Salem Farmers' Market 2010

The return of the Farmers’ Market is a welcoming site. Not only did it signify that summer was finally here, but that we residents can enjoy the pleasure of what it has to offer. Seasonal produce, farm eggs, fresh cheese, baked breads & goodies, seafood, live music and a generous sense of community (in a timely article by the Salem News, sometime in the future we may also be able to buy wine there as well. But until that happens you can fulfill your wine needs at Pamplemousse or Salem Wine Imports). You will also find some non-food vendors there as well, to round out your overall shopping experience.

Every week there are different musicians for entertainment, rotating vendors and sometimes cooking demonstrations and guest appearances (today features an appearance by Lt. Gov. Tim Murray)  to keep the experience fresh and new.

A full list of vendors (including foods and wares available weekly), featured musicians and any timely info is available at the Salem Farmers’ Market website at: http://salemfarmersmarket.org.

The Salem Farmers’ Market happens every Thursday afternoon from 3PM-7PM until October 21st. To stay up to date on the activities, they  also has a Facebook page and you can follow them on Twitter @salemfarmmarket.

Oh, and don’t forget to head over to Pamplemousse between 4-7pm today for some cake as they celebrate their 8th anniversary!

Related posts:
Salem Farmers’ Market
Salem Farmers’ Market initial review
Salem Farmers’ Market going strong (some great photos in this post!)

Coven market in Salem soft open

While the big opening day isn’t until Memorial Day weekend we stopped by the new market/cafe the other day to check it out.

Coven of Salem

The shop is not fully functioning but they do have some fun and hard to find products. If you’re into a crunchy lifestyle you might be pleasantly surprised that Coven has some hard to find vegan foods.  Vegan fake bacon, cheese, ice cream and other soy based alternatives are available in their market section.  They also stock some fruits, veggies and a good selection of herbs.

Fruits, veggies and herbs

One of the features everyone is talking about is their cereal bar. Plenty of your childhood favorites to choose from.

Coven cereal bar

There is plenty of seating at Coven, both up front by the giant glass windows and in back, decorated with funky rock memorabilia and monster style painting.

lounging at Coven

Right now their desert coolers are pretty bare but based on the look of these brownies I’m guessing they will have some delicious morsels soon.

Brownies

The staff was friendly and hectic trying to work out the kinks that arise during a pre-opening.  We look forward to going back when they have a full blown opening.

Baby Artichokes

Special thanks to Forrest Frazier who took these pictures for us.

It seems like people in Salem more than other communities try to live “green” lives. I often see people carrying reusable bags and recycling.  We host a Green Living Fair in June and who hasn’t seen those lime green vegetable oil burning Mercedes turbo diesels around town?

Zipcar

Zipcar the low down

What is zipcar?
In case you are unfamiliar with zipcar.com, it is a service that you can join which allows you to reserve and use a car kept locally within a neighborhood. Most people who use these cars do so for short trips, to the grocery or the mall, maybe a run to ikea or Home Depot. Zipcar is a Massachusetts based company and has a cult like following in cities like Cambridge, New York City, San Francisco and now internationally in places like London, and Toronto.

How does that relate to Salem?
For some time now Salem residents who don’t own a car or don’t want to own a car have been asking Zipcar to come to Salem.  Zipcar has listened and on April 5th spoke in front of the Parking Board (minutes can be found here).

Zipcar is requesting six parking spaces in Salem. Two in the Church Street lot adjacent to the cinema, two in the Sewall Street lot by the YMCA and two in Riley Plaza West lot by Steve’s market. As you would expect the Parking Board asked questions regarding liability, snow emergency concerns and what we have come to expect from them compensation. In the end nothing was resolved and the meeting was adjourned

So now what?
The next Parking Board meeting will be held on Monday May 3, 2010 at 120 Washington Street, 3rd floor conference room. If you are interested in Salem getting the Zipcar service, they want to hear from you.  Let the Parking Board know how you feel. It’s your city use your voice to enact positive change.

Salem Spring Fling is a fun event that we look forward to every year.  Like the ancient Bacchanalia this celebration of spring abounds with wine, women and song. It’s also the largest sanctioned Toga Party around!

Third Annual Salem Spring Fling

The low down on Salem’s Spring Fling

Where: Old Town Hall, Derby Square on Front Street in beautiful Salem MA
When: Saturday, March 27th from 6 – 9 pm
What: Join us for our annual Bacchanalia ! A celebration of spring with culinary delights, fine wine and craft beer, music and art! Food and wine/beer sampling included in ticket. Collectable glass to all attendees.

The Beer: Magic Hat, Ipswich, Stone Cat, Cape Ann Brewing, Harpoon, Dogfish Head, Wachusett, Mayflower, Oscar Blues, Cody Brewing and more!

The Wine: A fine selection of wines from around the world hand picked by the Pamplemousse

The Food: Salem Restaurants such as Capts, Finz, Sixty2 on Wharf, Passage to India, Rockafellas, The Lobster Shanty, AJ King Artisan Bakers, Victoria Station, The Upper Crust Pizzeria and great coffee from Cafe Valverde!

The Music: Local favorite, Machine 475 will be performing live.

Other great stuff: Free chair massages provided by Living Well & Laura Lanes Skincare, readings with Lady June (fee) and lots of great art from local artists such as Jeff Bowie, Chris Dowgin, Sue Grillo, Sarah Ashodian, John Viens, Elise
Mankes, Ken Goldstrom, Dirty Witch Soaps, Jack Walsh, & Scott Lanes.

Meet familiar characters from myth and legend and enjoy the goddesses and nymphs that wander the “Garden of Earthly Delights“. Seek out The Oracle of Delphi to hear your fortune. Roman attire is encouraged! Great costumes available at Samantha’s just one block from the event!

Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door and are available at Pamplemousse, threiverboston.com, pmousse.com, localwineevents.com or by calling 978-745-2900.

Salem’s 7th Annual Christmas Tree Bonfire

Tomorrow night Wednesday, January 6th – on Dead Horse Beach at the Salem Willows – 6:00 p.m. (Rain/Snow/Wind Reschedule Date: Thursday, January 7th) you can say good bye to O’ Tannenbaum.

Christmas Tree Burn

When we were rebellious youths we’d  patrol the streets at night the first week of January and pick up all the dead Christmas trees, throwing them in the back of Bills truck. Once we had a good sized stack we headed off to the park where we would construct some sort of tree art and set match to tree.  It seems as though the Mayor was watching (or participating who knows) because our new years pastime is now city sponsored family fun.

From the city of Salem:

Bring your Christmas tree with you that evening, drop it off at the beach after January 1st or leave it out for curbside pickup beginning January 4th
Please don’t forget to remove all decorations and lights from your tree
(FYI – Citywide Christmas Tree Curbside Collection will also take place as scheduled January 4–8, 2010)

Sponsored by the City of Salem, Salem Park, Recreation & Community Services Department & The Gathering

This is a good time for all, complete with free hot chocolate! So head down to the Willows and say goodbye to 2009 and hello to what is going to be a great 2010.

Salem Wine Women

So you guys know that we recently moved just the tiniest bit north of Boston, to beautiful Salem, Massachusetts.

Now, while Salem may be most renowned for hosting the biggest month-long Halloween party known to man, there’s also a lot of stuff going on here up here during the off-season.

Last night, I hit my favorite local kitchen store, Pamplemousse (that’s French for “grapefruit”), for a wine tasting and bead event with Salem Wine Women and Beadworks.

Pamplemousse is located in the heart of the Essex Street pedestrian mall, across the street from Witch City Ink. We had a little wine and everyone got to put together a beaded wine stopper.

(If you know me at all, you know that this little thing will get put to *very* good use at The Mouse House.)

Around Salem’s Pamplemousse

Disclaimer: The gals that own Pamplemousse aren’t paying me to say all this. I truly do love this store. It’s one of those cool, indie kitchen shops that sells a bunch of really neat ceramics and home goods…

…as well as harder-to-find kitchen tools and bakeware. (Hey, if I ever have a mini-springform pan emergency, I know where to go!)

I’m absolutely in love with this little guy.

I’m not sure where I’d put him, but I’m pretty sure he needs to come home with me soon.

This bristle-y kitty is a close second.

Pamplemousse is also the only place I can think of where you can get a witch hat with matching apron.

Let’s not forget all that wine

In addition to all those glorious goodies, Pamplemousse has a surprisingly good selection of wine, beer, and mead.

The staff is really knowledgeable.

Colleen’s turned me on to a handful of great bottles I wouldn’t have otherwise tried. (I’m thinking specifically of Le Faux Frog by Toad Hollow Wines, which is one of my favorite reds right now.)

I think it’s safe to say that everyone had a blast.

If you’re ever in the area, definitely stop in and poke around.

Pamplemousse
185-189 Essex Street
Salem, MA 01970
978-745-2900

Thanks to everyone for a fabulous evening!

The 3rd annual SALEM HARVEST FEST

Salem Harvest Fest presented by Pamplemousse & Magic Hat Brewing takes place this Saturday, October 24th from 2 – 6 pm at 294 Essex (Salem Y Ballroom) is a grand tasting of over 100 fine wines, craft beers and delicious mead.  Local breweries Cape Ann, Ipswich & Stone Cat Brewing, Wachusett Brewing and Magic Hat will be on hand as well as an assortment of international beers from Atlantic and Seaboard Imports.  This year, they have local wineries Turtle Creek and Still River Winery participating, as well as a fantastic array of wines from around the world.

Tickets are a well spent $20 in advance and $25 for more info head over to salemharvestfest.com

The DARQ Gala

2009 DARQ Gala

Coming in on the top of the “unique and affordable  Halloween evening events” list is the DARQ Gala.  When it comes to Salem Balls, Gala’s and Hootenannys, this event always brings out the the well dressed locals and imports from the greater Boston area who enjoy the darker more gothic side of Salem.

This year’s DARQ Gala feature’s live performances by Angels on Acid and Boston’s Ground to Dust. (Bands that Vudu:DJ’s been playing, and Salem has been dancing to…) AND! DJ Cypherpunk will be keeping the aural flow in the times between sets. Tickets are $20 at the door, and $15 in advance, via the link on darqsalem.com.

Bikers Redux

21st Annual Halloween Ride

They were rained out last week but they are rolling in to town this Sunday. The Boston/Salem Harley Davidson MDA motorcycle Ride is coming to town.

Bruce Rossmeyer might be dead but the giving spirit of Boston area bikers is alive and well. For the past 21 years motorcyclists from all around New England have come to Boston and ridden up to Salem for the day.  The ride with a $20 entry fee per rider benefits the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Thousands of bikers come to enjoy the sights and sounds of pre-Halloween Salem.

Traffic Warning: Derby and Lafayette streets will be blocked off to bikes only for a few hours (usually 1-3pm) so traffic will be more tight than normal. Also, all those bikes tend to be a bit noisy so if you are near the self appointed “Salem Sound Police” and hear them bitching ask them how much good they have done for the underprivileged today.

Facebook

As is the case with most social media, the City of Salem is not in the forefront (they still don’t have a twitter feed for governmental updates like road closures, snow bans, amber alerts etc.) I’m sure they will jump on the band wagon eventually but until then the good people of Salem have found a champion on facebook by the name of Joey Colomba.

Joey started up a facebook fan page because like many people in Salem he loves the Witch City and very much like us he puts in his own time and effort, paid by no one because he wants to see Salem prosper.  Currently he 9,270 fans who see his musings, news stories and various info about Salem but he wants more.  He is on a quest to have 10,000 fans and I’m sure that with the help of TheSalemInsider.com readers we can get him there.

I recently spent some time chatting with Joey about his Facebook fanpage. After you are done reading this post you should head over to facebook.com/salemmass and become a fan. Tell him “The Salem Insider sent you.”

TSI: Joey, you have built up a pretty robust Salem MA facebook page. It doesn’t appear that you are employed by the City of Salem so what is your motivation?

JC: The main reason why I started the Fan page was to help local businesses in the tough economic times. The page since then has grown to a place for everything including local events or what is happening in Salem, MA.

TSI: Given the recent additions to Salem in regards to new shops, restaurants, bars and condos do you feel Salem is moving in the right direction and how do you feel about its future?

JC: This is a tough question, I honestly think having more business in Salem is great and will help the city grow economically and provide more jobs for local residents.

TSI: What are some of your places to go / things to see in Salem?

JC: I personally like going to the Salem Willows and some of the Museums in Salem. I also love eating at Engine House and for a quick sub at Bella’s

TSI: Has your facebook page connected you with more Salem insiders or tourists? Do you feel that both the tourists and locals view Salem the same way or are there obvious differences?

JC: Their is a mix of Salem residents and people who just love salem in general. I’ve been receiving phone calls and emails from people all over the world with nothing but postive feedback on the page and how much they want to move back to salem after seeing our page and whats going on with the city. It allows people to connect with salem without opening a local news paper.

TSI: If you could change something about Salem what would it be?

JC: Something needs to be resolved with traffic in the downtown area aside from this I believe the city staff is running Salem just fine.

If you have more questions for Joey or just want to connect with other Salemphiles head over to facebook.com/salemmass and become a fan.

Thanks Joey and good luck!

Today Show in Salem… almost

Today Show Cast in bad pose

You may have heard the rumors that NBC’s Today Show is coming to Salem.  Well – sort of… The  cast of the Today Show will not be here but crew will be filming a segment here in town and our friends over at Rockafellas are throwing a premature costume party. The Today Show Costume Party, featuring the Open Bar Band, on Friday October 17. Dress as Hoda or Kathie Lee (apparently they are on the late segment), and you may be featured in the segment they are filming.

Rocky Horrible’s?

Rocky Horror and Dr. Horrible

Cinema Salem is blending two cult classics (ok, one cult classic and one internet cult phenomenon) into one night of fun.  Tonight Friday October 16th at 11pm they will be showing the Rocky Horror Picture Show which most people are well aware of and Joss Whedon’s (the guy behind Firefly, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel and most recently Dollhouse)  Dr. Horrible’s Sing Along Blog. This is sure to be a great night of campy fun and cinematic intergration as you and your fellow movie goers dress up, shout out and sing along with the cast and film in one of Salem’s best bargains, Cinema Salem.

Fun for Kids and plenty of pumpkins

If you have kids you’re going to have a hard time determining what to do this weekend because there are just so many options.

