CAROUSEL triple cities
may 2017
free
issue 48
your local arts and culture rag.
2 carouselrag.com
inside. music...5 theatre...17 business...23 events calendar...24 art...26 food and drink...37 poetry...40
books...41 film...42 travel...43 start stuff...44 fun stuff...45 directory listings...46
Maybe I’d rather attend the scavenger hunt in Beijing that day, or adventure with the Secret Joburg Rooftop Tour in Johannesburg, South Africa. Maybe. -Page 43
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, Charles Berman, Zoe Davis-Chanin, John Donson, Ilana Lipowicz, Emily Mancini, Maria “Murph” Murphy, Felicia Waynesboro, Phil Westcott CONTRIBUTORS Chris Arp, Natassia Enright, Maryam Haque, Carson McKenna
ON THE COVER: “Salomone Meets a Naked Lady” (1990) by Milton Glaser LAYOUT/DESIGN Christopher Bodnarczuk PHOTOGRAPHY Stephen Schweitzer ADVERTISING SALES Christopher Bodnarczuk DISTRIBUTION: Joseph Alston FOR ADVERTISING: advertising@carouselrag.com FOR CONTENT SUBMISSIONS: hmerlis@carouselrag.com (by 15th of prior month) FOR CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS: Add events online at carouselrag.com 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 © 2017 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.
April 2017 triple cities carousel 3
WEST SIDE FEST SIDE 8-27-17 IS THE
THE 3 ANNUAL BINGHAMTON PORCHFEST RD
SIGN UP TO HOST OR PERFORM STARTING JUNE 1ST AT BINGHAMTONPORCHFEST.COM S P O N S O R S , VO LU N T E E R S , M OV E R S / S H A K E R S ... W E N E E D Y O U ! E M A I L B I N G H A M TO N P O R C H F E ST @ G M A I L . C O M O R C A L L C H R I S @ 845-6 49-2912
4 carouselrag.com
music. some are actual blood relatives, the band acts like one happy family. The Next to Kin members are all natives to either Broome or Tioga County and they each have additional roles, outside of the band, within their communities. Tewksbury is the General Manager of Binghamton’s Cyber Café West, as well as a part-time student of healthcare management. Evans is a part-time Fundraising Manager at the Tri-State Chapter of the Scleroderma Foundation in Binghamton, and a fulltime mom. Cirbus is a music teacher in the Owego-Appalachian School District, bassist for local bluegrass band Bug Tussle, and father of one, soon-to-be two. Lastly, Thomas is a well-recognized local face, known for his involvement in many local bands, including The Falconers, Zydeco Po’ Boys, Dutch Bucket System, and Second Class Citizens. Although Thomas could not be present at the interview, his bandmates were singing his praises. “He brought what we were doing as a threesome to the next level - he totally gave us a different sound,” says Tewksbury.
Next to Kin
Next to Kin. Photo by Michelle Morningstar.
Local favorites release first studio album by Maria “Murph” Murphy
L
OCAL BAND NEXT TO KIN is releasing their first studio-recorded album this May at Ransom Steele Tavern. The new album is titled Kindergarten and consists completely of original songs written by the band. Besides the subtle play on words, the title is representative of beginnings, and of the band starting a new journey. “It has significance, where this is our first studio album,” Mary Tewksbury, lead guitarist and vocal performer, reveals. “It’s not by any means perfect [but in the end] we, actually, thoroughly enjoy playing music with each other.” Not only are the songs on this album Next to Kin originals, they are also generational. Many of the band members attribute much of their song inspirations to family, and that is particularly significant in this album. Mallory Evans (lead singer, rhythm guitar, and auxiliary percussion) and Ryan Cirbus (upright bass and piano) are both bandmates and siblings. Evans and Cirbus’ mother, Mel (nicknamed “Girl” by the band) is featured on the album singing harmonies. In addition, the siblings’ late grandmother can not only be heard in one of the songs, but is also from whom it was inspired. Cirbus and Evans randomly picked a line from one of their grandmother’s poems and made it the first lyric of their song “Crary Mills,” which is also the name of their grandmother’s hometown. The song ends with a spoken line taken from
a song written, performed, and self-recorded by the siblings’ grandmother years ago. This was truly a whole new level of collaborative effort. “It was the first song we wrote together,” Tewksbury explains. Although this album release is a new endeavor for the band, it is far from their beginnings. The band members had experiences playing together in one combination or another as far back as eight years ago. Yet, it was not until 2013 that the seeds of Next to Kin were planted. Cirbus and Tewksbury were both playing in the Cyber Café West house band, then known as InnerMission, and Cirbus - as his “kin” - invited Evans onstage. From then on, Evans and Tewksbury began playing together regularly, while InnerMission continued. Eventually, the threesome came together and established Next to Kin. “On a warm November day in 2014,” Cirbus begins. “That’s when we put a name to it,” chimes in Evans. The name Next to Kin began as a joke by Tewksbury based on the simple fact that, when playing together, she was literally standing next to kin (Cirbus and Evans). Joke or not, the name was fitting, and so it stayed. Just less than a year later, the band was complete when Andy Thomas (drums) joined in September of 2015. Thomas was subbing in as the drummer for East Coast Bigfoot at a shared gig with Next to Kin at Ransom Steele
Tavern the month prior. Next to Kin invited Thomas to play with them during their set, and the threesome became a foursome. “We told him not to tear down his drums and he didn’t. We’re glad he didn’t,” shares Cirbus. Once established, Next to Kin began to find their group sound. Even though the individual members originally wrote many of their songs solo - some even before the band was established - the band has since influenced each other’s’ writing. Each member feels that, old or newly written, there is a piece of everyone in all the songs they perform. With that, there is also a piece of each band member’s history and inspiration within their songs. Many of the songs they write are based on loved ones and their own life experiences manifested as music and lyrics. In addition, the group is also influenced by bands that have inspired them in the past, what they call, “elder influences.” A few favorites specifically mentioned were Phish and Barenaked Ladies. All these factors combined have helped Next to Kin create unique songs that fit into their own folk-fusion sound. “What’s neat about the album is that it’s not just honed-in on one sound; it kind of touches on a lot of different things,” Cirbus explains. There is an obvious kinship shared among the band members that is apparent both onstage and in their candid interactions with one another. Although only two of the four-
The members of Next to Kin have come a long way over a short few years, but they have certainly put in the work. Along with writing, fine-tuning, and recording their songs, they have also spent the last year funding their recording project and performing live shows, while keeping their day jobs. Funds were raised through sale on their EP album, which was a live recording of a performance at Ransom Steele, as well as much-appreciated donations through their Kickstarter that exceeded expectations. The band is overwhelmed with gratitude for all who supported them, including family, friends, fans, and donors. They are especially grateful for the work of Jeff Stachyra of NewClear Studio, who produced, recorded, and mastered their album. “It was a humbling experience,” Evans shares. “It was really good for us as a band.” Meeting with the band is an experience filled with laughter shared and stories told. It’s clear that Next to Kin is a group of local community members that not only share a love for music, but a love for each other and for this area. They put their time and talents, both on and off stage, back into the community. Their passions, influences, and histories are present in their music, just as their humor and kinship is felt in their stage presence and repartee. It is a genuine and contagious energy that makes for a fantastic live show, and this month you can take a piece of that energy home with you in their album, Kindergarten. The album release party takes place May 5th at Ransom Steele Tavern. Devinne Meyers opens the show at 8pm, followed by Next to Kin at 9pm. Cover charge is $5, $7 with drink chip. In addition to the release party, Next to Kin has a number of local gigs lined up for the month of May: They can be seen at Chips Bar in Windsor on May 6th, Bill’s Restaurant in Owego on May 12th, and Thirsty’s Tavern in Binghamton on May 20th. They will also be returning to Ransom Steele on May 19th, with Cirbus’s fifth-grade rock band as their opener. Plus, keep your eyes peeled for information on their Binghamton CD release at Cyber Café West on July 14th at 9pm. For more information about the event or the band, visit nexttokinmusic.com or facebook. com/next2kin.
April 2017 triple cities carousel 5
Philharmonic strikes back! “May the Fourth” concert celebrates Star Wars by Phil Westcott
M
AY THE FOURTH BE with you! On Thursday, May 4th, the Binghamton Philharmonic will host a Star Wars-themed concert, playing hits from the record-breaking franchise. If you haven’t seen a Star Wars movie, you’re wrong for a lot of reasons, but one of the biggest is John Williams’ beautiful scores. The score of Star Wars masterpiece unto itself, reminiscent of such composers as Wagner, Mahler, and Bruckner its depth and scope. (Don’t worry my music professors, I won’t go so far as to say Daniel Hege. as it is as brilliant; but it’s maybe the distance from the Death Star to Alderan away.) Williams brings you into a galaxy far, far away, without whispering a word. He introduces you to the Darth Vader’s commanding terror without showing his fearsome countenance, and has you celebrating with the rebels without giving you blue milk. May the Fourth also marks principal guest conductor Daniel Hege’s last “official” concert with the Binghamton Philharmonic. Hege will be conducting the Independence Day concert, but May the Fourth marks the end of the official Philharmonic season. Over the course of the last year, Hege upheld the Philharmonic’s tradition of excellence, and helped oversee the combination of pops and classical music. “It’s a great program to go out on,” Hege says. “On the one hand, if you had to classify the program, it would be more the pops side than the classical side. On the other, it’s a great hybrid. It’s so orchestral, and the music is challenging to play. It’s a great way to close.” The concert will feature musical selections from all seven main films of the Star Wars saga (although, to be honest, can we all just pretend the prequels don’t exist? Please? Let’s just pretend they were tone poems, and never movies). Hege is a huge fan of Williams’ music. “When I heard the Star Wars music for the first time, it was before I saw [the original release] of the movies, I was in the sixth grade. I got a cassette recorder, and my parents got me the soundtrack to the first Star Wars movie, and I was just blown away. Completely blown away by the orchestra sound, just taken with it. I was into the music, and then the movies.” Hege has not seen the prequels (way to keep Star Wars pure, Maestro), but is intimately
6 carouselrag.com
familiar with the music, playing it many times over the course of his career. He remarks: “The music is so colorful and rich. If you listen to ‘Across the Stars’ for example, you can see something greater than you would see on the screen; you can imagine something greater, because the music is so rich.” And that’s the beauty of seeing Star Wars music performed live: instead of seeing the galaxy before you, you are invited to imagine the limits of the galaxy in your mind. Hege’s favorite themes from Star Wars are the “Main Theme” and “Princess Leia’s Theme.” The concert will start with the “Main Theme” and end with the “End Title/Throne Room” from Episode IV, and will include music from across the main saga, including “Battle of the Heroes” from Episode III, as well as “Rey’s Theme” from Episode VII. May the Fourth promises to be an immersive experience. Fans are encouraged to attend in their best Star Wars regalia, whether you identify with the beauty of Princess/General Leia, or the confused arrogance of Kylo Ren. The show will also be scripted by local playwright/composer Santino DeAngelo, will feature performers dressed in character. So, don’t fall prey to The Phantom Menace of missing this concert, or be part of The Attack of the Clones and wear that same old Luke Skywalker costume you did last year. Be a part of the Revenge of the Sith and be A New Hope in costume; we need to have a General Grievious! Let The Empire Strike Back and dash The Return of the Jedi, because during May the Fourth, The Force Awakens. The writer is very proud of stringing all those titles together. May the Fourth will take place on, of course, May 4th, at 7:30pm at the Binghamton Forum, 236 Washington St. in downtown Binghamton. Tickets range from $20-45 dollars, and are available at binghamtonphilharmonic.org. Also note, that there is no intermission. The program will last just about an hour, so parents, please feel free to bring your children knowing that they will be home in time for bed, and denizens of the Republic, know you’ll have time to meet and discuss what the heck is going on with Kylo Ren’s scar afterwards. Stay pure Maestro (don’t see the prequels), and on behalf of Triple Cities Carousel and our community, thank you for all you’ve done, and best wishes to you as you take the next step in your career. May the Force be with you.
VESTAL MUSEUM 5/13
Taze Yanick
6/10 Adam Ash & Heather Merlis
7/8 Bess Greenberg
Join us for a free coffee-house music series every 2nd Saturday from 8 to 10pm! Coffee, tea, scones and other baked goods available. $10 at the door (tips encouraged for the musicians!)
Vestal Parkway East, Vestal, NY
(next to the Vestal Public Library)
BU Spring Fling
Rappers, funk, and fried food to celebrate semester’s end by Emily Mancini
O
N THE FIRST SATURDAY of May, the Binghamton University campus becomes a carnival, complete with bouncy castles, fried Oreos, and perhaps the most highly anticipated concert event of the year. Spring Fling is an annual BU tradition that brings big acts to campus for a free concert event open to both students and the general public. This year’s concert is headlined by rap artists Mac Miller and Ty Dolla $ign, with alternative student band POOL opening the show. Tyrone William Griffin Jr., known professionally as Ty Dolla $ign, is best known for his synthesizer-driven hits “Paranoid” and “Blasé,” which combine elements of R&B and hip hop. The rapper is performing a one-hour set before Mac Miller. Miller, real name Malcolm James McCormick, rose to fame in 2010 at age 18 with the release of his fourth mixtape, K.I.D.S. The Pittsburgh native’s most popular songs include the retrospectively relevant “Donald Trump,” dubbed by Rolling Stone as an “irresistible bro-down.” The 2011 frat anthem has garnered over 127 million views on YouTube, a video that features Miller bopping around a college party in search of a “big butt bitch” to get “on his Donald Trump shit.” The song is almost as egomaniacal and ostentatious as the person it’s named for, but might be bearable with the help of a few chemical substances. Granted, Miller’s sound has matured over the years - and he’s distanced himself from Donald Trump after the latter threatened to sue him over Twitter. Miller’s 2016 album The Divine Feminine explores the vastness and complexities of love, intimacy, and the universe, with vocal contributions from Cee-Lo Green, Kendrick Lamar, Ty Dolla $ign, and Miller’s current romantic partner, Ariana Grande. The resulting sound is much more mellow, dreamlike, and listenable, accented by Miller’s punchy rapping. Given Miller’s recent performance at the festival-turned-fashion-show Coachella, the Spring Fling set promises to be loud and rowdy. CLOCKWORKDJ, Miller’s official live producer, is performing a solo set before joining Miller on stage for the headlining show. Opening for the big rap acts is POOL, a funky alternative band comprised of Binghamton University students Eric Sabshon, Robert Castriota, Sage Gibbons, and Joe Gallo. Guitarists Gallo and Sabshon met in 2015 at BU’s student orientation and have been making music together ever since, gradually culminating a full band. Their first band, The Three 4s, won last year’s Battle of the Bands competition, opening for Walk the Moon and T-Pain at the 2016 Spring Fling concert. After their lead singer Allie Young left to study abroad, the band had some major restructuring to do. “We really never had a set lineup of musicians before now,” says Sabshon. “Our last bassist, Scott, was Orthodox Jewish and couldn’t play on Shabbat, which was Friday into Saturday
night. So he really couldn’t play the majority of our shows, including the first Spring Fling. Rob came in and had to learn all of our songs in a week.” “And our previous drummer Pete was a graduate student, so eventually he got engaged with his teaching and couldn’t stay with the band,” Castriota recalls. In January 2017, the band picked up drummer and vocalist Gibbons, who has roots in jazz and blues. The result is a funkier, dancier sound, structured by Gallo and Gibbons, accented with technical prowess of bassist Castriota and lead-guitarist Sabshon. The band was rechristened POOL, a tag name borrowed from Gallo’s roommate, who is a street artist. For the band, the new dynamic is powerful. “It was a learning experience these past few semesters, figuring out how to write music and run a band at the same time; plus all the member turnover made things a little harder,” reveals Gallo. “But this semester something just clicked. Sage and I have been saying that we’re writing the best music we’ve ever written in our lives right now.” With nine original songs, four committed members, and lots of practice time under their belts, POOL is looking forward to delivering a tight, energetic, and unique performance at Spring Fling. The band is hoping to offer some funky alternative variety for people who aren’t as interested in the main acts. Compared to previous years, when headliners have typically fallen within the alternative genre (albeit on the poppy side), this year’s are exclusively rappers. “Ty Dolla $ign and Mac Miller aren’t artists in our genre, but the good thing about it is that we’ll be the band for people who are looking for a live alternative band,” says Sabshon. “I hope that, for people who might not prefer the main acts, they still come out and enjoy our music. Our set might be their favorite set of the night.” The weekend before our interview, the band spontaneously played a house show on Chestnut Street. The response from the crowd, according to Gallo, was amazing. “We were playing in the living room of this house, and there were about seventy people there, and all of them were totally tuned in. People were dancing like crazy - you could really tell people were into it. That’s the best part about making music, I think, is seeing people physically enjoying what you spent so much time and effort creating. I hope Spring Fling will be just like that, on a bigger scale.” Binghamton University’s Spring Fling will take place on Saturday, May 6th. The all-day festival includes free rides and concession stands. The Spring Fling Main Stage will be located in front of the Student Wing on the Binghamton University campus. Doors open at 6:30pm. POOL is set to open the show at 7:30pm. The concert is free and open to the public.
