PULSE MAGAZINE: JANUARY 2023

Paul Giorgio, Publisher pgiorgio@pagioinc.com

David Simone, Vice President, Sales dsimone@pagioinc.com

Jenny Pacillo, Editor jpacillo@pagioinc.com

Kevin La, Art Director kla@pagioinc.com

Nick Sposato, Executive Events Coordinator nsposato@pagioinc.com

LUKAS THERIEN, TATTOO ARTIST.

Therien was born and raised in Worcester and has town pride in spades. In fact, one of his side hustles includes making things for Worcester Wares. He prides himself in being able to help make the world and the people in it ‘more beautiful’. “Mostly, I just wanna make things that look cool. As a tattoo artist, you’re altering not only someone’s image, but also someone's self esteem. If I can help someone look in the mirror and like what they see just a little bit more, I’ve done my job.”

Proud moment:

Over the past year, Therien’s favorite event was a solo show at Electric Haze, set up by Chris Michelotti. “As someone who started out in the community as more of a traditional artist before

making the transition to tattooing, it’s been a side goal of mine to merge these two scenes. I would love to see more tattooers getting involved in the local art scene and showcasing some of the incredible talent that’s in the local tattoo world right now.”

Looking forward to in 2023: Because his interest in art and artistic expression is vast, Therien is interested in setting up more collaborative art events in the coming year. Collaborating with local creatives on both artwork and events. I’m not a great “planner” so just really taking any opportunities that come by me and continuing to cultivate relationships with local artists and seeing what comes out of it.

Written by Irena Kaçi

Worcester, like all cities, is a veritable hub of talent and ambition. I had the chance to chat with some of them to talk about where they have been and where they are going. Here is a list of those who are crackling and popping around town and are looking to take this next year by storm.

GIULIANO D’ORAZIO, MUSICIAN.

Worcester’s answer to Bruce Springsteen, D’Orazio moved to Worcester in 1999 and went through the public school system. He graduated Burncoat High in 2010, and feels well rooted in our fair city. D’Orazio attended Berklee College of Music and then moved promptly back to his adopted hometown.

D’Orazio is a proud multi-hyphenate, writing, performing, recording and producing his own music. He is passionate not just about his creative process but also about how it aligns with his values and priorities.

“As a gay artist, a major part of my mission is to present an example for young LGBTQ+ kids out there who may not see a wide variety of queer identities represented in mainstream media. When I was young, I was obsessed with classic rock and roll (and still am). I struggled to find role queer models like Bowie and Freddy Mercury in the here and now — especially locally. My identity takes center stage in my music because I wish I saw someone doing that in Worcester’s local music scene when I was starting out. I don’t think queer artistic expression should be expected to stay in our accepted “lanes”. We’re everywhere.”

Proud moment: “I try to avoid pouring my energy into anything that lacks passion. I feel very grateful to say that, and I recognize the privilege, in that not everyone has the support or ability to build a career that is so passion-driven. Still, it’s a ton of work filled with plenty of thankless, unseen, unpaid hours of labor, not everyone has that kind of commitment.”

Looking forward to in 2023: “The funny thing about writing really personal music is that it shows you how un-personal a lot of it is, in that, no matter how lonely or unique your experience might seem, there are others who have experienced something similar and are willing to listen and unpack those problems together — whether its through deep conversations or simply a really fun, cathartic musical performance where both the people on stage and in the audience can get a lot of junk out of their systems. I think that’s my favorite part of my job, and I look forward to exploring that in new ways.

Bachez began taking an interest in the city he had left behind. Thanks to a mural tour organized by Worcester Walls, Bachez researched local artists and murals in Worcester. His research and communications with local artists led to the “Who Is Worcester?” project and the rest just, in classic Worcester fashion, snowballed.

Proud moment:

CHRISTIAN BACHEZ, DIGITAL ARTIST

Bachez arrived in Worcester in 2019 when he started attending the College of the Holy Cross. Unfortunately, it wasn’t a great time to start college. After being sent back to his home in New York City to continue school remotely,

“During 2020, I became quite politically active and realized that there are many inequalities in our world that needed to be addressed. I saw a lot of wheatpastes going up in New York that revolved around these very issues that were important to me. I had recognized the power that art had to be an impactful political statement by itself. Although much of my work is not overtly political, it takes into account political issues that are important to me within the creation, composition, etc. When it comes to murals, I like to research the history of the location where I will paint and I think about the best way to reach the people who are going to see the mural every day. I also tend to work with groups and organizations that do good for the community in one way or another.”

“One passion project that I'm super proud of is my mural at El Buen Samaritano. It was originally slated to be a part of a bigger project, but after things fell through about two weeks before it was supposed to be painted, I decided to just go for it. The design and location were super important to me for a number of personal reasons and there was a lot of passion that went into painting that. It was a really fun experience and I love seeing members of the community appreciate it, take pictures with it and send it to me on their social media pages!”

Looking forward to in 2023:

“I am looking forward to creating more art in general. I have been involved in six different research projects in six different departments. They include researching old Latin American films, pigeons in an Avian Lab, and the Nipmuc Nation and its presence at Pakachoag Hill. After graduating from Holy Cross, I plan on taking a gap year to focus on art which will include having a consistent studio practice where I can seek out more opportunities around the US and paint more murals!”

Nominated by the Pulse Magazine Staff

CLAUDIO ESHUN, A.K.A DON CLAUDE, PHOTOGRAPHER

Eshun or Don Claude was born in Accra, Ghana but grew up in Vicenza, Italy until the age of 9. In 2006, after only a couple of trial visits, Eshun and his small family moved to the United States. “The opportunity to travel to 3 continents, live in an under-resourced community, and endure traumatic immigration experiences as an African immigrant with a single mother all influenced my rigorous creative practice. My family history and its reclamation of a new home, positions me and them within a context where the construction and deconstruction of identities and tensions that occur as a result of adaptation, assimilation and our attempts to accustom ourselves with the notion of alienation has had a profound impact on my work.”

Don Claude has the ability to incorporate the competing visual languages in his photographs, using them to reflect and reimagine scenes from his own personal history. “I see images from Ghana and Italy and more recently from America. I incorporate all these visual languages into the images I create. As a once-stateless person who had to learn how to navigate institutions, cultures and languages, my work merges my distinct identities as an African, black, hypervisible, and invisible man in America. Performance, gesture, and costume allow me to conjure the people and places of my life. The tableaux I create provide a stage to elicit emotional registers of individual experience and the specific concerns of black individuals from a multiplicity of backgrounds. In creating these images, I am in conversation with my family and friends

DOMENICA PERRONE ACTIVIST/COMMUNITY ORGANIZER

Perrone moved to Worcester when she enrolled at Clark Universe as a graduate student. While at Clark, she worked as a program evaluator for youth programming at the Latino Education Institute at Worcester State, and was affiliated with the Collaborative for Youth and Community Justice.

Proud moment:

She is most proud of her work in the Department of Health and Human Services, in particular of the youth led vaccination campaign #postVaxLife. “I got the opportunity to work with some of my favorite people: youth, creatives, and researchers (from UMass Chan Medical School's Prevention Research Center) to create a public health campaign to inform young people in Worcester about the Covid-19 vaccine. I am proud of this work, in part because it was youth-led and centered, while also uplifting the creative work of our City's incredibly talented artists (shout out to Worcester photographer George Annan and Worcester videographer Fernando Ponce). It demonstrated that collaboration between public and private sectors, government and universities, youth and adults can all come together to create something really awe-

- I listen closely to stories about their experiences and lives that both overlap with and differ from my own – I am asked to challenge yet be sensitive to, the stereotypes in Western, African and afro-descendant portraiture. By assembling photographs of family and friends -- found, collected, and made -- I explore my multiple pasts and possibilities for the future.”

Proud moment: “Starting a dromo, an annual zine publication, I started back in graduate school where I was focusing on first-generation immigrants and independent artists. As a Ghanaian who speaks GA, I try to stay rooted in where I come from. The word “dromo” means grace. We sold out the first edition and I am excited and proud to continue to work on the next 5 editions. The second one is 80% done. I share this because I share dromo with mom, who came up with the title. My aunts hares her opinions on what will resonate with her as GA raised child in Ghana. My friends and artists provide their ideas, making the work with me, purchasing a copy, and promoting it on social media, it’s a community project.”

Looking forward to in 2023: “Since I am bringing more play into my work by experimenting and breaking away from traditional inkjet printing, I’d like to do more screen printing on various African fabrics and materials shipped from my family in Ghana, riso work, digital negatives thinking of translation, and 4x5 wet plates as a time-sensitive practice in relation to what is present and lost. All these lead to attempting to place vinyl prints around the city of Worcester to bring the art to the community rather than having my work solely in a museum or acquired by private collectors.”

some and exciting! (It also became a state-wide model for this kind of work!)” Perhaps less work-related, Perrone is also a proud paw-rent to her Australian Shepherd Elsa.

