CAROUSEL triple cities
december 2013
free
vol. 1 issue 10
music. art. theatre. food. life.
MOE IS COMING
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BINGHAMTON UNIVERSITY
ANDERSON CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
2 013 - 1 4 SEASON
HAIFA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Wednesday, February 12, 2014
SOWETO GOSPEL CHOIR
Sunday, February 23, 2014
SNARKY PUPPY (Jazz Touring Network) Thursday, March 13, 2014
MOSCOW FESTIVAL BALLET
Monday, April 7, 2014
GROUP RATES AVAILABLE TICKETS AND INFORMATION: 607-777-ARTS OR ANDERSON.BINGHAMTON.EDU
contents.
December 2013 Triple Cities Carousel 5
editorial..........................................................6 tis the season...............................................7 theatre..........................................................16 art..................................................................17 events calendar........................................20 music.............................................................25 food and drink............................................29 wellness.......................................................33 film................................................................34 poetry...........................................................35 fun stuff......................................................36 TRIPLE CITIES CAROUSEL P.O. BOX 2947 BINGHAMTON, NY 13902 Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Christopher Bodnarczuk Assistant Editor/Calendar Guru Ty Whitbeck Advertising Christopher Bodnarczuk, Kathleen Klein, Ty Whitbeck Staff Writers Charles Berman, Stacey Burke, Julian Kappel, Heather Merlis, Kaitlin Mooney, Maria Murphy, Rose Silberman-Gorn, Dan Spaventa, Ronnie Vuolo, Felicia Waynesboro, Ahlpheh Ohtis Wilson Contributors Dr. Dan Edmunds, Jules Gotay, Kristina Strain Photography Ty Whitbeck Layout/Design Christopher Bodnarczuk Youth Liason Ahlpheh Ohtis Wilson Cover Art Detail of “Lackawanna Station” -Anthony Brunelli Printer Our Press Chenango Bridge, NY FOR ADVERTISING: ads@triplecitiescarousel.com FOR SUBMISSIONS: submissions@triplecitiescarousel.com FOR LETTERS, COMPLAINTS, PRAISE, DEATH THREATS, AND MORE INFO: editor@triplecitiescarousel.com
editorial.
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Funny how things can change over the course of a year. Two Decembers ago, I was at the lowest of lows, borderline homeless and reeling from the downward spiral that had come from the combination of losing my first real love and having no idea what I wanted to do with my life. The pieces were picked up, and I spent the following months living out of a van with some very dear friends, travelling the country on $10 a day. One December ago, I was back in my adopted hometown of Binghamton, having moved in with a good friend that happened to have been my mailman when I first came here six years ago. I was still surviving on $10 a day, but I had a bed, and life was good. I still had no idea what to do with the future, but the cogs were turning. One night, after a bottle of whiskey and a half pack of cigarettes, I made the fateful decision to start a newspaper. The idea had been discussed off and on for several years. I was a writer, and had written for arts publications since my teenage years, but it never seemed like a possible reality, actually starting a paper. But, after I sobered up from the whiskey, I drove down to Orange County to seek out my old editor. “Talk me out of it,” I said. “No,” he said. Thanks, Barry. And so here we are. It took a few months and a lot of patient people to get Carousel running, but in March, the first issue came out. Then the second. Then the third. Here we are in December, and it has gone from a 16 page newsletter with a distribution of 2000 copies to a 40 page monolith with a distribution of 8000. I’ve made a lot of friends along the way, and a few choice enemies, but I’m still here, the paper’s still here, and you’re still reading. I still survive on $10 a day, but hey, that’s publishing. Carousel has grown beyond my little pet project and into something real, something tangible. It’s far from just me these days. With a dedicated staff of writers, advertising representatives, and editors… it’s become its own sentient being. In a ‘feed me, Seymour’ kind of way. As 2013 comes to a close, it’s hard not to think of what I’ll be writing in this space this time next year. The whole staff is gearing up for the New Year, and when we return in January, an evolution will have taken place. We’re redesigning the paper, rethinking how we approach articles, and looking to double our coverage area. In my very first editorial, I asked you readers to be patient, to stick around until Carousel was a paper we could all be proud of. I think we’ve made it. It’s been a bumpy ride, but rewarding in so many ways. For me, definitely, and hopefully for you as well. On behalf of the staff and the whole of the Carousel Nation… Happy Chanukah, Merry Christmas, Joyous Kwanzaa, Happy Yule, Good Boxing Day, and a very, very fruitful New Year. Peace on earth, and good will to all. -Christopher Bodnarczuk
tis the season.
December 2013 Triple Cities Carousel 7
Dear Editor, I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, ‘If you see it in THE SUN it’s so.’ Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus?
Virginia O’Hanlon 115 West Ninety-Fifth Street.
Virginia, Your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except they see. They think that nothing can be which is not compre hensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men’s or children’s, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.
Yes, VIRGINIA, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were no VIRGINIAS. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished. Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? No body sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that’s no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world. You may tear apart the baby’s rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, VIRGINIA, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding. No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will contin ue to make glad the heart of childhood.
Respectfully reprinted from the Sept. 21, 1897 edition of the New York Sun.
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YOU’LL SHOOT YOUR EYE OUT, KID: “A CHRISTMAS STORY” RETURNS TO OWEGO
The cast of “A Christmas Story,”which takes the stage this month at the Ti-Ahwa-Ga Theatre in Owego. Photo Provided.
Heather Merlis Staff Writer
There’s a feeling that fills the days approaching Christmas. A promise of something unknown, something that will rescue you from the dreary, dim days of winter. Perhaps a toy that will empower you to defend your loved ones against bad guys once and for all, all shining and gleaming in its enameled glory beneath the unearthed pine that has been transplanted onto your living room floor. “Oh no,” your mother says, “You’ll shoot your eye out.”
“A Christmas Story” spins Shepherd’s memoirs into a comedic tale of family, faulty furnaces, and fiery lust for a certain BB gun.
Jamie Cornell plays the Narrator in this season’s production, but has been involved in the show for eight years. “The movie and the play both have references to other Shepherd stories. Like when the Old Man (Ralphie’s father) pulls the leg-lamp out of the box and says ‘It reminds me of the Fourth of July;’ this is a reference to when he planned on setting off fireworks but had had too many beers with his buddies and wound up blowing up a trash can across the street.” It is this kind of commonplace debauchery that characterizes Shepherd’s work, and although the author gave his blessing for the stage play, he passed before it reached production.
So it goes, the tragedy of not getting the object of one’s desire, as lived by the young Ralphie in the now-classic film A Christmas Story, based on the short stories of Jean Shepherd, and adapted into a stage play that is being performed by the Ti-Ahwaga Community Players for the twelfth consecutive season.
“It’s the Christmas season through a child’s eyes: dreaming of that one perfect gift.” This is how Kathy Harris describes the play, which she is directing for the second time. Kathy has been involved with the Players for many years, and involved with “A Christmas Story” since its first season. “I’m drawn to it year after year. I keep thinking, ‘I’m done,’ but I am so drawn to this show. I’m tickled to be with this set, this group, this family.”
In his collection of short stories, “In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash,” Jean Shepherd paints an honest portrait of Depression-era Indiana with hilariously vivid honesty. Without romanticizing the past, he endears his audience by providing a personal lens for the culture that sprang from our country’s mill towns and once-booming pockets of industry.
The Ti-Ahwaga Players are a family, and one with deep roots. One of the oldest continually active community theatre groups in the state, they are currently in their fifty-fourth season. But for over forty years, the Ti-Ahwaga Players were a troupe without a home. “We did theatre anywhere we could: at the Elks club, at a museum, at the
schools-” Jamie jumps in: “On trains.” Kathy goes on, “We did a dinner theatre on a train for ten years. After being a vagabond company, we finally built our theatre. When we did our opening season, we wanted a yearly Christmas show, and this one stuck from the word ‘go.’”
“The coolest thing about being in this show, for me,” says Jamie, “is that the first year I was in the show, I was playing the Old Man, my son Brendan was playing Randy, and my oldest son, Liam, was playing Ralph. That was just amazing, to be able to walk onstage and perform with my kids.” Year after year, this show is reborn with different siblings, parents, and aunts in new roles. (The Ti-Ahwaga Players’ website has a chart that displays ten years of the show’s cast, and the recurrence of surnames is no coincidence.) It’s fascinating to observe the patterns: boys inheriting roles from older brothers; the original “Mother” now directing her real-life sister in her former role (this is the case in the current production). Devin Cornell, eight years old, plays Randy, Ralphie’s suspiciously quiet younger brother with a cat-like proclivity for hiding in small places. The character suits him remarkably: there is a scene in which Randy emerges from the bottom of a shipping crate, one of his many hiding spots. When asked what his favorite part of the show is, Devin replies, “I like being in the crate.” His father (you guessed it), Jamie, recalls, “We were on our way to the first rehearsal and his question to me on the ride down was, ‘So, do I get to get in the crate tonight?’” Even when he’s not delivering lines, Devin
has the unmistakable look in his eyes of a child with ulterior motives, staying in character and very clearly enjoying himself. The sense of family onstage stems from real roots, and is fitted with a solid setting: the 1940s home depicted by the set was built with as much attention to authentic detail as the script itself. This is the same set that they’ve been using since their first season. “It fits together like a jigsaw puzzle. We reuse set pieces from other shows, but this is a set you don’t touch,” Kathy declares, “It’s an entity unto itself.” The Ti-Ahwaga Players’ production of “A Christmas Story” is a local theatrical tradition, bringing families back every year to witness the show’s reincarnation. Ms. Harris takes pride in her involvement: “There’s a core group of us who keep doing the shows here. We’re this little family that has kept this wonderful theatre going, so we’ve got many stories built over the years.” While the veterans lay the foundation for this institution, the young actors imbue it with vitality and inspiration. “To see them come in- from the read through, to the first rehearsal, and then onstage, in front of an audience.” Jamie beams of his young co-stars, “To see what they can bring to a character, that’s very gratifying.” “A Christmas Story” will be sliding into The Ti-Awhaga Theatre, located at 42 Delphine Street in Owego (it’s tucked away, so be sure to get directions) on December 7th and 8th, and the 12th through the 15th. Tickets range from $10-20. Visit tiahwaga. com for tickets and more information.
HOLIDAY MUSIC AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT JC’S SCHORR STAGE
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Felicia Waynesboro Staff Writer
Cool your heels from the holiday hustle and breeze in for some smooth, latenight-style syncopated rhythms on a Sunday afternoon. Jazz vocalist Glenda Davenport will fill the room with her bell-like tones during the Holiday Concert on December 15th at the Schorr Family Firehouse Stage (part of the Goodwill Theatre complex) in Johnson City. Ms. D will be accompanied by a sextet composed of saxophonist and Binghamton University Jazz Studies professor Al Hamme and a bevy of cats gleaned from this vicinity and beyond. “The theatre, built in 1920, was named the ‘Goodwill Theatre’ by George F. Johnson, who commissioned and gifted it to the Endicott-Johnson Shoe Company and its employees,” explains general manager Christine Springer; it bears no relation to the Goodwill charity. After its beginnings as a venue for boxing matches and minstrel shows, it served as a movie house for several decades, eventually landing on the National Register of Historic Buildings. In 2001, the Goodwill was reborn as a performing arts training academy, and six years ago, the Firehouse Stage (now the Schorr Family Firehouse Stage) became the theatre’s first performance space. It features a flexible interior that is able to transform from a traditional hall of row seats to an intimate cabaret of cocktail table seating, the perfect setting for afternoon jazz and light refreshments. Whether formal auditorium or cozy cabaret, singer Davenport says, “they are both listening rooms that
get a performer’s adrenaline really pumping.”
Born into a musical family in Mt. Vernon, NY, Ms. Davenport performs primarily in Manhattan and the Northeast. Listeners can currently dig her CD “Sophisticated Lady,” which is available through amazon.com, and her newest release, “More Than You Know,” which, while still pending online sales, will be available at the December 15th show. She will be performing American standards from the likes of Cole Porter and Hoagy Carmichael in the Holiday Concert along with improvised, bluesy and otherwise jazzed-up versions of familiar Christmas songs.
Supporting Davenport will be Al Hamme & Friends: Corky Klinko on trumpet; Brian Murphy at the vibraphone; Tony Marino on bass; Tom Whaley on drums; and Dino Losito fresh from such Manhattan venues as the Blue Note, Birdland, and Dizzy’s at Lincoln Center at the piano. And, of course, Professor Hamme, who jests that after years of training, he went back to playing jazz sax when he came to this area because “the clarinet and bassoon chairs were all filled” in the classical orchestras. Davenport points out what all jazz heads know: “It’s America’s music: music that was developed right here in this country.” She is in love with “the uniqueness of it. It’s a very special art form.” Copacetic! The Holiday Concert will be at 2pm on Sunday, December 15th at the Goodwill Theatre, located at 4648 Willow Street in Johnson City. Tickets are $25 for general audiences, $25 for students and seniors. Call the box office at 607-772-2404 ext. 301 or 607789-0627, or visit goodwilltheatre.net.
A CHRISTMAS TRADITION:
“THE NUTCRACKER” AT EPAC
Heather Merlis Staff Writer
Nothing says “Christmas in America” like turn-of-the-century Russian music. When The Nutcracker first premiered in St. Petersburg in 1892, it was met with mixed reviews. This festive tale, depicted through ballet, features a young heroine, whose noble gestures ultimately grant her regal status in the realm of her own fantasy, which is more or less a bourgeois candy land. While the story and execution of this piece were initially divisive, the critics agreed on one thing: the music was great. Since then, Tchaikovsky’s classic score has entered into the public domain, and thereby into our collective consciousness. This holiday season, “The Nutcracker” will be pirouetting into the Endicott Performing Arts Center, a tradition that this venue has upheld for ten years. Patrick Foti is choreographer of the party scene of Act I of the production. A dancer who has worked with the American Dance Asylum and the Whitney Center for Dance, he was a ballet-shoe-in to direct the more traditional first act, along with his colleagues: Daniel Kermidas, who choreographs Act I’s battle scene, and Danielle Meissner, who is directing the more contemporary second act. All three choreographers have been highly involved with “The Nutcracker” in the past (Mr. Foti has performed it for eighteen years).
