42 minute read
RHODY READS: Six books
By Hugh Minor
Rhody Reads
Books with local connections about home, garden, and life
Spring is in the air and it’s the ideal time to think about ways to freshen up where we live and work, which are often the same these days. Fortunately, Rhode Island is filled with expert designers and decorators to show you the way. Take a look at these six books written by local authors who can help you see your living and outdoor spaces in new and exciting ways.
Houses come in all shapes and sizes and Warren resident Katie Hutchison’s The New Cottage: Inspiration for America’s Favorite Home highlights the smaller, simpler kind. The word “cottage” elicits feelings of romance and comfort and Hutchison’s design strategies capture that emotion, providing tips and tools for you to bring some love and light into your space. Also look for Hutchison on Apple Podcasts where she co-hosts Design Me a House with Bristol textile designer Dawn Oliveira.
Maintaining a home can be a full-time job, especially when you own a three-family with tenants. In Tenemental: Adventures of a Reluctant Landlady, author Vikki Warner relates her “adventures” as she learns to care for her triple-decker in the Federal Hill neighborhood of Providence with patience and love. It isn’t always smooth sailing, but it’s definitely worth going along for the ride.
Our home is where we live, love, and heal. Former Travel & Leisure editor-in-chief Dominique Browning shares how her home helped her rebuild her life in the beautiful and poetic Around the House and in the Garden: A Memoir of Heartbreak, Healing, and Home Improvement. Caring for a home is a way of caring for ourselves while leaving behind a permanent testament to our ability to survive.
Jill Rizzo of Middletown shop Farm and Flora Collective, is also a noted author on floral design. In Branches & Blooms: A Step-byStep Guide to Creating Magical Centerpieces, Wreaths, Garlands, and Other Unexpected
BAILEY HOLLAND Real Estate Agent
“Anything I can do to help people is my passion,” says Bailey Holland of T.L. HOLLAND REAL ESTATE. Inspired by her grandmother, who founded the company, Bailey channels her mentor’s energy, determination, and focus to help families with buying or selling a home. “I love helping youth and families any way that I can,” she says.
3948 Main Road, Tiverton 401-624-8469 • TLHolland.com
CARRIE A. MCPHERSON, CRPS®, CDFA®, ChSNC®
Financial Advisor
“I was thankfully exposed to investing young,” says financial advisor Carrie McPherson. “Due to my mother having a debilitating mental illness, I saw firsthand how di cult life can be without a safety net.”
These experiences drew Carrie to financial planning, where she helps clients feel more confident about building and maintaining their financial futures through strategic planning and diversified investment portfolios. “The best advice I can give is to start saving something today for tomorrow. Pennies eventually do add up to dollars and the power of compounding investment income is incredible.”
Acutely aware of how chronic care can derail a family’s financial security, Carrie is developing a program to help families with special needs members prepare for their future. “I love being a partner to my clients and like to think I make an impact in their lives today and in the future.”
BeaconPoint Wealth Advisors a financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC 1 Citizens Plaza, Suite 610 Providence • 824-2557 www.ameripriseadvisors.com/team/ beacon-point-wealth-advisors
Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, a registered investment adviser.Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2022 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.
KATIE SCHIBLER CONN
Founder, KSA Marketing “When things don’t go right, go left,” advises Katie Schibler Conn, founder of
KSA MARKETING.
Katie learned this mantra when, in 2010, she found herself burned out, stressed out, and unfulfilled. She left her dream job at PlayStation with a one-way ticket to South America. For a year, she traveled alone from Peru to Uzbekistan, gaining clarity in every moment that went sideways. “Like the scars from flipping over the handles of a bike as I rode down a Volcano, midnight border crossings, bribing customs agents to avoid deportation, or paying to sleep on the floor of a hotel lobby,” she says. When she returned to the US, she opened KSA Marketing and embraced the “oh sh*t” moments. “After more than a decade of running KSA, I have learned more from all the mistakes I made than from when things went perfectly,” says Katie. “I tell my sta and clients chaos creates clarity and opportunity - the
most transformative and impactful change comes from the tension that happens when nothing goes right.” Embracing what goes wrong has clearly gone right for Katie. Her agency is in the midst of a growth spurt and just moved to spacious new headquarters in Warwick. She’s an alumni of Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses, on the Forbes Agency Council, and was named the 2021 Creative Services Woman to Watch by PBN. “After over 20 years in this industry, I still love every part of advertising and marketing,” she says. “But the best part is mentoring employees in their own growth and building a team that shows up every day ready to kick a*s. Watching people I have managed or mentored achieve great success, personally and professionally, just lights me up.” Katie and her team are fearless in the 100 Metro Center Blvd, Unit 4, Warwick • 401-681-4900 face of chaos, helping map a path to her clients’ success. “Be bold, crazy, and not TeamKSA.com afraid to kick some a*s,” she says.
Real Estate Agent
THE PERFECT FIT A history bu with a marketing degree and experience working as a tour guide, Kathleen Flaherty decided to make the pivot from math interventionist at an elementary school to real estate agent with KELLER WILLIAMS five years ago. The decision was kismet. “I always loved the industry, and throughout my entire adult life, I had friends and family members tell me that it would be the perfect profession for me.”
