Celebrating our 86th Year!
New Listing! $1,250,000
Gracious College Hill brick Colonial. Lovely detailed interior. Fireplaces, gleaming hardwoods, 7 bedrooms, 3 ½ baths. Close to Brown, restaurants, shops and easy highway access.
Kathryn Lawrence
New Listing! $695,000
New Price! $590,000
Elegant center hall Colonial in prime location on upper Freeman Parkway. Lovely original details, glorious sunroom, spacious eat-in kitchen, Master suite, very private yard.
Lise Holst
New Listing! $298,000
Beautifully and thoroughly restored home in College Hill. 4 beds, 3 ½ baths, central air, charming backyard, 2 car garage, legal apartment, lovely details.
Small Colonial needs significant work. Pine floors, recent oil burner and new electric box. Bring your contractor and create your new home.
Helen Macdonald
Carl Feldman
New Price! $199,000
Open & bright third floor unit with high ceilings, hardwoods, a/c, in unit laundry and garage. Exterior work to be professionally completed at present owners’ expense.
Betsy Walsh
New Listing! $275,000
Senior living at its finest. Beautifully maintained grounds. Spacious, newly painted/carpeted 2 bed, 2 bath with all appliances included. Parking garage and amenities covered by monthly fee.
Linda Mittleman
New Listing! $449,000
Historic gem off Benefit St. South-facing fireplaced living room with built-in bookcases. Large 1st floor master/ family room, laundry. Updated kitchen. Fenced yard, excellent parking. Great location.
Sue Erkkinen
New Price! $369,000
Mary A. Doyle house. Charming 1907 Victorian 10 room house with original details. Hardwoods, high ceilings, vintage lighting, wrap around porches. Garage, off street parking. Pleasant garden.
Kathryn Lawrence
New Price! $729,000
Gracious center hall Colonial on prestigious Freeman Pkwy. Living room, family room with shared fireplace, formal dining room, spacious Master Suite w/walk-in closet. A gardener’s dream!
Sarah Collins/ Daniel Byrnes
COLEMANREALTORS.COM providence 401.274.3636
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contents AUGUst 2015
CHOOSE A BOUTIQUE REAL ESTATE AGENCY WITH BIG RESULTS
New list 162 4TH STREET #2 Light filled 2nd floor condo steps from Hope Village shops and restaurants. Unfinished attic for possible expansion, private entrance and balcony plus 2 car garage. Taxes do no reflect homestead exemption. $184,900 Karen Miller
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New list
discover the history of the Jeremiah dexter house and others around town
This Month
91-93 LARCH STREET Spacious light filled legal 2 family with 2nd/3d floor townhouse style. Hardwoods, new windows, porches. Parklike oversized yard garage. Bring your special touch to make it your home. $365,000 Gail Jenard
New list 2 EAST STREET Great location central to Brown, Wickenden and Wayland. Beautiful 1900 Victorian, 3 family with newer roof, windows & exterior paint. Historic details. Apartments maintained steady rents for years. $445,000 Karen Miller
peNdiNg 31-33 BLODGETT AVENUE, PAWTUCKET Impeccably maintained spacious two family with nothing left to do but move in. Perfect owner occupant. New heating systems, newer roof, insulated windows, fenced yard. Won’t last. $279,000 Karen Miller
19 | links to the past Exploring lesser known and iconic historical sites around town 24 | east(ern) side Wisdom Bettering your body and mind with alternative practices
Every Month 4 | Editorial/Letters
peNdiNg
peNdiNg
154 CHAPEL STREET, LINCOLN Legal 3 family, with the look of a single family. Be an investor or owner occupied. Beautiful units, old world charm. Stunning fenced yard with large side yard. Garage parking. Truly spectacular! $285,000 Aleen Weiss
1016 HOPE STREET Spacious 2 family overlooking Lippitt Park with oversized 2nd & 3rd 5 bedroom townhouse apartment. Walk to all the Summit and Blackstone neighborhoods. Needs TLC but well worth it! $369,000 Karen Miller
peNdiNg
peNdiNg
Community Reviewing Providence Noir and celebrating local authors 7 | News 10 | In the Know 13 | Neighborhood News
Close to Home How College Visions is making college dreams a reality for area youth 27 | On the Market 28 | Education 31 | East of Elmgrove
30 LAUREL AVENUE Currently under construction. Now is the time to chose your colors and decor. Beautiful open floor plan. 5 beds, 3.5 baths, wood floors, full kitchen/family room, living and dining rooms. Two car garage, backyard space. $625,000 Aleen Weiss
On the Town Trying bold new flavors downtown 33 | Flavor of the Month 35 | On The Menu 36
| Rhody Bites
39
| Calendar
Photography by Mike Braca
HAlso licensed in MA
54 | Making a better community with the Mount Hope Neighborhood Association
On the Cover:
The Fleur de Lys Studio on Thomas Street. Photographed by Mike Braca. www.facebook.com/EastSideMonthly
Assisting Buyers, sellers & renters Aleen WeissH Karen MillerH
The East Sider
405 GROTTO AVE, PAWTUCKET “Don’t Judge a Book By Its Cover.” Perfect quote to describe this beautiful family home. Exterior needs TLC, but interior painting, hardwoods, kitchen, baths, electrial, heat, hot water, all updated. Subject to approval of Probate Court. No FHA. $165,500 Gail Jenard
Jon WeissHF Howard Weiss Claire sennott gail Jenard
Flicensed ri environmental lead inspector 0065
785 Hope Street providence, ri 401-272-6161 SpitzweiSS.com
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August 2015 East Side Monthly
3
Editorial
EST 1975
East Side
Time for Our Local Businesses to Play Ball The recently concluded
General Assembly session surprised most of us with its consensus as it focused primarily on the need to create jobs and kick start a still sputtering Rhode Island economy. But with its abrupt closure, it left a couple of critical issues on the table suggesting things are not all peaches and cream in the House that Mattiello Built. Already the fissures between the Speaker and Senate President Paiva-Weed, not to mention the governor, have gone public, casting some doubt on whether there will indeed be a second session before next January. The two key unresolved issues are the proposals to institute tolls to fund much needed bridge repairs and determining if there is a financially appropriate landing spot for the PawSox. For our part, we’re concerned with what appears to be a growing power struggle between our city and the state. It took a proposal by the Senate that would have provided for a 20-year TSA for the I-195 land to finally produce some movement from the City Council on the issue. The two sides will meet somewhere in the middle, but score one
for the State on that one. On the other hand, Mayor Elorza was able to help galvanize enough statewide support to cause the withdrawal of a legislative bill that would have hampered municipalities from redeploying their fire departments to avoid ruinous overtime charges. The bridge situation seems to us a no-brainer. Our bridges are the worst in the country. They have to be fixed as soon as possible and levying taxes on those who use the bridges the most strikes us as a logical way to proceed (as do the majority of our states). As for the PawSox, the owners are starting their “listening tour” and have already said the initial (and patently ridiculous) proposal is off the table. But one major voice that seems to be missing in the discussion is from the business community in Providence. One of the reasons Pawtucket has been successful over the years is that companies, many of them closer to Pawtucket than Providence, have stepped up to buy corporate sponsorships and provide inexpensive (or even free) tickets to their employees and customers.
To date, the only passionate voices speaking in support of keeping the PawSox in Rhode Island have come from Pawtucket. Is there any significant local corporate interest for the Providence project? If so, it’s been pretty quiet. Compare this to the business communities in the places like Charlotte, Durham and even Portland. The loss of Jim Skeffington is certainly the major reason for this. The economic infeasibility of the initial offer is a second. But let’s move wisely and quickly on this issue. Our guess is the numbers to rehab McCoy are about to become significantly more realistic. Our guess is that other Providence sites may suddenly become more desirable and appropriate than first thought. Our guess is that any plan going forward will probably have to include a significant public/private revenue sharing component. But what we also need to hear is whether there is anything that our local business community is willing to significantly support. The first pitch was thrown out and dropped. It’s time to get serious and see whether there’s any interest in playing ball.
MONTHLY
1070 Main Street, Suite 302 Pawtucket RI 02860 tel: 305-3391 | fax: 305-3392 esm@providenceonline.com www.eastsidemonthly.com • @EastSideMonthly
Publishers Barry Fain Richard Fleischer John Howell
Media Director Jeanette St. Pierre @JeanetteSTP
Executive Editor Barry Fain
City Editor Steve Triedman
Creative Director Julie Tremaine @JulieTremaine
Managing Editor Grace Lentini @Gracie_NomNom
Digital Editor Tony Pacitti @TonyPacitti
Media Coordinator Ali McGowan @AliMMcGowan
Art Director Meghan H. Follett
Advertising Design Director Layheang Meas
Assistant Art Director Veatsna Sok
Graphic Designer Jason Lee
Account Managers Shelley Cavoli: Shelley@ProvidenceOnline.com Louann DiMuccio-Darwich: Louann@ProvidenceOnline.com Ann Gallagher: Ann@ProvidenceOnline.com Kristine Mangan: Kristine@ProvidenceOnline.com Dan Schwartz: DanS@ProvidenceOnline.com Elizabeth Riel: Liz@ProvidenceOnline.com Kimberly Tingle: Kim@ProvidenceOnline.com Stephanie Oster Wilmarth: Stephanie@ProvidenceOnline.com
Letters An Historic Success To the Editor: On behalf of the staff and trustees of the Providence Preservation Society, I would like to extend our sincere thanks for East Side Monthly’s neighborhood walking tours sponsorship. Your support is key to the success of PPS events like the Festival of Historic Houses. This year it was an overwhelming success, with more than 750 attendees and almost $25,000 in tickets sold for Saturday’s tour of homes, the best numbers in recent memory. Brent Runyon Executive Director Remembering Jackie Brookner To the Editor: I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed your article last month on the passing of Jackie Weinstein Brookner [“Remebering an East Side-Born Eco Star,” July 2015]. We grew up near her family and I can remember how impressed I was with the creative foot sculpture project she produced. It brings
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East Side Monthly August 2015
back wonderful memories of a very talented artist. Thank you for sharing. Pearl Nathan Editor’s Note: Pearl Nathan is a longtime resident of the East Side who now lives at Tockwotton and will be celebrating her 102nd birthday this month. To the Editor: The story you ran last month on Jackie Weinstein Brookner was sent to me in New York. It was wonderful. Thank you for it. It was great to read about how Jackie, Joey and I went out into the world to find our fortunes. Amazing that we lived just blocks from each other on the East Side growing up and ended up just blocks from each other in lower Manhattan! It is very hard to see Jackie go. At lunch one day, I did get to tell her I loved her. Again, I’m so thankful for your article about her. The photos were great to see too. Robin Green New York City
A Response to Barbara Ruttenberg and Dian Reynolds’ July 2015 Letter to the Editor: Thank you Barbara and Dian for your past support of the Cable Car Cinema. In the spring of 2013, we undertook a crowd funded Kickstarter campaign to upgrade our projection and audio equipment. In June of that year we installed it, which has greatly enhanced the audio/visual presentation at the theater – all done because our community rallied to the cause. Unfortunately, we did not have the additional funds to provide closed captioning and assistive listening devices. It is very expensive but we are looking into it. That said, for clarification, the money we received and will continue to receive from the Rhode Island Foundation is not for the Cable Car Cinema. It was given to us, personally, to pursue a project we are calling the Providence Cinematheque, which is another entity entirely. Daniel Kamil Owner, Cable Car Cinema
Contributing Photographers Hilary Block Mike Braca Michael Cevoli Stacey Doyle
Contributing Illustrators Ashley MacLure Lia Marcoux
Contributing Writers Erin Balsa Alastair Cairns Michael Clark Mary K. Connor Jill Davidson Mike Fink
Don Fowler Wendy Grossman Nancy Kirsch Stephanie Obodda Elizabeth Rau Dan Schwartz
Classified Advertising Sue Howarth Interns Charlotte Abotsi Rebecca Bendheim Loren Dowd Jenna Massoud
Jack Nicholson Miranda Richard Nicolas Staab Cissy Yu
Calendar announcements and news releases should be submitted by the 1st of the preceding month. We reserve the right to omit and edit items. Letters to the editor are welcome. We will not print unsigned letters without exceptional circumstances. East Side Monthly is not responsible for typographical errors. Corrections will be run at discretion of editor. Copyright ©2015 by East Side Monthly. All rights reserved.
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Community East Side Stories | neighborhood news & notes
East Side News
Nathan Bishop Resolved its Graduation Issues As middle school classes grow, logistics become challenging By Barry Fain
Photography by Tony Pacitti
Despite reports
to the contrary, Nathan Bishop did in fact hold its graduation ceremonies in June, and apparently all went well. Here’s how things got confusing. Initially, it was reported on GoLocalProv. com that the school was planning to replace traditional graduation ceremonies with what was to be called a “Celebration Day.” All eighth graders who achieved agreed upon benchmarks for academic, social and behavioral performance would be invited to this new cookout and activities day, which would replace the traditional graduation event. The problem was that almost a third of the class failed to meet the standards and hence were sent a letter telling their parents that while their children would be moving on to high school next year, they would not be part of the celebration. Nathan Bishop principal Kimberly Luca was quite frank in admitting that there was probably a better way to communicate her new plan, which met with almost immediate pushback from at least some of the parents. “Though our intentions were good, clearly it would have been much wiser to have gotten more parental input first before we went public with our proposal. And it’s now also clear to us that graduation is an important rite of passage for many families.” Unfortunately the perception painted in the GoLocalProv report implied the reasons were behavioral in nature. “I can understand why East Side residents, after seeing that over $35 million was spent to refocus and redesign the old school, were concerned that things were slipping back to where they had been [before the 2009 reopening],” said Luca. “I’m happy to report this is definitely not the case. Attendance levels rose to 92% this year and our achievement test results have improved substantially.” Christina O’Reilly, Director of Communications for Providence Public Schools, explained the reality of the current middle school numbers in Providence. “We
are currently in the midst of a bulge in the number of students entering middle schools throughout the city. Regulations require that middle schools fill their space with children from the immediate neighborhood first… which the School Department defines as families living within 1.5 miles of the school,” he explains. “Here at Bishop, the current percentage of neighborhood children that fall within that definition constitutes only 28% of the school, which requires busing to fill the school. That said, we are committed to ensuring all our middle school students are receiving the kind of education that will prepare them for their next educational level be it at Classical, Hope, vocational or any other city high school.” She was particularly excited about a new program that will be starting in September in both Mount Pleasant and Hope High Schools. Called Opportunity by Design, it is funded by an innovative three year, $3 million Carnegie Corporation of New York grant, and will be aimed at students interested in having more of a say in their education. The number of students would be limited to 100 per class in each school. The hope is by creating small classes in a blended learning environment and accessing state of the art technology, superior results can be achieved for children prepared to make the commitment. O’Reilly stated that of the 200 available spots, 170 are already filled for the new program that will begin this fall. But now that graduation 2015 is behind them, the administrators at all the middle schools, not just Bishop, are going to have to deal with a citywide problem of an increasing number of middle schoolers that is putting pressure on the limited amount of available space within the schools themselves. It is a problem Luca had hoped to alleviate at Bishop. “Given the growing class sizes, we won’t be able to offer two tickets per student for the graduations much longer and still hold it within the school.
Nathan Bishop Middle School
Additionally, graduations are expensive for many parents and unfortunately can become competitions to see who’s wearing what or who got the biggest bouquet,” explained Luca. “Going forward it would appear we have two choices. Either look for larger venues outside of the school to hold the event or come up with another way to celebrate the passage out of middle school into high school.” Clearly some lessons have been learned. But the East Side can be a little more comfortable that Principal Luca and her staff seem to have things under control. We spoke to several parents who expressed their confidence in the direction things seem to be going. While there is a wish that there were more resources available for their children – specifically there was a consensus that there should be more AP courses at Bishop – the mood at the school remains positive. Perhaps City Councilman Sam Zurier, whose son graduated from Classical this year, said it best. “There
is a difference between a stumble and a fall. Nathan Bishop has a number of wonderful assets, a very capable facility, an enthusiastic PTO, a strong network of parents. I get the sense that the parents want to preserve that.” And so too does Principal Luca. “I’ve been doing this for a long time and I love my job. I’ve visited most of the schools in Providence and understand that middle schools remain one of the last opportunities for the constructive nurturing of our children,” Luca explains. “The letters that were sent to those students who fell short of meeting the requirements the parents and we had agreed to, were told in detail where the deficiencies were in hopes of producing improvement in the future. I remain committed to the need to teach all kids to be academically, socially and emotionally prepared to move forward as they approach high school. Come in and check any of our classes. It’s what we do here at Nathan Bishop every day.”
August 2015 East Side Monthly
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Community East Side News
continued...