Looking forward to in 2023: Deeply connected to the city as an Ecuadorian immigrant and an activist, Perrone is running for Worcester City Councilor At Large in order to continue her mission in public service. “I love how Worcester is full of community organizers, grassroots leaders, and mobilized groups that are invested in a culturally diverse, equitable, vibrant City. I have spent a lifetime in public service advocating and working hard to ensure all of our City's families, youth and children have equitable access to the resources they need to have a happy and healthy life.”

ULYSSES YOUNGBLOOD, ENTREPRENEUR

Youngblood moved to Worcester from Bridgeport, CT in 2006, as a first year college student at Assumption. “During that time I got in trouble at Assumption for something marijuana related, and then got into a dispute with the local police. I was a victim of police brutality and moved back home instead to finish college.” Youngblood got his undergraduate degree, and then went for his MBA at Northeastern in Boston. During his graduate degree, he began living in Worcester again. “Worcester has been my home for over 8 years now. I think going back to that incident, it was a lot of learning about who I was. I did not want to let something like that define my life. I figured it was, instead, a lesson that I could learn.” Youngblood started his own company and his business Major Bloom, a truly local dispensary, in 2016, and teaches part time at Clark University.

Born and raised right here in Worcester, Borenstein is a 3rd generation Worcesterite and a very proud one. He studied his undergrad in UMASS Amherst, and went to law school in Springfield. Being away from home helped Borenstein see his hometown in a whole new light, and appreciate Worcester’s journey from a gateway city into a destination city. “I moved back to Worcester in 2014 and that was really the beginning of Worcester’s renaissance. It was a really exciting time to begin a law career.” Borenstein’s focus is real estate law and he’s been instrumental to the aforementioned renaissance. “I constantly think about how my work can help improve Worcester. I help developers bring new opportunities –commercial or private –into the city. I bring the home grown vibe; I understand the city and the neighborhood. I appreciate the tension between the communities that are deeply rooted in the city and the new development so I work hard to be hypersensitive to that and proceed with the understanding

that Worcester’s greatest asset are its people.”

Proud moment: “I’m really proud of helping with (formerly) POW WOW Worcester, now Worcester Walls. I joined that committee in the second year and we really helped that grassroots organization expand its reach. There was a lot of legal work that needed to be done in order to take it to the next level. I helped draw up contracts with artists, and getting permits for equipment. It was a great opportunity to do something community focused, and I am very proud of having helped with it. I was in what they called the #nofuncommittee but it was fun for me.”

Looking forward to in 2023: “I would love to continue doing more of the same and continuing to expand Worcester to reach its potential.”

Proud moment: “I am a dad to two boys, and I’m really proud that I am able to have open and honest conversations with them about what I do. We talk about it in age appropriate ways of course, and they’re not allowed in the store, but it’s important to me to have that open dialogue with them about marijuana. Regarding my business, I’m proud that we have home delivery. We deliver people their orders for free. It’s a nice service.”

Looking forward to in 2023: I am looking forward to learning more about the product and continuing to make it accessible for everyone. We just got our community host agreement, so I’m looking forward to putting it to good use.”

MARK BORENSTEIN, ATTORNEY

WOODEN BAR

LY, BUSINESS OWNER

Christopher Ly moved to Worcester 10 years ago and developed an interest in the old mill buildings, for which Worcester is rather famous. “I stayed and started to build Wooden Noodles, among other various projects. Work weaves pretty intimately with my values. The culture we have set at Wooden Bar is carefully cultivated and curated. We've always cared for what we were putting out into the world and how it would affect things. We tried to take feedback and make adjustments every time. How we treat each other and our workers is a constant practice of communication and we try to adapt to the dynamic problems that come our way. We try to have fun learning, and when it's not fun, we push through and learn from that too.”

Proud moment: “Wooden Bar is the obvious passion project that has had the most traction so far. But we are only where we are because our friends and community trusted us to do so. Although we are trying to provide a space that adds our particular flavor of carpentry and cuisine to Worcester, we are heavily influenced and straight up carried along by the people around us. I'm proud of our choices and we hope that our compass for business and commerce stays true through the years.”

Looking forward to in 2023: We look forward to doing more carpentry.. which will in part tie into Wooden Bar. We plan to do more timber framing (how we met and bonded). We also have built a few wooden saunas, steam baths, and hot tubs throughout the years. Although I am focusing on food and drink right now, I hope to also shift my attention towards bath culture and the very idea of quality leisure if the future permits. Worcester works hard, it deserves a way to deal with the aches and pains of the day too. A healthy idea of leisure lets us work harder and fuller, all the while not becoming so one dimensionally focused on production and numbers

SPENCER MEWHERTER, BUSINESS OWNER

Mewherter moved to Worcester about a decade ago, as many have, in pursuit of a college degree, but he stayed for the interesting community projects. Inspired by projects like Woodaddy Waffles and Duck Yao, Mewherter and his friend Chirstopher Ly, joined forces to create Wooden Bar. “Those places showed us the possibility of creating fun and exciting food in the city.”

Proud Moment: “Wooden Bar is a pretty active and exciting project, it's been great being able to work with our excellent team.”

Looking forward to in 2021: “As our business hopefully grows and expands I'm looking forward to collaborating more and adding more special events. We've already hosted popups with the amazing chefs at damgeuda and it's been a pleasure to be a small part of bringing their food to Worcester.”

Rebekah was raised in Waterbury, CT and moved to Worcester, MA in 2017, after she was accepted at Clark University. She studied Community, Youth Education Studies as well as Political Science American Government. I graduated cum laude and with a published praxis thesis. During her secondary schooling, Etique experienced a variety of educational approaches, which led to her interest in law and public policy, with a focus on education.

Proud Moment:

“Being campaign manager of James Amorello’s State Senate campaign in the new Worcester and Hampshire District was an invaluable experience; it allowed me to analyze the policies inherently effective to our people. Amorello received a 46% share of the votes, representing an excellent showing for a first-time candidate against a 20-year incumbent, and that is something of which I am very proud.”

Looking Forward to in 2023: “My praxis thesis, published online in 2021, focuses on an element of inequality in our education system. The two years I spent between researching and interviewing various communities on the matter gave inspiration to my current project. I am now in the developmental stages of launching research for a documentary which will focus on the present education policies damaging student’s learning process. It’s something that I have been wanting to invest myself in for about five years now and I’m thrilled to finally have the resources and full capability to dive in.”

Thorpe moved from bustling Dorchester, to a quiet Worcester suburb when she was 13 years old, and even though it was a bit of an adjustment, she took to it and now feels that Worcester is very much her home. Her love for the written word took root here and it continues to grow. “At the heart of all the things I do, is a love of sharing. I strive to put out into the world the things that are important to me, that spark conversation and bring people together.”

Proud Moment: “I am always so excited to talk about the Worcester Black History Project and all the work that we do. I’ve been a member for two years, and the WBHP connected me to Worcester in ways I didn’t know possible. The individuals I met, and the things wouldn’t have happened without the WBHP.”

Looking forward to in 2023: “I am looking forward to more poetry shows. I hope to do more shows in Worcester, of course, but also branch out and work with artists in different cities or even different states.”

CHRISTOPHER

XAULANDA THORPE, POET

REBEKAH ETIQUE, PARALEGAL, ASPIRING DOCUMENTARIAN

Medina grew up in Worcester’s Bell Hill neighborhood and was a ‘Village Baby”. “I had many extended aunts, uncles, and community members who all contributed in big and small ways to my understanding of who I am and what my role in the world is.” After graduating from Worcester Tech, Medina studied at Bucknell University as a Posse scholar, but even while away, she knew she wanted to come back home and reinvest in her hometown. “My upbringing instilled in me the importance of knowing my history and culture, advancing racial and social justice, and striving to come from a place of love when interacting with others. The work that I do with OurStory Edutainment and The Village Worcester strives to teach folks about true Black history and culture, create a safe space for those who descend from enslaved people in this country to be acknowledged and affirmed, ensure that folks have the tools they need to be firm and confident advocates for racial equity and social justice, and lastly, bringing healing and positive vibrations and intentions to any space we step in.”

Proud Moment:

“I am incredibly proud that myself and a team of folks were able to reclaim, rehabilitate,and reimagine a purpose for 4 King Street. We worked hard for 7 months to re-establish relationships with neighbors and community members, repair damages to the building, and finally open our doors to the community. Since opening, we have created magic in the space and are proud to support 11 different grassroots & non-profit organizations on a daily basis. I have been most proud of our Afrocentric Saturday School program that taught children ages 7 to 13 Black history starting in precolonial Afrika and ending with contemporary events like the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbury and too many other Black folks at the hands of the police/racial hatred.”

Looking forward to in 2023: “I would love to provide opportunities for community members to both see the beauty in their own city and explore the work being done in surrounding areas to preserve the history and culture of Black people. In addition, I am looking forward to creating more opportunities for folks to engage with cultural history and racial/social justice at the intersection of art, music, dance, poetry etc.”

