Worcester Mag December 22, 2011

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WORCESTER? TWENTY-NINE YEARS AND COUNTING, ORGANIZERS HOPE THE NEW YEAR’S EVE TRADITION CARRIES ON

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WORCESTERMAG.COM • DECEMBER 22, 2011

Kirk A. Davis President Gareth Charter Publisher x153 Doreen Manning Editor x235 Jeremy Shulkin Senior Writer x243 Steven King Photographer x278 Brittany Durgin On-line Editor x155 Rachel Bryson-Brockmann, Vanessa Formato, Paul Grignon, Janice Harvey, Josh Lyford, Gary Rosen, Janet Schwartz, David Wildman Contributing Writers Veronica Fish Contributor Tammy Griffin-Kumpey Copy Editor Interns: Jacky Cheng, Pamela Fahlbeck

as the ball dropped on First Night in Worcester? That’s the question our contributor Barbara Taormina asks in this week’s cover story. As First Night reaches it’s 30th anniversary this year, we take a look at this annual event that most of Worcester talk proudly of but many never attend. Examining the evolution of this event – from birth of a party to its transition into a family fun destination, we ask some tough questions, and brace ourselves for the answers. Now go buy your First Night button, don your (warm) party hat and get ready for First Night Worcester!

H

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January 7 at 7:30pm Discounts available for members, groups, kids, students, and WOO card holders. TheHanoverTheatre.org 877.571.SHOW (7469) 2 Southbridge Street, Worcester, MA 01608 Worcester Center for the Performing Arts, a registered not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization, owns and operates The Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts.

DECEMBER 22, 2011 • WORCESTERMAG.COM

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{ citydesk }

WOO-TOWN INDE X

A weekly quality of life check-in of Worcester

December 22 - 28, 2011 ■ Volume 37, Number 16

Money matters

Citizens United has already impacted money in state politics, but with some surprises Ten thousand firefighters and mourners flood Shrewsbury Street to celebrate Worcester firefighter Jon Davies, who was killed looking for occupants caught in a Dec. 8 blaze. +10 for the help and concern of fire departments throughout the region who volunteered themselves to man Worcester’s stations so local firefighters could attend the service. Local housing official Gabriel Cortes, a former employee of the Oak Hill CDC and South Worcester Neighborhood Improvement Corporation, arrested for allegedly funneling federal home deleading and revitalization grants to contractors who offered bribes. -4 The city’s ban on blunt wraps, thick rolling papers made of tobacco leaves often used for rolling cigars or “jazz cigarettes,” withstands its first legal hurdle. Good on the city’s pocketbook, but there are still plenty provisions to the law that have yet to be so fortunate. +1 City Council votes to send a list of needed repairs, renovations or all-out rebuilds for Worcester Public Schools to the Massachusetts School Building Authority. The repairs were identified by the WPS administration. +2 District Councilors Paul Clancy, Barbara Haller and Joff Smith all sit through their last City Council meeting, as three new faces and a new mayor await Worcester on the other side of 2012. 0 After a mistrial in the fall, Benjamin Makinen, the killer of Shelleigh Wilcox on Lancaster Street in 2008, goes back before a jury. The public and jurors are subject to the grisly details all over again. -3 Patriots do their part to put an end to “Tebow Time” mania with a 41 to 23 win in Denver on Sunday. +2

Jeremy Shulkin

I

n January 2010, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of a group called Citizens United, which freed up corporations to spend unlimited general treasury funds on political expenditures to influence campaigns. The consequences of the ruling, depending on who you talk to, has overturned a provision of the 2002 McCainFeingold campaign finance reform act that either limited freedom of speech or caused an affront to fair elections decided by individual voters. The Supreme Court’s ruling in Citizens United v. FEC did create some changes to campaign finance reporting in the state and spurred some Bay State legislators to try and enact change on both the state and federal levels. In November, Congressman Jim McGovern (D-Worcester) introduced a bill in the House of Representatives that would establish a constitutional amendment overturning the Supreme Court’s ruling and earlier this year State Senator Jamie Eldridge (D-Acton) filed three items in the statehouse in the hopes of blunting Citizens United: two bills relative to the disclosure and accountability for corporate and union political spending, and a resolution in support of McGovern’s amendment. (Any change to the constitution requires the ratification of three-fourths of the 50 states.) “The supreme court is systematically ruling in favor of corporate rights over individuals,” McGovern objects. “There is

Craftershock, a craft fair held in a warehouse on Suffolk Street on Sunday, raises money for the Worcester Roller Derby team and gives shoppers the opportunity to purchase gifts from local artists. +3 This week: +11 Last week: -11 Year to date: +26

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WORCESTERMAG.COM • DECEMBER 22, 2011

a growing corporate rights movement,” he says, that “could destroy our political system.” But in Massachusetts the impact hasn’t been that dramatic – so far. “2010 is a new baseline,” says Kevin McNellis, a researcher at the nonpartisan National Institute on Money in State

elections,” he explains. This forced the state to create regulations governing this new power. The state already allowed traditional Political Action Committees (PACs), with laws that firmly stated a person – no corporations — could contribute no more than $500 to them. In return, those PACs could BRITTANY DURGIN

Politics, pointing to that year’s statewide elections as the first under the new federal and state campaign finance laws. “Essentially, there’s no control for the experiment.” So what has Citizens United done for money in state elections? The major change that’s come from the ruling now allows corporations to make independent expenditures – advertisements that explicitly identify a candidate to vote for – a privilege formerly unavailable to businesses in Massachusetts. (They could contribute to ballot questions, however.) Eldridge brings it down to the state level. “The Citizens United case overnight invalidated our state laws that prohibited corporations from spending money in

donate directly to a candidate’s campaign treasury. In response to the Citizens United ruling, the state established Independent Expenditure PACs, better known in political-speak as Super PACs. These can receive unlimited funds from people and a corporation’s or a union’s general treasury with the catch that they can’t contribute directly to candidate’s war chests. A loophole allows them to fund unlimited “electioneering communications,” such as the recent primetime ads tying Senator Scott Brown to voting with oil companies or his challenger, Elizabeth Warren, to Occupy Wall Street. None of these ads say the word “vote” or identify their challenger, a key stipulation because

V E R BATI M “[N]obody has nothing on me, because I have nothing . . . My thing is they don’t know. They’ll never know unless you say anything. They got no proof of anything.” --Gabriel Cortez, talking to a contractor who said he’d been contacted by the FBI about an investigation into Cortez allegedly taking bribes to steer U.S. Housing and Urban Development contracts to preferred clients.

they can’t coordinate with or come from a speciďŹ c political campaign. They can also fund independent expenditures, which advocate speciďŹ cally for the election of a particular candidate. In both cases, Massachusetts now requires disclaimers at the end of each ad so voters know who paid for it. The state now requires that all independent expenditures and electioneering communications by unions and corporations need reportage. Only 16 states require disclosure for both. “A positive that’s come out of this,â€? says the NIMSP’s McNellis. What’s surprising, however, is who’s pouring seemingly unlimited money into electioneering communications; it hasn’t been corporations. In the 2010 campaign season with 116 legislative and statewide races that included a contentious battle for governor, the Massachusetts OfďŹ ce of Campaign and Political Finance reports that nearly $11.6 million was spent on independent expenditures and electioneering communications, all by unions and other PACs. In the race for governor, which attracted most of the independent expenditure and electioneering communication dollars, the Republican Governor’s Association outspent the Democratic counterpart Bay State Future $4.64 million to $3.15 million. Locally, the only independent expenditures came from the International Brotherhood of Police OfďŹ cers Local 504 for advertisements supporting eleven city council candidates in this year’s election. McNellis says those numbers can’t completely be blamed on Citizens United, especially because of the partisan nature of the group and a high-proďŹ le race between Governor Deval Patrick and Republican challenger Charlie Baker. “It’s hard to say Citizens United got [the RGA and Bay State Future] involved,â€? he says. “As far as corporations spending money in elections, I’m interested to see what happens in this coming year,â€? Eldridge acknowledges. McGovern too believes it’s only because the law changed so recently that corporations haven’t yet taken advantage. Eldridge’s two bills would improve disclosure requirements for corporations and unions, require political advertisements to include disclaimers that identify their top contributors, ban contributions by foreign nationals and foreign corporations, and require corporate managers to earn approval from the board of directors before spending general treasury money on political ads and notify shareholders of these expenses in quarterly reports. He fears that without tightening up disclosure laws and loopholes, scenarios could play out that impact even the smallest of local races. For instance, a selectman or city councilor who opposes a large project could see a wealthy potential developer infuse an opponent’s campaign with tens

{ citydesk } of thousands of dollars in advertisements, something that could have a “chilling effect on democracy.� He still has to persuade some of his colleagues. “There’s still an education process going on,� he says, which means he’s been trying to teach his co-legislators how the rule changes will impact future policy and elections. For now, they’re all still in the committee they were sent to. McGovern understands changing the constitution is a “longshot,� but he wants to start the discussion. He’s currently looking for co-sponsors.

D A M N E D LI E S and STATISTICS

10%

— The percent-change in valuation to a Worcester real-estate parcel that some homeowners would like to see trigger more communication between City Hall and the owner, including the mailing of a detailed “property information data sheet� that would explain the adjustment.

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CHARLTON | HOLDEN | NORTH OXFORD | SOUTHBRIDGE SPENCER | STURBRIDGE | WEBSTER | WORCESTER

. n )) / ) +' '' n' %< DECEMBER 22, 2011 • WORCESTERMAG.COM

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STEVEN KING

STEVEN KING

STEVEN KING

STEVEN KING

Worcester Firefighter Jon Davies Appointed: April 4, 1994 Died in the Line of Duty: December 8, 2011 Laid to Rest: December 15, 2011

STEVEN KING

6

WORCESTERMAG.COM • DECEMBER 22 2011

STEVEN KING

MATT WRIGHT

STEVEN KING

STEVEN KING

BRITTANY DURGIN

BRITTANY DURGIN

STEVEN KING

DECEMBER 22, 2011 • WORCESTERMAG.COM

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{ worcesteria } PROTESTED: 50 protesters

from the Worcester County Stonewall Democrats, Occupy Worcester and others unafďŹ liated with organizations appeared outside Shrewsbury Street’s Coral Seafood last Thursday to protest a fundraiser for Woburnbased group the Coalition for Marriage and Family. In 2003 the Coalition opposed the state supreme court’s decision to grant homosexual couples the right to marry and have been lobbying to get a statewide vote on the deďŹ nition of marriage ever since. Others singled out during the protest were Worcester School Committee member-elect Donna Colorio for her attendance and support for the group (in November the CMF tweeted their congratulations to her, calling her a “long time pro-marriage activistâ€?). “Anytime there’s the existence of this kind of group it’s a threat until there’s a federal standard,â€? said John Trobaugh, president of the Worcester County Stonewall Democrats and former school committee candidate. Both Colorio and the Coalition for Marriage and Family did not respond to requests for comment.

Jeremy Shulkin

THE OK CORAL: Coral Seafood found itself in the unfavorable position of mixing politics with business. The restaurant, which has held fundraisers for GLBT causes in the past, was contacted by protesters before the meeting asking them to cancel the event, something owner Jim Voyiatzis said he couldn’t do. Instead, he sent an email stating his disagreement with the group dining inside, but asked those outside to focus their message on CMF and not the restaurant. Protesters were fed free pizza and hot chocolate by restaurant staff. “Some people think I encouraged the protesters,â€? says Voyatzis. “The protesters were going to be there whether we wanted it or not.â€? As for the hot chocolate, “It was a cold night, I thought it was the right thing to do ‌ we’re in the business of taking care of people.â€? Still, CMF members were not happy, following up with some “very angryâ€? phone calls. “I thought we did a good job of taking care of both groups,â€? Voyiatzis said. GIVING THEIR GOODBYES: With

city councilors Paul Clancy, Barbara Haller and Joff Smith’s terms ending last Tuesday, well-wishers, including former local politicians Tim Cooney, Juan Gomez, Tim Murray and Tom White, ďŹ lled up the Esther Howland chamber at City Hall for the year’s ďŹ nal city council meeting, where the three outgoing councilors received warm speeches from their counter-parts. Some were a little non-traditional, like Konnie Lukes’s re-tooling of three verses from “A Visit from Saint Nicholas,â€? with one speciďŹ cally for Clancy, Haller and Smith. As Mike Germain predicted, Smith took the opportunity to roast his co-councilors, giving each a parting gag gift (for a full list, head to our blog). After all the seriousness had settled, councilors praised Clancy on his knowledge, convictions and the learning experience that came with sitting next to him, Haller for her commitment to her district and her intelligence and Smith for having to deal with the district that had the most emergency issues over the past six years from the ALB to damaging ice and snowstorms, as well as his zeal for the trafďŹ c and parking subcommittee.

PETTY PICKS HIS SUBCOMMITTEES: Mayor-elect Joe Petty released his standing committee assignments for the next City Council right before press time this week. Economic Development, regarded as one of the most sought after and impactful subcommittees, keeps Rick Rushton and adds O’Brien and George Russell — a boon to trade unions hoping to land bids on future government-subsidized projects. Public Health, which will settle the chicken debate, loses chair Phil Palmieri (now chairing Public Service and Transportation), who had used it to muscle through tougher regulations on cigarette sales and was to continue leading hearings on the chicken ordinance. Kate Toomey slides into Clancy’s long-held spot as chair of Public Works and Sarai Rivera, who had District 4 youth engaged in her campaign this fall, takes the lead on the Youth, Parks and Recreation committee. As for TrafďŹ c and Parking (“no worse committee on the council,â€? Germain said last week) which has been presided over by Smith, his District 1 replacement Tony Economou takes over as chair. CAN THAT BE REDEEMED FOR FREE TICKETS?: A MassDOT study released

Tuesday afternoon found that the state’s public use airports rake in $11.9 billion in “total economic activity.� According to the study, Worcester Regional Airport employs 418 people with a payroll of nearly $14 million and an economic output of $51.5 million. While that number may sound high, it’s lower than six of the state’s nine commercial service airports, with only Provincetown Municipal Airport ($27.7 million) and New Bedford Regional Airport ($26.3 million) generating less.

slants rants& commentary | opinions

The Rosen

EOPLE ONT HE STREET Have you ever been to First Night Worcester? AS K E D O N M A I N ST R E E T

Report

Lower our taxes, not our body mass index Gary Rosen

E

ven before being sworn in, Mayorelect Joe Petty will have to make the first important decision of his administration—appointing the chairpersons and members of the 11 council standing committees. Many city residents think that Petty will be making a whopper of a mistake if he reappoints District 2 Councilor Phil Palmieri to chairman of the Public Health & Human Services Committee. Growing up, Palmieri surely didn’t participate in the Junior Achievement program. As chair of the Public Health Committee for the past two years, he has shown a complete lack of understanding of America’s free-enterprise system. And while highly respected gynecologist and obstetrician Dr. Dale Magee is public health commissioner, it is the noncredentialed Palmieri with his Napoleon complex who thinks of himself as Worcester’s real health czar.