Halloween at Hogwarts
Saturday 9am – 12Noon
Phoenix School 89 Margin Street
Grab your robe, pack your imagination in your trunk, put your owl on your shoulder and head for Track 9 3/4. Using art materials and science experiements, help Harry and his friends solve the mystery of the horcruxes and save the world. Ages 6-11 Admission is $25 with pre-registration required. Free Parking
www.phoenixschool.org

Pumpkin Festival & Food Court
Saturday 10am – 5pm
Salem Common
See a display of pumpkins decorated by Salem and area school children and see if your little ones can find their way through the hay bale maze!
www.HauntedHappenings.org

Family Fun Day at Salem Maritime
Saturday 10am – 4pm
Derby Wharf Area Derby Street
Come in costume or as you are! Join Salem Maritime for a day of free family fun on Derby Wharf! Children of all ages can dance to live musicians, get their faces painted, sail model boats, and earn Junior Ranger badges among many other activities.
www.nps.gov/sama

National Park Service Jr. Ranger Costume Day
Saturday 10:30am – 4pm
Salem Maritime 160 Derby Street St. Joseph Hall 2nd Flr.
Come dressed in costume representing a Person, animal or object connected to a National Park. Do Jr. Ranger activities and prepare to build a ship!Children in costume will also be given Free admission to the shipwright program. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Children 8-12. Adult Admission $5 Children 6-16 $3.00 Children under 6 Free! For ideas on your costume visit www.nps.gov
www.nps.gov/sma

Salem Youth Hockey Pumpkin Festival
Saturday 11am – 5pm
Salem Common
Come decorate a pumpkin and play some games

The Great Pumpkin Carving Contest
Saturday 11am – 4pm
Pickering Wharf
Children from 5-99 may carve/decorate their pumpkin for first, second and third places in age grouped judging.
www.HalloWharf.com

Kids Fun Run
Saturday 11am
Salem Common
Enjoy a fun run with your kids! Prizes awarded for the scariest costume, funniest costume & the most creative costume. Pre-Entry (by October 10): $7.00/child with t-shirt guaranteed. Post-entry/race day: $10.00/child (t-shirt not guaranteed). Ages 2 & under (50 yard dash on grass); Ages 3-4 (100 yard dash on grass), Ages 5-9 (1/4 mile on path around the Common), Ages 10-12 (1/2 mile on path around the Common).

The Bikers are Coming!

21st Annual Halloween Ride

Bruce Rossmeyer might be dead but the giving spirit of Boston area bikers is alive and well. For the past 21 years motorcyclists from all around New England have come to Boston and ridden up to Salem for the day.  The ride with a $20 entry fee per rider benefits the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Thousands of bikers come to enjoy the sights and sounds of pre-Halloween Salem.

Traffic Warning: Derby and Lafayette streets will be blocked off to bikes only for a few hours (usually 1-3pm) so traffic will be more tight than normal. Also, all those bikes tend to be a bit noisy so if you are near the self appointed “Salem Sound Police” and hear them bitching ask them how much good they have done for the underprivileged today.

Darq does the Shanty

Local wax spinner / master of the steel wheels, Voodoo:DJ spins tunes from your favorite rock music to spooky goth industrial and Halloween jams. This is a rare opportunity to catch one of Salem’s finest DJs at a free show from 7-11.  Plus the Lobster Shanty on Artists Row off of Front Street has a great selection of fall & Halloween beers for your consumption.

Halloween Carnival

Carnival

Carnival is back in town as of Friday the 16th and will be open noon to 9pm.  The tall grass has been mowed over at the vacant lot on Derby St. next to the Hess station and the carnies, booths and rides are all loading in.

Witch City Show and Glow Car Show

For the past few years the area on Essex street from Hawthorne Blvd to Liberty St. (in front of Crow Haven, Fools Mansion down to the PEM) has been blocked off for a small car show. The focus of this show will be newer Chrysler’s.  Think PT Cruisers, 300′s and the like.  If you like cars, neon and fun paint jobs this is a cute oasis in an otherwise commercially spooky desert.

Coming this weekend, “Eeek I’m on lockdown” and “Are we being invaded by bikers?”

Salem's Super Info Booth

According to their website

Fun for all ages this street festival has something for everyone. Crafts, jewelry, paintings, stained glass, and other unique items will be featured along the Essex Pedestrian Mall. Street performers, face painters, and musicians will entertain all.

So this is what all the insiders know. The Salem BizBaz is an opportunity for scores of vendors to set up shop on Essex Street, Hawthorne Blvd. and Derby Square. Some of these vendors are from local shops while others are from schools, charities and civic organizations, oh and some yummie food purveyors.

If you are one of those people who always want to do something to help your fellow man but never seem to get around to it the BizBaz is the time for you to make good. Over by Rockafellas you will find some of the good people who work with Camp Sunshine. Camp Sunshine is a retreat in Maine for children with life threatening illnesses and their families. Donate a few dollars and put a smile on the face of someone less fortunate.

Want to put your money to work a bit closer to home? Salem high school football has a booth set up at the top of Derby Square, trying to raise funds for new uniforms. Further down the street by Fools Mansion you can find a Salem Little League booth and a Salem Police tent.

In an amongst all the a fore mentioned booths you will find jewelry makers, face painters, witch hat vendors, plenty of tee shirt sales, candied apples, kettle corn, magical crystals and all sorts of other fun stuff.

Parking in Salem for new residents

If you are a new resident of the city of Salem you might find that the area where you have been parking (if you park on street) in is blocked or reserved in October. Head over to the parking clerk or city hall and bring a utility bill and your car registration with you.  You can get a month of October pass which will let you park in resident parking areas.

Where should I park?

There are quite a few parking lots in the main tourist areas of Salem in addition to on street metered spots and the two garages.  We built a map to help you out a bit.

View Salem MA Parking Map in a larger map

How much will it cost?

Most metered spots cost $0.50 per hour and are enforced Monday through Saturday from 8am to 6pm.  Some spots have a max of 2 hours while others are only good for one.  Read the label on the meter to find out how much you need to pay. Some people try to park in one spot all day and just feed the meter every two hours.  However, depending on what meter maid is working the area you are parking in you might find yourself with a “meter feeding” ticket.  People who work down town have learned to move their car every few hours, tourists usually take a chance by feeding the meter but this can end in a big fat orange ticket.

Due to the success Salem is seeing with its robust nightlife, the parking garages now charge until 2am on Thursday – Saturday (Sunday morning) and are a flat fee of $20 on weekends in October.  Your best bet might be the MBTA commuter rail lot at $4.00 a day.  The walk to down town is a few minutes longer but ad the end of the day those few minutes will save you frustration and $16.00 As an added bonus the Salem News is reporting that funds have been approved for a six story 750 – 900 car garage at the commuter rail lot to be finished by 2011.

According to their website:

You are invited to America’s most exciting Halloween festival in the bewitching seaport city of Salem, Massachusetts.  A month of fun for the entire family. Discover the magic of Salem for Halloween!

Vampire with Baby

As readers of this blog know there is always something to do in Salem and during Haunted Happenings. Salem in October transforms into a special place that celebrates all things spooky and throws the biggest Halloween party on the planet. Each year the festivities kick off with the Grand Parade, continue with various events through out the month and wrap up with late night fireworks on the 31st.

We will be putting the spotlight on some of the upcoming events that are not to be missed.  If you have an favorite event you think our readers need to know about drop us a line.

Haunted Happenings Grand Parade

The Salem Chamber of Commerce does such a great job organizing so many events around town but the Haunted Happenings Grand Parade might be one of their most visible and well attended events.  Salem’s students from kindergarten to college, businesses and civic organizations all gather at Shetland park on October 1st at 6:30 and trek through down town (Congress to Derby to Lafayette to Front to Washington to Essex and ending in the Salem Common. This years theme is “Night at the Museum”.

People from all around line the parade routes to watch kids in costume, bands on parade floats, ghost busters, marching bands and the synchronized lawn chair drill team.  This is a great way to get you in the mood for the season and is a signal that the hustle and bustle of tourist season is about to commence.

Haunted Happenings Parade road closures

A parking ban will be in effect on 10/1/09 on the following streets between 5pm and 9pm. Any vehicle parked in these areas will be towed.
Congress Street – both sides from Harbor St. to Derby St.
Derby Street – both sides between Congress St. and Lafayette St.
Lafayette Street – both sides between Derby St. and Front St.
Front Street – both sides.
Essex Street between Liberty St. and Hawthorne Blvd.
Washington Sq – both sides in front of the hotel.

The following roads will be closed on 10/1/09 from 6pm until 9pm.
Congress Street will be closed from Harbor Street to Derby Street.
Derby Street will be closed from Congress Street to New Derby Street.
Commuters will not be able to use Route 1A between Dodge St. and Brown Street which includes Derby Street, Hawthorne Boulevard and Washington Square at the Common entrance.
Also closed to traffic will be New Derby Street, Front Street and Washington Street between New Derby Street and Church Street.
Essex Street will also be closed at Washington Street.

Next up the Zombie Walk

Take a peek at some of what the Salem Farmers Market has to offer this season. Tomatoes, corn, squash, peppers, gourds, sunflowers, zinnias and a host of other locally grown goodies to get you into the season.

Photos from the Salem Farmers Market

Tomatoes

Fresh baked breadmobile

Salem Farmers Market

Witch

mini pumpkins and gourds

flower power

Pumpkin

Out of my Gourds

Sunflowers

Special Events / Festivals

Salem Jazz & Soul Festival
2 days of free music this weekend!
Saturday, August 15, 10:45 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, August 16, Noon – 6:00 p.m.
(Events will be held Rain or Shine)
Free outdoor concerts at the Salem Willows!  Check out free performances, music education classes, kids tent, arts & crafts and more.

Gulu-Gulu presents:

Gulu Anime Month: Serial Experiments Lain!
Every Tuesday in August @ 8PM!
August 4 – Part 1 – Navi
August 11 – Part 2 – Knights
August 18 – Part 3 – Dues
August 25 – Part 4 – Reset

Ongoing Events

The Gulu-Gulu Cafe Open Mic Shindig!
Every Wednesday @ 8PM!

The Gulu-Gulu Café is hosting an Open Mic for all the wild and crazy musicians out there! Every Wednesday night starting at 8PM. Sign up at 7:30.
Hosted by local superstars Jeff Savlon and Brian Donnelly

O’Neill’s

Monday      Monday Night Football -free appetizers-  4 plasmas & big screen
Tuesday      Pub Trivia  8pm  win great prizes
Wednesday  Open Mic with Delvis. Perform for a chance to win $500
Thursday      **DJ LostDaze  10pm

Rockafellas
Wednesday  Northshore latin dance party 8pm Dance lessons & dance to Latin beats until midnight
Thursday      Country Music with 102.5 Dj’s 9pm

Music

Friday, Aug 14

• Phunksion @ Dodge Street
• Lush Puppies @Bangkok Paradise
• Otis Grove 8 pm @ Gulu Gulu
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• New Life @ Rockafellas
• The Runaround 8:30 @ Black Lobster (Stromberg’s)

Sunday Aug 16

• Salem Cigarette Machine (hip-hop/techno) @ Dodge Street
• Will Bozarth @ Bangkok Paradise
• Jenne Hayden, Hilary Emerson Lay art hanging @ Gulu Gulu
• Peter Fedele and friends @ In a Pig’s Eye
• Live Irish music 4 – 6 pm. Karaoke at 9pm @ O’Neills

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing the following.

GI Joe: The Rise of Cobra (PG 13)
Fri & Sat: 11:45 2:10 4:45 7:20 9:50
Sun: 11:45 2:10 4:45 7:20

Funny People (R)
Fri & Sat: 12:00 3:00 6:45 9:40
Sun: 2:00 3:00 6:45

G-Force (PG)
Fri & Sat: 11:30 1:30 4:00 6:30 8:15

Examined Life (NR)
Fri & Sat: 12:15 2:30 4:30 7:10 9:10
Sun: 12:15 2:30 4:30 7:10

Teseracte Players of Boston present Dr. Horrible’s Sing-a-long Blog
Saturday 10pm $10

Insider Picks

A no-brainer for us to say, but the Salem Jazz & Soul Festival down at the Willows is the place to be. It is one of the largest, musical events in Salem with lots of talent on deck and the weather should be great.

Ice Scream Bowl (formerly Scooperbowl)

Formerly known as the Scooper Bowl (I’m guessing the Jimmy Fund had a hand in Salem’s event name change) the Ice Scream Bowl was a big hit.  This year the event was layed out on the Common to allow for much better foot traffic flow and less crowd overflow onto the street. The ice cream providers were similar to those from last years Scooper Bowl and included some we profiled on our Salem Ice Cream Roundup post. Along with the yummie ice cream there was plenty of fun stuffs for the kids to do.

Ice Cream Scoopers

Rita's mascot

Baloon knot animals

face painting

In case you missed yesterdays Ice Scream Bowl on Salem Common we have a treat in store for you.  The Salem Insider along with renown foodie and fellow blogger The Hungry Mouse are bringing you a series of Ice Cream Shop reviews starting tomorrow!

But wait, there’s more…

Salem Heritage Days is about more than just Ice Cream, it’s also about pizza. On the Salem Common Thursday night starting at 6PM the annual Salem Best Pizza Competition will be held. This is another great event that really packs them in. We have done a good job seeking out all the Salem Pizza joints and reviewing them for you but some still elude our list.  We will be adding a few shortly so if there are any particular pie parlours you want us to review just let us know.

Here is a quick list of some Salem Twitter resources.  With more people joining twitter each day I’m sure this list will be missing a few Salem tweeters, if you know of anyone we should add to this list please tell us.

Salem Info

The Salem Insider @saleminsider

Destination Salem @destsalem

Haunted Happenings @hauntedhappenings

North Shore Dish @northshoredish

Salem History Society @salemhistorysoc

Salem News @salemnews

Salem Businesses

Crunchy Granola Baby @crunchygranolab

Engine House Pizza @enginehouse

Fools Mansion @foolsmansion

Gulu Gulu Cafe @gulucafe

Harbor Sweets @harborsweets

Hawthorne Hotel @hawthornehotel

Jaho Coffee @jahocoffee

Patriot Lobster @patriot_lobster

Rouge Cosmetics @rougecosmetics

Salem Harley Davidson @salemHD

Salem Theater @salemtheatre

Salem Wax Museum @salemwax

Salem YMCA @salemfamilyymca

Seed Stitch @seedstitch

Sophias of Salem @sophiasofsalem

Spirit Wellness Center @spiritwellsalem

Strega @stregasalem

Treasures Over Time @timelytreasures

Upper Crust Pizza @uppercrustpizza

Witches Cottage @witchescottage

Municipal / Education

Phoenix School @phoenixschool

Salem Public Library @salemmalibrary

Salem State Arts @salemstatearts

I happened upon a production last year of Romeo & Juliette done by the RSC which was quite entertaining and different from most Shakespeare I had seen in the past. The young actors a preform in contemporary attire with a very “now” feel. If you are looking for Shakespeare with short pants and floppy hats you are in the wrong place.

