A new year means new opportunities. With deep roots in Rhode Island and a passion for both historic and modern living, I’ll help you turn the page on 2024 and step into a 2025 you’ll love. Ready to make your move? I’m here to help!
CONTRIBUTORS
CHEIKH HIGGS
Having moved to Providence a year ago, former intern Cheikh Higgs enjoys discovering all that the city has to offer. In “On the Grid” (page 11), he writes about a Wickenden Street gallery on a mission to empower Q ueer and BIPOC photographers. By day, the Oberlin College grad serves as marketing and communications coordinator at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northern Rhode Island.
ABBIE LAHMERS
This month’s statewide cover story “Who to Watch 2025” (page A3) was compiled by our managing editor, Abbie Lahmers, who thoughtfully framed each candidate’s narrative with questions about reasons for hope and resilience in the year ahead. In this busy writer’s downtime, find Lahmers unplugged via activities like hiking, camping, and penning fiction.
EMILY OLSON
Originally from Texas, Emily Olson loves to interview and write about the interesting people who populate her adopted home. In “Inside Out” (page 75), she does just that by taking a deep-dive into holistic wellness methods offered nearby. An activist and educator, Olson likes to spend weekends exploring New England with her three children, or with her nose in a good book.
NICK DELGIUDICE
This month’s cover story photos were taken in-house by our own general manager and creative director, Nick DelGiudice. The New England Tech grad deftly straddles both leading the company and tapping into his artistic side by providing photography and design as needed. Additionally, he’s part of the trio on our weekly YouTube Facebook show, Hey Rhody Weekly
NEWS & CULTURE
Arts | Community | The Public’s Radio | Op-Ed | Rhody Gem | Neighborhood News | Calendar
On the Grid
Wickenden Street gallery empowers Queer photographers of color to succeed on their own terms
By Cheikh Higgs
At the heart of the eclectic energy of Wickenden Street is GRID Gallery, a nonprofit organization founded with the mission of serving the community of Black, Indigenous, people of color (BIPOC), and LGBTQIA2S+ photographers in Providence. Its goal is simple but powerful: to provide these artists with the tools, mentorship, and community they need to thrive in an industry where their voices have long been marginalized.
“We are creating a public commons space for Q ueer and BIPOC photographers, where they can find not just a platform to showcase their work, but also opportunities for professional development,” says Nacho Amor, the gallery’s executive director. “We’re helping these artists navigate the often murky waters of the art world, from getting their work in galleries to learning how to price it and network effectively.”
One of the key services GRID Gallery offers is its professional development programs for Rhode Island School of Design students and other emerging artists. Through workshops, mentorship, and networking events, the gallery equips them with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in an often exclusionary industry. Topics range from how to build a strong artist brand to the business side of art and networking with industry professionals.
“The goal is to provide these artists with the tools to succeed on their own terms,” Amor explains. “That means dismantling the barriers created by privilege, systemic racism, and classism that continue to dominate the art world.”
The challenges faced by Q ueer and BIPOC photographers are compounded by the industry’s long history of being controlled by predominantly white gatekeepers. Despite a growing movement toward diversity, many galleries still fail to offer a meaningful platform for underrepresented voices. GRID Gallery challenges this status quo by ensuring that the artists it showcases are not just tokenized but celebrated for the depth and richness of their work.
GRID’s approach is both fresh and necessary in today’s art scene. The gallery curates exhibitions that spark conversation and create a space for critical dialogue. “We select artists whose work creates unexpected and
thought-provoking juxtapositions,” says Amor. “We’re not interested in simply fitting a mold – we want to showcase pieces that push boundaries and challenge perceptions.”
Looking to the future, GRID Gallery has big plans. In spring 2025, the gallery will launch a lecture series titled Breaking Barriers: A Guide to Navigating the Art Market for Queer BIPOC Photographers and Their Allies . The series will focus on three key areas: building a strong artist brand, understanding the business of art, and networking within the industry. It’s an exciting opportunity for both emerging artists and those already established, as it will feature guest speakers who are leaders in the art world, all of whom are committed to shifting the power dynamics in the industry.
As an artist and advocate, Amor’s passion for empowering Q ueer and BIPOC photographers is deeply personal. He brings years of
experience working with nonprofit organizations and a deep understanding of the hurdles faced by marginalized artists. “I’ve always wanted to create a space where people like me – artists, Q ueer folks, people of color – could thrive. GRID is that space,” he shares. “It’s not just about putting up art on the wall; it’s about creating a network, a community that supports and uplifts each other.”
By attending exhibitions, engaging with the artists, and contributing financially, locals help ensure that this important resource remains accessible for future generations of Q ueer and BIPOC photographers. “We want to be a resource not just for artists, but for the entire community,” says Amor. “Art has the power to bring people together, to open minds and hearts. We want to help people see the world from different perspectives.” Learn more at GRIDGallery.org and @gridgalleryri.
Photo courtesy of GRID Gallery
Attendees at the recent Outside The Lines exhibit
To
Storytelling Made Approachable
The fast-paced, highly visual format inspires and engages the local community every month
By Jenna Kaplan
PechaKucha is revolutionizing presentations by offering a refreshing alternative to the typical, often dull formats. Originating in Tokyo in 2003, architects Mark Dytham and Astrid Klein introduced this concept, which means “chit-chat” in Japanese. The format is straightforward yet captivating: 20 images, each displayed for 20 seconds.
“We’ve all suffered through excessively long and boring presentations. PechaKucha is the remedy,” says Chris Donovan, the current community organizer in Providence. “With only 400 seconds to communicate your message, you must show more and tell less.” This approach results in striking, engaging visuals that truly embody the saying, “a picture is worth a thousand words.”
Since being introduced to Providence in 2009, the events have always been free, venues rotate
to highlight new locations, and “there is always a platform for sharing passions, ideas, and stories,” Donovan reflects. The thriving local PechaKucha chapter has also grown significantly. “We used to fit into a coffee shop, but now we have such a strong following that we’re filling up parks!”
Unlike many curated events, PechaKucha Providence prides itself on its open call for presenters. “We don’t curate our lineups, and you don’t need an invitation to sign up,” Donovan says. The selection is guided by three core values: community, creativity, and celebration. Each month, a theme serves as a starting point for individual interpretation.
PechaKucha events play a vital role in nurturing the local creative community. “Creativity doesn’t happen in isolation. We need to discover, be inspired, and be challenged,”
Donovan asserts. These events provide a platform for discovering new ideas and challenging existing perceptions. While the core elements of PechaKucha will remain, Donovan envisions an evolution in the voices and ideas shared. “Knowing that, I’m confident that Providence will have stories for years to come,” he says. Donovan encourages everyone to sign up. “Everyone has a story. Be brave enough to share it,” he urges. From a presentation about Microsoft Excel that brought the house down with laughter to heartfelt journeys of loss and the impact of volunteer communities, PechaKucha proves that every story resonates. “You have a story. It matters, even if you don’t realize it yet.” PechaKucha takes place monthly, with rotating themes. Learn more or sign up online at PechaKuchaPVD.org.
Photo courtesy of PechaKucha
More Than a Third of Rhode Islanders are Facing Food Insecurity, According to a New Survey
The report also shows that food insecurity in the state is at a five-year high. People of color are among the most affected demographics.
partnership with The Public’s Radio • ThePublicsRadio.org
• By Olivia Ebertz
Areport from the Brown University School of Public Health and Blue Cross Blue Shield Rhode Island shows that 38 percent of Rhode Island households – a five year high – are experiencing food insecurity. Food insecurity is more prevalent for families of color than white families, with 55 percent of Rhode Island Latino households and 47 percent of Black households experiencing food insecurity, compared with 33 percent of white households, according to the new report.
It’s an 111 percent increase from the year 2021, when 18 percent of households in Rhode Island were experiencing food insecurity. The authors of the report consider people to be food insecure if at least some of the time they say they worry about or lack funds to buy food.
According to Kate MacDonald, a spokesperson for the Rhode Island Community Food Bank, which released the data [on Monday], food insecurity is being exacerbated by rising costs in the state.
“The cost of everything is so high right now, it’s all adding up for people: basic necessities, the cost of rent, the cost of utilities, of food in the store, child care,” she said.
According to national data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, food costs 2.1 percent more than it did 12 months ago, and on average, the costs of all goods are up 2.6 percent compared to last year.
Melissa Clark, the director of Brown University’s School of Public Health Survey Research Center, said the survey was done through calling about 2,000 randomly selected Rhode Islanders and asking them two questions: whether they worried their household’s food would run out before they got money to purchase more, and
“The cost of everything is so high right now, it’s all adding up for people: basic necessities, the cost of rent, the cost of utilities, of food in the store, child care,” said Kate MacDonald, a spokesperson for Rhode Island Community Food Bank, the organization which released the data
Photo by Alex Nunes
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if the food they bought didn’t last and they didn’t have money to buy more.
Clark also tied her team’s findings about increasing food insecurity to higher costs of living. She said people are having to make hard decisions.
“People having to decide how and where to spend their money is just incredibly sad,” she said.
The food insecurity survey is part of a larger report that Clark’s team releases each year, called the RI Life Index. In addition to food insecurity, the report also addresses other perceived quality of life issues around the state. The group plans to release the full
results of their study on Dec. 11 in an event that’s open to the public.
Clark and MacDonald also said food insecurity is no longer just connected just with the lowest income groups.
“Our pantries are seeing more and more folks who are needing assistance for the very first time,” said MacDonald.
MacDonald said for that reason, the Community Food Bank of Rhode Island is advocating for the passage of a federal Farm Bill that would include funding for the SNAP program.
This article was originally posted on No v ember 26, 2024. Olivia Ebertz can be reached at oebertz.org.
Photo courtesy of RI Community Food Bank
Op-Ed: Show Them Who’s Boss
Alarming test scores raise questions about the handling of Providence Public
Schools
By Barry Fain and Steven Triedman
We supported Brett Smiley for mayor – and we still do. We would have liked to have seen a new culture with new blood in senior management rather than holdovers from an administration that we couldn’t get rid of fast enough.
The most recent fiscal crisis is not really a surprise. The city lost a court case over how much city taxpayer money must be paid into the school system each year under the current state takeover and must pay millions more to the Providence Public School District (PPSD). This will cost taxpayers as it is likely to cause a tax increase of around 4 percent. This tax increase could be worse based on the story that we wrote a few months ago about the commercial properties in the city that have seen values fall in excess of 25 percent.
The mayor was originally going to seek authority from the General Assembly for a midyear supplemental tax increase but has backed off from that position. It should also be noted that the majority of the General Assembly has not been inclined to disproportionally support Providence. For perspective, the school department’s budget accounts for 51.55 percent of the city’s $744,965,176 annual budget. That translates into $17,697 per student, which seems to be an embarrassingly poor return based on just about any metric you look at.
Sadly, this isn’t breaking news. Providence schools have, with a few notable exceptions (Classical, a few elementary schools, and the old magnet schools), been consistently rated poor to underperforming. Here’s a quick recap since the first major attempt to turn things around.
In 1993, an independent, community-wide assessment of the PPSD produced a comprehensive report about the condition of the schools: the Providence Blueprint for Education. The report’s blue-ribbon commission included many prominent Rhode Island business leaders, including Cookson president and future Governor Don Carcieri, Gilbane CEO Paul Choquette, real estate developer Arthur Robbins, RI Hospital Trust Bank CEO Henry Woodbridge, Rabbi Leslie Gutterman, Fred Lippitt, Edward Eddy, Nick Retsinas, and a wide range of other community leaders.
Photo by Abbie Lahmers
Classical High School
The RIDE turnaround record on key test scores and the Turnaround Action Plan (TAP) Goal: percentage of Providence students “meeting” or “exceeding” test score expectations.
