Weekend - April 15, 2021 by repubnews

For the most up-to-date listing of events, go online to masslive.com/entertainment

Weekend

LIVEWIRE: Staind to drop first album in nearly a decade, E4 OFF THE MENU: 10% of restaurants permanently closed since pandemic began, E8 WINE PRESS: 3 outstanding Spanish red wines for under $8, E10

| THURSDAY, APRIL 15, 2021

Here comes the

bridal expo 31st annual event returns with more than 150 vendors, companies, planners, Page E2

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Armenian Food Festival returns with takeout, E5

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ON THE COVER

Here comes the

bridal expo 31st annual event returns with more than 150 vendors, companies, designers, planners

Bean Counter Bakery was among the vendors at the 2020 Springfield Wedding & Bridal Expo at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield. (STEVEN E. NANTON PHOTO)

By Keith O’Connor

Special to The Republican

he upcoming 31st annual Springfield Wedding & Bridal Expo will help an ailing wedding industry get back on track and offer brides-to-be help in planning their dream wedding.

The event will be held Saturday and Sunday in the Better Living Center on the grounds of the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield and features over 150 vendors, companies, designers and planners. Visitors stepping into the everything bridal event will find glamorous gowns, elegant formal wear, fashion shows, live music and entertainment, ice sculptures, colorful floral designs, and food samples from caterers and banquet facilities in the region. “Last year’s show was in January before COVID-19 became widespread and many brides-to-be had to change their wedding plans, which also impacted many of our vendors who lost business they had planned on for the year,” said Wesley Jenks, vice president of Jenks Productions, organizer of the event. “I think there has been a lot of pent-up demand from couples who want to get back to planning their weddings and from businesses who want to be a part of their plans,” he added about this year’s show. “If you haven’t even made one plan for your upcoming

IF YOU GO Event: Springfield Wedding & Bridal Expo When: Saturday and Sunday; morning sessions both days are from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and afternoon sessions are from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Where: Better Living Center on the grounds of The Big E, 1305 Memorial Ave, West Springfield Tickets: $10, available online or at the door More information: jenksproductions.com

wedding yet, you can leave the show with your whole special day planned. Our show is all encompassing and vendors will be selling everything you need from booking a venue to formal wear including tuxedos and wedding gowns, as well as music, photo booths, transportation from limousines to horse and carriage, and even classes to learn how to dance,” Jenks said. There will also be additional vendors for wedding shoes, bridal veils and hair accessories, as well as dresses for bridesmaids and mother of the bride, invitations, wed-

Bride and groom models walk the runway at the 30th annual Springfield Wedding & Bridal Expo at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield. The 31st annual event returns this weekend with over 150 vendors, companies, designers and planners. (STEVEN E. NANTON PHOTO)

ding cakes, gifts and favors, decorations and centerpieces, flowers, and photographers and videographers. “I think one of the biggest differences couples coming to the show this year will find is

that they will also be getting an education of what they can and can’t do given COVID and various state rules,” Jenks said. As some restrictions are now loosening up and “more

and more weddings are being booked,” Jenks said the show will offer options to those who want to get married this year, but find their favorite venue doesn’t have any dates

SEE EXPO, PAGE E3

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WEEKEND

Theater to stream this month

“If you haven’t even made one plan for your upcoming wedding yet, you can leave the show with your whole special day planned.”

By Elisabeth Vincentelli

Table settings from Michael’s Party Rentals at the 30th annual Springfield Wedding & Bridal Expo at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield. (STEVEN E. NANTON PHOTO)

CONTINUED FROM PAGE E2

available. “One of the nice things about our show is that we will have facilities at the show, some of them new, who still have dates open and who want to get their names out there,” Jenks said. Also, one lucky person will walk away with a grand prize package that includes a wedding gown from 125 Bridal & Tuxedo, boudoir photo packages from Shadley Studios, a tuxedo package for a groom

adaptation of “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,” looks back at Theater audiences have his connection to music and become more like movie fans family while growing up gay and television bingers: They in the 1970s and ’80s in Philacan settle in for a double bill. delphia. This new production is the first major one in which Before the pandemic, they might have scheduled a mati- he himself does not appear, nee and evening performance with Ro Boddie taking on the back to back, but there were role. Through Apr. 18; roundhousetheatre.org those pesky hours to kill in Across the Potomac River, in between. Now it’s possible to Arlington, Virginia, Signature simply queue up a couple of streaming shows and hit play. Theater is presenting “Daniel A natural pairing this month J. Watts’ The Jam: Only Child.” Under Lileana Blain-Cruz’s combines two engaging autobiographical shows written direction, Watts (who played by gifted actors looking back Ike Turner in “Tina: The Tina on their childhoods. Round Turner Musical” on Broadway) House Theater of Bethesrecalls growing up with his da, Maryland, is presenting single mother in the 1980s and Colman Domingo’s “A Boy ’90s. The title refers to fruit and His Soul,” which played spread, but sound and music off-Broadway in 2009. energize the show, with DJ Domingo, who portrayed the Duggz spinning onstage and bandleader Cutler in the film acting as Watts’ occasional New York Times

Wesley Jenks, vice president of Jenks Productions

Expo

THURSDAY, APRIL 15, 2021 | E3

and four others from Modern Formal Mobile Showroom, a floral gift certificate from Mark Henry Florist, and a capture station with guest book from Totally Hitched by SSUP. Jenks said they are adhering to state indoor capacity restrictions by selling tickets in time slots. Morning sessions both days are from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and afternoon sessions are from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Tickets are $10 and available online or at the door. For additional info, visit jenksproductions.com.

sidekick. Through May 7; sigtheatre.org ‘Cockfight Play’ Randy Harrison takes on the lead role of John in Studio Theater’s fully staged digital production of Mike Bartlett’s “Cockfight Play.” (The actual title is just one word, so use your deductive skills). John is in a relationship with M (Scott Parkinson) when he falls in love with W (Kathryn Tkel). “Love?” a startled M says. “She?” Bartlett’s deceivingly simple premise explores the vagaries of romantic attraction, and the director David Muse makes good use of a split screen to overcome the actors’ need to maintain their distance. Through Apr. 18; studiotheatre.org SEE THEATER, PAGE E5

Jenks Productions presents the 31st Annual Springfield

APRIL 17 & 18 SATURDAY and SUNDAY Morning Session 11-1:30 Afternoon Session 1:30-4 Pre-purchase tickets at Jenksproductions.com Admission $10 Limited number of tickets at the door

Event will practice Social Distancing, Hand Sanitation Stations, temperature scanned on entry and face mask requirement.

