1 5 t s
FREE!
® I ssue1297•December15,2020-J anuar y18,2021
HE R UNA P OL OG E T I C NE WA L B UM ‘ P OS I T I ONS ’
A N A I R A E D N A GR
WONDE RWOMAN1 984
SOARSI NT OY OURHOME
BOUNT I F ULGOURME T
J &R’ SST E AKHOUSE
PHOT OCRE DI T : DA VEME Y E RS/ RE PUBL I CRE CORDS
WRE ST L I NGCOL L E CT I BL E S
E VE RY T HI NGOL DI SHOT
THIS IS MY COLUMN as tofu, guacamole, and other examples of healthy cooking. This and the guilt factor: Every time I eat a roll or pastry, I feel like William Barr is standing over my shoulder. Having Richie home has been fun after not seeing him for 10 months. He is furloughed here in Long Island and working from home for two months while his Texas employer remains shuttered for in-person It doesn't feel like a month has working. It has been fun – how gone by since our last issue, else would I have watched The and it has been busy. Mandalorian and upcoming Last During this time, I've been on Airbender? It's like the old days three TV shows: “Mystic Noir,” when we watched Space “Long Island Talks,” and “The Invader Zim, Johnny Bravo and Business Power Hour With Dudley the Dragon together. Darren and the Music Man.” Like all of us, he's having a In case you missed these millennial retro thing, re-reading thrilling interviews, all are availHarry Potter books and looking able on Facebook. It was fun at his old Pokémon and Yu-Girehashing everything, talking about how Good Times started, Oh cards. Mr. Potter has a particular place in my heart; we Jimi Hendrix, the trinity interstarted out with me reading the views of Duane Allman, Jerry books to him, then us reading Garcia and Bruce Springsteen together, then him reading them that appeared here, and more. From the number of responses I by himself because I was too slow. I have seen every Harry got after the shows, the show Potter film at least five times. I'm were well viewed. With that in mind, we are expanding our list- a sucker as I flip through cable channels and come across ings of radio and TV shows. If Voldemort about to vaporize you've never seen Steve Beery someone. doing his Facebook stream, My wife, Sandy, has been you're missing out: Insightful. holding up the fort, plus cooking Business is still pretty dead meals I like along with the tofu. everywhere, and there are She has received the nickname plenty of seats at restaurants “Sparky.” She says it's because with good social distancing. In she lights up my life, I tell her its the past few months, we've enjoyed meals at Spuntino, Sea because she ignites. Somehow, she has put up with my many Cliff Bagel Café, Palmers, 317 schemes over the past 29 years. Main Street, J&R Steakhouse, Dang BBQ, Villa Milano, and, of She doesn't seem fazed if a bill collector is at the door, but it course, the always-popular Burger King (breakfast croissant seems incredibly important if I don't shut the bathroom light off. sandwiches), Arby's (good She also has taken on the unofReubens) and Popeye’s ficial job of restaurant review (chicken sandwich). photographer when we dine out. In spite of all this, I've lost One of her happiest moments five pounds in the last month. I was when Ukelele Ed put her in attribute this to my son being his cartoon. She was so proud home and preparing meals I wouldn't normally consider, such she was a “toon.” I told her she's
By B y R Ri ic ch h B Br ra an nc ci if fo or rt te e
always been one. One interesting thing is the number of people who have called me just to chat about the paper, what they're doing, and old times. I wrote that I love phone calls, not texts or emails; phone calls have a personal touch, and you can have a two sided conversation and get questions answered immediately. This seems to be confirmed by an article in The Wall Street Journal that people are returning to phone calls in droves. Lastly, I've been encouraged by everyone from my copier repairman to my physical therapist (both in their thirties), who confess they enjoy reading print publications much more than digital ones. There's something about sitting in your recliner, reading a magazine, and not having to stare at a screen for hours. I predict the return of print, big time.
2 • Good Times Magazine • December 15, 2020 - January 18, 2021
Many publications have cannibalized themselves by putting out a shoddy print product so you are forced to read the digital version. This is the equivalent of banks with one teller – it guarantees that you will have a bad banking experience in person and switch to online banking, which is much more cost effective for the bank. Finally, we can't do it alone. We need your support. We've tried to cover arts and entertainment on Long Island for the past 51 years, but we are deeply in debt. Take out an ad in Good Times. You'll be pleasantly surprised. Pick up your free copy at more 250 locations, and if you must, you can read the free edition at issuu.com/ goodtimesmag. To contact us: Call us at our Carle Place offices at (516) 280-2100. Happy and healthy holidays to everyone. The good times are coming.
HOT TIPS 584 Mineola Ave., Suite 2 Carle Place, NY 11514
(516) 280-2100 Fax: (516) 280-2103 E-MAIL: gtmag @optonline.net Check Us Out On Social Media
issuu.com/goodtimesmag goodtimesmag.com
Be A Holiday Hero: Donate Blood At Broadway Mall Hicksville's Broadway will be the site of a major New York Blood Center blood drive – and with plasma in such short supply during these troubled times, this is a good way to reach out and support those in serious need. The event is scheduled for December 20 from 11 am to 5 pm; get all the information and schedule your donations by calling (800) 933-2566; learn more at donate.nybc.org.
The Huntington Business Improvement District, Huntington Business Recovery Task Force, Huntington Township Chamber of Commerce, and Looks Great Services have brought a new “Holiday Spectacular” to Huntington, running through January 4. Guests can visit Wall Street to view the sights, including “The Tree of Hope” with lights and music daily, plus more surprises nightly. Local businesses will participate with special deals to promote the holiday season. Contributions towards the event will be accepted online through Go Fund Me and Facebook. All attendees must maintain social distancing guidelines, and masks are required. Information on the festivities can be found by calling (516) 236-3012.
Editorial Contributors Lloyd Carroll Jimi LaLumia Cody Bell Photography Randi Savron Wayne Herrschaft (headlampdigital.com) Distribution Barry Oliver Paul Timmons Mike Courtney
584 Mineola Ave., Suite 2 Carle Place, NY 11514 (516) 280-2100 FAX: (516) 280-2103 All Contents © 2021 Good Times Magazine Ltd. Published Bi-Weekly In case of errors in an ad, advertisers must notify publisher in writing within 10 days of publication. Rebate will be given in space credit and is limited to the amount of space occupied by the error. We cannot be responsible for the return of unsolicited material.
Via Pixabay
Ho H o,, H Hoo,, H Hu unnttiinnggtt oonn:: IItt ''s s AA ''H Hoolliiddaayy SSppeeccttaaccuullaarr ''
Publisher Richard Branciforte
Good Times (ISSN 0191-4995) is published bi-weekly Good Times Magazine Ltd.
Note: Some photos used are to illustrate activites at events, and do not depict the actual events or venues themselves.
Serene Scenery: The Garvies Point Museum & Preserve Check it out before the snows come: The Garvies Point Museum & Preserve in Glen Cove is open for scene strolls and a glimpse at history. The preserve consists of 62 acres of glacial moraine covered by forests, thickets, and meadows. There are about five miles of nature trails including trails for the visually impaired. Wooded areas, which exhibit various stages of succession, contain more than 60 species of trees. There's more to enjoy in the museum and gift shop; get all the information at (516) 571-8010 (or 8011).
Helena Smith
AAxe For Some Fun: A Unique Sport In Mineola
Next Publication Date:
January 19, 2020 Good Times Magazine IS NOW AVAILABLE In A Digital Version For Your PC, Phone, iPad, or Tablet! Log on to:
issuu.com/goodtimesmag Now You Can Read Us Everywhere!
Cover Photos: Ariana Grande by Dave Meyers courtesy Republic Records; Wonder Woman 1984 courtesy HBO Max; J&R’s Steak House by Sandy Branciforte Bastian Riccardi/Pexels
It's safe, it's fun, and it's the tonic to lose those holiday blues: Axe Kicking Entertainment at 360 Jericho Turnpike in Mineola offers unique activities that are really a slice of fun (sorry, we just had to). Take part in axe throwing, which is safer than it sounds as teams vie to see who can be the most accurate; “football bowling,” where you can knock down bowling pins from just 33 feet away; “Sticket archery,” which is like the traditional sport but safer; “plate smashing,” where you can throw baseballs in order to, well, smash plates; and more. Learn all about it and and make bookings at (516) 2806040. Note: All experiences are private.