(ELA = English Language Arts; RICAS = RI Comprehensive Assessment System; SAT = Scholastic Aptitude Test)
Recent scores are reported by RIDE, and TAP goals can be found at 4PvdKids.com.
Key findings in that report noted a major discrepancy in state funding compared to similar school systems and that Providence students spent far fewer hours in school than those in peer cities. The report concluded that major improvements in almost every area could be made with stronger management and with only a small increase in funding.
In 2016, 26 years later, Johns Hopkins issued a scathing report, noting that the “Providence Public School District is overburdened with multiple, overlapping sources of governance and bureaucracy with no clear domains of authority and very little scope for transformative change. The resulting structures paralyze action, stifle innovation, and create dysfunction and inconsistency across the district. In the face of the current governance structure, stakeholders understandably expressed little to no hope for serious reform.”
If anyone was surprised, they shouldn’t have been. Shortly after the report’s release, the state, under Governor Gina Raimondo, took over the Providence schools, confident that they could produce a major turnaround in a reasonable timeframe of five years. Earlier this year, Mayor Smiley and the City Council crafted a plan to retake control of the schools since little improvement had occurred.
But at the end of August, State Education Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green recommended to the Council on Elementary and Secondary Education, which oversees the schools, to extend the takeover, and her request was approved. “I am recommending an extension of the PPSD intervention for up to three years because the absence of an aligned, shared vision of governance and limited focus on improving student outcomes troubles me and is not conducive to continued success,’’ Infante-Green detailed.
So where are our schools? Clearly, things are going as well as the Washington Bridge!
If you consider the city as a business and you are the chief executive officer, with background and strengths in administration and management, based on test scores outlined by the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) against the Turnaround Action Plan (TAP) goals (see chart), you would spend a substantial amount of your of time at the school department demanding cuts and improved performance.
We would suggest that the mayor set up a satellite office in the school department and show them that the Department of Government Efficiency can work on a local level! It would benefit students, parents, and taxpayers.
Mayor Brett Smiley
Photo by Abbie Lahmers
JohnnyCakes Design & Vintage
Interior Design & Retail
What it is:
A retail space and showroom of unique home furnishings and design services.
Where to find it:
Using Seven Stars Bakery as your starting point, head west on Broadway and look for a Victorian building; the white sign with a pink and blue logo confirms you found it. Walk up the stairs and push open the chestnut doors.
What makes it a Rhody Gem?
Owner Britt Machado is ready to help you “explore all the ways you can zhush up your space!” The former media and entertainment executive relocated from Los Angeles during the pandemic and began customizing and selling high-quality vintage pieces at New England markets, eventually expanding online. Through a bit of serendipity, she opened the JohnnyCakes showroom in July 2024 in a restored 1880s Victorian building. “Shop an array of products including home goods and fine furniture by local makers, as well as the Hudson Valley Lighting Group brands,” says Machado. Working on an interior project? JohnnyCakes can help you bring new life to your space (including your short-term rentals) through styling, design, and staging services.
JohnnyCakes Design & Vintage
378 Broadway
JohnnyCakesDesign.com
@johnnycakesdesign
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 Elyse@HeyRhody.com to suggest yours and we just might feature it!
Photo by Stephanie Ewens, courtesy of JohnnyCakes Design & Vintage
Kitchen Guys (299 Walcott Street, Pawtucket) serves up more than fancy appliances. The Kitchen Guys difference allows customers to purchase the best top-name appliances in Rhode Island for a fraction of the cost of big-box retail stores. “There is no shortage of anything,” says owner Michael Gaffin, and with a 20,000-square-foot showroom, there are endless opportunities to upgrade your home no matter the budget.
Premier Scratch & Dent Appliances are the name of the game at Kitchen Guys, and many of their over 500 appliances have only minor cosmetic damage, often in areas hidden from public view. Pricing at 30-60 percent lower than retail, Kitchen Guys is one of the leading destinations in Rhode Island to purchase stainless steel refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, ovens, ranges, and everything in between.
Inventory moves fast at Kitchen Guys, and any smart shopper is encouraged to visit the Kitchen Guys Showroom to take advantage of their most up-to-date products and prices. Customer service is a priority, and Kitchen Guys even offers delivery outside of Rhode Island. With over 16 years of experience in the appliance industry, Kitchen Guys continues to be the go-to shop for the best appliances around.
SERVICE DIRECTORY
Round Again Records needs your used CDs and records. Cash paid. Call 351-6292.
Neighborhood News
A space made available to Providence’s neighborhood associations free of charge.
HOT TOPICS
An overview of what’s happening around the city right now
New green initiative offers rebate for electric lawn care
The RI Office of Energy Resources (OER) has launched the Electric Leaf Blower Rebate Program to encourage landscaping businesses to use electric leaf blowers. The program aims to encourage the adoption of electric lawn equipment, which will help reduce air pollutants from the landscaping sector and foster environmental sustainability in alignment with the Act on Climate. Other benefits include reducing noise pollution – as electric leaf blowers are quieter than the combustion engine of their counterpart – as well as health benefits, limiting air pollutants that can contribute to asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and other respiratory diseases.
The General Assembly appropriated $250,000 of general revenue funds to OER to implement and administer this program. Landscapers can receive $1,000 or 50 percent of the cost of an electric leaf blower and batteries, with funds awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Businesses in towns with the highest asthma rates (Central Falls, Pawtucket, Providence, Westerly, and Woonsocket) can receive an additional $250. Additionally, Councilor Sue AnderBois of Ward 3 has introduced an ordinance to phase out the use of gas-powered leaf blowers within Providence city limits beginning in 2028. The ordinance has been referred to the Council’s Committee on Environment and Resiliency. Learn more at Energy.RI.gov.
Preservation work commended in Mile of History
The Mile of History Association is delighted to congratulate Traci Picard, senior research assistant at Brown University’s Simmons Center, on receiving the Providence Preservation Society (PPS) 2024 Heritage Stewardship Award. The award recognizes her 10 years of contributions to preserving Rhode Island’s place in American history, especially the lesser-known histories of Providence. A recent example of her work is the “Shakespeare’s Head Research Report,” which she prepared for PPS.
The PPS Preservation Awards recognize outstanding work in the field, including adaptive reuse and community heritage projects, completed in the past two years and spanning South Providence, Valley, Olneyville, Mount Pleasant, Downtown, College Hill, and Fox Point. A wide breadth of places were highlighted, including single-family homes, places of worship, educational buildings, legacy and new community businesses, re-envisioned mills, and even a digital reconstruction of a lost neighborhood. Individuals were also honored for their contributions to preserving beloved places. Winners were selected by a jury of design and preservation experts outside of the state, and celebrated at a ceremony on November 19. For the full list of awardees, visit PPSRI.org.
West Broadway’s interactive new website
The West Broadway Neighborhood Association (WBNA) recently launched their brand new website. After a year and a half of work behind the scenes, a grant from the RI State Small Business Hub, and expertise from Inspiration Global, WBNA is excited to share their new, improved, and more user-friendly website with neighbors. Some of the new features include a Neighborhoods tab with history about the West End, demographics, info about community resources such as recycling programs and a member toolbank, current projects, and more. Interactive features allow members to sign up with a username and password to access membership status and donations records, as well as download a tax receipt. If you have already paid for your membership and would like to access this feature, email WBNA@wbna.org to set it up. Business members can join to post jobs and community bulletins. For more ways to get involved with WBNA, save the date for their Annual Meeting on January 28, from 5:30-7:30pm, with a location to be determined. WBNA.org
Shakespeare’s Head Garden
Providence Neighborhood Associations
BLACKSTONE PARKS CONSERVANCY
Jane Peterson
P.O. Box 603141
Providence, RI 02906
401-270-3014
BlackstoneParks@gmail.com
BlackstoneParksConservancy.org
COLLEGE HILL
NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
Rick Champagne
P.O. Box 2442 Providence, RI 02906
CHNA@chnaprovidence.org CHNAProvidence.org
DOWNTOWN NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
Kristin McGinn, President 401-580-2628
Facebook: Downtown Providence Neighborhood Association
IG: @DNAPVD
Email: DNAPVD@gmail.com
ELMWOOD NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
Jen Vincent
JenniferDaltonVincent@gmail.com
Facebook: Elmwood Neighborhood Association PVD
FOX POINT
NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
Peter Phipps
P.O. Box 2315
Providence, RI 02906
FoxPointNeighborhood@gmail.com FPNA.net
JEWELRY DISTRICT ASSOCIATION
Sharon Steele
Sharon@sharonsteele.com
JewelryDistrict.org
Facebook: Jewelry District Association Providence, RI
MILE OF HISTORY ASSOCIATION
Charles Hewitt, Secretary C/O One Governor Street, Providence
MOUNT HOPE COMMUNITY CENTER
401-521-8830
MHNAInc@gmail.com
Facebook: Mount Hope Neighborhood Association, Inc.
NORTH END NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
Providence City Councilor Justin Roias 401-282-9978
JustinRoiasWard4@gmail.com
OLNEYVILLE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
Cindy Miranda, Board Chair
Cindy@ona-providence.org
Facebook: ONA Providence
PROVIDENCE COALITION OF NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATIONS
Info@provcna.org
ProvCNA.org
RESERVOIR TRIANGLE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
David Talan
25 Santiago St., Providence, RI 02907
401-941-3662
DaveTalan@aol.com
SMITH HILL PARTNERS’ INITIATIVE
Wole Akinbi
400 Smith Street Providence, RI 02908 Suite #1
AAkinbi@half-full.com
Facebook: Smith Hill Partners’ Initiative
SOUTH PROVIDENCE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
P.O. Box 5653
Providence, RI 02903 • 401-369-1334
SouthProvNeighbors@gmail.com
Facebook: South Providence
Neighborhood Association
SMITH HILL PARTNERS’ INITIATIVE
Wole Akinbi
400 Smith Street
Providence, RI 02908 Suite #1
AAkinbi@half-full.com
Facebook: Smith Hill Partners’ Initiative
SOUTH PROVIDENCE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
P.O. Box 5653
Providence, RI 02903 • 401-369-1334
SouthProvNeighbors@gmail.com
Facebook: South Providence Neighborhood Association
SUMMIT NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
P.O. Box 41092
Providence, RI 02940
SNAProv@gmail.com
SummitNeighbors.org
WASHINGTON PARK
NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
BettyLinda@aol.com
Facebook: Washington Park Association
WAYLAND SQUARE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
Katherine Touafek
Facebook: Wayland Square
Neighborhood Association
WaylandSquareNeighbors@gmail.com
WEST BROADWAY NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
1560 Westminster Street
Providence, RI 02909
401-831-9344
WBNA@wbna.org • WBNA.org
Photo
WHO Celebrating Our at TO WATCH
Thursday, April 24th
Join us at Track 15 for an exciting event celebrating Rhode Island’s rising stars! Get ready to be inspired by talented individuals making waves in their industries. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to network and connect with like-minded individuals.
