For the latest WMass happenings, visit masslive.com/entertainment
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BOWZER: Rock ‘N’ Doo-Wop Party coming to Mohegan Sun, E4 LIVE WIRE: Iron Horse Music Hall slated for May reopening, E4 WEDDING PLANNING: Springfield Wedding & Bridal Expo returns, E5
Mary Lambert Singer-songwriter reflects on work, Macklemore collab & First Night performance Page E2
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Mary Lambert, who collaborated with Macklemore on the hit “Same Love” and has written songs like “Body Love,” “Secrets,” and “She Keeps Me Warm,” performed recently during Northampton’s First Night festivities.
Mary Lambert proud to be herself, unapologetically
Singer-songwriter reflects on work, Macklemore collab “Same Love,” & First Night performance
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By James Foster
Special to The Republican
welve years after her rapid rise to fame, “Same Love” singer Mary Lambert finally got her opportunity to share her love and talents with the Western Massachusetts community at Northampton’s First Night. Lambert, who has lived in Western Massachusetts for a decade, attended First Night as a guest nearly 10 years ago and was enthralled by the connection between the artists and the music-loving community. The magnitude of the event — First Night Northampton is the largest New Year’s Eve event in Massachusetts — and size of the crowds, along with the jubilant energy that was present throughout the day, made Lambert want to return to the event as a performer.
“I saw Winterpills at one of the churches, and it was so magical, so beautiful, and I loved the sense of community and how massive it was,” Lambert said. “Just to see people of all ages out and about, and supporting music and supporting artists, it’s just a special thing. I remember watching them and thinking ‘it would be so fun to play First Night’ and it hasn’t
worked out any other time so I’m really excited that I finally got to do it.” Lambert, who has released three albums and three EPs, was born and raised in Seattle, Washington. She began writing lyrics and poetry when she was young as a way to comfort herself and escape from reality. “If I’m being honest about the truth of my life, the first half was
real dark,” Lambert said. “And my songwriting afforded me the ability to live this vibrant life I have now. Songwriting, at the beginning of my life, was a form of survival, was a way to heal and process things that were happening in real time. As a 7 year old, writing a song on my little Casio keyboard while I’m hearing violence in the house, comforting myself and
soothing myself. I learned the power of art can change your life, can change your perspective about a situation, can make you feel safe, can make you feel a sense of home.” As a spoken word performer, Lambert became part of Seattle’s poetry scene as a teenager. It was there that she was discovered by Ben Haggerty, a Seattle native who is known by his stage name, Macklemore. Lambert and Macklemore collaborated on “Same Love,” a song that promotes gay marriage and embraces homosexuality in America. It quickly became a hit and a gay anthem, and Lambert’s voice in the chorus became a staple on radio waves. The lyrics, “I can’t change, even if I tried, even if I wanted to. My love, my love, my love, she keeps me warm,” have been a part of many queer weddings through the years, including a live mega-wedding that saw 33 couples become married at the 2014 Grammys. “There was a period of time where I was not comfortable saying, ‘Oh, [“Same Love”] has been impactful’ or ‘I’ve been a part of something super impactful’ and I felt that maybe it was SEE LAMBERT, PAGE E7
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 11, 2024 | E3
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MUSIC
Iron Horse Music Hall slated for May reopening
Nightclubs THURSDAY The Drake: Lonnie Holley with Mourning (A) Blkstar. 44 N. Pleasant St., Amherst
FRIDAY Antimony Brewing: Tom Savoy. 55 Pittsfield Road Building 2, Lenox Delaney House: Ron Smith Duo. 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke East Mountain Country Club: Rock 201 Band. 1458 E. Mountain Road, Westfield MGM Springfield: MGM Roar Comedy Club: Big Irish Jay. 1 MGM Way, Springfield The Meeting House: Dave Brinnel. 827 Williams St., Longmeadow Theodores’: King Saison. 201 Worthington St., Springfield West Springfield’s Irish House Restaurant & Pub: Dan Ringrose. 429 Morgan Road, West Springfield
Jon “Bowzer” Bauman, of Sha Na Na fame, performs his classic pose. Seventy-six-year-old Bauman is the driving force behind Bowzer’s Rock ‘N’ Doo-Wop Party Volume XXII, coming to the Mohegan Sun Arena on Sunday. (MIC SMITH / ASSOCIATED PRESS)
UNCASVILLE, CONN.
Wowzer, Bowzer!
Delaney House: Wes Parker. 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke
Rock ‘N’ Doo-Wop Party coming to Mohegan Sun
East Mountain Country Club: 91 South Band. 1458 E. Mountain Road, Westfield
Special to The Republican
SATURDAY
MGM Springfield: MGM Roar Comedy Club: Big Irish Jay. 1 MGM Way, Springfield The Drake: Mr. Mota with Autumn Drive. 44 N. Pleasant St., Amherst The Hawks & Reed Performing Arts Center: Warm to Close, Tysk Tysk Task, Necralant, Amulette. 289 Main St., Greenfield Theodores’: Eran Troy Danner. 201 Worthington St., Springfield West Springfield’s Irish House Restaurant & Pub: Billy Eagan. 429 Morgan Road, West Springfield
SUNDAY Marigold Theater: Ethel Lee Ensemble, Juke Join Jazz. 84 Cottage St., Easthampton The Hawks & Reed Performing Arts Center: Mid-Winter Zydeco Music and Dance Fest: Zydegroove & Planet Zydeco. 289 Main St., Greenfield
Wowzer, Bowzer. He’s back. Jon Bauman, better known to millions of music lovers as Bowzer from Sha Na Na, is bringing his Rock ‘N’ DooWop Party Volume XXII back to Mohegan Sun Arena on Sunday. A tribute to the muchloved and revered music of the ’50s and early ’60s, the show features more than 10 groups and individual artists who made an indelible mark on the music scene. Showtime is 3 p.m. The show will feature headliner Kenny Vance and the Planotones as well as Gary “U.S.” Bonds, Jay Siegel’s Tokens, La La Brooks, who was the original lead singer of The Crystals, The Dubs, Joey Dee and the Starliters, Johnny Farina of Santo & Johnny, 9/11 firefighter Frank Pizarro, who is the former lead singer of The Platters, Bowzer & The Stingrays with Johnny Contardo, Rocky and the Rollers, and special guest
“This show has had a life of its own since I began putting it together in 2003, and we only missed one year due to COVID.” Jon ‘Bowzer’ Bauman
Bobby Brooks Wilson, son of famed Jackie Wilson. Still going strong at age 76 — although tours and many solo shows are a thing of the past — Bauman said his Rock ‘N’ Doo-Wop Party is the perfect venue to showcase the talents of these much-beloved performers. “This show has had a life SEE BOWZER, PAGE E6
George Lenker Live Wire
view last week. Along with the historic reputation of the Iron Horse, there were other factors that played into the decision to acquire the venue. “I was talking to people in the community and I realized that everyone was missing the Iron Horse,” Freeman said. “There was a ton of enthusiasm about doing it from everyone including community leaders who understood the fundraising we would need to do.” Freeman emphasized that doing the fundraising aspect
SEE LIVE WIRE, PAGE E6
People. Plant. Purpose.