Bridal Shops • Formal Wear • Invitations • Health & Wellness Photographers • Videographers • Florists • Caterers • Jewelers • Disc Jockeys Entertainment • Make-Up & Hair Styles • Travel Agents • Banquet Facilities Weddings Consultants • Hotels • Limousine Service • Gifts & Much More!

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MUSIC

Staind to drop first album in nearly a decade Fame Ave. in Springfield.

George Lenker LiveWire

ESTERN MASSAchusetts’ multiplatinum-selling rock band Staind returns with its first album in almost a decade: “Live: It’s Been Awhile.” Recorded in 2019 at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut, the 14 songs were recorded during a group of shows when the band was preparing for a 2020 tour that was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is the rock band’s first album since 2012’s “Live from Mohegan Sun,” which was released a year after their last studio album, “Staind.” To celebrate the release of the live album on May 7, Staind announced that fans will be able to view “The Return Of Staind: A Two Part Global Streaming Series.” The first part of the event will feature “Live: It’s Been Awhile from Foxwoods” on May 1, followed by a performance of the band’s “Break The Cycle” album at Mill 1 in Open Square in Holyoke on May 8. The performance marks the 20th anniversary of the record, which featured such tracks as “Fade,” “It’s Been Awhile” and “Outside.” Tickets are available at staindlive.com. Staind features frontman Aaron Lewis, lead guitarist Mike Mushok, bassist Johnny April, and drummer Sal Giancarelli. The band’s seven studio albums have sold nearly 15 million copies.

• Lou Barlow will be quite happy during the next few months. On May 28, Barlow will release a new solo album, “Reason to Live,” on the Joyful Noise label. But before that, Barlow’s initial notable band, Dinosaur Jr., will release a new album, “Sweep It Into Space,” on April 23. This will be followed by rescheduled tour dates that were canceled in 2020. Barlow also dropped the first single from his new solo venture, Aaron Lewis performs an acoustic performance with Staind at the Pines Theater in Look Park in “Over You,” 2014. The Western Massachusetts’ multiplatinum-selling rock band will release its first album and described in almost a decade, “Live: It’s Been Awhile,” on May 7. (THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO) its genesis Lou Barlow in a media statement. music series is back starting “‘Over You’ is based on one May 3. The Springfield restaurant’s melody and lyrical fragment nightly concert series, located I captured on cassette back in 1982,” Barlow said. “In near the Basketball Hall of 2019, I decided to resurrect Fame, will run through Aug. and expand this nugget for 29. The featured performers this my ‘Artist Enabler Series’ for Joyful Noise. I used some of year will be Smith & Ingram the original lyrics: ‘I knew on Mondays, Gary & Natalie everything about you. I knew Jones on Tuesdays, Eagle nothing about you’ and built on Eyes on Wednesdays, Good Acoustics on Thursdays, Tom that feeling, the phrase ‘over you’ became the chorus. I reIngram on Fridays, Floyd corded the basic tracks for the Patterson on Saturdays and new version onto cassette in an the Ethel Lee Ensemble on attempt to mimic the atmoSundays. James Taylor will play the Koussevitzky Music Shed at Tanglesphere of the original.” Uno is located at 820 Hall of wood on Aug. 31. (RICHARD SHOTWELL / INVISION / AP) Liner notes • Singer-songwriter James Taylor will perform this summer at Tanglewood, albeit a little later than usual. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee typically stages a concert at the Koussevitzky Music Shed on July 4. Instead, he will play there this summer on Aug. 31. Tickets sold months ago for the anticipated July 4 date will be honored Aug. 31. “Due to the fluid COVID-19 government mandated capacity limits in Massachusetts, Tanglewood has announced that no additional concert tick-

ets (beyond what has already been sold) will be offered for August 31 at this time,” Taylor posted on Facebook last week. The Boston Symphony Orchestra has already unveiled its plans for an abbreviated sixweek classical summer season at Tanglewood. The COVID-19 pandemic forced the BSO last year to cancel the 2020 season. The BSO had not skipped a season in the Berkshires since World War II, when no performances were staged between 1942 and 1945. • Uno’s Summer Courtyard

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WEEKEND

THURSDAY, APRIL 15, 2021 | E5

SPRINGFIELD

Armenian Food Festival returns as takeout event

By Cori Urban

church event,” she added. Food can be purchased as a meal, and some sides are a la Event: Armenian Food he annual Festival carte. Armenian When: Saturday from noon Customers can pay via to 5 p.m. Paypal or personal check Food FesWhere: St. Gregory Armeprior to the event (preferred) tival at St. nian Apostolic Church, 135 or pay by cash or check on Goodwin St., Indian Orchard day of pickup. No delivery is Gregory section of Springfield available. Armenian Apostolic Place order or more inProceeds from the event formation: Call the church Church will take place will be used for the operation office at 413-543-4763 of the church. Saturday as a takeoutor Sima Setian Pariseau “We would love to hold our at 413-262-7251 or email only event. annual Father’s Day Picnic spariseau@charter.net. The event is usually a poputhis year if we can,” Muradilar time to gather for Armean-Brubach said; it had to be nian foods and socializing, canceled last year because of A half dozen cooks, grillers but because of the pandemic, the pandemic. and bakers will prepare the organizers at the church in The Spring Armenian Food food at the church. the Indian Orchard section of Festival will take place Satur“If you’ve never had Armenian food before, you’ve day from noon to 5 p.m. at 135 Springfield decided to serve Goodwin St. missed out. It’s very flavortakeout only. The Spring Armenian Food Festival at St. Gregory Armenian “We had a takeout event in Apostolic Church in Springfield will be a takeout-only event ful,” Muradian-Brubach said. To place a takeout order or the fall, and due to its success, and will run Saturday from noon to 5 p.m. Many non-Armenian people for more information, call the church office at 413-543-4763 we wanted to have anothare regulars at the festival, er one for the spring,” said ing two kinds of grilled kebab Armenian breads and pastries which draws people because or Sima Setian Pariseau at church member Claudia Mu- — shish kebab (marinated 413-262-7251 or email of its “wonderful, flavorful including choerag, paklava radian-Brubach, a board of spariseau@charter.net. lamb chunks) and losh kebab and khadayif. food and also because it is a trustees member. “We all still (seasoned ground lamb and need to stay safe during this beef) — served with rice pilaf, pandemic so in order to share fasoulia (Armenian green our wonderful food with the beans) and pita bread. For community, we will continue lighter fare, visitors can order to have this takeout event.” spinach-cheese pie. Baked CLAUDIA MURADIAN-BRUBACH Meals will be served featur- goods will feature traditional

