Weekend - May 30, 2024

For

WHIP CITY BREWFEST: Unlimited beer tastings, vendors, food trucks and more, D3

ALL ABOUT ASPARAGUS: NEPM

Asparagus Festival returns to Hadley, D4

FREE MUSIC FRIDAYS: Unforgettable Fire to play MGM Springfield, D5

Winterpills

NORTHAMPTON

Winterpills return to home stage

By K eith O ’C onnor

Special to The Republican

Iron Horse Musical Hall continues its successful reemergence on the Northampton music scene with a performance by longtime favorites Winterpills at the venue on Saturday. Showtime is 7 p.m.

Formed in the winter of 2003 in Northampton, the indie rockers have over the past years released seven albums and numerous singles and EPs and have spent weeks on the road touring the country. The band is comprised of husband and wife Philip Price and Flora Reed, Dennis Crommett, Dave Hower and Max Germer.

“We started out just as friends getting together and drinking and strumming guitars during a particularly rough winter. There had been breakups and deaths, so I’d brought a lot of sad songs in. We just clicked, spent a year writing and playing out regionally and then made a record of what we had been doing. We were signed and we toured and it did pretty

“We started out just as friends getting together and drinking and strumming guitars during a particularly rough winter.”

Northampton-based Winterpills will play the newly reopened Iron Horse Music Hall on Saturday. (JOANNA CHATTMAN)

PHILIP PRICE, WINTERPILLS

Scenes from past Asparagus Festivals on the Hadley Town Common. (THE

Asparagus Festival returns to Hadley Town Common on Saturday

All about asparagus! NEPM

By K eith O ’C onnor

Special to The Republican

Some folks can’t get enough of asparagus when it is in season, others could care less about the spring vegetable.

No matter what your preference, this weekend the bright green vegetable with its long, pointy spears will be king on Saturday at Hadley Town Common, where the NEPM Asparagus Festival returns for another growing season from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

“I’ve only met one person who doesn’t like asparagus, and he’s a friend of mine,” said Wally Czajkowski of Plainville Farm in Hadley, who is currently picking 23 acres of asparagus on his farm, some of which he will be selling at

the festival’s Farmers and Makers Market, filled with local food, crafts from block printed garments to jewelry and from bags to dolls, and nonprofit and agricultural vendors.

“The climate here is good and the soil just right contributing to the flavor and quality of asparagus grown here,” he added about why some call western Massachusetts, in particular Hadley, “the asparagus capital of the world.”

Celebrating the region’s legacy of agriculture and community, the Asparagus Festival is the biggest event held each year by NEPM. This year is it’s 10th anniversary.

“This is our largest fundraiser to support program-

ming and operations at NEPM. Saturday’s event is also a really nice chance to be outdoors in the community and supporting local businesses,” said Vanessa Cerillo, senior director of marketing, communications and events for NEPM.

She noted last year’s event raised $30,000.

Local food trucks and restaurants offering a varied menu include Spuds with Love, Wake the Dead Donuts, Holyoke Hummus Company, Esselon Café, Vibesman’s Jerk Shack, Dean’s Beans, Ginger Love

HADLEY

SPRINGFIELD

Unforgettable Fire to bring live U2 experience to MGM Springfield

By Ashley P otter apotter@repub.com

How does a tribute band continue to find success more than two decades after its inception?

Well, maybe they’re just unforgettable.

Unforgettable Fire, billed as the most authentic U2 Tribute Show, will play MGM Springfield’s Free Music Fridays, Summer Edition, this Friday. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. in the MGM plaza.

Unforgettable Fire has performed for audiences all over the world and, according to the band’s biography, they do “everything in their power (from wardrobe to lighting) to create the live U2 concert setting for their audience.” In 2015, the tribute group shared the stage with original U2 members The Edge and Adam Clayton in New York City.

The band is composed of Anthony Russo, as Bono; Mick Normoyle, as The Edge; George Levesanos, as Larry Mullen Jr.; and Craig Kiell, as Adam Clayton.

Levesanos, drummer and founder of Unforgettable Fire, took time to chat with The Republican before Unforgettable Fire’s show. The following interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Q. For starters, can you tell me about how the band came to be? Have you been part of the band since its start?

A. I started the band back in 1995 in college with my guitar player. And basically, we came up with the idea, we both loved U2. And we were both doing original stuff, that’s what we came from, and we just thought of this idea: “How cool would it be to cover one of our favorite bands?” We were on the same page about it, but we didn’t know how far we were going to take it as far as should we get people who look like them. I’m the drummer,

Unforgettable Fire, a U2 tribute band, will play MGM Springfield on Friday. (SUBMITTED)

so I’m playing Larry Mullen. I didn’t look like Larry, but I liked his drumming and I kind of had his style. But when we were looking for a Bono, we were looking for somebody who sounded like him and looked like him. And that’s how it started. Back in 1995, there really weren’t many tribute bands around, it wasn’t really a time for that. There were a couple of bands, but not really tribute bands that played one specific music. The band evolved over time, we had a few changes that happened, but this lineup that we have now has been together for over 23 years. It started in small bars, small pubs, wherever we could play (laughs). There were no theaters, there were no big shows like MGM for us back then. We grew from there, but that’s how it pretty much started.

Q. The band got together in 1995. That’s almost 30 years, which is especially impressive for a tribute band in today’s world. What has been your band’s “staying power”?

A. We stay true to the music and to ourselves, and we all have a lot of respect for each

other. We all love doing this — everybody has little hobbies on the side, but this is their main passion. We’ve become very tight, we’re like a family. We’ve spent so many years together — at one point, we were playing every single weekend, so we all grew together. We all had kids together. We’d bring our kids to the show, from the time they were babies, and now they’re all grown up. There’s been a lot of things that we’ve been through together, so we’re very tight that way and we keep it that way. We don’t have substitutes or anything like that, and it’s really given us this staying power now that we have. We just keep doing what we love to do.

