Weekend - February 08, 2024 by repubnews

For the latest WMass happenings, visit masslive.com/entertainment

Weekend

E |

LIVE WIRE: Valentine’s Day events on tap in Western Mass, E3 TRAILER TRASH: Free Music Fridays continues at MGM Springfield, E4 ‘LADIES OF COMEDY’: Jane Condon, Christine Hurley perform in Amherst, E5

| THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024

It’s a

slam dunk! Harlem Globetrotters return to MassMutual Center, Page E2 THE 40TH ANNUAL

NEW ENGLAND’S LONGEST-RUNNING COLLEGIATE A CAPPELLA SHOWCASE

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 11 2:00PM • JOHN M. GREENE HALL • SMITH COLLEGE

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SPRINGFIELD

IT’S A SLAM DUNK!

Harlem Globetrotters return to Springfield’s MassMutual Center on Friday

A Harlem Globetrotter dunks the ball at Wings Event Center in Kalamazoo, Mich., on Jan. 22, 2020. (KENDALL WARNER / MLIVE.COM)

By Keith O’Connor

Special to The Republican

he world-famous Harlem Globetrotters, known for their extraordinary athleticism and comedy showmanship, will dribble, spin, and slam dunk their way into Springfield’s MassMutual Center on Friday. Now on their 2024 World Tour, the Harlem Globetrotters began the domestic leg of the tour the day after Christmas and will continue through the spring. Later they will embark on their Military Tour until the summer arrives and they begin on the international leg of the world tour set for stops in Eastern and Western Europe, United Kingdom, Asia, South and Central America, and India.

Hops Pearce, a member of the Harlem Globetrotters, will be on hand for the show at Springfield’s MassMutual Center. (PHOTO COURTESY HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS)

Along for the ride in Springfield will be Globetrotter star Hops Pearce, who adds to the Globetrotters’ growing list of some of the best dunkers on the planet — and we’re not talking about Oreo cookies. “Dunking, in my opinion, is the most entertaining move you can do on the court. I was inspired by NBA greats like Vince Carter and Nate Robinson, both of whom have won many slam dunk contests. When I was young, I would watch their

moves, then go outside and imitate what they were doing by using a trampoline to reach the hoop,” Pearce said. It was while in the third grade that Pearce said he “discovered the power of a basketball.” “The ball is so unique in its ability to unify people. I’m from New York and there are courts all over the place. I found it interesting that people would be playing basketball at a park, many of whom didn’t know one another. These folks who I

never knew before are my friends now,” he said. From the New York basketball courts, Pearce then went on the play the game in high school and in college. A standout student-athlete at Purchase College in Harrison, New York, he captained the men’s basketball team during his senior year. He also studied economics and earned a spot at one of the top finance internships in the country via Forbes. com. He made the dean’s SEE HARLEM, PAGE E7

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024 | E3

Valentine’s Day events on tap in WMass

Nightclubs THURSDAY The Drake: Daniel Donatos Cosmic Country. 44 N. Pleasant St., Amherst

FRIDAY Delaney House: Alex Touhey. 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke MGM Springfield: MGM Free Music Friday-Aria Ballroom: Trailer Trash. 1 MGM Way, Springfield MGM Springfield: MGM Roar Comedy Club: Al Ducharme, Bernadette Pauley. 1 MGM Way, Springfield Shaker Farms Country Club: Tom Savoy. 866 Shaker Road, Westfield The Drake: Ladies of Comedy: Jane Condon and Christine Hurley. 44 N. Pleasant St., Amherst The Meeting House: Dave Brinnel. 827 Williams St., Longmeadow Theodores’: The Amplifiers. 201 Worthington St., Springfield West Springfield’s Irish House Restaurant & Pub: Salty Sisters. 429 Morgan Road, West Springfield

SATURDAY BOMBYX Center for Arts & Equity: Justin Adams & Mauro Durante. 130 Pine St., Florence Delaney House: Whiskey Wednesday. 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke MGM Springfield: MGM Roar Comedy Club: Al Ducharme, Bernadette Pauley. 1 MGM Way, Springfield The Drake: Ryan Montbleau with Brooks Forsyth. 44 North Pleasant

SEE NIGHTCLUBS, PAGE E12

HETHER YOU are in love or lovelorn, Western Massachusetts probably has a Valentine’s Day event for you over the next week. There is a ton of stuff going on, so let’s jump right in, with events listed chronologically. First up is an Anti-Valentine’s Day party at St. Stanislaus Polish Lyceum in Palmer on Friday. Rock 201 will be there to provide the music, which will probably be shaded toward the “Love Stinks” type of songs. St. Stan’s is at 2114 Main St. in the Three Rivers section of town. Next up, on Saturday, Bishop’s Lounge will offer an unusual twist on a Valentine’s Day party. You can dance pulsating beats in a blacklight atmosphere at the venue’s Halos and Horns Party, where patrons can dress up as angels or devils and win cash prizes for best costumes in couples, group, and single categories. Bishop’s Lounge is a 41 Strong Ave. in Northampton. Looking for something different? On both Saturday and Sunday, Bright Ideas Brewing in Westfield will hold a Valentine’s Day Weekend Arts and Craft Fair. The venue will have an array of creators setting up shop throughout the brewery so you can find the perfect gift for your

George Lenker Live Wire

St. On Valentine’s Day itself, real romantics might want to head over to JW Banquet Priscilla Porcelain is the drag show producer at The Majestic House in Chicopee. That’s Saloon in Northampton, where a Valentine’s Day party will be where you can find “Jazz held on Saturday. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN, FILE) Night for Valentines DinValentine. The venue will ton will hold a burlesque, ner and Dance” featuring have two totally different drag, go-go dance Valenvocalist Ethel Lee backed lineups on Saturday and tine’s Day party. The evening by Richie Mitnick on keySunday respectively, offerwill feature two sets of burboards. ing everything from pottery lesque and drag along with a Dinner is at 6:30 p.m. to candles to stitchwork to go-go dance party. The event JW Banquet House is at 60 herbals. will be hosted by Harley Cabot St. Bright Ideas is at 109 Apre- Foxx with music by DJ Cajar But if you’re down on the mont Way. Doors open at 8 p.m. and whole love thing on Feb. 14, Also on Saturday, the Mathe cover charge is $10. The you can head over to Nathan SEE LIVE WIRE, PAGE E5 jestic Saloon in NorthampMajestic Saloon is at 24 Main

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FREE MUSIC FRIDAYS

Trailer Trash Not your grandpa’s kind of country By Ashley Potter

apotter@repub.com

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BOB STANEK, TRAILER TRASH

Q. I saw that you guys

Q. What are some of

your band’s biggest inspirations?

