Pulse Magazine by Pulse Magazine

MARCH 2018 THE GREEN ISSUE COVER STORY

FOOD+DRINK

6 Worcester’s Green Rush

30 DINING REVIEW: Sturbridge Porterhouse offers up a juicy experience

ENTERTAINMENT 10 Worcester show its green for St. Patrick

31 HOT & NOW 12 ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE MAP

ART+CULTURE

13 GAMEON: Star Wars Battlefront II charts a new path

32 Clark travels the world with International Gala

14 THE CENTRAL SCENE

SPORTS+FITNESS

15 PULSEBOOKS: March into spring with these books

34 NEW AROUND THE WOO: Fidelity Bank Worcester Ice Center

16 CLUB, PUB + GRUB LISTINGS 35 FINDINGBALANCE:

22 PULSESHOTS

Spirit Animals

LIFESTYLE

STYLE+BEAUTY

24 Avoiding the dangers of spring break 25 OUT+ABOUT: Youth Pride reaches out to younger community

36 Out with the cold, in with the new 37 STEAL THE STYLE: Say it on a sweater

26 THE LUXE LIST:

39 STYLESAVY:

Trendy tech finds

Break out the SPF

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PULSE Magazine is produced 12 times a year by Pagio Inc., 88 Winter St., Worcester, MA 01604. (508) 756-5006. Copyright 2015 All rights reserved. Pagio, Inc. does not hold itself responsible for statements made by any contributor. Statements or opinions expressed in Pulse reflect the views of the author(s) and not the official policy of the Pagio, Inc., unless so stated. Although all advertising material is expected to conform to ethical standards, acceptance does not imply endorsement by Pagio, Inc. unless so stated. Material printed in Pulse is covered by copyright. No copyright is claimed to any work of the U.S. government. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without written permission. For information on permissions, reprints and other services, contact Pagio, Inc. Also by Pagio Inc.: Worcester Medicine, Vitality Magazine, Thepulsemag.com, Thevitalitymag.com, & TasteWorcester.com

Paul Giorgio, Publisher Donna Roberson, Editor Vanessa Herbold, Art Director David Simone, Vice President, Sales Chris Reddy, Account Executive Kati Nalbandian, Marketing & Event Manager

Kim Dunbar, Sports Editor Jennifer Russo, Lifestyle Editor Kimberly Dunbar, Jennifer Russo, Jason Savio, Bernie Whitmore, Michael Wood, Paul Giorgio, Audra Brackett, Merilee Kern, John Trobaugh, Sloane Perron, Jamie Burke, Rachel Shuster, Writers

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Jason Savio / Photography by Demet Senturk

IT COULD BE A GREEN SUMMER IN WORCESTER THIS YEAR. AFTER MUCH DELIBERATION AND PLANNING, THE LEGALIZATION OF SELLING RECREATIONAL MARIJUANA IN MASSACHUSETTS IS RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER. BUT WHAT WILL THIS LOOK LIKE IN WORCESTER? WHILE NOTHING YET IS SET IN STONE, THE PICTURE IS BECOMING CLEARER AS WE APPROACH THE FINISH LINE.

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THE SUMMIT LOUNGE 116 WATER STREET WORCESTER MA 01604 774-420-2261 THESUMMITPRIVATELOUNGE.COM

WHERE WE ARE NOW Worcester voters said yes to Question 4 in 2016 — the state legalization, regulation and taxation of marijuana — by a close 55/45 margin, opening up WooTown to become commercially friendly to recreational weed for those 21 years and older. But since then, there has been much debate across the state on how to implement the new law. To sort through the confusion, the state’s Cannabis Control Commission has been tasked with developing regulations for the use of recreational and medicinal marijuana. The commission released a draft of regulations in December, outlining different recreational license categories, rules and restrictions. The goal is to have the regulations finalized by March 15, allowing for the first applications for recreational marijuana businesses to be available April 1 and setting up the possibility of licenses being issued as soon as June 1. What that means, in short, is that places like cannabis cafés and pot shops could begin popping up in town this summer. Under the new law, marijuana retailers are allowed to sell recreational marijuana products to consumers and licensed marijuana cultivators are allowed to produce and sell marijuana products to the aforementioned establishments. Among the retailer options discussed by the Cannabis Control Commission are two types of on-site social consumption licenses. The first is a primary-use license for places like a cannabis cafés, where more than 50 percent of their business is from marijuana sales. The second is a mixed-use license, where marijuana is not the primary source of income — think a massage parlor where cannabis oils would be offered or a restaurant that uses marijuana as an ingredient in some of its dishes. Home delivery of recreational marijuana is another license that is being considered (medical marijuana delivery already exists). Eight license categories in total are included in the draft regulations. The licensing process for these businesses starts at the state level, but the municipality where the business will be located will also play a role. Of course, there is still time for the current draft of regulations to change, because they are, after all, just that: a draft.

The Cannabis Control Commission traveled across the state in February to hold formal public hearings to get comments and feedback on what it has so far. Ultimately, what the commission heard could factor into any changes that need to be made before the March deadline. But the powers that be in the city of Worcester aren’t wasting any time and have already started shaping their own approach to how they intend to add recreational weed to Worcester’s neighborhoods.

WORCESTER’S WAY With the Cannabis Control Commission’s draft regulations released, officials in Worcester have started their own outline for how they plan to implement the state’s decisions at a municipal level. In a letter by City Manager Edward M. Augustus, Jr., issued to the city council, the city manager outlined his proposal of recommendations for how the new state laws will fit in Worcester. One of the choices that stands out the most is that there can be, at most, 15 recreational marijuana businesses given the green light. Augustus recommended the highest limit allowed to be no more than 20 percent of the off-premises liquor licenses, creating a cap at 15 based on the 74 off-premises alcohol licenses already here. “The first point where we as a city can say ‘no more’ is at 15,” said Jake Sanders, coordinator of intergovernmental affairs and municipal initiatives at the city manager’s office. “It would be against the legislation for us to have two and then say we’re not having anymore. We don’t have any right to say that.” The 15 licenses handed out could possibly be a mix of different types of recreational marijuana businesses based on what the Cannabis Control Commission ends up approving. “Based on our interpretation (of the draft regulations) that all fits under that 15 number,” said Sanders of the various licenses. “There will be 15 entities in the city, and maybe one

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of them will have a delivery component, one of them will be a dispensary retailer, so the thought is it will be just the 15. The makeup of those 15 slots — because of the different licenses people can apply for — it’s unclear right now what the breakdown of those 15 will be in terms of the type of license granted by the state.” If you want to get green, though, you’re going to have to pay up. Under the new state law, the maximum tax rate on the retail sale of cannabis is 20 percent. Making up that 20 percent is an existing 6.25 percent state sales tax and a state excise tax of 10.75 percent, leaving an optional 3 percent municipal tax provision left over. And, yes, Worcester has decided to accept that offer and include it in your fee. And if you want to open your own pot place, you’re going to have to dig deep in your pockets, too. The new state regulations force both recreational and medicinal marijuana establishments to fulfill a “host community agreement” that can includes a “community impact fee” if the town decides to pursue it. The fee can be no more than 3 percent of the gross sales of the business. Worcester will be looking to collect on this as well, according to the city manager’s letter. There is obvious concern about the addition of recreational pot shops, one of which is its impact on neighborhoods and children. The Cannabis Control Commission is leaving it up to the towns to decide on acceptable places for these marijuana businesses to open shop, and the city manager has recommended zoning restrictions to keep them from being within 300 feet of schools, the same rule that already applies to medicinal marijuana facilities. Sanders noted that while the city council has tentatively approved most of these recommendations, there won’t be any real progress made until the Cannabis Control Commission issues their final regulations. “There won’t be any true movement until the state finalizes things,” he said.

RECREATIONAL VS. MEDICINAL MARIJUANA With recreational marijuana entities about to roll into Worcester, where does that leave the medicinal shops, or shops that sell product to grow your own? There are four