Good Times Magazine • December 15, 2020 - January 18, 2021 • 3
‘Wonderful At Home’: Celebrate the holidays with Broadway and cabaret stars as part of the “Live From Adelphi Concert Series” with “The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year” on December 20 at 5 pm online. This family-themed holiday musical event will be performed live on the Westermann Stage of the Adelphi PAC Concert Hall. Get the comlplete info at (800) ADELPHI.
Drive-In Dreams: Bellport’s Gateway Playhouse is continuing its unique “Drive-In Movie” series through December; advance tickets are on sale; call (631) 286-1133 for more info. Coming up: Elf and A Bad Moms Christmas (both on December 18 at different show times); How The Grinch Stole Christmas and Bad Santa (December 19); and It’s A Wonderful Life (pictured right, December 20).
Hot & Rich: Garvies Point Museum & Preserve presents a special learning event entitled “Cocoa & Crafts,” which will take place December 29 through December 31 in Glen Cove; get the full cup (get it?) by calling (516) 571-8010. Each day features a different craft inspired by nature, in addition to complimentary hot cocoa and short films about nature and animals.
Photos: LI Biennial courtesy Heckscher Museum; A Charlie Brown Christmas courtesy PBS; Christmas House courtesy Christmas House of Long Island; Explorium Express courtesy Long Island Explorium; Marine Bear courtesy Toys For Tots
All Aboard The ‘Explorium Express’: The popular Long Island Explorium in Port Jefferson Harbor currently features its “Explorium Express,” offered to children and families through January 3. Book an exclusive 40-minute time slot for an all-inclusive immersive and educational experience; kids can go home with a "goodie bag" to continue the fun. Reservations are required (complete with safety requirements); for full information, call (631) 631-331-3277.
Lace ’Em Up: Ice skating is a safe, socially distanced way to enjoy the winter outdoors – and here’s places where you can go: Syosset-Woodbury Community Park (call (516) 677-5990), the Tanger ice rink in Deer Park (call (631) 940-9750), Christopher Morley Park in Roslyn (call (516) 571-8113), and Mitchell Park Ice Rink in Greenport (call the Village at (631) 477-0248).
A House Like No Other: The official Christmas House Of Long Island is a major attraction in Riverhead – and it ranks as an indoor, one of a kind, fully immersive Christmas experience. Enjoy a walk-through of all Things To Enjoy things Christmas, followed by a gift During This Decidedly Different Holiday Season shop and sweets wonderland. Learn all about it at (631) 591-0455. Be There For The Biennial: The Heckscher Museum of Art in Huntington continues its annual special event, The Long Island Biennial, now through January 10; get all the info at (631) 380-3230. This juried art exhibition features the work of contemporary artists from both Suffolk and Nassau Counties. A number of other special events, both in-person and virtual, are now being offered in conjunction with The Long Island Biennial, now celebrating its 10th year.
Find That ‘Blockhead’: For decades, the classic 1965 animated TV special “A Charlie Brown Christmas” had been regularly broadcast on CBS – but this year, it returns on December 13, this time on PBS and PBS Kids. However, the special can also be found on the streaming network Apple+, where the first showing was December 4; additionally, the Peanuts special will be available to watch from that point on through the holidays.
The Gift Of Life: Give the ultimate holiday gift – much-needed blood donations – at a New York Blood Center Blood Drive on December 28 at Good Samaritan Hospital in West Islip. Reservations can be made online; for complete information, call (800) 933-2566. More NYBC drives will be December 23 at area AMF bowling centers; call for additional dates and locations.
4 • Good Times Magazine - December 15, 2020 - January 18, 2021
Like A Visit From Santa Himself: Thankfully, Toys For Tots continues on, with drop boxes featured at retail stores and other establishments. For information on this year’s Toys For Tots – once again, there are regulations due to the pandemic – call (516) 228-3695; this year’s area coordinator is Gunnery Sergeant John Sardine.
BOUNTIFUL GOURMET: J&R’s Steak House I've been a big fan of J&R's Steak House for many years, having visited just about every location, including a few that are no more. J&R's has always been known for its family ambiance. The place welcomes children, but is also a great hangout for the cowboys amongst us. The extensive menu is filled with many treats, including meats, seafoods and appetizers. No matter what we order, we're always sure to order the J&R Signature Onion Straws as an appetizer, served with delicious dipping sauces. This is a monster portion and is not for the faint of heart. Also highly recommended are the boneless wings, as well as their mac and cheese. Salads also are huge; the California Cobb with mixed greens, avocado, egg, tomato, bacon, cheddar cheese, carrot, and cucumber is a standout. You can add chicken or shrimp for only a couple of dollars more. The burgers, pulled pork, and chicken sandwiches are excellent, and all are offered at a reasonable price. Burgers and handhelds are served with fries, onion straws, lettuce, tomato, red onion, coleslaw, and pickle. The burgers are made with eight-ounce Black Angus steak. However, let's be honest: This is stuff for the young'uns – we are here for J&R's famous marinated steaks. You can have your choice of Ribeye, Cowboy Steak (bone-in Ribeye), Porterhouse, Filet Mignon, Strip Steak, or
By Rich Branciforte
choice Skirt Steak. We usually opt for the 24-ounce double cut ribeye – but here's the problem: We also love Prime Rib, and J&R's is very respectable. You also have your choice of eight-ounce, 12-ounce, 16-ounce, and 24ounce. The pounder is a good buy, and if you order it medium-rare, you won't be disappointed. It is served with salad and potato. J&R's is also known for its early dining each Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 pm, with great prices on a dozen or more entrees which come with soup or salad, dessert, and coffee or tea. J&R's lunch menu is an even better deal, with super specials from 11 am to 3 pm. The restaurant also features a dozen bottled beers as well as some interesting specialty drafts, such as Hofbrau Hefe-Weizen. One item that has gone the way of the buffalo is their 72-ounce steak challenge. They used to have a wall filled with pictures of hungry carnivores who devoured the entire steak in the time limit. I did try it once, but to be honest, after 48 ounces or so, the meat loses its taste. J&R's recently changed ownership; there is currently three in the group, with an outlier in Islip. The others are in Calverton, Medford and Rocky Point. Rocky Point is our favorite because it is right off the golf course, although Calverton is excellent if you are going to Splish Splash. Here's a shout-out to our recent waitress in Rocky Point, Nicole G, who was fantastic. Knowledgeable about all the menu items, she also was efficient and kept checking back to see what we needed. Long Island has no shortage of good steakhouses, but it would be difficult to beat J&R's based on food quality and especially price. You can reach J&R's Steak House in Rocky Point at (631) 744-2101, Calverton at (631) 727-7218, and Medford at (63) 475-3839.
Photos by Sandy Branciforte
Good Times Magazine – December 15, 2020 - January 18, 2021 • 5
DINING DEALS We became quite excited when we learned that the 15,000-foot Long Island Welcome Center at Exit 51 on the Long Island Expressway includes a Taste NY Market, showcasing food items from throughout the state. This was an idea we had 25 years ago, and it's great to see that someone has brought it to fruition. Available to pick up are soups, salads, sandwiches, and desserts made from Long Island growers and culinary shops. This is a great opportunity to taste foods from throughout New York State, perhaps leading to trips to those areas. Some interesting items include 718 Heat, a hot sauce from Long Island City; August Crush Corporation, which produces a Brooklyn-based lemonade; Backyard Brine, with pickles; Catskill Mountain Sugarhouse,
AG A Guu ii ddee TT oo TT hh ee BBee ss tt SS ppee cc ii aa ll ss AA tt AA rr ee aa RR ee sstt aa uu rr aa nn tt ss
Cassariano Italian Eatery
with organic maple syrup; Hahn's Old Fashioned Cake Company (great crumb cakes); Holy Schmitt’s Farm from Riverhead, with outstanding horseradish; Little Porky's Marinade of Ronkonkoma, with marinades and dry rubs; Steiner’s Coffee Cake of Glen Head; and much more. For more info, check out Taste.NY.gov. Cassariano Italian Eatery in Mineola has a fine selection of dining options. Wine Down Tuesday has half-price bottles of wine. The Wednesday Ladies Night features happy hour prices at the bar and tables, and offers
The Cajun Crab Shack
great lunch prices. Cassariano is at 348 East Jericho Turnpike in Mineola; call them at (516) 2808990. The Cajun Crab Shack is going full blast with daily lunch
6 • Good Times Magazine • December 15, 2020 - January 18, 2021
specials. Here's a New Orleans experience right in Long Island: Daily specials include a onepound snow crab leg, half-pound shrimp, one corn and two potatoes or half-pound snow crab leg,
By B y R Ri ic ch h B Br ra an nc ci if fo or rt te e
Mim’s
one lobster tail, half-pound shrimp, one corn, and two potatoes for $35. Cajun Crab Shack is located at 230 Jericho Turnpike, Floral Park. (516) 519-8821. Spuntino in Williston Park has become a regular favorite of ours. Monday and Tuesdays are Pasta night, with your choice of nearly 30 pastas, and we're talking big portions. Appetizers are excellent, and don't miss the garlic knots, the best we ever tasted. They do know what garlic
Bobbique
means. The other Spuntino are in Dix Hills and St. James, offering super deals for holiday catering. Call (516) 248-8200 for information or to reserve a table. You won't be disappointed. Mim's in Roslyn is offering a great deal on a Hanukkah Family Dinner through December 17. It includes baby field green and quinoa salad, Rosemary Garlic Roasted Chicken, Slow Roasted Brisket, Potato Latkes or Mashed Potatoes, Brussels Sprouts or Honey Roasted Carrots,
Powdered Jelly Doughnuts and Chocolate Chunk Brownies. All for only $185 plus 15 percent service; it feeds four. Mim’s is at 235 Roslyn Road in Roslyn Heights; (516) 625-7305. Bobbique in Patchogue, known for its barbecue and bourbon since 2006, has added an interesting item to the menu: The new Smoked Chicken Pot
Pie Bread Bowl looks awesome. It’s a nice complement to their ribs, brisket, and fried chicken and waffles. For lunch, you might want to try a bowl of homemade chili loaded with cheddar, sour cream, and onions. Bobbique is located at 70 West Main Street in Patchogue. Call (516) 447-7744 to check on other specials.
