Worcester Magazine June 20 - 26, 2019 by Worcester Magazine

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What Cinema-Worcester Has Planned for The City

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in this issue J U N E 20 - 26, 2019 â&#x20AC;˘ V O L U M E 44 I S S U E 43

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What Cinema-Worcester Has Planned for the City Story on page 10 Photo by Matthew Healey Design by Kimberly Vasseur

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Council split on spring leaf collection issue BILL SHANER

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battle over leaf pickup is brewing on the City Council. It may seem like a simple, innocuous function of city government, but it’s seen two 5-6 votes in the past few weeks and it’s headed to subcommittee review, where more rifts may soon become apparent. The point of contention is whether or not the city should pick up curbside leaves alongside the street sweeping program in the spring, and whether workers should pick them up as a courtesy or charge for the service. And it comes as some have complained of bags of uncollected leaves littering neighborhoods. Councilor At-Large Khrystian King at Tuesday’s City Council proposed a repeat vote of one taken during a recent Finance Committee hearing, which resulted in a 5-6 loss. The vote was to request that the City Manager provide the additional leaf service free to residents. King said the first vote was taken amid confusion and asked for a redo, however the result was the same. Five councilors voted with King, six voted against. With King was George Russell, Konnie Lukes, Moe Bergman and Candy Mero-Carlson. Against was Sarai Rivera, Mayor Joe Petty, Matt Wally, Sean Rose, Gary Rosen and Kate Toomey, though later Toomey indicated she “should have changed” her vote. Now, the question of spring leaf Councilor-at-Large Khrystian King proposed a repeat vote requesting the City Manager provide additional leaf pickup and how to go about it will service free to residents. The repeat vote resulted in a 5-6 loss. FILE PHOTO head to a Standing Committee on Public Works meeting scheduled

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for July 30. In a memo to City Council, Director of Public Works Paul Moosey said adding spring leaf collection would carry an additional cost by way of requiring a staff increase. Without increasing staff, “pothole repair, sidewalk repair, sign repair, and other critical services” would suffer, as they rely on the same personnel. “It is one of the primary reasons why such a program is less than optimal for the city without increasing staffing levels,” Moosey said. Still, King and others contended that in years past, the spring leaf collection was provided on a courtesy basis. In King’s motion for a vote, he used the language “go back to” providing the service. But not everyone agrees the service was always provided. City Manager Ed Augustus Jr. at the June 11 Finance Committee meeting said that in the past, DPW employees used discretion during spring street sweeping to

pick up “modest sized piles of leaves in the gutter” as a courtesy. As a result, the manager’s office received calls from people upset that they had bagged their leaves and paid for disposal at a transfer station when others had their leaves taken for free. “In an effort to try to eliminate that, we said, ‘let’s just stick to the parameters of the program and have everyone abide by the rules,’” Augustus said. A full leaf pickup program in the spring is another concern, he said. “I don’t think anyone is against the idea of it but I think we would want to think through it and not have unintended consequences,” he said. In response, Candy Mero-Carlson said the decision to change the policy is “not working out for people.” She said she would like to see the city go back to the previous policy, but conceded that a subcommittee review is warranted.

At the meeting Tuesday, Carlson doubled down on the concern, leading to another exchange with Augusts. She complained that certain neighborhoods in her district are covered in littered leaf bags and leaf piles. The district, she said, is “loaded with them.” As the council moves to a subcommittee review of the policy, she asked whether the leaves are just going to be left there. Augustus said in response that some have complained about the unfairness of the courtesy pickup. “For me that doesn’t make a difference,” Carlson said. “For me it’s what the neighborhood looks like with all these bags.” Augustus suggested reporting leaf dumps to the city for enforcement measures. Bill Shaner can be reached at 508-767-9535 or at wshaner@ gatehousemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @Bill_Shaner.

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worcesteria

UTAX HAVEN: Remember when UMass Memorial Medical Center closed the Plumley Village Health Center? You know, the one which effectively provided culturally competent medical care to some of the most disadvantaged among us? At the time, interim President Jeff Smith made the case that the hospital could not keep the clinic because of rising staff costs across the system. “We are forced to continue to look for opportunities for efficiency,” he said. Oh, and remember when UMass Memorial Medical Center shuttered 13 psychiatric ward beds? Well, according to MetroWest Daily News, the center may have a bit more money than it leads on. In 2017 alone, the hospital invested $171 million in the Caymen Islands – the third highest total among hospitals around the state, which the Massachusetts Nurses Association totals at $1.6 billion. A UMass official told the Daily News that the offshore account pays for medical malpractice coverage and general liability insurance and that putting money oversees where it is not taxable allows the hospital to “fund more patient services.” Oh yeah? Doesn’t really seem like it on the ground. Maybe the next time UMass has to go on the hunt for “opportunities for efficiency,” they should start in the Caymen Islands, not Plumley Village. Our local state Senator Mike Moore has a bill on that would require hospitals to more publicly report offshore account funds and assess fines for high operating margins. The fines go back into a medicaid fund, much like the taxes the hospital would have paid if they kept the money in the U.S. This is just abhorrent. I mean, when your local hospital is engaged in Panama Papers-style business practices, you know something is seriously amiss.

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HEY WE HAVE A BUDGET: In like a lamb, out like a lamb, the City Council quietly approved the City Manager’s $685.7 million budget this week after a few weeks of mundane hearings broken up by little bits of political drama which ultimately went nowhere. Discover Central Mass is getting its city money despite concerns from some councilors about the organization’s relationship with the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce. All salaries are getting approved despite some concerns about double-stacked step and merit-based increases for some employees. A quick admonishment from Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson about city workers who still do not earn 15 dollars an hour and that was that. See ya next year, FinCom. A REMINDER: The WooSox Stadium aka Polar Park aka The Number One Best Thing About Worcester Don’t You Dare Say Otherwise aka The Only Reason Anyone Has Or Will Invest In Our City does not yet have a final design. What we’ve seen in stock photos, article header images and early renderings are just sort of placeholders. In a mostly unrelated conversation at City Council Tuesday, City Manager Ed Augustus Jr. dropped a hint as to when we can expect to see real designs. Ok, it wasn’t much of a hint. He said they’re coming in around August or September. Something to keep an eye on. MOSQUITO SPRAYING: Yes, Worcester is doing that again, and yes, the likelihood of West Nile Virus stories and press releases this summer is just as likely as the last. At City Council Tuesday, Councilor Matt Wally asked the city to put out more information than it did last year on the spraying. Frankly, it is a pretty worrisome sight and people should know to avoid their front lawn for a while and close up their windows. Wally spoke of “consternation in the community” the last time they did spraying, but short of getting back up to a healthy number of bats, I think spraying may be the best option. HAPPY SUMMER: Happy last day of school (Tuesday) to all the teachers and students of the Worcester Public Schools. May your summer be filled with good, clean, safe – oh god, I sound like my Bill Shaner, reporter dad. Party hard and Twitter: @Bill_Shaner cause chaos.

