Worcester Magazine December 21 - 27, 2017 by Worcester Magazine

DECEMBER 21 - 27, 2017

WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

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BOYLSTON and WEST BOYLSTON COMING AWAY WinsloW Homer & england Through February 4

WORCESTER ART MUSEUM

Winslow Homer, Hark the Lark!, detail, Layton Art Collection Inc., Gift of Frederick Layton, at the Milwaukee Art Museum, L99.

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Kirk A. Davis President Kathleen Real-Benoit Publisher x331 Walter Bird Jr. Editor x322 Elizabeth Brooks x323 Photographer Joshua Lyford x325 Reporter Bill Shaner x324 Reporter Sarah Connell, Janice Harvey, Jim Keogh, Jim Perry, Jessica Picard, Corlyn Vooorhees, Contributing Writers Marissa Callender, Alexa Currier, Alex Polinksi, Editorial Interns Donald Cloutier Director of Creative Services x141 Kimberly Vasseur Creative Director/Assistant Director of Creative Services x142 Becky Gill, Stephanie Mallard, Colleen Mulligan, Wendy Watkins Creative Services Department Helen Linnehan Ad Director x333 Diane Galipeau x335, Sarah Perez x334, Cheryl Robinson x336, Media Consultants Kathryn Connolly Media Coordinator x332 Michelle Purdie Classified Sales Specialist x433

This Week’s Feature: Town Trippin’ Boylston & West Boylston

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his month’s Town Trippin’ features Boylston and West Boylston, two communities that are small in population, but big on charm – and the residents there wouldn’t have it any other way. They love the picturesque tranquility, the beautiful town commons and the friendliness of its citizens. Some are lifelong residents and others have moved there later in their lives, but either way, their hearts are in Boylston and West Boylston. From the shared benefits of Wachusett Reservoir to unique attractions like the Old Stone Church in West Boylston and The Other Place Pub in Boylston, these Worcester suburbs offer reasons galore to pay a visit. But before you go, be sure to join Stephanie Jarvis for this month’s Town Trippin’.

Worcester Magazine is an independent news weekly covering Central Massachusetts. We accept no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts. The Publisher has the right to refuse any advertisement. LEGALS/PUBLIC NOTICES: Please call 978.728.4302, email sales@centralmassclass.com, or mail to Central Mass Classifieds, P.O. Box 546, Holden, MA 01520

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WORCESTER MAGAZINE

- Walter Bird Jr., editor

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Where will you be at midnight?

4 City Desk 8 Worcesteria 10 Editorial 10 Harvey 10 Letter 11 1,001 Words 11 That’s What They Said 12 Cover Story 19 Night & Day 20 Krave 24 Film 26 Listings 34 Sports Listings 36 Crossword 38 2 minutes with… About the cover Photos by Elizabeth Brooks Design by Kimberly Vasseur

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citydesk December 21 - 27, 2017 n Volume 43, Number 17

Worcester’s Polar Co. rankles some with Boston seltzer fundraiser Bill Shaner

hen longtime Worcester-based company Polar Seltzer announced its Seltzer Jr. vending machine program in Boston last week, it was met with applause and favorable media coverage – in Boston. The Seltzer Jr. vending machines were announced a week ago, and about a dozen were placed around the Boston area. One is at Mt. Wachusett in Princeton and one is at the Polar headquarters on Southbridge Street in Worcester. Covered in rainbows, a unicorn, and containing the smash hit Impossibly Good flavors rolled out over the summer, the program was immediately lauded. But what’s more, all the money raised by the machines is going directly to arts programs in public schools – Boston Public Schools. This was a problem for some people in Worcester, who felt the company was slighting its host city in favor of rolling the program out somewhere it might have a larger marketing impact. The fanfare of the rollout in Boston was not shared in Worcester. On the company’s Instagram post, on Facebook posts of stories, and on Twitter, Worcesterites asked, “What about us?” and, of course, what about Worcester schools?

The vending machines as depicted in the company’s promotional material.

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Coffee is often what you drink after downing too many beers. But a coffee and beer mix? Dunkin’ Donuts and Wormtown Brewery just may be onto something. +2

WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM • DECEMBER 21, 2017

To the regiment that brought Star Wars characters to the DCU for a recent Worcester Railers game: R2D2 doesn’t carry a lightsaber. Just sayin’. -1

In hockey news, congrats to the Railers for a big win over the Adirondack Thunder on Star Wars Night. +2

Total for this week:

A weekly quality of life check-in of Worcester

Pawtucket mayor puts out SOS to Rhode Island to keep PawSox from bolting to Worcester. Too little, too late? Or will his offer for town to shoulder financial burden win over Larry Lucchino and co.? -3

Tracy Novick, a former school committee member, local blogger and a critical voice on education issues both in Worcester and statewide, led the charge with a Twitter thread. “We in Worcester can’t help noticing you’ve overlooked your hometown,” she wrote. “We know it won’t get you a snazzy article in the Globe, but we also know we don’t need to explain Second City Syndrome to a native.” Several members of the company’s management did not respond to requests for comment for this story. According to a brief statement released last week as the program was rolled out, Polar is “working directly” with Arts at Boston Public Schools and its executive director, Myran Parker-Brass, to fund visual arts education. The program is set to run for the next several weeks. It’s unclear how much money officials expect it will raise. Polar responded to Novick’s thread, saying a vending machine is stationed at the Polar headquarters on Southbridge Street. “Who said we skipped out on our hometown team,” they wrote in the Tweet. But in an email to Worcester Magazine, a spokesperson for the company said the vending machine was left at the headquarters because it was not installed in Boston.

More than 200 guns reportedly collected through the Goods for Guns buyback program in Central Mass. +4

Worcester is eligible for 80-percent reimbursement for new South High School, but won’t get it because state doesn’t have the money. But they can afford hefty pay raises for themselves. -6

New Worcester Police Department drug addiction recovery program aims to erase stigmas, increase help +3

Singer/ songwriter competition at Padavano’s ended this week. Some great talent and a whole lot of fun for judges. +2

{ citydesk }

Pawtucket mayor: PawSox to Worcester a ‘doomsday’ scenario Bill Shaner

f Rhode Island lawmakers do not vote on a bill to fund a new PawSox ballpark in Pawtucket, and vote soon, the city will pay the state’s share to keep the PawSox from moving to Worcester. That was the message Pawtucket Mayor Don Grebien aimed to convey with a press conference earlier this week at Pawtucket City Hall. He called on the Legislature to pass the $83-million funding deal to build a replacement for McCoy stadium. The deal requires $15 million from the city and $23 million from the state. If the state does not act, he said, the threat of the club moving its operation to Worcester is very real. “It is important for everyone to understand that Rhode Island is in jeopardy of losing the PawSox,” he said. Grebien named Worcester as the alternative several times. He said he’d heard from sources that Worcester and the PawSox are reaching a deal, and that the deal may be better than the one offered in Rhode Island. When asked, he said he didn’t know of any specifics in the Worcester deal. Officials in Worcester have been quiet about the negotiations, but news reports like the one last Friday, in which Red Sox President Larry Lucchino was spotted at Worcester City Hall, confirm negotiations are happening. Previously, state Economic Development head Jay Ash met with Worcester and the PawSox.

Gov. Charlie Baker has also signaled the state is on board with making the PawSox move a reality. At the press conference, Grebien stressed the threat of moving to Worcester could be a reality. “All this is now being threatened by a real deal on the table in Worcester, Massachusetts,” he said. A new ballpark, Grebien said, would be an economic driver for the area, which he said is economically distressed. The money, from sales tax, property tax, income tax and ancillary development, is what Worcester is after, he said. Though he said the best case scenario is the Legislature passing a bill in early January, he offered to pay for the roughly $38-million public contribution to the project with city money. In return, he asked that Pawtucket see all the revenue generated from the project. When asked how Pawtucket would pay for it, he said the city will find a way. He called the situation a “doomsday” scenario. “If the general assembly doesn’t have the courage and they’re willing to throw it to Worcester, we’ll figure that out,” he said. The state Legislature, however, has been marked by hesitancy on the matter. Leaders in the body have often said their constituent base is weary of any public money for private projects like a stadium. Many feel public skepticism of the project stems from the botched 38 Studios deal, in which the state pumped $75 million into former Red Sox pitcher Curt

Pawtucket Mayor Don Grebien talks to reporters after his press conference Tuesday. Schilling’s gaming company, only to have it fail after several years. At the conference this week, Grebian addressed the issue directly. He said the deal has

been properly vetted, and will help a distressed community generate revenue. “This,” he said, “is nothing like 38 Studios.”

DECEMBER 21, 2017 • WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

{ citydesk }

Councilors bid adieu to Economou Bill Shaner

hen outgoing District 1 Councilor Tony Economou looked back over six years of service at his last meeting Tuesday night, Dec. 19, he was, for a few brief moments, overcome with emotion. The councilor, who was lauded by his

peers as a quiet leader, a consensus builder and a top-notch servant for his constituents, said he’d wanted to be a city councilor since he was a young man. He recalled watching meetings from the audience as the room slowly filled with cigarette smoke. He said he pictured himself sitting in the very seat he spoke from.

“I always envisioned myself sitting on this side in this seat, and that was my first seat when I was first elected,” he said, pausing for several moments. “That was pretty cool.” Serving as a district councilor, he said, was a humbling experience, and a responsibility he carried out with pride. He left the other councilors in attendance, all of whom will go

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on to serve next year, with a parting message. “As you go forward, please don’t forget why you’re here,” he said. The meeting Tuesday was the last of the year. Economou’s goodbye was part of a yearly tradition, in which councilors sing the praises of the outgoing councilors, give them gifts, and a ceremonial chair. Mayor Joe Petty awarded Economou a key to the city and Councilor-At-Large Kate Toomey gave him a mirror engraved with the image of city hall. It may have been easy to forget watching the meeting, but Economou wasn’t the only outgoing councilor. The meeting was also Mike Gaffney’s last, but, as many anticipated, he didn’t show up. After losing the election he partially withdrew from in November, he hasn’t been to a council meeting, and there are few, if any, people in Worcester political circles who even know where he lives now. While most councilors sought to ignore Gaffney altogether Tuesday, Councilor-Atlarge Konnie Lukes employed a few gag gifts to poke fun at the situation. After praising Economou as hard-working and full of integrity, she gifted him a plastic shovel – a nod to the fact Economou would shovel his constituent’s sidewalks – but it wasn’t a snow shovel. Rather, it was a sand shovel. “If you get the chance to talk to your former colleague, Mr. Gaffney, he probably, from Florida, can tell you where the good beaches are,” she said to laughter from the room. “No more shoveling. But if you go snow shoveling, put me on your list.” She also brought a gift for Gaffney: an absentee ballot, saying she doesn’t think he even voted for himself. Lukes compared the two councilors. Economou, she said, was a politician that mastered the art of consensus, whereas Gaffney’s confrontational brand proved divisive and ultimately toxic. “He’s probably the most controversial politician I’ve served with in city government,” she said. “Some of us who run for office, and this is, I think, more typical of newcomers, can’t separate the public, political agenda from the private, personal one. And that can get us detoured if we don’t make that distinction. I suspect part of that occurred with Councilor Gaffney.” Debates around issues got emotional and personal fast, she said. But she felt it was important to say that, divisive as he was, he made several contributions to the city. “I think he had a lot to offer and if he pursues a political career in the future, his service in Worcester has provided a valuable training ground,” she said. Besides a small handful of passing remarks – Councilor Moe Bergman, who sat near

{ citydesk } Gaffney, joked the shovel given to Economou could have been more useful on his side of the room – the councilors largely opted to ignore Gaffney. Of Economou, councilors had nothing but praise. Bergman credited Economou as a leader who “didn’t have to say a lot to say a lot.” He read a quote from Aristotle he felt

Economou. District 5 Councilor Gary Rosen all but predicted a 2019 run for at-large in his remarks. City Manager Ed Augustus Jr. said Economou was beloved by city hall staff, who, he said, felt treated with class and dignity. “I hold you in the deepest respect,” said Augustus, “I really do.” From the crowd, Sean Rose, the man set to

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Konnie Lukes presents District 1 Councilor Tony Economou a present. The shovel is, in part, a nod to Economou’s reputation for shoveling constituent sidewalks. captured Economou’s style: “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence then is not an act, but a habit.” District 4 Councilor Sarai Rivera was one of several councilors, including Khrystian King, George Russell and Candy Mero-Carlson, to say Economou was instrumental in helping them get going as freshman councilors. “He’s legit, as the young people would say,” said Rivera. Others hinted, perhaps wishfully, that this may not be the last the City Council sees of

take Economou’s District 1, looked on as the council hailed Economou as one of the best to fill the role. Rose will take over just after New Year’s, when city officials are sworn in on Jan. 2. “Big shoes to fill,” he said after the meeting, “But I’m feeling very much up to the challenge.” Bill Shaner can be reached at 508-7493166 x324 or at wshaner@worcestermag. com. Follow him on Twitter @Bill_Shaner.

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Bill Shaner

LEBOEUF IS IN:

David LeBoeuf has made his candidacy for the 17th Worcester District state rep. seat official. Late last week, he announced his candidacy on Facebook. The Worcester Democrat said he plans to run on a platform of support for public school students, economic security for poor and middle class residents and fostering entrepreneurship. The seat is currently held by Republican Kate Campanale, but it’s up for grabs as Campanale has her sights set on the Worcester Register of Deeds. So far – and it’s early for sure – LeBoeuf is the only candidate to announce his candidacy. I’d expect at least a strong Republican challenger as well. Something to keep any eye on.

NO DELAY: Can you believe it? The Worcester-Framingham commuter rail line is actually improving. So says Commonwealth Magazine, which this week ran a piece looking at how this past November and the first two weeks of December had some of the best on-time rates in nearly three years. What changed, according to a consultant quoted in the piece, was that the MBTA and Keolis Commuter Services, the infrastructure management company, started – wait for it – talking to each other! Sharing information. Working together. Apparently before there was some kind of “unhealthy tension” getting in the way of things, and thereby the performance of the lines. I mean, honest to God. This is trains we’re talking about and it sounds like something out of a B-list detective show – a cop smashing his fist on the table, talking about how the feds are going to mess up the investigation. Just work together and make the trains run as they should on sound infrastructure. Jesus. Anyway, glad the trains are finally on time. Now, maybe, Keolis and the MBTA can work together to make the commuter rail actually good. Lest we forget, the trains merely showing up on time is so low a bar of success I don’t think it would be news anywhere else. COUNTER TERROR TRAINING: Police Chief Steven Sargent returned last week from

a trip to Israel, where he and a few dozen senior law enforcement officials learned counterterrorism tips from the Israeli National Police. In an interview with me, Sargent said he was impressed by the police communication in Israel with the military, and said he picked up some valuable tips on using social media for surveillance. While Sargent said the trip was worthwhile, and that it’s best to stay up-to-date on any best practice in law enforcement, some in the community have not been as keen about taking counter-terrorism tips from the Israelis back to Worcester. And picking up social media surveillance strategies might be cause for concern, given Worcester was one of the early adopters of Geofeedia a few years back. Remember that? It essentially allowed law enforcement to monitor people’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram lives with impunity. After heavy public scrutiny and some action from the ACLU, Geofeedia was cut off from Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and became essentially useless. Sargent said the social media tips he learned in Israel (he wouldn’t get into specifics) may be useful in cracking down on gang activity. Which, honestly, is kind of worrying, from a civil liberties standpoint. But he also made the case that terrorism is part of the world we live in, and it’s good for local law enforcement to be up to date on best practices, which is absolutely true.

