Providence Monthly July 2021 by Hey Rhody Media Co.

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Providence Monthly July 2021

URBAN SANCTUARIES

Photo courtesy of Rose Kenyon

12 The Public’s Radio: A look at Elorza’s risky pension proposal 14 Former PVD pop-up rethinks luggage 16 Op-Ed: Imagining what could have been for our beloved baseball team

18 Neighborhood News: Hyper-local news and contact listings 22 Rhody Gem: A plant nursery infuses greenery and art on the East Side

Photo courtesy of Homegrown

LIFE & STYLE 27 Home: A Blackstone neighborhood home renovated to accommodate busy family life 32 Shop: Summer-ready sundries from a pharmacy named for an MBTA line 34 Influencer: Angela McCalla shares about family, community, and the best Korean BBQ

On The Cover: An East Side backyard oasis. Photo by Sascha Martin ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

51 New marble carving at Farm Fresh Rhode Island links eras

52 Live music returns to the Ocean State

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54 The very Rhody life and times of artist Billy Montella, Jr.

59 Summer cocktails served as sorbet

56 Calendar: This month’s must-do’s

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9 Local cannabis lifestyle accessories defy the stigma of smoking

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ART & CULTURE Photo by Norman Joshua Photography

NEWS & CITY LIFE

City dwellers continue to make the most out of outdoor spaces for work and play

60 In The Kitchen: Hell’s Kitchen chef breaks out in PVD with new dumpling pop-up 62 Hot dog joints and NY System wieners 64 Food News: Bodega sandwiches, Alaskaninspired sweets & Fox Point provisions 66 Restaurant Guide: COVID-ready listings to plan where and how to dine 72 Pic of PVD

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NEWS & CITY LIFE

The ZoaEssential Tin in Wild Forest Green

Cannabis Couture Brown University student reimagines smoking accessories to combat the stigma around weed “The idea came to me as I was shopping for my best friend’s birthday present,” Sophia Siegel recalls. “I desperately wanted to get her something to fix her ‘smoking problem’.” Siegel isn’t referring to an issue with her friend’s habit of smoking weed, but the accessories she used, “all of which screamed ‘Smoking weed is sketchy!’” Siegel quickly realized that the cannabis accessories market was missing something huge: products for ofage college students and young professionals who don’t want to feel stigmatized for using pot to relax, relieve anxiety, or just enjoy the high. So, the concept for Zoa Rose, Siegel’s luxe cannabis lifestyle brand, was born. She compares the notion to that of drinking, when you choose a delicate, specially crafted glass from which to sip wine. “In the same manner, we bring you thoughtful, beautiful products to help elevate your smoking experience.” Photography by Tracy Niedermeyer, courtesy of Zoa Rose ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

Ca nnabi s Cul t ure | By Megan Schmit

Zoa Rose sells a curated collection of smoking accessories, including their sleek ZoaEssential Tins available in Wild Forest Green and Sunshine Yellow, each filled with 15 all-natural, unbleached hemp cones and wooden packing tool. You’ll also find newly released Zoa Rose Bouquets of 20 cones for a one-time purchase or subscription service, and a line of lifestyle products like an ultra-cozy handmade hoodie. In the future, Siegel also plans to release more

color options and collaborate with artists for tin designs. While Zoa Rose exudes playfulness, Siegel is serious about the mission behind her brand. “Addressing the stigma around cannabis is extremely important to me, in part due to the fact that cannabis has become an essential tool for managing my anxiety,” says Siegel, who is a rising junior at Brown University studying philosophy. “While it’s great to have something that works, it’s a

The team behind Zoa Rose

ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

double-edged sword – cannabis is often associated with a laundry list of negative qualities: lazy, unmotivated, etc.,” she explains, adding that this shame is widely held, particularly among women. “By creating a community based on open and honest dialogues, I hope to end the stigma around cannabis, and in particular, the stigma surrounding cannabis and mental health.” And Siegel’s intentions don’t stop there. She expresses the inevitability of legalization in Rhode Island, but points out that merely legalizing marijuana is not enough: “Cannabis is inexorably tied to racism, and this won’t end just because prohibition does. Rather, lawmakers and businesses alike must take action to repair the harms of decades of systemic racism.” Through Zoa Rose, Siegel is committed to educating and encouraging the community to take action and collaborate with nonprofits that share these values, like the Last Prisoner Project, to which Zoa Rose donates 10 percent of its sales each quarter. The organization works to redress the effects of cannabis criminalization through intervention, education, and criminal justice reform advocacy. “As for the Rhode Island politicians,” Siegel begins, imparting impassioned advice, “I encourage them to take legalization as an opportunity to reinvest in communities of color that have been disproportionately affected by the War on Drugs.” Shop, connect, and learn more at ZoaRose.com or on Instagram at @zoarose.

