Providence Monthly April 2024

Christine Dupuis 401.626.1945

Josh Cullion 401.862.8381

Lisa Pagano 401.447.9505

100 Fountain Street, #5B Josh Cullion

$749,000 401.862.8381

47B Hartford Pike Christine Dupuis

401.626.1945

13 Belmont Drive Josh Cullion

100 Exchange Street, #802 Josh Cullion $599,000 401.862.8381

43 Normandy Drive Lisa Pagano $399,900 401.447.9505

1000 Providence Place, #209 Benjamin Scungio $402,000 401.413.5753

News & Culture

11 International conference brings printmakers to PVD

14 OP-ED: Behind the Washington Bridge failure, AKA Bridgegate

16 INFLUENCER: Meet a radio host with something to say 20 NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS: Hyper local news and contact listings

24 CALENDAR: This month’s must-do’s

Home & Style

A15 HOME: A master bath in Tiverton gets a coastal renovation

A20 The benefits of potting benches and perennials

A22 STYLE: An East Side interior designer on making spaces balanced

A24 ENTERTAINING: Blooms and books set the stage for hosting a luncheon

A26 RHODY GEM: A plant shop grows in the West End

A28 HOMEBUYER’S GUIDE: Things to know before buying or selling

Feature

59 Whether performed or read, poetry can be found in every corner of the city

Food & Drink

69 Elevated dessert event returns to Downtown

72

74

77

78

Cover Story: Fresh Ideas

Local design inspiration and resources for home and garden

Photo by Andrea Pietrangeli, HEYDT HOME

Photo by Carli Alves

Photo courtesy of LitArts RI

Photo by JWessel Photography, courtesy of Gracie’s

rhapsody in blue.

Photo by Joseph Keller Photography, prop styling by Caroline Woodward, interior designer Corey Low

SPRING INTO LOVE

Call Debra 401-289-0900

Complimentary consultation

Debra personally interviews and screens her clients

Handcrafted matches

JOIN MY MATCHMAKING DATABASE AT GETREADYTODATE.COM

Debra L’Heureux, Rhode Island’s top Matchmaker for Get Ready To Date has been in the business of helping people find love for over 20 years!

A Note From

The

General Manager

Dear Readers,

In January, we reintroduced our company as Hey Rhody Media Co. This name change reflects our growth, and makes our brand more cohesive. We publish four free awardwinning monthly magazines – Pro v idence Monthly , So Rhode Island , The Bay , and Hey Rhody – and pride ourselves on showcasing the people and places that make Rhode Island so special through a local lens. As it turns out, much of our audience didn’t realize the four magazines were under one umbrella, so we now brand each magazine cover with Hey Rhody Presents.

At Hey Rhody Media Co. (formerly Providence Media) our small size enables us to be nimble and adapt to all of the changes the last few years have brought. Rising costs for businesses and individuals have affected all of us and continue to necessitate change. Rather than viewing these obstacles as hardships, we have chosen to use them as opportunities to revisit our processes to see what could be improved. This led us to launching a shared section across our magazines, which affords us the space to channel our time and effort to developing a single robust cover story and Life & Style section, rather than splitting our labor

between many. Additionally, the Rhody Gem page joins the shared section, encouraging readers to venture around the state, but for those who prefer their gems close to home, the space formerly used for online and newsletter highlights is now dedicated to a business within each magazine’s coverage area, sourced via #rhodygem. Hop on Instagram and tag your favorite Rhody Gem in a post so we can shine a light on them as well.

To all our valued readers, we thank you for your incredible support. We are a locally owned small business. We love making magazines about our community, and we look forward to sharing with our readership the exciting changes to come with this next chapter for our company.

Spring forward!

General Manager & Creative Director Nick DelGiudice

Chris

Carli

Photo courtesy of Cafe Italia

The next move is yours .

If you are thinking of buying or selling this spring, reach out to the East Side’s leading real estate advisory to learn more about how we can help you strategically navigate the ever-changing real estate market. Just like in chess, every move counts. We can help you make a winning play.

401.864.8286

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Rachael Dotson

Outside of Stock Culinary Goods in Hope Village, my favorite place to

Arts | Op-Ed | Influencer | Neighborhood News | Calendar

Pressing Matters

An international conference comes to Providence to celebrate printing and promote libraries

By Ruthie Wood

The Creative Capital lives up to its name this month as the Southern Graphics Council International (SGCI) – an educational nonprofit organization connecting artists of original prints, drawings, books, and handmade paper – hosts their annual conference at the Rhode Island Convention Center, bringing together over 1,000 artists. Held April 3-6, the portfolios of SGCI artists will be displayed – including two Rhode Island natives: Dan Wood, founder of DWRI Letterpress, and print artist Allison Bianco – along with demonstrations, panels, and tours.

The crown jewel of the conference will be a talk by SCGI Printmakers Lifetime Achievement Award winner Amos Paul Kennedy, Jr., an artist known for social and political commentary, particularly in his printed posters, and a citywide exhibition of his art throughout April at various locations, including Providence Public Library (PPL), the branches of the Community Libraries of Providence, the Dirt Palace, and street-facing windows in Olneyville Square. “I consider myself more of a letterpress printer, which is more commercial,” says Kennedy, whose work aligns with the overarching theme of the conference, Verified by Proof. The line is taken from Beatrice Warde’s 1932 poem, “This is a Printing Office,” that remarks on the resilience of messages in print and the social and sacred duty of printmakers.

Image courtesy of HarperCollins Publishers

For his poster work, Kennedy employs a process called layering, printing colorful words over other words to use as a background, until finishing the piece with big, bold, black aphorisms on top. He calls his style of work “bad printing,” but he’s not being self-effacing – there are many practitioners of this particular technique, which one can find using #schoolofbadprinting on social media pages. “The way I came to layering,” Kennedy explains, “was I had a job, and at that time I had no money, and I was going to just put a big word in the background and put the text on top of it – which is what normally happens – but I misspelled the big word.” Out of paper, he simply did the next logical step: “I just printed over it until you couldn’t see the mistake, and then I put the big text on black.”

To complement the conference, Detroit-based Kennedy will collaborate with the local libraries on posters with political statements about the state of affairs of the United States’ public libraries. Posters will be placed in the stacks, across multiple floors and rooms, and even in the windows or outside of the buildings. “The installation of the many parts is what becomes the art. Whoever installs [my posters] actually makes the art. I just supply the pieces,” he says. “The library is the last public common we have. At the public library, you don’t need a card, you don’t need to pay a fee to get into it. You walk in, and you have complete access to anything that any other citizen has access to. […] There are forces in this civilization that are attempting to destroy the public library because of what it is: this communal resource available to everybody.” Learn more at Pro vLib.org, SGCInternational.org, and @kennedyprints

Photo (L) by Jay Ruzicka, courtesy of PPL, (R) by Ann Madden, courtesy of Amos Paul Kennedy, Jr.

Amos Kennedy Jr.

“Acorn” press in the Updike Room, third floor at PPL

Op-Ed: The Story of Bridgegate

A perfect storm of poor decisions leading to the Washington Bridge crisis

By Barry Fain and Steve Triedman

IWe all remember the day the alert went out about the Washington Bridge’s critical failures, but before getting into the structure’s future, first a little backstory.

House Speaker Joe Shekarchi was former Governor Gina Raimondo’s campaign manager when she ran for treasurer. As treasurer-elect, she needed a strong union connection and he brought Armand Sabitoni into her orbit. As treasurer, Raimondo successfully passed dramatic pension reform legislation that put her on Fortune magazine’s list of the world’s 50 greatest leaders – and left many retirees fearful for their futures.

Raimondo then sought out the governorship and managed to win a close three-way primary in part because of labor splitting their vote. The RI Building and Construction Trade Council (RIBCTC) and unions representing different types of building and construction workers were the only labor groups who backed her. Shekarchi co-chaired her transition team, which notably included Michael Sabitoni, president of the RIBCTC and business manager of the RI Laborers District Council.

Michael Lewis had been the director of the RI Department of Transportation (RIDOT) since 2008. Early in the Raimondo administration, a job was posted that he knew nothing about: “To assume the responsibility for the overall administration of the department in the absence of the director…” Reading the tea leaves, Lewis resigned, enabling the administration to put their man Peter Alviti, former Cranston Director of Public Works who was the program director for the New England Laborers Health and Safety Fund, in place as head of the state’s transportation department with an annual budget now over $600 million. By any perspective, it was a major coup for organized labor.

Raimondo then rolled out RhodeWorks, a $5.4 billion 10-year plan to repair the structurally deficient roads and bridges in RI and create 6,000 new jobs. A major piece of the annual funding ($70 million) was to come from tolls on heavy commercial trucks. Despite being warned that there was a serious legal question

about this method, the administration ordered and installed toll gantries as fast as they could.

A judge eventually ruled the gantries were illegal and forced the state to stop collecting. About $110 million came in, but with legal fees, refunds, and possibly other damages, the hit to the state could be monstrous. A final appeal is coming up this year and taxpayers have already spent $10 million for the state’s defense.

In 2021, Raimondo became Secretary of Commerce and Dan McKee became governor. McKee’s connection to the Sabitonis and the laborers is very strong and Alviti’s job has never been in question.

