JULY 2015 COVER story
IN THIS ISSUE Lifestyle
SWIMSUIT ISSUE
24 Great summer finds!
entertainment
25 OUT+ABOUT: Pride throughout the year
6
12 The andelmans bring their a game to
mendon
12
26 EverydaySCIENCE: Little suns
FOOD & DRINK
13 PulseBOOKS: Summer reading at its finest
28
28 NEW AROUND THE WOO: New City Microcreamery
14 Nowstreaming:
29 Hot & Now
Faith No More / Mackintosh Braun / If We Go At All
15 THE central scene
30 Dining Review: GazBar proves sports bar fare can be distinctive dining
16 Inside the mayhem
ART & CULTURE 30 The City that chairs built
17 GameON: Dragonball Xenoverse delivers a blast of new energy
18 Club, Pub & grub Listings 22 PulseShots
read pulse Online @ ThePulseMag.com
BEAUTY & sTYLE
follow us on social media:
34 Summer hair: 3 styles in 3 minutes 35 STEAL THE STYLE: Cut it out swimsuit
Follow us on Twitter @WorcesterPulse Follow us on Instagram @PulseMag_Worc Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/thepulsemagazine
PULSE Magazine is produced 12 times a year by Pagio Inc., 88 Winter St., Worcester, MA 01604. (508) 756-5006. Copyright 2012 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 Justin Perry, Photographer Chris Reddy, Kerry Cyganiewicz, Account Executives
Kim Dunbar, Sports Editor Jennifer Russo, Lifestyle Editor Kimberly Dunbar, Jennifer Russo, Jason Savio, Bernie Whitmore, Michael Wood, Paul Giorgio, R.J. Linton, Ryan Cashman Kerry Cyganiewicz, John Trobaugh, Jamie Burke Writers
JULY 2015 | THEPULSEMAG.COM 5
C O V E R S T O R Y
Thanks to Everything But Water for providing swimsuits from its 30th anniversary collection. Everything But Water has stores in Natick, Burlington and Lynnfield. Suits can also be purchased at everythingbutwater.com.
Glamour is a thing of the past. There’s nothing like the style of Old Hollywood. The dresses, the hats, the shoes – everything just seemed a little more glamorous back then. Fortunately, it’s easy to go glam with retro styles that are a throwback to iconic looks of past It girls like Bo Derek and Jean Shrimpton.
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INSPIRED BY BO DEREK IN “10” Bo Derek made the one-piece sexy. With the smile, the braids and the beaded suit, Derek brought a Bohemian flair to the silver screen. You can imitate Derek’s look with the iconic beads and golden color with the addition of cut-out sides that make for a modern silhouette. Ale by Alessandra for the Everything But Water 30th Anniversary. $184.
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INSPIRED BY PEGGY MOFFITT IN RUDI GERNREICH The model that first wore Gernreich’s monokini was also the muse for the designer’s stunning cut-out swimsuit. This is a suit for a woman who wants to be sexy, strong and refined. Karla Colletto for the Everything But Water 30th Anniversary. $455.
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INSPIRED BY JEAN SHRIMPTON A well-placed bow is Kate Spade New York’s signature detail. This classically feminine blush maillot will bring a touch of supermodel Jean Shrimpton and her iconic fashion sense to beaches far and near. Kate Spade New York for the Everything But Water 30th Anniversary. $173.
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INSPIRED BY SALLY FIELD AS “GIDGET” Gidget was the essence of freedom in a time when women were coming into their own. Feminine and athletic, Gidget could go from a day of hitting the surf to a romantic evening with Moondoggie. This update includes bright colors and a ruffle. PilyQ for the Everything But Water 30th Anniversary. Top, $78. Bottom, $74.
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Special thanks to: Justin Mayotte (Photographer) Ross Kavanagh (Assistant Photographer) Hannah Lawson (Hair and Makeup Artist) Brandon Richards (Model) Nicole LaFrance (Model) Megan Meisenheimer (Model) Lorain McKenney (Model) Tom Arsenault (Model)
JULY 2015 | THEPULSEMAG.COM 11
E N T E R TA I N M E N T
The Andelmans bring their A game to Mendon By Maxine Giza Mix pizza, popcorn and beer with movies and bands, toss in your own wheels, and you have a winning combination of the nostalgic drive-in movie experience and today’s modern amenities. That is exactly what the Andelman Brothers, of Phantom Gourmet fame, have done with the Mendon Twin Drive-In. Over the past few years, the Andelman clan engaged in conversation with the owners Want to check out the action? The Mendon Twin Drive-In is located at 35 Milford St., Mendon. Admission is $5 per vehicle of the Mendon Twin Drive-In, discussing their interest in purchasing one of just three for up to six people. For more information, visit MendonDriveIn.com. drive-ins left in Massachusetts and of a few hundred nationwide. Drive-in theaters were once all the rage, but have since become far less commonplace. Keeping the Mendon Twin Drive-In going strong was a venture that proved to be right up the alley of the Andelman brothers – Dave and Dan “It feels like a (who regularly host Phantom Gourmet) and Michael (who occasionally With a penchant for entertainment, the brothers are doing all they appears on the show). cruise ship. Just can to make the Mendon Twin Drive-In not just a place for evening movies, but a hub where families can push the worries of the world everyone has the The drive-in has a special meaning to the family, as the brothers aside and enjoy classic, affordable fun. While the drive-in is often frequently enjoyed watching movies there while growing up. Last best time.” thought of as an iconic place to take a date, this establishment is clearly winter, the sale came to fruition. “It was very gratifying to us when we more than that. “You see families with kids in their pajamas; you see – Dave Andelman bought it,” Dave Andelman said. “We were not really prepared for how older couples who have been doing it for 50 years,” Andelman said. “It excited people were going to be that it was us.” feels like a cruise ship. Just everyone has the best time.”
an entertainment hot spot
a modern touch on nostalgia
Last year, the theater featured several Jimmy Buffet satellite concerts to entertain young and old visitors alike. Recently, the Mendon Twin Drive-In was a closed-circuit site for the With that excitement comes great expectation, Andelman noted, acknowledging that UFC 186. Those who are firm believers that an event worth going to has food like no other people had high hopes that he and his brothers would really put their name on the drive- will likely be drawn to the upcoming Junk Food Jam over Labor Day weekend. “We just want interesting, fun things going on there all the time,” Andelman said. in, and that they have. “We are putting our heart and soul into it,” he said. The brothers spent the entire off-season making revisions and enhancements to the 61-yearold theater. “I think either me or one of my brothers has been there every night since we took it over,” said Andelman. “It’s a labor of love.”
Longtime fans of the Mendon Twin Drive-In may notice the tree-lined property will host guests more often than in the past. “Instead of using it 600 hours a year, let’s try – if we can – a few thousand hours a year,” Andelman said. One way the property will be put to greater use is when a wedding is held on the site in the fall.
The brothers’ hard work and business acumen are evident throughout the establishment. The nearly 16-acre property has been updated to include a new sound system, patio and beer garden. Plus, the Phantom Gourmet flair takes center stage with a new menu chock-full of classic options and newer mouthwatering treats. These changes were completed with the It’s important to note it’s not just the Andelman brothers pumping life into the Mendon idea of making it easier for people to simply relax and enjoy themselves. Twin Drive-In. The whole production involves a workforce of energetic adults and “Why inconvenience people by making them stop and get pizza?” Andelman asked. “Why teenagers with the goal of making the establishment one of the most-loved entertainment not serve it fresh, hot right there?” Other tasty goodies include hamburgers, mac and cheese venues around. In fact, a sign in the staff lounge reads, “Let’s work together to make this the bites, eight sodas, red wine and white wine. In addition, soft pretzels and popcorn are most fun, best run drive-in in the nation.” Andelman said the crew would be disappointed prepared on site. if they fell short of that goal when the drive-in closes for the season this fall.
