4
December 2016
december2016 In this issue COVER story
27 apps to save you money
6 happy retro holidays!
FOOD+DRINK
entertainment
28 new around the woo:
12 Neon alley
The Pint
13 pulsebooks: Eat, drink and be merry
29 Pulsebrew: Holiday gift ideas
14 THE central scene
30 dining review:
15 gameon: Batman gets the Telltale treatment
30
Bootleggers Prohibition Pub
31 hot & now
16 nowstreaming: JoJo / Phish / MercyMe
art+culture
18 Club, Pub + grub Listings
32 joe's albums brings records to a
22 PulseShots
whole new generation
read pulse Online @ ThePulseMag.com
follow us on social media:
lifestyle
beauty+style
24 the holiday gift guide
34 go glam for the holidays
25 OUT+ABOUT: LGBTQ community engagement
12
35 steal the style: Say 'Cheese!'
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 2015 All rights reserved. Pagio, Inc. does not hold itself responsible for statements made by any contributor. Statements or opinions expressed in Pulse reflect the views of the author(s) and not the official policy of the Pagio, Inc., unless so stated. Although all advertising material is expected to conform to ethical standards, acceptance does not imply endorsement by Pagio, Inc. unless so stated. Material printed in Pulse is covered by copyright. No copyright is claimed to any work of the U.S. government. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without written permission. For information on permissions, reprints and other services, contact Pagio, Inc. Also by Pagio Inc.: Worcester Medicine, Vitality Magazine, Thepulsemag.com, Thevitalitymag.com, & TasteWorcester.com
Paul Giorgio, Publisher Donna Roberson, Editor Vanessa Herbold, Art Director Chris Reddy, Alex Theisen, Kyle Sullivan Account Executives Mitchell Perry, Event Manager
Kim Dunbar, Sports Editor Jennifer Russo, Lifestyle Editor Kimberly Dunbar, Jennifer Russo, Jason Savio, Bernie Whitmore, Michael Wood, Paul Giorgio, Carly O’Brien, Merilee Kern, Kerry Cyganiewicz, John Trobaugh, Sloane Perron, Jamie Burke, Rachel Shuster, Kendall Korengold Writers
thepulsemag.com
5
cover story Photo courtesy of “Denholms – The Story of Worcester’s Premiere Department Store,” by Chris Sawyer.
! s y a d i l o H o r t e r y p p a H
s, it involves friend e ar s ce an , ch , te ra ay you celeb nd Central Mass. u d o li o ar h s h n o ic ti h w ra f b o le the holiday ce and regardless t. It ’s holiday time, we’ve compiled a list of some of aditions of the pas tr , o ay S d li s. o n h io it to ad in tr k a pee family and while giving you
6
December 2016
Photo courtesy of “Denholms – The Story of Worcester’s Premiere Department Store,” by Chris Sawyer.
Denholm’s for the holidays
Worcester’s Festival of Lights
Saturday, Dec. 10; 7:30-11 p.m. Denholm Building 484 Main St., Worcester $65-$125 call 508-754-8760 for tickets
Friday, Dec. 2; 5-9 p.m. Worcester Common 455 Main St., Worcester www.worcesterma.gov
With gilded escalators, festive window displays and a wide array of fashions, Denholms once was Worcester’s largest and most modern department store. Experience the building once again lit up for the holidays and relive the golden days of shopping in downtown Worcester. You’ll see Deholm’s decked out for the holidays; enjoy hors d’oeuvres, dessert and a cash bar; and watch the Vintage Showcase with James Hogan, guest designer
Sam James, who appeared on Season 3 of The Voice, will headline Worcester’s annual Festival of Lights this year. There will also be a performance by the cast of the Hanover Theatre’s A Christmas Carol, children’s choral performances, a demonstration by the Northstar figure skaters, horse-drawn wagon rides, performances by the combined choruses of Goddard and Quinsigamond schools, the Quadrivium Ensemble from Burncoat High School, the Doherty Madrigal and Worcester’s first food truck rodeo. The tree lighting will be at 6:45 p.m., followed by visits with Santa on the plaza. The Oval will be open for free skating at 5:30 p.m. Skate rentals are $3. thepulsemag.com
7
Photo courtesy of Worcester Historical Museum, www.worcesterhistory.org.
Worcester JCC Hanukkah Concert
First Night Worcester
Sunday, Dec. 11; 3-5 p.m. Worcester JCC 633 Salisbury St., Worcester Free www.worcesterjcc.org
Saturday, Dec. 31 Various locations in Worcester 35th anniversary commemorative button is $35 Buttons are $10 before Dec. 25, $12 after Dec. 25, $15 at the door, kids 7 and younger are free www.firstnightworcester.org
A wonderful holiday concert everyone can enjoy! Free and open to the public, the Worcester JCC will host a Hanukkah Concert featuring Hankus Netsky and The Hebrew National Salvage Project presenting “Lost and Found: Jewish Musical Treasures.” The program includes Hassidic melodies, klezmer dance tunes, Yiddish folksong, pieces from the Yiddish theater and other Hanukkah classics. The ensemble includes pianist and arranger Hankus Netsky, vocalist and actress Miryem-Khaye Seigel, bassist Kirsten Lamb and percussionist Grant Smith. Hebrew National Salvage is known for its active role in rescuing extraordinary Jewish musical treasures that have been otherwise neglected, discarded or overlooked and using them as a point of departure for compelling traditional and contemporary musical presentations. Their members have been major activists in the revival of Eastern European Jewish musical culture. To RSVP, call or email Nancy Greenberg at (508) 756-7109 x232 or ngreenberg@worcesterjcc.org.
First Night Worcester will celebrate its 35th anniversary New Year’s Eve. In addition to a robust line-up of nearly 80 First Night performances, there will be many activities around town to take advantage of, all free with a First Night button, including fireworks, skating on the Oval and the Kids Zone. Jillian’s Worcester will once again host a free pasta bar for First Night attendees as well as giving out free $10 gift cards to use in its game room. Other activities include open houses at the Joy of Music Program and the Worcester JCC. As in years past, a First Night button grants free access to the area’s leading cultural centers. Museum partners include the EcoTarium, Museum of Russian Icons, Old Sturbridge Village, Salisbury Mansion, Worcester Art Museum and the Worcester Historical Museum.
8
December 2016
For the second consecutive year, First Night will have a free Apple mobile app to provide easy access to the event schedule with links to venues, performers, activities, sponsors and maps.
More Holiday Events Nov. 25-Dec. 11* Stowe Farm’s Christmas Fun Stowe Farm, Millbury www.stowefarm.com
Nov. 25-Jan. 8* Winter Reimagined Tower Hill Botanic Garden, Boylston www.towerhillbg.org
Nov. 26-Dec 11* Sorry Wrong Chimney Stageloft Repertory Theater, Fiskdale www.stageloft.org
Dec. 1-4 Festival of Giving Trees LaSalle Reception Center at Notre Dame Chuch, Southbridge www.sparklingtrees.com
Dec. 2 Holiday One-Acts Festival Gateway Players Theatre Arts Barn, Southbridge gatewayplayers.org
Dec. 2-23* Christmas by Candlelight Old Sturbridge Village, Sturbridge www.osv.org
Dec. 2-30* Candlelight Tours At Home for the Holidays Salisbury Mansion 40 Highland St., Worcester www.worcesterhistory.net
Dec. 3 Handel’s Messiah Mechanics Hall, Worcester www.musicworcester.org
Dec. 3-11* Holiday Open House & Living Gift Market Heifer International Learning Center at Overlook Farm, Rutland www.heifer.org A Christmas Journey
Photo courtesy of “Denholms – The Story of Worcester’s Premiere Department Store,” by Chris Sawyer.
EcoTarium, Worcester www.ecotarium.org
thepulsemag.com
9
& even More Holiday Events Dec. 4 Holiday Shopping Boutique Worcester JCC, Worcester www.worcesterjcc.org stART at the Station Grand Hall at Union Station, Worcester www.startonthestreet.org
Dec. 9 Boston Pops Holiday Concert Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts, Worcester www.thehanovertheatre.org
Dec. 10 Yule Time Wizard Market Higgins Building, Worcester www.newizardschool.com Princeton Arts Society’s Show & Holiday Marketplace Princeton Center Building, Princeton www.princetonarts.org Children’s Holiday Party Worcester Public Library, Worcester www.mywpl.org Holiday Pops Concert Mechanics Hall, Worcester www.masymphony.org
Dec. 11 The Nutcracker Mechanics Hall, Worcester www.mechanicshall.org Holiday Concert Worcester Art Museum, Worcester www.worcesterart.org
Dec. 17 A Christmas Carol Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts, Worcester www.thehanovertheatre.org
Dec. 20 A Christmas Celtic Sojurn with Brian O’Donovan Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts, Worcester www.thehanovertheatre.org * Check website for specific dates and times.
