PULSE MAGAZINE: MAY 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

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PULSE Magazine is produced 12 times a year by Pagio Inc., 134 Gold St., Worcester, MA 01608. (508) 756-5006. Copyright 2021 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

Bernie Whitemore, Jason Savio, Irena Kaçi, Shaun Connolly,Taylor Nunez-Murray, April Goddard, LuAnn Thibodeau, Vincent Pacifico, Jennifer Russo, Eric Casey, Joie Gerhardi Nick Sposato, and Jenny Pacillo.Writers

written by Irena Kaci

If you happened to be a pre-teen or a teenager in the 90s or even early aughts, you might’ve dreamt of living the life of a Delia’s Catalog Model. Delia catalogs arrived with impressive regularity into my mailbox, often heralding the season before the rest of the world could get a “lewk” in edgewise. Of course, immediately after the high of inhaling the new trends came the low of knowing no number of wedge sandals paired with chunky striped sweaters could possibly transform the unruly body of a teenage girl into that of those svelte magnificent creatures cartwheeling their way through the pages of that publication and, therefore, life.

Such was the accepted way of the world: modeling required the kind of thinness and appetite for thinness that was comically out of reach for the average human. Yet only a couple of decades over into now, and the world of modeling has all but been transformed. As a decades old, outrageously adult woman, I nearly wept with relief once Target introduced their line of ‘plus size’ clothes and started placing ‘curvy’ mannequins around their stores alongside the standard issue gazelles of modeling’s heyday. Moreover, thanks to the advent of social media, there are countless ways to influence the way ‘lewks’ are presented, and anyone with a smartphone has at least a starting point toward the world of modeling.

One such person is Worcester’s own Misia O’Brien, a young upstart who is now living in New York City as a working model. O’Brien’s story is not dissimilar to mine and countless others. She grew up in Worcester, attending Flagg Street, then Forest Grove, then Worcester Academy. During her formative years she often felt outsized, her proportions never quite fitting into the ‘junior’ section of most department stores. “My older sister was always this tiny, petite person, and could shop at all the cute tween areas, but by the time I was thirteen I was having to shop in the ‘women’s section’. It obviously made me feel like I just didn’t fit.”

It was due, in part, to these kinds of experiences that made modeling not seem like a real option for O’Brien. “It all started with taking my senior photos in high school. I worked with this amazing photographer from the Worcester area, Penny-Lynn Earle. She was super encouraging and managed to capture some fantastic photos. She suggested that I try modeling, since plus size modeling had just been having ‘a moment’, and she said I was very photogenic.”

O’Brien started to dabble in modeling around then but still didn’t feel ready to pursue it more seriously. “I was finishing college and that’s

really what I focused on. I studied business at UMASS Amherst and wanted to make sure I got my degree.” After college, however, O’Brien felt herself more and more drawn to modeling. Misia O’Brien’s father, Michael served as City Manager for 10 years during her childhood. “I was in and out of city hall throughout my life and felt like a little celebrity walking through those halls, so maybe some part of me was ready for a bit more exposure as an adult.”

A year ago, O’Brien signed with Muse Modeling in New York City, and moved there to pursue modeling full time. Wanting to become a role model to a whole new generation of women pushed O’Brien to seize the opportunities coming her way, and continued to present herself as the fierce, and unapologetic representation of beauty. “When I first started, I wanted to be someone to whom a smaller version of me could look up. I wanted and still want to empower people to be confident in their own skin. To be able to exemplify that ‘yes, you can have curves, and be really tall, and be stunning.’ I really want to model that.”

O’Brien has worked with many stores that are household names, including Target and Macy’s. “I really would’ve never pictured myself

doing so much and going so far, and it’s important sometimes for me to take a step back and give myself due credit. There was a LOT of lead up to this. You don’t just get offered jobs like that right off the bat. And I need that because as a model, it is so hard not to look in the mirror and nitpick every flaw. I’ve met a lot of women who I look at and wow they are so beautiful, they are curvy and I feel the definition of what a woman is. They are role models for me. “

Even with all the changes for the (much) better, the world of modeling has a long way to go. “For a while, the term ‘plus size’ bothered me. As a ‘nontraditional’ model I have come to realize that all of us in this category are still grappling with the way we view ourselves and the terms used to identify us. I recently learned that seventy percent of women are a size 14 or over. We’re not plus. We’re not fat. I’m a model. I remember being younger and shopping for clothes with my sister, who was still wearing junior sizes and having to contemplate a lot of the worst things about my body. My options were limited and unflattering in the more adult section because they didn’t make teen clothes in my size. We want to wear clothes that flatter our bodies; we want to wear what looks cute. They [designers] are missing a huge population of America.

In the future, O’Brien hopes to work more in the ‘beauty’ side of modeling, including things like make-up, skin care and hair brands. “A lot of those campaigns still go to the more traditional model, and you still don’t see a lot of curvy or plus size representation in those ads.” The industry has made great strides but some of the traditional challenges that all models face come up regardless. “A lot of people don’t realize what a toll it takes on you. Even if you hate the picture, it will be posted and people are going to see it. Mentally it’s been very challenging to get out of my own head so that I can and let it happen.”

Still the desire to better the scene for future generations keeps O’Brien focused on her goals, “Definitely the push for me to do this is the fact when I grew up when I was 10 or 11 years old. I didn’t have anyone to look up to as my own shape or figure. Every time you saw anyone in modeling, I felt like I needed to match these figures all over. I want the next wave of children to have a different, a better experience. That’s what keeps me going.”

Echoing O’Brien’s perspective, Karon Shea, local modeling agency owner, agrees that the modeling landscape has changed. Shea has been a talent/model scout for 50 years, and has had the experience of working through many of these transitions. “Things are so different now. We work a lot with different types of people. It has come so far. It has changed so much. I put up a child with braces today for a Ralph Lauren Campaign. Advertisers

are now looking for a more approachable, kid next door image.”

Shea owns her own agency right here in Worcester, where she has been helping make dreams come true for 42 years. Shea Management moved to a new location on Water St. about 18 years ago, in part to expand in some new areas and offer a variety of performance enhancing workshops. “Four dreams, one stage. That’s what I like to say. An actor needs to be groomed, models need to know how to act, dancers need to know how to find their light. It’s all connected.” In their current iteration, the agency also offers voice lessons, acting classes, as well as dance classes through Central Mass Dance Academy, owned by Shea’s daughter.

It’s obvious that Shea works hard to keep her clients happy and push for their future goals with shrewdness and enthusiasm. “We operate on a lot of different divisions, commercial, lifestyle, fashion etc. We take our clients to the New York area, we give them exposure; I’ve taken certain divisions to Paris, sizes 16-22.” Shea also arranges photo shoots whenever clients ask, “It’s not mandatory to use my photographers, but it does offer you a more economical option. It’s a day but it does streamline the process since I can monitor the photo shoot and ask for what I need in real time. We shoot indoors and outdoors, and I give a lot of good advice during the session.”

Changes are especially obvious in the bridal industry “Bridal shows, they always want plus. That’s the one of hardest requests to fulfill, because Bridal Shows ask for plus but they also need tall, at least 5’8”.” But the scope is wide enough that there is work to be had for anyone with the drive and desire to get into modeling and entertainment. “We hire people who are in their 40s, in their 50s, men, women, kids. Really, if you’re interested, there’s something out there for you, and it’s our job to find it. In fact, we just finished a large project with Angela Coppola Productions, and have a standing arrangement with them, as well as Hasbro, that anyone hired through us goes directly to print. It ends up being a really good deal for the client for almost a day’s work.”

