Phillyist

Phillyist Reviews... Larry Kane's Ticket to Ride

Ross Currie — 2010-03-12T11:30:00-05:00

Artwork via Flickr user pinkisawayoflife

In 1964, Larry Kane was a young radio newsman in Miami who accidentally stumbled into a part of rock & roll history. When the Beatles prepared to begin their now-infamous 1964 U.S. tour, Kane wrote to Beatles' manager Brian Epstein to try and arrange an interview. Epstein, mistakenly thinking the letter came from one of the most important newscasters in America—for reasons best explained by Kane himself—invited the 21-year-old to accompany the band on the entire tour. Kane didn't want to, but as a young pup in the business, he had no choice—his boss made him go.

The rest, as we noted, was rock & roll history. The Beatles took America by storm, and Kane went on to become the preeminent newscaster in our city—not to mention author of two Beatles books: Ticket to Ride, which chronicles the 1964 and 1965 Beatles tours, and Lennon Revealed. This month, Kane takes the stories that began in 1964 and developed into an on-again, off-again relationship with the members of the Beatles for 25 years, and tells them firsthand in Larry Kane's Ticket to Ride at the Franklin Institute.

We attended the program last weekend, and expected it to really focus in on those first U.S. tours, but it didn't. Kane is a wealth of Beatles knowledge, and anyone with an interest in rock history will enjoy his insights into the band's rise and—well, the Beatles still haven't fallen, but breakup. Those who may think of the Beatles only as musicians may be surprised at just the level of debauchery they engaged in when they were those clean-cut mopheads, but then, they were 21 to 24-year-old kids at that time, so we shouldn't have been surprised. For those who idealize the Beatles as people, maybe you don't want to have your illusions shattered. (Paul McCartney "never met a woman or a mirror that he didn't love.") But for a very real glimpse into what those four guys were achieving—even though they all expected it to end at any moment—Kane's program is a goldmine.

If there's a weakness in Larry Kane's Ticket to Ride, it's the lack of a narrative focus. Kane jumps back and forth chronologically, and occasionally interrupts stories about one member of the band to talk about another one, then goes back to the original story with no apparent rhyme or reason for the interjection. If you're looking for a cohesive story, Larry Kane's Ticket to Ride won't give it to you. But it will give you vignettes aplenty, and a way of thinking about the Beatles that you probably didn't have before.

Larry Kane's Ticket to Ride runs every Friday at 8 p.m., and Saturday at 5 and 8 p.m. through the end of March. Tickets are $33.50.

Frugal Fun Alert: Weekend

amy — 2010-03-12T10:30:00-05:00

Fun around town, for $10 or less:

Friday:
Big Line Up for $7: The Parsnip Revolt with The Roddies, Hair Rocket, The Shade, Bad Doctors, and Duchampion at the Fire (412 W. Girard Ave), 8PM. $7.

Free Yourself: Inside Out In the Open, a documentary about free jazz at Highwire Gallery. With a performance by Sonic Liberation Front (1240 Frankford Ave), 8PM. $5.

Dance Dance: Sorted, brit-pop indie dance at the Barbary (951 Frankford Ave), 10PM. $5.

Saturday:
Mish-mash: Second Saturday on East Passyunk Avenue. Art exhibits on display at Sweet Jane Vintage, B2 Cafe, Black N Brew and Nice Things Handmade (East Passyunk Ave), 6PM. Free.

Man Vs. Nature: "Succession," artwork by Joan Wadleigh Curran opening at Seraphin Gallery. The artist combines natural and man-made objects to show the world in conflict (1108 Pine St), 6PM. Free.

Punny: Oh! Pears with Inlets and The Mural and The Mint at Johnny Brenda's (1201 N. Frankford Ave), 9PM. $10.

Sunday:
Games: Apparently Sunday is sexy game night. Porno bingo at 12th Air Command (254 S. 12th St), 10PM. Free. Kinky Quizzo at Valanni, (1229 Spruce St), 10:30PM. Free.

Sing For Your Beer: Karaoke at the The Abbaye, (637 N. 3rd St), 11PM. Free.

The Band With the Longest Name: Meddlesome Meddlesome Meddlesome Bells at the Khyber. With The Hush Now and Tunnels to Tundras (56 S. 2nd St), 8PM. $8.

Got a frugal tip? Send it our way!

CinePhillyist

Allison Krumm — 2010-03-12T10:00:00-05:00

Much went on this past week in the world of cinema. The Oscars crowned a new queen when Kathryn Bigelow beat out her ex-husband for both the Best Director and Best Picture Awards on Sunday Night. When we reviewed The Hurt Locker back in July, it seemed way too early to call it a shoe-in come Academy Awards time. But the traditional season of award-worthy film releases came and went, and it was still the best thing we'd seen all year. We had the good fortune of interviewing the future Academy Award Winners Kathryn Bigelow and Mark Boal way back in July when The Hurt Locker was first released. Now that you're a little more familiar with the product we were pushing, take a look back!

In addition to all the Red Carpet nonsense we somehow managed to squeeze in a Sunday showing of Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland. We hate to say it, but the critics were right: It's not stunning. The story is muddled, and the 3-D visuals, well, once you see the Avatar technology, it's mighty hard to un-see. Poor Alice just couldn't quite measure up. Bold acting choices (mostly by Anne Hathaway and Johnny Depp) fell flat all over the place and despite our immense love for the never-aging Crispin Glover, we really didn't buy anyone as who they were supposed to be (except for possibly Helena Bonham Carter). We wanted a vibrant and edgy Wonderland. We got a sad and droopy Underland. But on to this week's flicks.

Green Zone
Matt Damon and Director Paul Greengrass (is that a great last name or what?) re-team for a military thriller that resembles the Bourne movies, but just isn't as good.
Playing at... - Trailer - Reviews

Our Family Wedding
Two people with crazy families attempt to plan a wedding. We ever mention we like escapist films? This is so NOT that. (Disclaimer: this Phillyist's opinion is clearly biased given her current entanglement in the preparations for her brother's upcoming marriage.)
Playing at... - Trailer - Reviews

Prodigal Sons
A documentary about a set of siblings like you've never seen before. One is the grandson of Orson Wells and Rita Hayworth, adopted into a rural Montana family. The other is his little brother, who is now his sister. Directed by the younger sibling, Kimberly Reed, Prodigal Sons is a compelling peek into the life of an unorthodox, yet very real family.
Playing at... - Trailer - Reviews

A Prophet (Un prophete)
This Academy Award nominated French gangster film is garnering nothing but rave reviews as far as we can see. When the French get it right, they really get it right.
Playing at... - Trailer - Reviews

Remember Me
A role that calls for rebellious and brooding? Call Robert Pattinson! Remember when we expressed our skepticism that Zac Efron could actually act, but we were eager to see if it was so? Repeat that sentiment here. At least here he's got a great supporting cast consisting of the effervescent Emilie de Ravin, the underrated Chris Cooper, Irina Derevko/Lena Olin, and Pierce "James Bond" Brosnan.
Playing at... - Trailer - Reviews

She's Out of My League
Saw it, laughed at it, liked it, reviewed it. A modern romantic comedy with a retro vibe. Check back later for the full verdict.
Playing at... - Trailer - Reviews

The Yellow Handkerchief
Interest in one Twilight star is enough for this weekend. If we want to see Kristen Stewart pout across the screen, we'll wait until April for the Joan Jett biopic The Runaways.
Playing at... - Trailer - Reviews

Yo, Philly in the News

Ross Currie — 2010-03-12T09:30:00-05:00

A statewide child porn investigation has led to 44 individuals being charged. The defendants "[range] in age from a juvenile to a 70-year-old."
Local favorite business Tasty Baking Company—makers of all those delicious Tastykakes—has a new home, a huge bakery and warehouse facility at the Navy Yard in South Philly.

