Weekend - December 23, 2021

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

Weekend

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| THURSDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2021

LIVEWIRE: First Night Northampton to feature wide array of music, E4 HOLIDAY MOVIES: Christmas movie stars share their favorite holiday films, E3 BEER NUT: 6-pack of favorite holiday beer labels, E7

PLUS

Sparkling wines for the holidays, E7

Lighting up the holidays Bright Nights at Forest Park readies to dim lights as season draws to a close, Page E2

E2 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2021

WEEKEND

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

ON THE COVER

Bright Nights readies to dim lights Season draws to close Jan. 2.

T

By Keith O’Connor

Special to The Republican

ime is wasting if you haven’t visited Bright Nights at Forest Park yet this year.

The Northeast’s premier holiday lighting experience in Springfield will dim the lights for another year at the end of the night on Jan. 2, but not before ringing in the New Year on Dec. 31 with some special ways to celebrate.

“Over the past years Bright Nights has become a family tradition for many who especially enjoy a drive through our magical forest on Christmas Eve and on Christmas Day. New Year’s Eve has also become a popular time for families who want to ring in the New Year early with their children,” said Judith A. Matt, president, Spirit of Springfield, who noted on New Year’s Eve there will be free noisemakers or hats for visitors, and a free ride on the carousel at the Gift Shop.

“We are still waiting for a major snowfall to add an additional ambiance to the park as our colorful LED lights reflect off the white surface.

On the other hand, we are also fortunate that we haven’t had to close our gates on any nights due to a major storm, which has kept our attendance healthy,” Matt said.

Now in its 27th year, Bright Nights lights up the sky with

The 2021 season of Bright Nights at Forest Park will remain open through Jan. 2. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

Kathy Tobin rides the carousel with her granddaughter Ginny Martin, 4, at Bright Nights on Nov. 24. At left, the Barney Carriage House light display. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

in Poinsettia Fantasy, then continue their tour viewing “New Year’s Eve has also become a popular displays called American time for families who want to ring in the New Flag, Spirit of the Season, Winter Garden, Springfield Year early with their children.”

Thunderbirds, MGM Springfield, Seuss Land, Letters Judith A. Matt, president, Spirit of Springfield to Santa, Garden of Peace, Jurassic World, Victorian an astounding 675,000 bulbs their way into Forest Park — Village, Barney Mansion, in beautiful colors adornjoining over 6 million visitors Leaping Frog, Winter Woods, ing one-of-a-kind displays from around the world who North Pole Village, Toy Land, throughout the park taking have visited Bright Nights Giant Poinsettia Candles and visitors on a magical threeover the years — they will Happy Holidays, Springfield. mile holiday journey. be greeted at the front gate Matt noted that a musical Today, as drivers make with some giant red flowers soundtrack in the form of

WELF — Elf Radio — heard over 100.7 FM - has been created with over three hours of festive holiday music to accompany the drive-thru attraction.

“Other than stopping at our Gift Shop, visitors must remain in their cars throughout the duration of their ride through the park,” Matt said.

Matt noted among the many national recognitions Bright Nights has received over the years includes Best of the

SEE LIGHTS, PAGE E3

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

WEEKEND

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2021 | E3

FILM

IF YOU GO

Christmas movie stars share their favorite holiday films Carol” with Michael Caine as Scrooge was one of my alltime favorite Christmas movies. And then there’s always “Scrooged” with Bill Murray.

Anything with Scrooge in it is Christmas for me!

Ralphie (Peter Billingsley) visits with Santa in a scene from “A Christmas Story.” (WARNER BROS. / TNS)

‘A Christmas Story,’ ‘It’s A Wonderful Life,’ ‘Scrooge’ among the must-watches

By Donald Liebenson

The Washington Post

The holidays just wouldn’t be the same without hearing Zuzu Bailey tell her father that every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings, or seeing Flick accept a triple dog dare to put his tongue on a frozen pole, or cheering on Scott Calvin as he accepts his destiny to become Santa Claus. But what about the actors who brought these iconic characters to life? The Washington Post asked these and other artists indelibly connected to the holidays what holiday films they watch to make their season bright.

Kim Novak (Gil Holroyd in “Bell, Book and Candle”) “It’s a Wonderful Life” reminds us of the importance of being grateful and showing appreciation for life.

Emeraude Toubia (Lily in “With Love,” Belinda in “Holiday in Santa Fe”) “Miracle on 34th Street” is a favorite of mine. Blackand-white films just have that certain quality that invites the imagination. (You see) the commercialized adult world of Christmas through the eyes of a child, and how the rules of the grown-up world break down when hearts are open to the magic of the holidays. It’s a simple yet profound story of learning to trust your heart.

Aubrey Plaza (Riley in “Hap- Rita Moreno (Beverly piest Season,” co-author in “A Gift of Miracles”) of “The Legend of the Hands down, “The Four Christmas Witch”) Seasons,” Alan Alda’s tribute “The Muppet Christmas SEE FILMS, PAGE E6

American Legion Post 266

Lights

After leaving Bright Nights, the light show continues in downtown Springfield, CONTINUES FROM PAGE E2 where buildings such as Best from the American Bus Monarch Place, MassLive, Association in their recentTD Bank, MassMutual ly published Designations Center, Tower Square, as Magazine. well as MGM Springfield are Hours are Sunday through shining brightly. Also, Court Thursday from 5-9 p.m.; Square has a 30-ft traditional Friday, Saturday and holidays Christmas tree decorated from 5-11 p.m.; and buses with white lights and an with priority reservations illuminated fountain. There from 5-6 p.m. The Northare also halos on the park’s east’s premier holiday light light poles and halos up and display is open Christmas down the Memorial Bridge.

Eve, Christmas Day, New And as you travel Main Street Year’s Eve and New Year’s into the North End, there are Day. snowflakes adorning the light Ticket prices are $23 per posts. car, limousines are $35, mini Before venturing out to visit buses seating 17-31 people are Bright Nights at Forest Park, $80, and buses with a seating you can check brightnights. capacity of more than 31 org/live-webcam to see how people are $175. Tickets must the traffic is flowing. be purchased in advance at Bright Nights at Forest Park brightnights.org or at Big is a collaborative effort by the Y World Class Markets for organizer, Spirit of Spring$16.50 with your Silver Savfield, with Springfield Departings Club Card. ment of Parks, Buildings and Restrooms are available Recreation Management. near the entrance and at the For more information, visit gift shop. brightnights.org.

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Tim Allen (Scott Calvin/ Santa Claus in “The Santa Clause”) I have to go with “White Christmas.” I saw it as a kid; I didn’t quite get it. There’s a certain point where you have to watch it with an adult. It’s so age-specific: It’s all about World War II vets, train rides and clubs in Miami. It’s a world that doesn’t exist, nor am I sure it ever did. It’s warm, and it’s not nailing Christmas on the head.

There are no elves, there’s no Santa Claus. It’s about that group of people who come together to do something for (General Waverly). Essentially, it’s about giving, love and friendship, and at the very end, when the stage set opens up and it’s snowing ...

I choke up thinking about it.

It’s Hollywood done right.

Mario Cantone (the annual holiday episode of Gilbert Gottfried’s Amazing Colossal Podcast, “A Merry-O Cantone Christmas”) “Scrooge,” starring the brilliant Albert Finney. A joyous movie musical written by the late great Leslie Bricusse and directed by Ronald Neame.