A. It’s pretty varied. Every-

The Night will Feature

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The Keohane Irish Night And Kenneally in Irish-American Irish Night Holyoke 2024 Band in Holyoke 2024 art

artists live, you’ll realize that the guys that are in the bands are actually rock musicians. It’s not Buck Owens or Roy Clark or things like that. It’s definitely a rock show, and that’s the way we’re doing it. We also mix in modern rock and classic rock, as well as some hip-hop. It’s quite a varied setlist, to say the least. Our motto is “If it’s a good song, it’s a good song.”

IN MEMORY OF DANIEL P. CURRAN TO BENEFIT THE MAURICE A. DONAHUE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

wasn’t really anybody doing modern country at the time, which seemed to be one of the most popular genres out there. We took a hard look at that and started doing that. Our first show, we opened up for ourselves, believe it or not. Trailer Trash opened up for the old band, and there was roughly nine people in the room. We kind of grew it from there. Once the club owners heard what we were doing, it wasn’t too hard to get bookings. The tricky part was to grow the setlist and to get people to show up.

thing from jazz music for mydescribe your sound as self, to Led Zeppelin, Lynyrd “not your grandpa’s kind of Skynyrd, Rush, and some of country” on your website. the modern country bands. Can you elaborate on that? Anything that’s good. I’m We are all experienced not pigeon-holed into one band guys. We’ve been around since the ’90s, playing If you listen to the songs type of music, and I don’t out in different bands and on on the radio, the original think the rest of the band is, the club scene. Around 2011, songs, versus the way we either. Our bass player has a 2010, the band we were all play them, we’ve made most massive metal background, in together was one of about of them our own. We’re still for example. a dozen bands that were technically a rock band. We’re all competing for the same billed as a country band, that’s So is there some metal primarily what our setlist is, thrown in there too? crowd, basically all playing the same type of music. There but if you see some of these SEE TRAILER, PAGE E6

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“Our motto is ‘If it’s a good song, it’s in a good song.’” 2024

more about Trailer Trash? You guys are no stranger to performing in Western Massachusetts, but what is your story?

(THE REPUBLICAN, FILE PHOTOS)

Q. Can you tell me a little

Members of the band Trailer Trash perform during past shows in downtown Springfield.

They’re country, but they’re not your grandpa’s idea of country. Trailer Trash — which bills itself as a modern country band — is no stranger to Western Massachusetts, having performed across the region at places like Fountain Park in Wilbraham, Holyoke Heritage State Park and The Student Prince in Springfield. Now the group is making a return downtown for a free concert at MGM Springfield as part of the casino’s Free Music Fridays, Winter Edition series. The concert will be staged in the Aria Ballroom on Feb. 9 at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 7. “Put on a pair of boots and a cowboy hat if you like, or just come as you are,” the band’s website states. Trailer Trash is made up of the talent of Joe Fazio, lead vocalist and guitarist; Jeff DeCarli, keyboard and vocals; Bill Brault, bass and vocals; Bob Stanek, guitar and vocals; and Jim Stanek, drums. Bob Stanek took time out for a phone interview with The Republican before Friday’s concert. The following interview has been edited for length and clarity.

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e re d i n Ho l y o k e in Additional Entertainment by IN MEMORY OF DANIEL P. CURRAN TOSchool BENEFIT * The Cassin of Irish Dance and Matt Connor of The Springfield THE MAURICE A. DONAHUE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP IN MEMORY OF DANIEL P. CURRAN TO BENEFIT THE MAURICE A. DONAHUE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Kiltie Band

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The Nightwill will Feature The Night Feature The Keohane The Keohane And Kenneally And Kenneally Irish-American Band

Irish-American Additional Entertainment by Band * The Cassin School of Irish Dance by Additional Entertainment

Matt Connor of The Springfield * and The Cassin School of Irish Dance and A Corned Beef and Kiltie Band

Matt O’Connor of Cabbage Dinner withand Ribs

The Springfield Kiltie Band

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024 | E5

AMHERST

‘Ladies of Comedy’ take stage at The Drake By Keith O’Connor

Comedian Jane Condon, pictured, will star in “Ladies of Comedy” along with Christine Hurley at The Drake in Amherst. (ANNIE WATSON PHOTO)

“I’m 72 and Medicare is my friend.”

husband and kids, and even her age are not off limits. If Jane Condon is even half “One of my classic jokes as funny as she is during is that ‘I’ve been married interviews, then audiences a long time. I am pro same are going to be rolling in the sex. I’ve had the same sex aisles on Friday at The Drake for 45 years,’” Condon said, JANE CONDON in Amherst when she and who also makes fun of her fellow comedian Christine give that joke up. What sacri- husband’s snoring, acting out Hurley star as the “Ladies of fices we make for our kids,” what several of his snoring Comedy.” she added. fits look like. Comedian and a mom, she That is a very short intro“I’m 72 and Medicare is boasts, Condon tells everyone duction to her comedy shtick my friend,” she added, once that she lives in Greenwich, and what audiences can telling a younger audience Connecticut, “but “I’m still a expect to hear about Friday. at a comedy club, “That’s nice person.” The Associated Press OK, I have Medicare and you Originally from Brockton, dubbed Condon “an upperdon’t.” Condon still calls Massachu- crust Roseanne” and The Condon is the grand prize setts home. New York Times wrote, winner of the nationwide “Brockton, it’s a tough “Condon had the audience Ladies of Laughter Contest. town. A gunshot is our way of cackling, guffawing and She won “Audience Favorite saying hello,” she said. in hysterics as she sliced — NY” on NBC’s “Last Comic Condon has two boys, now through marriage, husband, Standing.” Beyond those adults. kids, politics and other topgigs, she had the honor to be “Otherwise, everything’s ics.” asked to give the commencefine,” Condon said. But forget the politics now. ment speeches at Wellesley “I actually had good news “Comedians have always College, her alma mater, recently, one of my sons is fi- made fun of presidents. But I University of New Haven and nally going to be a father. For got heckled by Trumpists who Wilson College. years I’ve been doing a joke didn’t think the jokes were She was named one of “10 about having no grandkids, funny. So, no more,” Condon Comedy Best Bets” in Back and that if it didn’t happen said about the risky proposiStage’s annual comedy issue. soon, I would be ordering one tion today. She has appeared on ABCon Amazon. Now I have to However, her marriage, TV’s “The View” and LifeSpecial to The Republican