Good Times Magazine • December 15, 2020 - January 18, 2021 • 7
Photo: © Dave Meyers
Late October brought on the beginning of the holiday music buying season – and from the moment it was annouced, multi-platinum superstar Ariana Grande's new album, Position, was destined to be #1 on the Billboard 200 from the day it was released, marking the fifth time the singer has gone to the pinnacle of that chart – in fact, she is the only artist in history to debut at #1 in that fashion. The album was a smash even before it was released, and remained high in the Top 10 as we went to press. The new effort is being buoyed by smash singles such as the title track and “34 & 35,” which sent fans scurrying to lyric sites to check out what the quite provocative “adult” lyrics of the song really were. Let's put it this way: “34 & 35” is clearly the 27-year-old pop star's most, shall we say, provacative and mature work to date. It all is working extremely well: In 2020, she's scored #1 singles with "Positions," "Stuck With U," and "Rain On Me (featuring Lady Gaga).” On November 18, it was revealed that Grande is the first woman to surpass 64 million monthly listeners in Spotify history.
8 • Good Times Magazine - December 15, 2020 - January 18, 2021
Ariana Grande Her ‘Positions’ Are Always #1
LI BITES
Quick, Fun Eating Througout The Area
George Thorogood: Still Bringin’ It With ’82 Live Set
Via PRNewswire
A Wow From Wendy's: Our staffers have been raving about this, so we're passing the word along: In March, Wendy's® launched an all-new breakfast menu, and our rather gluttonous team here could not be more impressed with the new morning options. From fresh, hand-cracked eggs on every sandwich to Applewood smoked bacon, Wendy's breakfast menu brings a fresh twist to familiar flavors and pays homage to Wendy's fan favorites – featuring the Breakfast Baconator, Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit, and Frosty®ccino. "People deserve a delicious, affordable and higher quality breakfast than what they're currently getting, so that's exactly what we're going to serve when Wendy's launches breakfast nationally," said Kurt Kane, President, U.S. and Chief Commercial Officer of The Wendy's Company, at the time of the launch. To find a restaurant near you that is currently serving breakfast, visit order.wendys.com/location. Here's something for these pandemic-scarred times: Many Wendy's locations now offer delivery to your door, through such popular services as DoorDash, Grubhub, Uber Eats, and Postmates. Log on to Wendys.com for the full scoop. Area locations include Garden City (including an indoor spot at Roosevelt Field), East Meadow, Jericho, Hicksville, Levittown, Williston Park, West Hempstead, Syosset, Wantagh, Greenvale, Commack, Farmingdale, Franklin Square, Merrick, Baldwin, Seaford, Floral Park, Lynbrook, Glen Cove, East Rockaway, Valley Stream, and more. Text or call (888) 624-8140. Hey, Shrimpy: It's nice to see the opening of new restaurant locations during these times – and locals have been giving us tips about the new Shrimpy's Burrito Bar in South Huntington (call (631) 3125588), which now joins its popular Massapequa Park setting (they're at (516) 797-3299). While these restaurants have ShrimpysBurritoBar.com a definite California feel to the décor and vibe, they are owned by Long Islanders and offer exceptional takeout and delivery service – as well as quite a varied menu. There are, of course, burritos (some with with Long Island-themed names such as “The South Shore Burrito,” which features fresh ingredients including seasoned rice, black beans, jalapeno pico de gallo, sautéed peppers and onions, monterey jack and cheddar cheese, and avocado poblano ranch with your choice of chicken, ground beef, marinated steak, or, of course, shrimp). The flavors are quite unlike anything else our spies have tried; other favorites of our curious testers includes shrimp skewers, The Shrimpy Taco, the shrimp quesadilla, and the host of plentiful sides, salads, and one-of-a-kind menu items. In short: It's Shrimpy's, but the portions certainly aren't. Our take: It feels good to enjoy fast food that tastes like fine dining, and it all does the area ecomomy some good as well. Takeout and delivery are available, of course; call for all the information.
Craft Recordings
Due to production delays affecting the music industry, Craft Recordings announced that the new reissue of George Thorogood & The Destroyers’ Live in Boston: 1982 will now be available worldwide on December 18 (as a four-LP set on 180-gram vinyl, a two-CD set, and across digital platforms). In addition, the special deluxe edition (pressed on four red-marbled vinyl, including an eye-catching poster, limited to 1,800 units) was being released as a Record Store Day exclusive, available in those shops on December 11. Check area independent record shops for availability in Long Island.
Good Times Magazine • December 15, 2020 - January 18, 2021 • 9
SPORTS BEAT
Wi W it th h L Ll lo oy yd d C Ca ar rr ro ol ll l
Less than a week after Kamala Harris became the first woman to be elected Vice President of the United Kim Ng States, Kim Ng broke a baseball glass ceiling when The Miami Marlins named her as the team’s new general manager. She is richly deserving of this position, as she served as an assistant GM for both The New York Yankees and The Los Angeles Dodgers. Derek Jeter, the Marlins’ CEO, knew Ng from his days playing shortstop in The Bronx. Miami Marlins Ng, whose family moved quite a bit baseman Robinson Cano. The trade was when she was growing up, gained a love of panned by most when it was announced, and baseball while playing stickball in her Fresh things have gotten worse since. Meadows schoolyard while attending Diaz was atrocious in 2019, but improved elementary school. to serviceable this past shortened summer New York Mets fans probably wish that season. Cano got off to a slow start in 2020, their team had named Ng their team’s but managed to improve significantly as the general manager two years ago instead of season went on, as he finished with 10 home Brodie Van Wagenen, who clearly seemed runs and a .316 batting average. The good unprepared for the job. The skills of being a vibe didn’t last: Cano’s good will with many big-time player agent did not transfer to fans pretty much ended last month, when successfully being a GM. Van Wagenen’s Major League Baseball announced Cano had first impact move was moving the Mets' top tested positive for the second time for perdraft choice of 2018, outfielder Jarred formance enhancing drug usage, and would Kelenic, to The Seattle Mariners in exchange be suspended for the entire 2021 season. My for relief pitcher Edwin Diaz and second
BOWLING
Well-Earned Plaudits: As the 2020/2021 league bowling season inches along – most centers around the country never really know what will happen from week to week as they all struggle to stay open, for the most part – one thing has become abundantly clear: Rolling a 300 game this season is quite the PBA accomplishment, indeed. As all bowlers are now wearing face masks in the midst of competition, it's more than a bit more difficult than it used to be. Here's a tip of the cap to the area bowlers who have rolled perfect games thus far this season; these Ray recent scores were the Edwards ones available to us at press time (if you have honor scores you’d like to see in print concerning your bowling center or your team, simply write to us at goodtimes. magazine@gmail.com): AMF Babylon Lanes: Rich Ambruster, November 13 AMF Commack Lanes: Brendan Oakley and Lou Piscopo, November 19 AMF East Meadow Lanes: Gary Shultis, November 19 Dani's Strike Zone: Michael Peters, November 18 Farmingdale Lanes: Mike Fradera, November 18 Port Jeff Bowl: Ray Edwards (above), November 16; Bob Hubbard, November 13;
guess is that at age 37, Cano needs a little help from his pharmaceutical friends to stay productive. Van Wagenen’s other bone-headed decision was to offer a one-year $18.9 million contract to starting pitcher (and Medford native) Marcus Stroman to deter him from being a free agent. Stroman opted out of the 2020 season because of COVID-19 concerns. He was no great shakes in his 11 starts as a Met after being acquired at the July 31, 2019 trade deadline from the Toronto Blue Jays in a deal which included pitching prospect and Edwin Ward Melville Diaz High School alum Anthony Kay. In an era when nearly all businesses are negatively impacted by the coronavirus, it’s clear Stroman did not have much leverage. D. Benjamin Miller He had the chutzpah to publicly state he agreed to return to the Mets because of the arrival of new owner Steve Cohen.
