{"id":28151,"date":"2016-02-13T10:36:08","date_gmt":"2016-02-13T15:36:08","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/?p=28151"},"modified":"2016-02-13T10:36:08","modified_gmt":"2016-02-13T15:36:08","slug":"what-to-do-get-your-love-on-for-valentines","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/?p=28151","title":{"rendered":"What To Do: Get your love on for Valentine’s"},"content":{"rendered":"

From romantic skate, to chocolates and wine, many ways to share your love<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

By Denny Dyroff<\/strong>,\u00a0<\/span>Staff Writer, The Times<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

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Victorine\u2019s Valentine Day puts local history and Valentine’s Day in perspective at the Hagley Museum.<\/p><\/div>\n

It\u2019s hard to imagine anyone not being aware that this weekend is Valentine\u2019s Day Weekend but it\u2019s not hard to imagine people appreciating a few suggestions on how to celebrate the occasion with their sweethearts. There are several special events in the area that could fill the bill.<\/span><\/p>\n

On February 13 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Hagley Museum and Library (Route 141, Wilmington, Delaware, 302-658-2400, www.hagley.org<\/span><\/a>) will host its 2016 edition of \u201cVictorine\u2019s Valentine Day\u201d.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0Victorine\u2019s party will be held at Blacksmith Hill, the restored 19th-century workers\u2019 community where the lives of the du Ponts and the people who worked for their company connected.<\/span><\/p>\n

Here, a woman named Victorine du Pont Bauduy (1792-1861), the eldest daughter of the DuPont Company founder. During Victorine\u2019s Valentine Day, \u201cVictorine\u201d will tell her story, as well as other love stories from the 19th century.<\/span><\/p>\n

Victorine was the eldest daughter of E. I. du Pont, who built the mills on the Brandywine. She fell in love with Ferdinand Bauduy, the son of E. I.\u2019s business partner. E. I. opposed the marriage, believing the couple was too young to be married. Ferdinand moved to France for two years, during which time Victorine pined for him. After two years, E. I. relented, and the young couple joyfully married in 1813.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tragically, eleven weeks after their marriage, Ferdinand became ill and passed away. Victorine was heartbroken, but after a long period of grief, she found a new passion in her life. Victorine threw herself into teaching at the Brandywine Manufacturers\u2019 Sunday School. She remained the superintendent until her death in 1861.<\/span><\/p>\n

In addition to the telling of Victorine\u2019s story, the event will feature other activities such as making a Victorian Valentine. In the Brandywine Manufacturers\u2019 Sunday School, visitors can experience what school was like in the nineteenth century.<\/span><\/p>\n

A special exhibit featuring antique Valentine cards and chocolate-themed treasures from Hagley\u2019s collection will be on display. All activities, including designing a candy bar wrapper and snacking on hot chocolate are included.<\/span><\/p>\n

Visitors will be able to check out Hagley\u2019s current exhibits, explore demonstrations in the Powder Yard, tour the du Pont ancestral home, and enjoy walks along the scenic riverside.<\/span><\/p>\n

The best place to start a day at Hagley is at the visitor center. Exhibits and dioramas document the Brandywine Valley\u2019s early eras as well as the history of the DuPont Company. During the Civil War, the DuPont Company produced almost half of the gunpowder purchased for use by the Union army.<\/span><\/p>\n

Visitors who go outside can walk along the Brandywine to see how water power was used to run the mills. Stops along the walk include a line shaft, a dam, a millrace and a restored 19th-century machine shop. Guests can also learn how gunpowder was tested using a device called an eprouvette.<\/span><\/p>\n

Earlier in the day, you can start your holiday celebration with a different type of Valentine\u2019s Day experience by having a delightful breakfast in the country.<\/span><\/p>\n

An all-you-can-eat Valentine\u2019s Breakfast Buffet — complete with live musical performances — will be held on February 13 from 7-noon at Historic Joanna Furnace Historic on February 13 Joanna Furnace (Route 10, Morgantown, 610-286-0388, www.haycreek.org<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n