With a passion for helping people, Kathleen aims to make the process of selling or finding a home seamless. “I have life experience of selling my family home and it is extremely emotional, so I think my compassion and patience helps my clients tremendously when it is time to make that big move,” she says, whether they’re seeking their dream home or downsizing; Kathleen is committed to ensuring each transaction is done with professionalism and ease.
Kathleen holds a real estate license in MA, RI, and CT, was awarded one of Keller Williams’ top agents, and has single-handedly sold 25 homes in this past year alone. Zillow reviews praise Kathleen’s level of care, responsiveness, and professionalism. “My focus is on my client’s needs no matter what. I never think of the money during a transaction, but rather work as hard as I can to help my clients achieve their goal.”
“LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE” Along with matching clients to their perfect home, Kathleen is a lifelong Rhode Islander, now living in Barrington, dedicated to helping people settle into the area. To express her Ocean State love, she started an Instagram blog, “The East Coast Rhody” four years ago with the motto of “Love where you live,” sharing local restaurants, events, and shops with her followers. “It’s critical to shop local. If we don’t support these unique places, these buildings would be vacant.” Now businesses reach out to Kathleen sharing their events and thanking her for the support, while visitors ask for recommendations and folks looking to relocate reach out about their real estate needs, too.
Growing up, Kathleen’s local love blossomed from spending her summers on Hog Island on the Narragansett Bay. “The moment school was out, my parents would load up the car and boat and take us to the island where we wouldn’t leave until the dreaded Labor Day weekend,” she shares. “We spent our summers barefoot, swimming, sailing, and quahogging. The island was magic and there was no place else I wanted to be but there.”
FAMILY FIRST Kathleen has also hosted a Zac Brown Band pre-concert fundraiser, is an active member of the Bristol Christmas Committee, and wrote a children’s book, but at the end of the day everything she does comes down to family. “My family is everything to me,” she says of her four children and husband of 27 years. “I’m motivated by them to work as hard as I can to make our life the best it can be.” She achieves this through perseverance and an ever-present mindset of gratitude.
Her book, An Octopus Named Mom, was inspired by her own experience parenting young children and teaching them patience. “During those times, I would wish I had eight arms so I could get everything done at once, so no one would have to wait and we could have more time for play.”
Now, just as Kathleen grew up summering on Hog Island – where she learned to drive a boat at 10 and loved hopping on the Prudence Ferry – her own children are able to live the island life and create new memories. “Rhode Island is special. The people are special and when you grow up here, there is a sense of pride and community. This is home to me.”
MIA DOBIES
Executive Pastry Chef
“I fell in love with baking at an early age,” says Mia Dobies, as she tests new recipes for the spring menu at
GROUNDSWELL CAFE + BAKERY.
After earning a degree in Baking & Pastry Arts from Johnson & Wales University and honing her skills in Boston, Mia landed her “dream job” at Tiverton Four Corners. “I love what I do!” she says.
3883 Main Road, Tiverton GroundswellCafeGarden.com
KIMBERLY J. POLAND
Advertising & Public Relations Agency President
“I become the advertising, public relations and marketing department for clients,” says Kimberly J. Poland, founder of POLAND MEDIA GROUP, a full-service agency. “I love taking that work off an owner’s plate so they can do what they do best – while I do what I do best.” A small business owner herself, she adds, “I’m able to put myself in their shoes and pride myself on finding the best return on investment and making any budget work.
“Delivering results is my passion. There’s nothing more satisfying than creating solutions to help clients succeed,” says Kimberly, who provides businesses with everything from brand management to public relations, to media buying, website building, social media management and production. “I personally find great satisfaction when a story I’ve pitched for a client is picked up as a magazine article or an interview on television.”
With her expertise, Kimberly can simplify marketing decision making. “Business owners get hit up with so many options. I help them find their balance.”
401-743-7272, PolandMediaGroup.com
DEBRA L’HEUREUX Certified Matchmaker
310 Maple Avenue Suite L05-A, Barrington, 401-289-0900 GetReadytoDate.com “I’m in love, I’m in love and I don’t care who knows it,” says the character Buddy in the delightful 2003 movie Elf. It’s a joyous moment in the film and the impression one gets from the radiating smile of Debra L’Heureux. “I was hit by Cupid’s arrow at 49 and found the love of my life,” she beams. This profound feeling caused Debra to leave her longtime job in academia to become a matchmaker and start a company which she named GET READY TO DATE.
Along with a knack for connecting people, Debra has solid creds – she received her certification from the Matchmaking Institute and is a graduate of the Relationship Coaching Institute. On her Get Ready to Date website she keeps a blog and a Dear Debra page with the kinds of dating do’s and don’ts you don’t get from an app.
“My clients say I have a discerning and passionate heart and am a consummate romantic. I possess the tenacious resolve of a headhunter to introduce clients to their next great love,” she says. Debra’s process begins with a complimentary consultation. “I create what I call a second chance for love blueprint. I interview clients who have decided that finding love is a top priority in their life. I comb New England to find quality matches that clients would not find on their own.”