April 2017 triple cities carousel 7
Have you danced with ransom yet? Thurs. 5/4 Brian Swan &Sonny Weeks Fri. 5/5 Next to Kin, Devinne Meyers Sat. 5/6 Hummel’s Mug, Tim White Thurs. 5/11 Alpha Brass Band Fri. 5/12 Masterpiece & Sirsy Sat. 5/13 Ship of Phools, Sons of Pitches Thurs. 5/18 Humble Beginnings Band Fri. 5/19 Next to Kin & A.E.S. School Rock Band Sat. 5/20 Last Call Wed. 5/24 Ransom Jazz Collective Thurs. 5/25 Tim Ruffo &Stiv Morgan Fri. 5/26 Parlor Cats Sat. 5/27 Kraig Moss & Nuth’n Fancy Wed. 5/31 The Neighbors:Joe & Pete & Calya food and drinks and music and dancing est. 1831
552 Main Street
APALACHIN ny ransomsteeletavern.com 8 carouselrag.com
AREA’S ONLY EXCLUSIVE BOAR’S HEAD DELI! -FEATURED SANDWICHES -SLICED MEATS & CHEESES -HOMEMADE SOUPS & DAILY SPECIALS -FREE DELIVERY!!!
-CATERING AVAILABLE FOR BUSINESS MEETINGS, SCHOOL EVENTS, PRIVATE PARTIES & MORE
1550 VESTAL PKWY EAST VESTAL, NY
(607) 754-DELI
OPEN MON-FRI 10-7, SAT 1130-3 JUST 5 MINUTES FROM BU... FIND US ON FACEBOOK: FULL BELLY DELI VESTAL
unlikely that they’ve heard of this piece. It’s really interesting-sounding. I guess the one piece of Mr. Ives’ that I remember best is his America Variations. Yes - we played that a number of years ago. Some of the compositional devices that he uses are apparent in a lot of his pieces, particularly polytonality, which is used by some of the later composers. I can even go back to Del Borgo, who wrote on the score to his piece that there’s actually an Ives-ian section of his piece. So he was greatly influenced by what had happened before him, from Ives.
Daniel Fabricius and the University Wind Symphony. Photo courtesy of Binghamton University Music Dept.
Made in America An interview with BU Wind Symphony conductor Daniel Fabricius by Doctor B.
I
N ADDITION TO BEING the Binghamton Wind Symphony’s conductor and director, Daniel Fabricius is also a percussionist. When we met at his office on the Binghamton University campus, he was carrying crotales: a set of small, tuned cymbals. We discussed the Symphony’s final show of the Spring 2017 concert season - a concert showcasing the music of 20th-century American composers. What is the concert called? The concert is called Made in America. The reference is to all the compositions being written by American composers, which is fairly common for band music, but not always. I was just trying to find that American theme with significant composers who have kind of left a mark on America through their efforts. Let’s talk about some of the composers whose music you’re featuring. Eliot Del Borgo, who has published about 600 compositions, is a native New Yorker. He graduated from SUNY Potsdam in 1960. Which of his compositions will you be presenting? The piece by Del Borgo is called Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night. You might recall that that’s also
a poem by the American poet, Dylan Thomas. Del Borgo used that poem as an inspiration for the composition. It’s not like a programmatic work or anything, but just kind of gives the feeling of what the poetry is about. The piece was commissioned by a high school group in Washington State. There were two teenage girls that were killed tragically in an accident, and this was a memorial to them. So it kind of approaches the concepts of loss and death, and how to cope with them. It’s a very interesting piece because, also, Del Borgo can be referenced to one of the other composers on the program; it was Vincent Persichetti. That’s kind of another connection that I was looking for. Vincent Persichetti taught not only Mr. Del Borgo - he also taught composers like Philip Glass and Peter [P.D.Q. Bach] Schickele. Yes, Persichetti was a major figure in mid-20th-century composition. He produced a lot of other good composers who were students of his. Persichetti is one of my favorites. He’s written a lot of great pieces for band. I shouldn’t say a lot - I think it was only 16 pieces - but that seems like a lot to me, and the significant piece that we’re doing is his Symphony No. 6, which really was a brand-new way for people to look at band writing in the mid-1950s. That’s the
major significance of this piece, that it’s kind of a turning point in the direction that composers were going, and certainly led by one of the greatest. Charles Ives is another composer you’re featuring, and he almost doesn’t need any introduction. He was one of America’s first modernist composers. I understand he even wrote a campaign song for President William McKinley. Well, that’s likely! Ives is quite an unusual character because he was not really in the music business. He was in the insurance business, and he just composed for his own amusement. And a lot of times he wrote pieces and kind of stuck them in his attic. A lot of pieces were discovered years after they were written. This particular piece that we’re doing is a transcription. He wrote a piano sonata, and this is one of the movements from the sonata called The Alcotts. The sonata references some actual people, or some figures in the community of Concord, Massachusetts. The Alcotts are, apparently, a family. It’s a very interesting piece. I think that one of the things I like to do with our concerts is to play some things that people really want to hear, and then some things that people never heard of before. And this is likely, even though they might have heard of Ives before; it’s probably
Which other composers are you planning to feature in this concert? The opening piece is a very common piece in band literature, written by Joseph Wilcox Jenkins, American Overture for Band: again, another piece from the mid-1950s written for the United States Army Band, I think. It features the French horn section in just a rip-roaring type of song, all original themes but it sounds like it’s got that Americana type of sound, almost Copeland-ish sometimes. It’s just a great opener to a concert. We’ve also got a traditional march in this concert, which is The Americans We, which I thought was a very appropriate title. But also, one of my favorite marches, [by] Henry Fillmore - a notable composer of marches, and composer of what they refer to as trombone novelties. He grew up during that great era of band music where bandleaders were like rock stars, in the early 20th century. He wrote a lot of compositions that were very memorable. The piece that we haven’t talked about is a very new piece, the Concerto for Tuba by Tom Davis. Tom Davis is a living American composer who lives in Canandaigua, New York. I’ve known Tom for many years and he’s written a lot of music for both concert bands and jazz bands and other media. He’s written his tuba concerto for another friend of mine, Michael Salzman, and Michael is going to be the soloist on that piece when we perform it in a couple of weeks. In Tom Davis’ words, “This is a little bit of superhero material.” It’s got a real sense of power from the extremeness of the tuba and the personality of the person it was written for. I think it’s going to be a real treat for everyone to hear. It’s a wonderful piece. I like it a lot because it’s got a lot of percussion in it. If you know me at all, you know I’m a percussionist. There’s a huge percussion section going on within the piece, and a lot of beautiful colors and textures. It’s just a very interesting piece. Made in America takes place on Sunday, May 7th, from 3-5pm in the Osterhout Concert Theater at the Anderson Center on the Binghamton University campus. Tickets for the concert are $7 general admission; $5 faculty, staff, alumni and seniors, and free for students, and are available at the Anderson Center Box Office from noon-5:30pm weekdays, by calling (607) 777-ARTS. They can also be obtained online at anderson. binghamton.edu, or at the door on the day of the show. For more info, call 607-777-2592, or visit the Music Department website, music.binghamton.edu. This event is sponsored by the Binghamton University Music Department.
April 2017 triple cities carousel 9
41 court street
binghamton every TUESDAY Dani’s 2-4-1 tuesdays
every wednesday mug club/beer share
every thursday
1/2 off apps with binghamton university id EXPERIMENTAL THURS. NEW SMALL BATCH BEER RELEASE (5 GAL ONLY) FROM 4-6PM
LIVE MUSIC fridays 5/5 bro-bros 5/12 dj jizzy fra 5/19 adam ash Quartet 5/26 dose the alien
EVERY SUNDAY
TEAM TRIVIA @ 7PM. WITH MUSICAL CLUES. HOSTED BY AP ENTERTAINMENT. PRIZES, DRINK SPECIALS, ETC.
open for lunch & dinner tues-sun 11am-late
galaxybrewingco.com FOR FULL EVENT LISTINGS AND MORE INFO 10 carouselrag.com
music briefs Jason Barady (L) and Nick Piccininni (R) of Floodwood. Photo by Stefanie Marco Lantz.
too. They combine brother-like rivalry, their passion for music, a lot of laughter and a heapload of energy into one very entertaining performance. Anything can happen with Floodwood... and they will make you part of it. But this is not a music brief about Floodwood. This is a music brief about the Floodwood Duo performance coming up on Saturday, May 13th at Cyber Café West. So pretend we didn’t mention Vinnie, Tony, or Chris. This is a music brief about Jason Barady and Nick Piccininni, the Floodwood Duo. Jason Barady spent over 10 years recording & touring with the Bluegrass group Wooden Spoon from Taos, until returning to his hometown in central, NY. An influential part of his local music scene, Jason plays with an unyielding energy and creativity on both local and national stages. Fans have been known to refer to him as “the Hendrix of Mandolin”. Nick Piccininni is a self-taught banjoist/ fiddler who learned his bluegrass chops the old-fashioned way: in picking circles at his favorite bluegrass festivals. He has been involved in many projects including touring for two years with CMA recording artists, The Abrams Brothers. The duo hits the stage at Cyber Café West at 9pm on Saturday, May 13th. Cover charge is minimal. Cyber Café West is located at 176 Main Street in Binghamton. More info at cybercafewest.com.
ADAM ASH QUARTET AT GALAXY BREWING
METKU CONTRA DANCE AT TRINITY CHURCH
On Saturday, May 6th, Metku musicians will be adding some Finnish energy to the monthly contra dance at Trinity Church in Binghamton. Special guest fiddler Derrick Doty from Council Grove, Kansas will join Metku musicians Katrina Mackey, Phil Robinson, Michael Ludgate, and caller Hilton Baxter. A native of Kansas, Derrick Doty has spent the last twelve years in Council Grove, where he owned his own barber shop. For about ten years he hosted a jam session after hours in the shop, or on the sidewalk out front when weather permitted. Derrick has been playing for contras and barn dances for over a decade around Eastern Kansas with bands such as Tallgrass Express String Band, Instant Grits, and Flint Hills Medicine Show. In addition to barn dances, he has also been active in organizing, calling, and playing for mid19th century balls. In fact, about anything 19th century occupies Doty’s free time. Banjo music from the 1850s-90s is of particular interest, as is traditional fiddle music of that period. However, his fiddle repertoire stretches from the late 18th century up to present, including some of his own compositions. Join the dance from 7-9pm. Trinity Memorial
Church is located at 44 Main Street in Binghamton. There is an $8 entrance fee. More info at metkumusic.org and binghamtondance.org.
MASON WARRINGTON ORCHESTRA AT FIREHOUSE STAGE
The Mason Warrington Orchestra, the Southern Tier’s premier Big Band, will return to the Schorr Family Firehouse Stage in Johnson City for a concert called “Swing Into Spring”, on Sunday, May 7th at 2pm. The concert is part of Goodwill Theatre’s 201617 Music Hall Concert Series, sponsored by Bates Troy Quality Dry Cleaning. The Mason Warrington Orchestra has performed at the Forum Theater, Vestal Memorial Park, the Stage at Little Italy, the Kalurah Temple, and the Vestal American Legion. Their successful performance at the Schorr Family Firehouse Stage last fall featured Big Band favorites such as, “I Got Rhythm”, and “They Can’t Take That Away From Me.” The band’s musical director is Hank Slechta. The vocalists are Judy Giblin and Ralph Muro. The saxophone section includes Al Hamme, Bob Pompi, Tim Donlin, Hank Slechta, and Jeremy Corcoran. The trumpet section includes Alan Howell,
Corky Klinko, John Harper, and Larry West. The trombone section includes John Cooley, Warren Harrold, and Bob Wagner. Jim Ford plays piano, Tom Federowicz plays bass, and Brad Nemcek plays drums. Tickets are $20 for adults, $16 for seniors and students, and can be purchased online at goodwilltheatre.net or by calling the box office at: (607) 772-2404, ext. 301. The Schorr Family Firehouse Stage is located on the corner of Corliss Avenue and Willow Street in Johnson City.
FLOODWOOD DUO AT CYBER CAFÉ WEST
Floodwood is a progressive string band from Central NY featuring the combined talents of Vinnie Amico (moe.), Tony Markellis (Trey Anastasio Band), Jason Barady, Nick Piccininni and Chris Eves. With “bluegrass instruments” (plus drums) these 5 musicians from varied backgrounds show that music knows no bounds. At a Floodwood show you can expect to hear everything from traditional sounding bluegrass to Jessie J, jazz to the Grateful Dead... really just anything and everything. As for what you will see at a Floodwood show; the band wishes they knew
Join Adam Ash (tenor sax), Gene Cothran (keys), Joe Roma (drums), and Heather Merlis (vocals) at Galaxy Brewing Co. on Friday, May 19th, for a night of standards from the American songbook. Adam Ash has been playing tenor saxophone for most of his life, gaining local recognition from a young age with the band Yolk, then going to hone his skills at the School of Jazz at the New School and SUNY Purchase’s Music Conservatory. Although Gene Cothran was a jazz enthusiast in his native Philadelphia, he was classically trained and didn’t begin playing jazz piano until later in life. Now he is a staple of the Binghamton jazz scene, appearing regularly with Miles Ahead. Joe Roma graduated from Binghamton University with a Bachelor of Music degree with Honors. He has performed with the Binghamton Philharmonic, Tri-Cities Opera, BC Pops, Binghamton Community Orchestra and Cider Mill Playhouse, as well as at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, and in concert with Dionne Warwick and Clark Terry. Heather Merlis is a local teacher, writer, and editor (for this magazine), but singing is her greatest joy. She currently studies voice under Ciara O’Neill-Mendoza, and has performed principal roles in several local theatrical productions. The group will bring swinging musicianship to each timeless tune they play. Music starts at 9pm. Admission is free. Galaxy Brewing Co. is located at 41 Court Street in Binghamton. More info at galaxybrewingco.com.
April 2017 triple cities carousel 11
music briefs FRENCH-CANADIAN FOLK AT 6 ON THE SQUARE
George Thorogood plays Tag’s 6/2. Photo Provided.
On Friday, May 19th, it’s just a short drive to Oxford to check out Les Poules a Colin at 6 On the Square. Les Poules a Colin (the name comes from a traditional song and translates to “Colin’s Hen’s”) are a young band from Quebec’s Lanaudiere region, famous for its traditional music: they learned their craft from the finest in the genre. On top of their natural talent, energy and respect for the repertoire, they have beautifully arranged both original and folk-trad tunes and songs for fiddle, foot percussion, twin vocals, guitars, banjo, mandolin and electric bass. fRoots calls it “A new take on Quebecois folk”. Music starts t 7:30pm. Tickets are available at the pre-show discounted price of $18 (plus $2 service charge) or $20 at the door. 6 On the Square is located at 6 Lafayette Park in Oxford, NY. More info at 6onthesquare.org.
CAKE PLAYS OMMEGANG
As they approach their twentieth anniversary, CAKE’s adherence to their original guiding principles has only grown stronger. Formed during the ‘90s as a somewhat antagonistic answer to grunge, CAKE’s democratic processes, defiant self-reliance, and lucid yet ever-inventive music has made them a nation-state unto themselves, with no obvious peers, belonging to no school. In addition to writing, arranging, producing, and performing their own music, they have taught themselves to engineer their recording projects in their own solar-powered studio, which actually generates more power than is needed to run it, causing the building’s electrical meter to run in reverse. CAKE’s most recent album, Showroom of Compassion, debuted at #1 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart and was touted as deadpan brilliance by the New Yorker. The band is currently in the recording studio working on their ninth album due for release sometime this year. Go the distance down I-88, invite that girl with the short skirt and long jacket to come along, and catch CAKE in concert at Brewery Ommegang on Friday, May 26th. Doors open at 5pm, show starts at 8pm. Tickets are $45 in advance, available now through dspshows.com or ommegang.com. As of print time, onsite camping passes are sold out. Brewery Ommegang is located at 656 County Highway 33 in Cooperstown, NY. This marks the season opener for Dan Smalls Presents shows at the picturesque brewery.
