Boom Boom visits
Casey on Oct. 24-25

The Mahoning Valley may be many things, but it is never boring. The “Homeplate” crew has been busy capturing the tastes and smells of our region.

The Speck Fry at the Saxon Club in Austintown stands out as a very memorable experience. Slabs of bacon grilled over a wood burning fire: What’s not to love? I’ll keep you posted on the date for next year’s event.

Ray Mancini was a total joy in the kitchen. “Boom Boom” is funny and shared so many L.A. stories; he seems to know everyone on the West Coast. Fortunately, Ray’s heart is still in Youngstown and he has great affection for his hometown. Watch the “Homeplate” segment when he prepares “Linguini Mancini.” It will air the weekend of Oct. 24 and 25.

The Stonebridge Tavern, formerly Rockne’s, is now open. Owner Bob Stevens has developed a great menu and wine list. Executive Sous Chef Jen Parella says “The Stonebridge Tavern offers casual American food with high quality ingredients. From seared tuna, or a full rack of ribs to innovative salads and sandwiches, there is something for everyone.” It is now open and serving lunch and dinner seven days a week. Ryan Ligotti is the executive chef.

Please join us at this year’s “Taste of the Valley.” It is being held from 5-8 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 11 at the Stambaugh Auditorium Ballroom. “Taste” benefits the Second Harvest Food Bank. “Homeplate” will be there along with our sponsors Vintage Estate Wine and Beer and Catullo Prime Meats. Phill Reda, owner of Vintage, will be serving samples of his beer ice cream and Danny Catullo will offer a variety of dried and smoked meats from his shop.

In this month’s Metro Monthly you will find an entry form for “Our Valley Cooks.” If you have a unique entrée, pasta or dessert, please submit your recipe. This wonderful event takes place March 6, 2010, at Mr. Anthony’s. It is a day filled with cooking demonstrations, food vendors, and a live kitchen stadium where the finalists will prepare their submissions. Melissa d’Arabian, the latest Food Network star, will be on hand to share some of her secrets. The event benefits Meridian Services.

Keep watching “Homeplate with Casey Malone.” Tape it, DVR it – just don’t miss it! It airs at 7 a.m. on Saturdays on WYTV and 11:30 a.m. on Sundays on MyYTV.

The Valley never tasted so good.