While nothing gives this matchmaker more joy than finding new love for widows, she works with any clients over 40 and the demand for her services is clear, as many singles looking for love have visited her Barrington office. “It’s never too late to dream a new dream and have the courage to love again,” says Debra before citing a favorite quote: “If it’s not mad passionate love, it’s a waste of time. There are too many mediocre things in life and love should not be one of them!”
Carmen Grinkis, Ph.D., CLTC, CLU®, CFP® Wealth Advisor & Co-Managing Partner
Carmen Grinkis is a unique licensed investment adviser. Not only is she a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) professional, she has a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. “I transitioned from psychology after 15 years to financial planning after joining my father’s retirement planning practice,” she explains. “I especially enjoy helping clients focus their resources to support their best lives.”
Her professional background may be a bit unorthodox, but her perspective as a psychologist brings surprising benefits to her financial planning work. “So much of financial planning is life planning. I approach each individual client with the intention of becoming attuned to their unique spirit and goals,” says Carmen. “This is the magic I love so much about personal financial planning.
“At AAF WEALTH MANAGEMENT, we serve as a Financial Sherpa for our clients, helping them navigate their financial journey—including managing money, striving to provide them with peace of mind, helping them to achieve goals, and ultimately fulfillment,” she continues. “We believe that the future our clients envision cannot be achieved through investments alone.”
In her role as Financial Sherpa, Carmen is involved in a full range of services that are not typically part of a financial advisor experience. Instead, the focus is on the interplay of all the elements that comprise a client’s financial life, including taxes, business interests, investments, philanthropy, insurance, and estate planning. “We forecast, implement, monitor, and react in ways that keep their financial plan on course and bring longterm goals into clear view,” she explains.
While her approach to financial planning and managing wealth is structured, it is also highly individualized to match each client. “I love the uniqueness and originality of the clients I advise—from the professions they choose to the legacies they are planning to leave. Each of our client’s goals is personal, distinctive, and in progress,” she says. “One commonality of our clients is that they have complex financial needs. It’s incredibly fulfilling to understand their short and longterm goals, and to leverage all the resources available to help integrate and coordinate all the elements of their financial lives.”
Carmen’s creative spark allows her to bring new, unconventional ideas to financial planning, discovering “win-win” solutions that have a long-term positive impact on people. From connecting with clients over Zoom wine tastings to working one-on-one with them to understand their intricate financial needs, Carmen values the close, personal relationships she develops with them through being a boutique Registered Investment Advisor (RIA). “We are approaching $500M in Assets Under Management, and our organic growth is due to client referrals—which is the highest compliment we can get,” she says.
Carmen is proud to call picturesque Tiverton home. She and her wife Kathrine “Kitty” Lovell, a fine artist who paints nature scenes, were the first female couple to get married in the town, within days after it was legalized, holding their wedding in their backyard garden.
She and Kitty are both active supporters of South Coast Artists, Inc. and the Tiverton Land Trust. They are also members of the Tiverton Yacht Club, the University Club of Providence, and the LPGA Amateur Golf Association. When you see her around town, ask about her other passions, which include music, vintage turntables, golf, squash, travel, and outdoor adventure. “Not to brag,” she jokes, “but I’ve been recognized five times for the Four Corner’s Art Center Annual ReTree Event.” Her entry in 2021 was an homage to her late parents and their love of golf.
“I am deeply in love with my RI Sakonnet Coastal region. We are surrounded by artists and creative, like-minded people,” she says. “I remain deeply committed to the success of our Rhode Island community.”
LISA SIENKIEWICZ AND GAIL PARELLA
Owners
GIL’S APPLIANCES is a familyowned and operated appliance store with two Rhode Island locations. Lisa Sienkiewicz and Gail Parella, co-owners and sisters, are proud to continue a tradition of trust, integrity, and value started by their parents, Gil and Sarah Almeida, in 1961. Family and community values are important to Lisa and Gail and they take pride in being at the helm of a multi-generational business that stands the test of time by continuing to provide the personalized service their customers have come to expect, both in-store and online.
Lisa, Gail and their team at Gil’s ensure that customers have the information they need to choose appliances for their home that fit their style, space, budget and timeframe. And as members of a large regional buying group, their prices and selection meet, and quite often beat, that of the big box stores. Gil’s carries all major appliance brands and offers free delivery and financing to qualified buyers. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram for information on upcoming promotions and events and to see the difference Gil’s makes!
Bristol: 397 Metacom Ave., 253-9789, Middletown: 926 Aquidneck Ave., 314-9789 • www.gilsappliances.com
ALICIA REYNOLDS
Realtor
259 County Road, Barrington 401-835-2605 AliciaReynoldsRealtor.com Whether you’re finding a new neighborhood, new town, or bringing the family “across the pond,” RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES LTD. realtor Alicia Reynolds can help make it happen. She brings years of mortgage lending and residential real estate experience and two Five Star Professional Rising Star awards to the job, but on a more personal level, she is intimately acquainted with the excitement and strife any relocation brings.