Visit to the historical site Saturday morning will be able to savor the delicious breakfast foods Joanna Furnace is known for, indulge in a chocolate-enhanced menu and\u00a0learn about the history of Joanna Furnace. Many of the dishes served at the event will be reminiscent of the breakfasts served in the historic furnace homes.<\/span><\/p>\n

The all-you-can-eat Valentine\u2019s Breakfast Buffet will feature bacon, creamed chipped beef, eggs, fresh country sausage, ham, scrapple, pancakes, hash browns, toast, coffee, juice and fresh strawberries accompanied by a fabulous chocolate dip.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The \u201cLovers\u2019 Day\u201d ambiance will be enhanced by live music performed by Phyllis Hummel. The veteran musician from Berks County will play acoustical guitar and sing a variety of romantic ballads throughout the breakfast time.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tickets for the breakfast are $9 for adults and $4.50 for children (ages 5-11). Reservations are not required for breakfast.<\/span><\/p>\n

Valentine\u2019s Day and chocolates go together like Easter and decorated eggs or Thanksgiving and turkey. One of the best things about February is Valentine\u2019s Day and one of the best things about Valentine\u2019s Day is chocolate.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you\u2019re up for a drive in the country, you could take your valentine to Hershey for \u201cChocolate-Covered February in Hershey\u201d (various locations around Hershey, 800-HERSHEY, www.chocolatecoveredfebruary.com<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n

Hershey has decadent chocolate events planned throughout the month of February including \u201cChocolate Dinner Extraordinaire,\u201d \u201cThe Great Hot Cocoa Challenge,\u201d \u201cHersheypark Chocolate Parade,\u201d \u201cHershey\u2019s Chocolate Dessert Journey,\u201d \u201cChocolate Tea,\u201d \u201cHershey\u2019s Character Breakfast\u201d and \u201cHershey\u2019s Hot Chocolate Pajama Party\u201d at Hershey Lodge.<\/span><\/p>\n

Chocolate is also featured during \u201cWine and Chocolate Month\u201d sponsored by the Brandywine Valley Wine Trail (www.bvwinetrail.com<\/span><\/a>). The BVWT is inviting patrons to bring their sweethearts and celebrate with the wineries as they present delicious wine and chocolate tastings and other romantic events throughout February.<\/span><\/p>\n

Themed events will be held at Kreuz Creek Vineyards (553 South Guernsey Road, West Grove, 610-869-4412, info@kreutzcreekvineyards.com<\/span><\/a>) on February 13 and 14, Paradocx Vineyard (1833 Flint Hill Rd., Landenberg, 610-255-5684, www.paradocx.com<\/span><\/a>) from February 8-12 and Black Walnut Winery (3000 Lincoln Highway, Sadsburyville, 610-857-5566, www.blackwalnutwinery.com<\/span><\/a>) from February 6-28.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Brandywine Artisan Wine Trail (http:\/\/www.brandywineartisanwinetrail.com<\/span><\/a>) will also celebrate chocolate, wines and Valentines throughout the month as part of its month-long \u201cArt of the Valentine\u201d event.<\/span><\/p>\n

Participating wineries are Flickerwood Wine Cellars<\/span><\/a> (116 W. State St., Kennett Square), Galer Estate Vineyard & Winery<\/span><\/a> (700 Folly Hill Rd., Kennett Square), Grace Winery<\/span><\/a> (50 Sweetwater Road, Glen Mills), Kreutz Creek Vineyard Tasting Room<\/span><\/a> (44 East Gay Street, West Chester), Paradocx Vineyard<\/span><\/a> (879 East Baltimore Pike, Kennett Square), Penns Woods Winery<\/span><\/a>(124 Beaver Valley Road, Chadds Ford), Ten Gallon Hat Winery<\/span><\/a> (455 Old Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford) and Wilson Vineyard<\/span><\/a> (4374 Forge Road, Nottingham).<\/span><\/p>\n

Additionally, the Chaddsford Winery (632 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, 610-388-6221, www.chaddsford.com<\/span><\/a>) will offer \u201cWine & Chocolate Pairings\u201d from February 6-28. Participants will be able to explore several areas of the historic property visit six stations that feature a different pairing of John & Kira\u2019s<\/span><\/a>\u00a0gourmet chocolate with the winery\u2019s award-winning wine.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Enjoy a Sweetheart Skate at RiverRink in Philly on Valentine’s Day.<\/p><\/div>\n

