OUT OF THE PARK WORCESTER HITS IT
A look at the past, present and future of Worcester Baseball
Historical photos provided from the collection of Worcester Historical Museum, Worcester, Massachusetts
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PULSE MAGAZINE: JUNE 2019 LIFESTYLE
COVER STORY Worcester Hits It Out of the Park:
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FOOD + DRINK Dining Review:
Galliford's Restaurant & Tavern
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Hot&Now 11 New Around the Woo:
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PulseBrew:
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Punch Pops
Beer for the People
Out+About:
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Intersectionality
420 in the 508:
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THC vs. CBD
SPORTS + FITNESS Get in Shape for the Summer
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FindingBalance:
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The Power of Tea
ENTERTAINMENT
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Summer of Music:
Make Music Worcester and Central Mass Jazz Fest
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The Central Scene
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NowStreaming:
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P!NK / The Shallow Side / The Cranberries
GameOn: 17 JackQuest Goes on a Familiar Adventure
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ARTS + CULTURE Inside the World of a Worcester Fire Breather
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STYLE + BEAUTY StyleSavvy:
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Summer Style for Every Occasion
Pulse Shots
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Club Listings
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Luxe List:
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5 Style Finds for an Exceptional Summer Season
Paul Giorgio, Publisher pgiorgio@pagioinc.com Sloane Perron, Editor sperron@pagioinc.com Carl Marzolini, Art Director cmarzolini@pagioinc.com Justin Peacock, Events & Marketing cmarzolini@pagioinc.com David Simone, Vice President, Sales dsimone@pagioinc.com
Danny Jailet, Bernie Whitmore, Tina Morin, Jennifer Russo, Jason Savio, Elliot Mercier, Merilee Kern, John Trobaugh, Paul Giorgio, April Goodard, Suzanne Karioki, FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: TWITTER @WORCESTERPULSE • INSTAGRAM @PULSEMAG_WORC • FACEBOOK.COM/THEPULSEMAGAZINE Mike Wood, Ryan Cashman, Rachel Shuster, Writers Cover photo credit: Bruce Kluckohn 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
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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
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WORCESTER HITS IT
OUT OF THE PARK DANNY JALLIET
Courtesy of the City of Worcester
From the collection of Worcester Historical Museum, Worcester, Massachusetts
A Renaissance is taking place in every aspect of Worcester, including in the world of sports. The development of the WooSox Stadium will mean great strides for the city’s future. Pulse Magazine has the latest on Worcester’s baseball legacy: from the first perfect game played in history, to current Major League players who were born and bred in the city, and the ground breaking of the future WooSox stadium! 6 M ay 20 19
Past: Historic Baseball Moments In The Woo
The First Perfect Game On June 12, 1880, Lee Richmond prepared to play for the Worcester Ruby Legs against the Cleveland Blues. It was his first full season game. After an impressive performance against the Chicago White Stockings in 1879, he’d been signed for $2,400 (about $63,059 today). The 23-year-old took to the field that day and pitched the first perfect game in Major League history to an ecstatic crowd of just under a thousand. A perfect game involves a starting pitcher (or a combination of the starting pitcher and the bullpen) giving up no hits and no walks over
1880
nine innings. Only 23 perfect games have been thrown in Major League Baseball history, with the last three in 2012: Philip Humber of the Chicago White Sox on April 12; Matt Cain of the San Francisco Giants on June 13; and Felix Hernandez of the Seattle Mariners on August 15.
The Least Attended Major League Game in History The Ruby Legs — also knowns as the Worcester Worcesters and the Brown Stockings — enjoyed a very short-lived career after launching a massive fundraising effort to enter the National League, firing three managers in one Photo of an old ball park, from the collection of Worcester Historical Museum, Worcester, Massachusetts
season and lodging a complaint which resulted in the Cincinnati Reds being kicked from the National League. On September 28, 1882, the team made history again; a game against the Troy Trojans at the Worcester Driving Park Grounds was played in front of a huge attendance of six fans — the smallest crowd of any major league game in history.
“Casey at the Bat” In June of 1883, Ernest Lawrence Thayer published “Casey at the Bat” in The Examiner. Thayer was born in the city of Lawrence, MA., and raised in Worcester where he wrote, according to the Baseball Almanac, “the single most famous baseball poem ever written,” which went on to be his most famous work. The Worcester Ruby Legs’ run ended because of lackluster performances against stronger teams. In the poem, “Casey at the Bat,” Page 1 of the original "Casey at the Bat." from the collection of Worcester Historical Museum, Worcester, Massachusetts
a baseball team also suffers an unfortunate defeat, albeit in this case because of a player’s hubris rather than outstanding circumstances.
First Curveball Worcester is also reputedly the site of the first curveball, thrown by William Arthur “Candy” Cummings in 1867 for the Brooklyn Stars. The curveball has become synonymous with baseball, especially in the mid-90s with Red Sox reliever Tom Gordon, and today with pitcher Matt Barnes, also for the Red Sox.
Ted Williams Also, in Worcester, Ted “The Splendid Splinter” Williams made his Red Sox debut in the iconic red and white uniform at Fitton Field at Holy Cross College during the 1937 season. Holy Cross College pitcher Mike Klarnick got an early glimpse of William’s star-studded career as he surrendered a grand slam From the collection of Worcester Historical Museum, Worcester, Massachusetts
to Williams during the game. t h epu ls emag.com
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Present: Local Baseball Stars
offer from the LG Twins which he turned down to stay in the U.S. In 2016, he outdid himself, setting personal records in every category as a batter.
Worcester County has had many professional baseball players to its credit. Chris Colabello, Tim Collins, and Oliver Drake, are examples of talented players who were born and bred in the Woo.
However, off-the-field issues would follow him, derailing his major-league career. He tested positive for a banned substance in March 2016. Major League Baseball suspended him for 80 games. He would sign minor-league contracts with the Cleveland Indians and Milwaukee Brewers before electing free agency on November 6, 2017. In May 2019, Colabello signed with the Sugar Land Skeeters.
Tim Collins Tim Collins had an interesting path to the majors as well. Born in Worcester, Collins was a graduate of Worcester Technical High School where he was a master on the mound. He established a record of 91 wins to five defeats and ended his high school career nicely by throwing a no-hitter against Auburn High School in the district championship game. He officially began his career in 2007 with the Gulf Coast Blue Jays after being discovered by Toronto general manager J. P. Riccardi. From there, he skyrocketed to the major leagues. Credit: Bruce Kluckohn
Chris Colabello Chris Colabello is a man with a tumultuous yet successful baseball career. Born in Framingham, he and his family moved to his mother’s hometown of Rimini, Italy where Colabello fell in love with the game of baseball. His father, Lou Colabello, even played the sport in Italy and represented the country at the 1984 Olympics. After returning to Massachusetts, Colabello graduated from Milford High School and attended NCAA Division II Assumption College, where he played four seasons with the program. Colabello was known for driving runs with ease, batting .380 in his junior year with seven home runs and 44 RBIs. Colabello wasn’t drafted by an MLB team at the end of his college career, but that didn’t stop him. He played in the independent minor leagues for seven years with the Worcester Tornadoes. It wasn’t until 2013 that he finally got his first big break: a contract from the Minnesota Twins to play for their Double-A Team in New Britain, Connecticut. Colabello immediately made an impact on the team, smashing Hall of Famer Kirby Puckett’s franchise record of 26 RBIs in April 2013, earning himself a dream promotion to the major leagues. He even garnered the interest of the Korea Baseball Organization, with a $1 million
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Collins was traded to the Atlanta Braves on July 14, 2010 and then traded yet again to the Kansas City Royals. Pitching one inning against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, CA, Collins had a successful year in 2011. With one major-league season under his belt, Collins aimed for even bigger things in 2012. Collins made an impact for the Royals in 2012. Recording 93 strikeouts, that is his highest career total to date. Collins has also pitched for the Washington Nationals. Last year for the Nationals, he appeared in 38 games and recorded an ERA of 4.37. He also held a .264 batting average over the course of 22.2 innings.
— Collins returned to the major league in 2019, signing a contract with the Chicago Cubs on March 24. With three World Series appearances under his belt, Collins is now 29 years old but still has new records to set for the Cubs.
Oliver Drake Gardner, Massachusetts does not exactly sound like a baseball hotbed. Nevertheless, sometimes the small towns are the ones that are home to the most talent. Oliver Drake is one pitcher who managed to go from a hometown hero to a major league baseball star. Northfield Mount Hermon School was where Drake’s baseball journey began. As his high school head coach, Dick Peller would work with Drake over the course of three seasons. Drake’s work ethic was always something that he carried with him. He did not just save it for the baseball diamond. “He was a very good two-sport athlete, which in this day and age is becoming very rare. He was well-rounded, friendly to all, and worked hard in the classroom as well as the teams he played on,” Peller said. After concluding his high school career, Drake went on to play baseball at the United States Naval Academy. He excelled from the get-go, having a tremendous freshman season. Rather than continue at the Navy, he decided to continue his dream of becoming a professional baseball player. He began his career with the Bluefield Orioles having a successful season in 2008. His stellar performance moved him further up to the minor-league rung, and everything appeared to be in place for him to make the fast track to the major leagues. After spending 2013 and 2014, primarily in the minor leagues, he made his debut with the Baltimore Orioles on May 23, 2015.