From PBA Legends To Local Lanes Joe Simon, November 12 South Levittown Lanes: Brian Ziesig, November 12 The World's Best Vie For Awards: In what was one of the most challenging and unprecedented years in the Kyle history of the PBA, the Tour’s Troup bowlers showed PBA up to compete on and off the lanes. For 2020, these stars will be honored in three categories – Chris Schenkel PBA Player of the Year, Steve Nagy Sportsmanship Award, and the Tony Reyes Community Service Award, all of which will be announced on December 18. Player of the Year nominees consist of the top eight earners in the 2020 season. Candidates in alphabetical order: Jason Belmonte, Bill O’Neill, Kris Prather, Sean Rash, Anthony Simonsen, Jesper Svensson, E.J. Tackett, and Kyle Troup. To find out where to see the award winners being named, keep your eyes on pba.com. The LIGBT Is Back: The Long Island Generations Bowling Tour (LIGBT) returned to action on November 15, crowning three champions following its four-game Mini-Maration at AMF Syosset Lanes. The 49 and under handicap champion was youth bowler Timothy Smith Jr. of West Islip, who
10 • Good Times Magazine • December 15, 2020 - January 18, 2021
won $1,000 in scholarship money with a 1,025 series. Finishing second and earning $500 was Sean Nicholson of Levittown, with a 990. The 50 & over senior champ was Dexter Wharton of Far Rockaway, who earned the $1,000 top prize with a 978 series. More Ray Edwards: the outstanding Middle Island bowler won the four-game scratch block with a score of 950, taking home $600 for his stellar effort. December 6 brought LIGBT action to AMF Wantagh Lanes as Frankie Sanchez, Calvin Nottingham, and Scott Timmy Smith Kampf were & Dexter Wharton crowned champions at a sold-out LIGBT MiniMarathon. Next up for the LIGBT will be the annual New Year’s Day Five-Game Maraton at AMF East Meadow; we’d advise registering early LIGBT for what’s sure to be another popular event. To get the full results of this tournament and to learn more about participating in future LIGBT events – more are on the scedule, in both the regular LIGBT and its new seniors division – call (702) 530-0708.
SPORTS BEAT
It’s no wonder Cohen and team president Sandy Alderson, who returned from exile in light of the departure of Mets chief operating officer Jeff Wilpon to become team president, fired Van Wagenen less than two hours after the sale of the Mets became official. It was akin to Michael Corleone settling family business at the end of The Godfather. Alderson announced that Luis Rojas will return as Mets manager in 2021, even before the team had a new general manager in place. I asked Alderson during his Zoom press conference whether he had any trepidation about a potential “shotgun marriage” where a GM has to live with a field manager he didn’t hire: “I’m not worried about that becoming an issue, since every candidate with whom we spoke wants Luis Rojas to be the Mets’ manager.” My guess is all of the GM candidates knew exactly what Alderson wanted to hear before the interview began. Longtime WFAN air personality Joe Benigno had for years talked about hanging up his microphone, and last month he finally followed through with his retirement. I have met Benigno many times over the years, and I can attest the way he is on the air is exactly the way he is off of it: He really is like a little kid who lives and dies with his teams. My
Joe Benigno
Photo © Entercom
favorite Bengino story was the time the WFAN promotions director invited me to visit the radio’s station’s former studios in Astoria. Benigno was on the air at that time, and when he saw me he screamed out: “You know that ‘Signs of the Apocalypse' section
in Sports Illustrated? We are experiencing that now! Lloyd Carroll is in the studio!” Thanks for the literal and figurative shout-outs over the years, Joe. I’ll miss you. Good job by Brooklyn Nets general manager Sean Marks to re-sign sharpshooting guard Joe Harris to a four-year contract. Harris is not a flashy player and doesn’t get the buzz that Kyrie Irving or Kevin Durant do, but he is a leader, and in addition is always accessible to the media. The New York Post’s sports media columnist Andrew Marchand reported that Jim Nantz, the face of CBS Sports, is seeking a big pay raise. His agent, Sandy Montag, reportedly wants Nantz to get the $17 million per year his NFL sidekick analyst, Tony Romo, gets but I think Montag will settle for parity with Fox Sports’ Joe Buck. It’s the end of an era as Mark Calaway, better known as WWE's The Undertaker, announced his retirement at last month’s “Survivor Series” pay-per-view event. Calaway’s heel Undertaker character quickly became a fan favorite. He is sure to be enshrined in the WWE Hall of Fame quite soon.
Good Times Magazine • December 15, 2020 - January 18, 2021 • 11
STREAM TEAM
VV iirr tt uu aa ll & & SS tt rr ee aa m m iinn gg C oo nn cc ee rr tt ss –– LL iivv ee FF oo rr You C
A Streaming Dream: Photo: Sessions Michael Sessions has Franti announced a $75,000,000 marketing fund for musicians to promote and build audiences through its live streaming platform. Co-founded by digital music pioneer and Pandora founder Tim Westergren and virtual game entrepreneur Gordon Su, Sessions ranks as the only platform that is making a direct investment in audience development. The rapidly growing service combines the power of live performance with the most sophisticated techniques of advanced virtual gaming to create a platform where artists are building real Atlantic audiences and earning substantial Ally Records and steady income. Brooke It appears to be working: Artists from across the more than 200 countries where Sessions is live are cultivating audiences and earning money at unprecedented rates. From Mexico, Portugal and Romania, to Kenya, India and Australia, amateur musicians are making as much as $700 per hour-long show, while working musicians are earning upwards of $20,000 for a single performance. Global chart topping duo Icona Pop, plus singer/songwriter (and newly minted author) Ally Brooke, R&B pop artist Jake Miller, alt/singer songwriter Matthew Goode, plus singer/songwriters Lee Brice, James Lee, and K-pop star Eric Nam are just a handful of the thousands of artists who have leveraged the marketing prowess of Sessions. Established artists are also coming aboard, with the likes of country artist Hank Williams Jr., Barenaked Ladies (their upcoming holiday streaming concert is December 18), EnVogue, Xzibit, and multi-platinum-selling country artist Scotty McCreery performing in the coming weeks. Sessions now ranks as the only platform that provides all of the necessary components for musicians: live streaming infrastructure, audience development, fan engagement mechanics, and direct monetization. Check out the site at SessionsLive.com. Hey, Oldies – Oldies!: AARP New York’s Couch Concert Series has offered a new series of streaming events, recently featuring such legends as Bret Michaels, Neil Sedaka, and Judy Collins – and the shows return on Thursday, December 17 with a live performance from R&B legends The O’Jays. The intimate show will be followed by a Q&A session with the Rock 'n Roll Hall Of Famers, where viewers can log in and ask questions. AARP members can register for this special event at local.aarp.org.