OLD CROW MEDICINE SHOW AT OMMEGANG, TOO!
If you’re already driving to Cooperstown for CAKE, might as well spend the weekend and take advantage of Dan Smalls Presents’ second Ommegang show of the season, Old Crow Medicine Show. OCMS started busking on street corners in 1998 New York state and up through Canada, winning audiences along the way with their boundless energy and spirit. They eventually found themselves in Boone, North Carolina, where they caught the attention of folk icon Doc Watson while playing in front of a pharmacy. He invited the band to play at his festival, MerleFest, helping
12 carouselrag.com
to launch their career. Shortly thereafter the band was hired to entertain crowds between shows at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, TN. It’s been over nineteen years since these humble beginnings. The band has gone on to receive the honor of being inducted as members of the Grand Ole Opry, and have won two Grammy Awards: “Best Folk Album” for Remedy (2014) and “Best Long Form Music Video” for Big Easy Express (2013). Additionally, their classic single, “Wagon Wheel”, received the RIAA’s Platinum certification in 2013 for selling over 1,000,000 copies. The band makes a stop at Brewery Ommegang (their fourth in as many years) on Sunday, May 28th, in support of their newest release, 50 Years of Blonde on Blonde. The album, celebrating the golden anniversary of the classic Bob Dylan record, is a loving tribute from folk’s modern torchbearers to their legendary mentor. They’ll be performing the album in its entirety at the brewery, including Dylan classics like “Rainy Day Women #12 & 35,” “Stuck Inside of Mobile…,” and “Leopard Skin Pill-Box Hat.” Doors open at 5pm and music starts at 7pm. Binghamton’s Driftwood opens the show. Tickets are $40 in advance, available now through dspshows.com or ommegang.com. Camping passes are available for an extra fee, but will sell out. Brewery Ommegang is located at 656 County Highway 33 in Cooperstown, NY.
GEORGE THOROGOOD, FOGHAT, MOLLY HATCHET AT TAG’S IN BIG FLATS
Tag’s Budweiser Summer Stage in Big Flats is celebrating 25 years of concerts in the Southern Tier in a big way- with three certified rock legends. George Thorogood and the Destroyers’ “Rock Party Tour 2017” starts the season off on June 2nd. If Mr. Bad-to-the-Bone isn’t enough for you, special guests Foghat and
Molly Hatchet will be performing as well. George Thorogood became a staple of 1980s rock radio, with original hits like “Bad to the Bone” and “I Drink Alone,” as well as reinterpretations of iconic blues tunes like “Move It on Over,” “Who Do You Love?” and “House Rent Boogie/One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer.” With his band, the Delaware Destroyers, Thorogood has released over 20 albums, of which two have been certified Platinum and six have been certified Gold. He has sold 15 million albums worldwide. From a birthday party in Wilmington, Delaware to concert stages around the world, it’s been one of the most incredible and uncompromising rides in American music. Gates will open at 6pm and the show begins at 7:15pm. As a special thank you to Tag’s customers and in celebration of the Summer Stage’s’ 25th anniversary, all general admission tickets are only $25. Reserved seating tickets are $49.50 and Gold Circle tickets are $75. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by calling 800-650-TAGS, going to tagstickets.com, or stopping by Tag’s, located at 3037 State Route 352 in Big Flats, NY.
JEN CHAPIN AT ATOMIC TOM’S
Jen Chapin’s music is urban folk soul — story songs that search for community and shared meaning, powered by the funk and improvisation of the city. Critics have hailed her work as “brilliant.. soulfully poetic” (NPR), “thoughtful … worth-savoring” (People), “addictive” (Boston Globe), “smart, observant, lyrically deft, politically aware and emotionally intuitive” (Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel). JazzTimes has called her “a first-rate storyteller” while Relix regards her as “one of the
freshest voices singing today.” Jen has been featured on “Late Nite with Conan O’Brien”, NPR’s Mountain Stage and WoodSongs OldTime Radio Hour, Sirius Satellite’s “The Loft with Mike Marrone” and Mary Sue Twohy’s “The Village,” been honored by the USA Songwriting Competition, has performed on stage with Bruce Springsteen, and has opened up for Bruce Hornsby, Smokey Robinson, and the Neville Brothers. After the original songs on her 2004 release Linger and her 2006 effort Ready were met with critical acclaim, Jen’s recent work has highlighted her gift for interpreting classic songs — notably those with a message. Her 2008 CD/DVD Light of Mine featured songs from Van Morrison, Radiohead, Joni Mitchell and others, as well as live performances filmed at NYC’s Joe’s Pub and other music videos. In 2010 the audiophile label Chesky Records released Jen’s ReVisions: Songs of Stevie Wonder. Both albums were built on the strength and intimacy of live performances from small ensembles: Light of Mine was a collaboration with her husband, acoustic bassist Stephan Crump, and his “Rosetta Trio” with Liberty Ellman and Jamie Fox on guitars. ReVisions had Jen joining forces with Stephan and Chris Cheek on saxophones. The Jen Chapin Trio as well as Jen with Rosetta Trio have toured over this time throughout the US and UK. A 2011 EP release titled 5 songs, served as a prelude for the album Reckoning, Jen’s first full-length album of her original songs in 7 years, produced by 5-time Grammy award winner Kevin Killen. Reckoning is “songs of ambition (and the lack therof), of anger, and gratitude, of privilege, and being without, of being overwhelmed but still hungry for more life. In short, of family.” Jen’s music reflects a diversity of experience. She is mother to 7 year old Maceo and 3 year old Van Crump, who most often accompany their parents on tour. She is an activist, with a life-long involvement in WhyHunger (founded in 1975 by Jen’s late father, folk singer Harry Chapin), an organization that champions innovative, community-based solutions to hunger and poverty; and is also active in the local and sustainable food movement. She is an educator, leading workshops and presentations to college, community and church groups, with a background teaching full-time in Brooklyn classrooms. And she is a student, with a BA in International Relations from Brown University, additional studies at Berklee College of Music, extensive travels and studies in Zimbabwe and Mexico, and an ongoing passion to learn more about the world, and its emerging pathways to greater social justice. Catch this rare talent at Atomic Tom’s (196 State Street in Binghamton) at 9pm on June 2nd. There is no cover, although donations for the band are encouraged. This show is the season opener of the Binghamton Live Songwriters Series. More info on facebook.
Music briefs compiled by John Donson: music@carouselrag.com
6 ON THE SQUARE
an intimate listening venue where you’re never more than 20 feet from the stage. acoustic music performances of all genres & exhibits with area artists.
5/12 Patrick fitzsimmons
5/19 Les Poules a Colin
6/3 robin & linda williams
6 Lafayette Park Oxford, NY (607) 843-6876 6onthesquare.org
Residential l Commercial l Interior l Exterior
607-222-9225 Binghamton, NY
Fully Insured. Now Accepting Major Credit Cards! 5% OFF WITH MENTION OF THIS AD April 2017 triple cities carousel 13
PJ’S D J SERV IC E All Music Played -Any GenreAny Size Party Graduation Wedding Retirement
20+ Years of Experience Call For More Details
607-2 2 2 - 47 57
14 carouselrag.com
Experience Over Things!
-Artisan Kavas from Polynesia -Teas from China + Taiwan -Elixirs to provide you with an experience… that doesn’t rely on alcohol, coffee or circumstantial friends to create a feeling of... community, culture, & good Vibes.
Come indulge in a world of exotic + sensual, herbal + nutraceutical decadence... enhance your deepest trance.
EXPLODING
FINGERS
GUITAR DOJO
A monthly lesson in music theory from guitar player extraordinaire Chris Arp
W
ELCOME BACK TO ALL of Binghamton area shredders. Spring is now in full effect. I hope everyone is feeling inspired by it’s energy in the air. In the last two issues we discussed solfège. You can find those articles, their accompanying instructional videos, and all our other previous articles at www.explodingfingers.com. This month we are going to start looking at the “rule of nine”. We are also going to look at 2nd and 7th diatonic intervals. The rule of nine is a concept that explains how two intervals will compliment each other within an octave. We will focus on the first interval pair of 2nds and 7ths. Let’s look at the C major scale. If you were to measure the distance between C and D (Fig.1) you will see it is a major Fig. 1 2nd. A major 2nd is 2 half steps. Fig. 2 Now if you were to complete the octave, you would measure the interval between D and the next C (Fig. 2). Here you will find the interval is a minor 7th. A minor 7th is 10 half steps. These two intervals, the major 2nd and the minor 7th, compliment each other to create an octave. 2 plus 7 equals 9. And this is where we get the rule of nine. If one interval is major, then the other is minor. And visa versa. So if you start out with a minor 2nd, which is 1 half step, a major 7th, which is 11 half steps, will compliment it to create an octave. You can also start out with a 7th and follow it with a 2nd in a reciprocal fashion. Fig. 3 What can we start to do with this knowledge? For starters, we can start to practice playing these intervals. In Fig. 3 you will find our standard C major scale in the 8th position. Then you will find a layout of all of the diatonic 2nd and 7th groupings within the C major scale. Practice playing these notes by ascending and descending. Start out playing them slower than your standard exercises while using alternate picking. There are some string-skipping situations that may be tricky. Also there are some unorthodox finger barring you will have to try as well. So be patient and play cleanly. Then try using these shapes melodically over any situation you would use the C major scale. Play different combinations of these intervals, one after the other, or try intertwining these intervals with more traditional scaler usage. These 2nds and 7ths work great over any of the diatonic triads or 7ths chords because they have balanced scaler tension and consonance, but they have melodic peaks similar to traditional arpeggio runs. Visit my website www.explodingfingers.com to see an example of how to perform these exercises. If you have any questions, comments, column suggestions, or are interested in getting guitar lessons in the Binghamton area, contact me at explodingfingers@hotmail.com. Until next time, happy noodling!
April 2017 triple cities carousel 15
There’s something for everyone at
&
two great locations!
765 Harry L Drive Johnson City 7 Court Street Binghamton Celebrating our 10th Anniversary! Join Yoga Body Shop for an All Day Yoga Immersion Celebration on Saturday, May 6th from 9am-7pm. The day will be loaded with 13 different workshops to choose from. A healthy catered lunch will be available. The whole day is designed to educate and promote a healthy lifestyle: healthy body, healthy mind, and healthy spirit. If not now, when?
visit our website for schedule listings www.yogabodyshop.com
16 carouselrag.com
theatre. pets in theatre. It was a wonderful gift that we got in that time with him.” Fisher speaks of the special challenges of Avenue Q (which is still running in New York City’s Theater District but is now considered off-Broadway). Quick costume changes, for example, become complicated when you have “actors” who cannot assist in dressing themselves. That is why the rented puppets come with duplicates, and why the crew includes “puppet wranglers” whose sole job is to manage the inanimate actors backstage. Directing actors in standard-style roles alongside onstage performers who are acting through puppets is also tricky. Fisher explains that, in this show, it is more important to see the puppets’ faces than it is with the human actors, because when a puppet turns his or her face away, it immediately takes the audience’s attention to the person working the puppet. The puppet must glance at whomever is being addressed then turn back into full view of the audience: “It isn’t natural,” for the puppeteer, he says. Then, there is the added problem that the live-hand puppets are operated by two people so, instead of the director having one actor per one character to deal with, in Avenue Q sometimes it’s a 3-in-one arrangement. Costuming takes special consideration; the puppeteer/actor’s apparel must be non-distracting and somewhat neutral, yet reflect the spirit of the character of the corresponding puppet.
The cast of Avenue Q. Photo provided.
Dirty puppets on the street For Two Weekends, There’s an Avenue Q in JC by Felicia Waynesboro
W
HEN THE PUPPETS arrived at the Firehouse Stage, each was accompanied by his or her own little garment bag of costumes - and an unspoken history of each time they ignited riotous laughter and melted hearts. Avenue Q – winner of Tony Awards for Best Musical, Best Score, and Best Book – lends a funny, childlike simplicity to the unpleasant realities of adult life through rod and livehand puppets, and human actors, too. Its visual presentation is unique and its tunes upbeat, even when confronting the audience with uncomfortable truths, like “Everyone’s a Little Bit Racist.” Scott Fisher, director of the musical for SRO Productions III, says that the show fits the arc of the company’s season, by interjecting an edgier concept with a smaller cast than their recent productions of Evita and 1776. They were confident that “the audience would come along for the ride.”
Though the show is peopled with puppets, it contains adult material and is not for young children. It is part of the SRO Underground - Theatre on the Edge series, and it boldly addresses, “things that aren’t traditionally touched upon in musical theatre.” Scott says, “When you get into your 20s, there’s a whole bunch of new life lessons,” and this musical lays them out with hilarity, charm, and disarming frankness. “Once you get into the second act, it goes into some heartfelt places,” Fisher points out. “You really care about these puppets and what happens to them. It’s a great, perfectly-structured show in that respect.” The tale of a recent college graduate colliding smack in the face with life takes place on a fictitious, run-down street said to be located in an “outer-outer borough” of New York City. Some of the roles are played by live actors, and some are played by puppets animated by actor/puppeteers who are clearly visible on stage. Carousel’s question of whether the actors in the show were already experienced
with puppets evoked a big laugh and an elongated “Nnnnnooo!” from Fisher. “Here’s the thing,” he says, “when we choose shows, we’re also not shying away from things that will challenge us.” SRO had the rare good fortune, through a little help from their friends, to companion with Rick Lyon, the creator of all the puppets for - and original cast member of - the Broadway production of Avenue Q. He was also a puppeteer for two decades on television’s much-loved and enduring Sesame Street. Lyon came to Binghamton and spent a good four hours training the SRO cast. He gave them the background of how the musical developed and why the originators chose to use the types of puppets they did - which include live-hand puppets that are operated by two people – and to use them in an unconventional way. “He taught us more than just how to mechanically work the puppets,” Scott says. “He taught us the philosophy behind these pup-
One character in the play is Gary Coleman – an imaginary version of the real-life child actor grown up into disappointing circumstances and portrayed, in this case and customarily, by an African-American woman. All these complications make for a singular experience for players and theatregoers. In sharing the vision of Avenue Q’s creators, Lyon affirmed how important it is that the audience can see how the puppets work. Fisher says, “I think, in a way, the show kind of pulls back that curtain on what the truth is.” Showing people actually working the puppets is a metaphor for honesty. “What you do when you watch Avenue Q is you build a belief system,” he says, rather than the customary suspension of disbelief. Before ever seeing the musical, Scott was familiar with a good deal of the songs, but “had really no idea the variety of emotions I would feel during the show. I laughed a lot, but I was surprised that I kind of got a little bit verklempt.” The realization the show aims to evoke, Fisher sums up, is that sometimes your dreams come true and sometimes they don’t, but either way, as you go through adulthood, “You know when you get there, it’s not what you expected, but it’s not that bad.” SRO Productions’ Avenue Q runs May 12th14th and 19th-21st, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm and Sundays at 2pm at the Schorr Family Firehouse Stage, 48 Willow St. in Johnson City. Tickets and more info at sroproductionsonline.com.
April 2017 triple cities carousel 17
Taking flight in Greene
Chenango River Theatre presents Sheila Cowley’s ‘Flying’ by Charles Berman
D
URING WORLD WAR II, over a thousand United States women flew planes on dangerous assignments as part of the organization called Women Airforce Service Pilots, or WASP. But while their missions were as risky as anyone’s, they were officially considered civilians, and not granted veteran status by the US until 1977. When the war ended, all these talented pilots were dismissed and sent home - most likely never to fly again. It’s a chapter of history that most people have never heard of, but it’s being highlighted today by the Chenango River Theatre in Greene, which is presenting the world premiere of Flying, Florida playwright Sheila Cowley’s play about the members of the WASP program. According to Cowley, reading about the period led to her interest in the recollections of the women who participated in the program, and to the story of their involuntary transition back out of military life. “The background of the play,” she tells Carousel, “is based on oral histories and memoirs of women who flew military planes in World War II so that men could go and fight. They were doing some pretty amazing stuff that a lot of people haven’t heard about.” Cowley elaborates: “They were test pilots; they flew transport and did training. They trained men to dogfight. And the part that really interested me was that they did that for not a terribly long time and then all got sent back home to get back to normal. The men came home from the war and the women mostly had to stop flying at that point. Nobody would hire them because now there were male pilots who could do the job when they returned. And the time of that difficult transition back to home life was what interested me about their stories.”
somebody how to throw anti-aircraft artillery from the ground? You shoot at planes. And the women were the ones flying the planes towing these target flags that the men were shooting live ammunition at. Because how else do you train people?” The story of Flying follows Susan, a veteran of the WASP program, her flying-ace husband Bob who returns home from the war to absorb all the glory, and Fisher, Bob’s war-injured gunner whom Susan feels compelled to hire. Cowley’s fourth full-length play, Flying has been in development for five years, and has seen successful staged readings in Chicago and London, as well as Cowley’s home city of St. Petersburg, Florida, on its way to a fully-staged premiere. Cowley, who had the chance to workshop the script intensively with two casts in Florida before its staged premier, says that its reception was overwhelmingly positive. “It’s been amazing. It’s gotten this universal really positive response at every reading. Almost entirely, people are surprised. They’ve never heard the story. Every now and then there is somebody whose dad was in the Air Force in World War II who had sort of heard about it or knew somebody. But mostly it was completely overlooked. They didn’t preserve the history very much officially. And people come up to me afterwards. People are still coming up to me. Most recently they sold out and they had to bring in extra chairs. And almost everybody stayed for the post show talkback.” Cowley will be doing a talkback in Greene as well, after the performance on Friday, June 9th.