10
December 2016
thepulsemag.com
11
entertainment By Kendall Korengold At 13, Dave Vaccaro was learning guitar on a “piece of junk”; Mike McDonald was experiencing his musical awakening at the YMCA; and Mike BanGrazi was learning from his father, a professional musician. Now, the three are Neon Alley. Neon Alley’s name signifies the energy and electricity of the band. Every city or town has a Neon Alley – an energy and atmosphere that creates a sudden vibe. A stable on the Boston music scene in the ’80s, Vaccaro made the decision to spend more time in the studio than the stage to give him time to spend with his family. But five years ago, Vaccaro decided he wanted to play in a live band again. He contacted an old friend, Mike McDonald, a Winchendon native who spent a couple of years at Berklee College of Music, and the two started to audition drummers in the Worcester area. Scott Marion came on board as the drummer, and Neon Alley hit the clubs. BanGrazi filled the spot as drummer three years ago after Marion called it quits. BanGrazi was performing at a festival when he ran into a mutual friend of his and McDonald’s. While BanGrazi had been trying to reach out to Neon Alley, the friend helped him out and brought the band together. He auditioned for the spot as drummer and got them their first gig two days later. When BanGrazi replaced Marion, Neon Alley’s sound changed, with BanGrazi’s addition of jazz accents with percussion. Now, the band is out with a self-titled album that took three years to make. Songwriter Vaccaro outlined the album in a rough draft and wrote most of the songs at practice. The band wanted the album to sound raw – not over produced or sterilized. After the band got enough original songs, they put basic tracks down to record. McDonald added his songwriting skills to the album with “Piece of the Pie.” But what the members of Neon Alley really love are their fans. Marketing and getting the word out on social media is a lot of work, they said. But they said they appreciate it when fans show their support for live music. “The audience is the music scene. If there is no audience, it is a paid rehearsal. When they come out and they play in the clubs and they are listening and playing with the band – that creates a vibe,” Vaccaro said. McDonald said the band loves playing new places and clubs and “appreciates positive crowd reactions.” The band agrees that Central Massachusetts has a very friendly atmosphere. McDonald enjoys meeting new people and potential new fans in Central Mass. Vaccaro said there is a “fair amount of acceptance of straight-ahead rock in Central Mass.” As for the future? Neon Alley is always evolving and would be like to add one more musician to the band – a keyboardist or extra guitarist, for example. But the members of Neon Alley agree: It has to be just the right person. “Practice, practice, practice,” is McDonald’s advice to aspiring musicians. Vaccaro also advised, going out and learning from other bands and acquiring mentors. But it’s really all about the rhythm, Vaccaro added. “The musician always needs to remember that it’s all about the rhythm of the song, and if it doesn’t have that, it doesn’t have a point.” Keep up with Neon Alley’s tour dates. Visit facebook.com/NeonAlley.
12
December 2016
pulsebooks:
Eat, drink and be merry
By Kimberly Dunbar
December is the best month of the year – unless you’re trying to eat healthfully. Delicious food can be good for you, and butter is your friend – at least that’s what Olympic runner Shalane Flanagan and Chef Elyse Kopecky say in their new book, Run Fast Eat Slow (Rodale Books). Whether you’re a serious athlete like four-time Olympian Flanagan or an amateur runner like Kopecky, each recipe in this book is expertly crafted to make sure runners – and average athletes – get the nourishment and nutrients their bodies need to succeed and recover. Each ingredient – including butter – is used with purpose, as the authors rely on the natural flavors and vitamins of real, fresh food to stay healthy. Flanagan and Kopecky include a look into their pantries, which are stocked with the basic ingredients needed to complete the recipes, along with an explanation as to why each ingredient is important. My favorite part of the book is the last chapter, “Runner’s Remedies.” As previously mentioned, the women use each ingredient as a means to nurture the body, so head to this chapter if you’re suffering an ailment and find a list of recipes to help you heal. Suffering from burnout or stress? Try the bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken, sweet potato fries or double-chocolate Teff cookies (see, bacon does make everything better!). According to the authors, most athletes don’t look in the kitchen when struggling with ailments, but it should be the first place they look; nourishing food can be a runner’s first line of defense for preventing and overcoming common aches and pains. For those who want to add some class to the holidays by drinking wine rather than guzzling eggnog, but don’t know the first thing about wine etiquette, Jamie Goode’s latest book I Taste Red (University of California Press) is a must-read. Goode’s book is a very in-depth analysis on how wine tasting works, exploring how our sensory system, psychology, philosophy and flavor chemistry all play a central part in our perception and enjoyment of wine. Though at times I felt the book was a little too scientific, it helped me understand more of what to look, smell and taste for when drinking wine. When my boyfriend and I went on our first date, I remember teasing him for the way he tasted his wine (carefully selected to complement his dinner) – sniff, swirl, sip, swallow – all done with purpose. I sipped my wine, which totally didn’t match the food I ordered, slowly, rather than gulping it down like I usually did, so he didn’t think I was a complete loser. That night was not just the beginning of our great relationship, but my newfound love for good wine and winetasting. While I have since learned that sniff-swirl-sip-swallow is a great way to experience wine, Goode’s book gave an explanation as to why – because there are many different sensory and psychological factors that shape our experience of tasting wine. Note to readers – make sure you have a bottle of red on hand; this book will make you thirsty.
thepulsemag.com
13
Events happening around Central Massachusetts in December 2016
1. The Nutcracker Treat yourself to a magical experience that summons joy and raises your holiday spirit. Whether continuing a cherished tradition or discovering the wonder of this holiday classic for the first time, Dance Prism’s The Nutcracker is sure to leave you with a sense of enchantment and treasured memories that will last a lifetime. 1 and 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11; Mechanics Hall, 321 Main St., Worcester; $20-$26; mechanicshall.org.
2. Kinky Boots Cindy Lauper’s Kinky Boots celebrates the friendships we discover and the belief that you can change the world when you change your mind. Inspired by a true story, Kinky Boots tells the story of a Charlie Price, the owner of a men’s shoe factory; a drag queen named Lola; and some high-heeled boots that take Charlie from Northampton, England, to the catwalks of Milan. Various times, Nov. 30-Dec. 4; Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester; $49-$79; thehanovertheatre.org.
3. Winter Reimagined Experience the wonder that is Winter Reimagined at Tower Hill Botanic Gardens. The annual fundraiser ups its game every year, so if you’ve seen it before, you still haven’t seen it. Enjoy the glimmering light displays, gaze at the decorated trees, stop by the fire pits, or perhaps listen to live music while your child goes on a scavenger hunt. Nov. 25-Jan 8; Tower Hill Botanic Garden, 11 French Drive, Boylston; $7-$12, free for members and children 5 and younger; towerhillbg.org.
4. Toys for Tots Bring some joy to others this holiday seasons by participating in the Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots Program. There are many ways to provide hope and happiness to children in need – donate a new, unwrapped toy; become a drop location; make a monetary donation; host an event to benefit the organization; or even volunteer. Last day for donations is Dec. 16; for drop sites or ways to get involved, visit worcester-ma.toysfortots.org.
14
December 2016
gameon: Batman gets the Telltale treatment
By Jason Savio
Have you ever watched a Batman movie or read a Batman comic, where he just gets on your nerves and says or does the opposite of what you want? For example, instead of trying to be middle-of-the-road and play it safe, it would be much more satisfying if he would get his badass on and really sock it to everyone for once. Sure, there have been iterations of the character that have done so (Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight Returns comic series being the most popular), but for the most part, Batman has been the cool and quiet type. Let’s see him take on his inner dark side for a change! With Telltale Games’ new episodic game series, simply titled Batman: The Telltale Series, you finally get your chance to control what Batman/Bruce Wayne says and does, thanks to the developer’s popular choice-driven gameplay. Batman Episode One: Realm of Shadows starts off in true comic book style, complete with an intense heist and ensuing rooftop battle between our hero and Catwoman. The seductive thief, of course, is after something important, causing a domino effect of events that involve all your favorite Batman characters. Harvey Dent (a.k.a. Two-Face) is prominent, as he runs for mayor with the help and support of his friend Bruce Wayne, while crime boss Carmine Falcone rears his ugly head and stirs up trouble for both of them, bringing to light a chapter in Bruce’s family history that not even the Dark Knight saw coming. Most of this is paint-by-the-numbers Batman storylines that have been used before, but things get more interesting with the introduction of Oswald Cobblepot, better known as The Penguin. Instead of being the stout and chubby fella with the never-ending nose, this version of Cobblepot is younger and more realistic. What’s more, he and Bruce have a history together as childhood friends, one that is strongly built off of each’s tragic loss of his parents. A lot of time has passed since they last saw one another, though, and their initial encounter is somewhat shady, as Oswald declares his allegiance to a revolution against Gotham’s corruption that may have devastating consequences. Bruce warns him to make sure he’s on the “right side” when push comes to shove. But the best part about Batman: The Telltale Series, at least from the experience of playing Episode One, is the way in which Bruce Wayne/Batman interacts with others is totally up to you. If you want him to remain secretive and diligent, you can. However, if you would rather have him tell off another character or be more confrontational, you can do that, too. All your decisions will ultimately impact how the story unfolds, which also makes the game playable more than just once. Some of the familiar tropes of a Batman game are present, such as a detective mode you can use when studying a crime scene, but this version of Batman leans more in the direction of storytelling rather than fighting, and that is something many longtime comic book fans will appreciate. It’s surely a departure from the Arkham series, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. For more, visit telltale.com/series/batman.