“As a native Rhode Islander with a large family, I’ve relocated my three kids – all at different ages and stages – around the world over the last 25 years, including Asia once and Europe twice!” Alicia shares. Along with the typical stress that comes with any move, she has also navigated the process with the unique struggles that accompany living with a chronic illness. “I understand better than anyone the challenges that accessibility can present at all stages of the moving process and bring my own knowledge and empathy to the table.”
Combined with the top-notch resources premier real estate company Residential Properties offers, Alicia is connected with a wide range of contacts, from building contractors and plumbers to attorneys and architects, to help make each step of the move painless. With a wry wit and empathetic ear, Alicia is a phone call away to answer questions throughout the process as a true advocate for her clients who prides herself in constant communication with all parties involved.
Entering a year when home inventory rates are at a historic low, Alicia says, “There has never been a better time to sell. I can help clients looking to sell or buy navigate the market successfully.” Along with managing an autoimmune disease, Alicia sold over $7.6 million worth of real estate in her first year alone, and isn’t slowing down. “It is a huge leap of faith for someone to entrust you with one of the biggest decisions of their lives. I never take that for granted.”
Fashion Designer and Founder
“I wake up every morning feeling like the luckiest girl in the world because I love what I do,” says Sinesia, designer and founder of her eponymous SINESIA KAROL SWIMWEAR company, which she launched in 2012. An instant success, the collection was first bought by luxury department store Bergdorf Goodman and is now sold all over the world, including Sinesia’s native Brazil. Newport was an easy choice to open the first store dedicated to the line of swimwear, dresses, accessories, and other beach apparel.
“I chose Newport because we live here part of the year, and most importantly, I always love the vibe in Newport and the people,” says Sinesia. “Summer here is priceless.”
She and her husband of 26 years raised their four now-grown children in Boston, but split their time between Portsmouth, RI (with a beach house at The Aquidneck Club, where her husband is one of the founders); Boston, MA; Miami, FL; and Vitória, Brazil. Sinesia’s story is rooted in family, beginning with her childhood in Vitória, an island beach town just north of Rio de Janeiro, where she took in the styles and trends of the region and her passion for design was cemented.
“My mother had a small bathing suit manufacturing business in my home town in Brazil,” Sinesia shares. “Growing up with her as my role model made me choose my career path today. My mom used to make all our clothes and I used to love going to the stores and choosing di erent fabrics with her. She loved taking me, as well, because I was very curious and always ready to learn. I knew then what I was going to be when I grew up.”
Sinesia’s line of elevated beachwear creates a marriage of both American and Brazilian sensibilities toward fashion and body confidence to bring the two distinct markets together. Each piece makes use of luxury fabrics and high-quality execution, down to the smallest details, to create beautiful and unique apparel.
From traveling to fashion and trade shows to making new connections in the industry, Sinesia shares that she loves every minute of it. “I’m surrounded by very exciting and interesting people all the time,” she says, and she relishes in tackling each new creative challenge. “I’m always playing with colors, fabrics, accessories, and much more.”
In her 10-year career, Sinesia is proud of her brand’s growth and reception. In that time, she has also spoken to crowds of aspiring fashion designers and entrepreneurs who look to her for inspiration, including the Istituto Marangoni Miami, a prestigious design school. “To me this is better than any award that I have ever received,” she says, “to be able to share my journey with kids that dream about this career one day.”
Sinesia also spoke to a crowd of 600 fashion and business college students in 2020, just before the pandemic. “It was the best experience I ever had,” she recalls now. “The audience was engaged, attentive, and curious about my life and career.”
On the horizon, Sinesia looks forward to launching a brand new line of men’s swim trunks soon while continuing to work with the clients she’s forged relationships with over the past decade.
To anyone beginning their own entrepreneurial journey, Sinesia o ers encouraging words: “If you have a dream, work hard to achieve it. Everything is possible when you put your heart and soul into it.”
135 Spring Street Newport • 401-847-1087 SinesiaKarol.us
JENNIFER JONES RASHLEIGH
Art Studio & Gallery Owner “My work as an artist is about the process of observing the world acutely,” begins Jennifer Jones Rashleigh, “and distilling natural details into their salient essence that can continue to speak their truth and their unique natural poetic eloquence.” Jennifer graduated with degrees in Art History and History, and conducted her doctoral research as a US Fulbright Scholar in Spain. She has taught art theory, art history, and fine art classes from collegeage to kindergarten, and in 2019 opened
CEDIAN PAINTING: STUDIO-GALLERY
in Tiverton. There, her portfolio of water and wildlife paintings dazzled visitors and attracted clients with her detailed, dynamic, and tactile art. “I work with acrylic in every capacity,” Jennifer explains. “Diluted washes, translucent gel coats, brushed, spilled, poured, knifed, dragged opacities, and thickly pulled impasto textures that lift o the canvas.” But stretched canvas isn’t all Jennifer works on – she is also known for her hand-painted pillows, which allow the viewer to experience her art in
a new way: “I encourage my clients to run their eyes and hands over the artwork,” she says. “There is something generative that occurs when we as humans look and touch something simultaneously.” By the end of last year, Jennifer found herself running out of space as the list of commissions and scale of work doubled. Her location in Tiverton Four Corners had grown too small, and so she seized the opportunity to open an even more expansive gallery in Little Compton Commons, where she continues to channel her creative energy into canvas. “The response to my growing body of water and wildlife painting has been exhilarating,” Jennifer confesses of her wildlife studies of birds, fish, and botanicals. Discover Jennifer’s inspiring art for yourself during her new studio’s grand opening on June 11, 2022 and stay tuned for Beginning Pillow Painting classes on Tuesday evenings during July and August. Stop by and visit 73 Simmons Road, Suite E, Little Compton • 508-951-0696 Wednesday through Saturday, 12-5PM, or
CedianPainting.com make an appointment!