From their email:

Our high school aged actors, known as the Teen Intensive Program, are traveling all over the North Shore and Boston, with 4 appearances in Salem. Mia Rossi and Frazier Jones, both of Marblehead (Mia is a senior at Phillips Andover, Frazier is a senior  at Marblehead High School) are sharing duties of Hamlet, taking turns playing the lead during the tour.

All the shows are free to the public, and they suggest you bring a blanket or folding chair.

July 17, 1pm: Salem Senior Center 5 Broad Street, Salem MA (Indoors — no chair
or blanket needed).

July 17, 5pm: Salem Athenaeum  337 Essex Street, Salem MA
http://www.salemathenaeum.net/

July 22, 11am  Mary Jane Lee Park,  Prince & Prospect Streets, (off Congress
Street Near Shetland Properties) Salem MA… Featuring a theatre workshop for
neighborhood kids before the show.

July 22, 3pm  Salem Common

In addition to the four Salem Shows, they have a few performances scheduled in other towns around the north shore (if you really have a desire to leave Salem for a few hours).

Salem Farmers Market

Featuring fresh produce from eight different farms, many residents gathered armfuls of leafy lettuce, radishes, potted herbs, flowers and the one stand that had something different to offer in the form of strawberries and tomatoes, had quite a line to wait in.

Waiting in line

Anyone hoping for the great variety of fruits and veggies you might find in Boston’s Haymarket will be sadly disappointed. Due to the time of year, available foods were limited to mainly “green stuff”. However, not too many people seemed to mind. Most were just happy to be able to take advantage of shopping for fresh, farm grown produce in their own back yard.

Fresh greens

We are looking forward to a larger and changing selection of available food stuffs from the local farms as the seasons progress. If you are interesting in scooping up some treats make sure you get to Derby Square early for the best selections and to beat the crowds.

More than just fruits and veggies

you can get magickly clean

10. Ding Ding.  The trolleys have taken their respective corners for the upcoming bout.

9. The lines to get in anywhere Friday night are getting longer while the skirts are getting shorter.

8. The seasonal migration pattern has brought a new flock of homeless to down town.

7. Light poles littered with signs directing you to the local ice cream shops.

6. The Public Works guys draining the water fountains every other day because they were turned into giant bubble baths.

5. Diving out of the way as short-pant wearers peddling pedicabs or riding segways fly down the walkways.

4. Bewildered tourists walking about town at 8AM looking for Dunkin’ Donuts or anything “spooky” open.  (Try the local coffee people.)

3. A proliferation of witch and wizard hats paired with flip flops and black socks.

2. Grateful Ted crawling out of his winter hibernation to play out doors.

And the number one sign that spring has sprung in Salem:

1. The triumphant return of outdoor seating; meeting your fellow Salemites under the stars for a frosty adult beverage.

Mojito by Arthur C.

John Singer Sargent

The Salem Anthenaeum is presenting renowned art historian and Sargent scholar Mary Crawford-Volk in a talk entitled “Sargent and Boston: Love at First (and Second!) Sight.” The lecture on Friday May 1st discusses the painters love with Boston.  The presentation will begin with a wine-and-cheese reception at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20, or $15 for members of the Salem Athenæum.

From the Salem Anthenaeum:

Sargent made his first professional visit to America in 1887 and spent the winter in Boston, launching a  lifelong affinity for the city and its cultural community that decisively marked his career. Mary Crawford-Volk explores how Boston patrons inspired some of the artist’s most exciting work, from portraits to landscapes to public murals.

As a student of the Arts, I can tell you this should be a great event and the price is well worth it.  It’s always fascinating to get some more insight on familiar imagery and well known artists.  It’s even better when that info is available to us in our own back yard.

It seems that not much changes in a hundred years or so, our friends over at Salem Main Streets are reviving an old tradition by organizing a Farmers Market.  The Salem Farmers’ Market will open Thursday, June 25, 2009 from 4-7:00 pm, and will run weekly through October 29, 2009.

For a full list of all the good stuff that is in season or for more info check out the Salem Farmers’ Market website.

Last week our friends at Build Guild sent out a notice via Twitter:

Just received word that Spirits is about to be purchased by the owner(s) of the Pickled Onion. I spoke with a gentleman who said they’re excited to honor the Build Guild’s schedule/routine. April’s event is still on, May’s and/or June’s will be determined later.

So what the heck is going on?

According the the Salem News, Peter Kelly, owner of the Pickled Onion in Beverly, is indeed in the process of purchasing the former Spirits location  (which is the former Roosevelt’s location) to open up an Irish pub called Murphy’s.  The menu and entertainment style would be similar to the Onion, affordable pub food with music at night and traditional Irish music on weekends. The optimistic opening date would be in May.

This past weekend I heard that Murphy’s has already contacted some DJ’s in the area and are planning an open mic night as-well-as a Karaoke night.  There was much speculation but either way the local talent is looking for a venue and are hoping Murphy’s will be more receptive than Spirits.

We here at the Insider think the layout and location at 300 Derby St. has way too much potential not to be a major player in the restaurant/night life scene here in Salem, and welcome a pub owner that can make it a success. Many thanks to our friends over at Spirits and lets all hope the residents at Derby Lofts will take a chill pill and let Murphy’s do the best job they can.

On the survey itself, residents are able to rate the neighborhoods they live in, certain city services & programs, local issues pertaining to public education and taxes and a few write in sections near the end to air all of your praise or grievances.

You can find info about the survey at salem.com or head directly to the survey. This survey will only be up for the month of April and all results will be shared with the public.

Don’t forget  to tell them (on the last question) that The Salem Insider sent you.

Old Town Hall Salem MA

For a while now various groups have been holding events there and using the space for all sorts of fun stuff.  A little over one year ago we discussed a few plans that people had floated regarding the future usage of the Old Town Hall.  The outcome was that since Gordon College does a fine job with its Cry Innocense program that they would become stuarts of the stucture and use it to promote the Arts and Community.

Continuing with this spirit of arts, education, community and entertainment the good folks over at Gordon College  have opened their doors to you on their new website www.SalemOldTownHall.com.

Time Travel Days at the Old Town Hall

The Gordon College Institute for Public History announces a collaborative festival for residents and visitors providing opportunities to interact with Salem’s rich and diverse history.  Time Travel Days is looking for musicians, performers, venders, and presenters to provide programming for students, history buffs and the community at large. Programming may be from any time period, but must be related to Salem.

Potential programming participants are invited to submit a response  to the call for proposals.  Programmers whose proposals are selected may be required to submit an additional application.

To find out more about this program and to download a application head over to their website.

Salem Literature Festival

The Salem Literature Festival

From March 27th through March 29, Salem, Massachusetts will take the weekend to celebrate the literary arts with author readings, writing workshops, open mics, word-game tournaments, parties, and more.

Events are being held all over town including: Hamilton Hall, the Salem Athenaeum, Cornerstone Books, Front Street Cafe, The Old Town Hall and an handful of other places. You can meet authors, learn how to hone your skills, see plays, read, write or listen to poetry, attend a tribute, play Scrabble, even make your own paper.

One of the best parts of this lit-fest is that most of the events are free.  Hopefully my writing will improve a bit so you will keep reading this site faithfully

For more great info on the Salem Literature Festival check out their site at SalemLitFest.com.

Discount Variety at CinemaSalem

Tonight is the second edition of FunnyGrownHere.com Presents… Discount Variety at the Cinema Salem Café (One East India Square, 8:30PM). If you’re thinking of heading out to the show, or you’re on the fence about coming out, here’s a bit of info about tonight’s performers, singer/songwriter Danielle Miraglia and video ventriloquist Even O’Television. We’ll also have videos from Hard Left Productions, and I will be hosting. So if you have a car or access to the commuter rail, come out to Salem tonight for some music, comedy, and video shorts.

DANIELLE MIRAGLIA

Bio: Raised just outside of Boston in Revere, MA, where its famous beach is better known for girls with big hair than its history as a popular tourist attraction, Miraglia was raised on a variety of popular music, from her parent’s Motown records to the classic rock influences like The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin that encouraged her to learn to play guitar at thirteen. A passion for the arts and an outstanding gift for writing lead her to Emerson College in Boston’s downtown theater district. After graduating with a degree in Creative Writing, she put her writing skills, originally intended for novels, towards songwriting and began performing at open mike nights in the Boston area. This set in motion what would become a full-time career in music.

How long have you been playing in Boston?

It’s been 10 years since the first time I ever played original songs on a stage at the now defunct Kendall Café in Cambridge.

What are your favorite places to play?

Anyplace where people are there specifically for the music.

Who are your favorite comedians, locally and nationally?

Favorites of all time, George Carlin, Steve Martin, Steven Wright and I’m obsessed with Bill Hicks. I have a very annoying habit of pointing out every little thing that anyone has ever ripped off from him. I still feel like he’s never really gotten enough credit for how much influence he’s had on comedy. I also love Dave Chappelle, Bill Maher and Louis C.K.

What is the best comedy show you’ve seen?

I’ve seen some greats live. I’m thankful to have seen George Carlin before he died and I’ve seen Margaret Cho, and Steven Wright, but they were in such large venues, it’s not the same vibe as seeing a comedian in a small club. It was more like “Wow, I can’t believe that’s one of my favorite comedians in person!” than “Wow, what a great show!” I think the most energetic and greatest live comedy shows I’ve seen have been any that involved Kevin Knox. He just has the gift of great intense delivery. He can say anything and it’s funny. It’s been a while and I don’t remember the material itself at this point, but I just remember the whole room rumbling.

EVAN O’TELEVISION

Bio: Evan O’ Television has been dazzling and perplexing audiences with his one-man-double-act and video ventriloquism since 1995. For a decade Evan also served as a co-founder and resident Artistic Co-Director of the underground performing arts space, PAN 9. In 2007 he was profiled in An Encyclopedia of Vaudeville Performers by Routledge Press. “Double Negatives,” Evan’s full-length solo theatrical work premiered at the Perishable Theatre in March 2008 and will be appearing in new venues throughout 2009.

How long have you been playing in Boston?

I have been performing in Boston since 1994. I first learned about Television in 1995.

What are your favorite places to play?

The Coolidge Corner is delightful. The Cambridge YMCA is invigorating. The Comedy Studio has an adventurous audience. The Perishable Theatre is my home away from home. But the living room at my old loft (PAN 9) always contained the folks that returned my love the most reciprocally.

Who are your favorite musicians, locally and nationally?

I am lucky enough that much of my favorite music is made by people I know. In Boston, Fluttr Effect, HUMANWINE, The Dresden Dolls, Goli, Beat Circus, and Hallelujah The Hills are the folks I try not to miss. I also love the Steamy Bohemians!

And Danielle, I got to share the stage with Danielle once before at club Passim (for one of Peter Dutton’s shows) and she was singing some real ‘shake you to your bones’ music. She’s got that powerful kind of voice that will spirit you down from the mountains to hear it.

Nationally, my tastes run pretty eclectic. I am just as likely to listen to underground hip-hop like Oddissee, Quasimodo or Hell Razah as I am the latest from Wilco, Dylan or Gillian Welch. I am sad Sleater-Kinney doesn’t tour any more and Sun Kil Moon is a recent favorite.

What is the best music show you’ve seen?

Once at Pan 9, Jonah Rapino of Devil Music brought in this Japanese band called Ghost that was led by woman named Chiaki Yoshihara. (I later learned there was another Japanese band named Ghost, as well).

Anyway, the taxi driving the band had gotten in a car accident, and so by a fluke of timing they ended up headlining our show by default– even though we had never seen them play before. From the moment they started playing, the room thundered with this epic orchestral-punk music. Chiaki Yoshihara was like this wild fusion of Lou Reed and PJ Harvey. That show was the closest I have ever gotten to outer space.

Last year the most stunning and amazing show I saw was a woman named Merill Garbus who plays under the name tUnE-YaRdS. The year before that, it was Sxip Shirrey (who sometimes plays with Brian Viglione of the Dresden Dolls). He completely blew me away.

I think Brian Carpenter of Beat Circus puts together some of the best shows in Boston, when you go to them you really don’t want to miss a single act.

The Main Event: Spring Fling vs. Spring Equinox Celebration

In this corner the veteran wearing the light green and white striped trunks, The Spring Fling!

Salem Spring Fling

On March 21st, Salem Massachusetts will host the second annual SPRING FLING: A GARDEN OF EARTHLY DELIGHTS sponsored by Magic Hat at Old Town Hall in the center of this beautiful, historic seaport. The Festival, which is fashioned after the Bacchanalia – a religious festival in honor of the wine god Dionysus or, as the Romans called him, Bacchus – will kick New Englanders out of a long hibernation and jump start Spring by indulging in the finest wines, craft beers and mouth watering food from North Shore restaurateurs.

This modern day version – Spring Fling – will feature a tasting of over 50 fine wines and international and domestic craft beers from Magic Hat, Ipswich, Cape Ann, and Harpoon. Wine professionals will be on hand with an assortment of vino from the US, Europe, South Africa, South America and Down Under. Truly a party fit for Bacchus!

Salem Restaurants such as The Old Spot, Finz, Sixty2 on Wharf, Rockafellas, The Lobster Shanty, AJ King Artisan Bakers, Cafe Grazziani, The Upper Crust Pizzeria, Gulu Gulu and more will tickle and tantalize your palate with delectable culinary delights! North Shore Artists will be offering an eclectic variety of art to please your eye and warm your home! Local favorite, Machine 475 will be performing live. Free chair massages provided by Living Well.

The Spring Fling is on Saturday March 21st from 1-4 at The Old Town Hall, tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door.

And in this corner… the new comer Spring Equinox Celebration to benefit the new playground on Salem Common.