thepulsemag.com
15
JoJo / Mad Love By Mike Wood
I can see all the gossipy, begging-for-attention headlines now: "Former teen pop star releases her first album in 10 – count ’em, 10 – years.” But then I must add: And it’s amazing! Mad Love is what you call a true, knock-’em-dead comeback, folks. You might remember JoJo as the teenage songstress plucked from the obscurity of our suburbs (Foxboro) some 20 years ago. But the gifted singer-songwriter is back, and she’s never been better. The album opens simply, just her superlative pop voice and a piano. That’s it. Nothing else is needed. And the opener, “Music,” is a true love letter to the art form. This sentiment in itself is long overdue for the long-suffering artist. (A little history here: JoJo was stuck in a contentious recording contract with her former label for more than a decade.) Now, she’s made good on her musical gifts, ensuring that Mad Love is personal, eclectic and true to her talents. She’s not 13 anymore – and now she has the life experience to back up her lyrics. She released the album’s lead single “F**k Apologies” (featuring Wiz Khalifa) in July, and this unapologetic empowerment anthem kicked JoJo’s comeback session into full gear. Rapper Remy Ma comes in on “FAB,” and the duo makes magic with a hypnotic beat and fiery lyrics that take no prisoners, affirming that JoJo has finally arrived as a full-fledged artist of her own making who has something she wants to say. There are self-affirming pop anthems like “I Am” and “Rise Up” that speak to a softer side, but make no mistake, JoJo’s not soft – just well-rounded. The dance-ready “Vibe” is just ready to be remixed, and while it might feel disjointed from its preceding tracks, JoJo has the reins on this album, and her vocal talents keep every song feeling like it couldn’t – it shouldn’t – exist without the entirely distinct songs that surround it. For more information, visit iamjojoofficial.com.
16
December 2016
Phish / Big Boat
MercyMe / It’s Christmas
By Jason Savio
By Jennifer Russo
It has always been tricky trying to describe the music of Phish – is it rock, bluegrass, funk, spacey shoegaze or something else completely? Most of the time they will be lumped in as a jam band, but to do so is to diminish their music. Simply put, Phish is Phish – a unique blend of whatever they are feeling, and their newest effort Big Boat is the perfect encapsulation of this.
Though contemporary Christian music is not for everyone, many people like to listen to Christmas carols at this time of year. MercyMe, a Christian band from Texas that has been around for more than 20 years, has always been a favorite of mine, mostly due to the beautifully smooth vocal range of Bart Millard, the lead singer since the band’s inception. Late last year, the band released a Christmas album, which has become a standard for me at this time of year. When decorating the house, sipping a cup of cocoa by the fire or wrapping presents, this is my go-to album, and it’s easy to see why.
Big Boat quite possibly consists of the largest number of musicians to ever take part on a Phish record (14 in total, not counting the core four). These additional musicians help bring a vibrant energy to the foundation Trey Anastasio and company lay down, with horns galore and flourishing touches of life. As such, Big Boat sounds like the most fully realized and complete Phish album to date. “Blaze On” has a reggae strut with Phish’s trademark good vibes, while “Tide Turns” is soulful and radiofriendly. It wouldn’t be a Phish album without some quirks and oddities, and the disco-infused dance of “I Always Wanted it This Way” covers that. The final track, “Petrichor,” with arrangement and orchestration credited solely to Anastasio, is Phish at its absolute best – putting together a complex weave of different melodies and rhythms to deliver a memorable and sophisticated number. For any weary, longtime Phish followers out there questioning the band’s current dedication, this is the beacon of hope you’ve been seeking. For more information, visit phish.com.
The album boasts 11 songs, mostly Christmas standards such as “Have a Holly Jolly Christmas” and “Joy to the World,” but the arrangements are definitely the group’s own, with a jazzy flair and, sometimes, changing of tempos. Some songs, like “Newborn,” are a mashup of several well-known songs and original lyrics. One of my favorite Christmas songs has always been “Do You Hear What I Hear?” and to my satisfaction, this is included, and they don’t mess with it too much. Some songs should just be what they are, and I am glad they were able to do this with this beautiful classic. On this album, though, the song that makes me hit the repeat button most is “I’ll be Home for Christmas,” which always makes me smile with its easy-going instrumental. If you’re ready to pop in the Christmas songs, this is an album I would highly recommend. It has a little bit of every style embedded in it – classic, rock, folk, country and pop. Either way, it inspires holiday shopping and makes me want to bake cookies. For more information, visit mercyme.org.
thepulsemag.com
17
Club+Pub+GRUB Listings
Entertainment at clubs, bars, pubs & other select venues 435 Bar & Grill 435 Lancaster St., Leominster
978-425-4311, 877-536-7190 bullrunrestaurant.com
American Graffiti 113 Summer St., Lunenburg 978-345-1010
Cafe Destare 320 Main St., Fitchburg 978-345-5734 destare.com
B-Man’s 140 Tavern 348 Redemption Rock Trail, Sterling 978-422-9763 140pub.com The Banner Bar & Grille 112 Green St., Worc. 508-755-0879 thebannerbar.com Wednesdays: Trivia Night Fridays, Saturdays: DJs Barber’s Crossing Road House 861 Main St., Leicester 508-892-7575 barberscrossingrestaurant.com 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 Tuesdays: Chillin’ Tuesday Wednesdays: Wild Wednesdays Beemer’s Pub & Grill 310 Main St., Fitchburg 978-348-2100 beemerspub.com Billy’s Pub 81 Clinton St., Shrewsbury 508-425-3353 Black Sheep Tavern 261 Leominster Road, Sterling 978-422-8484 blacksheeptavernsterline.com Blackstone Tap 81 Water St., Worc. 508-797-4827 blackstonetap.com Blue Plate Lounge 661 Main St., Holden 508-829-4566 Dec. 4: Sunday Jam with Ravin Blue Dec. 11: Sunday Jam with Trigger Blueprint New American Bar & Grill 9 Village Square, Westminster 978-668-5580 Bolton Street Tavern 587 Bolton St., Marlborough 508-485-4416 boltonstreettavern.com Boulder Cafe 880 Main St., Fitchburg 978-345-0008 Breakaway Billiards 104 Sterling St., Clinton 978-365-6105 Brew City 104 Shrewsbury St., Worc. 508-752-3862 brew-city.com Bull Run Restaurant 215 Great Road, Shirley
18
October 2016
Canal Restaurant & Bar 65 Water St., Worc. 508-926-8353 Fridays, Saturdays: DJ (21+) Dec. 3: Mychael David & Howie Swett Dec. 9: Round Midnight, Soulful Jazz And Blues Dec. 10: New England Weather, Talented Duo. Dec. 16: Jim Perry & Lisa Marie Dec. 17: Brett & Lisa Brumby Dec. 23: Amanda Cote Dec. 30: Live Music Chopstick’s Restaurant & Lounge 21 Commercial Road, Leominster 978-534-0020 chopsticksleominster.com Christopher’s Pub 7 Pleasant St., Leominster 978-534-8250 Cicero’s Cafe 17 Suffolk St., Worc. 508-767-9728 Classic’s Pub 285 Central St., Leominster 978-537-7750 classicspub.net Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays: Karaoke Dec. 3: Backseat Zero Dec. 10: Union Outlaw Dec. 17: Garage Boys Dec. 31: Laquerhead Club KasBar 234 Southwest Cutoff, Worc. 508-798-8385 Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays: Karaoke The Columbia Tavern 28 Manning Ave., Leominster 978-751-8962 Compass Tavern 90 Harding St., Worc. 508-304-6044 thecompasstavern.com Fridays, Saturdays: DJs Dec. 9: Hit the Bus Dec. 16: Ken Macy Dec. 23: April’s Fools Dec. 30: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell Cosmopolitan Club 96 Hamilton St., Worc. 508-752-0482 The Cove Music Hall 89 Green St., Worc. 508-363-1888 thecovemusichall.com Dec. 3: The Supersuckers, Jesse Dayton & Gallows Bound Dec. 8: Subterra: Kid Prophecy Dec. 9: Ground Pu55y Control (David Bowie and Prince tribute) Dec. 10: Matt Maratea Dec. 15: Subterra: Jackie Treehorn Dec. 16: Dimebag Darrell Memorial Show with Trendkill Dec. 17: The Britwits Dec. 22: Subterra: Xmas Ladies on Decks