GLORIA CRIST
President & Founder
156 Highland Road, Tiverton 401-749-1203 • ThinkFeelCreate.org @glosoul and @thecoreorg “The point of having access to the arts process is all about becoming a better human,” says Gloria Crist. This lifelong belief is what led Gloria to found THE CORE ORG in 2009. The Tiverton-based nonprofit has been a source and resource organization o ering arts enrichment and wellness in all mediums throughout the East Bay. Classes are based in all art formats and open to all students in Tiverton and throughout Newport County. Not funded by any school department, The CORE receives its funding through grants, donations, and modest tuition for enrollment in classes.
“We approach what we do by looking at the creative wants and needs of the whole person, using an arts template to address a wide variety of self expression,” Gloria begins. “Our programs are created specifically to provide arts AND mental well being, self confidence, self awareness, better communication skills, better ways to deal with stress … to provide arts that are not only the answer, but also invite more questions.” Since the pandemic, The CORE has expanded programs to include SEL (social emotional learning) to assist in the increase in anxiety and depression witnessed in grades K-12 along with partnering with other organizations to create new ways for young people to deal with the “overwhelming amount of emotions the COVID chaos has introduced into the everyday.” Originally from North Carolina, Gloria is a card carrying member of SAGAFTRA-AEA and will open in the March premiere of Charlotte Meehans new play Everyday Life and Other Odds and Ends at the Emerson Paramount Center in Boston. Her background includes awardwinning theater, film, and television, and developing a one-woman show in Las Vegas that became stand-up comedian Don Rickles’ opening act. This spring Gloria will also be busy preparing the CORE Youth Theater Company for the June production of Willy Wonka. “I get to work with a talented group of teaching artists who authentically love what they do. It’s pure joy!”
KATIE KELLY
Owner of Anchor Toffee
10 Sims Avenue, Suite 112, Providence • 439-1517 AnchorTo ee.com When Katie Kelly and her husband were blessed with a daughter, Michaela, the idea to open a family business focusing on artisan candy was serendipitous. Getting their start at Hope & Main, ANCHOR TOFFEE blossomed into its own Newport shop, earning them recognition from Yankee Magazine, The Boston Globe, Rhode Island Monthly, and Edible Rhody. Now, lots of hard work and happy customers later, they’ve grown into a second location with a kitchen and retail space in Providence.
“I created the retail space with little reminders of growing up near the ocean,” shares Katie about the new space. “There is warm hardwood decking for shelves and table tops, shiplap wall covering, and hints of the sea welcoming our guests into our store. I created a place where I feel I can give that same high-quality customer service I learned so long ago.”
Bringing a passion for food fostered at Johnson & Wales and a talent for customer service honed over years of working in retail, Katie wears many hats, from creating a personalized shopping experience to packaging boxes of sweets with a wax seal and perfectly tied bow. Having always wanted to own her own business, Katie notes that Anchor To ee is like a “second child,” which she has nurtured and grown to o er only the best. “I love that we built Anchor To ee from just a few products at farmers markets into a growing regional candy brand in the Northeast, with aspirations to go national in the future.”
In the meantime, Katie looks forward to rolling out new toffee flavors, truffle varieties, and a sugar-free line as soon as they perfect the formulas, along with tours of the new space and a signature candy bar. Proud to be a working mother, Katie shares, “I have not given up even when things got really tough, and the challenges seemed insurmountable. Great toffee, great family – I’m very grateful.”
ALETHEA DUNHAM-CARSON
Assistant Head of School for Teaching & Learning
45 Maxfield Ave. East Providence • 401-434-3833 GordonSchool.org “My career path has taken me to a variety of educational settings, but my interest has remained consistent: to find ways to increase equity and access in education, allowing all students to have high-quality, engaging, and joyful school experiences,” says Alethea DunhamCarson, new Assistant Head of School for Teaching and Learning at the GORDON SCHOOL. “I was excited to come to Gordon because of its authenticity and clarity of vision. The e ort to cultivate community, creativity, and human dignity runs through everything we do.” Alethea is a first-generation college graduate. She earned her BA in Sociology from the University of Pennsylvania and a Master’s degree in Educational Policy, Advocacy and Leadership from New York University. A trained S.E.E.D (Seeking Educational Equity and Diversity) Facilitator, Alethea is a past selected participant in the prestigious Fellowship for Aspiring Heads sponsored by the National Association of Independent Schools. Prior to joining Gordon, she held various positions at Meadowbrook School of Weston, most recently as their Director of Multicultural A airs.