If you\u2019re looking for another out-of-the-ordinary way to celebrate Valentine\u2019s Day, you might want to consider taking part in the \u201cSweetheart Skate\u201d at the Blue Cross RiverRink (Market Street at the Delaware River, Philadelphia, 215-923-6533, www.riverrink.com<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSweetheart Skate\u201d is slated for February 14 at the outdoor rink with four skating sessions — 5-6:30 p.m.,\u00a07-8:30 p.m., 9-10:30 p.m. and 11 p.m.-12:30 a.m.\u00a0The event\u2019s focus is providing a suitable atmosphere for guests to skate with their special someone and RiverRink features one of the most romantic settings in the city.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tickets, which are $25, include chocolates, flowers, photo booth, and a DJ taking your special requests. Food and specialty cocktails can be purchased on-site from Garces Group and Franklin Fountain.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

A deejay will host the evening and serve up a menu of music that will allow guests to skate to their favorite love songs with their significant others. As an added attraction, there will be a variety of special games and opportunities to win prizes.<\/span><\/p>\n

From February 17-21,\u00a0the Wells Fargo Center\u00a0(Broad Street below Pattison Avenue, Philadelphia,\u00a0800-298-4200,\u00a0www.ComcastTIX.com<\/span><\/a>)\u00a0will host \u201cRingling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents Legends.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ringling Bros. has searched the globe to find the most skilled circus masters for \u201cLegends\u201d and found majestic animals, exotic performers from faraway lands, fearless daredevils and the funniest clowns around.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents Legends at the Wells Fargo Center, starting Feb. 17.<\/p><\/div>\n

One of the featured acts in \u201cLegends\u201d is Alexander Lacey and his magnificent big cats. Lacey has had a long history raising big cats considering that his father was circus director who later owned his own zoo.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Lacey family has raised more than 11 generations of lions and nine generations of tigers. \u00a0Each of Lacey\u2019s cats has its own unique behaviors, characteristics, body type and even sounds. He knows each cat so well that he can identify the cats by listening to their roars. Lacey incorporates each cat\u2019s unique behavior into his act.<\/span><\/p>\n

Lacey\u2019s typical day starts at 6:30 a.m., when he waters and prepares the cats for act practice. He observes each cat and watches for their natural characteristics and then incorporates their behaviors into the act for the show. Once practice is over, it\u2019s time to eat.<\/span><\/p>\n

Each cat consumes around 8 to 16 pounds of meat daily. By 10 a.m., it\u2019s time to clean up, get another round of drinks and play. The cats love to play with branches, balls and water basins. During the evening, the younger cats practice. Right before bedtime, each cat gets a serving of warm milk and liver oil, which keeps their coats healthy and shiny.<\/span><\/p>\n

Lacey communicates with the cats in English and German. Each of his cats has its own unique behaviors, characteristics, body type and even sounds.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have 17 big cats — six lions, 10 tigers and one leopard — and I know and understand each of them very well,\u201d said Lacey, during a phone interview Thursday afternoon. \u201cAll of the cats have been born and bred by my family. Our family has had big cats for 50 years. My parents owned two zoos in England and we got on really good with lions and tigers.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Lacey, who has been performing with his huge felines for Ringling Bros. for the last four years, got into working with the cats when he was a youngster in Nottingham, England.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI got more involved as a teenager,\u201d said Lacey, who was discovered by Ringling Bros. when he was performing in Monet Carlo. \u201cMy first live show was when I was 17.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe lions we have now are 11<\/span>th<\/sup><\/span> generation and the tigers are the ninth. They are all very healthy animals with no inbreeding. A lot of effort goes into making sure the bloodlines are pure. If a mother has six cubs and only four teats, the other two will be bottle-fed. By the time the cats are three or three-and-a-half, they perform in front of the public for the first time.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0\u201cWe have great facilities for the cats here with the circus and a very good set-up at home. They are fed very well. The meat bill is $5,000 a month. In the wild, the average life expectancy is 12 years for males and 14 years for females. All our cats live to be in their mid-20s. That speaks volumes for the care they\u2019re given.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Video link for \u201cRingling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents Legends\u201d\u00a0<\/i>— https:\/\/youtu.be\/izrgjP2MRjs<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Video link for Alexander Lacey — https:\/\/youtu.be\/MqoiZV91zBc<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Attendees can enjoy the \u201cAll Access Pre-Show\u201d free with a ticket purchase. The pre-show, which begins one hour before show time, gives fans the opportunity to meet the cast of performers and get up close to the animals.\u00a0Tickets for the show range from\u00a015-$115.<\/span><\/p>\n