The changes are being felt even amongst the youngest models out there: “My children’s division has changed. It’s not always about being so beautiful. It’s so much more about personality and being comfortable interacting with others on camera.” This leads Shea to her favorite part of her job these days, passing on some hard won knowledge to the next generation. “I love teaching the classes. The acting classes are so fun for the kids because it brings out their imagination, and brings out their ability to communicate. And we don’t ever treat it like a competition.” Low stakes, maximum fun, maybe that is the future of modeling.

ATTACK OF THE KILLER REFRIGERATOR 2

Mike Savino and Mark Veau met at Worcester State College in the early 1980s, “I was running the radio station, Michael was running the tv station as general manager,” Veau says. “We used to do simulcasts, so that’s how we met,” Savino adds. The two became roommates and quickly began creating content for the Worcester State closed circuit channel that was broadcast to the dorms. “We had a little following of people who would plug in their TV and watch us,” Savino says. “We had fun doing it. It was all about the spirit of it and having fun,” Veau recalls. One fateful night, Veau and Savino were in their apartment when their refrigerator loudly turned on. “We always described it as a tank rolling down a hill and we both looked at each other and we went, ‘attack of the killer refrigerator’ right away,” Veau says.

Attack of the Killer Refrigerator was filmed in Savino and Veau’s apartment with their friends. “We had our friend come in, open the fridge, get a beer and all of a sudden he's backing away. The light shines on him and we had a bag of ketchup that we squeezed on him and ahhh!” Savino laughs. The 1985 short film about a refrigerator seeking revenge on the college students who have abused him became a cult classic that rivals any of Troma Entertainments' campy, horror comedies. Attack of the Killer Refrigerator was in video stores nationwide, Veau and Savino attended film festivals and they continued working together on other short films such as The Hook of Woodland Heights and Days Before Christmas.

Savino and Veau are now working on a Kickstarter to bring Attack of the Killer Refrigerator 2 to life. The sequel follows teenage horror aficionado Fred LaVigne after he wins the original Killer Refrigerator from an online movie prop auction. The fridge goes on a rampage after being plugged in during a high school house party, turning some unlucky guests into sliced meats, as Fred fights to put an end to this maniacal refrigerator’s terror. Savino and Veau already have their talented production team, and are seeking to raise $2.5 million to produce Attack of the Killer Refrigerator 2. Financial backers to the Kickstarter can earn film credits, special access to the premiere and even have their own teenagers “devoured by the Killer Refrigerator on screen”. “It has got an ending though, the twist on it and what happens is gonna leave you shocked,” Veau promises.

Attack of the Killer Refrigerator 2 will keep that “raw gritty feel” of the original. “We want to keep it all practical like the 80s. You know, lots of rods, lots of skill, cool stuff like that,” Savino says, describing the refrigerator’s teeth, deadly freezer and other realistically campy details that true horror fans will love. Makeup artist Samantha Mileski, a graduate of the Tom Savini’s Special Make-Up Effects Program, is on board and ready to get gruesome with plenty of severed heads, chewed up victims and lots of gore.

Savino and Veau are masters of the comedy horror genre, and Attack of the Killer Refrigerator 2 will most definitely be an instant cult classic. Check out their Kickstarter page and help bring this terrifying sequel to life!

SCAN HERE TO HELP THE ATTACK OF THE KILLER REFRIGERATOR 2 KICKSTARTER

JENNY PACILLO

ARTS & CULTURE LISTINGS

American Heritage Museum

(978) 562-9182

568 Main St., Hudson americanheritagemuseum.org

Arts Worcester (508) 755-5142

44 Portland St., Worcseter artsworcester.org

Boulder Art Gallery

(978) 354-7000

960 Main St., Fitchburg theboulderartgallery.com

Gallery open Thursday, Friday, Saturday

Brick Box Theater

(508) 413-5622

20B Franklin St., Worcester

DCU Center

508-755-6800

50 Foster St., Worcester

May 12 - Zach Bryan

Fitchburg Art Museum (978) 345-4207

185 Elm St., Fitchburg fitchburgartmuseum.org

Free First Thursdays

Hanover Theatre

(877) 571-7469

2 Southbridge St., Worcester thehanovertheatre.org

May 4 - Dance Theatre of Harlem: The Hazel Scott Ballet

May 6 - Ricky Duran: Space & Time Tour

May 30 - Wurlitzer Organ Concert

JMAC Popup

(508) 561-0173

20B Franklin St., Worcester jmacworcester.org

May 5 - Neighborhood Strings Music on Main

May 8 & 22 - Betty Machete and the Jumping

Fleas ALL Women Ukulele Club

May 28 & 29 - Wool Days

Preservation Worcster (508) 754-8760

10 Cedar St., Worcester preservationworcester.org

May 6 - Craft Brew Races

May 6 - Lincoln Square Walking Tour

May 12 - Medium Lauren Robbins

Samuel Slater Experience (508) 461-2955

31 Ray St., Webster samuelslaterexperience.org

Tuckerman Hall

(508) 754-1234

10 Tuckerman St., Worcester tuckermanhall.org

The Village Worcester thevillageworcester@gmail.com

4 King St., Worcester

Worcester Art Museum (508) 799-4406

55 Salisbury St., Worcester worcesterart.org

Free First Sundays

May 6 - Zip Tour: The Northbrook Madonna

Mechanics Hall

(508) 752-5608

321 Main St., Worcester mechanicshall.org

May 7 - Worcester Youth Orchestras presents 75th Season Finale & Gala

May 10 - Vijay Gupta, Violinist in Recital

May 17 - Joy of Music Program presents Annual Concert

May 18 - Club 321 featuring the Duke Robillard Quartet

May 21 - Worcester Youth Orchestras presents 75th Anniversary Concert & Celebration

May 22 - Guided Tour of Mechanics Hall

May 28 - Memorial Weekend Spectacular with Boston Symphony & Pops Brass

New England Botanical Garden (508) 869-6111

11 French St., Boylston nebg.org

May 5, 19 & 12 - En Plein Air Painting Class

May 6 - Restorative Yoga

May 6 & 7 - Seven States Daffodil Society Show

May 11 - Sogetsu Ikebana

May 12 - Floral Resin Earrings and Pendants

May 13 - Spring Ephemeral Arrangements

May 17 - Messy or Magic?

May 20 - Forest Bathing

May 20 & 21 - American Rhododendron Society Show and Sale

May 7 - Champions of Magic: the Worldwide Wonders Tour

May 11 & 23 - Historic & Architectural Tour

May 12, 13 & 14 - The Marvelous Party

May 12 - Lewis Black: Off the Rails

May 14 - Charlie Chaplin Silent Film Double Feature

May 19 - Madagascar the Musical

May 21 - THTC presents Spring Reflection 2023

May 27 - Saturday Morning Yoga Flow

May 28 - Natural Dyeing

Old Sturbridge Village (800) 733-1830

1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd., Sturbridge osv.org

May 6 - Spring Scout Day

May 13 & 14 - Dog Days

May 13 - Arms and Armor Program: Medieval Armor

May 14, 21 & 29 - Arms and Armor Program : Secrets of Swordplay

May 20 - Zip Tour: French Sculptors Houdon and Rodin

May 21 - Spotlight Series: Redefining Graffiti with Artist Sneha Shrestha

May 27 - Arms and Armor Program: 17th Century Colonial Militia

May 28 - Highlights Tour

Worcester Center for Crafts (508) 753-8103

25 Sagamore Rd., Worcester worcestercraftcenter.org

May 4 - Expressive Figurative May 20 - Give a Friend a Pinch!

