April 11, 2014
A Byrd’s Eye View N
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ABOUT MOVIES, TV, ARTS AND EVENTS IN THE VALLEY
Captain America: The Winter Solider Takes Action To Another Level
A Quote By
By Art Byrd Captain America has been an icon in the comic book world forever. So, Marvel Studios has had to tread lightly with him. In his first appearance, Captain America: The First Avenger, we saw how Captain America came to be. At the end of the movie, Captain America thought he was still in the 40’s but he was being tricked. Actually, he had been frozen for several decades and received a rude awakening that he was in modern times. Then, came The Avengers where Captain America had to learn to play and fight with others. In Captain America: The Winter Solider, Captain American aka Steve Rogers played by Chris Evans is still adjusting to the way of a modern world which has taken on a fear mentality towards threats. He and S.H.I.E.L.D director, Nick Fury have a slight difference of opinion on how the world should defend itself. Fury believes in neutralizing the threat before it can happen and Cap wants to go after the threat head on.
“Being a movie star is a quality that somebody sort of embodies, and being a celebrity is something that people give to you. It has to do with being recognizable, as opposed to something that people recognize in you. I just hope to make good movies. I know that sounds simple, but it's true.” Actress Scarlett Johansson, who plays Black Widow in Captain America: The Winter Solider in theaters now
April 11, 2014
The movie is full of action like a ship rescue of hostages involving Black Widow, who is almost a mainstay in Marvel movies played amazingly by Scarlett Johansson. The rescue was great with Cap using his fighting skill and mastery of his shield to kick some bad guy butt. I enjoyed the introduction of Anthony Mackie as war veteran Sam Wilson aka The Falcon. His Falcon outfit was awesome as he glided in the sky taking out bad guys. Samuel L. Jackson as Fury is always high powered. He has a more active role in this movie that the other Marvel movies. Something happens with Fury, which I will not give away, but I caught by surprise by it. There are always a main villain in a superhero movie but this was different as we didn’t know who the real villain was until later. The Winter Solider played by Sebastian Stan as a villain, we know that is evil but his backstory leads the audience to have some sympathy for him.
Robert Redford as Nick Fury’s boss, who thought he had one, Alexander Pierce was interesting as you thought you could trust him but as the movie moved along, I wasn’t sure. One thing, I wondered about was Peggy Carter who played the love interest for Captain America in the first movie. I felt she was left behind. In this movie, she is still alive, bedridden as she talks with Cap about things. That was a nice scene. There was a lot of destruction and good action happening throughout the movie. A great directing job by Anthony and Joe Russo, who are from Cleveland. A lot of the action sequences in the movie were filmed in Cleveland. An interesting twist was that S.H.I.E.L.D was not the agency that everyone thought it was and was controlled by a higher power. There are lots of questions unanswered which sets up the next Captain America movie. For right now, get to a theatre and see Captain America: The Winter Solider. The superhero in you will thank you.
April 11, 2014
Chef Peng Does Chinese Right By Monnie Ryan
"The most beautiful adventures are not those we go to seek." An intriguing quote, to be sure, but more on that later. One snowy night last winter, our friends Jerry and Barb asked us to join them at a Youngstown restaurant. Just as we started out, we ran smack dab into driving snow and instantly decided not to push our luck that far. Well, Jerry said, is anyone up for Chinese? Sure, we agreed, so he pointed the car toward Chef Peng Chinese Restaurant. Since that fateful night, we’ve been back several more times simply because the food is outstanding. On a recent visit, the four of us started with soup. Only won ton can be purchased by the cup ($1.75); crab meat corn, hot and sour and a couple of others are sold only in large bowls starting at $3.95. The won ton was filled with dumplings and other "stuff" I didn't bother to write down, and my hot and sour had the usual tang, though a bit less than at other oriental restaurants. Never having tried it before, we all dug into the huge bowl of creamy crab meat corn, which was delicious. We then decided to splurge on appetizers to be shared: Crab Meat Rangoon (eight for $3.95), Beef Teriyaki (two skewers for $2.95) and steamed dumplings (six for $4.50). The Rangoon -- little folded handkerchieflike pastries filled with a crab meat-cream cheese mixture -- were especially delicious. The dumplings were tender and wrapped around tiny balls of sausage; the dipping sauce was cold and lightly spiced with what we suspected was ginger.
