Director Allen Clements first discovered the Chameleon Club while touring in a band. The club had such an impact on him that he quickly realized a need to document everything the club was and had to offer so that others could discover it as well.

Making The Chameleon Club Documentary took Allen 5 years to complete. Using everything from posting flyers to harnessing the power of social media he was able to gather an immense amount of old footage, photos, and music from band that played at the club including bands like Live & Suddenly Tammy. Compiling that all down to a one hour film is no small feat, but with the help of his team at PostageVFX and a group of passionate community members the project was wrapped up.

The film is available online through Amazon.com. Check out the trailer below and make sure to leave a comment with your favorite memory from the Chameleon Club by February 4th, 2012 to be be entered into the contest to win a copy of the documentary.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: An Other Side by Xenyka

The Story Behind The Chameleon Club Documentary appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Dance Envoy’s “Dance With A Mission” is the brain child of Michelina Piazza and Alyson Grine. Different from traditional class formats, Dance With A Mission seeks to teach children and adults good technique and strong self-esteem without all the fluff. We sat down with Michelina, founder of Dance Envoy, to hear more about this unique approach to dance instruction.

Fostering children’s creativity is important, because it builds self confidence, Piazza says. If you were a fly on the wall in one of her ballet classes, you would see a strong emphasis on technique. In the latter part of the session, however, focus shifts to a more light-hearted and creative approach. The students may be required to take what they’ve learned and include those elements in their own choreographed piece while trying to express a concept or a feeling through their dance. This is called creative movement. In addition to ballet and creative movement, the dance company also offers instruction in hip hop and lyrical, as well as some adult classes.

Michelina grew up loving dance, and from the age of three, that is what she aspired to do. She found ways to incorporate dance into so much of her life’s activities. She has spent time living and working in Boston, Philadelphia and New York, and abroad in Italy. As exciting as her travels have been, Michelina has decided to bring her gift back to Lancaster County, PA. Piazza herself favors contemporary and world dance and it shows in her approach to teaching. Dance Envoy presents 12 week sessions which allow more flexibility for other school commitments and activities. Michelina and her staff bring a strong and seasoned, yet free and fun-loving approach to dance instruction, but they hope you’ll come and see for yourself.

Classes are offered at the Linden Hall Dance Studio facility in Lititz, PA. For more information on classes and pricing, please visit www.danceenvoy.com. You can also “Like” them on Facebook.

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books, & Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: An Other Side by Xenyka

Michelina Piazza Dances With A Mission appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Theatre for Transformation is about just that: being transformed. For Dr. Amanda Kemp, it is a process, one that she hopes will affect the viewer as much as if affects the participants. “Theatre for Transformation…encourage[s] people to remember, forgive and to create something new.” Founded in 2007 by Kemp, the company seeks to address the hardships of historic African-Americans through drama and to bring healing and personal growth to current generations. Dr. Kemp writes most of the productions herself and performs in them as well. She talked with us about her own transformation of thought while producing the plays and how she worked through some of her own prejudices in the process.

Two 1-act plays will be performed this month at Millersville University’s Ware Center. One of the plays, Sister Friend, follows the life and writings of Phillis Wheatley. The second play, Show Me the Franklins, will be presented for the last time on January 28th, after running for four years. Both productions are approximately 30 min in length. For more information on upcoming performances and how to reserve tickets, visit www.theatrefortransformation.org.

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books, & Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: An Other Side by Xenyka

Dr. Amanda Kemp & The Theatre For Transformation appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Jenny & Tyler have a personal relationship and a professional relationship.  Largely, the two of those are one and the same for this traveling folk/rock duo. When it comes to the music, they have a give-and-take approach to writing their songs and they share the spotlight equally. Both Jenny and Tyler come from very musical backgrounds with a wide variety of influences ranging from classical to country. If you listen to their past projects you can hear how their sound has evolved and how they have gradually rounded each other out. They talked with us about trying to find their identity and feeling like they’ve finally begun to “settle in”. Many of the songs that have made the cut present very intimate and personal themes about life and faith.

Based out of Nashville, Jenny and Tyler are making the rounds on the house concert circuit. We caught up with them while they were playing a show at Burlap and Bean Coffee in Newton Square, Pennsylvania and got to hear two of the songs from their latest album, Faint Not. You can check out their tour schedule and download music at www.jennyandtylermusic.com and keep up with they’re journeys by liking them on Facebook.

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books, & Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: An Other Side by Xenyka

The Musical Bond of Jenny & Tyler appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

This episode we break out of the geographical box going north and international to talk with Alex Yu of the increasingly popular YouTube commentary, Ragin Ronin Review. Alex lives in Vancouver and joined us via Skype to give us a picture of how he got started and what it’s like to be an internet celebrity.

Beginning with Iron Man 2, Alex decided to start giving commentary on movies, one of his passions. He started to gain popularity when he built up hype for the Transformers 3 trailer. He filmed his reaction when it finally was released, and that video has now had over twenty thousand views.

Although reviewing movies and shopping for memorabilia is what put Yu on the map, he has a professional life that’s pretty interesting as well. Alex became interested in video production at a young age when he saw some of his friends making homemade kung fu videos. He decided he wanted to do it for a living, and sold all of his toy collection to raise money for the equipment he would need. Advertising, weddings, events, and more, Alex enjoys producing for work and for play.

He’s learned a lot from his video posting experiences. Being yourself is important when putting yourself out there for the world to see. Get comfortable with the camera and be as natural as you can, Alex says. People seem to go for down-to-earth, honest commentary over big flashy effects. And, it would seem, that reality TV still sells. It connects with people.

Get in touch with and follow Alex:

• Ragin Ronin Review on Youtube
• Email Alex 
• Twitter
• The Ragin Nation on Facebook
• Ragin Ronin Productions on Facebook
• www.theraginnation.com (coming soon in 2012)

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books, & Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: An Other Side by Xenyka

Ragin Ronin Alex Yu appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

The door is shutting on 2011, but we’ve jammed a foot in the doorway to keep it open just a little longer so we can bring you The Best Lancast Moments of 2011! On this special episode Keith and David count down their top five moments from the year and play a track from their favorite musical guest. Previous co-host Daniel Klotz also takes some time to share some of what he thought were the most impactful moments while he was co-hosting the show durring the first half of the year. Links to all the episodes we talk about can be found bellow.

Happy New Year to you, our awesome listeners!

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books, & Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void

The Best Lancast Moments of 2011 appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Christmas has come early this year on The Lancast. We share our holiday spirit by bringing you two season themed stories.

The first story is Pennsylvania Dutch Night Before Christmas written and narrated by Chet Williamson, published by Pelican Books. And our second story is Presence by Janean Burkholder and Jason Deeds and is the featured holiday offering over at Gloaming Gap.

We hope you enjoy this short festive episode and from all of us here at The Lancast we wish you a happy holidays!

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books, & Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void

Christmas With The Lancast appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

It all started in the eighth grade, when Chris Newcomer was first introduced to the idea of screen printing. Chris is the owner/operator of BigPlanetApparel, a screen print shop based here in Lancaster, PA. After the initial spark of interest struck in junior high, he took a few classes in high school and learned the basics. After that he became something of a Renaissance man, dabbling in various professions ranging from construction to cooking, and everything in between. Fifteen years and seven jobs later, Chris finally decided to take the plunge and go into business for himself. It took some time to accumulate all the gear he would need, but he now runs a successful screen printing business in addition to his other full time job.

On what it’s like to work for yourself, Chris says, “When you run your own business, you get to do [everything].” You see the process from start to finish instead of just contributing one small piece to the puzzle. That’s a positive way of saying you have to do all the work. Chris doesn’t seem to mind though. He’s put in a lot of time working for “the man”. Now he’s finally doing something he loves and he’s doing it for himself.

To find out more about BigPlanetApparel, contact Chris at 717-283-6827.

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books, & Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: An Other Side by Xenyka

It’s A Big Planet For Apparel appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

OperaLancaster is really starting to come into its own, thanks to the efforts of some dedicated people like Josh Rinier, the opera’s managing director. The non-profit organization has been in existence since 1952 and has presented opera to Lancaster, PA every year since then. OperaLancaster is primarily made up of volunteers, people who are committed to furthering the arts in the surrounding community and to developing their own skills as performers. They perform at various locations such as the Fulton Opera House, the Roschel Performing Arts Center at F&M College, and the Ware Center at Millersville University.

Josh talked to us about the misconception that one has to dress to the nine to attend an opera performance. He says it’s not uncommon to see visitors come in jeans or casual street clothes. Though opera is one of the older forms of entertainment out there today, it is gradually evolving with the times. Josh hopes to see the age spectrum of their audience broaden with the implementation of new projects such as The Community Opera Series. These productions were developed with the intention of attracting a younger, more diverse crowd. It’s casual, more frequent, and affordable. And coming in April 2012, Opera Week will kick off in Lancaster with lectures, singing in the streets, and a grand gala event commemorating their 60th year.

Just because OperaLancaster is taking a more contemporary and informal approach doesn’t mean they lack in quality. They are the only opera company between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia and people travel from neighboring states and counties to participate in their productions. In some cases, professional paid singers are brought in to fill a difficult role. Focusing on fund-raising, development, and impacting the community around them, the organization is shifting into the higher gears. Keep looking for good things to come from Opera Lancaster.

To learn more, visit www.operalancaster.org or email Josh at jmrinier@gmail.com.

Box Office: 717-872-3811

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books, & Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: An Other Side by Xenyka

Take A Look And Listen In with OperaLancaster appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

When Erica Millner and her partner came to live on West King St. in Lancaster, PA, it was difficult to connect with the neighbors on any level. But after bringing the Inside Out Project to the neighborhood, there seemed to be a significant change in that respect.

