CAROUSEL triple cities
february 2016
free
vol. 4 issue 1
your local arts and culture rag.
WEDNESDAY! 2/3
Sultans of Swing 2/10
Jamie Willard
MONDAY!
a binghamton tradition
starts at 8:30
TEAM TRIVIA!
Coffee! Lattes! Steamers!
FIRST TUES.
sign ups start at 7:30pm
music starts at 8
OPEN MIC!
2/17
Greg Neff
FRIDAY!
2/24
2/5
Devinne Meyers
Raibred
LIVE MUSIC!
2/12
22 Beers on tap!
ODE & Milkweed 2/19
Free Wifi! Study Nooks! Comfy Couches!
THURSDAYS!
start your weekend early
with ugly dolphin!
LIVE MUSIC!
Jennie Lowe Stearns 2/26
Banshee Tree
LIVE MUSIC! 2/9 & 2/16
sing your little heart out
on the cyber stage
KARAOKE!
1 76 M ain St. BINGHAMTON
cybercafewest.com (607) 723-2456 open daily 2 carouselrag.com
SATURDAY! 2/6
Voodoo Highway 2/13
Mobday 2/20
Sandwiches! Soup! Salads!
Burgers! Wraps! Desserts!
The Spelunkers 2/27
Adam Ate the Apple
LIVE MUSIC!
inside. editor’s note...4 on the cover...4 music...6 art...18 poetry...18 events calendar...20
theatre and dance...23 food and drink...27 film...31 fun stuff...33 star signs...38 business directory...39
“It’s kind of like how you mutilate effigies of everyone on Facebook so you don’t actually mutilate everyone on Facebook in real life.” -Page 45
CAROUSEL triple cities
P.O. Box 2947 Binghamton, NY 13902 (607) 422-2043 carouselrag.com
PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Christopher Bodnarczuk MANAGING EDITOR Heather Merlis ASSISTANT EDITOR Ronnie Vuolo STAFF WRITERS Doctor B, Krissy Howard, Ilana Lipowicz, Felicia Waynesboro, Phil Westcott, Nick Wilsey CONTRIBUTORS Chris Arp, Sarah Gager, Emily Jablon, Brian Lovesky, Paul O’Heron, Anna Szilagyi
CALENDAR GURU Ty Whitbeck LAYOUT/DESIGN Christopher Bodnarczuk PHOTOGRAPHY Stephen Schweitzer ADVERTISING SALES Christopher Bodnarczuk, Brian Vollmer DISTRIBUTION: Joseph Alston FOR ADVERTISING: advertising@carouselrag.com FOR CONTENT SUBMISSIONS: hmerlis@carouselrag.com (by 10th of prior month) FOR CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS: calendar@carouselrag.com (by 15th of prior month) FOR LETTERS, COMPLAINTS, DEATH THREATS, GLITTER BOMBS, AND OTHER INQUIRIES: editor@carouselrag.com
Triple Cities Carousel is published monthly, 11 times a year (Dec/Jan edition is a double issue). Copyright © 2016 by Triple Cities Carousel. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written consent from the publisher. One copy of Triple Cities Carousel is free each month for regional residents and visitors. Anyone caught removing papers in bulk will be prosecuted on theft charges to the fullest extent of the law. Yearly subscription: $25. Back issues: $3. Queries and submissions should include a self addressed stamped envelope. Advertisers own/control all intellectual property rights to submitted advertisements and agree to hold Triple Cities Carousel, its agents, and assignees harmless from all liabilities, claims, losses or damage of any kind arising out of the publication of any ad submitted on behalf of the advertiser.
Feb. 2016 triple cities carousel 3
editor’s note. Oh, crap. I totally forgot about the paper last month. Just kidding, although that doesn’t seem remotely out of character. No, Carousel just took a much needed break from printing in January; time to relax and regroup. And let me tell you, there were some stellar naps. Mostly I stared at spreadsheets all day. But the naps were so good. The older a person gets, the more they appreciate naps. In Kindergarten, we had naptime for an hour every day. I never napped. I just picked my nose and counted the little holes in the ceiling tiles. So much lost time. Oh, woe, the naps I never took. The break couldn’t have been more beneficial. I got a chance to focus on redesigning the format and presentation of the paper, and the writers got a head start on some of our super double secret upcoming 2016 features. The result is practically a brand new Carousel. In the pages that follow, you’ll find a revamped layout, a handful of new columns, and more than twice the content than we’ve ever managed to cover before, all in the same amount of space. There will be even bigger things in store in March, when we celebrate our three year anniversary: more pages, more content, more drop off points. I haven’t been this excited about the paper in a while. I threw myself into this thing from day one, despite having not even the slightest idea what I was getting myself into, and I’ve been trying to play catchup for three years. There’s never been any time to be excited. I knew how to be a writer, but the whole business thing? The whole design thing? The whole advertising thing? Not the slightest idea. I’m not there yet, not by a longshot. But these last few months have made all the difference. This crazy little arts rag might make it yet. Of course, nothin’ would be nothin’ without nobody. The crazy loons that make this paper what it is: I’m constantly amazed by their creativity and dedication. It’s no small feat to put up with my craziness, but they do, month after month. I’m humbled by their talent. I’m more humbled by their patience. And I can’t wait to see what 2016 has in store for us all. The new illustrations? Compliments of Assistant Editor Ronnie Vuolo (hi mom!). The sudden lack of gratuitous typos? You can thank Heather Merlis. The 54 freakin’ locations in the event’s calendar? The one and only Ty Whitbeck. We’re bringing a few more pens into the pen, too. Be sure to check out our new columnists: Chris Arp, Emily Jablon, Chef Brian Lovesky. And and and… more to come next month! Of course, some things never change. Two months I’ve been working on this issue, and I’m still closing in on two hours past deadline. Off to print! -Christopher Mark F. Bodnarczuk
ON THE COVER “THE EMBRACE” by Giorgio DeLuca “My most recently completed painting started off with random juxtaposition and compilement of random collage scenes from various vintage magazines. The characters within caught my eye, beginning with the gunslinger. I believe they were taken from a movie still. After many hours of playing around with certain placement, I built a scene of dramatic romance from the cutouts. I started the painting with an empty background, working mainly on the characters. After I was content with their detail, I decided to add a triangle formation. I decided to add pink for a color pop, unknowingly symbolizing gay rights. After some thought, I decided to not only keep it, but to work more triangle symbolism and formations to surround. As a whole, this piece resembles the fight for idealistic and eternal love.”
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Sultans of Swing. This page from L: Chris McKhool, Anwar Kurshid, Kevin LalibertĂŠ. Photos provided.
SULTANS AT THE CYBER an interview with Sultans of String bandleader Chris McKhool by Nick Wilsey 6 carouselrag.com
music.
O
N FEBRUARY 3RD, JUNO (Canada’s Grammy) nominees Sultans of String are holding the release party for their new album Subcontinental Drift with special guest sitar master Anwar Khurshid at Cyber Cafe West. Head Sultan and 6-string violinist Chris McKhool and I chatted recently about Pangaea, Anwar’s journey from Pakistan to Canada, and the mysterious subject of string theory, which neither of us had very much to say about: I want to ask you: if continental drift is the movement of the Earth’s continents relative to each other, then what is subcontinental drift? Ha! Well, it’s the movement of the music of the continents relative to each other. Like, the way we thought of it was, Anwar had come from the subcontinent playing traditional Indian music. But music doesn’t stay static: it changes with its environment. So when he arrived here in Canada twenty years ago, he started exploring different kinds of things that he could do with the sitar. And meeting us was great for both of us because we love playing world music, and in a typical show we play everything from Cuban salsa, to rumba from Spain, Arabic rhythms, east coast Celtic rhythms... and then bringing in this classical Indian music approach and seeing it evolve into something really relatable, really accessible; it was fun for us, and really informed our music a lot. And for Anwar it was an interesting process, our pop music sensibilities-- which we have just by virtue of being born in North America. Thinking of songs as being three and a half minutes long, it was a good and fun learning curve for him as well. Because typically a song that he would play would maybe-- he could be playing for half an hour on the sitar and he’s just warming up on a song. And I’m always thinking, ‘what is the listener in the room going to think after the first five minutes?’ So we’re really good for each other that way, in the songwriting and recording process. I really like your answer. It makes me wonder: do you suppose it’s possible that it is not in fact tectonic plates that are moving the continents, but that it could be the music being played on top of the continents? Well, absolutely! And I think if you research the Silk Road at all, and you know, the movement of people and goods and spices through Asia-- or if you study, um, the development of the human race since the beginning-- it’s really interesting to see how food and culture and language and the genome changes over time as everything fans out from Africa through the world. And it’s the same with music: it’s such an exciting time right now, because previously it would take, you know, lifetimes for a certain style of music from a little village in India to makes its way across the world-- you would need a human host to carry that musical tra-
live his truth and not worry about being thrown in jail for having an opinion contrary to the government. With both these band members, we’ve created a space where they can be themselves musically, living in a very diverse city where they don’t have to worry about people acting out against them just for being who they are. And when you hear Anwar play the sitar, you realize that’s really who he is, right? To deny the musical expression of a human being is really to quash their soul. It’s funny, I imagine that some citizens of the United States hearing the kind of world music that you guys are making might never imagine how rebellious it is. We have this whole mythos of rock n roll or rap music being like the lineage of rebellion, right? Yeah. Wild stuff. You’re absolutely right. People are freaking out in the ‘50s and ‘60s about rock n roll turning into other more adventurous forms of music, but yeah. Think of it: the rebellion of rock ‘n roll in the fifties-- that’s basically what Anwar is doing from his culture.
dition and pass it along to their children, and so on and so on. And people immigrated or emigrated around the world. Now we’ve got Youtube and airplanes. Ha! I can sit in my living room and hear any style of music, from anywhere in the world. And the possibilities are endless. Mashing together two styles, or taking instruments that aren’t usually used in a certain style to play it differently… It’s a very exciting time to be alive… completely lost on millennials who have grown up with the internet and don’t realize how incredibly insane it all is right now. It’s interesting. It makes me think of the story of Babel. I wonder, music being nonverbal, if it’s music that’s ultimately, like, doing the heavy lifting of bringing language back into a place where it isn’t creating conflict between different peoples? Well that’s exactly what we try to do with our music. Like we’re actually trying to emulate a model for world peace in our own tiny little way, because we have two completely musical worlds coming together, and sometimes they understand each other and sometimes they don’t. And that’s part of the artistic process too, right? You write a hundred songs so that you can have five really good ones to put on the album. Even more so when we’re combining these really disparate music styles. And yet there’s enough common ground to create
something new and something exciting that hopefully hasn’t been said before. It’s way better than anything we could create with just Kevin and I sitting around, or Anwar just sitting alone in his room in the subcontinent. That’s kind of the Canadian ideal of multiculturalism, which is the mosaic, the sense of the mosaic. You look up at a stained glass window of a church, and you see all those beautiful colors and they all come together to make one beautiful image. And that’s what we’re trying to do, sort of on a daily basis in our lives and with our music. Speaking of Anwar, I read that he moved to Canada from Pakistan so that he could play the music that he wants to with more freedom. What kind of restrictions are there on musicians in Pakistan? Well, it’s a little bit complicated. There are certain religious factions that would not want to have any music playing at all. And in the village where he was, he was not allowed to play his sitar in public. But, he loved the sitar. He really felt like the sitar was his voice. And so it’s kind of an interesting thing, like what if you find out the one thing that you know to be true is something that you’re being denied? And it’s not dissimilar from our percussionist’s story: sometimes we record with Rosendo Chendy Leon, and he’s from Cuba. And he also came to North America, drawn there specifically as a place where he can be free, to speak his voice and to
Do you know anything about string theory? Uh, just absolutely rudimentary basics. We considered calling our band String Theory at one point but there’s another band called that. I don’t know anything about string theory, but I thought that it would be a funny question to ask you. Ha! What projects do you have in the works right now? Well, we’re releasing Subcontinental Drift, so we’re doing a lot of touring right now: Canada, the U.S., and our first real big tour in the U.K. is coming up in June. At the same time we’re recording a Christmas album-- just for something completely different-- and calling on some really fantastic special guests to work with us. Some of them are Canadian, like Benoit Bourque from Bottine Souriante, and Alex Cuba, who just won a Grammy and a Latin Grammy; and then some international guests like Paddy Maloney from the Chieftains, doing some pennywhistle playing with us; and some really fantastic guests in the U.S. who we’re not allowed to name quite yet because it’s not public knowledge, but it’s really super fancy. So that’s been really fun to write, and we’re going to start, you know, really digging in with the recording process. Tie your shoes and hold on to your passports! The planet of sound re-congeals at Cyber Cafe West at 176 Main Street in Binghamton, NY on February 3rd at 8 pm. Tickets are $10 and available at the door.
Feb. 2016 triple cities carousel 7
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what we do, which is basically how we communicate as musicians, but there is a wide dynamic and depth to that sound. The best example is to listen to all four of the Nomad Series albums and the breadth of what we do becomes clear. Your bio mentions that you recorded Whites with an ambisonic microphone. What exactly is that, and what did it do to enhance your sound? It’s a microphone designed to capture the ambient sound in the room. It was used on Whites Off Earth Now and The Trinity Session, which were both recorded as 2 track recordings. How did your formation of Latent Recordings come about? Out of necessity. Alan and I used it to release our first couple of bands in the late 70s early 80s, before we formed CJs. We have kept it around in different configurations ever since. In the early 90s Margo was named one of the 50 most beautiful people in the world in People magazine. What led up to all of that? Part of the promo machine. There were lots of magazine covers and photo shoots in late 80s and early 90s.
The Cowboy Junkies. Photo Provided.