With outside temperatures hovering in single digits and wind chill factors dipping into the sub-zero range locally, there have been a lot of days that fall into the \u201cgood day to stay at home\u201d category. But, for active people and parents with active kids, there is also a need to get out of the house and do something.<\/span><\/p>\n

Fortunately, there are ways to accomplish both at the same time. One way is heading to a theater to see a show — a live show performed on stage not a hit movie on huge screen in a little mini-theater room.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.<\/p><\/div>\n

If you asked almost any young girl you know to name their favorite heroine, the overwhelming majority would most likely say \u201cBelle\u201d from \u201cDisney\u2019s Beauty and the Beast.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

From February 16-21, Belle and her cast mates from \u201cDisney\u2019s Beauty and the Beast\u201d will be onstage in Philadelphia when the Kimmel Center\u2019s Broadway Philadelphia series presents the hit musical at the Academy of Music (Broad and Locust streets, Philadelphia, 215-893-1999 or www.kimmelcenter.org<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0\u201cBeauty and the Beast\u201d is a traditional fairy tale that originated in France several centuries ago. In 1991, Disney produced \u201cBeauty and the Beast\u201d as a musical animated film. It won Academy Awards for \u201cBest Song<\/span><\/a>\u201d and \u201cBest Original Score\u201d and was the first animated film to be nominated for an Academy Award for \u201cBest Picture.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

A few years later, the score was expanded and the story was transformed into a stage production. \u201cDisney\u2019s Beauty and the Beast\u201d opened on Broadway in April 1994 and a year later was a Tony Award winner.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDisney\u2019s Beauty and the Beast\u201d is the classic story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped in a spell placed by an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity.<\/span><\/p>\n

The \u201cBeauty\u201d in \u201cBeauty and the Beast\u201d is Belle — one of the show\u2019s two leading characters. Belle is a true heroine who looks danger in the eye and doesn\u2019t flinch. On the current National Tour, the role of Belle is being performed by Brooke Quintana.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWith this tour, we left New York City in September and did tech in Athens, Georgia,\u201d said Quintana, during a recent phone interview for a tour stop in Huntsville, Alabama. \u201cWe opened in Charlotte, North Carolina. That was pretty exciting because I\u2019m from North Carolina and my mom was able to come to the show.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI graduated from East Carolina University with a degree in musical theater with a concentration in Meisner (acting technique). I started out at the North Carolina School for the Arts studying opera. Then, I transferred to ECU and shifted to musical theater.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Now, instead of playing roles such as Carmen and Tosca, Quintana is playing Belle.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI remember \u2018Disney\u2019s Beauty and the Beast\u2019 from when I was really little,\u201d said Quintana, who grew up in Cary, North Carolina. \u201cIt was always my mom\u2019s favorite Disney show. Now, it\u2019s so exciting to actually be playing Belle.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI always loved Belle because she\u2019s strong. She\u2019s not a damsel in distress — she\u2019s a strong woman. It\u2019s amazing that she is so brave and so strong. Belle is an incredible role model.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen she goes to the castle to save her father who is locked up by the Beast, her dad tells her not to give in to the Beast. She says \u2018no, no.\u2019 She\u2019s not going to stand there and let someone hurt a person she loves so much.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Belle is an iconic role — a character that audiences around the world have come to know and love. When an actress plays the role of Belle, she has to be ready to meet people\u2019s expectations.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI just go out and give it my all,\u201d said Quintana. \u201cI think the audience can feel the passion. It\u2019s still intimidating at times. But, it\u2019s also one of the most exciting things that could happen to me.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOne of the biggest challenges about playing Belle is just knowing that I can\u2019t compare myself to other people. I\u2019m doing the show the way I was taught — and the way I enjoy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Video link for \u201cBeauty and the Beast\u201d — https:\/\/youtu.be\/bnAOuqX9Kzo<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Performances are scheduled for February 16, 17 and 18 at 7:30 p.m.; February 19 at 8 p.m.; February 20 at 2 and 8 p.m.; and February 21 at 1 and 6:30 p.m. Tickets range from $26.50 to $101.50.<\/span><\/p>\n