MEET the 2025 honorees
EXPLORE Providence’s newest food hall
LIVE MUSIC to entertain through the night
TRY a selection of food from the Track 15 restaurants
40 EXCHANGE TERRACE, PROVIDENCE PURCHASE TICKETS
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
Installation view of The Art of French Wallpaper Design on view through May 11, 2025 at the RISD Museum
T e Must List
10 essential events this month
January 1: The Harlem Globetrotters dribble into Providence on their 2025 World Tour with a family-friendly afternoon of legendary spins, dunks, slams and more, while taking on their longtime rivals, the Washington Generals. AmicaMutualPavilion.com
January 4, 11, 18 & 25: Dancers of all levels are invited to experience the rhythm, energy, and joy of two of the most popular Latin dance styles at the Bachata/Merengue Dance series held at the Gateway Center. RWPConservancy.org
January 20: Join the Ministers Alliance of Rhode Island for the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Breakfast honoring Rhodes on the Pawtuxet scholars, including seven students who will receive scholarships. MinistersAllianceRI.org
Through May 11: The Art of French Wallpaper presents over 100 rare samples that explore the lively designs that adorned the walls of French chateaus and castles in the 1700s and 1800s. RISDMuseum.org
January 21-26: MJ The Musical is a Tony Award-winning show centered around the making of the 1992 “Dangerous” World Tour. The story gives a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status. PPACRI.org
January 23-February 9: Wilbury Theatre Group stages THE FATHER: A Tragic Farce , winner of the Molière award for France’s best play, about the story of André, an 80-year-old man dealing with the loss of everything near and dear to him. TheWilburyGroup.org
January 23-February 16: Presented in partnership with the Women’s Work Theatre Collaborative, Hang by British playwright debbie tucker green, is a politically engaging drama about a criminal whose fate is put in the hands of his victim. Pawtucket, BurbageTheatre.org
January 23-February 23: Someone Will Remember Us is a new production that connects the real-life testimonies of US military veterans, Iraqi civilians, a Gold Star family, and refugees living in New England. TrinityRep.com
January 25: Enjoy tasty IPAs and rich winter stouts when Rhode Island Brewfest returns to the WaterFire Arts Center for two ticketed sessions featuring over 50 of the region’s top brewers serving 200+ styles of beer. RIBrewfest.com
January 26-February 8: Two weeks of world-class dining await when Providence Restaurant Weeks returns with deals and specials for breakfast, lunch, and dinner at dozens of local eateries, including some offering prix fixe menus. GoPro v idence.com
Photo courtesy of Rhode Island School of Design
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OUR ANNUAL SEARCH FOR UP-AND-COMING LOCAL CHANGEMAKERS GOES STATEWIDE
EDITED
BY
ABBIE LAHMERS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
NICK DELGIUDICE
Save the Date: Our Who to Watch Party celebrating the honorees takes place April 24 at Track 15 in Providence. Watch for details and ticket sales to be posted online, and follow @heyrhody for updates.
It has long been a tradition for Pro v idence Monthly to shine the spotlight on a group of visionaries and changemakers with big plans for the capital city. This year marks a new tradition as our annual Who to Watch feature not only appears in each of our four magazines but also casts the net wide, identifying rising stars not only within Providence city limits but all of Rhode Island. Some of our small-but-mighty state’s most industrious and creative leaders may not be known to you yet, but it’s likely that if you’ve relished time spent on our sweeping shores, partaken in locally grown food, or spotted larger-than-life troll sculptures, you have a handful of these individuals to thank for those experiences. These honorees are rolling up their sleeves to forge new career pathways in the arts and business sectors, make groundbreaking medical advances, enhance workflow efficiency with innovative tech, develop a long-anticipated food hall, dismantle stigmas surrounding cannabis, cultivate connections with the land, and even help combat climate change with kelp. If you’re entering 2025 feeling uncertain about the future, look up from your doomscrolling and let these 10 visionaries quell your anxieties.
Who to Watch honorees each answered five questions about their work and plans for the city in 2025; answers were minimally edited or trimmed by our team to account for space. To learn more, follow each individual on social media or online.
Watch Ericka Joy Atwell-Cardona Put RI’s International Film Festival on the Map
Tell us about yourself, your connection to Rhode Island, and your work.
December marked one year since my husband Joshua and I returned to West Warwick after working a decade in Hollywood. In January, I launched EJOYA Productions, driven by my passion for storytelling, creativity, and empowerment. My work is focused on connecting people and uplifting their potential. I’m committed to helping Rhode Island’s creative community flourish.
What’s your motivation for doing this work?
Through EJOYA, I inspire local talent by partnering with the Artists’ Exchange to offer acting classes, workshops, and on-camera intensives, leveraging my Hollywood experience and network. I also coach public speaking and confidence. Driven by the “Hollywood hustle,” I’m dedicated to creating opportunities for the local community and helping others realize their potential. At RIIFF, I work to elevate the festival’s local and global presence. I forge media partnerships, host impactful industry panels, build local alliances, recruit interns, and create memorable red carpet moments.
In what ways do you hope to leave an impact on the Ocean State in the coming year?
One thing I learned in Hollywood is that a dream isn’t a sprint – it’s a marathon. In the years to come, I hope the seeds I’ve planted continue to grow, and I look forward to contributing to RI’s production scene. I’m committed to nurturing local talent and offering opportunities for others to climb, whether through mentoring interns at RIIFF or supporting creatives through EJOYA. There’s so much joy in this work!
What challenges do you anticipate having to overcome to achieve these goals?
Honestly, I don’t focus on challenges – I tackle them head-on and move forward. My time in Hollywood has made me resilient and adaptable, and I’m ready to face whatever comes my way. I approach obstacles as opportunities to learn and grow, and I’m confident that whatever challenges arise in 2025, I’ll overcome them.
What’s your reason for optimism approaching 2025?
I’m optimistic because I know I’m walking with purpose and light. All of my hard work, sacrifices, and experiences have come together in ways I couldn’t have imagined – and it’s still unfolding. With myself at the helm and my brother Bo watching over me, I’m confident I won’t be disappointed. I’ve learned to bet on myself, and what once felt like a curse – my ambition – has become my greatest strength. I hope to encourage others to have the same mindset. There’s room for everyone to shine!
Watch Joann (Jo) Ayuso Create Access to the Outdoors for City Youth
Tell us about yourself, your connection to Rhode Island, and your work.
I have been a resident of Rhode Island for 18 years, most of those years in Providence, and now I live by the water. I advocate for clean soil, water, and air for those who don’t have it. Growing up in cities, my relationship with the water was estranged. Because of that, I created MEO to provide urban and low-income youth with outdoor experiences. Our water programs let youth form connections to the worlds inside the ocean, especially through sharing knowledge about kelp and oysters.
What’s your motivation for doing this work?
I do this work because there are people in my community who have little to no access to the shoreline, green spaces, pollution-free air, fresh seafood, lead-free water, or lead-free soil or land to grow food in a garden. MEO works to create access to these essential resources, while sharing how vital it is to keep living waterways, used for food and recreation, healthy for generations to come.
In what ways do you hope to leave an impact on the Ocean State in the coming year?
Everything we do is for the next seven generations. MEO creates safe opportunities for our urban and low-income youth in the outdoors. MEO is planning an oyster restoration project in the Providence River, mirroring the practices of the Billion Oyster project in NYC. We believe all community members should be able to be involved in this process to ensure it is a cleaner space for people to visit and spend time on.
What challenges do you anticipate having to overcome to achieve these goals?
As a new non-profit, the biggest challenge is funding. MEO relies on funding from grants and individual donors. There are two of us on staff and we look forward to growing our team to continue to work for our community. Another challenge is buy-in – stakeholders from the State House, universities, policy-makers, and residents who want the same thing but either refuse or do not know how to support governance models led by those most impacted to be part of the solution.
What’s your reason for optimism approaching 2025?
As a community we move forward in times that are uncertain. I believe and trust in the circle of people I work with. We gather, share resources, and support our mental and overall health and safety.
Watch Louise Bishop Create a Trail of Tourism in South County
President at South County Tourism Council • (she/her)
Tell us about yourself, your connection to Rhode Island, and your work.
I was born and raised just north of Hartford, Connecticut, and spent many summers exploring and enjoying Rhode Island’s coastline. Now, I’m fortunate to call Westerly – a picturesque part of the Ocean State – my home. Professionally, my work focuses on enhancing the region’s tourism appeal while ensuring that we preserve the very essence of what makes South County and Rhode Island so special.
What’s your motivation for doing this work?
The tourism industry plays a vital role in Rhode Island’s economy as the third-largest economic driver in the state. South County, in particular, has long been known for its beautiful shoreline, drawing visitors from around the world. However, I see an opportunity to diversify and expand the region’s appeal by highlighting its rich natural and cultural assets beyond just the coast. One initiative I’m especially proud of is the introduction of the Rhode Island Troll Trail. This project, which launched last May in Charlestown, features recycled art sculptures created by internationally acclaimed artist Thomas Dambo.
In what ways do you hope to leave an impact on the Ocean State in the coming year?
Looking ahead, I hope to further enhance Rhode Island’s outdoor attractions by developing beautification plans for several key parks. This initiative aims to give visitors a more immersive experience of the state’s natural beauty. One of my most exciting projects is expanding the Atlantis Rising International Sand Sculpture Competition. This event draws master sand sculptors from around the world, and by growing its scope, we can solidify Rhode Island’s reputation as a cultural and artistic destination.
What challenges do you anticipate having to overcome to achieve these goals?
While we’ve made great progress, the primary challenge remains our timeline. These projects – such as expanding the Troll Trail and developing beautification plans – are large in scope and require careful planning and collaboration. They are not quick fixes, but I’m confident that with the right partnerships and community involvement, we will overcome these challenges.
What’s your reason for optimism approaching 2025?
As we approach 2025, my optimism is grounded in the unwavering support and enthusiasm of our tourism partners. We have received tremendous backing from local chambers of commerce, town managers, and the community. This collaboration has been crucial in driving the success of our projects and initiatives.
Watch Melissa Bouchard Help Companies Leverage Tech to Streamline Workflows
Tell us about yourself, your connection to Rhode Island, and your work.
Rhode Island has always been my home – it’s where I was born, raised, and began my education at the Community College of Rhode Island and Rhode Island College. In 2019, two local colleagues and I took a bold step and established Fusion3 Consulting. We saw firsthand how businesses struggled with disjointed systems, often relying on email and isolated applications that hindered productivity. Our boutique technology and implementation consultancy was created to address this need. We are committed to helping organizations adopt integrated platforms that enhance workflows, improve collaboration, and drive meaningful growth.
What’s your motivation for doing this work?
My motivation is rooted in helping companies – and the people within them – discover more effective ways to work. Every project at Fusion3 is driven by a commitment to improve efficiency and make day-to-day tasks easier with technology. Many companies find themselves stuck with clunky processes or outdated systems that slow them down. We saw a need for a partner who could not only set up the right tools but also show teams how to make the most of them. After each project, the results are incredibly rewarding and demonstrate the difference. People feel energized and empowered, and their work becomes less of a struggle.
In what ways do you hope to leave an impact on the Ocean State in the coming year?
I aim to elevate Rhode Island’s tech expertise. Fusion3 is dedicated to providing students and career changers with a blend of practical, hands-on training and traditional academics to support the growth of the state’s technology sector.
What challenges do you anticipate having to overcome to achieve these goals?
As a small consulting firm, balancing growth with personalized service is essential. Fusion3 has earned a reputation for close, tailored support, and as we expand, we’ll remain focused on delivering the same high level of expertise and care that distinguishes us. By addressing these challenges directly, we’re confident in our ability to make a significant impact on Rhode Island’s technology landscape.
What’s your reason for optimism approaching 2025?
I’m optimistic because we have the right people in the right roles, aligned with our mission. This combination of talent and shared purpose is powerful. Our team’s passion and dedication will continue to drive meaningful change – not just for our clients, but for the broader business communities we support.
LinkedIn: Melissa Bouchard
Watch Dr. Jacqueline Christophe-Hayot Grow a Workforce for the Future
Executive Director of Professional and Executive Business Education at the University of Rhode Island (URI) College of Business • (she/her)
LinkedIn: Jackie Hayot
Tell us about yourself, your connection to Rhode Island, and your work.
Having lived in various countries and cities, I bring a unique global perspective to my work fostering professional growth and development in Rhode Island. Since joining the College of Business at URI in February 2024, my team and I have grown graduate enrollments, demonstrating a growing recognition of the importance of investing in employees’ professional development. As the state’s flagship institution for business education, URI offers a wide array of programs designed to meet many needs.
What’s
your motivation for doing this work?
