For
Jazz & Roots Festival
FREE MUSIC FRIDAYS: Billy Joel tribute band to play MGM Springfield, D4
PSYCHIC MEDIUM: Matt Fraser to offer readings in Springfield, D4
SPRINGFIELD COMIC CON: Featuring special guests, game room, panels, D5
11th
Jazz & Roots Festival
Keith O’Connor | Special to The Republican
The city has its own jazz district this weekend as part of the 11th anniversary Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival, which returns on Friday for two days of music, art and community in Stearns Square and Tower Square Park.
The annual event — showcasing a diverse lineup of artists spanning jazz, blues, funk, hip-hop, Latin and African music genres — is expected to draw thousands of music enthusiasts, artists and community members.
“Music is really the heart and soul of the festival. We curate some of the best jazz music has to offer on two stages on Saturday, featuring local jazz performers alongside national and international names. I truly believe we are up there on par with other great festivals such as the Newport Jazz Festival,” said Evan Plotkin, co-producer of the Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival along with Kristin Neville, executive director of the nonprofit Blues to Green,
Above, from left, some of the performers scheduled for this year’s Jazz & Roots Festival include Misty Blues, Samirah Evans & Her Handsome Devils, and the Alfredo Rodriguez Trio. A full lineup is available online at springfieldjazzfest.com. SEE JAZZ, PAGE D3
(HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN, FILE)
“Music is really the heart and soul of the festival.”
EVAN PLOTKIN, CO-PRODUCER, SPRINGFIELD JAZZ & ROOTS FESTIVAL
organizers of the event.
Blues to Green — inspired by famed musician Charles Neville and founded by his wife, Kristin Neville — is a nonprofit organization dedicated to using music and art to center the cultures of the African diaspora within American culture, nurture personal freedom, strengthen multicultural community, and catalyze action for racial, economic, and climate justice in Springfield and beyond.
In addition to the music, the event is also about “community.”
“We are connecting the Springfield community with cultures and music from around the country and the world. Our festival is really about bringing people together and lifting up the community. We partner with a number of community organizations to help bring the festival to life, including many of whom have organized arts activities for all ages to enjoy which further enriches the festival for those attending,” Neville said.
The main show starts at 5:30 p.m. on Friday night at the Charles Neville Main Stage in Stearns Square, focusing on regional talent, beginning with the band LeFever, the Western Massachusetts duo of songwriters Dawn Lepere and Jeff Starns. Hailing from Ohio and Louisiana, they have merged their musical styles to create an eclectic collection of buoyant and catchy original music that moves in and out of blues, blues-rock, and indie rock. Malado! takes the stage at 7 p.m. The power-
house band from Springfield seamlessly blends R&B, hip-hop, funk, and neo-soul with performances that often draw comparisons to legends like The Roots. They will be followed at 8:40 p.m. by the soulful sounds of Misty Blues, fronted by Gina Coleman. Originating in Berkshire County, Misty Blues has been captivating audiences with its unique blend of original and traditional blues infused with jazz, soul, funk and tent revival gospel since 1999. Saturday’s festivities begin with a traditional Second Line Parade. The procession will leave the steps of Springfield City Hall at 11:30 a.m. and proceed through the streets before arriving at Stearns Square for the kickoff performance on the Charles Neville Main Stage. The public is invited to join in the parade which is led by the Sonida Musica students and faculty of the Community Music School of Springfield.
A New Orleans tradition which began as part of the festival in 2017, Second Line Parades are joyous community street parades that stem from the history of jazz funerals. Charles Neville was a guest
teacher at the Community Music School and taught the students about New Orleans music and they went on to lead the festival’s first parade. Neville died before the 2018 festival, but the parade continues on in tribute to him and as a celebration of life, noted Neville.
“We will be holding a free dance workshop on Thursday from 5-7 p.m. in the gymnasium of the MLK Jr. Community Center to help prepare people for participating in Saturday’s Second Line Parade,” Neville said.
Saturday’s performances on the Charles Neville Main Stage in Stearns Square include The Dwonztet, blending jazz, blues, R&B and hip hop; Sonny Stitt Tribute, playing songs by the bebop trailblazer; Alfredo Rodriguez, whose music reflects his Cuban roots and immigrant experiences; Nat Reeves Quartet, featuring one of the top bassists in jazz; groundbreaking harpist Brandee Younger; and trailblazers for South Carolina’s Gullah community — Ranky Tanky with Lisa Fischer.
Both Plotkin, who over the years has developed a personal friendship with the
world-renown bassist, and Neville, are excited about Nat Reeve’s performance at the Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival.
“I’m excited to come to Springfield once again and to see Evan and to participate in two concert performances, one with my quartet and the
other in tribute to the late Sonny Stitt who I admired,” Reeves said. Reeves has toured internationally with some of the greatest jazz artists, beginning with Stitt, and in Jackie McLean’s band that lasted until McLean’s passing. He has also
Pahua, above left, will play the Urban Roots Stage on Saturday as part of the Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival. Ranky Tanky, with Lisa Fischer, above right, will play the Charles Neville Main Stage on Saturday.
George Lenker LIVE WIRE
Outdoor shows await long, hot summer
SUMMER OF 2024 IS SHAPING UP TO BE A REPEAT
of last year, which was the hottest in more than 2,000 years in the Northern Hempisphere.
But music fans should not let the weather discourage them from attending outdoor shows despite the scorching temperatures.
FREE MUSIC FRIDAYS
They didn’t start the fire
... but We May Be Right will fight it at MGM Springfield
By Ashley P otter apotter@repub.com
They didn’t start the fire, but they’re keeping it burning. We May Be Right, a Billy Joel tribute band, will be next to take the Plaza stage for MGM Springfield’s Free Music Fridays summer concert series on Friday, July 12. The band is led by keyboardist, lead vocalist and 20-year music veteran Karl Dietel, who’s years of classical musical training made him a fan of the “Piano Man” from a young age. He is joined by Perry Andrews, who brings brass, woodwinds, percussion and background vocals; Derek Davodowich on guitar; Luke Kessel with bass and background vocals; Andy Janowiak on drums; and Jim Ruffi, the band’s sub-drummer.
The band got its start in 2018 playing Billy Joel’s “The Stranger” album — which features hits like “Only the Good Die Young” and “Just the Way You Are” — and has since grown in a way that Dietel described as both organic and exciting in an interview with The Republican. Dietel took time to talk about his band’s creative process and Billy Joel’s legacy before Friday’s show. The following interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Q. The band had an interesting start. It all began with covering Billy Joel’s album “The Stranger.” Can you share more about that?