Photography by Tracy Niedermeyer, courtesy of Zoa Rose

NEWS & CITY LIFE

P e nsi o n P r o posal | By Ian Donnis, Political Reporter for The Public’s Radio

In Partnership with The Public’s Radio • ThePublicsRadio.org

Elorza’s Pension Proposal Relies on a Risky Approach and an Adviser Linked with 38 Studios

Providence’s pension crisis has its roots in the late 1980s. That’s when the city’s Retirement Board approved unusually generous compounded cost of living adjustments for more than 2,500 city workers and retirees. Decades later, that move helps explain why there’s a $1.2 billion gap between the pension balance and the amount owed to current and future retirees. The pension crisis has defied attempted solutions for years. Providence officials say the city has just 22 percent of the money needed to meet its long-term pension obligations. And the amount of the city budget consumed by the pension is growing 5 percent a year, to about $93 million currently. Without a change, that annual payment will rise to $227 million by 2040. Mayor Jorge Elorza said these pension costs are unsustainable. “It’s only a matter of time before they continue to squeeze everything else out of our budget, so that we’re cutting deeper and deeper into the bone,” he said during a recent news conference. Elorza’s plan involves selling $704 million in pension obligation bonds. The idea is that these bonds could generate enough of a return to boost the pension system’s funding to more than 60 percent. “The favorable conditions in the market, historically low interest rates, combined with our improved credit rating, has brought our credit rating to a point where we can take advantage of a very low interest rate for something like this that begins to make it worth it,” Elorza said. But pension obligation bonds are considered risky – so risky that a national group, the Government Finance Officers Association, declared in 2015 that state and local governments should not use them. The concern is how bond proceeds sometimes earn less than

ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

Mayor Elorza speaking with reporters

Photo by Ian Donnis

The underfunded pension system in Providence is like a time bomb. That’s because the huge shortfall for long-term obligations threatens to overwhelm other parts of the city’s budget. But there are a lot of questions about Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza’s latest proposed fix. Rhode Island’s House Finance Committee is expected to hold an initial hearing on Elorza’s plan this week or next week.

the interest owed over the life of the bond, leading to even higher liabilities for the municipality or state in question. That’s part of why the Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council, or RIPEC, a business-backed fiscal watchdog group, opposes Elorza’s plan. Besides the risk of pension obligation bonds, RIPEC head Michael DiBiase said such a large amount of borrowing would remove pressure for benefit reform, like getting current city employees to contribute more toward their pensions. “I also think there’s an issue in how the city is really not in a great position to absorb if this thing goes the wrong way,” DiBiase said, “and there is a concern that the state taxpayers will need to step in and backstop whatever issues that might arise.” Critics also question the role of Hilltop Securities, a firm that has been advising the city for years and is the consultant on the pension proposal. That’s because the company, back when it was known as First Southwest, was among the entities sued by the state for negligence, fraud and legal malpractice over the failure of former Red Sox star Curt Schilling’s video game company, 38 Studios. Lincoln Chafee was governor when the company went bankrupt. Chafee initiated the lawsuit and he hired lawyer Max Wistow to try to recover the millions lost due to the failure of 38 Studios. The company was attracted to Rhode Island with the help of a $75 million state loan guarantee. In 2017, Hilltop was the last defendant in the lawsuit when it agreed to make a $16 million settlement without acknowledging any wrongdoing. Elorza stands behind the company. “They’ve advised us as they advise a number of other municipalities, not only in Rhode Island but throughout the country,” he said. “And they’ve helped us close on bonds such as the recent one for the affordable housing bond. They allowed us to realize $6 million more than we thought we were going to realize through the bond offering. So, they have served us well.”