This one doesn’t get enough credit. In this year of Mr. Bricusse’s passing, take a look at it. Some serious Christmas spirit will ensue – and “thank you very much!”

Event: Bright Nights at Forest Park When: Sunday through Thursday from 5-9 p.m.; Friday, Saturday and holidays from 5-11 p.m.; and buses with priority reservations from 5-6 p.m. Open Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Through Jan. 2.

Where: 300 Sumner Ave, Springfield Tickets: $23 per car, limousines are $35, mini buses seating 17-31 people are $80, and buses with a seating capacity of more than 31 people are $175. Tickets must be purchased in advance at brightnights.org or at Big Y World Class Markets for $16.50 with a Silver Savings Club Card.

For more info: Visit brightnights.org.

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WEEKEND

E4 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2021

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

MUSIC | CLUBBING

First Night Northampton to feature wide array of music

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Dylan’s publishing catalog last year.

Springsteen’s most recent studio album, “Letter to You,” came out in October 2020.

He has recorded for Columbia Records, a Sony label, since 1973.

ORTHAMPTON will present its 37th annual New Year’s Eve celebration and festival of the performing arts on Dec. 31.

First Night Northampton will feature a smorgasbord of events, including plenty of music. NRBQ will headline First Night Northampton at the Academy of Music Theatre, but there will be numerous other acts spanning all types of music from noon until midnight.

Some of the names include The Nields, Katherine First & Kitchen Party, Myles Jeh, Lisa Bastoni, Soul Magnets, Mark Nomad, Tracy Grammer & Jim Henry, Fancy Trash, and the Fawns.

In addition, fireworks will commence at 6:15 p.m., visible from the heart of the city.

Then, as midnight approaches, the Hotel Northampton will ring in the New Year with its unique “ball-raising.”

• Now that she is free from conservatorship, Britney George Lenker Spears is using her platform to LiveWire address a number of issues.

One topic that is of interest to Dec. 30 at 7:30 p.m. fans is her plans to tour: It seems Filmed at the newly created that she may never do it again.

Divine Theater at Gateway Spears last toured three years The Young@Heart Chorus will perform a virtual concert on City Arts in Holyoke, the virago, and she recently posted on tual concert will feature songs Dec. 30. (STEVEN E. NANTON PHOTO) Instagram how difficult touring celebrating the end of the is. year, opportunities for renew• The Allman Betts Band catalog to Sony Music and the “I know I’m not playing in al, and even holiday cheer. will play the Academy of Music associated publishing rights huge arenas with my loud band The show includes songs by Theatre in Northampton on to Sony Music Publishing in anymore but I will be honest Pink, Sharon Jones & The March 23. a combined deal valued at and say life on the road is hard,” Dap-Kings, Dolly Parton, Tickets, priced between $500 million, according to she wrote in a now-deleted The Lonesome Brothers, $29.50 and $49.50., are avail- Billboard. post.

The Zombies, and a mashable through eventbrite.com.

Springsteen acquired ownAlthough Spears noted that up of David Byrne and Cab The band was founded by ership of his earlier records in she liked playing live at first, she Calloway.

Devon Allman and Duane the late 1980s after the release later loathed the slog of doing As always, Y@H virtual Betts, the sons of two main of the blockbuster “Born in the so. concerts are free to watch, but members of the Allman Broth- USA.” “My first three years in the biz Liner notes this concert is doubling as the ers Band.

The Boss’s catalog includes and on the road were great but group’s end-of-year fundraisRiver Kittens is the openmore than 300 songs, 20 stu- I’ll be completely honest and say • Young@Heart Chorus ing act. dio albums and more. will play its last virtual concert ing campaign. that after those three tours and To register to view the conThe deal eclipses the $300 of the year, titled “Get the the pace I was going … I don’t cert, go to givebutter.com/ • Bruce Springsteen has million paid by Universal Mu- think that I ever want to do it Party Started: Almost Live sold the masters of his entire sic Publishing Group for Bob from the Divine Theater!” on party again!!! I hated it!!!” she added.

Nightclubs THURSDAY Buccaneer Lounge: DJ with rock and Top 40. 86 Maple St., Agawam Doc’s Place: Karaoke. 1264 Granby Road, Chicopee East Mountain Country Club: Thursday Night Trivia. 1458 East Mountain Road, Westfield Mardi Gras: Nude female dancing. 91 Taylor St., Springfield Shadow Lounge: DJ with classics.

278 Worthington St., Springfield Southwick Inn: Open mic hosted

by Steve Piper of Roadhouse Band. 479 College Highway, Southwick The Magic Lantern: Nude female dancers. 399 Wilbraham St., Palmer The Still: Drink specials. 63 Springfield St., Agawam

West Springfield Fish and Game Club: CD jukebox, pool table. 329 Garden St., Feeding Hills Whip City Brew: DJ with dance.

287 Elm St., Westfield

FRIDAY Alina’s: Emery Smith. 96 Russell St., Hadley

SATURDAY Alina’s: Emery Smith. 96 Russell St., Hadley Doc’s Place: Karaoke. 1264 Granby Road, Chicopee Mardi Gras: Nude female dancing.

91 Taylor St., Springfield

The Magic Lantern: Nude female dancers. 399 Wilbraham St., Doc’s Place: Karaoke. 1264 Granby Palmer Road, Chicopee Whip City Brew: DJ with dance.

Mardi Gras: Nude female dancing.

91 Taylor St., Springfield The Hawks & Reed Performing Arts Center: Ugly Sweater Dance Party with DJ REC1. 289 Main St., Greenfield The Magic Lantern: Nude female dancers. 399 Wilbraham St., Palmer West Springfield Fish and Game Club: CD jukebox, pool table. 329 Garden St., Feeding Hills

287 Elm St., Westfield

The Republican is not responsible for unannounced schedule changes. Listings must be received two weeks before event. Items should be mailed to: Enter-

tainment Guide, The Republican, P.O. Box 1329, Springfield, MA 01102-1329; emailed to pmastriano@repub.com; or submitted to masslive.com/myevent

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SUNDAY Doc’s Place: Karaoke. 1264 Granby Road, Chicopee Mardi Gras: Nude female dancing.

91 Taylor St., Springfield The Hawks & Reed Performing Arts Center: Swing Sunday. 289 Main St., Greenfield The Magic Lantern: Nude female dancers. 399 Wilbraham St., Palmer

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WEEKEND

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2021 | E5

DECEMBER 31ST Daniel Craig in “No Time to Die.” (MGM STUDIOS / TNS)

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portraying the younger Tony Daniel Craig’s fifth and final Soprano. outing as 007 tops the DVD “Demon Slayer the Movreleases for this week. ie: Mugen Train”: Feature “No Time to Die”: The film set between the first and 25th James Bond film, delayed second seasons of the hit multiple times by the pandem- Japanese anime series. ic, finds the beloved MI6 spy “Blue Bayou”: Justin Chon enjoying a short-lived retirewrote, directed and stars in ment in Jamaica before being this drama about a man addrawn back into the fold on opted from Korea who faces a globe-trotting mission that deportation after an incident features villainous turns from with law enforcement.

Christoph Waltz and Rami “Every Last One of Malek.

