NOVEMBER 2018 IN THIS ISSUE: COVER STORY
28 The Luxe List: 6 slick tech solutions
8 The Fashion Issue
29 FindingBalance: Are you flexible?
ENTERTAINMENT 12 Heavy Fest blends genres for one, big festival 13 GameOn: Rapid fire and raucous fairies in Azure Reflections
FOOD + DRINK 30 Dining Review: Maddi’s brings imaginative cuisine to the Canal 31 Hot&Now
14 Five Cents Extra is coming home
32 New Around the Woo: North Main Provisions
15 PulseBooks: Give thanks for those new books
33 PulseBrew: Sam Adams brings us Octoberfest
16 The Central Scene
ARTS + CULTURE
18 Club Listings
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22 Pulse Shots
34 Elf the Musical brings the tradition of the holidays to Worcester
LIFESTYLE
STYLE + BEAUTY
26 For the holidays, check your local shops
36 Fall brings the beauty of pumpkins
27 Out+About: I’m voting Yes on 3
37 StyleSavvy: How to style a lob
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READ PULSE ONLINE: THEPULSEMAG.COM • FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: TWITTER @WORCESTERPULSE • INSTAGRAM @PULSEMAG_WORC • FACEBOOK.COM/THEPULSEMAGAZINE PULSE Magazine is produced 12 times a year by Pagio Inc., 88 Winter St., Worcester, MA 01604. (508) 756-5006. Copyright 2015 All rights reserved. Pagio, Inc. does not hold itself responsible for statements made by any contributor. Statements or opinions expressed in Pulse reflect the views of the author(s) and not the official policy of the Pagio, Inc., unless so stated. Although all advertising material is expected to conform to ethical standards, acceptance does not imply endorsement by Pagio, Inc. unless so stated. Material printed in Pulse is covered by copyright. No copyright is claimed to any work of the U.S. government. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without written permission. For information on permissions, reprints and other services, contact Pagio, Inc. Also by Pagio Inc.: Worcester Medicine, Vitality Magazine, Thepulsemag.com, Thevitalitymag.com, & TasteWorcester.com
Paul Giorgio, Publisher pgiorgio@pagioinc.com Donna Roberson, Editor droberson@pagioinc.com Vanessa Herbold, Art Director vherbold@pagioinc.com Berkeley Wlodarczak, Marketing & Event Manager berkeley@pagioinc.com David Simone, Vice President, Sales dsimone@pagioinc.com
Chris Reddy, Account Executive creddy@pagioinc.com Kim Dunbar, Sports Editor Jennifer Russo, Lifestyle Editor Kimberly Dunbar, Jennifer Russo, Jason Savio, Bernie Whitmore, Michael Wood, Paul Giorgio, Audra Brackett, Merilee Kern, John Trobaugh, Sloane Perron, Jamie Burke, Rachel Shuster, Writers
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COVER ST ORY
CONSIGNMENT GOES UPSCALE
You recycle your trash, but do you recycle your clothes? Whether you’re looking to give or get, Central Massachusetts’s consignment stores offer great options for the savvy shopper. Consignment isn’t just for old couches and used coffee tables anymore. Today’s consignment shops offer a prime pick of top brands, and you can create a bevvy of looks that showcases your personality. Whatever your style, check out the consignment shops of Central Massachusetts for upscale and environmentally conscious fashion!
Photography by George Annan @koolaidgeorge Clothes and location provided by Grime @grimeclothing
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HANG 10 Model: Ade (Left) Top: $44 (Guy Romo) Sunglasses: $11.99 (Brand Unknown) Total: $55.99
GRADE A Model: Joe (Below) Jacket: $56 (Bugle Boy Original) Total: $56
14 PLACES TO START YOUR SHOPPING: Alexis Grace Consignment 7 Harrison St., Worcester 508-799-4700 facebook.com/alexisgraceconsignment The Community Thrift Store 930 Main St., Worcester 508-421-3789 clarkthriftstore.webs.com Goodwill 25 Park Ave., Worcester 508-752-4042 goodwillmass.org Grime 356 Shrewsbury St., Worcester 508-755-5055 grimeworcester.com
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50’S FLAIR Model: Joe (Left) Jacket: $150 (Harley Davidson) Jeans: $22 (Levi’s) Boots: $44 (Tony Lama) Total: $216
FLOWER POWER Model: Demet (Right) Dress: $85 (Gunne Sax) Jacket: $98 (Protech Leather Apparel) Total: $183
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Savers 490 Lincoln St., Worcester 508-853-3653 savers.com Sweet Jane’s Designer Consignment 120 Main St., Worcester 774-243-6000 shopsweetjanes.com Pass It On 244 W. Boylston St., West Boylston 508-835-5858 passitonconsignments.com Cutie Patutie’s 1021 Central St., Leominster 978-534-6604 ecistores.com Upscale Consign Mint 875 Merriam Ave., Leominster 978-357-8374 upscaleconsignmintleominster.com
READY FOR ANYTHING Model: Kaylee Top: $12 (It’s Our Time) Set (Jacket and Skirt): $38 (Incognito) Shoes: $26 (Brand Unknown) Total: $76 thepulsemag.com
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ROCKIN’ IT Model: Demet Top: $12 (Bridge Nine) Skirt: $34 (Brand unknown) Sunglasses: $11.99 (Brand unknown) Scarf: $8 (Liz Claiborne) Total: $65.99
Classique Consignment 7 W. Main St., Westborough 508-366-8782 facebook.com/Classique-Consignment The Exchange Consignment Boutique 19 Blake St., Northborough 508-466-8504 Sassy Foxx 19 Depot St., Uxbridge 508-278-9700 sassyfoxxconsignment.com Simply Posh 15 North St., Douglas 508-476-7600 simplyposhconsignmentboutique.com Six 20 Six Fashion 626 Main St., Clinton six20six.com 978-368-6262
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HAT’S OFF Model: Ade Beanie: $5.25 (Brand unknown) Beret: $14 (Boy Scouts of America Official Headwear) Jacket: $140 (Harley Davidson) T-shirt: $12.99 (5Pro) Total: $166.99 (beret) or $158.24 (beanie) thepulsemag.com
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ENT ERTA IN M E N T
Heavy Fest will be held at noon Nov. 10 at The Palladium, 261 Main St., Worcester. Tickets are $47. For more information, visit thepalladium.net.
HEAVY FEST Brian Wheeler At the age of 15, Adam Straughn, metal head and selfproclaimed punk, hitched the hour-long ride to Worcester from his home in Rockland because he was too young to drive. He would sneak in the side door of the renowned music venue, The Palladium, with the help of his friends, because he was too young to be admitted. There, at this “mecca of metal,” he would headbang and mosh in a sea of black T-shirts to the heaviest acts being performed at the time. “The Palladium was the only venue booking really heavy acts at the time,” Straughn said. “Think heavy drums, heavy bass and breakdowns.” Straughn recalled the nostalgic grunge of the venue, which reflected the sets it hosted. The original paint from the 1920s peeled from the walls, and the carpets accumulated a patchwork of beer stains. To him, it was “home.” Straughn returns to The Palladium on Nov. 10 for his first produced music festival, Heavy Fest, which will incorporate elements of metal, EDM and rap music. With recent renovations, the walls have been painted and the carpets replaced, and a large, electronic marquee announces upcoming bands, but The Palladium still stays true to its roots as a haven for heavy sets. Straughn noted that The Palladium was instrumental in his youth and the development of his passion for music. Consequentially, he committed to an undergraduate education at Worcester State University in 2009 to be closer to the venue. He would bike three miles from Worcester State to as many shows as he could. At Worcester State, Straughn, a well-rounded student,
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BLENDS GENRES FOR ONE, BIG FESTIVAL
explored his love of music in between tutoring, football and photography. On the weekends, he organized music events on Water Street at what used to be Club Industry. He promoted these events on campus with flyers and by word of mouth.
“Years ago, dubstep and metal wouldn’t be considered a feasible combination,” Straughn said.
In 2013, Straughn graduated with a dual degree in English and communications. Rather than pursuing conventional channels, such as graduate education or job applications, he went on the road with his camera. He traveled the United States documenting music festivals – without the cushion of a steady income or comfort of a place he could call home. At some points, he slept in a tent, he said.