Parents United of Salem (we never hear of them either, but apparently they have been working for a new playground on the Common for about 2 years now) is inviting you to their upcoming Spring Equinox Celebration, to benefit the new Playground on Salem Common. Partygoers will gather at historical Hamilton Hall from 7 to 10 p.m. on the first Saturday of spring, March 21, to sample food and drink from local merchants and bid on an array of auction items. Local jazz trio Bob Kendall & Friends will provide a perfect musical backdrop for munching and mingling and making springtime merry.

Wine tastings from Salem Wine Imports and Market Wine & Spirits; and beer offerings from Boston’s Sam Adams, Salem Beer Works, and fellow North Shore brewers Cape Ann Brewing Company (Fisherman’s Brew) and Mercury Brewing Company, which will provide non-alcoholic Mercury Soda in addition to its celebrated Ipswich Ale. Steve’s Market will supply water. Food will be provided by Sixty2 on Wharf, New England Meat Market, New England Soup Factory, Rockafellas, Salem Beer Works, and Upper Crust. Ben & Jerry’s, Blue Ribbon Bakery, the Hawthorne Hotel, Jacqueline’s Gourmet Cookies, and Ye Olde Pepper Candy Companie will offer sweets.

Next door to the ballroom, attendees will bid on everything from bakery tours to history tours, paintings to parties, and loads of lessons – Spanish, Italian, skating, home staging, and more. Big ticket items, including one week in a New Hampshire ski condo and box seats to a Red Sox/Yankees game at Fenway Park, will be auctioned in the ballroom by local parent Max Burbank. All proceeds from the auction and ticket sales will benefit the new  playground.

The Spring Equinox Celebration is on Saturday March 21st from 7-10pm at Hamilton Hall, tickets are $30 each or $50 per couple, PUS members get a 50% discount.

Let’s get ready to Rumble!

You will notice that some of the local restaurants are staying neutral or double dipping but our main factions are once again squaring off against each other.  I suppose if you were so inclined and wanted to drop $55 you could attend the Spring Fling in the afternoon and then the Spring Equinox Celebration in the evening.  Lets face it though, if these events were spaced out by a week or maybe two more people would go to both and it would be a win for us and a win for them.

Latest Line

Like every good Vegas price fight there has to be some betting odds.  What do you think, who will come out on top?  Where are you willing to spend your money, on our veteran the Spring Fling or the new kid Spring Equinox Celebration?

We received an email and a tweet from a performer who was scheduled to play at Spirits but when he showed up they were not open.  He attempted to contact them but never heard back. Shortly after that one of our Insiders reported back to us that they were in fact closed.  I then sent an email off to Spirits inquiring as to the accuracy of this info and the future implications.

The next day a promoter contacted me stating he got a message that his event was cancelled.  He also sent an email to Spirits but had not received an answer.  Our friends who run a monthly night contacted the venue and were told that their night is on as usual.

Over the next few days there was a flurry of emails and tweets regarding the status of events at Spirits.  Finally our contact over there emailed me.  I had sent an email to the general email and not her specific email which accounts for the delay in communication but here is the low down straight from the owner of Spirits.

Spirits celebrated its one-year anniversary on January 31 and, to quote Mark Twain, the rumors of our death are greatly exaggerated. Spirits is and continues to be open for business and we look forward to serving the Salem community for many years to come.

We have been making changes to ensure Spirits’ continued success during this difficult economic climate. These changes include modifying our menu and trying out different forms of entertainment – both in the dining room and upstairs.

We also have been using our second floor for private functions and events, which has been working out very well. Over the past few months, Spirits has hosted the Build Guild’s monthly meetings, holiday parties, weddings, rehearsal dinners, birthday parties, and baby showers. We have several events booked in the coming months.

This is good news for our community and anyone looking for a great space to hold an event.  I swung by there the other night and they are already getting ready for St. Patrick’s Day.  It looks like the have attempted to try and do some new things, some have worked and others haven’t.  We will keep and eye on it and let you know how things go.

And now you know… the rest of the story.

It seems those guys at the fair and balanced news station love our little town.  They have done zip trips here and a plethora of charity events.  We hope you like this clip.

Salem Film Fest

With an event of this magnitude we thought that giving you almost a full month to decide on which movies to check out might just be enought.  Seriously, there is so much going on that you have to plan out which movies to see and when.  They will be showing 22 films from around the world and 15 of those films directors will be here in Salem to discuss their films.

“The films we chose for this year’s festival are as entertaining and thought provoking as last year, when audiences loved the lineup,” said Joe Cultrera, Salem-based award-winning filmmaker who headed up the selection committee. “It’s an eclectic mix – documenting the lives of heavy metal rockers, an oppressed artist, a caring doctor, circus performers, scientists and beauty queens. You can travel a good portion of the planet through these films – to Chile, Australia, the Amazon, the Ukraine, Antarctica, Cairo, China, New Orleans, Argentina, Tibet and more.

“They explore the human experience, what we do to the Earth and to one another. We’re extremely proud to bring the great work of these filmmakers to Salem and we are lucky that so many of them want to travel here to join us for discussions. It’s a great way to show off Salem to them and to bring the lives and stories they have documented to Salem.”

For a full list of the films, airing times, tickets and info about the surrounding festivities head on over to the Salem Film Fest website.  Get informed and get involved.

Special Events / Festivals

Brunch under the Yellow Umbrella
January is cervical cancer awareness month and Sixty2 on Wharf  wants to spread the word about cervical cancer prevention. You can  join them for brunch this Sunday and listen to live music from Qwill and host Christine Baze from the Yellow Umbrella. Mothers bring your daughters and meet celebrity makeup artist Debra Macki. A portion of The Yellow Umbrella specialty desert and drink proceeds will go to the fight against cervical cancer. Space is limited, to make a reservation call (978) 744-0062.

Music

Friday January 23rd

• Bonds & the Black Spots @ Bangkok Paradise
• The Shadows Smile, Faebotica, Dirigible Ego, and Rocket Rocket (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Los Sugar Kings (mambo-salsa dance party 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• Machine 475 (electronica / pop/rock 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• The Austin Torpedoes (American music 8pm) @ Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Lost Daze (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• The Hitmen (dance, rock, pop, 80′s) @ Rockafellas
• Matt Tentindo (singer / guitar) @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby
• Hot like Fire (bar band 9pm) @ Strombergs Black Lobster

Saturday January 24th

• DARQ w/ DJ Peter Lee  & DJ Shunt (industrial / goth) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Chimpanzebra and El Rancho (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Acoustic Jam (2:30-5:30)  Daniel Bennett Group (jazz 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Lisa Love Experience (dance, rock, pop, 80’s) @ Rockafellas

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

BEN X (no rating)
Friday at 5:15, 7:35 and 9:30
Saturday at 12:30, 3:00, 5:15, 7:35 and 9:30 
Sunday at 12:30, 3:00, 5:15 and 7:35

Defiance (R )
Friday at 3:45, 6:45 and 9:40
Saturday at (12:20), (3:45), 6:45 and 9:40
Sunday at (12:20), (3:45) and 6:45

Hotel for Dogs (PG)
Friday at (4:50), 7:10 and 9:20
Saturday at (12:00), (2:20), (4:50), 7:10 and 9:20
Sunday at (12:00), (2:20), (4:50) and 7:10

Gran Torino (R)
Fridayy at (4:30), 7:20 and 9:50
Saturday at (11:30 AM), (2:00), (4:30), 7:20 and 9:50
Sunday at (11:30 AM), (2:00), (4:30) and 7:20

Insider Picks

It’s cold outside but a good drink and great band can heat things right up.  Tonight the easy winner is Dodge Street with a plethora of great bands. Saturday come out to see newly local DJ Peter Lee spinning some great industrial at DARQ.  For those of you who are friends with promoter Vudu: DJ you’d be a fool to miss the pre-party.   ]]> http://www.thesaleminsider.com/2009/01/23/weekend-warior/feed/ 1 http://www.thesaleminsider.com/2009/01/19/the-coronation-of-barack-obama/ http://www.thesaleminsider.com/2009/01/19/the-coronation-of-barack-obama/#comments Mon, 19 Jan 2009 23:59:24 +0000 Glen Hughes http://www.thesaleminsider.com/?p=913 The queen of England had an elaborate ceremony, Pope John Paul II’s was broadcast around the world and  Napolean’s was ledgendary,  but they will all pale in comparison to the $150 million extravaganza being thrown when our exhaulted president-elect is sworn in as the next best thing to the baby Jesus.  While some people think this is a huge waste of taxpayer money and others feel this might be a historic event, we at The Salem Insider have resigned not to discuss political issues so we don’t have an opinion.  However, we do see that plenty of the businesses around town are looking to cash in on the popularity of the Obama celebrity by hosting events for you.  So, if you feel playing hookey from work to watch yet another politian swear to do all sorts of things is a worthwhile use of your time, then we have a list for you.

Presidential Inauguration Events in Salem

CinemaSalem’s Presidential Inauguration Party
Tuesday morning at 11 am,  they will open their doors for a free Inauguration Party, presenting the historic events from Washington in HD on their big screens. A while back they attempted to do some HD projetion of a TV which got mired in problems, but I am assured this is solved so this should go off smoothly.

A New Birth of Freedom 2009 Presidential Inauguration Celebration
New Birth of Freedom is a quote from Lincoln’s Gettysburg address which has been ripped off  adapted by the Obama camp as the theme for this year’s inauguration.  The Hawthorne Hotel will be paying homage to our 16th president by watching the 44th take the oath of office from 11:30am-4pm.

Gulu-Gulu Inauguration Day poetry reading
Gulu-Gulu Café will revive it’s poetry readings with an ode to inauguration open night night from  7-9 p.m.   Bring an “inaugural” poem — an original poem inspired the president elect or anythig political really; and strut your stuff on the stage.  Your poem can only be 3 minutes long and the first 20 poets to sign up get to read.  Don’t be shy, after watching a few poets you will be saying to yourself  ”I should have done that”.

Rockafellas Inaugural Ball
For you high faluten types, the Rockafellas Inaugural Ball 2009  will feature an all-you-can-eat appetizer buffet and champagne fountain with music by the Mike Payette Band, from  7-11:45 p.m. This Toast to Obama’s inauguration with Rockafellas will cost you $15.

Like millions of obese Americans plenty of people vow to hit the gym and eat right every January first. Even I have set my mind to dropping some excess poundage. I’m on the 20 lbs in 20 days plan – today is day 14 and I’m down 16lbs.

I go to the Salem YMCA and avoid the mass of humanity that just signed up and flood all the machines from about 5:30AM to 7PM by going at 8PM. Having been a member for a few years I know that by March it will be safe to go back at a reasonable hour.

In addition to working out I have cut back on dining out and stepped up the cooking at home. Adding a few great cooking blogs to my RSS reader and setting the DVR for Good Eats (Alton Brown is my homeboy) has inspired me to cook some new things. Some people bitch and moan about how they can’t lose weight but all it comes down to is desire and willpower – a dash of inspiration doesn’t hurt either.

Need some inspiration to lose weight?

Tomorrow night (Wednesday Jan. 14th) get inspired by someone who has battled the scales and won. Neil Tejwani a Marblehead native and contestant on season 4 of NBC’s The Biggest Loser will be speaking at 7PM in the Old Town Hall, his talk is free to the public. At the begining of season four, 26 year old  Neil weighed in at a 420lbs.  After learning what he needed to do and applying himself he lost half of his body weight and got down to 210 lbs.

If you are having a tough time sticking to it or just want a little boost to keep you heading in the right direction, check out Neil’s talk.  He has parlayed his 15 minutes into a career helping people loose weight and get healthy. Perhaps he can help you get into that bathing suit this summer.

This site makes a few bucks, not walking around in a tux with a top hat, monocle and cane type of bucks but enough to buy cocktails for the crew once in a while kind of bucks.  You might notice the skyscraper ad to the right of this post (assuming your not reading this through an RSS reader), every time you click that another unloved penny finds a caring home.  We also have some ads purchased by local businesses over there as well.

So what.  Who cares?

You should, and here is why.  I’ve decided that from Thanksgiving to Christmas all monies made though this site will be donated to a local Salem charity.  Other businesses in town donate to worthy causes and we always try and help them by promoting and attending their events.  So this is our way of giving back or “paying it forward”.

If you are a business and were looking for the right encouragement to get an online ad out to the residents and visitors of Salem we can help, and you can feel good knowing the money you spend is going to help someone.  If you find the content of an ad interesting enough to click on it, you can do so knowing that your click just made a difference.

Paying it forward is nice but who gets the money?

We had a few discussions about where the money should go.  But honestly it’s your money so you tell us.  What charitable organization in Salem deserves a few extra bucks this Christmas season? Who can do the most good here in town?

Tell us what your suggestions are by leaving a comment .  Once we have some good options we’ll announce it and do our best to make a worth while donation.

The day before Thanksgiving brings about Salem’s transformation into Christmas season.  The Essex Street Pedestrian Walkway is strewn with lights, lamp poles have wreaths and this morning city employees started working on the Old Town Hall.

Olde Town Hall gets wreathed

The big wreath went up via a bucket and crane thingie type truck.  Apparently the balmy 30 degree temperatures didn’t dissuade one Rhodes Scholar from wearing his shorts to work this morning.

Erecting Salems Christmas Tree

Seasonal festivities begin this Friday night at 6pm when Mayor Driscoll lights up the Christmas tree.

Editorial Rant:

I know some people refer to the above tree as a “holiday tree” but lets face it, other than Arbor Day what holiday has a tree as a symbol?  It’s a Christmas tree people.  You are not offending anyone by calling it what it is.  Jews, atheists and pagans all acknowledge that the Christmas tree is a Christmas tree and are not offended by it.  Each religion has it’s own unique symbol.  You wouldn’t call a menorah a “multi branched holiday candelabrum”, would you?  The Christmas tree currently happens to be a Christian symbol, having allegedly been adapted from the paganism along with the mistletoe and yule log (which you can watch for free in Salem from Comcast’s on demand menu).  So I don’t want to hear anyone referring to it as anything but a Christmas Tree.

If you are looking to get a Christmas tree for your home you can head across the street from Old Town Hall to Artists Row where they will be selling trees and “Shanty Clause” (get it, Shanty as in the Lobster Shanty – pretty clever) will be making an appearance all weekend long.