LARGEST SELECTION OF:
Two-time Award Winning Dispensary
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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
By Keith O’Connor
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HE NEW YEAR ALways brings a lot of hope, and in Western Massachusetts there are few items on the entertainment horizon that are bringing more anticipation than the return of Northampton’s Iron Horse Music Hall. The legendary venue has seen scores of renowned musicians grace its stage, but like many other clubs, the pandemic shuttered it in 2020. Unfortunately, it’s doors never opened again, leading music fans wondering if their beloved Horse was being put out to pasture. Fortunately, the Parlor Room Collective stepped up and negotiated with former owner Eric Suher and is set to being the venue back to life later this year. The collective is a nonprofit born of The Parlor Room, a small performance space one street over in Northampton. Chris Freeman, executive director of the collective, talked about the future of the Iron Horse in a telephone inter-
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Scenes from a past Springfield Wedding & Bridal Expo at the Eastern States Exposition. (STEVEN E. NANTON PHOTOS)
WEST SPRINGFIELD
Start planning your wedding at 34th annual Bridal Expo By Keith O’Connor
Special to The Republican
Whether you are getting married this year or even two years from now, it is never too early to start planning your wedding. Couples can begin the lengthy process this weekend inside the Better Living Center at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, where the 34th annual Springfield Wedding and Bridal Expo opens its doors on Saturday for two days. Hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $10 and available online at jenksproductions. com or at the door. More than 80 vendors attending the show will be focusing on a variety of products and services such as: wedding dresses and shoes, bridal veils and hair accessories, bridesmaid and mother of the bride dresses, maid of honor and junior bridesmaid dresses, wedding venues, wedding invitations and cards, wedding cakes, gifts and favors, decorations and centerpieces, flowers
and bouquets, bands and DJs, photographers an videographers, jewelers, limousine services and much more. “Our Wedding and Bridal Show for the past 35 years in West Springfield has provided ease of planning for that important day. You don’t have to run around town to find what you’re looking for from a wedding dress to tuxedo or from a DJ to a venue — you will find most of the area businesses under one roof. It is a shopping experience you will not find anywhere else and with some entertainment in the background, it gets you in the wedding mood with an uplifting atmosphere,” said Dennis Jenks, owner of Jenks Productions, organizers of the event. “Another advantage is you can instantly get to know and meet the people who might be choosing to provide a service for you wedding. And you can maybe save some money placing one vendor against the other at the show,” he added.
SEE WEDDING, PAGE E10
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Bowzer CONTINUES FROM PAGE E4
of its own since I began putting it together in 2003, and we only missed one year due to COVID. It began as Bowzer’s Ultimate Doo-Wop Party and we were doing two shows a year, a doo-wop version in the winter and a rock version in the summer. The winter show was always jammed, but in the summer it was more difficult to fill the arena with so much else going on. So, about four years ago we combined the genres into what is now Bowzer’s Rock ‘N’ Doo-Wop Party,” Bauman said about their 22-year run at Mohegan Sun. “We bring the show to Mohegan every January during Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend, and we hope to do it again next year. The show is specific to this region for a crowd who really loves this kind of music. They come from all over to see the show New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Maine and further. It is the biggest show of its kind in this genre that focuses on the artists and their music from the ’50s to the early ’60s until the British Invasion,” he added. Bauman called Sunday’s show “the grandaddy of all of them.” “I’m 76 years old and many who will be performing on stage are older than me. None of us want to do a big touring schedule at our age, and at Mohegan we can perform in an environment where it is always crowded and the audience loves our music. And none of us has to shoulder the burden of performing for three hours long on stage, which is about what the show will last. Also, from the audience’s point view, the tickets are inexpensive for the tremendous number of talented performers who will be singing their hits — there is no filler in the show,” he said. Bauman was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1947 and was considered a child prodigy, playing the piano and beginning classical lessons at age 7 before attending the
“I’m 76 years old and many who will be performing on stage are older than me. None of us want to do a big touring schedule at our age, and at Mohegan we can perform in an environment where it is always crowded and the audience loves our music.” Jon ‘Bowzer’ Bauman
prestigious Julliard School at age 12, then ultimately graduating magna cum laude from Columbia College in New York. He gained fame in 1969 when along with several classmates from Columbia, they formed Sha Na Na — the first major revival group to honor the music and times of the ’50s and ’60s, even before the “Grease” stage show and movie were released and the popular nostalgic sitcom “Happy Days” aired on television. For the group, Bauman created his alter ego, the lovable greaser named Bowzer. Their fame reached a high point in 1977 when they were given their own syndicated television variety show named after them. It ran from 1977 to 1981, with Bauman eventually leaving the group in 1983. “I loved the group and having our own television show. We were a counter-culture phenomenon and we began the revival a little tongue-incheek, but it was more about the mores of the time, not the music which we were very serious about. When I created Bowzer, it was really the first look at a 1950s greaser from the eyes of the ’60s and ’70s even before Danny Zucko from ‘Grease’ and ‘The Fonz’ from ‘Happy Days.’ Some of the real icons of the late ’60s and ’70s really loved us and the revival, including Keith Moon from The Who,
SEE BOWZER, PAGE E12
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Live Wire CONTINUES FROM PAGE E4
as a nonprofit was the only way the collective could do it. So they started a $750,000 capital campaign, which is ongoing. For those looking to contribute, go online to ironhorse.org. While an ambitious opening date of February was floated last year, Freeman said the target date is now May. The physical work being done on the venue is fairly daunting, but also exciting for fans. “We’re taking over the storefront next door and building a bar into that space,” Freeman said. “There also will be 10 bathrooms upstairs, which is like the biggest piece of this.” The addition of upstairs restrooms means the entire basement can now be utilized by bands as a dressing room and the two restrooms downstairs will be for the artists only. The food menu will also get an upgrade, Freeman said. The collective is working with Dave Schrier, co-owner of Easthampton’s popular Daily Operation restaurant to redo the menu. “There will be some changes, but basically we are going to try to keep what everyone loved about it the same, Free-
Chris Freeman, executive director of the Parlor Room Collective, during a press conference in the Iron Horse music venue in Northampton. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)
man said. “The history of the place is amazing; the bones of the place are amazing, and that’s what we’re trying to bring back.”