An immigrant from the DR, Martinez learned firsthand the importance of community and helping the most vulnerable in our society. “I went to public school while learning English as a second language (ELL), and speaking Spanish in the early 1990s was not well received. I had some very difficult challenges navigating systems, but I also knew that the local neighborhood around me and the Worcester community as a whole always provided me with resources, safety, and a sense of belonging. Because of my lived experiences, my values and priorities live within me. My values as a human have led me to confidently express concerns and voice inequities within my community. So I left my 10-year career in the auto industry to pursue health equity work. In 2019, I launched my own company, Mart Consulting LLC. The organization is a public health consulting firm that works with health, government, and human services agencies to make transformative strategies and models that lead to systemic change.”

Proud Moment: “The Training Institute is the project I'm most proud of from all the ones I've been able to work on. These workshops against racism are part of an ongoing project that brings together well-known people from Worcester. As a facilitator, this project gives me the chance to help people learn more about how to get rid of racism at its roots by pushing them to the edge of what they know.”

Looking Forward to in 2023: “I will be graduating from Georgetown University the week before I turn 40 in May ‘23. Mart Consulting’s goals are organizational development, financial justice, building coalitions, making policy strategies, diversity, equity, and inclusion. My hope for the future is to someday bring these services on a federal and international level.”

BUSINESS OWNER

"I've always heard if you're good at something, focus on it," Joe Haddad, owner of Haddad Enterprises tells me. Haddad started out five years ago with a pickup truck, mowing lawns on his own. "It transpired into sending crews out to mow the lawns, then we got into the construction aspect of things with walkways and walls." Haddad added commercial plowing as well as commercial and residential dumpsters to the company too. A savvy business owner who rolls up his sleeves and gets the job done, Haddad is definitely on his way to to the top.

Proud Moment:

Some of my proudest moments from this year have to be supporting the community. After five years in business it's great to be on the other end and be able to help others whenever we can. Getting involved and giving back is part of our core values.

Looking forward to in 2023: The transformation the city has experienced in recent years is astonishing and we couldn't be happier to be a part of it. We love, live and want to grow with Worcester.

Born and raised in Accra, Ghana, Carboo immigrated to the US by way of NYC, where he lived for almost three years. “t was a hustling lifestyle where having a regular job wasn’t enough to fulfill my goals and future dreams. Therefore, I started trading shoes, buying sneakers off cheap sellers, repurpose them or customize them in my own way. This experience taught me to always look good for trust and understanding the current era we live in, because people go by looks first then listen to what you have to say.” Carboo moved to Worcester in 2015 and worked as a cashier at Lowe’s. “I used to draw cars, outfits, shoes, etc. on receipts customers would leave behind. One of the customers saw my art and he invited me to one of Worcester’s Fashion Shows where it inspired me to do totally the opposite and that's when everything started, in 2016 I established my brand “Wavvznewage”

Proud moment:

“Create your own Vibe was one of the projects I was proud of because that really unified a lot of the youth with fashion, modeling , music and art . Before and after the pandemic, we held a Model casting with the help of Jaribel Carela who is my fiancé. stART on the street was a wonderful experience where Jaribel and I with the collaboration of the creative hub Worcester were able to set up a start-up for sewing workshops and teaching kids and adults how to make tote bags .”

Looking Forward to in 2023:

“While uplifting the next generation with my events and projects, I would love to have a Worcester fashion week just to bring more attention to Worcester to enlighten the fact that there are more talented and hardworking artists in the city. After being in multiple fashion shows and weeks, I believe we can hold our fashion shows with the help of the city.”

SHA-ASIA MEDINA, ORGANIZER AT THE VILLAGE

EMMANUEL QLYNTON CARBOO, ARTIST, FASHION DESIGNER

JOE HADDAD,

LAURA MARTINEZ, CONSULTANT

American Heritage Museum

(978) 562-9182

568 Main St., Hudson https://www.americanheritagemuseum.org/ January 20 - History of Tanks

Arts Worcester (508) 755-5142

44 Portland St., Worcseter https://artsworcester.org/

November 11 - Public Reception: Go Big

Boulder Art Gallery (978) 354-7000

960 Main St., Fitchburg http://theboulderartgallery.com/ Gallery open Thursday, Friday, Saturday

Brick Box Theater (508) 413-5622

20B Franklin St., Worcester

January 6 & 7 - Kelli O’Hara

JMAC Popup (508) 561-0173

20B Franklin St., Worcester www.jmacworcester.org

January 14 - Jeanette Rosario presents The Blacklisted Show

Fitchburg Art Museum

(978) 345-4207

185 Elm St., Fitchburg https://fitchburgartmuseum.org/ Free First Thursdays

Hanover Theatre (877) 571-7469

2 Southbridge St., Worcester https://thehanovertheatre.org/

January 5 - Get the Led Out

January 14 & 15 - Shen Yun

January 20 - Llama Llama Red Pajama Live!

Mechanics Hall (508) 752-5608

321 Main St., Worcester https://www.mechanicshall.org/

Old Sturbridge Village (800) 733-1830

1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd., Sturbridge https://www.osv.org/ Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays - Christmas by Candlelight

Preservation Worcester (508) 754-8760

10 Cedar St., Worcester https://www.preservationworcester.org/

Samuel Slater Experience (508) 461-2955

31 Ray St., Webster https://samuelslaterexperience.org/

Tower Hill Botanical Garden (508) 869-6111

11 French St., Boylston https://www.towerhillbg.org/

Tuesdays - Chair Yoga

Wednesdays - Qigong & Tai Chi Movement

Thursdays - Yoga in the Garden

Fridays - Chill Yoga Flow

January 7 - Yin Yoga for the New Year

January 8 - Winter Tree Identification Workshop

January 13, 14, 20 & 21Killer in the Conservatory

January 14 - Forest Bathing in the Conservatory January 16 - Make Resin Bookmarks

January 19 - Sashiko Embroidery

January 21 - Drawing Basics: Fantastic Flowers in Pen & Ink

January 22 - Chinese Brush Painting: Chrysanthemums

January 25 - Emerging Trends in Natural Land-

scapes & Land Care

January 28 - Therapeutic Horticulture: Winter White Floral

Tuckerman Hall (508) 754-1234

10 Tuckerman St., Worcester http://www.tuckermanhall.org/

The Village Worcester thevillageworcester@gmail.com

4 King St., Worcester

Worcester Art Museum (508) 799-4406

55 Salisbury St., Worcester https://www.worcesterart.org/

Free First Sundays

January 7 - Public Tour of Jewels of the Nile

January 8 - Ice Carving by Chip Koser

January 22 & 29 - Highlights Tour

Worcester Center for Crafts (508) 753-8103

25 Sagamore Rd., Worcester https://www.worcestercraftcenter.org/

Worcester Chamber Music Society (508) 926-8624

323 Main St, Worcester https://worcesterchambermusic.org/

Worcester Historical Museum (508) 753-8278

30 Elm St., Worcester https://www.worcesterhistory.org/

January 22 - Matt Frasier: America’s Top Psychic Medium

LISTINGS

If you’d like to be included in future listings, please email JPacillo@pagioinc.com.

BirchTree Bread Company 744-243-6944 138 Green St., Worcester Birchtreebreadcompany.com

Black and White Grille 508-885-5018

206 North Spencer Rd., Spencer Blackandwhitegrille.com

Black Sheep Tavern 978-422-0255 261 Leominster Rd, Sterling Meetmeatthesheep.com

Blueprint New American Bar & Grille 978-668-5580

10 Village Sq., Westminster

Cafe Neo 774-253-6139 97 Millbury St., Worcester Nightly Karaoke

Chuck’s Steakhouse 508-832-2553

10 Prospect Street, Auburn Classic’s Pub 978-227-5258

285 Central St., Leominster

Chashu Ramen + Izakaya 508-304-7183

38 Franklin St., Worcester

Draught House Bar & Grill 508-835-4722

42 West Boylston St., West Boylston

Electric Haze

26 Millbury St., Worcester

January 25 - The Space Jam

January 27 - Fackn’ A: featuring Mike Dillion and Lespecial

Elm Draught House 508-865-2850

35 Elm St., Millbury

Fidder’s Green Pub 508-792-3700

19 Temple St., Worcester January 19 - Support the Special Olympics Firefly’s BBQ 508-357-8883

350 E. Main St., Marlborough

Dante’s at Firefly BBQ: Indoors

January 6 - Moose Juice

January 7 - Studio Two Beatles

Tribute

January 13 - Shady Armadillo

January 14 - Iron Tiger

January 20 - Gain 211

January 21 - Freeballin’