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the beat

Construction on a small black box theater in downtown Worcester is almost underway. The Worcester Business Development Corp. announced this week it raised additional funding for the project, which is slated for a space at 20 Franklin St. which also includes the Worcester PopUp and space held by Quinsigamond Community College. The 295 person capacity theater is slated for a 2020 opening.

Allegro MicroSystems was fined $9,505 by the state for emptying containers of acid down a drain into the municipal sewer system in

Worcester. The state Department of Environmental Protection said the microchip manufacturing plant located at Northeast Cutoff had failed an inspection in December.

UMass Memorial Community Healthlink reported a data breach this week of two employee email accounts. The breach took place

on April 18, the company said. The company notified all patients whose data may have been accessed. Data storied by UMass includes names, dates of birth, diagnostic information, social security numbers and health insurance information.

Two neighborhoods in Worcester saw extensive streetlight outages last week. Seven blocks around the intersection of Chamberlain

Parkway and Pleasant Street were blacked out by a damaged transformer. Construction work caused another outage at Institute Road and Haviland Street. The outages are expected to last up to a week.

Trinidy Degon, the second of two Worcester girls to go missing last week, returned home safely earlier this week. Facebook posts

from relatives of both Degon and Kalifa Foreman went viral around the Worcester area over the past few weeks.

Worcester launched its Diverse Business Directory in order to promote local businesses owned by people from diverse backgrounds.

Worcester is among the top choices for migrating Bostonians. It

shouldn’t come as a surprise that people are leaving Boston as rents go up. A report released last week by Apartment List found that Worcester is the second most popular choice for migrating Bostonians, second only to New York City. This poses questions about Worcester’s infrastructure, gentrification and housing prices.

Shrewsbury Street Merchant’s Association, the event allowed Worcester residents to roam the famous Shrewsbury Street dining scene and sample the many foods offered on the restaurant row.

Michael Welch will take over the CEO role on July 15. Welch replaces Sam Pepper Jr., who served as president and CEO for two years. Chistopher Foley, the interim president, was named president as well.

CHRISTINE PETERSON/T&G STAFF

The former headmaster of St. John’s High School has been named the new CEO of UniBank.

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The Taste of Shrewsbury took place this past Tuesday. Hosted by the

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The Directory is run by both the Business and Community Development Division and Human Rights Division, and is asking the community to contribute to expand on the current list of 16 diverse local businesses. To include your business, visit bit.ly/diversebusinessdirectory.

opinion editorial

Work together to make gas leaks an issue

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olar panels and streetlights are all well and good. That the city has made strides to increase its stock of solar energy and change out municipal street lights for more efficient LED bulbs is a great thing, and deserves the praise. But green energy investment by itself does not make for comprehensive, progressive environmental policy. Environmental issues are woven into the fabric of city life in much more intricate, at times insidious, ways than electric bills, and the little-discussed problem of leaking natural gas pipes is one of the best examples. Though it may be obvious or at least intuitive, unignited methane gas leaking into the atmosphere is not good – it’s not good for the ecosystem, the ozone layer and, studies increasingly show, the health of people around them. A building body of research connects leaking methane gas to asthma. A 2016 study in the heart of Pennsylvania’s fracking region (where Worcester gets at least some of its gas) showed a linkage between asthma severity and proximity to natural gas mining. In general, leaking pipes contribute to smog, which in turn

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contributes to poor air quality, which in urban neighborhoods drives asthma rates. Worcester, it turns out, has one of the highest asthma rates in the country, and more than 800 documented gas leaks. That’s why I was encouraged to see the local environmental activist group Mothers Out Front take to the Standing Committee on Public Health and Human Services earlier this week to demand that Eversource, the city’s natural gas supplier, fix all leaks in and around city schools. In the past, they’ve also petitioned the School Committee, the school administration and brought in a gas leak expert to tour the grounds of city buildings with a specialized car to detect leaks. From the standpoint of public health and in service of ensuring Worcester is as green a city as can be, the issue of natural gas leaks should be taken seriously, and pressuring the utility to make repairs around city schools is a good first start. The relationship between city governments and utilities can be a fraught one. Mostly, a city can do little more than apply pressure to the company. But we saw how effective that pressure can be when earlier this

year, City Manager Ed Augustus Jr. convinced National Grid to fast-track electrical work which otherwise would have held up the Main Street redesign project for years. It would be nice to see the manager and the city council work that kind of magic with Eversource. But first, it must be dem-

onstrated there is a coalition which cares about this issue and wants to see action. So, in that spirit, I’m calling on Mothers Out Front and City Councilor Konnie Lukes, who herself has long made gas leaks a priority, to set aside the who-gets-whatcredit morass of petty city politics and work to bring together

the loudest possible coalition on the issue. On most issues, Lukes and this group of activists are likely diametrically opposed, but on gas leaks, there is common ground. That must be used towards an end. The health of the city, and the city’s children, demands it.

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opinion Drinking from a half-full glass JANICE HARVEY

’m not known for having a half-full glass. Most people think I’m a cynic because I’m sarcastic, but sarcasm and cynicism are not the same. Regarding that half-full glass? That’s not accurate, either. My glass is not half-empty; I’m just not sure who drank from it before me. I happen to be — hold onto your hats — excited about Worcester’s rebirth. I know that excitement is looked upon by most New Englanders, and Worcester folk particularly, as distasteful and possibly communist-affiliated. ( SARCASM! ) I’m half-Polish and half-Irish, so the Irish side of me wants to write a poem about Worcester and read it over a Guinness while my Polish side thinks cautious optimism is

the same as excitement. I suffer from such inner turmoil. I was around when stores on Main Street closed at 5:00 p.m., and Wednesday nights were the exception, staying open till 9:00 p.m. Every business was locked up tight on Sunday. That’s just the way it was. The only place hopping on Sunday was Water Street because a Sunday without bulkies was a Saturday. I’m old enough to remember life before, during and after the Worcester Center Galleria. I sold cheese at Hickory Farms — America’s Leading Cheese Store! — while dressed in gingham, for Chrissakes. I dressed mannequins for Lerner Shops for seven years, a dead-end career path if ever there was one. I married and divorced one of the mall managers. That mall was the greatest thing since

sliced cheese, and I should know, having sliced plenty of it. Thanks to the Galleria, I was also around to watch downtown dry up like some of that cheese I forgot to wrap up at closing. I never dreamed it would take 40 years for Worcester to correct its biggest mistake. Last weekend I spent time in Boston. I haven’t done that in quite a while, and during past visits, I’ve been burdened by what I called the Worcester Inferiority Complex — the feeling that we’d never match up to the shining star on the Charles (Boston even had its own cool river — we had the murky, mucky Blackstone). Boston was the head cheerleader all the girls wanted to be and all the boys just wanted, period. Our only claim to fame was that we might not be Boston, but at least

we weren’t Springfield. To me, it seemed that Worcester would always trip over its own feet, trying to escape itself. Thankfully, that seems to be changing. As a cautious optimist, I’m beginning to think Worcester is finally realizing it doesn’t have to be Boston. It can be Worcester, and that can be a good thing. With the sale of the MidTown Mall, Front Street has the chance to clean up its act and catch up with Franklin Street when it comes to rebirth. This excites me. I have fond memories of those streets as vibrant places of business, and I’m loving the idea that they are slowly becoming destinations once again. It will be great to go downtown for something other than obtaining a birth certificate or disputing a tax bill. If the sidewalks are ever finished, I might even be able

to stroll the area – something I haven’t done since I wore a mood ring and Captain & Tennille were assaulting my ears. I’m suggesting a new slogan for the city that Jordan Levy once, without any sense of irony, labeled the “Paris of the ’80s.” I’m going to give Tim Murray a call over at the Chamber of Commerce. I think my idea captures the formidable Worcester attitude nicely: “So we aren’t Boston. So what?”