While some productions of this ballet can get downright spooky, what with the giant mice and the animated toy soldiers, EPAC’s interpretation promises to keep it “light, happy, and entertaining,” according to Mr. Foti. He went on to explain that this is also a unique performance as it is a collaboration of various members of the local dance community. “There are a lot of creative moments in the performance.” Year after year, “The Nutcracker” continues to resonate with audiences. “It’s an eternal story. All the kids love it, and the adults enjoy seeing the kids onstage and the art of the dance.” There are young dancers featured in the first act, alongside seasoned professionals. This year there will be five performances of “The Nutcracker” at EPAC, since it’s proven to be a perennial success. “It keeps growing and people keep coming, so we keep adding performances.” Around the darkest days of the year, we long to be transported to another world, while still being able to nestle in the comfort of tradition and familiarity, and “The Nutcracker” delivers all of this in an elegant package. Put simply (as synopsized by the choreographer), “It’s the story of a little girl who receives a Christmas gift from her magical uncle and she has a dream.” In the reality of our world, it is much more than this. “The Nutcracker” is a work of art that has sustained its impact across continents and through centuries, and it will be touching down gracefully at the Endicott Performing Arts Center from December 13th through the 15th. For tickets and more information, visit endicottarts.com.
December 2013 Triple Cities Carousel 11
10% off with this coupon exp. 1/30
KNOW THEATRE PRESENTS
CELTIC CHRISTMAS
5 Court St. Downtown Binghamton or
www.riverreadbooks.com
Kaitlin Mooney Staff Writer
where prizes ranging from the standard gift basket to the not-so-standard acting classes and behind the stage involvement in one the Know Theatre’s upcoming productions will be up for grabs.
It doesn’t matter if your surname starts with an “O’” or a “Mac,” the Know Theatre (more like the Noel Theatre) invites all to their annual Celtic Christmas Fundraiser on Saturday, December 7th. The event is more than a fundraiser: it is a night of (toe tapping) music, live performances from the area’s best lads and ladies, food galore, and an open bar stocked with the necessities for an authentic black and tan.
Celtic Christmas started in 2008 as an effort to keep the Know Theatre going. The theatre has been bringing semi-professional stage shows to Binghamton by incorporating both local and professional artists for a decade now. When the theatre needed to raise funds, Tim Gleason, Ron Siwiec and Sean Walsh got together and created Celtic Christmas. Walsh, a member of the Stoutmen, came up with the Celtic theme, and the other acts fell into place. According to Gleason, “this has become part of what sustains us each year and is about 20% of our yearly needs.” The Know Theatre has been operating as a non for profit since 2006, and the money this year will go towards new technical upgrades, such as lights and sound to enhance the production value of the performances put on their stage.
The incredible lineup includes music from the The Stoutmen and the BC Celtics Pipes and Drums. The Stoutman is an Irish folk quartet that fills their sets with rebel songs, Irish ballads, and of course, a jovial drinking song or two (or three, or four). The BC Celtic Pipe and Drums need no introduction: The long standing Broome County group have performed at the NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade for the past ten years. There is more than just music in store for this very Celtic Christmas. The Clan Na Cara Dancers bring to the stage the area’s most talented Irish Step Dancers, who will shake you in your seat, and lest we forget the comedic stylings of the Gleason’s Groaners. Don’t leave your wallet at home, or you risk missing out the silent and live auctions,
“The thing I look forward to each year is the excitement and energy that the event stirs up in the people who come. There are folks who come that have become family... and it helps to sustain the theatre” explains artistic director Tim Gleason. Celtic Christmas takes place at the Know Theatre at 74 Carroll Street on Saturday December 7th at 7 pm. Tickets are $25 and include drink (Harp and Guinness will be flowing!), food and entertainment. Tickets can be purchased at the door or reserved by calling 607-724-4341. Visit knowtheatre.org for more information, and be sure to like the Know Theatre on facebook.
THE VOGUES AND THE CHICLETTES TO PERFORM HOLIDAY CONCERT
Ronnie Vuolo Staff Writer
On December 14th, the Venue Sports Bar will be rockin’ to the sounds of the oldies with The Vogues and The Chiclettes in a spectacular holiday show hosted by COOL106.7. Originally called the Val-Airs, The Vogues scored their first hit in 1965 with “You’re the One.” They went on to record a string of hits, including “Five O’clock World”; performed on TV shows such as The Tonight Show, The Ed Sullivan Show and American Bandstand; released 7 CDs and innumerable singles; and performed with all the greats of the time. Consistent and enduring, they’ve remained a sell-out attraction on the oldies scene and continue to tour extensively throughout the U.S. and Canada. Known for their amazing vocal harmonies, they were honored, in 2001 with induction into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame. The current lineup consists of Bill Burkette (one of the original members), Troy Elich, Royce Taylor, and the Five O’Clock Band. Well known in the Triple Cities Region, Troy says “We’re giddy to be back in the area. The fans up there are always great!!” Their newest CD, “The Vogues Sing the Hits…Live!,” was recently released, and features another founding member, Hugh Geyer. COOL106.7’s Tom Shiptenko, is a great fan of the Vogues. “They’ve been with COOL106.7 for eight shows and they consistently sell out every show” he enthused. “This is forever music. Their harmonies
are right on, they’re even better now than when they were younger.” Special guests The Chiclettes are faithful followers of the classic girl groups of the past. The current members of this tribute band: Susanne LoFaso, Sarah Tracey, and Molly Amoroso, have been performing together for 7 years, backed by The Coda Band. Hailing from Long Island, Brooklyn, and NYC, respectively, they remain true to the roots of early Rock n’ Roll and Motown, while stretching to include more contemporary hits. Touring throughout the tri-state region and beyond; they recently completed a tour aboard the Holland America Lines, performing with legends such as Neil Sedaka, The Four Tops, Petula Clark, Lesley Gore, and Bill Medley of the Righteous Brothers. Speaking about the upcoming Holiday Concert, Susanne says, “We have not yet performed in your area and are excited to see Binghamton for the first time. We’re honored to be performing with The Vogues, icons in the music industry.” The music of The Vogues and The Chiclettes hearkens back to a simpler time. True ‘feel good’ music, it’s a perfect remedy for a season often filled with stress. The Venue is located at 93 State Street, Binghamton. Doors open at 6pm, and the show starts at 7pm. Ticket sales are limited, and as previous Vogue concerts have been sell-outs, it’s recommended that tickets be reserved as soon as possible. Tickets may be purchased at Equinox Broadcasting, 101 Main Street, Johnson City or online at thevenuesportsbar.showclix.com. Advance admission is $20, $25 the night of the show. Proceeds benefit the Binghamton Police Department Toys for Tots campaign. Everyone is encouraged to bring a new unwrapped toy for donation.
EPAC EMBRACES ‘THE GRINCH’ (THIRTY NINE AND A HALF FOOT POLE UNNECESSARY)
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Grinch. That to me was the great appeal of this role.” The most challenging part of the role, he goes on, is “the makeup and the costume...and the growling. But the Grinch is an odd character because, while the whole time he’s ‘I hate Christmas, I hate Christmas, I hate Christmas,’ there’s also an endearing part of him, and I hope that I’m able to capture that. There’s a little bit of the Grinch in everybody, especially at Christmas, what with waiting in long lines to buy things and being stuck in holiday traffic. The Grinch really is a timeless classic, and I think EPAC does a great job at translating that to the stage. The best part, in the end, is discovering the true meaning of Christmas, and that’s what I’m looking forward to conveying to everyone.”
Ronnie Vuolo Staff Writer
Look out Broome County: The Grinch is headed your way. He and his dog, Max, will be landing at EPAC’s Robert Eckert Theatre on December 5th for the first of four shows: December 5th, 6th, and 7th at 8pm; and December 8th at 3pm. How the Grinch Stole Christmas was such a success when it was first put on by EPAC last year, according to Musical Director Patrick Foti, that it’s likely to become an annual event. Foti describes it as “a combination of the book and movie versions, with the addition of some contemporary music from the cartoon. The cartoon is the inspiration for the set and costumes. The music is an accumulation of different areas.” The cast is composed of actors from EPAC’s Kids Theatre Workshop and Reparatory Company, a company that is constantly evolving as a result of open auditions. Only two characters featured in this year’s show are played by the same actors as last year: the Grinch, played by Connor Gates; and Max the Dog, played by Belle Indelicato. Although the basic script remains the same, audiences will notice some fresh changes, including the addition of special effects and a new song for the Grinch. The musical director for the production, Kris Gilbert, is a veteran of more than fifty shows with EPAC, and Kim Cook is the choreographer. “It’s a great show,”
In the role of Whoville’s Mayor is Rob Shutt, a three-year veteran of EPAC, whose son Mac plays the part of Mr. Lou Who. Regarding the Mayor, he says, “It seems a little ironic, I suppose, but actually the Mayor is somewhat the villain. The Grinch, of course, turns out to be a good ‘person’ in the end. So it’s kind of a villainous role, which is fun to play.” Rob admits that “the most challenging aspect for me is always the dancing. But I’m coming along nicely. It’s a great show, a fun Christmas tradition for people to start coming to see, because it’s fantastic, and our Grinch is out of this world!” Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Television.
enthuses Foti. “It’s got great costumes, sets, acting and singing. Everything a musical needs, and it’s as colorful as the cartoon.” Connor Gates, formerly a theatre major at SUNY
Cortland, has been a member of the reparatory company for five years. Now in his second year as the Grinch, he says his favorite part of the role is “playing such an iconic character of Christmas. I’d say right up there in the top five has got to be the
Tickets for “The Grinch” can be purchased online, at endicottarts.com; at the box office, located at 102 Washington Avenue in Endicott; or by calling (607) 785-8903. Box Office hours are 9am-5pm weekdays, and evenings the week before the show. All seats are reserved. Adult tickets are $15, children 12 and under are $10.
December 2013 Triple Cities Carousel 13
MASQUERADE AT THE MANSION Revelers at last year’s Ball. Photo by Joshua B.
Stacey Burke Staff Writer
It’s happened to the best of us. Each year, we anticipate New Year’s Eve approaching, with hopes for an even bigger and better soiree to say goodbye to the past year and greet the new one. As the 31st approaches, excitement turns into the fear that once again, you’ll be sitting around Bob’s house drinking the same old beer you do every other Wednesday. We’ve all had a disappointing New Year’s Eve that we refer to as “that one year.” Forgettable, to say the least (and there’s a good chance it’s happened more than once). Well, Southern Tier friends, stomp your angst about what to do this year to the ground and let me tell you about a party you won’t want to miss. I guarantee you’ll be talking about it
next year at as “the year you rang the hell out of the New Year.”
What is this intriguing event I speak of? None other than the New Year’s Eve Masquerade in the Mansion. It is the place to be, and could even be considered the party of the year by those who’ve attended before [EDITOR’S NOTE: Ahem, ahem cough cough Scareousel Halloween cough cough]. The third annual event will be held at the Roberson Museum and Science Center on Front Street in Binghamton- the perfect venue to host such an exquisite and magical celebration. The idea for the event came to the BingSpot crew; Joshua Ludzki and Michael Grasso, a few years back while the pair was attending a fundraiser. With Roberson’s Executive Director, Terry McDonald, on board, the vision became a reality in 2011. With the word “masquerade” in the title, you get an idea of what this occasion might entail. A sneak peak from Joshua reveals some of the great entertainment to be expected: “A live jazz band on the first floor, a high-energy DJ in the ballroom, piano players, an opera singer, a mask-maker, contortion-
ists, fortunate tellers and belly dancers (and a few surprises that we’ll keep up our sleeves for now). Rest assured, you won’t be bored for a moment. We strive to create an experience- not a linear stage show. Wander from room to room and you’ll find a new surprise in each one.” As for the vibe of the event; “You won’t feel like you’re at a museum. For this one night, you’ll feel like you’ve been invited to an incredibly fabulous house party by an acquaintance with exquisite taste in entertainment and friends.” Munchies will be provided throughout the night, and there will be a full cash bar for your celebration needs. The entertainment is only one aspect of the night; the attendees themselves create the ambiance! Guests adorned in ball gowns, black tie, masks, dramatic makeup, hats, veils, and more, will roam the mansion creating a stunning, spectacular scene. As Michael shares, “I feel like this is Binghamton at its best: costumes made of leather, feathers, silk, and yes, I’m guilty of wearing mostly body paint. It’s a night like you won’t experience anywhere else.” You can dress as you like, but be prepared, for professional photographers will be wandering among
the guests to capture it all– and who wouldn’t want to look sharp! (What better day of the year to strut your stuff anyway?!) Tickets for this event are $45. They go fast, so you’ll want to reserve your spot ASAP! You can order online at roberson.org. (and also get a glimpse of some snapshots from the past events). Not only does your ticket get you into the event, all proceeds go to support the Roberson Museum and Science Center, or, as Josh puts it, a place that has: “great exhibits, a cool planetarium, an awesome space for local performance groups; they’re always willing to help the community in whatever way they can.”
This being said, why wouldn’t you want to make this New Year’s Eve the night you’ll never forget? (Unless that is, you have one too many cocktails.) As Michael declares, “I can’t imagine why I’d want to be anywhere else. It’s really kind of magical.” So get out your fanciest attire, or your most extravagant mask, and live it up for the evening. Ring in 2014 unlike any year yet – dressed to the nines and surrounded by a plethora of entertainment, costumes, celebration and magic.
OWEGO LI G HTS UP THE SUSQUEHANNA WITH ANNUAL HOLIDAY FESTIVAL
14 Vol. 1 Issue 10
content to just listen, Les Sauerbrey, of WEBO radio, will lead a sing-a-long on the Courthouse Steps from 5:30-6pm. The romantic at heart, or those with tired feet, can see the sights from the seat of a horse and wagon, while the young at heart can pet alpacas, participate in one of the many children’s activities at Gateway Park (weather permitting), or view over 100 decorated Christmas Trees and wreaths on display at the Tioga County Historical Museum. There’s even a Gingerbread House Workshop available at the TC Arts Council from 6-8pm, open to everyone ages 5 and up (only 25 spots are available so be sure to pre-register). In addition to the local businesses, which will remain open for this event, numerous vendors will line the streets offering homemade cookies, donut holes, soup, hot cider, hot chocolate, and even BBQ, for the chilled and hungry. The grand finale, for the expected 5000 visitors, will come at 8pm as a spectacular fireworks display explodes above the river and showers sparkling glitter onto the waters below.