If Shanty Clause doesn’t do it for you Santa Clause will be arriving in Salem at the Hawthorne Hotel on Friday at 5:30 pm.  He makes his decent from the roof and meets up with the mayor before walking down Essex Street to the Christmas Tree lighting.  If you miss him on Friday don’t worry because he will be at the Museum Place Mall from noon till 2pm every Saturday and Sunday until Christmas.

3rd Annual Salem Open Studios

Dozens of artists will showcase their work during this festival of craft and art. A wide variety of media including painting, photography, mixed media, jewelry, fiber, glass and sculpture – will be exhibited:
• at Old Town Hall,
• in live/work studios,
• and at retailers throughout Salem.
I don’t know how they manage to do it but it seems as if each year they hold the Open Studios, it’s always frickin fridgid out.  Regardless of the cold, its fun to walk around and check out everybodys space and work.  For more information, and to plan your visit with a downloadable map, visit salemartsassociation.org.

Salem’s Christmas House Tour

Every year we rave about how great this event is, we also applaud Historic Salem Inc. for doing such a bang up job on this; their premier fund raiser.

This years tour on December 5th – 7th features 11 homes all fitting in the theme of “Three Centuries of Architecture“.

Tickets are available at the following retailers for $25 in advance or $30 at Hamilton Hall the day of the tour.

• Borders Books, Music, Movies & Cafe, 151 Andover Street, Peabody, MA
• Crunchy Granola Baby, 72 Washington Street, Salem, MA
• Peter D. Barter Flowers & Colonial Gift Shop, 201 Derby Street, Salem, MA
• Sophia’s, 105 Essex Street, Salem, MA
• The Trolley Depot, 191 Essex Street, Salem, MA
• Waters & Brown, 281 Derby Street, Salem, MA
• Waters & Brown, 13 Elliott Street, Beverly, MA

We say this every year, DON’T MISS THIS EVENT.  It’s a well spent $25 and it goes to a good cause.

Last night the City of Salem’s Licensing Board flexed their muscles and told Fresh Taste of Asia to  close their doors this Thursday and they are banned from having entertainment after 10 p.m. on Thursday and Friday nights for the rest of the year.

Recently some trouble has occurred which garnered the attention of Salem PD.  In fact if you remember our video from last week Bad Cop, you might be interested to know that events precipitating this were caused by people who attended Fresh Taste earlier that night.

I’ve heard much talk that its because of the type of music they play combined with alcohol that draws the out of hand patrons.  Having worked in Boston on Lansdown Street for quite a few years I can tell you that it is an undeniable fact, venues that play hip-hop music have more altercations than those that play other types of music.  However, when you compare the number of police reported issues of Fresh Taste to that of O’Neills (that has a larger capacity) on hip-hop nights the results show a big problem at Fresh Taste that does not exist at O’Neills.

I am a fairly large guy who has worked in the night club industry for years and has learned to spot and deal with problematic and physically violent people.  Recently I went to Fresh Taste on a hip-hop night with a lady friend of mine.  We were seated at the bar and had some dinner and cocktails.  Shortly before 10pm the tables were cleared to make room for a “dance floor”.  It was about this time that the bar started to pack in with girls in short skirts and guys wearing Affliction, or Tapout brand clothing.   My friend had to go to the little girls room and no sooner had she stepped away from her chair than some meathead decided to sit there. I politley told him that the seat was occupied and the young lady was to be right back.  Next thing you know he was up in my face telling me he would kill me and kick my head in.   When I asked him which he would do first he instantly became physical.  Thankfully I was able to handle the situation but the mood for me was ruined.  It’s acts like this that usually end up sprawling outside and becoming problematic for bar staff, patrons and police.

As much as I love to see Salem businesses doing well and people spending their money to have a good time in our city, I think this wake-up call is a good thing.   One of the board members last night was upset telling the bar owner that by having entertainment and dancing he is acutally running a club not a restaurant.  I don’t have a problem with that either, my philosophy when working at or running a club has always been offer the people a good time while keeping them safe.  Establishments that do that turn out to be successful, those that dont do that end up feeling the wrath of the city.  Hopefully Fresh Taste will learn something from this and offer a better environment keeping both their patrons and the City happy.

The Days of Wine and Roses

With all the subtly of a heavy weight MMA fighter, Salem Wine Imports opened up shop almost a year ago.  Even before the first bottle of wine was sold the usual cadre of Salem gum flappers were making quite the hullabaloo.  It would appear that the owner of Salem Wine Imports Eric, (whom I personally like) used to be the salesman who sold to Dianne (whom I also personally like) owner of Pamplemousse another shop in town that sells wine.

You can read all about what transpired and come to your own conclusions but now we have two great shops in Salem that have a good selection of wines. We the consumers win.

As with most businesses that have nearby competitors, each shop tries to promote itself and entice new customers with a variety of techniques.  Pamplemousse (who should learn a thing or three from our Your Website and You posts - their site has been “under construction” for way too long now) hosts wine tastings most Saturdays from 2-4pm while Salem Wine Imports (who needs to realize that if you have a blog you need to update it once in a while) does tastings on Thursday nights from 6-8.  I feel this is a healthy competition which again benefits us the consumers.

The dark side of the cork

We here at TheSalemInsider.com try to keep up on all the events going on around town so you the reader will know whats going on.  As such we often get notices and invitations to events happening around town.  I’ve noticed a disturbing trend lately which makes me think there’s more than meets the eye in the land of corks and casks.

Take for instance the night of September 25th.  The Lyceum hosted Salem’s first Wine Expo.  This event  presented by Salem Wine Imports, The Salem Athenaeum and Historic New England was announced way back in July.

A few weeks back in my in-box I received notice of another wine event, Women & Wine Tasting.  The event  held at Laura Lanes Skin Care on September 25th,  featured wines specially selected from Pamplemousse.  Coincidence?  I think not.

This is not the first time a clash of the tannins has occurred.  Thankfully neither of these proprietors has sunk to the level of public nuisance or disturbance like our ice cream combatants.

Enough sour grapes, uncork the future and tell me what’s in store.

There are some great beverage related on goings in Salem in the next couple of weeks.  What better place to talk about the Salem Harvest Fest than this wine related article.

Salem Harvest Fest

If you like wine, mead or artisnal beers then this is an event for you.  For $20 in advance or $25 at the door you will be able to sample over 60 different libations from all around the world over a 2 1/2 hour period.   This Saturday October 18th, from either 2:00-4:30 or 5:30-8:00 Pamplemousse along with Magic Hat Brewing Company, The Upper Crust and Rockafellas offer up some great selections at a great location – The Gathering, at 217 Essex Street Salem.

If you DONT like wine, mead or artisnal beers then check in with us tomorrow as we tell you about two other festive events that you’ll need a designated driver for.

Salems Super Info Booth

Don’t get me wrong as a site that offers info on Salem and what it has to offer I am glad to see the city stepping up and helping tourists out but, they are doing themselves a disservice by cheesing it up in some left over carnie mobile.

Come on Salem you’re better that that!

If you are new to Salem or are just coming for a visit please note that most of the streets in the down town area will be on lock down tonight.

According to the Salem PD:

A parking ban will be in effect along the parade route streets beginning at 5pm and roads along the route will be closed from 6pm until 9pm.
On Thursday, October 2nd the Grand Opening Parade will begin at 6:30 p.m. The parade route is as follows: From Congress Street at Shetland Park, the parade will take a left onto Derby Street, a right onto Lafayette Street, a left onto Front St., a right onto Washington Street, a right onto the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall, a left onto Washington Square and into the Salem Common.

A parking ban will be in effect on 10/2/08 on the following streets between 5pm and 9pm. Any vehicle parked in these areas will be towed.
Congress Street – both sides from Harbor St. to Derby St.
Derby Street – both sides between Congress St. and Lafayette St.
Lafayette Street – both sides between Derby St. and Front St.
Front Street – both sides.
Essex Street between Liberty St. and Hawthorne Blvd.
Washington Sq – both sides in front of the hotel.

The following roads will be closed on 10/2/08 from 6pm until 9pm.
Congress Street will be closed from Harbor Street to Derby Street.
Derby Street will be closed from Congress Street to New Derby Street.
Commuters will not be able to use Route 1A between Dodge St. and Brown Street which includes Derby Street, Hawthorne Boulevard and Washington Square at the Common entrance.
Also closed to traffic will be New Derby Street, Front Street and Washington Street between New Derby Street and Church Street.
Essex Street will also be closed at Washington Street.

In other event news

Painting at Witch City Ink

Art Fusion at Witch City Ink

Friday night there will be a public event intended to increase awareness of the tattoo artist’s capacity for fine art. The night will offer insight into the nature of tattoo fine art for the general public and any viable media source. Tattoo Artist and Artists from all other mediums will be welcome to come and work in a creative open studio atmosphere every Friday night in October.  So if you are an artist or just enjoy watching art happen, head on over to Witch City Ink.

Zombie Walk Salem T-Shirt

Zombie Walk

Sunday – As you may have heard the Zombie Walk is getting much attention by “the man” and event organizers are being strong-armed into paying for permits and having police details.  This is changing from its original intent of being a spontaneous spooky happening to a disneyfied-official-in-the-guidebook event.  While we are not too happy with city officials we still fully support Steve in his effort to do something fun and formerly free.  If you would like to find out more info about Sundays Zombie Walk or support this effort by either buying a killer t-shirt or making a donation head over to their Zombie Walk Salem myspace page.

In a future post we will be discussing the disparity of good web designers and developers here in Salem to pathetic websites but you’ll have to wait for that…

On to today’s post.

So, when I moved to Salem I wanted to join the Historical Society. In my previous town I was a member and they were quite active in town. I’m also involved with the Dedham Historical Society and figured Salem would be just as active. Well to my dismay there isn’t really a Salem Historical Society.  Bummer.  What I did find was the Salem History Society, (another stellar website from 1992 maybe).  If you can struggle through their site you would find that they host meetings at Cornerstone Books.  In fact tonight September 9th at 7:30 is there first meeting of fall.   Unfortunately we will be attending the Build Guild so we can’t make it there but if you go let us know how it was.

Getting back to my quest for history.  So the Salem History Society didn’t look to organized nor did they have any offerings at the time I was looking so I moved on.

In my searching I found that the old Historical Society was assimilated quite some time ago by the Borg collective that is the PEM.  My quest almost died there until I did some research on the house plaques you see here in town.  That’s when I discovered Historic Salem Inc. and quickly became a member.  They have done a bunch of tours and programs we’ve reported on in the past.  And they’re at it again.

Have you heard of the Great Salem Fire on June 25th 1914?  Well our friends at HSI are ready to tell you all about it.

Great Salem Fire

The Great Salem Fire started with a series of explosions, caused by a mixture of acetone, amalacitate, alcohol, and celluloid. At 1:37 PM, a fire alarm box was used to report a fire in the Korn leather factory, 57 Boston street.

The fire spread quickly down and across Boston Street. The police department sent out calls to 21 cities for assistance. One industrial department, the Fore River Shipyard, also assisted. Over 90 police men from out of town came to help. The Salem Evening News, (Friday, July 24, 1914, page 11), has a complete list of all responding departments and where and how they worked to fight the fire.

The fire burned 253 acres (1 km²) with 1,376 buildings. The entire loss was estimated at US$15 million; insurance policies paid US$11.744 million. Some 20,000 people lost their homes, 10,000 their jobs, and a few their lives.

Interesting – so what?

Remember last September when everyone was going bonkers over the Samuel McIntire anniversary?  HSI did a series of Fall walking tours and we all learned about McIntire archetechure.  This year their focus is on The Great Salem Fire.

The series will trace the path of the Salem Fire of June 25, 1914 focusing on three distinct neighborhoods.

• September 14, 2008 The General Alarm: The First Streets to go up in Flames
• September 21, 2008 The Conflagration Strikes South Salem
• September 28, 2008 The Fire Swallows Salem’s Jobs: The Point, the Mills, and the Waterfront

So put on your walking shoes – bust out $5 and fire up some of your brain cells, its going to be a fun fall.

Historic Salem Inc. Fall Walking Tour Schedule

We are sad to report that sometime late Sunday night early Monday morning Jocelyn Callahan died.  If you’ve ever gone to Gulu-Gulu (where she worked) or Dodge Street or any number of local hangouts where there’s good fun and plenty of friends you may remember seeing Jocelyn.  We got into a discussion about tattoos a couple of weeks ago while I was having a bite to eat at Gulu-Gulu.

I don’t profess to know her well, just in passing. But she did make an impact on those who knew her.  I’ve heard plenty of people talking of her – recounting stories – and the Salem News did a piece about her untimely death.

Just felt I should share.

Leave a comment and we will add your blog to our list.  Who knows you might get a few more subscribers.

Oh and before you ask, a link-back is not required.  We wouldn’t mind a link, if you enjoy this site – spread the love.

Essex Street Fair – Downtown Salem & Pickering Wharf this Saturday, August 9 and Sunday, August 10 from 10 am – 6 pm Fun for all ages this street festival has something for everyone. Crafts, jewelry, paintings, stained glass, and other unique items will be featured along the Essex Pedestrian Mall. Street performers, face painters, and musicians will entertain all.

Berklee Summer Concert Series – Manami Morita on Derby Square, Saturday, August 9 from 5 – 7 pm

Salem Jazz and Soul Festival - The Nat Simpkins Band Featuring Henri Smith at the Museum Place Mall Fountain, Essex Street, Sunday, August 10 from 1 – 3 pm and The Boston Horns with Barrance Whitfield from 2 – 4 p.m.

Heritage Days - Tons of activities going on through out the city.  Check out their complete listing here.