Worcester Chamber Music Society (508) 926-8624

323 Main St, Worcester worcesterchambermusic.org

Worcester Historical Museum (508) 753-8278

30 Elm St., Worcester worcesterhistory.org

ENTERTAINMENT 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

May 14 - Big Jon Short

May 17 - Giuliano

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

Boland's Bar and Patio

508-459-2207

81 Water St, Worcester

Cafe Neo

774-253-6139

97 Millbury St., Worcester

Nightly Karaoke

Chuck’s Steakhouse

508-832-2553

10 Prospect Street, Auburn

May 4, 6 & 25 - Mark Manzella

May 5 - Tequila Bonfire

May 11 - Kyle Quintadamo

May 12 - Blues House Between

May 13 - Joe Macy

May 18 - Jason Beaulieu

May 19 - Marshall Morris

May 20 - Nancy Marshall

May 26 - Gerrits & Ryder

May 27 - Missy Maxfield

Classic’s Pub

978-227-5258

285 Central St., Leominster

Chashu Ramen + Izakaya

508-304-7183

38 Franklin St., Worcester

DCU Center

508-755-6800

50 Foster St., Worcester

May 12 - Zach Bryan

Draught House Bar & Grill

508-835-4722

42 West Boylston St., West Boylston

Electric Haze

26 Millbury St., Worcester

May 5 - CROC PAINTS

FAMILIAR FACES

Fidder’s Green Pub

508-792-3700

19 Temple St., Worcester

May 14 & 28 - Traditional Irish Seisiun

Firefly’s BBQ

508-357-8883

350 E. Main St., Marlborough

Dante’s at Firefly BBQ: Indoors

May 5 - Vinyl Echo

May 6 - Hot Acoustics

May 12 - SNG Band

May 13 - Steve Smith & The Nakeds

May 20 - Back in the Day

May 27 - Gold Dust Refugee

OUTDOORS in the Backyard

May 26 - Carl Schiller

May 27 - Jared Hanrahan

May 28 - Joe Mack

Flying Rhino

508-757-1450

278 Shrewsbury St., Worcester

Gardner Ale House

978- 669-0122

74 Parker St., Gardner

Greater Good Imperial Brewing

May 12 - Home Squad

May 13 - Absinthe Minded

May 19 - Sunset Electric

May 20 - Liz’s Birthday Bash with Jake Hunsinger

May 26 - Whale Watchers

May 27 - Throttle Hyde

Indian Ranch

508-943-3871

200 Gore Rd., Webster Indianranch.com

May 5 - Boombox

May 20 - Comedy Night at Slater’s with Paul D’Angelo & Guests

May 6 - House of Haze Ft: Cakewalk and Detour

May 7 - WARP Sunday Beats with Irwin, Sunshine at Night, Bromtown

May 14 - SQWERV with Kale and Caylin Costello

May 21 - Battle Roy-Mal: An Ope Stage, Rouletteapaloza Lip Sync battle Mal E. Fishn’t

May 26 - Yellow Brick Road

Dancefestopia

May 30 - Sensi Sessions Cannabis Industry Networking and Live Music

ft the Sensi Allstars

508-926-8736

55 Millbrook St., Worcester

Greendale’s Pub

508-853-1350

404 W Boylston St. North, Worcestr

Wednesdays - Wacky Blues Jam

Halligan’s

508-832-6739

889 Southbridge St., Auburn

May 5 - Crossfire

May 19 - World Premiere Band

May 20 - Crazy On You

Husky’s Pub

508-425-9614

413 Park Ave., Worcester

Mondays - Movie Night

Taco Tuesdays

Wednesdays - Acoustic Open Mic

Thursdays - Karaoke

Legends Bar and Grille

978- 342-6500

68 Airport Rd, Fitchburg

MB Lounge

508-799-4521

40 Grafton St., Worcester

Wednesdays - Karaoke

Thursdays - Trivia

Friday & Saturdays - Dance Party

Sundays - Game Night

May 21 - Drag Bingo

MCL Club

508-797-0141

181 Lake Ave., Worcester Worcestermcl.org

Mondays - Pitch!

Taco Tuesdays

Thursdays - Karaoke

Fridays - Queen of Hearts

May 6 - Voo Doo Vixen

May 7 - Two for the Road Acoustic Duo

May 13 - The Garage Doors: a Tribute to the Music of The Doors

May 14 - 8 Track Mind Band

May 19 - Booty and the Jett

May 21 - Atlantic Avenue with Russell Watts

Elm Draught House

508-865-2850

35 Elm St., Millbury

May 5 - Cove

May 6 - KY Derby Watch Party

May 6 - Adult Prom featuring

American Vernacular

May 8 - Girls Night Out

May 27 - Whiskey Church… Say Your Prayers

May 28 - The Delorean’s

Michael’s Cigar Bar

508-459-9035

1 Exchange St, Worcester

Movie Mondays

Sunday - Video Game Night

May 3, 17 & 31 - Mechanical Rat

May 5 - Jim Devlin

May 6 - Jodee Frawlee Duo

May 12 - On the Loose

May 13 - Melendez Mac Duo

May 24 - Frank Foot

May 26 - Moonlight Saints

May 27 - Hit the Bus

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

May 3 - Writer’s Rounds with Kamryn, Nate Ramos and AJ Ottino

May 5 - Bottomless Cup of Comedy with Mike Hanley

May 6 - WICN’s Brian Barlow Concert Series Presents Karrin Allyson

May 12 - Worcester’s All Night Revival with the Nate Ramos Band

May 19 - Billy & the Jets: Hits from Elton John and Billy Joey

May 20 - Eric Gales

May 26 - Paul Nelson Band with special guests The Infinite Groove

May 27 & 28 - Country Carnival at the Palladium Outdoors

Restaurant Stage

May 4 - Bob Moon

May 5 - Sean Fullerton

May 6 - Matt Andrews

May 7 & 25 - A.J. Ottino

May 11 & 18 - Jared Reinert

May 13, 21 & 27 - Kamryn

May 19 - Scott Magill

May 20 - Jean Batista

May 26 - Darren Bessette

May 28 - Vinny Bonina

Partner’s Pub

978-345-5051

970 South St., Fitchburg

Patsie Duggans

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

May 6 - Iron Tiger 80s Hair Metal

Tribute Band

May 13 - Dock 10

May 20 - The Great Escape: A Tribute to Journey

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

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

Sundays - Movie Night with Lexi

Tuesdays - Trivia with Lexi Loo

Wildcard Wednesdays with DJ Coral

Thursdays - Karaoke with DJ Matt R

The Bull Run

978-425-4311

215 Great Road, Shirley

May 4 - Clay Melton

May 5 - Larry Cambell & Teresa

Williams and Lucy Kaplansky

May 6 - Hot Dates and Jeff Root:

Double Album Release

May 7 - Brunch with Psychic Joanna

Carr

May 11 - The Roberto Morbioli Band

May 12 - Ellis Paul

May 13 - The Pousette-Dart Band

May 19 - The THE BAND Band:

ton Blues Allstars

May 21 - Hannah Robuccio

May 25 - Greg Piccolo & Heavy Juice

Tribute to The Band

May 20 - Anthony Geraci & theBos-

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

The Muse

508-796-5900

536 Main St., Worcester

The Palladium

508-797-9696

261 Main St., Worcester

May 2 - The Spill Canvas

May 4 - Turnover

May 5 - Set it Off: The Dopamine Tour

May 6 - The Menzingers, Bearly Dead

May 11 - Currents

May 12 - Wage War: The Manic Tour

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 Music Bingo

Wednesdays - Country Line

Dancing

May 7 - The Creators Exchange

Spring Market

May 11 - Paint Night with Kate

May 20 - Pre-Summah Bash at the Brew Yard

Worcester Brew Yard

152 Green St., Worcester

Mini Market Sundays

May 6 - Jacqueline Burns

May 24 - Hummingbird Porch Pot

Workshop with Bemis Farms

Whiskey on Water

774-578-8829

97 Water St., Worcester

White Eagle

508-753-9612

116-120 Green St., Worcester

Whiteeagleworcester.com

Thursday & Friday - Dj Nights

Woo Bar & Grill

774-243-6130

358 Shrewsbury St., Worcester

107 Tap

107 Water St., Worcester

107tap.com

Thursday - Karaoke and Trivia

DJ every Saturday

May 5 - Drive South

May 12 - Solace

May 26 - 3Sum Band

May 13 - Sepultura & Kreator

May 19 - Attack Attack: the Dark

Waves Tour

May 20 - No Pressure

May 21 - Helloween

May 23 - The Halo Effect

May 26 - Alestorm

May 27 - Nekrogoblikon: The Goblin Mode Tour

May 31 - Rival Sons

Thirsty Robot

265 Summer St., Fitchburg

Thursdays - Trivia Night Rob Boss

Tryst Lounge

PULSE SHOTS

Woo Bar & Grill

Photos by Nick Sposato

Mexicali Cantina Grill

Ralph’s Tavern

Worcester

feel the beat of the city

NOW STREAMING.