Q. Your website describes your show as “a truly authentic experience,” both sonically and visually. Can you elaborate on what this means and what audiences can expect at MGM Springfield?

A. Our show is a live show. We try to do what they’re doing live, as close as possible. We try not to do the studio/

The first 500 attendees will receive a commemorative tasting glass, courtesy of glass sponsor Bright Ideas Brewing, allowing for three-ounce pours from participating brewers, including Bright Ideas Brewing, Bldg 8 Brewing, Connecticut Valley Brewing Company, Skyline Beer Co., One Way Brewing, Rustic Brewing Company, Greater Good Imperial Brewing Co., Great Awakening Brewing Company, Kismet Brewing Company, Little Willow Brewing Company, Oakholm Brewing Company, Progression Brewing Company, Seven Railroads Brewing Co., Tin Bridge Brewing Company, Two Weeks Notice Brewing Company, White Lion Brewing Company, Abandoned Building Brewery, Fieldcrest Brewing Company, Stellwagen Beer Company, Almost Famous Brewing Company, Amherst Brewing and Ginger Libation.

Joe Cocchi, who founded Tin Bridge Brewing Company along with his head brewer brother Nick, noted when approached to participate in the brewfest it was something they could not pass up.

“It is a good opportunity for us. We grew up in Westfield

and feel anything we can do locally to support other businesses is good for everyone. The committee does a great job putting the brewfest together and it is a really fun time for everyone,” he said. Among the pours Tin Bridge expects to offer at the festival will be a Double Citra New England Pale Ale, which is one of their staples, Cocchi noted, as well as their seasonal Watermelon Haze, Toasted Coconut Stout, as well as some fruited beers. For non-beer drinkers, there will be an Orange Vanilla Seltzer.

Three food vendors will offer some enticing treats between pours including North Elm Butcher Block, Macken’s Specialty Sliders, and pretzels from Skyline Beer Co. Vendors include Hop Hollow Natural Beer Soaps, TLValle Woodworking, Beer with Beards, Flight This!, makers of custom epoxy beer and shot flights, Cruise Planners, Pioneer Valley Brews Cruise, and dog treats from Treats by Tori. Tickets are $45 in advance or $55 for special VIP early admission tickets at noon which are limited to 150. General admission tickets will also be sold at the door as capacity permits. There are also special $20 designated driver tickets. All attendees must be 21 or older with a valid ID.

Opens June 1

Winterpills

well and we just kept going,” Price said.

The band’s lead writer, Price took time to answer some questions about the group and its future as they prepare to hit the Iron Horse stage on Saturday.

Q. How would you describe your music? On some songs, Flora’s voice sounds ethereal, a song can be mostly guitar at beginning and then end with an unexpected storm?

A. That sounds about right. I used to use lots of adjectives to attempt to describe the music. Nowadays I just talk about how each of us sounds and invite you to imagine it all blended together. I play mostly acoustic guitar and I apparently have an Irish tenor. Flora also plays guitar and has a really beautiful voice. Dennis plays electric and uses a lot of delay and has a minimal style. Max plays bass guitar like a talking dog. Dave drums are really dynamic and unexpected, but he can also play kick and snare like an ‘80s Linn drum machine. When we started, we had the idea of

A. It was very nice of them to think about us. I wish they would do it some more. Come by anytime, you guys.

Q. Your last album was “Love Songs” from 2016. Why the eight-year lull?

breakdown and lost 20 pounds from anxiety and inability to eat. I came around eventually.

Q. Unless you are the Rolling Stones, 23 years is a long time to be together as a group. How has the group survived?

album versions of the songs. If you know U2, you know that when they play live they change things around. They extend things, they ad-lib things. It’s very different, their live stuff from their studio stuff, so we try to create that live experience for people. We’ve all studied what they do. We’ve put a lot of years and energy into going to shows and watching all of the live stuff that’s on the internet, and we really try to give people that authentic experience, like they’re at a real U2 show. Obviously, we can’t afford their production and what they do — just look at Las Vegas, where they just finished. That was incredible. But we try to learn the small package as best as we can, and I think people who

playing songs by barely playing them - very lightly touching the music. An idea of fragility, vulnerability. It’s an aesthetic we’ve managed to stay close to even when we get quite loud. We weren’t the first to think of it (think bands like Low or Elliott Smith), but I think we do a unique version of it.

Q. You do most of the writing, where does your inspiration come from?

A. Usually, the inward viewpoint. Sometimes, the imagined eyes of another, then once in a while, just words themselves. I have more melodies than words by a country mile. It slows things down.

Q. In your Winterpills bio,

are big fans of U2 will get to live that with us for that night. They call it their “fix,” their fix that they need to hear that U2 music, and we provide that for them. I hope we’re doing justice to the music, and I hope you guys feel that out there.

Q. In 2015, Unforgettable Fire shared the stage with original U2 band members. What was that experience like?

A. Oh yeah. Yeah, that was insane (laughs). That was in 2015. We were playing a party for U2 fans at The Cutting Room in New York City, and U2 was actually playing The Garden for a week or so of shows. They happened to be off that day that we were playing, and we had no idea. They showed up and we had no idea that they were watching us. If you’ve ever been to The

you proclaim writing “cinematically weird pop songs.”

Can you explain what you meant?

A. I’m a failed filmmaker so this, I suppose, is my attempt to compensate for a path not taken yet. It’s a lot less expensive also. I try to write songs that take you somewhere and are full of imagery and slow burn melodies and ideas, that will hopefully move you to tears, laughter, or anxiety.

Q. Winterpills has been reviewed in USA Today, Rolling Stone, and The New York Times, to mention just a few. That is pretty impressive. What do you have to say about that?