Music

Friday August 8th

• TBA @ Bangkok Paradise
• Neurological Damage (alt, metal, funk) @ Dodge Street
• Los Sugar Kings (mambo-salsa dance party 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• DJ Seth (indie, 80′s, pop, alternative 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Three Toad Sloth (rock 8pm) @ The Lobster Shanty
• Janine Graham Jazz Group (jazz 8pm) @ The Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Lost Daze (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Ritchie Rich and the 24K funk band (dance, rock, pop, 80′s) @ Rockafellas
• Matt Tentindo (singer / guitar) @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby
• Groove Therapy @ (8-11:30pm) Strombergs

Saturday August 9th

• TBA @ Bangkok Paradise
• Cherry S/T (rock) @ Dodge Street
• DJ Zati (10pm) @ Fresh Taste of Asia
• 2nd Saturday Bluegrass Jam (2:30-5:30) 500 Plastic Dragons (indie, pop, country 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Grateful Ted @ The Lobster Shanty
• Brian Maes Solo (piano rock 8pm)  @ The Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Cee Block (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Razen Kane  (dance, rock, pop, 80’s) @ Rockafellas
• Mystafine @ (8-11:30pm) Strombergs

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

The Mummy: Tomb of the dragon emperor (PG-13)
Friday, Saturday & Sunday at 11:30, 2:00, 4:30,  7:00 and 9:00

The Dark Knight (PG-13)
Friday, Saturday & Sunday at  11:45 AM, 3:15, 6:45 and 10:00

Step Brothers (R)
Friday, Saturday & Sunday at 12:30, 2:45, 5:10, 7:30 and 9:45

Insider Picks

Once again this weekend is chock full o’ free goodness.  All the freee music should be excelent but do yourself a favor and make sure you see Barrance Whitfield in the Essex St pedestiran mall by the fountains on Saturday.  Friday our friend and excelent vocalist Janine Graham will be singing over at the Lyceum, if you haven’t had the pleasure of seeing her yet get over there.  Saturday there is a plethora of free music around town. Saturday night Cherry S/T rocks the house over at Dodge Street.  Remember the Essex Street Fair is on and Heritage Days wraps up, check the links above for more info on all those activites.

As a new mom home on maternity leave with my little one, days can get a bit monotonous. There’s only so many walks to take, friends and relatives to visit and let’s face it, daytime television leaves something to be desired. So I was really intrigued when I realized that Cinema Salem has brought back their mom & baby shows on Monday mornings at 10am.

Before I had a baby I couldn’t imagine what it would be like to sit in a theater with a bunch of moms and their antsy children. Well, my imagination created far worse of a scenario than what reality actually turned out to be. This past Monday the featured movie was “The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor” and admission was free for all us “mummies.” (cute, right?)

I loaded up my little one, grabbed all of my gear and headed on over. This could either be a really great thing or a giant mistake. I found a seat, which wasn’t hard because there weren’t many mommies there. When I got settled in I surveyed the lay of the land: strollers in the aisles, house lights up (although very dim) and the sound was definitely softer than the normal volume of a regular movie. There were about seven other parents there aside from me and among them only one toddler, who was by far the most active and vocal child there. But I didn’t mind, I was there to enjoy a movie and just tuned out the occasional, excited outbursts from the other little ones.

Mom & baby show at Cinema Salem

That morning I was sure that I wouldn’t last for the entire movie, whether it was because of my own own baby’s behavior or that of other children. I couldn’t have been more surprised when the end credits began to roll. I think that Cinema Salem is doing a great thing by offering these shows for moms only. It’s a great way for us to enjoy some first run movies without worrying about finding a babysitter or worrying that our children are bothering anyone else, ‘cuz we’re all in the same boat!

Almost everyone has had a friend or family member who has needed blood due to surgery, injury or disease. In fact one in seven people who walk into a hospital each day need blood, that’s 38,000 units per day! To paraphrase my dad, “that blood doesn’t grow on trees”.  The only way others can be helped is is we help them.  Donating blood is easy and relatively pain free.  After anonymously answering few simple questions a friendly vampire draws blood taking only  a few moments.  You then get a cookie and some juice.  How much easier could it be?

Head over to the Salem Water Front Hotel where WBCN in making their annual blood drive push tomorrow Friday July 25th from 11 to 6.  Remember blood donated must be used within 42 days and peoples lives are counting on your generosity.

The Salem CultureFest runs on Saturday July 26th from 10a.m. to 8p.m. and Sunday July 27th 10a.m. to 6p.m. Salem CulturFest schedule offers a cross cultural blend of world-fusion dance music including and diverse performers coming from many world traditions Unique Arts, crafts, colorful clothes and ethnic food will be available for purchase. Parents and children can enjoy a wide range of entertainment & hands on participatory art activities. There will be a Moon Walk/Bouncy Thing, clowns, games and more.

The not for profit organization A3D has a vision to open a multicultural center in Salem, Massachusetts with the Salem CultureFest being a platform to invite citizens of Salem and the greater North Shore area to experience the festivities for themselves and to get interested and involved in the idea of a multicultural Center.

In addition to using the monies raised at the festival to fund A3D goals, 10% of the proceeds from the Salem CultureFest will be donated to the Salem School Foundation to assist raising much needed funds for Salem’s public schools. Any additional funds raised at the Salem CulturFest will help A3D’s humanitarian efforts in Senegal, West Africa. Through the Salem CultureFest, A3D’s wish is to bring true meaning to the phrase: “act locally and think globally.

” For more information on how to volunteer for the Salem CultureFest go to: www. a3dinc. org and friend them on myspace at  myspace.com/salemculturefest.

Thankfully for you I have just what you need – an all day long music fest.

Witchstock

We wrote about Witchstock a few months back but wanted to remind you now that they have all their events finalized.

Witchstock is large-scale free, non-profit, all ages, outdoor music festival held right here in our very own Salem Willows Park Amphitheater on Saturday July 5th from 2pm-10pm.  And continuing festivities from 10pm till close over at Dodge Street.

In addition to eight great rock, alternative, reggae, funk, hip-hop, electronica, jazz, and soul bands (many from around here) there will be plenty of family friendly things to do like free face-painting, temporary tattoos, stuff for kids and the kid in all of us.

For the full line-up and to get any other information about this great event check out the Witchstock myspace profile.

“Toast” Benefit for The Art Corner

Music

Friday June 27th

• Karem Cameron (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) DARQ ( 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• On the Grille Night @ Dodge Street
• Los Sugar Kings (mambo-salsa dance party 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• DJ Ondrej! (house, trance 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Grateful Ted (rock 8pm) @ The Lobster Shanty
• Kevin Kennedy (contemporary soft rock) @ The Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Cee Block (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Lisa Love Experience (dance, rock, pop, 80′s) @ Rockafellas
• Matt Tentindo (singer / guitar) @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby
• Classmates @ (8-11:30pm) Strombergs

Saturday June 28th

• Charlie Chesterman and the Motorbikes w/ special guest Barrence Whitfield (7pm) @ Ward 2 Social Club for TOAST
• Maggie Scott (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) The Willows ( 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Zullo (hip hop) @ Dodge Street
• Bangalore (9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• DJ Zati (10pm) @ Fresh Taste of Asia
• Saturday Acoustic Jam (2:00PM – 5:00PM) Esthema (fusion, jazz, progressive 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• TBA @ The Lobster Shanty
• Tony Gallo (jazz) @ The Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Cee Block (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Wildfire (dance, rock, pop, 80’s) @ Rockafellas
• 5 Funny Females @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby (upstairs)
• Dis n’ Dat Band @ (8-11:30pm) Strombergs

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

WALL·E (G)
Friday, Saturday & Sunday at 12:15, 2:45, 5:15, 7:30 and 9:40

Get Smart (PG-13)
Friday, Saturday & Sunday 11:00AM, 1:45, 4:15, 7:15 and 9:50

Kung Fu Panda (PG)
Friday, Saturday & Sunday 11:30AM, 2:15, 4:45, 7:00 and 9:15

The Gathering at Salem will be showing:

Beach Party (PG-13)
Friday 8PM

Insider Picks

Like we blogged about earlier this week it’s time to support the locals so Friday night put your best black on and head over to the Bangkok for the first night of DARQ a goth / industrial venture here in the goth mecca of Salem. If we don’t support our local artists who will? Speaking of local artists, start your Saturday night off at the Ward 2 Social club on East Collins Street at Toast: a benifit for the Art Corner which recently burnt to smithereens. After the bell tolls for Toast at ten keep the groove movin’ and get over to Gulu-Gulu to check out Esthema for some fun fusion funky jazz.

Many of the areas local artists, photographers and businesses use the framing services of  The Art Corner faithfully knowing that they always try to make a positive impact on our community.  Now it is our turn to help them. Being a patron of the arts and loving to see small local business succeed, we feel this benefit is a worthy cause. Even though this info is all over town it’s our pleasure to repost the following.

“Toast” to Benefit The Art Corner

Saturday, June 28, 2008

Ward 2 Social Club – 1 East Collins Street – Salem

TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT THE SALEM CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, 265 ESSEX STREET AND EXPERIMENTAL ART GALLERY AND STUDIO IN SALEM’S ARTISTS ROW.  You may also contact Sara Ashodian at 781- 771-2587.

The Salem Arts Association will host a Benefit for The Art Corner on Saturday, June 28, 2008 at the Ward 2 Social Club from 7pm to 10pm.

Tickets are $10.

The event includes music by Charlie Chesterman and the Motorbikes with a special guest appearance by Barrence Whitfield.

Raffles will include juried works of craft and art, artist designed jewelry and gift certificates donated by local artists and business owners.
With special thanks to the folks and businesses who have donated funds, materials and gift certificates for our raffle:  Jennifer Bell, Cafe Graziani, Carol Dearborn, Digital Imaging, Ditto Editions, Fire Fox Studio, The Fool’s Mansion, Sandy Heaphy and the Kensington-Stobart Gallery, Marine Arts Gallery, Mickey Northcutt, Pamplemousse, The Salem Chamber of Commerce, Salem Main Streets, Ward 2 Social Club, and more on the way!

This Saturday Salem will be hosting it’s first official “Clean Energy Day” in conjunction with the Living Green & Renewable Energy Fair.

Everyone is talking “Green” these days and while I’m no tree-hugger if I can save a buck here and there while doing something environmentally friendly I’m all for it. The Old Town Hall will have vendors and booths set up to inform you about renewable energy, transportation, building and remodeling, lawn and garden, organic food and locally grown produce and household products.

Over at CinemaSalem at 10am a free showing of the propaganda film Killowatt Ours.

Filmmaker Jeff Barrie’s retort to the Vice President about energy usage and proposed proliferation of coal burning power plants. It’s an hour long trip down the “were killing the earth” road filmed about 5 years ago. If you can wade through all the people are evil tripe you will find some easy to impliment common sense steps to help lessen your impact on our planet.
- Creasey Silo

Even The Gathering is getting in on the festivites with a series of talks.

• 11 am – 12 pm: Salem Goes Green / Wind 101 presented by Cindy Keegan
• 12 pm – 1 pm: Living With Climate Change presented by Jeff Barz-Snell
• 1 pm – 2 pm: Greenscapes 101 presented by Barbara Warren
• 2 pm – 3 pm: Green Remodeling presented by Paul Marquis

Personal Note

Adjusting your lifestyle to be more environmentally is simple to do and shouldn’t cost you anything. You will see some vendors (or Electricity Companies) who want you to pay big bucks to offset your usage. People want you to purchase carbon credits in order to make you feel good about that plane you took to Hawaii for your eco vacation. Don’t fall into the trap – don’t get scammed. Instead of paying some guy $20 so he will allegedly plant a tree in the rain forest you can plant a tree right here in Salem.

I started bringing my own bag (a duffel bag like you take to the gym) to Steve’s Market when I shop for groceries. I also turn of all the lights when I leave a room (and my electricity bill showed a noticeable decrease). Replacing some bulbs in your house with the green friendly bulbs is an easy first step to take.

Just remember to do your homework and watch your cash.

From their site:

Created by two Salem web geeks, Marc Amos & Angelo Simeoni, the Build Guild is a monthly event (Starting in July 2008, and occurring every 2nd Tuesday of the month) where folks in the web industry—designers, coders, project managers, hobbyists, etc.—can get together to talk web, debate industry topics, share ideas, make professional connections, land gigs, and discuss the real reasons why mustaches need to make a comeback

I realize this about a month away but with the summer here and everyone having plans I figured it best to get the word out now (as I am already getting emails about it).

If you are interested in attending, make it known via upcoming.yahoo.com (a free account is required). Also you can follow their updates via twitter @buildguild. While you’re over at twitter don’t forget to friend us also @saleminsider.

Lately there have been some great jazz vocalists and bands playing in Salem so they have garnered a few write ups and some insider picks on the Weekend Warrior (what to do this weekend) posts. Salem’s musical offerings are of a much broader spectrum than only jazz. On any given week you can find hip-hop, experimental, dance/pop, R&B, rock, folk, blue grass, punk and soon to be goth shows around town.

Taking the musical ball and running with it, the Witchstock Music Festival is now entering it’s fifth year as one of the premier summer music events around.

From their myspace page:

WITCHSTOCK is a FREE, all ages, outdoor music festival founded in 2004 by myself (Madison) and Scott (The 80′s Man) which takes place every July at the Salem Willows shell stage overlooking the harbor…Salem, Massachusetts…designed to spotlight local, musical talent and enjoy a beautiful venue!

This summer 2008: 5th Annual Witchstock Date: Saturday July 5th (4TH OF JULY WEEKEND!!) (Raindate on the 12th) Hours: 2PM – 10PM (We Extended the hours this summer into the night so we can do a light show!) We are showcasing 8 bands from Boston, New Hampshire, New Jersey, and North Shore Area favorites!! Also…It’s an all ages show!! So there will be some free, fun stuff for the kiddies in the earlier part of Witchstock(2pm -4pm), face painting, temporary tattoos!….and some free stuff for the adults in the later hours as well.

If you are interested in being part of the action Madison is looking for some volunteers. You can contact her via the Witchstock myspace profile. If you just want to come and enjoy the music I suggest you come early, bring your chair-in-a-bag or blanket and get a nice spot where you will be comfortable for the long haul. Also this year, the fun doesn’t stop at 10PM. Dodge Street Bar and Grille will continue the extravaganza till 1am. And if I know anything about Salem in the summer – there will be a kickin’ after party till the sun comes up on Sunday morning.

Stay tuned for more info on this great event as it comes in.

The weather might have been chilly Saturday afternoon but the band was hot, playing a mix of salsa and jazz that had everybody on the front steps of the Old Town Hall tapping to the music. People young and old brought their chairs, grabbed some food, ice cream and coffee and gathered in Derby Square for the first performance of this years festival.

Juan’s outstanding violin and vocals were backed up by some great musicians playing an interesting mix of viola, cello, base, sax, trombone, guitar, percussion, and keyboards. If you missed this fun energy filled set you can hear some tunes on his myspace page. Chavez’s band will be a hard act to follow and if the turnout was any indicator of future events, plan to get there early.

The only downside to this out door free event was the proliferation of unsupervised children running around yelling and constantly pestering the onlookers and band alike. At one point it got so bad the band leader mentioned it between songs. We love free cultural events but if pet owners can keep their dogs on a leash certain parents should take a lesson from them. (End of tangent.)