JASON SAVIO

THE ZOMBIES DIFFERENT GAME FALL OUT BOY SO MUCH (FOR) STARDUST

At first glance you might think to yourself “The Zombies? Like, the 1960s psychedelic band?” and the answer to both those questions is yes. The iconic group from the hippie era has returned with Different Game, a new studio album full of surprising emotion.

Founding keyboardist Rod Argent and lead singer Colin Blunstone lead the charge on Different Game, but this isn’t a trip down memory lane nor is it a stuffy recording of a couple veteran musicians trying to replicate themselves. Instead, Different Game has a fresh, heartbreaking quality to it that showcases what can happen when songwriters embrace where they are in life and put their hard-earned wisdom to music. It’s about aging, and the struggles that come with adjusting to the changes of getting older. The opening title track sets this tone with lyrics that capture that feeling of surprise and disappointment when you realize how much your life has changed, as Blunstone sings, “You find that you're in trouble/'Cause nothing is the same/Someone has to pay for making you over/There must be someone to take the blame.”

There is also the sweet “Love You While I Can” that touches on the importance of loving your partner to the fullest when you still have the chance, highlighted with the lyrics “I know someday/Some way I'm gonna look for your hand/I will love you while I can.”

While all of this may sound quite somber and a bit of a bummer, Blunstone does offer some hopeful wisdom on the last track “The Sun will Rise Again” when he sings “Day has gone and there's no turning back/Nothing ever ends/Don't let this emptiness get hold of you/The sun will rise again.”

Different Game is different in the best way possible and offers real, raw emotion you’ll be hard-pressed elsewhere..

For more, visit: The Zombies Official Website | Home (thezombiesmusic.com)

There’s a snippet of Ethan Hawke’s dialogue from the 1994 film Reality Bites used on the track “The Pink Seashell” on Fall Out Boy’s new album So Much (for) Stardust. In the audio clipping, Hawk’s character talks about the importance of enjoying the small details of life and the things we take for granted. At its core, So Much (for) Stardust tries to drive that point home while reflecting on how all of this will--or, perhaps more accurately, won’t— matter, years from now.

Complete with strings for added dramatic effect, Patrick Stump sings on “I Am My Own Muse”: “One day every candle's gotta run out of wax/One day no one will remember me when they look back/I can't stop, can't stop 'til we catch all your ears though/Somewhere between Mike Tyson and Van Gogh.” It’s this hook on mortality that is a constant reference on So Much (for) Stardust. Many of the songs here are heavy, both thematically and musically. “Heaven, Iowa” is probably the leader of this pack as it deals with the damage we can do to one another in relationships with the added lyric “I’m checking myself out forever.” While So Much (for) Stardust keeps the Fall Out Boy’s pop/punk edge intact, there is also a more grown-up sound here. “The Kintsugi Kid (Ten Years)” has an 80s adult rock “Boys of Summer” vibe to it, and the title track swings for the fence with more strings and an added choir.

There are stumbles, notably the out-of-place soul train derived “What a Time to be Alive,” but for the most part So Much (for) Stardust is an album that has something worth saying.

For more, visit: falloutboy.com

DINING REVIEW LA BALENA RISTORANTE

50 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE, LUNENBURG

(978) 696-3238

WWW.LABALENARISTORANTE.COM

BERNARD WHITMORE

Totally unfamiliar with Lunenburg, I typed the address for La Balena into my phone and, after proceeding north on Rt 190, we were led on a tour that took us through myriad intersections and what soon became an indistinct blur of faded commercial strips and residential neighborhoods. I cautioned myself to resist forming a bad first impression of the town; after all, what would someone think of Worcester if their introductory tour consisted of a drive down Mill Street through Webster Square and out to the cemeteries? Dismal.

Arriving at La Balena was like encountering an oasis after languishing in Death Valley. Bright and cheery, with simple decoration on clean white walls, we were welcomed and promptly shown to a table in one of their several dining areas.

It was early and the room was still empty, so I felt free to wander. Looking out a window I saw an abandoned patio with plenty of seating and a dry fieldstone waterfall. Silent for now, but with the return of warm weather it will be open soon. Back inside, Good Vibrations led a soundtrack of classic rock standards tuned so low as to be barely audible.

La Balena’s menu featured wide-ranging, classical Italian cuisine, with a scattering of surprises. Such as the Butter Board appetizer that piqued my curiosity with its nuts, edible flowers, greens and, I assume, shmear of butter. It sounded intriguing in a photogenic way, but my dining companion coaxed me back from the wild side, opting for

Fried Calamari, in this case tossed with hot peppers.

LB’s calamari were standard-issue rings and tentacles fried light golden brown. Thin slices of hot pepper were also breaded and fried. If someone in the party was averse to spicy, this app would work just fine; the heat of the peppers didn’t permeate the calamari; somehow both flavors coexisted in harmony. Of special note, though, was the marinara sauce, warm and chunky with rich tomato flavor. Perfect when dabbed on LB’s crusty-thick slices of yeasty Italian bread.

Once a common feature, the inclusion of salad with entrées has become an unusual treat. Thus, it was a pleasant surprise when our server asked our preference, House or Caesar salad? We opted for Caesar and were delighted with its crunchy greens topped with croutons and parmesan shavings. The dressing was just a bit tart and so creamy it coated each leaf.

My entrée choice had wandered several times before making a final decision. Cioppino? Little neck clams Fra Diavolo? Then I came to Squid Ink Linguine and my decision was made. Squid ink! I haven’t noticed it on a menu in ages. Nostalgia aside, it was a great choice. The bowl of thin black noodles looked like a nest of seaweed strewn with tender scallops and blistered cherry tomatoes; its steam breathed a delicate perfume of seafood and was drenched in a light lemony sauce studded with bits of mild garlic. It was an ideal dish for the warm weather ahead and

I matched it with a glass of Masianco Pinot Grigio. The crisp citrus flavor would be a refreshing counterpoint to any seafood dish.

Veal Saltimbocca, my companion’s entrée, arrived in two parts. At center, a wide bowl of pappardelle; extra-thick wide noodles dusted with chopped parsley soaked in sumptuous marsala sauce. Alongside it was placed a butter dish bearing two veal cutlets that had been lightly coated and pan-fried.

Was he supposed to slide the veal over the pasta? We didn’t ask. The marsala sauce was so immensely rich, though, that he was happy to keep them separated. Of the veal, he proclaimed, ‘Some of the best I’ve had! Juicy-moist and tender. Cooked perfectly!’