Inside Out is a global art project that displays large black and white images of everyday people in public places. The project is designed in a way that makes it very easy for people to participate all over the world. Images can be uploaded to the project website and prints are made and sent back to be mounted and displayed for the public. Erica approached her friend, local photographer Jenny Schulder Brant, about assisting her in photographing some of the people in her neighborhood. What transpired after that was inspiring, to say the least. People who would never talk to her before started saying hello and bringing people by to see the pictures, which she had pasted to the outside of her house. The art project seemed to act as a catalyst relationally and brought a sense of pride to the people who live there.

Erica and Jenny’s art project was one of five Lancaster groups fecatured in a recent Lancaster County Community Foundation lecture called “Aha Moments”. They have plans for many more arts and community-building projects in the future. If you’d like to contact either Erica or Jenny, or find out more about the Inside Out Project, you can do so at one of the following links.

www.facebook.com/emillner, emillner@facebook.com, www.jennyschulder.com, jenny@jennyschulder.com, www.insideoutproject.net

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books, & Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: An Other Side by Xenyka

Public Art From The Inside Out appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Waking up paralyzed from surgery wasn’t the first time Angie Piazza had faced physical hardship, but she certainly hadn’t anticipated this outcome or the impact it would have on her everyday life. What she thought would be a four week recovery has become a two and a half year process of relearning to do the most basic things, like sitting up or using a pencil. With the help and support of some very special people in her life, she has been able to heal and was motivated to write a book about her experience.

Angelina was diagnosed with Morquio syndrome as a child, a disease that effects the growth and development of the bones and spine. It affected her walking and she eventually needed a wheelchair to help her get around. She talked with us about what it’s like living with a disability and how she relates to others around her. Children tend to be more forward and come right out and ask about her wheelchair. Adults are generally much more timid, not wanting to draw attention to a possibly uncomfortable subject. Angie has learned how to “steer” people though. She doesn’t let her disability define her and she has a gift for making people feel at ease when she’s around. You don’t have to be with her long before you don’t even notice anything different. Angelina Piazza is a pretty amazing woman when it comes right down to it, and she is most definitely buoyant.

You can read her memoirs in her self-published book “Buoyancy” which will release on December 31, 2011 and be available for purchase on Amazon. If you would like to contact Angelina, you can find her on Facebook or email her at angelinapiazza@gmail.com.

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books, & Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: An Other Side by Xenyka

The Buoyancy of Angelina Piazza appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Ken Mueller has worked in various branches of communications for the last 30 years including radio, public speaking, marketing and social media.  He started Inkling Media in 2007 and eventually went full time, assisting local businesses with their social media marketing needs. Ken explains that social media marketing is important because it is so different from other types of media.

Radio, print, and television communications exist for the purpose of entertainment and information. Social media exists primarily for relationships, which are ongoing. Because of the relational community aspects of things, like Facebook and Twitter, social media has in many way a much higher impact. Just like social media has completely changed the way we communicate, there also needs to be a totally different approach to marketing these new platforms. That’s where Ken comes in. He services clients by educating them about social media, teaching them how to use it, getting them set up, and helping them build new marketing strategies.

In addition to Inkling Media, Ken  also teaches at local colleges on various media/marketing related topics. If you would like to find out more about Ken and what he does, visit www.inklingmedia.net or email him at inklingmedia@gmail.com. You can also check him out on Facebook and follow him on Twitter.

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books, & Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: An Other Side by Xenyka

An Inkling of Social Media Knowledge with Ken Mueller appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Aimee Ketchum, a pediatric occupational therapist, joined us to talk about early childhood development and her DVD series that she produces under the name of Aimee’s Babies. Aimee’s main goal through Aimee’s Babies is to educate as many new parents as possible about what they can expect for their child’s development. Her DVD introduces parents to baby massage and the developmental phases of the senses, balance and motor skills in early childhood.

Why baby massage? Baby massage can positively impact a baby’s motor skills, balance, body awareness, immune system, and sleep. It can also help to calm colicky babies. Aimee encourages parents to be aware; “Early child development is very highly variable, so don’t obsess about chart standards” she says, “What is important is that your child is continuing to reach milestones consistently and not skip any. Each phase is important to their growth and development now and in the future as well.”

Aimee is currently working on another DVD for toddlers with yoga that is scheduled to release by the end of this year. In addition to her DVD productions, she has four apps for the iPhone to assist parents with baby massage and other developmental topics. She blogs and writes a bi-monthly article for Fine Living Magazine and lectures at hospitals and colleges. Aimee’s Babies was also featured on the Rachel Ray Show and listed as one of Rachel’s top five must-haves for your baby.

For more information please visit Aimee’s Babies online and on Facebook

Special thanks to Becky Svendsen for being our guest co-host while Keith is on leave to celebrate the birth of his fourth child.

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books, & Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: An Other Side by Xenyka

Childhood Development Through Massage Therapy appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Writing, rehearsing, and performing a play in a 24 hour period might sound more like a reality tv show than something you would see in a theater, but Steve Carlson and Jason Mundok are doing just that. The 24 Hour Plays is a production that began in Manhattan back in 1995, and has since gained increasing popularity across the globe. Carlson and Mundok are bringing it to Lancaster, PA this coming Saturday, November 5, 2011 at The Candy Factory.

The process begins with 6 writers who select from a pool of actors. They each write a 10 minute play through the night to be handed to a director in the morning. The directors then assemble their cast and spend the day rehearsing for the 7pm performance. No pressure. Mundok describes the production as “creative chaos”. No doubt it will be, with everyone’s creative juices flowing full speed ahead.

The collaborators of the project are Steve Carlson, Jason and Susanne Mundok of Woodstove House, and The Creative Works of Lancaster. Carlson, a junior high teacher, incorporates drama into his lessons regularly and thoroughly enjoys theater. Mundok is no stranger to the performing arts himself, though not specifically drama. He is a musician and member of the local Irish band Fire in the Glen. Additionally he hosts a podcast called Around the Woodstove and has hosted house concerts in his home for the last two years. Together, along with a group of about 35 people, Steve and Jason hope to bring something new and energetic to the Lancaster performing arts scene. Come see for yourself this Saturday at 7:00pm at The Candy Factory, 323 North Queen St., Lancaster, PA 17603.

For tickets and more info, click here.

Special thanks to Becky Svendsen for being our guest co-host while Keith is on leave to celebrate the birth of his fourth child.

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books, & Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: An Other Side by Xenyka

A Community Plays with Time appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Matt and Natalie Thomas of (mattnnat), a husband and wife photography duo, have a knack for capturing people’s good side: in image form, that is. Matt and Nat started out four years ago almost by accident when a friend asked if they would take photos at a family member’s wedding. They reluctantly agreed and purchased a digital SLR camera to do the job. Now they make their living by documenting special occasions and making people look beautiful on the other end of the lens.

Matt and Nat met while volunteering in Australia. They fell in love, married and moved back to the states. They now make their home in downtown Lancaster, PA. Not only does this couple love what they do, but they love that they do it together. Their strengths and weaknesses seem to balance each other out, they say, and that has proven to be the right equation for success.

Something close to Matt and Nat’s hearts is telling peoples’ stories. Pursuant of their belief that everyone’s story is worth telling, Matt and Nat maintain a blog that does just that. Using both text and imagery, the team tries to capture the essence of the individuals and relate their life experiences in a truly meaningful way. This philosophy carries over into their professional work as well. They strive to really capture who their subjects are and bring out the little details of their personalities with a little bit of added flare. Matt and Nat put a lot of emphasis on getting to know their clients before a shoot and creating a comfortable, relaxed environment where the client can be themselves. For this couple, photography isn’t just a profession, it’s a way that they can connect with people on a deeper, more personal level. It’s about capturing love and life.

To find out more about (mattnnat), visit them online at one of the following:

mattnnat.com, Blog, Facebook

Special thanks to Becky Svendsen for being our guest co-host while Keith is on leave to celebrate the birth of his fourth child.

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books, Pennsylvania College of Art & Design, & Lapp Structures.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Original Piece by Keith Slesser

On the Other End of the Lens with (mattnnat) appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Bryan Rutt has always been a writer of some sort, but when he started his blog almost three years ago, he found a reason to keep writing. The blog, entitled, That’s What I Was Going to Say, has afforded him a platform to discuss what he likes and provided him a way to relate to other people, many of them total strangers.

Rutt covers all sorts of topics, from baseball to pop culture to creative writing. But a topic he’s begun to explore more and more are the personal struggles he deals with on a regular basis. At first, it took some time for him to get up the nerve to post something so personal. Finally, he decided to take a chance with his post Table for One, where he talks about the difference between being lonely and being alone. Pleasantly surprised by the amount of positive feedback he received, Rutt was encouraged to continue and has openly discussed dealing with such issues as OCD and anxiety. Overall, the response has been very positive and the blog has begun to foster a sort of camaraderie between writer and reader alike. “Sometimes just knowing that you’re not alone is the best medicine…There are people who I can actually reach out to…who understand,” Rutt says.

Another topic of great interest to Bryan is music. Growing up with two music-loving parents, he was exposed to a wide array of musical genres and there was always something playing in the background. “New Wave for the New Week” appears every Monday on the blog and features a music review/write-up on something from Bryan’s extensive music collection. He loves having the chance to introduce people to material they may have not heard before.

If you’d like to follow Bryan’s blog, (and we think you should), you can find his musings at:

www.bryanrutt.blogspot.com

www.facebook.com/twiwgts

www.twitter.com/twiwgts

Special thanks to Becky Svendsen for being our guest co-host while Keith is on leave to celebrate the birth of his fourth child.

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books, Pennsylvania College of Art & Design, & Lapp Structures.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Original Piece by Keith Slesser

That’s What I Was Going to Say, Bryan Rutt! appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

For Aaron Gotwalt, there seems to be a constant stream of ideas that flows from him. While most people are saying, “wouldn’t it be great if…” he’s saying, “how can we make this happen?”. When Aaron gets a concept for something, he talks about it as if it’s already a reality. He spoke with us via Skype from his home in San Francisco about one of his ideas that did become reality, the company he cofounded, CoTweet.