That transition was not always an easy one, but social mores of the era insisted that women played a domestic role when men were available to play the military ones. As Cowley explains, “They all got sent home. And most of them never flew again. You could only really fly if you had the money to own your own plane - a little plane, because nobody was going to hire you to fly a big plane anymore. So it was this amazing, very brief time.”
Cowley’s play is a fictional one, but it uses real history not only to tell an affecting story, but to teach about an important and little-known area in the history of World War II, and of the rights of women and their participation in the US military. As she puts it, “The play is fictional. The story of what’s happening in the play is fictional. But everything they say when they talk about airplanes or the work that they did during the war - that’s all true; that’s all documented. So people really connect to that - to the wounded veteran, to the tangled families, and to the fact that these women are probably about to have to stop flying. The play is about storytelling - how you keep things and people alive through stories.”
She continues, “They were flying B-26s because the men were afraid to fly them. They were enormous and you had to land them really fast, or they crashed. And so they asked the girls to do it to sort of shame the guys into flying them. They were test pilots, and they were having to teach them how to dogfight. How do you even teach somebody how to do that? And the way they did it was that they used cameras instead of guns. You could see on the camera whether or not you got a hit. The men didn’t realize that the planes diving down on them were flown by women, who shot down more US pilots with their cameras than the Germans ever did. How do you teach
Flying will be performed at the Chenango River Theatre at 991 State Highway 12 in Greene, NY between May 26th and June 18th, at 7:30pm on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and at 2pm on Sundays. May 26th’s show will feature a free dessert, and May 28th’s will allow patrons to name their own price. There will be a post-show talkback on Friday, June 9th. The production is directed by Drew Kahl. Tickets are $22 on Thursdays, $23 on Fridays and Sundays, and $25 on Saturdays. Student tickets are half price. Tickets can be bought at chenangorivertheatre.org or by calling (607) 6568499.
18 carouselrag.com
a
a
TUES. NIGHT TACOS WED. $2 BURGERS Soft or hard tacos, 2 for $1 (6-9pm)
1/2 lb, handmade & charbroiled (6-9pm)
Every Wednesday: Deep Cuts w. Dan Pokorak Every Thursday: Team Trivia Fridays & Saturdays: Live Music Every Sunday: Karaoke Connection w. DJ Dave If we’re open, the kitchen’s open! Burgers, spiedies, phillies, reubens, wings, fries, etc. 190 Main Street, Binghamton
(find us at the corner of beethoven and main on the west side) sun-thurs 3p-1a, fri-sat 3p-3a
LIVE MUSIC BY:
BESS GREENBERG SATURDAY 2-4PM
GREG NEFF SUNDAY 2-4PM
ALWAYS WORTH THE TRIP! MCC 1044 MCCORMICK RD. BRACKNEY, PA (570) 663-2297 SEAHAGSOAPS.COM
April 2017 triple cities carousel 19
BEEF THE
A trip for your tastebuds!
Restaurant & Pub
daily drink & dinner specials live music every week 62 LEROY ST BINGHAMTON (607) 779-BEEF
20 carouselrag.com
(607) 239-6718
bakedeuphoria.com
2408 Watson Blvd. Endwell, NY Cakes for every occasion. Share the Euphoria.
theatre briefs
Cast of Rent. Photo by Carol Rosegg.
We at Carousel were devastated to learn that our dear friend Jennifer Heggelke’s beautiful son, Abel, has been diagnosed with Stage III neuroblastoma, and is classified as high risk. At three years old, Abel is a full-fledged Binghamtonian, a part of the community from the day he was born. Cheerful and serene since infancy, he has brought light into our larger circle of friends, and he needs our help. Abel is currently being cared for by the wonderful staff at Upstate University Medical Hospital, and, of course, his family. But as a single mother, Jen has a heavy weight on her shoulders. As a community, we have the opportunity to lighten that load. By donating to Abel and Jen, Jen will be able to focus her attention on her child and stay by his side as they make this trying transition into a different way of life. Abel needs his mom, and Jen needs us. Please donate whatever you can, and keep Abel in your thoughts and heart.
If you’d prefer to mail a donation, please make checks payable to: Jen and Abel Trust Fund c/o Triple Cities Carousel PO Box 2947 Binghamton, NY 13902
gofundme.com/jenandabel
LADY WINDERMERE’S FAN COOLS WATTERS THEATRE
ican theatre. Two decades later, Jonathan Larson’s Rent continues to speak loudly and defiantly to audiences across generations and all over the world. Now, this Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning work returns to the stage in a vibrant 20th anniversary touring production. A reimagining of Puccini’s La Bohème, Rent follows a remarkable year in the lives of seven artists struggling to follow their dreams without selling out. With its inspiring message of joy and hope in the face of fear, this timeless celebration of friendship and creativity reminds us to measure our lives with the only thing that matters in the end: love. The musical is presented Sunday, May 7th at the Forum Theatre, 236 Washington Street in Binghamton. Evening performance is 7:30pm; matinee is 3pm. Ticket prices are $35, $47, and $59. For details, or to purchase tickets, visit nacentertainment. com and click “Binghamton,” or call (607) 772-1391.
BIG APPLE COMEDY CLUB LAUGHS AT GOODWILL THEATRE
200 MILES OFF-BROADWAY
As the alluring Lady Windermere busily prepares for her birthday celebration, she is dazzled by the gift of a unique and beautiful fan from her apparently adoring husband. Very shortly, her beloved fan becomes the very thing that may shatter her idyllic marriage. The classic social comedy was written by Oscar Wilde and is directed by Tom Kremer, Professor of Theatre at Binghamton University. The production opened last month and remaining performances are May 5th and May 7th at the Watters Theater of the Anderson Center for the Performing Arts on the Binghamton University campus in Vestal. Friday curtain is 8pm; Sunday matinee is 2pm. General admission is $18; alumni/ faculty/seniors/staff admission is $16; student tickets are $10. For additional ticketing or other information visit andersoncenter. showare.com or call (607) 777-2787.
As part of the Big Apple Comedy Club Series, finalists from the NYC Ladies of Laughter contest once again grace the Firehouse Stage this month. The Goodwill Theatre calls this, “stand-up comedy at its finest.” The comedians appearing are Ellen Karis, Chris Rich and Shelly Colman. Karis, known as the Greek Goddess of Comedy, has a sarcastic brand of observational humor, which she displays on her live weekly radio show Karis Comedy Corner on BBOXRadio.com. Rich is an award-winning comedian, comedy writer, and author, who is showcased at clubs in NYC, Vegas, and Atlantic City. Colman is a voiceover professional who does comedy in clubs around NYC. Performance is Saturday, May 6th at the Schorr Family Firehouse Stage, 48 Willow Street in Johnson City. Show time is 7pm. Admission is $15. The production contains adult subject matter and is meant for audiences of 18 years and older. Visit goodwilltheatre.net or call (607) 7722404 for additional information.
PAYING RENT AT THE FORUM THEATRE
In 1996, an original rock musical by a little-known composer opened on Broadway… and forever changed the landscape of Amer-
IN ENDICOTT
Spring has finally sprung, and Darkhorse Dramatists can’t wait to show off their new shorts! The fifth annual 200 Miles Off-Broadway play festival features a robust collection of one-acts and monologues from local and national playwrights. These plays are all debuts – fresh and diverse comedies and dramas. The series includes: Checkpoint by Jason Irwin; The Kindness of Strangers by Jim Gordon; Absolution Green by Paul Kodiak; Pearls of Wisdom by Pete Bowers and Carousel’s own Charles Berman; As Colonel Merideth Eastwood Floats in Space by Alex Dremann; Water Under the Bridge by Shirley Goodman; Boxed In by Ciji Guerin; Beautiful C by Cat Robinson; and The Voice by Joe Gulla. The plays are presented May 12th and 13th at the Cider Mill Playhouse, 2 Nanticoke Avenue in Endicott. Curtain is 7:30pm. Tickets are $15 for general audience and $10 for students and seniors, and can be purchased online at cidermillplayhouse.com, by calling (607) 748-7363, or at the Cider Mill Playhouse box office. For further information, call (607) 771-1314. Theatre briefs compiled by Felicia Waynesboro: stage@carouselrag.com
April 2017 triple cities carousel 21
52 MAIN ST. BINGHAMTON
FREE DELIVERY TO ALL DOWNTOWN STUDENT HOUSING & SUNY BROOME
LATE NIGHT OPEN & DELIVERING FRIDAY & SATURDAY
607-722-2003
22 carouselrag.com
business.
Timothy and Philomena Harris at their shop , 33 West State Street in Binghamton. Photo by Stephen Schweitzer.
Forty years of leather A history of the Harris Family business by Zoe Davis-Chanin
leatherwork is creative - an art and an outlet.
The story of Leather Corner Shoe Repair began 45 years ago with one man’s dream to make a pair of pants for himself. Today, standing in his shop, Timothy Harris sports a pair of leather pants-boots, his own design, and a shirt, with raglan sleeves, which meet in the center-back and run up to the collar in a kind of turtle neck. The shirt also zippers down the front - and the sleeves. But, his craftwork had humbler beginnings. He remembers his first pair of pants with a laugh, “I had to keep cutting down the pattern until I could barely squeeze into them.”
In many ways, leatherwork is the same as sewing, I learned. Tim takes a person’s measurements, constructs a custom pattern, and then cuts the leather and sews it together. To do this work, he has to buy single hides for $325-$400 wholesale, enough material to make one jacket. Crafting and repairing leather shoes requires an entirely different set of skills. “You gotta come up with shoe lathes - with a hinged section, so you can fold the heel up. And then you sand and shape that to the shape of the shoe. And you get all the foot measurements and you look at the shape of the arch.” Tim’s passion for leatherwork was obvious - as was his expert knowledge, of both the technical process of production and the global leather industry.
At the time, Timothy had been working at Raymond Corporation. “I hung out in the saddlery and watched the guy make saddles,” he continued, “And then the parts washer the saddle maker next door - went blind, so I bought hides off of him for a dollar a piece and started making stuff.” Tim had always been good with his hands. Even as a paperboy in the ‘50s, he fixed up his own bicycle. A natural autodidact with a penchant for handiwork and painting, Tim taught himself the craft of leatherwork through trial and error - and periodic visits to the library. After marrying Philomena Harris in the late ‘60s and having their son, Richard, he taught her the craft as well. For Tim,
In 1972, when he lost his job at Raymond, he and Philomena passed a shoe repair in the Binghamton Plaza. “My wife says, ‘You do leather work - go in there and they’ll hire you.’ And I did. And they did. After two weeks, I was running the shoe repair.” From then on, the Harris’ dedicated themselves to leatherwork. “The cobbler shop was a crazy place,” Tim exclaims. “There was an Argentinian man in there. He and his wife had fled Argentina because of the disappeared. I started making
stuff with him and he would sell the stuff in NYC and we hooked up with other Argentinians in NYC and then we all moved to NYC and worked in a place called Rona. We were doing wholesale - we were doing Macy’s, everybody. So we were doing the whole crafts show, five floors of a hotel with the vendors and everybody walking around handing out contracts. They tried to move it to California, but my wife’s family was here, so we didn’t go to California; we came back up here.” Back in Binghamton, the Harris’ bought out the bankrupt Shoe Repair, where Tim had gotten his start. Four decades later, they’re still in business. The leather industry certainly hasn’t remained the same, though. In the ‘70s, custom leather was in vogue. “We were making Walter Dyer type stuff,” Tim says, “The latted gold laced together pocketbooks. And some French coats, pants, vests.” There was the lawyer’s wife, who commissioned a fourpiece suit of pure white leather. And the head veterinarian for New York State, who requested a big leather bag. Even Sting came into the shop with the Police to inquire about leather pants for the whole band after playing a show at the Broome County Arena. When the demand for custom leather died off in the ‘80s, “then shoe repair came back up. And then we used to make a lot of sandals.
The Jesus sandals,” Tim recounts. Today, most of the Harris’ business comes from bikers who need patches sewn to their motorcycle jackets. They haven’t sold custom leather garments for years. When asked why the market has dropped out for custom leather, Tim outlines a long history - of tanneries and craft leather shops dying off over decades, first in the Southern Tier, then the Northeast, and then the US entirely. Environmental regulations increased. Real wages declined. American craft leather surrendered to the new Asian market. Endicott-Johnson shoe factory - with which Tim had contracted for a time to make custom prototypes - left town. Leather shops in the Southern Tier closed, one by one - Leather Lines, which was filled with the custom creations of its owner; Leather Bound, whose owner stuffed a whole car with wholesale coats from a Pakistani train container. Oakdale Mall forced The Leather Attic out by tripling their rent in an effort to rent only to chains. A saddler in Greene, who had set up shop in an abandoned railroad station, shipped saddles to Texas to stay afloat. But, like the eye of a hurricane, the Leather Corner Shoe Repair has remained in its original location at 33 West State Street in Binghamton for forty-five years, while the world economy has transformed around it.
April 2017 triple cities carousel 23
triple cities carousel events.carouselrag.com mon. sun.
01 07 08 14 15 21 22 28 29
May Day Open House & Picnic (BUN) Film/Video Artist Series: John Knecht (BU) Team Trivia (CCW) Open Mic Night (BEL) Argentine Tango Class (EPAC)
Digital Planetarium Show (ROB) Youth Dance (COD), Lady Windermere (AC) Mason Warrington Orchestra (FHS) Harpur Chorale Spring Concert (AC) University Wind Symphony (AC) Lion King Jr (EPAC), Rent (FRM) Kennedy Center College Theater Fest (KNOW) Walton Young Artists (WAL), Karaoke (CAL) Sunday Funday (BEL), City Limits (MGRX) Dana LaCroix Sip-n-Sing (UNC) Greg Neff (HAG)
Spring Luncheon w/ Rick Pedro (PHL) Jazz Jam (FHS) Team Trivia (CCW) Open Mic (BEL) Argentine Tango Class (EPAC)
Mother’s Day Brunch (CIT) Digital Planetarium Show (ROB) Karaoke (CAL) Sunday Funday Revival (BEL) Binghamton City Limits (MGRX) Mother’s Day Music & Brunch (ORG) Avenue Q (FHS)
Linda Hickman (WAL) Team Trivia (CCW) Open Mic Night (BEL) Argentine Tango Class (EPAC)
Digital Planetarium Show (ROB) Karaoke (CAL) Sunday Funday Revival (BEL) Binghamton City Limits (MGRX)
Jazz Jam (FHS) Team Trivia (CCW) Open Mic Night (BEL) Argentine Tango Class (EPAC)
Digital Planetarium Show (ROB) Flying (CRT) Sand Beneath the City (KNOW) Karaoke (CAL) Sunday Funday Revival (BEL) Binghamton City Limits (MGRX) Old Crow Medicine Show (BO)
Team Trivia (CCW) Open Mic (BEL) Argentine Tango Class (EPAC)
(131) 131 Washington St, Binghamton
tues.
02 09 16 23 30
Piano Ensemble Recital (BU) Open Mic (CCW) Team Trivia (MGRX) Tuesday Night Swing Dance (TCK) Team Trivia (BAW) Trivia Night (LDC) Trash Tuesday (RSL)
Book Discussion: Leaving Lucy Pear (YHPL) Team Trivia (MGRX) Tuesday Night Swing Dance (TCK) Team Trivia (BAW) Karaoke (CCW) Trivia Night (LDC) Trash Tuesday (RSL)
Movie Night: Loving (YHPL) Glimmerglass World Premiere HipHopera (PHL) Team Trivia (MGRX) Tuesday Night Swing Dance (TCK) Team Trivia (BAW) Karaoke (CCW) Trivia Night (LDC) Trash Tuesday (RSL)
Team Trivia (MGRX) Tuesday Night Swing Dance (TCK) Team Trivia (BAW) Trivia Night (LDC) Trash Tuesday (RSL)
Team Trivia (MGRX) Tuesday Night Swing Dance (TCK) Team Trivia (BAW) Trivia Night (LDC) Trash Tuesday (RSL)
wed.
