Weekend - January 26, 2023

For the latest listings of WMass events, go online to masslive.com/entertainment

Weekend

LIVEWIRE: ‘Dark Side of the Moon’ turns 50, E3

WINE PRESS: 3 outstanding, affordable red wines from Lirac, E6

CALENDAR: Events at museums, galleries in WMass, E8

All aboard for Railroad Hobby Show

PLUS Ghost tour shares tales of Ventfort Hall’s hauntings

Two-day event will feature model railroads, art, entertainment, Page E2

All aboard for Railroad Hobby Show

Two-day event will feature model railroads, art, entertainment

By C ori U rban Special to The Republican

THE RAILROAD HOB-

by Show — the largest railroad-themed trade show in America — will be pulling into the Eastern States Exposition for a two-day event.

The weekend show is on track to feature operating model railroads, railroad art and photography, railroad books and videos, model railroad clinics, family entertainment, information on tourist railroads and “railroadiana.”

“Anything and everything

that has do to with railroads” can be seen at the show, said John Sacerdote, Railroad Hobby Show director. “This is rapidly becoming known as the ‘bucket-list show.’”

Pre-COVID-19 shows drew as many as 25,000 visitors from throughout the world.

The Railroad Hobby Show is an annual event sponsored by the Amherst Railway Society.

Major railroad publications and model railroad manufacturers attend the show, and many use the Railroad Hobby Show to introduce new products.

Highlights of the 2023 show are to include a large modular model railroad, Maggie the Railroad Clown stage shows, long freight trains on the

IF YOU GO

Event: Railroad Hobby

Show

When: Saturday and Sunday

Where: Eastern States Exposition Fairgrounds, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield

Tickets: Adults, $15 per day; children 15 and under, free accompanied by an adult

For more information: Online, railroadhobbyshow. com

ter, an attempt to assemble a record-size layout and scale models of visitors from using a full-body scanning and printing system.

The scale models are “the absolute spitting image of you, and you can then put yourself in your own model railroad,” Sacerdote explained. The models are 1 to 4 inches high, depending on the scale.

Dry Hill Model Railroad, an operating steam locomotive outside the Better Living Cen-

Pre-show clinics will take place today and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the

Sheraton Monarch Hotel. The in-person clinics with experienced instructors provide insights into the latest modeling techniques and inspiration for new modeling ideas.

Among the clinic topics are American Flyer repair, designing prototypical lighting, Hershey and the Reading Railroad, North American

signaling, reality and model railroading, paint and glues and waterfalls.

Since 1991, proceeds from the Railroad Hobby Show have enabled the Amherst Railway Society to donate nearly $1 million to railroad restoration and preservation projects throughout the

A model steam engine is shown on display at a past Railroad Hobby Show at the Eastern States Exposition. The two-day event rolls back into West Springfield this weekend. (STEVEN E. NANTON PHOTO)

Winston Booher, of West Springfield, checks out trains from Thomas and Friends at a past show. (STEVEN E. NANTON PHOTO)

“This is rapidly becoming known as the ‘bucket-list show.’”

John

Sacerdote, Railroad Hobby Show

director

MUSIC

‘Dark Side of the Moon’ turns 50

The album’s first single is “Tropic Morning News,” co-written with lead singer Matt Berninger’s wife, Carin Besser

• TikTok is a social media platform mostly geared to Generation Z. But that didn’t stop The Rolling Stones from joining in the fun.

The iconic rock band recently joined the platform, meaning that their catalog of music is now available for users to employ as backing tracks for video posts.

The band’s page comes with a guest playlist featuring 44 tracks, including “Angie,” “Beast Of Burden” and other hits.

Nightclubs

THURSDAY

Doc’s Place: Karaoke. 1264 Granby Road, Chicopee

Southwick Inn: Open mic hosted by Steve Piper of Roadhouse Band. 479 College Highway, Southwick

The Drake: Dustbowl Revival. 44 North Pleasant St., Amherst

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

Delaney House: Piper Hopkins. 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke

PINK FLOYD WILL release a new boxed set to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their renowned album, “The Dark Side of the Moon.”

The collection will drop on March 24 and will include the first standalone release of “Live at Wembley Empire Pool, London, 1974,” a newly remastered version of the album and a 50th anniversary photo book. The photo book will also be released separately.

The boxed set will also feature some replica singles, surround sound and Dolby Atmos mixes for DVD and Blu-Ray, and a 76-page music book.

Liner notes

• Father John Misty will play the Academy of Music in Northampton on April 23.

The show will mark a year since the release of “Chloë and The Next 20th Century,” Misty’s fifth album and his first new material since the release of “God’s Favorite Customer” in 2018.

The artist was discovered by Seattle singer-songwriter Damien Jurado, whom Misty started opening for in the early 2000s.

Tickets are $49.50 to $69.50.

Northampton on April 23.

• Former Oasis guitarist and songwriter Noel Gallagher has announced that an upcoming album from his new band, High Flying Birds, will drop

on June 2.

The album, “Council Skies,” will be Gallagher’s fourth solo studio album. The album also features performances from Johnny Marr on three tracks. Gallagher described the album in a news release: “It’s going back to the beginning. Daydreaming, looking up at the sky and wondering about what life could be … that’s as true to me now as it was in the early ‘90s. When I was growing up in poverty and unemployment, music took me out of that, Top of the Pops on TV transformed your Thursday night into this fantasy world, and that’s what I think music should be. I want my music to be elevating and transforming in some way.”

• The National announced their ninth studio album, “First Two Pages of Frankenstein” will be released on April 28.

The new album, the follow-up to 2019′s “I Am Easy to Find,” will feature contributions from Taylor Swift, Sufjan Stevens, and Phoebe Bridgers

The band will then tour behind the album beginning in May. Support acts on the tour will include Patti Smith, Soccer Mommy and the Beths.

Lead singer Mick Jagger also opened a personal account on the app. Guitarist Keith Richards has been on the platform since 2021. TikTok has now made #TheRollingStones the official hashtag for the group.

Doc’s Place: Karaoke. 1264 Granby Road, Chicopee

East Mountain Country Club: Karaoke with Kris Sanders. 1458 East Mountain Rd, Westfield

Marigold Theater: Peter J. Newland & RadioX, Lonesome Brothers with Jim Armenti and Ray Mason. 84 Cottage St.,

SEE NIGHTCLUBS, PAGE E9

Hibernian IRISH NIGHT in HOLYOKE is Back at The Log Cabin for 2023!