NOT A PUBLIC BODY: Well, that settles that. The Worcester Regional Research Bureau was right and Tracy Novick was wrong. An Open Meeting Law complaint she filed in October against the Worcester Public Schools Strategic Planning Committee was overruled by the Attorney General’s Office. The committee is tasked with putting together a strategic plan for the district for the next few decades. Some, including Novick, have criticized the body for not posting meeting minutes or making their regularly scheduled meetings open to the public. It is the public schools they’re setting policy direction for, after all. But the AG’s determination, issued earlier this week, ruled the Strategic Planning Committee is not a public body, but rather a “private undertaking with the support of the superintendent.” The Open Meeting Law is a very quirky thing, and this seems to fly in the face of the spirit of the law, which is that the public should have access to the decision-making bodies of public institutions. But, for those who are interested, the committee does hold the occasional public forum.

BAG BAN: In case you missed it, Boston Mayor Marty Walsh begrudgingly signed a citywide ban on plastic bags this week. The action, which was voted on unanimously by the city council there, is seen as a bold step toward making the city cleaner and reforming consumer habits to keep trash off the streets and out of landfills. So now is as good a time as any to say that AtLarge Councilor Konnie Lukes has proposed a plastic bag ban several times over the years.

WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM • DECEMBER 21, 2017

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She’s also pushed for the city to adopt zero waste policies, or at least a plan to get there. She also wants to see the city take more action to pressure utility companies into fixing methane gas leaks that poison the environment and kill shade trees. People want to paint Lukes as a contrarian, conservative voice to discredit her, yet these are the most progressive environmental policy proposals I’ve seen in Worcester, or really among any city or town official I’ve covered. I, for one, would like to see the rest of the city council and city government take her environmental proposals a little more seriously. She’s hitting the nail on the head with that issue. A little less ideological battling, a little more working to build consensus around good ideas.

MEROLLI STATEMENT: A few weeks back (or was it last week? It’s all a blur) I wrote about

Tom Merolli, the Mendon Democrat who plans to take on Ryan Fattman for the Worcester Norfolk district State Senate seat. At the time I wrote it, he had only just gotten his campaign together, and had only a cursory statement. This week, he released a more substantial statement on his platform and policy proposals. He thinks the state funding formula for education has “left schools dry and grasping for money.” He wants to end the constant refrain there “aren’t enough beds” and move to implement effective treatment for opioid addiction. He wants to fight for environmental protection and “won’t sit idly by as water sources are poisoned.” As he said in his statement, “These aren’t Republican concerns. These aren’t Democratic concerns. These are human concerns.” With Merolli, a young man on the left vs Fattman, a young man on the right, going head to head, this is going to be a very interesting ideological battle to watch for a whole host of reasons.

1-800-HARDWOOD: The McGovern Crime Family is really out of control. Someone call

Jim Polito because this madness simply needs to be stopped. First, the council takes away my Large Chair – the one where you can sometimes catch either me or the Telegram’s Nick Kotsopoulos looking like small journalist babies in a chamber built for ogres. I wrote about that last week. Now they’ve gone and ripped up the carpet in the City Council Chambers too. There’s no carpet anywhere, no more stains, no more musty smell. It’s terrible. In its place now is a beautiful hardwood floor that was likely laid when the chamber was built. And I’m told they’re going to put a fresh coat of finish on it. The hardwood floor will undoubtedly add character to the stately, historic room that the gaudy carpet has long detracted from. It’s just terrible. This is the future liberals want.

THE ORIGINS OF ‘WORMTOWN’: There was a line in a Boston Herald story recently that didn’t quite ring true to me, not that I’m any real cultural historian, or know anything at all. But here’s the line: “Worcester has long had cred – as the nickname was given to Worcester for the heady days of the ’70s and ’80s when popular bands would host pop-up concerts in underground clubs; patrons were known as worms.” I read that and was like, “Ehhhhhh I don’t know about that. Doesn’t smell right.” So, to find out, I did what anyone would do. I posted the screenshot to a townie Facebook group and let the hivemind parse fact from fiction. The response was mixed. One person said it was absolutely false. Another posted a link to a post from WorcesterMass.com, which was apparently an active website once, with an email from a reader confirming that “Wormtown” originated in the local rock circuit here, but not that rockers called themselves worms, which still feels impossible to me. So hey, I’m not done getting to the bottom of this one. What is the real origin of the term Wormtown? Does the Boston Herald think it can get away with a forged origin story in Worcester? Is it forged? These are the important questions. Drop me a line (my email is in the tag line at the bottom of the page). SAY IT, IDELLA: Rarely a city council meeting goes by where Idella Hazard doesn’t speak on something. Sometimes, it seems like she’d speak on anything. At this week’s meeting, she explained why she’s one of the most outspoken residents in city government, and it proved kind of touching. “I do it because I am representing the public and it would be a shame if the mayor asked for someone to speak from the public and there was no one from the public to speak. I think there should be someone from the public. I think we the people should speak. That is what democracy is all about.” Amen. Even if I don’t know what you’re talking about sometimes. Bill Shaner can be reached at 508-749-3166 x324 or at wshaner@worcestermag.com. Follow him on Twitter @Bill_Shaner.

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slants/rants Editorial

Worcester councilor served city well

e hadn’t been on city council long — less than a year, actually — but Tony Economou already knew exactly which side of the bread his butter went on. He was the new District 1 councilor and constituents were riled up about road work at Forest and Salisbury streets. More to the point, they hadn’t been told about the project and were, to say the least, not thrilled about it. Economou brought their concerns to the fore, telling Worcester Magazine at the time, “I wasn’t aware of the project. Nobody was aware. People feel slighted that they didn’t have public input.” Economou took it upon himself to meet with Paul Moosey, then the assistant commissioner of Public Works & Parks, to help educate residents about the plan. The councilor also met with then-City Manager Mike O’Brien, and the project was delayed. Combined with his move around that time to join At-Large Councilor Konnie Lukes in opposing a Responsible Employer Ordinance, Economou had, in short order, put the city on notice that he was unafraid to speak up when necessary - and speak against what otherwise might be seen as popular opinion. He did so with respect for his colleagues and city officials. Yelling and insulting was not his way. Bullying was not how Economou got things done. Understated and soft-spoken, he did not turn to see where the cameras were pointing when he spoke at council meetings. A glory hound Economou was not. It should surprise no one, then, that in his last meeting as a councilor earlier this week Economou did not showboat, gloat and puff out his chest. Sure, there were accomplishments of which he is proud. But there was no air of arrogance, no hint of disdain for others with whom he did not agree. It is fair to say the vast majority of Economou’s colleagues are sad to see him go. That’s no slight against incoming District 1 Councilor Sean Rose. He will carve out his own niche. But Economou was a known quantity. He was, particularly over the past two years, the right councilor at the right time. While one of his colleagues - whose last meeting was also this week - was busy insulting and berating his colleagues, attacking anyone who dared challenge him and trying to gain control of the mayor’s seat - Economou’s was a voice of calm and reason. He never publicly claimed the mantle of “floor general,” but in actions and words he demonstrated leadership on the council floor, even if you did not always agree with his positions. Often, when an elected official decides to step aside, we bid them farewell and may not hope for their return. In Economou’s case, here’s hoping he does not disappear from the scene completely. And who knows? In two years time, he may well toss his hat back into the ring. Given his time on the council over the past six years, that wouldn’t be a bad thing at all.

WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

• DECEMBER 21, 2017

commentary | opinions

Harvey

Has all the best words Janice Harvey

ey! Listen up! I have a message for 2017: Don’t let the screen door whack you in the arse on the way out! I’ve been on this planet for a long time, and I must admit I can’t recall a year I’ve been happier to help pack its stuff. 2017, I’ll drive you to the airport, book you a cruise or pay your first and last months’ rent and security deposits on Mars, but please go away. And if your little brother, 2018, doesn’t arrive with a basket filled with hope, decency and sanity, he’s not welcome, either. Oh, and indictments. Tell 2018 to bring an overnight bag crammed with indictments. Just when I think I’m numb to the odious news that wafts from the White House like raw chicken gone bad in the fridge, along comes Donald Trump’s order to scrub from the Center for Disease Control’s documents words he can’t tolerate. The hot-button vocab erased by the most intellectuallychallenged leader to cross the threshold of 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. is as follows: “fetus,” “transgender,” “diversity,” “science-based,” “vulnerable,” “entitlement” and “evidencebased.” Analysts were told to use the following nonsensical statement in lieu of “evidence-based” or “science-based”: “The CDC bases its recommendations on science in consideration with community standards and wishes.” Just what does that mean? Is the CDC supposed to present its findings only after getting the approval of three guys sitting in a diner wearing MAGA hats? This is the clearest example yet of Trump’s propensity for denying the existence of anything he doesn’t comprehend, and his willingness to bend truths to please donors. We already know Trump doesn’t give a fig what doctors and scientists say. Look at his diet. The guy guzzles Diet Coke by the barrel and scarfs Big Macs like they were One-A-Day vitamins. He thinks coal is clean. He thinks we didn’t notice he hasn’t revealed his tax returns, but is shoving through a tax bill he says won’t benefit him at all. He believes the NFL will go belly-up because he says so.

No more Israel training trips To the Editor: It was disturbing to learn that Worcester Police Chief [Steve] Sargent went to Israel for training. What Israeli techniques does he intend to bring back? Declaring all non-violent Palestinian protests as “illegal?” Arresting and detaining people without charge for up to six months (renewable)? Using tear gas and “skunk liquid” to disperse protesters? Rifle-launched gas grenades and live-fire .22-caliber weapon as “crowd control” methods that have killed and maimed many innocent demonstrators or bystanders? Demolishing the homes of family members

He thinks Melania likes being married to him. He thinks we believe him when he says “believe me.” Thirty-two percent of a bazillion people liking him means he’s beloved. If he travels too far to the east, he’ll fall off the earth. If he digs a hole in the sand deep enough, he can reach China. Leeches cure headaches. I’m pretty sure that during thunderstorms, Trump thinks angels are bowling in heaven. Where is George Carlin when we need him? This banned word list looks like a bag of candy being handed to Trump’s backward base. Maybe, if the CDC refers to fetuses as “bouncing baby bundles of joy,” the pro-lifers will donate more cash to his legal defense fund – unless those babies feed the “diversity” problem. That leads to “entitlement.” I keep looking at this nutty list, wondering how we got here. I think Mike Pence must’ve suggested the CDC scrap “transgender” because, you know, sin. And maybe “vulnerable” too, because it makes him think of “vulva” and Mother would be very upset if he was dwelling on lady bits. I think the CDC should counter with this proposal: we’ll scrap those seven words when Trump stops using “very,” “very, very,” “disaster,” “special,” “sad,” “fake,” “believe me” “failing” and “pussy.” Seems reasonable. And isn’t Trump the greatest deal-maker of all time? Expept for when he’s not, which is never, because believe me, it’s evidence-based. Got that, fake news followers? Forget coal. Santa better stuff stockings with copies of Roget’s Thesaurus. Given Trump’s endorsement of Roy Moore and the evangelical support that kept an alleged pedophile on the ballot, we’d better come up with a new word for “Christian.” Meanwhile, I’ve got a new word I’ll be using to identify Donald Trump until he leaves office, one way or another: “Occupant.”

Letter

itor d E e h to t

related to an alleged perpetrator? These are not the kinds of Israeli methods that we wish our law enforcement personnel to learn or that we want them to bring back to our communities. These Israel training trips should stop. JEFF KLEIN Dorchester

commentary | opinions

“This is clearly a very local event and a local product and we’re very happy to be part of it.” - Rob Branca, local Dunkin’ Donuts franchise owner, on the launch of a new Dunkin’ Donuts Dark Roasted Brew with Wormtown Brewery.

By Elizabeth Brooks

1,001 words

That’s What They Said

“The Worcester, Mass. deal is real.” - Pawtucket, R.I. Mayor Don Grebien, in a press conference this week about the possibility of the Pawtucket Red Sox moving to Worcester.

“I put a lot of work into this and I’m not going to give it away. I know if I go and use once, everything’s gone.” - Rebecca Zwicker, a recovering heroin addict and member of the Worcester Program for Addiction Recovery, which partners volunteers with police to get help for drug users.

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{slants/rants}

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www.AustinLiquors.com DECEMBER 21, 2017 • WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

ELIZABETH BROOKS

TOWN TRIPPIN’

BOYLSTON FIRST SETTLED IN THE 1722 BY ENGLISH AND SCOTS-IRISH FAMILIES ALONG THE NASHUA RIVER LARGELY AS AN AGRICULTURAL COMMUNITY, BOYLSTON WAS FORMED FROM A LARGE SWATH OF LAND FROM SHREWSBURY AND A REMAINING PORTION OF LANCASTER. In 1786, it was incorporated as a town and named after benefactor Ward Nicholas Boylston, who had set up a fund that was eventually used to build the town hall and school building. Boylston remained an agricultural community until the mid-1950s, but it is still a “small, rural New England town” to this day, according to Town Administrator Martin McNamara. The Wachusett Reservoir, located in the northwestern section of town, occupies about 5,000 acres and contributes to the town’s natural beauty. The town common is very New England, with the stately First Congregational Church, a bandstand and historic 18th- and 19th-century homes. “It’s still a very small town with very few business entities except small offices,” said Judith Haynes, secretary of the Historical Commission and treasurer of the Historical Society. “It’s a good bedroom community for people who work in the cities, like Worcester or Westboro.” Boylston also benefits from the presence of Tower Hill Botanic Garden, more than 130 acres of beautifully-maintained plants in a year-round setting. With 17 different gardens, Tower Hill is the headquarters of the Worcester County Horticultural Society, incorporated in 1842 as a nonprofit educational organization. Haynes, who said she has seen Tower Hill grow from small gardens to what it is today, enjoys the peaceful nature of Boylston. “It’s a lovely town. I’ve lived here 35 years, and I very much like it,” she said. “I like that it’s fairly quiet and has a reservoir and trees that give it a more pastoral, country feel.”

WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

• DECEMBER 21, 2017

BOYLSTON SIGNATURE EVENT:

It’s only December, but Betty Larkin is already planning the town’s Memorial Day celebration for next year. That’s because in Boylston, the event is not just a parade on Monday – it’s a whole-day affair with a road race, crafters and vendors, entertainment and more. Larkin is taking over the planning reigns with her two children, Deb and Scott, in memory of her husband and their father, Joseph, who passed away earlier this year. “He did it single-handedly for over 20 years,” Larkin said. Already lined up to march in the parade, which usually forms at 10:30 a.m. on Scar Hill Road, are the Tahanto High School Band and the Stowe Band Minutemen. Students who win the school’s essay and

{ coverstory }

Median age: 44.7 Ethnicity (%): 92 White, 1 Black, 3 Asian 2 Hispanic, 1 multi-ethnic, 1 Other Percent below poverty line: 3.3 ELIZABETH BROOKS

PHOTO COURTESY OF DEB LARKIN

BUSINESS PROFILE

poster contests get to ride in the parade in style, usually in an RV donated by Fuller’s. Providing entertainment from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. will be New England Weather and the Tahanto Old Stars, and a magician will make an appearance as well. During the event, crafters and vendors set up their tables on the town common, and the Garden Club sells plants. The Senior Center sells coffee, donuts, baked goods and water, while the Congregational Church cooks up hot dogs. “If you know Boylston, it’s like an oldtime town,” Larkin said. “Everyone who lived in Boylston comes back for the parade.”

Number of students: 293 Dollar spent per student: $13,076.07 (2016) School budget: $2,701,535.60 (2015)

Dave Moore has been in the restaurant business for quite some time, but was always interested in the 1921 Worcester Lunch Car Company car that had made its home in Boylston at 59 Shrewsbury St. Now he owns it and proudly serves up his signature menu Monday through Saturday. A graduate of Johnson & Wales, Moore worked at the Mount Pleasant Country Club, now The Haven Country Club. “I started as a dishwasher. I worked there for 28 years and left as an executive chef,” he said. Moore also ran his own seasonal restaurant in Lake George, N.Y., called Chefee’s – the name inspiration for his new venture. But he always had a fond spot for the diner where he spent time working as well; when jobs would finish for the winter, he’d always go back to the 1921. Finally, fates aligned and he was able to purchase the diner the last time it was available for sale. After some renovation work, he opened for business Oct. 30. Although Chefee’s serves your usual breakfast and lunch items, “we’re not your typical diner,” Moore said. “Today’s special was shrimp scampi with roasted tomatoes.” He serves homemade soups and chili every day and plans to eventually make all the desserts as well. Breakfast is available all day, with lunch starting at 11 a.m. The diner has room for 26 at the tables and features 15 stools at the original counter. “During the week, we try to cater to the working guy,” said Moore, “and on the weekends, the families.” Municipal budget: $14.7 million (fiscal 2018) Highest paid employee: Chief of Police Anthony Sahagian, $114,452

POPULATION: 4,432/19.7 SQUARE MILES DECEMBER 21, 2017 • WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

{ coverstory } HOT SPOT

It’s no wonder The Other Place Pub is the place to be in Boylston – it’s been a fixture in town since 1980, originally run by the late Bob Shaughnessy and now managed by his daughter, Debbie Shaughnessy. Owning a restaurant was a dream her dad had always had, and he first opened a diner four doors down from the current location at 71 Shrewsbury St. He named it The Place, later buying a building that housed a deli and selling his original diner. He reopened the deli as a restaurant and called it The Other Place Pub. “When my father opened it, he wanted someplace good to go with reasonable prices and good drinks, and that’s what we’ve tried to maintain,” said Lisa Shaughnessy. “He was the personality behind this place. This place is what it is because of him.” Thirty-eight years later, The Other

ELIZABETH BROOKS

Place still has what Lisa Shaughnessy describes as a “cozy, dated, warm environment,” and she said that’s exactly why it’s the neighborhood place to go. Live entertainment is featured Friday and Saturday nights, and the menu has “typical pub fare,” she said, in addition to comfort foods like homemade macaroni and cheese and shepherd’s pie and specials, including $14.99 prime rib on Thursdays. St. Patrick’s Day is not to be missed – “It’s my father’s grandfather’s recipe. We actually corn our own beef,” Lisa Shaughnessy said. The environment and the people are what keep The Other Place so popular. “We have employees who have been here since the weekend it first opened and customers who have come just as long and new regulars all the time,” Lisa Shaughnessy said. “It’s a warm and inviting atmosphere.”

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21 Franklin St., West Boylston • wachusettliquors.com • 508-835-3131 14

WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

• DECEMBER 21, 2017

PHOTO SUBMITTED

OLDEST RESIDENT

Katherine Mikoloski may have a Polish last name, but she is Irish through and through – and that, she says, is her secret to living into her 90s. “My Irish blood,” said Mikoloski, who, at 97, is Boylston’s oldest resident. “My father and mother were both born in Ireland.” Born Feb. 19, 1920, in Worcester, Mikoloski lived in the city until meeting her husband, Edward, through a mutual friend and getting married. Edward Mikoloski was a career officer in the Air Force and the couple spent years traveling and living in various places with their three children: Stanley, Vincent and Kathleen. Katherine Mikoloski said even though military life is often categorized as being rough, “We had a wonderful life. We all enjoyed it.” After her husband retired as a colonel, they settled in Webster and stayed there until he passed away. Katherine Mikoloski then moved to Boylston, where she has been for the past 40 years. She worked as the manager of a bank collections department for about 15 years, retiring at age 71. On July 27, she was recognized as the oldest resident in Boylston and received a replica pin of the Boston Post Cane at a ceremony.

{ coverstory } THE ISSUE

With about 4,400 residents and a tax rate of $16.73 for fiscal 2018, the town has been looking at ways to lessen the cost for those who choose to make Boylston their home. Help will come from the FedEx distribution center being built on Route 140, according to Town Administrator Martin McNamara, noting the company chose the Boylston site for its easy access to highways. Other projects are “on the drawing board” and are “still being negotiated with the company and the developer,” McNamara said, adding that bringing in new industry is something the town has been working toward. “The tax assessment is borne about 95 percent by residential dwellings,” said McNamara. “It’s definitely laid at the feet of the homeowner, and we’re trying to get away from that.”

Median household income:

BROADWAY’S DEFINITIVE TONY®-WINNING MASTERPIECE $102,905 Median house value: $345,900 Municipal property tax rate: $16.73 (fiscal 2018)

BROADWAY’S DEFINITIVE TONY®-WINNING MASTERPIECE

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TOWN TRIPPIN’

WEST BOYLSTON IN THE 1720S, SETTLERS FIRST CAME TO THE AREA THAT IS NOW WEST BOYLSTON, WHICH WAS FORMED FROM PARTS OF SHREWSBURY, BOYLSTON, LANCASTER, STERLING AND HOLDEN. Squire Ezra Beaman, one of the largest landowners and referred to as the “father of West Boylston,” was influential in the town’s incorporation, which occurred in 1808. Beaman paid for a new church to be built nearer to his land, located in the western part of town, so he and other residents wouldn’t have to travel so far for worship services. In 1796, despite objection from Boylston, the western area was chartered as the Second Parish; precinct status was granted in 1796 and it was incorporated as a town in 1808. Beaman went on to serve as selectman, treasurer and the first representative in the state Legislature. Robert Bailey Thomas, founder of the Old Farmer’s Almanac, was elected as town clerk. The water power available from the nearby rivers attracted textile manufacturers and mills for flour, shoes, cotton and baskets. Those mills, however, would eventually fall to the creation of the Wachusett Reservoir to serve the city of Boston’s water needs. Only the Old Stone Church remains from the area that was flooded for the reservoir. One thing that hasn’t changed about West Boylston is its town spirit. “It’s a small community, yet it’s a very close-knit community,” said Town Administrator Anita M. Scheipers. “There is a lot of community involvement.” “It’s a community that takes pride in its facilities and infrastructure and is willing to put funds in to maintain them,” she added. One example is the new police station that was built on town-owned land at 141 Sterling St. and recently opened. Another is the senior center project, which is currently in the design phase. No longer an industrial town, the quaint residential community of West Boylston benefits from its original natural beauty, in part from the forest land that is preserved for the reservoir’s protection.

WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

• DECEMBER 21, 2017

{ coverstory }

HOT SPOT

After the recent West Boylston High School Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony was held in November, many of the members of the undefeated 1988 football team stopped by Finders Pub. “They all came. The place was full of kids,” said owner Kevin McCormick. “It was the same kids who came years ago. They then got married and had kids, and then they couldn’t come anymore. It was really nice to see all the kids.” In town for 18 years, Finders, 171 West Boylston St., has 240 items on the menu, multiple TVs including KENO, and craft draft beers (“whatever is trendy,” said McCormick). He cites the pub’s competitive pricing for food and drinks, great staff and friendly atmosphere as reasons for Finders’ popularity amongst locals.

Median household income: $68,673 Median house value: $264,100 Municipal property tax rate: $18.80 (fiscal 2017), $18.72 (fiscal 2018)

ELIZABETH BROOKS

W. BOYLSTON SIGNATURE EVENT:

West Boylston’s “It’s a Celebration” is aptly named. Held the Saturday of every Memorial Day weekend, the event brings together residents for a grand fireworks display at the town football field. The best part is, the funding comes from business donations and not from the town budget. Drive along West Boylston, Worcester or Central streets, and you’ll see flags with business names hanging from the telephone poles. That is what pays for the event, said committee member Francis Cahill. Local companies pay to sponsor the flags, which hang year-round.

“It’s just a nice place,” said McCormick. “It’s really well run, and the food is good for the price we charge. We have a great staff. It’s a fun place to come to.” Prior to opening Finders, McCormick and his wife, Kathy, operated the Beamen Tavern from 1984-1997 at the same location. They then sold the business, but bought it again 18 months later, renovating and converting it into Finders. The new pub was so successful that, in 2009, McCormick purchased a condemned motel building just across the way at 175 West Boylston St. and turned it into a similar restaurant called Keepers. “We needed more seats. Finders was so full,” McCormick recalled. Eventually, though, “they were competing with each other,” leading him to close Keepers earlier this year and reopening it as McCormick & Mortell’s Grill & Spirits, a “little more upscale,” he said. And as for Finders, it’s still the same as it was. “It is the place where people come to meet. If you want to see somebody in town, this is where you come. And if you don’t see them,” McCormick said. “I probably know where they are.”

Total students: 915 Dollar spent per student: $15,085.15 (2016) School budget: $8,413,020.94 (2015)

“It doesn’t cost the town anything to do this,” said Cahill, adding the event also includes a clown and a magician. “We brought back by the fireworks because the town used to have them, and then the town couldn’t afford to do it.” Cahill is one of four “It’s a Celebration” Committee members; the others are his wife, Sharon, Edmund Atchue and Steven Lajeunesse. “It’s a lot of work, but it really pays off when you see all the people at the fireworks,” Cahill said. The committee also helps sponsor the Christmas tree display that adorns the town common. The Department of Public Works buys eight of the trees, the committee provides the other eight, with West Boylston Municipal Electric donating the cost of electricity. The event is coordinated with the Historical Society, which decorates the bandstand with lights and a single Christmas tree nearby, for a grand tree lighting ceremony, which was held earlier this month. DECEMBER 21, 2017 • WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

{ coverstory } THE ISSUE

tor Anita M. Scheipers, voters approved funds to start the process of making the project a reality, but still to come would be a vote for construction and other costs, estimated to be $5.1 million. “We’re hoping that, because they approved $1.1 million for the design and site plan phase, that they will be supportive,” Scheipers said. The proposed building would feature six rooms, including a larger multi-purpose area, and is expected to be 8,500 net square feet. The current senior center in the rented building is 3,500 square feet.

With 2,200 senior citizens in town, West Boylston officials are hoping for a new building exclusively dedicated to those residents. The current senior center is located in an industrial building at 127 Hartwell St., but design plans are in the works for a project that would be located at 120 Prescott St., the site of the former Mixter Building that was once a school and then later the town hall before being demolished. At the annual meeting and election in May, according to Town Administra-

Conceptual design of the front entrace of the proposed Senior Center

POPULATION: 7,834/13.8 SQUARE MILES BUSINESS PROFILE

Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2018, Curtis Industries only recently moved to West Boylston, but already feels right at home. The company, founded in 1968 by Fred Curtis Sr., makes cab enclosures for tractors, golf carts and utility vehicles that are sold aftermarket to dealers or supplied directly to major original equipment tractor manufacturers, such as John Deere, Kubota and Club Car products. It now employs 125 and has an annual capacity of more than 20,000 cabs and plows. “He began making small enclosures – vinyl, very simple structures,” said Mark Manno, marketing manager for Curtis Industries. “It basically kept the rain off your head and the wind out of your eyes.” Today’s cab enclosures are more complex, manufactured from steel or glass, and some can even be accessorized with heaters, sliding windows or windshield wipers – and it’s all done at the company’s 100,000-square-foot facility at 70 Hartwell St. Although only about a mile and half from its previous headquarters in Worcester and just slightly larger than the old, Manno said, the new building was advantageous for several reasons. Previously,

WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

• DECEMBER 21, 2017

according to Manno, the Worcester operations were spread out over three different buildings, but “now we’re under one roof. I can go to production without going outside. Everything’s laid out more efficiently. We have better process for manufacturing and assembly.” One of the biggest benefits was the tax increment financing

COURTESY OF CURTIS INDUSTRIES, LLC.

$$$

Municipal budget: $23,360,000 (fiscal 2018) Highest paid employee: Superintendent of Schools Elizabeth Schaper, $142,616.35 (calendar year 2016)

Population: 7,834 Median age: 38.4 Ethnicity (%): 83 White 6 Black 1 Asian 7 Hispanic 3 multi-ethnic Percent below poverty line: 8

Curtis received from the town, with approval from the voters, to locate in West Boylston. Said Town Administrator Anita M. Scheipers, “We’re quite proud that they moved to our community and are looking forward to working with them.”

Watch for Worcester Magazine’s next Town Trippin’ issue on January 25 of the Wachusett Region.

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art | dining | nightlife | December 21 - 27, 2017

Rediscovering an American Community of Color

Joshua Lyford

“Rediscovering an American Community of Color: The Photographs of William Bullard” launched at the Worcester Art Museum back in October of this year. With the closing of the exhibition in February 2018, there is no better time to discover the museum’s moving and impactful collection of photographs.