CONTINUES FROM PAGE E3

People. Plant. Purpose.

counterterrorism agent Jack Bauer. “I loved watching ‘24’ while it was on. I especially loved Chloe, an analyst with the Counter Terrorism Unit, who I always said should marry Jack. When I was talking

SEE ‘COMEDY’, PAGE E6

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Bill’s in Springfield where there will be an Anti-Valentine’s Day party featuring DJ BBV. Nathan Bill’s is at 110 Island Pond Road. Last but not least, on Feb. 15, the Northampton Arts Council will present “LOVE YOU!” — a post-Valentine’s Day Arts Cabaret. The party will showcase the talent of the artistic vision of each of council’s recent grant recipients. The event is free, open to the public and will take place at the Smith College Conference Center at 49 College Lane on the Smith College Campus from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

time television’s “Girls’ Night Out,” Nickelodeon’s “Nick Mom Night Out,” as well as NBC’s “Last Comic Standing” and the “Today” show. And she even made an appearance on the series finale of FOX-TV’s popular “24” series starring Kiefer Sutherland as

SpringfieldMuseums.org •

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‘Comedy’ about ‘24’ during a performance, I was bombing and had to truck through the silence. I looked at the audience and said, ‘Oh, you folks don’t watch television and only read things like the Wall Street Journal and Scientific American,” Condon said. But she was rewarded for talking about “24.” “After the show, this guy came to the stage and told me he was the executive producer (Howard Gordan) of ‘24’ and that I should be on it. It was like I had died and gone to heaven. His people called me and asked if I could fly across the country the next day to appear as an analyst with CTU. It was a highpoint for me; my dad was an FBI agent,” Condon said. Condon during her interview with The Republican wanted to be sure her co-star, Christine Hurley, get publicity as well. “Our goal for the Amherst show is to make people forget about the world around them for an hour or two. And I couldn’t be bringing a better person with me. Christine will literally make you pee in your pants. I did,” Condon

said One of the most booked comics on the East Coast, Hurley has performed several times at the Boston Garden for Denis Leary’s Comics Come Home” show that supports the Cam Neely Cancer Foundation. She has also been seen on Nick at Nite’s “Search for America’s Funniest Mom Contest,” Season 9 of the “The Great Food Truck Race” on the Food Network and “America’s Got Talent.” Hurley is a regular at Aruba Ray’s Comedy Club in Aruba, Montreal Comedy Festival, and Laugh Factory in Las Vegas. Prior to the show, there will be a pop-up market, free for general entry, from 6-7:30 p.m. Shop owners of Art of Intimates, Julie Noland Jewelry, and Botanica Home will be setting up shop for some pre-Valentine’s Day shopping and ready to assist customers with picking out the perfect item for home or a gift for someone or even yourself. General admission tickets are $15 in advance and $20 day of show. Doors open at 6 p.m. For more information, visit thedrakeamherst.org. Also, if you want to continue with a good laugh every day, follow @jcondon4 on Instagram.

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

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Polish American Citizens Club

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CONTINUES FROM PAGE E5

Trailer Trash performs during the Free Music Concert Series in 2021. (PHOTO COURTESY TRAILER TRASH)

Trailer CONTINUES FROM PAGE E4

A. It depends on what you

consider metal. That’s a wide net, too, if you talk about metal. We’ll play some Papa Roach, things like that, so we’re definitely approaching it, but we’re not doing Slayer or anything like that.

believe the response we got. We’re playing the winter concert series (Feb. 9) and we’re working on a booking for the summer concert series.

Q. Anything else in the works for Trailer Trash?

Not currently, no. We’re pretty busy. We all have full-time jobs and we all have families. For the amount of shows that we And do you have any play, the biggest question favorite songs that you get we get is, “How do you guys to perform? do it?”

Q. Anything else you’d like to add?

We really appreciate the support that we’ve been given over the years, and we do our best to keep the show as fresh as possible. We’re just five guys having fun in front of an audience that’s having fun, and we try not to take that for granted.

Q. A.

I don’t know about a favorite. We do know well over 200 songs and we try to change up the setlist at least monthly now, so it’s varied.

Q. For sure. How do you balance everything?

A. Right, how do you

Q. How does it feel to

balance it? We have a pretty good method of doing it, with a shared calendar. Family comes first.

A. MGM is always a good

family come out to the concerts a lot?

be coming back to MGM Springfield to perform? time. Lots of people actually come to see us there, it’s pretty impressive. We played outdoors the summer before last, and there were tornado warnings that were expiring at 5 o’clock. We started at 7:30 and the whole outdoor area was just jam-packed full of people. I couldn’t

Q. And do you guys have A.

The kids come once in a while. We’re their parents, so it’s no big deal for them, they hear it all the time. When we play Fourth of July in East Longmeadow or other town concerts, they’re definitely there. On the bar scene, they’re not.