In her role at Gordon, Alethea makes a direct connection between the school’s mission and the classroom experience. This year that includes leading the Study on Belonging, an initiative assessing Gordon’s diversity, inclusion and equity work that will help inform the next steps in the school’s growth and evolution.
Alethea is passionate about understanding the experiences of and partnering with different groups at Gordon – students, families, faculty, staff and leadership. “I am a firm believer in the power of schools to positively transform the lives of the children, families, and communities that they serve.”
PROVIDENCE MEDIA is the locally owned publishing company of four award-winning monthly magazines: Providence Monthly, So Rhode Island, The Bay, and Hey Rhody. The free publications reach roughly 100,000 readers every month, bringing the best of food, arts, culture, fashion and much more, in a uniquely Ocean State voice. Additionally there are websites, social media pages, and a podcast, all produced by a small but mighty team of editors, graphic designers, and a seasoned sales force to make it all happen.
Abigail Brown,
Senior Editorial Designer, started with Providence Media in 2019. Her talent for design quickly led to taking the lead in laying out every article, cover story, and cover for all four magazines each month. You may also see her name attached to original illustrations, a few of which have been turned into merchandise for causes available at Frog & Toad, Providence.
Shelley Cavoli,
Account Manager for Northern Rhode Island and Providence. Staff and customers were glad when Shelley recently rejoined the sales team after taking time away to assist her parents. “Our creative team publishes the best magazines. Everyday I see enthusiastic clients discover ways to be successful, I’m proud to be part of their success. Happy to be back!”
Louann DiMuccio-Darwich, Account Manager for East Bay and Providence. Louann has been with Providence Media for 14 years. Known for her warm demeanor, she has a long history of developing strong relationships with clients. “I am blessed to work with an amazing team and local business community.”
Ann Gallagher,
Account Manager for South County. Ann has been with Providence Media for 14 years serving her seaside beat of South County. “I love that I can shop and support local businesses while also helping them get their message out through our magazines. It’s so gratifying to see small businesses prosper with our help.”
Taylor Gilbert,
Senior Graphic Designer. Taylor uses her talents to create ads, rate cards and sell sheets, plus marketing materials for special events and more; additionally she assists with editorial design. “We all work together as one big family, constantly supporting and motivating us all to be a better company.”
Karen Greco,
Editor. The newest addition to the team as editor, Karen is a seasoned writer whose career started at Elle Magazine and Ladies’ Home Journal. She enjoys writing about fitness, food, and digging in to write in-depth cover stories and features. Karen is also the novelist of seven books and a novella.
Abbie Lahmers, Managing Editor. In 2021, hardworking Abbie was promoted to managing editor. In addition to taking on newsier stories, she assigns all Food & Drink, Rhody Gems, and Neighborhood News, and has transformed the Hey Rhody newsletter into a mini e-publication filled with magazine highlights, weekend must-do’s, and seasonal roundups.
Elyse Major, Editor-in-Chief. Since landing her dream job in 2018, Elyse’s various duties have included developing cover stories and overseeing the Life Style and Art & Culture sections. As the face of the company, she often appears on local TV and at events, proudly repping the magazines. Elyse also serves as co-president of the Rhode Island Press Association.
Kristine Mangan Olf, Account Manager for South County & Aquidneck Island. Kristine has been with Providence Media for nine years. With over 25 years of sales experience, Kristine prides herself on helping any sized business grow and prosper via advertising in both print and online. “I love our magazines and what they o er to the local community.”
Sascha Roberts, Digital Media Manager. While Sascha joined as an account manager, her enthusiasm for community led to her being recast as the company’s first digital media manager. Sascha now coordinates all social media (creator of #heyrhodyphotos), website content, and co-hosts the wildly popular Hey Rhody podcast.
Elizabeth Riel, Account Manager for Providence. Liz has been at Providence Media for over 14 years and has long been known for her dedication to helping businesses in Providence grow and thrive. She works closely with owners to create e ective ad campaigns. “I love our little city and seeing all the exciting changes over the years.”
spring HOME & GARDEN spring HOME & GARDEN
Local pros offer inspiration Local pros offer inspiration and tips for making large and and tips for making large and small changes inside and out small changes inside and out
BY ELYSE MAJOR BY ELYSE MAJOR
There’s an old proverb that says “March comes in like a There’s an old proverb that says “March comes in like a lion, goes out like a lamb.” Most of the time, this holds true lion, goes out like a lamb.” Most of the time, this holds true for the northeast; however, there was that April Fool’s Day for the northeast; however, there was that April Fool’s Day blizzard back in 1997 that still keeps many of us from stowing blizzard back in 1997 that still keeps many of us from stowing away those wool blankets until Memorial Day. Despite fickle away those wool blankets until Memorial Day. Despite fickle forecasts, once the potted hyacinths and da forecasts, once the potted hyacinths and da odils start odils start popping up at the market, who can resist daydreaming about popping up at the market, who can resist daydreaming about warmer days ahead? As sunlight streams into our living spaces warmer days ahead? As sunlight streams into our living spaces beyond 4pm, the urge to continue our hibernation is replaced beyond 4pm, the urge to continue our hibernation is replaced with motivation to refresh. Whether you make your home in a with motivation to refresh. Whether you make your home in a studio apartment or large farmhouse, to-do lists begin to form. studio apartment or large farmhouse, to-do lists begin to form. In this special Spring Home & Garden issue, find In this special Spring Home & Garden issue, find ideas both large and small for inside and out. ideas both large and small for inside and out.