But back in 2015, state General Treasurer Seth Magaziner cited the company’s connection with 38 Studios in leading a successful move to oust it as the state’s financial adviser. However, as The Public’s Radio reported that year, Hilltop Securities continued to serve as a financial adviser for one-third of the state’s communities on bond issues and for seven quasi-public state agencies. Head of the good government group Common Cause of Rhode Island John Marion said these ongoing relationships are a head-scratcher. “To some degree, it boggles the mind why a firm that’s associated with the largest financial scandal in a generation in Rhode Island would continue to receive so much business from such a variety of governments in the state,” Marion said. Magaziner, who, like Elorza, is expected to run in next year’s Democratic gubernatorial primary, declined an interview request for this story. Gary Sasse, head of the Hassenfeld Institute for Public Leadership at Bryant University, says the link with Hilltop Securities muddies what is already a contentious proposal for Providence’s pension system. “The project itself is so complex and involves so many moving parts and has so much risk that this conversation doesn’t help focus on what the real objective is here,” Sasse said. A spokesman for Hilltop Securities did not respond to an interview request for this story. Elorza acknowledged that shoring up Providence’s pension through pension obligation bonds is risky. But he says the risk of doing nothing could be worse. His latest proposal comes a few years after a different plan -- to monetize Providence’s water supply -- failed to attract legislative support. The mayor’s current pension plan also requires General Assembly approval. Elorza has a champion in the state Senate, where the third-ranking member, Majority Whip Maryellen Goodwin of Providence, is firmly behind the proposal. But the outlook is uncertain on Smith Hill, including in the House of Representatives.

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jdriver@residentialproperties.com ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

NEWS & CITY LIFE

L uxe L uggage | By Andrea E. McHugh

Silver Linings Tracey Cugno knows a thing or two about consumer behavior. She had retail shops in T.F. Green as well as Connecticut’s Bradley Airport for a combined 15 years, and spent much of that time talking to seasoned travelers about their packing methodology. She learned the tips and tricks they use to maximize efficiency, from breezing through TSA security checkpoints to the art of tucking your carry-on into those remarkably small overhead bins. She also learned about their wants and needs that weren’t being met – and saw a market opportunity. “That’s how I got into luggage and luggage design,” explains Cugno, who has also owned Shades and Pier Optical, a sunglasses shop in Narragansett, since 2007. “I had a front row seat with thousands of people walking by me every day. I got to see how they picked their bags up, how they carried them, who looked like they were happy carrying their bag and who didn’t.” She interviewed thousands of passengers and then took two years to plan, test, and ultimately launch the LEIGH line of innovative luggage and travel accessories. In early 2020, LEIGH had a two-month pop-up shop in Providence that Cugno functionally used to dip her toe in the marketplace. She garnered invaluable consumer insights before the COVID lockdown, and last June, opened the LEIGH flagship on Newport’s Thames Street in a designer collaboration with Azzul, a collection of men and women’s footwear handmade in Portugal. LEIGH’s product line is meticulously curated and edited: It’s quality not quantity, and the aesthetic is simple, chic, smart, and understated. There’s a backpack that comes in two different sizes and the signature LEIGH ShoeBag, which comes with a simple “S” clip so you can attach it to the travel bag. There’s a modern duffle that fits multiple pairs of shoes in custom compartments, plus an expansive separate space for clothing and designated

ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

Tracey Cugno, owner of LEIGH ShoeCase Company

Photos courtesy of LEIGH

Tracey Cugno revolutionizes travel accessories, starting with a pop-up in Providence

IT'S YOUR JOURNEY, WE'RE HERE TO HELP

The LEIGH Resort ShoeCase

padded laptop section with pockets for cords. Then there’s the piece de resistance, the Resort ShoeCase, which features a packing system that would make Carrie Bradshaw swoon. With hints of a vintage travel case but thoroughly modern, the Resort ShoeCase can fit up to six pairs of shoes and contains movable dividers to accommodate different shapes and sizes of footwear. Most impressively – and importantly – is that all LEIGH bags include an exclusive antimicrobial silver lining, called Ionic+™ Antimicrobial/Anti-Odor Silver Tech, that prevents bacteria and odor for the accessory’s lifetime. “I just wanted to provide ease, comfort, and a solution,” says Cugno, who lives in Westerly where the LEIGH warehouse is located. Now in business for two years, she is proud to say that she has not had a single return. And as travel slowly ramps up to pre-pandemic popularity, you’ll likely be seeing more of LEIGH – pieces of our small state jet-setting their way around the world. Shop-LEIGH.com

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NEWS & CITY LIFE

O p-Ed | By Barry Fain & Steve Triedman

PawSox’s Field of Dreams It should have been built here….and they would have come

ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

The future of McCoy Stadium is still up in the air, but we have some ideas

So, here’s our suggestion. Let’s replace the “Field of Dreams” with a “Field of Schemes.” Let’s repurpose McCoy as a museum to showcase something we’re really good at: Introducing the Rhode Island Political Hall of Shame. Here you’ll be able to see the Matiello exhibit, which is just past the Cianci Concourse, which of course has a separate admission tax. You’ll be able to learn about How to Steal Bases (and much better stuff).