Little Rhody on the Big Screen
Providence Tells its Stories
the Rhode island international Film Festival celebrates its 19th year
Providence Community Library selected to participate in national StoryCorps project
By Nicolas Staab
By Miranda Richard
When it comes to filmmaking, Rhode Island never fails to surprise and delight. This summer (cue the movie trailer voice-over) our little state celebrates the 19th year of the RI International Film Festival (RIIFF). This six-day event showcased 253 cinematic works last year, with screenings all across the state. The RIIFF sets itself apart from other independent film festivals because of its broad focus, accepting nearly every genre of cinema, including documentaries, animation, drama and short films. This year is expected to include an extended repertoire of events, such as a curated musical competition, extended
“Our stories unite us,” tours and a StyleWeek component. The RIIFF is the largest public film festival in New England and is a qualifying event for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences – the Oscars – in narrative and documentary short films. Every year RIIFF attracts more than 5,000 film submissions from around the globe, usually ending with over 250 selected films to be shown. There will also be an Opening Night Gala Soirée at PPAC, with screenings focused on the “Art of the Short Film.” $50-$350. August 4-9. www.film-festival.org
is the idea behind StoryCorps, a national effort to record the oral histories of a diverse selection of Americans and share them on NPR. Luckily for Rhode Islanders, Providence Community Library (PCL) is in the business of storytelling, and this year, PCL is one of only ten libraries in the country to be selected for the StoryCorps @ your library grant, which awards winning libraries $2,500 to fund a local community documentation project based on the StoryCorps model. “Storytelling and oral histories are a powerful way to learn about differences and similarities in human experience, to develop empathy and understanding,
and this opportunity allows us to make time to listen,” says Ed Graves, Rochambeau Regional Librarian. All nine branches of the library will participate in the interview process, and the Fox Point and Rochambeau locations will hold recording sessions from August 14-September 3 and September 4-24, respectively. There will be a special listening party on August 6 at Rochambeau Library, which will offer the public the opportunity to learn about and sign up to participate in StoryCorps @ your library. A selection of those stories will be broadcast on Rhode Island Public Radio later this year. www.provcomlib.org
Once More Onto the Boards the last round of Artboards go up in Providence and Central Falls By Mary K. Connor Two new installations for Artboards RI – a yearlong project that began last October and has brought original works by local artists to “junior” billboards in urban communities in Providence and Central Falls – went up at the end of June and will remain in place through September. The art installation at 800 Charles Street, by Angel Quinonez, is titled Vincent van Goya. “Van Gogh and Warhol are favorites of mine,” says Quinonez when asked about the painting. “I was thinking about it, ‘How do I own that?’ And it just came to me, as most of my work does.” Quinonez, who grew up in Providence and Central Falls, is a 1991 graduate of Hope High School and a 2001 graduate of Brown University. An artist, sculptor and tattoo artist, Quinonez works with many different mediums and is perhaps best known for his large-scale public art projects. Providence residents might also 8
East Side Monthly August 2015
recognize his commissioned images – some reminiscent of Andy Warhol – gracing the likes of the Cuban Revolution and Bravo restaurants. Quinonez very much values Rhode Island’s art community – “Rhode Island is full of kooky artists,” he says, in a good way, on a YouTube video featuring many of his larger sculptures – and has worked to bring that ethos to Providence area youth, through AS220’s Broad Street Studios programs and as an art instructor at the Rhode Island Training School. He does his own work out of studios in Providence and on Martha’s Vineyard. Angel Quinonez’s Vincent van Goya billboard is sponsored by the Providence Tourism Council. The second newly installed billboard can be seen at 993 N. Main Street in Providence. Titled Plaid and Blue, the work is by the late Alfred V. De Credico, a much loved artist and highly regarded
Professor of Foundation Studies Drawing who taught at RISD for many years. Alfred De Credico graduated from RISD in 1966. He died in 2009. De Credico’s work has been shown in galleries and museums across the country, from New York City to Houston, and across the globe, from Austria to Australia. De Credico was a Visiting Lecturer and a Visiting Artist at many colleges and universities, including Harvard, Brown, Carnegie Mellon and Skidmore, to name just a few. That ArtBoards RI chose to feature one of Alfred De Credico’s drawings speaks to his longstanding importance to the Providence art community. Alfred De Credico’s son, Cesare, chose his father’s drawing, Plaid and Blue, for inclusion in the ArtBoards project. “It fit well, visually. I felt it worked.” Cesare is himself an artist whose work was previously featured on a billboard as part of Artboards RI. “If my father
were still alive today,” says Cesare, “I am sure he would feel the same way I do about this project – that it is great to be able to introduce art to the community in this way.” Alfred De Credico’s Plaid and Blue billboard was sponsored by Marc Greenfield, Esquire. Providence artist Ruth Dealy, the driving force behind ArtBoards RI, hopes the project achieves its goals of generating interest in the arts within urban communities and encouraging recognition of the arts as a vital community resource, and that the concept takes hold and is extended on a more permanent basis. She thanks the sponsors of the project – Lamar Advertising, AS220, Cornish Associates, Rhode Island School of Design, the Providence Tourism Council and Marc Greenfield, Esquire – and the many volunteers who made it happen.
Community East Side News continued...
Providence Done Darkly Fifteen authors with local connections provide the noir
Experience. Integrity. Results.
By Barry Fain
A little over a decade ago, the wildly successful Noir series of urban fiction was born in Brooklyn. Its “secret sauce” was to take a group of writers who knew a particular city and let them dissect it neighborhood by neighborhood with original noir tales. Noir, lest you’ve forgotten, is typified by those classic black and white films from the ‘40s that concocted wonderfully intricate crime stories, complete with hard-boiled but cynical protagonists and served up heaping portions of moral ambiguity on the side. Published by Akashic Books, the series has grown geometrically and has now noir-ed 70 cities from Addis Ababa to Zagreb internationally and domestically from Boston to San Francisco with another 20 cities in the works. The question isn’t why the publishers picked Providence, but rather why it took so long. To those of us long timers here, we might argue there aren’t many cities more noir-ish than ours. Fox Point resident and bestselling novelist Ann Hood (The Knitting Circle) was chosen to edit Providence Noir and selected 14 writers, virtually all with some sort of relationship to Rhode Island and in particular our capital city. And an impressive cadre they are. It starts with Hood herself, who offers a very ‘40s-ish piece of fiction entitled appropriately Under the Shepard Clock that almost screams Barbara Stanwyck and Fred MacMurray. Among the more well known contributors is Bruce DeSilva, a former ProJo reporter who now boasts three successful crime novels, all of which take place often in the dingy alleys and smoke-filled back rooms of Providence. What I loved about his piece was how a skilled news reporter was able to coax a reluctant subject into saying just enough to… well you’ll have to read it for yourself. Then there’s The New York Times bestselling novelist Luanne Rice, who has used Newport for a setting for one of her books. Here she takes us into Fox Point’s tightly knit Portuguese community, but perhaps not exactly where you might expect. Others adding to the noir include two nationally
known Rhode Island residents, Robert Leuci (whose life as an undercover detective was chronicled in the movie Prince of the City and has since written half a dozen crime novels himself) and Thomas Cobb (whose novel Crazy Heart was adapted into an Academy Award winning film). The settings for the stories take place all over Providence. And while perhaps easily identifiable to us locals, they come with a map for out-oftowners. Cobb’s clever short story, for example, takes place in Providence but at the Triggs Memorial Golf Course. The obvious question is what motivated the 15 established authors here to delve deep into their repressed gothic selves to go noir. In some cases it would appear to be just for the fun of it. Peter Farrelly of There’s Something About Mary and Dumb or Dumber fame, though a Cumberland boy himself, clearly enjoyed painting a picture of a rather unusual highborn individual named Roger Tenpenny. At 21 he inherited a trust fund that his bankers said, “could support the lives of 100 ne’er-do-wells.” But by the time he reached his 30s and after four divorces, all of the money was back in circulation. The Farrelly wit is up there right in the first paragraphs. When his toney friends ask him what could
have ever possessed him to consider a fourth marriage after three painful and expensive strikeouts, Tenpenny quips, “Well I missed the cheating.” At a recent book signing at the Brown Bookstore, Hood was holding court accompanied by three of the other authors. As they discussed their work, it was clear the three love the short story and use their Providence roots as launching pads for tales that twist fancifully and unexpectedly for us to enjoy. Marie Myung-OK Lee now teaches at Columbia. But before that, she had taught creative writing for ten years at Brown. So when she describes the lives of four Brown graduate students and the intricate relationships that develop among them, there’s a credibility that keeps us engaged until a somewhat abrupt ending. And then there’s Hester Kaplan who has made a career writing about beautifully rendered adult relationships. An East Side resident and accomplished wordsmith, who counts the prestigious Flannery O’Connor Award for Short Fiction among her successes, she paints a much edgier relationship between father and son that leads us deep into the waters of ambiguity. My personal favorite was from Amity Gaige, a writer with several books to her credit including Schroder, a New York Times notable book from 2013, who offered her reasons for wanting to be part of the noir project. While acknowledging the subject matter was very much out of her comfort zone, it allowed her to try something new and just let it fly. And fly it does. Her story ends with a raw and unexpected “payback” I never saw coming as a hard-working student from Woonsocket comes to grips with a Brown professor who didn’t do right by her. In short, this is a perfect summer read. It’s Providence with an edge, written by 15 writers who know how to shape stories that lead us down unexpected paths of a city that we love. Out of towners may see it as make believe tales of suspense. To most of us, it’s just home.
Call Gerri Schiffman (401) 474-3733 #1 Agent at Residential Properties Ltd. Since 1996
(401) 474-3733 gerri@residentialproperties.com
gerrischiffman.com residentialproperties.com
August 2015 East Side Monthly
9
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Sitting on over an acre, private & tranquil, this immaculate Colonial features an open floor plan, hardwoods, new kitchen, huge master suite, 3 beds, 2.1 baths, central a/c, new windows , finished basement & 2 car garage. 10 Minutes to East Side, Highway & Attleboro Commuter Rail. Don’t miss out!
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203 South Main Street | Providence, RI 401-751-8100 • providence.office@raveis.com 10
East Side Monthly August 2015
Community In the Know by Barry Fain
Saying Adieu to the Rue Add our voice to the great chorus of “we’ll miss you”s as word spreads about owner Deb Norman’s decision to close one of the East Side’s oldest and most iconic restaurants, Rue de L’espoir. Started almost four decades ago, the Rue seamlessly evolved with the times but never ignored the important things during the transitions, like those legendary warm breads by the basket. Deb was one of the first of successful female restauranteurs in the state, partially because having started as a waitress, then as a chef as she worked her way up, she was a stickler for details. As she prospered, she never forgot the causes that mattered to her; women’s rights, AIDS issues, gender equality, even politics. Some of our finest recollections were the incredible parties she held at the Rue in support of the projects of her wife Dr. Annie DeGroot, especially the AIDS center in Mali as well as the free clinic in Olneyville. But here at the paper there are two other things we’ll never forget. One is that she was one of our very first advertisers when we started East Side Monthly 40 years ago and has remained a loyal friend, supporter and even an occasional critic over the years. Second, but equally important, she was the awesome first baseman on our championship co-ed softball team that won it all in the advertising league. Whatever she chose to do over the years, she knew how to play the game, and play it well. Good luck in whatever’s next, Deb.
Thayer Street Tries Something New Apparently the Thayer Street District Management Authority (TSDMA) will be leasing the Brownowned parking lot across from the post office. Their plan is to use the spots for valet parking for restaurants and retailers. It works on the Hill, why not on the East Side? Then there’s the arrival of 257 Thayer with its 95 suite apartments, 78 heated underground parking spaces, a landscaped courtyard with fire pit and grilles, a clubhouse with hi-def TVs, you get the idea. But the best new arrival to the street from our vantage point will be coming to Olive Street near the Brown Bookstore next month. It’s a do-it-yourself bike shop where you can get equipment and do your repairs on the spot and on your own. Very cool.
Family Movie Night at Brown While we were disappointed to lose one our favorite East Side summer activities when the Brown summer theatre had to pass this year because of renovations, we are happy to say the school is offering a little something extra for local families as a partial makeup. They are inviting all their neighbors to come on over to the Granoff Center on Angell Street for free flicks, popcorn and other goodies. Just bring the kids, a blanket and enjoy this community freebie. The last movie of the series is Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory and it will be shown on Wednesday, August 19 (raindate on the 20th). For more info contact community@brown.edu or 863-3717. We’ll be the ones holding signs as cars drive by that read “Honka if you like Wonka.”
College Hill and the Black Community College Hill, the city’s oldest neighborhood, has a long and robust relationship with the area’s black community that extends back for centuries. Join Ray Rickman, Rhode Island’s best known expert on the subject, as he leads interested parties on a tour of the old neighborhood on Saturday, August 8 at 10am. The tour will begin at the RISD Auditorium, 17 Canal Walk, and will introduce participants to Providence born Black-Americans from the 19th and 20th century who left indelible marks on our society. You’ll learn about the fascinating lives of international opera diva Sissieretta Jones, Providence Art Club co-founder Edward Bannister and Harlem Renaissance author Rudolph Fisher among others. Tickets for the walk are $10 for adults or $5 for children under 12 with all monies going to support the Black Heritage Society. Sounds like an interesting way to kick off the long weekend.
Score one for the Good Guys It’s easy to sometimes get discouraged as one reads police log reports or Cheryl Simmons’ blog that aggregates the incidents for us, but every so often there’s good news in them as well. Recently Lt. Joe Donnelly, the new officer in charge of East Side policing, reported that one of his officers had apprehended a young man who had stolen a cash box from a Del’s lemonade vendor after a foot chase. Later it was discovered he was also responsible for another larceny at Luli Boutique on Hope Street. Congrats to all concerned. Always great when we can chalk one up for the good guys.
Give Your Kids the Chance to Experience Out of School Time at the YMCA
EAST SIDE W
NE
EAST SIDE
T LIS
T LIS
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NE
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EAST SIDE W
T LIS
NE
151 Benefit St $435,000
EAST SIDE ICE
PR
W NE
631 Angell St $789,000
400 Blackstone Blvd $989,000
EAST SIDE
BAYSIDE 401-245-2444
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CRANSTON 401-943-0444 2 Catalpa Rd $519,000
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NEWMAN 508-336-7103 PROVIDENCE YOUTH SERVICES 401-456-0604 SOUTH COUNTY 401-783-3900 WEST BAY 401-295-6501
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OAK HILL LD
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M A R K H A MProvidence’s + DeRE NT IS Serving EastMSide A R K H& A MWest + D e RSide, E N T I S associates a s s o c iHill ates Elmhurst, Edgewood and Oak
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2014
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August 2015 East Side Monthly
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Community Neighborhood News Neighborhood News is a space that East Side Monthly makes available to community organizations free of charge. The content does not necessarily reflect the views of the editors of this publication.
Gladys Potter Park Thursday, July 30, 5pm – Jen Romanat; Tuesday, August 11, 5pm – Rock-a-Baby Paterson Street Park Thursday, August 6, 5pm – Rhythm Room Drumming
Photo courtesy of Summit Neighborhood Association
Summit neighborhood Association Three Bands to Lead Music Festival This year’s music festival put on by the Summit Neighborhood Association will feature three rockin’ groups – the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, the And The Kids combo and the Torn Shorts duo. The annual extravaganza, which will include some lesser known musicians, will be held starting at 1pm Saturday, August 15 and the music is scheduled to go until 5pm. Besides the stage show, there will be a beer and wine garden for adults, plenty of activities especially for kids plus a wide range of food trucks, craft vendors and information booths. The Hope Street Farmers Market will be held in the morning, which adds to the merriment. The Dirty Dozen Brass Band is a traditional New Orleans jazz group that was formed in 1977 and has revolutionized the style by incorporating funk and bebop. In 1980, the group made its first recording as the Dirty Dozen Brass Band and its fame spread. Newport jazz promoter George Wein booked them on a European tour in 1984, they played with Dizzy Gillespie and Branford Marsalis and continued to make albums. The Dirty Dozen’s uniqueness is widely credited with sparking a resurgence of New Orleans’ brass band music, both in the city and nationwide. And The Kids is a trio from Northampton, MA, that formed after guitarist Hannah Mohan and drummer Rebecca Lasaponaro met Megan Miller in 2012, while all three were summer interns at the nearby Institute for the Musical Arts, which hosts rock camps for girls and women interested in music and the music business. The group has honed its music into a high-energy blend of bold guitars, rocksolid rhythm and vibrant, layered vocals. The Providence-based Torn Shorts duo, consisting of Chris Ardoin and Josh Grabert, grew from a solo project in 2010 to a quartet, then to a duo. The group, which won the 2013 WBRU Rock Hunt, has since found a unique way of blending indie, blues, folk and rock n’ roll into a genuine sound all their own.
Brown Street Park Saturday, July 25, 5:30-7:30pm – Ragged Company; Wednesday, August 12, 5:30-7:30pm – Jeff Byrd & Dirty Finch
SNA’s Music Festival promises fun for the whole family
No Parking Meters Anytime Soon On Hope Street Parking meters will not, repeat not, be coming soon, if ever, to the Hope Street commercial district. That was the message relayed by Pernilla Frazier, co-president of the Hope Street Merchants Association, to the regular June meeting of the Summit Neighborhood Association’s board of directors. She was reporting on a presentation by Providence Parking Administrator Leo Perrotta to the merchants group on the city’s plans to expand the use of parking meters. Frazier said Perrotta told the business owners that there were no plans in the immediate future of six months to two years for parking meters on Hope Street, and perhaps not at all. He said the Summit area is unique in the concentration of residential streets abutting the commercial area and the resulting problem of parking overflow is extremely complex. Perotta also said a solution might have to involve some sort of residential permits, and the city is not prepared to undertake that at this time, Frazier reported. Although the City says there is some evidence of stagnation of parking along the Hope Street business district, it is currently not worthy of being solved by the imposition of meters, Perotta said. If a survey shows that 85% of available parking spaces in an area are taken, the city tries to intervene with management by metered parking, but that concentration has not been demonstrated on Hope Street. The SNA board, which has not formulated a position regarding parking meters, promised Frazier to work closely with the merchants as the situation develops.
