HOWL July 2015

VOL. 2, NO. 7 JULY 2015

FREE

ZOMBIE LOVE Our neverending obsession with The Walking Dead

ART MONGERS

American Stonecraft revolutionizes farm-to-table

THE BIONIC MAN Wrestler Steve Chamberland steps up to help others walk, run and live again

BACKYARD BASH ON A DIME Grill tips from chefs Local music playlist Seasonal beer DIY party

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Pamela Wamala, Artist www.pamelawamala.com

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FEATURES 14 THE BIONIC MAN Former pro wrestler Steve Chamberland helps amputees get a new lease on life.

22 HEARTY HELLFIRE Local chefs dish out their favorite summer grilling tips.

32 EYE ❤ BRAINS A look into our culture’s never ending obsession with the undead.

28 ART MONGERS American Stonecraft revolutionizes farm-to-table.

CALENDAR 4 FOLK FEST HIGHLIGHTS Kristen Fiandaca’s picks for must-see acts at Lowell’s annual three-day party.

19 TOWER OF POWER Legendary booty-shakers bring tweaky rubber funk to Boarding House Park.

MUSIC & MORE 6 ON THE MARQUEE Blindspot scores concert bill with national headliners.

10 GROOVE FEST Hot New England bands to download for your summer playlist.

14 32 10

12 THE SCOOP Our sticky-fingered guide to 10 awesome ice cream stands.

24 THE BREW HA HA Resident beer tester Terry Badman handpicks the perfect summer six pack.

On the cover: Jaci DeRosa, stylist from Eyeful Beauty, shows off her other half for our Zombie feature.

Makeup by Eyeful’s talented Nikki Gauvreau.

Photo by Tory Germann.

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HOWL SOUND & SCENE www.howlmag.com EDITOR & PUBLISHER Rita Savard PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Jim Lichoulas III MANAGING EDITOR Sarah Hand MULTIMEDIA ART DIRECTOR Richard Francey DEPUTY ART DIRECTOR Mark Coletti ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR Terry Badman PHOTO & VIDEO EDITOR Tory Germann PHOTO Nancy Ho DESIGNERS Carl Johnson Amelia Tucker STAFF WRITERS Nick Tsui Victoria Wasylak Chris Flisher EDITORIAL INTERNS Allison Bush Nikkie Corzo Erika Weiser Kelly Hamill Kristen Fiandaca Zack Britten Lily Faulkner CONTRIBUTORS Nikkie Gauvreau, cover makeup Jaci DeRosa, cover model Chavvy Sinuon, style & design for “Backyard Bash” p. 26 Eric Hooker, photography Craig Michaud, photography Melissa Sgarlata EVENT DIRECTOR Heather Barker heather@howlmag.com TAP INTO OUR AUDIENCE ads@howlmag.com HEADQUARTERS Mill No. 5 250 Jackson Street, No. 404 Lowell, MA 01852 CONNECT WITH US hello@howlmag.com Proudly Published in Lowell, Mass. by King Printing

LOWELL FOLK FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

The 29th annual Lowell Folk

Festival returns July 24 _ 26, transforming downtown streets into one giant party with a vibrant selection of food, art and music from around the globe. Did we mention it’s free?

Here’s a round-up of acts that you don’t want to miss: SUPER CHIKAN AND THE FIGHTING COCKS

Rocking an array of hand-made instruments crafted from auto mufflers, rifle butts and boxes, front man James “Super Chikan” Johnson of Super Chikan and the Fighting Cocks isn’t your typical blues artist. Following his early beginnings of writing songs on the road, Chikan launched a musical career with the success of his debut album Blues Come Home to Roost, inspired by the likes of Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker, and Chuck Berry. With a sound that’s drenched in the tradition of the Mississippi Delta, Super Chikan and the Fighting Cocks turn out tunes that blend traditional with modern blues.

ADONIS PUENTES & THE VOICE OF CUBA ORCHESTRA

Groove along to the hip-shaking songs of Grammy-nominated singer and bandleader, Adonis Puentes and his 10-piece orchestra. Puentes has toured with the likes of Irakere veteran Maraca Orland Valle and performed at Lincoln Center in New York City, where he shared the stage with Latin musicians Larry Harlow and Ruben Blades.

With horn-driven rhythms, deep baselines, and melodic piano and guitar, Adonis Puentes & The Voice of Cuba Orchestra will make you want to get up and dance.

FUN IN THE SUN

Something for Everyone Face Painting | Family Fun 4 | HOWL Magazine | howlmag.com

by Kristen Fiandaca

THE ORIGINAL PINETTES BRASS BAND

The all-female brass band led by snare drummer Christie Jordain, formed in the music program at St. Mary’s School in New Orleans 25 years ago. The 10-piece group emerged victorious during Red Bull’s 2013 Street Kings Competition in New Orleans — the first women ever to do so. These ladies rock their horns and churn out high-energy, brass-kicking tunes like the force of a hurricane.

BASSEKOU KOUYATÉ & NGONI BA Afro-rock has never sounded so good. Malian heavyweight, Bassekou Kouyaté is a master of the ngoni, a traditional lute found throughout West Africa. In Kouyate’s 2015 album Ba Power, he takes the ancient four-string instrument into new territory giving fans a supercharged allowing sound fueled with distortion and wah-wah pedals.

ALICIA SVIGALS’ KLEZMER FIDDLE EXPRESS Get ready to have your mind blown by a bolt of lightning in the form of a fiddle that has inspired collaborations with the likes of violinist Itzhak Perlman, the late poet Allen Ginsberg, and rockers Robert Plant and Jimmy Page. Svigals commands her instrument with depth, urgency and ethereal beauty.

For a complete lineup of world beats, entertainment and local bands, visit the calendar at howlmag.com

SHAKE YOUR “BRASS”

Pinettes Brass Band

FOLK FEVER

Lowell Folk Festival Downtown Lowell June 24-26 | FREE

Ba Power

Bassekou Kouyaté & Ngoni Ba A master of the ngoni

FIDDLE EXPRESS Alicia Svigals Fiery Fiddle Playing

howlmag.com | HOWL Magazine | 5

ON THE MARQUEE BLINDSPOT SNAGS BILLS WITH NATIONAL HEADLINERS

By Victoria Wasylak

T

here’s nothing quite like debuting your new single to a crowd of people gathered to see a national headlining act.

In May, Lowell band blindspot played their latest release, “I Won’t Let Your Heart Break” to a leather-clad audience awaiting Buckcherry in the smoky chambers of the Claddagh Pub in Lawrence.

“It’s definitely exciting to open for someone with a big name like that,” lead singer Alexa Economou said.

If opening for a national headliner is a band milestone, then blindspot has just begun a rigorous marathon.

Over the past year, the three college students have opened for Gin Blossoms, Puddle of Mudd, Scott Weiland of Stone Temple Pilots, and most recently, Buckcherry at the Rock the Block Festival.

“I think that we have grown a lot from our first shows at small local clubs and dive bars – which we still play – but to be able to have the chance to open for big names like this, it’s really a big step for us,” Economou said.

The Lowell band, made up of lead singer Alexa Economou, drummer Adam Miller, and guitarist/ keyboardist Chris Cormier, channels the intense likeability of influential rock bands like treasured oldies U2 and Aerosmith to modern chart-toppers Neon Trees and Muse.

On the local scene, the band has been charging ahead like Andretti behind the wheel of a ’67 Mustang, speeding across the desert. From winning a battle of the bands in Manchester that earned them a spot on the bill with Puddle of Mudd to working with promoter New England Concerts and taking voice lessons, the band has made intense efforts to, as Economou says, “grow as big as we can.”

Part of that growth means the band constantly updates their self-titled EP with new singles as a way to save money and promote their music more efficiently, rather than working on creating entire albums.

Photo by Craig Michaud 6 | HOWL Magazine | howlmag.com 6 | HOWL Magazine | howlmag.com

“A lot of people don’t even notice,” Cormier “We choose singles because it’s so much easier to promote one song at a time, rather than added.

10 songs,” Economou said.