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companies that have provisional licenses to open medical marijuana dispensaries in Worcester, but none have opened yet. Now, with the recreational date looming, they have what some might see as competition about to enter the game. But that’s not the case if you ask those already in it. Medicinal facilities should remain unworried, since the majority of patients who seek them out are in search of something different than casual recreational users, according to Peter DeCaro, CEO of the yet-to-be-opened Medicinal Alternatives, Inc. Whereas recreational smokers are — to put it bluntly (pun intended) — looking to get high, medicinal users are not. They therefore have no need for the high-delivering compound THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). Instead, medicinal smokers want CBD (cannabidiol), a compound in the marijuana plant proven to deliver relief for various ailments without the side effects of getting stoned. Medical marijuana facilities are able to cater to these people by supplying strains that have little-to-no trace of THC and instead emphasize CBD. Ken Helinski is operations manager at Green Zone Hydroponics and Supplies, a onestop shop for gardening supplies needed to grow cannabis. Helinski said that right now business is good and he isn’t concerned about what the inclusion of recreational shops might bring. “There will always be people who will want to grow the product on their own because it will be only a fraction of the cost that a dispensary will charge,” he said. “The dispensary will probably be $300-$350 an ounce, whereas, you can grow that at your house for only $40 an ounce.” As for the medicinal side of things, Helinksi, who says he has been benefitting from cannabis for medical purposes for more than 30 years, thinks those businesses will also be fine. “The plant is an amazing beneficial plant in many, many areas,” said Helinski. “I know people who have gotten rid of most of their prescription drugs, if not all of them, just by using cannabis on a daily basis. It’s not just smoking to get high. It’s using the product

in an edible form — or even the CBD part of the plant that benefits the body — and there is zero high associated with it, and a lot of the time, people don’t understand that.” Clinical and scientific research suggests that CBD can help treat conditions such as diabetes, PTSD, arthritis and depression. CBD is also being studied for its potential as an anti-cancer drug, according to a 2013 article published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology. DeCaro is a cancer survivor who champions the positives he believes come from medicinal marijuana. “Having used the product for my own ailments, I certainly recognize the benefits of it, and that’s part of where my passion comes from — to help apply these benefits to other patients seeking alternative forms of relief, particularly from opiates,” said DeCaro. But from a business standpoint, there is a tinge of concern DeCaro feels with welcoming recreational businesses. “Am I concerned that some stores will hurt the market and prolong the stigma associated with marijuana?” he asked. “I guess I’m concerned, but I trust those of us that are in the industry that we’re all seeking to do the right thing in delivering the highest level of product and service delivery. And I see the two markets being different.” Helinksi, meanwhile, hasn’t ruled out trying his luck at applying for a recreational selling license. “It’s definitely something we’re thinking about,” he said.

ON THE HORIZON There is still much work to be done before we see any sort of recreational weed shops or businesses in town later this year. Hiccups and unforeseen obstacles will likely appear, causing more doubt and concern. What will this mean for the black market? Will this change the overall outlook on marijuana as a gateway drug? Only time will tell. Helinski, for his part, thinks it will be good for Worcester. “Just having a safe product that people can go and purchase, and you don’t have to go to the black market — it’s tested, so you know that the product is safe — I think that’s very important and just everything else that comes along with the legal industry,” he said. “There are huge benefits throughout the whole system.”

4/20 IN 508 From London to Jerusalem, Jamaica, to D.C. every year, cannabis enthusiasts gather to celebrate the cannabis holiday 4/20. The origins of 4/20, celebrated every year on April 20, remain a mystery. Some people believe that the name 4/20 comes from the California police code for “smoking in progress.” Others believe that it’s named after the 420 active chemicals in marijuana – though there are actually 500. The most solid story to date is that 4/20 originated from a group of high school students in the 1970s who smoked every day at 4:20 p.m., which led the ritual to spread and become an annual celebration. Whatever the origins are, there is no doubt that this counter-culture cannabis holiday has spread into the mainstream. While for some 4/20 is a day to get high and have fun, others see the day as an opportunity to highlight the push for legalization. In some cities, 4/20 is celebrated by a gathering of those who use marijuana in public places, but in Worcester, the focus seems to be on public education and business opportunities. There will be a Cannabis Grower Spring Mixer hosted by the Massachusetts Grower Advocacy Council in Worcester at 6 p.m. April 7 at the Worcester Lodge of Elks, 233 Mill St., Worcester. The organizers promise information on how to become a licensed cannabis cultivator or processor. Tickets start at $10. For more information, visit massgrower.org. — Kaiomi Inniss

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ENT ERTA IN M E N T

WORCESTER SHOWS ITS GREEN FOR ST. PATRICK Maxine Giza

IT’S TIME TO BREAK OUT THE GREEN ATTIRE, SHAMROCKS AND BEER IN PREPARATION FOR ST. PATRICK’S DAY — THE DAY EVERYONE IS IRISH! YOU DON’T HAVE TO TREK OUT TO BOSTON OR HOLYOKE TO ENJOY A FABULOUS DAY, AS THE WORCESTER COUNTY ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE HAS NOW BEEN A TRADITION IN THE CITY FOR 36 YEARS. You can get your fix of everything Irish, as Worcester is known for putting on quite the celebration. From parades to races, there is a little something for everyone. “It’s a fun, family day, and it’s just a great atmosphere,” said Mary Ellen Murphy, chairman of the parade committee. “Everyone is happy. It’s a joyful time to be with your kids.” Headlining this year’s parade festivities will be Grand Marshal Bill Riley. Riley manages the St. John’s Food for the Poor Program at St John’s Catholic Church in Worcester. According to the organization’s website, volunteers serve as many as 700 meals a day. Other program offerings include a free medical clinic and job matching. In order to be bestowed with the honor of being named Grand Marshal, candidates must be of Irish descent and perform good deeds for the community. A committee consisting of past Grand Marshals and parade organizers cast ballots. Nominees and past winners have come from a variety of backgrounds over the years.

floats to make their way through. Dan O’Neill, of The Press Box, earned the title of Parade Mayor this year and will kick things off with the blow of a whistle. You may be wondering how the Parade Mayor is chosen; in a fundraising contest, local businesses and individuals donate money to the parade, and whoever raises the most money is named Parade Mayor. Another tradition that will continue is the honoring of several other community members. This year, those being recognized are Mayor Joseph Petty (Cathy Donahue Good Neighbor Award), William White (Agnes Sheehan Community Award), John Hinson ( Judy Wilkinson Award) and Theresa Trainor (Virginia Boulay Award). At the end of the parade, revelers should be on the lookout for the Emerald Club beer tent. The Emerald Club is an organization that helps mentally challenged adults and children. The fundraising helps the group provide services to those in need. Groups ranging from Celtic bands and high school students to The Worcester Fire and Police departments participate in the parade. Of course, the parade wouldn’t be complete without honoring our veterans, as well. “Any veteran is welcome in the parade,” said Murphy. “They need to be recognized for their sacrifice.”

“Mr. Riley is kind of your average Joe. He’s just out there helping anyone who needs help,” said Murphy. “Anybody and everybody he helps.”

In addition to Murphy, about 20 people make up the parade committee, which raises approximately $60,000 every year to put on the St. Patrick’s Day celebration. Not only do the group’s efforts result in memorable events, but it also helps local schools. “We pay all the bands in the parade,” said Murphy. “That helps the high school kids support their music. The school systems themselves don’t have money to support that like they used to.”

Floats will begin rolling down Park Avenue at noon and make their way to Elm Park, leaving plenty of spots available along the parade route to catch the action. There are numerous restaurants dotting the streets, making for several opportunities to find the perfect place to gather with friends and loved ones for lunch or a drink (or two!). The route is approximately three miles, and it takes about an hour and a half for the

While the St. Patrick’s Day Parade obviously has its roots in Irish heritage, the celebration has become very inclusive over the years and Spanish, Italian and Vietnamese groups have also become fixtures in the festivities. “The Shriners come from Springfield and put on quite the performance with their cars and tractors and motorcycles,” said Murphy. “We had Chinese dragons last year from the Vietnamese community, and it was great.”

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ST. PATRICK’S FESTIVITIES: Pulse Magazine will host a pre-parade pub crawl along Shrewsbury Street from 2-5:30 p.m. March 10. Tickets are $20. Visit stpatrickspubcrawl.org for tickets. The St. Patrick’s Day festivities expand beyond the parade. In an event similar to the well-known event in Boston, the Political Breakfast Roast will be held March 10 from 9-11 a.m. at the Worcester Hibernian Cultural Center. It’s a morning full of political jabs and entertainment. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased by contacting Mary Ellen Murphy at chairman@stpatsparade.com or Jim Browne at jimbrownejr@gmail.com. The weekend isn’t just for getting your beer fix. Those looking for a healthier option, or at least a way to burn off calories from an indulgent weekend, should consider partaking in the annual 5K road race. The Guinness Celtic 5K starts at 11 a.m. March 11 at the intersection of Elm Park and Highland streets. You can register online at celtic5k.com. The St. Patrick’s Day Parade runs along Park Avenue beginning Sunday, March 11, at noon. For more information, visit stpatsparade.com.