But, in collaboration with NV Productions, he has made this combination happen on a grand scale. In addition to featuring dubstep and metal, Heavy Fest will feature rap music, what he considers one of the most “coveted” genres of the time. Asking Alexandria, Chris Webby, Death Ray Vision, Figure Presents Terrrorvision, I See Stars, Obey The Brave, Sayer, Squnto, Sullivan King, The Underachievers, Thy Will Be Done, Concrete Dream, Kyle Goldstein, Uncle Bob and Weapon E.S.P. are all slated to perform.
However, his years of hard work have finally come to fruition. After touring with Twiddle, a prevalent jam band in the rock music community, he returns to Worcester as manager of Above the Sky Productions. Through his travels and constant networking, he has built his own brand through which he sells festival merchandise and promotes events.
“I am trying to push a revolution,” Straughn said. He believes genres should seek to be collaborative rather than exclusive, and his event marks a major transition in this process. With this type of collaboration of genres, anyone who enjoys music may be able to enjoy the festival culture, noting its therapeutic nature. A festival, he believes, is like “church.”
“It really has come full circle for me – this is a dream five years in the making,” Straughn said.
“You leave feeling better than you did coming in,” he said.
Since Straughn has become involved in the music scene, the popularity of metal has waned while EDM has exploded, with countless festivals hosted across the country. However, he still believes metal can stay alive – if it is willing to adapt.
Some would write off the genres of metal, EDM and rap as worthless noise. Straughn would disagree. He believes that any music can be interpreted as art through different approaches.
“If metal wants to survive, it needs to change with the times,” Straughn said. “The crowds are different – but there are crossover fans out there.”
“Festival culture is not primarily about the music, but the people and their interactions with each other. The music and the DJ is secondary,” he said.
This is evident in the popularity of Sullivan King, one of the names headlining the Heavy Fest event, a band which has amassed 64,000 followers on Soundcloud.
“People who say they hate festival music probably have never been to a festival,” Straughn said. “I would urge anyone and everyone to go see a show!”
GAMEON:
Rapid fire and raucous fairies in Azure Reflections Jason Savio How many different magic bullets can you dodge at once? That’s the question – and the challenge – of the side-scrolling bombast that is Azure Reflections. A bullet hell game in every sense of the term, Azure Reflections fills up the screen with an intimidating amount of enemy fire that is both colorful and near impossible to maneuver around. (For those unfamiliar, bullet hell games are a sub-genre of shooters that is based primarily on dodging a ridiculous number of objects coming your way, oftentimes from all different directions.) Azure Reflections is an anime-style cartoon that is a continuation of the Touhou Project games to come out of Japan. The characters speak in Japanese, so if reading subtitles isn’t your thing, you might want to pass on this. Set in a mystical world separated from our own, you start by playing as Reimu Hakurei, a young girl who flies around and is trying to get to the bottom something called the “Red Mist Incident,” which has the fairies up in arms. There are a lot of fairies in this game, from the small Tinker Bell type to the fullgrown bosses. But don’t let their innocent looks fool you; these girls are here to fight. In order to put it to these unassuming badasses, you’ll equip yourself with a series of spirit cards that give you magic powers. While it can be easy to get in the habit of simply shooting off a firestorm of your own magic bullets at your enemies (you can choose if you want a straight shot, wide or homing), the name of the game is figuring out how to best use all the tools at your disposal. That means setting up a force field around yourself at critical moments to absorb enemy fire, so you can turn it back on them when you fire up a Danmaku Rush – basically just flying straight in to them really hard until they fall back. When the boss is down and vulnerable, that’s a good time to try your luck at one of the spirit cards that can do heavier damage. There is also a lot of humor in Azure Reflections, some unintentional and some flat-out awkward, possibly because of clashing styles of humor between different cultures. One of the bosses is a very non-threatening librarian who calls you out to fight in a very librarian tone of voice. You expect her to transform into some sort of demon, seeing as how she’s carrying a book with the sign of Satan on it, but she doesn’t. After the fight, a strange conversation begins between her and your Reimu Hakurei about the former’s dry skin issues. It’s weird, to say the least, partly because one gets the feeling it’s not meant to be funny. But if there was ever a common bond that Japanese and American gamers can share, it’s shooting colorful things at a rapid pace in a made-up world, and Azure Reflections has that down to a science. For more information, visit nintendo.com/games/detail/azure-reflections-switch.
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FIVE CENTS EXTRA IS COMING HOME Kaycee Roy There’s nothing like coming home for the holidays. Getting to reconnect with loved ones and reminiscing about the memories you made growing up are a staple of the season. But why not relive some of those memories instead of just talking about them? This year, Five Cents Extra will return to its hometown, Fitchburg, to celebrate its 45th anniversary with New Pond Fondle. Five Cents Extra began an annual show the night before Thanksgiving at The Country Lodge, an old barn converted into a honky tonk in Fitchburg, to celebrate its 20th anniversary in the ’90s. The band continued this tradition until the Lodge closed, forcing the show to move locations. In recent years, The Bull Run, in Shirley, has been the new location for the annual show, but for Five Cents Extra’s anniversary, there’s no place like home. Band leader John Girouard said “We decided were going to take it back to Fitchburg, just to bring it all back home, which is the theme of the night.”
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The band was formed around 1976 by John Girouard, Ducky Belliveau and Ron Gagnon. “I was brought up listening to this kind of music, the retro country music from the ’50s, and when I was living in Harvard Square, I was going out to see these guys that were doing western swing music and I thought, wow this is great, no one is doing this.” Girouard said. Girouard returned to Fitchburg in the early ’80s and started playing retro country and western swing music in this area with a friend he convinced to buy a pedal steel guitar. “I got the name from a bluegrass band already out called Breakfast Special, so I thought, at the bottom of the menu everything was five cents extra, so I said we’ll call it that,” Girouard said. As the crowds grew, so did the need to get louder. The band introduced a drummer and some electric guitars and soon was playing to larger crowds than it had before. Even if you’ve never heard of Five Cents Extra, there’s
The Thanksgiving Eve show will be held at 7 p.m., Nov. 21, at the Fitchburg Armory, 14 Wallace Ave., Fitchburg. For more information, visit the show’s event page on Facebook.
still plenty of reasons to check out this show. Many of the band’s influences come from the greats like Elvis Presley, Hank Williams, Bob Dylan, the Beatles and Merle Haggard. With influences like those, there is a little bit of something for everyone. The show has sold out the past few years at The Bull Run, but Girouard said he knows many people don’t want to drive all the way to Shirley, have a few drinks and then drive home again. If you didn’t get a chance to catch the show when Five Cents Extra played at the Country Lodge, seeing the show this year will be a chance to step back in time.
PULSEBOOKS: Give thanks for these new books Kimberly Ruscitti Night of Miracles (Random House) by Elizabeth Berg is a heartwarming story about the power of friendship and kindness in a small southern community. Each night before Lucille Howard goes to sleep, she begs the angel of death to spare her, as she has not yet witnessed her great miracle in life. Lucille, an elderly woman and longtime resident of the small community of Mason, Mo., is recovering from the loss of the love of her life and, despite her age, stays busy by offering baking classes to members of the community. Through her classes, she meets many different people, including Iris, her new baking assistant. Iris knows nothing of baking, but is running from a past life filled with regret, one she is able to come to terms with after spending her days with Lucille. Iris isn’t the only person Lucille helps during times of trouble or indecision. When tragedy strikes the family next door, Lucille begins to watch after their son, Lincoln, when his parents aren’t home. Lincoln and Lucille get on swimmingly and, through their mutual friendship, help each other heal during a hard time. Though Lucille still waits for her big miracle, what she does not know is that her kindness and selflessness has already created many miracles – great and small – for those around her. Worth noting: Night of Miracles is a continuation of one of Berg’s previous books, The Story of Arthur Truluv, though stands alone as its own book. Jodi Picoult has once again taken a sensitive, polarizing topic and given life to each side of the argument in her latest book Spark of Light (Ballantine Books). The book takes place over one day, one in which a distraught father enters a women’s health center and begins shooting those inside. This story is about the survivors inside, including Bex and Wren, the sister and 15-year-old daughter of the hostage negotiator, Hugh. Picoult tells the story in reverse, with each chapter covering the period of one hour, beginning at 5 p.m., when the hostage situation is nearly over and most survivors have been released, and ending with 8 a.m. that morning. Though the format might sound confusing, as you know who lives and dies in the first few pages, it keeps the reader engaged as you slowly learn each person’s story and why he or she is at the abortion clinic that day. Picoult sets her story in a small, conservative town in Mississippi, in which there exists no gray areas when it comes to abortion laws and women’s rights. While the shooting and hostage situation are taking place, Picoult tells the story of Beth, a 17-year-old who is in the hospital and under arrest for murder after taking an abortion pill at home. The subject matter is a tough one – pro-life vs. pro-choice – but Picoult uses her unique characters to give readers pause, no matter what side of the issue they stand on.
