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Contents

Photography both by Stacey Doyle

MAY 2015

Examining the road to legalization

This Month 21 Innovative Design RISD's annual fashion show comes to PPAC

25 The 4-1-1 on 420 The low down on marijuana reform in RI

Every Month

Federal Taphouse & Kitchen

35 City Style Downtown vintage is here to stay 35 At Home 37 The Look 38 Get Fit 41 Shopping 42 Beauty

47 Feast The newest brews and burgers on Federal Hill 48 Review 50 In the Kitchen 53 On the Menu 54 In the Drink 56 Rhody Bites

59 Get Out The underdog tale of the 2015 WBRU Rock Hunt 60 Calendar 63 Art 64 Music 67 Theatre

6 Editor’s Note

68 Savor Providence

7 Online Exclusives

We fed our inner Homer Simpson,

8 Feedback

one donut at a time

13 Providence Pulse TEDx brings “ideas worth spreading” to Providence

On the Cover: Design by Meghan H. Follett.

13 City 17 Scene in PVD May 2015 | Providence Monthly

Editor’s Note A Hazy Proposition For a state that’s been late in the game to a lot of progressive legislation – we’re looking at you, gay marriage – Rhode Island is surprisingly forward-thinking when it comes to the prospect of legalizing marijuana. There are two bills going through the Rhode Island General Assembly this political season pertaining to cannabis: one would change how medical marijuana cardholders get their medicine, and one would allow everyone to legally possess up to an ounce of cannabis, or two marijuana plants. This might be because the statistics show there’s a demand – the latest National Survey on Drug Use and Health put us at the top of the nation for recreational marijuana use, with 30% of the adult population admitting to smoking at least monthly. But really, it’s about tax dollars. Colorado raked in over $50 million in tax revenue from recreational pot last year alone. For a state

that’s facing a budget shortfall of nearly $35 million this year, that kind of cash infusion is enticing – though certainly not the only solution, and one which seems on one hand like a quick fix and on the other like a smart financial and social move. As we go to press, it’s unclear whether the legislation has enough support to pass the House and Senate. What do you think? Join the conversation online with #CannabisRI.

PROVIDENCE MONTHLY

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Creative Director Julie Tremaine @JulieTremaine

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Editor Elyena de Goguel

Art Director Meghan H. Follett

Advertising Design Director Layheang Meas

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Graphic Designer Caitlin Musso

Account Managers Shelley Cavoli: Shelley@ProvidenceOnline.com Louann DiMuccio-Darwich: Louann@ProvidenceOnline.com Ann Gallagher: Ann@ProvidenceOnline.com Kristine Mangan: Kristine@ProvidenceOnline.com Elizabeth Riel: Liz@ProvidenceOnline.com Dan Schwartz: DanS@ProvidenceOnline.com Kimberly Tingle: Kim@ProvidenceOnline.com Stephanie Oster Wilmarth: Stephanie@ProvidenceOnline.com Contributing Photographers Amy Amerantes Tony Pacitti Ian Travis Barnard Force 4 Photography Mike Braca Tim Siekiera Stacey Doyle Melissa Stimpson Terace Greene Contributing Illustrators Kendrah Smith Contributing Writers Keith Andrade @AndradeK Erin Balsa

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Win THiS Want to win a family four-pack of tickets to the roger Williams Park Zoo? Head to providenceonline.com and sign up for our Hey Rhody newsletter to enter this month’s contest.

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Our statewide dining guide will keep you informed and well-fed

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From Our Readers Cup O’ Gratitude

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Keeping It Clean Thanks for the fantastic article [“Ten Years and Counting,” March 2015] on the Downtown Improvement District’s 10th anniversary! You did a great job highlighting our programs, and we appreciate the recognition of our work. Joelle Kanter The Providence Foundation

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Melancholy Play: a chamber musical by Sarah Ruhl & Todd Almond

A Final Sendoff The article on Brown Bird’s last album [“Final Flight,” April 2015] was a beautifully written piece. I look forward to its release. Diane Stolar Thank you for the great insight [“Final Flight,” April 2015] into two wonderful people and their lasting musical impact. Roger Lamb

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may 28 – June 28

supporting sponsor

CORRECTION

season sponsors

In our April 2015 cover story [“The Urban Parents Guide to Raising Little Superstars,” April 2015] we incorrectly listed the Ladd Observatory’s hours. Their current seasonal observation hours are Tuesday 8-10pm, weather permitting.

clockWISe fRom toP: Rachael WaRRen, chaRlIe thuRSton, mIa ellIS, Rebecca gIbel & joe WIlSon, jR.

trinity repertory company (401) 351-4242 • trinityrep.com • 201 Washington Street • Providence • RI •

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Providence Monthly | May 2015

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CITY / MALCONTENT / SCENE IN PVD

Big Ideas in Little Providence Adrienne Gagnon, co-founder of DownCity Design, spoke at last year’s TEDx Providence

For the fourth year, TEDx returns to Providence on May 2. Hosted by the Columbus Theatre on Broadway, TEDx will see local thinkers, dreamers and innovators laying out

their “ideas worth spreading” for Providence. Our idea was to restore the Superman Building to its former glory as a zeppelin dock… We won’t be presenting.

May 2015 | Providence Monthly

Pulse |

City

From Page 13

PVD’s Brain Trust

TEDxProvidence explores big ideas in our own backyard “Providence has a very diverse group of people living here,” says Robin Dionne of TEDxProvidence, which returns for its fourth year on May 2. This makes our capital city a perfect fit for TEDx, a local satellite of the larger, global TED series of conferences and multimedia initiatives. Standing for technology, education and design, TED was founded on the very idea of bringing innovative people and concepts together. TEDx – where x stands for independently organized event – applies that philosophy on a micro level. This year will explore the themes of

entertainment, finance and environment. As per the TED format, local players connected directly and indirectly to those fields will get 18 minutes to engage with an audience about “ideas worth spreading.” Speakers on deck run the range from activists and economists to dancers and slam poets, including Norb Vonnegut (author/finance blogger), Willem van Rijn (climate change activist), Kristen Minsky (vintage dance company director) and Lucy Spelman (doctor of zoological medicine). TEDx Providence will be taking place at the historic Columbus Theatre on

Broadway, a venue that’s no stranger to being a sort of petri dish of artistic expression, performance and scale. “Just like TEDx has a little of everything, Providence has a little of everything,” said Robin, adding, “The Columbus has a lot of everything.” The venue’s recent resurrection, from sadly neglected reminder of Providence’s past to its current status as a multi-purpose hub of performance and creation, is itself a testament to the ideas TED promotes. Great things can happen when passionate people with big ideas put their heads together. tedxprovidence.com. –Tony Pacitti

Nick Horton, Prison Reformer and Program Coordinator at OpenDoors

Library Volume

Can’t Stop Won’t Stop

Don’t Stop the Music brings sound to the quiet zone After binging on the classic sounds brought to you by Record Store Day last month, you’re probably hankering for some live music to round out your palate. Thankfully the Providence Public Library will be collaborating with a host of local artists to create Don’t Stop the Music, a genre-spanning exhibition of RI’s music over the next two months. Along with a static gallery

showing off the evolution of local music through posters, albums, costumes and more, there will be live music and film screenings throughout the month. Kicking things off will be the iconic Steve Smith and the Nakeds with a night of R&B stylings on May 1, followed by Reggae with Natural Element on May 8. The What Cheer? Brigade will be busting down

the doors the next day with an upbeat brass selection accompanied by the American Band, one of the oldest running bands in the country. The library will cool down over the next week with a smooth blend of folk and jazz before heating up again to the sound of Beta Motel’s electronica and dance music. Opera and choral groups including Opera Providence and the Providence Gay

Men’s Chorus will wrap things up before Roz and the Rice Cakes return from their national tour to finish the exhibition with their unique brand of spacey indie-prog. With all of these great concerts there is sure to be something for everybody. Did we mention it’s free? Providence Public Library, 150 Empire Street. 455-8000, provlib.org. –Jordan LaRose

#ChooseRI

The Choice Is Yours Millennials are in a tough spot. They’re the most educated generation in Western history, but have also accumulated the largest amount of debt (that education isn’t cheap). With a job market that is only just beginning to dust itself off, many Millennials are in over their heads with student loans and no job experience under their belts. Logically, these young people are fleeing across the 14

Providence Monthly | May 2015

country to wherever jobs are being offered and the gettin’ is somewhat good. In order to stay competitive, Rhode Island needs to create a desirable environment to attract and retain these young professionals, which is exactly what the the Millennial Professional Group of Rhode Island (MPGRI) intends to do. The MPGRI seeks to showcase RI as a worthy destination for Millennials

entering the work force. The group, which started in January, took a very Millennial approach and started the #ChooseRI social media campaign as a way for other young professionals to share their stories about making Rhode Island their home. They’ve been building a large network by hosting events in the Providence area, like their team-up with Providence PechaKucha in March, where

nearly every presenter shared their personal stories on how they came to live, work and succeed in Rhode Island. Future plans are to create financial literacy seminars and a “Millennial Summit” event to provide further networking and education for young professionals. So why do you #ChooseRI? You can connect with MPGRI on Facebook and share your story. –Nicolas Staab

Photo courtesy of Cat Laine

The Millennial Professional Group of RI asks why you #ChooseRI

Pulse |

City

Malcontent

If You Build It* They Will Come

*So long as “it” is more than just a ballpark Nothing so far this year has stirred up the conflicted emotions and opinions of Rhode Islanders quite like the new PawSox ownership’s plans to move the team out of Pawtucket and into Providence. While some have been quick to write off the possibility as unworkable, undesirable or entirely unnecessary, I find the possibility of a baseball stadium abutting the Jewelry District and riverfront intriguing and worthy of discussion. (It should go without saying, however, that public money should not be invested in building or subsidizing the stadium, and valuable Providence real estate should not simply be given away to make it happen. One thing we can all agree on is that we don’t need another 38 Studios-esque debacle.) If a stadium is constructed as part of a more comprehensive and forwardthinking development plan, it could bring new life to a once-moribund area of the city. To simply forfeit a once-in-a-lifetime parcel of land to a stadium that will host 70-something home games a year and call that a development plan is folly. However, to build a multi-use outdoor venue

that can not only host minor league baseball, but local high school and college sports tournaments and exhibitions, concerts, school commencements and other open-air events, then surround that stadium with dining, shopping, nightlife and other amenities that keep the street level active seems like a fine plan for land that was previously home to highway overpasses and bridge abutments. All of this goes hand-in-hand with our attempts to jumpstart the Jewelry District as an economic hotbed. The focus is primarily on developing the socalled “Knowledge Economy,” featuring the usual assortment of meds-and-eds along with tech-driven start-ups. Economic clusters like this are important drivers for cities and should be a focus in the Jewelry District, but for my dollar, we should also be focusing on creating a nightlife cluster there, too. By developing dual economic drivers in that neighborhood – one that primarily functions 9 to 5 and the other coming to life after dark – we develop a 24-hour economy in an area of the city that is less residential than most.