Salem’s history with Jazz

Most people are unaware that Salem used to host many Big Bands during the golden age of Jazz and Swing. The Salem Willows once was home to the Charleshurst Ballroom, now the Willows Casino. When jazz greats like Cab Calloway, Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Louis Armstrong would tour, they would do a few feature nights in major cities and supporting nights in smaller venues. Ballrooms like Mosleys on the Charles in Dedham and Charleshurst in the Salem Willows were just as important as the Coconut Grove in Boston.

Back in the Twenty’s Boston was much further away than it is now. Luckily for Salem, Charlie Shribman who operated a chain of ballrooms in New England and handled bookings for Duke Ellington, Tommy Dorsey and other bands, owned the Charleshurst Ballroom. In the summer of 1927 the Duke played nine performances at the Ballroom along with a variety of other top musicians throughout the years.

2008 Festival Schedule

The 2008 Salem Jazz and Soul Festival will continue through the summer with three different locations concluding with a blowout weekend at the Willows. Make sure to swing by and enjoy some of the bands. Free music this good doesn’t come around that often.

Derby Square

June 14th 5-7PM
Zach Hillyard Band

July 12th 5-7PM
Paulo Stagnaro

August 9th 5-7PM
Manami Morita

August 10th 1-3PM
The Nat Simpkins Band

Museum Place Mall at the Fountain

August 10th 2-4PM
Boston Horns

Salem Willows

Aug. 15, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
The Dan King Band

Aug. 16, 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m.
Ken Clark Ogan Trio
Brothers from Another Planet
Parker Wheeler Blues Project
The Mystics
Los Sugar Kings

Aug. 16, Noon – 4:00 p.m.
Eric Reardon and the Juke Joint All-Stars at
Hobbs’ Juke Joint

Aug. 17, 1-4 p.m.
Follow Hymn Gospel Choir
Marty Rowen and Last Call for Blues

]]> http://www.thesaleminsider.com/2008/05/12/salem-jazz-and-soul-festival/feed/ 2 http://www.thesaleminsider.com/2008/04/15/fresh-locally-grown-food/ http://www.thesaleminsider.com/2008/04/15/fresh-locally-grown-food/#comments Tue, 15 Apr 2008 10:00:54 +0000 Glen Hughes http://www.thesaleminsider.com/?p=206 Just because we are smack dab in the middle of restaurant week doesn’t mean we can’t talk about your cooking your own food at home (maybe next week sometime). The number one thing that all chefs will tell you is that in order for your meals to go from good to great you need to have the freshest ingredients possible. Treehuggers on the other hand, will tell you that in order to save the planet you need to buy locally grown foods to keep the transportation pollution to a minimum. Now in Salem you can help the environment and promote gastrointestinal goodness.

(c) Forrest Frazier

Chris Crandall over at In Season is offering a great service to the people of Salem who are interested in getting some locally grown / harvested food. They have New England suppliers for fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, bread and dry goods and deliver it to down town Salem each Saturday. All you need to do is log on to their website, click on the shop links and find what you want. Saturday you mossy on down to Pamplemousse where they will be set across the street from 11am to 2pm and pick up your fresh food.

This time of year there is not too much in the way of fresh fruits and veggies but I’m assured that is soon to come in the warmer months. For now, check out their other selections including meat, dairy, breads and jams.

The Lobster Shanty

Is back in action. Starting today warm beer, lousy food, rude bartenders, surly waitresses, cranky cooks and rowdy regulars have their summer home back. Look for cheap beer, live music and Salem friends new and old to be hanging out on Artists Row.

Gulu- Gulu Cafe

Our friends over at G2C are back in full force with a brand spanking new liquor license and fun new hours. Open till 10pm Sunday – Wednesday and till 1am Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Bring on the beers!

No, this is not an April fools post. It’s the real deal baby.

People visit Salem year round. Obviously October is the busiest month of the year but tourists flock to this historic city from April till November, giving the residents a brief respite during the winter.

If you are thinking of coming to Salem there are a few options on how to get here. You can take the MBTA Commuter Rail and get off at the Salem Depot which is a 3 minute walk to down town. From May to November you can take the Salem Ferry which goes from Central Wharf (New England Aquarium) in Boston to the Blaney Street Dock in Salem. But for most people driving is the way to get here.

Now that it is April 1 (no joke) street cleaning is in effect and parking enforcement is stronger. Last year Salem brought in $1.7 Million in parking fees. This post is your guide to the dos and don’t of parking in the Witch City.

Where can I park in Salem?

Parking lots and garages are you best bet if you are unfamiliar with the area.

• Museum Place Mall garage
• South Harbor garage ( on Derby Street)
• MBTA Commuter Rail parking lot
• Blaney Street lot
• Church Street lot
• Crombie Street lot
• Sewell Street lot by the YMCA
• Front Streetl lot behind the Fire Station
• Riley Plaza lot in front of the Post Office

What about resident parking?

Like other cities Salem has plenty of streets in its historic neighborhoods that offer resident parking. All residents who live in an area that offers resident only parking can go to the Parking Office at 1 New Liberty Street across from the Visitor Center and get a resident parking sticker.

In October, any resident can get a month long resident pass allowing them to park on streets that have temporary resident only parking due to the Halloween season.

Tell me about “on street” parking

If you are coming up for the day or perhaps a short stay at one of our B&B’s you might be interested in on-street parking. In the down town and surrounding areas many streets have metered spots. Parking meters run from 8am to 5 or 6pm after that you can park in the spot for free. Unlike the exorbitantly prices you would pay in Boston (5 minutes per quarter) one quarter will buy you an hour in Salem with most meters having a max time of two hours. Meters take nickels, dimes and quarters so remember to bring change.

Parking Enforcement

Salem meter maids hit the pavement with a vengeance every morning. Don’t expect to be given any slack… ever. Do yourself a favor and remember where and when you parked so you can avoid these Salem witches.

If you do find yourself with an orange greeting card on your windshield you can take care of it any time of day or night. Simple meter expired parking violations only cost $10 which is less than parking a full day in the garages during Halloween season. For your convenience there is a 24 hour drop box in front of City hall where you can pay your ticket.

Fox 25 news babe and Swampscott local Kim Carrigan will be in town tomorrow night for a special fund raiser. Kim does a good amount of philanthropic work with North Shore Arc. The North Shore Arc is dedicated to providing lifelong individualized supports to people with, or at risk of developing disabilities, and their families, ensuring opportunities to choose and realize their goals of where and how they learn, live, work, socialize and play. Friday night she will be at the Lyceum as the evenings hostess with the mostess.

13th Annual Wine Tasting & Auction to benefit the North Shore Arc

Wine events are growing more popular than ever in Salem and this event looks like a real winner. Where else can you have some great food, taste a good selection of wine, bid on some fantastic prizes all while having fun and putting your money to good use? According to an article in the Gazette:

This year’s auction promises to be our best one yet. We have a really unique variety of items for our auction including spa packages, Las Vegas getaway packages, tickets to popular local performances such as Blue Man Group, a children’s party package at “Pump It Up,” tickets to Boston’s Duck Boat Tours, a yacht cruise, a Derek Sanderson autographed hockey stick, Kevin Youkilis autographed baseball and a Celtics autographed basketball and a whole host of other exciting items that people continue to contribute.

One of Salem’s strengths is its commitment to helping others. Many fine organizations call this city their home and work hard to make it a better place. Remember that when you support this charitable event or any of the others that we feature here, you are helping your neighbors.

Looking for a good night out in Salem every month but you aren’t a member of any fine civic organizations in town? The Salem Witches Pub Crawl is a fun night out and you don’t have to be a witch, or from Salem nor do you have to crawl or even drink at a pub. Here is the official word.

There are many fine organizations and groups in Salem and beyond that are dedicated to finding solutions to the serious issues that face the Witch and Pagan community …

The Salem Witches’ Pub Crawl is NOT such a group!

While we honor the work that others do, we also know that Witches just want to have fun once in awhile! So let’s get out, meet one another, and enjoy one another’s company! Our group is disorganized. We don’t have leaders. We don’t do public circles. We’re not battling for civil rights. And, we’re not interested in whether you have three degrees or for that fact three degrees of separation from someone somebody else doesn’t like. Nobody cares! Let’s live life to the fullest and enjoy ourselves!

Yeah, we meet in pubs but not every one of us drinks and we’re ok if you want to come and just relax. We feel this is a great way to build community and get to know one another and we’re excited to have you take part!

How It Works
Once a month, we pick a night that’s easy for a broad range of people and we pick a location in Salem and descend upon it like a flock of crows. You don’t have to be a Witch to participate. You just have to have an open mind. Best Witches!

Pub Crawl Tonight

So tonight is the night. Put on your cape, hop on your broom and fly down to Capt’s on the wharf at 7pm.

Oh and if you like Pub Crawls be sure to let us know, TheSalemInsider.com does a killer all day- all night crawl every September.

The following paragraph stood out to me

The upstairs hall makes an impressive venue for public functions, and it’s been suggested in this space on several occasions that the City Council should consider it as a permanent location for major public hearings and inaugural observances. Local promoter David Pelletier has suggested that a retail tenant be found for the ground floor and the city seek to make the function hall home to one or more cultural institutions that would offer regular performances there.

As you know, we at TheSalemInsider.com don’t comment on the politics of Salem, there are other blogs that do a good job of that, however this is more of a cultural comment. I love the idea of having the city council hold hearings here, and I think it would be great to see inaugurations happen at this location. I can almost picture it now, the new mayor standing in front of this building and everyone in the court yard watching the ceremony. It sure beats people stuffed into some municipal building.

What I’m not fond of is Mr. Pelletier’s suggestion of a retail tenant taking up space on the ground floor. I have to admit I don’t know the specifications of his proposal but I do know that this is a large space that works well being open to the public for a variety of events. Recently I’ve been there for a blood drive, the Spring Fling event, art shows and live music. I am all in favor of the Old Town Hall being used more often but, it would be a shame for other Salem organizations to loose this historic space.

Music

Friday March 7th

• Acme Music (dance, rock, pop) @ Rockafellas
• Cherry S/T (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Wendy Nottonson (jazz 6:30-9:30) The Kicking Moon (rock 10) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Radio Scotvoid Productions aka RSVP (Alternative / Experimental / Electronica 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Soul Baby (R&B, Funk, Soul) @ The Lyceum

Saturday March 8th

• New Life (dance, rock, pop, disco) @ Rockafellas
• Akiko Aoki (jazz 6:30-9:30) On 3 (rock 10) @ Bangkok Paradise
• The Winstons (rock) @ Dodge Street
• 2nd Saturday Bluegrass Jam (2:30PM – 5:30PM) 500 Plastic Dragons (cd release party- Indie / Pop / Country 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Grateful Ted (classic rock 9pm) @ The Lyceum

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

10,000 BC (PG-13)
Fri & Sat: (11:15 AM), (1:45), (4:15), 7:00, 9:35
Sun: (11:15 AM), (1:45), (4:15), 7:00

Spiderwick Chronicles(PG)
Fri & Sat: (12:15), (2:30), (4:45), 7:15, 9:30
Sun: (12:15), (2:30), (4:45), 7:15

Vantage Point (PG-13)
no-times listed

Art

Body Politics — Visions in blood and ink: the return of Maori tattoo @ PEM
This exhibit is a joy for photography fans and those interested in an insight to other cultures. Remember Salem residents get in for FREE.

Insider Picks

Last month their gig was canceled due to snow but tonight the insider pick goes to the always fun Soul Baby playing over at the Lyceum. Saturday get out an support local Salem band 500 Plastic Dragons as they celebrate their CD release. And for all you Sunday Brunchers, Sixty2 on Wharf is jumping into the heavily saturated market starting Sunday.

As always have a blast, don’t drink & drive and tell us about your weekend.

Witch City Rickshaw is looking for drivers for the upcoming season. If you are 18, responsible, hardworking and active this is a great seasonal job. Mr. Chris is hosting an open house to give you the ins and outs of the pedicab business.

Interested? You can RSVP via MySpace or swing down to 63 Jefferson Ave in Salem on Monday Apr 07, 2008
at 7:00 PM.

Special Events / Festivals

Salem Film Fest 2008
Earlier this week we did a full write up on the Salem Film Fest which kicked off Thursday night. It’s going on all week and there are plenty of great movies to see and fun events at local establishment. We are big proponents of broadening our cultural horizons, this is a perfect opportunity to do just that.

Music

Friday February 29th

• Richie Rich and the 24 Karat Funk Band @ Rockafellas
• The Illegals w/ Dave Fisher (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Steve Marvin (jazz 6:30-9:30) Eternity (rock 10) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Machine 457 (Electronica / pop / rock 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu

Saturday March 1st

• Pete Demon & Cocaine Tongue (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Shadowbox Blues Band (blues 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

Salem Film Fest Schedule

Vantage Point (PG-13)
Fri & Sat: (11:20 AM), (1:30), (4:00), 7:30, 9:50
Sun: (11:20 AM), (1:30), (4:00), 6:00

Spiderwick (PG)
Friday and Saturday at (12:15), (2:30), (4:45), 7:15 and 9:30;
Sunday – Thursday at (12:15), (2:30), (4:45) and 7:15.

Art

Body Politics — Visions in blood and ink: the return of Maori tattoo @ PEM
This exhibit in its first week is a joy for photography fans and those interested in an insight to other cultures. Remember Salem residents get in for FREE.

Insider Picks

This weekend the insider picks are easy to make. With the Salem Film Fest coming around only once a year its time to head to the movies. Stand out movies this weekend look like B.I.K.E, Everything Will be OK, and Red Without Blue. There are plenty of other great movies coming up during the week. If movies aren’t your bag, dance your booty off with Richie Rich Friday night.

As always have a blast, don’t drink & drive and tell us about your weekend.

No this isn’t an article about the Purple Scorpion or the soon to open Witch City Ink, it’s about some beautiful photographs, the Peabody Essex Museum and moko.

(c) Hans Neleman

Body Politics — Visions in blood and ink: the return of Maori tattoo

Open now and running through February 2009, the PEM is showing a photographic exhibit by Hans Neleman which delves into the Maori recapturing and embracing their cultural identity which was stolen from them under British rule. Neleman gained the trust of the indigenous Maori people of New Zealand photographing the resurgence of moko and witnessing the revival of the Maori language.

What is moko?