William Bullard lived from 1897-1917, and in that time he was a prolific photographer. From streetscapes to landscapes, he offers a unique look at the city in which he was born. A laborer by trade, Bullard found time to photograph as a personal passion. Outside of the images of Central Massachusetts’ exterior, Bullard also showcased the people that called Worcester home. Further, he gives an incredible look at Worcester’s people of color in an era that often left the community under-served. “This is a period between reconstruction and the great migration,” said Janette Thomas Greenwood, co-curator of the exhibition. “It generally doesn’t get a lot of attention. There is attention placed on African Americans in the south in this era, and Jim Crow laws, but people of color in the north hasn’t really been addressed in this era. You can see the way that people are building and creating community life, the emphasis they put on their families and the hope they have for their children and their futures.” Bullard’s portraiture was largely unknown. After his death, his brother, Charles, held his collection, before selling them to his postman and his grandson, who later sold them to their current owner, Frank Morill. The collection consists of over 5,400 glass negatives. “He [Bullard] was a semi-professional, but he’s an unknown semi-professional,” co-curator Nancy Kathryn Burns said. “He didn’t have a studio. He isn’t listed among the Worcester Camera Club. I think of him as someone that might have had a different day job, but his passion and what he wants to do is photography – and he’s a beautiful photographer.” The photographs themselves offer a deep insight into Worcester and its communities – specifically its communities of color – during Bullard’s time. The value of the photographs in the collection extends far beyond simple aesthetics. “The fact that we have the name of the photographer and the name of the sitters is extremely rare for this era of photography,” said Burns. “This is lower middle class, or aspiring to be lower middle class. This demographic isn’t often a group we have names for. They tend to be cogs in the historical machine. Then you add the fact that we have the names of lower middle class African American or Native American sitters, that is extraordinarily rare. This is a real rarity in the history of photographers.” Greenwood, a professor in Clark University’s department of history, was contacted by Morill in 2014. Having written a book about the migration of freed slaves to Worcester, “First Fruits of Freedom,” Morill recognized her as someone that could find value in a connection between the photos and the

migration of the era. “I saw the negatives and I just thought they were so beautiful,” Greenwood said. “They were also incredibly rich, historically. They were taken in people’s backyards and on their porches. With the help of his granddaughter, he had figured out that each of these glass negatives had a tiny little number scratched in the corner. It’s tiny. When he purchased the col-

lard’s images. This opened up brand new opportunities and the descendants of the subjects in the photos were invited to the museum to connect with their families’ stories. “We wanted the descendants to feel like – the community to feel like – these photos belonged to them,” said Burns. “This is a really important group of photographs for the history of this city. We didn’t want it to just be our voices, or the Clark COURTESY OF THE WORCESTER ART MUSEUM

William Bullard, Raymond Schuyler and his Children, about 1904, printed 2016, archival inkjet printed on Epson Hot Press Natural paper, Facsimile produced from glass plate negatives lent by Mr. Frank Morrill. lection, he got the logbook, but he didn’t really do anything with that or the portraits themselves. Not knowing who the people were, he didn’t know what to do with them. He used the streetscapes and the landscapes.” Greenwood recognized a number of the family names in the logbook and eventually she and Burns along with the Clark University students assisting in the archival process were able to identify roughly 80 percent of the people captured in Bul-

student voices. It was really moving. There were people seeing their relatives for the first time. The people in the community felt that connection and we had some really powerful moments.” Reporter Joshua Lyford can be reached at 508-749-3166, ext. 325, or by email at Jlyford@worcestermagazine.com. Follow Josh on Twitter @Joshachusetts and on Instagram @ Joshualyford. DECEMBER 21, 2017 • WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

krave

Via Italian Table

FOOD HHHH AMBIENCE HHHH SERVICE HHH VALUE HHHH 89 Shrewsbury S., Worcester • 508-754-4842 • viaitaliantable.com

Veritable VIA Sandra Rain

Very little is missing from VIA Italian Table. Service is prompt. Dishes are hearty. Decor is polished. Most of all, VIA’s intense credibility ensures both the visiting families of Holy Cross sophomores and the cheer moms in town for the winterspirit-invitational will gladly drive across town for a nice meal, and they will almost certainly succumb to the valet.

Owners Robb and Madeleine Ahlquist opened VIA with the intention of capturing the time they enjoyed together in Italy. My favorite tables are those tucked beneath a large painting commissioned to commemorate one of their trips. This corner of the restaurant offers stunning scenes that also include a keen viewing station to the patio, where at least

one avid Tinder meetup is sure to provide endless entertainment. I would suggest the chopped antipasto salad ($13) for sharing, but I will warn you first that all dinners include an insalata mista - a fact easily lost in the fine print for unsuspecting out-of-towners. Still, it’s worth diving into the large bowl of diced salami, ham, chicken, provolone, red peppers, feta, celery, black olives, capers, tomato, red onion and Dijon vinaigrette. Just don’t expect a serving spoon; VIA exists to make you feel like family. The cocktails are tasty. On the right night, the cioccolato ($12), made with Four Roses small batch bourbon, fresh lime and Aztec Chocolate bitters, will emit the intoxicating aroma of warm cocoa. On an off-night, the same drink might lose its balance and forget its garnish. The seasonal mule ($12) is fun in its variance, currently featuring Absolut Elyx, local apple cider, lime, ginger beer and cinnamon. VIA’s wine list guarantees consistency. Order the 2014 Brancaia Tre ($44) for a festive dance of sugar plums and a dose of dry earth. Entrees are substantial, handily justifying their price point. Attentive servers are quick to recommend the braised short ribs ($25.99) served over potato gnocchi, tossed with

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VIA’s gelato is a must. The Michelangelato sampler ($11) will afford you 10 miniature cones. toasted walnuts, shiitake mushrooms and arugula in a light Gorgonzola cream sauce. Eat quickly. Nobody likes wilting arugula. The beef braciole ($21.99) is equally satisfying, boasting thinly-pounded sirloin rolled and stuffed with diced carrots, onions and Parmesan cheese, then slow roasted in a sauce consisting of tomato, prosciutto and peas. Rather than pasta, the dish is served with roasted Tuscan potato and whole baby carrots. In the cold of winter, I likewise admire the duck confit with sweet potato gnocchi

{ dining}

($22.99) served with dried cranberries, mushrooms and leeks topped with crispy sweet potato hay. Particular eaters can’t go wrong with the pork shank ($21.99) braised until tender and served with the braising sauce and a gremolata over Parmesan polenta. VIA’s gelato is a must. The Michelangelato sampler ($11) will afford you 10 miniature cones. In a group, it’s best to institute a flavor draft, assigning picks for chances at attractive options like peanut butter, caramel, dark chocolate, or blood orange sorbetto. The server won’t likely remember which is which, but I suppose that’s part of the fun. By any standard, VIA is commanding in its respectability. With sophistication comes age, a lesson learned by many restaurants (and plenty of cheer-moms, I’m sure). The awnings outside could use a good scrub and a few of the tables would benefit from a wobble wedge. Still, the restrooms may very well be the classiest water closets on Shrewsbury Street. VIA Italian Table is operated by shrewd businesspeople, not an army of Italian grandmothers. The menu’s old-world influences are limited, but their mainstream appeal is undeniable. On my last visit, our party of four rang up a tab of $222.52 for drinks and dinner.

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{ dining}

Bite Sized:

Leisure, Libations, and Local Fare Sarah Connell

MADDI’S MAKES HEADWAY

Chef/owner Adam Hicks of the Depot Street Tavern in Milford has plans to open a sister restaurant in the building that formerly housed The Perfect Game on Water Street. The restaurant will be called Maddi’s Cookery and Taphouse. Said Hicks: “I want to create a similarly approachable menu to Depot Street Tavern. I want it to be the kind of place where a mother could bring her daughter, but also the kind of place where a group of college guys could go to hang out.” He is excited that the interior will include handmade tables and chairs. Hicks attended Johnson & Wales University and went on to work in the corporate world of food service before opening his own establishment in August of 2014. “I felt a lack of places I wanted to go out to eat,” he said. “I decided to take the risk and open up my own place. We’ve built up a strong following but we need more space. Worcester is the perfect city for us to expand.”

MARY JANE AND MEATBALLS

Your last chance to catch Worcester’s remarkable Tom Petty tribute is Wednesday, Dec. 27, starting at 9 p.m. at Vincent’s. This is the third in a Tom Petty breakdown fueled by local artists: Sam James, Ed Barnett, Ron Mominee, Craig Rawding, John Donovan, Roger Lavallee, Annie Arsenault, Duncan Arsenault and Charlene Arsenault. The band will play two sets with no cover charge (if you don’t include the inevitable Vincent’s meatball sandwich.)

LET’S GET TOGETHER

One Love Cafe will pop up at 3cross Brewery Fri-

day, Dec. 22. Reservations are encouraged by calling 774-272-3969 or emailing onelovecafe@gmail.com. A $12 cash price tag ensures a heaping plate including vegan options and killer hot sauce. As always, 3cross’ cyclistinspired drafts are on rotation. I’m partial to slipstream with peaches, a special (and ultra limited) collaboration with the Regional Environmental Council’s FoodHub. For the project, 3cross made use of 60 pounds of peaches from Clearview Farm in Sterling - the perfect addition to their bone-dry saison. 3cross’ address is 26 Cambridge St., but you’ll find the entrance on Knowlton Ave.

Founded on Generations of Family Recipes Holiday Catering and Gift Cards Available Dine-In • Take-Out • BYOB

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New Year’s Eve Comedy Show and Dinner 7:30 p.m. All you can eat Prime Rib Italian Holiday Chicken (Sautéed chicken tossed w/fresh baby spinach in a sundried tomato pesto cream sauce) Stuffed Sole Baked Ziti Alfredo. Coffee & dessert.

WORMTOWN RUNS ON DUNKIN’

Wormtown Brewery isn’t shy about collaborating with corporate power players, as evidenced by the joint effort with Table Talk Pies this past autumn. On Thursday, Dec. 21, as reported earlier this week online at worcestermag.com, the brewery embraces Dunkin’ Donuts in their launch of DDark Roasted Brew, concocted in honor of the darkest day of the year - the winter solstice. No other brewery has ever been granted the opportunity to brew with Dunkin’ Donuts’ Dark Roast coffee beans. DDark Roasted Brew aims to be a decadent, stout-style beer featuring full-roasted coffee flavor reminiscent of freshly-ground beans. Plenty of Dunkin’ Donuts’ Double Chocolate Cake Donuts will reportedly be on hand for pairing.

KERMIT AND CAROLS

An outdoor screening of “The Muppet Christmas Carol” is set for City Hall Plaza Friday, Dec. 22, 5-8 p.m. The Worcester Common Oval Public Ice Skating Rink will be open for just $10 including skate rentals. Those who bring their own skates will receive a $5 discount for the evening. The movie is free and so is skating for little ones 6-and-under. Happy Holidays Bite Sized readers!

9:00 – 10:30 p.m. James Dorsey and 3 of the areas best comics. $60 pp Includes Dinner, Show, Tax & gratuity. Limited to the first 64. $30 pp for show only (If available)

Gift Certificates! Purchase $100 or more in Gift Certificates, receive a $20 Gift Certificate for you to use between Jan. 1 - Feb. 9, 2018 THE SECRET SANTA $500 GIVEAWAY

If you spend $50 in the month of Dec at any one visit (not including gift certificates) you receive a scratch ticket. Don’t scratch it! The scratch ticket must be scratched on a return visit in the month of January in front of a server. Every ticket is a winner and 1 person will win a $500 Visa Gift Card

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Joshua Lyford

I MUSTACHE YOU A QUESTION: It’s been awhile since Nominated for Best Middle Eastern Food

Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 11:30am-10:00pm Located at the corner of Shrewsbury Street and Route 9 in Worcester. Ample parking in the rear.

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we’ve featured Worcester’s own Fat Foot Films and their entirely hilarious “How I Dumped My Ex-Boyfriend’s Body,” but the team is back at it again with “Mustache Brigade.” I won’t hold it against the team’s press release stating they are Bostonbased, but the opening teaser line, “What if Quentin Tarantino created a movie for Monty Python?”, definitely makes me excited to check it out. While some of Monty Python’s work is a little over my head (probably more of a lateral move, really), “The Holy Grail” is one of my favorite comedies of all time and Tarantino has consistently made films I enjoy. Here’s the gist: an elite team of vigilantes use fake mustaches to hide their identities. “Mustache Brigade” is a web series kicking off Jan. 1, 2018 and if you have a minute (and can stomach wanton and gratuitous facial hair), check out the trailer currently on Youtube. com. The series will be up every Monday following the premiere on Fatfootfilms.com.

HARK, THE NEW YEAR: That sounds vaguely like a thing people say, right?

Sure, sure. Doesn’t matter much though, because the New Year is coming, which means it’s nearly time to guzzle champagne (or, as an alternative, the Champagne of Beers) and make a bunch of promises to yourself we all know you aren’t going to follow through on. Looking for something to do on that fine evening? Pink Talking Fish will be hosting “Big Ball Jam” at the Worcester Palladium and will “fuse” Pink Floyd, The Talking Heads and Phish. I love The Talking Heads and I’m fine with Pink Floyd, though I’m unsure how Phish will factor in there. Longform noodling over dark lyrics seems like either the best idea ever, or like musical oil and water, but I’m going to give everyone involved the benefit of the doubt. Because Christmas. They will be joined by Keller Williams, Percy Hill and Bearly Dead, a Grateful Dead tribute band. Intrigued? Grab tickets at Ticketfly.com.

ALONE (OR NOT) IN THE DARK: Currently ripping over at the Sprinkler Factory, “Explo-

ration,” a photography, film and multimedia exhibit, features artists at the Worcester Art Museum Dark Room, exploring photography. “The late Edwin ‘Ed’ Esleeck guided us on a journey of

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exploration, teaching us the fundamentals of photography as a science and art” reads the press release and, while I haven’t had the opportunity to check it out myself, I am always excited by what the Sprinkler Factory team is getting up to. Artists include Peter Bagdigian, Danold, Linda Davis, R. L. Hemenway, Dorothy Magadieu, Susan Sedgwick, Cheryl Wareck, Sharron G. Willar and Nicholas Yavarow. Closing reception is on Saturday, Dec. 30, so check it out while you can. More info? Sprinklerfactory.com.

BANG YOUR HEAD:

Is a subhead I’ve used at least a dozen times. My readers (my mom and maybe my brother, if he’s really, really bored) won’t call me out on it, though. So, to that end, head to Ralph’s Diner on Wednesday, Jan. 3 for Noisem, Nightfear, Blame God and High Command to get your dose of the riff. Honestly, I’m not much of a metal guy and I’d be a complete poser if I told you otherwise, but boy does that crossover do something for me. With bands from Maryland, Pennsylvania and New York coming to town to shred alongside Worcester’s favorite crossover sons in High Command, this one ought to be worth ten bucks. That’s two dollars less than an 18-pack of Busch Light at Mass Liquors. Think of the value.