IF YOU GO

Special to The Republican

“If you’ve never had Armenian food before, you’ve missed out. It’s very flavorful.”

Theater

and 26; periodpieceplay.com

‘Hype Man: a break beat play’ ‘Period Piece’ This play with music by Idris Don’t expect costumes of Goodwin revolves around the yesteryear. This project, conrelationship between a white ceived by Susan Cinoman, has M.C. (Michael Knowlton) and enrolled an impressive roster his Black hype man (Kadahj of playwrights — among them, Bennett). Their friendship goes Ngozi Anyanwu, Bekah Brunfrom complicated to adverstetter, Lisa D’Amour, Kirsten sarial as they react differently Greenidge, Lauren Gunderson, to a case of police brutality, Theresa Rebeck, Sarah Ruhl while their beat-maker (Rachel and Caridad Svich — to create Cognata) is stuck in the middle. monologues about periods. The The show ran in New York works, directed by Karen Carin 2018, but Company One’s penter (“Love, Loss, and What version, presented by the I Wore”), are spread over three American Repertory Theater, evenings, and each has a unique is freshly urgent, considering cast; participants include the past year’s debates around Geneva Carr, Judy Gold, Julie policing and the appropriation Halston, Jessica Hecht, Mia of historically Black art forms. Katigbak, Beth Leavel, Lauren Through May 8; american Patten and Julie White. April 19 repertorytheater.org CONTINUED FROM PAGE E3

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WEEKEND

E6 | THURSDAY, APRIL 15, 2021

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TELEVISION

New series to stream By Noel Murray

New York Times

Detective Elliot Stabler returns Christopher Meloni appears as Detective Elliot Stabler in “Law & Order: Organized Crime.” (VIRGINIA SHERWOOD / NBC/ TNS)

‘Law & Order: Organized Crime’ airs Thursdays on NBC

By NEAL JUSTIN

Star Tribune

ight dramas have carried the “Law & Order” brand. But there’s only one Elliot Stabler. The hotheaded detective from “Special Victims Unit” returned this month to headline his own series, “Law & Order: Organized Crime,” which drew more than 7.5 million viewers on opening night. Other than “The Equalizer,” which launched right after the Super Bowl, that’s the best series debut among adults 18-49 this season. The “SVU” episode that led into the premiere drew that drama’s best numbers since 2016, thanks in no small part to the long-anticipated reunion between Stabler and his former partner Olivia Benson, portrayed by Mariska Hargitay for more than two decades. “It’s all pretty overwhelming,” said Christopher Meloni, who returns to the role of Stabler after a 10-year absence. “I think Mariska was expecting it more than I was since she’s

been in the ‘Law & Order’ stew continuously. I was not prepared. It’s wonderful.” Meloni, who turned 60 this month, seemingly left the series in 2011 due to contract disputes. But it’s also fair to assume that he was searching for meatier work. In the “Law & Order” world, character usually takes a back seat to procedure. Hargitay is

explosion set off by a gangster, played by Dylan McDermott. Already we’ve seen our hero almost punch a suspect in the face, suffer nightmares, get assaulted and shed tears, all while trying to help assemble a new team of detectives that colors outside the lines. “Did you ever think you’d see Stabler cry?” franchise mastermind Dick Wolf told TV critics

“I think Chris is becoming one of the most complex television stars in the history of the medium because you don’t know what he’s going to do now. He’s a little more unpredictable.” Dick Wolf

the only actor in the franchise’s 31-year history to ever win an Emmy for playing a series regular. But in just the first few episodes of “Organized Crime,” which airs Thursday nights on NBC, you can see how Meloni got lured back in. This time around, the writers are more interested in getting inside the protagonist’s head, diving deep into his response to losing his wife in a car

in a virtual press conference with Meloni and showrunner Ilene Chaiken. “I think Chris is becoming one of the most complex television stars in the history of the medium because you don’t know what he’s going to do now. He’s a little more unpredictable.” Instead of the usual caseof-the-week format, Wolf is planning three eight-episode arcs that will borrow from

SEE DETECTIVE, PAGE E11

‘Worn Stories,’ Season 1 For over a decade now, writer and historian Emily Spivack has been gathering anecdotes about the everyday objects – clothing especially – that people find meaningful. Now Spivack and “Orange Is the New Black” creator Jenji Kohan have produced “Worn Stories,” a docu-series adapting the author’s 2014 book of the same name. Each of the eight half-hour episodes contains short reflections on how and why we dress, peppered between longer slice-of-life segments about everything from work uniforms to flamboyant costumes to the appeal of nudism. The clothes themselves (or the lack thereof, in the nudism episode) are just a hook, allowing the show’s creative team to spend some time with a diverse collection of likable folks, as they explain their passions. Currently streaming on Netflix. ‘Them’ The first season of the new horror anthology series “Them” has the subtitle “Covenant,” referring to the rules for residents of a middle-class Los Angeles suburban subdivision in the early 1950s. A Black married couple (played by Deborah Ayorinde and Ashley Thomas) and their two young daughters move from North Carolina to an all-white neighborhood, looking for their piece of the American dream. There, they meet open hostility from their new neighbors (including the local housewives’ cruel ringleader, played by Alison Pill), while also being haunted by strange supernatural forces. Created by Little Marvin and produced by Lena Waithe, “Them” uses the discomforting facts of racial discrimination to unsettle the audience, even before the nonhuman monsters arrive. Streaming on Amazon.