But we’re getting ahead of ourselves. Let’s back up to 2019, when the state applied for federal funds for “critical repairs to the Washington Bridge.” Alviti wrote that the bridge was “nearing a permanent state of disrepair. The existing bridge structure and the current on- and off-ramps are decaying and must be addressed immediately.” A contract was awarded, but the Federal Highway Administration, which controls the federal money, refused to accept the state’s selected contractor. Naturally, a lawsuit followed which wouldn’t be resolved for almost two years and result in a new bidding process.

In 2021, a new contract for the Washington Bridge for $78 million was awarded coincidentally with the same contractor that was building the new Henderson Bridge & Expressway and the 6/10 connector.

A July 2023 RIDOT inspection report on the Washington Bridge was frightening, but the new Henderson Bridge, with its own design and traffic flow flaws – which were known and unilaterally ignored by RIDOT throughout the process – wasn’t quite completed.

The failures that caused the closure of the westbound lane of the Washington Bridge apparently didn’t occur or weren’t noticed until two and a half months later, which was, coincidentally, right after the Henderson Bridge was completed. By the way… we don’t believe in coincidences.

It was a traffic nightmare for the ages. Once the eastbound lane was reconfigured to two-way

traffic, things have improved, but delays still range from 15-45 minutes. The bridge will likely have to be replaced. The latest plan, which numerous traffic officers have described as “psychotic,” will see the road expanded to three lanes on either side by narrowing the lanes.

But the crippling effect on businesses and Providence and East Providence roads will also affect the economy, with many of Providence’s best restaurants seeing 20-30 percent less business, which will likely have an effect on revenue collection by the state as well as employment numbers.

And no one has been fired. RIDOT means job security, we guess.

Op-eds express the authors’ opinions and do not necessarily reflect the views of Hey Rhody Media Co. Readers are welcome to send responses or letters to the editor to be considered for print publication in a future issue or posted online. Letters can be emailed to Abbie@heyrhody.com P hoto by

Jenna Kaplan

Traffic on the Washington Bridge

Meet Ashley Tribble

The Pawtucket-based

podcast

producer,

comedian, and radio

host has solid advice for creating the life you want

By Shaliyah Dixon

You have many things going on, including writing a screenplay. Tell us about that.

I’m working on my first feature, Mascot , a story about a young woman running from her old life who becomes a mascot for a semi-professional basketball team. It’s a quirky comedy about queer love and friendship. I’ve been working on it for a few years and I’m hoping to get it made one day.

Any go-to places to share?

I love LitArts RI. It is a co-working space in Providence for writers and podcasters and the atmosphere is so warm, welcoming, and encouraging. I’ve only lived in Rhode Island since June, and LitArts has been such a support for me here.

How did being a stand-up comedian enter the picture?

When I was living in Chicago, I had started podcasting and hosting live events. I’ve always been “the funny friend” and I would write funny bits on Facebook at the time. Chicago has an amazing and supportive arts community that I had gotten more involved with over the years, and one day a friend who had been curating and hosting a variety show for years asked me if I wanted to perform at the show. At that point I never did stand-up before, but I had always been a super fan of stand-up and wanted to do more performing, so I said yes. After that, I kept getting booked for shows and I started to actually work on the craft. I took classes at the legendary Second City and at Lincoln Lodge in Chicago. I found a few mentors and the rest is history.

You continue to build an impressive list of credentials. Any advice for someone on how to get started?

I have a tattoo on my arm of a catfish in a catsuit. This is because I truly believe that you have to see yourself as who you want to be, not just who you currently are, if you want to achieve something great. I started to call myself a podcast producer before I ever worked in the industry. I called myself a comedian before I ever performed on stage. Of course, I still worked on my craft, studied, and put effort into the things I wanted to do. But I think the best thing you can do for yourself is be absolutely delusional and envision who you want to be. Catfish yourself.

Photo by Qurissy, courtesy of Ashley Tribble

First observed in RI in 2020, Beech Leaf Disease (BLD) is set to make its mark in spectacular fashion again this year, decimating beech forests and landscape trees throughout the state. BLD affects the leaves of the tree and is thought to be spread by or directly caused by nematodes that are active inside buds prior to bud break. Early signs include dark striping on the leaves, which will then wither and yellow, leading to leaf-loss. Over time, this can send the tree into decline and potentially be fatal.

“There is a lot that we do not know about BLD yet – as far as we can see, it impacts all varieties of beech regardless of age or size,” explains Tom Morra, owner of T.F. MORRA TREE CARE, INC. “We are monitoring the spread and progression of the disease closely, and are working with our product developers on treatment options to combat the damage.” Treatment season begins in the spring, so now is the time to come up with a plant health care plan for your landscape using the options available at T.F. Morra.

T.F. Morra also offers low-impact, ecologically sound treatment options for a variety of other plant health care issues, including but not limited to Hemlock Wooly Adelgid, Emerald Ash Borer, mosquitoes and ticks, and fungal pathogens, as well as fine pruning, tree preservation, and, if necessary, removal services. Please contact Stephanie via email at stephanie@tfmorra.com to set up your consultation today.

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

Join the Summit Neighborhood Association board

Whether you’re new to the Summit neighborhood and looking to meet people and get more involved in the community or a long-time resident with a great idea for improving the area, the Summit Neighborhood Association (SNA) is seeking new board members like you. Neighbors with passion projects in mind that they would like support bringing to life, as well as those looking to connect with others to work on grassroots projects, are encouraged to apply. Joining the board is a great way to get to know the community while volunteering on projects like food pantry deliveries, tree planting, street improvements, park development, supporting the Rochambeau Library outdoor classroom, and so much more.

The SNA’s Annual Meeting will be held on Monday, April 29, at a location to be determined. SNA will hold elections for board officers and members, and would love to have interested neighbors join. For those looking to help out in other ways, consider joining the volunteer email list for notices about opportunities including assisting the Mount Hope Community Center and Your Neighborhood Food Pantry, and others, as they arise. Contact SNAPro v @gmail.com for more information.

Spring tree care and summer concerts return in the Mile of History

A day encouraging individuals and organizations to plant and care for the trees around them, Arbor Day is Friday, April 26. In the Mile of History, the Perennial Planters manage the Mary Elizabeth Sharpe Park on Benefit Street, and they’re sponsoring a lecture by renowned tree expert Doug Tallamy on May 9 at the Hope Club at 5:30pm. The event is free and open to the public. With summer around the corner, also keep an eye out for an announcement about the 2024 Music in the Garden concert series at Shakespeare’s Head Garden, sponsored by Mile of History Association (MoHA) in collaboration with the Providence Preservation Society. Look for more information online at MileOfHistory.org.

Fox Point neighbors enjoyed light festival, anticipate its return

At the February meeting of the Fox Point Neighborhood Association, neighbors heard from Nora Barré, executive director of the Downtown Providence Park Network (DPPN), about Lumina, the winter light festival presented by the DPPN and the Providence Tourism Council that took place from mid-January through late February downtown. Inspired by wintertime cultural programs in NYC and Montreal, the festival included a light exhibit called Prismatica and a lineup of community-oriented activities during the bleakest winter months. The idea, Barré said, was to “bring people out of their homes,” inspire a sense of community spirit among residents and visitors, and “increase the feeling of safety in downtown parks.” The Prismatica exhibit, a colorful light installation set up in the 195 District Park, consisted of 25 large glass prisms that lined the waterfront, emitted soft chimes, and rotated when pushed by passersby.

“The response has been fantastic,” Barré said about visitor feedback. Lumina will likely be repeated in 2025, she suggested, with a theme of environmental stewardship.

Join neighbors for an Earth Day cleanup downtown

The Downtown Neighborhood Association and local businesses come together on Friday, April 19, to help beautify Providence. The DNA’s first project of 2024 will be the annual Earth Day Clean-Up, once again teaming up with the City of Providence, Providence Parks Department, The Partnership P3, Downtown Providence Parks Network, and the Downtown Improvement District to remove trash and natural debris throughout downtown and along waterways. Interested volunteers can arrive anytime between 9am and 5:30pm, and stay as long as they wish. Trash and planting crews are open to all ages, and offer a wonderful opportunity to collect community service hours. The DNA encourages local high school and college students, as well as faculty and staff, to join and represent their school for some fun competition. Check-in is located at The Landing PVD Café at 101 Dyer Street (above Capriccio restaurant). Volunteers can RSVP or learn more by emailing DNAPvd@gmail.com or calling DNA president Kristin McGinn at 401-580-2628.

Photo courtesy of Downtown Neighborhood Association

Neighbors pitching in to clean up downtown for Earth Day

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

Meeting Date: April 8

Amy Mendillo

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.