After another minor league deal with the Minnesota Twins — the very same team that had given Chris Colabello his first big break in 2013
For a time, Drake was traded from team to team ultimately setting a major-league baseball record for most teams played for in a single season. Most recently, he was picked up by the Tampa Bay Rays on January 4th where he is currently in their minor-league system with the Durham Bulls.
Credit: MLB Trade Rumors
Credit: Tampa Bay Rays
Future: The WooSox Credit: Baseball America
Q&A with John Andreoli John Andreoli was born in the city and later attended St. John’s High School in Shrewsbury. He has had major success in his professional baseball career playing for the Chicago Cubs, Seattle Mariners, Baltimore Orioles, among others. Currently, Andreoli plays as an outfielder for the Minnesota Twins. Q: You got called up to the Major Leagues on May 23, 2017. Can you describe the emotions you had? A: It was an incredible moment, and very emotional to achieve a lifelong goal of mine. The feelings and reactions of my fiancé and family when telling them about the news is something I will remember forever.
Q: What is the best piece of advice you have received during your time in baseball so far? A: To stay in the present moment, and to always trust your work and process in order to achieve success.
Q: You were a member of the 2017 Italian National Baseball team and you played in the World Baseball Classic. Can you describe one experience you had that was the most memorable to you during this time? A: Scoring five runs in the bottom of the 9th without recording an out to beat Mexico. Celebrating after walking off the tournament’s home team in front of a sold-out crowd is a feeling I still talk about today.
Q: How do you feel about the Worcester Red Sox coming to the city? As a baseball player from this area, how do you think this addition will impact baseball hopefuls? A: I think it is going to be unbelievable for the city of Worcester. The AAA cities that I have played in with new stadiums have an energy in them that is very exciting, and businesses seem to flourish throughout. From a baseball standpoint, it will be great for Central Massachusetts to experience Major League talent on a nightly basis. I think that combined with the energy around the team and the ballpark, it will spotlight the great high school baseball talent throughout Central MA each year.
With the PawSox set to come to Worcester in the next couple of years, excitement is in the air. The team will undoubtedly miss Pawtucket, a place they have called home since 1969. However, the change will mean a new chapter of baseball milestones for Worcester. Ahead of the big move, I had the opportunity to speak with PawSox (and future WooSox) Vice President and General Manager Dan Rea. It is clear that the organization has a vision for the future. Baseball fans and the city of Worcester should be excited for what’s to come.
Courtesy of the City of Worcester
Q: Why was Worcester such an attractive option for the PawSox to relocate to? A: First and foremost, we were taken by a positive campaign. We received over 10,000 postcards from residents telling us to come here. We kept getting more and more each day. Once we began looking at other suitors, the grassroots support was a huge factor for us. We realized there was a vision that the city and state shared with us that could bring a lot of excitement to Worcester. We received a lot of tremendous political and corporate support from the city as well.
Q: How do you think the WooSox will impact the city of Worcester? (Economically and in terms of city identity) A: I think we are joining a wave of optimism and momentum. I think we are joining what has been a really strong recent trend of private investment and development. We are contributing, but we are joining a bunch of other things that are contributing here. We would look to the ballpark for other sports, concerts and festivals. We are going to have an event venue that is going to bring a lot of momentum to a place that already has a ton. I’m not going to say we are going to bring anything new in terms of identity, but we can certainly add to it.
Q: What are some of the elements that fans can look forward to at the new park? Are there any unique design aspects? A: We are in the midst of our design process right now. Some of it is still fluid. We want a ballpark that will look, and taste and smell like Worcester. We want a ballpark that is unique to Worcester. We want a ballpark that is reminiscent of the broader city and landscape. There will be some elements of Fenway Park, but want to stay true to the city. There is a quiet, humble pride for the citizens, where they are proud of the city and tradition. There will be some elements of Fenway, but we want to keep it true to the city.
Q: What are you personally most excited about regarding the construction of the WooSox stadium? A: I am excited about the fact that this project is about much more than a ballpark. This ballpark is going to be an active 12-month a year venue. It is going to be a ballpark for all seasons. Concerts, food truck festivals, this will be a ballpark for all people and all perspectives. As Larry Lucchino said, “When ballparks are built by the right people, they last.” Courtesy of the City of Worcester
Q: What was your best memory from your time at St. John’s? A: I would say there wasn’t one specific memory that stands out, but more-so how my friends and I grew throughout our four years there. It truly is a brotherhood, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without being a Pioneer. t h epu ls emag.com
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FOOD + DR I N K
DINING REVIEW
GALLIFORD’S RESTAURANT & TAVERN BERNIE WHITMORE Galliford’s Restaurant & Tavern 5 Southwick Street, Mendon, Massachusetts (508) 928-0928 www.gallifords.com
Dinner at Southwick Zoo? Cue visions of hot dogs steaming in the mid-spring drizzle as we take refuge from the cold in the monkey house. That sounds fun, let’s go! That spirit of adventure was tempered after some research, when I learned that the Southwick Zoo has their own tavern and restaurant; Galliford’s. Their menu is loaded with items I’d be happy to select. Burgers and weenies are still available, but in smaller venues scattered around the zoo. Getting to Southwick Street meant a straight-shot down Route 146 followed by a series of turns on winding country roads. Just when I thought we’d lost our way, the evening gloom was pierced by a large digital sign flashing blinding white light: Galliford’s! We had arrived. The large parking lot was packed with cars, it looked as if everyone in Mendon had shown up on that midweek evening. The restaurant is situated at the bottom of the gently sloping parking area; beyond it the zoo extends for hundreds of acres. As we walked towards the entrance, the silence of the countryside was torn by animal shrieks. Monkeys? On entry into Galliford’s we departed the Mendon wilderness and returned to the routine world of informal dining. A large lounge/bar area was crowded with people; beyond it was a dining room with heavy wood tables and chairs. The entire side of the restaurant looking out on the zoo was an enclosed patio featuring Galliford’s most popular tables. It was packed. Southwick Zoo goes back to the early 1960’s. It has a pleasing non-corporate ‘indie’ feel to it. I rather suspected the restaurant would share some of those funky flourishes. But that is not the case; Galliford’s is just a couple years old and feels contemporary in the best of ways. Mariah, our server, set us up with menus and answered all of our questions: Where do the animals go in the winter? Some are rented for the months of zoo operation. Was it always a zoo? It started as Southwick Wild Animal Farm. How many shrimp in the Firecracker Shrimp appetizer? Five. Ok, we’ll share an order. The last time I ordered Firecracker Shrimp I was very impressed. Galliford’s take on the dish was even bet-
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ter. Extra-large juicy shrimp were coated with honey sriracha glaze and fried till gooey-crisp on the outside whilst the meat remained perfectly moist and tender. The order of five was ideal for sharing, satisfying but not filling. In states south of Massachusetts, soft shell crabs are very popular. For some reason they’re rarely served here, so when I found them featured on Galliford’s Entrée Specials I knew I had to have the Fried Soft Shell Crab Sandwich. They took a large crab, seasoned the entire specimen (paper-thin shells included) with Old Bay-seasoned panko crumbs and deep fried it until it was deep-golden brown. Then they served it in a tender brioche bun topped with coleslaw, zesty remoulade sauce and baby greens. Each bite was crunchy and tasty with plenty of white crab meat. It was served with crackly home-fried potato chips and a pickle. I enjoyed the sandwich with a glass of Smuttynose Mysterious Haze, a New England IPA that balances hoppy bitter flavor with citrus and hints of tropical fruit. Galliford’s pours a nice tall glass. Come the warmer months this meal will be perfect out on the deck in the sunshine. My dining companion, ever a lover of beef, selected Galliford’s New York Sirloin and enthusiastically dug in. His critique, “It’s a boneless sirloin, nice and thick, perfectly cooked steak with a nice char on the outside but pink and juicy inside. Great flavor! The fresh string beans and asparagus are wonderful!” When it came time for dessert I was ready to take a pass. Then Mariah suggested Flourless Chocolate Cake and dessert regained its allure. Galliford’s flourless chocolate cake is a flat pie-shaped wedge, drizzled crazily with chocolate syrup and served with drifts of whipped cream. Its center was lustrous dark chocolate, creamy and rich and edged with a crispy-crusty thin shell. We devoured it so fast that Mariah chided our enthusiasm. On paper, the concept of establishing a higher-end restaurant to anchor a venerable family enterprise seems risky to me, especially given its outlying location. But, as we saw with Slaters at Indian Ranch, it undeniably works. In fact, I suspect Galliford’s Restaurant might be the jewel in the crown of Southwick Zoo. But you won’t find me trash-talking like that in the monkey house.
HOT & NOW What’s hot and happening now in the restaurant scene
PAUL GIORGIO
SUMMER FUN.