‘Exterminate All the Brutes’ Filmmaker Raoul Peck – perhaps best known for his Oscar-nominated 2016 documentary, “I Am Not Your Negro” – tackles his most ambitious project yet with this four-part cinematic essay. “Exterminate All the Brutes” is based in part on Sven Lindqvist’s book of the same name and also on the work of academics Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz and Michel-Rolph Trouillot. Relying on a mix of clips from old movies and new dramatizations of historical incidents – overlaid with the director’s discursive narration – Peck considers how high and low culture alike has shaped the narratives around Indigenous people and their colonial invaders. Equal parts informative and provocative, this project is aimed at changing the way viewers think about who history’s heroes and villains are. Streaming on HBO. ‘Mare of Easttown’ Kate Winslet plays a dogged small-town Pennsylvania police detective with a messy home life in “Mare of Easttown,” a crime drama created by Brad Ingelsby, the screenwriter of the films “Out of the Furnace” and “The Way Back.” As with Ingelsby’s previous movies, this miniseries uses a pulpy premise – a murder mystery, in this case – as the entry point to a complex and absorbing study of a place at once unique and familiar. The director, Craig SEE STREAM, PAGE E12

Springfield Elks Lodge Bingo Nights

REOPENED

Thursdays Doors Open at 4pm Bingo Starts at 6:15pm 440 Tiffany Street, Springfield 413-736-9448 www.springfieldelks.com COVID Restrictions in Place

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WEEKEND

THURSDAY, APRIL 15, 2021 | E7

MOVIES

Anonymous Oscar voters share secret ballot choices By GLENN WHIPP

WHERE TO WATCH

Los Angeles Times

Oscar voting begins today, meaning we’re one step closer to putting a bow on this never-ending awards season. With academy members making their final choices, we asked three from different branches – a writer, producer and actor – to anonymously share their picks and the reasoning behind them. Their choices were different, but the trio did share a passion for this year’s nominees, a desire to celebrate the strong work and relief that we might soon be seeing movies in theaters again and not on a streaming platform. Writer, woman in her 40s Picture: This is such a stacked category this year. I would be happy for “Minari,” “Nomadland” or “Sound of Metal” to win. If I’m going by my own standards of what makes a best picture – excellent craft, spectacle and a deep well of emotion – I think perhaps “Minari” might be the top choice. But it’s not that I didn’t love the other movies nominated. “Mank” was well made but didn’t feel timely to me. It seemed like it was being made off a playbook from a few years ago. “Judas and the Black

From left, Steven Yeun, Alan Kim, Yuh-Jung Youn, Yeri Han and Noel Cho in “Minari,” inspired by writer-director Lee Isaac Chung’s own life. (JOSH ETHAN JOHNSON/A24/TNS)

Messiah” had tremendous performances but was not as tight as my favorites. “The Trial of the Chicago 7” was fun and again had great performances but felt a bit conscious that it was trying to be an awards movie at times. And “The Father” was truly moving and had imaginative production design, but I read a review that called it “ruthless,” and that felt exactly right. And I can’t have a ruthless movie win best picture. Director: This one is a tossup between “Promising Young Woman” (Emerald Fennell) and “Nomadland” (Chloe Zhao) for me. Both were direct-

ed so skillfully and confidently, and both directors have such a distinctive stamp on their work that excites me. I’d love to give it to “Another Round,” but the directing wasn’t what I loved most about that movie. Side note: I wish “Another Round” had gotten more nominations. Actress: I love all the actresses in this category, and it’s always tough to judge when several actresses are playing real people. But I was so pleasantly shocked by the range of Carey Mulligan’s performance. And Andra Day is such a revelation as Billie Holiday. Frances McDormand is a perennial

DVD RELEASES

Nic Cage battles animatronics in ‘Willy’s Wonderland’ Tribune News Service

New On Demand “The Last Animals”: This documentary film explores the effort to save endangered

elephants and rhinos from extinction, focusing on the conservationists, scientists, poachers and criminal networks involved. “Leap of Faith: William Friedkin on The Exorcist”: Friedkin, the director of the horror classic “The Exorcist,” explores his filmmaking, including how his faith and fate influenced his career, in this documentary.

Oscar favorite and could take it, and I’d be OK with that, but I’d rather someone new get the gold. That’s unfair to Frances’ amazing performance, and I know that. I’m going to go with Carey Mulligan here.

SEE OSCARS, PAGE E11

Pre-order AND Curbside Pick-up Only

Saturday April 17, 2021 From Noon till 5PM

Shish Kebab Dinner

Grilled Lamb Served with Rice Pilaf, Fasoulia (Armenian Green Beans) and Pita Bread ..................................................................................... $15

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Seasoned Ground Lamb and Beef Served with Rice Pilaf, Fasoulia (Armenian Green Beans) and Pita Bread ............................................ $15

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BAKED GOODS

Baked goods will feature traditional Armenian breads and pastries including: choreg 1/2 dozen ($7), paklava (2 pieces for $4) and kadayif (2 pieces for $6)

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Topping the new releases for this week is Nicolas Cage in “Willy’s Wonderland,” where he stars as the unnamed janitor of the titular theme park, now condemned. A drifter tricked into taking the job, Cage’s ho-hum custodial work takes a deadly turn when the amusement park’s animatronics come to life. Also starring Emily Tosta and Beth Grant.

Also new on DVD “Ancient Aliens: Season 13”: The long-running History Channel program explores theories that aliens visited the planet in ancient times and helped spur human civilization at various crucial moments.

