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Bobsled, skeleton WCups return to North America

Bobsled, skeleton WCups return to North America

Bobsled and skeleton World Cup races will return to North America this fall for the first time since before the pandemic, finally giving U.S. and Canadian athletes a chance to compete on home ice again.

The International Bobsled and Skeleton Federation has decided to start the 2022-23 season with three stops in the U.S. and Canada before the Christmas break. The tour will open on the 2010 Olympic track in Whistler, Canada, from Nov. 22-27, then move to the 2002 Olympic track in Park City, Utah, from Nov. 29 to Dec. 4, and from there it will go to Lake Placid, New York.

The first event in Lake Placid is the world push championships at the newly remodeled indoor facility at the Mount Van Hoevenberg complex on Dec. 7-8, followed by a regular World Cup the following week.

“After two seasons of not hosting IBSF World Cup competitions due to COVID-19, we are excited to be back in North America to start the upcoming season with events in both Park City and Lake Placid,” USA Bobsled and Skeleton CEO Aron McGuire said. “Building on the success from the 2022 Olympic Winter Games, USA athletes are looking forward to racing on home tracks and in front of a home crowd.”

The most recent World Cup sliding event in North America was in 2019. All three North American tracks lost events — including world championship races in Whistler and Lake Placid — because of the pandemic, with international officials relocating those events to Europe and Asia.

American and Canadian sliders have spoken out in recent months about a wish for more races on home ice, and having essentially the first half of the bobsled and skeleton World Cup seasons in North America should be a boost to both programs.

It also will save on travel — the U.S. and Canadian teams won’t have to head to Europe for races this season until around Jan. 1. In many years, the North American teams have been in Europe before Christmas, returned home for holiday breaks, then had to eventually head back to Europe for the remainder of the season.

The remainder of the international bobsled and skeleton schedule for this coming season: Winterberg, Germany, on Jan. 3-8; two separate events in Altenberg, Germany, on Jan. 10-15 and Jan. 17-22; world championships in St. Moritz, Switzerland, on Jan. 24 through Feb. 5; the resumption of World Cup in Innsbruck, Austria, on Feb. 7-12; and the finale in Sigulda, Latvia, on Feb. 14-19.

Luge’s World Cup schedule for the coming season has yet to be announced. Officials in Park City have expressed interest in playing host to a luge event this season as well.

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Fort St. John North Peace Museum update: Back to more events and programs

Fort St. John North Peace Museum update: Back to more events and programs

Admission is free but donations are appreciated. Masks are recommended and attendance will be capped at the first 50 people to arrive. For more information, call 250-787-0430.

We were excited to host some programs and guided tours for camps over spring break and we have just released our program information to schools. Information on all our programs can be found at fsjmuseum.com.

Lastly, we are very happy to be updating our display case in the hospital lobby again with a brand new exhibit.

Access has been limited during the pandemic and we are thrilled to be teaming up with the Fort St. John Hospital Arts Committee once again. This new display looks at surgery in the North Peace from the 1930s to the 1970s through equipment, photographs, and stories. Look for it in the lobby between reception and Cool Beans Café.

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Fathom Events, Spain’s Bosco Partner to Release Documentary ‘Alive’ in 700 North American Screens (EXCLUSIVE)

Fathom Events, Spain’s Bosco Partner to Release Documentary ‘Alive’ in 700 North American Screens (EXCLUSIVE)

Fathom Events and Spain’s Bosco Films are partnering to bring faith-based documentary “Vivo” (“Alive”) to about 700 North American locations on April 25.

Produced by Hakuna Films and directed by Jorge Pareja, “Alive” narrates four real-life stories filmed in Spain of people who tell how Christian’s Eucharist transformed their lives.

“Alive,” which previously bowed by Bosco in Spain and 14 Latin American territories, marks the Spanish indie distributor’s leap into the international market, where it’s been closing a bundle of exhibition agreements with local and international operators.