Photos by Martin Vecchio Photography, courtesy of NEAT Method
A professional organizer shares tips and tricks for the kitchen
SET UP ZONES
“Creating ‘zones’ throughout your home or business is a great way to get and stay organized and force others using the space to as well.” Pasley o ers the example of a “zone” in the kitchen as the lunch prep zone, which could be one or a couple of drawers devoted to reusable bags, foils, or wraps, and to-go containers. “We suggest decanting everything into containers and even labeling (see third tip) to ensure anyone making lunches can find everything they need!” “If this is your first venture into organizing, instead of taking apart your entire kitchen pantry (which can be very overwhelming), start small,” advises Stephanie Pasley of NEAT Method Providence, a luxury organization service for homes and businesses. Pasley suggests emptying your “junk” or utility drawer and then “editing” – “determine what you no longer need or use that can be disposed of or put away elsewhere, and what you need to keep and put back.” Then, group those “keep” items together into categories (for example, writing utensils, tools, electronics, etc.) and corral them into smaller containers to place back into the drawer.
REVOLVE AROUND THE DISHWASHER
This is the most e cient way to set up your kitchen, explains Pasley. Keep your glassware, dish, and utensil cabinets and drawers in close proximity to the dishwasher to make unloading a breeze. Other most-used items should be given “prime real estate” in the kitchen after that, and least-used items should be placed in harder-to-access spaces that can be reached with a sleek step stool.
LABEL, LABEL, LABEL
“At NEAT Method, we love labels,” says Pasley, laughing. She suggests using labeled woven baskets to contain your least-used items to store on the top shelf in the pantry. “With a clearly labeled basket, you will always be able to tell exactly what’s inside without having to take out your step stool and pull the basket down.”
Design Design
Tips on hiring a landscape designer Tips on hiring a landscape designer or a landscape architect from an or a landscape architect from an award-winning professional award-winning professional
If we’ve all learned one thing during the pandemic, it’s If we’ve all learned one thing during the pandemic, it’s the invaluable role outdoor spaces play in our lives. the invaluable role outdoor spaces play in our lives. Whether for relaxation, socializing, or simply as a Whether for relaxation, socializing, or simply as a balm for our collective mental health, spending time balm for our collective mental health, spending time out of doors has never felt more important. Now, as out of doors has never felt more important. Now, as the days lengthen and the temperatures warm, many the days lengthen and the temperatures warm, many people emerging from the confines of their homes are people emerging from the confines of their homes are setting their sights on outdoor projects. setting their sights on outdoor projects.
Whether confronted with a blank slate following Whether confronted with a blank slate following a new construction or an overgrown yard, some a new construction or an overgrown yard, some property owners may feel intimidated by the prospect property owners may feel intimidated by the prospect of undertaking an outdoor renovation on their own. of undertaking an outdoor renovation on their own. Others simply don’t know where to begin. It’s at Others simply don’t know where to begin. It’s at these times that contacting a landscape professional these times that contacting a landscape professional might be the best course of action. If you have a very might be the best course of action. If you have a very definite idea as to the scope of your project and what definite idea as to the scope of your project and what you intend to accomplish, you may simply be able you intend to accomplish, you may simply be able to hire a contractor, be it a stonemason, landscape to hire a contractor, be it a stonemason, landscape contractor, or irrigation company. However, most contractor, or irrigation company. However, most builders will expect you to have a clear plan in hand builders will expect you to have a clear plan in hand and won’t help much with design. and won’t help much with design.
For assistance with outdoor design, it’s best to For assistance with outdoor design, it’s best to engage the services of either a landscape designer engage the services of either a landscape designer or a landscape architect. Although basically or a landscape architect. Although basically interchangeable, designers often excel at residential interchangeable, designers often excel at residential work and plant selection. A landscape architect, work and plant selection. A landscape architect, however, might be a better choice for projects that however, might be a better choice for projects that require extensive engineering or permitting. require extensive engineering or permitting.
Once you’ve decided on the type of Once you’ve decided on the type of professional that best suits your needs, you may professional that best suits your needs, you may want to interview a few di want to interview a few di erent design firms. To erent design firms. To get the most out of your first meeting, it’s useful get the most out of your first meeting, it’s useful to provide potential candidates with as much to provide potential candidates with as much information about your project as possible. To information about your project as possible. To that end I have created a list of four questions that end I have created a list of four questions that may help you organize your thoughts. that may help you organize your thoughts.
Andrew Grossman (AndrewGrossman.com) is an award-winning landscape designer based in Seekonk, MA. His own extensive gardens in Seekonk have been featured in many national publications and will be open to the public on June 11 as part of the Garden Conservancy’s Open Days Program. Learn more at GardenConservancy.org/open-days
WHAT ARE THE ISSUES YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADDRESS ON YOUR PROPERTY?