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EVENTS HAPPENING AROUND CENTRAL MASSACHUSETTS IN NOVEMBER 2018: THE SMOKIN’ HOT LAUNCH PARTY Worcester Firefighters are back again this year with their smokin’ hot calendar, created by Pulse Magazine, and they want you to come help them celebrate. Purchasing a 2019 calendar will benefit the Worcester Box 4 Special Services Canteen. At the party, there will be a runway show and calendar signings, meaning
you can have a great night out while helping your community. 7 p.m., Nov. 15; El Basha Restaurant, 256 Park Ave., Worcester; calendars are $12.95; tickets are $20 online and $25 at the door; worcfirefightercalendar.com.
THE WIZARD OF OZ The Hanover Theatre will host one of the most famous family-friendly musicals
to ever hit the stage. The Wizard of Oz you already know and love comes alive with dazzling special effects, incredible choreography and classic songs from the film you grew up watching. Follow Dorothy, the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man
and Scarecrow down the yellow brick road to Oz – just keep an eye out for the
flying monkeys! Nov. 8-11; Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester; $44-$79, hanovertheatre.org.
MAPLE FARM SANCTUARY TOUR Maple Farm Sanctuary offers tours to meet more than 100 of its rescued animals. Every Saturday and Sunday, tours are given that allow you and your family to meet rescued cows, goats, pigs, chickens and more. 2 p.m. Saturdays and noon and 2
p.m. Sundays; the last tour of the season will be given Nov. 24; Maple Farm Sanctuary, 101 North Ave., Mendon; $8 for children, $12 for adults; maplefarmsanctuary.org.
KRINGLE MART Come to the Sprinkler Factory and do some local holiday shopping from at the
Kringle Mart. There will be artwork, illustrations, handcrafted paper, jewelry, wood products, leather products, handcrafted teas, gourmet foods, locally made natural bath products and more. There will be a Santa’s Workshop for children
sponsored by Art Reach and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Nov. 17; Sprinkler Factory, 38 Harlow St., Worcester; free; sprinklerfactory.com.
TRANS SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA The Trans Siberian Orchestra is coming to Worcester with its dazzling lights and
musical display. The theme for this year’s show is The Ghosts of Christmas Eve. This show is an excellent and unforgettable experience for all ages and all music
lovers. 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Nov. 24; DCU Center, 50 Foster St., Worcester; $43-$77; dcucenter.com.
stART AT THE STATION stART on the Street brings its 13th annual gifting-themed arts and crafts festival
to Worcester’s Union Station. Browse through 100 artists and crafters in the Grand Hall, then stroll around the Concourse, where 35 more artists and crafters
will be selling their wares. Wares will range from textiles, pottery, stained glass and fine jewelry to photography, pet wares, holiday cards, ornaments, terrariums
and more. 11a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 2; Union Station, 2 Washington Square, Worcester; go
early from 9-11 a.m. for $10, admission is free starting at 11 a.m.; startonthestreet.org.
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CLUB LISTINGS 435 Bar & Grill 435 Lancaster St., Leominster Nov. 3: Matt Soper Nov. 9: Ken Macy Nov. 10: Ethan & Ashley Caouette Nov. 16: Fred Ellsworth Nov. 17: Kevin Shields Nov. 21: Alex Cohen Nov. 23: Dan Kirouac Nov. 24: Lizzy Marquis Nov. 30: Brain Chaffee The Banner Bar & Grille 112 Green St., Worc. 508-755-0879 thebannerbar.com Thursdays: Rick Hamel Barber’s Crossing Road House 861 Main St., Leicester 508-892-7575 barberscrossingrestaurant.com Nov. 16: Three Little Birds Barbers Crossing (North) 175 Leominster Road, Sterling 978-422-8438 barberscrossingrestaurant.com Thursdays: Open Mic Fridays: Bill McCarthy Beatnik’s 433 Park Ave., Worc. 508-926-8877 beatniksbeyou.com Thursdays: Center Stage Karaoke Fridays, Saturdays: Live Music Nov. 3: Waffle Jacket Nov. 10: The Pathetics & Evil Felipe Black Sheep Tavern 261 Leominster Road, Sterling 978-422-8484 Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays: Live Music Blueprint New American Bar & Grill 9 Village Square, Westminster 978-668-5580 Nov. 3: Jay Matarano Nov. 8: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell Nov. 9: Middlemen Nov. 10: Kevin Shields Nov. 15: Dave Harrington Nov. 16: Mike Melendez Nov. 17: Scott Babineau Nov. 23: Midnight Sharp Nov. 24: Rita Tolman Nov. 29: Dan Cormier Nov. 30: Whitney Doucette Boardroom 139 Water St., Worc. 508-757-6259 boardroomwoo.com Fridays, Saturdays: DJs Breakaway Billiards 104 Sterling St., Clinton 978-365-6105 Nov. 21: Thanksgiving Eve with Synergy Nov. 24: The Great Escape (Journey tribute)
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Chopstick’s Restaurant & Lounge 21 Commercial Road, Leominster 978-534-0020 chopsticksleominster.com Nov. 23: Riff Raff Nov. 24: Riff Raff Chuck’s Steak House and Margarita Grill 10 Prospect St., Auburn 508-832-2553 chucks.com Nov. 9: Cosby Sweaters Nov. 16: TB Light Nov. 23: My Better Half Nov. 30: Drunken Uncles Compass Tavern 90 Harding St., Worc. 508-304-6044 thecompasstavern.com Fridays, Saturdays: DJs Nov. 21: FM Live The Cove Music Hall 89 Green St., Worc. 508-363-1888 thecovemusichall.com Nov. 3: Aquanett Nov. 16: Bobaflex Nov. 17: Everybody Wants Some (Van Halen tribute), Tester Nov. 21: Thanksgiving Eve with The Flock! Nov. 23: Secondhand Smoke (Sublime tribute) Electric Haze 26 Millbury St, Worc. 508-799-0629 Mondays: Open Woo (open mic) Tuesdays: Tone Deaf Tuesday Karaoke Thursdays: Happy Hour Hookah Specials Fridays: Airspray Weekly Queer Dance Party Nov. 3: A String Cheese After Party with Skyfoot and Swimmer Nov. 24: Playing Dead Flip Flops 680 Main St., Holden 508-829-3008 flipflopsma.com Nov. 16: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell Frank’s 274 Shrewsbury St., Worc. 774-420-2253 Nov. 3: Petty Larceny Nov. 9: Infinite Groove Nov. 10: Girls on Girls Nov. 16: Shamrock Whiskey Nov. 17: Jokers Wild Nov. 23: Dezi Garcia Nov. 24: Dock 10 Nov. 30: Sarah Carcia Gardner Ale House 74 Parker St., Gardner 978-669-0122 gardnerale.com Sundays: Live Jazz Brunch Buffet Mondays: Blue Mondays Thursdays: Big Music Nights and Audio Wasabi Nov. 9: Dan Cormier Nov. 10: Goldrush Nov. 16: Jodee & Brian
Nov. 17: JCDC Nov. 21: Thanksgiving Eve w/Our Buddy Karl Nov. 23: Fern & Rita›s Rock & Roll Reunion Nov. 24: Caves on Mars Nov. 30: Tom Savoy Du The GazBar Sports Grill 1045 Central St., Leominster thegazbar.com Nov. 3: Lizzie Marquis Nov. 8: Chris Terp Nov. 9: Mike Melendez Nov. 10: The Lost Artifacts Nov. 15: Heather Ralston Nov. 16: Whitney Doucette Nov. 17: The Maniac Loves You Nov. 23: Red Bridge Duo Nov. 24: Joe Macey Nov. 29: Lizzie Marquis