03 10 17 24 31
Cannon the Brave (CCW) Twisted Turtle Giant Pizza Challenge (ADR) KAS Meeting (KOP) Jazz Jam w/ Miles Ahead (LDC) Deep Cuts Pro Jam (CAL) Terry Walker (BEEF)
Primal Beat Drum Circle (BUN) Gluten Free Baking (BCFM) Chuck & Friends (CCW) Open Mic (LDC) Deep Cuts Pro Jam (CAL) Terry Walker (BEEF)
Amateur Radio Assoc. Meeting (KOP) Jazz Jam w/ Miles Ahead (LDC) Alex Creamer (CCW) Deep Cuts Pro Jam (CAL) Terry Walker (BEEF)
Primal Beat Drum Circle (BUN) Ransom Jazz Collective (RST) Greg Neff (CCW) Deep Cuts Pro Jam (CAL) Terry Walker (BEEF)
Andru Bemis (CCW) Deep Cuts Pro Jam (CAL) The Neighbors: Joe, Pete, Calya (RST) Terry Walker (BEEF)
(BCFM) Binghamton Regional Farmers Market
(CIT) Citrea Restaurant, Binghamton
(FRM) Broome County Forum Theater, Binghamto
(AC) Anderson Center, BU
(BEEF) The Beef Restaurant, Binghamton
(CMP) Cider Mill Playhouse, Endicott
(GAR) Garage Taco Bar, Binghamton
(ACA) American Civic Assoc. Binghamton
(BEL) Belmar Pub, Binghamton
(COD) Castle on the Delaware, Walton
(GXY) Galaxy Brewing Co., Binghamton
(ADR) Adriano's Pizza, Johnson City
(BLA) Blarney Stone, Norwich
(CRT) Chenango River Theatre, Greene
(HAG) Sea Hag Soaps & Art Mercantile, Friendsvill
(AL) American Legion, Binghamton
(BO) Brewery Ommegang, Cooperstown, NY
(CS) Clinton St, Binghamton
(HID) Holiday Inn Downtown, Binghamton
(AMC) American Legion, Endicott
(BTP) Blind Tiger Pub, Johnson City
(DCS) Discovery Center, Binghamton
(HOM) Homer Center for the Arts, Homer
(AMT) The Art Mission & Theater, Binghamton
(BU) Binghamton University, Vestal
(DTB) Downtown Binghamton
(JBC) John Barleycorn, Owego
(ATOM) Atomic Tom’s, Binghamton
(BUN) Bundy Museum, Binghamton
(DTO) Downtown Owego
(JOIE) En-joie Golf Club, Endicott
(BA) Broome County Veterans Arena, Binghamton
(CAL) Callahan’s Sportsman’s Pub, Binghamton
(EGG) Endwell Greens Golf Course
(KOP) Kopernik Observatory, Vestal
(BAW) Bawkas Tavern, Binghamton
(CAR) Carol's Art Cafe, Owego
(EPAC) Endicott Performing Arts Center
(LDC) Lost Dog Cafe/Lounge,Binghamton
(BBC) Binghamton Brewing Co, Johnson City
(CAT) Chenango Arts Council, Norwich
(FHS) Firehouse Stage, Johnson City
(MGRX) McGirk’s, Chenango Bridge
(BBW) Black Bear Winery, Chenango Forks
(CCW) Cyber Cafe West, Binghamton
(FOUN) Fountains Tavern, Johnson City
(MONT) Montrose, PA
24 carouselrag.com
on
le, PA
thur.
04 11 18 25
Carol’s Acoustic Open Mic Night (CAR) Paint & Sip (BBW) Corso de Palenzuela opening (BUN) Brian Swan & Sonny Weeks (RST) Bing. Philharmonic: Star Wars (FRM) Trivia Night (CAL) Kennedy Center College Theater Fest (KNOW) Acoustic Brew (BTP) Poetry Open Mic (BEL), Karaoke (LDC) Ugly Dolphin (CCW) Adam Ate the Apple (BEL)
Carol’s Acoustic Open Mic Night (CAR) Alpha Brass Band (RST) Nukporfe African Drum & Dance (AC) Trivia Night (CAL) Brady Goldsmith (BAW) Poetry Open Mic (BEL) Karaoke (LDC) Ugly Dolphin (CCW) Adam Ate the Apple (BEL) Get Sauced (LDC)
Carol’s Acoustic Open Mic (CAR) Blazing Saddles (WAL) Humble Beginnings Band (RST) Herb Class (YHPL) Trivia Night (CAL) Acoustic Brew (BTP) Poetry Open Mic (BEL) Karaoke (LDC) Ugly Dolphin (CCW) Adam Ate the Apple (BEL) Burlesque (EPAC)
Acoustic Open Mic Night (CAR) History Happy Hour (PHL) Cynthia Clarey (FHS) Tim Ruffo & Stiv Morgan (RST) Sand Beneath the City (KNOW) Trivia Night (CAL) Chris Mollo (BTP) Poetry Open Mic (BEL) Karaoke (LDC) Ugly Dolphin (CCW) Adam Ate the Apple (BEL)
05 12 19 26
fri.
calendar of events may 2017 sat.
Corso de Palenzuela opening (BUN), Lady Windermere’s Fan (AC) Cinco de Mayo Fiesta (CIT), Millibuster Benefit (CMP) First Friday Art Walk (DTB/DTO), BizFit Treasure Hunt (DTB) John Truth Experience (BBW), Face It! Theatre Printed Matter (131) Digital Planetarium Show (ROB), Boomerang Brian (KOP) Friday Night Programs (KOP), Lion King Jr (EPAC) Kennedy Center College Theater Fest (KNOW), Park Ave Revue (BTP) Next to Kin Record Release (RST), Debut of the Bro-Bros (GXY) Phyrgg (CCW), Live Music (CAL), Midnight Star (BAW), Deveroe (FOUN) Binghamton City Limits (MGRX), Sonando (ORG) Metku Contra Dance (TMC)
Splash (FIVE), John Truth Experience (BBW) Night in the Museum Sleepover (DCS), Catskill Dance Moves (WAL) Friday Night Programs (KOP) TigerTronics Competition Robot (KOP), Patrick Fitzsimmons (SOS) Masterpiece & Sirsy (RST), Elixer (BTP) Nate Marshall & Friends (CCW), Live Music (CAL) Midnight Star (BAW), Binghamton City Limits (MGRX) Adam Ate the Apple (ORG), DJ Jizzy Fra (GXY) Avenue Q (FHS) 200 Miles Off Broadway (CMP) Miss Stephanie’s WERK (LDC)
Parent & Me Pizza (BCFM), John Truth Experience (BBW) Blue Velvet Big Band Dance (AML), Digital Planetarium Show (ROB) Paranormal Investigation Tour (BUN), Les Poules a Colin (SOS) Friday Night Programs (KOP), Beer Brewing Basics w/ Galaxy (KOP) Next to Kin & AES Rock Band (RST), Adam Ash Quartet (GXY) Jamie Willard (CCW), Live Music (CAL) Midnight Star (BAW) Binghamton City Limits (MGRX) Elixer (ORG) Burlesque (EPAC) MJ Duke (LDC)
Rooster & the Roadhouse Horns (FIVE) Gluten Free Gourmet (PHNT), John Truth Experience (BBW) Digital Planetarium Show (ROB), Flying (CRT) Preview to Cassini’s Finale (KOP) Sand Beneath the City (KNOW) Joe & Jackie of Milkweed (BTP) Parlor Cats (RST), Coteries (CCW) Castle Creek (BLA), Live Music (CAL) Midnight Star (BAW), Binghamton City Limits (MGRX) Dose the Alien (MGRX), Cake (BO), Cans N Clams (HID) Martin Shamoonpour (LDC)
06 13 20 27
Chenango Arts Talent Sampler (CAT) Farmer’s Market (BCFM), Millibuster Benefit (CMP) Barnyard Saints (BAW), Explore & More (DCS) Digital Planet Show (ROB), Spring Fling (BU), Ralph Muro Trio (FIVE) Knife Skills Fundamentals (PHNT), Ladies of Laughter (FHS) Catskill Choral (WAL), Moonlight Café (KOP), Lion King Jr (EPAC) Kennedy Center College Theater Fest (KNOW), Reprise (BTP) Tim White & Hummels Jug (RST), Saturday Night Sessions (BEL) Live Music (CAL), DJ Space One (LDC) All Day Yoga Immersion (YBS), Wild Ramp Fest (RBC) Bess Greenberg (HAG)
Farmer’s Market (BCFM), Second Saturday (CS) Explore & More (DCS), Fairie Tea Party (DCS), Ron & Rhonda (FIVE) French Lessons Cooking Class (PHNT), Comedy Tour & Buffet (COD) Mother’s Day Cheesecake & Wine (BBW), Rick Iacovelli (BTP) Ship of Phools/Sons of Pitches (RST), Comedy for What Ales You (BBC) Floodwood Duo (CCW), Saturday Night Sessions (BEL) Live Music (CAL), Masterpiece (BAW) DJ Space One (LDC) Taze Yanick (VM) Avenue Q (FHS) 200 Miles Off Broadway (CMP)
Discovery Center Cup (JOIE), Farmer’s Market (BCFM) Book Sale (YHPL), Kopernikids in the Garden (KOP) Explore & More (DCS), Digital Planetarium Show (ROB) Dusty Wayne & Mr. Pete (BTP), Last Call (RST) Giovanina Bucci (CCW) Saturday Night Sessions (BEL) Live Music (CAL) DJ Space One (LDC) Chocolate & Wine Fest (MONT) Burlesque (EPAC) Craft Beer & BBQ (TAG)
Farmer’s Market (BCFM) Explore and More (DSC) Digital Planetarium Show (ROB), Lori & Chris (FIVE) Flying (CRT) Sand Beneath the City (KNOW) Edgy Sketch (BTP) Kraig Moss n Nuthn Fancy (RST) Monkey’s Typing (CCW) Saturday Night Sessions (BEL) Live Music (CAL) DJ Space One (LDC)
(ORG) Original’s Bar and Lounge, Owego
(SBIC) SUNY Broome Ice Center, Binghamton
(VM) Vestal Museum, Vestal
(OUH) Old Union Hotel, Binghamton
(SCPH) South City Publick House, Binghamton
(WAL) Walton Theater, Walton
(PHL) Phelps Mansion, Binghamton
(SOS) Six on the Square, Oxford
(WSBC) Water Street Brewing Co, Binghamton
(PHNT) Phantom Chef, Endicott
(TCK) Tri-Cities Karate, Endicott
(YBS) Yoga Body Shop, Johnson City
(RBC) Roscoe Beer Company
(TAG) Tag's Budweiser Summer Stage, Big Flats, NY
(YHPL) Your Home Public Library, Johnson City
(REC) Recreation Park, Binghamton
(TCO) Tri-Cities Opera House, Binghamton
(REM) Remlik's, Binghamton
(TIA) Tiawaga PAC, Owego
(RFG) Rolling Fire Glassworks, Endicott
(TMC) Trinity Memorial Church, Binghamton
(ROB) Roberson Museum, Binghamton
(TRQ) Tranquil Bistro, Binghamton
(ROS) Rosalind Bar-formerly Tranquil, Binghamton
(UNC) Uncorked Creations, Binghamton
(RPZ) Ross Park Zoo, Binghamton
(UPC) United Presbyterian Church, Binghamton
(RST) Ransom Steele Tavern, Apalachin
(VAM) Vestal American Legion
April 2017 triple cities carousel 25
“Klimt Walks on Water” by Milton Glaser.
Vehicle of the Visual
An interview with the legendary Milton Glaser by Ilana Lipowicz 26 carouselrag.com
art.
M
When you reinterpret the work of some like Piero della Francesca, what are you looking to find? The old way to learn how to paint was to copy old masters; that’s the traditional way of learning how to paint, from Renaissance art. But what you do is begin to understand something without raising it to consciousness. Something about form and color and shape and illusion by copying what someone else has observed - you can’t end there, you have to go on for what you’ve learned by copying - and when I did the Piero series where I travelled about Italy and drew from Piero, my idea was to treat Piero as nature, like you’re looking out a window and you paint the landscape. When I looked at Piero, I looked at him as though he were nature; I paint details of his observation in a series that deviated from what he did but used his visualization as the starting point.
ILTON GLASER IS THE designer behind one of the most iconic and enduring images in the world, the “I Love New York” logo, along with the famous psychedelic Bob Dylan poster and other well-known images like the Brooklyn Brewery logo. His thousands of creations are sprawled across our physical and digital worlds. In 1954, he co-founded Pushpin Studios, keeping illustration alive as photography was starting to take over. He studied in Italy with painter Giorgio Morandi as a Fulbright scholar. In 1968, he started New York Magazine. On display now at the Binghamton University Art Museum are two collections displayed in conjunction: in Milton Glaser: Modulated Patterns, we find a series of prints of landscapes and images influenced by the work of Cézanne, Toulouse-Lautrec, and Klimt. Then there is The Piero Project, a collection of watercolors exploring the work of Italian Renaissance artist Piero della Francesca. Carousel recently had the opportunity to speak with the lauded designer, illustrator, and artist. Where do you start when approaching a piece of artwork as opposed to a piece of design, and when do these processes overlap? Nobody knows what the distinction between art and design is, including students of design, and art, and instructors who teach design and art. They are two different intentions and they require two different states of mind. What is art is really determined by history, not by people who claim to be artists. So you don’t know if you’re doing art or not until maybe 100 years after you’re dead. Design has a purpose - that purpose is to go from an existing condition to a preferred one. That goes from when you’re designing a handle for a broom or an automobile. There’s something about it that intrinsically can be improved functionally. Art has a very different role in life - it has to do with the transformation of the mind into the way of seeing reality differently - so you can see, when you use the words interchangeably, you create mischief. Some of your designs, like the Bob Dylan poster and the “I Love New York” logo - these are iconic. What do you think made them stick? That’s one of the great questions, a question I’ve been asking myself over my life, and it’s a question of preference, right? Why do people prefer one thing over another? Why do some people say I can’t endure red, or I love blue-green, or that picture looks fabulous, or… what I’m saying is that these objective analyses are useless. The question is preference. Why people prefer one thing or another, questions of why do you prefer pizza to a hamburger, try to answer that question and you find most of it exists very early in the brain development; we become accustomed to certain experiences. Familiarity is certainly one of the things that determines preference, right? If you grow up having rye bread with every meal, you will always prefer rye bread over white bread. Or - that’s a clumsy analysis, but it has to do with familiarity and preconception.
Clockwise from top left: Glaser’s synonymous “I Love New York” logo (1977); Glaser’s 1967 poster for Bob Dylan’s Greatest Hits; a pensive Milton Glaser (photo via web); Glaser’s artwork for season 7 of AMC’s Mad Men (2014). What I always say is that a big problem in life to see clearly is to eliminate preconception, and that’s virtually impossible to do, whether it’s about whether you like a person because of their personality or whether you prefer one food or another, what you have been given, which is inaccessible to you. You don’t know what the meaning is of having been held by your mother in terms of every other decision you make in your life. As a designer, you’re constantly in conversation with this invisible audience that you are trying to reach. What has creating work for that audience taught you about people? What happens is, after you produce thousands of pieces of work, you discover that people like certain of them more than others of them and then very often you’re at odds to consider what things are that made people choose those. For instance, the “I Love NY;” why did that become so incredibly dismal and popular in the world, all over the world? I have no idea. But I don’t look at my work entirely as a marketing issue. People in the marketing world and advertising view everything this way. They’ll tell you what is preference - what people like better than other things - they’ll say, “well, yellow and blue is a more popular combination than purple and orange.” And then what that is
used for - and this is the devil in marketing is that is used as a reference for future work. So marketing starts by observing the past and seeing what you can learn from that in terms of repeating your success. The repetition of success is disastrous to personal growth and to artistry. You have been involved with the work Piero della Francesca for a long time. What do you find so captivating about his work? Well I can only give you the part that is not essential. The not essential part is first the exquisite sense of proportion and scale, a luminous sense of color, and above all - which is impossible to describe - is a sense of integrity, wholeness, and understanding of the universe. Everything is in the right relationship to everything else and there is a benign spirit that you experience when you look at Piero. The thing that you know about art, the thing that is knowable, is that it changes your experience and that you feel differently about the world. When I’m looking at Piero, I feel sublimely happy, for one thing, and the anxiety of the world and neuroses of the world and the rage of the world disappear. Why do they disappear? I have no idea. All I know is it occurs and it is palpable, and I am never as calm or as happy as when I’m looking at a Piero della Franceso.