OLNEYVILLE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION

Yuselly Mendoza, Program Coordinator 122 Manton Avenue, Box 8 Providence, RI 02909

Yuselly@ona-providence.org

Facebook: Olneyville Library

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

SUMMIT NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION

Meeting Date: April 29

P.O. Box 41092

Providence, RI 02940

401-400-0986

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

The Downtown Neighborhood Association invites volunteers to help beautify the city

Photo courtesy of Downtown Neighborhood Association

...is

T e Must List

10 essential events this month

April 16: Join Hey Rhody Media Co. at Narragansett Brewery and celebrate Who to Watch , our annual gathering that honors leading members of our community featured in the January 2024 issue of Pro v idence Monthly Pro v idenceOnline.com

Through April 7: Don’t miss South Korean playwright Hansol Jung’s Wolf Play , the story of an online adoption process gone sideways that uses puppetry, boxing, and clever dialogue to tell a powerful tale of trust, love, and identity. TheWilburyGroup.org

April 5: Chill out with acoustic sounds from Nashville-based Americana singersongwriter Gabe Lee who will be in town for a show at Askew with support from award-winning Providence-based singer Allison Rose. AskewPro v .com

April 4-7: The RI Home Show returns to the Rhode Island Convention Center for its 74th edition and celebrates by adding the House of Brew, a new experience in partnership with the Rhode Island Brewers Guild. RIBAHomeShow.com

April 6-7: The Bloom Flower & Home Market hosts 85+ vendors with indoor and outdoor plants, home decor, apothecary products, jewelry, pop-ups JA Patty and Dips Dips, and botanical-inspired cocktails at the WaterFire Arts Center. BloomFlowerAndHome.com

April 7 – August 11: Get up close with Dragons & Mythical Creatures when folklore meets reality at Roger Williams Park Zoo, where 60 life-size animatronic creatures, from mermaids to unicorns, will reside among the real life animal exhibits. RWPZoo.org

April 13: Discover the sounds of the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra at The VETS for the TACO Classical Concert , a program featuring Beethoven, Mahler, and Carlos Simon, with guest conductor Benjamin Manis and pianist Orli Shaham. RIPhil.org

April 23-28: The smash musical comedy Company , a five-time Tony award-winning story about the challenges of single life, originally brought to the stage by Stephen Sondheim, plays the Providence Performing Arts Center. PPACRI.org

April 26-28: RINGLING: The Greatest Show on Earth returns to the Amica Mutual Pavilion with a brand new 21st-century circus. Ringling no longer uses animal performers or clowns – it’s all acrobatics and family-friendly fun! AmicaMutualPavilion.com

April 28: The Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame honors three of the state’s most successful jazz artists, 2024 inductees Harry Allen, Shawnn Monteiro, and Daryl Sherman in an afternoon ceremony and concert at The Met. Pawtucket, RhodeIslandMusicHallOfFame.com

Photo by Nick DelGiudice

COTTAGE GOALS

a wakefield tiny home feels twice its size thanks to streamlined updates

BY ANDREA E. MCHUGH

Photo by Andrea Pietrangeli, HEYDT HOME

good vibes goods

Four independently owned stores for unique home accents:

A GRACIOUS SOUL Cranston & East Greenwich

BALI BUNGALOW Providence

CHRISTINA’S LTD. Westerly

WALD & SEA Newport

Less is more,” is how the saying goes, but when Ara and Pamela Millette purchased a 285-square-foot cottage just steps from the sea at Mary Carpenter’s Beach Meadow in Wakefield, the mother-daughter duo were ready to test the bounds of exactly how much “more” they could get out of their tiny new home.

The Millettes turned to Bernadette Heydt, an interior designer and owner of HEYDT HOME, a Newport-based interior design firm with a distinct focus on creating, remodeling, and furnishing both residential and commercial spaces – especially compact ones. “Our design ethos revolves around the transformative power of minimalism, where less becomes more, and functionality seamlessly blends with style,” explains Heydt, who works alongside her husband, master carpenter Andrea Pietrangeli. Where one might have seen a tiny, tired, two-bedroom home with nothing but limitations, Heydt saw a petite (pink!) palace with possibilities.

Tasked by her clients to turn the space into a modern, fully functional family home, Heydt was mindful of making every inch count while also making the home ADA-compliant to ensure accessibility and comfort. “Every element within the interior serves a distinct purpose, ensuring that the space feels open, efficient, and welcoming,” explains Heydt. She started by raising the ceilings and adding exposed beams overhead, then installed light-hued wide plank pine wood floors throughout. True to her design firm’s signature style,

big ideas

Even if a 285-square-foot cottage isn’t for you, there are still take-aways applicable to any sized home. Here are ideas to get started and resources around the state to help make them happen. • By

LET IT GO

Turning the task of decluttering into a game could be just the ticket! In the Minimalist Rulebook: 16 Rules for Living with Less , Joshua Fields Millburn puts fun spins on chores, like finding someone to be your purge buddy; hosting a photo scanning party; and sorting things into piles of essentials, non-essentials, and junk. Similarly, the 90/90 rule prompts this key question: have you or will you use something in 90 days? If the answer is no and it’s in decent condition, consider donating it to a worthy organization. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rhode Island has a list of clean, odorless items they’ll accept posted to BigSRI.org; they even offer curbside pickup statewide, and a tax receipt. Another route is to sell gently used things at a consignment shop or ecommerce website (to possibly fund Refresh a Room!).

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rhode Island, Pro v idence

The Creative Reuse Center of RI, East Pro v idence

South County Habitat ReStore, Charlestown

GET ORGANIZED

Once you’ve decided what brings you joy, having a professional organizer create storage solutions can be a worthwhile expense. Beyond closets, consultants can help make sense of everything, from pantry items, to medicine cabinets, to the nightmares that are garages and basements. Many offer free in-home consultations, too.

Closettec, Inc., North Smithfield

Inspired Closets, East Greenwich

NEAT Method, Pro v idence

Elyse Major

REFRESH A ROOM

After a cold winter, there’s no better mood booster than something new and colorful in a room, whether it’s a plant or a custom accent like fabric Roman shades or a reupholstered chair. Try out DIY skills by painting a piece of unfinished furniture (Knock on Wood) to match your new scheme.

All About Redecorating, Newport

Cottage Chic Decor, Wakefield

East Coast Designs, East Greenwich

Fabric Gallery, North Kingstown

Jessica Hagen Fine Art, Newport

Knock on Wood Furniture RI, Smithfield

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

If you’re ready for larger scale modification, Little Rhody is rich with talent and businesses to help you make changes, whether it’s new cabinetry, a door, or a wall coming down.

Arnold Lumber, Bristol & Wakefield

Cole Cabinet Co. Inc., Cranston

Design by Keri, Co v entry

Douglas Lumber, Smithfield

Dzyna Signature Kitchen & Bath, Portsmouth

DiStefano Brothers Construction, Wakefield

East Coast Designs, East Greenwich

Fagan Door, Co v entry

McCormick Home Improvement, Warwick

Michelle Lee Designs, Johnston

SPRING CLEANING

Distinctive features include vaulted beam ceilings, a Dutch entry door, porcelain slab kitchen countertops, and properly scaled/storage furnishings that create a spacious feel

The Nest, Pro v idence (for closets)

Organized Abode, Westerly

Why not treat yourself to a fresh start by hiring a residential cleaning service?

Level Up Cleaning Services, Cranston

Photo by Andrea Pietrangeli, HEYDT HOME

A crisp white has the remarkable ability to visually expand any room while also acting as a blank canvas, allowing other design elements to take center stage

the interior is characterized by clean lines, a neutral color palette, and rich textures. To maintain a sense of spaciousness and clutter-free environment, Heydt carefully chose furniture with storage capabilities to complement the overall decor.

Rattan dining chairs, bamboo window treatments, a handmade bamboo dining pendant light, and vintage family photographs (many taken at waterside locales) collectively evoke a sense of seaside charm and simple luxury. “The synergy between minimalistic

The fully equipped kitchen features an LED-illuminated coffee bar and custom drying rack shelves. Mantra cabinets are from Riverhead Building Supply in Middletown.

Photos by Andrea Pietrangeli, HEYDT HOME

simplicity and coastal chicness results in an interior that is not only visually captivating, but also highly functional,” explains Heydt. “It embodies the idea that less can be more, demonstrating that a thoughtfully curated blend of design elements can transform a compact space into a coastal oasis of both style and comfort.”

In a calculated move, the living space extends to the exterior, merging indoor and outdoor living. A unique railing bar with a trio of stools provides an idyllic spot for cocktails on

try this at home

• OPT FOR FURNITURE WITH STORAGE

• USE GRAVEL TO ZONE OUTDOOR AREAS

• REPLACE HARDWARE, EVEN FAUCETS

• LIGHTEN WITH BAMBOO SHADES

• NAME YOUR ABODE AND POST IT

Photos by Andrea Pietrangeli, HEYDT HOME

ABOVE: Storage beds and pendant lighting over nightstands saves surface space

LEFT: The bamboo dining pendant light was an Etsy find.

the porch, while a white marble gravel patio accommodates a dining lounge that invites both quiet mornings in the salty air and decompressing at sunset.

From the outset, the home’s existing outdoor shower and wrap-around porch captured Heydt’s attention. ”Our redesign involved relocating the porch’s entry to the front of the building, providing a more inviting approach,” she says. The shower was meticulously sanded, then refreshed with white paint, gold hardware, and a handy shelf for amenities, giving it a crisp, modern vibe. “These changes not only preserved the charm of the original features but also added a touch of contemporary elegance to the overall design.”

Of the project, Bernadette Heydt says, “it’s a testament to our commitment to innovative design in tiny homes.”

Photos by Andrea Pietrangeli, HEYDT HOME

The name “Sea La Vie” both captures the homeowners’ coastal surroundings while also paying tribute to their French-Canadian heritage

Get Rhody Style

Ideas and resources for making the most of living in the Ocean State.

All Natural

Heydt suggests incorporating native plants, like seagrass, into your landscaping to create a natural, coastal look. “It not only adds to the Ocean State vibe, but also supports local biodiversity,” she says. Consider swapping traditional mulch for beach sand. “It acts as a moisture barrier for your plants, and adds a nod to the coastal environment.”

