Former TV star Dick Smothers, the “favorite brother” of the famous Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour duo, will be appearing live at Lockport’s Spring Lake Winery Resort on Fathers’ Day.
“Mom always liked you best” was his brother Tommy’s familiar retort in the hugely popular CBS TV Network show of the 1960s.
Dick Smothers famously picked up many other pursuits following the show, donning a racing jacket and rocketing over 150 miles per hour with the Smothers Brothers Racing Team. When that stint passed, he took up the “love of the grape,” forming his own winery in California. He is now enjoying retirement in nearby Lewiston!
Smothers will be at Spring Lakes Winery Resort at 11:30 a.m. for a press conference hosted by Hall of Fame broadcaster Carl Russo. Russo is a car buff and used to race. He currently is host PA announcer at Lancaster Motorsports. He also is a first responder for a West Seneca volunteer fire company.
A specially produced wine will be uncorked for the first time at the Fathers’ Day presser. It is a German Riesling pressed from estate grapes grown at Spring Lake’s on-site vineyards. The dry varietal is aged in tequila casks, giving it a robust taste. Dominic Vallaro, vintner and co-owner with Tamre Vallaro, will lead tastings for the press and guest visitors at the Fathers’ Day event. It is also a celebration of Spring Lake’s 20th anniversary. Snacks and beverages will be served for the press event.
At noon, the car show will officially open. The site expects several hundred classic cars to be displayed on the grounds of the resort.
Additionally, there will be live music from Welcome Distraction starting at 2 p.m. The full menu from Spring Lake’s award-winning chef will be offered to attendees. Sweet Melody’s popular gelato truck will be there. There will be lawn games, line dancing (starting at noon) on the new patio overlooking the lake, Tinder Box cigars, wine slushies and more. For best seating, reservations are recommended by calling (716) 439-5253 or online at SpringLakeWinery.com.
Any classic car owner is encouraged to bring their vehicle for showing. Enter early at the resort at 11 a.m. to participate. There will be a $10 entrance fee for each vehicle. Awards will take place at the 4 p.m. judging. In advance, car owners can register at SpringLakeWinery.com and click on the “events” tab.
