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April 01, 2008
Eye of the Tiger
When I was in grad school, I was a magazine slut. I would tear through everything I could get my hands on, from high-end glossies to lowly gossip rags. I inspected every page, memorizing the masthead, dreaming of the day I might find my name on the list. I thought nothing of spending $50 on bizarre pubs at one of those huge magazine stands in Harvard Square. Written entirely in Japanese? That’s not a problem – I’m looking at the design. Filled with images of men and women in artful, yet compromising positions? That’s OK. The weirder, the better. My obsession eventually led me to a basement comic book store in Cambridge that had an excellent selection of obscure magazines pushed into a tight corner under a grand display of X-men figurines. It’s here where I discovered the innovative story-telling art of the graphic novel. I had read Ghost World in college, but thought that was just a comic book geek anomaly. Up until then, I had no idea there was entire genre. It was in this basement comic book store that I discovered “Persepolis,” the autobiographical graphic novel that was recently transformed into the animated film of the same name. I was drawn to the starkness of the black and white figures, the touching innocence of the main character, the sense of femininity that didn’t reek of unicorns and pink flowers. Most of all, I was moved by the ease in which Marjane Satrapi showed that, even when surrounded by a harsh political reality, at age 13 the mysteries of puberty trump everything. I finally got the chance to see Persepolis at the Music Hall last week during its week-long run. Despite the film's political hook (it’s based in Iran) and an Academy Award to hang around its neck, there were only about 25 people in the audience. The turn-out may have been small, but the movie garnered deep guffaw-style laughs and a chorus of sniffles. Persepolis tells the story of Marjane, a young girl born to an aristocratic Iranian family during the reign of the Shah. As adolescence hits Marjane, the Islamic Revolution hits Iran. Guided by a sage and saucy grandmother, independently minded parents and the lyrics of 80s-era American punk, Marjane is the kind of girl that doesn’t take crap from anyone. This charming trait soon lands her in trouble in a country that frowns on dissent. She is sent abroad, takes up with a group of anarchists, gets her heart broken, lives on the streets and eventually finds herself back in Iran, pretending to live the life of a nice Muslim girl. But as we all know, opinionated women never stay quiet for long. From the moment the film began, I was transported into a mythical and exotic land where everything revolved around the world of a precocious girl. Instead of being waifish and weak, or cruel and conniving, this little girl was a bull. And she was funny. Her treacherous navigation into adulthood was incredibly real and riddled with pain. But all of her struggles made Marjane’s eventual redemption that much more sweet. The film also allows an insider glimpse into the mysterious culture and politics of Iran. In case you haven’t noticed, the Republicans are ready to bomb the shit out of that country as soon as they have a good enough excuse. Most Americans don’t know anything about Iran or the people that live there, myself included. Persepolis at least helped me understand that, like America, not everyone in Iran is pumped about their leadership. Politics and puberty aside, Persepolis is ultimately about trying to fit in. Marjane struggles to belong in a restrictive society, but when she goes abroad, she discovers it's no fun living in a world where everyone thinks Muslims are cruel heathens. In the opening scene, Marjane puts on her head scarf in the airport bathroom, readying for her return to the Muslim world. She immediately garners dirty looks. In the next scene, Marjane rips the headscarf off and lights a cigarette. It’s clear that, whether heading to Iran or not, she never really want to wear it anyway. Posted by blamontagne at 02:41 PM | Comments (0) January 21, 2008
It's always cloudy in Albany
Beautiful downtown Albany, your world is my oyster A few months ago, I dreamed of taking a really nice warm weather vacation. I wanted to escape the frozen tundra of New England, even if only for a few days, in hopes of getting through the winter with some semblance of sanity. Then I got laid off. The glamorous long weekend on South Beach quickly vanished and I began looking for another excuse to get out of town for a few days. After a talk with my friend, Sheila, who is going to art school in upstate New York, we hatched the plans for my Albany vacation. For the next few days, I will see the sights of New York's capital city. It should be especially pleasant seeing there's a massive cold front moving across the north east. I guess that doesn't really matter, since I'll probably be spending most my time taking advantage of the 4 a.m. last call that makes New York such a lovely place to visit. I've got my overnight bag packed, a pile of CDs, tons of snacks and a full tank of gas. Albany, here I come. Posted by blamontagne at 11:36 AM | Comments (0) January 18, 2008
Big Night Out
This could be you, and might just be me. Over the past week, I've been in detox mode, trying to rid myself of all the cookies and mashed potatoes I ate over the holidays and all the coffee and booze I downed during the final days of the primary. Tired of the bars, tired of drinking overall really, I've been spending my evenings shopping (if you call hitting Target for undies and laundry detergent shopping), at the gym or on the couch. Maybe it was the warm weather, or going to an early showing of Cloverfield that got me all ramped up, but I've definitely got the rowdy bug coursing through my veins. I know no matter how tough I talk, I'll probably find myself sipping a pop somewhere out on the town before the end of the weekend. A quick flip through my rolodex of stuff to do is showing me the usual suspects -- pints at the Coat, martinis and champagne at the Red Door, pitchers at D Street -- none of them were really calling my name. I knew if I was going to have one of THOSE night, I was going to have to dig much deeper. And here's what I found: Portsmouth Gaslight Beach Party at the Third Floor Club "Leave the winter behind," the Gaslight flier touts, and "take a four hour tropical vacation." By saying tropical vacation, I don't think they're talking romantic getaway to the Bahamas. I'm thinking it's going to be more along the lines of a trip to Sandals with scantily clad women throwing caution to the wind after a couple frozen daiquiris. Don't be surprised if you see a few ladies spending the night grinding their backsides into various dudes' crotches and stumbling home with one of the barbacks after last call. The Gaslight Beach Party offers tropical drink specials and dancing, and recommends coming in beach attire. I plan to show up in a grass skirt and coconut bra. I hear they have a few left over from the Tiki Bar days. Anyone with me? Brewery Lane Tavern Heaven and Hell Party I don't care who you are, you are going to get into trouble when you hit the Brewery Lane Tavern. I'm not sure what the specifics of this event entail, all I know if there will likely be lots of drinking, lots of cute girls in naughty outfits and some dancing. Oh, and you'll be waking up with a hangover. Portsmouth Moose Lodge Karaoke I don't think there's anything enlightening or witty I can say about this. I don't know if I'm brave enough to head to a Moose Lodge without a mighty entourage, but if any of you are thinking of trying it out, you may want to check ahead by calling 436-9627. The Ken Clark Organ Trio at the Dolphin Striker This is the best kept secret in Portsmouth. Seeing a band at the Spring Hill Tavern under the Dolphin Striker is like watching your really talented musician friends play in some rich kid's basement. The music is usually a little wacky, but there's tons of expensive liquor at your disposal and the people serving up the drinks are fun and have a heavy hand. Sure, the over-50 crowd loves this joint, but it doesn't mean that a table of you and your friends couldn't turn this shit into a party. Trust me. It beats the hell out of the Jimmy Laponza Lounge. Posted by blamontagne at 02:39 PM | Comments (0) September 20, 2007
The Fair! Be There!
