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FEATURES
NEWS & LIFE
Retail Revival A Pawtucket mini-mall doubles as an incubator space for BIPOC-owned biz
18 CO V E R S TO R Y
Black-Owned Businesses Conversations about the hurdles and joys of Black entrepreneurship
28 FOOD & DRINK
In the Kitchen Self-taught Rhody chef wins big with short ribs on national TV
54 A R T & C U LT U R E
Rhody Reads Celebrating six local authors for Black History Month
Glimpse of a Designed by Delsie event, Ph oto by Jamal and Lashana, cou rte sy o f P e a rl Fa rq uha rso n
CONTENTS
50 8
Ph oto by Bri ttan ny Tayl or
Ph oto cou rte sy of She Co m m uni ty Cl ub
34
Ph oto cou rtesy of Bi nti m an i
News & Life
Food & Drink
Home & Style
Art & Culture
8 Local creatives seek community
30 RHODY RECIPE: Cater
38 HOME: Coast meets
50 Providence lifestyle
in a social club for women of color
to the vegan love in your life with this chocolate mousse
luxe in a Westerly home by the shoreline
photographer helps clients capture their true selves
42 SHOP: PVD skincare company founded through personal recovery
52 MUSIC: Learn about an important trio of Rhode Island Music Hall of Famers
44 INFLUENCER: Get up to speed with the founder of Black Girls Do Bike Newport
56 CALENDAR: This
10 THE PUBLIC’S RADIO: New measures aim to ramp up testing, address health care worker shortage in Rhode Island
12 RHODY PETS: Tips for keeping Rover safe on a snowy romp; Pet of the Month: Charlie! 14 RHODY GEM: An African apparel and home goods boutique in Woonsocket
32 Eight fireside spots worth bundling up and dining outside for Valentine’s Day
34 Working toward a more equitable food industry through BIPOC incubator programs
46 BEAUTY: The bliss of discovering a salon in EP that specializes in curly hair
month’s must-do’s
57 #HEYRHODYPHOTOS: A colorful mosaic from our talented followers via Instagram
On the Cover: Julia Broome and Amber Jackson photographed at Kin Southern Table + Bar, Providence in January, by Nicholas DelGiudice.
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Hey Rhody FEBRUARY 2022 |
HeyRhody.com
February 2022
Publishers Barry Fain Richard Fleischer John Howell
General Manager & Creative Director Nick DelGiudice
Editor in Chief Elyse Major
Managing Editor Abbie Lahmers
Editor Karen Greco Digital Media Manager Sascha Roberts Advertising Design Director Layheang Meas
Senior Editorial Designer Abigail Brown
Senior Designer Taylor Gilbert
Now Shipping Seafood Anywhere in the United States
Account Managers Shelley Cavoli
RHODYOYSTERS.COM
Louann DiMuccio-Darwich Ann Gallagher
Pond Side Pick Up, Reservations and Gift Certificates Available
Kristine Mangan Olf Elizabeth Riel
629 Succotash Road, Wakefield • Rhode Island • 401-783-4202
Interested in advertising? Email Marketing@ProvidenceOnline.com Contributing Photographers Ernest Brown
Read McKendree
Rick Farrell
Nigel@Zoo Media
Christy Gagnon
Steve Sabo
Jamal and Lashana
Sabrina Scolari Photography
Hugue Marsan Photography Chelsea Mendes Photography
Rhode Island’s New Brewery & Tavern Come In & Check Out Our New Winter Menu Items!
Brittanny Taylor Angel Tucker
Contributing Writers Ken Abrams
Karen Kalunian
Li Goldstein
Allie Lewis
Amber Jackson
Hugh Minor
Patty J
Liz Murray
Belinda Jones
Tanaka Sotinwa
Looking for an internship? Email Elyse@ProvidenceOnline.com Distribution Services Special Delivery
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Presented by Providence Media, publishers of The Bay, Providence Monthly, and So Rhode Island 1944 Warwick Avenue, Warwick, RI 02889 401-305-3391 • Mail@ProvidenceOnline.com HeyRhody.com Copyright ©2022 by Providence Media. All rights reserved.
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Craft Beer, Wine & Spirits, and of course, food done right! TRIVIA ON WEDNESDAY NIGHTS LIVE MUSIC ON THURSDAYS Mon 5pm-11pm • Wed & Thurs 3pm-10:30pm Fri 3pm-11:30pm • Sat 11:30am-11:30pm • Sun 11:30am-9pm
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ARE YOU LOOKING FOR LOVE?
CONTRIBUTORS
CALL DEBRA
401-289-0900 Complimentary consultation She personally interviews and screens her clients Both men and women are guaranteed to meet potential partners
KEN ABRAMS Ken Abrams recently completed a 33-year gig as a middle school teacher but his passion for educating remains evident. Also a music enthusiast, in “Making History” (page 52), the Cranston resident schools us on three honorees of color in the RI Music Hall of Fame. Listen to Abrams Tuesday evenings, 6-9pm on WRIU 90.3 FM where he spins a mix of folk, roots, and rock.
Hand crafted matches, no computer program or software
LI GOLDSTEIN Take note of the name Li Goldstein. Our former star intern is wrapping up her time at Brown where she studies English on a nonfiction writing track. For her first assignment as a freelancer, Goldstein interviewed Brittanny Taylor, a photographer whose aim is true in helping clients capture their most authentic selves. Read “No Filter Needed” on page 50.
Debra L’Heureux, Rhode Island’s top Matchmaker for Get Ready To Date has been in the business of helping people find love for over 18 years! JOIN MY MATCHMAKING DATABASE AT GETREADYTODATE.COM
AMBER JACKSON A participant in the Great Resignation, Amber Jackson left her full-time position at Brown to devote her energ y to being the owner and culture curator of The Black Leaf Tea & Culture Shop. Passionate about flavor, community, Black culture, and championing other businesses, in “Tea and Conversation” (page 18), Jackson shares her story with an enlightening roundtable of colleagues.
TANAKA SOTINWA Tanaka Sotinwa is a British-Zimbabwean who has called Rhody home since 2017. Having previously enjoyed a career in fashion, the mum of three enjoys writing about fashion and lifestyle at WhatMummyWore. In “A Natural Fit” (page 46), she shares what it means to find a salon that understands your hair.
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ONLINE
Web Extra: 10+ reasons to get out of bed and indulge in brunch eats and bevvies across the East Bay
NEWSLETTER:
P h o to by @ m a r kd p h o to s
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New Paper, Here’s Why: Feel The Supply Chain Woes Container ships lined up on the coast, shipping containers stacked in ports, a slowly disappearing stock of certain items on store shelves, computer chips delaying automobile manufacturing, and now the paper that you hold in your hands. These are all examples of the global supply chain issues that we currently face. If I were to get into the Wayback Machine and travel what seems like an eternity to the beginning of 2020, there would be a version of myself who never considered that a global supply chain disruption would be coming. Even if I could have predicted such a thing , the thought would not have crossed my mind that it would affect a local publishing company in little Rhody. Yet here we are. Some of you may have astutely noticed that the stack of bound paper you now hold in your hands feels a bit different; there is something that seems off with your monthly magazine. You are indeed holding something that departs from the norm of our typical publication. The paper normally used is a lighter weight coated stock – of which, unfortunately, paper mills have completely dialed back the production. As it was explained to me by our printing partner, our typical paper is almost impossible to acquire for the near future and the order that was placed through another purchasing
partner to fulfill our printing needs is currently stalled amongst other products in the aforementioned shipping gridlock. Luckily for us here at Providence Media, our printing partner is resourceful and was able to procure a temporary replacement. This has allowed us to continue to bring the local news and lifestyle coverage that we all know and love to distribution points near you and to your homes. Normally a change in paper stocks wouldn’t be something that our company felt the need to address directly, but in these uncertain times we didn’t want anyone to see a difference and fear the worst. Providence Monthly, So Rhode Island, The Bay Magazine, and Hey Rhody aren’t going anywhere. We will simply roll with the punches and continue to do our best to put a little bit of joy and entertainment in your hands each month. Thank you, readers!
Nick DelGiudice General Manager & Creative Director
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"We had the pleasure of meeting Alicia Reynolds in September when we decided to downsize to a new home and sell our current home- a huge undertaking! From the first day she made us feel comfortable and confident in all the decisions she guided us through. Her professionalism as a real estate agent is what helped us through the thick and thin, the ups and downs that can happen with selling one's home and buying another at the same time. She answered all calls, texts immediately when we had many questions and concerns. She calmed all our frazzled nerves too! We cannot say enough in praise of the job that Alicia did! We highly recommend her to any potential clients in the future! Thank you Alicia."