The peak in “Alive’s” international theatrical career comes with the U.S. release after the Fathom Events deal.

“In the event cinema business, we see that people come to the theater in groups, having a true community experience,” said Ray Nutt, CEO of Fathom Events. 

“To be able to bring this same experience to the Spanish speaking community is very important to us. Our goal is to provide a variety of programming experiences to a wide array of audiences, nationwide.”

“We hope that this window open for Spanish cinema will no longer close,” said Lucía González-Barandiarán, Bosco Films founder.

“There is a huge boom in inspirational cinema in the U.S. Especially in the post-pandemic era, people are looking for other kinds of content and proving they are a loyal and big audience. The platforms, at least in Europe, have not yet realized the gold mine that exists behind that line,” she added.

Released in Spain on April 9, 2021, “Alive” reached the local box office’s top 10 with only six prints, averaging a healthy €5,582 ($6,231). By year’s end, it snagged a $269,021 box office, the third best result for a local documentary last year.

Bosco also launched the film in Mexican theaters in November, in 30 locations, debuting at the eighth position at the local box office. In Colombian theaters, the film has sold nearly 100,000 tickets.

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Lucia Gonzalez Barandiaran, Bosco Films
Courtesy of Bosco Films

“Alive” bowed in 14 Latin American territories after Bosco inked deals with regional exhibitors such as Cinemex, Cinemark and Hoyts, but also with local indie theatrical chains for territories such as Argentina and Uruguay.

The film has also been sold to indie distributor Rafael Film in Poland and to Saje for France, Belgium and Switzerland. Deals are in final negotiations in territories such as Brazil and Slovakia, while Bosco is in talks with operators in Germany, Austria and Korea. 

Bosco is already preparing the Latin American theatrical releases for this year of two more faith-based Spanish films: “Claret,” a biography of Spanish Roman Catholic archbishop and missionary Antonio Maria Claret, and “La sirvienta,” about Santa Vicenta María.

A fourth title acquired by Bosco to be released in the region is Thierry Demaizière and Alban Teurlai’s French documentary “Lourdes,” which sold 250,000 tickets in France, handled by Mars Distribution.

Since its launch in 2017, Bosco has distributed about 20 films in Spain, at the same time providing communication and marketing services to companies such as Universal, Sony, Diamond Films, Flins & Pinículas, Vercine and Márgenes.

“We specialized in a niche film distribution, studying in depth the needs of an audience and seeking to respond effectively to them. This is what has kept us afloat,” González-Barandiarán said. 

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Eastern North Carolina Easter events happening this weekend

Eastern North Carolina Easter events happening this weekend

PITT COUNTY, N.C. (WITN) -Ahead of the highly anticipated holiday, there are a few Easter events happening this weekend across the East.

In Greenville, a community Easter Egg Hunt hosted by the Pitt County Leroy James Farmers Market and The Village and Farm Museum will take place Saturday at 10:00 a.m.

The hunt is free and open to the public, located at 4560 County Home Road in Greenville. Parking will be available at The Village and Farm Museum.

Registration starts at 10:00 a.m., and the schedules are divided by age group with kids four years and younger starting at 10:30 a.m. and ages five through nine starting at 11:00 a.m.

Participants are encouraged to bring a basket to collect eggs and there is no age limit for participation.

An egg hunt will also be in Bethel Saturday starting at 11: 00 a.m. at the Bethel library.

Vendors, a worship team and a time for community prayer will also take place at the event in Bethel.

Copyright 2022 WITN. All rights reserved.

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Celebrate the Wearin’ of the Green: St. Patty’s Events Across the North

Celebrate the Wearin’ of the Green: St. Patty’s Events Across the North
By Northern Express Staff & Contributors | March 12, 2022

Welcome to the magical time of the year where St. Patrick’s Day, Mardi Gras, and spring all come together to create a flurry of events around northern Michigan. Whether you’re seeking green beer, green beads, or the return of greener grasses, we’ve pulled together 10 events to pack your social calendar this weekend.