Over the years, the city council’s Public Health Committee has fought to maintain an effective public-health department in a city with a changing and less affluent population. It has provided support to the Worcester Senior Center, pioneered the installation of a handful of yellow boxes for safe disposal of needles and syringes, waged the battle against the Asian Longhorned Beetle, and advocated for human rights and the equality of women and the disabled. It also oversees the annual distribution of millions of dollars of federal communitydevelopment block grant funding to deserving local agencies. But Palmieri, who got almost as many blanks as votes running unopposed in the November election, has steered the aforementioned committee in a new and ridiculous direction. With tofu and soy in one hand and prunes in the other, he pushes public-health nannyism to rid Worcester residents of some bad habits, namely smoking and unhealthy eating. Empowered by a leaderless city council,

he boasts that he’s protecting us from tobacco and fast-food corporate giants. Ignoring more pressing issues, Palmieri and his colleagues accomplished nothing by banning the sale of tobacco products at a mere 10 percent of outlets (mainly pharmacies) while allowing the other 90 percent (mainly markets and convenience stores) to continue to sell these legal products. Nobody stopped smoking because of that ineffective feel-good legislation. It’s ironic that Worcester’s selfproclaimed health guru is the city councilor most responsible for turning Shrewsbury Street into the high-calorie food destination that it is. Now in a bad economy, when food establishments need customers and customers want value for their dollar, Palmieri wants menus changed and portion sizes decreased. Evidently, he thinks that we are too fat, too lazy and too stupid to eat right and to provide nutritious meals for our children. So he thinks up more silly legislation to save us from obesity, diabetes and a sedentary lifestyle. If we let the city council into our fastfood establishments and restaurants, soon they’ll want entry into our kitchens at home. They’ll search our cupboards, refrigerators and freezers and confiscate the bacon, sodium-filled canned soups, devil dogs and ultimate butter popcorn. It can only be a matter of time before the Worcester city council sets its sights on our bedrooms. In any case, Councilor Palmieri should be pleased to learn that one of my New Year’s resolutions is to eat better and healthier in the coming year. But I won’t stop entirely eating Big Macs, Whoppers, extra-crispy chicken and fries. And I know that in 2012 our city councilors won’t stop providing me with plenty to chew on for my Worcester Mag columns. Happy New Year to them and to all of my readers.

I’ve never been, had other things, life happens.

Joe Piskala WORCESTER

I have not. I usually go to Boston.

Lydia Rivera WORCESTER

Is that a club? No I have not. I only work in Worcester.

Lucio Felcio NEWTON

I don’t like big groups of people like that.

Matt Fortin WORCESTER

No. I like to stay inside where it’s warm.

Sheree Perkins WORCESTER PHOTOS BY STEVEN KING DECEMBER 22, 2011 • WORCESTERMAG.COM

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{ coverstory }

Has the Ball Dropped on First Night Worcester? TWENTY-NINE YEARS AND COUNTING, ORGANIZERS HOPE THE NEW YEAR’S EVE TRADITION CARRIES ON.

Barbara Taormina

When the clock strikes 12 on New Year’s Eve in Denmark, people don’t toss confetti, blow a horn or lay a big kiss on whoever is standing nearby.

The Danes, descendants of the Vikings, grab some tableware, head outside and fling plates, bowls and mugs at the front doors of their friends and neighbors. A large

traditional New Year’s Eve abandon. “When you walk down the street the joy is palpable,” says Joyce Kressler, executive director of First Night Worcester. Kressler, who will soon be watching her 14th (and last) First Night unfold, says she and the board of directors start every celebration from scratch. “We listen to feedback, and we have surveys,” she reveals. “Each year, there has to be a morphing and a sensitivity to what people want to see and do.” First Night Worcester takes a full year and hundreds of

most of the bills. In 2000, more than 175 communities threw First Night parties. This year, it’s down to around 60, and dropping like a New Year’s Eve ball in Times Square. Last week, the First Night committee in Leesburg, Va., announced it was calling it quits because it was out of money. The volunteers who run First Night in Port Huron, Mich., also decided to cancel their celebration because of dwindling funds and thinning attendance.

thousands of dollars to produce. It’s one of Worcester’s biggest events and one of the best shots for residents to celebrate as a community. Ask just about anyone about First Night and they’ll tell you it’s great, they love it, couldn’t imagine the holidays without it. But most never actually go to it. First Night began in Boston on New Year’s Eve, 1975 and spread to Worcester in 1981. During the remainder of the ’80s and ’90s First Night rolled across the country with cities and towns of all sizes creating their own unique arts celebrations for New Year’s Eve. But over the past decade, First Night has been suffering from waning public interest and a slump in the donations, grants and corporate sponsorships that pay

Kressler said First Night crowds in Worcester range from 10,000 to 30,000 with weather being a major and often last-minute make-or-break factor. Headcounts are a little tricky since kids younger than 7 don’t pay, some events are outdoors and free and some people sneak into performances without buying buttons — you know who you are. Still, more than 90 percent of Worcester sits out First Night and the troubled economy has taken a toll on donations and sponsorships. In 2007, First Night received $210,000 from its fans and benefactors. Last year’s contributions totaled $152,000. “There’s been a huge dip in sponsorships and donations,” shares Kressler. “We’ve had to regroup and

PHOTOS SUMITTED

pile of splintered china on your doorstep is an honor, irrefutable evidence that you have many dear friends and are much loved. Clearly Denmark knows how to celebrate. But so does Worcester. This year, there are plenty of options for New Year’s Eve including clubs that showcase local talent, a masquerade ball, dancing and games at Ralph’s and a major clown krumping fest at the Palladium. But for the past 29 years, the city’s big New Year’s Eve party has been First Night, a community celebration that brings a variety of music, theater and interactive arts to downtown Worcester. Known for grand processions and fireworks that flood the streets and sky with color, First Night triggers a sense of camaraderie to go with the

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WORCESTERMAG.COM

• DECEMBER 22, 2011

STEVEN KING

{ coverstory }

run of deficits has eaten away at the organization’s cash cushion. In 2008, First Night had $177,000 in the bank. “This year we started with $60,000 – plus in reserves,” says Mackowiak. And First Night is facing more than just a financial squeeze. Rose Hayes is a member of the First Night board of directors and a former First Night Worcester president. And she’s a veteran of the 1981 First Night Worcester, the famous First Night that actually sold Joyce Kressler, executive director of First night Worcester, has decided this will be her last beer. celebration stating “I really think it’s time for new vision and new blood.” “I think that’s what kept it out of the red that year,” she laughs. of years. In 2008, the event lost $58,000. that means you get more careful, and you Hayes says that The following year it was $31,000 in the look more closely at where you spend back in the ’80s, downtown Worcester red, and last year, First Night’s deficit was your money.” had more stages and halls available for about $26,000. Organizers blame cold As the administrative costs of First Night performances; but over time, temperatures and forecasts of snow for the those venues have shut down or stopped running First Night have increased, the smaller crowds. organization has cut back on its spending renting. “You can go to First Night year after for events. In 2002, organizers paid “In the early years, we had a lot of year and have a great time, but the one $74,788 for performances. In 2009, First places where we could have activities,” night people always remember most is Night brought in $33,708 worth of stage says Hayes. “There were about 20 different the year it was really cold,” explains talent. spaces with all the churches, the Armory Mackowiak. According to First Night Worcester and the Voc. But everything has shrunk.” First Night has been able to cover its treasurer Dan Mackowiak, the First Night Worcester has also evolved losses with money saved from previous organization’s finances have been over the past 30 years. Originally years of contributions, but the recent trending downward for the past couple a community arts celebration that

culminated at midnight, it has become a family-friendly festival with the bulk of the entertainment wrapping up much earlier in the evening. There are only a handful of events after 8 p.m., and First Night’s big show is a button-plus event at the Hanover Theater. Admission is an extra $20. First Night has scaled back and adapted to those trends and more change is in the works. Kressler, who will be 62 in January, has decided this is her last celebration. She plans to stay on through the beginning of next year until First Night’s board of directors can conduct a search and find a new executive director. “I really think it’s time for new vision and new blood,” she says. “I would love to see a 30-something come in and take it in a totally different direction.”

FIRST NIGHT ROOTS

A new vision is usually a shot in the arm for an established event. But in the case of First Night, it might be worth at least trying to remember the past. Unlike a lot of organizations that spin a little history and give some credit to their founders, First Night Boston is oddly continued on page 12

A Christmas Greeting to all our Friends:

One Solitary Life He was born in an obscure village, the child of a peasant woman. He grew up in another village where He worked in a carpenter shop until He was thirty. Then for three years He was an itinerant Preacher. He never wrote a book. He never held an ofÀce. He never traveled two hundred miles from the place where He was born. He did none of the things one usually associates with greatness. He was only thirty-three when the tide of public opinion turned against Him. He was turned over to His enemies and went through the mockery of a trial. He was nailed to a cross between two thieves. When He was dead, He was laid in a borrowed grave. But nothing could keep Him in that grave. Three days later He arose! Twenty centuries have come and gone, and today He is the central Àgure of the human race and the leader of mankind’s progress. All the armies that ever marched, all the navies that ever sailed, all the kings that ever reigned have not affected the life of man as much as that One Solitary Life.

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.

John 3:16

May the Life, the Love, and the presence of Jesus Bless your homes this Christmas Season. The Lahti Family Lahti’s Jeep, Leominster DECEMBER 22, 2011 • WORCESTERMAG.COM

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{ coverstory } continued from page 11

mum on the details of its origin. That may be because of a nasty lawsuit that erupted between some of the original founders and First Night Boston over the First Night trademark and licensing rights.

And it might also be because First Night has grown so far away from its roots that its history has become irrelevant. First Night got its start in 1975 at a party in Back Bay hosted by Clara Wainwright, a quilt and fabric artist who genuinely believed that art knocks down barriers and builds connections within a community. Wainwright already had some experience launching community festivals — in 1969 she organized the Boston Kite Festival that’s held each year in May at Franklin Park. Wainwright’s timing was perfect. In 1975, a lot of people were celebrating the U.S. Bicentennial, a three-year long event that highlighted American history with exhibits, parades, ďŹ reworks displays and historical re-enactments planned by a committee appointed by Congress. But a lot of other people were celebrating at events planned by the

People’s Bicentennial Commission, a leftist group that highlighted the more radical ideas of the founding fathers. The People’s Bicentennial Commission argued that historical contributions from women, Native Americans, African Americans and other minorities were left out of the ofďŹ cial bicentennial program, which they felt was nothing more than a whitewash of the past. So it planned its own celebrations. When the ofďŹ cial bicentennial committee hired actors to throw crates of tea into Boston Harbor to commemorate the Boston Tea Party, the commission held the Boston Oil Party, an afternoon of activist theater where an efďŹ gy of then President Richard Nixon was tarred and feathered and empty oil barrels were tossed into the water to protest the oil industry’s role in the 1973 energy crisis. When former President Gerald Ford visited Massachusetts in 1975 to attend a re-enactment of the Battle of Concord and Lexington, the commission held a rally in Concord to protest Ford’s decision to pardon Nixon for Watergate. Pete Seeger, Arlo Guthrie and Phil Ochs provided the music. Boston had an appetite for upstart community celebrations and events and Wainwright and her friends thought the city might be ready for a different kind

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of New Year’s Eve celebration. So they started planning. They wanted a cutting-edge event where Boston’s young, innovative artists and musicians could perform on both indoor and outdoor stages. They wanted participatory performances with no clear dividing lines between the artists and the audience. They wanted to move beyond the tradition of getting drunk with a television blaring Guy Lombardo performing in Times Square and create an avant-garde alternative, because back in 1975 avant-garde still meant something. They wanted to call it the Boston Garden Variety Show, but they settled for First Night. It was six degrees on New Year’s Eve, 1975, but nobody cared. Thousands came and loved what they saw, heard and felt. Boston embraced the event and made it the city’s new New Year’s Eve tradition.

FIRST NIGHT WORCESTER

Charles Washburn made it to the opening round of Boston First Nights. A selfconfessed “festivalphile,� Washburn felt First Night took community arts to a new level.

Mimes performed in shop windows on Newbury Street, sculptors carved 400-pound blocks of ice in Boston Common, bell ringers played music from church steeples, and electronic composers debuted experimental pieces integrated with lasers of light. It was inspiring stuff back in 1975 when drivers were paying 44 cents a gallon for gas, Rhoda, Kojak and Cher had hit television shows and no one owned an iPhone. “It was a neighborhood festival, a cultural celebration and it was exciting,â€? remembers Washburn. In 1981, Washburn and other Worcester First Night fans decided traveling to Boston was entirely unnecessary. “A group got together and said, ‘we can do that in Worcester,’â€? he says. “And we became the ďŹ rst spin off from Boston.â€? Hayes, who was in her early twenties when First Night debuted, doesn’t remember much about the music she heard or the events she went to, but she does remember the atmosphere. “It was pretty small but really unique,â€? she recalls. “And it was exciting to be in downtown Worcester, which had always seemed a little dull, with all those activities going on.â€? Years later, when she joined the board, she learned what it took to put First Night together. “Board members were responsible for

{ coverstory } PHOTO SUMITTED

everything,” she says. “You would say, ‘I think this might be a good event,’ and you would own it and try to make it happen.” Others who worked on the early celebrations said the work involved was overwhelming.

“It was great fun, but it took a Herculean effort to pull it off,” recalls Jonathan Finkelstein, another former First Night president who got in on the ground floor. Still Finkelstein saw and appreciated

how Worcester grabbed the chance to celebrate as a city. “The community involvement was great,” he says. “People want to be together and enjoy things together. I think people crave that.” During the ’80s and early ’90s, First Night Worcester settled in. It also joined the greater network of First Night celebrations, First Night USA, created by the Boston founders but now managed by First Night Boston. First Night USA licenses each First Night spin off. Worcester pays $750 a year for the right to use the First Night name. First Night USA has also expanded the mission and scope of the event. During the ’80s, public-health organizations aggressively campaigned against alcohol and tobacco use. First Night was originally seen as an alternative to New Year’s Eve drinking. Over time, it became almost militantly anti-alcohol to the point where some celebrations began to feel a little like events for people in recovery. And while First Night was always inclusive, presenting artistic diversity became a First Night mandate even in the most homogeneous communities. In Rockport, possibly one of the least diverse places on Earth, Afro-pop and a reggae bands are mixed into a performance continued on page 14

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{ coverstory } PHOTO SUMITTED

continued from page 13

preference to local artists.â€? Massar said ďŹ lling the schedule with local talent draws the crowd and also makes ďŹ nancial sense. “If I hire a big name for New Year’s Eve, it means I can’t hire anyone else,â€? she explains. A favorite repeat event in Portsmouth has been the all-night Battle of the Bands. Anyone with a First Night button can vote to pick the winner. “We want events for younger people,â€? says Massar. “We’re cultivating the next generation of First Night.â€? North Hampton, MA also relies heavily on local bands for First Night performances and a lot of local teachers will be playing music, reading poetry and telling stories in Montpelier, VT. Worcester First Night offers a mix of local and imported talent. “We have a blend and it’s pretty deliberate,â€? says Washburn. “We go through cycles. If you were in last year, you’re probably not going to be in this year. We want to keep it fresh.â€? Kressler says the caliber of the performers on First’s Night’s schedule is phenomenal. According to Kressler, the local emphasis is now on youth performances and the events and exhibits generated by First Night’s school and

schedule heavy with sea chantey singers. First Night has also taken advantage of federal grant money available for arts education, and launched an educational arm of the organization that works local students on arts projects presented at First Night celebrations. As the event grew larger and more complex, the board decided to hire a director. By the time Kressler signed on in 1998, First Night had been reinvented. Instead of an edgy arts celebration that tried to involve people in creating art, First Night had evolved into a familyfriendly mainstream event where art is entertainment. People could still participate at craft-making tables and in sing-a-longs, just as long as they didn’t drink.

LOCAL TALENT

Although First Night has changed, one thing that has been maintained is its reverence for local arts. Some of the First Night celebrations that continue to thrive feature mostly

local artists.

