Pittsburgh Current, Vol. 2, Issue 2 by pittsburghcurrent

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VOL. 2 ISSUE 2

Jan. 22, 2019 - Feb. 4, 2019 PGHCURRENT

PGHCURRENT

THE

PGHCURRENT

CHILL

ISSUE

100 ways to keep busy this winter

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C O H E N

G R I G S B Y

T R U S T

P R E S E N T S

S E R I E S

AN EVENING OF CONTEMPORARY CHINESE FOLK MUSIC COMPOSED AND DIRECTED BY MA JIUYUE

FEBRUARY 8, 2019 BY H A M T H E AT E R

NEW CONTENT EVERY DAY

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STAFF Publisher/Editor: Charlie Deitch Charlie@pittsburghcurrent.com Associate Publisher: Bethany Ruhe

CONTENTS Vol. II Iss. II Jan. 22, 2019

Bethany@pittsburghcurrent.com

EDITORIAL Art Director: Emily McLaughlin emily@pittsburghcurrent.com Music Editor: Margaret Welsh Margaret@pittsburghcurrent.com Visuals Editor: Jake Mysliwczyk jake@pittsburghcurrent.com Staff Writer, News and Food: Haley Frederick Haley@pittsburghcurrent.com Staff Writer, Arts: Amanda Reed Amanda@pittsburghcurrent.com Columnists: Aryanna Berringer, Sue Kerr, Mike Wysocki opinions@pittsburghcurrent.com Craft Beer Writer: Day Bracey info@pittsburghcurrent.com Contributing Writers: Jody DiPerna, Mike Shanley, Ted Hoover, Mike Watt, Matt Petras, Thomas Leturgey, Nick Eustis, Steve Sucato info@pittsburghcurrent.com Intern: Hannah Walden Logo Design: Mark Adisson

OPINION 6 | Full Disclosure 7 | Drawing a Line

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COVER PHOTO BY JAKE MYSLIWCZYK

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The opinions contained in columns and letters to the editors represent the views of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Pittsburgh Current ownership, management and staff. The Pittsburgh Current is an independently owned and operated print and online media company produced in the heart of Pittsburgh’s Beechview neighborhood, 1665 Broadway Ave., Pittsburgh, PA., 15216. 412-204-7248.

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OPINION

Bethany Hallam. Current Photo by Hannah Walden

FULL DISCLOSURE

ALLEGHENY COUNTY COUNCIL CANDIDATE MAKES HER PAST PART OF HER FUTURE BY ARYANNA BERRINGER - PITTSBURGH CURRENT POLITICAL COLUMNIST ARYANNA@PITTSBURGHCURRENT.COM

or decades, if not centuries, in American political campaigns, the practice of covering up mistakes and missteps in one’s personal life has been commonplace. Candidates for office burst out of the gate with a sparkle and shine, convincing voters why they should fall in love with them; some voters fall for it. In some cases, though, those people are hit in the face when something problematic surfaces from the candidate’s past. We’ve seen everything from drug use, criminal convictions, bribery and unpaid taxes, uncovered by the media and opposing campaigns, all in an attempt to raise doubt about an individual’s fitness for office. Candidates and campaigns will go to

great lengths to keep those secrets, well, a secret. But last week, Bethany Hallam shook up the local political scene by breaking away from that longtime shady campaign strategy. In an interview with WESA’s Chris Potter, on the very day she announced her candidacy to serve as an AtLarge member to Allegheny County Council, Hallam told the world about her ordeal with drug use, addiction and even her incarceration. She didn’t wait for it to come out down the road and then try to explain it away or put some kind of spin on it. Orange is the New Black has met politics and no one has ever done it like Hallam just did it. In fact, after some googling and research, I

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can’t seem to find another candidate for public office that has struggled openly with an opioid addiction. She may be the first and that is groundbreaking. Unfortunately, due to the opioid epidemic, the beginning of Hallam’s story of addiction isn’t anything new. It’s what she is doing with it that’s been a breath of fresh air. She’s not covering it up, not hiding

ROB ROGERS

it and instead facing it head on, in a cathartic process not only for herself, but for those still caught up in a downward life spiral. She’s offering her experience in the gutter as a way to put a public face on finding real solutions where our politicians have failed us. Life is messy and it takes guts to address it in the way Hallam is setting out to do. I give a lot of credit to anyone who offers their name up to serve in elected office. It’s not easy. So when you are presented with an individual who launches their candidacy by opening up in such an unconventional way of exposing themselves to ridicule, you will most likely hear the political establishment chatter about that candidate having little-to-no chance of winning. But I think voters will jump to a quicker relationship with Hallam’s script flipping. By willingly talking about her past, Hallam sets the tone of the conversation. She makes the opioid crisis a topic of her campaign, instead of a tool for her candidate to use against her. At the ripe old age of 29, Hallam’s strategy just set the stage for what is surely to be a generational competition of political engagement as well as policy ideas. And she may have changed politics in our region forever in doing so.

Steve Kelley’s cartoon from the January 20 issue of the P-G. (Current Photo by Bethany Ruhe)

DRAWING A LINE HOW MUCH LONGER WILL READERS KEEP PAYING POST-GAZETTE PUBLISHER JOHN BLOCK FOR HIS INSULTING EDITORIAL PAGES BY CHARLIE DEITCH - PITTSBURGH CURRENT EDITOR CHARLIE@PITTSBURGHCURRENT.COM

his is a progressive-leaning newspaper. Who am I kidding? If we leaned left any further, we’d be laying down. But I’m OK with that and so are most of our readers. And for the readers who don’t like our political stance, they’re not surprised when they read us because we’ve been open and honest about it from day one. Maybe they just read for our arts and music coverage and our awesome list of 100 things to do this winter that you’ll find in this issue. The point is, we don’t hide who we are. I don’t say I’m for women’s reproductive rights and then go make a donation to National Right for Life. I don’t say I believe in civil right protections for the LGBTQ community and then stand outside a soldier’s funeral with the Westboro Baptist Church. Take how we approach a story. We tell all sides to a story and if one of those sides happens to be wrong, we’re not going to pretend that all

is well. This brings me to the issues that I have with John Robinson Block and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s editorial staff. Block and his editorial editor Keith Burris are unapologetic Trumpladytes and borderline right-wing fanatics. They wrote an editorial calling racism the “new McCarthyism,” meaning basically that if you don’t like what someone says, unfairly label them a racist. In a follow up story that I would do in the days after that interview, I found an old Toledo Blade story in which Block literally told one of his own reporters that black people needed to pull themselves up “by their bootstraps.” In 2016, I was sent a photo of Block hobnobbing with Trump on the then-candidate’s private jet. Later that year, he even tried to steer the P-G into an endorsement of Trump. Now, you may ask, how is that different from being a left-leaning paper? The difference is in the honesty and the integrity in which

you present your opinions. Block and Burris have decided to take the Fox News approach of claiming they are “fair and balanced” and claiming everyone else is crazy. I mean that’s kind of what happened when they fired cartoonist Rob Rogers last year because they claimed his antiTrump cartoons (many of which were spiked and scuttled despite being honest representations of current events) showed that he was obsessing on the president. Rogers was the one not being fair and balanced. What they were doing, however, was ridding the editorial pages of anyone who refused to hold the moronic line that these two closed-minded twits were laying down. In an effort to show what fair and balanced cartoons look like, cartoonist Steve Kelley was hired. Kelley is certainly a right-leaning cartoonist, but that’s not inherently bad, I suppose. Except when you come to realize that it is. In the past 10 days, Kelley has drawn, and Block and Burris have published, three of the most outwardly misogynistic cartoons that I have seen in recent times. One features a man and a woman at dinner and the woman tells the man, “As a modern woman, I’m all for eliminating traditional gender roles, at least until the waiter brings the dinner tab.” The second appeared a day later and showed two tween girls sitting in a room and one says, “Maybe one day I’ll grow up and divorce a man just like Jeff Bezos!” The third ran this past Sunday and Kelley drew Trump in a staredown with Nancy Pelosi over the shutdown. Trump, the man, couldn’t blink because there was “too much at stake.” Pelosi couldn’t blink, according to the cartoon because of “too much Botox.” These cartoons aren’t funny or ironic or making big political statements. They’re downright mean, demeaning and the classic definition of sexist. I’m sure in the world of men like this, this is just good, old-fashioned grab’em-bythe-pussy locker-room talk. I’m sure

they celebrated by high-fiving, doing jaeger shots and snapping each other on the ass with towels. This isn’t satire. It’s a meanspirited and degrading attack on women. The same kind of attacks we’ve seen them unleash on black people and trans individuals in the past. They probably think they’re fighting back against a world that’s too PC, too liberal; they’re pissed because people don’t know their place, their station anymore. Why else would you be so unnecessarily brazen to run these recent cartoons that serve no legitimate purpose? It’s a shame because, as I’ve said before, the P-G does great work reporting the news and conducting investigative reporting. That’s the reason many folks have kept their subscriptions despite the change on the editorial pages. But the P-G is at a crossroads. Editor David Shribman left at year’s end. Shribman has had his critics, but he has served as a good steward, for the most part, keeping the news product separated from the editorial pages. But with Shribman gone, what’s to keep Block from installing a weak editor who won’t hold that line or, even worse, an editor with a similar political mindset who thinks that it’s fine to let politics seep into the news coverage without ever really telling your readers that’s what you’re doing. These recent cartoons show us that the goal of the P-G’s editorial pages isn’t just to promote rightwing opinions and ideology, which I personally think is bad enough. These three sexist cartoons show us that they’re taking up the worst side of right-wing rhetoric. Rhetoric that is meant to hurt, demean and put you in your place. It’s not-sosubliminal messaging telling the rest of us to piss off and fuck our collective selves. The right’s already got a bunch of sources telling us that. Speaking for myself, I don’t know how much longer I want to continue paying to hear it from my hometown paper. And, I’m pretty sure I’m not the only one thinking that thought. PITTSBURGH CURRENT | JAN. 22, 2019 | 7

THE

CHILL ISSUE

100 suggestions to help you have fun and chill out this winter BY CHARLIE DEITCH, HALEY FREDERICK AND MARGARET WELSH - PITTSBURGH CURRENT STAFF WRITERS INFO@PITTSBURGHCURRENT.COM

Yes, winter can suck if you let it. But it doesn’t have to because of all of the activities going on between now and the end of March. Here’s our list of exactly 100 things to do to help you Chill Out this winter. And here’s a bonus tip: Stop freaking out about snow! This isn’t Miami!

1. Take in some opera: Pittsburgh

Opera has three shows on deck to help warm you up with the power of music. AfterWARds: Mozart’s Idomeneo Reimagined (Jan. 26, 29 and Feb. 1, 3) is a condensed version of this modern opera. The story of Col. Jim Thompson, the longestheld U.S. Prisoner of War is told in Glory Denied (Feb. 23, 26; March 1, 3). Finally there is Puccini’s classic La Boheme (March 30, April 2,5,7). pittsburghopera.org

2. Hit the Ice: The Pittsburgh

Penguins are heading into the home stretch before the NHL playoffs. Check out a home game before the

season ends at PPG Paints Arena (pittsburghpenguins.com) And read NHL Radio’s Brian Metzer’s Penguins column each Thursday at pittsburghcurrent.com.

3. Pittsburgh Racial Justice

Summit: This annual meeting features discussions and workshops to help attendees learn, connect, and act on behalf of racial justice. Jan. 26-27. Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, Highland Park. Price is on a sliding scale and tickets can be found at tinyurl.com/yde9xnhl

NFL Play 60 Training Camp. A free event for kids under age 17 at the

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Heinz History Center. Go through a mini training camp, meet local pro athletes and maybe win some prizes. 10 a.m. Sat. Jan. 26. Free for those under 17. heinzhistorycenter.org

solo tour with some new tunes. Why did it make the list? What’s more chill than a juggalo? 6 p.m., Tue. Jan. 29. Cattivo, Lawrenceville. $21-25. druskyentertainment.com

7. In the Heights: If you’re in a

Where Did We Sit on the Bus?: Brian Quijada stages a hip-hop autobiography about falling in love with performance, the power of family and growing up Latinx in a world that categorizes everyone in black and white. Runs through Feb. 25 at the City Theater, South Side. $29-35. citytheatrecompany.org

Shaggy 2 Dope: It’s one half of the Insane Clown Posse out on a

panic and wondering how to get over the post-Hamilton doldrums when it exits town Jan. 27, Pittsburgh Musical Theater has you covered. Before Lin Manuel Miranda hit with his current smash, he made a name for himself with In the Heights. Jan. 21-27 and Jan. 31-Feb. 3. Gargaro Theater, West End. $40. pittsburghmusicals.com

8. Rickey Laurentiis and

Terrance Hayes book signing, reading and conversation: It would be difficult to imagine a stage with two more talented and decorated poets on it than the one at Heinz Memorial Chapel on Thursday, Jan. 24, sponsored by the Center for African American Poetry and Poetics at the University of Pittsburgh. Laurentiis has received a Cave Canem Poetry Prize, a Thom Gunn Award for Gay Poetry as well as fellowships from the National Endowment of the Arts, the Whiting Foundation and others. Hayes is a recipient of a MacArthur Fellowship (genius grant) and is former poetry editor for New York Times Magazine.

George Lopez: The World Wall Tour: The Latino comedian doesn’t mince words and the title of this tour let’s you know what his main target will be. Lopez is no fan of the wall or the president. Last fall at a New Mexico Hooters, Lopez got into an altercation with a Trump supporter who had been harrassing the comedian all evening. Buckle Up. 7 p.m. Fri. Jan. 25. Carnegie of Homestead Music Hall. $44.81-250. librarymusichall.com

10. Gallery Crawl in the

Cultural District: Check out the diverse artistic offerings throughout the Downtown Cultural District in this free event on Fri., Jan. 25. culturaldistrict.org

11. Honky-Tonk JukeBox

www.ppt.org

this is the story that taught them that dreams can come true. The Gemini Children’s Theater presents this classic tale Saturdays and Sundays at 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. through Feb. 3. $12. 520 Chartiers Ave., McKees Rocks. geminitheater.org

now it’s even more so with the addition of the Burning Bridges Comedy Club upstairs. There’s live comedy every Saturday and Sunday at this Lawrenceville spot (burningbridgescomedyclub.com). And if you like old school, you can always hit up the Pittsburgh’s branch of the Improv Comedy Club, which has been newly refurbished. (improv.com/pittsburgh).

16.

17. Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG

Dance Party: This awesome new monthly music program benefits the Deutschtown Music Festival. The event is hosted by Job Bindley of Bindley Hardware Co. and features other well-known Pittsburgh artists like Molly Alphabet and Chet Vincent. 7:30 p.m. Fri. Jan. 25. Allegheny Elks, North Side. $10. tinyurl.com/honkytonkjukebox

15. Peter Pan: For most children,

12. Jessica Lang Dance: Since its

Get your laugh on: Individual shows will be highlighted throughout this list, but check out these locations that run shows on a weekly basis, some multiple nights a week. Arcade Comedy Theater, Downtown, is your go-to for fresh improv across the city (arcadecomedytheater. com). Hambones has always been a friendly place for comics, but

inception in 2011, this international dance company has performed worldwide. Alas, this is JLD’s final season and possibly your last chance to view their stunning performance. 8 p.m. Sat. Jan. 26. Byham Theater, Downtown. $10-65. culturaldistrict. org

Aquarium Penguin Parade: It’s a little bit of magic that you only get to see during the winter. Every Saturday and Sunday at 11:30 a.m. sharp (as long as it’s below 45 degrees), the Zoo’s penguins come outside for a stroll and a little frolicking in the snow. It’s Ok to fall in love, but don’t try to disguise one as your child and take them home. pittsburghzoo.org

13.

Pittsburgh RV Show: Always wonder how spacious your neighbor’s RV is, but you don’t want to take a trip with them to find out? Come to the Pittsburgh RV show and take a tour of this nine-acre event that would make Cousin Eddie foam at the mouth. Runs through Jan. 27. $5-1$12. pittrvshow.com

14. The Tempest: We’ve written about this elsewhere in the issue, but we’re mentioning it again, because you need to see this allwomen retelling of Shakespeare’s classic. 8 p.m. Jan. 24 through Feb. 24. Pittsburgh Public Theater at the O’Reilly Theater. 412-316-1600 or

Penguin Parade at Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. Current Photo by Jake Mysliwczyk

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18. Wigle Whiskey’s Winter

Drinking Buddies: Wigle Whiskey buddies up with La Palapa for a unique food and drink pairing. Wigle will mix up a special cocktail for this lunchtime event to compliment La Palapa’s fresh, Mexican flavors. 11 a.m. Sun., Jan. 27. Wigle Whiskey Distillery, Strip District. wiglewhiskey.com

19.

Rube Day: The Pittsburgh Children’s Museum is celebrating its newest exhibition, “Rube Goldberg: The World of Hilarious Invention!” through themed activities throughout the Museum to discover the legacy of Rube Goldberg. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun., Jan. 27. $16 for adults, $14 for kids. pittsburghkids. org

20. Charlie and the Chocolate

Factory: PNC on Broadway brings Roald Dahl’s classic tale to the Benedum Center. Charlie, Veruca, the whole gang should be waiting. Tue. Jan. 28-Sun. Feb. 3 (times vary). Benedum Center, Downtown. $45125. culturaldistrict.com

21. Keystone Progress Summit: Progressives from around the state will gather at the IBEW Hall on the South Side Feb.1-2 to discuss issues that should be part of all future progressive legislative agendas. Speakers include Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto. There will be

breakout workshop sessions and opportunities to network. Register at paprogressivesummit.net.

22. Ice skate Downtown: Most

people think the ice rink at PPG Plaza is a Christmas-only event, but it’s actually open until March 3. It’s $9 for kids, $10 for adults (plus $4 skate rental) and they even have several themed skates where you can wear costumes.. There’s the Princes Skate on Jan. 27, the Super Hero Skate on Feb. 9 and the Valentine’s skate on Feb. 14. ppgplace.com

23. Lunar New Year Banquet:

Hosted by the Organization of Chinese Americans (OCA), this Lunar New Year celebration is in its 32nd year here in Pittsburgh. Attendees will have a traditional Mandarin-style multi-course dinner and see stunning cultural performances as they ring in the Year of the Earth Pig. 5 p.m. Sat., Feb. 2. Heinz History Center, Strip District. $58-$88. ocapghpa.org

24.

Imbibe North Side: There will be plenty of music, food and local libations like War Streets Brewery at this Feb. 2 event at the Mattress Factory, 505 Jacksonia St. For $40 you get a special glass, unlimited tastings and access to the gallery’s exhibits. Food trucks will be on hand selling their wares. tinyurl. com/2019imbibenorthside

25. Place a legal wager on

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The rink at PPG Plaza. Current Photo by Jake Mysliwczyk

the Super Bowl: No need to use your shady bookie or try to get your credit card approved at an offshore website. You can just go down to the Rivers Casino and make that bet for free. It will get you ready for those big money baseball parlays this summer.

26. Women in Sound ’Zine

Release: Need some winter reading? Grab issue six of the Women in Sound zine, a collection of interviews with women, non-binary and trans people working in the music industry. In partnership with the girlFx collective’s monthly In the Weeds residency, the evening features a mastering workshop, an electronic instrument petting zoo and tunes from DJ Aunt Buck. 7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 4. Ace Hotel, East Liberty. Free. acehotel.com/ pittsburgh

27. Catch a reading or show

at City of Asylum at Alphabet City: They have one of the most robust events calendars of just about anyplace in the city. From musical performances to group discussions to book and poetry readings, there has to be something for everybody. For the full schedule check out alphabetcity.org. But here are a few we recommend: On Feb.1 is Beyond Borders: An Evening of Immigrant Fiction with authors Crystal Hana Kim, Naima Coster, Wayetu Moore, Shobha Rao and Cristina Garcia; Julian Randall, a queer, black poet from Chicago will share work from

his latest, Refuse; Feb. 19 and 20 bring a two-night celebration of legendary jazz saxophonist, Ornette Coleman, including a firstnight concert by drummer David Throckmorton and Space Exchange.

28. Andy Warhol Museum

Sound Series: Andy Warhol loved music. So it made sense when the museum named in his honor and curated in his spirit, started a concert program. The Museum’s Sound Series is in its 15th year and is meant to “blur genres of contemporary independent music.” The lineup through March 30: Da Capo Chamber Players, 8 p.m., Feb. 2; An Evening with Emily McKay, 8 p.m., Feb.15; Jonathan Wilson, 8 p.m., Feb. 25; Princess, 8 p.m., March 1; Rafiq Bhatia, 8 p.m., March 7; Turning Jewels into Water, 8 p.m., March 16; serpentwithfeet, 8 p.m., March 20; Joe McPhee, Claire Chase and Peter Evans, 8 p.m., March 23; Mdou Moctar, 8 p.m., March 28; Instruments of Happiness, 8 p.m., March 30. warhol.org

29.

Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra presents The Music of Queen: The release of the film Bohemian Rhapsody, has everyone giving Freddie Mercury’s music a reexamination. The symphony, conducted by Brent Havens, will be fronted by vocalist Brody Dolyniuk and a full rock band for one night only. 8 p.m. Sat. Feb. 2. Heinz Hall, Downtown. $25-90. pittsburghsymphony.org

30.

Jazz at the Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild: This North Side fixture has a winter full of fantastic performances. On Sat., Feb. 2, at 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., there will be two top jazz acts on the stage. The Alfredo Rodriguez & Pedrito Martinez Duo, featuring the pianist and percussionist, respectively. Then, the audience will be treated to Edmar Castaneda & Gregoire Maret: Harp vs. Harp. The show features Castaneda on the string variety and Maret on the wind instrument. On Feb. 23, jazz vocalist Rene Marie is joined by trombonist, Delfeayo Marsalis. $51.50. Manchester Craftsman Guild, Manchester.

31.

Tell a story: Do you love live storytelling either as a speaker or a listener? The Moth Storyslam will hold two events in February and March. On Tues., Feb. 5, storytellers will weave five minute tales under the topic, “Love Hurts.” On Tues., March 5, the topic will be “Blame.” Both events begin at 7 p.m. at the Rex Theater on the South Side. themoth.org

32. Get a hot local beverage:

34. You Can Call Me Al: This

show from artist and educator Ali Hoefnagel “is a long-form story about growing up, getting gay, coming out, living with mental illness, and uncovering family secrets.” The show is part of the New Hazlett Theater’s CommunitySupported Art Performance series. 7 p.m. Feb. 7-8. New Hazlett Theater, North Side. $25. newhazletttheater. org

35. Pittsburgh Improv Jam:

We all have our coffee habits, but when you’re trying to stay warm out there with hot coffee, tea, or cocoa, make sure to share some love with local businesses.

33. Have a magical evening: If

you’re a fan of magic and sleight-ofhand, Liberty Magic is going to be your new favorite place. The 70-seat performance space at 811 Liberty Ave., Downtown open Feb. 6 with a six-week residence by magician Eric Jones and his new show, Impossible. There are multiple shows weekly from Wednesday to Sunday through March 17. $40-65. BYOB with a $5 corkage fee. trustarts.org

Hosted by Pittsburgh Improv group, Well Known Strangers, the event features Improv performers of all talent levels choosing teams and performing based on audience suggestions. After the Feb. 7 show, the Improv Jam will be weekly starting Thu. March 7. All shows at 10 p.m. The Jam is free for performers. Signups begin at 9:30 p.m. $3 for audience members. Greer Cabaret Theater, Downtown. Culturaldistrict. org.

36.

The Gun Show (Can we talk about this?): This one-person

PITTSBURGH CURRENT | JAN. 22, 2019 | 11

show from immersive theater group, Quantum Theatre, is based on one playwright E.M. Lewis’ complicated history with gun culture. The show plays at different times and venues between Feb. 8 and March 23. $45. quantumtheatre.com

37. The Great Gatsby with

the Pittsburgh Ballet Theater Orchestra: “Rediscover the revelry and recklessness of the Roaring ‘20s in Jorden Morris’ poignant restaging of The Great Gatsby,” PBT’s description reads. Fri. Feb. 8-Sun. Feb. 17. Benedum Center, Downtown. $28-112.

38. Catch some preseason

Riverhounds soccer: These guys don’t head south to train, the stay right here and they’re playing eight warm up games at Highmark Stadium beginning Feb. 8. Check out Riverhounds.com for more information.

39. John Maus: John Maus

brings a lot to the table. His lofi, vintage synth-based music is at once emotionally distant and deeply earnest, brainy (he’s a former philosophy teacher and holds a PhD in political science) and viscerally embodied. Whether or not we’re living on the edge of apocalypse, Maus gives us all something to dance to. 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 8. Spirit, Lawrenceville. $20. www.spiritpgh. com

40. See a film at the Carnegie

Science Center’s Rangos Giant Cinema: There’s always plenty of awesome educational films, but it’s also a good spot for blockbusters like the Lego Movie 2 on Fri. Feb. 8 and Captain Marvel on Fri. March 8. Carnegie Science Center, North Side. $11.95-$13.95. carnegiesciencecenter. org

41. Monster Jam: No description

is necessary. We’ve all heard the commercials since we were kids. This event is about bad-ass trucks and the noise they make. Let’s rock. Fri. Feb. 8-Sun. Feb. 10. 7 p.m. Friday, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday and 1 p.m. Sunday. $15-$60. ppgpaintsarena. com

42. Snow tubing,

snowboarding or skiing at Boyce Park: Sure our most recent snowstorm was a Class-A bust, but the snow will come and when it does this Allegheny County Park will be ready for you. tinyurl.com/ boyceparkwinter

43. OUTRageous Bingo: If you claim not to like OUTRageous then you have outed yourself as a real stick in the mud. It’s the best Bingo in town and there’s even a halftime drag show. There are games Feb. 9 and March 2. outrageousbingopgh. org

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44. ’90s Bar Crawl: Whether

you were born in the 90s or you remember them all too well, you can revisit the decade with this nostalgic bar crawl. Celebrate the music and fashion of the 90s as you bounce from bar to bar in South Side to get the best of the night’s drink specials and 90s souvenirs. 3 p.m., Sat., Feb. 9. South Side. $30-$40. 90sbarcrawl. com

45. Taco Trail: a Tour of

Pittsburgh’s Best Tacos and Margaritas: This tour put on by Shadyside Funhouse will take participants around to four different taco purveyors around the city to sample their fare. At each stop, you’ll a get a taco or two and a margarita to try and then rate on a scorecard. 1 p.m. Sat., Feb. 9. Mad Mex, Shadyside.$64-$94. facebook.com/ shadysidefunhouse

46. Valentine’s Day Cookie

Baking Class: Threadbare Cider House gives you the opportunity to learn to bake with your sweetheart. Pastry Chef Elise Miranda will guide participants through how to bake three types of cookies and Valentine treats. The class includes cookie baking, cookies to take home, a glass of Threadbare cider, light snacks and a tour of the cider house. 6 p.m. Feb., 11. Threadbare Cider House, Spring Garden. $40. Threadbarecider.com

47. The Cooper Family: Led

by 1997 Tony-Award winner Chuck Cooper, the Cooper Family (which also includes his kids, Lilli and Eddie) brings its stage presence and musical abilities to Downtown’s Greer Cabaret Theater. 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Mon. Feb. 11. $45. culturaldistrict.org

48.

Jeff Goldblum and the Mildred Snitzer Orchestra: Before he was an actor and musician, Jeff Goldblum was a kid from West Homestead. On Feb. 14, he returns to Homestead with his band to do two special Valentine’s Day shows at the Carnegie of Homestead Music Hall in Munhall at 7 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. $53.50-128. librarymusichall.com

49. Let My People Go: A

Spiritual Journey Along The Underground Railroad: The Mendelssohn Choir of Pittsburgh presents this dramatic work composed by Donald McCullough that “interweaves 14 Negro Spirituals with a dramatic historically based script” that’s been called “moving,” “haunting,” and “spine-tingling.” 7:30 p.m. Fri. Feb. 15. Ebenezer Baptist Church, Hill District. $10-35. themendelssohn.org

50.

An Evening with Jackie Evancho to benefit homeless LGBTQIA youth: The local singer who made it big when she won America’s Got Talent, is giving back to a cause very near and dear to her. The event will benefit The

1967-1976, Three Dog Night was a pretty big deal. They had 12 gold records and charted 21 straight Billboard Top 40 hits, three of which hit number one. Most people know them for Joy to the World, but songs like One and Mama Told Me not to Come, are pretty legit. 7 p.m., Sat. Feb. 16. Carnegie of Homestead Music Hall, Munhall. $67-95. librarymusichall.com

54. Cupid’s Undie Run: Cupid’s

security comes. 10 a.m. Feb. 15-18. $6-12. pittautoshow.com

Undie Run is a “brief” fun run that takes place in the middle of a big party. Undies are encouraged but not required, and it’s all to find a cure to neurofibromatosis, a genetic disorder that affects one in every 3,000 children born. 12 p.m. Sat., Feb. 16. McFadden’s, North Shore. $40. my.cupids.org

52.