THURSDAY, MARCH 17
1. It’s pub crawl time! The Rocking Thirsty-Union Pub Crawl starts at 1pm, and attendees will bop back and forth between Thirsty Fish and Union Street Station for 12 hours of fun. Four musical acts—Timebombs, Rolling Dirty, Stonehengz, and Soulpatch—keep attendees entertained at each stop as the libations flow until 1:00am.

3. Just down the road, The Parlor will help you get your jig on with specials on Jameson, Guinness, and Baileys and tunes from the Old Mission Fiddle Vine. Led by fiddler Michael Markley, the band offers traditional Irish music with country, bluegrass, and cajun influences. (And if one show isn’t enough, catch the Old Mission Fiddle Vine again at the Music House on Saturday!)

3. If you’re searching for classic Irish revelry in downtown Traverse City, Kilkenny’s Irish Public House will feature music throughout St. Patrick’s Day, much of it with an Irish brogue. The corned beef reuben and Gaelic egg rolls are always on the menu, but tonight’s the night to order double.

4. Frankfort’s Stormcloud Brewing Company is rolling out the green carpet with an Irish-inspired feast at the pub. Those who need their green beer fix will find a verdant version of the Birdwalker Blonde on tap, a light-bodied and lightly hopped Belgian. An Irish music show from Ben Traverse and Josh Holcomb closes out the night from 8-10pm.

5. For more music and drinks inspired by the Emerald Isle, don’t miss the celebration at Lake Ann Brewing Co. Lake Ann will host the Jameson Brothers in their heated outdoor tent alongside a great brew and a meal of corned beef and cabbage from nearby Stone Oven restaurant.

6. Have you caught a show at Encore 201 yet? TC’s newest entertainment space, located at 201 E. Front St. (above Sparks BBQ), is hosting a night of live music and dancing featuring acoustic classic rock trio Project Six from 9-11pm. Tickets are $5 at MyNorth.com.

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, MARCH 19-20
7. Ready to get your crazy on? Or celebrate St. Patrick’s Day? At Boyne Mountain in Boyne Falls, they are one and the same. Boyne Mountain Carnival Weekend combines aspects of Mardi Gras and St. Patrick’s Day to create an event that locals refer to as “Krazy Daze.” (Note: this is a 21+ party—not for the kiddos!)

More properly dubbed “Carnival Weekend,” the two-day celebration offers revelers a bevy of events from which to choose. On Saturday, there’s the Spring-a-licious Snow Beach Party with inflatable lounge and lawn games at the Mountain Express Base Area. Later that day, don’t miss the costume party at the Snow Beach Stage, where there will be music all day long from bands and DJs. That night, check out the Après Ski Party at the Back Forty Biergarten.

Sunday the fun continues with the infamous Slush Cup at the base of North McLouth. The Last Man Standing Brunch & Bloody Mary Bar runs from 10-1 at Stein Eriksen’s and The Alpen Hut. And of course there’s skiing, snowboarding, ziplining, and more all weekend long.

8. Turns out Krazy Daze is just the tip of the mountain. Head to Crystal Mountain for its annual Celts and Kayaks event. Look for leprechauns on the slopes and the fun of the kayak race down Cheers to Lou. Its own Slush Cup is sure to provide chills and spills, with music, a scavenger hunt, and a pot of gold challenge.

9. If you don’t mind a wee bit of travel, head to Ludington for a full day of fun. “A Wee Bit Late St. Patrick’s Celebration” on Saturday includes an Irish jog 5K and 10K, Kegs & Eggs breakfast, Follow the Rainbow scavenger hunt, a Shamrock Parade, Pied Piper Pub Crawl, and lots of live music. For specifics, go to downtownludington.org/stpatricksday.