Throughout my own educational journey, I experienced firsthand the challenges and rewards of pursuing degrees while working. It took me 11 years after high school to complete my bachelor’s degree, another 16 before I pursued my MBA, and five more years before embarking on my doctorate, which led to finding my dream job. This experience has fueled my passion for encouraging working adults to pursue their educational and career goals, whether it’s a degree, certificate, or higher-paying job. I aim to be a voice that says, “Keep growing, keep learning, and keep pushing forward.”
In what ways do you hope to leave an impact on the Ocean State in the coming year?
The state has been focusing on improving educational outcomes and preparing students for success in the modern economy. The URI College of Business’ initiative to educate working professionals in the Ocean State will play a key role in upskilling the workforce to meet the evolving needs of statewide industries while shaping the future of education, with a focus on accessibility to working professionals, educational equity, practical skills, fostering innovation, and partnering with local businesses.
What challenges do you anticipate having to overcome to achieve these goals?
Economic uncertainty, skill gaps posed by rapid technological changes, a competitive job market, resistance to change, time constraints, and demonstrating return on investment are all challenges we’re prepared to face. It will be crucial to develop strong relationships with businesses to understand their needs, stay informed about grant opportunities, and emphasize the long-term benefits of succession planning, among other strategies.
What’s your reason for optimism approaching 2025?
Record-breaking applications, a diverse student body, expanding graduate programs, alumni success, community engagement, and supportive leadership are all reasons for optimism. The positive outlook and supportive leadership of figures like Dean Sean Rogers in the College of Business create an environment conducive to growth and success.
Watch David DeFrancesco Cultivate Local Food and Resources for Farmers
Tell us about yourself, your connection to Rhode Island, and your work.
Born in Rhode Island, I work in Washington County, where I live with my wife Sheri and two amazing children, Noa and Ione. In 2017, I co-founded the RI Farm Incubator, a 501(c) (3) operating on the 91-acre Shewatuck Farm in North Kingstown, where I serve as farm manager. It’s an honor and privilege to live and work in Rhode Island, where I’m able to focus on what’s really important day to day.
What’s your motivation for doing this work?
My motivation comes from the people working toward a vision of uplifting local food, which supports both the community and growers. If increasing locally grown food is a priority in Rhode Island, how can we help those doing the work overcome critical barriers to success? The RI Farm Incubator allows us to mitigate the cost of overhead for farmers and food producers, including those growing at Shewatuck Farm. Those barriers include access to fertile, flat farm land, which is hard to find and challenging to rent or buy, as well as access to clean irrigation water, GAP (Good Agricultural Practices) certification, networks for solving integrated pest management challenges, production methods and supply chain support, storage, packaging, marketing, sales, and customer service. The incubator has centralized all of that in a food-safe facility for growers to utilize.
In what ways do you hope to leave an impact on the Ocean State in the coming year?
Seeing the growers at Shewatuck Farm continue to expand their businesses – with value-added production and planning around what’s in demand – makes a huge difference, as well as seeing more families opting for a local supply of seasonal produce.
What challenges do you anticipate having to overcome to achieve these goals?
My challenge is to determine how to maximize the availability of land at Shewatuck Farm, keep the lights and cooler on, fund our existing programs, and expand our board of partners to build on our solid foundation with new energy and ideas. There are also all of the challenges that come with running a small nonprofit, and for me, balancing a workload of construction and farming.
What’s your reason for optimism approaching 2025?
There is work to do. That sense of responsibility can drive motivation in ways that help to keep a positive attitude in the workplace. Collaboration between well-intended people is a powerful force.
Watch Bri Duffy Spark Change in Perception of Cannabis Culture
Co-Owner of High Society RI • (she/her)
@bakedbrieeeee, @highsocietyri, @highskooliebus
Tell us about yourself, your connection to Rhode Island, and your work.
My partner David Macomb and I come from families scarred by addiction and trauma. Cannabis has been a lifeline and a source of healing in our battles with anxiety and depression. High Society RI is a multifaceted cannabis experiential marketing agency that connects dispensaries and cultivators with the public through direct, engaging interactions. In 14 months, we’ve hosted over 85 exclusive pop-up socials and offer the CannaBus for private parties, creating Rhode Island’s most unique, enjoyable, and safe cannabis consumption events. High Society supports restaurants in underserved communities, having generated over $100,000 in revenue for restaurant partners.
What’s your motivation for doing this work?
Our motivation comes from a deep desire to change perceptions about cannabis in public spaces. It’s hard not to see the double standard: people bring their children to buy alcohol or cigarettes, yet we face judgment for simply enjoying a joint in a public setting. We aim to create a safe, welcoming environment that helps normalize cannabis use. AURA Cannabis Co. has been the most supportive partner in this endeavor.
In what ways do you hope to leave an impact on the Ocean State in the coming year?
We’re working toward becoming Providence’s first legal cannabis consumption club with a physical location, rooted in integrity, respect, and a commitment to following every regulation and law. We want to leave a legacy here, not just as business owners, but as kids from an underserved community who stood up to create something positive.
What challenges do you anticipate having to overcome to achieve these goals?
One of our greatest concerns is the possibility that Rhode Island might limit cannabis consumption lounge licenses to dispensaries. Doing business here can feel like both a blessing and a curse – it often comes down to money and connections, and it’s the wealthy who come out on top. We’re here fighting not just for our own dreams but for our community, for people who deserve a seat at the table.
What’s your reason for optimism approaching 2025?
We’ve already moved mountains in this industry. While we do this work out of passion, it’s the joy we see at our events that fuels our optimism. We hold onto hope that Rhode Island will recognize the unwavering support we’ve given to the city of Providence and allow us to continue leading the way for cannabis events.
Watch
Meet Unmet Needs in Women’s Healthcare
Tell us about yourself, your connection to Rhode Island, and your work.
For over five decades, my career has centered around life sciences, particularly MedTech. As the FemTech founder and CEO of a women-owned Rhode Island-based medical device company, my focus is on healthcare solutions that make a difference in patient care. My family and I chose to live in Rhode Island 46 years ago, and my commitment to Narragansett remains strong, serving on various town committees, advocating for business growth, and securing grants for community improvement. I am passionate about the performing arts and continue to take weekly ballet classes.
What’s your motivation for doing this work?
I am energized by launching groundbreaking medical and surgical devices. In 2020, my small team was invited to compete in a US Air Force challenge to facilitate female aviators urinating mid-mission; we were named an award finalist in a pool of 57 submissions. We shifted our focus from aviators to addressing the needs of “the forgotten woman” – women over 60 who experience functional urinary incontinence; these women are two times more likely to need long-term care. Our design aims to meet the needs of patients and caregivers, delaying or avoiding moving from home.
In what ways do you hope to leave an impact on the Ocean State in the coming year?
Growing the life sciences sector is a strategic goal for Rhode Island, and my company focus aligns with enhancing our presence in the medical device industry and creating manufacturing jobs in the state. We have identified collaboration opportunities with several research and design firms and contract manufacturers. We plan to leverage Rhode Island’s expertise in fabric technology.
What challenges do you anticipate having to overcome to achieve these goals?
Securing funding is a significant challenge for many start-ups. We were awarded an Accelerator Grant from the New England Medical Innovation Center in 2023, and in 2024, were recognized as finalists in the Rhode Island Business Competition. While seeking angel investors, we actively apply for Rhode Island Innovation Vouchers, grants, and federal funding.
What’s your reason for optimism approaching 2025?
The feedback on our product has been overwhelmingly positive, and there’s a clear unmet need for women with functional incontinence. We have assembled an exceptional advisory board of urology doctors nationwide, and my team possesses extensive experience as commercialization experts. We’re well-equipped to compete against larger companies while advancing innovative healthcare solutions.
Watch Chris Marsella Build Solutions
Evolving City Center
Tell us about yourself, your connection to Rhode Island, and your work.
I’m originally from Warwick but my professional life is in Providence. My family has been investing in the city center for more than 50 years, from conceiving of the railroad relocation in the 1970s to realizing the Providence Performing Arts Center. That commitment to the city is in my DNA and I’ve been deeply engaged in historic preservation, tourism, and more. Marsella Properties is a property management firm managing assets across the state, and through Marsella Development, we get to go out and build, including Track 15, the food hall my family is developing at Union Station.
What’s your motivation for doing this work?
I have been fortunate to travel the world, and I still catch myself in awe of Providence and the work it took to create that renaissance over the last 40 years while ensuring the historic fabric is protected for the next 400. Downtowns have changed a lot, and while there is so much to experience in Providence, there is still a lot to be done. We need to come together and think about rising tides. If we can’t do that in this small, interwoven state of ours, no one can.
In what ways do you hope to leave an impact on the Ocean State in the coming year?
Along with opening Track 15 – a dream five years in the making for my family – I will continue to focus on how downtown Providence can evolve. We need people to move their businesses here. Growing that economic base is critical and we need to start thinking outside of the box on policies and approaches to attract businesses and talent.
What challenges do you anticipate having to overcome to achieve these goals?
While we have our fair share of vacancies in office buildings, we do have beautiful buildings ripe for conversions to residential. It’s time for our elected officials to start recognizing the importance of incentives and programs. That will be my focus in 2025 – to get the right people together to create a solution.
What’s your reason for optimism approaching 2025?
Our food hall will finally be open! It’s been a long road, but I am so proud of the work my family and our team has done. I can’t wait to open the doors and share a destination with residents and visitors that tells the history of our city and state while showcasing the future of its people.
Watch Enyu (Alaina) Zhang Transform Kelp into a Sustainable Solution
Tell us about yourself, your connection to Rhode Island, and your work.
From the moment I arrived in Rhode Island, I felt a bond with a community deeply connected to water, nature, and shared values. My research applies microalgae and macroalgae to address climate change. I’ve developed a bioplastic from sea lettuce, and partnered with Roger Williams University, the University of Rhode Island, and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management to launch a kelp farm in Narragansett Bay. Under Dr. Di Lorenzo at Brown University, I drafted a manuscript now under review in Frontiers in Marine Science .
What’s your motivation for doing this work?
Growing up near Chao Lake in Anhui, China, where cyanobacteria blooms were common, I developed an early awareness of environmental issues. The overgrowth of green algae devastated fisheries and negatively affected the local community, including my family. I recognized the familiar smell of decaying algae near Narragansett Bay, and conducted a research project that transformed waste seaweed into biodegradable plastic. This prompted me to ask, why not turn the seaweed into a natural, sustainable solution to the excessive nutrients in the water? I then developed a model to characterize how sugar kelp farms can serve as a sustainable solution to environmental issues.
In what ways do you hope to leave an impact on the Ocean State in the coming year?
I hope to collaborate with local aquaculture farmers, using climate models to support them in mitigating climate impacts. My research is rooted in community needs, and I aim to use this model to address environmental challenges. I also want to create educational opportunities, such as grants and mentorships, for K-12 students. My ultimate goal is to become an environmental lawyer.
What challenges do you anticipate having to overcome to achieve these goals?
Establishing strong partnerships with local farmers and community stakeholders will be challenging, especially when it comes to translating climate model data into actionable insights, and I’ll need to navigate funding constraints to create accessible educational opportunities for others.
What’s your reason for optimism approaching 2025?
I see increasing commitment to environmental issues across the region. People are receptive to scientific insights, especially when connected to tangible outcomes. Working alongside local farmers, for instance, has shown me the value of combining community knowledge with scientific tools like climate models. I believe that this type of collaboration will only grow, and I’m excited to be a part of it.
We are committed to fostering collaboration and building a robust network among professionals dedicated to advancing aesthetic medicine.
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We strive to set and maintain the highest standards of practice among the aesthetic providers in Rhode Island. We place emphasis on excellence, professionalism, safety, and continued education to ensure exceptional patient care and outcomes.