Feb. 23. Doors open at 7 p.m. with shows at 7:30 p.m. • Bill Frisell Three, featuring Gregory Tardy and Rudy Royston, will play Liner notes BOMBYX in Northampton on • MGM Springfield will Feb. 29. start its “Free Music Fridays Frisell’s 40-year career as Concert” series at the resort’s both a guitarist and composer ARIA Ballroom on Jan. 26. has been celebrated by critics The series begins with The and fans. Known primarily Blushing Brides, a Rolling as a jazz guitarist, Frisell has Stones tribute band. On integrated aspects of folk, Feb. 2, 1980s metal tribute country, rock ‘n’ roll and Aquanett will take the stage, Americana into his music. followed by modern country He has earned six Grammy band Trailer Trash on Feb. nominations and one win. 9, and Darik & The FunTickets range from $35 to bags on Feb. 16. The series $50 in advance and $40 to ends with The Eagles Expe- $55 at the door. BOMBYX is rience, an Eagles tribute, on at 130 Pine St.
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
Chicopee Elks #1849
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Lambert CONTINUES FROM PAGE E2
THURSDAY, JANUARY 11, 2024 | E7
VIP coaching as well as a self- disorder – and other times are paced course. hot-button topics, like the onLambert has always wanted going Israel-Palestine conflict. to help other fat people love When talking about their themselves, but knew that podcast, Lambert and if she were going to provide Hermansen could not stop direct support, she had to do gushing over each other. it perfectly since body image “I feel like every time we issues are incredibly sensitive record I’m getting really smart topics. by talking to you,” Lambert “It’s important to me to be said to Hermansen. “Wyatt deliberate and intentional, so is the most brilliant person as I’m working with people I’ve ever met. The way that and talking to them about they think, and the way they their relationships to their absorb information, and their bodies, I better not f–k it up, perspectives on situations are I better get it right,” Lambert things that I’m really inspired said. “So I spent about two by.” years researching, ‘How do “In our relationship, it’s we get to this point, how do been so neat because it’s time we get to this place where for us to not just record it for people are valuing thinness the benefit of other people, at all costs and are engaging but it’s a concentrated amount in really risky behaviors and of time that we get to spend killing themselves in order together, really focusing on Singer Mary Lambert mixes song, poetry and emotional conto be thin under the guise of connecting,” Hermansen said. firmations at the New York State Fair on Aug. 24, 2023. (N. SCOTT health?’ That research was “I just try to make it the kind TRIMBLE) super informative and super of thing, and I think Mary what people in the comments helpful and changed my feels the same way, that when would say. The friend tried relationship with my body as i was struggling with this “It is my job on this to comfort Lambert, saying I learned more things, like stuff and they weren’t very earth, I feel, to the world has become an how there were so many other many people talking about it, increasingly accepting place approaches to living life other whether it be mental health be a shame wash. for queer people and that she than always being on a diet or or figuring out your gender Let’s get rid of the would receive much more always being anxious about identity, or relationships and shame. It’s not love than hate. But Lambert your body.” the issues queer people face Since 2019, Lambert and in relationships, what kind of helping anyone and wasn’t concerned about comments on her queerher spouse, Dr. Wyatt Paige podcast I would’ve wanted to it’s hurting all of ness; she was worried about Hermansen, who uses they/ listen to. It’s just an incredibly us.” fat-shaming comments. It was them pronouns, have been special thing to do.” then that she knew she had recording episodes for their Lambert’s most recent Mary Lambert to advocate for the plus-size podcast, “The Manic Epialbum, “Grief Creature,” community, too. sodes.” Their podcast, which came out in 2019 and was the that, I think ‘That’s the power Since then, Lambert has has over 100 episodes, deals first album that she produced of music. That’s what’s so ensured that her pride in her with challenging issues that single-handedly. Lambert is special about [“Same Love”] body is front and center of are sometimes personal, currently working on another is that we made something everything she does. She cher- like their queerness or their album that she is producing that helped people feel seen. ishes her body and feels it is mental health – both Lambert on her own and will feature That’s so special.’ I feel really her duty to encourage others and Hermansen have bipolar her songs and poetry. lucky that I got to do that.” to be unashamed of themThroughout her music selves, no matter their size. HERE TO career, Lambert has focused “It is my job on this earth, CELEBRATE on sharing important aspects I feel, to be a shame wash,” of her identity with the world. Lambert said. “Let’s get rid Her unapologetic attitude of the shame. It’s not helping toward being herself has man- anyone and it’s hurting all of ifested itself fully in hit songs us.” CUSTOMER APPRECIATION WEEKEND “Body Love,” “Secrets,” and Her most direct involveJANUARY 12TH - 14TH “She Keeps Me Warm,” the ment with the fat community latter of which took the chorus is her “Everybody Is A Babe” OFF of “Same Love.” In each song, workshop, which took her ENTIRE PURCHASE Lambert openly shares a crit- years of research and hard ical yet often scrutinized part work to put together. The Prize Wheel Giveaways of herself, whether it be her workshop originated as a Earn 2x Loyalty Rewards Points on all purchases, all weekend long body, her bipolar disorder, or four-week course that met her queerness. twice a week and taught & GET A FREE GIFT BAG SPEND $100 VALUED AT $75 When the music video for techniques that promoted “She Keeps Me Warm” was self-love and appreciation for At Greenfield location only. The gift bag minimum is calculated before the discount and while supplies last. released, Lambert told a one’s body. The workshop is Cannot be combined with any other offer. In-store only. 18 Main St, Greenfield, MA 01301 friend that she was scared of now also being offered with