10. Last but not least, while not quite a St. Patty’s celebration, great drinks are still involved at the ever-popular Slush Cup at the Highlands in Harbor Springs. You’ll find skiers braving the pond at the bottom of the hill with wine slushies from Brys Estate as the themed beverage. That’s just one of the wineries participating in the wine tasting event on Saturday, along with Verterra Winery, Mackinaw Trail Winery & Brewery, Left Foot Charley, and WaterFire Vineyards.

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Several events held in North Texas in support of peace in Ukraine

Several events held in North Texas in support of peace in Ukraine

There were several events held across North Texas this weekend as people showed support for Ukraine.

Some have family in Ukraine who were able to get out.

For others, Russia’s attacks are blocking any hopes of their loved ones trying to run.

Fears were heightened on a rainy Sunday in Frisco, as hundreds marched for peace in Ukraine. 

Some wore blue and yellow, while others held the Ukrainian flag high. 

“Day number 11 and I lost my sleep,” said Kateryna Volik.

Volik’s family is in Sumy, along the Ukraine-Russia border. 

“Right now, they are not evacuating nobody from my city because the roads are very bad and a very serious situation,” she added.

Reports of Russia deliberately attacking civilians are ramping up, with the Ukrainian death toll rising.

RELATED: Russian attacks halt planned civilian evacuations in Ukraine for 2nd time, official says

Families are now unable to escape the country with routes to safety turning too dangerous. 

Volik’s parents are stuck, but stepping up to help. 

“My mom is cooking food and feeding soldiers,” Volik said. “She says she’s trying to do civil things and we don’t understand what is the reason.”

According to the UN, 1.5 million refugees have now fled Ukraine.  

This weekend, Ukraine’s president gave a stark warning that an imminent attack is upon Odessa. 

“How do you make someone go and be okay with shooting at people?” asked Tatyana Neuner, who has family in Ukraine.

Her brother and his wife live in Odessa. 

Thankfully, Neuner’s sister and nephew were able to cross safely into Poland. 

“Nobody wants this. The whole world is backing up Ukraine, but it’s not enough,” Neuner said. “Everybody is afraid of Putin because he is trigger happy.”

Also Sunday, Russian Americans protested against Putin in Fort Worth. 

A stark contrast to the scenes in Moscow of Russian resistance. 

Thousands have been detained across Russia for participating in anti-war protests. 

“We have a voice here in this country. Thank God for democracy in the U.S. We can’t stay quiet,” Alyssa Honer said.

Ukrainians living in North Texas are begging for the Russian government to back down. 

“It’s their choice. They have to make a choice to not kill Ukrainians,” Iryna Chernets said.

But for now, Chernets worries her family doesn’t have a choice.

Her father is left frightened in Ukraine’s capital. 

“And we just don’t know what will happen,” Chernets said.

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Patagonia, North Face, REI and others say they’ll boycott Outdoor Retailer if it heads back to Salt Lake City

Patagonia, North Face, REI and others say they’ll boycott Outdoor Retailer if it heads back to Salt Lake City

Over two dozen outdoor industry companies, including heavyweights like Patagonia, REI, North Face and Kelty, signed a letter released Monday promising to boycott the popular Outdoor Retailer shows if the biannual events return to Salt Lake City.

The letter was posted by The Conservation Alliance, a group dedicated to land conservation efforts that counts over 270 companies among its membership. The website posting urges Emerald X, the owner of the Outdoor Retailer events, to stay out of Utah over member objections to the long-running position taken by state leaders in opposing federal land protections.

“We’ve joined together in stating that we will not support or attend a trade show event in Utah so long as its elected officials continue attacks on national monuments and public lands protections,” the letter reads. “Industry leaders are expressing their support for the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition and its longstanding efforts to protect the homeland of the Tribes and Pueblos with cultural ties to the Bears Ears landscape, as well as the overwhelming majority of the outdoor industry and the American public.

“Despite widespread industry objections, Emerald has demonstrated a continued interest in moving the Outdoor Retailer trade show to Utah, a state that leads the fight against designated national monuments and public lands.”