Ronnie Vuolo Staff Writer
As the sun sets over the Susquehanna on December 6th, the historic village of Owego will come to life for the annual Lights on the River festival. The main attraction this year will be the Big Snowzilla Toboggan Ride. Located in the parking lot of the First Niagara Bank on Lake Street, the ride is free and will be open from 5-8pm for thrill seekers of all ages. Of course, no holiday festival would be complete without the presence of Santa and Mrs. Claus: the holiday lights will be set ablaze at 6pm by Santa’s own hand, in the Courthouse Square, and he and Mrs. Claus will be at the Gateway Community Park later on to greet all holiday revelers (in the event of inclement weather, this event will take place at The Goat Boy Coffee Shop). With something to delight all five senses, not a corner of the village has been left out. Visitors can expect to see carolers strolling past candlelit buildings; a juggler doing magic tricks; ice sculptor Mark
Lights on the River 2012. Photo Provided.
Watson, creating frozen art; and a parade of cars hosted by the Cruisin’ Car Buddies. Throughout the village, choir voices lifted in song will mingle with
those of bagpipes, brass quintets and barbershop quartets. The Zydeco Po’ Boys will provide a dancing beat at Las Chicas Taqueria, and for those not
Always a good place to shop, stroll, or have a nice meal, historic Owego goes all out for their annual holiday spectacular, leaving no stone unturned in their effort to delight the senses. A full schedule of events, in addition to a parking map, can be found at lightsontheriver.com.
CO-OP GALLERY 213 OPENS DOORS FOR
HOLIDAY SHOW AND SALE
something unique, especially during the holidays, and we have that here. And it’s classy and fun!”
Maria “Murph” Murphy Staff Writer
“The Holiday Show & Sale” begins on December 5th with food and music will be on hand in addition to the artwork. In addition to exhibiting, BU Professor John Thompson will be providing musical accompaniment at the opening. The event will run, with special extended holiday hours, until the closing reception on December 22nd. “Anyone that wants to come is more than welcome. I look at the list of people that come back year after year, because of the great experience they had with it, and I think it’s really cool we are a part of that.” So, if you’re still stressing over that one special gift to give, why not ‘give the gift of art?’ Head over to the Cooperative Gallery this month and you just might find what you’ve been looking for. As Williams says, “It’s an opportunity to give a gift that people will remember.”
The Co-op Holiday Show and Sale may be held during the last month of the year, but it’s really the show that started it all. If not for this annual event, Cooperative Gallery 213 may not have gotten its start. Looks like, in this case, the chicken didn’t come before the egg. “Some of us had the idea of starting a cooperative gallery in the fall of 1999, and we decided to invite anyone who was interested, in to display and sell art at a holiday show,” said Margaret ‘Peg’ Johnston, founding member of the Gallery. “It was quite successful and energizing, and, at the beginning of 2000 we officially formed the Cooperative Gallery.” “We were artists, and we wanted to have a place to show our work; a safe place,” adds Betsy Williams, Chair of Supporting Membership, and exhibiting member. The gallery’s motto can be found right in its name: to be ‘cooperative’ with the community. That is a major part of what the gallery and the Holiday Show are about. “One of our basic missions is to be involved in the community,” explains Williams. “How we relate to the community has always been a priority, and this is a way of showing the community ‘We’re here for you too!’” There are two types of memberships one can have at the Co-op Gallery: Exhibiting, and Supporting.
Just one example of the local wares available at the Co-op Gallery’s Holiday Show. Photo Provided.
Both types help support the gallery and the art community, and both are able to show and sell their work in the “Holiday Show & Sale.” You don’t need to be a long-time member to be involved in the show. The gallery is always welcoming new members, even on ‘drop off dates’ (see bottom paragraphs for details). “This is a time for our exhibiting members to get together with our supporting members,” says
Williams. “The gallery will be transformed!” From pottery to paintings, jewelry, accessories, cards, sculptures, photographs, and prints, there is bound to be a wide array of artwork and gifts that can’t be found anywhere else. “It’s a wonderful time for the public to come in and find things they couldn’t get at Boscov’s or Target,” Williams continues. “People are almost always looking for
Cooperative Gallery 213 is located at 213 State Street in downtown Binghamton. The Opening Gala Artists’ Reception will be Thursday, December 5th from 7 - 9pm. The First Friday Art Walk will be December 6th from 3 - 9pm, and the Closing Reception will be December 22nd from 12 - 4pm. Exhibitor’s drop-off dates are Sunday, December 1st, from 2 - 6pm; and Monday, December 2nd, from 4 - 7pm. Pick-up dates are Sunday, December 22nd, from 4 - 6pm; and Monday, December 23rd, from 6 - 8pm. Holiday hours are Thursdays 5 -8pm, Fridays 3 - 6pm, Saturdays 12 - 4pm, or by appointment. For questions, or to become involved in the show, contact Betsy Williams at: (607) 2373700, or betsyjowilliams@aol.com.
HOLIDAY MARKETPLACE:
December 2013 Triple Cities Carousel 15
A LOCAL GIFT GUIDE “Angels we have heard on high, tell us to go out and buy.” Well, something like that.
It’s the holiday season, and… oh, enough. We like Chanukah as much as the next guy (holla for challah!), but it started in November this year, and chances are, by the time you read this, it’s done and over. So, no need for this non-denominational, politically correct holiday greeting stuff, right? Let’s just say Christmas. Ahem. It’s the Christmas season, and that inevitably means it’s gift giving season. They say it’s better to give than receive, but maybe that’s because you keep receiving crappy presents. It’s a two way street, so how’s about this year, rather than a tin of those gross strawberry candies you bought for $5 at the mall, get a bit more personal. Now, we’re not saying you need to slave away making your own gifts, although that’s always encouraged (check out the Daring Gardenista’s column this month for some ideas on that front). What we’re saying is this: the mall, Wal Mart, and pretty much every big box chain on the Vestal Parkway- that’s all for chumps. Any gift you buy is going to be cold and impersonal, and that’s no way to spread Christmas cheer. Instead, why not take the time to shop local this year? The Triple Cities are home to the widest assortment of small businesses we’ve ever encountered, and they rely on you. Buy local, and you’re not only helping to support your friends and neighbors, but you’re getting a much cooler stock of presents than X-boxes and Blu Rays (although, we would like an X-box, for the record). The list to your right is but a small offering of the local stores you should be frequenting this year. We’ve hand selected them (okay, okay, they’re our advertisers) with you in mind, and we think you’ll really dig what you find. From wine to candles to books and more, there really is a bit of everything on the list. We have refrained from talking too much about gift certificates, but if material goods aren’t your bag, consider a gift certificate to one of the many local eateries, theatres, gyms, or other establishments. And while you’re at it, don’t forget, this here paper makes for some really trendy wrapping paper. But, read it first. Please. We work hard. PS... you’re getting all your friends and family members subscriptions to the Carousel, right?
BLACK BEAR WINERY 248 County Rd. 1 Chenango Bridge, NY 607-656-9863 blackbearwinery.com
Black Bear Winery, located just 9 miles north of Binghamton, is open year round for tastings. A true innovator and the premiere fruit winery in Central New York, Black Bear produces unique, award winning wines you can truly savor, whether you prefer something dry or sweet. Why not give a gift in a bottle this Christmas? We offer a wide variety of fruit wines, ciders, and meads, plus gift baskets, gift certificates, wine accessories, cool shirts, and more! Stop down Tuesday through Thursday from noon to 6pm, Friday from noon to 9pm, or on Saturday or Sunday from noon to 6pm.
THE BLUE EGG VINTAGE MARKET POP-UP 196 State St. Binghamton, NY 607-343-7948 blueeggvintage.com ‘Buy Local’ is this year’s Holiday shopping mantra. Area consumers realize the importance of supporting their local economy. More importantly, gifts bought at a local boutique are a lot more interesting and intimate than a polyester throw bought at ‘door buster’ prices in the mall. This year’s First Friday Holiday Walk takes this concept a step further- buy local AND buy local art. On December 6 and 7 join the Gorgeous Washington Street Association members in a unique shopping experience showcasing local artisans and entrepreneurs. I’d especially like to invite you to our venue: The Vintage Market Pop Up at Atomic Tom’s, 196 State St. We have an eclectic group of vendors selling a wide array of goods. Check out wearable art; unique jewelry from Lauren Terry McCarthy, treasures from Refabulous Furnishings, vintage clothing from The Blue Egg, original clothing and accessories from Sand Dollar Design and Michele Irene Convertible Bags. Ladies and gents, be blown away by Ta Ta TaDa corsets and pjs, get your funk on with Gift of Gab and find that most unusual gift from Mimi Sprague. Relax and enjoy an interactive eating experience with The Cupcake Factory and refreshments from The Blue Egg. See you at The Pop Up!
IMAGICKA 75 Court St. Binghamton, NY 607-348-0090 facebook.com/imagicka75court Imagicka is your one stop shop for those special, memorable gifts. We have the best Sterling Silver Jewelry. We have the area’s biggest selection of gemstones, like Moldavite, Amber, Seraphanite, Sugalite, and all you have come to expect at Imagicka. Unique clothing for women and men, masquerade masks, swords, statuary, home decor, candles, incense, oils and more. Metaphysical supplies of course, but so much more… the only place to buy hand drums! Too many choices? Gift Certificates! Thanks for supporting Local Businesses! You matter to our success.
GARLAND GALLERY 116 Washington St. Binghamton, NY 607-723-5172 garlandgallery.com
19 reasons to visit the Garland Gallery: 01. Buddha Bowls 02. Gumby ornaments 03. Moustaches 04. Rainbow makers 05. Bacon ornaments 06. Inflatable fruit cakes 07. Handerpants 08. Accordion files 09. Mr. Bill 10. Tipsy wine glasses 11. Moustache ornaments 12. Camera lens mugs 13. Squirrel underpants 14. Emergency bow-tie 15. Wonder Woman bendy 16. “We are happy to serve you” cups 17. Rubber chicken ornaments 18. Dining table tennis 19. Not fit for print -ask us
RIVERREAD BOOKS 5 Court St. Binghamton, NY 607-217-7292 riverreadbooks.com RiverRead Books is Binghamton’s very own independent bookstore. We offer a wide array of new and gently used books in every genre imaginable, but that’s not all! We always suggest giving books as presents, but if that’s not your style, stop in and browse our selection of greeting cards, educational toys, and unusual gifts. What kind of unusual gifts? Well, if you’ve ever thought ‘grandma would look really good with a rubber spikey backpack,’ well, we can accommodate. Be sure to stop down on the First Friday Holiday Art Walk for live entertainment and special deals!
ROBERSON MUSEUM GIFT SHOP 30 Front St. Binghamton, NY 607-772-0660 roberson.org If you want a memorable shopping experience that provides special finds and an educational appeal, make The Museum Shop at Roberson Museum and Science Center a destination this holiday season. Roberson’s Museum Shop offers one-of-a-kind items for the holidays and beyond. Not only will you shop and save, your purchases help support Roberson’s public programs, educational opportunities and special events. Explore a unique variety of jewelry, ornaments, books, toys, decorative cards and artwork from regional artists. The shop also features pottery, clothing, canvas bags, a great selection of art and science kits and more. You’ll be sure to find the perfect gift for every occasion with a trip to Roberson’s Museum Shop. If you still happen to have that “hard to buy for” person on your list, consider the gift of a Roberson Membership. A Roberson Rewards Member-
ship provides free admission for an entire year to Roberson, including Digital Planetarium shows. The recipient will also enjoy discounts in the gift shop, reduced ticket prices at various special events and discounts at over 30 local businesses. Roberson’s Museum Shop is open seven days a week during Home for the Holidays.
ROUTE 96 POWER AND PADDLE 1035 Owego Rd. Candor, NY 607-659-7693 powerandpaddle.com The most interesting people in your life have the craziest Christmas lists! We have three stores in one location and an experienced staff to make shopping for the person who has everything a pleasure instead of a chore! For the adventurer on your list, we have hiking boots by Merrell and Vasque, Darn Tough Socks, SUP boards, kayaks, cross country skis, snowshoes and more! And for the hard-worker in your household, you will find power equipment by Stihl and Husqvarna, work boots by Red Wing, and Dansko professional clogs. Plus Carhartt outwear is always on sale! And don’t forget to pick up a freshly cut locally grown Christmas tree on site!
SEA HAG SOAPS AND ART MERCANTILE 1044 McCormick Rd. Brackney, PA 570-663-2297 seahagsoaps.com Not sure what you’re looking for this holiday season? We’re not either, so we loaded our antique barn up with a little bit of everything. We at Sea Hag are known for our handmade soaps, which make a great present, but that doesn’t even begin to describe the wares we have. Our store features a variety of 100% original fine art and crafts for those who are looking to bring a personal touch to the gift giving process, plus local food and more. Jewelry, candles, pottery, colorful socks, Scrabble earrings, and more! The loft is chock full of eclectic antiques, and we’ve got coffee brewing as we await your arrival. Just 15 minutes from Binghamton, Sea Hag is truly a hidden treasure.
WATER’S EDGE MARKETPLACE 3300 E. Main St. Endwell, NY 607-745-7727 watersedgemarketplace.com For the eclectic gift this Chanukkah, Christmas, or Yule, be sure to stop by Water’s Edge Marketplace, next to Julia’s in Endwell, NY. We have a wide variety of hand-dipped incense, jewelry, soaps, and essential oils, not to mention some great clothing choices. Ever think a Ouiji Board tin of mints would make a great stocking stuffer? We also carry a selection of books by local artists and CDs by local musicians! And who could forget the Tarot cards? Of course, when all else fails, we’ve got chocolate!
theatre.
16 Vol. 1 Issue 10
“ANGELS IN AMERICA” FLIES INTO BU rival of the new millennium?