55. Build a snowman at Point

Cupid’s Undie Run. Current Photo by Jake Mysliwczyk

Brave Heart Foundation, provide a safe, enriching, and affirmative place for homeless LGBTQ young adults ages 18-26, that will provide the emotional support and overall care needed for a healthy transition into adulthood. Evancho has been a very vocal supporter of Trans rights and has always supported her trans sister, Juliet. 7 p.m. Fri. Feb. 15. August Wilson Center, Downtown. $75-15,000. tinyurl.com/ evanchofundraiser

51. 75th Pittsburgh

International Auto Show: Just because you can’t afford a Lamborghini doesn’t mean you can’t sit in one, or sniff one, or whatever else you can get away with before

Da Vinci The Exhibition: Take a deep dive into the innovation, science and creativity of Renaissance Man, Leonardo Da Vinci. This exhibit features 60 fully built inventions, 20 pieces of fine art and other items that “examine the complex beginnings and lifetime achievements of Da Vinci through his discoveries in art, engineering, flight, hydraulics, music, light, and more.” Opens Sat. Feb. 16 at the CSC’s PPG Science Pavilion, North Side. $15.95-29.90. carnegiesciencecenter.org

53. Three Dog Night: From

State Park: The Point is a year-round destination, and all that snow and space should be put to good use.

56. Bitters and Sweets:

pittsburghbotanicgarden.org

57.

Gregory Porter: This multifaceted, grammy-winning vocalist, has a velvet smooth sound that’s a sweet mixture of jazz, soul and gospel all stirred together. 8 p.m., Sun. Feb. 17. August Wilson Center, Downtown. $58.75. aacc-awc. org

58.

Gang of Four: Since forming in 1977, Gang of Four has held fast in the hearts of music geeks, influencing bands that would go on to be much more commercially successful: Nirvana, Red Hot Chili Peppers and R.E.M. all acknowledged massive debts to Gang of Four’s stoic, stripped down approach to dance-punk. Greil Marcus wrote in ’79 that the magic lay in the drama of their music and the way they held the stage, and that holds true still. 8 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 17. Mr. Smalls Theater, Millvale. $2830. clubcafelive.com

59. Bob Mould Band: In the

This 21+ event at the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden promises to be a lovely evening of sipping cocktails, enjoying food and entertainment and even completing a nature-based craft. Dessert and drinks will be available from local vendors like Wigle Whiskey and Helicon Brewing. 7 p.m. Sat, Feb. 16. Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, Oakdale. $30-50.

1980s there was a kick-ass alt-rock band called Husker-Du. In the 1990s, there was a kick-ass alt-rock band called Sugar. Why do we bring this up? Because Bob Mould fronted both of them and Bob Mould is really freaking talented. So carry your ass out to Mr. Smalls at 7 p.m. on Tue. Feb. 19 and ask Mr. Mould if he’ll play “The Slim” or “Good Idea” from Copper Blue. $25. Mr. Smalls Theater,

PITTSBURGH CURRENT | JAN. 22, 2019 | 13

Millvale. mrsmalls.com

60.

Tubman: This one-woman show was written by New York-based writer Lacresha Berry. Her story reimagines Tubman as a young woman growing up in Harlem. She places the same woman with the same spirit into a different time but one that still battles the mistreatment of African Americans. The first show is at 1 p.m., Feb. 20 with the second coming Feb. 21 at 8 p.m. $23.75-33.75. aacc-awc.org

61.

Disturbed: As arena metal goes, these guys are still doing it at

a high level. David Draiman’s voice is bad-ass and if you don’t love the song, “Stupify,” we think there’s no hope for you. 7:30 p.m. Wed. Feb.20. PPG Paints Arena, Uptown. $48-79. ppgpaintsarena.com

62.

The Phantom of the Opera: Sometimes it seems like this play makes its rounds every six weeks, but the tour coming through town from Feb. 20-March 3 is apparently the largest tour of Phantom making the rounds today, with 52 actors and orchestra members. That plus enhanced effects is supposed to breathe new life into

this old standard. Benedum Center, Downtown. $45-150. trustarts.org

63.

Comedian Nikki Glaser: She’s a horrible dancer (once eliminated first from Dancing With the Stars), but Glaser is a brilliant, funny, brazen comic. She once told Conan O’Brien that her vagina looked like a “hastily packed suitcase,” and at the 2018 roast of Bruce Willis she said of the action star, “You’re very involved in the Make-A-Wish Foundation where sick kids get to meet you so dying doesn’t seem so terrible.” She’ll do five shows Feb. 21-23 at the Pittsburgh Improv, Homestead. $25. improv. com/pittsburgh

64. Pittsburgh Fermentation

Festival: Where else could you learn how to make your own Sauerkraut, play carnival games and see a “Mold Pageant” other than the fourth ever Pittsburgh Fermentation Festival? Whether you’re new to the fermentation funk or an expert, this festival is sure to teach you something new. 11 a.m. Fri., Feb. 22. Spirit, Lawrenceville. Free. fermentpittsburgh.com

65. Paul Taylor Dance

Company: In addition to a classic Paul Taylor work, the troupe will dance a new work, Continuum by former company dancer Lila York. 8 p.m. Sat., Feb. 23. Byham Theater,

Duquesne Incline. Current Photo by Jake Mysliwczyk 14 | JAN. 22, 2019 | PITTSBURGH CURRENT

Downtown, $10-65, culturaldistrict. com

66.

A Night at the Oscars: Hollywood Epics: Get into the Oscar spirit with this show from the Pittsburgh Symphony. Fri., Feb 22Sun., Feb. 24 (begins at 8 p.m. except for Sunday 2:30 matinee). Heinz Hall, Downtown. $22-99.

67.

North Side Mardi Gras: It’s not Bourbon Street, but it’s the only neighborhood-wide Mardi Gras celebration in the city. More than 35 restaurants, pubs and businesses will be offering specials from Feb. 22 all the way up until Fat Tuesday, March 5. pittsburghnorthside.com

68.

Black Bottom Film Festival: According to the August Wilson Center, “From age-old classics to contemporary work, the third annual Black Bottom Film Festival illuminates and celebrates African American cinema and unique black people. The festival showcases movies that focus on the themes of spirituality, race, family conflict, honor, duty and working-class struggle, themes ever-present in August Wilson’s The Pittsburgh Cycle plays.” Join them to celebrate African American filmmaking pioneers of recent decades, and examine how these filmmakers have influenced American culture. Writing and acting workshops will also be offered.

Feb. 22-34. August Wilson Center, Downtown. aacc-awc.org

69. Pittsburgh Winter Beer

Fest: The perfect event for any beer fanatic, the Pittsburgh Winter Beer Fest returns this season, offering attendees access to hundreds of craft beers from more than 125 breweries. Enjoy live music as you sample all the beers your heart desires on either Friday or Saturday this weekend. 6:30 p.m. Fri., Feb. 22; 12 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Sat., Feb. 23. David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Downtown. $60-$90. pittsburghbeerfest.com

70. Ride the Incline: after a

good snowfall: Yes, our skyline is awesome and when it’s covered in fresh powder with a little ice on the river, it’s even more so. duquesneincline.org

In the Heights

Jan 24 - Feb 3

71. FEAST at the Carnegie

International: This is the final culinary experience of the International, which began last fall. According to the Carnegie Museum of Art: “FEAST celebrates art through culinary adventures. Each FEAST takes its cues from art on view at the museum for a completely unique, one-night-only immersive cultural experience.” Patrons will get access to the galleries and also a movie from the Cinematheque Film Series, paired especially for the meal. The final dinner will be cooked by Chef Keyla Nogueira Cook of Cafe Brasil and the theme will be “Sound.” 4 p.m. Sat. Feb. 23. Carnegie Museum of Art, Oakland. $100. cmoa.org

72. Pittsburgh Pirates Spring

Training: Very little of baseball’s preseason actually takes place in the spring. The best way to chill out is head south to the greater-Bradenton, Fla. area and watch baseball in the

Nunsense

the Mega Musical

March 21 - 31

ready polish, she remains firmly in touch with her defiant roots. 8 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 24. Rex Theater, South Side. $15-18. rextheater.net

sunshine. The first game is Feb. 23. pirates.com

73. The Pittsburgh Plunge:

Be a Polar Bear and take a dip in frigid waters to raise money for Special Olympics. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sat. Feb. 23. Heinz Field. North Side. specialolympicspa.org/aboutpittsburgh-plunge

74.

75.

Le Butcherettes: As a teenager in Guadalajara, Mexico, Teri Gender Bender and her band Le Butcherettes railed against the patriarchy using fake blood and, infamously, a real pig’s head. Bender and co. have since found audiences beyond punk-house basements: last time they were in Pittsburgh, they opened for the Flaming Lips. The band’s new record, bi/MENTAL comes out February 1 and the glammy, garage-y single “father/ ELOHIM” showcases Bender’s swagger: Despite some arena-

An Evening with Ina Garten: The Emmy and James Beard award-winning author and Barefoot Contessa host stops in Pittsburgh on her tour to promote her newest cookbook, Cook Like a Pro. 7:30 p.m. Tues., Feb. 26. Heinz Hall, Downtown. $55-$105. pittsburghsymphony.org

76.

Black History Month Lecture: The African American Program of the Heinz History Center is hosting the fifth annual Black History Month Lecture featuring Leonard Moore, Ph.D., who will speak on the topic of black power and black politics of the 1960s and ’70s. 6 p.m. Thurs., Feb. 28. Heinz History Center, Strip District. Free. heinzhistorycenter.org

February 7- 8 • 8pm

YOU CAN CALL ME AL

A long-form story about growing up, getting gay, coming out, living with mental illness, and uncovering family secrets.

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77. Sebastian Maniscalco: The

Chicago-born Italian comic is one of those guys that seems to appear out of nowhere already super famous with a rabid following. Think Dane Cook, except that Maniscalco is really talented. His comedy specials are frenetic and physical and it’s hard to find a break in the laughter. He’s got two shows at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. at Heinz Hall on Fri. March 1. Tickets are $5-65 but act fast because they are moving out of the box office. See, what’d we tell you? culturaldistrict.org.

78. Charenée Wade Quintet:

The powerhouse jazz vocalist and her band will perform songs from her 2013 insta-classic record, Offering: The Music of Gil ScottHerron and Brian Jackson. The show is sponsored by the Kente Arts Alliance. 8 p.m. Sat. March 2. Kelly Strayhorn Theater, East Liberty. $35. kentearts.org

79. Juicy Brews Late Night:

Hop Culture Magazine is throwing a shindig at the new Cinderlands Beer Co. production facility that promises to be a “juicy evening.” They’ll have unlimited pours from some of the country’s best breweries, as well as music and a killer menu of late night-inspired bites. Sessions begin at 4 p.m. Sat., March 2. Cinderlands Beer Co., Strip District. $60-$90. hopculture.com

80. Wiz Khalifa & Curren$y:

As if you needed an excuse to see Wiz again, New Orleans rapper Curren$y comes along to sweeten the deal. The two have been friends and collaborators for a decade, but this year – in addition to touring together – they’ll release the joint studio album they’ve been teasing for nearly four years. Could it be the solidification of one of hip-hop history’s great duos? Don’t miss your chance to find out. 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 2. Stage AE, North Side. stageae.com

Nora was decades ahead of the curve when she walked out on her family in Ibsen’s 1879 A Doll’s House. The sequel (written in 2017) has Nora returning home 15 years later as she negotiates a return to her old life under new conditions. Pittsburgh Public Theater brings this production to the O’Reilly Theater from Thu. March 7- Sun. April 7. $3070. ppt.org

84. Chingy: What’s Chingy

missed Homestead native Tamara Tunie in The Tempest, you’ll get another shot as she co-stars in playwright Jen Silverman’s The Roommate. $15-6. March 2-23. City Theater South Side. citytheatrecompany.org.

been up to, you ask? The rapper, responsible for such bangers as “Right Thurr” and “Holidae In,” has a new single, “On Go,” which some might argue is better than it has a right to be. He’s also touring, and will appear in Pittsburgh along with some other hit-makers of the early-aughts: B2K, Omarion, Pretty Ricky, Lloyd and Ying Yang Twins. 8 p.m. Friday, March 8. Petersen Events Center, Oakland. $45.50-99.50. peterseneventscenter.com

82. Mac-N-Cheese Cook-off:

85. Food Truck A Palooza:

81. The Roommate: If you

Do you have a winning mac-ncheese recipe? Why keep it to yourself? Compete in the Mac-NCheese Cook-off at Double L. Or, if you’re more of an expert eater, you can come taste all of the entries and cast your vote. 1 p.m. Sun., March 3. Double L Pub, Millvale. $10. tinyurl. com/pghmaccheese

83. A Doll’s House Part 2:

16 | JAN. 22, 2019 | PITTSBURGH CURRENT

If you think you can’t enjoy your favorite food trucks during a Pittsburgh winter, you’re wrong. Food Truck A Palooza gathers all the best food trucks, along with crafters, vendors, live music and games in one location. 12 p.m. Sat., March 9. Monroeville Convention Center, Monroeville. goodtastepittsburgh. com

86.

Don’t abandon your bike just because of the cold weather: You can still commute on two wheels, you just have to make some adjustments. Here are a few tips from BikePGH’s website: Layer your clothing, put on tires with heavier tread, and if the weather gets too bad, walk or take the bus.