Salt Lake City is competing with other locales, including the current Outdoor Retailer host city of Denver, to secure the new contract for shows beginning in 2023. Salt Lake City hosted the events for 20 years before losing out to Denver in 2017 amid swirling controversy over land use issues. The shows generate tens of millions of dollars in economic activity for the host communities.

In the Conservation Alliance statement, REI executive vice president and chief customer officer Ben Steele noted that Utah leaders continue to attack federal designation efforts.

“In 2017, REI Co-op strongly supported the decision to move the outdoor industry trade show out of Utah when the state’s leadership refused to protect duly designated national monuments and natural treasures,” Steele said. “Although those protections have since been restored by President Biden, Utah’s leaders are again aiming to undermine those monuments and their protections. As a result, REI will not participate in any OR trade show in the state — nor will we send members of our merchandising or other co-op teams — so long as Utah persists in attacking our public lands and the laws that protect them.”

Utah’s capital city lost its contract to Denver in 2017 as then-President Donald Trump’s announced plans to reduce several areas of federally protected land riled the environmental community, outdoor enthusiasts, and companies that specialize in outdoor products and services. At the center of the controversy was Trump’s declared intention to erase the 1.35 million-acre Bears Ears National Monument, created by President Barack Obama in a 2016 proclamation issued just before he left office.

Utah state legislators and then-Gov. Gary Herbert threw their weight behind the Trump plan by passing a resolution in the 2017 legislative session, declaring “strong opposition to the Bears Ears National Monument designation” and urging Trump to undo his predecessor’s executive order.

The move by Utah leaders drew immediate and widespread ire, including from Patagonia, one of the world’s largest outdoor-focused companies that was founded by legendary climber, gear innovator and conservationist Yvon Chouinard. The company weighed in again in the Conservation Alliance statement, reiterating its commitment to supporting states whose elected officials support public lands protections.

“For decades, Patagonia has worked in solidarity with Indigenous communities, local activists, outdoor athletes and businesses in Utah,” said Patagonia CEO Ryan Gellert. “We love the state and its spectacular cultural and natural landscapes. We were thrilled when President Biden restored the boundaries of Bears Ears and Grand Staircase Escalante National Monuments this past October, and we will oppose any effort to undermine their protection. Our position on the location of the Outdoor Retailer trade show remains clear and unchanged: The show belongs in a state whose top officials value and seek to protect public lands.”

Following Biden’s decision to undo Trump’s reductions in Utah, Gov. Spencer Cox along with GOP state legislative leaders and all six members of Utah’s congressional delegation stated their opposition to reinstating the protections. And, Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes has said he intends to file legal action against the Biden land protection changes.

While the land use controversies continue, Denver has faced its own challenges since taking over Outdoor Retailer hosting duties.

Denver’s debut show in January 2018 was a blockbuster and remains the biggest Outdoor Retailer event ever held. Before running into restrictions precipitated by COVID-19 in 2020, the twice-yearly events were regularly drawing more than 20,000 participants and generating in excess of $50 million per show in economic activity for its host city.

But some retailers say the costs associated with exhibiting at the Denver-hosted shows have been significantly higher than they were in Utah and, with the current contract coming to a close in 2022, it may be time to reconsider Salt Lake City.

Tom Adams was director of Utah’s Office of Outdoor Recreation when the storm over federal land designations erupted in 2017. Now, he’s chief operating officer for the American operations of French climbing and work-at-heights gear company Petzl.

In a Deseret News story last September, Adams said Petzl has been a longtime exhibitor at the Outdoor Retailer events but didn’t follow the show to Denver. The decision, he said, wasn’t born out of any kind of protest stance but was simply a matter of assessing costs. A new booth, Adams said, can run from $250,000 to $1 million, and the rates for renting the space at the events “are quite high for trade shows.”

He also noted the task of getting to the actual outdoors from the exhibition space in Denver was a much bigger, and time-consuming, challenge than it was in Salt Lake City.