Heather Merlis Staff Writer
When Tony Kushner’s Angels in America first landed on stage, the importance of its themes and the power of its message left an indelible mark on audiences. This heart-wrenching, mind-blowing, two-part play was granted the Pulitzer Prize and Tony Awards, and its first part, Millennium Approaches, is being performed by the Dickinson Community Players at Binghamton University. DCP is an open, inclusive, student-run production company that welcomes students who are interested in any and all aspects of theatre. I spoke with Jared Adam Gordon, a college junior, actor in the production, and DCP’s Publicity Coordinator.
vvv Why was this play chosen? I think this play was chosen because it speaks to people on so many levels- racial, religious, political, sexual, family- and the themes it covers are so broad. It can speak to everyone on a human level. It brings the cast, and audience, and characters all together, and I think that’s why we chose it, aside from its extraordinary impact that it had on the world. Do you know about what kind of impact it had when it premiered? This play premiered in the 90s, even though it took place in the 80s. It humanized the face of AIDS. Suddenly, you had characters who weren’t just a number, or weren’t just a patient. Audience members saw them and they were people; they were human beings, and they were human beings who they related to. Many people saw themselves in those characters who were suffering, and they suffered along with them. And so, it not only raised awareness of AIDS, but it raised the urgency to fight it. It showed the beauty and the struggles of the LGBT community face in a way that no other play had done, so it strengthened the LGBT community. It also brought many other things to the surface: it raised awareness about drug addiction, Judaism, Mormonism, what life was like in the 1980s. Do you think the relevance and the resonance of the play have shifted since the ar-
I think it is just as important and relevant. We can still see themes in our political climate, which, unfortunately, is so divided. Reading this play, you see similarities between now and the 1980s. People still relate to the desire to help America, to cause change, but people still disagree as to what that best change is. Could you describe your character?
I play Prior Walter. Prior is a man who happens to be gay and is very accepting of his sexuality, and he is in a four-year relationship with the love of his life, Louis. Prior’s journey begins with him being diagnosed with AIDS. So, the course of the play is his struggle to come to terms with that. But also, in his time of greatest need, the love of his life isn’t handling it so well. So as his support system is collapsing along with his immune system, he starts hearing things, and he starts seeing things, and he starts sensing that something is coming; something’s approaching. What that is, you have to go and see the show to find out. What have you done, personally, to prepare for your role? It’s very intense. He has to always have an energy to him, a vitality. Yes, he’s dying; yes, he has AIDS, but, despite whatever physical problems, I needed him to be full of life, because that contrast between what is going on internally and externally is where great art is created. What is important is to not only show the heartbreak, but also the strength and the incredible resiliency. Prior is not resigned to death, and I don’t think people who are diagnosed with illnesses are resigned to death. I have to show the character despite the illness. Yes, he has AIDS, but he is not defined by it. What are hoping audiences will take away from this production? People come to this show looking for all kinds of things, because it can provide so many things. As long as I know I can change one person’s life in that audience: bring some sort of closure, or teach something, or help them in some way so that they see my character and they see a bit of themselves. So that they can say, “If he can go through this, if he can go through life and handle it, so can I, and I can handle anything.”
vvv The Dickinson Community Players will be presenting “Angels in America” on December 6th and 7th at 8pm, and on December 8th at 2pm in the Multipurpose Room of the Chenango Champlain Collegiate Center (also known as C4) at Binghamton University. Tickets are $3 at the door.
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December 2013 Triple Cities Carousel 17
ON THE COVER: ANTHONY BRUNELLI
“Parlor City” by Anthony Brunelli. Below: Brunelli with one of his paintings.
(NO, THAT’S NOT A PHOTOGRAPH) Rose Silberman-Gorn Staff Writer
Like many artists, Anthony Brunelli was aware of his artistic inclinations from a young age- an extremely young age. “I knew at four that I wanted to be an artist,” he says. As a child, he would copy Charles Schultz’s ‘Peanuts’ comic strips and give his drawings to his mother’s friends in exchange for gift certificates to art stores. Brunelli grew up surrounded by art, because his mother was an artist who’d given up a scholarship to art school to raise a family. Brunelli’s interest in photorealism began during a 10th grade field trip to various galleries in New York City. When his class stopped by the Pace Gallery, Chuck Close happened to be there with his piece entitled “Fanny.” Brunelli was in awe of the painting, a huge, photorealistic portrait made up entirely of fingerprints, and was thrilled to meet Close. He spent the rest of high school schooling himself in photorealism, buying several books on Chuck Close and the founder of photorealism, Louis Miesel. He taught himself to paint using Close’s method of working from photos and a grid. By this point, he determined that photorealism was the style for him. “I like the discipline involved with photorealism and I’ve always had the hand-eye coordination for it,” he says. “Photorealism takes painting to a degree that’s, to me, the highest level of painting.”
Upon graduating high school, Brunelli was set to go to Columbus College of Art and Design when he found out his girlfriend was pregnant. It was difficult to balance school with a baby on the way, and then a baby to raise, so Brunelli ended up moving back to Binghamton and finishing his last several years at Binghamton University. Somewhere in the midst of working three jobs and raising a baby, Brunelli began painting urban landscapes. The idea came from the advice of his high school art teacher, who had told him to paint what he knew. “At that point, I hadn’t traveled, and I was really nostalgic for downtown Binghamton. I saw that Binghamton was on a decline, and I wanted to preserve it through my artwork,” he recalls. His first urban landscape was of the Park Diner on Conklin Avenue. He took photos of it while on a break from one of his jobs, driving for the hospital. The painting hangs in the Park Diner to this day. By the time Brunelli graduated college in 1993, he’d completed 6 or 7 portraits, 2 1/2 urban landscapes, and had another baby with his now-wife. That same year, his brother John invited him to go on a bus trip to New York City. Brunelli brought along postcards with his artwork and bio on them and mapped out 4 or 5 galleries that showed mainly photorealistic work. The two brothers visited the galleries, dropping off postcards, starting downtown and saving the Louis Meisel Gallery for last. Brunelli got a good response from most of the galleries, but was most excited about the Meisel Gallery. Meisel’s wife, Susan, said that he was interested in seeing original pieces. A month later, Brunelli brought his paintings in, and his childhood icon Louis Meisel became his art dealer, selling his first painting for $12,000. After spending the next seven years painting and
selling urban landscapes of Binghamton and upstate New York, Brunelli found himself sorely in need of new subject matter and new inspiration. This came in 2000, when he was chosen as one of three artists to travel to Vietnam for an international contest. “It was the first time I’d been out of the country and I was afraid to fly,” he admits. “But it changed my life, and it helped me find subject matter outside of upstate New York.” His new urban landscapes of international scenes also helped him find new collectors, and he began to receive numerous international commissions.
Upon returning to Binghamton in 2000, Brunelli was overcome with a different inspiration. Using Soho lofts as a template, he bought a warehouse on State Street, spent the next 6 months renovating it into a loft and a studio, and moved in with his daughters. The warehouse was a former frathouse; the first floor, now Brunelli’s gallery, was originally a rave room. Brunelli founded the gallery because he wasn’t sure how to use the first floor of the warehouse, so he decided to start showing his prints and to bring other artists on board. In 2004, he recruited his brother John, who was living in New York City and working at the Metropolitan Museum
of Art, to run the gallery, which would come to be known as Anthony Brunelli Fine Arts. Brunelli wanted to mentor young artists and give them a chance, as Meisel had done for him not so long ago. Other artists and entrepreneurs followed his example, and more galleries popped up on State Street, creating a thriving art scene in Binghamton. Currently, Brunelli is splitting his time between Binghamton and Florida, where his wife lives. He’s working on a painting of Florence, Italy, and is excited about the release of Louis Meisel’s new book, “Photorealism in the Digital Age,” which features his work. He’s thrilled to have accomplished his childhood dream of being an artist. “It’s the greatest life I ever could’ve envisioned having.” For more information on Anthony Brunelli Fine Arts, please visit anthonybrunelli.com. The current gallery exhibit is the 10 Year Anniversary Group Exhibition, which Carousel covered in the November issue. The exhibit will be on display until the end of January 2014. The gallery is open Saturday noon-4 pm, and can be contacted at (607)772-0485. The gallery is located at 186 State St, Binghamton.
607-222-9225
-Interior -Exterior -Commercial -Residential
Fully Insured
-Decks -Staining -Sand Blasting -Power Washing
KAREEMAH JOHNSON CHANNELS ‘ALICE’ IN NEW EXHIBIT AT QUARTER YELLOW STUDIOS
December 2013 Triple Cities Carousel 19
“The Red Queen,” by Kareemah Johnson
Rose Silberman-Gorn Staff Writer Kareemah Johnson will be displaying her work in Quarter Yellow Studios at Jungle Science for the months of December and January. Her show, called Down the Rabbit Hole, is based on “Alice and Wonderland.” “I’ve been a fan of ‘Alice in Wonderland’ since I was 7,” Kareemah explains, “It’s just a fun place with a lot of creative ideas within it.” Kareemah will be channeling that fun, creative spirit in her show by incorporating many interactive aspects. She’s planning on having 3-D toadstools, a projection of the Cheshire cat that pops up in certain areas, and weird treats available for consumption. “I want walking into the setup to be like walking into wonderland, and I want to get people involved with the artwork,” she says. The 12-15 pieces in the show depict characters from Alice in Wonderland, often feminizing them by putting them in female form, or modernizing them by giving them tattoos. It fits well with the rest of her body of work, which she describes as,
“feminine, whimsical fantasy.” She usually works with acrylics or watercolors, depicting women and fantastical characters with bright colors and smooth contour lines. Kareemah first became involved with Quarter Yellow Studios fairly recently. She’d been living in Binghamton since 2006, after moving from Salem, New Jersey. Creating artwork for her own enjoyment, she had not planned on showing it. About a year ago, someone recommended her to Quarter Yellow Studios Creative Director (and secret pop star) Kady Perry. Starting with JulyFest, she began to participate in QYS’s live painting events. “Kareemah is a local artist with big talent,” raves Perry. “I have been working with her for almost a year and she is a key figure in the artist community. She is one creative and loving soul.” “Down the Rabbit Hole” will be on display from December 6th through the end of January. Quarter Yellow Studios is located in Studio “A” at Jungle Science, on the second floor of 33 Court Street in Binghamton. An opening reception will be held on December 6th from 6-9pm. For more information on Kareemah, please visit: her blog at restlesscreativitywithkariij.Blogspot.com, or her Facebook fan page at facebook.com/Kareemah. Johnson.Art.
triple cities carousel sunday.
01 08 15 22 29
Madrigal Choir of Bing. Lessons & Carols (CHT) KNOW Theatre Playwright’s Festival (KNOW)
Contemplative Installation/Labyrinth Walk (TDS) Sax Studio Homecoming Concert (BU) Hansel and Gretel (AC) The Grinch (EPAC)
A Christmas Carol (CMP) Holiday Jazz w/Glenda Davenport (FHS) The Nutcracker (EPAC) Contra Dance (TTC)
Holiday Show Closing (CG)
“The General” Jim Ford Organ Improv (FORUM)
monday.
02 09 16 23 30
Percussion Ensemble Concert (AC) “Unlikely Dance“ Opening Ceremony (BCAC) Open Mic (BEL)
Open Mic (BEL)
Open Mic (BEL)
Customer Appreciation/Brotherhood (FIVE) Open Mic (BEL)
Open Mic (BEL)
tuesday.
03 10 17 24 31
DECEMB
Belly Dance Lessons (BOS) Yoga/Drawing Lessons (BUN) Science Cabaret (LDC) Speakeasy Open Mic (CCW) Milkweed OUH)
Nukporfe African Drumming/Dance (WATT) Belly Dancing Lessons (BOS) Yoga/Drawing Lessons (BUN)
Belly Dancing Lessons (BOS) Yoga/Drawing Lessons (BUN) Milkweed (OUH)
Belly Dancing Lessons (BOS) Yoga/Drawing Lessons (BUN)
Masquerade in the Mansion (ROB) Casablanca New Year’s Eve (CLUB) Belly Dancing Lessons (BOS) Yoga/Drawing Lessons (BUN) Katie Scott w/Persuasion (FIVE) NYE Bash (LDC) NYE Party (VEN) Zydeco Po’ Boys (BRK) Times Square at Terra Cotta (TC)
wedne
04 11 18 25
Jazz J
Public
Larger Th Primal B
In the Zone
Jazz J
Primal B
The Triple Cities Carousel E each month as a courtesy t we welcome everyone to su dar@triplecitiescarousel.com prior to publication. Space is which have no cost, are picke basis. Triple Cities Carousel any submission deemed to b for any reason. (AC) Anderson Center (AMT) Art Mission Theatre (BBW) Black Bear Winery
BER 2013
esday. thursday.
Jam w/Miles Ahead (LDC) Live Music (KING) Comedy Open Mic (MB) Art in Binghamton (DTB)
han Life, Epic Fright! (AC) Beat – Open Drum (BUN) Pinecone Fletcher (CCW) Live Music (KING) Sonando (LDC)
e with Rod Serling (BUN) Rick Iacovelli (CCW) Live Music (KING) Jam w/Miles Ahead (LDC) Comedy Open Mic (MB)
Beat – Open Drum (BUN)
Events Calendar is featured to our advertisers, however ubmit their events to calenm by the 15th of the month s limited, so calendar entries, ed on a first come/first serve reserves the right to reject be non-arts related, or, well,
05 12 19 26
Vermont Cheddar w/Carol Simek (BTP) Scarpulla, Shafer & Wetmore (GXY) InnerMission (CCW) Holiday Show Opening (CG) The Grinch (EPAC) Cult Movie Night (BUN) Mid Day Concert (BU)
The Midtown Men Holiday Hits (FORUM) Harpur Chorale Holiday Concert (TMC) Mid-Day Concert (BU) A Christmas Carol (CMP) Randy McStine (BTP) The Receptionist (BUFAB) InnerMission (CCW) Binghamton Philharmonic (FORUM) Unity Group (GXY) Triple Down Jazz (TTC)
Vermont Cheddar w/Carol Simek (BTP) A Christmas Carol (CMP) Enerjee Jazz W/Ayana D (LDC) InnerMission (CCW) Zydeco Po’ Boys (GXY)
Claire Byrne’s Christmas Spectacular (GXY) Randy McStine (BTP) InnerMission (CCW)
(BCAC) Broome County Arts Council (BEL) Belmar Pub (BTP) Blind Tiger Pub (BOB) Bobby’s Place (BOS) Blue Orchid Spa (BRK) Brackney Inn (BU) Binghamton University (BUFAB) BU Fine Arts Bldg. (BUN) Bundy Museum (CCW) Cyber Café West (CG) Cooperative Gallery (CHT) Church of the Holy Trinity (CLUB) Binghamton Club
events calendar
friday.