It started off as an idea for a Facebook application that would let people organize their wardrobes online. He and partner Kyle Sollenberger worked for months making connections with people in the fashion industry and working out a business plan. While trying hard to put all the pieces together, they realized they were having a breakdown in communication when it came to their shared Twitter account. One never knew what the other was doing, or which business contacts the other had responded to, so they set out to build a product that would keep track of all their business correspondence on Twitter. As a result, CoTweet was born. Their product proved to be a great success, and in 2010, the company was acquired by Exact Target in Minneapolis.

Another one of Aaron’s recent projects that we discussed is “World Poopin’ Day”. The event was inspired by the Facebook prank of updating someone’s status to “Poopin”. He figured if something so harmless and silly could get so much attention, why not use it to bring attention to the very real problem of sanitation in Africa and beyond. By partnering with charity groups such as Charity Water, Water.org, and Give Love, they were able to create a vehicle to bring awareness to internet users about the need for clean water and direct funding to the organizations devoted to making that happen. “Sanitation is one of those things that needs innovative thinking about how to talk about it,” Aaron says.

Now that the baton has been passed to the new owners of CoTweet, Aaron has some time on his hands. The wheels are already turning about what he could do next. But after working 24/7 for the past few years, it seems like a good time for a breather. What’s the next step for Gotwalt? He’s going to go climb a mountain.

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books, Pennsylvania College of Art & Design, & Lapp Structures.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Original Piece by Keith Slesser

Aaron Gotwalt and the Business of Tweeting appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Pinball Massacre is a successful freshman video game project for the Mac and iOS platforms from PostageVFX. The creative team of Joseph Krzemienski, Courtland Ellis, and Riley Hearn share about what kind of things go into making a game a reality and what tricks they used to make Pinball Massacre stand out from other pinball games.

It all started when Riley, who worked to create the objects in the game, approached Joe and Courtland with a skeleton of a pinball game to see if they would like to tie it into their Stabb Gunner graphic novel. Jumping at the opportunity, they began designing the  visuals that would overlay the board as well as a tie-in to Stabb Gunner. The game isn’t just themed to match the graphic novel, it’s actually a plot point in the story functioning as a pinball tournament on the scale of the superbowl, according to the team.

Joe describes the overlaying theme of Stabb Gunner as a revenge story with elements that you won’t see anywhere else, such as a chainsaw sword and a character that wears a stuffed bear as a costume. Courtland draws inspiration for the art in the series from his many influences, some of which are behind the animation in Ben 10, Samurai Champloo, and many more. As for the coloring, Joe says he takes the colors to where they hurt to look at and then dials it back from there so that the world feels saturated with color. If you’d like to read Stabb Gunner you can catch the first issue at The Fictory Comics.

You can download Pinball Massacre on iTunes.

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books, Pennsylvania College of Art & Design, & Lapp Structures.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Original Piece by Keith Slesser

Creating A Pinball Massacre appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

When Erik Ewing started the Definition Collective, he envisioned a place where people could come and be heard. He wanted to create a “church” that was less about the program and more about the conversation. After 18 years in traditional church ministry, he started to think that maybe church could look different and that maybe some of the traditions of the past century weren’t as life giving as they claimed to be. After meeting regularly with good friends and family and easily falling into spiritual conversation, the group decided it was worth starting something new to foster this idea of candid exchange.

Erik doesn’t really consider himself a pastor, but more of a facilitator or “custodian” of the DC’s gatherings. He sees himself as an equal participant in a setting where everyone’s viewpoint is valid and everyone’s contribution is valuable. The Definition Collective isn’t just about discussion, though. In the wake of recent flooding in the area, some of their group could be seen pulling waterlogged debris from houses to the curb and helping with clean-up in a local park. “Community is a huge thing for me and for what the Definition Collective is and stands for…we’re really trying to focus more on that idea of being a part of the community,” says Erik.

Another way the DC looks to connect with the community is through a monthly arts initiative they call “Live at the Hub”. On the first Saturday of every month from October to May, they host a live music event and feature local artwork on display. The goal is to foster a communal space for people to not only experience others’ art, but to also to be inspired to create their own. Erik has many ideas for what The Hub could be, but it all revolves around community actively contributing, creating and learning together. It seems that might be what this “church” thing is really all about.

The Definition Collective meets on the third floor at 25 E. Main St, Manheim, PA on Sunday mornings at 10:30. To learn more about the DC or “Live at the Hub”, you can contact Erik or visit the website at the information listed below:

• erikewing@yahoo.com
• 717-575-1087
• www.definitioncollective.com

Defining A Collective with Erik Ewing appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Lancast photographer Quin Baker joined us this episode for an impromptu discussion about current events happening in and around Lancaster, and elsewhere. A self-taught free-lancer, Quin is one of the newest members of our crew. She lives in down-town Lancaster and joins us weekly behind the scenes to capture images of our guests and contribute some of her humor and artistic flair. To read more about Quin and see some more samples of her work, visit her tumblr page at http://quinbaker.tumblr.com/.

Some of the topics we covered this week are:

• The recent flood waters in Lancaster County
• The recent earthquake on the East Coast
• Food Stamps and Fast Food
• Apple, Google, and cell phone technology
• Health and Nutrition in culture

Checking The Headlines with Quin Baker appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Poetry Paths exists to facilitate connections through poetry and art, according to founder Kerry Sherin Wright. We had a chance to catch her vision for the program while recording the show at the Pennsylvania College of Art & Design. The college is one of Poetry Paths’ first “site partners” throughout the city to house permanent works of art that are built around original pieces of poetry. We were present for the official unveiling of their piece, a ceiling mural created by collaborative artist group Root 222 and featuring the masterful writing of poet Mary Szybist. Also joining us in the first half of the show were Mary Colleen Heil, President of PCA&D, and Tracy Cutler, Chief Communications Officer at Lancaster County Community Foundation. Together they told us about how each of their organizations plays a role in promoting the arts in Lancaster and how they are all supportive of the overall vision to see this become an increasingly viable part of the culture here.

For the second portion of the show, we talked with all of the artists who collaborated on the piece, which features the poem by Mary Szybist entitled “All Times and All Tenses Alive in this Moment”. Mary, an English professor from Portland, Oregon, told us the piece is about “trying to work with faith and doubt simultaneously”. The poem is arranged in a sunburst pattern to suggest that all the phrases in the poem are modifiers of the main idea. The reader is then able to begin at any point in the poem and still grasp the depth and meaning in the words.

From a visual aspect, the solar form became part of the design almost right away. Since the poem was already arranged in the shape of a sun, the design came together fairly quickly. The group spent about 6 days working on the mural, with a good chunk of that time dedicated to painting the text.  Root 222 is made up of Anthony Mark, Schon Wanner, and Derec Hettinger. The guys were roommates while studying at PCA&D. They seemed to have an almost supernatural artistic connection between them, and it continues to run strong, years after they’ve graduated. They don’t spend too much time worrying about who will do what on a project. They just go with it, and everything tends to fall into place.

All four artists agree it is a thrill to have their work displayed so permanently for the public to enjoy. As Schon puts it, “At the end of the day, you’re still a little kid that says, ‘can you put this on the fridge?’ This is like the biggest fridge in town.”

You can email Kerry Wright at Kerry.sherinwright@fandm.edu and Mary Szybist at szybist@lclark.edu.

Check out Root 222 at their website www.root222.com or root222@tumblr.com.

We want to give a special thanks to PCA&D for letting us use some of the photos taken during the event for this post.

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books, Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Original Piece by Keith Slesser

A Poetic Path for Public Art appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Michael Hoober, the man behind the Rumschpringe Film Festival wears many hats, but everything he does focuses on bringing positive change to Lancaster. Rumschpringe is one such venture and the event is approaching its fourth year of existence this fall. This year, the festival will feature 62 short films in 6 categories, totaling more than 14 hours of content. Michael told us about some of the films that won last year’s festival and what new things we can expect to see there this fall. This year’s festivities will be held over two weekends, September 30 thru October 2 at the  Stahr Performing Arts Center, and October 7-9 at Tellus 360.  For this year’s festival, Hoober plans to have a larger screen and possibly a new projector, and is hopeful that the fall weather will be a bit more appealing than 2010’s June heat. The event is still in need of sponsorship and Hoober is hoping to gain some ground with the assistance of MOOSE, the Mayor’s Office of Special Events, and Kickstarter, an online fundraising program.

The name Rumschpringe comes from a German word which literally means “to jump around”, but locally, it has traditionally represented the period of time in an Amish adolescent’s life where they go out and experience the world  before making a decision to settle down and officially join their community. So for Michael, the word is more of “a movement of sorts in adolescence”.  Hoober’s mission through Rumschpringe is to reach out to Lancaster’s “disaffected youth”. He envisions creating a more loving and accepting community for all races, religions and lifestyles.

In addition to being a film festival coordinator, Michael is also a therapist, a teacher and a counselor in his professional life. He talked in depth with us about some of his work and his vision to see a lot less damaged and hurting people in our community. He is in the process of developing Rumschpringe ADVR (Applied Developmental Vehicles and Research). He wants to take traditional counseling and make it relevant for the real world. His new office will be housed at 237 N. Prince St, Suite 202 in Lancaster. If you want to find out more about what Michael does as a therapist, or how you can sponsor his upcoming festival, you can visit his website, www.rumschpringe.com or email him at contact@rumschpringe.com.