Cutting Room, there’s a couple balconies and it’s pretty dark, so you can’t really see up there. We had no idea, for the first few songs, that they were watching us. And then, basically, they came down and they crashed it, and we played a couple of songs with The Edge and Adam Clayton. I drummed, and my singer sang, and they took my guitar player’s guitar and my bass player’s bass, and we were all playing. The energy was insane. It was incredible — it was a dream come true for us.

Q. Do you, yourself, have a favorite U2 song to perform?

A. I love the energy when we do “Where the Streets Have No Name.” The energy of us, the energy of the crowd. When we play that song, it’s probably the climax. I have

A. Flora and I had our son and we knew things would slow down for a while. I released three solo albums during that period — “Bone Almanac” in 2019, “Oceans Hiding In Oceans” in 2021, and “Sloper” in 2022. The pandemic put any bigger plans on the back burner, of course. As for Winterpills, we started a new album last year and we are slowly chipping away at it in-between childcare and day jobs. I can’t say when it will be finished, but the hope is it will be sometime this year.

Q. How did the pandemic affect the group? How did it affect you personally?

A. I’d say your mileage may vary depending on who you ask in the band, but overall, it totally sucked. The silver lining for Flora and I was spending literally every waking hour with our son without having to go anywhere for work. But I still managed to fit in a kind of

other songs that I love playing drumming-wise as well, but that one, as far as how I feel on stage and just seeing everybody’s reaction to it, I think is one of my all-time favorites.

Q. For you, yourself, has U2 always been a musical inspiration for you?

A. Not from the start. When they first came out, I heard them on the radio — “I Will Follow,” “Sunday Bloody Sunday” — I heard these songs and I liked them. But it’s not until I went to see them live. I was used to seeing other types of bands — a lot heavier bands, I was more into heavy metal and hard rock, that kind of stuff — and then I went to see the Joshua Tree tour back in the late ’80s and that really resonated with me. That was so different than any concert I’d ever been to. And

A. Probably because we’ve been best friends all that time. They’re still the people I see and talk to the most outside my family. I love them all and it’s a bonus that we’re also a really good band and we know it. Some rehearsals we get not much done because we’re too busy making each other piss from laughter. But last night, for example, we played a bunch of new music and my head was spinning at how good it sounded. We’re all fans of each other, as everyone is in some other musical project as well.

Q. What does the future hold for this year?

A. We will continue to work on the new album and play regionally as much as our lives allow.

Tickets to Winterpills’ performance at Iron Horse range in price from $30 to $40 and are available online at ironhorse.org

the people that were there, it just felt like everybody was together, like this happy place. And I was going through some things as well, and (that concert) changed what I felt for U2.

After that, seeing them live, that’s really what got me.

Q. U2 shows seem to really have this community. Would you say the same about your shows as well?

A. Oh yeah. It’s people connecting, and I see it all the time. Fans come to see us and they’ll become friends. We have lifelong friends that have been created from U2, from coming to see us and coming out to hear the music. And that connection, just loving U2, that creates a bond with people. It’s created a bond with us and our fans as well. I’d say it’s just that powerful.

The Winterpills will play the Iron Horse Music Hall on Saturday.

(JOANNA CHATTMAN)

Did ‘endless shrimp’ really lead to Red Lobster’s bankruptcy?

THE HEADline-grabbing story in the restaurant industry over the last several weeks has continued to be Red Lobster’s financial woes.

On May 19, the Orlando-based casual dining chain announced that it was filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. With reportedly some $300 million is debt outstanding, the filing represents one of the largest restaurant bankruptcies to date.

Though much finger-pointing has surrounded the “Endless Shrimp” promotion that Red Lobster ran in 2023 as a cause of the chain’s financial struggles, the brand’s performance had been deteriorating for a number of years. Guest counts and revenue had been declining since before the pandemic; in fiscal year 2023, the chain’s net loss exceeded $76 million.

As part of the filing, the sale of Red Lobster to its creditors is planned, and more restaurant closings (in addition to the nearly 100 shut down in May) are likely.

With regard to the “Endless Shrimp” promotion, details have emerged suggesting that Red Lobster’s part-owner, Thai Union Group, may have prevailed on company management to continue the shrimp deal despite its impacts on restaurant losses. Thai Union, a major shrimp processor and exporter, had also become Red Lobster’s sole shrimp supplier as a result of supposed undue influence on Red Lobster management.

As part of the bankruptcy reorganization, Red Lobster will be simplifying its menu and reducing the number of promotions it runs while at the same time working to improve day-to-day operations at the individual restaurant level.

Side Dishes

• Dine Springfield, the

city’s late-spring restaurant week, kicks off on June 7 and runs through June 16, with over 30 restaurants involved.

Establishments participating in Dine Springfield Restaurant Week are offering an array of inducements ranging from special three-course prix fixe menus to across-the-board discount deals. Details on what’s going to be available during

the Restaurant Week can be found online at springfielddowntown.my.canva.site/ dine-springfield.

The Dine Springfield Restaurant Week is being coordinated by the Springfield Business Improvement District. Their telephone number is 413-781-1591.

• On Thursday, June 13 the Student Prince Cafe and Fort Restaurant in Springfield will collaborate with the Springfield Wine Exchange to hold a Guten Tag German Wine Dinner.

The six-course presentation will match various German and Austrian wines with traditional Central European fare.

A first course of baked Camembert will be followed by Kartoffel Knodel (potato dumpling). A third course of German “ravioli” stuffed with minced pork and veal will be next in the order of service.

Rhinish mussels will serve as the fish course, while the main course is to be veal roulade. The meal will conclude with a mascarpone-stuffed poached pear for dessert.

The dinner, which will begin at 6 p.m., costs $80, all-inclusive. Tickets can be ordered by going to beanrg.com/shop/student prince-winedinner.

The Student Prince answers at 413-734-7475.

• The Public House Historic Inn in Sturbridge and the Central Mass South Chamber of Commerce will be jointly presenting a “New England Clambake” on Thursday, June 13, from 5 to 8 p.m.