Janice Harvey contributing writer

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What Cinema-Worcester Has Planned for The City OWEN MACLEOD

in the city and expected to work,” Grigorov told me over coffee at the Bean Counter on Highland Street. “It should be responsive to the diverse or over a year, a group called Cinemapopulation’s interests, and offer a great variety Worcester has been screening indepenof programming that appeals to people beyond dent films at different venues around ‘typical’ art house audiences.” the city. A sort of travelling roadshow of On June 7, Cinema-Worcester showed “Her movies, they’re poised to bring their roadshow Smell,” a new film starring Elizabeth Moss, in the to a more permanent house. Andy Grigorov, Park View Room. The first thing I noticed, stepthe Founder of Cinema-Worcester, has built a loyal following by screening films you won’t see ping inside the beautiful venue right across from Elm Park, was the old, familiar smell of fresh anywhere else, and by adapting to the unique popcorn. Cinema-Worcester has most of the demands of Worcester’s growing population. commodities any moviegoer can expect, with a “An independent cinema concept can’t be transferred from somewhere else, plopped down personal touch you won’t find at a big theater.

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feature Andy Grigorov, founder of CinemaWorcester, during a recent interview at The Bean Counter Bakery. MATTHEW HEALEY

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“We hope we can provide some counter programming to what’s in the multiplex,” Grigorov said. He’s talking about the films — Grigorov screens challenging Independent and International films that stimulate Worcester’s growing culturally curious population — but Grigorov is a bit of “counter programming” himself. Originally from Ithaca, NY, Grigorov moved to Worcester in the ’80s, when he started as an undergrad at Clark University. He finished his undergraduate studies and stayed at Clark to complete a Master of Public Affairs degree, and he’s now working with the state Executive Office of Elder Affairs. He’s had a lot of experience working with non-profits, “and that’s what I’d like to do with Cinema-Worcester,” he said. “I’ve been learning everything I can about film exhibition over the past few years, having been a film fan since my college years.” The dream of owning an independent cinema was really planted about two and a half years ago, when Grigorov toured the historic Olympia Theater on

Cinema-Worcester patrons Marilyn Tesell, left, and Patricia Hobbs take in a showing of the film “Her Smell”, at the Park View Room. MATTHEW HEALEY

Pleasant Street, and even had it appraised for repairs to bring it up to code. “It was rather astronomical,” he said with a sheepish smile. “But that got me started and wanting to show films.” Andy thinks a local indepen-

dent theater would be welcome in Worcester. With the bursting artistic scene, Grigorov noticed “limited options for independent and foreign film currently.” He’s got a thorough knowledge of theaters in the surrounding area, and the history of indepen-

dent art houses within Worcester to draw inspiration from. “There’s precedent for a theater doing well already,” he said. He told me about the Luna, a well-attended theater in Lowell with a robust program of upcoming events. “Jim Lichoulas (who helped design and develop the Luna) helped inspire me to get going.” Steve Sandberg, Director of Cinema 320 at Clark University, is another local film legend that influenced Grigorov to start showing films himself. With the recent closing of Cinema 320 “there certainly is a gap now,” Grigorov said. “If things change, I think more than one location showing independent films in Worcester could be a great thing actually, as long as they’re not showing the same film. “And the Bijou,” Grigorov said. “They had a great model because they used tables and chairs and couches as the seating. And there was a large lobby with more seating to sit and discuss the film afterward.” The Bijou Cinema was a small

theater in the Worcester Common Outlets that shut down in the early 2000s. It had three screens, a regular lineup of independent films, and, most importantly, a large lobby where moviegoers could order a coffee and chat after the film. Andy responded particularly to the communal atmosphere at the Bijou, and he’s using it as a model for Cinema-Worcester’s goals. The special screenings presented at Acoustic Java’s roasting facility on Brussels Street, a stone’s throw from Holy Cross, are the type of engagement that Grigorov knows turn an art house theater into “a cultural anchor in a community.” Jared Wagner is one of the volunteers helping Grigorov establish Cinema-Worcester as a community forum as much as a local cinema. Acoustic Java hosts special screenings in which Wagner introduces the film, then leads a discussion afterward. The partnership between Cinema-Worcester and Acoustic Java, and the one between Grigoriv and Wagner, came about organically.

feature “After attending one of Andy’s documentary screenings last summer, I was very excited about the awesome work that he was doing,” Wagner told me. “It was David Fullerton (owner of Acoustic Java) who introduced me to Andy, who had previously done a couple screenings over at the A.J. Roastery. Once David heard that I had studied Film in graduate school, he made the obvious connection and we arranged a meeting. And last fall we ended up deciding to work together to put on a series of screenings dedicated to the work of the Swedish filmmaker, Ingmar Bergman.” As for the response to the screening, Wagner is pleasantly surprised. “When we first decided to work on the screenings, I was intrigued to see how many people would turn up to watch older, arthouse films,” Jared said. “But in the face of my worries, there seems to be quite a bit of people consistently interested, as well as a core group of regulars, which is quite encouraging to see.

Cinema-Worcester volunteers Seth Rosenthal, left, and Em Keevan both of Worcester prepare the popcorn before a showing of the film “Her Smell.” MATTHEW HEALEY

“Moreover, the wonderful thing about these screenings is the discussions we have afterwards,” he said. “And the more screenings we have, the more it seems like people are getting more comfortable with discussing the films in relation to anything from sociopolitical issues (such as class, gender and race), to philosophical ideas, as well as aesthetic/formal elements within the films, all of which have helped cultivate such a communal space.” Another way Cinema-Worcester consistently engages the community is through programming series of films, like the Ingmar Bergman series Wagner worked to set up with Grigorov. They’re in the middle of a French New Wave

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series because Grigorov has seen “the community responds well to foreign films.” “When we showed ‘Jules and Jim’ (a black-and-white French film released in 1962) we had one of our better turnouts,” Grigorov said. “Jules and Jim” was screened on April 5th of this year at Acoustic Java, one of the screenings that featured an introduction and discussion led by Jared Wagner. “Though I am relatively new to Worcester,” Wagner said, “there seems to be such a vitality and thirst for new types of experiences outside of mainstream contexts. I see this in the many scenes developing throughout Worcester.” Food, coffee, beer, art; Wagner and Grigorov see artists as a collective that should share and exhibit their talents together. “Worcester pride (as it appears