Technically faithful to the saltimbocca recipe, the veal was dabbed with small strips of prosciutto. However, we were unable to detect fresh sage. Chefs everywhere take liberties with this classic dish. What I look for is the fragrance of sage and strips of crispy prosciutto lining the veal. Then, just enough wine to deglaze the tasty brown bits from the pan is all this elegant dish requires.

After being welcomed by such friendly people and having enjoyed delicious Italian cuisine, my impression of Lunenburg was much elevated. And our return home from La Balena Ristorante was a cinch. We just rocked on to Electric Avenue.

what’s happening in the restaurant scene PAUL GIORGIO

MARK YOUR CALENDAR: The widely popular Taste of Shrewsbury Street returns Tuesday June 20 from 5-9 PM on Worcester’s Shrewsbury Street. This annual event with amazing food, live entertainment and block parties is not to be missed!

IT'S NOT THE BOMBAY BICYCLE CLUB: It appears that an Indian restaurant will be taking over the space that was once home to Maddie’s on Worcester’s Water Street. A recent Facebook post touted the soon to open Bombay Lounge at 64 Water Street.

HE GOT OVER HIS HANGOVER: It looks like Michael Arrastia, the former owner of the Hangover Pub in Worcester’s Canal district, has found a new home. Honest Hometown Eats will soon be opening at 13 Central Street in Southbridge.

TATNUCK SQUARE GETS ANOTHER BAKERY: The Cozy Bakery & Coffee recently opened its doors at 1094 Pleasant Street in the Kavon Plaza, near Mill Street. From its Facebook posts it looks like a full bakery, with cakes, pies, cookies and more.

A NEW CUISINE: It may not be a restaurant yet, but it is a new cuisine for Central Massachusetts. Worcester Filipino Cuisine was slated to start doing pop ups in the middle of April. Check them out on Facebook for locations, menu options and more!

IT'S BEEN OVER 100 YEARS: Local Chef Christopher Bairos recently purchased what was formerly known as Chefee’s 1921 Diner in Boylston. The diner which seats about 40 people does not have a name yet. He plans on serving diner food weekdays and then going upscale on Friday and Saturday nights.

HEY IT’S THE HALAL GUYS: The first Halal Guys restaurant west of I-495 opened in the middle of April at the White City Plaza along Route 9 in Shrewsbury. For those unfamiliar, Halal is a lot like kosher in its preparation.

GO FISH: It looks like the former Fish Restaurant in downtown Marlboro will reopen as Welly’s Kitchen. The owners of Welly’s Restaurant are looking to add what they describe as an “upscale eatery”. There are two Welly’s restaurants, one in Hudson and the other in Marlboro.

WANT TO OPEN A RESTAURANT: It appears that the former Donut Café space at the corner of June and Chandler Streets in Worcester is for lease. It’s 1400 square feet - perfect for a small place.

A WHALE OF A TIME: The Harpoon Worcester Beer Garden will be back for its second season the first week of May. The Beer Garden at Mercantile Plaza opened for the first time last summer and was a popular destination in Downtown Worcester. Manager Josh Briggs, said everything at the beer garden will be pretty much the same as it was last year.

FORK IT OVER: You can fork over some money to the Girls Scouts by attending their Fork it Over event on May 10th. This is the event where several area chefs compete to produce the best dish using girl scout cookies. The event is May 10th at Polar Park

IT’S NOT THE CAINE MUTINY: Raising Cane’s, a chicken finger restaurant will be opening its doors at 141 Boston Post Road in Marlboro the third week of May. This is the chain's third location in Massachusetts.

PULSEBREW

UNREFINED: FROM PALATE TO PALE ALE

JOIE GERHARDT

I poured samples of black lager with barrel-aged sumatra beans, a honey and citrus accented weissbier, and a tropical DIPA into the glasses of 850+ patrons. Our table at this year’s Brew Woo stood alongside the reps of 80 other local craft breweries. With heaps of attendees, each table had just moments to “woo” them before they resumed their sample-binge. After my team served the masses, we each stole away to participate in our own tastings. Attending Worcester’s beer fest was strategic– I was traveling to Crescent City, Florida the following day, a sleepy town with sparse brewery options, each requiring a 20+ mile drive. My family trips are almost nefariously centered around craft beer-deserts like this one. While I’m no stranger to a limited beer selection, I’ve become spoiled by New England’s offerings. I reflected on this privilege while descending into an objectively barren land.

In my formative beer-drinking days, I sipped from light-damaged bottles and lugged a dripping cooler down the path of a pristine beach, a scene equivalent to the framework of a Corona commercial. The U.S. Virgin Islands, with its drool-worthy views and salty provisions, initially missed the boat on quality imports (trigger-warning: more wordplay ahead). Island brew culture is growing, but the majority of menus are grounded in domestics from Anheuser-Busch and its rival giants. My inaugural pick was Coors Light, for hydration purposes. My town’s sole taproom later offered me a rudimentary lesson on approachable German styles. From there- I was hooked on wheats (alternatively, ‘I was ridin’ with Weizens!’). I felt cultured, but still hadn’t grasped the global significance of beer- An accidental birth that sparked revolution: from survival to ritual, medieval hobby to a global artform. I certainly didn’t understand the bitter assault of hops or the purpose of a full-bodied beer.

To no one’s surprise, my palate convulsed with culture-shock upon voyage to NEIPA country. I was a light-wheat-drinking-light-weight, hoisted into a region famed for its generously hopped brews. Luckily, I found my taste buds in the care of the Deadhorse Hill crew during development of the late, great, Simjang. They nursed my fledgling buds, pairing craft cocktails and local beer to creative dishes from the kitchen. New England IPAs still hadn’t won me over, but a brewery tour in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania challenged that. My friend brought me to Bonn Place Brewing Co. where I scanned the board before sampling his take on a New England IPA “Skootch”. It blew. my. socks. off. Did my palate finally come around, or was the ‘cover song’ better than the original? Get those pitchforks ready, Yankees.

New IPA obsession ignited, I set out on a year’s long IPA affair before joining the ranks at Redemption Rock Brewing Co. in 2021.This role has been a hands-on education in the true craft of brewing and the multiple hats required to make it all click. I’ve garnered the skills to empower the craft-beer curious and grapple with beer snobs alike. Through fests, courses, and hard-earned lessons (a face sprayed with beer from faulty keg changes) I’ve fallen deep into the craft beer cult. As my trip down South comes to an end, I’m happy to report that a local packie offered some of the great craft that Florida has to offer- J. Wakefield, Invasive Species, and Funky Buddha. Until I return to New England’s treasures, I’ll settle into this Spanish-moss shaded porch, with a fruity wheat in hand.

Join me for the next craft-culture adventure. Cheers!

WORCESTER AIRPORT

LUANN THIBODEAU

Sitting high atop a hill in Worcester sits a place that a lot of folks don’t realize is there is the Worcester Regional Airport. While it doesn’t rival Logan Airport in size or the number of flights offered, for people living in the area, it provides the three C's- close proximity, convenience, and much less congestion. Oh, and no Boston traffic.

On a recent Sunday afternoon, I visited the airport for the first time. And after talking with several folks who were happy to be flying from Worcester, as well as walking around and checking the place out, I have to say that I was impressed.

Expansion plans are happening at the airport, and on Monday, JetBlue announced that flights to Orlando will resume in June, and also that flights will begin to Fort Myers in January. This is fantastic news for Red Sox fans, as Fort Myers is the spring training home of the team, who play their games there at JetBlue Park. These new flights are in addition to the daily flights to Fort Lauderdale that are currently available. More ways to Florida sounds like a terrific idea. JetBlue also offers two daily flights to JFK Airport in New York City.

In addition to JetBlue, American Airlines has daily service to JFK Airport in New York City. And Delta Airlines has daily service to LaGuardia Airport, also in New York City.