It’s once again time for Worcester’s unofficial kick off to summer. The annual Taste of Shrewsbury Street takes place on Tuesday, June 18 from 5 to 9 p.m. on Worcester’s Restaurant Row. Join the biggest Block Party in the city with food tastings and live music. Buttons are $25 and free for kids under 10. The money raised goes to the beautification of Shrewsbury Street.
VISIT THE VALLEY.
A new event the Blackstone Valley Restaurant Week kicks off on Monday, June 3 and runs until June 15. Eat at about a dozen Blackstone Valley Restaurants with a special three course menu for $25.19. Visit blackstonevalleyrestweek. com or Facebook for a list of participating restaurants and menus. The event is sponsored by Pulse Magazine, The Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce, Pepsi Worcester & Cantiani/East Douglas Insurance.
SEASONS.
The Four Seasons Restaurant, a long-standing landmark on Worcester’s Lake Ave. will soon be torn down to make way for a new development. Owned by the Potenti family for over 40 years, the restaurant was known for its Italian food and open steak sandwich.
SIMPLE SIMON MET A PIE MAN.
Worcester’s Table Talk Pies took home eight first prizes in the recent National Pie Championship in Orlando, Florida. 728 pies were judged in a host of categories. Now America knows what we have always known - Table Talk Pies are the best!
CHECK THE NIGHT SKY.
The Children’s Friend Society of Worcester hosts its annual Big Dipper ice cream festival on Saturday, June 22 from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Worcester’s Elm Park.
WHAT’S THE POINT?
Save Point Tavern a new video bar/restaurant will soon be opening in the space now occupied by Grille 57 on Worcester’s Highland Street. The Tavern will be owned by Brian Huff and will feature vintage games.
DITTO FOR SHREWSBURY STREET.
It appears that a second video game bar will be opening on Worcester’s Shrewsbury Street in the not too distant future. It will be located behind Mexicali Grille.
BABA SUSHI, A REAL HOTSPOT.
Baba Sushi, a hotspot for sushi on Worcester’s Park Ave recently was closed due to a fire. No word on a reopening date
IT’S IN BLACK & WHITE.
The owners of the Black & White Grill in Spencer will be opening their second location soon. Rumor has it that they will be opening a new restaurant at the location of the former Keepers on Route 12 in West Boylston.
COMING HOME.
Wachusett Brewery recently announced that they were returning to their roots by opening another brewery and tap room in Worcester’s Canal District just steps from the new Polar Park. The tap room will be located in the public market space of the Harding-Green Development at Kelley Square. t h epu ls emag.com
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FOOD + DR I N K
NEW AROUND THE WOO
PUNCH POPS RACHEL SHUSTER
Created by two Worcester natives, Punch Pops are the childhood favorite freeze pops with a grown-up twist.
long way. We made sure that was really good. We wanted to make it as perfect as possible.”
Friends turned business partners, Nassim Aoude and Michael Melkonian went to high school together at St. Peter Marian, stayed friends through college and beyond once they graduated and ventured into the working world. “I started a company and Michael went into the finance industry,” Aoude said.
From there, Aoude and Melkonian began finding manufacturers, went through the process of licensing and did a soft launch in Florida, partnering with Total Wine stores. “This spring, we are doing a proper, large scale launch in MA, CT and RI,” Aoude said. “In addition, we will launch an e-commerce component, where we can ship directly to the consumer in just under 30 states.”
Then one guys’ weekend changed everything. “We had a guys’ trip to the beach and that’s when we came up with idea in August 2017,” Aoude said. “We ran out of cups and someone needed a place to put alcohol, so we poured it into an empty freeze pop and the idea sparked from there.” Once the idea was born, Aoude and Melkonian got to work. “We spent the next eight months working on the product, becoming flavor scientists and learning the ins and outs of flavor development,” Aoude said. “We did market research and knew there were other products out there, but we experimented and explored how we could do it better. We were proving out the concept, testing with friends and family, testing over 10,000 pops, types of alcohol, flavors, etc. We wanted to bring more quality and affordability.”
"WE WANTED TO MAKE IT AS PERFECT AS POSSIBLE." Aoude and Melkonian were very particular about the flavor development during the experimental process. “We are big into candy and both have a sweet tooth, but we wanted them to not be too sweet,” Aoude said. “We are firm believers in quality and that is what will take this a
Punch Pops are 7.5% ABV alcohol, 88 calories, and 0g fat, so slurp up (Responsibly of course!). The alcohol in the pops is a wine made from oranges called Other Than Standard Orange Wine (OTSOW). They are also, vegan, dairy and gluten free, containing no artificial colors or sweeteners, using real cane sugar. “Once we got a good base down for the recipe, we wanted to hit those major nutritional points,” Aoude added. Punch Pops are half a standard drink each. “They are easy to drink, which people need to be cautious of,” Aoude said. “We tried to stay on the lower side to maintain responsible drinking, but it’s enough to keep the party going.” Punch Pops currently come in a lemon ice flavor only, but there are plans to come out with more flavors in the future. “We have many additional flavors in the works. Stay tuned!” Aoude said. Punch Pops come 12 in a box and cost $19.99, and some places sell singles for $1.99, but pricing may vary in different areas.
For more information on Punch Pops, visit drinkpunchpops.com.
PULSE BREW "BEER FOR THE PEOPLE" RYAN CASHMAN I hate saisons. They are pretentious, bitter, lacking in creative flavors and my least favorite beer. I’ve yet to find one I actually like. At least I did before I visited Worcester’s newest craft brewery, Redemption Rock. Located on Shrewsbury Street inside the old Coca-Cola building, the taproom is open and inviting. Each wall is unique. Floral wallpaper lines the retail area, wood paneling leads you to the bar, and a large mural, in the style of a Sailor Jerry tattoo, dominates the common area. It’s what industrial spaces might have looked like were hipsters the workforce of the Industrial Revolution. Hipster, a cliched and potentially off-putting term, is the best way to describe the varying aspects of Redemption Rock’s business. It’s worth noting that the atmosphere here isn’t that of the snotty, loner hipsters who think they invented flannel, vinyl, and typewriters. No, Redemption Rock’s vibe is that of the community hipster; those who care deeply about their town and the people in it. This type of entrepreneur has been flocking to Worcester over the past decade and has given us some of the city’s best businesses. Redemption Rock is a Massachusetts Benefit Corporation. This means that the owners are permitted to prioritize social and environmental impacts in their corporate decision making. In this respect, the brewery’s main focuses are natural conservation, community building, and fair wages. Because the company prides itself on paying employees a living wage, tipping is not expected or encouraged. It is a personal choice. Many European countries, like Italy and France, adopted a similar mindset, one which I personally think should be practiced more here in the United States. Any tips left at Redemption Rock are donated to a specified non-profit that align with the company’s values. But what of the beer? Unfortunately, it’s not spectacular. The War Castle New England IPA is dominated by hops, overpowering any citrus, and the Blackstone Irish Dry Stout is like drinking a liquified brick, while the Elfe blonde ale is refreshing but lacks flavor. However, The Birds, a red saison, is a masterpiece. The start is a hit of peppery cloves on the palate which then transforms into banana toast slathered in caramel on the finish. It is the farthest thing from a traditional saison you can find, which is why I love it so much. Redemption Rock states in its mission that it brews “beer for the people.” They are not out to please “hardcore beer nerds.” It’s an admirable sentiment, but one that needs more than one good beer to back it up. Still, this is only one beer lover’s opinion. Go and check out Redemption Rock for yourselves. They’re definitely worth a try.
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holding the Central Mass Jazz Fest the very next day on June 22 at Cristoforo Colombo Park.
ENTERTAINMENT
Marco DePasquale — committee member and Executive Director of WCCA — was first inspired to hold the festival last year. A jazz musician himself, and member of the group Jazzed Up Trio (which took home the prize for Best Jazz Act at the Worcester Music Awards in April), DePasquale wanted to create an event that would make jazz accessible. “It’s always been a dream of mine to have a world class jazz concert,” he explained, especially for people for whom attending a jazz concert is physically and financially out of reach. Originally planned for October 2018, the committee realized that they needed more time to create the event they imagined. “[There are] so many moving parts,” said DePasquale, especially for an event of this scale. “I have more acts than I have time on stage,” he laughed.