An all-star cast
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p u l se B O O K S: Summer reading at its finest By Kimberly Dunbar The Goo Goo Dolls once sang: “Scars are souvenirs you never lose; the past is never far.” This summer, there are two brand-new beach reads that encompass the exact notion that the memories of a painful past will always haunt you, no matter how far you run. In her latest book, New York Times best-selling author Karen White explores the effects of a family’s buried history. In The Sound of Glass (New American Library), White introduces the reader to Merritt Heyward, a woman still reeling from guilt over her husband’s sudden death and the pain of her mother’s tragic passing. When Merritt learns that her husband Cal’s late grandmother has bequeathed her home to her deceased grandson, she sees it as an opportunity for a fresh start. Merritt uproots her life in Maine and moves into Cal’s childhood home in South Carolina, but what she finds when she gets there is the exact opposite of what she wants: company. With the intrusion of her too-young stepmother and 10-year-old halfbrother, Cal’s mysterious legacy (including a handsome brother), and a suitcase full of secrets, Merritt finds anything but peace. While she might not find what she was originally looking for, she discovers what she ultimately needs to heal. White’s story – which was inspired by the 1955 crash of United Airlines Flight 629 – is a touching tale of forgiveness, friendship and taking chances on love. Summer Secrets (St. Martin’s Press) is the new novel by acclaimed author Jane Green, who hits a homerun with her tale of a recovering alcoholic who can’t seem to shake the sins of her past. In this emotionally charged novel, Green tells the story of Cat, a journalist living in London who has struggled with fitting in and maintaining sobriety throughout her life. At 29, she learns her recently deceased – and Reader bonus: Jane Green will participate in a unloving – dad is not her real father, and she literary luncheon and book signing on July 9 at is introduced to a new biological family in Where the Sidewalk Ends bookstore in Harwich. Nantucket. (Her mother, stuck in an unhappy For more information, visit booksonthecape.com. marriage, had a summer fling while visiting her aunt on the Massachusetts island). Cat finally feels like she has found her place in the world among her new family – until she ruins it with her drinking. After years of struggling with alcoholism, laced with bouts of sobriety and relapses, she finally hits rock bottom, losing her husband, her daughter and her job. She realizes that she must make amends with those she has hurt in the past. Her journey through sobriety brings her back to Nantucket nearly 15 years after the incident that changed her life and the lives of her half-sisters. What follows is an honest and very real account of the courage it takes to face one’s past, accept one’s flaws and embrace love and forgiveness when you least expect it. JULY 2015 | THEPULSEMAG.COM 13
streaming:
Faith No More / Sol Invictus
Mackintosh Braun / Arcadia
By Jennifer Russo
By Michael Wood
Fans have been waiting … and waiting … and waiting for Faith No More to release another album. For a band to have its own unique signature sound is a true feat. Eighteen years ago or so, I was devastated to think that the FNM journey was over. I loved every album the band created, and Mike Patton has one of those incomparable voices. There will never be another Faith No More. Along with the excitement of FNM releasing a new album this year was the fear that it may not measure up. I was almost afraid to listen to it, dreading that it may be like some other bands’ comeback albums. Thanks be, this CD actually rocks. It honors the band’s glory days and the sound that has made it famous without sounding dated or irrelevant. Beautiful haunting piano melodies are layered with instruments you don’t expect, like accordion and varied percussion, all with a strong core. Patton’s vocals are extremely clean, as if no time has gone by, but with a perfected tone that maturity lends. Hitting those sky-high notes and balancing them out with some growling spoken verse, the narrative is poetic, intense and thought-provoking. The songs’ styles change up throughout the album, and every pulse point is touched upon. In short, this is a perfect album and to not hear it would be a great disservice to your auditory system. And with no plans after this (so far), this may be the Haley’s Comet of FNM albums. My social media was flooded with posts, pictures and videos of Faith No More’s recent Boston show, and if you were unfortunate enough to miss it, the band is back Aug. 4 at the Blue Hills Bank Pavilion. To hear Sol Invictus and see what else is happening in FNM land, visit fnm.com.
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Let’s school you real quick: Makintosh Braun is the Portland, Ore.-based electro-pop group whose third
album is soft and comfortable, yes, but also exciting
enough to keep you intrigued beyond its initial first-song flirtation (“The City Below”).
The album’s melodies transport listeners to a time when Depeche Mode ruled the airwaves … and while
we’re mostly listening over the interwebs these days, that comparison is not a bad thing. The pairing of Ian
Mackintosh (on vocals, guitars and keys) and Ben Braun
(on vocals, bass and keys) may not be a household name
– yet – but chances are you’ve heard the titular twosome. Their songs have played up the tragedy, trauma, triumph
and heartbreak in shows like Grey’s Anatomy and Gossip Girl since the duo first met in 2007.
The 11 tracks on Arcadia will not disappoint fans or
neophytes who seek some throwback in their electro-pop but also seek some gravitas in their lyrics: What do dreams mean? Ever been caught up in a moment and wondered
if it was a mistake? Coming to the realization that you’re
getting older … and you definitely don’t want to? Arcadia
is just poppy enough to dance to – or at least vibe with – and many of the tracks are flirty enough to keep all that heady gravitas in check.
Connect with Mackintosh Braun at mackintoshbraun.com or on Twitter @MackintoshBraun.
If We Go At All / Authentic Mexican Silence By Jason Savio If We Go At All’s debut EP, Authentic Mexican Silence, is a collection of indie rock songs that covers both ends of the spectrum. From mysterious and melancholy to straightforward and upbeat, the Milford-based group takes chances on its first outing – and it pays off with gleams of shimmering light. The title of the EP may be misleading, as there is no hint of Mexican music or any related genre. But If We Go At All shows that it is indeed a group of well-rounded musicians, ones that most noticeably know how to incorporate catchy hooks without making the entire song dependent on them. “Missed Connections,” the EP’s most direct number, is jangly and loose, with an upbeat swing that harkens back to the jangle pop of the ’90s. But this isn’t a nostalgia act, as “Anteroom” has a more spacious and resonating tone akin to modern alternative rock. The most ambitious is “Shallows,” an almost 7-minute venture that has everything, including elements of shoegaze, guitar solos and ambient psychedelic experimentation, all while successfully keeping a light trace of a hook to keep you listening. The uncharacteristic breakneck pacing on the closing “As A Giant,” however, sounds out of place with the rest of the songs and doesn’t leave the best last impression. If We Go At All shows both its strengths and a few minor glitches on Authentic Mexican Silence, but that’s to be expected on a debut EP, on which chances are taken that may not always pay off. That fearlessness is a positive trait, one that will hopefully carry over to future recordings. Check out If We Go at all on Facebook and Reverb Nation.
BIG BIRTHDAY PARTY Celebrate America’s birthday with the City of Worcester’s annual Independence Day Celebration, presented by the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce. Fireworks will light up the sky during this continuing tradition of patriotic fun. Free, 6-10 p.m. Thursday, July 2, at Cristoforo Columbus Park on Shrewsbury Street.