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egotistical to say something like that,” Lambert said. “But I now recognize that there are songs throughout my life that have changed how I feel about myself or the rest of the world so it is not beyond me to think maybe that song had that kind of impact for other people. And I remember listening to it for the first time and thinking, ‘This is a really incredible song.’ It was really exciting that we made it but I think what made it so profound and so powerful was what people did with it.” When Lambert and Macklemore performed together, Lambert was the only queer person in the spotlight on stage. She said that, although it was scary to be in that position, every time she performed “Same Love,” there was another metaphorical bandaid put over the mental and emotional wounds of her childhood. She cherished the ability to be a beacon of hope and light for queer children who did not have a support system. “I think about kids who are growing up in Southern states or places where they don’t have affirming community or families that respect their identity and love them unconditionally,” Lambert said. “When I think about
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DINE & WINE
McDonald’s spinoff CosMc’s to focus on drinks, fast snacks
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AST MONTH’S ANnouncement by Chicago-based McDonald’s Corp. that it was debuting the first unit of a new beverage-and-snack concept proved to a headline-grabbing story across the restaurant world. In addition to its own impressive track record, McDonald’s Corp played a major role in the success of the Chipotle Mexican Grill, in which McDonald’s was an early investor, so it’s not surprising that the news the company was creating a secondary brand generated plenty of excitement. McDonald’s new concept, CosMc’s, is what restaurant wonks would label a “beverage-centric” operation. Named for a McDonald’s marketing campaign character of the 1980s, CosMc’s is a quick service, drive-thru brand consciously designed to exploit two separate food service trends - “snacking” over “full meal” consumption and the rapid growth of the coffee and specialty beverage category. Though the menu at CosMc’s includes several McDonald’s favorites such as the Egg McMuffin and the McFlurry, much of the rest of the line-up is unique and somewhat edgy. CosMc’s handheld options will include Creamy Avocado Tomatillo and Spicy Queso sandwiches, while the drinks menu will offer a large array of teas, cold-brewed coffees, lemonades and energy drinks. The drinks will be customizable with various flavorings, mix-ins and energy shots. Technology will also play a big role at CosMc’s, with multiple drive-thru and pickup lanes, interactive digital menus and, of course, a smartphone app. The initial test of CosMc’s is limited to a single location now operating outside Chicago
Hugh Robert Off The Menu
with nine more in Dallas-Fort Worth and San Antonio, Texas slated to open in the coming months.
The spicy queso breakfast sandwich, above left, at CosMc’s includes a fluffy omelet, sausage patty, two cheeses and jalapeno chips on a small bun. Above right, a Sour Cherry Energy Burst Drink is made with fruity boba. (STACEY WESCOTT/CHICAGO TRIBUNE/TNS)
stocked with venison, elk, bison, and kangaroo; an assortment of sides, cheeses, and salads will round out the feast offerings. Side Dishes Tickets for the dinner, which • Champney’s Restaurant are $65, can be ordered by at the Deerfield Inn will be calling 413-594-8788. holding a Robert Burns Night Additional feasts are planned celebration on Jan. 20, starting for February, March, and April. at 6 p.m. • Brignole Vineyards of Burns Nights are held to East Granby (CT) is collaboratcommemorate the birthday of ing with The Tasty Empanathe renowned Scottish poet, da of Thomaston to present Robert Burns. The celebraa Four Course Dinner with tions, which begin in 1801, Cooking Demonstration. have become a worldwide To be held on Jan. 19 starting phenomenon, with events held at 6:30 p.m., the event’s menu throughout the English-speak- will include a charcuterie ing world. board and a hearty salad The Burns Night at Champcourse of local greens, roasted ney’s will be respect the sweet potato, and fried goat traditional order of such cheese. celebrations, with a dinner The main course is planned that include haggis and other to be garlic jumbo shrimp in a Highland specialties, the recwild mushroom cream; dessert itation of some of Burns’ work, will be passionfruit flan. and a wee dram or two of good Tickets are available at Scottish whisky. Eventbrite.com; Brignole The Burns Night will be $85 Vineyards, which is hosting per person, not including tax or the evening, can be reached at gratuity. Reservations should 860-653-9463. be made by calling the Deer• The East Village Tavern field Inn at 413-774-5587. in East Longmeadow has in• On Jan. 20, the Munich troduced a new brunch menu. Haus German Restaurant in Served Sundays from 10 a.m. Chicopee will hold the first of to 2 p.m., the brunch features its 2024 Game Feasts. “Build Your Own Mimosas.” The event will begin at 6 An a la carte menu is feap.m., with a buffet menu of tured, and it lists a variety of “wild” edibles. Some of the omelet options, such as an dishes on offer will include “Irish” filled with corned beef, wild turkey schnitzel, roasted Swiss cheese and sauerkraut wild boar, fried alligator, and or a classic “Western” stuffed house-made game sausages. with peppers, onions, ham and A carving station will be Cheddar.
