Table Hopping February 2023

Sounds Of Syracuse

10 Years ‘Til Now Celebrating 10 Years Sharing CNY Music With You

It was early 2013 when my – our – Syracuse’s – good friend, Jack Bocchino handed the Sounds of Syracuse reins over to me. I am very happy to know that Jack was my friend. Jack, was a man of high stature in the Syracuse music scene and also as a stellar general citizen. I had big shoes to fill when he retired and the opportunity to be your writer came to me.

Ten years. Eesh! ¡Hay Carumba!

That means by now I’ve had the privilege to share with you about 120 music artists and figures from the Central New York area. I’ve truly enjoyed serving the community in this way; and look forward to doing this as long as they’ll have me. I’ve insisted that the artists speak for themselves, while leaving out my “version” of their story and thus, any bias for what the artist intends to share with you.

I hope this attempt for a more intimate and authentic portrayal of our city’s musical gems is working for you. Again, thank you. For me personalty, it’s been a wonderful way to meet so many beautiful people from our rich music community. As just a plain ‘ol dude – it’s been a great way to also lead to new friendships. If you have ideas, comments and/or suggestions, I’d love to hear them. So, please write.

Ok. Since we’re celebrating... And if nobody minds...

Dear Syracuse: I’d like to take this opportunity to introduce you to “my” group, The Quatro

THE QUATRO

How Four Perfectly-Aligned Misfits Found Their Way Home

Like many stories, the Quatro story is it’s own unique story. And the story begins with each of us: John Dancks on double-bass, Heather Kubacki on cello and lead vocals, George Newton on pedal steel and vocals, and myself, Chuck Schiele, on vocals and guitar.

In our story, I suppose that I am the one who catalyzes it by having the vision to bring such an unlikely combination of instruments together. I had already been working with the legendary John Dancks in other projects and he was nudging me to start something centered around my writing. Amen to that, right? When somebody with his sort of ability and sense of class takes Faith in what I’m doing, I felt it was opportunity to grow. And in the right way. He was the first one in my corner about all of this.

In the meantime, Heather Kubacki was a former college art student of mine from my days teaching as an adjunct professor at Cazenovia College. We stayed in touch as she entered the professional marketing, creative and media world. Thus, by now, we’re in the same business, that way. Over an annual lunch visit, I learned that she used to play cello. I’ve had string players in my mix for a long time, so this turned out to be a wonderful discovery.

In the meantime, again, George Newton and I started running into each other at various music events around the city and developed a casual acquaintance. I even wrote a story on him for this column several years back. Being a huge fan of George’s approach to listening and providing melodic magic, I was interested in working with him. I never thought of having a pedal steel on my music until I met George. And when I think about it at this point, it doesn’t really matter what he plays. It’s the way he listens and decides melody and the way he plays it. It’s beautiful. He will joke that he is the band’s pet curmudgeon, with filter-less perspectives attempting truth. But when his decisions show up in his musical expressions it is nothing short of graceful. And you are in the wittiness of true elegance and beauty.

I’m the primary songwriter of the group, though I’ve encouraged everyone to try. And we’re inching our way into writing as a team more and more. We’re very supportive of each other. We remove fear factors so that we are freer to try new things.

I’ve been writing songs my whole life. I cut my musical teeth in the Southern California music scene and enjoyed a wonderful career there, before moving back to Syracuse in 2010. And I’ve been feeling right at home in this community ever since.

By the time the spring of 2019 scrolled in, these three people were approaching me in life at the same time. I wanted to abandon fitting in to any expected sound and was in a position to try something fresh. I invited them over to give the whole thing a try.

Great decision. We certainly had a lot of work to do. And just as we got going, the pandemic hit. The city, most everyone in it and it’s music scene, took the bench along with the rest of the planet.

But, we didn’t. Actually, we used it as woodshed to create a new sound. After all, we had a lot to figure out being that we, so far, were (and are) the only band with

excited about this. We figured out how to get together – in tribal fashion – and meet to develop our sound no less than once a week through the entire pandemic. For a good year and a half we were a living room band. And then we emerged when the pandemic grip loosened. When it was time to play, we felt pretty darn prepared and polished.

Along the way we discovered an incredible vocalist in Heather who was mainly on board for cello and some backing vocals. One day George and I were dialing up the PA and asked Heather to sing some stuff so we could set a reverb on her channel. She sang Phantom of the Opera. Like...Killer. We all dropped our jaws in the discovery of this wonderful singer. And started pushing her to the mic more.

Two things happened to our music in hallmark ways for the Quatro. One: As two lead singers, we’ve developed a tandem harmony singing style that we apply assertively throughout our music.

Two: Bringing Heather’s lead vocal introduced another dimension to the group, and we started choosing material and writing material to feature her voice. And actually, a third thing happened. In the love and enthusiasm the group shares, we encouraged a non-singing George into our third harmonizer, and gave him a lead vocal or two. You’re welcome.

We started running. Gigs lined-up and we started playing them. And for the last two years we’ve been running pretty hard. We released a live-in-studio New Year’s Eve concert recording per Subcat Studios in 2021. We traveled to California later the same year to play a few shows.

After an ambitious 2022 the Quatro has released a 12-song studio album on New Years Eve, again entitled, “Square Peg,” honoring the unlikeliness of us 4 misfits... Fitting so well. This time, the work is being released formally on the Subcat Record label. Eight of the tunes are Quatro originals, and four of them are covered songs.

The group’s unlikely instrumentation offers a lot of freedom. We can shove anything through it and it comes out, “Quatro-fied.” Ozzy, Sinatra, The Mamas and the Papas, Blind Faith, Korn, B-52s. Part of the fun is seeing how much we can wreck a tune and translate it to Quatro.

So what is our Quatro sound, anyway? For now, we like to think of it as Americana. With that said, we’re also on the spectrum, so-to-speak. Sometimes we can make it spacey. Or jazzy. We don’t have a drummer, yet people dance. We bring anything into it. It’s always divided by Americana. But, since we are on that sonic spectrum, we enjoy a lot of musical

“We’re very supportive of each other. We remove fear factors so that we are freer

adventure as we explore the possibilities that come with being absolutely free in a newly discovered sound.

In the pursuit of all this, our band has grown interpersonally as friends with a family sense. A case where everybody in the group has everybody’s back. This is a quality that has become evident in our sound, as well. The quatro is a band that just doesn’t play songs. This is a band that takes flight. Further, the group brings a visual element to the show since each member is an artist of some kind, in their own right. The point of the entire Quatro experience is to be just that: And experience – an experience that makes you feel better than you did when you arrived.

You can find out more about The Quatro at:

Website

https://chuckschielemusic.com/quatro

YouTube

https://bit.ly/40bBdMU

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/ ChuckSchieleQuatro/

Instagram @chuckschielequatro

Photo credits go to Sandy Roe, except for the indoor stage shot. From Tango Del Rey, San Diego, CA by Dan

available at their concert event at the Maplewood Grand Ballroom on February 23, 2023 at 7pm. The Maplewood Grand Ballroom (Holiday Inn) is located at 400 7th North Street in Liverpool.

And as the Quatro enters 2023, we find ourselves fortunate with a brand-new album that we love, thanks to Ron Keck, specifically (who engineered the record) who helped, so much, to make it possible. We have wonderful shows lined-up and still lining up.

The Quatro will be making CDs

1129 North State St. Syracuse NY 13208 Phone: 315.474.1011 Fax: 315.474.7072

Tickets are available at the Maplewood Lounge; and online at https:// chuckschielemusic.com/home

rates may be obtained by calling 315.474.1011.

Table Hopping, Inc. will not knowingly accept or publish advertising which is fraudulent or misleading in nature. The publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertising. The opinions, views and comments expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The contents of this publication are protected by copyright and may not be reproduced without express written permission from the publisher. © 2023 Table Hopping Inc.

Sports take

Syracuse Basketball Rest of Season Outlook

Right now we just don’t know what good Syracuse basketball really is. There have been ups and downs and dynamite individual performances. There have been laid eggs and inconsistent play to be sure. There are moments where you think this team could make noise in the NCAA Tournament should they get there while on the bubble. Stop me if you’ve heard that before.

Truth be told, as of this writing, they are getting better and that is a good thing because sports often times are about timing. Get hot at the right time and anything can happen. Syracuse has a few really good things going for it. The trio of Jesse Edwards, Joe Girard and Judah Mintz are players you can usually count on. The 2-3 Zone looks better and tighter. SU can always find a way at home in February. The ACC is terrible (that could also work against you because of a lack of quality wins) and some games can get stacked in the win column. Syracuse’s coaching is always a positive factor.

Old School Italian Dining

But they also have work to do. Can they get Benny Williams or Chris Bell to play consistent at both ends? If they could get one that would be huge. Both have so much potential. Or maybe Maliq Brown or Justin Taylor, both of whom are improving and play a solid, fundamental game, can shine even more. Syracuse is for sure a deeper team than in recent years but they need that consistency from 4-6 guys. Can they steal a win or two against Clemson or Duke or Virginia? Stay tuned.

You just don’t know what team will show up on a nightly basis. But, hey, that’s the story around college

basketball in a lot of places. February has to be the month for this team to make up ground. Remember, they don’t have a win against a ranked team, got blown out at the Dome by Bryant and Colgate, lost to St. John’s and got mopped by Illinois by 29 points. SU needed overtime to beat Richmond. There are two other huge factors to consider.

One, Syracuse is a very young team. You are either young and dominant (Carmelo Anthony) or young and raw. Mintz is young and can be dominant

(needs work on that jump shot, though), but SU’s other first year players are raw, which creates that inconsistent play mentioned before. Some may say you’re almost a sophomore at this point and it’s time to figure things out. Not that simple with a raw group. Secondly, the Orange, on any given night, can light it up from 3-point range. If a few things aren’t going their way one night, but they go 9-20 from 3, it masks a lot of other problems. Think of an average secondary and ground game and offensive line but you have Patrick Mahomes to bail you out.

Same deal. And we know the 3’s start and end as a team if Girard can get going.

Syracuse, since it joined the ACC, hasn’t been that great in the ACC Tournament. On paper, SU doesn’t look the part to go win the whole thing to secure an automatic bid. However, with the league being way down, this would be the year to do it.

So we wait and wonder and go to the games and watch the games to see how it all unfolds. Hoops season gets us through the brutal weather. But once we near midFebruary and think about Spring, every game is even more crucial.

Part of Spring is March. The madness and buzzer-beaters and late game drama. Wall to wall basketball. Syracuse can still get there, for sure, but there is work to be done.

After all, Jim Boeheim has always said one very important thing through his nearly 50 years of coaching on the SU Hill.

People really only remember how you play at the end.

Mike Lindsley has been in sports media for 20 years and is the host of the ML Sports Platter Podcast. Download and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Google Play. Follow and subscribe on Twitter and YouTube @mikelsports.

“Syracuse, since it joined the ACC, hasn’t been that great in the ACC Tournament.”

tales from the Vine

The Ultimate Guide to Starting A Wine Club

Starting a wine club can be a great way to connect with other people that also have a great interest in wine.

And, it is a great way to learn more about the different wines that you can find in your area, imported and exported wine.

But starting a wine club can be harder than what you might think. With this beginner’s guide to starting a wine club, you will be able to have success with starting your club and ensure that it stays successful.

How a Wine Club Should Work

Before you can just start your wine club, you need to make sure that you know how a wine club should work. There are certain rules and regulations that you should consider, in order to have a legit wine club. These are some of the things that you should know:

• Meetings normally take place, once a month

• Always choose another host for the next meeting

• Assign someone to pick up the wine for the meeting (premium, red wine or otherwise)

One meeting normally takes two to three hours, taking breaks between every three wine bottles. Make sure that there are snacks as well.

Finding the Right People

Knowing how a wine club works, isn’t the only thing you need to know before you can start your club. You need to know where to find the right people as well. Not everyone is into the wine club thing; you need to make sure that you know where to look.

The best place where you can find the right people is at wine clubs. Talking to people at other wine clubs, talking to people at night clubs where you see people enjoy drinking wine. You can also talk to friends and family that love drinking wine on special occasions. They also might know someone that might be interesting in joining the club. You will need about 25 to 35 people to have a successful wine club.

Make sure you are attracting new members

The Wine and Wine Costs of a Successful Wine Club

The success of a wine club will depend on the type of wine that you are going to taste and drink during your meetings. If you are only purchasing the cheapest wine on the market, you are going to lose members for sure.

The secret is to purchase a variety of wines for each meeting, to make sure that you are considering everyone’s taste with every meeting. A bottle of wine should vary between $20 and $40 per bottle. This is an average of what a bottle of wine costs.