The O’Jays
The O’Jays
12 • Good Times Magazine • December 15, 2020 - January 18, 2021
Calendar
Your Guide To Local Events
Photo By Kevin Mazur
Photo Courtesy Jazz Loft
We were planning to run our regular Music Calendar this issue, but due to State regulations that clubs cannot mention names of performers, we are going on the side of caution and holding off for now. Instead, we have compiled an interesting mashup of radio and television shows, live streams and events that you may find of interest. Gold Dust Woman
December 15 Fools Mass on Demand Tickets at dziecitheatre.org December 15 - 7:30pm Dave Brubeck Celebration with Bill Charlap and Kenny Washington Jazz Standard on Facebook. December 15 On Demand All Star Jazz Loft Holiday Gala featuring jazz, bluegrass and opera performers and more. Info thejazzloft.org December 15 On Demand Symphonic Pops of Long island Virtual Concert symphonicpopsli.com December 17 - 8pm That Motown Band Holiday Show Streamed live from Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Centre. Whbpac.org December 17 - 8pm Norm Lewis In Concert Bay Street Theater Info: baystreet.org December 18 - 8pm Death metal band Withered freshtix. Com/events/ earllivestream2
BudDY Merriam
That Motown band
December 19 - 7:30pm Popa Chubby My Fathers Place Tickets at mfp.veeps.com December 20 - 5:30pm Bruce Arnold and the Mark Wade Trio from Flushing Town Hall Streaming on Youtube flushingtownhall.org/donate December 26 - 7:30pm Fleetwood Macked My Father's Place Tickets at mfp.veeps.com January 9 - 7:30pm Draw The Line My Father Place Tickets at mfp.veeps. com January 9 - 8pm Gold Dust Woman 8 piece band endorsed by Stevie Nicks Friend Entertainment USA Tickets at virtualtributeconcerts.com
If you have an event you would like featured from January 18th - February 14th, email it to gtmag@optonline.net and put “Music Calendar” in subject.
December 18 - noon MSG Uncovered The Shacks Tune in to Madison Sq. Garden on Facebook, Youtube and Instagram December 18 - 8pm Trans Siberian Orchestra Christmas Eve and other stories. Order at tsolivestream.com December 19 - 7pm PSTJoyous Wolf Live at the Whiskey A Go Go On Facebook live December 19 - 7pm CST Asleep At The Wheel Christmas Concert livestream.asleepatthewheel.com/event
Good Times Magazine - December 15, 2020 - January 18, 2021 • 13
COMEDY
JAZZ & BLUES
Gateway To New Year's: At press time, Bellport's Gateway Comedy had scheduled a pair of New Year's Eve performances – at 7:15 and 10 pm – to be presented at Governor's 'Lil Room at Governor's Comedy Club in Levittown. For complete info and to find out who’s going to be rocking the mic, call (516) 731-3358 (call ahead in advance for possible schedule changes). Canadian Kooks: Coming soon to Apple+ (pre-orders are available now): The Gravitas Ventures release in the United States and the Mongrel Media release in Canada of the lighthearted Canadian comedy film Boys vs. Girls. This wholly Canadian-crafted film, directed by Mike Stasko (The Bird Men), harkens back to 1980s and 1990s camp teen comedies. The new film stars comedy icons Colin Mochrie (“Whose Line is it Anyway?”), Kevin McDonald (“The Kids in the Hall)”, Eric Osborne (Degrassi), Rachel Dagenais (The Birder), and Jesse Camacho (Netflix’s “Locke & Key”). The story in the film is loosely inspired by writer/director Stasko’s experiences going to camp as a child at YMCA Camp Kitchikewana in Northern Ontario. Set in 1990, a summer camp is forced to go co-ed for the first time for financial reasons. The counsellors don’t like the change, and a battle of the sexes ensues. Boys vs. Girls recently swept the film festival circuit, including The Chicago Comedy Film Festival (Best Feature Film & Audience Choice), WorldFest Houston Film Festival (Best Comedy Feature Film), Canadian International Comedy Film Festival (Best Canadian Feature), Central Michigan International Film Festival, Hollywood
This comedy column is now comprised of 70 percent isopropyl alcohol for your safety.
David Lee Black
Duke Robillard
Duke Bashes The Blues: Blues Bash is the latest Stony Plain album from two-time Grammy nominee and multiple Blues Music Award-winning guitarist Duke Robillard, who declares the album to be “packed with plenty of bright sounding Fender guitar a la Ike Turner, Lefty Bates, etcetera. Just a good listening or dancing record like the blues records I bought when I was a kid. It was pretty much a reunion of sorts, and I wanted the material to be simple, straight-ahead ’50s style blues and R&B. Basically it’s a blues party album, and that feeling is what I wanted to convey.” Early reviews of the new disc have been over-the-top, as you can see from this one by Chris Wheatley in Rock and Blues Muse: “The new album from legendary guitarist and songwriter Duke Robillard is as honest a record as you could ask for. Blues Bash with Duke Robillard & Friends makes a virtue of its simplicity…. Straight-ahead '50s style blues and R&B, a compilation of classic tracks from that era. For any blues/roots fan, Blues Bash with Duke Robillard & Friends is something to treasure, a journey into another world that will carry you effortlessly across an ocean of soulful sounds.” Robillard, during the past three decades, has been a relentlessly touring bues artist and producer – and he has some area ties; among his production credits is the album Metropolitan Blue by the Queens-based vocalist Robert Charels, which featured performances by bassist Gerry Sorrentino (Savoy Brown) and Tom Manuel drummer Tony Coleman (B.B. King). Robillard is the founder of the nowlegendary blues big band Roomful Of Blues, and has peformed with legends from Bob Dylan to The Fabulous Thunderbirds, where he was a member of the The Jazz Loft (file photo) group for two years. Learn more about the new album at dukerobillard.com and stonyplainrecords.com. Lofty Holiday Ambitions: If you are struggling to get into the holiday spirit this season, look no further than The Jazz Loft, located 275 Christian Avenue in Stony Brook, where The Jazz Loft Equity Brass Band will be performing a free live outdoor concert as it presents “Operation Spirit: Holiday Style” on January 19 from 1 to 4 pm on the Loft's front lawn. The concert will adhere to all social distancing guidelines. The Jazz Loft's Equity Brass Band – Ray Anderson (sousaphone), Tom Manuel (cornet), Eric Kay (clarinet), Rod Borrie (trombone), Darrell Smith (drums), and Vinny Raniolo (banjo) – will play an array of holiday classics in New Orleans Jazz style. For more information, call The Jazz Loft at (631) 751-1895.
Cinematic Red PR
Boys vs. Girls Reel Independent Film Festival (Best Supporting Actor – Kevin McDonald), London International Filmmakers Festival, Florida Comedy Film Festival (Best Writer, Best Ensemble Cast, & Best Supporting Actor – Colin Mochrie), and Hamilton Film Festival, among others. Canadian filmmakers with an independent sensibility of can-do energy and sheer fun, this comedy was shot during just 16 days, utilizing a main location of The Kiwanis Sunshine Point Camp in Kingsville, Ontario. There was also a family tie for lead actress Rachel Dagenais, as her grandfather ran summer programs at The Sunshine Point Camp in the 1970s.