Traditionally the Tā moko is the permanent body and face marking by Māori. It is distinct from what we think of as tattoo’s in that the skin was carved by uhi (chisels) rather than punctured with a needle. Using an uhi (which looks like a back scratcher made from albatross bone) leaves the skin with grooves, rather than the smooth surface people with modern tattoos have.

Moko is a rite of passage, a road map to the wearers life. Each part of the moko is distinct and tells of the persons tribe, family and status in society. As such, each is unique and can be read by others, it is an outward profile of who you are. Moko can be worn by both men and women however, women tend to have only their lips and chin done while men do the entire face.

About the photographs.

As a photographer and having read Neleman’s book Moko–Maori Tattoo I can tell you that his use of large format photography to capture minute detail works wonderfully with his natural ability to connect with a subject. Many of his images are captured in a studio, not the natural environment for the average person. Yet he is able to put them at ease and allows their personality to show through. It is as though you can see through time and look beyond preconceived anachronistic notions.

On the heals of the Oscars (yes there were Oscars this year) where American actors were shut out this year, Cinema Salem is proud to host the Salem Film Fest February 28th – March 6th.

This year, join a celebration of international film and music in Salem, Massachusetts, America’s first international city.

Enjoy outstanding features, documentaries, and short films from around the world, participate in face-to-face discussions with filmmakers, and party with world-class musicians in one of America’s most beautiful and historic cities.

This seven-day event will showcase brilliant, emerging, and controversial film from Spain, The Netherlands, Thailand, Tuva, Nigeria, Russia, China, and the US.

The films will be shown at Cinema Salem, times are posted on salemfilmfest.com (warning: it is an old frames style website and wont work properly in some browsers) . Events such as lectures, discussions with film makers, insight to the industry and parties supporting the films will be held around town. The Salem Waterfront Hotel stepped up to the plate and is the major sponsor with many other local businesses kicking in and doing their part to encourage and support this endeavor.

With 28 different films being shown you might want to see more than one. Cinema Salem has constructed multiple single and multi-day passes which allow you to save some money when seeing more than one film. Now go get your culture on.

Special Events

Runway Fashion Show
The Woman’s Friend Society is hosting their biggest fund raiser of the year, their Runway Fashion Show at the Salem Waterfront Hotel, Friday, Feb. 22. A cash bar with hot and cold hors d’oeuvres opens at 6:30 p.m., and the show on the runway begins at 7:30 p.m. Reservations are Required and cost $45.00. You may pick up reservation cards at the participating shops or you may contact: womansfriend@verizon.net for reservations.

This is a great organization that has been helping women in Salem for over one hundred years. If you have the time and the money attending this Fashion Show is a great way to help out our community.

Music

Friday February 22nd

• Moonglow @ Rockafellas
• Autumn Above (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Karen Cameron (jazz 6:30-9:30) AJ Edwards (rock 10) @ Bangkok Paradise
• CentripitalForce (Electronica / Drum & Bass / Breakbeat 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu

Saturday February 23rd

• Wildfire @ Rockafellas
• Demon’s Alley, Crash Midnight & Switchblade Suicide (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Matt Dorko and Larry Kukers (jazz 6:30-9:30) Mamadou (rock 10) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Bring Back Pluto (funk / jazz 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

Vantage Point (PG-13)
Fri & Sat: (11:20 AM), (1:30), (4:00), 7:30, 9:50
Sun: (11:20 AM), (1:30), (4:00), 6:00

Spiderwick (PG)
Friday and Saturday at (12:15), (2:30), (4:45), 7:15 and 9:30;
Sunday – Thursday at (12:15), (2:30), (4:45) and 7:15.

Fools Gold (PG-13)
Friday and Saturday at (11:30 AM), (2:00), (4:30), 7:00 and 9:40;
Sunday-Thursday at (11:30 AM), (2:00), (4:30) and 7:00.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show (R)
Fri: 11:30 PM

Salem Film Fest 2008 - Although not this weekend plan some serious time at the movies from February 28th to March 6th

Art

Samuel McIntire, Carving an American Style @ PEM
This exhibit is a must-see for Salem residents (who get in for FREE) and comes to an end on February 24th, SEE IT NOW!

Insider Picks

With the snow already falling and the weatherman telling us it will last most of the weekend our picks are easy. First stop after work is off to get a snow storm beverage. Do you know what to do in Salem when there is a snow storm? Our Friday pic has to be Gulu-Gulu the sweet beats that Centripitalforce lays down is a perfect mix for the chill vibe of this urban oasis. Saturday Dodge Street is a must if you want some good old ass kickin’ rock-n-roll. Switchblade Suicide is a relatively new band but we saw them a while back in Somerville and they busted out.

As always have a blast, don’t drive and tell us about it.

Perhaps I was correct when I stated “now is the time to pick up retail space in the pedestrian mall.” When Cool Jewls moved out of their corner spot in the mall, Salem’s Vintage Photography saw an opportunity and moved right in. The prime location will surely boost their bottom line. Acupuncture Solutions is also moving from their current home next to Cinema Salem to a more prominent spot just down from Essex N.Y. Deli & Pizza.

Another move from inside the Museum Place mall and expansion into a more prominent location in the pedestrian Mall was Signatures. The womens clothiers storefront and interior looks much more clean and sophisticated. Now if they could get their website out of the early 90′s they would achieve a total transformation.

Fool’s Mansion closed its doors which is sad to see, now the goth kids will have to be content with Hot Topic. Update: According to the current owner a couple has agreed to purchase the shop and continue carrying its current clothing lines hopefully re-opening in April.  The papers may be passed as early as next week. On the other end of Essex Street however, Salem’s own manwitch Christian Day is set to open up his new venture Hex. Salem’s latest witch shop, in a fantastic location between Harrison’s Comics and Laura Lanes Skin Care.

Also hitting the ground running is Salem Wine Imports (seems like we mention them often around here) with a variety of offerings. The newly reopened Spirit’s is packing in the customers at their bar and still working out their dining issues. The old Bella Luna space has been built out and opened as Sixty2 on Wharf it looks to be a sweet summer spot.

The pedestrian mall will also be seeing an other new shop next month when Witch City Ink opens up across from Pamplemousse. Witch City Ink will be Salem’s first down town tattoo shop since the 1940′s. It’s owner a Salem resident was a driving force behind this art form becoming legal once again in Massachusetts, and prides himself in his clean shops and exceptional artists.

It’s nice to report on Salem businesses opening up and doing well. Keep your eyes open for more reviews of the shops mentioned here and a few in depth inteviews with the people that make it happen.

In keeping with the emerging theme of education during this school vacation week,  Frater Alephomen from the O.T.O. sent us a note regarding a lecture tonight.

The Knights Templar Oasis
Presents: Microcosmic Classes
When: Tue, Feb 19, Doors Open 7:30pm classes Begin at 8:00pm and go to – 9:00pm (Sometimes 9:30pm)
Where: The Temple – which is at 175 Essex Street (Above Samantha’s Costume) door number ONE
This week’s class description: Short topics on magic, mysticism, philosophy, etc…
Open to the public with a $5 donation.

Now for a little background on The Knights Templar Oasis.

The Knights Templar Oasis, based in Salem, Massachusetts, is an O.T.O. body serving the Thelemic community in Massachusetts and the surrounding New England states. We teach and practice Thelemic ceremonial magick, celebrate the Gnostic Mass, and are chartered to initiate through the III°. The interests of our membership range widely across esoteric practices and spiritual systems, but all find unity in their acceptance of the principles of The Book of the Law (Liber AL vel Legis).

The letters O.T.O. stand for Ordo Templi Orientis, the Order of Oriental Templars, or Order of the Temple of the East. O.T.O. is an Outer Thelemic Order which is dedicated to the high purpose of securing the Liberty of the Individual and his or her advancement in Light, Wisdom, Understanding, Knowledge, and Power through Beauty, Courage, and Wit, on the Foundation of Universal Brotherhood. The structure of the O.T.O., like that of Freemasonry and the ancient mystery schools, is based upon a graded series of initiations or Degrees. In these Degrees, the O.T.O. seeks to instruct the individual by allegory and symbol in the profound mysteries of Existence, and thereby to assist each to discover his or her own true Nature

Eric sent over a note that said:

Restarting tastings every Tuesday starting the 19th. Greek, Austria, and Swiss will be opened and evaluated. Come join us for an adventure in “emerging wines” at 6;30 or later.

If wine is something you have always wanted to know more about, Salem Wine Imports may be offering classes. For those of you who would be interested in attending wine classes, please contact them. If they can get enough interest classes would be every other Thurs. from 7-9.PM. A nominal fee of between $15 to $20 depending on wines tried.

It’s great to see a new business off and running! Good luck and go get your drink on.

Music

Friday February 15th

• The Hangovers @ Rockafellas
• The Willows @ Dodge Street
• Christy Bluhm (jazz 6:30-9:30) New Water Hillbillys (rock 10) @ Bangkok Paradise
• DJ Ondrej! (house & trance) @ Gulu Gulu

Saturday February 16th

• Lisa Love Experience @ Rockafellas
• Tottaro and the Brigands @ Dodge Street
• Akiko Aoki (jazz 6:30-9:30) Playing with Fire (rock 10) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Cyanide Valentine (8pm) @ Gulu Gulu

Sunday February 17th

• Greek Night @ Rockafellas
• Harvesting Horror @ Dodge Street
• Jazz Jam! (6 – 10) @ Bangkok Paradise

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

Fool’s Gold (PG-13)
Fri & Sat: (11:20 AM), (2:00), (4:30), 7:00, 9:30
Sun: (11:20 AM), (2:00), (4:30), 7:00

There Will Be Blood (R)
Fri – Sun: 12:30, 3:45, 7:30

Juno (PG-13)
Fri & Sat: (11:30 AM), (1:45), (4:00), 7:15, 9:40
Sun: (11:30 AM), (1:45), (4:00), 7:15

The Rocky Horror Picture Show (R)
Fri: 11:30 PM

Salem Film Fest 2008 - Although not this weekend plan some serious time at the movies from February 28th to March 6th

Art

Samuel McIntire, Carving an American Style @ PEM
This exhibit is a must-see for Salem residents (who get in for FREE) and comes to an end on February 24th.

Insider Picks

It’s not often that Czech DJ’s show up in Salem, so Friday night a trip to Gulu Gulu is in order. Keep in mind however that they are having issues with their liquor license (they discuss it on their website) so you might want to down a cocktail prior to heading over.

Saturday night the Lisa Love Experience is sure to get you out on the Rockafellas dancefloor. The last time they played TheSalemInsider.com crew fired up an after hours loft party that went till the sun came up. I wonder if there will be a repeat performance.

Since many people have an extra day in your weekend head over to the PEM and show your Salem ID to get in free and check out the McIntire exhibit. Many of the homes in town were build by him and this is a fascinating peek in to life, art and craftsmanship in Salem a couple of hundred years ago.

SalemOpen.net
A long, long time ago in a galaxy far, far away there was a free internet provider for down town Salem: SalemOpen.net. If you are in the down town area you might even be able to log on to the network but apparently there was a disagreement between the provider and the merchants so the provider pulled the plug but left the hardware in place.

List of Salem locations with free wi-fi

Even though the SalemOpen.net project is dead, there are plenty of merchants that realize the value of offering wireless internet access to their customers.

• Cinema Salem Cafe
• Cornerstone Books
• Front Street Coffee house
• Fuel
• Gulu Gulu Cafe
• Hawthorne Hotel
• Jaho Coffee & Tea
• McDonalds
• Salem Public Library
• Salem Waterfront Hotel
• Starbucks

Also, if you have ever spent time at one of these locations then you know there are plenty of other unsecured wi-fi points in town that an unscrupulous person could use for free access (you would think that business would know better these days).

Map of free wireless access points in Salem MA

Where do you like to pop open your lap top and while away the hours?

This sculpture in front of the PEM was by far the best

due to the weather many sculputures like this one in front of New Civilitea met an untimely demise

We photographed all the sculptures and will get them up on our flickr page shortly.

Whats going on in Salem the weekend of February 8, 9 and 10

Festivals / Special Events:

• 6th Annual Salem’s So Sweet Chocolate & Ice Sculpture Festival all weekend
• Red Cross Blood drive @ the old Town Hall 10am – 3pm Saturday

Music

Friday February 8th

• The Love Dogs @ Rockafellas
• Meatstick @ Dodge Street
• Alana Manning (jazz 6:30-9:30) Speakeasy (rock 10) @ Bangkok Paradise
• DJ Seth @ Gulu Gulu

Saturday February 9th

• Spiral Circus @ Rockafellas
• ol Brown Shoe (jam) @ Dodge Street
• Jon Kelly and Tom Petrekas (jazz 6:30-9:30) Scratch my Back (rock 10) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Chaz & The Motorbikes (8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• renowned jazz vocalist Dane Vannatter and his quartet (Benefit Concert for Salem Public Schools 8pm) @ Peabody Essex Museum Atrium

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

Fool’s Gold (PG-13)
Fri & Sat: (11:20 AM), (2:00), (4:30), 7:00, 9:30
Sun: (11:20 AM), (2:00), (4:30), 7:00

There Will Be Blood (R)
Fri – Sun: 12:30, 3:45, 7:30

Juno (PG-13)
Fri & Sat: (11:30 AM), (1:45), (4:00), 7:15, 9:40
Sun: (11:30 AM), (1:45), (4:00), 7:15

The Rocky Horror Picture Show (R)
Fri: 11:30 PM

Art

Samuel McIntire, Carving an American Style @ PEM
This exhibit is a must-see for Salem residents (who get in for FREE) and comes to an end on February 24th.

Insider Picks

If you want to start your Friday night off early, swing by Hamilton Hall for a Chocolate & Wine Tasting at 6:30pm. Once you’ve had your fill put your night into high gear. Tonight if you like martinis, swing / blues music, dancing and partying your ass off, head over to Rockafellas and tell the Love Dogs that “Big Daddy” sent you. If beer and Metal is more your style, Meatstick is rocking Dodge Street to it’s foundation.

Saturday (if you didn’t drink too much Friday night) help your neighbor and stock up on some karma points by giving blood at the old Town Hall during the day. Head to the PEM at night to hear Dane Vannatter perform some great jazz for a good cause, our Salem schools.

Don’t forget, all the ice sculptures around town are free to see and you could win some Salem booty if you pick up a Golden Ticket.