Cowboy Junkies ride into Homer An interview with guitarist Michael Timmins by Ronnie Vuolo
T
HE MUSIC OF the Cowboy Junkies is like life: multi-faceted. From soft, slow ballads to barroom blues, they have the ability to seamlessly transport the listener from one mood to another, with an underlying quiet that pervades their style and allows you to hear every word. With Margo Timmins on vocals, Michael Timmins writing the songs and playing guitar, Peter Timmins on the drums, and Alan Anton on bass, the band plays a wide range of music that encompasses country, rock, folk, blues, and jazz. Margo’s voice - often smooth, clear, haunting, and slightly smoky, can in one moment lull you into quiet introspection, and keep you on your toes in the next. The Cowboy Junkies have been around for a long time. Formed in 1985, they evolved from an earlier collaboration between Michael and Alan. After getting their start performing in Toronto clubs, they released their first album, Whites Off Earth Now, in 1986. Their following release, The Trinity Session - recorded at Toronto’s Church of the Holy Trinity - was named one of the ten best albums of 1988 by The L.A. Times. The album was so popular that they rerecorded a 20th
anniversary edition (in the same church) that featured guest artists Ryan Adams, Vic Chestnut, Natalie Merchant, and Jeff Bird. Nominated for Group of the Year at the 1990 and ’91 Juno Awards, they have been touring and recording prolifically in the years since, all while steadfastly maintaining artistic control over their music. On February 26th, they will be coming to the Homer Center for the Arts. Carousel caught up with Michael Timmons for an interview: The Timmins family seems to be very creatively oriented (brother John is a musician and sister Cali is an actress). Do you grow up in a musical family? Performing music was not part of our upbringing. But music was a big part of our household. Our Dad was a music lover and all six kids in the household inherited that love of music. You were initially involved in a band with Alan (The Hunger Project). How did you hook up with Alan, and how did that evolve into your 30-year collaboration in the Cowboy Junkies? I have been a friend of Alan’s since we were in grade school; we grew up together and basically shared a record collection as kids. It was
almost pre-ordained that we would form a band together. What was Alan’s early background in music? Same as the rest of us: DIY… pick up an instrument and pretend to play it. What was the music scene like in Toronto in the early years? Would you say that the Canadian music scene and the American scene were (and are) on the same trajectory, or do they differ? We all grew up in Montreal and moved to Toronto in the late 70s. It was a great scene back then and still is today. I think music scenes are local and not national, so it’s hard to compare. You are listed as the songwriter for the band. Do you write all the music and lyrics, or is it a group collaboration? I write all the songs and then bring them to the band, and everyone then brings their musical personality and provides their input. In the past 30 years there have been many changes in musical trends, yet some things are timeless. Do you feel that your sound, or what you want to put out there, has evolved or changed over the years? There is a core sound to
In reading old interviews, I saw mention of family, children, and the difficulties of taking children on the road. Are any of the offspring involved in music, either on a personal or professional level? Alan’s oldest child is in a metal band and tours fairly regularly. My youngest is very musically inclined, but is still in middle school. All but two of our kids are still in school. We started late with having kids.... we were busy. Will Jeff Bird, or anyone else, be performing with the band during your performance in Homer? Jeff will be with us. We will be performing as a five-piece. What do you see happening for the band in 2016? Could you discuss a bit about your future plans and goals? We will be touring throughout 2016 and beginning to think about, and starting to work on, the next album. If you had to choose five essential tracks that would best represent the Cowboy Junkies, what would they be, and why? “Bea’s Song.” ”Cause Cheap Is How I Feel.” “Blue Guitar.” “Continental Drift.” “Cicadas.” I like the writing, performing, and production in each. Margo has been quoted as saying that CJ is primarily a jam band, and as with all jam bands, no two performances are exactly alike. No matter how many times you’ve seen them, each show has something about it that is fresh and new. And so it will be at their performance in Homer. The show beings at 8pm on the 26th at the 400-seat Center for the Arts located at 72 S. Main Street in Homer, NY. Tickets are $38 general admission, $32 seniors (60+), $28 students (18+), and free for military and veterans (with ID) and children under 18. They may be purchased online at cowboyjunkies.com or center4art.showare.com. Further information can be found on the websites or by calling (607) 749-4900.
Feb. 2016 triple cities carousel 9
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C
AROUSEL GOT A chance to speak with Preston the last time he came to Binghamton, in May 2014. Here are some highlights from that converstation: On his introduction to zydeco: “I started off with accordion. My dad had one in the house and all. There was this old man that was my step grandfather, well he’d play music. Pretty much three, four songs… When I was a youngin,’ they had house bands and stuff; my parents would play music together. And they had a house band; parties. They’d cook and have a good time. I was more interested in, when I was young though, growing up, in rock and roll music and blues and stuff.” On tradition: “Me, I’ve been brought up with it in my past. My mom and dad trained us to speak French [the language of choice for many in the Louisiana bayou]. I learned more from my grandmaher and my grandfather didn’t speak English… But, the generation now, it’s English. They’re going with the times, I guess.” On his children: “Every week they was practicing. Every week. And they hated it so much, but when it paid off I was happy. We’d be home, and they’d be complaining, and I’d say ‘play it right or don’t play it at all.’ So I was very strict on them, and Keith, too, I guess. All that work we did when they was young, coming up, I think it paid off for them.”
Preston Frank. Photo by Rosie Newton.
& Big Daddy Zydeco Preston Frank The zydeco great returns to Binghamton with some very special guests by Chris Bodnarczuk
M
ardi Gras comes but once a year. Incidentally, so does the day after Mardi Gras. And as any Mardi Gras reveler (or career alcoholic) will attest, the only way to face “the day after” is with the hair of the dog that bit you. That is to say, just one more. The day after Mardi Gras, the fine folks at Galaxy Brewing Company (they know a thing or two about “the day after”) and the fine folks at Triple Cities Carousel (we know nothing about “the day after”) are offering music lovers in Binghamton one more dance (see what we did there?) with an event we’re calling Fatter Wednesday. And we’re bringing in the heavy hitters for this one. No post- Mardi Gras dance party would be complete without a zydeco band, and as it turns out, we know the best players around. You’ve heard of Preston Frank, right? Of course you have. The famed accordionist is the patriarch of a family whose name is prac-
tically synonymous with zydeco. A fourth generation Southwest Louisiana musician, Frank (along with his children Keith, Jennifer, and Brad) is perhaps solely responsible for the import of Creole music to upstate New York; his family’s yearly six hour long late night dance tent performances at Trumansburg’s Grassroots Festival (as Preston Frank & the Zydeco Family Band, later as Keith Frank & the Soileau Zydeco Band) are things of legend on the festival circuit.
those names still might sound familiar. Jim, Jed, Richie, and Rosie all make fairly regular appearances in the Triple Cities region, most recently as the old-timey folk foursome Red Dog Run. Their haunting melodies and expert musicianship, as well as impressive resumes, have made them one of the most talked about groups in the tight-knit New York roots scene. And since they’re coming to the party anyway, we figured we might as well have them play a set!
On February 10th, Frank headlines our day-after bash, leading a musical who’swho with a project called Big Daddy Zydeco. Joining him onstage: guitarist Jim Miller, cofounder and former front-man of Grassroots’ host band Donna the Buffalo; upright bassist Jed Greenberg (also a former member of Donna the Buffalo); world renowned clawhammer banjo player Richie Stearns (The Horse Flies, Natalie Merchant); fiddle player Rosie Newton (The Duhks, The Pearly Snaps); and drummer Ryan Cady (The Horse Flies).
Red Dog Run kicks off the evening at 8pm. Preston and Big Daddy Zydeco follow. Who knows? They might play all night. Be sure to bring your dancing shoes… and show up early: Galaxy’s Executive Chef, Brian Lovesky, is serving up some very special Louisiana inspired specials for dinner!
For those not so versed in zydeco music,
On his introduction to Donna the Buffalo: “Jim Miller called me and he asked me if I remembered him from a show. He had been in Louisiana on vacation or something. I said ‘no.’ And then I said ‘I remember people there from out of state, and one guy had a hat on like a leprechaun.’ He said ‘I’m the one you’re talking about!’ I remembered him because he had a leprechaun hat on. And I had to think a while. He said to me, he said ‘we’re having this festival, Grassroots,’ and then I ended up getting started with them.” On his legendary all-night dance parties at the Grassroots Festival: “I started up with them, and I enjoyed it so much, and the people, they look like they appreciate the music when you’re playing out there, so that’s how we ended up doing the tradition. My kids was real young, but we started off playing at the all-night gig Saturday nights… I asked how long to play, and they said ‘if they like it, sunrise.’ It’s a tradition now, playing till daylight. I kind of backed off, but Keith is doing the same thing, now… I’m getting kind of old for this kind of stuff now. But, it’s still going.”
Fatter Wednesday with Preston Frank & Big Daddy Zydeco (and special guests Red Dog Run) takes place Wednesday, February 10th. Tickets are $12/advance, $15/door, available now at Galaxy Brewing Company (41 Court St, Binghamton) or online at galaxybrewingco.com.
Feb. 2016 triple cities carousel 11
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ODE. Photo Provided.
Swedish folkies take to the Cyber An interview with ODE by Doctor B.
O
DE IS A SWEDISH folk band. Their name is taken from the first letter of each member’s first name: Olle Linder (percussion, guitar, vocals), Dan Svensson (percussion, vocals, guitar), and Emilia Amper (nyckelharpa and vocals). Their sound draws not only upon traditional Swedish folk idioms, but modern ones as well. Think something like, say, the early Pentangle. Currently touring the United States, one of their stops is Binghamton’s Cyber Cafe West. I spoke recently, via e-mail, with Olle Linder and Emilia Amper: Doctor B: Your repertoire is made up of all-original material, no covers. That’s impressive, and the opposite of what many bands do. What made you and your band decide to take that route? Olle Linder: The usual thing for bands that play traditional music is to play old tunes, and maybe in more modern arrangements, and that is something I really like. In a way, that felt already done, so the interesting thing for us was to see what comes out if we make our own traditional music. It wouldn’t turn out traditional, because we as persons are already so inspired by so much different music. Still, the songs will be referred to polska, schottis, or vals, typical styles within the
Nordic traditions. Another thing, is that we wanted to write lyrics about ourselves and the world today, and it feels more genuine through our own material. DB: You’ve made several trips to South America to study Latin grooves. How did you get interested in Latin rhythms? How do they fit into ODE’s sound? OL: It struck me in my early twenties that I loved listening to Brazilian music. When something gets me going, I have to discover the secrets and learn how it works. I have realized that what usually is referred to as “Latin music,” is a universe of styles and origins, fusions of many traditions. In ODE, I just let it influence the “folk music” we do. For example, I’m very inspired by the 7-string guitar playing in samba music, and I play our polskas on a Brazilian 8-string guitar like a samba. DB: The nyckelharpa is a traditional Swedish bowed instrument that’s a crucial part of ODE’s sound. Would you briefly describe it for our readers? Emilia Amper: The nyckelharpa is a traditional Swedish instrument with roots from the medieval ages. It’s played with a bow, like a violin, but it’s a little bit bigger and held in front of you like a guitar. Instead of putting the fingers on the strings to shorten it and make the different notes, there are rows of
keys (nyckel) that you push with the left hand fingers, that go in and shorten the string. It has four strings that you play on, and also twelve sympathetic strings that function like a built-in reverb. It has a really special sound, both deeper than a violin and, at the same time, with a silvery treble to it with these softly ringing sympathetic strings. From being a local traditional instrument for some centuries, and even facing extinction at some points, the nyckelharpa is now going strong and growing in numbers and becoming popular all over the world. New models are being made, and new genres like baroque, other traditional music, rock, and so on, are being played on it. And there are a number of nyckelharpa players in the U.S. as well- check out the American Nyckelharpa Association! DB: Emilia, has played all over the world. She once performed with, and had a piece (“The Telemann Experiment”) written for her by Deep Purple’s Jon Lord. How did she join ODE? OL: Well, Emilia and I met when she was attending a concert I was performing in. She had just come back from a world tour and went to hear this traditional Swedish Christmas program that I was part of. Apparently, she knew all the band except me, and when we got introduced to each other I immediately thought that she might be the perfect nyckelharpa player for the trio I had in mind. I had carried the idea of a trio with nyckelharpa for a while.
DB: Your percussionist and guitarist, Dan Svensson, has said that,”…when in need, anything can be an instrument.” What’s the most unusual thing you’ve seen him make music with? How did he join ODE? OL: A few years ago he made a concert with old agricultural implements. For example, he was drumming on a combine and made the most beautiful sounds! As mentioned, I had had the idea of forming a trio, and a few years earlier than I met Emilia, Dan contacted me on MySpace with a friend request. When I heard him singing and playing his own stuff, I knew I wanted to play with him! But it was when I first met Emilia that I realized that here are the makings of a trio, and it depends on me to make it happen! DB: We’re glad that you chose The Cyber Cafe in Binghamton as a stop on your U.S. tour. What appealed to you most about it? OL: Yes, we are so much looking forward to coming and playing at this place, I have heard so many good things about it! I guess it is the good-vibe atmosphere and nice people which has influenced our choice! ODE plays Cyber Cafe West (176 Main St, Binghamton) on Friday, February 12th, with special guests Milkweed, at 8pm. You can find out more about them by going to: odemuzik.com or cybercafewest.com.
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music briefs BREAK OF REALITY AT THE STATE OFFICE BUILDING
It’s First Friday in Binghamton (that’s 2/5), you’ve drank all the free wine you can stomach, and you’re wondering “What’s next?” Well, for sake of argument, let’s say you’ve got $25 bucks in your pocket, you’ve been confused by the hordes of people apparently walking towards work on a Friday night, and you’ve just picked up this fine publication. Bully for you! The answer: the intriguing quartet of musicians that make up Break of Reality. So, here’s the deal: Break of Reality is a phenomenal cello rock group, based out of the Eastman School of Music in Rochester. Percussionist Ivan Trevino says, “Our sound came naturally from studying classical music by day in school and going to rock clubs by night... We’re classically trained musicians, but also understand and love the raw qualities of rock; this dichotomy is very clear in our sound.” Their original material retains the classical sensibility you would expect from Eastman, but contains within it the intensity of bands like Dream Theater and Tool. Speaking of Tool, check out Break of Reality’s cover of “Lateralus” on their website, breakofreality.com. The State Office Building is part of Government Plaza, 38 Hawley St. in Binghamton. The concert will be on the 18th floor. Tickets are available online for $25 at binghamtonphilharmonic.org.
PEACHES AND CRIME AT LOST DOG LOUNGE
Peaches and Crime can be found playing all across the Southern Tier and beyond, and their sultry blend of song, showmanship, and vaudeville flavor have awed both crowds and critics. Before the mayhem that will ensue at the “The Man Who Died: A Murder Mystery Musical” at the Roberson Museum, you can catch this band of crooks crooning on February 5th at the Lost Dog Lounge. Their music is a blend of styles that were more prevalent in the 1920s-40s than today, and because of that you’re not likely to hear original music like theirs anywhere else around. From Mike the Fist’s infernal keyboard to the Professor’s wit, not to mention the sensual singers who sway round the room, Peaches and Crime is sure to make you want a cigar and bourbon in a dim-lit corner lounge. The Lost Dog Lounge is located right next door to the Lost Dog Cafe, at 222 Water St. More information about Peaches and Crime can be found at peachesandcrime.com. There is no cover charge, but this is a 21+ event. Please, drink responsibly.