Dec. 23: The Nytro before Christmas Dec. 29: Subterra :Drum & Bass for your Face Dec. 30: Americano (Brian Setzer/Stray Cats tribute) & The Hangovers Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve w/ Kobra Kai & Tester Dance Ranch & Saloon 70 James St., Worc. 508-757-6977 danceranchandsaloon.com Days End Tavern 287 Main St., Oxford 508-987-1006 daysendtavern.com Devens Grill 4 Ryans Way, Devens 978-862-0060 devensgrill.com Electric Haze 26 Millbury St, Worc. 508-799-0629 Dec. 31: The Flock’s New Year’s Eve Bash Fiddlers’ Green Pub & Restaurant 19 Temple St., Worc. 508-792-3700 aohworcester.com Dec. 23, 23: Murph’s Comedy Joint presents Re-entering Worcester Firefly’s / Dante’s 350 E. Main St., Marlborough 508-357-8883 fireflysbbq.com Flip Flops 680 Main St., Holden 508-829-3008 flipflopsma.com Flying Rhino Cafe 278 Shrewsbury St., Worc. 508-757-1450 flyingrhinocafe.com Frank’s 274 Shrewsbury St., Worc. 774-420-2253 Dec. 3: Bob Whitlock Dec. 4: Right Angle Woman Dec. 9: Sam James Dec. 10: Dezi Garcia Dec. 11: Soup Dec. 16: David Ashman Dec. 30: Dezi Garcia Funky Murphy’s Bar & Grill 305 Shrewsbury St., Worc. 508-753-2995 funkyandjosemurphys.com Gardner Ale House 74 Parker St., Gardner 978-669-0122 gardnerale.com Mondays: Blue Mondays Thursdays: Audio Wasabi Fridays, Saturdays: Live music The GazBar Sports Grill 1045 Central St., Leominster thegazbar.com Dec. 23: Dan Kirouac GD Lounge Union Station, 2 Washington Square, Worc. (508) 755-6555 facebook.com/GDloungeandtapas Greendale’s Pub 404 W. Boylston St., Worc. 508-853-1350
greendalespub.com Tuesdays: Open Mic with Bill McCarthy; Local Musicians Showcase Dec. 3: Jack Rabbit Slim Dec. 4: The Sunday Jam SHIKIBOO Dec. 9: Auntie Trainwreck Dec. 10: Clam Digger Dec. 11: The Sunday Jam with Tony Soul Dec. 16: Small Town Dec. 17: 9Teen Dec. 23: Silverbacks Halligan’s Sports Bar and More 889 Southbridge St., Auburn 508-832-6793 halliganssportsbarandmore.com Happy Jack’s 785 North Main St., Leominster 978-466-3433 Dec. 3: Ken Macy Dec. 9: Dave Harrington Dec. 9: Dave Malouin Dec. 10: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell Dec. 16: Cailte Kelley Dec. 17: Zack Slik Dec. 23: City Boys Dec. 30: Dave Malouin Dec. 31: Sean Fullerton Hotel Vernon - The Ship Room/Kelley Square Yacht Club 1 Millbury St., Worc. Indian Ranch 200 Gore Road, Webster 508-943-3871 indianranch.com Industry Bar Room 109 Water St., Worc. 508-756-2100 industrybarroom.com Ixtapa Cantina 308 Massachusetts Ave., Lunenburg 978-582-9701 ixtapacantina2.com JC Fenwick’s 37 Mechanic St., Leominster 978-840-4845 Jillian’s - Worcester 315 Grove St., Worc. 508-793-0900 jilliansworcester.com Sundays: Sunday Game Night (Pictionary) Dec. 3: Key Performance Dec. 9: Key Performance Dec. 10: UFC 206 Cormier vs Johnson Dec. 16: Lateral Edge Dec. 17: Synergy Dec. 30: UFC 207 Nunes vs Rousey Dec. 31: First Night Worcester New Year’s Eve Party JJ’s Sports Bar and Grill 380 Southwest Cutoff, Northborough 508-842-8420 jbag.biz Dec. 9: Custard Pie Dec. 10: Dirty Deeds Dec. 16: Shady Armadillo Dec. 17: Windfall Dec. 23: The Flock Legends Airport Road, Fitchburg 978-342-6500 Leitrim’s Pub 265 Park Ave., Worc. 508-798-2447 Continued on Page 21
thepulesmag.com
19
20
December 2016
Continued from Page 18 leitrimspub.com Loft 266 Bar & Lounge 266 Park Ave., Worc. 508-796-5177 loft266.com Dec. 3: Ricky Duran London Billiards / Club Oasis 70 James St., Worc. 508-799-7655 londonbilliards.com Mahoney’s Pub 413 Park Ave., Worc. 508-277-1073 Marty’s Pub 225 Cantebury St., Worc. 508-754-0033 martyspub.com MB Lounge 40 Grafton St., Worc. 508-799-4521 mblounge.com Wednesdays: Karaoke Thursdays: Thumpin’ College Thursdays McNally’s Grille & Pub 88 Sargent Road, Westminster 978-874-1444 mcnallysgrille.com Michael’s Cigar Bar 1 Exchange Place, Worc. 508-459-9035 michaelscigar.com Dec. 3: Tequila Bonfire Dec. 4: Blue Light Bandits Dec. 7: Brett Brumby Dec. 8: Mike Melendez Dec. 9: HooDoo Revelator Dec. 10: Hit the Bus Dec. 15: Allston Police Dec. 17: Doctor Robert Dec. 18: Blue Light Bandits Dec. 21: Chris McDermott Dec. 22: Jim Devlin Dec. 28: Mike Melendez Dec. 29: Allston Police Dec. 30: Jim Devlin Band Dec. 31: Flat Five Mickey Sheas 324 Electric Ave., Lunenburg 978-342-5825 The Mill 185 185 W. Boylston St., W. Boylston 774-261-8585 themill185.com Dec. 3: Kelly & Tribe Dec. 8: Amanda Cote Dec. 9: Jay Graham Dec. 10: Chad Clements Dec. 15: Ashley Jordan Dec. 16: Josh Briggs Dec. 17: Katie Obrien Duo Dec. 22: Bill McCarthy Dec. 23: Chris Reddy - Acoustic Christmas Dec. 29: Sean Ryan Dec. 30: Jodee & Brian Mill Street Brews (@ The Artist Development Complex) 18 Mill St., Southbridge 508-764-6900 millstreetbrews.com Moynihan’s Pub 897 Main St., Worc. The Muse 536 Main St., Worc. 508-756-6873 Nick’s Bar and Restaurant 124 Millbury St., Worc. 508-753-4030 Fridays: Thank Friday It’s Dr. Nat Dec. 10: We & the Dawg The Nines Neighborhood Bar 136 Millbury St., Worc. 508-340-0318 Oak Barrel Tavern
229 Grove Ave., Worc. 508-755-8047 oakbarreltavernworcester.com
Rocky’s 139 Water St., Worc. Dec. 10: Babe Pino Band
Olde Post Office Pub 1 Ray St., N. Grafton 508-839-6106
Rumors 371 Park Ave., Worc. 508-755-5542 clubuniverseworcester.com
On The Rocks Sports Bar & Grill 96 Lakefront Ave., Lunenburg 978-342-6692 Oxford Tavern 314 Main St., Oxford 508-987-5397 Padavano’s Place 358 Shrewsbury St., Worc. 774-823-3022 padavanosplace.com Paisanos Pizza & Spirits 450 Lancaster St., Leominster 978-534-7117 The Palladium 261 Main St., Worc. 508-797-9696 thepalladium.net Park Grill and Spirits 257 Park Ave., Worc. Fridays, Saturdays: Dick’s Beantown Comedy Escape Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve Dick’s Beantown Comedy Escape Partner’s Pub 970 South St., Fitchburg 978-345-5051 partnerspub.com Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays: Karaoke Dec. 3: Sean Daley Dec. 10: Lost Artifacts Dec. 17: The Quarry Dec. 31: The Ben Cote Band Patsie Dugan’s 49 Millbury St., Worc. 508-755-4155 patsiedugans.com Pho Dakao 593 Park Ave., Worc. 508-756-7555 The Pint 58 Shrewsbury St., Worc. 508-414-1314 Point Breeze On the Lake 114 Point Breeze Road, Webster 508-943-0404 pointbreezeonwebsterlake.com Press Box 536 Lincoln St., Worc. 508-856-9255 Quinn’s Irish Pub 715 W. Boylston St., Worc. 508-459-2025 quinnsirishpub.com Dec. 4: John Brazile Dec. 8: John Brazile Dec. 10: Mike Melendez Dec. 15: Chris Reddy Dec. 21: Mike Melendez Dec. 22: John Brazile Dec. 23: Terry Brennan