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books, Pennsylvania College of Art & Design & In HIS Name HR.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Original Piece by Keith Slesser

The Vision of Rumschpringe with Michael Hoober appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

This episode we talked with local composer Rusty Banks. Born in 1974 in Alabama, Rusty comes from a very musical family. He picked up his first guitar at age ten, and by junior high, he had discovered classical style guitar. By the time he went to college, he knew composition was his niche and he worked hard to distinguish himself as a composer. Banks likes to incorporate pop music into his compositions and he uses modern affects like cd playback and multiple cell phones to create sound delays.

We asked Rusty about the different approaches one could take to writing a piece of music and he told us about his own processes for producing a finished product. Often, he writes a piece for its sound rather than thinking of it in mathematical terms. Most of his creative processes are deadline driven and he says if it was not that way, he might never completely consider a work “finished”.

Banks’ music has been performed not just locally, but all over the globe. Having such a unique style, he says that sometimes you need to take the music to the people. His works have been performed in New York and Los Angeles and as far away as Italy and China.

We got to listen to two of Rusty’s compositions, “Babbling Tower to Tower”, and “Slit” as performed by his wife Christy.

To hear additional samples of Rusty’s work, visit his website at www.rustybanks.org. His music is available for purchase on Amazon and iTunes, and you can also follow him on Facebook and Twitter.

Daniel Klotz filled in as co-host for Keith Slesser this week.

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books, Pennsylvania College of Art & Design & In HIS Name HR.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Original Piece by Keith Slesser

Composing the Story of Rusty Banks appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Spenser Brossman of Complete in Box took time away from his newly opened game store to talk gaming, collecting, and business with us. Though Complete in Box has only been open for a few weeks, Spenser is already seeing repeat customers and he’s attracting new business all the time.

Spenser started in the gaming business while in college, working for his local Game Stop. After a few more jobs and a college education, he decided to take a risk and go out on his own. He’s had no shortage of support from his friends and family either. Even now, weeks after he’s opened, friends stop by and offer to help clean up used merchandise or sort through his latest flea market finds. Though Complete In Box specializes in retro systems and games, they also carry the latest and greatest products available. You can preorder most anything, and Spenser plans to hold midnight releases for some of the more popular products scheduled to hit the market.

Spenser Brossman Comes Complete In Box appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Mark Griffin of In HIS Name HR has had the opportunity to work for some very large and well- known companies as well as some smaller, more modest set-ups during his career. During that time Mark learned and perfected his trade under the wing of some very talented and successful people who were willing to share their knowledge and get him started on the right foot. It wasn’t until the significant downsizing of the Kodak Company, where he was working in 2004, that Griffin decided it was time to move his family back to Pennsylvania to get a fresh start and settle his family near where he grew up.

Since starting In HIS Name HR, Mark has focused not only on the basic values of the HR field, but also tailored his approach to fit a niche market here in Lancaster County, the Christian-run business. He says he considers himself a partner to the businesses he works with because he strives to understand and anticipate their needs and genuinely cares about their profitability. It’s about becoming a part of the team instead of just another overhead expense. Griffin believes that the success of a company rides on its ability to totally integrate its mission, vision and core values into its everyday work processes. Having a faith-based approach seems to strengthen this practice and helps to bring like-minded people together.

We talked with Mark about the toll the economy has taken on the leadership aspect of businesses today. Spending cuts have reduced or eliminated what used to be years of training for up and coming management personnel and many of them just aren’t qualified to handle the workplace situations they find themselves in. Employees are starting to lack faith in the companies they work for, and Mark says one of the most valuable things a company can do right now is offer positive encouragement and guidance to the people who make it happen every day.

As for Mark’s company, In HIS Name HR focuses on authenticity, integrity, trust and stewardship. He stresses how important it is to work on the issues of one’s life outside of the workplace as well as within it. In HIS Name offers leadership training and development, communication training, basic HR programming and career coaching. If you’d like to meet Mark in person or find out more about what he can do for your business, call him at 717-572-2183 or visit his website www.inhisnamehr.com.

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books & Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Demain je change de vie by david

Learning About In HIS Name HR with Mark Griffin appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

We invited Lancaster Regional Medical Center CEO Bob Moore to talk with us about the hospital, its newest initiatives, and some of Bob’s personal history in the healthcare field.

A native of Quincy, MO, Bob began his journey towards a healthcare career as a dishwasher for a local hospital at the age of 16. He dreamed of becoming a doctor, but soon discovered that he much preferred the business aspect of the field instead. He made his way through college and filled many different roles before becoming the CEO of another Missouri hospital. All-together, Bob has been at the helm of 5 different hospitals over a 32 year span, and has recently made his home here in Lancaster to help steer LRMC on its path to greatness. We asked Bob how he feels about having so much competition throughout the county. “We’ve got 4 fine hospitals in this community, and each one of us has our own niche in what we provide… Competition is good because I think it raises the bar.” He told us about the Getting2Great initiative that HMA has launched to promote improved facilities and excellent care across their footprint nationwide.

Lancaster Regional has taken some big steps in the last few years to implement systems and technology that will further their ability to provide outstanding service and healthcare to their patients and emphasize the value they place on everyone who walks through their doors. Some of these initiatives include services like their Emergency Care which you’ve probably seen advertised on a local billboard around town. LRMC refers to its Emergency Room services as ER Extra which puts a high priority on keeping patient wait times to a minimum. Their current wait times are being posted on their digital billboard displays as well as several online applications available for download. Additional new technologies we discussed include the MAKO Orthopedic Robot and the DaVinci Surgical System, both of which are still cutting edge in this neck of the woods.

Along with new technology, LRMC has begun to put a higher emphasis on community involvement and company participation in programs such as United Way and Heart Walk, both of which Bob personally takes part in. He also serves on the board of an organization known as the Downtowners which promotes downtown living and involvement by and for local retirees.  The hospital has recently begun a program where they work with local employers to institute workplace wellness programs promoting good health, which in turn saves those companies on their healthcare costs and contributes to more positive work environments.  All of these things are ways Lancaster Regional is reinvesting in and reconnecting to the community that they exist to serve. Though at one time, LRMC may have been viewed as just a shell of its past, this Lancaster hospital is now taking a strong step towards the future; a better future for the company and its employees, and a better future for the community they serve.

www.lancasterregional.com

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books, Pennsylvania College of Art & Design & In HIS Name HR.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Original Piece by Keith Slesser

Bob Moore of Lancaster Regional Medical Center appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

We sat down with Rose Principe and AJ Nutter of Painted Desert Gallery this episode. Together with Carol Emerson, the two collaborated to open an art space in the city that featured more modern and contemporary subject matter that might be a bit more edgy than what you’d normally find downtown.  The gallery space debuted in August 2009 with an exhibit featuring AJ’s late father, David Nutter’s photographs, taken during his last trip out west. Since then, the gallery has gained popularity among the trio’s friends and acquaintances, and has become a space for the not-so-conventional artist to showcase their work. Some of the things you may find on a visit to Painted Desert include abstract and modern art, collage, photography, video, sculpture, and installation art; a process in which the artist actually assembles a three dimensional piece onsite to convey a certain concept or idea.

Rose, herself, is a painter.  She works primarily with oils and has gathered inspiration from abstract expressionists like Francis Bacon, Wassily Kandinski and Arshile Gorky. In addition to the gallery space, you can also find examples of her work on her website and Facebook page.

AJ’s art takes many forms, including photography and videography. He is also a composer and told us about his ambitious endeavor to write a complete musical score for Alfred Hitchcock’s film, The Birds. The score is scheduled to be released on vinyl October 7^th, 2011. You can catch clips of AJ’s handiwork on his website and preorder the record here.

Being from two different artistic genres can create an interesting dynamic and we asked how they manage this dynamic living under one roof. They also told us a little about their work spaces and how they’ve been influenced by one another’s art.

The gallery will be celebrating its two year anniversary in August and will be hosting a special First Friday event featuring a long list of contributing artists. The show will be open August 5, 2011 from 5-9pm.

Painted Desert Gallery is open on First Fridays during the warmer months of the year and also by appointment. For more information, visit them on the web at www.painteddesertgallery.com or http://www.facebook.com/PaintedDesertGallery.

Support for this episode provided by Winding Way Books & Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Demain je change de vie by david

An Oasis in The Painted Desert appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

This week the Lancast hosted local band Symphony of Sound. They share about their beginnings, their recent self-titled release, and some of the inspiration behind their lyrics.

Symphony of Sound first came together to perform at a talent show at band front-man Tyler Benner’s high school. The name was chosen more out of necessity than inspiration, but it seemed to stick, so they went with it.  In 2009, they decided to take it to the next level and began regular jam sessions to develop their sound.  All of the guys grew up with a love of music and a few of them got their start leading worship in their local churches. Faith is something that has stuck with them through the years and it shows in the lyrics and themes of their songs. Though they wouldn’t necessarily consider themselves a “Christian” band, those themes are still close at heart.

Symphony just released their first album on June 27th  of this year. All together they spent about 6 months recording, though the project has been in the works for much longer. By the time they were ready to record, they had perfected their set list and pretty much knew where they wanted it to go. “It’s pretty awesome actually…just like, having a physical copy of what you’ve created yourself.” says Drummer Matthew Blank, ” It’s cool to know you’ve accomplished something and gotten to the point where…it’s done.”

They all seemed pretty excited to be finished with the project and are already looking forward to the next one. You can purchase their new release on iTunes and CD Baby.  Also check out their Myspace and Facebook pages. Symphony of Sound is Mitch Meador, AJ Lehman, Matthew Samuel Blank, Tyler Benner, and Mitch Ebersole.  Album Cover Art by Drew Winey.

Support for this episode provided by Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Demain je change de vie by david

Sound Off with Lancaster’s Symphony of Sound appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

“I have a tendency to take the indirect route,” says Melody Williams. It’s that tendency that led her to the name of her shop, Winding Way Books, which now makes its home at 106 W. Chestnut Street on Gallery Row. Williams has had a great love for books from a young age and dreamed of one day owning her own book store. With the help of ASSETS Small Business Center, she got the support that she needed and was able to make her dream a reality. Despite the recession, she took a risk and started by selling books online and running a stand at Saturday’s market. As her business grew, she was able to move into a permanent location and make the shop her full time occupation.