Shop Small

Heydt believes local, mom-and-pop hardware stores, like Newport Hardware, are gems. “It’s one of the oldest hardware stores in town. What sets it apart is not just its longevity, but also the personal touch you experience when you walk in,” she explains. Best of all, she adds, it provides everything you’d expect from a big box store but with a charming, local touch. “It’s a small business with a big heart, making it one of our favorite spots in town.”

True Colors

The Color House, a paint and design retailer with five locations in Rhode Island, specializes in finding the perfect shade of paint every time. “If you have a specific color in mind that isn’t readily available in their shop, they’ll go the extra mile to make it happen,” says Heydt. “A great example of this personalized service was when Pamela Millette had a silk blouse in the perfect pastel pink shade. We took that blouse to The Color House in Middletown and their expert team skillfully matched it for the exterior color of the cottage.”

Finally, the home was dubbed “Sea La Vie,” (meaning “sea life” in French). “In Rhode Island, giving your home a name is a cherished tradition that adds a unique touch to your living space,” says Heydt. “This tradition allows homeowners to infuse character and personality into their homes, making them feel like a true part of the Rhode Island community.”

Photos by Andrea Pietrangeli, HEYDT HOME

Thank You!

PRESENTED BY Bryant University

The 27th annual Women’s Summit continued the tradition of empowering, supporting, and encouraging women to excel professionally, personally, and financially. Thank you to our esteemed speakers and all who attended for your participation and perspective. A SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR LOYAL AND VALUED SPONSORS

Platinum Sponsor: Amica Insurance

Diamond Sponsors: Bank of America, Fidelity Investments

Gold Sponsor: PwC

Silver Sponsors: BankRI, Blue Cross Blue Shield Rhode Island, Brown Medicine, CVS Health, FM Global, IGT, Jordan’s Furniture, Navigant Credit Union, New England Construction, Robinson+Cole, TIAA, TJX

Bronze Sponsors: AAA Northeast, AIPSO, BankNewport, Beacon Mutual Insurance, Centreville Bank, Dassault Systemes, EY, Gilbane Building Company, Hope Global, JF Moran, Meeting Street, Milton CAT, Providence College, Target, Teknor Apex, Toyota, Washington Trust

Media Sponsors: Hey Rhody Media Co., Providence Business News, Providence Journal, Rhode Island Monthly, Rhode Island PBS

LISA LESLIE Most recognized player of the WNBA and

Olympic gold medalist.

SUSAN PACKARD Co-founder and former chief operating officer of HGTV. Author, mentor, and keynote speaker.

MERIDITH WEBSTER Executive vice president of global communications and public affairs at the Estée Lauder companies.

Vanity Fair

How a Tiverton master bathroom went from sterile to stunning

By Elyse Major

About 12 years ago, Brendalee and Michael O’Hara decided to downsize from their large home with acreage in south Tiverton to a nearby 55+ community. “Once the last child graduated high school, we began looking for something a little smaller,” says Brendalee. Originally Michael was not big on his wife’s plan of moving into a condominium, but everything from the unexpected tranquility to the water views on that first visit quickly won him over. “We love it,” says Brendalee. “One-level living to age in place with no yard to take care of nor outside maintenance to tend to!”

One thing that wasn’t so perfect was the master bathroom: an oversized space outfitted in beige that leaned toward looking institutional. Who better to infuse a bit of color and warmth than Johnston-based interior designer Michelle Lee Parenteau?

Photos

Parenteau’s first impression was that the bathroom looked sterile. “Their shower was 36 by 36 inches and they had a huge built-in jacuzzi tub taking up a lot of space,” she says. “My clients really wanted a free-standing soaker tub and a makeup area.” To accommodate the wish list, Parenteau completely demoed the room to reconfigure the area in a more useful way; she was also sure to infuse touches that connected with the coastal location and her clients’ adoration of the seaside and color blue.

With a blank slate, Parenteau brought in the freestanding tub, along with a large shower with

a built-in bench. For the makeup area, an elegant wraparound vanity was installed with a matching linen cabinet. Parenteau painted wide “nickel gap” shiplapped walls a bright cobalt blue, and for flooring, selected wood plank tile in a natural tone to keep things user-friendly. Accents like mango wood-wrapped frames on the mirrors over each sink and a wood drum light fixture above the tub serve to soften hard lines and add texture. “Every bathroom needs a little bling, so a round crystal LED mirror, which reflects the water view, was hung at the makeup area,” says Parenteau with a smile.

“EVERY BATHROOM NEEDS A LITTLE BLING.”

–Michelle Parenteau

Photos by Grace Lentini, courtesy of Michelle Lee Designs

Celebrating 30 years serving RI Homeowners

“McCormick Home Improvement has a great team and a unique business model that provides a sense of familiarity with a work ethic that is beyond comparison. This has been a first class interaction with first class professionals.”

“When Chris showed up for the initial meeting…BAM…we knew we had the right talent, skills, personality, and goal-oriented professionals to work with us. Thank you so much for a fantastic job from start to finish.”

Coventry

“They always kept us informed about scheduling, what we could expect, guiding us through decisions and were very considerate of our time and property.”

South Kingstown

Cumberland

“Carrying the blue of the gorgeous Sakonnet River and Mount Hope Bay into our home has been a dream come true!” says Brendalee. “I grew up in a Victorian-style home and that influence from my mom, coupled with my love of traditional style and desire for a beachy retreat, is incorporated throughout our home. The view makes me smile every single morning when I open my eyes.”

Photos by Grace Lentini, courtesy of Michelle Lee Designs

Get Rhody Style

Ideas and resources for making the most of living in the Ocean State.

Location Cues

“Hues of blues, artifacts purchased from local artists like wall decor and beachy tchotchkes, our Munroe Milk Cooler on the front step and the biggest giveaway that we live in Rhode Island,” says Brendalee. “Open my fridge and there is always ‘cawfee’ milk from Munroe Dairy.”

Tiverton Love

“We love our locally owned restaurants. The Red Dory, Evelyn’s Drive-In, The Boat House, Sakonnet River Grill, and The Black Goose are our favorites. We love The Cheese Wheel Village Market and Groundswell at Tiverton Four Corners where Gray’s Ice Cream is along with other local shops and a great antique store. Coastal Roasters is not only a great coffee shop, but the spot and the view are worth the price of admission.”

Rhody Resources

Parenteau has a solid rep for using local talent. Here are some vendors used for this project: EastCoast Countertops; Jason Thomas Construction, LLC; Lighting & Design by J&K Electric; Lubrano Electric; Rhode Island Tile; San Bento Painting; Supply New England; and Towne Glass and Aluminum. “I strive to use the best quality of materials. I listen to my client’s needs and wants and try to bring that vision to life.” Learn more at MichelleLeeDesigns.com

At Your Service

By Carli Alves

GFrom gardening to outdoor entertaining, South County DIY-er shares the benefits of a potting bench rowing up, my mom’s love for gardening was contagious. It wasn’t just about enhancing our home’s exterior or boosting our curb appeal; it was a form of therapy that brought her joy. Seeing how much happiness it brought her, I knew there was something special about getting your hands in the soil and connecting with the earth. As I’ve matured and taken on the responsibility of tending to my own gardens, this activity has evolved into one of my most cherished pastimes. The decision to invest in a potting bench a few years ago felt like a natural progression, a symbolic step towards true adulting, and a continuation of the legacy passed down by my mother.

Having a potting bench isn’t just about convenience; it’s about creating a dedicated space for nurturing plants (while also avoiding back pain from kneeling and bending). It also provides much-needed storage, and when cleaned up well, it can double as a serving station when entertaining. My garden bench has now become an essential part of my gardening routine, making the whole experience even more enjoyable for me.

When choosing a potting bench, it’s important to consider two things: size and material. Go for weather-resistant types like cedar, teak, or pine, as they can handle whatever Mother Nature throws at them. Also, make sure the piece is big enough to handle all your gardening supplies without feeling cramped – bonus points if it coordinates well with your home’s exterior.

Gardening isn’t just a hobby for me; it’s a way to connect with nature and find resilience in the process. As Audrey Hepburn said, “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow” – it’s about hope and optimism for what’s to come.

TRY DIY

Take a second look at an old hutch or dresser – with a few coats of exterior paint and the addition of hooks, it could be transformed into a potting station.

START SMALL

Keeping a garden manageable will ensure a more fulfilling experience. Opt for lowmaintenance varieties like perennials, herbs, and tomatoes – they’re beginner-friendly and can boost your confidence as you dive into the world of gardening.

SPRING SCHEDULE

In April, I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and start clearing out the remnants of winter, cleaning up the garden beds, and keeping an eye out for new growth. It’s the perfect time to divide and transplant perennials, and also to add a fresh layer of mulch for moisture retention. In May, plant those warm-season veggies and annual flowers, adding splashes of color and excitement to the landscape. Also trim back the spring-flowering shrubs and tidy up any spent blooms.