Rye & Thyme 14 Monument Square, Leominster 978-534-5900 ryeandthyme.com Dec. 3: Dan Cormier & Ethan Caouette Dec. 4: Brunch with Zack Slik Dec. 8: Sean Fullerton Dec. 9: Brian Chaffee Dec. 10: Danielle Lessard Dec. 11: Santa Brunch Dec. 15: Jay Graham Dec. 16: Zack Slik Dec. 17: Brian Chaffee’s Beatles Tribute Dec. 22: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell Dec. 23: Brian Chaffee Dec. 29: Chris McDermott Dec. 30: L & M Rythym Kings Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve with Andy Cummings & Swingabilly Lounge Sakura Tokyo 640 Park Ave., Worc. 508-792-1078, 508-792-1068 sakura-tokyo.com Sean Patrick’s Family Restaurant 494 Electric Ave., Lunenburg 888-824-3924, 978-345-2000 seanpatricksrestaurant.com South Side Grille & Margarita Factory 242 W. Broadway, Gardner 978-632-1057 southsidemargaritafactory.com Dec. 3: Whitney Doucette Dec. 9: Topher Brew Dec. 10: Backseat Zero Dec. 16: Chris Reddy Acosutic Loops from Hell Dec. 17: Caves on Mars Dec. 23: Kevin Shields Dec. 30: Zack Slik Dec. 31: The Fabulous Dinosaurs Speakers Night Club 19 Weed St., Marlborough 508-480-8222 speakersnightclub.net Saturdays: Live bands Specialty Sandwich Co. 624 Main St., Holden 508-829-4848 specialtysandwich.com Dec. 9: Chris Reddy Spruce Street Tavern 68 Spruce St., Clinton 978-368-1255 sprucestreettavern.com Stagecoach Inn and Tavern 128 Main St., Groton 978-448-5614, 877-782-4346
grotonstagecoachinn.com Sunset Tiki Bar/The Outlook 79 Powers Road, Westford 978-692-5700 The Tavern on Central 3 Central St., Ashburnham 978-827-1272 thetavernoncentral.com Three G’s Sports Bar 152 Millbury St., Worc. 508-754-3516 3gs-sportsbar.com Fridays: Karaoke with DJ Mike Union Tavern 65 Green St., Worc. Upper Deck Sports Bar & Grille 377 Stetson Road, Barre 978-355-2224 upperdecksportsbarandgrille.com Victory Bar & Cigar 56 Shrewsbury St., Worc. 508-756-4747 victorycigarbar.com Vincent’s Bar 49 Suffolk St., Worc. 508-752-9439 Tuesdays: Boogie Chillin’ Dec. 12: Hip Swayers Deluxe Whiskey Hookah Lounge 316 Main St., Worc. Whiskey on Water 97 Water St., Worc. 774-578-8829 whiskeyonwater.com Wednesdays: Karaoke Thursdays: DJ Cuzn Kev Fridays, Saturdays: DJ Tec Threat Dec. 3: The Jimmy Connor Band Dec. 9: Backyard Swagger Dec. 10: The Flat 5 Dec. 16: Brian Chaffee Dec. 17: Radio Honey Dec. 30: The Royal Furs Whistle Stop Bar & Grill 85 Main St., Oxford 508-987-3087 StopByTheWhistle.com White Eagle Polish Club 112 Green St., Worc. 774-245-1991 William’s Restaurant & Tavern 184 Pearson Blvd., Gardner 978-632-7794 williamsrestaurantandtavern.com Wonder Bar Restaurant 121 Shrewsbury St., Worc. Ye Olde Tavern 7 E. Main St., W. Brookfield 508-867-9709, 508-867-4139 westbrookfieldtavern.com
Ralph’s Chadwick Square Diner 148 Grove St., Worc. 508-753-9543 ralphsrockdiner.com Mondays: Dirty Gerund Poetry Show Dec. 8: Unmercyful, Headrot, Solium Fatalis, & Plea Of Insanity Dec. 29: The Scimitar, Birnam Wood, Ice Tomb, & Benthic Realm The Raven 258 Pleasant St., Worc. 508-304-8133 Wednesdays: Open Mic Red Onion - Otter River Hotel 29 Main St., Baldwinville 978-939-7373, 978-939-8321
thepulsemag.com
21
brew city – worcester
By Justin perry
whiskey on water – worcester
the pint – worcester
flying rhino café – WORCESTER
22
December 2016
the mill 185 – west boylston
rye & thyme – leominster
compass tavern – worcester
michael's cigar bar – worcester
thepulsemag.com
23
lifestyle
The Holiday Gift Guide Gifts for him
Gifts for her
Looking for great gifts for a man in your life? Whether you’re shopping for a father, a brother or a significant other, these are sure to please.
Not sure what to gift the women in your life? We have great ideas for everyone, from the health nut to the Star Wars fan!
Karaoke Rock-On Roller
D’Eco Water Infuser
By Merilee Kern
Lights, music, action! The Karaoke Rock-On Roller is an all-in-one karaoke system packed full of features he’ll love, including a rotating 10-inch LCD screen and a multi-format disc player. This killer karaoke system is also Bluetooth enabled to stream karaoke tracks straight from the Internet with either a tablet or smartphone. Or use the FM tuner, so folks can perform the latest hits right from the radio. Let the good times roll! $299, vocopro.com.
Premium Mixology Case from The Spice Lab This unexpected gift offered by The Spice Lab, the exclusive U.S. importer of Special Touch Botanicals for premium cocktail gift sets, is perfect for the home mixologist. This elegant suitcase-fashioned gift box includes an array of hard-tofind botanicals that’ll amp up any elixir and allow him to create unique recipes all his own. The sweet and savory gift set includes twelve botanicals: Juniper Berries, Cardamom, Mace, Star Anise, Kumquat Peel, Hibiscus Flower, Malva Flower, Persian Roses, Cassia Cinnamon, Allspice, Giant Coffee Beans and Cocoa Seeds. It also comes complete with a full set of professional bar tools, including a citrus zester, jigger, infuser and twisted spoon for professional cocktail making. The handsome package is rounded out with a deck of 20 botanical cards proffering drink recipes and recommendations. $200, thespicelab.com.
Rachio Smartphone Sprinkler Let him take control of watering from the comfort of his home with Rachio, the smart sprinkler controller that will allow him to manage sprinklers and the watering bill right from his smartphone! The Rachio changes the way people water, since it makes running sprinklers easy and convenient while saving on water usage and money. Rachio automatically creates a customized watering schedule using local forecasts, soil and plant types, sun exposure and more, keeping water conservation and landscaping health in mind. It’ll help keep the yard lush and green all year long. Go ahead; make his neighbors green with envy. $249.99, rachio.com.
Lee Kum Kee’s Sriracha BBQ Sauce Lee Kum Kee has launched a new product this year that’s absolutely perfect for any barbecue feast – Sriracha Barbecue Sauce! This is a spicy twist on the classic barbecue sauce because it combines paprika, mustard seeds and chili peppers. It’s a great balance of smoky, sweet and spicy. It’s great as a pre-made marinade or as a condiment to elevate a burger! $3.99, amazon.com. The Luxe List Executive Editor Merilee Kern scours the luxury marketplace for exemplary travel experiences, extraordinary events and notable products and services. Submissions are accepted at TheLuxeList.com. Follow her on Twitter @LuxeListEditor and Facebook at TheLuxeList.
24
December 2016
By Kendall Korengold
In order to create naturally flavored water, simply fill the water infuser with fruits and the ingredients of your choice and put it inside the water bottle. In addition to it being preservative-free, it supports the environment. D’Eco Water Infuser is non-toxic and made out of food-grade silicone. $16.99, decohousewares.com.
Good Salad Shredder The Good Salad Shredder allows you to slice, shred, grate or grind in one machine. With five cone attachments ideal for slicing and dicing, the machine has one large button for easy operation. Even better, the salad shredder is simple to clean and dishwasher safe. $59.99, mygoodcooking.com.
Best Name Necklace Offering personalized name necklaces, custom jewelry and monograms, Best Name Necklace is the perfect accessory to compliment any outfit! Design a gift to loved ones with various unique designs that range from cross monogram pendants, birth-stoned embellishments, state-shaped designs, boho bar necklaces, etc. Offered in silver, yellow gold and rose gold, each necklace is designed the way you want it! Prices vary by design, bestnamenecklace.com.