“Another Round”: Hulu; Amherst Cinema “The Father”: Video-on-demand platforms “Judas and the Black Messiah”: Rent via YouTube, Amazon Prime and Google Play; Amherst Cinema “Mank”: Netflix “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom”: Netflix “Minari”: Amazon, Apple TV and other video-on-demand platforms; Amherst Cinema “Nomadland”: Hulu; Amherst Cinema “One Night in Miami...”: Amazon Prime “Promising Young Woman”: Apple TV and other video-on-demand platforms “Sound of Metal”: Amazon Prime “The Trial of the Chicago 7”: Netflix “The United States Vs. Billie Holiday”: Hulu “Borat Subsequent Moviefilm”: Amazon Prime

Actor: This is between Riz Ahmed and Anthony Hopkins for me. Both performances were deeply moving and satisfying and had so many layers. I think I’m going to go with Riz, though. That was a role well outside of many of his comfort zones – being a metal drummer and being deaf – and he completely nailed it. Supporting actress: Maria Bakalova was positively revelatory in “Borat.” I didn’t think anyone could match Sacha Baron Cohen’s energy, but she matches and exceeds it. However, this is Yuh-Jung Youn’s. Her performance as that grandmother was surprising, fun and heartbreaking. It knocked me off my feet and was a big part of the reason I loved “Minari” so much. Supporting actor: It is so bizarre that both Daniel Kaluuya and LaKeith Stanfield are nominated for supporting actor. This for me is between Leslie Odom Jr. and Paul Raci. Leslie really shines in the second half of “One Night in Miami....” He is so amazing at playing Sam Cooke’s frustrations bubbling just below the surface. Paul Raci gave such a heartbreaking and charming performance in

WEEKEND

E8 | THURSDAY, APRIL 15, 2021

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DINE & WINE

Rochefort 10 may not be my ‘favorite,’ but it’s the best

URING THE ALmost 18 years I’ve been writing this column, more than a few people have asked me, “What’s your favorite beer?” That’s a loaded question, of course, and, like anyone, my answer was never fixed on one beer in any way. If I had one, my answer would depend on the year, month or even day you asked me. But, in reality, I never gave anyone a real answer. My stock joke answers were usually, “The one that’s in front of me,” or “a free one,” or “the one you’re about to buy me.” I have had favorites at various times but never any particular one that separated itself so far from the pack of excellent brews at the top of my list in such a way that put it as a clear-cut absolute favorite. But what I can say — and decided to do so today — is which beer I consider the best-made brew of all the ones I have had over my life. This doesn’t mean it’s my “favorite” (although I obviously enjoy it immensely); it’s just the one that I consider to be the beer that most closely resembles a piece of art in my view. I only drink it occasionally and, while it’s a style that I enjoy, it’s not my favorite style. That beer is Trappistes Rochefort 10, a Belgian quad made under the supervision of Trappist monks of Notre-Dame de SaintRémy Abbey at Brasserie de Rochefort. This beer is held in high esteem by just about everyone, but it doesn’t top many lists like I am saying here. It gets a 100 rating on BeerAdvocate.com but is only the 93rd-highest ranked beer on the website’s list. Not that No. 93 is a bad place to be,

George Lenker Beer Nut

These brewers have choreographed this ballet of flavors like Swan Lake. but in my opinion it’s kind of like saying The Beatles make the Top 100 bands, but just barely. So although the brew is clearly beloved it’s also underrated, in my opinion. I’ve had the previously highly esteemed Belgian brew, Westvleteren 12, which was No. 1 on BeerAdvocate forever, or so it seemed (until imperial stouts and IPAs pushed everything else aside), and I like Rochefort 10 quite a bit more than Westie 12. With Rochefort 10, it’s the complexity of the brew coupled with how all the parts hang together seamlessly, like a sublime symphony. The blend of toasted maltiness, plum notes (and other dark fruits), caramel and floral hops is an exotic melange that easily could go sideways. But these brewers have choreographed this ballet of flavors like Swan Lake. On top of everything else, Rochefort 10 is 11.3% (alcohol by volume) and the booziness is barely noticeable — which is a neat trick in itself. I knew I should have become a monk.

10% of restaurants permanently closed since pandemic began, study shows

VER SINCE THE pandemic-triggered shutdown of the restaurant industry began last March, there have been efforts aplenty to quantify the damage public health mandates have caused. Over the last 12 months various restaurant casualty headcounts have been developed. Some were based on anecdotal evidence while other tallies were derived from more substantive information. In a few instances figures generated to justify lobbying efforts in favor of restaurant relief have even turned out to be somewhat overstated. Now better, more reliable information is beginning to emerge. Datassential, a market research firm that does work in the food service field, released its findings on restaurant shutdowns as of late March. Using numbers gleaned from Firefly, the firm’s proprietary database, Datassential reports that 10.2% of all restaurants in operation at the start of the pandemic in March 2020 have now permanently closed. The report also reveals some interesting and sometimes unexpected details. Least impacted by pandemic shutdowns, according to the Firefly data, were what the industry refers to as “quick service restaurants” — primarily fast food operations. Not surprisingly, this segment, which was well-positioned to shift to the takeout and delivery pandemic restrictions promoted, experienced relatively few closures, less than 10%. Datassential also tracks food trucks in its Firefly data, and that mobile, low-overhead segment has racked up surprisingly significant casualties, with more than 22% of all such operations now out of business. Another unsurprising item

The Irish House Restaurant and Trinity Pub, located inside the Irish Cultural Center at 429 Morgan Road in West Springfield, has introduced a new Sunday brunch. The brunch menu features a full Irish Breakfast of scrambled eggs, bacon, black and white puddings, Irish bangers, baked beans, and sliced tomatoes. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

reports can be found online at datassential.com

Hugh Robert Off The Menu

in the data was the number of big-city shutdowns — think expense-account dining — with localities like Washington, D.C., reporting a closure rate of nearly 15%. In comments published in the restaurant industry press, Datassential researcher Jack Li, the firm’s CEO, struck a hopeful note despite having reported the bad news that one out of every 10 restaurants is now permanently shuttered. Li speculated that establishments that have managed to stay open this long have excellent long-term prospects, thanks to their demonstrated ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Information on Datassential’s research and analytic

Side dishes • Located in the Inn on Boltwood in Amherst, 30Boltwood has announced expanded spring hours. The restaurant will be operating Wednesdays through Saturdays from noon until 9 p.m. and on Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Both outdoor and indoor seating is available; the restaurant answers at 413835-201.