Attracting New Members

With any successful wine club, you need to make sure that you are attracting new members. This is the challenging part of having a club. This is where social media comes in. You can easily attract new members by posting your wine club on social media, telling about your events, and that it is open for new

You can also post advertisements in wine shops about the date and time of your new meeting. Other essential information about

Wine clubs are relatively new, but they can be successful and a lot of fun, if you know how to start your own club. This is more than just a drinking club. You are learning more about the different wines, tasting wines and enjoy friendships. It is also a great time to meet new people with the same interests and that also like wine just as much as you do. With this beginner’s guide, you will be able to start your own wine club and have success with it.

“If you are only purchasing the cheapest wine on the market, you are going to lose members for sure.”

Golf

What Are Golf Collectibles?

For golf aficionados and fanatics, golf collectibles are among the most important and most sought-after collectors’ items available in the market. Through the years, more and more people are getting into the collection.

Novelty shops, golf stores, and several online sellers are rolling out, auctioning, and distributing many of such objects. The constantly rising demand is obviously keeping the merchandise alive.

For people who are not very familiar but are considering collecting the items, there could still be much confusion about what golf collectibles are. Technically, a golf collectible is a specially designed and manufactured object that suits the tastes and fascination of golfers and other collectors. One need not be a golfer to start collecting golf collectible items. But most golfers and fanatics would surely pass a stage even once in their lives when they would be tempted to buy and collect golf collectors’ items.

In its strict sense, golf collectibles are specifically and especially created for collecting. These are objects that are obviously having something to do with the sport. In most cases, collectible items are obviously made for display and collection. Very seldom are such objects designed and made to be actually used for playing golf. However, many people would wonder why at times, golf collectibles could even cost higher than the already expensive golf playing items.

Golf collectibles could also be distinguished from other collection items, which to some people are collected for other purposes rather than just collecting. Examples are signed golf balls (by famous golf icons) and special stamps. In many cases, such collectibles also become part of ‘collectible crazes,’ which are popular items that are especially developed for the secondary market.

Originally, golf collectibles were designed, made, and sold to serve as marketing and promotional tools to boost market appeal of main golf products. These days,

many of these objects are enthusiastically sold separately. In some shops, collectibles are more prioritized than actual golf tools, a clear indication that many people are into collecting. This is not surprising because logically, only active golfers would be serious about buying golf playing objects, while even non-players would possibly also be interested in buying collectibles. There are several commonly bought and collected golf collectibles. They include golf memorabilia, golf art,

antiques. Golf memorabilia are designed, manufactured, and sold specifically to commemorate a historical and important golf event, a superstar player, or a tournament. Examples of these are posters, publicity photographs, and other golf-related merchandise. Often, these items are sold with licenses.

Golf arts are items that are creatively and aesthetically made in connection with golf. The most commonly depicted art subjects are golf course sites, green fields, and superstars or icons of the sport. Many people are patronizing such products because they could serve more as golf collectibles; they could also be art collections, to be combined with other art pieces.

Finally, golf antiques are usually not specifically designed, manufactured, and sold for collecting. These items could be different from other collectible products because they could be made not to be collected but to be used in actual golf playing. Examples are ancient golf balls, clubs, and other tools. Such golf collectibles, just like other antiques, could accumulate further market value as time goes by, which is not surprising.

“Originally, golf collectibles were designed, made, and sold to serve as marketing and promotional tools to boost market appeal of main golf products.”

PRESENTS

The 25th annual

sunday, march 5, 2023

DESTINY USA IN THE CANYON LEVEL A Local Walk to Raise Funds to Support Local Services for Local Persons with MS in Central NY REGISTRATION 9:00AM

Preventive Medicine

The Real Statin Story

It’s February so I should be writing about something romantic but I’m not in the mood. Instead let me focus on your heart in a medical way.

Unfortunately what I am writing about will contradict everything your cardiologist and primary care doctor are telling you. I am not alone in my opinion. Check out ANY of the references below. The Weston Price Foundation does an excellent job as well reviewing this issue in very simple terms. Here’s the reference.

https://www.westonaprice.org/health-topics/modern-diseases/dangers-ofstatin-drugs-what-you-havent-been-told-about-popular-cholesterol-loweringmed icines/?gclid=CjwKCAiA2fmdBhBpEiwA4CcHzVU_PWigYmMRP2CvvFTsKnAIo3kFl_ bjiJGnPZwQX7qvWe-0ztL4xxoCG4cQAvD_BwE#gsc.tab=0

I know everyone and their sister are on statins. You have been told that somehow cholesterol is bad and that statins will prevent a heart attack. Your doctor looks at a number on a piece of paper and reaches for the prescription pad putting you on medication for life! No discussion, no research, no debate...just take a pill. Don’t worry...everyone is on these meds and they are safe and effective. These hypotheses are not proven and the bulk of the evidence suggests that both ideas

are wrong. Dr. Malcom Kendrik has written multiple books on this including The Clot Thickens and The Great Cholesterol Con. Dr. Sinatra on this side of the pond has written

similarly in his book The Great Cholesterol Myth. If you are not into books and would rather Youtube it, I offer the following...

Dr. Malhotra, https:// www.youtube.com/ watch?v=eb5SmhY30kw

Dr. Paul Mason, https:// www.youtube.com/ watch?v=I7r4j1u42V8

Dr. Michael Gregor, https://nutritionfacts.org/video/are-doctors-misleading-patients-about-statinrisksand-benefits/

But my all time favorite is the one by Dr. Ali who is a practicing interventional cardiologist. If you watch the video below you may never blindly trust your doctor again. I think that’s a good thing. Dr. Ali quickly goes through the major statin trials and shows that despite significant reductions in LDL cholesterol mortality was reduced by less than one percent! In the FOURIER trial there were more people who died in the treatment group than in the control group. How in the world does the FDA approve a drug or treatment where the group being treated has more deaths than the control group!? The same thing happened in the Pfizer mRNA vaccine trial for covid but that’s another column altogether.

Dr. Nadir Ali, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o_QdNX9etCg

These are not polemic diatribes recorded by non physicians. Drs. Malhotra and Ali are Board Certified Cardiologists...that’s right, heart doctors that have independently looked at the data...and come to very different opinions other than the guidelines. By the way did you know that there is a group called the Cholesterol Treatment Trialists Collaboration... they are the biggest source of data for the cholesterol trials but they REFUSE to release the raw data for other doctors and scientists to independently

“Just as they are trying to marginalize, and demonize doctors who are asking about the excess deaths since the covid vaccine came out, there is now a move to sanction doctors who are spreading “misinformation” about statins.”

verify their statements.

Trust us there are no side effects and everyone should take statins. Did you know they were funded by the drug companies? How can you possibly trust statements from a group that is funded by the statin makers and who refuses to release the full data.

By the way, just as they are trying to marginalize, and demonize doctors who are asking about the excess deaths since the covid vaccine came out, there is now a move to sanction doctors who are spreading “misinformation” about statins.

Just look at the basic issue. How can cholesterol be bad when it’s in breast milk? How can cholesterol be dangerous if it’s one of the 4 main fats in your brain? People born with a genetic defect that lowers their cholesterol level die prematurely. Cholesterol and its metabolic pathway are involved in many different functions in the body and blocking cholesterol has many unintended consequences downstream...too many to mention here but well covered in Dr. Ali’s video.

Your doctor gets his information from the major medical journals, not from studying the trials themselves. The former chief editor of the most prestigious medical journal had this to say. Marcia Angell wrote, “It is simply no longer possible to believe much of the clinical research that is published, or to rely on the judgment of trusted physicians or authoritative medical guidelines. I take no pleasure in this conclusion, which I reached slowly and reluctantly over my two decades as an editor of The New England Journal of Medicine.”

Finally...In a study NOT controlled by the drug companies, an article from “Pubmed Association between low density lipoprotein cholesterol and all-cause mortality: results from the NHANES 1999-2014” this study found, in Americans, that the LOWER your LDL cholesterol the greater your risk of dying from ANY cause including cancer. PMID: 34764414

Let me close by referencing Dr. Duane Graveline, former astronaut, aerospace medical research scientist, flight surgeon, and family doctor who wrote a book entitled Lipitor Thief of Memory about his personal experience on a statin.

This column only touches on the surface of this important issue but the references provided will take you much deeper. I know it’s going to upset some physicians. I have already had multiple patients say that when they approached their doctors about this controversy they were met with “Who’s the doctor here?,” “Are you putting Google against my 30 years of professional judgment?” and “I don’t have time to look at your references.” The facts are what the facts are and it’s very clear that the guidelines are controlled by big pharma. If your provider is not open to your questions and the fact that you are interested in your health and doing your own research you should get another provider. Your healthcare should be a cooperative endeavor and you have every right to ask questions and get real answers.

Until next month...get well and stay well.

Busi ness of i nterest

• syracuse.com/treasure-hunt

• The Post-Standard and the ePost-Standard

• Twitter @syracusedotcom (look for #syrtreasurehunt) • Facebook at facebook.com/ syracuse • Snapchat at syracusedotcom

Daily clues will be posted, and if you’re the lucky individual or team who locates the “treasure,” you’ll find instructions about claiming your prize: $2000!

Syracuse Winterfest IS BACK AGAIN at locations throughout downtown with games, activities, food and fun for the whole family!

Quick – what is Syracuse known for?

Well, the Franklin Auto. Air conditioners. The Erie Canal!

But let’s be honest, when you think about what Syracuse is best known for – winter is a leading contender. Long, often cold and dreary winters. But then again... in 1985, some enterprising people at the Updowntowners of Syracuse thought: instead of bemoaning winter, why not celebrate it? We all need a reason to get out and have fun when the holidays are over, the days are still short, the temperatures are still chilly (or freezing!), and the kids have a week off from school right in the middle of it. What could be more enticing than 11 days of games, races, family fun, music, meeting up with friends, fireworks – and a chance to try an incredible array of tasty food and drinks, and even vote on your favorites?

Syracuse Winterfest promises something for everyone – patrons, vendors, downtown establishments, and even out-of-town guests. Centered in the Syracuse Inner Harbor, and extending into the surrounding downtown Syracuse, you’ll find food tastings, craft beers, entertainment and activities, human dogsled racing and so much more! So, let’s take a quick peek so you can plan ahead and won’t miss a thing!

The Annual Treasure Hunt: sponsored by the Countryside Credit Union and presented by the Post-Standard, the contest begins with the opening of the festival, on Thursday, February 16. Somewhere in Onondaga County the planners have hidden a 1.5” plastic Treasure Hunt Medallion. To find it, you have to follow the clues. Check at:

Open Ice Skating will be offered at the NY State Fair Coliseum on both Fridays of the festival, February 17th and 24th, 6:30 - 8:30pm. Plan on bringing your own skates as rentals won’t be available.

And what better way to get the fun started on the first weekend of the festival than with Fireworks, on Friday evening, February 17th at 8:30pm at the Syracuse Inner Harbor Waterfront?

Maybe you have a good Cornhole game? Bring it – the competition will be held Sunday, February 19th, 11am - 5pm on East Water Street adjacent to Hanover Square. Two persons per team, and there will be prizes awarded to the top three teams. Your $100 registration includes an open bar from Noon - 4. Find out more, including application forms and waivers on the Winterfest website.

And if you haven’t already started, hurry and make your plans for the Human Dogsled Race. Your team designs and builds a sled, pulls and pushes and “mushes” it to championship on Sunday, February 19th.

Besides the popular Human Dogsled Race, COR Development, along with Helping Hounds Dog Rescue, Limp Lizard, Meier’s Creek Brewing Company at Iron Pier, C&S Companies, and Blueberries & Lace will present a full slate of family-friendly activities at the Inner Harbor on February 19th. The event will be held at the Iron Pier building (720 Van Rensselaer Street, Syracuse, NY 13204). Said Merissa Lynch, Marketing Manager for COR Development, “Every year COR’s Winterfest event at the Syracuse Inner Harbor has been a tremendous success. Proceeds from this event will support Helping Hounds Dog Rescue and its mission ‘to providing a compassionate approach to dog rescue by matching homeless dogs from overcrowded shelter systems with a loving home.’ We’d like to thank the public for their generosity, and our local partners for helping make this event such a success, and we welcome all to sign up and join the fun!”

But let’s get around to what is for many, the “main” event: the food and drinks! This is your chance to try out some of the best restaurants in town, and their best offerings.

We’ve all got our favorites when it’s time to go out and meet for drinks or dinner. But it’s also fun to discover something new – and this is a great way to do it. And it’s just $5 (no increase in price!) per tasting event, for each of the food and drink events on the tasting menu over the course of the 2 weekends, with the one exception of the Wing Walk – more about that later! And once you’ve tried all the offerings in a given event, you get to vote on your favorite food or drink.