Portsmouth, N.H., has a population of less than 21,000, but it draws First Night crowds similar in size to those that turn out for Worcester’s celebration. First Night Portsmouth’s executive director Barbara

Massar ďŹ gures her city’s event has been able to pull through some of the tougher times because organizers have kept it all local. “I take it to the nth degree for local,â€? she says. “We even say to performers that we consider everyone, but we do give

continued on page 16

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{ coverstory } Wondering what’s on the agenda for this year’s First Night celebrations in Worcester? We’ve compiled a few highlights – not a full blown directory, but enough to give you a taste of what you’ll find happening in the city on the last night of the year. Dr. Lisa M. Giarrusso & Dr. Gregory Livanos Diplomates, American Board of Orthodontics

Trent Arterberry 2 p.m. (ASL Interpreted at 2 p.m. only) and 3 p.m. “The Secret Life of Walter Manny” fuses speaking parts and mimed scenarios to tell the story of a lonely yet adventurous 8-year-old boy named Walter. He imagines himself as a secret agent, Indiana Jones, and a Daytona racer – daydreams that become problematic in his everyday life. Watch as his wild imagination saves the day in this one-man journey. Broad Meadow Brook Scavenger Hunt Worcester Art Museum 2-3:45 p.m. On this family-oriented scavenger hunt you will embark on a journey through nature like nothing you’ve ever imagined. Prizes will be awarded. Kite Making Workshop ~ Art In Motion 2 p.m.-5 p.m. Build a kite! Fly a kite! Take it home and make your friends jealous! These experts prove that kite flying isn’t just a summer activity by helping you build a kite that can be flown indoors. Girls Inc. of Worcester 3 p.m. Dear World: Voices of Worcester Girls is an anti-bullying program for middle-school girls. Participants work through the social challenges they face every day by expressing emotions and seeking empowerment through song, dance, rap, poetry, visual and graphic arts. Synchromaids YWCA 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. Most people have watched ballet, but have you ever seen it done in water? Complete with lifts and throws, the Synchromaids’ performance is the real deal.

and kazoo while singing and Rick keeps rhythm with his antique washboard and suitcase percussion. Community Procession to Fireworks 6 p.m. Head down to Worcester Art Museum and participate in the making of gigantic puppets and other fun accessories. The procession will begin at the Lancaster Steps and continue down Main Street just in time to catch the magnificent fireworks display. The Gnomes 7 p.m. MCPHS Auditorium Two This “whirled music” group performs a unique and multifarious blend of Irish, Scandinavian, Eastern European, Caribbean, and Latin styles, and even throws in some of its own creations. A great show for those of us who can’t afford airfare to all the grassy knolls of the world.

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AudioBody - Techno Comedy 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. Brothers Matt and Jason Tardy combine physical comedy with elements of technology, resulting in a showcase of unbelievable stunts, up-beat music, sibling rivalry and inevitable technological mishaps. Often described as Blue Man Group meets the Smothers Brothers, this dazzling duo is not to be missed.

Mark Verselli - Master Impressionist 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. Mechanics Hall - Washburn Hall Verselli has been described as someone able to impersonate both Nat ‘King’ and Natalie Cole, Archie and Edith Bunker, and Arnold Story Slam ~ Workshop & Performance with Norah Schwarzenegger -- and all in the Dooley ITTED same breath! And as if that isn’t 3 p.m. and 4-5:45 p.m. PHOTO SUM impressive enough, he’s also a Worcester Art Museum singer and a comedian. Norah Dooley, storyteller and co-founder of Massmouth, Inc. presents the workshop Deborah Henson-Conant “How to Tell a Kick Butt Five-Minute Story.” (pictured) Learn how to turn your silly anecdotes into 9 p.m. full-fledged stories complete with improv and Deborah Henson-Conant is an theatrics. A story slam will follow. electric harp player who’s all about breaking the rules. This Michael Cooper, Masked Marvels & Grammy-nominated harpist Wondertales guarantees a high-energy Cultural Center ~ Armenian Church - Main Hall performance combining 4 p.m. (ASL Interpreted at 4 p.m. only) and music, theater, storytelling 5 p.m. and humor. And in case you Appealing to viewers young and old, Masked aren’t sold already, legendary Marvels & Wondertales introduces an alternate guitarist Steve Vai has called world in which dogs wear hats and fish catch her “the Jimi Hendrix of the Harp.” children for sport, using candy as bait. Check it out for a spell-binding, unforgettable experience. David Foster & The Mohegan Sun All-Stars 10 p.m. Vic & Sticks Tickets sold separately. General admission: $30 or $20 with your 5 p.m. First Night button. Epworth United Methodist Church - Fellowship Hall Starting at 10 p.m., get ready to rock and ring in the new year with These musical storytellers promise to keep you entertained with their vaudeville style. A husband and wife duo, Vicki plays harmonic David Foster & the Mohegan Sun All Stars, featuring legendary

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youth programs. This year, there is an exhibit of kinetic sculpture from Worcester’s public schools, an improv comedy show and a multimedia antibullying performance by Girls Inc. There are also performances by Worcester’s Youth Orchestra and a high school jazz quartet. And there’s a deďŹ nite fan base for all of that. But Worcester is to metal bands what the Black Forest is to elves. And there’s a rich vein of other types of local music that

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First Night hasn’t tapped. Kressler said First Night has hosted a battle of local bands in the past, but the celebration is now trying to highlight underserved groups. Still, organizers recognize that a couple of generations are almost completely absent from First Night performance schedule and its crowds. Mackowiak said the 20- to 30-yearold demographic has been the most difďŹ cult group for First Night to attract. Worcesterites in that age group have been dismissing First Night for several years. Younger people seem to see it more as an event for kids and the middle-aged crowd. Some ďŹ gure they’ll get to First Night eventually, when they have their own kids, or when they get old. Maybe they will, if it’s still here.

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• DECEMBER 22, 2011

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loss. Hayes says First Night Worcester has looked at some of those options and is always searching for new ways to organize the celebrations and new things to add. She admits she gets a little frustrated when she hears people say there’s not much happening at First Night anymore. First Night directors see it as a quality versus quantity issue, and they feel quality is the way to go. Nobody is panicked about the future of First Night Worcester and no one has drafted a cancelation notice. But if First Night wants to continue as a citywide celebration that covers all bases and offers something for everyone, it might have to try and actually do that. And if Worcester, as a community, wants to keep its First Night tradition alive, people are going to have to do more than just talk it up. Residents who value First Night as part of the city need to buy a few more buttons and show up for a few performances. Kressler is optimistic about First Night Worcester’s future. “I don’t have a crystal ball, but I hope the tradition carries on,� she says. And she also hopes that people will look at First Night and see not what it’s missing, but what it’s offering. “When you realize that from 2 to 10 p.m. there’s all kinds of entertainment available for the price of a button and that children under 7 are free, it’s the biggest give away ever,� she offers.

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art | dining | nightlife

Vacation play time Taylor Nunez

It’s that time of year again. The holidays are here and families throughout the city and beyond are dealing with the blessed and cursed portion of the season – school vacation. Luckily for parents, aunts, uncles, cousins and older siblings PHOTOS SUBMITTED

charged with entertaining (ok, babysitting) during the postholiday crash, Worcester is a culturally rich city that offers activities aplenty to spend the holiday vacation learning, exploring and growing in creative ways. We’ve assembled just a few ideas to inspire you to get out with the youngsters and explore your options! Higgins Armory, a museum that sends visitors back

to medieval times with one of the few significant collections of knightly armor outside of Europe, offers several opportunities during the week of Monday, Dec. 26 through Saturday, Dec. 31 for families to experience a chivalrous adventure. The “Live Arms and Armor Show” goes beyond displaying pieces of armor, but gives the history of each piece, such as revealing who wore the piece and who made it. The show truly brings the past to the present, as described by Higgins Armory’s director of education Devon Kurtz. “Our Live Arms and Armor Show brings our collection alive. We tell the story of the hows and whys of armor in a fun and engaging performance with lots of visitor interaction,” he says. The show is free with museum admission and takes place at 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. If looking for an activity a bit more hands on, families can attend the Make-YourOwn Shield Workshop, where children and adults can learn the meaning behind the symbols (such as what those lions and bears really mean) and create a unique shield for themselves. This workshop is offered all day and at only $5 a shield, is an inexpensive, educational and enjoyable time for the whole family. There are also the Drop-In Swordplay Workshops taking place Tuesday, Dec. 27, and Wednesday, Dec. 28, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. Workshop participants are given the proper equipment and instructions and are only advised to wear comfortable clothing— including long pants and athletic footwear. The workshop is offered to anyone age 14 and older and those 10 and older can enjoy the workshop if accompanied with a parent. Space is limited so make reservations by calling the museum at 508-8536015. These workshops are offered throughout the year. Admission to the museum is $10 for adults and $7 for children ages 4-16. To see all Higgins Armory has to offer, be sure to check out higgins.org. The ever-popular Worcester Art Museum located at 55 Salisbury St. offers plenty of entertainment for families or for children who need some creative time to themselves. As Christopher Whitehead, manager of youth and family class programs at the Worcester Art Museum explains, “With so many options for pure entertainment for youth these days, the December workshops at WAM provide fun and education opportunities with artist-led activities and all supplies provided. Full-day options are available for parents that need to work or simply have a break.” Children of all DECEMBER 22, 2011 • WORCESTERMAG.COM

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{ vacation}

ages can take single workshops for $20 per workshop, with an additional $7 fee for nonmembers (extended-day mornings and extended-day evenings are $20 per child, per day and a supervised lunch is available for $2 per child, per day). Beginning Tuesday, Dec. 27, the Worcester Art Museum throws youth into a creative frenzy offering differing workshops depending on the age of the child from 10 a.m. to noon. Children ages 3-5 (accompanied with an adult) will be making their own winter-wonderland snowscape collages, while older children will be building art from the future, creating rocket ships, robots and their own imaginary space scene as they explore the future. In morning classes on Tuesday for those ages 8-10, children will search

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for landscapes and abstract designs that intrigue them before making their own printing block from their own sketch as well as multiple prints of the image they created. For children ages 11-13, these youth artists will use recycled materials to put together PHOTOS SUBMITTED their own book of art. To see all the Worcester Art Museum is offering during vacation week, call (508) 7934333 or pick up a class brochure at the museum. The EcoTarium, a unique museum featuring the elements of the natural world, is offering the Mount Washington Mystery for the investigative child. Happening Tuesday, Dec. 27 through Friday, Dec. 30, children will have the opportunity to track a mystery animal across Mount Washington as they attempt to solve a wildlife investigation. Children will be given special scientific tools to become a true sleuth. “The

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on Friday, Dec. 30 at 2 p.m., where families can meet animals and hear their interesting stories and learn unique facts about them. Admission for the one-hour show is $10 for adults, $7 for seniors, $5 for youth, and free for children younger than 6 years of age. According to marketing and public relations director Michael Arnum, attracting a youthful crowd to the garden is important. “I know it’s cliché but children are the future of horticulture and the horticultural society. We need younger people to get involved so they can carry on the tradition of growing and exhibiting plants, and appreciating the fine art of gardening,” he says. For more information on what the Tower Hill Botanical Garden has to offer, visit towerhillbg.org. Don’t be stuck in the house this school vacation week. Get out and enjoy all that Worcester has to offer!

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Mount Washington Mystery is based on an actual animal mystery that occurred in New England last year and adapted to fit the theme of the EcoTarium’s new exhibit, The Arctic Next Door: Mount Washington,” explains Julieane Frost, manager of communications and marketing at the EcoTarium. The investigation can be done as a self-guided activity anytime from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. during school-vacation week. A staff-guided review of the case takes place at 11 a.m. and a staff-guided reveal takes place at 1:45 p.m. and 3:45 p.m. For more information, visit ecotarium.org or 508929-2700. At the Tower Hill Botanical Garden on Wednesday, Dec. 28, children can create a winter craft from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and later enjoy a holiday concert with The Rafters at either 4 or 6 p.m. Beyond the seasonal theme, the Tower Hill Botanical Garden will be having Animal Adventure

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ArchieMy husband is a slob, and I can’t take it anymore. He didn’t used to be, or at least I don’t think he was. But now we go out to dinner and he looks like an unmade bed. It’s embarrassing and rude to the restaurateurs — I’m not kidding here, think flannel shirt and sweatpants and you’re on the right track. — Desperate Housewife

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Dear ArchieMy girlfriend is really great and we’ve been together almost three years. I really think it’s getting serious, but her dad is one of those jokers, you know? Tells the same jokes every holiday, thinks he’s funny but he’s really not. His brother is just as bad — he’s like his sidekick and equally unfunny. I want to ask this girl to marry me, but is that dooming me to holiday parties with this pair of Batman villains for the rest of my life? – Not Laughing Hey NotWell, you ain’t marrying dear ol’ dad are you? And I’m betting if you’re in a long-term relationship with this young lady, you’re probably already spending holidays with these unfunny dopes. I’d suggest you talk to your girlfriend about them, but there are a lot of women out there who really look up to daddy and she might ďŹ nd him hilarious. I’ll bet there are other relatives at these parties that feel the same way as you, and have ďŹ gured out how to make themselves able to get through it — follow their lead. Check out the rooms besides the one this delightful pair plop down in, and I’ll bet you’ll ďŹ nd allies. In the grand scheme of things I don’t think having an obnoxious in-law is grounds for not proposing to Miss Right.

Dear DH; I don’t know when the baseball hat — especially the at-brimmed baseball hat — the pajama pants in public or the saggy jeans became a statement in America, but I’m pretty sure in 500 years when they are analyzing our downfall they’ll all be notable turning points. Talk to him about it. Be direct and ďŹ rm, tell him you take pride in the way you look (and I’m assuming you do), and you feel like he’s stopped trying. It’s going to start a ďŹ ght, but from the tone of your letter it seems like this is a serious issue and one that needs to be discussed. If he’s not willing to talk reasonably about it or take your comments seriously, stick by your guns and tell him this is important to you.

ArchieWhere have you been? I haven’t seen your column in Worcester Magazine. Everything okay? - Concerned Reader Everything’s jake. The Archster was busy spanning the globe looking for the answers to those age-old questions. Now you just have to ask them. ASK Archie runs every other week here in WoMag—get YOUR questions answered via ASKarchie@hotmail.com or visit the Archie Blog where you can ask anonymously at http://askarchiewomag. blogspot.com/

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{ film }

A novel remake The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo Grade: A David Wildman

Remakes are dubious propositions. If a film was done right in the first place, why try to repeat that success? Usually the reasons are more financial than artistic. Mainstream America won’t flock to see a film with subtitles no matter how appealing the material might potentially be (a big exception to this could be “The Artist,” a silent film and my pick for this year’s Oscar winner).

The most common reason for the remake then is to pick up some extra money that’s perceived as already lying on the table. A perfect example is Swedish vampire flick “Let the Right One In,” which was defiled last year as “Let Me In,” with much of the moody artistry removed in favor of characters speaking English. “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” seemed like the latest entry to exploit that cultural void. Its all the more amazing then that this remake has surpassed the original. Director David Fincher is no Hollywood hack. Like some of the best newer directors these days he came out of the field of music videos, and is responsible for some true classics like the deliciously surreal “Fight Club,” the gripping, visually vibrant “Seven,” Oscar winning “The Social Network” and one certified clunker: the inexcusable “Benjamin Button” fiasco. He’s been successful enough that he can choose the projects he wants, and so when he decides to put his talents towards a remake, it is worth taking notice. After seeing Fincher’s version of the film, it is evident what he was thinking. When he watched the original Swedish version he must have been like Bill Belichick viewing a high school football skirmish. The film struggles mightily to present the scope of the story visually. The lead actor (Michael Nyqvist) is wooden and strangely uncharismatic; and although Noomi Rapace—the actress playing Lisbeth—is superb, she would have had to be incandescent to light up

the dreariness of the clunky production. Still, I liked it because I was one of the few humans that didn’t read Stieg Larsson’s books, and the characters are great and the story, although ultimately somewhat thin, is a strong and suspenseful one. Fincher took one look at that film, saw its glaring flaws and knew he could do it much better. Daniel Craig is a step up as the high-profile investigative reporter who solves a mystery on a secluded island after his attempt to bring down a corrupt corporate baron fails at the outset. He doesn’t actually do much more in the role, which still consists of a lot of dour sleuthing and screwing, and yet his onscreen presence as a leading man somehow makes it come to life. Rooney Mara takes on the Herculean challenge of equaling Rapace’s interpretation of Lisbeth, the damaged, brilliant, possibly Asperger’ssuffering girl that helps him as a researcher, and pulls it off with a searing display of energy, focus and physical bravado, especially the highly disturbing rape scene with her corrupt guardian. Fincher’s most obvious improvement is in the visual atmosphere. He opens with a mind-bending avant-garde credits collage to set the mood. Then he fills in wintery outdoor and chilly interior scenes very similar to the original with dazzling detail that almost makes the first film look like a charcoal sketch that he has rendered in color. Wisely, he doesn’t try to set the thing in America. He also does wonders with structure. Somehow the exact same story with all the added detail never bogs down, and moves with the stealth of a cheetah, building from scene to scene, playing off the strength of an excellent supporting cast, including Christopher Plummer, Robin Wright and Stellan Skarsgard. Of course the biggest drawback to a remake, especially of a mystery thriller, is that you know the ending already. Then again you probably read the book anyway, so even though you are aware of everything that happens, I think you will still enjoy this interpretation.