Them”: Action film about a “Director and co-writer Cary father searching for his missJoji Fukunaga has delivered ing daughter who discovers a the goods for Daniel Craig’s larger conspiracy. farewell tour: exciting locales, “Fortress”: Action-thrilljaw-dropping stunts, a beguiling er starring Bruce Willis as Bond girl, a ridiculous villain, a retired CIA agent who, and of course, some romance,” along with his visiting son, is writes Tribune News Service targeted by criminals looking critic Katie Walsh in her review. for revenge.

“Plus, there’s double the 007s, “Hell Hath No Fury”: as Lashana Lynch’s Nomi takes World War II-set action film on Bond’s retired number as about a French woman who MI6’s newest superstar.” promises to lead a group of With a cast that also boasts American soldiers to a cache Ralph Fiennes, Naomi Harris, of hidden gold.

Ben Whishaw, Lea Seydoux “Hotel Transylvania: and Ana de Armas, “Fukunaga Transformania”: The final gives Craig a stunning send-off chapter of the franchise with as Bond, in this beautifully shot Selena Gomez again voicing and epic adventure,” Walsh Mavis and Andy Samberg writes. “Despite the delays, ‘No returning as Jonathan.

Time to Die’ is worth the wait.”

“Resident Evil: Infinite Darkness: Season 1”: First Also new on DVD season of the Netflix animat“The Many Saints of New- ed series based on the popular ark”: David Chase revisits his video game. hit HBO series “The Sopra“Small Engine Repair”: nos” in this prequel movie set Three lifelong friends agree in 1967 New Jersey, with James to do a favor for a woman they Gandolfini’s son Michael all have a soft spot for.

E6 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2021

WEEKEND

Films CONTINUES FROM PAGE E3

to love and marriage with all its warts. I play it every Christmas and laugh out loud every single time. So does my family!

Alonso Duralde (coauthor of “I’ll be Home for Christmas Movies”) My favorite is “It’s a Wonderful Life,” because – to quote Isaac Mizrahi talking about loving Mary Tyler Moore in “Unzipped” – “I’m an American. And I’m not made of stone.” But another that has become an annual staple is the 1970 musical “Scrooge.” Albert Finney is one of the few actors to play Ebenezer as an ambitious young man, and it’s a terrific performance. The last 20 minutes are a wonderful exKarolyn Grimes on the back of Jimmy Stewart in a scene from plosion of Yuletide joy, and it’s “It’s a Wonderful Life,” also starring Donna Reed. (PARAMOUNT HOME a fix I need every December.

ENTERTAINMENT)

Tiler Peck (principal dancer with the New York City Ballet in “The Nutcracker”) Our family definitely always watches “Home Alone.” My mom laughs so hard at that movie, so we just get a kick out of watching her watch.

And then “White Christmas,” because we are a dance family. My mom had a dance studio and she took classes with (“White Christmas” actress) Vera-Ellen, who was also a very big inspiration to me. My grandmother loves the older movies, so it’s one we could enjoy together. It’s one of those old-fashioned musicals.

We don’t see so many of those anymore.

Zack Ward (Scut Farkus in “A Christmas Story”) One of my favorites is “Planes, Trains and Automobiles.” I watched it growing up. It is such a funny movie, very sweet and very kind, with two great comedians, Steve Martin and John Candy, at their peak. It’s about human nature as opposed to things. I grew up very poor, and so Christmas was a time to spend with family and enjoy each other’s company. This is a film people can share to smile and laugh together. That’s Christmas.

Rebecca Harrell (Jessica in “Prancer”) I grew up in rural Vermont without really watching television. We had a couple of bunny ears on the TV and a VHS player, but there was no cable. Part of what brought me into acting was the fact I grew up in such a rural area and I had to use my imagination to entertain myself. I was 8 when I got to play Jessica. I knew it was going to change my life forever. I cried when

I watched it for the first time because it’s a beautiful story about a father and daughter.

For me, it has always been magic. “Prancer” put me on the path to make films about taking care of the Earth and each other, because I saw the power movies have to change people’s hearts.

Beverly D’Angelo (Ellen Griswold in “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”) You watch (“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”) as a kid and identify with what the kids are going through; you watch it as a parent and identify with what the parents are going through; you watch it as a grandparent and identify with what they’re going through. Or you can just be Cousin Eddie. There are so many universal truths. It’s a real lift.

Courtney B. Vance (Rev. Henry Biggs in “The Preacher’s Wife”) My favorite Christmas film is, naturally, “The Preacher’s Wife.” This is not only because I got the opportunity to work alongside a wonderful cast, including Whitney Houston and Denzel Washington, but I have so many joyful memories about working with our esteemed director, the late, great Penny Marshall. The holiday spirit rings through this film even today because of all the goodness we put into making it.

with Darren McGavin, the leg lamp scene and the Chinese restaurant. They’ve been showing “Elf,” and I just laugh my behind off. I also enjoy the heck out of “The Santa Clause.” Like “A Christmas Story,” they are semi-dysfunctional relationship movies about kids who want their overworked dads to pay attention to them. That’s the payoff at the end of “Elf ” – when the family sings “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town” in Central Park – where the dad says, “You know what, my kid is more important than my job.”

Jimmy Hawkins (Tommy Bailey in “It’s a Wonderful Life”) I have several: “It Happened on 5th Avenue,” which is what Frank Capra was going to do before he found “It’s A Wonderful Life.” “A Christmas Story” is set in the time when I grew up, and that’s the way Christmas was to us. “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” is a great picture.

It is like something Capra would do. It had a lot of heart to it. But when you put them all together, you have to give Scott Schwartz (Flick “It’s a Wonderful Life” the in “A Christmas Story”) vote. It’s just an incredible I’ve seen “A Christmas Story” message: We all make a way too much. I click on and off difference. What it does to (during the 24-hour broadcast people who watch the film, marathon). I watch if it’s stuff that’s what’s important.

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Karolyn Grimes (Zuzu in “It’s A Wonderful Life,” Debby in “The Bishop’s Wife”) “The Bishop’s Wife” is a wonderful and inspiring story.

Cary Grant’s an angel. He comes down to straighten out David Niven, who is a preacher who has lost his direction.

I watch that every Christmas and I love it a lot. But “It’s A Wonderful Life” was a gift that was given to me to be that little girl and to carry the message from the film to so many people. I travel for the movie all year round. People share

their stories with me about how this movie has touched their lives. I’m in awe of what Frank Capra gave us.

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

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WEEKEND

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2021 | E7

DINE & WINE

Champagne, sparkling wines perfect for the holidays

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ANY OF THE happiest moments in our lives involve Champagne or sparkling wine.

Ringing in the start of a new year with family and friends.

Raising a glass to a newly married couple at their wedding reception.

Celebrating winning the World Series, the Stanley Cup or another championship season.

But it doesn’t have to be this way.

Why save something we love so much just for New Year’s Eve, Valentine’s Day or other special occasions?

Why not crack open a bottle of cava or prosecco on a Tuesday night? (And honestly, who doesn’t love the sound of a popping cork?)

Who says you only have to drink sparkling wine once or twice a year.

Then again, only having these wines once in a while makes these memorable moments even more special. It’s sort of like cake or caviar or Christmas cookies. If we ate them all the time, we wouldn’t look forward to them so much.

So when should you have Champagne or other sparkling wines?