The annual Beer Tasting will be held Sunday, February 19th from noon - 4pm. You try a 1-2 oz. sample of a variety of Syracuse and Onondaga County brewers’ best offerings. We promise, it won’t be easy. The voting that is, not the sampling!

But suppose you prefer mixed drinks? Why not sample and vote on your favorite Martinis, Sangria, Cosmopolitans, Margaritas, and of course, Bloody Marys? You can stroll around from venue to venue, try a taste of the featured offering, and then vote – and not just on the mix itself, but on the presentation, so prepare to be wowed.

The many and varied restaurants in Syracuse are also excited to take part in the Winterfest’s annual Chili and Chowder Cook-offs, the Culinary Cruise, the Sandwich Stroll, and last but not least, Sunday, February 26th from noon - 5 you can wander the streets of downtown on the famous Wing Walk ($10 per ticket presale, $15 on the day of the event), and see if you can determine which is your favorite – not an easy task, Syracuse, but we know you’re up to it! And once again, you get to cast your vote on your favorite offering!

rACuSE WINTErFEST 2023 HIGHLIGHTS

Thursday, February 16th

Medallion Hunt begins

Friday, February 17th

Free Ice Skating at NYS Fair Coliseum

Fireworks at Inner Harbor

Saturday, February 18th

Culinary Cruise

Martini Mix-off

Sangria Mix-off

Sunday, February 19th

Winterfest at the Inner Harbor Family Fun Day

Human DogSled Races

Chili Cook-off Beer Tasting Cornhole Tournament

Friday, February 24th

Free Ice Skating at NYS Fair Coliseum

Saturday, February 25th

Sandwich Stroll

Margarita Mix-off

Cosmopolitan Mix-off

Sunday, February 26th

Kids Fun with Checkers the Inventor Chowder Cook-off

Bloody Mary Mix-off Wing Walk

Hammond Jammin’ XVII Team Trivia Finals

And don’t miss the Team Trivia Finals, held in the Grand Ballroom of the Marriott Downtown on Sunday, February 26th – the games begin at 3pm!

And on the 26th, why not stop by the lobby of the Marriott with your kids for Fun with Checkers the Inventor? Shows go on throughout the afternoon, so just drop in!

There is so much more, with events taking place in any number of schools, libraries, museums and other locations and Centro is donating a route through downtown for visitors who’d like a ride. And what’s any 11-day event without music?

The Hammond Jammin’ Organ Concert is back this year, upstairs in Dinosaur Bar-B-Que on Sunday, February 17th, noon - 5. Five area bands will be jammin’ featuring their Hammond organs, while you relax, digest, and enjoy the music.

It sounds like a lot – but take a look at the lineup here, make your plans, get your tickets (and a handy map), and prepare for 11 days of fun, games, food, friends, and fest – Winterfest!

All weekend tickets are available at the Downtown Marriott street level entrance, and tickets are also available for presale at all participating locations (see the website for the details on presale!).

Syracuse Winterfest

February 16th-26th, 2023

www.syracusewinterfest.com

Brew time

Beer My Valentine

Cupid, roses, chocolate...those three words can only mean one thing during the month of February: Valentine’s Day! Love it, or hate it, the holiday is upon us and is sure to show up everywhere from over-the-top displays of pink and red in every single store you walk into, to your Facebook and Instagram feeds with their gag-tastic PDA photos and posts of undying affection between couples. You know what I’m talking about. (Heck, maybe YOU happen to be one half of those said sappy couples.) Regardless, whether you’re hitched, dating, or happily in a relationship with yourself or your pet, it’s time to make beer a part of your Valentine’s Day this year.

Love, beauty, pleasure, passion, and procreation...The Greek goddess, Aphrodite is associated with all these carnal desires. A daughter of Zeus, she is commonly depicted in much of mythology as being

exceptionally beautiful, irresistible to men, an adulteress of sorts who takes on many lovers, and is the mother of Eros, the god of lust and sexual desire. Hence, she is also the root of the word, “Aphrodisiac.” The Romans had their own goddess – Venus – who is by-and-large the same depiction, and Eros in turn being Cupid. Julius Caesar himself was a strong supporter of the cult of Venus, as she was believed to be the mother of the entire Roman nation.

The Greeks loved their wine and it was a large part of their culture, so much so that the Greeks even had a god of wine – Dionysus. (And the Romans had Bacchus as their counterpart) In the Greek play, Semele or Dionysus, written in 375 BC, the character Dionysus says, “Three bowls [of wine] do I mix for the temperate: one to health, which they empty first; the second to love and pleasure; the third to sleep.” The Greeks knew that wine, a form of alcohol, would contribute towards increased desire and pleasure. The Romans too felt that wine was intertwined with everyday life and lowering inhibitions.

Pliny the Elder was a Roman from the 1st-century AD who was a naturalist and author of a vast array of works on different topics, including wine and viticulture. He also is famous for the phrase “In vino veritas,” or “There’s truth in wine,” which is in reference to folks who can be quite honest when they’re intoxicated! (And now you know where the famous craft beer Pliny the Elder, an Imperial IPA made by Russian River Brewing in Windsor, CA gets its name!)

For all the association wine has with the Greeks and Romans, historical evidence has found that beer and brewing may have been quite popular as well. Archaeologists have recently uncovered ruins believed to have been 4000-year-old breweries in both northern and eastern areas of Greece. The sites had been burned out from fires, but the remains left behind were significant and revealed sprouted cereal grains and a two-chamber structure that may have housed beer production. The ancient Greek name for beer was “brutos” or “brytos” while the Romans used the word “cerevisia.” There are various Roman writings that mention beer including a letter from one decurion to another in the Roman cavalry making a request for beer to be sent to the men in that unit. Regardless of whether we’re talking about ancient Greece or Rome, both beer and wine were enjoyed as aphrodisiacs of sorts with drunkenness, pleasure, love, and lust running rampant.

So, should we consider beer an aphrodisiac in today’s culture? It’s probably true that any college student would give an emphatic “YES” in response to that question, and scientifically, the answer to the question is yes!...of course, it must be in moderation...for as Shakespeare put it, “[alcohol] provokes the desire, but it takes away the performance.” The thing is, alcohol – beer, wine, etc. – has scientifically been proven to increase overall desire and sexual response while decreasing inhibition. An Australian study concluded that men who on average drank a “moderate” amount of alcohol reported 30% fewer

“To put it bluntly, beer as an aphrodisiac is a VERY fine line when it comes to consumption.”

erectile dysfunction issues than men who were “non-drinkers.” In another study focusing on women, it found that women who drank a “moderate” amount of alcohol displayed higher levels of testosterone, but in men, the levels did not increase. This increased specific hormone production in women can lead to increased libido.

Though when moderation turns into excessiveness, all that “desire” and “libido” isn’t really going to get you anywhere, except for perhaps an increased probability of riskier behavior, getting yourself into trouble or it will simply help you pass out. To put it bluntly, beer as an aphrodisiac is a VERY fine line when it comes to consumption. As well, the chemical composition of beer is biphasic in that it has a stimulant effect as your blood alcohol levels increase, but once it starts to decrease, it acts as a depressant. Of course, the media, entertainment, and advertising would have you believe very differently –especially when it comes to marketing towards men.

Foods, such as oysters, chocolate, honey, chili peppers, vanilla, figs, cucumbers, pomegranates, strawberries, and herbs such as saffron, rosemary and basil, among others are considered to have aphrodisiac properties. So, if we combine and brew beer with these particular foods and spices, do we now have an aphrodisiacal craft brew? The answer to that question is possibly, as it all depends on the quantity and concentration of the elements going into the brew itself, and of course all of the ingredients are going through the many steps of the brewing process and fermentation. Therefore, it is truly anyone’s guess!

While I’ve not been reborn as the Greek goddess Aphrodite herself, I do have some suggestions for brews that I, myself, have enjoyed that you may wish to indulge in this Valentine’s Day with that special someone and decide for yourself if they have any aphrodisiac qualities!

Trippy Tree – Berries & Cream, a fruited sour by Beer Tree Brew in Port Crane, NY. (7.3% ABV) – This sour brew is conditioned on strawberry, raspberry, blackberry, blueberry, marshmallow, and vanilla. When I tell you this tastes exactly like a berry trifle, it truly does. Layer-upon-layer of berries, vanilla, cake, and marshmallow flavors, just like the actual dessert! You’ll have to take the drive on down to the Binghamton area to their brewpub for this, or perhaps plan your Valentine’s date night at either The Hops Spot in downtown Syracuse, or A.W. Wander in Manlius, both of whom have this beer on their current menu.

The Bourbon Barrel-Aged Bearded Tears series by Buried Acorn Brewing Company, Syracuse, NY. – There are 4 different brews in the series: Bearded Tears Taza® Chocolate – chocolate, chocolate, and more chocolate, Bearded Tears with Madagascar Vanilla –vanilla, marshmallow, toffee, oak, chocolate and floral notes, Bearded Tears with Salt City Coffee – boozy chocolate and coffee, and Bearded Tears with Hazelnut and Ancho Chili – caramel, chocolate, toasty, & mildly spicy; all of them checking in at a whopping 17.6% ABV. Get yourself to the Brewery located on 881 Van Rensselaer St. in Syracuse to grab these bottles.

Vincent by Buried Acorn Brewing Company (8.6% ABV) – This is a Barrel-Aged dark sour beer/wine hybrid. Currently, batch number 4

is available. Per their website: “A blend of our 1, 2, 3, and 4 year 225 Liter oak aged dark sour Emotive and our 75 Hectoliter Foeder-aged Emotive blended and refermented on 2018/2019/and 202 vintages of mixed fermentation Vincent grape must. The finished product is an elegant culmination of NY vineyard terrior and our mixed culture collected over the last 12 years. In collaboration with Heron Hill Winery.” Vincent is unique and rich and is one of my own personal favorites that Buried Acorn brews. If you enjoy dry red wine, or if your significant other isn’t necessarily into beer, but enjoys wine, this is a great little gift to pickup to enjoy together. Sold in 500mL bottles at the brewery as listed above!

This year, ditch the dozen roses, expensive jewelry, and a sub-par, over-priced dinner at an overcrowded restaurant and instead peruse the shelves of your local beer hubs for a something to share in front of a fireplace or adventure out to a brewery in search of some Aphrodite-inspired craft brews this Valentine’s Day. You never know what kind of “fun in moderation” awaits you!

Cheers!

References: www.theguardian.com/science, www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech, www. homebrewersassociation.org, www.wikipedia.com.

Computers & the Web

Sci-Fi and Reality

There are many lists circulating naming which sci-fi or scientific predictions were right about future developments. Most of them have to do with things like the cell phone, artificial limbs, and robotics.

And sci-fi has often enjoyed figuring out when and how we’re likely to destroy ourselves with our own curiosity and hubris. Look at something as old as Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein: A Modern Prometheus.” Written in 1818 – so, yes, 200 years ago – it was written at the dawn of mechanization and when the first blood transfusion had just been accomplished. She was writing a horror tale, to be sure, but at least part of the tale is right in the title: don’t “create” humans. Now, while it’s possible to consider the upside and downside of cobbling together a real human (or at least a fully biological one), it’s perhaps more of a DEW (distant early warning) not to even try to create an artificial one.

Philip K. Dick, a giant among sci-fi writers, wrote the book that informed the hit film,

“Blade Runner.” The novel “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep” was published in 1968, and suggested a world in which the androids, bred to be faster, smarter, stronger and the semi-mechanical, semi-biological slaves of human beings, rebel against their masters. The theme of rebelling robots, or AI, is not new.

Fast forward to December of 2022, and the website AI Multiple published:

“The greatest fear about AI is singularity (also called Artificial General Intelligence), a system capable of human-level thinking. According to some experts, singularity also implies machine consciousness. Regardless of whether it is conscious or not, such a machine could continuously improve itself and reach far beyond our capabilities. Even before artificial intelligence was a computer science research topic, science fiction writers like Asimov were concerned about this and were devising mechanisms (i.e. Asimov’s Laws of Robotics) to ensure the benevolence of intelligent machines.

For those who came to get quick answers:

Will singularity ever happen? According to most AI experts, yes.

When will the singularity happen? Before the end of the century.”

(https://research.aimultiple.com/artificial-general-intelligence-singularity-timing/)

Naturally, many will suggest that this will never occur, and that many sci-fi promises, particularly about robots, have never and likely will never happen.

