You are right. I did not thoroughly read the original article. But let me say that if, then, he was carrying open, that in the mindset of the moment he may well institute a local theater policy not against those who open carry, but also against those who are licensed to carry concealed.
In PA, it is a relatively simple thing to do to obtain a CCDW for any PA resident, or for a resident of an adjoining state licensed in his own state. If you decide to open carry, you can expect to be stopped and questioned (harassed) by local police to show that you are not a person prohibited.
This kid, whatever his point, is still exhibiting poor judgment in advancing the interests of other carriers.(IMHO)
Well, the government would love you -- they don't have to regulate your freedoms away, you will give them up voluntarily!
And again, he's not a kid. When does he become a young adult, 35?
Personally, I grew up in the west (born in Wyoming) and am quite comfortable with responsible people carrying firearms openly. The more wannabe criminals see people openly carrying, the more they are likely to take their nefarious business elsewhere.
But I also understand the mindset of people who get the vapors over seeing someone with an unconcealed firearm and prefer to carry concealed myself.