A. I had spent a number of years being a road manager and a keyboard player of a national touring act, and that was starting to wind down, and I was flirting with the nine-to-five idea and just figuring out what to do musically. So I said, “You know what? Let me grab some of my friends, and we’ll just play ‘The Stranger’ album.” (laughs) And I was like, we’re just going to play the whole thing. A pal of mine was booking a Sunday afternoon event, the place had a nice sound system, so
SPRINGFIELD
Q&A with ‘America’s Top Psychic Medium’
Matt Fraser will offer live audience readings at MGM’s Aria Ballroom
By K eith O ’C onnor Special to The Republican
For anyone looking to get in touch with someone who has passed to other side, Matt Fraser, might have the answer they are looking for.
audience of fans and follower. From heartfelt emotional readings to sunning revelations, he has audiences on the edge of their seats with his outrageous personality and unique approach to mediumship.
we went down there, and we played “The Stranger.” It was packed, so he was like “alright, let’s do it again, we’ll do it again in two weeks.” We did it again, and there were even more people there, and people started saying, “Hey, can you do that at our place Friday night, can you do this over here?” (laughs) So it really took off from us just having fun. It really encapsulates what has happened since — it was just having fun, and we were realizing, well, we’ve gotta add more songs, and we’ve gotta’ add more songs. The whole thing has been a work in progress — it still kind of is. We very organically built a following, we had a booking
Fraser, billed as “America’s Top Psychic Medium,” will have an up close and personal event of live audience readings at MGM’s ARIA Ballroom on Saturday at 8 p.m. New York Times bestselling author of “We Never Die,” Fraser has caught the attention of major media outlets across the nation including USA Today, People, CBS Radio and more. He has also been a sought-after guest on popular television shows such as “The Real Housewives,” “Botched,” “The Kelly Clarkson Show” and many more. His sold-out live events, television appearances and spiritual teachings have allowed him to bring healing, hope and laughter to a global
His readings have led guests through a roller coaster of emotions from laughing to crying, turning skeptics into believers. His readings frequently include names, dates and locations he could not possibly know. The event is for persons 18 and older.
Tickets begin at $53 and are available online at mgmspringfield.mgmresorts. com/en/entertain ment/ aria-ballroom.html.
Fraser took time from his busy schedule to answer the following questions for The Republican:
Q. What was it like growing up and knowing you had “the gift?”
A. I grew up, born and raised in Cranston, RI. What was amazing is that my grandmother was a medium,
We May Be Right, a Billy Joel tribute band, will play MGM Springfield’s Free Music Fridays concert series. (CORBIN PAYNE)
Springfield Comic Con opens doors at MassMutual Center
Weekend event to feature special guests, game room, panels
By Ashley P otter apotter@repub.com
Fans of comic books, video games and everything in-between won’t have to travel far to get their fill this weekend.
Springfield Comic Con, which opens its doors for a two-day run this weekend at the MassMutual Center, promises a gaming room, vendors, artists and cosplay contests.
This is the convention’s third year in the heart of the city, a run that began with a rocky start. In 2022, turnout was higher than expected, which left crowds outside in the humidity for a long time.
“The second year we worked with the venue on getting everyone indoors faster, which made a huge difference,” said showrunner Mike Federali in an email interview with The Republican. The convention’s second year — held last summer — was a much smoother run.
This year’s show will be held over two days: Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“I’ve always been a fan of comics and geek culture in general,” Federali said.
“Bringing a show to Springfield was just one of those fun ideas that I’m happy to see has found a fanbase.”
Massachusetts is home to several large comic conventions throughout the year, with neighboring conventions in New York and Connecticut. But Federali said it’s important to have “medium size” shows as well.
“I think it’s important to give anyone a chance to ex-
Mandie Strange FX, a cosplayer, body paint and special effects makeup artist based out of West Springfield, is among this weekend’s special guests for Springfield Comic Con. (PHOTO COURTESY MANDIE STRANGE FX)
perience a show within their community,” he said.
Springfield Comic Con will offer fans a real convention-going experience, including the chance to meet comic book artists and voice actors with its lineup of special guests.
Among those guests is Alyson Court, who voiced Lydia Deetz in “Beetlejuice” and Claire Redfield in the “Resident Evil” franchise, and starred as Loonette the Clown on the series “The Big Comfy Couch.” Other guests include John Morton, best known for playing Dak Ralter, Luke Skywalker’s tailgunner, in “The Empire Strikes Back,” and Ralph Macchio, longtime Marvel Comics writer and editor, who has written stories for “The Avengers” and “Doctor Strange,” among other titles.
Local special guests include the Western Massachusetts Ghostbusters and Mandie Strange FX, a cosplayer, body paint and special effects makeup artist based in West Springfield.
served as the primary bassist for Curtis Fuller, Pharoah Sanders, and Kenny Garrett. Now retired from teaching, he was a familiar face to students at the Hartt School of Music in Hartford, where he was a professor at the Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz.
“Festivals like this are important because they bring the community together, where people can feel good about themselves, have an opportunity to get outdoors and listen to some great music and enjoy some delicious food. Happiness heals the spirit,” Reeves said.
He also noted that jazz plays an important role in that happiness.
“Some of the frequencies of jazz have a very healing effect. Jazz music and dance bring out our emotions and help us forget our everyday problems,” Reeves said.
Reeves noted it “means the world to me” to be part of the Sonny Stitt Tribute alongside other talented musicians. He first toured with Stitt in 1982 in Japan during what would be the great saxophonist’s last tour. He died of cancer in July of that same year.
“I am the last bass player to perform with Sonny in Japan. He was very ill and had just been discharged from the hospital. We became close and I learned about what caring meant as part of our friendship,” he said.
Also on Saturday at the festival’s Urban Roots Stage in Tower Square Park, there will be performances by Ron Smith & the Soulful Jazz Trio, who share a love and passion for all styles of jazz and instrumental pop music; Community Music School of Springfield Drum Group; Heshima Moja, a composer, songwriter, bassist, vocalist and bandleader; Samirah Evans & Her Handsome Devils, known for her dynamic, soulful approach to jazz and blues among other genres; Franky Rodriguez Orquestra, featuring the hip-hop sounds of T Swan & Talynt; and Mexican singer Pahua, who connects alternative electronic
cled, eco-friendly materials. Also, from 2-5 p.m. on Saturday, all are invited to participate in helping to recreate an original mural by the late Nelson Stevens. Participants will paint fabric panels that will make up the final design to be assembled on the side of the building housing the African Diaspora Mental Health Association on State Street in Springfield. Stevens, a Springfield painter and professor of art at UMass Amherst, was instrumental in creating more than 30 murals across
rhythms with Latin beats. DJ Chico, DJ Why Not, and Breakin’ Battle dance extravaganza can be seen and heard on the Dance Stage.