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Bison burgers are sure to please Michael Brazell

On a Friday night, four friends leaned back in their chairs, with clean plates in front of them, loosened belts around their waists, and hotly debated one of the important questions of our time: What is, if anything, the difference between buffalo and bison?

While the scientific answer is more nuanced, each of us was feverishly typing away on our smart phones to generally arrive at the same answer, which is, there really is no difference. The question had arisen, of course, because we were eating at Ted’s Montana Grill, a chain with only one entry into the Massachusetts market that specializes in bison meat. Chain restaurants are usually not the focus of Worcester Mag’s Krave, as the

Worcester area is home to hundreds of excellent locally owned eateries, but we were drawn to Ted’s Montana Grill after a number of positive references. Co-founded and owned by media mogul Ted Turner, Ted’s Montana Grill is a medium-sized national chain of some 46 restaurants across 16 states, featuring a typical barand-grill menu but focusing on bison meat. Despite succumbing to some of the common shortcomings of many big-time chains, largely the tendency to over salt and over sauce everything on the menu, Ted’s is an above-average grill, with fair prices, good service, and a fantastic burger list. Visiting late on a Friday night we were impressed by the nonchain-like ambiance of Ted’s, as paintings adorned the walls, tables were clothed, and there wasn’t a cheesy, clichéd tchotchke to be found. We were seated after a short wait and after gorging ourselves on a complimentary dish of well-pickled cucumbers, we immediately placed an order for bison nachos. The nachos arrived quickly. We were disappointed by the sparse number of chips and a melted cheese that probably came out of a jar, but the vegetables and bison

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peppers, and cheese — were also delicious. However, of our four meals, the one order that stood apart from the rest was Nicholas’s beef prime rib, an enormous, fatty but incredibly tender cut of steak that dripped with juices and could practically be cut with a fork. Burgers at Ted’s come served with a heaping plate of fries and each order, with bison meat, runs about $15. Service at the restaurant was fast and friendly, although the wait staff is very focused on upselling the more expensive bison option of each order. The menu and descriptions of Ted’s also pay a lip service to a sustainable, ecofriendly mission, but aside from frustrating paper straws and rolled-paper table-covers, this was not entirely visible. Nevertheless, while still within the constraints of what most diners expect when they eat at a chain restaurant, the four of us were impressed by the service, prices, and quality of food at Ted’s Montana Grill. If you feel a burger night sneaking up on you, Ted’s is a can’tmiss spot.

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chili did more than enough to make up for what was lacking. The menu at Ted’s is your typical grill fair, with a sizable list of salad, seafood and steaks and also featuring an impressive list of some 20 burger combinations, with most items on the menu hovering around $14 - $20. In the mood for a serious sandwich, three of us took a chance on some delicious sounding burgers. I opted for The Red Rock, an enormous bisonmeat burger with pepper-jack cheese, jalapeños, cilantro, fried onion straws, and a mysteriously named “z-sauce” (which was a fancy name for what seemed like a raspberry vinaigrette). Bison meat is typically leaner than ground hamburger, and while my order of medium-rare more resembled a medium-well, the meat was still delicious and lacked the greasiness that many hamburgers have. Two other diners remarked that the Cadillac — a bacon BBQ burger — and the Philly — a burger smothered in onions, green

{ dining}

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{ recommended}

The Texas BBQ Company 309 Main St., Northboro 508-393-4742 texasbbqco.com Worth the trip for just the barbecue meats alone. Though the atmosphere is basic, the food quality, preparation and recipes are outstanding. The best meats, wood-smoked for 16 hours, produces the best barbecue ribs (pork, beef and baby back), chicken, pulled pork, brisket and Texas Hill Country sausage to be had in Central Massachusetts. Credit cards accepted. Full liquor bar. Off-street parking. Take-out available. Via Italian Table 89 Shrewsbury St., Worcester 508-754-4842 viaitaliantable.com To the venerable Sole Proprietor and its cross-town companion, The 111 Chop House, the Ahlquists have added Via Italian Table, a Tuscaninspired Mediterranean restaurant. The renovation is substantial and sophisticated, and the rear terrace adds a new dimension to Worcester fair-weather dining: a gorgeous space to eat, drink, see, and be seen. Via runs the gamut of Mediterranean classics, like “Three Meatballs on No. 8 Spaghetti,” lasagna (Bolognese or three cheeses), shrimp scampi and salmon to spit-roasted chicken or pork loin chops to ragouts to gnocchi pie, pork shank osso buco, paella, and six varieties of grilled pizza. Free valet and off-street parking. Full liquor, beer and wine.

Eighty Ates Bar & Grille 8 Airport Road, Dudley r 508-949-8888 eightyates.com Wind your way through Webster and Dudley to Eighty Ates Bar & Grille, where trendy meets rural suburbia. Breeze past the tinted windows, and the décor is spare and slick, punctuated by vividly colored abstract paintings. Whether dressed up or dressed down, diners will find a creative and tasty spin on chicken, steaks, seafood and pasta, with fresh ingredients like feta and goat cheeses, sun-dried tomatoes, Portobello mushrooms and couscous. The same goes for desserts, like the homemade chocolate brownie sundae and raspberry white chocolate cheese brule. Open for lunch and dinner, all the prices end in “88 cents.” There’s even a kids’ menu. The bar sports flat-screens, a wine list with just enough variety and a fun martini menu. Chuck’s Steak House 10 Prospect St. (Rte. 20), Auburn 508-832-2553 chucks.com Diners who look more than skin deep at Chuck’s will be rewarded with sumptuous, hand-carved steaks, a clean, varied soup-and-salad bar, seafood, and home-style sides. The building is dark, dated and funky, but the food and service are good. Moderate to expensive. Credit cards accepted. Off-street parking. Full liquor bar. J.P.’s Restaurant and Pub Westmeadow Plaza, Rte. 9, Westboro 508-366-0627 A classic bar and grille type, J.P.’s serves possibly the best lobster roll around, a gargantuan portion at a meager price. For everyone else, they offer the usual complement of home-style dinners, steaks, chops, ribs, fried and broiled seafood, etc. Cash only. Plaza parking. Oxford’s Casual Dining 2 Millbury Blvd., Oxford 508-987-1567 oxfordscasualdining.com Oxford’s menu is chock full of good-looking options, like roast pork, meatloaf, beef tips, salmon, pasta, Italian specialties, several appetizers, soups and salads — all at below-city prices, with friendly, excellent service. (Plus, early-bird and bottled wine specials.) Try the Wednesday pasta special: choice of pasta and sauce, plus choice of beef tips, grilled chicken and shrimp. “Mark’s Calamari” is one of the best recipes around. Offstreet parking. Credit cards accepted. Full liquor.

Now Accepting Reservations for

New Year’s Eve Gluten Free

A s k ur ut O A b o ter i ng Ca

TWO ENTREES JUST $19.99 Ten Entrees to Choose From Cannot be combined with any other discounts, specials or offers of any kind.

THURSDAY: DESSERT-DAY Free Dessert with your Entree purchase

Cannot be combined with any other discounts, specials or offers of any kind.

GAME DAY 1/2 PRICE APPS During Pats, Bs, Celts and Sox games, Appetizers are 1/2 price with your alcohol purchase Cannot be combined with any other discounts, specials or offers of any kind.

RESTAURANT

PUB

Sun.-Thurs. 11:30am-9pm • Fri. & Sat. ‘til 10pm Closed Mon. 42 West Boylston St., (Rt. 12) West Boylston, MA 508-835-4722 • www.ourmanor.com

Receive a $15 Bonus Certificate when you purchase $100 or more!

508.755.WING

(9464)

wingitupworcester.com

BANQUET FACILITIES

GIFT CERTIFICATE SPECIAL

591 Park Ave Worcester, MA

Loft 266 266 Park Ave, Worcester 508-796-5177 Functions from 20-100 On-Site • Catering

50 WING FLAVORS! Exciting NEW menu coming soon with even more flavors! NEVER FROZEN! MADE TO ORDER! MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

WE DELIVER! LIMITED AREA

Hours: Sun-Wed 11am-1am Thur-Sat 11am-2am

DECEMBER 22, 2011 • WORCESTERMAG.COM

23

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Open Christmas Eve Until 8pm Gift CertiďŹ cates Available

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Webster House

night day &

{ recommended}

Colonial Restaurant & Pub 290 Thompson Road, Webster 508-943-4040 colonialrestaurant.com The menu at the Colonial features seasonal specials, pasta (primavera, parmesan, scampi and Alfredo), traditional entrĂŠes (including lamb and weiner schnitzel), a few surprises (haddock Nantucket), and plenty of seafood. Right off of I-395, it is located near scenic Webster Lake. You’ll ďŹ nd good food and pleasant service in the spacious dining room or in the pub. The Sole Proprietor 118 Highland St., Worcester 508-798-3474 thesole.com The Sole has been a Worcester seafood lover’s dream for nearly 30 years. The menu is fresh, contemporary and comprehensive, including lots of fare for the seafood wary. The atmosphere is elegant and upscale in the dining rooms, lively and loud in the bar. From the most basic ďŹ sh to expedited kettle meals and sushi, The Sole does it right. Reservations encouraged. Credit cards accepted. Offstreet and valet parking available. The Lazy Dog 31 Main St., Marlboro 508-229-2254 doggonelazy.com Lovers of a clean sports pub with some roadhouse vibe and shadowy corners will enjoy Marlboro’s Lazy Dog, where you can enjoy a beer and a good meal while watching your favorite sports team, or listening to the frequent live music. The menu includes a

Reserve Now for New Year’s Eve

little of everything you expect in a pub. Prices are moderate. Offstreet parking. Credit cards accepted. Full liquor license.

Nancy Chang 372 Chandler St., Worcester 508-752-8899 nancychang.com Nancy Chang boasts a number of awards — for best buffet, best Chinese, etc. It’s also renowned for its efforts to make healthy the infamous American Chinese fare, reducing carbs and lowering fat, and addressing the needs of the gluten-allergic and vegetarian. This they have done, all the while producing avorful, fresh meals in the traditions of this cuisine. Full liquor bar. Credit cards accepted. Off-street parking.

CancĂşns 75 Worcester St., North Grafton 508-839-8800 This is one of those unlikely ďŹ nds that is worth going out of your way for, even if you’ve not ventured to Grafton before. Discover the lively mood and friendly staff at CancĂşns, located at the fork of routes 122 and 140. The burritos are stuffed in artfully folded tortillas and topped with (not bathed in) mild enchilada sauce, crisp onions and shredded lettuce, refreshing sour cream, zesty guacamole, and a sprinkling of ranchero cheese. Go with the familiar enchiladas and fajitas, or go a little gourmet with a more sophisticated entrĂŠe. Alternative selections include a steak and shrimp platter (hold the guacamole), chicken Caesar salad, fajita melt, puerco adovado (grilled marinated pork loin) and a few other chicken and seafood entrĂŠes.

End 2011 With Us

One Webster Street at Webster Square Worcester • Open Everyday 11am-10pm

www.websterhouseweb.com • 508.757.7208 Monthly Wine Dinners...

Worcester Hibernian Cultural Centre

Fiddlers’ Green Irish Pub 19 Temple Street • Worcester • 508-792-3700 • www.ďŹ ddlersgreen.com

New Pub Manager, New Chef, and a Whole New Menu... and Great Prices! Come in and check us out! ENTERTAINMENT E N FRIDAY AY the 23rd: Mick Carr

Begin 2012 With Us

SATURDAY the 24th: Christmas Eve / Kitchen & Pub Open til 6pm SATURD SUNDAY SUNDA DA A the 25th: Closed - Merry Christmas To All Of Our Friends!

It’s The Best Resolution-either way BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY PARTIES NOW! Hall available for Private Functions & Weddings 508-795-0400 WORCESTERMAG.COM • DECEMBER 22, 2011

234 Chandler Street . 508.459.4240 . www.evodining.com Find us on Facebook, YouTube & Twitter!

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William’s Restaurant & Tavern 184 Pearson Blvd., Gardner 978-632-7794 williamsrestaurantandtavern.com Conveniently located right off Rte. 2, William’s Restaurant & Tavern is a great place to catch up with friends over dinner — and be sure to check out their entertainment calendar. The regular menu is packed with plenty of signature selections and options. Salads are a slight tcut above, with such ingredients as artichoke hearts, kalamata olives and homemade croutons. The Greek salad even comes with stuffed grape leaves. Next to deli sandwiches, wraps and Angus burgers are paninis, grilled and served on rustic focaccia. Pasta dishes are mostly standard fare (ravioli, veal parmesan), and other entrees include specialties, fried and baked seafood purchased daily, and Hunter’s Catch beef selections.

Allora Ristorante 139 Lakeside Ave., Marlboro 508-485-4300 alloraristorante.com Looking for good Italian near the Metrowest beltway? Allora is a step above its competitors, offering an interesting array of beef, pork,

{ recommended}

seafood and pasta both familiar and novel. Desserts are made fresh in-house, as is the complementary focaccia bread, both of which serve to elevate the experience. Moderate prices. Easy access to Rte. 495. Off-street, free parking. Credit cards accepted. Full bar. Calabria Ristorante 7 South Main St., Millbury 508-581-9700 The Ritacco family have brought Calabria back and resettled in the center of Millbury. Consider exchanging long waits and massproduced chow for a fresher, more personal experience at this rustic Italian eatery. Seafood is here in abundance. If you can’t choose from swordďŹ sh, haddock, sole or salmon, try a medley in zuppa de pesce (shrimp, scallops, calamari, mussels and haddock in red broth), or the seafood sampler (baked shrimp, grilled swordďŹ sh and broiled salmon). Everything comes with pasta, except Mario’s special, a carnivore’s feast of grilled sausage, pork chops and lamb chops. Other interesting selections include stuffed beef braciole and spicy tripe.

f

Open on New Years Eve & New Years Day. We welcome all to come dine with us and celebrate the new year with us!

206 North Spencer Road, Route 31, Spencer

508-885-5018

• Daily Lunch Specials • Weekend Dinner Specials • Full Entrees All Day • Seniors’ Menu Now Available • Full Pizza Menu • Fresh Prime Rib Fri. & Sat. 4 pm

www.blackandwhitegrille.com ad Call Aheut take-o ! Available

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Celebrate The Holiday with Us! FRIDAY DECEMBER 23RD OPEN @ NOON CHRISTMAS EVE OPEN 3:30-1:00AM CHRISTMAS DAY OPEN 5PM-12:00AM NEW YEARS EVE OPEN NOON-1:00AM NEW YEARS EVE BUFFET 4:00-9:00PM NEW YEARS DAY OPEN NOON-12:00AM Banquet Rooms Available Catering Available

ificates Gift Cert le! Availab 176 Reservoir St.

508-829-2188

We will have Sautee specialties & the most flavorful prime rib around available all weekend.

We would like to wish everyone a healthy & prosperous 2012!

Open 7 days a week Mon - Sat open at 11 | Sun open at noon

Come Discover...

25

Great Food & Great Music Dine Beside Our Two Crackling Fireplaces

On The Common Restaurant

Steaks, Seafood, Pasta and Grilled Pizza

As seen on...

Closed Christmas Eve & Christmas Day

New England’s Nightly News Magazine Program

SPEND NEW YEARS WITH US!

CHRONICLE 25 Grafton Common, Grafton www.thegraftoninn.com

Dana Lewis on Guitar Every Thursday • No Cover

508-839-5931 Tu-Th 11:30-9 Fri & Sat 11:30-10 Sundays noon-8 Closed on Mondays •

•

DECEMBER 22, 2011 • WORCESTERMAG.COM

25

weeklypicks

night day &

{ opt }

Take a peek at the week ahead! Want to see your listing here? Visit our website at worcestermag.com, click on night&day, then select Calendar and submit your event. Really want to catch our attention? Add to our online database and pester our editor at editor@worcestermag.com.