Our entrees also were picked with an eye on sharing (sorry, Martha, but we're among friends here; sticking our forks in each others' food is permissible, at least within reason). Our choices included Mongolian Chicken with steamed rice (large portion at $8.25), Sweet and Sour Shrimp ($7.50), Orange Chicken ($6.95) and for me, spicy Szechuan Chicken ($6.50, ordered extra spicy).
Once our entrees arrived, our forks were flying right and left. Our collective favorite was the Orange Chicken -- a wonderful dish we'd order again in a heartbeat. The Mongolian Chicken was a close second, a huge mound of chicken with grilled, thinly sliced onions. As for the Szechuan chicken, it wasn’t even close to what I'd call "hot" -- but since I'd made my choice knowing I wouldn't have to share I kept it to myself (hey, my mama didn't raise a fool). When we got to the requisite fortune cookies, most of the advice was ho-hum, except for the one with which I started this review: "The most beautiful adventures are not those we go to seek." No, we didn't "seek out" Chef Peng's, but we sure didn’t let grass grow under our feet before we went back again! If you go: Chef Peng Chinese Restaurant 517 N. Main St. Niles, Ohio 44446 Open Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Saturday Noon to 9:30 p.m.; closed Sunday.
April 11, 2014
Bing and Bob: Thanks for the Memories By Monnie Ryan 4 stars out of 5 I'm old enough to have accumulated lots of memories of Bing Crosby and Bob Hope, starting when I was very young and my mother walked me a dozen or so blocks to the only movie theater in our small town for Saturday matinees. Crosby, who was rated "the most admired man alive" in 1948 (when I was 7 years old), was starring in movies at that time. "The Bells of St. Mary's," which I remember watching with mom, was made in 1945 but probably didn't make it to my neck of the southwestern Ohio backwoods for a couple of years after that. We moved to a nearby farm when I was in third grade, and with nothing better to do, I remember putting a couple of my dad's old Crosby 78s on the turntable and singing along at the top of my lungs; my favorite was the "The Iowa Indian Song:/'Way Back Home" with Fred Warning and His Pennsylvanians released in 1949. When I was in seventh grade, we got a TV set - a tiny black-and-white screen with rabbit ears - and dad, mom and I watched movies starring Crosby and his buddy, comedian Bob Hope, most notably the "Road" series that started back in 1940 with "The Road to Singapore." Later in life, when I married and moved to the northeastern part of Ohio, Hope became of more special interest since he grew up in Cleveland, about an hour away. And by then, we had lived through various TV specials and national golf tournaments featuring and/or sponsored by one or the other. In fact, I enjoyed it and learned plenty. The authors, a group of editors from Harvard University and MIT, do jump around a bit - transition isn't a strong point. But the book is full of interesting facts about both men - some I already knew and many more I did not. I knew, of course, that both Crosby and Hope were golfers, and both hosted national tournaments that continue to this day. I didn't know that Crosby played his first game somewhere around 1930 while he was filming "King of Jazz" and subsequently got so good that he entered tournaments with a 2 handicap. I also didn't realize he was part owner of the Pittsburgh Pirates (a little over an hour's drive from where I live), or that he sold an estimated 500 million records in the 20th century. One of his most popular songs, Irving Berlin's "White Christmas," is listed in the Guiness record book as the best-selling single of all time (which may in part be attributed to the fact that it was released in 1942 and re-released every year for the next 16). And while I'd heard Crosby referred to as "Der Bingle" many times, I had no idea why; after reading this book, I know (but I won't spoil it for you here). Hope, meanwhile, was born in England under the name of Leslie Townes Hope; he didn't change his first name to Bob until much later. When he reached his milestone 100th birthday, more than half of the U.S. states declared it "Bob Hope Day" in his honor; after all, he had made so many USO tours that Congress named him the "First and only honorary veteran of the U.S. armed forces." In between, he enjoyed a successful career that included everything from vaudeville to radio to motion pictures to television. To put it in perspective time-wise, in 1978 he putted on stage with a then two-year-old Tiger Woods. This book isn't likely to mean much to those who aren't familiar with these two entertainment legends; but if you remember them as I do, it's well worth the couple of hours it takes to read. Bing Crosby and Bob Hope: The Golden Era of Hollywood's Most Popular Show Business Stars by Charles River