But then we’re reminded of Nicola Tesla, and his assurance in a 1926 Collier’s article that “When wireless is perfectly applied the whole earth will be converted into a huge brain, which in fact it is, all things being particles of a real and rhythmic whole. We shall be able to communicate with one another instantly, irrespective of distance. Not only this, but through television and telephony we shall see and hear one another as perfectly as though we were face to face, despite intervening distances of thousands of miles; and the instruments through which we shall be able to do his will be amazingly simple compared with our present telephone. A man will be able to carry one in his vest pocket.”

Well, that device in your pocket may not be in a vest pocket, but it certainly can do

everything he promised, and more. So when it comes to intelligent technology, never say never. And consider whether running headlong into AI, or even engineered biological humanity, comes with a “Buyer Beware” tag.

Moving on to another sci-fi book, written in 1967, we find ourselves promised death by ice, rather than the fire now predicted. “Ice,” by Anna Kavan, “(her) last (and best) sci fi novel provides a haunting, claustrophobic vision of the end of the world, where an unstoppable monolithic ice shelf is slowly engulfing the earth and killing everything in its wake.”

“The Time of the Great Freeze” by Robert Silverberg, published in 1988, promised that a great freeze would drive mankind underground, and only after centuries do some intrepid adventurers come up to the surface to try to make contact with other surviving humans.

The 2004 film “The Day After Tomorrow” tells the story of climatologist Jack Hall, whose research pointed out the possibility of a superstorm developing and setting off catastrophic natural disasters across the world. Only rather than Earth melting down, it freezes as the Atlantic current slows and then stops.

In fact, apocalyptic sci-fi about the big freeze were not uncommon before about 1990. After that, it was assumed too preposterous for the enemy to be cold when we were promised we were all going to cook, not chill. In fact, authors and movies that were wellreceived and respected are now considered laughably unscientific if the temperature enemy isn’t heat and flooding.

Reviewers with 20-20 hindsight find it hard not to be snarky about sci-fi that promised cold rather than heat, as we are all certain (though we weren’t as late as the 1970s) what the temperature of Earth will be in 10-20 years, especially if we don’t “do something!” Still, no matter what the prediction, sci-fi has usually taken one of two paths when it comes to the climate: either it’s a threat from space that we can’t or don’t avert, or it’s our own darn fault that we didn’t stop the catastrophe when we still could!

Finally, there is death by virus, or biological agent, and again, though history has presented us with the Bubonic Plague, anthrax, and the 1918 influenza, it is a man-made plague that occupies sci-fi’s imagination. And there are some truly terrifying and in many ways accurately depicted versions of how man is his own worst enemy, especially when it comes to illness.

1995’s film, “Outbreak” and 2011’s “Contagion” are perhaps the most accurate depictions of a world facing an epidemic of truly enormous proportions, and the literal race against a virus that can spread faster than human beings have the resources to combat. From people wearing masks and hiding out from one another, to a CDC that can’t quite decide if people should panic or remain calm, watching – as we recently did – a virus spread from “somewhere” to Milan to the US within a few short months, and people running from a sneezing neighbor and carrying hand sanitizer to take out the

trash – these were two films that did an excellent job of predicting how the world might react to another even more virulent pandemic.

I recall reading “Earth Abides” as a kid. It was written in 1949, and tells the story of Isherwood Williams, who is bitten by a snake while hiking, and after a long and frightening illness, heads back home to find the bite probably saved him from the illness that carried away nearly every other human on earth. Williams and a few others are left to figure out how to carry on.

And of course there is sci-fi great, Richard Matheson’s wonderful “I Am Legend,” telling the story of a lone man who has survived a pandemic that creates vampires who now hunt him, and the ingenious ways he has found to stay alive – foraging only during the day, and hunting his enemies by night.

The point of most of these pandemic books and films usually was that the virus, or pathogen, was not typically “natural.” Often, it was either manufactured, or amped up by research left to play without limits – and humankind paying the price of our endless curiosity and fearless willingness to “see what happens.”

Sci-fi writers love to play with the “what if” concept – and the very best ones usually offer us a warning. Sometimes they get it very wrong, others seem to have had insight into the future, and for others – the jury of time is still out.

“From people wearing masks and hiding out from one another, to a CDC that can’t quite decide if people should panic or remain calm.”

dining Out

Pasta’s on the Green Pub & Pizzaria

In February there is a lot of focus on love so there is no better time to find a new restaurant that you absolutely love! If you want to find a place where you will just love the food and the atmosphere then you should look no further than Pasta’s on

friend’s house (but with an awesome craft beer selection and delicious food!) The friendly staff goes above and beyond to make every guest feel like they have just stepped into their favorite neighborhood bar or restaurant where they are regulars. If you were lucky enough to be there on a night where Danielle is bartending and Ella is serving I can guarantee you that you will have excellent service and great conversation! Danielle (who I’ve known since childhood but had no idea she worked here) has an amazing way of chatting with the customers and making sure that their time there is absolutely enjoyable. Ella did a great job of making sure that we enjoyed our food and that our drinks were always topped off!

There is always something going on at Pasta’s on the Green and there’s always a way to have a good time. You can play the jukebox and enjoy some great draft beer selections and a menu that does “traditional bar food“ better than just about anyone around. If you like live music there’s no better place than Pasta’s on the Green for live music just about every weekend. We were there on a Thursday and couldn’t help but notice all of the people having an absolute blast playing in their cornhole league that happens every Thursday inside in the banquet hall! And even though I know the snowflakes are still falling in central New York be sure to keep Pasta’s on the Green at Foxfire in mind when the snow melts because they have an absolutely great party on the patio!

I really appreciate the menu at Pastas on the Green because it’s obvious that they know what they are good at: pasta, pizza, wings, wraps, sandwiches, and burgers!

the Green. Pasta”s on the Green is located at Foxfire Golf Course in Village Green in Baldwinsville. This family owned and operated restaurant is conveniently located at One Village Blvd., North in Baldwinsville and the pub pizzeria banquet and party facility is open year-round. They are open daily beginning at 11am, serving great lunch and dinner selections and they offer both dine in (inside and out) or take out!

When you step into Pasta’s on the Green you can’t help but notice the warm and friendly atmosphere. It feels less like going out and more like stepping in to your

At Pastas on the Green, they make their own fresh dough used for their pizzas, calzones, and pizza rolls! I swear you can taste the difference in every bite whether you are creating your own pizza choosing one of their specialty pizzas like the Utica greens pizza (red or white pizza topped with seasoned greens, Italian sausage and ricotta) or the Italian Classic (red or white pizza topped with marinated roasted red peppers, Gorgonzola cheese, Italian sausage, and house pesto). I also need to point out that they also offer gluten-free pizza and flatbread pizza. The personal pizza rolls and calzones look absolutely amazing and I can’t wait to try a buffalo chicken calzone! Since I’ve got you in the mood for pizza I also have to point your attention to their fantastic wings selection. Try their boneless, traditional, or char grilled wings and I promise you will not be disappointed! Personally I had a hard time choosing

“I really appreciate the menu at Pastas on the Green because it’s obvious that they know what they are good at: pasta, pizza, wings, wraps, sandwiches, and burgers!”

between the Nashville hot chicken sandwich (fried chicken breast shaken in Nashville hot sauce served on a brioche roll with mayo, lettuce and pickles and a side of fries), a burger, and their signature end loaded sandwich. The end loaded sandwich, exclusively at Pasta‘s, made with half a loaf of fresh Italian point bread is also lovingly referred to as a truly unique “sangweech” that you can have filled with chicken Parm, meatballs or Philly cheesesteak!

Kyle, the kids, and I arrived at Pastas on the Green on a chilly winter evening but we were immediately warmed up once we were greeted by the friendly staff. We couldn’t help but notice that everyone there really seemed to enjoy being there and that includes the staff! We were seated at the cozy table and eagerly looked at the menu to make our selections. We decided to start out with an order of the Bavarian pretzel sticks (soft, warm pretzels rolled in kosher salt with spicy mustard and cheddar cheese sauce for dipping). We really loved how soft and buttery they were and how they pair perfectly with the mustard and warm cheese sauce. We also ordered the sampler platter which was loaded with chicken tenders, mozzarella sticks, breaded fried mushrooms, and onion rings and served with four dipping sauces. We all really enjoyed this dish and the kids could not get enough of the chicken tenders and onion rings as both were cooked to golden perfection! For entrées Kyle and I both decided that we were absolutely in the mood for an excellent burger. Kyle decided on the BBQ bacon cheddar burger which is a giant half pound burger topped with bacon and cheddar cheese and slathered in rich BBQ sauce. He really seemed to enjoy it and ate every

everything we had during this meal was scrumptiously delicious and we left Pasta’s on the Green with full bellies and warm hearts!

Pasta’s on the Green is the perfect place for a simply delicious meal at a reasonable price. Keep Pasta’s on the Green in mind for your next upcoming event, party, or shower as they will be happy to cater or even host your upcoming event in their banquet rooms! Their banquet facility can host up to 170 guests. For more information or to make your reservation give them a call at 315-638-1362. Serve your guests a delicious meal that they won’t soon forget! Check out Pasta’s on the Green on their website at pastaspizzeriapub.com, or better yet, stop in today!

single bite on his plate. I went with the hot pepper burger which is a half pound burger topped with hot pepper rings, jalapeños, and cherry peppers and I had this topped with blue cheese. I loved this mix of spicy and creamy with the blue cheese and peppers and I would recommend this burger to anyone who can’t get enough spiciness in their food! Every bite of

“If you like live music there’s no better place than Pasta’s on the Green for live music just about every weekend.”

Now Playing

The Menu

For the better part of two decades, celebrity chefs like Gordon Ramsay have created empires based on their beautiful food and larger-than-life personalities. There’s something inherently hilarious and thrilling in seeing a grown man that is responsible for creating dishes so exquisite that they are considered works of art reducing another adult to tears under the guise of mass entertainment.

The idea of a divinely talented, slightly unhinged genius gets the cinematic treatment in the blissfully bizarre film THE MENU. Starring Ralph Fiennes as the king of the culinary world, the horrorbased satire takes some of the same wealth-skewering aspects of THE GLASS ONION, and takes them to shockingly grotesque (and hilarious) levels.

Much like the most recent KNIVES OUT venture, a group of wealthy and entitled guests board a boat and make their way to an exclusive engagement. They are to dine in the restaurant of the world-famous chef, Julian Slowick (Fiennes) who creates one-ofa-kind menus at each dinner that is served.

Self-professed foodie Tyler Ledford (Nicholas Hoult) is giddy at the mere thought

of spending time with Slowick and his creations, while his partner Margot (Anya Taylor-Joy) could honestly seem to care less. Meanwhile food critic Lillian Bloom (Janet McTeer) is intrigued by the chance to once again share the room with Slowick, whom she put on the map with one of his first glowing reviews. Other guests include fading movie-star (John Leguizamo), a group of businessmen (Rob Yang, Mark St. Cyr, Arturo Castro), and aging couple Richard (Reed Birney) and Anne (Judith Light).

As the courses begin, THE MENU plays out as a sumptuous drama that is interspersed with a few humorous lines and some mouth-watering food. As is often the case with the food shows that are

now common place on virtually every network and streaming service on television, we are given close-ups and explanations of what each course entails. At the restaurant itself, Slowick introduces and explains each dish and the inspiration behind it. While these begin innocuously enough, there are some slight hints in the sprawling monologues delivered by the Chef that something might be amiss. By the time the third course rolls around, a shocking display of violence shatters the precarious tranquility of the meal, and THE MENU truly takes a turn.

“The ensemble cast is fantastic, led by Fiennes and Taylor-Joy.”

I love a good film that toys with conventions and manipulates expectations. That is where THE MENU shines. Director Mark Mylod and screenwriters Will Tracy and Seth Reiss put the audience at ease by providing them with the casual comfort that has made food programs the guilty and universal pleasure of millions of viewers around the globe. They also sprinkle in a fair amount of Gordon Ramsay (even interjecting a “you donkey” insult for good measure) as he is arguably the face of this particular fire brand of chefs. The slow-burn way in which the evening begins dissolve before jarring us so completely is done so magnificently that I instantly wondered where things would possibly go from there. In a medium of predictability, this was anything but.

The ensemble cast is fantastic, led by Fiennes and Taylor-Joy. Though they will reap the muchdeserved accolades, Hoult and Leguizamo are equally impressive, as is the unsettling maître d’ Elsa, played to perfection by Hong Chau. Despite the carnage unfolding, she consistently finds a way to steal every scene, coming across as both hilarious and terrifying in equal measures. Each performer successfully embodies their increasingly deplorable characters, and as the film progresses and truths are exposed, we begin to learn why each one of them (well, okay, maybe most of them) found their way to this particular tasting.

Fusing sumptuous visuals with memorable performances, an elegant soundtrack, and a sharp script, THE MENU seems right at home in the thick of the award season buzz, and has stayed with me long after the courses were completed.