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A box of chocolate (stouts) for Valentine’s Day

E OFTEN DEscribe aromatic hops in terms of their floral aspects, but for this Valentine’s Day, readers are going to have to settle for chocolates without much in the way of flowers. In honor of the annual celebration of love, today we will look at a six-pack of the best chocolate stouts out there. So without further ado, let’s unwrap these delicious treats: Founders Kentucky Breakfast Stout If you’re looking for chocolate in a beer, it’s hard to beat KBS. Consistently rated high by beer critics, this dark dream of a brew packs a one-two punch of cocoa and coffee, and doesn’t shy away from its own booziness. You definitely can sense the 12% ABV at the back end of the flavor. Aged in bourbon barrels, this imperial stout is silky and smooth like a perfect paramour’s touch. Samuel Smith Organic Chocolate Stout If you prefer a more subtle approach to your sweet tooth, or if you care about using organic ingredients, Sam Smith has got you covered with this 5% ABV beer. It not only features organic malted barley, but also uses organic cane sugar, organic hops and organic cocoa extract. The chocolate is more subdued on the palate but you can get a good sense of its inclusion in the aroma. This is just a nicely done and tasty stout. Otter Creek Couch Surfer This is a different sort of chocolate offering, as it’s an oat stout. The nose is a robust combination of cocoa and maybe some fruit notes, while the flavor brings plenty of chocolate wallop with a nice balancing weight of grainy oats. It’s only 5.4% ABV, so you can have more than one.

George Lenker Beer Nut

Southern Tier Choklat This beer is almost criminally chocolate-flavored. If you order one of these after a meal, you should definitely not order a dessert: It’s a dessert unto itself. But although the aroma is very sweet, the flavor is not. The taste added a bittersweet note or two, and the hop presence keeps things under control. At 10% ABV, it’s a banger, but you probably only want one of these rich brews anyway. Two Roads Brewing Unorthodox Stout This is a Russian imperial stout, coming in at 9.2% ABV. This is another choice if you want the chocolate aspects to land more subtly on the palate. The coffee notes are equally evident and the sweetness is toned down, probably due to the use of rye in the grain bill. It also has a muscular hop presence that makes for a definitely unorthodox stout. Oskar Blues Brewing Barrel Aged Ten Fidy There’s a lot going on here: Yes, there is chocolate, but also vanilla, espresso and even a hint of dark fruits in the mix. It’s more straightforward roasted malt notes than sweet cocoa, and that provides a nice dry finish. It’s another big puncher at 12.5% ABV.

What are your favorite chocolate stouts? Reach me at geolenker@yahoo.com.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024 | E7

Harlem CONTINUES FROM PAGE E2

list on numerous occasions as well as multiple honor roll lists throughout his collegiate career. Pearce won the 2018 Dark Horse Dunk Competition during Final Four weekend and also participated in the NCAA College Slam Dunk Competition representing Purchase College. Onlookers were stunned by one of his most prolific dunks — a one-handed self-alley-oop slam dunk while filming himself with a cellphone camera. That comical move and his extraordinary dunking ability caught the eye of a Globetrotter scout and the rest, as they say, “is history.” Pearce noted he understands the tremendous responsibility Youngsters enjoy a past Harlem Globetrotters show at the that comes with being a HarMassMutual Center. (THE REPUBLICAN, FILE) lem Globetrotter — a team that is considered the “Ambassateams. Also, for an extra $100 Winners of 2 Cynopsis Sports dors of Goodwill” worldwide. for a Celebrity Court Pass, atMedia Awards and Emmy® “We have a heavy focus on tendees can get on the court for nominated for their hit NBC impacting whatever commuan up-close view of the Globe- weekly series, “Harlem Glonity we visit as players. For trotters during their pre-game betrotters: Play it Forward,” example, we often visit schools warmup and more. There is they continue to break barriers and talk about anti-bullying. also the exclusive Harlem and stand as leaders across We visit kids in hospitals and Globetrotters VIP Bench diversity, equity, and incluso much more,” he said. Experience, and if you want sion. Proud inductees into the Asked if he feels bad about to sit with the losers, there is Naismith Memorial Basketball always beating the Washinga Washington Generals VIP Hall of Fame, their mission ton Generals, Pearce said, Bench Experience as well. continues to advance the “No.” Regular tickets range in game of basketball and deliver “It is important to show up price from $37 to $110. exciting and interactive enterevery single night and take The World-Famous Hartainment to the world. pride in winning. The last time lem Globetrotters team has Showtime is 7 p.m. For they beat us was in 1971, so it showcased their iconic brand tickets and additional inforhas been quite some time,” he of basketball in over 124 coun- mation on the several optional added. tries and territories across upgrades, visit massmutual What the Globetrotters do six continents since 1926. center.com. know is that they need to really be on their game this tour. The Washington Generals have united with a new optimism and are dreaming the seemingly impossible dream — their first win since 1971 — and they are ready to do whatever it takes to win. Will it be in Springfield? Fans will have to wait and see. In addition to sitting in the stands, there are other ways to enjoy the Harlem Globetrotter experience, including Couples toy kits, lingerie, & the Magic Pass Pre-Show for massage products!* an additional $30. The special ticket offers the opportunity February 7 - 14 to shoot some hoops on the *In-store only. Cannot be combined with any other offers. court and get photographs and autographs with the two 18 Main St, Greenfield, MA 01301 | (413) 774-9800

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E8 | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024

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Valentine’s Week

WITH TABLE 3

Table 3 has some great options for your Valentine’s celebration.

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 13–17. To celebrate with that someone special, please visit theducksturbridge.com for on-line reservations or call 508-347-2321. We expect to fill up quickly so don’t delay. CEDAR STREET GRILLE will be open for some amazing Valentine’s specials Wednesday through Sunday, February 14–18. 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–2pm. Valentine’s is always busy, so visit cedarstreetgrille.com to make your reservation now or call 508-347-5800.