For the business commuter, Worcester Regional Airport is a win-win situation. Daily flights are available to NYC, parking is a breeze, and the lines to get through security are much, much shorter than in Boston. There are also the perks of free Wi-Fi in the airport, as well as food and sundries stores, and car rentals on site, providing easy pickup and drop-off.

Rectrix Aviation is also at the airport, as a fixed base operator (FBO), providing exceptional service to both the aircraft operators and the executives who use corporate or private jets. The Rectrix Aerodrome Center has 20,000 square feet of heated hangar space, a flight planning room, a pilot’s lounge, and more.

All around, Worcester Regional Airport is a gem, situated high on the hill. I have to say that I will be flying out one of these days, and even though there are no direct flights to my final destination, I’ll fly to New York City and make the connection there.

Oh, and did I forget to mention that the view from up at the airport is amazing? Well worth a field trip to check it out.

For more specific information on the airport, visit the website at https:// www.massport.com/worcester-airport/at-the-airport/. And happy traveling!

STYLE Savvy

APRIL GODDARD

Hello and Happy May Pulse Readers!

What a fabulous spring we have had so far! The weather is giving 100% summer is on the horizon, and I am absolutely loving it. Style Savvy is here to bring you more of the new and now for this season! There are several trends that I am personally loving right now, and I encourage you all to try them out and make these things your own. So read on to discover 4 new trends that will put you on point for this May!

1. The Stylish Water Bottle: Everyone has seen the viral Stanley and Yeti among other trending cups. These, along with countless others are great options for a daily reusable water bottle. The main takeaway is that currently health, fitness, and staying hydrated in the most aesthetic way possible is super on trend. My favorite? I like my giant pink tumbler that I put my water in every morning. I think that something about carrying around something that is really pretty helps me to remember to drink water throughout the day.

2. Preppy Vibes: This is very reminiscent of the “Coastal Grandmother” trend that started going viral last year. Think your grandmother who lives on the Cape, Martha’s Vineyard, or even the Hamptons who wears cozy knit sweaters, collars with the shirt popped, cute pearls, and gardens with an adorable floppy sun hat. Think of what she would wear and you basically have the coastal grandmother. Preppy extends out a bit more to not just basic beiges, but to nautical stripes, hues of blue, pretty florals paired with white denim, and khakis. You can get so creative and broad with the “preppy” look, and if 100% preppy is too much for you, then pick your favorite pieces of the trend and try it out by adding it to your own style!

3. Sporty Chic: We all know the tried, true, and very much loved (especially by me!) trend of athleisure. Taking some cues from the preppy trend, The Sporty Chic Trend is inspired by literal uniforms, think golf and tennis. Crisp white tennis shoes, flowy skorts, collared shirts and a visor can take you from the court to the course to brunch easily. My favorite combo is a skort, a sleeveless collared shirt and a light sweater tied over my shoulders. I love combining white, cream, and light beiges together because 1) Neutrals are great, and 2) the lighter hues I pick the cooler I am in this hot weather.

4. “Pilates Girl” Look (AKA Athleisure): I know that this trend has a totally different name now, but to me this is along the same lines of the athleisure trend that has been with us for the last 8-10 years. I think that the main difference in this trend is the emphasis on matching sets as well as the prominence of pastel colors.

I hope that you have enjoyed this Style Savvy! Remember, there are no right or wrong ways to wear trends, so try something new and make it your very own!

MORE UPCOMING SHOWS THIS SUMMER!

THE POET’S CAULDRON, COOKING UP THE JOY OF COMMUNITY

IRENA KACI

I couldn’t say how I first heard about the Poet’s Cauldron. Much like the shifting of seasons, I simply woke up and the Worcester world of poetry had blossomed. The White Room, situated in the Canal District, one of the city’s hippest neighborhoods, began hosting the cathartic event on the 3rd Sunday of the month at the turn of the year.

I had the absolute delight of speaking with the organizing mastermind behind it all, BrujaTheVillain. Bruja is pixielike in stature, but has the otherworldly ability to effect monumental change. An artist and a poet, at heart, Bruja has been actively beautifying her community for all of her life.

One of the local haunts where she made an impression was the Dirty Gerund at Ralph’s Diner. “I used to visit the Dirty Gerund every Monday night, I love slam, I love spoken word, I enjoyed being up on stage and making myself vulnerable for everyone. Then I started doing slams with them. I even had my art featured there in that space and, as a result, hold the record for the painting sold at the highest bid in auction. “

A few years ago, Bruja made a personal choice to withdraw from public life. “I left my art, my poetry, everything and just took a long break. Then last year, while chatting with my friends Lou and Birgit, owners of the White Room, I remembered how much I’d missed spoken word performances and poetry. They were looking for an event to host in the space, and so a collaboration began.” It was that collaboration that became the Poet’s Cauldron.

“I worked really hard at promoting it, I went door to door on foot to local businesses, called up old artists friends, just really got the word out. Lou, Birgit and I met every Sunday the two months before the first event. On opening night, I was so nervous. Lou asked me if I thought we’d get up to 60 people. I tried to remain confident, but responded that even if we only got 15 people we’d still have a good time, and put on a good show.” Of course, no one needed to worry. That first event drew in 160 people and the crowds have not slowed down.” And it is easy to see why.

I attended the most recent event in April, and upon entering the white room, the feelings of inclusion and belonging are palpable. Between the twinkle lights strung up overhead, & the smooth musical accompaniment, the space invites relaxation and opening yourself up to the experience.

MAY 5: MUSIC WITH BOOMBOX DOORS 7:30PM / SHOW 8PM

MAY 10: SPRING CENTERPIECE PAINT & SIP 6PM-8PM

MAY 14: MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH 10AM-3PM

MAY 20: COMEDY NIGHT FT. PAUL D’ANGELO AND GUEST JEFF KOEN HOSTED BY JACKIE FLYNN DOORS 6:30PM / SHOW 7:30PM

JUN 22: COMEDY NIGHT WITH JIMMY CASH, STEVE BJORK, & EMILY RUSKOWSKI DOORS 6:30PM / SHOW 7:30PM

JUL 20: COMEDY NIGHT WITH CHRISTINE HURLEY, DAN CROHN, & DAN MILLER DOORS

/ SHOW 7:30PM

AUG 24: COMEDY NIGHT WITH PAUL NARDIZZI, WILL NOONAN, & ANDREW DELLA VOLPE DOORS 6:30PM / SHOW 7:30PM

TICKETS & RESERVATIONS AT WWW.SAMUELSLATERS.COM

Lake Tours and Specialty Cruises

MARGARITAVILLE CRUISE / JUNE 1 / 6:30PM

LAKE TOUR / JUNE 3 / 10AM

SUNSET TOUR / June 9 / 7:30PM

LAKE TOUR / JUNE 10 / 4PM

LAKE TOUR / JUNE 11 / 10AM

SUNSET TOUR / June 16 / 7:30PM

LAKE TOUR / JUNE 17 / 10AM

100 FM THE PIKE DISCO DANCE PARTY

HOSTED BY CHUCK PERKS / JUNE 24 / 6:30PM

SUNSET TOUR / June 30 / 7:30PM

LAKE TOUR / JULY 1 / 10AM

When pressed to take stock of her 30 odd year career, Bruja is not quick to make sweeping statements. “I can’t tell you what my proudest moment has been in my career because most of it comes from trauma but I see what I’ve done and how it has affected people. I know I’ve been asked to perform and display my work countless times in countless spaces. I know that in my career I’ve attracted doctors, lawyers, politicians alongside, my people from the hood, rappers, soul singers, artists and chefs. Everybody shares the same space.”

Though Bruja occasionally participates in the open mic night herself, she is committed to helping her own community shine. “I’ve gotten a lot of opportunities in my time. It’s important to me to allow other folks to get on stage and share their stories.”