Featuring the Four piece Band of KEOHANNE AND KENNEALLYA TOUR DE FORCE OF MUSICAL TALENT (Irish Folk Music, Classical Rock,, and Country).

Also featured, is a TRADITIONAL CORNED BEEF AND CABBAGE DINNER AND RIBS prepared by the Log Cabin.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 25, 2023

doors open at 5 p, dinner at 6:30p. Tickets are $40.00 per person. Reservations required by February 20, 2023 by calling Joe O’Connor @413-627-7148 or Fran Hennessey @ 413-785-5687 or by going online at Eventbrite.com.

Additional entertainment will be by THE CASSIN SCHOOL OF IRISH DANCE AND PIPER MATT O’CONNOR of the Springfield Kiltie Band.

Be sure not to miss the Giant Raffle of Baskets!

The event will benefit the Maurice A. Donahue Memorial Scholarship and is in honor of the late Hibernian Daniel P. Curran.

Father John Misty performs June 22, 2019, at The Met in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The singer will play the Academy of Music in

Roger Waters performs the music of Pink Floyd and solo material at Portland’s Moda Center in 2017. Pink Floyd will mark the 50th anniversary of “Dark Side of the Moon” with the release of a boxed set in March.

George Lenker LiveWire

Ghost tour will share haunting tales of Ventfort Hall

By C ori U rban

Special to The Republican

EXPERIENCES OF BEing touched when no other person is nearby. Hearing voices when no one else is in the house. The smell of strong perfume or cigar smoke, again when there are no other people in the house.

These are some of the experiences people relate regarding hauntings at Ventfort Hall.

“Numerous guests have experienced paranormal activity during ghost hunts and tours,” said Linda L. Rocke, marketing director at Ventfort Hall, a Jacobean Revival-style mansion built in 1893 and home of the

IF YOU GO

Event: Ghost tour at Ventfort Hall

When: Saturday, 4 p.m.

Where: Ventfort Hall, 104 Walker St., Lenox

Tickets: $30

For more information: Call 413-637-3206

Museum of the Gilded Age.

On Saturday at 4 p.m. Robert E. Oakes, author of “Ghosts of the Berkshires,” will lead visitors through the rooms and halls of this historic estate, sharing tales of its hauntings.

(A 7 p.m. tour was sold out as of Monday.)

“I believe that hauntings involve a range of experiences

that can be hard to understand and describe, but nevertheless, many people have had,” he said. “It can be the sensation of an unseen presence, a ‘gut feeling’ or intuition or something more tangible that comes through the senses — a sound, a smell, a touch, or even a vision of some kind. It seems to me that certain places are especially likely to inspire feelings like this, and I think Ventfort

Hall is one of those places. What exactly it is, I don’t know. But I do believe there’s something there.”

During the tour, he will tell guests about unusual experiences that members of the museum staff, volunteers and visitors have shared with him. These include whispered voices, the sound of piano, lights that seem to turn themselves off, the feeling of

being touched, a gravelly voice calling to a guide from the third floor (which is unrestored and off limits) and the appearance of apparitions, as well as evidence captured by paranormal investigators and the experiences of psychics who have visited the estate.

According to Rocke, people are interested in hauntings for a variety of reasons — some for spiritual connections, some for curiosity, some like the history behind the locations they go to for tours and investigations or maybe because the popularity of television shows about paranormal activity lead them to seek local venues. Ventfort Hall ghost tours are so popular, they are offered almost every month. The venue also has offered ghost tours for children under 12 with Oakes that are popular; more are planned during February school vacation. There are three paranormal investigations (ghost hunts) three times a year with David Raby (theshadowswithin. com).“Some (people) love

country and to local charities including Baystate Children’s Hospital and a Connecticut autism group. The show will be in the Better Living Center

and the adjacent Young, Stroh and Mallary buildings at The Eastern States Exposition Fairgrounds, home of the Big E, in West Springfield. There will be a steam locomotive running on about 100 feet of track and visitors can board it and blow the steam whistle. For many

it’s a thrill to blow the whistle for the first time. There is so much to look forward to about the show, Sacerdote said. “It’s the experience of it all” like seeing people there who have become friends and maintaining “mini traditions” like going to a certain restaurant with a

certain group of fellow railroad enthusiasts.

Hours for the Railroad Hobby Show are Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tickets for adults are $15 per day; children 15 and under are free accompanied by an adult. Eastern States Exposition

parking is $5 per day. Tickets will be sold on the grounds beginning one hour before the show opens on each day of the show. For information and advance tickets go to railroadhobbyshow.com. Learn more about the Amherst Railway Society at amherstrail.org.

Catherine Geren speaks to visitors from inside Monson Railroad Engine 3 of Maine Narrow Gauge Railway Historical Museum in Portland, Maine. The steam engine was on display during a past Railroad Hobby Show. (STEVEN E. NANTON PHOTO)

Ventfort Hall in Lenox will be host to a ghost tour with author Robert E. Oakes on Saturday at 4 p.m.

SEE GHOSTS, PAGE E9

Robotics, AI answer dishwasher shortage in restaurants

ASK A RESTAURAteur what position can be the biggest headache to fill, and you’re likely to be surprised by the response. The answer is often not a high-skilled job like manager or chef, but that of lowly dishwasher.

The traditional first rung on the restaurant industry’s career ladder, dishwasher has, thanks to the decadelong decline in the teenage workforce population, become a chronic staffing headache for sit-down dining operations. The work of dishwasher is hot, messy, and decidedly unglamorous; in a tight labor market those seeking entry level jobs have more attractive options.

A restaurant can operate “one-man-down” if a waiter or line cook doesn’t show, but unfilled dishwasher positions can make it nearly impossible for a table service eatery to do business.

Now, however, a combination of robotics and artificial intelligence promises a technology-based solution to the dishwasher shortage. Nala Robotics, an Arlington, Illinois-based company that specializes in the automation of culinary systems, has

introduced Spotless, the robot dishwasher.

Designed for high-volume operations, Spotless is, according to its designers, able to process dirty dishware from cleaning to storage, ready for reuse, with a speed that will eventually rival or exceed that of the most productive of human dishwasher operatives.

Spotless begins the dishwashing process by giving an item of tableware a quick rinse or scrape to remove food waste. The system then uses a camera to recognize the item and accesses a library of algorithms that direct how its robotic arm further handles that plate, glass, or utensil.