THE MENU-B+

Now playing in theaters and streaming on HBO Max.

Support Your Local Business!

“Each performer successfully embodies their increasingly deplorable characters, and as the film progresses and truths are exposed, we begin to learn why each one of them (well, okay, maybe most of them) found their way to this particular tasting.”

exercise & Fitness

How to Motivate Yourself to Workout this Winter

As the winter weather is setting in, it is getting harder and harder to get out of bed! This makes it twice as hard to muster up the motivation to head to the gym. Just know that you are not the only one that may feel this way!

No matter how hard it may be, exercising is essential to maintain a healthy routine! The winter months are actually the perfect time to start working towards your fitness goals, even though the dark mornings and cold weather may say otherwise.

It is possible to keep up your momentum all year round. You just need to have a plan; you need to stay focused and most importantly you have to keep moving! Here are a few tips to help you stay motivated to workout throughout the winter season.

Set Realistic Goals

Setting health and fitness goals can be motivating, but only if they are goals you can actually achieve. Running a marathon is a worthy aim, but so is being able to walk up seven flights of stairs. If you are unsure where to start or what equipment to use, doing a few sessions with a fitness professional can be a helpful tool. Personal trainers possess the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to design safe and effective fitness programs. He or she will design a personalized program for you that will help you reach your fitness goals efficiently and effectively.

Take It Outside

Winter may not be your favorite season, but instead of resisting the cold, try embracing it. With the right clothing, spending time outdoors can be really enjoyable during the wintertime. Downhill and cross-country skiing, as well as snowshoeing and ice skating are great activities to keep you active throughout the winter months.

Buddy Up

Just as with joining a club, agreeing to exercise with a friend gives you an incentive to do something active. Having a companion can help you stay motivated in many ways. One, working out may be more fun if you are looking forward

to seeing a friend whose company you enjoy. Furthermore, you will be less likely to skip out on your workouts when you know you made a commitment to meet up with a workout partner. Who knows, it may even help change your perspective of working out to something a little more enjoyable and sociable.

Invest In Indoor Exercise Equipment

The only thing better than a great workout is a great workout you can do from the comfort of your own home. Whether you’ve got a packed schedule, don’t have the budget for a gym membership, or prefer privacy, there are myriad ways to enjoy an at-home sweat session. Investing in some indoor exercise equipment may be the perfect solution for you. Exercise equipment like hand weights,

kettlebells and resistance bands are inexpensive and let you design your own at-home workouts. Standard equipment like treadmills, elliptical machines, and recumbent bikes are good investments because they tend to last for years. Look online for workout videos and programs that are designed to help you get the most out of your home workouts. There is no shortage of engaging workouts that you can

“At the end of the day, fitness is so much more than getting that perfect six-pack and a rock-hard butt. It’s about the quality of your life.”

Join a Gym

A gym membership can help you stay motivated to exercise consistently. Even if you’re not a regular, joining a gym for the winter months is a great excuse to get yourself out of the house. You’ll have the opportunity to meet like-minded people with similar fitness goals and you will be surrounded by gym patrons who will help you stay inspired.

Find an Activity You Enjoy

Many people claim to hate exercise, but what they truly mean may be that they despise cardio or jogging. Running doesn’t need a lot of additional equipment or skill development, but that doesn’t mean it has to be everyone’s go-to method of exercise. Simply said, those who detest working out haven’t discovered the form of exercise that suits them best. Check out a few clubs and see what classes they have to offer. Consider what you would enjoy most and give it a try.

Remind Yourself Why It’s Important

Don’t forget to remind yourself why it is you started in the first place! Revisit your fitness goals or take the time to create new ones. Do you want to lose those last five pounds, build muscle, run your first 5k, or just tone up? Whatever your ultimate goal is, committing to what you want to achieve will allow you to track your progress and set smaller goals along the way.

Make Time

Don’t use your busy lifestyle as an excuse to set exercise aside. You matter and so does your health. This is why you need to make it a priority! Stay physically active throughout the day by parking farther away from your destination, meeting a friend at the gym, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or going for a walk with a coworker on your lunch break. Remember, doing something is better than doing nothing at all.

Watch Your Mouth

If you’re having a hard time finding the motivation to head to the gym, at least do your best to avoid foods that have little to no nutritional value. This will help prevent additional weight gain and encourage you to make healthier food choices. Do your best to eat meals around the same time every day. Scheduling mealtimes throughout the day will make it easier for you to stay on track while at work, school and in the break room. Remember you can’t out run a bad diet!

In Conclusion:

At the end of the day, fitness is so much more than getting that perfect six-pack and a rock-hard butt. It’s about the quality of your life. If you want to be successful for the longterm, you have to transform more than your body; you have to change your mindset.

Develop a healthy lifestyle that is realistic, achievable and sustainable. Before you know it, you will be on your way to achieving a fit and healthy lifestyle that you can maintain in the winter and for years to come. Good luck to you.

I have been a personal trainer for over eighteen years and I absolutely love what I do. I honestly feel that I have one of the best jobs out there! The most rewarding part of my profession is helping one of my clients succeed at reaching their personal fitness goals. Making a difference in someone’s life makes it all worthwhile. I am currently certified by the National Sports Conditioning Association, Apex Fitness Group, and the International Sports Science Association.

the Write Stuff

What I’m Reading

How many books can you read at one time?

Since I was a child, I have had a habit, be it good or bad, of reading several books at once. My excuse for this is that I want to read multiple genres, and while I can sit and read (or read while on the stepper) fiction for hours, some other genres take a little more dedication and brain power.

And then there are the books that I’ve inherited, had recommended, or been asked to review.

So, with those excuses, I’ll share with you what I’m reading right now.

ONON DAGA NATION ARENA

FOOD & DRINK AVAILABLE AT POWER PLAY CAFE

MONDAY • WEDNESDAY • FRIDAY

9am-12pm, PUBLIC SKATE • 12:30pm-5pm, STICK & PUCK

TUESDAY • THURSDAY

9am-12pm, STICK & PUCK • 12:30pm-5pm, PUBLIC SKATE

SATURDAY

PARTY ON THE ICE OPEN SKATE 7-10pm

STICK & PUCK $5 ADMISSION, HELMET REQUIRED (under 18, facemask required), HOCKEY STICK

PUBLIC SKATE $5 ADMISSION, SKATE RENTAL $3 (hockey & figure)

First, my just for the joy of it fiction: I just finished “The Darwin Variant,” by Kenneth Johnson. The premise is that a comet is going to hit earth, and a group of governments decide the only solution is to hit it with nukes and break it apart. They’re last-minute-successful, and the only damage is a smallish arc of fragments that hits in Georgia, USA. But that’s just the beginning of a story told from about 20 points of view, varying from a dull Georgia backwoods boy to a genius researcher to

an autistic savant and a sweet teen girl.

Once that was finished, I delved into a Ken Follet – “The Evening and the Morning.”

On my bookshelf I had found a non-fiction, a scientific exploration written way back in 1982. I’m always intrigued by science from the point of view of a decade or more ago – wondering how what they speculated panned out over time. The book is “The Turning Point: Science, Society and The Rising Culture,” by Fritjof Capra. The author also wrote “The Tao of Physics,” which will give you some insight into his turn of mind. But he essentially rejects Cartesian science, or the mechanistic view of what is (and is not). He writes, “...in contrast to the mechanistic Cartesian view of the world, the world view emerging from modern physics can be characterised by words like organic, wholistic and ecological. It might also be called a systems view...” The act of observation, he writes, is part of what is observed. The two are not separable. Needless to say, I can only read a chapter or so and then have to think – and there are many underlines, notes, and exclamation points in the margins.

For a little light reading – and the authors do, indeed, have fun with their subject(s) – I pulled a 1987 compendium called “An Incomplete Education” from the shelf, written by Judy Jones and William Wilson. They go through all the major areas of a liberal education, and tell you what you should know about each. American Studies, Art History, Literature, Film, Music, Philosophy, Psychology and more. Each is treated somewhat irreverently, but given the nearly 40 year passage of time since the book

“My excuse for this is that I want to read multiple genres, and while I can sit and read (or read while on the stepper) fiction for hours, some other genres take a little more dedication and brain power.”

was written, it’s amusing to read what was considered important as it relates to what is part of a liberal arts education today.

Then for a little history, I’m reading a chapter or so a day of a wonderful examination of “How The Barbarian Invasions Shaped The Modern World,” by Thomas J. Craughwell.

He looks into the Vikings, Vandals, Huns, Mongols, Goths and Tartars (sounds like a bunch of band names...) and how their tearing apart (and to an extent carrying away with them) the classical world shaped a new, warring, restless and inventive world that carried us to the world we know now.

Because I want to laugh, I indulge in a short chapter from Rod Green’s “The Wicked Wit of Scotland,” and to enjoy a bit of political/ propaganda, I’m reading “Hollywood Propaganda,” by Mark Dice. Whether

you agree with his take on the various movies and popular books and press, it’s hard to dispute his assertion that these art forms do, in fact, influence us both directly, and indirectly – from the way we speak, to our fashion sense, to our sympathies and antipathies.

Finally, I found a treasure among my mom’s old, leather and cloth-bound books. This particular book is a novel, simple and sweet with titled chapters. “Hempfield” by David Grayson was published in 1915, and is a small book with large typeface, and when I was just a few pages in, I looked at an inscription I’d overlooked when I first opened the book. And it was the reason I treasure old books.

A little Santa sticker was attached to one page, and on the title page was an inscription:

“Finally, I found a treasure among my mom’s old, leather and cloth-bound books.”

12/25/15 (as in 1915)

To Auntie From Jim

And Jim, I believe, would have been my grand-dad.

Word on the Street

THE PlAN

far – IGNORED”

TO: THE MAYOR, THE COMMON COUNCIL AND CITY DEPARTMENT LEADERS

PREFACE: “The Plan” (Please go to “word on the street tablehopping.com.) Scroll to July, August and September of 2022. You will find Part I, Part II and Part III outlining a heretofore never tried methodology to apply to neighborhoods, a small section at a time, and remove the evil and human suffering that is permeating our city.

THIS IS WRITTEN WITH HIGH REGARD AND RESPECT. IT IS WRITTEN TO SHOW YOU “WHY AND HOW” TO CIRCUMVENT BARRIERS. “THIS IS NOT JUST ABOUT POOR PEOPLE. IT IS ABOUT VERY HEAVY DRUGS AND THE DAMAGE THEY DO TO HUMAN BRAINS AND THE GRAVE SUFFERING OF THAT REALITY. IT IS ABOUT A PATH TO FIX THIS.”

IT IS NOT ME THAT IS BEING IGNORED. IT IS THE 16-YEAR-OLD GIRL, STRUNG OUT ON A FILTHY FLOOR, PANTS DOWN, VISITED BY HEARTLESS MEN AND THE THINKING AND PAIN SHE MUST ENDURE. ALONE. HELPLESS AND ADDICTED. IT IS ABOUT SUCH THINGS BEING PERPETUAL IN THIS WORLD OF HORROR UNDERNEATH THE VENEER OF WHAT YOU SEE. I COULD GIVE YOU PLIGHT AFTER PLIGHT. THAT IS JUST ONE OF MANY THAT I CAME UPON. THE VAST MAJORITY OF OUR CITY IS VICTIMIZED.

I am going to lead with a disgusting truth that has permeated our monied political scene and has degraded our once glowing Beacon, as the guiding light for mankind. This Beacon shown proud and brightly in the Post WWII years of my childhood. And is barely flickering today.

This all circles back to “The Plan” and why it is ignored. The next two paragraphs are perhaps the most disgusting paragraphs I have ever written:

Lyndon Johnson launched the “War on Poverty” fifty-nine years ago in his State of the Union address – A quarter century passed and Ronald Reagan made his famous quip that “some years ago, the federal government

declared war on poverty, and poverty won.” In the Public Papers of the Presidents, that line is followed by what might serve as the war’s one-word epitaph: “Laughter.” This was a rape of our once gleaming beacon. We did not lose the war on poverty. It is our twoparty system and the lies they tell, with extreme opposing beliefs that alter policies as elections dictate. We simply gave up.

L.B.J. called for co-operation among federal, state, and local officials. What’s clear is that we are approaching six decades since Johnson pledged “not only to relieve the symptoms of poverty, but to cure it and, above all, to prevent it.” Today poverty is the lesser evil by far in Syracuse neighborhoods. “It is human brains being dissolved and robbed of the minds normal chemicals to help themselves.” Politicians thus far show a bipartisan resolve to “avoid” the subject. The reasons for this are fairly straightforward. It’s a truism of American politics that helping the poor is an idea that polls poorly. And with money controlling politics heroes are far and few between. And that is at the heart of why the plan is ignored. Therein lies the disgrace of America and the disgrace of you allowing this horror to go on each and every day in our tortured neighborhoods. My God, Why? Ladies and Gentlemen, Why? Please take the time. Read and absorb the words. Read the plan.