14 • Good Times Magazine • December 15, 2020 - January 18, 2021
MEDIA
Yes, Virginia, There ARE Movie Blockbusters In 2020: We will not hit
you with the now-hackneyed “...and then, everything changed” bromide that you've read in every news article since March – but, yes, it's been a slow year for the motion picture industry, as most theaters have been shut down (save only in the Wonder most poorly run states Woman in the union), forcing many film companies to 1984 postpone some of the biggest releases of the 2020. Case in point: The new and reportedly last Daniel Craig film as James Bond, No Time To Die, has been pushed back twice; first, it was moved from April to November; recently, it was announced that the movie will not be released until April 2, 2021 "in order to be seen by a worldwide theatrical audience," HBO Max/DC Comics said the film company on the movie's official website. “We understand the delay will be disappointing to our fans, but we now look forward to sharing No Time To Die next year.” Nevertheless, some film companies have been releasing films to both theaters and to streaming video, and many of them would have been big at the box office during normal times. Netflix offered Martin Scorsese's The Irishman earlier this year, and the MGM result was one of the biggest viewership tallies for a streaming film ever recorded. Now, more hits are coming (or are here), including: • Wonder Woman 1984, originally No scheduled for a June wide release, Time will now hit theaters on Christmas To Die Day – and will be offered on HBO Max beginning December 25. Fans have been clamoring for more of Gal Godot as the superhero – yet, there's a fly in the ointment: As of press time, HBO Max was still not available on the most popular home streaming device, Roku, forcing those viewers to watch the app on tablets or PCs or in other ways (unless they owned a compatible TV, such as some Samsung models). • The controversial second Borat film (we don't have space to print the full title) debuted last month on Amazon Prime, scoring yet another hit for Sacha Baron Cohen (yes, this is the one with the randy Rudy Giuliani scene). • Cohen continues unabated: His role as Abby Hoffman in the long-awaited The Trial Of The Chicago 7, from Aaron Sorkin, can now be seen on Nexflix. • Since summer, the film versionof the hit Broadway production of Hamilton has been available through the Disney+ streaming service. Many of us miss Sacha Baron sitting in a darkened theater Cohen enjoying films on a As Borat screen far bigger than life – but it seems certain that streaming hit films is now only necessary, but may become the preferred way to watch movies from this point forward. Only time will tell. – Cody Bell Amazon Prime
16 • Good Times Magazine • December 15, 2020 - January 18, 2021
TECHNOBEAT
By Richard Joseph Branciforte
your music palate is in. Check him out early; you know, so that way you can say you knew him before he was big. Now, we all know Excision as one of the purveyors of modern dubstep music. He’s been around the scene for a while and is highly respected. In 2017, he took it one step further and started his own heavy EDM music festival, Lost Lands, which was a huge success and continued to be for the following few years. Well, he’s Photo courtesy Nicole Davis done it again and has Welcome back, ladies and officially started his own record gentlemen to another round of label called Subsidia Records. TechnoBeat. With most events He initiated us into this world a still at a halt around the country, few months ago by releasing I’ll be taking the time in this over 120 new songs on the new column to tell you all about the label. Artists included well great new music and news known dubstep musicians as being released in the EDM well as up and coming artists. world. Big names such as Sullivan I wanna give some mention to King, Jantsen, Dion Timmer, an artist I recently found out PhaseOne, and Yookie could be about through a mutual friend seen alongside up and coming who is local to Austin, TX, and artists such as Whales, High brings some of those funky Zombie, and Sweet Teeth. One vibes to the EDM scene. of the great things about this is Vincent Antone has recently that it’s a way for artists to get signed with Mammoth Music their name out there in a highly Group out of Denver, and organized and direct manner to boasts a somewhat similar style the fans that love that type of to artists including Pretty Lights, music. I think it’s about time Manic Focus, SoDown, and Excision made a move like this Papadosio, blending the techand it makes total sense. The nology of EDM and production first three releases are known with live performance elements. as Subsidia Night: Vol 1, His 2020 has been jam packed Subsidia Dawn: Vol 1, and with numerous releases, to say Subsidia Dusk: Vol 1. Volume 2 the least. He’s released the of Night is coming out in the Horizons EP as well as No near future and some of the Turning Back. I’d compare the artists have already been style of these EPs (as well as teased such as Lev3l, Downlink, his other tracks) to that of a Excision, Kultivate, and Shoku. early-to-mid 2010s Griz/ Be on the lookout for that as I Gramatik. One can find hip hop would imagine it’s going to drop elements mixed in, often before the new year! wrapped around some funk LSDream always has the grooves, a bright horn section, freshest and wubbiest of beats or a sexy guitar riff. He’s got and now is no exception. I both the chill and the heavy wanted to give a special tracks to satiate whatever mood shoutout to him for his most LSDream
recent installation of the Rave Cave, which is now available on his YouTube channel, as well as throw some hype your way for his new single “Follow the Vibe” with Taylr Renee. The song is the epitome of a vibe with ethereal female vocals and spacey sounds that transport you to another realm, only to lead up to some bassy and chopped up drops, enveloping the listener in this world that LSDream has created within his mind. Check it out when you get a chance, and you won’t be disappointed. All right – thanks for tuning into this issue with me, folks.
Vincent Antone
Photo courtesy Wing Korgon
Feel free to reach out to me at richiegtechno@gmail.com. Until next time, keep raging, my friends!
Good Times Magazine • December 15, 2020 - January 18, 2021 • 17
WHEELS & DEALS With so many people forced to work or stay at home, there has been an explosion of the creative juices of late. We've received calls and emails about projects including new albums, books, video, and film. Here's a few personaalities that you’ll want to check out: Retirement obviously didn't suit our friend Luis Guerrero well (you'll remember him as the leader of Cool Hand Lou & The
Luis Guerrero
File photo courtesy Thunder Road
Downtown Daddy-Os and the Bruce Springsteen tribute Thunder Road). After announcing that he was going to relax and enjoy the waves hitting the sand in Rockaway, he's back with a bigger and more ambitious project: He's launched Hole In The
donSMITH Brings A-Game To The ‘Table’ With New Drop
“Table,” the new release from rapper donSMITH, is available now on Spotify, YouTube, Amazon, Apple Music, and major services. It’s from Don't Ask Me Where I'm From, his new full length. The 30-minute album is produced by Zoomo, a soul sampler buzzing amongst the underground and Peter Rosenberg’s weekly Hot 97 radio show. donSMITH is a 27-year-old Harlem-bred artist and storyteller who illustrates the harsh realities and triumphs of his black and brown culture. After releasing his first EP, the Harlem emcee performed throughout New York City, including The Knitting Factory, Bowery Electric, National Sawdust, and more venues. Find domSMITH on YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Apple, Soundcloud, Spotify, and his website: whoisdonsmith.com.
By B y R Ri ic ch h B Br ra an nc ci if fo or rt te e
Wall Records, which will be a record company, music publisher, and recording studio. The soon-to-open 24-track recording facility will host Lou's new group, Cool Hand Lou & The Boardwalk Saints, as the first band to record there. Lou can be reached at coolhandlou@live.com. The say you can't keep a good woman down, and local comic talent Talia Reese has a full plate for the holidays. She's currently doing a Chanukah-themed show with Stand Up NY, plus a Talia Christmas Eve Reese show. Add a show for Kwanzaa and she would have a hat trick. Reese is a seasoned standup comedian who performs regularly at comedy clubs and now on Zoom. She's been written about in The New York Post, The Times of Israel, and The Wall Street Journal. In addition, she is a published author, music composer, and former production assistant at NBC and ABC. You can find
more info about Talia Reese and her shows at @taliareesecomic or taliareese.com. This is a bit belated, but congratulations to Long Island DJ, mashup artist, and pro wrestler DJ Cummerbund, who has won a 2020 Webby Award. One of the judges was none other than Monica Lewinsky, who certainly knows her cummerbunds. Cummerbund had a big hit with his “Play That Funky Music Rammstein” several months back. More info: Check out webbyawards.com. Long Island native Micah Dank has been a busy lad. Not wanting Dan Brown to get all the glory, Dank has released his first thriller, Beneath The Veil: Into The Rabbit Hole, the kickoff to a six-book thriller series. Writing runs in the family: Dank’s father and grandfather were producers at CBS News in
Courtesy Rick Eberle PR
Jennifer Lopez/Twitter
Jennifer Lopez: Her ‘Morning’ Glory
On the promo photo for her new music, 51-year-old pop legend Jennifer Lopez manages to pull off what few others artists of any age could: Everything. The photo of the tastefully nude cover for her new single, “In The Morning,” just about broke Instagram and Twitter when it was first published there on November 25. “J-Lo's” new album is scheduled to hit stores soon, following the rush-release of the new single. At this moment, we're kind of sorry that Lopez and her husband, Alex Rodriguez, did not emerge successful in their bid to buy The New York Mets – think of the possible new team uniform designs.
18 • Good Times Magazine • December 15, 2020 - January 18, 2021
The Latest News On Hot Area Music & Entertainment Manhattan.