AN AMERICAN CELEBRATION Mark your independence by coming to the first Great American Celebration. Head to the Spencer Fairgrounds for fireworks, music, drinks and a carnival in the greatest Independence Day party since 1776. July 3-5 at Spencer Fairgrounds, 48 Smithville Road. Tickets start at $20, ticketriver.com/event/15677.
walk and rock Walk and Rock your way down Shrewsbury Street on choice Thursdays in July. Enjoy a variety of music provided by local bands and grab a bite to eat at your favorite Shrewsbury Street restaurant. Free, shrewsburystreet.org/walkrock.htm.
JULY Bikes and cars If you can’t imagine your life without wheels, then fire up the engine and head to Bike Night at Perfect Game on Wednesday evenings. Enjoy the free buffet and a dizzying array of bikes. Prefer your fun on four wheels? Check out Compass Tavern’s Sh’Booms Classic Car Show on Thursdays. There’s entertainment, raffles and prizes, and 50 percent of the proceeds go to local charities. Bike Night is Wednesdays at 6 p.m. (buffet starts at 7 p.m.) at Perfect Game, 64 Water St., Worcester. Sh’ Booms Classic Car Show is Thursdays at 5 p.m. at The Compass Tavern, 90 Harding St., Worcester.
just relax Join the Green Rovers Band for a musicfilled night of original songs and traditional Irish tunes, all set against the backdrop of Coggshall Park in Fitchburg for the 23rd anniversary of the summer concert series. Bring family and friends and enjoy a melodious evening.
The Central Scene
Free, 2-4 p.m. Sunday, July 12.
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I n s i d e t h e m ay h e m By Jennifer Russo It goes without saying that the Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Fest (or REDMF) has made its mark as one of the most well-known and well-attended rock music tours in the United States and Canada. Every year, months before their state’s show date, people start the gossip train on who is going to perform and headline. Every year, thousands upon thousands attend the event here at the Xfinity Center in Mansfield, undeterred by the sweltering summer heat, to see some of the best up and coming music and the veterans who paved the way. Though traditionally held on a Wednesday in Massachusetts, this year’s show will be Saturday, July 25, making it even more tempting. You don’t have to miss work, and you can actually sleep in the next day after a full day of beer and moshing. Now that is a summer music festival. And who is headlining this year? Easily the band with the most chanted and screamed name in rock history … the one and only Slayer. “Our ultimate goal is to deliver something that the heavy music fan is going to want to go to year after year,” said John Reese, Mayhem Festival co-founder. “We want to put the best talent we can on it at a fair price so that people are compelled to go. Having Slayer and King Diamond on the bill together is something that hasn’t been done before, and we feel like having two legendary heavy music institutions on the bill was important.” In addition to having two huge veteran bands closing out the show, Reese believes in the value of adding the most popular current bands to the bill and giving newer bands a chance to shine. “We start at the top and find the headliner, and from there, we try to build a show which appeals to 17-year-olds and to 60-year-olds. This To see all the bands playing the Mayhem Festival this year, we have Thy Art is Murder, which is one of the hottest heavy bands year, find out more about the Metal of Honor charity out there, as well as returning favorites Whitechapel and The Devil and purchase a ticket to this year’s epic event, visit rockstarmayhemfest.com. Wears Prada. The way the record industry is now, it’s really hard to get rock bands from zero to sixth gear. So it’s important for us to create the new headliners for our future festivals,” Reese said. “This year, the festival will have two stages and will run a little differently than in years past. The second stage will be running in between the set changes for the main stage. We are going for a more focused show this year with less running around between many stages.” Metal of Honor, a military support initiative that Reese’s wife helps to manage, will have a booth again at the festival. Reese said his father was in the service and honoring the military is incredibly important to him. Buying a ticket helps the charity, and Reese encourages fans to check out the organizations that the group works with and supports.
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dragonball Xenoverse delivers a blast of new energy
By Jason Savio Dragonball fans have a lot to be happy about these days. Not only is there a new animated film on its way to North America later this summer, but original series creator Akira Toriyama has also announced his involvement in a new Dragonball TV series – the first in almost two decades. But what has helped keep the franchise fresh in the minds of fans during its downtime? The never-ending release of Dragonball video games, of course. The newest addition to the Dragonball video game series is Dragonball XenoVerse. Being the 15th Dragonball game to date, it would be a safe bet to assume that XenoVerse would be repetitious and predictable. XenoVerse, at least, makes a strong attempt to switch up the storyline. Instead of treading familiar ground and going through the same gauntlet of fights from the different TV shows, the player is introduced to a new, original story. In this new spin, time and space in the Dragonball universe are collapsing, threatening to throw the universe’s history off course and create a false timeline. Trunks, now a Time Patrol member who is in charge of defending the flow of time, is in need of help. That’s where you come in as a unique create-a-player fighter. The create-a-player XenoVerse is one of the most detailed, giving the option of picking your race – such as Saiyan, Namekian, Frieza, Majin or plain, old Earthling. Each race has its own strengths and skills, as well as its weak points. The fighting and presentation of XenoVerse is basically the same as most previous releases. It follows the same setup as recent Dragonball games, with the action taking place in a 3D environment, where all buildings and landscapes can be destroyed and players are free to fly or run around in the midst of battle. The gameplay has minor improvements with easier-to-use controls than last year’s Battle of Z. Special maneuvers, for example, are executed using the trigger buttons and are divided up into Super Attacks and Ultimate Attacks, from which popular Dragonball moves like the Kamehameha Blast can be utilized. All of this is useful information when in battle, but first, you must wander aimlessly at the beginning of the game to find your way to an actual fight, which is a glaring annoyance for the eager fight fan. XenoVerse is a mixed bag for casual fans of fight games. It incorporates an open-world element that some may find tedious and mundane – a roadblock to the bombastic action that most will want to get right to. Die-hard Dragonball fans, however, will be pleased with the stretch XenoVerse attempts with its storytelling and effort to push the franchise in a fresh direction. For more, visit dragonballxenoverse.com/en.
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Club, Pub + GRUB Listings
Entertainment at clubs, bars, pubs & other select venues American Graffiti 113 Summer St., Lunenburg B-Man’s 140 Tavern 348 Redemption Rock Trail, Sterling Backstreets Pub 14 Mill St., Fitchburg The Banner Bar & Grille 112 Green St., Worc. Barber’s Crossing Road House 861 Main St., Leicester Barbers Crossing (North) 175 Leominster Road, Sterling Beatnik’s 433 Park Ave., Worc. Tuesdays: Tuesday Night at the Movies starting July 14 Wednesdays: Ladies Night starting July 15 July 3: The Fellowship of the King – A Tribute to Elvis July 10: Joel Sieglemen, Sweetfire, Jen-O & Mike Rush July 11: Rusty Mikes July 12: The Automatics July 16: Jittery Jack Rockabilly July 17: Fossil Funk & Guests July 18: Elemental July 19: Jeff Mac & The Oochie Wally Wallies July 23: Pop Goes Acoustic with Bobby Cook and Chrissie July 24: Worcester Jazz Collective July 25: Davy Chase July 26 Roger Convery July 31: The Sonomatics Beemer’s Pub 114 River St., Fitchburg Billy’s Pub 81 Clinton St., Shrewsbury Birkbeck’s Waterfront Grille 242 Mill St., Worc. Black Sheep Tavern 261 Leominster Road, Sterling Blackstone Tap 81 Water St., Worc. Blue Plate Lounge 661 Main St., Holden Blueprint New American Bar & Grill 9 Village Square, Westminster July 3: Scott Babineau July 9: Sam Nesbitt July 10: Girls on Girls July 11: Ellsworth Trio July 16: Scott Babineau
July 17: Kevin Shields July 18: Ken Macy July 23: Dan Cormier July 24: Brian Chaffee July 25: Go Gadget Go July 30: Joe Reidy July 31: Kelly Wheeler & Tribe Boulder Cafe 880 Main St., Fitchburg Breakaway Billiards 104 Sterling St., Clinton Brew City 104 Shrewsbury St., Worc. Bull Run Restaurant 215 Great Road, Shirley Cafe Destare 320 Main St., Fitchburg Canal Restaurant & Bar 65 Water St., Worc. Thursdays: Team Trivia Thursdays Saturdays: Stage Time Comedy Show Center Bar & Grill 102 Green St., Worc. Centerfolds 2000 139 Southbridge St., N. Oxford Chooch’s Food & Spirits 31 E. Brookfield Road, N. Brookfield Fridays: Karaoke Chopstick’s Restaurant & Lounge 21 Commercial Road, Leominster
July 28: Nick Christy July 30: Dezi Garcia
Kelley Square Yacht Club 1 Millbury St., Worc.
