 | Erie Reader | eriereader.com March 20, 2013 March 20, 2013 eriereader.com | Erie Reader | 23 WIN FROM $150 IN FREE PLAY FREE TO $1,000 CASH! Fridays in March 3pm - 10pm HISRAY MUSIC LIVES ON 10x entries!

A CELEBRATION OF Saturday, April 20 Sunday, March 31 at 7am 9pm at the Clubhouse First 500 guests in the Buffet on Sunday, March 31 will receive an Easter Egg stuffed with prizes!

GET IN ON IT ALL I-90 Exit 27, Erie PA | presqueisledowns.com | 1.866.ERIE.FUN If You or Someone You Know Has a Gambling Problem, Help is Available. Call 1-800-GAMBLER.