“I don’t know how many times, on a weekday during the Salt Lake City shows, I’d take an account out for an afternoon of ice climbing, rock climbing or making a few backcountry runs,” Adams said. “That’s just not happening in Denver.”

Bill Harmon, general manager of Utah-based portable power specialists Goal Zero, said last September that his company has exhibited once at Outdoor Retailer since the show moved to Denver but has chosen to mostly skip it due to cost and return-on-investment considerations.

“It’s so expensive to go now,” Harmon said. “The hotel rooms are materially more expensive in Denver versus here. The booth storage costs there are much more than in Salt Lake City. And the setup costs, with the union requirements, are so much more.”

Harmon also bemoaned Denver’s location, describing it as a “mountains-adjacent city, unlike Salt Lake that is actually a mountain city.”

“I can’t overstate the access issues,” Harmon said. “We’ve got a half-dozen world-class ski resorts 25 minutes away. And, if you want, you have time to get up and go for a mountain bike ride and be back before the show even starts.

“In Denver, you can plan on spending half the day driving or on shuttles to do the same things.”

Emerald X is expected to announce the new Outdoor Retailer host city soon, and Outdoor Retailer senior vice president and show director Marisa Nicholson said her company has been evaluating all issues and options ahead of striking a new contract.

“Outdoor Retailer and Emerald remain committed to supporting the outdoor and winter sports industries through hosting gatherings that both meet business needs and foster the spirit of our community,” Nicholson said in a statement. “We have been in ongoing conversations with many across our industry and are taking all input and perspectives into consideration, including responses from recent surveys — we appreciate the passion and respect everyone’s point of view.

“As we continue the process of evaluating all possible and realistic options, we remain thoughtful in our deliberations. Our goal is to host a vibrant event that not only reflects today’s new normal, but also presents an engaging event that draws more people into this community in ways that are authentic and affordable. No decisions around future dates or location have been decided at this time, and we look forward to sharing our thoughts in the coming days.”

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Love is in the air at these Valentine’s events around North Texas

Love is in the air at these Valentine’s events around North Texas

Swap out those roses for one or more of these fun things to do on Valentine’s weekend. You can enjoy V-Day with a sweetheart, a friend or all by your swell self. Some events are outdoors, so check for any changes due to weather before you go.

‘LOVE AT LEGACY WEST’ POP-UP INSTALLATION

Smile pretty for a photo at this flower-filled installation at Legacy West. The Valentine’s-themed backdrop is open for free selfies all month, or book a professional mini shoot on Feb. 14 from 6 to 8 p.m. Additional Valentine’s pop-ups at Legacy West include Build Your Own Bouquet sessions at the Sand and Soil Flower Truck (Feb. 12-13, noon to 4 p.m.), a tasting of Latin American-tinged bonbons and confections from Maravilla Cacao (Feb. 12, noon to 4 p.m.) and a Kids Club DIY Valentine’s Day Cards craft (Feb. 12, noon to 3 p.m.). Check the website for more Valentine’s events and pricing.

The installation continues through Feb. 28, daily during shopping center hours at Legacy West, 5908 Headquarters Drive, Plano. Free for selfies. legacywest.com/events.

‘EL CORAZÓN’ EXHIBITION AT THE BATH HOUSE

This marks the 27th year for “El Corazón,” an exhibition curated by Jose Vargas and featuring a variety of works by North Texas artists. All the pieces are inspired by the human heart. An opening reception with music and more is planned for Feb. 12.

Through March 12, Tuesdays through Saturdays from noon to 6 p.m., with an opening reception Feb. 12 from 5 to 8 p.m., at the Bath House Cultural Center, 521 E. Lawther Drive, Dallas. Free. bathhouse.dallasculture.org.

Reunion Tower lights up for Valentine's Day.
Reunion Tower lights up for Valentine’s Day.