>Thursday 22

Through Friday, Jan. 6, experience a vintage holiday with the Emmanuel d’Alzon Library exhibit Christmas Cards by ThÊodore Jobin. Produced by the Assumption College French Institute, this selection of illustrated Christmas cards by Franco-American artist ThÊodore Jobin (1873-1955) showcases a whimsical selection of holiday greeting cards from the Jobin Family Archive. Free and open to the public. Assumption College: Emmanuel d’Alzon Library, 500 Salisbury St. 508-767-7272.

at the free KJ Baaron’s Fine Wine & Spirits tasting, 5-7 p.m., 220 Summer St. 508-753-3400. Ralph’s seasonal offering is its Xmas Rock Show featuring Auditory Implant, Imaginary Animals, Lentner and Stealing Gadsby! 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Ralph’s Chadwick Square Diner, 148 Grove St. 508-753-9543. Today and tomorrow are your last days to catch Santa as he visits

PHOTO/TOM DUBY

Beg, Scream & Shout! Holiday Soul Party 2011 at The Lucky Dog Music Hall. There is no better way to celebrate the holidays than with oor-shaking, roof-raising music by the giant soul band Beg, Scream & Shout! Playing deep cuts from the 1960s heyday of the Stax/Motown era as well as original songs you’d swear were classics, this band will get you dancing and won’t stop until you can’t dance any more. Plus Santa Claus will be in the house, holding court and taking photos all night long. And what is Santa Claus without presents? Bring a awesome wrapped gift ($15 limit, no gag gifts please) that you would love to receive and you’ll be able to get a gift from Santa in return. Show your fellow soul music lover how you feel about them with something cool. To keep you in the spirits, count on plenty of unique drink specials just for this night. Doors open at 8 p.m., music starts at 9 p.m. $12. Lucky Dog Music Hall, 89 Green St. 508-363-1888, begscreamshout.com. Ralph’s Chadwick Square Diner continues its holiday theme with 2011 Ludachristmas Party featuring 99 Moon, The Silence, Miars and Ashland’s Attic (“Tonight’s Entertainmentâ€? CD Release). Rumor is this is the last show for Ashland’s Attic for a while, as the members have decided to pursue separate musical endeavors. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Ralph’s, 148 Grove St. 508-753-9543.

Looking for last-minute gift ideas for the unique individual on your list? The Worcester Art Museum Shop is open seven days a week, Dec. 1-24, and is a great place to ďŹ nd something creative, beautiful and distinctive. Members save 20%. Worcester Art Museum, 55 Salisbury St. 508-799-4406. During the Wines of the Loire Valley tasting, discover how Loire wines from France tend to exhibit characteristic fruitiness with fresh, crisp avors—especially in their youth. The Loire Valley has a long history of winemaking dating back to the ďŹ rst century. In the High Middle Ages, the wines of the Loire Valley were the most esteemed wines in England and France, even more prized than those from Bordeaux. Come try these wonderful wines for yourself

the Candy Mansion. Free to the public; 3-8 p.m. Hebert Candy Mansion, 575 Hartford Turnpike, Shrewsbury. 508-845-8051.

>Friday 23

Gather with songs sheets in one hand and hot chocolate in the other for a night of song and camaraderie during Caroling on the Common. The Worcester Brass Consort accompanies participants as they sing carols. Song sheets and hot chocolate provided. Bring a ashlight. Donation or bag of personal-care items for St. Anne’s Food Pantry are encouraged. The event will be held in snow/rain/sleet or moonlight. Sponsored by Scizzors Hair Salon and Arts on the Green series of the First Congregational Church, Shrewsbury; Free; 7-7:30 p.m. Town Common, Main St and Boylston St., Shrewsbury. 207-475-4892.

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• DECEMBER 22, 2011

Relax this Christmas Eve with Andy Cummings’ Special X-Mas Eve Show from 9:30 p.m.-2 a.m. Nick’s Bar and Restaurant, 124 Millbury St. 508-753-4030.

>Monday 26

Kids Cook: Pasta Making from Scratch - Wednesday, Dec. 28. Ever make pasta from scratch? Making your own dough, rolling in out, cutting it, and cooking it? Before boxes of pasta, you had to make it yourself. And there’s nothing like homemade pasta. Learn to make spaghetti and ravioli by hand. We will make some other recipes to round out our menu—like garlic bread! Get ready to knead, roll, ďŹ ll and cut—and bring your appetite, too! $45 per person; 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Culinary Underground School for Home Cooks, 21 Turnpike Rd., Southborough. 508-904-6589.

>Tuesday 27

The city must be in recovery today, because ain’t nothing going on.

>Wednesday 28

Tower Hill Botanic Garden presents a wonderful, all-ages holiday concert performed by The Rafters. The Rafters are Dave Fitzgibbons and Miki Bryan, a husband and wife acousticpop-folk duo, whose music focuses on melody and lyrics evoking feelings of hope and a sense of nostalgia of simpler times. Concert starts at 4 p.m. and again at 6 p.m. Tower Hill Botanic Garden, 11 French Drive, Boylston. 508-869-6111. Rejuvenate after the stress of the holidays by attending the Worcester Sharks vs. Manchester Monarchs game, where there will be an autographed Sharks-player card giveaway. Don’t forget about the Family Fun Pack: $74 for four, includes tickets, hot dogs and sodas. $10-$26. 7-11 p.m. DCU CenterArena and Convention Center, 50 Foster St. 508-929-0500, sharksahl.com.

>Thursday 29

Mark Robie is at Nu CafĂŠ from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Their smoothies are to die for, sip one while tapping your toes. 335 Chandler St. 508-926-8800.

Steez Promo presents Dub Nation Mass featuring Steve Aoki at The Palladium tonight. Special guest Lucky Date. Tickets $22.50 in advance; 8-11 p.m. 261 Main St. 508-797-9696.

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>Saturday 24

Need to get out of the house this holiday? You’re lucky that Nick’s Bar and Restaurant is open at 7 p.m. tonight! Nick’s Bar and Restaurant, 124 Millbury St. 508-753-4030.

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Looking for something different to shake off the holiday shopping blues? Try organ trio Sandstorm. This ’60s hipster organ trio will keep everyone groovin’ and dancing with great tunes. 10 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Sahara Cafe & Restaurant, 143 Highland St. 508-798-2181.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

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beech tree

books! records!

Nick’s Bar and Restaurant brings you Cara Brindisi and Bobby Gadoury from 9 p.m.-2 a.m. 124 Millbury St. 508-753-4030.

>Sunday 25

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Upload your listings at our redesigned website worcestermag.com. Click the Night & Day toolbar, then choose Calendar to place your event listing in both our print and online weekly calendar.

music >Thursday 22

Good Times with Your Friend DJ Steve. Featured in the main bar area every Thursday, DJ Steve, friend to all, spins rock and roll nuggets from the 1950s to an hour ago. He will also rip phone books in half upon advanced request. But please, don’t touch his moustache. 9-2 a.m. Hotel Vernon - The Ship Room/ Kelley Square Yacht Club, 1 Millbury St. Open Mic Night. 7-11 p.m. Blueplate Lounge, 661 Main St., Holden. 508-829-4566. Irish Music Session. Each week, a traditional Irish music session is held at Mulligan’s Taverne. The public are welcome to join in music, song, and camaraderie. No cover charge, all ages and talent levels welcome. Listeners welcome, too! No Charge.. 7:30-10 p.m. Mulligans Taverne-on-the-Green, 121 West Main St., Westborough. 508-344-4932 or westboroughsession.com. Chad Clements at Smokestack Urban Barbecue Worcester. 8-11 p.m. Smokestack Urban Barbecue, 90 Harding St. Monica & Chrissy. Monica Hamilton & Chrissy Croteau, beautiful vocal harmonies, strong guitar playing, original songs. Pass The Hat. 8-10 p.m. Jak’s Pub, 536 Main St. 508-757-5257. FLOCK OF A-HOLES, the ultimate 80’s tribute band with guests DANNY DARK & THE AFTERNOON DELIGHT(Some of the Flock Members 70’s band) and WHAT? Special HOLIDAY show!. Just like last year, expect some great 80’s X-Mas songs from the Flock Of A-Holes. HAPPY HOLIDAYS everyone :) $5. 8:30 p.m.-2 a.m. Lucky Dog Music Hall, 89 Green St. 508-363-1888 or flockofassholes.com. “Crooners,” A spotlight of Worcester’s finest male vocalists 9pm! Happy Birthday Audra. $4 Cover. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Nick’s Bar and Restaurant, 124 Millbury St. 508-753-4030. Audio Wasabe. Audio Wasabe is professional musicians coming together with a differant musical them each week Free. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Gardner Ale House, 74 Parker St., Gardner. 978-6690122. DJ Brian Spinnin’ & Scratchin’ The Hottest Dance Music. No Cover Charge!. 9 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Days End Tavern, 287 Main St., Oxford. 508-987-1006. Xmas Rock Show w/ Auditory Implant, Imaginary Animals, Lentner, and Stealing Gadsby!. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Ralph’s Chadwick Square Diner, 148 Grove St. 508-753-9543. Jay Graham Live!. 9:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Funky Murphy’s Bar & Grill, 305 Shrewsbury St. 508-753-2995. Andy Cummings Live. $3. 10 p.m.-2 a.m. Hooligan’s, 29 Blossom St., Fitchburg. 508-272-5092. Holy Cross Night. Holy Cross takes over the Hound ! Draft beer specials every week. 10 p.m.-1:45 a.m. The Grey Hound Pub, 11 Kelley Square. 508-754-6100.

>Friday 23

Weekend is here! “VINYL-ly FRIDAY PARTY”. We have the turntables, YOU LOVE Vinyl! After a long week of work you need to let it go! from 5:30-8:30 YOU bring your vinyl and all of your friends to a FREE party hosted by us AND YOU! We’ll supply free pizza and even give a stamp for you and your party to stay the rest of the night on us! SIGN UP today! space is limited! FREE. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Lucky Dog Music Hall, 89 Green St. 508-363-1888 or luckydogmusic.com. Live music at the 1790 Tavern. live music most friday nights in the tavern, blues, jazz, contemporary, call for more information. free. 6:30-10 p.m. 1790 Restaurant & Tavern, Tavern room, 206 Turnpike Road, Westborough. 508-366-1707. BBQ & Blues Fridays with Big Jon Short. Come out to enjoy some of the area’s best BBQ and some Delta and Hill Country Blues. bbqstack.com bigjonshort.com no cover. 7-10 p.m. Smokestack Urban Barbecue, 90 Harding St. Caroling on the Common. Gather with songs sheets in one hand and hot chocolate in the other for a night of carols/ camaraderie. The Worcester Brass Consort accompanies participants as we sing carols. Song sheets/hot chocolate provided.

Bring a flashlight. We encourage you to bring a donation or bag of personal care items for St. Anne’s Food Pantry. The event will be held in snow/rain/sleet or moonlight. Sponsored by Scizzors Hair Salon and “Arts on the Green” series of the First Congregational Church, Shrewsbury. Free. 7-7:30 p.m. Shrewsbury, MA Town Common, Main St and Boylston St., Shrewsbury. 207-475-4892. Christmas show with Dan & Dorette. dankirouac. freeservers.com kingphillip.com free. 7-11 p.m. Twohey’s Tavern at King Phillip Restaurant, 35 State Road, Athol. Arizona Doug & Scott Marshall - Rock Music. Free admission. 7:30-10:30 p.m. Verona Grille, 81 Clinton St., Shrewsbury. 508-853-9091. Bill McCarthy @ THE MILL at 185. MySpace.com/ BadClownProductions 8-11 p.m. The Mill at 185 West Boylston Street, 185 West Boylston St., West Boylston. The BEG, SCREAM & SHOUT “Holiday Soul Party”. There is no better way to celebrate the holidays than with a floor shaking, roof raising, night of music with the giant soul band “Beg, Scream & Shout!” Playing deep cuts from the 1960s heyday of the Stax/Motown era as well as original songs you’d swear were classics, this band will get you dancing and wont stop until you can’t dance any more. And there’s more! Santa Claus, yes THE Santa Claus will be in the house, holding court and taking photos all night long. You’ll have that special holiday photo just in time to impress the folks with how wholesome you are. What is Santa Claus without presents? He’s an overweight dude in a red suit, hanging out in a nightclub asking you to sit on his lap. That problem is SOLVED with a gift swap! Simply bring a awesome wrapped gift ($15 limit, no gag gifts please) that you would love to receive and you’ll be able to get a gift from Santa in return. Show your fellow soul music lover how you feel about them with something cool. To keep you in the spirits The Lucky Dog Music Hall will have plenty of unique drink specials just for this night. $12. 8 p.m.-2 a.m. Lucky Dog Music Hall, 89 Green St. 508-3631888 or find them on facebook. Tom Yates Group - classic hits of the Woodstock Generation. Tom Yates - guitar & vocals, Rick Maida - bass, Mike Avery - drums. Pop-rock, psych-rock, surf-rock, folk-rock, country-rock, blues-rock no cover charge. 8-11 p.m. Concord’s Colonial Inn, Village Forge Tavern, 48 Monument Square, Concord. 978-369-2373 or myspace.com/thomasyates. Wibble - Live & Acoustified. Playing your favorite classic rock hits! some bluegrass, little bit of country & a lot of rock n’ roll! Free :). 8-11 p.m. Dreamers Bar & Grille, 815 Worcester Road, Barre. 978-355-9095 or youtube.com/wibblemusic. Live Music in the Pub - Mick Carr. Mick Carr’s at it again....In 1991, Mick left home for Boston where he played with the Donegal Cords until 2006. During that time they played on live radio WRKO and appeared on Boston TV’s “Ireland on the Move” and played back up for bands such as Bagatelle and the Dublin City Ramblers. In that time he has developed a dedicated following. Known as a hard working guy who has a great time each and every time he performs and he influences his audience positively. 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Fiddlers’ Green Pub & Restaurant, 19 Temple St. 508-792-3700 or irishemigrant.com/ie/entertainers. asp?ent=306158. 2011 Ludachristmas Party! with: 99 Moon, The Silence, Miars, Ashlands Attic (CD Release). 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Ralph’s Chadwick Square Diner, 148 Grove St. 508-753-9543. Cara Brindisi and Bobby Gadoury!. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Nick’s Bar and Restaurant, 124 Millbury St. 508-753-4030. DJ Pete the Polock. Yeh, he’s still here playing whatever he wants. The girls flash him for requests, sit on his lap, and listen to his same old jokes but still love him. He only plays to get out of the house away from his queen. Classic rock to the Blues. Large dance floor to shake it. Come see this Worcester legend. Free. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. 3-G’s Sports Bar, The Music Room, 152 Millbury St. 508-754-3516. DJ Susan Esthera. $5 cover after 9:00 pm. 9 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Mixers Cocktail Lounge, 105 Water St. 508-762-9499. FRIDAY FRENZY with Blurry Nights & DJ SOUP - DJ B-LO. FRIDAY NIGHT FRENZY at FUSION features the BEST sound and lights in Central Mass with DJ SOUP & DJ B-LO

spinning your favorite Dance, Hip Hop and top 40 tracks. Lounge opens at 9:00 pm - Dance Club opens at 10:30 pm. Coat Room available with attendant. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Fusion, 109 Water St. 508-756-2100. Jon Lacouture. Free. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Art’s Diner, West Boylston st. 352-895-8355. Karaoke with Making Memories. Free. 9 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Days End Tavern, 287 Main St., Oxford. 508-987-1006. Ladies Night - Top 40 Dance Party. Our Top 40 Ladies Night Dance Party returns to Speakers! Ladies (and Gent’s) come in and dance the night away with the hottest DJ in the MetroWest Area DJ Norm!!! FREE. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Speakers Night Club, 19 Weed St., Marlborough. 508-480-8222 or speakersnightclub.net. Live Bands Every Friday and NO COVER CHARGES!. Every week its another great band and a good excuse to get out of the house FREE!!!!. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Squire Whites Pub & Restaurant, 347 Greenwood St. 508-752-7544 or squirewhites.com. Pete the Polak, DJ. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. 3-G’s Sports Bar, 152 Millbury St. 508-754-3516. Route 66 RocknRoll Band. No Cover. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Forty’s Pub, 1030 Central St (Route12), Leominster. 978-534-7026. SILVERBACKS. BAND $5. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Greendale’s Pub, 404 W Boylston St. 508-853-1350. Sandstorm ~ organ trio. 60’s hipster organ trio keeps everyone groovin’ & dancing with great tunes!!! 10 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Sahara Cafe & Restaurant, 143 Highland St. 508-798-2181.