Residents Invited to Directors Meetings The SNA board of directors meets at 7pm on the third Monday of every month in the cafeteria of Summit Commons, 99 Hillside Ave. The sessions are open and neighborhood residents are encouraged to attend. Minutes of all board meetings are posted on the SNA website at www.sna.providence.ri.us under “Meetings and Agendas.” Contact us at Summit Neighborhood Association, PO Box 41092, Providence, RI 02940 or sna@sna.providence.ri.us. Phone 489-7078 –Kerry Kohring
Wayland Square Neighborhood Discussion Group at Books on the Square Wednesdays from 7-8:45pm, July 22 and August 26, Books on the Square, 471 Angell Street at Elmgrove, next to CVS. Free and open to all. Although no agenda or speakers had been set at press-time, the proposed baseball stadium for the Pawtucket Red Sox is likely to be a major topic at our July meeting. Summer Concert Series For a number of years, the City of Providence and local groups of neighbors have collaborated in a series of free public outdoor summer concerts at local parks. Here is a partial list of such concerts (subject, as always, to change) on the East Side for late July and August. Blackstone Field Thursday, August 20, 7pm – the Jazz Quintet of the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra’s Music School; Saturday, August 29, 7pm – Joe’s Backyard Band
Lippitt Park Saturday, August 15, 1-5pm – Summit Music Festival (various artists) Commercial Notes On July 1, Lila Delman properties moved out of their site on Wayland Avenue at Angell Street, between Wayland Manor and l’Artisan bakery. This will be the new home of Reliable Gold, formerly on Wayland and Medway Street. More Information Check our Yahoo! Group’s public message board (below) to stay abreast of current local events and issues. Or join the group to receive regular announcements by e-mail, including select notices of neighborhood meetings, civic affairs and cultural events. groups.yahoo.com/group/waylandsquare –David Kolsky
Blackstone Parks Conservancy Mainly Good News on the Boulevard By the end of June, after a dry spring, things were looking up on the Boulevard. A fresh mowing had left the grass looking greener and thicker than it had for some time and trees that had been nearly stripped bare in May by winter moth caterpillars were sending out new leaves. The Boulevard Park owed its improved appearance not only to the rain, but also to the Park Department’s (PD) mowing it somewhat higher than in the past. Though many homeowners and landscapers want lawns to look like putting greens, low mowing is harmful to the grass. Root length reflects the length of the grass, so to grow roots long enough to weather dry periods, it must be cut higher – three inches ideally. Honoring the science as much as its machines will allow, the PD is mowing to 2½ inches. As for the trees, on reconnaissance
August 2015 East Side Monthly
13
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East Side Monthly August 2015
Community Neighborhood News in early June, City Forester Doug Still and two BPC board members counted 126 that were severely damaged. Some were so altered that he had to jump out of the car to get a closer look in order to identify them. He would like to get these badly damaged trees sprayed next March, but there is no money for spraying in the PD budget. Once the forester receives cost estimates from private contractors, the Conservancy will attempt to raise the funds. The sight of new leaves is of course encouraging, but it is not cause for rejoicing. This emergency renewal depletes the trees’ reserves and multiple years of this can weaken them. Spraying can interfere with the moths’ regeneration, as neighboring Swan Point Cemetery has demonstrated. But while practical in a limited area it is impossible to do effectively in a woodland. The coastal greenway of which the Blackstone Park Conservation District (BPCD) is part was hit harder than any other part of Providence this year. Also in June, the Trolley Shelter Garden received a much-needed intervention by Swan Point’s chief horticulturist Kelly Perry and her crew. Swan Point, a longtime friend of the Boulevard, provided 200 gallons of water and set up the garden for the summer with thorough weeding and mulching. Upgrading the Conservation District Restoration of trails and habitat in the center section of the BPCD was expanded this spring with a second grant from the Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC). Terracing and planting of the gully running from the ridge of the plateau near Angell Street down toward River Road was designed and coordinated by BPC volunteers. The transformation of this slope and much of the plateau shows how volunteer organizations working with the City and environmental agencies can work with nature, instead of against it, to keep slopes from sliding into the river. Volunteer support and thoughtful engagement by PD and state employees in the CRMC and Department of Environmental Management (DEM) were all crucial to the projects’ success. Another partnership, this time with US Fish and Wildlife (USFW), is continuing to expand educational resources in the coastal woodland. A junior at SUNY in New York, Amanda
Tomasello, will host a weekly science table (Fridays 10:30-noon till the end of August) to engage visiting families on a wide range of science topics related to life in the woodland. “She can go with kids along the trail to look for birds and many other things,” says April Alix, Amanda’s supervisor and coordinator of the Providence Parks Urban Wildlife Refuge Partnership and the Rhode Island National Refuge Complex. There are many possibilities, including a pollinator walk, invasive species lessons and identifying trees. Events in August and Late July (Please check website for details) Jazz in the Blackstone Park at River Road opposite the Boathouse: August 20, 7pm – RI Philharmonic Jazz Quintet August 29, 7pm – Joe’s Backyard Band July 15, July 29, August 12 and August 26; 6pm – Concerts at the Blackstone Boulevard Trolley Shelter near Elmgrove Ave intersection Kindly send your East Side Marketplace receipts to: Blackstone Parks Conservancy, P.O. Box 603141, Providence, RI 02906. 270-3014, blackstoneparksconservancy.org, janeannpeterson@ gmail.com –Jane Peterson
Waterman Street Dog Park Projected to Open This Fall Begun more than two years ago by a group of East Side neighbors, the Waterman Street Dog Park is now projected to open this fall. The park received enthusiastic early support from the Partnership for Providence Parks, then led by Wendy Nilsson, and the Parks Department, then led by Bob McMahon. After Bob retired, Wendy was appointed to run the Parks Department. Under her leadership, the Parks Department has already begun work on the park. With help from more than 50 volunteers who came to community work days, Parks Department staff have cleared the trash, brambles and other debris that once clogged the site. In July, they will finish clearing the site and begin laying out trails. The Dog Park Association has nearly reached its $25,000 fundraising goal, thanks to generous support from neighbors, community groups, public institutions and local businesses.
The plan is for this park to not only support dogs (and their owners). The vision is for a park that provides a true community space for the whole neighborhood. It will be a beautiful site, and all will be welcome. We look forward to seeing you in the park for years to come! Waterman Street Dog Park Association. watermanstdogpark@gmail.org, www. watermanstdogpark.org –Samuel Bell
Fox Point neighborhood Association Events This Month FPNA Board Meeting, 7pm, Monday, August 10 at the Vartan Gregorian Bath House Community Room, 455 Wickenden Street. Parks to Relocate Gano Dog Park FPNA’s Board wishes to thank Wendy Nilsson, the new director of the Providence Department of Parks and Recreation for taking an active role in the selection process for the new location of the Gano Dog Park. The current location, which is on the Seekonk River adjacent to the muchused basketball courts, will be moved soon to make way for construction of the Blackstone Bikeway. Nilsson, who began meeting with the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) in June on the proposed extension of the bikeway, recently reviewed a Power Point presentation that is on FPNA’s website. The presentation, which was developed with the assistance of the Providence Department of Planning and Development, explored potential destinations and challenges along the bikeway. “[It] definitely helped me understand more of where the path goes once it leaves the park,“ she added. “We are with you,” she told FPNA. In the presentation, the best possible location for the dog park was deemed to be along the riverfront, adjacent to the Crook Point Bridge. “It sounds like everyone is for the area you already reviewed,” Nilsson noted. “We are checking with CRMC to find out what delay this might cause, but don’t foresee any other issues.” To review other recommendations along the greenway, go to www.fpna.net. Click on the .pdf icon at the bottom of the home page article, “Greenway Destinations and Challenges Presented.” The
Community Neighborhood News goal of the presentation, which was shown to governmental officials in October, was to create the best outcome for the entire greenway by looking at it as a whole. By the new dog park remaining along the bikeway, people would be able to go through the woods and cross Pitman Street to Witherby Park. On the other side of Witherby Park, is the proposed Waterman Dog Park, which will provide even more space for dogs. Neighborhood Crime Continues FPNA members have reported a rash of burglaries in the neighborhood this spring and summer. Most recently before deadline, a breaking and entry incident was reported on Transit Street over a weekend in late June. The resident, who was out of town, had several computers and watches stolen. The thieves reportedly broke into the residence by cutting a screen on a partially opened window in the back of the house. The police say that there have been a number of break-ins in Fox Point, especially with residents on vacations and Brown students being away. Police have urged residents to close ground floor windows at night, while keeping doors and cars locked. Residents also can sign up for a listserv, with Cheryl Simmons’ Crime Watch. Email cherylsimmons414@aol.com. Cheryl is not a police department employee, but volunteers as a community liaison, who works with them. The listserv has over 1,000 East Side residents on it, from Fox Point to Summit and all areas in between. There also is a map with incident locations posted on www.crimereports.com. FPNA Member Dies Suddenly FPNA’s Board was saddened in midJune to learn that member James Hadley, an architect partner at Hadley Crow Studio in Providence, died suddenly and unexpectedly of a heart attack in mid-June. “Jim had been working with Providence Preservation Society (PPS) and showed great interest in being more involved with FPNA and his neighborhood,” according to Daisy Schnepel, vice president of FPNA. “We all were looking forward to having him join the board and share his vast architectural experience with us.” Hadley had shown his enthusiasm to become more involved by
his thoughtful and professional review of the Cape Verdean Memorial Park plans in India Point Park, she added. He also had a strong interest in opposing the proposed Pawtucket Ball Park from being located on the Providence River “because of its many threats to our neighborhood,” Schnepel said. “I feel sorry that we had such an abbreviated chance to work with him. He will be sorely missed,” Schnepel continued. “Our hearts and condolences go out to his widow, Patricia Crow.” Hadley, who was a member of the American Institute of Architects, had won several awards in his career, including a New York State Preservation Award for the reconstruction of the Dick Cavett house in Montauk, New York, and the New York Landscape Conservancy’s Lucy G. Moses Award for restoration of the U.S. Post Office and Courthouse in Brooklyn, New York. Fox Point Neighborhood Association, P.O. Box 603177, Providence, RI 02906. 3298569, www.fpna.net, fpna@cox.net. –John Rousseau
College Hill neighborhood Association Plan Proposed to Improve Pedestrian Safety Around Schools At its recent July board meeting, CHNA invited the City’s chief traffic engineer, Leo Perrotta, to discuss the need for enhanced traffic signage around several important College Hill sites. In particular, needs for School Zone warning signs at Wheeler, Moses Brown, Lincoln and the Montessori School were discussed with representatives from several of the schools also in attendance. Maps prepared by CHNA president Josh Eisen were then given to Mr. Perrotta with recommendations of useful placements that would improve safety for the students. In addition, a request was made to add a crosswalk at the recently relocated bus stop on North Main Street in front of the University Heights shopping center. Mr. Perrotta took the information and promised to come back with his department’s plan to improve these potentially dangerous situations.
Lt. Joe Donnelly is New Commanding Officer for the East Side There’s a new top cop for College Hill, District 9. Lt. Joe Donnelly has taken over for Lt. Ryan and came to introduce himself at our July 6 board meeting. The lieutenant boasts over 24 years with the force, both in the regular and detective divisions. In a wide ranging discussion of the current situation on the East Side, he did acknowledge that Providence Police continue to work closely with Brown and RISD police to expand their reach. He noted that there has been an uptick in what he called “second story” crimes where ladders have been used to access houses as a way of bypassing alarm systems. Crime statistics, which he says are updated weekly at the City’s CommStat meetings, are about the same as last year, though he does concede in terms of larceny, the East Side remains a focal point for these kinds of crimes on a citywide basis. He urges anyone who observes unusual activity of any kind to call the police. He will be based at the 9th Precinct office at 250 Brook Street. The office number is 243-6991. Successful First Meeting of Group to Improve Prospect Terrace A crowd of over 50 residents came to a CHNA sponsored social/organizational meeting at Prospect Terrace mid-June and offered their suggestions as to improvements they would like to see for this iconic East Side site. A working group led by Sara Bradford, Rick Champagne and Barry Fain will be gathering more input, not the least of which are determining funding needs and the specifics of establishing of public/private Friends of Prospect Terrace subgroup. Their hope is to come back with specific plans after speaking to Parks Department head Wendy Nilsson over the next few weeks. Anyone who would like to join the working group is encouraged to call 751-7078. Here’s How to Get involved in CHNA For information about joining CHNA and getting involved at whatever level feels right for you, please check our website. College Hill Neighborhood Association, PO Box 2442, Providence, RI 02906. 633-5230, www.collegehillna.com, chna@collegehillna.com –Anthony Petrocchi, corresponding secretary
August 2015 East Side Monthly
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The The
Soul Soul
of of the the
CiTy CiTy A look into the properties that make the East Side a historic and modern gem By Nicolas Staab Photography by Mike Braca
Fleur de Lys Studios
M
y daily experience passing through the East Side is barreling down Angell Street for the millionth time in near free fall, pumping the brakes and squeezing the steering wheel before a halting stop at South Main Street – eyes forward, never taking the time to take in my surroundings. Yet every time I have family or friends visiting Providence, I always make time to show them around the neighborhood. The reasons are obvious: they are literally surrounded by preserved historic buildings. They’ll gawk and stare in wonder as we walk by the colonial houses on Benefit Street, taking pictures and posting them on Facebook. It’s during these moments I’m reminded how lucky I am to live in a city like Providence, particularly in a neighborhood where preservation is of prime importance.
Being a city person, it’s easy to take these things for granted. Making the time to walk around and observe the sights is necessary to appreciate the historicity and beauty of the East Side. Eventually you get to a point where you stop on the sidewalk, peering into one of the buildings, and ask yourself: what goes on in there, anyways? The stories of the people and events that took place before us are written all along these preserved places. You might know a few of them off the top of your head, but can’t put a finger on why they’re significant to Providence’s character and soul. Lucky for you, we decided to take a closer look into these places. From iconic Providence buildings, to lesser-known gems and even the remains lost to history, we’ve outlined a beginner’s guide to exploring the preserved sites of the East Side. August 2015 East Side Monthly
19
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East Side Monthly August 2015
John Brown House
of experience, encouraging members to work together and learn new skills.
Barker Playhouse
IconIc BuILdIngS
Photo (Top R) courtesy of the John Brown House
You’ve driven by these sites a hundred times – so what’s the big deal? The big deal is that they are cornerstones to the cultural ethos of Providence. Read on to learn more about these beloved and well-known sites. John Brown House, 52 Power Street If there’s one house on the East Side (preserved or otherwise) that emulates the wealth and power of Providence’s elite industrialists, the John Brown House easily takes the cake. Completed in 1788, this house was the first three-story Federal mansion built in Providence, and was described by John Quincy Adams as “the most magnificent and elegant private mansion I have ever seen on this continent.” The house was given to the Rhode Island Historical Society (RIHS) as a gift from John Nicholas Brown in 1941, and has since been preserved and maintained as a museum. Walking tours provide a first-hand view into many collections of Colonialera items and artwork, as well as a viewing of John Brown’s personal chariot, the oldest Americanmade vehicle in existence. “The house is an imposing testament to the wealth accumulated by the Brown family,” says Elyssa Tardif, Director of the Newell D. Goff Center for Education and Public Programs. Before John Nicholas Brown donated the House to RIHS, he paid tribute to his ancestor’s support and love for George Washington: “In 1936, the dining room was papered with panels that depict Washington’s inauguration in New York. Designed by Nancy McClelland and painted by Works Progress Administration artists, the Washington Wallpaper is one of only a handful of sets in the world,” says Tardif. Fleur de Lys Studios, 7 Thomas Street The Fleur de Lys Studio is a long-standing symbol of the arts community and culture in Providence. Completed in 1885, this building was designed by painter Sydney Burleigh and local architect Edmund R.