“I’ve seen a lot of encouragement for the foreign films. When we showed Shoplifters (an Independent Japanese film released in 2018) we had 80 people in attendance.” When asked if he has a sense of what films draw people in, he said “You can’t, really. It’s trial and error, but you take notice of something like that and follow those trends. We look to the community to drive our programming.” The night of June 7th, Grigorov sat behind a folding table with a roll of red raffle tickets and a schedule of upcoming events. Tickets are sold both online and at the venue, with a discount to seniors and students. Grigorov is soft-spoken and personable; he knows the name of most of the patrons that approach to buy tickets. He ripped a ticket purchased by

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Cinema-Worcester patrons at the screening of “Her Smell.” MATTHEW HEALEY

to me) seems to be focused on highlighting and supporting small business, craft development, and independent services as opposed to larger, more mainstream corporations,” Wagner said. “Considering the fact that the films that Andy I work together on screening tend to be fairly niche and rare for larger, mainstream cinemas, the independent cinema scene seems to match up quite well.” Wagner also writes a blog called “Truth at 24 Frames” that’s published on Cinema-Worcester’s webpage. It’s all designed to engage the community and encourage discussion and collaboration. “The community should drive our programming,” Andy said.

a woman named Pam. She hadn’t heard of “Her Smell,” the film we were about to see, but she’s here every week. “How is it?” she asked Grigorov about the film. “It’s a hard R, for sure,” he said with a nervous chuckle, referring to the film’s rating. Pam raised her eyebrows in that wide-eyed way and shuffled inside the screening room to find a seat. “Thanks for coming out,” Grigorov said to the next couple purchasing tickets. “It’s getting to be a regular thing,” the man told him. A young man named Brad buys a ticket, then tells Grigorov about a local venue they can possibly

feature screen a film. Grigorov’s always on the lookout for possible venues until he can secure a permanent space. “Any vacant building, large warehouses,” he told me with a wry smile. Said tongue-in-cheek, but not necessarily joking.

we can get something like a Director to introduce a film,” Grigorov said. “We’ve had a couple of those, and I’d always love to do more of them. I’d also like to do a series that showcases local filmmakers and academic tie-ins.” Dee Anderson, a lifelong

Cinema-Worcester patrons Phyllis Spatrick, left, and Chester Clarke both of Worcester enjoy some popcorn before a showing of the film “Her Smell.” MATTHEW HEALEY

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Worcester resident, was at the June 7th screening of “Her Smell.” She raved about Cinema-Worcester and its importance to the city. “It’s so great what [Grigorov’s] doing,” Dee said. “We were regulars at [Clark U’s Cinema] 320, and now we’re here every week.” Dee’s husband Don agreed. “Worcester really needs this,” Don said. “We go to [Boston’s Independent theater] Coolidge Corner, the 320, into New York even [to see movies]. We haven’t been to an Acoustic Java screening yet, but we’ll be at the next one.” “What’s really great is [Grigorov] keeps going week after week,” Dee said. “When we were here last week for the Emily Dickinson movie [“Wild Nights with Emily”] there wasn’t a seat in the house.” As the screening room filled half way, I tried to gauge how the attendance stacked against past screenings. Grigorov wasn’t sure what to expect with an obscure film like “Her Smell,” and it seems 20 patrons is about half the crowd he usually sees. “Since January 1st we’ve had an average attendance of 41 per screening,” Grigorov told me. “So this is kind of light.” I made my way into the screen-

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Grigorov’s dedication is clear. For a while he was the only one at Cinema-Worcester, a true selfstarter who simply loved showing movies to interested viewers. But his following has steadily grown, and he’s got big plans for the future. “The dream is to have a local independent cinema with a couple screens that we can show a few films a day,” Grigorov said. “Good food and craft beer available, a place to sit and talk afterwards.” Grigorov is on his way to making that dream a reality. Venues around the city have been supportive of Cinema-Worcester’s efforts. They’ve had events at The Sprinkler Factory, The Worcester Pop Up, and have a special screening scheduled for July 22 at the Greater Good Brewery. CinemaWorcester will be showing the film “Tampopo”, and Wooden Noodles will be in-house serving up delicious ramen alongside them. Building and providing support to the artistic community around the city has been an important part of Cinema-Worcester’s mission, and Grigorov’s excited to collaborate with other local artists in the city. “It’s always really exciting when

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ing room and watched a couple of the previews. Audience members were shaking hands and smiling, catching up with each other on the week previous. With the last ticket holders seated, Grigorov stepped to the screen and thanked us for coming. “You’re in for a wild ride with this one,” he said, again with that wry smile. “Hope you enjoy.” He dimmed the lights and stepped back into the lobby. The projector lit up and blasted the image onto a white screen pulled from the ceiling. The modesty of the operation belies the quality of the experience. The intimacy, the familiarity of the crowd; it was like inviting a group of friends over and watching a movie together. The group was respectful and attentive, eager to see the latest Cinema-Worcester selection. Even if it’s not their cup of tea. “Not everyone could handle it,” Grigorov told me after the screening. The film tells the story of a punk rock band that falls from stardom, in part, due to some voodoo witchcraft that goes awry. Maybe not the typical neighborhood film group fare, but Grigorov

MATTHEW HEALEY

prides himself on challenging his audience and leading them down the rabbit hole of independent film. “There’s a world of interesting films out there,” he said. “And

mix in work from local, regional film makers, film festivals, and other events and there is a lot of content.” So where is Grigorov looking to take Cinema-Worcester?

“I’d like some help with the numbers side of things,” Grigorov smiled, and I tried to reassure him that I’m no math whiz either. He’d like Cinema-Worcester to “start with a small, nimble group

to focus on incorporating as a non-profit, building awareness for the group, and establishing partnerships with local businesses.” “Then we can assemble a full board of directors and talk about fundraising and really moving forward,” he told me. Cinema-Worcester continues to grow thanks in no small part to Grigorov’s willingness to take chances. He wants to challenge Worcester’s growing population to reconsider what art can be, and where it can be shared. “I’d like our cinema to be a place we can have speakers lead discussions, a live music venue, a collective space for the community at large,” Grigorov said. Cinema-Worcester provide the city an opportunity to see films they may not see anywhere else. But they also provide the city a safe place to discuss movies, and anything else friends may talk about. “We want to bring more people to the cinema by offering more than a film,” Grigorov said. “You can’t feel that sense of community watching Netflix.”