SUMMER OF MUSIC: MAKE MUSIC WORCESTER AND CENTRAL MASS JAZZ FEST SUZANNE KARIOKI
School’s out, the weather’s heating up and you’re looking at months of sunshine and adventure. But after a few days of soaking up the sun, what can you do to make the most of summer before the sky shutters again and the cold rushes back in? Worcester’s musicians have got you covered with two big events right at the heart of the season. On June 21st and 22nd, Make Music Worcester and Central Mass Jazz Fest aim to welcome people from inside and outside the city for two days of live music. Love to play music? You don’t have to be a pro to participate in Make Music Worcester, an all-day festival that allows musicians of all skill levels to perform at venues all over the city. From the first Make Music Day in Paris in 1982 – then known as Fête de la Musique — the event has grown into an international phenomenon, celebrated in over 700 cities worldwide. Make Music Worcester, organized by the Worcester Arts Council, provides the space for venues and musicians to
match up and schedule free performances for the general public. Although organizing performance times and equipment is up to the performers and venues, Make Music Worcester still deals with a lot of moving pieces to make sure the matches actually happen. Meaghan Hardy-Lavoie, Chair of the Worcester Arts Council, explained some of what happens behind the scenes. “Finding musicians and securing places for them to perform is just one portion,” she said. “We have to take in a lot of considerations regarding electricity, noise pollution from passing vehicles that might interfere with a performance, timing, etc.” Plenty of pros and long-time performers attend, but for Make Music Worcester and the Arts Council, the most important thing is making sure that everyone who wants to be heard, actually is. “For us, the organizers, it isn’t about vetting out the “best” bands or the “coolest” music – it is a chance to create an opportunity for everyone to see what their friends, neighbors, and fellow citizens can offer our wider, cultural community.” The event is “a labor of love” for the team, she added, which aside from a paid intern consists of a team of dedicated and passionate volunteers. Make Music Worcester is now in its third year and is only gaining momentum. “People remember us now from years past,” said Hardy-Lavoie. The event has helped forge relationships with musicians and other organizations in the city, which has been a huge help in growing the festival. This year will see Queen Mother Francesca Abby, an artist who specializes in African, Caribbean and World Beat music, as well as four a cappella groups ready to perform both classical and contemporary work. “We are really proud that we get to provide an outlet for the community to experience it,” said Hardy-Lavoie. With an average of 60 performers in past years, this summer looks to be the festival’s best yet — and not even rain will stop them. If a city-wide festival doesn’t sate your musical appetite, Worcester Community Cable Access (WCCA) is
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The festival has caused him a lot of sleepless nights, but DePasquale and the committee are determined to see it through. WCCA TV was established with the intention of providing ordinary people with the space to be heard, and they want to bring the same opportunity out of the studio and into the festival, to support local musicians and aspiring youth. After all, an outdoor public event like this “gets [the kids] out of the house,” explained DePasquale. Even better, the event is completely free, with an encouraged donation of a non-perishable food item for the benefit of Worcester County Food Bank. Profits from WCCA’s sponsors will go towards supporting WCCA TV, which will allow them to continue to provide free, diverse programming. The festival performers themselves are a fascinating collection of new and old pros, including Dave Frank, founder of the New York School of Jazz, and youth group Isosceles Groove. It promises to be a remarkable event, with both local and international, world-renowned talent, made free and accessible to the people of Central Massachusetts. They’ve already got big plans for next year. Make Music Worcester goes live on June 21st. Check out makemusicday.org/worcester for more info. Central Mass Jazz Fest kicks off at Cristoforo Colombo Park on June 22. For more info about performers, sponsors and more, visit centralmassjazzfest. com.
THE
SCENE
Events happening in Central Mass. Blackstone Valley Restaurant Week The first ever Blackstone Valley Restaurant Week kicks off on June 3! Blackstone Valley Restaurant Week allows people to sample food from a wide variety of Blackstone Valley’s best restaurants without breaking the bank. From June 3 until June 15, participating restaurants lower their prices and create a special menu, offering a three-course meal for only $25.19. June 3 - 15; participating restaurants around Blackstone Valley; $25.19; blackstonevalleyrestweek.com.
Taste of Shrewsbury Street It’s Worcester’s unofficial kick-off to summer! Take a journey through the exciting flavors of Worcester’s Restaurant Row — Shrewsbury Street! Enjoy delicious and diverse food, live music and local vendors all along the street. 5-9 p.m., June 18; participating locations on Shrewsbury Street; $25; tasteofshrewsburystreet.com.
Central Mass Jazz Festival Join us for a truly memorable experience. We’re here to provide audiences from all walks of life with pure and enjoyable entertainment. Artist tables, strolling entertainers, merchant and craft tables, and a world class music artist live in concert. Fun for the whole family, steps away from the best restaurants and shops in Worcester. We have put a great deal of effort into making this jazz festival unique and inviting. 12 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., June 22; Chrisoforo Colombo Park; free to the public; centralmassjazzfest.com.
Pintastic Pinball & Game Room Expo Do you love pinball? Look no further than Pintastic New England, which is the first of its kind, centrally located in Sturbridge, Massachusetts. Tons of fun for kids with a caricature artist, face painting, balloon animals, magic, and special tournaments and prizes, too! The adults can bring out their inner child with over 200 pinball machines set on free play, all while enjoying an ice-cold beer. Cosplay is welcome! June 27 - 30; Sturbridge Host Hotel & Conference Center, 366 Main St., Sturbridge; $5 $25; pintasticnewengland.com.
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NOW STREAMING
P!NK/HURTS 2B HUMAN MIKE WOOD
SHALLOW SIDE/SAINTS & SINNERS
THE CRANBERRIES/IN THE END JENNIFER RUSSO
JASON SAVIO When it feels like an artist is speaking directly to us, that’s the true power of song. Heartache, triumph over adversity, despair, depression, and so much more, P!nk’s songs resonate because we can feel them deeply. Throughout her two-decades-long career, P!nk has had her finger on the pulse of so many people’s life trajectories. On Hurts 2B Human, she opens up her heart yet again and lets us see her vulnerability while always toughing it through whatever life tosses in her path. Her lyrics are akin to intimate therapy sessions, but P!nk’s not relegated to a psychologist’s couch. She singing to the rafters on the world stage, offering up an uncensored listen into her—and likely our—deepest fears and convictions. Stand-outs include “Love Me Anyway”, a duet with country crooner Chris Stapleton about our insecurities in imperfect relationships, and the piano-driven “Circle Game”, a missed-childhood ballad that proves P!nk isn’t afraid to reflect on losses from long ago as well as present-day growing pains. P!nk’s trademark of late are her soaring anthems, and they leave no stone or life story—lost love, motherhood, addiction, death and denial—unturned. And while these songs don’t necessarily lend themselves to an uplifting pop album, Hurts 2B Human offers listeners a gold mine and, simultaneously, a land mine exploding with emotion—pouring from the mouth of an artist who still has a lot to say and sing about even 20 years after her debut. For more info, please visit pinkspage.com.
It has been brewing for some time and now it is finally here. After a series of EPs, Alabama-bred rockers Shallow Side have released their full-length album, Saints & Sinners. But was it worth the wait? The quartet that is Shallow Side certainly comes out swinging. “Revival” provides a bombastic opening worthy of teeing up the rest of the album. Heavy hitters also include the sledgehammer power chords of “Sound the Alarm” and the neo-guitar mania of “Carry On.” Shallow Side’s real bread and butter is when they mix in their southern DNA on the title track with a steamy twang. The lyrical content of “Drugs & Lust” and the aforementioned “Saints & Sinners” is down-the-pipe generic rock fare, as their titles suggest. It’s when singer Eric Boatright talks about a failing relationship and the unwanted desires that stem from it in “Temptations” that you start to listen more to what he has to say. As hinted at on their shorter releases, Shallow Side has a knack for big, strong choruses backed by surging melodies. It’s what helps keep them from being a sluggish, boring 21st century rock band. There are hints of 80s glam flair in some of the vocals if you listen closely enough, notably on “Drugs & Lust.” But just a dash, not too much to bubble over into making you think you’re listening to a retro act. Shallow Side can provide a breath of fresh air at times on Saints and Sinners even if it is a bit uneven at times. For more, visit: shallowside.net.
After the heartbreaking death of Cranberries front-woman Dolores O’Riordan last year, I had wondered if the band was ever going to complete and release the album that they had started. A longtime Cranberries fan, I had mixed feelings about the idea. Overall, I am so glad that her bandmates took the time to puzzle together their instrumentals with the vocal tracks Dolores recorded beforehand, creating such a beautiful album to honor both her and the band’s three-decade legacy. We hear the previously released singles “In the End” and “Over Now” on this offering and the rest of the album is true to Cranberries style, with beautifully heartfelt and emotionally permeating lyrics. Meanwhile, Dolores’ voice comes through like the angel she likely now is. Strangely, many of the songs, as the album title might suggest, seem to express an ending and a desire to move on to the next place and see what it holds. The instrumentals on the album convey the sadness and grief of the surviving members clearly, yet with some glimmer of hope intertwined. Throughout the songs, there are elements of inspiration from The Smiths and The Cure, but all are still signature. There has only been one and will only be one band like The Cranberries, and this is a refreshing thought. Like other singers who have passed away such as Freddie Mercury, Michael Jackson and David Bowie, Dolores had a voice that you could never mistake for anyone else’s, and it is showcased respectfully here with no changes made to its purity. I found it leaving me wanting…not in a bad way due to the music in it because the music was wonderful, but because there is the reminder that this truly is the last time we will hear anything new from them. Though it was not the original intention when the album was first conceived, it is a beautifully crafted farewell to fans all around the globe. For the official website, visit cranberries.com
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"JACKQUEST GOES ON A FAMILIAR ADVENTURE" JASON SAVIO What do you get when you take one-part Zelda and two-parts Mario and mix them together? You’d think you’d get something awesome, but instead you’ll end up with JackQuest: Tale of the Sword. This game is a love letter to retro gaming complete with old school pixels and music and it can be a neat and likeable experience. JackQuest takes all you love about those other classic games and mashes them together, but it does so in what feels like a careless fashion. You play as Jack, an unassuming lad who has his world upturned when his beloved Nara is shockingly taken away by a giant green hand that bursts out of the ground. This sends our hero on a quest (see what I did there?) to find Nara. He does this with the help of Kuro, who is imprisoned in a sword by the same entity that took Nara. Kuro offers him to help Jack find Nara if Jack takes him along for the journey so he can break the spell that binds him to the sword. The sword then becomes Jack’s weapon of choice, and ends up being what he uses to slay all sorts of creepy and gooey monstrosities in a never-ending underground cave. And that’s just part of the problem with JackQuest—there is never a real change of scenery. Sure, you swim around in the water here and there (sound familiar?) but it’s still contained in the blue hues of this underground layer. Who wants to play an entire game that takes place in the same setting? The way the environment is set up and the challenges you face are straight out of Super Mario World. There are even linear, swinging balls of fire you must jump around. The thing with that classic game is that you had numerous settings and environments to explore, each with its own unique set of obstacles. JackQuest feels like a rerun at times, playing through the same challenges again and again. That’s not to say there this game is totally dry on creativity, there are some cool bosses that will make you have to strategize. But it could have been more, and when you’re trying to mimic golden games of yesteryear, it has to be more.