Sponsored in part by Country Bank, the evening will start with a cocktail hour before moving to the Garden Tent for a Clambake Buffet.

The menu will include a choice of lobster or sirloin steak; additional offering will include New England clam chowder, pasta salad, potatoes, corn on the cob, and more.

Live music by Island Castaways band will provide a

backdrop for the feasting. The event will also include a food drive for the Center of Hope in Southbridge. Those attending the clambake are asked to bring non-perishable or canned food items as contributions.

Cost to attend is $65. Reservations can be made by calling 508-347-2761; the deadline for reservations is June 6.

• Golden Corral has introduced its summer menu, and that warm-weather lineup favors grilled specialties. Featured items include Grilled Carne Asada, Cheddar Bacon Ranch Chicken, and a Bruschetta Chicken dish that finishes grilled chicken breast with the traditional bruschetta combination of diced fresh tomato flavored with basil and garlic.

On the beverage side of the card, Golden Corral has introduced several mango-flavored items, including a Mango Citrus Splash.

There is a Golden Corral location in Springfield on Parker Street at Boston Road. They answer at 413-543-4600.

• On June 8, Dewey’s Jazz Lounge in downtown Springfield will be hosting a Sunsets & Sundresses Patio Party. The festivities will begin at 4 p.m., with music by DJ Prince. The $50 ticket price (plus convenience fee) includes two drinks and passed appetizers. Tickets can be ordered from Eventbrite (bit.ly/ sunsets-sundresses-2024).

A Red Lobster restaurant is seen in Schaumburg, Ill., on May 20. (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

Hugh Robert Off The Menu

The Student Prince Cafe and Fort Restaurant in Springfield is teaming up with the Springfield Wine Exchange to hold a Guten Tag German Wine Dinner on June 13. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

3 California chardonnays for hot summer days

LAST WEEK, I WROTE about the most popular red wine grape in the world – cabernet sauvignon.

This week, in honor of Memorial Day and the unofficial start of summer, I thought I would focus on the most popular white wine grape worldwide and across the country – chardonnay.

And when you’re talking chardonnay in this country, you’re talking about chardonnay from California.

Chardonnay is the most-planted white wine grape in California and the second-most-planted grape overall in the state. (Cabernet sauvignon is number one.)

And while you can find wines from many states

throughout the country, 84 percent of all wine in this country comes from California.

So the numbers are clear – chardonnay is king in California.

But I need to be honest right up front. In years past, I was not a big fan of California chardonnays.

This was especially true

when you compared chardonnays from many other parts of the world, especially France’s Burgundy region, where their mouth-watering chardonnays are famous for vividly bringing to life each subtle variation in the soil and climate.

In contrast, many California chardonnays used to be

Talking beer with Progression’s Todd Sullivan

DURING THE SUMmer, we’re going to be talking to local brewers and other beer professionals about what you can look forward to when visiting breweries in our area. We start today with Progression Brewing’s Todd Sullivan.

When you’re hiring a brewer for a new brewery that’s only one city block away from another incredibly popular one that’s been thriving for more than three decades, you’d better make a great choice.

So it’s a good thing Progression Brewing – which in 2018 opened a mere 5-minute walk from the legendary Northampton Brewery – got Todd Sullivan as its head brewer.

Sullivan, who started homebrewing in college at age 18, said he got his start from “the cool kids down the hallway” who had a homebrew setup and were making beer. Although he was in college for commercial art/industrial design, he later decided to attend the Siebel Institute for Brewing Technology. Sullivan then spent time honing his craft at several Massachusetts breweries before being hired by Progression owner Drew Starkweather.

We asked Sullivan about his brewing approach, his favorite beer and what people can look forward to when visiting Progression, among other topics.

Q. Do you have any kind of guiding philosophy for brewing?

Keep it simple. I use about four different malts for all of my IPAs. I like to learn the nuances of malts and hops and see how they work together. I have seen brewers use dozens of malts in one single recipe. I can very easily pick what malts I am using and increase or decrease or change temperatures to achieve my ultimate goals with beers. I also approach each beer I design as trying to be the best one on the planet. I will study who is making the best and the highest-rated style, and I will implement my style to make an even better one. I am always after the top dogs.

Q. You are known for your New England-style IPAs. How hard is it to make a bunch of different varieties of a style without repeating yourself? How do you come up with new ideas for new NEIPAs?

In my opinion New England IPA’s are about just a few simple things. Utilizing the perfect hop to achieve the tropical flavors you desire. I love that a hop can have tastes and smells of pineapple, guava, passionfruit, citrus, pineapple within them. It amazes me. Water chemistry is important. Malt is the basic part. I enjoy the right balance of wheat and oats to get a silky mouthfeel without being overly slick. But the bottom line is keep it simple. Making them different and recognizable in my opinion is not hard. These IPAs

are all about the hops. The hops I use taste and smell very differently. Different temperatures and fermentation times will get me vastly different results. More hops, less hops. More oats – it is all about mixing in vastly different amounts of hops to achieve my goals.

Q. What’s your favorite style and why?

My favorite style that we make is our Kolsch. Simple but just perfectly lagered, and it is given the right amount of tank time and cold conditioning to achieve a balance of perfection. I love using pilsner malt to get that crisper bite, and a simple small hop addition gets me where I want to be with this beer. I am a huge fan of lager. Tank space is at a minimum at Progression since we mostly make IPAs. I would love to squeeze a lager tank in there someday.

seltzer when we first made it. I felt like I was selling my soul. I will totally mix it up with a pastry stout or a fruited sour, but some of these changes I just can’t accept.

Q. What’s your favorite thing about being a brewer?

I definitely think making beer is still my favorite part. The part of actually brewing the beer and seeing it to completion. I have a great brewery and a small staff and I am alone a lot. Just me and my creation. It is a beautiful thing, brewing right here in downtown Northampton super early in the morning by myself.