Carli Alves

Blue

Broadview Florist & Garden Center , Westerly

Clark Farms , Wakefield

Cottage & Garden , Newport

The Farmer’s Daughter , Wakefield

Grandin Farms , Wakefield

The Groden Greenhouse , Providence

Homegrown , Pawtucket

Peckham’s

Quonnie

Revive

Wildwood

House Rules

A Providence-based interior designer shares what led to choices in three different rooms

By Corey Low

IInterior design is not just about creating a beautiful room; it’s about creating an experience for all five senses that work together to produce a desired feeling for all who enter. No matter the room or style, these classic design principles serve as a guide to achieve the experience you’re seeking.

Corey Low lives on the East Side with her family. Learn more at CoreyLowInteriors.com

SHAPE: A round mirror breaks up the geometry around it. The dresser is a rectangle, as is the door to the left (and right) of it. The round shape of the mirror disrupts all the straight lines, and its tailored silhouette and dark wood lining keep it feeling masculine.

HARDWARE: For kitchen metals, stick to two finishes or less. If you are looking for budget-friendly options, polished nickel is a timeless choice that looks great at any price point. Brass must be selected carefully, as many economical options lack a sense of elegance.

COLOR: The first decision made in this living room was the paint color; typically when designing a room, you want to start with the walls and work your way inwards. I selected Farrow & Ball’s Parma Gray because it has a significant amount of gray in it, tying it to the nearby white marble fireplace with gray veining, and giving it depth.

EMPHASIS: This is established by outlining a focal point for the room, somewhere your eye is immediately drawn to upon entry. In a bedroom, it’s usually a bed; in an office, it’s the desk; and in the living room, the fireplace. The focal point should lift both your eyes and your countenance. For example, if your eye is naturally drawn to the bed when you walk into a bedroom, a nice canopy bed frame or mirror above the headboard would help to draw your eyes up and make the room feel larger.

BALANCE: If you were to cut your room in half, there should be just as much visual weight on one side as the other. This can be achieved via symmetry, or without it. For example, you may have a living room seating arrangement with a sofa and a chair on either side of it. The two chairs provide symmetry and the living room feels balanced. In another, asymmetrical setting, you could have a coffee table on one side of a sofa, and two chairs on the other. The layout is not symmetrical, but the furniture on both sides of the coffee table feels even.

PROPORTION AND SCALE: This principle focuses on the size of an element in relation to the space as a whole. If you put a king bed in an 8’x10’ room, it will overwhelm the space. Furniture, accessories, and rugs should all be appropriately sized relative to one another and the overall environment. One quick and easy rule of thumb is the 2:3 ratio. If you’re looking to hang artwork above a sofa, a mirror above an entry table, or a TV above a mantle, they should all be about two-thirds the width of the item they’re mounted above.

HARMONY: This is a fancy way of saying that things need to go together. It can be applied to many things, but color is the most important and applicable element. The most harmonious color combinations come from complementary colors, or those on opposite sides of the color wheel, and tonal colors, or tones of the same hue.

CONTRAST: Where harmony asks that parts of a room are intentionally alike, contrast demands that other things decidedly stand against each other. This can come from color (black and white) or textures (such as a smooth, shiny glass coffee table topped with a woven wood tray). Rooms that lack contrast will feel one-dimensional and flat.

Photos by Joseph Keller Photography, prop styling by Caroline Woodward, interior designer Corey Low Interiors

Floral Support

Give your bookish friends a reason to leave their homes with an afternoon luncheon

By Elyse Major Photography and styling by Kayla Aucoin

While April showers bring May flowers, the tulips are already here! Whether you pick your own at floral sensation Wicked Tulips Flower Farm or purchase a pot at your favorite independent garden shop, spring blooms are the perfect theme for hosting a gathering with friends. In New

Enjoy discussions about lifestyle books. Why should novels have all the fun?

England, a snowflake could still appear on the weather app, but it’s safe to swap plaid accents for jaunty prints, and heavy tablecloths with wicker. If you need an excuse to host a get-together, April brings both Earth Day and World Book Day, so have pretty reads at the ready for flipping through for hive mind chats. Best of all, sunset isn’t until after 7pm so your soiree can linger on!

COLOR PALETTE

Using the primary colors as a springboard, powder blue, mustard yellow, and pink make a delightful trio. Accents in white – like the Porto Boutique ceramic vase –give eyes a place to rest, and natural fibers keep things from getting fussy.

DRESS IN LAYERS

The tablescape begins with a bright cotton runner down the center, topped with a handmade cutting board to corral vessels of flowers and a candle. Round wicker chargers form a tactile base for a white melamine plate, and yellow stoneware dinner plate (The Lino); fabric napkins placed between tie all of the colors together.

LEAF THROUGH

Have a short stack of books available for guests to peruse. For flower books, visit Wild Season Florals in Middletown, owned by Jill Rizzo, who has authored Branches & Blooms , The Flower Recipe Book , and The Little Flower Recipe Book . Shown is The Art of the Board: Fun & Fancy Snack Boards, Recipes & Ideas for Entertaining All Year by Olivia Carney, available at Fenwick & Oliver. Consider using seed packets as bookmarks or place cards. For additional botanical accents, The Farmer’s Daughter in Wakefield is back from its winter nap.

Photography by Kayla Aucoin, courtesy of AUCOIN

Thea’s Plant Store

We’re on the hunt for Rhody Gems! Every neighborhood has that secret, hidden, cool and unusual, or hole-in-the-wall spot that locals love. Email or tag us on social media using #RhodyGem to suggest yours, and we might just feature it!

What it is:

An indoor plant boutique stocking greenery and artisan pots for all styles.

Where to find it:

Thea’s is located inside an olive green Victorian on Broadway, just across the street from Seven Stars Bakery. On weekend days when the shop is open, look for the leaning sign that says “plants & more” near the entrance overhang.

What makes it a Rhody Gem?

“We are a one-of-a-kind houseplant store, and technically the one and only in Providence,” says Anastasia Karatza, who opened Thea’s in May of 2023. “Most plant stores are a standard storefront, a greenhouse or a mill. We are inside of a Victorian house built in the mid-1800s.”

From cacti, succulents, and carnivorous venus fly traps to tropical beauties and hanging plants, there is a new “friend” available for everyone. Plant enthusiasts will also find trendy vessels (disco ball hanging planter, anyone?), along with pottery and art made by local creatives, and those new to plants can have their worries assuaged by class oferings like Houseplants 101 and staf happy to answer questions.

“We are so enthusiastic about plants and love helping our customers with them, whether they are experts or beginners,” says Karatza. Pro-tip: don’t leave your new greenery in its nursery pot – transfer to a new container with drainage when you get home!

Thea’s

358 Broadway

TheasPVD.com, @theaspvd

Photo courtesy of Thea’s

Homebuyer’s Guide

A handy resource for taking steps to buying a house in Rhode Island

By the Editors

Those home and garden network shows featuring couples scoping out potential homes are entertaining, but in real life, the process can be complicated, confusing, and filled with highs and lows. With any major life decision, the more homework (pun intended) you do, the better prepared you will be. In this guide, you’ll find everything from terms explained to advice and a few homework assignments.

CREDIT CHECK: Get to know your credit rating. Higher scores represent a better credit history and make borrowers eligible for lower interest. You’ll want to learn what your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio is, which is a tool lenders use to decide how much you can borrow. Different loan products and lenders have different DTI limits. To calculate yours, add all of your monthly debt payments (car payment, credit cards, etc.) and then divide them by your gross monthly income (generally the amount you have earned before your taxes and other deductions are taken out). If your DTI doesn’t look great after you run the numbers, set goals for paying down debt and re-check the ratio monthly to measure your progress.

SAVE MONEY: With your credit looking good, it’s time to think about a down payment, which is the amount you pay toward the home upfront. You put a percentage of the home’s value down and borrow the rest through your mortgage loan. Generally, the larger the down payment you make, the lower the interest rate you will receive and the more likely you are to be approved for a loan. Low- or no-down payment options may be available to you. There are special programs for veterans and service members, rural residents, some types of first-time homebuyers, and others. Individual lenders may also offer their own low- or no-down payment options. Low-down payment options usually come at increased cost. When you meet with lenders, ask questions and ask to see multiple choices.

EXAMINE SPENDING: Take a close look at what you spend your money on. Meals out and streaming services add up fast. Consider starting a monthly budget or using a spending tracker app.

CHECK FOR UNCLAIMED MONEY: Each year, the Office of the General Treasurer recovers unclaimed cash and assets from businesses, banks, landlords, safe deposit boxes, and utility companies, all kept safe until it can be returned to its rightful owner. More than 300,000 Rhode Islanders have property waiting to be returned to them, and many don’t even realize it until they search the database. See if money is waiting for you at FindRIMoney.com

VOCABULARY LIST

A glossary of terms that will help in the homebuying process:

5/1 Adjustable Rate Mortgage: Or a 5-year ARM is a mortgage loan where “5” is the number of years your initial interest rate will stay fixed. The “1” represents how often your interest rate will adjust after the initial five-year period ends. The most common fixed periods are 3, 5, 7, and 10 years and “1” is the most common adjustment period. It’s important to carefully read the contract and ask questions if you’re considering an ARM.

Adjustable rate: Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) offer less predictability but may be cheaper in the short term. If you opt for an ARM, keep an eagle-eye on the Federal Reserve Bank. When they hike interest rates, your floating rate goes up, too.

APR: The annual percentage rate is a wider measure of the cost of borrowing money than the interest rate; it reflects the interest rate, any points, mortgage broker fees, and other charges that you pay to get the loan. For that reason, your APR is usually higher than your interest rate.