THE FORCE IS STRONG WITH THIS ONE: I’ll keep this quick. I tend to give the Worces-

ter Railers a significant amount of love, but it was absolutely amazing seeing them defeat the Adirondack Thunder, 5-1, last Saturday night. It’s that time of year to start turning the slump around – and quick – so hopefully this is the start of a streak. The subhead? Well, it was Star Wars Night, of course, and the team had some epic R2-D2-inspired sweaters. It was awesome. Remember what I said in my last column? Well, Ashton Rome may have been a healthy scratch, but Woody Hudson finished off his sixth of the season. Also, 44 shots on goal? Yowza. Make that masked man earn it.

HELPING HAND IF YOU’VE GOT ONE: It’s pretty common knowledge that print reporters

are broke. It’s just the way the industry works. With that said, I don’t have a lot to give (for Christmas this year, I’m getting my family the knowledge that I’ll try to save enough money to replace my brakes in the next few months. The gift that keeps on giving). If I DID have money though, I’d donate it to the Rise Above foundation. If you missed our article a few months back, Rise Above helps foster youth do the fun stuff that kids should be out there doing, like trying karate, or art classes, or maybe riding a pony, or paying for prom. Whatever it may be, they do great work and if you want to help out, head to Weriseabove.org. Reporter Joshua Lyford can be reached at 508-749-3166, ext. 325, by realizing you’ve hidden these weird cryptic (and frankly, entirely self-indulgent) notes in your column for three years and being entirely unsure as to if anyone has ever even noticed them, but if they are – by your own admission – self-indulgent, does it really matter if anyone reads them anyway? Perhaps, perhaps not, but it still still seems like a brief moment of intense self awareness, or by email at Jlyford@worcestermagazine.com. Follow Josh on Twitter @Joshachusetts and on Instagram @Joshualyford.

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{ film }

Return of a dented Knight Jim Keogh

I never give spoiler alerts in my reviews, but as I compose my thoughts about “Star Wars: The Last Jedi” it’s probably wise to issue a preemptive caution: A plot point or two might slip into the following collection of paragraphs that purists who have not yet seen the film might find too revealing. While I would never intentionally ruin a surprise for anyone, “Star Wars” cultists play cricket while the rest of us play baseball, and I’m not quite sure of their rules. I will be as careful as possible. You’ve been warned.

“The Last Jedi” recalls countless movies in which a former super soldier or spy is coaxed out of retirement to help stop a threat against humanity. That hero is Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), who has been tracked down by Rey (Daisy Ridley) on his island lair to save the faltering Resistance and restore order to the galaxy. For much of her stay, it’s unclear whether Luke is the legendary Jedi Knight or a grumpy old man who wants her off his lawn. But Rey is gifted with Forceful abilities, and he reluctantly agrees to train her, insisting that will be the extent of his involvement. If you believe that to be true, you have never seen a movie. While Luke fiddles, the Resistance, led by Leia Organa (Carrie Fisher in her final role), is burning down. They’re a ragtag bunch, whose best fighter pilot Poe (Oscar Isaac) is often their only fighter pilot. He’s skilled and headstrong, leading Vice Admiral Holdo to declare him a “trigger-happy flyboy.” The line is cringe-worthy on paper. Delivered by Laura Dern while wearing a purple Patsy Cline wig it’s somehow unbearable. Dark prince Kylo Ren (Adam Driver), still licking his wounds from being bested by Rey in “The Force Awakens,” answers to the evil Supreme Leader Snoke (portrayed by the unassailable Andy Serkis through motion capture technology), who has wormed his way into Kylo’s brain. Deep into the movie, Kylo proposes he will drain the swamp and launch a new world order, insisting he can make the galaxy great again. While the film has its moments of exhilara-

WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

• DECEMBER 21, 2017

tion, especially a thrilling finale, “The Last Jedi” feels bloated. The movie sags miserably in its midsection when Finn (John Boyega) and ship technician Rose (Kelly Marie Tran, who shatters the perkiness gauge) embark on an extended mission to sneak onto an enemy ship. Their saga entails enlisting the services of a notorious thief and codebreaker played with stuttering eccentricity by Benicio Del Toro. His tics have tics.

Writer-director Rian Johnson has crafted an opera-scaled story that needs more finetuning to really sing. Too many sequences are capped with deus ex machina rescues just as a beloved character is about to be obliterated (Finn in particular is kissed with ridiculous luck). Johnson has also infused a good deal of humor into the proceedings — some of it lands (even in his dotage, Luke can be a hoot), some of it seems stiffly out of place. He’s included an unintentionally hilarious gag, which I can’t elaborate on other than to say “floating Leia” is destined to become a meme. Flawed as it is, “The Last Jedi” boasts moments of true wonder. The cinematography in the final sequence is gorgeous — masterpiece paintings come to life. There is courage and pain here, struggle, and, yes, hope. So much hope. What would a Skywalker-driven movie be without it?

New Years Eve

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{ listings}

music >Thursday 21

Karaoke. 8-1 a.m. Greendale’s Pub, 404 W Boylston St. 508-8531350. DJ Night - Every Thrusday. 9 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. JJ’s Sports Bar and Grill, 380 Southwest Cutoff, Northborough. 508-842-8420. Dan Kirouac. Dan has been part of the regional music scene for thirty years. When not busy with the tribute band Beatles For Sale, his solo performances showcase vocals accompanied by a six-string acoustic guitar or on the grand piano. From the one-hit wonders to the lost classics, from the 1960s to today, every show is a different experience, drawing from almost 500 contemporary and oldie songs. More information at dankirouac.com. Free. 6-8 p.m. Tavern on the Common, 249 Main St., Rutland. 508-886-4600. Jazzed Up featuring vocalist/pianist Mauro DePasquale. Worcester’s own Mauro DePasquale will get you Jazzed Up! This week’s destination for cool. No Cover. 6:30-8:30 p.m. GAR Hall, Bull Mansion, 55 Pearl St. Open Mic Most Thursdays @ Barbers North. To check the schedules and open slots visit: Bill McCarthy’s Open Mic World on Facebook. Bill McCarthy (originator of the “Half-Hour Sets!”) is your host at another great Open Mic Night! Email Bill McCarthy to reserve it at: openmcc@verizon.net (make sure you put “open mic” in the email’s “subject box”) To check the schedules and open slots visit Facebook. Bill McCarthy (originator of the “Half-Hour Sets!”) is Your Host at another great Open Mic Night! Any slot marked as “open” usually is! Free! 6:309:30 p.m. Barbers Crossing (North), 175 Leominster Road, Sterling. 978-422-8438.

WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

Open Mic/Local Musicians Showcase Every 3rd Thursday @ KBC Brewery. To check the schedules and open slots visit: Bill McCarthy’s Open Mic World on Facebook. Bill McCarthy (originator of the “Half-Hour Sets!”) is your host at another great Open Mic Night! Email Bill McCarthy to reserve it at: openmcc@verizon.net (make sure you put “open mic” in the email’s “subject box”) To check the schedules and open slots visit Facebook. Bill McCarthy (originator of the “Half-Hour Sets!”) is Your Host at another great Open Mic Night! Any slot marked as “open” usually is! Free! 6:30-9:30 p.m. Kretschmann Brewing Co (KBC Brewing) - Brewery and Beer Garden, 9 Frederick St., Webster. Chris Reddy Acoustic Christmas. 7-11 p.m. The Monument Tap, , Leominster. 978-798-1242. Open Mic @ The Blue Plate. Show off your musical talents, collaborate, or just listen to some cool tunes in a laid back atmosphere. Most Thursdays. PA provided. Free. 7-10 p.m. Blue Plate Lounge, 661 Main St., Holden. 508-829-4566. Open Mic Nights. 7-10:30 p.m. Medusa Brewing Company, 111 Main St. Hudson Ma, Hudson. 978-310-1933. Scott Babineau. 7 p.m.-1 a.m. The Mill 185, 185 West Boylston St., West Boylston. 774-261-8585. Amanda Cote. 8-11:30 p.m. Blueprint New American Bar & Grill, 9 Village Square, Westminster. 978-668-5580. Jay Graham. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Rye & Thyme, 14 Monument Sqare, Leominster. 978-534-5900. Open Mic Night With David Bazin. Acoustic Style, bring your acoustic instrument down and or sing and share your talent! No Cover. 8-11 p.m. Belfont Hotel, 11 South Main St., Millbury. 508-917-8128. Terry Brennan. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Quinn’s Irish Pub, 715 West Boylston St. 508-459-2025. Audio Wasabi. 8:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Gardner Ale House, 74 Parker St., Gardner. 978-669-0122. HiFi Wards electric blues. Peter Ward, Bob Berry and George Dellomo play the blues and some classic country too! No cover charge. 8:30-10:30 p.m. Dunny’s Tavern, 291 East Main St., East Brookfield.

• DECEMBER 21, 2017

Kristen Ford, From Nashville TN Returns to Nick’s. Based out of Nashville, Tennessee, Kristen Ford plays indie rock which teeters into americana, electronic and pop. Her high energy live show as a one woman looping band has brought her to 48 states and 6 countries. kristenfordmusic.com/ Free. 8:30-11:59 p.m. Nick’s Bar and Restaurant, 124 Millbury St. 508-753-4030 or find them on Facebook. Center Stage Karaoke. Come on down and take center stage. Thursday is Karaoke night at Beatniks. 9PM...No Cover No Cover. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Beatnik’s, 433 Park Ave. 508-926-8877. Karaoke. DJ Nancy, of Star Sound Entertainment. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Club KasBar, 234 Southwest Cutoff. 508-798-8385. Karaoke Party with Matty J! 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Padavano’s Place, 358 Shrewsbury St. 774-823-3022. Kevin Shields. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Michael’s Cigar Bar, 1 Exchange Place. 508-459-9035. Sam James Performs at Loft, Thurs at 9. 9-11:59 p.m. Loft 266 Bar & Lounge, 266 Park Ave. 508-796-5177. Thirsty Thursdays. Worcester’s New Weekly Club Night brought to you by Subterra Entertainment When: Thursdays Where: The Cove Music Hall Why: Because you like to Party! All your favortie tunes mixed and remixed! Pop | Dance | House | Remixes | Underground | Vocal $2 Drafts | $3 Beers | $3 Shots | Drink Specials Huge sound & light show! Free Street and Lot Parking all night Hosted By: Massappeal DJ Ray Toreba Spacedrift 9pm - 2am // 21+ // $5 Door Ladies Free Before 10pm No Dress Code $5 at the door- Ladies free until 10pm. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. The Cove Music Hall, 89 Green St. 508-363-1888 or thecovemusichall.com DJ Cuzn Kev. 10 p.m.-2 a.m. Whiskey on Water, 97 Water St. DJ 21+Canal. Live Dj pushing out all the latest hits for you’re listening and dancing pleasure! (Thursday is college night @ the Canal) N/A. 10:30 p.m.-1:45 a.m. Canal Restaurant & Bar, 65 Water St. 508-9268353. DJ X Kaliber Performs at Loft at 11. 11-11:59 p.m. Loft 266 Bar & Lounge, 266 Park Ave. 508-796-5177.

>Friday 22

Blue Light Bandits CD Release Party. Blue Light Bandits is a four-piece groove rock band from Worcester $10 at the Door 21+ to Enter Doors at 8pm $10 at the door. 8-1 a.m. The Cove Music Hall, 89 Green St. 508-363-1888 or find them on Facebook. Fellowship of the King/Elvis Tribute. Founded in 2014, The Fellowship of The King performs career-spanning music of Elvis Presley with skill, respect, passion, love and above all, authenticity. The favorites you love, the hits you know, and rare gems that are sure to impress are all on display. The music of “The King” is alive and well and the Fellowship carries on the legacy of Elvis’ unrivaled artistry. See Elvis done right! 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Michael’s Cigar Bar, 1 Exchange Place. 508-459-9035. Carlos Odria: guitarist | composer | musicologist. Peruvianborn guitarist Carlos Odria has been described as a “breathtakingly talented musician with an immense technical skill” (Worcester Telegram) and as a “guitar wizard” (Gamble Rogers Fest). His original compositions and arrangements of jazz standards and Latin American tunes deliver an exciting blend of international styles such as bossanova, AfroPeruvian festejo, rumba flamenca, and Afro-Caribbean vibes with an improvisational approach inspired by the rich tradition of American jazz. No Cover- Reservations Suggested. 6:30-9:30 p.m. The UXLocale, 510 Hartford Ave West, Uxbridge. 508-779-7515 or theuxlocale.com Adam Makes Noise. 7-10 p.m. Medusa Brewing Company, 111 Main St. Hudson Ma, Hudson. 978-310-1933. Bill McCarthy Every Friday at Barbers Crossing North. Now catch Bill McCarthy playing his heart out every Friday at Barbers North (Sterling, MA) @6:30pm Visit: BillMcCarthyMusic.com for info. Free! 7-10 p.m. Barbers Crossing (North), 175 Leominster Road, Sterling. 978-422-8438. Deja Vue. 7 p.m.-1 a.m. The Monument Tap, Leominster. 978-7981242. Jim Perry. Jim is an amazing musician who’ll keep you moving

DEC. 30th 7:05pm

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS NIGHT RAILERS SCARF GIVEAWAY

DECEMBER 21, 2017 â&#x20AC;¢ WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

JCC MEMBERSHIP OPEN HOUSE Sunday, January 7, 11am—2pm

Facility Tours • Refreshments • Raffle Prizes Meet our Staff • Special Drop in Classes

ONE DAY Y ONL

• 15% Savings or More* • No Enrollment Fee ($100 Savings)* • Free Fitness Assessment ($25 Value) • 10% Off Personal Training Packages

JOIN TODAY - Contact Monica Maher at 508.756.7109 x 236 or mmaher@worcesterjcc.org *6 or 12 month membership commitment. Offer Valid 1/7/18 only. Valid for first time members or those whose renewal dates has expired 6 months or more. Not valid with any other offers. All other promotions excluded. 1/8/18—1/14/18: Save $20.18 off Enrollment Fee & 10% off personal training packages.