Q. What would be your suggestion for a great summer beer to someone who is visiting Progression for the first time?

Q. What’s your biggest challenge as a brewer that you face on an ongoing basis?

Changes. I am part of this group called “angry old brewers” on the internet. They speak of making beers with Oreos and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups or Swedish fish. I just can’t do it. I am a purist. I am old, and I have been doing this for 26 years professionally. I was so hesitant to make a

New Magic Wand. There was a time a couple summers ago that I actually got tired of beer and started drinking tequila and margaritas. I made a great sour, and we had always mixed in fruit. One day I said, “You know what I am going to do? I am going to try to make a margarita sour.” That’s 100% what I would suggest to anyone visiting Progression in the summer. And of course there’s always NOHO, my Kolsch. You cannot go wrong with that beer in the summer.

Progression Brewing Company is located at 9 Pearl St. in Northampton. For more information, go online to progressionbrewing.com or call 413-341-3517.

Progression Brewing Company is located at 9 Pearl St. in Northampton. (GEORGE LENKER PHOTO)

George Lenker Beer Nut

Ken Ross Wine Press SEE

Guests are encouraged to dress in their sunset-colors finery.

Dewey’s Jazz Lounge can be reached at 413-301-8337.

• The sixth annual Whip City Brewfest is being held on Saturday, June 1, from noon until 5 p.m.

To be held on Central Street in Westfield, the Brewfest will feature tastings from local craft breweries, food trucks, live music, vendors, raffles and more.

General admission tickets are $45 (good after 1 p.m.); tickets are additionally subject to a convenience fee. Tickets are available at eventbrite.com/e/whipcity-brewfest-2024.

Proceeds from the Brewfest benefit the Amelia Park Children’s Museum in Westfield.

• Chicago-based McDonald’s Corp. has plugged into nostalgia with its latest limited-time menu offering, the Grandma McFlurry.

Developed by the chain as a celebration of grandmothers, the McFlurry dessert features vanilla soft serve with a caramel syrup and chopped candy pieces blended in. The resulting flavor experience supposedly draws on childhood experiences and the caramel-flavored treats Grandma might have handed out.

As part of the Grandma McFlurry’s limited-time appearance on the menu, McDoanld’s will donate a portion of proceeds to a national organization that supports older adults.

• On Thursday, June 6, The Starting Gate at GreatHorse in Hampden will be welcoming author and actor Gianni Russo as part of a one-man show. Russo is best known for portraying Carlo Rizzi in the motion picture “The Godfather.”

The event will begin with a 6 p.m. reception followed by a family-style Italian dinner with wine at 7 p.m. Rizzi will entertain with stories and song during the meal.

Menu for the dinner includes a first course of caprese salad served with grilled Italian bread; the main course will be rigatoni with Sunday gravy, chicken saltimbocca, and mussels Italiano.

Espresso cheesecake and Italian cookies will be offered for dessert.

Tickets for the event, which can be purchased at Eventbrite.com, are $145 plus a convenience fee.

The Starting Gate at GreatHorse answers at 413566-5158.

• Tucker’s Restaurant in Southwick will play host to Good Acoustics, a tribute group who will perform a musical tribute to James Taylor and Simon & Garfunkel.

The show, which is being presented on Saturday, June 8, will begin with a 6 p.m. buffet dinner. Tickets are $65; a cash bar will also be available.

For tickets and reservations call 413-569-0120.

• Starting on Sunday, June 2, the Brimfield Winery will be open on Sundays from noon to 6 p.m.

In addition to tastings, there will be live music weekly from 2 to 5 p.m., and a food truck will be on site. Monson-based Fry’d Guys will be the featured food truck on June 2.

Brimfield Winery is located on Main Street in Brimfield; they answer at 413-245-3436.

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.

SUMMER fun

the water is warming up, offering sunbathers and swimmers the perfect opportunity to dip their toes in the lake. Meanwhile, those who want to get lost in the woods will find countless hiking trails that lead to panoramic views from Adirondack summits. Need more thrills? Spend the day at a theme park or family fun center where there is no shortage of entertainment.

THURSDAY

2024 LGBTQIA+ Youth Community Panel: Thu., 1-3 p.m. Springfield Technical Community College. For more information, visit SpringfieldPrideParade.org, 1 Armory Square, Springfield.

Florence Summer Concert Series: Thu., 6:30-8 p.m. Florence Civic Center, Northampton High School Band and Northamptones (school band and a cappella group). Food truck is Caravan Kitchen. Bring your lawn chair. Free. 90 Park St., Florence.

Free Jazz Concert with A New Blue Jazz Band: Thu., 7 p.m. Blue Room at CitySpace, 43 Main St., Easthampton.

"The Play That Goes Wrong": Thu.-Fri., 7:30 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m. Majestic Theater, through June 2. For tickets, call the box office, 413-747-7797, $33, $35, $37. 131 Elm St., West Springfield, majestictheater.com.

“The Ukulele and You” Level Up! with Don Rovero: Thu., 6:30 p.m. Forbes Library. This workshop is aimed at the player who knows at least a few chords, and has started learning songs. Explore different strumming and fingerpicking approaches, and learn about the popular chord progressions. Join in for all three sessions, or just drop in when you can! Donations towards Forbes Library programming are encouraged. 80 minutes, free. 20 West Street, Northampton; 413587-1011 or forbeslibrary.org.

FRIDAY

Bike Swap: Fri.-Sun., Colorado Ski Shop. Bring your Bike in through end of day Thu. They will take it in, tag it, and discuss pricing. Bikes should be in good condition tires inflated. If your bike sells and you want cash, they will take 20% commission. If you want store credit, 100% will go toward that. All unsold bikes or cash must be picked up by Sunday, between 24:30 p.m. Shop the swap Fri., 2-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Sun., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Cash only. Bikes left after Sunday will be donated. 1160 Westfield St., West Springfield.