Spotless requires a relatively compact operational foot

print; the technology, which has already been deployed in several non-commercial kitchens, is leased from Nala

on a monthly basis. Current Spotless prototype installations operate in conjunction with a human

“collaborator,” but Nala is confident the technology, thanks to machine learning,

Champney’s Restaurant & Tavern, at the Deerfield Inn, 81 Old Main St. in Deerfield, will be host to an Adult Cider and Food Pairing event Feb. 4 from 6 to 9 p.m. The evening will feature fermented ciders of West County Cider, a Colrain-based operation (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

The Delaney House in Holyoke will host a Wine & Dine event Feb. 2. The event will feature wines from the McPrice Myers Winery of Paso Robles, Calif., a label not yet available in East Coast retail outlets. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

Hugh Robert Off The Menu

COVID still casts shadow on beer events

IDON’T KNOW ABOUT you, but I am exhausted by COVID. And COVIDrelated stories. And debates about it.

But my mental and emotional fatigue about the subject doesn’t change the harsh reality we are still facing.

As I noted in my column last week about trends from 2022, COVID is still haunting the craft beer world in various ways. Although the early lockdown measures — which first required bars to close down and then maintain pretty restrictive social distancing measures, as well as masking — have been pretty much done away with, the reality is that COVID’s many variants keep cropping up. Some are more dangerous and some are not quite as bad but more contagious. I would hate to have to choose between any of them.

But the reality is that the craft beer world has a pretty large stake in promoting social gatherings. Starting with simply meeting up with friends at pubs and breweries all the way up to beer festivals, people gathering together to enjoy beer is a staple of the industry.

I’ve been fairly careful over the past few years, starting with initially not going out at all to carefully picking my spots when I did. At some points I relaxed a little bit more, but usually tightened up my behavior when it felt necessary. I rely on my gut instinct, but I do so under the overarching umbrella of believing (and following) the science. There are a lot more folks who played a lot looser than me, and there are some folks who still follow stricter measures.

What prompted me to pursue this topic (again) today was the recent announcement that the 2023 Oregon Brewers Festival has been canceled.

3

This Waterfront Park festival, which brought in around 80,000 beer lovers at its peak, went dark in 2020 and 2021 (like most beer events). In a statement, festival organizers cited low attendance, higher costs and extreme weather as reasons for the cancellation of this year’s fest. But the statement also acknowledged “that’s far from an exhaustive list.”

While low attendance and higher costs are the symptoms of the problem, it would seem that COVID is the underlying cause. The statement went on to say “that the hospitality industry, which is at the core of our festival, is still working to recover from the effects of the pandemic.”

I hope everyone, not just beer drinkers, pauses for a moment and perhaps take one step back from where we are now. I’m not advocating any draconian lockdown measures, which would probably be ignored by many folks anyway; I am just gently suggesting that we make thoughtful and informed decisions when we decide to socialize. The past several years have been a rough ride, and it’s good to see things recovering to varying degrees.

But seeing the Oregon Brewers Festival get canceled made me blanch a bit. I have to think it might not be the only one.

Take care out there. Cheers.

outstanding, affordable red wines from Lirac

FRANCE’S SOUTHern Rhone region makes some of the best (and most affordable) blended red wines in the world.

Villages like ChateauneufDu-Pape and Gigondas consistently produce outstanding red wines made with a blend of grenache, syrah, mourvede and other popular wine grapes.

But don’t stop there. Go a little further afield and you’ll find many great wines from other nearby villages.

One of those villages is Lirac, which is located near Chateauneuf Du Pape on the other side of the Rhone River, just north of Avignon.

I first learned about Lirac wines when I was tasting wine at Domaine Roger Sabon four years ago in Chateauneuf Du Pape. Near the end of the tasting, the winery’s head winemaker, Didier Negron, opened a bottle of 2017 Lirac red wine.

I was blown away by how great the wine tasted. In my article about the winery, I wrote that I loved this particular Lirac wine, describing it as having a “soft, subtle finish

with hints of dried cherries, raspberries and almonds.”

I also wrote that Lirac “deserves far more attention,” especially because this outstanding wine cost only $7 in France at the time and less than $20 in the United States.

But I had a hard time finding Lirac wines when I returned home, so I was

WEDNESDAY

Polish American Citizens Club 355 East Street, Ludlow, 583-6385

Bingo Wednesdays 6:30-9:30pm

Doors Open at 4pm.

Minimum Admission $50

1 - 1199 Progressive w/ Climbing Consolation Prize

2 - $500 Cover Alls

3 - $200 Special Games

All Games will be $100 with 90 People or More

All Cards are included with Admission

THURSDAY

Fairview Knights of Columbus 1599 Memorial Drive, Chicopee (413) 532-2011

DOORS OPEN 4:30PM

MASKS OPTIONAL Progressive Jackpot 6:15pm Early Bird 6:20pm Start

Min. Entry Package $15 Electronic Bingo Aval. Snack Bar, Open Seating, Handicap Restrooms

CALL TODAY 413-788-1250

George Lenker Beer Nut

The three red wines from Lirac in France’s Rhone region recommended this week. (KEN ROSS PHOTO)

Ken Ross Wine Press SEE WINE, PAGE E7

Menu

CONTINUES FROM PAGE E5

will quickly evolve to be “human-free.” A video of Spotless in operation can be viewed at youtu.be/ Ckygln100k4

Nala Robotics has developed other robotic food service solutions such as Wingman, an automated deep-frying system, and PizzAIola, a robotic “chef” that can make pizza, burgers, and more.

Side dishes

• Reflecting shifts in several economic forces, restaurant menu price growth slowed in December, which was welcome news for food service operators and the general public alike.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that, across the industry, menu prices only rose 0.4% in December, a considerably smaller amount than November’s reported 1.1% uptick. Overall, restaurant menu prices increased 8.3% during 2022.

December price increases in full service restaurants averaged 0.1%, while prices at limited service restaurants inched up by 0.5% during the same period.

Among the factors cred-

Wine

CONTINUES FROM PAGE E6

reluctant to write about them.

Fortunately, four years later, Lirac wines are slowly becoming easier to find here. This week, you can learn more about three of them, along with Lirac wines in general.

Hope you enjoy.