Look at this sweet car. It's at the Fair! I have so many fond memories of the Rochester Fair. Like the time my sister got hurt on a ride and my mom yelled at the carnie, then the time I made out with some kid in the haunted house and all my friends made fun of me for it and I never spoke to him again. There was the time I puked on the Zipper while sitting next to a super cute boy, then later on the tea cups. There was the time my friend ditched me to go have sex with her boyfriend and I ended up walking to a friend's house and waking up his parents to give me a ride home. Then when I finally made it home, my mom grounded me for three weeks for staying out late. Oh, who can forget the time I went to the fair with Stroger the day she got fired from the Toast and I was fresh off a horrible break-up and we ate about 7,000 calories in greasy fair food. *Sigh* Good times. This is the last weekend of the Rochester Fair and I am going to do everything in my power to go. If I don't see every single crappy craft made by little Girl Scout hands, or the gorgeous black velvet art or the ridiculous Keeno prizes, I will DIE! Growing up in Rochester, the fall just isn't the same if you don't take in a Sam, Joe and Ed's sub, a little apple crisp from the Congregational Church booth, lose $10 buck on the ponies and nearly shit your pants on a rickety ride run by a toothless drunk. Oh, and get a photo next to the giant pumpkins. ALWAYS a must. If you want to get the scoop on the dopest fair on the Seacoast (suck it Stratham!) click here. It's the fair. I will be there. Posted by blamontagne at 05:25 PM | Comments (0) August 30, 2007
Vacation all I ever wanted
It was sort of like this, but the girls were a little hotter. Finishing up my 14th day of work in a row, I am pleased to announced I've started my four day vacation. Four days? you say. That's not a vacation. A vacation is, like, a whole week or something, right? Well, that may be true, but this was all I could eke out so I'm taking it. In an attempt to figure out what I was going to do between trips to the Coat, I cracked open Ye Olde Spotlight to see what hot events the city was going to offer me. Dover Greek Festival? Been there. Done that. Gilbert and Sullivan Review? I am NOT the very model of a modern major general, thank you. Tesla at the Hampton Beach Casino? Tempting, for the people watching of course, but the thought of hearing this has-been 90s hairband rasp out "Signs" one more time makes me want to pour acid in my ears. Susan Tedeschi at the Hampton Beach Casino? Who? Do they play her stuff at Breaking New Grounds? "San Francisco's rock/jam kings" Tea Leaf Green at the Stone Church? Heeeeeeeeeeeel NO! God, I don't even have the energy to write yet another tirade about how much Portsmouth has to offer people with a litter of kids and the elderly. Yes, yes, I know. What do I expect. This isn't New York or Boston or even Portland for that matter. I guess I just get annoyed at how OLD this town seems to be getting. All you Gen Xers out there know what I'm talking about. It seems the only time I see young people out doing something besides drinking is when Rocky Horror is playing at the Rep. Speaking of Rocky at the Rep... Has anyone noticed the packs of young women running around Portsmouth in their underwear lately? What the hell is this? Not that I don't mind. Folks wearing inappropriate clothing in public is always good for a laugh. It just seems a little odd that a dozen girls would all of sudden be like, "You know, hanging out at this bar is really fun, but you know what would be even better? Taking all of our clothes off and running through the streets of Portsmouth screaming in our skivvies. Wouldn't that just be THE BEST?!?!?!?" The first two times I saw this was heading from the decks to the Coat. I was coming up that little hill by the Dolphin Striker and crossing toward the Gaslight, when all of a sudden, a pack of screaming 20-something women came tearing up Market Street in their bras and panties. Judging from the kind of underwear they had on (looked normal, not all slutty like they knew someone was going to see it later) it appeared to be a spontaneous act. Just as soon as they appeared, they were up the hill and gone. About a week later, I AGAIN saw a pack of women, this one much smaller, taking the same route in their drawers up Market Street. Is this a thing I don't know about? Clearly, I am out of loop on this one. The third undies sighting was last Saturday on Bow Street. I was out in front of the Stockpot chatting with some girls I ran in to when I noticed about a dozen young women decked in corsets, garters, thigh-highs, skimpy panties, boy shorts with bows, you name it. I haven't seen that many ass cheeks hanging out since the locker room at Spaulding High. The girls weren't running and they weren't screaming. Just sort of being loud and giggly. They came up Bow Street, lead by two of the biggest 40-something dirt bags I've ever seen. The men led the ladies right past us and to their Harley's parked along the street. "Oh, yes! Get on the bikes!" I yelled, realizing immediately after that everyone of them could hear me. Ooops. So the girls did a few poses by the bikes and after about 10 minutes, the men led the lovely ladies back down Bow Street and toward the Gaslight. My friends and I then all turned to each other and said, "What the fuck was that?" Damned if I know. Posted by blamontagne at 04:11 PM | Comments (1) July 18, 2007
Getting a Little Culture
How could you even consider skipping an event that offers this? OK. So maybe I've been writing about going out drinking a little too much. Maybe I should take advantage of all the music and art and culture that comes to town in the summer months. Maybe I should try to expand my horizons, live a little and perhaps even learn something. To be honest, it's been really hard for me to get excited about anything even remotely related to the arts in Portsmouth this spring. I don't know about you, but I find it really easy to get burned out on the same old mix of music, theater and art that rotates through the venues in this area. But in recent weeks, a few items have piqued my interest so I guess it's time to put down the shot glass, give my liver a rest and take in a little local culture. Severance I have wanted to see this movie ever since I read Trevor's review of it in The Wire. It sounds totally up my alley -- dark humor, smart, scary, BRITISH! Here's the music hall's synopsis: "Comedy and horror ensue when a weapons company on a team-building weekend in Eastern Europe are attacked by killers intent on revenge for - what else? - Western influence on their culture. 2006 Telluride Film Festival. Director Christopher Smith." Sounds freakin' awesome, right? Greek Festival at Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Who doesn't love spanakopita, baklava, grilled lamb and of course Ouzo? If you've never been, the local Greek festival is a deliciously good time with lots of music and dancing and food. Make sure you bring a bunch of friends if you're not into dancing, because you'll need someone to talk to while you're chowing on all the tasty homemade food. If you're a local and you haven't been to the Greek festival, than you haven't really lived in Portsmouth. Dover Twilight Music Series My friend Dustin Ruoff told me about his little music series he was putting together this summer and I thought, this is absolutely perfect for Dover. In years past, downtown music series would consist of acts like the Shaw Brothers and local cover bands, but I knew Dustin would pull in some solid acts. Performers are of the indie-rock ilk. A listing may be found here. Press Room's Beat Nite All right, I'll fess up. I hardly ever go to Beat Nite, the jazz-infused poetry reading on the third of every month, but I always MEAN to go. I just end up running late at work or forget which Thursday in the month we're on or can't find anyone to go with. Typically when I ask people to join me at the "Depressed Room," for the event, the conversations usually goes something like this: -- Want to go listen to some poetry and jazz with me? No way. It's pint night. -- Yeah, but it's actually a lot more fun than it sounds, really. And we only have to stay an hour and then we can hit pint night. If I don't get my whole four hours of half-priced pints in, then my entire week is ruined. Sorry. And so it goes. Let me just say for the record that yes, Beat Nite is actually fun even if it sounds dorky. Just think, you are getting in a little local color and having drinks to boot. I know I said I was going dry on this one, but really, who can beat that.
Posted by blamontagne at 09:33 PM | Comments (0) July 06, 2007
A Typical Portsmouth Saturday Nightsince i posted this, I've thought of, like, 10 parties I've been to in the last 12 months that were awesome. Don't be offended friends, or stop inviting me because I'm an ungrateful hoze-bag. I guess when I was thinking party, I was thinking the kind where someone gets locked in the bathroom or pukes in the punch bowl. Yes, it's ok is you tell me I'm a douche.
Always a crowd pleaser. I've said it once and I'll say it again. There is nothing quite like warm night on the decks. Last Saturday, I spent about three hours out there, cautiously sipping my Stock Pot Lemonade, chatting with Nova and Dan and Jill and Jess and Probert. It was like a revolving door of friends. When one bowed out, another one would show up. It was catching up on new news, rehashing old times, giving shit and making plans. The night was breezy, the drinks cool and delicious and the company unbeatable. As I headed home on my bike, I ran into a friend who directed me to a party on the upper floors of a Market Square building. Feeling tired, but a little adventurous, I went in. I was not sorry. Maybe it's because I'm older or maybe because Portsmouth's becoming a little more laid back everyday, but when I first moved to this town, there were killer parties almost every weekend. There were all those great bashes on Lawrence Street with the Breaking New Grounds kids and then it became the Union Street Friendly Toast gang. For a while the Brewster Street posse had some great shows/parties, but I haven't been invited over there in a long time. Then there was that one New Year's Eve extravaganza on McDonough Street where everybody who's anybody showed up and people were dancing and spraying champagne all over the place. Those were the days. This winter, the party supply was especially dry. No one I knew even threw a Christmas cocktail party, you know the kind where everyone gets really dressed up and drinks manhattans and martinis and the night ends when someone falls drunkenly down the stairs. Those used to be a holiday season staple! [footnote: I did go to a really, really good New Year's party this year, but one event cannot last a girl an entire year!] Thankfully, my faith in Portsmouth's young adults was renewed when I showed up at the casual soiree in a Market Square apartment. I walked in and was offered a choice of beverage and ultimately handed a coffee cup of Jagermeister. Beck's Midnight Vultures was on the stereo and about 20 people milled about. I had stuff to do in the morning, so after about an hour, I tried to make a graceful exit. However, it was one of those parties where each time you try to leave, someone new and cool shows up and you end up having another beer with them. This happened to me about six times. The place was really sweet with great views of the square. People were giving hugs and high-fives to new people who came in the door. At one point a brief dance party broke out when someone put on MJ's Thriller. Good times by all. When I left, finally, the party was still in full effect. It could have turned into a giant shit show for all I know, but if I were to give this one a review, I say thumbs up, way up. Posted by blamontagne at 03:01 PM | Comments (0) June 25, 2007