Cosmopolitan Club 96 Hamilton St., Worc.
Indian Ranch 200 Gore Road, Webster July 11: Montgomery Gentry July 12: Easton Corbin July 18: Chris Young July 26: Three Dog Night
Dance Ranch & Saloon 70 James St., Worc. Days End Tavern 287 Main St., Oxford Devens Grill 4 Ryans Way, Devens Electric Haze 26 Millbury St, Worc. Sundays: Funky Jazz Jam Sundays Mondays: Open Mic/Open Decks Tuesdays: Hip Hop Tuesdays Fiddlers’ Green Pub & Restaurant 19 Temple St., Worc. Saturdays: A Murphs Comedy Joint Firefly’s / Dante’s 350 E. Main St., Marlborough Flip Flops 680 Main St., Holden Flying Rhino Cafe 278 Shrewsbury St., Worc. Funky Murphy’s Bar & Grill 305 Shrewsbury St., Worc. Gardner Ale House 74 Parker St., Gardner July 9: Jubilee Gardens
Cicero’s Cafe 17 Suffolk St., Worc.
The GazBar Sports Grill 1045 Central St., Leominster July 10: Hitchcock Blondes July 11: Scott Babineau July 18: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell
Classic’s Pub 285 Central St., Leominster
Gilrein’s 802 Main St., Worc.
Club KasBar 234 Southwest Cutoff, Worc.
Greendale’s Pub 404 W. Boylston St., Worc. Sundays: Jim’s Sunday Blues Jam Tuesdays: Open Mic Night with Bill McCarthy July 3: Ed & Da Ve July 10: Side Effect (Pink Floyd tribute) July 11: Simple Creature July 17: Prizm July 18: Silverbacks July 25: Benefit for Breast Cancer
Christopher’s Pub 7 Pleasant St., Leominster
The Columbia Tavern 28 Manning Ave., Leominster Compass Tavern 90 Harding St., Worc. Wednesdays: Karaoke Fridays, Saturdays: DJs July 7: Pete Towler July 9: Hit the Bus July 14: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell July 16: Vin & Sean July 21: Chad Clements July 23: Dave O’Brien
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Halligan’s Sports Bar and More 889 Southbridge St., Auburn Hotel Vernon - The Ship Room/
Ixtapa Cantina 308 Massachusetts Ave., Lunenburg JC Fenwick’s 37 Mechanic St., Leominster Jillian’s - Worcester 315 Grove St., Worc. July 10: Ton of Blues July 11: UFC 189 – Aldo vs. Macgregor July 17: DJs and Karaoke July 18: The Plagiarists July 24: Tequila Bonfire July 25: Flock of Assholes July 31: Metro JJ’s Sports Bar and Grill 380 Southwest Cutoff, Northborough July 3: Girls on Girls July 10: Brit Wits July 11: Live Bullet July 17: How Bizarre! July 24: TD & The Change July 25: 9Teen July 31: Whiskey Church The Lazy Dog 31 Main St., Marlborough Legends Airport Road, Fitchburg Leitrim’s Pub 265 Park Ave., Worc. Loft 266 Bar & Lounge 266 Park Ave., Worc. London Billiards / Club Oasis 70 James St., Worc. Lucky Dog Music Hall 89 Green St., Worc. July :3 Narragansett presents The Flock Of A**Holes and Deep Six fourth annual bash Mahoney’s Pub 413 Park Ave., Worc. Marty’s Pub 225 Cantebury St., Worc. 508-754-0033 martyspub.com MB Lounge 40 Grafton St., Worc.
Continued on Page 21
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Continued from Page 18 McNally’s Grille & Pub
Padavano’s Place
88 Sargent Road, Westminster
358 Shrewsbury St., Worc. Thursdays: Karaoke
Michael’s Cigar Bar
July 3: The Tony Soul Project
1 Exchange Place, Worc.
July 9: Karaoke with DJ Curtis
July 9: Jim Devlin
July 10: The Cosby Sweaters
July 11: Acoustic Nation July 16: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell July 17: Andy Cummings & Swingabilly Lounge July 18: Grade “A” Fancy July 23: Grade A Fancy July 30: Brett Brumby
July 11: The Ray Bryant Band July 12: The Dale LePage Trio July 16: Karaoke with DJ Curtis July 18: The Flat Five July 19: Erin Ollis July 23: Karaoke with DJ Curtis July 24: Night Cap July 25: Cara Brindisi
Ralph’s Chadwick Square Diner
Sean Patrick’s Family Restaurant
Sundays: Sunday Night
494 Electric Ave., Lunenburg
Cinemageddon Mondays: Dirty Gerund Poetry Show Tuesday: C.U. Next Tuesdays with
The Raven
Speakers Night Club
258 Pleasant St., Worc.
19 Weed St., Marlborough
Red Onion - Otter River Hotel 29 Main St., Baldwinville Rivalry’s Sports Bar
Mickey Sheas
Aug 1: The Norm Tonelli Trio
274 Shrewsbury St., Worc.
185 W. Boylston St., W. Boylston July 3: Jay Graham July 4: Andy Cummings July 9: Pete Towler July 10: Mychael David July 17: Katie O’Brien July 18: Bill McCarthy July 23: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell July 24: James Keyes July 25: Ashley Jordan
450 Lancaster St., Leominster The Palladium 261 Main St., Worc.
Spruce Street Tavern
July 10: Nudie Suits
68 Spruce St., Clinton
July 11: Andy Cummings & Swingabilly Lounge
Stagecoach Inn and Tavern
July 12: Clamdigger July 16: Clamdigger “Walk & Rock”
Sunset Tiki Bar
Park Grill and Spirits
July 18: Take Two
79 Powers Road, Westford
257 Park Ave., Worc.
July 19: The Recliners
Wednesdays: Chris Reddy Acoustic
July 10: Chris Reddy
July 23: Take Two “Walk & Rock”
Loops from Hell
July 17: The Drunken Uncles
July 24: Randy & Dave Show
July 31: Bo & Ira Blues
July 25: Murphy’s Law
Partner’s Pub 970 South St., Fitchburg
July 26: Bo & The Highlanders July 30: Mike Lynch Trio
Rocky’s 139 Water St., Worc.