VENUES ALONG THE PARADE ROUTE: 1. El Basha 2. Saki Bomb 3. Park Grill 4. Loft 266 5. Leitrims 6. Smokey Joes & Rumors 7. Whiskey Tango 8. Brewski’s Pub 9. Beatnik’s 10. Peppercorns 11. Blarney Stone 12

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ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE MAP

GAMEON: Star Wars Battlefront II charts a new path

Jason Savio Sequels rarely surpass their predecessor, but the follow up to 2015’s Star Wars Battlefront does exactly that. The Star Wars Battlefront of two years ago was no joke — it brought the fun and excitement you would expect of a game that takes place a long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away. It was, however, a tunnel-vision effort, with the majority of the gameplay focused on tedious and repetitive online multiplayer maps and challenges. With Battlefront II, we have a much more fully immersive and realized Star Wars experience that offers the familiar while introducing a new and exciting narrative to the story’s canon. You don’t need Jedi powers to see that the biggest difference with this addition to the series is the newly added campaign mode that showcases a whole new story that gels with the films. Picking up moments after the end of Return of the Jedi, Battlefront II explores more of the fresh storytelling ground that takes place between the final film in George Lucas’ original trilogy and the sequel trilogy currently in theaters. Playing as Iden Versio, leader of the Empire’s special operations team, Inferno Squad, you’re tasked with carrying out a secret mission. The best part about this is we get to see the fallout of Episode VI from the Empire’s perspective, as its commanders scramble to figure out how to respond to the Emperor’s demise and the destruction of the second Death Star. As Versio, you get to infiltrate Rebel ships and have hallway shootouts in classic Star Wars-style, in between piloting your tie-fighter and blowing x-wings out of the sky. New worlds are waiting for you to explore, sometimes as Versio and sometimes as someone you already know very well. The controls are relatively easy to control, and you can seamlessly switch between first-person and third-person viewpoints. Collecting cards in-game that allow you to choose characters’ abilities and strengths come in handy, especially in the other modes the game has to offer. Despite the added campaign mode, online multiplayer is still a very large component of Battlefront II, including Heroes vs. Villains mode — in which two teams of four battle it out — and Starfighter Assault (basically the former but in space). Arcade mode is a standout. You can choose to play the solo option that places you in battle scenarios from all the different eras of Star Wars, usually in a race against time as you try to take out a set number of enemies. No characters are off limits, so be ready to finally embrace the dark side as Darth Maul and wipe out a slew of Republic clones. On the flip side, you may also get stuck playing as a droid from the prequel trilogy. Star Wars Battlefront II is a big step in the right direction for the franchise. While at times it still feels like it’s not fully sure of what it wants to be, it does an exceptional job of paying tribute to classic characters and places while also expanding the universe. For more information, visit ea.com/games/starwars/battlefront/battlefront-2.

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THINGS TO DO: MARCH 2018 STEPPING OUT Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and step into the sights and sounds of Irish culture! The worldrenowned Dublin Irish Dance group will be performing traditional Irish step dance, while highlighting the evolution of Irish music and dance. 4 p.m. March 11; Mechanics Hall, 321 Main St., Worcester; ticket prices vary; musicworcester.org

HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS Bring the entire family out for an action-packed night with the Harlem Globetrotters! This performance basketball team stops in Worcester to showcase its amazing skills on the court. Stay after the show to snap a picture with the team. 7 p.m. March 9 and 1 p.m. March 10; DCU Center, 50 Foster St., Worcester; ticket prices vary; harlemglobetrotters.com

INTRO TO HYDROPONICS WORKSHOP Interested in growing your own vegetables year-round? Sign up to take this hydroponics class and learn the basics of growing vegetables, herbs and flowers in an innovative and sustainable way. 1 p.m. March 25; Tower Hill Botanic Garden, 11 French Drive, Boylston; $10 for members, $20 for non-members; towerhill.org.

WORCESTER RESTAURANT WEEK Fill your appetite without emptying your wallet! The winter edition of Worcester Restaurant Week will run through March 10. Worcester Restaurant Week allows people to sample food from a wide variety of Worcester’s best restaurants without breaking the bank. Participating restaurants lower their prices and create a special menu, offering a three-course meal for only $25.18. Through March 10; participating restaurants around Worcester; $25.18; worcesterrestaurantweek.com.

THE WORCESTER MUSIC AWARDS The nominations are in, and now it’s time to vote for your favorite bands! The awards will be presented at the Worcester Music Awards show in April, but we’re asking for you to vote for your favorite bands now. Voting will close at the end of March. It’s easy; just hop online and vote for who you think should be recognized this year. More info at worcestermusicawards.com.

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PULSEBOOKS: March into spring with these books Kimberly Dunbar The sign of a good book is its ability to make you feel. The sign of a great author is his or her ability to, through words, make you ugly cry. Lisa Genova, neuroscientist and author, has a track record of producing novels that single-handedly keep Kleenex in business. This month, Genova releases her latest book, Every Note Played (Scout Press), in which she introduces us to Richard, a world-renowned pianist whose life falls apart when he is diagnosed with ALS. Richard seems to love the piano more than anything, including his ex-wife and daughter, so when ALS quickly begins to ravage Richard’s body, he is robbed not just of his ability to play the piano, but also of his identity. At the end of his life, Richard is forced to re-evaluate and come to terms with his past and present. Through Richard, Genova is able to give readers a glimpse of the struggles, as well as the emotional and physical effects of ALS, as she has done other neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s. Kristin Hannah’s latest novel, The Great Alone (St. Martin’s Press), is a powerful tale of resilience, survival and the human spirit. Ernt Allbright, a Vietnam War POW, is a changed man when he returns home, and his constant nightmares, drinking and inability to hold a job makes him a mean man. After a fellow POW leaves Ernt his land in Alaska, the Allbrights — Ernt, Cora and their 13-yearold daughter Leni — head north in search of a new beginning. The Allbrights learn to live off the grid with the help of a tight-knit community; the isolation and simplicity of Alaska seems to serve the family well. However, when winter approaches, Ernt’s behavior worsens and Cora and Leni must not only learn to survive the Alaskan wilderness, but the darkness of their own home. As Leni grows into an independent woman, she must balance her burdens with the life she longs to live. Hannah’s novel is a page-turner and will keep you up (I saw 3 a.m. one night) as you join the Allbrights in their adventures in love, loss and survival. You might learn a lot about Alaska after reading Hannah’s book, but Mark Bailey’s Nine Irish Lives: The Thinkers, Fighters and Artists Who Helped Build America (Algonquin) is a stroll through American history. This book is a compilation of essays — written by famous Irish Americans like Pierce Brosnan, Rosie O’Donnell and Michael Moore — that examine the lives of lesser-known Irish immigrants who had a positive impact on the United States. Learn about the original muckraker, Samuel McClure, whose honest journalism helped inspire political reform; Margaret Haughery, whose love of children earned her the nickname the “Mother of the Orphans”; and Albert Cashier, a transgender Civil War soldier. So while you’re out this St. Patrick’s Day, raise an extra glass for these nine Irish men and women who were living proof that immigrants can be an asset to the United States.

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CLUB+PUB+GRUB LISTINGS ENTERTAINMENT AT CLUBS, BARS, PUBS & OTHER SELECT VENUES 435 Bar & Grill 435 Lancaster St., Leominster March 3: Andy Fichtel March 9: Whitney Doucet March 10: Lizzy Marquis March 16: Ethan Caouette March 23: Matt Soper March 24: Amanda Cote March 30: Heather Ralston March 31: James Keyes Art’s Diner 541 W. Boylston St., Worc. B-Man’s 140 Tavern 348 Redemption Rock Trail, Sterling 140pub.com March 4: Riff-Raff March 31: Fellowship of the King (Elvis Tribute) The Banner Bar & Grille 112 Green St., Worc. thebannerbar.com Barber’s Crossing Road House 861 Main St., Leicester barberscrossingrestaurant.com March 31: Bret Talbert Barbers Crossing (North) 175 Leominster Road, Sterling barberscrossingrestaurant.com Thursdays: Open Mic Fridays: Bill McCarthy March 3: Scott Babineau March 10: Ron Williams March 17: Left-Right March 24: Ken Macy March 31: Bill McCarthy Beatnik’s 433 Park Ave., Worc. beatniksbeyou.com Thursdays: Center Stage Karaoke March 7: Wednesday Night Mayhem March 10: Sun Joes & Nikki Howard March 11: Saint Patrick’s Day Parade Beemer’s Pub & Grill 310 Main St., Fitchburg beemerspub.com Billy’s Pub 81 Clinton St., Shrewsbury

March 29: Amanda Cote March 30: The Middlemen March 31: Brother Maynard Bolton Street Tavern 587 Bolton St., Marlborough boltonstreettavern.com Boulder Cafe 880 Main St., Fitchburg Breakaway Billiards 104 Sterling St., Clinton March 17: Synergy March 23: Devil Inside (INXS Tribute) Brew City 104 Shrewsbury St., Worc. brew-city.com Bull Run Restaurant 215 Great Road, Shirley bullrunrestaurant.com March 3: Christine Lavin and Don White March 8: Samantha Fish March 15: Phil Vassar March 16: The Everly Brothers Experience with The Zmed Brothers March 17: St. Patrick›s Day with The Kelly Girls March 18: The Fabulous Thunderbirds March 23: Invisible Sun ( Police Tribute) March 24: Jeff Pitchell’s Legends w Michael Allman, Tyrone Vaughan & Claudette King March 30: The Adam Ezra Group March 31: Brooks Williams Cafe Destare 320 Main St., Fitchburg destare.com Canal Restaurant & Bar 65 Water St., Worc. Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays: DJ (21+) March 3: Alias March 9: Bob Moon March 10: Round Midnight March 16: Mychael David & Howie Sweet March 17: Connor Bird March 22: Jewelry Making with Lisa Marie March 23: Joe Macey March 24: New England Weather March 30: Jim Perry