April 11, 2014
What’s Happening Around the The Valley: April 12-16 Saturday, April 12 300 Sisters in Red 300 Sisters in Red is a free community outreach program designed for minority women taking place in YSU’s Kilcawley Center. The overarching topic is managing stress. The day includes health screenings, speakers, massages, yoga, door prizes and informational displays. Keynote speaker is Dr. Maryann Echols, psychologist, who will discuss managing stress to prevent risk factors and control health issues. Other speakers for break-out sessions include Jaison C. Boyd, training body and mind to reach full potential; Dr. Kathleen Padgitt, fighting inflammation the drug-free way; Dr. Ayla Ahmed Kessler, breast cancer from screening to survivorship; and Dr. Kellie Kirksey, holistic healing: discovery of the healing mind, body and spirit. Free parking is available in YSU’s M-2 deck, entering from Fifth Avenue. 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free. Kilcawley Center, University Plaza at Elm Street on YSU,
Classic Restaurants of Youngstown Presentation The Brier Hill Cultural Center will host a talk by Thomas Welsh, co-author of the newly released book, “Classic Restaurants of Youngstown.” Welsh will share highlights from the book, which provides a historical overview of the city’s restaurant industry, moving from 1945 to the present. Signed copies of the book will be available for purchase at the event, which is part of the BHCC’s monthly Brier Hill Breakfast Series. Admission is $5, which includes refreshments. Secure parking is available on site. T he Brier Hill Cultural Center (formerly St. Casimir Church) was established to perpetuate the memory of the Polish immigrants who organized the former parish, to serve as a venue to celebrate the community’s diverse cultures and traditions, and to play an integral role in the revitalization of the historic Brier Hill neighborhood and 422 Corridor. Brier Hill Cultural Center is at 145 Jefferson St. in Youngstown
Youngstown Easter Egg Hunt Youngstown is having its annual Easter Egg Hunt for children from 1 to 12 at Wick Park on city’s Northside. The egg hunt begins at noon. Children will be grouped by age with staggered start times. Children should be accompanied by a responsible adult. The first 200 children registered will receive a goodie bag. Children should bring their own basket and dress for the weather. 11 a.m.-1 p.m . Free. YSU Greek Sing YSU Greek Sing will fill Stambaugh Auditorium as YSU’s fraternities and sororities perform in this musical competition, which features serious and humorous performances at 6:30 p.m. Free. Stambaugh Auditorium is located at 1000 Fifth, Youngstown
April 11, 2014
What’s Happening Around the The Valley: April 12-16 (cont’d) Saturday, April 12 Rollin – Four Symphonic Lyrics for Soprano and Orchestra on an Ancient Greek Poem Rollin – Four Symphonic Lyrics for Soprano and Orchestra on an Ancient Greek Poem by Anacreo will happen at De Yor Center at 8 p.m. De Yor Center is at 260 W. Federal St. in downtown Youngstown Sunday April 13 YSU Recital The Dana School of Music presents a free recital, featuring saxophonist James Umble, percussionist Glenn Schaft, and members of the Cleveland Symphony Orchestra at 4 p.m. in the Bliss Recital Hall, on the campus of Youngstown State University. More information about this free recital is available at (330) 941-3636. Dahlia Tuber Sale Dahlia Tuber Sale blooms at Fellows Riverside Gardens. The Mahoning Valley Dahlia Society will hold a sale at Fellows Riverside Gardens. Discover unique varieties that will add to the diversity of a dahlia collection. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Fellows Riverside Gardens, 123 McKinley Ave., Youngstown; 330-740-7116. Medical Advancements of the Civil War Medical Advancements of the Civil War will be presented at the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library. This presentation by Dr. Peter D’Onofrio, president of the Society of Civil War Surgeons, explains those advances and their impact on the subsequent development of American medicine. D’Onofrio will be dressed in period military uniform and portray Robert Nelson Barr, who was the 4th Surgeon General for the State of Ohio during the Civil War. He will speak to the audience as if they are the County Soldiers’ Aid Society, and the time period will be one year after the end of the war. 2 p.m. Free. Warren-Trumbull County Public Library at the Main Library at 444 Mahoning Ave. NW, Warren. Ballroom Dance Ballroom Dance will step out at the Orthodox Hall at 5 p.m. $5 USA Dance members, $10 nonmembers, $2.50 students. Orthodox Hall is at 1025 N. Belle Vista Ave in Youngstown.