Summer Expectations
Oh, sweet freedom. Is there really anything better or more exhausting than a summer in Portsmouth, New Hampshire? Each year, I make all these grand plans to go to the beach every weekend, grow an enormous garden bursting with veggies and spend my nights sipping cocktails with all my seasonal friends. And every year Labor Day rolls around and I think, shit, I didn't do half the stuff I wanted to do. If only I were independently wealthy. This summer, I have no illusions. I know I'm not going to do all the things I want, but I still can't help myself from making a list. This year, I tried to keep it modest: 1. See a film at the Portsmouth Music Hall Every year, I grab the calendar of movies, post it on the fridge, circle five or six I HAVE to see and then around Aug. 1 realize I missed everything good and the only movie left to see is Mission Impossible III. This year, I'm not entirely thrilled with the classic foreign film theme (bring back the summer of Caddyshack and Animal House please!), but I am very excited about the late summer showing of Severence. This British film chronicles a group of weapons company employees on a team-building retreat. It has all the classic elements of a modern day horror flick. It's set in the middle of nowhere Eastern Europe, it plays on the arrogant American/British view that everyone hates us because we rule the world, and most scary of all, it takes place during a corporate team-building retreat. (Have you every been on one of those thing? I shudder to think.) 2. See a tall ship When I worked at the Herald, I was given the prime assignment of covering the arrival of America's Tall Ship, the U.S. Coast Guard's training ship, the Eagle. I had to be down at the port at 5:45 a.m., ride out for about an hour in a stuffy Coast Guard vessel, jump onto a Coast Guard gunner -- with no sides -- in the middle of the ocean, ride the high seas toward the tall ship while holding onto dear life, and then jump onto a rickety staircase and climb aboard. Once on board the Eagle, I shook the sea sickness but was soon doused by a heavy rain storm. By the time I got off the ship and had to write my story at 10 a.m., I looked like a drowned rat with a soggy notebook. Not fun. This year, I'd like to check out the ships while docked on a nice sunny day. It's easier to pretend I'm sea worthy when the boat's not moving. The Prince William, from Portsmouth, England, will sail into Portsmouth Harbor on July 6, joined by the Pride of Baltimore and the Spirit of Bermuda. They stay until July 8. 3. Eat some seafood outside, preferably on a checkered table cloth Fried clams, onion rings, steamers, fried haddock, lobster -- they all make the list. Of course, accompanied by an ice cold beer or fine white wine. 4. Work on smoothing out the farmers tan OK, so I'm not one of those girls who's like, Oh, I have to get a killer tan this summer, but I am willing to (embarrassingly) admit that I really want to get rid of my farmers tan this summer. It started the years I worked on the decks and I haven't been able to shake it since. Every summer I find my arms get darker and my chest stays white. I guess I have to start wearing more low cut shirts. Why the need to cultivate a smooth bronzed tone? June 21, 2007 not only marked the first day of summer, but also the 365 day mark until my wedding. Call me cheap, but there is no way in hell I'm going to spend $80 giving myself skin cancer in a tanning booth the weeks before the big day when I can just slowly work on it naturally this summer. Plus, it gives me an excuse to get outside. 5. See some fireworks Nothing's more romantic in the entire world. Gets me every freakin' time. *sigh* 6. Take a late night skinny dippin' trip When I was 19, I lived a simple life. I would work during the day at Market Basket, go home, eat some dinner and take a nap, call my friends, meet up, get wasted and then hit the Dunkin' Donuts for some munchies. Before calling it a night, we would head to someone's pool and go skinny dipping. I don't think I've done it since that summer, but I would again in a heart beat. Posted by blamontagne at 09:09 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack June 19, 2007
The Full Monty
Watch out ladies. Lorenzo's coming to town. I don't know anyone under the age of 45 that has ever stepped foot inside the historic Ogunquit Playhouse, but I'm thinking maybe I should try to make a trip out there this summer. Celebrating its 75th anniversary, the playhouse will be hosting some amazing guest actors. Entitled the 2007 Diamond Jubilee season, this outstanding summer line up includes Menopause the Musical, The King and I, and Hairspray. But first, I must mention the play that first caught my eye: The Full Monty, feat. Sally Struthers and Hunter Foster (some broadway guy) Yes, that's right. Sally Struthers, little Gloria, will be in a play, in Ogunquit, Maine, called The Full Monty. I couldn't believe it either. Other highlights include: Lorenzo Lamas of the Bold and the Beautiful fame, will play the starring role in The King and I. Everybody's favorite Golden Girl, Rue McClanahan, will be appearing in Crazy for You and Eddie Mekka will be starring in Hairspray. Who's Eddie Mekka, you ask. None other than Carmine Ragusa of the wacky 70s sitcom Lavern and Shirley. Posted by blamontagne at 04:51 PM | Comments (1) June 08, 2007
It's Miller Time
It's coooooommiiiiing... You know what's great about busting your hump for eight days straight? Having it be over. (If I hear one more Republican talk about why English needs to be the national language, I might just gouge my eye out with my pen.) Since Memorial Day, the overwhelming amount of work I've had to tackle has severely cut into my socializing time. But now, with a three day weekend ahead of me, I can sit back, enjoy the lovely weather and get caught up on all I missed. So wasn't I taken aback as I poured through my back issues of the Herald to see that Market Square Day is this Saturday. Now, I know. Everyone HATES Market Square Day. It's just a bunch of white trash yahoos pouring over junk being sold by vendors that don't even do business in this city. Yes, that all may be true, but for some reason, I can't help but loving the ridiculous day. I don't know if its my Rochester heritage (coming from a city with one of the most glorious and trashy fairs in the state) or if I just can't resist checking out a grand shit show, but no matter how hard I try, I just can't stay away. I mean, what's not to love? Fried food, crappy booths, amazing people watching, the road race, the inevitable batch of beers one ends up drinking by the end of the day. This being New Hampshire, though, it again looks like the weather will be a little chilly and rainy. MSD probably won't be as fun as it could be, which is fine. I have plans to go to Boston that night anyway and I think it would nearly kill me if I knew the entire city was sitting on some roof deck, enjoying a balmy spring night, drinking PBRs and watching the fireworks without me.
I seriously cannot get over how dickish these guys look here. How do you think this photo went down? "Hey guys, you know what would be totally fucking awesome? If we took a photo of us in suits. I'll go get my bow tie. Now THAT'S badass!" In other news, did anyone see the front page of the Herald article about the Sports Page? At this point in the game, I feel like making fun of the Sports Page is like kicking a man while he's down, but I still can't deny that feeling of schadenfreude I get whenever I imagine those pompous-looking owners having to deal with the drama they've created for themselves. I think at some point this summer, we'll see the backwards hat wearing silhouette pull in his pointing fingers and turn up the middle ones towards all the bone-headed businessmen who put him up there. Eat. Drink. Score...Sue? Posted by blamontagne at 11:18 AM | Comments (2) May 10, 2007
Downtown SoundAhh, the sweet sounds of Portsmouth summers have returned. As I sat in the square, trying to get a little work done this afternoon, I couldn't help but notice the constant din of construction. Well, I shouldn't say couldn't help but notice. It was more like, "Holy Shit. Why is it so damn loud out here! Is that man operating a jack hammer over there?" One of the sources of the noise seemed to be from the all the sidewalk renovations they've been doing on Congress Street. I guess our wise city councilors felt there wasn't enough brick in this city so they had to remove all the asphalt from our walkways and cover them in brick too. But they aren't quite brick yet so the lower end of Congress Street is looking more like the Alley of Broken Dreams down by the decks. It's all dirt with random pieces of cardboard thrown randomly on the ground for people to trip over. Looking good Portsmouth! Regardless of the noise, it is nice to see Market Square alive again, The long row of motorcycles is back along with the weekend warrior bikers that like to show how bad ass they are by drinking iced lattes at Breaking New Grounds. There are the trendy girls with the thickly rolled up jeans and the big sunglasses. There's the bohemians with their potpourri of musical instruments playing goofy hippy tunes, the cops hanging on the cruiser, looking at the cute girls through their tinted glasses. The hipster kids who weave in and out of traffic on their rebuilt Japanese bikes, the endless parade of strollers, the occasional dog fight that breaks out when their owners spend too much time gabbing with each other. There's the countless packs of teenagers playing hooky and the white collar folks sneaking out of the cube for a little afternoon sun. And don't forget the college kids and homeless folks and empty nesters and now this year, the campaign staffers. And I didn't even get into the different types that hang out there at night. Anyone seen the magician yet this year? I guess the noise is just another fixture, like the horse and buggy was for a while, or the scaffodling on the tower. As much as you hate it while its there and wish it would just go away, when it is gone, there's a little part of you that wishes it was still there. On second thought, no. That's total bullshit. No one is going to miss this damn construction. I'm sure it'll all be over soon-- around the time the snow flies. Posted by blamontagne at 08:29 PM | Comments (0) December 14, 2006