You have lived as an artist for a long time and millions of people see your work every day. Do you feel that you are somehow on display with that work, or has time created distance between you and it? First of all, I don’t know if I’m an artist or not. You see, most people self-designate the fact that they’re an artist. And I always say, you know, there’s no entry exam for this. It’s self-anointing. All you have to do to be an artist is to claim it: you just say, “I’m an artist,” and there’s no way of telling if that’s true or not. Certainly you look at the work that people produce as they come out of school, as they pursue their career, and you discover that that’s not necessarily true. Only history makes that determination because people, enough people finally find this quality in the work, this quality of understanding what is real through art. So I have always considered myself someone who communicates through the vehicle of visual material. Every once in a while I hope that the work that I’ve done fulfills this other possibility, the possibility of seeing what is real and entering into the world of art, but whether that occurs or whether I have the capacity to do it is all an illusion. It will be determined many hundred years after I’m gone, and I feel that way of everything we see. What’s nice about being in a practice like design or illustration or the arts in general, is that you have a record of your existence - that you see the way you developed and changed if you do, and you see your own history in visualization. I thought that what was interesting in the show was the fact that I have work that I did 25, 30 years ago and I have work that I’ve done two years ago, and it’s interesting to see where they have changed and where they have remained the same or similar. I have really made an effort through my life to keep it moving, to not follow Picasso’s example that once you’ve learned something you can give it up. Milton Glaser: Modulated Patterns and The Piero Project will run through May 20, 2017 at the Binghamton University Art Museum. Admission is free. More info on Glaser and a vast collection of his work can be found at miltonglaser.com.
April 2017 triple cities carousel 27
“Matisse at Work� by Milton Glaser.
28 carouselrag.com
“Matisse at Work� by Milton Glaser.
April 2017 triple cities carousel 29
“Landscape From the Nativity” by Milton Glaser.
30 carouselrag.com
“The Victory of Heraclius Over Chosroes” by Milton Glaser.
“Adam Announces his Death” by Milton Glaser.
April 2017 triple cities carousel 31
“Piero Bather 2” by Milton Glaser.
32 carouselrag.com
Clockwise from top left: “Piero Bathers 1, 3, 5, & 4 � by Milton Glaser.
April 2017 triple cities carousel 33
34 carouselrag.com
art briefs BUTTERNUT GALLERY & SECOND STORY BOOKS: TWO SHOWS & A FESTIVAL
on plywood and cardboard, often using symbolism taken from Spanish-Hebraic mysticism and visions from his childhood. On Saturday, May 6th at 2pm, the artist will give a talk about his work in the Annex Theater behind the museum; doors open at 1:30pm. The exhibition remains on display through May 30th. Also opening on May 5th, in the 2nd Floor Gallery, is Bottoms Up, Binghamton! - an exhibit of glass beer, milk, wine, and water bottles from Binghamton’s past (on view through July 4th). The Bundy Museum of History and Art, located at 129 Main Street in Binghamton, is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11am-5pm. Admission to the Art Gallery is free. Further information can be found at bundymuseum.org or on the museum’s Facebook site.
The first half of the month Butternut features the ongoing exhibit Deborah Ross and Cate Gundlah: Watercolors and Fused Glass. Ross began her career in the ‘80s as a freelance illustrator for the New York Times and New Yorker. Traveling extensively, she uses her art to highlight the dangers of diminishing wildlife and habitat, and teaches watercolor workshops throughout the United States and Africa. Glass artist Cate Gundlah creates functional and decorative objects using a process that includes multiple firings to achieve a specific effect. Most recently she has been working with pressed flowers and leaves coated in glass powders and fired in the kiln. The show will be on view until May 13th. May 20th marks the opening of the ninth annual juried exhibit “Focus: Exploring Our Regional Sense of Place,” held in conjunction with the 10th Annual Montrose Chocolate & Wine Festival. Featuring a variety of genres, individual artists display work that reflects this region and what it means to them. The Festival, which takes place May 2oth from 2:30-7:30pm on Chestnut Street, affords visitors the opportunity to experience regional wines, gourmet chocolate, arts & crafts, winemaking demonstrations, and great music - all while raising money for good causes.
BINGHAMTON’S FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK
Butternut Gallery, located at 204 Church Street in Montrose, PA, is open Thursday-Saturday from 11am-5pm. Further information about the gallery and exhibit can be found at butternutgallery.com or by calling (570) 278-4011. Information about the festival can be found at chocolatewinefestival.com.
NATURE PHOTOS AT COOP GALLERY 213
Untitled painting by Corso.
On Thursday, May 4th, an exhibit by On display this month at the Bundy Museum. two well-known area photographers, Geof Gould and Bill Gorman, kicks off with Saturdays from 12-4pm. Further informaan opening reception from 6-9pm. Images of tion can be found at cooperativegallery.com Yellowstone captures in vivid detail the beauor by calling (607) 724-3462. ty and diversity of Yellowstone National Park as seen through the lens of Gould’s camera. ABOUT FACE AT BROOME In Conventional Beauty, Gorman focuses on COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL the beauty and complexity of single flowers Judith Present’s current photographic series and scenic landscapes, including views of the is all about faces: familiar faces, readable facShenandoah Mountains and Otsego Lake. In es, masked faces, unformed faces, and faces addition to the opening reception, a First Friwhose beauty can lead to disaster. The show day Reception will be held on May 5th from opens First Friday May 5th with an artist’s 6-9pm. The exhibit will be on view until May reception from 6-9pm. Also on First Friday, 27th. visitors can listen to live jazz by Jorden & The Wombats from 6:30-8pm, featuring Jorden The gallery is located at 213 State Street in Link on tenor sax, DJ Hendrix on piano, CaBinghamton and is open First Fridays from leb Dorwart on bass guitar, and Ben Telfer on 3-9pm, regular Fridays from 3-6pm, and drums. Art briefs compiled by Ronnie Vuolo: art@carouselrag.com
About Face will be on view through May 26th and can be seen Monday through Friday from 11am-5pm. BCAC is located on the 5th floor of 81 State Street, Suite 501, in Binghamton. Further information can be found at broomearts.org or by calling (607) 723-4620.
OUTSIDER ART AND GLASS BOTTLES AT THE BUNDY MUSEUM
A Journey in Art: A Retrospective - Cuban Outsider Art by Corso de Palenzuela opens First Friday, May 5th, with an artist’s reception from 6-9pm in the 3rd Floor Art Gallery. Born in Havana to an aristocratic Spanish family, at the age of seven Corso and his family left Castro’s regime behind to settle in the United States. The self-taught artist paints imaginative and idiosyncratic scenes
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo on May 5th at more than 25 venues throughout Downtown and the West and South Sides from 6-9pm (unless otherwise noted). In addition to the above-listed exhibits at the Co-op 213, Bundy, and BCAC, visual art highlights include Wax in Motion/Contemplation at The Gallery at 5 Riverside Drive/ Towers, featuring nature-inspired encaustic paintings by Danette Matteo. As part of the opening reception from 6-9pm, the artist will give a talk at 7pm in the River Room. Botanically themed mixed-media art by Lisa Dawn White takes center stage at The Goldsmith, on view through 8pm. Jessica Fridrich’s photography show, Elusive, can be seen at Anthony Brunelli Fine Arts, where it remains on display through May 27th. At the Salati Gallery is Trumansburg artist Kathy Armstrong’s show of new oil and acrylic paintings, Obsolete Machines / Resilient Nature, also through the 27th. And at the back entrance of The Forum Theater, art lovers will find a Pop-Up Art Gallery/Exhibit featuring the work of local artists in and on a re-imagined shipping container. As can be expected, Cinco de Mayo-themed music, food, and beverages will be featured at several eateries, including: Citrea Restaurant & Bar, with music by Sabor Latino from 7-10pm; The Colonial, featuring a Mariachi singer and a Mexican Pop-Up restaurant; Lost Dog Café hosting a Cinco de Mayo Party with DJ Eddie Fondu spinning underground Latin hits, Cha-Cha-Cha, Latin Lounge, authentic Mariachi, Cuban Dance Hall, and South American Funk, from 9pm1am. A complete schedule for First Friday can be found at gorgeouswashington.com. First Friday Art Walk is presented by Gorgeous Washington Street Association and sponsored in part by M&T Bank, Equinox Broadcasting, and Triple Cities Carousel.
April 2017 triple cities carousel 35
Mother’s Day Cheesecake & Wine Pairing May 13th & 14th Sat & Sun, noon-6pm Bring your Mom or your friends and experience five luscious cheesecakes pleasingly paired with five Black Bear Wines! $15 per person includes souvenir glass No reservations necessary
248 COUNTY RD. 1 CHENANGO FORKS, NY bla c k b e a r w i n e r y .c om ( 6 07 ) 6 5 6 - 9 8 6 3 Tue-Thur 12-6, Fri 12-9, Sat-Sun 12-6 36 carouselrag.com
food and drink. cious room. Her tables are on wheels, so she can move them around as the situation dictates. “Everything is designed to be flexible, and that’s really what I wanted.”
Michelle McIlroy, the Phantom Chef. Photo provided.
During Make Your Own Pasta Night, we worked at different stations, some of us making ricotta filling while others toasted pine nuts for pesto; later, some cranking out linguini while others hand-cut tagliatelle. The space allowed us to move around freely, and Chef Michelle’s culinary knowledge and intuitive pedagogy gave us the confidence to create an authentic product. “I never say that I’m an expert in one cuisine, but I can pull flavors from various cuisines, and bring them into the food that I prepare.” Her courses reflect this, and her enthusiasm is infectious. “In terms of preparation, I like variety. That’s what inspires me - that every day, I’m experimenting with new flavors.” She claims to not have a favorite region for food, though she did admit to being partial towards the flavors of the Mediterranean, which she highlights in one of her classes.
Phantom Chef
Her Kids in the Kitchen classes, for ages 8-12, are also taking off and filling up quickly. For her, these classes are about “getting them interested in learning to cook, and being in the kitchen and eating real food, and saying, it’s not so hard to make something from scratch, versus buying the boxed product, or buying the frozen product.” In terms of fostering healthy young people, this is invaluable. “I think that’s important, too, to get that word out that cooking isn’t that hard, if you learn some of the proper technique,” McIlroy reflects.
Tailor-made menus and culinary classes
As for the kids: “They were just excited to get in the kitchen and work.”
by Heather Merlis
Chef Michelle gets excited about whatever is about to be in season; that’s what dictates her menu. “As we get into spring, I look forward to doing fresh salads and grilled asparagus, and lighter food, and incorporating fresh herbs and tomatoes and strawberries, and things that are bright and fresh and seasonal in this here during the spring and summer.” She continues: “It changes, you know: in fall, I’m more excited about apples and squashes and pumpkins, and those flavors.”
I
RECENTLY ENJOYED fresh, homemade pasta in Endicott on a Saturday night. You could call it a Triple Cities tradition, except that this pasta (and red sauce, and pesto) was made collaboratively by a room full of friends and strangers, myself included. And it was delicious, thanks to good ingredients and the expert tutelage of Michelle McIlroy, the Phantom Chef. In her newly-minted space on Downtown Endicott’s Washington Avenue, Chef Michelle is beginning to expand the potential of her business and craft. Phantom Chef has provided catering to the area since 2009, but up until recently served exclusively off-premises. The versatile kitchen is providing a place for on-premises, smaller-scale catered events, as well as classes. Which is perfect, because in addition to being a skilled, imaginative chef, McIlroy is a natural teacher. “I love the teaching component,” McIlroy shares. “I enjoy sharing my culinary knowledge with others.” Her knowledge stems from a variety of places and experiences. “My family is from South
Africa, so there are different flavor profiles that I can bring based on the recipes that I grew up with. As I travel, and each place that I live, I see what’s out there and take from that and incorporate it into what I make.” McIlroy studied at the Culinary Institute of America and has a foundational knowledge of French technique, but there is a singular philosophy that guides her cooking and teaching: “I just believe in fresh food. You should be preparing properly, and preparing with fresh ingredients.” Chef Michelle has worked in food service since age 16, and always gravitated to catering. After several moves, she decided to finally start a business here, where her family is, and because she felt that this area, “needed something a little bit different” -specifically, a catering venue for smaller events that does not necessarily prepare “traditional wedding food.” Rather, she looks at all the pieces of the puzzle for each event that she caters: the people and their tastes, the venue, location, decorations, dress, the time of year, the style and feel of the event. Furthermore, McIlroy is able to borrow culinary gems from different places where she’s lived and visited, so a wedding menu may include anything from tacos
to lobster rolls. “I really take the input of the guests. I listen first, and then offer suggestions.” As far as generic catering menus go, “I wouldn’t want that for myself, so I try to offer to others what I would want. And that’s the opportunity to provide different stuff for your day.” With the help of Chef Michelle’s knowledge and experience, clients create the menu that they desire. In her catering as well as her classes, Chef Michelle enjoys variety. “Each menu I get to design, I get to plan, and then I get to execute. So, for me, it provides an ongoing challenge: what new menus can I design?”
Currently, McIlroy is looking to do more weekday catering, with hopes to elevate and expand these sometimes-mundane events. “If you have a lunch meeting, you can have a really interesting menu. You don’t need to have just sandwiches.”
She elaborates: “Someone may come to me and ask me to do something I’ve never done before, whether it’s an ethnic cuisine or perhaps it’s a dietary restriction, like vegan or gluten-free, so I need to improve my skills, in addition to providing what they need.”
Of her passion for cooking, Chef Michelle reveals: “It’s all about a continuous experimentation process.” Thankfully, she has structured her business so that, in literally catering to each client’s tastes and needs, she gets to do something new each day.
Her new space has helped her to better serve clients, as well as provide a unique learning and dining experience for her students. “It’s a very mobile kitchen,” she says of open, spa-
Phantom Chef is located at 49 Washington Avenue in Endicott. Call (607 )765-2408, or visit phantomchefcatering.com for more information on catering and classes.
April 2017 triple cities carousel 37
every wednesday at 8pm
concert series
5/3 Cannon the Brave
5/10 Chuck & Friends
5/17 Alex Creamer
5/24 Greg Neff
5/31 Andru Bemis
6/7 John Sonntag
176 Main St. Binghamton cybercafewest.com (607) 723-2456 open daily mon: trivia tues: open mic (5/2), karaoke (5/9, 5/16, 5/23), thurs: ugly dolphin, fri & sat: live music 38 carouselrag.com
food briefs Washington Ave. in Endicott; visit phantomchefcatering.com/classes to register.
10TH ANNUAL CHOCOLATE & WINE FESTIVAL
We’ll give you two guesses as to what this writer is eating and drinking while typing these briefs. The only wine & chocolate festival in Susquehanna County (and much farther, we’re sure) is in its 10th glorious year. Hosted in the historic town of Montrose, PA, regional wineries - along with vendors and local businesses - will gather to participate in a day that will make any sane person smile, and tame even the most stressed-out of our readers (and writers). Driftwood, Woodshed Prophets, The Bones of J.R. Jones, and Canary Circus will set the mood with live music. There will also be an art exhibit, a winemaking presentation, and a chocolate quilt raffle! So, to summarize: wine, chocolate, shopping, eating, art, music, learning, and winning. So, see you there? The 10th Annual Wine and Chocolate Festival will take place on Saturday, May 20th on Chestnut Street in Montrose, PA., from 2:307:30pm. Visit chocolatewinefestival.com for everything you ever wanted to know.
CAROL’S COFFEE & ART BAR IN OWEGO
It’s ramp season in Roscoe! File photo.
RAMPS GONE WILD AT ROSCOE BEER COMPANY
May is prime picking season for wild leeks, also known as ramps. The folks over at Roscoe Beer Company are celebrating the abundance of ramps in their own backyard with a Spring Flavor Festival and Market. Local farmers will be selling ramps and more; there will also be live music, vendors, craft beer, and fresh food for sale. Farmers and chefs will give presentations on harvesting and enjoying wild ramps. This event will be a lively celebration of one of nature’s – and Roscoe’s - many delicious gifts. Take that, trout! The Wild Ramp Fest will take place Saturday, May 6th, from 11am-4pm. Visit roscoebeercompany.com/events to RSVP, and for VIP access to the Farm-to-Table Tent. Roscoe Beer Co. is located at 145 Rockland Road in Roscoe, NY.