Chicken & Waffles is available, as is a Steak & Eggs combination plate. Other breakfast-style dishes include Eggs Benedict, Pancakes and French Toast. For those in lunch frame of mind, several wraps, sandwiches, a cheeseburger, and a cobb salad option are also offered. Located at 53 North Main St., the East Village Tavern is open daily for lunch and dinner. They answer at 413-525-7777. • KFC is expanding its lineup of snack options by introducing two new wraps. Available for a limited time only, a Spicy Mac & Cheese Chicken Wrap brings together an Extra Crispy Chicken Tender, mac & cheese and a slather of spicy mayo all wrapped together in a soft tortilla. The second new option, the Honey BBQ Chicken Wrap, is fashioned from a chicken tender drizzled with honey barbecue sauce, mayonnaise and crunchy pickles. The new wrap options join three permanent variations on KFC’s wrap menu, all of which are available as either a twofor-$5 deal or as part of a KFC Wraps Combo that includes two wraps, a medium drink, and KFC’s “Secret Recipe” fries. There are KFC locations in Ludlow on Center Street, in Chicopee on Memorial Drive, and in Northampton on King Street. • On Jan. 18, Leena’s Place
in Belchertown is holding a Pie and Wine Pairing event. Scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m., the evening will give participants the chance to taste wines and pies from around the world. Cost to attend is $20 per person. Leena’s Place is located in the clubhouse at the Cold Spring Country Club in Belchertown. For more information, call 413323-4888. • Though wine experts often pooh-pooh the idea of matching wines to sweet foods, Wine ETC., a wine and spirits retailer in Simsbury, Conn., is taking a different approach to such a pairing problem. On Jan. 26, starting at 6 p.m., Wine ETC., in conjunction with Cake Gypsy of Avon, Conn., will be presenting a program that pairs four wine samplings with four cupcake varieties. Tickets for the event are $45 and can be purchased online at ctwineetc.com Their telephone number is 860-217-0688. Cake Gypsy, which has two Connecticut locations, specializes in cupcakes, offering a wide variety of flavors. Their website is cakegypsy.com. 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.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 11, 2024 | E9
DINE & WINE
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Non-alcoholic wines worth drinking in Dry January
N RECENT YEARS, there’s been a growing interest in non-alcohol drinks. Non-alcoholic beer has been a thing for decades. Cocktails without alcohol can be found in almost any bar. In recent years, you can add alcohol-free wines to this growing list. In fact, sales of non-alcohol wines have grown dramatically in recent years. Some people don’t drink alcohol any time of year. Others choose to not drink alcohol certain times of the year, including this month, which some people now refer to as Dry January. That’s why I thought now would be a great time to dive into the wide world of non-alcohol wines. Along with several recommended no-alcohol wines, you can also learn more about how wine is made without alcohol. So how do alcohol-free wines taste? In general, pretty good to outstanding in one particular case. Some of the prices also seemed a bit high for wines without alcohol, in my opinion. Let me add that I think it’s best to think of alcohol-free wines as something different from wines with alcohol. They’re not bad, just different — sort of like the difference between white or red wines, port or sparkling wine. One isn’t better than the other. They’re simply unique. Hope you enjoy. How popular are alcohol-free wines? The short answer? Increasingly popular. In recent years, sales figures for alcohol-free have skyrocketed. In 2022, consumers purchased 23% more alcohol-free wines that year compared to the year before, according to data collected by Nielsen Consumer LLC.
The alcohol-free wines reviewed this week. (KEN ROSS PHOTO)
nol) during fermentation. Most winemakers add yeast during the fermentation process. However, there are a very small number of winemakers who simply allow natural yeasts to develop during the fermentation process.
Ken Ross Wine Press
However, it is important to note that the market for alcohol-free beverages (which includes no-alcohol wine, beer and spirits) is still relatively small compared to the total alcohol market. Overall, the sale of all non-alcohol beverages accounted for 0.47% of total alcohol sales in 2022, according to Nielson Consumer. What is alcohol in wine? First, it’s important to understand how alcohol gets into wine. Remember, wine is made with grapes. So why does wine have alcohol but grape juice does not? One word — fermentation. During the fermentation process — which often takes one to two weeks — yeast breaks down sugar. The result is a byproduct called ethanol. Ethanol is what makes alcohol in wine. Or rather, yeast turns sugar into alcohol (etha-
How is alcohol-free wine made? In order to make alcohol-free wine, ethanol must be removed after the fermentation process. Again, without fermentation, wine would not be wine. It would simply be grape juice. Many winemakers call this process dealcoholization. This is why some winemakers refer to alcohol-free wines as dealcoholized wines. As you can expect when it comes to wine, there’s no one single way every winemaker removes alcohol from wine. After fermentation, some alcohol-free winemakers chill the wine, spin it and vacuum out the ethanol. Other winemakers heat the wine slightly in order to evaporate the ethanol. However, winemakers who use this dealcoholization process need to be extremely careful since extreme heat can ruin a wine and destroy all its wonderful flavors. SEE WINE, PAGE E11
I
Is beer fading?
S BEER FADING? Over the past few weeks, I’ve written about both how beer fared in 2023 and some thoughts on what’s in store for 2024. While I remain cautiously optimistic overall, some clouds gathering on the horizon can still give me pause. One such specter was the focus of a recent story on Fox News Digital by Anders Hagstrom. The piece noted that Americans drank less beer in 2023 than any other year this century. No matter what the extenuating circumstances, that fact can’t be seen as a positive for beer fans. Of course, craft beer still only makes up a small percentage of the overall U.S. beer market. So part of the 2023 decline has to be blamed on the boycott against Bud Light. You might recall that the boycott was fueled by conservative reaction to Bud Light’s sponsorship agreement with transgender activist and social media influencer Dylan Mulvaney. The brand celebrated Mu-
George Lenker Beer Nut
vaney’s year of identifying as a woman by featuring cans with the influencer’s face. The backlash caused Bud Light’s sales to drop 30% from 2022. But even a dent in one brand, despite how big it is, certainly can’t account for beer hitting a 23-year low. As a recent story in the Washington Examiner noted, a shift in the tastes of younger generations is also eroding beer sales. The story quoted a survey by data firm MRI-Simmons that showed that Generation Z is less likely to imbibe alcohol at all: They drank the lowest amount of alcohol among
SEE BEER, PAGE E11
OPENING THIS SATURDAY!