Neville noted they are welcoming Loophole Brewing as part of the pre-action for the festival during their ongoing Duryea Way Wine & Beer Garden on Thursday at 4 p.m., which this week features Lee Totten & Friends.
During the festival, attendees can explore food and pop-up craft vendors, and surrounding restaurants will be offering a variety of ethnic cuisines.
“Our art activities are designed to engage community members in creating and contributing to the spirit of creativity and sharing it with others,” Neville said.
Art activities include Chalk for Change on Friday evening, featuring local artists who will create chalk art with inspirational messages on the sidewalks around the festival. The community arts initiative began during the pandemic as a beacon of hope in the community.
Throughout the day on Saturday, artists will be stationed in the Community Arts Tent, organized by the Springfield Cultural Partnership, who will help people of all ages to create works of art using recy-
Springfield starting in 1973, using not only his own artistic abilities, but collaborating with students and artists associated with AfriCOBRA to bring the colorful depictions
of Black culture to reality. This year’s Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival will also feature a groundbreaking Digital Storytelling Space in Tower Square on Saturday, dedicated to supporting Arts for Racial & Climate Justice. Currently in its nascent stages, the program’s inaugural project focuses on a documentary exploring Puerto Rico’s food sovereignty, art, music, and resilience amid climate change. Inspired by past jazz festivals, the initiative underscores the festival’s commitment to cultural and environmental activism and this year’s installation draws from this inspiration. Individuals of Puerto Rican descent are invited to share their stories from 2-6 p.m. at the installation at Tower Square. The festival is made possible by grant funders, local business sponsors, the City of Springfield and donors. While admission is free, donations are encouraged online or onsite. Organizers state that the actual ticket price would be $42 if they charged admission. They are asking for a suggested donation of $10 to $25 or more per person. Organizers are also asking those planning on attending, if possible, to RSVP on their website, springfieldjazzfest.com, due to the capacity limit.
TUESDAY
Chicopee Elks #1849
431 Granby Road, Chicopee
413-592-1849
Bingo Tuesday
Doors Open at 4PM
2 Progressive Jackpots
6:15PM Early Bird
6:20PM Start
Min. Entry Package $15
Open Seating
2 Halls for Players Handicap Restroom 1st Floor
WEDNESDAY
Polish American Citizens Club 355 East Street, Ludlow, 583-6385
Bingo Wednesdays 6:30-9:30pm
Doors Open at 4pm.
Minimum Admission $50
1 - 1199 Progressive Betty Boop 50/50 Prize $900
2 - $500 Cover Alls
3 - $400 Special Games All regular games $100 with 80 people or More. All Cards are included with Admission. Prizes climb with additional attendence. Full Kitchen 4-6:30pm.
THURSDAY
Fairview Knights of Columbus 1599 Memorial Drive, Chicopee (413) 532-2011
DOORS OPEN 4:30PM
MASKS OPTIONAL Progressive Jackpot 6:15pm Early Bird 6:20pm Start
Electronic Bingo Aval. Snack Bar, Open Seating, Handicap Restrooms
CALL TODAY 413-788-1250 TO LIST HERE
Min. Entry Package $15
Above, Tess Plotkin and Lucy Griswold, of Washington D.C., dance to the music. At right, Alejandro Cameron dances with his niece at the 10th annual Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN, FILE PHOTOS)
agency, then COVID, then we had another booking agent (Blue Raven Entertainment) that led us to where we are right now.
It all stemmed from that one idea — let’s just celebrate what a great record (”The Stranger”) is and all the different styles that are on it. What a great experience it’s been, and we couldn’t be happier to be where we are right now.
Q. When you guys first started, just playing “The Stranger” album for fun, did you ever think the band would become what it is now?
A. That’s a great question, because I never really had a plan. We just got together and started playing. People now are saying, “oh, you’re playing five or six different states, you’re selling out these smaller theaters and you’re moving onto bigger and better things.” And I say, “yeah, no one’s more surprised than me.” (laughs) We were just kind of horsing around and enjoying ourselves, and we thought, “how’s this going to go over if we play a record from beginning to end?” It’s been so much fun to just see it expand and grow, and all of our fans picking up their friends, and the whole thing just getting bigger and bigger as we roll down this hill. It’s been so, so exciting.
Q. How would you describe the legacy of Billy Joel’s music?
A. The idea, and I believe this idea, that his music is more popular now than it was when he was writing all these records, is really hard to describe. You almost don’t want to know, because I look out and there’s folks who have grown up with the music — we can see who those people are — but then there is an equal amount of younger people who have been exposed to it somehow along the way that carry it on
to their friends. The legacy is kind of still revealing itself. He’s been able to command an audience of 20,000 people at Madison Square Garden once a month for 10 years, and no one’s done that before. You’ve seen it a little bit in Las Vegas, people have residencies, and you’re going to see it in that Sphere in Las Vegas as well, which is a new venue as of this year, but you’ve never heard of someone holding down the fort for 10 years once a month and seeing those kinds of numbers. It really is a legacy and we’re still bearing witness to it. And what greater way to spread it than to get up there and play these songs weekend after weekend, and night after night? We couldn’t be happier to be where we are right now.
Q. Has Billy Joel always been a musical inspiration for you?
A. You know, he was. He was an influence on me growing up, and I did take classical piano lessons for 10 years when I was younger, so I was always aware of his music. He was one of my bigger influences on the piano, and it made sense, once we started digging into the entire catalogue, that I thought, “well, maybe this makes sense, because I’ve been aware of this music in a certain manner since my childhood.” I kind of have an understanding of (the music) because I’ve been around it for so long.
Q. Do you see a lot of energy at your shows?
and realize that this is just going to be a good time.
Q. And are you all pretty close as band members?
project that onto the audience as well.
Q. Do you have any favorite songs to cover?
A. We do. This type of music demands that we are at the top of our game all the time, and it’s fun to see how much this music means to people. You look out there and people are singing along, and somebody’s playing the air drums to a part of the song. A couple times, I got caught up in the moment, I was like, “uh-oh, where are we?” and I just look out and I find somebody who’s singing along, and I go “okay, I’m going to follow this guy, he’s going to get me back into where I am.” (laughs) I call them the human teleprompters sometimes. That’s really the most rewarding part about this, is to see how much it means to everybody else.