PHOTO/MEAGHAN HARDY-LAVOIE

culture

J U N E 20 - 26, 2019 WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

Y A D C I S U M MAKE RIDAY F S N R RETU

culture

Make Music Day to coat city in sound Friday STEPHANIE JARVIS CAMPBELL

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rom Elm Park to University Park and places in between, the city will celebrate the power of music this Friday as Make Music Worcester returns, with free performances and events throughout the day. For the third year in a row, the city will participate in Make Music Day, a free celebration that began as Fête de la Musique in 1982 in France and has since expanded to more than 1,000 cities in 120 countries. It is held annually on June 21, the summer solstice, and encourages musicians and singers — professional or otherwise — to fill the spaces of their cities with music all day long. Locally, Make Music Worcester began as a project of the Worcester Arts Council, with funding through the Massachusetts Cultural Council. Although the scope has changed somewhat since its inception — originally the performances were more spread out through the city and now it focuses on fewer, targeted locations — the intent has remained the same: “to encourage the most diverse selection of performers we can get,” said Meaghan Hardy-Lavoie, one of the organizers and a member of the Worcester Arts Council. The festival’s main focus is to provide an outlet for musicians who haven’t had many opportunities to perform, as well as seasoned artists to connect with new listeners. “I think we provide a unique model,” said Samantha Fiakofi, also an event organizer and Arts Council member, adding that for performers, it feels like they’re part of a large concert. “This is a big event, but the barrier to entry is low. If you want to come share your craft, come.” Not a single performer — professional or not — is paid to appear, which is one of the reasons the event is so special, organizers and artists said. “I’ve played anywhere from 1,000 people to one person,” said Torbin Harding, an accomplished singer/ songwriter and record label owner who will play at Joe’s Albums from noon to 12:45 p.m. But on Make

Music Day, “I don’t mind once a year playing for free. This is really a special, special thing. Music is worthy. I believe Make Music Day does show that the world does value music.”

a youth stage at University Park, which will have performers from ages 9 through 17 beginning at noon. Although youth have performed at Make Music Worcester in the past, PHOTOS/MEAGHAN HARDY-LAVOIE

He added, “I believe in the power of music to entertain, heal and give hope. That is why I choose to volunteer and perform on Make Music Day. It is my opportunity to show people I care about music and am willing to share.” Make Music Worcester will host events and performances at the Worcester Common, Elm Park and University Park starting at 11 a.m. For the first time, Main IDEA — a nonprofit dedicated to providing accessible arts programs to underresourced communities — is hosting

they were mixed in with other artists. “We felt this would suit our mission well – to have youth empowered to have their own stage and make music,” said Joy Murrieta, executive director of Main IDEA. Because the festival is open to anyone, performances will be held at other locations throughout the city as well. “We’ve encouraged our local businesses and community organizations to host their own performances. The Arts Council helps facilitate it,” said Kelly Momberger, an event organizer.

This year, in additional to the council-sponsored performances, events will be held at the Sprinkler Factory Community Arts Gallery, Worcester Art Museum, WooBerry, Joe’s Albums, Worcester PopUp, Studio 50 at WICN, WCUW 91.3 FM, Nick’s, Coes Pond Park, Acoustic Java and Acoustic Java Roastery, the Worcester Family Partnership Greendale School and even Music & Arts in Westboro. Some have hosted performances before, and others, like Joe’s Albums, are new to the lineup this year. “It’s a perfect fit. Music is what we’re doing here every day,” owner Joe Demers said as to why he wanted to participate in the event. “Having people come in and perform is great. I’m definitely looking forward to it.” Demers said the event helps to create awareness for the city’s music scene. “It isn’t quite as vibrant as it once was. It’s a different world now,” he said. “It’s important for people to recognize there are people still out there performing all the time.” Murrieta, executive director of Main IDEA, agreed saying, “I think there are a lot of underground musicians in Worcester and Worcester County. It can be competitive to find gigs.” But, she said, Make Music Worcester, provides everyone — such as those who may find it harder to book gigs or even those who like to sing just for fun — with an opportunity to perform. “Music is something to be celebrated. Worcester is going through this renaissance of arts,” Murrieta said. Performers around the city will be varied in age and style – from music for kids and family-friendly, to folk, Indie, jazz, blues, soul, R&B, Americana, pop and even some barbershop. Olivia Frances, a professional singer and recent Clark University graduate who is participating for the second time, said she enjoys the event and meeting new people. For newer artists, it can give them more exposure, and even for professional singers, it can bring new opportunities. For her, that means getting a chance to play from 5-7 p.m. at

Nick’s, where she’ll perform songs from her previously released albums, as well as her latest, “Orchid.” “I’m really excited about it because I’ve never performed there. It’s one of the staples in Worcester,” said Frances, who also will be performing at Studio 50 at WICN Radio at 11 a.m. In addition, various workshops will be held throughout the city for attendees to learn and explore. “It’s Make Music Day, not just ‘listen to music day,’” Momberger emphasized. Elm Park will be set up with ukulele, harmonica, guitar and percussion lessons and information, and kids will be able to take home drumsticks, harmonicas and music books for free. Also, the public is invited to join in a drum circle, led by Dave Curry of Drums for One and All, from 2-3 p.m. on the Worcester Common; drums will be provided, or participants can bring their own. Even those who cannot perform are getting involved in other ways – Dale LePage, multi awardwinning New England entertainer, will release a song on June 21 on the event’s social media platforms about Worcester made especially for Make Music Day. Although this is the last year the event will be funded through the Cultural Council grant, the event has fortunately secured a fiscal partnership with Music Worcester, a current sponsor. Other sponsors this year, in addition to the Worcester Arts Council and the Massachusetts Cultural Council, are WICN and Pulse magazine. “It’s nice to see so many people in the Worcester community work together. It’s so exciting to watch them pull it out so gracefully every year,” Frances said. This year, the committee will host a contest to not only promote Make Music Day but also to encourage busking. Councilor Gary Rosen will be sharing sidewalks in Worcester with buskers on June 21, and attendees who take a selfie with Rosen and the busker, post it to social media and tag Make Music Worcester will be entered to win an event t-shirt. For more information about the event and lineup, visit the event website at makemusicday.org/worcester/.

culture Chuck & Mud to Celebrate 40 Years of Making Music PHOTO SUBMITTED

group is rounded out by Dan Nowlan on mandolin, and Ken Taylor on upright bass. Mud explains how the genesis of the MudChuckers was organic, born out of kitchen-table jam sessions at Crockett’s house with a rotating cast of local talent. “Walter invited Danny and Kenny to play in the kitchen, and we had a cool sound and really liked each other’s songs,” she says. “It was different from the Hole in the Dam band because we’d all take turns singing.” Over the years, Chuck and Mud have not only managed to balance their responsibilities to multiple bands, but also as a married couple. “A great part for both of us is that most musicians have a spouse at home,” Chuck says. “But when we go

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ohn Lennon and Paul McCartney spent ten years with the Beatles before parting ways. Sonny and Cher were active for thirteen. Johnny Cash and June Carter have them all beat, joined in music and marriage for thirty five years. And Worcester’s Chuck and Mud? Going on forty. On Thursday, June 27, Chuck and Mud will be celebrating these forty years of making music as part of Elm Park’s outdoor summer concert series. Taking the stage at 6:30 p.m., the duo will be accompanied by their long-time collaborators the Hole in the Dam band, which features

Walter Crockett on lead guitar, Sten Gustavson on keyboard, Peter Allard on bass and Matthew Cassell on drums. “The Hole in the Dam band was our group that we started when we first played out,” explains Mud, known more formerly around Worcester as Marie Ann RocheleauDemers. “When we first started, we were doing a lot of duo work, but then we met Sten and started playing as a trio, and then the band grew from that.” The show will feature more than the classic Chuck and Mud ensemble, as they will also be appearing for a second set with a newer iteration with more bluegrass tendencies: the MudChuckers. Also showcasing Crockett on guitar, the

“original songs, some obscure gems, and some recognizable covers done in our style.” Looking back over their time together, Mud often returns to the simple pleasure of those kitchentable sessions at Crockett’s house. “It’s been one of the highlights of our lives playing music like that, with the various friends that would come over, and we’ve been doing that for a long, long time,” she says. As they look to the future, Chuck and Mud are still firmly grounded in the city and scene in which they have spent so many years. “I hope we keep playing music, I hope we keep writing songs, and I hope we keep doing what we love,” says Mud. Chuck feels similarly. “One gig at a time. Just keep on keeping on with what we’re doing,” he says.