The Frost Heaves & HaLes: Fri., 5:30-8 p.m. LAVA Center, $5-$10 suggested donation ($1-$2 Card to Culture). 324 Main St., Greenfield. M/Others Institute for Collaboration and Art: Fri., 6:30-10 p.m. Northampton Center for the Arts, "The M/Other-Lode". For more information or tickets, visit ExperienceMICA.org, $25. 33 Hawley St., Northampton. 413-584-7327 or nohoarts.org.

CALENDAR

MIFA victory Players present "Puerto Abierto (Open Port)": Fri.-Sat., 7:30 p.m. Holyoke Media, Music exploring the legacy of the Caribbean and Puerto Rico. For tickets, visit mifafestival.org, $22. 1 Court Plaza (23 Suffolk St.), Holyoke.

"The Play That Goes Wrong": See Thursday listing Rainbow LGBTQIA+ & Allies Coffee Social Hour: Fri., 1 p.m. Northampton Senior Center, Gay Men's Group, meets every Fri. at 1 p.m. 67 Conz St., Northampton. 413-587-1228 or northamptonseniors.com.

Spring into Movement Fitness Fundraiser - Common Ground: Fri., 5:30 p.m. Common Ground, It Takes A Village is proud to partner with local barre Instructor Tracy Fisher and Common Ground Fitness Center in Greenfield for this Barre Fitness Fundraiser Event (with free child care available). All proceeds go directly to It Takes a Village, the local nonprofit that provides free support for postpartum families and those with young children. Barre technique is inspired by elements of ballet, yoga and pilates. This low-impact workout is designed to stegthen your body, and improve your muscular endurance, flexibility and posture. $20 donation. 367 Federal St. Suite B, Greenfield.

Springfield Pride Parade — You Ball Fundraising Gala: Fri., 6-10 p.m. MGM Springfield, Parisian Masquerade, in the Aria Ballroom. For tickets visit springfieldprideparade.org/you-ball/, general

admission $220, table of 8 $1,750. 1 MGM Way, Springfield.

StamperCon: Fri, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Eastern States Exposition. Retail consumer show featuring art rubber stamps, card making, scrapbooking and paper crafts. Parking: $5 (collected by ESE Fairgrounds). Admission: $6 advance online; $8 at the door. 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. 413-737-2443 or thebige. com.

SATURDAY

3rd Annual Springfield Pride Parade: Sat., noon Springfield Technical Community College, from STCC to Stearns Square. Free. 1 Armory Square, Springfield. Agawam Garden Club Plant Sale: Sat., 9 a.m.-noon, The Thomas Smith House. The Smith House and its recently-preserved 1920s garage will be open for tours during the sale. The plant sale will feature perennials and shrubs, all from members' gardens. Proceeds from the sale help fund the club's annual scholarship and other educational programs throughout the year, 251 North West St., Feeding Hills. thethomassmithhouse.com.

Berkshire Music School Gala: Sat., 3 p.m., Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum, featuring premiere flutist Brandon Patrick George. For tickets, visit gildedage.org/products/berkshire-music-school-2024-gala, $150. 104 Walker St., Lenox. 413-637-3206 or gildedage.org.

Bike Swap: See Friday listing

CitySpace Pride Pop-Up market: Sat., 2-7 p.m. Blue Room at CitySpace, featuring unique items like cards, prints, paintings, pottery, zines, clothing, books and more, 43 Main St., Easthampton. Eli Elkus, Musical Storytelling: Sat, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Peskeomskut Park, Part of the Food Farms and Factories series. Free family event. Rain date: Saturday, June 29, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Folk, Blues, and Americana from the early 1900's that illustrate the history of family farms, workers' rights, railroads, and industrialization, Avenue A and 7th Street, Turners Falls.

MIFA Victory Players present "Puerto Abierto (Open Port)": See Friday listing "The Play That Goes Wrong": See Thursday listing

Springfield Rifles Rugby Club

30th Annual Eric White Memorial 7s Rugby Tournament: Sat., 9 a.m. Blunt Park. The tournament hosts men's and women's teams from throughout New England and surrounding states. Ruby 7's is a fast paces, shortened version of the game of rugby. Teams are made up of seven players instead of the traditional fifteen, and matches are shorter with two seven minute halves. There will be a food truck onsite from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Players and spectators are invited to a traditional post match social at the Irish Cultural Center of Western New England in West Springfield, following the last match of the day, Free and open to the public. Roosevelt Avenue, Springfield.

StamperCon: See Friday listing

TJO Animals 6th Annual Pets Rock: Sat., noon-4 p.m. Drunkin Rabbit, Join the festivities for an afternoon of live music with the band Masshats, craft beer, food, raffles, vendors, games, and more. Admission is $30 per person. Individuals who register online will receive a free event T-shirt and token for a 13-ounce beer. While online registration is encouraged, tickets will be available at the gate for $30, with event T-shirts available for purchase while supplies last. For more information and to purchase tickets in advance, visit https://bit. ly/4afOB6O. Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome outside on the patio only. No Flexi-leads, coolers, or outside alcohol permitted. All proceeds from Pets Rock go directly to the Foundation for TJO Animals to benefit the animals in need at the Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control and Adoption Center. Make it a spa day: Hydrodog will be on hand for a fresh wash and grooming for four-legged friends. More information about Pets Rock is available by contacting the Foundation for TJO Animals at 413-306-5161 or by emailing info@ tjofoundation.org. This is a rain or shine event, 749A New Ludlow Road, South Hadley.

Wine Safari: Sat., 2 p.m. The Zoo in Forest Park and Education Center, traverse the globe without ever leaving The Zoo at The Zoo in Forest Park's Wine Safari. This event pairs wines from around the world with animals from the same region, allowing you to travel from country to country meeting the wildlife that inhabits it and trying the wines that are made there. This 21+ event takes place at The Zoo in Forest Park and includes animal encounters and keeper talks, bitesize appetizers and wine samples. All IDs will be checked at the door. $55. Sumner Avenue, Springfield; 413-733-2251 or forestparkzoo. org.