>Saturday 24

Merry X-mas Eve!!! Come by and drink! We’ll be open!. 7 p.m.-2 a.m. Ralph’s Chadwick Square Diner, 148 Grove St. 508-753-9543. DJ TONY T. 9 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Mixers Cocktail Lounge, 105 Water St. 508-762-9499. Girl Spot Saturdays. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Club X, 681 Valley St., Providence. myspace.com/girlspotri. Live bands Every Sat. Night - See below. Live bands perform every Saturday night. The area’s hottest spot for the best bands. Blues to Rock. $3 after 9:30pm (subject to change). 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Speakers Night Club, 19 Weed St., Marlborough. 508-480-8222. SPINSUITE SATURDAYS - Top 40. SPINSUITE SATURDAYS - DJ SOUP - DJ NICK - DJ B-LO spin your favorite Dance, Mash Ups & Top 40 Tracks. Fusion’s Lounge opens at

night day &

{ listings}

9:00 pm and Dance Club opens at 10:30pm. Coat room with attendant available. No Cover Charge. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Fusion, 109 Water St. 508-756-2100. Hip Hop Dance Party with DJ HappyDaze Sat. Nights!. Dance the night away upstairs in the Den with DJ HappyDaze! Playing a great mix of Top 40, Old school and hip hop! 9:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Days End Tavern, 287 Main St., Oxford. 508-987-1006.

>Sunday 25

The Flock of A**holes. 80’s HOLIDAY party! On CHRISTMAS NIGHT!. It’s Christmas night, you’veopened your gifts, spent some time with loved ones...now COME OUT AND PARTY! ALL NIGHT SHOW with the FLOCK! $5. 9:30 p.m.-2 a.m. Lucky Dog Music Hall, 89 Green St. 508-363-1888 or facebook. com/pages/Flock-of-Aholes/127019150125.

>Monday 26

Driftin’ Sam Politz 7pm, then Karaoke w/Audra 9pm till Close! Happy Birthday Megazone!. 7 p.m.-2 a.m. Nick’s Bar and Restaurant, 124 Millbury St. 508-753-4030.

>Tuesday 27

Fenway Jazz Jam. The host trio is led by guitarist and Boston resident David Ehle with a bassist and drummer plus special guest musicians. This is an open jazz jam session where all are invited to bring your instrument and your voice or just come enjoy the fun. No Cover. 7-11 p.m. Tiki hideaway Lounge, Howard Johnson Hotel, 1271 Boylston St (behind Fenway Park), Boston. 617-572-3692. Open Mic Night w /Bill McCarthy Open Mike!. 7-11 p.m. Greendale’s Pub, 404 W Boylston St. 508-853-1350. The Earth and Spirit Singers (weekly rehearsal). Join the chorus! Be a part of the Earth and Spirit Singers. Lend your voice to our community chorus, celebrating peace, earth and nature. We’ll sing for the beautiful, amazing and fragile environment on our small planet. We’ll also sing songs of working people, of peace, and of spirituality. Led by composer/guitarist Jim Scott, The Earth and Spirit Singers is a no-audition choral group. The chorus welcomes singers of any age and experience. Learning from music and by ear, the chorus sings many styles of music celebrating ecology, peace and world community. Four Songfest evenings start September 14th. The regular rehearsals start on October 12th. For

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9 Walker Drive • Upton, MA 01568 • Off Rte. 140 508-529-3600 • desirees-desires.com Tues 11am - 5pm, Wed-Sat 11am-8pm • Closed Sun & Mon DECEMBER 22, 2011 • WORCESTERMAG.COM

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information and to register interest, visit: JimScottMusic.com, call: 508-755-0995, or email: Jim@JimScottMusic.com $7 per rehearsal. 7-9 p.m. First Unitarian Church of Worcester, 90 Main St. 508-755-0995 or JimScottMusic.com. “Totally Tuesdazed!!!!!” Tunes in the Diner every Tuesday Night!. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Ralph’s Chadwick Square Diner, 148 Grove St. 508-753-9543. Big Jon Short. Armed with a suitcase kick-drum, National Reso-phonic Guitar and Lowebow cigar-box hillharp, Big Jon Short’s high energy solo performances bring a foot-stomping show that taps into the heart of the songs, regional styles, and folklore of the Blues. bigjonshort.com no cover. 8-11 p.m. Armsby Abbey, 144 North Main St. 508-795-1012 or armsbyabbey.com. T.J. Peavey. A veteran, accomplished and eclectic singer, songwriter and guitarist. Pass The Hat. 8-10 p.m. Jak’s Pub, 536 Main St. 508-757-5257. Terry Brennan / LIVE. 8 p.m.-midnight Banner Pub, The, 112 Green St. 508-755-0879 or terrybmusic.com. Bobby Gadoury American Songbook Sing-a-long! Come take the stage and sing a song, LIVE!!!. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Nick’s Bar and Restaurant, 124 Millbury St. 508-753-4030.

>Wednesday 28

Open Mic. The Raven, 258 Pleasant St. 508-304-8133. Break Thru Music presents ALL IN MERCH SERIES ROUND 3 @ The Palladium (upstairs). Tickets $10 adv., $12 door. 6-11 p.m. Palladium, The, 261 Main St. 508-797-9696. Girls Night Out!!! --FREE Billiards & Gamecards & Appetizers & Desserts--. Girls Night Out Every Wednesday All Females (ages 2-92) Receive: Free Billiards All Night $5 GameCard Complimentary Appetizer Buffet Chocolate Covered Fruit ALL AGES UNTIL 9PM! After 9PM, 18+. Free. 6 p.m.-1 a.m. Jillian’s - Worcester, 315 Grove St. 508-793-0900. Matt Robert Solo Acoustic. Matt Robert (Hat on, Drinking wine, Home Skillet) performs old-timey, old, and new covers and originals that draw on blues, jazz, folk, and rock, from Jelly Roll Morton, Louis Armstrong, and Gus Cannon’s Jug Stompers to The Decemberists, Cake, and Beck. Nu Cafe is a warm, laid-back atmosphere. December shows to benefit the Salvation Army.

Donations Suggested. 6-8 p.m. Nu Cafe, 335 Chandler St. 508963-0588. “A NIGHT OF BARNBURNING BLUES” Acoustic Blues Open Mic, Every Wednesday, hosted by Sean Fullerton. If you or someone you know sings and plays the Blues, please contact Sean Fullerton at seanfullertonmusic@ gmail.com for information and set times. SEE YA ‘ROUND THE CLUBS!! Dinner, Drinks, Music & Fun!!. 7-10 p.m. South Side Grille & Margarita Factory, 242 West Broadway, Gardner. 508-479-2309 or seanfullertonmusic.net. Open Mic. Acoustic open mic beginning Nov. 2. Sign up at 7:00 pm, Performers start at 7:30. Feature act starts at 8:45, Drop-in performers start again at 9:30. Nice stage and lighting. Good sound system and room acoustics. Select videos will be posted online at http://blbrumby.com. Professional videographer will be on site as well offering nice audio/video packages. 0. 7-11 p.m. Rte 56 Roadside Bar & Grill, 24 Leicester St (Route56), North Oxford. 508-987-8669. Open Mike Wednesday - Hosted by Phil and Trisha Knudsen. Come enjoy the best in local live music. You can come to watch or come to perform and watch. But whatever your choice is come down for dinner and drinks and stay for the music!! Performers sign up after 7pm, bring your appetite and stay the evening. Join the facebook group “Friends of Harvest Cafe Open Mike” for more information. http:// facebook.com/home.php#!/ home.php?sk=group_185459018158595 No cover, pass the hat for the hosts. 7-10 p.m. Harvest Café, 40 Washington St., Hudson. 978-567-0948. Open Mic night Looking for Worcester’s amazing acoustic acts to come check out the new Leits Back Bar Open Mic night! Signups begin at 8 and acts begin at 830. We’ll keep the music going as long as there’s acts to play, so come down and check us out! You wont be dissappointed! 8 p.m.-2 a.m. Leitrim’s Pub, Back Bar, 265 Park Ave. 508-798-2447 or LeitrimsWorcester.com. Vincent’s Presents: Tiki Night with Frank & Eric!. Frank and Eric will help you get over the hump every Wednesday with all of your favorite tropical drinks while soaking in special musical guests and movies. 8 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Vincent’s Bar, 49 Suffolk St. 508-752-9439. Wednesday Open Mic Night @ The Hotel Belfont with Bill McCarthy local musicians showcase!. MySpace.com/OpenMicWorld 8 p.m.-midnight The Hotel Belfont,

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Send your Worcester related smartphone picture and description to editor@worcestermag.com with the subject Weekly Pics to be included in this segment. Like now.

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Brownies waiting to sing for the residents of The Colony 3 Retirement Community.

WORCESTERMAG.COM • DECEMBER 22, 2011

11 South Main St., Millbury. 508-917-8128. A night of music with Scott Ricciuti and Friends!. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Nick’s Bar and Restaurant, 124 Millbury St. 508-7534030. WOO-TOWN Wednesday Free show LIVE BANDS. Live entertainment every Wednesday night. Check luckydogmusic. com for complete lineup. FREE. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Lucky Dog Music Hall, 89 Green St. 508-363-1888 or luckydogmusic.com.

art

ARTSWorcester, My Portrait/Myself, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, through Jan. 20. Hours: closed Sunday - Monday, 1-4 p.m. Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday - Friday, 1-4 p.m. Saturday. Admission: Fre. 660 Main St. 508-7555142 or artsworcester.org Assumption College: Emmanuel d’Alzon Library, Christmas Cards by Théodore Jobin, Through Jan. 6, 2012. 500 Salisbury St. 508-767-7272 or assumption.edu/dept/Library Booklovers’ Gourmet, Nature & Wildlife Photography by Don Gorczynski, Through Dec. 31. Hours: closed Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday - Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. 55 East Main St., Webster. 508-949-6232 or er3.com/book Clark University: Cohen-Lasry House, Power, Prosperity and Hope in Eastern Congo - ongoing exhibit, Through Jan. 22, 2012. 11 Hawthorne St. clarku.edu/departments/holocaust. College of the Holy Cross: Iris & B. Gerald Cantor Art Gallery, Hours: closed Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday - Friday, 2-5 p.m. Saturday. 1 College St. 508-793-3356 or holycross.edu EcoTarium, Arctic Adventure, Through Dec. 31; December Vacation Week--Mount Washington Mystery, Tuesday - Friday; Preschool and Toddler Wednesdays, Wednesdays, through Dec. 31. Hours: noon-5 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday. Admission: $12.00 adults; $8.00 for children ages 2-18, college students with IDs & senior citizens. Children under 2 & EcoTarium members free. Additional charges apply for Tree Canopy Walkway, Explorer Express Train, planetarium programs & other special programs. 222 Harrington Way. 508929-2700 or ecotarium.org. Higgins Armory Museum, WOO Card good at Higgins Armory Museum, Through Dec. 31; Vacation Week Fun, Monday Saturday. Hours: noon-4 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday. Admission: General Admission: $10 for Adults, $7 for Children (age 4-16), Children 3 and under are Free. 100 Barber Ave. 508-853-6015 or higgins.org Museum of Russian Icons, Celebrating the Season: Icons of the Nativity, Through Jan. 28, 2012; Sacred Russian Castings, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, through Jan. 7. Hours: closed Sunday - Monday, 11-3 a.m. Tuesday - Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, 11-3 a.m. Friday, 9-3 a.m. Saturday. Admission: $5 adults, senior voluntary contribution, student and children fre. 203 Union St., Clinton. 978-598-5000 or 978-598-5005 or museumofrussianicons.org Post Road Art Center, Minature Show 2011, Through Dec. 28. Hours: closed Sunday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday Saturday. 1 Boston Post Road, Marlborough. 508-485-2580 or postroadartcenter.com. Salisbury Mansion, Home for the Holidays, Sundays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, through Dec. 31. Hours: closed Sunday - Wednesday, 1-8:30 p.m. Thursday, 1-4 p.m. Friday Saturday. 40 Highland St. 508-753-8278 or worcesterhistory.org. Tower Hill Botanic Garden, Holly Days: Fashioned from Nature, Through Jan. 2, 2012; Create a Winter Craft: For All Ages, Wednesday; Holly Days: Food & Fire, Wednesdays, through Dec. 28; Music: The Rafters: All ages holiday concert, Wednesday. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday. Admission: $10 Adults, $7 Seniors & $5 Youth, FREE to Members & Children under . 11 French Drive, Boylston. 508-869-6111 or towerhillbg.org Worcester Art Museum, Art Since the Mid-20th Century,

Through Dec. 31, 2012; Holidays at WAM 2011, Through Dec. 31; The Museum Shop open 7 days a week Dec. 1-24, Through Dec. 24; Wall at WAM: Charline von Heyl, Through Jan. 31, 2012. Hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday - Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. Admission: Free for members, $14 adults, $12 seniors, free for youth 17 and under. Free for all first Saturdays of each month, 10am-noon. 55 Salisbury St. 508799-4406 or worcesterart.org. Worcester Center for Crafts, 2nd Annual Cup Show & Sale, Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, through Jan. 5. Hours: closed Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday - Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, closed Saturday. 25 Sagamore Road. 508-753-8183 or worcestercraftcenter.org. Worcester Historical Museum, On The Rails, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, through Feb. 14; The Cakemaker’s Portrait, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, through March 31. Hours: closed Sunday - Monday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday - Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday - Saturday. 30 Elm St. 508-7538278 or worcesterhistory.org. WPI: George C. Gordon Library, Images of China : Photographs by the WPI Chinese Student Association, Through Dec. 23. 100 Institute Road. wpi.edu.

poetry >Monday 26

Dirty Gerund Poetry & Variety Show. Spoken Word, Poetry, Music, Visual Arts and Ruckus collide to create an innovative, fast paced variety show that ain’t your grandma’s poetry reading. Open Mic, Featured Performers, Live Painting, House Band, Snack Time and Bonus Ruckus Challenges make Monday’s Fun and Inspiring! Hosted by Nicholas Earl Davis and Alex Charalambides. 21 plus. 12/26/11 – TAWNY POWELL – Worcester Native, current Atlanta poet returning home for the holidays with a new chapbook! $2-5 Suggested Donation. 9-11:30 p.m. Ralph’s Chadwick Square Diner, 148 Grove St. 508-753-9543 or dirtygerund.com.

theater/ comedy

Open Mike Comedy - Saturdays, Saturday, July 24 - Sunday, November 11. Hosted by a variety of local comedians under the leadership of Andy Paquette. Worcester’s longest running open mic attracts regional talent and newcomers. 100’s of aspiring comedians have bared their wares in front of this supportive and simpathetic crowd. Well known as the breeding grounds for local talent it has produced many known and not to be known comedians. Fear not! Your Sense of Pride. 7-9 p.m. 3-G’s Sports Bar, The Music Room, 152 Millbury St. Call 508-754-3516. Frank’s Comedy Safari - Saturdays, Saturday, April 23 Monday, April 23. Show Every Sat Night ...Call 1-800-71-Laugh For Reservations Or Buy Tickets At The Door $20 A Ticket. 8-9:30 P.M. Viva Bene Italian Ristorante, 144 Commercial St. Call 508-7999999 Or Visit Frankscomedysafari@Yahoo.Com. A Christmas Carol - Friday, December 23. “God Bless us, everyone!” Continue our family holiday tradition and start getting in the holiday spirit with Troy Siebels’ adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic tale. You know the story, you love the message of Christmas redemption, and the love for mankind that the season brings. Join us for our 4th annual spectacular production of Charles Dickens’ A CHRISTMAS CAROL. **On Sale now to subscribers as a special benefit. Tickets on sale for MEMBERS on June 6, 2011 and for the GENERAL PUBLIC on June 13, 2011** Full price tickets are $25, $30, $38, and $48, depending on seating location. 10% discount available for members, groups of 15 or more, and corporate partners. Half-price tickets available for kids, students, and WOO card holders.. 2-4 p.m., 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts, 2 Southbridge St. Call 877-571-7469 or visit thehanovertheatre.org .