SIP AND SING WITH DANA LaCROIX
What happens when you mix karaoke, paintand-sip, and a Dana LaCroix concert? Sip and Sing, of course! The first one was such a success that Ms. LaCroix is doing it again
(if you haven’t seen or met her before, you should – she’s fabulous). Attendees will sing Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean,” Mavin Gaye’s “I Heard It Through the Grapevine,” and Ben E. King’s “Stand By Me” – three songs no one can argue with. Why are we writing about this here? Chocolate and wine, that’s why! And if you like chocolate and wine, read on… Sip and Sing with Dana LaCroix will take place on Sunday, May 7th from 4-6pm at Uncorked Wine and Chocolate Loft, located at 205 State Street in Binghamton. $15/person.
GLUTEN-FREE BAKING AT THE FARMERS MARKET
Two evenings of creative cooking will take place this month at the Broome County Regional Farmers Market. This time, they’ll be baking, sans the ever-notorious gluten (we still love the stuff, but appreciate that not everyone’s gut does). The baking will happen in their commercial kitchen, led by Judy Robiliotti. You don’t need to be gluten-free (yet) to enjoy making crackers, curry pancakes, and biscuits, and learn about how gluten affects the body. This is your chance to give up the gluten without giving up the goodies.
Classes will take place on May 10th and 11th (choose either!) from 6:30-8:30pm, and are $30/person. The Broome County Regional Farmers Market is located at 840 Front Street in Binghamton. For more information visit bcregionalmkt.com, or find them on Facebook.
PHANTOM CHEF GOES BEYOND GLUTEN-FREE COOKING
Readers may have noticed that, on just about every day of the week, there is something musical happening at Carol’s Art Café in Owego. It’s about time we share that they are so much more than a venue for live performances: they are a café with fresh baked goods, great coffee from Damiani Roasters, all kinds of good food (including ice cream!), and huge, gorgeous oil paintings hung all over the walls. And the art happens to be created by owner Carol Livermore, with the exception of a rotating gallery in the front of the café. If you haven’t yet visited, go - it’s a wonderful place. And keep your eyes open for more on Livermore – we’re not done singing her praises. Visit Carol’s at 177 Front Street in Owego, Mon-Fri, 7am-5pm; Saturday 8am-6pm; Sunday 9am-4pm. You can call (607) 6871436, or visit them on Facebook, but we strongly suggest going in person.
LAID-BACK ASIAN DINING AT BAO BAO
If you’re gluten-free (or not) but don’t like faking the gluten, Chef Michelle McIlroy (aka The Phantom Chef) will be teaching a Gluten Free Gourmet class on May 26th at 6pm. For $45 per student, she’ll lead preparation of a three-course meal that is naturally gluten-free. Nothing unusual, but something delicious even for those of us who still eat the stuff. Chef Michelle is a phenomenal teacher, and she’ll also be leading French Lessons (her French cooking class) once again on May 13th, also at 6pm, also $45. Her classes are filling up quick. The best part? Eating what you’ve made alongside your proud and peckish classmates.
If you’re craving sushi but aren’t in the mood for a full-on restaurant experience, or maybe you just want some affordable hibachi minus the pyrotechnics, check out Bao Bao Hibachi Sushi on Vestal Parkway. It’s no Kampai, but maybe that’s the point. It’s much quicker, and it’s pretty tasty. Our favorite thing there so far is the Hawaii Roll, a special maki that has pretty much everything you want in it. We were also impressed by the veggies that came with the hibachi chicken. The ambiance is just a step or two above that of a bodega, so it’s the perfect place to grab Asian food after working out (or lying around in your sweatpants).
Phantom Chef Catering is located at 49
Bao Bao Hibachi Sushi is located at 3721 Vestal Pkwy. East, (607) 798-1888. They deliver ($15 min., add $2. Hours: Sun-Thurs 11am-10pm; Fri-Sat 11am-10:30pm.
Food briefs written by Heather Merlis: hmerlis@carouselrag.com
April 2017 triple cities carousel 39
poetry.
THE POETRY OF MARYAM HAQUE Maryam Haque is a spoken word poet who is currently pursuing a degree in mathematics at Binghamton University. After stumbling upon the slam poetry club on campus during her sophomore year, she fell in love with the art, and with writing as a whole. She has competed in the 2015 College Unions Poetry Slam Invitational in Richmond, Virginia and 2016 in Austin, Texas. She was also one of many sacrificial poets at the Women of the World Poetry Slam in Brooklyn, New York in 2016. She hopes to release her first chapbook within the next year. In her free time, you can catch her binge-watching reruns of “Law and Order: SVU” and trying to get her cat to love her back. BECAUSE ONE OF US HAD TO SAY IT
If someone mentioned to you That I put a bunch of my poems together If these poems landed in your hands And you don’t know how to read it Because you don’t know If you’re allowed to know Intimate parts of me anymore If you did stumble upon them And you’re looking for clues In between my words That describe you That describe us That describe what we went through Then know this Know that all the coded language That my mind can produce Will never be enough to describe How I can’t wash off The traces that you left on my skin That I didn’t have to be a writer For you to be thumbtacked Onto the cork board In the back of my corneas That you never needed a poem To tell you that I still think of you Even when it’s too hard to Even when I’m not supposed to Know that even a year later I can smell your cologne Waft over from a stranger And wonder if you’re happy Or that I can’t take a sip of a Double whiskey and coke Without remembering how it tasted On your breath Or that I still have your bracelet And I now wear it on my bad days And remember how you were more Than just my first love We were never perfect Never set anniversary date Meet the parents Selfie ready We were chapped lip kisses Stale morning breath Snow covered roses It was never simple
40 carouselrag.com
Never healthy Never meant-to-be But know that for a year now I’ve been carrying around Pockets full of redemption For all the apologies you do Not need to give me And memories of you That my neurons don’t know where to place And pictures of us That I’m too sentimental about to destroy But too scared to go through And even though neither of us Ever want to go back to “us” again I have never stopped caring about you So if you’re reading these poems With the hopes to find traces of our love In my words Know that after all this time I still have daydreams of rolling over In the twin sized bed our bodies So gracelessly shared To the morning sunlight hitting your face Through my bedroom blinds To see your blue eyes And your tired and hungover half- smile And after all this time It still manages to make me feel whole again
DESPERATION
You are the greatest tragedy That this city has to offer tonight And there are scores of women Roaming these streets With your face Some nights You pray for love In a good man’s hands But good men don’t come by the dozen And when a good man asks you to dinner Before asking to see your bedroom You politely decline Instead, you cry in bar bathrooms Over boys who have long since Forgotten your name Who see you as a moment in time
And love Is a word you will never share with them Love is a name that good men Mistakenly label you with Love is a word he rinses his mouth with After kissing you Love is the wrong man’s hands Love is leaving Is loss Is a flight risk You only know how to love men Who are flight risks You are a flight risk for a good man Love is the phone number you only Know how to dial During last call Love is being plagued by The same man’s smile Every time you dream at night Love is cursing yourself for this In the morning Love is a misplaced apology Is a crime scene you keep revisiting Love is a footnote You are a footnote in another man’s Epic love story Goodbye is a word he uses as a chaser After drinking your love Goodbyes are all you’ll ever be good for Love led to your biggest mistakes To your biggest triumphs Love has left you Begging for atonement From a God you’ve stopped believing in Love is the biggest lie you tell yourself The man who smiles with too much teeth Makes you uneasy Because you see futures in his laugh lines Because his hands feel sturdy enough to hold Because the ridges on his finger tips Have already burned patterns into your skin But darling, That man’s kiss tastes like hope You can’t afford to have You reek of desperation, dear So the bloodhounds keep running
PREPARATIONS
Chrysanthemums and sunflowers If there must be a large elaborate funeral, I want chrysanthemums and sunflowers They’re my favorites He says, “Darling, you aren’t dying yet” And smiles Because it’s easier for him to pretend That I am pretty And put together Than to acknowledge that my apartment Smells like my already rotting body I know he can smell it Know that when he spoons me at night My hair no longer smells the same It smells like arson Like my body was doused in kerosene But he’s gotten so used to Pretending it’s okay That he can sleep with his head Pressed against mine
I know he can feel my charred limbs That he wakes up in the morning Dusts off the ash from his pajamas Like it’s normal And he makes me breakfast So that maybe Just possibly It’ll hide the smell of death Seeping out from me But he never lets me into the kitchen In case I found the knives Says, “delicate flowers like you Have no business coming so close to That kind of pain” So he spoon feeds me a balanced meal Every day Fights with me relentlessly But my body rejects the food Every time I keep explaining to him that there is Nowhere For the food to go That my organs have turned to ash and mold That they’re ready to just shut down He ignores me Throws the plate in my sink And tells me to jump in the shower Where he washes every nook and cranny That I have left on this body He washes the inside of my elbows Between my toes Under my breasts He scrubs and scrubs Hoping that the smell will go away I tell him that he’s just trying To put away a fire that’s already ablaze That it’s not worth trying He tells me to keep quiet Says, “pretty mouths like yours Have no business Speaking such nonsense” He dries me off with a towel Ignores the peeling skin that Litters the bathroom floor He then paints my face with makeup Puts extra moisturizer on first To hide the scars Searches the depths of my closet For clean, polished clothing to dress me in Staples a smile on my face So that way no one else knows We play this game every day He doesn’t know it But one night When the medication kept me awake I crawled out of bed And dragged my body to the kitchen pantry And there, Hidden in the back of one of the shelves, I found bouquets of chrysanthemums and sunflowers He knows the signs are all here.
Interested in having your poetry featured in an upcoming issue? Please email 3-5 poems and a short bio to: hmerlis@carouselrag.com
books.
Broken Ground
Karen Halvorsen Shreck writes on poverty, deportation, and finding home by Natassia Enright
(on loan from Your Home Public Library)
“J
UST LAST WEEK, according to accounts, a fog of prairie dust shrouded the Statue of Liberty,” writes Schreck near the beginning of her haunting, lyrical novel, Broken Ground. For twenty-one-year-old Ruth Warren, living with her husband on the oil fields of East Texas during the height of the Great Depression, it’s a blunt description of the dry, grimy, poverty-stricken reality she lives in. It’s also a running theme throughout the novel, however: the desperation of the Depression giving rise to a particularly virulent strain of racist, anti-immigrant nationalism. For Ruth, such concerns are distant. She’s a newlywed, and though she and her beloved husband, Charlie, are dirt-poor, they’re happy. She has escaped her oppressive father and spends her days washing and mending and teaching the local children to read; spare though it is, her life seems full - at least until tragedy strikes. Widowed, grieving, and alone, she flees back home, taking refuge (and escape from her father) in her job at the local library. But the library is more than a refuge: it - and the librarian, liberal-minded, fierce-willed Miss Berger - are a doorway for Ruth into a world she has never known. With Miss Burger’s insistent encouragement, she applies for, and gets, a college scholarship. More than that, however: when a group of black patrons come to the library to plead for help against the growing Ku Klux Klan presence in the area, she is exposed for the first time to the racial inequalities plaguing the country. When she makes the move to California for college, her first encounter at the train station is with a group of Spanish-speaking men and women being herded into a train car, and the officer escorting them - a man she describes as good-looking “…in a way I’ve come to think of as particularly Californian, handsome yet generic, like the Hollywood stars I’ve seen on cinema posters throughout the years.” He reassures her that there is nothing amiss, that the people are Mexican immigrants being ‘repatriated,’ that all is well. For the time being, Ruth allows herself to be reassured, but over the next year, she finds herself encountering more and more evidence of the brutal treatment of Mexican immigrants by the U.S. government. In des-
perate economic times, they have become a scapegoat for the country’s destabilized economy and endemic poverty, and sending them back home is widely agreed – at least among white Americans - to be the cleanest and simplest option. While Ruth befriends a man, Thomas, who teaches among the migrant workers and angrily objects to their treatment, she still clings to the lingering belief that the government knows what it’s doing, and that the treatment of migrants can’t really be that bad. College allows Ruth an escape from both the ethical questions that trouble her and her lingering grief over Charlie, but when a devastating betrayal by a beloved teacher strips her of her scholarship, she has no options but to go back home, or to flee to the only friend she has nearby: Thomas. To her surprise, he takes her in. To her greater surprise, she is also embraced by the migrant community where he teaches: Silvia, the heavily pregnant curandera, healer, who tends to the community; her husband, Luis; Daniel, a half-feral homeless boy. For the first time, Ruth finds a home - and in finding it, learns first-hand just how precarious life can be for those who live on the margins of society. While there are obvious real-world parallels to be made, Schreck is never heavy-handed or moralizing; the story unfolds naturally around Ruth’s growth as a character, both as she learns to cope with her grief over the loss of first her husband and then her dreams of education, and as she learns to open her eyes to the hardships experienced by Mexican migrants on American soil. The author’s use of language is rich and vivid, effortlessly evoking scenery from the gritty work camps in the Dust Bowl, to what Ruth sees as an opulent college campus, to the bright chaos of the migrant camp. The characters and relationships are well-drawn; even those who, like Charlie, have a relatively brief appearance in the novel are written as distinct individuals. As the readers follow the gradual expansion of Ruth’s world, it becomes very easy to love the causes and the people she cares for. Karen Halvorsen Schreck received her MA from Binghamton University in 1987, and her doctorate in English and Creative Writing from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Her previous novels include Sing for Me and While He Was Away.
April 2017 triple cities carousel 41
film.
Richard Gere in “Norman...”
MOVIE NIGHT AT YOUR HOME PUBLIC LIBRARY
Loving (May 16) – Richard (Joel Edgerton) and Mildred (Ruth Negga) Loving were an interracial couple living in Virginia who fell in love and got married in 1958. This 2016 drama is based on their story. They began their life together, but their marriage and the birth of their children were viewed with disdain by their neighbors, and the state of Virginia first jailed and then banished them from the state. They retreated with their children to Washington, D.C. However, they never stopped trying to get their family back to Virginia. Their fight to return home ended in the Supreme Court decision to rule laws prohibiting interracial marriage unconstitutional. (PG-13) Your Home Public Library is located at 107 Main St. in Johnson City and hosts regular movie nights throughout the year. Screening begins at 6pm and admission is free. For more information, visit yhpl.org
OPENING AT THE ART MISSION
After the Storm (open now) - This 2016 Japanese drama is about a past prize-winning author, Ryota (Hiroshi Abe), who now wastes all the money he makes as a private detective on gambling and can barely provide for himself or pay the child support he owes. After the death of his father, he attempts to turn around his life. However, his search for confidence and meaning in his life keeps
landing in dead-ends, and his relationships with his mother and sister are strained. He is also met with resistance by his ex-wife. He finally decides to take control of his life by becoming a good father and a true presence in his young son’s life and find purpose in this idea of family life. (PG-13) Norman: The Moderate Rise and Tragic Fall of a New York Fixer (opens May 19) – In this 2016 Israeli-American film, Norman Oppenheimer (Richard Gere) lives a lonely life in the margins of New York City power and money, a would-be operator dreaming up financial schemes that never come to fruition. As he has nothing real to offer, Norman strives to be everyone’s friend, but his incessant networking leads him nowhere. Always on the lookout for someone willing to pay attention to him, Norman sets his sights on Micha Eshel (Lior Ashkenazi), a charismatic Israeli politician alone in New York at a low point in his career. Sensing Eshel’s vulnerability, Norman reaches out with a gift of a very expensive pair of shoes, a gesture that deeply touches Eshel. When Eshel becomes Prime Minister three years later, Norman attempts to use his connection to leverage his biggest deal ever, but when those plans go awry, he finds himself trying to curb an international catastrophe. (R) Art Mission and Theater is located at 61 Prospect Ave. in Binghamton. Admission ranges from $7 to $10. For show times, visit artmission.org, or by call (607) 722-6914.
Film briefs compiled by Ilana Lipowicz: film@carouselrag.com
42 carouselrag.com
travel.
OFF THE BEAT A monthly look at quirky nearby people, places, and things by our own Felicia Waynesboro
David Lindow’s barn workshop. Photo provided.