Vince Fumo's former allies are now supporting Pat Meehan—the U.S. Attorney who indicted Fumo—in Meehan's Congressional bid.
The U.S. Department of Defense has written a $3.4 million check to Philadelphia to account for uncashed wage-tax checks that have been lingering around since 2005. We know we'd leave $3.4 million sitting on the table for five years... (File under: Only in Philadelphia.)

Villanova fell flat on its face in the Big East tournament against Marquette yesterday. Hopefully, Temple will fare better when they begin their pursuit of a third straight A-10 tournament championship today against St. Bonaventure.

Today's forecast: cool, dreary, rainy. But at least it's not a blizzard.

Extra, Extra

Andrew Johnston — 2010-03-11T16:45:11-05:00

Photo by Flickr user Wesley Fryer

"Forget the dog, beware of the owner." That is what the sign on Old City gallery owner Rick Snyderman's door reads. Snyderman chased down a would-be thief and trapped her on a SEPTA bus. Her partner-in-crime is still at large.

Do you get news from Philly.com? Well, they have a message for you: they are aggressively investigating any instances of malware being distributed via their site.

Another area citizen is linked to terrorism. Sharif Mobley, the alleged al-Qaida member who tried to shoot his way out of a Yemeni hospital, hails from Atlantic County, New Jersey.

Forces are combining to form a unified front against the $.02 per ounce tax on sweetened drinks. The tax's negative effects will be far-reaching.

Think those bars that were raided got a skunked beer? We do too. More importantly, it seems, so does State Rep. Robert Donatucci. Dontatucci announced that the House Liquor Control Committee will hold a joint hearing regarding the raids. The hearing is set for April.

All silly puns on Armageddon or the apocalypse aside, this weekend's expected rainfall will pound the area with two to four inches. The heaviest rain is expected on Saturday. The rainfall will contain more water than any of the snowstorms we've experienced this winter.

City Paper Roundup

Jenn DiSanto — 2010-03-11T16:00:00-05:00

City Paper loves Conan, too! Meanwhile, the Franklin Institute's hawks love them some City Paper.

The Food and Restaurants column fills you in on a 110-proof herbal liquor created by Carthusian monks, as well as Philly Beer Week and PLCB raids.

Tim O'Brien Celebrates the 20th Anniversary of The Things They Carried

Colleen Clemens — 2010-03-11T15:30:00-05:00

I have a lot of friends who are writers. We don't agree on much. But we do agree on one thing: Tim O'Brien is a god. And The Things They Carried makes writers get down on their knees and bow to the prose that rules over the rest of us. If you haven't read this collection of short stories that follows soldiers in Vietnam, get a copy tonight and don't make any plans for the weekend. If you have read it, go back to it and re-read the water buffalo scene. I can't imagine you were able to ever get it out of your mind, but if you were, revisit this wrenching moment in fiction (or at least we hope it is fiction; O'Brien makes the reader question the veracity of the text for the entire book).

Then, once you have done your homework, plan on attending his reading to celebrate the 20th anniversary of this seminal work. O'Brien will visit the Free Library on Tuesday, March 23, so you have plenty of time to finish your assignment.

And let us know what you thought of the book. We love to know you are reading not only Phillyist on your screen, but also that you are reading the printed page as well!

Tim O'Brien and Twenty Years of The Things They Carried
Philadelphia Free Library, Central Library Branch
Tuesday, March 23, 7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $7 – 14

PAWS Dog of the Week

Ross Currie — 2010-03-11T15:00:00-05:00

PAWS is in constant need of support, both personal and financial. Click through for information on volunteering, fostering, or making a donation. If you have specific questions about fostering, you can e-mail the PAWS foster parent coordinator Robin at robin@phillypaws.org.

Gordon (ID# A09827952)

Gordon is a 12 week old red-nosed American Staffordshire Terrier mix who was found as a stray. Gordon is an affectionate guy who loves cuddling. He's also quite the playful one, and he enjoys his toys. Gordon is a young pup, so he is not yet housebroken or crate trained. He should go to a home that has experience with Staffordshire-type dogs and the patience to give him the training and upbringing for him to become a perfect gentleman. If you're interested in adopting Gordon, please note that you must enroll in a positive reinforcement-based training program before he goes home with you.

If you'd like more information about Gordon, e-mail alamond@phillypaws.org. You can find Gordon at the PAWS Adoption Center, which is located at 100 N. 2nd Street (the corner of 2nd and Arch). Also, make note of Gordon's ID number, and bring it with you when you go to the adoption center. Adoption hours are Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m., and Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Phillyist Playlist: Alkaline Trio, The Dear & Departed at the Troc

Allison Krumm — 2010-03-11T14:30:00-05:00

Alkalaine Trio Photo Courtesy Epitaph Records

Dear and Departed Photo Courtesy Equal Vision Records

Obviously influenced by The Clash and AFI (which totally makes sense because we've already told you about AFI's fresh take on the sound in "Veronica Sawyer Smokes"), The Dear & Departed rocks out their new EP, Chapters. "Matter of Time" reminds us of "It Hurts" from Angels and Airwaves. "Tambourine Love" makes us think something to the effect of: "snare, snap, clap—dance, dance, dance!" (For the record, those are both Good Things.) Okay, so it's kind of a silly lyric. But so is "Love Cats." The hook is good, and so's the bridge. We're already in the process of constructing a new sunny day playlist themed around "Tambourine Love" and fun.'s "Barlights." Anyway, if you're a fan of 80s Brit Pop-Goth-Punk and the products it spawned, you'll probably want to make your way to Chinatown tonight where the boys from SoCal are opening up for old favorites, Alkaline Trio.

The last time we saw Alkaline Trio it was with Saves the Day at Croc Rock. Despite being in Allentown, we're pretty fond of Croc Rock. (What? It has multiple bar areas and expansive floor space. Go see and then judge.) Perhaps it's just because it was drummer Derek Grant's birthday, but they absolutely killed their set there. To be fair, we've been listening to Alk3 for a solid decade plus now and we can't ever remember a show where they've disappointed. However, their seventh studio album, This Addiction has us a little torn. With thirteen tracks of "back to basics" (plus four bonus acoustic takes of "This Addiction," "Dine, Dine My Darling," "Dead on the Floor," and "Fine"), Trio almost makes us want to just go ahead and listen to the real old stuff, instead of the old-sounding new stuff. This Addiction just happens to be one of those albums that improves after a few listens. We're gradually growing attached to "The American Scream," and the synth-filled "Eating Me Alive." and we're hoping that old and new mixed results in the same great Alkaline Trio live set we know and love. We're pretty sure it will tonight.

Alkaline Trio with Cursive and The Dear & Departed
Thursday, 3/11/10
Doors 7:00pm, Show 8:00pm, All Ages
The Trocadero (1003 Arch Street)
Tickets: SOLD OUT! (off to craigslist with you!)

Presented By:

2010-03-11T14:30:00-05:00

Philahealthia: "Sweaty or Not, Here We Come!"

Jenn DiSanto — 2010-03-11T14:00:00-05:00

Phillyists Jenn (L) and Leigh (R) at the finish line; photo courtesy of Husbandist Don Simpson

As promised in last week's column, we come bearing the half-marathon rundown.