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WEEKEND

Restaurants prepare for Valentine’s Day rush

INING OUT HAS become one of America’s favorite ways to observe Valentine’s Day, with the National Restaurant Association reporting that around 70 million consumers typically celebrate Cupid’s holiday with a restaurant meal. The mystique of a romantic dinner for two has become a powerful tool the restaurant industry uses to market itself, especially during the runup to Feb. 14. But what, in fact, should the ideal of a romantic dinner be, and can how can restaurants deliver on that promise? Countless stories, films, and songs portray the romantic dinner for two, making it about soft lighting, intimate surroundings and a transcendent meal experience. The reality of what most restaurants are prepared to offer during Valentine’s Day week is quite different, however. Many restaurants are ready to cash in on the promise of a Dining space is at a preromantic evening for two this Valentine’s Day — but just how mium, so tables are pushed romantic is dining out on the holiday? close together. The reserWednesday, Feb. 28, at 6:30 vations book is full, so the p.m. restaurant’s staff is motivated To be held at Table 3’s to get patrons in and out function venue in Sturbridge, as quickly as possible. The The Barn at Wight Farm, menu experience itself is unthe Game Dinner will be the likely to be what the kitchen’s handiwork of two Table 3 best at, but instead is often chefs, Toney Pitts and Devin an overpriced assortment of Senior. dishes that are popular and The six-course dinner is easy to prepare. priced at $75 per person and After all, Valentine’s Day is, Hugh Robert includes dessert and coffee. for most restaurants, one of Off The Menu Tax and gratuity, however, the busiest days of the year, are additional. For more and every effort needs to be five-star temple of gastrondetails or to inquire about focused on maximizing the omy. reservations for the event, revenue generated. What makes a dinner call 774-241-8450. There’s also a perceptual • Miami-based Burger flaw in the popular image of a truly “romantic” is sharing it, King has introduced a new romantic dinner for two. For regardless of setting, with a most of us, a dinner’s roman- special someone who brings a variant on the Whopper, its tic status is a function of who glimmer of sparkle and shine signature sandwich. Available since Jan. 29, the we are with, not what we eat to our lives. Candied Bacon Whopper or where we consume it. A adds garlic aioli, bacon jam fast food burger and a shared Side Dishes • The Table 3 Restaurant and brown-sugar-candied order of fries enjoyed on a bacon strips to the Whopper’s street-corner park bench can Group in Sturbridge has anbe as infused with passion as nounced that it is presenting regular garnishes of lettuce a six-course Game Dinner on can an elegant evening in a SEE MENU, PAGE E12

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024 | E9

Port, sherry and other dessert wines for Valentine’s Day

ALENTINE’S DAY should be a fun, romantic time to celebrate with someone

special. But believe me, I’m not naive. I know some people don’t feel the same way. Even I have mixed feelings about the holiday. Restaurants are often packed and overpriced that night. I was once dumped on Valentine’s Day — right after I took my date out to dinner. So when I was single I often didn’t even give the holiday much thought. Thank you, skiing. But, in general, I will admit I have grown to really like Valentine’s Day. It’s sort of an uncool guilty pleasure, like some of the Hallmark movies I actually found myself enjoying a few weeks ago. (“Hitched For The Holidays” and “Christmas Inheritance” were far better than I expected.) I also enjoy Valentine’s Day because it gives my wife and I an excuse to have a nice meal at home with some great wine. So if you plan to do the same this Valentine’s Day, I thought this would be a great time to write about dessert wines. Some of these wines can definitely be on the sweeter side. Others can be a bit strong. But all of them have one thing in common — they’re delicious, in my opinion. And whichever dessert wine you choose, it should pair well with all the candy and desserts many of us have on Valentine’s Day. Hope you enjoy.

Ken Ross Wine Press

Some of these wines can definitely be on the sweeter side. Others can be a bit strong. But all of them have one thing in common — they’re delicious, in my opinion. nillo and Touriga Nacional. There are many different types of port wine, including ruby port, tawny port and white port. Differences in port often depend on how long the grapes are aged before bottling, as well as whether they’re aged in stainless steel tanks (ruby port) or wooden barrels (tawny port). Recommended wine: Graham’s Six Grapes Reserve Port ($26.99 for 750 ml bottle at Table & Vine in West Springfield), a beautiful, blended Port from one of Portugal’s best Port producers. Drink within a week after opening the bottle for ideal freshness. SHERRY

Another fortified wine, Sherry is made with white wine grapes grown in southern Spain near the city of Jerez. Sherries come in a wide PORT range but primarily in four difA fortified wine (distilled ferent types: Fino (the lightest alcohol is added) from Portu- and driest sherry); amontillagal’s Douro region made with do (slightly darker than fino); red wine grapes. A wide range oloroso (slightly darker than of grapes are used to make amontillado); and SEE WINE, PAGE E11 Port wine, including Tempra-

WEEKEND

E10 | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024

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CALENDAR Resilience Rising - A Fundraiser for NELCWIT: Fri.-Sat., 6 p.m. Ja’Duke Astrophysicist to Discuss Upcom- Theater, Rated G, Running time 90 ing total Solar Eclipse: Thu., 4:45 minutes (one intermission). Note: p.m. Hooker Auditorium at Mount Strobe and special lighting effects Holyoke College. Astrophysicist Dr. will be used throughout the show, Jenna Samra will discuss the up$12-$25. 110 Industrial Blvd, Turners coming total solar eclipse that will Falls, 413-863-0001 or jaduke.com. cross over North America in April Suffield Players Presents “Drinking in her talk, “Exploring the Sun’s Habits”: See Thursday listing Corona During a Total Solar Eclipse: Instrumentation and Observations.” SATURDAY This event is hosted by the Astronomy Department at Mount Holyoke 11th Annual Easthampton WinterCollege. There will be a meet-andFest: Sat, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Keystone greet event at 3 p.m. before the talk Mill, WinterFest is a major fundraisin the Kendade Atrium. Pizza and er to support the health of Nashalight refreshments will be served wannuck Pond. The festivities began after the talk. The event is open to Jan 1 with online events: Nash pond the public. To RSVP, visit https:// photo contest, snowflake making forms.gle/xBpeQSrboJxgVKsw8, contest, pond trivia and Mt Tom ice 50 College St., South Hadley cream flavor contest. In-person Win“A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and terFest activities include a historical Murder”: Thu.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 2 Ice Harvest on the Pond featuring p.m. Enfield Annex, $25. 124 North historian Dennis Picard, a nature Maple St., Enfield. walk at Arcadia, Clay Hill Farm draft Suffield Players Presents “Drinking horse wagon rides, a community Habits”: Thu.-Sat., 8 p.m., Mapleton fire by the pond, and Bumble will be there for photo ops. Easthampton Hall. For tickets, visit Fire Department will be having a suffieldplayers.org. $15 opening night, then $22 general, $19 seniors Polar Plunge. Also available will be a vendor/artisan/craft fair, Art in Mo(62+) and students for remaining shows. 1305 Mapleton Ave., Suffield, tion dance demonstration, magician, puppeteer, Spirit of the Heart martial 860-668-0837. arts, Family Jungle Entertainment, Wilbraham Women’s Club Feb. and a Yo-Yo expert at Keystone Mill. Meeting: Thu., noon, St. Cecilia Most events are free. 122 Pleasant Church. Luncheon will be a quiche St., Easthampton; 413-203-5942 or party, which will include salad, zingtt.com. rolls, and dessert. Reservations are