OBSCURA DAY: THE LAST GRANDFATHER CLOCK WORKSHOP
M
AY 6TH MARKS the eighth Obscura Day celebration! It’s an annual holiday invented by the online media company Atlas Obscura, which features unexpected things to see and do across the USA and around the world - sort of an international “Off the Beat.” The day is designated for participating in unusual events in uncommon places. Maybe I’d rather attend the scavenger hunt in Beijing that day, or adventure with the Secret Joburg Rooftop Tour in Johannesburg, South Africa. Maybe. Well, yeah, probably. But, “Off the Beat’s” small radius encourages us to discover the wonders in our own figurative backyard, so I think I’d feel pretty good at the nearby Obscura Day venue in Lake Ariel, PA, about an hour-and-a-half drive from Binghamton. It brings a chance to observe, and even participate in, the craft process at the Last Grandfather Clockmaker’s Workshop event. The last crafter of “tall clocks” in the United States is reputed to be David Lindow. Hearing of the last grandfather clockmaker, you’d probably expect a quiet, wizened guy of advanced age. David is a strapping guy in his mid-forties who works from his barn and told me that, “One of the only downers about living in the middle of nowhere is that you don’t attract a lot of street attention.” However, the small team at Lindow Machine Works (lindowmachineworks.com) does attract a lot of admiration from lovers of fine craft through their manufacture of finished items and some of the machinery that makes those items. They also perform restorations. Most of the components of the clocks are fabricated onsite, and the company refuses to have any parts made offshore. Lindow apprenticed under clockmaker Gerhard Hartwigs, who has since passed away, and is, perhaps, eclipsed by his student. For Obscura Day, David promises a set-up of, “a very broad cross-section of things we do that people wouldn’t ordinarily see any place else.” There will be demonstrations of how the gears are cut, how shafts are turned, and all sorts of things on which most of our digital minds have lost a grasp. “My intention is to let each person have a chance to sit down at a rose engine,” he says (what a lovely name for a lathe!), “and turn something they can take home.” His fear is that even with a 20-person limit on event attendees, the four hour proceeding, which begins at 10am, may not afford enough time for everyone to finish a piece to satisfaction. “Everyone will get a chance to test out the machines, though.” This unique experience does not come cheaply; tickets are $75 per person. Visitors are welcome at other times of the year, but Lindow says, “When one comes to visit or tour the place, there are typically only one or two things set up,” so, for the love of horology, the Obscura Day event will be special.
EXPIRES MAY 31, 2017
For more event information contact David at dblindow@gmail.com.
April 2017 triple cities carousel 43
star stuff.
HOROSCOPES
This month, we call upon guest writer Carson McKenna for sage advice from the stars. She’s a crazy Cancerian whose passions include astrology, Irish whiskey, and movies where Molly Ringwald gets the guy. Taurus (Apr 20-May 20) Happy Birthday to the Bull! Taurus is undoubtedly of the “work hard, play harder” school of thought. You want nice things in mass quantity (luxury items just feel nice against your bull hide!). From the 1st-5th of May, you should be aware of a heightened sensitivity. It is an ideal time to explore spiritual thoughts, meditate, and get clarity on a problem that has long been plaguing you. Gemini (May 21-June 21) Gemini, you are the natural communicator of the zodiac. Nobody talks or texts as beautifully as you! Your changeable heart may be captured this month by a past lover with “unfinished business.” It is time to burn some sage and get rid of this ghost for good! A former friend may reach out as well. Exercise caution and be mindful of ulterior motives. Cancer (June 22-July 22) Cancers are moody Moonchildren with a deep attachment to home and family. Cancer crab protects its sensitivity underneath a hard shell that it carries around everywhere. You may find yourself acting out of character in pursuit of your professional goals. Advancement in your work is coming, but be careful that you don’t do it at the expense of your closest relationships. Leo (July 23-Aug 22) Leo the Lion is governed by the Sun, so there are no bounds to your warmth and generosity. You are the star of every room you walk in, and a natural born leader. This month, you should experience good fortune with investments, particularly in jewelry and art. Your good luck will manifest in your social life, and you should be enjoying a good deal of popularity this month! Virgo (Aug 23-Sept 22) Virgos: modest and meticulous are two traits you wear beautifully. Your attention to detail and perfectionist nature have never failed you, so far (psst— Beyonce is a fellow Virgo!). You may have been enduring a serious bout of worry and fear. Relax! This period is over, and cool confidence is setting in. Parlay this confidence into a job opportunity that you’ve been hemming and hawing over. It’s time to take the plunge! Libra (Sept 23-Oct 22) Libra, there is no one to rival you in charm and beauty! You are a natural diplomat who sees both sides of the coin. Friends and lovers are never in short supply for a Libra! This month is the time to get healthy. Go on the cleanse you’ve been talking about doing or enroll in hot yoga. Libra is undergoing a transit which will lend tons of energy to improving your health. Scorpio (Oct 23-Nov 21) Scorpio, you are the sign of great extremes. Sex and secrets. You are described as the perpetual Phoenix rising from the ashes, because after every fall comes an even better rebirth. Your stars are aligned for a month of financial prosperity. If you have an idea for a business venture, the ideal partner or angel investor is around - keep your eyes open for them! Sagittarius (Nov 23-Dec 21) You are the centaur, half-man, half-horse. Sagittarius is the sign of higher learning, and your mind will be concerned with “higher questions” of philosophy and theology. This month, you might decide it’s time to commit to someone you’ve been dating. If you’re already attached, expect a new dimension in your relationship. More than one opportunity is likely to surface, so embrace your natural luck and let it guide you! Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 19) Capricorn is the sign of the goat, which can survive on the edge of a mountain for years. This describes you to a T: you’re resourceful and clever and calculating, quietly plotting your ascent to the top of the mountain. You always put your work first, and this month it’s high time to tend to your heart. Your love life will become, shall we say, stimulating after May 16th. Be sure to make a move on your coffeehouse crush. The answer will be yes! Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb 18) As the water-bearer, you are a true humanitarian. A champion for all, not just the ones you know personally. (More U.S. Presidents have been Aquarians than any other sign!) You’re friendly, free-thinking, independent, and enjoy a healthy argument. Your forecast for May is a romantical one: If single, your love life will become a breath of fresh air after May 25th. There’s a possibility that two people will show an interest in you simultaneously. The person who wins out, however, will not only make your heart go aerobically fast, he or she will satiate your need for good conversation. Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20) Sweet Pisces fishies feel everything for everyone! As a Pisces, you are intuitive and wise, the one who quietly makes insights into your friends’ souls that leave them amazed. Contracts and communication of all types will be favored from May 16th-June 6th. You definitely have an edge in negotiation, so be sure to use it well. Aries (Mar 21-April 19) Headstrong Aries ram is determined to be first, and BEST not worst! Your home environment is where you should be spending your down time this month. Your soul needs to recharge its batteries, instead of chasing fire and excitement like you always do. There may be a makeover in the cards for you around the 15th, so take it, and pay attention to the compliments you receive. It may be time for Aries to adopt a new look!
44 carouselrag.com
Water Heaters lFaucets lLeaks lClogged Drains l
Furnace/Boilers lAir Conditioners lWater Softeners lKitchen/Bath l
We take pride in our work!
607-743-3111 24 hour service... call today!
fully insured
like us on
fun stuff.
HEY THERE,
B.C.
by MASTROIANNI & HART
HEMINGWAY! Have you always fantasized about having your words printed in Triple Cities Carousel, but were too afraid click send? Well, we’ve been thinking about you, too, you beautiful coward. Send your fiction, poems, ideas, observational humor, and whatever we forgot to mention to Heather Merlis:
DOGS OF C-KENNEL
WIZARD OF ID
by MICK & MASON MASTROIANNI
by HART & PARKER
hmerlis@carouselrag.com.
Let’s make some magic happen!
April 2017 triple cities carousel 45
directory listings. arts artsorganizations organizations BROOME COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL Where the arts mean business! 81 State St. #501, Binghamton, NY (607) 723-4620 broomearts.org TIOGA ARTS COUNCIL Inspiring & supporting Tioga County 179 Front St. Owego, NY 13827 (607) 687-0785 tiogaartscouncil.org
art galleries artstudios studios &&galleries THE SPIRAL IMAGE STUDIO Affordable abstract art for any space. 2328 Colesville Rd, Harpursville NY (607) 349-2760/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 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! FITZIES PUB Music, pool, and cheap shots! 9 Main St. Binghamton, NY (607) 217-5446 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
THE NORTH BREWERY Voted Best Stout in NY 1110 Washington Ave. Endicott, NY (607) 785-0524 northbrewery.com
CHROMA CAFÉ & BAKERY Artisan breads & pastries. breakfast/lunch. 97 Court St. Binghamton, NY (607) 595-7612 chromacafeandbakery.com
WATER STREET BREWING CO. Fresh. Local. Uncomplicated. 168 Water St. Binghamton, NY (607) 217-4546 waterstreetbrewingco.com
CITREA RESTAURANT & BAR Woodfire Pizza & Tapas 7 Court St. Suite 3, Binghamton, NY (607) 722-0039 citreapizza.com
carousels carousels ROSS PARK Undergoing renovations 60 Morgan Rd. Binghamton, NY (607) 772-7017 binghamton-ny.gov/carousels RECREATION PARK Round and round we go! 58-78 Beethoven Street, Binghamton, NY (607) 772-7017 binghamton-ny.gov/carousels C. FRED JOHNSON PARK Round and round we go! 98 CFJ Blvd. Johnson City, NY (607) 772-7017 villageofjc.com HIGHLAND PARK Round and round we go! 801 Hooper Rd. Endwell, NY (607) 786-2970 townofunion.com GEORGE W. JOHNSON PARK Round and round we go! 201 Oak Hill Ave. Endicott, NY (607) 757-0856 endicottny.com WEST ENDICOTT PARK Round and round we go! Maple St. at Page Avenue, Endicott, NY (607) 786-2970 townofunion.com
dance instruction dance instruction MANDALA BELLYDANCE & FLOW ARTS Classes/Fusion Bellydance /Fire & LED (607) 759-7551 www.facebook.com/mandalaflow mandalaflowarts@gmail.com
OWEGO ORIGINALS BAR & LOUNGE Music, pizza, drinks 25 Lake St. Owego, NY (607) 687-9510 Find us on Facebook!
PURELY TECHNIQUE DANCE INSTRUCTION Ballet/Contemporary/Jazz/Tap Dance 32-36 Washington Ave. Endicott, NY (607) 245-6366 Purelytechniquedance@gmail.com
breweries breweries
dining dining
GALAXY BREWING CO. Craft beers & great food in downtown Bing 41 Court St. Binghamton, NY (607) 217-7074 galaxybrewingco.com
THE BEEF RESTAURANT & PUB West Sides most famous red-meatery 62 Leroy St. Binghamton, NY (607) 779-2333 thebeef-binghamton.com
46 carouselrag.com
FULL BELLY DELI The only Boar’s Head deli in the region! 1550 Vestal Pkwy E #1, Vestal, NY (607) 754-3354 Find us on facebook! GROTTA AZZURA Late Night Pizza Delivery Fri.-Sat. 52 Main St. Binghamton, NY 13905 (607) 722-2003 grottaazzurraitalianrestaurant.com LOST DOG CAFÉ Global fare, specialty cocktails, music 222 Water St. Binghamton, NY (607) 771-6063 lostdogcafe.net VILLAGE DINER The best diner food this side of heaven. 255 Floral Ave, Johnson City, NY (607) 217-4134 JCvillagediner.com
dj dj services services PJ’S DJ SERVICE Any size party, any genre of music 20+ years experience! Binghamton, NY (607) 222-4757
men’s women’s hair men’s &&women’s hair care care DAPPER LOUNGE Men’s cuts and grooming 185 Front St. Owego, NY (607) 687-4323 thehaircolorcafe.net
HAIRCOLOR CAFÉ A beauty enhancement salon 185 Front St. Owego, NY (607) 687-4323 thehaircolorcafe.net ORION BEAUTY & BALANCE, INC. Hair, nails, body waxing, hair color. Aveda! 118 Washington St. Binghamton, NY (607) 724-0080 orionbeautyandbalance.com
home improvement home improvement BUTCH’S PAINTING Residental, Commercial, Interior, Exterior Binghamton, NY (607) 222-9225 MCCABE PLUMBING & HEATING All residential plumbing & heating needs (607) 743-3111 Find us on Facebook!
insurance agents JOHN BARBIERI Licensed State Farm Agent We buy gold and silver! 1115 Upper Front St. Binghamton, NY (607) 772-0068 john.barbieri.burp@statefarm.com
ewelers jewelers CAMELOT JEWELERS Coins/repairs/custom designs. We buy gold and silver! 48 Clinton St. Binghamton, NY (607) 722-0574
medical practices medical practices NY SKIN AND VEIN CENTER Natural good looks & healthy legs! 75 Pennsylvania Ave. Binghamton, NY (607) 201-1100 info@NYSVC.com
museums museums BUNDY MUSEUM Explore local Binghamton history! 127-129 Main St. Binghamton, NY (607) 772-9179 bundymuseum.org PHELPS MANSION MUSEUM Journey back to the gilded era! 191 Court St. Binghamton, NY (607) 722-4873 phelpsmansion.org ROBERSON MUSEUM Exhibits, Events, The Mansion, & More 30 Front Street, Binghamton, NY (607) 772-0660 www.roberson.org VESTAL MUSEUM Preservation and presentation of local history 328 Vestal Parkway East, Vestal, NY (607) 748-1432 vestalmuseum.org
music instruction music instruction BANJO AND FIDDLE LESSONS with Brian Vollmer Binghamton, NY (301)385-4027 banjoandfiddle.com brian@banjoandfiddle.com MURATORI VOICE STUDIO opera, art songs, musical theatre and more 155 Chapin St. Binghamton, NY (607) 722-0977 muratorivoicestudio.com
music venues music venues CYBER CAFÉ WEST Binghamton’s home for live music. 176 Main St. Binghamton, NY (607) 723-2456 cybercafewest.com
MCGIRK’S IRISH PUB Music 5 nights/wk. Curated whiskey bar. 1 Kattelville Rd. Binghamton, NY (607) 648-9988 mcgirks.com OWEGO ORIGINALS BAR & LOUNGE Owego’s listening room! 25 Lake St. Owego, NY (607) 687-9510 Find us on Facebook! RANSOM STEELE TAVERN Do some dancin’ with Ransom 552 Main St. Apalachin, NY (607) 258-0165 ransomsteeletavern.com 6 ON THE SQUARE An intimate acoustic venue 6 Lafayette Park, Oxford, NY (607) 843-6876 6onthequare.org TAG’S SUMMER STAGE World class concerts in the Southern Tier 3037 State Route 352, Big Flats, NY (800) 650-TAGS tagstickets.com
specialty specialty EUREKA CAMPING CENTER Find your next great escape! 625 Conklin Rd. Binghamton, NY (607) 779-2265 eurekacampingctr.com GARLAND GALLERY Custom framing, cool gifts, zany cards 116 Washington St. Binghamton, NY (607) 723-5172 garlandgallery.com
KNOW THEATRE Theatrical performances of quality & substance 74 Carroll St. Binghamton, NY (607) 724-4341 knowtheatre.org
video production video production STEPHEN SCHWEITZER Video production and editing (607) 222-9281 vimeo.com/stephenschweitzer stephen.schweitzer@gmail.com
wineries wineries BLACK BEAR WINERY NYS fruit wine. Stop by our tasting room! 248 County Rd. 1, Chenango Forks, NY (607) 656-9868 blackbearwinery.com SOVEREIGN VINES America’s only hemp infused wine (607) 203-1851 info@innovativebottling.com sovereignvines.com
yoga yoga studios studios YOGA BODY SHOP-JC Celebrating 10 years! 765 Harry L. Dr. Johnson City, NY (607) 441-YOGA yogabodyshop.com YOGA BODY SHOP-BINGHAMTON Our new downtown location 7 Court St. Binghamton, NY (607) 595-0659 yogabodyshop.com
ROLLING FIRE GLASSWORKS Locally owned smoke shop 300 N. Nanticoke Ave, Endicott, NY (607) 239-6770 facebook.com/rollingfireglass
performing arts performing arts ANDERSON CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS concerts, ballet, symphonies, dance, etc. 4400 Vestal Pkwy E. Vestal, NY (607) 777-2787 anderson.binghamton.edu ENDICOTT PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Non-profit historic community theatre 102 Washington Ave. Endicott, NY (607) 785-8903 endicottarts.com GOODWILL THEATRE SCHORR FAMILY FIREHOUSE STAGE Cabaret concerts, jazz, children’s theatre 67 Broad St. Johnson City, NY (607) 772-2404 goodwilltheatre.net
April 2017 triple cities carousel 47