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NEWS & LIFE
Co m m u n i t y C l u b | T h e P u b l i c ’ s R a d i o | R h o d y P e t s | R h o d y G e m | M i n i - M a l l
8 Women gather for a community moon ritual Photo courtesy of She Community Club
NEWS & LIFE
Power in Numbers
S h e Co m m u n i t y C l u b u p l i f t s R h o d e I s l a n d wo m e n o f co l o r t h ro u g h wo r k s h o p s , we l l n e s s , a n d c a m a ra d e r i e By Abbie Lahmers
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A summer fundraiser in Providence spotlighted and supported multicultural vendors
Photo courtesy of She Community Club
O
n a brisk October evening , a small group of women gathered around a bonfire under the full moon to hear their tarot cards read or have henna tattoos done, to laugh and indulge in baked treats together, enjoying the fruits of their creative peers’ labors. This first Community Moon Ritual hosted by She Community Club was also the first time many members had come together in a space like this, designed specifically for women of color to connect and share their talents. “Ever since I was young , I always imagined a space where someone who looked like me could have the access to express all aspects of themselves while also having community, safety, and people who looked out for each other,” says Manal Jakhar, a first generation Pakistani-American who founded She Community Club in 2020 as a network of women of color in Rhode Island. Seeing a trend in the surge of women of color, especially Black women, starting their own businesses before the pandemic and that these businesses were often the hardest hit in COVID’s aftermath, Jakhar wanted to forge a community around empowerment and holistic modes of healing. “I am one of the first females in my family to get a higher education, to live alone, be independent and make money as a creative,” Jakhar shares. “Honestly, it gets incredibly lonely, and I didn’t see a lot of spaces that gave women like us the tools and support to thrive in these environments while also addressing a lot of the mental health and other barriers we face as women of color.” Despite these barriers, Jakhar notes, she still sees her peers thriving in their creative and entrepreneurial pursuits. “Imagine what could happen if we started learning from each other?” This takes shape in a variety of in-person events like the Community Moon Ritual,
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a summer fundraiser at Revival Brewing Company in Providence featuring multicultural women vendors and performers, journaling sessions, and other unique pro gramming. Digital platforms have allowed members to continue to share ideas amid the Omicron wave of the pandemic via Zoom workshops and even a Digital Community App that lets members connect based on occupations and interests. At the core of She Community Club are three principles Jakhar prioritizes: community, health and wellness, and development. In upholding the first, she emphasizes the importance of representation over inclusion in the multicultural events they host. “Being included is basically being invited to the party, but representation is when you come to the party and hear your songs and taste your favorite foods and that’s when you know you’re home,” she says. For instance, a Diwali event they held invited South Asian women to share what the holiday meant to them. Second, health and wellness embodies ever ything from culturally sensitive therapy to Mindful Movement Mondays on Instagram to “hosting yoga and meditation sessions g uided by women of color who are ancestrally connected to the knowledge,” says Jakhar. And the development tenet spans a range of topics, including financial wellness, personal equity, starting and marketing a new business, and multicultural cooking and beauty workshops. Jakhar looks forward to more opportunities to gather in person in the future, though in the meantime, every online workshop, uplifting IG post, and donation is a step toward breaking down the generational patterns she and many others have faced and begin the work of creating a new narrative for women of color – one that doesn’t have to begin with loneliness. SheCommunity.club | @shecommunityclub
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NEWS & LIFE
New measures aim to ramp up testing, address health care worker shortage in Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee announced new steps the state is taking to boost testing capacity in Rhode Island and address staffing shortages at hospitals across the state. In part nership with The Public’s Radio • ThePublicsRadio.org • By Nina Sparling
Governor McKee announces new measures to address staffing shortages and COVID-19 testing issues at a news conference in Woonsocket
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Photo by Nina Sparling
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hode Island hospitals are experiencing major staffing challenges – just as the number of COVID-19 cases balloons statewide. McKee said at a news conference Thursday [December 30, 2021] that his administration is aware of the problem, and taking steps towards addressing staffing needs. “Right now it’s not easy,” McKee said. “It’s a challenge.” McKee said he’s been in contact with Rhode Island National Guard Adjutant General Chris Callahan about providing staffing support to hospitals in the state. “His team is having follow up discussions directly with the hospitals to get from them the specific job categories that they need support with,” McKee said. The governor signed an executive order last week [December 22] providing liability protection to hospitals across the state as they make adjustments in response to the COVID-19 crisis. According to the executive order, fear of potential litigation has further amplified staffing shortages. The nurses union at Rhode Island Hospital said in a statement that the hospital “had no choice” but to make several changes to address the shortage, including expanding nurse-to-patient ratios, placing ICU patients in “non-traditional ICUs,” combining surgical and trauma units, and reassigning nurses to the parts of the hospital where the need is greatest. “ There simply isn’t enough staff to handle the amount of patients coming into the hospital,” Frank Sims, president of the United Nurses and Allied Professionals Local 5098, said in a news release. Sims added, “ We want to be abundantly clear about what these changes mean for the health and safety of all Rhode Islanders. It means the health care system in our state has reached a breaking point, forcing our biggest hospital to
take drastic measures to try to meet the needs of Rhode Islanders in need of medical care.” As of Thursday [December 30], 317 people were hospitalized with COVID-19 in Rhode Island, 44 of them in intensive care units. Further complicating the staffing shortages, McKee said, is the financial pressure that traveling nurse companies can place on hospitals. Often, he said, they charge much higher hourly rates – and offer compelling bonuses for staff nurses to join their ranks. The governor also announced the Rhode Island Convention Center will open as a mass testing and vaccination site in the new year. Some testing sites will also remain open on New Year’s Day. “I would expect that we’re going to be making progress, immediate progress,” McKee said. “But that’s not to say that we haven’t stubbed the toe here a little bit on the testing.” Demand for COVID-19 tests has skyrocketed in recent weeks, leaving many people waiting in long lines, often outside in the cold. The Rhode Island Department of Health said earlier this week COVID-19 testing levels have reached an all-time high and encouraged people who are not required to get a PCR test to get a rapid test to help reduce delays in turnaround times for results. The governor announced a contract with a New Jersey-based lab that is already processing tests. The state plans to add a third lab in the coming weeks. The governor said a key strateg y going forward will be working with several communities to set up rapid testing sites and vaccination clinics. “ While we’re testing more people daily than at any point during this pandemic, municipal leaders need to be part of the process to help the capacity issues,” Gov. McKee said. Investigative producer Nina Sparling can be reached at NSparling@RIPR .org
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NEWS & LIFE
RhodyPets: SNOW DAYS FOR DOGS Simple precautions keep your pup prancing through the snow By Belinda Jones, Animal Rescue Rhode Island
RHODY PET OF THE MONTH: CHARLIE Playful German Shepherd seeks experienced home
Attention German Shepherd lovers! Meet Charlie. This young boy is still very much a puppy. Just shy of a year old, this handsome dog is very playful and smart, too. He’s a little nervous with strangers at first meeting, but once he feels comfortable, he’s a sweet boy. Charlie is best suited to an experienced dog owner who can continue to show him the ropes. His dream home has a fencedin backyard where he can run and play; it’s so much fun to watch him go! If you have been searching for a boy like Charlie, you should meet him – he might just be your true forever friend! Learn more at HeartofRI.org or contact at 401-467-3670 or heartofriadoption@gmail.com. If you have been looking to adopt or know of an animal in need, please contact Karen from Animal Talk directly at animaltalk1920@gmail.com
Dogs and snow seem like a picturesque combination – snowflake-dusted noses, and paws leaving a “follow me” trail of prints across shimmering blankets of white, but there are a few things to consider before you go walking in a winter wonderland. THAT’S NO SNOW CONE
Many dogs enjoy an impromptu sidewalk slushie, chomping at the refreshing ice, but make sure they are not lapping up any swirls of blue or green, especially around cars and driveways – antifreeze is sweet-tasting but toxic to pets. Scattered rock salt can also upset your dog’s stomach; they can accidentally ingest this grit
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by licking their paws clean after a walk. Simply wipe off their feet with a soft towel before stepping back into the house. The action will also help warm their chilly paw pads. SNOW BOOTS
Speaking of keeping those tootsies toasty, dog booties are a great option for warmth and pro tection. But pups often do an awkward prance on the first wear, finding it hard to find their footing without their natural sensor y contact with the ground. One way around this is to pop on the leash and break into a little trot so their instinctive rhythm overrides their confusion or initial discomfort.