Whenever you feel like raising a glass for something (or someone) special.

And when you do, here are a few suggestions for some outstanding Champagnes and sparkling wines.

This year (the ninth year in a row!) I divided my recommendations geographically – sparkling wines from around the world (United States, Argentina, etc.) then ones from Italy (I was especially impressed by many proseccos this past year) and France, especially Champagne.

Some of these sparkling wines are fairly inexpensive and cost less than $20 a bottle. Others cost a lot more. But all of them have one thing in

Some of the sparkling wines and Champagnes recommended this week. (KEN ROSS PHOTO)

Where do the bubbles come from?

Bubbles in sparkling wine occur due to several factors – the amount of sugar and yeast in the wine, along with the amount of time the wine ages.

In many cases, the way winemakers create sparkling wine is by adding additional yeast and sugar to wine already in Ken Ross bottles. The bottles are then Wine Press rotated systematically for a few months to a few years, common. They all taste great, depending on the wine. There as Tony The Tiger used to say. are many other ways to make But first let’s get a few sparkling wine. But this is one technical things out of the way of the most popular ways, ofbefore we get to the fun stuff. ten known as the “traditional Hope you enjoy. method” or “classic method.”

History of sparkling wine Sparkling wine has been around for centuries. References to wine with bubbles date back to ancient Greek and Roman times, when people reportedly believed the bubbles were due to different, otherwordly factors, including the phases of the moon and good or evil spirits. Modern sparkling wine dates back roughly to the 1660s, when a monk named Dom Perignon began developing different types of high-quality wines.

Champagne, Belgian beer, amazing cheeses. Boy, those monks sure knew how to live!

Popular sparkling wine regions When it comes to sparkling wine, there are many different places where sparkling wine is made. The most popular types of sparkling wines generally correspond to their area of origin. These include: Champagne (Sparkling wine from France’s Champagne region); cava (Spanish sparkling wine); prosecco (Italian sparkling wine) You can also find many great sparkling wines from other parts of France, California, Argentina, Canada and practiSEE WINE, PAGE E8

6-pack of favorite holiday beer labels

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S WE APPROACH Christmas, my favorite holiday of the year, I’d like to wish everyone happy holidays, whichever ones you might or might not celebrate.

I hope this time of year offers you some good cheer.

I know some people struggle around the holidays, and with George Lenker that in mind, today I’m offerBeer Nut ing the lightest of lighthearted columns: a six-pack of my favorite holiday beer labels. the dude always makes me While there have been plen- grin along with him. It’s not ty of holiday labels over the my favorite beer, as the recipe years, my favorites are mostly is definitely mad: cherries, longstanding ones, and while honey and chocolate malt all I particularly like ones that make an appearance. But if have a classic feel to them, I that’s your thing, you’ve found also like the impish ones. your holiday brew.

Without further ado and in Rogue Santa’s Private no particular order: Reserve: Well, again I have to Samuel Smith’s Winter admit I’ve strayed a bit from Welcome: As a writer, I “classic” labels with this one. would be remiss not to put Also known as “Kringle Kruthis label among the best. Af- sher,” this beer’s label features ter all, it prominently features a Santa with a six-pack (the ab a quote by William Shakemuscle kind) midair and ready speare from “Two Gentlemen to lower the boom on his wresfrom Verona” on the label: tling opponent. Santa must “Blessings of have forgone a While there have few beers to get your heart, you brew good in the shape he’s been plenty of ale.” The image in on this label. holiday labels on the label Anchor over the years, my Christmas Ale: changes each favorites are mostly Back to the clasyear, creating anticipation sics, this label longstanding about what art features a simones, and while I ple yet elegant will be used. particularly like design, with St. Bernardus Christmas a unique tree ones that have Ale: Maybe each year and a classic feel to it’s the clasred and green them, I also like sic design or hues. The beer maybe it’s the the impish ones. is also slightly ruddy-cheeked different every monk wearing year, but always a Santa hat on the label, or delicious. When I first see maybe I’m biased because the this label, I get a little jump in beer itself – a delicious Belgian my step, and for that reason quad – is so good. No matter alone, it gets a mention here. what it is, it gets a spot here.

Rogue Santa’s Butt: The Tröeg’s The Mad Elf: OK, I label focuses on old St. Nick’s know I said I often lean toward rather ample posterior. Need classic labels, and this one is I say more? mainly a cartoonish sketch of What are your favorite holian elf that looks either mad day labels that I missed? or drunk or both. In any case, Let me know at geolenker that impish crooked smile on @yahoo.com.

E8 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2021

WEEKEND

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

DINE & WINE

T

Tipping expands at some restaurants

IPS ARE BACK IN the news.

In the face of staffing shortages and recruiting challenges, some restaurant chains, especially those in the quick service and fast-casual segments of the industry, are reportedly rethinking their attitudes toward tipping.

Previously tipping was Hugh Robert usually either prohibited or Off The Menu actively discouraged in concepts that did not provide full table service, since operating tax reporting obligations. a tipped establishment meant Moreover, it has been burdensome accounting and long-standing marketing ortho-

Wine CONTINUES FROM PAGE E7

cally anywhere in the world.

And again, sorry to go on and on about this each year, but Champagne can only come from France’s Champagne region. I know this might seem like nitpicking. But think of it this way — would you call someone from Massachusetts a New Yorker? Or a cheddar cheese from Vermont a Wisconsin cheddar? I rest my case.

Sweetness levels The more sugar in a sparkling wine, the sweeter the wine tastes. There are six basic levels of sweetness. From sweetest to driest, the six different sweetness levels for sparkling wines are: Doux, demi sec, sec, extra dry, brut, and extra brut.

Grapes used to make sparkling wine Winemakers use all different types of grapes to make sparkling wine. Some of the most common grapes, particularly in France’s Champagne region, include: Chardonnay, pinot noir, pinot meunier.

Certain grapes are also often used to make other types of sparkling wine, including glera for prosecco and cabernet sauvignon, garnacha or monastrell, which are often added to cava. Many other types of grapes are also often used to

doxy that customers appreciate not having to tip in low-amenity fast food or fast-casual dining situations.

However, as operators deal with an unusually tight labor market, tipping is getting a second look, since the practice offers employees the chance to earn more without the restaurant operator having to pay more.

With most transactions now digital, keeping track of tips for reporting purposes can be highly automated and is thus less burdensome, neutralizing

A recent internet survey of tipping behavior reported that a majority of customers had increased their tipping during the pandemic. a traditional operational objection to tipping.

One fast-food chain has already tested a program of facilitating tips for its employees, adding a tip “line” to its ordering app. The test was declared to be a success, and that brand is now rolling out the gratuity option nationwide.

How will customers react to an expansion of tipping into

this wonderful, dry sparkling wine has a clean, crisp taste. I especially love this sparkling wine’s well-balanced finish. By well-balanced, I mean that the Dibon wasn’t too overpowering or underwhelming. It tasted just right. That might also explain why this wine tastes great with a wide range of foods (sliced meats, hard cheese) or on its own. Let me add that this delightful sparkling wine is made using a blend of three grapes — macabeo, parellada and xarello — using the methode traditionelle, traditional method.

previously “no tip” territory?