• Participating Cracker Barrel Old Country Store locations have added a “Heat n’ Serve” Prime Rib Family Dinner to the repertoire of togo options. The dinner includes prime rib, both au jus and horseradish sauce, mashed potatoes, two sides, gravy and rolls. Heating instructions are also provided. There are Cracker Barrel locations on Whiting Farms Road in Holyoke and on Route 20 in Sturbridge. • Dairy Queen locations are celebrating the arrival

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DINE & WINE

Strawberry Splash. The Shortstop Bar & Grill answers at 413-642-6370.

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of spring with two limited-time-only menu offerings. The first, a chicken & biscuits basket, features chicken strips with miniature biscuits. French fries and country gravy are also included. For “Blizzard” fans, Dairy Queen is spinning up a Frosted Animal Cookie Blizzard Treat, a combination of soft serve, pink confetti frosting, and animal cookie pieces. The chain is also rolling out three new shakes — choco hazelnut chip, mint chip, and raspberry chip — all of which will be available through the summer months. • Champney’s Restaurant at the Deerfield Inn in Deerfield will be holding two “Fancy Nancy” luncheons, one on April 24 and a second on April 25. Both will start at 11:30 a.m. and offer a full children’s menu. Participants are encouraged to come “dressed fancy” and enjoy a reading of Jane O’Connor’s children’s story “Fancy Nancy.” Reservations, which can be made by calling 413-774-5587, are suggested.

The Shortstop Bar & Grill, 99 Springfield Road in Westfield, is opening its patio seven days a week from noon until 9 p.m. weather permitting. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

made with Irish cheddar, and Guinness slow-roasted pot roast are a representative sampling of the entree options. Dinner is served Wednesday through Saturday evenings until 9 p.m. The Irish House answers at 413-342-4358 Pasta E Basta, 26 Main St. in downtown Amherst, has reopened its inside dining spaces, serving dinner Thursdays through Sundays from 5 to 9 p.m. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

• April’s warmer weather is encouraging local dining establishments to “take it outside.” The Shortstop Bar and Grill in Westfield is opening its patio seven days a week from noon until 9 p.m., weather permitting. To welcome the warmer weather, the Shortstop has developed a menu of spring cocktails. Libations on the list range from a Pineapple Upside-Down martini and Spring Fever sangria to a Mint

• As of April 1 the Publick House Historic Inn in Sturbridge has reopened its dining rooms for both a la carte service and function bookings. Lunch is being served Wednesdays through Saturdays from noon until 4 p.m. The inn’s dinner menu, which includes its signature Thanksgiving Turkey Dinner, will be

Hugh Robert is a faculty member in Holyoke Community College’s hospitality and culinary arts program and has nearly 45 years of restaurant and educational experience. Robert can be reached online at OffTheMenuGuy@aol.com.

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white puddings, Irish bangers, baked beans, and sliced tomatoes. A North American Breakfast replaces the bangers and puddings with corned beef • Typical Sicilian Ristohash and hash brown potatoes; rante, one of greater Springa vegetarian option is also field’s most popular Italian available. eateries, has relocated to East Brunch guests can, if they Longmeadow at 192 North prefer, create a custom breakfast option from a list of ala Main Street. Currently a takeout-only carte favorites. operation, Typical Sicilian is A special feature of the preparing both lunch and dinbrunch is the Bloody Mary Bar, ner four days a week, Tuesday a set of beverage and garnish through Friday, and dinner options that the restaurant is only on Saturday. promoting as the “best in the Details about menu and oper- Valley.” ating hours can be found at the Brunch is available every restaurant’s website, typical Sunday from 10 a.m. until 1 sicilian.com. p.m. with both indoor and The establishment answers at (weather permitting) outdoor 413-224-2900. seating available. Reservations are suggested. • The Irish House RestauThe Irish House has also put rant at the Irish Cultural Cen- a new dinner menu in place. ter of Western New England in Starters now include Irish West Springfield has introfish cakes and shepherd’s pie duced a new Sunday brunch. potatoes, while the selection of The brunch menu features a sandwiches offered includes a full Irish Breakfast of scramclassic reuben. bled eggs, bacon, black and Lamb stew, mac & cheese

• Pasta E Basta in Amherst has reopened its inside dining spaces as of April 8, serving dinner Thursdays through Sundays from 5 to 9 p.m. Reservations are recommended. Family meals to-go remain available for both pick-up and local delivery. Meals can be sized to accommodate four, six, or eight diners, and each package include salad, pasta, and bread. Among the available entree options are chicken parmesan, penne primavera, crazy alfredo, and spaghetti shrimp and broccoli. Pasta E Basta’s full menu can be seen on its website, pastaebastaofamherst.com. Its telephone number is 413256-3550.

• The Delaney House in Holyoke is also promoting al fresco dining; the layout of its canopied terrace exceeds all state distancing requirement. Dining service at the restaurant, as well as takeout, is currently available from Wednesday through Sunday 5 to 8 p.m. The Delaney House answers at 413-532-1800.

offered on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4 to 7 p.m., on Fridays and Saturdays from 4 to 8 p.m., and on Sunday from noon until 5 p.m. Both menus can be viewed on the Publick House website, publickhouse. com. The inn’s management has made the decision to keep the Publick House bakeshop stocked with chilled and ready to reheat meals to go. Publick House dining reservations can be made through opentable.com and the restaurant answers at 508-3473313.

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DINE & WINE

3 outstanding Spanish red wines for under $8

ocation matters when it comes to finding a bargain.

