I’m always partial to learn the stories of successful people who hail from the Bronx, my home borough, the place where I was born, educated and lived into my early 20’s.

One of these successful people is a theatre producer whose new book launches Jan. 31.

For anyone who is a fan of theatre and other kinds of entertainment, this book is for you. With Valentine’s Day coming up, it would also make a great VD’s gift for your special someone.

Check out Try Not to Hold It Against Me: A Producer’s Life, by stage and screen producer Julian Schlossberg. Thie autobiography takes the reader on his exciting career journey as he worked with icons of entertainment including Barbra Streisand, Liza Minelli. Sid Caesar and Orson Welles. Learn more and order the book.

And talking about Valentine’s Day, one of my favorite days of the year, it is always a pleasure to be treated to a wonderful meal and beverages.

My suggestion is to make a reservation for Feb. 14 at Etcetera Etcetera Restaurant,  a sexy and sleek restaurant, with a black and red color scheme located on West 44 Street between 8^th and 9^th Avenues.

This year, the special Valentine’s tasting menu, priced at $82.50 per person, features:

Appetizer:

Crepe purse with mushrooms on taleggio cheese fondue and savory blueberries

Pasta:

Handmade spinach farfalle (bowtie) pasta with lobster buzzara style (onions, tomatoes, white wine, breadcrumbs, and olive oil) sauce

Main:

Roasted duck breast with honey glaze, potatoes au gratin, roasted vegetables

Dessert:

Valentine’s sweethearts

Each menu item is also available a la carte and you can also choose from the regular menu.

For reservations: https://etcetcnyc.com/reservations/