Performances!
Celebrate the 1st day of summer with FREE music at:
Demonstrations!
Elm Park Coes Pond Park University Park Worcester City Hall Common & additional venues across the city!
Lessons! Street Studio!
Karaoke!
Friday, June 21st Featuring a special evening concert on the Common from 5-8pm! For the full schedule visit: www.makemusicday.org/worcester
Presented by:
For more, visit: jackquestgame.com. t h epu ls emag.com
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PULSE SHOTS PHOTOS BY JUSTIN PERRY
BEER GARDEN ON THE GRID – WORCESTER
THE COMPASS TAVERN – WORCESTER
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"Feel the beat of the city."
BLACK & WHITE GRILLE – SPENCER
MEXICALI – WORCESTER
MEZCAL – WORCESTER
QUINN'S – WORCESTER
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ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE 435 Bar & Grill 435 Lancaster St., Leominster June 7: Lizzy Marquis June 14: Fred Ellsworth June 15: Brian Chaffee June 21: Dan Cormier June 22: Ken Macy June 28: Dave Harrington June 29: Matt Soper American Graffiti 113 Summer St., Lunenburg 978-345-1010 Art’s Diner 541 W. Boylston St., Worc. 774-530-6120 Wednesday: Acoustic Wednesday
Blueprint New American Bar & Grill 9 Village Square, Westminster 978-668-5580 June 6: Scott Babineau June 7: Brian Chaffee June 8: Midnight Sharp June 14: Tim & Lou June 15: Dan Kirouac June 20: Amanda Cote June 21: Lizzy Marquis June 27: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell June 28: Scott Babineau Boardroom 139 Water St., Worc. 508-757-6259 boardroomwoo.com Boulder Cafe 880 Main St., Fitchburg 978-345-0008 Breakaway Billiards 104 Sterling St., Clinton 978-365-6105
B-Man’s 140 Tavern 348 Redemption Rock Trail, Sterling 978-422-9763 140pub.com
Bull Mansion 55 Pearl St., Worc. 508-755-6070 bullmansion.com
The Banner Bar & Grille 112 Green St., Worc. 508-755-0879 thebannerbar.com
Bull Run Restaurant 215 Great Road, Shirley 978-425-4311, 877-536-7190 bullrunrestaurant.com
Barbers Crossing (North) 175 Leominster Road, Sterling 978-422-8438 barberscrossingrestaurant.com Friday: Bill McCarthy
Cedar Box Lounge 15 Hamilton St., Worc. 508-373-2314
Beatnik's 433 Park Ave., Worc. 508-926-8877 beatniksbeyou.com Wednesday: Wednesday Night Mayhem Thursday: Center Stage Karaoke Thursday: Musical Bingo with Wise Guys Trivia June 8: The Hip Swayers/Westboro Band Reunion Show June 14: Waiver Wire June 15: The Phase with Guests The 45 June 21: Black Palm June 28: Sunset Creatures Beer GardenWorcester 64 Franklin St., Worc. 774-530-9000 beergardenma.com June 25: Opening Reception with XS Band June 27: DJ Sisko June 28: Deadbeat – Grateful Dead Tribute June 30: Boston Beautease Billy’s Pub 81 Clinton St., Shrewsbury 508-425-3353 Black Sheep Tavern 261 Leominster Road, Sterling 978-422-8484 20 M a y 20 19
Chuck’s Steak House and Margarita Grill 10 Prospect St., Auburn 508-832-2553 chucks.com Classic's Pub 285 Central St., Leominster 978-537-7750 classicspub.net Columbia Tavern 28 Manning Ave., Leominster 978-751-8962 Compass Tavern 90 Harding St., Worc. 508-304-6044 thecompasstavern.com Friday: DJs Saturday: DJs June 7: David Garden June 14: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell June 21: Jay Graham Days End Tavern 287 Main St., Oxford 508-987-1006 June 8: Cactus June 14: Twinkle T's Acoustic Karaoke June15: The Big Guns June 21: Spaceout June 28: Ron Jones
The District 109 Water St., Worc. 508-756-2100 districtworcester.com Electric Haze 26 Millbury St, Worc. 508-799-0629 Firefly's / Dante's 350 E. Main St., Marlborough 508-357-8883 fireflysbbq.com Forty’s 1030 Central St., Leominster 978-534-7026 Funky Murphy's Bar & Grill 305 Shrewsbury St., Worc. 508-753-2995 funkymurphys.com Gardner Ale House 74 Parker St., Gardner 978-669-0122 gardnerale.com Monday: Blue Mondays - Live Blues! Thursday: Big Music Nights & Audio Wasabi June 7: Dan Cormier June 8: Hot Mess June 14: Paul & Leva Cataldo June 15: The Stone Line June 21: Deja Vue Acoustic Trio June 22: Phineas Gage June 28: Vinyl Junkies June 29: TNG Band The GazBar Sports Grill 1045 Central St., Leominster thegazbar.com June 6: Jae Mannion June 7: Kevin Shields June 8: Amanda Cote June 13: Dan Cormier June 15: Scott Babineau June 20: Joe Macey June 21: Dan Kirouac June 22: The Maniac Loves You June 27: Chris Terp June 28: Randy McGravey June 29: Rick Hamel Greater Good Imperial Brewing Co. 55 Millbrook St., Worcester ggimperials.com June 6: SK Marshall & Company June 7: Stomp & Holler Trio June 8: Hit the Bus June 9: Dave Alves June 14: Black Tap June 15: Colt & The Coyotes June 16: Joe Macey June 20: Chris Houston June 21: Double Dose of Dave June 22: Jay Graham June 23: Pete Towler June 27: Josh Briggs June 28: DJ Sprino June 29: Bridge Street June 30: Hip Swayers Greendale's Pub 404 W. Boylston St., Worc. 508-853-1350 greendalespub.com Sunday: Sunday Blues Wednesday: Wacky Wednesday jam
June 7: Clamdigger LIVE!!! June 14: Auntie Trainwreck: Rockin' the 'Dale! 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 June 7: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell June 7: Live Music Hotel Vernon 1 Millbury St., Worc. Indian Ranch 200 Gore Road, Webster 508-943-3871 indianranch.com June 15: Lee Brice June 23: Jamey Johnson June 29: Melissa Ethridge June 30: Kip Moore Legends Airport Rd., Fitchburg 978-342-6500 www.facebook.com/centericebar June 5: MB Padfield Leitrim's Pub 265 Park Ave., Worc. 508-798-2447 leitrimspub.com The Local Tavern 680 Main St., Holden 508-829-3008 Friday: Live Music Saturday: Live Music Loft 266 Bar & Lounge 266 Park Ave., Worc. 508-796-5177 loft266.com Wednesday: Music Bingo Wednesdays Thursday: DJ X Kaliber Friday: DJ Joe T Saturday: DJ Joe T Marty's Pub 225 Canterbury St., Worc. 508-754-0033 martyspub.com MB Lounge 40 Grafton St., Worc. 508-799-4521 mblounge.com Wedneday: Karaoke with Mikey Mic's Medusa Brewing Company 111 Main St., Hudson 978-310-1933 medusabrewing.com Michael’s Cigar Bar 1 Exchange Place, Worc. 508-459-9035 michaelscigar.com June 5: Dezi Garcia June 7: Neon Alley June 7: Neon Alley June 8: Hit the Bus
June 13: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell June 14: Jim Devlin Band June 15: Blue Light Bandits June 19: Dezi Garcia June 20: Mike Melendez June 21: The Royal Furs June 22: Doctor Robert June 27: Kevin Shields June 28: The Brumbletones June 29: Bittersuite The Mill 185 185 W. Boylston St., W. Boylston 774-261-8585 themill185.com June 6: Matt Soper June 7: Sarah Carcia June 8: Ken Macy June 13: Amanda Cote June 14: Jay Graham June 15: Sarah French June 20: Tim Leavitt June 21: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell June 22: Katie O'Brien Duo June 27: Night Train June 28: Scott Babineau June 29: Bill McCarthy Mill City Pub 19 Airport Rd., Fitchburg 978-342-2134 June 7: Dave Malouin June 14: Running With Scissors June 15: Prizm June 21: Zach Marquis June 22: Go Gadget Go June 29: Goldrush The Monument Tap 13 Central St., Leominster 978-798-4653 monumenttap.com June 7: Small Town June 15: Crosstracks June 20: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell June 21: One of The Girls The Muse 536 Main St., Worc. 508-756-6873 Nick's Bar and Restaurant 124 Millbury St., Worc. 508-753-4030 Olde Post Office Pub 1 Ray St., N. Grafton 508-839-6106 Padavano’s Place 358 Shrewsbury St., Worc. 774-823-3022 padavanosplace.com Tuesday: Padavano's Place $1000 Singer-Songwriter Contest June 11: Padavano's Place $1000 Singer-Songwriter Contest *FINALE* The Palladium 261 Main St., Worc. 508-797-9696 thepalladium.net June 6: Dio Returns June 7: Machine Gun Kelly - Hotel
Diablo World Tour June 8: Tech N9ne - It Goes Up Tour 2019 June 15: Backtrack: Final MA Show June 21: LIL XAN Performing Live! June 28: Reel Big Fish & Bowling For Soup June 29: Latin Roots Media Presents: Da Baby Park Grill and Spirits 257 Park Ave., Worc. Partner's Pub 970 South St., Fitchburg 978-345-5051 partnerspub.com Sunday: Karaoke Wednesday: Karaoke Friday: Karaoke Jun 29: Sean Daley Patsie Dugan's 49 Millbury St., Worc. 508-755-4155 patsiedugans.com 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 Saturday: Karaoke June 20: Kryngle Daly Purgatory Beer Company 670 Linwood Ave, Whitinsville 508-596-2194