Q. And how did you guys decide on the band name, We May Be Right?
A. (Laughs) Well, let me see if I can recall that conversation … because you’re right, we learned the whole record first, and then we thought, “we’re going to have to bill this as something.” It was our secret weapon Perry Andrews, who is our jack of all trades, and he sort of raised his eyebrows and said, “We May Be Right.” It got a collective smile and laugh from everyone. It’s a fun name, and that’s what we wanted. We didn’t want to take it too seriously. We didn’t want people to have to think about it too much, and it really encapsulated what we were going for, where people would make the connection
A. By now, yeah. (laughs) By now we are, which is great because you ride together or you just meet up together, and you want to talk about Billy Joel’s legacy, almost every show we’re doing is sort of different. We’re playing in a field to a couple thousand people, we’re playing to 150 in a very intimate (venue) where we can see everyone out there, we’ve sold out a venue in a town we’ve never even approached before. It’s really fun to go through with the same pack month after month, and you get that musical conscience going where we’re all unspoken but on the same page, and all the ideas are flowing around night after night.
Q. And do you feel that collective musical conscience elevates your shows?
A. I do, and I know it does. It’s not something I could sit down and say “OK, six months from now, when Andy (Janowiak) starts his drum section, we’re not going to be caught off-guard by it, by the way.” It’s not something you can explain, it’s sort of something that grows. Andy will start something on the drums a little bit differently. Luke (Kessel), he’s got a great walking bass line on a couple of songs, and sometimes we let him stretch out, or I see Perry over there staring at his arsenal of instruments and I think to myself, “he’s got an idea, he’s gonna maybe play something different on this song in this particular venue.” It’s pretty exciting to get to that point, because that can be what you aspire to, and there’s no real roadmap of how to get there. It just has to happen organically, and we have been able to achieve that. And it’s fun for us, because every night can be a little bit different. It’s not a script, and I feel we can
A. Oh boy... I mean, they all hold meaning to me now. Some are because I do like to be challenged, and some of these songs are very difficult to play, and I know I have to be on top of my game to get through them all every night. And that’s good, because it keeps me sharp and keeps the band tight. Personally, I enjoy playing “Scenes From an Italian Restaurant” and “Prelude / Angry Young Man.” Those two songs are like puzzles that you have to put together in real time. And then there are some songs that maybe I wouldn’t listen to on a night off, but when we play them, I see everybody reacting to it in such a way that I think “wow, this song’s really meaningful to people.” (Songs such as ”Uptown Girl,” “Piano Man” and “We Didn’t Start The Fire,” Dietel shared in a second phone call.) And maybe that’s the legacy — the songs mean so many different things to so many people for so many different reasons.
Q. Can you share what audiences can expect at MGM Springfield?
A. There’s five of us. What we try to do — and this happened, again, because we learned “The Stranger” — we try to approach all of (Billy Joel’s) music from the way that a touring, five-piece band would cover it. So you’re getting all the energy, you’re getting all the musicianship, and it’s a nice performance. We have a very energetic approach to the songs. And we’re going to span his career as well, so there will be songs from all of his records. We know the entire arc of his career, and we try to touch on all different parts of it. I think people are going to be excited. It’s a genuine performance, and we’ve got five people who really love music and love to be out there on stage.
We May Be Right is a five-piece Billy Joel tribute band.
(CORBIN PAYNE)
Fieldcrest Brewing features old English ales, cask beer
George Lenker Beer Nut
ADAM FIELD OF WILBRAham’s Fieldcrest Brewing Company initially started homebrewing for a rather unusual reason: to help a friend who had a medical condition.
“I had been drinking craft beer since the mid ′90s and started home brewing in 2012 after my friend was diagnosed with celiac disease. For those who don’t know, this is an intolerance to gluten and meant he couldn’t drink beer,” he
said. “There were a few gluten-free beers available at the time, but they were expensive and not that good.”
So they decided to try making gluten-free beer at home, and a half-dozen years later, Field decided to go pro.
“It turned out that I really enjoyed making beer and began brewing almost every week and making regular beer as well,” Field said.
Field answered a few questions about his journey into professional brewing.
Fast food restaurants are competing in ‘value wars’
THIS SUMMER’S “value wars” among major quick service brands has continued to attract new combatants since McDonald’s Corp. launched its much anticipated $5 Value Meal on June 25.
Burger King had been first to enter the value fray, jumping the gun with a June 13 introduction of its “$5 Your Way” meal, a burger-or-chicken-sandwich deal with fries, chicken nuggets, and a soft drink.
KFC had also earlier debuted a “$4.99 Meal for One,” and Starbucks began offering a first-ever breakfast “Pairings Menu.”
Now Taco Bell has entered this discounting contest, albeit at a higher price point, with a Taco Bell $7 Luxe Cravings Box. The Box contains a Chalupa Supreme, a Double Stack Taco, and a Beef 5-layer Burrito along with chips, nacho cheese sauce, and a drink. Like the McDonald’s $5 value Meal, the Luxe Cravings Box is a limited-time-only offer.
The Wendy’s Co. is also a combatant in the summertime 2024 value dust-up with its $5 Biggie Bag. The Bag is a package that includes a choice of chicken or hamburger sandwich, four-piece chicken nuggets, fries, and a drink, and customers have the option of substituting, for a
small upcharge, a Frosty. Other quick service chains are using their own value strategies to attract inflation-weary consumers.
Participating Sonic DriveIn Restaurants, for instance, are now offering a “FUN.99 Menu” that features five different selections each priced at $1.99.
Choices include a Quarter Pound Double Cheeseburger, A Chili Cheese Coney hot dog, potato tots, and 16-ounce shakes as well as a new item - the Queso Wrap. The new snack-style chicken tender wraps come in two variations, a Bacon Ranch version and a Southwest Crunch Queso Wrap.
The new FUN.99 Menu at Sonic is slated to be available “indefinitely.”
This summer’s value wars aren’t likely to remain confined to the fast-food space, either. Expect to see casual and fast-casual dining brands join the fray over the weeks ahead, promoting their own discounted meal deals.
Side Dishes
• IHOP’s Pancake of the Month for July has a patriotic theme.
The fresh Red, White & Blueberry seasonal stack features four buttermilk pancakes topped with fresh blueberries, fresh strawber-
ries, and a stripe of whipped topping. The July Pancake Flavor of the Month is also available as a side in IHOP’s pancake breakfast combo. There are IHOP restaurants locally at the Five Town Plaza in Springfield and on Riverdale Street in West Springfield.
• On Tuesday, July 16, Barstow’s Dairy Store and Bakery in Hadley will be holding its July Burger Night.
The event, which runs from 5 to 7 p.m., features a special selection of made-to-order burgers as well as live country music by Old Country Road.
More July Burger Night details are available online.
Barstow’s Dairy Store and Bakery answers at 413-5862142.