SUNDAY

Bike Swap: See Friday listing First Responder Ice Bucket Challenge On Lou Gehrig Day: Sun, noon-2 p.m. Miss Florence Diner, Northampton Police Dept., Northampton Fire Dept., Mass State Police and Smith College Campus Police will all be participating. The event is open to the public, there will be music and a raffle, and the diner and JJ's Tavern will be open, 99 Main St., Florence. Gould Farm Annual 5K Walk-Run: Sun., 8 a.m. Gould Farm Campus. Registration/check in 8 a.m., combined walk/run start 9:30 a.m., awards ceremony 10:30 a.m.

Sallie and Betsy Baldwin marching in Springfield’s inaugural Pride parade on June 4, 2022. The pride parade this year steps off on Saturday. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN, FILE PHOTO)

– in my humble opinion – a little too over the top, a bit too sweet or perhaps a bit too much butter.

Thankfully, many California winemakers have changed things up.

Not everyone wants an inyour-face wine.

Now, you can finally find many wonderful examples of understated California chardonnays that whisper their flavors instead of screaming them at the top of their lungs.

Calendar

To register or for more information, visit https://gouldfarm. akaraisin.com/ul/2024GouldFarm5KWalkRun, 54 Gould Road, Monterey.

Montague Soap Box Races: Sun, noon, Unity Park & Skatepark. Competition starts at noon. Watch racers in gravity-fed cars reach top speeds of 38 mph. Prizes will be awarded to racers in three age divisions. Extra prizes for style. Food trucks and merch will also be on site. Fundraiser for Montague Parks and Recreation. For more information or to register as a racer visit https://montaguesoapboxraces. com, 56 1st St., Turners Falls.

"The Play That Goes Wrong": See Thursday listing

Quadrangle

George Walter Vincent Smith

Art Museum: Permanent exhibit: “Ancient Treasures,” a display of artifacts from ancient China, Greece, Rome and Egypt. Through Labor Day, the Springfield Museums is taking part in the Blue Star Museum Initiative. During this time, military personal and their families will be admitted to the museums at no charge. The free admission program is available for those currently serving in the United States Military—Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, and Space Force, members of the Reserves, National Guard, U.S. Public Health Commissioned Corps, NOAA Commissioned Corps, and up to five family members. Qualified members must show a Geneva Convention common access card (CAC), DD Form 1173 ID card (dependent ID),

This week, you can learn more about three delightful California chardonnays, including one that costs less than $12 a bottle.

Hope you enjoy!

2021 J. Lohr Arroyo Seco Monterey Chardonnay ($11.99 at Table & Vine in West Springfield)

Region: Monterey, California

Tasting notes: Located near the Pacific Ocean in Central California, just over 100 miles south of San Francisco, Monterey clearly is a great place to grow grapes

based on this outstanding, affordable wine. Everything about this wine is soft, subtle and understated, including its flavors and floral-like aromas, which include hints of peach, honeydew melon and apricot. An absolute gem at an amazing price.

2022 Justin Chardonnay Sonoma County ($38 Suggested Retail Price)

Region: Sonoma County, California

Tasting notes: One of my favorite California wineries, Justin Winery consistently produces delicate, elegant

wines with character and personality. This refreshing white wine from California’s Sonoma County (which is closer to the ocean than Napa Valley) has a clear, bright, well-rounded taste with hints of toasted butter, sea salt and seaweed. It’s also slightly acidic in a good way. A true delight.

2021 Beringer Private Reserve Chardonnay Napa Valley ($50 SRP)

Region: Napa Valley, California

Tasting notes: Another consistently great California

Station exhibit.

The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum: Permanent exhibit. Firstfloor exhibition provides opportunities to explore new sounds and vocabulary, play rhyming games, invent stories, and engage in activities that encourage teamwork and creative thinking, with interactive three-dimensional exhibits. Second floor: contains Geisel’s personal memorabilia. Timed tickets required. For reservations, visit springfieldmuseums.org

winery, Beringer has set the standard for years for delicious, interesting wines that reward careful attention. Here, the flavors and aromas are bright and lively with expressive hints of lemon, citrus, sea salt and wildflowers. There are also subtle vanilla-like notes along with a dash of peach and toasted almonds. An outstanding wine perfect for any summer occasion. Cheers!

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

DD Form 1173-1 ID card or the Next Generation Uniformed Services (Real) ID card for entrance into a participating Blue Star Museum. 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: “The 200th Anniversary of the Springfield Republican,” through Jan. 5.

“Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum: The Exhibit,” through Sept. 1. Travel back in time and unravel the secrets of world-famous heroes. This new exhibit brings to life the PBS Kids TV series “Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum.” Permanent exhibit: More than two dozen Indian motorcycles and related memorabilia.

Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts: “Look Again: Portraits of Daring Women” by Julie Lapping Rivera, through Feb. 23. Artists reception May 31, 5-7 p.m. Museum a la Carte: May 30, 12:15 p.m. “Forensic Genetic Genealogy.” Cost: $4, members are free. In-person or online. To register for online,

visit springfieldmuseums.org.

Learn about how genealogical DNA can solve decades-old crimes. In this presentation, we will talk about what forensic genetic genealogy is, look at some case examples, and see how it works hands-on with a simulated case. Presented by Dr. Anthony Redgrave, co-founder, Redgrave Research Forensic Services; and lead instructor, Forensic Genetic Genealogy for Law Enforcement (FG4LE).

Springfield Science Museum: “Did the Asteroid Really Kill the Dinosaurs?.” Sat. through Aug. 31, 2 p.m. This full-dome show uncovers the science behind one of Earth’s greatest mysteries: the fate of dinosaurs. Audiences will explore impacts, cosmic collisions, and different types of evidence that can be found on the moons and planets of our solar system. “Tiny Titans: Dinosaur Eggs and Babies,” through Sept. 1. This hands-on exhibition offers and astounding array of authentic dinosaur eggs and nests collected from all over the globe. Permanent exhibit: State-of-the-Art Zeiss Projector and updated International Space

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.