ESQUELA AT THE RANSOM STEELE
Bovina is a small town in Upstate New York that has produced some of the most interesting musicians in the area. Esquela is the Spanish word for funeral notice, but Esquela’s music makes you feel alive. Playing original, soulful music, it proclaims itself to be “Bovina Rock.” If this is true, than Bovina Rock must be steeped in the blues, with a heavy does of classic rock and political activism thrown in for good measure. In “No Questions,” vocalist Rebecca Frames sings “The preacher says/ ‘Thou shall not kill’/ except in wars voted on/ in Capitol Hill.”
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Justin Moore. Photo Provided. War and politics are consistent themes for the band, and remembering that the small things in life are worth fighting for. The band grounds itself in the locality where it was formed, but uses this to appeal to universal themes to which we can all relate. Their original blend of roots rock and Americana will fit perfectly at the Ransom’s intimate stage, where they’ll be performing on February 6th. Also playing on the 6th will be Tomahawks Bluez and Boogie Band, a local blues outfit that will complement Esquela’s magnificent sound. The Ransom Steele is located at 552 Main St in Appalachian. The show starts at 8pm, and tickets are $5.
composer. J.N. Hummel’s concerto in E-flat major will also be performed, featuring the incredibly talented Frank Gabriel Campos. This concert is also one of the last chances you may have to see Maestro José-Luis Novo, as he will be leaving the Philharmonic in April. The Forum is located at 236 Washington St. and performances will begin at 3pm. Tickets range from $20-$45, or are $10 with a student ID. Tickets and more information are available online at binghamtonphilharmonic.org.
BING. PHILHARMONIC DOES DVORAK AT THE FORUM
Once again, Lost Dog Café will be home to the rocking-est, most banging-est party in Binghamton on Fat Tuesday, February 9th. The food will be delicious, the music will be rambunctious, and the party is sure to be one to remember. The party starts at four and goes until 10 o’clock. The music will start off in the Lost Dog Lounge at 4:30pm, with Ragtime Ric Pedro playing kick-ass ragtime tunes until 5:30pm. After you finish your cocktails, head over to dining room, where the real fun will start. The Basin Street Dixieland Jazz Band will play in the Cafe from 6:30 until 9:30, rounding off the evening’s entertainment. Led by trombonist Dennis Martin and made up of some of Binghamton’s most talented musicians, combined with delicious King Cake and every sort of amenity you could hope for, Lost Dog Café is where you’ll want to spend your Mardi Gras. There is no price for admission- just food and beverages.
Antonín Dvořák was one of the major composers of the 19th century, and his work helped define nationalist music. One of his most popular and successful pieces of music was written while he lived in the United States, as director of the National Conservatory of Music in New York. The piece is influenced by Native American rhythms and themes, and Neil Armstrong brought a recording with him to the moon. It’ll be performed by The Binghamton Philharmonic at the Forum Theatre on February 7th. Other pieces being performed include Mozart’s Symphony No. 25 in G-minor (K. 183, if you’re interested). The modern listener may be most familiar with the opening movement as the soundtrack to the beginning of the film Amadeus, about the life of the famed
21ST ANNUAL ROCKIN’ MARDI GRAS CELEBRATION AT LOST DOG CAFÉ
The Lost Dog Cafe is located at 222 Water St. More information is available at lostdogcafe. net.
JUSTIN MOORE AT MAGIC CITY MUSIC HALL
Justin Moore will be performing on the Labatt’s Concert Stage at Magic City Music Hall on February 12th. Did you know Justin Moore wrote a song called “This is NRA Country”? There’s even a music video. If you “love the stars and stripes” and “a man in his overalls plowin’ across his piece of ground,” this is the show for you. If “USA, God and family and being free,” top your to-do list, Moore’s music will grease your pig. If you gather round the radio and sing, “We hunt and fish and teach our kids not to live life in a hurry, it’s where I was raised, this is NRA Country,” then I think you might like Moore’s patriotic anthems. He was also the ACM Best New Artist of 2014. His new album is called You Look Like I Need A Drink. I need a drink. Magic City Music Hall is located at 1240 Upper Front Street. Tickets are $39.50; more information available at themagiccitymusichall.com.
PUDDLE OF MUDD AT MAGIC CITY
You may best remember Puddle of Mudd from the early-to-mid-2000s. Their music is a mix of grunge, pop, and forgetting to use the bathroom before you sing. The lead singer is still rocking the same haircut, but the guitarist’s new cut? Man, it is fine. All straight up. Makes you wanna partay. You’ve
definitely heard their music. Remember that song “Blurry”? No? Remember wanting to “take it all away” after someone “shoved it in my [your] face, explaining it to me [you]”? I do. I remember crying while I was eating ice cream, playing Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2x on my xBox (original). I was classic 2000s teenage whiny angsty boy. I’m proud to say I’m no longer a boy, but it won’t stop me from reliving my darkest teenage moments in the crowd at Magic City on February 17th. Binghamton rockers Wreckless Marci will open up, and they define themselves as playing party music, so you know they’ll get the show started. One Day Gone from Sayre, PA will also open. Tickets are $20 in advance, or $25 the day-of.
DUGGAN AND LYNN AT CRANBERRY COFFEEHOUSE
Dan Duggan and Peggy Lynn are something of celebrities in Upstate folk music. Peggy is “The First Lady of Adirondack Music” and has won national acclaim for her soulful voice and intricate songwriting. Some of her work was featured at the renowned Bluebird Café in Nashville. Dan Duggan is nationally recognized for his superb hammered dulcimer and flat-picked guitar playing. In 1985, he won the National Hammered Dulcimer Championship. Peggy and Dan Duggan’s album “A Stitch in Time” celebrates the culture and art of quilting, which is a longstanding tradition in Upstate New York (see: winter). They’ll be returning together to the Cranberry Coffeehouse, one of the longest running traditional music showcases in Upstate New York, on February 20th. Cranberry is now in its 43rd season, and although it primarily focuses on folk music, it is open to many other types of acoustic music. With a comfortable, intimate setting, the Coffeehouse will be the perfect afternoon for cold February afternoon. The “middle set” is open to all, but performances are limited to five minutes. The Cranberry Coffeehouse is located within the Unitarian Universalist Church at 183 Riverside Drive in Binghamton. There is a suggested donation of $8 at the door, and performances start around 7:30pm. For more information, call (607) 754-9437.
COMPOSERS AT THE CONFLUENCE AT BU
Composers at the Confluence presents some of the newest music from Binghamton University composers, and highlights the talents of its musicians. There are three featured composers at the February 25th event. Evan Flury writes neo-classical music influenced by ‘folk’ artists such as Sufjan Stevens. Richard Hugenine has been described as a “polytonal linear minimalist.” What this means, is that his music is minimalist, but in a more succinct way than John Cage or Philip Glass.
James Budinich writes harmonic music that twists itself in unexpected ways. Binghamton University has a strong tradition of composition talent, and these three men – who span diverse backgrounds and different generations - are no exception. Retired professor Christopher Loy’s legacy has lived on through his former students, and the late Peter Browne’s talent for teaching harmony and melody can clearly be heard in their works. The concert will take place at 7:30pm, and is located in Casadesus Hall. Admission is free, but arrive early, as the hall is sure to fill up fast.
LIZ FRAME & TRAVIS ROCCO AT RANSOM STEELE
Liz Frame and the Kickers have been gaining steam over the last five years. They’ve taken their unique Americana sound up and down New England and the Mid-Atlantic, and on the 26th, they bring it to the Ransom Steele Tavern, with guest the Travis Rocco Duo. Liz lists among her influences Elvis Presley, B.B. King, and the Weavers, the groundbreaking folk quartet which brought Pete Seeger’s music into the American consciousness with their hit song, “Wimoweh.” Frame’s powerful vocals have been compared to Lucinda Williams and Dolly Parton, and her lyrics are at once intimate and relatable. Her band, the Kickers, are no slouches either. Stand-up bass player Lynne Taylor is a sight to see in action, and lead guitarist Pat Chamberlain’s tasteful licks add to the already engulfing sound. Travis Rocco is a New York Citybased singer/songwriter who has shared the stage with Switchfoot, Walk the Moon, and the Dropkick Murphys. His original music is reminiscent of artists such as Ed Sheeran and Peter Bradley Adams. Just at home playing covers as originals, his smoky tenor lends itself to the pop-rock music of modernity. The show starts at 8pm and tickets are $7.
CONCERTO AND ARIA WINNERS CONCERT AT BU
Each year in the fall, Binghamton University challenges its music students to duke it out. The Concerto and Aria competition was always a highlight for me as a student, as I was able to watch the most talented of my peers play the most difficult music in their repertoire. The only thing more satisfying than this show in the fall, is hearing the winners of the competition play with the backing of the entire Binghamton University Symphony Orchestra, which happens on campus on February 28th. It’s a switch from night to day, as the sweeping vocals and soaring melodies are encompassed by harmony. The show will take place at 3pm in the Osterhaut Concert Theatre at the Anderson Center. Tickets are $7 for the public, $5 for faculty and staff, and free for students.
Music briefs compiled by Phil Westcott. For coverage consideration, please email music@carouselrag.com
EXPLODING
FINGERS
GUITAR DOJO A monthly monthly lesson lessonininmusic musictheory theory from from guitar Arp. guitar player playerextraordinaire extraordinaireChris Chris Arp
W
ELCOME TO THE EXPLODING FINGERS GUITAR DOJO. Each month we are going to discuss the subject of music theory and how it relates to the guitar. As an individual who has been playing guitar for roughly 25 years, and has been giving guitar lessons for at least half of that time, I have always thought it was notable how many guitarists are technically proficient with their instrument, yet do not know a lick of music theory. Heck, many guitarists don’t even know the names of the notes on their fretboard. But still, with nothing more than will and instinct, these players have showed me time and again how they can play some great music. One of the great joys I have had being a guitar teacher has been seeing these player’s eyes widen with excitement as the simple “secrets” of music theory are uncovered for the first time. This column is dedicated to that moment. So where should we begin? There is so much one can cover. How do you make a major scale? How do you build chords? How do I learn to jam with my friends? The topics are varied and plentiful. After some brainstorming and planning I decided the first topic of this column would explain what a diatonic chord progression is. The term diatonic refers to only notes found within a particular key. For example, we will use the key of C major. C major is great because it consists of only natural notes – no sharped or flatted notes. In other words, if you were to only play the white keys on the piano you would be playing the C major scale. So then, a diatonic chord progression is a chord progresFig. 1 sion that consists of chords whose notes only come from a single shared scale. In this case it will be the C major scale. Figure 2 displays the major, minor and diminished triads that are diatonic to the C major scale. Notice that the notes that each chord uses is spelled above each corresponding diagram. Notice that there are no sharps or flats used by any of these notes. Since the C major scale only uses natural notes, and these chords only use Fig. 2 natural notes, it is easy to see that these chords share a unified key – C major. Therefore, if you were to write a chord progression only using these chords you could say that the chord progression is diatonic. So what’s the point? Oh, little learner, there are many. For starters, this unifying relationship will come handy when writing songs, bringing intuition to melodies, and making sense of how to get your “jam band on” with your buddies. More on that to come. But for now, I want you to just understand what the terms diatonic, and diatonic chord progressions, mean. You can check out the website below to see a video example of how to play all of these chords. In the meantime, go ahead and get familiar with these chords and have fun! For questions, comments, or private guitar lessons in the Binghamton area please contact me at explodingfingers@hotmail.com.
explodingfingers.com/carousel.html Feb. 2016 triple cities carousel 15
Giorgio DeLuca A Mystery Wrapped in an Enigma Wrapped in Really Nice Clothes “Self Portrait II” by Giorgio De Luca. Opposite: “Dies Irae.”
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by Heather Merlis
art.
G
IORGIO DELUCA LIKES to maintain an air of mystery, which, for him, doesn’t seem to require much effort. And if it did, he probably wouldn’t tell you.
piece took him six months to complete, and he has already shown it online. “Everyone automatically thinks [the rabbit costume] is a Donnie Darko reference; it’s a lot deeper than that.” He elucidates, “You know how rabbits are always, like, that test animal? That’s kind of like what it was. It was me as a child, with me as an adult, with this iconic woman in the background. What was different about that piece was that the whole thing was done in the Fibonacci sequence, which made it so difficult to complete.”
His work is impossible to find online, and when I met him at JungleScience Gallery and Art Laboratories, the walls were completely bare. When I asked if he had any paintings with him, he replied with a simple “no.” Interviewing DeLuca feels a little like chipping away at a geode: he’s not eager to reveal much, but there is something to be discovered. His luster isn’t all hidden, though; while DeLuca is a man of few words, he seems to communicate with the world largely through his visual presentation of self. “That’s still growing, I feel. Every day it’s different. I don’t really know who I am just yet. I’m still learning that.” At 25, while his identity is still developing, he already has a lucid sense of style; though it may change from day to day, there is a thread of edgy refinement and humor holding all together. But what he wears most comfortably is mystique. “It’s just kind of my nature, I feel,” he says, when asked about secrecy. The absence of his artwork – from the public gaze, from the gallery in which we sit – is nothing new. “I’ve been hiding it for years. Not altogether… I’ve been showing a few pieces here and there, but this is the first collaborative thing that I’m actually putting out there.” What I have seen of his work up to this point has been dark, personal, and reminiscent of certain local contemporaries. For this show, DeLuca is collaborating with Barry Barosky, an old friend and fellow painter. “His stuff is very similar to mine.” The two attended high school together; now Barosky lives in Philadelphia. “It’s something we’ve been planning for years.” Considering that the two artists will be displaying their work together, despite the fact that they are working in different cities, I wonder if it would be cohesive. “I think it will speak for itself once you see it,” he attests. The theme will be “Valentine’s Day/ Anti-Valentine’s Day,” according to DeLuca, though the more I speak with him, the more I suspect there may be some grander motifs at play. The show is called TREPANATIONS, which is the “ancient form of drilling into one’s skull to release demons,” he explains. “I guess that’s the way we describe our artwork, because our stuff is more of a personal diary.” Painting has been DeLuca’s language for most of his life. “I’m usually known as a quiet person,” he shares. While his work is an expression of his emotions and experience, he says that “at the same time, I want the viewers to come up with their own meaning for each piece.” Most of the pieces that will be shown are recent works of both of the artists,
though DeLuca will be including some older pieces as well. “I’ve just been collecting them, I guess.”
and at the same time, camouflaged within it,” DeLuca says of this group. “I’m doing my own thing.”