Buyer’s agent: Assists and represents their clients through every step of the homebuying process, including finding the right home, negotiating an offer, recommending other professionals (e.g., mortgage brokers, real estate attorneys, settlement companies), and troubleshooting problems (e.g., home inspection or appraisal issues).

Conventional loan: Any mortgage loan that is not insured or guaranteed by the government (such as under Federal Housing Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, or Department of Agriculture loan programs).

Escrow: An account set up by your mortgage lender to pay certain property-related expenses, like property taxes and homeowner’s insurance. A portion of your monthly payment goes into the account. If your mortgage doesn’t have an escrow account, you pay the property-related expenses directly.

Fixed rate: Your interest rate and monthly principal and interest payment will stay the same, but your total monthly payment can still change – for example, your property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, or mortgage insurance might go up or down.

Interest-only: Interest-only (I-O mortgage) plans allow you to pay only the interest on the loan for a specified period. This means a lower monthly price gets you started. Once the I-O period ends, your monthly cost could rise significantly, since you are now paying principal and interest.

Listing: A property that is for sale.

Listing agent: A real estate agent who represents a home seller and helps clients who are selling with a wide range of tasks, including pricing their home, recommending home improvements or staging, marketing their home, holding open houses, coordinating showings with home buyers, negotiating with buyers, and overseeing the home inspection process and closing procedures.

Long term: Lower monthly payment but you’ll pay more in interest.

MLS: Acronym for multiple listing service – a digital database of current real estate listings operated by a group of agents or brokers.

Principal: The total amount borrowed in a mortgage.

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): An additional cost required if you don’t put 20 percent down to protect the lender should the borrower go into default.

Real estate agent: Someone with a professional license to help people buy, sell, or rent all sorts of housing and real estate.

Realtor: A licensed agent with the ability to use that widely respected title, an agent needs to be a member of the National Association of Realtors®.

Real estate broker: Someone who has taken education beyond the agent level as required by state laws and passed a broker’s license exam.

Rental agent: Helps consumers find properties to rent.

Short sale: A property sold for less than the amount owed on the mortgage.

Short term: Higher monthly payment but you’ll pay less over time in interest.

Source: ConsumerFinance.go v

HOME WORK

LIST PROS AND CONS

Homeownership can be rewarding and a good way to build wealth, but there are risks and responsibilities associated with owning property. When you rent, your landlord is responsible for the property and takes on the risks. When you buy, you take on risks and responsibilities. Some cons to consider: Your home value could decline, and you could lose equity or even owe more than your home is worth. If something important breaks, expensive repairs are your responsibility.

DO THE MATH

Like any purchase, you must figure out how much you can afford. Take an honest look at your income, monthly expenses, and credit rating. Be realistic, too – you don’t want to get into a situation where you are “house poor,” which is when you buy a house above your means. In other words, after you pay all of your bills, you still want to order a pizza on a Friday night. Make sure there’s some cash reserves, too, so that if after a month your roof leaks or the dishwasher breaks, you’re okay.

HOMEWORK: ASK QUESTIONS

Ask lenders about any special programs, like RIHousing’s 10kDPA program, which provides a $10,000 down payment assistance loan to eligible homebuyers in Rhode Island.

HOMEWORK: RESEARCH LOCATIONS

Many factors go into deciding where to live. Do you want city-living with cafes within walking distance? Maybe something by the water? Or it could be based solely on how school systems rank. This is why going down various real estate website rabbit holes can help. RILiving.com, for example, offers neighborhood reports, tax rates, and helpful stats about cities and towns, even the monthly median temperature (especially handy if you live in Westerly and wonder about the weather in Foster Glocester). Don’t forget to visit at various times. A quiet neighborhood by day may turn into a party palace once night falls. Consider checking in with local law enforcement to ask about the area.

GET ORGANIZED

Be prepared by assembling a loan application packet; this way you’ll be ahead of the game when it’s time to gather your personal and financial info.

• Pay stub for the last 30 days

• W-2 forms, last two years

• Signed federal tax return, last two years

• Documentation of any other sources of income

• Bank statements, two most recent

• Documentation of the source of your down payment: investment or savings account statements showing at least two months’ history of ownership. If some of the funds were a gift, get a signed statement from the giver stating that the funds were a gift.

• Documentation of name change, if recent

• Proof of your identity (typically a drivers’ license or non-driver ID)

• Social security number

• Certificate of housing counseling or home buyer education, if you have one

Hey Rhody

Sharing Stanzas

Wordsmiths of all ages find spaces for poetry in and around Providence

By Emily Olson

When asked to describe the Providence poetry scene, outgoing poet laureate Tina Cane, who has held her post for seven years, says, “Which one?”

“There are several small scenes,” she continues. “There’s the more academic arts program scene. There’s the AS220 youth poet slam scene. There are working poets doing their thing. There are bookstores and libraries that host poetry readings. There are venues hosting poetry throughout the state and they all have different audiences and different styles of delivering poetry.”

Jodie Vinson, program director at LitArts RI, the literary hub for local writers formerly known as What Cheer Writers Club, echoes this sentiment. “Local artists can get siloed in groups,” she says. “They find their niche and stay in it. Part of what we want to do is elevate local events, whether we’re hosting them or not, so that people can connect and find their community, and ultimately, their audience.”

Photo courtesy of LitArts RI

Both women agree that the literary art form is thriving in Providence. Cane says, “For its size, Rhode Island has been home to a large number of great poets.” And one of Cane’s missions throughout her tenure as poet laureate was finding them. “What I’ve come to realize is that there are more young people interested in poetry than you’d imagine. It isn’t necessarily slam poetry” – a lively style of spoken word performed for an audience – “but it’s kids writing poetry in their bedrooms. And that’s often how people grow up to be poets.”

In an attempt to encourage those young wordsmiths to let their work see the light of day, Cane started a youth ambassador program, which is particularly important to her because she’s spent much of her career teaching poetry in schools. Every year, she chooses two youth ambassadors to help spread the written art form across the state through school visits, workshops, and public readings. On March 1, she held a celebration at The State House Library announcing Wheeler School students Seoyon Kim, a junior, as the Youth Poetry Ambassador and Jacquelyn Song, a senior, as the Deputy Youth Poetry Ambassador. “I’m trying to create opportunities and pathways for youth poets,” she says.

In addition to getting involved in staged public readings, both ambassadors will work

Whether you’re just beginning your creative writing journey or are a seasoned wordsmith, LitArts RI, which celebrated its fifth year anniversary in late 2023, is a coworking space and resource for creators of the written, spoken, and illustrated word. Learn how you can become a member or sign up for workshops and events to connect with the community by visiting online at LitArtsRI.org, or stop by their Valley neighborhood hub at 400 Harris Avenue, Unit E.

Photo (top) by Cormac Crump, courtesy of Tina Cane; (bottom) courtesy of LitArts RI

LITARTS RI

A publishing panel at LitArts RI

Outgoing poet laureate Tina Cane

Downtown Providence is Yo Town r

Meet Lisa

As an interior decorator and owner of Homestyle, a wonderful and whimsical boutique on Westminster Street, Lisa has an eye for the original. If you’re looking for a memorable gift for someone special or just fresh inspiration for your own office, Lisa’s style makes Downtown visitors feel right at home.

Plan your Providence visit today at: DowntownPVD.com

with other local poets in Cane’s Poetry in Motion RI program, which she brought to the state six years ago, inspired by a similar program in New York. “Every month, I choose lines of poetry and combine them with beautifully designed custom graphics,” she explains. “These public displays appear on the digital screens on RIPTA buses, and it’s another very accessible way to disseminate poetry throughout the state.”

LitArts RI is also doing its part to disseminate various forms of writing through a

new collaboration with its neighbor Riffraff Bookstore and Bar, which recently changed ownership, with Ottavia De Luca and Lucas Mann now carrying on the shop’s local legacy. Their first co-hosted event took place in January and according to Vinson, the event was standing-room only. “People were peering through the bookshelves to see the poets on stage,” Vinson says. The second iteration was just as popular. “In February, we let people start signing up for reader slots at 6pm and they were filled by 6:05,” she says.

OPEN MIC EVENTS

Listen to others or share your own verses at recurring poetry events happening nearby. Check online for updates before visiting and guidelines for signing up to read.

PAWTUCKET POETRY

Tuesdays, 285 Columbus Avenue, Pawtucket, PawtucketPoetry.com

PAWTUCKET POETRY SWAP MEET

Second and fourth Wednesdays, 1075 S Broadway, East Providence, Facebook: SWAP Meet

PROVIDENCE POETRY SLAM

First and third Thursdays, 115 Empire Street, ProvSlam.org

RIFFRAFF OPEN MIC NIGHT

Monthly, 60 Valley Street, RiffraffPVD.com

TELL YOUR TRUTH

Monthly events at rotating venues, TellYourTruthRI.com

Poetry open-mic at Riffraff Bookstore and Bar

Photo courtesy of LitArts RI

Ramiro Encizo Sales Associate

“ We want to buy a bigger home, but we need to sell our current home, what are our options?”

“

What should I do now if I want to sell and move my family by the end of the school year?”

“ We tried buying a home last year and the competition was too much, should we try again this year or wait for the market to cool down?”

“

I see all of the houses online and they look so perfect, my house is a mess and it’s difcult to keep organized with kids. Can I sell my house the way it is?”