Star Wars Shakers These ceramic Star Wars salt and pepper shakers will make an ideal gift for the family Star Wars fanatic. With precise droid detailing and a removable cork for refilling salt and pepper, these shakers are a perfect holiday gift! $19.99, amazon.com.
Green Goo Green Goo travel pack contains everything your favorite traveler needs for onthe-road skin treatment. Citrus Zest and Cool Mint lip balms are included, as well as skin repair, first aid and dry skin salves. $24.95, greengoohelps.com.
Kate Spade Walk on Air holiday gift set This season, revel in the sweet and youthful scent of Kate Spade’s Walk On Air holiday gift scent. The set includes 3.4 ounces of eau de parfum spray, 3.4 ounces of body cream and a rollerball duo. Purchase Walk On Air for a loved one or treat yourself for the holidays. $98, katespade.com.
OUT+ABOUT: LGBTQ community engagement
By John Trobaugh In the last few months, I have seen posts online and spoken with community leaders who lament the waning community engagement, while others say we couldn’t have more involvement! So I
decided to ask a few members of the LGBTQ community their thoughts, as well as reflect on it myself.
This time last year we were able to get 300 people to respond and about 200 people to show up
to a town hall-style meeting about interest in an LGBTQ community center. More about that
in a future column, but that level of engagement tells me when the community is interested, it shows up.
That being said, I have noticed that I am not able to go to as many events as I would like, and when I go to community events, sometimes there are fewer people there.
One of the people I spoke with, who does more events than me, is Dale LePage. Dale is a fabulous award-winning male entertainer. He said, “It’s very difficult to find time for the things
that I actually need to get done. We can’t be everything to everyone, and we can’t be all places, all the time. Central Massachusetts is bombarded with incredible fun events, music, art, political meetings, etc. When I started New England Pride TV, I had a huge group of supportive people
who attended meetings and reached out to me. In the seven months New England Pride TV has
been airing, my support team has dwindled from 25 to four people, which is crazy because now
that it’s actually doing so well and getting noticed and airing in over a million homes, I need the help more than ever. Everyone is so busy in their own personal lives – as I am and as we all are – it’s really hard to find the time to do the things we want to do.”
I also spoke with Heather Mangione, of Air Spray, Worcester’s Queer Dance Party. Her
perspective was that she has seen an increase in participation! “I think in the last few years, LGBT community engagement has definitely increased! Airspray is three years old this
November, Pride is definitely bigger, and we have a youth Pride! That’s huge! But I think we can only make the connections stronger. The LGBT networking event is growing, the college students are reaching out more, etc. I think the next two years will really see a lot of positive growth for LGBT community engagement in Worcester!”
Finally, I spoke with Peter Bacchiocchi, president of Worcester Pride. “We have worked hard
to build a social media presence with good success. We continue to struggle with developing personal engagement. We have increased our overall participation somewhat by focusing on
increasing our sub-committee activities and providing each sub-committee with more focused topic areas.”
My experience is that Pride has grown every year in the last five-plus years, even with the rain this year!
While we only have one bar solely dedicated to the LGBTQ Community (shout out to the MB Lounge and its awesome Pride flag), we have events at many locations. As a former leader
of Pride and someone who has volunteered with many of these activities, I do understand the struggle. We do see more and more events on social media, but rather than seeing the ones we couldn’t go to as missed opportunities, we should just see them as opportunities. We are growing
as a community, and that anxious feeling of missed opportunities is just growing pains! Central
Massachusetts is genuinely hopping with activity, and if you are not involved, this is your call to action!
Have an idea for a new column topic? Email John@JohnArt.com.
thepulsemag.com
25
Apps to Save you money Why not use your smartphone to save some money? Here are some apps that can help you do exactly that!
1. Prevent parking fees Travelers, commuters and shoppers can all bid farewell to parking tickets, thanks to Parkmobile, the innovative new app that’s revolutionizing parking across cities nationwide and saving drivers a bundle. With Parkmobile, drivers can find parking spots in real time and pay using their smartphone – no need to carry coins, cash or cards. What’s more, users can easily “refill the meter” with just a tap of their finger. us.parkmobile.com.
2. Shipping substitute Roadie is a new peer-to-peer, app-based shipping community that’s tapping into the more than 1 billion square feet of excess capacity in passenger vehicles already on the road. The service connects people with stuff to send with drivers already heading in that direction. Roadie’s model enables efficient, low-cost delivery with pricing based on size, not weight. Plus, its “open box” policy eliminates the need for expensive packaging. roadie.com.
3. Electronics exchange Gazelle.com, the leading trade-in site for consumer electronics, offers certified, pre-owned devices. Consumers can get great deals on everything from smartphones to tablets and even MacBooks – up to 45 percent less than new devices. Gazelle’s pre-owned gadgets have no contracts, and payment plans help make upgrading easy and affordable. gazelle.com.
4. Better banking ChimpChange helps improve spending and saving habits by delivering a modern, free community banking experience through the ease of an app. All users also get a linked prepaid MasterCard – which can be used to make purchases, pay bills or withdraw cash anywhere – to help prevent overspending and create smart financial practices. chimpchange.met
thepulsemag.com
27
food+drink
new around the woo:
The Pint By Rachel Shuster
Located at 58 Shrewsbury St. in Worcester, The Pint certainly delivers on its name. With a vast selection of craft beers, great food and a unique, but laidback, atmosphere, The Pint is sure to offer a great time. When you walk into The Pint, which opened on Sept. 1, you can’t help but notice the crazy décor. Marco Tonelli, who co-owns and manages The Pint with his father, John, describes the décor as “made up of quirky knick-knacks.” “We picked up a good amount of it over the years, but our bartender also helped design the inside. We also picked up many items from local and antique shops, salvage yards and the Springfield Fair. We did it all ourselves,” he said. Besides the décor, you also can’t help but notice the relaxed feel and large bar filled with tasty spirits and unique beers. There is also a chalkboard featuring various craft beers that will make decision-making quite difficult. “It’s a craft beer, whisky and cocktail bar with a laid-back, lodge-like atmosphere,” Tonelli said. “My father and I have both always wanted to get into the bar industry. Since we opened, it’s been awesome. We went the first month without any advertising, just word of mouth. It’s just a place where working-class, 25- to 50-year-olds can come hang out, have a good cocktail or beer and watch sports.” The Pint has 16 draft lines of craft beer that are constantly rotating. “We don’t stick to one specific beer. You might have a beer one night that you may not have again for a while because we are constantly rotating them out,” Tonelli said. You can find mostly New England-based craft beers at The Pint, including several from Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine and Connecticut. As for cocktails, there are many tasty options to choose from, but one to try is the Whisky Sour made with egg whites! “People are always hesitant to try it. I was too! But it’s just so good,” Tonelli said. Cocktails are all around $11. While the beer and drinks are main attractions at The Pint, the bar food menu, although small, is oh-so-delicious! The “food truck style” menu includes five different types of kettle chips, yummy paninis such as the Hawaiian and Italian, and grilled cheese sandwiches with stand outs like the Loaded Grilled Cheese. Grilled cheese sandwiches and paninis range from $7-$9. An absolute must when at The Pint are the nachos with candied bacon and beer cheese for $11. You read that correctly – candied bacon and beer cheese! “We also use several condiments from Dr. Gonzo’s Uncommon Condiments, also a local Worcester business,” Tonelli added. Another unique find at The Pint is the shuffleboard! Patrons can have a drink, eat a grilled cheese sandwich and play a game of shuffleboard. What could be better than that? If playing a game of Cards Against Humanity is more your speed, don’t worry, because The Pint has that, too! “We also have trivia on Wednesday nights. From 9-10 p.m., we have fastpaced Name That Tune Trivia,” Tonelli said. Concerned about parking on busy Shrewsbury Street? Don’t fret! Street and lot parking are available. The Pint is open seven days a week from 4:30 p.m.-2 a.m. For more information about The Pint, find them on Facebook, email thepintworcester@gmail.com or call 508-414-1314.
28
December 2016
pulsebrew: Holiday gift ideas
By Kerry Cyganiewicz You have someone on your shopping list that is a beer-lover, and you are wondering what to get. After speaking with other craft beer professionals, noting industry trends and consuming vast
amounts of products, most of them locally produced, I’m proud to recommend the following ideas. Cheers!
Local brewery swag. I can never have enough glasses, or winter hats, or T-shirts – and I
am not alone. People that enjoy craft beer are known to collect these, not to mention that glasses break, hats get lost, and who doesn’t like a new T-shirt? A great idea is to buy the glass and roll
up either the shirt or the hat and stuff it into the glass. Wormtown in Worcester has a glass that resembles a beer can. Treehouse in Monson has a glass that is like a tumbler, and I’ve found it to
be more durable than most beer glasses on the market. This is perfect for those on a set budget or gifting in a situation where alcohol is discouraged, like certain workplaces or schools.