Holiday Party Marathon
If your weekend is shaping up to be anything like mine, you have about a half-dozen Christmas parties to attend in the next 72 hours. When it comes to Holiday parties, they can run the gamut from the dry office buffet/Yankee swap to the all night rager, complete with red and green Jell-o shots. For most people, it is a major challenge to survive the holiday party gauntlet, but for someone who also celebrates a birthday during this glorious time of year, I have become skilled in maintaining until New Years Day. Just remember friends, this isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon. The office party: Rachel Forest already did a pretty good job of covering this one, but I figured it was important to re-iterate the cardinal rule of drinking with co-workers. Make sure there is always someone on site who is more drunk than you. Also remember, the Yankee swap is a great time to re-gift those scented candles. The family/friends of parents party: This is a hard one, seeing as everyone is so different. I’ve been to family gatherings where Aunt Rose is shoving food and wine down my throat the moment I walk in and others where Grandma Mable made me watch Lawrence Welk all night and my only sustenance was sticky, stale ribbon candy and oyster crackers. When it comes to drinking, follow the family norm that has been established with your immediate family. If your dad is looking for a drinking buddy, but no one seems to tipping them back as fast, drink with your dad. If the champagne is flowing, but your mom seems uncomfortable, stick to the punch. In general, make sure you say hello to everyone you are related to, even if for a second, and make sure to bring the host/hostess a gift. I find home made gifts are the best this time of year. Parties with friends: This is your chance to really unwind, de-stress from Christmas shopping, kvetch about how you’re the only one in the office who hasn’t yet taken your remaining days off. I always make sure I call to confirm appropriate dress. Some people like to do the formal thing this time of year, while others couldn’t care and just want to sip their toddy in a pair of jeans and a sweater. Again, always bring the host/hostess a gift. Booze or a bottle of wine is nice, and so are cookies. I like bringing a bag filled with a variety of about 10 nips. You get a little rum, a little vodka, a little Bailey’s for the coffee in the morning. For those of you out there who will be going to a holiday party with me, feel free to steal the idea, but remember, the host may not want 15 tiny bottles of Goldschlager. Two parties in one day: There’s really no excuse not to attend two parties in the same town if they happen on the same day. I guess if you hate the person throwing one of the parties, you could skip it, but really, couldn’t you just make an appearance? Before you go, decide at which party you would rather end the night. Then contact the host of the other party and say you are going to come early, but have to skedaddle after an hour or so because of another engagement. If the host of the first party gives you a hard time, just blame you significant other, or tell her there’s a really cute guy you want to hook up with at the second party or something. If she still insists on you staying, tell her you’ll come back. Chances are she’ll be so wasted by midnight, she won’t even notice you weren’t there. When arriving at the second party, make sure to let that host know you’ve made it. If you are driving, place your first call for a taxi then. By the time it gets there, the party will be over and you'll be ready to leave. Posted by blamontagne at 04:35 PM | Comments (0) November 17, 2006
What to do? Everything!Looking through the weekly announcements of band listing, art shows and craft fairs, I was finding it hard to pick one or two things to highlight. Although I am crunched for time on a Friday, I’ve taken an extra minute or two to list all of my top selections. Daytime diversions
The Salmon Falls Mills Art Studios on Front Street in Rollinsford will be holding an open house this weekend. Think of it as an appetizer before the Button Factory. Why not go and buy something unique and nice for your mom. Chances are you will be supporting a much poorer artist than those who work out of Portsmouth. Salmon Falls Mills Open House If leaving Portsmouth is an issue for you, pop on over to the Red Sleigh Bazaar at the Middle Street Baptist Church. This old fashioned church bazaar will feature homemade crafts, “attic treasures,” baked goods and a hot lunch! What sounds better than going through some old lady’s attic treasures than eating the hot meal she cooked for everyone? Red Sleigh Bazaar Later in the day If you are feeling adventurous, or really like locally produced short films, head up to Rochester -- yes, I said Rochester -- for the Filmstream Short Film Fest at Art Stream Studios on North Main Street. For those of you who haven’t had the opportunity to visit this excellent and ever changing gallery, mark it on your winter day to do list. Definitely worth the trip. Also, the event will premire the Odiorne Point Flasher documentary, which I’ve heard is a hoot. Filmstream Short Film Fest If you are anything like me, you never seem to get to the cool indie flicks before they leave the theater. Why is it I can get my sorry butt to Borat, but I can’t put the effort in to find out where Little Miss Sunshine is playing? Well, here is my chance. This weekend at the University of New Hampshire Memorial Union Building movie theater, there will be multiple showings of both Little Miss Sunshine and Strangers With Candy. If you can stand hanging out with a bunch of stoner college kids for two hours than this is your best bet. Find that old UNH ID and head to Durham! It’s free! Strangers With Candy Little Miss Sunshine Late night options
I’ve always pegged the Press Room as a middle age person’s hang out, but in recent months, I’ve noticed my recent college grad friends have been hanging out there a lot. Is this the new smart young person hangout? Who knows. Either way, the music offerings are still great and Saturday is no exception. The Serfs, which play “polka, surf rock and beyond” will be upstairs starting at 9 p.m. I have always had a soft spot for polka ever since I discovered front man Gary Sredzienski’s Polka Party on WUNH Saturday mornings. It may sound like the most unlikely match -- polka and a night of drinking -- but just think, millions of eastern Europeans can’t be wrong. The Serfs Do you ever find yourself saying, Gee I wish I could find a bar that would play nothing but great 80s dance hits? Well if you do, there’s the semi-new Dover Soul 80s DJ dance party every Saturday night. I’ve never been to Dover Soul except to get a cup of coffee, so I have no idea what the scene is like at night, but if you find yourself a little tipsy this Saturday and are looking to shake it a little with your gal pals, now you know where to go. Dover Soul 80s dance party Posted by blamontagne at 02:14 PM | Comments (0) November 09, 2006
John Lennon: rabble rouser
When The U.S. vs. John Lennon first came to the Music Hall this summer, it got rave reviews from the Herald staff that went to see it. It was amazing our government would do something to a rock icon whose one real wish in life was for peace, one colleague said. What did the government do, I wondered and why was is worthy of a movie? Intrigued with this little nugget of lost rock history, I kicked myself for missing it. But looking at the online schedule to day, though, I can now take the movie out of my Netflix queue. The Music Hall will also be displaying local rock photographer Joe Stevens' work during the three showings this weekend. If you haven't caught his work during a Button Factory open house or a previous show at Kilim, that alone is worth checking out. For those who didn't hear about The U.S. vs. John Lennon when it was first released, here's a quick synopsis from the Music Hall site" "All I ever wated to do was play in a rock and roll band," John Lennon once told a friend. David Leaf and John Scheinfeld's documentary uses archival footage to reveal a program by the Nixon White House and J. Edgar Hoover's F.B.I. to deport Lennon on a phony immigration violation. Both classic and lesser-known Lennon-Ono tunes punctuate this moving, provocative and tragic glimpse of Lennon's history - one we mistakenly imagined we knew all too well. Show times: Posted by blamontagne at 05:57 PM | Comments (1) November 06, 2006
Famous pron star comes to Ioka!
According to a giant, full page ad I saw recently, he's going to bring his stand-up schtick to the Ioka on Dec. 15. Tickets are a little steep, $35 a pop, but if you loved Screech as much as Zach Morris and A.C. Slater, than I guess it's worth it? Posted by blamontagne at 04:20 PM | Comments (0) October 27, 2006
Worst. Costume. Ever.I started writing this entry with the intent of sharing my favorite costume ideas for the upcoming Halloween celebrations this weekend, but then I thought, why do I want to give all my good ideas away? Instead, I have put together a brief list of costumes that should banned from all Halloween parties until the end of time. Here we go: Men in drag
I have never been to a Halloween party where there was not at least one guy in drag. Didn’t anyone tell him somebody’s done that before, like a million people every year? Yes, it’s sort of funny to see a guy in drag try to pick up chicks, especially if he’s a friend, but seriously, dressing like a woman is just the lazy man’s way out of finding a real Halloween costume. Naughty School Girl
However, we are now grown ups. We know the naughty school girl is played out, but for some reason, there are those ladies out there that insist on keeping this trend alive. Dudes, I know you probably don’t have my back on this one but ladies, I know you’re feeling me. Baby Costumes
The Kittycat
Remember the SNL skit where all the ladies at the Halloween party had kickass costumes and no one would pay attention to them because all the guys were drooling over Molly Shannon who was dressed as a “kittycat prostitute?” If you do, you know what I mean. If not, trust me. The kittycat is not hot, it’s weak. P.S. I will say this guy has incorporated two of the banned costumes here with great aplomb.
Posted by blamontagne at 02:11 PM | Comments (0) October 10, 2006
Harvestfest!
The Seacoast's Jumbo circus Peanuts will be there!