Neil Graham Richard Newsdon, Jacobson the
protagonist of Rabbit Hole, declares in the novel's opening pages: “I know the answer to the world's Photo: John Ryniski deepest secret.” Now you can, too. Get more info at nydaynk101@gmail.com. It's nice to know that homegrown is the order of the day. Nothing could be truer than that for Neil Richard Jacobson, born in Oceanside, who formed his first band in junior high school with his brother, John. They later moved to Manhattan, renamed the group Those Jacobson Brothers, and performed in various jazz clubs. Neil Jacobson later produced emerging rap artists Money Ray and Ron & Dante. In 1999, he formed a partnership with King Creole keyboardist Peter Schott, and
Mickey Dolez & Vic Kastel
session man and producer. Long Island's Bob Freville recently presented the world premiere of his new short film, Pig Lipstick. In this DIY short, Freville delves deep into the conundrum of Donald J. Trump in a deranged satire (what else?). Freville shot Pig Lipstick in and around Suffolk County for a whopping $5,000. Freville is the director of the Troma vampire melodrama Hemo, as well as the Berkeley TV cult classic “Of Bitches And Hounds”. Pig Lipstick is free to watch on Vimeo. Freville can be reached at intrepidaspirationsllc@gmail.com.
wrote jingles and and music for television. Neil continues to perform with his band, Area NYC. He has released three solo albums, and is another example of “Long Islander makes good.” Vic Kastel definitely gets around. In addition to having recently released his first album – 40 years in the making – he met up with Monkees legend Mickey Dolenz at Staten Island's St. George Theatre prior to the pandemic. Kastel's new album caps 50 years of being a Photo: disCompany
BOOK BEAT
Hidden History Of Music Row By Brian Allison, Elizabeth Elkins, and Vanessa Olivarez Price: $21.99 Paperback; published by Arcadia Publishing
Along Manhasset Bay By Vanessa Nastro and The Port Washington Public Library Price: $21.99 Paperback; published by Arcadia Publishing
Nashville’s Music Row is as complicated as the myths that surround it. And there are plenty, from an adulterous French fur trader to an adventurous antebellum widow, from the early Quonset hut recordings to record labels in glass high rise towers, and from “Your Cheatin’ Heart” to “Strawberry Wine.” This new book from Arcadia Publishing and The History Press tells the full story of the heart of Music City. Written by Elizabeth Elkins and Vanessa Olivarez, better known as the alt-country singer/songwriter duo Granville Automatic, as well as professional historian, museum consultant, and writer Brian Allison, Hidden History Of Music Row digs into the dreamers and the doers, the architects, and the madmen, the ghosts, and the hit-makers that made these avenues and alleys world-famous. Between its covers, readers will find never-before-seen photos of Willie Nelson, Patsy Cline, Kris Kristofferson, and Shel Silverstein, as well as interviews with multi-platinum songwriters and star performers – all painting a picture of Music Row’s gritty boom.
The waters of Manhasset Bay have long been an incubator for innovation and prosperity. While early baymen sought their livelihood through clam digging and fishing, a new industry by way of sand mining forever changed the bucolic hilltops that overlooked the bay. While the sand mining industry brought prosperity and notoriety, the industry’s use of heavy machinery and hydraulic pumps leveled the peninsula, once known for its lush grazing pastures. During the early 1900s, areas such as Port Washington, Manhasset, and Great Neck flourished into commuter, suburban towns. Shifting from a farming to a suburban community, homes began to develop along Manhasset Bay. Urbanization brought new housing and businesses such as hotels and lavish restaurants. This history is written by Vanessa Nastro, an archivist and special collections librarian at The Port Washington Public Library. She holds a master’s degree in library and information science from Queens College, with a certificate in archives and preservation of cultural materials. Her previous work involving photographic collections include the Aperture Foundation, Phillips Auctioneers, and Adelphi University.
Good Times Magazine • December 15, 2020 - January 18, 2021 • 19
Courtesy Rick Eberle PR
MUSICIANS WANTED DRUMMER WANTED for classic rock quartet. 50+. (631) 462-5987 (1298) SINGER/SONGWRITER looking for a lead guitarist and female lead singer to interpret and play my original songs. Hoping to record and play live. Michael (631) 475-2316. (1298) ORIGINAL GOSSIP band is looking for a bass player. All original music only. Log on to OriginalGossipBand.com. Check us out and contact Tania at: ionlyrocknroll@hotmail.com (1298) GUITARIST SEEKS Drummer for original duo performing rock, pop, and country music. Call Mark at (718) 757-9435 or write to siegtec@ icloud.com. (1299) WHO WANTS to jam? Guitarist/singer seeks all other instruments for fun jams. I know lots lots of jam band stuff and classic rock, too. Based in Huntington, I don’t mind driving to a convenient studio for all – give a call! Rob (516) 672-3957. (1310)
AA W Wii sstt ffuull W Waallkk D D oowwnn PPeenn nnyy L Laannee Wi W it th h J Je e ff ff L La ak ke e & & C Ce el ll lo op ph ha an ne e F Fl lo ow we er rs s
OPPORTUNITIES DO YOU currently sell products or have
“Penny Lane”, the new release from singer/songwriter Jeff Lake & Cellophane Flowers, is now available on Apple Music, Amazon, Spotify, and all music services (the CD version will be released in January). The group puts a new spin on the music of The Beatles by turning to classical music. The group replaces electric guitars with violins and cello for its core sound while adding traces of modern production, acoustic guitar, and Lake’s smooth vocal delivery. The tunes “Penny Lane,” “Within You Without You/Tomorrow Never Knows,” “Lucy In the Sky With Diamonds,” and more classics are included. The album is a fresh take on music written more 50 years ago. Visit cellophaneflowersmusic.com for the full story; you can hear the group right away via Spotify, Amazon Music, and Apple Music.
20 • Good Times Magazine • December 15, 2020 - January 18, 2021
connections with bars, clubs, restaurants? Introduce us to your connections and we we’ll pay you for what they buy. Our prices and service put you in a position to make extra money. Position is commission-based. Nassau County, Eastern Queens only. Contact: Nick@ Classic-Beverage.com. (1297)
We’re Seeking Individuals For Delivery Deliver Good Times Every Two Weeks To Clubs & Retail Stores $15/hr Plus Gas Delivery Experience & Reliable Car A Must
For More Information:
Contact Rich (516) 280-2100
DEMOLITION
Area Artists: Send CDs/EPs To Good Times Magazine, 584 Mineola Avenue, Suite 2, Carle Place NY 11514 or send audio files to goodtimes.magazine@gmail.com. Photos provided by the artists.
alongside some newer sounds like Green Day and My Chemical Romance, their versatile sound is equal parts familiar and fresh, and they've brought you tales of love, loss, liabilities, criminality, and blood suckers. Given their major love for music, film, cartoons, and comics, the style and demeanor of this band is next to none. So put your fangs in, your headphones on, and remember: Don't tell your parents.” This immaculately produced album offers great sound, high energy, bad language, and punk for days. The Songs: “DYTP,” “Backpack,” “Growing Pains,” “D.B. Cooper,” “Guillotine,” “RX Juliet,” “Do It Again,” “Stupid Shit,” “Lil Anarchy,” “Modern Day Vampire,” “Pistol And Empty Pockets,” “MPR.” To Learn More About The Artist: Get more information on these punk sensations at linktr.ee/knottieboys; find them on YouTube; and their Facebook page is as wild as they are.
Trietsch (piano). Every ukelele played and pictured on the album were handmade by Christopher Trietsch – who, based on the quality of this exceptional album debut, will be a musical force in this area and beyond for decades to come. The Songs: “Farfalla,” “Raspberry Robin, “Lovers' Waltz,” “Solace,” “Beginning Today,” “Off The Jetty,” “Starfall,” “Plum Puddle,” “Great South Bay,” “Adventures Of Chris,” “Forsythia,” “Afternoons With You.” To Learn More About The Artist: To purchase a signed copy of Beginning Today or inquire about owning a CTrietsch ukulele, write to christophertrietsch@gmail.com. Find Trietsch at christophertrietsch.hearnow.com, where you can stream his album; or connect Christopher Trietsch with his other social media and music Beginning Today accounts: Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, Independent Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Who: Chrisotpher Trietsch is a Long BandsInTown, Google Play, Shazam, Island-based musician who has been building and Pandora. his own ukuleles since 2010. He began songwriting seven years ago, inspired by the sights and sounds of his home in Long Island. His debut album, Beginning Today, features 12 original tracks that the artist recorded by The Knottie Boys layering the sounds of Modern Day Vampire three of his own handRock Island Records made ukuleles, accomWho: We'll let the group's Rock Island panied by bass, guitar, Management describe this unique band: “The and piano. Knottie Boys are an alternative punk band Trietsch is also an from the recesses of Long Island. The group aspiring luthier, crafting formed in 2017 when singer/songwriter/ his own brand of guitarist Dan and ukuleles under the bassist Nicky guidance of his father. were fresh out of His handmade high school, ukuleles are available inviting their old for sale, and he friend Tom to play accepts commissioned drums after a few projects as well. months of writing This new album – and experimentmixed, recorded, and ing. Following mastered by Fred that, the band Guarino at Tiki would play around four shows before inviting Recording Studios in their buddy Ryan, who had recently crash Glen Cove – features landed from a tropical island, to break accompaniment from several guitar strings. Jesse Torres (electric “With an influence rooted in classic punk guitar), Barry Waller from Sex Pistols, Black Flag, and The Misfits, (bass), and Rosemary
Motu Blues For The Beach Independent Who: One of the area's longest-lasting acts of any genre, Long Island's Motu – the stage name of the prolific blues musician Dr. Richard Michelson – returns with his 20th album release, which must rank as some sort of area record. Once again a jack of all trades (Motu wrote and arranged all the tunes here, as well as served as engineer and producer during the recording process at Long Island Sound Rehearsal Studio), the guitarist, mandolin player, and singer once again hits fans with his easy-to-listen-to blues styles and amiable countenance. The supporting cast is a familiar one by now: Dee Michelson, Rich Fry, Mark Loebl, Ed Monzel, and Rob Rush join Motu in a rootsy journey that's as comfortable as the lush seaside scene pictured on the CD jacket. The Songs: “Kentucky Bourbon Warms Me More Than You Do,” “Want To Be Your Man,” “Going Back Home,” “No Safe Solution,” “Got No Reason To Complain,” “Ain't Gonna Wait Around No More,” “Loose Change,” “Variations,” “What The Heart Wants,” “Blues For The Beach.” To Learn More About The Artist: Log on to motu.net. This new album is available everywhere music is sold or streamed, including Amazon.com and CD Baby. Check out Motu's songs on YouTube as well.