• Steaming Tender Restaurant in Palmer is teaming up with the Greater Good Imperial Brewing Company of Worcester to present a free beer tasting on
When and how did you decide to open a brewery in Wilbraham?
I was working in the printing industry at the time, which is an industry that has struggled since the invention of the internet, so I thought it might be time to try something different. My wife supported the idea and so we began doing business planning and looking for a location. After spending a couple years pursuing possible locations in Brimfield and Palmer,
July 11.
The tasting session, which will run from 6 to 8 p.m., will feature a selection of Greater Good’s brews. “Merch” giveaways and a special complimentary dessert made by Steaming Tender will be included with the purchase of any pint of Greater Good beer.
For more details, reach out to the Steaming Tender Restaurant at 413-283-2744.
• The Munich Haus German Restaurant in Chicopee is bringing back its popular Lobsterfest on Wednesday, July 24.
The event, which starts at 6 p.m., includes a 6-to-8-pound lobster for each guest along with clam chowder, Caesar salad, boiled potato, seasonal vegetable, and a strawberry sundae.
The price for one Lobsterfest feast is $120; two people can “split” a lobster for $140. Tax and gratuity are extra. Prepaid reservations are required and can be made online at munichhaus.com or by calling 413-594-8788.
• From Friday, July 12 at 4 p.m. to Sunday, July 14 at 8 p.m., the Yarde Tavern in South Hadley will be celebrating a Portuguese Weekend. Throughout the threeday period, the Tavern’s menu will feature authentic Portuguese specialties and, on Friday, July 12, from 6 to 9 p.m., Phil Ferreira will be performing. Call the Tavern at 413-3154339 for more information.
Barstow’s Dairy Store and Bakery in Hadley will host its July Burger Night on July 16. Above is Denise Barstow, marketing and education manager at Barstow’s Longview Farm.
(DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN, FILE)
Hugh Robert Off The Menu
Gavi white wines from Italy perfect for summer
LOOKING FOR SOMEthing different to drink this summer?
Perhaps you want to shake up what wine you have with dinner?
Believe me. I know how easy it is to fall into familiar habits, especially when it comes to affordable white wines. For me, there’s nothing quite like a New Zealand sauvignon blanc or Provence rose on a warm, summer night.
But one of the great things about wine is there are so many new ones just waiting to be discovered.
This week, that “new” wine is an old wine that’s been around for a while.
Gavi.
Never heard of it?
This week, you can learn all about these delightful Italian white wines. I’ve also included tasting notes for two Gavis that cost less than $15 a bottle.
But in general, let me simply say that Gavi wines taste crisp, clean and refreshing finish.
So if you love New Zealand sauvignon blancs or other types of flinty white wines, you’ll probably adore these Italian gems.
Another great thing about these white wines — they still taste great, even after they warm up a bit in the glass.
Hope you enjoy.
What is Gavi?
The short answer is Gavi is a type of white wine from the Gavi region in Italy. The longer answer is coming up below. For now, just remember that Gavi refers to where this wine comes from, not the grape used to make Gavi wine. And if you’re looking for Gavi wine in a store, simply look for “Gavi” or “Gavi Di Gavi” on the label. If it says “Gavi Di Gavi,” that means the grapes come from the town of Gavi.
Where is Gavi?
Gavi is located in the northern part of Italy (more northwestern) in the Pied-
mont section of the country. Piedmont is a massive wine region in Italy that stretches all the way up in the Italian Alps. Gavi is near the southern part of Piedmont close to the Mediterranean Ocean and not far from Genoa, which is located on the water near the French Riviera and Monaco. I should add that the soil in the Gavi region has a rich, mineral-like quality. As a result, the wines have a rich, mineral-like flavor and finish.
History of Gavi
Italian winemakers in the Gavi region have been making Gavi white wines since the late 1800s. However, Gavi wines only received official recognition for DOC status (“Denominazione di Origine Controllata”) in 1974. Then in 1998, Gavi wines were upgraded to DOCG status (”Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita”). In English, DOCG translates as
Beer
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Fieldcrest Brewing Co. found a home on Boston Road in Wilbraham.
The property had been a bar and restaurant for years, so there was a lot of existing infrastructure already in place that made it conducive to transitioning the space into a small brewery and taproom. We started the licensing process and buildout in 2018 and opened late April of 2019.
Do you have any specific goals for the brewery?
“For me, owning a brewery gives me the opportunity to create beer and meet so many great people that I wouldn’t have met otherwise.”
Adam Field, Fieldcrest Brewing Company
Which of your beers would you recommend to someone visiting the brewery for the first time and why?
Italian winemakers in the Gavi region have been making Gavi white wines since the late 1800s.
“Controlled and Guaranteed Designation of Origin.” And that G on the end of DOC means that wine officials in Italy classify Gavi as DOCG since they believe these wines are extra special and of higher quality than DOC wines.
Gavi wine grapes
Now for the easy part. Gavi wines are made 100% with cortese grapes. These white wine grapes have been around since the 1600s and are only primarily grown in the Gavi region to make Gavi wines. So if you see “cortese” anywhere on the wine label, odds are that white wine is a Gavi wine.
Wine tasting notes
2022 Picollo Ernesto Gavi Di Gavi ($12.99 at Table & Vine in West Springfield)
Tasting notes: Absolutely love this bright, crisp, refreshing white wine. Before you even take a sip, you’ll probably notice the lively fruit-like aromas, including hints of
SEE WINE, PAGE D10
Our focus has always been our taproom. We try to have a good variety of beers served in a comfortable atmosphere where the local community can gather and enjoy a pint or pick up some beer to go. The beers we are probably most known for are our F-Bomb New England IPA and our Fieldcrest ESB. We have recently increased our production and are starting to put more beer out in stores, bars, and restaurants. We are also working on adding a second location to give customers another place to enjoy Fieldcrest beer.
You have mentioned that you like old English-style ales. What about them makes them special to you?
There was a lot of English influence on early craft beer in New England, so maybe that had an impact. I like that English ales can be very flavorful while still having lower ABV, making them well suited for having a couple pints.
You also mentioned that you often have beers on cask. Why is that important to you?
A hand-pulled pint of cask ale is the ultimate way to experience English style ales. The softer, natural carbonation makes for increased drinkability while the slightly warmer temperature brings out more flavor.
I generally ask what beers they normally drink and then suggest something we have on that would be similar. If it is someone that enjoys a wide range of beer then I would suggest an ESB on cask since it is something you can’t experience very many places.
What has been the biggest surprise so far in opening your brewery?
When we opened the taproom, I knew we would have “regulars,” but what I didn’t know was how well we would get to know them and how so many would become our friends.
What’s you favorite aspect of owning a brewery?