June 21: Green Heron June 28: Dan Kirouac Rock Bar 81 Water St., Worcester 774-243-7000 June 7: Touch 2Much June 8: Sick Season -Alice in Chains Tribute June 9: Dezi Garcia June 14: Terminal Velocity June 15: A Night of Zeppelin @ ROCK BAR June 16: Dezi Garcia June 21: Yardsale Rejects June 22: Mason Vincent Band June 23: Dezi Garcia June 29: Whiskey Night Rye & Thyme 14 Monument Square, Leominster 978-534-5900 ryeandthyme.com June 6: Dave Harrington June 7: Jazz Depot June 8: Doctor Robert June 9: Zack Slik June 13: Finest Hour June 14: Dwayne Haggins Band June 15: De La High June 16: Mike Melendez June 20: James Keyes June 21: McKinley's Mood June 22: New Soul Review June 23: Amanda Cote June 27: Andy Cummings June 28: Carlos Odria Quartet June 29: Joe Grizzley Night June 30: Jay Graham Singapore Restaurant 170 Whalon St., Fitchburg 978-345-0132 www.facebook.com/ singaporerestaurantMA
Quinn’s Irish Pub 715 W. Boylston St., Worc. 508-459-2025 quinnsirishpub.com June 5: Mary Kate Gentile June 6: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell June 7: FM Live June 9: Graham Brown June 12: Mike Melendez June 13: Sam James June 14: Ashley Jordan June 19: Mary Kate Gentile June 20: Sam James June 21: Timmy Brown June 22: Graham Brown June 26: Sarah Carcia June 29: Kevin Shields
South Side Grille & Margarita Factory 242 W. Broadway, Gardner 978-632-1057 southsidemargaritafactory.com June 7: Ken Macy June 8: Ton of Blues June 14: Scott Babineau June 15: The Big Random June 21: Dave Malouin June 22: Second Chance June 28: Franco O'Malley June 29: Ryan Paz
Ralph's Chadwick Square Diner 148 Grove St., Worc. 508-753-9543 ralphsrockdiner.com
The Sunset Tiki Bar 79 Powers Rd., Westford 978-692-5700 sunset-tiki.com Wednesday: Chris Reddy Narragansett Promo
The Raven 258 Pleasant St., Worc. 508-304-8133 Wednesday: Open Mic River Styx Brewing 166 Boulder Dr., Fitchburg http:www.riverstyxbrewing.com June 8: Katie Dobbins June 9: Stouts & Snouts
Spruce Street Tavern 68 Spruce St., Clinton 978-368-1255 sprucestreettavern.com
The Tavern on Central 3 Central St., Ashburnham 978-827-1272 thetavernoncentral.com June 7: The Brother Stereo June 8: Go Gadget Go June 14: Ken Macy Band June 15: Meadowbrook Project
June 21: Ton of Blues June 22: Midnight Sharp June 28: Hot Mess June 29: Scott Babineau Tryst Lounge 320 Main St., Fitchburg 978-400-7906 www.thetrystlounge.com Friday: DJs Saturday: DJs June 8: Shugga Durant & JC The God June 22: JC The God Victory Bar & Cigar 56 Shrewsbury St., Worc. 508-756-4747 victorycigarbar.com Vincent's Bar 49 Suffolk St., Worc. 508-752-9439 Tuesday: Boogie Chillin’ Tuesdays Wachusett Brew Yard 175 State Rd. E, Westminster 978-874-9965 http:www.wachusettbrewingcompany. com June 8: Whitney Doucette Duo June 9: Brian & Kamryn Richard June 15: The Wolf Pack June 16: MB Padfield June 22: A Good Time June 23: Sean Fullerton June 30: Dan Cormier Whiskey Hookah Lounge 316 Main St., Worc. Whiskey on Water 97 Water St., Worc. 774-578-8829 Sunday: Video Karaoke with DJ Soup Wednesday: Video Karaoke with DJ Soup Thursday: DJ Cuz'n Kev Friday: DJ TecThreat June 7: Eric Paquette June 8: April Cushman Band June 14: MB Padfield June 15: Dock 10 June 21: Amanda Cote June 22: The Flat 5 June 28: Cover Story June 29: Acoustic Tandem Trio White Eagle Polish Club 112 Green St., Worc. 774-245-1991 Thursday: Musical Bingo Thursday: DJ Cookie Friday: DJ's June 15: Summer Kick Off Party with The Silverbacks June 15: Flock of Assholes t h epu ls emag.com
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OUT & ABOUT NATIONAL PRIDE MONTH
JOHN TROBAUGH
JUNE IS NATIONAL PRIDE MONTH: 50 YEARS AFTER STONEWALL In New England, the Pride celebrations in June are located in Boston, Providence, Portland and North Shore (Northampton was May 4). In Worcester, we recognize that we have too many colleges to ignore that population and we recognize that most people in Worcester attend at least one of the larger, regional Pride celebrations in June. As a result, we wait until the week of September 7th to have Pride here in Worcester (worcesterpride.org).
BOSTON PRIDE: June 1: 12pm-5pm - Pride Day; Faneuil Hall; Faneuil Hall Marketplace June 4: 6pm-8pm - Pride Lights; Blackstone Square Park June 5: 10pm - Black & Latinx Pride, Legacy; 79 Warrenton Street June 7: 6pm - Boston Dyke March Parkman Bandstand; Boston Common June 8: 11am-6pm - Boston City Hall Plaza June 8: 12pm - Parade; Starts on Copley Plaza - Ends City Hall Plaza June 8: 11am-6pm Festival City Hall Plaza June 8: 7pm-11pm - Boston Pride Youth Dance City Hall Plaza More Info: http://www.bostonpride.org/calendar/
PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND PRIDE: June 15: 11am-7pm - Rhode Island Pride Festival; South Water Street June 15: 8:30pm-10pm - Rhode Island Pride Illuminated Night Parade; Weybosset Street
NORTH SHORE PRIDE: June 20: Interfaith Celebration; Tabernacle Church; Salem June 21: Kick-off Party - Location to be finalized June 22: North Washington Square; Salem June 22: 11am– 5pm - Festival; Salem Common June 22: 12 pm - North Shore Pride Parade; Salem June 22: 5pm - 9 pm - Youth After Party; nAGLY; Salem June 22: 5pm - 9pm - Adult After Party; Brodie’s Pub; Salem More Info: http://www.northshorepride.org/
PRIDE PORTLAND: June 7-16: Pride Portland Celebration; Portland, Maine June 15: 1 pm - Parade; Monument Square June 15: 2 pm - 6 pm - Festival; Deering Oaks Park More Info: https://prideportland.org/
22 M a y 20 19
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24 M a y 20 19
420 IN THE 508: CANNABIS CAFÉS
ELLIOT MERCIER
The one time you can smoke indoors! Public consumption of marijuana is still considered illegal here in Massachusetts, but there might be a way to indulge in the substance in a social manner sometime in the future; Cannabis Cafés. Not here yet but possibly on their way soon, this form of establishment originally gained popularity in the Netherlands during the 70s. They were originally called Coffee Shops, because nothing screams be social like coffee breath and someone possibly blowing smoke in your eyes. After the usual pushback from government authorities concerning drug distribution, crime and morality, the establishments were ultimately welcomed due to the committee considering the distribution of marijuana in these places was more helpful than just leaving the inevitable selling of it by illegal dealers. This set the precedent for a setting similar to a typical bar with standard rules, but replacing alcohol with cannabis in all of its various forms. Back to the United States, there actually have been efforts ever since last year to popularize these kinds of safe spaces where common folk can smoke in a social space without having to worry about getting arrested. California currently has a few smoking lounges in operation, with the most notable being the Barbary Coast. New Jersey is working on their own smoking coffee shops with an apparent BYOB-esque policy where you bring your own samples to share and consume. There are two main obstacles to consider before any of these establishments can open in any area: clean-air and intoxication laws. Clean-air laws, first implemented in 1970, are a set of guidelines that are meant to enhance the well-being of humans by keeping emissions and pollution sources of any kind to a consistently healthy low. One of many reasons for why smoking indoors isn’t allowed is because of these guidelines, and this process will have to be reevaluated if we’re going to be allowing public use of marijuana indoors due to the inevitable health hazard that will be brought upon the lungs of any patrons and employees. Surprisingly, there was an American coffee shop shaped after the Netherlands model melodramatically called the World Famous Coffee Café in Portland, Oregon. The place ran from 2009 to 2016, ultimately being closed down due to a change in the state’s clean air laws. Intoxication laws are not the most straightforward subject but it’s also complicated by the fact that we still don’t seem to have a 100% reliable and quick way to gauge if someone is too high to drive home. For now, law enforcement will just have to gauge the level of inebriation by red eyes and unusual or dangerous driving behavior. Just like the myriad of medical dispensaries and hydroponic farms, it’ll only be a matter of time before we’ll be seeing Cannabis Cafés pop up all over Worcester County. Old bars and tiny tea shops might shut down only to pop up again to display Coming Soon signs, detailing all the edibles you can now have with your dark roast coffee, Chai tea or fruit smoothie.
