On the Mic

Don’t forget to check here for the latest on what’s new around town!

July 2005 – Botox and Beer: Mahoney’s Pub at 413 Park Avenue has recently received a face-lift. Sporting a maroon exterior with a chic gold sign, Mahoney’s now has refinished wood work inside, flat screen TVs, and has returned to its original metal ceiling. These updates have really made a difference and have brought back the old Mahoney’s energy. And this way, if you fall off your bar stool during the evening you’ll at least have some great stuff to look at on the way down!

Foam Away from Home: If you feel the urge to slip-n-slide into the weekend, look no further than Water Street’s own Rage ~ they have an awesome new Foam Pit fest every Thursday. Rage offered one of New England’s first foam nights, and while flattered that others followed suit, owner Tim DeSantis felt the need to up the ante and “take the foam party to the next level.” Deeper, safer and sexier, the new pit, with its “moonbounce” sides, is attracting more people than ever. Join the fun but don’t forget to take off at least your shoes!

Complimentary Go-Go Dancers: The Mining Company at 105 Water Street, Rage’s new “other half,” will have its Grand Opening on July 15th at 7pm. Separated from Rage by a sound-proof wall, it will offer a quieter place to talk for those looking for friendship sans foam. To celebrate this auspicious opening, there will be a complimentary buffet…complete with yummy go-go dancers!

A Permanent Home for Buster: Buster the Crab™, the bright red, 75 ft. long, 12 ft. high inflatable crustacean who’s spent his last 12 summers draped over The Sole Proprietor’s Highland St. roof, now has a permanent home and family! Robb and Madeleine Ahlquist, owners of The Sole, have officially adopted Buster as their very own. Described by his new parents as “well-behaved, hard-working and always reliable,” Buster, a creation of Incredible Inflatables, Inc. of Lahaina, Hawaii, is scheduled to take his place on the roof on July 5, 2005, staying put until July 30, 2005. As always, special crab dishes will be available on the menu to coincide with Buster’s arrival. And when the charming crab is not welcoming diners from his rooftop perch, he’ll be kept comfortably deflated inside his new home, available for special events and occasions. www.thesole.com.

Jazz Night: Porto Bello at 156 Shrewsbury St. will offer Jazz Night on Friday and/or Saturday, depending upon the week. Shows begin at 8.30pm and sets usually last for four hours. Mike at Porto Bello said the event began because there weren’t many relaxing things to do out after a nice dinner. This way people can linger, kick back, and be entertained by some soothing jazz. Call (508) 753- 9865 to confirm performance night.

Tied at the Times: Irish Times favorite Terry Brennan is returning to the fold to liven up Thursdays. He won’t be back for a month or so, so keep checking here for specific dates. Sean Ryan of Uncle Billy’s Smokehouse (voted Worcester’s Best Rock Band) plays every Sunday at around 9 or 10. The two artists tied in the Reader’s Tip category of Best Solo Performances in the 2004 Wormtown Sound Awards. Irish Times is located at 244 Main Street. Call (508) 797-9599 for more information.

Comedy at Club Bravo: Bravo Cafe at 57 Highland Street has added comedy! A different comedian will entertain guests the third Friday of every month. Coming July 8: Joey Canzano, “The Man of Many Voices,” pays homage to Frank Sinatra, Elvis, Tony Bennett and more. Tickets are $12.00. (508) 798-2000.

Boston Billiard’s Acoustic Thursdays: In addition to all the recent renovations ~ including the addition of 28 Brunswick Gold Crown tables, a new, elegantly appointed private function room and new fireplace by the bar, a new lounge, café, patio and menu ~ BB is now adding a summer Acoustic Thursdays series featuring some of the most talented musicians and vocalists in the area. Coming up this month: July 7 and 28, Brian Letourneau, July 14 Chris Reddy, July 21 Two of Us. Shows start at 8:30pm. 454 Grove Street, (508) 852-2121.