87. Camille A. Brown and

Dancers: Brown is a gifted, “prolific black female choreographer whose work examines the cultural narrative of African American identity. A Jacob’s Pillow Dance Award-winner and Guggenheim Fellowship-recipient, her bold work taps into both ancestral stories and contemporary culture to capture a range of deeply personal experiences.” 8 p.m. Sat., March 9-10. August Wilson Center, Downtown. Trustarts.org

88. Comedian Mo Alexander: Performing since 1996, Alexander has made a name for himself both on the road and by working with some of comedy’s biggest names. He’s opened for Keenan Ivory Wayans. In 2003 he headlined his own show at Casino Royale in Las Vegas. 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Sat., March 9. Burning Bridges Comedy Club, Lawrenceville. $10. burningbridgescomedyclub.com

89. Lords of Acid: There’s

no better cure for the winter doldrums than a bit of soul-warming hedonism. And how better to indulge than to the drug-fueled sounds of Lords of Acid? With Belgium’s Praga Khan at the helm, the band has undergone various lineup changes over the past couple decades. But–along with a new record, last year’s Pretty in Kink–the band (via press release) promises to bring us “a new crew of deviants, dilettantes and sonically transmitted diseases.” 5:30 p.m. Sunday, March 10. Rex Theater, South Side. $23.5026. rextheater.net

90.

critical acclaim. The forty questions were asked of undocumented Latinx children facing deportation. This presentation is part of the Ten Evenings Speakers’ Series from Pittsburgh Arts and Lectures. 7:30 p.m. Mon. March 11. Carnegie Music Hall, Oakland. $15-35. pittsburghlectures.org

92. Golden Heart Gala: This

gala brings a “wee bit o’ Ireland” to LeMont to benefit the Vincentian Senior Communities. Raise a glass, raise a paddle and raise merriment on St. Patrick’s Eve as you enjoy a cocktail reception, silent auction, sit-down dinner party and more. 6 p.m. Sat., March 16. LeMont, Mt. Washington. facebook.com/VCSCare

WWE Raw Live: The stars of the WWE’s red brand role into town less than a month out from Wrestlemania. These are the shows that set up the WWE’s biggest event of the year and PPG Paints Arena is host to one. See stars like Dan Ambrose, Seth Rollins, Rhonda Rousey and Braun Strohman. 7:30 p.m. Mon., March 11. $30-500. ppgpaintsarena.com

Caterpillar: Eric Carle’s most famous children’s books as well as four others will delight young viewers and their parents at this giant puppet show. 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Sat., March 16. Byham Theater, Downtown. $25. culturaldistrict.com

91. Valeria Luiselli - Novelist &

94. Mariah Carey: Joining in

Essayist Presented by Pittsburgh Arts & Lectures: If we are going to have meaningful conversations about the effects of American policies on immigrant children, people like Mexican author Valeria Luiselli should be leading it. Her latest, Tell Me How It Ends: An Essay in Forty Questions, has reached

93. The Very Hungry

on an internet fad, Mariah Carey recently tweeted two identical, sideby-side selfies. “I don’t get this 10 year challenge,” she wrote. “[T]ime is not something I acknowledge.” In other words, it’s Mariah’s time-space continuum, we’re just living in it. Just one of many reasons not to miss the pop goddess when she brings her

Caution World Tour to town. 8 p.m. Monday, March 18. Benedum Center, Downtown. $64.95-499.95. trustarts. org

95. Irish Genealogy Workshop: Want to learn more about your Irish roots? Join Irish genealogy experts Fintan Mullan and Gillian Hunt from the Ulster Historical Foundation in Belfast for the fifth annual Irish Genealogy Workshop featuring new topics on the rich genealogical sources found in Ireland. 9 a.m. Mon., March 18. Heinz History Center, Strip District. heinzhistorycenter.org

96. Dale Watson and Kinky

98.

Martha Redbone Roots Project Quartet: Martha Redbone is the real deal when it comes to Americana Roots music. She grew up in Appalachia before moving to Brooklyn and her story comes through in her music. The show is Presented by Calliope House at Carnegie Lecture Hall, Oakland. 7:30 p.m. Sat. March 23. $20-$45. calliopehouse.org

Friedman, Lonestar Legends: These two Texas Troubadors have been through Pittsburgh many times, but this is the first time they’ve come through together on a tour called: Long Tales and Short Songs. Watson is the traditional honky-tonker and keeper of the flame for the sound that used to be called country music. Friedman is an author, singer, songwriter and possibly the lone Jewish Cowboy in the world. 8 p.m., Fri. March 22. Hard Rock Cafe, Station Square. $18. druskyentertainment.com

97.

Vintage Pittsburgh 2019: Do you have a passion for thrifting or all things antique? Shop ‘til you drop at the seventh annual Vintage

Pittsburgh retro fair, presented by the Heinz History Center and The Neighborhood Flea. You’ll find clothes, accessories, home decor, records and many other treasures. 10 a.m. Sat., March 23. Heinz History Center, Strip District. Free. heinzhistorycenter.org

99. Disney in Concert: The

Pittsburgh Symphony plays all of your favorite Disney classics led by conductor Andrés Franco. Fri. March 29-Sun. March 31. Heinz Hall, Downtown. $22-99.

100. Scream at

your favorite meteorologist through social media after you bought three ton of rock salt based on their forecasts!

PITTSBURGH CURRENT | JAN. 22, 2019 | 17

ART

The Tempest Rehearsal. Current Photo by Jake Mysliwczyk

WINDS OF CHANGE

TAMARA TUNIE RETURNS TO PITTSBURGH FOR PUBLIC THEATER’S ADAPTATION OF SHAKESPEARE’S ‘TEMPEST’ BY AMANDA REED - PITTSBURGH CURRENT STAFF WRITER AMANDA@PITTSBURGHCURRENT.COM

he role of Prospero in William Shakespeare’s The Tempest has been played by a woman before — take the 2010 movie adaptation with Helen Mirren or a 2017 production at St. Ann Warehouse in New York City, for example. But Tamara Tunie — the accomplished actor, Homestead native and Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) alumnae who currently plays Prospero in artistic director Marya Sea Kaminski’s adaptation of the Bard’s work at Pittsburgh Public Theater (PPT) — hopes her rendition of the classic character can inspire young actors of color, who feel the same desire for representation that Tunie had when she was young.

“They can see through me, and through this opportunity that I’m having, that there’s an opportunity for them as well,” Tunie told the Current. It’s this championing of representation that drives Kaminski’s adaptation of The Tempest, which begins previews Jan. 24 and runs through Feb. 24. A diverse female cast of different ages and races, come together to retell the Bard’s tale of betrayal and forgiveness. The play begins in an oncology ward, where Prospero (Tunie), a former oncologist, is fighting late-stage breast cancer. Soon, the audience is transported to a wintery fever dream from Prospero’s imagination, where she is a powerful sorceress coming to terms with her

18 | JAN. 22, 2019 | PITTSBURGH CURRENT

illness and its effect on those around her. The adaptation runs about 90 minutes without an intermission — the play is usually three hours long — with 95 percent of Shakespeare’s original dialogue in iambic pentameter. Although The Tempest was believed to be Shakespeare’s last play, the production marks a first for Kaminski; this is the first production she’s directing at PPT since assuming the title of artistic director in fall of 2018. Typically, The Tempest takes place on a tropical island. But, a past trip to Iceland inspired Kaminski to change the play’s climate. “The Tempest is set in this place where the weather can kill you,

right? The weather is very dangerous, it is assertive, it is really a character in the play,” Kaminski says. “And also in Iceland, they believe in magic. They actually believe that the island is inhabited by spirits of little people. And while I was there I was like, ‘Oh, this is lifted off the page of The Tempest.’ Kaminski conceptualized the play during last year’s #MeToo movement after wanting to stage a version of the play with a female Prospero. Although the play is not directly tied to #MeToo — it focuses more on Prospero’s spiritual journey caused by her breast cancer — the moment in time made Kaminski think about gender, leading her to select an allfemale cast. “I’m actually hoping it removes gender,” Kaminsky says. “By having it all women, I actually think we can surface something that’s a little more universal about it and a little more primal.” By also setting it in an oncology ward, Kaminski hopes to ground the play’s core ideas — like betrayal and forgiveness — in real-life moments audience members can relate to. “Rather than talking about big concepts, we’re talking about real experience,” she says. With the concept down, Kaminski set out to cast her production. Kaminski, who followed Tunie’s work in the past, reached out to see if the award-winning actress would like to be involved. “Inviting those folks [CMU alumni] back to the city and back to our stage really aligns with some of the bigger ideas that I’m hoping to achieve here at the Pittsburgh Public [Theater],” Kaminski says. Tunie, when approached, thought that the idea of an African-American, female Prospero was “brilliant,” and said yes. “It’s an opportunity that, after speaking with Marya on the telephone, I seized upon,” Tunie said. Tunie’s own personal connection to cancer also inspired her to join the cast. A friend with cancer experienced similar feelings about

Law and Order star Tamara Tunie in Rehearsal for The Tempest. Current Photo by Jake Mysliwczyk

her condition akin to what Prospero experiences in The Tempest, which moved Tunie. “It wasn’t breast cancer but I remember having a conversation with her and about how frustrated and angry she was at her own body and how betrayed she felt by her own body,” Tunie said. “So, that really kind of resonated in a profound way for me and I desperately wanted to

be a part of this.” Shammen McCune, who plays Caliban, believes the production is a chance to portray a “bucket-list character.” “To have a crack at it, given that it’s an all-female cast is a ridiculously marvelous gift,” McCune says. McCune says that Caliban, who is typically depicted as a Creature From the Black Lagoon-esque character,

is given a more philosophical treatment to explore what it means to be a monster and who becomes one in the play. “I thought, ‘Well wouldn’t it be interesting if we didn’t do that, but how do we make the monster? What is it about a monster?’” she says. McCune said that the show’s connection to breast cancer will help audience members empathize with those who have any form of the disease, which affects about 40% of men and women at some point in their lives, according to the National Cancer Institute. “We all know someone who has been affected by cancer […] or directly related to somebody who is dealing with cancer,” McCune said. Tunie, an accomplished film and television actor probably best known for playing Dr. Melinda Warren on Law and Order: SVU, last appeared in Pittsburgh at City Theatre with her holiday cabaret, Legends of the Burgh in 2016. However, The Tempest marks her longest stay in the area since

graduating from CMU in 1981. After The Tempest ends its run in February, Tunie and Tempest castmate Laurie Klatscher head to City Theatre to begin rehearsals for The Roommate, which runs from March 2-24. Tunie will also join the City Theatre Board of Directors in 2019. Tunie, however, believes this production is more than an opportunity to come home. It’s a chance to break barriers and tell a story worth retelling. “It was a thrilling opportunity for me to come home and be part of something that I think is going to be really unique and really special,” Tunie said. “And I think it’s really going to resonate with the audience in a magical and stirring way.”

THE TEMPEST.

Pittsburgh Public Theater at the O’Reilly Theater. 8 p.m. Jan. 24 through Feb. 24. 412-316-1600 or www.ppt.org

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Photo: Bob Gore

HAND TO HAND

‘DAPLINE!’ EXAMINES THE CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE THE HANDSHAKE HAS HAD IN AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY BY STEVE SUCATO - PITTSBURGH CURRENT CONTRIBUTING WRITER INFO@PITTSBURGHCURRENT.COM

n acronym for “Dignity and Pride” coined by black combat troops during the Vietnam War, the “DAP” or “dapping” refers to the intricate handshakes that served as greetings between those troops and later young black men in the United States. Not to be confused with the choreographed or expressive handshakes seen by sports teams in celebration, dapping carries a deeper intimacy and meaning, says LaMont Hamilton, one of the cocreators of Renegade Performance Group’s production, Dapline!. The troupe will perform the work Friday, Feb. 1 at Downtown’s August Wilson Center in partnership with HI-ARTS. “The DAP has a specific lineage and social meaning and is part of the coded languages used within every idiom of Blackness throughout history,” says André M. Zachery, the production’s other co-creator/

choreographer. Zachery, a Brooklyn-based interdisciplinary artist who earned a BFA from the Ailey/Fordham and an MFA in Performance & Interactive Media Arts (PIMA) from Brooklyn College says Dapline! is not solely focused on the theatrics of the DAP or the handshakes themselves. “This performance is getting into the real moments of exhaustion, joy and celebration of testimony that has created what the DAP is,” Zachery said. “We really get behind the energy and these narratives over time. Some that have been translated and passed down, others specifically from moments in time like the Vietnam War and the Black Art and Black Power movements and seeing how those relate to the present.” And while the DAP has been around for a half century, Hamilton, an interdisciplinary artist based in Chicago who works primarily in photography, film and performance,

20 | JAN. 22, 2019 | PITTSBURGH CURRENT

said it really hasn’t evolved in so much as it has carried on over time. “It is a specific community that embeds the communication inside a handshake,” Hamilton said. “The general sense of comradery, fellowship and belonging are there but a specific code is not necessarily passed down to the next generation. The theatrics however, is just as complex as it was in the 60s and 70s as it is today.” Premiered in 2016, Dapline! is the performative element of Hamilton’s visual art project Five on the Black Hand Side. In Pittsburgh, four dancers will perform the hour-long work to a soundtrack of the dancers’ own body percussion along with improvised vocals by Yaw Agyeman that will take the audience on a journey as to what DAP is, where it came from and where it is going. “It is an impressionistic view of this landscape that is primarily one of African American males of

a certain age and all the things that make up this landscape now and throughout its history,” Hamilton said. Brian Seibert of The New York Times said of Dapline!: “It’s both confrontational and intimate, the way that dapping can be both an expression of brotherhood and akin to the antler clashing of rutting moose.” Having seen video excerpts of the production, it is visually that and emotionally so much more.

RENEGADE PERFORMANCE GROUP PERFORMS ‘DAPLINE!’ 8 p.m., Friday, February 1, August Wilson Center, 980 Liberty Ave., Downtown. $23.75-33.75. trustarts. org.

Refik Anadol — January 25–April 7 — Wood Street Galleries 601 Wood Street, above the “T” / 412 471 5605 gallery hours: Wednesday, Thursday: 11am–6pm; Friday, Saturday: 11am–8pm Sunday: 11am–5pm (free on-street parking) / free and open to the public WoodStreetGalleries.org /woodstgalleries @woodstreetpgh

/woodstreetgalleries

A project of:

image: Infinity Room, 2015; Istanbul, Turkey

PITTSBURGH CURRENT | JAN. 22, 2019 | 21

Author, photographer and documentarian Tom Hansell. Photo courtesy of Hansell

‘AFTER COAL’

BOOK EXAMINES THE COMMUNITIES LEFT BEHIND WHEN MINES SHUT DOWN BY JODY DIPERNA - PITTSBURGH CURRENT CONTRIBUTING WRITER INFO@PITTSBURGHCURRENT.COM

n the coal fields of West Virginia and Kentucky and patches just south of Pittsburgh, miners have done some of the dirtiest, most dangerous and demanding work there is, all the while fighting for every penny and benefit squeezed out of them by mine owners. But there is real pride in the work and the place. A strong sense of kinship among miners and mining families is just one piece of the puzzle that is the Appalachian relationship with coal mining, the land and the economies of mining. After Coal: Stories of Survival in Appalachia and Wales, was recently released by the West Virginia University Press. At a time

when nuanced understandings of Appalachia have been in short supply and coal has become a shabby shorthand for political pundits, After Coal seeks to examine just what happens when industry goes away. What happens, not just to workers, but to cities and towns, to entire communities? How can the people not just survive but flourish? “It started as a photography project, but ended up combining a lot of public engagement,” author Tom Hansell told the Current by phone from his home near Boone, North Carolina, where he teaches at the Center for Appalachian Studies at Appalachian State University. “This project included a significant