9 HARRISON ST. WORCESTER, MA 01604 OPEN DAILY, INCLUDING SUNDAY 774.243.1760
MA.GOODCHEM.ORG
Please Consume Responsibly. For use only by adults 21 years of age or older. Keep out of the reach of children. Marijuana should not be used by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
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SPORTS & FITNESS
GET IN SHAPE FOR THE SUMMER TINA MORIN With summer right around the corner most people are either looking to get in shape for the summer or trying to maintain their fitness routines despite the great weather. If you are looking to get in shape for the summer, the best time to start is now. As the saying goes, "The best time to plant a tree was a hundred years ago, but the second best time is now". The same principle applies to fitness. There is no shortcut to long term success but there are a few simple methods that can help incorporate healthy habits into your life. Everyone starts somewhere and the best way to create a successful fitness plan is by setting your own goals. The key is to not only make your goals ambitious but also aligned with things that make you happy. Six-pack abs and size 0 dresses don’t often make for sustainable goals for most people. Fitness and wellness is a process and a solid foundation is very important. People are creatures of habit and it’s hard to change everything at once. If you are someone who never goes to the gym, start by signing up for two or three exercise classes per week. Consistency is key and the way to success is finding some new healthy habits that you can maintain in the long run. Another tip is to grab a buddy to join you on your fitness journey. Everything is more fun when done with good company. Find a friend who can motivate you, work out with you, and help you make better choices when it comes to nutrition. But be mindful of who you choose, because some friends are just better for wine nights and Taco Tuesday rather than squats and runs. Use all the support your circle can offer and find someone who is willing to make lifestyle changes with you. A very helpful change that can support your goals is to make fitness part of your existing routine. If you take the car to work but you can actually walk there when the weather is nice, leave the car at home. Try to sandwich exercise into existing habits, like doing 10 push-ups right before you brush your teeth, or 30 sit ups as soon as you wake up. Adding small exercises around your existing habits saves you time and ultimately helps you form a healthier routine. While building new habits and challenging yourself, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to do something that you don’t like. If you don’t enjoy working out in the morning, then don’t. If you don’t like playing soccer at night, then don’t. If you hate yoga, then don’t do yoga. The magic thing about exercising and being healthy is that there are a million different ways to do it. Try combining exercise with something that you already enjoy, like getting coffee with friends after a new workout class, to help you stay motivated. If you keep trying new things, there is absolutely no way you won’t figure out some type of exercise you find rewarding. Lastly, plan the work and work the plan. Don’t leave your health and fitness to chance. Put workouts down on your calendar and treat it as anything else you have to do during the day. It might be hard to commit in the beginning, but habits are formed by simply doing the same behavior over and over again until it comes naturally. With that being said, if your goal is to lose weight and get healthier, you must make sure the rest of your day aligns with that goal as well. Exercise is essential but nutrition is key when it comes to weight loss. You can’t out-train a bad diet and you want overall choices to be supporting that goal instead of sabotaging it.
Tina Morin is the Founder and Program Manager of MSC Strength & Conditioning. She is a StrongFirst Level 2 kettlebell instructor, CPT-certifies personal trainer, and Balanced Body Pilates instructor.
26 M a y 20 19
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FINDING
THE POWER OF TEA
JENNIFER RUSSO In many places in Europe, there is a tea time in the late afternoon, where people take a break from their day to sip a cup of tea and enjoy a few sweet or savory snacks. In Asia, there are ceremonies dedicated to the serving of tea and the leaves have also been used for medicine. As a matter of fact, next to water, tea is the most commonly consumed drink in the entire world. In some belief systems, it is thought that tea leaves can even predict your future. Though tea time is not ritually observed in America (perhaps because of that Boston Harbor situation), there is something to be said about a warm, soothing cup of tea any time of day. What makes tea so special though, is not only the way it tastes, but the many uses of it to calm, heal, invigorate, and nourish us. There are five “true teas” and these have different benefits to our bodies:
BLACK TEA This tea is what Europeans prefer, with a strong, somewhat bitter taste. Many people add milk and sugar to the tea to sweeten it. Studies show that it can lower cholesterol and high blood pressure. Chai tea is made using black tea, and adding cinnamon, cardamom, ginger and milk.
GREEN TEA Originating in China, green tea has a milder and almost citrusy character. Green tea has many health benefits such as lowering blood pressure and reducing risk of heart disease, reducing the risk of certain cancers, improving brain function, lowering risk of Alzheimer’s Disease and promoting fat loss.
OOLONG TEA This partially fermented tea can promote brain, heart, bone and dental health and reduces risk of high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. It can also reduce the risk of some cancers. This tea is excellent for inflammatory disorders and assists in digestion.
PU-ERH TEA This Chinese fermented tea is incredibly beneficial as it contains a good number of live bacteria that combat disease. It is highly oxidized and often aged. It increases energy and mental alertness, cleanses toxins from the body, reduces stress, aids in weight loss, and reduces risk of heart disease.
WHITE TEA The mildest flavor of all teas, the leaves are picked from the plant young and they do not go through an oxidizing process. It does not contain a lot of caffeine. Though it is much milder, white tea has a lot of the same benefits as green tea and is also thought to help slow skin aging. Any of these teas mixed with other delicious components (like flowers, grains, fruits and spices) are beneficial to your health. Perhaps grab a cup and a crumpet and take a break sometime soon! The pure and present light in me honors the pure and present light in you. Namaste.