The answer is anyone’s guess, but a recent internet survey of tipping behavior reported that a majority of customers had increased their tipping during the pandemic. Such generosity, it’s tempting to speculate, might reflect growing public appreciation for the service these “front line” employees are providing.

SEE MENU, PAGE E9

• Zardetto Prosecco Brut DOC NV (SRP $17) Region: Veneto, Italy Made with a blend of Glera grapes and a dash of pinot bianco and chardonnay grown in the hills near Conegliano, this crisp, dry prosecco from one of the most consistently great wineries in Italy has a slightly citrus-like finish with hints of lemon, apricot and ripe blood oranges.

• Altemasi Trentodoc Millesimato 2014 Brut ($22 SRP) Location : Trento, Italy Elegant, refined sparkling wine made with 100% charOne of the Champagnes recommended this week. (PHOTO BY KEN ROSS) donnay grapes from the Trento make sparkling wine, which ex- of the world’s best producers Italian sparkling wines region in northern central Italy. plains the wide range of flavors of consistently good, afford(prosecco) Flavors range from toasted for different ones. able, dry wines. This sparkling • Bread & Butter Prosecco almonds with a hint of honey wine made with a blend of 75% ($13.99 at Yankee Spirits in to melted butter and a dash of Vintage vs. nonvintage chardonnay and 25% pinot Sturbridge and other locations) hazelnuts. It is perfect for cold Often, grapes harvested from noir grapes has a crisp, light, Location: Veneto, Italy winter nights before or after different years are blended to- delicate finish with hints of This California-based winery dinner. gether to make sparkling wines. lemon, apples and lime. Truly created this refreshing, Italian These are nonvintage sparkling refreshing. sparkling wine with — you French sparkling wines wines.

• Gruet Brut Rose ($14.99 at guessed it — a slightly buttery • De Chanceny Cremant de You’ll often see the letters NV Table & Vine in West Springfinish with soft, subtle hints of Loire Brut ($15.99 at Whole on these sparkling wines. Vin- field and other locations) pears, honey crisp apples, ripe Foods in Hadley and other tage sparkling wines are made Location: New Mexico peaches and a dash of sea salt. locations) with grapes harvested during a New Mexico isn’t a place • Cinzano Prosecco D.O.C Location: Loire Valley, single year. you’d expect to find a great, dry ($13 SRP) France sparkling wine. But Gruet has Location: Veneto, Italy Made with a blend of three Wine tasting notes been defying expectation for Cinzano is made from a blend grapes (70% chenin blanc, 15% Sparkling wines from decades, making crisp, delight- of glera, pinot bianco and char- chardonnay and 15% cabernet around the world fully dry sparkling wines like donnay grapes from the Veneto franc), this crisp, dry, spar• Domaine Bousquet Char- this rose of the desert. region of Italy. Great on its own kling wine has a wonderful, mat Brut ($13 Suggested Retail • Dibon Cava Brut Reserve or in such popular Italian cock- slightly nutty, clean finish Price) ($9.99 at Table & Vine) tails as an Aperol Spritz, this with hints of toasted almonds, Location: Mendoza, ArgenLocation: Penedes, Spain dry yet slightly fruity sparkling melted butter and rye toast. tina Another one of my favorwine has a slightly floral aroma Simply wonderful.

SEE WINE, PAGE E12 Another home run from one ite, affordable Spanish cavas, and flavor.

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WEEKEND

Menu

at Burger King drive-thru locations had declined over the past year.

Part of the “fix” is to be a menu redesign. In addition to reformatting drive-thru menu boards to make them easier for customers to use, Burger King will be reformulating some sandwiches to streamline the assembly and handling process.

Future traffic-building efforts at Burger King will include a refocusing on the Whopper, the brand’s signature sandwich, since executives at the company believe that product has not been given enough marketing emphasis of late.

CONTINUES FROM PAGE E8

Side dishes • With the Christmas holiday this year falling on a Saturday, more than a few local restaurants are opting to take a substantial Christmas break, closing down for the weekend of the 25th or even the whole week before Christmas.

The Blue Heron Restaurant in Sunderland has opted to be closed both Dec. 24 and 25.

In Williamstown, Mezze Bar + Bistro is closed through Dec. 29.

Similarly, the Salem Cross Inn in West Brookfield has shut down its dining room until Dec. 26, choosing to instead focus its resources on holiday functions and special events like its Fireplace Feasts.

Other operators, wanting to capture an extra bit of business, are offering lunch the week before Christmas.

The Eastside Grill in Northampton, for instance, has elected to open this week at 11:30 a.m. and will offer lunch straight through until dinner.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2021 | E9

The Student Prince Cafe and Fort Restaurant in Springfield presents a German New Year’s Eve on Dec. 31. The celebration will count down to 6 p.m., midnight in Munich, and features a Champagne toast and party favors. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

Tender Restaurant in Palmer are both serving their own version of a • This December, 30Boltwood, gingerbread martini. the restaurant in Amherst’s Inn On the nonalcoholic side, Red on Boltwood, has been featuring a Robin Gourmet Burgers & Brews holiday tea every Saturday afternoon. is featuring a Gingerbread Milkshake.

Served from noon until 4 p.m., the tea Made with soft serve ice cream spun includes scones, tea sandwiches and with milk, graham cracker crumbs, desserts. and gingerbread syrup, the shake Among the three-bite savory offeris garnished with whipped cream, ings are shrimp salad on a brioche roll, graham cracker crumbs, and a gingermarinated beets sandwiched between bread cookie. It will remain on Red sourdough bread, and lemon and dill- Robin’s menu through mid-January. cured salmon served on rye.

For dessert there is a cherry almond • Data from reservations site financier as well as two classic English OpenTable suggest that the upcomsweets — Eton Mess (strawberries, ing New Year’s Eve may prove to be a meringue, and whipped cream) and celebratory bonanza for restaurants.

Banofee pie, a sort of banana cream OpenTable reports that, as of mid-Deconstruct with caramel sauce encember, reservations for Dec. 31 are hancement. up 46% compared to the site’s 2019 The tea is $37, not including tax and bookings for that date. gratuity; reservations are required.

Of course, OpenTable’s numbers Contact 30Boltwood at 413-835may be a bit overstated, since the 2011 reservation app has added a considerable number of new client restaurants • Just as pumpkin-spice has over the last two years. That growth in become the unofficial flavor of fall, listings could account for much of the gingerbread increasingly dominates increase OpenTable has reported. the beverage flavor spectrum during Still, New Year’s Eve may well the holiday season. This December have the potential, from a restaurant two major chains have introduced perspective, to get 2022 off with to a gingerbread-flavored drink creations. rousing start.

Outback Steakhouse locations On Dec. 31, Champney’s Restauare featuring a Gingerbread Cookie rant at the Deerfield Inn in Deerfield Martini, a jumbo concoction that’s will be hosting a New Year’s Eve Day made with Absolut Vodka, Bailey’s “Kid’s Countdown to Noon.”

Irish Cream, and Kahlua; gingerbread The fun will start at 11:30 a.m. and cookies “replace” the olive as garnish. will include Tom Carroll with live Locally the Shortstop Bar and “kid’s music.” A countdown to the Grill in Westfield and the Steaming noon hour will be part of the experi-

ence, with a cider toast to welcome in 2022.

The restaurant’s full lunch and kids menu will be available during the event. Reservations are suggested, and they can be made by calling Champney’s at 413-774-5587.