Wilson. The construction was largely a collaboration between the Art Workers Guild and local contractors, making the Fleur de Lys Studios an essential embodiment of the Arts and Crafts Movement, whereby artists strove to implement the visual arts in everyday life. The building immediately catches the eye as you scan over Thomas Street. The façade is imbedded with panels along the second story, each depicting the three visual arts as allegorical figures: sculpture on the left, painting in the middle and architecture on the right. Near the bay window is also a low-relief sculpted panel with a ribbon intertwined with three irises. The ribbon is inscribed with, “Thou Art the Iris, Fair among the Fairest.” In 1939, Mrs. Burleigh deeded the building to the Providence Art Club, which has continued to be used as artist’s studios today. The galleries are free and open to the public, so take a look for yourself and see the artwork inscribed throughout the walls and edifices of the building. Barker Playhouse, 400 Benefit Street Many structures throughout the East Side have changed ownership and been utilized differently over the years. According to “Providence: a Citywide Survey of Historic Resources,” the Barker Playhouse originally operated as St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church from 1840-1862. Its Greek Revival architectural design is the most evident of any church in Providence. After the St. Stephen’s congregation moved to another space on George Street in 1862, the structure was maintained by the RI Episcopal Convention and by the Church of the Savior. It wasn’t until 1932 that this building would be home to Barker Playhouse. Heralded as “America’s Oldest Little Theatre,” the Players group has continued to perform their amateur productions at the location. The theatre is a membership-only group. Once a member, you can partake in any and every stage of production, or simply watch and enjoy the live theatre. The Players welcome any level
HIddEn gEMS So now that you’re “in the know” about the more popular historic sites, let’s delve deeper into the hidden gems. They’re sprinkled along every street on the East Side and have been here since before the American Revolution. The Brick Schoolhouse, 24 Meeting Street The Brick Schoolhouse is truly an historic building, with particular significance to public education. In fact, it housed one of the first free public schools in the United States. As early as 1796, the first floor of the building was operated as a town schoolhouse, while the second floor was leased to Brown University for classroom instruction. During the Revolutionary War, the Schoolhouse stored ammunition for Colonial and French troops. It also had a laboratory for manufacturing cartridges at the time. In 1800, with efforts to establish a statewide public school system, the Schoolhouse
Explore Your Home’s History Curious about who lived in your house a hundred years ago? Researching your property’s history is now easier than ever (though it does require a bit of stick-toit-ness). The staff at the Providence City Archives can assist you in uncovering the historical facts about your home. The only items they say you need are a camera, magnifying glass, laptop and notepad. Sounds pretty easy, right? The City Archives website breaks down the process into nine steps. Take a look through and stop by their office in City Hall to get started. 25 Dorrance Street, Providence. 4217740, www.providenceri.com/archives
August 2015 East Side Monthly
21
Jeremiah Dexter House
became one of the first locations for free public education in the United States. From that point on, the Brick Schoolhouse would continue to be the location of several educational initiatives. These included the first separate school for children of color; a cooking school; and in 1908, the first “open air” school for children with tuberculosis. In 1960, the building was leased to the Providence Preservation Society, and continues to be their headquarters today. Jeremiah Dexter House, 957 North Main Street It might be difficult to imagine now, but much of the East Side was farmland back in the 18th and 19th centuries. The Jeremiah Dexter House is unique because it’s one of the only simple farmhouses to survive urban development, particularly with only minor alterations. Before the rapid urbanization of Providence during the early 20th century, the Dexter farmland extended east as far as Hope Street and north to about Fifth Street. The farm was utilized as General Comte de Rochambeau’s military encampment after returning from the celebrated battle of Yorktown. North Street, running directly along the Dexter property, was renamed Rochambeau Avenue in 1895 to pay tribute to their aid in leading American forces to victory. The Dexter family owned the property through several generations, up until deeding the property to Preserve Rhode Island in 1977. It has since served as the organization’s headquarters since 2001. Stephen Hopkins House, 15 Hopkins Street On paper, Stephen Hopkins is a contender for the hardest working patriot in Rhode Island. The man was a politician, businessman and rebellion organizer. He authored several pamphlets and essays criticizing the British Crown, pre-dating and influencing the ethos of the American Revolution. If Stephen Hopkins handed in his resume, this is what it would read: Governor of Rhode Island ten times; organizer for the burning of the H.M.S. Gaspee; responsible for the creation of Continental Navy in RI; Signer of the Declaration of Independence; Chief Justice of the Rhode Island Superior Court… the list just keeps going. To top it off, the Stephen Hopkins House was built in 1743 and is one of Providence’s oldest residencies. Since being built, the house has been moved several times, but settled at its current address in
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East Side Monthly August 2015
1927. It has been under the ownership of the National Society of Colonial Dames of America ever since.
LoST To HISTorY Before historic preservation became the religion of Providence, a few of our most cherished sites were torn down. The remains of them can still be seen today, and the stories last forever. The Dexter Asylum, now Brown’s Athletic Complex Ebenezer Knight Dexter, a successful businessman and member of the Providence aristocracy, had a deep compassion for the poor and disenfranchised. Before his death in 1824, Dexter served on the town committee for poor relief and was appointed as U.S. Marshall for the State of Rhode Island. Gaining much of his wealth from mercantile trade at the turn of 19th century, Dexter owned 40-acres of farm land on Providence’s East Side, which he gave to the City after his death to aid the poor. Erected four years after his passing, the Dexter Asylum was operated as a “poor farm” from 1828 until its closing in the 1950s. Here, the unemployed poor could stay for a period of six months, being given room and board in exchange for working the vegetable or dairy farm. Though it sounds altruistic and good-hearted, there are a few disturbing realities about the asylum, such as its strict rules and housing a jail for “maniacs.” “The most unusual feature of the asylum was the massive stone wall that encircled the property,” says Paul Campbell, Archivist for the City of Providence. “Much of the wall, which runs along Hope, Angel, Lloyd and Arlington Streets, still exists today,” he says. Apparently, Dexter wrote into his will very specific instructions to build a massive wall around the property, eight feet high and three feet thick. It took eight years to build. Kind of odd, right? Sabin Tavern, corner of S. Main Street and Planet Street A small monument stands in commemoration of the Sabin Tavern on South Main Street. The tavern is romanticized as the meeting spot where several patriots (including John Brown and Stephen Hopkins) plotted the attack on the H.M.S. Gaspee – the first major act of violent rebellion against the British Crown. Though the burning of the Gaspee is often overshadowed by lesser acts (cough, Boston Tea
Making Mobile App History Walking tours and exploring historic sites can be time consuming. You want your dosage of Providence know-how to be easily accessible and readily digestible – we get it. Allow us to introduce FACADeS, a mobile app project headed by Brown University Professor Dietrich Neumann. Standing for Facts About Campus Architecture Design Environment and Space, the app lists over 130 properties on College Hill, each with photographs and descriptions on their architectural histories. There’s a text-to-speech function that allows you to listen to the summaries while observing from outside. FACADeS can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play Store for free. So whip out your smart phone and get in the know.
Party, cough), the attack undoubtedly gave spark to the beginning of the American Revolution. The monument standing today is inscribed with the following address: “Sons of Liberty – Upon this corner stood the Sabin Tavern in which on the evening of June 9th in 1772 the party met and organized to destroy H.M.S. Schooner Gaspee in the destruction of which was shed the first blood of the American Revolution.”
Providence is one of the few cities that make historic preservation their bread and butter. The urban history of the East Side (and beyond) are easily accessible to all; do yourself a favor and look into it. The next time you’re cruising down Angell Street (or, God forbid, walking up the hill on a hot summer day), stop and take ten. Most of these sites are open to public viewing and are free or of little cost to explore. Use the FACADES app mentioned to get a quick overview of the places you’d like to see. If you live on the East Side, look into the history of your property by visiting the Providence City Archives website. At the very least, you’ll now be able to show off your knowledge to your friends and family the next time they visit.
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August 2015 East Side Monthly
23
Jala Studio: Yoga & Art
Om is Where the Heart Is Eastern wisdom and Western tradition merge for midful living on the East Side By Courtney Denelle Photo by Amy Amerantes
Eastern traditions – characterized by the broad term mindfulness – have everyone from Anderson Cooper to Lady Gaga boasting their powerful benefits. Indeed, mindfulness has gained traction within popular culture as of late. However, the marriage of Eastern-based traditions with Western modalities has been steadily moving to the forefront of the professional mental health community for almost three decades as an innovative and proactive therapy. We’ve put together a list of local places to put you on the path to mindfulness. Whether it’s your mind, body or spirit you’d like to focus on, there’s a peaceful place right around the corner. Building Physical, Emotional and Mental Strength Through Yoga The East Side offers a veritable treasure trove of locations and organizations to pursue well-worn methods that build the foundation for radiant health and wellbeing. “The sense of interconnection is unshakable here,” says Bristol Maryott, owner of Jala Studio: Yoga & Art over on South Main Street. “People know one another, and when I run into students around town, I’m reminded that I’m teaching my neighbors. It’s a true spirit of community in action.” Jala Studio champions warmth and inclusivity as “Everyone’s Yoga Studio.” As the only yoga school in Providence to offer classes in the Ashtanga and Jivamukti traditions, the curriculum at Jala Studio synthesizes and integrates the traditional ashram-style structure of Mysore Ashtanga with the more accessible Jivamukti approach. “By now, most people have been told to practice yoga,” says Maryott. “It’s often the physical aspect of the practice that can spark their interest. Any yoga is great, physically – there’s nothing wrong
24
East Side Monthly August 2015
with having a great butt,” she says with laugh. “But the most powerful effects exceed physical goals. Overall well being means growing strength and flexibility in mental and emotional health, as well as physical.” For Maryott, the willingness to take time to nourish mind, body and spirit is substantial: “When we’re exhausted, we take shortcuts. We always feel like we should be doing more. But in skipping self-care, we restrict our ability to cope, which limits our ability to participate in the world.”
Living in the Moment Through Mindfulness Is the modern popularity of mindfulness an indication of a healing culture? Or is it only an indication of how many are mentally and emotionally suffering? There seems to be a widening interest in shifting to a more holistic healing culture, specifically on the East Side. Mindfulness practices act as a vehicle in shifting awareness to the present moment, as opposed to filtering experience through a torrent of conditioned responses. This makes mindfulness a tremendously helpful application in navigating strong emotional reactions. Up the hill on Waterman Street, The Mindful Living Center offers mindfulness-based psychotherapy to manage and reduce depression, anxiety, stress, trauma/PTSD and chronic pain. These therapies have proven beneficial for emotional eating, addictions and ADD/ADHD, as well. “I view [it] as a fusion of East and West teachings and healing modalities,” says the Center’s licensed psychotherapist Susan Hurd. Hurd has 20 years of experience teaching Mindfulness Meditation, and ten years of integrating mindfulnessbased therapies into her private psychotherapy practice. Using the breath to calm reactionary
emotions and conditioned responses – in addition to emphasizing themes like nonjudgment, acceptance, compassion and interconnection – are Eastern concepts that are integrated into her therapies. The goal is to introduce and incorporate mindfulness “in such a way to make it accessible to all,” says Hurd, and “to not alienate people from different religious and spiritual beliefs and cultures... keeping [it] accessible and comfortable, and meeting a person where they are at.” The Britton Lab at Brown University facilitates mindfulness research studies on meditation for managing anxiety, depression and stress, and Butler Hospital integrates mindfulness into group therapy programs. Our community now has mindfulness-based treatments available in places people might not have anticipated.
the healing benefit of fostering compassionate care for self and others, and meeting enlightenment in every situation or state of mind without ever abandoning critical thinking. “It’s learning how to make a difference by not picking and choosing our experience; by being brave and cutting through conditioned notions about reality,” says Gray. “In developing mindfulness, an emerging spirit of contribution is inevitable. In the process of opening, we let go of everything pertaining to ‘me.’ A direct perception of things as they are arises, and with that comes a desire to be of service: ‘How can I help? What can I do to be of benefit?’” “Ultimately, learning to be human is what meditation is all about,” says Gray. “It’s not just reserved for peace and light.”
Jala Studio: Yoga & Art The Art of Helping Others by Helping Oneself Whether managing day-to-day stress and agitation, or plumbing the depths of a deep-seated trauma, the art of actively paying attention can be therapeutic in and of itself. Consequently, techniques that bring you to a place of stillness, clarity and openness can lead to an understanding of one’s emotional suffering. Those who meditate gain mental balance and a heightened level of acceptance and insight. Channing Gray of the Shambhala Meditation Center of Providence practices Shambhala Buddhism, a secular path of study and meditation. It is steeped in the principle that the fundamental nature of basic goodness lives in us all. By deepening their understanding of citta, or “heartmind,” meditators in the Shambhala tradition cultivate an “Enlightened Common Sense” in dedication to living with clarity and wakefulness. These practices have
285 South Main Street Providence • 508-566-2524 www.jala-studio.com
The Mindful Living Center 150 Waterman Street Providence • 787-2355 www.mindful-livingcenter.com
The Britton Lab BioMed Complex Building 171 Meeting Street, Room 232 Providence • 863-9738 www.brittonlab.com
Butler Hospital 345 Blackstone Boulevard Providence • 455-6200 www.butler.org
Providence Shambhala Center 541 Pawtucket Avenue Pawtucket • 617-903-7627 www.providence.shambhala.org
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CLOSE TO HOME Home and Family | Education | Style | Real Estate
On the Market
The Air Up There
A luxury penthouse with views for days By Claire Flanagan
Breathtaking views of College Hill, downtown Providence and Waterplace Park are just one facet of the beautifully renovated Penthouse 11 in Waterplace Luxury Residences at 200 Exchange Street. Waterplace features a 24/7 concierge service, a private fitness facility, an underground parking garage, community room with a terrace and 193 condominiums ranging in style from single living residences to townhouses. But the crowning jewel of the building surely lies in the two luxurious top floor penthouses.
An open floor plan and 7-foot high windows make for singularly outstanding views of the city and an ideal space for entertaining. The entire penthouse has been totally renovated with features like a gourmet kitchen finished with top of the line Thermador appliances, a large center island, wet bar and walk-in pantry, adjacent dining and living room areas with incomparable views and an upgraded gas fireplace and access to a private 800+ square foot terrace, which overlooks the Providence river basin and the heart of WaterFire.
The master suite boasts 16-foot high ceilings with 10- and 16-foot high windows and a walk-in closet. The master bath contains a large vanity with double sinks, a soaking tub and a spacious stand up shower. The rest of Penthouse 11 consists of one half and one full bathroom and two bedrooms. The penthouse comes with three deeded parking spots in the underground garage, which are located five steps from the elevator. You’ll never find a more impressive view of the city than from this optimally located and chic penthouse.
200 Exchange Street at at Glance • • • • • •
MLS: 1089781 Listing Price: $1,425,000 Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2.5 Square Footage: 2,250 sq ft. Listed by: Lila Delman Real Estate International • For more information: • Benjamin Scungio – 274-1644 or ben.scungio@liladelman.com August 2015 East Side Monthly
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East Side Monthly August 2015
A Vision for the Future
Supporting our students all the way to higher education By Jill Davidson According to Rhode Island
Kids Count’s 2012 report, nearly nine-tenths of Providence Public Schools seniors aspire to attend college, but less than half enroll immediately following graduation. Almost two-thirds of these students identify as Latino, so it’s smart to focus on policies and practices that support their success. “Minding the Gap: Increasing College Persistence in Rhode Island,” a March 2015 report presented by the Providence Children and Youth Cabinet, looks at the state of Latino higher education attainment. While 43% of Rhode Island’s population holds degrees, a rate higher than the national average, only 16% of Rhode Island Latinos have college degrees, a rate below the national average. Given that Latinos make up more than 12% of our state’s population and are our state’s fastest-growing ethnic group, identifying ways for them – particularly those who are economically disadvantaged – to enroll in and complete degree-granting programs at higher rates will prove to be a critical success factor for our state. “Minding the Gap” reports that our state’s institutions of higher education and community-based organizations are employing a wide variety of practices that promise to support much higher rates of college success among Latinos (and other populations striving for higher education attainment). Among the organizations cited as making a significant difference for students is College Visions, a Providence-based nonprofit founded ten years ago by East Side native Simon Moore. Moore attended Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary School, Nathan Bishop Middle School, Classical High School and then Brown University. “I knew so many people who had the talent to do well in college but didn’t have the support. Having a limited education and finding a stable job that pays a living wage is a tough proposition in Rhode Island’s economic climate,” Moore says. Moore drew on work as a high school teacher and college advisor to start College Visions, which aims to support low-income and first-generation college-bound students to get into and graduate from college. With College Visions staff members and volunteers, Executive Director Moore works with 400 students from Providence and other urban communities. The program starts with students in the summer before their
senior year and supports them through and beyond college graduation, providing frequent and consistent advising, support, information and resources to guide them to choose colleges that are affordable and that provide appropriate conditions for success. Once enrolled in college, students continue to work with College Visions advisors as well as other campus-based resources to chart their courses of study, manage finances and address factors that might otherwise prove to disrupt their paths toward graduation. College Visions participant Sherly Torres talked about the ways that the College Visions staff members helped students turn their higher education aspirations into reality. “I took control and did it on my own,” says Torres. “I really didn’t know the process, and all through senior year, College Visions helped me figure out where I could go, how to apply and especially how to sort out the financial aid part.” Now enrolled at Rhode Island College, Torres continues to work with Emily Rodriguez, a College Visions staffer based part-time on campus. “My mom is supportive but she can’t help me with this,” Torres says. “Emily helps me keep track of what I am doing in terms of school, finances and figuring out what comes next.” Local and national recognition has
also extended College Visions’ impact. Earlier this year, Moore was one of ten people to be honored by the White House as a Champion of Change. College Visions has produced 140 college graduates and is currently working with 325 enrolled students. Though Simon Moore wants the program to grow, he knows that its success depends on maintaining close relationships among students and advisors. A side benefit is that College Visions students and alumni promote a college-going culture in their communities, creating a positive ripple effect. Candido Moya joined forces with College Visions during his senior year, working through the application and financial aid process to select Brandeis University, which has provided a full scholarship for his course of study. “I learned how to advocate for myself,” says Moya, who is now sharing his experience of applying to and seeking robust financial support for college with younger friends and relatives. As we plan for an upbeat future and sustained economic expansion for Providence and all of Rhode Island, we are wise to remind ourselves that increasing the number of citizens who earn college degrees will significantly improve our economic ascendance and prolonged vitality. We want this for our young people and they want it for themselves.