These may include creating privacy, assigning a play area for children, designating a space for dining or lounging, the layout of gardens or foundation plantings, installing a swimming pool, etc. Be sure to include everything on your wish list and arrange the items in order of importance.
WHAT IS YOUR BUDGET FOR THE ENTIRE PROJECT?
This question is key as your budget will a ect what you can accomplish and may eventually help you to streamline your wish list. Having little idea as to what di erent projects cost, some people may feel daunted by this question. Much like purchasing a new home or car, however, it helps to give serious thought to the total amount of money one feels comfortable spending. To that end, it may also be useful to consider the resale value of your home or the price of other houses in your neighborhood. Bear in mind that nothing sells a house faster than “curb appeal” and these days homes with beautiful grounds and swimming pools are in demand. In fact, since the onset of the pandemic, pools have become such a hot ticket item that many installers are booked months, if not years, in advance.
WHAT IS YOUR MAINTENANCE LEVEL?
This question relates primarily to plant selection since hardscaping (walls and patios) usually doesn’t require much care. As a rule, trees and shrubs require less attention than perennials or annuals. Of course, there are exceptions; tea roses, for example, top the list of high-maintenance shrubs. So, if you plan to manage the property yourself, do you like to garden? How much time can you commit to working in your yard? If you intend to hire a maintenance service, what is their skill set? Sadly, it’s becoming increasingly di cult to find knowledgeable workers that can do more than mow the lawn or trim bushes into balls. Also, it’s vital to remember that new plantings are often expensive and must be watered almost daily during the heat of the summer. Failure to do so for at least a few years may result in loss. It might come as a surprise that, despite the need for weekly mowing and consistent watering, the lawn is probably the lowest maintenance and least expensive planting option available today.
WHAT ARE YOUR AESTHETIC LEANINGS REGARDING LANDSCAPE DESIGN?
Do you have a particular landscape style in mind; formal or informal, modernistic, English Country? Images gleaned from websites, books, or magazines that reflect your taste can both solidify your desires and convey your aesthetic preferences to a design professional. When it comes to your front yard, it may also prove worthwhile to consider the architectural style of your home. For instance, I probably wouldn’t install a Japanese garden in front of a Tudor house. In your backyard, however, I encourage you to let your imagination run wild. – Andrew Grossman
The importance of hiring a pro for a full-scale kitchen remodel The importance of hiring a pro for a full-scale kitchen remodel
Who among us hasn’t had their head turned by a shiny new kitchen? Large spaces Who among us hasn’t had their head turned by a shiny new kitchen? Large spaces with gleaming floors, marble surfaces, apron sinks, and warming drawers. As the with gleaming floors, marble surfaces, apron sinks, and warming drawers. As the hardworking heart of any home, much time is spent in the room no matter its size. hardworking heart of any home, much time is spent in the room no matter its size. With anticipated tax refunds, more people than ever are considering a refresh to With anticipated tax refunds, more people than ever are considering a refresh to the household hub. On a shoestring budget, this can be as simple as a weekend of the household hub. On a shoestring budget, this can be as simple as a weekend of repainting cabinets and switching out hardware, or on the other end of the spectrum, repainting cabinets and switching out hardware, or on the other end of the spectrum, a major undertaking and investment, requiring much planning and professional help. a major undertaking and investment, requiring much planning and professional help.
SMALL CHANGES
If a full-scale remodel isn’t in the cards, there are many things you can do to make updates: • Replace cabinet hardware • Update light fixtures • Refresh hardwood floors • Paint anything from walls to cabinets • Add rugs to bring pattern and texture to floors
A co ered ceiling to hide a pipe was among the modifications prescibed in this kitchen remodel
Jennifer Voll, owner and operating manager at Cypress Design Co. in East Providence, tells us that hiring professionals is a must. “There are so many elements that go into a kitchen remodel that if you leave anything to chance it could end up costing you far more and extending the time of the project.” As an example, Voll cites, “You can spend $50K on cabinetry, but if you hire an unlicensed handyman who installs them incorrectly, then you really have done yourself an enormous disservice.” She advises that the first step is knowing exactly what you can spend. “General rule of thumb for a kitchen renovation is spending approximately 12-15 percent of the value of the home.”
Timing is everything in a kitchen re-do. Voll says knowing your contractor’s time frame as well as the lead time of materials is key. “Having everything coordinated well in advance allows for a quicker install. Also, be aware that due to COVID, many manufacturers were forced to shut down or limit production, so long lead times are being experienced throughout the entire industry.
“People spend so much of their time in the kitchen, that it’s essential to utilize every square inch to fit the needs of the people who call the space home. People want the kitchen to be a gathering space,” says Voll. As far as trends, she notes that the open concept plan has not really gone anywhere in the last few years. “Customers are comfortable knocking down walls and losing a formal dining room to incorporate a roomy island to sit around while cooking, eating, doing homework, and enjoying a glass of wine.” – Elyse Major