We often shy away from discussing nightlife as a vital economic driver for the city because of negative associations fostered by news stories of violence and unruly behavior, like the fuss on Federal Hill last summer. But it’s important to remember that those are the exception, not the rule, and that the vast majority of businesses operating in “the other 9 to 5” are peaceful, law-abiding and crucial to creating a vibrant city where people want to live and visit. The Jewelry District already has a fair amount of nightlife, ranging from friendly watering holes like Nick-A-Nee’s, to music venues like The Spot Underground, to dance clubs like Art Bar. While the area has seen its share of problems caused by rowdy dance clubs that attracted a younger crowd and were prone to violence, most of those have been shut down, leaving in place the potential for a nightlife cluster that could peacefully co-exist alongside a Knowledge Economy-driven innovation district. The opening of the 195 land provides a vital opportunity to connect the east and west sides of the river. Again, night-

life can be an important factor here. With bars like Wild Colonial, Hot Club and Whiskey Republic, and restaurants like Bacaro, Parkside and Hemenway’s keeping the South Main and Water Street corridors active after dark, proper development of the 195 land could create a bustling center of activity to complement the Downcity/Kennedy Plaza/Capital Center hub. A baseball stadium with a comprehensive development plan around it could be the focal point to tie the area together. Think of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, another urban waterfront area that sits in close proximity to a baseball stadium. It was revived from its post-industrial doldrums with a cluster of arts, culture, residential buildings, offices, shopping, museums and much more, in the process becoming an important tourist draw. If we’re going to consider building a baseball stadium in Providence, that’s a model worth emulating, and if we’re going to revive the Jewelry District, we’ve got to think in terms of all 24 hours in the day, not just the ones between 9 and 5. –John Taraborelli

The Final Frontier

The Universe at Home

Photo courtesy of Erik Gould

Exploring the skies across RI If you’re a connoisseur of the cosmos, you probably already know that it can be difficult to find a local observatory to point your eyes in the right direction. What you might not know, however, is that there are four worthy observatories right here in Rhode Island that serve the public free of charge on clear nights of the week. Brown’s own Ladd Observatory is perhaps the most venerated of the bunch – it’s been open since 1893 and is currently curated by Associate Dean David Targan. Head to the East Side on Tuesday nights at 8pm to start your week of astronomy. 210 Doyle Avenue. 863-2323, brown.edu/ Departments/Physics/Ladd/. For another educationally rooted approach to sky watching, visit the Margaret M. Jacoby Observatory on CCRI’s Knight Campus in Warwick for

Wednesday’s Public Open Nights beginning at 7:30pm. 400 East Avenue, Warwick. 825-1000, ccri.edu/physics/ observatory.html. For those looking for a more coastal location to observe the heavenly bodies, the Frosty Drew Observatory and Sky Theatre is open on Friday nights half an hour after dusk. Located in Charlestown’s Ninigret Park, this observatory is renowned for its late observing hours. 61 Park Lane, Charlestown. 3649508, frostydrew.org. To end off a meteoric week of searching the sky, drop by the rustic Seagrave Memorial Observatory in North Scituate. Starting at 8pm on Saturdays, join the Skyscrapers Inc. for a final look at the week’s firmament. 47 Peep Toad Road, Scituate. theskyscrapers.org. –Jordan LaRose

The Ladd Observatory

May 2015 | Providence Monthly

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Haute off the Runway

RISD’s Collection 2015 showcases tomorrow’s star fashion designers By Ashlyn Mooney

It’s 1 am on a Monday night and the Senior Apparel Design Studio at the Rhode Island School of Design is humming with activity. In one corner, a young woman hunches over a silky square of white fabric, intently handstitching an intricate design in electric blue thread. In another, two students take a break from their sewing, chatting and laughing while nearby a male student arranges flowing swathes of pink tulle over a dress mannequin. In three weeks, RISD students will present their final project to a panel of guest critics – fashion industry professionals at the top of their fields. The panel selects the best garments for a one-day runway show, Collection 15, held this year on May 9 at the Providence Performing Arts Center. For RISD seniors, the event is the culmination of an intensive yearlong thesis projects that will earn some students jobs at the world’s top fashion houses. This year, the panel of guest critics includes designers Derek Lam and Simon Spurr as well as Anne Slowey, Elle magazine’s fashion news director, and Neil Gilks, the senior

Photo courtesy of Matt Francis Photography

Paul Wu - Collection 2015

projects manager at the Council of Fashion Designers of America. Critics will carefully evaluate and discuss each student’s work before choosing which pieces will be showcased. “We have our final critiques a week before the actual show,” says Andrea Dyes, a senior in Apparel Design. “So we’re trying to finish up our collection and all of our garments so that they do what they’re supposed to do.” The RISD Apparel Design department is structured to prepare students for a career at the top of the fashion industry. Students learn all aspects of apparel design and construction: technical classes go from basic to advanced drafting, draping and construction over sophomore, junior and senior years. Dyes routinely works in the studio – a recently revamped space off North Main Street – until three or four in the morning. She’s not alone. While Collection features work from sophomore and juniors, the 19 seniors in the Apparel Design department are especially intent on showcasing successful garments. Sophomore pieces are picked from the Re-Innovatives challenge to create a wearable item from recycled materials other than fabric, while junior pieces are chosen from tailored jacket looks and cut/sew knitwear projects. Seniors, however, have been given complete creative freedom to design an entire collection over the course of the academic year. Professor and Apparel Design department head Meg DeCubellis has noted that for many seniors, the Collection show is “a highlight of their personal journey as emerging designers.” In the new lobby of the Apparel Design building, two screens display footage from previous Collection shows on a loop: models wearing elaborate gowns, suits and coats file down a long runway. “It’s a real runway show,” says Dyes. This year, seniors’ work will also be shown at a gallery in New York City on Monday, May 18. The industry event,

Stephen Smith - Collection 2015

“For many seniors, the Collection show is a highlight of their personal journey as emerging designers.” - Meg Decubellis, RISD Professor and Apparel Design Department Head RISD Backstudio 2015, places seniors’ work at the physical center of the fashion world and invites a wide variety of industry professionals to catch a glimpse of the creative processes of some of fashion design’s future innovators. RISD alumni in the apparel industry include Nicole Miller (’73) and Katie Gallagher (’09), both of whom run successful independent labels. Other alumni find success at established

design houses including Donna Karan International and Hussein Chalayan. In the studio, a wide variety of design concepts are on display. Each student is allotted his or her own table and dress mannequins. Many students use the walls of the studio as “inspiration boards,” a place to display design sketches, fabric swatches and inspirational pictures. One student pinned feathers and costume jewelry to the

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Noah Berch - Collection 2015

wall behind her desk; another left his wall blank but for a single swatch of blue fabric. Scattered across the studio, mannequins wear pieces in various states of completion: a cream-colored pleated skirt with pins sticking out of it, or a gorgeous grey suit jacket with black feathered sleeves but no buttons. On the wall behind her sewing table, Dyes has taped up pictures of magazine advertisements and reconstructive surgeries next to rows and rows of pink and blue fabric swatches. She’s also inspired by the work of artists Hans Bellmer, Mario Sorrenti and Etienne Gros, all known for their artistic studies of the human form. “My collection is about the body’s inherent flaws,” she says. Titled Congenital, Dyes’ project utilizes foam and latex to create sculptural,

Providence Monthly | May 2015

wearable commentaries on body image and physical imperfection. “Everything’s asymmetrical, everyone’s overweight,” says Dyes, laughing. She pays meticulous attention to every detail of her pieces. She says that one garment, constructed from foam and flesh-colored latex, has required hours of studied sun exposure in order to achieve the shade she wants. Collection 2015 will feature no more than 60 student pieces, many of which will be for sale to the public the morning after the show on Sunday, May 10 at the Apparel Design building on 189 Canal Street. Tickets for the show itself start at $20 for the 2pm show and $35 for the 7pm show. Tickets are available at the Providence Performing Arts Center box office and online at ppacri.org. All proceeds benefit the RISD Scholarship Fund.

Photo courtesy of Matt Francis Photography

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Pot for Profit

Rhode Island toes the line of legalization By Elyena “Nellie” de Goguel Photos by Stacey Doyle

Congratulations may be in order. Or, depending on one’s viewpoint, a disapproving wag of the finger. According to the latest National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), Rhode Island is officially the most stoned state in America. One in eight of us Rhodies above the age of 12 claim to get high at least once a month, and 30% of 18- to 25-year-olds indulge in marijuana on a monthly basis. And yet, marijuana is technically illegal in Rhode Island. But perhaps not for long. On March 5, Senator Joshua Miller and Representative Scott Slater introduced the Marijuana Regulation, Control and Taxation Act, which aims to treat marijuana (referred to as cannabis in scientific and medical circles) similarly to alcohol and cigarettes. If passed, the law would allow persons over the age of 21 to legally possess two cannabis plants and up to one ounce of marijuana. Those who are in jail or who’ve been convicted for marijuana-related crimes no longer punishable by law could apply to have said crimes expunged from their records. But this act is about more than simply making an increasingly less demonized drug available for mass consumption. Any proposed bill dealing with marijuana will, by association, involve agriculture, judicial reform, health and safety, education and, most urgently, economics. In a state with an almost $200 million deficit, potential tax dollars garnered from legalized cannabis (projected tax revenue earnings estimated in the proposed legislation suggest anywhere from $21 million to $80 million annually) would be a pleasing prospect to any politician. May 2015 | Providence Monthly

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Bright emerald in color with a strong familiar scent, a small basil plant sits, its roots submerged in swirling water; an indicator of the sophisticated indoor aquaculture I’m about to see. The soothing sound of circulating fluid echoes in the upstairs room of a suburban Rhode Island home while my new caregiving acquaintance, Dave*, discusses the finer points of medical marijuana laws in the Ocean state. “You really can’t call [medical marijuana] a business, “ he explains. “Technically speaking, we [growers] are all not for profit.” Rhode Island legalized medical marijuana in 2006. This means that if you suffer from chronic pain caused from sickness or injury, you most likely qualify to become a medical marijuana patient. Currently, patients can procure marijuana at one of Rhode Island’s three compassionate care centers, or go directly to a “caregiver,” like Dave. Caregivers also travel to patients who are unable to leave their homes. “My mom has Lyme disease,” says Dave, who grows legally and distributes his medicine directly to card-holding patients. “She was strung out on opiates for so long [for the nerve pain.] And * Name has been changed

even though marijuana doesn’t get rid of all the pain, it takes the edge off to the point where she’s functional and completely off all of the opiates, which were destroying her body.” This switch from conventional prescription drugs to cannabis is consistent with the findings of a recent study published in The Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, discussing medical marijuana patients specifically in Rhode Island. Researchers from Brown University and the University of Arkansas found that 56% of card-holding respondents reported using cannabis as an alternative to pharmaceuticals, and the majority of those who did said that because it alleviated their pain, they would be “interested in alternative treatment options to opioid-based treatment regimens.” “Now, my mom grows her own medicine. I taught her everything,” says Dave. The growing he speaks of is not your typical soil-and-water operation. When we descend into his basement, the atmosphere at first seems colder than the late winter air outside. As he lifts up a heavy curtain, however, I experience a shift to balmier temperatures, reminiscent of Florida in February. Suddenly, a new smell reaches my nostrils, something far sweeter and much more notorious than the smell of a household cooking herb.

A Strain By Any Other Name Would Not Smell As Sweet I’ve stepped into a silver tinged laboratory where little budding plants reach for artificial sunshine – plants that imitate the tee-shirt emblazoned marijuana imagery of my youth. “There is no soil used,” the grower explains. “It’s an aeroponic recirculating deep water system.” This expensive operation (my guide explains how he’s invested over $80,000 into growing over a two year period) is expertly crafted and almost 100% sustainable. All the wiring was set up by a licensed electrician and almost all of the

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if ri lEGAlizES rECrEAtiONAl POt equipment is American-made. Within the confines of this high-tech DIY lab grow two different marijuana strains: Chemdawg, a hybrid strain that can be anywhere from 18-26% THC, and Skywalker Kush, an indica-dominant hybrid strain that is potentially 30% THC. If, like me, you’re not a cannabis enthusiast intimately familiar with the intricacies of the plant, here’s a brief breakdown of what marijuana actually is. Marijuana is naturally occurring. There are thousands of different strains that can be found natively growing throughout the planet. Cannabinoids are the active ingredients in the plant, the most well known being THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is mainly responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis. However, a plant can have varying levels of THC and other cannabinoids such as Cannabigerols (CBG), Cannabichromenes (CBC) and Cannabidiol (CBD) – all of which affect the brain and body differently. “Cannabidiol is an anti-inflammatory and is specifically great at treating movement disorders – Parkinsons, MS, epileptic seizures,” Dave explains. The strain game has evolved dramatically over recent years and it’s unlikely that what someone smokes today is even remotely similar to what your parents once smoked in secret. Different strains have specific uses. Some are great for muscle pain, some help with headaches, some rock your whole day, while some ease chronic tension. Indicas will mainly put you to sleep, whereas sativas can get you high for hours and leave you feeling super energetic. Some argue that modern marijuana is far stronger than its predecessors, and that if you are obtaining it illegally you could be inhaling or ingesting pesticides or other harmful chemicals. That’s why trusted independent growing operations – not just of cannabis but of anything one puts into his or her body – are the key to acquiring a high quality product free from chemical infestation. “I just want better quality pot,” says the grower. “That’s the most important thing, honestly. You’re not going to be able to compete in Rhode Island

unless you’re pumping out the best [product], and everybody’s got it down to a science in this state. Quite literally.”

just Say No We’ve all heard the arguments: Marijuana is a gateway drug. Pot harms your brain and damages your lungs. Cannabis cultivates a criminal culture and causes psychosis. If it were legalized, more children would be at risk of using. Many of us grew up attending D.A.R.E seminars and watching ads that portrayed pot users as unmotivated, uncaring individuals who like to get high and engage in other criminal activities, all to get more nefarious substances. These villainous characters almost always ended up in jail. Or dead. But, unlike alcohol or cocaine or heroine, there has never been a single recorded death related to marijuana overdose. Ever. In fact, someone would have to consume 20,000 to 40,000 times the amount of THC in an average sized joint to even be close to death. As far as prohibition, Rhode Island Senator Josh Miller, one of the main supporters of the aforementioned legalization bill, recently stated, “Marijuana prohibition has been a long-term failure. Forcing marijuana into the underground market ensures authorities have no control of the product. Regulating marijuana would allow the product to be sold safely and responsibly by legitimate businesses in appropriate locations.” While prohibition is obviously not working (I think we can all name at least one person we know who illegally uses cannabis), there is scientific evidence that suggests the active ingredients in cannabis can trigger schizophrenia in those genetically predisposed to the disease. However, an even more recent study published in Molecular Psychiatry suggests the reverse, that “the same genes that increase psychosis risk may also increase risk of cannabis use.” The potential effect of legalization on children is, of course, a main concern. The Denver Post reported a rise in Children’s Hospitals seeing kids who accidentally ingested their parents’ legal THC-infused treats. But, like with any potentially harmful object – a gun for instance – it is up to the parents to properly secure such an item… one would think.