Discover your story through the art and science of animation In collaboration with
Watch the trailer
ART • HISTORY • SCIENCE • SEUSS IN SPRINGFIELD
SpringfieldMuseums.org •
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E10 | THURSDAY, JANUARY 11, 2024
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
CALENDAR through Jan. 14 in the Wheeler Gallery. Museum a la Carte: Jan. 11, 12:15 p.m. “Ruth and the Green Book,” a presentation by the author. $4, free for members, in-person or online. Join accomplished author, playwright, and photographer Calvin Alexander Ramsey for a discussion of his work “Ruth and The Green Book,” and a screening of the production it inspired. During the presentation Ramsey will explore the history and importance of “The Green Book,” and share its connection to Springfield.
THURSDAY The Ice Rink at MGM: Thu.-Sun., MGM Springfield, Hours: Wed.Thu., 4-10 p.m.; Fri. 1-10 p.m.; Sat. 110 p.m.; Sun. noon-10 p.m. Closed Mon.-Tues. Skate rental $7. Visit https://mgmspringfield.mgm resorts.com/en/entertainment/ ice-rink.html for more information. 1 MGM Way, Springfield.
FRIDAY ”Because I Could Not Stop, An Encounter with Emily Dickinson”: Fri., 7 p.m. Holyoke Media, MIFA Victory Theatre presents a live rehearsal/recording. This program takes audiences on a journey through Dickinson’s elusive artistic world pairing the chamber music of renowned 19th-century composer Amy Beach with Dickinson’s words, images, emotions, and imagination, $24. 1 Court Plaza (23 Suffolk St.), Holyoke; The Ice Rink at MGM: See Thursday listing Suzuki Honors Recital: Fri., 6 p.m. Click Workspace, Suzuki cello, guitar, viola, and violin students of the Northampton Community Music Center will perform pieces from the Suzuki repertoire. These students, ages 5-18, will demonstrate musical excellence in folk songs, as well as classical pieces. Pianist Sarah Ehle will accompany the students. Also on view: “Structures for Spaciousness” by Kim Carlino, Free. 9 1/2 Market St., Northampton; clickworkspace.com.
SATURDAY The Ice Rink at MGM: See Thursday listing Springfield Symphony Orchestra Concert: Sat, 7:30 p.m. Springfield Symphony Hall, “Classics & JazzMLK Jr. Celebration” with guest conductor Damien Sneed. Tickets $25-$75. 34 Court St., Springfield, 413-733-2291 or symphonyhall. com. Youth Social Justice Art Workshops: Sat., UMass Amherst Center at Tower Square. Visit artforthesoulgallery.com for more details on specific workshop times.
Wedding CONTINUES FROM PAGE E5
Jenks noted in the more than three decades since the show began, many things have changed in the wedding industry.
The Springfield Symphony Orchestra will host “Classics & Jazz — MLK Jr. Celebration,” featuring New York-based pianist Jason Flowers, on Saturday. (PHOTO COURTESY SSO) All workshops in this series are free. 1500 Main St., Springfield.
SUNDAY The Ice Rink at MGM: See Thursday listing Sunday Worship Service: Sun., 10 a.m. United Congregational Church of Holyoke. Arrive 15 minutes earlier to join for a “hymn sing” or join in after worship for fellowship, conversation, coffee and snacks. 300 Appleton St., Holyoke; 413532-1483 or uccholyoke.org. West Springfield Coin Club Meeting: Sun., 7 p.m. Mittineague Congregational Church, A presentation will be given on 1785 to 1788 Colonial copper coins of Vermont. Guests are always welcome. For more information, contact Peter Setian at 413-596-9871, 1840 Westfield St., West Springfield.
Quadrangle
George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum: Permanent exhibit: “Ancient Treasures,” a display of ar-
“COVID had a big impact. More people than ever before are looking at the expense of a wedding. Some luxury items which are very expensive such as carriages can be very expensive and have experienced a downturn in business. Also, there are not as many shops as
tifacts from ancient China, Greece, Rome and Egypt. On the first Wed. of every month through the end of 2026, admission to the Springfield Museums will be free. For more information, visit springfield museums.org. Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History: “Latinos en Springfield, Presente y Pasado / Latinos in Springfield Past and Present,” through March 3. Meet the Grinch: Jan. 13-14, 11:30 a.m.3:30 p.m. Step into the Grinch’s Grotto to meet the Grinch himself. Visit with Mt. Crumpit’s most famous resident, snap a few photos, and explore a winter wonderland of holiday spirit. Free with museum admission. Note: Because he needs his beauty rest, the Grinch will take a short break every 40 minutes. Permanent exhibit: More than two dozen Indian motorcycles and related memorabilia. Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts: “A Gathering: Works from Contemporary Black American Ceramic Artists,” through March 31. “As They Saw It: Women Artists Then & Now,”
there once were. COVID put many of the smaller guys out of business,” he said. Participants can also sit and relax to enjoy a fashion show and entertainment planned both days at the show’s stage including participation by Caccie’s Bridal Closet, Fred
Springfield Science Museum: “Animationland.” Jan. 13-May 5. Join Tracey the pencil dog and her crew— Rooth, Drop, Inky, Uno, and Kari — on a fantastically immersive journey to create stories using science and imagination. The quirky cast of characters and handson interactives break down the process step-by-step to reveal how animated features are created. Animationland empowers visitors of all ages to experiment, learn, and tell their own stories through animation. “Ways of My Ancestors: We are Nipmuc. We are the Freshwater People,” through Feb. 25. Permanent Exhibit: State-of-the-art Zeiss Projector and updated International Space Station exhibit. The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum: Permanent exhibit. First-floor exhibition provides interactive three-dimensional exhibits. Second floor contains Geisel’s personal memorabilia. 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: Permanent exhibit: Hands-on activities and creative exhibits, including the Hurricane Simulator. Sign up online for a play session at ameliaparkmuseum.org. Hours:
Astaire Dance, Bridal Corner/ Ron’s Formal Wear, Nicole Wzorek Designs Gowns & Lingerie, and music by saxophonist Quinn Mitchell. One lucky couple will also win a grand prize package which you can register for online or at the show that
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 S. Broad St., Westfield. Anchor House of Artists: The New England Visionary Artists Museum. Always new ways of looking through the eyes of artists. Seeking curator projects in the 2024 season. Preferred projects (talk and exhibit) present selftrained New England artists living or deceased who work outside the academic tradition. For more information, visit neva-museum. org, email vision@neva-museum. org, or call 413-588-4337. The best least-known gallery in the Pioneer Valley. Free public receptions on the 2nd Fri. of the month from 5-8 p.m. email: artists@anchorhouseartists.org, anchorhouseartists. org; 413-588-4337. 518 Pleasant St., Northampton Children’s Museum at Holyoke: Permanent exhibit: Amazing world of learning and play. Hours: 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. Admission: Children & adults $8; deniors (62+) $5; children under 1 and members 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. Hours: 1-3 p.m. on the 3rd Saturday of the month, Sept - June, weather permitting. New exhibits and events are planned. All are welcomed and admittance is free. Special tours are available upon request by contacting Bruce Moore at 413-525-3072. 87 Maple St., East Longmeadow Eric Carle Museum of Picture
SEE CALENDAR, PAGE E11
includes a tuxedo package, invitations gift certificate, cake certificate, engagement photo session and more. Additional door prizes will be given away at the fashion show stage. For more information about this weekend’s show, visit jenksproductions.com.