A different slant on celebrating New Year’s Eve is being offered this year when the Student Prince Cafe and Fort Restaurant in Springfield presents a German New Year’s Eve on Dec. 31.

The restaurant will ring in 2022 with a Champagne toast and party favors, but will do so on German time. Thus the Student Prince “German” celebration will count down to 6 p.m., which will be midnight in Munich and Berlin. What results will be a fun-filled celebration, but an early night.

Reservations are suggested and can be made by calling the restaurant at 413-734-7475.

• Long the No. 2 player in the fast food burger segment, Burger King has lost ground over the past 24 months, falling into third place behind the Wendy’s Corp.

Burger King and its parent company, Restaurant Brands International, have been developing a strategy to recapture the second place standing.

Top management has been reshuffled, and the chain has committed itself to spending more on training and quality control personnel.

One major area of concern is drive-thru operations; an in-depth audit revealed that customer throughput

• Casa di Lisa in Feeding Hills is hosting Kimberly-Ann Wright, a psychic and medium, on Jan. 6.

Wright’s appearance is in conjunction with a dinner event. Tickets for the evening are $50 and can be purchased by calling the restaurant at 413-786-1900.

• In the wake of mid-December’s successful unionization push at a Starbucks store in Buffalo, New York, activist employees at two Starbucks locations in the Boston area, one in Allston and a second in Brookline, announced that they had begun the process of unionizing.

Individuals at those two stores have quietly collected enough employee signature cards to request a National Labor Relations Board-supervised recognition vote.

Back in Buffalo, Starbucks Workers United, the group that led the successful union effort, has begun organizing three more stores in that market.

Hardball is typically the name of the game during unionization efforts, and Starbucks Workers United is claiming that they’re experiencing aggressive company pushback at the newly targeted locations.

Of course, winning a representation vote is only the first step in the process of unionization. Starbucks corporate and Starbucks Workers United, which is an independent affiliate of Service Employees International Union (SEIU), will now have to sit down and negotiate a contact, a process that is likely to prove long and contentious.

The success of organizing efforts at Starbucks may ultimately hinge on just how sympathetic to union demands Starbucks customers prove to be.

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

WEEKEND

E10 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2021

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

CALENDAR

Events

a.m.-12 p.m. and 1-4 p.m.. Closed 12-1 p.m. for cleaning each day; Sat. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1-4 p.m.; Sun.- 12-4 p.m. (two slots). Closed Christmas Eve day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Admission: $8, seniors (62+) $5; children under 1 year of age and members are free. 444 Dwight St., Holyoke or childrensmuseumholyoke.org.

THURSDAY Bright Nights at Forest Park: Thu.-Sun, Forest Park. Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 5-9 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 5-11 p.m.; Sun. 5-9 p.m. Holidays 5-11 p.m. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Tickets available online at brightnights.org, $23 per car, $35 limousine; $80 mini buses (seating capacity of 17-31); $175 buses (seating capacity 31+). Sumner Avenue, Springfield.

Connecticut Science Center: Permanent exhibit: Hands-on, interactive experiences with over 150 exhibits in ten galleries and a range of topics, including space and earth sciences plus more.

Hours: Tues.-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: adults $24.90; seniors (65+) $22.95; children ages 3-17 $16.95; free for members.

“Mummies of the World” exhibition, through December. 250 Columbus Boulevard, Hartford or ctsciencecenter.org.

Christmas To-Go Meals Event: Thu, 1-3 p.m., Springfield Rescue Mission. Drive through or walk up to receive free Christmas meals served in to-go containers for the whole family. 10 Mill St., Springfield.

Holiday Stream of STREB Extreme Action Company’s 2021 Dance Festival: Thu.-Sun, online, featuring performance and behind the scenes content. The stream will be available through Jan. 6.

Tickets are $15 and are available at jacobspillow.org/events/holiday-stream-streb.

Six Flags Holiday in the Park: Thu.Sun, Six Flags New England. Open on various days, for more information or to purchase tickets visit sixflags.com/newengland, $14.99 per person. 1623 Main St., Agawam.

413-786-9300 or sixflags.com/ newengland. For information about the drive-thru event, visit sixflags. com/newengland.

Sweet Honey in the Rock: Celebrating the Holy Days (On-Demand): Thu.-Sun, BOMBYX Center for Arts & Equity, This concert will be available on-demand through Jan. 6. bombyx.live/events/sweethoney-in-the-rock, $15. 130 Pine St., Florence; Tangle Chocolate Pop-Up!: Thu, 4-7 p.m.; Fri, noon-3 p.m.; Sun, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., The Hotel Northampton. Pop-Up features handmade 9-calorie fine chocolate slivers and other fine chocolate and gifts. 36 King St., Northampton; 413-5843100 or hotelnorthampton.com.

FRIDAY Bright Nights at Forest Park: See Thursday listing Christmas Eve Caroling: Fri, 8 p.m., First Church of Christ Longmeadow.

Join outside on the front steps of the church for caroling in the candlelight. All are welcome. Free. 763 Longmeadow St., Longmeadow.

Holiday Stream of STREB Extreme Action Company’s 2021 Dance Festival: See Thursday listing Six Flags Holiday in the Park: See Thursday listing

“Temple of Piscis” is one of the displays in the “Gingerbread: Under the Sea” exhibit at The Springfield Museums, which runs through Jan. 2. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN) Sweet Honey in the Rock: Celebrating the Holy Days (On-Demand): See Thursday listing Tangle Chocolate Pop-Up!: See Thursday listing

SATURDAY Bright Nights at Forest Park: See Thursday listing Holiday Stream of STREB Extreme Action Company’s 2021 Dance Festival: See Thursday listing Six Flags Holiday in the Park: See Thursday listing Sweet Honey in the Rock: Celebrating the Holy Days (On-Demand): See Thursday listing

SUNDAY Bright Nights at Forest Park: See Thursday listing Holiday Stream of STREB Extreme Action Company’s 2021 Dance Festival: See Thursday listing Six Flags Holiday in the Park: See Thursday listing Sweet Honey in the Rock: Celebrating the Holy Days (On-Demand): See Thursday listing Tangle Chocolate Pop-Up!: See Thursday listing

Quadrangle Dr. Seuss Sculpture Garden: Dr. Seuss National Memorial, an outdoor sculpture garden of

larger-than-life bronze statues of Springfield native Dr. Seuss at his drawing board surrounded by some of his most beloved characters including Horton the Elephant, the Grinch, the Lorax and others, free on the green.

George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum: Permanent exhibit: “Ancient Treasures,” a display of artifacts from ancient China, Greece, Rome and Egypt. Handson making activities in the Hasbro Games Art Discovery Center.

Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History: “Splash and Bubbles: Dive in, Lend a Fin!” Interactive exhibit runs through Jan. 16. Permanent exhibit: more than two dozen Indian motorcycles and related memorabilia.

Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts: “Ai Weiwei: Tradition and Dissent,” through Jan. 2 in the Wheeler and Barn Galleries. “Capturing Our Worlds,” works by the Springfield Photographic Society, through June 26. “The Body Adorned: Artistry and Legacy of the Ancient Americas,” through Feb. 27.

Springfield Science Museum: “Cut ‘N’ Rough Collection,” through June in Mineral Hall. “Gingerbread Under the Sea,” annual Gingerbread exhibition, through Jan. 2.