Of tAx

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lEGAl MArijuANA frOM

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Providence Monthly | May 2015

As for the gateway drug argument, logic is lacking. It only makes sense that those who are heroin or cocaine addicts probably started off smoking marijuana. I would venture to say that most people’s initial drug experiences are not with hard drugs. But if you reverse the argument, you would be hard pressed to prove that most people who have smoked inevitably use more dangerous substances.

A Hazy future On March 10, a raging blaze engulfed a mill building on Sims Avenue in Providence. The fire possibly originated from what is being called a “drug lab” by local media outlets. This is obviously worrying: if marijuana were legalized, would inexperienced growers be more likely to start such fires? Not unless BHO also becomes part of the conversation. “It was butane that caused the fire,” explains Dave. Butane Hash Oil (BHO) is a cannabis-based product that is created when butane, a highly flammable substance, is pushed through a closed container containing marijuana plants (often the trimmings). The resulting substance is highly concentrated and can contain THC levels astronomically higher than those found in a flowering plant. “Making BHO is illegal… I don’t do it, but I know a lot of people who do. Think of it this way: I believe the world record just got broken, someone hit 32% THC with a new strain (of plant). But BHO starts with 60% levels of THC. I’ve seen them go up to 97%. That’s insanity.” Making BHO isn’t just illegal in Rhode Island. It’s also illegal in Colorado. Thus, a distinction needs to be made. BHO is a substance that is not only dangerous to consume, but can cause lifethreatening situations during its creation process. The fire on Sims Ave – if it were indeed caused by butane related to BHO – does not belong in the same conversation as legalization. “I’m not necessarily pro-legalization, recreationally,” says Dave. “I’m not sure that I would want to see weed as anything other than a medicine.” Independent growers may be the first to suffer

if marijuana is legalized in Rhode Island, perhaps even before legalization ever takes place. There is a bill currently circulating that looks to cut out individual caretakers in Rhode Island altogether: Bill S0791. If passed, it would turn the current marijuana medical system upside down, eliminating caregivers in favor of two for-profit companies that would supply exclusively to our state’s existing compassion centers. Thus, patients would have no choice but to buy from the centers, who in turn would only carry marijuana from the aforementioned companies. Complete privatization of pot. The people who introduced this bill are not politicians but private for-profit business interests who are reportedly paying lobbyists $10,000 a month to promote the legislature.

looking forward If national trends are anything to go by, then legalization is inevitable. Alaska, Oregon, Colorado and Washington have all legalized cannabis for recreational use, and almost half of the United States supports legalization in some form. Already in Providence there is a cannabis friendly “lounge” called Elevated, a Peck Street spot that caters to card holding patients who wish to consume marijuana in

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a safe space outside of their own homes. However, despite Rhode Island’s number one ranking on the national scale of marijuana smoking states, there are, of course, those who oppose legalization. Colonel Stephen McCartney of the Warwick Police recently explained in an interview that legalization would be sending the wrong type of message to Rhode Island’s youth. He also countered the economic argument by stating, “if this is the only way we can improve our economy then we have a serious problem.” Attorney General Peter Kilmartin is another who is not in favor of legalization, and, like McCartney, is concerned with how legalization would affect our state’s adolescents. “Youth perception of marijuana as a medicine coupled with youth perception of the risk of marijuana is already diminishing due to decriminalization.” Kilmartin recently expressed via email. “This legislative measure would bring our state down a slippery slope and would be devastating to our youth who are the future leaders of this state.” The Marijuana Regulation, Control and Taxation Act, if passed, would ensure that the Department of Business Regulation (DBR) would at least be involved in the creation of governing rules, testing, labeling of product and would prohibit the use of dangerous pesticides and other chemicals when growing in RI. As for taxation, 40% of the taxes earned from legal cultivation and selling would go to the Department of Health to fund voluntary alcohol, tobacco and drug abuse treatment and prevention programs and 10% would be spent on drug recognition expert training for law enforcement. But what would happen to Dave? “I would be consulting. And I’m already consulting a lot – going around and setting up peoples’ grows with them. That’s where the money is going to be for people like me with the experience and the knowledge. Legal marijuana, though...” he stumbles over the phrase. “...that doesn’t even register in my brain.” Legalized marijuana. It is hard to imagine. And only those who’ve experienced the coffee shops of Amsterdam, or the newly sprouted operations in Colorado, or who already hold a medical card, really know what it feels like to consume marijuana uninhibited by fear of punishment. As we go to press, the Marijuana Regulation, Control and Taxation Act is headed to the House for an official vote. While legalization in Rhode Island seems possible in 2015, nothing is guaranteed.

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Visit our website estheticsolutionsri.com

ity craftsmen, with a wide variety of styles and tastes, from Osborne & Little to RomoFabrics to Kravet and Thibaut and more. There’s something that’ll suit just

EDEN XO | 705 Oaklawn Ave, Cranston | 401-275-2077 | Edenxo.com

about anyone and any home or space. They have also

Gift Certificates Available for Mother’s Day 845 Oaklawn Avenue Suite 104, Cranston, RI | 401-487-6083 |

The Insurance Store

just launched an exciting new line of customized baby bedding, furniture and décor to their design specialty.

Mother's Day Special Complimentary Gel Manicure with Spa Pedicure $35 valid until 5/31/15 ($60 value)

Full service flower shop

"Protecting Everything You Value"

The store also recently underwent some changes

Personally Tailored Service At Its Best…

– a new owner, several new designers, and new ideas. It’s the same location, but with a fresh vibe. Check out their Facebook page or their website’s photo gallery to get inspired or swing by their newly renovated showroom to find that something that’ll add the perfect touch to your home.

Perfect Touch Interiors 690 Oaklawn Avenue, Cranston 944-4440 • perfecttouchinteriors.com

We deliver more than just flowers... Providing excellent service and exquisite arrangements for over 50 years to Cranston residents. 751 Oaklawn Avenue | 401.942.1280 | gardenhillsfloristri.com • SponSored Content •

Call Melissa today for a free quote! 713 Oaklawn Avenue, Cranston 828-5100 | insurancestoreri.com |

we've got a new Look... coMing soon!

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core center of real energy, formerly of 469 angell street, Wayland square

City Style

AT HOME / SHOP TALK / THE LOOK / BEAUTY / GET FIT About the Homeowners Jane Driver and BJ Duprey have spent a year restoring their historic West Side home, which hadn’t been lived in since 1987 and used to be a boarding house. BJ is an owner of the Armory Revival Company, and Jane is the broker of Armory Properties.

Photography by Melissa Stimpson

Paradise Found Jane: 1. This painting is by Finnish artist Vaino Kola, who was my professor at Wheaton College. It’s of Iceland. It means a lot to me; he’s been a friend for a long time. The painting is sitting on a table from France that’s a family antique. 2. These vintage lamps (and the turquoise stools in the background) are from Emma’s Back Porch in Cranston. I collect vintage lamps so this is always my go-to place. 3. This coffee table came from Chateau & Bungalow

in Newport, a super fun little shop. It has a mixture of antiques and clothes and just a lot of fun, cool, old and new stuff. 4. In this dome are little pieces of vintage metal dollhouse furniture that I bought at the Rhode Island Antiques Mall in Pawtucket. They’re really cute. 5. We had the top of the kitchen island rebuilt out of heart pine from reclaimed beams from an old mill. The painting just behind it was painted by BJ’s daughter Genevieve Duprey.

May 2015 | Providence Monthly

Luminous Salon & Spa introduces it's

1s t A n n u A l

Mother's Day Contest Enter a mom who has influenced your life or the lives of others to win the following services:

other who m a w Do you kno pering? m a p s Deserve

Luminous Signature Massage

Lunch

Facial with Skin Analysis Hair Color, Cut & Styling

Basket of Hair & Skin Products

Spa Pedicure & Manicure

TD Bank Visa Gift Card

Makeup Application

Tickets to Trinity Rep

Submit your story, photo of yourself or family and the mother, her name, age, address, phone #, email address and your contact info by going to luminoussalonandspa.com through May 2nd

Winner will be chosen on May 6th

L U MINOUS S A L O N

S P A

For more information, call 228-7008 or misc@luminoussalonandspa.com â&#x20AC;˘ 133 Pitman Street, Providence 36

Providence Monthly | May 2015

City Style |

The Look

Mike Tullie

DownCity Style Studio

by John Taraborelli

WORKER'S

COMP

InjuREd At WORK? Learn The 3 Major Tricks Played On Injured Workers!

A black suit is so simple and classic, but offers so many possibilities. What can you tell me about this one? This is our basic twill suit in black. This is one of our most popular suits because it can be dressed up or easily made more casual with a pair of jeans or a less dressy shirt. The client gets to choose the fit, the style of lapel and pockets, and the overall length and cut. We can jazz it up with a fancy lining or some upgraded buttons. And, it’s made to measure.

Attorney At LAw

This is a very classic way to wear the suit. How could you add a bold accent or unorthodox touch without disrupting the overall look? If you’re wearing a tie, you can style it up with something bold and colorful in either a bowtie or a classic style. And if you are going with no tie, we can do a crisp white shirt with a contrasting fabric on the inside of the collar, placket and cuff, and also add contracting stitching on the button holes and buttons. Pocket squares also give you an opportunity for some edge.

StEPhEn j. dEnnIS Call For Your FREE Book On RI Comp

OFFICE: 401.453.1355 HOME: 401.245.0676 | CELL: 401.595.4571

Who are some of your personal style icons? I always liked a put-together look, even when I was a kid. I am always impressed with the way men looked when they went out of the house in the movies of the ‘40s and ‘50s, when people wore suits and ties with dress coats and hats. Just your average man-on-thestreet knew how to turn himself out. I am also a huge fan of Don Draper’s look from the first few seasons of Mad Men, when the show was set in the early ‘60s. I am often amazed at restaurants or public events today to see that men often look as though they don’t put much effort into it or just do not care.

Photography by Ian Travis Barnard

What are the important things to think to achieve that put-together look? Good coordination, with the right shoes – polished – and a little thought put into a shirt and tie is both functional and makes a statement that you gave it some thought, and that you care about how you approach your personal and business relationships. What are the five essentials you feel absolutely belong in every man’s wardrobe? A dark, well tailored suit; well polished shoes in both black and a shade of brown; a white shirt that fits perfectly, like the custom shirts we make; a versatile overcoat, which can be worn in many situations; and well cut jeans that can be worn with a blazer or suit jacket for a polished but more casual look. Finally, is there ever a bad occasion to wear a suit? No! The Arcade. 508-686-1359, downcitystyle.com

May 2015 | Providence Monthly

City Style |

Get Fit

By Jen Senecal

Bouncing Back

Jump your way to fitness on a trampoline

Trampolines aren’t just for sweet backflips at Jounce Fitness

inside of the Providence nightspot that Stacey and her husband own and operate. Wanting to offer the local fitness community something entirely new, they opted to bring the trampoline workout with a unique setting to Rhode Island. The sisters’ extensive fitness, sports and personal training backgrounds have allowed their creative programming to shine in this social setting. As the overhead lights were dimmed, the club lights were turned on and class began, I found myself already bouncing to the first song that played loudly over the speakers. Stacey warmed us up quickly with light jumps and stretches and then we began to work through each song’s own intense mini-routine. We bounced our way through exercises like kicks,

squats, high-knees, high-jumps, suicide runs, side twists, jumping jacks, weighted arm movements and more, all while moving along to the highs and lows of the perfect playlist blaring above. Unlike leisure play on a typical trampoline, you aren’t looking to bounce as high as you can while doing fun tricks to impress your friends or kids (while not killing yourself, your friends or your kids). With Jounce, fancy acrobatics is not the end goal. Instead, imagine a ceiling closely hovering over your head so that you are using your lower half to accelerate and decelerate your entire body rapidly through the ‘floor’ while performing various moves. In the words of Ice Cube, “You can do it, put your back into it.”

Aside from the fact that I sweat for an hour, listened to really great music and mixed up my routine with something fun and energetic, I appreciated a self-paced workout that is so highly leg-concentrated with little impact on my joints (thank you, G-force). For all the leg pounding, jumping, kicking and jouncing we did, nothing hurt. Except my ass, two days later, but that hurt so good. I’m glad I went back on my motherhood promise and I’ll definitely be back to Jounce again soon… and will maybe bring donuts.