On Saturday, after our crack-of-dawn flight to Orlando, we checked in to the hotel and then hopped a bus to the Fitness Expo to pick up our race bibs and sweet Disney swag (goody bag, t-shirt, socks). We tried to mosey around the Expo (featuring vendors like Foot Locker to Nintendo Wii) to check things out. Us and about 2,000 of our closest friends.

There was no shortage of commemorative half-marathon merchandise, of course. This is Disney, they know what they're doing. More presumptuous athletes could purchase their "I Did It!" t-shirt before they actually did it, but we didn't want to jinx it.

Early bedtime was no problem after flying out so early. But it was still to our annoyance when the alarm clock went off at 3 a.m. To get to the race site, you had to be on a bus no later than 4 a.m. We are not morning people, and are particularly skeptical of morning before the sun rises.

We and our scowling faces got on a bus with 100 other half-marathon hopefuls, some of whom were "real" athletes—all energetic and bouncy. We hated those women. We arrived and walked around a mile and a half to the starting line. (Alas, this does not count toward your half-marathon total.)

We were herded into one of five corrals for a staggered start. Corral A started at 6 a.m., Corral B started seven minutes later, and so on.

Leigh was in Corral C, so she started at 6:14, and I was in D, so I started at 6:21. At that hour in Orlando, it was 42 degrees. A quick check on my iPhone told me it was 37 here in Philly. Awesome. Glad we went all the way to Florida for that.

It was mostly women gathered for the event, along with a few men secure enough in themselves to don a tutu for their princesses and join the event. In Leigh's corral were two gentlemen decked out in full Evil Queen and Malificent costumes, makeup and all. Something Leigh and I both noticed—there were women of all sizes, shapes, and fitness levels. Crazy athletes who were racing in costumes and fairy wings; big women; small women; it didn't matter. It was reassuring to see that it wasn't all super-fit women. Most of them were just normal women, just like us, which instilled in us a feeling that yes, we could do this.

Fireworks kicked off the start for each corral of runners, and so we began...

Follow the jump below the gallery for the rest of our story!

]]>Leigh
I waited in my corral and met two ladies that had done the marathon last year, one a former Boston marathoner, so it was nice to talk to people who actually knew what they were doing. They assured me that it was not only fun, but that the time just seems to fly by. I was extremely skeptical but enjoyed getting their take on the race and letting them calm my nerves. I decided that I'd start jogging and I'd see how long I could do it. Before I knew it, I was passing the mile three marker and figured if I could jog three miles, why not four? At mile four, my husband Don was on the sidelines cheering me on and taking photos of my sweaty marathon-ness. Soon enough, four miles turned into five, and before I knew it I was being heralded with my fellow princesses as I passed through Cinderella castle and into Frontierland. Mile eight brought husbandist Don again and with all the water stops and Disney characters along the way, it wasn't too long before I saw the Epcot ball. I swear, when I saw that Epcot ball, my heart grew three sizes that day. I was jogging a half marathon! I hadn't STOPPED jogging, I just DID it. This was crazy—I never thought I had that in me but hey, there it was!

Around mile 11, my feet and legs decided to try and detach from my body but I soldiered on. Promising my students I'd come back with a medal, I couldn't bear disappointing them or, most importantly, myself. At this point, I could practically spit on the Epcot ball, so it seemed ridiculous to stop now.

Crossing the finish line (in 3:15:17!) was very emotional for me. Michael Jackson's "Workin' Day and Night" was on the iPod and between that, the gospel choir, and the bleachers of people cheering us at the finish line, I couldn't help but shed a few tears and revel in the fact that I had done this. With the medal around my neck, I searched for my husband and eagerly anticipated Jenn crossing the finish line and celebrating our accomplishment.

Dear readers, don't think the completion of this marathon means that Philahealthia is over. Philahealthia is about lifetime fitness and reaching goal after goal after goal. The next goal for me? I've registered for the Philadelphia Womens' Triathlon coming up in July and am thisclose to registering for the Disneyland Half Marathon in September (complete with a sexy fifth-anniversary medal, as well as a special medal for doing two Disney races in a calendar year). I already have volunteers for running buddies, and because I know I can do it now, why not?

Jenn
I walked mile one to warm up, jogged mile two, and then decided to slow my roll and walked the rest, just in case I fizzled out at mile eight and couldn't finish. (Good thing, too, because around mile 12, in the early-morning sun, my body was not amused with me at all, and I faltered a bit. Thankfully, a number of friends/family were at their phones/computers, sending both me and Leigh kind words via text or Facebook, helping us keep going.)

Park volunteers were stationed along the course to cheer for you. You wouldn't think you'd care that strangers are cheering for you, but at mile 10, some random woman yelled out, "Good job, Jenn, you can do it!" and I almost lost it. I loved that woman. I loved the high-school jazz bands and DJs providing music and encouragement along the course.

Disney, to their credit, put a great deal of thought into where they placed the water stops. Right when we were thinking, "Gosh, I would love a drink right now," there was a water/PowerAde stop. There was one every two miles or so, and it was absolutely perfect.

Around mile nine, there was a water stop that also handed out Biofreeze for sore muscles, Tylenol, and flavored Clif Shot Energy Gel. I have to be honest here—I'd had so much PowerAde, as well as one of the extra-salt margarita Shot Bloks (designed to relieve muscle cramps), at that point that I was swollen up like Violet Beauregarde from Willy Wonka. Between the sun and the puffiness, I felt really sick, and trying to ingest strawberry-flavored goo? Not a good idea.

When I saw the 13-mile marker, I thanked every available deity and hustled my fanny into a jog so I could cross that finish line with pride. And cross it I did, at 3:33:58. A nice man put a medal around my neck, and that was it. I was a half-marathon finisher. (Lest I make it sound too easy, I didn't do anything for the rest of the day but lie in our hotel room and make fun of infomercials.)

All I wanted to do at the start of this was finish and get that medal. I didn't care about the time. I just wanted to not see Disney sweepers coming after me, telling me I was going too slowly and bussing me off the course. I didn't see any such thing. I always saw plenty of people behind me, even though I was walking. In fact, the last woman who finished the race clocked in at 4:03:36 which, if I've done the math correctly, is about an 18-minute mile. So Disney's not stupid—they want you to come away from this with a good experience, so you'll come back next year and fork over a couple hundred bucks to do the race. So they give you a little bit of a window on that 16-minute-mile pace they say you're "required" to keep. To be perfectly honest, I'm a little ashamed that I walked almost the whole thing. It doesn't feel as athletic as saying I RAN it. I know that's ridiculous—I completed it no matter what, but it's still nagging at me in the dark recesses of my brain, next to Kajagoogoo.

I'd like to tell you I have a next big goal in mind like Leigh does. I'm toying with the idea of registering for the Broad Street Run, and for SheROX Triathlon in Philly in August, but I haven't sacked up and registered for anything yet.

We're both definitely doing the Princess Half next year, and have already loosely assembled a Princess team of friends who've seen that it can be done, even if you're walking. What say you, Phillyist readers? Wanna join us?

]]>

Photoist

Allison Krumm — 2010-03-11T13:30:00-05:00

Click here to see full version!

Title: Lanterns
Photographer: xnedski
Location: Fleisher Art Memorial
Camera: Apple iPhone

Like to see your photo here? Submit it!