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HOME & STYLE
Home | Rhody Reads | Influencer | Shop
Calm, Cool, and Collected
Clever built-ins and hidden storage keep a busy family’s Colonial chic and organized
By Elyse Major
Alan and Kait Yick both worked in NYC and lived in New Jersey, but always pictured making their way back to the Ocean State to raise a family. They made good on that promise shortly after the birth of their first child, packing their bags and staying with Kait’s sister and brother-in-law in Narragansett while they searched for a house. It didn’t take long for the couple to fall for the picturesque neighborhood with its close proximity to the water, and despite limited real estate offerings, soon found and purchased a home. However, there was this other house around the corner that caught their eye.
“We always admired this beautiful Colonial on our family walks,” Kait begins, “with gorgeous gardens that looked plenty big enough for our growing family.” The Yicks soon heard through mutual friends that the owners might be interested in selling. “Sure enough, six years later – and hundreds of walks and bike rides of admiring the house from afar – our friends put us in contact, and we toured the home. We knew we loved it immediately and worked out a purchase and sale agreement.”
Once the house was theirs, Alan and Kait wanted
to make some modifications to suit their family. Says Kait, “We knew we wanted clean, bright, airy, natural, kind of modern, kind of classic, kind of beachy, kind of farmhouse… and we also have three kids so we realized that we had to factor that in as well.” Alan explains their decorating style falls in the “we think we know what we like but we don’t know how to do it” so they called White Slate Studio, a nearby interior design business. “Julie [Sanford] and Rachel [Pappas] really made our vision come to life!”
A playroom offers space for play along with desks and task lighting for each child
Photo courtesy of White Slate Studio
IN PRINT
Leading Ladies is a multi-page section within the March 2025 issues of Providence Monthly, So Rhode Island, The Bay, and Hey Rhody!
• Professionally written by our editorial staff
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MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
Join us in celebrating the Leading Ladies of 2025, taking place at the end of March - Details Coming Soon!
Celebrate Women in Business in the Ocean State in Leading Ladies , an annual sponsored content section in our March 2025 Issues!
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LEADING LADIES
seating makes the most of a small room
Modular
Sanford and Pappas got to work on a host of both cosmetic updates and custom work, which included installing floating benches and shelves to both sides of the dining room fireplace and the unexpected use of shiplap in a vaulted living room ceiling. “Maybe our favorite custom build is the simple white desk we built for the playroom where the kids can sit and draw, work on art projects, or do homework,” says Sanford.
Rugs create zones in the open floor plan
Fast forward to today: Alan is co-founder and broker at Key Real Estate, and Kait maintains that the best thing about living in South County is the community. “The family values are so strong,” Kait begins. “The people are kind, caring, and loving, and raising their children to be the same. The schools and teachers are amazing. We couldn’t imagine a happier and more wholesome place to be raising our family.”
2025: A New Year, A New Glow
Begin 2025 with radiant skin. Whether you're combating fine lines, aging spots, acne, or simply seeking a youthful refresh, we’re here to provide the care and solutions your skin needs. Our team of experts use the latest technology and treatments to ensure you look and feel your best all year long.
Layered objects in front of the round mirror include art by Rachel Pappas
Potted house plants infuse rooms with natural elements
Get Rhody Style
Ideas and resources for making the most of living in the Ocean State.
SoCo Love
“We have lots of local favorites and most of them sell coffee, food, and ice cream!” says Kait Yick with a chuckle, rattling off Brickley’s, Monahans, Twin Willows, Meldgies, Nana’s, Coffee Connection, and Fuel. “We go to Lakeside Trading for all of our outdoor needs, Jerry’s for our home-project supplies, POW Science for toys, Wakefield Books, and Crosswnyds Traders for ‘Gansett gear.”
Greenhouse Vibes
In addition to health benefits like ridding the air of common toxins and reducing noise, house plants are designer pets for adding fresh style, filling awkward spaces, and adding shape and color. Plants shown are from The Farmer’s Daughter in South Kingstown.
Neutral Zone
Narragansett-based White Slate Studio specializes in designing beautiful, functional spaces through hard and soft finishes, custom installations, and more. From high-end residential to boutique-style commercial interiors and retail spaces, owner and lead designer Julie Sanford works directly with clients at conception to learn their vision, resulting in oneof-a-kind spaces. Learn more at WhiteSlateStudio.com.
Photo courtesy of White Slate Studio
THIS MUST BE THE PLACE Award-winning wings and top-notch service are
the stars at PJ’s Pub in Cranston
Whether it’s your first visit, or you’ve been stopping in for the past 16 years, if PJ’s is known for one thing, it’s hospitality. Walk through the doors, and you’ll always be met with an immediate and cheerful “hello!” Owners Paul Voigt and Johnny Krikorian believe that the definition of a pub is more than just a place for food and drinks to be served, and together with their team they have successfully created a smalltown bar with a top-class reputation.
Known familiarly as the “bar where everyone knows your name,” it’s a weekday hot spot for the lunch and football crowd. The menu features favorites like fried
pickles and poutine, alongside signatures like the four-stack grilled peanut butter and jelly, and the mile-high Johnny K burger. Look up, and a massive menu of their awardwinning wings and sauces stretches over the bar.
Late night, the music turns up and the lights dim, and you can find regulars cozied up with cocktails into the red leather banquets. As with all the locations in the PJ’s Hospitality Group, five-star service and quality drinks are the priorities, and seasonal favorites like the S’mores Martini and Smoked Maple Bourbon top their cocktail list at the moment (insiders know there’s a few more infamous – and risqué – martinis that
aren’t printed on the menu).
Under the glow of classic neon bar lights, they’re also known for being one of the few spots in town to keep the kitchen open late – the entire menu is available until 1am, seven days a week.
“For the past 16 years, we have earned our reputation with a stellar combination of great food and friendly people,” says Voigt. This reputation makes PJ’s the go-to for catering, as well –they’re already gearing up for Super Bowl parties.
PJ’s Pub is open 12pm-1am seven days a week at 1139 Pontiac Avenue, Cranston. Find food, drink, and catering menus at PJS-Pub.com.
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Rhody Reads
New releases and author events to fill your winter calendar
By Robin Kall
Welcome to a brand-new year of reading! 2025 is already shaping up to be one of the biggest years for fiction and I am so excited to share some of my favorites with you. This list includes a blend of bookish things I enjoy, beloved authors, and authors I met at their debuts who now have a second novel.
Since her popular debut, Prep , Curtis Sittenfeld has gone on to write favorites such as Eligible, American Wife, Romantic Comedy , and coming your way on February 25 is her second collection of stories, Show Don’t Tell . In this witty and heartfelt collection, Sittenfeld explores marriage, friendship, fame, and artistic ambition with her signature humor and insight. From a woman revisiting old friends after a divorce to an artist challenging the “Mike Pence Rule,” each story is a deep dive into the complexities of life and relationships.
I have been reading Mirvis’ books since 1999’s The Ladies Auxiliary . On February 11, We Would Never hits the shelves. In this page-turner, family peacemaker Hailey Gelman is shocked when she’s suspected of murdering her soon-to-be ex-husband, Jonah. As tensions rise during a bitter divorce and custody battle over their daughter Maya, Hailey’s family steps in to protect her at any cost. Her mother Sherry will go to extreme lengths, brother Nate can’t stay away, and their father Solomon hides a dangerous secret.
From the treasured author who brought us unforgettable novels such as Still Alice, Inside the O’Briens, Lo v e Anthony, and Left Neglected comes Lisa Genova’s greatly anticipated novel, More or Less Maddy on January 14. In Genova’s latest, a stressed-out NYU freshman is diagnosed with bipolar disorder after a devastating low and a wild manic spiral. Instead of choosing a “normal” life, she embarks on a career in stand-up comedy, grappling with her mental health, identity, and dreams.
Charmaine Wilkerson’s Black Cake was a stunning debut that went on to become an acclaimed Hulu series. Readers can look forward to the January 28 release of Good Dirt Ebby Freeman’s life is forever altered when she witnesses her brother’s shooting, the crime still unsolved and tied to a cherished family heirloom. Growing up in a wealthy New England neighborhood, the Freeman family’s story has always been under public scrutiny. As she uncovers the secrets of her family’s history, she discovers that the heirloom jar may hold the key to her future.
The Kindest Lie by Nancy Johnson is a book that has stayed with me largely because of the well-drawn characters. In People of Means , out February 11, Freda and her daughter Tulip navigate pivotal moments in history while chasing justice and equality. In 1959, Freda faces the harsh realities of the Jim Crow South while balancing love and activism. Decades later, in 1992, Tulip, a rising PR star in Chicago, must confront workplace discrimination and a powerful call to action.
It’s hard to believe that Take My Hand was Dolen Perkins-Valdez’ debut; she follows it up with Happy Land , which comes out April 8. Inspired by true events, Happy Land tells the tale of Nikki, who embarks on a journey to uncover her family’s mysterious past when her estranged grandmother calls with a shocking request. What begins as a search for answers turns into a mind-blowing tale of a hidden kingdom in the hills of North Carolina, ruled by Nikki’s great-great-great-grandmother.
ABOUT ROBIN KALL
Based in East Greenwich, since 2002 Kall has been connecting readers and writers via author events and interviews, book clubs, giveaways, a podcast, and online platforms.
READING WITH ROBIN EVENTS
JANUARY 11: Join Robin Kall and publishing coach Lisa Tener for the Seaside Writing Retreat for Creative Flow , promising lively discussion, a delicious lunch, writing prompts, a Q&A, writerly swag, and more. Narragansett, LisaTener.com
JANUARY 15: Join NYT
Bestselling author Fiona Davis for an evening of wine and charcuterie at Newport Art Club, followed by conversation and book signing. Ticket includes a copy of The Stolen Queen and a book club Zoom chat with Davis on February 26. Newport, RobinKall.com
JANUARY 22: A conversation and book signing with NYT
Bestselling author Lisa Genova includes a copy of More or Less Maddie and a sweet treat from Sweenor’s Chocolates. Westerly, RobinKall.com
Please consider patronizing your local independent bookstore when making book purchases.
FEBRUARY 13: National bestselling author Tova Mirvis presents We Would Never. Location is TBD; enroll in the RWR email list for updates. RobinKall.com
Meet Kou Tukala Nyan
From poetry to being a notary public, this busy writer does it all
By Alexandra Ashe
Our readers know you from your dining experience articles. Any favorites to share?
Oh my, this is like asking what my favorite plant in my garden is! If you’re in Providence craving great food and drinks (cocktails included), The Point Tavern, The Patio on Broadway, and Brickway On Wickenden. Some favorite brunch spots have been Slice of Heaven in Jamestown, The Rhody Hen Cafe (East Providence, North Providence, and Pawtucket), and Blue Plate Diner in Middletown. And Twin Oaks in Cranston (fall-off-the-bone meat, people!). I also loved the Crime and Cuisine tour on Federal Hill.
What do you like most about the writing process?
As someone who finds herself involved in many random activities, it’s hard to stop and reflect, and sometimes, you have moments when you think your efforts don’t matter. I want people to know that they matter. Every art form is communication. It’s heartwarming to know that whatever I put into the world makes people connect, be inspired, or make their day easier or brighter. I hope that through everything I do, I make a difference.
How did your poetry book come to be?
Jesus, Adulting, People in Poetry is a collection of poetry I’ve written throughout my young adulthood. The writing process was both easy and hard. My conflict and blessing is that I love to share and allow ideas to flow out of me, even when battling
Photo (L) by Vintage Girl Studios, courtesy of Kou Tukala Nyan
Tukala Nyan performing at a Mixed Magic Theatre event
discomforts. Then, when the pandemic happened, it was just my book and me, so that’s how it was finally published. When readers finish, I hope they can feel inspired to write if they’ve been sitting on their poetic gifts.