Illustration by Ashley MacLure
Real Estate
Close to Home Education
Education
continued
Smart News School One’s Head Wins Fulbright-Hays Seminar Opportunity Kudos to School One’s Head of School Jennifer Borman, who was selected as one of only 16 educators from around the country to participate in 2015’s Fulbright-Hays Seminar in China, sponsored by the United States Department of Education. During the summer, Borman visited Beijing, Xi’an, Chongqing and Shanghai to tour schools, teacher training programs, arts academies and other cultural and artistic sites. Back to School Celebration On Saturday, August 15, from 10am1pm, a host of local businesses and organizations are sponsoring the Back to School Celebration, at which children and their parents will receive free school supplies to get ready for the upcoming school year. The Back to School Celebration happens statewide; Providence locations include Hope High School (324 Hope Street), the Parent Information and Student Registration (325 Ocean Street), the United Way of Rhode Island (50 Valley Street) and the West End Community Center (109 Bucklin Street). Providence Public Schools’ first day is September 2.
279 Water St. Warren, RI info.musehandcrafted.com Gifts Spur Moses Brown Construction and Innovation In June, the Moses Brown School broke ground on the Woodman Family Community and Performance Center, made possible by a $5 million dollar gift from Dean Woodman ‘46 in 2013. The new 25,295-squarefoot community and performance space will open in 2016 and will replace the 150-year-old Alumni Hall as the school’s space for the performing arts, gatherings and symposia, and a setting in which to gather for Quaker worship. Alumni Hall will become the Y-Lab, an innovators’ space named for Quaker engineer and scientist Thomas Young (1773-1829). The Y-Lab is sponsored by a $2.285 million anonymous gift dedicated to engineering, creative problem solving and educational opportunity. This learning environment will encourage team-based brainstorming, rapid prototyping and interactive experimentation, and will be a home for leading-edge technology (3D printers and digital prototyping software) and low-tech modeling materials (woodworking, cardboard and glue guns).
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Let’s Work Together
Sartorially Speaking The quest for an iconic fashion photographer’s jacket By Liz Rau
Illustration by Lia Marcoux
One of my least favorite
things to do is shop. Clothes are not a top priority in my life, and that’s obvious. My duds at work are jeans, a turtleneck – in all seasons – and clogs. My duds at home are jeans, a turtleneck – in all seasons – and clogs. Ditto for duds out on the town. This is the long way of disclosing that I am a fan of nononsense clothes that make the morning ritual painless and swift. Which brings me to Bill Cunningham’s jacket. Cunningham is a photographer for The New York Times. Actually, he’s a fashion photographer, although I’m not sure he would like to be called that; he’s too modest. “I’m not a good photographer,’’ he has said. “I just love to see wonderfully dressed women.’’ He roams around Manhattan on his Schwinn, taking photos of people with his battered Nikon for his street-fashion column, “On The Street.’’ He also maintains a society column, “Evening Hours.’’ Both are snapshots of the city, often revealing New Yorkers’ eccentricities. A reptile-skin trench for April showers? Poor boa. He’s been doing the columns for years, long enough to gain a following among fashionistas, like Anna Wintour, longtime editor of Vogue; society types who dress up for flower shows and ordinary folks looking for a brief distraction from the heaviness of life. I am not a regular reader, but I know that Cunningham wrote a column not long ago about the revival of wide-rimmed felt hats in New York and about a sudden splash of orange clothes, which I eagerly read because that happens to be my son’s favorite color. Cunningham, who was 86 at press time, also narrates short videos of his work for the Times. I enjoy them, mostly because I like his Boston accent, which he never abandoned, even though he has lived in the Big Apple since 1948. Which brings me to Cunningham’s movie, Bill Cunningham New York, a 2010 documentary about the elusive photographer, his enormous body of work and his charming habit of calling people under 65 “kid,’’ as in, “Nice work, kid.’’ I recently watched
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the film on Netflix. Cunningham is shy and doesn’t like talking about himself so the film is more entertaining than revealing, until one of the final scenes when he bursts into tears for a few seconds and a lifetime of heartache pours forth. We learn from the film that Cunningham is an ascetic. He lives in a tiny apartment in the Carnegie Hall building, with no private bathroom, kitchen or closet. He doesn’t really need a closet, since he wears the same thing every day: straightlegged khakis, a solid button-down, black dress shoes and a blue worker’s jacket from France. I covet his coat: a loose-fitting, four-pocketed, slump-shouldered smock designed for French factory workers in the 19th century to protect their shirts from grime. The “bleu de travail’’ is Cunningham’s signature piece. If I could get my hands on one I’d be très content. As the story goes, Cunningham bought his jacket years ago for $20 during a trip to Paris to shoot the catwalk. Fat chance securing that price today. I started with Google.
So many knockoffs – too stiff, and the blue hailed from the Crayola hue. Cunningham’s coat is faded, more of a gray-green. I tracked down a fashion blog that critiqued a few of the offerings, including a $500 jacket from Tokyo (no thanks) and a vintage version (translation: used) with holes and paint stains. Again, no thanks. I finally found a reasonably priced version from a New York store called Hickoree’s. I checked out the store’s website. Sold out. I fired off an email to customer service: “Do you expect any more Bill Cunningham jackets?’’ Kristen wrote back the next day: “Hi Liz, We aren’t stocking this brand any more, unfortunately, but hopefully will soon replace them with another French moleskin jacket – stay tuned.’’ I don’t want “another’’ jacket. I want Cunningham’s. Je suis triste. Bill, if you’re out there, reading this column during a pass-through of Providence, do a kid a favor. I’m a small. Elizabeth Rau can be reached at erau1@verizon.net.
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August 2015 East Side Monthly
31
On the tOwn
Restaurant and Food | Dining Guide | Calendar of events
Flavor of the Month
Paella
Harvesting Flavor Red Fin Crudo and Kitchen brings bold inspirations to tapas and seafood By Stephanie Obodda
Photography by Stacey Doyle
Washington Street’s
Red Fin Crudo and Kitchen is a flavorful newcomer. Since our first visit shortly after their late April opening, the menu has evolved considerably, shifting more focus to tapas and showcasing the warmer season’s ingredients. Red Fin Crudo and Kitchen’s decor has a steampunk edge, with glossy red drafting chairs, a stack of vintage metal crates for a hostess stand and a mustached pig-octopus mascot. It’s whimsical but not flippant. The menu has a similarly playful quality. As you’d expect from the name, it is seafood focused, with a daily ceviche and a raw oyster selection. But there’s plenty on the menu for other palates as well, including classic tapas and creative originals. This weeknight date called for cocktails. I chose the Red Fin 71, a play on a French 75 ($10) with gin, cava, lemon juice and a sprig of thyme. My husband had the Strawberry Letter ($12), an intriguing concoction with muddled strawberries, vodka, root liqueur and lime juice. It had an unconventional herbal, sour flavor that worked well for a summer evening. We had arrived early to take advantage
of Archie Time, a happy hour special featuring $1 chef’s choice oysters. Ordering a half-dozen, we sampled two each of Cape Neddick (Maine), Wellfleet and Cotuit (both Massachusetts). I am fond of briny oysters, so I especially liked the Cotuit. Though we did not order the ceviche of the day, it looked tempting on its way to a neighboring table: quahog ceviche served in one half of its shell with a sesame seaweed salad nestled in the other. We enjoyed a coaster-sized portion of Tuna Tartare ($9.50), enhanced by bursting tangerine segments and tiny slices of serrano pepper. Our next dish consisted of three halves of deviled eggs in Huevos Diablo ($5), which had a rich filling incorporating smoked ingredients including shallots, with a drizzle of smoked oil taking the flavor even further. For our heartier dishes, we deliberated on a bottle of wine. The wine list is approachable, with most available by the glass. We decided on a bottle of the 2011 OPP ($45), a Pinot Noir from Willamette Valley. The nod to the Naughty By Nature song in this case refers to “Other People’s Pinot” – appropriate,
because Mouton Noir buys grapes from various growers to make this wine. Fans of Jamon Iberico, a delicate origin-controlled cured ham, will be delighted to know that this restaurant carries the specialty. I wasn’t sure whether a cooked dish would do justice to the flavor, but the Croquetas de Jamon ($11) were great. This is one of the classic tapas dishes on the menu. They were perfectly fried, not at all dry and accompanied by a smoky aioli. If you want a pure jamon experience, you can order it thinly sliced with toasted bread; on the current menu, it’s also featured in a pasta dish. Next, Picadillo Empanadas ($9) were made with local beef from Pat’s Pastured and flavored with a classic empanada flavor combination of olives and raisins. The empanadas were halved and perched like little sailboats in garlic aioli, sprinkled with flakes of Manchego cheese. We thought it wise to add some vegetables to our meal, and one dish stood out. The Cauliflower and Mushrooms ($9) had well-roasted florets of orange and white cauliflower, a few oyster mushrooms and a sesame sauce. Its salty, toasty boldness was a rebuff to cauli-
flower’s bland reputation. Though on the salad list, it was more hearty than dainty. Our last savory selection was the Fish and Clams ($15) entree: a rich tomatobased seafood stew with in-shell clams, fingerling potatoes and bits of sizzled pork belly, topped with a piece of battered fish. Triangles of grilled ciabatta were indispensable to soak up the amazing broth. Our waiter was kind enough to bring more bread at our request. For dessert, we had whiskey cake with berries and cream ($10). The cake was moist and thoroughly infused with a pleasant, sweet whiskey flavor. Though it’s no secret that Providence is already a culinary destination, it’s a compliment when creative outof-state chefs like chef-owner couple Julio Lazzarini and Jenny Behm-Lazzarini set their sights on our city as a showcase for their flavors.
Red Fin Crudo and Kitchen 71 Washington Street, Providence 454-1335 www.redfincrudo.com August 2015 East Side Monthly
33
PROVIDENCE - EAST SIDE
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newest ideas
East Side Monthly August 2015
401.421.6196 www.ProvidencePictureFrame.com I-95, Exit 24 Branch Avenue (next to Benny’s) Monday - Saturday 8:30-6:30
On the town On the Menu
Tuesday Special
Wholesome Family Dining the east Side Creamery and Pizzeria reopens with a side of nostalgia By Grace Lentini
Photography by Mike Braca
Monday & Wednesday SPeciAl Free Eyebrow Wax with Manicure/Pedicure
There are many things
that make the East Side special. A knack for creating an environment for living and working communities is just one of them, and a big one at that. Hope Street is crawling with local clothing stores, eateries and knick knack shops. Wickenden and South and North Main Streets boast the same. And then there’s Ives Street, a conduit from the heart of the East Side into Fox Point. There is a slew of mainstay shops on Ives Street as well as a resurgence of businesses like the East Side Creamery, which is now the East Side Creamery and Pizzeria. I spoke with the new owner George Forte, and he is thrilled to add to the vitality of this community. He’s a born and bred Rhode Islander who’s spent the last seven years working – and succeeding – in Manhattan. But as his two girls have gotten older, he’s realized that he is needed at home. His focus with East Side Creamery and Pizzeria is to add to the mom and pop joints that dot Ives Street. This is of paramount importance to him, especially after seeing the corporatization of Manhattan. To him, Ives Street is reminiscent of old Brooklyn, a place he loves, and his goal is to feature and support as many local producers as possible. “If I can find a small vendor, I’ll go out of my way to highlight them,” George emotes. “I want that feel to be here. I want to make everyone proud of this place.” He’s had his eye on this spot for a while. So when it finally became available he snatched it up. In fact, it’s his brother-in-law, Albert Pacheco, who owns the building – and Captain Seaweed’s next door – and has greatly helped him. “I couldn’t have done this without Albert,” George beams. George will also not be an absentee owner, oh no. He plans on being at East Side Creamery and Pizzeria for the major parts of the day. As I spoke with him on a sunny afternoon, I was impressed with how many folks he said hello to – by name – in the neighborhood as they walked by. You also may have noticed the term pizzeria added to the title of the cozy corner shop. That’s right, he’s bringing pizza to the creamery. “I like Caserta-style pizza, the biscuity, crispy dough. That’s real pizza,” he says. And he likes it because that’s what he grew up on. He remembers going to Tommy’s Pizza in Cranston or Caserta on the Hill with his family, and also fondly
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East Side Creamery reopens
recalls bakery pizza, which he is proud to call, “bakery pizza,” which is, of course, the correct name. But what can a passerby expect at the creamery? Soft and hard serve ice cream and creative sundaes. The Hot Fudge Brownie sundae is served in a perfect hand-sized cup complete with a brownie and your choice of ice cream and toppings. Then there’s the Strawberry Shortcake Sundae, which has cake on the bottom. George recommends choosing strawberry ice cream to go along with it, which he’ll then top with whipped cream and more. Or you could try the ice cream sandwiches made with from-scratch chocolate chip cookies. He’ll also be offering steak and cheese sandwiches, Italian grinders, wraps and apps. With a Portuguese wife and therefore Portuguese inlaws, he’s representing that heritage with a chourico and pepper sandwich, bifana sandwich and is creating a Portuguese sandwich, complete with thin-sliced marinated rib eye, an egg and sauce. He’s trying to recreate a childhood memory with East Side Creamery and Pizzeria. Memories of cheerful, local business men and women that run a destination eatery that the whole family can come to and have a wholesome time. That’s what he’s been missing, so that’s what he created. 170 Ives Street, Providence. 865-6088, www.facebook.com/EScreameryandpizzeria
Say Cheese “Oh I’ll only have one cube of cheese,” said no one ever. Perhaps you were being polite when you declined extra cheese; perhaps you were embarrassed to be caught in a hedonistic cheese frenzy. Well, frenzy on at the American Cheese Society’s annual Festival of Cheese. Yes, this exists, and yes, it’s open to the public. On August 1 say good-bye to politely declining cheese and plow full-steam-ahead with an all out sampling of over 1,600 American artisan and specialty cheeses. To top it off, there will be plenty of accompaniments to the cheese including charcuterie plates, honey, ciders and more. $60. 7-9:30pm. Rhode Island Convention Center. 1 Sabin Street, Providence. www.cheesesociety.org/conference/festival-of-cheese The Dog Days Aren’t Over Hot dogs are not just reserved for backyard festivities, nor should they be. On August 4 and 18 head over to Aurora from 5-7pm for their Downcity Dog Days. InDowncity has teamed up with Aurora for free hot dogs, drink specials and barbecuerelated events like bean bag tosses and ping pong. Oh and they’ll have some giveaways for local retailers and restaurants. So you should probably head over there and have, like, a good time, or whatever. 276 Westminster Street, Providence. www.auroraprovidence.com
daytime, evening, and weekend sessions are available.
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401.935.2312 August 2015 East Side Monthly
35
RHODY BITES A Sponsored Statewide Dining Guide
View our full Restaurant Profiles on RhodyBites.com
Rasoi Rasoi is the Hindi word for kitchen, reflecting chef/owner Sanjiv Dhar’s dream of creating a restaurant that would balance healthy food, personalized service and Indian culture. Chef Dhar opened his first restaurant, Kabob and Curry, on Providence’s Thayer Street in 1990. Rasoi is his second restaurant and is intended to showcase the diversity of Indian cuisine. The 85seat restaurant provides all patrons an unobstructed view of the open kitchen, furthering Dhar’s mission to share his food and culture. We tend to think of Indian cuisine simply as a collection of curries and rice dishes, but there is a wide spectrum of flavors
and techniques across the country, like coastal western India, where fish is a daily staple; the simpler, healthier preparations of the largely vegetarian Gujrat area; and the hearty, meatcentric Kashmiri and Punjab fare of northern India. Rasoi offers selections from each, providing even those familiar with Indian food the chance to discover new and exciting flavors. Rasoi also offers monthly cooking demos and classes. Conveniently located in the Oak Hill neighborhood of Pawtucket, just a stone’s throw from the East Side of Providence, Rasoi is your destination for a culinary experience like no other.