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THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
Calendar CONTINUES FROM PAGE E10 Book Art: Permanent exhibit: 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. Museum hours: Weds.-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. Historic Deerfield: Exhibit: “Garden of Hearts: Madeline Yale Wynne & Deerfield’s Arts and Crafts Movement. Through March 3. 80 Old Main St., Deerfield or historic-deerfield.org. Historic Northampton Museum and Education: Permanent exhibit. Hours: Wed.-Sun. noon-5 p.m. $5 suggested donation, 46 Bridge St., Northampton or historic-northampton.org. Holyoke Heritage State Park: “Forest, Field, and Flower,” through Feb. 27. “Intimate landscapes from the Connecticut River Valley to Cape Cod,” an exhibit of paintings by Holyoke resident Russell Steven Powell. Free, https://www.mass. gov/locations/holyoke-heritage-state-park. Permanent exhibit. Preserving the history and culture of Holyoke through permanent exhibits on the paper and textile industry. Featuring a scale model of Mountain Park. Visitor Center open Tues.-Sun, noon-4 p.m. Closed
Wine
Mondays. Free. 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. 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. Norman Rockwell Museum: Permanent exhibit: Gallery. Hours: Thurs.-Mon. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Tues. and Wed. Advance tickets purchase required; $20 adults; $18 seniors, AAA, retired military; $10 college students; free children ages 18 and under, members and active military. “Norman Rockwell: Winter Wonderland.” Through Feb.25. “Between Worlds: The Art and Design of Leo Lionni.” Through May 27. 9 Route 183, Stockbridge or nrm.org. Old Sturbridge Village: “For the Purpose of Illumination.” Learn how New Englanders needed, used, and created artificial lighting methods in the 1830s and see firsthand artifacts from the era. Route 20, Sturbridge or osv.org. Pan African Historical Museum USA: Permanent exhibit: Exhibi-
wines. Noughty Dealcoholized Blanc ($24.99 SRP) CONTINUES FROM PAGE E9 Location: South Africa Tasting notes for Grapes: 55% chenin blanc alcohol-free wines and 45% chardonnay A quick overall observation. Tasting notes: Extremely As I noted above, I think it’s tart, crisp wine with green important to think about apple like flavors with a alcohol-free wines as being zingy, slightly-sweet yet also their own distinct category. dry, cider-like finish. In general, if you like natural Saint Viviana Sauvignon wines and hard ciders, I Blanc ($22.99 SRP) think you’ll like a lot of these Location: Washington no-alcohol wines. Here are Grapes: Sauvignon blanc my individual wine notes. Tasting notes: Intense, bold, hard cider-like flavor Giesen New Zealand Pi- with a hint of sourness. not Grigio ($16 Suggested Great wine with spicy foods Retail Price) or anything with concentratLocation: New Zealand ed flavors. Grapes: Pinot grigio Saint Viviana Cabernet Tasting notes: Delightful, Sauvignon ($22.99 SRP) aromatic, floral wine with Location: Paso Robles, tart apple-like flavor and California aroma. Very subtle and not Grapes: Cabernet Sauvitoo sweet. A great alcognon hol-free wine to introduce Tasting notes: Light, floral people to these types of red wine with hints of cherry
tions by local artists. Hours: Tues.Fri. noon-4 p.m. Free. 1500 Main St., Springfield, 413-733-1823. Polish Center of Discovery and Learning: Permanent exhibit: 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. Smith College Museum of Art: Permanent exhibits: “Ancient World Gallery, Beyond the Museum: Art on Smith’s Campus.” Hours: Tues.Sun. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., closed Mondays and major holidays. Smith College Museum of Art (SCMA) is free to all starting immediately. Elm Street at Bedford Terrace, Northampton or scma.smith.edu. 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.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 11, 2024 | E11
members. 67 East Road, Adams or susanbanthonybirthplace.com. The Emily Dickinson Museum: Homestead and Evergreens: Permanent exhibit. Open Wed.Sun. 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Admission to the museum is by guided tour, for which advance-purchased 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. 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 Contemporary Art - Fine Arts Center: Permanent exhibit. 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 Thursdays until 8 p.m. Closed Mon., holidays, and academic breaks. Check for snow days online at umass.edu. 151 Presidents Drive, Amherst
$18 adults, $17 seniors (65+), $10 students with ID, $7 children 5-17, and free for children 4 and younger. Ghost Tours with Robert Oakes: Jan. 12, 27; Feb. 10, 24, 8 p.m. This is not an active investigation. Admission is $30 and minimum age to attend is age 12. Reservations are strongly recommended as tickets are limited. Walk-ins accommodated as space allows. For reservations visit gildedage.org or call 413-6373206. Payment is required to make a reservation for an event. 104 Walker St., Lenox. West Springfield Town Museum: Permanent exhibit. The museum is open every first Sat. of the month from 1-3 p.m. Items on display include hand-built models of early town buildings and other structures, local artifacts and historic items from the Civil War, Mittineague Park and Bear Hole area, as well as other local historic items and displays. 55 Altamont Ave., West Springfield
Windsor Historical Society: Permanent exhibit: explore the people, places and events that have shaped Windsor for over four centuries. Hours: Wed.-Sat. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded with house tours at 11:30 a.m. and Susan B. Anthony Birthplace Mu- Age Museum: Permanent exhibit: 1:30 p.m. General admission to the seum: Permanent exhibit: Daniel guided tours of the first and second library and historic houses is $10 Anthony’s Store, The Legacy Room, floors. Weekdays from 11 a.m. to 3 for adults, 48 for seniors, $6 for The Birthing Room, The Portrait p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. students and free to children under Gallery. Winter hours: Fri.-Sun, 10 to 4 p.m. Self-guided tours are on 12 and WHS members. Visitors are a.m.-4 p.m., through May 26. $10 the hour with the last self-guidfree to browse the museums tore adults, $8 seniors, $6 students ed tour weekdays at 2 p.m. and and exhibit galleries at no charge. and children 6-17, free for children weekends at 3 p.m. Call to reserve 96 Palisade Ave., Windsor or under 6 and NARM/NEMA/ROAM at 413-637-3206. Admission is windsorhistoricalsociety.org.