While the band has gotten some mixed And you could say, in this band’s case, size feedback about their lack of a bass player, doesn’t matter. With a pay-what-you-can policy blindspot isn’t rushing into hiring a new one. for their music, Blindspot tries to appeal to local “A lot of professional bands use backing audiophiles, regardless of how much they have tracks, so it’s nothing we’re ashamed of,” in their wallets.

Economou said.

“We try to do a single a season,” Cormier said.

Besides playing the guitar and keyboard, Cormier is also the shy brain behind the backing tracks and mastering of the band’s songs. As a sound recording student at UML, he has all the necessary equipment and know-how to record the band’s music exclusively at his house.

Local DJ Frank DeSimone of Frank FM can’t help but agree. The band caught the eye and ear of DeSimone in 2013 when Economou submitted the song “Nacho” to him for airplay consideration, and blindspot has been on his local radio show since then.

“It was hard not to hear the raw talent and powerful voice Alexa had even back then,” he said of his first impression of the band. With DeSimone’s help, the band molded and improved their sound, and went as far as remixing their song “Mr. Right” to make it more radio-friendly “I really pushed this kid,” Economou said, for DeSimone’s show.

“I’m always very truthful and open with my nudging Cormier. “ ‘Can we get the bass on the computer? What can we do?’ So he stayed up all feedback. Alexa always listened and used my night and did all of our backing tracks with the critiques in a positive way,” DeSimone said.

“I think that goes a long way to showing how bass to our set. Now that’s what we do. ” hungry they are for success.”

The backing tracks that Cormier produces became a key part of the band’s live sound when blindspot lost their bass player the day before they competed at – and won – the Battle of the Bands at Jewel Nightclub in Manchester, N.H..

See blindspot live Sun. July 5, opening for Hoobastank at the Jewel Nightclub, 61 Canal St. in Manchester, N.H., and again on Sun. July 12 at the Hard Rock Café, 22-24 Clinton St., Boston.

Hear blindspot and download music at soundcloud.com/blindspot_official

Photo byMagazine Eric Hooker howlmag.com | HOWL |7 howlmag.com | HOWL Magazine | 7

photos by Tory Germann

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By Victoria Wasylak & Rita Savard

POP & HISS

HOMEGROWN NEW ENGLAND BANDS

A PARTY-WORTHY SUMMER PLAYLIST OF

Annabel Lee (formerly Sarah Borello) channels a hurricane on her new track “Melting” from the slow, pensive rhythm of the song to ominous lyrics like “If only you could see the trouble you’re in,” the tune builds like a budding thunderstorm and transforms into a chaotic tempest of bottled-up emotions by the end of the track. And that’s only the beginning of her EP “Prey” – you can imagine how ravenous the rest sounds.

As the latest edition to their self-titled EP, blindspot’s new tune “I Won’t Let Your Heart Break” is a crisp pop-rock ballad about pursuing a lost love.

“When you walk on by / Tell me how it feels to be alive” lead songstress Alexa Economou cries, her raw, robust vocals suggesting that she’s been crooning for decades, when in reality, she’s not even 25.

If you’re looking for some motivation to start working out again, pop in Bobby Drinkwater’s solo tune “Culture Shock” for a Four-Loco dose of energy.

Because the instrumental number pays homage to 80s-style shredding and hair metal, it begs for action shots of athletes in tracksuits dripping in sweat. The intensity of the kick drum gives the fidgety tune a stuttering heartbeat effect that’ll motivate even the most lethargic couch potato.

Disco is back and Peter Lavender’s new album Sugar — flavored with some sweet ‘60s and ‘70s retro soul and spiked with a little bit of funk and R&B — is going to make sure you feel the groove. Standout track “Time Warp” isn’t the first song with a title to try and defy the forces of nature, but owing to its funky wah wah guitar and insistent horn section, it’s one best for some serious booty shaking.

Okay, so call it one of my nine personalities popping up, but it’s gotta be free to run wild and admit it freakin’ loves all this white rap coming out of Maine.

Mid-life crisis? I don’t know how to explain it. But I do know the groovy beats of P. Dank Cypher — an opus featuring the talents of Spose, Lady Essence, Cam Groves, Ock Costeau, and Shane Reis — should have a place on everyone’s summer playlist. And while I’m at it, I’ll recommend Spose’s “Pop Song”, and Lady Essence’s “Take a Jog.” Actually, I just want to hang out and drink whiskey with Essence.

Her rhymes are smart and completely catchy. If you know her, please tell her she has an open invitation to a barbecue in Lowell, Mass. anytime she feels like it. Word.

Jenny and The Gents stand out for their beauty

and simplicity, keying in on the breezy vocals of lead singer Jenny Riddle. Track “Salisbury Beach” gets the nostalgia machine in motion and is a perfect song for sunny day drives with the windows rolled down. Check out more of their tunes on reverbnation.com and we guarantee you’ll be lost in the melodies for days on end.

10 | HOWL Magazine | howlmag.com

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OUR STICKY-FINGERED GUIDE TO 10 AWESOME ICE CREAM STANDS By the HOWL Street Team

BEDFORD FARMS 66 Thoreau St., Concord | Soft-serve enthusiasts rejoice! This long-running ice cream stand churns out more than 60 flavors to suit your tastebuds. While there’s no shortage of flavor options in soft or hard styles, we recommend their award-winning vanilla because it’s decadently rich, creamy and sometimes a body just needs a heaping sugar cone dripping in rainbow sprinkles (or jimmies for all you die-hard New Englanders). bedfordfarmsicecream.com BENSON’S 181 Washington St., Boxford |Farm-to-table never tasted so sweet. Strawberries, raspberries, peaches, blueberries, apples and blackberries are all harvested from local farms and blended into Benson’s creamy treats. Availability on these flavors is limited to each fruit’s growing season. It doesn’t get any fresher than that. So what are you waiting for? Get down there and savor summer’s bounty before it’s gone for another year. And tell them HOWL sent you. Xo. bensonsicecream.com DOLCE FREDDO GELATO 300 Merrimack St., Methuen | This Italian cousin of ice cream, which sports a lower fat content, is made fresh daily in small-batches at Dolce Freddo. The cozy shop also boasts a dizzying selection of out-of-thisworld flavors like vanilla figs, tiramisu, and a wonderful transformation of the sainted cannoli aptly named Holy Cannoli — Bellissimo! dfgelato.com KIMBALL’S 400 Littleton Rd., Westford | For those who need a couple scoops of adventure along with their sundae, the Westford outpost of this popular ice cream stand is also famous for having bumper boats, grilled food, a small animal farm, batting cages, country store, espresso bar and hands-down one of the best mini golf courses in New England. Oh yeah, and there’s the ice cream — you can fill up on a kiddie size cup and the banana split is big enough to feed a family of four. kimballfarm.com SHAW’S 195 New Boston Rd., Dracut | Another local hot spot that has been churning out creamy, classic flavors for generations, Shaw’s is a landmark working-farm that truly loves and cares for its cows. Maybe that’s why their homemade ice cream is so damn tasty. We love the apple strudel ‘scream, salted caramel and coffee Oreo. The farm store is also a great place to pick up locally sourced products from honey to beer soap, and, if you’re a fan of chocolate, Shaw’s chocolate milk is arguably the best in the world. shawfarm.com 12 | HOWL Magazine | howlmag.com

RICHARDSON’S 156 South Main St., Middleton | For many who worship at the altar of delicious frozen treats, it doesn’t get any better than Richardson’s. Owned and operated by a dairy farming family that has been in business for more than 300 years, it’s safe to say they have mastered the art of the perfect ‘scream. Try their old-fashioned Frozen Pudding, a rum based ice cream with raisins, pineapple, maraschino cherries, apples and peaches. The fresh fruit sorbet is a nice option for friends who can’t do dairy, and, if you prefer drinking your ice cream, the frappes are otherworldly. richardsonsicecream.com SULLY’S 55 Graniteville Rd., Chelmsford | A classic New England stand without frills or promises of artisanal frozen treats. Just honest to goodness ice cream that your grandma would serve, only better. This is old-school recipe ‘scream that is beyond solid where it counts — the flavor factor.