April 11, 2014
What’s Happening Around the The Valley: April 12-16 (cont’d) Tuesday April 15 Mahoning County Computer Club Mahoning County Computer Club will meet at the Canfield Presbyterian Church. Many computer related subjects are discussed. Visitors are welcome. Every third Tuesday. 7-9 p.m. For more information call 330-757-9854 or 330-799-1676. Canfield Presbyterian Church is at 104 Main St., Canfield; Wednesday April 16 Photography: How to Take Better Pictures Photography: How to Take Better Pictures takes place at the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library in Cortland. Guest speaker Richard States will present a slide show demonstrating his tips and advice about how to take better pictures. States is a retired high school horticulture educator and is an award-winning photographer. No reservations required. 6 p.m. Free. Cortland Branch Library, 578 Lakeview Drive, Cortland; 330-638-6335. Gettin’ Cheesy: French Cream Cheese Gettin’ Cheesy: French Cream Cheese provides the ins and outs on how to make your own cream cheese and ways to use it with herbs at Fellows Riverside Gardens from 6-8 p.m. Each participant will take home a starter to work with on their own. $20; FFRG member $15. Fellows Riverside Gardens, 123 McKinley Ave., Youngstown America’s Music America’s Music: Swing Jazz blows into Stambaugh Auditorium. Features a film history of popular music from blues to bluegrass to Broadway swing jazz. Consisting of a lecture, film and discussion. Presented by YSU Dana School of Music, The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County, and Stambaugh Auditorium. 7 p.m. Free. Stambaugh Auditorium is at 1000 Fifth, Ave in Youngstown Senory Friendly Film For Famlies Affected By Autism In partnership with The Autism Society, Encore Cinema will be bringing Sensory Friendly Films to families affected by autism on Saturday, April 12 at 10 a.m. The program provides a special opportunity for families to enjoy their favorite films in a safe and accepting environment. The auditorium is dedicated to having their lights up, the sound turned down and audience members are invited to get up and dance, walk, shout or sing! For more information, Contact: Brian DeCiancio, owner, 330-647-3230 or at brian@nilesencore.com. Encore Cinema is located at 930 Great East Plaza in Niles, OH
April 11, 2014
On Stage The Oakland Center For The Arts: Equus The Oakland Center for the Arts will be stage Peter Shaffer's drama Equus, on weekends from Friday, April 11th through Saturday, April 26th. Evening performances begin at 8 p.m. Equus is Shaffer's fictionalized retelling of a 1973 event when a 17-year-old boy blinded six horses and the psychologist who attempts to treat the young man with the pathological religious fascination with horses.Tickets and more information about this show are available at (330) 746-0404. The Oakland Center for the Arts located at 220 West Boardman Street in Youngstown Salem Community Theatre: The Fox on the Fairway Salem Community Theatre presents the farce The Fox on the Fairway, finishing its run through Sunday, April 13th. Evening performances begin at 8 p.m. and Sunday matinees are at 2 p.m. This play is a tribute to the old English farces, and includes mistaken identities, slamming doors, and over-the-top romantic shenanigans, as the rug is pulled out from underneath the stuffy denizens of a private country club. Tickets and more information about this show are available at (330) 332-9688. Salem Community Theatre is at 490 East State Street in Salem.