and raspberry. Almost Beaujolais like in flavor and aroma. Over time in the glass, those flavors become woodsy and softer. French Bloom Alcohol-Free Sparkling Wine, Le Rose ($44 SRP) Location: Southwest France Grapes: Blend of chardonnay and pinot noir Tasting notes: My favorite wine of the tasting, this bright, lively, fresh, floral sparkling wine hits all the right notes. Flavors and aromas are subtle and include hints of rose petals and peach. A truly delightful French sparkling wine that just happens to not have any alcohol. Cheers! Wine Press by Ken Ross appears on Masslive.com every Monday and in The Republican’s Weekend section every Thursday.
Beer
Beer sales aren’t horrible; it just has lost market share to other types of alcohol. Last CONTINUES FROM PAGE E9 year was the first time beer legal adults in the country, came in second place for with just 58% respondents market share: Spirits edged saying they had consumed out beer 42.9% to 41.2% as far alcohol in the past six months as market share. and just 56% of that group So let’s not think the sky is had drunk actual beer. falling (and it certainly seems It seems obvious that the like Skye Vodka isn’t falling), legalization of marijuana in but instead let’s keep celebratmany states has also pilfered ing the Golden Age of Beer we some market share from beer. live in, by raising a glass – of Again, the younger generabeer, of course. tion seems to be gravitating toward weed over booze. And predictions from market analysts say sales will not level off anytime soon, certainly not in 2024. But everything is relative: Considering beer enjoyed more than a decade of extremely robust sales, it can probably take a hit. And the main indicator of beer’s Subscribe Today! flatlining was pointed out in a 1-877-580-4159 Slate article midway last year:
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Bowzer CONTINUES FROM PAGE E6
who followed us around Europe during our tour. Can you imagine, Keith Moon?” Bauman said. When Bauman left Sha Na Na, he began to step out of his Bowzer character and serve as a game show host for the “Match Game-Hol-
Garden during the One to One benefit concert for Willowbrook. The historic performance saw John Lennon with Yoko Ono and Elephant’s Memory sharing a bill with Stevie Wonder, Roberta Flack and none other than Sha-Na-Na. The finale featured all of the show’s performers sharing the stage to join Lennon in an unforgettable perfor-
Tickets for Sunday’s show - ranging in price from $42 to $145 - are available in person at the Mohegan Sun box office or at ticketmaster.com. lywood Squares Hour” on NBC and the nationally syndicated “Pop ‘N’ Rocker Game.” He then spent two years as one of the original “VJ’s” on the music channel “VH-1,” appeared in several episodes of the “Miami Vice” television show, and provided voice-overs for animated series like “Animaniacs” and films including “My Little Pony,” and he produced a number of television shows on the history of doo-wop and rock ‘n’ roll. He also performed with his own group, Bowzer and the Stingrays, at casinos, theatres, fairs, amusement parks, cruise ships and conventions all over the country and the world. “What I learned during that time was that I didn’t like working for others. Sha Na Na was a partnership and we were in charge of ourselves, except for the television show. And I discovered that is was never going to be as much fun as being on stage as Bowzer, this very hi-energy, goofy, fun guy,” Bauman said. While Bauman grew up immersed in the sounds of the ’50s and early ’60s, that didn’t detract him from the love of other music, particularly The Beatles and the many musical acts and other genres that have followed the doo-wop and early rock and roll days. He was, in fact, a Beatlemaniac. He noted “one of my greatest musical memories” was performing on stage at Madison Square
mance of his classic “Give Peace A Chance.” “I was up there with ShaNa-Na when all of a sudden Lennon motioned for me to come up and share the microphone with him. What could be better? I still have a photo of us at the microphone that a photographer took and what is unusual is that John was out of focus and I was in focus in the photo. It is the most prized photograph in my collection, my son even asked me for a copy. And I perpetually ask myself why a photographer would take a photo with an out-of-focus Lennon next to me,” Bauman said. As for Sunday’s show, Bauman said he will do a little music with the Stingrays, but that he will mainly function as the show’s master of ceremonies introducing and telling stories about each group performing. “It is important to me to have authentic people on stage who were authentic members of the group performing, which is true for our show at Mohegan Sun,” Bauman said. He is chairman of the Truth in Music Committee at the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, which has succeeded in passing a law to help protect consumers from impostor groups that try to pass themselves off as the real thing in live performances. Tickets for Sunday’s show - ranging in price from $42 to $145 - are available in person at the Mohegan Sun box office or at ticketmaster.com.
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