Beer brings people together. For me, owning a brewery gives me the opportunity to create beer and meet so many great people that I wouldn’t have met otherwise.
How many taps are at your brewery and what is capacity for patrons?
We have eight taps and two beer engines. One of the taps is dedicated to our hard seltzer and features rotating flavors. Our taproom can accommodate up to 80 people indoors, and we have a deck with outdoor seating for 20. Well-behaved dogs on a leash are permitted on the deck only.
Fieldcrest Brewing is located at 2343 Boston Road in Wilbraham. Fieldcrest also partners with Fern Valley Farms (758 Main St. in Wilbraham) where it runs a beer garden on weekends from mid-July through mid-October.
The two Gavi wines recommended this week. (KEN ROSS PHOTO)
Ken Ross Wine Press
CALENDAR
THURSDAY
Florence Summer Concert Series: Thu., 6:30-8 p.m. Florence Civic Center, Jose Gonzalez. Food truck: Riff's Joint. 90 Park St., Florence. Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival 2024, Ballet du Grand Theatre de Geneve.: Thu., 8 p.m.; Fri. and Sun., 2 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 8 p.m. In the Ted Shawn Theatre. Tickets start at $65. 358 George Carter Road, Becket. 413-243-0745 or jacobspillow.org.
Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival 2024, MoBBallet - Creating Pathways to Performance: Thu., 6 p.m. On the Henry J. Leir Stage. Tickets from $40. 358 George Carter Road, Becket. 413-243-0745 or jacobspillow.org.
Majestic Theater Summer 2024, Center Stage Motown Review: Thu., 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Fri., 7:30 p.m. Majestic Theater, For tickets, call 413-747-7797, $28, $26. 131 Elm St., West Springfield, or majestictheater.com.
Performing Arts Summer Workshops with Pioneer Valley Symphony: Thu.-Fri., Episcopal Church of St. James and Andrews Church. Sliding scale: $175-$325 per workshop (register for two or more for $25 off each workshop). 71 Federal St., Greenfield.
Rainbow LGBTQIA+ & Allies
Coffee Social Hour: Thu., South County Senior Center, meets on the 2nd Thu. of the month, 22 Amherst Road, Sunderland.
Story Time at The Longmeadow
Shops: Thu, 10 a.m. The Longmeadow Shops, in front of J. Crew Factory, held in partnership with Storrs Library. This is a free event, with a rain date planned for July 18. Face painting from Dazzle Day Face Painters. Join staff from Storrs Library for fun stories, a few movement activities, and a take-home Craft Kit (while supplies last). No registration is required. Fun for all ages, 690 Bliss Road, Longmeadow.
Thursday Night Concert: Thu., 6:30 p.m. Chicopee Main Library, Crowes Pastures. Free. 449 Front St., Chicopee, 413-594-1800.
FRIDAY
Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival 2024, Ballet du Grand Theatre de Geneve: See Thursday listing Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival 2024, Merce Cunningham, Liz Gerring, Kyle Abraham - Three Duets: Fri., 6 p.m. On the Henry J. Leir Stage. Rain or shine tickets from $35. 358 George Carter Road, Becket. 413-243-0745 or jacobspillow.org.
Majestic Theater Summer 2024, Center Stage Motown Review: See Thursday listing On the Boards '24: Fri.-Sat, 7 p.m. LAVA Center, "The Moon Over Us," written by Beth Filson and directed by Penney Hulten; "Cancer Mom," written by Steve Poulin and directed by Tracy Grammer. $5-$15 sliding scale, ($1-$2 for Card to Culture participants). 324 Main St., Greenfield. Performing Arts Summer Workshops with Pioneer Valley Symphony: See Thursday listing
Rainbow LGBTQIA+ & Allies Coffee Social Hour: Fri, 1 p.m. Northampton Senior Center, Gay Men's Group. 67 Conz St., Northampton. 413-587-1228 or northamptonseniors.com.
Springfield's 2024 Summer “Movies in the Park”: Fri., 8:30 p.m. Forest Park, "Elemental.” Bring your own blankets, lawn chairs, and snacks. Takes place at the Amphitheater. No rain date. Free and open to the public. Sumner Avenue, Springfield.
Tanglewood 2024 Season, BSO and Andris Nelson with Boston Ballet: Fri., 8 p.m. Tanglewood, Shed. $22-$95. 297 West St., Lenox. 888-266-1200 or tanglewood.org.
SATURDAY
Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival 2024, Ballet du Grand Theatre de Geneve: See Thursday listing Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival 2024, The MasterZ at Work Dance Family: Sat., 6 p.m. On the Henry J. Leir Stage. Rain or shine tickets from $35. 358 George Carter Road, Becket. 413-243-0745 or jacobspillow.org.
Majestic Theater Summer 2024, Retro Floyd: Sat, 7:30 p.m. Majestic Theater, $28, $26. 131 Elm St., West Springfield. 413-747-7797 or majestictheater.com.
Matt Fraser: Sat, MGM Springfield, Aria Ballroom, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $53. 1 MGM Way, Springfield. On the Boards '24: See Friday listing Pioneer Valley Water Garden & Koi
Club 29th Annual Pond Tour: Sat.Sun, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Pioneer Valley Water Garden and Koi Club, Visit beautiful ponds and gardens in Hampshire and Hampden Counties in Mass. All tickets must be purchased online. Visit pioneervalleykoipond.club.
Tanglewood 2024 Season, BSO and Andris Nelsons with Yuja Wang: Sat., 8 p.m. In the Shed. $32-$186. 297 West St., Lenox. 888266-1200 or tanglewood.org.
SUNDAY
"Do It Now": Sun, 2-4 p.m. Peskeomskut Park, Poetry, political commentary and musical improv featuringcBeat Poet Paul Richmond, World Music percussionist Tony Vacca, and Master Guitarist John Sheldon. On site book fair. Rain date July 21, Avenue A and 7th Street, Turners Falls.
Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival 2024, Ballet du Grand Theatre de Geneve.: See Thursday listing North Hall Arts Festival 2024: Sun, 2 p.m. North Hall Theatre, Squeezebox Stompers, Free, donations accepted. 40 Searle Road, Huntington. 413-667-5543 or northhallhuntington.org.
Pioneer Valley Water Garden & Koi Club 29th Annual Pond Tour: See Saturday listing Sevenars Concerts 2024: Sun., 4 p.m. Sevenars Academy, Sevenars "Family and Friends" No reservations needed. $20 suggested donation. Ireland Street at Route 112, Worthington, 413-238-5854 or sevenars. org.
CONTINUES FROM PAGE D9
pear and peach. Taste-wise, this wine’s flavors include a wide array of tart, crisp, fruit-like notes, including pear, lemon, peach and apricot. There’s also a hint of sea salt that gives this wine a delightful finish and texture.