Greater Good Imperial Brewing Co. 55 Millbrook St., Worcester ggimperials.com Nov. 1: Hip Swayers Nov. 2: Ken Graff Nov. 3: Matt Hart Nov. 8: Chad Clements Nov. 10: Fergus Nov. 16: Ken Graff Nov. 17: Jonny Taylor Nov. 18: Jay Gahm Nov. 23: Paul Courchaine Nov. 24: Taylor/Haydew Duet Nov. 29: Mike Ladd Nov. 30: Double Dose of Dave
Greendale’s Pub 404 W. Boylston St., Worc. 508-853-1350 greendalespub.com Sundays: Sunday Blues Wednesdays: Wacky Wednesday Jam Nov. 3: Auntie Trainwreck, Stone Face Nov. 4: Jim›s Blues Jam with A Ton of Blues Nov. 9: Clam Digger Nov. 10: Heavy Horses Nov. 16: Riff Raff Nov. 21: Silverbacks Nov. 24: Everbody wants some Nov. 30: Play Back Happy Jack’s 785 North Main St., Leominster 978-466-3433 Nov. 3: Sean Fullerton Nov. 9: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell Nov. 10: Alan Goodrich Nov. 16: Lizzy Marquis Nov. 17: Santino Proietti Nov. 23: Scott Babineau Nov. 24: Steve Tolley Nov. 30: Dave Malouin Legends Airport Road, Fitchburg 978-342-6500 Nov. 9: Melissa Gates Nov. 14: James Keyes Nov. 28: Alex Cohen Nov. 30: Ken Macy Loft 266 Bar & Lounge 266 Park Ave., Worc. 508-796-5177 loft266.com Fridays, Saturdays: DJ Joe T MB Lounge 40 Grafton St., Worc. 508-799-4521 mblounge.com Sundays: Seasonal Martini Sundays
Mondays: Industry Night with Keith Tuesdays: Throwback Tuesdays with Andy R. Wednesdays: Karaoke with Mikey Mics Thursdays: Drinks with Superman Shawn Fridays, Saturdays: Guest and House DJs Medusa Brewing Company 111 Main St., Hudson 978-310-1933 medusabrewing.com Nov. 3: Dave Ashman Jr Nov. 9: James Keyes Nov. 10: Mike Melendez Nov. 15: Open Mic Night Nov. 16: The Promise is Hope Nov. 17: Fields Nov. 21: Big Jon Short Nov. 24: Brian Chaffee Nov. 29: Open Mic Night Nov. 30: Graham Brown Michael’s Cigar Bar 1 Exchange Place, Worc. 508-459-9035 michaelscigar.com Nov. 3: Ambient Sojourn Nov. 8: Jim Devlin Nov. 9: Fellowship of The King Nov. 10: Hit the Bus Nov. 15: Spaceout Nov. 16: Can›t Find a Better Band Nov. 17: Doctor Robert Nov. 21: Hit the Bus Nov. 23: Blue Light Bandits Nov. 24: Abraxas Nov. 29: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell Nov. 30: Brumbletones The Mill 185 185 W. Boylston St., W. Boylston 774-261-8585 themill185.com Nov. 3: Bill McCarthy Nov. 8: Jodee Frawlee Nov. 9: Jay Graham Nov. 10: Melissa Gates Nov. 15: Ken Macy Nov. 16: FM Live Nov. 17: Katie O›Brien Duo Nov. 21: Thanksgiving Eve with Chris Reddy Nov. 23: The Mint Duo Nov. 24: Sam James Nov. 29: Night Train Nov. 30: Jodee & Brian The Monument Tap 13 Central St., Leominster 978-798-4653 monumenttap.com Nov. 9: Karaoke Nov. 15: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell Nov. 16: The Middlemen Nov. 23: Full Monty Nick’s Bar and Restaurant 124 Millbury St., Worc. 508-753-4030 Nov. 23: Little Red & The Riders at Nick›s The Palladium 261 Main St., Worc. 508-797-9696 thepalladium.net Nov. 3: The String Cheese Incident Nov. 6: pvmnts, wstr Nov. 7: The Roast Of Ronnie Radke Nov. 8: GWAR Nov. 9: Palaye Royale Continued on Page 21
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Nov. 10: Heavy Fest Nov. 14: Spite, Shadow Of Intent Nov. 15: Silverstein Nov. 17: Louis The Child Nov. 19: Stray From The Path, Silent Planet Nov. 20: Doyle Nov. 21: A Wormtown Thanksgiving with Zach Deputy & The Yankees Nov. 23: Tech N9ne Nov. 25: The Contortionist Nov. 29: Playboi Carti Park Grill and Spirits 257 Park Ave., Worc. Mondays, Fridays, Saturdays: Dick Doherty’s Beantown Comedy Escape Partner’s Pub 970 South St., Fitchburg 978-345-5051 partnerspub.com Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays: Karaoke Nov. 3: Sean Daley Nov. 10: Dazed Till Dawn Nov. 17: Rock It Nov. 21: Sean Daley & The Hooligans Nov. 24: Whiskey Johnson Quinn’s Irish Pub 715 W. Boylston St., Worc. 508-459-2025 quinnsirishpub.com Nov. 3: Ken Macy Nov. 4: Graham Brown Nov. 7: Mike Melendez Nov. 8: Sam James Nov. 9: Kevin Shields Nov. 10: Terry Brennan Nov. 11: John Brazile Nov. 14: Chris Reddy Nov. 15: John Brazile
Nov. 16: Ken Macy Nov. 17: Lyssa Coulter Nov. 18: Terry Brennan Nov. 21: Sarah Carcia Nov. 22: Sam James Nov. 23: Terry Brennan Nov. 24: Chad Clements Nov. 25: Terry Brennan Nov. 28: Brett Brumby Nov. 29: John Brazile Nov. 30: Kevin Shields The Raven 258 Pleasant St., Worc. 508-304-8133 Wednesdays: Open Mic Thursdays: ComMutiny River Styx Brewing 166 Boulder Drive, Fitchburg riverstyxbrewing.com Nov. 9: Yea Tones Nov. 16: Derek Fimbel Nov. 17: Success Theatre Nov. 30: Lane Torosian Rye & Thyme 14 Monument Square, Leominster 978-534-5900 ryeandthyme.com Nov. 3: Dwayne Haggins Band Nov. 4: Brunch with Nico Rivers Nov. 8: Brian Lavery & Jacob Olsen Nov. 9: Monica McNamara Nov. 10: Doctor Robert Nov. 11: Brunch with Zack Slik Nov. 15: Dan Cormier Nov. 16: Sean Daley & The Hooligans Nov. 17: Hot Mess Nov. 18: Brunch with Sean Fullerton Nov. 23: Joe Grizzley presents New Fame
Nov. 24: Mint Nov. 25: Jon Short Nov. 29: Scott Babineau Nov. 30: De La High South Side Grille & Margarita Factory 242 W. Broadway, Gardner 978-632-1057 southsidemargaritafactory.com Nov. 3: The Fabulous Dinosaurs Nov. 9: Steve Tolley Nov. 10: Honkey Tonk Hangover Nov. 16: Dave Harrington Nov. 17: Midnight Sharp Nov. 21: Sobernought Nov. 23: Alan Goodrich Nov. 24: The Crushers with Max Recoil Nov. 30: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell Nov. 30: Whiskey Johnson The Tavern on Central 3 Central St., Ashburnham 978-827-1272 thetavernoncentral.com Nov. 3: Max Recoil Nov. 9: Hot Mess Nov. 10: Tim & Lou Nov. 16: Ken Macy Band Nov. 17: Ton of Blues Nov. 23: JCDC Nov. 24: Evan Foisy Nov. 30: Mike Melendez Tryst Lounge 320 Main St., Fitchburg 978-400-7906 thetrystlounge.com Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays: DJs
Union Music 142 Southbridge St., Worc. 508-753-3702 unionmusic.com Nov. 10: Open Mic w/ TJ Peavey Vincent’s Bar 49 Suffolk St., Worc. 508-752-9439 Tuesdays: Boogie Chillin’ Whiskey on Water 97 Water St., Worc. 774-578-8829 whiskeyonwater.com Sundays, Wednesdays: Karaoke with DJ Soup Thursdays: DJ Cuzn Kev Fridays: DJ Tec Threat Saturdays: Rotating DJs Nov. 3: Tequila Bonfire Nov. 9: PK & The Mighty 7 Nov. 10: Sam James Nov. 16: Traveling Wanna B’s Nov. 17: Lower Level Nov. 21: Thanksgiving Eve w/The Flat Five Nov. 23: Eric Paquette Duo Nov. 24: Brittnee Maia & BJ Sparano Nov. 30: Alex 2E White Eagle Polish Club 112 Green St., Worc. 774-245-1991 Thursdays: Musical Bingo Fridays: DJs Nov. 10: Cactus Country Nov. 24: Big Ten Inch (Aerosmith Tribute)
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FLYING RHINO CAFE – TASTE OF SHREWSBURY ST.