SULLIVAN’S 176 Middlesex Rd., Tyngsboro | Cue the sugar whisperer, a.k.a. Sullivan’s, where ice cream mongers flock from far away to sample thick, rich and creamy flavors like purple cow (black raspberry with white chocolate chunks), Kaluha fudge brownie, and white chocolate caramel latte. And we have to mention the coffee frappe, which is nothing short of nirvana in a cup. sullivanfarmsicecream.com SNOWDAES 1079 Westford St., Lowell | We all scream for ice cream but if you’re looking for a different kind of frozen treat, you’d be depriving yourself if you didn’t try the ice cream/Hawaiian ice hybrid simply called “shaved snow” at Snowdaes.

This Taiwanese take on ice cream — delivered in ribbon-like layers — is light, rich, creamy and lower in fat than traditional ice cream. There’s also a long list of toppings for DIY flavoring and a rotating list of milkshakes and bubble tea. snowdaes.com WHITE FARMS 326 High St., Ipswich |Our favorite place for a Sunday drive, this is incredibly fresh-tasting ice cream made on site with premium ingredients and a seemingly endless menu of creative flavors like Outrageous (made with several variations of chocolate), peppermint stick and orange pineapple. A day trip here is also a two-fer because it’s down the road from the legendary Clambox fried clam shack. Dear God, bring the defibrillators. Quick! whitefarmsicecream.com

photos by Tory Germann

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EYE OF THE TIGER

50 LEGS HELPS LOCAL AMPUTEES RECLAIM THEIR LIVES

By Melissa Sgarlata | Photos by Tory Germann

K

im Paquin admits her prosthetic leg sometimes falls apart. Her ankle is slightly detached, there are holes in her knee, and for as long as she can remember she’s placed her stump directly into a socket without having a cover to protect her skin.

They’re all avid hockey fans and this summer Paquin will accompany Rob to Niagara Falls with the boy’s hockey team he coaches.

“But I’m lucky to have what I have,” she says.

She has never been able to afford a quality prosthetic leg. When asked about that, she answers in her typical sunny-side manner, “there’s always someone out there who probably needs it more.”

Paquin, who lives in Lowell, isn’t one to complain even though health complications have been a non-stop roller coaster ride since she was 12.

That was the age she lost most of her left leg to bone cancer. Her teen years that followed were spent in and out of hospitals for chemotherapy treatments that would eventually take a toll on her heart, requiring her to wear a pacemaker.

“I still have fun,” she insists warmly. “I do my thing. I live life like everyone else.”

Steve Chamberland is big, broad, and bald with a blond goatee and dark tattooed sleeve down his right arm. Despite the somewhat gruff exterior, his blue eyes well up with tears when he talks about the amazing people he’s met over the years.

Life, she says, is filled with challenges.

Instead of dwelling on the bad parts, she But he’s quick to tell you he wasn’t always pours her energy into the things that bring a softie. A Lowell native who grew up in her joy — her husband of 25 years, Rob, and Tyngsboro, Chamberland claims in his her daughter, Nicole, who just graduated younger years he drank too many beers, got high school.

14 | HOWL Magazine | howlmag.com

into some wild fights and used to be, well, kind of a “shit head.”

Rucker’s hometown. After hearing her story on national news, Chamberland decided to present Rucker with a new Then lightning struck. On Memorial Day weekend in 1999, he was out riding prosthetic leg at the store opening. his Fat Boy motorcycle in Dracut and “She was crying — everyone was crywas hit by an oncoming truck. His right ing,” remembers Chamberland. leg was severed when it got wedged in He gave Rucker a colorful prosthetic between the metal of the Dodge Ram’s inside a pink sneaker. But he wasn’t off grill. the hook that easy. Rucker had tough

“It just snapped right off,” he recalls questions and told her mother she matter-of-factly, in between bites of needed to talk to “Mr. Steve.” chicken wings and crab rangoon at Chi- “That’s when it got real,” Chamberna Maxim in Dracut, a restaurant not land says. far from the site of his accident.

When the young girl asked, the forChamberland, who played amateur mer wrestler talked to her about phanhockey, baseball and semi-pro football tom limb pain and explained that even for the Granite State Warriors and though there will be bad days, life will Leominster Lions, was also in training be great if you work at being great. for competitive wrestling three weeks After meeting with Rucker, Hart prior to the accident. didn’t beat around the bush with the He made a vow to himself and was truth. determined to continue wrestling with “He (Hart) said, ‘you make a decision one leg. about what you’re going to do from this In 2002, he was hired by World Wres- day forward,’” Chamberland says. “He tling Entertainment (WWE) with the told me to ‘suck it up and stop being a stage name “Steve the Freak.” Seven little bitch.’” days after being hired, he was let go and The combination of meeting Rucker replaced with another wrestler who and Hart’s tough love lit a fire under also had one leg. The reason for his Chamberland, propelling him to start dismissal, he adds, has never been clear 50 Legs, a charitable organization to him. which earned 501c3 status in 2013.

“I guess they hired the wrong one“God makes people special for differlegged guy,” Chamberland says. ent reasons,” says Chamberland, who After leaving WWE, he spiraled into believes he was meant to lose his leg. a deep depression, a depression he He pauses, and then ponders aloud describes as much worse than when he about tracking down the other driver actually lost his leg. from his accident to thank him. Be“I just gave up on life,” he admits. cause, says Chamberlain, losing his leg He was living in Florida at the time has made him a better person. and immersed himself in competitive shot put while trying to find direction.

In 2011, he caught the story of Anaiah Rucker on The Today Show.

The nine-year-old Georgia girl was walking her sister to the school bus when a truck came barreling toward them. She pushed her sister out of the way to safety, but was hit by the truck.

Rucker survived the accident but lost her leg, a kidney and suffered from a broken neck and injuries to her spleen.

Friday, June 19 was the day after Kim Paquin’s 44th birthday. She was volunteering for Micky Ward’s Charity Golf Tournament at the Four Oaks Country Club in Dracut. Her being seated next to Chamberland was no accident.

everyone was seated in the banquet hall, it was revealed that Chamberland had flown in specifically to present Paquin with a new, state-of-the-art prosthetic leg.

A shocked Paquin couldn’t hold back the tears.

“I feel unbelievably loved – there’s just no words to explain,” Paquin said in a phone interview afterward. “Just how many people who were involved that we knew, and they all kept it from me.”

Her husband, Rob, and their friends from Team Micky Ward Charities reached out to Chamberland for help in getting Paquin the kind of high quality prosthetic that would change her life for the better.

“It couldn’t have happened to a better person,” Chamberland says. “We all had tears.”

Since its inception, the Tampa-based 50 legs has helped 68 people receive a new prosthetic. The recipients range in age from 10 months to a 72-year-old Vietnam Veteran named Conrad. Their stories vary from horrific boating, Jet Ski, and lawn mower accidents to bone cancer. Almost always, they ask Chamberland the same question: Am I ever going to be normal again?

Celeste Corcoran was standing with her daughter Sydney and husband Kevin outside of Marathon Sports, trying to get a glimpse of her sister Carmen crossing the Boston Marathon finish line. Carmen, fortunately, wasn’t close when the bomb went off.

Celeste wasn’t so lucky.

“I remember everything,” she says. “It was horrific.”

After the explosion, Kevin rushed to help his wife. They didn’t see Sydney and thought, that in the commotion, she had been pushed farther away and was safe.

“He would walk by me and look at my leg and say ‘that thing’s a piece of shit,’” “I tried to look down at my legs and Paquin laughs. “He was teasing me all remember seeing my foot at an odd day.” angle, said Corcoran. “I said, ‘is my foot Chamberland, along with pro wrestler Little did she know that Chamberland attached to my leg,’ and it was, barely, was a man on a mission. And she was Sean “X- Pac” Waltman and wrestling and Kevin said ‘yes.’ He knew when he his target. manager Jimmy “The Mouth of the saw my injuries that my legs were going South” Hart, was attending a friend’s Following the golf tournament, when to have to be amputated.” store opening in Greensboro, Ga. near howlmag.com | HOWL Magazine | 15

Although her parents couldn’t see her, Sydney was still close by. Her left leg was sliced open and her right foot, severely injured. Pieces of shrapnel from the blast tore into her right thigh and embedded in her femoral artery. She almost bled to death on the street.