Compass Tavern 90 Harding St., Worc. thecompasstavern.com Fridays, Saturdays: DJs March 9: FM Live March 16: Chris Reddy - Irish Night March 23: Jay Graham March 30: Johnny Taylor Cosmopolitan Club 96 Hamilton St., Worc. The Cove Music Hall 89 Green St., Worc. thecovemusichall.com Thursdays: Thursday Night Band Wars March 3: Everybody Wants Some (VH Tribute) with Deep 6 March 10: Trendkill (Pantera Tribute) with Led to Believe March 10: Let it Bleed (Rolling Stones Tribute ) March 16: Born to Party in the ‹90s Dance Party March 17: Bullet Called Life (System of a Down Tribute) March 23: The Country Mile March 24: Kip Winger March 30: Darkness for Light: A Benefit for Kim Cote March 31: The Flock Dance Ranch & Saloon 70 James St., Worc. danceranchandsaloon.com Days End Tavern 287 Main St., Oxford daysendtavern.com Devens Grill 4 Ryans Way, Devens devensgrill.com Electric Haze 26 Millbury St, Worc. March 9: William Thompson Funk Experiment with Slurp Fiddlers’ Green Pub & Restaurant 19 Temple St., Worc. fiddlersgreenworcester.com Firefly’s / Dante’s 350 E. Main St., Marlborough fireflysbbq.com Flip Flops 680 Main St., Holden flipflopsma.com Fridays, Saturdays: Live Acoustic March 30: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell

Black Sheep Tavern 261 Leominster Road, Sterling Fridays, Saturdays: Live Music March 17: St. Patrick’s Day Bash with Chris Reddy

Chopstick’s Restaurant & Lounge 21 Commercial Road, Leominster chopsticksleominster.com March 30: Riff Raff March 31: Riff Raff

Blackstone Tap 81 Water St., Worc. blackstonetap.com

Christopher’s Pub 7 Pleasant St., Leominster

Flying Rhino Cafe 278 Shrewsbury St., Worc. flyingrhinocafe.com

Cicero’s Cafe 17 Suffolk St., Worc.

Forty’s 1030 Central St., Leominster

Classic’s Pub 285 Central St., Leominster classicspub.net Sundays, Wednesdays, Thursdays: Karaoke with Royal Crown

Frank’s 274 Shrewsbury St., Worc.

Blue Plate Lounge 661 Main St., Holden Blueprint New American Bar & Grill 9 Village Square, Westminster March 3: Michael Spaulding March 8: Dan Cormier March 9: Brian Chaffee March 10: Dan Kirouac with special guest Steve Caisse March 15: Ken Macy March 16: Whitney Doucette March 17: St Patrick›s Day with Tribe March 22: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell March 23: Tim & Lou March 24: Scott Babineau

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Club KasBar 234 Southwest Cutoff, Worc. Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays: Karaoke March 16: Fellowship of the King (Elvis Tribute) The Columbia Tavern 28 Manning Ave., Leominster

Funky Murphy’s Bar & Grill 305 Shrewsbury St., Worc. funkymurphys.com Gardner Ale House 74 Parker St., Gardner gardnerale.com Sundays: Jazz Brunch Mondays: Blue Mondays Thursdays: Audio Wasabi Fridays, Saturdays: Live music March 26: HiFi Wards

The GazBar Sports Grill 1045 Central St., Leominster thegazbar.com March 3: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell March 8: Amanda Cote March 9: Mike Freestone March 10: Dustin Brideau March 15: Heather Ralston March 16: Dean Dimarzio March 17: Scott Babineau March 22: Dan Cormier March 23: Mike Melendez March 24: Jim Weeks March 29: Joe Macey March 30: Zack Marquis March 31: Ricky Booth Greendale’s Pub 404 W. Boylston St., Worc. greendalespub.com Sundays: Blues Jam, Meat Raffle Tuesdays: Open Mic with Bill McCarthy; Local Musicians Showcase Wednesdays: Wack Wednesdays Jam Night Thursdays: Karaoke Halligan’s Sports Bar and More 889 Southbridge St., Auburn halliganssportsbarandmore.com Happy Jack’s 785 North Main St., Leominster March 3: Lost Artifacts March 9: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell March 16: Dustin Brideau March 17: St Patrick›s Day bash March 23: Lizzy Marquis March 24: Steve Foley March 30: Johnny Girouard March 31: Scott Babineau Hotel Vernon - The Ship Room/Kelley Square Yacht Club 1 Millbury St., Worc. Indian Ranch 200 Gore Road, Webster indianranch.com Industry Bar Room 109 Water St., Worc. industrybarroom.com Ixtapa Cantina 308 Massachusetts Ave., Lunenburg ixtapacantina2.com JJ’s Sports Bar and Grill 380 Southwest Cutoff, Northborough jbag.biz Mondays: Jazz Night Legends Airport Road, Fitchburg Leitrim’s Pub 265 Park Ave., Worc. leitrimspub.com Loft 266 Bar & Lounge 266 Park Ave., Worc. loft266.com Marty’s Pub 225 Canterbury St., Worc. martyspub.com MB Lounge 40 Grafton St., Worc. mblounge.com Sundays: Seasonal Martini Sundays Mondays: Industry Night with Keith Continued on Page 21

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Continued from Page 18

Tuesdays: Throw Back Tuesdays with Andy R. Wednesdays: Karaoke with Mikey Mics Thursdays: Drinks with Superman Shawn Fridays, Saturdays: Guest and House DJs McNally’s Grille & Pub 88 Sargent Road, Westminster Medusa Brewing Company 111 Main St., Hudson medusabrewing.com March 3: Three-Year Anniversary Party with Fellowship of The King & Blue Light Bandits March 8: Open Mic Night March 9: The Brother Stereo March 10: Jay Graham March 16: Mike Melendez March 17: Cara Brindisi March 22: Open Mic Night March 23: Of Tomorrow March 24: Joe Sambo March 25: Jazzed Up Trio March 30: Dave Brunyak March 31: Graham Brown Michael’s Cigar Bar 1 Exchange Place, Worc. michaelscigar.com March 3: Reckless March 4: Mike Melendez March 7: Ricky Duran March 8: Jim Devlin March 9: Fellowship of the King (Elvis Tribute) March 10: Abraxas March 14: Dezi Garcia March 15: Chris Reddy Irish Loops from Hell March 16: Jodee & The Unfaithful March 17: Bittersuite March 21: Ricky Duran March 23: Jodee & Brian Duo March 23: Neon Alley March 24: Doctor Robert March 28: Dezi Garcia March 29: Brett Brumby March 30: Brumbletones March 31: Blue Light Bandits

March 31: Dustin Brideau Moynihan’s Pub 897 Main St., Worc. The Muse 536 Main St., Worc. Nick’s Bar and Restaurant 124 Millbury St., Worc. March 24: Little Red & The Riders March 30: HiFi Wards The Nines Neighborhood Bar 136 Millbury St., Worc. Oak Barrel Tavern 229 Grove Ave., Worc. oakbarreltavernworcester.com Olde Post Office Pub 1 Ray St., N. Grafton On The Rocks Sports Bar & Grill 96 Lakefront Ave., Lunenburg The Outlook at Nashoba Valley 79 Powers Road, Westford Saturdays: Chris Reddy 3-5 p.m. Oxford Tavern 314 Main St., Oxford Padavano’s Place 358 Shrewsbury St., Worc. padavanosplace.com Thursdays: Karaoke with Matty J March 3: Sara Leketa and Lisa Addario of Aerochix March 9: Drunken Uncles March 10: 19th Nervous Breakdown (Rolling Stones Tribute) March 16: Three of a Kind March 17: St. Patrick›s Day featuring Dock 10 (band debut) March 23: Take Two March 24: Auntie Trainwreck March 30: Cara Brindisi March 31: The Grants featuring Paul LiRange from Down East

Mickey Sheas 324 Electric Ave., Lunenburg

Paisanos Pizza & Spirits 450 Lancaster St., Leominster

The Mill 185 185 W. Boylston St., W. Boylston themill185.com March 3: Katie O›Brien Duo March 8: Josh Briggs March 9: Jay Graham March 10: Chris Reddy Irish Night Pre-Parade Bash March 15: Cara Brindisi March 16: Chad Clements March 17: Riff Raff March 22: Amanda Cote March 23: Belit March 24: Jodee & Brian March 29: Josh Briggs March 30: FM Live March 31: Joe Macey

The Palladium 261 Main St., Worc. thepalladium.net

Mill Street Brews (@ The Artist Development Complex) 18 Mill St., Southbridge millstreetbrews.com The Monument Tap 13 Central St., Leominster monumenttap.com March 3: Left-Right March 8: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell March 9: Cailte Kelly March 10: Amanda Cote March 16: Arthur James March 17: Dave Gordon March 23: Chris Terp March 24: Left-Right March 30: Ron Williams

Park Grill and Spirits 257 Park Ave., Worc. Sundays: Open Mic Fridays, Saturdays: Dick’s Beantown Comedy Escape March 2: Bob Moon March 3: Rick Hamel March 9: Highway Kind March 10: Jim Carnazza Blues Trio March16: Ric Porter & Friends March 17: Highway Kind March 18: The Flock of A-Holes March 23: Drunkin’ Uncles March 24: Terry Blackwell March 30: TBA March 31: The Marceau Project Partner’s Pub 970 South St., Fitchburg partnerspub.com Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays: Karaoke Saturdays: Live music March 3: Lost Artifacts March 17: Sean Daley & The Hooligans March 24: Twin City All-Stars Patsie Dugan’s 49 Millbury St., Worc. patsiedugans.com Pho Dakao 593 Park Ave., Worc.