Patsie Dugan’s
Rumors
49 Millbury St., Worc.
371 Park Ave., Worc.
19 Worcester Road, Charlton
Perfect Game Sports Grill and
Rye & Thyme
Lounge
14 Monument Square, Leominster
Moynihan’s Pub
64 Water St., Worc.
July 3: Brian Chaffee
897 Main St., Worc.
Tuesdays: Industry Night
July 9: Chris Reddy
Wednesdays: Bike Night with
July 10: Andy Cummings and
Sheldon’s Harley
Swingabilly Lounge
Thursdays: College Night with DJ
July 11: Brian & Captain
Techthreat
July 12: Zack Slik Brunch
Fridays: DJ One-3
July 16: Jay Graham
Fridays: Thank Friday It’s Dr. Nat July 16: Grade “A” Fancy The Nines Neighborhood Bar 136 Millbury St., Worc. Olde Post Office Pub 1 Ray St., N. Grafton On The Rocks Sports Bar & Grill 96 Lakefront Ave., Lunenburg Oxford Tavern 314 Main St., Oxford
Saturdays: DJ Reckless Pho Dakao 593 Park Ave., Worc. Point Breeze On the Lake 114 Point Breeze Road, Webster Press Box
138 Lake St., Webster
152 Millbury St., Worc.
Saturdays: Live bands
124 Millbury St., Worc.
Tal’s Place
Three G’s Sports Bar
July 31: Andy Cummings
Karaoke
Nick’s Bar and Restaurant
128 Main St., Groton
July 17: Mike Lynch Trio
Mill Street Brews (@ The Artist
Moonstruck Café
Fridays: Karaoke and Dance Party July 4: Fourth of July with DJ Norm
Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays:
18 Mill St., Southbridge
Thursdays: Acoustic Night Saturdays: Live bands
July 31: How Bizarre
Development Complex)
Factory 242 W. Broadway, Gardner
July 31: My Better Half
The Mill 185
South Side Grille & Margarita
DJ Poke Smot and guests
July 26: Ray Bryant
Paisanos Pizza & Spirits
58 Shrewsbury St., Worc.
148 Grove St., Worc.
July 31: Acoustic Nation
324 Electric Ave., Lunenburg
Scorz
5 Summer St., Lunenburg
Trumbull Bar & Grill 117 Main St., Spencer Union Tavern 65 Green St., Worc. Upper Deck Sports Bar & Grille 377 Stetson Road, Barre Victory Bar & Cigar 56 Shrewsbury St., Worc. Vincent’s Bar 49 Suffolk St., Worc. Tuesdays: Jon Bonner and Boogie
July 17: Zack Slik
Chillin’
July 18: Pants on Fire
July 11: Blueswitch
July 23: Danielle Lessard July 24: Sabrina Jones and The Juggernauts
Whistle Stop Bar & Grill 85 Main St., Oxford
July 26: Jon Short Brunch
William’s Restaurant & Tavern
July 31: Sean Fullerton
184 Pearson Blvd., Gardner
536 Lincoln St., Worc.
Sakura Tokyo 640 Park Ave., Worc.
Ye Olde Tavern
Primetime Pub
July 24, 25: Windfall Classic Rock
7 E. Main St., W. Brookfield
JULY 2015 | THEPULSEMAG.COM 21
PULSESHOTS
By Justin Perry
Flying Rhino CAFé TASTE OF SHREWSBURY STREET
FUNKY MURPHY’S TASTE OF SHREWSBURY STREET
PARKWAY diner TASTE OF SHREWSBURY STREET
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MICHAEL’S CIGAR BAR WORCESTER
PARK GRILL & SPIRITS WORCESTER
THE FIX BURGER BAR TASTE OF SHREWSBURY STREET
FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL WORCESTER
JULY 2015 | THEPULSEMAG.COM 23
L I F E S T Y L E
GREAT SUMMER FINDS! The Beach Glass Wine, beer or iced tea ... it doesn’t matter
what kind of beverage you have a taste for, as long as you serve it in The Beach Glass. But don’t be fooled by the name; The Beach Glass is not just for the beach. You can enjoy a drink outdoors in any climate with these durable and reusable glasses that have a unique feature – a pointed stem – which holds it upright in sand, grass and snow. It even floats in the pool! The Beach Glass is BPA free and available in six colors. $10.50, thebeachglass.com.
Dress of the Month Club
Unique Vintage’s Dress of the Month Club will take it easy on your bank account while giving you the latest original designs every month. Unique Vintage will deliver its latest on-trend dresses with an up-to-70-percent discount straight to your mailbox. Even better? You don’t choose the dress; Unique Vintage does based on your purchase history and taste preferences, so it’s a fun ‘treat yourself ’ gift every month! $50 per month, unique-vintage.com.
Barbara Cobb
You know that sunhat you’ve been searching for? The one with a flattering style and gorgeous fabrics that fits you just right? A statement piece that truly fits your personality and head, a Barbara Cobb sun hat is personalized for you from the inside out! All hats are custom-sized and handmade in the USA. You provide your measurements and select the fabrics for both the inside and outside of the hat. With more than 100 high-quality fabrics to mix and match, every hat is one of a kind. Starting at $150, barbaracobb.com.
Cool-It Caddy
When you’re headed to the beach, you need to keep cosmetics, sunscreen and healthy snacks away from the summer heat. CoolIt Caddy offers line of compact carryall cases that feature a built-in coolant system to ensure cosmetics and snacks stay cool on-the-go. The Contempo and Bella CoolIt Caddies cater to the fashion-conscious crowd, while the new Icepops line speaks to kids and kids at heart. $19.95-$29.95, Cool-itCaddy.com.
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The weather is heating up, and there are tons of products that promise to make life in the summer sun easier. Here are a few of our favorites!
Bluetooth Splash Speaker
Here’s a summer speaker ideal for the shower, pool or beach. This Bluetooth 3.0 speaker has a tough rubber exterior and splash-resistant shell that makes it perfect for use in the bathroom or outdoors. The Bluetooth capability also means that your gadget never has to be in harm’s way – the wireless signal works from up to 10 meters away. A rubber lanyard makes it easy to hang in the shower or outdoors, while the Bluetooth capability extends to iPhone, Galaxy, Tablet and more. You can even take calls on the speaker! $70, uncommongoods.com.
Zoinx Sunglasses
No longer will you have to worry about losing your shades while having some fun in the sun. Zoinx Sunglasses feature a patented clip, which allows you to keep better track of your shades. Zoinx was designed to be more than just the shades you’ll never lose; they were specifically created with the active adventurer in mind. Not only can you clip them to your bag or belt, but each pair of sunglasses also comes with a sport strap, zipper pouch, flotation insert and waterproof emergency info card. Zoinx come in multiple styles, finishes and colors. $119, zoinxsunglasses.com.
BugBand Wristbands
Keep pests away this summer with BugBand wristbands. The BugBand wristband is an effective, DEET-free band that works effectively to repel insects naturally for up to 120 hours. The vapors from the plastic BugBand wristband form a protective shield around the immediate area, keeping insects away. It’s packaged in an innovative reusable plastic “pod” to store the wristband (which can be sealed between uses), and bands come in a variety of colors. Starting at $4.95 each, bugband.net.
Gypsy Soule Flip Flops
When it comes to footwear this summer, you could go with a basic style sandal or you can opt for something that speaks to the uniqueness of you with Gypsy Soule. Gypse Soule Flip Flops are handmade with real Swarovski elements, unique details, and you can choose your heel size! Starting at $140, gypsysoule.com.