• More about Lirac

People have been growing grapes and making wine in Lirac for thousands of years, according to the Rhone Wine Association. The village of Lirac (technically a “commune”) includes 1,960 acres of grapevines and just under 1,000 people. (Nearly 2 acres of wine for every resident! That’s my kind of town.)

Like several other well-

ited for holding down price increases were falling gasoline prices, slowing inflation in wholesale grocery and commodities markets, and a softening in the demand for labor.

The growth in restaurant labor costs continues to slow as more and more operators report being “staffed up,” a state of affairs that reduces the competition for employees and the consequent bidding up of wage rates a tight labor market causes.

• On Feb. 2, the Delaney House in Holyoke will hold a Wine & Dine event.

The four-course dinner, which will begin at 6 p.m., will feature wines from the McPrice Myers Winery of Paso Robles, California, a label not yet available in East Coast retail outlets.

A maple-rubbed pork shank will serve as starter course and will be followed by a beet-garnished spinach salad.

The centerpiece of the evening’s enjoyment is to be red wine braised short ribs; for dessert, a chocolate torte with berry coulis will be served.

Cost to attend is $69 plus tax and gratuity; reservations can be made online at delaneyhouse.com/wine-dinner

The Delaney House can be

known wine villages in the southern Rhone region — including Gigondas and Vacqueyras – Lirac wines were granted “cru” status in 1947. Only 13 villages in the Rhone region have received “cru” wine status, which means the wines are considered high-quality wines. Lirac also received AOC status, which simply means Lirac wines must come from Lirac and meet other standards set for Lirac wines. (More about that in a bit.)

• Types of Lirac wines

Like many southern Rhone villages, the vast majority of wines from Lirac (85% to be exact) are red wines. These wines tend to be full-bodied, earthy wines. But as my wine tasting notes explain below, there are a variety of flavors when it comes to Lirac red wines. That’s probably due to

reached at 413-532-1800.

• The Windsor Locks Lions Club will be sponsoring a special “Dining in the Dark” evening on Feb. 11, starting at 5 p.m.

To be held at the Skyline Restaurant in Windsor Locks, the meal is designed to give participants a chance enjoy food in a new, nonvisual way. Eye masks and bibs will be provided to each guest, and the lighting in the restaurant’s dining area will be reduced to minimal levels.

Dinner participants will be given four entrée options from which to choose, and the menu will also include salad and dessert.

Cost to attend is $35, and tables for eight to 10 can be reserved. Tickets are available online at forms.gle/pqi7iLfMFaMdPA8u9.

Contact Karen Doody at k.doodygirl@gmail.com for more information.

• Today, the Ludlow High School Culinary Team will be holding a fundraiser at Vanished Valley Brewing Company in Ludlow.

Organized to support the team’s participation in a national cook-off, the fundraiser will bring together team members and the kitchen staff at Vanished Valley in a joint

limestone rich soils found in many vineyards throughout Lirac. The remaining 15% of wines from Lirac include white wines (10% of annual production) and rose wines (5%).

• Common wine grapes

When it comes to southern Rhone red wines, three grapes consistently play a major role. Those three grapes are grenache, syrah and mourvedre, which are sometimes referred to by wine hipsters as “GSM.” The same is true for Lirac red wines, which also often include cinsault and sometimes carignan. In fact, in order for a Lirac red wine to have Lirac listed on its label, the wine must include at least 40% grenache as well as syrah and mourvedre grapes.

SEE WINE, PAGE E11

effort to prepare a created-for-the-occasion specialty, the Lion’s Pride Burger. A grilled Austin Acres ground beef patty topped with bacon jam, whiskey glaze, caramelized onions, and smoked gouda, all assembled on a brioche roll, the Lion’s Pride Burger will be served with a side of house fries.

The fundraiser will run from 3 to 9 p.m., with Vanished Valley donating a portion of all its taproom food sales during the event.

Vanished Valley Brewing Company answers at 413-6101572.

• Champney’s Restaurant and Tavern at the Deerfield Inn is offering the opportunity to enjoy a range of artisan ciders during its upcoming Adult Cider and Food Pairing event.

Planned for Feb. 4 from 6 to 9 p.m., the evening will feature fermented ciders of West County Cider, a Colrain-based operation. West County has a 35-year tradition of using the harvest from local orchards to produce critically-acclaimed small-batch ciders.

The kitchen staff at Champney’s has created a menu designed to harmonize with five different West County cider bottlings. Offerings

are to include a pumpkin cider bisque, assorted game sausages, grilled chicken & shrimp Alfredo, and an apple bread pudding.

Cost to attend this event is $95 plus tax and gratuity; reservations are required.

Contact Champney’s Restaurant and Tavern at 413-774-5587.

• The Skyline Beer Company in Westfield has organized a Winter Whisk(e)y Dinner for Feb. 6, starting at 3:30 p.m.

The four-course whisky and food pairing will be hosted by “Whisky Pirate” Jay Cole, who will be providing tasting notes during the event.

Tickets for the dinner are $60 plus tax and tip; they can be ordered online at skylinebeerco.com or picked up in person at Skyline’s Southwick Road location. Skyline Brewing Company answers at 413-378-3333.

• Participating Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar locations are currently offering three “all-you-careto-eat” entrée options.

All You Can Eat Boneless Wings come with a choice from among six different

THURSDAY

MGM Casino: Thu.-Sun., MGM Springfield, featuring retail stores, restaurants, Regal Cinemas and more. For more information, visit mgmspringfield.com, 1 MGM Way, Springfield.

“Native Gardens”: Thu., 7:30 p.m.; Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 8 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m., Majestic Theater, through Feb. 12. Tickets start at $29. 131 Elm St., West Springfield, 413-747-7797 or majestictheater. com

Square Dance Classes: Thu., 6:30 p.m., American Legion 0239, first two classes free, $5 further classes. For more information, contact Gloria at 413-467-3352 or email ladicaller@gogtt.ent, 66 State St., Belchertown.

FRIDAY

MGM Casino: See Thursday listing

“Native Gardens”: See Thursday listing

ROAR Comedy Club at MGM Springfield: Fri.-Sat., 8 p.m. MGM Springfield, Caitlin Peluffo in the Armory. For tickets, visit ticketmaster.com/artist/ 2952607?venueId=9264, $25. 1 MGM Way, Springfield.