Sponsored in part by Redhook Brewery, the beer festival offers plenty of seafood, beer and even a performance from the Jumbo Circus Peanuts. Admission is $25, which includes five 8 oz. samples of Redhook beer, a Harvestfest collectors glass and a $5 food coupon to use at the restaurant. For those of you who haven’t been to the Lobster in the Rough, it’s not your typical seafood joint. It’s outdoors with the picnic tables and the fried food served in plastic baskets, but the establishment also has an outdoor bar and horseshoe pits, or at least it did the last time I was there... The Festivities start at 5 p.m. and go to 10 p.m. and those who attend must be over 21. For more information, call 207-363-4422. To learn more about the delicious food, crafts, and other events planned on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, go to this link, through the Greater York Region Chamber of Commerce. Posted by blamontagne at 05:48 PM | Comments (0) August 25, 2006
Weekend Movies
This weekend, the Screening Room will be showing the cult classic TV show prequel “Strangers With Candy.” Terri Blank fans can enjoy her snarly smile: Friday, Aug. 25 at 6:45 and 8:45 p.m. For those of you unaware of Comedy Central’s series that comes off like a perverse afterschool special, then perhaps you should wait until next month, when from Sept. 30 through Oct. 12, you can see “the most buzzed about movie at Sundance this year,” “Little Miss Sunshine.” If you are anything like me, who hasn’t been to see a movie in the theater since the Star Wars Episode III, I think these two films are strong enough to get us out of the bar for one night. Posted by blamontagne at 03:41 PM | Comments (0) August 22, 2006
Vacation's over
me and the Queen For the past few days I’ve been mulling over what I should discuss when I finally start putting up new blog posts again. I tried to write something witty, something in-depth, something straight-forward, but nothing seemed to work. I was uninspired and dejected. Then I ran into Joe Leary, the mind behind the annual Big Kid’s Prom. As I was cruising through the square on a busy weekday afternoon, Joe strolled up to my car in his trademark oversized glasses and slipped me a bright green invite. On Sunday, September 24 at 9 p.m., the Muddy River Smokehouse downstairs lounge (now known as Bourbons) will be transformed into a surrealistic, smoke-filled version of the night all high schoolers dream of. Joe has selected “Welcome to the Jungle” as this year’s theme for the formal event. If you plan to go solo, bring 10 bucks. If you’ve got a date, the two of you can roll in for $15. Sorry minors, 21+ only. “I’m way ahead of schedule this year,” said Joe, who spent the other night putting the finishing touches on a giant papier mache giraffe. The music is almost set, too, he said. The night is completely DJed by Joe who spends hours before the event preparing CD mixes that will start the night out smooth, take the kids up to dance frenzy and continue right on through until he plays “Stairway to Heaven.” For those who went last year, you may have noticed the typical Friendly Toast hipster crowd was in the minority and most of those in attendance took the formal dress requirement quite literally. Don’t let that discourage those boys out there who are still looking for a venue to rock the powder blue tux dad got married in. Original and unique attire is welcome. Seeing as I have a few days off in my pocket and haven’t had a chance to look swanky and go dancing in quite some time, I will likely see you there. Posted by blamontagne at 05:46 PM | Comments (1) July 14, 2006
It's going to be a hot one
Now that it’s finally summer and the temperature is venturing into the 90s, I’m sure many of you will be sitting on the decks, laying out at the beach or enjoying an afternoon by the pool this weekend. For those who are little less stout of heart and run for the AC whenever you hear the words hazy, hot or humid, perhaps a venture up to Waterville, Maine (almost Augusta, my friends) for the Maine International Film Festival is the cure you are looking for. The Maine International Film Festival boasts screening 80 films over a ten day period. This year’s Opening Night film is Islander, shot entirely on Vinalhaven Island and Rockland, Maine. The film by Ian McCrudden and Tom Hildreth tells the story of a disgruntled lobesterman and his life after a stint in prison. The reviews I’ve read thus far are glowing, saying Islander paints a beautiful picture of working-class life in Maine. Also features actor Philip Baker Hall who has appeared in Boogie Nights and Magnolia. The festival also includes America Blackout, the well-received documentary inspired by Bush’s 2000 win in Florida and the subsequent investigation into the disenfranchisement of the black vote and the Charles Bukowski biopic Factotum, with Matt Dillon apparently playing a great version of Harry Chinaski. Eternal indi-film star Lily Taylor is also in it playing the boozing Jan. There are dozens more that look amazing and although Waterville is about 2 hours away, the festival is a great excuse to get away from town for a while. There are also a ton of parties and events scheduled outside the theater to keep one entertained between and aftr showings. Tickets are $8 each, with a 10-movie pass for $75 and an unlimited pass for $150. For more info, check out the Web site. Posted by blamontagne at 12:38 PM | Comments (0) July 05, 2006
You've got Moxie
Yes, it’s Moxie, the state beverage of Maine. Lisbon Falls, the home of this semi-famous soda, will host the annual "Moxie-Gras" celebration, the Moxie Festival all this weekend. There’s a canoe race, car show, pancake breakfast, 5K road race, a parade and dozens of food vendors and hokey events. Oh, and there will be plenty of ice cold Moxie. I couldn’t possibly highlight all the things planned, so check out the festival’s mediocre Web site for a schedule. Posted by blamontagne at 04:54 PM | Comments (0) June 17, 2006
When orginality fails, just borrowI meant to put this up last week, but I got carried away with the Maine primary elections, graduation and all the other exciting thing that were going on in the area. This one I snagged from King Fu Mike. I don't think he will care if I repost it if I give him a plug. Anyway, for those cynics and curmudgeons who nearly went insane last Saturday with all the Market Square Day vendors clogging the streets and the hoards of people enjoying themselves besides the rain, this revamped logo is for you.
Posted by blamontagne at 04:54 PM | Comments (1) June 02, 2006
Let's move on to something a little more interestingMy, my, my. I had no idea my opinions (and apparently my typos?) could muster such vitriolic comments. I haven't had this much talk about me on Myspace since the last time I was single! Well, I guess it's nice to know someone out there is reading this thing and I'm not just composing boring, untalented tripe for my three friends. Having come back from vacation well rested and more appreciative of New England weather, I was pleased to find the Music Hall released it's summer movie schedule. I was especially excited to see the Muppet Movie early on the line-up, though this flick doesn't compare in the least to the scene in the Great Muppet Caper where Miss Piggy flies through the stained glass window on a motorcycle to thwart the diamond thieves. Pure cinematic genius. There are the bigger movies most of us wanted to see but were too wary of giving money to the mall, like Syriana, Trans America and Thank You for Not Smoking. Then there are those set to come out that look good, funny, interesting, like Art School Confidential and An Inconvenient Truth, but make you feel a little nerdy when ordering the tickets after a pack of 17-year-olds purchased passes to Stick It. Then there are the films that make the Summer Movie Series an asset to this tiny city. Those relatively unknown flicks and foreign films, like Kinky Boots, l'enfant, and I Am Cuba, which challenge us Seacoastians to break out of our isolated bubble and experience something different for and hour or two. My must-see list includes the documentary, Why We Fight, which takes a critical look at the American military-industrial complex, the Notorious Betty Page, which details the light-bondage career of this 1950s dirty pin-up girl, and Neil Young: Heart of Gold, which needs no explanation. Tickets may be purchased before the show, $8 for adults, $6 for students, seniors and military, or you could invest in a seasons pass "Golden Ticket" for a measly $300. (They say you'll save over $2,000.)
Posted by blamontagne at 11:37 AM | Comments (5) May 23, 2006
Vacation baby!
Beautiful downtown Vancouver. Whenever I look forward to something, I usually can't stop talking about it. Anyone who's sat next to me at work, attended a municipal meeting in Kittery or drank with me at a bar in recent weeks, knows I'm heading to Vancouver for the next week, but I thought anyone else out there who knows me and checks this thing may not, so: Hey, I'm in Vancouver for a week and it is going to totally rule! In order for me to have a guilt-free conscience on my first big vacation in years, here are a few things to do while I'm gone. Darkbuster with The Frosting and Grrrls out of Hell Frosting, aka, Stagecoach Dick, aka Shuttlecock are always worth the drive, not really becacue of their talent, per se, but for the show. They've been known to take the stage with a shine on and as one who likes to get a little toasty myself, I admire performers who do so as well. I don't know Darkbuster, but I've been told they're the East Coast NOFX. Take it for what you will. DJ Kinetic I usually try to see DJ Kinetic, or Trevor as I usually call him, when he's in town. He plays a great mix of intellectual electronic and old time favs. You can tell he went through a short goth phase and a short hip-hop phase and has come from the dark side of it a better man. Drinks will be high brow and expensive, but when was the last time you cleaned yourself up and had a night on the town, anyway. Alcoa, Boy, The First Annual, Harper, Before They Set Sail I always try to see Alcoa, as well, since they are one of the few bands I've heard in town who know how to create skillful, interesting songs and play them well. For a $5 donation and cheap PBR, you can't really beat this night of live music. Just remember, you really, really, really have to be quiet. Elsa Cross and Alexej Siren If you missed the Stagecoach Dick show this past winter, you may not be aware of the sultry voice of Elsa Cross. Her rockabilly looks decive since her music is all soft country sung with the guts and gall of a true blues star. If you're going out drinking in Dover anyway, stop in. I guarantee you will fall in love. Posted by blamontagne at 03:29 PM | Comments (6) April 14, 2006
Gratuitous plug part 1i receivd this message in my inbox today and thought I'd might share the news about a fellow Portsmouth Herald staffer: Jamie Cohen will be hosting a figs and hummus soiree to welcome her "Sweet 'n' Little" photo series into the word on Friday. It's at Caffe Killim. Stop by after work from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Also, there is a serious rumor floating around about a Guts reunion. I figure I'll let this one fester for a bit before I rush to confirm it. All I know is if this is true, it's going to be one hell of a party. Posted by blamontagne at 12:47 PM | Comments (0) April 06, 2006
Backstage at Portsmouth's #1 awards show
Watching the show backstage at the Spotlight Awards on Wednesday. Photos by Jamie Cohen
Embarassing video of me backstage. Listen to my backstage interviews. Every April, the Portsmouth Herald invites all the artsy people in town to a big party at the Music Hall and recognizes a handful for the work they did over the past year. I always skipped this event, thinking it was too theater heavy, or I disagreed with some of the choices for nominees (Pondering Judd got nominated AGAIN?). Now that I'm a staffer, I decided to see what the scene was like, hop back stage and shcmooze with the bands, scope out the lobby for people to interview and of course, watch the show. On the night of the awards, I arrived un-fashionably late and quickly scurried backstage to ditch my coat and grab my tape recorder. In the Green Room, I ran into fellow Spaulding High School alum Jimmy Dozet, guitarist of The Press. We chatted it up long enough for me to get him to admit the band was wasted. (Edit that part out though, he said.) Out in the hall, people were milling about with little plastic drink cups of wine and beer. I took a seat just as the lights came down and Rocky Horror began. Usually not a huge fan of musical theater, I was very impressed with the energy of the performers. They sang the crap out of that Time Warp song. I guess when you're doing Rocky it's hard not to get into it. They were promptly followed by The Press who entertained the crowd to a luke-warm reception.
The Press are rappin' fools. It's not that their performance wasn't an easily accessible mix of funk and hip-hop. It wasn't that they sucked, musically or entertainment-wise. They were just playing to a big crowd of middle-aged people. I saw a few bobbing heads. I guess I just wanted them to get the same type of reception Billy Butler got when he came out and did his mock-rap ala SNL to kick off the show.