WAX ON, WAX OFF
You wouldn’t be without your lip balm or hand cream in the winter, so soothe (or better yet, prevent) nose and paw dr yness and cracking with all-natural moisturizer, like a nose and paw moisturizer specifically formulated for dogs and cats. Apply a light layer and gently massage until absorbed. MARK THE SPOT
Some dogs are war y about exploring a yard buried deep in snow, especially when the drifts are deeper than they are tall. Queer Eye’s Jonathan Van Ness recently modeled the solution for his little terrier Elton by Hey Rhody FEBRUARY 2022 |
HeyRhody.com
Photo by Karen Kalunian
By Karen Kalunian
Where every day is
shoveling clear a square of grass. The dog has a designated patch to scamper for an efficient potty break. WINTER WORK OUT
While some dogs get an extra spring in their step in the snow, others shiver and want to head straight back inside. You might feel the same way about an hour-long walk when icy gusts are chasing you down the street! Interactive toys like puzzle feeders are great for focus and mental stimulation (and useful for dogs that tend to eat too quickly). Indoor games and toys can help release energ y prior to that cozy afternoon snooze! Hey Rhody FEBRUARY 2022 |
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grooming
boarding
daycare
training DOGTOPIA OF WARWICK
30 Jefferson Blvd, Warwick 401-903-4900 | Dogtopia.com/Warwick
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NEWS & LIFE
Geri’s Bluffing Boutique Af ri c an Ap p arel & H ome G oods What it is: A shop featuring a vibrant collection of custom clothing for women, men, and children, along with home decor, art, accesso ries, and gifts representing a range of styles from regions all over Africa.
W h e re to f i n d i t : Housed in a brick building in the heart of downtown Woonsocket, next to Chan’s Fine Oriental Dining and a short walk from Stadium Theatre, Geri’s is the first door on your right inside the Main Street entrance.
No two dresses, designer bags, or hair clips are alike at this African Bohemian boutique, where owner Geraldine Barclay-King takes care in stocking one-of-a-kind pieces and helping customers leave with a purchase that’s truly special to them. Barclay-King opened the boutique with the goal of “transforming lives through fashion, art, and cultural education,” she explains. “ The word ‘ bluffing ’ means the desire to not only look good but to feel good. It is a slang commonly used by Liberians in West Africa to describe someone’s projected confidence to mask pain or hurt they are experiencing.” Whether you’re looking for a headscarf or standout dress shirt, earrings or wood beaded purse – or open to being surprised – it’s impossible not to find a piece that brings you joy, or to leave Geri’s without learning something new.
Geri’s Bluffing Boutique 285 Main Street, Suite 2, Woonsocket 488-4182 • BluffingBoutique.com
Every neighborhood has that secret, hidden, cool and unusual, or hole-in-the-wall spot that locals love. We’re on the hunt for Rhody Gems! Email Abbie@ProvidenceOnline.com to suggest yours and we just might feature it!
Photo by Ernest Brown, courtesy of Geri’s Bluffing Boutique
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WED. – FRI. 10AM-5PM | SAT. 10AM-4PM SUN. 11AM-4PM | CLOSED MONDAYS & TUESDAYS
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NEWS & LIFE
Making Space S t i l l o n M a i n ow n e r Le s l i e M oore e nv i s i o n s a n ew m o d e l fo r community d eve l o p m e nt i n d ow ntow n Pawtucket By Abbie Lahmers
The upper level of Still on Main hosts a food court and several retail shops
On the lower level, find the newly opened Underground Cafe along with a variety of art vendors
Photos by Abbie Lahmers
Y
ou might not expect to find an eclectic mini-mall in the heart of Pawtucket, one complete with two levels of small and micro businesses and a food court of multicultural cuisine, with natural lighting from sweeping skylights and cozy seating spread out across an inviting courtyard primed for activity. Thanks to the efforts of owner Leslie Moore and the wide-ranging entrepreneurs who set up shop, Still on Main is in the center of a move in Pawtucket toward revitalization. “What is clear to me is Pawtucket is in a sort of space where a lot of new things are possible, and I can see investment – infrastructure investment – happening all around the downtown area, and that’s exciting,” says Moore. “I do know, however, that there’s a very typical story of what happens when that kind of development happens.” The pattern Moore describes is of city dollars going toward infrastructure, yet business owners who don’t live in that city are the ones who profit from it, a pattern of gentrification. “And man, I was hoping for a different story for Pawtucket,” Moore continues, “one where those investments really do make change but that it is local people and the people who have been most challenged who benefit from the investments the city and state are making in the area.”
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When Moore bought Still on Main, more formally known as the William Grant Still building on 250 Main Street, she saw promise. She started shaping the spaces, taking on many of the upfront building costs herself, to create affordable units of varying sizes for new and what she calls “unlikely” entrepreneurs to test out concepts in a mini-mall setting hosting culturally diverse retailers, restaurateurs, and other trades. When the pandemic hit, she saw folks craving the community and escaping isolation by grabbing take-out food – and the cooks stepping up to meet the demand – so she started creating more kitchens, and the incubator space grew. There’s now more than a dozen businesses who have set up shop, offering a mix of products and services, from boutique clothing and art studios to hair braiding , juice and breakfast cafes to empanadas. With no “for rent” sign posted on the building , availability in Still on Main travels via word of mouth, as budding entrepreneurs show up with their ideas. “So then I find I’m the cheerleader. I say, that’s a great idea, and we don’t know if that’s going to work, but you should try it!” says Moore, who has fostered a supportive community for new entrepreneurs to start at square one. “There’s fear of failure, and I find – I’m an African-American woman – that when it’s felt
like things haven’t gone well for so long , that there can also be fear of success. You don’t even know what it looks like if things go well.” At Still on Main, success can look like a tiny studio reconfigured into a three-story playground area called Littles Playtime, which families can book for playdates and small gatherings in a safe, creative environment; or a new health food cafe called What the Teff, where the athlete-owner produces energ y bars and mentors people on wellness practices. The Underground Cafe is another new business that recently opened on the ground floor by and for folks in recovery craving coffee and also a nightlife scene, complete with dancing and a pizza oven. “That kind of thing really touches my heart that people are thinking ‘what does the community, in a broad way, need?’” says Moore. “My belief is that gentrification isn’t just an unstoppable wave; it really depends on ownership and values of owners,” says Moore, who looks forward to seeing the space continue to blossom with fresh ideas. “That’s what makes Still on Main special because we start to see what happens when local people, unlikely entrepreneurs, folks who haven’t [been able to] shape downtown areas start to bring their creativity to the city.” StillOnMain.shop
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Tea and Conversation A ROUNDTABLE OF BLACK ENTREPRENEURS DISCUSSING THE HURDLES, JOYS, AND IMPORTANCE OF YEAR-ROUND SUPPORT By Amber Jackson
THE STUNNING WORK OF WEDDING PLANNER PEARL FARQUHARSON Photo by Hugue Marsan Photography, courtesy of Designed by Delsie
PEARL “DELSIE” FARQUHARSON PUTS ON THE FINISHING TOUCHES Photo by Chelsea Mendes Photography, courtesy of Designed by Delsie
E
ver y business out there has its own origin stor y, many of which are centered on the idea of independence and impact. I am a proud participant in The Great Resignation. At the close of 2021, I left the position at Brown University that brought me to the Creative Capital from the Windy City to pursue my passion full time : The Black Leaf Tea & Culture Shop, an online loose leaf tea company that also creates spaces to engage the community and celebrate Black culture. Maneuvering through the entrepreneurial world as a new Black business owner is no walk in the park. Historically, access to funding and capital has been incredibly limited. According
A RARE MOMENT OF JUAN WILSON SITTING STILL Photo by Nigel@Zoo Media Photography, courtesy of JJUANtheBRAND
to SCORE, a resource partner with the US Small Business Administration, in 2020 41.3 percent of Black-owned businesses applied for an SBA loan, but only 8.4 percent received the full amount. Compare that to the 19.5 percent of white-owned businesses who applied for an SBA, and the 33 percent that received the full amount. Across the board, whether it was applying for new loans, the Paycheck Protection Program, or extension of credit lines, Blackowned business approval rates are drastically lower than our white counterparts. Even in crowdfunding , Black businesses received less community support than white businesses. While the notion of the side hustle may be
recent, hustling as a common money-making venture in Black communities is nothing new. Being from the South Side of Chicago, I grew up with a candy lady on the block, who provided our neighborhood with penny candy, snow cones, nachos, and hotdogs every spring and summer. “The hustle man” could be found at intersections and on the train selling everything from CDs and DVDs, to incense, oils, wash clothes, clothes… whatever you needed. These pillars of the Black community inspire young people to make money in a safe way. We all knew a kid in school that would sell chips and candy out of their backpacks, friends that did hair out of their homes, or community elders who would
provide unofficial daycare services for families. While these goods and services are essential to Black communities, they aren’t legally structured businesses, and knowledge of how to establish such entities isn’t always widely available. Of course there have always been Black craftspeople and business owners, even during chattel slavery. The Emancipation allowed those individuals to pursue their endeavors legally, but they were often met with tremendous backlash, costing some everything they had, including their lives. Yet, many persevered to suc-
cessful careers and long-standing legacies. I think of Madam C.J. Walker, who was not only the first female self-made millionaire in the US, but created an enterprise that allowed other Black women to become entrepreneurs as well. Another is Daymond John, the CEO of FUBU and one of the big fish of ABC’s Shark Tank. John not only invests in startup businesses, but also in the growth of the business owners. There’s Janice Bryant Howroyd, founder and CEO of Act1, the first Black woman-owned business to cross the billion-dollar threshold.