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element of having public forums. Lots of photographs are involved, of course, as well as the documentary film and the book. I call it a documentary and community engagement project, which I know is a bit of a mouthful.” Hansell immersed himself in coal country in Kentucky and West Virginia and he also spent time in Wales, where communities had likewise dealt with the the deleterious effects of coal mining and it’s decline. The book serves as a sort of conversation between Wales and Appalachia, with evocative photography and straightforward, graceful prose. Hansell writes that he hoped to find a magic bullet or

magic formula in Wales. But that was not to be. The one thing that he has seen work is listening to people on the ground. “Back when I first started filming the documentary [around 2011], this kind of divisive dialogue was really present in Appalachia,” Hansell said of his experience. “Everywhere you went, people felt like they were forced to take sides -- pro coal or pro environment. [That] really limits your options. If you think about procommunity, then you’ve got a lot more to work with. “You hear people say that a lot. One of the miner’s I interviewed said, ‘I miss the men, but I don’t

miss the work.’ Just looking at statistics or turning on the news, it would be easy to be pessimistic. Cases of black lung and silicosis have risen in recent years. Large swaths of Appalachia still don’t have broadband internet. Unemployment rates are high, with parts of eastern Kentucky and southern West Virginia, as high as 14 percent according to the Appalachian Regional Commission. The damage to the environment through hilltop removal and the defiling of water will take many years to fix. But there is real beauty and strength in the region and the people. Hansell’s project got people talking and together they started asking what could they do to save these communities. Increased local control of the land itself is a big issue for the area: anywhere from 50 to 75 percent of the land in West Virginia’s southern coalfields are still owned by corporations headquartered outside the state according to a 2013 study by the WV Center on Budget & Policy. Where there is local control of land, good things are happening. In one instance, a former miner started a farmer’s market. A local health care provider now gives tokens to some of it’s patients to use for produce at the farmer’s market. They are essentially being prescribed healthy food, where the entire community benefits.” What Hansell saw in both Wales and Appalachia is that there is strength in building community. “We’ve been a lot more dependent on each other than we care to admit a lot of times,” Hansell said. Tom Hansell will discuss the book, the movie and the photography project with Angela Wiley, a documentary film producer and librarian with the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh at White Whale Books in Bloomfield on Saturday, Jan. 26th at 7:00 p.m. After Coal by Tom Hansell PITTSBURGH CURRENT | JAN. 22, 2019 | 23

MUSIC

Mars Jackson. Current Photo by Jake Mysliwczyk

ACTION JACKSON

AFTER A BIG YEAR, RAPPER MARS JACKSON SETS HIS SIGHTS ON THE ROAD BY MARGARET WELSH - PITTSBURGH CURRENT MUSIC EDITOR MARGARET@PITTSBURGHCURRENT.COM

or Mars Jackson, 2018 was a year of momentum-building. In January, he released the single, “Heart Dance,” a winkingly grown ‘n’ sexy track studded with some unabashed Michael Jackson worship. Then in May, he followed that up with his first full-length, Good Days Never Last Forever, which was met with positive responses from local hip-hop fans and media alike. With that came more opportunities to perform, collaborate and grow as an artist. On Feb. 9, for example, he’ll headline at Mr. Smalls, his first performance with a full band.

“I went above and beyond what I had to do,” Jackson reflected, leaning forward on his seat and glancing out the big windows of a Point Breeze coffee shop. But even so, he didn’t do everything he wanted to do last year. “I wish I’d have been able to tour more,” he said. “I’ve always wanted to tour. My first show that I did out of town last year was in New Jersey … Things like that, I always wanted to do it.” As with everything else, he’s willing to put in the work, adding, “There’s nothing in the city of Pittsburgh that’s actually helping artists in the area of touring.” As the first-ever hip-hop artist

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to sign to the Pittsburgh-based, nationally-focused label Misra Records, Jackson is in a better position than many to find that kind of support. While Misra is a small, independent label with limited resources, they do provide financial assistance to touring artists. “With Mars it’s a little too early to tell what we’ll be doing,” Misra’s general manager Jeff Betten said in a later phone call. “But … we’re basically willing to do whatever it’s going to take.” Jackson, who studied public relations at Slippery Rock University, works hard to make connections

around the city and would love to meet with local booking agencies and music industry professionals to discuss how to potentially encourage local musicians to get out on the road. That, along with his own desire to tour, reflects not only a love for the Pittsburgh scene, but a willingness to hustle, to show up, to get in front of people and show what he’s got. “When you’re an indie artist you have to just throw yourself out there,” Jackson said. “You have to go out of town. You might rock in front of five or 10 people: act like you’re in front of 100 people. … Everything can’t be done through internet and email.”

Current Comics

Matt Bors

18 | OCT. 23, 2018 | PITTSBURGH CURRENT

ANDREA SHOCKLING

Sucks to Be an Animal

By Sienna Cittadino

CARTOONISTS CARTOONISTS WANTED WANTED pittsburgh current is looking for local artists who would like to have their comics featured on our twice-monthly funny pages.

email: charlie@pittsburghcurrent.com

PITTSBURGH CURRENT | OCT. 23, 2018 | 19

Rob Jones

SYNONYM RAISIN

20 | OCT. 23, 2018 | PITTSBURGH CURRENT

by Andrew Schubert

PITTSBURGH CURRENT | OCT. 23, 2018 | 21

It’s not stardom, per se, that’s motivating Jackson. “I have this piece of artwork. I don’t think of it being just a local piece of music.” Jackson grew up around music: both his grandfather and greatgrandfather were musicians, and his uncles, who all liked different genres, shared all of it with him. “I knew rock, I knew R&B, soul… music was always played in my house.” In school he was assigned a violin instead of his first choice, drums, but went with it anyway. “Growing up in a single-parent household, I always wanted to be part of something, I wanted to be part of a team,” Jackson said. “So I kept myself around music and sports, so whether I was singing in the choir at church or the ensemble at school, my mom kept me and my sister very active.” He loved Outkast and Kanye, as well as the punk and indie rock

bands like Green Day and Jimmy Eat World he heard on video game soundtracks. “When we were signing Mars we were talking about how he was really inspired by Pink Floyds’ The Dark Side of the Moon,” Betten recalled. “He ended up using a couple interludes on Good Days Never Last Forever, and he was using the The Great Gig in the Sky as a reference point. And that really blew me away.” “You want to make sure the music is good … [With Misra] I was able to get tools and learn, put myself in a different atmosphere,” Jackson said. “I guess I’m an alternative hip-hop artist, but I go where the vibes are. If the music is good, I’m going with it.” The upbeat eclecticism Good Days Never Last Forever has garnered comparisons to the pop sensibility and energy of artists like Chance the Rapper and Pharrell. Thirty-two years old and recently Mars Jackson. Current Photo by Jake Mysliwczyk

“On the Inside” - An Immersive Jam with BOOM Concepts Thursday, February 28, 2019 doors open at 6pm concert 7 PM at Community Forge, Wilkinsburg light refreshments served by everyday’s a sundae Classical, Jazz & Hip-Hop

Tracksploitation; Shanyse Strickland, french horn; Ben Broshe, keyboard; Shad Ali, MC; Anqwenique, vocalist; Julie Mallis, visuals

Pay-What-You-Wish! ($15 Recommended)

JAZZ

Tickets & Info: 412-624-4129 chambermusicpittsburgh.org PITTSBURGH CURRENT | JAN. 22, 2019 | 29

engaged, his concerns tend towards the domestic, whether that’s working through problems of the past, celebrating present love, or guarding against potential threats to his current happiness. “I just know my space of writing now is not all about, ‘I got left out!’ or ‘I’m trying to be number one!’,” Jackson said. “That’s not growth. Right now life is good for me, I’m happy and healthy and I want to keep people dancing.” The Paul Keys Band will back up Jackson at the upcoming Mr. Smalls show. Benji, a frequent Jackson collaborator and recent Misra signee appears as well, along with Clara Kent (who is on Misra’s sister label Dauntless Records) and Isaiah Small. Jackson is excited for the energy that comes with a live backing band, something he experienced hosting the Spirit Sessions open mic nights in Lawrenceville. “It’s a lot of work compared to having a DJ [where] you and he go up and have your set ready to go. But a band makes everything sound so much better,” Jackson said. “I’m giving you the rawness of what you would see if I was in the studio.” That’s the sort of adaptability that will likely serve him well as he plans to head out of town. “I’ll probably be booking my own shows,” Jackson said with a conspiratorial smile. “Or I’ll do what I did when I first started: Make a fake email and represent myself.” “I’m all about just trying to get in front of a new crowd,” Jackson continued. “New crowds, nobody I ever saw before, and just giving them a first impression of me. And usually I grab people and they’re like, ‘Yeah, this guy right here.’” Good days may not last forever, but Jackson seems to have enough in his future to last awhile.

MARS JACKSON, BENJI, ISAIAH SMALL, CLARA KENT.

Mars Jackson. Current Photo by Jake Mysliwczyk 30 | JAN. 22, 2019 | PITTSBURGH CURRENT

8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 9. Mr. Smalls Theatre, 400 Lincoln Ave., Millvale. $10. All ages. www.mrsmalls.com

The Bad Plus. Photo courtesy of Shervin Lainez

PLUS ONE

WITH PIANIST ORRIN EVANS, JAZZ TRIO THE BAD PLUS CONTINUES ITS ‘FAMILY-STYLE ART PROJECT’ BY MIKE SHANLEY - PITTSBURGH CURRENT CONTRIBUTING WRITER INFO@PITTSBURGHCURRENT.COM

hroughout its existence, the Bad Plus has continually challenged the expectations of what a piano trio should sound like. From the early, brash interpretations of Nirvana and Black Sabbath, through reinventions of Igor Stravinsky and a wealth of intriguing originals, the members have proven that their work might

have a sprinkle of irreverence, but they are far from a novelty act. Part of this can be attributed to the band’s egalitarian ways. While many jazz groups revolve around a leader who calls the shots, Bad Plus members Ethan Iverson (piano), Dave King (drums) and Reid Anderson (bass) each contributed to the personality and sound of the music.

When Iverson announced in early 2017 that he was leaving the band, he claimed that “his statement had been made” after 17 years in the group. According to one article, he also didn’t want the band to continue. It makes sense. While many jazz groups can stay on track with a new pianist, Iverson’s distinct style — a blend of classical chops

and Keith Jarrett-style lyricism — was part of the Bad Plus design. His bandmates considered retiring the name, until pianist Orrin Evans agreed to join. Evans, a prolific pianist out of Philadelphia, is no stranger to Pittsburgh, having played with his electric band Luvpark during the heyday of East Liberty’s Shadow

PITTSBURGH CURRENT | JAN. 22, 2019 | 31

Lounge. He has also recorded several straight-ahead acoustic albums as a leader, and with trumpeter Sean Jones. At the piano, he plays with a distinct tone, crisp and intense without ever sounding too heavy. Yet he leaves an impression similar to a player like McCoy Tyner. If anyone could fill the spot vacated by Iverson, Evans is definitely the man for the job. The band, with Evans, told DownBeat magazine last spring how it feels to continue with a new member. “It’s not that we have to continue this band because it’s part of our living,” King said. “It’s always been this family-style art project. Not to sound pretentious, but it’s always been where these leaders come together and they share the space.” In the same article, Evans made it clear that he could fit in and maintain his personality. “Every time I get on the bandstand, I hope and pray it’s

going to be a collective experience,” Evans said. “Maybe here, the fact that you’re playing everyone’s compositions — you’re getting to know everyone compositionally — really lets you into another part of their soul.”

THE BAD PLUS.

8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 24. August Wilson Center – African American Cultural Center, 980 Liberty Avenue, Downtown. $41.75. 412-456-6666 or www.aacc-awc.org

32 | JAN. 22, 2019 | PITTSBURGH CURRENT

GALLERY

CRAWL in the Cultural District

Featured:

Refik Anadol Wood Street Galleries

Winter 2019 Friday, January 25 5:30 – 10 pm

The power of hope REFIK ANADOL WOOD STREET GALLERIES

DANCEFILM, AN EXPLORATION SPACE

TERENCE CHIN-LOY ASHLEY FABIAN

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SILENT DISCO TRUST ARTS EDUCATION CENTER

as Ilia

CAITLIN GOTIMER

as Elettra

ANTONIA BOTTI-LODOVICO

as Idamante

• January 26, 29; February 1, 3 • Pittsburgh CAPA Theater, 111 9th Street, Downtown • 412-456-6666 • pittsburghopera.org/afterwards UNDERSTAND EVERY WORD: With projected English supertitles

TRUS TARTS.ORG/Crawl Tuesday Night Sponsor: Ambridge Regional Distribution & Manufacturing Center

Season Sponsor

PITTSBURGH CURRENT | JAN. 22, 2019 | 33

FOOD

Straw Forward Exhibit. Current Photo by Jake Mysliwczyk

STRAW FORWARD

BRINGS THE PLASTIC STRAW POLLUTION CONVERSATION TO PITTSBURGH WITH NEW EXHIBIT BY HALEY FREDERICK - PITTSBURGH CURRENT STAFF WRITER HALEY@PITTSBURGHCURRENT.COM

mong the national conversations that garnered major attention in 2018, perhaps the most unexpected was that of the plastic straw. Seattle became the first U.S. city to ban plastic straws and utensils in July of last year. Since then, others like San Francisco, Malibu and D.C. have followed with prohibitions of their own. Even the state of California has passed an ordinance on how restaurants use straws. As several other cities and states debate the issue of such singleuse plastics—that is items that are used just once before being thrown away—the city of Pittsburgh has yet to make an official entrance into the conversation. Straw Forward could be the start.

“I think that creating art is such a unique, Pittsburgh way to respond to something,” Sarah Mayer said. Mayer is a partner at Shift Collaborative, the marketing group that pitched the idea for a plastic straw collection project to Sustainable Pittsburgh Restaurant last May. Together, they planned to gather straws from local restaurants and turn them into an art installation. Sustainable Pittsburgh Restaurant is a program of Sustainable PIttsburgh through which restaurants can be designated as achieving one of four levels of sustainability—bronze, silver, gold or platinum—by meeting certain criteria in the areas of social, economic and environmental

34 | JAN. 22, 2019 | PITTSBURGH CURRENT

sustainability. From June to October, Sustainable Pittsburgh Restaurant and Shift Collaborative collected more than 25,000 straws for the project. “We started with 10 restaurants and it grew pretty quickly to the point that we were at 37 participants in the end,” Rebecca Bykoski, program manager of Sustainable Pittsburgh Restaurant said. “Most were restaurants; there were some universities, hospitals, Patagonia Pittsburgh served as a public collection point.” Even before construction of the art installation began, the project was already having an effect. Simply collecting used straws brought awareness to the problem.

“[The owner of Bae Bae’s Kitchen] said that once he saw the sheer volume of straws that they were producing within their waste stream they immediately made the switch to paper straws,” Bykoski said. Throughout the project, Mayer found that they were teaching people something that she had taken for granted as common knowledge. “I was really surprised by how many people I encountered that didn’t know that you couldn’t recycle straws,” Mayer said. “It is a little plastic thing and it seems like you could recycle it, but it gums up the recycling machine.” This little piece of information answers the question so many people had last year: what’s the big deal about straws?