NUOVO – TASTE OF SHREWSBURY ST.
PARKWAY RESTAURANT & BAR – TASTE OF SHREWSBURY ST.
PICCOLO’S – TASTE OF SHREWSBURY ST.
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LOFT 266 BAR & LOUNGE – WORCESTER
THE COVE MUSIC HALL – WORCESTER
RIVER STYX BREWING – FITCHBURG
THE MILL 185 – WEST BOYLSTON
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LI F ESTY LE
FOR THE HOLIDAYS,
CHECK YOUR LOCAL SHOPS Kaycee Roy Each year, it seems the list of gifts to buy just gets longer and longer. There’s parents, grandparents, longtime friends, cousins, aunts, uncles, siblings and even coworkers. As you work your way down the list, finding thoughtful, original and unique gifts can sometimes be difficult. Overall, the season of giving tends to translate to the season of spending. With that said, the look on the faces of those receiving that special something you give them is always priceless. So where should you go to check off all the people on your list? This year, try going down the street. Worcester is full of locally owned shops, boutiques and craft festivals that can help you find everything you need to satisfy even the pickiest people on your list. Shopping local will not only help you, it will help your community. Every time you chose to go local instead of rushing to a department store, you are helping a real person who has taken the time and effort to create something unique. For months, local businesses prepare for the upcoming holiday season and the high demand it brings. An employee at the Crompton Collective, a curated boutique marketplace in a historic Worcester mill building at 138 Green St., Kelsey Bosselait said, “We have a ton of people during the holidays. Actually, December is really busy for us, which we love.” Bosselait said weekends are usually nonstop for the collective, but emphasized the importance of supporting
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local businesses – and therefore supporting the entire community. “We always think it’s really important to try and support local business and to be putting your money back into the community. With all the local artisans we have, when you buy something from one of our booths, you’re supporting that person directly, as well as the staff that work in the shop.” In the same mill building is Seed to Stem, a boutique that specializes in natural and unique gift items. Owner and operator Virginia Orlando said preparation for the holidays is something that they take very seriously. Seed to Stem has been in Worcester for nearly seven years, and Orlando said it wasn’t a very easy when they first started, “It was very difficult in the beginning. There were a lot of out-of-pocket costs that we had because we didn’t want to take out loans.” That experience in the beginning is something that can be easily forgotten as a consumer. The expenses of owning a business fall on the owner, and that’s certainly not easy when raising a family or trying to save for the future. Orlando said, “Keeping money in the community is very important to the growth of business and the development of community. Having money going to real people and making sure money is going to those who need it, versus going to a department store where it could be going anywhere, is very important.” Seed to Stem has expanded its current location and is starting an online shop. Orlando said she’s excited to see what the holidays will bring.
Shops aren’t the only place to go, either. Events like stART at the Station (Dec. 2) at Union Station and The Holiday Festival of Crafts (Nov. 23-25) at the Worcester Center for Crafts are great opportunities to find some truly unique items while you help your community. This year, The Holiday Festival of Crafts will celebrate its 50th anniversary. Honee Hess, the executive director for the Worcester Center for Crafts, said, “We’re really excited to be able to continue to offer this service to the community and to the artists.” The festival is held the weekend following Thanksgiving, making it an excellent option if you want to take advantage of Black Friday shopping without having to risk losing an arm and a leg in the mall. “Our whole theme is that we’re the alternative to Black Friday and big box stores. We have many, many people who come here over the three days of the festival who prefer when they’re giving – or when they’re giving to themselves – to look at artist-created, handmade, American products,” Hess said “What people tell us is that there is this connection,” Hess said, “people to people, so you know that someone actually made it and spent time and energy and their artistic talent on it, and you transfer that to whoever you’re giving it to.” She added, “The connection with the human activity of making is something that you can only find through art.”
OUT+ABOUT: I’m voting Yes on 3
John Trobaugh In Massachusetts, the month of November has particular significance this year. There is a group (funded by out-of-state conservative organizations) that managed to get on the ballot a repeal of a law designed to protect the transgender community. This group pitched the repeal as one that would protect your mother and daughter from being accosted in public restrooms by men. The reality is that no one in Massachusetts has been accosted because of the trans public accommodation protection law, and in September, a study was published in The Boston Globe that proved it. According to The Boston Globe, “Researchers at the Williams Institute, a think tank focused on gender identity at the UCLA School of Law, examined restroom crime reports in Massachusetts cities of similar size and comparable demographics and found no increase in crime and no difference between cities that had adopted transgender policies and those that had not.” So what does the current law do? It makes it illegal to discriminate based on a perception of transgender status in any public accommodation (i.e., a hospital, a grocery store, a public park or anywhere the public would have a right to access). It also makes it easier for a trans person who has been discriminated against to seek a legal remedy. The repeal ballot question is also worded very differently than the other two ballot questions. The other two ballot questions are worded so that if you want to make a change to the current law, then you vote yes to adopt a new provision. On Ballot Question 3, however, if you vote yes, the discrimination protection law that went into effect in 2016 will remain intact. If you vote no, then you will be repeal the law that protects our trans community. That is why I am voting Yes on 3! The reason the legislature passed this law is precisely because trans people are the ones that are abused in public places – yes, even in Massachusetts. Health disparities and employment discrimination also make our trans community among the poorest and most vulnerable, even as compared to the LGB population. It is even noted on the government website that was set up to highlight the most vulnerable populations, healthypeople.gov/2020. The problem is even graver than just poor health. Each year, our community gathers to remember all the known trans individuals that have been murdered. (I note known, because their families, local officials or sometimes the local press will misidentify them.) For the last five-plus years, this ceremony has been held at the Worcester Public Library. The Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDoR), also known as the International Transgender Day of Remembrance, is observed annually on Nov. 20 as a day to memorialize those who have been murdered as a result of transphobia and to draw attention to the continued violence endured by the transgender community. I have participated in this ceremony, on my birthday, for the last seven years. We read the hundred-plus names and offer a prayer in a variety of religious traditions. This year, I vote Yes on 3 in honor and memory of those who have suffered and been murdered simply because they are trans.
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THE LUXE LIST
6 Slick Tech Solutions
Merilee Kern Fall is here, so it’s time to get out there and enjoy the cool weather – and also kick that holiday shopping into high gear. Here are a few tech-oriented options that make great gets for yourself and gifts for others.
LENOVO SMART DISPLAY
Here’s a cool way to make every day easier and your home smarter: the Lenovo Smart Display. Stylish and easy to use, this device will be there to help, inform or entertain anytime. Use it to streamline your tasks so you can spend more time on what matters most, like catching up with friends or having some quality “me time.” The Lenovo Smart Display does more than typical smart speakers, thanks to a brilliant touchscreen, available in 8- or 10-inch options. You can do it all hands-free, using only your voice to ask your assistant questions and command it. You can check your morning commute or the weather and stream music, radio and YouTube videos. Use it to browse your Google Photos, video call friends and family, bring up a recipe and so much more. $199.99-$249.99, lenovo.com.
PHOTOSPRING DIGITAL PHOTO FRAME
A great way to effortlessly view your summer memories with your family and friends (and those yet to come) is with PhotoSpring, which is no ordinary digital photo frame. This one displays photos and videos as a frame, while also letting you browse through them like an album. The device automatically collects and displays your photos from different devices. Since PhotoSpring is always on, you can enjoy your images effortlessly, all throughout the day. You can also view memories as they happen, as photos and videos taken from your smartphone can be instantly displayed on your PhotoSpring or shared to other PhotoSpring frames, wherever they may be. $159.95, photospring.com.