Individuals like these have not only persevered but fostered a reality of increased representation and success for many Black people that didn’t think such success was attainable. Starting a business requires a great amount of support from many structures. Juggling life, a business, and sometimes a full-time job is truly a balancing act. A sustainable ecosystem of support between government, Black business owners, and community is attainable with a genuine effort. I recently chatted about all of this – over tea, of course – with friends and colleagues.
“FOOD + VIBES + SOUL” ARE SERVED UP FIVE DAYS A WEEK AT KIN IN PROVIDENCE Photos courtesy of Julia Broome, Kin
WAYS TO SUPPORT Did you buy from a Black-owned business this week? SHOP LOCAL WRITE POSITIVE REVIEWS SHARE ON SOCIAL MEDIA TELL FRIENDS REFER BUSINESSES
VIBRANT ACTIVEWEAR AND ATHLEISURE APPAREL, AVAILABLE AT KOHL’S Photo courtesy of Roam Loud
Meet Julia Broome Julia Broome is the owner of Kin Southern Table + Bar. Located in the heart of downtown Providence, Kin ser ves up delicious Southern cuisine and Southern hospitality. Broome explains that she opened Kin because she understands the importance of ownership and creating opportunities for yourself.
Meet Pearl Farquharson Photo by Sabrina Scolari Photography, courtesy of Designed by Delsie
Photography by Nick DelGiudice
Pearl Farquharson is the premier event designer and owner of Designed by Delsie. Her company emphasizes hospitality, innovation, and logistical precision to orchestrate unforgettable events. After looking for opportunities in the event and hospitality realm and constantly being told “no,” she made it happen for herself. Starting her business has also allowed her to make an impact as a Black woman in the luxur y event space, support other minority- and women-owned businesses, and instill a value of ability over experience.
GETTING STARTED Inspired to start your own business? The following resources may have the assistance you’re looking for.
HOPE & MAIN: Rhode Island’s premier culinary incubator with a mission to empower an inclusive community of entrepreneurs to jumpstart and cultivate thriving food businesses that are the foundation of a more just, sustainable, and resilient local food economy. MakeFoodYourBusiness.org
THE MUSE FOUNDATION OF RHODE ISLAND: A resource designed to cultivate creativity and innovation in communities of color through philanthropic investment. MUSEFoundation.org
PAPITTO OPPORTUNITY CONNECTION: A non-profit private foundation dedicated to listening and working together with Rhode Island’s Black, Indigenous and People of Color communities to empower and create individual success stories by investing in education, job skills training, and entrepreneurial ventures. POCFoundation.com
Meet Toyin Omisore Toyin Omisore is the owner and “ Wanderer in Chief ” of nationally acclaimed activewear and athleisure apparel brand Roam Loud. Roam Loud encourages moving through the world on one’s own terms and to feel good doing it. For Omisore, starting a business allowed her the freedom of personal expression and making decisions.
Meet Juan Wilson
Photo courtesy of Roam Loud
Juan Wilson is the owner of JJUANtheBRAND and founder of The Muse Foundation of Rhode Island, an organization that focuses on trust-based philanthropy to empower communities of color. He started as a graphic designer out of high school, and initially started a business for the love of his art, then converted it to a paid creative ser vice.
Photo by Nigel@Zoo Media Photography, courtesy of JJUANtheBRAND
RHODE ISLAND BLACK BUSINESS ASSOCIATION: A non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the business opportunities and vitality of Black-owned and minority businesses in Rhode Island through access to capital, contracting, business development resources, entrepreneur training, business advocacy, meaningful investor services, and workforce development. RI-BBA.org
RI HUB: A network of innovators, investors, students, citizens, and those interested in building our economy through new ideas. RIHub.org SCORE BUSINESS MENTORING: A nonprofit that’s the nation’s largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors, dedicated to helping small businesses plan, launch, manage, and grow via mentoring and educational workshops. SBA.gov
SOCIAL ENTERPRISE GREENHOUSE: A network of entrepreneurs and business and community leaders who contribute time, expertise, and money to create jobs and support positive social change through social enterprise. SEGreenhouse.org
ROAM LOAD HAS APPEARED IN NATIONAL MAGAZINES INCLUDING COSMOPOLITAN AND SELF Photo courtesy of Roam Loud
DESIGNED BY DELSIE OFFERS EVENT PLANNING SERVICES WHICH INCLUDE DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Photo by Hugue Marsan Photography, courtesy of Designed by Delsie
LET’S TALK BUSINESS
AMBER JACKSON PROUDLY DEMOS HER BRAND Photo by Angel Tucker, courtesy of The Black Leaf Tea & Culture Shop
For many, the Black entrepreneurship experience is an act of love for ourselves and our community; it simply isn’t the smoothest path. And that’s what Black History Month is all about. It’s not just a reflection of our history and perseverance, but a celebration of our love for our culture and our people. In a society where so many barriers have systemically been placed to keep us in a corner, Black joy is an essential and radical form of resistance. I’ll kick things off by saying I find joy as a Black business owner in so many ways. I have the privilege of providing a space that young Black professionals know was made for them and I also get to amplify Black voices with my Tea Talks. Every time someone tells me the products I’ve designed by hand are their favorite, I do an internal happy dance. What brings you the most joy as a Black business owner? “I light up when I see people enjoying my food and singing ‘90s R&B at the top of their lungs because they’ve found a home in my space,” says Broome. “For me it’s the autonomy and independence to push the envelope,” says Wilson. “I am proud that I was able to invest $1 million in funds from clients into other minority- and women-owned businesses,” says Farquharson. “Seeing other Black people win is my greatest joy,” says Omisore. What are some things you would like to put out there to help create change? “Black businesses need to be spotlighted all year and not just during Black Histor y Month, and that we need space to advocate for our own needs,” says Broome. “Black businesses shouldn’t be a standing item on the list of priorities for the state because it’s trendy – and it should be promoted all year,” says Wilson. “Black businesses need to be taken seriously. Too often, Black businesses are seen with the presumption that the products or ser vices are subpar. This is simply not true,” says Farquharson. Because of this notion that Black-owned products are low quality, I go out of my way to ensure that I have the highest quality ingredients for my teas and provide the best customer ser vice that I can. The majority of us don’t have employees, have limited access to capital and resources, and still consistently provide premium quality products and ser vices – not only for our own reputation, but because we as a collective genuinely care about the products we provide, our customer’s experiences, and how Black businesses are perceived. Not only do we need the state to provide more financial resources but also make those resources accessible by reducing the stipulations. Often, small businesses become fatigued by the long list of requirements for grants. Remove the mile-high barriers and make the resources easier to obtain. Be invested in the sustainability of small and expanding Black-owned businesses. Not every grant needs to come with coaching. Many times we know what we need; we just need the funds to make it happen.
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FOOD & DRINK I n T h e K i tc h e n | R e c i p e | F i re s i d e D i n i n g | M e n to r s h i p
32 Sip and savor in igloos warmed with fireplaces Photo courtesy of Huck’s Filling Station
FOOD & DRINK
Food for the Soul
Ch ef Ro sco e G ay’ s i n s p i re d co o k i n g w i n s b ig on n ation a l TV By Karen Greco
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position. “I loved being in the kitchen, the rush of the tickets,” he says. But he notes that, given it was his first professional job, “they were very forgiving if I messed up.” He moved to Bell’s Café in Newport to work the line. The 100 orders a night he was accustomed to at Vibe became 100 orders an hour. “It was the best experience in the kitchen,” says Gay. “You work with a team to get those orders out. If I didn’t work there, I wouldn’t be the chef I am today.” Around 2017, Gay got licensed through a food incubator program at NeighborWorks Blackstone River Valley and began formally offering his ser vices as a caterer and private chef through his Ever y1sChef brand. He gained a reputation for his soul food, a style
of cooking he gravitated towards because “that’s what my father made.” As he learned other techniques and styles through his on-the-job training (he also worked at Skyline in Providence), his palate opened up. Now he calls his cooking style “soul food with a twist,” and enjoys mixing foods from different cultures, like infusing traditional French or Italian cooking with Caribbean flavors. YouTube, television cooks, copious amounts of cookbooks, and a lot of Googling taught him to cook, but it’s Gay’s passion and drive that make him Ever y1sChef. “ Whatever I do, I want to provide excellence,” he says. “It’s an extension of me on that plate.” Chef Roscoe Gay hosts an Every1sChef popup every Sunday at Still on Main in Pawtucket. Facebook: Every1sChef
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Photos courtesy of Roscoe Gay
R
hode Island chef Roscoe Gay never imagined he’d be cooking on national television. But in October, The Drew Barrymore Show contacted him with very specific instructions: cook a dish on air using the supermarket staple Ragu. The caveat, no pasta. Oh, and surprise! It was a cooking competition. Gay immediately thought: short ribs. But he had to come up with the recipe on the fly, because they could use only 10 ingredients – Gay’s short rib recipe uses double that number. “I had to get creative,” he says. The dish – tender ribs nestled in a quick-cook polenta – was a hit and Gay took home first place bragging rights as well as a $1000 check. “I was so tired,” Gay says of the television taping , noting that his father, who had terminal cancer, passed away that same week. “Part of me was so excited to be on T V, but part of me was like, I just want to go home.” There’s a twist to Gay’s stor y. This was a cooking competition for home cooks, and Gay qualified because, surprisingly, he has no formal training. Gay moved from his native Massachusetts to Rhode Island in 2014 to work as an analyst for CVS. But the desk job didn’t suit him. “I am not that person to be in a cubicle,” he says, noting that the job’s demands were intense. A Cake Boss addict, Gay took inspiration from Buddy Vilastro and beg an baking , finding time in the kitchen therapeutic. He posted his masterpieces on social media . “People just started contacting me,” he says, to create cakes for their special occasions. Gay is quick to note that success didn’t come easy. An avid home cook, he assumed baking was more art than science. He dispelled that myth with his first cake attempt. “I opened the oven and that red velvet cake was bubbling,” he says with a laugh. But Gay takes those mistakes in stride, noting that “the best lessons are the burnt ones.” Friends and family invested in Gay’s dream, donating and purchasing supplies. Eventually, his name got around and Providence’s Vibe Lounge contacted him about an executive chef
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FOOD & DRINK
Vegan Valentine
W
Tre at yo u r l ove to a p l ant-b as ed c ho co late m o u s s e d e s s e r t – p l u s swe ete n t h e d e a l w i t h t i c ket s to s a m p l e l o c a l ve g a n ve n d o rs
ho knew that tofu could make such a decadent and delicious dessert? This five-minute chocolate mousse blends silky smooth tofu with gooey chocolate, cocoa powder, and sweet blueberries. It’s vegan and gluten free, but it doesn’t skimp out on the feeling of indulgence you’d expect from a delicacy this rich. Premake and pop this sweet treat in the fridge (pro-tip: this mousse can sit overnight covered in plastic wrap; just remember to garnish before serving ).