Bottle in a bag. This is a take on the familiar wine-bottle-in-a-bag gift. Feel free to keep
it a bottle of wine if you wish to broaden the desires of your designated craft beer-drinker. You could even substitute in a nice bottle of craft cider such as one of my favorites from Artifact Cider Project, Bantam Cider or Cider Creek. You could always research my previous article online on
thepulsemag.com and see what I recommend for larger format bottes that would fit perfectly in a wine bag. When in doubt, grab something from Allagash Brewing in Maine. I have yet to have a beer from them that I did not enjoy.
Locally roasted coffee. Just about every brewery that I have visited brews some sort
of beer with coffee in it. Usually, these beers are some of the most sought-after beers the brewery produces. This, in turn, has fine-tuned the senses of craft beer-drinkers to a better quality of
coffee. Local breweries generally get their coffee for these beers from local roasters. I personally
cold brew my coffee at home with beans I’ve purchased from Sturbridge Coffee Roasters in
Dudley, Armeno Coffee Roasters in Northborough, and Red Barn Coffee Roasters in Upton. Make a nice gift basket with some locally roasted beans and a quality mug. If you do not know what kind to get, ask. I’ve found the local roasters to be quite knowledgeable.
Spice blends. Some beer drinkers like to just enjoy their beer. Others like to keep notes or even post and share these notes to various online forums, touting the various smells and tastes
they picked up from beers. If you have read any of my previous columns, I fall into either category, depending on the beer. It has totally changed how I approach food, both at home and when I
dine out. My spice cabinet at home has tripled in size over the past few years from my expanding
palate, and no doubt, the beer-lover in your life has experienced a similar phenomenon. Head on over to Ed Hyder’s on Pleasant Street in Worcester. They have a wide selection spice blends. BT’s
Smokehouse in Sturbridge has a few signature seasonings for sale, as well. Crust Bakeshop, next door to Armsby Abbey on Main Street in Worcester, has a wide selection of spice blends and pre-made gift baskets near the holiday season.
Gift cards. You can never go wrong with a properly purchased gift card. Key words there
are “properly purchased.” Make sure to get a gift card from somewhere that the individual will use and use quickly. Get one to a favorite beer bar or, perhaps, a new one that just opened in the area. Our website at thepulsemag.com is a great resource, as you can search my previous columns
to see what I have recommended in the past, or you can go by our previous restaurant reviews. You could also use any of the above-mentioned merchants as a guide and get a gift card there, or
even a combination of a gift and a gift card. While you are at it, get something for yourself, too. You deserve it. Cheers!
thepulsemag.com
29
dining review:
Bootleggers Prohibition Pub
By Bernie Whitmore I never really warmed up to EVO, the previous restaurant at 234 Chandler St. The name seemed to promise a level of excitement I didn’t experience in the cuisine, and the décor was, to my eyes, a hodge-podge of surface materials – wood, rock, glass and clicking beads. Nothing seemed to unify this tactile discord. The cuisine was decent, but the overall experience was uninspiring. There’s good news! This summer, while I wasn’t watching, EVO closed and went through a total reboot. All that disparate surface stuff – gone. In its place the owners have come back with a Prohibition Chic theme, brick and barn-board walls; roughhewn tables (go ahead, count all the screw heads imbedded in the gleaming Lucite tabletops) and fashion accents for the waitstaff that approximate the 1920’s era. That theme’s been carried through to the drink offerings. Moonshine plays a big role, though I’ve moved so far from mixed drinks that I was relieved when Samantha, our server, informed me Sam Adams Rebel Grapefruit IPA was on tap. Rebel Grapefruit’s refreshingly bitter citrus flavor is a welcome step in Sam’s move to reclaim its craft brew credibility. Whereas the drink list leans heavily upon the speakeasy vocabulary, the food menu is a bit less tricked out and would easily pass in most gastro pubs. From the Bluenose Bites appetizer section, we decided to order the Buffalo Calamari Rings. Just when you thought you’d tasted all that could be done with squid, along comes buffalo. Bootleggers’ recipe was one of the more memorable calamari treatments I’ve enjoyed. Served in a silver dish that looked like an upside-down flying saucer, they were morsel-sized rings – no tentacle tangles – coated in hot pepper seasoning and flash-fried golden brown. No heavy oil flavor interfered with the pleasing afterburn of the buffalo spices. The dish came with a cup of honey ranch-like dressing for those in need of cooling relief. I’m not sure what was meant by Bluenose Bites. But if it means not-for-sharing, it described this dish accurately. Our portion of calamari was, actually, what an appetizer should be: just enough to whet your appetite for the entrée course. As I’d scanned Bootlegger’s menu, I noticed most categories
Bootleggers Prohibition Pub 234 Chandler St., Worcester (508) 753-1889 bootleggersprohibitionpub.com
30
December 2016
contained some sort of meat with “Blackberry Moonshine BBQ Sauce.” This intrigued me, so for my entrée I selected Blackberry Short Rib Street Tacos. Two grilled, soft tacos came loaded with soft chunks of short rib beef over a bed of shredded lettuce and garnished with chopped green onions and a piping of apple cider fromage. The blackberry barbecue sauce was, happily, not screaming of berry flavor like a kid’s lollipop. Instead, it lent a hint of sweetness to the meat. The stripe of soft cheese, however, was sweet enough to schmear on cheesecake. Together, they resulted in a dish I referred to as my “meat dessert.” I meant that in a very good way. My friend was just as pleased with his sandwich, the Hillbilly. From across the table, it looked just like a Reuben sandwich. And that’s how he enjoyed it: The slabs of marble rye bread were, he reported, “soft and fresh but grilled crisp, and the corned beef is thick-cut and lean.” It was piled up with sauerkraut, horseradish mustard and melty Havarti cheese. Each time he picked it up, juice rained out onto his dish, ample evidence that it was rich and satisfying. Though packed with flavor, the dishes we selected were smaller than regular entrees. Therefore, I should hasten to point out that Bootleggers also offers a half-dozen burger options and entrees that include items such as Korean Salmon, Steak & Frites and Seafood Fra Diablo. Bootleggers Prohibition Pub joins the increasing ranks of themed restaurants coming to the Worcester area. This is made humorously evident in the manifesto posted on its website. It includes this statement: “Unknowingly, you are seduced and hypnotized by the secret and seedier side of prohibition.” Be sure to dress appropriately.
hotandnow: What’s hot and what’s happening now in the restaurant scene By Paul Giorgio
More local breweries. The trend to create more local breweries grew again this past month as Homefield Brewing opened at 3 Arnold Road in Sturbridge the first week of November. It features craft beer and cider on draft.
Who says you can’t have your pie and drink it too? Wormtown Brewery and Table Talk Pies have teamed up to create Table Talk Pumpkin Pie Ale. The beer was released Nov. 15, just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday. It is great to see these two iconic Worcester institutions teaming up. What is next? Maybe Coney Island Hotdog Ale or Spag’s Beer?
More hookah. The trend toward hookah bars continues in Worcester, with a new place set to open by Wal-Mart. Tarboush Hookah Lounge will open at 8 Blackstone River Road. This is in the heart of Quinsig Village.
It’s kind of unusual. The Usual, a restaurant and bar, opened Nov. 19 on Worcester’s Shrewsbury Street. This took over the space that once housed The Fix. The Usual will be a welcome addition to the Shrewsbury Street scene.
In more usual news. Husband and wife, Kevin Perry and Stacy Gala, who own The Usual, also bought Blackstone Tap on Worcester’s Water Street. They are planning to expand the kitchen and bring food to this popular Canal District watering hole. The changes will occur slowly until after The Usual is up and running.
Pepe has a new chef. Daniel Quiroa is the new chef at Pepe’s on Worcester’s Franklin Street. He formerly worked at Nuovo. In addition to a new chef, Pepe’s has also hired a new manager – Adam Fedele, who formerly worked at Tweeds. Pepe’s is a family restaurant that serves authentic Italian food and great pizza.
Bridge to Grill. The Grafton Grill opened in mid-November in the space that once housed The Bridge Street Bistro, a short-lived restaurant at 10 Bridge St. in North Grafton, just over the Worcester line. The Grafton Grill will serve American cuisine. The kitchen is manned by Welton Carmo and owned by Lori and Steve Belfiore.
Holiday gift idea.
The Nonna Box is a unique holiday gift idea from NonnaBox.com.
Each box features foods from a unique part of Italy with instructions on how to prepare the food. It is sort of like Blue Apron, but less complicated and more fun to make. Imagine receiving a Nonna Box (Italian for “grandmother”) every month. Visit nonnabox.com for details.