06 13 20 27
Conehead Buddha (CCW), First Friday (DTB) Live Music (BBW), Rick Iacovelli (BTP) Unlikely Dance (BCAC) Art/Holiday Open House (BUN) A Christmas Carol (CMP) Holiday Organ Concert (UPC) Parlor City Indie Market (DTB) Experimental Film Fest (BUN) Old Time Bluegrass (LCT) Virgil Cain (BOB), The Grinch (EPAC) Zydeco Po’ Boys (LDC), Pete Ruttle (OUH) A Christmas Carol (CMP) Live Music (BBW) McStine, Kanaz & Rosati (BTP) Dirty Rotten Liars (BOB) The Receptionist (BUFAB) Unity Group (CCW) The Nutcracker (EPAC) Ugly Sweater Party/Toy Drive (LDC) Pete Ruttle & Friends (OUH)
A Christmas Carol (CMP) Live Music (BBW) Rick Fry (BTP) Gone Crazy (BOB) Woodshed Prophets (CCW) Third Friday Art Walk (DTO) The Burns Sisters (EPAC) Buddha Kings (LDC) Pete Ruttle & Friends (OUH)
Live Music (BBW) Chris Mollo/Jason Wicks Band (BOB) Mike Whittemore (BTP) Raibred (CCW) Pete Ruttle & Friends (OUH)
(CMP) Cider Mill Playhouse (DTB) Downtown Binghamton (DTO) Downtown Owego (EPAC) Endicott Performing Arts Center (FHS) Firehouse Stage (FIVE) Number 5 (FORUM) Binghamton Forum Theatre (GXY) Galaxy Brewing Co. (JS) Jungle Science (JBC) John Barleycorn (KING) Kingsley’s Pub (KNOW) KNOW Theatre (LCT) Las Chicas Taqueria
saturday.
07 14 21 28
Holiday Art Walk (DTB), Sleeping Beauty (FHS) Christmas Carol (CMP), Celtic Christmas! (KNOW) Delta Blues/Gerard Burke (BTP) Odd Man Out (BOB) Jingle Jam (DTB) The Spelunkers (CCW) The Grinch (EPAC) Beauty & the Beats (FIVE) Bryan Adams (FORUM) Lukus Wells Holiday Show (LDC) Experimental Film Fest (CCW/AMT) Madrigal Choir/Bing. Philharmonic (FORUM) Snowflake Ball (PMM) A Christmas Carol (CMP) Singing Chinese Class Recital (BU) Pasty White & Double Wide (BTP) Giant Steps (BOB) The Receptionist (BUFAB) Magnolia Drive (CCW) The Nutcracker (EPAC) The Vogues/The Chiclettes (VEN)
A Christmas Carol (CMP) Glitter and Gold Holiday Concert (PMM) Jamie & Joanna (BTP) Hi Way Fruit Market (BOB) Chris Cernak (CCW) Beard of Bees (FIVE) Lukus Wells Holiday Show (LDC)
Cathy O’Gara CD Release Party (TTC) Beard of Bees (BOB) Jamie Willard (CCW) Lutheran Skirts (LDC) Zydeco Po’ Boys (JBC)
(LDC) Lost Dog Café/Lounge (MB) Matty B’s (OUH) Old Union Hotel (PMM) Phelps Mansion Museum (ROB) Roberson Museum (TDS) The Dancer’s Studio (TC) Terra Cotta (TMC) Trinity Memorial Church (TTC) Tioga Trails Café (UPC) United Presbyterian Church (VEN) Venue Sports Bar (WATT) Watters Theatre – Vestal Pkwy
music.
December 2013 Triple Cities Carousel 25
BRYAN ADAMS, EH? Bryan Adams. Photo Provided.
OUR NEIGHBOR TO THE NORTH REMINDS US THAT CANADIAN MUSIC USED TO BE AWESOME
Julian Kappel Staff Writer
I think Trey Parker and Matt Stone owe Canada an apology. Now, seeing as how I’m writing this article just after midnight following two shifts working one of the most brutal Black Fridays I could imagine, you’ll have to bare with me in regards to some of the more radical theories I plan to expound upon. Let’s start with the “South Park” Guys and our neighbors to the north. For all of you poor, uneducated bastards out there, South Park has a long-standing tradition of highlighting the more ridiculous stereotypes associated with the Canadian peoples. Examples include their benign tendency towards unflinching courtesy; an unbelievably slight, yet ever entertaining variation in their pronunciation of the “about” (pronounced a-boot), and even the way Canadian characters’ heads seem to resemble Pac-Man after a hunger-strike when they talk. I truly have no idea where that one comes from. However, despite being a veritable masterpiece, “South Park: Bigger, Longer and Uncut” took it too far, and now we, the music lovers of the world, must face the consequences. “What consequences,” you ask? Let’s look at Canada’s contribution to the world
of music before South Park mockingly, yet possibly intuitively, took us to war with their country.
pride... for the love of all that is good in this world: Take back Bieber, and return Bryan Adams!
Pre-lyrical-Canuck-bashing, we basked in the beauty of fair-haired angels Celine Dion, Joni Mitchell and Alanis Morisette. We were graced with the musical genius of legends Gordon Lightfoot, Leonard Cohen and Neil Young. We were gifted with timeless classics to sooth us in our darkest moments or to delight in at the highest peaks.
And lo, it would seem the fates have turned their smiling faces upon this great country of ours and seen fit to once again bestow upon us the greatness that is Mr. “Everything I Do.”
Then, in that fateful year 1999, as the world tiptoed upon the precipice of a new Millenium, eager for change and a renewed sense of purpose, the rug was yanked unceremoniously from beneath us and we tumbled head-first into the quagmire that is popular music. Rebel Alanis was replaced with make-up smeared “bad-girl” Avril Lavigne. The unmistakable twang of Neil and irreplacable storytelling of Gordon were drowned out by the whine of started-at-the-bottom (a long-running, hit T.V. show) now-I’m-here (so street, so thug, so Blood) Drake. And then the worst: A man-child with an Ellen Degeneres haircut that is simultaneously loved en masse by teenage girls and pre-50 Shades mothers, and also reviled by entire countries that have effectively barred him access. You know, the Biebs. Canada, I have sent letters attempting to apologize for my fellow countrymen’s taste in music, pleading beyond hope, beyond reason, beyond my own
In truth, I’m not a particularly big fan. I don’t own every Bryan Adams album, I can’t even say I’ve heard every song he’s ever written. To discredit myself just a bit further, when “Cuts Like a Knife” pops up on the radio, I make it less than 30 seconds before I’m cringing at the metaphor. What really matters is that Bryan Adams, in tandem with The Police, ushered me into a world of music that has carried me to nearly every recognizable genre, including some that admittedly sound not quite as pleasant as a horse farting into a fan. It’s a weird journey, but sometimes you just have to press play, lean back and hope the CD doesn’t skip. I was six when a box of Applejacks revealed the buried treasure that was a compact disk, complete with two songs that would be replayed for weeks. The first, ‘Message in a Bottle,’ taught me that a song can be incredibly enjoyable while repeating the same five words over and over if the melody is catchy enough. This has been more and more beneficial as music seems to get more and more repetitive. The second song on the disc was ‘Summer of ‘69,’ by Bryan Adams, which taught me
that a song can actually get your blood pumping. It wasn’t until much later that I realized the thinly veiled theme of the song was indeed pumping blood to certain parts of the body… and not actually a fond, nostalgic throwback to a particularly exciting summer. You’d truly be amazed how effectively a catchy tune can cause an almost instant case of ignorance. If the song produces the desired effect, who the hell cares about dissecting every line and syllable. That’s always been Bryan Adams for me. Feeling, pure and simple. His music has narrated a good portion of my life and I feel I owe him something for that... So thank you Bryan Adams. And we’re sorry Canada... or, wait... we’re sorry, Canadans? Whatever, just get that diaper wearing, kiss-ass, annoying little she-brat Justin Bieber the hell out of our country. Please and thank you.
vvv Bryan Adams comes to Binghamton as part of his solo acoustic “Bare Bones” tour on Saturday, December 7th. He takes the stage at the Forum Theatre at 8pm. Tickets range from $29.50 to $75, and can be purchased in advance through Ticketmaster or at the Forum box office. For more info, check out broomearenaforum.com.
26 Vol. 1 Issue 10
CAROUSEL PRESENTS: CONEHEAD BUDDHA over again. A love that had been rekindled after many years of moving forward, and getting healthy. He reunited with brother and sister horn duo, Terry and Shannon Lynch, who are also veteran members of the band. There was talk of getting Conehead Buddha back together for good. There was a common connection among the three, and they proceeded to move forward with auditioning the spots to fill the rest of the lineup.
Ty Whitbeck Assistant Editor
“My town, my home, I’ve really missed this place, but I didn’t always feel this way,” sings Chris Fisher; lead singer, guitar player, and auxiliary drummer of the band Conehead Buddha. Maybe you’ve heard of them, or maybe you should take heed and follow your old friends from school down to Cyber Café West and relive some of your West Side “Cheers” memories. I’m talking to you, graduates of the 90s. Conehead Buddha will be here on the night of December 6th, and we’re damn happy they’re playing in Binghamton again. It started in ’93. While scrambling for a name for their first open mic spot, Fisher and his gang had a couple of things nearby in their practice space: a three foot tall, hand carved Buddha sculpture, and a road pylon. Penned by original guitarist Chris Kennedy, Conehead Buddha seemed like a natural choice. Shortly after that experience, they dove head first into the tidal wave of the 90s music scene; growing up alongside Yolk, moe., Perfect Thyroid and God Street Wine, as they were all gaining momentum. They quickly became a household name in the Albany area, crafting a concoction of Latin funk, punk, reggae and ska. Perfect Thyroid calls it “skunk” music (ska/punk), which is what a lot of bands were doing at that time. Conehead Buddha was a different strain of that strange; however, lacing heavy Latin/Caribbean flavor, a sense of humor, and some thrash; it fit right in. The high school kids and college frat boys ate it up. Soon, the band took to the road: playing every college,
Currently, and most solidly representing the rhythm section are: Tom Goss on drums, Mike Dunn on the organ and Ben Carle on bass. Rounding out the horns, in addition to Terry Lynch on trumpet and Shannon Lynch on sax, is Shaun Bazylewicz on slide trombone. Ed Wasilewski plays guitar; and Chris Fisher holds down the lead vocals and auxiliary percussion, while also trading off on the guitar. Their sound is fresher than ever; and with this new lineup comes their first record since 1999’s “Rockets.” Their new addition, entitled “Present Perfect,” is, without a doubt, presently perfect. It’s an album that has been anticipated by their fans since the breakup. There’s a lot more emotion and heartfelt storytelling within the lyrics, and the new players sound amazing. The live performances of these songs absolutely kill, and you can tell that they’re glad to be back. The feeling is mutual.
Conehead Buddha. Photo by JD Fielding.
festival, and theater; from Albany to Rochester, and beyond; for nearly a decade. Over the course of their history, Conehead Buddha put out four albums, all of which fueled the experience of their live shows. Roping in a devoted following of fans, they sold out countless venues, peddled a ton of merch, and cleaned out the alcohol supply in many bars up and down the east coast. The strenuous touring and recording schedule took its toll on the band, and in 2002, they decided to call it quits. Some saw it as a hiatus; however, Fisher felt differently. “The hiatus was a breakup,” recalls the front man, “I was just really burned-out
and was unhealthy, both mentally and physically. I needed to stop and try to live a ‘normal life.’ I didn’t think about getting back together at the time, so I didn’t really know what my intentions were for Conehead Buddha.” During his off time, he built a home recording studio, and recorded and produced other musicians, which he still does. “Only if I like them!” he adds laughingly. Fast forward nearly another ten years to 2010, when the band was asked to play for fellow trumpet player, Terry Lynch’s wedding. Falling back off the wagon to fuel his musical addiction, Chris Fisher felt something that day. It was like his first time all
To see the same crowds that were at the shows 10 years ago, all grown up and raising a new generation of Conehead Buddha devotees, is a sight to behold. They’re still throwing down though, and the kids love it just the same. Their music captivates the punks, the salsa dancers, the old, and the young alike, inciting a dance riot almost immediately. Join the Conehead Buddha collective on the night of December 6th, at 9pm, as part of the Carousel Presents Concert Series. Cyber Café West is the place to be. That’s 176 Main Street, Binghamton.
ABTOSMASTER MASSAGES HIS ORGAN: PRESENTS “THE GENERAL” WITH LIVE ACCOMPANIMENT
button because there’s a doorbell in the movie, but to bring the emotions across. And the ideal silent movie theatre organ player wants to not even be thought about during the movie- until you get to the end, and then you realize how much of the movie was important to you because you heard the music that went with it, but you didn’t realize you were hearing it.”
Charles Berman Staff Writer
On Sunday, December 29th, from 2pm to approximately 4pm at the Forum Theatre, the Binghamton Theater Organ Society will present a special showing of Buster Keaton’s much-acclaimed 1926 action-comedy film The General, with live theatre-organ accompaniment by Jim Ford. Before sound became common in the movies, c. 1929 or 1930, the so-called “silent films” that moviegoers saw were, in reality, far from silent. Films were accompanied by live music for the purpose of entertaining the audience and setting the mood. Large theatres sometimes hired an entire pit orchestra, while smaller ones might only have had a piano. By far the most iconic of silent film accompaniments was the theatre organ- a special development, distinct from a church organ, designed to act as a one-piece orchestra (and now all-too-often heard only in the unfairly grim context of funerals). These cinematic music-makers were, in fact, originally marketed as “Unit Orchestras.” Binghamton’s Theater Organ Society came to be as the result of the dedication of a few people who wanted to make sure that a magnificent, well-preserved “Unit Orchestra” in the Binghamton area, had the chance to be heard. The Society’s founder and board member, Paul F. Stapel, explains, “We’re incorporated under the mission of making sure that the public of the Southern Tier knows that there is such a thing, knows what wonderful sounds it can make, knows what it was originally used for, which of course, was
Photo Provided.
accompanying silent movies. And now we do both silent movies and we have actual musical concerts on it.”
it, and we want them to enjoy it. What we try to do is bring the very best artists in, so that they have something to enjoy.”