By Liz M u r ray
C h o co l ate B l u e b e r r y S i l ke n To f u M o u s s e ING RE DIE NTS • 16 ounces organic silken tofu • 2 cups frozen or fresh blueberries • 1 cup vegan chocolate chips (or 5 ounces of chopped chocolate bar) • 2 Tbsp honey • 5 Tbsp cocoa powder • Optional garnish of shredded chocolate spirals, blueberries, and mint
STE PS 1. Gently press your silken tofu with paper towels or clean dish towels until you have drained some of the water out. This is important because excess water will affect the thickness of the mousse. 2. Microwave chocolate chips (or chopped up chocolate bar) in 30-second increments, stirring frequently, until fully melted. Be careful not to overheat, as this will result in burnt chocolate. Once fully melted, set aside.
Surprise the vegan in your life with a plant-based weekend of happenings. RI Food Fights’ Vegan Valentine Pop-up features a box of shareable plant-based treats available for pick up at Providence Bagel February 12 and 13 (preorder online at RIFoodFights.com). On the same weekend, RI VegFest returns to the WaterFire Arts Center with 85+ vendors for vegan and plant-curious eaters alike. RIVegFest.com
4. Spoon the mousse into ramekins, bowls, or glasses. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let it set. Top with chocolate spirals, blueberries, and mint, and enjoy! For more tips and recipes, visit RecipeHippie.com or follow @recipehippie on Instagram.
Photo by Liz Murray
3. Place into a blender the silken tofu, blueberries, and honey, and blend until smooth. Next add the chocolate and cocoa powder, and blend again.
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FOOD & DRINK
Sparks Fly
B u n d l e u p and bring your b o o to these cozy pat i o s fo r f i resi d e d i ni ng on Vale ntin e ’ s D ay a nd b eyo nd By Patty J
P
atio season is no longer just a spring and summer thing here in Rhode Island. As we find ourselves in the second winter of the pandemic, many restaurants are keeping the flame burning with outdoor dining and drinking around fire pits. It may be cold outside, but it’s warm around the fireside (and next to your sweetie) at these eight spots perfect for a snug romantic Valentine’s date night for all kinds of couples.
The fire pit vibe is the perfect complement to tots and beers at Ogie’s Trailer Park Stay toasty while sipping craft cocktails at ISCO
A pponaug Bre wi ng Keeping things more casual this Valentine’s? This brewery has great views of the Pawtuxet River, patio seating , heaters, and a large fire pit staff will light upon request. Choose from an expansive craft beer menu, canned ciders, and light bites such as fried pickles, pizza, and fries, all served fireside when you start a tab inside. Warwick, ApponaugBrewing.com
Bywate r This popular restaurant is steps from the Warren waterfront, which means oysters are fresh and dinner specials are seafood-forward. Those eschewing indoor dining these days will be thrilled to hear their patio is open this winter, where fire pits will keep you and your beloved toasty while raising glasses for a Valentine’s toast. Warren, Bywaterrestaurant.com
Greenva l e V i neya rd After taking a brief break in January, Greenvale Vineyards returns with fire pits aglow for February. On Thursdays through Sundays, bring a date or Galentine’s squad and a couple of blankets to indulge in wine tastings over the sound of a crackling fire and amid rows of hibernating grapevines. Portsmouth, Greenvale.com
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Huc k ’ s F i l l i n g S tati o n
T h e I n d u str i o u s S p i ri t s Co m p a ny
This filling station turned buzzy restaurant is ahead of the curve when it comes to fire pits, with several gas ones on their patio pre-pandemic. For this winter, they’ve ramped up the experience by adding several themed igloos complete with mini fireplaces – perfect for a Valentine’s double date enjoying brunch or dinner. East Greenwich, HucksFillingStation.com
ISCO has become known for their roomy outdoor space with heaters, fire pits, and bistro lights. It’s a dreamy spot for al fresco sipping , with Valentine’s cocktail specials sure to drop this month, made with hand-crafted spirits created from scratch on the premises of this first PVD distillery since Prohibition. Providence, ISCOSpirits.com Hey Rhody FEBRUARY 2022 |
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Huck’s Filling Station levels up the igloo dining game with fireplaces
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Ogie’s Tra i l e r Pa rk This fun and funky lounge on Providence’s West End is a homage to retro 1960s mobile homes, so a patio wouldn’t be complete without a few fire pits, plus some extra heaters to keep the vibe lively and comfy. Tuck into a few orders of their famous tots, burgers, or grilled cheese over beers or tiki drinks with your SO. Providence, OgiesTrailerPark.com
Rooftop at t h e P rov i d ence G The original year-round PVD rooftop destination, this downtown eatery and bar on Dorrance Street now has fire pits for those wanting a Valentine’s date night beneath the not-so-big city ambiance. Indulge in Insta-worthy mixed drinks or the champagne menu for cheersing over small plates like brick-oven flatbreads and crab deviled eggs. RooftopAtTheG.com
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Waterd o g K i tc h e n + B ar Another East Bay fave, Waterdog burst onto the Rhody restaurant scene two years ago with creative cocktails and modern American casual eats. They, too, are making the most of their outdoor area this season, adding fire pits for you and your date to huddle around while munching on wings, rangoons, and fish and chips. Warren, WaterdogKitchen.com Hey Rhody FEBRUARY 2022 |
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FOOD & DRINK
A More Equitable Food Industry M e nto rs h i p p ro g ra ms wo r k to c l o s e t h e g a p fo r B I P O C re st a u rate u rs By Abbie Lahmers
Aiyah Josiah-Faeduwor, founder of nonprofit dismantl
C
Photos courtesy of Bintimani (L+R), Black Beans PVD (Top)
ome spring of this year, 326 Westminster (where Tom’s Bao Bao used to be) in downtown Providence will be outfitted in an Afro-futurist style to pay homage to the West African cuisine – from cassava leaves to hearty stews and plantain salad – that assistant manager Aiyah Josiah-Faeduwor and his Boston-transplant family grew up eating and making for their Roxbury community. Nearing completion of his MBA from MIT and with a background in social impact work, Josiah-Faeduwor is not only looking at reopening his family’s West African restaurant Bintimani here in Providence, but also paving the way for other BIPOC-owned businesses to do the same with his nonprofit dismantl. “Getting engaged with my family’s situation is really what kind of started to point me in the direction of thinking about how to do this long term, and how to think bigger picture,” says Josiah-Faeduwor, referencing the Roxbury outpost of Bintimani being evicted by the landlord after 11 years in business. He began asking questions like “How do I help my family?” but also, “How can businesses help each other?” Josiah-Faeduwor isn’t alone in this thinking. As recent years have seen a dramatic rise in new business applications via the Secretar y of State office, the process of testing and developing recipes, licensing , and the time and funds required can present barriers to entrepreneurs without the connections or mentorship to get started. “When I was trying to develop recipes and considering starting my business, there was nowhere for me to go,” recalls Black Beans PVD
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Black Beans PVD serves up Valentine’s chocolates
Looking to launch a new restaurant or food business? Here are a few places to start. See page 18 for more resources. BL ACK BE ANS PVD @bakedbeanpvd DISM ANTL (COMING SOON ) @bintimanipvd HOPE & M AIN MakeFoodYourBusiness.org, @hopemain RHODE ISL AND COMMERCE OpenARestaurant.commerceri.com THE MILLR ACE K ITCHEN NeighborWorksBRV.org URI’S RI SM ALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER Web.URI.edu/risbdc/
owner, known on her pop-up circuit simply as “Bean,” who specializes in soul food and chocolate work (including a Valentine’s menu of hand pies, cookies, and more on the docket this month). In the spirit of “collective and cooperative economics” – a tenet of the Kwanzaa principle Ujamaa – Bean invites potential entrepreneurs, especially BIPOC cooks and bakers, to come to her with their ideas. Offering help with recipes, scaling , and packaging , along with space to produce items and test their marketability, Bean explains, “It’s a chance to see if that small dream can have legs and grow, all alongside licensed bakers and chefs, gaining experience-based advice and personal contacts we’ve made along the way. It’s about building the community and supports I couldn’t find in the beginning.” Josiah-Faeduwor envisions dismantl serving as a hub of resources that connects the dots of opening a restaurant, filling in gaps when needed. “As someone who has been navigating this myself, there are these resources and commerces, specific firms and agencies that work with businesses that are all kind of separate, but there’s really not one place or resource where you can go if you don’t know anything at all about this or don’t have established networks.” A holistic program, dismantl begins with helping businesses get the certifications and li-