January 28 - Playing Dead

Flying Rhino 508-757-1450

278 Shrewsbury St., Worcester

Gardner Ale House 978- 669-0122 74 Parker St., Gardner

Greater Good Imperial Brewing 508-926-8736

55 Millbrook St., Worcester

Greendale’s Pub 508-853-1350

404 W Boylston St. North, Worcester

Sundays - Night Jam Wednesdays - Wacky Blues Jam

Halligan’s 508-832-6739

889 Southbridge St., Auburn

Husky’s Pub 508-425-9614

413 Park Ave., Worcester

Mondays - Movie Night Wednesdays - Acoustic Open Mic

Thursdays - Karaoke Sundays - Comedy Open Mic

January 6 & 13 - Trivia and Kara-

oke

January 7 - Opening Night

January 14 - Absinthe Minded January 20 - Jake Hunsinger and the Rock Bottom Band

January 21 - Konfused & Mansa-K

January 27 - DJ Bushy

January 28 - American Vernacular

Indian Ranch 508-943-3871 200 Gore Rd., Webster Indianranch.com

January 7 - Elvis Presley’s 88th Birthday Celebration

January 20 - Comedy Night at Slater’s with Frank Santorelli & Guests

Legends Bar and Grille 978- 342-6500 68 Airport Rd, Fitchburg

MB Lounge 508-799-4521 40 Grafton St., Worcester Wednesdays - Karaoke

1 Exchange St, Worcester Movie Mondays

Sunday - Video Game Night

Mint Kitchen + Bar 508-459-1532

79 Maywood St., Worcester Fridays - Karaoke Night

Off the Rails 508-304-6411

90 Commercial St., Worcester Music Venue

January 13 - Saints & Liars

January 14 - Annie Brobst with Stone County

January 20 - Best Night Ever: Taylor Swift

January 28 - WICN Public Radio Concert with Michelle “Evil Gal” WIllson

Restaurant Stage

January 1 - Vinny Bonina

January 5 - Pete Tower

January 6 & 26 - Jared Reinert

January 7 & 13 - Kamryn

January 8 & 22 - Sean Fullerton

January 12 - Tony Garcia

January 14 - Scott Magill

January 15 & 21 - David Rak

January 19, 27 &29 - Jesse Desourcy

January 20 - Nick Casey

Thursdays - Trivia Friday & Saturdays - Dance Party

Sundays - Game Night

January 15 - Drag Bingo

MCL Club 508-797-0141

181 Lake Ave., Worcester Worcestermcl.org

Thursdays - Karaoke

January 1 - Bagels, Bloody’s & Brumbetones!

January 28 - Confounded Bridge - Led Zeppelin Tribute Band

Michael’s Cigar Bar 508-459-9035

One Eyed Jack’s

Tiki Bar & Grill 508-459-0089

433 Park Ave., Worcester

Partner’s Pub 978-345-5051

970 South St., Fitchburg

Patsie Ducass 508 755-4155

49 Millbury St, Worcester Nightly Entertainment

Peppercorn’s Grille & Tavern 508-752-7711

455 Park Ave., Worcester

Purgatory Beer Co. 508-596-2194

670 Linwood Ave. Building C, Whitinsville

Ralph’s Diner 508-753-9543

148 Grove St., Worcester

Monday - The Dirty Gerund Poetry Open Mic Wednesday - Karaoke with Dj Matt R!

Rascal’s 508-459-0862

70 James St., Worcester Rascalsworcester.com

January 7 - Everybody Wants Some January 14 - Wildside

January 21 - Dock 10 January 28 - Aquanett

Reunion Tap & Table 774-293-5501

198 Worcester St., North Grafton

Mondays - Musical Bingo Wednesdays - Trivia with Nate Briggs

River Styx 978-696-5176

166 Boulder Dr., Fitchburg

Thursdays - World Tavern Poker/Trivia

December 3 - Jake Hunsinger

December 10 - Daniel Gay

December 17 - Lane Torosian

December 24 - Ryan Hood

December 31 - Jacqueline Burns/Karaoke with Midnight Beer Toast

Southside Grille 978-632-1057

242 West Broadway, Gardner Tuesdays - Slingo Thursdays - Trivia with Kevin Stakes Pub 508-755-2955

1281 Pleasant St., Worcester

Steel and Wire Cocktail Lounge 508-373-2225

124 Millbury St., Worcester Tuesdays - Trivia with Lexi Loo Wednesday Night Mix Tape Thursdays - Karaoke with DJ Matt R

The Bull Run 978-425-4311

215 Great Road, Shirley January 7 - DeadBeat with Mark Karan and Wally Ingram

The Muse 508-796-5900

536 Main St., Worcester

The Palladium 508-797-9696

261 Main St., Worcester

January 6 - Concert Crave Artist Showcase Winter 2023 Tour January 7 - God Forbid January 14 - Noche de Verano Sin Ti

January 20 - The Sounds of Animals Fighting January 21 - We Came As Romans

Band

January 13 - Boombox

January 14 - Miss Maxfield/The Wolfpack

January 15 - The Boothill Express Band

January 19 - Jake Hunsinger

January 20 - Mr. Strickland

January 21 - Cashwood

January 22 - Chris Barber

January 26 - Scott Babineau

January 28 - Tim Buono/Best Not Broken

January 29 - Booty & the Jett

Worcester Brew Yard at 152 Green St., Worcester

Wednesdays - Family Feud

Fridays - Dan O Bingo

January 6 - Frank Foot

January 7 - Booty & the Jett/ John Sage

January 13 - Alex Cohen

January 14 - Fred Ellsworth/ Chuck

January 20 - Jay Dias

January 21 - Jared Moore/A Good Time

Thirsty Robot

265 Summer St., Fitchburg Thursdays - Trivia Night Rob Boss

January 13 - Blue Collar Ramblers

January 27 - Ashley Hensel Music

January 28 - Lizzy Marquis/Kevin and Brian

January 13 - Popa Chubby

January 14 - Southern Rail/Corvettes Doo Wop Revue

January 15 - Albert Lee Band January 20 - Glen Phillips of Toad the Wet Sprocket January 21 - Delta Generators January 27 - Dark Desert Eagles: #1 Eagles Tribute Band January 28 - The Gibson Brothers

The GazBar 978- 534-6600 1045 Central St, Leominster

The Mill at 185 774-261-8585

185 W Boylston St., West Boylston

Live entertainment Thursday through Saturday

January 20 - Lunenburg Skate Park Bingo Night January 21 - Charley Carrozo

Tryst Lounge 978-400-7906 320 Main St, Fitchburg

Vincent’s Worcester 508-752-9439 49 Suffolk St., Worcester

Wachusett Brew Yard 978-874-9965

175 State Rd. E, Westminster Mondays - Dan O Bingo Tuesdays - Team Trivia Wednesdays - Line Dancing January 5 - Melting Moon/Jared Moore

January 6 - Fred Ellsworth

January 7 - A Good Time/Way Up South

January 9 - Nate Martel Music January 12 - The Darren Bessette

Whiskey on Water 774-578-8829 97 Water St., Worcester

White Eagle 508-753-9612 116-120 Green St., Worcester Whiteeagleworcester.com

Woo Bar & Grill 774-243-6130 358 Shrewsbury St., Worcester

feel the beat of the city

NOW STREAMING.

JASON SAVIO

BUSH: THE ART OF SURVIVAL

Bush’s ninth studio album, The Art of Survival, continues the British alternative rock band’s consistent approach to mixing power-chord rock with a sometimes electronic and industrial flair. Does it reach the heights of the band’s previous work? No, it doesn’t. There are some songs here that may strike an emotional response, but for the most part a lot of them get lost in each other as singer Gavin Rossdale attempts to pepper in socially conscious lyrics.

You can listen to The Art of Survival in two different ways and get a different experience from each: zone out on the pounding choruses and heavy guitars, or read the lyrics and try making sense of Rossdale’s lines. Rossdale spends much of the album in a gloomy headspace brought on in large part by what he sees happening around him—he says that “the earth is a madhouse/this planet is so screwed” in “Shark Bite,” sings about neighbors fighting each other and “emotional shooting sprees” in “Kiss Me I’m Dead,” and includes talk of police, guns, and Zoom meetings elsewhere. It’s about as heavy as the power chords you’ll hear.

The two standout tracks are “Human Sand,” with its Jack White-like riff and “Creatures of the Fire” for its trimmed down approach that makes for the most emotionally resonant song of the bunch. While not the group’s best work, credit should be given for Bush’s inclusion of these timely topics. https://bushofficial.com/

BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN: ONLY THE STRONG

With Only the Strong Survive, Bruce Springsteen turns in an impressive collection of R&B and soul cover songs, giving them a new breath of fresh air. This is a Bruce solo record so there isn’t the E Street Band, save for the horn section. An impressive string section contributes to a lot of the

tunes here, and producer Ron Aniello plays a majority of the instruments while Springsteen sings with the accompaniment of Sam Moore on select tracks.

And, boy, does he sing. Springsteen’s voice may have never sounded better than it does on this record. On the Temptations’, “I Wish It Would Rain,” he hits notes higher than you’d expect to hear from him, while letting his pipes ring out on the Four Tops’ “When She Was My Girl.” “Hey, Western Union Man” is a showcase for his vocals as well.