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BEN GITKIND

out to play, it’s like we’re going out together. Kind of like a date.” During their forty years in the Worcester area, Chuck and Mud have received the key to the City, traveled to Russia with the Worcester/Pushkin Sister City Project, and did a family concert at Institute Park for twenty-two years straight. They have also recorded 3 CDs and a DVD at Mechanics Hall, and played hundreds of weddings, pubs and restaurants. But even after forty years and many shows, some things stay the same. “When we first got together we had lists of songs that we both knew,” Chuck explains. “One that we’re still playing is Bob Dylan’s 'Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right.'” In terms of other material, Chuck says that fans can expect the fortieth anniversary show to include

culture Lifestyle SARAH CONNELL

Worcester has a New Coffee Tradition

New Tradition Company opened its coffee shop last week at 5 Harris Cen-

ter in Main South featuring parking, wifi, and oat milk – a dairy-free milk substitute that I literally can’t find anywhere else. The cafe is adjacent to the CoOp Moto Shop as well as Heartland Barber, a full service barbershop specializing in classic cuts, skin fades, and hottowel shaves. Upstairs at 7 Jackson St., you’ll find Eastern Boarder as well as a new event venue where my fiancé and I are delighted to host our wedding reception in a few weeks. We first visited the space for POW! WOW! Worcester’s 2016 installment of Secret Walls. Since then, New Tradition Company has grown into a hub of activity and innovation overseen by local entrepreneur/international rockstar Joe Weiss.

Night Lights

POW! WOW! Worcester will be back from August 16-23 this year, but Spanish artist Spidertag is brightening up downtown’s deepest, darkest alleyway before that. Spidertag is in town this week to create an interactive neon mural in the Allen Court Alley adjacent to the Worcester PopUp on Franklin Street. Stop by the PopUp on Friday, June 21st to celebrate Make Music Worcester from 7-9 p.m. Sundown is at 8:27 p.m. so you’ll catch the first look of Spidertag’s iridescent masterpiece on your way out.

Patio Count on the Rise

I’ll take my crepe with a side of Vitamin D. Livia’s Dish is now serving breakfast and lunch outside on the patio seven days a week. Summer specials will include a lobster omelette and shrimp frittata. Livia’s Dish is owned and operated by Oriola Koci and Chef Enton Mehillaj, the team who is also responsible for Altea’s on Park Avenue.

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Who’s driving?

Let’s all agree that millennials love to eat and drink out of trucks. This summer, the rosé & bubbly mobile from 90+ Cellars will fulfill all of your vehicular libation needs. The truck will grace The Grid’s Beer Garden terrace from 5-9 p.m. on Wednesday, June 19th and DJ Jon Strader promises to help you ride the rosé wave all night long.

Youth-iversary

Happy 25th anniversary to the Worcester Youth Center. Celebrate at Redemption Rock Brewing Company on Sunday, June 23 from 2-7 p.m.

As the motto goes, WYC is “not just a place to go, but a place to go further” for our city’s young people who face poverty, trauma, and vulnerable housing situations. All WYC programs and services are free of charge thanks to the generosity of supporters like you and me. Enjoy nostalgic field day activities and summer flatbreads by NOMS. Admission includes a beer and a commemorative glass.

The Hotties are Coming

Alex Nystedt, formerly of Sportello, and Alex Kim, general manager of Eventide Fenway, are gearing up for the official opening of Hot Chix in Boston. In preparation, Hot Chix Boston is headed west for a special Nashville Hot Chix pop up right here in Worcester. Chef Jared Forman will welcome the hot Boston duo to simjang on Tuesday June 25th beginning at 5 p.m. Guests can enjoy a fried chicken sandwich and three sides for just $19. Sides will include broccoli salad and collard greens as well as a few of simjang’s Korean favorites. Sarah Connell contributing writer

culture The Brick Grill Brings Appeal to Sterling

27 Main St., Sterling • 978-563-1906 • thebrickmexicangrill.com SANDRA RAIN

slow roasted pork, rice, refried beans, red onions, lettuce and cilantro then drenched in salsa verde, pico de gallo, ranchero cheese and Mexican sour cream. If you prefer corn tortillas, you can order the same combo as a taco platter ($14.50). The tacos al carbon ($14.50) are also notable, served with charbroiled sirloin steak, fresh cilantro, red onions, fresh lime and mild tomatillo sauce, then topped with thick slices

J U N E 20 - 26, 2019 WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

ccording to locals, The Brick Grill experienced some pushback when it opened in Sterling in 2016. For context, at that time, only 4.3% of the local elementary school’s population identified as Hispanic. This year, that figure has jumped to 6.1%, which may not sound like huge growth, but in a small town with only enough restaurants to count on one hand, it feels significant. Once described in early Yelp reviews as “slow” and “empty,” now The Brick Grill is routinely packed and operates with steadfast efficiency. The people of Sterling are The Brick Grill offers exceptional Mexican embracing cuisine in the small town of Sterling. tacos and SANDRA RAIN guac with an enthusiasm of creamy avocado. Pair with a Negra once reserved for Rota Spring alone. The orange interior is festive, if not Modelo ($5.50) for blissful refresha bit jarring upon entry. A cartoonish ment. The Brick Grill is well worth the 25 painting of Frida Kahlo with a baby minute trip from Worcester because monkey captures the room. One of it represents Mexican cuisine made my companions described it as “the with pride, fortitude and fresh Frida Bratz doll.” We couldn’t stop ingredients. It’s not easy opening up staring. Sombreros and bells jut out at various angles, giving off a hip Los a restaurant in a town of less than 8,000. I am especially enchanted by Angelino roadside taco vibe. Tables the idea of a small, family-owned are smooth and white washed in Mexican joint winning over a town contrast to the dark and regal high which President Donald Trump took backed chairs. by almost four points in 2016. The salsa that arrives with warm The drive is scenic. The service tortilla chips is a traditional Mexican sometimes lingers. The food is exquisauce made with tomatoes, onions, garlic and mild chiles. It isn’t chunky site. On my last visit with two friends, we ran up a total of $113.31. like the jars from Hannaford’s snack aisle, but smooth and sweet with a slow burn so slight that it is eclipsed Explanation of Stars: Ratings are from by the fresh lime from just one sip of zero to five. Zero is not recommended. One is poor. Two is fair. Three is sata house margarita ($10.50). isfactory. Four is good. Five is excellent. Guacamole arrives in a plastic molcajete ($8.99) made fresh with Food: HHHH avocado, tomatoes, cilantro and Ambience: HHH jalapeño. The Brick burrito ($14.50) Service: HHH also comes with a healthy dose of Value: HHH the green stuff atop a bulging flour tortilla that couldn’t stay tucked if it tried. The burrito is packed with