censes they need and overcoming the learning curves that can come with that process. “Many times, even as someone with an MBA, I would fill out these documents and send them in,” says Josiah-Faeduwor, only to be told it wasn’t filled out correctly, “and that would be the end of it.” Dismantl will ultimately ser ve as a launching point to help prospective business owners with assembling a business model, accessing capital and funds, and gaining a following by showcasing their talents in Bintimani’s kitchen space. Josiah-Faeduwor recently defended his Master’s thesis, which looks at the power structures in place allowing some businesses to succeed and others not to, and the outcomes of capitalism promoting competition, “but the competition isn’t fair if some people are starting at a different place than others,” he explains. For solutions, he looks to pre-capitalist and pre-colonial Indigenous systems, including a West African community banking practice known as Osusu, which promote more collective approaches to economic development. Programs like dismantl and the work of Black Beans PVD begin to balance the scales, and Josiah-Faeduwor is optimistic that when more equitable practices follow, such programming won’t be necessary at all. “Hopefully dismantl works itself out of a need by connecting this ecosystem that no longer needs an intermediary.”
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38 Textures create interest in neutral spaces P h o t o s b y R e a d M c K e n d r e e , c o u r t e s y o f To n y D e g i a c o m o
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Awash in Style
Weste rl y ho m e own ers draw i n s pi rati on f rom the nearby shoreline
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t’s that old Rhody Ram love stor y of Westerly boy meets Connecticut girl at URI, they marr y, and keep driving by this house in his hometown for two years. “At the time it didn’t speak to us so it was simply a drive-by,” says Tony Degiacomo. Wife Aerilee chimes in, “ We had even purchased a piece of land to build on but decided to take one last look at the house.” But this time the couple walked the property and fell instantly in love with the location. While the area was the main draw, the house itself was essentially an exterior shell with framing on the inside. “It was an open canvas. We were excited
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about the challenge of completing the project,” says Tony of the over 4,000-square-foot structure. “ The whole house was basically a DIY project and we attempted to use as many local vendors as possible. Whether it was sourcing materials or talented skilled contractors, we never ventured outside of our local community and family members.” In addition to structural work, the Degiacomos completed all kinds of smaller projects, which contribute not only personality but sense of place throughout the home. “Our sunroom coffee table is literally a log that got washed up to shore in Watch Hill,” explains Tony. “I was doing a landscaping project and there it was just
Contrasting the dark blue walls with light furniture gives the appearance of a larger space. The driftwood coffee table was a seaside score.
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Photos by Read McKendree, courtesy of Tony Degiacomo
By Elys e Major
Built-in benches make the most of a small nook
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HOME & STYLE
A chandelier adds a luxurious touch
Get Rhody Style To ny a n d A e r i l e e D e g i a co m o s h a re h ow t h e i r l ove o f w h e re t h ey l i ve i s re f l e c te d i n t h e i r h o m e .
W i s fo r Wo n d e r f u l What’s the best part of living in RI? “The ocean, the beach, the blend between the locals and the tourists. The tight-knit community. The small commercialized areas such as downtown Westerly and Watch Hill, the undiscovered areas such as Weekapaug.”
Blues Clues Tips on getting a seaside vibe? “We hired a local artist to paint a picture of a quahog using our continual coastal color palette. Also, driftwood and sea glass, and books about the beach.”
S h o p Lo c a l Favorite nearby businesses? “Bay Street in Watch Hill is full of great local shops in the summertime. Downtown Westerly has a great mix of restaurants and shops. And of course, Tony’s business, TJD Landscaping.”
Photos by Read McKendree, courtesy of Tony Degiacomo
sitting in the sand, standing up, just like it is today in our sunroom.” Tony and Aerilee describe their style as “luxury beach house” and explain that the ocean is a big part of their lives. “Our two young daughters spend their summers on the sand almost daily,” says Aerilee. “ We took some of the color palettes and design choices of a typical beach cottage and made it into a full-time home.” For main rooms, neutral and light colors were selected for a timeless, calming feel, while the couple got more adventurous with secondary spaces like the sunroom and powder room. “ We wanted unexpected pops of color and pattern.” With the hard work behind them, what’s the best part ? Tony’s eyes light up as he says, “Seeing our family enjoy all the spaces we’ve created. We have some great sitting areas where you can just look out at all the views… golf course, nature, distant water, rolling hills in the lawn.” Hey Rhody FEBRUARY 2022 |
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HOME & STYLE
The Face of Success By Allie Lewis
T
hree years ago, Lexus Fernandez had just finished her sophomore year at Roger Williams University – majoring in political science and visual arts – and had big plans for the summer and future ahead of her. At the time, starting a skincare brand wasn’t among them – nor was relearning the use of the left side of her brain. At 20 years old, with no warning, Fernandez suffered a major brain aneurysm that robbed her of her language and math skills, and damaged her sense of time and memory. “It took a lot from me,” Fernandez says, including her ability to return to school or keep her job. Worst of all, it stripped her of her confidence. She lost her hair and returned home from the hospital covered in scars and bruises. When she was finally able to get into the shower on her own again, the same products that had once nourished her skin now turned against her, covering her in rashes. Armed with books on herbalism, aromatherapy, and herbal remedies, and working out of her kitchen, Fernandez began crafting soaps and oils to help heal her skin. “Because the aneurysm flooded on the left side of my brain, the right side – where the creativity, the art lives – was heightened,” says Fernandez, who took the time she now had in abundance to experiment with natural ingredients and derive products that worked wonders on her skin. Her products worked so well, in fact, that Fernandez wanted to find a way to share them with everyone. “I had no education in business, I had no net worth, I had no money,” Fernandez says, thinking back on how quickly she’d watched her savings account dwindle in the months after her brain aneurysm. “By the time the New Year came, I seemingly had nothing.” Fernandez had come a long way in a matter of months, regaining her ability to walk, speak, write, and even drive. She brought her new soaps, branded Soulita, to small pop-up events and eventually began creating other products like dry masks, essential oils, and body butters. “Soulita gave me purpose again,” Fernandez says. “It gave me something to believe in.” At its core, Soulita isn’t just about having
Photo courtesy of Soulita
“these nice, green products help you on the outside, but also on the inside.” She adds, “Even at your lowest, you can still find ambition.” Just as Fernandez was getting Soulita off the ground, she heard about Brooklyn-based actor and model Evan Delpeche on social media through mutual friends. She reached out about modeling for a new beard oil she was launching , and while he wasn’t available for that project, the two reconnected later while Delpeche was in Providence for work, and they instantly clicked. “As soon as we started working together, we were like, ‘This could work,’” Lexus said. “That’s the foundation of our relationship, because we saw how well we work together.” Delpeche eagerly offered suggestions for how to grow Soulita using his background in fashion marketing. Though he never envisioned entering the world of skin care, Delpeche describes his partnership with Fernandez as one of the best things to ever happen to him and an opportunity to work on something bigger than themselves. With a new website and image they collaborated on, the brand took off, and can be found in retail spaces like Green Line Apothecary and Plant City, and now their own temporary storefront on Westminster Street. Soulita has expanded so much that Fernandez and Delpeche recently bought warehouse space in Olneyville, where they look forward to hiring a team to work in the laboratory they’re building out, as well as a photography studio to market new products. Once completed, the couple hopes to open their space up once a month for networking events and to provide free professional headshots to neighbors. “We have to give back to the community before we give out to the world,” Fernandez says. “While we’re creating our base and our warehouse here, we’re also looking for ways to revitalize our community.” This includes neighborhood cleanups, and most recently, a small college scholarship to a graduating senior from Fernandez’s alma mater, Mount Pleasant High School, where she delivered a commencement speech to students about the importance of perseverance. While Soulita wasn’t part of her original career plans, Fernandez says she’s grateful for where life’s cur veballs have led her. “The same thing that almost killed me is also what saved me.” Hey Rhody FEBRUARY 2022 |
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HOME & STYLE
Meet Allyson McCalla By S ascha Roberts