Conan O'Brien Launches Legally Prohibited From Being Funny On Television Tour

Andrew Johnston — 2010-03-11T11:30:00-05:00

Image by Flickr user stevegarfield

Team Coco is hitting the road this spring to spread laughter and cheer throughout the United States. O'Brien will be making two local stops: Tower Theater in Upper Darby, PA and the Borgata in Atlantic City, NJ. Various ticketing options are available—including a $695 meet and greet. Very tempting, isn't it? Tickets are on sale NOW.

Conan O'Brien's Legally Prohibited From Being Funny On Television Tour
May 30, 2010
Show 8:00 p.m.
The Borgata
Tickets $95.00-155.00

June 7, 2010
Show 8:00 p.m.
Tower Theatre (69th & Ludlow)
Tickets $39.50-695.00

Playlist Rewind: Jack's Mannequin at the Factory

Ross Currie — 2010-03-11T10:00:00-05:00

Photo by Allison Krumm (Phillyist)

When Andrew McMahon brought the Jack's Mannequin "Sing for Your Supper" tour to Philadelphia last week, it was clear that he's been running himself ragged. His show at the Electric Factory was one of the last of the tour, and McMahon's voice was desperately in need of some time off. Fortunately for McMahon, the legions of singing-along fans were able to pick up the slack when he couldn't quite reach the high notes.

What's impressive about Jack's Mannequin, is that—for a band with a still-limited catalog of material—we don't get tired of hearing the songs. As good as the Jack's Mannequin albums have been, McMahon is at his best performing live—even when his voice is hitting its breaking point at the end of a tour.

McMahon is now getting some much-deserved rest, and then he'll be playing some dates with Something Corporate, including the Bamboozle festivals in Anaheim and Chicago (but of course not the local-ish one in East Rutherford). No word yet on whether Something Corporate will come to our area—and, truth be told, we prefer the Jack's Mannequin material—but we'd be hard-pressed to pass up the opportunity to see the ol' band back together.

Setlist: Holiday from Real / The Mixed Tape / Crashin' / Spinning / Kill the Messenger / The Resolution / Hammers and Strings / Bloodshot / I'm Ready / Bruised / New Year's Day (U2 cover) / Miss California / Dark Blue / MFEO / Breate

Encore: Swim (McMahon solo) / La La Lie

Extra, Extra

Andrew Johnston — 2010-03-10T17:00:02-05:00

Photo by Flickr user The Other Dan

"If you don't like my fire then don't come around" is what Thu N. Nguyen was thinking when he burned unusable portions of marijuana plants he grew and cultivated. Unfortunately, a Monroe Township cop with a good sense of smell detected the odor and called in a bust. Police seized 1,064 plants and 50 pounds of packaged pot. Others were busted in similar raids throughout New Jersey.

Colleen R. LaRose of Montgomery County worked with terrorists to hatch a plot to kill Swedish artist Lars Vilks. Vilks, if you remember, was the artist who portrayed Muhammed in a drawing.

A Philadelphia City Council Committee approved a law that would ban elected officials from participating in DROP (Deferred Retirement Option Plan). The measure could reach a vote as soon as next week.

Travel Alert! Travel Alert! There will be a change to your commute starting on Monday if you take the Blue Route to I-76. Check it out and be prepared!

The Birds are making some waves. Today they signed free agent cornerback Marlin Jackson. Among the concerns with Jackson are both knees. He has torn the ACL in one of his knees each of the past two years.

Parking

amy — 2010-03-10T16:00:00-05:00

Photo by author

This past weekend was the first time in a long time when I was actually excited to head out and visit a park. And boy did I ever visit some parks! First, I trekked to Aviator Park at 20th and Race streets, outside the Franklin Institute and Moore's Galleries. I'll talk about Aviator in a week or two. Following that, I took a jaunt up to Franklintown Park, which is just underneath Spring Garden St and between 19th and 18th (map). Franklintown is a bit hard to find. It's hidden behind a giant condo building and as you walk down 18th street you cannot help but think that it must not actually exist because there is no way this giant building and parking lot are ever going to get out of the way. But then they do and there it is!

Franklintown is more unique than most parks in town. I say so because the park is mostly made up of a giant planter with what Philadelphia Public Art describes as big abstract rocks placed in it. The planter and rocks make up a piece called "Connections" by Athena Tacha, a Greek artist known for public art landscapes. Looking at the piece from the ground at the still barren end of winter does not do it justice. Nor does my photo above. Here's an aerial photo taken when plants were actually in bloom. Wow! Pretty breathtaking, right?

Cool conceptual public art aside, the thing about Franklintown Park that made me the most happy was that little daffodils were just beginning to peek out. No flowers yet, but there they were, getting ready to bring springtime to the world.

Upcoming Events in Parks:
Sweet, Sweet Fun:

Maple Sugar Day at Fox Chase Farm – Saturday 3/13, 12PM-4PM. $3 (map).

Rock!:

Wissahickon Geology. Take the kids to learn about the formation of rocks in the Wissahickon Valley. Meet at Valley Green Inn – Sunday 3/14, 2PM-4PM (map).

Get Involved:

Dickinson Square Park (map) Clean-Up – Saturday, 9 a.m.

Farmer's Markets:

Fitler Square (map) – Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Clark Park (map) – Saturdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Rittenhouse Square – Saturdays, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

If you know of anything exciting happening in your local park in the near future, please e-mail amy@phillyist.com!

Playlist Rewind: Michael Franti and John Mayer

Leigh Simpson — 2010-03-10T14:00:00-05:00

The February 21, 2010, John Mayer and Michael Franti and Spearhead billing was one of the best total packages I've seen in a long, long time. I wasn't familiar with Franti coming in, but after the first song I was downloading the album from iTunes. Simply put, Michael Franti and Spearhead are fun, infectiously positive and absolutely fantastic. I liked them because they're not the kind of band that acts too good for the room. I couldn't believe they were an opening act; it certainly won't be long before they're headlining venues and selling out shows on their own. The show started shortly after 8:00 p.m. and they had the crowd in the palms of their hands from the show's opening song, getting them to join in at every opportunity. As the show progressed, Franti jumped off stage, circling the venue with a video camera, singing with the fans and capturing it all on tape. I was sad when their set ended but at that point, I had their album on my iPhone and was already looking forward to my drive to work the next day. Michael Franti and Spearhead really impressed me and I'm so glad I got a chance to hear them—especially live.

When it was Mayer's turn to take the stage, the crowd was definitely ready and so was I. As I had mentioned in my preview post, I really only wanted Mayer to shut up and play guitar. I smiled inside as I looked behind me and saw a girl holding a sign that said "Shut Up And Play!" Phillyist clearly had an influence in the verbiage of her sign. Mayer opened up with the new single "Heartbreak Warfare" and moved through three or four songs before really addressing the crowd. The way in which he addressed the crowd that night was something most of us would not soon forget.

When I was in the photo pit at the beginning of the show, I saw Austin, a blond-haired, blue-eyed middle school student in the front row of the audience with his family who, after much publicity, we found out was from Vineland, New Jersey. He was holding a sign that said "Can I play "Belief" with you?" Around the fourth or fifth song, Mayer looked at this sign, talked to the boy and before you know it, the kid was sent onstage to play his favorite Mayer song with his idol. You have to see this. As a musician and music teacher, it moved me so much to see a rock star give back to one of his younger fans. I won't give the ending away, but Austin came out of the evening with more than just an awesome memory.

The entire show was fantastic. The crowd was great, the artists were amazing and that moment with Austin is something we'll remember for a long time. John, you may still be a douche when you talk to the media, but actions speak louder than words and that night reinstated our faith that deep down, you really are a pretty good guy.

Photoist

Allison Krumm — 2010-03-10T13:30:00-05:00

Click here to see full version!