Dealing in new and used books, Melody hosts special events and participates in First Friday festivities.  She seems to have a knack for bringing the community to her doorstep. People love what she’s doing and they keep coming back. There is something for everyone at Winding Way, and it’s worth a meander downtown to find out for yourself.

Support for this episode provided by Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Demain je change de vie by david

Hitting The Books with Melody Williams appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

We had the pleasure of hosting our third annual episode with Penn Ketchum and the management team at Penn Cinema. The result was a jovial round table discussion about the best/worst movies of the year, some added humor and commentary in between, and what we’re all looking forward to next at the box office.

Penn talked about the process by which he decided to build the IMAX theater and the frustration he felt from naysayers along the way. But in spite of the negative comments he received, the cinema, with the help of Warfel Construction, met their deadlines and the IMAX theatre has proven to be a success.

We discussed the current trend in super hero themes and got to hear some of Penn’s ideas for events in the upcoming fall season. He even asked us what our personal choices would be for Monday Night Movies, which will most likely start back up in October. Joining us in addition to Penn were some of his crew, the folks who make it all happen; Mike Spence, Kenny Wenditz, and Sarah Neff.

Thanks to all who participated and to Penn Ketchum for having us back to the cinema for yet another entertaining episode of the Lancast.

Support for this episode provided by Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Demain je change de vie by david

Movie Talk with the Team at Penn Cinema appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

This episode we had the opportunity to hear from Dave Ranalli, owner of Stitches Comedy Club, which operates out of the Lancaster Host Resort. Dave is a native of western Pennsylvania, but has owned and operated his business in Lancaster County for the last 23 years. He was educated as a pharmacist and managed the pharmacy at CVS for 8 years before taking over the family business, The Italian Villa, because of his father-in-law’s illness.

Dave saw potential for growth, but was unsure of how to bring in more business for the restaurant. It wasn’t until he took a trip back home in 1988 that he discovered the incredible opportunity there was to be had in the comedy industry. At that time, there wasn’t any other entertainment happening along Lincoln Highway, and comedy was a new concept in Lancaster County. Dave had the good fortune of hosting Drew Carey for the opening night of his new venture.  It was the perfect set up for success, and ever since then, Stitches Comedy Club has drawn a crowd.

Dave is a gifted story teller and it was great fun to hear him recount some of his experiences over the years. Stitches is yet another example of the many unique offerings to be discovered right here in Lancaster.

At the time of the recording of this episode Keith was celebrating Fathers Day with his family, so David flew solo as host.

Support for this episode provided by Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: An Other Side by Xenyka

Stitches Comedy Club, Lancaster’s Source for Laughs appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Have you ever decided to try something completely new just from having a casual conversation? That’s what happened to this week’s guest, Bill Caloviras. Through conversation with a friend, he heard about the 2500th Anniversary  of the Athens Classic Marathon in Greece, where his family is from, and decided to participate. Having never run a marathon before, he knew he needed to educate himself on what it would take to prepare. Bill told us how, through forums on the web, he was able to connect with other runners and learn more about this challenging sport. He even conversed with Dana Carvey’s brother!

We also talked about Bill’s hobby-turned-business, photography. He’s always had a love for the arts and saw what could be accomplished with a camera as a child. He was inspired to buy his first camera two years ago and continues to enjoy capturing people and landscapes. He has started to take engagement and family shots and he is also a second shooter at weddings for photographer Keith Scotten of k*sco studios. He would even like to incorporate photography and video with his newest hobby, motocross.

A man of many interests and talents, we were glad to have Bill Caloviras on the show.

Support for this episode provided by Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: An Other Side by Xenyka

Marathon Man Bill Caloviras appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Bob Shank of Shank’s Tavern in Marietta was our guest on this episode. He spoke with us about the long history of Shank’s going back to its origins in 1814, then known as “The Compass and Square”. The Shank family purchased the tavern in the 1930′s and Bob is the third generation of his family to own and operate it.

Bob told us a few captivating ghost stories from his childhood, as well as an interesting tale about a buried treasure that disappointingly has never been found. He also spoke to us about the live music nights the bar hosts, including folk and blues open mics. It’s an old time neighborhood bar that features high-end tequilas and friendly staff.

Shank’s Tavern is located at the corner of Front and Water St. in Marietta. You can reach them by phone at 717-426-1205

Support for this episode provided by Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: An Other Side by Xenyka

What are your thoughts about this episode? We welcome your responses in the comments below.

Shank’s Tavern, An Old Time Neighborhood Bar appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

This week we spoke with local indie folk artist Ben Rothermel. We conversed about his passion for music and what inspires him to write it. Ben went to school for music where he learned about song writing and how to define his sound. He also tells us about his upcoming release “Blue or Green”, an album influenced by his relationship with his wife. Ben had compared himself to Bob Dylan without the cigarettes, but now he realizes he doesn’t fit that mold anymore.

Support for this episode provided by Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: An Other Side by Xenyka

What are your thoughts about this episode? We welcome your responses in the comments below.

Ben Rothermel, He’s Like Dylan without the Cigarettes appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Another “headlines” show from The Lancast.  It worked so good the first time we figured,”why not do it again?” School budgets, sports mascots, and even the recent Apocalypse are a few of the topics we cover in this informative episode.

Sadly this was Daniel Klotz’s last episode. he gives us a tearful farewell as he moves on to new and exciting things. Fortunately this show also happens to be Keith Slesser’s debut on The Lancast. Keith brings new insight to the show and we look forward to seeing how The Lancast will evolve with a new voice in the mix.

Support for this episode provided by Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Rumba Sudamericana by Paco Santiago
Hey There Daniel written and performed by Matt Wheeler

What are your thoughts about this episode? We welcome your responses in the comments below.

Headlines: A Trail Blazed For The Next Journeyman appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Setting out to preserve hometown communities Arcadia Publishing’s Images of America books work to make hometowns historic. Looking to feature a Lancaster County area they turned to local writer Cory Van Brookhoven to cover Warwick Township.

A third generation local historian and having written several books and articles involving history in Lancaster County, Cory was ready to take the challenge. He shares with us how he collected not only great images for his book but also captivating stories to accompany them.

Born and raised in Warwick Township, Cory still lives within a few miles of it’s boundaries. He tells us about his hopes that the book will benefit his community and how half of his proceeds are being donated to the Lititz Library.

Purchase Cory’s Book Online

Support for this episode provided by Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Flamenspace by Löhstana

What are your thoughts about this episode? We welcome your responses in the comments below.

Putting Warwick Township on The Literary Map appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Tom Knapp is a man who lives and breaths journalism. Ever since the sixth grade when he had to do an interview for his class newspaper Tom knew journalism was what he was going to do with his life. Now after nearly twenty-eight years with the Lancaster Newspaper, Tom shares with us what the life of a local journalist is like.

A little over ten years ago Tom started combining his love for music and books with journalism and started the review website Rambles.NET. What started as a small project for him and his friends to write on now has over three hundred contributors and almost fourteen thousand reviews. Tom tells us about how he got the site up and how it’s grown.

We also talk a little bit with Tom about his love for and playing of Irish music and his band Fire in the Glen. During this portion of the show Tom mentions previous guest Jason Mondok.

Support for this episode provided by Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Flamenspace by Löhstana

What are your thoughts about this episode? We welcome your responses in the comments below.

Getting The Inside Scoop with Tom Knapp appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Josh and Trista Lamb the dynamic duo behind The Beggar Folk take some time to talk to us this week. They share with us how they’ve made the transition to full time musicians over the past year and a half and what exactly that entails from day to day. We also learn about how Josh and Trista found themselves in Lancaster and why they’ve chosen to make this their main stage.

You may notice that we didn’t get as in depth about their music specifically as we do with some musical guests in this episode. That’s because we’d like to refer you to an interview Josh and Trista did with another great Lancaster based podcast, Around The Wood Stove. Host Jason Mundock talks with them in detail about their debut album and the inner workings of their songs. You can find their episode here.

Contact or Book The Beggar Folk: thebeggarfolk@gmail.com
Buy the album on iTunes

Support for this episode provided by Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Flamenspace by Löhstana

What are your thoughts about this episode? We welcome your responses in the comments below.

Chumming Up With The Beggar Folk appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

In this episode we sit down for a conversation with Tom Baldridge and Cheryl Irwin, president and vice president of The Lancaster Chamber of Commerce & Industry, the professional association of 2,500 businesses across the county.

Earlier this spring The Chamber unveiled its strategic plan for the next three years, and in the fist half of the show we talk about that plan as a whole and focus in on the soon-to-be-launched “Buy Local” campaign.

In the second half, Tom explains the details of The Chamber’s sustainable cities initiative, which is uniting chambers that represent Pennsylvania’s third-class cities (which are all cities except Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Scranton). Together the coalition will advocate for reform in state control of the cities’ activities.

For more information about The Lancaster Chamber, visit their website, which includes bios of Tom and Cheryl. In the show they also invite Lancast listeners to give The Chamber a call at (717) 397-3531.

Additionally, you can find The Chamber on Twitter as @Lanc_Chamber and on Facebook.

Support for this episode provided by Lapp Structures and Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Dans un petit verre d’eau by David

What are your thoughts about this episode? We welcome your responses in the comments below.

Tom Baldrige & Cheryl Irwin of The Lancaster Chamber appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

No one can deny that Youtube shows are getting more and more popular. So popular in fact that Youtube decided to put on the Digitour, a national tour of some of Youtube’s most popular musical acts, which made a stop at the Chameleon Club in Lancaster on April 29th. Featured at this stop of the tour was Barely Political’s popular song parody series The Key of Awesome. We were fortunate enough to talk via phone with writer and performer for The Key of Awesome, Mark Douglas.