CAULDRYN BATTERY HEATED MUG
Those indelibly on-the-go will love Cauldryn. This heated, battery-powered mug keeps your coffee, tea, soup and other liquids at your selected temperature all day long, making each sip perfect. Pick any temperature from room temp to boiling, and Cauldryn precisely maintains it, thanks to its 10-hour battery life. Use the arrow buttons on the bottle to set your temperature or use the free phone app to control it from a distance. Cauldryn’s modular design means the battery and heating element are removable for easy cleaning. $129.99, cauldryn.com
TRAQ SMART SHOES
Here’s some killer wearable technology for fitness-minded folks. TRAQ, Alegria’s first smart shoes, have a built-in pedometer and a personalized app community. The designs are made for walking, working and leisure, simultaneously allowing you to accurately count every step, thanks to the smart Q-Chip embedded right in the shoe. Easily connect the integrated pedometer in the shoes to the accompanying Alegria TRAQ smartphone app to view your daily and monthly step activity. You can do everything in your daily routine while stepping out in intelligent, blissful comfort. Style-wise, the designs use supple leathers, vivid prints and supportive footbeds. Oh, and there’s no need to charge these smart shoes – ever – for the lifetime of the shoes. Prices vary, traqshoes.com.
TOUCHPOINTS BASIC
Learning how to effectively deal with stress is important because, when untreated, it can undermine our physical and emotional health. Unfortunately, traditional methods of managing stress can require a significant financial and time investment. So finding a way to regulate it while you go about your normal day represents a profound shift in the way we all can live more productive lives. This is what TouchPoints offers, working as a holistic health partner for body and mind. TouchPoints are twin neuroscientific wearables designed to provide fast relief from stress. They are worn on the wrist, on each side of the body, preventatively or on-the-spot for 15 minutes before, during or after a stressful situation. The basic design offers the three most popular settings: sleep, calm and anger, and also has customizable faces. $160, touchpointsolution.com.
VOCOPRO DRIFTER SYSTEM
If you’re a karaoke entertaining enthusiast, singer/songwriter, DJ or band seeking a rechargeable and portable PA system (or know one that is), then the Drifter solution from audio leader VocoPro is a great choice! Its convertible design compresses line array speakers into a rechargeable, 120-watt, all-in-one karaoke and PA system. It features a four- to six-hour rechargeable battery, so the unit can be placed anywhere, either with or without an electrical outlet. It also has a multi-color LED light with on/off switch that dances to the beat of music. Users can enjoy hours of music entertainment from the unit’s built-in USB MP3 player, FM and line inputs, while Bluetooth allows users to access thousands of karaoke songs on YouTube via any smartphone or tablet. $399, vocopro.com.
As the executive editor and producer of The Luxe List, Merilee Kern is an internationally regarded consumer product trends expert and hospitality industry voice of authority. She identifies and reports on exemplary travel destinations and experiences, extraordinary events and newsworthy products and services across all categories. Reach her at TheLuxeList.com, on Twitter @LuxeListEditor, on Facebook at TheLuxeList and on Instagram at LuxeListReviews.
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FINDINGBALANCE: Are you flexible? Jennifer Russo
Like the colder weather coming in and changing the landscape we see, I have found myself experiencing a lot of change in my personal environment. I’ll be the first to admit that I am extremely uncomfortable with change … OK …I loathe it, and the last couple of months have been extremely trying. Work is tense, life is busy, and we have two major holidays coming up that I am simply not ready for.
This is all a lesson in flexibility, I think. How flexible are we, not only physically, but emotionally and mentally, as well? Can we navigate transitions in our life with ease, or are we struggling to bend to life’s new course? Becoming more adaptable to new ideas, expectations and a changing environment may be a learning experience for some of us.
Vinyasa yoga is a wonderful, flowy representation of how we can mirror this in a physical way. Not only is it a great workout that steadily increases heart rate, but it also gives us flexibility and strength. When we are stressed, we are less flexible because we tense our muscles and tend to hunch our bodies, actually increasing the risk of injury. And though this may seem purely physical, it actually decreases our confidence levels to stay in that posture for any length of time.
Practicing heart-opening poses (like reverse warrior pose or camel pose) also allows us to be open to the offerings of the universe, and pairing that with breathing and meditation helps us to open our mind and release stress. Focusing on our breathing throughout a yoga practice – or even at any point during our day – calms our nervous system, which is necessary in those moments where the stress of change might make our breath irregular.
If we take a different approach to change, we may find that there are opportunities within that we may not have noticed otherwise. Stepping out of our comfort zone, even if not of our own accord, may prove to be a good thing if we are flexible enough to go with the flow. If anything, it would certainly be less painful.
The pure light in me honors the pure light in you. Namaste.
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FOOD + D R IN K
MADDI’S COOKERY & TAPHOUSE 64 WATER ST, WORCESTER (508) 459-1080 MADDISCOOKERY.COM
Bernie Whitmore I will admit, the first time I went to Maddi’s, I was dubious. This doubt wasn’t based upon anything I’d read or had heard about the cuisine; it was more a trepidation I felt when faced with the exuberant throng of shiny selfietakers packed around the bar and spilling out the entrance onto the sidewalk. It was clearly a crowd I’d aged out of long ago, but still I wondered: Is this a place you go to be seen or to get good food and drink? Then, immediately after being served, I realized none of that really mattered. The food was delicious, imaginative and capable of surprise. That initial experience took place soon after Maddi’s had opened; to get a better sense of the place, I asked a friend to accompany me for a return visit. Maddi’s is located in Worcester’s Canal District and occupies a couple storefronts, with a bar and dining space on the entrance side and a kitchen that opens up to the larger dining room on the other side. Both rooms are decorated with advertising signs you may have found on Water Street 50 years ago. We were seated at a hightop table in the window and served by Rhea, who freely offered conversation, helpful advice and, of course, excellent service. When it comes to beer, Maddi’s takes seriously its TapRoom moniker, with a selection that varies on a regular basis in a range of types that aims to satisfy each of our preferences. I chose a glass of Laser Cat, an Imperial IPA
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brewed in Hudson by the Medusa Brewing Company. My friend was pleased enough with his glass of Rekorderlig Strawberry-Lime Hard Cider that he offered me a taste.
crunchy, light golden brown. All this is topped with an egg fried sunny side up. That’s unusual, but the real difference with Maddi’s is in the jalapeño-infused maple syrup.
Remember Charms Blow Pops? That’s what this cider reminded me of – candy sweet. We all have our preferences; I was relieved to return to my glass of Cat with its Citra hop palette of flavors.
At some restaurants, Chicken & Waffle devolves into an Aunt Jemima experience of buckets of sticky-sweet maple syrup heated till it envelops the dish in a cloying vapor. Not so at Maddi’s. The maple syrup is an ideal mix of sweet and spicy. And if you need an extra shot of fire, try one of the coin-sized discs of fried jalapeño pepper slices surrounding the waffle.
For our appetizer, we decided to share an order of Shrimp Potstickers. Soft and moist on top, pan-fried to a firm deep golden-brown on their bottoms, the order of six was a satisfying start. Each contained generously sized chunks of fresh shrimp and were served with a spicy dipping sauce. Moving to entrées, I chose an item from Maddi’s autumninspired menu. Autumn Scallops was a composition of five butternut raviolis, each topped with a large panseared scallop and served over tarragon brown butter. Autumn swept into this dish in the form of roasted wild mushrooms, which lent an elegant, earthy flavor, especially as they soaked up some of that tarragon butter. And finally, a scattering of candied pecan pieces contributed a bit of sweet and crunch. Some menu items seem perfect for taking stock of a kitchen’s culinary skill. No, I don’t have Veal Ossobuco or Oysters Rockefeller in mind (not right now, anyway). How about Fried Chicken & Waffle? That was my friend’s entrée choice, and I took a keen interest in his experience. Maddi’s starts with a huge, cheesy waffle that has bacon bits cooked right in. The chef tops this with boneless chicken pieces coated in a spicy dry rub and fried a
As my friend was trying to get a fix on the dry rub ingredients, Chris O’Harra, Maddi’s executive chef, stopped by and got specific for us: “The dry rub? Brown sugar, Cajun seasoning, cumin and coriander. A little sweet; a little heat. It’s a winning combination!” When things are going this well, I’m often up for dessert. A quick review of the menu revealed the obvious choice: Berry Berry Bread Pudding. Served with frills of real whipped cream, the huge chunk of bread pudding was oozing the purple syrup of blueberries and blackberries. But this dish could also have been called Eggy Eggy; the softened bread was baked into a rich, luxurious custard. Looking back at my initial impression, it’s obvious that I’d forgotten something fundamental about Worcester: Restaurants with the pedigree of Maddi’s generate big excitement. When a place is as fun as Maddi’s Cookery & TapHouse and surpasses expectations of delicious food, you might just have to wait a few minutes in line.