One of your “random activities” is humanitarian causes. Tell us more. I would call myself a “basic needs advocate.” Some of the humanitarian causes I’m most passionate about are those that help people’s social, educational, physical, and mental health at the most basic level. I once stumbled across a video online about homeless women trying to deal with periods, and I was immediately like, “How can I help?” With the help of my church and my friends, I was able to start Project OverFlo, which became a series of events to educate the community about self-care, activism, and effective positive change.
Any special plans for the year ahead? I’m excited to publish my second book Try & Make It Home . It’s a collection of poetry and short stories about people encountering unusual circumstances while trying to go about their day-to-day lives. I’m looking forward to deepening connections and meeting new people. I’d love to continue my adventures in our lil’ ol’ state and beyond, tasting all the great foods and seeing all the great sights! Learn more at KouTukalaNyan.com.
Winter Living
Five philosophies and ways to bring them home all season long
By Emily Homonoff
W
ith short days and temperatures growing brisk, it isn’t surprising that many of us have begun to hibernate. While the winter season can be a great time for selfreflection, it doesn’t have to be all drab and darkness. Cultures across the globe have their own ways of adapting to the difference in order to continue finding fulfillment. Here are some creative concepts from which you can draw inspiration to make your own living space warmer and cozier this winter.
Còsagach: The Scottish term còsagach nearly translates into being snug and warm. Perhaps it’s why the Scots also have a concept known as hurkle-durkle, which means staying in bed a little past your alarm clock so that you can rest. What better way to achieve both than by enveloping yourself in an oversized wool throw and enjoying a hot toddy or big mug of hot chocolate.
Fika: The feeling of holding a warm mug of coffee as the snow falls is delicious. Perhaps this is why the Swedish have coined the term fika. But more so, this concept is about spending that time with friends, getting to hear little details of everyone’s day, and lavishing in the simple things. Of course fika wouldn’t be the tradition it is without a slice of something sweet as well.
The sofas are piled with soft blankets and cushions, inviting you to curl up. Nature is present in the form of evergreen branches gathered on winter walks.
Layers of comfy bedding draw you in as night falls
Photos courtesy of Ryland Peters & Small
Inspired days start in Inspired Closets. Each customized space is designed around you, providing easy access to everything you need to confidently take on the day. Wherever it may take you. Get inspired at InspiredClosetsRI.com.
Inspired Closets Rhode Island DiStefano Brothers Company
Gemütlichkeit: This German term is a combined feeling of warmth, friendliness, and good spirit. While gemütlichkeit is centered around cheery feelings between friends and family, you can create the same sense inside the home, primarily through cooking hearty meals (think stews in Dutch ovens) and having friends over. This concept encourages us to be merry, not just around the holidays and affirms that good humor is a way of life.
Hygge: Perhaps the most notable cozifying concept is hygge, which hails from Denmark, a country often named one of the happiest places on earth. Given that, at its core, hygge is about creating warmth, being content, and embracing the quiet, this should come as no surprise. Reflection is also a hallmark of the hygge lifestyle, so take it as an opportunity to read an engaging book!
RHODY RESOURCES:
Where to find what you need to embrace each concept
CÒSAGACH
BLANKETS: Rhody Warm Wool Blankets: Find stockist farms at RISheep.org
WHISKY: The Savory Grape, East Greenwich
LEG WARMERS: LaBrie Dance, Smithfield
PILLOWS: noon designs, Pawtuxet Village
FIKA
CAFE: Cafe Choklad, Pro v idence
COFFEE BEANS: New Harvest Coffee Roasters, Statewide
MUGS: Arch Contemporary Ceramics, Tiverton
BAKED GOODS: A Slice of Heaven, Jamestown
GEMÜTLICHKEIT
BOARD GAMES: Frog & Toad, Pro v idence
COOKWARE: Wickford Gourmet, North Kingstown
LPS AND CDS: In Your Ear Records, Warren
SEASONED FIREWOOD: J&J Materials, Co v entry
HYGGE
BOOKS: Heartleaf Books, Pro v idence
TAPER CANDLES: Homeport, Newport
HERBAL TEAS: Maeva’s Cottage, Woonsocket
LOUNGEWEAR: Crosswynds Traders, Narragansett
IKIGAI
PLANTS AND FLOWERS: Jephry Floral Studio, Pro v idence
HOMEGOODS: Eclectic Energy, Wakefield
MOOD LIGHTING:
Lighting & Design By J&K Electric, Johnston
ARTWORK: AiR Studio Gallery, Westerly
Ikigai: When you look at your life through the lens of passion, mission, and profession, you start to understand your ikigai, or life’s worth. For decades, this Japanese method has been applied to making the home a more authentic place to be. You can take small things that you love and incorporate them into your dwelling. A core component of ikigai is also removing tech from living spaces – challenge accepted!
A Home for All Seasons by Kay Prestney and Becca Cherry, and Winter Living by Selina Lake, Ryland Peters & Small. Available by request at your favorite local indie bookseller.
Waxflower and eucalyptus in the glass jar on the table add scent to the room
Photo courtesy of Ryland
Peters & Small
FINANCIAL GUIDE 2025
Ways to find, make, and invest in Rhode Island
By
the Editors
SPONSORED BY:
Alicia Cotter Reynolds, Sales Associate at Residential Properties, Ltd.
Anchored in the community, linked globally. Let’s chat about your real estate goals!
Tel: 401-835-2605
Email: areynolds@residentialproperties.com
Website: www.aliciareynoldsrealtor.com
If the thought of the year ahead gives you a case of the Sunday Scaries, you’re not alone. In this guide we present strategies to find money, make money, save money, and invest money so that you can live your best life in the Ocean State.
FIND MONEY
UNCLAIMED PROPERTY: Each year, Treasurer James A. Diossa’s office recovers unclaimed cash and assets from businesses, banks, landlords, safe deposit boxes, and utility companies. More than 300,000 Rhode Islanders have property waiting to be returned to them, and many don’t even realize it; property is kept safe until it can be returned to its rightful owner. Search the database and find out if there is anything with your name on it. FindRIMoney.gov
INCENTIVE CALCULATOR: The Office of Energy Resources, in collaboration with Rewiring America, has launched a home energy incentives calculator for Rhode Island residents to determine their eligibility for both state and federal energy tax credits and rebates, including residential incentives from the federal Inflation Reduction Act and the state’s energy efficiency, renewable energy, electric vehicle, and electric bicycle programs. In addition to federal tax incentives, this calculator shows rebate and incentive programs. Energy.RI.gov
MAKE MONEY
PAYCHECK CHECK: January is the perfect time to review the withholding on your paycheck. Withholding is the amount withheld by an employer that goes directly to the government as a partial payment of income tax. According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), most employees are over-withheld on their taxes, meaning that more taxes than they owe are withheld from their paychecks and that’s how you get a refund. Taxpayers who have children under age 17 may see their refunds increase as a result of the new tax law. The Tax Withholding Estimator tool can provide the info you need to make any adjustments, and then check with your employer on next steps. IRS.gov
INCREASE INCOME: If you’re still finding yourself short on funds, if time allows, it might be worthwhile to consider taking on a side-gig like a rideshare or delivery service, tutoring in a subject, giving music or art lessons, or asking for a raise. Another way is to register at Shop Local RI. This platform makes it simple to sell your products and services to a dedicated regional Rhode Island audience. A business directory profile costs $5, along with other options, including Rising Tide, which offers no admin fees. ShopLocalRI.com
HOMEOWNER’S EQUITY
According to real estate experts, most homeowners are currently experiencing a “game-changing” amount of equity. Equity is the diference between how much your home is worth and how much you owe on your mortgage. Both a home equity loan and a home equity line of credit (HELOC) use your home as collateral to borrow money. Tapping into your home’s equity will also help you build wealth if you do it strategically. Alicia Reynolds, Residential Properties Sales Associate licensed in RI, MA, and CT, explains that 2025 is a great time to look into your home equity. “We’ve all been witnessing the rapid rise of home prices but that means you probably have a lot more equity in your home right now than you realize,” says Reynolds. “By using your home’s equity, you may be able to qualify for a bridge loan or temporary financing to help you secure your dream home. Alternatively, you could make a larger down payment toward your next home by using your equity to borrow less money, potentially get a lower mortgage rate, and avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI). The important thing is to use your equity wisely and it will help build wealth for your future.” AliciaReynoldsRealtor.com, @aliciareynoldsrealtor
Every year, I embark on a creative journey that culminates in the creation of my “re-tree.” (Tiverton Four Corners Arts Center re-Tree Art Contest & Community Exhibition.) This project is not just an artistic endeavor but always a deeply personal exploration—of my childhood memories, my connection to nature, and my passion for blending the past with the present. This year’s theme was a reflection and an organic revelation: “Moon and Stars, Time and Space” reflects my childhood fascination with the cosmos and the boundless possibilities it represents.
As a child, I spent endless hours in a large, attic closet-turned-fort, adjacent to the brick chimney, tinkering with an electronics kit my father gave me and conducting experiments like a pint-sized scientist. This space, filled with my little radio and cassette recorder, was my sanctuary. It was a place where I could let my imagination run wild, creating my own little world. This sense of wonder and creativity is something I strive to bring into my work every day.
This year’s “re-tree” is a physical manifestation of this creative spirit. The exterior is adorned with
doilies, hand-knitted by women, symbolizing the traditional, feminine aspect of my upbringing. Inside, however, is a world of electronics, dinosaurs, and stars–a nod to the typical, maledominated interests that captivated me as a child.
The tree itself is a blend of vintage and modern elements. The portals, made from custard cups and Pyrex dish tops, allow viewers to peer inside and see the stars and lights that adorn the ceiling. This design is inspired by my childhood bedroom, our attic, where I would string up Christmas lights and gaze at the stars, dreaming of the infinite possibilities that lie ahead.
In my professional life, this project serves as a reminder of the importance of creativity and imagination. Financial planning, at its core, is about envisioning a future and making it a reality. Just as I built forts and conducted experiments as a child, I now help my clients build their financial futures, guiding them through the complexities of investments and planning.
The “re-tree” also symbolizes the journey of selfdiscovery and the pursuit of one’s dreams. Many
of my clients come to me with questions about their future, wondering what they will do when they retire or how they can achieve their financial goals. Through my work, I help them reconnect with their own sense of wonder and possibility, encouraging them to dream big and think creatively about their financial plans.
This year’s tree, with its blend of doilies and electronics, stars and dinosaurs, is a testament to the power of imagination and the importance of staying true to oneself. It is a celebration of the past, a nod to the present, and a hopeful look towards the future. By sharing this project with my community, I hope to inspire them to embrace their own creativity and to see the endless possibilities that lie ahead.
The “re-tree” is more than just an art project. It reflects my personal journey, a symbol of the balance between tradition and innovation, and a reminder of the importance of creativity in all aspects of life. Through this project, I aim to inspire my clients to dream big, think creatively, and embrace the infinite possibilities that the future holds.
INVEST MONEY
PRODUCTS: The main categories of investment products are stocks, bonds, mutual funds, exchange-traded funds (EFTs), and insurance products like variable annuities. Unlike banking where deposits are guaranteed by federal deposit insurance, the value of stocks, bonds, and other securities fluctuates with market conditions. No one can guarantee that you’ll make money from your investments, and they may actually lose value. Before diving in, it’s important to do lots of research, know what risks you can handle, understand what you are buying, and turn to a trusted pro. Investor.gov
APPS: Investment apps can be convenient tools to make and to monitor investments. It’s important to be aware that some apps may “gamify” the investment process and nudge you to trade more than your comfort level. Stay true to your investment strategy.
ALTERNATIVES: Beyond traditional stocks and bonds, there are myriad assets that investors can amass, depending on someone’s goals, situation, and risk tolerance. If the idea piques your interest, begin by assessing what appeals to you and what seems doable. For example, while some may be ready to collect fine art, baseball cards may be more your speed. Collectibles like coins, stamps, toys, and records are popular. There’s also collecting fine art, wine, cars, real estate, land, and commodities like gold and precious metals, and digital assets, like cryptocurrencies and non-fungible tokens (NFTs).