Please, allow me to show how to circumvent the barriers of unpopularity. This is covered in more detail in the plan, Parts II and III. Our system of money is not smart. People are inherently good and will agree to a sensible compassionate workable course. What you need is the easily available wisdom to present your case in a way that will reverse attitudes and easily cause positive polling. The plan is laid out so that fixing the first village is easily affordable and proves workability. Once that is done the plan shows you how money will flow. i.e., State and Federal Grant access and eligibility will soar, private donors will become excited and the base for this is national and massive. (See the plan) The ease of fundraising via all conduits will ease massively once a village success is achieved. Corporate interest will swell massively. The city will need a fundraising team. Neighborhoods will become attractive to small business and the city will become attractive to companies. An easy 90% of our city’s human suffering will end. Yes, that

“so

“Our neighborhoods are not full of just poor anymore, but human beings drenched in a brain destroying drug world with enormous agony. How can you ignore me?”

much. Because no one has been holding the reins where evil lies. Evil has little fear of law in our neighborhoods. The suffering runs rampant and we can skim most evil quickly. (Read the Plan) Be attentive and absorbing. You will get it.

This City can become the beacon for others to follow. Our example could well become the blueprint and may well be adopted by others. Great things begin with one person. Mayor, this is your time. Syracuse could become the symbol that honors the wish of all that is good, be it your God or the one great

quality that gives deservedness to humanity: “Care for others.” I would be happy to suggest a draft of the speech that you give to propel this forward. It is the speech that will overcome most of the naysayers. It must be done well and appeal to the people. Just let me know.

“The Plan” (Please go to “word on the street tablehopping.com.) Scroll to July, August and September of 2022. You will find Part I, Part II and Part III outlining a heretofore never tried methodology to apply to neighborhoods, a small section at a time, and remove the evil and human suffering that is permeating our city. I served in the United States Army Special Forces. (Green Berets) I did a three-year tour of duty. I did not go to Viet Nam. It is the guys that stay in that turn into the legends you have heard about. The finest of them were my friends such as Captain Roger Donlon, Staff Sergeant Vernon Beeson and Sergeant Barry Sadler. (They make an intriguing google and show what formed my early days) However, I did undergo the required training to become qualified. That is all I had time for. I explain this so you see I look for no gratuitous accolade, (too old for that nonsense) yet I seek recognition for being exposed to unique concepts that would fix Syracuse if leadership decided to seek the honor and the bravery I once served with. That is not said with condescension. It is said to make you see what disfigured systemic evolution (seeking approval of the monied and the powerful thus drawing too many overzealous seekers of personal status) has done to the quality of your pursuits. There has been no collective effort to end the grave human suffering that has evolved in our city. How does this not offend you into workable action. The decimated are saturated into the vast majority of the population. The City has degraded annually for generations. The invasion of heavy drugs has caused a suffering you are not seeing. Not fancy words, just pure truth. Our neighborhoods are not full of just poor anymore, but human beings drenched in a brain destroying drug world with enormous agony. How can you ignore me?

In the words of Mahatma Gandhi: “The true measure of any society can be found in how it treats its most vulnerable members.” In this great wisdom it is you Mayor, and Council Members and Department Leaders. (Refer to the Plan) It is you that are the team that can begin greatness in our town. Not doing things for those that currently provide no return flow easily in politics. The value and massive diverse contribution of restored neighborhoods is not correctly perceived. (See the Plan – It is all there) Above all the degree of human salvation is not seen clearly at all. This is truly your time. I have laid it all out for you. With the purest of motive. I want only for these people to be ok. I am 77. I have just enough time to freely give you the value of my years. I believe my judgement comes through. It is now to you.

In the Army we were trained in how to influence villages. This was done “One Village at a Time” (similarly outlined in the plan) and morphed into an enormous effective and highly successful collective combat and guerilla movement. In each village the leaders, the

demographics, the problems and deficiencies, especially human, within a village would be identified. The first step was to identify and excise the enemy element. “In the plan, Drug Dealers” The Plan is a strict, unique compendium embracing the wisdom, ideas and expertise to end this scourge in our City and to save and give hope to “thousands” of tortured and suffering victims. And if you read it comprehensively you will see it is something that will work. Spare an hour. Each Part is about a 20-minute read. Absorb your read. Be attentive.

When you drive down the street things are not as they appear. That is simply deceiving veneer. I have been underneath, inside the doors. I have talked to girls on the street. I have been to drug dens, I met and spoke with many dealers, junkies, prostitutes and the abused and used. I cannot emphasize enough, the degree of grave suffering, where mercy is a stranger. Where our citizens, our responsibility, are alone in their thoughts of despair with no hope in sight. When you show care, they want help and they want to help. Be decent and information flows. Read the Plan. This can be done. For that 16 year old and all like her. Make the invisible visible. For the quality of our city. Mayor, Common Council and City Department Leaders: We are bigger than just the well off. Please, use your power and “Save Our City.”

COMMERCIAL BAKERY & RESTAURANT FOR SALE:

Well established active operation, excellent income with room to grow. Owner looking to retire. Facility, including all equipment, full staff and delivery persons. Contact David LeBlanc, Arquette Realtors, 315-559-4104

BARS FOR SALE:

Mickey’s Goodtime Saloon, 103 Galster Ave., Syracuse AND Gilligan’s Goodtime Pub, 3501 James St., Syracuse Call Mickey 315-345-1002

A PAYROLL AND HR SOLUTION. Built for your business. Simple, customizable, top rated customer service. 3 year cost guarantee. POS and credit card processing available. Brett 315-727-2888 | Brett.kuppermann@e-hps.com

LINE COOK:

Pasta’s On The Green. Call 315-638-1362 and ask for Chris.

LINE COOK & COUNTER PERSON: Luigi’s Restaurant. Call 315-492-9997 or inquire within.

COOKS:

Euclid Family Restaurant. Will train. Apply within.

DELIVERY DRIVER:

Part-Time or Full-Time. Email Resume to: art@table-hopping.com

OUTSIDE ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE:

Part-Time or Full-Time. Looking for reliable, motivated, enthusiastic individual to join the Table Hopping Sales Team. College Degree and Outside sales experience a plus! Includes Base + Commission + Bonuses. First Year Earning Potential $50K. Email Resume to: art@table-hopping.com

CUSTOMER SERVICE/ MARKETING:

Part-Time or Full-Time. Part time, flexible hours. Email Resume to: art@table-hopping.com

Reach over 170,000 people with your classified ad. ONLY $25 for 5 lines! CALL TABLE HOPPING TODAY AT 474-1011

“I cannot emphasize enough, the degree of grave suffering, where mercy is a stranger.”