HOT&NOW: What’s hot and what’s happening now in the restaurant scene Paul Giorgio At the closing bell. A host of local eateries are shutting down or changing hands. Let’s start with the oldest. Maxwell Silverman’s, long a fixture in Worcester’s Lincoln Square, will be closing its current location after 42 years. Gus Giordano, the owner, is attempting to move the restaurant to Union Station and merge it with Luciano’s. Word on the street. Two Shrewsbury Street fixtures are changing also. British Beer Company is closing and selling its large space to Mexicali Grill. David Brambila, who owns several Mexican-themed places in the area, is the owner. One if by land, two if by sea. Rumors are flying that the Red Lantern on Shrewsbury Street will shortly be changing hands. No word on what is going into the space. Kummerspeck kloses. In Worcester, Water Street’s Kummerspeck called it quits in the middle of October. This very trendy eatery, which had lots of buzz, just couldn’t make it. It had great food, but the experimental nature of the place – combing a butcher shop and restaurant – couldn’t make a go of it. Matt Mahoney and his wife Rachel Coit were truly urban pioneers, but maybe the Woo is not ready for $40-a-pound steaks. Chopped Worcester winner. Rachel Coit, of Kummerspeck, took home the Golden Cleaver Award at Chopped!Worcester, a fundraiser for Jeremiah’s Inn which was held Sept 24 on the WPI campus. Bill Nemeroff, of BT’s Smokehouse in Sturbridge, came in second. Heavy is the head that wears the crown. Worcester’s Crown Bakery is expanding and recently purchased Mrs. Mack’s on Grafton Street. Mrs Mack’s has been a Grafton Hill fixture for more than 50 years and was run by the third generation. Crown Bakery, long known for its Swedish pastries, is owned by husband and wife Jen and Edward LaPointe. In addition to being a bakery, Crown will open for breakfast and lunch. The return of the Jeff. Jeff Mararian, the former owner of Water Street’s Blackstone Tap, has bought the building and business back. The business was seized by the federal government and sold recently. No word on what will happen or when it will happen, but there is a great deal of interest in the spot. We hear he is looking for an operator to take over. It’s no bull. It appears that Bull Mansion in downtown Worcester is no longer functioning as a restaurant but has converted over to a special events and function space. Putting the best spin on it, the owners say they are so busy with events that they can’t function as a restaurant. We have lost track, but this may be the third or fourth restaurant to stop serving here. Hit the bricks. Brickstone Restaurant recently opened on Route 146 in Sutton. The Italian-American eatery is owned by Anthony Joseph, who cut his teeth at Arturo’s, and his son-in-law, Justin Bonner. If past is prologue, you need to check this place out because Joseph is a great chef.
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NEW AROUND THE WOO
NORTH MAIN PROVISIONS 122 MAIN STREET, WORCESTER (774) 420-7434 NORTHMAINPROVISIONS.COM
NORTH MAIN PROVISIONS Rachel Shuster Located at 122 Main St. in Worcester, North Main Provisions is a spot for local products, unique items and delicious gourmet cheese and wine. Co-owned by restaurant scene vets Alexis Kelleher, owner of Crust Bakeshop, and Nate Rossi, North Main Provisions opened the second week of July and is already making a name for itself in the city. “Alexis owns Crust Bakeshop on Main Street, and I used to work at Armsby Abbey right next door,” Rossi said. “Two years ago, we met and started dating just before Alexis bought the bakery. We had been to shops like North Main Provisions in the past, and we thought that a shop like ours is what Worcester needed. Where better to do it than next to the bakery? You have bread, wine and cheese on the same block!” After doing renovations for the first half of the year, North Main Provisions opened and has been doing well ever since. “Things are going really well,” Rossi said. “We have a lot of turnout from people leaving the courthouse. They go get their coffee and pastries at the bakery in the morning from Alexis, and I get them at the end of day getting wine and cheese.” It’s no wonder the shop is doing well – Kelleher and Rossi have extensive experience. “Alexis grew up baking with her grandmother, and her family owns Coney Island in Worcester,” Rossi said. “She grew up working in kitchens and has always loved baking. She went to Wellesley College and got her bachelor’s degree there, but then went to culinary school in Vermont at the New England Culinary Institute with a focus on baking. She also worked at Crust as head baker before buying it from the previous owner.”
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As for Rossi, he attended Salter College in West Boylston as part of the culinary program. “I’ve also been working in restaurants for 15 years. I’ve worked at Friendly’s, Bertucci’s Corporation, The Sole Proprietor and as sous chef at Armsby Abbey. They have a great cheese program [at Armsby Abbey], which is where I learned a lot of what I know,” he said. As for what you can expect when you walk into North Main Provisions, you can be sure to find a wide variety of delicious cheese, wine and specialty grocery items. “We try to source as locally as possible,” Rossi said. “We do get some small items from France, some wine selections from Europe, but mostly from Massachusetts, New York and other local areas. We love the finer things in life and are just happy to share what we love with people of Worcester.” You can also expect some delicious gourmet grilled cheeses hot off the panini press on Crust Bakeshop’s bread! North Main Provisions also offers a robust catering menu with a variety of different-sized cheese and charcuterie boards. As for pricing, Rossi said that the wine is more middle of the road, ranging from $10$20. A lot of the cheeses are pre-packed, but you can also buy many artisanal cheeses by the pound. While most of this year has been about getting their feet wet, Rossi and Kelleher have big plans for North Main Provisions, including a full calendar for future wine tastings. So, be sure to keep your eyes peeled and your taste buds ready! To learn more about North Main Provisions, visit the shop on Facebook and Instagram or at northmainprovisions.com.
PULSEBREW: Sam Adams brings us Octoberfest Ryan Cashman Chances are you’ve shared in this feeling – the feeling of warmth and comfort, like being hugged by a large, benevolent teddy bear as you drift off into a peaceful, undisturbed sleep in front of a roaring fire. If you’ve had that feeling, then you know it happens every time you crack open a Sam Adams Octoberfest (OFest) and take that first swig. It does for me, anyway. This is a fierce exaggeration, but I can’t help feeling that this beer is a liquified hug. And that’s what you want in autumn, isn’t it? Unlike the hop-heavy, tart IPAs mentioned in past issues, OFest is all about malts. Many grains have been used in the long history of beer, but barley is the overall grain of choice. The process of malting barley involves soaking the grains, allowing them to germinate and then roasting them. The depth of the roasting dictates the type of beer being made. A lightly roasted malt will yield pale beers like pilsners. A darker roast, a darker beer, i.e., stouts and porters. OFest is in the style of the German Marzen, an amber lager with a smooth, sweet finish. The malts used here are on the darker side of a golden roast, which is the heat realm between light and dark. Traditionally – as far back as 1810, when Oktoberfest was started to celebrate the wedding of Munich’s crown prince – Marzen was served in elaborately decorated steins designed to celebrate the history of the Bavarian region of Germany. Today, you are more likely to find it bottled or canned. If it’s on tap, it’s going into a glass tankard. Here in the States, we celebrate seasons and festivals in our own, uniquely American way. We blend elements of our immigrant ancestors with American ingenuity. We create seasons within seasons, honoring cultures and traditions from across the globe. OFest is only available from late August to November. That limited window of availability makes it special. It’s celebrating the arrival of a new season. Sam Adams has ritualized beer in a sense. With 20-plus beers brewed under its banner, the craft mammoth has drinks honoring seasons, history and lifestyles. The company’s size and influence has alienated some truly committed craft beer drinkers. For me, though, Sam Adams created my bar of standards. Now, I’ve had plenty beers that have raised that bar or vaulted over it completely. Yet, there is something comforting about going back to where you started. It’s like coming home to that fire and that hug. It may not be groundbreaking, but it’ll always be good.