What really hits home—thanks in large part to Springsteen’s vocal delivery, as well as the string arrangements—is the emotional resonance of these songs. These are classics that already provide a big punch, and when you add the Boss and his delivery to the mix, it only makes them that much more heartbreaking. Try not to get teary-eyed while listening to his take on Jimmy Ruffin’s “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.” William Bell’s “I Forgot to be Your Lover” and Ben E. King’s “Don’t Play That Song” are two more that will get you.

While many fans would probably rather an album of original material, Only The Strong Survive will make most listeners happy. https://brucespringsteen.net/

BREWS

A Food and Bev Review: Fatima’s Cafe

THE MIDSHIFTERS (ELISABETH MORGAN & JOIE GERHARDT )

For this review, we knew we’d be stopping by Fatima’s Cafe, an East African restaurant located on West Boylston St. in Worcester, or, you know, Gold Star Boulevard.

As an ode to the service industry, we’ve decided that we’ll ask front of house staff from our previous dining adventure to direct us to our next; Fatima’s Cafe was recommended to us by the Wooden Bar team who beamed over how great their food is.

We knew that this time around we’d be ordering takeout, and the dark clouds and intervals of rain on this particular day only justified that decision. Maya, Joie’s three-year-old daughter, also joined us for our adventure, adding a little bit more flare to our day.

Joie called in our order after we decided that we’d share everything, which meant we were eating all vegan- much to Elisabeth’s excitement.

Ordering vegan proved not to be difficult. Omar, part owner of Fatima’s Cafe and partner to Fatima, animated and excited over the phone, exclaimed that all vegetables are made vegan- and that he had “one stick” of butter in the entire restaurant but it is reserved for his own personal use. We couldn’t help but laugh, his personality over the phone only made us more thrilled to go pick up our food.

Once we arrived at Fatima’s, we made the mistake of pulling up to their take-out window to retrieve our meal, but Omar inside waved us to the front door.

“You didn’t say that you were writing an article for Pulse,” he exclaimed. Elisabeth felt like Omar was a long lost friend- had she known this man her whole life, or was it just that he eluded that type of friendliness that made you feel like you had? Either way, she apologized for not giving a heads up, and he laughed and told her a story about how important Pulse was to the opening of his restaurant.

Inside there are a few tables and walls covered in African paintings, warm and inviting. As Elisabeth waited for Omar to finish packing up their food, they discussed the importance of supporting small, family run businesses in

our neighborhoods. Before parting ways, Omar suggested that we wash our hands and eat with them, so of course that was the plan- yes Chef!

Maya judged us while we sat and took pictures of our food, but somehow our confidence stayed intact. Judgment from a three-year-old can be crippling.

We had ordered drinks, veggie samosas, chapatti, an Ethiopian Anjero platter, and a veggie wrap. Clearly, we were hungry.

THE BREAKDOWN:

Fatima’s fruit juice (strawberry and ginger): Perfectly sweet with a touch of ginger- this was the perfect, light, little pick me up while setting up our plates.

Veggie samosas: Chef's kiss. Came with a spicy cilantro sauce, but otherwise not spicy. We chose the lentil samosas options, which were meaty and encompassed by a soft, pastry-like exterior.

Chapatti: A soft, unleavened flatbread that was perfect to use in place of a spoon. Easy to rip apart, easy to fall in love with.

Ethiopian Anjero platter: A whole bunch of perfectly stewed veggies! We had green lentils, cabbage, and a mixed assembly of soft eggplant, potatoes, and peppers. These veggies had a little heat to them, which we thoroughly enjoyed, and their homely East African spices comforted us on such a dreary day.

Veggie wrap: The softest sandwich we’ve ever had, like biting into a pillow. A mix of stewed veggies with African spices, wrapped in a soft, toasted pita-like bread. It melted in our mouths and was jazzed up with some heat.

To sum it up- Fatima’s Cafe provided us with the perfect, cozy, stay at home meal. We had fun eating with our hands and getting messy. We suggest you stop in and try out their food, and make sure to chat with the owners, who we found to be the best part of the entire experience.

DINING REVIEW NAPOLI ITALIAN DELI & CATERING

BERNIE WHITMORE

Sage is a perilous herb. In the hands of an amateur it can overwhelm the other flavors of a dish as it asserts its pungent piney nature. Used with restraint, though, it’s a key flavor component in recipes ranging from roasted Thanksgiving turkey to one of the classics of Italian cuisine, Veal Saltimbocca.

My first experience with Saltimbocca, in Boston’s North End, was mystical; I’d never experienced such flavor harmony. Sorrily, efforts to replicate that experience have been an elusive quest; one that’s led me to suffer more dreary veal than I care to remember. Most chefs go rogue with the simple recipe; many omit sage entirely.

Setting out for Napoli Italian Deli, I was anticipating good marinara, meatballs and sausage. Nothing too fancy. They’re well known for their catering service and friends have raved about their sandwiches for years. When we finally snagged a parking place and entered Napoli, I wasn’t surprised to encounter the long line of people waiting for take-out orders, or the deli case, or the soft drink coolers.

I didn’t expect to see such an extensive menu posted on their blackboard. Even more surprising was the lead item: Saltimbocca; veal or chicken. My hopes were lifted, after all, they’d listed the proper ingredients, a very good omen. Could this unassuming little place succeed where so many pretentious restaurants have failed?

First, though, we placed our order at Napoli’s counter. The woman who waited on us welcomed us as ‘newbies’ and advised us to grab the last open table. Once seated, we had time to check out a wall hung with yellowing family photographs and another with vintage baseball memorabilia. Other than that, Napoli is strictly business: a handful of little tables, a wire rack of potato chips and well-used recycle bins.

After a short wait we were presented with our antipasto, a square plate heaped with mixed greens scattered with thin-sliced red onion and ripe olives. Running diagonally across the top were thick slices of rolled ham, salami, and provolone; anchoring two corners of the plate were generous portions of roasted red pepper strips.

Napoli’s vinaigrette was simple and tart – perfect for antipasto. Each component of the salad was fresh and expertly presented with attractive color balance; the roasted peppers were tasty and firm. All of this bode well.

The first thing we noticed when our entrées arrived was the pasta. Such huge portions of pasta! Enough to feed a family!

My first forkful of gemelli, dripping with rich marsala wine sauce, was enough to inform me that Napoli’s chef understands saltimbocca. Each veal medallion was layered with thin prosciutto ham, buttery-tender, and topped with molten

fresh mozzarella and inflected with a whisper of fresh sage flavor. Firm slices of fresh mushrooms added flavor depth to a wine sauce so rich it lavishly coated the gemelli pasta.

Such unity of flavors! This was the best veal saltimbocca I’ve had in many years. The quest was attained.

My companion was equally pleased with Napoli’s Eggplant Parmesan. Layers of thinly sliced eggplant that had been lightly breaded and panfried, not tossed in a deep fryer, were topped with parmesan cheese. Home-style. No shortcuts.

The eggplant was served over a boatload of gemelli pasta and smothered in marinara sauce. Napoli’s marinara, on its own merit quest-worthy, was bright-flavored crushed tomato with bits of onion, perfumed with oregano and audaciously spicy. Its flavor unified the plate.

In our history of Italian dining, we’ve more than once abandoned a restaurant for their uninspired marinara. Napoli Italian Deli & Catering, stripped bare of any of the trappings of fine dining, is a worthy destination based purely on honest ingredients, friendly service, and a culinary skillset that ranges from nuanced to fearless.

ZIGGY OPENS: Well Ziggy’s dream finally has come true as he opened his first brick and mortar location on Worcester’s Franklin Street across from the Common. Ziggy (Mike Devish) is a marketing genius. He has developed a great brand off his food truck. We hear he is opening a second location in Leicester soon

MADDIE’S SPACE IS FOR RENT: Maddie’s owner, who closed the restaurant on Worcester’s Water Street in November, has put the place up for sale or lease. Great location.

ONE CLOSES, ONE OPENS: While Maddie’s owner will concentrate on his Milford location, a Milford restaurant will soon open in Worcester. According to Facebook, Spreggy’s Grille, which is currently located in the Central Tavern, will be opening soon in Worcester. No location is public yet.

A JUICY TIDBIT: It looks like Park Ave may be getting a juice bar. A sign in the window next to Altea’s heralds the opening of Mia Cane, a juice and Acai place. Acai is a berry native to South America that is rumored to help with weight loss and memory.

MAKIN’ IT GOOD: Maken Zi Ramen & Rice Bowls recently opened its doors in West Boylston at 26 West Boylston Street. So far it has gotten good reviews. Ramen has come a long way from those 10 cent packages that college students live on.

TAKE 5: The 5 & Diner located in the old Lincoln Plaza is being torn down. It shut its doors years ago and has been sitting empty. The demolition will make way for a new restaurant.