culture Molly breaks the laughs ceiling JIM KEOGH

W O R C E S T E R M A G A Z I N E . C O M J U N E 20 - 26, 2019

olly Patel is a woman of color with scant experience, so when she’s hired to join the all-white male writing team of a late-night talk show it’s a shock to their backstage brotherhood. At her first writers’ meeting, with no chair available, Molly empties a wastepaper basket, flips it over and sits on it. The metaphor is unmistakable: If you don’t fit the profile and you want a seat at the table, you’d better get inventive – and this may require inventing your own chair. Written by and starring Mindy

Kaling, “Late Night” is billed as a comedy, but that’s misleading. The film is a pointed takedown of the sausage-making behind late-night gabfests, which historically have not been welcoming venues for the Kalings of the world. A veteran writer-producerperformer on “The Office” and “The Mindy Project,” Kaling knows this world. Her Molly is a diversity hire, brought on to add relevance to the show hosted for nearly 30 years by the legendary Katherine Newbury (Emma Thompson). The program has grown stale, ratings have fallen, and the network president (Amy Ryan) is looking to replace Katherine with new blood. Katherine doesn’t help her own case. Not only is she resistant to change (she fights to interview the

likes of Doris Kearns Goodwin rather than social media celebrities), Katherine is a notoriously witchy boss to her writing staff. Many have never met her, and on the rare occasion she attends a creative meeting, she’s surprised to learn one of her favorite writers died years ago. Her monologue writer, Tom Campbell (Reid Scott of “Veep”), intentionally steers Katherine away from political humor; Molly insists it’s time for the host to exercise her voice. The first chance she gets, Molly inserts a pro-choice joke into the opener. It’s not a great joke, but it says something. The movie really is Thompson’s – she’s the Jay Gatsby character (crossed with a bit of Meryl Streep in “The Devil Wars Prada”) straining for reinvention with light coaching from Kaling in the Nick Carraway role. Katherine has secrets of her own, including an ailing husband (John Lithgow) and an emergent scandal that recalls a similar episode involving David Letterman a decade ago. Thompson does a fine job playing Scrooge McHost, though I never bought her as a late-night icon. Her condescension and contempt for her staff, and seemingly her audience, would be easier to accept if she was also funny. She is not. A scene in which Molly watches YouTube clips of Katherine’s old stand-up routines reveals she never really was. While I’m receptive to Kaling’s message about adding fresh perspectives to the writing room (I don’t know this to be true, but as the old guard has retired and been replaced with the Colberts, Fallons, and Meyerses, I assume there’s been some improvement in this area), I was hoping for more punch from “Late Night” as a piece of entertainment. Kaling makes her points, then slides easily and safely into sitcomish trappings to flesh out the plot: unlikely changes of heart; a bait-andswitch office romance; “I’ve been such a fool” pronouncements. And yes, somewhere along the line, “Late Night” forgot to supply the laughs. This is a movie about the comedy universe! While she was exposing its sins, Kaling could have expressed why it’s also magical, and why she deserves her chair.

culture

Adoption option

Welcome to Adoption Option, a partnership with the Worcester Animal Rescue League, highlighting their adoptable pets. Check this space often to meet all of the great pets at WARL in need of homes.WARL is open seven days a week, noon-4 p.m., 139 Holden St. Check them out online at Worcesterarl.org, or call at 508-853-0030.

J U N E 20 - 26, 2019 WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

calendar Saturday June 22 Listen to one of Stan Lee’s Final works at That’s Entertainment

You’re invited to stop by the store for an official preview of the new audio book “Alliances: A Trick of Light” created by master storyteller Stan Lee, with Ryan Silbert, Luke Lieberman and Kat Rosenfield. The first chapter will be played over the PA system from 1-1:20 p.m. and again from 3-3:20 p.m.. This is a free event at 244 Park Ave.

Saturday June 22 Central Mass. Jazz 5k and Festival

This event marks the first annual jazz festival presented by WCCA TV. Featuring international acts, musical learning opportunities and fun arts and crafts activities for family fun. This event is preceded by the Jazz Festival 5k. Come meet us in Cristoforo Colombo Park, 172 Shrewsbury St. for swinging fun!

Thursday June 27, 1-4 p.m. Join the EcoTarium for Mud Day!

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From the Art, Nature and Play series, the EcoTarium invites you your families to enjoy nature-based activities and play. Make your own ceramic tiles

and mud sculptures, play mud toss or just squish around in the mud. Bring a change of clothes and join the messy fun at 222 Harrington Way.

Friday June 28, 9-11 p.m. Ladylike! The All Female Comedy Show

Come see some of the funniest ladies around at the Bull Mansion Event Space at 55 Pearl St. Doors open at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 pre-sale and $20 at the door.

Saturday June 29, 12-10 p.m. Worcester State University '80s Alumni Reunion

For classes 1980 to 1989, come meet up with old friends and make new ones! Chandler Village will be providing overnight housing for those that wish to stay. There will be a tour of campus and a '80s Reunion Party in the Blue Lounge of the Student Center with a buffet, cash bar, and professional DJ. Tickets to the party are $35. 486 Chandler St.

An all new

Woo Challenge! 5k Obstacle race Aug. 3, 2019 | Downtown Worcester

Telegram.com/woochallenge

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NEW RACE, NEW COURSE, NEW FUN!

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games

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J O N E S I N’ Across 1 What “x” may mean 6 Web presence? 10 Hunk of granite 14 “___ It Goes” 15 “Mighty Bruins” is their fight song 16 Lake Titicaca neighbor 17 Meals provided at meetings, sometimes 19 Z, on some graphs 20 “The Lord of the Rings” actress Tyler 21 Comprehended 23 Allowed 24 Touches down 26 Interstellar dust cloud 28 2004 Google event, briefly 29 “Casablanca” star 31 Tagliatelle, e.g. 34 Hawaii’s “Gathering Place” 35 Current measurements 38 “All Things Considered” host Shapiro 39 Oversized candy that includes paraffin 42 Mo. with National Pulled Pork and Cinnamon Roll Days (not at the same time, ew) 43 “Thank U, ___” (Grande album) 45 Office note 46 Reason to use sunscreen 48 Perks (up) 50 Network that revived the CBS show “Press Your Luck” 51 Salad that traditionally has anchovies 53 French automaker that turned 100 in March 57 Alex’s “Jeopardy!” predecessor 58 Ingredient in some margaritas 61 Voting “aye” 62 Bit of dust 64 Magnifying glass component 66 One with a laptop 67 Additive in some tissues 68 Blunt 69 It comes twice after “Que” in a song 70 “Monstrous” loch 71 Theater capacity