Her “heroes” were Zach Mione and Matt Smith, who were inside Marathon Sports during the blast and rushed out with T-shirts. Zach tied a T-shirt tourniquet around her leg and Matt held his hand inside her leg to try and stop the blood flow, Corcoran said.

Corcoran and her daughter were brought separately to Boston Medical Center, not realizing at first that the other was injured or even in the same hospital.

“We were being intubated side by side and didn’t even know it,” Corcoran says. “Her (Sydney’s) vascular surgeon didn’t think she was going to make it. She was on her way out.”

regain a sense of normalcy.

Sydney survived and after multiple surgeries, is now able to walk.

Corcoran had both legs amputated. Her right leg was amputated above the knee, and her left leg was amputated below the knee. After weeks of rehabilitation she received her first set of prosthetic legs.

“Steve has the biggest heart,” Corcoran says. “He gave me my life back.”

“They were horrific and archaic,” said Corcoran. “I felt so discouraged and absolutely crippled — nothing could be worse than this.”

Her prosthetics were so old that while attending an amputee conference, another amputee walked up to her and said he had the same prosthetic legs in 1975.

The older prosthetics were also frustrating to put on and Corcoran used to break out into a full sweat trying to attach the leg to her knee.

“It looks like a huge screw where your knee would be. You would line up a screw with your leg, if you get it in right, it does this click,” she explains.

Chamberland was her ray of hope.

Corcoran, like all 50 Legs recipients, was flown to Orlando, Fla. to be fitted for a custom quality prosthetic by Stan Patterson, owner of Prosthetic and Orthotic Associates, which partnered with 50 Legs to bring a better quality of life to each patient. The company also has several employees who are amputees.

With acute attention to detail, Patterson fitted Corcoran with new, life-changing legs.

“It was the difference between walking and not walking,” Corcoran says. “It wasn’t easy and it hit me like a slap in the face — how hard this was really going to be.”

A hairstylist on Newbury Street, she is now able to stand and work a couple days a month, trying to

Steve Chamberland and Kim Paquin

16 | HOWL Magazine | howlmag.com

“We’re just trying to heal,” says Corcoran, who, like Chamberland, is committed to helping other amputees have access to the best possible prosthetics.

Tiffany Willis, who oversees fundraising, operations and marketing for 50 Legs, describes Chamberland as the kind of person who “will give the shirt off his back for anyone.”

Chamberland, who continues to work on growing the organization, says he couldn’t do any of it without his partners, which include Angel Flights New England, a non-profit that provides free flights for people who need medical care, and the Rosen Hotels. Both organizations offer their services for free to 50 Legs recipients.

In November, Paquin will be flown to Orlando with Rob, where she’ll be fitted for a new leg, the cost of which is being supported by Team Micky Ward Charities and 50 Legs.

“I can’t imagine what it looks like, or how it’s going to feel,” Paquin says.

Chamberland assures her she’s going to feel like “a new woman.”

Her wish is to join Rob and Nicole on their mountain hikes. Throughout the years her husband and daughter have hiked at various spots in New Hampshire, Maine and Vermont, while she stayed home.

“I just want to go on one hike with my husband,” Paquin says. “I want to climb a mountain with him.”

The 4th Annual 50 Legs Charity Golf Tournament tees off Monday, July 27, at Four Oaks Country Club, 1 Clubhouse Lane, Dracut. For more information, to make a donation, or volunteer, visit www.50legs.org

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CALENDAR

J U L Y 2 Thursday First Thursday > Kickstart the weekend with live music, art, shopping and dining deals. On the first Thursday of every month downtown Lowell buzzes with art mongers.

Check out the full list of galleries and boutiques opening their doors for exploring and shopping 5-9pm at cultureiscool.org.

5 Sunday

9 Thursday

The Wood Brothers > Foot-stompin’ Americana blues by brothers Chris and Oliver Wood, and multi-instrumentalist Jano Rix play under the stars at Lowell Summer Music Series. Special guests: Tall Heights. 7:30pm | Boarding House Park, 40 French St., lowellsummermusic.org

Farm Market > Join the locavore movement every Sunday at Mill No. 5, where you’ll find everything from fresh picked produce to meats, dairy, baked goods and organic products from the region’s independent farms. 10:00am-2:30pm | 250 Jackson St., 4th fl., Lowell millno5.com

Bob Marley > One of the most popular and sought-after comedians in the country, Marley uses biographical and observational material for his high-energy routines 6 Monday and has toured all across the US. $25-$40. 5:30pm doors open, 7:30pm showtime | The Bull Run Restaurant, Buck-a-Shuck > Get food hap- 215 Great Rd., Shirley, MA py 3-6pm every Monday at bullrunrestaurant.com Moonstones when fresh New England oysters are $1 each.

Outdoor patio is now open. 185 Chelmsford St., Chelmsford moonstones110.com

Concert Gallery at Heritage Farm > Take in a free outdoor concert at the Sampas Pavillion in Lowell every Monday this summer. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets, pack the family into the car, and enjoy a fun night out just like the old days. 7pm | Heritage Farm Ice Cream, 163 Pawtucket Blvd, Lowell heritagefarmicecream.com 18 | HOWL Magazine | howlmag.com

Motel Rasdell: A New Musical > Step into the world of the Motel Rasdell, the sleaziest but most lovable motel this side of the Charles River.

Featuring a jazzy and quirky score reminiscent of the late 1940s setting, Motel Rasdell tells the underdog story of love, forgiveness, and the true meaning of family. $40-$50.

9pm-11pm | Lowell Memorial Auditorium, 50 E. Merrimack St., Lowell lowellauditorium.com

10 Friday

Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo > This dynamic duo plays Lowell Summer Music Series, giving fans a dose of pop rock hits and new originals. $49 in advance, $50 day of show.

7:30pm | Boarding House Park, 40 French St., Lowell lowellsummermusic.org

The Beach Boys > Celebrate the summer with a Beach Boys’ concert at Hampton Beach Casino. The band has created countless hit singles and has changed the musical landscape profoundly. Few acts can match The Beach Boys’ concert presence, spirit and performance.

18+ show. $30-$70. 6pm doors open, 8pm showtime | 169 Ocean Blvd., Hampton, N.H. casinoballroom.com

The Green River Festival > One of the summer’s best fests, packing in over 40 bands into three-fun filled days at Greenfield Community College. Live performances from The Wood Brothers, Steve Earle & The Dukes, Punch Bothers, Elephant Revival, Lydia Loveless and many more. While you’re there, take one of the festival’s hot air balloon rides and get a bird’s eye view of all the action. $20-$50 | 6–11pm 1 College Dr., Greenfield, MA greenriverfestival.com

18 Saturday Moxie Festival > A three day festival in honor of the beverage that was first invented and mass produced in Lowell, Mass. and has a cult following throughout New England. Moxie is closely associated with the state of Maine because its creator, Dr. Augustin Thompson, was born there. Music, entertainment, food, fireworks, carnival games and loads of Moxie will be on tap. 4pm | 18 School Street, Lisbon Falls, ME moxiefestival.com

12 Sunday

Lowell Walks> On Saturdays this summer, a community volunteer will lead a walk around downtown Lowell with each walk emphasizing a different aspect of the city’s heritage, culture or history. Each walk begins at the Lowell National Park Visitor Center and will last approximately 90 minutes. Tours are free and require no advance registration. 10 – 11:30 am Lowell National Park Visitor Center, 246 Market St., Lowell

19 Sunday Backyard River Fest > Relax, play

and shop at the Tsongas Center’s open air market and free concert along the Merrimack River. 10am – 5pm | 300 Martin

Luther King Jr. Way, Lowell | tsongascenter.com

14 Tuesday

Gallery Talk > The artists of

“Journeys: 13 Perspectives” will be hosting a gallery talk at The Brush Art Gallery and Studios.