and the New England Transcendentalists,” 1046 South East Street, Amherst.

THURSDAY

required; call Michele Axtmann 413-596-3325. The speaker for the day will be David Bourcier, retired fire chief and a local historian from Wilbraham. 42 Main St., Wilbraham.

FRIDAY Faculty Concert: Fri., 7:30 p.m. Bezanson Recital Hall, featuring Giles Vonsattel, piano. Free. North Pleasant Street, Amherst, 413-5452511 or umass.edu. Funktionlust - Northampton High School Improv Troupe: Fri., 6:30 p.m., Click Workspace. The Northampton High School Improv troupe, Funktionlust, will perform their unpredictable show combining family-friendly hilarity and spontaneous story-making. Funktionlust is now in its 18th year at NHS. Also on view: “Structures for Spaciousness” by Kim Carlino. Doors open at 6pm, Free. 9 1/2 Market St., Northampton; clickworkspace.com. “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder”: See Thursday listing Music at Amherst Presents Raehann Bryce-Davis: Fri., 7:30 p.m. Buckley Recital Hall, general public $28; seniors 65+ $22; students with ID $12. Intersection of Routes 9 and 116, Amherst.

Close Encounters With Music PresentsThe Art of the String Quartet - The Avalon: Sun., 4 p.m. Saint James Place. For tickets, visit https://cewm.org/event/the-artof-the-string-quartet-the-avalon/, $52. 352 Main St., Great Barrington. “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder”: See Thursday listing Silver Chord Bowl 40th Anniversary: Sun., 2 p.m. John M. Greene Hall, $15-$40. College Lane, Northampton; smith.edu. UMass Opera - On the Air: See Saturday listing

Oren Anderson of Springfield photographs an ice sculpture of a guitar on Worthington Street during last year’s Ice Invasion. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

Springfield BID in partnership with the Springfield Thunderbirds. Note that warmer weather may increase the speed of the ice sculptures melting, so plan on attending earlier in the weekend if the weather is warm and the sun is out, Free for all, with optional fees for certain activities. 1390 Main St., Springfield. “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder”: See Thursday listing

130 Pine St., Florence. Murder Mystery Dinner Theater: Sat., 4:30 p.m. East Mountain Country Club, featuring the BUCC Playhouse Players. Happy hour, 4:30 p.m., buffet dinner and show at 5:30 p.m. Price includes gratuity and tax. Cash bar. For reservations, call 413-568-1539, $50 per person. 1458 East Mountain Rd., Westfield. 413-568-1539 or eastmountaincc. com/.

Quadrangle George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum: Permanent exhibit: “Ancient Treasures,” a display of artifacts from ancient China, Greece, Rome and Egypt. On the first Wed. of every month through the end of 2026, admission to the Springfield Museums is free. For more information, visit springfieldmuseums.org.

Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History: “Latinos en The Green Sisters: Sat., 7 p.m. CulSpringfield, Presente y Pasado / tural Center at Eagle Hill, Sprouting Resilience Rising - A Fundraiser for Latinos in Springfield Past and Presfrom a small farm in rural MassaNELCWIT: See Friday listing ent,” through March 3. Permanent chusetts, the four Green Sisters exhibit: More than two dozen Indian Springfield Symphony Orchestra: were raised with music accompany- Sat., 7:30 p.m. Springfield Sympho- motorcycles and related memora38th Annual High School Honor ing their chores. Their sound spans a ny Hall, “Havana Nights,” with guest bilia. Band Concert: Sat., 7 p.m. Tillis wide range of bluegrass, barbershop, conductor Nick Palmer, Camillie Michele and Donald D’Amour Concert Hall, formerly the Fine Arts blues, country, and lots of original Zamora, Mambo Kings. For tickets, Museum of Fine Arts: “A Gathering: Center Concert Hall. Free. 151 Presi- songs which fit right into the mix. visit symphonyhall.com, $35-$80. Works from Contemporary Black dents Drive, Amherst. 413-545-2511 $25 adults; $20 students & seniors. 34 Court St., Springfield. 413-733American Ceramic Artists,” through or fineartscenter.com. 242 Old Petersham Road, Hardwick; 2291 or symphonyhall.com. March 31. Museum a la Carte: 413-477-6746 or thecenterateagleArts and Crafts Supply Swap: Feb. 8, 12:15 p.m. “A Celebration of Suffield Players Presents “Drinking hill.org. Satn, noon, Forbes Library. Bring the Exhibit Latinos en Springfield, Habits”: See Thursday listing new or lightly used arts & crafts Lunar New year Celebration: Sat, Presente y Pasado.” Cost: $4, free for UMass Opera - On the Air: Sat., materials that you’re willing to share. 10 a.m. BOMBYX Center for Arts & members. 7:30 p.m.; Sun, 3 p.m. Bowker AudiYou don’t have to bring supplies to Equity, featuring authors/illustrator Springfield Science Museum: torium. Three-act operas by Barber, participate, though it is encouraged. Grace Lin and Jannie Ho. Come “Animationland,” through May 5. Moore & Menotti, presented as a Bring your own bag. All ages. Free. celebrate the Year of the Dragon. A quirky cast of characters and “radio program.” For tickets, visit fin20 West Street, Northampton; 413Families are invited to join High hands-on interactives break down eartscenter.com/musicanddance 587-1011 or forbeslibrary.org. Five Books at this all-ages Lunar the process step-by-step to reveal or call 413-545-2511, $25 general, New Year celebration as New York Beer and Wine Tasting: Sat, 6:30how animated features are created. $20 seniors, students and children Times-bestselling author/illustrator 9:30 p.m. St. Mary’s High School. “Ways of My Ancestors: We are Nip17 and under are free. 80 Campus The evening includes beer and wine Grace Lin reads from her latest book muc. We are the Freshwater People,” Center Way, Amherst. 413-545-2511 “Chinese Menu: The History, Myths, tasting, raffles, live entertainment, through Feb. 25. Permanent exhibit: or umasstix.com. and Legends Behind Your Favorite games, appetizers, desserts and State-of-the-art Zeiss Projector and Youth Social Justice Art WorkFoods.” Students from the Pioneer fun. Enjoy a variety of brews from updated International Space Station shops: Sat., UMass Amherst Center Valley Chinese Immersion Charter Westfield River Brewing, White exhibit. at Tower Square. Visit School will help enact a Reader’s Lion Brewery, Bright Ideas Brewing, The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss artforthesoulgallery.com for more Theater performance from the Loophole Brewery, Springfield Museum: Permanent exhibit. For details on specific workshop times. book. Grace will be joined by fellow Wine Exchange and Martignetti more information and to purchase All workshops in this series are free, Companies. Purchase tickets online author/illustrator Jannie Ho, who tickets, visit springfieldmuseums. 1500 Main St., Springfield. will read her book “Happy Chinese at stmsaints.org, Tickets are $30 org. New Year!: A Festive Counting per person and $50 per couple. 27 Quadrangle admission - $25 for adults, Story.” Kids are invited to stay and Bartlett St., Westfield. SUNDAY $16.50 for seniors (60+) and college craft, browse both creators’ books, Downtown Springfield Ice Invaand have copies signed. Presented in Amherst Historical Society Annual students with ID, $13 for children ages sion: Sat., 3-6 p.m. Nadim’s Down3-17; free to children under age 3 and collaboration with High Five Books Meeting: Sun., 2 p.m. Munson town Mediterranean Grill, Featuring members, Springfield residents are and the Pioneer Valley Chinese Library, The annual meeting will be ice sculptures, live music, hot soup free with proof of residency. Welcome Immersion Charter School, Pay what followed by a lecture by. Dr Julie bar, Vendors Village, interactive Center and Museum store. Tues.-Sat. you will in advance or at the door. Dobrow on “Mabel Loomis Todd activities and more. Presented by the 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

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WEEKEND

Wine CONTINUES FROM PAGE E9

Pedro Ximenez (the darkest, most luxurious sherry). The difference between them involves sugar levels. Fino sherry has the least amount of sugar, Pedro Ximenez has the most. Sugar levels vary often due to how long each sherry is aged in barrels and other factors. Recommended wine: Alvear ‘Solera 1927′ Pedro Ximénez Sherry ($26.99 for 500 ml bottle at Table & Vine), a rich, luscious, velvety sherry perfect after a big meal. Drink within one week after opening the bottle. ICE WINE

Ice wine is made from frozen grapes harvested after the first frost in the fall. This means the grapes are often Looking for a sweet wine for your sweetie this Valentine’s Day? Here are a few suggestions. the last grapes to be harvest- (KEN ROSS PHOTO) ed each year. Ice wine can be made with any kind of least 10 years old. Sauternes And if the grapes are left on is why I included Brandy in grape. But most often, most pair especially well with dark the vine even longer, they are this week’s wine column. ice wines are made from chocolate, blue cheese or even sweeter than Beerenau- Brandy can come from anyRiesling and Cabernet Franc French desserts like creme slese wines and called Trock- where in the world, but two grapes, two “lighter,” refresh- brulee or macarons. Let me enbeerenauslese. So again, of my favorites come from ing grapes ideally suited for add that if you can find half Auselese wines are sweet, France and you can read this delicate dessert wine. bottles instead of full bottles, Beerenauslese are sweeter more about them below. Because the grapes were I recommend buying a small- and Trockenbeerenauslese Recommended wine: E&J left on the vine so long, they er bottle since Sauternes are are the sweetest of the three. XO Brandy ($24.99 for 1.75 have more time to grow and best enjoyed in small quantiRecommended wine: liter bottle at Table & Vine), more time to soak up as much ties slightly chilled. 2021 Prum Riesling Wehlener a smooth American brandy sun as possible before being Recommended wine: Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese with vanilla-like flavor and harvested. As a result, they’re 2005 Chateau Rieussec ($79.99 for 750 ml bottle hints of brown sugar. Serve often sweeter and higher in Sauterne ($49.99 for 375 ml at Table & Vine), a slightly on its own, on ice or mixed alcohol. Germany, Austria bottle at Table & Vine), a sweet, delicate, golden-like with a dash of orange bitters. and Canada make some of the delightful, delicate Saturerne wine. Keep refrigerated and ARMAGNAC best ice wines. Served slightly from one of the best producdrink within a week after chilled. ers ready to drink now. Keep opening the bottle. Armagnac is a type of BranRecommended wine: refrigerated and drink within BRANDY dy from the Armagnac region Inniskillin Riesling Ice Wine a week after opening the in Southwest France. Arma($79.99 for 375 ml bottle from bottle. Technically, Brandy isn’t gnac is usually made with a Table & Vine), a delicious, wine. It’s distilled wine. blend of the following grapes AUSLESE sweet ice wine from Canada’s What’s the difference? Most — baco blanc, colombard, Niagara region. Keep refrigerNow, get ready to get really wine is made by fermenting folle blanche and ugni blanc. ated. Drink within two weeks confused. Auslese are sweeter grapes. In order to make Flavor wise, Armagnac tastes after opening the bottle. wines made with late harvest- distilled wine, the fermented a lot like Scotch or whiskey. ed grapes. In general, Auslese grapes then go through the So if you love stronger, darker SAUTERNE wines are made with late distillation process, which distilled spirits, you will Delightful, sweet dessert harvested riesling grapes, but separates the fermented liq- probably love Armagnac. wine from the Sauterne not always. That’s the easy uid from the non-fermented Best of all, like other distilled region in the Graves region of part. Now comes the tricky liquid, often through the use spirits, you don’t have to rush Bordeaux in southern France. part. There are several differ- of heat. The result is a sweet- to finish the bottle once it’s Sauterne wines are made with ent kinds of Auslese wines. er, higher alcohol liquid. open. It will last for months a blend of mostly Semillon Along with Auslese, there are Most Brandies are made with and stay fresh in the bottle. grapes, along with sauvignon two other types of Auslese grapes. However, they don’t Recommended wine: blanc and muscadelle. Let me wines — Beerenauslese and have to be, which is why Chateau Laubade Signature add that Sauternes age well Trockenbeerenauslese. Beer- most people don’t consider Armagnac VS ($29.99 for 750 for decades (easily 20 years enauslese wines are sweeter Brandy to be a wine. But it’s ml bottle at Table & Vine), a or more) but can taste great than Auslese wines because close enough and great to bold, robust, earthy Armarelatively young, meaning at the grapes are harvested later. have after a big meal, which gnac that tastes great on its