“

“

My house needs some repairs, I am afraid that if I put it on the market, I won’t get top dollar for it. How can I maximize my return on the sale without spending money upfront?”

My parents are older and need to downsize, they have over 40 years of junk around the house, how can we get their home ready for market?”

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TAKE AND LEAVE POEMS

If the elocutionary arts aren’t for you, there’s other ways to share poems in Providence, including the Art & Poe-tree cabinet found on Hope Street – a shareable art exhibit encouraging passersby to write a poem or sketch a piece of micro-art to leave behind and pick up words that speak to them. You never know what you might find – or be inspired to jot down! @artandpoetree

Vinson owes the event’s popularity, in part, to the desire among poets to share their work and be among community. “I think all creative endeavors can be lonely and in the literary market, it can be hard to find a listening audience. The more local venues we can provide, the stronger the community around that genre will be,” she says, and explains that the open mic is open to anyone, no matter their level of experience. “Try it out,” Vinson encourages. “It’s a safe environment and you’re going to feel supported.”

Eight years ago, Lori Kirkland found a supportive environment at RI. She experienced

her first open mic night and was inspired to create her own. “I wanted to be exposed to people who appreciate words,” Kirkland says. She started Pawtucket Poetry in January 2020, quickly pivoted to pandemic-demanded virtual open mics, and then returned to in-person events when restrictions were lifted. Her group still meets every Tuesday night.

“We don’t have a big crowd,” she says. “It’s just friends getting together and sharing poetry.” Like Cane and Vinson, Kirkland recognizes how broad the poetry scene is in and around Providence. “I always thought of poetry as such a secret thing, but poetry exists

Pawtucket Poetry’s intimate venue space

Photo courtesy of Pawtucket Poetry

POET IN YOUR POCKET DAY

Along with this month being National Poetry Month, April 18 is #PocketPoem day. Learn how to participate at Poets.org.

401.440.7483

jroch@residentialproperties.com

in all spaces. It doesn’t have to be in a space like mine. There’s a space for everybody, and each one has a different purpose.”

Kirkland describes her venue as small and intimate – a place to test out new material among a supportive group of fellow poets. “People come here to share what they don’t want to share on stage. Or they share to prepare for a larger stage,” Kirkland says. “Poets understand poetry. That’s the beauty of the group. And if they show up and want to do poetry, I’m here for it.”

At Pawtucket Poetry, there are no time

limits, no rules, and, most importantly, no judgment. “Whoever feels inspired to read can,” she says, emphasizing that non-poets are welcome to sit and listen. “But what I’ve learned is that most people who come to listen usually have something on their phone that they’re working on.”

Cane is inspired by open mic venues like Kirkland’s. “There’s a bit of everything in Providence and it’s right under the surface,” she says. “There are all these little threads running through the city and if you pull one, it can lead to something surprising.”

Photo courtesy of Pawtucket Poetry

Anyone can take the mic at a Pawtucket Poetry gathering

Have you dreamed of starting a

FOOD & DRINK

Tasting Series | Experience | In the Kitchen | Food Trends

Dessert Never Tasted So Sucrée

A downtown staple for elevated gastronomic experiences celebrates 25 years with special events

By Jenny C. Shand

If patience makes the heart grow fonder, then it’s time for dessert lovers to swoon: Gracie’s is hosting their dessert and cocktail pairing event, known as Sucrèe (meaning “sweet” in French), for the first time since the pandemic in 2020. This dessert-focused dining series is perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth, and on April 21, three local guest chefs will each prepare a dessert course to be paired with a specialty cocktail or mocktail. The evening’s theme will be “Whimsical Spring,” which will serve as a touchstone for both the decor and the pastry chefs as they create their magic. Guests are also encouraged to dress to match the theme. The event will benefit a nonprofit organization that is near to the Gracie’s team’s heart, Providence-based ReFocus, which supports and enriches the lives of adults with different physical and developmental needs.

Photo by JWessel Photography, courtesy of Gracie’s

In addition to Sucrèe, Gracie’s will be continuing their new monthly series, Journey Through the Vines. On the third Thursday of every month, guests walk through five wine tastings, complete with paired light bites, as they engage with a particular topic in a casual and open conversation. “It’s for everybody, not just people who know about wine,” says Courtney Lampman, Gracie’s venture marketing and community leader. April’s topic centers on Santa Barbara, California, and the discussion will be led by Gracie’s hospitality and wine leader, Justin Bothur. “Santa Barbara is an up-and-coming

region that’s lesser known in California but is coming out with some really interesting wines,” Lampman explains. Future Journeys include May’s Nueva Espana, highlighting wine producers in Spain, followed by a deep dive into rosé in June.

Whether you’ve been a faithful regular since their New Year’s Eve debut in 1998, or this is your first foray into enhancing and educating your palate with the freshest ingredients and flavors, April is the month to let your taste buds lead you to Gracie’s. Reserve tickets early by visiting GraciesPro v .com/happenings.

SWEET PAIRINGS THROUGH THE YEARS

Sucrée debuted on February 13, 2017 as the fulfilled dream of their former executive pastry chef Melissa Denmark, who wanted a multi-course dessert event to highlight the talent of local pastry chefs and focus on the sweeter side of life. In years past, guest chefs have included Lori Kettelle of PVDonuts, Jennifer Luxmoore of Sin Bakery, and others. Each dessert course reflects the season and the theme, from fruit-forward tarts and bubbly for summer to a Halloween-themed burnt cinnamon cake with brown rice pudding, pumpkin panna cotta, and sour honey ice cream. Guests are in for a sweet surprise for this year’s Whimsical Spring!

Photos by JWessel Photography, courtesy of Gracie’s

From a summer picnic-themed event: Lustau manzanilla and amontillado sherry, lemon, honey, and egg white

A Valentine’s cocktail from a past Sucrèe

Made with Love

Mexican dishes served with heart and style at EP location of popular eatery

By Kou Tukala Nyan

When I took my seat at Francesca’s on Broadway, I didn’t realize it would be an evening of firsts for me. Along with tasting some new-to-me authentic Mexican dishes, owner Edgar Barillas walked my friend and me through each entree, from preparation to pronunciation.

We visited Barillas’ second location, which is in East Providence – the original opened over six years ago in Pawtucket, where customers were so satisfied with the breakfast and lunch spot they encouraged him to expand. Francesca’s on Broadway offers dinner options, too.

Chatting with Barillas, I learned that the namesake behind the establishments is his mother, who he describes as a phenomenal cook whom people would often ask to cater their events. “This inspired me to name my restaurants after her, to honor her hard work and dedication to her family,” said Barillas. “I also want to thank my wife and kids for their support throughout our journey, which is very important to me.”

With the guidance of our server, Jennifer Ramos, my friend and I got to taste firsthand what makes Francesca’s so special. We started with a first bite typical of many Mexican restaurants – chips and salsa – but this tangy salsa with lingering heat, along with fresh, lightly salted house-made guacamole, was just the beginning of great flavors to come.

My friend is a Horchata fan, so she was glad to see this traditional creamy cinnamon drink on the menu. She raved about its sweetness and slight spice, comparing the taste to rice pudding. I found the Passion Fruit Mojito delightful and refreshing with its cool, minty notes, tart lime, and hints of passionfruit.

Next was dinner. Our entrees arrived in large portions, plated beautifully on rustic dishes. My friend enjoyed the Q uesa Birria, three tacos containing tender stew beef topped with gooey cheese, accompanied by a beef stockbased consomé for dipping the tacos, which was pleasingly rich and aromatic. My Carne Asada featured a delicious, savory grilled

at Francesca’s on Broadway

Angus flap steak, served with spiced Mexican rice, well-seasoned refried beans, and a simple but yummy salad of crunchy iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and ranch dressing.

We were surprised we still had room for dessert, but my friend insisted we get the Homemade Flan. It was my first time trying the dessert, and I found the creamy vanilla custard topped with caramel to be divine. It was also my first time trying churros, and I was particularly delighted by the presentation of the hot cinnamon sugar sticks stacked in a neat tower, resembling a little campfire. This came topped with vanilla ice cream, the

Must-Try Items

CARNE ASADA ( $22 ) Grilled jalapeño, grilled Angus flap steak, refried beans, rice, salad, tortillas, and guacamole

Q UESA BIRRIA ( $20 ) Melted cheese, onions, fresh cilantro, and shredded steak in three crunchy tacos served with rice, refried beans, and beef consomé

Cuisine: Mexican American Atmosphere: Fun and welcoming all-day eatery

perfect accent to the churros’ crunchy outer layer and soft, fluffy interior with yet another surprise – a strawberry center.

If you’re searching for authentic Mexican food for any meal of the day and an experience that dazzles all the senses, look no further than Francesca’s.

Francesca’s

East Providence:

525 N Broadway • 401-854-1558

Pawtucket:

526 Pawtucket Avenue • 401-724-9900

FrancescasOnPawtucket.com

Dinner

Spicy Mango Cocktail

P hotos courtesy of Francesca’s

Paradise Found

A speakeasy-style bar’s new permanent chef brings a taste of the tropics to the West Side

By Ann Martini

From the moment you pull up to the Courtland Club, tucked into a quiet residential street on the West Side, you suspect this might be unlike just about any other bar experience you’ve had in Rhode Island – or maybe even anywhere. It’s as nondescript as a building can be: all wooden shingles with small, rectangular windows that you can’t see into and a heavy gray door with a keypad. There’s no sign, just a “51” above the door. New visitors might think,“this can’t possibly be it.”