VALENTINE’S AT REUNION TOWER

Music and magic are happening at Reunion Tower’s observation deck. Saxophone player Alex Styer will set the romantic mood nightly Feb. 11-14. Magician Grant Price will also be on deck Feb.14. If you’re in the mood to pop the question from 470 feet above street level, book a Love Is in the Air package on Feb. 13-14. If you prefer to keep your feet planted on the ground, you can still look up after dark to see the twinkling lights on the Reunion Tower ball.

Feb. 11-14 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. (8:30 p.m. on Feb. 13-14) at Reunion Tower, 300 Reunion Blvd., Dallas. $9-$35 for ages 4 and older, free for ages 3 and younger; call 214-712-7040 for Love Is in the Air information. reuniontower.com.

Comedian Paul Varghese performs at Backdoor Comedy club.
Comedian Paul Varghese performs at Backdoor Comedy club.

CHAMPAGNE, CHOCOLATES AND COMEDY

For a lighter look at love, laugh along with Paul Varghese and Linda Stogner and a lineup of more Backdoor favorite comics. Your ticket to any of the three Valentine’s shows includes a glass of Champagne, a box of chocolates and a ticket to a future show at the Richardson comedy club. Call 214-328-4444 for reservations.

Feb. 12 at 7:15 and 9:45 p.m., Feb. 14 at 7:30 p.m. at Backdoor Comedy, 940 E. Belt Line Road, Richardson. $30. backdoorcomedy.com.

LOVE ON THE RUN RACE/WALK AND AFTER-PARTY

Get a healthy start to the weekend with a 5K run, 10K run or family-fun walk that winds through Las Colinas and returns to the Texas Lottery Plaza for a beer and pancake after-party. The event benefits the Irving Schools Foundation.

Feb. 12 at 8:30 a.m. at Toyota Music Factory, 300 W. Las Colinas Blvd., Irving. $15-$69.99 for participants, spectators and after-party. irvingmarathon.com/love-on-the-run-5k.

CHOCOLATE AND WINE WALK

Stroll through downtown McKinney and enjoy a day of wine and chocolate tastings and shopping with participating merchants. Your timed general admission ticket includes a souvenir wine glass, 10 wine samples and four chocolate samples. Plus there will be a bonus taste waiting for you at Lone Star Cellars (103 E. Virginia St., McKinney).

Feb. 12 from noon to 6 p.m. in downtown McKinney. $30-$45. eventbrite.com.

JUST THE GIRLS GALENTINE’S DAY AT GRANDSCAPE

Grab a group of gals for an afternoon of wine tasting, waffle bars, massages and DIY creations at the shops and restaurants of Grandscape. There’ll be shopping, pop-ups, live music and swag bags.

Feb. 12 from 1 to 5 p.m. at Grandscape, 5752 Grandscape Blvd., The Colony. $50 (alcohol-free)-$65. eventbrite.com.

RICKI DEREK VALENTINE’S SHOWS

Crooner Ricki Derek will turn up the romance during two evenings of classics by Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Bobby Darin and more. Doors open at 7 p.m. for the Feb. 12 show at Legacy Hall, where a spin on the dance floor is highly encouraged. Standing room and reserved table reservations were still available at press time. On Valentine’s Day, Derek is back for an 8 p.m. show at the Granada Theater.

Feb. 12 at 9 p.m. at Legacy Hall, 7800 Windrose Ave., Plano. Tickets start at $10. eventbrite.com.

Feb. 14 at 8 p.m. at the Granada Theater, 3524 Greenville Ave., Dallas. $25-$40. prekindle.com.

Stephanie Mills performs a Valentine's concert at the Music Hall at Fair Park.
Stephanie Mills performs a Valentine’s concert at the Music Hall at Fair Park.(Al Pereira / WireImage)

VALENTINE’S LOVE JAM

Grammy-winning vocalist Stephanie Mills and R&B group the Whispers take the stage for a Valentine’s concert of their biggest hits.

Feb. 14 at 7 p.m. at the Music Hall at Fair Park, 909 First Ave., Dallas. $55-$75. ticketmaster.com.