The Pint 58 Shrewsbury St., Worc. Point Breeze On the Lake 114 Point Breeze Road, Webster pointbreezeonwebsterlake.com Press Box 536 Lincoln St., Worc. March 11: Post-Parade Party with Chris Reddy March 17: St. Patrick’s Day with Kryngle Daly Quinn’s Irish Pub 715 W. Boylston St., Worc. quinnsirishpub.com March 3: Cara Brindisi, Adam Makes Noise March 4: Kevin Shields March 7: Brett Brumby March 8: John Brazile March 9: Josh Briggs March 10: The Brennan Brothers March 11: John Brazile March 15: DJ Mark Senior March 16: Terry Brennan March 18: Brian Twohey March 21: Brett Brumby March 22: John Brazile March 23: Josh Briggs March 24: Fergus, Kevin Shields March 25: Mike Melendez March 28: Chris Reddy March 29: Brian Twohey March 30: Sam James March 31: Brett Brumby

Co. March 30: Dave Harrington March 31: Honky Tonk Hangover Speakers Night Club 19 Weed St., Marlborough speakersnightclub.net Saturdays: Live bands Spruce Street Tavern 68 Spruce St., Clinton sprucestreettavern.com Stagecoach Inn and Tavern 128 Main St., Groton grotonstagecoachinn.com Sunset Tiki Bar/The Outlook 79 Powers Road, Westford The Tavern on Central 3 Central St., Ashburnham thetavernoncentral.com Three G’s Sports Bar 152 Millbury St., Worc. 3gs-sportsbar.com Thursdays: Open Mic Fridays: Karaoke Union Tavern 65 Green St., Worc. Upper Deck Sports Bar & Grille 377 Stetson Road, Barre upperdecksportsbarandgrille.com

Ralph’s Chadwick Square Diner 148 Grove St., Worc. ralphsrockdiner.com March 17: The Sort of Late Show with Shaun Connolly

Valentino’s Press & Pour 154 Shrewsbury St., Worc.

The Raven 258 Pleasant St., Worc. Wednesdays: Open Mic

Vincent’s Bar 49 Suffolk St., Worc. Tuesdays: Boogie Chillin’ March 19: Hip Swayers Deluxe! March 24: Fellowship of the King (Elvis Tribute)

Red Onion - Otter River Hotel 29 Main St., Baldwinville Rocky’s 139 Water St., Worc. Rumors 371 Park Ave., Worc. clubuniverseworcester.com Rye & Thyme 14 Monument Square, Leominster ryeandthyme.com March 3: Bees Deluxe March 4: Sunday Brunch with Owen Ross March 8: Brian Chaffee March 9: Sean Daley & The Hooligans March 10: Mint March 11: Sunday Brunch with Zack Slik March 15: Amanda Cote March 16: Scott Babineau March 17: New Pond Fondle March 22: Sean Fullerton and his Mad Loops Laboratory March 23: Ambient Sojourn March 24: Trebek March 25: Sunday Brunch with Jon Short March 29: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell March 30: Hot Mess Sean Patrick’s Family Restaurant 494 Electric Ave., Lunenburg seanpatricksrestaurant.com South Side Grille & Margarita Factory 242 W. Broadway, Gardner southsidemargaritafactory.com March 3: Laquerhead March 9: Amanda Cote March 10: Backstreet Zero March 16: Danny LeBlanc March 17: St Patrick’s Day with Electric Green

Victory Bar & Cigar 56 Shrewsbury St., Worc. victorycigarbar.com

Whiskey Hookah Lounge 316 Main St., Worc. Whiskey on Water 97 Water St., Worc. whiskeyonwater.com Sundays, Wednesdays: Karaoke with DJ Soup Thursdays: DJ Cuzn Kev March 3: Travelling Wanna B’s, DJ KG (upstairs) March 9: Sam James March 10: Gunpowder & Lead, DJ Ayeoo Romero (upstairs) March 16: Hit the Bus March 17: Eric Narwahl, DJ Xcaliber (upstairs) March 23: TBD March 24: Tequila Bonfire, DJ Rivas (upstairs) March 30: Alex 2E Duo March 31: Mocking Birds, DJ Screwloose (upstairs) Whistle Stop Bar & Grill 85 Main St., Oxford StopByTheWhistle.com White Eagle Polish Club 112 Green St., Worc. Wednesdays: Karaoke with DJ M Thursdays: DJ M William’s Restaurant & Tavern 184 Pearson Blvd., Gardner williamsrestaurantandtavern.com Wonder Bar Restaurant 121 Shrewsbury St., Worc. Ye Olde Tavern 7 E. Main St., W. Brookfield westbrookfieldtavern.com

thepulsemag.com

BY JUSTIN PERRY

COMPASS TAVERN – WORCESTER

FUNKY MURPHY’S – WORCESTER

MICHAEL’S CIGAR BAR – WORCESTER

THE PINT – WORCESTER

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PARK GRILL & SPIRITS – WORCESTER

435 BAR & GRILLE – LEOMINSTER

WHISKEY ON WATER – WORCESTER

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LI F ESTY LE

AVOIDING THE DANGERS OF SPRING BREAK Every year between March and April, millions of people across the country prepare to take off on spring break vacations to popular destinations like Las Vegas, Panama City Beach and Cabo San Lucas. While spending time away from your busy life and basking in the sun sounds great, there are numerous spring break dangers that can occur while in your blissful state, such as becoming prey for local assailants, drinking too much and venturing into dangerous parts of town. Below are some tips from Krav Maga Worldwide, a global leader in personal defense training, on what you can do to have a safe and enjoyable spring break.

RESEARCH, PLAN AND RESEARCH SOME MORE. You can never be too

safe when it comes to picking your vacation destination, which hotel you will be staying at and the activities you will be doing. Research any recent criminal activities that have happened in the city you have your eye on and check user review sites for actual guests’ opinions on hotels and activities. It’s also important to note and keep in mind where the closest hospital and police station is in relation to where you’ll be staying.

EQUIP YOURSELF WITH LIFESAVING KNOWLEDGE.

Before hitting the open road or boarding a plane to your destination, make self-defense training a part of your preparations. Krav Maga Worldwide training on fundamental self-defense techniques like straight punches, kicks to the groin and escaping bear hugs, grabs or chokes will give you the skills you need to fight back in a self-defense situation and get away safe. Make the time to make regular training (two or three times a week) a part of your routine. It’s the best way to keep your self-defense skills sharp.

USE THE BUDDY SYSTEM.

Take a friend or two along on your vacation and make sure to fill in a couple friends and family members back home on your travel itinerary and your hotel’s contact information. Once you get to your destination, make sure to travel in pairs when you can, even when walking to the corner store.

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DON’T LEAVE YOUR COMMON SENSE AT HOME.

It’s easy to get caught up in the bright lights or the sound of palm trees swaying in wind, but keep your head on straight and stay alert. Don’t take drinks from strangers, check the conditions of the water before diving in (check for undertows or strong currents) and stay in safe areas of town. If you get the gut feeling something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it.

DON’T SPEND YOUR TIME WASTED. It’s fun to let go and have a few drinks

while on vacation, but don’t come back home with just drinking stories. Limit your consumption when you go out and make sure your travel companions help you stick to it. Side effects of overdrinking can include impaired judgment, blacking out and getting physically sick — none of which sound like the great spring break vacation you had in mind!

DRESS SMART WHILE SIGHTSEEING. Jeans and sneakers will help you blend

in and, if needed, enable you to make a quick getaway. Also, avoid wearing large and expensive-looking jewelry that can draw additional attention to you. Although crossbody purses are convenient while walking around, wearing a purse strap across your body makes you more connected to your bag. If someone tries to steal your purse, you will be pulled with the strap. You can become unbalanced and put into a vulnerable position, or you could end up in a physical altercation with the assailant. If your purse is draped on one shoulder, you can easily let go of it. For more information, visit kravmaga.com.

Krav Maga Worldwide trains and certifies instructors and licenses more than 150 authorized Krav Maga

Worldwide training centers in the United States, Canada, Japan, Mexico, South America and Europe, as well as more than 800 law enforcement agencies and military units. Krav Maga offers instruction to thousands of people, supporting the company’s core commitment to improving and saving lives.

OUT+ABOUT: Youth Pride reaches out to younger community Nathan Manna Worcester Youth Pride is a subcommittee of Worcester Pride, founded with the

intent of hosting events for the queer youth of Worcester. The committee was

established five years ago, and I have led the group for a year and a half. Some of

the events we have hosted in the past include a party the night of Worcester Pride in September and a prom.

We host these events with the goal of creating a safe space for the youth, so that they can fully express themselves. On average, our events draw in about 110-120

youth, though we’re hoping to double our numbers this year. Creating spaces for our youth is essential, as they are our future. This was echoed by Pride President

Peter Bacchiocchi, when he said, “As our community grows and evolves, it is critical to involve youth, as they represent the future of the LGBTQ+ community

but may also be some of our more marginalized members. We embrace the energy

and change our youth bring to the community and embrace a future under their leadership.”