5K, will be held on May 3, and is sure to bring another 4,000+ racers to the streets of the city. Join this fun family affair as you cheer on the men and women determined to conquer the course (and maybe a beer

or two later). rhoderaces.com

for its fifth year, boast 3+ miles and 25+ obstacles of challenging fun for all ages. Test your fitness limits while getting a little dirty and open beach season with a running start. boldrdashrace.com

Jounce Fitness 115 Harris Avenue 255-6700 jouncefitness.com

FIT NEWS Run For It It’s marathon time in downtown Providence again. The seventh annual Cox Providence Rhode Races, including the marathon, half-marathon, kids race and

Providence Monthly | May 2015

Dash Through the Sand It’s back and it’s better than ever. On May 2, BoldrDash on Scarborough Beach will,

Photography by Amy Amerantes

After I had children, I made three promises to myself: never base a haircut on emotion, always allow donuts in your life and make trampolines (or other activities that involved bouncing up and down in the same place) a thing of the past. For quite some time, I held onto these oaths, but as I’ve moved through the years, I have become distracted. By small, round shiny objects. That I want to jump on. In what looks like a super fun fitness class inside of a nightclub. I’m going back on my word. I have decided to let trampolines back into my life so that I can Jounce. Jounce, a word born from jump and bounce, is a re-branded trampolinebased full-body workout that incorporates light weights, sprints, high knees, squats, kickboxing, abs and more. Once referred to as “rebounding,” NASA originally developed the exercise back in the 1980s after a study showed it increased oxygenation to the body’s cells. Because of the temporary equal exposure to Gforce on all parts of our bodies as we jump up and down, it was determined to have a bigger full-body benefit with less oxygen, heart exertion and pressure or impact on just one specific area. The up and down motion of jouncing has numerous benefits, ranging from an improved lymphatic system to an increase in cellular energy and function to greater weight and body fat loss than other forms of exercise. It has even been used in athletic training, rehab programs and now fitness clubs and gyms. Located directly inside a downtown nightclub, the atmosphere lends dance floor LED and disco ball lighting and a state-of-the-art music-filled room as the best remixes of Top 40, House and HipHop motivate every jump, sweat and smile throughout the hour. Sisters/owners Stacey Liakos and Jennifer Caputi opened Jounce back in March after having imagined some type of fitness class

Unique City living with historic charm

HIGHLIGHTS OF AmenITIeS

Units now AvAilAble

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255 Promenade Street, Providence • 401.944.2442 • promenadeprov.com May 2015 | Providence Monthly

Providence Monthly | May 2015

City Style |

Shop Talk

Real Estate

By Claire Flanagan

Collaborative We Help You Sell Your House. We Help You Buy A Home. We Love What We Do.

Call Us Today!

The Vault Collective on Westminster Street

Old is New Again (Again)

Rebecca Mayer 401.447.8040

The Vault Collective pop-up shop keeps vintage downtown

Photography by Terace Greene

A pop-up shop

on Westminster gets an extended stay, and boy is this good news for vintage lovers. The Vault Collective, a coming-together of eight at-home Providence-based vintage collectors that opened in October, just promised shoppers another six months at its storefront. So now there’s even more time to explore the beautiful array of vintage clothes, shoes, jewelry, handbags and trinkets. Owner and collector behind the brand Gypsy Vintage & Designer, Ruth Meteer, explains how she previously worked out of a small office space with a few other collectors and held private shopping parties before she was approached by Buff Chace and Joanna Levitt of Cornish Associates to do a popup shop in a recently vacated space on Westminster. She gathered together seven other dealers to fill the space. All the featured vendors are local, home-based businesses that you may recognize from craft markets, block parties and other area events, like Gypsy Vintage & Designer, Mardy Stark, Gold Dust Vintage and Uptown Vinyl & Men’s to name a few. After the store experienced a successful first few months, they got an extension to their lease and the space will continue to be The Vault Collective until August. The store is organized so that each collector has their own showcase space,

making it almost like eight different stores in one. Each has its own aesthetic, so there really is something for everyone’s style. Wandering through each booth was like going back in time – I wished that I could stay and look through the pieces forever. “It’s all vintage. We have everything from the late 1800s to the early 1990s, so a little bit of everything,” says Ruth. “And price-wise we have everything from $18 blouses to high-end designer dresses, Chanel and things like that.” The Vault is not like your typical consignment shop, however – it’s entirely collection-based, so they don’t take donations. All of the items in the shop come solely from the dealings and collecting of the eight featured vendors, focusing on the different styles and tastes of each. “For most of the dealers here, this is their first time with a real, steady, open-every-day storefront space,” Ruth explains. “Some of them are moms and some of them have other full time jobs, and their business has been something that they’ve run on the side, so this is a really unique way for them to move forward with their businesses.” Ruth goes on to say how exciting it is for all the vendors to come together in a single space as they’ve been working sideby-side at the same markets for years. “Everyone’s really open to working together and trying new things,” she says.

The extended stay brings the excitement of new merchandise, namely spring and summer styles, like some newly featured prom dresses. Check out The Vault’s website for profiles on the different vintage sellers featured and more information about the collective, or wander through the store at your own leisure to find something timeless to upgrade your closet or home.

David Hasslinger

401.465.8625

B eth Mazor 508.878.3929

Ruth Meteer

The Vault Collective 235 Westminster Street 250-2587 thevaultri.com May 2015 | Providence Monthly

City Style |

Beauty

By Julie Tremaine

A Spa Staycation

Local, natural beauty at a chic Newport hotel

Providence Monthly | May 2015

posh yet comfortable feel as the rest of the property. Michele Bundy greeted me, then gave me a tour of the massage and facial rooms, both of which have ocean views. I explained my skin concerns to her – that I was in need of a seasonal exfoliation - but since Michele has been working for Farmaesthetics for a decade, she didn’t exactly need me to explain that. She decided on a treatment focusing on deep exfoliation and deeper moisture; I closed my eyes and indulged the rest of my senses for the next hour. Besides being natural and local, the really nice thing about Farmaesthetics is that the products have multiple uses. That cleanser I use takes off makeup, can be used as a face or body wash, and is perfect for little bodies, too. Michele started with that same cleanser, and then used Eyebright Eye Makeup Remover & Treatment Oil, the active ingredient of which, the eyebright herb, relaxes the ocular nerve and reduces the overall eye strain of working on a computer. (What a relief to come home after a long day and have an herbal treatment to undo all of that squinting you do at a screen all day, right? That’s the best kind of wrinkle defense.) She then did a

deep exfoliation with Sweet Milk & Orange Peel Facial Exfoliate, which is a powder that you activate with the herbal cleanser and then paint on the skin to promote cell turnover. It works wonders. As that did its work, Michele massaged my arms and hands with Nourishing Lavender Milk, and then Midnight Honey Bath & Beauty Oil. After exfoliating, she refreshed my face with Pure Complexion Tonic, and applied a mask of Nourishing Herbal Cream. I was surprised, because that cream is my daily eye cream, but Michele explained that a thick coat left to do its work for a few minutes can easily function as a deeply hydrating face mask. After I was cleaned and polished, she applied Lip Softener and a spritz of a Rose Classic Water for an aromatherapeutic final step. I felt so refreshed afterwards: not just my face, but my whole mental outlook. It was the perfect one-hour vacation.

The Retreat at Castle Hill 590 Ocean Avenue, Newport 888-466-1355 farmaesthetics.com

Illustration by Lia Marcoux

It isn’t news to anyone who survived the last six months in Rhode Island that it was a long, brutal, endless winter. While everyone is completely tired of talking about how terrible the cold season was this year, my skin quite hadn’t gotten that memo. It was still clinging to its winter texture: dry and flaky, with that particular change-ofseason shedding that’s at once gross and a promise of warmer seasons ahead. Definitely not ready for the dewy, pretty pink makeup of spring. This long frozen stretch had also left me deprived of something else: the mental and physical renewal that comes from a day at the shore. I don’t know about you, but I start to breathe differently the second that I drive over the Jamestown Bridge. No matter what season, it reminds me of warm ocean breezes, of cocktails on decks overlooking Newport Harbor, of soaking in every minute of summer sun. (Note: this was my trick to surviving this winter. Newport in the off-season is arguably better than when it’s full of tourists, beach weather or no.) Feeling claustrophobic in Providence, and in need of a new face for a new season, I headed down to Newport for an excursion at The Retreat, Farmaesthetics’ new treatment space at Castle Hill. I’ve long been a fan of Farmaesthetics, the natural beauty company based in Portsmouth. The idea of using locally made, high-quality spa products that are made using the minimum number of ingredients, and all natural ones at that, is incredibly appealing. The brand has been so successful that it’s now in five star hotels all over the world and all of the major beauty magazines, but it’s still made right here in Rhode Island. Their incredible smelling Fine Herbal Cleanser – made simply of geranium and lavender in a base of witch hazel and glycerin – is already a fixture in my morning routine, so I was expecting good things of the 60-minute facial I was about to receive. I definitely wasn’t disappointed. The first floor of Castle Hill is a fine dining restaurant (that opens up onto The Lawn, dotted with Adirondack chairs, which is my hands-down favorite cocktails-by-the-water spot). The new Retreat space is upstairs among the guest rooms, and has the same

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May 2015 | Providence Monthly

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CELEBRATING CINCO DE MAYO SINCE 1973! 44

Providence Monthly | May 2015

historic

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Experience Our Shops Big & Small, Restaurants, Entertainment, Nightlife & More

squires saLon

pLeasanT surprise

252 Thayer Street | 421-1010 Find us on Facebook

50 Park Row West | 274-5660 squiressalon.com

297 Thayer Street | 273-1202 pleasant-surprise.com

Attractively priced dorm furnishings, eclectic fashions, exotic gifts, ready-toeat Indian entrees and more... also henna tattoos, henna parties, tarot and astrological readings all by appointment.

Squires Salon has temporarily relocated to the Moderne Salon, at Center Place, 50 Park Row West, Providence 02903. We will soon be returning to our new location at 172 E. Cushing Street across from the Nelson Fitness Center.

Pleasant Surprise has everything you will need to make your mom feel special on Mother’s Day. From cards, books, mugs, pillows and much more. One stop shopping for mom. Pleasant Surprise has you covered!

at ThayerStreetDMA ThayerStreetDistrict.com

What’s happening

Thayer Street neighBOR DaY BLOCK paRtY Thayer Street will be closed Cushing to Angell

pie in The sky

kaBoB and Curry

FLaTBread Company

225 Thayer Street | 861-3954 Find us on Facebook

261 Thayer Street | 273-8844 indianrestaurantsri.com

161 Cushing Street | 273-2737 flatbreadcompany.com

Whether it’s an intricate carved bangle from Mexico or a lovely amber pendant from Poland , Mom deserves the best!

“Arguably the best Indian food in Rhode Island.” – Providence Journal, Live. Come in and see why this award-winning restaurant continues its tradition of excellence that started on Thayer 27 years ago.

Rock. Wood. Fire. Clay. Ash. Crisp. Stoke. Care. Friends. Thirst. Flavor. Smoke. Organic. Passion. Sweet. Sourcing. Maple. Friendly. To Bake and Serve. Real. Providence. Wood-fired Love.

May 16th, 12-6pm Live Bands, Beer Garden & More! Sponsored by: Narragansett Beer, WBRU & Thayer Street District Management Authority

•••

governor henry Lippitt house 150th anniversary Celebration JUNE 28th Watch for details.

•••

Ride your bike to thayer street and saVe!

FaCing Thayer BeauTy spa & BouTique 297 Thayer Street | 331-4777 facingthayer.com Offering luxurious facials, waxing, nail, & eyelash services and selling 25 different beauty lines, this is one spot you shouldn’t miss! Voted Best Day Spa.

eF Bishop group 217 Angell Street | 421-3210 efbishop.com Providing insurance & real estate solutions since 1965. Your Independent Agents representing your needs with many different companies to choose from. Real estate sales and rentals throughout RI.

BeTTer Burger Company 215-217 Thayer Street | 228-7373 bbcfoodusa.com Organic grass-fed burgers, gluten-free options, homemade sauces and fries cooked in olive oil. Breakfast served until 3pm daily. Real fruit sodas. Vegan and vegetarian options also available.

Bike Benefit Stickers are FREE! Bring in your helmet to one of these 4 locations to get one: What Cheer Records + Vintage, PIE IN THE SKY, NOW Yoga and Fitness and 257 Thayer. Save at the 20 locations. For Details: ThayerStreetDistrict.com

Berks shoes & CLoThing

andrea’s

272 Thayer Street | 831-0174 Find us on Facebook

268 Thayer Street | 331-7879 andreasri.com

It’s time to think Spring with a new pair of Sperry’s or Eric Michael shoes! All brands of stylish footwear for men and women, plus clothing and accessories. On Thayer for over 40 years!

Providence’s original Greek restaurant, serving authentic, homestyle recipes on Thayer Street for over 35 years. Try the chicken and lamb kabobs, lemon oregano lamb chops and souvlaki!