Binghamton’s instrument is a Robert-Morton Orchestral Unit Organ, manufactured in 1926- the same year that “The General” was released. As the most expensive film ever made, up to that time, it would have played here to packed houses. The Link Family had the organ built for Binghamton’s lavish Capri Theatre, which present-day readers may know as the parking lot of the M&T Bank on Exchange Street. When the cinema-to-bank transformation was taking place in 1976, the organ was salvaged, and via the Roberson Museum, ended up at the county-owned Forum Theatre, where it became the property of the people of Broome. Stapel explains, “Here it is. Something in a Broome County-owned theatre, and the organ was given to, and is owned by, the county. So anyone in the county, who pays taxes anyway, owns a little bit of
In this case, that artist is Jim Ford, one of a select few- fifty or sixty professionals and a couple of hundred good amateurs- who can play the theatre organ well. Ford, a native of Binghamton and a professional musician for many years, helped with the moving and restoration of the organ that he will be playing on the 26th. He’s performed before for the Society, having provided the accompaniment to presentations of the film “The Artist and Wings,” as well as a night of very popular Charlie Chaplin short comedies. Stapel explains that the role of the musician in a silent movie presentation is a subtle and truly unique art form, “In most silent movies, the organist developed his own style of playing to match the movie. Their main job is not to necessarily ring the doorbell
“The General” was chosen because of its popularity with audiences: many consider it Buster Keaton’s best film, if not the best film of the silent era. It’s a heroic comedy in which Keaton’s character, an engineer during the Civil War, manages to win the war and the girl after a series of humorous escapes and confusions. For many years, “The General” held the record as the most expensive film ever made (inflation-adjusted), in large part due to the famous scene where a bridge collapsed under a train. The scene was accomplished by having a real bridge collapse under a real train. “The General” encapsulates the kind of idiosyncratic and well-timed visual lunacy that caused Keaton - originally a very roughand-tumble Vaudeville slapstick performer- to come to be considered a great film artist and a forerunner of Absurdism, and with whom Samuel Beckett sought to work on a film in 1965. Jim Ford’s accompaniment of Buster Keaton’s “The General” will take place on Sunday, December 29th, at the Forum Theatre, 236 Washington St., Binghamton. Tickets are $15 for general admission, $10 for members, $30 for families, $5 for full time students under 22, and free for those under 8, and can be purchased by calling (607) 722-0020, or 773-1495, between 1:30pm and 5pm daily, or at the door from 12pm the day of the show. More information on the Society can be found at BinghamtonTOS.org.
December 2013 Triple Cities Carousel 27
PETE RUTTLE FOLKS IT UP EVERY FRIDAY AT THE OLD UNION HOTEL Pete Ruttle. Photo by Ty Whitbeck.
Heather Merlis Staff Writer
Friday evening: loosened from the chains of the workweek, we are filled with anticipation for two more days of relative freedom. A weekly moment of euphoria meant to be savored, we fill our cups and stimulate our senses. Binghamton’s hub for this brand of revelry is the Old Union Hotel, where Pete Ruttle Friday Nights draw an eclectic crowd, to partake in serious pub grub, lively conversation, and, most distinctly, great music. There is a feeling of sincerity that emanates throughout the bar, and the style of music that is played is down-to-earth without sacrificing quality, a trait that is mirrored in everything from the food served at the Union, to Pete himself. He performs (and handpicks weekly special guests to join him) at the Union on Fridays, and is currently recording a follow-up to his first album, “Night Songs.” I spoke with Pete about songwriting, Friday nights, and our fair city.
vvv What provoked this idea in your mind? I’m friends with the owners, and they love music.
The kind of music I play is kind of more low key, listener-listening room kind of thing. I always liked the idea of an early day show; it changes the kind of music you can play and the audience of people who are there.
and sort of surround myself with them. I have to be alone, definitely. Sometimes it’s serendipity and everything falls into place.
You’re a great singer-songwriter. Have you always wanted to write songs and play music?
When I first started singing, I was singing in choirs, and it was all classical music. The arrangements in great classical works are really cool, and something that I visit a lot when I’m writing songs. Also, really old blues music; I love Robert Johnson and Muddy Waters: very mellow, quiet but commanding songs that people respond to. I love Tom Petty; he’s a great writer, and then your staples like Bob Dylan and The Beatles.
Yeah- I’ve been playing music out in bars locally since I was sixteen. I started writing songs seriously, maybe, four years ago, and it turned out to be something I really liked and found rewarding personally. Once I started moving in that direction I felt like it would be silly not to keep doing it. Songwriting can sometimes be agonizing. Do you ever hit creative blocks? There are songs that I started writing years ago that I tried to push through and finish, and it doesn’t work. I’ve come back to them years later, to find I just have to sit back and wait for it to feel right. There’s a certain energy that goes with every song that you’re not necessarily going to feel at the time you come up with a melody or something. Do you have any rituals to spur your creativity? Sometimes I’ll get in a writing mood and I’ll get all dressed up. I have this coat, this old corduroy jacket; I’ll put that on, put a button-up shirt on, and prepare an area with notebooks. I like having different instruments around, like a piano, a guitar,
Do you have any great influences musically?
How would you describe your relationship with this geographic area? I have a great relationship with it. It’s just a really musical town with a lot of incredibly talented people who form this support group, and it’s afforded me a lot of opportunities to get out and play places and express myself. I’ve moved a lot of places all over the country: Seattle, California; I spent some time in New York City, and I always seem to come back here. Has the area informed your songwriting? Sure. The winters help a lot. That’s a big creative time for me. You’re pretty much forced to be in somewhere where it’s warm and you can reflect on things. Also, growing up, I was exposed to a lot of great music acts coming through here, and I learned a lot. It allowed me to emulate things I
hadn’t been exposed to before.
What do you look for when you’re selecting artists to showcase alongside yourself on Fridays? I try to keep it simple, and pick people who have a really big musical background knowledge, who are established and can draw people in, people who can effortlessly play music with others who they’ve never played with before. Every week, different people come in from Binghamton and they’ll just sit in, and I like them to be able to mesh and hang out with the musicians. What is your favorite part of your Friday evening residency? I like interacting with the crowd. It’s a good feeling to share that universal interest in music. What should a first-timer expect from a Friday evening at the Union? A really welcoming atmosphere, really friendly people, and way-above-average musicians who put on a good show. Great food. Everybody who works there is really nice. Just an amazing, fun experience, and if you go once, I bet you’ll come again.
vvv Pete Ruttle Friday Nights take place weekly, beginning at 5:30pm at the Old Union Hotel, located at 246 Clinton Street in Binghamton.
JOHN SCARPULLA COMES TO GALAXY
28 Vol. 1 Issue 10
Dan Spaventa Staff Writer
On Thursday December 5th, John Scarpulla will take the stage for Thursday Night Acoustic Sessions at Galaxy Brewing Company, joined by Brian Shafer, and Tom Westmore. John Scarpulla plays music that honors trends from the music he grew up with, touching on blues, soul, pop, and Americana simultaneously in his varied catalogue of songs. From slower, somber ballads to triumphant faster tunes, the performance will deliver many different styles and moods throughout. A commanding lyricist that rightfully earns comparisons to early Neil Young, Scarpulla writes lyrics that deal with themes of redemption, love, and perseverance in times of hardship. His grounding in the blues emerges in most of his music. He credits the honesty and integrity of artists like Young, Joe Cocker, and Van Morrison as his main influences. Originally from New York City, Scarpulla started his musical career in his early twenties, busking in the city’s subway stations and street corners. Over the past fifteen years, his songwriting has evolved as he has moved up to playing bars and smaller venues all across New York City and through much of the northeast United States. This often busy touring cycle will yield an upcoming live album. Brian Shafer and Tom Wetmore will join Scarpulla for the performance as his backing band. The group has played together for years, and has toured extensively in the northeast. The band allows for Scarpulla’s music to achieve new depth with deeper
rhythms and grooves. Having played on tracks for Scarpulla’s two albums, Blue Ruin (2008) and Before the Streetlights Come On (2010), the two musicians complement Scarpulla’s bluesy, soulful sound quite well. With an expected lineup of Shafer on guitar and Wetmore on piano behind the strong vocals of Scarpulla, the band will provide a thrilling evening of music for everyone in attendance. The show is part of an ongoing series of small shows at Binghamton’s newest brewery. With a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, the bar/restaurant works very well as a venue for various types of musical acts. After its grand opening in August, the restaurant is now a favorite amongst so many up-and-coming downtown bars and eateries, featuring some of the best original craft ales in town. With food from both new and traditional American styles and numerous vegetarian and vegan options, the menu provides all patrons a myriad of quality options. Empty Pocket Productions is the main sponsor of the event. The promotion and event planning company seeks to bring exciting new music events to multiple Binghamton venues, with a focus on the expanding amount of new pubs and restaurants opening in the city. Ultimately, the company’s goal is to provide the city’s older classic venues and newer venues with new music of any genre. This show at the Galaxy Brewing Company is the next step towards developing an even larger live music scene than the vibrant one that already exists in Binghamton. John Scarpulla, Brian Shafer, and Tom Wetmore will perform at Galaxy Brewing Company at 41 Court Street in Binghamton on Thursday, December 5th. The show begins at 9:00pm and will continue until closing. Admission is free! For more information, check out the event page on Facebook.
WHRW PRESENTS A NIGHT OF MUSIC AT BU
Dan Spaventa Staff Writer
WHRW 90.5 FM, Binghamton University’s free format campus radio station, will host its first annual Holiday Singer-Songwriter Showcase on Friday, December 13th from 7pm until 10pm in Binghamton University’s Old Union Hall. The event will feature student musicians from Binghamton University in an eclectic mix of styles, from folk troubadours to electronic DJs. The lineup consists of many notable BU musicians, including Jesse Gillenwalters, Daniel Kadyrov, Laura Keim, Kieran McManus, Ian Miller, Mikhail Shapiro, Christine Spilka, and Andrew Williamson. Most of the musicians featured have performed on campus and in the greater Binghamton area for the last several years. According to the event’s organizer and WHRW Public Relation Coordinator Marisa Monte, the showcase will take on a different mood than the other prominent Singer-Songwriter competition hosted on campus by Late Night Binghamton. “We hope to create a laid-back atmosphere with a great lineup of diverse music and other fun surprises,” Monte said, “Since this event won’t be a competition, it will give a lot of talented students the chance to perform in a relaxed setting.” The evening’s performers comprise an exciting range of styles. Shapiro and Gillenwalters are fresh from finishing first and second place respectively in the Late Night Singer-Songwriter Showdown. Both Shapiro and Gillenwalters have recorded albums locally and are mainstays in the on-campus music scene. McManus also recently appeared in the Late Night Showdown competition with a set of great original tunes. Williamson and Keim of the band Liberty Belle and the Union Boys will dissolve their union for this show and perform separately. Daniel Kadyrov, who recently debuted under the
moniker KADYROV, will change things up with his chillwave set. Spilka, guitarist of New Jersey/NYCbased band The Jean Jackets, may offer up some material from her band’s newest album, which is due out in mid-December. Finally, Miller will provide the freshest beats in town with his set, sure to get the crowd moving if his previous DJ sets are any indication.
One of WHRW’s goals with the event is to raise money and new toys for donation to charity. These efforts will support the Binghamton University Student Association’s Operation Santa initiative to give to local families this holiday season. All attendees will be asked to either make a three-dollar donation or bring a new unopened toy to donate for the cause. The campus radio station is responsible for numerous successful live music events in the last few years, most notably Moefest, an all day music festival on the last day of classes in the spring, headlined last year by indie rock darlings Real Estate. The Go Folk Yourself Concert Series, which touted strong local acts like Driftwood and Cabinet among others, gave campus a taste of the local folk music scene. Other co-sponsorships with Binghamton Underground Music Presents (BUMP), such as Atlas Sound and Kishi Bashi concerts, brought internationally touring artists to the Binghamton campus. This singer-songwriter showcase will follow in the footsteps of those successful concerts to, as Monte puts it, “bring students and people from the Binghamton community together to support a worthwhile cause and enjoy a lot of great music this holiday season!” WHRW 90.5 FM and Binghamton Underground Music Presents (BUMP) will host the Holiday Singer-Songwriter Showcase on Friday, December 13th at 7pm in the Old Union Hall at Binghamton University. Admission price is $3 or one unopened toy to be donated to local charitable efforts. Snacks and other exciting surprises will be provided. For more information, check WHRW’s Facebook page for updates.
FOR QUOTES AND MORE, EMAIL BMOAS@YAHOO.COM
food and drink.
December 2013 Triple Cities Carousel 29
THE NORTH BREWERY: Zach Pedley of The North Brewery inspects a batch. Photo by Ty Whitbeck.
JUST BEER. DELICIOUS, DELICIOUS BEER.
Maria “Murph” Murphy Staff Writer
There’s no doubt about it - beer is in; and Broome County is on the map with the opening of three new breweries in the past two years, and more to come. Each embraced its own style of beer and atmosphere during its development. What most obviously separates The North Brewery from the rest is that it is simply that, and nothing else - a brewery. While brew pubs are popping up around the area, Zach Pedley (Co-owner and Brew Master of The North Brewery), and his father, Eric Pedley (Coowner), decided back in February to open up a production brewery on “The Avenue” in downtown Endicott. “It’s a brewery, just a brewery, where people can come taste some beer and hang out and talk about beer,” Zach explains. Like most microbrewery stories, this one begins at home, five years ago, with some hops, malt, and a carboy. “My father taught me how to brew,” Zach continued, “And my buddy Joe and I brewed every weekend.” In the four years Zach and Joe brewed together, they produced roughly 150 batches of beer. These were no ordinary beers; Zach describes
his style of brewing as “extreme American craft.”
“We tried to brew beers that were unique,” he says. In his early years of the craft, Zach was very much influenced by companies like Dogfish Head, Southern Tier, and Stone. He still finds inspiration from Dogfish, as well as Brouwerij de Molen, but his biggest influence is a “gypsy” microbrewery in Copenhagen, Denmark, called Mikkeller. In fact, The North Brewery’s “Inspirational Beer Breakfast” ale was brewed in response to Mikkeller’s “Beer Hop Breakfast” ale. Despite being inspired by others, Zach remains true to his own style, and the results of his experimentation, when brewing. “I always want to be able to have large variety of beers available, and have people try beer they’ve never had before. I want people to come in here and try beer that is not of the American beer standard - not even of the craft beer standard.” The North Brewery, or “North”, as it is affectionately known by its patrons, has the atmosphere of a real, and rugged brewery. The smell of spent grain, yeast, and hops, seems to bring out the flavor of each beer during tasting. Whether it be himself, or a member of his wonderful staff, there is always someone behind the bar to pour you a sample, fill a well-priced growler/growlette, or answer any questions you may have. It is an enjoyable place for any beer lover. As Zach says, “I don’t cater to any particular crowd, I cater to everybody!” Nowadays, Zach brews from seven to nine barrels weekly and, in addition, has begun bottling his beer
to be sold at Sam the Beer Man, making The North Brewery the first in the Triple Cities to bottle their own beer (officially, of course). As well as bottling, his beer is on tap at various favorite locations in the area, such as Cyber Café West, The Ale House, Brothers 2, and Feliz Wine and Tapas, with more to come. Zach has donated kegs to many local events and fundraisers, including our own Triple Cities Scare-ousel Fantasmagorical Freakshow Ball this past October [EDITOR’S NOTE: I was unaware he donated a 10.2% beer until my fourth refill. Ouch.].