Mu SIC

February 1

Badfish - Sublime Tribute • 7pm

The Westcott Theatre, Syracuse

February 1

Flogging Molly • 7:30pm

Landmark Theatre, Syracuse

February 2

Ben Wayne • 5-8pm

Lakeview Lanes, Fulton

February 2

Shawn Halloran • 7pm

Kitty Hoynes, Syracuse

February 2

Mark Nanni • 7-11pm

Shifty’s Bar & Grill, Syracuse

February 2

Stephen Mullane • 6-9pm

Bullfinch Brewpub, Syracuse

February 3

Cameron King

Pasta’s on the Green, Baldwinsville

February 3

Mike MacDonald • 6:30-9:30pm

Western Ranch Motor Lodge, Syracuse

February 3

The Dirty Doves • 7-10pm

The Irish Inn, Oswego

February 3

Flashback-Brian Rusaw • 7-10pm

Lakeview Lanes, Fulton

February 3

Paul Davie • 3pm

Winter Fair, NYS Fairgrounds, Syracuse

February 3

The Folkus Project • 8pm

May Memorial Unitarian

Universalist Society, Syracuse

February 3

NYS Baroque presents -

Characters of Paris • 7:30-9pm

First Unitarian Universalist, Syracuse

February 3

Count Blastula • 8pm-12am

Shifty’s Bar & Grill, Syracuse

February 3

Butternut Creek Revival • 8pm

Kitty Hoynes, Syracuse

February 3

The Shylocks • 8-11pm

Village Tavern, Marcellus

February 3

Faded Vinyl • 6-9pm

Sharkey’s Bar & Grill, Liverpool

February 3

Billy Shew Blues • 8pm

JP’s Tavern, Baldwinsville

February 3

The Noisy Boys • 6:30-9pm

Middle Ages Brewing, Syracuse

February 4

The Dirty Doves • 7-10pm

Brian’s Landing, Jamesville

February 4

Symphoria Pops III: Nat King Cole

Songbook • 7:30-9:30pm

Crouse Hinds Theatre, Syracuse

February 4

The Road Less Traveled • 6-9pm

Lakeview Lanes, Fulton

February 4

Mark Doyle & The Maniacs • 7-9:30pm

443 Social Club & Lounge, Syracuse

February 4

The Fabulous Ripcords • 8pm-12am

Shifty’s Bar & Grill, Syracuse

February 4

The Dropouts • 8pm

Kitty Hoynes, Syracuse

February 4

Bill Ali • 2pm

Beak & Skiff Distillery, LaFayette

February 4

Infinity • 6-9pm

Sharkey’s Bar & Grill, Liverpool

February 4

Highway 18 • 8pm

JP’s Tavern, Baldwinsville

February 4

J. Schnitt • 6:30-9pm

Middle Ages Brewing, Syracuse

February 4

Gina DeSimone & The Moaners • 7pm

The Limerick Pub, Syracuse

February 5

Ryan Burdick • 7-10pm

Shifty’s Bar & Grill, Syracuse

February 5

Jazz On Tap • 2-5pm

Finger Lakes on Tap, Skaneateles

February 8

Open Mic with Joel Kane • 8pm-12am

Shifty’s Bar & Grill, Syracuse

February 8

Jazz At Timber Banks • 6-9pm

Timber Banks, Baldwinsville

February 9

Bryan Syrell • 5-8pm

Lakeview Lanes, Fulton

February 9

Joel Kane’s Uptown • 7-11pm

Shifty’s Bar & Grill, Syracuse

February 9

Shawn Halloran • 8pm

Village Tavern, Marcellus

February 9

Tommy Connors • 7pm

Kitty Hoynes, Syracuse

February 10

Freeway • 6:30-9:30pm

Western Ranch Motor Lodge, Syracuse

February 10

Keep Up Duo

Pasta’s on the Green, Baldwinsville

February 10

The Dirty Doves • 7-10pm

Original Italian Pizza, Owego

February 10

Damn Dog Duo • 7-10pm

Lakeview Lanes, Fulton

February 10

One of These Nights

The OnCenter Carrier Theatre, Syracuse

February 10

Alter Bridge • 8pm

Del Lago Resort & Casino, Waterloo

February 10

Two Hour Delay • 8pm-12am

Shifty’s Bar & Grill, Syracuse

February 10

Neil Emberg • 8pm

Kitty Hoynes, Syracuse

February 10

Lou Sacco • 8-11pm

Village Tavern, Marcellus

February 10

Cory Wilds Band • 8pm

JP’s Tavern, Baldwinsville

February 10

Tim Herron • 6:30-9pm

Middle Ages Brewing, Syracuse

February 11

Mike Place

Pasta’s on the Green, Baldwinsville

February 11

Caleb Liber • 6-9pm

Lakeview Lanes, Fulton

February 11

Bush • 8pm

Del Lago Resort & Casino, Waterloo

February 11

Michael Crissan • 2pm

Beak & Skiff Distillery, LaFayette

February 11

Ronnie Leigh - A Valentine’s

Affair to Remember • 7-9:30pm

443 Social Club & Lounge, Syracuse

February 11

Neil Emberg • 8pm

Kitty Hoynes, Syracuse

February 11

Steve Cali & Chad Mac • 8-11pm

Village Tavern, Marcellus

February 11

Iron Stallion • 8pm

JP’s Tavern, Baldwinsville

February 11

Chris Eves • 6:30-9pm

Middle Ages Brewing, Syracuse

February 11

The Bag o’Vaughans • 7pm

The Limerick Pub, Syracuse

February 12

Mark Zane • 2-4pm

Cecile Commuinity Center, Syracuse

February 12

Just Joe • 7pm

Shifty’s Bar & Grill, Syracuse

February 12

Jazz On Tap • 2-5pm

Finger Lakes on Tap, Skaneateles

February 15

Jamie Cunningham • 8-11pm

The Cobblestone, Liverpool

February 15

Open Mic with Joel Kane • 8pm-12am

Shifty’s Bar & Grill, Syracuse

February 15

Jazz At Timber Banks • 6-9pm

Timber Banks, Baldwinsville

February 16

Tiger • 5-8pm

Lakeview Lanes, Fulton

February 16

Our Lady Peace • 8pm

Del Lago Resort & Casino, Waterloo

February 16

Zoso • 7pm

The Westcott Theatre, Syracuse

February 16

Mark Macri • 7-11pm

Shifty’s Bar & Grill, Syracuse

February 16

Tommy Connors • 7pm

Kitty Hoynes, Syracuse

February 16

Patrick Young • 8-11pm

Village Tavern, Marcellus

February 17

Pinky • 6:30-9:30pm

Western Ranch Motor Lodge, Syracuse

February 17

Patrick Young

Pasta’s on the Green, Baldwinsville

February 17

Dokken • 8pm

Del Lago Resort & Casino, Waterloo

February 17

Matt Nakoa • 7-9:30pm

443 Social Club & Lounge, Syracuse

February 17

Monkey Fever • 8pm-12am

Shifty’s Bar & Grill, Syracuse

February 17

Old Friends Duo • 8pm

Kitty Hoynes, Syracuse

February 17

Dixie North • 7-10pm

Lakeview Lanes, Fulton

February 17

Jon Rogalia & The Swamp Boys • 8-11pm Village Tavern, Marcellus

February 17

JT All Star Jam • 8pm

JP’s Tavern, Baldwinsville

February 17

Chris LeFever • 6:30-9pm

Middle Ages Brewing, Syracuse

February 18

Brian Wagner • 2pm

Beak & Skiff Distillery, LaFayette

February 18

Mike Powell • 7-9:30pm

443 Social Club & Lounge, Syracuse

February 18

Impractical Jokers • 8pm

Del Lago Resort & Casino, Waterloo

February 18

Phil Petroff & Natural Fact • 8pm-12am

Shifty’s Bar & Grill, Syracuse

February 18

Chris Lefever with Dave Rice • 8pm

Kitty Hoynes, Syracuse

February 18

Bottoms Up • 8pm

JP’s Tavern, Baldwinsville

February 18

Corey Paige • 6:30-9pm

Middle Ages Brewing, Syracuse

February 18

Mountain Tay • 7pm

The Limerick Pub, Syracuse

February 19

The Dirty Doves • 11:30am-2:30pm

Brian’s Landing, Jamesville

February 19

Shawn Halloran • 2pm

Beak & Skiff Distillery, LaFayette

February 19

Jeff McConnell • 7-10pm

Shifty’s Bar & Grill, Syracuse

February 19

Jazz On Tap • 2-5pm

Finger Lakes on Tap, Skaneateles

February 19

Night & Day Jazz • 5:30pm

The Limerick Pub, Syracuse

February 22

Mark Zane • 6-8pm

Epicuse, Syracuse

February 22

Open Mic with Joel Kane • 8pm-12am

Shifty’s Bar & Grill, Syracuse

February 22

Jazz At Timber Banks • 6-9pm

Timber Banks, Baldwinsville

February 23

The Quatro • 7pm

Maplewood Grand Ballroom, Liverpool

February 23

Bill Ali • 5-8pm

Lakeview Lanes, Fulton

February 23

Jess & Chong • 7-11pm

Shifty’s Bar & Grill, Syracuse

February 23

Brian Francis • 7pm

Kitty Hoynes, Syracuse

February 23

Soulfly • 6pm

The Lost Horizon, Syracuse

February 23

That 1 Guy • 8pm

The Westcott Theatre, Syracuse

February 24

Kick Up Dust

Pasta’s on the Green, Baldwinsville

February 24

Shake The Block with DJ Funk Flex• 7-11pm

Sharkey’s Event Center, Liverpool

February 24

Stroke • 8pm-12am

Shifty’s Bar & Grill, Syracuse

February 24

Domicolo and Barlow • 7-10pm

Lakeview Lanes, Fulton

February 24

Gin Blossoms • 8pm

Del Lago Resort & Casino, Waterloo

February 24

Mcardle and Westers • 8pm

Kitty Hoynes, Syracuse

February 24

Cait Devin • 6-8pm

Bullfinch Brewpub, Syracuse

February 24

The Kennydales • 8pm

JP’s Tavern, Baldwinsville

February 24

Colin Aberdeen • 6:30-9pm

Middle Ages Brewing, Syracuse

February 25

Mobius Jones • 7-10pm

Western Ranch Motor Lodge, Syracuse

February 25

The Dirty Doves • 8-11pm

McCarthy’s Irish Pub, Cazenovia

February 25

DJ Jordan • 6-9pm

Lakeview Lanes, Fulton

February 25

Soul Risin’ • 8pm-12am

Shifty’s Bar & Grill, Syracuse

February 25

Shawn Halloran • 7:30pm

Bullfinch Brewpub, Syracuse

February 25

Brian Nay Trio • 8pm

JP’s Tavern, Baldwinsville

February 25

Mike Fearson & Pat O’Neill • 7pm

The Limerick Pub, Syracuse

February 25

Mcardle & Westers • 6:30-9pm

Middle Ages Brewing, Syracuse

February 26

Jess Chick • 7-10pm

Shifty’s Bar & Grill, Syracuse

February 26

Tom Connors • 2pm

Beak & Skiff Distillery, LaFayette

February 26

Jazz On Tap • 2-5pm

Finger Lakes on Tap, Skaneateles

February 26

Badflower: Asking For A Friend • 7:30pm

The Westcott Theatre, Syracuse

March 1

Jazz At Timber Banks • 6-9pm Timber Banks, Baldwinsville

March 4

The Dirty Doves • 7-10pm

Brian’s Landing, Jamesville

March 4

Aqueous With Litz • 8pm

The Westcott Theatre, Syracuse

March 6

The Dirty Doves • 6-9pm

Meier’s Creek Brewing Co., Syracuse

Art

February 18

Portrait Photography

Everson Museum of Art, Syracuse thru March 31

The Degenerate Art Show of Germany, 1937

The Station – Artist Collective and Gallery, Syracuse thru April 9

Common Ground

Everson Museum of Art, Syracuse thru May 14

50th Anniversary: Selections from Light Work Collection

Everson Museum of Art, Syracuse thru May 15

Stephanie H. Shih: My Sweetie Has No Pockmarks

Syracuse University Art Museum, Syracuse thru May 21

Hoop Dreams: Basketball and Contemporary Art

Everson Museum of Art, Syracuse

Ev EN t S

February 3

Harry’s House of Styles, Dance Party • 9pm

The Westcott Theatre, Syracuse

February 3-5

Winter Fair

NYS Fairgrounds, Syracuse

February 4

Magic Rocks!

Turning Stone Resort & Casino, Verona

February 4

Pon De Riri • 9pm

The Westcott Theatre, Syracuse

February 10

Owl Night Long • 5-7pm

Beaver Lake Nature Center, Baldwinsville

February 11

1 Night of Love, Valentine’s Party • 9pm

The Westcott Theatre, Syracuse

February 18

The RNB Party • 9pm

The Westcott Theatre, Syracuse

February 19

Winterfest at the Syracuse Inner Harbor • 11am-4pm

Iron Pier Apartments, Syracuse

February 24

Borgore • 8pm

The Westcott Theatre, Syracuse

February 25

Taylor Rave • 8pm

The Westcott Theatre, Syracuse

February 26

Syracuse City Ballet Presents

Prokofiev’s “Cinderella”

The OnCenter

Crouse Hinds Theatre, Syracuse

t h EAtr E

February 14-19

Come From Away

Landmark Theatre, Syracuse

February 15-March 5

Espejos: Clean

Syracuse Stage Complex, Syracuse

February 24-March 5

By The Way, Meet Vera Stark

The Red House, Syracuse

February 25-26

PAW Patrol Live! “Heroes Unite”

Landmark Theatre, Syracuse

Dea D line is february 22n D for the march issue

Sport S

February 2

Harlem Globetrotters • 7pm

The OnCenter War Memorial, Syracuse

February 3

Syracuse Crunch vs. Charolotte Checkers • 7pm

The OnCenter War Memorial, Syracuse

February 4

Syracuse Crunch vs. Charolotte Checkers • 7pm

The OnCenter War Memorial, Syracuse

February 11

Syracuse Crunch vs. Rochester Americans • 7pm

The OnCenter War Memorial, Syracuse

February 14

Syracuse University

Men’s Basketball vs. NC State • 7pm

Syracuse University, Syracuse

February 18

Syracuse University

Men’s Basketball vs. Duke • 6pm

Syracuse University, Syracuse

February 24

Syracuse Crunch vs. Wilkes-Barre/ Scranton Penguins • 7pm

The OnCenter War Memorial, Syracuse

February 25

Syracuse Crunch vs. Hartford Wolfpack • 7pm

The OnCenter War Memorial, Syracuse

February 28

Syracuse University

Men’s Basketball vs. Georgia Tech • 7pm

Syracuse University, Syracuse

March 1

Syracuse Crunch vs. Cleveland Monsters • 7pm

The OnCenter War Memorial, Syracuse March 3

Syracuse Crunch vs. Lehigh Velley Phantoms • 7pm

The OnCenter War Memorial, Syracuse

March 4

Syracuse University

Men’s Basketball vs. Wake Forest • 5pm

Syracuse University, Syracuse

March 4

WWE Road to WrestleMania • 7:30pm

The OnCenter War Memorial, Syracuse

Beauty & Fashion

Natural vs. Commercial Methods: The Battle for Making People Beautiful Rages On

Beauty is what catches the attention first. A lot of people spend quite a big part of the day (and their earnings) to make up, most especially in the morning before the day starts. To look good means to feel good. Acne, dry skin and scalp, oily skin and scalp, dry hair, rough hands, callused feet, proper diet and weight loss are the frequently faced problems in beauty and fitness today.

People want fast results. So they choose beauty products that could give them the result they want in just weeks or less. People rely on the commercials that promise satisfactory results in no time. Most of these products are chemically based to act on

the body, skin and hair fast. However, some people who have ultra sensitive skin and hair sometimes find it difficult to choose the right type of product to use because even hypoallergenic products are still irritating.

There are a lot of people who turn to more natural ways to enhance beauty. Most of these products are not seen on commercials. They are found right at home, mostly in the kitchen. They do not contain chemicals but they can guarantee fast and amazing results like those of commercialized beauty products.

Take for example a papaya. A lot of commercialized soaps, lotions and other beauty paraphernalia feature papaya as their secret ingredient. Papaya is one of those natural beauty enhancers that can easily be found in the kitchen or the nearest market. Papaya is a great whitening agent and just recently, experts found out that green papaya is even more effective.

Many famous people, although they endorse top-rated lines of beauty products are even quoted to use natural ingredients such as castor oil and cranberry juice for the hair, olive oil for the nails, and a potpourri of fruits and vegetables for slimming down. But the ultimate cleaning agent, for the majority is water. It cleanses not only the outside of the body but also the inside. Thorough cleaning of the body is very important especially at the end of the day. You would not want to go to bed with dust and grime clinging to your hair and skin, would you? Cleaning your body does not only mean ridding it of dirt, but it is also one way to

relax tired muscles. There are secrets to experience spa-like treatments even when you are just at home. Taking care of your body means loving it and often pampering it.

A hot bath would be one of the best ways to soothe the knots from the shoulders to the feet. But, for a more calming and relaxing bath, you could add milk and lemon juice to achieve silky smooth skin. Or, you could give your skin the vitamins it needs without taking tablets orally. Instead of swallowing the vitamin E capsules, just poke them with a pin and squeeze out the oil into the tub along with regular sea salt and drops of your favorite essential oil for an invigorating soak. Complete the setting by lighting some candles with your favorite aromatherapy oils. Once inside the tub, you might forget that you are in an expensive spa instead of just in your own bathroom.

In the busy world of today, going to the beauty parlor for a makeover is a privilege. Most women do not have the time to indulge, having to juggle career, family, kids, studies and other extra-curricular activities. It would be quite advantageous for them to be familiar with natural beauty secrets that can be done alone at home even in the late hours at night, when they can be sure that nobody would bother them in the bathroom or in the kitchen.

It would be marvelous to wake up the next day already looking gorgeous without going to the beauty parlor. Starting from the crowning glory – the hair, give it a boost, a life! A homemade shampoo of egg, hot water and an ounce of fresh rosemary would do the first trick. Rinse. Then follow up with deep conditioner of mayonnaise and avocado. Rinse. Then, finally, give your hair the energy it needed with olive oil and vitamin E liquid combined in boiling water. Cover with a hot towel and leave on for 30 minutes. After having dealt with your hair, you need to pay attention to your body by giving it a good, relaxing soak in the tub for a peaceful rest. If not, experience a thorough exfoliation by giving your body a scrub in the shower. A combination of finely ground oatmeal and almond oil can leave your skin refreshed. If your skin hates summer, worry no more. Exfoliating with a combination of sea salt and olive oil would surely make your skin be friendly with summer.