DON’T BE A PINHEAD: The Miss Worcester Diner on Worcester’s Southbridge Street recently was featured in Zippy the Pinhead, a Boston Globe comic strip. Zippy ventured west and stopped by the Miss Woo. Who knew.

IN MORE NEWS FROM THE WOO: According to the Travel Maven, The Miss Worcester has been chosen as the best diner in Massachusetts.

NOT JUST FOR PEANUTS: The District Wood Fired Kitchen located on Worcester’s Harding Street will be hosting a beer dinner with Hudson’s Medusa Brewery on January 26 at 7 pm. The cost is $75 per person.

WILL IT BE A NEW TRADITION? Joe Weiss from the band Four Year Strong and a Worcester resident is opening a Vegan restaurant and bar off of Jackson Street in Worcester’s Main South. It will be called New Tradition. He also plans on putting in a tattoo shop.

NOT FOOD BUT WORCESTER: Wormtown Brewing released its first spirits from their distillery on Dec 16. They offer six cocktails made with their rye or vodka.

HAPPENING IN THE BROOKFIELD: West Brookfield’s Salem Cross Inn is once again hosting their Fireside Feasts. The cost is $89 per person for adults. They will be held every Friday, Saturday & Sunday in January and beyond.

what’s happening in the restaurant scene

PAUL GIORGIO

PULSEBREW

SHANNON JUTRAS

Dear Drinkers,

Welcome to the start of a New Year(™). The bustle of the holidays, with all their bright lights and complicated dynamics, is behind us now. This should be a moment for relief, for a collective exhale.

Instead, we may find ourselves inundated with messages that it’s time for us to show “resolve.” Time to reevaluate our lives. Time to give up something we enjoy for nebulous benefits. Time to change our appearance, our habits, ourselves.

I don’t know about you, but that’s not how I want to spend my precious time.

Self-improvement can be an empowering undertaking, but in my opinion, New Year’s Resolutions sometimes have a specific flavor of guilt and obligation that can taint our goals and interfere with our inner peace. Kind of like ending a beautiful meal with a shot of Malort - however good things started, it all just took a bitter turn. Many of the most common resolutions revolve around sacrificing a favorite food, or even an entire nutritious food group like carbohydrates. Which leads me to every brewery, bar and restaurant’s least favorite tradition: Dry January.

Before we go further, I am not a doctor, a dietician, a treatment counselor or even a Tik Tok health guru. I’m just a commercial brewer who, by virtue of her trade, is literally surrounded by alcohol 40+ hours each week. I have spent a lot of time contemplating the principle of moderation. I genuinely encourage everyone to regularly evaluate their relationship with alcohol. The choice to cut back or be sober should not require justification. If going dry for a month or more feels right to you, you have my full support.

That being said, if you choose to imbibe, I’m not convinced a month of total abstinence is your only option for a healthier relationship with booze. If you feel the same, read on for some random musings on what it means to me to be a beer enthusiast and be invested in my health.

1. The alcohol limits outlined in the US Dietary Guidelines for Americans are… kind of a bummer for anyone who’s ever enjoyed a boozy brunch or like, literally any woman who wants to have more than a single drink, like ever. (Google themI’ll wait). It’s not that hard to exceed these guidelines, especially as a woman, but it’s good to know them so you can be conscious of safe limits.

2. Our food and drink choices do not determine our morality. We are not “bad” because we chose spaghetti and wine for dinner instead of a salad and green juice. Removing words like “good” and “bad” from our nutrition choices can feel radical, but it is so freeing. Trust.

3. It’s ok to visit bars and breweries and not drink. Sometimes we just want to meet up with friends or enjoy good food or live music. Many breweries in particular have become family-friendly community hubs, with farmer’s markets, drag shows, pet adoption events, and even book fairs. Enjoying these experiences doesn’t require a drop of alcohol (which is especially good news for any children in attendance). Just keep in mind that these are small businesses, so I encourage you to support them in other ways, like buying a meal or coffee while you enjoy their space.

4. Speaking of coffee, some of my favorite area breweries offer outrageously good coffees and teas. You can just as easily enjoy a hot drink at their counter as a cold beer in their taprooms. Redemption Rock’s lattes of the month make my heart go pitter patter, and not just from the caffeine. Lost Shoe Brewing and Roasting Company in Marlborough is - you guessed it - also a coffee roastery. If you’re not familiar with the difference freshly roasted coffee can make, you are in for a treat. And in addition to beautifully complex barrel-aged beer, Wild Hare in Hudson (an experience curated by Medusa Brewing) has an extensive food and coffee menu showcasing super fresh Devoción coffee.

5.Last but not least, there are some real strides being made in the no- and low-alcohol realm. While I am not familiar with anyone in Central MA brewing non-alcoholic beer (please correct me if I’m wrong!!) Notch Brewing in Salem, known for their impeccably brewed session beers, has dipped their toes into this territory. CT-based Athletic Brewing has an extensive lineup and some of their Free Wave Hazy IPA is in my fridge right now. It’s even held up to blind taste tests with other beer industry folks.

I leave you now with my boss and head brewer’s favorite quote, adapted from Oscar Wilde: “Everything in moderation, especially moderation.” And if you disagree with everything I’ve just said, and are questioning all my credentials (what credentials?), what are you doing getting health advice from a beer column anyway? Until next time!

HUSKY'S PUB

413 PARK AVE, WORCESTER DON

PRANGE

COCKTAIL CORNER

JENNY PACILLO

If you’re looking for the perfect neighborhood bar to kick back and listen to live music, or enjoy a drink with friends, Husky’s Pub is the place to go. Located on the corner of Park Ave and May Street, Husky’s offers entertainment throughout the week, ranging from Monday movie nights to karaoke on Thursday and live bands on the weekends. When you’re there, make sure to look for Don Prange, a bartender and local musician. “It’s what a corner bar should be,” Don smiles,“you can come in, get a bite to eat and see your friends.”

Don’s specialty cocktail of choice is a pink mix of coconut rum, amaretto, and vodka mixed with fruit juices that is refreshing and packs a punch. Our conversation quickly turns to Miska and Koda, the owners’ two huskies who can often be found chilling at the bar. “They hang out, they know the regulars and if they’re bored, they just go into the office. They’re service dogs, so they even go to Polar Park for Woo Sox games, people recognize them all the time.” Swing by Husky’s and kick back with friends, cute dogs and fun nightly events.

TIME SPENT AT THYME

LUANN THIBODEAU

Nestled in the busy part of Worcester is a gem of a place, Thyme Herbal Apothecary. When I recently visited the store, located at 277 Shrewsbury Street in Worcester, I don’t know what I was more impressed with- the wonderful aroma of the herbs, the beautiful way that the place is set up, or the owners of this new business that started this year.

The enticing aroma was absolutely divine. Neatly arranged and well labeled were hundreds of jars of herbs that line the shelves of the walls. Going through the names and their individual properties, Heather, one of the two founders, was a wealth of knowledge. She spoke of not only the herbs, but of the many ways that she turns them into different products. She makes tisane, a beverage made with herbs. She also uses the herbs to make various nontoxic salves and healing rubs. And the store offers well known varieties of teas, made by a company that specializes in the making of these beverages.

The layout and design of the store gives it an attractive and homelike feel. As soon as I opened the door, I felt like I was visiting a friend’s home, and not a store. The beautiful wood floors, the brightness of the white walls, and the elegant lighting all support the feeling of home. But the thing that got to me the most was the wide array of gorgeous plants. I immediately thought of my dearly departed Mom’s house, and what an incredible feeling that was. It felt as if it was a sign from her from Heaven above. I could see her smiling down and giving this new business a thumbs up.

Heather and co-founder Britney are no strangers to health care. Both are RNs who enjoyed that work, but the overwhelming onslaught of COVID made them want to do something different. So they opened the business-something that they had always talked about doing someday- to offer a choice to folks who want a natural approach to health care that can be combined with traditional western medicine. Heather said that the medical community has been very welcoming to

them and that many of her former colleagues send folks to see them.

While I didn’t have the pleasure of meeting Britney, what more can I say about Heather. She is a wonderful lady who truly listens to what someone is saying, and doesn’t just try to sell them something because she wants the business to make money. When I first arrived, there was a gentleman there who was thoroughly pleased with his purchase and the service that he received. And when I was leaving, another customer came in, and as I continued to look around and take some pictures, I could tell that this customer was also very pleased.

But what really impressed me about Heather was her concern for some of the things that she and I talked about, not related to me being there to get the information to write this story. Her genuine care is indicative of the lady that she is. Her follow-up with a few emails concerning something that we had talked about definitely made me a customer for life. That kind of care for others is not something that is seen often in today’s business world.

The store also offers products from other locally owned businesses, who in turn, offer some of Thyme’s products. Among them are products from Hudson Hives - a honey farm located in Hudson, MA; Found Source Known- a health and beauty shop in Marlboro, MA; and Birchhouse Botanicals- a natural candle shop also located in Central MA. Thyme also works with others to offer workshops of various types, including a recently sold out one with a local iridologist.