Why was it important for you to start a Rhode Island chapter of Black Girls Do Bike? It’s important to see a community that represents all individuals. In the community where I ride the most, I didn’t see any riders who were a representation of myself, and I knew there were other women of color out there who had the same outlook. Instead of being discouraged, I decided to start the Newport chapter of Black Girls Do Bike. My hope is to motivate other women of color to get out and ride, and to inspire others to start a chapter of Black Girls Do Bike in their cities or towns. Tell us about your first bike. My first two-wheel bike was a hand-me-down from my older sister. It was a white, red, and pink Strawberry Shortcake bike with a banana seat. At six years old, I remember teaching myself how to ride it in the hallway of our home using the walls to keep my balance. Once I was confident enough, you couldn’t get me off my bike. Apart from my feet, my bike was my only mode of transportation, and I rode it everywhere! Can you give advice to those who may want to bike but are not sure where to start? My advice is to start by learning the rules of the road in your city or town. Secondly, find a bike that suits your needs. Have conversations with other riders to build awareness and confidence. Go on brief rides around the neighborhood, on a bike path, or somewhere you feel safe. Lastly, I can’t stress enough the importance of bicycle safety precautions: I always recommend wearing high-visibility clothing and a helmet – both can be a lifesaver. Where are some of your favorite bike shops around the state? Although Bike Newport is not a bike shop, but rather an advocacy and education organization, it’s my favorite! Individuals can have their bike repaired by a mechanic, work one-on-one with an educator to learn how to fix their bike, adopt a bike, earn a bike, and rent a bike. Where are your favorite places to ride? My favorite places to ride are around Newport’s Ocean Loop, from Bristol to Providence on the East Bay Bike Path (I enjoy taking the Seastreak ferry back to Newport), the Blackstone River Bikeway, and of course, anywhere with my people who ride with the Newport chapter of Black Girls Do Bike! Learn more at BikeNewport.org/ black-girls-do-bike-newport
Photo by Steve Sabo, courtesy of Bike Newport
This Newport cyclist is on a mission to show that Black Girls Do Bike in Little Rhody
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HOME & STYLE
A Natural Fit
The life-changing experience of finding a curly hair-exclusive salon close to home By Tanaka Sotinwa
I
was eight years old the first time I walked into a hair salon. It was a busy Saturday morning and my aunt had taken us to “tame” our hair. Sizzling our hair for church with a stovetop-heated stretching comb or thread plaiting for a week of school was par for the course, until it was decided natural hair was too much stress. My sister and I walked in excitedly, our senses bombarded by the smell of chemicals, the steady whirring of the hood dryers, and the bustling conversation. Alluring images of the life-changing power of relaxers surrounded us and I pointed to a photo of Diana Ross, her curly hair flying behind her – I wanted that look. I left the salon with a curly, dripping perm that did anything but fly….or make me look fly. Fast-forward to adulthood, adding a move from the UK to Rhode Island and nothing much changed. Instead of four-hour flights to London, I was doing round-trips to Boston to relax my hair. The times I had embraced my natural hair, I was left relying on YouTube evangelists to show me the way. Pregnancy in 2020 saw me abandon relaxers completely, and as my natural hair grew, so did my desperation for a hairdresser who could “cut it kinky” without being New York-based. Alas, I fell prey to a local “Edward Scissorhands” who botched my postpartum hair (insert tears). After lamenting the state of Afro hair care in Rhody, someone recommended The LOFT in East Providence and my life was forever changed! I could ramble on about the serene salon environment set up specifically for my hair, and the stylists who looked the part. But first let’s focus on how the appointment began on time. Stylist Shawnette (with her envyinducing curls), was ready for me. “ What’s your hair goal?” she asked. “ To not look like an extra from Trolls,” came my response. Posters of women proudly wearing their different hair textures adorned the walls and I pointed to one. She smiled and with some snips, a treatment, and twists, Edward
Tanaka Sotinwa
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Sharita Payton assessing shape at The LOFT
Scissorhands’ handiwork was histor y ! She equipped me with knowledge and product recommendations, and I literally floated out of that salon. The LOFT is one of three “Curly Hair Exclusive” salons founded by Connecticut native, Sharita Payton whose vision is “Helping women of all textures to better learn and embrace their God-given hair”. After visiting them in East Providence I can say they succeeded on their mission with me.
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ART & CULTURE P h o t o g ra p h e r | M u s i c | R h o d y R e a d s | C a l e n d a r
50 Singer Alexus Lee photographed in a bamboo grove P h o t o b y B r i t t a n n y Ta y l o r
ART & CULTURE
No Filter Needed Lifestyle p h o to g ra p h e r Britt a n ny Tay l o r helps subj e ct s c a p t u re their t r ue s elves By Li Goldstein
B
Photo (L) by Christy Gagnon / Eisley Images, courtesy of Brittanny Taylor, (R) by Brittanny Taylor
rittanny Taylor has one rule for clients when they enter her studio: no negative self-talk. This principle affirms a larger mission of celebrating and empowering, and extends beyond images. The Providence-based photographer also offers tarot reading, empowerment coaching, and yoga. During these sessions she works with clients to bring their true selves to the fore. “Throughout all the modalities I’ve worked through, I’ve seen people have such a disconnect with themselves,” she says. “And my goal is to help people figure out what wholeness looks like for them.” Taylor often works with small business owners to craft a brand identity through their photographs. Highlighting their individuality, she says, promotes authentic interactions with their own future clients. “I want their personality, their essence, their business to shine through in our photos,” she says. “I don’t want them to pretend
to be someone else, because they’re great right now.” Complementing this is her approach to empowerment coaching, in which she helps clients – many of whom are struggling to get started or stuck on a project – to create organizational strategies and systems that work for them and enable them to produce their strongest work. These grounding techniques became all the more crucial during the pandemic, especially for Taylor’s small business owner clients. “Especially as time goes on, with this pandemic, I think we’re realizing how much of our lives were based around outside forces, and even more so now where we have such a sense of no control over our lives… I think now more than ever, people need to have a deeper [knowledge] of themselves, and be in tune with their mindset, their bodies, whatever they consider spiritual for them.” Taylor grew up in Providence, receiving her bachelor’s degree in film studies from Rhode
Island College with sights set on a career as a sports documentary editor. Working in retail at Sony right after college, and later another camera store from which she was laid off, unexpectedly jump started a career in photography. “It was never planned for me,” she says, “but looking back at my life, the signs were always there that I was going to be a photographer.” She recalls time spent around fashion with her mother, who studied apparel design at RISD in the 1970s and brought a then three-year-old Taylor to her runway shows. When she got her first point-and-shoot camera, friends often asked her to take photographs of them. Taylor recalls with pride the most memorable compliment she received from a client getting professional photos taken for the first time since her wedding 20 years prior: “I look like myself in these photos.” Follow along on Instagram @brittanny.taylor
Simony Resende and Mayvin Morillo, wives and owners of Aruverde Salon
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ART & CULTURE
Making History
Thre e i m p o rtant musicians of color honored in the R ho de I slan d M u sic H all of Fame By Ken Abrams
F
or a small state, Little Rhody has certainly made its mark on the national music scene. Much of the state’s musical legacy is enshrined at the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame (RIMHF) and can be viewed in the grand hallway of Hope Artiste Village. Established in 2012, the mission of the RIMHF is to “celebrate, honor, and preserve the legacy of Rhode Island musicians, educators, and industry professionals who have made significant contributions to the national and Rhode Island music scene.” In celebration of Black History Month, here are three names any music-lover should know. PAUL GONSALVES Pawtucket native Paul Gonsalves was a groundbreaking saxophonist in the Duke Ellington Band, credited with bringing a more modern sound to the band when he joined in 1950. He toured with Ellington for many years but is best known for a single performance at the 1956 Newport Jazz Festival, when his 27-chorus improvisation
SISSIERETTA JONES Sissieretta Jones may not be the most widely known RI native, but she sure made a mark on the music scene in her day. An opera sensation, Jones was born in Virginia and moved to Providence at a young age. She learned her craft at Baptist churches in the city and soon began singing professionally. Jones became known as “the Black Patti,” with critics comparing her voice to that of the famous Italian opera star of the day, Adelina Patti. In the 1890s she toured Europe, playing for royalty, and performed at the White House before an audience that included President Benjamin Harrison. She is said to be the first African-American singer who performed at Carnegie Hall in New York City, a major accomplishment at the time.