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C & S Carpet Mills Carpet & Linoleum 30 Sq. Yds. $549 Installed with Pad. Free Metal Incl’d. Berber, Plush or Commercial. Call Tom: 800-861-5445 or 508-886-2624

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Commonwealth Fence & Stone Your Complete Fence & Stone Company. All fence types- Cedar, Vinyl, Chain Link, Post & Rail, Ornamental, Pool. Hardscapes- Stone Wall, Walkways, Patios. For a free estimate contact: 508-835-1644

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SUBOXONE STUDY HEROIN, OPIATES & OXYCONTIN USERS If you have a problem with opiates like heroin, Oxycontin or Percocets, you may be eligible to participate in a 3-month Suboxone research study to test medications for opioid abuse. This study is being conducted by the University of Massachusetts Medical School. We are currently seeking volunteers ages 18 to 25. If you are interested, please call Chelsea or leave a message at (508) 856-4566. All calls are confidential. Docket #13261.

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Physicians (3 positions): Physician (Webster, MA). General Phys. needed to serve as the initial contact for patients in need of health care; Assess and treat various conditions, ailments, and injuries for regular and long-term patients; refer to specialist as nec. Job code: R01 Geriatrician (Worcester, MA) needed to provide internal medicine & family services to elderly population at area nursing homes, long term care. Res. Int. Med & Fellowship & Fellowship in Geriatrics req. Job Code: R02 Hospitalist (Worcester, MA) needed to provide primary care and coordinate specialist care during patients hospital stay. Wk in admissions and oversight of house staff; Hrs: 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM, alt, 7 days/wk w/7 days off. Job Code: R03 All positions require MD, or foreign equiv & 3yr Res. Int. Med., current MA Med Lic. To apply Reference Job code & send res & cvr ltr to James Goodman, Dir. Of Phys. Recr., Reliant Medical Group, Inc., 12th FL, 100 Front St, Worcester, MA 01608, or email James.Goodman@ reliantmedicalgroup.org

ITEMS UNDER $2011

ACER one, 10.1 Netbook window XP 1GB & 2GB DDR2 new w/ box, manuals & case $199 978-728-4050 Bach Trombone with Case & Mouthpiece. Excellent Condition $125. Call 508-829-9210 Dining Room Table One and a half years old, 64"x42" with 17" leaf, 4 chairs & a 2 person bench 508-829-5181 Dining room table set beveled, tinted glass top. 4 chairs wicker bk metal frame $100/B.O. 508-886-0135 Entertainment Center $1700 neg. Gd Cond, can send pics, will help move 11’6"W x 9’H 508-983-4677 Exquisite- 1940’s Hand Made Naitivity 14 piece, lg figurines, 14KG, similar to Lenox, $150 508-981-8262

ITEMS UNDER $2011

ITEMS UNDER $2011

WANTED TO BUY

Good Christmas Gift Yankee 100th Yearbook Hard Copy $50 978-537-8603

Snowboard Carry Case 5 ft in length, paid $40, never used it Asking $20 978-4666160

Vermont Castings fireplace insert stove 32"Wx28"Hx 25"D cast iron w/ blower atchmnt $100 508-869-6960

Kirby Care System Never used, still in box, paid $2000, Best Offer 978-3427283

Swedish Steel fireplace screens and endirons, tool set $500 or B.O 508-8655565

Musical Instruments Cash paid for musical instruments & audio gear in any condition. Gordon LaSalle Music 978-537-1200 Leominster 508-765-9352 Southbridge

Leather Jacket Heavy Duty, made by Custom Chrome, W size Lg, Zip out lining, Brand New $75 508-949-1320

Tiffany Lamp Approx 16" in height, Antiqued bronze base, $25.00 antiquesnk@netzero.net

New in box, 3 hot wheels Bionic Battle 20 hot wheel cars & loop (build your track) $25. Call at 508-410-1911

Tony Little’s Body sculpting system, includes bar, stepper and 6 DVDs $50 or B.O. 774-272-1264

Outside Steel Door 80" x 36" small windows at top, frame included $25 978-534-4182

Twin Bunk Beds Solid LT pine wood, sturdy w/ mattress, box spring & platform Gd condition 973-650-1333

SNOWBOARDING BOOTS Mens 10.5 Burton FS LTD very good condition. $50.00. 508-943-0189

Twin size "pineapple" Antique Bed $75 or B.O. Mattress included 508-865-7503

HELP WANTED

W A N T E D

icked big fan of Worcester Mag chiever atural communicator eam player xcellent organizational skills

where Quality still Matters. Valet Parking Attendants Needed. Work @ various locations in the Worcester Area. Full-time and Part-time positions available. Benefits included for Full-time including medical and dental. Fun outdoor work with potential for advancement! Customer Service experience is a plus. Between base+tips valets earn $11+ per hour. Call 877-455-5552 or visit www.valetparkofamerica.com/ employment

30

WORCESTERMAG.COM

etail oriented

These areare justjust a few of the qualities looking in our next These a few qualities we we areare looking forfor in our next account account executive.executive. Worcesteradvertising Mag advertising If this describes you, email jshone@worcestermagazine.com

• D E C E M B E R 2 2 , 2 0 11

(978)728-4302

LOCAL HELP WANTED TOWN OF SUTTON HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT EQUIPMENT OPERATOR/LABORER The Town of Sutton is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Highway Department Equipment Operator/Laborer. Complete position description and application forms are available from the Town Administrator’s office. Successful candidate must have a high school diploma, minimum of two years experience in public works construction and maintenance programs with experience in heavy equipment operation. Position also requires Class B Commercial Driver’s License or higher and hoisting license. Starting wage is currently $18.54/hour plus benefits. Interested applicants shall submit completed application to: Town Administrator, Sutton Town Hall, 4 Uxbridge Road, Sutton, MA 01590 no later than January 12th, 2012 at 12:00noon. The Town of Sutton is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

www.centralmassclass.com

CENTRAL MASS CLASSIFIEDS

EDUCATION

PETS & ANIMALS

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

DOGS/PUPPIES FOR SALE

MUSICWORCESTER.COM Expert Instruction, Guitar, Bass, Drums, Band Workshops Holden Center Studio 508-340-5012

Havanese Puppies Cute, cuddly hypoallergenic, great family dog. Holden, MA 508752-8396, 508-829-7423

JONESIN’ Across 1 Taste tea 4 PreÀx with scope 8 Stitch together 13 Razz from the audience 14 “Come away with me on ___” (Norah Jones line) 15 “Get ___ on!” 16 Mine, in Paris 17 Hits the road with the band 19 The underworld chase for author Deighton? 21 Injured baseball players go on them: abbr. 22 Response of agreement 23 “Crouching Tiger” director Ang 24 52, to Caesar 25 Ending for rubber 28 Numbers, pre-manipulation 31 Start of a “Flintstones” shout 33 Physicist Schrodinger of theoretical cat fame 34 Things you know are going to be in former Virginia governor Chuck’s recycling? 38 Like some unions or wars 39 Strength 40 Most smooth 43 “Broadway Joe” 46 Different spelling, in crosswords: abbr. 47 Part of a school yr. 49 Kindle buy 51 Not feeling so hot 52 Football Hall-of-Famer Ronnie, playing an extra in “Lord of the Rings”? 55 Nerve-wracking event 57 Suit to ___ 58 Crux 59 Fix the soundtrack 60 Former Steelers coach Chuck 61 Munster or Vedder 62 Long swimmers 63 Boxing wins Down 1 Jacob’s son, in the Bible 2 Tristan’s partner 3 Active hallucinogen in funny mushrooms 4 Part of a magazine

(978)728-4302

“Their Hearts Grew Three Sizes That Day” --a veritable Who’s Whoville. - By Matt Jones

5 Black, poetically 6 Oscar winner Mercedes for “The Fisher King” 7 Manufacturer 8 “To Die For” director Gus Van ___ 9 Pro at the scene of the accident 10 Santa Monica cemetery home to dozens of dead celebrities 11 InÁammation of that dangly thing in the back of your throat 12 Fluffy housecat 13 Derisive (or James Brown-ish) laughs 18 ___-Day vitamins 20 Popular 26 Flow counterpart 27 Cleanup hitter’s stat 29 “Yeah, I know that person...” 30 Failed to come up with anything 32 Reply: abbr. 34 Competed with for superiority 35 More information than is desired 36 Long Island Iced Tea ingredient 37 ___ pinch 38 Dish of Àsh cooked in citrus juice

41 Lat. and Lith., once 42 That’s a laugh 44 Overly, emphatically 45 Monopoly buildings 48 HLN host Robin 50 Music company known for compilations advertised on TV 52 Head of a French society 53 “Austin Powers” surname 54 They wear jerseys in Jersey 56 ___ Lankan ©2012 Jonesin’ Crosswords (editor@jonesincrosswords.com)

Last week's solution

©2010 Jonesin’ Crosswords (editor@jonesincrosswords.com) For answers to this puzzle, call: 1-900-226-2800, 99 cents per minute. Must be 18+. Or to bill to your credit card, call: 1-800-655-6548. Reference puzzle #0472.

D E C E M B E R 2 2 , 2 0 11 • W O R C E S T E R M A G . C O M

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CENTRAL MASS CLASSIFIEDS

www.centralmassclass.com

Professional Services Call Carrie at 978-728-4302 to place your ad ADVERTISE IN THIS DIRECTORY & REACH

SIZE PER BLOCK 1.75 X 1.75 8 weeks ........... $31.50/week = $252 12 weeks ......... $26.75/week = $321 20 weeks ......... $25.20/week = $504 36 weeks ......... $23.60/week = $850 52 weeks ......... $22/week = $1144 Minimum commitment of 8 weeks. ASK about double blocks (size 3.75" x 1.75") and COMBO pricing into our other zone and reach 50,000 households in 26 towns in Central Mass each week. FREE line ad included with each block purchased.

30, 000 households each week! Add another Zone and reach 50,000 households! Call Erin at 978-728-4302 for more information. Deadline: Monday, Noon.

Discount Oil

Concrete & Fence

Floor Covering

Home Improvement

Flooring

B RAD’S HOME I MPROVEMENT

<HDUV LQ %XVLQHVV

& 6 • FENCE ALL TYPES - Cedar, Vinyl, Chain link, Post and Rail, Ornamental, Pool, Temporary Security Rentals ‌ • STONE HARDSCAPES - Stone Walls, Pavers, Walkways, Patios, Concrete Work, Pool Patios

508-835-1644 for free estimate

125 Gallon Deliveries Cash, Check or Credit Card

Now Delivering to Millbury on Wednesdays 508-886-8998 24 Hours Service Only: 413-544-3572

Financial Advisor

W W W .OLDMANOIL. COM

32

Lisa M. Casillo Financial Advisor 325 Main St. Worcester, MA 01608 508-363-3900

CARPET & LINOLEUM 6T <GV ,QVWDOOHG ZLWK 3DG %HUEHU 3OXVK RU &RPPHUFLDO Free Metal Included Call Tom

800-861-5445 or 508-886-2624

DUMPSTER SPECIALS

10 yd. - $230 • 15 yd. - $300 Home Clean-outs Landscape Clean-ups Demo Rubbish • Appliances “Give us a call & we’ll talk trash.â€?

508-868-3276 6

PLACE AN AD ANYTIME DAY OR NIGHT. • D E C E M B E R 2 2 , 2 0 11

IInsured

Central Mass Classifieds!! Ce

BRAND NEW LOCAL

SELF-SERVE MARKETPLACE.

WORCESTERMAG.COM

508-829-7361 Licensed d

Refer a business to join our Service Directory, and if they advertise with us, you’ll receive a $25 credit on your account for future advertising. We appreciate your business in the

WWW.CENTRALMASSCLASS.COM YOUR

Remodeling & Repairs Kitchens & Baths • Windows & Doors Finished Basements • Decks RooďŹ ng

BUSINESS REFERRAL PROGRAM

SHOULD YOUR INVESTMENTS. www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

&DUSHW 0LOOV

“Over 30 Years Experience�

RUBBISH REMOVAL

LIFE DOESN’T STAND STILL AND NEITHER To schedule a complimentary Portfolio Review, call today.

(978)728-4302

Real Estate • Jobs • Auto • Services

Central Mass

CL ASSIFIEDS

www.centralmassclass.com

CENTRAL MASS CLASSIFIEDS

OTHER

REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE WANTED

NOVENAS

APARTMENT FOR RENT

Prayer to St. Jude May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be Adored, Glorified, Loved & Preserved throughout the world, now & forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, please pray for us. Saint Jude, Worker of Miracles, please pray for me. Saint Jude, Helper of the Hopeless, please pray for us. Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days, by the 9th day your prayer will be answered even if you don’t believe. This Novena has never been known to fail. publication must be promised. Thank you St. Jude and God. EH

2 Bedrooom Apt., Sterling, MA Sunny 2 Bedroom Apt for Rent. Large catherdral living room screened in deck. Private driveway. Coin op washer & dryer on premises. Heat, hot water & electric included. 1250.00 / month. 1st, last + 600.00 security required. Call Chris. 508-400-3514

Dorothy Pond, Millbury, MA, House or Land Wanted. Please call 508400-0512

(978)728-4302

SNOW

PLOWING & REMOVAL

Guide to

4FF .PSF

Antiques

0/ -*/&

& Collectivles “Oh My Gosh� Antiques & Collectibles Found at The Cider Mill

XXX DFOUSBMNBTT DMBTT DPN

DIRECTORY Briggsy & Son Lawn Care Snow Blowing & Shoveling Worcester Residents 10% Discount

15 Waushacum Ave., Sterling 978-422-8675 Open 7 Days a Week 11 am to 5 pm Thursdays 11 am to 8 pm To Advertise In The Guide To Antiques & Collectibles Please Call Carrie @ 978-728-4302

508-459-0365 508-414-6979 (Cell) Still Doing Fall Clean-Ups

To Advertise In The Snow Guide Please Call Carrie 978-728-4302

OUR HERO OF THE WEEK

Home Of The Free, Thanks To The Brave

Sgt. Gendron graduated from Fitchburg High School in 2000, then left for Boot Camp at Parris Island, SC. Currently in the USMC Third Battalion, 7th Marines Weapons Company, his unit has been stationed in Sangin, Afghanistan since September.

MILITARY HERO OF THE WEEK

Previously deployed to Iraq in 2003; on a ship deployment to Bahrain, Jordan and Singapore; he has seen action in Afghanistan in 2010 and again in 2011.

Is there a special service person in your life? The Central Mass Classifieds would like to feature members of our Armed Forces on a regular basis. If you have a special service person in your life, please email ejohnson@ leominsterchamp.com with some information, photo, brief summary of his/her service, and we will be happy to recognize them in the Central Mass Classifieds. The brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces should be remembered all year long. Call Erin at 978-728-4302 or email ejohnson@leominsterchamp.com for more information. God bless our troops.

Sgt. Gendron’s unit was awarded the prestigious Presidential Citation during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He is awaiting the presentation of his Purple Heart, to be awarded because of the multiple concussions he has suffered when his tank ran over IED’s during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. His wife, Sheila, and his three children eagerly await his return to California. Meanwhile, please keep him in your prayers as he endures another Christmas away from home.

D E C E M B E R 2 2 , 2 0 11 • W O R C E S T E R M A G . C O M

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www.centralmassclass.com

CENTRAL MASS CLASSIFIEDS

(978)728-4302

Our Holiday Coloring Contest is open to kids ages 2-10. Please mail your picture or drop it off to: Central Mass Classifieds, 285 Central Street, Suite 202 Leominster MA 01453 We will have a random drawing for a special prize on Monday, January 19, 2012

The following must be completed in order to be entered into the drawing: Name______________________________________ Age_________ Town_______________________________________________ Parents email (optional) _______________________________ Phone_________________________ Best time to call?_________ Which of our papers do you read? Check all that apply: The Landmark ❏ The Community Journal ❏ Leominster Champion ❏ The Millbury-Sutton Chronicle ❏ Worcester Mag Comments/suggestions for the Central Mass Classifieds? ________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

34

If you are on FACEBOOK, become a Fan of Central Mass Classifieds! WORCESTERMAG.COM

• D E C E M B E R 2 2 , 2 0 11

www.centralmassclass.com

CENTRAL MASS CLASSIFIEDS

Happy Holiday Wishes from Best Wishes For The Holiday Season Miles Funeral Directors Proudly Serving the Wachusett Area

Warm Holiday Wishes!