DeLuca moved here from Scranton to study filmmaking and directing at Binghamton University, then transferred his focus to painting. “I was into the noir movies, Hitchcock, and stuff like that… old horror. I wanted to bring that aspect into modern-day cinema.” He made some experimental films, but “nothing really serious.” He explains, “I felt more passionate towards painting, because I was doing that my whole life.”
One contemporary creator whom he does cite as an inspiration is Gottfried Helnwein, an Austrian-Irish visual artist who works with various media. Helnwein has collaborated with the band Rammstein, as well as Marilyn Manson, and his subject matter can get quite dark.
His family encouraged his growth as an artist, having named him after Giorgio de Chirico, a metaphysical painter who helped shape the Surrealist movement. “Since I was three, my parents set me up with all kinds of supplies and stuff, and were like, go at it.” He cites de Chirico, as well as Salvador Dali, as influences. DeLuca’s technique – though not his subject matter – also brings to mind the work of Dillon Utter, his local contemporary. “My cousin,” he corrects, “so it runs in the family.” It does, though the two do not share the grandfather from whom Utter inherited his love for painting (as well as some of his materials). Both Utter and DeLuca have a way of depicting depth – particularly in creases and shadows – that feels exaggerated to the point of being perverse, as if the folds in their subjects’ clothing are seeping into oblivion. “It’s just something you get lost in; it’s not something that’s pre-planned. As I’m painting it, it’s something I just carry out.” He and his cousin have acknowledged this aesthetic similarity, but that’s largely where the parallels end. “[Utter’s] subject matter is kind of, like, street subject; but mine, a lot of it goes back to actual self-portraiture.” There is a cabal visual artists in Binghamton that is particularly affiliated with JungleScience, and one can detect their influence on each other. “I feel like I’m a part of it,
DeLuca’s Surrealist influence shows itself mostly in his backgrounds and landscapes, and while he is interested in portraiture, his recent work has grown to be more personal. “It’s just a diary,” he says. “That’s what makes it so difficult, when I’m doing a new piece, because I don’t know where to start off. It always comes from nothing.” In terms of materials, he uses the same mediums as the Old Masters; all of his paintings are done in oil, though he sometimes incorporates mixed media, like old documents. When it comes to communicating messages through his paintings, DeLuca would like to leave that up to the viewer. “Either you get it, at first, once you see it, or you don’t at all.” He recalls: “A lot of people, when I showed in the past, they were kind of disturbed by [my work]. I showed a few here, back in 2012 – they were self-portraits with bloody noses – and people got really disturbed. But I like that.” He admits, “That’s the kind of reaction I’m going for. So this show, I’m trying to go for the ten-fold […] I feel that kind of gets the point across, and definitely makes people feel something. I want people to feel something from seeing this, not just looking at it for two seconds, then moving away.” When asked him to elaborate, he replies, “It’s kind of hard to do without the stuff here.” The only piece at the show which will not be for sale is entitled Dies Irae (Day of Wrath). It includes a depiction of DeLuca at age four, which was referenced from a photograph, to which he added a pink rabbit costume. The
Having recently been given a Masonic compass as a gift, DeLuca decided to use the tool to create this painting. He measured out everything, using a pencil at first, to place each character, down to the details “of the grass blades, and why there are hills in certain formations, and why each cloud is in there,” he says. “And that’s why I kind of got lost in it, why it took so long. I wasn’t expecting that much… that much work.” Of Dies Irae, he reflects, “At first I hated it, but now, as I’m looking at it, I like it more and more. I kind of get that way with each painting. It’s an artist thing.” Another painting, The Embrace (shown on the cover of this issue), began as a collage. The main image was “taken from a Hollywood movie still,” DeLuca says. “Some cult film I don’t know the title of. I took the still and blew it up. I was experimenting with a different style.” As for the pink triangle in the background of the painting, he claims it wasn’t a nod to homosexuality – at least not initially. “I realized it after the fact. I felt like going with it. But that goes back to Nazism... It makes it a little bit more controversial.” After extricating what I could from him, my biggest takeaway was that he planned on keeping things elusive. “I want a lot of people to show up and see what I’ve been hiding, but I still want to keep the mystery,” he says of TREPANATIONS. “Barry and I have been discussing that, for the show, we’ll actually have duct tape over our mouths and play the silent card. I don’t know if that’s actually what’s going to happen… but we’ve discussed it. We’ve also been describing it as the funeral we’ll be able to see in our lifetime, like, our funeral.” Having grown up next to a cemetery, the contemplation of mortality is nothing new to DeLuca. In fact, it shaped who he is. “We’re going to become part of the show ourselves, as living art.” Perhaps the show has already begun. TREPANATIONS will be drilling into skulls for a full month, with its opening reception on Friday, February 5th, and its closing on Friday, March 4th at JungleScience, located at 33 Court Street in Binghamton.
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poetry.
THE POEMS OF ANNA SZILAGYI
Anna Szilagyi is in her senior year studying English and women, gender, and sexuality studies at Binghamton University. She is the president of the university’s Slam Poetry Club, and facilitating their writing workshops is the highlight of her week. Her writing has appeared or is forthcoming in Glass Mountain Literary Magazine, Bustle, and The Fem Literary Magazine. She likes to dissect topics like feminism, gender, and family stories in her poems. When she is not writing, she reads Margaret Atwood and cross stitches feminist sentiments.
A PORTRAIT OF MY PARENTS IN 1992 I found a picture of my parents from my mother’s surprise bridal shower. I’ve heard this story from her side before– she was miserable. My mother hates surprises. But in this photo, my parents are young and smiling, my mother with her cropped, dark hair, like Demi Moore in “Ghost.” My father looks down, his face round like a child’s. My mother wears a blouse with the sleeves rolled up and dangling earrings, my father a Florida Marlins t-shirt. They are in love for the second time. Soon, they will elope with only their two best friends present, my mother in a cream-colored suit with a skirt–not white, but cream, to defy sexist wedding traditions. There is a picture from this day in our living room, now. They are kissing, standing on a rock, fall foliage frames their bodies. There is no photo of my mother on the phone with my father’s mother, in tears because they broke up, or my father with his first wife, or my mother’s eternal fight with her body or their late night worry about money when they decided my mother would stay home with me and quit her job. The frames hold the stories they’d feel comfortable telling acquaintances and neighbors we secretly hate. The frames hold people my brother and I never knew, the flawed and reckless twenty-somethings we will never know. To learn your parents are human beings is to admit they had lives before you existed, lives you will never fully learn. There will always be gaps between the timestamped photos and the glass, or scrapbook plastic. There will always be a world where my parents lived and loved without ever thinking of me.
ODE TO MY BODY This is an ode to the fluffy blonde hair on my legs at ten years old that turned dark brown on my right leg from being in a cast for six weeks. When the doctor took a sharp, buzzing razor to the plaster, he cracked it open like a clam, or a geode, but instead of a pearl or gleaming purple crystal, inside was my leg, thin and hairy and covered in dead skin. My mother couldn’t wait until we got home. She took a brown paper towel and wet it, then started scrubbing away at my shin. This is a praise of my uneven legs. At a regular yearly check up, the doctor declared one of my legs one quarter of an inch shorter than the other. This caused a slight curve in my spine, as if someone pulled up an “S” and stretched it. A shoemaker carved me a small lift to place in my shoe to straighten the bend. No one could tell it was there, not even me. This is a prayer to my twelve-year-old growth-spurt body. Like a puppy, my head and hands looked too big for the lanky rest of me. The skinny jeans that came in that season fit perfectly, though I hoped for a chest that needed more than a training bra, that was ready to move on to full-time work. And a prayer to the softness that came after, that my mother called “a woman’s body,” the weight scientists say is necessary in order for women to ovulate. To the prickly skin in-between shaves. To the soft hair I let grow in-between shaves. To the sweat marks on my clothes and the pink acne scars that refuse to fade. To the body I have been learning my whole life. I am still getting to know you.
SUBURBAN WITCHERY
HEAVEN
At girlhood sleepovers, we’d play games. Not like makeovers, or truth or dare. We’d recite the story–
When I die, I want to go to my idea of heaven. I want to meet every author whose words my fingers touched in awe and thank them. I want to watch dogs who were once sick play in a field together. I’d see elderly couples who died within days of each other renew their vows and listen to the songs of long-gone crooners.
I don’t know where we first heard it, someone’s older sister or cousin or friend from another school had the legend passed down to them. One of us would lie on her stomach, and from above, another girl would tell the story. That wolves or rabid dogs were chasing you through dark woods. You were stumbling over branches and roots trying to get away. You ran as fast as you could, but the wolves caught up. She would say this in whispers, both because the parents were asleep by now and because it was scarier that way. And we’d lift up the other girl’s pajama shirt, the one lying down, eyes closed, dreaming of running through woods, and she’d have red scratches on her back. Pink lines from where the dogs’ claws scratched her. We didn’t know how or why this happened, only that it worked. This magic, our witchery under the suburban night, our quiet 2 a.m. hauntings. At this hour, anything was possible. By morning, her skin would be unscathed. In all that daylight, the mothers clutching car keys as we finished our pancakes, we spoke nothing of the wolves, only shared sly, syrupy smiles and trudged out to the car, still in our pajamas.
And I would make it there, somehow, though the crown of my head was never bathed in holy water and I can count on one hand how many times I’ve seen the inside of a church. This place only exists in my head, but isn’t that faith at its finest? When my body burns to ash, I will feel nothing. I will already be somewhere else. I hope my spirit will be the apprentice to another, wiser ghost, and she will teach me how to haunt, benevolently. Not the cliche techniques– no turning lights on and off or cooling down a warm room. I will drift through walls like nothing and watch my loved ones grieve and smile over them, and they will feel it, but dismiss that feeling. “Oh, it’s nothing,” they’ll say. “I’m being stupid.” I might resemble a ball of light or a wisp of smoke. I might find a home in a stranger’s house and make myself comfortable. I think of this when I know I do not want to believe in nothing. I think of my heaven and my body as air and everything else shrinks down so small I can barely see it
Interested in having your poetry featured in an upcoming issue of Carousel? Please email 3-5 poems and a short biography to Heather Merlis: poetry@carouselrag.com Feb. 2016 triple cities carousel 19
triple cities carousel carouselrag.com mon. sun.
01 07 08 14 15 21 22 28 29
Argentine Tango Lessons (ATOM) Open Mic (BEL) BingPop Beginner Photo Wkshp (LDC) Team Trivia (CCW)
The Fantasticks (CMP) Bing. Philharmonic: Dvorak & the New World (FRM) Sassy Sundays (TRQ) Binghamton City Limits (MGRX)
Argentine Tango Lessons (ATOM) Open Mic (BEL) BingPop Beginner Photo Wkshp (LDC) Team Trivia (CCW)
Trio Trilogy (AC), Fantasticks (CMP) The Manhattan Dolls (FHS) Technicolor Dreamcoat (FRM) Visiting Mr. Green (KNOW) VDay Dinner (TRAD), Sassy Sun (TRQ), City Limits (MGRX) Prix Fixe Valentine’s Dinner (CTR) Wine & Chocolate Pairing (BBW)
Argentine Tango Lessons (ATOM) Open Mic (BEL) BingPop Beginner Photo Wkshp (LDC) Team Trivia (CCW)
American Idiot (EPAC) Visiting Mr. Green (KNOW) Sassy Sundays (TRQ) The Outlaws/Tumbleweed Highway (MGC) The Telephone/Trouble in Tahiti (TCO) Binghamton City Limits (MGRX)
Argentine Tango Lessons (ATOM) Open Mic (BEL) BingPop Beginner Photo Wkshp (LDC) Team Trivia (CCW)
University Symph. Orchestra (AC) Rick Pedro Ragtime Piano (FHS) Visiting Mr. Green (KNOW) Sassy Sundays (TRQ) Binghamton City Limits (MGRX)
Argentine Tango Lessons (ATOM) Open Mic (BEL) Pizza Party USA (USA)
(AC) Anderson Center, BU (ATOM) Atomic Tom’s, Binghamton (BBW) Black Bear Winery, Chenango Forks (BCA) Broome County Arena, Binghamton (BCAC) Broome County Arts Council, Binghamton (BDT) Binghamton DoubleTree (BEL) Belmar Pub, Binghamton (BGL) The Beagle Pub, Johnson City (BHMN) Bohemian Moon, Norwich
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tues.
02 09 16 23
Speakeasy Open Mic (CCW) 3’s - 5’s: Groundhog Crafting (FH) Swing Dance (REX) Book Release Party: The Big Rewind (RRB) Jimmyjohn McCabe (OUH) Team Trivia (MGRX)
Mardi Gras Celebration (LDC) Swing Dance (REX) “The Island of Dr. Moreau” Disc. (YHPL) The Bark-9 Program Continues! (YHPL) Team Trivia (MGRX)
(BSP) Blarney Stone Pub, Norwich (BU) Binghamton University (BUNP) Binghamton University Nature Preserve (BUN) Bundy Museum, Binghamton (CAL) Callahan’s Sportsman’s Pub, Binghamton (CCW) Cyber Café West, Binghamton (CMP) Cider Mill Playhouse, Endicott (CRAN) Cranberry Coffeehouse, Binghamton (DTB) Downtown Binghamton (DTO) Downtown Owego
One More Act (BUN) Swing Dance (REX) “See You In My Dreams” Screening (YHPL) Team Trivia (MGRX)
Paint the Phelps w/ Uncorked Creations (PMM) Swing Dance (REX) Team Trivia (MGRX)
wed.
