Welcome back, PA music lovers, to another issue of PA Musician Magazine! This issue marks 43 years since the paper began back in the fall of 1982. The idea was to earn some money so my parents could buy us Christmas gifts that year. Strange when I think back to those times and how the paper just keeps rolling on like a life force. Sure, it may have died if I hadn’t taken it over, but that was just destiny, as they say. When I think of all the faces who have graced our pages and the names of the bands and artists who have shaped the history of the Central PA music scene, it makes me happy to know the PA Musician family has been part of documenting it.
I’d like to thank all the supporters of the paper — whether as readers, advertisers, delivery helpers, writers, web techs, or the press team at Advance Local. Everyone plays a part in making the paper happen. Without my team, I’d be nothing. It’s like clockwork — the end of the month rolls around and it’s go time.
Biggest thanks go to Robin Noll — aka Mom, aka the mother of PA Musician Magazine. Forty-three years and she’s been part of every issue. Somehow she always makes it happen. This month she seems a little bored, but last month was one of those cross-your-fingers type of deals — we got it done with just minutes to spare.
It’s always a bit hectic waiting on last-minute ads. Did anyone email ANNA?! Will it show up in time? What will we do if Jim Price falls asleep and misses the deadline? Will Chris Rider remember to do his article after a long day at work? Is Rachel at the beach?! Did she do her article first? Eric Hoffman!! We never worry about Eric — he’s a grade-A student, always first with his. Yes, it’s stressful, and once those big press wheels start turning, there’s no stopping them. It’s like the wheels of time — KA CHUNK KA CHUNK (that’s how a press sounds, in case you were wondering) KA CHUNK! Then it’s off we go on the delivery train, driving all around with boxes filled with joy. When it’s all said and done, we take a sigh of relief and a day or two off, and then it starts up all over again. This is what I live for. I love my job and thank each and every one of you who have helped or supported along the way.
On to new advertiser news. The Allen Theatre in Annville, PA, is a classic, single-screen cinema and theatrical venue that traces its lineage back to the early 1900s. They showcase live acts from bands, comics, theatrical groups, and lecturers, as well as screen classic and art-house cinema. The Allen is also available for private events and hosts a variety of monthly activities such as the First Thursdays Jazz Series and Songwriters Circles.
The theatre is currently owned and managed by professional illusionist Michael Cantor and his wife, Cindy Vejar, who have added a used bookstore to the revamped café adjacent to the space called the Salamander Bookstore and Café. It’s a great spot to stop for a coffee and grab a paper while you’re there. You can find them at facebook/allentheatre or online at allentheatre.com.
That’s it for this month! Please, if you’d like to be part of our 43rd year of publication, give me a call or send a text to 717-636-4203, or email me at joshnoll@pamusician.net. Thanks again for being part of our family