Mark fills us in on what the Digitour is and how it may be changing the game for Youtube musical acts to take their show on the road. He also shares how he made the transition from stand up comedian to parody song writer and performer as well as the process of making The Key of Awesome videos.

To see the videos for the Key of Awesome songs we play durring this show follow the links below:
Jennifer Lopez On The Floor ft. Pitbull PARODY! – Key of Awesome #37
Bruno Mars Grenade PARODY! Key of Awesome #35

If you’d like to see more Key of Awesome as well as other hilarious videos featuring Mark visit Barely Political’s Youtube Chanel.

Some video David took of the Key of Awesome live at the Chameleon Club can be found here.

Support for this episode provided by Lapp Structures and Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Dans un petit verre d’eau by David

Mark Douglas Only Writes Songs In The Key Of Awesome appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Bryan Stahl, president of Fidelis Home Mortgage is our guest this week.

Bryan tells us about the Fidelis 5k, which last year raised $10,000 for Arbor Place in Lancaster and aiming even higher this year.

Support for this episode provided by Lapp Structures and Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Dans un petit verre d’eau by David

Bryan Stahl of Fidelis Home Mortgage appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

You can contact Barry Via:

Email
Twitter
Linkedin

Or stop in his office at: 1848 Charter Lane, Lancaster, PA 17601

Support for this episode provided by Lapp Structures and Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Dans un petit verre d’eau by David

Barry Davis, A Guide in Career & Life Transitions appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

We’re joined this week by Sean Cavanaugh, chef and co-owner of John J. Jeffries, a restaurant in Lancaster serving delicious seasonal, sustainable food.

Sean mentions the Weston A. Price Foundation as a key resource in helping him develop his philosophies about food and nutrition. Other resources Sean discusses:

• Lancaster Buy Fresh Buy Local
• Local Harvest
• Eat Wild
• Real Milk

You can also connect with John J. Jeffries on their Facebook page.

Support for this episode provided by Lapp Structures and Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Dans un petit verre d’eau by David

Cooking Up Conversation with Sean Cavanaugh appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Chrisie Santoni and Craig Smith of The Billies are two people with a charged passion for what they do. Setting out to spread the relaxing vibes of their “low country groove” music The Billies are constantly on the move. With all they’re journeying they’ve found that they have a connection with the up and coming nerd subculture. Inspired by the grandfather of Nerdcore, MC Frontalot, The Billies are on the front lines of a new niche in the genera, Nerdgroove. We go more in depth about their inspirations and genera classifications in the first half of the show.

Taking things in a whole different direction with their music Chrisie and Craig also write kids songs. This processes came out of Chrisie’s desire to teach a music class for children. Now well into writing music for and teaching kids about music they have started Dancing Bears Music and sell interactive DVD’s for kids. In the second half Craig and Chrisie share more about this as well as about why they moved to Lancaster and what they love about this area.

To find out more about The Billies visit:

The-Billies.com
The Billies Facebook Fan Page
Dancing Bears Music Website

Support for this episode provided by Lapp Structures and Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Good Day by Triplefox

Getting To Know The Billies appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

This rarely happens, but our arrangements for a guest this week fell through at the last minute. So we try something a little different: an episode where it’s just David and Daniel, reviewing the big news stories right now in Lancaster, and also reacting to Mashable.com’s article,
“7 Tips for Launching a Successful Podcast.”

Topics include:

• 7 Deadly Tavern, previously known as Gusto’s
• Summer paving projects in the city
• Zap & Co. and Steve Murray
• Marcellus Shale natural gas drilling
• Barnstormer’s baseball

We did this episode sort of on the fly, and we’re interested in your feedback. Would you like a “Lancaster in review” episode like this every month or two? If so, what would you like to hear in those episodes?

Support for this episode provided by Lapp Structures and Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Good Day by Triplefox

Lancaster Headlines from David and Daniel appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Jeremy Walter sits down with us to talk about the work he is doing in financial planning and his plans to start a church in Lancaster city.

You can get in touch with Jeremy through the following sources:

Twitter
Facebook
Jeremy’s Blog
Email

Support for this episode provided by Lapp Structures and Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Good Day by Triplefox

Breaking The Bank With Jeremy Walter appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

We’re joined this week by Rob Pianka, a business coach with the Lancaster office of ActionCOACH, which was recently named the franchise’s top office of the year.

Find Coach Rob on LinkedIn or his section on actioncoach.com.

Support for this episode provided by Lapp Structures and Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Good Day by Triplefox

ActionCOACH Rob Pianka appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

We’re joined this week by Bill Lascek-Speakman, one of three core members of Second Sky, a band with a new album, “Art of Influence,” forthcoming on the Rhythm & Culture label.

This episode features two tracks from the band, “Too Far” and “Hundred Million Sounds,” used with permission of the band.

To hear more of the band’s music and to join their mailing list, visit the Second Sky official website or find them on Reverb Nation.

If you haven’t connected with The Lancast on Facebook, please take a moment to like us to hear about our schedule of upcoming guests on the show.

Support for this episode provided by Lapp Structures and Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Mariguanioum by Crackin’ Rubato

Looking Towards A Second Sky appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

The totalitarian regimes of Egypt (now deposed) and Iran depend on the ability to limit their people’s access to the Internet. The harder it is for people to communicate, the harder it is for them to coordinate and revolt.

United States citizens like Lancaster resident Paul Rothrock have been helping citizens of Egypt and Iran get around those government filters by setting up “SSH tunnels.” Paul is a freelance Web application developer. His business is Iceland Consulting. He joins us this week to explain how and why he has been giving access to residents of Egypt and Iran.

For more of Paul, find him on Twitter (and other social networks) as Icelander.

For more about SSH tunneling, Paul recommends these resources:

• How-To: SSH tunnels for secure network access from Engadget
• The Tor Project, an encrypted anonymizing tunneling protocol

Support for this episode provided by Lapp Structures and Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Mariguanioum by Crackin’ Rubato

Paul Rothrock Joins the Egyptian Revolution appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Our youngest guest yet, Chad Hamilton shares with us what life is like as a 19 year old in living in Lancaster county. Graduating high school last year Chad now attends The Art Institute of York. Along with his schooling he also works at the Park City Mall. We talk about how the mall scene has changed since David and Daniel were wasting their weekends away there. Later in the show we talk about the Twitter scene and how it has changed over the last three years.

You can follow Chad on Twitter: @poservarial
Chad can also be found on Xbox Live as A Whale Jocky

Support for this episode provided by Lapp Structures and Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Mariguanioum by Crackin’ Rubato

The Youth in Revolt with Chad Hamilton appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Our guests on the podcast this week are Jack and Mary Beth Shenk, owners of Flowers By Paulette in Lancaster city. We talk about their purchase of the business in 2006, the flower shop’s growth, and how they’re giving back to the community through support of charitable organizations.

For more on Flowers By Paulette, visit these Lancaster florists’ website or find them on Facebook.

Support for this episode provided by Lapp Structures and Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Mariguanioum by Crackin’ Rubato

Flowers by Paulette, Making a Street Corner Bloom appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

February is Children’s Dental Health Month, so we’re joined by local dentist Dr. Ron Reinmiller, who has had his own practice in Landisville for twenty-four years. It’s easy to see that he has a passion for improving people’s lives through dentistry.

For Ron, dentistry isn’t just cavities and fillings. It’s a key component of complete health, with the ability to help people have greater self-confidence, sleep better, and—particularly through the treatment of sleep apnea—address diseases including depression, coronary artery disease, and diabetes.

In addition to educating us on dental technology and sleep apnea treatments, Dr. Reinmiller tells the story of Quin Baker, a 20-year-old Lancaster resident who lost her teeth in a car accident when she was 15. He is donating his services to give her dental implants, since she has outgrown her temporary denture and the insurance claim is no longer covering her medical expenses. Her friend Matt Deterior, a graphic designer, is hosting a fundraising event/auction at The Candy Factory later this month to cover the rest of her expenses.

For more information on Dr. Reinmiller, visit LancasterOATS.com. Or visit his Facebook page for a $25 gift certificate for new patients.

Here are a few resources Dr. Reinmiller mentions:

• Sleep quiz – American Academy of Sleep Medicine
• Sleep apnea self test – American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine
• Obstructive sleep apnea info – Sleep.org

Support for this episode provided by Lapp Structures and Pennsylvania College of Art and Design.

Be sure to visit our sponsor Lapp Structures this weekend (Feb. 11–13) at the Suburban Pennsylvania Spring Home Show. It’s at the Lancaster Convention Center and admission is free. They’ll have special deals, so be sure to tell them you heard about them on The Lancast.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Mariguanioum by Crackin’ Rubato

Lancaster Dentist Ron Reinmiller appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Mike Witmer, creator and artist behind the web comic Pinkerton, gives us an inside look into what inspires him. We talk about his artistic direction as well as what it’s like to keep up with writing comedy for a three time a week strip.

When asked to describe what Pinkerton is about Mike replies;

“I really don’t know. Sometimes it’s a statement of what’s going on in the world, whether it be pop culture, politics, or just plain old stupid people. Sometimes it’s a little preachy and long winded. Sometimes it even takes a tug at your heart strings. But most times, it’s about four furry animals sitting around a bar in the middle of the woods getting drunk.”

You can read Pinkerton at PinkertonPark.com as well as at through the services at Go Comics. The Pinkerton books are available for purchase through Th3rd World Studios.

Support for this episode provided by Lapp Structures and Pennsylvania College of Art and Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Mariguanioum by Crackin’ Rubato

Mike Witmer Introduces His Friends From Pinkerton Park appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Lancaster resident Chad Diller has been a guest on the Howard Stern Show doing an impersonation of John the Stutterer. We talk about that experience and also about his business, U-Stickit Graphics.