2nd Time around 294 Thayer Street | 455-2050 secondtimearound.net New and like-new designer consignment. From Tory Burch & Michael Kors to Chanel & Louis Vuitton, shop the best designer labels without the designer price tag!

A Providence Original

A neighborhood brasserie serving affordable four-star comfort food with casual finesse.

Fine dining for the discerning palate, featuring local & seasonal ingredients, served impeccably in an 18th century tavern setting.

101 N. Main Street • Providence millstavernrestaurant.com 401.272.3331 Mon-Thurs. 5-1o p.m. Fri-Sat. 5-11 p.m. Sun 4-9 p.m.

465 Angell St • Wayland Sq. 401.437.6950

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redstriperestaurants.com Mon-Thurs. 11:30 a.m.-1o p.m. Fri-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Sun 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Feast

Photography by Stacey Doyle

IN THE KITCHEN / oN THE mENu / REvIEw / IN THE dRINK

Bites and Brews on Atwells Blackbird Farm RI Grass-Fed Burger

As the weather warms, Federal Hill blossoms like flowers in spring. One way to soak in the season is with a cold beer

and savory snack at the newest addition to Atwells â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Federal Taphouse & Kitchen. Turn the page to read our review.

May 2015 | Providence Monthly

Feast |

Review

By Stephanie Obodda

Pub Food Goes Gourmet

Stop by Federal Taphouse & Kitchen for beer, burgers and bites If you’re a frequent poutine eater, you will miss the cheese curds and the requisite dose of gravy. But take the name out of your mind, and the fries are tasty, with the nice addition of a shredded short rib topping. We also shared a Beef Short Rib Flatbread ($12). The bold flavors of Gorgonzola, mushrooms, roasted peppers, garlic aioli and scallions combined well. This “taphouse” has several draught beers, and there’s plenty at the bar to appease non-beer drinkers too. The beer list is a welcome addition to the wine-heavy restaurants on Atwells. There’s good local representation and a broad mix of styles. Two of us started with the Dogfish Head Aprihop and two with the Revival White Electric Coffee Stout (both $8/16oz). Beers are available in 16 and 20-ounce sizes, or as a flight. For our entrees, two of us decided to split burgers. I ordered the Blackbird Farm RI Grass Fed Burger ($14). Made from grass fed beef from Smithfield’s Blackbird Farm, this burger

Tempura mozzarella and Prosciutto Balls

was topped with maple pepper bacon, organic local mushrooms and Gruyere cheese. The patty was substantial and

Fig & Arugula Flatbread

a perfect medium rare as requested, and the ingredients showcased the quality meat. I upgraded my fries to the house cut French Fries with Truffle and Parmesan ($8 when ordered as a side). I traded half of my burger for my friend’s Alaskan Salmon Burger ($12). The generous piece of salmon was garnished with pickles, arugula, caper aioli and onion. Like my burger, this was served on a buttery, glossy brioche bun. We agreed that both burgers were winners. Another friend tried the New England Lobster Roll ($19), hoping to find an indoor equivalent while it’s still too cold for a clam shack visit. She was pleasantly surprised. The lobster was generous and had a mix of chopped tail and claw meat. My husband had the FTK Chicken and Waffles ($19). A dark wooden plate was laid with four pieces of fried chicken, four quarters of a large round buttermilk waffle, a hefty mound of braised greens and a gravy boat of syrup.

ONE MORE BITE: Federal Taphouse and Kitchen features weeknight specials. Wednesday's deal: $5 beer flights and $2 sliders, a sure win at a restaurant with good burgers and beer. 48

Providence Monthly | May 2015

Photography by Stacey Doyle

We’ll soon be coming upon the perfect weather to sit outside on Atwells, watch couples strut to fancy dinners and gawk as valets park Lamborghinis. In preparation, we tried a relative newcomer to the street, Federal Taphouse & Kitchen. As was its predecessor, Providence Prime, Federal Taphouse is connected to the adjacent Providence Oyster Bar, allowing seafood lovers the opportunity to order from the Oyster Bar’s raw bar. Tempted by the dollar oyster specials, we headed out early for “Appy Hour,” which runs from 3-6pm daily. Unfortunately, specials are only available at the packed bar, and our party wasn’t feeling like a crowd. Next time! Instead, we were seated at a table and decided to check out some of the appetizers on the regular menu. We started with the Southern Style Fried Pickles ($7) and the Poutine ($10). The pickles were well and freshly fried, with an addictively spicy chipotle aioli. The Poutine would have hit the mark if it had not been called poutine, but short rib cheddar fries.

HAVE YOU BEEN YET?

INTO THE WOODS APRIL 29 – MAY 23 Once upon a time…from storybook to stage to screen to OST! This Sondheim musical is most charming.

For tickets, call 401.921.6800 or visit OceanStateTheatre.org

SEASON SPONSOR

1245 JEFFERSON BOULEVARD, WARWICK Professional theatre with a personal touch

Now cateriNg!

Fine Thai and SuShi ReSTauRanT Way l a n d S q u a r e 18 South Angell Street, Providence • 383-8830 • www.limsri.com Tues-Thurs 11:30-10pm• Friday & Sat 11:30-10:30pm • Sunday 12-9:30pm

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Two of us tried the Founders Backwoods Bastard ($7.50/8oz). It’s served in a small snifter because of the higher alcohol content (10.2%). It has a sweet, dark flavor with a hint of bourbon and is great for slow sipping or to pair with dessert. Our waitress, Danielle, was attentive and cheerful. She was even able to talk us into sharing a dessert – a peach and blueberry crumble with a macadamia topping and a scoop of vanilla ice cream ($7). This skillet dessert was definitely big enough to share and the

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two fruits married well. Federal Taphouse and Kitchen is a good choice for happy hour snacks and drinks on Atwells. It’s casual and friendly, and the food is more thoughtful than typical bar fare.

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May 2015 | Providence Monthly

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Feast |

In the Kitchen

By Grace Lentini

Mister Sister Breakfast of Champions For the chef at T's, food is about family Erotica

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Providence Monthly | May 2015

Anthony Tomaselli parents founded T’s Restaurant the year before he was born, in 1982. There’s even a picture in the restaurant of his mom (Tina) holding him while taking care of customers when he was a baby. When he was six, his parents would pick him up from school and return to the restaurant. He would grab a snack and head to the counter to do homework. By the age of 14, he was bussing tables and washing dishes. By 16, he was serving guests and cooking in the kitchen. His first food mentor, aside from his parents, was a 19-year-old named Marco that cooked for T’s. Marco loved food and taught Anthony to respect food. He made him see food in a special way.

Chef Anthony Tomaselli

Tell me more about your journey to becoming the executive chef at T’s Restaurant. When I was attending Providence Country Day (PCD) for high school, I involved myself in an internship program my senior year. I was able to do my internship at Napa Valley Grille in Providence. The chef there was great, very encouraging and inspiring. He shared the creative possibility of food. After PCD, I headed to Johnson & Wales where I stayed for a short time. I was restless and felt the desire to get in and do the job, so I left and was hired by the Papa Razzi Group in Cranston. The chef there was a nice guy who had a natural gift for teaching. I find that restaurants are filled with great people who love to connect, and if you listen, are very willing to share their experiences with you. You must have a passion for breakfast, brunch and lunch. I love breakfast, brunch and lunch and I love T’s. I love the team camaraderie of the kitchens, I love the speed of the day, the traditional and trendy menu development and the goal to always be our best. That challenges me to want to do better and to learn more. T's is about team. We all do this together. No one person is greater than the team. What specials do you look forward to each season? In the spring we like to focus on the goodness of the egg. This year springtime brought the Taste of Verona Eggs Benedict. It has freshly baked focaccia topped with whipped cream cheese, sliced Roma tomatoes, prosciutto, two 2/11/70, 5:54 PM

poached eggs, Hollandaise and freshly chopped scallions. Summer in New England must include lobster, and T's Bacon Lobster Tomato Panini is a must have. It has smoked bacon, freshly sliced tomato and sautéed lobster sandwiched between two pieces of Texas-style bread, grilled panini-style, and finished with an herbed aioli. And of course, chowder. We have white and corn. Autumn at T's wouldn't be autumn without Pumpkin Pancakes: Three pumpkin pancakes finished with pumpkin butter and a dollop of whipped cream. For winter a must-try is the Fireside Omelet. It’s a jumbo omelet stuffed with roasted red pepper, ricotta cheese, juicy Italian sausage, caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms and melted American cheese. I understand you’ve been able to incorporate a lot of gluten-free options into your menu. Gluten-free options for breakfast include all omelets, eggs Benedicts (on Udi's bread), from-scratch oatmeal, and yogurt and fruit parfait. Pretty much any egg dish can be done with Udi's toast with sides of fresh fruit or baked cinnamon apples instead of home fries. For lunch, salads are abundant and Udi’s bread can be used on any sandwich. Have you ever had a specialty item make it onto the year-round menu? The Rose Window Waffle is a T’s favorite that started on a special menu. Years back, we were running what we called a Sweet Berry Waffle as a special. Local artist Maxwell Mays ordered it and exclaimed “A Rose Window.” Hence, the Rose

Window Waffle. That was 2005 and today, that waffle is still a T’s favorite. Do you have any special dishes lined up for Mother’s Day? Moms love mimosas and waffles. Mother’s Day will feature the Berry-Berry Sweet Cream Ricotta Waffle. It’s a blueberry Belgian waffle topped with fresh blueberries and strawberries, glazed walnuts, sweet berry ricotta and a drizzle of sweet raspberry sauce. Wash it all down with our featured blueberry mimosa. What is the quintessential meal at T’s from beginning to end? Our best breakfast would be the Bacon Lovers Eggs Benedict: Three types of bacon, served on three English muffins, topped with three poached eggs and smothered in Hollandaise sauce. Follow this up with T’s Ooey Gooey French Toast. It is glazed cinnamon roll French toast, served with hickory bacon and maple syrup. Of course all this yumminess can be complemented with a mimosa and organic coffee. On the lunch side, what's better than a simmering cup of creamy tomato soup with a grilled cheese sandwich? T’s over the top grilled cheese combines Swiss with brie cheese, diced Gala apples, melt-in-your-mouth sautéed onions and a touch of fig on Texas-style bread grilled golden.

T’s Restaurant 1059 Park Avenue Cranston 946-5900 tsrestaurantri.com

Photo by Tony Pacitti

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May 2015 | Providence Monthly

Providence Monthly | May 2015

Feast |

on the menu

Vintage Bridal Jewelry

By Alastair Cairns

Feel Good Brew

Photography by Mike Braca

vanuatu Coffee Roasters takes fair trade to the next level With coffee blooming in Providence recently, it’s a wonder that it’s taken this long for Federal Hill to get in on the love. Opened in January, Vanuatu Coffee Roasters has set up on Atwell’s at the heart of the Hill, and are making it worth the wait. The back-story reads like a J Peterman catalog. James Lappin, software engineer by necessity world traveler by heart, was eclipse-chasing in the warm Southwestern Pacific breezes of Fiji. Intrigued by the volcanic Republic of Vanuatu, which had recently been featured on Survivor, he went on a whim. Searching for adventure, he instead found amazing coffee and, after negotiating with ten different chiefs, had a 30acre investment. James began home-roasting the coffee and sending it to loved ones, like his sister, and co-owner Martha Soderland. She was so impressed by the taste that she encouraged him to return to Providence and start something up, and said she’d take a leave of absence from teaching to get it off the ground. James took a master-roasting course in Germany, and Martha began to search for a location. When the preexisting Nancy’s Fancies fell victim to the great cupcake cull of the 2010s, pics were sent, flights were booked and James and Martha snatched up the place. Vanuatu Coffee Roasters is the only place in the US to get green beans from Tanna Island for roasting. However, while taste was persuasive for James and Martha, it was what they saw when they visited Vanuatu that really made the sale. The INIK cooperative of farmers functions to look after the needs of growers, with standards that well exceed fair trade standards. The coop has improved production, minimized waste and maximized profits for farmers, creating a boutique coffee industry without depending on foreign aid. Martha says the results can be seen on the ground, with many teenagers who were leaving the island for Australia now staying due to the economic opportunity, good for both business and their vibrant culture. This is a model for ethical and sustainable production that’s in stark contrast with much of the industry. Coffee growers are some of the most exploited farmers in the world, sometimes selling coffee at a loss, while at the end of the supply chain their delicious beans cost us $15 a pound or more in our upmarket