Worcester JCC 633 Salisbury Street, Worcester, MA worcesterjcc.org • 508.756.7109

Entire Community Welcome

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throughout the night! Come catch some of the best live music around, and grab a bite to eat and a few drinks with friends! N/A. 7-10 p.m. Canal Restaurant & Bar, Bar / Lounge, 65 Water St. 508-926-8353 or find them on Facebook. John Henry’s Hammer Open Mic. Great place to try out tunes, network, get your performance posted on YouTube and hang out in Worcester’s best open mic ‘listening’ venue. Bring a date, enjoy snacks for a small donation and have some fun. Runs every 2nd & 4th Friday of the month - barring holidays. 7-10:30 p.m. First Unitarian Church, John Henry’s Hammer Coffeehouse, 90 Main St. 508-757-2708 or find them on Facebook. Johnny Taylor. 7-10 p.m. Compass Tavern, 90 Harding St. 508-3046044. Amanda Cote. 7:30-10:30 p.m. Happy Jack’s, 785 North Main St., Leominster. 978-466-3433. April Ranzella. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Tavern on Central, 3 Central St., Ashburnham. 978-827-1272. Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. South Side Grille & Margarita Factory, 242 West Broadway, Gardner. 978-6321057. Frank Pupillo. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Quinn’s Irish Pub, 715 West Boylston St. 508-459-2025. Free Entertainment. Free. 8-10:30 p.m. Chuck’s Steakhouse, 10 Prospect St., Auburn. 508-832-2553. Full Monty. 8 p.m.-2 a.m. Forty’s, 1030 Central St., Leominster. 978-534-7026. Fun With Hands. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Rye & Thyme, 14 Monument Square, Leominster. 978-534-5900. James Keyes. 8-11 p.m. 435 Bar & Grill, 435 Lancaster St.,

Leominster. Live Music. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Black Sheep Tavern, 261 Leominster Road, Sterling. 978-422-8484. Mike Melendez. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. The GazBar Sports Grill, 1045 Central St., Leominster. Sam James. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. The Mill 185, 185 West Boylston St., West Boylston. 774-261-8585. Scott Babineau. 8-11:30 p.m. Blueprint New American Bar & Grill, 9 Village Square, Westminster. 978-668-5580. Two Timers Performs at Loft, Saturday at 8. 8-11:59 p.m. Loft 266 Bar & Lounge, 266 Park Ave. 508-796-5177. Every Friday Karaoke. 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Wong Dynasty and Yankee Grill, 176 Reservoir St., Holden. 508-829-2188. Karaoke. 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Foodworks, Route 20. 508-752-0938. Live Music. 8:30 p.m.-1 a.m. Gardner Ale House, 74 Parker St., Gardner. 978-669-0122. Dirty Deeds Live at JJ’s. 9 p.m.-midnight JJ’s Sports Bar and Grill, 380 Southwest Cutoff, Northborough. 508-842-8420. Every Friday - Original Rock Bands. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Speakers Night Club, 19 Weed St., Marlborough. 508-439-9314. Guest and House DJ’S. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. MB Lounge, 40 Grafton St. 508-799-4521 or mblounge.com Jennifer Antkowiak & Tom Lamark Live Jazz. “Jennifer’s timeless sound hearkens back to the Golden Age of music, of style and sophistication. Her beautiful voice and captivating personality delight audiences who smile and sing along. She is the epitome of lady-like elegance and playful sensuality, a picture of vintage glamour.” ~ Nicole Watson, Nick’s Bar & Cabaret Jennifer was born in a small town in central Massachusetts and grew up listening to her father sing in church choirs and pageants until she was old enough to sing along with him. She sang and studied music throughout high school and college, and continues to entertain audiences throughout New England. Her repertoire ranges from The Great American Songbook to folk to Opera. Dubbed by

Worcester’s Best Chef Competition

11TH ANNIVERSARY

YOU VOTE

MECHANICS HALL | 321 MAIN ST., WORCESTER | SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2018 | 5-8:30PM

Worcester’s Best Chef Competition is the premier culinary event throughout Central New England and boasts the most exclusive, creative and finest epicurean masterpieces to be found anywhere. This event showcases the highest level of culinary talent in the region, and also assists students of the culinary arts. Come eat, drink and vote your palate in the People’s Choice competition — taste through specialty cocktail tastings, selections from prestigious wineries & craft beer brewers, experience the thrill of a live Iron Chef competition, and be part of the landmark event to crown Worcester’s Best Chef! Individual Entrance Times & Ticket Prices Vary Please Go Online To Reserve Your Arrival 2017 “Best of the Best” Iron Chef champion Chef William Nemeroff

No Tickets Will be Available At The Door •

WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

• DECEMBER 21, 2017

WorcestersBestChef.com

PHOTO CREDIT JOE SANTA MARIA/KILL THE BALL MEDIA

PRESENTED BY

DECEMBER 21, 2017 â&#x20AC;¢ WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

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jazz legend, Carol Sloane, as having “joy and sweetness in abundance”, Jennifer’s uptempo numbers delight while her sultry ballads intrigue and hint at much deeper emotions. 9-11:59 p.m. Nick’s Bar and Restaurant, 124 Millbury St. 508-753-4030. Karaoke. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Partner’s Pub, 970 South St., Fitchburg. 978345-5051. Karaoke Fridays at Three G’s Sportsbar. Join Magic Mike Entertainment every Friday night for Karaoke! Free! 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Three G’s Sports Bar, 152 Millbury St. magicmikeentertainment.com Karaoke with DJ Bruce. Free. 9 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Meiji Asian Cuisine, 24 Leicester St., North Oxford. 508-731-0120. On the Rocks. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Whiskey on Water, 97 Water St. Riff Raff. $5. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Greendale’s Pub, 404 W Boylston St. 508-853-1350. Sons Lunaris. Hard Rock and Blues band from Lowell. Great band and sound. Come check them out, support local music and enjoy a good show. $5. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Beatnik’s, 433 Park Ave. 508-926-8877. Take Two. 9:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Padavano’s Place, 358 Shrewsbury St. 774-823-3022. DJ Tec Threat (upstairs). 10 p.m.-2 a.m. Whiskey on Water, 97 Water St. DJ’s. 10 p.m.-2 a.m. Compass Tavern, 90 Harding St. 508-304-6044. DJ 21+Canal. Live Dj pushing out all the latest hits for you’re listening and dancing pleasure! (Thursday is college night @ the Canal) N/A. 10:30 p.m.-1:45 a.m. Canal Restaurant & Bar, 65 Water St. 508-9268353. DJ Joe T Performs at Loft at 11. 11-11:59 p.m. Loft 266 Bar & Lounge, 266 Park Ave. 508-796-5177. Safe House Radio Show. This is a live radio broadcast with 2

4-7 p.m. Rapscallion Brewery & Tap Room, 195 Arnold Road, Fiskdale. 617-869-5702 or find them on Facebook. Rick Hamel Live. 6-9 p.m. Park Grill and Spirits, 257 Park Ave. Open Mic! Come join our weekly open mic night! Hosted by Stephen Wright. All family friendly performers welcome. Show up and add your name to the list. Look forward to having you! 6:30-9 p.m. Nu Cafe, 335 Chandler St. 508-926-8800 or nucafe.com Dana Lewis Live! Every Saturday night. Live, acoustic music, Family food, Full Bar, Lottery and Me! Playing the Hits of the 50’s to the 80’s. “The Sound Track of your Youth” No Cover. Be There! Free! 7-10 p.m. Nancy’s Quaker Tavern, 466 Quaker Hgwy (Route146a), Uxbridge. 508779-0901 or find them on Facebook. >Saturday 23 Hip Swayers Trio. You need a cup of coffee! So sway our way for Holiday Party - Featured Artists all afternoon! 1-10:30 some hip trio action! Free. 7-9 p.m. Espress Yourself Coffee, 2 Richmond p.m. Medusa Brewing Company, 111 Main St. Hudson Ma, Hudson. Ave. 508-755-3300. 978-310-1933. Jared Fiske. Jared Fiske is a talented musician who plays a wide Sip & Stitch Saturdays. Every Saturday at 1PM. Most every genre of music. Come on in and enjoy a night of entertainment, dinner Saturday afternoon Creatives come together at Nick’s armed with knitting and drinks. N/A. 7-10 p.m. Canal Restaurant & Bar, Bar / Lounge, 65 bags and sewing needles. Come with an existing project or start a new Water St. 508-926-8353 or find them on Facebook. one. Meet like minded people, knit/sew/crochet, share food and drinks Lydia Warren & Jeff Beck. 7-11 p.m. The Monument Tap, Leominster. 978-798-1242. made by Jeff at the Bar and have fun! Come as you are, Come as you Alan Goodrich. 7:30-10:30 p.m. Happy Jack’s, 785 North Main St., will. Drop in, drop out. Free! 1-5 p.m. Nick’s Bar and Restaurant, 124 Leominster. 978-466-3433. Millbury St. 508-753-4030 or find them on Facebook. Hip Swayers Trio. Hip Swayers Trio with Dan Villani make our debut Jazzed Up featuring vocalist/pianist Mauro DePasquale. Worcester’s own Mauro DePasquale will get you Jazzed Up! This week’s appearance at this treasure of a venue! 2-5 p.m. Homefield Kitchen & destination for cool. No Cover. 7:30-10 p.m. FISH, 29 South Bolton St., Brewery, 3 Arnold Road, Sturbridge, Fiskdale. Pitch and Sip, cards and drinks, Saturdays at Nick’s. Like Marlborough. 508-460-3474. card games? Come play Pitch, Here’s how. wikihow.com/Play-Pitch High, Brett Brumby. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. The Mill 185, 185 West Boylston St., West Boylston. 774-261-8585. Low, Jack, Game, play to 11. Not a league, just an ongoing Saturday pick up game. Free. 2-5 p.m. Nick’s Bar and Restaurant, 124 Millbury St. Brian Chaffee. 8-11:30 p.m. Blueprint New American Bar & Grill, 9 Village Square, Westminster. 978-668-5580. 508-753-4030 or find them on Facebook. Boogie Chillin’. Americana, blues, & more. Jon Bonner - guitar, vocals Dave Mack Performs at Loft, Saturday at 8. 8-11 p.m. Loft Dan Villani - fiddle Fernando Perez - percussion Matt McManamon - Bass 266 Bar & Lounge, 266 Park Ave. 508-796-5177.

living DJs hoping to drag you out of your lonely IPods and phone apps to hear the local & national metal, thrash, screamo, punk and alternative you wont hear on mainstream radio. Tune into WCUW 91.3FM in the Worcester and surrounding areas. Or stream live on wcuw.org (hit the listen live button in the upper left corner of screen) Join your DJs Summi and Momma Bear for an hour of metal, thrash, screamo, punk & alternative. You’re not alone in your digital world. Were out here live! Call in to let us know your listening @ (508)753-2284 after 11pm. Hope you tune in to hear local and national metal and more! 91.3fm or wcuw.org It’s your community radio! So enjoy it already! Sheesh! 11 p.m.-midnight WCUW Studios, 910 Main St. 508-753-2284 or find them on Facebook.

sleigh rides

dining

THIS MONTH IN STURBRIDGE

antiquing

ice fishing

• Annual Sturbridge Antique Show at the Sturbridge Host Hotel on Dec. 31 and Jan 1 . • Experience Christmas by Candlelight at Old Sturbridge Village all month • The Sturbridge Tourist Association would like to wish you a

Happy Holiday Season. Check out visitsturbridge.org/events for more information and follow us on Twitter @visitsturbridge

sledding visitsturbridge.org 30

WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

• DECEMBER 21, 2017

Joe Grizzly. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Rye & Thyme, 14 Monument Square, Leominster. 978-534-5900. Left - Right. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Barbers Crossing (North), 175 Leominster Road, Sterling. 978-422-8438. Live Music. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Black Sheep Tavern, 261 Leominster Road, Sterling. 978-422-8484. Michael Spaulding. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Tavern on Central, 3 Central St., Ashburnham. 978-827-1272. Michale Graves(Ex Misfits) Damnation, The Negans, Wolfman Chuck. Michale Graves is an American singer-songwriter and musician whose career has spanned two decades. Michale entered the music scene as lead singer of The Misfits and after leaving the band embarked on a successful solo career. This is the wonderfully eerie world of Wolfman Chuck and the Spookalele of Doom! ukulelehorror.bandcamp. com/ $13 Advance/$18 DOS 21+ to enter 8pm Doors showclix.com/ event/michale-graves14615 $13 advance/$18 door. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. The Cove Music Hall, 89 Green St. 508-363-1888 or find them on Facebook. Neon Alley. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. South Side Grille & Margarita Factory, 242 West Broadway, Gardner. 978-632-1057. Ralston & Macey. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. The GazBar Sports Grill, 1045 Central St., Leominster. Terry Brennan. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Quinn’s Irish Pub, 715 West Boylston St. 508-459-2025. Live Music. 8:30 p.m.-1 a.m. Gardner Ale House, 74 Parker St., Gardner. 978-669-0122. Dezi Garcia. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Frank’s, 274 Shrewsbury St. 774-4202253. Doctor Robert. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Michael’s Cigar Bar, 1 Exchange Place. 508-459-9035. Guest and House DJ’S. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. MB Lounge, 40 Grafton St. 508-799-4521 or mblounge.com Hit the Bus. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Whiskey on Water, 97 Water St. Jean Mancini Gough Jazz Vocalist. Jazz Vocalist. Jean Mancini

night day Out of this world selections, { listings} down to earth prices &

Gough is musically at home in many styles. With a strong background in jazz and classical, she moves between the two worlds effortlessly, making her a perfect crossover artist. Renowned for her impeccable technique and smooth stylings, she has entertained audiences up and down the East Coast in a wide range of genres from jazz, gospel, and new age to classical and sacred literature. These experiences bring a unique intuition to her singing and her one-of-a-kind voice as she crosses genres with both technical and stylistic ease. 9 p.m.-midnight Nick’s Bar and Restaurant, Cabaret, 124 Millbury St. 508-753-4030. Karaoke-DJ Fenton with Music and Dancing. Free. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. The Ballot Box, 11-17 Kelly Square. 774-243-1606 or find them on Facebook. Lost Artifacts. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Partner’s Pub, 970 South St., Fitchburg. 978-345-5051. Silverbacks. $5. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Greendale’s Pub, 404 W Boylston St. 508-853-1350. The Boston Naturals Live at JJ’s. 9 p.m.-midnight JJ’s Sports Bar and Grill, 380 Southwest Cutoff, Northborough. 508-842-8420. Yvette & Mikey G. 9 p.m.-midnight Padavano’s Place, 358 Shrewsbury St. 774-823-3022. DJ’s. 10 p.m.-2 a.m. Compass Tavern, 90 Harding St. 508-304-6044. DJ 21+Canal. Live Dj pushing out all the latest hits for you’re listening and dancing pleasure! (Thursday is college night @ the Canal) N/A. 10:30 p.m.-1:45 a.m. Canal Restaurant & Bar, 65 Water St. 508-9268353. DJ Joe T Performs at Loft at 11. 11-11:59 p.m. Loft 266 Bar & Lounge, 266 Park Ave. 508-796-5177.