PRIDE THROUGHOUT THE YEAR By John Trobaugh Back in 1975, when the song “Love Will Keep Us Together” was No. 1 on the pop charts, the very first Gay Pride occurred here in Worcester. It was about five years after Boston had celebrated its first Gay Pride event. Over the years, the locations have changed and the size of the celebration has waxed and waned. But today, LGBTQ people are in a much better place and this year is projected to be the biggest celebration that anyone can recall! For those who are unfamiliar with the letters, L stands for Lesbian. Originally, Gay (the G) was used as a universal term, but it was later acknowledged that it did not quite cover everyone. B is bisexual, and this is the most maligned of the letters, since, when people are finding their letter in life, they often claim this letter as the more acceptable term. In reality, the B stands for someone who is equally attracted to males and females. The Kinsey Scale tells us that we are all on a spectrum of sexuality, and that is now the conventional wisdom. T is transgender. Although it is not a sexual orientation, we have banded together in the common fight for acceptance and equal rights. I hold that a person’s gender is selfdetermined, not assigned at birth or defined by stereotypes. Finally, the Q. Most often it is used for Queer, but it can be used as Questioning (occasionally I have seen Q2). This is becoming the universal term for people who do not feel comfortable with being heterosexual, no matter who they choose as a partner. The word “queer” makes people uncomfortable since it is a “reclaimed” word. Once a vile word, it was reclaimed in the early ’90s and applied to academics and art theory – Queer Theory referred to LGBT studies. This column is called Out and About as a way to focus on LGBTQ topics and events in our community. There are a few regularly occurring LGBTQ events/nights throughout the city for all ages. For the 21-plus crowd, the most consistent event over the past couple of years is the AirSpray Queer Dance Party. For the senior citizens and volunteers, there is the Rainbow Lunch Club. Sponsored by Elder Services of Worcester and the Unitarian Church of Worcester, the lunch club was founded in 2012 by a good friend, Ben Labonte, and others. Then, for the teens, there is Safe Homes, which is a LGBTQ-plus drop-in center for the Worcester region. I am on the advisory board of Safe Homes and volunteer there. I am amazed that every Thursday night, there are 50-75 teens that show up for structured activities and social time. There is also PFLAG, which is a support group for parents and families of LGBTQ people. In addition, there is the Breakfast with Friends Club that meets every other Sunday for brunch. Worcester Pride also tries to have one or more events a month, in addition to the citywide celebration that occurs Sept. 12 this year. It is worth noting that although Pride is celebrated nationally in July, it makes sense for Worcester to celebrate in the fall, so our vast array of colleges and schools are able to participate in a way that they could not if Pride were held over the summer. This past month, there was the Smile performance of the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus to help Pride kick off its 40th year. This year, Pride has partnered with the Canal District to have one of the biggest block parties ever after the festival. We also host the Worcester Pride Pageant, where we have the Miss Gay Worcester Pageant (The Drag Show of the Year), Ms. Worcester Pride and Mr. Worcester Pride. For more information, visit worcesterpride.org.
John Trobaugh is the president of Worcester Pride and a diversity project specialist in the Diversity and Inclusion Office of UMass Medical School.
JULY 2015 | THEPULSEMAG.COM 25
EVERYDAY SCIENCE: LITTLE SUNS By R.J. Linton When I was in grade school, I was taught that there were three phases of matter – solid,
liquid and gas. It turns out that there are substantially more types of matter in the universe. The three states of matter that I learned about in school are the more common phases of matter, those we see daily. Then, there are the more exotic phases of matter, including Bose-Einstein condensates, superfluids and liquid crystals.
However, the phase of matter most commonly observed in the universe is probably plasma. One example of a plasma that you are no doubt familiar with is the material inside neon lights. The material inside the tube is rarefied neon in a plasma state. Where we see plasma
the most, though, is in the fire in our fireplaces, on our stovetops or at lighting events like WaterFire. What makes plasma so special?
The best way to understand states of matter is to think of how energetic the atoms of a material are. Like with most things in life, the more energy something has, the more it tends to move around. If we could look at the atoms in frozen water, we would seem them
sitting very still. As the ice melts and turns to water, the atoms begin to move around a little more, and if we give the water more energy, the atoms start to move away from each
other and turn to an even more energetic form of matter – a gas (or more commonly, steam). If we increased the energy of the water further, we would eventually find ourselves with a plasma form of hydrogen and oxygen. Our sun is primarily made of hydrogen in a plasma state.
The key difference between a plasma and a really hot gas is that in a plasma, a large portion
of the atoms have become ionized. Ionized materials are affected by electric fields. That is, if you put a candle between two metal plates with different electrical charges, the flame
would change shape and conform to the flow of electricity between the plates. Now, this all seems a bit technical and abstract, so what is really the difference between hot things
like a red-hot stove and a flame? After all, we cook with both. So why do so many chefs prefer that open flame? Well, as it turns out, plasma is just hotter.
To become a plasma, a material must have much more energy than one might expect. For example, the flame in your fireplace or in your grill is probably around 3,590 degrees Fahrenheit. Compare this to the melting point of iron, which is about 2,912 degrees
Fahrenheit. That means to get the same temperatures from your electric stove, you would need to heat the metal heating elements until they melted. Not so easy to set a pot on!
These higher temperatures are why we rely on plasmas to heat our food and homes – the material is just hotter.
So when you are sitting around a campfire some night this summer, you can wow your
friends and family by telling them the flame that everyone is watching is a fourth fundamental state of matter – plasma.
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F O O D & D R I N K
NEW CITY MICROcreamery By Kimberly Dunbar Once upon a time, in the magical town of Hudson, there was an ice cream shop that created perfectly creamy ice cream made entirely from local ingredients. That time is now, and that place is New City Microcreamery. “This is not your typical scoop shop; it’s more like a spa for your belly,” said Karim ElGamal, one of the three creative directors and owners of the new store. El-Gamal and his partners – Michael Kasseris and Jason Kleinerman – also own the wildly successful Rail Trail Flatbread Company across the street. “Of all the states, Massachusetts is one of the highest per-capita consumers of ice cream,” Kasseris said. “We wanted to make good quality, local ice cream.”
“What makes it good isn’t the liquid nitrogen,” El-Gamal said. “It’s in the details.” From the ice cream (the vanilla flavoring comes from Madagascar vanilla beans rather than a basic vanilla extract) to the décor (the seating is made of restored bleachers and chairs from local schools), the details are indeed what make New City great.
“We combined the sophistication of a pastry chef and the hard metal guy, and we got some magic.” – Jason Kleinerman
According to El-Gamal, New City, which was Hudson’s nickname in the 1800s, is the only place in the world that uses liquid nitrogen to freeze large batches of ice cream (some shops use this technique for individual orders). He would know, as he and his partners spent two years investigating and traveling the world in search of the best ice cream-making method for their venture.
Visit newcitymicrocreamery.com for more information.
“We went all over the place,” said Kasseris, who visited Ohio, Portland (Maine and Oregon), L.A., San Francisco, Greece, London and Montreal. “We settled on liquid nitrogen because you can manipulate the mixture based on the flavor, unlike the straight blend everyone uses,” he said. “We feel that, for us, it makes the best ice cream.” While most ice creams are frozen between 32 and -25 degrees Fahrenheit, liquid nitrogen flash freezes the ice cream. The liquid nitrogen, which is non-toxic and odor-free, allows for a smoother feel and instantly captures freshness and enhances the flavors. After the scratch ice cream base has steeped in its flavor for 24 hours, New City pours it into the
28 THEPULSEMAG.COM | JULY 2015
mixer (a modified Hobart dough mixer) and slowly introduces the liquid nitrogen, which is colder than -300 degrees Fahrenheit. Customers can watch the entire process, as the microcreamery has an open-kitchen layout.
“We like to have fun in the kitchen,” said Kasseris, of New City’s menu of unique flavors, which changes daily based on seasonal ingredients. However, the owners give most of the credit to Executive Chef Thomas Edward Kepner and Executive Pastry Chef Elaine Stella.