OLD MAN OIL 508 886-8998

May Christmas bring you all the “magic” of the season.

(978)728-4302

Wishing you and your family a happy and healthy holiday season!

“We care.”

COMPREHENSIVE ALCOHOL & DRUG TREATMENT

1-800-ALCOHOL www.adcare.com.

Happy Holidays!

Thanks to all for your loyalty and friendships!

From …

Creative Floors 1653 Main Street Holden, MA 508-829-7444

PEACE & JOY, Marilyn, M.T. Pockets Sterling Center • 978-422-8360

Marathon Staffing 38 Main St., Leominster • 978-840-8887

Would like to Thank All Our Loyal Candidates and Clients and wish them Happiness pp and Prosperity p y in 2012.

Happy Holidays and a Happy and Healthy New Year to all our friends and customers. Thank you for your business this past year!

Toomey’s Rent-All Center 35 Park Ave., Worc., MA

o l d m a noi l . c om Items Under

$2011

Treasure Chest ofCENTRAL FR MASS EE CLASSIFIEDS Ads!

508-791-2383

FR EE!

in the

SUBMIT ITEMS UNDER $2011 FOR FREE!

Here’s all you need to do! 3 ways to submit... 1. Mail completed form to Central Mass Classifieds, 285 Central Street Suite 202 Leominster 01453 2. OR FAX the completed form to 978-534-6004 3. OR Email the info with name/address/phone number to sales@centralmassclass.com

NO PHONE ORDERS ACCEPTED FOR FR EE ADS PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY... We are not liable for misinformation due to ad being illegible:

TREASURE CHEST - ITEMS UNDER $2011

Have you advertised in the Central Mass Classifieds before? Please check one. ___ Yes ___ No Name ____________________________________________________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________________________ Town ______________________________ Zip ______________ Phone _______________________ Email Address (optional) ______________________________________________________________ Ad Text: (approx 20 characters per line includes letters, spaces, numbers, punctuation) _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________

The Central Mass Classifieds would like to wish their customers, readers, colleagues and friends happiness, good health and peace this Holiday Season. Thank you for your business and friendship this past year. We look forward to working with you in 2012.

Happy Holidays! Erin Johnson and Carrie Arsenault, the Central Mass Class Team!

_________________________________________________________________________________

PLEASE R EA D TH E RU LES:

Maximum 4 lines (approx. 20 characters per line). We reserve the right to edit if ads come in that are too long. NO phone orders accepted. See ways to submit above. Merchandise Ads Only - NO autos, snowmobiles, RV’s, trailers, boats, ATV’s, etc. We have a special rate for these ads ($20 till it sells). NO business Ads accepted for this section. If we suspect the ads are being sent in by a business, we reserve the right to refuse. Limit 1 ad per name/address/phone number every 2 weeks. Ads will run for 2 weeks. Limit 1 item per ad (group of items OK if one price for all and under $2011) Price must be listed in ad.

DEADLINE FRIDAY 5 PM to begin following week • HAPPY TREASURE HUNTING! D E C E M B E R 2 2 , 2 0 11 • W O R C E S T E R M A G . C O M

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CENTRAL MASS CLASSIFIEDS

www.centralmassclass.com

Over 40 Acres! Over 3000 Vehicles! <:,+ 5,> (<;6 7(9;:

+(@ .<(9(5;,,

FREE Nationwide Parts Locator Service ;Y\Z[ \Z [V KV P[ VUJL HUK KV P[ YPNO[

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‹ -VYLPNU +VTLZ[PJ ‹ ,HYS` 3H[L 4VKLS ‹ ,UNPULZ ‹ ;YHUZTPZZPVUZ ‹ 5L^ 9HKPH[VYZ ;VSS -YLL1-800-992-0441 -H_ 508-882-5202 ‹ .HZ ;HURZ ‹ >OLLSZ ‹ ;PYLZ ‹ )HSHUJLYZ 6MM 9[L ‹ *VSKIYVVR 9K ‹ ,_OH\Z[ 4HUPMVSKZ ‹ >PUKV^ 4V[VYZ 6HROHT 4( ^^^ HTOLYZ[VHROHTH\[V JVT

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508-799-9969

We Buy Unwanted & Junk Vehicles SCRAP METAL ACCEPTED

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ROOKS ROTHERS USED AUTO PARTS

508-792-6211 Worcester, MA

Car For Sale? Truck for Sale? RV? SUV?

Run your ad until it sells!!

AUTOMOTIVE

AUTOS

BOATS

AUTO/MOTORCYCLE

2001 Honda Accord Good to exc. cond. 98K+ miles, insp. 10/11. Very clean, leather seats. 4 new tires, 6 cd changer. $6500.00 or b/o. Call 508-435-3660

1996 17ft. Boston Whaler 90HP Mercury w/ new trailer. $10,800.00 Call 508-886-6405

2008 Honda Metropolitan Scooter Black and gray. Mint cond. 469 miles. Asking $1650.00. Includes helmet. 207-289-9362 OR 207-4501492. 2008 Suzuki GSX 650/K8. All black with silver and red trim. Less than 850 miles. Cover, new battery, and lock. $5500.00 508-7926080 AUTO/RV 1999 Wilderness 28’ Single slide 5th wheel travel trailer. Rear kitchen. Queen bed. Sleeps 6. Awning. 1 owner. Exc. cond. Asking $6695.00 508-886-8820 Patriots Tailgate RV 1989 Coachman 57k orig. miles. Good tires, runs well. Painted logos. Perfect for season ticket holders. $3500.00. 508-723-6258 AUTO/TRUCK 1991 Ford F150 4.9 4x4 power window & locks , new clutch, alum wheels, cb radio 121,500 miles . Runs good, need a little T.L.C. $1,500 B/O 508-331 -2664 2005 Ford F150 Orig. 13k. Extended cab. Cloth upholstery. Bed cover. Like new, clean. $14,900.00 508-829-6854 AUTOS

ONLY $20 FOR SIX LINES FOR ALL SIX PAPERS UNTIL IT SELLS!

Reaching 125,000 readers in print AND online!

Contact Carrie at 978-728-4302 FOR SALE Subaru Mint Condition. Low miles. Garaged. New tires. New wipers. Need to see. Black with tan interior. Must see to believe. Call for appt. 555-555-5555

36

WORCESTERMAG.COM

Private Parties Only Deadline Monday @ Noon (We monitor daily for scammers.)

• D E C E M B E R 2 2 , 2 0 11

1988 Chevrolet Caprice Classic Engine & Trans. in exc. cond. Currently ins’d, regis’d and on road. Body needs work. $700.00 508852-7076 1993 Honda Accord New rebuilt 3k engine, clutch, tires, batt, new glass, full power. Must Sell! $2500 978-874-0546 or cell 978602-6841. 1995 Cadillac Limousine 52,800 original mileage, In good condition, black w/ silver trim $4,000 or B.O. 508-756-0687

2006 Chevrolet Aveo LT 5sp. trans. 4 dr hatchback. Fully loaded. Cruise, sunroof, pwr windows, pwr locks, cd player, rare spoiler, alloy wheels. Low miles, 35k. $6,900.00 978-5346727 2006 Nissan Altima Sedan, special edition, low mileage. Silver ext/Black int $14,000 or BO. 508-826 -0197

2011 Chevrolet Malibu Low mileage. Never seen winter. Many options. Factory coverage. Must sell. $17,000.00 OR B/O 508-769-4546 Mercury Grand Marquis LS 2003 Silver, leather, 77k miles. Exc. cond. In/Out. Nonsmoking, well maintained. Recent tires/ brakes. $5900.00 508-757-4753

CAMPERS/TRAILERS 2008 Fleetwood Niagara Pop-up camp, exc cond, 2 kings, flush toilet, shower, 3way fridge, stove, micro. Pop out din area to bed. 508 -395-1558 $12,500. Motor Home. 1997 Fourwinds 5000 Good cond, low miles, kept inside winters. Sleeps 6, AC, awning, recent brakes. Asking $13,500.00. 508-989-4558

4&& .03& 0/ -*/&

(978)728-4302 LEGALS/PUBLIC NOTICES LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Notice is hereby given by Pat’s Service Center of 5 Shrewsbury Street, Worcester, MA, pursuant to the provisions of G.L c. 255, Section 39A, that they will sell the following vehicles on or after January 6, 2012 by private sale to satisfy their garage keepers lien for towing, storage, and notices of sale: 1. 1995 Mercury Marquis VIN# 2MELM74WXSX699889 2. 2002 Ford Ranger PU VIN# 1FTZR45E02TA16855 3. 2003 Chrysler Sebring VIN# 1C3EL46X63N572694 4. 1999 Toyota Camry Solara VIN# 2T1CF28P9XC129458 5. 2001 Chevrolet Impala VIN# 2G1WF52E519260232 6.1 998 Honda Accord VIN# 1HGCG165XWA066965 7. 2001 Dodge Ram PU VIN# 3B7HF13Z61M295802 Signed Pat Santa Maria Owner 12/22, 12/29, 1/5/2012

XXX DFOUSBMNBTT DMBTT DPN

ANSWERS TO TODAY’S PUZZLES

To view current Real Estate Transactions, pick up a print copy of

The Landmark • The Community Journal Leominster Champion The Millbury-Sutton Chronicle • Worcester Mag And you will find them in the Central Mass Classifieds! Sponsored by…. Residential • CommeRCial • ConCRete

978-405-0017

• Exterior Painting & Staining • Decks & Deck Re-finishing • Interior Painting & Staining • Epoxy Coatings • Stamped Concrete & Overlays • Decorative Concrete Applications

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www.centralmassclass.com ADOPTIONS A Loving alternative to unplanned pregnancy. You choose the family for your child. Receive pictures/ info of waiting/approved couples. Living expense assistance. 1-866-236-7638\\ PREGNANT? CONSIDERING ADOPTION? Talk with caring agency specializing in matching Birthmothers with Families nationwide. LIVING EXPENSES PAID. Call 24/7 Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions 866-413-6293 (Void in Illinois) ^ AUCTIONS Wanted To Purchase Antiques & Fine Art, 1 item Or Entire Estate Or Collection. Gold, Silver, Coins, Jewelry, Toys, Oriental Glass, China, Lamps, Books, Textiles, Paintings, Prints almost anything old Evergreen Auctions 973-818-1100. Email everg r e e n a u c t i o n s @ h o t m a i l . c o m // AUTOMOBILES DONATE YOUR VEHICLE Receive $1000 GROCERY COUPONS. UNITED BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION. Free Mammograms, Breast Cancer Info www.ubcf. info FREE Towing, Tax Deductible, NonRunners Accepted. 1- 800-728-0801\\ CASH FOR CARS! Any Make, Model or Year. We Pay MORE! Running or Not. Sell Your Car or Truck TODAY. Free Towing! Instant Offer: 1-888-545-8647\\ DONATE YOUR VEHICLE RECEIVE FREE VACATION Voucher United Breast Cancer Foundation Free Mammograms, Breast Cancer info www.ubcf. info FREE towing, Fast, Non-Runners Accepted, 24/7 (888) 444-8216// AUTOS WANTED SELL YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR SUV TODAY! All 50 states, fast pick-up and payment. Any condition, make or model. Call now 1-877-818-8848, www. MyCarforCash.net* DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR SUV to the Childhood Leukemia Foundation today. Tax Deductible, FREE towing and fast, easy process. Call 1-877-754-3227 or visit www.mycarfordonation.org* CASH FOR CARS: Any Car/Truck. Running or Not! Top Dollar Paid. We Come To You! Call For Instant Offer: 1-888-420-3808 www.cash4car.com^

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NATIONAL ADVERTISERS CENTRAL MASS CLASSIFIEDS

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• D E C E M B E R 2 2 , 2 0 11

Two minutes with...

Donna Domiziano DONNA DOMIZIANO FIRST CAME TO THE MUSTARD SEED TO HELP OUT IN 1984 AND A SHORT WHILE LATER MOVED INTO THE THENNEW PIEDMONT STREET BUILDING’S TOP FLOOR, WHERE SHE’S LIVED AND HELPED COOK FOR AND SERVE THE HUNGRY EVER SINCE. What’s the history of the Mustard Seed? It started way back in 1972 by

two Holy Cross students. They had a storefront on Pleasant Street. They had a little bit of a fire, and they got evicted. They bought a three decker on this property (93 Piedmont Street) and a house around the corner that we don’t have anymore. There was a soup kitchen and some sheltering. Then there was a fire in 1984 and it burnt down. They had a big fundraiser and everybody in Worcester County helped donate money and they rebuilt it.

How does the Mustard Seed work? Who provides the food and who cooks? It’s

a Catholic Worker house. We don’t ask for grants. We run day-by-day with donations – “Give us this day, our daily bread,” literally. It just keeps going. Sometimes we get low on things but a doorbell could ring while we’re serving and food comes in, these little miracles every day to keep it going. We have different church groups and volunteer groups that bring meals and cook and when there’s not a day covered with volunteers then we cook. Ordinary people, that’s where most of the donations come from. In December, I think I’ve only had to cook once.

What’s the schedule here? How many meals per day? We do one meal a day, and that’s the evening meal. We used

to do the others years ago, but then it was just felt that they weren’t needed as much. We open at 4 p.m., and we eat at 5:45 p.m.. There’s two hours of social. We have coffee on and there’s milk and sometimes snacks. [Visitors] sit and enjoy each other.

So is there a sense of community here? It’s like a little family. A lot of young adults now have grown up in the neighborhood and we’ve known them from when they were little kids. Now [I] feel like a grandma. There are plenty of kids who have grown up and come back with their husbands and their children.

How many people would you say are here on a nightly basis? Tonight I would

say we will have about 120. We tell groups that we cook for an average of 150. Even when it’s a little bit more than that, there’s enough food. At the beginning of the month it’s much lower because people have food stamps or their checks. So it kind of builds up during the month, but it’s greatly needed.

Is it mostly a homeless population that the Mustard Seed serves? The majority

are. They’re at a rooming house, or they’re at a shelter already. Some have apartments. There is a handful that are literally out in the street. There are some guys who are still sleeping

STEVEN KING

out, and there is no talking to them about going into a shelter. We hand out blankets and we will be handing out sleeping bags during the Christmas period.

What have the holidays been like this year? Tonight (Dec. 16) we gave out

some Christmas turkeys and boxes of food, and it was really great because we don’t always have enough. Thanksgiving was very scarce around here. We only got 23 turkeys this year – a couple years, we got more than 100. Very, very hard it was for Thanksgiving. But I’m very happy that we got 28 turkeys donated today. We’ve given some out already but some are downstairs because we’re giving them to the families that missed out on Thanksgiving.

Do people come to the Mustard Seed more during a holiday than on a regular day? I would say yes. That’s why it was so hard to not have what we needed to give out [on Thanksgiving]. On

OPEN EVERY SUNDAY

Christmas they also look for presents and toys so they could have gifts for their kids. We have some pretty nice things that come in. Thank God for people from churches who have the giving trees. One year a kid cried because her mother made her pick out a big gift, but she wanted a Barbie. So I followed her out and gave her the Barbie and said, “Here honey, here’s the Barbie doll for you. Tell mommy she can play with the big box.” After that, no parent has been allowed downstairs [while kids pick up their gifts] — strictly the children. No kid should leave a Christmas party crying.

What can readers do to help out during the holiday season? Always food. That’s greatly needed – meat, like turkeys or ham, cans of soup. We never have enough soup for people who need it. Ring the doorbell.

The Mustard Seed will be closed to donations from Thursday, December 23 to Wednesday, January 4.

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