The current committee leadership is the youngest it has ever been, and this only reflects it’s status and role as a beacon for the youth of our community. Our

elections, held early in January, re-elected me (Nathan Manna) as the chairman, Win Ye as the vice chairman, Brian Grenier as the secretary and treasurer and Jose Medina as our communications officer. We as the Officer Team want to create Worcester Youth Pride as a hub for the queer youth of Worcester and really serve

our community through events, activism, mentoring and, above all, serving the youth that are so often marginalized.

Going forward, we hope to diversify how we serve our community, queer youth, through a variety of different ways. Some ideas mentioned at committee meetings include creating an LGBTQ+ consortium for the Worcester colleges, compiling

a master of list of the organizations that serve queer youth in the Worcester area, talking with and training middle and high school gay-straight alliance advisors and so much more! This can only happen with your support, though.

As a committee, we meet the second and fourth Tuesdays of every month at 6:30

p.m. in the YWCA, 1 Salem Square, Worcester. All meetings are open to the public, and we encourage new faces whenever possible. You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram at @worcesteryouthpride. If you would like more information, you can

email us at worcesteryouthpride@gmail.com. Finally, as an organization that hosts many events throughout the year, we welcome any donations you would like to send.

This guest column is by Nathan Manna, the chairman for Worcester Youth Pride and a first-year student at the College of the Holy Cross, where he is pursuing a theatre and gender, sexuality and women’s studies double major. Find him on Instagram@nathandmanna. If you have column ideas, want to write a guest column or just want to ask a question, email john@johnart.com.

thepulsemag.com

THE LUXE LIST

TRENDY TECH FINDS Merilee Kern

#1 JELLY CYLINDER NANO

This company has created one of the coolest pieces of living art! Envision

something with the nostalgia and intrigue of a lava lamp combined with the thrill of “living” art. Jellyfish Art has made the concepts of jellyfish tanks a

simple reality for any home or office décor. As an all-inclusive kit, the Jellyfish Cylinder kits include three sustainably aqua-cultured, live moon jellyfish and

everything you need to set up the aquarium. $369; jellyfishart.com.

#2 DITTO VIBRATING CELL PHONE SIGNALER Know someone who is sick and tired of receiving seemingly useless

notifications on their phone all of the time? By putting a phone in silent mode

to avoid the influx of unwanted or tedious, non-essential messages, important

notifications can be missed in the process. The Ditto Bluetooth Vibrating

Cell Phone Signaler will allow you to pick and choose from whom you want

to receive calls, texts and email messages. It’s customizable with a free app, allowing you to pre-set important contacts, like the babysitter or the boss, and

not be bothered by every single phone call, text or email that comes in while

doing other things. The app is both iOS and Android compatible. $39.95; HarrisComm.com.

#3 CARRYOKEBELL Know someone who just loves to sing and entertain? VocoPro makes that

easy with its CarryOkeBell device, the world’s first handheld, completely selfcontained karaoke system. It has on-board digital mic effects to help users sound like stars, or to transform the sound of their voices using the voice changer with seven fun vocal effects. Karaoke enthusiasts can sing at home or

on the road using Bluetooth technology and their own “smart” device to access favorite karaoke tracks online. $89; VocoPro.com.

#4 TORCH COAT HEATER The Torch Coat Heater is a portable, battery-operated heating unit designed to fit in a clothing pocket. With it, you can transform your jacket — any jacket

— into a battery-operated heated garment and fight the elements in clothing of your choosing. The Torch 2.0, the company’s next-gen coat heater, features

more efficient heat pads, push-button technology, a hidden battery pocket and the capability of charging your cell phone. $99.95; TorchCoatHeater.com.

As the executive editor and producer of The Luxe List, Merilee Kern is an internationally regarded consumer product trends expert and hospitality industry voice of authority. She

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identifies and reports on exemplary travel destinations and experiences, extraordinary events and newsworthy products and services across all categories. Reach her at TheLuxeList.com, on

Twitter @LuxeListEditor, on Facebook at TheLuxeList and on Instagram at LuxeListReviews.

NORTH COUNTY • DINING • ENTERTAINMENT • NIGHTLIFE • SHOPPING • NORTH COUNTY • DINING • SHOPPING

NORTH COUNTY • DINING • ENTERTAINMENT • NIGHTLIFE • SHOPPING • NORTH COUNTY • DINING • ENTERTAINMENT • NIGHTLIFE • SHOPPING

NORTH COUNTY • DINING • ENTERTAINMENT • NIGHTLIFE • SHOPPING • NORTH COUNTY • DINING • SHOPPING

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NORTH COUNTY • DINING • ENTERTAINMENT • NIGHTLIFE • SHOPPING • NORTH COUNTY • DINING • SHOPPING

NORTH COUNTY • DINING • ENTERTAINMENT • NIGHTLIFE • SHOPPING • NORTH COUNTY • DINING • ENTERTAINMENT • NIGHTLIFE • SHOPPING

NORTH COUNTY • DINING • ENTERTAINMENT • NIGHTLIFE • SHOPPING • NORTH COUNTY • DINING • SHOPPING

F OO D +D R IN K

DINING REVIEW

STURBRIDGE PORTERHOUSE OFFERS UP A JUICY EXPERIENCE

Bernie Whitmore After stopping at the Treehouse Brewery in Charlton (which merits a story unto itself ), we continued on to Sturbridge to meet friends for dinner at the Porterhouse Steakhouse and Lounge. It had been a while since I’d made the trek to Sturbridge, and I found the high volume of traffic carried by the narrow roads of that small town a rude re-awakening. In the fading light of Saturday evening, patient driving was required. After exiting the highway and parking the car, the mayhem was soon forgotten. The design of the Sturbridge Porterhouse points away from the highway and toward the more pleasing view of snowy woodlands. The Porterhouse’s dining room and lounge are two separate rooms, united by the airy “open concept” we’re always hearing about in those HGTV real estate dramas. There’s plenty of rough-cut lumber and beams stained deep, hardwood tones. The overall décor is countryish but blended, with flashy corrugated metal sheathing to produce a level of sophistication that should make all clientele feel comfortable. As if to stake their claim to steakhouse cred, Porterhouse prominently features a near life-sized Texas longhorn in the entrance. A gleaming Brimfield Flea Market prize? Perhaps. The menu also strikes a balance, which should make beef-lovers happy, while graciously accommodating those less enthusiastic for red meat. Lynn, our server, offered gracious service and well-considered advice through each course. Appetizers range from Poutine to Bone Marrow with Tomato Confit to Charcuterie Board. The marrow sounded interesting, but the four of us decided to launch right into salads instead. Three of us ordered Beet and Goat Cheese salads. Always enthusiastic for beets, I was impressed first by the salad’s format. Served in a long rectangular dish, the row of mixed greens was anchored at each end by a wedge of

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honey crisp apple fanned into razor-thin slices. Plenty of goat cheese, soft and mild in flavor, was crumbled over the length of the greens, and a generous scattering of pistachio nuts were tossed in. Just as I was ready to sample it, though, my friend asked, “Does yours have beets?”

STURBRIDGE PORTERHOUSE 407 MAIN ST., STURBRIDGE (508) 347-2700 STURBRIDGE-PORTERHOUSE.COM Somewhat abashed that I hadn’t already noticed, I explored with my fork and discovered there were, in fact, no beets. When we pointed this out, Lynn was clearly embarrassed and returned with little cups of beets for each of us. DIY salad, with beets that were decidedly unspecial. Another friend had chosen the Wedge Salad, a riff on the classic steakhouse wedge. Baby iceberg lettuce was topped with bacon, caramelized red onions, sliced grape tomatoes and Great Hill blue cheese and topped with a creamy ranch dressing. Enough salad, this is a steakhouse! So let’s talk steak. Porterhouse posts a rock-solid list four basic steaks in its menu: New York Strip, Filet, Ribeye and the Bone Marrow Porterhouse (for two). Then, for a slight upcharge, you can get them treated with appealing sauces such as Brandy Peppercorn and Blue Cheese Horseradish Butter. My friend reported on his New York Strip: “Perfectly cooked medium-rare, as I ordered, with a flavorful grilled crust on the outside and pink and juicy on the interior.”