A Broome County local, Zach grew up in Endicott and is dedicated to helping revitalize the area, especially in contributing to the already growing effort to “bring culture back to ‘The Ave.’” Part of that effort is creating partnerships with other local business owners. Zach has been working with Jerome Scott, from Feliz Wine and Tapas Restaurant (1304 Monroe St., Endicott), since their first “Tap Takeover” back in July. They will be hosting a second “takeover” at Feliz, called the “Holiday Classic,” on December 7th at 6:30pm that will include a holiday style dinner. Tickets and information can be found on the website for either venue. “Me and Jerome are really trying to bring back Endicott,” says Zach. “It’s gonna be a blast!” Speaking of holiday classics, this season Zach will be brewing up some sure-to-be classics of his own. With taps that change every week, this Brew Master is always looking for new and exotic brews to try out. This month, be sure to get a taste of “All the Trimmings,” a Christmas beer to celebrate
the holidays. And no “butts” about it, there is no excuse not to stop in for a growler of “Butthorn,” a delicious raspberry and blackberry beer sure to be a treat. Too sweet for you? Well then, if you’re feeling chill from the cold winter weather you can nestle right up with a nice big jug of “Double D’s” (Zach’s personal favorite), a warm and welcoming double milk stout that will keep you satisfied for hours. Remember, this beer can be a heavy handful (or mouthful), so feel free to nurse on it for a while. For the rest of us, there’s “Festive Porter,” a beer made in honor of “Festivus,” and trying it surely won’t give you cause to “air any grievances.” These are only a few of the beers coming to “North” this month, so be sure to take a little break from your holiday shopping and stop in for a drink. New brews aren’t the only things causing excitement for The North Brewery. There are big plans for the remodeling of the brewery as well as upgrading to three barrels, and forty fermenters, in the next three to six months. Despite his growth and success, Zach doesn’t take all the claim for his fame, and is grateful to those who helped make his dreams possible. “This couldn’t have happened without the support of my parents, and the love of my wife.” The North Brewery is located at 110 Washington Avenue in downtown Endicott, and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 12pm to 8pm. For more information about the brewery, events, and distribution, visit northbrewery.com or call (607) 785-0524. You can also check it out on Facebook.
BINGHAMTON’S ‘MI CASA’ EATS DISHES OUT LATIN FLAVOR
December 2013 Triple Cities Carousel 31
HEALTHY
Stacey Burke Staff Writer
As winter sets in here in the Southern Tier, we see the availability of fresh produce dwindle along with the sun light. However, we do find an array of long lasting root vegetables, as well as nuts and seeds starting in the fall and into winter. According to Ayurvedic principles, winter is the time for us to warm our bodies with cooked, hearty foods as well as to build up the storage in our bodies by consuming higher amounts of protein, energizing us through the cold months. Nuts don’t often take center stage in our meals, but they are great addition to many foods! Not only are they a great source of plant-based protein, but they give you a good dose of your “healthy fats”. Check out any of your local grocery stores, and you’ll be sure to find a wide assortment of nuts surrounding you this time of year. This month’s recipe consists of some of my favorite nuts and seeds- I have made it several times for holiday parties, and always leave with an empty bowl! Spiced Nut Medley Ingredients: 3 cups of nuts (I used cashews, almonds, pecans, walnuts and pumpkin seeds) 1/2 cup of water 1/3 cups of sugar
The spread at Mi Casa. Notice the heaven that is the empanada. Photo by Chris Bodnarczuk.
Chris Bodnarczuk Editor-in-Chief
It was early November as the car crept out of town in the middle of the night. I took one last look at Binghamton in the rearview mirror, and accelerated south on 81. Rumor had it that the snow was coming. I have spent most of my life in upstate New York, and I have experienced Broome County winters for the last five years. I know snow. I enjoy snow. I just wish it would wait until at least mid-December to fall from the sky. And so, when it decides to come before I’m damn well ready for it, I leave. Being a Jew from New York, it’s predestined that I head for Florida. And so, to Florida I drove. 22 hours later, I pulled into Miami, home to the Heat, the Golden Girls, and the best ethnic food in the United States. I had eleven days to eat my way through Little Cuba, Little Nicaragua, Little Puerto Rico, Little Colombia, and Little Argentina; so I did what any good gringo would: I put on the stretchy pants and ran around the city like it was my own personal all-you-caneat buffet. Cubanos, Ropa Vieja, rum, 37 different kinds of plantains, rice and beans, more rum, oxtail stew: I ate it all. On the drive back north, I cursed the Triple Cities over and over: Home of the Square Deal indeed, but not an empanada to be found. Enter Mi Casa. Evidently, all the Instagrammed food pics I took in Miami made an impact back home, because there it was, a Latin restaurant standing tall on Henry Street, like El Dorado rising from the rainforest. It hadn’t been there when I left. But, here it is now, taunting me with the smells of the vacation I just left, the scent of slow cooked pork (I may be a Jew from New York, but freakin’ pulled pork is pulled pork) wafting over the cold parking lot of the post office.
I walk in, ready for anything. Maybe it’s the fact that they just opened the previous week and word hasn’t spread yet, maybe it’s because it’s that odd hour in between lunch and dinner, or maybe it’s because I was exaggerating when I called it El Dorado (the place is pretty unobtrusive and easy to miss), but it’s empty when I sit down. The owners recognize me as “the Carousel guy,” claiming that we’ve gotten drunk together before. This is likely, but troubling. I don’t recognize them, which means we really, really got drunk together. Also, it means that they might not be the type of people I should trust with my food. I throw caution to the wind and entrust them to bring me whatever they want. They bring me everything. First comes a plate heaped high with a sampling of their main dishes. I dig first into the pulled pork, juicy and seasoned and perfectly un-Kosher. There are two different types of chicken on my plate, and both are delicious. Both seem to have been cooked in a tomato-based sauce, so the difference must be in the spices, but either way, they don’t stand a chance against me. And then there’s the oxtail. For the uninitiated, it might sound like an odd cut of meat, but it’s a staple in Latin kitchens around the world. Slow cooked in a stew until it’s fall-offthe-bone tender, I can’t help but pick up the bones and slurp up some marrow. The yellow rice is moist and flavorful, and serves as a perfect place to pour my black beans; the beans are cooked in a spicy sauce of Caribbean seasonings, and could have come straight from 22nd Street in Miami. There is no doubt that I made the right decision, trusting these people with my food.
Having somehow scraped up every bit of food presented to me, I put on my coat and prepare to pay and leave. “Wait, wait, we’ve got a Cubano on the press for you!” Jeez, I’m already in a food coma. Oh, okay, maybe one bite.
1 teaspoon cumin
One bite turns to two, and two bites turns into the whole thing. I’m a huge fan of Cuban sandwiches, and I’m extremely picky about them. This one lives up to the test. While the bread is slightly different than the traditional Cuban bread I’m used to, it’s not bad; in fact, it seemed to add new depth to a sandwich that I never expected to see bring anything new to the table. The cheese, the ham, the pulled pork, the pickles, the mustard- all are engulfed in a perfectly buttery mess of amazingness.
1/2 teaspoon salt
As I munch on the sandwich, the mystery of the empty restaurant begins to make sense: it’s not that Mi Casa is not getting business. It’s that they deliver. Judging by the amount of times the delivery guy came and went, I’d say they’re doing fine, despite the empty seats. I’m glad they deliver. The next time I eat those empanadas, I should probably do so in the privacy of my own home, with the curtains closed and Sade on repeat.
I’m about half way through my plate when the empanada gets delivered to my table. Words can do no justice. It’s beyond incredible; a crispy, flaky crust engulfing pocket of slow simmered and spiced ground beef and cheese. It’s…I can’t. I just can’t. Try it.
This is not to say that it’s not worth heading down to check the place out in person. There’s nothing particularly special about the interior, but it’s comfy and inviting nonetheless. A few tables, a big TV on the wall, good music on the stereo, a giant painted map of the Caribbean, and hearty food that tastes like it was cooked by the warmest of abuelas- that’s all it takes for Mi Casa to really feel like, well, mi casa. In fact, there’s only one bit of criticism I can offer the place, and that’s the drink choice. In a place that feels so authentic, I don’t want a coke. I want Jarritos, or Goya, or some soda I can’t get at Burger King. I hope they switch that up soon, but regardless, there’ll be no deterring me from returning as soon as I can.
The cook asks if I like flan. I hate flan. I tell them to hold off because there’s no chance of me writing anything even remotely positive of that custardy dessert. But judging by the rest of the meal, it’s probably delicious, if you’re into that sort of thing.
Mi Casa is located at 58 Henry St. in Binghamton. They’re still working on finalizing hours, so be sure to call ahead to 607-237-0227. Food is affordably priced (appetizers even more so). For more info, check them out of facebook.
1 teaspoon garam masala (an Indian blend of cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, cumin…Or just use cardamom!)
1/2 teaspoon pepper 1/2 teaspoon turmeric 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon dash of cayenne **Note: All of these are flexible!! Be creative! Do you like spicier foods? Sweeter or saltier? More garlicky? Switch ‘em up! Directions: 1. Pre-heat oven to 325 degrees F. 2. Combine all ingredients in a small pot or saucepan. Bring to a light boil over medium high heat. Reduce temperature and simmer over low for approximately 1 minute (to dissolve all of the sugar). 3. Combine nut mixture with syrup, and toss to thoroughly coat evenly. 4. Spread evenly on a very well-greased cookie sheet. (I used coconut oil on mine, to give a twist of flavor, but use olive oil if preferred). 5. Place in oven, stirring every 5 minutes. Total cook time, about 15 minutes (or until golden brown). **Note: Mixture will become very sticky, so make sure to keep stirring! I place on parchment or wax paper to cool. Enjoy a seasonal, healthy boost!
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wellness.
December 2013 Triple Cities Carousel 33
RETHINKING AUTISM:
NOTES FROM THE FIELD
DR. DAN EDMUNDS (Ed.D., B.C.S.A., DAPA) is the only doctor in Northern PA and the Southern Tier that specializes in offering a drug free relational/existential approach to autism and extreme states of mind. He is the author of “The Meeting of Two Persons: What Autism Therapy Should Be,” and “Being Autistic: An Approach Towards Acceptance and Understanding.” Autism is not a disease or an entity. It is not something that we must seek out to eradicate. Rather, it is a mode of being, an umbrella term to describe how one relates (or does not relate) to the world. If we look at autism as an entity, a ‘thing’, then this leads us to develop programs that will seek to alter the person into something they are not nor will or can ever be. It causes us to seek to alter the person by force, coercion, and manipulation. Behavioralism has sought to modify the person, the existential approach rather seeks to understand. How the autistic person behaves should be seen as a form of communication, possibly the only form of communication they may possess to describe their joys, sorrows, or distress. The world of the autist is often misunderstood, one may see the person flapping their arms, and see this as ‘strange’ and in need of suppression. But, if we look inwardly and explore the meaning behind this action, we may find it is telling us of something, it is indicative of how that person feels. It is one of their few ways to be able to share their experience. A child with cerebral palsy may be autistic, a child placed under conditions of sensory deprivation may be autistic , a child exposed to a toxin may be autistic. Autism is merely a term we have decided to use to label how a person has developed and relates differently to the world. If I am an American and travel to a foreign country and know nothing of the culture or language, I am bound to struggle. If
I am an American and travel to a foreign country but have learned something of the language and culture, it will be far easier. This is the direction I believe that programs to aid autistic persons should be geared. Not to alter the person, but rather to help them to be themselves while also having an understanding of the ‘mainstream’ and being able to navigate through it. I recently met with a 5 year old autistic boy who was non-verbal. He came into the office and began banging his hands on the computer keyboard. The secretary’s immediate response (typical for many) was to suppress that behavior and make it go away. Instead, I told her to let him go. We had a ball pit in the center of the room, and I told the boy that if he wanted to keep hitting the keyboard that I might have to pick him up and toss him in the ball pit. He continued, and I picked him up and tossed him in. He got out of the ball pit and walked back over to the keyboard. This time, he did not hit the keyboard, but outstretched his hands toward it and then fell back into my arms for me to toss him in the ball pit. He giggled and laughed and then spoke the words, “do it again.” I was amazed. Relationship was at the key of this interaction and an emotional connection was forged. I entered into his world, and he reciprocated and entered mine. I worked with an autistic child who was blind and had paralysis in his legs. When frustrated and overwhelmed, he would require a helmet at times, because he would bang his head. Many would dismiss any attempts to engage with him, believing him to be ‘too disabled’ or ‘too troubling’. But even here, there was work done in assessing his environment, seeking to alleviate those things that caused distress and overwhelm. And emotional connections were able to be made with him in spite of his challenges and differences. I let him take the lead, and he would at times grasp my hand and lead me through his house. In spite of his blindness, he knew his surroundings by touch. He enjoyed listening to music and he had one game he would play where he would cover himself with blankets and giggle. These were important emotional connections not to be ignored.
In supporting autistic persons, we must remember these core principles: Presume intellect Because a person is non-verbal or struggles in communication does not mean they are not intelligent or that they have nothing to say. We must explore and utilize the strengths and passions of the person. Behavior is communication We may be making a grave mistake when we simply seek to shut down or suppress with powerful psychiatric drugs what we judge to be ‘unwanted’ behaviors. Behaviors, even those one may deem ‘unwanted’ may be, for some, the only means to convey their needs or distress. Self-Advocacy If we wish to understand autism, we must be willing to enter their world, not force them to enter our own. We must be willing to validate self-advocates and seek knowledge about the autistic mode of being from those who actually live it each day. Relationship To help autistic persons forge emotional connections, navigate through the mainstream, and learn new skills, the key is relationship. We must be willing to forge a bond with the person, to truly seek to understand their experience, their world, how they find meaning, to know them as a fellow human being. Once we forge relationship, we can create a common healing ground Respect It is necessary for respect to exist and this means as well that we do nothing to force, coerce, or manipulate the person. We regard them as a person worthy of dignity. Our role is to advocate and support, not seek to alter the person into something they are not nor need be.