• Chad’s Stern-focused Twitter account: @bizarrochad
• Chad’s business Twitter account: @ustickitgrpx
• U-Stickit Graphics website

Support for this episode provided by Pennsylvania College of Art and Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Light Inside by Oleg Serkov

Chad Diller, a Lancasterian on Howard Stern appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Justin Rule, founder and executive director of Heads Up Lancaster, joins us to talk about how the nonprofit organization connects school-age youth in Lancaster County with professional artists in the area to experience urban arts hands-on.

From left: Justin Rule, Karlo Gesner, Michael Malone

Justin also invited Karlo Gesner to join him, since Karlo is an artist mentor (in photography) with Heads Up Lancaster. Karlo conversed with us about photography in his own episode in March 2010

Karlo, in turn, invited stand-up comedian Michael Malone to come on the show as well. Mike isn’t connected to Heads Up, but he was in Lancaster for the first time this week for a show at Stitches Comedy Club, where he met Karlo.

Connect with Heads Up:

• Heads Up Lancaster website
• Heads Up Lancaster Facebook page
• @HeadsUPdate on Twitter

In this episode we also talk about another Heads Up mentor artist who previously appeared on The Lancast: Vinny Smaldone, a.k.a. DJ Image.

Justin tells us about how Heads Up is spreading to York, Washington D.C., and Detroit. He also shares the announcement that Heads Up Lancaster will be opening a physical location, an urban arts center, this year.

Support for this episode provided by Pennsylvania College of Art and Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Light Inside by Oleg Serkov

If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to subscribe to The Lancast on iTunes, and leave us a 5-star review there to help more listeners discover the shows. Thanks!

Heads Up: Connecting Youth with Urban Art appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Chet Williamson, board chair, and Lydia Brubaker, executive director, of Creative Works of Lancaster swing by to tell us about the organization’s winter production, Yule Laugh.

They also share about where Creative Works, which promotes the performing arts in Lancaster, is going in the future.

As mentioned in this episode, you can watch the full-length video of Sock Puppet Psycho on the Creative Works website.

Sign up for the Creative Works mailing list on their Facebook page.

Support for this episode provided by
Pennsylvania College of Art and Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Like King Cool in a Sunbed by Kämmerer

Yule Laugh with Creative Works of Lancaster appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Shane Graybill and Paul Lambert, singer and drummer for The Grim Wilderness, a “psych-blues” band with strong ties to progressive rock from the ’60s and current day, explain what it is that gives their sound such maturity despite only playing together for about six months. The band comes to The Lancast representing Stevens, PA, on the outer reaches of Lancaster County.

As soon as we heard the music these guys make, we had to have them on the show to kick of 2011 with a band. We’re sure you’ll love the music and the conversation.

This episode includes two of their tracks, “Soul Eyes” and “Beauty of Addiction,” which you can also hear and download from ReverbNation.

Support for this episode provided by
Pennsylvania College of Art and Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void

The Grim Wilderness was voted favorite guest of 2011 by our listeners!

The Grim Wilderness appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

With 2010 coming to an end and 2011 about to hit us in the face like a freight train with its breaks out, we thought we’d take a look back at our favorite moments from 2010.  In this episode we each list our top five moments and favorite musical performance from 2010. We hope you enjoy this look back. Links to the episodes we mention are listed below.

Daniel’s Top 5 Pennsylvania College of Art and Design’s Designathon Joy Ike and the Launch Music Conference Jeff Burkholder on Writing Web Comics Stoking the Wood Stove with Jason Mundok The Path of Policy with Representative Bryan Cutler Best Musical Performance: Joy Ike

David’s Top 5 Jerry Pinkney and Diane Edison visit PCA&D Going In Depth with Stephen Sarro and Justin Carroll Talking Movies with Penn Ketchum and Andy Tuzzino Facebook Extra’s The Sound and Fury of Erin Murray Best Musical Performance: Kheris

Support for this episode provided by Pennsylvania College of Art and Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void

Happy New Year to you, our awesome listeners!

Our Favorite Moments From 2010 appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Adam, Jen, Dave, and Chris, members of the Lancaster-based band AJ Grey, explain why their band doesn’t fit neatly into any genre, how their various talents and perspectives give depth to their songs, and what they do when they’re not making music. (Well, Dave is always making music, apparently.)

AJ Grey is
Adam Mentzer – Guitar & Lead Vocals
Jen Mentzer – Melodica, Bells, Keyboard, Vocals, & much more
Dave Donahue – Percussion & Vocals
Chris Hoyt – Bass

This episode features the band’s song “Main Street for Wall Street” which features Bradford Topping on the pedal steel guitar.

Find AJ Grey on Facebook and on YouTube.

Support for this episode provided by:
Pennsylvania College of Art and Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Victim of Crime by Heifervescent

Happy Holidays to you, our awesome listeners!

AJ Grey: Four People, One Band appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

The editor of a new magazine focused on sustainability and environmental issues within Lancaster County tells us how Lancaster Netzero came to debut last month and what’s in store for the future.

Dave Hessen has assembled a remarkable team of writers, photographers, and designers to cover, all in one place, what’s happening in environmentalism in our community. Print versions of the magazine are available for free in forty locations around the county, and the digital version is also available from their website. You can also connect on the Lancaster Netzero Facebook page.

The magazine features a regular column by past Lancast guest Jeff Geoghan, as well as photographs by recent guest Melody McFarland, who recommended that we invite Dave on the show.

Support for this episode provided by Pennsylvania College of Art and Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Victim of Crime by Heifervescent

The Lancast is a weekly podcast about Lancaster, PA. We welcome your comments and feedback.

Covering Sustainability in Lancaster appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

The minds behind Common Geek, Robert Beiler and Tommy Van Orden, explain what they’re doing online across a variety of media, and their vision for the future.

CommonGeek is a simple website with a simple goal, to unite the geeks of the world under one banner, as well as provide a place for news, reviews and entertainment.

Common Geek can be found on Facebook

Find Robert on Twitter as @RCBeiler, and Tommy as @OfficialTommyV.

The Common Geek guys can also be found on YouTube: Robert & Tommy

Support for this episode provided by Pennsylvania College of Art and Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Victim of Crime by Heifervescent

Common Geeks Robert Beiler and Tommy Van Orden appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Melody McFarland, a biologist who found her way into the shoes of a professional pet photographer, tells us what it’s like trying to capture amazing shots of hyperactive dogs and herds of goats.

Since Melody also works for Bird Rescue of York County, she shares the essential information about what to do when you find an injured or abandoned bird. As a volunteer, she photographs all the dogs for the Humane League of Lancaster County, so we ask her what one thing Lancaster residents can do to help the animals the Humane League connects with loving homes. Her answer surprised us.

We hope you had a great Thanksgiving! This year we are especially thankful for you—our listeners and sponsors.

Support for this episode provided by Pennsylvania College of Art and Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Victim of Crime by Heifervescent

Pet Photographer Melody McFarland appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Nate and Chris talk about their show at the Chameleon Club this past Saturday, November 20, 2010. It was Jonathan’s last performance with the band.

This episode includes two tracks, “Pen to Paper” (which gained national attention when it appeared on MTV’s “The Real World”) and “The Weight,” used with generous permission of the band.

Support for this episode provided by Pennsylvania College of Art and Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Dropping Out of School by Brad Sucks

The Mint Won’t Lose Its Flavor appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Matt Wheeler’s band, August to October, hasn’t completed its first album just yet, but that doesn’t mean he is lacking in musical material to share. He came to this Lancast recording armed with copies of his new solo EP, Ash, and Veritas: Volume 2, a collection put together by his eponymous faith community/church plant which meets in Marietta and Silver Spring.

We converse with Matt about his various music projects and collaborations, as well as his roundabout journey to Lancaster from northern Indiana, his perspective on the intersection of faith and art, and being a (relatively) new father. This episode includes live acoustic recordings of two August to October songs, “Ash Wednesday” and “The Light & The Sea.”

You can connect with Matt Wheeler on Facebook and Twitter.

Support for this episode provided by Frost Imaging and Pennsylvania College of Art and Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Dropping Out of School by Brad Sucks

Singer-Songwriter Matt Wheeler appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

You might call this Lancaster resident a serial entrepreneur. First she started Bliss bakery. Then she started a family. And this December her Christmas tree business starts selling trees in Lititz. We’re talking about Shanelle Lee (along with her husband Kris, of course).

(We should also give a shout-out that she’s also a graduate of Pennsylvania College of Art & Design, one of our current sponsors. Check out their range of continuing education classes for adults, pre-college, and youth.)

With daughter Harper in hand, she chats it up with us about mommyhood, the life of a professional baker (including her knack for dreaming up goodies like chocolate chip cookie dough cheese cake), and why raising 8,000 Christmas trees has turned out to be harder than she expected.

Be sure to check out the Bliss website and Facebook page.

Support for this episode provided by Frost Imaging and Pennsylvania College of Art and Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Dropping Out of School by Brad Sucks

Shanelle Lee: Baker, Mom, Christmas Tree Farmer appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

We decided to try something a little different and go on location this week. David and Joshua Fria (standing in for Daniel; pictured to the right) went to Penn Cinema’s midnight Halloween costume party.

The boys talk with passerby’s about the movies they are there to see and their costumes. Also we were the judges for the Best Costume, Evil Laugh, and Scream competitions.

We hope you enjoy this different episode. We’ll be back next week with a show more along our regular program style.

Support for this episode provided by Frost Imaging and Pennsylvania College of Art & Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void

Halloween Party at Penn Cinema appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

The last time we conversed with Brenda Boitson, it had been just ten months since she lost her husband Kevin to sarcoma cancer. She spoke candidly about her struggles as a young widow, where her community had both supported and failed her, and how blogging had turned from a means of communicating with family to a way to process her grief and connect with others in similar situations.