This exhibit includes a wide spectrum of diverse media and artistic expression. 1-3pm | 256

Brimfield Antiques Show > Market St., Lowell thebrush.org The site of the largest outdoor 22 Wednesday antiques show in New England comes around three times a year and is a great place for finding all things vintage and out of this ordinary like a ’60s croquet set, an atomic green chair, plenty of books, clothes, magazines and vinyl. 7am | 23 Main St, Brim- Dr. John & the Night Tripfield, MA | brimfieldshow.org pers > Six time Grammy winner and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Dr. John will be performing at The Bull Run 17 Friday Restaurant. Regarded throughout the world as the embodiment of New Orleans’ musical legacy, Dr. John has played on Chris Robinson Brotherhood records with the likes of Sonny > Two seats of psychedelic blues and Cher, Van Morrison, Aretha rock by The Black Crowes’ enig- Franklin and The Rolling Stones. matic singer Chris Robinson $75- $95. 5:30pm doors open, and his talented backing band 7:30pm showtime | The Bull at the Lowell Summer Music Run Restaurant, 215 Great Series. $32 adv., $35 day of Rd., Shirley, MA concert. 7:30pm | Boarding bullrunrestaurant.com House Park, 40 French St. lowellsummermusic.org

23 Thursday Jack Abbey Beer Dinner > Great food strategically paired with just the right beer from some of your favorite breweries.

Enjoy a five course meal paired with five beers for just $50. Educators & brewers will be on site to mingle and talk about their beers. All questions welcome!

The Innaugural Jack’s Abbey Beer Dinner in January sold out so make your reservations early. 6:30 pm | The Red Raven Gastropub, 3 Nagog Park Acton MA | redravenacton.com

Lowell Folk Festival > Mill City’s biggest party of the year is also the largest free folk festival in the U.S. with three days of live music, dancing, art, ethnic foodways and more surrounding several outdoor stages spread throughout historic downtown.

As usual, the 2015 lineup is filled with the best beats from around the world.

5pm | lowellfolkfestival.org

30 Thursday

Tower of Power > Booty-shaking, brass braying and tweaky rubber funk is what you can expect from this non-stop high energy and fun — with a capital “F” — live show at Lowell Summer Music Series. $38 in advance, $45 day of show. 7:30pm Lowell Spinners > Nothing | Boarding House Park, 40 says summer like taking in a French St., Lowell baseball game under a starry lowellsummermusic.org night sky. The Lowell Spinners, a minor league affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, will be facing the Auburn Doubledays. Be sure Gathering of the Vibes > Enter to hang in for the post-game jam band heaven at this summer fireworks show. Tix start at $7. music fest that manages to atGet the complete schedule at tract a lineup of players who do lowellspinners.com. 7:05pm it best including Weezer, Wilco, LeLacheur Park, 450 Aiken Gregg Allman, Tedeschi Trucks St., Lowell | lowellspinners.com Band, Sharon Jones and The Dap-Kings, Zappa Plays Zappa, Ben Harper, Ryan Montbleau, The String Cheese Incident and more. 1-3pm | 256 Market St., Lowell | thebrush.org

24 Friday

31 Friday

Newport Folk Festival >The festival where Bob Dylan fa- Josh Turner > Come see mously went electric for the first multi-platinum MCA Nashville time has one of the summer’s recording artist Josh Turner, best music lineups, but sells out one of country music’s most quickly because of it. This year, recognizable hit-makers. With a The Tallest Man on Earth, The rich, deep voice and distinctive Decemberists, Iron & Wine and style, Turner has sold more than Brandi Carlile are just some of 12 million units, is a disciple the reasons to get excited for this of traditional country music three day festival, not to mention and one of the youngest memone beautiful backdrop to all bers of the Grand Ole Opry. 18+ the happenings. Fort Adams show. $34-$60 | 6pm doors, State Park | 84 Fort Adams Dr., 8pm show | 169 Ocean Blvd., Newport, RI | newportfolk.org Hampton, N.H. casinoballroom.com howlmag.com | HOWL Magazine | 19 howlmag.com | HOWL Magazine | 19

HOROSCOPES Aries March 21-April 19 This may be a particularly vibrant and innovative period for you. Uranus is still in Aries and driving many of your most unusual and unexpected events and connections. Most of the activity that you encounter may in the form of fun or creativity. This highly charged time may bring great surprises your way in the form of creative ideas and children. While you may be bubbling over at the prospect of such hot fun in the summertime, be certain that you understand the dialog taking place.

This theme may be most predominant in your daily routine.

Neptune will be staring across the zodiac and may provide a shroud of confusion. In that foggy area you may also find just the creative angle you desire.

Leo July 23-Aug 22 You have been the beneficiary

Taurus April 20-May 20 The universe may be smiling

Virgo Aug 23-Sept 22 The benefic planet of Jupi-

Gemini May 21-June 21 How convenient that this

Libra Sept 23-Oct 22 You may find that group proj-

Cancer June 22-July 22 Plan to devote some time to financial matters this month. You may find that your attention is drawn towards money whether you want it to or not.

That doesn’t mean you’ll have to run and hide, just simply pay attention. You may be reviewing your investment portfolio or looking to re-arrange some of your holdings. The key to this situation may be the research that you put in before you make any decisions. With that in mind you may be best served if you put the effort into conversations with informed advisors. Perhaps the most important aspect during this period will be gaining clarity. When you are well informed you may be much more comfortable making financial choices.

Scorpio Oct 23-Nov 21 Expect to be fairly occupied with whatever activity you consider to be your occupation. Of course you may not be employed per se, but how you occupy your time is considered your occupation.

Whether you are caring for another person, doing odd jobs around the house, or simply minding your grand-children, those are the activities that may consume you. Mars, Venus and the Sun will light up that part of your life in the most pleasing manner. You may actually look forward to delving into all forms of work. Hobbies, helping friends, or doing community work may also figure quite prominently during this time. In all cases the most important aspect will be that you’ll be an eager and willing participant.

on you this month as family and children are all highlighted.

Look to new beginning for much of the action as these coming months unfold. These kinds of transitions are so meaningful especially when they concern family and all that is familiar to us. The child in you may be re-kindled as a new child enters the family or the young ones reach out to you over this period. While it may be important to do your duty to your primary relationships you may just as easily find the glimmer in the light of a sparkling set of eyes. This should be a fairly active month domestically so keep the refrigerator stocked for unexpected guests. month will spotlight your ability to communicate. Since you do that so well, you may be quite happy to have the added help of several planets in your correspondence sector. You may be ramping up for an event that requires your written proficiency and you may be quite willing and able for the task. Siblings may also figure prominently during this period as well so keep an eye on your phone or mailbox for news from them. You may find that this very active time provides you with an abundance of ideas, connections and new found friends even. The theme may be that of abundance and a nice buoyancy to lift your spirits.

20 | HOWL Magazine | howlmag.com

of Jupiter in Leo for roughly the past year. Jupiter can be a planet that represents abundance and optimism, but it can also amplify things for you. If that has been the case this past year at least you may now know why. All of the attention has not departed though as the Sun, Mars, and Venus will all gather in Leo over the coming weeks. All of this energy may prove to be quite lively for you and you may find yourself quite motivated and buoyant. As the proud Leo you may draw a lot of attention as you express your natural creativity and charisma. This may be a marvelous opportunity to stand out in a crowd.

ter will be stepping into Virgo for the first time in twelve years during this period. Jupiter will be in Virgo for about the next year, so it should be a good time to tackle large projects and begin new ventures. Jupiter provides expansion and good fortune often, so if you are in the midst of making a move or shifting your priorities, it may provide an excellent boost. Your ruling planet Mercury will also be joining the mix so it may be the perfect time for communicating or writing. Your keen sense of precision may be quite valuable under this influence which also means that you may be in peak form.

ects or events are the most satisfying and alluring during this period. Whether you are traveling en masse with others or engaged in a community project of some sort, the energy will be ideal for all such joint endeavors. You may find that cooperating with others comes quite easily under this influence. Venus and the Sun together shine a warm glow over all group activities for you and with Mars also along you may discover people with whom you share a great deal in common. This type of theme may work quite well especially on group tours or other adventures that allow you to interact with others.

BY CHRIS FLISHER Sagittarius Nov 22-Dec 21 Some of your most favorite pastimes may be favored during this period. With four planets lighting up your travel and adventure sector, you’ll be hard pressed to sit still. And why should you. The road may be calling and you may be eager to answer. The only limitation you may encounter is a strong compunction to help out and be there for others. While it may be admirable and responsible to chip in and lend a hand, you may also see the value in hitting the road. Travel may be a prize that may be hard won in that case, but you can always go on an arm-chair adventure through books movies, and lectures. As long as you find a way to stimulate that urge you may be satisfied.