Now through February 28, the Candlelight Theatre is featuring a stage production of \u201cMonty Python\u2019s Spamalot.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The lively comedy was the winner of three Tony Awards in 2005, including Best Musical and Best Direction of a Musical, and the 2006 Grammy Award for Best Musical Show Album. The Broadway success spawned a national tour \u2014 a tour that visited Philadelphia in 2007 and returned to Philly in 2008.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSpamalot\u201d is a musical comedy that is billed as being \u201clovingly ripped off from the film classic \u2018Monty Python and The Holy Grail\u2019.\u201d It features a book by former Monty Python member Eric Idle and music and lyrics by the Grammy Award-winning team of Idle and John Du Prez.<\/span><\/p>\n

The outrageous musical farce tells the tale of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table as they embark on their quest for the Holy Grail. Most audience members will know to be on the lookout for flying cows, killer rabbits and taunting Frenchmen.<\/span><\/p>\n

The busiest actor onstage at the Candlelight in this production is Brian McCole, who plays the role of \u201cArthur, King of Britons.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis is my fourth show at the Candlelight,\u201d said McCole, during a phone interview Thursday afternoon from his office in Philadelphia.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI also was the Constable in \u2018Fiddle on the Roof,\u2019 Cratchett in \u2018A Christmas Carol,\u2019 and Inspector Kemp in \u2018Young Frankenstein\u2019 — four shows with four different foreign accents and four different styles of facial hair.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI am a Celtic history buff — and a Celtic mythology buff — so this is a great role for me,\u201d Ancient roots appeal to me. I have read Mabinogion, the Welsh legend cycle which mentions King Arthur. And, I have Irish roots.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

With \u201cSpamalot,\u201d the success of the show depends on the success of the actor playing Arthur.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s the largest single role so there\u2019s definitely some responsibility there,\u201d said McCole, who grew up in Ambler (PA) and lived in L.A. for 13 years before returning to the Delaware Valley.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0\u201cI\u2019m not the strongest singer or the most talented dancer so that\u2019s a challenge. We have a really talented cast so everyone carries the show. I play the straight man so I don\u2019t want to let my followers down.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love that Arthur is a struggling leader who has to work a little harder — someone who has a childlike wonder for the gifts he was given and the events around him — someone who gets frustrated when things don\u2019t go as planned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis show is really popular with audiences because it\u2019s full of great laughs and, in these times, people need to laugh as much as possible. It\u2019s a handrail for people to hold on to in these challenging times.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Performances are Friday and Saturday evenings (doors 6 p.m.\/show, 8 p.m.) and Sunday afternoons (doors, 1 p.m.\/show, 3 p.m.). Tickets, which include dinner and show, are $59 for adults and $33 for children (ages 4-12).<\/span><\/p>\n

You almost definitely know people who have tattoos on their body. You also probably do not know anyone with just one tattoo on his or her body. Tattoos are like potato chips. It\u2019s really hard to stop with just one.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tattoos have been worn since the early days of civilization. They seemingly have been around forever and they just keep getting more popular every year. And, their popularity knows no sex or class distinction. Bikers have their \u201cBorn to Ride\u201d tats, socialites have their discreetly-placed \u201cbutterfly\u201d tattoos and women of all ages have succumbed to the urge to get a \u201ctramp stamp.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

From February 12-14, the Pennsylvania Convention Center (10<\/span>th<\/sup><\/span> and Arch streets, Philadelphia, 800- 541-8239, www.villainarts.com<\/span><\/a>) is hosting the Philadelphia Tattoo Arts Convention.<\/span><\/p>\n