Nothing about the Courtland Club is as you’d expect it – not the exposed brick walls that cradle old pizza ovens (back in the 1920s, this was a Crugnale Bakery of pizza strip fame) and act as a canvas for the projections of black-and-white photos, nor the vintage glassware and stainedglass windows that owner Jason Shechtman acquired during trips to antique shops before he opened the club in 2017. There’s the soft-seating space with sofas, a small two-level bar, and a very serious-looking chef’s table perched outside a teeny-tiny kitchen.

The food that the kitchen turns out is unexpected, too, in the most delightful of ways, especially with a new partnership in place between Shechtman and chef Nikhil Naiker of Nimki, the pop-up that’s been serving Courtland’s customers since 2019. Shechtman and Naiker have decided to make the partnership permanent, allowing Naiker and his second-in-command Ricardo Silva to expand their offerings.

“I’m so excited to do this,” Naiker says, “to have a home base where I can develop new things.” A Johnson & Wales grad with a degree in culinary arts and sustainability, he honed his chops at the now-closed north restaurant before creating Nimki. Naiker has described his own cooking style as “New England Tropical,” because it combines his love of local meats and seafood with cooking techniques and flavors that he learned growing up in Fiji, and then in the Monterey Bay region of California. “I think for the longest time I was afraid to lean into those tropical flavors that mean so much to me,” he says. “But as I’ve slowly started to, I’m

Photography by Nick DelGiudice

“New England Tropical” dining at Courtland Club

Chef Nikhil Naiker

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TASTEFUL AMENITIES

A n i m a l f r i e n d l y

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C o m m u n i t y r o o m

F i t n e s s c e n t e r

G a m e r o o m O n - s i t e p a r k i n g P a t i o & g r i l l a r e a T h e a t r e r o o m

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a n d W a t e r F i r e .

hearing people say that they’ve never experienced those flavors before, and they love them.”

Examples of menu items include a Rock Crab and Carrot Flatbread with brown butter, peppercorn miso sauce, mustard, and lime, or a Roasted Black Bass with coconut broth, cumin herb oil, and bok choy. His Spiced and Fried Chicken Sandwich with jalapeño and cabbage slaw and tamarind chutney is a favorite and may claim a permanent spot on the menu, while other offerings will change according to what ingredients are freshest and available. There will be small plates and larger ones, and they’ll all be crafted to work alongside the unique cocktail program at the club, originally designed by local mixologist phenom Jesse Hedberg.

“His food complements our cocktails so well,” says Shechtman. “Over the past five years, I’ve seen Nikhil find his voice in his food, a combination of New England seafood, chicken, and lamb treated with influences of his upbringing from Fiji, as well as Indian flavors.”

The permanent position will also allow for the development of new ideas for both the kitchen and bar. When Naiker proposed a lamb barbecue to take place in March, it led to a conversation about using the leftover fat from the meat to create fat-washed cocktails, in which fat is mixed with a spirit – say, whiskey – and then frozen. The fat rises to the top and is scraped off, but the flavor of it is left behind in the alcohol, adding another level of flavor to the drink.

“We want to create experiences for people,” Shechtman says. And while the club does offer speakeasy-style paid memberships, it is absolutely open to everyone. When Crugnale moved out of the space in the 1930s, what succeeded it was a long line of post WWII-era men’s clubs; Shechtman wanted to honor that spirit of hospitality and camaraderie, and he has. But this latest incarnation of 51 Courtland Street is poised to be its most successful, and thanks to the appointment of Naiker, surely its most delicious.

The Courtland Club

51 Courtland Street CourtlandClub.com

Photography by Nick DelGiudice

From seafood dishes to the Spiced & Fried Chicken Sandwich, Nimki curates creative small plates and entrees

Discover the flavors of Rhode Island! From fresh seafood shacks to farm-to-table eateries, little Rhody offers a diverse culinary landscape that caters to all tastes. Indulge in delicious seafood, global cuisines, and locally-inspired dishes, and experience the culinary richness of the Ocean State with a dining experience that will leave you craving for more.

All Favorites Cafe

1678 Broad St, Cranston | 401-941-3550

allfavoritescafe.com |

A Breakfast/Lunch restaurant serving a mash up of Southern and French inspired flavors. Everything from French Toast to Cubanos.

Casa Azul

890 Allens Ave, PVD | 401-414-7799

CasaAzulri.com |

Our Casa is Your Casa. Authentic Mexican Flavors, Delicious Recipes and Vegan options. Home of the Wicked Best Margarita.

CAV Restaurant

14 Imperial Place, Providence | 401 751-9164

CavRestaurant.com |

Bistro style Brunch and Lunch. Fine Dining Dinner.

8 locations across RI!

Chelos.com |

A Rhode Island staple since 1955! Fresh, homemade deliciousness in every bite.

The Coast Guard House Restaurant

40 Ocean Rd, Narragansett | 401-789-0700

thecoastguardhouse.com |

Waterfront dining - local raw bar, lobster, pasta, steak & seafood. Award-winning wine list. Dining rooms, bars, patio & deck.

Dave’s Fresh Marketplace

Ten Locations throughout Rhode Island 401-558-0190 |

davesmarketplace.com/WeeklySpecials

Made fresh daily in our kitchens - 60+ Take Out Options!

MainStreet Cofee

137 Main Street, East Greenwich 401-885-8787 |

MainStreet-Cofee.com

Casual cofee house meets hip martini bar. Best Espresso Martinis in Rhode Island.

Marcelino’s Boutique Bar

1 W Exchange St, Providence | 401-666-0088

marcelinosboutiquebar.com |

Craft cocktail bar serving Mid-Terranean

Fusion Mezze and World-Class Craft Cocktails | #ItsMarcelinos

Twin Willows

865 Boston Neck Road, Narragansett 401-789-8153 | TwinWillowsRI.com |

Water-view dining with fresh lobsters & steamers served daily in this casual sports bar/restaurant.

Chelo’s Hometown Bar & Grille

Food Trends: Plant-Based Love

Celebrate Earth Day with vegan dining updates, spicy seitan sandwiches, and sustainable microgreens

By Abbie Lahmers

Rich Gaccione of Born

From Pain and, soon, Providence Vegan Deli

A seitan maker’s plans for a new plant-based deli

For Rich Gaccione, what began as a COVID lockdown bread-baking story soon evolved into a niche plant-based business called Born From Pain. The long-time vegan eater found himself without a job in 2020 and was inspired to cook for people, so he started experimenting with seitan, a meat substitute using gluten. Now he sells vegan Pepperoni Sticks;

his original flavor Firestorm, a spicy, fragrant, Ethiopian-inspired seitan; the Greek-herb seasoned Pythagoras Feast; and more.

At farmers markets, Gaccione also educates patrons curious about incorporating the lesser-known ingredient into their cooking. “I want people to have access to locally made vegan food that doesn’t use any crazy

ingredients. It’s all very simple, healthy, unique, and local,” he explains. For now, folks can preorder seitan online for pickup Tuesdays at Trinity Brewhouse, or find him at the the Farm Fresh Market on Sims Avenue April 20 and 27 – but soon Gaccione plans to open Providence Vegan Deli, operating in a shared space with Like No Udder. BornFromPainBakery.com

P hoto courtesy of Born From Pain

Beloved vegan ice cream shop expands with new spot

Since learning that their lease wouldn’t be renewed, Karen Krinsky and Chris Belanger, owners of Like No Udder, have worked tirelessly to ensure the vegan ice cream shop opens for another season – which will be their 16th, including their early days operating out of the signature purple truck. So it’s with relief and excitement that Krinsky shares that the new location is just a couple miles away and is double the size. This means more baked goods, more efficient ice cream production, and making room for the aforementioned Providence Vegan Deli, with tentative plans to open in May.

From Unicorn Shakes to plant-based knishes – and the only vegan ice cream cake around – Like No Udder has become a community staple. “Our customers don’t fit one box. While we certainly serve vegans and dairy-intolerant folks, we also have a large group of people who don’t care – they just like it,” says Krinsky. “I’m not just in this business to sell ice cream; my mission is to be part of the community, do good, respect animals, and have fun.”

783 Hope Street, Like-No-Udder.com

Pawtucket-grown greens that pack a punch

Sometimes good things come in small packages – which is certainly the case with nutrient-rich microgreens, the trendy sprouts you’ve probably seen atop toasts and salads. And they very well may have come from 401 Micro Greens, an urban farm in Pawtucket run by Sergio Nunes and Nicole Whitehead. The pair grows greens using sustainable practices, without chemicals or pesticides.

“We both come from the fast-paced world of the restaurant/hospitality industry where we discovered that growing our food as a hobby was very gratifying,” says Nunes. After learning about the superfood benefits of the small crop in the summer of 2023, they decided to open their own farm. A standout variety is the nutty, mildly sweet Sunflower Shoots, which they recommend using as a garnish with a squeeze of lime and Tajin. Salad mixes emphasizing spice, crunch, and nutrients create endless culinary pairings. Find 401 Micro Greens topping dishes at local restaurants, for purchase at the Pawtucket Farmers Market, and online for delivery. 401MicroGreens.com

PIC OF PVD

Te clouds clear to reveal a spring day 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.