Reading has played a fundamental role in my life as well @Doctor_Smarty.

It is very cool to read about the North East Taproom. I played there two years ago, with some old heads that are the new regulars. Cool guys, but not necessarily big Phish fans.

I would argue that Reading has gone through some considerable changes since '96 Miracle-Mart. There are still a lot of the problems, but the influence of south american cultures has brought some racial tolerance. I've always known there was something bigger going on here though. That democratic club seems like a place to start digging.

I can only imagine your joy of leaving Reading PA in the dust for Portland OR. I will be in reading for around another year at least, and I will be making the best of it. I kinda love it here, because there is so much to do in the surrounding area. I like your article, except for the part where you talk mad shit and then say your haven't been here since 1996.