Billy Butler makes the whole world smile. People were waving hands like they just didn't care, they were on their feet and clapping. I know the musical theater fans are obsessed with Billy Butler (as they should be) but just because the Press wasn't making fun of rap doesn't mean you can't get up and shake it a little. I guess the drinks hadn't quite kicked in when they did their set. After Butler was the first round of awards. That's when I headed back-stage for a beer. Tom Colletta, The Press, Laurel Brauns, the members of the Texas Governor, Bruce from the Press Room and loads more local musical personalities were hanging out, drinking Sam Adams and Red Hook brews. The conversation was mostly gossip and reflections of past award shows. People love to bring up the infamous Satan's Teardrops, Guts, Monkey Butlers tribute to the Clash Spotlight Awards. From what I hear it was wild, man. People were doing beer bongs and then someone whipped out a slip-n-slide. Then some moron from the Monkey Butlers had to trash a monitor and short out the whole show, which then started a riot and the town's people burned down the theater. Really, really crazy. My favorite parts, by far, were the musical acts. Laurel sounded great, her voice delicately wavering in all the right places. Her rubber ducky boots were well-fitting and absolutely adorable. Jon Nolan and Hokum were pop-rock delicious and the Texas Governor got everyone warmed up for the bar with their closing rock set.
Laurel Brauns is beautiful. Often I think artists in this town feel isolated, like no one except their friends are listening, but last night was so positive, so encouraging. People seemed to genuinely care about supporting other artists. This town sometimes talks a big game about the arts but when it comes to following through, they drop the ball. The Spotlight Awards made me feel like that was finally changing, that this city is ready to put their artistic money where their mouth is. Heck, Portsmouth Community Radio was broadcasting the event and just about every musician mention the Wire's RPM Challenge.
David Goolkasian AKA the Texas Governor Even though I spent the night secretly waiting for the after-party at the Muddy River, it was really lack-luster in comparison with the show,. Martinis were flowing like water and people were dancing like mad when Heavens to Murgatroid started pulling out the covers. I mingled, had a few, but by the time midnight rolled around, everyone was so far ahead of me I was like a sober judge in the Friday night Paddy wagon. As Billy Butler said, it was great that people could come together to celebrate music and theater and the arts in the spirit of selling papers. While that joke may be true to some extent, it was also nice that people could come together for music, theater and art just for the sheer fact of letting those creative people know that somebody, anybody out there appreciates all the passion and all the hard work they do. Bravo, everyone.
Posted by blamontagne at 05:27 PM | Comments (0) March 23, 2006
local movies and beerSunday, March 26 With all the arsty people who live along the Seacoast, there are few opportunities for local film makers to showcase their work. Bands have all the clubs and bars. Visual artists have a myriad of small galleries and open studio shows. Dancers, singers and actors have the dozens of choruses, studios and theater groups in the area. But if you want to see a locally made film this weekend, you’re pretty much out of luck. Just a week or so ago Michael Winters showed an art house-esque film -- with a hauntingly ambient score -- under the name The Great Invisible at Nahcotta. After the film, the general consensus of those in attendance was that there aren't nearly enough opportunities for aspiring film makers, or even film hobbyist, to show their work. It's not that there interest, it's just there are no venues willing to take the risk. Smuttynose Brewery President Peter Egelston, Executive Brewer David Yarrington and local film booster Tim Deal have decided to change that. On Sunday, March 26, the altruistic local beer company will launch its Un-filtered Film Series showcasing movies made by home-grown talent. The first event of the series will commemorate the 130th anniversary of “the grisly Smuttynose murders,” by presenting two “chilling feature films.” The showing will be held at 4 p.m. at the Smuttynose Brewery on Heritage Ave. in Portsmouth. I know I didn’t know where this was so I’ve linked handy mapquest directions for you convenience. “It’s pretty low budget,” said Yarrington of his fledgling film series. Right now, the group is trying to gauge interest in local film and they hope to make this event a regular thing where film makers can come and test audiences. The showing will be in their “Hospitality Room” a described as a Spartan conference room, rather than a traditional theater. “It more like walking into a warehouse scene in a city,” Yarrington said. Most importantly, there will be beer. Smuttynose beer, but beer none the less. That Old Brown Dog Ale tastes just like Newcastle, I think. The night will open with The Sacrifice, written and Directed by Dover resident James Fessenden. Here is the synopsis as provided by Smuttynose: “Three years after the death of his father, 16-year-old Jonathan Kelly is still depressed and withdrawn. When he moves with his mother to the small New Hampshire town of Dunkirk, he is immediately drawn to David, a boy who shares his interest in the occult. But when the boys try to satisfy their curiosity about a local ghost story, they discover that somebody is digging up graves in the oldest part of the cemetery, collecting human remains for a dark ritual - a ritual that will end in human sacrifice.” The second slated film is Lycan Colony, written and directed by Rob Roy (yes that’s his name) of Manchester. Here's the cryptic synopsis: “Some small towns hold many secrets. Two siblings and a newly settled doctor’s family are about to find out this town’s darkest secret... the hard way. All things are not as they appear.” For those of you who are like me and are interested in what it takes to put a film together -- especially when you have no money -- members of the cast and crew will be there to answer questions. Also, other independent film makers are welcome to stop in and try to peddle their wares for the next slot of the series. If that’s your gig, talk to Tim Deal. He’s doing all the booking. For more information about the event call Smuttynose Brewing Co. (603) 436-4026, ex 14 Posted by blamontagne at 03:57 PM | Comments (0) March 10, 2006
Art Round TownOne of my favorite Portsmouth events, particularly during warmer weather, is the New Hampshire Art Association-affiliated "Art 'Round Town." The second Friday of the month, galleries open their doors, offering wine, hors d'oeuvres and a chance to meet the artists and discuss their work. Galleries open from 5 to 8 p.m., maps available at each stop. For more information visit, www.artroundtown.org or call Three Graces Gallery at 603.436.1988.
The Unknown (End); Aaron Drew; woodcut Aaron Drew, Stockpot bartender past and present, will be featured tonight at the Three Graces Gallery, showing off the work he did on his hiatus from Portsmouth. Graduate of the reknowned University of Indiana printmaking program, Drew says, "I am obsessed with cloud formations and see their metaphoric role as my contemplations." His show is called Apathy and Entropy and for those of you who know Drew, it's a wonderful title. Sotto Voce at Nahcotta This open, airy gallery which features a wide range of works from designer lampshades and handbags to giant oil paintings will be offering live entertainment Saturday night. Their "evening of unique sight and sound" will feature The Great Invisibles and former Water Section member Justin Carloni. Posted by blamontagne at 10:01 AM | Comments (0) February 13, 2006
That time of yearI’m not going to do it. I’m not going down that pathetic and cliché columnist path that is so common this time of year. I’m not going to sing the praises of love or talk about how you really should appreciate your significant other more than you do. I’m certainly not going to caustically crap on all the people I know who are in love, accusing them of commercializing a human emotion and hence bringing forth the demise of our civilization. And I am definitely not pulling out the combo, saying I used to loathe February 14 but now that I’ve found THE ONE, I can safely survive the holiday and have even ventured to buy a box of chocolates. So, yes, I’m going where no columnist has ever dared to go before — I’m not going to talk about Valentine’s Day. Well I suppose people out there are going to point out that I already have talked about Valentine’s Day just by mentioning I am not going to talk about it, and I suppose you’re right. But the reason I brought it up in the first place was my struggle to poetically segue into mentioning a promising event this Tuesday that could possibly rival the Big Kids Prom in style and music: Valentine’s Day semi-formal with the Dents If there’s one thing I love, it’s putting on one of my many bridesmaid dresses, getting my hair all big, slapping on some make-up and going out to dance and have some cocktails. I also love seeing men in suits, but don’t we all? When the band isn’t on stage, the Muddy is providing a DJ so the dance will never stop. Think of this as a way to be subversive, give the finger to Valentine’s Day, but still look hot and potentially hook up while doing so. Seriously, you can’t beat that. Posted by blamontagne at 12:30 PM | Comments (3) February 01, 2006
This weekendRemember how riled up everyone got about the 3rd Floor Club this summer, how people either loved it or hated it with the fiery passion of 1,000 suns? Well, in an attempt to promote the cooler acts there, in hopes that it will no longer be the cheese-ball locale that it is, I am advancing Lord bass and Kinetics' next show. Thursday, Feb. 2 I also have to give a shout out to one of my favorite non-profits in the area. On Friday, Feb. 3, the Kittery Youth Connection/Kittery Chemical Awareness and Prevention will be holding a silent and live auction at their head-quarters on Shapleigh Road -- across the street from Brooks and next to the Post Office. This group is a great after school program that gives kids a place to do their homework, play games, work on art projects, have a snack and hang out with their friends. It's a wonderful service, especially to single parents who don't want to leave their 12-year-old home alone but can't afford to do anything else. The organization's overall goal is to promote an anti-drug message, not only by telling kids that drugs are bad, but showing them there are other things to do after school besides raid mom and dad's liquor cabinet. About 50 kids go there everyday and up until recently, functioned on small private donations and grants. Now the grant money has dried up and the community has stepped forward to help raise money. The items up for auction include spa gift certificates, ski packages, antiques, free dinners at local restaurants and lobsters. If you feel like doing something nice for the community before heading out on Friday night, please, swing over to Kittery and buy something, or simply make a donation. Thanks! Posted by blamontagne at 11:14 AM | Comments (2) January 30, 2006