The strip steak was accompanied by whipped potatoes topped with three huge asparagus spears. A house-made steak sauce akin to A1 accompanied the meat. I realize that by ordering the Pan Roasted Faroe Island Salmon, I was violating traditional steakhouse logic: Don’t order fish! However, on paper, everything about this meal was too good to pass up. And the dish presented to me easily exceeded my elevated expectations. Done with skill, pan-roasting seals in the salmon’s juicy-tender flavor with a buttery, thin edge of crispiness on the exterior. This capable chef achieved perfection. And, as if that wasn’t enough, the salmon came served over a medley of roasted vegetables, flavors bound together in rich flavor. Could the chef have deglazed the roasting pan? I daresay. Tender halves of tiny brussels sprouts and onions, strips of green peppers with scrumptious charred edges, softened roasted grape tomatoes… I loved every bite. Spicy flavor notes from my glass of Keuka The Fox gingerbread brown ale tasted great with my meal. Porterhouse’s wine list was extensive, with a few selections poured fresh “on tap.” Sorry, vintners! I’ve turned my attention to American brewmasters. For dessert, we shared Crème Brûlée. Its format varied from traditional; Porterhouse’s was presented in a deep metal crock and garnished with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream. Under the crackly sugar crust, creamy custard was thick with flavor so intense it was at the toffee end of the brûlée spectrum. Lynn had assured us the desserts were homemade. I didn’t question her for a moment and struggled to get my share of spoonfuls. Dinner at Sturbridge Porterhouse was very satisfying. But if I had any regret, it’s that we didn’t order the Bone Marrow appetizer. They actually crack open a huge bone for what must be a decadent treat; if it’s anywhere near as tasty as it looked, it alone would be worth a return visit.

HOT&NOW: What’s hot and what’s happening now in the restaurant scene Paul Giorgio Too young to go. We mourn the passing of Ed Hyder, a fixture in the Worcester food scene. Hyder, owner of Ed Hyder’s Mediterranean Marketplace on Worcester’s West Side passed away a few weeks ago. I have known Ed since we both grew up on Grafton Hill; we were high school classmates and friends. Ed was a font of food knowledge, but more importantly, he always kept me informed about our classmates. Korean-style restaurant simjang. The second location from the deadhorse hill team is expected to open in early March on Shrewsbury Street in Worcester. The deadhorse ownership group announced in August plans for the second restaurant, simjang, which will take the location once occupied by Sweet Kitchen & Bar, which closed in July after being open for nine years. Hoy Toy closes. The iconic Chinese restaurant Hoy Toy on Worcester’s Park Avenue has closed its doors. The Hoy Toy has been a Park Avenue fixture for about 40 years, serving countless customers their first mai tai. Closed in the north. Bootleggers of Lunenburg closed its doors at the end of January. Closed in the south. Native Wings & Grill in Oxford closed abruptly the first week of February. This chain restaurant was only open a year. I guess they couldn’t compete with Wings over Worcester. Another South County closing. Vienna in Southbridge closed the first week of February. It never reopened after a fire around Thanksgiving of 2017. The building was auctioned off. Brew who? Central Massachusetts welcomes a new brewery, Altruist Brewing, in Sturbridge. A ribbon-cutting took place Jan. 13 at the Sturbridge Marketplace, 559 Main St. The brewery is open from 5-10 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays and noon-10 p.m. Saturdays. Altruist was founded by husband and wife, Nancy and Bob Bixby, and friend Chris Mancini. The brewery specializes in small hand-crafted batches. Open for noodles. STIX Noodle Bar hosted its grand opening Monday, Feb. 12. The fast-casual eatery will be open from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. daily, serving classic and creative ramen bowls, along with fresh handmade curry, teppanyaki and wokinspired dishes. STIX is located at 72 Franklin St. One opens, one closes. Techni Mediterranean Grill closed its doors for rebranding just as the Taste of Mediterranean opened its doors at 20 Franklin St. in Worcester. I guess you can’t have two Middle Eastern restaurants within grape leaf-tossing distance. Food Truck Row. The city of Worcester is set to establish a Food Truck Row lineup of some of the city’s food trucks beginning March 5.The trucks will be out Monday through Saturday at 40 Highland St., behind the Worcester Auditorium, braving the weather through March. The official grand opening of Food Truck Row will be in April. After all these years. Chuck’s Steakhouse in Auburn will open for lunch. The restaurant will serve lunch at noon, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Chuck’s will celebrate 40 years this year and is owned by Steve Londrgan and Tom Flynn.

thepulsemag.com

ART +CU LTU R E

CLARK TRAVELS THE WORLD WITH INTERNATIONAL GALA Julianne Elias If you are interested in traveling the world in just one night, without even leaving Worcester, then Clark has the perfect opportunity for you — its annual International Gala. Held every March, this free event showcases the campus’s cultural diversity. During this popular and lively event, more than 300 students from Clark will represent 32 countries from around the world. The students of Clark take pride in this event and look at it as a positive way to spread acceptance. Travel from Greece to India to Nepal, and many other countries, all while sitting in the same seat. The countries’ cultural values will be shown through performances done by the students. There will also be music, traditional dress and other customs of the students’ home countries. The gala hopes to inspire tolerance and openmindedness through the variety of cultures represented in the show. The gala is hosted by Clark’s International Students Association. This group promotes better relations among students of different cultures through a variety of events encouraging cross-cultural communication, goals the ISA has not just for Clark but for the wider Worcester community. And that’s what the gala is all about. “There is a strange and incredible power to the event itself; a stunning power in bringing people together. You see the joy on the dancers’ faces, and the music from all their countries comes together to create a truly exciting performance. It is beautiful – and the work that goes into it can certainly be seen in the show!” said Ram Sharma, Clark University student and vice president of the ISA. If you are attending the gala, make sure to get there at least an hour early. With more than 1,000 people in attendance each year, the line is guaranteed to be long. The performances are a mix of everything; it’s a guarantee you will find something you love. “Clark is a very diverse school and, luckily for us, has a large international population (myself included; I am from India). Gala itself is not a very old show (this is the 16th iteration), but for quite a lot of us internationals, it is an outlet to bring the best of what you come from and package it to show everyone. All of the dancers, as well as choreographers, are student volunteers – undergraduates here at Clark,” Sharma said. The free International Gala will be held at 7 p.m., March 23, at the Kneller Athletic Center at Clark University. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Unable to attend the Gala, but don’t want to miss out on the amazing performances? Not a problem. Through the International Students Association’s Facebook page, you can live stream the whole show. The students of ISA expect to have an additional 1,500 people live streaming the show. For more information or to live stream the show, visit facebook.com/ClarkUISA.

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thepulsemag.com

SPORTS +FITN E S S

NEW AROUND THE WOO

FIDELITY BANK WORCESTER ICE CENTER Rachel Shuster Located in the heart of Worcester’s Canal District at 112 Harding St., Fidelity Bank Worcester Ice Center is a state-of-the-art private recreational facility that promises to offer a one-of-a-kind experience. Chris Hartly, general manager of the Fidelity Bank Worcester Ice Center, has been with the ice center from the start. “The Worcester community can expect an ice center experience like none other,” Hartly said. “On top of having two NHL-sized ice sheets that are home to four local college teams, five local high school teams, three major youth hockey associations and a practice facility for the Worcester Railers pro team, we house Peak Fitness Performance Training, a Reliant Medical Group rehabilitation/sports medicine office, the Railers merchandise shop, Profiler’s Edge hockey shop and the North American headquarters for ProSharp, who sells automated skate-sharpening machines.” Hartly said the ice center truly brings something special and fun to the Worcester community. “We are unique because of our atmosphere and having so many things going on under one roof.” One of those many awesome things is the fact that the Worcester Ice Center is home to some delicious dining options! “We have two amazing food/beverage spots from the Niche Hospitality Group,” Hartly said. “Nonna’s Pizza & Pasta is a casual, family-friendly, affordable Italian restaurant with a bar, two function rooms and spectacular views overlooking our main game rink and the city.” Nonna’s is open for lunch and dinner 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday and 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

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Monday-Saturday. The menu includes pizza like Nonna’s Classic, Farm Veggie and Italian Deli; pastas like chicken marsala, shrimp scampi and pasta Bolognese; and grinders like Italian, meatball and shrimp caprese. “Steam Energy Cafe is all things coffee, plus smoothies, a juice bar and healthy eats with salads, soups, acai bowls and sandwiches,” Hartly said. The café is open 6 a.m.- 8 p.m. Monday-Friday, and 7 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. As for hours, Hartly said, “Each business inside of the ice center has their own operating hours, but the rink’s hours are based on when the ice is being used. Typically, we are open by 6 a.m. and stay open till around midnight.” Looking to head to the ice center in the “off season?” No such thing! “We are open all year. The only three days we are closed are Fourth of July, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas,” Hartly said. The ice center also offers events for the community. “We have public skating, pick-up hockey, noon hockey during the week, Learn to Skate classes and Learn to Play Hockey classes,” Hartly said. There’s also birthday skating parties and Friday and Saturday night Ice Jams, where you can skate with a live DJ! “We also do a lot of special events for holidays, like a Valentine’s Day Date and Skate, which included dinner at Nonna’s, plus an hour of skating,” Hartly said. He also mentioned that they are putting together a St. Patrick’s Day adult hockey tournament this year. For more information, visitworcesterice.com.