The Cauldron is going strong and the shows are booked six months out. “It has become an oasis. I make sure that it’s a safe space, that’s number one for me. The audience and performers are multigenerational, multicultural, different genders, and not all of them go on stage but they engage, and that’s major.”

The Cauldron’s next performance on May 21st will feature the two Worcester Poet Laureates, Oliver de la Paz and Adael Meija. “They have different backgrounds and styles and I’m looking forward to seeing them both on stage.”

CRUISE / AUGUST 3 / 6:30PM

FOR FULL CRUISE SCHEDULE AND TICKETS VISIT WWW.INDIANRANCH.COM/CRUISES

call 508.943.3871. For information on private events, banquets and renting the Indian Princess Paddlewheel Boat, contact banquets@samuelslaters.com. Indian Ranch is less than an hour’s drive from Boston, Providence, Hartford and Springfield. Indian Ranch is located at 200 Gore Road in Webster, MA.

Bruja is hopeful that the Cauldron will help revitalize the poetry community and give other event creators a foothold. “My hopes are that it does flourish into something bigger than me, and I hope to be able to pass it down to someone else entirely.” If, or when, the time comes Bruja’s witchy boots will be some big shoes to fill.

420

IN THE

0 5 8

ERIC CASEY

As part of my job covering the weed beat, I frequent the “cannabis” section of one of the nation’s largest press release databases. Most of the releases I see here are either a bunch of financial mumbo jumbo or meaningless hype meant to drive up the value of cannabis stocks, so I was happy to find a link to a new study — conducted by some company called Real Estate Witch — proclaiming to have determined “the best city for cannabis in America.”

Opening up the page, I wondered where amongst the top ten our fair city would fall. After all, it’s clear to anyone who is familiar with the New England cannabis scene that Worcester is one of the top pot cities in America. Our 14 dispensaries include outlets representing everyone from the largest cannabis companies in the world to small, locally and minority owned shops. Plus, anyone familiar with this publication knows that there’s endless entertainment options to enjoy here in Worcester while stoned.

So I was shocked to see that Worcester is nowhere to be found on this list. Local rivals like Hartford and Providence somehow pass us, and even more baffling is the fact that several cities in states with cannabis laws stuck in the 1980s (like Utah and Texas) are featured on the top 50 list. Even the worst city on the list — Birmingham, Alabama — is apparently somehow better than Worcester.

Taking a look at the metrics used by this so-called study, it quickly becomes obvious why its findings were bunk. Some of the items that influence a city’s score include the amount of dispensary ratings and overall web traffic it provides to Leafly. com (one of the study’s partners, of course!) and how many Taco Bells it has per 100,000 residents (cringe).

While Worcester’s disappointing ratio of just 1.456 Taco Bells per 100,000 residents apparently puts us behind renowned culinary hotspots like Jacksonville and Salt Lake City, I think our city’s large number of locally owned restaurants that serve food that is actually edible is a slightly more important metric for cannabis-focused visitors to consider.

This study also fails to take into account the fact that Worcester is home to the state’s Cannabis Control Commission, as well as the region’s only cannabis consumption lounge. Even corporate institutions like the local Chamber of Commerce and the city’s minor league baseball franchise have established various relationships and partnerships with cannabis businesses and organizations, proving that (unlike a dozens of cities on the list) Worcester has little shame about embracing this newly legal industry.

I’m not the only one to note Worcester’s rightful place as one of the top cannabis destinations in America; as Travis covered in a previous 420 in 508, a study conducted by LawnStarter in 2021 showed us to be in the top 20 cities in the country to get stoned.

Apparently anybody can do some calculations and come up with their own top cannabis city list. That’s why I’m excited to announce that after conducting a very scientific study of my own, I’ve determined that Worcester is in fact the best city for cannabis in America. I used the following formula to make this calculation:

1. Is the city Worcester, Massachusetts?

a. If yes, 500 points.

b. If no, zero points.

Worcester demolished the competition, coming in 1st place with 500 points. The rest of the 249 largest municipalities in the U.S. tied for 2nd, with zero points.

Congratulations to Worcester!

Eric Casey is a Worcester-based writer who mostly focuses on the cannabis space. You can find his other work at www.BurnAfterReading.blog, or on instagram @BurnAfterReading420.

WORCESTER AUDITORIUM VINCENT PACIFICO

One of the city’s most iconic buildings, The Worcester Memorial Auditorium, is on the road to redevelopment. Sitting at the edge of Lincoln Square, this historic five story building was designed by Worcester Architect Lucius Briggs alongside Frederick C. Hirons of New York City. The building was completed in 1933 and was meant to honor the 355 Worcester residents who died at battle during World War I. The building was the first of its kind in Worcester and was the first auditorium in the city. Over the years it has served the community as an excellent performing arts venue and has hosted concerts, games and ceremonies of all kinds.

The building features a Classical Revival exterior, a beautifully ornamented limestone facade and a grand staircase in the front leading up to the main entrance. Massive doric style columns tower over the front entry giving the front facade a strong and prominent look. Ornamentation is visible on all of the facades which contributes to the classical look of the structure. The building’s interior features an Art Deco Style, a main auditorium space that is 31,000 square feet which seats 3,508 people, a Kimball Pipe Organ along with a smaller space called the Little Theater which seats 675 people. The building also houses a memorial chamber commemorating those who lost their lives in World War I, which has three murals done by Leon Kroll; most notably “Shine of the Immortal”.

Currently the building sits vacant, deteriorating as the years pass. From water damage to deteriorating facades, it will take quite an overhaul to bring life back into this magnificent structure. With the help of the Architectural Heritage Foundation, the building may have found a new use. Being such a large building with 165,000 square feet of space available, it is being proposed to be revitalized into a mixed use complex including performance venues, educational spaces, office space and even retail. The new development will engage the community in new spaces focused around technology, education, digital media and much more. The revitalization of this building will benefit from the historic tax credit program with the National Park Service and will retain much of its historic character into its future. With a combination between its historic architectural fabric and the new contemporary design renovations that the project will include, it will be one of the most unique buildings the city has ever seen.

While originally built for the community of Worcester to come together and share moments, it is nice to see the same vision for the future state of the building. Lots of work and funding is what will ultimately kickstart this project, but there is no doubt that it will be a worthwhile effort contributing to the revitalization of the city. Whether it’s a performance, conference or a casual visit, your next trip to the Aud will surely be an unforgettable one.

steps and carvings by Liz West_on Flickr

LET’S GO BRAVEHEARTS

I think we can all agree that Worcester has changed a lot in the last decade, from basically everything about Kelley Square to new restaurants seemingly popping up weekly, but there has been one constant: the Bravehearts. I had the opportunity to speak with the Bravehearts Director of Fan Experience and Media, Donny Porcaro Jr, about their upcoming tenth season, and there is a lot to get excited about.

“This is our 10 year anniversary. I think that that is the number one thing that we're focused on with the Bravehearts this year because, especially in the city of Worcester, we look at that as a pretty big accomplishment,” Porcaro begins, “We’re thriving right now, which is awesome. One thing that's really cool about this franchise is it seems like every year there's a different storyline. Over the last two years, there has really been this resurgence of the Worcester Bravehearts and kind of new school model that we're really excited to bring to the city where it's a lot more entertainment focus, you know, we still have great baseball and a lot of the stuff that we do is fan focused.”