COMMUNITY: Local Return is making it possible to invest directly into Rhode Island, generating both mission return (benefits for the state’s communities) and financial return (dividends for investors). Through diversified, locally managed, pooled investments, the Local Return Diversified Community Investment Fund (the first DCIF in the country) is increasing the power and decreasing the risk for every investor. LocalReturn.org
Graphic
MY HOME ENERGY ASSESSMENT
Unless you live in a newly constructed home, chances are good that you’re all too familiar with drafts of frosty air coming in through windows, doors, and crawl spaces, resulting in high energy bills all winter long. Perhaps you’ve sealed windows with plastic or placed a “snake” at the base of a door to remedy. If you’re a residential customer of Rhode Island Energy and live in a one- to four-unit home of which you have full access, a no-cost Home Energy Assessment could mean an end to these temporary fixes, and result in being more snug in your home. It all starts by self-scheduling an assessment online at RISEEngineering.com or by calling 800-422-5365. The next step is receiving an email with helpful information including a video, contact, and note that the process typically takes between one to two hours, depending on the home. I was told to keep doorways, stairways, and windows accessible for the energy specialist, which was the only required prep work.
Right on time, Luke Phaneuf arrived in a RISE vehicle. He was good natured and explained everything as he went
along with the confidence and clarity of a school teacher. I followed him from room to room as he examined spaces, often using equipment from his high-tech tool kit, like gas leak and carbon monoxide detectors. Within a day I received an email titled Weatherization Project with attached documents outlining the opportunities to make our 1950s Cape more energy efcient year-round.
A proposal included all of the weatherization improvements recommended by Phaneuf: a Home Energy Action Report, a Rhode Island Residential Gas Heating Rebate application, a 0 percent financing participation and enrollment form, and a list of Rhode Island Heating and Cooling Program participating contractors. The proposal states that Rhode Island Energy will cover 75 percent of the cost of the eligible insulation upgrades up to $10,000, and 100 percent of the air sealing measures. I was fascinated to learn that these programs are funded by the energy efciency charge on all customers’ gas and electric bills, in accordance with Rhode Island law.
All of this can be done once we take care of a “barrier” issue ourselves, so that tops our to-do list for 2025, and then let the insulating begin. Learn more at RIEnergy.com.
Sponsored by Alicia Cotter Reynolds, Sales Associate at Residential Properties, Ltd.
FEATURE
Inside Out
Local experts on methods for attaining personal balance in the year ahead
By Emily Olson
We’ve all experienced it – a racing heart from excitement or a churning stomach from nerves – those moments when emotions are made manifest. It’s these feelings that prompt many alternative health practitioners in Providence to embrace a holistic approach to wellness, dedicating their careers to helping clients achieve balance by aligning the three pillars of health: mind, body, and spirit.
Nikolai Blinow, a licensed mental health counselor and life coach, opened OMpowerment Psychotherapy to help people move through burnout and create more balance between their work life and time spent off the clock. As an adult diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), she has a particular interest in working with neurodivergent entrepreneurs and executives.
Nikolai Blinow
“Neurodivergent people are more vulnerable to burnout because we experience stress differently than others,” Blinow explains. “We’re prone to getting overstimulated.” She points to research showing that as many as 70 percent of CEOs could have adult ADHD because that neurodivergency makes them particularly talented at problem-solving and seeing the big picture – but they also have a hard time detaching. “We burn out because we’re passionate about our work and become hyperfocused,” Blinow says. “We dive in deep and then realize we forgot to eat lunch or do the laundry or do any of the other things essential to running a household.”
Although Blinow specializes in working with those with neurodivergencies, she theorizes that because our tech-heavy culture constantly bombards us with stimuli, our ability to focus has shifted, and as a result, even people who don’t have ADHD often present as if they did. This means anyone can benefit from her methods. Her first recommendation for those seeking improved mental wellness is to care for the physical body. “Drink water because if your brain is dehydrated, it can’t function properly,” she says. “Eat, exercise, and get enough sleep.” Blinow also recommends setting boundaries around the use of social media and technology. “Apps are designed to reinforce those parts of our brain that make us feel overstimulated, out of touch, and not grounded. They definitely impact brain function.” She continues that everyone can benefit from turning inward, too. “It’s so important to counteract the natural impulses of your brain. Mindfulness helps you be in control of your mind. It increases clarity and it decreases suffering. Mindfulness won’t solve your problems, but it will change your relationship with them.”
Kristin Kolesar Fabris is a Doctor of Chiropractic who runs the wellness collaborative Be Well Chiropractic + Health, and much like Blinow, she believes answers to problems may lie within. “People often look outward for solutions to their physical pain,” she says. “We encourage them to look inward and empower them to heal.”
Under the collaborative’s umbrella are a number of health practitioners who work together to help their clients find healing. In addition to chiropractic care, Be Well offers two types of energy healing – reiki and medical qigong – in addition to massage and craniosacral therapy, some
Photo (top) courtesy of OMpowerment, (bottom) courtesy of Be Well
of which is offered on an income-based scale. The collaborative also offers workshops and yoga classes in its group space. “Our mission is to hold pain with love. And there’s a lot of pain right now,” Kolesar Fabris says. “We form relationships and try to get to the root cause of our clients’ pain.”
Sometimes that root cause is physical, but sometimes it’s emotional or energetic. “We hold a lot of trauma in the body,” Kolesar Fabris explains. “All of the practitioners in our collaborative work together to heal it. For example, I’m a chiropractor, so my job is to get joints and spines
Chiropractic services are one element of Be Well’s offerings
to work properly. But if I’m working on someone’s SI joint and can’t get it to move, I might refer them to our craniosacral therapist or suggest meditation to help them clear a block. This is physical medicine, but it’s also energetic.”
For those looking for a more robust self-care practice in the new year, Kolesar Fabris offers a definition that goes beyond bubble baths and sheet masks. “True self care is getting really quiet with yourself and asking yourself what you need, what you desire, and what you can give. That’s what I give to my patients in my practice. We’re just trying to hold people and
provide a safe space where all are welcome.”
Much like at Be Well, inclusiveness is one of the key tenets of Full Radiance Yoga, which opened less than two years ago. Sara Davidson Flanders, founder and owner of the space, laments the stereotype of the yoga practitioner. “The media would have us believe you have to be young and thin with the ability to buy expensive workout clothes,” she says, “but the reality is that yoga is for anybody with a body – because we all benefit from breathing and moving, from connecting our breath, body, mind, and heart. Our nervous systems need that.”
Photos courtesy of Be Well
The team at Be Well Chiropractic + Health
RHODY RESOURCES
Be Well Chiropractic + Health 255 Hope Street, BeWellPro v idence.com
Full Radiance Yoga 112 Douglas Avenue, FullRadianceYoga.com
To ensure everyone feels welcome at Full Radiance Yoga, the studio is wheelchair accessible, teachers are well versed in modifying poses for different body types, and classes are offered on a sliding scale that starts at one dollar. “At certain times of my life, I couldn’t afford yoga,” says Davidson Flanders. “The stress of that meant those were the times when I needed yoga the most. This model works because the people who can pay the market rate for the class do, and that allows everybody to access yoga.”
The studio offers a range of classes, from those that focus on deep relaxation to those that are more challenging, but despite the different approaches,
there’s consistency in how they’re delivered. “Our teachers are dedicated to being welcoming and warm, acknowledging that the people who walk in our door have wisdom about their own body,” says Davidson Flanders. “We want our students to find the balance between building resilience and strength and creating openness and freedom in the body. All of our teachers cue students to listen to their body and search for inner consent.”
Practicing trust in their own wisdom is a skill that students can carry with them when they leave the studio. Davidson Flanders explains, “Whatever we do intentionally is more powerful than what we do unintentionally. If
we have a practice that inquires about what’s happening internally and we meet the answer with kindness and respect, that helps us be wise and compassionate off the mat.”
In addition to yoga, Full Radiance offers several different workshops on meditation, chanting, body alignment, and deep relaxation accompanied by live music that allows people to approach yoga or other devotional practices in the way that most speaks to them. This also ties into the studio’s commitment to inclusiveness. Davidson Flanders says, “We make anyone who is interested in yoga feel welcome, worthy, valued, capable, and powerful.”
Photo courtesy of Full Radiance Yoga
FOOD & DRINK
Cafe | Experience | In the Kitchen | Food News
Plant Yourself
Pawtucket cafe and plant shop invites lingering over lattes in a tropical oasis
By Cynthia Munrayos
Chris Aubin is a believer in the ubiquitous cafe experience – not just the hurried grab-and-go coffee stop, but designing a place for lingering. “Back in the late ‘90s and early 2000s, that was a big part of cafe culture, and it still exists, but those kinds of spaces are becoming less common in cities,” says Aubin. “A lot of coffee shops now are small, quick-stop places, and even though we’re small, we’re aiming to create a space where people want to stay.”
Pawtucket residents Chris and Amanda (Mandy) Aubin opened Seed Café & Espresso Bar during the summer of 2023 on the lower level of the Still on Main mini-mall in Pawtucket’s up-and-coming downtown. The vibey espresso bar and plant shop serves high-quality coffee, drinks, and homemade sandwiches, all amid lush greenery.
“It was all about how we could incorporate my love for coffee and Mandy’s fondness of plants and green thumb. The stars aligned where we felt we could make it happen,” says Aubin. “Pawtucket is a super cool city with a ton of history, and having lived here for 13 years, we wanted to stay where we were.”
FOOD & DRINK
Seed Café not only serves as a relaxed spot to work remotely with – barstools close to the espresso-brewing action and plenty of cozy tables – but also as a tropical oasis, with houseplants infusing the space with greenery. “With the plant shop, we wanted to create something that fit our space – small, yet integrated into the decor. The plants not only enhance the vibe of the space but are also for sale, so they’re constantly changing. The look is always evolving as different plants come and go,” says Aubin.
Inside the lush cafe and espresso bar
The espresso bar exclusively uses Borealis coffee, often showcasing unique African, Guatemalan, and Colombian blends. Winter specials include the Cinna-Freak Latte made with cinnamon bun syrup, maple, and toasted marshmallow syrup. Other espresso favorites include the London Smog Latte with Earl Grey and lavender syrups, and the Salty Sap Latte, made with maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt. For non-coffee drinkers, they also serve teas like matcha and chai.
Seed Café also whips up a variety of breakfast sandwiches, served on a bagel, multi-grain bread, or English muffin, to enjoy over a cuppa. Signature toasts include the Cheesy Toast, made with Narragansett Creamery ricotta, sliced tomatoes, a drizzle of balsamic, and fresh basil on a sourdough slice. The Millennial features fresh avocado mash, pickled red onions, microgreens, feta, EVOO, and everything seasoning. New to the menu is a hearty turkey sausage sammie known as The Wakeup.
On his cafe ownership journey, Aubin says, “It’s about finding people who want to come in and enjoy what you are offering. It’s not just about the drinks – guests are coming in for a vibe. We want to be a third space.” 250 Main Street, Suite 18, Pawtucket, @seedcaferi
There’s a new Hut in
Plant-Based Hero
An East Side deli lets vegan eaters go ham on classic sandwiches, minus the meat
By Abbie Lahmers
There’s nothing quite like taking shelter in a neighborhood deli on a cold, rainy day, and that first bite into an Italian grinder stacked with cold cuts, cheese, and crunchy lettuce. It’s a quintessential comfort food experience – and one I realized, upon visiting Providence Vegan Deli for the first time, I had never quite been able to replicate since becoming a vegetarian just over eight years ago.