Pisces Feb 19-March 20 The coming months may find you

focusing on your current daily lifestyle and all that may involve.

You may decide to opt for a new exercise or dietary regimen during this time. With a collection of planets gathering in that area of your life you may be particularly motivated to start new projects or adopt new habits that prove to be more beneficial to you in the long run. It may be worthwhile to note, that a new habit can be formed in roughly 3 weeks of steady focus. With a renewed sense of purpose and a willingness to change for the better you may be quite pleased with the outcome as long as you are prudent in your expectations.

Capricorn Dec 22-Jan 19 You may find the

coming period to be filled with legal topics and large organizational exchanges. And while that may sound ominous, you need not fret about your involvement. The law and all of its associations are there to protect, ultimately and you may be the beneficiary of this association. This same theme applies to genealogy and spirituality as well, so you may feel a deepening in your spiritual core. Research and investigation in all of these areas may be favored as you peel back the layers of self-discovery and seek insight. Since this area of your life also involves large organizations you may investigate universities, municipalities, and other similar entities which may fit perfectly with your timely inclinations.

make life a happy adventure Personal astrology consultations with Chris Flisher provides insight and guidance designed just for you with experience, confidentiality and integrity.

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lationship or partners may figure prominently in the coming months. Of course, one might argue that is always the case, but this period may be highlighted by a more intense association or focus with those close people. That does not imply problems, simply a more animated period of exchange between them and you. With so much focus on relationship topics you may be making plans together or discussing your options going forward. To be able to communicate honestly and effectively may be a great gift in the long run and you may find that the talks are quite constructive. If you are discussing financial matters, for example, you might gain some new-found clarity on the subject.

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Aquarius Jan 20-Feb 18 Your primary re-

call or visit to schedule a session 978.393.1036

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howlmag.com | HOWL Magazine | 21

HEARTY GRILLING TIPS FROM GREATER LOWELL CHEFS

By Zack Britten

GRILLED CAULIFLOWER WITH TURMERIC POWDER HEIDI FEINSTEIN founder & CEO of Life Alive Urban Oasis & Organic Café

PORK RIBS CHEF SCOTT PELLETIER from Fuse Bistro

22 | HOWL Magazine | howlmag.com

Grilling season is in full swing but it

doesn’t mean you have to use the same old tired techniques. We’ve tapped local chefs to help you spice up your presentation with quick, easy and delicious tips. So fire it up and get ready for the best barbequed meals this side of the backyard.

How it’s done: Cauliflower is an easy to grill and satisfying cruciferous veggie that punches an amazing anti-cancer whop. Add turmeric powder and you have a colorful, anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory medicine to accompany everything else you barbeque. Cut off the outer ends of the flowers so that you are able to slice one-and-a-half to twoinch thick cauliflower “steaks” leaving the stalk intact (it’s also delicious). Collect the loose flowers and use these too for the side. Make a paste with coconut oil, turmeric powder, pepper and salt — you don’t need much pepper and salt!

Always start with small amounts and keep adding a bit to your taste. Black pepper magnifies the therapeutic effects of turmeric. “Paint” your cauliflower with your orange paste.

Put on grill (I use a grill pizza pan to make sure none of the deliciousness falls through the cracks). Heat to your liking; they’re usually ready when the burgers are.

How it’s done: When I do get time to myself in the summer, it is best spent cooking over my fire pit in the backyard with family. My favorite BBQ dish is pork ribs. Ribs can be intimidating for the home cook if you have never prepared them before. They can be really tender, smoky and juicy when done right; too often they are dry and too charred.

To ensure they retain their moisture I recommend braising them for a few hours the day before with beer and spices in the oven. Letting them cool after this and before grilling, ensures they will be tender and moist. Before grilling add a dry rub. Often times cooks will add a BBQ sauce before grilling which is usually high in sugar and causes the outside of the ribs to burn instead of getting a delicious crust. To avoid the burn, brush with BBQ sauce five minutes before they leave the grill.

HELLFIRE CARAMALIZED CHICKEN THIGHS WITH VEGGIES CHEF SCOTT PLATH

from Cobblestones

GRILLED MAINE LOBSTER CHEF RICHARD BAKER from Marianos Ristorante and Bailey’s Bar & Grille

GRILLED SHISH KABOBS TEDDY PANOS

from Athenian Corner

How it’s done: For me every summer is spent cheffing outdoors, mastering perfectly charred, caramelized chicken thighs over blistering coals while “melting” lightly-salted and olive-oiled farmer’s market vegetables “low and slow.”

These items are great because they allow some margin for error if easily distracted, especially while sipping from a cold bottle of Navigation beer! Skin on or off, the thighs are my all-time favorite as they remain fork-tender. I prefer to sear skin-side down until charring begins, flipping them over to self-baste while finishing with a dose of a sweet and spicy BBQ-ginger-garlic-soy sauce, roasting to a sticky, bubbly glaze. Be prepared to move them around to cooler spots when they flare.

How it’s done: Place a pot of water on the stove to bring to a boil. The size of the pot will determine how many lobsters you plan on preparing. Put the lobster into the boiling water for three minutes then remove and place them into an ice bath that will stop the cooking process. Using a knife, split the lobsters in half and remove all the roe and place it in a small pot with butter, two cloves of minced garlic, one bunch of fresh parsley and one cup of white wine heating very low. Make sure your grill is hot and place each half of the lobster meat side down for thirty seconds then turn them over shell side down and ladle the butter and roe mixture over the lobster. That will baste and poach your lobster for three to five minutes depending on the size of the lobster. Then remove them from the grill, finish it with fresh lemon and its ready to be served.

How it’s done: The aroma of lamb, beef or chicken shish kabobs on the grill are guaranteed to make my mouth water.

Start by cutting the meat into 2-oz. cubes. Marinate overnight in olive oil, lemon, fresh garlic, salt, pepper, oregano & a hint of white wine. Skewer the meat with tomatoes, peppers & onions, then grill. My preferred cooking temp on the lamb & beef is medium rare, but medium or medium-well will also do. Obviously, well done on the chicken. Toss in some Greek salad, rice pilaf and lemon potatoes, and you have the perfect cookout meal. Don’t forget the Greek wine!

howlmag.com | HOWL Magazine | 23

THE BREW HA HA A perfect summer sixer

By Terry Badman

S

ummer is a time for playing outdoors, taking in the fresh air, and grilling various meats and veggies on charcoal-fed hellfire. Few things compliment these seasonal activities better than a cold pint of beer. These fresh, regional brews make the perfect mixed six-pack to get you through those hot summer days and nights.

BERLINER WEISS White Birch Brewing Company

SUNRISE SAISON Cape Ann Brewing Company

SUMMER ALE Navigation Brewing Company Lowell, MA:

Hooksett, N.H.:

This is a great alternative to all the watermelon and blueberry ales that pop-up each year. This beer combines the earthy, spicy qualities of Belgian farmhouse yeast, and pairs it with strawberries and rhubarb. The result is a refreshing brew with a very mild berry sweetness that balances well with the natural bitterness of the rhubarb. This is the fruit-based beer for those that hate fruity beers. You know who you are.

Lowell’s finest take the standard summer wheat beer and give it a makeover.

This unfiltered brew pours hazy golden blonde into a glass, and you’re immediately greeted with the aromas of fresh, juicy hops. This light-bodied brew goes down super easy, and the citrusy hops leave a long, lingering taste of grapefruit and melon across your tongue. Add this to your shopping list. Like, now. Do it.

This is probably my favorite beer for summer. Now available in glorious yellow-canned six-packs, this excellent little brew has established a permanent position in my fridge. A wild yeast strain gives this German-style ale a dry, tart, white grapefruit and lemon taste, which makes for the perfect thirst quencher on hot summer afternoons. Now get out there and grill some Alpine Butcher garlic-cheese sausage.