03 10 17 24
Jazz Jam w/Miles Ahead (LDC) Sultans of String (CCW) Charity Pint Night – PMM (WSB) Art Spa w/Tula Welness (POW) Devinne Meyers/Deep Cuts (CAL) Anne’s Project Classic (FH) Open Mic (PLC) Johnny & Lonnie (JBC) Brian Swan (MGRX)
Fatter Wednesday w/Preston Frank & Big Daddy Zydeco (LDC) Polish Baltic Philharmonic (AC) Open Drum Circle (BUN) Charity Pint Night – PMM (WSB) Deep Cuts Pro Jam (CAL) 3’s – 5’s: Make Animal Valentines (FH) Jamie Willard (CCW) The Picklers (MGRX)
Jazz Jam w/Miles Ahead (LDC) Charity Pint Night – PMM (WSB) Devinne Meyers/Deep Cuts Pro Jam (CAL) Anne’s Project Classic (FH) Greg Neff (CCW) Puddle of Mudd/Wreckless Marci (MGC) Joe Stento (MGRX)
Open Drum Circle (BUN) Charity Pint Night – PMM (WSB) Deep Cuts Pro Jam (CAL) Anne’s Project Classic (FH) Devinne Meyers (CCW) Rob Stachyra/Robbie Perez (MGRX)
(ELK) Endicott Elks Lotge BPOE #1977 (EPAC) Endicott Performing Arts Center (FH) Finch Hollow Nature Center, Johnson City (FHS) Firehouse Stage, Johnson City (GXY) Galaxy Brewing Co., Binghamton (HIB) Holiday Inn, Binghamton (JBC) John Barleycorn, Owego (JS) JungleScience, Binghamton (KNOW) KNOW Theatre, Binghamton (LDC) Lost Dog Café/Lounge, Binghamton
(MB) Matty B’s, Binghamton (MC) Metro Center, Binghamton (MGC) Magic City Music Hall, Bing (MGRX) McGirk’s, Chenango Bridg (NB) North Brewery, Endicott (ORG) Original’s Bar and Lounge, O (OUH) Old Union Hotel, Binghamt (PLC) The Place on Court, Bingham (PMM) Phelps Mansion Museum, B (POW) KAPOW Art Now, Bingham
thur.
04 11 18 25
The Fantasticks (CMP) Ugly Dolphin (CCW) Mike O’Connor (BHMN) Adam Ate the Apple (BEL) Open Mic (BSP) Poetry Open Mic (BEL) Trivia (CAL) Comedy Night (MGC) Liz & Jim Hull (MGRX)
The Fantasticks (CMP) Ugly Dolphin (CCW) Dove Creek (BHMN) Adam Ate the Apple (BEL) Open Mic (BSP) Poetry Open Mic (BEL) Trivia (CAL) Comedy Night (MGC) Bruce Beadle Band (MGRX)
Ugly Dolphin (CCW) Open Mic (BSP), Triple Down (RST) Adam Ate the Apple (BEL) Humble Beginnings(MGRX) From Recipe to Market (FH) Herb Class (YHPL) The Telephone/Trouble in Tahiti (TCO) Poetry Open Mic (BEL), Trivia (CAL) Comedy Night (MGC)
Ugly Dolphin (CCW) Pamme Swan (BHMN) History Happy Hour (PMM) Adam Ate the Apple (BEL) Open Mic (BSP) Peter Pan Fairy Night (YHPL) Poetry Open Mic (BEL) Trivia (CAL), Hummel's Mug (MGRX) Comedy Night (MGC)
ghamton ge
Owego ton mton Binghamton mton
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fri.
calendar of events february 2016 sat.
Peaches & Crime (LDC), The Fantasticks (CMP) Sabor Latino (CTR), EL Downey/Peaches & Crime (LDC) Hearts for Hope (HIB), Dist. Thunder (MGC), Bro-hood (FIVE) Poetry Night (STC), BYO Vinyl (CAL), Game Night (PMM) Raibred (CCW), Night Hike & Marshmallow Roast (BUNP) Hummel’s Jug/Pasty White & Doublewide (RST) Parlor Cats/Doug & Eammonn Hubert (PLC) Trepanations (JS) Stoutmen (MGRX), Woodshed Prophets (JBC), P. Ruttle (OUH) After Hours EDM (SHP), Darcy Dawn & Company (TD)
Hacksaw Jim Duggan (RLF), The Fantasticks (CMP) Beard of Bees (PLC), Beauty & the Beats (FIVE) Pasty White & Doublewide (JBC), Visiting Mr. Green (KNOW) Gravelding Bros/Lone Ryderz (RST) BYO Vinyl (CAL), Pete Ruttle (OUH) After Hours EDM (SHP), Splash! (TD) Valentine’s Dinner (TRAD) Ode/Milkweed Duo (CCW) Searson (MGRX), Justin Moore (MGC)
(REX) Rexer’s Karate, Endicott (RLF) The Relief Pitcher, Binghamton (ROB) Roberson Museum, Binghamton (RRB) River Read Books, Binghamton (RST) Ransom Steele Tavern, Apalachin (SCPH) South City Publick House, Binghamton (SHP) The Shop, Binghamton (STC) Southern Tier Crossfit, Binghamton (TD) Tioga Downs Racino, Nichols (TCP) Ti-Ahwaga Community Players, Owego
Deveroe (JBC), Ugly Dolphin (CCW) The Telephone/Trouble in Tahiti (TCO) BYO Vinyl (CAL), Triple Down (RST) Open Mic (BSP), Adam Ate the Apple (BEL) Mike Davis & the Laughing Buddha Episodes (ORG) From Recipe to Market (FH) Al Gore Rhythm (PLC), Herb Class (YHPL) The Telephone/Trouble in Tahiti (TCO) After Hours EDM (SHP), The Revelers (MGRX)
Splash (FIVE) Visiting Mr. Green (KNOW) Liz Frame & the Kickers/Travis Rocco (RST) BYO Vinyl (CAL), Pete Ruttle (OUH) 3 Fingers Leroy (TD) Distant Thunder (PLC), Banshee Tree (CCW) Shout at the Robots (JBC) Marv Williams/Acoustic Brew (ORG) String of Pearls (MGRX), After Hours EDM (SHP)
(TRAD) Traditions @ the Glen, Johnson City (TRQ) Tranquil Bar & Bistro, Binghamton (USA) ‘Merica (WSB) Water Street Brewing, Binghamton (YHPL) Your Home Public Library, Johnson City
06 13 20 27
Voodoo Highway (CCW), The Fantasticks (CMP) Fundraiser for Taze Yanick (BEL), DJ Space One (LDC) The Revelers (BTP), Greg Neff (FIVE) Rhapsody & Roses Fundraiser (PMM) Woodshed Prophets (MGRX), Ceramic & Glass Painting (POW) Ice Cream for Breakfast Day (USA), Dragon Night (BU) Escuela/Tomahawk’s Bluez Band (RST) Donal O’Shaughnessy (SCPH), Otsiningo Farmer’s Market (MC) Johnny Cash Tribute (TD)
Love Who You Love (BDT), The Fantasticks (CMP) VDay Dinner (TRAD), T. Duggar (MGC), DJ Space One (LDC) Wine & Chocolate Pairing (BBW), Anything Goes (FIVE) The Telephone/Trouble in Tahiti (TCO), Peaches & Crime (ROB) E.C. Bigfoot (BEL), Wat. Mon. (MGRX), Mr. Green (KNOW) Mobday (CCW), Valentine’s Wine Glass Painting (POW) Prix Fixe Valentine’s Dinner (CTR), Snowshoe Hike (BUNP) A Country Mile (PLC), L’Ectric Brew/Under the Rug (RST) Galentine's Day (CAL), SoulMate (SCPH), Suspects (TD)
The Telephone/Tahiti (TCO), American Idiot (EPAC) Beard of Bees (TD), Jack & the Beanstalk Puppet Show (FHS) Book Sale (YHPL), Ralph Mauro (FIVE) Wreckless Marci/Messy Truth (ELK), Mr. Green (KNOW) The Spelunkers (CCW), Dan Duggan & Peggy Lynn (CRAN) Ceramic & Glass Painting (POW) Tom Bronzetti Quartet (SCPH), Snowshoe Hike (BUNP) Tijuana Danger Dogs/Last Call (RST) Persuasion (MGRX), Otsiningo Farmer’s Market (MC)
Jim & Liz Hull (SCPH), DJ Space One (LDC) 2nd Edition with Mary Meier (FIVE) Lollapalooza (TPC) Visiting Mr. Green (KNOW) Ceramic & Glass Painting (POW) Odd Man Out (MGRX), Virgil Cain (TD) Adam Ate the Apple/East Coast Bigfoot (CCW) Dance-a-Tron/Crimson Brethren (BGL) Wreckless Marci (JBC)
The Triple Cities Carousel Events Calendar is featured every month as a courtesy to our advertisers, however we welcome venues to submit their events to triplecitiescarousel@ gmail.com by the 15th of the month prior to publication. Triple Cities Carousel reserves the right to reject any submission. The Events Calendar was compiled and layed out by Ty Whitbeck over a growler of Galaxy Brewing Company's Hop Something and a playlist of Chicha Libre, The Whitefield Brothers and Manu Chao.
Feb. 2016 triple cities carousel 21
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theatre and dance. S
OMETIMES REAL LIFE can be as dramatic and as romantic as theatre. Such is the case with singer Abigail Rethwisch, who plays the part of Lucy in The Telephone. When asked her favorite part of the role, her answer contained a surprise: “The proposal is my favorite part, musically and dramatically. I can relate to it on a very personal level, as I recently got engaged and married. Luckily, I wasn’t proposed to over the telephone, but it was on stage through a song!” Of course, after that lead-in, I had to ask for more details:
Illustration by Ronnie Vuolo.
TCO presents an operatic double feature Tackling The Telephone and Trouble in Tahiti by Ronnie Vuolo
T
HIS MONTH, AS PART of its ongoing Signature Series, Tri-Cities Opera pairs Menotti’s The Telephone and Leonard Bernstein’s Trouble in Tahiti. “This is an evening about relationships,” says conductor Warren Jones. “About a couple of people before they marry and after they marry- sort of prototypical young people beginning life together and then experiencing its joys and difficulties as their lives grow and expand, both individually and bonded together.” Pulitzer Prize winning Italian composer Gian Carlo Menotti wrote The Telephone as a one-act comic opera in 1946. It tells the story of a young man attempting to propose to his girlfriend, but finding himself foiled at every turn as she takes one phone call after another. In our current culture, where people often appear unable to detach from their cell phones, the relevance of the story seems eerily familiar. Abigail Rethwisch, who plays the part of Lucy, agrees: “Substitute text messaging or face booking for a telephone call and it is instantly relevant to our society. This societal problem can be seen in a restaurant, coffee shop, or living room couch today- people looking down at their phones more often than they are engaging with each other.” Patrick Jones, who appears as Ben, echoes that thought, “People have become so dependent on their phones. I got in an elevator the other day, and it was so funny to notice that the five
other people in there with me did not look up from their phones the entire time, even boarding and leaving the elevator.” Trouble in Tahiti, on the other hand, portrays the difficulties found in a marriage of many years, an ironic turn as Bernstein actually wrote it at the time of his own honeymoon in 1951. “Tahiti,” explains director Carleen Graham, “looks at a troubled marriage through a bucolic lens that was so prevalent during that time [the 50s]. A jazz trio (Stacey Geyer, Quinn Bernegger, and Patrick Jones) acts as Greek chorus throughout.” The opera stars Mary Beth Nelson and Jake Stamatis as Dinah and Ben. “My character,” says Nelson, “has been struggling with her marriage for a while, is dramatic and passionate, however she is forced to suppress these traits. One of her biggest struggles as woman, spouse, and mother living in 1950s America is fulfilling her role as a homemaker when she longs for the life she sees on the silver screen.” “Both of them are strong willed people who simply can’t communicate with each other,” Stamatis explains. “Sam wants to leave his mark. He is desperate to live a great life, but has found himself in a mediocre one, so he digs for something new. Something he can win.” Throughout the opera, the jazz trio sings about the American dream, including the addition of songs by Nicolas Slonimsky containing actual advertisements from the period. For Carleen Graham and Warren Jones this
will be their first time working with Tri-Cities. “We are utilizing the Tri-Cities Opera center in an entirely new and different way than ever before,” explains Jones. “The bulk of the production will be out in the center of the room, with the singers literally in the audience throughout the room, and with the orchestra/band on the stage- the opposite of how the room might be set up for “traditional” performances. Therefore, there will be a good deal of new looks and new prospectives for music making and for the drama and comedy to unfold before the public.” Sets for the production were designed by Amara Kopakova. Concludes Warren Jones; “There are moments of comedy, moments of great sadness, and most of all, moments that we all will recognize as those moments from our own lives. This promises to be a wonderful evening of fun as well as thought-provoking drama. It’s a great reason to get out of the house around Valentine’s Day and experience some theatre!” Tri Cities Opera is located at 315 Clinton Street in Binghamton. Show times are Thursday and Friday, February 18th and 19th, at 7:30pm, and Saturday and Sunday, the 20th and 21st, at 3pm. A preview of the show will be presented at 8pm Saturday, February 13th, and includes an overview of the show, along with musical excerpts. Tickets may be purchased at the Tri-Cities Box Office (contact 772-0400 for hours of operation) or online at tricitiesopera.com.
“My husband (Andrew Paulson) is also a singer, and he proposed to me in the middle of his graduate recital. He was performing Fauré’s La Bonne Chanson (a set of 9 songs), and before the 5th song, “J’ai presque peur, en vérité,” he asked me to come down from the audience and stand on stage with him. By the end of the song, he was down on one knee with a ring in hand- and of course, I said yes. It was at Florida State. We met on the first day of our Masters degree and were married a few weeks before we graduated!” Fauré’s song was more than appropriate, as it epitomizes love at its start, with all the drama, passion, hope, and fears that go with it. Love at the point just before a couple embarks on a life together. It is also the jumping off point where Lucy and Ben find themselves in The Telephone. It is a hopeful time, the hope being that their precious love will survive the trials and tribulations of life in the years ahead. Abigail provided a translation: I am almost afraid, in truth, so much do I feel my life entwined with the radiant thought which took my soul from me last summer; so much does your image, for ever dear, live in this heart, entirely given to you, this heart uniquely anxious to love you and to please you; and I tremble- forgive me for telling you this so franklyto think that just one word, one smile from you is henceforth my law, and that just one gesture, one word or one wink, would be enough for you to put my whole being in mourning for its celestial illusion. But rather, I only want to see you, even though the future were to be dark for me and prolific in countless sufferings, through a vast hope. Immersed in this supreme happiness of telling myself again and for ever, despite dismal returns, that I love you, that I love thee!
