Show some ugly at Hermes Vineyards

Want to go?• WHAT: Fugly Sweater Concert with Scott & Dale• WHEN: 8 p.m. Feb. 19• WHERE: Hermes Vineyards and Winery, 6413 Hayes Ave., Sandusky • COST: Free• INFO: 419-626-8500In case there's an element of confusion regarding the ins and outs of the Fugly Sweater Contest taking place Feb. 19 at the Hermes Vineyards and Winery, Premise Manager Millicent Estep wants to make it clear."We're talking about an ugly sweater," Estep said. "It's just to draw some attention in the wintertime. We were trying to think of something creative to have fun in the downtime. And actually, we were trying to also attract a little bit of a younger age too, to let them know that wine is not stuffy. I think people tend to think at times wine can be stuffy and it's not. We have a great fun atmosphere here."To recap, a fugly sweater is a sweater that, well, has seen better days. That can either be from the fact that it's tattered or dated, as both are equally embarrassing and shouldn't be taken lightly.While Estep won't be eligible for the contest, you better believe this sweater-loving gal will be donning something downright fugly. "I have a hot-pink sweater with yellow and turquoise bows on it," Estep said. "It came from a Goodwill box. I had to search for it."Hmm — the fact Estep had to purchase something fugly means her own wardrobe closet must be fugly sweater free. Is that right? "Oh, I suppose so," she said. "I'm looking forward to seeing what people come up with. I suppose there will be sweaters out there that have the ducks going across the chest or are faded or worn with the little nubbies all over it."In case you need further clarification regarding fugly sweater criteria, look no further than inside the Hermes Vineyards and Winery. "I can tell you right now, we have some fugly ones hanging on our wall in here to promote the event," Estep said. "I have a pale pink and then a bright turquoise green sweater."Finally, does Estep have any words of wisdom?"Obviously don't go out and buy a new sweater," Estep said. "Also, make sure nothing matches." And the gaudier, the better — especially since the number of money-winning sweater wearers is directly related to the number of entrants. The Fugly Sweater Contest takes place at 8 p.m. Feb. 19 at the Hermes Vineyards and Winery, 6413 Hayes Ave., Sandusky. Music provided by Scott & Dale. Call 419-626-8500.