Now if you’re ever in the area, stop in and check out the offerings of the store. In addition to the many herbs and related products, Thyme also has a beautiful sit down area that contains books and more about herbs, so that you can learn even more. What a great way to not only learn, but to enjoy the pleasant surroundings and perhaps a cup of tea or two. It will be time well spent when you visit Thyme.

STYLE Savvy

APRIL GODDARD

Happy New Year Pulse Readers! It is amazing that it is already 2023! It seems like just yesterday that we were at the start of 2022, and the year just flew by! One of the best starts of the New Year is the reset that it offers us all-goals are set, new experiences are tried, and sometimes we even like to do a little reset on our own personal style! Trying fresh trends is one of the easiest and, in my opinion, most fun parts of a fresh start. So, if you are seeking out some 2023 inspo, look no further! Read on to discover the top 5 trends that you need to try in 2023!

RED AND WARM HAIR: Red hair seems to be having a serious moment, with even those who are not naturally so taking the plunge to the fiery side. Red is versatile in that you can go vibrant and fiery, or subtle and strawberry blonde. Red-leaning highlights in brunette hair are also a pick for many who don’t want to go red all over. Or, one could go for a deep and chic auburn. Whichever way you go, take this opportunity to be unique, experiment, and have fun!

“EXPENSIVE” BRUNETTE: While we are on the topic of hair, let’s talk about the new take on brunettes. Gone are the days of the drastic balayage. 2023 is about subtle enhancement of the hair color that you naturally have (or not, but either way think subtle). Brunette enhanced with warm brown and caramel highlights throughout will help your skin glow and will look effortlessly chic on many skin tones.

MILKY METALLIC NAILS: The neutral nail trend is not going anywhere for the foreseeable future. Transparent pinks and whites with a hint of frosty metallic are all over the gram and beautytok right now. Subtle, match-any-style colors with a hint of shimmer offer a neutral elegance that anyone can rock.

FLARE LEGGINGS: We are seeing a very 2000’s trend towards flare leggings. While skin tight leggings have been all the rage for the last decade, this year will continue to see them share the spotlight with a more flared fit. One of the most popular styles to try are the “slim-flare” look, which is a pared-down and modernized version of the ultra-flared leggings of the 00’s.

TINY EARRINGS: Tiny, “constellation” earrings are staying strong through the beginning of this year. Yellow gold is particularly in, with tiny various shapes and sizes being on-trend for the foreseeable future. Keeping a consistent type of metal (white gold, silver, yellow gold) will help keep consistency amongst mismatched shapes.

OUT & ABOUT

WAVE GOODBYE TO WINTER WOES

GIULIANO D’ORAZIO

As soon as the holidays wrap up, I start to feel the gloom set in, and I know I’m not alone. Winter blues got you feeling down in the dumps? We’re in it together. As queer folx, we know all too well the struggles of combating those wintertime woes. But fear not, boo – with the right tools and a little bit of sparkle, you too can fight off those winter blues and shine brighter than moonlight on freshly fallen snow.

First things first: self-care is crucial when it comes to warding off those wintertime blues. Make sure you're eating well, staying active, and getting plenty of rest. And don't forget to treat yo'self – a little indulgence can go a long way in boosting your mood.

But let's be real – sometimes, no amount of face masks and bubble baths can chase away the wintertime sadness. That's where our chosen family comes in. Surround yourself with supportive friends and loved ones who understand and accept you for who you are. If you’re looking to reach out and build new community here in Worcester, check out the Worcester Gay Professionals monthly meetups. There’s also a few spots around town that are always welcoming and affirming, and lift my spirits whenever I go – The Woo, a gay-owned bar and grill on Shrewsbury Street never disappoints. Redemption Rock Brewing Co., also on Shrewsbury Street, is a beautiful space to meet up with friends, enjoy a craft beer or delicious cafe beverage. The MB Lounge, on Grafton Street, has Karaoke on Wednesday nights, and it’s always filled with friendly faces.

Of course, it's important to remember that seeking help for mental health issues, including seasonal depression, is a sign of strength and self-awareness. If you're struggling, don't be afraid to reach out to a mental health professional for support. And if you're worried about finding a provider who is LGBTQ+ friendly, don't hesitate to ask for referrals from trusted friends or organizations. Safe Homes, Aids Project Worcester, and Love Your Labels are a few queer-serving organizations in Worcester who may be able to connect you with resources.

Most importantly, don't forget to have a little fun! Winter may be dreary, but that doesn't mean you have to be. Go out and enjoy all the wintertime activities your heart desires – ice skating on the common, cozy meals, catch a play at the Hanover, check out my live music schedule ;) you name it. And don't forget to add a little flare to your winter wardrobe – after all, if you're going to brave the cold, you might as well do it with style. I find putting a little extra care into my appearance goes a long way towards lifting my spirits on those days when I’m just not feeling it.

So don't let the winter blues get you down, friend! With a little self-care, support from our fabulous community, and a dash of sass, together we can rise above those less than joyous feelings. Stay cozy!

Bio

Email: giulianodoraz@gmail.com Instagram: @musicbygiuliano

Giuliano D’Orazio (he/him) is a Worcester native, musician, music educator, member of the queer community, and a board member of Love Your Labels.

IN THE

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TRAVIS DUDA

Hello friends and happy New Year!

You did it! You made it through the holidays and a new year celebration. It's the obligatory time to look at your life and figure out how to make this year better than the last. Like most people I could probably benefit from losing some of my chub and flub here and there. As an avid cannabis user I too fall victim to the unfortunate side effects of our beloved herb. I've tried a few ways to combat the munchies but far too often I succumb to that intense urge to snack attack post session. Here's what works best for me. For starters I keep my cabinets filled with healthy snacks only. Well healthy-ish snacks. You define what that means for you. I feel like eating a bag of dried mango slices is better than a box of Fruit By the Foot, but by that logic eating only one bag of Doritos is better than eating two. So you do you.

But if you’re looking to just nip munchies in the bud entirely I have had some positive experience with choosing to hydrate instead of junk food. This also includes having some stuff with electrolytes like Gatorade because that seems to curb my appetite. Some people suggest gum or mints but I have definitely eaten an entire pack of Mentos and not even recognized it. One of the best things I found to trick my brain is to just straight up brush my teeth. I feel like it signals to my brain,"hey we’re not eating for a while, so deal with it". All told, I kind of lean into the munchies because I don’t really eat much during the day. So yea, I’ll keep my dried mango slices at the ready, best of luck on your adventure.

Now if you already abandoned the New Year’s Resolution, made yourself comfortable on the couch, but your jars need a resupply, may I suggest you consider Major Bloom‘s delivery service. My design studio was especially busy this holiday season and there was a day where I just could not get over to the dispensary. Thankfully Major Bloom offers a free delivery service to Worcester customers. I’ve tried some of the medicinal delivery services in the past and was less than stoked about how long it took to get my cannabis. I put my order in 45 min before they opened and Major Bloom had my delivery to my door in a couple hours. I’m a big fan of supporting local and I’m pumped when that coalesces with good service and lets me stay focused on the things that I need to do. I will most definitely be using Major Bloom‘s delivery service again in the future.

That brings you to my final point this month, what do you think about your medicinal card? Mine's up for renewal, and I’m probably going to pay the fee, however with prices becoming more and more affordable and services like Major Bloom offering free recreational delivery, the reasons to keep my med card are becoming fewer. One of the main reasons I'll probably keep it is the discount point system, but I have to believe it is only a matter of time before a similar system can be implemented on the adult use side. Ultimately I’m just trying to save some money while using my preferred pain reliever of choice. It's an expensive habit and Daddy needs his medicine. But as I sit here on my couch, eating my third bag of Doritos, and considering ordering some Newton Square Pizza and some Major Bloom, is the $200/year to keep up the card really saving me anything?

Be well and happy trails.

-Travis (@hunchbacktravis)

THE DENHOLMS LEGACY VINCENT PACIFICO

The Denholm and McKay company opened its department store for business in 1870 on the corner of Main and Mechanics Street at its former location. After just a few years of success the company moved to its new 200,000 square foot building at 484 Main Street which was perfect for a growing facility of its time. The building stood 6 stories with a beautifully ornamented Victorian styled facade, which was later converted to a modern facade featuring long bands of windows which can still be seen on the building today.

Denholms was one of the largest and most unique department stores of its kind in New England at that time. People came from all over to experience a new way of shopping and the convenience of buying all in one place. The retailer sold a wide variety of items including jewelry, clothing, kitchenware, home decor, beauty products and even a bakery making it a one stop shop. In 1963 the company had escalators installed in the building to make the customer shopping experience even easier and more enjoyable. These are said to be the first escalators ever installed in Worcester. During Christmas time, Denholms had its famous holiday tree display which lit up the facade of the building. You could see string lights from the ground floor all the way to the roof in the shape of a Christmas tree and topped with a glowing star. This tree became a tradition that was expected around the holidays and was a sight for anyone who came to see it.