First, the straw does present a problem when it comes to recycling. It’s true that recycling systems are not fit to handle straws, if they even make it that far. Most straws are used in places like restaurants, coffee shops or bars, so whether there is even an attempt to recycle them is out of the consumer’s hands. If straws do make it into a recycling bin, their small size makes them prone to slipping out of the waste stream and eventually ending up on beaches and in waterways. In 2015, a study in Science magazine estimated that there were 7.5 billion straws on America’s shores. Straws are one of the top polluters found on beaches. Secondly, the plastic straw is a symbol. The push for reusable bags and water bottles started years ago, but until recently when the #StopSucking campaign took off, straws have flown under the radar. Bags and bottles have real, practical uses, while for most of us, straws are entirely unnecessary. Straws represent an opportunity to be mindful of our impact. “With straws it’s easy to visualize how much waste is generated every time a beverage is ordered. Whether or not you want it, you’re often times given a straw right in your drink or thrown on the table,” Bykoski said. “It’s so pervasive and it’s just an easy way to start a conversation.” “People can connect to it, see it and think twice about it, and understand from a consumer perspective what you can do as an individual to make a difference,” Bykoski continued. Straw Forward, then, would hold up all of this needless waste in front of us—25,000 straws brought together in one exhibit to bring consumers face to face with the choices we all thoughtlessly make every day. Before they could be assembled, the straws were washed, dried, counted and sorted in preparation. Anthony Closky, project manager at Shift Collaborative, spearheaded the installation’s design. The finished piece, which is on display at Carnegie Science Center

until Feb. 15, is a nine-by-nine-foot square and is more than nine feet tall. It features two main layers: above the water, a massive seagull made out of hundreds of classic white straws flies with outstretched wings and a beak full of seaweed. Under the surface, colorful creatures and corals reside. An estimated 2,200 hours went into the exhibit’s construction. “We chose the marine scene because ultimately when we think about plastic pollution, a lot of the littered plastics end up in our waterways,” Bykoski said. “They end up on the sidewalk and it rains and they get washed into the storm drains and then they get washed into the river and then from the river they flow down into the ocean.” While straws are certainly front and center in the installation, they aren’t the only plastics featured. The project used yarn made out of plastic bottles through Thread International, as well as things like bags, bubble wrap and other repurposed waste materials from Construction Junction and the Pittsburgh Center for Creative Reuse. They even recovered litter from the banks of the Allegheny River through Allegheny Cleanways. “We wouldn’t have been able to complete the project in such a magnificent way without their contributions,” Mayer said. “That terrific collaboration I think is indicative of how Pittsburgh approaches things like this.” And now because these groups were brought together through the Straw Forward project, they’re thinking about what else they may be able to accomplish. “We’ve been talking about maybe convening these organizations now that we’re all together and thinking about what we can do that might lead to some future policy recommendations for plastics within the city of Pittsburgh and how to better engage our fellow Pittsburghers within these efforts,” Bykoski said. Another organization that provided their expertise to

Straw Forward Exhibit. Current Photo by Jake Mysliwczyk

Straw Forward is Best Buddies Pennsylvania, a nonprofit that focuses on the needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. “Really this whole project was about creating meaningful conversation around these global issues of plastic pollution, and so in order to do that we need to make sure that we’re incorporating all angles of sustainability, not just environmental but the social as well and understanding that straws and other single-use plastic items can sometimes be a necessity for people with certain disabilities or medical conditions,” Bykoski said. Because of what they learned from Best Buddies, Bykoski always recommends that the businesses that participate in Sustainable Pittsburgh Restaurant keep a small amount of wrapped plastic straws on hand in order to be inclusive to all customers. Most restaurants in the program have adopted an “ask first” or “wait to be asked” policy, where they only give straws to customers who indicate they want them, instead of automatically placing them in drinks or on the table. In California, all restaurants must operate this way by law. While this is a highly effective

strategy for reducing the use of plastic straws, the law does not apply to some of the biggest offenders like fast-food chains and coffee shops. In the meantime, the Straw Forward exhibit has started a conversation. Countless visitors, children and their parents will see the artwork and the informational signs that recommend more environmentally friendly practices and state facts like, “50% of the plastic we use is used just once and thrown away.” Adults can also attend a free presentation on Feb. 4 at Carnegie Science Center about Straw Forward and plastic pollution. Young or old, the exhibit carries a message we all can understand. “I had a young lady, she might have been seven or eight, come over and ask what we were doing,” Mayer said. “I explained it to her and her response was, ‘I’m so glad that you’re doing this because I love nature and I want our oceans to be around for a really long time.’”

STRAW FORWARD

is on display in the Carnegie Science Center’s RiverView Café through Fri., Feb. 15. Call 412-237-3400 or visit carnegiesciencecenter.org

PITTSBURGH CURRENT | JAN. 22, 2019 | 35

Current Photo by Jake Mysliwczyk

BAKE SALE

100-YEAR-OLD BLOOMFIELD FAMILY BAKERY SOLD BUT THE OVENS WILL KEEP ON COOKING BY MELANIE LINN GUTOWSKI - PITTSBURGH CURRENT CONTRIBUTING WRITER INFO@PITTSBURGHCURRENT.COM

inding Sanchioli Brothers Bakery is a lot like gaining entry into an underground club: you have to know where to look, because it’s hiding in plain sight. Though it’s tucked into a nondescript garage on Juniper Street in Bloomfield, the regulars know where to go to get the freshest bread in town. Of course, Sanchioli’s golden brown loaves of Italian bread can be purchased at many area grocery stores, including local shops like Donatelli’s, but there’s nothing quite like the bread purchased directly from the source. That source, a nearly century-old oven built by a German immigrant, has never been turned off, according to John Sanchioli, co-owner with his older brother, Alex, until this week. The bakery was sold out of family hands on January 18, with John and his son, Nathan, staying on to bake. Together they represent the third and fourth generations of the family business. John’s grandfather, Alessandro Sanchioli, started the bakery after

immigrating from Northern Italy in the early 1900s. “They knew all these Italian immigrants were coming here,” John says of his grandparents. Alessandro had been trained as a baker in his native country, and with an investor who financed the oven construction, he and his wife Dora set up the bakery operation in 1921. According to Melissa Marinaro, director of the Italian American program at the Heinz History Center, this was a common setup for immigrant food businesses. “Once you have a community, there’s a need there,” she says. “Once Italian immigrant communities formed, we see them importing or recreating the goods they had in the old country. With a bakery, the raw ingredients are inexpensive and aside from the oven, startup costs are low,” she says. “So you start to see many Italians go into the bakery business.” In addition to their bakery, the Sanchioli family also opened a storefront out of their house, just behind the bakery, facing Lorigan Street. A set of stairs led from one

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property to the other. “My dad used to say, ‘I’m the only kid that grew up eating filet mignon during the Depression,’” John says. The family would buy an entire cow for stock, but no one could afford the pricier cuts, so the family ate them at home instead. His father, Isadore, known as ‘Izzy’, took over the bakery with his brother, Guy, after Alessandro’s death in 1956. By then, the grocery operation had closed. Izzy became just as much of a Bloomfield institution as the bakery itself, affectionately known as the “mayor of Lorigan Street.” My family has known the Sanchiolis since the mid-1950s, when my mother, Amy Lombardo Linn, immigrated along with my grandparents and, later, great-grandparents. My mom remembers him personally delivering bread to the family home on S. Matilda Street. “He used to deliver to people’s homes and leave bread in baskets inside their foyer or whatever the arrangement was,” my mom says. “He spoke a little bit of Italian and

he smiled when he saw you. For my grandparents, it was a bright spot in their day to see him.” At that time, in the 1950s and 60s, Izzy would sell day-old bread to his customers at five cents a loaf. My grandmother, Dina Lombardo, used to buy some occasionally. “It was a good way, when [Bloomfield immigrants] were all struggling, to stretch those incomes,” my mom says. My dad, Jack, adds, “knowing Izzy, there were plenty of people who probably paid for a day-old loaf but got a fresh one instead.” John and Alex took over Izzy’s share of the bakery on his retirement. On a recent weekday morning, the affable John Sanchioli was filling customer orders as he talked about his work day. He arrives at the bakery at 1:30 in the morning and spends four hours shoveling dough for bread loaves, dinner rolls, hamburger buns and pizza shells in and out of the oven. Once the day’s deliveries are parceled out, it’s time to make bread crumbs out of yesterday’s bread.

Current Photo by Jake Mysliwczyk PITTSBURGH CURRENT | JAN. 22, 2019 | 37

John grinds the day-old bread in one of his mixers and then passes scoopfuls through a fine-mesh sieve. Some of the resulting breadcrumbs are sold to customers, but the majority are used to keep fresh dough from sticking to the bottom of the gas-fired hearth oven. He then starts mixing tomorrow’s dough. John estimates he goes through about 200 pounds of flour a week making bread, though that is just one of the bakery’s products. It takes about five hours for a loaf of bread to go from raw ingredients to finished product, including two proofings. With his brother ready to retire, John can’t manage alone. “I wouldn’t do it myself without my brother unless somebody came in and helped,” he says. “These aren’t easy businesses,” Marinaro says. “It’s long hours, it’s odd hours, and it can get difficult.” Just as bread is a staple of the Italian diet, family seems to be a

staple of Italian bakeries. Though Sanchioli’s will be sold, both John and his son, Nathan, will stay on to continue baking each day. “You don’t have too many examples of neighborhood bakeries like that anymore,” says Marinaro. “I think of Sanchioli’s as being a Bloomfield thing, an East End thing; it just has such a fan base in those communities. I think because of the great quality and history, people didn’t deviate too much from getting their bread there.” It’s a sentiment my family and I know well. “It was on our table at every meal,” my mom says. “We didn’t waste a crumb. If it got stale, it was grated into breadcrumbs; it was the whole culture of ‘don’t waste a thing’. Five generations of my family have eaten Sanchioli’s bread, from my great-grandparents to my own young children. We couldn’t have a family gathering without it.

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DAY DRINKING:

KEEPING UP WITH PITTSBURGH’S CRAFT BEER SCENE BY DAY BRACEY - PITTSBURGH CURRENT CRAFT BEER WRITER INFO@PITTSBURGHCURRENT.COM Jan 5, 1 p.m.: My fianceé and my mother got together and planned a family outing on my “day off,” and were gracious enough to let me choose the location. Since my mother lives in Rankin, I chose Homestead. I heard that a new

brewery had opened up, making that three in total—the minimum amount of watering holes needed to fashion a crawl. First stop is Rock Bottom. I order a flight and my mother, first lady of her church and a teetotaler, looks at me and says, “You don’t drink like that all the time, do you?” “Of course not,” I lie to her while explaining that this is a job, and my liver is a small sacrifice for the greater good. Christians love that sacrificial shit. I break down the various styles of beer, and how it is now more of an art form than a conduit for debauchery, like the Red & Blue Bulls of her day. I introduce her to the head brewer, Meg Evans, and show her the tanks in the back. She seems intrigued, so much so that by the end of it she asks for a sip. I haven’t seen my mother take a sip of alcohol in more than 20 years. I hand her the Kolsch and by golly she likes it! Not enough to finish the glass, but enough for me to add, “getting mom hammered” to my 2019 goals. Great work, Meg! Jan 5, 6:30 p.m.: I break from the fam and link up with

Ed Bailey over at Voodoo. They’ve got new art on the walls, and Good Vibes is always a solid beer. I see they’re adding something to the building and I ask owner Jake Voelker about it. JV: We plan on building a courtyard where you can enjoy beers outside and bring your dogs, like we used to before we had a kitchen. We’ll also use the space for benefit events that help the local community and humane animal rescue. We’re slating the grand opening for June 1. Jan. 5, 8 p.m.: We walk into Enix. Ed Bailey: This place looks like gentrification. Jan. 12, 1 p.m.: Butler Brew Works has a can release. Bless The Rains is a solid double New England IPA clocking in at eight percent. I’ve been spending a lot of time in Butler County recently. They have a burgeoning scene, and with several breweries slated to open in the next year, the people here will soon see little need to venture into Allegheny. I’m drinking with brewers Travis Tuttle and Nathan Royan. Me: So why “Bless The Rains?” Travis: The main hop in that beer is called African Queen. And “Africa” by Toto is one of the most popular songs of all time. Nathan: The first time I had African Queen was at Fresh Fest. One of the black brewers made a lager or pale ale with it. AB InBev owns that hop, but before they did there was a stockpile that everyone’s been nipping off of, including us. But the brewer at Fresh Fest had this really cool story about someone hopping the fence and stealing the

hops from InBev, and that’s how they got ahold of it. Me: That is the blackest story I’ve ever heard in craft beer! Leave it to black people to bring bootleg hops to a festival. I’ve never been more proud. Where there is no way, we make one. Speaking of African Queens, you know “Africa” is about a white man’s obsession with Black meat mittens, right? Travis: I saw your theory on that, watched the video, read the lyrics, compared it to Toto’s explanation and I’m inclined to believe your version. Me: Tell me about the food and how you craft your menu. Nathan: We owe a lot of that to a great local chef, Bill Atkinson, who runs The Chop Shop across the street. Travis: We teamed up because he’s well respected. People aren’t always open to trying new stuff in this area, but coming from Bill they trust it. We talk about ways to incorporate the beer into the menu, whether it’s a pairing, or as an ingredient such as marinades or sauces. He understands our audience here. Jan. 12, 4p.m.: I finish the trip with a brisket wrap, and a Kolsch that is made entirely from Butler County grown grains. It’s crisp, a little sweet and pairs well with the crack cocaine Bill sprinkled on this beef. I’m hooked! Nathan: That’s actually coffee on the brisket. Yeah, right. Just don’t let this get back to my mom.

PITTSBURGH CURRENT | JAN. 22, 2019 | 39

NEIGHBORHOODS

NEIGHBORHOOD PROFILE:

Current Photo by Jake Mysliwczyk

NORTH SIDE BY BETHANY RUHE - PITTSBURGH CURRENT ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER BETHANY@PITTSBURGHCURRENT.COM

eeking across the river at Downtown is the largest neighborhood in the city of Pittsburgh, the North Side. Perhaps neighborhood is the wrong term. The North Side is comprised of 14 distinct neighborhoods, all of whom have decided to throw their resources together under one umbrella. The wide-ranging North Side is home to some of Pittsburgh’s most iconic landmarks, Heinz Field, PNC Park, Rivers Casino, The Andy Warhol Museum—as well as some of the more off-the-beaten- path, quirky places in the city. Both have worked to forge the identity of the North Side, along with the strongminded people, some might say characters, who call the place home.