“Tom brings the X Factor; he’s an assassin in the kitchen,” Kleinerman said. “And Elaine spent 20 years as a fine pastry chef. We combined the sophistication of a pastry chef and the hard metal guy, and we got some magic.”
Magic is the taste of Popcorn (kettle corn is steeped in the base, then strained), Hibiscus Cabernet, Bourbon Vanilla or classic Mint Chocolate Chip on your tongue. Customers can also enjoy homemade waffle cones, an array of tasty treats and a gourmet coffee bar. There’s something for everyone, just as El-Gamal, Kasseris and Kleinerman dreamed there would be. New City went through about 400 gallons of milk and cream – locally sourced from Mapleline Farm in Hadley – during opening week in May, and the guys think it might become the average churn-out. However, once word gets out that the perfect ice cream exists in the heart of Hudson, they might need a lot more than that to keep the inevitable droves of ice cream lovers satisfied.
Hot& Now
By Paul Giorgio
Shakers still open. Shaker’s on Hamilton Street in Worcester is still open. We erroneously reported that it had shut down after two people reported it was closed. Shaker’s has always served a great breakfast, so please go there. We are sorry for the error. Traditional Italian. La Cucina Italiana opened its doors at 294 Hamilton St. the first week of June. The owners are Anthony and Carolyn Panarelli. The Panarelli family has been involved in a number of eateries in the Worcester area over the years. The family owned The Italian Kitchen on Shrewsbury Street and Carmela’s in East Brookfield, and a cousin owns the Lakeside in Shrewsbury. Now that is true roots. Hoot hoot hooray. It appears that Hooters, the chain restaurant, will open soon in Shrewsbury. The local dining spot will be located on Route 9 in the old Fairlawn Plaza in the spot that was once home to Chili’s. Seems kind of suburban for a place that may be more at home in a city setting. Watch for an opening this fall. Changes at The Urban. Some changes are happening at Shrewsbury Street’s
Urban Kitchen. There is a new sign, which was installed in the middle of June. Along with the sign came a new chef, Mathew Rock, who formerly worked at Zorba’s on Worcester’s Stafford Street.
Basil N Spice opens. Basil N Spice, a Thai restaurant, opened in mid-June on Shrewsbury Street. The restaurant is tucked away behind Funky Murphy’s. For almost a decade, the spot housed Surya, an Indian restaurant. The place has been completely done over and has a warm inviting feel to it. Bully for them. In more Shrewsbury Street news, we could not miss the outside tables and blue umbrellas at Worcester’s Boulevard Diner. Great idea, and our chapeaus go off to Jimmy George and staff.
What’s Brewin’? Brew City, also on Worcester’s Shrewsbury Street, rolled out
its new summer menu the first week of June. The restaurant is using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Among the new offerings are a Grilled Chicken & Avocado sandwich, a Strawberry Salad and a Salmon with Cucumber Dill Sauce. The full menu can be seen at brew-city.com.
Music & Food. The annual Walk & Rock on Shrewsbury Street will take place Thursdays, July 16, 23 and 30. Free live music will be featured at select Shrewsbury Street restaurants. Check with shrewsburystreetwalkandrock.com.
Living in a castle. The Castle Restaurant on Route 9 in Leicester has announced its summer jazz series. There will be live jazz on the patio on Sundays in July and August. The music is from 3-7 p.m. Call (508) 892-9090 for details. Take the Back Roads for fun. Back Roads Inns of Central Massachusetts will hold a wine tasting on Sunday, July 12. For $20 in advance and $25 the day of the event, you can taste local wines at the Jenkins Inn in Barre and the Chamber Hill Inn & Restaurant and Winterwood, both in Petersham. You can call the individual inns for details. JULY 2015 | THEPULSEMAG.COM 29
GazBar proves sports bar fare can bE distinctive dining By Bernie Whitmore Road trip to Leominster! My anticipation wasn’t exactly breathless, but dinner at GazBar was something I felt myself looking forward to as the workday afternoon wore on. After all, summer’s here and the time is right for busting out of town and onto the open highway; even if it’s just a 10-mile stretch of 190.
mandatory for rinsing off grit once we’d pulled the meat out of the shells. These steamers were tender, mild and slightly sweet in flavor – and a perfect portion for sharing. As if to echo my own thoughts, my friend declared, “It’s nice to have the first steamed clams of the season. It’s a harbinger of summer!” I continued that seasonal theme with my Lobster Roll entrée, another of GazBar’s daily specials. Everyone seems to have their favorite place for lobster rolls – just bring up the subject, and people insist upon their opinions and a lively debate often ensues. But I suspect any of these experts would be delighted with the GazBar’s; it was elegantly presented in a buttery, toasted wiener bun and heaped deep and high with large chunks of claw and knuckle meat – much sweeter and more tender than meat from the lobster’s tail, right? – mixed with minimal mayonnaise and little bits of crunchy celery. Rather than fries, I ordered my meal with a bowl of creamy coleslaw.
Positioned forward-center in a shopping plaza parking lot, the GazBar’s easy to get to and was packed on the Wednesday evening I joined my friend for dinner. We were seated at one of the high tables, with several TVs and a Keno game in sight. The DJ played one of the more diverse sets of songs I’ve heard in a long time and, later in the evening, conducted a team trivia game. At an adjacent table, a group of women meeting after work were enjoying Lemon Drops from the martini bar. With a quick study of the chalkboard’s draft specials, I selected a glass of Goose Island IPA. Goose Island is a Chicago brewery that I’ve found to be consistently first-rate in quality. The IPA isn’t over-hopped; its floral and resin notes are great with food courses. Whilst nibbling from a bowl of popcorn, my companion and I journeyed through the GazBar’s standard menu and a sheet of specials. Without over-reaching, the kitchen offers a respectable breadth of appetizers, burgers, more than a dozen sandwiches (I was sorely tempted by the Pulled-Porker) and several beef and seafood entrees. But it was the daily specials that attracted me, and we started with one of its appetizers, a bowl of Steamed Clams. For what would summer be without steamers and beer? These were ideally sized, with clean, white shells; each 2 to 3 inches in length. A bowl of steaming broth was
The only improvement I might suggest? Perhaps the sound of pounding surf and a seagull squawking in the background. We made our outing a seafood trifecta, with my friend’s entrée selection: classic Broiled Haddock. This is my personal favorite treatment for fish – lightly sprinkled with golden breadcrumbs in a lemony white wine butter sauce. Between bites, he declared it to be “Simple. Flaky white meat. Tender and fresh.” He ordered his fish with a baked potato, which, based upon its generous size, gave the meal some appetite-satisfying heft. Every time I have a good meal at a sports bar, I regard it as some sort of revelation. As much as I’d anticipated it, dinner at the GazBar was an energizing surprise. For sheer fun, friendly service and quality fare, the GazBar writes its own playbook on hospitality that provides plenty of room for everyone – workmates, families with kids, seniors, a serious bar crowd and everyone in between.