The Bravehearts season will officially begin on Wednesday, May 24th. “We’re calling it opening morning, it's going to have the same vibe in the same atmosphere. You're going to see players doing crazy things, you're going to see players go up in the crowd and sign autographs with the kids, maybe put on a funny costume. Fans are going to get that crazy, funky Braveheart style,” Porcaro says. Opening night on Friday, May 26th also promises to be a game fans won’t want to miss. “We're going to have a lot of alumni there. It's going to be a big celebration not only from the player side of things, we will have players from 2014, 2015, 2016, really every year, but a big thing that we're going to honor is the people that have been with us for ten years, the sponsors, our partners and our groups who continue to come back year after year,” Porcaro says.

Of course all your favorite events from the Bravehearts 2022 season will be back, including Fans Choose the Rules. “The people who saw it last year were like, ‘we need to go back and see what's going to be the rules this year and see what craziness they can do this year’”, Porcaro laughs. Fans can look forward to Home Run Derby after every Sunday home game, “It gives fans an experience that they're not going to see anywhere else.” This also includes a “Design Your Own Jersey” promotion in partnership with Boston Children’s Hospital. The Bravehearts will provide the kids with blank jerseys that will all be worn on their July 23rd homegame. The Saturday Night Live Concert Series, where bands will be performing under the tent during the home game. Of course there’s Friday Night Fireworks and All You Can Eat Tickets with access to a private concessions stand too.

The most unique promo of all is for anyone with a Bravehearts tattoo. “If you have a Bravehearts tattoo, you get season tickets for life,” Porcaro says, estimated there are about twenty hardcore fans who have them. “We definitely love all of our fans that have the tattoos and it's pretty awesome to have them shown at the ballpark. If you pull up his sleeve, Jake the mascot, actually has a city of Worcester tattoo on his arm.”

Celebrate the Bravehearts 10th anniversary all summer long at Fitton Field, and maybe even consider getting a new tattoo.

JENNY PACILLO BRAVEHEARTS DIRECTOR OF FAN EXPERIENCE AND MEDIA

DONNY PORCARO JR. DONNY PORCARO JR.

KNOWS SPORTS?

Shaun2

SHAUN CONNOLLY THE DO’S AND DON’TS OF MASCOT INTERACTION

With the warmer weather hitting us, the NBA and NHL Playoffs in full swing, the golf majors on their way, the US Tennis Open around the corner and the UEFA Champions League final barrelling towards the end I can’t help but think of one thing: minor league baseball mascots.

As I have written before I was a professional mascot for a decade. It was my campus job while I was in college and then later as Twister for the infamous Worcester Tornadoes. In college, I didn’t just do football games and basketball games. Our women’s volleyball team went to the National Championships twice while I was enrolled and our wrestling team won a National Championship. But I attended softball, baseball, fundraising walks, elementary school spree days, and new business ribbon cuttings. I got crowned Homecoming King, as the mascot mind you, because the students were being reprimanded for over-partying. I have endured a lot of different climates while dressed up like a furry bear and the worst of the worst is a humid July day game for 3,000 pre-adolescent campers.

The heat, plus the suit (which does not breathe well), plus the hot breath of 50 kids asking for a picture or a hug or an autograph is already panic inducing. Then, at the end of a half inning, the PA starts blaring the Spongebob Squarepants theme song and those thousands of kids are screaming every word. They are all buzzing from sugar and excitement and then their favorite show’s theme song comes on. The hundred that I am surrounded by are pulling and tugging and screaming and crying. One kid was just jumping up and down on my foot and two others jumped on my back trying to see who was inside their beloved Twister. My heart races reliving this moment to you now and I hope you don’t endure anything like it.

So as you head to a game or two or five this summer, here are 5 tips to help you and your local mascot can each enjoy America’s pastime:

1. Do not pull on tails, ears, shirts, hats, or any other extremity, apparel or body part.

This kind feels like a no brainer, like it’s how you should live as a human being, but especially for a mascot they don’t have the periphery and quickness that most humans do. They are pretty vulnerable and do not want to be touched despite their resemblance to a plushy. (side note one a drunk man tackled me and my mascot head rolled down the left field line, when security asked him why he did it and he responded saying, “I thought there was more cushion in there.”

2. Do not yell into the mouth and ask who is in there.

Have I ended up meeting a very beautiful girl this way and end up making out with her in the woods during a kegger? But that sad occurrence is the best possible situation. Most times the person inside there is just smelling your dehydrated breath.

3. Do not let your kid hang out with a mascot.

While most mascots do get CORI checked, they are still people who are working and not babysitters so you can get drunk at the game. Our job is entertainment, not entertaining young children.

4. Know that the mascot is probably not smiling when you take a photo. They’ll pose with you, but they don’t have to like it. Especially if any of the first three things have already happened.

5. If the mascot is heading to their break, let them have their break. The mascot will be back. They need this. They need the water, or to cool off or just punch a pillow because you were driving them a little crazy. It can get claustrophobic in there and if one more person just taps their shoulder while they are having a panic attack, they may just snap.

Let’s go WooSox, let’s go Bravehearts, “let’s go” to any team in the area that you go see. You’re there for the game, the amenities and the mascot. This column is dedicated to any and all, but especially Jake the Lion and all of the Red Sox mascots.

NEW IN THE WOO: CRAFTED BY CAIT HAIR STUDIO

Caitlyn Langlois, the beauty and brains behind one of Worcester’s newest salons, says she is fortunate to be on her way to achieving her dreams. Having attended Empire Beauty School in Framingham and getting her cosmotology license in 2015, this vibrant creative is excited to be doing what she loves every day…making people look and feel amazing. She looks forward to meeting and getting to know new clients and understanding what they are truly looking for in a color or cut.

“I worked in a busy salon with many other wonderful stylists for a while,” says Cait, “but I found myself getting really distracted with everyone talking, multiple hairdryers going, and the hustle of it all. I really wanted to have a more creative environment where I had the freedom to go above and beyond.”

A few of her former colleagues turned friends had branched out on their own in the last couple of years, and she is grateful for the support they have given her as she ventured into business ownership.

“It’s so nice to be around like minded people,” Cait says. Though Cait can create expressly unique styles, her favorite thing to do is balayage, or hair painting, where the color is swept onto the hair for a more natural highlighted look that is not as evenly patterned as traditional highlighting. In fact, she is Masters of Balayage certified so you know you are going to leave looking like luxury.

“I love a lived-in look,” shares Cait. I really enjoy balancing natural colors in such a way that it looks like it was always supposed to be that way.”

When asked what big trends she was seeing for Spring, Cait shared that cuts with shorter angles in front that cascade toward length seems to be pretty popular right now, along with the curtain bangs.

“Long hair has been a huge thing lately too, especially with a texturized ‘just came from the beach’ look. Popular colors right now are a mushroom brown and various shades of copper,” Cait tells us.

With high school proms on the horizon, she has some great ideas for beautiful hair down looks that she would love to have people come in for. She shared that her cousin Tiffany owns Brighteyes Beauty Bar down the street,

so people can see her for hair and then go there for makeup for a super convenient experience.

Looking toward the remainder of 2023 and beyond, Cait has a spirit of energy and adventure.

“I feel very thankful to have this space to create. I am so thrilled to have my friends by my side working at their own suites in the same building (Michelle Elizabeth Salon and Chase Hair Studio), and really, I couldn’t have done any of this without them,” she says.

With Worcester being a city that welcomes small business owners and entrepreneurs, Caitlyn can’t help but be optimistic.

“When you go into this industry as a stylist, it is a hard road that is sometimes difficult to stick with, but there are also so many possibilities and options – it’s limitless – so you can really thrive too. It was the best decision I have ever made in my life,” she shares.

Crafted by Cait is located at 1023 Southbridge St, Suite 109 right here in Worcester. Appointments can be booked by visiting the glossgenius.com/ craftedbycait website or contacting her via email at craftedbycait22@ gmail.com. Check out some of her amazing work on her Instagram page: @craftedby_cait

JENNIFER RUSSO