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theatre briefs
VISITING MR. GREEN AT KNOW THEATRE
An elderly retired dry cleaner wanders into New York City traffic and is almost hit by a car driven by a 29-year-old corporate executive. The young man is given a community service sentence of helping the recent widower once a week for six months. What starts as a comedy about two men who do not want to be in the same room together becomes a gripping and moving drama as they get to know each other, come to care about each other, and open old wounds they’ve been hiding and nursing for years. Translated into 22 languages with over 200 productions in large and small venues, it has won numerous best play and best actor awards around the world. Written by playwright Jeff Baron, NY Newsday called Visiting Mr. Green, “A cannily-crafted melodrama about friendship, family and forgiveness. Baron’s play runs like a well-oiled express.” Featuring Bernie Sheredy and Josh Sedelmeyer. Directed by Tim Gleason. Performances run Feb. 12th28th at the KNOW Theatre, 74 Carroll Street in Binghamton, (607) 724-4341. Friday & Saturday curtains at 8pm, Sunday at 3pm. Cost is $20 for adults, $18 for seniors, and $15 for students. There is a Pay-What-YouCan performance on Thursday, Feb. 18th at 8pm. Visit knowtheatre.org for more info.
LOL AT FHS
This stand-up comedy presentation from the LOL Comedy Club series features finalists from the NYC Ladies of Laughter competition. The show is hosted by comedian and Huffington Post columnist Elaine Williams, whose has appeared on Saturday Night Live, popular soap operas, and numerous TV commercials, along with film credits such as the cult favorite Waiting for Guffman. Williams will introduce fellow comedian Vicky Kuperman, a veteran of countless comedy festivals nationwide and author of the comedic novel The Russian Drop. Also performing is stand-up comic Missy Grynkiewicz, who has a featured role in the upcoming film Days of Power with Eric Roberts and has filmed a pilot for TruTV which was picked up and will be aired this year. Grynkiewicz has said that she “wants to live in a world where nobody is cranky out loud, menopause is a happy thing, pants are optional, laughter is required, and dogs are in charge.” Lol. The show is on Saturday, Feb. 13th at 7pm at the Schorr Family Firehouse Stage, 46-48 Willow Street in Johnson City. Tickets: $15. Call (607) 7722404 or visit goodwilltheatre.net for info.
TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT VISITS THE FORUM
The Broadway Theatre League/Broadway in Binghamton brings this national touring show to town. Called one of the most enduring shows of all time, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is the family musical about the trials and triumphs of Joseph, Israel’s favorite son. The first collaboration of composer Andrew Lloyd Webber (Jesus Christ Superstar, Phantom of the Opera, Cats) and lyricist Tim Rice (Jesus Christ
Superstar, The Lion King), JOSEPH blends pop, country, and rock into an uplifting, technicolored story of biblical proportions. Retelling the biblical story of Joseph, his eleven brothers, and the coat of many colors, this magical musical is full of unforgettable songs including Those Canaan Days, Any Dream Will Do, and Close Every Door. The production is directed and choreographed by Tony Award winner Andy Blankenbuehler. Performances are Feb. 14th at the Broome County Forum Theatre, 236 Washington Street in Binghamton. Curtains are at 3pm & 7:30pm. Tickets can be purchased at the Arena box office and through Ticketmaster. To charge by phone call (800) 745-3000 or order online at ticketmaster.com. For more information call (607) 778-6626 or visit broadwayinbinghamton.com. For group sales call (607) 772-1391.
WRITE TO THE HEART FROM DARKHORSE
The Darkhorse Dramatists bring seven oneact plays about love to the Cider Mill Playhouse. This Binghamton-based conglomerate of actors, writers, and directors brings new plays to the forefront, engaging local audiences with fresh, bold work they can’t see anywhere else. Write to the Heart is a festival consisting of the plays Cindy by Dean Bevan, Waltz by Gregory Dodds, Gel Us by Paige Zubel, Wonderlove by Cat Robinson, Hades Meets Persephone Online by Kelly Easton, All Bucked Up by Teal Yajko, and Perfect Match by James Hutchinson. Some of the plays may contain adult language or themes. Performances are Feb. 19th & 20th at the Cider Mill Playhouse, 2 South Nanticoke Avenue in Endicott. Curtain on both nights is at 7:30pm. Tickets are $15 general admission, $10 for seniors & students. Call (607) 748-7363 or visit cidermillplayhouse. com for more info.
JACK & THE BEANSTALK COMES TO FHS
Beans can and do make wishes come true in Jack and the Beanstalk, the award-winning production of Michael Graham’s Spring Valley Puppet Theater. This visiting company’s shows combine original scripts, appealing characters, hand-crafted puppets, lighting, music and humor, all presented through the art of puppetry. Spring Valley Puppet Theater works are drawn from fairy tales, folktales and fables and feature hand and rod puppets. These large-scale presentations are so carefully choreographed they belie the fact that one person is creating all the magic. The New York Daily News has said, “Illusion has triumphed. And so has Michael Graham, who gives life, at least momentarily, to a most improbable cast of characters.” Jack & the Beanstalk is appropriate for ages 5 and up.This show comes to life on Saturday, Feb. 20th at the Schorr Family Firehouse Stage, 46-48 Willow Street in Johnson City. Curtains are 11am and 2pm. Cost is $10 for adults and $8 for seniors, students, & children. Call (607) 772-2404 for more info or visit goodwilltheatre.net.
Theatre briefs compiled by Felicia Waynesboro: stage@carouselrag.com Feb. 2016 triple cities carousel 25
JUST 15 MINUTES NORTH OF BINGHAMTON
FEB 13TH AND 14TH, NOON-6PM Bring your best friend with you and experience five delectable fruit wines pleasingly paired with luscious Chocolates by Leopold! Your date will be charmed when you escort her to comfortable seating at the bar for your pairing. Tables are available by the fire to enjoy a glass of wine, after your tasting.
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STEAK & CHEESE OMELETTE- served with peppers, onions, homefries & toast. ROOT BEER FLOAT PANCAKE- 1 giant pancake topped w/ vanilla ice cream & homemade root beer syrup. CHILI & CHEESE OMELETTE- w/ homemade chili, melted cheddar, homefries & toast. GRILLED BREAKFAST BURRITO- scrambled eggs, cheese, salsa, hot sauce & choice of meat w/ homefries. BANANAS FOSTER OVER FRENCH TOAST, PANCAKE, OR BELGIUM WAFFLE- homemade caramel sauce infused w/ sliced bananas, topped w/ ice cream & whipped cream. FRENCH TOAST BREAKFAST SANDWICH- two eggs, cheese, & choice of meat on French Toast w/ syrup to dip. HOMEMADE PUMPKIN PANCAKES OR WAFFLEthey literally melt in your mouth! LOADED BREAKFAST PIZZA- eggs, peppers, onions, bacon, sausage & cheese on a crispy tortilla. CHEDDAR GRITS HOMEMADE CORNED BEEF HASH 26 carouselrag.com
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GRILLED MAC & CHEESE SANDWICHw/ tomato, bacon & homemade cheese sauce on grilled sourdough. STROKA GENIUS SANDWICH- grilled ham, melted swiss & apples on grilled marble rye w/ mayo & mustard. CHIPOTLE CHICKEN SANDWICH- w/ melted cheese, bacon & homemade chipotle ranch on a Kaiser roll. HAND CRAFTED STUFFED BURGERS- choose from bacon cheddar, jalapeno pepperjack, mushroom swiss & bacon bleu. CAROLINA BBQ TURKEY MELT- house roasted turkey, bbq sauce, cheese & coleslaw on grilled sourdough. “THAT” FRIED CHICKEN SANDWICH- marinated chicken breast, deep fried & served with cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion & mayo on a grilled Kaiser roll. Also available buffalo bleu style. GRILLED CUBANO- sliced pork loin, ham, dill pickles, swiss & mustard on grilled ciabatta w/ chips & a pickle. FISH TACOS- (3x) beer battered cod, chipotle/jalapeno slaw, salsa, cilantro, chipotle sour cream & chips.
food and drink.
Mmm Royal Indian. Photo Provided.
Vegetarian Valentine’s Day A local dining guide. by Sarah Gager
at good food. That’s what I do. I like food that makes me want to keep eating it: sometimes it’s something surprising, sometimes it comforts me; it’s always delicious. My partner, and I are decent cooks, and so we try to eat at restaurants that make something special. I eat a vegetarian diet. Around Valentine’s Day, among the most compelling reasons to eat a vegetarian diet may be the benefits in the bedroom—do some research! For this piece, I picked restaurants with strong vegetarian selections. Food has the power to bring people together:
table. We had two broths that were so entirely flavorful, with substantial slices of garlic and ginger, one spicy and one not. It would have been complex enough to eat on its own, but you get to add to it. I recommend the napa, bok choy, and tofu, as well as your choice of noodle. You put those into the broth and cook it there at the table. Though it’s less of an issue with vegetable matter, it’s important that you ensure you cook your food properly. Don’t get sick on Valentine’s Day - that’s not romantic. The scallion pancakes are also so satisfyingly savory. The service is one small sticking point. They can be slow, but it almost doesn’t matter after you eat the food. The server we had was willing to coach us through the hot pot on our first go, so don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Red House (200 Main Street, Binghamton) offers an interactive dinner date. Hot pots are a brand new experience for me, and I found it to be a very social meal. This is a tasty time, and can be especially fun for a double date. You start with a broth which is essentially liquid umami, and it sits on a hot plate at your
Royal Indian Bar and Grill (1101 Bunn Hill Road, Vestal) builds up bold flavor. Delicious food has layers, and Indian food is all about that. The bengan bhartha, for example, is a rich and smoky mashed eggplant dish packed with spices. My partner and I get a few different dishes and share, and we always
E
have leftovers which is a happy lunch for the next day. They have a large selection of vegetarian options, and each one is delicious. Really, I have tried them all. The front of house is always happy to see you. A perpetually filled water glass is small but essential part of any good service. It’s comfortable to eat there. Some people feel a little sluggish after a big Indian meal, but taking a nap together after dinner sounds like a really sweet date.
and feel very familiar to most people. My partner and I went to a diner on our first date, and we are deeply in love. To make it a more memorable experience, try the Park Diner (119 Conklin Avenue, Binghamton), which offers a wide view of the Susquehanna River and downtown.
Nhu Y (3701 Vestal Parkway East, Vestal) is fresh. This isn’t a place with a huge selection of vegetarian options. Alas, there are only three dishes, but each one is full of flavor and you can taste the quality of the ingredients. I think this may be a two part operation, and you may need to wait a bit for this meal. The front of house is quirky. He’s sort of funny, and very confident in the food he serves. He should be, because whoever is in the kitchen is sending out solid food. Make a note that this place accepts cash only. Located in Vestal in the Olum’s plaza.
Valentine’s Day is on a Sunday this year (and all of the eateries mentioned in this article will be open), the day of the week best known for leisurely activities. Some couples are capable of chilling out at home doing absolutely nothing together all day, but if you are of this kind I suggest doing one thing: pick up a pie from Pizza Nia’s (65 Rotary Avenue, Binghamton, right next to Abel’s). They have been open now only a short while, but they are quickly establishing a reputation that will keep them open for many years to come. Get toppings if you want, but a plain cheese is enough. It’s a traditional thin-crust pie, with sauce that’s slightly tangy, not all too sweet, and has a strong tomato flavor.
Don’t overthink it! Diners are inexpensive
Whatever you eat, be sure it’s delicious.
Feb. 2016 triple cities carousel 27
7 COURT ST. SUITE 3 BINGHAMTON, NY 13901 (607) 722-0039
OLD UNION
HOTEL est. 1888
ends i r f d n a tle
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citreapizza.com
Artisan Woodfire Pizza & Small Plates FEBRUARY 5TH: First Friday w/ live music by Sabor Latino (6-9pm) FEBRUARY 13TH: Cupid’s Dine & Drag ($2, 12:30-2:30pm) MARCH 4TH: First Friday w/ live music by Brian Hyghland (6-9pm)
Valentine’s Day Prix Fixe Dinner -Reservations begin at 5pm -4 Course romantic dinner for $40 per person, $50 with wine pairing -Call 607-722-0039 to make your reservations!
February 13th & 14th (Sat. & Sun.) Open Daily at 4pm Lunch: Wed-Fri 11:30am til 2pm Open for Brunch Saturday and Sunday at 11am (now accepting American Express)
food briefs
LOST DOG MARDI GRAS
If you’re looking to have a real good time, and maybe even spend it all, then Mardi Gras is your day. You don’t have to be fat or Cajun to appreciate the sound of a washboard being played while you devour a po’ boy! And, as tradition has dictated for the past 20 years, Binghamton’s New Orleans outpost is none other than Lost Dog Café. Doors open at 4pm, and the restaurant will be transformed into a full-blown Mardi Gras celebration, with music from Ragtime Ric Pedro, and the Basin Street Dixieland Jazz Band. The walls will be adorned with masks made by E.L. Downey, and, yes, there will be beads. The menu changes each year, but we know for sure that the food will be of the Cajun persuasion… and Creole, of course. And, as always, there will be the King Cake: find the baby in the cake and you eat for free! All right! Lost Dog Café is located at 222 Water Street in Binghamton. Mardi Gras falls on the 9th of the month. Arrive on time to get in on the action!
CUPID’S DINE & DRAG
Valentine’s Day isn’t for everyone. When the traditional route is taken, it can be a downright miserable experience that puts couples on the spot and illuminates the loneliness of the single. So, we say: conventions be damned! Citrea Restaurant & Bar will be hosting Cupid’s Dine & Drag, and it promises to be a welcome break from doilies and chocolates. Their favorite Kings and Queens will be crooning tunes of love and heartbreak, so there will be something for everyone. I know that when I’m partaking in the delight of dining alone (or on an actual date, if I must), that sublime experience could only be enhanced by a drag queen belting a torch song. So this should be, essentially, a dream come true. Throw in a burrata salad, whatever special pizza they’ve dreamed up that day, and some panna cotta, and the event should be sheer perfection. Citrea is located at 7 Court Street, Suite Three (right on the water!) in Binghamton. The event takes place on Saturday, February 13th, at 12:30pm. There is a $2 cover.