Whether it’s real estate, hotels and often even restaurants, some places cost less. The same is often true with wine. You often pay a lot more for wines from certain places, like California’s Napa Valley or Italy’s Tuscany region. You also often pay a premium for wines from certain wineries. Just like luxury brand names like a purse from Hermes or a car from Lamborghini, be prepared to shell out a small fortune for wines from Chateau Latour or Petrus in Bordeaux or Domaine Leroy in Burgundy. Fortunately, you can sometimes find bargains from some of the best wineries. You just have to look in places off-the-beaten path. One of those places is Spain’s Jumilla region. And when it comes to some of the best values in this part of southeastern Spain, no one comes close to Bodegas Juan Gil. This family owned winery makes some of the best wines in Spain. It also produces some incredible bargains, primarily in Jumilla and several other wine regions in Spain. This week, I wanted to highlight three red wines from Bodegas Juan Gil, which each cost less than $8 a bottle. Yes, you read that right. Under $8 a bottle. I know we’ve been trained to think that price equals quality. But these three wines prove you don’t have to spend a lot of money for outstanding wine. Hope you enjoy them as much I did. Wines recommended this week • 2019 Honoro Vera Garnacha ($7.99 at Table & Vine in West Springfield)

garnacha has a wonderful, luscious, aromatic finish. Bursting with bright fruit flavors (particularly roasted cherries), this flavorful wine was made from grapes grown on “old gnarled vines” in “gravely soil” located in an “arid” region, according to the wine’s label. This is an absolutely outstanding wine at any price.

The three Spanish red wines under $8 a bottle recommended this week. (KEN ROSS PHOTO)

Jumilla deserves recognition for its outstanding, affordable wines. The vast majority of wines from Jumilla are red wines. It also produces some white wines as well, however.

Ken Ross Wine Press

• 2018 Honoro Vera Monastrell ($7.99 at Table & Vine) • 2019 Honoro Vera Monastrell ($7.99 at Table & Vine)

wines made primarily with Monastrell grapes. Many of its wines are in the $8 to $15 range, including the three red wines highlighted this week from Bodegas Juan Gil with the Honoro Vera label. The Gil family also makes several higher-priced wines, including two, outstanding red wines (Clio and El Nido) from Jumilla produced by Bodegas El Nido, which is a joint venture between Bodegas Juan Gil and Australian winemaker Chris Ringland.

ing, affordable wines. The vast majority of wines from Jumilla are red wines. It also produces some white wines as well, however. And when it comes to red wines from Jumilla, monastrell is king. Roughly 80% of the grapes grown in Jumilla to make wine are monastrell.

Wine tasting notes 2019 Honoro Vera Garnacha About Bodegas Juan Gil Region: Calatayud, Spain The Gil family has been Grape: Garnacha making wine in Spain’s JuTasting notes: Located in milla region since 1916, when About Jumilla the Aragon region in northThis southeastern wine ern part of central Spain, Juan Gil Gimenez founded region rarely receives as Calatayud is another small, Bodegas Juan Gil. The Gil much attention as more falesser-known wine region family continues to produce a wide range of wines mous, northern Spanish wine that deserves more attention. More than half (55%) primarily in Jumilla but has growing areas like Rioja, expanded to other areas in Ribera del Duero or Navarra. of the wines produced here are made with red garnaSpain as well. Bodegas Juan However, Jumilla deserves Gil is best known for its red recognition for its outstand- cha grapes. This particular

2018 Honoro Vera Monastrell Region: Jumilla, Spain Grape: Monastrell Tasting notes: This intense, austere red wine beautifully illustrates why monastrell grapes dominate the Jumilla region. Aromatic yet understated, this flinty, red wine is the driest of the three wines recommended this week. I am absolutely amazed at how rugged yet refined this wine tastes. Flavors range from dried blackberries to toasted almonds and other, earthy flavors. It is a close favorite among these three great wines. 2019 Honoro Vera Monastrell Region: Jumilla, Spain Grape: Monastrell Tasting notes: As I explained in the previous description, all three wines recommended this week prove you don’t have to sacrifice quality for price. This equally outstanding monastrell from Jumilla tastes like a combination of the other two wines recommended this week — slightly fruity yet flinty and austere at the same time. Cherry and blackberry flavors slowly simmer and emerge after each sip. But such flavors are not over the top or overpowering. They’re simply delightful, delicate and delicious. Cheers! Wine Press by Ken Ross appears on Masslive.com every Monday and in The Republican’s weekend section every Thursday.

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BRIMFIELD

Hitchcock Academy begins farmers market Saturday Hitchcock Academy will begin one of the region’s earliest farmers markets on Saturday. Located in the academy’s parking lot at the corner of Brookfield Road and North Main Street, the market will be open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. through Oct. 30, except during flea market weeks. For 26 weeks, the market will feature vendors offering homemade goods, locally grown, vegetable and flowering plants, produce, meat, baked goods, maple products, ice cream, herbs, soaps, salts, washes, balms, and more. Two of the vendors, Flourish

IF YOU GO Event: Hitchcock Academy farmers market When: Saturdays through Oct. 30, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Academy parking lot, corner of Brookfield Road, North Main Street For more info: Online, hitchcockacademy.org

Farm and Hunt Road Berry Farm, are set up to process SNAP and Healthy Incentives Program benefits to those in need. Says Cindy Skowyra, Hitchcock Academy’s executive

Detective

Oscars

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“The Godfather,” “American Gangster” and “Scarface,” with dynamic villains that would make James Bond think seriously about retirement. “This gives Chris a constant source of energy and outrage. He has to find a different way of pursing criminals than we have done before,” Wolf said. “We’re shooting for bigger game.” Meloni admits that he’s only watched about 10 minutes of “SVU” since leaving in 2011 (“I’m not much of a TV watcher, so it’s nothing personal”), but he never forgot what makes Stabler tick. “Injustice makes his head explode,” said Meloni, who convinced Wolf back in 1999 to give Stabler four kids instead of three, just so the character would face even more pressure. “But he was always one step removed. Now how does he attend to his own injustice? How do you carry on with so much grief?” Stabler’s challenge stands in sharp contrast to Meloni’s approach to his homecoming. “I feel a lot less pressure than I did the first time around,” he said. “I’m a lot freer to appreciate everything. It’s a nice journey.”