>Sunday 24

Bluegrass Brunch at Bull Mansion. Every Sunday At The Bull Mansion you can now enjoy a spectacular brunch and some down-home picking and a plucking provided by a rotating roster of bluegrass rock stars. Free W/ Brunch. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bistro, Bull Mansion, 55 Pearl

St. 508-755-6070 or find them on Facebook. Christmas Eve Candlelight Lessons and Carols. The seasonal splendor of the Glory of Christmas . . . begins with the traditional holiday processional: Adeste Fidelis (O Come All Ye Faithful)--first a single soprano begins processing quietly, followed by the glorious pageantry of the festive choral processional joined by the congregation, pipe organ, and timpani. Through a creative blend of congregational Christmas carols, solos, instruments, with the spoken word, the nativity story unfolds with colorful wonder. Both scriptures and contemporary readings recount the Christmas Story. Our renowned Aeolian-Skinner pipe organ pulls out all the stops to fill our wonderfully restored sanctuary with the glorious sounds of Angels, Wisemen, and Shepherds. We end the service with John Rutter’s traditional Candlelight Carol and Silent Night as the single candle of the Spirit of Christmas is passed from one to another to fill our hearts with a renewed light of hope and peace. Free. 5:15-6:30 p.m. First Unitarian Church, 90 Main St. 508-757-2708 or FirstUMusic.com Open Mic Sundays @ Park Grill & Spirits. To check the schedules and open slots visit: Bill McCarthy’s Open Mic World on Facebook. Bill McCarthy (originator of the “Half-Hour Sets!”) is your host at another great Open Mic Night! Email Bill McCarthy to reserve it at: openmcc@verizon.net (make sure you put “open mic” in the email’s “subject box”) To check the schedules and open slots visit Facebook. Bill McCarthy (originator of the “Half-Hour Sets!”) is Your Host at another great Open Mic Night! Any slot marked as “open” usually is! Free! 6-9 p.m. Park Grill and Spirits, 257 Park Ave. Karaoke. DJ Nancy, of Star Sound Entertainment. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Club KasBar, 234 Southwest Cutoff. 508-798-8385. Karaoke. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Partner’s Pub, 970 South St., Fitchburg. 978345-5051.

Christmas by candlelight December 21 - 23

Last Chance!

- Tatuaje - Padrón - General Cigar - Rocky Patel - DrewEstate, Liga Privada, T52 & Unico - A. Fuente Opus X

Featuring cigarette and pipe tobacco and accessories

560 LINCOLN St., WORCESTER 508-852-5700 Mon. - Fri, 9am-6pm • Sat. 8am-4pm • Sun. Closed

National Marionette Theatre at Old Sturbridge Village

December 27 - 30

3:00 – 8:00 pm

Shows 11:00 am | 1:00 pm | 3:00 pm

Musical Performances Sleigh Rides Decorated Historic Village Festive Foods Quilt Challenge Exhibit Gingerbread Contest

The National Marionette Theatre is coming to Old Sturbridge Village for December school vacation week! Performances are 50 minutes in length and each day will feature a different story.

North Pole Village returns and families will find Santa and his whimsical elves, Mrs. Claus’ Bake Shop, a magical talking Christmas tree, a kids holiday craft workshop, and an all-new train display.

Dec. 27 – Pinocchio Dec. 28 – Beauty and the Beast Dec. 29 – Peter and the Wolf Dec. 30 – Hansel and Gretel

For tickets visit www.osvchristmas.org or purchase at the Visitor Center DECEMBER 21, 2017 • WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

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Karaoke - DJ Soup. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Whiskey on Water, 97 Water St. Take Two. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Padavano’s Place, 358 Shrewsbury St. 774823-3022.

>Monday 25

Industry Night With Keith. 5 p.m.-2 a.m. MB Lounge, 40 Grafton St. 508-799-4521. Blue Mondays - Live Blues. 7-11 p.m. Gardner Ale House, 74 Parker St., Gardner. 978-669-0122. Jazz Night - Live at JJ’s. 7-10 p.m. JJ’s Sports Bar and Grill, 380 Southwest Cutoff, Northborough. 508-842-8420 or jjsnorthboro.com Ugly Sweater Christmas Party Starting at 8. 8-11:59 p.m. Loft 266 Bar & Lounge, 266 Park Ave. 508-796-5177. Karaoke. DJ Nancy, of Star Sound Entertainment. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Club KasBar, 234 Southwest Cutoff. 508-798-8385.

>Tuesday 26

Bobby Gadoury. Pianist Bobby Gadoury is that rare combination of naturally gifted, classically educated and trained musician. The combination makes for a stunning performance by a very warm and personable performer. A regular at Nuovo Restaurant in Worcester and Grill 37 in Pomfret, Connecticut, Gadoury’s repertoire includes classical, Sinatra, Billy Joel and all the music you love! Free and Open to the Public. 2-3 p.m. Briarwood Continuing Care Retirement Community: Birches Auditorium, 65 Briarwood Circle. 508-852-9007. Tuesday Open Mic Night @ Greendale’s Pub with Bill McCarthy Local Musicians Showcase! To check the schedules and open slots visit: Bill McCarthy’s Open Mic World on Facebook. Bill McCarthy (originator of the “Half-Hour Sets!”) is your host at another

great Open Mic Night! Email Bill McCarthy to reserve it at: openmcc@ verizon.net (make sure you put “open mic” in the email’s “subject box”) To check the schedules and open slots visit Facebook. Bill McCarthy (originator of the “Half-Hour Sets!”) is Your Host at another great Open Mic Night! Any slot marked as “open” usually is! Free! 7:30-11:30 p.m. Greendale’s Pub, 404 W Boylston St. 508-853-1350 or find them on Facebook. Nick’s Jazz Jam Open Mic in Worcester. Have you ever gone to see a Jazz performance and thought, “Hey, I could to this.” Well now is your chance at Nick’s Jazz Open Mic! Bring your favorite musical instrument and perform in front of other or even with them if you have the chops. Free. 8-11 p.m. Nick’s Bar and Restaurant, Cabaret, 124 Millbury St. 508-753-4030. Boogie Chillin’. Bluesy, bluegrassy, jazzy, americana, dead, and more. Jon Bonner - Guitar & Vocals Dan Villani - Violin/fiddle Fernando Perez - Percussion Joining us sometimes are Zack Slik on mandolin, Chris Houston, Scott Sheehan or Matt McManamon on bass, and other special guests. Free! (Tips are appreciated if you appreciate us.). 9-11:59 p.m. Vincent’s Bar, 49 Suffolk St. 508-752-9439 or find them on Facebook. Karaoke. DJ Nancy, of Star Sound Entertainment. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Club KasBar, 234 Southwest Cutoff. 508-798-8385. Karaoke with DJ Bruce. Free. 9 p.m.-midnight Antonio’s Pizza by the Slice, 268 Chandler St., Worcester, MA. Karaoke Tuesdays at 9:30. 9:30-11:59 p.m. Loft 266 Bar & Lounge, 266 Park Ave. 508-796-5177.

>Wednesday 27

The Motown Jukebox. Join “Motown Tom” Ingrassia--Worcester’s very own Agent Double-O Soul--every Wednesday morning from 9 am to noon for The Motown Jukebox on WCUW 91.3FM for 3 hours of Motown music and the stories behind the hits. “Motown Tom” is a Motown historian and author. His current book--Reflections Of A Love Supreme: Motown Through The Eyes Of Fans was named the Best Music Book of

2016 by the National Indie Excellence Awards. “Motown Tom” has twice been named Best Radio Personality in local media polls. WCUW streams live online at wcuw.org. 9 a.m.-noon WCUW 91.3 FM - Worcester’s Community Radio Station, 910 Main St. 508-753-1012 or wcuw.org Open Mic Wednesdays at CJ’s Steak Loft in Northborough. To check the schedules and open slots visit: Bill McCarthy’s Open Mic World on Facebook. Bill McCarthy (originator of the “Half-Hour Sets!”) is your host at another great Open Mic Night! Email Bill McCarthy to reserve it at: openmcc@verizon.net (make sure you put “open mic” in the email’s “subject box”) To check the schedules and open slots visit Facebook. Bill McCarthy (originator of the “Half-Hour Sets!”) is Your Host at another great Open Mic Night! Any slot marked as “open” usually is! Free! 6-9 p.m. CJs Steakloft, 369 W. Main St. (route 20), Northborough. 508-393-8134 or find them on Facebook. Jazzed Up featuring vocalist/pianist Mauro DePasquale. Worcester’s own Mauro DePasquale has become an institution at Bull Mansion and his duo will get you Jazzed Up! This week’s destination for cool. No Cover. 6:30-8:30 p.m. GAR Hall, Bull Mansion, 55 Pearl St. Duotone Instrumental Guitar Duo! Free. 7-9:30 p.m. Sahara Cafe & Restaurant, 143 Highland St. 508-798-2181. Brett Brumby. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Quinn’s Irish Pub, 715 West Boylston St. 508-459-2025. Music Bingo Wednesdays Starting at 8. 8-11:59 p.m. Loft 266 Bar & Lounge, 266 Park Ave. 508-796-5177. Open Mic. 8 p.m.-2 a.m. The Raven, 258 Pleasant St. 508-304-8133. Wednesday Night Mayhem. The last bastion of democracy: an open, live-writing competition in character, where the audience dances, throws things, and votes for the winner! facebook.com/ wednesdaynightmayhem $5. 8 p.m.-midnight Beatnik’s, 433 Park Ave. 508-926-8877 or find them on Facebook. Winter White - Featuring Snails. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Palladium, The, 261 Main St. 508-797-9696. AriBand Live at Nick’s. Singer-songwriter Ari Charbonneau, also

known as AriBand: “nature’s source of unfiltered rock.” and all the other souls we be trippin with through space time. keep smilin No Cover. 8:30 p.m.-2 a.m. Nick’s Bar and Restaurant, 124 Millbury St. 508-753-4030. Karaoke. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Club KasBar, 234 Southwest Cutoff. 508-7988385. Karaoke. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Partner’s Pub, 970 South St., Fitchburg. 978345-5051. Karaoke - DJ Soup. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Whiskey on Water, 97 Water St. Karaoke with Mikey Mic’s. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. MB Lounge, 40 Grafton St. 508-799-4521. What’s that tune Trivia. 9 p.m.-midnight The Pint, 58 Shrewsbury St.

arts

ArtsWorcester, Hours: closed Sunday - Monday, 1-4 p.m. Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday - Friday, 1-4 p.m. Saturday. Admission: Free. 660 Main St. 508-755-5142 or artsworcester.org Asa Waters Mansion, Admission: $3 for guided tour $7-10 for tea. 123 Elm St., Millbury. 508-865-0855 or asawaters.org Assumption College: Emmanuel d’Alzon Library, 500 Salisbury St. 508-767-7272 or assumption.edu Booklovers’ Gourmet, “Musical Sketches” by Tim Oliver, Through Dec. 30. Hours: closed Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday - Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. 55 East Main St., Webster. 508-949-6232 or bookloversgourmet.com Clark University: University Gallery, Hours: noon-5 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday - Tuesday, noon-8 p.m. Wednesday, noon-5 p.m. Thursday - Saturday. 950 Main St. 508-793-7349 or 508-793-7113 or clarku.edu Clark’s Cafe and Art On Rotation Gallery, Hours: 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday - Saturday. Admission: Free for gallery. 310 High St., Clinton. 978-549-5822 or 978-365-7772 or aorgallery.com College of the Holy Cross: Iris & B. Gerald Cantor Art

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night day &

{ listings}

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 Danforth Museum of Art, Hours: noon-5 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday - Tuesday, noon-5 p.m. Wednesday - Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday - Saturday. 123 Union Ave., Framingham. 508-620-0050 or danforthmuseum.org EcoTarium, Hours: noon-5 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday. Admission: $15.00 adults; $10 for children ages 2-18, college students with ID & senior citizens. Children under 2 & EcoTarium members free. Additional charges apply for Tree Canopy Walkway, Explorer Express Train, planetarium programs & other special event. 222 Harrington Way. 508-929-2700 or ecotarium.org Fisher Museum Harvard Forest, 324 N. Main St., Petersham. 978-724-3302 or harvardforest.fas.harvard.edu Fitchburg Art Museum, Hours: noon-4 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday, noon-4 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday. 25 Merriam Parkway, Fitchburg. 978-345-4207 or fitchburgartmuseum.org Fitchburg Historical Society, Hours: closed Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday - Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, closed Thursday - Saturday. Admission: Free. 781 Main St., Fitchburg. 978-345-1157 or fitchburghistoricalsociety.org Fitchburg State University: Hammond Hall, 160 Pearl St., Fitchburg. fitchburgstate.edu Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Road, Harvard. 978-4563924 or fruitlands.org Gallery of African Art, Hours: closed Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday - Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday. Admission: Donations accepted. 62 High St., Clinton. 978-265-4345 or 978-598-5000x12 or galleryofafricanart.org Highland Artist Group, 113 Highland St. highlandartistgroup.com Mass Audubon: Broad Meadow Brook Conservation Center and Wildlife Sanctuary, Hours: 12:30-4 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday. 414 Massasoit Road. 508-753-6087 or massaudubon.org Museum of Russian Icons, Hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday - Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. Admission: Adults $10; Seniors (59 +), $7; Students, $5; Children 3-17, $5; Children <3, free. 203 Union St., Clinton. 978-5985000 or 978-598-5000 or museumofrussianicons.org Old Sturbridge Village, Cabinet Making in Early 19th Century New England, Sundays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, through Dec. 31; Make No Little Plans, Sundays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, through Dec. 31. Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday - Tuesday, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday - Saturday. Admission: $28 Adults, $26 Seniors (55+), $14 Youths (4-17), free for Children 3 & Under, $14 College Students with valid college ID. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge. 800-733-1830 or 508-347-3362