The GazBar Sports Grill | 1045 Central St., Leominster | thegazbar.com | (978) 534-6600 30 THEPULSEMAG.COM | JULY 2015
N OR TH
NOR TH COUNTY • DINING • ENTER TAINMENT • NIGHTLIFE • SHOPPING
C OU N TY • DINING • ENTER TAINMENT • NI GHTL IFE • SHOPPI NG
NOR TH COUNTY • DINING • ENTER TAINMENT • NIGHTLIFE • SHOPPING
a r t & c u lt u r e
the city that chairs built By Kimberly Dunbar Every city has a story, and in Gardner, that story is the legacy of Nichols & Stone, one of the oldest wood furniture factories in the United States until it shut down in 2008 after 151 years as a producer of heirloom-quality furniture. It was an end of an era in Gardner when Nichols & Stone closed; workers who had been there for decades lost their jobs and Gardner lost its industry. The city was also in danger of losing a part of its history. Then, along came Tracie Pouliot. “I knew there was a story that would disappear if no one told it,” said Pouliot, a Gardner native who worked at Nichols & Stone as a seasonal employee for six years when she was a teenager. Neither she nor her father, a 25-year factory employee, was on staff at the time it closed. “It was the last big factory in the area to shut down, and there was a lot of history, a lot of important things happened during that time. I thought about what I could do to capture the value of what happened there, so it could be shared and honored.” Pouliot, who studied community art at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, N.Y., has a unique plan to make that story heard: She is opening the Chair City Community Art Center and launching a participatory art and history project about the experience of local people who worked in Gardner furniture plants. The project will produce a series of hand-crafted books that will be letterpress printed in the center – at 306 Central St. in downtown Gardner. “I have always loved the place where art and people come together,” said Pouliot, who imagines the space as one where history and craftsmanship collide. “I hope this place can fill the void that was left when the factories closed – not for a job, but to fill the need to make something with your hands and work collaboratively.” The Chair City Community Art Center is open to the public and will rely on volunteers to help print and assemble the books. “We will print and bind everything here, as well as have a space where people can sit and read the books,” she said.
One may wonder why Pouliot spent $8,000 on a rare printing press and is investing the time in moveable lead type, in which each letter must be manually placed on the press before it is printed, a meticulous and time-consuming process. “You never spend that much time with people’s words when you are typing at a computer,” she said. “It forces you to really think about what someone is saying. It’s a way to get deeper into the stories.” Pouliot added that she has always loved the printmaking aspect of art, a style in which craftsmanship matters. “There is an heirloom quality to it,” she said. “In a way, this process is in the spirit of Nichols & Stone. It’s a different quality of work, knowing you made this book by hand.” Between 2008 and 2009, Pouliot interviewed 13 former Nichols & Stone employees about their experiences working in the factory. At the time, she was living in North Carolina and had no plans or financial means to print the stories. Once she found herself in a situation where she could afford to pursue her dream of creating a community art center, she took action. Fast forward to today: Pouliot has one book printed, the story of Dale Lucier, a Winchendon native who worked at Nichols & Stone for 33 years before it closed. “She crammed my whole story into that little book and did a really good job of it,” said Lucier, who began working at Nichols & Stone in 1975 at 19. Luicer, now 59, has fond memories of her time and the friends she made at Nichols & Stone. “I think the people that worked there have a story to tell. And I believe people would be interested to hear about what it was like in the factory from a worker’s point of view.”
Now that money has been raised and the printing press has been purchased and delivered (thanks to a crowdfunding campaign that raised nearly $8,500), Pouliot is looking forward to officially opening the center. “I want to create a little unit of factory work again,” she said, adding that one person can lay type, while others For more information, visit crank the press or bind a freshly printed book. “It’s neat to imagine.” traciepouliot.com.
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Pouliot said that whether or not one worked in a factory, the center is a place for all to participate. “The center will be a gathering space where people can reflect on Chair City’s past and imagine its future.”
JULY 2015 | THEPULSEMAG.COM 33
style&beauty
SUMMER HAIR: 3 STYLES IN 3 MINUTES
It’s summer. Forget about wasting time with intricate hairstyles. Instead, Rodney Cutler offers up three styles that can be done in just 3 minutes. Ready … Set … Go!
Lived-in Pony Apply texture spray or dry shampoo throughout the roots of the hair for volume. Turn on curling iron. Pull hair loosely back into a pony at the crown of your head, allowing natural wisps to fall around your face. Tie with elastic. Strategically place two bobby pins at the bottom of the ponytail, where the hair tie sits, pointing up towards the top of your head. This boosts the base and creates more glamorous feel. Pull a 1-inch strand from the bottom of the ponytail and wrap it around a hair tie and secure with another pin. Using a large barrel curling iron, curl the top section of the ponytail and longest strands of the ponytail (usually the bottom section). Spray with hair spray and sea salt spray.
Boho Braid Part your hair as it naturally separates. Fold a scarf and wrap around the crown of your head for a cool, bohemian feel. For beginners, knot the scarf at the base of your head (underneath where your braid will start); for more experienced braiders, cross the scarf and add two of the three strands of your braid. You can trade in the scarf for ribbons if you want. Braid hair to the bottom. Secure at bottom with the remainder of the scarf. Spray with sea salt to give dimension, texture and hold.
Loose Texture With hair dry to mostly dry, separate into two to four sections, depending on thickness. Set texture by spraying with sea salt spray. Twist each section from top to bottom, securing it with a bobby pin and let it sit. Heat shock with a diffuser quickly to set hair. Untwist and tousle lightly for a lived-in, beachy look.
Rodney Cutler is a Redken brand ambassador and owner of Cutler Salons in New York City and Miami. Follow him on Twitter (@RodneyCutlerNYC) or visit cutlersalon. com.
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CUT IT OUT SWIMSUIT By Jamie Burke I know what you are thinking: I would never be caught dead wearing such a skimpy swimsuit. This quick and simple craft will change your mind about that. Give it a try. First of all, if you have a sick body like Caitlyn, the swimsuit model, you absolutely should show it off. You should actually be a walking public service announcement for amazing bods. If you are like me, you probably have areas that you want to hide. Like trouble areas that should literally jump off your body, join the fatness protection program and go into hiding until death. Then, you may have some areas that you love or want to enhance, just to put the focus on good, so that the rest doesn’t look so gross. Yes, gross. This trend or technique is not new. Remember the horrible cut T-shirts with fringe that looked ridiculous? If you by chance still have the shirt and want to upscale it even more, give it a try. It has one simple direction. Take it out of your skeezy T-shirt drawer and light it on fire. Voila. You are too old to wear that shirt, so move on. Instead, take yourself and your Starbucks to Target or Walmart. Go to the cheapest rack of plain-Jane swimsuits and grab one. If you cannot find a suit, go get a leotard. Sometimes, leotards have better control because they are made for dance moves. The suit can have a liner or not; it’s up to you. Or if you don’t want to spend the $7 on a new suit, use an old lame one. If you’ve got 30 minutes, you can have a great swimsuit.
Supplies • • • • •
Lame swimsuit or leotard Sharp scissors Chalk Needle and thread (or thin ribbon) to match suit Crown
Directions 1. Put the suit on and stand in front of a mirror. Map out marks with chalk to hide or enhance. For example, if you have a great pair of ladies, then go chalk-happy in that area. Great waist, consider making a Monokini. Anything goes! 2. Take sharp scissors and start your cut. Decide if you want to keep your liner to hide skin imperfections or cut it out completely. Go crazy. Let your kindergarten self cut outside the lines. Cut lines of all sizes. 3. Once you have your cut holes, pull your cuts into loops. Keep looping up, down, over or under until you get your desired pattern. Secure at the ends with needle and thread or just tie a knot with ribbon. Keep cutting and looping until you turn your suit into a couture Victoria’s Secret runway swimsuit masterpiece. Watch out: Most of your friends will probably start to call you Gisele. 4. Put on crown, then write me a love letter. Special thanks to fitness and swimsuit model Caitlyn Chamberlain.
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