I’m not alone in having this small yet poignant epiphany. Owner Rich Gaccione, who opened the plantbased deli this summer, told me other
Vegan sandwich and sides
Frank Italian Grinder
P hotos
by Abbie Lahmers
Must-Try Items
FRANK ITALIAN GRINDER ( $16 ) : Foot-long sandwich with house-made sweet ham, Italian-style seitan, pepperoni seitan, vegan smoked provolone, mayo, herbed oil and vinegar, mild banana peppers, lettuce, tomato, and red onion on a soft grinder roll
MACARONI SALAD ( $6 ) : Elbow pasta, mayo, red pepper, pickle, onion, celery, apple cider vinegar, and spices
Cuisine: Vegan sandwiches and sides Atmosphere: Friendly fast-casual deli
vegan and vegetarian eaters have expressed similar delight over finding a grinder that fits their diet. While enjoying a late lunch on a Thursday, other patrons filed through picking up to-go sandwiches (more than one praising the Day After Thanksgiving Leftovers special) and stocking up on a host of seitan products, which is where Gaccione found his footing in the plantbased food scene. His brand of packaged faux-meats, ranging from pepperoni sticks to corned beef slices, was formerly known as Born From Pain, and had become a farmers market staple over the years.
At the deli, which shares a home with legacy vegan business Like No Udder, the well-lit dining area boasts a rainbow mural, colorful chairs, and a case filled with seitan sticks, creamy pasta salads, and spreads. A menu is posted at the counter, along with rotating specials. Gaccione tackles the stereotype of plant-based being equated with small, dainty servings by assembling sizable foot-long sandwiches overflowing with fixings.
SUSHI
SNOW MUCH FUN!
The classic Frank Italian Grinder, which I had the pleasure of tucking into, is a great example of this. Plated on red-and-white checked paper in a plastic basket, this fan-favorite is filled with slices of house-made vegan pepperoni, sweet ham, and Italian seitan, cut thin enough to drape into meaty layers I was giddy to sink my teeth into. The faux deli meat is the closest to the real thing you’ll get in flavor and texture, as well as variety – the
three styles tasted distinct from each other and had their own roles to play to the overall medley of smokey vegan provolone, banana peppers, tomato, red onions, and shredded lettuce. The surprisingly creamy mayo substitute (also made in-house) tempered the light tang of the herbed oil and vinegar.
A side of macaroni salad offered a mild, satisfying counterpart with notes of dill and the occasional crunch of celery. It’s a picnic-ready
crowd-pleaser, as is the Buffalo Chicken Dip. Shredded soy protein adds a nice bite to the creamy house-made ranch and cheese mixture, garnished with green onions. The spread is thick enough to enjoy by the forkful cold, and also great warm (I heated up the leftovers at home with pita chips for dipping).
What feels like a niche veg-forward experience need not – these sandwiches and sides stand out on their own, not merely as
by
Buffalo “Chicken” Dip
Photos
Abbie Lahmers
Salads, sides, and more in the display case
vegan riffs on beloved deli staples. But for plant-based diners craving a tuna salad sandwich, reuben, sloppy joe, and other comfort sammies, the search ends at Providence Vegan Deli.
Providence Vegan Deli 783 Hope Street @providence_vegan_deli ProvidenceVeganDeli.com
Small State, Big Plate
FRIDAY FISH & CHIPS, ALL LOCATIONS
3 LOCATIONS!
615 Waterman Street East Providence • 479-4024 1525 Smith Street
• 854-7798
Monday-Sunday : 7am-2pm N. PVD: 7am-8pm (Fridays Only)
Engrained Technique
A chef channels his love for cooking into crafting artisan wood utensils from foraged trees
By Abbie Lahmers
When most artists speak of inspiration striking, the sentiment is usually rhetorical, but not for Juan Ferrer, whose pursuit of woodworking also came with a clap of thunder. “I was kind of thrown into this journey when lightning struck my backyard,” he says, telling the story of how the act of nature felled a 50-foot maple tree 10 years ago. An experienced chef, Ferrer had been working in kitchens since early high school and was well-versed in the world of fine dining – and wood utensils were his preferred tools of the trade. “I had this idea that I wanted to explore woodworking, but I was pressed for finances at the time.”
So when the serendipitous bolt of lightning granted him the resources, he had no choice but to buy a cheap chainsaw and start
breaking down the maple. “I was just sort of taking what I could get and slowly cutting it apart to make projects with it,” explains Ferrer. He honed his craft organically over time, growing his arsenal of tools and skills, and selling wooden spoons and cutting boards to friends and family.
By 2021, he was working in construction but found himself at a crossroads when he lost his job. The same week, Tim Kearns of the Pawtuxet Village Farmers Market reached out, inviting him to join as a vendor. “I didn’t know whether my product would be marketable,” Ferrer reflects, but he brought a box of spoons he’d carved over the past several years and set up his first market table. “The reaction from the public was so extraordinarily overwhelming in a positive way – I sold almost $1,000 worth of spoons in one day.”
TREE-T YOURSELF
Whether you’re a professional chef or foodie enthusiast, there’s Spoon & Board items perfect for your kitchen.
Serious Chef
A hand-carved spoon to suit your unique cooking style can’t be beat, along with a high-quality cutting board.
Casual Cook
Ferrer designs spatulas tailored to right- or left-handed cooks, perfect for sauteing or stir-frying. Handmade chopsticks are also essential for sushi lovers.
Dinner Party Host
Charcuterie boards, which come in unique shapes and styles, make beautiful statement pieces that can be hung on the wall when not using. Salad bowls are also both decorative and functional.
Baking Enthusiast
Ornate salt cellars and sugar boxes add panache to countertops, while bespoke rolling pins are a game changer. Throw in a honey dipper for good measure.
Finishing Touches
Any wooden kitchenware user will benefit from the gift of Ferrer’s own all-in-one Organic Board Butter, a finishing product he formulated to not only maintain Spoon & Board utensils but also restore heirloom and antique wood pieces.
Hand-carved spoons from Rhode Island trees
Spoon & Board has since taken off, with a mission of crafting chef-inspired utensils that last a lifetime. “I think it fills people with a sense of pride to work with high-quality tools,” he says. For Ferrer, the artistry of cooking carries over into woodworking. He describes wood as a “living and dynamic thing,” with different patterns of grain and porosity levels. “You have to learn how the grain reacts over the course of the curing and drying process, and as a chef, you can use that to your advantage. Certain trees and cuts
behave in many ways like different cuts of beef.”
And customers benefit from his expertise when it comes to crafting pieces with different culinary utilities in mind, whether selecting spoons best suited to stewing, saucing, or sauteing, or with shapes that conform to cookware they already have. He fashions rolling pins that range from heavy bodied to light, French tapered or flat. “Each customer has an intuitive experience when exploring my kitchen wares,” notes Ferrer. No two items are exactly alike.
Now the market manager of the Pawtucket Farmers Market, Ferrer also sells his goods at the market, along with the Tiverton Farmers Market. Find Spoon & Board products at Seymour Foods in Providence, Fenwick & Oliver in Bristol, and online. SpoonAndBoard.square.site
Another key element to Spoon & Board’s mission is a commitment to only using foraged wood from Rhode Island, which he often happens upon as fortuitously as the lightning maple. “I don’t cut trees down – that’s another big part of my ethos,” he shares. “Nine times out of 10 times, the trees find me.” Mother Nature knocks them down, market goers or other connections alert Ferrer to them, and he gives them a second life. Most notably, when the Lincoln School in Providence had to bid farewell to their beloved
One-of-a-kind honey dippers
Juan Ferrer of Spoon & Board at a market
Photos courtesy of Spoon & Board
200-year-old copper beech – which had sadly succumbed to beech blight – Ferrer was enlisted to harvest the East Side landmark. He crafted over 200 items to be gifted to school donors.
In his Pawtucket apartment that doubles as a woodshop, Ferrer has built “a library of species” over the years. He estimates he has about 1,000 pieces of wood that he’s managing at one time, from drying and curing to milling and carving. He seals the foraged sections with paraffin wax emulsion to slow down the drying process, a step
that will later prevent the wood from cracking under tension, which is just the beginning of the deep level of reverence he brings to the process.
Ferrer describes the labor-intensive craft as a sort of catharsis, to wait upwards of two years for the wood to dry and then gradually shape it into an object that will become a part of someone else’s culinary ritual. “Cooking, to me, is about forming good relationships, whether it’s your family or friends, and being a part of that is extraordinarily humbling.”
Stylish cheese board
Chopsticks
Food News: Destination Federal Hill
From Latin desserts to Italian fast-casual, new eateries open on and around Atwells Avenue
By Abbie Lahmers
Young business owner Valentina De La Cerda first started working at Helado Taiyaki as a teenager – it was her first job and she fell in love with the ice cream shop’s concept of combining Latin and Japanese influences to make the one-of-a-kind ice cream (helado) in a cute fish-shaped cake (taiyaki). “I’m Guatemalan, so I really love being able to showcase
and introduce others to Hispanic culture,” begins De La Cerda. Saddened by the news that the previous owners were moving to Miami, she and her parents decided they would keep it open, with a new name: Taiyaki Cafecito.
The shop still offers ice cream desserts, scratch-made cube croissants, and espresso drinks, and De La Cerda developed a new
delicacy, Crostadas, which combine a Hispanic tostada and a buttery croissant, an ideal base for avocado toast or huevos rancheros. “I’ve always loved exploring new cafes, either here in Rhode Island or anywhere I get to travel to, so being able to have my very own coffee shop is a dream come true.” 102 Dean Street, @cafecito_pvd
New life for an ice cream favorite
P hoto courtesy of Taiyaki Cafecito
A from-scratch bakery in Peace Dale opened a second location in Providence, and so far, reports owner Lilibeth Rodriguez, they’ve been fitting right into the neighborhood. “We have had a very warm welcome from the community,” she says. “I hear multiple times a day how Federal Hill was missing Latin options with great food, drinks, and desserts.” Cakelicious Bakery and Cafe specializes in Colombian and Dominican fusion cuisine, with both sweet and hearty options available.
“Our hot food bar is a star attraction,” relays Rodriguez, describing a host of rotating
rice dishes, fall-off-the-bone braised meats, sweet plantains, and chicharrón. On the dessert menu, guests rave about their tres leches cake and decadent flans. Any of their offerings pair nicely with a selection of refreshing, natural juices, including tamarind and fresh-squeezed lemonades. “I really want Cakelicious to be more than just a place to eat,” Rodriguez continues. “It’s a place to get away from the fast-paced scene, to relax, eat well, and enjoy a good talk with your friends or loved ones.” 292 Atwells Avenue, Facebook: Cakelicious Bakery & Café
Across the street from where his grandfather George Cardono once sold vegetables by pushcart as a child, today Sean David McBride has his own restaurant, Pasta Bar GEODONO. “I envision the Pasta Bar becoming a new Federal Hill staple with its own niche of Italian food. Most of the legendary Italian destinations on the Hill provide excellent full-service experiences,” says McBride. “We are offering a slightly more casual concept with a made-to-order experience that sets us apart.”
The concept, adapted from Cardono’s tradition of “Pasta Nites,” is a fast-casual
open-kitchen for Italian food, in which guests customize their pasta by choosing from eight different sauces, four kinds of seafood, four meats, and eight veggie options. Additional small plates, or “Italian tapas,” stem from a Gourmet Club his grandfather created. “When it was Papa’s turn to host, he would put together a seven-course meal of traditional Italian dishes,” shares McBride. “Federal Hill has a long, storied history for Italian Americans. Papa played a part in that and made sure that our family knew the important history.”
262 Atwells Avenue, @pastabargeo
Latin sweets and warm meals on Atwells
Pasta bar concept expands and innovates an Italian legacy
PIC OF PVD
Snowy days ahead in the city
ABOUT DAVID @runofthemillshop
David Lawlor is an avid filmmaker and documentarian who lives in Providence, with an interest in telling the stories of places undergoing transformation and historic mill buildings.