Is Chandler Street getting a new restaurant? The area of Chandler Street across Park Avenue in Worcester has seen a few new restaurants open recently. First came Dianna’s, then Antonio’s. We hear a new place may be opening at 372 Chandler St. The Nu Café is located there now. Could another new place be opening or will there be name change? Stay tuned.
thepulsemag.com
31
art+culture
Joe’s Albums brings records to a whole new generation By Sloane M. Perron
the “slow degradation in sound for many years.”
What began as a hobby for self-proclaimed record enthusiast, Joe Demers, has transformed into a lifelong career and successful Worcester business. Joe’s Albums, at Mechanics Hall, is a one-of-a-kind store focused on records. It offers new and used vinyl records, as well as turntables, sound equipment and music merchandise.
A record, he said, “It is more of a full sound. People describe it as warmer.” Demers described his own experience listening to a REM record. He heard a ticking sound. At first, he thought it was a scratch on the record. But after listening to the song again, he realized that he was hearing the sound of a metronome in the background – something he had never heard when listening to the song on CD and on an MP3 player.
The idea for Joe’s Albums began when Demers pulled out some old records he hadn’t listened to in 15 or 20 years. He enjoyed the tonal quality of the records and wanted to buy more to add to his collection. However, while shopping himself, Demers realized that it was hard to find quality records at reasonable prices. “I saw a void in the market,” he said. Inspired by his own experiences as a record collector, Demers opened Joe’s Albums as an online store in April 2010. “I had an order the first day I went live. I was shocked!” Demers joked. The business continued to grow, leading Demers to open a brick-and-mortar store in Tatnuck Square in 2012. Joe’s Albums became a niche market for those looking for specific records and equipment. As a result, many of Demers’ customers came from out of town. In order to accommodate the business, Demers quit his full-time job to run the store. Last month, he relocated Joe’s Albums to Main Street. Demers said his business has grown in the past 12-18 months. Demers said when he started the business, his customers were mainly middle-aged men who had not listened to their records for years and were looking to update their collections or revive their hobby. Today, Demers said there has been a shift in the “buying demographic.” Now, more teenagers and 20-somethings are interested in purchasing records and turntables. Demers said records are coming back as customers understand the superior sound quality and unique experience that comes from listening to music on vinyl. Demers said that music on MP3 players are “too clean” and demonstrate
32
December 2016
In addition, Demers said that customers enjoy the tangible experience of listening to records and said the record experience increases active listening, since listeners are physically engaged in the process. “Analog is truly the way we hear,” Demers said. Classic rock and jazz are among the best-sellers at Joe’s Albums. However, current artists offer records, as well. Demers said the variety of genres found at his store, “runs the entire gamut, from Justin Bieber to classic jazz to everything in between.” Demers also features local artists, such as The Curtis Mayflower and Secret Lover, at his store. He encourages local bands or artists to press vinyls. “If more were doing that, I’d be happy to set up a section of local artists.” Joe’s Albums carries 25,000-30,000 records and helps customers both buy and sell records and equipment. One of Demers’ goals is to book music events at Washburn Hall, which accommodates about 250 people – perfect for music, Demers said. “I always thought Worcester lacked venues that size. Worcester has big events or bars, but nothing in between.” When asked if Demers thought his part-time hobby of listening to records would turn into a successful Worcester business, he laughed and answered, “No, never.” Joe’s Albums is at 317 Main St., Worcester. For more information, call (508) 796-5352, visit joesalbums.com, or check out the store’s Facebook page.
N O R T H C O U N T Y • D I N I N G • E N T E R TA I N M E N T • N I G H T L I F E • S H O P P I N G • N O R T H C O U N T Y • D I N I N G • s h o p p i n g
N O R T H C O U N T Y • D I N I N G • E N T E R TA I N M E N T • N I G H T L I F E • S H O P P I N G • N O R T H C O U N T Y • D I N I N G • E N T E R TA I N M E N T • N I G H T L I F E • S H O P P I N G
N O R T H C O U N T Y • D I N I N G • E N T E R TA I N M E N T • N I G H T L I F E • S H O P P I N G • N O R T H C O U N T Y • D I N I N G • s h o p p i n g
style+beauty
Go glam
for the holidays
It’s time to amp up your look for the parties, events and family functions that are part of the holidays. Here are some products that will make sure you put your best face forward!
Get glowing Exfoliate weekly with The Vassar Rose Perfecting Polish, and your skin will feel and look brand new. The polish will safely and naturally remove any dead, dull surface cells and discoloration, leaving you with a perfect canvas for your holiday makeup. $30, farmaesthetics.com.
Repair Spent too much time in the sun last summer? No worries! Mother Nature and modern science meet in Mad Hippie Exfoliating Serum. Purge skin of discoloration and wrinkles with this alpha hydroxyl-based serum. Your skin will be dewy-fresh for the holidays. $34.99, madhippie.com.
Go bold Face Atelier’s haute eye shadows come in 41 lavish colors and textures. Not only does the brand not test on animals, but it is long-lasting and will make your eyes pop at holiday parties. $17, faceatelier.com.
Go-to beauty Mini Matte Lipstick Charms from Charlotte Tilbury ensure you’ll always have Hollywood-style wow right at your fingertips. Choose from Red Carpet Red, a true ruby red; Amazing Grace, a delicate shade inspired by Grace Kelly; and Very Victoria, a nude inspired by Victoria Beckham and perfect for those who buck the trends. $39, nordstrom.com.
Smell divine Simply Divine Fragrance from Diana Vreeland magnifies the opulent nectar of tuberose with its natural, green, crushed-leaves freshness and a wink of nutmeg. Spend the holidays in a cloud of luxury. $185, nordstrom.com.
34
December 2016
stealthestyle: Say 'Cheese!'
By Jamie Burke Everyone loves cheese. Everyone! If you say you don’t, you have serious problems. Maybe you are an alien or a robot. Even vegans love cheese and try to recreate the salty, ooey gooeyness with organic soy chunks of some sort. Even people with irritable bowel syndrome can’t stay away from the addictive qualities of cheese. Cheese is hypnotic and delicious. So, anyone can benefit from this little craft. A cheese board to meet your every cheese need. It only takes about 30 minutes, and you can use expensive to inexpensive material. This makes a great gift or a fun craft night with your friends,while sipping wine and eating said cheese. Your choice!
Supplies: Wood: I get my wood from the local hardware store. You can choose cheap pine for a couple bucks or use the nice stuff, like red oak, for about $10 a foot. I have someone cut the wood for me at the store at no cost. I go with a 12-inch by 12-inch, 1-inch thick wood board.
Stain: I also pick a stain that I can use over for different things. I like using the fast wood stain called Varathane. I get the tiny cans that only hold a couple of ounces. Sandpaper Chalkboard Spray Paint (optional)
Steps: 1. Head to your local hardware store for the wood. You can even use salvaged wood, but make sure it is not pretreated with chemicals and that you know where the wood comes from. Otherwise, you do not want to be putting food on it. I like using red oak. It is more expensive, but nice, worth the money, and it preserves better. I get the 12-inch width and 1-inch thick. You can have the wood cut at the store for free if you have less than two cuts. After two cuts, you must pay a fee. It is a small fee. Also, go to the store when it is not busy; otherwise, you will never find anyone to cut the wood for you. 2. You need to sand the edges down well, so get a thick grit hen finish with a finishing small grit. Sandpaper is cheap. You can do it by hand or with a palm sander. Make sure to remove all dust when you are done. I usually wet a paper towel, wring it out so it is damp, and wipe all the dust off. Then, decide if you want a distressed look or a clean finish. I like distressing because I am most likely going to drop the board, lose it in the trunk of my car for eight months, or a kid will use it for PlayDoh. Distressing just means beating the crap out of the wood. Take a hammer and go to town on it. Make scrapes or holes or dents. Anything works. Or if you are not fun at all, you can just leave it. 3. Next up is staining.I use Varathane. I use just the wood stain with no polyurethane. It is quick and easy to use. I like to mix my stains. Lately I have been loving the Carrington and Weathered Grey together. I mix it up in a cup to a color I like, and I use a disposable sponge applicator for $1. Then, I wipe it down with a clean cloth rag. Basically, it dries in 20 minutes. Wear gloves if you have them, or your hands will be a mess for a few days. 4. The next step is optional. I like the whole chalkboard fad. I only used it on one side though. Take some painter’s tape and tape off a square – or whatever section or shape you want – for chalkboard space. I use the chalk board spray paint for speed, but you can paint on the canned stuff. Wait until the paint is dry, peel off the tape, and you are done!
thepulsemag.com
35
36
December 2016
thepulsemag.com
37