Good Times Magazine - December 15, 2020 - January 18, 2021 • 21
RHYTHM TRACKING
With Jimi LaLumia
Toyah – Oh, Boyah: Cherry Red Records UK has wasted no time since the company acquired the catalog of Safari Records UK. It has launched a series of expanded edition re-issues of the classic 1980s albums released by Toyah, starting with a breathtaking repackaging of her debut album, Sheep Farming In Barnet. This new edition boasts a remastered version of the original release, with bonus Cherry Records UK tracks, DVD extras, and a definitive booklet, which is state of the art and worth the price all by itself. Safari never bothered to get record deals for their artists in America, so Toyah is still a cult figure over here – but worldwide, she became a seminal icon of the new wave in England alongside Adam Ant at the dawn of the MTV era. I actually went out of my way to get two Toyah videos over to the-then brand-new MTV, as Roberta Cruger added "Thunder In The Mountains" and then "Rebel Run" into light rotation (just based on my efforts, with absolutely no support from Safari aside from them supplying the videos to me; I next had to pay, out of my own pocket, to transform to U.S. broadcast frequency standards). Since the label did nothing and Toyah did not Marc Bolan make her way over to America, nothing came of my efforts, which was based purely on being a Toyah fan. Yet, that fan light has now been reignited with her classic albums being re-issued in top grade style, though as import editions only. The Hall Of Fame Game – Finally Won: Longtime Rhythm Trackers know I've had a wish list of those artists who have been left out in File photo/ Public Domain the cold by The Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. The recent 2020 induction ceremony on HBO finally celebrated one of my listed faves, T.Rex. Marc Bolan, the main man of the band, was truly the godfather of early 1970s glam and glitter rock, and his long-overdue induction was a joy to behold. So now we move on to the next candidate on my list: Our very own New York Dolls, without whom punk as we know it probably would have never existed. Martin Scorcese is working on a documentary film about former Dolls frontman David Johansen, so perhaps that might kickstart the next overdue entry. We shall see.
Jimi LaLumia Publicity/PR
I made “Death To Disco”/Psychotic Frogs an international sensation, and work with worldwide icon Jayne County. I am available for consult on publicity/media angles for bands, actors, politics, and more. Facebook/lalumi-dia public relations
COLLECTIBLES
The Stuff You Always Save
Ban75 from Pixabay
Turnbuckle Treasures: With the retirement of WWE's The Undertaker after 30 years of wrestling (and doing macabre magic tricks in and out of the ring), we couldn't help but notice that secondary market prices on his autographed items such as promo photos as well as his wrestling figures shot up like crazy in the days following his November 22 farewell speech; that moment took place during WWE's Survivor Series pay-per-view event. Wrestling figures, replica championship bests, magazines, photos, mini-rings, and other toys and goods remain top sellers on that secondary collectibles market – and, shockingly, more full-grown adults seem to covet these ring-related goods than children do. Luckily, fans don't have to scour eBay and auction sites for such goods: There are plenty of places to buy wrestling-related souvenirs locally. Here are some specialty retailers who can come up with that special Undertaker or Cactus Jack merch you haven't been able to find: Scrooge Records is now offering a wealth of classic wrestling magazines, programs, and clips; call (516) 233-9916 … Medford's Classic Toy & Collectibles often offers autograph signings from top pro wrestling stars, and has a great collection of T-shirts and figures. Call them at (631) 317-2995 … The Wrestling Universe in Commack has scads of figures, photos, and other stuff, and also offers a host of live autograph signings for fans. Check them out at (718) 460-2777. So What's It Worth?: The 53rd edition of the popular Kovels' Antiques & Collectibles Price Guide by Terry Kovel and Kim Kovel is now available nationwide and online at Kovels.com. With more pictures, more marks, and more prices than any other price guide on the market, Kovels' Antiques & Collectibles Price Guide 2021 gives antiques enthusiasts the information they need to quickly identify and price finds, and to buy and sell more confidently. The just-released 2021 price guide includes more than 3,000 photos; 500 makers' marks, logos, and dates; and 11,500 all-new prices of antiques and collectibles in more than 700 categories sought-after by collectors, including Advertising, Furniture, Glass, Jewelry, Kitchen, Porcelain, Kovels.com Tiffany, Toys, Sewing, Tools, and more. Prices are from actual sales — no estimates— and are reviewed for accuracy. Kovels’ Antiques & Collectibles Price Guide 2021, as in past years, remains a valuable resource to help collectors make wise decisions and save money.
22 • Good Times Magazine - December 15, 2020 - January 18, 2021
BITS & PIECES Sony Music Entertainment
Maren Morris
Kelly Clarkson has released a cover of the Vance & The Valiants classic “All I Want For Christmas Is You.” The release marks the second holiday offering from Clarkson this year, following her new original Christmas duet, “Under The Mistletoe” with Brett Eldredge.
Pop/Country’s Queen Cleans Up At The CMAs Sony Music Nashville artists were big winners at the 54th annual CMA Awards, sweeping seven categories. The most-awarded star of the evening, Maren Morris, took home trophies for Female Vocalist of the Year as well as Single and Song of the Year for her three-times Platinum multi-format #1, “The Bones.” Morris performed a reimagined version of her record-setting smash during the awards show.
Weiss Eubanks
Tyler Shields
Sammi Rae: 'Nunca' Is What's Happening Now
Area Reggaeton singer Sammi Rae has had a big year gaining national notice – and has released a striking video for her new song, “Nunca.” The song has become well received on Spotify can be heard on SoundCloud; the new video can be viewed on YouTube. This past year, Sammi Rae found her voice in her genre with several releases alongside Los Vegas; their back-and-forth “call and answer” formula scored hit tracks in the current single “Closer,” "City Lights," the duo’s original collaboration “Escapate,” and the bouncing singles "Baby Baila" and "Ella Se Atreve." Find Sammi Rae on Instagram and Facebook.
Kelly Clarkson: Covering Up For Christmas
Charlotte Lawrence: Moving With 'Slow Motion' Singer/songwriter Charlotte Lawrence has released a stripped-back version of her latest single, “Slow Motion.” This new version of the song, composed and arranged by writer and producer Johan Lenox (Kanye West, Vic Mensa), is available now. The single’s artwork was created by one of Lawrence’s fans, Minori Shiba, and was hand-picked by Lawrence for use with the single. Born and raised in Los Angeles, the Atlantic Records artist ranks as a pop singer with a dark edge. She has already racked up millions of streams with the breakout songs “Just The Same” and “Sleep Talking,” two viral hits which perfectly capture her trojan horse approach to music.
Courtesy Rick Eberle Public Relations
Joey Domingue
Koe Wetzel: Indefinable – And On Fire
Genre-bending Koe Wetzel has released his third LP, Sellout, via Columbia Records. The album comes alongside an official video for new single “Cold & Alone,” that stars Wetzel as he experiences the mixed emotions that come with the demise of a relationship. Sellout also includes the previously released tracks “Good Die Young,” “Kuntry & Wistern,” and “Sundy or Mundy.” The Texas-born singer, songwriter, guitarist, and producer continues to trailblaze between grunge, country, Americana, and other styles on Sellout. From 2015 until signing with Columbia Records this summer, Koe quietly sold more than 200,000 units independently.
Good Times Magazine • December 15, 2020 - January 18, 2021 • 23
24 • Good Times Magazine • December 15, 2020 - January 18, 2021