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coffee shops. Flavor notes are exhaustive, while sourcing information and labor conditions are often somewhat vague. What you get with those subtle overtones of elderberry is sometimes an almost undetectable lingering finish of distant poverty. Not so at Vanuatu Coffee Roasters, so buy with a clear conscience or buy because it’s delicious, either way the result is the same. After a brutal winter, Martha says it’s “slow and steady wins the race” with increasing regulars hogging the front leather easy chairs in the sleek but cozy interior. Looking forward to warmer weather, Vanuatu has rolled out their cold brew, “The Rhody,” and is looking to extend hours in the summer. Currently they are open Tuesday through Saturday, 8am-4pm. 294 Atwells Ave. 2731586, vanuatucoffeeroasters.com. Hope Street Farmer’s Market Celebrates 25 Years Hope Street Farmer's Market kicks off its 25th year in style on Saturday, May 16 from 9am to 1pm, with Mayor Elorza celebrating the milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. For those preferring pie to politicians, the market has added several vendors to its strong lineup, including Humble Pie, the phenomenal lamb of Hopkins Southdown, and like the angel and devil on either shoulder, Fully Rooted Raw Cold Pressed Juices and Tricycle Ice Cream. Food trucks will rotate in and out, as

well as monthly guest vendors. The Wednesday market opens the following Wednesday, May 20 from 3-6pm. Lippitt Park. hopestreetmarket.com Dine Out to Fight AIDS Dine Out for Life returns on Thursday, April 30. Dine out at a participating restaurant on April 30 with some friends, and a percentage of your check goes to AIDS Project Rhode Island as part of a nationwide campaign that raises over $4 million a year. AIDS Project Rhode Island is a non-profit working for over 30 years for prevention and education, as well as case management support services for those in Rhode Island living with HIV or AIDS. diningoutforlife.com/providence. Ten Rocks: a Cape Verdean Infusion Cape Verdean culture is writ large on the history of Providence, and 10 Rocks Tapas Bar, newly opened on April 10, can give you a taste of it. Their menu promises modern tapas infused with Verdean flair in colorful and bold dishes. The cocktail list is perfect as we head into warmer weather and promises flights of traditional Verdean ponches – cocktails based on artisanal sugarcane liquor. Live music will be bouncing around the amazing interior. 1091 Main Street, Pawtucket. 728-0800, twitter.com/tenrockslounge Send all food, beverage, restaurant and chef news to alastairjcairns@gmail.com

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May 2015 | Providence Monthly

Feast |

In the drink

By Emily Dietsch

Here’s the Shrub A mixer worth trying at Cook & Brown Doughboys & ChowDer house

Blackberry, Raspberry and Thyme Shrub

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A shrub takes time and effort, but the investment rewards in taste and lasting power. Plus, it’s virtually idiot-proof and endlessly versatile. “Once you test the waters with one combination,” Gillian says, “you can have a lot of fun experimenting with the produce, herbs, types of sugar and types of vinegars.”

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Forget Prohibition-era revivals. They’re so early-2000s. Lately, bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts have taken to reaching even further back – way, way back – in their seemingly never-ending search for discarded gems. Sometimes that enterprise is vainglorious, prizing the esoteric for esoteric’s sake. What, you’ve never sipped a cocktail made with a Franciscan monk’s tears? For shame. Other times, though, the revival is more grounded, unearthing common sense and clever preparations that should never have been lost. Take the shrub, for example. It’s a vinegar-laced drink base that originated over 500 years ago, as a method for giving seasonal produce legs far past the growing season. To wit, the lovely Gillian White of Cook & Brown created an herbal berry shrub for us, which evokes the greener pastures that were – and that will be again, soon. A note about nomenclature: The “shrub” itself is virgin for mixing into any type of libation... with or without booze. This being a probooze space, you can guess which we embraced.

Cook & Brown Public House 959 Hope Street 273-7275 cookandbrown.com

Providence Monthly | May 2015

1 cup raspberries 1 cup blackberries 1 cup sugar 1 cup apple cider vinegar 7-10 thyme sprigs (depending on how herbaceous you would like your shrub)

Combine berries and sugar in a bowl, and muddle until no visible sugar remains. Macerate in refrigerator overnight or up to one day. In a second bowl, mix thyme with vinegar, and refrigerate to bloom. After steeping of both is complete, line a mesh strainer with cheesecloth and strain each into the same container. Strain mixture again if seeds or solids linger. Pour shrub into clean jar. Shake to incorporate. Refrigerate and use within 5-7 days. A Gin & Tonic with house-made shrub Gin is a spring and summer staple, and is a natural match for Gillian’s berry-thyme shrub. • 1 ½ oz Plymouth gin • ½ oz shrub • Tonic water Mix the gin and shrub in a tall glass with ice, and top with tonic. Stir to blend. Gin-Berry Gimlet Gillian recommends adding a little simple syrup for those who like drinks on the sweeter side. Purists, however, will be blown away by how complex a two-ingredient cocktail can be. • 2 oz gin • 1 ½ oz shrub Combine in a tumbler with ice, shake, strain into a coupe – and sip.

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May 2015 | Providence Monthly

RHODY BITES A Sponsored Statewide Dining Guide

view our full Restaurant Profiles on RhodyBites.com

Clean Plate Downtown’s new local installment of the popular New York eatery, Clean Plate, offers a menu full of delicious comfort foods and exciting entrees. Start your morning with their Brioche French Toast Sandwich, which is scrambled eggs, ham and cheese packed between two pieces of tasty French toast, or a Breakfast Taco: frybread filled with sizzling bacon and eggs, as well as cheese and salsa. If you’re not much of a morning person, no need to fret, Clean Plate’s later brunch menu includes items like “The Benny,” which is poached eggs on a corned beef hash waffle with Hollandaise. There are also signature burgers to choose from, like their Turkey Burger with avocado crema, or the Black Bean

Quinoa Burger with tomato vinaigrette. Groups can enjoy a meal together at Clean Plate; their list of larger made-forsharing plates includes Crab Wontons and Stuffies. Sandwiches range from the classic “Crusty”, a BLT with fresh mozzarella on French bread, to the “Puccini,” which is grilled sausage and garlicky escarole on French bread and there are plenty of fresh, healthy salad options. Those with an intrigued palate will be delighted to try exciting entrees like the Poutine Pizza: grilled pizza topped with pulled pork, French fries, cheese and gravy. Come hungry and leave happy; don’t forget to treat yourself to their NY Crumbcake or Peanut Butter Pie before you go!

Can’t miss dish: Their signature burger – a succulent blend of short rib, brisket and chuck with Fontina and onion strings

10 Prime Steak & Sushi Gourmet steaks and sushi. 55 Pine St, Providence, 4532333. LD $$$ 2 Pauls’ City Grille Comfort food with a family feel. 315 Waterman Ave, East Providence, 228-7285. BrLD $-$$ Andreas Authentic Greek food since 1966. 268 Thayer St, Providence, 3317879. BrLD $-$$ Aspire Seasonal Kitchen Contemporary New England fare. 311 Westminster St, Providence, 521-3333. BBrLD $$-$$$ Besos Kitchen & Cocktails Tapas and eclectic cuisine and cocktails. 378 Main St, East Greenwich, 398-8855. BrLD $$$ Black Bass Grille Classic seafood, historic waterfront setting. 3 Water St, South Dartmouth, 508-999-6975. LD $$ Breachway Grill Classic New England fare, plus NY-style pizza. 1 Charlestown

Beach Rd, Charlestown, 213-6615. LD $$ CAV Eclectic cuisine and art in a historic setting. 14 Imperial Place, Providence, 751-9164. BrLD $$-$$$ Centro Restaurant & Lounge Contemporary cuisine and cocktails. 1 W Exchange St, Providence, 228-6802. BLD $$$ Chapel Grille Gourmet food overlooking the Providence skyline. 100 Chapel View Blvd, Cranston, 944-4900. BrLD $$$ Clean Plate Delicious comfort food in a casual setting. 345 S. Water Street, Providence, 621-8888. BBrLD $$ DeWolf Tavern Gourmet American/Indian fusion. 259 Thames St, Bristol, 2542005. BLD $$-$$$ DiMare Seafood Fresh seafood restaurant and market. 2706 South County Trail, East Greenwich, 885-8100. LD $$-$$$

Clean Plate

Dragon Palace Fresh sushi and Asian cuisine. 733 Kingstown Rd, Wakefield, 7892308. LD $-$$

Julian’s A must taste Providence staple celebrating 20 years. 318 Broadway, Providence, 861-1770. BBrLD $$

Eleven Forty Nine City sophistication in the suburbs. 1149 Division St, Warwick, 884-1149. LD $$$

Kartabar Mediterranean-style cuisine, chic setting. 284 Thayer St, Providence, 331-8111. LD $-$$

Enn Japanese Creative sushi and Japanese food. 600 George Washington Hgwy, Lincoln, 333-0366. LD $$

KitchenBar Contemporary comfort cuisine. 771 Hope Street, Providence, 3314100. BrLD $$

Fieldstones Relaxed family setting, something for everyone. 980 E Main Rd, Portsmouth, 293-5200. LD $$

Laurel Lane Country Club Upscale pub cuisine overlooking a picturesque golf course. 309 Laurel Lane, West Kingston, 783-3844 LD $ - $$

Flatbread Company Artisanal pizza, local ingredients. 161 Cushing St, Providence, 273-2737. LD $-$$ Iggy’s Doughboys & Chowder House Classic clam shack fare, plus famous doughboys. 889 Oakland Beach Ave, Warwick, 737-9459; 1157 Point Judith Rd, Narragansett, 7835608. LD $

Lim’s Restaurant Upscale Thai and fresh sushi. 18 South Angell St, Providence, 383-8830. LD $$ Lobster Pot Serving traditional New England classics and seafood. 119 Hope St, Bristol, 253-9100 BrLD $$-$$$ Luxe Burger Bar Build your own creative

Key: B breakfast Br brunch L lunch d dinner $ under 10 $$ 10–20 $$$ 20+ 56

Providence Monthly | May 2015

Photography by Stacey Doyle

345 South Water Street, Providence • 401-621-8888

burger. 5 Memorial Blvd, Providence, 6215893. LD $ Mariner Grille Creative seafood, pub atmosphere. 140 Point Judith Rd, Narragansett, 284-3282. LD $$ McBlarney’s County Tap Modern, upscale pub with daily specials. 632 Metacom Ave, Warren, 289-0887. LD $$ McBride’s Pub Traditional Irish pub fare in Wayland Square. 161 Wayland Ave, Providence, 751-3000. LD $$ Meeting Street Cafe Huge sandwiches and cookies. 220 Meeting St, Providence, 273-0166. BLD $

Parkside Rotisserie & Bar American bistro specializing in rotisserie meats. 76 South Main St, Providence, 331-0003. LD $-$$

Scampi Seafood and Italian cuisine with expansive water views. 657 Park Ave, Portsmouth, 293-5844. LD $$

The Sea Goose Seafood with New England and Southern flair. 265 Post Rd, Westerly, 315-0788. LD $$-$$$

Pavilion Steakhouse & Banquets Grand, banquet-hall style dining. 15A Frontier Rd, Hopkinton, 377-9900. BrLD $$$

Seasons Fine dining at the Ocean House. 1 Bluff Ave, Westerly, 5847000. BLD $$$

The Twisted Vine Romantic wine bar with tapas and full meals. 3 Canal St, Westerly, 596-4600. D $$

Siena Impeccable Italian cuisine. Locations in Providence, East Greenwich, Smithfield. D $$-$$$

The Village Casual dining and live entertainment. 373 Richmond Street, Providence, 228-7222. BrLD $$

Simone’s Gourmet brunch followed by upscale Mediterranean cuisine. 275 Child St, Warren, 247-1200. BBrLD $$-$$$

Trinity Brewhouse Rhode Island’s original brewpub. 186 Fountain St, Providence, 453-2337 LD $-$$

Phil’s Main Street Grille Classic comfort food; great rooftop patio. 323 Main St, Wakefield, 783-4073. BBrLD $ PJ’s Pub Mediterranean-influenced pub food. 135 Boone St, Narragansett. 789-3200. LD $-$$

T’s Restaurant Plentiful breakfast and lunch. Locations in Cranston, East Greenwich, Narragansett, 9465900. BL $

UMelt Fun twists on grilled cheese. Providence and Kingston, 383-6732. LD $

Mews Tavern Family dining, with a whiskey bar. 456 Main St, Wakefield, 7839370. LD $-$$

Portsmouth Publick House Gourmet pub food with a variety of spirit flights. 1 King Charles Dr, Portsmouth. 682-2600. BrLD $-$$

Mia’s Prime Time Café Upscale café cuisine by the Pawcatuck River. 1 West Broad Street, Pawcatuck, CT, 860-5993840. BLD $$

Public Kitchen & Bar American food with changing daily inspirations. 120 Francis St, Providence, 919-5050. BrLD $-$$

Mile & a Quarter Eclectic cuisine and wine bar. 334 South Water St, Providence, 331-1500. LD $-$$

Rasa Authentic and contemporary Indian. 149 Main St, East Greenwich, 398-2822. LD $$

Mill’s Tavern Historic setting for New American gourmet. 101 N Main St, Providence, 272-3331. D $$$