The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum: The first floor exhibition provides opportunities to explore new sounds and vocabulary, play rhyming games, invent stories, and engage in activities that encourage

teamwork and creative thinking, with interactive three-dimensional exhibits. The second floor contains Geisel’s personal memorabilia, including never before publicly displayed art, the original Geisel Grove sign which used to hang in Forest Park, and furniture from Ted’s sitting room and studio, including his drawing board and armchair. Timed tickets required, for reservations visit springfieldmuseums.org.

Quadrangle admission: $25 for adults, $16.50 for seniors (60+) and college students with ID, $13 for children ages 3-17; free to children under age 3 and members, Springfield residents are free with proof of residency. Welcome Center and Museum store. Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Museums Amelia Park Children’s Museum: Sign up online for a play session at ameliaparkmuseum.org. Hours: Mon, Thurs, Fri, Sun. 10 a.m.-noon and 1-3 p.m. Open for groups on Tues. and Wed. Admission: Children and adults $8; Seniors (62+) $5; Children under 1 year of age and members are free. Military Personnel & Teachers: Receive a 10% discount off the price of your regular admission. Members and infants are free. 29 South Broad St., Westfield or ameliaparkmuseum.org.

Children’s Museum at Holyoke:H ours: Tues, Wed, Thurs, and Fri. 9

Connecticut Trolley Museum: “Winterfest and the Tunnel of Lights,” runs through Dec. 19, Fri.-Sun. 5-9 p.m. Additionally the museum will be open from Dec. 26-30. Halls are decked both inside and outside. Closed trolley cars transport guests down a tunnel of lights as they sing traditional Christmas Carols. Admission: $15$20 per person and all ticket sales must be made in advance online, 58 North Road, East Windsor or cttrolley.org.

Edith Wharton: The Mount: “Nighwood: An Outdoor Sound and Light Experience.” Through Dec. 31, Thurs.-Sun. evenings starting at 5 p.m. NightWood combines music, lighting and theatrical elements to create seven unique scenes that evoke feelings of wonder, mystery and magic. Book now at EdithWharton.org. $20 adults, $10 children (5-18), free for children 5 and under. Holiday House Tours, Sat.-Sun, through Jan. 2. Tours are self-guided. Book online at EdithWharton.org. 2 Plunkett St., Lenox or edithwharton.org.

Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art: Everyday art Project: “Shaping Creatures.” Through Jan. 20, in the art studio. Free with museum admission. “Color \ Joy \ Eric Carle.” Through March 6.

Included with general admission.

Gabrielle Healy Carroll Storytime Programs are held Tues. and Fri. 10:30 a.m.; Sat. 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.; Sun. 2 p.m., free with admission. “The Undefeated: An Exhibition of Original Paintings”

by Kadir Nelson. Through April 3.

Purchasing museum admission in advance on Eventbrite is highly recommended, as visitor capacity is reduced. “I Could Do That!” The Picture Book Art of Ed Emberley, Through June 12. Virtual gallery SEE CALENDAR, PAGE E11

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WEEKEND

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2021 | E11

Calendar

hours: Thurs.-Sun, 3-8 p.m.; Dec. 24, 31, 3-5:30 p.m., closed Christmas day. 28 Amity St., Amherst 413-256-4250.

CONTINUES FROM PAGE E10

Grubbs Gallery: Jeff Stauder “The Reckoning.” Through Jan. 5; Gallery hours are weekdays from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and on Sat. 1-5 p.m. Williston Northampton asks that all visitors are fully vaccinated and mask while indoors. williston.com/visual-and-performing-arts/grubbs-gallery. 19 Payson Ave., Easthampton.

talk with Caleb Neelon, Jan. 27, 7-8 p.m. Neelon will give virtual tour of the “I Could do that!” Hours: Thurs.-Fri. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun. noon-4 p.m. $6, $9, $22.50 for a family of four.

125 West Bay Road, Amherst or carlemuseum.org.

Holyoke Merry-Go-Round: Hours: Sat.-Sun. noon-4 p.m. Cost: $3.50 ride or 4/$10. 221 Appleton St., Holyoke or holyokemerrygoround.org.

Mead Art Museum: Permanent exhibit: various American and European paintings, Mexican ceramics, Tibetan scroll paintings and more. Museum hours: Tues.Thurs. and Sun. 9 a.m.-midnight; Fri. 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. free, 220 South Pleasant St., Amherst or amherst.edu.

Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame: Permanent exhibit: three floors with dozens of handson exhibits, a regulation sized basketball court and more than 900 artifacts on display. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $28 adults (16-24); $23 seniors (63+); $19 youth (515); $23 students with valid high school or college ID. free for ages under 5, 1000 West Columbus Ave., Springfield or hoophall.com.

New England Air Museum: Permanent exhibit: The restored F-104 Starfighter, vintage planes, gift shop, hands-on activities. Admission: $12.50, $7 children 4-11, free for children 3 and under free, and $11.50 seniors 65+. Christmas Vacation Week is Dec. 26 - 30.

All activities are included with museum admission and schedules are subject to change. For more information, visit neam.org. 36 Perimeter Road, Windsor Locks.

Norman Rockwell Museum: Hours: Thurs.-Mon. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Advance tickets purchase required.

Admission: $20 adults; $18 seniors, AAA, retire military; $10 college students, free children ages 18 and under, members and active military. “Jan Brett: Stories Near and Far.” Through Jan. 2. Included with general admission. December School Vacation Week, Dec. 26-31, advance admission tickets at nrm. org. Included with admission, free for children, teens, and members, 9 Route 183, Stockbridge or nrm.org.

Old Sturbridge Village: OSV Holiday Market and Cafe: Wed.-Sun, through Dec. 30. Admission to the museum is not required. Visit osv. org for more information. Hours: Wed.-Sun. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. $24, $22 seniors, $8 children 3-17, free for children under 3. “New England on Parade” exhibit through July

Holyoke Community College: The 2021 HCC Visual Art Faculty Exhibition can be viewed online now through the end of the 2021.

Visit the exhibit at hcc.edu/ taber-faculty21. 303 Homestead Avenue, Holyoke or hcc.edu.

Indian Orchard Mills Dane Gallery: Hours: Sat. noon-4 p.m. or by appointment. 34 Front St., Indian Orchard 413-543-3321.

Six Flags New England Holiday in the Park Lights is open weekends through Jan. 2, 4 to 9 p.m., with a drive-thru component open Monday through Friday from 5 to 9 p.m. (FREDERICK GORE PHOTO) Amherst or yiddishbook center.org.

Galleries A.P.E. Gallery: Hours: Tues.-Thurs. noon-5 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. noon-8 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 p.m. “Flat File” exhibition. Through Dec. 18, reception, Friday. 126 Main St., Northampton or apearts.org.

Old Sturbridge Village’s Christmas by Candlelight runs today and Dec. 27-30. See more information at osv.org.

2023, included with general admission. Christmas by Candlelight on select dates in December the village will open with special hours, 1 p.m. or 3 p.m. until 8 p.m., to take in sights, sounds and special traditions of holidays long ago. Tickets are on sale now. Tickets: $28 for adults, $14 children, children 3 and under free. Route 20, Sturbridge or osv.org.