We invited her back, now a little over a year later, to tell us what it has been like re-entering the dating scene, evolving her blog, and working on a memoir.

The amount and depth of wisdom Brenda has to share is simply incredible. It was great to be able to sit down and listen to her insights and reflections at length, and we’re pleased to be able to share that conversation with you.

Support for this episode provided by Lancaster photographer Russell Frost

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Dropping Out of School by Brad Sucks

Brenda Boitson, a Widow Two Years Later appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Artists Diane Edison and Jerry Pinkney joined us this week from Pennsylvania College of Art & Design here in Lancaster to talk about the school’s Mosaic Project and their part in it.

Edison is a 2010 Fulbright lecturer, and Pinkney is the 2010 winner of the Caldecott Medal. It was a great privilege for us to have the opportunity to speak casually with them about their art and their two-day visit to PCA&D. Edison, a portrait artist, and Pinkney, a painter/illustrator, are world-class artists with too many interesting thoughts to touch on in half an hour. Among the topics we discuss is their perspective as African Americans on the multicultural aspect of the Mosaic Project’s purpose.

A note on the audio quality: Daniel goofed up and put an “input” plug into an “output” socket, so even though all four of us were holding individual microphones, the sound for this episode was captured by a single wide-area microphone. The conversation is still perfectly clear, and we worked to make it sound as good as possible. The biggest downside is that you’ll hear the clicking of SLR cameras in the background (but the upside is that those cameras captured some great photos of Edison and Pinkney). Thank you for your understanding and patience as we try to bring you the best-sounding episodes every week in our “spare” time.

A special thanks to Mary Stadden, Director of Public Relations at Pennsylvania College of Art & Design, for inviting us back to record this episode. (We were previously at PCA&D to record at the start of their anual AIGA chapter Designathon in February.)

Support for this episode provided by Lancaster photographer Russell Frost

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Dropping Out of School by Brad Sucks

Jerry Pinkney and Diane Edison visit PCA&D appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Phil Rohrer and Josh Loose talk about their Lancaster-based band, The Historic, which is celebrating their new album, The City of Promise, at a release party this Saturday evening at Folklore Coffee.

During the first half of the show we learn about how Phil took his solo singer songwriter project and tuned it into the folk band it is today. In the second half we discuss what’s up and coming for the band including their upcoming shows and their upcoming CD release.

TheHistoricBand.com
The Historic on Facebook

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Dropping Out of School by Brad Sucks

The Historic, or An ’istoric? appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Humor blogger Bryan Allain visits the studio this week. Bryan shares with us how he was turned onto writing and what drew him into the world of blogging. Now updating his blog five times a week, Byan explans just how he does it. We also learn about how important tact is when being a humorist, especially when poking fun at ones family or a conservative community. During the second half of the show Byan fills us in on some of his new projects such as speaking engagements, video production, and his new podcast The Fresh Pod.

I want to give a special thanks to Jason Mondok for sitting in for Daniel while he is on vacation. Jason is an arts enthusiast who runs the podcast Around The Wood Stove. Make sure to check out his show. Some of you might remember when he was on our show earlier this year, but you may not know we were on his show as well, so while you’re over there listen to our episode.

Links:

Bryan’s Blog

Bryan’s Mafia Church video

Around The Wood Stove

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Intro by The Bravery

Tapping The Funny Bone With Bryan Allain appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Jeremy Bentley and Jeff Burkholder are the creative minds behind the web comic The Ouro Bros. & The Never Ending Tour. For those of you who remember, Jeff has been on the show before talking about his other web comic Zoidland. This time around, Jeff takes a back seat in the art department and focuses on writing. Jeremy is left to deliver the comical drawing of Stan and Balthazar. These two goofy musicians are on a never-ending tour, exploring the country one gig at a time.

Jeremy explains that he came to the idea of doing a web comic after exploring the option of short animated web films. Realizing how much better a use of time and resources it was to convey a story using still images; it really wasn’t hard to see comics were the way to go. Jeff also tells us about how he goes through his creative process of writing the script, explaining that due to his lack of experience in touring with a band, he is heavily influenced by stories Jeremy tells him.

During this episode we talk often about Ken Mueller.

You can listen to his episode on the Lancast here

And our song about him here

Chad Diller’s song about him here

Links:

The Ouro Bros.

Inkling Media

U Stick It Graphics

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Intro by The Bravery

Brothers Of The Ink, Jeremy Bentley and Jeff Burkholder appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Lancaster city’s biggest events are brought together with the leadership or support of the Mayor’s Office of Special Events, cheerfully known around town as MOOSE. Jen Baker, the director of this nonprofit, talks with us about how the office got its start, the events it puts on, and their exciting plans for future growth.

The Mayor’s Office of Special Events can be found on Facebook and Twitter.

Thanks to all who participated in our August listener survey. If you’re interested in the results, we welcome you to check ‘em out.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void
Break music: Like King Cool in a Sunbed by Kämmerer

Jen Baker of MOOSE appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Erin Murray drives all the way from Evansville, Indiana to appear as this week’s guest. She’s a singer-songwriter who considers Lancaster County her second home. This episode features a live recording of “One Way Radio” and a studio version of her unreleased track “Beautiful Day.” You can learn more about Erin and hear more of her work on the Erin Murray MySpace page.

Whenever we have old friends on the show, the result is more fun and casual, and this week is no exception. We had a lot of fun conversing and we hope you enjoy listening.

Last reminder—if you haven’t yet taken a minute to complete our August Listener Survey, we would greatly appreciate if you did so now.

We’re lining up our fall schedule of guests, so now’s the time to let us know if you’re interested in sitting down to talk with us, or if you know someone we should invite. Just shoot David an e-mail at feedback@thelancast.com.

Finally, we can’t say enough how much we appreciate it when listeners like you review The Lancast on iTunes. It helps new listeners become part of “the cast.”

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void

The Sound and Fury of Erin Murray appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

We talk this week with Representative Bryan Cutler. During his visit to the studio we talked about his path into the political world. In the second half Bryan tells us how he uses social media to keep in touch with his constituents.

You can connect with Bryan Cutler on

• Twitter
• Facebook
• YouTube
• Website

Support for this episode of The Lancast has been provided by Lancaster County Art Association.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void

The Path of Policy with Representative Bryan Cutler appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Matthew Lester joins us this week to talk about his professional photography in the healthcare and higher ed industries, his artistic iPhone photography, and what it’s like being a member of The Candy Factory, a new coworking space in Lancaster city.

Matthew is the man behind Matthew Lester Photography, and he has compiled a book of iPhone photographs he has taken. He will be teaching a one-day course, “Taking Photos with your iPhone,” on Saturday, Sept 25, at Pennsylvania College of Art & Design. The cost to attend is $120.

Support for this episode of The Lancast has been provided by Lancaster County Art Association.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void

Phoning In The Photos appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

We hit the road this week to travel all the way to the west side of Lancaster city to record with the band Kheris in their garage rehearsal studio. The release of their new album, The World Outside, coincides with the release of this episode of The Lancast.

The members of Kheris are Steve Slesser, Keith Slesser (Steve and Keith are brothers), Aaron Gagne, Rob Nye, and Kyle Kettering.

This episode includes a live performance (the poor mixing is our fault) and the studio version of “Angel” from their new album.

Kheris will be performing in Lancaster on Sunday, August 22nd with The Sketties. Watch their MySpace page for more information.

Things mentioned in the show:

• OFM
• Bube’s Brewery
• Gullifty’s
• Open Mic Night every Wednesday at American Bar & Grill
• The Sleeping World (another band Rob used to play in)

Also, be sure to listen to the most recent episode of Around the Wood Stove, another podcast produced here in Lancaster. Jason Mundock interviews us about The Lancast and the podcasting scene in Lancaster County.

Support for this episode of The Lancast has been provided by Lancaster County Art Association with special thanks to Tri State Indie.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void

Kheris, It’s Just A Misspelling of ‘Grace’ appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

We continue our conversation with the guys at The Tourist Trap, another Lancaster-based podcast.

Whereas last week we talked with Justin and Stephen about our personal lives, especially our religious lives, this week we talk specifically about podcasting in general and The Tourist Trap specifically.

Support for this episode of The Lancast has been provided by Lancaster County Art Association and Not Bad Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void

It’s A Trap! appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/

Another Lancaster-based podcast, The Tourist Trap, is hosted by Justin Carroll and Stephen Sarro, and the two of them join us this week to talk about one of their most common topics: religion. Most episodes of The Lancast focus on our guests’ public and professional lives, but in this episode we take the opportunity to get personal, each of us talking about our religious experiences as young adults.

It turns out that all four of us intentionally left the church in our early 20s, and then several years later have recommitted to being a part of a Christian church congregation. What drove us each out, and what drew us back? What has changed in our beliefs, and what have we held on to? That’s what our conversation is about.

As Daniel says in the opening of this episode, we recognize that all four of us are Protestant Christians, and we’re eager to learn about the religious experiences of others in the Lancaster community. So please leave your feedback in the comments below, or contact us (feedback@thelancast.com) if you’re interested in being a guest on the show for a future episode.

Justin and Stephen are great guys, and since we found a lot in common our recorded conversation went longer than an hour. We’re committed to our goal of half-hour shows, though, so we did a lot of editing to so that this episode comes in at 35 minutes.

Our churches:

• Westminster Presbyterian Church
• Gap Community Church
• Grace Lutheran Church

If you enjoy this show, please help us out by taking a minute to write a brief 5-star review on iTunes. Thanks!

Support for this episode of The Lancast has been provided by Lancaster County Art Association with a special thanks to Not Bad Design.

Theme music: Invisible Walls by Revolution Void

Going In Depth with Stephen Sarro and Justin Carroll appeared on http://www.thelancast.com/