When the world is bringing you downCall me sensitive, call me over-involved, call me a nerd, but sometimes listening to the national news makes me really depressed. There's the whole domestic spying program, Iran is going to get the bomb, Israel is flaring up again, the ABC News anchor and his photograher were almost killed in an IED attack, a wife and her baby were shot to death in their Massachusetts home and the police didn't find the bodies on the first check of the house, the Republicans are completely corrupt and out of control and the Democrats can't seem to put two words together that make sense. Need I go on? I spend a lot of time on this blog writing about meaningless things like getting boozy, seeing stupid movies and listening to bands that will likely never play outside the Seacoast area, but lately I've felt that these endeavors have been keeping me sane, giving me a chance not only to forget about our global troubles, but a chance to hash out the issues of the day with my friends and vent a little. In hopes of helping anyone out there that may have the "can't escape the crushing yoke of reality" bug, here are two events that are sure to spark some great political conversation and maybe even make you feel a little better. Monday, Jan. 30 Whenever I interview a soldier who has just returned from Iraq, I ask that person to tell me what it was like. How hot is it? How smelly? How do people react when they see you? Do they hate Americans or do they understand we're just trying to help? Not once has a soldier given me a truly descriptive, satisfying answer. When I told another soldier this, and asked him why he thought no one would tell me what it was like, he said, "Well, it's probably because there's no way to describe it. There's no way to make you understand what it's like over there." Fair enough, but there's a part of me that still wants to know, and when I watch the news, I just don't get it. Alive in Baghdad is an attempt to describe the indescribable, to document what the U.S. invasion means to the average Iraqi. Brian Conley, a 25 year-old journalist and filmmaker from Somerville Mass., started the project, according to his Web site, because he felt the mainstream media was failing to give voice to the people the invasion most affected. Conley is now back from Iraq and is trying to raise money for a return trip (so expect some financial begging at this thing). For those of you unaware of the Society of Friends, a.k.a., the Quakers, they are a peace-loving bunch. Therefor, the evening will likely have an anti-war slant, just to let those of you know who may not take the same position. Mon. Jan 30 through Thursday Feb. 2 When I was in the eighth grade, I had to do a biographical report on some historic figure. Not one to cop out by doing Betsy Ross or George Washington, I opted for Senator Joseph McCarthy, following my mom's suggestion. I have always been fascinated with stories of powerful men who try, and inevitably fail, to gain more power by controlling people's views. McCarthy's story is one of the more interesting examples because the very thing he was trying to protect, was what he eventually started to destroy. I won't pretend that there is no intended parallel between McCarthy's efforts and those of the Bush Administration. George Clooney has basically said that about a million times already. I do find Edward R. Murrow's bravery inspiring, especially when the national press corps seems so spineless these days. I mean, how many times have we heard Bush spin this whole domestic spying thing. I'm sorry, but I just don't feel comfortable with the thought of you possibly listening to me talk about my love life to my pals. What ever happened to the Republican tenet that the government should stay off our backs (and off our phone lines)? If you've been as annoyed about the world as I've been, this movie will likely be the cure. Nothing makes people smile like watching the undoing of a despicable man. Posted by blamontagne at 12:52 PM | Comments (0) January 24, 2006
Stuff to doLately, I've been a little obsessed with the "ripped from the headlines"-type topics. There are just so many great night life related stories out there right now. But when you work at a paper, it's easy to get caught up on the political jibba-jabba of the day. My resolution this week is to get back on track regarding the goings-on around town. Here is a brief list of what I found:
A History of ViolencePortsmouth Music Hall When I first caught the trailer for this movie, I thought, that could either be really dumb or totally awesome. Then it received a number of good reviews, (Roger Ebert called it an "inspired audience thriller"), a few big-name nominations, and I thought perhaps my latter prediction was true. I am particularly interested in seeing Viggo Mortensen in a role that doesn't require him to speak like a piss-poor Shakespearean actor. Plus Ed Harris's character looks completely horrifying in the previews. January is the perfect time to go to the movies, but unfortunately, studios often release their schwag right now in fear of being forgotten by Oscar time. Well, the Music Hall hasn't forgotten that it's cold and crappy out. While I took a pass on Capote (haven't finished In Cold Blood yet), I'd got to History of Violence. Tiger Saw Tiger Saw is a Newburyport band that tours nationally and has developed a pretty strong local following. Their music is of the slow, quiet, depressing ilk, but has a melancholy/hopeful twinge. For a venue like the Blue Mermaid, Tiger Saw is perfect. Plus the Mermaid has a great beer selection, a new wine list and recently hired one of the town's best bartenders, Aaron Buell.
About once a year, this local rock mainstay ventures into the world of country music -- and by country music, I mean Merle Haggard, not Shania Twain. I've been told there's usually a large turnout for these shows, so arrive early. Rumor has it some special guests will be on hand to assist with the the show. These town gossips have also said the guys in Shuttlecock like to dress in costume on occasion, so expect some finely embroidered apparel.
Posted by blamontagne at 04:38 PM | Comments (1) January 19, 2006
What is this?
It may be cold out, but Magnum will keep you warm.
According to the Portland Press Herald, city officials have limited the number of full service bars in the Old Port in hopes of cracking down on crime. The thesis is, fewer bars, fewer drunks. Fewer drunks, less crime. Reporter Kelley Bouchard writes: Many residents questioned whether reducing the number of liquor licenses would have any effect on the number of bar fights, assaults and drug violations in the district. Still, a majority of councilors decided to back the proposal from Councilor William Gorham, who originally wanted to lower the cap to 22 licenses. "The more outlets for alcohol . . . the more crime you're going to have," Gorham argued. "We have to begin somewhere . . . I'm trying to make Portland a safer place." Count me in with one of those many residents. When you're a destination, yes, there might be more drinking related incidents, but if you want to make money off of tourism, you have to pay to keep things above board. Then I read this little tid-bit, which really got me: Police statistics provided to the council showed that the number of full-service bars in the Old Port dropped to 21 in recent years, while the total number of calls for police service, both inside and outside bars, increased from 196 in 2003 to 297 in 2005. Now wouldn't one infer that having fewer bars increases crime? Well, not exactly. Officials say the increase in crime reports is because they beefed up patrols in the Old Port. This crime crack down may seem like a good start to solving a long-term problem, but the councilors feel these extra patrols are simply a drain on resources. A bit too hasty if you ask me. How about giving the crack down some time to crack down? Anyway, I know that New Hampshire does liquor licenses a little differently, but I can't help but wonder if we tried to do something like this is Portsmouth. Would there still be a mix of places to drink or will we eventually be stuck with a city full of Tequila Jack's or would the trend fall more in line with the Red Door. Who knows? What I do know is that if I go to Portland, I try to stay away from the Old Port. There are so many other places, particularly on Congress Street, that are way better than Kelley McMulligans or the million other Irsih pubs down there. While there is a need to clean up that area, I'm not sure limiting furture business owners is the way to go.
Posted by blamontagne at 06:07 PM | Comments (4) January 16, 2006
Still on the Legislative TipI personally don't care either way. I do think it's gross when I wake up after a night out, feeling a little hung over, and my hair reeks of an ashtray. I hate wearing a brand new shirt out on the town only to send it to the dry cleaners the very next day because it's covered in smoky stank. And I can only imagine what effect the smoke has on those poor bartenders and servers' who work in a smoking establishment but choose not to smoke. Since it is the season for introducing bills, I thought I'd continue highlighting the new legislation that could effect local night life. (And thank you Rachel Forrest for bringing it up after my last entry.) I know it's boring, but everytime I go out, someone asks me about it, so here's the info: Tomorrow at 10 a.m. in the Concord Legislative Building, the state House Commerce Committee will be holding a public hearing on House Bill 1177, otherwise known as the restaurant smoking ban bill. I speculate this public hearing will be heavy on the pro-smoking ban side. Indulging in cigarettes has become so frowned upon in recent years, I can't imagine anyone, besides a dive bar owner perhaps, who would ask the government to continue to allow smoking in eating and drinking establishments. I personally don't care either way. I do think it's gross when I wake up after a night out, feeling a little hung over, and my hair reeks of an ashtray. I hate wearing a brand new shirt out on the town only to send it to the dry cleaners the very next day because it's covered in smoky stank. And I can only imagine what effect the smoke has on those poor bartenders and servers' who work in a smoking establishment but choose not to smoke. Regardless of these downfalls, I don't think there should be a law prohibiting smoking indoors. There are plenty of choices in Portsmouth, Dover and other restaurant towns in the area. If you don't like smoke, don't go to a smoky bar. While I prefer not smelling, I really hate trying to spend quality time with friends, particularly in the winter, if everyone is coming in and out of the bar all night on smoke runs. If the goal is to make people quit, then go for the ban. Chances are people will be so put out by continually having to leave their drink and smoke outside in 17 degree weather that they'll eventually quit. If it's just a financial issue, perhaps we should give individual business owners, and individuals, a chance to decide for themselves.