SATURDAY

MGM Casino: See Thursday listing

“Native Gardens”: See Thursday listing

A Quiet Moment with Kamauu: Sat., 7 p.m., BOMBYX Center for Arts & Equity, $35. 130 Pine St., Florence.

Railroad Hobby Show: Sat., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Eastern States Exposition, Better Living Center, Young & Stroh Building, Mallary Complex. $15 adults; free for ages 15 and under. 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield, 413-737-2443 or thebige. com

ROAR Comedy Club at MGM Springfield: See Friday listing

SUNDAY

MGM Casino: See Thursday listing

“Native Gardens”: See Thursday listing

Railroad Hobby Show: See Saturday listing

Square Dancing Classes: Sun., 6:30-8 p.m., Union Church of Christ, first two classes free, further classes $5 per person. The instructor is Gloria Vivier. For more

information, call 413-467-3352. 51 Center St. (Route 21), Ludlow, 413-583-5717.

Quadrangle

Dr. Seuss Sculpture Garden: 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. Part of free family activities.

Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History: “The Grinch’s Grotto: A Wonderful, Awful Idea,” extended through Jan. 29. The Grotto is a cave-like structure with a highly decorated chair for the old curmudgeon himself to greet visitors for selfies and portraits. Visitors are invited to bring their cell phones or cameras to take a portrait with the Grinch.

“The Grinch: A Car with a History,” through Nov. 1, 2023. Permanent exhibit: More than two dozen Indian motorcycles and related memorabilia.

Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts: “New/Now: Contemporary Art Acquisitions,” Jan. 28 - July 30. Museum a la Carte: Today, 12:15 p.m. “Black Art Patrons in Colonial Lima: Afro-Confraternal Chapels in the Spanish Peruvian Capital.” $4, free for members. Presented by Ximena Gómez, assistant professor of art history at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

Springfield Science Museum: “Leonardo’s Lab,” through April 23. Visitors can recreate Leonardo’s tool-and-hardware-free interlocking bridge and assemble an air powered flying helicopter, making changes to improve the aerodynamics and more. “We’re Still Here,” through June 30. Native Voices Initiative begins with contemporary perspectives. Curated by Aprell May Munford.

The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum: Permanent exhibit. First floor exhibition provides opportunities to explore new sounds and vocabulary, play rhyming games, invent stories, and interactive three-dimensional exhibits. Second floor contains Theodor Geisel’s personal memorabilia. Timed tickets required. For reservations, visit springfieldmuseums.org.

CALENDAR

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: Permanent exhibit: Hands-on activities and creative exhibits, including the Hurricane Simulator. Sign up online for a play session at ameliaparkmuseum.org. Mon., 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Thu.-Sun., 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Open for groups Tues. and Wed. $8 adults, $8 children (12 months and older), $4 grandparents/seniors (60+), military personnel and teachers receive a 10% discount off the price of regular admission, members and infants free. 29 South Broad St., Westfield or ameliaparkmuseum.org.

Children’s Museum at Holyoke: Permanent exhibit includes the Wiggle and Wash Vet Clinic, a toddler merry-go-round and a STEM-based cash register for kids. Tues.-Fri, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun., noon-4 p.m. Closed Mondays. In the event of severe weather conditions, check Facebook or Instagram, or local TV Station 22 for closures. Children and adults $8; seniors (62+) $5; children under 1 and under and members are free. 444 Dwight St., Holyoke or childrensmuseumholyoke.org

East Longmeadow Historical Commission Museum: Permanent exhibit: Historical artifacts. Featured at the museum are East Longmeadow artifacts pertaining to the quarries, local Native Americans, period clothing, the railroad system, and much more. 1-3 p.m. on the third Saturday of the month, Sept.-June, weather permitting. Free. 87 Maple St., East Longmeadow

Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art: “Eric Carle’s Book Birthdays,” through March 5. “What Might You Do? Christian Robinson,” through June 4. Bilingual Storytime (English and Spanish), Jan. 29, 2 p.m., Feb. 26, 2 p.m. “The Carle Collection: Recent Acquisitions,” through April 9. Online discussion today, 7-8 p.m., “Love Without Bounds: An IntersectionAllies Book About Families.” Artists and authors online talk. To register, visit carlemuseum.org. Free. Bilingual storytime: “Last Stop on Market Street,” Jan. 29, 2-2:30 p.m. in the Reading Library. Free with museum admission. Permanent exhibit: Ga-

brielle 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. Hours: Wed.-Fri, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. $6, $9, $22.50 for a family of four. 125 West Bay Road, Amherst or carlemuseum.org

Holyoke Heritage State Park: Permanent exhibit: Preserving the history and culture of Holyoke through permanent exhibits on the paper and textile industry. Also featuring a new scale model of Mountain Park. Visitor Center open Tues.-Sun., noon-4 p.m. Closed Mon. Free admission. mass. gov/locations/holyoke-heritage-state-park. 221 Appleton St., Holyoke, 413-534-1723.

Josiah Day House: Permanent exhibit: Featuring guided tours, artifacts, furniture, clothing and documents from 1754-1902. Call for open house schedule and individual tours. $3, $1 children 6-12, free for members. 70 Park St., West Springfield, 413-734-8322.

Mead Art Museum: Permanent exhibit: Various American and European paintings, Mexican ceramics, Tibetan scroll paintings and more. Tues.-Thu. 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. Exhibits include “High Above Center Court,” “Hall of Honor,” “1891 Gallery,” “Players Gallery,” “James Goldstein Superfan gallery,” and “Jerry Colangelo Court of Dreams.”

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 (5-15); $23 students with valid high school or college ID; free for ages under 5.

1000 West Columbus Ave., Springfield or hoophall.com

Norman Rockwell Museum: Permanent exhibit: gallery. “Eloise and More: The Life and Art of Hilary Knight,” through March 12.

“Norman Rockwell’s Spirit of the Holidays,” through Feb. 5. Thu.Mon., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Tues. and Wed. Advance ticket purchase required. $20 adults; $18 seniors, AAA, retired military; $10 college students, free children ages 18 and under, members and active military.

9 Route 183, Stockbridge or nrm. org

Old Sturbridge Village: Permanent exhibit: Visit Kidstory, an indoor learning gallery in the Visitor’s Center where kids 3-10 can try on period costumes and imagine life in

the 1830s. “Neat and Tasty: Getting Dressed in Early New England”; apparel in portraiture. Hours through Feb. 21, Fri.-Sun. 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. $28, $26 seniors, $14 college students with ID & children 4-17, free for children 3 and under, Route 20, Sturbridge or osv.org.