Title: _l
Photographer: Ryan Strand Greenberg
Location: Philadelphia

Like to see your photo here? Submit it!

This Week In Philadelphia Theatre

amy — 2010-03-10T13:00:00-05:00

Photo by Flickr user albertopveiga

It is serious theater week here in Philadelphia. We've got plays about crushed dreams, tragic musicals, the aftermath of Kristallnacht, and Waiting for Godot. . .

Opening

Blues for an Alabama Sky - But it's set in Harlem. March 12-27. Tickets

Broken Glass - Paralysis. March 11-April 4. Tickets

By George - I think I've got it. March 12-20. Tickets

Carousel - You'll never walk alone. March 12-27. Tickets

Evita - Don't cry for me. March 12-April 24. Tickets

Peanuts and Cracker Jacks New Play Festival - Take me out to the ball game. . . March 12-20. Tickets

Take Me Out - Buy me some peanuts and cracker jacks. March 11-27. Tickets

The Smell of the Kill - What's the best way to fix a husband? March 12-20. Tickets available at the door.

The Story - Truth or fiction? March 12-27. Tickets available at the door.

Waiting for Godot - Nothing to be done. March 12-28. Tickets

Fallen Angels - Coward. March 16-May 2. Tickets

The Gnädiges Fräulein - It's absurd. March 17-April 3. Tickets

Red Hot Patriot: The Kick-Ass Wit of Molly Ivins - Kathleen Turner live onstage. March 19-April 18. Tickets

UP! - Fly away on a lawnchair. March 16-April 4. Tickets

Continuing

The Frog Prince - Sometimes you have to a kiss a frog. March 2-14. Tickets

The Play's the Thing - Love, confusion, farce. February 26-March 14. Tickets

Pyretown - The joys of the American healtchcare system. February 25-March 14. Tickets

Romeo and Juliet - Tragic love for the ages. February 25-April 11. Tickets

Look Mom, I'm Swell - Music to every mother's ears. February 25-March 14. Tickets

Elliot, a Soldier's Fugue - To return to Iraq or not return to Iraq? February 23-March 14. Tickets

No Exit - Hell is what, again? February 11-March 13. Tickets

Respect: A Musical Journey of Women - Women's history through pop songs. January 27-April 18. Tickets

Blue Door - Cross the threshold. January 14-March 21. Tickets

The Irish. . .and How They Got That Way - By being born in Ireland? January 7-April 18. Tickets

Tony and Tina's Wedding - This is still running??? Open-ended run. Tickets

ComedySportz - Its name says it all. Open-ended run. Tickets

The N Crowd - Philly style improv. Open-ended run. Tickets

Any Given Monday - Monday, Monday. . . March 3-27. Tickets

25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee - If you like to spell. March 3-28. Tickets

Arsenic and Old Lace - Care for some wine? March 5-April 3. Tickets

Happily Ever After - Even princesses grow old. March 4-28. Tickets

King Lear - Howl, howl, howl, howl! March 3-28. Tickets

Language Rooms - You're being watched. March 3-April 4. Tickets

Noises Off - Nothing on. March 4-21. Tickets

The Rear Column - Soldiers in Africa. March 4-21. Tickets

Rent - 525,600 minutes. March 3-April 11. Tickets

Charlotte's Web - Some pig. March 6-April 17. Tickets

The Countess - Scandal. March 5-21. Call 215-843-1109 for tickets.

Putting on a show? Send us an email or leave a note in the comments!

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PW Run Down

Andrew Goodman — 2010-03-10T10:30:00-05:00

This week, Philadelphia Weekly is diggin' on swine. PW presents its pork issue, an in-depth look at the wonders of "the other white meat," the best local places to sample said wonders, and tips and tricks on how to recreate these wonders in your own kitchen. As it turns out, there is a lot more to this wondrous animal than the tough dry pork chops we used to eat as kids. If we see mini pig farms sprouting up in Fishtown backyards in place of the usual chicken coops, we'll know who to blame. Excuse us if we get some drool on you during this post.

You mean you didn't know that Philly was known as "The City of Pig Head-Cheese Tacos" before you moved here? Well, according to this description of this South Philly Tap Room dish, perhaps it should be. I know PW sometimes gets a hard time for its food reviews, but this list of local swine treasures is legit.

I can make my own bacon? I'm officially never leaving the house again.

National Mechanics gets a nod for its bacon bloody marys. If that's not the right complement to your eggs, check out these other great local pairings.

Meet Abdullah Saeed, a local Muslim who recently tasted the forbidden pig fruit and hasn't turned back. Thankfully, we all reap the benefits through his blog, Adventures in Pork, in which he takes us through all his pork cherry-popping experiences.

Wait, there was more to this week's PW than pig news? Okay fine, we'll talk about that too. Who knew Philly Weekly had such awesome celebrity guest columnists? Henry Rollins and Ed Helms weigh in this week, giving dating advice and a capella pointers.

Sorry, there's more in this issue, but we're too distracted by the thoughts of smoked pork belly to focus anymore. Off to John's Roast Pork we go.

Extra, Extra

Andrew Johnston — 2010-03-09T17:15:37-05:00

Image courtesy Flickr user Phillybits, with permission

A train derailed this morning in Center City near 23rd and Vine Streets. Phillyist friend, Phillybits, gathered some photos (including the photo above) of the workers attempting to put the train back on the rails this morning. You can see the rest of his stream here. That was before they dropped it and had to start over again.

In other railway news, a trolley collided with a car this afternoon along Girard Avenue. Seven people were injured.

The State of New Jersey is pushing to have the seven state troopers accused of a gang-rape identified. We couldn't agree more. These "protectors" of the law need to be identified and properly dressed down by the public just like every other accused rapist.

John Fry is expected to be named as the next president of Drexel University. Fry is currently the president of Franklin and Marshall College and was a former executive at the University of Pennsylvania.

The Philadelphia Eagles made a move, receiving an undisclosed draft pick in the 2011 NFL Draft from the Tampa Bay Buccaneersin exchange for under-performing wide receiver Reggie Brown. Peace out, Reg.

PAWS Cat of the Week

Ross Currie — 2010-03-09T15:00:00-05:00

Dondy (ID# A09610710)

Dondy is a sweet young boy, 6 to 12 months old. He ended up with PAWS because his owner sadly passed away. He's a friendly guy, but a little nervous in the busy adoption center environment. When you walk by his cage, he'll paw and meow at you to get your attention. He loves to play and be pet; if you try to pick him up, be aware that he will cling to you. Dondy is hoping to find his forever home soon...who knows? Maybe it's yours.

If you'd like more information about Dondy, e-mail alamond@phillypaws.org. You can find Dondy at the PAWS Adoption Center, which is located at 100 N. 2nd Street (the corner of 2nd and Arch). Also, make note of Dondy's ID number, and bring it with you when you go to the adoption center. Adoption hours are Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m., and Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Presented By:

2010-03-09T15:00:00-05:00

Photoist

Allison Krumm — 2010-03-09T13:30:00-05:00

Click here to see full version!

Title: Hang Man
Photographer: Paul Drzal
Location: South Philadelphia
Camera: Canon

Like to see your photo here? Submit it!