“Sound of Metal.” Completely authentic and lived-in. I think I’m going to say Paul Raci, partially because I want to watch him win. Producer, man in his 40s Picture: “Minari.” It’s normally not one I would vote for for picture. But something about it, maybe because I didn’t know anything about it going in ... it felt like a perfect, charming drama about America. Director: “Nomadland” wasn’t my favorite movie this year, but I think what Chloe Zhao did as a director, to create that thing out of thin air and mix real characters with actors and move around and make a road movie that had a restrained emotion, was superb. Actress: Andra Day as Billie Holiday ... I started skeptical because Billie Holiday is so well-known, but she became the character. Viola Davis was solid too. Frances McDormand is always amazing. And it was fun to see Carey Mulligan in that role. But it’s hard to portray a legend, so Andra Day. Actor: Anthony Hopkins was so good in “The Father.” I was completely devastated by

director, “The farmers market also provides a consistent source of high quality goods. Week after week you greet the same vendors.” Entry into the market will require a mask. Patrons are also asked to follow current social distancing protocols. On April 24 at 9 a.m., just across the street from the market, the academy invites community members to participate in its effort to fix up tennis and basketball courts. Spearheaded by Ken Hawk, of Hawk’s Lawncare and Landscaping, the projects will include cutting brush and a few small trees, raking leaves

and general clean-up. Anyone who is interested in participating can find information about the project in the Events Section of the website, hitchcockacademy.org. While registration is not required Skowyra says it will assist for planning purposes. Drinks and snacks will be provided. Rain date for the clean-up project is April 25 at noon. Hitchcock Academy rounds out its April offerings with an online seasonal look at the night sky. Astronomy, which features planetarium software, takes place April 19 and 29. Details are available on

Director Chloe Zhao, left, appears with actress Frances McDormand on the set of “Nomadland.” (SEARCHLIGHT PICTURES VIA AP)

that one. As someone who has parents getting older, that one really affected me. It’s a good category, though I thought Chadwick Boseman was terrible in “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.” I didn’t understand that one. The movie was too theatrical and too over-thetop in a way that just wasn’t landing. Supporting actress: Right when I was watching it, I thought Yuh-Jung Youn is going to be my supporting actress choice. She was just so good. Supporting actor: I don’t know how they decided supporting for “Judas and

the Black Messiah.” I liked them both. I’m voting for Daniel (Kaluuya). LaKeith Stanfield was really good too, but I thought that was more a lead role. In terms of movies covering that era, I thought that movie was much better by far than “The Trial of the Chicago 7.” Actor, woman in her 50s Picture: I adore all these movies and could rank them one way today and a different way tomorrow. I’m leaning toward “Nomadland” for its beauty and the way it captured this woman’s journey of dis-

the website. Hitchcock will hold its second annual plant sale fundraiser in its parking lot on May 22. All types of annual, perennial, vegetable and hanging plants will be on sale. Donations from area gardens are welcome. Hitchcock is planning the 11th annual townwide tag sale for June 5 and its first golf tournament June 26 at the Heritage Country Club in Charlton. Sponsorship opportunities are available for this event and may be obtained by emailing Skowrya at execdirector@hitchcockacademy. org.

covery. It felt like something we’ve all been going through in some fashion the past year. Director: Chloe Zhao for the reasons I’m voting for “Nomadland” and for the way she blended the fictional narrative and the true stories of the nomads in such a powerful way. Actress: Frances McDormand has always been an inspiration, and I love all the subtle things she does in “Nomadland.” That last scene of her going through the house just moved me to tears. Actor: Anthony Hopkins is another inspiration, and there’s nothing sentimental in the way he depicts this man’s descent into dementia. Still through all the bravado, the vulnerability seeps through and breaks your heart. Just astonishing what he does. Supporting actress: I love “Minari.” Maybe I’ll change my mind and vote for it for best picture! Anyway, YuhJung Youn is so good in that movie, funny and warm and wise. She’s the grandmother I aspire to be someday! Supporting actor: The whole cast of “The Trial of the Chicago 7” is superb, so I feel like someone should be recognized from that movie. Sacha Baron Cohen really captured the essence of Abbie Hoffman, so he gets my vote.

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THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Virtual wine tasting event aids Rotary In recognition of the local and global reach of Rotary’s philanthropy, the Rotary Club of West Springfield is inviting all to raise a glass for a good cause. The Rotary Club and the expert staff at Table & Vine will host a virtual wine tasting on April 30. Participants will be tasting and learning about three different wines from around the world with an optional selection of paired cheeses. All profits will benefit the West Springfield community as well as the global causes of Rotary International. Pricing is per household, with wine only offering at $89.99, a wine and cheese option open to the first 50 participants at $109.99, and show only at $25. Deadline to reserve space is April 25 at 6pm. Visit the club’s website, westspringfieldrotaryclub. com, for reservations. On April 26, upon payment, participants will receive an email with a link for the Zoom invitation and instructions on picking up the wine and

IF YOU GO Event: Rotary Club of West Springfield virtual wine tasting fundraiser When: April 30, 6:30 p.m. Where: Online via Zoom Cost: $89.99; limited wine and cheese offer, $109.99; show only, $25 For reservations: Online, westspringfieldrotaryclub. com; deadline, April 25

cheese at Table & Vine, beginning April 28 and up to 6 p.m. on April 30. Rotary International is an organization of business and professional persons united worldwide who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations and help build goodwill and peace in the world. The Rotary Club of West Springfield, under the leadership of president Mike Bertera, meets every other Tuesday at 12:15 via Zoom until in-person meetings are allowed again Storrowton Tavern.

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people whose lives sometimes revolve around drugs, violence and the arcane. In this CONTINUED FROM PAGE E6 three-part docu-series, HoltZobel, and a top-shelf cast house heads into Northern (including Jean Smart as the California’s “Emerald Trianheroine’s opinionated mother gle” — one of the most storied and Julianne Nicholson as her cannabis-growing regions in the world — to look into former high school basketball teammate) capture the a legend he heard decades limitations and comforts of ago, about a trio of farmers a community where everywho were dismembered by body knows one another’s the infamous cryptid known secrets. The gray tones and the as Bigfoot. Director Joshua procedural plot resemble grim Rofé follows Holthouse into European cop shows, but the the wild, as he interviews performances and dialogue locals who are enthusiastic exhibit a lot of vitality. Stream- about both marijuana and ing April 18 on HBO. the paranormal. The stories they unearth are partly about ‘Sasquatch’ eerie phenomena and partly Journalist David Holthouse about the very real dangers of has spent a lot of his career a community rampant with investigating American subcrime. Streaming April 20 on cultures, spending time with Hulu.