Pan African Historical Museum

USA: Permanent exhibit: Exhibitions by local artists. Tue.-Fri., noon-4 p.m. Free, 1500 Main St., Springfield, 413-733-1823.

Polish Center of Discovery and Learning: Permanent exhibit: A living monument safeguarding historical objects representative of the material culture of the Polish people in America. Galleries include “Coming to America”; “At Home in America”; “Folk Art”; “History.” The Polish Center is open to the public daily, Mon.-Fri., 1-5 p.m., except for inclement weather and holidays. Other times may be scheduled by appointment. $5 donation, 33 South St., Chicopee or polishcenter.net

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

Susan B. Anthony Birthplace Museum: Permanent exhibit: Daniel Anthony’s Store, The Legacy Room, The Birthing Room, The Portrait Gallery. Open Fri.-Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $10 adults, $8 seniors, $6 students and children 6-17, free for children under 6 and NARM/ NEMA/ROAM members. 67 East Road, Adams or susanbanthony birthplace.com

The Emily Dickinson Museum: Homestead and Evergreens.

Admission to the museum is by guided tour, for which advance-purchase timed tickets are required. Visit EmilyDickinsonMuseum. org/ to purchase your tickets and for more information. 280 Main St., Amherst.

Titanic Museum: Permanent exhibit: Exhibits from the collection of the International Titanic Historical Society. 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 Contemporary Art - Fine Arts Center: Permanent exhibit. The Fine Arts Center requires patrons to be fully vaccinated to attend performances. Masks are not required, but are welcome and encouraged. The University Museum is open through May 1, Tue.-Fri., 11 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., noon–4p p.m.; and first

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Nightclubs

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Easthampton

MGM Springfield: MGM Free Music

Fridays: Screamin’ Eagle Band. 1 MGM Way, Springfield

The Drake: Lou Barlow. 44 North Pleasant St., Amherst

The Meeting House: Dave Brinnel. 827 Williams St., Longmeadow

Theodores’: Down the Alley. 201 Worthington St., Springfield

West Springfield Fish and Game Club: CD jukebox, pool table. 329 Garden St., Feeding Hills

SATURDAY

Delaney House: Fred Marion. 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke

Ghosts

to explore mysteries. Maybe they just love the stories or love to walk through an old house at night by flashlight,” Oakes said.

Others may want to find out whether something unusual might happen to them. Some may have had an experience before, and that makes them want to seek answers or confirmation. “I also think many people are deeply curious about the afterlife. What really happens when we die? Is it possible that some part of us may remain? Stories about hauntings may offer some answers or at least a sense of possibility,” he continued.

All of the activities at Ventfort Hall contribute to the restoration of the Gilded Age mansion, allowing visitors to enjoy the museum. “The ghost story tours and investigations have been very helpful in the past two years bringing in revenue when it was difficult to hold our regular programming that often would involve a tea and refreshments,” Rocke explained.

“It was easier to maintain social distancing and masking also” during the pandemic.

Most of the tours and

Doc’s Place: Karaoke. 1264 Granby Road, Chicopee

The Drake: Pink Talking Fish. 44 North Pleasant St., Amherst

Theodores’: Blue Devil Bluez. 201 Worthington St., Springfield

Whip City Brew: DJ with dance. 287 Elm St., Westfield

SUNDAY

Doc’s Place: Karaoke. 1264 Granby Road, Chicopee

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/myevent

investigations begin with an overview of the history of Ventfort Hall. “And the atmosphere of Ventfort, with its rather dark and castle like feel, is the perfect setting” for the ghost tours, she added.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and declared an official project of “Save America’s Treasures,” a Millennium program of Hillary Rodham Clinton and the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Ventfort Hall was one of some 75 “cottages” built in Lenox in the late 19th century when the village became a popular Gilded Age resort.

“It is important to preserve the past for future generations and connect people to the past,” Rocke said.

The restoration of Ventfort Hall continues, with the first floor open to the public along with many of the rooms on the second floor. Lectures, exhibits, theatrical performances and other events have taken place there, and it was the film set for the Academy Award-winning movie, “The Cider House Rules” and other movies.

Admission for the ghost tour is $30; the minimum age to attend is age 12. Reservations are required. To purchase tickets, call 413-637-3206.

Bilingual play ‘Espejos’ comes to life on stage

By C ori U rban

Special to The Republican

FOR KATE ABBRUZZese, playing the part of a self-acknowledged family screw-up in the bilingual play “Espejos: Clean” underscores the importance of paying attention to others.

Her character, Sarah, is living in the shadow of her sister. “Her sister’s issues got attention, but Sarah’s issues were completely unacknowledged,” Abbruzzese explained.

“Espejos: Clean,” by Christine Quintana with Spanish translation by Paula Zelaya Cervantes, is playing at Hartford Stage through Feb. 5.

The production — with continuous English and Spanish supertitles — is the story of an unlikely and meaningful connection between two women who unexpectedly meet at a vacation resort in Mexico.

The lives of the two women with different life experiences intersect at a destination

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Thursdays until 8 p.m. Closed Mondays, holidays, and academic breaks. Check for snow days online at umass.edu/closing/. 151 Presidents Drive, Amherst Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum: “Ghost Tours with Robert Oakes,” Sat., 7 p.m. Oakes will lead participants through the rooms and halls of the museum sharing stories of its hauntings. This is not an active investigation. The program is for ages 12+. Reservations required. all tickets are nonrefundable and nonexchangeable. Payment is required to make a reservation, call 413-637-3206. $30. Permanent exhibit: Guided tours of the first and second floors. Open weekdays, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and weekends, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Self-guided tours are on the hour with the last self-guided tour weekdays at 2 p.m. and weekends at 3 p.m. Masks are required and social distancing will be practiced. Call to reserve at 413-637-3206. Admission is $18 adults, $17 seniors (65+), $10 students with ID, $7 children 5-17, and free children 4 and younger. 104 Walker St., Lenox or gildedage.org

wedding in Cancún. Adriana has left her home in Chetumal, Mexico, and is working as the manager of the housekeeping staff at a resort. Sarah, from Vancouver, is the sister of the bride and the self-acknowledged family screw-up. A chance encounter during a torrential downpour leads each woman to confront her personal storm and to consider the possibility that, though isolated, she may not be as alone as she believes.