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ART + C U LTU R E
ELF THE MUSICAL brings the tradition of the holidays to Worcester Brian Wheeler
Elf the Musical will be at the Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester, from Nov. 20-Dec. 2. Tickets are $43-$76. For more information, visit hanovertheatre.org.
It’s a Wonderful Life. A Christmas Story. These are timeless films which have become a rite of viewing during the holiday season. In 2003, a new Christmas tradition emerged. Elf, starring Will Ferrell, instantly secured the title of a modernday classic with its iconic humor and cheer. Sam Hartley, 30, admits that this has been his favorite holiday film from the age of 15, when Elf was first released. “Never in a million years did I think I would one day play Buddy,” Hartley said. “Will Ferrell was a hero of mine – I would watch SNL every Saturday as a child.” Hartley, now 30, stars in the lead role of Elf The Musical, which has toured the country for the past three years, and beginning on Nov. 29, will make its way to The Hanover Theatre in Worcester. “It combines the heart of It’s a Wonderful Life, the humor and tradition of A Christmas Story and the classic jokes of Elf,” Hartley said. “It’s a good, fun show that brings out the best in everybody. Regardless of what your Christmas tradition is, we hit it all.” Though Hartley regards his performance as a respectful nod to Will Ferrell’s Buddy, he insists that the musical imparts his own take on the beloved character. “No one can touch Will Ferrell’s performance of Buddy, and it would be foolish to try,” he said. “We are the movie, with all of its famous bits and lines, but with our own take.” The show incorporates song, dance and a full orchestra with the classic storyline of Buddy, the 30-year-old human, who believes he is one of Santa’s elves. Hartley said the movie lends itself to a musical production: storytelling through song and dance.
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“In the movie, the first words out of Buddy’s mouth are ‘I am singing,’” Hartley said. Through the production, Buddy stands by his credo: “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!” Hartley considers his role as Buddy multifaceted. While, on one hand, it remains light-hearted and, at times, downright silly, Act 2 keeps the lessons and heart of the original work, which touch on the reality of human nature. Furthermore, through the stage production, relationships are explored in depth. “While a movie can tell a story more succinctly, there is a more literal representation of the story to be gained from the stage,” Hartley said. As a literal interpretation of the story, Elf The Musical highlights the emotional aspects. Hartley portrays the same Buddy – in all his blissful ignorance and innocence. When Buddy leaves a cold North Pole for the colder streets of New York City, he remains untainted by cynicism, and as a result, we fall in love with his character’s authenticity. Ultimately, Buddy’s spirit triumphs, and he brings Christmas cheer to New York City. Hartley, while spreading the tradition of Elf through his role as Buddy, notes that he shares in this tradition of Christmas joy with the audience. Traditionally on Christmas Eve, Hartley spent the day with his father’s side of the family and spent Christmas Day with his mother’s side of the family in his home of Lincoln, Neb. There was always an impressive dinner, plenty of presents and the observance of prayer. “I loved that I got to see them each year in such a specific way,” Hartley said. Having been on the road for the past four years, Hartley has deviated from previous family traditions, but still maintains his affinity for the season. “We don’t get to experience that family tradition of being home, but we create new traditions each year,” Hartley said. Elf The Musical is sure to bring with it the nostalgia of the first time we saw this movie and will make us fall in love with the characters all over again. It provides entertainment for all ages to enjoy and prepares us for the holiday season in all its merriment. “As soon as the overture hits you, you can feel the energy of gearing up for Christmas,” Hartley said.
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STYLE + B E A U TY
Fall brings the BEAUTY
Kaycee Roy There is no denying that fall is pumpkin season. Pumpkins are packed with vitamins A and C, which help to soothe and soften skin, so it should be no surprise that there are hundreds of pumpkin skin care products rolling out this fall. Here are five pumpkin products worth checking out before the end of the season!
PUMPKIN PURIFYING ENZYME PEEL Naturopathica has released its pumpkin peel again this season to help those with dull or clogged pores. The peel uses pumpkin enzymes to help exfoliate and clear
skin. It can be used in the shower and only takes about three minutes. Naturopathica takes a natural and holistic
approach to skin care and beauty, making this a great product for all skin types. $58, naturopathica.com.
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OF PUMPKINS
PUMPKIN SPICE AND VANILLA CHAI BODY MOISTURIZER
Ulta Beauty has released a body moisturizer that will help bring you the scent of fall while giving you softer, smoother and firmer skin. The blend of pure, natural hemp seed oil, pumpkin extract and other natural ingredients will condition your skin every time you use it. Daily use of this moisturizer is recommended for all skin types and will leave your skin glowing. $23, ulta.com/ brand/hempz.
PURIFYING PUMPKIN PORE DETOX MASK AND SCRUB
Target’s Urban Skin Rx skin care line has produced a dual-action mask and scrub that detoxifies and exfoliates skin giving you the ultimate facial treatment. This is an all-natural product great for all skin types. The selfarming scrub and scents of fall will help you relax and enjoy the season while giving you healthy, radiant skin. $16.99, target.com.
PERFECT PUMPKIN PEELING ENZYME MASQUE June Jacobs Perfect Pumpkin Enzyme Masque has paired science with nature for this mask. Pumpkin enzymes stimulate the growth of new skin cells to help improve skin tone and texture. The pumpkin enzymes paired with other natural ingredients like red, white and green tea fight premature signs of aging and make skin smooth. $65, junejacobs.com.
SWEET CINNAMON PUMPKIN BODY CREAM Bath & Body Works Sweet Cinnamon Pumpkin Body Cream is back for the fall season. This body cream is infused with shea butter to give skin moisture and softness with the scents of fall you already love. Let the scents of pumpkin, autumn cinnamon, whipped vanilla and gingersnap melt into your skin to give you all-day hydration. $13.50, bathandbodyworks.com.
STYLESAVVY: How to style a lob
April Goddard I have talked about the popularity of the lob (the long bob, a haircut sitting at
collarbone length or just below) for what is at least the last six months. And
frankly, it really made its debut more than a year ago on all facets of social media.
The lob is a fresh and modern hairstyle that is so versatile in shape, size and color, there is really a “lob” to suit everyone.
The lob can be cut in variety of ways. Lobs can be cut with layers and angled. They can be cut bluntly for maximum volume or thinned out to create a sleeker, more
manageable style. The most popular lob of the moment is a simple blunt cut that
falls just at the collarbone. So once you make the chop, you might start to look for more ways that you can style you new ’do. Read on for four fab ways to style your long bob.
SLEEK LOB This is a simple way to style your hair. Straight, sleek hair can add a level of elegance to any look. How to get it: Use a finishing cream and/or heat protectant
spray on damp hair. My go-to product? The Living Proof 5-in-1 Perfect Hair
Day styling cream. After applying, blow dry your hair straight with a round brush. Section off hair and run over small, 1- to 2-inch sections with a flat iron. Tame flyaways by using a hairspray and gently smooth hair with hands.
SLEEK UNDERCURL Repeat the same product and blow-drying steps as for a sleek lob. Section off hair.
Run a flat iron over sectioned off hair. But, when the end of a section is reached, curl iron inward towards the face, so that it creates a flip at the ends of the hair. Repeat until all sections are complete. Shake out and spray with finishing spray.
BEACHY WAVES Starting with dry hair, divide into 1- to 2-inch sections. With a 1-inch hot iron, curl hair away from face, leaving out the bottom inch of the sections. After curling the hair, spray with hairspray and shake out.
SUPER CURLS Start with dry hair. Section off into 1-inch sections. Use a curling iron to curl the
whole section of the hair (including the bottom half-inch of hair). Spray with hairspray and shake out. If more volume is desired, spray a volumizing spray into roots and use hands to fluff roots.
HALF UP, HALF DOWN Another sleek take on a shorter style (especially if you have one- or two-day-old hair) is this style. Start by spraying volumizing dry shampoo into roots. Create beach waves throughout with a curling iron and section off top half of hair starting
behind the ears and going up through the crown of the hair. Secure into ponytail or a messy bun with a hair tie. Smooth flyaways with hairspray.
thepulsemag.com
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