Rasoi Vegetarian-friendly Indian cuisine. 727 East Ave, Pawtucket, 7285500. LD $$

The Coast Guard House Modern New England Fare with Bay views. 40 Ocean Rd, Narragansett. 789-0700. LD $$-$$$

Wes’ Rib House Missouri-style BBQ, open late. 38 Dike St, Providence, 421-9090. LD $$

Nonni’s Italian Restaurant Traditional Italian eatery and pasta shop. 1154 Stafford Rd, Tiverton, 624-3087. LD $$

Red Stripe Casual French-American bistro. 465 Angell St, Providence, 437-6950. BrLD $$

The Dorrance Fine dining with exquisite cocktails. 60 Dorrance St, Providence, 521-6000. D $$$

Whiskey Republic Delicious dockside pub fare. 515 South Water St, Providence, 588-5158. LD $-$$

Oceanside at the Pier New England fare overlooking the Atlantic. 1 Beach St, Narragansett, 792-3999. BrLD $$

Rick’s Roadhouse House-smoked barbecue. 370 Richmond St, Providence, 272-7675. LD $-$$

The Malted Barley Gourmet pretzels and craft brews. 42 High St, Westerly, 315-2184. $

XO Cafe Creative cocktails and New American fare. 125 N Main St, Providence, 273-9090. BrD $$

Paragon & Viva Contemporary dining and nightlife. 234 Thayer St, Providence, 331-6200. BrLD $-$$

Rue De L’Espoir American cooking with French soul. 99 Hope St, Providence, 751-8890. BBrLD $$

The Restaurant at Weekapaug Inn Quintessential New England fare. 25 Spray Rock Rd, Westerly, 322-0301. BLD $$$

Zooma Trattoria Fresh Italian cuisine using house-made pasta. 245 Atwells Ave, Providence, 383-2002. LD $$

Tara’s Tipperary Tavern Oceanside Irish-American pub fare. 907 Matunuck Beach Rd, Matunuck, 284-1901. BLD $ Tavern by the Sea Waterfront European/American bistro. 16 W Main St, Wickford, 294-5771. LD $$

Vetrano’s Ristorante & Pizzeria Italian cooking like grandma made. 130 Granite St, Westerly, 348-5050. LD $$ Vittoria’s NY Pizza Best pizza north of Manhattan. 224 Post Rd, Westerly, 322-1901. LD $-$$ Waterman Grille Riverfront New American dining. 4 Richmond Sq, Providence, 521-9229. BLD $$$

Worth The Drive:

Mews Tavern

Photography by Stacey Doyle

The Mews is one of those places that everyone goes to: whether it’s for a night out with friends or a relaxing dinner with the family. Along with offering the “Best Burger in South County” for 13 years, there is also a great selection of appetizers including fiery wings and comfort foods like the All Natural Rhody Shepherd’s Pie.

In addition to the spacious dining room, there are two separate bar areas: the original tavern, which is plastered with dollar bills from patrons over the years, and the upstairs Celtic Pub, where you can taste over 200 single malt Scotches. Almost as famous as the beer is the social scene at the Mews. Stop in and see what’s happening tonight.

Insider Tip: Join the Mews VIP Club to get 5% cash back on all your purposes, a free meal and drink on your birthday, and discounts on events. mews Tavern

For full restaurant profiles, go to RhodyBites.com

456 Main Street, Wakefield • 401-783-9870 @RhodyBites

facebook.com/RhodyBites

May 2015 | Providence Monthly

When you give a child a book, her whole world changes. Did you know that 60% of children from low-income families live in homes without books? You can help. Join a statewide effort lead by United Way of Rhode Island and Books are Wings to support summer learning and promote reading.

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3/23/15 2:54 PM

Watch local artists create new work & bid to purchase!

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Wine Tasting, Cheese Pairings, Food & Live Music by Wheeler Jazz students food and beverages provided by:

Support a Great Cause all proceeds to benefit

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$40 per person in advance. $60 at the Door tickets can be purchased at, www.providencerotary.org

Providence Monthly | May 2015

6:00-9:00 pm

hosted by: Dryden Gallery at Providence Picture Frame 27 Dryden Lane, Providence, RI 02904 401.421.6196 a

s p e c i a l

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Get Out

EVENTS / ART / MUSIC / THEATRE

The Eat Drink RI Festival returns to whet our appetite

Good Eats 1.

Photo by Stacey Doyle

April 30: Indulge in delicious, locally sourced fare during the Eat Drink RI festival, a four-day extravaganza celebrating Rhode Island’s generous edible bounty. On Thursday April 30, the festival kicks off with Dinner by Dames. Then on Friday May 1, head to the Alex & Ani City Center and sample mobile treats at the Food Truck Stop. Saturday May 2, brings decadence at the Biltmore ballroom for a Grand Tasting of local products. Rounding out the weekend is the Grand Brunch, a breakfast-lunch fusion benefitting the Rhode Island Philharmonic Music School. eatdrinkri.com

May 1: As part of the Great Impression North American Tour 2015, Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox will tear up the stage at Lupo’s, performing current pop songs, oldies style. $25-$35. 8pm doors; 9pm show time. 79 Washington Street. 2725876, lupos.com.

May 2: Downtown Westminster will come alive for Aurora’s first ever Cinco de Mayo Block Party. With live music and entertainment spilling out into the street, you might even think you’re in Mexico. Check online for more information as the planning unfolds. 276 Westminster Street. auroraprovidence.com.

May 1-10: The hit off-Broadway comedy Old Jews Telling Jokes comes to Trinity Rep for a limited run. In addition to jokes, the show also includes comic songs and tributes to some comedy greats. $44-$64. 2pm & 7:30pm show times. 201 Washington Street. 351-4242, trinityrep.com.

May 2: Sample tequilas, mezcals and spirits from Mexico as well as rums from around the world at the New England Tequila and Rum Festival. Live entertainment, rum and tequila seminars, cooking demos and food pairings add to the fun. 2pm. 100 Twin River Road, Lincoln. 723-3200, twinriver.com.

May 2015 | Providence Monthly

Get Out |

Calendar

By Erin Balsa

This Month May 1: Bored with traditional theatre? See one-act plays and other student writing performed in unconventional spaces at Rhode Island College’s Creative Writer’s Festival. No tickets are necessary. Just show up ready to have some fun. Free. 8pm. 600 Mount Pleasant Avenue. 456-8000, ric.edu. May 1: Like Weezer? Duh, who doesn’t? Check out guitarist Brian Bell’s fourpiece band The Relationship at The Met. Formed in 2006 with members of The Bravery, U.S. Bombs and Die Hunns, the band plays “rock with more roll.” $12 advance; $15 day of. 8pm doors; 9pm show. 1005 Main Street, Pawtucket. 729-1005, themetri.com. May 1-23: Don’t miss Stephen Sondheim’s Tony Award-winning Into the Woods, a grown-up musical that melds together a host of fairytale characters. 2pm & 7:30pm. 1245 Jefferson Boulevard, Warwick. 921-6800, oceanstatetheatre.org. May 1-29: Every Friday evening it’s Friday Night Live at Everett Company Stage School. Veteran performers act alongside young up-and-comers to improvise on song, dance and skits that are appropriate for all ages. Prepare to laugh, cry, snort and wet your pants. $5. 7pm. 9 Duncan Avenue. 831-9479, everettri.org.

final manuscript that resulted from an experimental RISD course led by members of the New Delhi-based Raqs Media Collective. Free with admission. 20 North Main Street. 4546500, risdmuseum.org May 2-30: Saturdays bring 1670s Pawtucket: The Jenks Settlement, a guided and narrated one-mile walking tour. See the city from the perspective of an artisan settlement and learn about the importance of harnessing waterpower. $10. 11am-1pm. 67 Roosevelt Avenue, Pawtucket. 725-8638, slatermill.org. May 3: Tom Stoppard’s The Hard Problem centers on Hilary, a young psychology researcher at a brain institute who ponders the question: If there is nothing but matter, what is consciousness? If you’re looking to push your thinking to the next level, be sure to see this. 12:30pm. 260 Thayer Street. 421-0020, avoncinema.com. May 3: On the first Sunday of each month, from now ‘til forever, head downtown to AS220 for its Empire Revue, a night of sketch comedy, improv, live music, burlesque, magic, special guests and general devilment. $8. 8-11:30pm. 115 Empire Street. 831-9327, as220.org.

May 1-29: Get your java fix at the weekly Coffee Tasting at New Harvest Coffee Roasters’ Hope Artiste Village location. Each Friday, coffee lovers can sample and learn about delicious coffees from around the world. Free. 3-4pm. 1005 Main Street #108, Pawtucket. newharvestcoffee.com.

May 3: Complete a one-mile walk through Warwick City Park with your doggie friend while celebrating the canine caregivers who unconditionally support those battling cancer at the American Cancer Society’s Bark for Life event. $20. 10am-2pm. 185 Asylum Road, Warwick. 738-2000, relay.acsevents.org.

May 1-29: Heat up a boring Friday night with an incredibly hot Tango Class. The weekly class is geared toward beginners and is followed by free practice time… Perhaps you’ll meet a sexy stranger to show off your new moves to! Free. 7:30-8:30pm. 172 Exchange Street, Pawtucket. 2881170, providencetango.com.

May 4: Tor Johnson Records Presents Star Wars Day with The Hurt Ensemble, Au Revoir, Atsuko Chiba and Barrens at AS220. The lineup brings a variety of musical experiences from “most epic soundscapes” to “double bass awesomeness” to “jazz scream-y craziness.” $5. 9pm-1am. 115 Empire Street. 831-9327, as220.org.

May 1-31: The RISD Museum presents Raqs Media Collective: A Myriad Marginalia, an exhibition and

May 2: Learn something new and be inspired to help better the world at TedX Providence. The all-day event,

May 5: If you like your bands shaken, not stirred, check out Pink Martini with singer Storm Large this month at the Vets. This genre-crossing little orchestra features a dozen musicians and has performed around the world. $39.50$59.50. 7:30pm. 1 Avenue of the Arts. 222-1467, vmari.com.

which will be held at The Columbus Theatre, features video talks as well as live speakers. $10-$50. 9:30am4:30pm. 270 Broadway. 621-9660, columbustheatre.com. May 5 & 19: Take a one-hour Guided Architectural Library Tour at the historic Providence Public Library on the first and third Tuesday of every month. The building, built in 1900, features sweeping high ceilings and gorgeous woodwork. Free. 10:30-11:30am. 150 Empire Street. 455-8000, provlib.org. May 5-26: Indulge your curiosity by taking a look at the night sky every Tuesday evening at the Ladd’s weekly Telescope Observing Night. The telescope is available for public use year round, weather permitting. Free. 9-11pm. 210 Doyle Avenue. 8632323, brown.edu. May 5-26: Love beer? Love cheap wings? Love rubbing the fact that you’re brilliant in other people’s faces? Head to Trinity Brewhouse every Tuesday night for Stump! Trivia. Winning teams go home with prizes so be sure to bring your smartest

friends. 8pm. 186 Fountain Street. 453-2337, stumptrivia.com. May 6: If you’ve ever wondered what goes on at The Steel Yard, now is your chance to find out. The Yardies offer Public Tours on the first Wednesday of every month. Stop by and take a tour of the interesting building where creative “Yardies” live, work and teach. Free. Noon. 27 Sims Avenue. 273-7101, thesteelyard.org. May 7-28: Why drink at home when you can drink for free in the company of others? Each Thursday stop into Bin 312 for a free Wine Tasting. The shop is full of eclectic, exclusive and interesting wines. Find your new favorite… and be sure to share. 312 South Main Street. 11am-9pm. 7140040, bin312.com. May 8 & 9: Stone Soup Coffeehouse presents Martyn Joseph with opening act Susan Catteneo. The spirited headliner is a singer-songwriter with a career spanning 30 years, 32 albums, over half a million record sales and countless live performances. $20. 6:30-10pm. 67 Roosevelt Avenue, Pawtucket. 921-5115, soup.org.

ONLINE EXCLUSIVE For an up-to-date statewide calendar and to submit your own listings visit providenceonline.com 60

Providence Monthly | May 2015

Get Out |

Calendar

By Erin Balsa

Spring Home

Sale Spring Gifts

May 9: See The Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra perform Carmina Burana, Carl Orff’s choral blockbuster masterpiece that features the famous “O Fortuna,” a piece that has been used in countless movies, TV shows and commercials. The show will be conducted by Larry Rachleff. 8pm. 1 Avenue of the Arts. 222-1467, vmari.com.

May 30: Learn the basics of generating your own homemade fertilizer during Composting 101, an introductory class for anyone with an interest in gardening. You’ll soon be making your own free fertilizer! $10-$14. 10am12pm. Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield. 949-5454, asri.org.