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024 | E11

own or with one ice cube. COGNAC

Cognac is a type of Brandy from France’s Cognac region, which is located just north of the Bordeaux region. Cognac is often made mostly with ugni blanc grapes. Another thing that makes Cognac unique — it’s distilled twice in copper stills and must be aged at least two years. Otherwise, this distinct Brandy cannot be called Cognac. Compared to other Brandies, I would say that Cognac is smoother than Armagnac. But don’t take my word for it. Conduct your own side-byside taste test. Recommended wine: Ferrand Ambre Cognac ($44.99 for 750 ml bottle at Table & Vine), an elegant, smooth Cognac with hints of apricot and vanilla. Cheers! Upcoming wine events • Mead & Cheese — Provisions will host a mead and cheese pairing class on Monday, Feb. 12, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Provisions store in Amherst, 113 Cowls Road. Tickets are $25 each. More information is available at the Provisions website or by calling 413-992-2590. • Napa Valley Wine — Table & Vine will host a wine tasting class focusing on wine from California’s Napa Valley. The wine tasting will be held on Feb. 29, from 6 to 8 p.m., at Table & Vine, 1119 Riverdale St., West Springfield. Tickets are $30 each and can be purchased at Table & Vine’s website. • Boston Wine Expo — The Boston Wine Expo will be held March 2 and 3 at the Hilton Boston Park Plaza Hotel, 50 Park Plaza, Boston. Wine tastings will be held each day, along with specialized wine tasting seminars at different times throughout the weekend. For tickets and more information, visit the Boston Wine Expo’s website. Cheers!

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

E12 | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024

Menu CONTINUES FROM PAGE E9

and tomato. The new sandwich is part of the chain’s ongoing strategy of using the Whopper as a focus for various promotional efforts. Participating Burger King locations will have the Candied Bacon Whopper on their menus for a limited time only. • On Feb. 14, EB’s Restaurant in Agawam will be hosting a “Giveback Wednesday,” during which food and soft drinks sales throughout the day will contribute to a worthy cause — All Our Kids, Inc. The “Giveback Wednesday” effort will run from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. with dine-in, takeout, and delivery purchases all credited to the fundraising effort. Based in South Hadley, All Our Kids, Inc. is an organization whose mission it is to support foster and adoptive families across the Pioneer Valley. More information about All Our Kids is available at its website, fosteringaok. org. EB’s Restaurant answers at 413-789-3525. • The Willits-Hallowell Center, the conference and function venue at Mount Holyoke College in South Hadley, is holding a Valentine’s Day Brunch on Sunday at 11 a.m. Reservations and more information are available by calling 413-538-2217. • Protocol, a late-night dinner restaurant and bar that opened in Amherst last March, is holding a Valentine’s Day Dinner on Wednes-

Nightclubs CONTINUES FROM PAGE E3 St., Amherst

Theodores’: The Mark Nomad Band. 201 Worthington St., Springfield

West Springfield’s Irish House Restaurant & Pub: Terry Brennan. 429 Morgan Road, West Springfield 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 or emailed to pmastriano@repub.com or submitted to masslive.com/myevent.

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Great selection of game day appetizers, grinders, stuffed dolo breads and more.

Call ahead to place your order! www.frigofoods.com BOTH LOCATIONS OPEN 10AM-4PM FOR THE BIG GAME 90 William Street, Springfield • 732-5428 159 Shaker Rd, East Longmeadow • 525-9400

3161675-01

The Hawks & Reed Performing Arts Center: Mardi Gras Get Down featuring Zydeco Connection and the Bourbon Street Blasters. 289 Main St., Greenfield

day, Feb. 14. A four-course prix fixe menu is being served from 4 p.m. to 11:45 p.m. The dinner is priced at $55. Reservations can be made by emailing reserve@protocol-amherst.com. • The Wine Haus at Jameson Farm in Granby is hosting its annual Winter Festival Friday to Sunday. The festival will feature live music on Friday and Saturday; an afternoon craft fair will be held on Saturday afternoon. Wine Haus will be offering mulled wine and hot chocolate, and the Chicken Man’s Chicken Shack will have their food truck on site as well. For more details, go to winehausandvineyard. com. • Sonny’s Place, an entertainment center in Somers, Connecticut, is hosting a Wine Pairing Dinner on Saturday, Feb. 17, starting at 6 p.m. The four-course menu will feature a frisee salad, a butter-poached lobster tail for a second course, and smoked beef short rib as an entree. Dessert is to be raspberry chocolate cheesecake. Each course is being matched with a selected wine that’s been chosen to complete the food being served. Tickets for the dinner are $125 and can only be purchased online at sonnys place.com. Sonny’s Place answers at 860-809-5827. 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.

WEEKEND