2022 La Caplana Gavi Del Commune Di Gavi ($14.99 at Table & Vine)
Tasting notes: Like the first wine, this Gavi has a wonderful, tart-like flavor and aromas. However, the flavors here are slightly more muted and contain a more green apple-like finish as well as hints of lemon and sea salt. Let me add that both wines have vigorous, lively flavors and aromas. In addition, this wine takes a little longer to open up. So if you decide to get both wines, my advice would be to start with the Picollo, then switch to this wine later. Either way, you honestly can’t go wrong with either Gavi. Cheers!
Wine Press by Ken Ross appears on Masslive.com every Monday and in The Republican’s Weekend section every Thursday.
• A unique West County tradition, the annual Bridge Dinner in Shelburne Falls is planned for Sunday, July 28, with seating starting at 4:30 p.m. An event that benefits the athletic programs at the Mohawk Trail Regional High School, the dinner is served outdoors on the historic Iron Bridge spanning the Deerfield River.
Prepared by Hillside Organic Catering and served by Mohawk Trail student athletes, the menu showcases locally sourced ingredients. As their main course, guests have a choice of filet mignon, herbed parmesan chicken breast, or vegetable lasagna.
Tickets are $100 and can be purchased at Eventbrite.com;
the event’s sponsor, the Mohawk Trail Athletic Association, is absorbing Eventbrite’s normal convenience fee.
More information on the Bridge Dinner can be had by emailing mohawktrailathleticassociation@gmail.com.
• The Student Prince Cafe and Fort Restaurant in Springfield has organized its Rock N Roll Beer Dinner VII for Thursday, July 25. The five-course dinner, which is scheduled to start at 6 p.m., takes its inspiration on a dishby-dish basis from favorite rock n’ roll tunes.
The dinner is priced at $80, with tax and gratuity included.
Tickets can be ordered online.
The Student Prince Cafe and Fort Restaurant answers at 413-734-7475.
• The Table 3 Restaurant Group in Sturbridge will be presenting what it’s billing
as “a world of coastal indulgence” on July 24. That’s when Table 3′s function venue, the Barn at Wight Farm, will be the site of the “Not Your Average Clambake.”
Slated to begin at 6 p.m., the clambake will feature spit-roasted prime rib, a whole lobster and steamers as well as andouille sausage and shrimp. Other menu elements include roasted corn-bacon chowder, a minted watermelon salad, corn on the cob, and a strawberry shortcake dessert.
Cost for all the enjoyment is $85, not including gratuity or tax. Contact the Barn at Wight Farm at 774-241-8450 for more details.
• On Wednesday, July 24 the Starting Gate at GreatHorse in Hampden is hosting “Sounds of Summer,” a dinner
and performance experience.
A menu celebrating the flavors of summer is in store for those attending, and live steel drum performances will set the mood.
Tickets are $65 plus a convenience fee and can be purchased online.
GreatHorse answers at 413566-8010.
• White Lion Brewing Company’s taproom at Tower Square in downtown Springfield is presenting the first of two July Jazz Brunches on Sunday, July 14, from noon to 3 p.m.
Hartford-based Ben Malynoski Plus 2 will be performing, and the brunch menu at White Lion will be enhanced with new items.
For more details, contact the White Lion Tower Square taproom at 413-455-0820.
A second July Jazz Brunch is
planned for July 28.
• On Monday, July 15, Champney’s Restaurant & Tavern at the Deerfield Inn will host another of its kidsday-out Fancy Nancy Luncheons. Hosted by Mrs. Claus, the luncheon, which begins at 11:30 a.m., features a reading of Jane O’Connor’s modern kids’ classic “Fancy Nancy.” Those attending are encouraged to dress in their “fancy” best. Champney’s regular luncheon menu and kids’ menu will be available. Reservations are suggested and can be made by calling 413-774-5587.
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.
Live Wire
Today’s column will feature a plethora of shows that you can enjoy under the sun or stars. Let’s start with the rest of this month and we’ll catch up with August in a future column.
The Florence Summer Music Series will feature Latin salsa music from Jose Gonzalez on July 11 at 6:30 p.m. The
series is held at the gazebo near the Florence Civic Center at 90 Park St. In downtown Northampton, Vimana will bring their experimental rock sounds to the Summer on Strong series (Strong Avenue) on July 11 at 5 p.m. Also downtown, King Radio and Simple Friend will play the Bands on Brewster series (next to the Northampton Brewery) on July 18 from 6-8 p.m.
Old favorites The Lone-
some Brothers will play Angel Park in Williamsburg at 6 p.m. on July 12, followed by a show at the Easthampton Public Library at 6:30 p.m. on July 14. The band is celebrating 38 years in the business.
Easthampton’s Millside Arts in the Park series has a host of great shows each Friday and Saturday night. Next up there is the classic rock of Above the Treeline at 6:30 on July 12, followed by
a battle of the bands on July 20 from noon to 5 p.m. The series will then bring Jerry Brookman and the Spinning Hearts to the stage on July 27. As far as bigger concerts, Old Crow Medicine Show will play the Summer Stage at Tree House Brewing on July 18. If you’re looking to do some good with your entertainment dollar, Mr. G will play a benefit concert for Grow Food Northampton at 6 p.m. on July 21 in Look
Park’s Pines Theater. MGM Springfield has a Billy Joel tribute band, We May Be Right, lined up for July 12, with the Latin sounds of Sensacion Urbana playing there on July 19. Both shows are held at the outdoor Plaza. Last but not least, Pioneer Valley Brewery will wrap up July with a “Christmas in July “ show featuring Groove Prophet July 27. The event will also feature a boat parade and fireworks.
my mother was a medium, but they never talked about their gift or shared it with the world. Back in those days — the ’50s, ’60s, ’70s — you really couldn’t talk about it, connecting with the other side. They only told a few friends and family members. My grandmother died when I was 3 years old. When I was growing up, I would also see and hear the departed. It started out with hearing my name being whispered. As I got older, I would see these full body apparitions when I was alone in bed, in the schoolyard, down in my playroom — souls would come to me and make their presence known. I was petrified, didn’t know I had a gift and thought our house was haunted, or where I was going was haunted. I didn’t realize I had an ability and I ran from it for years. We eventually moved to Boston where my dad worked for the city. Shortly after high school, I found myself trying to figure out what I was supposed to do with my life. For most of my life I put my ability aside — sensing, hearing, feeling the departed. But one thing that always remained with me was that I always felt people on a different level, their pain, their emotions. I was really empathic and felt what other people were going through. I always felt a calling to help people. At the time I was attending UMass Boston, but left to become an EMT. Around that time, I also felt the need to see a medium. I knew that I had something and wanted to see what those voic-
es were that I was running away from. The medium changed my life. I learned that I wasn’t supposed to be running away, that I had a gift to be embraced to help connect people with loved ones in the spirit world, and to show everyone that there is life after death.