FINDINGBALANCE: Spirit Animals

Jennifer Russo Many Native Americans strongly believed in spirit animals, as evidenced by totems that they wore and used in their architecture. They believed that these totems were sacred and represented individuals or tribes. The animals often mirrored the characteristics of the person and were considered very powerful in family, battle, medicine, teaching and growth. I started researching more about spirit animals after I envisioned and dreamed several times of an older Native American woman who could turn from human to wolf. I believe this woman and animal are my guides, helping me, especially in my meditation and reiki practices. Whether or not you believe in that higher level of being, you may resonate with a certain animal and its characteristics. Below are some of the meanings and symbolism behind some of these spirit animals. The Wolf: Symbolic of intelligence and wit, extremely instinctual and follows the “gut,” with a strong desire for freedom, usually peaceful, and yet exhibits raw and fierce emotion when threatened. Very protective of the family. Believes strongly in the truth and passion of living life as its authentic self. The Hawk: The visionary who sees possibility of a better future and strives to make the world a better place. Wise and always looking for a higher perspective, very keen to observe everything around them. Very focused in tasks. The Bear: Powered by strength and courage, not afraid of adversity and willing to stand tall against it. Very in touch with all aspects of nature, has the ability to heal and ground others. Understands the importance of rest and solitude. Very confident. The Butterfly: Driven by the power of personal transformation and the cycles of life. Belief in rebirth and renewal of oneself. A playful spirit that has a lightness about it that translates into an easygoing personality. The Fox: Cunning and aware, able to easily see through the false. Quick to think and act, curious about the world around it, but careful. Very adaptable and resourceful personality. The Panther: Powerful and extremely protective. Brave and regal, often very reserved and solitary. Also a mothering symbol, understanding power in the night and shadow, with an ability to see through dark circumstances to a new day. The Dolphin: Highly intelligent and playful, understanding the balance between the solid and fluid states of life. Embraces humor and peace. The Owl: Extremely intuitive and gets strength from deep wisdom. Able to see what others are not able to see in situations. This animal is also a symbol of coming change. Curious as to what your spirit animal might be? You may already know this based on your own instincts and dreams. If you don’t have an inclination already, you can take a fun quiz at spiritanimal.info/spirit-animal-quiz. I took this and — surprise — the wolf. Ohm Shanti.

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STYLE+B E A U TY

OUT WITH THE COLD, IN WITH THE NEW Victoriahope McAuliffe

MOISTURIZE AND PROTECT

MAKE YOURSELF SILKY SMOOTH

Spring is exciting! But after a brutally cold winter,

As we leave hibernation behind, we need to embrace a moisturizer that can cater to our skin’s increased sun exposure. Luckily, e.l.f. recently launched its Beauty Shield line, which includes its Skin Shielding Moisturizer with SPF 50. Containing the powerful antioxidants carrot seed oil, sunflower seed oil and vitamin C, this moisturizer features a sheer tint that accentuates every skin tone. This moisturizer protects skin against environmental irritants and is formulated without parabens, sulfates, phthalates or alcohol. Created for all skin types, this moisturizer provides deep hydration as well as sun protection. $12; target.com.

Common drugstore moisturizers, and even our cult-

many have been left with problematic skin as a result of elemental exposure. Itchy and dry skin can leave you feeling

uncomfortable and embarrassed. If post-winter skin woes

have you crawling in your skin, give our list of spring musthaves a try to make your seasonal transition seamless.

DETOXIFY AND EXFOLIATE If you’re looking for an all-in-one miracle facial exfoliator, this will be your Holy Grail. The Charcoal

and Black Sugar Gel Mask + Scrub uses the detoxifying

BUFF AWAY BUMPY SKIN

dirt, debris and other impurities out of pores to ensure a

As our minds prepare for warmer weather, our bodies must as well. Winter often leaves in its wake itchy arms and rough elbows, not ideal for T-shirt weather. A gentle and effective exfoliator is required. Restore your skin’s nutrients and indulge with Dove’s Crushed Macadamia Nut & Rice Milk Body Polish. This whipped exfoliator engulfs your senses with its creamy texture and addictive scent. With notes of macadamia and vanilla, you will step out of the shower smelling like a sugar cookie. $5.99; dove.com.

properties of charcoal, which acts as a magnet, pulling

fresh and clear complexion. Black sugar gently exfoliates, removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover and

regrowth. This mask is gentle enough to use daily as a scrub but packs a powerful punch when utilized weekly

as a treatment mask. If you want skin that feels as soft as flower petals without breaking the bank, this mask is worth trying. $4.29; freemanbeauty.com.

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classic Bath & Body Works body lotions, are formulated with glycols and other chemicals that may further damage dry skin. We all dream of finding the perfect moisturizer

that is chemical-free, cruelty-free and affordable. Luckily, J’orqus has made that dream a reality with its shea-based, whipped body butters. J’orqus carries its Body Frosting in

three scents — Vanilla, Lavender and Unscented Shea, which are available in 4-ounce and 8-ounce jars. J’orqus

makes all its products in small batches by hand, ensuring the highest quality and freshness. $10 for 4 ounces, $15 for 8 ounces; facebook.com/jorqus.

LICK THOSE LIPS After winter, what the chapped, cracked and dry skin of

the lips needs is gentle exfoliation with sugar. Luckily, e.l.f. produces a line of lip exfoliators, which come in a variety

of flavors — Mint Maniac, Coconut, Sweet Cherry and Grapefruit, to name a few! It comes in lipstick form, so buff onto lips and then lick off the sugar. Your lips are left smooth, soft and deliciously kissable. $3; elfcosmetics.com.

STEALTHESTYLE: Say it on a sweater

Jamie Burke The political climate has changed. I am not one for taking sides, but what I do like

to share — and what others seem like to share — are simple statements that pack

a punch and give you all the feels. They might not even be original statements; you

might have seen them repeatedly. So, whatever you feel like is your truth that you want to share with the world, put it on a sweater. A famous clothing designer in

New York has taken messages, put them into series and embroidered them onto

sweaters. These sweaters are selling for almost $400. You will need about an hour and a few supplies, and you will have an equally bold statement sweater to share.

Supplies: Sweater Needle Embroidery thread Chalk Ruler Scissors Steps: 1. So, my daughter had a brand new $5 sweater from Forever 21, which she

picked up last year at the end of the winter season clearance. At 15, she can spot a great deal to save for a later date. We took the sweater, laid it out flat and marked it with a ruler and a light chalk line for our statement to go. This is probably the

most important step. You might have a great statement, but if it looks wonky, you just appear to be a lunatic.

2. Next, pick your word or statement and sketch it with chalk on the sweater. Stay

within the lines and use even and clear letters. Cursive is tricky, but if you take your time, it will come out like a handwritten note. Once you have sketched the word, go back and make visible dots on each letter for spacing, so the thread is even as you start to sew. This makes for no mistakes.

3. Next, take your needle and thread and start from the inside of the sweater and

sew chalk dot to chalk dot. Loop each completed dot twice, and after two or three

completed looped dots, make a knot, cut, and start again where you left off. When you knot and start over, it gives you cleaner letters, and if you mess up, you don’t

have to start again, just where you left off. Start fresh on new words, so the thread doesn’t snag from the inside.

4. Once you have the letters complete, lightly wipe chalk off and throw on your

new sweater. So, no matter what side you stand on or behind, for less than $10, you can design a powerful sweater to show off without the high-ticket designer price.

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STYLESAVY: Break out the SPF April Goddard It’s amazing to think that we are officially almost one-fourth through the year. March is the month that we (very, very slowly) start to say goodbye to winter and hello to spring. (Except for the inevitable, randomly placed, pop-up snow shower between 55-degree days. Welcome to New England.) For those lucky spring breakers who are packing it up to go elsewhere for a guaranteed 80-degree break, the time has come to start thinking about what to pack up for that muchneeded, sunshine-filled vacation. After all, the last time we have all seen a drop of substantial sunshine was almost six months ago. Through the literal whirlwind of winter, we may have forgotten what it is like to not have to prepare for icy, bitter weather just to step outside for a moment. Beach day, anyone? The first and most important thing not to forget for your sunny spring break is sunscreen. Listen people, I understand the desperate desire for a tan. However, at this point in the game, we are all well aware that excess sun exposure is just not good for our skin. (Fine lines, wrinkles, sunspots and cancer? No thanks.) On top of this, our skin practically hasn’t seen the light of day for an entire season. This means that it will be particularly sensitive to aggressive UV rays and may result in the quickest sunburn that you’ve ever had. So do yourself a favor: Pick out a decent sunscreen of SPF 50 or higher and apply it every few hours. Your skin will thank you, and you will decrease the chances of coming back home looking like a total lobster. Neutrogena makes a killer sunscreen that is face-specific and safe for sensitive skin. While we’re on the topic of sun exposure, let us not forget to protect our delicate eyes from the sun as well. Did you know that not wearing sunglasses can also increase the probability of having fine lines around your eyes? On top of this, it can seriously damage vision as we age. All the more reason to embrace throwing on a cool pair of shades as you lay on the beach or lounge by the pool. The RayBan 3347 has been my go-to lately, and the popularity of this retro shape won’t be going anywhere anytime soon. A lot of people go through the effort of protecting their skin and eyes from the sun, but forget to throw on a lip balm that has SPF in it to protect the lips. After all, they can get sunburned, too. Thankfully, almost every brand (both drugstore and high-end) has the solution to avoiding sunburnt lips. These balms come in a wide variety of colors and textures, and the best part about them is that they do the same thing as a sunscreen without the risk of having to eat lotion. Now that you’re prepped for the sun, have a great spring break!

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