WINE & CHOCOLATE AT BLACK BEAR
Let’s say you’re spoken for, and you happen to enjoy indulging in the sweeter things in life. In fact, you can’t wait to cozy up next to your sweetie after a romantic date – maybe even sit by the fire and listen to some Barry White. Well, slow down, kids; before you get all gross, why don’t you take a trip to Black Bear Winery for their Valentine’s Wine & Chocolate pairing? Black Bear sources their grapes, honey, berries, and cider from good folks with nearby farms in New York State. Guests will enjoy five different fruit wines paired with delicious, local Chocolates by Leopold. There’s even a fireplace – what more do you need? The pairing event takes place on the 13th and 14th of February, from noon until 6pm, making it a perfect pre-dinner date (if you make it to dinner, you dirty dog, you). Tickets are $25 per couple, and reservations are not necessary. Plus, all featured wines will be sold at a 15% discount,
if you happen to find one that sings to your palate. Black Bear Winery is located at 248 County Road 1, in Chenango Forks, NY; they can be reached by phone at (607) 656-9863.
EUGENIA BONE PRESENTS AT RIVERROW BOOKS
Anyone who knows about mushrooms will tell you that they are fascinating, they are everywhere, and that there are a plethora of uses for them -- from the culinary to the medicinal. And one person who knows plenty about mushrooms is Eugenia Bone. You may have never heard of her, but she is certainly worth knowing (especially if you’re a foodie, nature lover, or mushroom enthusiast). This month, you’ll have the chance to meet her, learn from her, and maybe even eat with her! Bone is the author of five books, and has been published in everything from Food and Wine to Mushroom Hunter magazines. A member of the New York Mycological Society, she is an active forager and has plenty of wisdom to impart. On Saturday February 27th, from 3-5pm, there will be a meet-and-greet, and Bone’s books will be available for sale and signing. She’ll also demonstrate marinating both wild and cultivated mushrooms, and will be giving a presentation. There will be a special Mushroom Club event the following day, complete with a Chanterelle marmalade tasting. Riverow Bookshop is located at 187 Front Street in Owego, and can be reached at (607) 687-4094.
OTSININGO WINTER MARKET AT METROCENTER
We all need to eat, but navigating labyrinthine aisles under fluorescent lights, as you try to discern the real from the processed can be exhausting, and even depressing. That’s why we are so blessed to have the Otsiningo Farmers Market. Yes, it’s winter, but the market lives on in the Metrocenter in Downtown Binghamton, on the first and third Saturday each month through April. It’s open from 9am until noon, and parking in their lot is free during the market. There are so many delicious offerings to be had, sold to you straight by the folks who grew the veggies, canned the preserves, roasted the beans – you get the picture. There’s also homemade skincare products, fresh baked bread and cookies, and beautiful artisan jewelry if you’re in the market for a gift. Some of our recent favorite picks are the FoJo Beans’ Chai Chai Again tea, anything baked by Gimmecookie, the abundant spaghetti squash from Shared Roots Farm, and the always creative ferments from Two Poets & a Dog Farmstead. Then there’s Sue Garing’s raw wild flower honey (we enjoy the bamboo variety), and Calton Farms’ Fire Tonic, which you must ingest to understand. There’s also something to be said for the energy at the market; you can enter as grumpy as you like, but you will leave smiling after you’ve mingled with all the wonderful people who grace that on those special Saturdays. We recommend you bring your own tote bag, to make it easier for yourself and the vendors. The Metrocenter is located at 49 Court Street in Binghamton.
Food briefs compiled by Heather Merlis: food@carouselrag.com
THYME & SPACE A featured monthly recipe from the kitchen of Galaxy Brewing Company’s Chef Brian Lovesky
Photo by Ty Whitbeck.
NEW ORLEANS STYLE CHICKEN & SAUSAGE GUMBO (serves 3-4)
- ½ Cup Vegetable Oil - ¾ Cup All Purpose Flour - 6 Tbsp. Creole Seasoning - 2 Med. Yellow Onions, diced - 3 Green Bell Pepper, diced - 2 Red Bell Pepper, diced - 1 Bunch Celery, diced - 1 ½ Cups Andouille Sausage, sliced - 3 Tbsp. Garlic, chopped - 6 Cups Chicken Stock or Broth
- 4 Chicken Thighs or Breasts, seasoned liberally with Creole spice - 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire Sauce - Hot Sauce, to taste - Kosher Salt, to taste - 2 Tbsp. Italian Parsley - ¼ Cup Green Onions, thinly sliced - Long Grain Rice, cooked - Fresh French Bread
1. Toss the chicken thighs with creole spice (approx. 2 tablespoons) and bake in a 400 degree oven until thighs start to brown. 2. While thighs are in the oven; heat the oil in a sauce pot over medium heat and slowly whisk in the flour and begin to make a roux. This step takes a while, keep on a low flame, stir often and be careful not to burn the roux. Stir and cook till the roux is the color of chocolate milk. 3. Add the Andouille, 1 Tbsp. of creole seasoning, and ¾ of the Holy Trinity (pepper, celery, onion). Cook, stirring often, for about ten minutes or until the vegetables soften. 4. Add the chicken stock, the remaining ¼ trinity, remaining seasoning, and garlic. 5. Bring to a simmer, add the baked thighs and let it simmer for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally. 6. About 10-15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, remove the chicken from the bone and add the meat back to the pot. 7. Add the Worcestershire, hot Sauce, and ½ of the green onions. 8. Garnish with green onions, and the parsley. 9. Serve with a scoop of cooked rice and French bread.
Born and raised in Broome County, Chef Brian grew up surrounded by the many flavors of the different ethnic cultures of our area. He is the Executive Chef at Galaxy Brewing Company in Downtown Binghamton (and former Executive Chef at Tranquil Bar & Bistro). A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America with 20 years of restaurant experience in Upstate NY, New Orleans, and Nashville, Chef Brian currently resides in Vestal with his wife, two sons, and a daughter.
Feb. 2016 triple cities carousel 29
If you or a loved one has a drinking or drug problem...
HELP IS AVAILABLE AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) in the Triple Cities Region Hotline: (607) 722-5983 For a list of meetings: aabinghamton.org Al Anon/Alateen in Broome Co. and surrounding areas For info: (607) 772-0889 or (607) 387-5701 For a list of meetings: nynafg.com/district_10.html NA (Narcotics Anonymous) in the Triple Cities Region For info: (607) 762-9116 For a list of meetings: tcana.net
All-Level Fusion Bellydance Classes w/ Astara Beginners Welcome! Wednesdays 7-8pm, $10/class Broome County Dance Center, Binghamton, NY Mandala Bellydance & Flow Arts www.facebook.com/mandalaflow mandalaflowarts@gmail.com 607-759-7551 30 carouselrag.com
film. Story, We Can’t Live Without Cosmos, Prologue. Documentary: Body Team 12, A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness, Last Day of Freedom, Chau, Beyond the Lines, Claude Landzmann: Spectres of the Shoah. Opens February 5. National Theatre Live: Jane Eyre – Broadcast live from Britain’s National Theatre will be the stage adaptation of Charlotte Brontë’s revolutionary novel, which told the story of its heroine’s growth into herself as a moral and sensible woman in her own terms while existing as a woman in society. Jane Eyre took the genre of fiction into a new realm, and while its literary merits can’t translate directly into theatre, the play has received a largely positive response from both critics and lovers of the book. Admission for National Theatre Live showings is $20 or $15 for students and members. Opens February 11. The Art Mission & Theater is an art cinema and located at 61 Prospect Ave. in Binghamton. More info at artmission.org.
MOVIE NIGHT AT JC’S YOUR HOME PUBLIC LIBRARY
I’ll See You in My Dreams (PG-13) – Blythe Danner stars in a rare leading role as Carol, a retired teacher and ex-singer who, after putting down her dog, faces the loneliness she’s recently been repressing. In her search to find new meaning in her life, she endures an embarrassing bout of speed dating, reconnects with a lost identity at a karaoke bar, and spends time with the laid-back Bill, played by Sam Elliott, who has chosen hedonism over retiree anxiety. While it looks to be another awkward, plot-thin indie Sundance movie, it avoids sentimentality and actually consists of genuine moments along a well-structured story. Admission is free. February 16th at 6pm. Rachel McAdams and Mark Ruffalo in ‘Spotlight.’ Provided.
ONSCREEN AT THE MISSION
Spotlight (R) – “Spotlight” is the name of the team of Boston Globe journalists that in the year 2000 began a deep investigation into a story about priest John Geoghan, who was repeatedly sexually abusing children while the Archbishop of Boston chose to ignore it. This film is based on the Spotlight team’s investigation, during which they discovered that there were far more perpetrators than they initially realized – an ex-priest who worked to rehabilitate pedophile priests estimated that ninety priests in Boston were guilty of abuse. The article, published in 2002, exposed the Archbishop and led to a surge of victims coming forward to tell their stories. The impressive cast is made up of talents such as Mark Ruffalo, Michael Keaton, Richael McAdams and John Slattery. Admission ranges from $7 to $10. Opens January 29.
comedy-drama has received few poor words since its first release in December 2015. Adapted from the 1999 play by Alan Bennett, it tells the true story of Bennett’s relationship with the eccentric Mary Shepherd, who parks her van in his driveway and stays there for 15 years. During this time they develops a relationship with an obvious benefit to Shepherd, while the benefit to Bennett is enigmatic even to Bennett himself. Bennett is played by Alex Jennings and Shepherd by Maggie Smith, who has so far earned enthusiastically positive reviews for her performance. Throughout the film, her character reveals more and more pieces of her identity which make her life of working contentedly in her van, offering little kindness and asking not even for a toilet to relieve herself in, seem even more surprising. Admission ranges from $7 to $10. Opens February 19.
Lady in The Van (PG-13) – This British
Son of Saul (R) – The winner of the Golden
Film briefs compiled by Ilana Lipowicz: film@carouselrag.com
Globe for Best Foreign Language Film, created by Hungarian director László Nemes, shows the experience of a prisoner in a concentration camp as close up as ever. A handheld camera follows one man through Auschwitz, never straying away from him but opening space for action in the peripheries. “In the camps, you do not have the luxury to see. You have to keep a low profile. I wanted this to be the structuring force. The main character is not looking and we are not looking as well,” Nemes explained in an interview with the New York Times. Avoiding the coded language of symbols commonplace in Holocaust films, Nemes hoped to depict the collision of structure and chaos which defined life in the concentration camp. Admission ranges from $7 to $10. Opens February 26. Oscar Nominated Short Films – The 2016 Oscar nominated short films will be grouped and shown based on category. Here is the list of films according to genre: Live Action: Ave Maria, Shok, Everything Will Be OK, Stutterer, Day One. Animated: Sanjay’s Super Team, World of Tomorrow, Bear
Your Home Public Library, located at 107 Main St. in Johnson City, hosts regular movie nights through the year. More info at yhpl. org.
ONE MORE ACT AT THE BUNDY MUSEUM
In collaboration with Tri-Cities Opera, the Bundy’s pre-show film series ‘One More Act’ will be showing two suburban themed episodes of its favorite series The Twilight Zone in order to prepare you for the Tri-Cities productions of Gian Garlo Menotti’s The Telephone and Leonard Bernstein’s Trouble in Tahiti, both which base their humor around suburban life. The episodes are “Walking Distance” about a man who seeks to revisit his light rosy suburban childhood, and “Monsters are Due on Maple Street” about a suburban community that turns in on itself after all of the power goes out. There will be a ticket giveaway for the Tri-Cities Opera performances previewed there. The screenings will take place at the Annex Theatre of the Bundy. Admission is free. February 16 at 7pm, doors open at 6:30. The Bundy Museum is located at 127-129 Main St. in Binghamton. More info at bundymuseum.org.
Feb. 2016 triple cities carousel 31
TIME TO DO SOME DANCING WITH RANSOM... 2/5 Hummels Jug and Pasty White & Doublewide 2/6 Escuela and Tomahawk’s Bluez & Boogie Band 2/11 Matt Burt & the Casual Aquaintances 2/12 Gravelding Bros. Band and Lone Ryderz 2/13 L’Ectric Brew with Under the Rug and Doug & Eamonn Hubert
2/18 Triple Down 2/19 R.U.S.T. 2/20 Tijuana Danger Dogs and Last Call 2/26 Liz Frame & the Kickers and Travis Rocco Duo 2/27 Skribe
RANSOM STEELE TAVERN APALACHIN NY
552 MAIN STREET
for info on shows, food, and more, check out ransomsteeletavern.com
32 carouselrag.com
fun stuff. “RHYME TIME”
by Paul O’Heron
***Across answers are composed of the indicated number of rhyming words.***
ACROSS
1. Approve of Bobby Fischer’s game supposition. (3 words) 9. Located recorded barking noise. (3 words) 10. Decay ruined the auction grouping of baby beds. (5 words) 15. Order to touch up faded religious work of art. (3 words) 19. Fire up the EKG! (3 words) 24. Allow animal doctor to prepare patient. (5 words) 28. Not much boxing later this evening. (3 words) 33. Properly files army location’s civil legal liabilities. (3 words
DOWN
B.C.
DOGS OF C-KENNEL
WIZARD OF ID
by MASTROIANNI & HART
1. Way more in score. 2. Blast fast. 3. Mass of grass. 4. Channel label on cable. 5. Our star. 6. Makes car go far. 7. Even-steven. 8. “I ruled Egypt”, he quipped. 11. Tag off the bag. 12. British cup to sup. 13. Shade the sun made. 14. Agrees to these. 15. Male mates from rural states. 16. Payday put away for a later day. 17. Lupino of the screen, Oh! 18. Boy, still, Egyptian royal. 20. Mistle end or one of ten. 21. Pickin’s best from a chicken’s nest. 22. Lying louse or rodent bigger than a mouse. 23. Tool for shooting pool. 24. Quiets between riots. 25. Player from LSU, PGA player Woods too. 26. Beet’s sweet. 27. Lifts or public radio gifts. 29. The NFL anoints these six points. 30. First day stock block. 31. Roasty toasty. 32. Lunatic or squirrel’s pick.
by MICK & MASON MASTROIANNI
by JONNY HART & BRANT PARKER
Feb. 2016 triple cities carousel 33
1330 AM 101.3 FM 105.1 FM 107.9 FM
34 carouselrag.com
How to not make friends Illustration by Ronnie Vuolo.
by Krissy Howard
F
OR ANYONE FINDING themselves in a new place (literally, not in a figurative “phase of life” type of way), the process of making friends can be challenging, and when you’re an adult person who tends to make or not make decisions based on a constant fear of rejection, putting yourself out there can be especially tough. Actually, making friends for any adult is especially tough, as we are no longer afforded the luxury of having our parents release us into a room full of similarly-aged people and just be like, “Okay, here are your new best friends! One of them will get their period especially early which will send you into an existential tailspin at age 10, and another one will show you how hard pot can make you laugh. Enjoy!” I recently moved from one city to another, and I do not like the new place I call home. At all. Being the social creature that I am, however, I do still crave human relationships, leaving me with no other choice but to “make friends.” Making friends as an adult is also difficult because the first several hangouts feel a lot like a first date, except your date is not at all interested in having sex with you, leaving you with only your wit and charisma to rely on. When the best you can come up with tends to sound something like, “wow it really sucks here; I can’t believe anyone
would ever live here,” you kind of learn to take “we should get coffee sometime” to mean “I will now work to avoid you for the rest of my life.” It’s great!