Can’t Miss Dish: Cauliflower Manchurian – marinated and golden fried florets tossed with soy sauce, peppers, onions and chili sauce
727 East Ave., Pawtucket • 401-728-5500
Rasoi
10 Prime Steak & Sushi Gourmet steaks and sushi. 55 Pine St, Providence, 4532333. LD $$$
Breachway Grill Classic New England fare, plus NY-style pizza. 1 Charlestown Beach Rd, Charlestown, 213-6615. LD $$
Eleven Forty Nine City sophistication in the suburbs. 1149 Division St, Warwick, 884-1149. LD $$$
Andreas Authentic Greek food since 1966. 268 Thayer St, Providence, 3317879. BrLD $-$$
CAV Eclectic cuisine and art in a historic setting. 14 Imperial Place, Providence, 751-9164. BrLD $$-$$$
Enn Japanese Creative sushi and Japanese food. 600 George Washington Hwy, Lincoln, 333-0366. LD $$
Aruba Steve’s Island cuisine, handcrafted cocktails and Caribbean flare. 520 Main St, Warren, 289-2677. LD $-$$
Centro Restaurant & Lounge Contemporary cuisine and cocktails. 1 W Exchange St, Providence, 228-6802. BLD $$$
Fieldstones Relaxed family setting, something for everyone. 980 E Main Rd, Portsmouth, 293-5200. LD $$
Aspire Seasonal Kitchen Contemporary New England fare. 311 Westminster St, Providence, 521-3333. BBrLD $$-$$$
Chapel Grille Gourmet food overlooking the Providence skyline. 100 Chapel View Blvd, Cranston, 9444900. BrLD $$$
Flatbread Company Artisanal pizza, local ingredients. 161 Cushing St, Providence, 273-2737. LD $-$$
Besos Kitchen & Cocktails Tapas and eclectic cuisine and cocktails. 378 Main St, East Greenwich, 398-8855. BrLD $$$
Clean Plate Delicious comfort food in a casual setting. 345 S. Water St, Providence, 621-8888. BBrLD $$
Black Bass Grille Classic seafood, historic waterfront setting. 3 Water St, South Dartmouth, MA, 508-9996975. LD $$
DeWolf Tavern Gourmet American/ Indian fusion. 259 Thames St, Bristol, 254-2005. BLD $$-$$$
Bluewater Bar + Grill Contemporary seafood with farm-to-table cuisine. 32 Barton Ave, Barrington, 247-0017. LD $-$$
Dragon Palace Fresh sushi and Asian cuisine. 733 Kingstown Rd, Wakefield, 789-2308. LD $-$$
Iggy’s Doughboys & Chowder House Classic clam shack fare, plus famous doughboys. 889 Oakland Beach Ave, Warwick, 737-9459; 1157 Point Judith Rd, Narragansett, 783-5608. LD $ Julian’s A must-taste Providence staple celebrating 20 years. 318 Broadway, Providence, 861-1770. BBrLD $$ Kartabar Mediterranean-style cuisine, chic setting. 284 Thayer St, Providence,
331-8111. LD $-$$ KitchenBar Contemporary comfort cuisine. 771 Hope St, Providence, 3314100. BrLD $$ Laurel Lane Country Club Upscale pub cuisine overlooking a picturesque golf course. 309 Laurel Lane, West Kingston, 783-3844. LD $-$$ Lim’s Restaurant Upscale Thai and fresh sushi. 18 South Angell St, Providence, 383-8830. LD $$ Lobster Pot Serving traditional New England classics and seafood. 119 Hope St, Bristol, 253-9100. BrLD $$-$$$ Luxe Burger Bar Build your own creative burger. 5 Memorial Blvd, Providence, 621-5893. LD $ Mariner Grille Creative seafood, pub atmosphere. 140 Point Judith Rd, Narragansett, 284-3282. LD $$ McBlarney’s County Tap Modern,
Key: B breakfast Br brunch L lunch D dinner $ under 10 $$ 10–20 $$$ 20+
36
East Side Monthly August 2015
upscale pub with daily specials. 632 Metacom Ave, Warren, 289-0887. LD $$ McBride’s Pub Traditional Irish pub fare in Wayland Square. 161 Wayland Ave, Providence, 751-3000. LD $$ Meeting Street Cafe Huge sandwiches and cookies. 220 Meeting St, Providence, 273-0166. BLD $ Mews Tavern Family dining, with a whiskey bar. 456 Main St, Wakefield, 783-9370. LD $-$$ Mia’s Prime Time Café Upscale café cuisine by the Pawcatuck River. 1 West Broad St, Pawcatuck, CT, 860-5993840. BLD $$ Mile & a Quarter Eclectic cuisine and wine bar. 334 South Water St, Providence, 331-1500. LD $-$$
Pavilion Steakhouse & Banquets Grand, banquet-hall style dining. 15A Frontier Rd, Hopkinton, 377-9900. BrLD $$$
Siena Impeccable Italian cuisine. Locations in Providence, East Greenwich, Smithfield. D $$-$$$
The Twisted Vine Romantic wine bar with tapas and full meals. 3 Canal St, Westerly, 596-4600. D $$
Phil’s Main Street Grille Classic comfort food; great rooftop patio. 323 Main St, Wakefield, 783-4073. BBrLD $
Simone’s Gourmet brunch followed by upscale Mediterranean cuisine. 275 Child St, Warren, 247-1200. BBrLD $$-$$$
The Village Casual dining and live entertainment. 373 Richmond St, Providence, 228-7222. BrLD $$
PJ’s Pub Mediterranean-influenced pub food. 135 Boone St, Narragansett, 7893200. LD $-$$ Portsmouth Publick House Gourmet pub food with a variety of spirit flights. 1 King Charles Dr, Portsmouth, 6822600. BrLD $-$$ Public Kitchen & Bar American food with changing daily inspirations. 120 Francis St, Providence, 919-5050. BrLD $-$$ Rasa Authentic and contemporary Indian. 149 Main St, East Greenwich, 398-2822. LD $$
T’s Restaurant Plentiful breakfast and lunch. Locations in Cranston, East Greenwich, Narragansett, 946-5900. BL $ Tara’s Tipperary Tavern Oceanside Irish-American pub fare. 907 Matunuck Beach Rd, Matunuck, 284-1901. BLD $ Tavern by the Sea Waterfront European/American bistro. 16 W Main St, Wickford, 294-5771. LD $$
Trinity Brewhouse Rhode Island’s original brewpub. 186 Fountain St, Providence, 453-2337. LD $-$$ UMelt Fun twists on grilled cheese. 129 Weybosset St, Providence, 3836732. LD $ Vetrano’s Ristorante & Pizzeria Italian cooking like grandma made. 130 Granite St, Westerly, 348-5050. LD $$ Vittoria’s NY Pizza Best pizza north of Manhattan. 224 Post Rd, Westerly, 322-1901. LD $-$$
Rasoi Vegetarian-friendly Indian cuisine. 727 East Ave, Pawtucket, 728-5500. LD $$
The Coast Guard House Modern New England fare with Bay views. 40 Ocean Rd, Narragansett, 789-0700. LD $$-$$$
Waterman Grille Riverfront New American dining. 4 Richmond Sq, Providence, 521-9229. BLD $$$
Nonni’s Italian Restaurant Traditional Italian eatery and pasta shop. 1154 Stafford Rd, Tiverton, 624-3087. LD $$
Red Stripe Casual French-American bistro. 465 Angell St, Providence, 4376950. BrLD $$
The Dorrance Fine dining with exquisite cocktails. 60 Dorrance St, Providence, 521-6000. D $$$
Wes’ Rib House Missouri-style BBQ, open late. 38 Dike St, Providence, 4219090. LD $$
Oceanside at the Pier New England fare overlooking the Atlantic. 1 Beach St, Narragansett, 792-3999. BrLD $$
Rick’s Roadhouse House-smoked barbecue. 370 Richmond St, Providence, 272-7675. LD $-$$
The Malted Barley Gourmet pretzels and craft brews. 42 High St, Westerly, 315-2184. $
Whiskey Republic Delicious dockside pub fare. 515 South Water St, Providence, 588-5158. LD $-$$
Paragon & Viva Contemporary dining and nightlife. 234 Thayer St, Providence, 331-6200. BrLD $-$$
Scampi Seafood and Italian cuisine with expansive water views. 657 Park Ave, Portsmouth, 293-5844. LD $$
The Restaurant at Weekapaug Inn Quintessential New England fare. 25 Spray Rock Rd, Westerly, 322-0301. BLD $$$
XO Cafe Creative cocktails and New American fare. 125 N Main St, Providence, 273-9090. BrD $$
Parkside Rotisserie & Bar American bistro specializing in rotisserie meats. 76 South Main St, Providence, 331-0003. LD $-$$
Seasons Fine dining at the Ocean House. 1 Bluff Ave, Westerly, 5847000. BLD $$$
The Sea Goose Seafood with New England and Southern flair. 265 Post Rd, Westerly, 315-0788. LD $$-$$$
Zooma Trattoria Fresh Italian cuisine using house-made pasta. 245 Atwells Ave, Providence, 383-2002. LD $$
Mill’s Tavern Historic setting for New American gourmet. 101 N Main St, Providence, 272-3331. D $$$
Worth The Drive:
Photography by Hilary Block
The Coast Guard House The Coast Guard House is a Rhode Island institution that has reopened after being devastated by Hurricane Sandy. Sip on a Bloody Uprising in the new first floor dining room while taking in the sights of Narragansett Town Beach, watching the surf roll in and out. Visitors can enjoy drinks such as a Chardonnay created by Newport Vineyards, a Mudslide made with Dave’s Coffee Syrup or other thirst-quenching
selections. Regulars ask about the organic chicken and scallop dishes that have been longtime favorites. New menu items include shrimp tempura and a crab mac ’n cheese. The swordfish comes from local fishermen, while the produce is from Farm Fresh Rhode Island. Whether you’re in the mood for a post-swim cocktail or a seaside dinner for two, the Coast Guard House has what you need.
Can’t Miss Dish: House-Made Lobster Ravioli with peas, scallions, shallots, brandy cream, lobster claw garnish. The Coast Guard House
For full restaurant profiles, go to RhodyBites.com
40 Ocean Road, Narragansett • 401-789-0700 @RhodyBites
facebook.com/RhodyBites
August 2015 East Side Monthly
37
A Providence Original
Fine dining for the discerning palate, featuring local & seasonal ingredients, served impeccably in an 18th century tavern setting.
101 N. Main Street • Providence
401.272.3331
millstavernrestaurant.com Mon-Thurs. 5-1o p.m. Fri-Sat. 5-11 p.m. Sun 4-9 p.m.
A neighborhood brasserie serving affordable four-star comfort food with casual finesse.
465 Angell St • Wayland Sq. 401.437.6950
NOW OPEN!
455 Main St. • E. Greenwich 401.398.2900
redstriperestaurants.com Mon-Thurs. 11:30 a.m.-1o p.m. Fri-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Sun 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
On the town Calendar
by Miranda Richard and Rebecca Bendheim
August music | performance | social happenings | galleries | sports
DON’T MISS THIS MONTH: 10 events at the top of our list
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Concerts Under the Elms. August 6 at the John Brown House Museum in Providence. www.rihs.org. Stories Untold. August 1-31 at Lippitt House in Providence. www.lippitthouse.org. Farm Fresh RI Summertime Farmers’ Market. Tuesdays and Saturdays in Providence. www.farmfreshri.org. SNA Music Festival. August 15 at Lippitt Park. www. snaprovidence.ri.us.
Flutterby: Butterflies in Bloom. August 1-31 at Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence. www.rwpzoo.org. Life in Film. August 21 at Waterplace Park. www.wbru.com.
$5 Funnies: A Wicked Funny Showcase. August 8 at Comedy Connection in East Providence. www.ricomedyconnection.com.
Rhode Island Interntional Film Festival. August 4-9 at various locations across the state. www.film-festival.org. American Idol Live! August 3 at The Vets in Providence. www.ppacri.org.
Photo (Top) courtesy of Stewart Martin Photography, (Bottom) by Amy Lane
Concerts Under the Elms returns August 6
CES Championship Cagefighting. August 14 at Twin River Casino in Lincoln. www.twinriver.com.
GOOD TUNES
Wild in Waterplace Park Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness (AMitW) is headed by Andrew McMahon, formerly of Jack’s Mannequin and Something Corporate. McMahon’s second attempt at a solo project takes an indie pop spin on his familiar rock sound. As the penultimate performance in WBRU’s Dunkin Donuts Summer Concert Series on August 14, AMitW will follow other up-and-coming indie acts, including Joywave and St. Motel. McMahon’s energetic stage presence is sure to make for a fun night by the river. Free. 7-10pm. Memorial Boulevard at Exchange Street, Providence. www.wbru.com.
August 2015 East Side Monthly
39
8/6 THE LAST WALTZ 8/13 THE EXORCIST 8/20 BLOOD SIMPLE 8/27 BADLANDS visit moviesontheblock.com for more info
172 ProsPect st., east side Elegant 3 bedroom College Hill townhouse. Bright & sunny end unit with open layout, hardwoods, high ceilings and large master bedroom. Home has central A/C, updated mechanicals, laundry in unit and integral garage. Must see! $315,000
91 EvErgrEEn St. EaSt SidE Very well kept one owner Townhouse featuring granite & stainless kit, hardwood floors throughout, central air, deck, 2 car off street parking in professionally run condo association. Freshly painted nothing to do but move in and enjoy! $259,000
75 EaglE St. FEdEral Hill Gorgeous open floor plan loft with 15 ft ceilings and huge windows letting in a ton of light. Underground garage with elevator access. Laundry in the unit. Convenient location, minutes from all the Atwells restaurants. $159,500
281 Benefit St. eaSt Side Enjoy living on historic Benefit Street in the heart of Providence’s College Hill area. This condo boasts two bedroom suites each with their own baths and gorgeous city views. Walk to Downtown, Brown, RISD, The Alpert Medical School and Amtrak. $258,688
104-106 Cole Ave. eAst side Pristine 2 Family home with 3rd fl. in-law or Townhouse unit. Absolutely beautiful condition! 1st fl. new kitchen & central air. Entire property freshly painted & refinished floors. 3 year old roof, replacement windows throughout, new electric & much more! $569,000
118 Governor St. eaSt Side Fantastic 4 Family PLUS 2 bed, 1.5 bath fabulous luxury Carriage House. Properties are in fantastic shape! Steps to Brown University. Parking for 6 cars. Laundry in units. A very special property! $ 1,475,000
RI’s #1 Real Estate Company Largest Relocation Company in the Country • Leader in Interactive Web Technology Serving Providence, East Bay & MA | 401-351-2017 40
East Side Monthly August 2015
| www.nemoves.com
On the town Calendar continued...
MUSIC
arena & club | classical ARENA & CLUB AS220 August 19: The Vox Hunters, Lindsay Straw, Russ Connors and Steve DelMonico. 115 Empire Street, Providence. 831-9327, www.as220.org. CHAN’S FINE ORIENTAL DINING August 2: Coco Montoya. August 6: Albert Castiglia. August 7: Golden State Lone Star Review. August 14: Mitch Woods and Rocket 88. August 15: Chris Duarte. August 16: Jimmy Thackery. August 19: Rick Estrin and the Nightcats. August 20: Jarekus Singleton. August 22: Commander Cody. August 28: Roomful of Blues. 267 Main Street, Woonsocket. 765-1900, www. chanseggrollsandjazz.com. COLUMBUS THEATRE August 4: tUnE-yArDs with special guest White Hinterland. August 7: Shabazz Palaces, Eaters. August 21: Brian Blade & The Fellowship Band. August 22: Earth, Elder, Assembly of Light Choir, Owlfood. August 28: Brian Blade & Mama Rosa. 270 Broadway, Providence. 621-9660, www.columbustheatre.com.
www.ppacri.org. TWIN RIVER August 1: Boz Scaggs. August 15: The Fab Four: The Ultimate Tribute. 100 Twin River Road, Lincoln. 723-3200, www.twinriver.com. WATERPLACE PARK August 7: In the Valley Below. August 14: Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness. August 21: Life in Film. Memorial Boulevard at Exchange Street, Providence. www.wbru.com.
James Goff. August 8: $5 Funnies. August 13: Lavell Crawford. August 14-15: Kyle Ploof. August 20: Michael Blackson. August 21-22: Corey Rodrigues. Girls’ Night Out. August 27: Frank Santos Jr. August 28-29: Mike Hanley. Fridays: Hardcore Comedy. 39 Warren Avenue, East Providence. 438-8383, www.ricomedyconnection.com.
CLASSICAL DEPASQUALE SQUARE Wednesdays: Free Live Music on Federal Hill. Atwells Avenue, Providence.
DANCE AS220 Mondays: Intermediate/Advanced Modern Dance. Tuesdays: Intermediate Ballet and Stretch & Strength. Wednesdays: Open Level Modern Dance. Sundays: Beginner and Intermediate Ballet. 95 Empire Street, Providence. 831-9327, www.as220.org.
RHODE ISLAND HISTORICAL SOCIETY August 6: Concerts Under the Elms presents: Magnolia Cajun Band. 52 Power Street, Providence. 331-8575, www.rihs.org.
PROVIDENCE TANGO Fridays (except 8/7): Free Tango Lessons. 172 Exchange Street, Pawtucket. 288-1170, www.providencetango.com.
PeRFORMAnCe
comedy | dance | theatre COMEDY COMEDY CONNECTION August 1: Mike Finoia. August 7-8:
THEATRE AURORA August 6, 7, 28 & 30: Burbage Theatre Company Presents Red Light Winter by Adam Rapp. August 20, 21, 22 & 29: Burbage Theatre Company Presents
•
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FÊTE August 14-15: 2015 NYDM Annual MetalFest, featuring Pyrexia and Misery Index. August 22: Black Sheep presents The Big Kahuna, featuring Shadows Fall. August 25: Koffin Kats. 103 Dike Street, Providence. 383-1112, www.fetemusic.com. FIREHOUSE 13 August 1: Phlegm. 41 Central Street, Providence. 270-1801, www.fh13.com.