“If you don’t acknowledge moments of failure, you’re probably not evolving,” Abbruzzese said. Sarah “went through something that left an indelible mark on her, and she has never processed it.”

The connection Sarah and Adriana make is the kind of connection one might make while going through a difficult time. “There are moments when strangers collide and they can confide in each other more than they can with the people who know them best,”

Volleyball Hall of Fame: Permanent exhibit. 444 Dwight St., Holyoke or volleyhall.org

Wistariahurst Museum: Permanent exhibit: Gardens and grounds open daily from dawn to dusk. Carriage House and gift shop open Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. For information about house tours, group tours and upcoming events visit wistariahurst.org. $7 Holyoke residents, $5 seniors, $5 youth (under 18), free for museum members, active military and family members. 238 Cabot St., Holyoke or wistariahurst.org

Yiddish Book Center: Permanent exhibit, “A Velt mit veltelekh: The Worlds of Jewish Culture.” Open Thu., Fri., Sun. and Mon., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed Shabbos (Saturday) and Jewish and legal holidays. $8 adults, $6 seniors, free for members, students and children. 1021 West St., Amherst or yiddishbookcenter. org

Galleries

A.P.E. Gallery: Permanent exhibit. Tues.-Thu., noon-5 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., noon-8 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m.

“Deconstructions” works by Adrienne Albro-Fisher, Isabela

said Abbruzzese, a New Yorkbased actress and playwright. “They affect one another’s trajectory.”

She said the production illustrates how people never really know what others’ lives are truly like: “We can never fully know what anyone else is going through, but also we can see when someone is in deep pain and needs care and attention.”

The Spanish word “espejos” translates to “mirrors.” Its inclusion in the name of the production reflects its theme of not getting the full picture of another person, Abbruzzese explained. “You can never fully see another person and what they are going through or ever really see yourself in a mirror. We have friends, therapists and partners who can reflect back to us parts we can’t see.”

The characters of Sarah and Adriana “reflect back to each other things they may not have previously seen about themselves,” she continued.

Cusano, Henry Prentiss. Through Jan. 30. Mon.-Thu., 1-4 p.m., Fri., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. or by appointment. For more information, email kathycouch@apearts.org or call 413-586-5553. 126 Main St., Northampton or apearts.org

Amy H. Carberry Fine Arts Gallery: Permanent exhibit. 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.

Burnett Gallery: Sculpture by Jon Bander, through Jan. 31. 43 Amity St., Amherst.

Forbes Library: Jan. Exhibits through Jan. 30. Mosaics by Cynthia Fisher; paintings by Lennie Kaumzha; photographs by Paul Yandoli. 20 West St., Northampton or forbeslibrary.org

Gallery A3 Amherst Art Alliance: “Birds” by Keith Hollingworth, through Sat. Thu.-Sun., 2-7 p.m. 28 Amity St., Amherst, 413-256-4250.

Hope and Feathers Framing and Gallery: “Glued Down” by Jules Jones, through Feb. 25. Opening reception Feb. 2, 5-7 p.m. Galley hours: Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Thu., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 319 Main St., Amherst or hopeandfeathersframing.com

Indian Orchard Mills Dane Gallery: All new exhibits every month

Abbruzzese received a bachelor’s degree in drama and psychology from Vassar College and a master of fine arts degree from Tisch School of the Arts graduate program at New York University.

Abbruzzese acted in the film, “The Chaperone.” Her television credits include “NCIS: New Orleans,” “The Blacklist” and “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.”

Among her stage work, Abbruzzese co-starred Off-Broadway in “Pound,” a new play about Ezra Pound.

“Espejos: Clean” runs through Feb. 5. Tuesday through Thursday performances begin at 7:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday performances begin at 8 p.m.; and Saturday, Sunday and select Wednesday matinees begin at 2 p.m.

A mask-required performance will be held this Saturday, Jan. 28, at 2 p.m.; an open-captioned performance will be on Sunday, Jan. 29, at 2 p.m., and an English-only

featuring the artists at Indian Orchard Mills. Sat., noon-4 p.m., or by appointment. 34 Front St., Indian Orchard, 413-543-3321.

J. H. Miller Custom Framing and Gallery: Featuring the works of local artists. Mon.-Fri., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thu., 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 86 Elm St., West Springfield, 413-732-9128.

Sunnyside Road Gallery: Featuring the work of Carolyn Avery. Sat., 10 a.m.-2 p.m., or by calling 413-569-0384. 52 Sunnyside Road, Southwick.

Trinity United Methodist Church: “Boars Head Festival Memories: Photos and Memorabilia,” in the Trinity Community Gallery through Jan. 31. Open Sun. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and during the week by appointment. Call 413-218-7391 for more information. 361 Sumner Ave., Springfield, 413-737-5311.

Outdoors

Great Falls Discovery Center: “Nice and Easy Walk,” Fridays in Jan. 1 p.m. Meet at the Main Entrance. An easy-paced, 1 to 2-mile guided walk, along the Canalside Rail Trail or downtown Turners Falls, geared for seniors,

audio-described performance will be staged Feb. 4 at 2 p.m. Post-show conversations will take place on Jan. 31 and Feb. 1.

“I so hope you will join us for this highly theatrical experience of cross-cultural misperceptions and internal reckonings that takes place at a gorgeous resort in Mexico,” said Artistic Director Melia Bensussen. “Hartford Stage is proud to present a play told entirely in English and Spanish for the first time in the theater’s history. You don’t need to speak another language to understand or appreciate the musicality in this play, told through expertly crafted projections, supertitles and wonderful acting.”

Tickets for “Espejos: Clean” start at $30. Discounts are available for students and groups. Tickets can be purchased by visiting Hartford Stage.org, calling 860-5275151, or visiting the Hartford Stage Box Office at 50 Church St.

but open to all ages. Wear appropriate clothing and sturdy boots. Bring water. Free. In case of inclement weather, come on inside for the interpretive topic of the day. 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls or greatfallsma.org

Natural Bridge State Park: Visitors Center exhibits 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

Markets

Northampton Winter Farmers Market: Northampton Senior Center, Sat. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Jan. 28; Feb. 11, 25; March 11, 25. 67 Conz St., Northampton or northamptonseniors.com

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/ myevent

Mohegan Sun welcomes 19th annual Sun Wine & Food Fest

By K eith O ’C onnor Special to The Republican

MOHEGAN SUN special events coordinator Lauren Willard.