RASENMÄHER KÖLSCH Down the Road Brewery

MAINE ISLAND TRAIL ALE Rising Tide Brewing Company

Newton, MA:

Portland, ME:

PLUM ISLAND BELGIAN WHITE Newburyport Brewing Company

Sometimes you just want a super light, honest and no frills beer that goes down like water. And while there are plenty of mass-produced “lite” beers to choose from, the local guys can often give you better bang (and quality) for your buck.

This German-style Kölsch treads lightly with a delicate balance of malt and hops, leaving you with a super clean, crisp finish after every sip.

This beer is trail hiking in a bottle. Tons of floral and pine aromas greet you when you first pour this tasty brew into a glass, a product of the ample Citra and Simcoe hops used in the brewing process. Very light in mouthfeel but still managing to be extremely hop-forward in taste, this awesome sessionable pale ale tastes like a walk through the forest.

Gloucester, MA:

24 | HOWL Magazine | howlmag.com

Newburyport, MA:

Summer without Witbier is like cheese without crackers: You can survive the experience, but you’ll always be left wanting more. This Belgian-inspired ale pours a colorful cloudy straw body, with a ton of white foamy head that kisses the rim of your pint (or more appropriately, tulip) glass. Lots of citrus, spices, and coriander combine to make a great beer to toss an orange slice into.

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howlmag.com | HOWL Magazine | 25

10 EASY WAYS TO MAKE YOUR

YARD PARTY WORTHY Ah, summertime.

By the HOWL Street Team Photos by Erika Weiser

Close your eyes and you can smell the freshly cut grass, smoky barbecue and citronella. We love New England’s warmest months and how you can’t swig your hard lemonade without spilling on a great outdoor bash. But this year, why not throw your own? All you need is HOWL’s guide to simple do-it-yourself ideas, add friends and PRESTO! — you’ve got a backyard bash that’s fun, functional and best of all, super cheap on the fly.

Bring indoor comforts outside

Rugs, pillows, throws — all things you already have lying around the house make for a cozy conversation area outside.

Add creative touches like affixing a mirror to the outside of your house, or rolling out an old lamp. No patio set? No problem. Pull your inside chairs outdoors for the occasion and create a mini-living room.

Potluck

Ask each of your friends to bring a dish (doesn’t have to be fancy; think watermelon, tossed salad, chips and dip). You’ll not only save on food, you’ll also have more variety around the table.

Pick seasonal produce

Use the vibrant fruits and veggies of summer to your advantage. Plenty of local farm stands and farmers’ markets (like The Farm Market every Sunday at Mill No. 5, 250 Jackson St., Lowell), are filled with everything you need for a colorful and tasty salad centerpiece. Two simple salads we love: strawberries, blueberries, arugula, feta, pecans and avocado. And broccoli, baby spinach, mandarin oranges, blue cheese and cherry tomatoes.

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Game-on

We love backyard games like volleyball, cornhole, badminton, horse shoes, croquet and washers.

If you don’t have any of these, make your own games.

Grab a couple of same size crates (the kind clementines come in the grocery story will do), glue a couple of soup cans in the center and pick up a dozen flat washers from your local hardware store (about $1.80) and you’ve got yourself a game. Or borrow a folding table from a friend and get your beer pong on.

Rock the Mason jars

We love Mason jars because they are relatively inexpensive and there are endless uses for them.

Visit the dollar store

Any seasonal items you feel you need to buy, candles for ambiance or fun party favors (bubbles, water guns, hula hoops) are all a steal at the dollar store.

Use your own tableware

Ditch the paper plates and plastic cups. The dinnerware and glassware in your kitchen cabinets is reusable and gives the simplest gathering a more elegant vibe. Add colorful cloth napkins and your own silverware and you’ve got a laid-back summer table, ready for dinner with your homies.

A few of our favorite ways: •

Fill them with tea lights for an enchanting vibe after dark.

•

Fill them with lemon, rosemary and vanilla extract for a natural fragrance enhancer.

•

The no-brainer — serve drinks in them.

Make your own citronella candles with them. All you need is 100 percent cotton rope, citronella oil, a hammer and a screwdriver. Hammer the screwdriver through the lid (you can hammer two lids at once) to make your wick hole. Take your threestrand 100 percent cotton rope (nylon will melt and quit burning) and wrap the tip with tape to prevent fraying as you pass it through the lid. Pour oil into jar, about ¼ to 1/3 full. Screw lid into place and snip off taped tip with scissors. Let rope soak for about 10 to 15 minutes before lighting. Flame will burn high for a few minutes until wick burns down to the base of lid and appear like a regular candle burning — and mosquitos be gone.

Kick it old-school

Take your record player outdoors, and pile up the games everyone remembers from childhood — Monopoly, Trivial Pursuit, Twister, Pictionary, chess, cribbage, dominoes, etc.

Make your own oasis

Filling your deck or yard with plants creates a breezy boho vibe.

One of the best tips we learned was from our favorite local designer, Chhavy Sinuon of Style This Shindig, who suggested pruning the trees and bushes around your home and sticking the clippings in vases or mason jars with water.

Drink station

Create at least a couple separate spaces in your yard or deck. Set up your seating area for mingling, and make your food and beverage station separate. You can add an extra folding table and have guests help themselves, buffet style. If you don’t have a galvanized pail for drinks, pick up a plastic kiddie pool for under $10. Fill with ice and enjoy a cold one.

•

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By Erika Weiser

rom TV and movies to comics and sometimes, even our own city streets, it’s been raining zombies — and we can’t seem to get enough of them.

Next month, reanimating into fullflesh eating swing, comes Fear the Walking Dead, the prequel spin-off to AMC’s mega hit series The Walking Dead, which will explore how the zombie apocalypse all started in the first place.

Sure, you can go ahead and pick on The Walking Dead ‘til the cows come home for some gaping logic loopholes among other things.

But the fact of the matter is, the show is more popular than ever as season five broke records with the series’ highest ratings yet, making it the most-watched show in the history of basic cable.

And the show’s fan-geeky follow up, The Talking Dead, hosted by Chris Hardwick, is getting just as much attention.

So why are we so damn obsessed with the undead? Maybe it’s because in particularly tough times, the world needs a monster.

Over the past decade, vampires and werewolves have become too damn sexy. Instead of fearing them, we

want to date them. That leaves us with our poor lumbering, stinking and rotting cannibal corpse, giving us a reason to forge alliances with strangers and become heroes of the apocalypse.

Leo Burgess of Worcester won a series’ contest to be a “stumble-on walker” in the show’s second season.

“My favorite part of the day was the makeup process,” Burgess said. “I wanted to do movie makeup when I was younger. It was an amazing experience.”

A rabid fan of the undead, Burgess (read our Q&A) is getting revved up to watch some more z-wrangling in the August spinoff.

Fear The Walking Dead shows the zombie outbreak unfolding during those few months our Walking Dead hero, Rick Grimes, is in a coma (for those not in the know, the whole Walking Dead series begins with Grimes waking up inside a hospital, in the midst of a very different world).

And, at the end of the day, zombies are just good, clean (er, dirty), camp-tastic fun. I mean come on, what fan hasn’t wanted to be a zombie for a day and stumble around on set of The Walking Dead? For one lucky Massachusetts native, that dream became a reality.

BRAINS!

This new cast of characters, including Kim Dickens (Sons of Anarchy), Cliff Curtis (Missing), Alycia Debnam Carey (Into the Storm) and Elizabeth Rodriguez (Orange is the New Black), will be running around the streets of L.A. as the whole world is on the brink of disaster.

“It should be interesting to see where this all began,” Burgess said.

We think so too. Because the world needs zombies. They help us identify our demons, let us hone our survival instincts and conjure our inner badass.

But remember, if all else fails, run like hell.

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NAME: Leo Burgess AGE: 51 DAY JOB: IT Services at a college HOBBY: Photographer GO-TO ZOMBIE FILM: Shaun of The Dead

WITH LEO BURGESS: A REAL LIVE ZOMBIE

How did you land your role on The Walking Dead?

Leo: During the first season, in every episode, there would be a code word and at the end of the episode you would enter that code word on their site and be entered to win. The last episode of the season, I won.

Which episode were you in?

Leo: I was in season two, episode one. The name of the episode is What Lies Ahead.