YOGA POSE OF THE MONTH – LOTUS POSE The most basic of poses, simply sit cross-legged on the floor or a mat with a straight spine and your hands either together at your heart (prayer hands) or resting comfortably on your knees. If placed on your knees, place your hands palms down for grounding or palms up for receiving. This is an excellent pose for calming or meditating and focusing on breathing, while working on your posture and mental clarity. Best done in a quiet space or in nature, perhaps with some soft music. t h epu ls emag.com
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ART & CULTURE
INSIDE THE WORLD OF A WORCESTER FIRE BREATHER SUZANNE KARIOKI
If you’re ever watching 2017’s “The Greatest Showman,” you might notice a local face amongst the performers. Sasha the Fire Gypsy is a dancer, contortionist, acrobat and much more; and her list of talents is especially surprising when you consider that she had never done any sort of performing until she found her passion in fire arts. “I didn’t even know fire dancing existed until I was 18 in 2005 and living in Florida,” she explains. “I saw them [fire breathing performers] gather on Clearwater Beach to just play together and practice. That was the moment everything in my life changed.” Sasha had always been drawn to fire “from a very young age.” At Assabet Valley Regional Vocational High School, she majored in Metal Fabrication, a demanding but rewarding line of work that makes heavy use of heat and fire. “I just loved how you could use fire and electricity to create beautiful works of metal art,” she said. While Sasha learned the art of metal fab in school, she learned the performing arts through rigorous practice and under the guidance of the same performers who inspired her during her time in Florida. “I learned as much as I could from them and practiced during every waking moment. It became my life.” In Florida, Sasha learned how to put on a show, but also how to use and build new props. By the time she returned to Massachusetts in 2008, she had the skills and knowledge to retire from metal fab and become a full-time performer. As much as she loves her job, being a full time artist involves an incredible amount of work and sacrifice behind the scenes. “A lot of people think performing is an easy ‘you just show up and do a dance for 20 minutes and go home’ kind of a thing,” she said. “Running a business, especially a performance business, is the kind of business when you’re never off the clock.” When she’s not in front of an audience, she is often awake far beyond midnight, answering emails, sewing her own costumes, practicing new choreography and writing contracts. Her performing hours are hectic too: “Occasionally, I will have three events on a night with different costume changes. It can be pretty chaotic!” But even that chaos doesn’t slow her down; her already impressive portfolio also includes a separate business called New England Mermaids, which provides “professional and realistic Mermaid entertainment for both swimming and dry events” along the east coast. Their mermaid tails are all custom made, designed to look and feel real, while the performers themselves are trained to be expressive while interacting with guests and filming under the water. After over a decade of full time performance, Sasha still loves what she does:
“I LOVE WHAT I DO BECAUSE IT BRINGS JOY TO PEOPLE OF ALL AGES. JUST WATCHING THEIR REACTIONS AS I PERFORM MAKES ME SO HAPPY.” Indeed, it’s hard to not be stunned by what she can do. One of the videos on her website shows her eating and breathing fire, effortlessly twirling sparklers and flaming batons while quite literally bending over backwards for a mesmerized crowd. In another performance, she’s a dream of lights, dancing in a costume fitted with wings dotted with LEDs. In yet another video, she floats in the air on silk, held in an aerial hammock using not much more than her own strength to stay afloat as she soars over the audience. Although she performs as Sasha the Fire Gypsy, she has a whole host of talents that put her in very high demand; even while pregnant and currently plagued with morning sickness, she’s still working hard. With typically one performance a week, she’s always on the move, bringing joy to thousands of satisfied customers. Want to book an unforgettable performance for your next event? Visit firegypsy. com for a quote and updates on what she’s up to next.
30 M a y 20 19
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STYLESAVVY: SUMMER STYLE FOR EVERY OCCASION
APRIL GOODARD Finally June is here. It is the month that marks the very beginning of my personal favorite time of year - summer! That’s right, it’s here again! The weather is warming, the kids are getting out of school, festival season is here and the beach is calling. But between summer activities and the rising temperatures, it can be difficult to both dress for the occasion and remain rocking the latest trends (because although that sleeveless knit shirt looks great, who can really wear a ‘knit’ in 90 degrees?). Read on to discover the perfect outfit and style solutions for any get-together, event and occasion for the warm season ahead.
DAY AT THE BEACH:
I know, I get it: many people dread swimsuit shopping. Between not being able to find a matching top and bottom to just flat out sad store lighting that makes everything (and I mean everything) that you put on look not-quiteright, shopping for beachwear can make you want to run in the other direction. But, rest assured: one of the biggest trends of the season is the edgy one piece. While a one piece suit is typically regarded as somewhat matriarchal (can you say ‘mommy suit’?) recent designs for the one piece can be found in bright colors, different materials and textures, and are friendly to all shapes and sizes. And the best part? No need to dig through piles of clothes to find the matching top or bottom in your size. One and done.
DAY AT THE PARK WITH THE KIDS:
Who loves packing up your kids, the neighbor’s kids, the dog, and an overabundance of snacks and beverages and lugging everything over to the park? This, all while trying to maintain some standard of fashion-forwardness and functionality (because let’s be honest, at this point your tired, it’s hot, and you are pretty confident that your two-year-old can far outrun you the second you turn your head). For hot days, I always like to stick with cotton-based distressed denim shorts with the tiniest bit of stretch to them so that you are not restricted in mobility. For a top, again go for a cotton-based tank (because cotton is breathable) with a cool detail like a tie-front or a cropped cut. Throw on a cool, neutral pair of trainers and maybe add in a matching baseball cap to keep the sun out of your face, and you have one very stylish “I’m a mommy in the park but still cool” outfit.
FESTIVALS:
Festival season is so fun because it gives a rare opportunity to experiment with loads of different styles - and virtually nothing is off limits. Don’t be afraid to play around with bright colors (hello neon tops!), jewelry, and makeup. This is an opportunity to try something new, so just go for it! I always like the classic destroyed denim skirt or shorts with a brightly coloured sports-bra or cropped top. You can layer a loose t shirt, jacket, or jewelry over it. There is no wrong answer here, and there’s no time like the present to try something new!
32 M a y 20 19
Don’t WorRy... Be hopPy!
There is no wrong direction Just a left or a right so choOse your adventure!
Don’t WorRy right coast ipa
Be HopPy left coast IPA
Have a great IPA! 72 Shrewsbury StreEt, Worcester, MA (774) 239-1555 ● wormtownbrewery.com
LUXE LIST: 5 STYLE FINDS FOR AN EXCEPTIONAL SUMMER SEASON MERILEE KERN
As summer rolls back around, now is a great time to spearhead a renewed effort to look and feel your best. To achieve this worthy goal, you’ll want to spruce up your seasonal style—whether that means your clothes, accessories, beauty regime or all of the above! Toward this end, below are a few fab finds that can give you more panache this summer.
POP BAG USA CUSTOMIZABLE HANDBAGS Handbag purveyor Pop Bag USA was born in Tuscany and produced in Florence, Italy by local craftsmen whose unique and unparalleled workmanship ensure the utmost standards with the highest quality pebbled and Saffiano leather options. As the movement toward sustainable fashion grows, Pop Bag is an ideal purse for longevity. With four customizable components—a front, back, strap, and interior pouch—a choice of leather, and a multitude of modern finishes for you to choose from, the possibilities for expression are endMargaret Pattillo less. Design the bags based on your destination, mood or the season. Change colors, materials and hardware. Or, if you want it done for you, there are ready-to-wear bags from totes, mini-bags and backpacks to phone bags and envelopes. popbagusa.com.
SKIN ACTIVES’ ‘DOUBLE ACTION HAIR SERUM’ For those unhappy with their thinning or grey hair, the Double Action Hair Serum from Skin Actives may just be the answer. This serum is specifically formulated to help replenish thinning and gray hair to give it more youthful flare. The product’s key ingredients, Keratinocyte Growth Factor (KGF), Methionine Sulfoxide Reductase (MSR) and nourishing actives, work together to create hair that looks thicker, stronger and healthier while also maintaining its natural color in the process. Skin Actives says that users begin to see results in just two to six months. Now that’ll put a spring in your step! skinactives.com. Skin Actives
DR. MED. CHRISTINE SCHRAMMEK SKINCARE LINE For those focusing on skin health and wealth this season, next are medically-inspired skin care products from the Dr. med. Christine Schrammek collection by Kosmetik, an elite, 60-year-old German skincare company. Each item in this highly effective product in the line was specially designed for all skin types by dermatologist Dr. Schrammek-Drusio. The company offers a skin care portfolio with seven product lines addressing different skin types and concerns, with each combining innovative and proven ingredients to optimize Dr. Med. Christine Shrammek skin health. drschrammekusa.com.
FIND U RINGS ONLINE JEWELRY STORE To amp up your fashion accessory game—especially on the engagement and wedding ring front—is FindURings.com, an online jewelry store allowing consumers to benefit from its deep industry knowledge about the modern-day ring marketplace. They have their own processing plants and offer tailor-made services to ensure whichever wedding, engagement or fashion ring design you select meets your distinct needs and Courtesy of desires. Plus, all of their rings are made at their own FindURings.com factory with no outside agent, so prices will be more favorable to a budget-conscious shopper. Whether you’re seeking unique tungsten wedding bands; titanium, sterling silver, stainless steel or ceramic rings, FindURings.com has fashionable styles for both men and women alike. findurings.com.
NOVICA ARTISAN FAIR-TRADE MARKETPLACE If you crave distinctive style and worldly sophistication and enjoy shopping for a cause, then NOVICA—the largest online fair-trade marketplace featuring beautiful hand-crafted products from all over the world— is for you. Their curated cache of artisans have been hand-selected, with many having overcome amazing odds by selling their goods. For example, the Blue Jasmine Batik Silk Scarf, designed by Java artisan Yuni Kristina, has expanded business into a global marketplace thanks to the help of NOVICA’s team. Originating in Indonesia, batik is a technique of wax-resist dye applied to whole cloth, or cloth made using this technique. Kristina hand-stamps the blue patterns on the ivory textile and adds red and black designs in batik. NOVICA Also noteworthy are glass-blowing artists Javier Gutiérrez and Efrén Canteras, who have worked together to preserve Mexico’s blown glass artistry. NOVICA features many other authentic crafts from around the globe and the company has sent more than $89.9 million to their artisans to date. novica.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—a travel, dining, leisure and lifestyle expert who spotlights noteworthy marketplace innovations, change makers, movers and shakers. She reports on exemplary travel destinations and experiences, extraordinary events and newsworthy products and services across all categories. Reach her online at www.TheLuxeList.com, on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/LuxeListEditor, on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/TheLuxeList and on Instagram at www.Instagram.com/LuxeListReviews.
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