DARING GARDENISTA
Each month, we check in with KRISTINA STRAIN for advice on what we should be doing with our gardens. Kristina lives and gardens in Gilbertsville. By now you’ve probably accepted the inevitable: the holidays are coming. Yep, the countdown is launched, the worrying must commence. There are less than four weeks until Christmas, and what, pray tell, will you get for your crazy old Aunt Louise? We’ve all been there. We’ve probably also all been on the other end: buying the thoughtful, pricey gift you thought would be perfect- only to realize you’d fallen short. I am here to advise you in matters of garden-produced gift-giving. I am here to tell you that, maybe not this year, but maybe next year, with a mote of planning, you can be stocking your stockings with homegrown goodness for not very much money at all. And who doesn’t love edible gifts? This year, I made hot sauce, which is basically just vinegar and ground hot peppers, fermented for a few days. I made pesto and packed it into little mason jars and popped them in the freezer. And of course I pickled stuff- bread and butter pickles, kimchee, pickled beets- but listen, you don’t have to go all crazy like me. You can pull off garden gifting with a rummage around your place and a cursory trip to the grocery store. Try this little number on for size: buy kosher salt, a lemon, a gallon of white vinegar, and a bag of plain old popcorn (NOT microwave popcorn). Mix some dried herbs and maybe a little lemon zest into the salt to make flavored salt- or throw in equal parts pepper to make a rub for grilled meats. Mix half salt and half grated hard cheese with some dried herbs for a popcorn sprinkle. Then put a few lemon slices, maybe a hot pepper, maybe a sprig of fresh rosemary into a jar of vinegar and let it sit on a windowsill for two weeks. Put the salt and popcorn sprinkle in pretty jars, decant the vinegar into a nice bottle, and repackage the popcorn, and you’ve got an awesome gift basket for… let’s see, lemon, salt, vinegar, popcorn… ten bucks? An empty 12-pack box covered with gift wrap makes a fine vessel for your creation. You can probably scavenge up a few decent-looking glass jars to repurpose- a run through the dishwasher will usually soften any labels enough to be peeled off- and those little paper sacks you get at the liquor store can be put to a multitude of packaging purposes. Wink, wink. Our secret. And next year, when it comes time to order seeds for the garden, plan ahead: a few extra basil plants to turn into pesto, some tomatoes to slow-roast and layer in a jar with oil, maybe some cucumbers to pickle? This business of wrapping up easy homegrown or homemade gifts can be addictive. For me, it’s such a welcome respite from the THINGS we tend to surround ourselves with this time of year. Of course, some things are inevitable, but filling a box or basket with cheerful consumables just feels more… whole than going shopping on the Parkway. And if your homemade goodie basket needs a little culinary boost, try stopping in to Tom’s Gifts on Main Street in Binghamton, M&D-R-Nuts in downtown Binghamton, or the Otsiningo Winter Farmers Market at the Metro Center, December 7th and 21st from 9am12pm.
film.
34 Vol. 1 Issue 10
WSKG PRESENTS 2ND ‘STORY DAY’
MARATHON OF
LOCAL HISTORY
Chris Bodnarczuk Editor-in-Chief
What do you find so interesting about local history? Does your own connection with the region help the filmmaking process, or do you find your own personal biases hinder the search for the story?
On Saturday, December 7th, WSKG Public Television will present their second annual installment of STORY DAY. For thirteen hours, starting at 10am, the station will be airing a collection of original documentary films with a focus on the Southern Tier, including biographies of local legends George F, Johnson, Thomas Watson, and Johnny Hart; and their latest, “Agnes: The Flood of 1972.”
Our region has played such a pivotal role in many innovations in American history. From Glenn Curtiss’ work in the early evolution of the airplane to Edwin Link’s flight trainer. These are just two examples of local people who played a large role in, not just local history, but American history. That’s what I try to do: tell a story of a local person or event that played a role in shaping our local, or even our nation’s history. I think because I grew up here in this region I feel an inherent pride and desire for telling these people’s stories. I feel incredibly honored to be able to help put our local ancestors’ lives and achievements in a broader perspective.
Carousel sat down with Brian Frey, a local filmmaker responsible for many of the films that will be shown during Story Day, a man who is often referred to as “the Ken Burns of Upstate New York.” Here’s what he had to say.
vvv First things first. What inspired you to become a filmmaker? I have always been interested in history and non-fiction story telling. I had wanted to write about or teach history since I was in high school. But I got bitten by the filmmaking bug after working as a projectionist for many of the local movie theaters while I was in college, and I found a way to marry the two passions into a career. Tell us a bit about Story Day. Is this the first installment? Where did the idea come from? This is actually our second year of holding Story Day. We did it last year around this time, and our viewers seem to enjoy it. The idea sprung from a suggestion from WSKG’s CEO, Brian Sickora, who thought we should schedule a full day of local documentaries celebrating our local heritage and the films we have made about that history. How do you bring your own creativity into factual films about others? Like many people, I just love a good story. I love to read or watch one, and I love to tell one. I enjoy compelling drama mixed with a story that sheds light on how our region developed and maybe gives out clues on what we need to focus on in the future to thrive and grow. I think many look at history as a dry collection of dates and facts. But, history is full of everything that we could ever want in a great story. Love and betrayal or war and heroism. It’s all there, and all real. I love to find compelling visuals or music that moves the viewer and hopefully tells a great story.
Of the films on the list for Story Day, any favorites? Standout moments in the production? Every film I do has a special place in my heart, mostly because of the wonderful memories I have of the people I have had the pleasure to meet and interview along the way. I’m so lucky to have the opportunity to tell these people’s stories. Everyone I have ever met along these films’ journeys have always been so generous with their time and memories; it’s hard to pick just one. Every time I sit down to interview someone or look through an old collection of photographs, I realize how fortunate I am to be the one to tell these incredible stories. But, if I had to pick one that stands out it would probably be the Johnson film because of the wonderful local response we had to it. I hear your working on a new, local agricultural film. Can you tell the readers a bit about that? It is going to be called “Harvest,” and it is still early in production. But, what I am hoping to do is tell some of the great stories behind the history and evolution of the farming communities in our region. I want to highlight the people, towns and innovations in agriculture that have really helped shaped who we are here in the Southern tier, and in many ways, who we will always be. Manufacturing Industries will always come and go, but the farming community is here to stay, and I think gives vital clues to our past and our future as a region. Finally, George F. Johnson, or Thomas Watson: Who would win in a bar fight? Well, George F. Johnson was a pretty good baseball player and athlete as a youth, but Thomas Watson had him in height and reach. However, in the end those two individuals were not only great industrialists and innovators, but great friends who loved and respected each other. They would only fight over the check at dinner.
poetry.
December 2013 Triple Cities Carousel 35
POET OF THE MONTH: KENNY DERR
Kenny Says: “Inspiration comes in many forms and from many muses. There was a period where pen and paper seemed to have divorced. A series of life changing events and a new family opened that door once again. Some of the poems that follow have drawn on those inspirations as well as reflections of my own travels and life around me. One of my fondest moments in writing came when I was published alongside one of my favorite writers, Mr. Robert Hunter. I hope you enjoy.” Momentarily Paralyzed II
In Time
As I write the lines are waving
Rainfalls on an otherwise beautiful day Softly calling your thoughts away They carry you off to another place, in time....
The ink merely playing in my hand, I can only follow these vibrations are so clear the mind so full of itself Yet so empty & sincere Relaxing, blue angles dancing in the TV’s light I can hear every scratch of the pen do you know the feeling of starring at yourself From inside the mirror seeing through the other eyes back at yourself from deep inside momentarily paralyzed From time to time I sit starring at the walls, breathing wondering to myself was time moving backwards Days to hours, hours to minutes, minutes to seconds All the while the boundaries of reality swaying from side to side Sometimes I feel the pain of millions Seconds later I can’t comprehend a single thought Then, to feel one thought explode like a volcano Millions of thoughts explode in your head Like stars scattered across the midnight sky Your mind can only catch so many The rest are discarded like butterflies Thrown into a strong gust of wind, can you hear their cries Momentarily paralyzed
Terrible Twos When the ups and downs got ya feelin down And blue skies have given way to grey When for the world it seems you’re not too fit And you think surely you’ve lost your way When the moneys tough and the lessons are hard And you’ve questioned your every worth When the path you’re off has you feelin lost And you’ve strayed far from navigation Earth Take a deep breath and hold it inside Till the color fades from warm to pale Close your eyes and look deep inside Simply then, exhale....
If you travel the mind it can help one see Roads of truth of light, even misery We can rise above with internal victory, in time... She’s gently guiding our mind this way Shedding tears of joy sometimes tears of pain Clearing our sight when we absorb her rain, in time If we cleanse the soul, we can find the strength one needs To look inside and find our purity Not perfection, there’s a difference we’ll see, in time... Make no mistake, in every possible way We get miracled everyday With every breath, even when it rains, it shines We’re gonna see in time…. Rain falls on an otherwise beautiful day.......
Jump In The Fire Standing here looking up You can find a tiny hole in the sky And if you look real close you can see A tear drops from the mothers eye And when it falls upon the seas There will come tidal waves of time And when it falls upon the shores Well it will surely blow your mind Jump in the fire boy, you’re bound to get burned Jump in the fire, cause it’s the only way we learn The tears have now rained down May they fall a billion more May the souls who’ve come to take over Rise and open every door And may the sea’s both rough and calm Now sail their every boat May the outstretched arms of the sun Embrace their every hope.... Jump in the fire boy, you’re bound to get burned Jump in the fire, cause it’s the only way we learn
INTERESTED IN HAVING YOUR POETRY FEATURED IN TRIPLE CITIES CAROUSEL? SEND SUBMISSIONS TO: editor@triplecitiescarousel.com
fun stuff.
36 Vol. 1 Issue 10
B.C.
by MASTROIANNI AND HART
HOROSCOPES
Each month, CAROUSEL features a guest horoscope columnist. For December, we welcome JULES GOTAY, a local painter who loyal readers will recognize as the cover artist of our May 2013 issue. As far as we know, he knows nothing about astrology. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) You will see an invisible cat this week, and someone will accuse you of having an ocean in your ear. You will receive a box of screams in the mail. Don’t open it until after you remove your ears. A tiny jazz band will move into your hat.
WIZARD OF ID
by PARKER, MASTROIANNI, AND HART
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) You will meet a mysterious stranger wearing a rainbow wig. He will whisper yellow birds into your boot. This may upset your stomach. Just remember to keep your floor on the ground, and avoid knitting anything that may cause an international incident. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Keep your cool this month, but throw everything else away. Seek financial advice from your dog. Buy a pair of fog scissors, and you will have a clearer view of everything. A trip to the meat market will bring chicken into your life.
DOGS OF C-KENNEL
by MICK AND MASON MASTROIANNI
Pisces (Feb. 19-Mar. 20) Everything in your house will turn blue tonight while you sleep, and the rain outside will fall up instead of down. Don’t forget to fold up the wind and put it in your pocket before you sing opera on top of the Empire State Building. Aries (Mar. 21-Apr. 19) You will lose the Abraham Lincoln look-unalike contest. This will make you realize that you’re much taller than yourself. To celebrate, you will drink three whole bottles of sky, until your voice turns blue. Taurus (Apr. 20-May 20) You will have trouble staying awake long enough to take a nap today. Try waking up backwards, or try getting up before you go to bed. Carrying a bag full of sleep around might also help. Don’t worry, when you get good at it you’ll be able to sleep with your eyes closed.
DEAR RUMMY Got a question for Rummy? He is learned in many subjects, and he is more than willing to make it up the rest of the time. Send your question to triplecitiescarousel@gmail.com. Be sure to put ‘Dear Rummy’ in the subject!
Dear Rummy, My family is coming to visit for the holidays. This is the first time I’ve ever hosted the holiday dinner. This is my problem: my parents celebrate Christmas; my sister married a Jewish guy, and they celebrate Chanukah; and my brother married a woman who celebrates Kwanzaa. What do I cook for dinner? And what kind of music do I play? Help! I want it to be a great holiday. Sincerely, Cultural Conundrum on Court St.
Dear Conundrum,
This is a subject that is near and dear to my heart. You see, I was born to a Jewish mother and a Catholic father, and so the bastardization of holidays is something I have been dealing with my whole life. This year, Chanukah will be done and over by the time Christmas rolls around, but that is not to say you shouldn’t accommodate your sister’s husband. In my house, we have made it a habit to put the Star of David proudly on top of the Christmas tree, which is a good start for you, but doesn’t address your culinary dilemma. I do not know if your brother-in-law keeps kosher or not, but just to be safe, stay away from pork chops or cheeseburgers.
I will admit, I don’t know much about Kwanzaa, other than the fact that it is a non-religious holiday created in 1966 to celebrate African-American heritage. It is based on African harvest celebrations, which seems to be a good place to start with your
menu. Much like you no doubt did during Thanksgiving, focus on seasonal harvests. It’s winter now, so fresh veggies are hard to come by, but try to incorporate some gourds. I’ve eaten some fantastic Caribbean based pumpkin curry soup, and it would fit perfectly into your meal. Your brother-in-law will complain no matter what you serve, so do what you want, but don’t disregard him completely. How’s this: pumpkin curry soup, potato latkes, roast beef (heavy on the horseradish), apple sauce, roasted potatoes, and zucchini? Cross-cultural, healthy, and well-rounded. As for the music, stick to Sammy Davis, Jr. Who doesn’t love Sammy Davis, Jr? A black Jew that hung out with Sinatra? You’re set. A very happy Chrismakwanzikah to you and yours! Very Truly Yours, Rummy
Gemini (May 21-Jun. 20) Someone that you don’t know may turn out to be a stranger this week. Don’t watch any movies that are longer than your hair. Someone that you love may send you a cloud in the mail. Cancer (Jun. 21-Jul. 22) According to the moon in Pluto, you will see a two-headed dog that only has one head this week. Get his phone number. Leo (Jul. 23-Aug. 22) You will find a Capricorn in your bathroom this month. He may offer you free coughing lessons. He may eat your sofa. He may steal your elephant. Or he may not, who knows? Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) This is a good month to pursue your childhood dream of mopping the floor. Follow your doctor’s advice and have your head removed. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) You may lose your confidence this month, but don’t worry, it’s probably under the sofa. Your lucky number is the letter W. Always remember that romance and adventure can be yours, if you comb your hair. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) You will build a house under the ocean this month. You will steal all of the colors from a famous Van Gogh painting. You will steal the freckles from passing strangers. You will read the horoscopes.