Fan note: In the season two opener, Leo appears in the herd of zombies on the highway that send Sophia and Rick into the woods.

Did you kill anyone or were you killed by anyone?

Leo: No, unfortunately because I was unable to attend walker school, I wasn’t allowed to be up front so I did not kill anyone or get killed.

How did you prepare?

Leo: I wasn’t too sure on what I would actually be doing. I rewatched all of season one and studied the many zombies that were featured. I talked and watched the other extras on set and took inspiration from them.

How long did it take for you to be transformed?

Leo: It took less then an hour. The make up process was really cool. The whole look came together the second they put the contacts in.

Were you a fan of the show prior to being on it?

Leo: Well, the show hadn’t been running too long but the second I saw the first episode I was hooked. I knew this show was going to be a hit.

Did you meet any of the actors while on set?

Leo: I did, I met Steven Yeun (Glenn) and Jon Bernthal (Shane). Steven had found out that we were the winners of the Walk On Role Contest and came over to chat with us in between takes. We also saw Andrew Lincoln between takes.

Who is your favorite character on the show?

Leo: My favorite character changes all the time. I have been a Glenn fan from day one. He has always been one of my favorite characters. But this season I have really started to like Carol. She has just become such a strong character and has been quite crazy this season. I love it.

Why as a culture do you think we are so obsessed with the zombie apocalypse?

Leo: I think we all enjoy horror movies, and with special effects they are so much better than they once were.

I also think it’s the idea of a loved one coming back to life that attracts many.

What is the one thing you couldn’t live without in the end of the world?

Leo: I wouldn’t be able to live without my family. It would be too tough to go on without them by my side. I would also miss sushi quite a lot.

Weapon of choice?

Leo: I would use a hatchet. It would be the perfect weapon, with a super sharp side and a flat side.

If you were asked to come back on the show again, would you?

Leo: Absolutely. I would love to do it again.

How would “zombie you” go out the second time around?

Leo: Maybe by getting my head split down the middle. Something with cool special effects. I think I would want Michonne to be the one to do it.

Our local walker, Leo Burgess, in What Lies Ahead from the second season of AMC’s The Walking Dead.

howlmag.com | HOWL Magazine | 29

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howlmag.com | HOWL Magazine | 31

MAKING A MARK

American Stonecraft Revolutionizes Farm to Table Story by Kelley Hamill | Photos by Tory Germann

In a region where farmland produces more

rocks than crops, one man is helping farmers give the phrase “farm-to-table” a whole new meaning.

Gerald Corteau grew up in Groton. Surrounded by the sprawling stonewalls that cover much of New England’s countryside, he spent summers working for his family’s stone dealing business.

Stonework was in his blood and his backyard, but Corteau didn’t see the inside of a fieldstone until his early 20s while visiting family in New York. At the time, he was working as a consultant.

What he saw sparked a career change.

Inside the seemingly simple rock, lurked a work of art forged by nature and time — an incredible variety of patterns, from regular forms and straight lines to curves and waves.

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Through a tireless process of trial-and-error, Corteau taught himself the art of stonework without any formal training. Eventually he partnered with a local farm in New Hampshire, called the Ugly Udder. With the skill honed and the supply acquired, American Stonecraft was born.

But Corteau’s business is doing more than just producing beautifully handcrafted tableware. It’s a company with an important social mission.

In New England, there are many difficulties facing small family-owned farms.

“It’s tough to compete with commodity corn from the Midwest because we just don’t have the scale,” explains Corteau. “Those are 2,000 to 3,000-acre farms and most New England farms are four acres, or 10 acres, or maybe 30.”

Farms find it necessary to specialize in certain commodities in addition to fresh produce in order to survive and to keep people coming back.

American Stonecraft looks for farms not only to supply rocks, but with which it can forge an active partnership. Instead of paying the commodity price for the rocks, Corteau offers the partnered farms merchandise that it can sell. In this way, the farms can add to their business.

“It’s kind of like thinking of it as seed corn and we hope that they plant the seed. We give it to them and hope they sell it and they call us once they’ve tried it,” Corteau said.

“It’s like a no-risk offer.”

After the freeze-thaw of every New England winter, field stones push their way through the soil and farmers have to clear the land before planting. Over the years, machinery has made the process of gathering and moving stones easier.

But at one time, it was a laborious process done entirely by hand. The stones were stacked into walls, and, according to Corteau, there are now more miles of stonewalls in New England than there are miles from the earth to the moon.

Every stone is handpicked from farms and cut and polished in Corteau’s Lowell studio. Using custom-made diamond hand tools to slice and sculpt, American Stonecraft churns out unique food serving slabs, bowls and coasters. Each piece is then labeled with the farm from which the stone originated, and a web address that leads the buyer to a slideshow of the particular farm.

“We tell stories about cool farms, we support working farmers, and we help provide an extra source of income,” says Corteau.

By providing farms with another commodity to sell, Corteau hopes American Stonecraft can also help in reducing the number of farmers who need to sell off pieces of their land to survive.

Since launching his business five years ago, Corteau now works with a team of six artisans and services more than fifty farms throughout New England and New York.

American Stonecraft has also made shipments to 500 stores around the country, in every state but Alaska.

“I think of us as a lot of software companies think of themselves — as a startup,” Corteau said . “You put out the best product you can put out, you try it and see how it goes, and you then keep iterating.”

His products can be found in a wide variety of places ranging from small country stores, art galleries, and, soon, even Rodeo Drive. In late July, a small permanent kiosk will open in Boston’s first public market since the 1800s.

Until then, Corteau can be found out in the field searching for more stories just waiting to be unearthed.

“It’s cool to tell that story about why [stonewalls] are important, why they’re worth celebrating, why they’re worth preserving and really taking pride in.”

Learn more about American Stonecraft at: americanstonecraft.com

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&

By Erika Weiser

A

ttention all horror buffs, sci-fi nerds and weirdos, The Luna Theater has something freaky in store just for you.

Every Wednesday beginning July 1, you’ll find a new macabre movie playing, hosted by filmmaker and special effects artist Rob Fitz.

The best part — it’s totally free!

Weirdo Wednesdays stems from the mad minds of Fitz and The Luna Theater Director Amelia Tucker. The only catch: you’ll never know what is going to be screening until you get there.

Who doesn’t love a good surprise?

Who: Rob Fitz Age: 44 Occupation: Director/Makeup artist How did you get into the film, special effects industry?

Rob: I went to a school for visual arts and made student films. I learned by doing student films and whatever effects they needed. I first worked as a production assistant on movies until I got the chance to do makeup and then things progressed from there.

How do you pick the movies that will play?

Rob: I try to go with a theme. If something is topical in the news or something I’ll find a cult horror flick that is equivalent. It can be of any era too, from 19152015. You never know what it will be.

Weirdest movie you’ve seen?

Rob: One of the weirdest things I have ever seen played at The Luna a few months ago. It was a film called “House” (1977). It’s a bizarre Japanese horror film.

What is your favorite horror movie?

Rob: Dawn of the Dead (1979) hands down, made me want to do what I do.

What movie do you feel has the best special effect makeup?

Rob: The Exorcist has the best old age makeup. But for classic practical effects I would say The Thing, or even American Werewolf in London

How many films have you worked on?

Rob: At this point over 50 (imdb.com says 46 but it’s not up to date). Only a handful of the movies have been horror.

What was your favorite movie to work on?

Rob: I really enjoyed working on Ted 2.

My department head was my friend Howard Berger from KNB effects. We had a lot of fun working on set.

weirdo wednesdays

Rob: I love me some zombies. A lot of fun and nice and messy. Vampires are a close second.

Shows start every Wednesday at 7:30 pm.

Come to see what twisted, bizarre movie will be next in the line up.

How did you come up with Weirdo Wednesdays?

www.lunalowell.com

Rob: Well I went to The Luna to see a movie and was so impressed that I asked (theater director) Amelia Tucker if there were any plans for a horror movie night. We talked a bit and she came to me with the idea but she knew that I was a crazy movie nerd so she asked me to put it together.

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What is your favorite supernatural creature to create?

at the luna theater

cker lia Tu

y Ame tion b a r t s u Ill

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