Springfield Armory National Historic Site: Ranger-led interpretive programs offered in the museum in the afternoon. Junior Ranger programs conducted frequently each day. Hours: Wed.-Sun, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. 1 Armory Square, Springfield or nps.gov/spar.

Titanic Museum: Exhibits from the collection of the International Titanic Historical Society. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $4, $2 children and students, 208 Main St., Indian Orchard or titanic1.org.

University Museum of Contem-

porary Art - Fine Arts Center: Exhibits are available online, visit fac.umass.edu/UMCA/Online/.

151 Presidents Drive, Amherst.

Volleyball Hall of Fame: The museum is only open Sat.-Sun. from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Docent-led tours are not available. Online ticket purchasing strongly recommended. Visitors are required to wear masks. Admission: $2.50-$3.50, 444 Dwight St., Holyoke or volleyhall.org.

Wistariahurst Museum: “Wisteria Vines in Full Bloom,” Carriage House and Gift shop open Sat.Sun, Mon. noon-4 p.m. Historic house tours are $7, and $5 for students and seniors. 238 Cabot St., Holyoke or wistariahurst.org.

Yiddish Book Center: Permanent exhibit, “A Velt mit veltelekh: The Worlds of Jewish Culture.” Hours: Thurs, Fri, Sun, and Mon. from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: $8 adults, $6 seniors, free for members, students and children, 1021 West St.,

Amy H. Carberry Fine Arts Gallery: Hours: Tues.-Fri. 12:30-4:30 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. First floor of building 28. 1 Armory Square, Springfield 413-755-5258.

Anchor House of Artists: “Labyrinth for Modern Eyes” Single-line compositions by Jonathan Stark, through Dec. 31, anchorhouseartists.org. “Any Resemblance?” exploring Michael TIllyer, through Dec. 31. “Birth Wheel (Happenstance).” An interactive installation and show of cards by Amy Johnquest, through Dec. 31.

“Big Music: Charles Miller Jazz Paintings,” Dec. 23-24, 28-31; Tues.-Sat, Jan. 4-22, 1-6 p.m. Jan. 14 will include a performance from the original performers depicted in the artwork. The musicians will perform live at the gallery but the performance will be broadcast live on Instagram. $10 suggested contribution. instagram.com/ anchorhouse_artists. 518 Pleasant St., Northampton.

Forbes Library: “Canary in the Coal Mine” an exhibition by Zea Mays Printmaking. Through Dec. 30. 20 West St., Northampton or forbeslibrary.org.

Gallery A3 Amherst Art Alliance: Small Wonders Holiday Show and Sale, through Dec. 31. Holiday

Robert Floyd Photo Gallery and Learning Center: “20th Annual Women in History” photo contest and exhibit, runs through Jan. 2.

Gallery hours: Sun. Tues. and Wed. 1-5 p.m. and by appointment. 2 East St., Southampton 413-5292635.

William Baczek Fine Arts: Winter Show 2021-2022 runs through Jan. 29, highlights the work of gallery artists. See more information at wbfinearts.com/index.php. 36 Main St., Northampton or wbfinearts.com.

Outdoors Story Walk: “Thanks to the Animals,” through Jan. 4. “Quack!

Quack! A Self-Guided Duck Investigation Station.” Through Jan. 2.

Enjoy scavenger hunts, quizzes, and crafts in the Great Hall at a self-guided investigation station all about ducks. A variety of activities for different ages will be available.

Great Hall Exhibit: “Junior Duck Stamps: Connecting Youth with Nature through Science and Art.” Through Jan. 2. 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls or greatfallsma.org.

Natural Bridge State Park: Visitors Center exhibits open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., year round; explore the park story through displays, artifacts and scavenger hunts. $2 parking fee; programs are free, 107 McAuley Road, North Adams.

The Republican is not responsible for unannounced schedule changes.

Listings must be received two weeks before the date of the event. Items should be mailed to: Entertainment Guide, The Republican, P.O. Box 1329, Springfield, MA 01102-1329; emailed to pmastriano@repub.com; or submitted to masslive.com/myevents

E12 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2021

Wine CONTINUES FROM PAGE E8

• Le Grand Courtage Brut ($17.99 at Table & Vine) Location: Burgundy, France Made in Burgundy with grapes from several French wine regions, this crisp, flinty refreshing sparkling wine more than held its own against many higher-priced wines. Love the finish on this great, affordable wine.

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Champagne • Jean Vesselle Brut Reserve Champagne ($39.99 at Provision in Northampton) Location: Champagne, France Absolutely fell in love with this charming Champagne that I tried recently for the first time.

The first thing that grabbed my attention is its slightly floral aroma. Taste-wise, this Champagne has a classic, crisp nutty flavor with hints of roasted almonds and toasted butter.

Absolutely enchanting.

• Bruno Paillard Extra Brut Premiere Cuvee ($60 SRP) Location: Champagne, France This distinct Champagne has a lighter, smoother finish than many others. Instead of having a slightly nutty or toasty finish, this Champagne from the charming village of Reims has a more melted butter-like finish with hints of pear and milk chocolate.

• Louis Roederer Champagne Collection 242 ($60 SRP) Location: Champagne, France The name of this wine comes from the fact that this is the 242nd blended Champagne created by Louis Roederer since this Champagne house (that’s what many wineries are called in Champagne) was founded in 1776. Made with a blend of 42% chardonnay, 36% pinot noir and 22% meunier, this aromatic Champagne has a subtle, elegant finish with hints of almonds and pears.

• Lanson Le Black Label Brut NV ($44.99 at Table & Vine) Location: Champagne, France Crisp with mineral-like flavors, this understated Champagne has an earthy, robust

flavor with flinty notes and a refined finish. And while this Champagne tastes great on its own, it also goes great with a wide range of foods.

• Moet & Chandon Brut Imperial Champagne ($49.99 at Table & Vine) Location: Champagne, France Another consistently great Champagne house, Moet & Chandon excels at producing dry, crisp, refreshing Champagnes — many of which cost less than $50 a bottle. Its flagship Champagne, I am constantly impressed by the quality and consistency of the Brut Imperial Champagne, which is filled with fascinating flavors and enticing aromas, including roasted almonds, fresh peach and a hint of cherry mixed with honey.

• Laurent Perrier Non Vintage Brut ‘La Cuvee’ Champagne ($49 SRP) Location: Champagne, France One of my favorite champagne producers, Laurent Perrier has been making great Champagne since 1812.

I could have easily picked several other Laurent Perrier Champagnes (including their “Brut Nature,” another outstanding one) but I decided to recommend this one since it’s affordable, readily available and delicious. Its flavors are crisp, dry, slightly nutty (think roasted almonds) and refreshing.

• Taittinger Brut La Francaise Non Vintage Champagne ($49.99 at Table & Vine) Location: Champagne, France Along with Laurent Perrier, Taittinger produces several outstanding Champagnes at a wide range of prices. Honestly, I have never had a bad bottle of Taittinger champagne. They’re all dry, crisp, refreshing and bursting with flavor. Its Brut La Francaise champagne has a wonderful, crisp, refreshing finish with toasted nut flavors, along with a dash of melted butter. It is a great Champagne produced by true artists since 1734.

Wine Press by Ken Ross appears on Masslive.com every Monday and in The Republican’s weekend section every Thursday.

WEEKEND

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