When a trace of pimple is showing on your face, prevent it by placing an ice cube wrapped in plastic wrap over the threatening pimple. A mask made of mashed ripe banana and honey will give your face a new, vibrant feel. When going somewhere, you might want to highlight your eyes and cheeks for a more stunning effect without really going through extensive alterations. You

can bring out the natural beauty of your eyes and cheeks by putting the perfect shade of foundation, eye shadow, blush and lipstick properly. The trick here is to know your skin type and skin color and to determine the colors that would compliment the shape and type of the face. And at the end of each day (or night) do not forget to remove make-up. One secret is to mix castor oil, light olive oil and canola oil. Then with a cotton ball, apply tenderly over the eyes to remove make up. To reduce unwanted shine, use lemon juice mixed with cold-water toner. Found some wrinkles? Combine vodka, fennel seeds and honey (let sit for 3 days) and apply as toner with a cotton ball. Retain the freshness in your face.

Don’t forget your feet! They have suffered so much the whole day having to carry you from one place to another. Give them a treat; a deodorizing bath with Epsom salts, white vinegar and warm water. Then exfoliate with a mixture of strawberries, olive oil, kosher salt and finely chopped almonds. For smooth and soft feet overnight, smear on a mixture of banana, honey, lemon juice and natural margarine. Wear thick socks to bed and rinse the next day. Follow with a foot deodorizing powder made from baking powder and drops of your favorite essential oil. Your feet will love you.

And after doing everything, your hands need the last attention. Make sure that you have done the last of your chores so that your hands can get the treat they deserve. A hot oil hand treatment could leave your hands feeling soft and gentle. Heat olive oil in a dish and soak fingers to soften cuticles and strengthen nails. Combine cold cream, honey and slivered almonds to make a scrub then leave on for 10 minutes. Wrap hands in hot hand towels tightly for 10 minutes. Remove the rinse and apply leftover olive oil. Wrap hand again in toweling or inexpensive cotton hand gloves. Then put plastic over gloves and seal with rubber bands and let stay for 10 minutes. You’ll feel the moisture as it creates a terrarium effect.

With these guidelines, you are ready to succumb to a peaceful sleep. You are going to face another bout with grim and dirt the next day.

Like us on Facebook

Follow us on Instagram

WIN PRIZES

Streaming Flicks

and emerges as a hidden gem that should appeal to OFFICE fans and beyond.

Ben (Novak) is a bachelor living his best life in New York City. A moderately successful writer with a phone full of girls and an unwavering sense of self-importance, he longs to create a podcast that will uncover the truth behind what it truly means to be American. His boss, Eloise (Issa Rae) is fairly reluctant, believing that he has some interesting theories, but not much in the way of a story.

When you break into the mainstream as a lead on one of the most beloved television shows of all time, it can be difficult to branch out once the final episode airs. For years, BJ Novak served as one of the head writers, producers, and stars of THE OFFICE. As the arrogant object of Michael Scott’s affections, Novak’s Ryan was a standout in a show that was full of memorable characters.

Novak’s latest venture, VENGEANCE, is a worthy attempt to break free from the shackles of THE OFFICE and prove that he has far more to offer. Serving as writer, director, and star, it is a project that plays incredibly well to his considerable strengths

Late one night, Ben receives a call from an unknown number. The voice on the other end braces Ben for terrible news, promising it will be the worst call he could ever receive. Tragically, Ben’s girlfriend Abilene (Lio Tipton) has died. This news hits in a weird way, particularly because he didn’t have a girlfriend named Abilene. In fact, he barely recognizes the name, and has to scroll through his phone to figure out who she is. The caller is Abilene’s brother Ty (Boyd Holbrook) and in his overwhelming grief, doesn’t process Ben’s attempt to convince him that there’s been some sort of a mistake. In fact, by the time the call is over, Ben has agreed to fly to Texas to attend the funeral.

After the services, which are highlighted by an amazingly awkward speech by Ben, Ty shares in confidence that he believes Abilene has been murdered. While everyone is trying to categorize her death as an overdose, he states that his sister Abby would never even touch so much as an Advil. He insists that Ben work with him to seek vengeance on the perpetrators and settle things the Texan way. While Ben is reluctant to indulge in violence, he realizes that a unique opportunity has presented itself. He calls Eloise and pitches the story as an idea for a podcast. With the promise of a murder mystery and a cast of backwoods characters, it has everything

“Serving as writer, director, and star, it is a project that plays incredibly well to his considerable strengths and emerges as a hidden gem that should appeal to OFFICE fans and beyond.”

that consumers adore. Eloise agrees and gives him a short leash in which to work.

As Ben delves into the mystery of Abilene, the quirky personalities of all those involved shine through. This is particularly true of Ty, who, as played by Holbrook, is a wonder to behold. Simple yet endearing, boisterous and tender, he is a larger-thanlife character who cares about his family above all else. This family includes an outspoken Granny (Louannd Stephens), a kind and caring mother (J. SmithCameron), two close and opinionated sisters (Isabella Amara and Dove Cameron), and a young brother named El Stupido (Eli Bickell). Ben knows within minutes of speaking with them that they are exactly the type of crew who will be eagerly devoured by the pop-culture machine. Eloise is elated with the content Ben is providing and truly believes that they have a smashhit on their hands.

Ben forges unexpected relationships as he is drawn into the quirky world he finds himself in, and the natural beauty of the landscape around him. He is especially drawn to Quentin (Ashton Kutcher) a philosophical record producer who understands that he is often viewed as a punchline, merely because of his geographical circumstances. Ben discovers that

Quentin, much like everyone else involved, may be far more complex than he had anticipated.

VENGEANCE is a movie that is hard to define, and has plenty to say. Novak as writer, director and star, had the ability to mold the tale into any way that he saw fit, and while he obviously had some lofty goals, the result is a movie that is hilariously funny and at times, surprisingly deep. Analyzing class, politics, preconceived notions, the media, the public, and ten million other things in-between, it explores the very notions that Ben hoped his original podcast would investigate. And, as is often the case in the most successful entries in the saturated market of true crime materials, his podcast works more as a character study than it does a mystery.

In the beginning, viewers may find it difficult to tackle VENGEANCE and not think of Ryan, but in the end, will discover that the talented Novak has far more to offer.

VENGEANCE- A-

Now streaming on Amazon Prime Video

VENGEANCE

rATED: R

ruN TIME: 1h 47min

GENrE: Comedy, Mystery

STArrING: B.J. Novak, Boyd Holbrook, Dove Cameron, Issa Rae, and Ashton Kutcher

DIrECTOr: B.J. Novak

WrITEr: B.J. Novak

GRADE: A-

My Mind to Yours

Trigger Warning

We all speak different languages. Punctuation on paper conveys emotion; we punctuate our spoken words with tone of voice and body language. Many of us believe we should not discuss politics or religion at the dinner table and/or that we should not tell ethnic jokes or label others using denigrating language ever. Many people don’t want to be told what not to say, and people nearby hearing discussions involving marginalizing labeling don’t always hear the context; they hear the trigger word. Trigger words can cause strong emotions to bubble up in groups. Active listening and self-regulation facilitate good

you or what you think.

So, how do any of us learn when and how to get to safety when we discover we’re in unsafe situations? How do we learn how to avoid unsafe situations to begin with? Many of us are steeped in values cultures where practicing our faith seems to require sacrificing one’s preferences and safety for others.

When I typed the preceding sentence, my fingers stopped typing.” “Sacrifice” is a trigger word for me. Early on, I felt compelled to sacrifice myself when others demanded it. Now that I’ve inadvertently triggered myself, I’ll take a breath and try to write the next few words I intended to write and, I’ll leave the word “sacrifice” in this piece maybe so I can say I mistrust the intentions of anyone who wants someone else to “sacrifice” something. Giving something with fully informed consent isn’t “sacrifice.”

Much is written about trigger warnings in college classrooms. I imagine a religion professor would find me to be a handful in terms of triggers. If I were in such a professor’s shoes, I would say, it’s not all about you; it’s about the whole community. Of course, whole communities are made of individuals, and some individuals,

particularly if they talk a lot, draw fire as being representative of specific community viewpoints.

Active listening and selfregulation help with trigger issues. We’re all triggered by some things.

We all trigger other people sometimes.

Hanging on my refrigerator, I have an old Vera House pamphlet about emotional and verbal abuse to remind me that abuse includes putting someone down privately or in public; ignoring or making fun of someone’s feelings; or causing someone to feel

was our Lucky WINNER for the Night on the Town Contest!

She chose PHOENIX SPORTS RESTAURANT

“People nearby hearing discussions involving marginalizing labeling don’t always hear the context; they hear the trigger word.”

confused or afraid when you’re around them. The third item on the list sometimes confuses me. I often hear and read that no one can make you feel anything without your permission. I both agree and disagree.

Mindful listening can help people sort through confusion and triggering language, but only if all people communicating are actively involved in the process. Vera House’s 2021 annual report is no longer online, but the paper copy I received in the mail late November discusses Vera House’s anti-racism work which involves discussions in separate caucuses: “of Color” and “White.” Vera House was in the news for its antiracism work but more recently, for a questionable hire. Regarding that hire: I am guessing that a community service non-profit might readily hire a known pastor because many people absolutely trust religious leaders. People of faith are often front and center in doing good for the community.

Faith connects to emotion.

Our emotional pumps are primed from infancy to respond to any authority with trust and fear, fight/flee/or freeze, love, and joy, and sadly, to sometimes present a false smiling self to avoid any anticipated scary responses from some known powerful person. The DSM lists many personality disorders which were created by neurons firing and wiring together in unsafe situations. There is a lot of good trauma informed research available to help people recover, which is good, because there are also entire bodies of information about controlling others through fear.

I was waiting to order coffee in Barnes and Noble Café when a book on display on the counter next to the dessert case triggered my interest. I assumed “Bluebird,” by Sharon Cameron would be a romance, but I had to check. When I was a little girl, seated in a normal living room in a familiar house, I learned a bit about “bluebirds” who weren’t birds. I saw papers titled MK Ultra mind control. I helped someone practice interviewing techniques. “Bluebird” is indeed about the Nazi’s Project Bluebird, a mind control project that preceded the United States CIA’s MK Ultra. Project Bluebird and MK Ultra were designed to install triggers in people to get them to behave in a certain way. Knowledge is power.

What’s your trigger?

PREP TIME 15 min.

TOTAL TIME

1 hrs. 30 min.

SERVINGS

6 FEBRUARY from Allrecipes

Farro With Wild Mushrooms

INGREDIENTS

1/2 oz. dried porcini mushrooms

2 tbsp. olive oil

10 brown mushroom caps , diced salt, to taste

1/2 onion, diced small

2 cloves garlic , minced

DIRECTIONS

1 cup pearled farro, rinsed

3 cups chicken stock , divided 2 tbsp. sour cream

2 tbsp. fresh parsley, chopped freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step 1 • Place porcini mushrooms in a bowl and cover with warm water; soak until mushrooms are reconstituted, 20 to 30 min. Drain and chop mushrooms.

Step 2 • Heat olive oil in a pot over med-high heat. Saute mushrooms with a pinch of salt in hot oil until slightly golden and moisture cooks off, 5 to 10 min. Add chopped porcini mushrooms, reduce heat to med, and cook and stir until hot, 2 to 4 min.

Step 3 • Stir onion into mushrooms; cook and stir until translucent and golden, 5 to 7 min. Add garlic; cook and stir until fragrant, 1 min.

Step 4 • Pour farro into mushroom mixture; stir until farro is coated in olive oil. Increase heat to high and add 1 cup chicken stock with a pinch of salt to mushroom mixture; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to med-low, cover the pot with a lid, and simmer, stirring once, until liquid is absorbed, about 10 min.

Step 5 • Increase heat to high and stir remaining chicken broth into farro mixture; bring to a boil, reduce heat to med-low, cover the pot with a lid, and simmer, stirring occasionally, until farro is starting to get tender, about 15 min. Remove the lid from the pot and continue simmering uncovered until farro reaches desired tenderness, about 15 min more.

Step 6 • Reduce heat to low; stir sour cream and parsley into farro mixture. Season with salt and black pepper. Enjoy!

“Mindful listening can help people sort through confusion and triggering language, but only if all people communicating are actively involved in the process.”