“It’s the Big One” — a sizeable pair. by Matt Jones

Down 1 Small Indian hand drum 2 How doughnuts are often prepared 3 Year that Mary Tudor was born, in Roman numerals 4 Adult ed. course 5 Left-hander 6 Penguin projectiles? 7 Have a hankering 8 Remote valley 9 Relaxing 10 Massage place 11 Comic book villain introduced in 1940 12 Flounder’s friend 13 “Woo Hah!! Got You All in Check” rapper Rhymes 18 Treaty that turns 70 in 2019 22 “Big Read” gp. 25 “Vamoose, varmint!” 27 Frat guy, probably 29 Soothing ointments 30 Cedar Point’s location 31 Frying need 32 “What ___ you thinking?” 33 Like none of the words in this clue, uncharacteristically 34 Beasts of burden 36 “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” label 37 “Animal Farm” setting

40 Cheese in a wrapper 41 Underlying themes 44 “Whether ___ nobler in the mind ...” 47 DVD player predecessor 49 “Batman Forever” actor Kilmer 50 Senator’s assistant 51 “L’Etranger” novelist 52 Got up 53 Some areas in “The Legend of Zelda” 54 “Nixon in China,” for one 55 Dadaist painter Max 56 Mr. Potato Head parts 59 Underground burrower 60 Space chimp of 1961 63 Major time period 65 “Go Set a Watchman” author

Fun By The Numbers Like puzzles? Then you’ll love sudoku. This mind-bending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to the test! Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

Last week's solution

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last call Lindsay Pope graphic designer L

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indsay Pope is the owner of Pocket Studio Creative. She is a seasoned graphic designer who has facilitated transformative rebranding for many of New York’s top hotels and restaurants. Pope grew up in Worcester and moved back to the city three years ago to be closer to family. Some of her local projects include simjang, Crust Bakeshop and North Main Provisions. She recently designed the “Problems” album for her husband’s band, The Get Up Kids. Follow her on Instagram: @pocket_studio. Why did you decide to move from Worcester to New York? I always knew I wanted to live there. The pivotal moment was September 11th. Watching that tragedy made me embrace what I really wanted to do with my life. I never wanted to regret not living in New York City. I visited New York a lot when I was growing up because my brother lived there for so long. I would take the train down on my own. I was always very comfortable with going there by myself. To be honest, I felt more afraid to walk around Piedmont Street by myself at night than in a big city like New York where it felt like someone would always be around to help you. I agree, someone is within earshot at all hours of the day in New York. What drew you to marketing? I was an art history major. I didn’t feel like I wanted to be a teacher and that was what a lot of people would become with an art history degree. I didn’t really know what else to do. I thought I was going to be a famous painter. It’s not too late. I used to keep a journal to write down what I did every day, thinking maybe someday they’d find it when I was dead and understand my thoughts on painting. Obvi-

ously if I read those journals now I’d be so embarrassed.

DYLAN AZARI

The New York Magazine art critic Jerry Saltz was a truck driver until he was in his 40’s. Whenever I feel like I’m running out of time, he gives me hope. I think we’re living in the best time right now because you’re not forced to figure your path out right away. Marketing is creative and stimulating, but it’s also a job you can get paid for. I got a job as a fashion advertising intern. I didn’t know how to use the software because at that time I didn’t even have a computer, but I watched other people and figured it out. I was doing the layouts for magazines like Vogue and Vanity Fair, creating the files for Burberry and David Yurman. From there, I went to Revlon doing similar work. Then, I found an opportunity working for Ian Schrager and Morgans Hotel Group and I became their art director. I just watched the Studio 54 documentary about Ian Schrager. I didn’t realize that in addition to founding Studio 54, he really pioneered the concept of boutique hotels. Yes! How good was that documentary? I used to work in this big loft building on the far west side of Manhattan on the water. Remember when Sully landed that airplane in the Hudson River? I watched the whole thing happen from my office. Anyway, when I started working there it was a weird time because Ian Schrager had just left the building. They said, “Don’t ask. We don’t talk about Ian.” When that documentary came out in the fall, it was almost like all the secrets had finally been revealed and I finally understood what had happened. My friends and I always loved going to The Meatball Shop on the Lower East Side for late

night snacks. Is it true you did all of their branding? That all started with Morgans Hotel Group. That’s really where I started doing branding for hotels all over the world, and they all had at least one or two restaurants as well as a bar. When I left Morgans Hotel Group to start my own company with a friend, I had so many restaurants in my portfolio. Meatball Shop had done their own branding and it was a little scrappy, but when it was time to expand they reached out to us. I’ve found my success in design whenever I have created strong relationships. You have to understand that you’re taking someone’s passion and their dream and you have to be so careful with that. You can’t just run with whatever you think is right. It’s a balance between what you know innately as a creative person and also what they have in mind without leaning on them too much.

When did you and your husband meet and decide to start a family? We had a common friend in Brooklyn; his name is Spanky. He was bartending one weeknight and he was like, ‘You should come down.’ I went to the gym and I almost didn’t go, but finally I said, ‘Alright.’ Rob was also going to meet Spanky. It was one of these funny things because Rob walked in with his friend and I did this thing where I saw them together and thought, ‘Look at the married couple.’ I made this whole story up in my head. Do you ever do that? Like, you know, they have a babysitter, they’ve got kids at home, they’re out for the night. It turned out it wasn’t that at all. We just had this funny night. We did this weird thing where I was tapping out the beat of songs for him to guess like ‘Who let the dogs out?’ and songs by TLC. It was a weird

time because he’d been touring his whole life. At that time, he was still playing with Spoon. He had an apartment in Brooklyn and it was in between album cycles. Everyone told me, ‘This is crazy. Rob’s around. He hasn’t been around for like 15 years.’ It was perfect timing and we just became really good friends. Then, we got married. When my daughter was six months old and I was pregnant with my son, it was getting hard. I had been in New York for 14 years and I felt like I had lived every life possible. It was kind of like, ‘I don’t know what else this city has for me.’ Life was zooming past and I wanted to enjoy every moment with my kids. I never thought I would move back here, but at the end of the day, one of the best parts of my life was my childhood in Worcester and I knew I could raise my kids in this place. – Sarah Connell

Saturday, June 22, 9:30am-5:30pm

BIGGER DIPPER ICE CREAM FESTIVAL & ABILITYFEST WALK Join us for the Bigger Dipper, an inclusive event for people of all abilities featuring a one-mile walk, all-you-can-eat ice cream, entertainment, and more!

Worcester’s Elm Park

sevenhills.org/biggerdipper

WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

Proceeds will benefit Children’s Friend services for children and families in Worcester, and Community Connections for people with disabilities supported by Seven Hills.

J U N E 20 - 26, 2019

9:30 am Walk Registration 10:30 am Walk Begins 11:00 am Ice Cream Festival

WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

J U N E 20 - 26, 2019