Mor Chikin Sammiches Plz!

miss bee — 2010-03-09T12:00:00-05:00

There's a Chick-fil-a opening up in Port Richmond (at 2301 E Butler Street) and a year's supply of free chicken and pickles and waffle fries could be yours if you care enough to stand in line for coupons on Thursday at 6 a.m. In a tradition that started in 2003 at the Grand Opening of a store in Goodyear, Arizona, all brand spankin' new Chick-fil-a's now run a "First 100" promotion. Winners will receive 52 coupons for a free chicken little combo meal for the next year. We feel these things tend to bring out the crazy in people, so go forth with your roller derby helmets and knee pads and claim your chicken!

Update: We may have given you the false impression that you can just show up Thursday at 6 a.m. for your year's worth of sammiches. Well, it turns out going on Thursday might not do you much good. No, you may have to be there really early—6 a.m. tomorrow. Registration for the First 100 promotion will open up at 6 a.m. tomorrow (24 hours before the store actually opens), and then you have to hang around there for a full day; if you leave (except for "short restroom breaks"), you get nothing, you lose. So the question is, how much do you love that chikin? [Hat tip: @eedawson]

Get Chlamydia!

Jillian Ashley Blair Ivey — 2010-03-09T11:30:00-05:00

Image courtesy Meghann Williams

Remember Gigi Naglak and Meghann Williams, the two ladies who gave you such great Valentine's Day advice? Well, they're back, and ready to give you chlamydia ... Chlamydia Dell'Arte, that is! Their sex-ed cabaret was such a hit at the Fringe Festival (check out our impressions here) that Gigi and Meg are bringing it back for an encore run this week ... and they want one lucky Phillyist reader to join them. Enter to win a pair of tickets below by noon tomorrow (Wednesday, March 10) and you'll get a chance to see either the Wednesday or Thursday show. Trust us: you don't want to miss it.

Chlamydia Dell'Arte: The Flare-Up
March 9-13, 7 p.m.; March 12-13, 10 p.m.
The Second Stage at the Adrienne (upstairs at 2030 Sansom Street)
$15 (groups of 10 or more, $10 each)
Ticket reservations (or win a pair below!)

Note: If you win, you will receive an email from the Phillyist staff by 2 p.m. on Wednesday, March 10. Be sure to check your spam filter to ensure receipt, and please confirm your show selection at the ticket reservation address above. Thanks for entering and good luck!

Phillyist Hearts Missed Connections

amym — 2010-03-09T11:00:23-05:00

Photo by Flickr user A National Acrobat

Yeah ... Cause if we know smokin' hot girls (and we DO), they will totally respond to anonymous craigslist posts left by 40 year old men who use the term "smokin' hot." Smokin' hot girls LOVE that kind of thing.

This is a grown up version of writing to Santa...only instead of writing to a made-up fat man in the North Pole and asking for toys, this girl is writing to internet.

This man wants the bartender at Hooters to respond to this post by telling him what she was wearing the day he met her so he can be sure that it's really her. This would be a good idea if the girls at Hooters didn't wear uniforms. Or if girls who work at Hooters got less than one hundred million guys hitting on them a day.

For all those interested in dating a schizophrenic, here is a great link to get you started.

It has been my experience that if you meet a man in Jo-Ann Fabrics store there's a good chance he's not there to pick up chicks. I might also add that if you end up dating him, you are most likely going to come home one night and find him putting things in your roommate. Your male roommate.

The post is coming from INSIDE THE HOUSE!

And so with keeping with wrapping up with love found in the supermarket, we bring you this. What can we say? We've go a soft spot for goo-goo eyes made over produce.

So, until next week, stay classy, Philadelphia!

Phillyist Playlist: Jarrod Gorbel at World Cafe Live

Ross Currie — 2010-03-09T10:15:00-05:00

When Jarrod Gorbel decided to put an end to his band, The Honorary Title, last fall, we were a little confused—and miffed. Title had put out one of this Phillyist's favorite albums (ever), and were one of our must-see live bands. The music and lyrics for the band's songs were really Gorbel's, so even though Title is no more, we're still getting new music with the sound that we'd come to know and love from them—in the form of Gorbel's solo work.

Gorbel's solo EP, Ten Years Older, gives us a taste of what to expect from his upcoming solo full-length album, Devil's Made a New Friend. The sound is decidedly familiar to those who knew The Honorary Title, but with less rock and more Americana/folk influence. It's the sound that always anchored Title's music, but now it is the focal point for listeners.

We're huge fans of just about everything that Gorbel does musically, so we can't wait to see him at our favorite place, World Cafe Live, tomorrow night, to hear both stripped-down Title songs and new cuts from one of music's top under-the-radar talents.

Jarrod Gorbel, with Val Emmich
Weds., 3/10/10
8 p.m.
World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St.
Tickets: $15 in advance, $17 at the door

Yo, Philly In the News

amy — 2010-03-09T09:00:00-05:00

Photo by Flickr user poolie

A 30 year old man was shot on McKean St in South Philly early Monday evening. The shooting comes on the heels of another in the area early Sunday morning. Lt. Frank Vanore summed up the situation concisely by saying "they've been having some problems in that neighborhood." Indeed.

Olney High School may be renamed for Joaquin Rivera, a local activist and musician. Rivera died in November while awaiting treatment at Aria Health in Frankford.

The more soda costs you, the less you are likely to drink it, a study published Monday found. The study was released just after Mayor Nutter proposed a 2 cents per ounce tax on soda.

Six women in NJ are recovering in the hospital after doctors put caulk in their butts. The women saw unlicensed practitioners, who, instead of using silicone made for injecting into butts, used the stuff commonly used to repair bathtubs. Yikes.

Hey! We're good at something! Real Simple magazine ranked Philly the 12th top time-saving city in the country. Criteria included ease of getting around, health and safety, and "green time-savers."

Today is going to be another beautiful day, with temperatures in the upper 50s. Enjoy it while you can folks, rain is predicted for the weekend.

Extra, Extra

Ross Currie — 2010-03-08T16:45:00-05:00

Photo by Flickr user jmtimages

President Obama was in the area today, speaking at Arcadia University. We bet you'll never guess what the subject of his talk was. Give up? Health care reform.

The DN has a feature on the total hosejob the PLCB put on three Local 44, Memphis Taproom, and Resurrection Alehouse (as we reported on Friday).

A 14-year-old girl is among a group of people charged today in the gruesome murders of a South Jersey couple on February 22.

In Allentown, jury selection occurred today in the civil lawsuit against Charles Cullen, a former nurse who admitted to killing 29 patients. (The suit was brought by the families of eight of Cullen's victims.) Trial begins tomorrow.

The Eagles aren't going to release Michael Vick, as reports indicate that the team will pay Vick a $1.5 million roster bonus due tomorrow. The Birds will either hold on to Vick, or shop him in the trade market.

In other Eagles news, the team signed wide receiver Jason Avant to a five-year deal worth up to $18 million.

Shane Victorino ruminates on his new lineup spot, the seven-hole.

Show Your Philly Pride...In a Car?

melissa shae — 2010-03-08T14:45:00-05:00

Remember the Ford Fiesta? Ford's small car that was popular in the 80s? Well, today the Ford Fiesta looks much different and four local Philadelphians want to tell you about it. They are doing it in a cool way too. That's because they are part of the second installment of the Ford Fiesta Movement - a social media initiative using tools like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube to tell a story and create excitement about the new Fiesta.

Picked from more than 1,000 applicants, Team Philadelphia and Team Philly are two of the 20 teams from cities across the country. Team Philadelphia is represented by Geekadelphia. A popular Philly blog for all things—you guessed it—geek related. Michaelangelo Ilagan and Tim Quirino aren't strangers to the online Philadephia community. From web design to cars and food, this team is ready to take their tweets to the streets and represent Philly.