May 9: Help support the Audubon Society of Rhode Island at their Party for the Peregrines fundraiser. Get acquainted with raptors while enjoying cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and partake in a silent auction. $75-$150. 6:30-9pm. 947 Veterans Memorial Parkway, Riverside. 949-5454, asri.org.

May 30: Slater Mill hosts its annual spring fundraiser, A Grande Fete by the River, to benefit the Old Slater Mill Association. Ticket holders will enjoy candlelit grounds, live jazz and much more. 7-10pm. 67 Roosevelt Avenue, Pawtucket. 725-8638, slatermill.org.

May 16 & 17: Learn all there is to know about legally growing and using medical marijuana at the first ever Rhode Island-hosted New England Cannabis Convention. No actual cannabis will be permitted anywhere near the event. $25-$40. 1 Sabin Street. 458-6000, newenglandcannabisconventions.com. May 30: The Billy Taylor House will hold its annual BTH Fashion Gala and Community Leadership Award Event at Twin River. Hosted by Real Housewives of Atlanta star Claudia Jordan, the fundraiser features live music and local fashion. 6-10pm. 100 Twin River Road, Lincoln. 723-3200, billytaylorhouse.org.

May 30: Walk for a good cause at the Orphan Care Walkathon at Lincoln Woods State Park. Proceeds will help AIDS victims and children in Lesotho, southern Africa who have been made orphans as a result of AIDS. 2 Manchester Print Works, Lincoln. 7237892, icrichild.org May 31: On the last Sunday of every month the Let’sGo! Show presents P.I.G. Providence Improv Group at the Artists’ Exchange. Actors span from brand new to seasoned, providing for some memorable (and also some cringe worthy!) performances. $5. 7pm. 50 Rolfe Square, Cranston. 4909475, artists-exchange.org.

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Providence Monthly | May 2015

Get Out |

Art

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ambidexterity that doubles as a meditation on the false dichotomy of left = bad, right = good. Sinister, he explains, derives from a Latin word that originally means “left” but eventually took on the double meaning of evil or unlucky. “The artist Bruce Nauman has this concept that if you claim to be an artist, then everything you do is art. He’s probably someone that I steal from the most. But that’s the beauty of it, because he was ripping off someone else,” says Kevin. “That’s kind of how I view the process of art making – just grasping the idea that there’s not much original stuff out there, but there are incredible takes on stuff. And if you break it all down, it’s kind of like we’re all just doing cave painting in a way.”

Kevin Veronneau To view more of Kevin’s art, or to encourage him to share more of it with the world, follow him on Instagram at @bowtiek

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he’d saved from groceries and takeout. “As I get older I’ve learned not to take myself too seriously, and I’m noticing some overall themes in my work: a lot of wordplay, self-effacement and just poking fun,” says Kevin. “I think one of the nicest compliments I’ve ever received was after that last show. Someone came up to me and said ‘I didn’t know art could be like that.’ That just made my day, because really, I think art can be anything.” When I visit his studio, Kevin greets me at the door wearing basketball shorts, a Smith&Weeden band t-shirt and a mass of curly hair that is slightly evocative of Sideshow Bob. He offers me a glass of Pinot Noir even though he doesn’t drink, then proceeds to tell me about the time he auctioned off a $100 bill for $55 during a performance art piece at Tazza. Then he shows me part of a series he’s been working on – a composition notebook filled cover to cover with the phrase “becoming sinister” written alternatingly with his right and left hands, which he says is an exercise in

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paint supplies in a large, white dollhouse with walls that appear to be dripping blood. Hanging from the rafters in his converted mill space are a tattered black pram that looks like it’s from the 1920s, a 1950s-era plastic springloaded rocking horse and a black and chrome seat stripped from some longago amusement park ride. He says he used to habitually scavenge for relics and weird bits of Americana at junk shops and antique stores because, for a time, he thought surrounding himself with “crap” helped his creative process. Now, he says, not so much. These days Kevin is trying to purge some of his painstakingly curated treasures, but you might not know it by looking around his Elmwood studio. A taxidermied deer head that he’s covered carefully in sparkly purple paint is mounted to the wall and a stuffed duck, a football helmet and a plastic replica of the Millennium Falcon are cast about, waiting to be given the same treatment. On a workbench in the center of the room are stencils, Exacto knives and scraps of silver Mylar that he’s shaping into balloons forming the letters E, G and O. “It’s my inflatable ego!” he says, eyes lighting up. “I’ve had this idea for years and I’m finally doing it.” The balloon project is somewhat ironic, since Kevin is an artist whose ego seems relatively tame in an era of social media-aided, easy-access exhibitionism. As I write this, he doesn’t have a website, rarely posts on Facebook, has exactly two photos on his Instagram account and seems far more interested in the play and creative process of his artwork than he does with actually showing it to the public. His last gallery show was two years ago, a solo exhibition at World’s Fair Gallery in Pawtucket entitled Do Not Eat. It included installations like a pillowcase stuffed with 15 years’ worth of his hair, the phrase “I am a hunter” spelled out in caps on a white wall with Oscar Mayer wieners and the phrase “I am a gatherer” spelled out on an adjacent wall with 17 years’ worth of receipts

May 2015 | Providence Monthly

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Get Out | Music

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Providence Monthly | May 2015

How a high school band snuck in and swept the WBRU Rock Hunt If this year’s Rock Hunt had been a movie, critics would have called out the ending for being too obvious, but in real life it was the kind of thing you never saw coming. Picture it: a band made up of a bunch of bright-eyed high schoolers with nothing to lose. They make a Hail Mary bid for the wild card slot in a battle of the bands, make the cut and then manage to win over three groups who have been slugging it out in clubs and bars since before these kids had even picked up their guitars. So there I was at the WBRU Rock Hunt finals at The Met in Pawtucket, mildly amused at the thought of a bunch of teenagers squeaking in at the last minute. They’d be cute, I figured, eager but lacking the polish to stand a chance. Their age would have kept them from developing the chops of their competitors, or more importantly, having accrued the necessary amount of heartache, experience and cynicism to pull it off. I mean what’s rock and roll without some emotional baggage? But then they took the stage, and by the end of their first song it was pretty obvious that these kids were musically wise beyond their years. Against all odds and expectations they came out and killed it. I mean they absolutely slayed. Despite all of the years under the collective belts of the other three bands, Public Alley managed a singularly outstanding performance. It was a tightly arranged, high-energy 30 minutes of indie pop. There was a trumpet, accordions, an out-of-left-field rap. The whole band was erupting with charm and an infectious amount of enthusiasm. It was fun, damn it; an honest-togoodness blast to watch from start to finish. When they walked away champions the only people surprised were the members of Public Alley. “We never saw ourselves in this situation,” says singer Zoë Hinman. After their eleventh hour submission to the Rock Hunt – which as they tell it was literally conceived and submitted an hour before the midnight deadline – failed to earn them a spot competing in the semi-finals, drummer Max Fertik caught wind of the wild card slot.

2015 WBRU Rock Hunt Winner Public Alley

The band, all of whom are students at East Greenwich High School, with the exception of keyboard player Szabi Kiss who is currently studying at MIT, embarked on an aggressive campaign to get into the finals. “We were really passionate about getting this spot,” adds Zoë. As passionate as they were, their expectations weren’t too high once they earned that coveted fourth spot. “We went into it thinking it was a good gig, we’d get to play with these great bands we’ve been listening to and get our name out there,” says bass player Cam Cianciolo. For them being there genuinely seemed to be enough of a reward. “We used to talk about being in the Rock Hunt the way people talk about what they would do if they won the lottery,” says Zoë. She doesn’t just say that to be polite or faux-humble. For them, Rock Hunt is Olympus, inhabited by a pantheon of local rock gods who have won the competition before them. As they start listing previous winners – The Rare Occasions, The Wandas, Roz and the Rice Cakes – they become increasingly more excited. Noah spoke about seeing 2009 winner Fairhaven play at Lupo’s a few years back with an almost spiritual reverence. “When

I listened to them then, I didn’t think of them as just a Rock Hunt winner, I thought of them as Young the Giant and OK Go. They were a famous band to me. I looked up to them.” Playing Lupo’s is one of the spoils that comes with winning the Rock Hunt – “Thinking that we’re going to be on that stage blows my mind,” says Cam – as is a spot during WBRU’s free summer concert series at Waterplace Park, which last year saw performances by national acts like Phantogram and Kongos. Even WBRU’s studio is hallowed ground. “The most overwhelming part of seeing the studio was the stairway signed by every band that’s ever played there,” says Max. “We might be able to sign that.” For Public Alley, the Rock Hunt isn’t a stepping stone to the big break, it is the big break. As far as they’re concerned they’ve made it, and with that locked down, it’s just back to making catchy, high-energy rock and roll.

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Photography by Tim Siekiera

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Get Out | Theatre

By Jenn Salcido

Treat Mom!

Adding Magic to a Musical Into the Woods makes its debut at Ocean State Theatre Company Rhode Island is one of those places where it seems like no matter how long you’ve lived here as a transplant, you’re never truly a Rhode Islander if you weren’t born within the tiny state’s borders. But for Coventry-based actor Tommy Labanaris, who relocated to the state with his husband a little more than three years ago, after the two had spent a decade making it work as actors in New York City, he finally feels like he has a place to call home. “One of the things I remember about living in New York was that every six months I was on the road. People said, ‘well, you moved to New York to leave it,’” says Tommy, who will be starring as The Baker in Ocean State Theatre Company’s production of Into The Woods this month. “But now, I can’t really describe how amazing it is to drive 20 minutes away from home, rehearse a show that’s so dear to my heart and at the end of the day, drive home to my husband and puppy and have dinner. You can do really good work here and not have to be on the road all the time.” As someone who has certainly put in his time being a starving artist in the city, Tommy knows a good thing when he sees it. Bitten by the bug when he was young, Tommy loved to sing, but spent more of his time as a three-season athlete while growing up in New Hampshire. But when a performance in the school variety show led to a turn in The Odd Couple and later to summer stock at the Rochester Opera House, he knew he’d found his calling. Like many young artists, even as he studied theater in college, there was no shortage of feedback that theater wasn’t a real career option. “I remember saying to someone, ‘You don’t just go out in the world and do this,’” he explains, echoing the self-doubt he had started to feel as he continued clinging to the idea that he’d major in biology. “But they said, ‘Well, who do you think does this out in the world?’ I realized it was a craft, and I was constantly learning.” Tommy dropped his bio major in favor of theater, dedicating himself to learning all aspects of the art form and the history of the business. After graduating

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from the University of New Hampshire, armed with the knowledge that one could really do this out in the world, he made his way to the Bristol Valley Theater in Maple, New York, where he met his husband, Ryan Bates, during a production of Lend Me A Tenor. Now, the pair makes their home in Coventry, where Ryan is a real estate agent and Tommy pairs website design with roles around the region (he made his OSTC debut in Les Mis during the theater’s debut season in its Warwick space, continuing on to do two more shows that year) and occasional kids’ concerts back in NYC. “Being a part of the Ocean State hits close to home in lots of ways – I’ve just set down roots in Coventry, and I’m setting down roots in Warwick. It feels like OSTC and I are getting a start at the same time. It’s a nice parallel, and I’ve found a great family there.” Tommy and his co-stars are readying the Tony Award-winning musical for local audiences – quite a number of them, it would seem, as the theater company announced they were extending the show’s run well before it opened. “When we chose to include Into the Woods this season, we had no idea how popular it would be,” says Producing Artistic Director Amiee Turner in a

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release advertising the extension. At the time of our conversation, Tommy hadn’t yet sat down to rehearse, but already he was turning over his iconic role in his mind. Playing an impoverished baker who desperately wants a child and undertakes a risky bargain to get one, Tommy says he thinks audiences will no doubt identify with his character, the compromises he makes and the toll they take on his good soul. “The big picture is that you might want something different, but you realize you were fine right where you were. Stephen Sondheim, the original composer, is a master with the message: we should be careful what we wish for, because those wishes might come true and then we’ll have to deal with them,” he says. “The play shows us it’s fine to want more, but we should really appreciate what we have.”

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Savor Providence

By Ali McGowan

Pillow Talk Ah, coffee and donuts, a classic American breakfast for those who don’t mind a little sweetness in their morning routine. Besides the obvious drive-thru, where does one go for a delicious circular treat that doesn’t leave them feeling wracked with sugary guilt all day long? If it has the calories, it better be worth it, and these four pillowy pastries are definitely worth it.

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White Electric’s vegan donut with savory and spicy notes tasted like the good ol’ egg-laden versions “our forefathers dunked into steaming cups of coffee” over great conversation. We loved the firm crust, moist center and not-toosweet flavor. 711 Westminster Street. 453-3007, whiteelectriccoffee.com

Providence Monthly | May 2015

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now aCCEPtinG Graduation Party rESErvationS 284 thayer street, proVidenCe • 401.331.8111 kartabar.Com

Complimentary Valet parking thursday-saturday