Posted by blamontagne at 02:23 PM | Comments (1) January 13, 2006
Drink age debate again?Okay, I thought we had settled this debate already. People who are 18, 19 and 20 are too irresponsible too drink. It has proven with studies and experience, so why is Portsmouth state Rep. Jim Splaine raising this issue again? Well, it's the old too young to drink, but old enough to kill argument for military personnel. Splaine, who is sponsoring a bill that would allow those in the military over the age of 18 drinking rights, argues that not allowing soldier to drink after we have put them in harm's way is disrespectful. He also says that it's wromg to criminalize underage drinking for that age group because it leads to unsupervised, and more irresponsible, drinking. Valid points, I have to say. I just wonder if during this debate, people are asking how this will change the drinking and bar atmosphere in the state. Will New Hampshire become a military destination, a soldier's Cancun, if you will? I'm not quite sure how I feel about that. I guess I've always found this pro-military drinking argument a bit silly. Yes, they are old enough to defend our country, by force if necessary, but they can't have a cold brewski after a long day of work? That's an understandable question, but you can start having kids at 12 and 13. Child rearing is a vast responsibility, so should we allow teens with kids to drink? I doubt that's a good idea. I read a letter to the editor that suggested limiting military service to those over 21. Fine solution to this debate, but so unlikely I can't even fathom an analogy to put it into perspective. Why don't we talk about why teens, and many adults, feel the need to drink five, six, seventeen drink in one night? Why is it so cool to get so wasted? That seems like the worthy debate, but I don't think "Life Free of Die" New Hampshire will bring that up for quite some time. Posted by blamontagne at 09:53 AM | Comments (6) January 03, 2006
2006One of the guys there had a picture of a steak on his T-shirt and kept pointing at it, saying, "It's a piece of meat! Get it? A piece of meat!" Yeah, we get it. I just want to announce before I head into my New Year's re-cap, that my little sister just had a baby boy. Connor Joseph Marquette was born at about 7:40 p.m. on New Years Day. Since then, I've been spending most of my free time at the hospital, competing the other aunts and uncles to get in some cuddling time with the new baby. This New Year's Eve went far better than expected. My friends and I spent the night hitting a series of downtown Portsmouth parties. Although she told me not to mention her, Kristin, you threw one heck of a New Year's bash. The hot wonton apps were delicious and the drinks were ever-flowing. There were tons of cool people there and I felt relaxed even though I didn't know everyone. When the ball finally dropped, the New Year was ushered in with style thanks to her, Cam, Tom, Chris, Carson Daly and Wanda Sykes. Shortly after midnight, my friends and I left to stop by a few parties on our way back home. But at each place we went, the party-goers seemed drunker and drunker, peaking at our last stop which consisted of three completely wasted dudes sipping off of a Red Hook stout keg and a girl passed out on the couch. One of the guys there had a picture of a steak on his T-shirt and kept pointing at it, saying, "It's a piece of meat! Get it? A piece of meat!" Yeah, we get it. All in all, I'm looking forward to 2006. I have a new nephew to spoil, a few weddings to attend, a vacation to Vancouver lined up. There are a few things I'd like to see happen, especially in this town which has so much potential, but I'll save that for another day. Until then, I'll take this opportunity to relax, recoup from the remnants of my hangover, and head into another year of work. Posted by blamontagne at 01:21 PM | Comments (0) December 31, 2005
stiffedAlthough I made a promise, I am temporarily foregoing my 2006 wish list to complain about an entry I saw in the Herald Portsmouth Police Log. On December 27, this caught my attention: 9:18 p.m.: A High Street caller reported that a large group who dined at a downtown restaurant had paid their tab, but not the gratuity included on the bill. Police learned that the menu does not advise of a mandated tip for large parties and the waitress did not inform the customers in advance. I know I wasn't there and that I didn't get to see what kind of service this stiffed waitress provided, but unless she was spouting obscenities and neglected to bring any of their drinks or food, this inconsiderate party should have paid the gratuity. I've bitched about this before and I'm sure I'm preaching to the choir here, but let me reiterate; when you dine out at restaurant, you are essentially renting that table for the length of your stay. You are also paying for someone to bring you your food, instead of cooking it or picking it up yourself. If this party had left even part of a tip, that would have been acceptable, but nothing? That just makes you look like a jerk, I don't care how crappy the service was. I have certainly had my fair share of terrible service, but I never stiff. I could leave a huge pile of change or complain to the manager or decide never to go back, but walking out on a gratuity that's added to the check, that takes nerve. Anyway, happy New Year and have fun this evening. I am finishing up a story on Portsmouth First Night and hoping to make it home in time to get a nap in before I go out. I did manage to find a few parties, as I had hoped, and almost all of them are within stumbling distance from my house, a nice bonus since it is really cold out tonight. If the festivities stink, you'll be sure to hear about it, and if they're a blast, let's hope I can remember enough to fill you in on Monday. Cheers! Posted by blamontagne at 05:20 PM | Comments (3) December 30, 2005
Has anyone seen my Yeti?Everytime this year I begin to panic. What on earth am I going to do on New Year's Eve. Not one to plan far ahead for anything, I typically wait until everyone else tells me which party they'll be attending and I merely show up, bottle of champagne in hand. In years past, this plan of attack has worked very well. Ask any twenty-something in town and they'll probably tell you they have a similar strategy. Since I moved here in 2000, the cool people in town always seem to show up at the same spot around 10:30 p.m. There's dancing and drinking and around midnight people go nuts and spray champagne everywhere, someone knocks the stereo over and ... well you get the gist. But this year, only a day away from the event, instead of picking and choosing which party I'll be attending when celebrating the new year, I am desparately walking up to friends around town, at work, in the bars asking, "What are you doing for New Year's." Most of them just shrug and say, "I don't know. I guess I'll figure it out." I blame this lack of get-togethers on 2005, the year of the mass exodus from Portsmouth. People always come and go and then come back again, but it seems this year, the numbers were unusually high. I spoke with a New England demographics expert a few weeks ago, and he let me know my New Year's Eve option are unlikely to improve. Since 2000, about 10,000 peoplem between 18 and 35 have moved out of Rockingham County. With the young fleeing, who will throw me the outstanding New Year's bash I desire. Certainly not me. Have you ever had to clean up after a party like that? There is First Night Portsmouth, but since I am assigned to cover it for the Herald, I'll stay away from editorializing on that event. Even if I decide to spend the night on the couch, watching Regis (ick!) and sipping drinks with my boyfriend, that will be fine, but if I stumble upon a great house party on my way back from a Cabot Street beer run, that would be even better. By the way, the local comedy group, Stranger than Fiction, will be holding a Yeti Hunt throughout downtown Portsmouth starting at 11 p.m. tomorrow night. What is a Yeti hunt, you ask? Well, aparently, there will be some big guy dressed in a furry Yeti suit running around, trying to escape a group of people dressed as hunters. I say the hunt sounds like a great idea. Anytime you can cause a little confusion in mayhem in the square on a crowded evening, I say go for it. Posted by blamontagne at 11:09 AM | Comments (2) December 26, 2005
Auld Lang SyneSend wishes to my seacoast online e-mail by Friday. I will give you my list and highlights from those sent in by Saturday morning. Cheers! The holidays kicked my butt this year, leading to little socializing and a lot of sitting on the couch, napping and catching up on my reading. Now that Christmas is over, I've begun reflecting -- some might call it obsessing -- upon last year, likely prompted by the 9 zillion 2005 year-in-review countdown shows on TV right now. I've decided that in order to let the past go and move into next year with optimism, I will post a New Year's wish list, asking for things I'd like to see come to Portsmouth, Dover and the rest of the Seacoast region in the next year. Because the things I most desire are pretty boring (will someone, for the love of God, open a freakin' cool rock venue in Portsmouth already?!) I figured I'd ask you what you would like to see come to town in the upcoming Year of the Dog. Posted by blamontagne at 03:28 PM | Comments (0) December 14, 2005
Happy Birthday to Me
Today, I am officially one week away from my birthday and since I have half of next week off, I am still trying to figure out exactly how to celebrate. I have been very good this year, not blabbing to everyone that December 21 is my birthday, but one can only have so much self control. Being a Christmas baby, I was often overlooked on my birthday. The low point was my 14th birthday, when all my friends forgot because it was the same day as the holiday party at school, then my mom made me clean the house before the relative came into town for Christmas and once they arrived, no one seemed to care that I hadn't gotten to open any gifts or eat any cake. Looking back, my Sixteen Candles-esque experience seems like 14-year-old over-dramaticism, but it did change how I approach my birthday. For about 8 years, from the day after Thanksgiving until my birthday, I would tell just about everyone I knew, "Hey, my birthday's coming up!" Pretty annoying huh? I guess I'm doing it again, but this time, I'm looking for suggestions. What should I do for my birthday? I got four days to celebrate, so I need some help. Posted by blamontagne at 04:47 PM | Comments (1) November 13, 2005
Banana's Last Stand
When I first read this article I thought the same thing most of you probably thought, which was: 1. Who threw this party? 2. Why didn't I know about it? Because the police didn't arrest anyone and it's not part of the public record, I guess I'll never know, but I'm determined to find out who it was, one way or another. Not to say I would have attended an illegal party like this. That's the last thing I need -- getting busted by the Portsmouth cops across the street from my place of employment. Speaking of things that are busted ... Did anyone attend the last night at Bananas? I've heard a few rumors, but nothing I can hang my hat on. I'm dying to know if Portsmouth's premire night spot went down in a blaze of glory or if it fizzled like a wet sparkler. Posted by blamontagne at 09:14 PM | Comments (0) I've been gone but not forgotten?It's been over a week since I put up my last entry, I know. There has been so much going on I really haven't had enough time, or energy, to get it all down. |