The convention runs from 2 p.m.-midnight today, 11 a.m.-midnight on Saturday and 11 a.m.-8 p.m. on Sunday. The main focus of the convention will be hundreds of booths hosted by top-flight tattoo artists.<\/span><\/p>\n

The event features a huge roster of special guests including Amy Nicoletto from LA Ink, Alli Baker from Best Ink, Myke Chambers, Reese Hilburn from Tattoo Nightmares Miami, Justin Coppolino from Tattoos After Dark, Philadelphia Eddie, Bowery Stan Moskowitz, Dana Brunson and Shanghai Kate.<\/span><\/p>\n

There will also be a huge line-up of Ink Master stars including Chris Blinston, Matt O\u2019Baugh, Steven Tefft, Shane O\u2019Neill, James Vaughn, Big Ceeze, Mystical Mike, Mark Longenecker, Aaron Is, Kyle Dunbar, Emily Elegado, Robbie Rippoll, Halo Jankowski, Gentle Jay Blondel, and Keith Diffenderfer.<\/span><\/p>\n

Other attractions include a video game tournament, free samples, raffles and kids\u2019 activities. There will also be opportunities for show attendees to have pictures of their tattoos taken by a number of magazines.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tickets are $20 per day or $40 for a weekend pass.<\/span><\/p>\n

Days when expected low temperatures are listed in single digits make it hard to even think about playing golf. But, golf aficionados frequently have the game in their minds at least 360 days a year.<\/span><\/p>\n

From February 12-14, golfers will have plenty of reasons to have golf thoughts occupying their minds because this is the weekend for the annual Philadelphia Golf Show at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center (Station Avenue, Oaks, 330-963-6963, http:\/\/northcoastgolfshows.com<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n

The popular annual show features a huge assortment of vendors with a wide array of golf-related products. This allows visitors to shop, compare and save on a huge selection of golf equipment, apparel and accessories. Attendees will see the East Coast\u2019s largest presentation of golf equipment, apparel, and accessories all under one roof.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0In addition to finding great buys, visitors can also plan their next golf vacation. Nearly 100 local and national golf resorts will be on-hand and ready to help you with travel plans. Other show features include several one-of-a-kind ball striking activities and competitions, stage presentations, celebrity appearances, and much more! This is the perfect time and place to gear up for spring.<\/span><\/p>\n

The list of special attractions includes a \u201cManufacturers Demo Range\u201d, a \u201cLong Drive Championship,\u201d \u201cClub Fitting,\u201d and a \u201cLong Putt Challenge.\u201d As an added attraction, golfers will have the opportunity to receive free instruction from PGA professionals and to take part in skills competitions to win valuable prizes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tickets are $10 and are good for all three days. Children (under 12) will be admitted free.<\/span><\/p>\n

This weekend, you can experience Scotland, Ireland and the other Celtic cultures without leaving the country. All that is needed is a short drive to King of Prussia. The annual Greater Philadelphia Mid-Winter Scottish & Irish Music Festival is taking place from February 12-14 at (First Avenue, King of Prussia, 610- 825-7268, www.eohebrides.com<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n

This year\u2019s event is the 24th annual staging of the popular celebration of Gaelic culture. The festival gets underway tonight with the Kick-Off Concert. The show, which begins at 7:30 p.m., features The Hooligans, Albannach and the Mudmen.<\/span><\/p>\n

On Saturday and Sunday, there will be continuous live performances at four different stages — two on the lower level, one in the Casino Food Court and one in the Valley Forge Park Ballroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

Some of the headline acts are the John Byrne Band, Screaming Orphans and Searson. The roster of acts slated to perform this weekend also includes MacLeod Fiddlers, Fitzpatrick Irish Dancers, the Brigadoons, the Campbell Highland Dancers, Oliver McElhone, the Cummins Irish Dancers, Timlin & Kane, Timlin & Kane, McLean Avenue Band, Charlie Zahn & Tad Marks, Seamus Kennedy, Anus Richardson, Gabriel Donohue, and Jamison and the Celtic Flame Dancers.<\/span><\/p>\n