Q. Did you ever tell your mom what was going on, your schoolfriends?
A. When I was younger, I did tell my mom what was happening. She tried to help me embrace it and asked me who were the souls coming to me and what were they saying. But I didn’t want to listen to her because I was afraid of what I was seeing, feeling, experiencing. I was petrified. When you have two mediums in a room, a soul only connects with one of them, so she couldn’t soothe my fears because she couldn’t sense what I was feeling at the time. When I got older and was in the first, second, third grade, I would tell some of my friends that I could see spirits. They went home and told their parents who told them that it was just my imagination, that I was playing pretend. I would argue with my friends, telling them that I wasn’t making it up. It started to get me into trouble at school and they told me to knock it off. Eventually the school called my mom, telling her I should see a therapist. That’s when she explained to me that there are some things you need to keep to yourself, and this was one of them.
Q. What will you be doing at the Aria Ballroom at
to say goodbye to someone, or there is an issue in the family to resolve.
Q. Who do most people want to be connected with?
MGM?
A. I never know what is going to happen. Every single event is different. I have been doing this for 15 years now and I can tell you that there have been no two readings that are the same. What is really cool is that when I take the stage, the souls start talking to me and call me over to different family members, people in the audience. For example, when I look out into the audience, I see souls with every single person. One minute I might be talking to someone in the front row who lost their mom, then I’m jumping off the stage and running to someone in the back who lost their sister or mother, or off to the side of the room where someone has lost their son or daughter. During the event, it is all about the connections and healing and learning about the afterlife and that every soul has a deep story to share. I begin the night by telling the audience my story and explaining to them what to
expect, how the souls communicate with me and come through. And right after that it is message after message coming through and I really feel as if I am the operator in heaven. My goal is to get to as many people in the audience as possible, so I am literally running throughout the room delivering messages. What is amazing is that so many people come in scared, anxious, nervous, but leave with a newfound hope that they are not alone and their loved ones are truly with them.
Q. Do people in the audience need to raise their hands to get your attention?
A. I go where the spirits tell me. Not every soul has a message. Everyone wants to hear from somebody, but you just can’t go and dial up their number. When connecting with the other side, there is a reason they are coming through. They may have an urgent message to deliver, didn’t have a chance
A. I think everybody wants to know that there is life after death. That is one of the reasons they attend, even the people who don’t carry a direct message, they want to know there is something more to life after death. For some people it is hearing from their child, for some it is a best friend or husband or sister. These events are so much more than shows in my eyes, they really let people know there is life after death and that your loved ones are still with you. And when you leave the event, what I am hoping is that people know how to connect with loved ones in a different way by seeing signs sent to them or feeling their spiritual presence.
Q. Do you ever have any peace?
A. No. It is always a 24-hour work zone. But I really love what I do because I can help so many people to heal.
Q. What do you say to skeptics?
A. I say come and attend. I have a really good track record with turning skeptics into believers. Some will remain skeptics, but for the most part I have been able to help so many people reconnect with loved ones. So, before you knock it, come and join us — all skeptics are welcome.
TV psychic Matt Fraser conducts a live reading at the Hilton Garden Inn in Bloomfield on Oct. 11, 2018. (STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE / BILL LYONS)
Mandie Strange FX — born Amanda Pacitti — has garnered thousands of followers on social media with her cosplay and makeup looks, which includes paying tribute to well-known characters like Beetlejuice, Corpse Bride and Art the Clown from “Terrifier” as well as her own original looks, like a pop-art zombie and a “Zombunny” (that’s zombie bunny).
“I’ve always been a creative person and super into art especially when I was younger, I was always drawing and painting,” Pacitti said in an interview with The Republican. “I’m also into comics. That’s where the cosplay came from I suppose, and my love of horror movies got me into FX makeup. After beauty
Room 4, and cosplay contests for individuals, groups, and children, with prizes for each category. Cosplay contests, celebrating the art of dressing up as a character from a movie, book, or video game, are open to everyone
A vendors hall will be lined wall-to-wall with vendors selling everything from comics to trading cards and collectibles, with a complete list available online at springfieldcomiccon.com/ exhibitors.
A diverse lineup of panels includes, on Saturday, a Q&A session with John “Dak” Morton, 11-11:45 a.m.; a Q&A session with Duncan Rouleau, noon-12:45 p.m.; a Q&A session with Wayne Grayson, 1-1:45 p.m.; a Q&A session with X-Men voice vast members, 2-2:45 p.m.; and a Q&A session with various comic creators, 3-3:45 p.m.
Tickets range in price from $15 to $50. A $50 VIP package includes a limited-edition print, an exclusive badge, VIP first wave entry at 10 a.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. Sunday, and advance seating for panels.
school 12 years ago, I just kind of merged my passion for art and makeup.”
Pacitti’s looks typically begin with a rough sketch of her idea — and sometimes, the looks just “pop into her head,” she said.
“I usually put on music and get ‘into the zone,’ I say,” she said. “The length of time it takes to do a body paint can range, depending on the complexity of the look. Most paints take me anywhere from two to six hours to complete.”
While she will not be doing a full body paint this weekend, due to the expected high heat and humidity, Pacitti will be there in cosplay. But guests will have to visit her booth to see who she’ll be dressed up as.
“I have a fun small photo op area I’m putting together for everyone so we can take pictures when they come see me,” Pacitti said.
The convention will also offer a Game Room hosted by Haven Games and Hobbies, open both days in Meeting
Sunday will offer a Q&A session with WWE superstar Tugboat, from noon-12:45 p.m.; and a Q&A session with Ralph Macchio, Marvel Legends comic creator, from 1-1:45 p.m. All panels will be held in Meeting Room 3. Down the hall, a dedicated “Kids Love Comics” room will offer children-specific guests and programming.
Tickets range in price from $15 to $50. A $50 VIP package includes a limited-edition print, an exclusive badge, VIP first wave entry at 10 a.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. Sunday, and advance seating for panels.
A weekend pass is $30, with entry at 10:15 a.m. on Saturday and 11:30 a.m. on Sunday; single-day passes are $20 for Saturday and $15 for Sunday. Children 10 and under are admitted free with the purchase of any day, weekend, or VIP pass by a parent or guardian.
For more information on Springfield Comic Con, and to purchase tickets, visit springfieldcomiccon.com.