Photo courtesy of Christina Monahan
LUPO’S HEARTBREAK HOTEL August 12: Between the Buried and Me. August 19: Earl Sweatshirt. August 25: WBRU Presents Beach House and Romantic States. 79 Washington Street, Providence. 331-5876, www. lupos.com. THE MET August 1: The So So Glos. August 4: Young Rising Sons with Hunter Hunted. August 10: An Evening with Delta Spirit and Friends. August 15: The Brother Kite. 1005 Main Street, Pawtucket. 729-1005, www.themetri.com. PROVIDENCE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER August 3: American Idol Live! 1 Avenue of the Arts, Providence. 421-2787,
SCENE IT ALL
One Amazing Act Head over to Cranston for some amazing acts at the Artists’ Exchange’s tenth annual One Act Play Festival. This year’s festival theme is celebration. The second wave of performances in the festival will take place during the first week of August and will feature local and national playwrights. The One Act Play Festival aims to highlight the work of local and fan-favorite national and international playwrights in a series of singleact features. The Artists’ Exchange received over 1,000 submissions for the festival, and only the best 16 were selected for performance. $15-20. Fridays 7pm and Saturdays 3pm & 7pm. 82 Rolfe Square, Cranston. 4909475, www.artists-exchange.org.
August 2015 East Side Monthly
41
On the town Calendar continued...
Painting ServiceS
Interior/Exterior • Powerwashing Decks • Waterproofing
gutter ServiceS
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Love Song by John Kolvenbach. 276 Westminster Street, Providence. www. auroraprovidence.com. ARTISTS’ EXCHANGE August 1-8: 10th Annual One Act Play Festival, Wave 2. August 7-22: EPIC Theatre Company presents The Boys of St. Matthew’s Present Tartuffe. 50 & 82 Rolfe Square, Cranston. 490-9475, www.artists-exchange.org. 2ND STORY THEATRE August 1-28: Die, Mommy, Die! August 1-30: I Hate Hamlet. August 1, 2: Venus in Fur. 28 Market Street, Warren. 2474200, www.2ndstorytheatre.com.
SOCIAL hAPPenInGS
run. 7 Corn Neck Road, Block Island. Rhode Island, www.new-shoreham.com. RHODE ISLAND INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL August 4-9: Hundreds of international films screened at various locations across the state. 83 Park Street Suite 1, Providence. 861-4445, www. film-festival.org. MOVIES ON THE BLOCK August 6: The Last Waltz. August 13: The Exorcist. August 20: Blood Simple. August 27: Badlands. 260 Westminster Street, Providence. www. moviesontheblock.com.
expos | fundraisers | seasonal
MUSIC SERIES & BEER GARDEN Thursdays: Music and beer at Burnside Park. 2 Kennedy Plaza, Providence. www.kennedyplaza.org.
FESTIVALS BLOCK ISLAND TRIATHLON August 1: Fred Benson Town Beach Pavilion, 0.25 mi swim, 12 mi bike, 4 mi
WATERFIRE August 1, 15 & 29: WaterFire with music, food and more. 8:20pm. Downtown Providence. www.waterfire.org.
165 Pitman Street, Providence | 831-7771 | eastsidemarket.com
Dr. David A. Vito Dr. John D. Corrow Dr. Carl D. Corrow
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Our Farm Fresh Veggies… Enjoy our bountiful harvest of seasonal produce fresh from our farm. Purveyors of unique & unusual plant material, pottery, fountains and garden decor.
THE FARMER’S DAUGHTER 716 Mooresfield Road (Rt. 138) Wakefield, RI • 401-792-1340 Open Daily 9am - 6pm • www.thefarmersdaughterri.com
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East Side Monthly August 2015
MOVIE MADNESS
The Midwest Comes Downtown Providence’s favorite and only outdoor movie theater at Grant’s Block brings us Badlands, a 1973 crime classic, on August 27. Named by The Guardian as one of the top five crime films of all time, the movie follows 14-year-old Holly, a baton-twirling schoolgirl who lives in small-town South Dakota with her father. To his dismay, she begins dating 25-yearold bad boy Kit. In true old-time Wild West fashion, Kit shoots Holly’s father dead after a fight and the couple goes on a wild killing spree. The film is based on a true story, the 1958 murders by Caril Ann Fugate and her boyfriend Charles Starkweather, but Holly and Kit’s deadly romance is what makes the film a hit all on its own. Free. 260 Westminster Street, Providence. www.moviesontheblock.com.
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Stop by or call today to learn why EPOCH is the Residence of Choice for Couples.
401-288-3511
www.EPOCHBlackstone.com 353 Blackstone Boulevard • Providence, RI 02906 Assisted Living . Short-Term Rehabilitation . Long-Term Care (RI Relay 711) Skilled Nursing . Memory Care . Respite
Save the date: Sunday, October 25, 2015
Meet four-time Olympic Gold Medalist Lenny Krayzelburg!
All are welcome!
Dwares
401 Elmgrove Avenue | Providence, RI 02906 | jewishallianceri.org
Rhode Island
For more information contact London Blake at 401.421.4111 ext. 153 or lblake@jewishallianceri.org.
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40 Ocean Road, Narragansett, RI 401.789.0700 | thecoastguardhouse.com August 2015 East Side Monthly
43
On the town Calendar continued...
FOR FOODIES BIN 312: Thursdays: Wine Tasting. 312 South Main Street, Providence. 714-0040, www.bin312.com.
We Make the Ordinary LOOk SpectacuLar
BOTTLES Thursdays: Spirit Tasting. Fridays: Beer Tasting. Saturdays: Wine Tasting. 141 Pitman Street, Providence. 372-2030, www.bottlesfinewine.com. ENO Fridays and Saturdays: Wine Tasting. 225 Westminster Street, Providence. 521-2000, www.enofinewines.com.
401-345-3312 hOuSingfutura.cOM
FARM FRESH RHODE ISLAND Tuesdays: Summertime Farmers’ Market. Downtown next to Kennedy Plaza. Saturdays: Hope Street Farmers’ Market. Lippitt Park, Blackstone Boulevard at Hope Street, Providence. www.farmfreshri.org.
NEW HARVEST COFFEE ROASTERS Fridays: Free coffee tasting 3-4pm. 999 Main Street, #108 Pawtucket. www.newharvestcoffee.com. OTHER THE STABLE August 23: High Heel Dash & Block Party. 125 Washington Street, Providence. 521-3603, www.aidscareos.org. TRINITY BREWHOUSE Tuesdays: Stump Trivia. 186 Fountain Street, Providence. 453 2337, www.stumptrivia.com.
GALLeRIeS ATRIUM GALLERY August 1-31: The African-American Visual Arts Show. One Capitol Hill, Providence. 222-3880, www.arts. ri.gov/projects/atrium.php.
Nominated Best Erotic Boutique in U.S., AVN Awards 2012
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More Toys than the Devil has Sinners Mon 12pm-8pm, Tues-Thur 11-9 Fri-Sat 11-10, Sun 12-8
Order Online: mistersistertoys.com 268 Wickenden Street, Providence • 421- 6969 ART AFFIRMATIONS
Find Your Happy Box Fine Thai & SuShi ReSTauRanT
Dine In Take Out or Have us Cater Way l a n d S q u a r e
18 South Angell Street, Providence • 383-8830 • www.limsri.com Tues-Thurs 11:30-10pm• Friday & Sat 11:30-10:30pm • Sunday 12-9:30pm
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East Side Monthly August 2015
Do you need a confidence booster for that big presentation? Some happy thoughts to get through your Monday? Everyone can benefit from a little affirmation and creative expression, and this month’s Expressive Arts Workshop at PeaceLove Studios offers both. On August 19, mental health advocate Allie Johnston will lead an Affirmation Boxes Workshop for kids and adults alike to create unique boxes used to store positive thoughts for later. Participants will choose from a large selection of craft supplies including buttons, stickers, pattern paper and more to make the box lovely and personal, just like the thoughts inside. Online pre-registration required. Free. 7-9pm. 999 Main Street, Unit 704, Pawtucket. 4759778, www.peacelovestudios.com.
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1195 North Main Street Providence (401) 861.3782 Mon-Fri: 9am to 8pm Sat & Sun: 9am to 4pm August 2015 East Side Monthly
45
Computer Consulting For Your Business or Home Expert Witness Web Design Repair Training Network Admin Home/Commercial
BUILD DESIGN RESTORE 401-270-0228 coastmodernconstruction.com
On the town Calendar continued...
LIPPITT HOUSE August 1-31: Stories Untold. 199 Hope Street, Providence. 453-0688, www.lippitthouse.org.
Elmwood Avenue, Providence. 9414998, www.rwpzoo.org.
PEACE LOVE STUDIOS August 5: Free Expressive Arts Workshop: Dual Emotions. August 19: Free Expressive Arts Workshop: Affirmation Boxes. 999 Main Street, Pawtucket. 475-9778, www. peacelovestudios.com.
discussion | instruction | tour
RISD MUSEUM OF ART August 4-7: The Drawing Room: Challenge. August 11-21: Summer Teen Intensive. August 20: Gallery Night, Ways of Looking: Contemporary Video, Hands-on-Art. 224 Benefit Street, Providence. 454-6500, www.risdmuseum.org.
design • site plans • consulting installation • planting • hand pruning
401-742-1895 robertalanmatthews.com
Richard Suls // 401.270.3785 richard@richardsuls.com www.richardsuls.com
Pediatric and Adult Psychiatry Specializing in:
Insomnia Anxiety Perfectionism
Stephanie Hartselle M.D. www.stephaniehartsellemd.com
Authentic Cape Verdean Tapas
• Sophisticated dining in a relaxed atmosphere • Live music on weekends • Half price on select apps 4-6pm 1091 Main Street, Pawtucket (just over line) • 728-0800 Tues-Thurs 4pm-11pm • Fri-Sun 4pm-1am 46
East Side Monthly August 2015
KIDS & FAMILY ARTISTS EXCHANGE August 29: Craft Bash. 50 Rolfe Square, Cranston. 490-9475, www. artists-exchange.org. AUDOBON SOCIETY August 22: Little Nature Hikers at Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge. 99 Pardon Joslin Road, Exeter. 949-5454, www.asri.org. BROWN UNIVERSITY BOOKSTORE Thursdays and Saturdays: Children’s Story Time. 244 Thayer Street, Providence. 863-3168, www.bookstore.brown.edu. MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY AND PLANETARIUM Mondays-Fridays: Summer Sky Views. Saturdays & Sundays: Cosmic Collisions. 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence. 785-9457, www.providenceri. com/museum. PROVIDENCE PUBLIC LIBRARY Fridays: Lapsit Story Time for birth to 18 months. Tuesdays and Fridays: Cradle to Crayons for ages 1 to 3 years old. Tuesdays: Tiny Tales for Preschoolers. Sundays: Family Learning Sundays for children ages 5 to 10. 150 Empire Street, Providence. 455-8000, www.provlib.org. ROGER WILLIAMS PARK ZOO August 1-31: Flutterby: Butterflies in Bloom. August 1-31: Camel Rides. August 1-31: Rock Climbing. 1000
LeARn
HAMILTON HOUSE Mondays: Conversational French. Mondays: German. Mondays: Non-Impact aerobics. Tuesdays: Poetry. Tuesdays: Snake Style Tai Chi Chuan. Fridays: Kripalu Yoga. 276 Angell Street, Providence. 831-1800, www.historichamilton.com. INTERNATIONAL HOUSE Wednesdays: Knitting Group. Thursdays: Socrates Café. 8 Stimson Avenue, Providence. 421-7181, www.internationalhouseofri.org. LADD OBSERVATORY Tuesdays: Telescope Observing Night. 210 Doyle Avenue, Providence. 8632323, www.brown.edu/Departments/ Physics/Ladd/. LIPPITT HOUSE August 1-31: Stories Untold. 199 Hope Street, Providence. 453-0688, www.lippitthouse.org. MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY AND PLANETARIUM Monday–Friday: Summer Sky Views. Saturdays & Sundays: Cosmic Collisions. 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence. 7859457. www.providenceri.com/museum. RISD MUSEUM OF ART August 4-7: The Drawing Room: Challenge. August 20: Gallery Night. 224 Benefit Street, Providence. 454-6500, www.risdmuseum.org. SARAH DOYLE WOMEN’S CENTER Mondays: Girls Night Out. Snacks and informal discussions for self-identified queer women. 26 Benevolent Street, Providence. www.events.brown.edu. THE STEEL YARD Thursdays and Sundays: Open Studios. 27 Sims Avenue, Providence. 273-7101, www.thesteelyard.org.
SPORtS TWIN RIVER August 14: CES Championship Cagefighting. 100 Twin River Road, Lincoln. 877-827-4837, www.twinriver.com.
The hoTTesT MonTh of The Year is here! Stay Cool and Look Cool at the same time. featuring
Luciano Barbera, Samuelsohn, Mason’s and many other exclusive brands
Clothing, Accessories & Luxury Objects for the Thoughful Man 631 Main Street, East Greenwich 885-2500 • jimfortier5@gmail.com
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50% OFF RAW BAR, PIZZA, SOUPS, SALADS AND APPETIZERS 4PM TO CLOSE PITCHER OF SANGRIA JUST $20 AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE RESTAURANT
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3000 Chapel View Blvd. | Cranston, RI | 401.944.4900 | ChapelGrilleRI.com August 2015 East Side Monthly
47
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Gotta get out? Have no time to spend?
ELISE PENN PANSEY The Pet Friendly Realtor
Pet CPR/First Aid Certified
PSI
Pet Sitters International Member Bonded & Insured
DEDICATION... ...is a word that is both used and abused these days. But I want you to know that I really am dedicated to my customers and to my profession. If a real estate transaction is in your future, let’s talk. Then you can decide for yourself if you really believe that I am...
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(401) 617-6376 harrisonri.com 48
East Side Monthly August 2015
173 WICKENDEN PROVIDENCE 401 421-5157
www.adlersri.com
f
Spotlight
special advertising section
Allegra Print & Imaging Content marketing unplugged
There is no mystery why many content marketers gravitate to electronic delivery vehicles: blogs, emails, e-newsletters, as well as content created for social media or websites. All can be distributed quickly and cheaply. “Yet it can be a mistake to put all your content marketing in one digital basket,” says Ted Stein, President at Allegra. In fact, says Stein, “shrewd marketers are taking advantage of their competitors’ digital bias and avoiding online clutter by utilizing more print with great results.” According to a leading survey, people prefer paper-based media: 70% (69% of 18-24 year olds) say they prefer to read paper communications rather than reading off a screen. So, you’ve spent time and money to create valuable, relevant content. This is why print helps your great content get noticed and remembered: • Persuasive: Savvy content marketers use printed materials to drive readers to online content (and vice versa). • Relevant: Targeting mailings enable you to pinpoint the right audience. Add variable data printing to customize the mailing with names, text, images that reflect gender, interests and more. Customized print marketing, on average, has four times the response rate than a generic message. • Durable: You may not think of print as “viral,” but they’re often passed along with the bonus of an in-person recommendation. Some printed pieces are made to last for years. • Engaging: While digital content can look great, it cannot match the tactile qualities of a nice printed piece. There are numerous ways one can enhance the ‘feel” of whatever you are printing. • Dimensional: There are more to cuts and folds than fitting your piece into an envelope. Visual appeal can be enhanced through die-cut shapes, multifolds and more to optimize the effect of your printed material. • Eye-catching: Catch the reader’s attention with metallic inks, foil stamping or embossing. Gloss UV and glitter coatings add luster. Even glow-in-thedark or fluorescent ink can create a mood. Stop by or contact us to discuss your content goals and we’ll help you reach them through high impact print communication. We are here on the East Side.
Allegra Print & Imaging 102 Waterman Street (corner of Thayer), Providence 421-4160 / www.allegraprovidence.com
MARKETING DESIGN • PRINT
P R O V I D E N C E
102 Waterman Street • Providence, RI p:401.421.5160 f:401.272.0686 allegraprovidence.com
Golden Crest nursinG Centre Exceptional Post-Surgery Rehab Services ~ Since 1969 ~ Experience Counts!
~ GoldenCrestNursingCentre.com ~ (401) 353-1710 • 100 Smithfield Road, North Providence
Now offering the Ideal Protein Weight Loss Method “After a week of treatment, all the pain was gone... I recommend Dr. Tom to everyone I know.” – J.T.
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200 South Main Street, Providence 401.453.0025 marcalleninc.com theclubchair.com Tuesday - Friday 10-6 Saturday 10-4
August 2015 East Side Monthly
49
Spotlight
by Dan Schwartz
special advertising section
Beautiful Pre-Owned Jewelry
Empire Loan Supporting the Calle Limpia (Clean Streets) Program
437-8421 • 1271 North Main Street, Providence 273-7050 • 358 Broad Street, Providence
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New Fall Arrivals!
178 Wayland avenue • Providence • 621-6452
Membership...It’s more than just fitness! It’s an open door to a variety of outstanding social, cultural, and educational activities that celebrate family, foster health and well-being, embrace tradition, and expand cultural horizons.