or osv.org Preservation Worcester, Hours: closed Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday - Friday, closed Saturday. 10 Cedar St. 508-754-8760 or preservationworcester.org Quinebaug Valley Council for the Arts & Humanities, the Arts Center, Hours: 2-4 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday - Friday, 2-4 p.m. Saturday. 111 Main St., Southbridge. 508-346-3341 or qvcah.org Rollstone Studios, Hours: 11-4 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday - Saturday. Admission: free. 633 Main St., Fitchburg. 978-348-2781 or rollstoneartists.com Salisbury Mansion, Hours: closed Sunday - Wednesday, 1-8:30 p.m. Thursday, 1-4 p.m. Friday - Saturday. 40 Highland St. 508-7538278 or worcesterhistory.org SAORI Worcester Freestyle Weaving Studio, 18 Winslow St. 508-757-4646 or 508-757-0116 or saoriworcester.com Sprinkler Factory, Admission: free. 38 Harlow St. sprinklerfactory.com Tatnuck Bookseller & Cafe, Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday - Thursday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday - Saturday. 18 Lyman St., Westborough. 508-366-4959 or tatnuck.com The Foster Gallery, 51 Union St. 508-397-7139 or thefostergallery.com Top Fun Aviation Toy Museum, Hours: 1:30-4:30 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday - Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday. 21 Prichard St., Fitchburg. 978-342-2809 or 978-297-4337 or topfunaviation.com Tower Hill Botanic Garden, Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday. Admission: $12 Adults, $9 Seniors & $7 Youth, free to Members & Children under. 11 French Drive, Boylston. 508-869-6111 or towerhillbg.org T Worcester Art Museum, Coming Away: Winslow Homer and England, Through Feb. 4, 2018; Jeppson Idea Lab: Master Vases from Ancient Greece, Through April 8, 2018; Last Defense: The Genius of Japanese Meiji Metalwork, Through Sept. 2, 2018; Nude Drawing in the Galleries, Thursdays, through Dec. 28; Rediscovering an American Community of Color: The Photographs of William Bullard, Through Feb. 25, 2018. 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. 508-799-4406 or worcesterart.org Worcester Center for Crafts, Exhibition: The Cup Show, Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, through Dec. 25. Hours: closed Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday - Saturday. 25 Sagamore Road. 508-753-8183 or worcestercraftcenter.org Worcester Historical Museum, Hours: closed Sunday - Monday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday. 30 Elm St. 508-753-8278 or worcesterhistory.org

theater/ comedy

Dick’s Beantown Comedy Escape at Park Grill & Spirits Showtimes: Friday 9pm-Saturdays 8pm -$20pp Reservations Recommended at 800-401-2221 Prices: $20 Fri/Sat pp except Special Events Drinks and Appetizers available in the show room Full Dinner Available before Show in Restaurant Give the Gift of Laughter! dickdoherty.com. $5off with College ID and Reservations 2 for 1 Active Military or Veterans and Reservations $4 off with Dinner Receipt and Reservations. Fri & Sat Dec 22nd & 23rd Peter Costello David Lamb and Friends Fri & Sat Dec 29th & 30th Chris Zito Steve Halligan and Friends Special Event!!! SUNDAY Dec 31st 2 Shows! 7:30pm & 10:30pm Double Headliners $35pp Show Only $79.50pp Dinner&Show Includes Champagne Toast (21+) and Favors Corey Rodrigues. Make Reservations Early at 800-401-2221 or online at dickdoherty.com 10th Anniversary Production of A Christmas Carol - Friday, Saturday. “God Bless us, everyone!” Celebrate the holiday season with New England’s largest production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Join us for our 10th annual production, adapted by president and CEO Troy Siebels and featuring the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ, New England’s largest theatre pipe organ. You know the story and you love the message of redemption, but you’ll never see another Christmas Carol like this! The show is refined and revised each year, and the 10th Anniversary production will feature more magic than ever before. The show includes an array of spectacles from different kinds of smoke and fog to spectacular flying stunts. New and returning cast members tell the tale of curmudgeonly miser Ebenezer Scrooge, who is visited by the ghosts of Christmases Past, Present and Future. This brilliant musical, set with timeless music, colorful costumes and spectacular lighting and scenery, follows Scrooge as he discovers the true spirit of the holiday season. Jeremy Lawrence plays Scrooge for the sixth year in a row, having guest starred on TV’s The Blacklist and Shades of Blue, as well as worked with directors Brian De Palma, Rob Howard and Stephen Daldry. Lawrence is also known for his portrayal of playwright Tennessee Williams. Tickets are $28, $45 and $55 depending on seat location. 7-9:30 p.m.; Saturday, December 23, 2-4:30 p.m.. Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts, 2 Southbridge St. Call 877-571-7469 or visit thehanovertheatre.org

fairs/ festivals >Tuesday 26 – January 1

and find out why Tons of staff every day to answer questions and do amazing live presentations general admision $14. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Animal Adventures, 336 Sugar Road, Bolton. 978-779-8988 or animaladventures.com

family >Thursday 21

Art Cart: Classical Europe & Asia. Explore the Classical world through art and object. Discover the art of Egyptian Hieroglyphs. Learn about and create Greco-Roman mosaics. Or color your own Mandala. One or more of these activities will be available. Ask our friendly docent what topic will be on tap today! (Programming subject to change) Free with Museum admission. 2:30-3:30 p.m. Worcester Art Museum, The Renaissance Court, 55 Salisbury St. 508-799-4406.

>Friday 22

One Love Cafe Jamaican food pop-up. This event is at a brewery and is 21+. Authentic Jamaican cuisine $12/plate. Vegan options. Please call 774-272-3969 or email onelovecafe@gmail.com to make a reservation. Follow OneLoveCafeWorcester on Facebook to get more details. Happens every second and fourth Friday! 6-9 p.m. 3cross Brewing Company, 26 Cambridge St. 508-615-8195.

>Wednesday 27

Art Cart: Medieval. The Middle Ages! The name brings to mind images of knights and princesses, of sinners and saints, and heroes and villains. You might discover the armor worn by knights and how it was used. Or create your own heraldry so your friends (and foes) can identify you. Ask our friendly docent what topic will be on tap today! (Programming subject to change) Free with Museum admission. 2:303:30 p.m. Worcester Art Museum, Medieval Gallery, 55 Salisbury St. 508-799-4406.

college sports Men’s Basketball Holy Cross Friday, Dec. 22 @ Siena, Albany, N.Y., 7 p.m.

Women’s Basketball

Animals of the World Winter Festival. No School, No Problem! Join us for this non-stop, action packed week of special shows and events. We will have daily shows at 11, 12, 1, 2, and 3 o’clock all day, everyday. Each show will feature different animals and themes. Stay for one or stay for all, they’re all included in your General Admission adventure. We use #waycoolerthanazoo for a reason Come down

WPI Thursday, Dec. 21 vs. Spalding (Kentucky) @ Daytona Beach, Fla., 1 p.m.

“It’s the Liquor Talking” Radio Show & Podcast!

Broadcasting LIVE from Julio's Liquors

Saturday 11am - 1pm!

Listen on WCRN AM830 or stop by Julio’s and join the fun! No Radio, No problem! 34

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Across 1 6 10 14 15 16 17 19 20 21 22 25 26 28 29 31 33 34 35 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 46 47 49 50 51 52 54 57 58 62 63 64 65 66 67

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5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 18 21 22 23 24 27 30 31 32 36 37 39 40 42 43 45

Making sense 47 Elon Musk's company Get rid of 48 Sleek river swimmer Spiritual advisor of sorts 50 Jason of "Game of Thrones" Makes a lot of dough 53 Smartphone programs Fabric measures (abbr.) 55 Michael who directed "Miami Vice" Leave out 56 Over it Long-standing, like many traditions 58 Reason for a shot Pong creator 59 Expend Sum up 60 Title for Doug Jones of Ala. ___ nous (confidentially) 61 Aliens, for short Be indebted Marinade in some Spanish cuisine Make a comeback Health problem on some Last week's solution summer days Random quantity Café au lait container Regimens that may be faddish Out in the country Say John Irving's "A Prayer for Owen ___" Holy fish? Glowing brightly Coal receptacle Rigid social system "You're a better man than I am, ©2017 Jonesin’ Crosswords (editor@jonesincrosswords.com) Gunga ___!": Kipling Reference puzzle #860

WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM • DECEMBER 21, 2017

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LEGALS/PUBLIC NOTICES

Commonwealth of Massachusetts The Trial Court Probate and Family Court Worcester Probate and Family Court 225 Main St. Worcester, MA 01608 Docket No. WO17P4031GD CITATION GIVING NOTICE OF PETITION FOR APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN FOR INCAPACITATED PERSON PURSUANT TO G.L. c. 190B, §5-304 In the matter of: David L Richard Of: Shrewsbury, MA RESPONDENT Alleged Incapacitated Person To the named Respondent and all other interested persons, a petition has been filed by Dept. of Developmental Services of Worcester, MA in the above captioned matter alleging that David L Richard is in need of a Guardian and requesting that David K Ferguson of Worcester, MA (or some other suitable person) be appointed as Guardian to serve Without Surety on the bond. The petition asks the court to determine that the Respondent is incapacitated, that the appointment of a Guardian is necessary, and that the proposed Guardian is appropriate. The petition is on file with this court and may contain a request for certain specific authority. You have the right to object to this proceeding. If you wish to do so, you or your attorney must file a written appearance at this court on or before 10:00 A.M. on the return date of 01/23/2018. This day is NOT a hearing date, but a deadline date by which you have to file the written appearance if you object to the petition. If you fail to file the written appearance by the return date, action may be taken in this matter without further notice to you. In addition to filing the written appearance you or your attorney must file a written affidavit stating the specific facts and grounds of your objection within 30 days after the return date. IMPORTANT NOTICE The outcome of this proceeding may limit or completely take away the above-named person’s right to make decisions about personal affairs or financial affairs or both. The above-named person has the right to ask for a lawyer. Anyone may make this request on behalf of the above-named person. If the above-named person cannot afford a lawyer, one may be appointed at State expense. WITNESS, Hon. Leilah A Keamy, First Justice of this Court. Date: December 13, 2017 Stephanie K Fattman Register of Probate 12/21/2017 WM

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DECEMBER 21, 2017 • WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

Two minutes with...

David Tuttle

ELIZABETH BROOKS

I paid two recent visits to the Worcester County Jail & House of Corrections: once to tour the facilities and again to sit down with Superintendent David Tuttle. In his tenure, Tuttle has pushed for a variety of valuable innovations intended to lower recidivism rates and expand mental health opportunities for inmates. Tuttle exudes confidence and integrity amidst a deliberately bleak backdrop. I’m curious about your path to becoming superintendent. What has your career looked like thus far? I’ve done everything.

the guys sentenced for long term. We are a jail and a house of corrections here. Some of the folks get sentenced and go to DOC I worked for a member of Congress for for years, but the guys who get sentenced almost three years, Peter Blute, back in the for shorter terms stay with us. ’90s. In ’96 I ran for the Legislature and served as the state rep. I was elected three How many inmates require mental health care at the time of their admission? What does times. And then, in February 2001, I was that care typically entail? The numbers I’m just starting my third term when I was going to give you are averages because appointed by President (George W.) Bush it veers all the time. On average, we see to the U.S. Department of Agriculture 6,000 guys a year who come through our in Rural Development. I oversaw that in doors, and right now we’re seeing that D.C. for Massachusetts, Connecticut and the number of guys who need to detox on Rhode Island. I manned the offices and arrival is 50 percent. Out of that number, oversaw the funding for housing, water of our 1,100 inmates that we have here, projects, sewer projects, police stations, fire stations and a whole host of tasks like an average of 53 percent require ongoing that. From there, I worked for Anna Maria mental health care from our mental College for a number of years. I’ve known health department. This means they’re on the sheriff since he first ran for office. I’ve medication, they see a clinician regularly, or they require treatment. Ninety-percent always helped him out. We worked well of guys here have substance abuse issues. together, and when he got elected sheriff, A majority of those guys are co-occurring, he said, “Look, I need some people with meaning they have mental health and me that have management experience substance abuse issues. who understand how to do things and share my vision.” He asked me to join What are your recidivism rates and how are him, so I did. My first three years on the you working to lower them? The number we job, my title was chief deputy. I worked use over a five-year period shows that, civil process, but then was also involved typically, about 56 percent of the guys in changes at the jail that he was doing. When Shawn Jenkins left us for Middlesex come back. Some of the programs we’ve instituted include Wiser Men, a program County in February 2014, I took over as we did with the Health Foundation of superintendent. Central Mass, among other groups. It was an intensive navigator program Please clarify the difference between that allowed for case management in the terms “jail,” “prison” and “house of the community. We identified a group corrections.” Jail is for pre-trial inmates. of men who were getting out and we Those are folks who haven’t been gave them case managers or navigators adjudicated for whatever they’re being to help them with housing, finding jobs, accused of. Currently, about 60 percent education and training. We’re about one of our population are pre-trial inmates. year out and what we’re seeing is, so far, The House of Corrections serves the folks the recidivism rate has dropped with that are sentenced to us for typically two those guys by providing the services years or less. The average stay right now for sentenced guys is 90-120 days and that when they leave prison. The other thing we do is we have an in-house substance varies all the time. Prison, that’s the state abuse treatment program. It’s a sixDepartment of Correction. Prisoners are

WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM • DECEMBER 21, 2017

month program for sentenced guys, and historically what we see is the number of inmates who come back to prison is lower if they go through that program. We’ve been documenting that for years. Some of the other changes we’ve made include the New Man’s Unit. What we’ve started to do is we do a validated risk needs assessment on new arrivals to the jail. That gives us a sense of how they got here. It looks at the criminology. That’s how we build their program while they’re here. We identify classes they can take to address anger management and substance abuse. Some get their GED, now called HiSET. We use that information to help shape their stay here.

runs. We do OSHA-10 and ServSafe, so inmates can have those certificates when they leave here. We just started working with Mount Wachusett Community College doing vocational/educational training. We do a whole host of skill classes, including victim impact. We rely a lot on volunteers to come out and enhance the things that we do.

What workforce opportunities are available to your inmates? We farm about 13 active

acres. The vegetables that we grow, we donate to Veterans Inc. as well as food pantries and local senior center. Some we use in house. The inmates have started working with the Worcester Police Department’s mounted unit. We have Have you detected a correlation between inmates who don’t work with the horses, the opioid crisis and the growing needs of but they clean the stalls and maintain the your inmates? A lot more of these men building. Our work release guys are the need detox right off the bat. As a spinoff ones who you see out in the community from that, we’ve started working with picking up trash, painting and fixing Vivitrol, which is a non-narcotic shot that things. I just scheduled a meeting because gentlemen can get upon release. It helps I’d like to enhance the farming program them combat the urge to get high. Since based on the work we’re doing with grow we’ve implemented it, just over 200 men lamps. I want to get a greenhouse up have joined. They can’t get high if they’re and running, allowing us to grow more taking it, but it also requires an intensive vegetables so we can have a component treatment outside of here. They need where we can sell to the public. It’s still in counselors set up to go to. It’s a two-fold the development stage. We’re hoping to be process, it’s not just a shot. They have to able to do agriculture year-round. We’re have a follow-up in the community. producing lettuce and cucumbers indoors with just 28 days of growth. They’re all Will you share a few of the innovative organic, all natural. We’re hoping to programs that have unfolded during your expand that program as well. tenure as superintendent? We have about 15 — Sarah Connell programs that our education department

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