Denholms was famous for its window displays especially during the holidays. The windows were large storefronts right on the sidewalk of Main Street and were typically used for advertising new lines of merchandise throughout the store. In those days, window displays would draw customers in and were one of the best forms of advertising retail. I remember my mom telling me the story that in the late 50’s around Christmas time, she would take the train with her parents from Webster up to Worcester just to see the Denholms holiday window displays and do some holiday shopping once a year. At that time it was a big event to get up to Worcester but well worth the trip.

In 1973 Denholms closed its doors for business due to bankruptcy. Nearby suburban malls, shopping outlets and large retail chains definitely brought competition to the retail store which led to its closing. Today the store is currently occupied by office and commercial tenants most of which are nonprofits. The building is in desperate need of repair and the cost to maintain the infrastructure is enormous.

In August 2022, the building was purchased by the Worcester Redevelopment Authority who released a request for proposal in hopes to work with a developer to either adapt and reuse the existing building or demolish it and build new on the site. It’s definitely a tough building to work with. The amount of repair that could go into repairing the infrastructure alone could be enormous. It’s tough to say what the greatest and best use of the building might be. One of the most needed building typologies in the city is residential but due to the buildings lack of windows and access to natural light, it may make it nearly impossible to convert into housing and its current use as an office building may be in question after the post pandemic diminished need for office space.

I think the Denholms building still has a home in downtown Worcester and should remain as a historic landmark for years to come. Just because a new use doesn’t pop out immediately doesn’t mean we should resort to tearing down another one of the city's lasting significant structures. Good planning takes time and good design doesn’t necessarily have to be more expensive. With the right project team, a developer with a vision and the support of the community, the Denholms building may have the chance to support a new generation in the city for another century.

photo source: http://denholms.blogspot.com/

KNOWS SPORTS?

Shaun2

STEPHEN NEDOROSCIK

SHAUN CONNOLLY

As we’ve touched upon before in this column, Worcester is a great sports town, even if gymnastics isn’t always what comes to mind. However, one local gymnast could possibly change that thinking. Stephen Nedoroscik is a Worcester Tech. graduate, growing up on Indian Lake. He trained at the Sterling Academy of Gymnastics and eventually attended Penn State, where he won two gold medals and a silver for the Pommel Horse in the NCAA Championships. He has competed nationally and internationally winning medals every step of the way. Most recently earning golds in the 2022 U.S. Classic and the U.S. National Championships. I sat down to talk to Stephen about his career, an upbringing in Worcester and how that may have shaped his gymnastics career.

WHEN DID YOUR LOVE OF GYMNASTICS START?

I was always a natural gymnast. Walking at 9 months and running at 1 year. I started climbing around that age as well. Everything in the house was a thing to climb, so when I was 4 years old my parents decided to put me in a club gym program. The first day I was there I climbed a 15’ rope, and within the next few days I was invited to join the team.

WAS IT ALWAYS THE POMMEL HORSE?

It wasn’t always the Pommel Horse. For a long time Parallel Bars was my favorite and best event. It wasn’t until my sophomore year in high school where my Pommel Horse abilities quickly passed that of my Parallel Bars.

WHEN DID YOU KNOW YOU MAY HAVE A SHOT AT BEING A WORLD CHAMPION?

As soon as I was named to the National Team many doors opened up for me. I knew my capabilities on the event but wasn’t sure how I would be scored internationally. After my first international assignment, Doha World Cup 2019, I realized I had serious potential internationally even though I didn’t compete the best.

WAS IT HARD GOING TO SCHOOL AND TRAINING AT A WORLD COMPETITION LEVEL?

It was definitely difficult to compete internationally and be a college student. Yet I was able to perform well in both aspects. So I suppose it was difficult but not impossible!

WHAT MADE YOU GO TO PENN STATE? HOW DID THEY FIND YOU?

I wasn’t a highly recruited athlete. I was only reached out by The Air Force Academy. I actually reached out to many schools myself and went on unofficial visits to Penn State, Ohio State, and The University of Illinois. My favorite gym was at Penn State. They had a great facility and the Pommel Horse was right at the window where anybody walking by could watch. Truly though, my decision didn’t come down to best facility, money, or academics. I decided to go to Penn State when I asked my club coach Bob Donahue “what school do you think would be best for me?” To which he replied “Penn State has always made great Pommel Horse guys” and from there I talked money with all the schools and by the end of it Penn State just stuck out to me because of what my coach said, so I committed!

HOW WOULD YOU GET MORE KIDS IN WORCESTER INTERESTED IN GYMNASTICS?

I think to get more kids interested in Gymnastics they need exposure to the sport. In today's age the only sports they see are mainstream sports. It’s unsurprising many of them will choose those mainstream sports. But if more people in Worcester knew they grew up in the same city as a World Champion, perhaps some parents with “monkey boys” would look into a gym in their vicinity.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR COMPETITION?

As I type these answers I am currently at the World Championships. My next competition will be the Winter Cup to requalify to the National Team.

WHO ARE YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCES?

I’ve never had someone to call my greatest influence. I never watched gymnastics before college. I mostly just enjoyed doing the sport. Funny enough I didn’t even know about NCAA Gymnastics until my junior year of High School. For the most part I’m motivated by my upcoming opportunities and my opponents.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO EAT IN WORCESTER?

My favorite place to eat in Worcester is definitely Lou Rocs Diner. I’m huge into breakfast meals and Lou Rocs has amazing sausage and big serving sizes. Me and my girlfriend ate there 4 years ago and she still compares breakfast sausages to theirs.

photo scredited to USA Gymnastics

NEW IN THE WOO: THE SUNDOWN

The Sundown sits on the familiar corner of 34 Green Street. The spot that for decades lured Worcester locals for a drink, perhaps the most notable establishment being The Dive Bar which closed its doors in December 2019. Since opening in June 2022, owner Sean Woods mans the bar - an artifact of yesteryears once carried down the street by locals as if they were pallbearers carrying a dear friend to a final resting spot, a story Woods retells with respect to the wood’s history.

Woods, co-owner of Worcester restaurant deadhorse hill and the since closed simjang (a casuality of the Covid-19 pandemic), brings years of expertise to The Sundown which is evident in his cocktail craftsmanship. Perfecting classics like his margarita, Woods wants patrons to come in and know they are going to get the very best version of their favorites. While there are niche bars that like to offer experimental and unique beverages, Woods wants everyone coming in to know what they’re enjoying, sans complicated and confusing ingredients. “If you’re feeling disconnected from the words on the [menu], they’re not resonating with you and your order.” Woods' offerings are unpretentious takes of old favorites, sure to bring back a memory of the drinker’s own with each sip.

Take for example, Woods’ take on a Jungle Bird - a tropical Campari cocktail. Woods' depth of knowledge informs every step. “The window of a Jungle Bird being awesome is short because the Campari dilutes and the flavor changes.” As opposed to perhaps a larger vessel with crushed ice, Woods creates a Jungle Bird featuring of course Campari and rum - he prefers Old Monk Rum - with an intense pineapple cordial and lime juice over large ice cubes in a short glass. The result is punchy, refreshing and reminiscent of warmer months.

Just as his drink menu offers a piece of his years in refining cocktails, the name itself is a piece of Woods' personal history. On a road trip during Covid-19, Woods, with a companion and puppy in tow, was driving through Kansas planning on stopping by the Bourgeois Pig, a bar owned by friend and Get Up Kids member Rob Pope. Pope expressed to Woods via text he got “slammed by sundown, but [he’s] here”. Woods, thinking Sundown must be the name of another establishment owned by Pope, started fruitlessly Googling for the address only to realize he meant sundown as in the time of day. When he connected with Pope later, both thought The Sundown would be a cool name for a bar and the idea blossomed.

Knowing the history behind the space, Woods was sure not to open something in stark contrast to its former businesses. “When the Dive Bar closed, I was bummed like everyone else… There is a hole in the heart of Worcester in the exact shape of the Dive Bar, and what I offer is not going to take that place. [But] maybe something similar can exist.” Understanding many coming to check out The Sundown may be carrying a heavy load of nostalgia with them, Woods desired for a smooth, seamless transition, taking things slow and offering a Dive staple - excellent beer - but also his

own gamut of cocktails.

When it comes to The Sundown, Woods is there to serve. “Whatever someone is in the mood for, I will gladly lead them there and hold the door for them. And I will make what they want to the absolute best of my ability.”

THE SUNDOWN IS LOCATED ON 34 GREEN STREET AND IS OPEN TUESDAY-THURSDAY, 6 P.M. - 1 A.M. AND FRIDAY AND SATURDAY, 6 P.M. - 2 A.M.

TAYLOR NUNEZ-MURRAY