All are welcome at the Dwares JCC! 401 Elmgrove Avenue | Providence, RI 02906 401.421.4111 | jewishallianceri.org
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Stainless Refrigerators Ranges • Washers & Dryers Built-In Refrigeration Cooktops & Wall Ovens Dishwashers 416 Roosevelt Avenue, Central falls • 401.723.0500 • www.kitchenguys.com
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East Side Monthly August 2015
Jeff Keithline, co-owner of Empire Loans, has found various ways for his business to give back to the community through sponsoring nonprofits like the Rhode Island Food Bank, New Urban Arts, AS220’s Empire Review, the Anthony Quinn Foundation and The Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame, among others. Over the past two years, Jeff has gotten excited about the street cleaning non-profit Calle Limpia, started by West Side business owner Jesus Titin. He felt that the trash on the sidewalks and in the streets was a serious problem, so Jesus literally took matters into his own hands. “It’s a great story,” Jeff explains. “He started cleaning in front of his business to the end of the corner. Then he thought, ‘Oh, I might as well keep going a little bit further on either end.’ Next thing you know, he’s hired guys and he’s cleaning farther and farther until, finally, he’s cleaning a two-mile stretch of Broad Street from the overpass of 95 at one end to the downtown gateway overpass at Crossroads Rhode Island.” Jeff was so impressed that he wanted to not only become a supporter of the mission, but begin a North Main Street chapter to clean the streets on the East Side. Jeff explains, “There is a lot going on with North Main and Broad Street, as they are the two busiest streets in Providence.” Jesus and Jeff have met with the mayor and are exploring how to collaborate with the clean team that does work through the Downtown Improvement District. Calle Limpia operates April through September, and their budget is roughly $10,000. To learn more about this excellent program and to get involved, look for their page on Facebook or call Jeff. Empire Loan is still your dependable place for securing short term loans, from $50 to $5,000 and beyond. The retail business is up, and this indicates that the economy is improving as more people are buying non-essential items, like jewelry. And Empire Loan’s sister business, Empire Guitars located on the second floor, is gaining international recognition for their vintage guitar and bass selection, plus all the musical accoutrements any guitar musician needs. Stop by today for a visit!
Empire Loan and Empire Guitars 1271 North Main Street, Providence / 437-8421 358 Broad Street, Providence / 273-7050 www.empireloan.com / www.empireguitarsri.com
Spotlight
Iasimone Plumbing, Heating & Drain Cleaning Professional work meets honest recommendations
special advertising section
IasImonE PlumbIng H e at i n g & D r a i n C l e a n i n g , i n C .
InstallatIons • RepaIRs • Replacements We are always providing a Free Estimate
Servicing all of RI & nearby Mass. for over 35 years
We Can Do anything With Water Except Walk on It
Monday - Friday 7:00am to 6:00pm
Winner of the super service award from Angie’s List four years in a row
27 Allen Avenue, North Providence • (401) 300-9761 • iasimonephdc.com
Tomasso Auto Swedish Motors
We service and repair ALL foreign and domestic models • ASE Certified • RI inspection and repair station #27b
Tip of the Month To prepare for upcoming road trips, avoid unnecessary breakdowns by having your auto technician thoroughly check your vehicle beforehand.
Mon-Fri 8am-5pm
729 East Avenue • 401-723-1111 (Top of the East Side, next door to Rite Aid)
T.F. Morra Tree Care, Inc.
Ornamental and Shade Tree Specialists “We can do anything with water except walk on it,” North Providence’s Iasimone Plumbing cheerily advertises on their website. A trusted familyowned business for over 35 years, Iasimone Plumbing-Heating & Drain Cleaning Inc. has a sterling reputation throughout Rhode Island and nearby Massachusetts, winning the Super Service Award from Angie’s List four years in a row. Owner, president and lifelong Rhode Island resident Louis Iasimone took over the business from his father after working alongside him for many years. “I believe we have been in business for so long because we treat our customers with the respect and professionalism they deserve,” says Louis. They’ll install, repair and replace anything from faucets, toilets, tubs and showers to dishwashers, water heaters and boilers to sewers and drains. Iasimone’s dedication to high quality customer service and attentive care truly sets them apart from other plumbing and heating service companies. “Louis has actually talked people out of doing certain things that other companies had gone in and given them prices for,” says Louis’s wife, Debby. “He doesn’t try to create work for someone so that he can make money. He’s very honest.” Louis and the team at Iasimone truly have your best interest in mind when giving an estimate or a recommendation. Their website also has information on updating homes to help ease life for elderly people who want to remain in their own homes, like installing handicap toilets and moving laundry facilities out of basements or second floors. Visit their website for more information, easy but lifesaving plumbing tips and customer testimonials.
Iasimone Plumbing-Heating & Drain Cleaning, Inc. 27 Allen Avenue, North Providence 300-9761 / www.iasimonephdc.com
• fine hand pruning • tree preservation • hazard tree removal • tree evaluation & diagnosis • shade and specimen tree planting 401-331-8527 • www.TFMorra.com
Classical Pilates on the East Side w Private
& Group Sessions w Offering Mat Classes w Power Pilates Teacher w Training Center w Register Online
189 Cole Avenue, Providence • 401-480-0193 providencepilatescenter.com August 2015 East Side Monthly
51
marketplace HOusE clEaNINg
HOME IMPROVEMENT cEIlINg REPaIRs Repairing water damaged, cracked, peeling ceilings & walls. Located on the East Side. Over 100 satisfied local customers. Malin Painting, RI Reg. #19226. Call 226-8332.
cEIlINg wORK, dRYwall Plaster (hang, tape & paint). Water damage repair. All phases of carpentry. Reg. #24022. Fully insured. Steven, E. Prov., 401-641-2452.
We clean your home as our own! References & free estimates. Call 401-524-7453 or 401-228-6273.
Free estimates. Cement, brick, stone, patio, walks, driveways, chimneys, fireplaces. Repairs. Bobcat services. Insured. Lic. #29611. 401-487-5118. www.ladservicesllc.com
HOusEclEaNER available Crystal Clean, a quality housecleaning service. We don’t cut corners. Weekly or bi-weekly. We use environmentally friendly products. Bethany 265-0960.
MalIN PaINTINg Most ceiling & wall repairs, wallpaper removal, oil-based and latex finishes, staining, varnishing. Fully insured, many local references. Safe, secure, fast service. Call 226-8332. Reg. #19226.
EasT sIdE HaNdYMaN 34 years experience. Repairs, upgrades & renovations. Small jobs welcome. References. Insured. Reg. #3052. 524-6421.
dOROTHY’s clEaNINg
l.a.d. MasONRY sERVIcEs
sTONE MasON 30 yrs. exp. Stone, brick, veneers, walls, fireplaces, patios, chimneys, pavers. Design work. Reg. #7445. Call 641-0362. lousstonework.com
David Onken Painting
HOusE clEaNINg Experienced. Local references. Free estimates. Call Lilly, 401-419-2933.
Interior/Exterior Lead Certified Carpentry Renovations Gutter Cleaning â– Chimney Pointing Roof Leaks Repaired
ElEcTRIcal sERVIcEs All types. Energy efficient & security lighting & new circuits. Master licenses: RI #A3338, MA #16083A. Insured. Call Larry 529-2087.
suPERB HOusEPaINTINg
Reg. #19031
248-5248
High end workmanship. Small jobs a specialty. Call Ron 751-3242. Reg. #18128.
davidokenpainting.com
Harold Greco, Jr.
Prompt, Reliable Quality work
Levine Painting Co., Inc. Interior, Exterior, Residential/Commercial Wallpaper Hanging, Power Washing, Staining 25 Years Experience
(401) 885-1580 • (401) 323-6100 cell R.I. Lic 7140 Liab/ Work Comp Insured
The Finest in New England craftmanship
Boreal Remodeling General Home Repair, including Kitchens, Baths, Decks & Additions Reg. # 22013
Michael Packard • (401) 441-7303 52
East Side Monthly August 2015
Insured
Plaster Perfection ★ ★
Small Repair Specialist
Emergency Water & Vandalism Repairs
Insurance Quotes ★ Mold Inspections
Historic Restorations Painting
738-0369 Senior ★ Veteran ★ Cash Discounts
Reg. #4114
★
Member BBB ★ Est. 1946
Quality Materials Perfection is Everything! 33 Years Experience
East Side References ✎ Reg. #17730
LEE’S CLEANING SERVICE Basic house cleaning & more. Reasonable rates. References.
Over 20 years experience.
Call Lee 868-5127 785-1230 PERsONal assIsTaNcE PaRT-TIME PERsONal assIsTaNT Hourly, daily or more! Too busy to wait for a delivery, sit at the DMV, shop or run your errands? Many references. Call 270-1120.
BusINEss sERVIcEs
RENTals
lawN & gaRdEN
Vinny’s Landscaping aRcHITEcT on the East side! Residential & commercial. Additions, renovations & new construction. Call Dave: 401-5957070. dave@ds-arch.com
PROPERTY MaNagER Available. On call 24/7. Rent collection. Rentals, evictions, maintenance. Call 421-0092.
THE lauNdRY cluB audIO/VIdEO HElP If you need some help with your TV, home theater or stereo, call me at 401-383-4102. Jon Bell, Simply Sight & Sound. Reasonable rates. 30 years of experience.
cusTOM slIPcOVERs Work directly with seamstress and save! Purchase fabric elsewhere. Linda Toti, 508-695-2474.
lEaTHERwORKs, llc A leather and vinyl restoration company. We specialize in funiture, automobiles, boats and aircraft. Visit us at LeatherWorksRI.com, or call Robert at 401 837-0548.
JOBS BY JIM Garages & Attics Cleaned Unwanteds Removed Small Demolitions - Garages, Sheds, etc. Appliances & Lawn Mowers
Is now offering free laundry & dry cleaning pick-up & delivery service to the East Side and downtown areas. Call 272-2520 for details.
CHRIS’ LAMP REPAIR We Make House Calls!!! ✯ Repairing all types of Lamps ✯ Vintage Lighting Specialist ✯ Chandelier Repairs ✯ Serving the East Side for over 15 years ✯ Fully Insured
(401) 831-8693
Landscape Construction New Lawns Installed Excavating ● Power Raking Augering & Hammering Services Seed & Sod ● Fertilizing ● Planting Rototilling ● Loads Delivered ●Loam ●Sand ●Stone ●Etc. ●Free Estimates
497-1461 ● 231-1851
Call 272-1510
sENIOR caRE EldER caRE aVaIlaBlE Very kind, patient, mature woman seeks position with elderly person. Intelligent, cheerful, reliable, with 20 years experience, including several long-term positions. Impeccable references. Please call 781-3392 or 497-3392.
KINd caRE ~ sENIORs
PET caRE
Appointments, errands, shopping, cleaning & maint. Refs. Safety bars installed. Reg #3052. 559-0848.
Paws-N-claws, llc
FEELING OVERWHELMED???!!! Need your cellar, attic or garage cleaned, but... can’t quite get to it?? You can call
Cell 401-742-7258 Reg. #4614
Counselor on the Debris of Life
❖Batteries ❖Etc.
& BOBCAT SERVICES
OFFICE SPACE Single-room office space available in Wayland Square neighborhood. Private, sun-filled room with bay window. Part of ground-floor agency offices in classic Victorian house facing Angell Street. All utilities included except phone. Bathroom and kitchenette provided. $600/mo. Perfect for consultant, grad student, independentcontractor. Non smoker.
www.chrislamprepair.com
TAKE-IT-AWAY-TOM at 401-434-8156 Mobile 316-2273
❖Motors ❖Machines
OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE Single-room in Wayland Square. Private, sun-filled room with bay window. Part of ground-floor agency offices in classic Victorian house facing Angell St. All utilities except phone. Kitchenette & bath. $600/mo. Perfect for consultant, independent contractor, grad student. Non smoker. 272-1510
Dog walking/pet sitting. Professional, reliable pet care. Insured & bonded. Call 401-3699000 or www.pawsnclawsri.com
waNTEd I BuY BOOKs
MIscEllEaNEOus PaRKINg/sTORagE Congdon St., $125 covered carport. Benefit St. (north end), $115/mo. Call Roger, 339-4068. rogernc@mac.com
Old, used and almost new. Also buying photography, art, etc. Call 401-286-9329. jcminich1@gmail.com
usEd MusIc waNTEd! Round Again Records needs your used CDs and records. Cash paid. Call 351-6292.
August 2015 East Side Monthly
53
The easT sider
Ray Watson of the Mount Hope Neighborhood Association
Ray Watson Opens the Door, Then Helps Those Who Enter By Nancy Kirsch
Who does the Mount Hope Neighborhood Association serve? There’s no ideal person. We have people in need, we have people from outof-state coming to see works of art and someone gave a real estate investment class for individuals. We [recently]
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East Side Monthly August 2015
sponsored the fifth in a series of hiphop events focusing on nonviolence and promoting constructive music. We do our best to serve whoever walks through the door. We’ve witnessed the killings of many unarmed, black men by police officers in cities around the country. Where do we go from here? We have to put the blame on the decisions that people make. Society is doing less [now] than we did in the past. Advancements were made during the Civil Rights Era. Then we got lackadaisical, but the forces of evil don’t take time off. We need to stay vigilant – there are other battles to fight.
Do you still feel we live in a moral society, given the recent murders of the nine black churchgoers in Charleston, SC? Things of that nature wake people up and force us to have dialogue about issues that are just as real as they were in the ‘60s. We’re starting to have these dialogues in a manner that’s not inflammatory or derogatory but respectful of experiences that people have had in this country; that’s progress. Does having a person of color as the mayor of Providence make a difference? I think it helps, but I don’t think it’s the answer; I’m about the content of a person’s character. I think having physical representatives of communities of
color and disadvantaged communities definitely can help. The MHNA is very low-key; is that deliberate? We’re still battling the perception that we’re a dysfunctional organization. We’re not what we were five years ago. We’ve got no ulterior motive; we’re just looking to make the community the best it can be. I’m trying to work to the point where they don’t need me any more. Find Mount Hope Neighborhood Association at Facebook.com/MHNAinc Nancy Kirsch is a Providence-based award-winning writer. Contact her at writernancy@gmail.com
Photography by Michael Cevoli
Ray Watson, 35, is the part-time Executive Director of Mount Hope Neighborhood Association (MHNA), which focuses on workforce and economic development, health and wellness, art and culture, and community and social services. In his private life, he is one of 15 members of the Providence Journal’s sounding board that offers ideas and advice about the paper’s Race in Rhode Island series.
“New technology gives us the best opportunity to diagnose disease.” ~ Brian Murphy, MD
World class medical imaging …. focusing on quality. Rhode Island Medical Imaging is the only radiology practice in Rhode Island to continually make major investments in cutting edge technology. Every time RIMI upgrades imaging equipment, our world class radiologists are able to make diagnoses that just were not possible before in a much shorter time. RIMI’s commitment to world-class imaging means that you get the right exam done correctly the first time – ultimately saving you time and money. Your health is too important to leave to outdated equipment. You have a choice in your imaging provider. Ask your doctor to send you to the ONLY diagnostic imaging Center of Excellence in Rhode Island.
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401.432.2400
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Residential PRoPeRties ltd.
FREEMAN PKWY Stately 1920’s Colonial combines period detail, extensive renovation and amenities galore! Custom designer kitchen opens to spacious family room addition. Master suite w/sitting room, rec room w/full kitchen, in-law unit w/separate entrance. $1,150,000
WINFIELD Outstanding 1982 Contemporary with soaring ceilings, skylights, dramatic spaces. Sunny open layout. Sleek cook’s kitchen & formal dining room opens to large private deck. Master bedroom on main level. Integral garage. Superb! $799,000
ANGELL Delightful Stick Style Cottage c1884 with charming details. 5 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, beautiful wood floors, classically renovated kitchen and baths. Beautiful garden, two car garage. Walk to Wayland Square. Impeccable! $789,000
ORIOLE 1910 Cottage style in popular Patterson Park! Period detail plus redone kitchen and baths. Open 1st floor layout with adjoining 4 season porch overlooking garden/yard. Master suite. Updated mechanicals, central air, new roof contracted and paid for. A charmer! $679,900
HOLLY Gracious 1930 Colonial combines period detail with custom finishes. Cook’s kitchen with professional appliances opens to inviting dining area overlooking landscaped patio/gardens. Master suite with ample closets and storage. Great rec room. Total charmer! $675,000
ALUMNI Gracious 1920 Colonial on treed corner adjacent to Moses Brown. Detailed and sunny interior with 1st floor den/library overlooking patio & garden, master suite, loftlike 3rd floor. 2 car garage. Walk to universities, shops and restaurants. A true Charmer! $675,000
BROOKWAY Surprisingly spacious mid-century modern home. 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths. Sunny open layout. Hardwood and parquet floors. Stone fireplace. Large eat-in kitchen. 1st floor master suite. Integral garage. Fenced yard. $589,000
GROTTO Charming historic Cape (c1900) on a lovely 1/4 acre lot. 5 bedrooms, 2.5 baths. Appealing details. Cozy corner fireplace. Hardwood floors throughout. Large front porch. Gas heat. Detached garage. Opportunity! $489,000
ASTRAL Charming Colonial on coveted East Side street. 3 beds, 2 full baths, kitchen with breakfast room, dining room, living room & year-round sunroom. Hardwoods, new windows, new roof & central air. Finished basement, 2 car garage, backyard access to JCC park! $489,000
140 Wickenden Street Providence 401.274.6740
Rhode Island’s Real Estate Company®
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