“We have a bird zoo,” says Cody Walters, North Side resident, Main Street Director for the North Side Leadership Conference and founder of Deutschtown Music Festival. “Who has a bird zoo?” The North Side also comes complete with its own bigfoot, the Deutschtown Sasquatch. What started as an inside joke between friends, taking photos of a sasquatch action figure out and about at different North Side locations and posting them to social media, quickly took on a larger life of its own. The sasquatch got its own Facebook page and started to become North Side famous. But, it didn’t stop there. A Facebook page became a bar crawl theme, and the bar crawl

40 | JAN. 22, 2019 | PITTSBURGH CURRENT

theme became an idea for a mural. Pittsburgh-based artist Jeremy Raymer got involved, and of course a local resident volunteered the side of a house for it, and viola. Giant Deutschtown Sasquatch. (Raymer also painted the North Side’s most visible mural, the 40-foot Roberto Clemente adorning the side of Verdetto’s, overlooking 279.) The Sasquatch is by no means the only colorful spot in the North Side. Just a few blocks away is a psychedelic riot of public art known as Randyland. Started in 1995 by Randy Gilson, Randyland has, over the years, become one of the most beloved, and one of the most photographed, landmarks in the city. If you haven’t gotten a selfie at the free-to-get-in manifestation

of Gilson’s dedication to spreading happiness, have you even been to Pittsburgh? The North Side is also the proud home of the oldest bartender and the smallest bar in the state of Pennsylvania, mere blocks away from each other. George Martin is going to be 91 next month, and he’s been slinging drinks at Elk’s Lodge 339 for over 45 years. Last year, for his 90th birthday, they celebrated with a 90 Drinks for 90 Years event. The mastermind of the event, Mark Fatla, isn’t just an Elk member; he’s also the Executive Director of the North Side Leadership Conference (NSLC). The NSLC is the city’s only multi-neighborhood community development corporation, which is a very North Side of it.

“Sports? We got Art Rooney Sr., the cigar-chomping, horse-racebetting owner of an NFL team. He was such a character they wrote a one man play about him. Who’s our most prominent business man over here? Gus. The ice ball guy. Our best known business person is an 80 some year old man selling ice balls in the park. Whatever category you pick, we have our characters. We embrace our characters.” He pauses to pick up his accordion and play a quick ditty. If you exit the Elks and walk about three blocks down Pressely Street, you will happen upon The Priory Hotel. The Priory was once just that, a Priory for Benedictine monks. Originally slated for demolition to make way for the 279 feeder, the building was saved when PENNDot

finally came to their senses and realized that maybe they didn’t need to tear down historical landmarks to build their road. The Graf family purchased the building at auction and lovingly restored it to its current splendor. Tucked inside, to the left of the lobby, is the smallest bar in the state of Pennsylvania, Monk’s Bar. With only 14 seats, the warm and cozy spot is perfect for sipping the elaborate craft cocktails they’re serving up. If you’re lucky, Rachel the bartender will tempt you with warm pastries from the Priory Bakery. Fatla’s been known to make the short walk down, and on occasion, take his accordian. Perhaps after a full day of taking selfies at the many Instagram-worthy locations of the North Side, and

Mark Fatla. Current Photo by Jake Mysliwczyk

Fatla is a Friday night staple at the Elk’s. He brings his accordian every week and keeps George company as he tends bar. “[The 90 Drinks event] came up because he said he was working on his birthday. I said, ‘well, if you’re going to be here anyway, let’s make something out of that,’” said Fatla, as he straps on his accordian. And if someone knows how to make something happen, it’s Fatla. He has been a North Side resident since 1984, and executive director of NSLC for many years. Over the years, he’s gleaned some pretty good insights into the North Side and how to work with the people who live and work there. “The North Side is different than other neighborhoods. We have more

than our share of characters, but importantly, we don’t hide them on the back porch. We put them right on the front porch where everyone can see them. George here is a good example. We are going to make sure that everyone gets a chance to meet him at least once a year. He’ll be out on the front porch.” Fatla goes on to break down characters into different categories. “North Side has always been blessed with a parade of characters. Pick any category. In politics it was Tom Murphy, a former seminarian who jogs, to Darlene Harris today. If Darlene Harris ain’t a character, I don’t know who the hell is. In art, for god sakes, Andy freaking Warhol. He didn’t just redefine art, he made everyone question, what is art?” PITTSBURGH CURRENT | JAN. 22, 2019 | 41

Deutschtown Historic District in the North Side. Current Photo by Jake Mysliwczyk

full of pastries and cocktails, you are feeling like supporting local art. Well, you are in luck. North Side has everything from The Mattress Factory to City of Asylum, to the New Hazlett Theater. The New Hazlett Theater is now the primary tenant in the the Carnegie Free Library of Allegheny, the second Carnegie library opened in America and first Carnegie Music Hall ever opened. The theater’s signature program is their Community Supported Art (CSA) Performance Series. CSA helps identify and cultivate local Pittsburgh artists, using the program to not just give them a platform to perform, but to also give them access to marketing and general business support, ensuring their success long after the curtain falls on their run at New Hazlett. There are three works remaining in the season, a long-form story about letting go of shame and being queer and vulnerable, an immersive dance experience, and a work about a

dystopian future in which all animals are now extinct and they dress a human up as a dog to be their pet and spiritual leader. Johnny Angel and the Halos are playing there February 9th. Johnny, you won’t be shocked to find out, is from the North Side. Fatla puts down his accordian. “The folks in these neighborhoods have been working on them and polishing them and strengthening them for all these years, and we are starting to reap the benefit from all the work done in the vineyard. You have these beautiful historic districts, a growing restaurant scene, more live music than any other part of the city,” his voice trails off as he looks over his glasses at his songbook. “It’s a beautiful time to be here. Whether you live here, visit here, do business here…I don’t know about yinz, but I walk to the ballgames.”

42 | JAN. 22, 2019 | PITTSBURGH CURRENT

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came alive. My motto is make people smile, make people happy, and I feel like I’ve been able to do that. How did this birthday event come to be? Bartending was something as an Elk I was called upon to do. And now I can’t seem to get away from it. They won’t let me get away from it. I keep saying let someone else do it… but they seem to like me here. This idea came to be from a very dear friend of mine, a friend who plays the accordian. He had this idea, and word got out and a lot of people came. Everyone wanted to come see who was this 90 year old who serves drinks. And they saw him. It was one of the highlights of my career. The Exalted Ruler came up to me and he said, we should do this every year. I said what? And then I dropped it. Well, of course, it came up again. And here we are.

George Martin. Current Photo by Jake Mysliwczyk

NEIGHBORHOOD CONVERSATION: HAVING A DRINK WITH ALLEGHENY ELKS BARTENDER GEORGE MARTIN

Lunch: Mon-Sat Dinner Every Day

BY BETHANY RUHE - PITTSBURGH CURRENT ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER BETHANY@PITTSBURGHCURRENT.COM

eorge Martin has been bartending at Elks Lodge 339 for so long that there is an entire generation of members that don’t remember a time he wasn’t there. George is turning 91, and on February 2nd, his actual birthday, the lodge will be open to the public as they celebrate 91 Drinks for 91 Years. Come be a part of history and meet the oldest bartender in the state of Pennsylvania. Are you a lifelong North Sider? I was born in Etna, but we moved to the North Side when I was just a kid. I went to school here, graduating

from Allegheny High and then going on to Carnegie Mellon, which was Carnegie Tech then. How long have you been an Elk? I joined in 1951 so I’ve been a member for 69 years. I’ve been bartending for the last 45 years. I started off as a member then I was put on committees. The entertainment committee was always my favorite. From there I became an officer and a chair, then I became Exalted Ruler. I’ve served six times as Exalted Ruler (a lodge record). I got involved in district, state, and national levels, too. I’ve

enjoyed every minute of it. Why was the entertainment committee your favorite? Since I was very young I was involved in entertainment programs. In high school I became involved in plays and so forth, I even wrote some plays myself. My instrument in high school was French Horn. Then I served in the Army and was in the US Army band for a year and a half, playing the trumpet. I’ve been on that stage (pointing to the stage in the main room of the Elks lodge) many, many nights. Everytime I jumped on that stage there, I just

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PITTSBURGH CURRENT | JAN. 22, 2019 | 43

EVENTS

THE CAN’T MISS AMANDA REED - PITTSBURGH CURRENT STAFF WRITER AMANDA@PITTSBURGHCURRENT.COM FEATURED EVENTS IN AND AROUND THE PITTSBURGH REGION

JAN. 24

Interested in supporting local writers and local business while playing with cute cats? You can do all of that tonight at the Black Cat Market in Lawrenceville for the cat café’s monthly Poetry Reading series. The event features Ian Riggins, Nicole Lourette and Billy Jenkins. Admission is free, but you can purchase unlimited time in the cat room for $4. Drinks are also available for purchase. 7 p.m. Free ($4 for cat room access). 5171 Butler St., Lawrenceville. 412-408-2218 or www.blackcatmarketpgh.com Poets Terrance Hayes and Rickey Laurentiis join forces tonight for a reading and Q&A, sponsored by the Center for African American Poetry and Poetics (CAAPP) at Heinz Memorial Chapel, located on the University of Pittsburgh campus. Hayes — a former Pitt professor and current CAAPP co-director — is a 2014 MacArthur “Genuis” grant winner. His latest work, “American Sonnets for My Past And Future Assassin,” was a 2018 National Book Award finalist in poetry. Laurentiis — the inaugural CAAPP creative writing fellow — is the author of “Boy with Thorn” and winner of the Cave Canem Poetry Prize. 7 p.m. Free. 326 South Bellefield Ave., Oakland. www.caapp.pitt.edu

JAN. 25

Carnegie Museum of Art and Arcade Comedy Theater join forces tonight for CrawlSpace at Arcade Comedy Theater after the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Gallery Crawl. Hosted by

improvisers Brad Stephenson and Mike Rubino, the show’s cast will voice-dub characters from famous paintings, perform quick scenes driven by landscapes and give faux curator lectures, combining art and audience suggestion for a short-form improv comedy show. 10 p.m. $12. 943 Liberty Ave., Downtown. 412339-0608 or www.arcadecomedytheater.com

JAN. 28

Critic and curator Vicky A. Clark, Ph.D, speaks tonight at the Brew House Association in a talk titled, “The Carnegie International: Dead or Alive,” co-presented by the Brew House Association and Casey Droege Cultural Productions. Focusing on this year’s International, Clark — who was involved in the Internationals between 1982 and 1995 while working at the Carnegie Museum of Art — answers questions such as, “What did Andrew Carnegie want for the International and do his ideas still influence the show?,” “How does location affect the show?” and more. 6-8 p.m. $15 ($5 for students). 711 South 21st St., South Side. www. brewhousearts.org

FEB. 1

Award-winning choreographer David Roussève and his nine-member dance company, REALITY, perform “Halfway to Dawn” starting today at the Kelly Strayhorn Theater (KST). In this commissioned work, David Roussève/REALITY redefines “biography” with a multimedia event that examines the complicated life of KST namesake and gay jazz composer Billy Strayhorn. Strayhorn’s music

44 | JAN. 22, 2019 | PITTSBURGH CURRENT

Quiet Riot

is interpreted as a blend of jazz, modern and postmodern forms, with a sonic design by d. Sabela that combines vintage recordings of Strayhorn’s songs with sounds from today. 8 p.m. Also Feb. 2. Pay what you want. 5941 Penn Ave., East Liberty. www.kelly-strayhorn.org Back in their day, there were few metal bands as popular and successful as Quiet Riot. It was started by legendary metal guitarist Randy Rhoads, but didn’t find it’s height of popularity until after Rhoads left to join Ozzy Ozborne. In 1982, the band released the album Metal Health, the first heavy-metal record to top Billboard’s album chart. The band, with original/early members Frankie Banali, Chuck Wright and Alex Grossi invite you to “Cum on Feel the Noize” tonight at Jergel’s Rhythm and Grille. 8 p.m. 103 Slade Lane, Warrendale. $28-41. Under 21 admitted with parent or guardian. jergels.com

FEB. 2

Ten collegiate a cappella groups battle for their chance at national singing stardom tonight at the Varsity Vocals International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella (ICCA) Central Quarterfinals at Sol-

diers and Sailors Auditorium. The top two placing groups will advance to the ICCA Central Semifinal. Fun fact: this is the same competition featured in the 2012 blockbuster “Pitch Perfect.” 7 p.m. $25 ($20 for students). 4141 Fifth Ave., Oakland. www.varsityvocals.com

FEB. 5

New York Times-bestselling author Georgia Hunter comes to the Carnegie Library Lecture Hall tonight for “An Evening with Georgia Hunter,” presented by the Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh and Pittsburgh Arts and Lectures and sponsored by the Jewish Women’s Foundation. Hunter will discuss how she discovered her grandfather’s Holocaust-era connection and the decade spent researching her family history. Hunter is the author of “We Were the Lucky Ones,” a fiction novel inspired by her findings. 7 p.m. $18 ($20 at the door, free for Holocaust survivors and students with valid ID). 4400 Forbes Ave., Oakland. www.jfedpgh.org

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NEWS OF THE BY THE EDITORS AT ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION WEIRDNEWSTIPS@AMUNIVERSAL.COM PEOPLE WITH ISSUES KION TV reported on Jan. 7 that a Salinas, California, family’s Ring doorbell camera captured video of a man licking the doorbell for more than three hours. The homeowners were out of town during the encounter, which took place around 5 a.m., but their children were inside. Sylvia Dungan, who was alerted to the activity at her front door on her phone, said, “I thought, boy there’s a lot of traffic. ... Who the heck is that?” Salinas police identified the man as Roberto Daniel Arroyo, 33. Arroyo also relieved himself in the front yard and visited a neighbor’s house. “You kind of laugh about it afterwards because technically he didn’t do anything,” Dungan said, although police later charged him with petty theft and prowling. SUPER FAN Dale Sourbeck, 49, of Pittston, Pennsylvania, had football on his mind after his arresting start to 2019. In the early morning hours of Jan. 3, he used a hammer to break into the Rock Street Music store and helped himself to two guitars -- to start with, reported WNEP TV. Presumably realizing he was being watched by surveillance cameras, Sourbeck left and returned to the store wearing a mask and grabbed three more guitars. Police tracked Sourbeck down using the surveillance camera shot of his license plate and found the stolen guitars in his home. Upon his arrest, the only statement he made was, “Go Eagles.” SPECIAL DELIVERY Veterinarian Molly Kreuze of Springfield, Virginia, is planning to purchase an artificial Christmas tree next year after her natural one came with something extra: more than 100 praying mantises. Kreuze told WJLA-TV the leggy insects emerged from an egg sac under the tree’s branches and were “crawling on the walls,

crawling on the ceiling, crawling on the windows.” Kreuze captured as many as she could and was hoping to find a new home for them, as it seems “people really like” the bugs. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture advised that people who find the egg sacs on their Christmas trees should clip the branch and take it outside. Otherwise, without their regular source of food, the newly hatched insects will start to eat each other. THAT REMINDS ME OF A MOVIE ... Eakins Oval, a Philadelphia traffic circle, was the scene of an ominous accident on Jan. 1 when a 21-year-old unnamed man tried to climb a monument to George Washington at the center of the circle. WPIV-TV reported that the man slipped while climbing and fell on the sharp antler of a large deer statue at the base of the monument, impaling his left side. He suffered lacerations and was admitted to Hahnemann Hospital nearby. UNCLEAR ON THE CONCEPT Three customers and staff of a Wells Fargo branch in Solana Beach, California, were stunned on Jan. 3 when 35-year-old Clint Gray entered the bank shortly after it opened and yelled, “This is a robbery! Everybody get on the ground!” a witness told The San Diego Union-Tribune. But Gray, who was unarmed, didn’t follow through. Instead, he stripped down to his underwear and sat in a chair near the front door, asking bank employees to call law enforcement. He also kindly told one female customer that she could sit in a chair instead of lying on the floor. A sheriff’s deputy arrived shortly, and Gray surrendered without resistance; he was later charged with attempted robbery. MATRICULATION OR ... Stu-