Team Philly is represented by Move to Philly. Laris Kreslins and Kendra Gaeta are experienced in all things creative. Laris was the brains behind the Toyota Yaris DIY launch while Kendra works in advertisting and has a strong passion for the art and music community.

Both teams will complete a series of missions to get Philly pumped about the new Fiesta, which comes out this summer. All of it is put online so that you can view and vote. Their first mission is to find 10 awesome locations in Philadelphia, create a mural in one of those locations, and host a party to celebrate it.

Philly, we're asking for your help:

Follow the teams

Watch their videos

Click on their Flickr pictures

Heck, even try to make it out to some of their cool events

The winner of the movement gets a free Ford Fiesta.

So, why should you do it? Cause we're effing Philly. It's what we do. We get behind our teams, our celebrities, and even our Ford Fiesta agents and we make them stars. Show us how it's done, Philly.

]]>

Frugal Fun Alert: Week of March 8, 2010

amy — 2010-03-08T14:00:00-05:00

Fun around town, for $10 or less:

Monday:
Danger: Know Nothing Party and Oicho Kabu at Danger Danger Gallery (5013 Baltimore Ave), 8PM. $5-$10.

Wild: Movie Monday screens Where the Wild Things Are at the Balcony (1003 Arch Street), Doors at 6PM, film at 7PM. $3.

Calm Down: Simply Meditate class at Amitayus Buddhist Center (814 Chestnut St), 7PM. $8.

Tuesday:
Electronic: Broketronic, an electronic music part at M Room (15 W. Girard Ave), 9PM. $5.

Quizzo: At Fergies (1214 Sansom St), 9PM and Bards (2013 Walnut St), 10PM. Both free.

Wednesday:
French Clowning: Mr. Hulot's Holiday at Ritz at Bourse (400 Ranstead St), 1:10PM, 4PM, 7PM, and 9:35PM. $6.

Rubbery: Artist Chakaia Booker discusses her work at Moore College of Art and Design. Booker currently creates sculptures from rubber tires. (20th St and the Parkway), 6PM. Free.

Making: Open house at Hive 76. Work on a project, eat some pizza. (915 Spring Garden St), 8PM. Free.

Thursday:
It's a Drag: Martha Graham Cracker Caberet at L'Etage (624 S. 6th St), 8PM. $10.

Thunder and Lightning: Controlled Storms at the Khyber. With Kuan, Most Ghosts, and Dante Bucci (56 S. 2nd St), 9PM. $8.

Live Arts:Philadelphia Live Arts Festival 2nd Thursdays series. This month's event features performances from Charlotte Ford, Megan Mazarick, and Kathryn Tebordo (919 N. 5th St), 7PM. Free. Free beer too!

Got a frugal tip? Send it our way!

Photoist

Allison Krumm — 2010-03-08T13:30:00-05:00

Click here to see full version!

Title: {56.365} Deep, Dark, Truthful Mirror
Photographer: Patrick Wittwer
Location: PYT at the The Piazza
Camera: Kodak DX7440 Zoom

Like to see your photo here? Submit it!

TelePhillyist

Jenn DiSanto — 2010-03-08T10:00:00-05:00

Photo by Flickr user angelrravelor

What's new and/or interesting in TV this week.

How I Met Your Mother (Mon., 8 p.m.-8:30 p.m., CBS)
Tonight's super guest star is Jennifer Lopez, playing a self-help author. Not that we're not loving the celebrities and all, but the show is still good with just the regular cast.

The Big Bang Theory (Mon., 9:30 p.m.-10 p.m., CBS)
The men find a ring from the Lord of the Rings films at a garage sale. The episode is titled "The Precious Fragmentation." This should be high comedy.

LOST (Tues., 9 p.m.-10 p.m., ABC)
Starting this week, there are only 10 episodes left. Dun dun DUN! This episode looks like it's going to focus on Ben, which is fabulous. We've missed his deranged antics.

Grey's Anatomy (Thurs. 9 p.m.-10 p.m., ABC)
We'll finally get to see more from Bailey and random "gas man" Ben. It's about time Bailey got some lovin', bring it!

Private Practice (Thurs. 10 p.m.-11 p.m., ABC)
Tonight's episode continues three love triangles: Sam/Addison/Vanessa, Cooper/Sheldon/Charlotte, and Naomi/William/Gabriel. Exhausting. But we still hold out hope for more Sam/Addison kissing. Hot. Just sayin'.

30 Rock (Thurs. 9:30 p.m.-10 p.m., NBC)
Finally, it's back with a new episode! Liz meets her "future husband" at the dentist's office.

If we're not talking about what you're watching, leave a comment!

Phillyist Mini-Playlist: Five Local Acts at Drexel

Jillian Ashley Blair Ivey — 2010-03-05T16:45:00-05:00

We'd be remiss in not mentioning that five local acts, three of whom (Matt Duke, Liam and Me, and Good Old War) are quite popular on Phillyist, will be playing a show at Drexel's Mandell Theater tomorrow night at 7 p.m. (The other two acts on the bill are The Swimmers and Andrew Lipke.) Tickets are free for Drexel students or $10 for the general public and can be purchased at the door. For more information, call 215.895.ARTS.

Presented By:

2010-03-05T16:45:00-05:00

Phillyist Playlist: Puscifer at the TLA

Allison Krumm — 2010-03-05T16:45:00-05:00

Photo by Isaac Brekken, courtesy Speakeasy PR

Maynard James Keenan is a renaissance man. A military musician rebel artist. A foodie with a vineyard and winery. A comedian. A ninja trained in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Just your average, all-round international man of mystery. With no less than three bands to his name, it's pretty safe to say Mr. James Keenan (no offense to the moniker "Maynard," but Phillyist likes his real name, yes we do) knows his way around some song-writing. In fact, he's been critically acclaimed for exactly that.

Whereas the music and lyrics of Tool are extremely complex, meticulously thought-out metaphorical concoctions, Puscifer is mind-dump. A self-proclaimed "island of misfit ideas who've found no home with Tool, A Perfect Circle, or Caduceus" (his winery). Essentially a solo project, "rotating members" include (but certainly aren't limited to): model/actress Milla Jovovich, Danny Lohner, Lisa Germano, Primus drummer Tim Alexander, basically whomever Maynard decides would be fun to collaborate with at any given moment.

And then there's the stage show: When performing with Tool, Keenan is well-known to stay flirt with the dark areas of the stage and perform to the rear rather than out to the audience, due to the intense and sometimes extremely personal nature of the music. Puscifer's not nearly that serious. It's free-form provocative audio-visual madness. But madness in a good way. Less scary clown/creepy circus, more trippin' on mushrooms, having an ear-gasm, feelin' mighty fine.

Granted, Puscifer may be the smallest, least well-known of Keenan's three acts. But still, Maynard James Keenan incarnate, performing in a little tiny venue like the TLA? It's the very definition of perfectly-formed, full-blown amazing insanity. There's no wonder there were two shows booked. However, to our knowledge, neither date is sold out just yet. So if you'd like to see the lid blown off a Philly venue, grab some tickets quick. Next week just might be your chance.

Puscifer
Monday, 3/8/10 & Tuesday, 3/8/10
TLA, 334 South St.
8:00pm, All Ages
Tickets: $49.50, $55.00 day of show

Blogged Around Philly: "We're Getting There" Edition

Andrew Goodman — 2010-03-05T16:30:00-05:00

Photo by Flickr user Studio 34 Yoga

Who needs an RSS feed when you have us? Bringing you the best of the week in the 215 blogosphere...