CLAUDIA LENNEAR Claudia Lennear is one of the most wellknown backup singers of all time. She grew up in Providence, where she attended Hope High School and excelled in music. In 1967, she moved to Los Angeles where she promptly joined Ike and Tina Turner’s backing chorus, The Ikettes. Lennear toured with the band in concert, sang on eight albums, and appeared on numerous T V broadcasts in the late 1960s. Lennear soon became a “go-to” backup singer, touring and recording with many stars, including The Rolling Stones, Leon Russell, and Stephen Stills. She sang backup at George Harrison’s legendary “Concert for Bangladesh,” cementing her place in rock and roll history. In 2013, she received overdue recognition along with Darlene Love, Merry Clayton, and others in the Academy Award-winning documentary “20 Feet from Stardom.” Lennear appeared at the Hall for her induction ceremony in 2019 accompanied by Grammy winning blues musician Taj Mahal.
Sissieretta Jones
Photo (R) by Rick Farrell
Paul Gonsalves
on Ellington’s “Diminuendo and Crescendo In Blue” drove the crowd into a frenzy sparking fears among organizers of a potential riot. Gonsalves also released several critically praised small group albums of his own in the 1950s and 1960s.
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Taj Mahal proudly looks on as friend Claudia Lennear is inducted into the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame in 2019
HELP FOR MUSICIANS To help professional musicians who suffer financial hardship intensified by the pandemic, musicians can apply for New England Music Relief Funds at NEMRF.org/apply. Supporters wishing to make a tax-deductible donation may do so at NEMRF.org/takeaction. Tune In & Tune Up is an initiative of the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame. Learn about their programs, including the Grocery List Grant, for musicians suffering financial hardships at TuneInandTuneUp.org
ART & CULTURE
Rhody Reads Celebrating six local authors
for Black History Month
By Hug h Minor
R
hode Island’s literar y scene is a rich tapestr y of diverse cultures and backgrounds. For Black Histor y Month, Rhody Reads is highlighting six local Black authors who represent an array of styles, from poetr y to politics. They all have something unique to say, so be sure to check them out and, as always, support your favorite local bookseller when you make a purchase. Bloody vampire tales are not for ever yone, but if you’re thirsty for a suspense-filled thriller, check out Rhode Island-based author Errick Nunnally’s All the Dead Men, the second book in his Alexander Smith series. Who better to help solve a crime involving bloodsuckers and shapeshifters than the stor y’s hero – who happens to be a werewolf ? He hesitates to get involved, until it becomes personal and the claws come out! Best read at night. Kou Tukala Nyan’s collection of poems Jesus, Adulting, People in Poetry shines a spotlight on a realization that we all know so well, “Adulting is hard.” With grace and style, URI grad Nyan writes to inspire as she explores her own journey into the phase that follows childhood with “Next Plan.” We can’t stay children forever, but with a little guidance and encouragement, we can successfully navigate our way into a rich and fulfilling life. To uncover the secrets of the universe, cosmologist Stephon Alexander had to stop studying and start exploring. In his book, Fear of a Black Universe: An Outsider’s Guide to the Future of Physics, the Brown University professor and jazz musician shares his insights and discoveries. Alexander simplifies
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Hey Rhody FEBRUARY 2022 |
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complex concepts, opening doors for the reader, while demonstrating the need for more diversity in the various fields of scientific study. Spoken word artist Clarise Annette Brooks has captured her bold and powerful thoughts and ideas on paper in her new book, Excuse Me While I Live My Life from local publisher Stillwater River Publications. Her themes of mindfulness and responsibility will resonate with readers striving to build a better life for themselves and their surrounding community. Check out the book and see Brooks read her work live in the area when you get the chance. The word “stor yteller” barely scratches the surface when talking about legendar y artist Len Cabral. For decades, he has entertained and educated children and adults with his passionate performances. Introduce yourself and others to his work with his retelling of a Haitian folktale, How the R abbit Lost Its Tail, illustrated by Kate DeCar valho. The sto r y asks, “ Why am I different ?” and, more importantly, “ What does it matter ?” In Yarmulkes & Fitted Caps, Aaron Levy Samuels explores his own identity as the child of a Jewish mother and Black father raised in Providence. Along with his discussion of race, Samuels weaves in topics of family, religion, and teenage angst. With a spirituality and flow, he explores the human condition while simultaneously challenging and celebrating what we know about ourselves and one another.
Send your Rhody book recommendations to Hugh at RhodyReads@gmail.com
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SUPPORT INDIE A statewide listing of Rhode Island booksellers: Barrington Books: BarringtonBooks.com Book Nerd: Barrington, Facebook Books on the Pond: Charlestown, BooksOnThePond.com Books on the Square: Providence, BookSq.com Cellar Stories Bookstore: Providence, CellarStories.com Charter Books: Newport, CharterBookStore.com Curiosity & Co.: Jamestown, Facebook: CuriosityandCompany.store Inkfish Books: Warren, InkFishBooks.com Island Books: Middletown, IslandBooksRI.indielite.org Island Bound Bookstore: Block Island, IslandBoundBookstore.com Lovecraft Arts & Sciences: Providence, WeirdProvidence.org Paper Nautilus Books: Providence, PaperNautilusBooks.com Rarities Books & Bindery: Wakefield, RaritiesOnline.com Riffraff Bookstore + Bar: Providence, RiffRaffPVD.com Savoy Bookshop & Cafe: Westerly, BankSquareBooks.com Stillwater Books: Pawtucket, StillwaterBooksRI.com Symposium Books: Providence, SymposiumBooks.com Twenty Stories: Providence, TwentyStoriesLA.com Wakefield Books: Wakefield, WakefieldBooks.com
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ART & CULTURE
10 essential events this month
ide statew For a f events o listing online! s visit u m ody.co h HeyR
Through February 28: It’s Winter Wonder Days at Roger Williams Park Zoo! Catch cold weather-loving animals like snow leopards and red pandas in frosty temps, along with half-price admission, all month. Providence, RWPZoo.com
T h r o u g h F e b r u a r y 2 0 : An Octoroon, Brandon Jacobs-Jenkins’ Obie-winning retelling of a 19th century melodrama about a plantation owner who falls in love with a mixed race woman, plays at The Gamm under Joe Wilson Jr.’s direction. Warwick, GammTheatre.org
Wickford Art Association’s Februar y exhibit Photography celebrates the genre with local work, from high-end digital camera shots to Polaroids. North Kingstown, Wickford Art.org
T h r o u g h F e b r u a r y : The Center for Reconciliation of RI welcomes all to experience Providence Walks: Early Black History SelfGuided Walking Tour, with a map available to print out or view on a phone. CFRRI.org
bottle of bubbly and head over to Bloom Back Flowers for a Galentine’s Day Flower Arranging Workshop. Fresh seasonal flowers, a vase, and live instruction included. Providence, BloomBackFlowers.com
F e b r u a r y 4 - 6 : From miniatures tournaments
F e b r u a r y 1 8 -2 0 : Stor ybook characters come
to RPG sessions to board games and cosplay, CaptainCon 2022, a paradise for gaming enthusiasts, returns to the Crowne Plaza for three days of 24/7 social gaming. Warwick, CaptainCon.com
to life in Stephen Sondeim’s and James Lapine’s modern twist on fair y tales in the enchanting , Tony Award-winning musical Into the Woods at the Stadium Theatre. Woonsocket, StadiumTheatre.com
F e b r u a r y 4 - M a r c h 6 : Juried by War wick
F e b r u a r y 1 8 : Drummer Marky Ramone shares
photographer Shane Gutierrez, the
tales from his time with the iconoclastic punk
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F e b r u a r y 1 4 : Grab your bestie and a BYOB
band in My Life as a R amone, followed by a screening of Rock N Roll High School. East Greenwich, GreenwichOdeum.com
F e b r u a r y 2 6 : Joe LyonWurm, founder of Pedal Powered Anthropolog y, discusses the importance of work-life balance in Play, the final in a three-part virtual Work/Life Winter Series from Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park. Facebook: BlackstoneNPS F e b r u a r y 2 6 : The Providence Preser vation Society transforms the dilapidated Trolley Barn into A Night at the Moulin Rouge for their annual winter bash, one of the best themed fundraisers in the state. Providence, PPSRI.org Please note that events may require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test and mask-wearing regardless of vaccination status. Be sure to check each venue for updates. Hey Rhody FEBRUARY 2022 |
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Photo courtesy of RWP Zoo
The Must List
Bundle up for fresh air fun at RWP Zoo
RHODY SNAPSHOTS I m a g e s v i a I n s t a g ra m h i g h l i g h t t h e b e a u ty o f t h e O c e a n S t a t e
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