Outdoors

Great Falls Discovery Center: Story Walks “Ruby Birds,” through June 25, by Mya Thompson. For readers ages 3-7 and everyone who celebrates birds. Follow the path to book pages posted along the route. “What’s on Your Plate?” through June 29. “Made in Montague,” through Oct. 27. In the Hallway Gallery. 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls or greatfallsma.org.

Lupa Zoo: Tues.-Sun, through Sept. 2, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed most Mondays, except on Memorial Day, Labor Day and Columbus Day. $15 adults ages 13+, $12 seniors (62+), $10 children (2-12), infants are free. 62 Nash Hill Road, Ludlow or lupazoo.org.

Mt. Greylock State Reservation: “Sensing Spring Trip-Tip,” through May 31, dawn to dusk. Free for all ages. Self-guided activity explores in and around Mt. Greylock State Reservation. Visitor Center: Open

daily, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Interpretive exhibits explore the park story through artifacts and displays. Trail maps, hike guidance, 13-minute orientation film, bathrooms, drinking water available. Wheelchair accessible. Discover Greylock Hikes: May 31, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. For ages 8 and up. Meeting locations may vary. Call 413-499-4262 for meeting locations, to register, and check weahter updates. Nature Scavenger Hunt: Ongoing, Sun., 10 a.m.-3 p.m. For children and families. Self-guided adventurous quests invited you to search for natural treasures along part trails and inside the Visitor Center. There are several seek and find scavenger hunts for different age and skill levels. Scavenger hunts are available at the Visitor Center. 30 Rockwell Road, Lanesborough

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

River Studios DeVries Fine Art International Sculpture Trail: River Studios Sculpture Trail, through Oct. 27, Fri.-Sun., 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and by appointment. Visitors can wind their way through a wildflower meadow and shaded groves, dotted with 40 large bronze sculptures as River Studios begins a new season of its Sculpture Trail. Free, donations graciously accepted. 36 East River Road, Middlefield. The Zoo in Forest Park and Education Center: Zoo at Forest Park 2024 Season. The Zoo is home to more than 225 native and exotic animal residents representing a large variety of species. Admission is $13 adults, $9 seniors 62+, $7 children (1-12). Parking $3 in-state, $5 out of state, cash only. Sumner Avenue, Springfield, forestparkzoo.org.

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Learn more about dinosaurs and their eggs in a new exhibit at the Springfield Museums, “Tiny Titans,” open through Sept. 1. (PHOTO COURTESY SPRINGFIELD MUSEUMS)

Asparagus

Café, P’frogi, Crooked Stick Pops, Bruisers BBQ, Vegan Pizza Land, Thai Chili Food Truck and Masa Mexicano.

As in the past, Cerillo noted that food truck vendors are being asked to be inventive and add asparagus-related dishes to their menus, such as the asparagus crème brulee from CremeBru LA.

And to wash it all down, the Beers & Spears tent will sell local beers, cider and wines from Headwater Cider Company, New City Brewery, White Lion Brewing, Building 8 Brewing, Element Brewing & Distilling, Abandoned Building Brewery, Leadfoot Brewing, Black Birch Vineyard, Loophole Brewing, Amherst Brewing,

“After we pick asparagus at our farm, we bunch them into packages and wrap them with a rubber band. They are made for sale in one-pound bunches, and after a lot of practice, you can gather and wrap one pound exactly. We average about 2,000 bunches a day... you’ve got to be quick if you want to get home at night,”

Czajkowski said.

The Hadley farmer oversees the Asparagus Bunching Contest, where people are invited to test their bunching skills based on weight and to see who can go the fastest.

“It’s strictly for bragging rights, there are no prizes,” Czajkowski said.

He noted no discussion about asparagus in Hadley is complete without a reference to the late Wally Hibbard, a longtime mainstay of the local asparagus scene.

If you are a bicyclist, the Hadley Town Common is on the Norwottuck Rail Trail and attendees are encouraged to ride bikes to the festival and take advantage of MassBike’s free bicycle valet service.

Ginger Libation, and Katalyst Kombucha.

Live music will celebrate the low in calories, high in protein green spears on the Fabulous 413 Stage with western Massachusetts singer-songwriters Lexi Weege and JJ Slater, the cultural sonic fusion of TapRoots, New Orleans Jazz and soul artist Glen David Andres, and the blues of the Diego Mongue Band.

To keep the kids happy, there will be meet and great opportunities along with having their photographs taken with PBS Kids characters Curious George and Malik from “Work It Out Wombats.”

There also will be live music from the Grumpytime Club and the chance to watch a live Tumble Podcast. Children can also find out how quick they can pick asparagus as part of the Asparagus Valley Pick game, and there will be arts and crafts from Wild Garden of Childhood Nursery. Adults will not be left out of the fun and games, with a special Asparagus Bunching Contest planned for the older crowd.

“Wally never gave up growing asparagus even when soil disease was a problem before disease tolerant asparagus was bred. He insisted there was a future in planting the crop, and he was right. It is because of him that there is so much asparagus here in the valley. He was so successful that even the Queen of England purchased his asparagus, and that is true,” he said.

If you are a bicyclist, the Hadley Town Common is on the Norwottuck Rail Trail and attendees are encouraged to ride bikes to the festival and take advantage of MassBike’s free bicycle valet service. While the festival is free to attend, there is a suggested donation of $5 per person or $20 per family to support public media in western Massachusetts. If you preregister online, you will get to skip the line and walk right through the gates, and your name will be placed in a drawing to win a VIP prize package of tickets to the Green River Festival. For more information, visit nepm.org.