This week there were numerous happenings that had local servers buzzing. There was Mayor Nutter's budget address, the beginning of spring training play for the Phillies, SEPTA changing the names of the Regional Rail lines, casino mogul Steve Wynn's proposal for a "cute" slots parlor in South Philly ... what's a blogger to do? Why, write about all of them, of course. Here are some highlights.

Before getting into these less important local issues, Philebrity reports (through Buzz Sugar) that Conan O'Brien has a new show in the works and that it will be shot in Philadelphia. Unemployed lawyers, start your engines!

With Mayor Nutter proposing to charge a two-cent tax per every ounce of sugar-sweetened beverage, Grub Street wonders if Philadelphia is at the forefront of a nutrition regulation revolution. Meanwhile, Philly Clout reports that former mayor John Street is using the announcement as a PR opportunity. Tool.

SEPTA Watch does a good job of summarizing SEPTA's announcement that it will eliminate the "R" designations of the Regional Rail system in July 2010.

Phoodie reports that Reading Terminal Market had its best year ever last year. But here's an insider tip: wait until the Flower Show is done before you return. That place is mayhem right now.

Really, Hidden Philly? You say that Bartram's Garden is one of Philadelphia's best-kept secrets? Word to the wise: get contributors who have been living in Philly for more than six months. We don't want to have to point out the fact that you're amateurs on a weekly basis. Meanwhile, Uwishunu takes us to East Oak Lane.

It made national news that President Obama reportedly has a slight cholesterol problem. And according to Salon and Politics PA, he addressed this problem like any good American—with extra deserts and by getting a Pennsylvania Congressman to go on a Yuengling run for him. Seriously.

What kills Shmitten Kitten's boner this week? Guys who bicker about subtitles and un-coordinated boys trying to jump. Take notes, gents.

News about the Phillies has not all been flattering this week. Sure, they beat the Yankees in their spring training opener on Thursday, but it also turns out that Hall of Famer and former Phillie Jim Bunning is a jackass. We hate it when that happens. Did we mention that David Brown touched Jayson Werth's beard and lived to tell the tale?

Where to Do Your Weekend Drinking

Ross Currie — 2010-03-05T16:15:00-05:00

Photo by author

Our friends at Foobooz have the unfortunate story of a raid by law enforcement officials last night on three of the cities finest watering holes: Local 44, Memphis Taproom, and Resurrection Alehouse. What dastardly deed were the three bars—all owned by Brendan Hartranft and Leigh Maida—committing? Running a prostitution ring and gambling hall in their dark corners?

Hardly.

No, the three bars were allegedly "selling unregistered beers" (beers not authorized by the PLCB for sale in Pennsylvania). According to Maida, some of the beers on the law enforcement officials' hit-list were "some really commonly poured beers (some local, some regional) as well as some harder to get Belgian, English and German beers." And the best part, in our opinion is that some of the beers that official confiscated as unregistered are, Maida says, "listed plain as day on the PLCB list of registered beers." If Maida is right about that, the PLCB has just hit a whole new level of suckitude.

Head over to Foobooz for Maida's full recap of what went down last night, and when you're done, head to one of the "offending" establishments to get your weekend started off right.

Asshole of the Week

Erica M — 2010-03-05T16:00:05-05:00

Photo by Flickr user adobemac

We hate it when the headlines cooperate so well with the weekly parade of horrors that fictional detectives battle on television. While we can barely wait for the commercial breaks to end and the story to come to a compelling and pithy conclusion, we'd like for reality to treat us all a little better than this "ripped from the headlines" drek.

Yesterday, Montgomery County's Jose David Castillo was charged, along with four others, with leading a prostitution and drug ring. This alone is not what is nasty and awful. We know that reasonably nice drug dealers exist and that some sex workers are perfectly lovely folks. Not these guys, though. They allegedly brought women into the country under the false promise of a better life, and then kept them prisoner to be repeatedly raped for which they received $30 a head from the johns. And, one of the locations out of which they operated was Gotwall's Elementary School. Kids who could grow up to be poets and astronauts and Senators were running through the same space where johns bought coke and sex. It's a dichotomy we'd prefer to see stuck to the screen on a new episode of Law and Order.

These are the men who murder hope. We're not much on preaching here. For the most part, we don't care what choices you make. Be happy and well. But, given the very real violence and terror too frequently inherent in the business of trafficking drugs and women, it's really worth thinking about when buying the stuff illegally.

Thanks to This Week's Advertisers

tien mao — 2010-03-05T16:00:00-05:00

We would like to take a moment to thank this week's advertisers on Phillyist.

Kogod School of Business at American University, preparing you for the next step in life.
GroupOn, using collective buying power to bring you one ridiculous coupon each day.
American Apparel, with 3 stores in Philadelphia, you can look your best wherever you are.

If you're interested in advertising on Phillyist or any other site in our network, check out our online mediakit.

Extra, Extra

Andrew Johnston — 2010-03-05T15:30:32-05:00

Photo by Flickr user jdebner

Today, Gil Brooks announced his resignation as head football coach at St. Joseph's Prep. Brooks was forced out the door by the school's president.

More people are being charged in connection with Wednesday's flash mob. Six more juveniles and another adult are facing charges.

Where's Obama? On Monday, he'll be at Arcadia University in Montgomery County to discuss health care. Keep your eyes peeled for tea party activists.

Tough times for New Jersey Transit—the mass transit provider plans to hike rates by 25 percent and to cut service. They'll also be laying off around 200 employees and cutting exectuve salaries to trim a $300 million budget.

Welcome back, Cole Hamels. Hamels had an encouraging outing at spring training today despite giving up a solo home run. Hamels threw 32 pitches with 20 of them going for strikes.

Frugal Fun Alert: Weekend

amy — 2010-03-05T15:00:00-05:00

Fun around town, for $10 or less:

FRIDAY:

Sketchy: Sketch comedy troupe Dependable Felons present two shows at the Walking Fish Theatre (2509 Frankford Ave.), 8:00 and 10:30 p.m. $10

Blinded Me With Science: Marvels and Ciphers, a Look Inside the Flask at Chemical Heritage Foundation (315 Chestnut St), 5:00 p.m. Free.

Darwiny: Lisa Anne Auerbach discusses her exhibit The Tract House: A Darwin Addition at the APS Museum. Auerbach asked her friends and others to create tracts using Darwin's life and ideas. (104 S. 5th Street)
6:30 p.m. Free.

SATURDAY:

Flush It Out: A frank talk about digestive health at Hawthorne Yoga & Reiki (1241 Carpenter St.), 10:00 a.m. $10 suggested donation.

Bowling for Bicycles: Red Bowl party to raise money for the Bicycle Coalition at North Bowl (909 N. 2nd Street, 2:00-6:00 p.m. $10 in advance. Free food, but you have to pay for your beer.

Cutesy: summer cats at Kung Fu Necktie (1250 N. Front St), $2-$5. 10:00 p.m.

SUNDAY:

Cheap Art: It's the first Sunday of the month and so it's pay what you wish today at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Get it while you can (26th Street and Ben Franklin Parkway). 10 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Grrl Power: The 11th Annual Womynfest. Women (excuse us, womyn) musicians take center stage at the Rotunda (4014 Walnut Street), 7:00 p.m. Free (donations accepted).

Plays in Process: The Sex Tape Play and The Sleep Detective, both part of Philadelphia Theatre Workshop's 3rd Playshop Festival at the Shubin Theater (407 Bainbridge St.), 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. $10 (each).

Got a frugal tip? Send it our way!