For well over 100 years, Ireland has maintained a tradition of producing great musicians, great bands, great soccer players and very good soccer teams.<\/span><\/p>\n

Talented musicians — just like talented soccer players — inevitably reach the \u201cDay of Decision\u201d — the day they finally decide whether to pursue their craft as a life\u2019s occupation.<\/span><\/p>\n

Should they quit altogether? Should they go \u2018semi-pro\u201d and play in amateur leagues or local bars? Or, should they throw the hat in the ring and go for the big time.<\/span><\/p>\n

John Byrne, who is one of the main draws at this weekend\u2019s festival, faced that decision a few weeks ago. Obviously, the singer-songwriter-guitarist chose music.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was teaching and playing with my band but it was hard to do both,\u201d said Byrne, during a phone interview last week from his home in Philadelphia\u2019s Fishtown section. \u201cI quit teaching five years ago.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI had put out a record in 2011 and it was doing well. I had to re-evaluate what I really wanted to do. So, I decided it was time to do music full-time. I\u2019ve been playing music all along ever since I moved from Dublin to Philly in 1999.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut, I never felt I gave it 100 per cent because I was making a living as a teacher at the same time. After I made the decision, the first year or so was scary. I put a great band together and we toured all over the states and Ireland.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Byrne had an unusual introduction to this area.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI came to America when I was in college to work in Wildwood, New Jersey during the summer,\u201d said Byrne, a native of Dublin. \u201cI decided to work another summer in Wildwood after I graduated from college and then I stayed in the states. I had started to play music at bars. I liked Philly so I moved here in the late 90s.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI made my first album right after I moved here. It was only an O.K. album but it led to the start of the band Patrick\u2019s Head. \u00a0We recorded six albums. In 2010, I made my own album \u2018After the wake\u2019 and that started things going well for me. It got great reviews and it sold very well.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIn 2011, I put together a four-piece band and toured all over the country. That helped grow our name. In 2012, I recorded an album of Irish tunes like \u2018The Parting Glass.\u2019 It was a Celtic\/Folk album and it turned out great.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Now, the John Byrne Band is touring behind a new album — \u201cThe Immigrant and the Orphan.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIn 2014, I started working with Rob Schaeffer,\u201d said Byrne, who is still an avid fan of Irish and world football (soccer). \u201cI did as lot of pre-production work on the new album in his studio. It took about 10 months to make the album.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Video link for the John Byrne Band — https:\/\/youtu.be\/ZdDZ0sNm-z0<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Additionally, the festival will also feature Scottish and Irish gift shops, face painting, dance classes, performances by strolling bagpipers, booths featuring clans and fraternal organizations and demonstrations of Irish, Scottish and Canadian dances.<\/span><\/p>\n

There will also be plenty of taste treats from Scotland and Ireland including imported beer, Scottish and Irish whiskeys, fish and chips, birdies, scones, shortbread and meat pies.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tickets are $18 for Friday, $30 for Saturday and $25 for Sunday.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCarnivore Capades\u201d is a special event featuring meat-eating species from artound the world. It will be held from February 13-15 at the Academy of Natural Sciences (1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, 215- 299-1000, www.ansp.org<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n

At \u201cAnimals of the Academy,\u201d visitors can learn all about the creatures that call the Academy home and their similarities and differences and they can learn about the array of meat-eating animals that live in the region and the awesome adaptations they have developed to survive at the Auditorium Show \u201cCaptivating Carnivores.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

1 p.m.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDeadly Dinosaurs\u201d looks at the dinosaurs that ate meat — carnivorous dinosaurs that once roamed the earth and were know for their fearsome teeth and claws. At \u201cPredator and Prey,\u201d visitors will be able to learn about the essential adaptations that helped carnivores hunt successfully.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTarantulas: Alive and Up Close\u201d allows visitors to come face-to-face with a stunning array of live tarantulas, explore a tarantula burrow and get their pictures taken with these live eight-legged beasts. There will also be a special \u201cTarantula Talk\u201d at 11:45 a.m.<\/span><\/p>\n