I have no idea how to make friends, but I have learned a lot in the area of not making them. So feel free to just not do any of this stuff, should you find yourself in a position to seek companions in the future. Constantly reminding everyone that you’re not from here. I find myself wanting to inform everyone that I’m not from here, and continue doing so long after having realized that no one cares. I think I wear it as a sort of cloak of protection, shielding my sensitive lil self from the possibility of being rejected, or to at least spare myself from the awkwardness that comes with not knowing who everyone is gossiping about. NOT FAIR! I want to be friends so I can talk about you behind your back, too! As ugly as this sounds, there’s just some part of me that doesn’t want to be mistaken for “one of them,” even though “they” seem to live pretty content and fulfilling lives, which I suppose is a thing that can happen when you’re not always looking for a way to exclude yourself from being a part of something. I wouldn’t know, though - I’M NOT FROM HERE. Constantly reminding everyone how much better the food is, everywhere else. Nothing is more obnoxious than a person who constantly compares a decent thing to a better version of that same thing. Every-
one thinks the pizza is better somewhere else - not really treading any uncharted waters with that one, you young, bad-boy, you! On a positive note, the lameness of the food offerings has encouraged me to start cooking, so I’ve become pret-ty good at pouring syrup on frozen waffles if I do say so myself. The secret is to toast the waffles. You can probably find the recipe on Pinterest.
Being honest when people ask you questions like “how are you?” Unless this person is your therapist, Uber driver, or some other such individual who is being paid to care how you happen to be feeling at that exact moment, no one actually asks how you are to hear how you are. The same thing goes for people asking how you’re adjusting to your new town. They don’t actually care. They’re just waiting for you to say “fine” so they can go on talking about themselves without feeling like a totally self-indulgent dick. They don’t care that you miss your friends, or what about this place is different from the last place; they just want to be done with work and get home before all the parking spots on their street are gone. If you feel compelled to answer the question, “How are you liking it here?” with, “Well, honestlyyyy…” JUST DON’T. Don’t answer. Honesty makes people uncomfortable, and ultimately responsible for their actions, so just shove a bunch of pretzels in your mouth and point to your chewing hole like, “Oh, of course you would ask me that now, how silly!” and let them change the subject to a topic more interesting.
Talking shit about the people who live in your new town to the people who live in your new town. Similar to the last point, shit-talking is an art meant to be handled with the codependent grace of someone who hates everything, but still wants everyone to like her, at whatever cost. Having your old friends to reach out to in times of crankiness will get whatever stale, hostile energy is burning up inside of you. It’s kind of like how you mutilate effigies of everyone on Facebook so you don’t actually mutilate everyone on Facebook in real life. Right? Honesty about how much you hate the new city you live in is reserved for your friends from the city you used to live in, and is especially easy if that city is notorious for being abrasive and cantankerous. These friends live to talk about other less-cool cities, especially if they’re in the same state. Do your old friends a favor and call them to vent, and just know you did your good deed for the day as you hear them laugh and laugh in delighted, judgmental amusement. Refusing to leave the house. This is probably pretty common sense but ughhh, this is so easy to do, and my new workfrom-home uniform of oversized flannel pants makes taking 10,000 photos of my dog sleeping really, really easy. Plus I don’t know where anything is, which sends my control-freak grip into overdrive... I suppose the only way to learn is to get out there and figure it out, but she just shifted into this new position to sleep in and I’m just not really at a good “stopping point.”
Feb. 2016 triple cities carousel 35
Nothing Says “I Love You” You can’t spell “Carousel” without “arouse.”
Happy Valentine’s Day from Triple Cities Carousel!
Vestal... nah, too easy.
Happy Valentine’s Day from Triple Cities Carousel!
Tonight sure is gonna “Endwell.”
Happy Valentine’s Day from Triple Cities Carousel! 36 carouselrag.com
You’ve found your way round-a-bout my heart.
Happy Valentine’s Day from Triple Cities Carousel!
They don’t call it “Johnson” City for nothing!
Happy Valentine’s Day from Triple Cities Carousel!
You put the “ohhhh” in Owego.
Happy Valentine’s Day from Triple Cities Carousel!
Like Newsprint Valentines You make me purr like a bearcat.
Happy Valentine’s Day from Triple Cities Carousel!
The only thing sloppier than my kisses is State Street.
Happy Valentine’s Day from Triple Cities Carousel!
I love you almost as much as a chicken spiedie.
Happy Valentine’s Day from Triple Cities Carousel!
Confluence Park: Come together.
Happy Valentine’s Day from Triple Cities Carousel!
You give me Kirk-”wood.”
Happy Valentine’s Day from Triple Cities Carousel!
Candor: Tell your family you love them.
Happy Valentine’s Day from Triple Cities Carousel! Feb. 2016 triple cities carousel 37
star stuff.
HOROSCOPES by Emily Jablon
F
ebruary starts with a jolt when Mercury squares Uranus on the first. Expect the unexpected when you receive some news or gossip that throws a wrench. This is a lesson in flexibility, so surrender and go with the flow. Save your crazy for the first weekend in February when shit really hits the fan, when Venus conjuncts Pluto and squares Uranus. In your love relationships, the invisible is going to become visible. So if you have nothing to hide, expect a weekend of intense desires and passionate compulsions. If it is in poor standing, expect to spend the weekend cyber stalking or drowning in heavy emotions. Don’t become emotionally obsessed. If you meet someone new, watch out. On the 7th, Mars is squaring the sun, so people may want to fight. Avoid communication and go to the gym instead. This is a good weekend to put the phone down. Venus enters Aquarius on the 16th, so spend Valentine’s Day doing something you both have never done before. Or if you are single, go out by yourself and do something new. Go to a place where you would want to meet someone (not a bar), like yoga, cross-fit, art class or Kopernik, because Aquarians are a little like aliens. The point is with all this Aquarius energy, you want to make yourself as unique and interesting as can be. Aquarius is all about being the most intellectual, quirky, and non-emotional one can be. Detach. So if you are in a relationship, pretend you just met this Valentine’s Day. On the 23rd, Jupiter opposing Chiron will bring PMS-like emotions to men and women alike. Be prepared and plan a time to let loose and be a little excessive. This is a great time for healing, drinking, shopping sprees, benders and gluttony. Buy a lottery card if you’re being emotional.
CAROUSEL triple cities
free
march 2015
vol. 3 issue 2
living local. loving life.
Aries (Mar 21- Apr 19) Aries need to turn the stove to low this month in all aspects of their lives. Don’t force anything, and surprise everyone with your new turned-down tone. Taurus (Apr 20- May 20) You may find yourself out of your comfort zone emotionally this month. All bulls should get a month gym membership. Or have a lot of sex. Gemini (May 21-June 21) This is a good month not only to catch up, but to get ahead. Do whatever it takes to utilize this energy to the fullest. It’s a good month to land, butterfly. Cancer (June 22-July 22) It would be good to create a reset button for yourself this month and practice it throughout the month. And probably for the rest of your life. Leo (July 23-Aug 22) Spend the month ditching your old friends and only making and hanging out with new people with new hobbies. You can go back to your old friends in March. Virgo (Aug 23-Sept 22) Something from the past may come up and stir the pot and maybe even tip it over. And remember Virgo, “I can only control the things I can control.” Libra (Sept 23-Oct 22) Go to the salon, be vain, be indecisive and enjoy a month positive astrological aspects. Scorpio (Oct 23-Nov 21) You are ripping and roaring this month, scorpions, and nothing is going to stop you. You are full steam ahead. Everyone else beware. Sagittarius (Nov 23-Dec 21) Go out of your way to be creative this month. Take this mandatory time and feed your soul. Make a “No Talking” rule if need be. Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 19) With Venus in your sign the first half of the month, take the extra time and care to flirt, smile, and poke. You can go back to ice cold for the last half. It will really throw them off. Aquarius (Jan 29-Feb 18) This is a month of going from dial-up to cable for you Aquarian. Not only are you vibrating at a different frequency, but everyone else is stealing your wi-fi. Enjoy it. Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20) You will feel a surge of extra oomph this month. Take the time to think things through before you jump to conclusions or decisions. Emily Jablon, “Binghamton’s Astrologer to the Stars,” is a certified astrologer and public mosaic artist. Jablon has been studying astrology since college and specializes in relationship and personal astrology. She offers classes, private and group readings, and parties for a donation. Go to jablonstudios.com for more information or email emily@jablonstudios.com.
38 carouselrag.com
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BROOME COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL Where the arts mean business! 81 State St. #501, Binghamton, NY (607) 723-4620 broomearts.org
ROSS PARK Round and round we go! 60 Morgan Rd. Binghamton, NY (607) 772-7017 binghamton-ny.gov/carousels
CHROMA CAFÉ & BAKERY Artisan breads & pastries. breakfast/lunch. 97 Court St. Binghamton, NY (607) 595-7612 chromacafeandbakery.com
TIOGA ARTS COUNCIL Inspiring & supporting Tioga County 179 Front St. Owego, NY 13827 (607) 687-0785 tiogaartscouncil.org
RECREATION PARK Round and round we go! 58-78 Beethoven Street, Binghamton, NY (607) 772-7017 binghamton-ny.gov/carousels
CITREA RESTAURANT & BAR Woodfire Pizza & Tapas 7 Court St. Suite 3, Binghamton, NY (607) 722-0039 citreapizza.com
C. FRED JOHNSON PARK Round and round we go! 98 CFJ Blvd. Johnson City, NY (607) 772-7017 villageofjc.com
GROTTA AZZURA Late Night Pizza Delivery Fri.-Sat. 52 Main St. Binghamton, NY 13905 (607) 722-2003 grottaazzurraitalianrestaurant.com
HIGHLAND PARK Round and round we go! 801 Hooper Rd. Endwell, NY (607) 786-2970 townofunion.com
LOST DOG CAFÉ Global fare, specialty cocktails, music 222 Water St. Binghamton, NY (607) 771-6063 lostdogcafe.net
GEORGE W. JOHNSON PARK Round and round we go! 201 Oak Hill Ave. Endicott, NY (607) 757-0856 endicottny.com
MI CASA Authentic Latin Cuisine 58 Henry St. Binghamton, NY (607) 237-0227 Find us on Facebook!
art studios THE SPIRAL IMAGE STUDIO Affordable contemp. art for any space. 2328 Colesville Rd, Harpursville NY alla.boldina.art@gmail.com www.allaboldina.com KAPOW! ART STUDIO Unique Quality Art Classes for All Ages 186 State St. 2nd Fl, Binghamton, NY (607) 237-8246 kapowartnow.com
bars BELMAR PUB West Side World Famous 95 Main St. Binghamton, NY (607) 724-5920 belmar-bing.com CALLAHAN’S SPORTSMAN’S CLUB Drinks, food, and good tunes! 190 Main St. Binghamton, NY (607) 772-6313 Find us on Facebook! MCGIRK’S IRISH PUB Music 5 nights/wk. Curated whiskey bar. 1 Kattelville Rd. Binghamton, NY (607) 648-9988 mcgirks.com OLD UNION HOTEL “King of Wings” 3 Years in a Row! 246 Clinton St. Binghamton, NY (607) 217-5935 oldunionhotel.com
breweries GALAXY BREWING CO. Craft beers & great food in downtown Bing 41 Court St. Binghamton, NY (607) 217-7074 galaxybrewingco.com
WEST ENDICOTT PARK Round and round we go! Maple St. at Page Avenue, Endicott, NY (607) 786-2970 townofunion.com
dance instruction MANDALA BELLYDANCE & FLOW ARTS Classes – Fusion Bellydance – Fire & LED (607) 759-7551 www.facebook.com/mandalaflow mandalaflowarts@gmail.com PURELY TECHNIQUE DANCE INSTRUCTION Individualized classes/lessons 32-36 Washington Ave. Endicott, NY (607) 245-6366 Purelytechniquedance@gmail.com TANGO MY HEART Argentine Style Classes/Practice: Mon. 7pm Atomic Tom’s, 196 State St. Binghamton, NY (607) 217-8731 tangomyheart.com
museums BUNDY MUSEUM Explore local Binghamton history! 127-129 Main St. Binghamton, NY (607) 772-9179 bundymuseum.org
MAGIC CITY MUSIC HALL Back in action, bigger & better than before! 1040 Upper Front St. Binghamton, NY (607) 296-3269 themagiccitymusichall.com RANSOM STEELE TAVERN Do some dancin’ with Ransom 552 Main St. Apalachin, NY (607) 258-0165 ransomsteeletavern.com
specialty GARLAND GALLERY Custom framing, cool gifts, zany cards 116 Washington St. Binghamton, NY (607) 723-5172 garlandgallery.com
video production STEPHEN SCHWEITZER Video production and editing (607) 222-9281 vimeo.com/stephenschweitzer stephen.schweitzer@gmail.com
wineries BLACK BEAR WINERY NYS fruit wine. Stop by our tasting room! 248 County Rd. 1, Chenango Forks, NY (607) 656-9868 blackbearwinery.com
ROBERSON MUSEUM Exhibits, Events, The Mansion, & More 30 Front Street, Binghamton, NY (607) 772-0660 www.roberson.org
music instruction BANJO AND FIDDLE LESSONS with Brian Vollmenr (301)385-4027 banjoandfiddle.com brian@banjoandfiddle.com
music venues CYBER CAFÉ WEST Binghamton’s home for live music. 176 Main St. Binghamton, NY (607) 723-2456 cybercafewest.com
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