The Victorian Players: Life With Father The Victorian Players brings to the stage Life With Father this final weekend through Saturday, April 12th. Life With Father tells of a rambunctious, overburdened Wall Street Broker who demands that everything his family does should be just so, and the more he rails against their inability to live up to his impossible demands, the more comical and lovable he becomes to them. Evening performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Tickets and more information about this show are available at (330) 746-5455
Top Hat Productions: The Earth Trembled The Earth Trembled is a Top Hat production that is a musical Passion Play, depicting the crucifixion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. All ages are welcome, however some scenes are graphic. There are no reservations at the Fairview Arts and Outreach Center, seating is open and free of charge. Call 330-518 2034 with questions. 7:30 p.m., April 11-13; 7:30 p.m., April 18-19. 7:30 p.m. Free. Fairview Arts and Outreach Center. 4220 Youngstown-Poland Road, Struthers;
April 11, 2014
On Stage (cont’d) Stage Left Players: Belles Stage Left Players stages Belles at the Outreach Center in Lisbon. The play told in two acts and 45 phone calls, Belles visits six southern sisters, who, over the course of an autumn weekend, seek to bridge the physical and emotional distance between them via the telephone. In the process, they hope to come to terms with their shattered family history. April 11-12 at 7:30 p.m and 2 p.m on April 13. Outreach Center is 234 E. Lincoln in Lisbon
Earth Fest Comes To Penn State Shenango Penn State Shenango holds Earth Fest 2014 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 12, in downtown Sharon, Pennsylvania. The event for adults and children of all ages offers free admission and is open to the public, will include live music and entertainment, children’s activities, an artists’ market, Penn State Berkey Creamery Ice Cream, information from sustainability-minded local organizations and businesses, a computer recycling event and eco-friendly cars. Food will be available to purchase. Featured performer, Billy B: The Natural Science Song & Dance Man, from New York City, brings his energetic, interactive music to the auditorium at 12:15 p.m. and again at 3:00 p.m. Billy B. has performed in such diverse venues as the White House, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Kennedy Center for the Performing
YSU Dance Ensemble Takes To The Dance Floor For The 24 Time Youngstown State University Theater presents the YSU Dance Ensemble that will feature choreographed works by visiting artists, students, and faculty, including the dance styles of Modern, Ballet, Jazz, Hip-Hop, and World Dance forms. The Ensemble under the direction of Christine Cobb for the 24th time, will take center stage through Saturday, April 12th at 7:30 pm. at the Ford Theater of Bliss Hall, on the campus of YSU. Tickets and more information about these performances are available at (330) 941-3105.
April 11, 2014
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Excerpts from A Byrd’s Eye View can be read in The Review, Newspaper, available throughout the Valley and online at http://www.thereviewnewspapers.com/
Movie reivews from A Byrd’s Eye View can be read in The Buckeye Review Newspaper, available throughout the Valley at various newstands.
Art Byrd Jr. has won awards as a filmmaker and journalist. After working many years as a videographer and director for WFMJ TV News, he retired from broadcasting to share his experience and insight with students as an instructor at Youngstown State University. Art has written and produced numerous Indie films, which have been shown at prestigious film festivals. In addition to teaching and writing/ producing A Byrd’s Eye View newsletter, Art also does freelance media work. He is based in Youngstown, Ohio.
Monnie Ryan retired in 2003 after 14 years as managing editor of The Business Journal in Youngstown, where she continues to contribute to the print and online editions. Articles she has written have appeared in more than 20 national publications and at several travelrelated Web sites, and she has won numerous awards for photography. Contact her at mryan62692@aol.com.