Other activities include \u201cCarnivore Crafts,\u201d \u201cOwl Pellet Dissection: Microscope Cart,\u201d and \u201cCarnivore Capades Story Time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Tickets are $17.95 for adults, $14.95 for seniors and $13.95 for children (ages 3-12).<\/span><\/p>\n

Longwood Gardens (Route 1, Kennett Square, 610-388-1000, www.longwoodgardens.org<\/span><\/a>) is hosting its popular \u201cOrchid Extravaganza\u201d through March 29.<\/span><\/p>\n

The celebration of the orchid species features thousands of orchid blooms along with a variety of displays and special exhibits throughout its four-acre conservatory. \u201cOrchid Extravaganza\u201d will also feature stunning displays of orchids in planting beds, containers and innovative exhibits.<\/span><\/p>\n

Approximately 5,000 colorful orchids hang from baskets, create inspiring arrangements and adorn unique forms throughout\u00a0\u201cOrchid Extravaganza.\u201d Two of the most interesting exhibits are an oncidium waterfall display and an orchid meadow.<\/span><\/p>\n

Longwood\u2019s \u201cValentine\u2019s Day Weekend\u201d will feature special brunch and dinner menus in the 1906 restaurant as well as live music by violinist Ann Fontanella from 4-7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday\u00a0in the Conservatory.<\/span><\/p>\n

Admission to Longwood Gardens is $20 for adults, $17 for seniors and $10 for students.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you\u2019re planning an a major renovation to your home — or even if you\u2019re just considering working on small projects around the house — you should consider a visit to this weekend\u2019s 35th Annual Philadelphia Home Show.<\/span><\/p>\n

The show is running from February 12-14 and again on February 19-21 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center (12th and Arch streets, Philadelphia, 215- 418-2003, www.phillyhomeshow.com<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n

The popular annual show features a large number of exhibits representing the home renovation and decorating industry. Showcased products and services include roofing, windows, flooring, decking, landscaping, spas, contractors, designers, water, swimming pools, doors, gutters security systems, cabinetry, entertainment systems, appliances, furniture, vacuums and more.<\/span><\/p>\n

This year\u2019s event will feature celebrity appearances by John Gidding of HGTV\u2019s \u201cCurb Appeal,\u201d Alison Victoria of\u00a0 DIY\u2019S\u00a0\u201cCrashers,\u201d Jeff Devlin of\u00a0 DIY\u2019S\u00a0\u201cI Hate My Bath\u201d\u00a0and HGTV\u2019S\u00a0\u201cSpice Up My Kitchen,\u201d and Jason Cameron of\u00a0 DIY\u2019S\u00a0\u201cDesperate Landscapes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Tickets are $10 for adults and $3 for children (ages 6-12).<\/span><\/p>\n

On February 13, the Delaware Chinese American Association will present \u201cDelaware Chinese New Year Celebration 2015\u201d at The Independence School Auditorium, 1300 Paper Mill Road, Newark, Delaware, 302-689-3235,\u00a0www.dcaadelaware.org<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n

The festive annual event will feature traditional Chinese singing and dancing. The list of other activities at the one-day festival includes magic and variety shows, raffles, dim sum, and a Chinese artifact exhibit.<\/span><\/p>\n

The celebration is slated to get underway at 2 p.m. on February 13 with a snow date scheduled for February 20.\u00a0<\/span>\u514d<\/span>\u8d39<\/span>,\u00a0<\/span>\u6b22\u8fce\u5927\u5bb6\u5149\u4e34<\/span>\u00a0(which means this is a free event and all are welcome.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

From romantic skate, to chocolates and wine, many ways to share your love By Denny Dyroff,\u00a0Staff Writer, The Times It\u2019s hard to imagine anyone not being aware that this weekend is Valentine\u2019s Day Weekend but it\u2019s not hard to imagine people appreciating a few suggestions on how to celebrate the occasion with their sweethearts. There […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":28147,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[5,7],"tags":[8038,590,913],"class_list":["post-28151","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-community","category-featured","tag-activities","tag-fun","tag-valentines-day"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/28151","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=28151"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/28151\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/28147"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=28151"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=28151"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=28151"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}