48 | JAN. 22, 2019 | PITTSBURGH CURRENT

dents at a Fairfield, Ohio, middle school were subjected to an unexpected lesson on Jan. 8 when they reported suspicious behavior “taking place behind (the) desk” of substitute teacher, Tracey J. Abraham of Cincinnati. WHIO-TV reported that the school resource officer at Creekside Middle School received several complaints from students that the teacher was, eh, taking matters into his own hands, and he was removed from the room and building. Abraham was booked and charged with public indecency and ordered to stay away from all locations where there are children under 18 years old. SMOOTH REACTION A female jogger on the Goldenrod Trail in Oakland, California, used pepper spray on a dog that attacked her on the morning of Jan. 3, angering the dog’s owner, Alma Cadwalader, 19. According to KPIX-TV, police said Cadwalader retaliated by tackling and punching the jogger multiple times, and finally biting the victim on the forearm, causing significant wounds. Police posted a surveillance camera photograph of Cadwalader and asked for the public’s help in identifying her; she was arrested on Jan. 4. SOCIAL MEDIA FAIL Game Warden Cannon Harrison, 24, is well known around his area in Oklahoma, so when he filled out a profile for the dating app Bumble, he didn’t include his profession. But when he “matched” with a woman nearby in December, he was surprised when she messaged him that she had just bagged “a bigo buck.” “I thought ... it was someone who was messing with me because they knew who I was,” Harrison told The Washington Post. Deer season had ended, although hunting with a crossbow was still legal, so he decided to play along. He wrote back, “Hell yeah, get em with a bow?” When the unnamed huntress demurred, he asked her if she had been “spotlighting” -- an illegal technique that involves shining a light into the animal’s eyes to stun it before shooting it, and she replied, “Yeahhhh.” Next she sent Harrison a

photo of herself with her trophy, and Harrison went to work. He tracked her down on social media, and the following morning, game wardens appeared at her door. The woman paid a fine and will avoid jail time -- and probably a date with Warden Harrison. OH, FLORIDA Heather Carpenter, 42, was charged with damaging property and criminal mischief in Sarasota County, Florida, after expressing in a particularly gross way her dissatisfaction with the principal of the school where Carpenter was substitute teaching. Phillippi Shores Elementary School Principal Allison Foster had been helping Carpenter with a professional issue, but Carpenter was unhappy with the way it was going, according to the Sarasota Herald-Tribune. So on Dec. 1, in a park where Foster was hosting a birthday party for her daughter later in the day, Carpenter -- whose own daughter was invited to the party -arrived with human feces, according to a witness, which she spread on the grill and picnic tables. Carpenter pleaded not guilty, but the Sheriff’s Office report stated that she admitted she “intentionally placed human waste and fecal matter on the tables at Urfer Park with the intent of disrupting the birthday party planned by Foster.” LEAST COMPETENT CRIMINAL An unidentified 39-year-old wannabe carjacker hit a bump in the road on Jan. 7 when he approached the driver of a Chevrolet Volt in San Diego, reported The San Diego Union-Tribune. The thief demanded the driver’s keys and mobile phone around 6 a.m., according to San Diego police, and tried to drive off in the vehicle. But he couldn’t figure out how to operate the hybrid car, and in frustration he ran away, discarding the phone and keys. Police located the carjacker a short distance away and arrested him on suspicion of carjacking and robbery. Send your weird news items with subject line WEIRD NEWS to WeirdNewsTips@amuniversal.com.

Universal Crossword Edited by David Steinberg January 22, 2019

ACROSS 1 Silver of FiveThirtyEight 5 Restroom, briefly 8 Dalmatian mark 12 Wet, melty snow 14 Singer Amos or Kelly 15 Had on 16 Short time out? 18 Senate staffer 19 A liar may spin one 20 Top-shelf 21 Response to “You’re a liar!” 23 Programmer’s problem 26 Scribbles hastily 27 Capitol insiders 28 “Preach!” 30 Port-auPrince locale 32 ___ Gala (annual NYC event) 35 Pokemon imperative, or hint to 16-, 23-, 45-, and 56-Across 39 “Special” or “covert” follower 40 Standards 41 Bana of “Troy” 42 31-Down insert 1/22

43 Shot that uses the backboard 45 It’s tossed after a nuptial ceremony 51 Disinclined (to) 52 Home, in Hidalgo 53 “___ the season ...” 55 Palm starch 56 Unanticipated piece of good fortune 59 Eve’s partner 60 Extreme angers 61 Mimic’s gift 62 Julia’s role in “Ocean’s Eleven” 63 Short ___ sweet 64 Dreary color DOWN 1 “Don’t open in the office” letters 2 Soothing creams 3 Powerful plane engines 4 Winter hrs. in Boston 5 Solitary sort 6 Animal pairs’ boat 7 Germanic invader of Rome 8 Hindu wise men 9 “Your ___ being?”

10 Surgeon, informally 11 Braces’ places 13 Marriott competitor 14 Fey of “SNL” 17 Bowls over, say 22 “Kate and ___” (’80s sitcom) 24 Wingdings, for one 25 “Beowulf” and “The Aeneid” 28 In the past 29 Beatles hairdo 30 Start to go? 31 PIN-entering place 32 Sales specialist 33 Giant Manning 34 Mom’s specialty, briefly 36 Diarist Nin

37 Julius Caesar’s first wife 38 Restaurant window posting 42 They go in old PC trays 43 In use, as a phone line 44 Jordan’s only port 45 Attended 46 Give the slip 47 Impressionist Edgar 48 Secretly looped in 49 Sturdy shade trees 50 Princess party crown 54 Vodka brand 57 Large decorative vase 58 Dungeons and Dragons genre, for short

PREVIOUS PUZZLE ANSWER

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“They’re Getting Away” by Ross Trudeau

PITTSBURGH CURRENT | JAN. 22, 2019 | 49

Savage

LOVE

BY DAN SAVAGE MAIL@SAVAGELOVE.NET

I’m an early-30s hetero woman in a monogamous relationship with my mid-30s hetero guy. We’ve been together 10 years, married seven, no kids. We have a lot of fun—traveling, shared hobbies, mutual friends, etc. We have sex fairly regularly, and it’s not bad. However, his primary sexual fetish and main turn-on is furry porn—namely, cartoon images. He doesn’t self-identify as a furry; he doesn’t have a fursuit or fursona. To his credit, he was up front about this with me once we started getting serious. However, I think at that younger age, I conflated the emotional openness and acceptance of his sexuality with actually being satisfied with the sexual component of our relationship. He seems only marginally attracted to me, and it bums me out that his more intense sexual drives are funneled into furry porn. I feel somewhat helpless, as his fetish doesn’t allow me to meet him halfway. Real-life furry action (fursuits and the like) does not interest him (I’ve offered). We have sex regularly, but I always initiate, and his enthusiasm is middling until we get going, at which point I think we both enjoy ourselves. But I’ve found that this turns into a negative feedback loop, where his lack of initial interest leads to me being less attracted to him, and so on. I consider myself a fairly sexual person and I get a lot of pleasure out of being desired. We’re talking about starting a family, and I’m scared that the pressures that come with parenthood would only make this worse. Fretting Under Relationship Shortcomings Nothing I write is going to fix this—and nothing I write is going to fix him, FURS, not that your husband

is broken. He is who he is, and he had the decency to let you know who he was before you married him. But nothing I write is going to put you at the center of your husband’s erotic inner life. Nothing I write is going to inspire him to initiate more (or at all) or cause him to be more enthusiastic about sex. Nothing I write is going to make your husband want you the way you want to be wanted, desire you the way you want to be desired, and fuck you the way you want to be fucked. So the question you need to ask yourself before you make babies with this man—the question I would have urged you to ask yourself before you married this man—is whether you can live without the pleasure you get from being desired. Is that the price of admission you’re willing to pay to be with this man? Maybe it once was, but is it still? Because if monogamy is what you want or what he wants or what you both want, FURS, then choosing to be with this man— choosing to be with someone you enjoy spending time with, who’s “not bad” at sex, whose most passionate erotic interests direct him away from you—means going without the pleasure of being wanted the way you want to be wanted, desired the way you want to be desired, and fucked the way you want to be fucked. Your husband was up front with you about his sexuality before you got married. Everyone should be, of course, but so few people are—particularly people who have been made to feel ashamed of their sexuality or their fetishes or both—that we’re inclined to heap praise on people who manage to clear what should be a low bar. At

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the time, you mistook “emotional openness” and your willingness to accept his sexuality for both sexual compatibility and sexual satisfaction. I think you owe it to yourself to be up front with your husband before you have kids. He’s getting a good deal here—decent sex with the wife and the freedom to take care of needs his wife can’t meet. And you’re free to ask for a similar deal—decent sex with your husband and the freedom to take care of needs your husband can’t meet. There’s a far greater degree of risk involved in you going outside the relationship to feel desired, of course; you seeing another man or men comes bundled with emotional and physical risks that wanking to furry porn does not. This isn’t an apples-to-apples comparison. But if your shared goal as a couple is mutual sexual fulfillment—and that should be every couple’s goal—and if you want to avoid becoming so frustrated that you make a conscious decision to end your marriage (or a subconscious decision to sabotage it), FURS, then opening up the relationship needs to be a part of the discussion. Please discuss cuckolding in all its forms. Also all of the emotional risks and potential sexual rewards. A Potential Cuckoldress It would take two years’ worth of columns—even more—to discuss cuckolding in all its forms, unpack all the risks, and game out all the potential rewards. Since I can’t possibly do that, APC, I’m going to send you to Keys and Anklets (keysandanklets.com), a terrific podcast dedicated to “the cuckold and hotwife lifestyle.” The host, Michael C., is engaging, funny, and

wise, and his interviews with cuck couples and bulls are incredibly illuminating. If you’re considering entering into a cuckold relationship, you’ll definitely want to start listening to Keys and Anklets. I’m a twentysomething woman engaged to a wonderful twentysomething man. I’m the kinky one. I’ve dabbled in BDSM and definitely have a taste for pain and degradation. My boyfriend, meanwhile, considers himself a feminist and struggles with degrading me. I’ve been very patient and settled for very vanilla sex for a couple of years now. However, every now and then, he’ll joke about peeing on me when we shower together. I’m curious about watersports and would totally give it a try! I’ve tried to get more information from him on where these jokes are coming from, but he always changes the subject. And recently when I tried to make a joke back, I said the absolute wrong thing: “Okay, R. Kelly, settle down.” This was right before we watched Surviving R. Kelly. I’m afraid that joke may have sent any potential watersports play down the toilet. (Pun intended!) Any advice on how to get him to open up next time he makes one of these jokes? Wants A Totally Exciting Relationship You might want to reread the first letter in this week’s column, WATER, and then dig into the Savage Love archives and check out the thousands of letters I’ve responded to from people who failed to establish basic sexual compatibility before marrying their partners. Settling down requires some settling for, of course, and everyone winds up paying the price of admission. But sexual compatibility is

something you want to establish before the wedding, not after. At the very least, WATER, don’t marry a man to whom you can’t make simple observations about sex and ask simple questions about sex. Like this statement/question/ statement combo: “You joke about peeing on me, and I want to know if you would actually like to pee on me, because I would like to be peed on.” Pissing on you doesn’t make him R. Kelly, a man who has been credibly accused of raping underage girls and sexually and emotionally abusing— even imprisoning—adult women. If R. Kelly had raped numerous women and girls in the missionary position, WATER, all the other men out there who enjoy sex in the missionary position don’t become rapists by default. Where there is consent—enthusiastic consent— then it, whatever it is (missionary position sex, peeing on a partner), isn’t abusive. Sex play involving pain or degradation often requires more detailed conversations about consent, of course, but jokes and hints are a shitty way to negotiate consent for any kind of sex. Always go with unambiguous statements (“I would like to be peed on”) and direct questions (“Would you like to pee on me?”). I’m a gay man in my late 20s finishing up a graduate program and dating a man who is 38. The sex is great. Some context: We met on Scruff and dated for a little bit. Then I suffered a loss in my family—I was sad and confused, and didn’t want a relationship during this time. We talked again in June 2018, we went to Pride in Minneapolis, and we have been together since December 2018. Recently he hinted about children and my attitude toward children. I responded that I want to have children of my own someday. However, in a text, he stated that he wants a child in a year or two. This seemed like an ultimatum to me, one that could make or break this relationship, and I wonder why he kept this from me. I do want children, but I’m still a starving student, a child is a huge responsibility, and I

worry about the state of the world. And he texted this information to me! I feel anxious and pressured. What do I need to do? Text Ultimatum May Unravel Loving Ties Maybe you need to chill the fuck out, TUMULT. People put their long-term goals on the table when they start getting serious about someone—long-term goals like the places they’d like to live or the kids they’d like to have— because if you’re not on the same page about the big stuff, continuing to make a large emotional investment in the relationship sets both partners up for heartbreak. And while you seem to think he should have brought kids up sooner (or in person, which definitely would’ve been better), people who bring up kids on the first date don’t get many second dates. Six months in is a perfectly reasonable time to bring kids up. And where you see an ultimatum, TUMULT, I see an opening—the opening of negotiations. Your boyfriend would like to be a parent in a year or two. You would also like to be a parent, but not that soon. So make your counteroffer. If two years is too soon, tell him when you think you might be ready. Three years? Four? After you land a job in your field? After President Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez signs the Green New Deal into law? All your boyfriend is saying—all he’s texting—is that he sees a future with you and wants to know if you’re on the same page about the big stuff. It’s a compliment, TUMULT, not an ultimatum. And while there’s no compromising about whether to have kids—you can’t have half a kid (not legally)—you can hammer out a compromise about when to have kids. On the Lovecast, a case against Grindr for online harassment: savagelovecast.com.

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