Wine lovers from the more casual sippers to serious connoisseurs can satisfy their thirst for that next glass of vino to add to their list of favorites at this weekend’s 19th annual Sun Wine & Food Fest at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut. While a number, but not all, of the special events planned as part of the four-day immersion into food and wine at its best are already sold out - the star of the show, Saturday’s Grand Tasting, still has tickets available, as well as tomorrow’s Grand Tasting Preview.

Wine

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Wine tasting notes

• 2020 Domaine De Marcoux La Lorentine Lirac ($32

Suggested Retail Price)

Grapes: Blend of grenache, syrah and mourvedre

Tasting notes: Based in Chateauneuf-Du-Pape, Domaine De Marcoux (and the Armenier family that owns the winery) has been making wine since the 13th century. However, the

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sauces, while All You Can Eat Riblets are served with the diner’s choice of either Honey BBQ or Asian Chile sauce. All You Can Eat Double Crunch Shrimp are served with cocktail sauce; all three entree selections come with coleslaw and fries. These All You Can Eat Deals are available for a limited time. Contact individual Applebee’s locations to verify availability at that particular restaurant.

• Celebrity-focused news outlets have been abuzz lately with the revelations from a cer-

The Grand Tasting in the Earth Expo Center on Saturday from noon until 5 p.m. features over 1,000 types of not only wine, but beer and spirits as well, from major and smaller vintners, brewers and distillers. Foodies can also taste dishes from award-winning restaurants throughout the region and select bites from top chefs. Two culinary stages will be set up for a variety of celebrity chef demos from Michael Symon, Robert Irvine, Marc Murphy, Maneet Chauhan, Nyesha Arrington, Richard Blais and others.

“When entering the Grand Tasting you will receive a glass for pours to try something different and see what you like, as well as a special sampling card for admission to Restau-

domaine’s first official wine was not released until 1989. This particular Lirac wine has a soft, smooth, luxurious finish straight out of the bottle. Flavors range from plum, blackberry and almonds, along with flinty, limestone-like notes. The second day, those flinty flavors take on earthier, more rounded notes with subtle hints of plum coming to the forefront.

• 2019 Alain Jaume & Fils

Domaine Grand Veneur Lirac Clos de Sixte ($32 SRP)

tain red-haired British prince’s tell-all book and interviews.

• One Cheshire, a Connecticut-based quick-service restaurant chain has capitalized on all the gossipy fuss and furor by rolling out a limited-time-only menu item. Wayback Burgers has introduced The Royal Silencer, a double-patty burger sandwich that also incorporates a “spare” third patty. Wayback’s president, Patrick Conlin, described The Royal Silencer as a sandwich designed “to fill mouths to capacity with every bite to discourage spilling sensitive family drama to the media and general public.” In addition to its “two patties plus a spare”

rant Row featuring 10 different restaurants,” said Mohegan Sun special events coordinator Lauren Willard.

The Grand Tasting Preview tomorrow, from 8 to 10 p.m., is a shorter version of Saturday’s prime event.

Also, among the several special events with tickets still available is tomorrow’s Beam and Burgers presented by Beam Suntory Inc. from 6 to 9 p.m. It will feature chefs Chad Rosenthal and Mike Puma creating their own taste-tempting burgers and barbecue for those attending to pair with unique whiskeys. Admission also includes live entertainment and a complimentary cigar.

Tickets to the Grand Tasting are $150 in advance and

Grapes: 50% grenache, 35% syrah and 15% mourvedre

Tasting notes: Founded in 1826, this family-owned winery is also based on ChateauneufDu-Pape. Its Lirac red wine is made with certified organic grapes. This outstanding wine has a flinty, dry, intense finish. Flavors range from dried blackberries and plums to cured meats and toasted almonds. The second day, those wonderful flinty flavors have a slightly floral aroma along with subtle hints of cherry and cranberry.

design, The Royal Silencer includes American cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions, ketchup, and mustard all sandwiched in a bun. The chain has offered “legitimate royals living in the United States” a Royal Silencer “on the house.” There is a Wayback Burgers restaurant in Worcester on Tobias Boland Way as well as Northern Connecticut Wayback locations in Granby and East Windsor.

Hugh Robert is a faculty member in Holyoke Community College’s hospitality and culinary arts program and has nearly 50 years of restaurant and educational experience. Robert can be reached online at OffTheMenuGuy@aol.com.

$160 on the day of the event, and for the Grand Tasting Preview are $100 in advance and $125 day of event.

Beam and Burgers tickets are $100 in advance and $125 on the day of event.

• 2020 Domaine Roger Sabon Lirac ($25 SRP)

Grapes: 70% grenache, 10% syrah, 10% mourvedre and 10% carignan

Tasting notes: Members of the Sabon family have been making wine in ChateauneufDu-Pape since the 1540s. Several members of the Sabon family operate different wineries in the area. The Roger Sabon winery was created in 1952.

Let me add that I have been a huge fan of Roger Sabon wines

They are available at mohegansun.com, while tickets last. There are also tickets priced at $40 for those who want to take precautions and bring a designated driver along.

for years. Their 2020 Lirac illustrates why. This austere yet luxurious wine has a flinty, intense finish with hints of dried plums and roasted almonds. The second day, those same flavors are even bigger and riper, especially its plum notes. Another great red wine from the relatively-unknown wine village of Lirac.

Cheers!

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

The annual Sun Wine & Food Fest returns this weekend to the Mohegan Sun resort casino in Uncasville, Conn.

WITH TABLE 3

THE DUCK & AVELLINO ’s talented chefs have crafted some fantastic Valentine’s specials sure to make your Valentine’s celebration a memorable one. Valentine’s specials will be available Tuesday through Saturday, February 14–18. To celebrate with that someone special, please call 508-347-2321 for reservations. We expect to fill up quickly so don’t delay.

CEDAR STREET GRILLE will be open for some amazing Valentine’s specials Tuesday through Sunday, February 14-19. Along with Valentine’s specials, Cedar Street Grille will also be serving up our signature small plates, entrées, and dessert specials. We’ll also be offering a brunch on Sunday from 10am–3pm. Valentine’s is always busy at Cedar Street Grille, so please plan ahead and make your reservation now by calling 508-347-5800.

TABLE 3 RESTAURANT GROUP