There’ll be tips on How to Grab that Extra Base (or a pension). And no one will want to miss a hands-on exhibition on How Many Pockets can be filled when you execute a “double or triple play”. Hungry? Try the Ed DiPrete Dumpster Dive with its Walt’s Roast Beef Room or the Judge Bevilacqua Alpine Motel exhibit, where you get a special discount if you bring in your own “side dish”. For early risers, there’s always the Fox in the Hen House

Photo courtesy of McCoy Stadium

“If you build it, they will come.” The memorable line from Field of Dreams actually came true last month, sadly in Worcester rather than Pawtucket. After months of back and forth among the team owners, the governor, and legislators, the negotiations had more in common with the Abbott and Costello classic “Who’s on First?” than common sense and leadership. All the politicians had an agenda…except getting a deal done. And with that, our beloved hometown heroes traded their Paws for Woo, and bid us adieu. Did Rhode Island – and Providence in particular – blow it by letting them leave? It’ll be years before we can answer that for sure, but we do know this much: The new owners wanted to be in Providence. Let us imagine an alternative scenario…. The stadium could have been built on the corner of Eddy and Point Street, where it was originally proposed. It could have been named the IGT Field, the home of the Providence Slots; every time a player hit a home run, the sound of coins dropping into a slot machine tray would have blared through the loud speakers. The City could have bonded the cost and put in 400 slot machines guaranteeing steady repayment. A stadium with a 24hour slot parlor? Home run. And, when it became legalized, a profitable state-run marijuana dispensary could have further reduced our pension liability. The field would be grass, not Astroturf, because you can’t smoke Astroturf! Centrally located, the stadium would have provided plenty of parking and corporate support. Little league games and high school championships could have been played here. A new soccer team, the Providence Blackjacks, would have been a perfect tenant. Plenty of concerts, too. In short, a stadium/slots parlor might have put Providence on a very sound financial footing. Now all that’s left is an abandoned McCoy Stadium.

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breakfast special. As former nun and Attorney General Arlene Violet said, “RI is one of the most Catholic states in the Union. I guess a lot of our politicians must have been dozing off during the sermons.” And, McCoy would be the perfect place for this kind of homage. To quote Satchel Paige, “I never threw an illegal pitch. The trouble is, once in a while I toss one that ain’t never been seen by this generation.”

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NEWS & CITY LIFE

N e i ghbo r ho o d News | Curated by Abbie Lahmers

Neighborhood News A space made available to Providence’s neighborhood associations free of charge.

HOT TOPICS An overview of what’s happening around the city right now

Utility company makes good on planting new trees in Fox Point As many Fox Point neighbors know, the utility company National Grid removed three mature and beloved London plane trees last summer from South Main Street near the Van Leesten Memorial Bridge, to the fervent and vocal opposition of residents. The company refused to spare the trees at the time, but pledged to plant 66 saplings around the city, mostly in Fox Point, to compensate for the loss. Since then, the Tree Restitution Advisory Committee has met to oversee the plantings. Representatives from the Providence Neighborhood Planting Program, Save the Trees PVD, FPNA, the Mile of History Association, and Friends of India Point Park, as well as National Grid, the City Forester, and our Ward 1 Councilor, determined where and what type of trees should be planted. They have since planted trees along South Water Street, in India Point Park, in Gano Park, and behind Vartan Gregorian Elementary, where the highway sounds and pollution have been problematic. The committee also oversaw the planting of almost 30 trees near the South Side Boys & Girls Club and six at the Young Woods School on Prairie Ave. While many neighbors saw the removal of the London planes as an unnecessary loss, the new plantings may provide some consolation.

Six conifer trees were planted behind Vartan Gregorian Elementary in midMay to mitigate pollution and noise

ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

Ordinance approved for historic district in Ward 1 On May 24, the City Council Committee on Ordinances voted unanimously to include 87 properties in a local historic district (zoning overlay), providing regulatory oversight for exterior changes, demolitions, and new construction. This does not include regulating paint colors or regular maintenance; it does not require undertaking work that is not already planned. Since 2013, the Providence Preservation Society has led the effort on behalf of residents in the area roughly bounded by Hope, Angell, Governor, and Young Orchard. Ward 1 Councilman John Goncalves sponsored the ordinance, working closely with policy and planning staff. The full Council must consider the ordinance twice. Following their approval, the Historic District Commission will adopt standards and guidelines. Providence’s first local historic district, College Hill, was created in 1960 and expanded in 1990. Other existing districts are Armory, Broadway, North Elmwood, Providence Landmarks District, South Elmwood, and Stimson Avenue. Local historic districts help protect the architectural character of an area and are created after

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Photo by Amy Mendillo

an architectural and historical survey, extensive neighborhood consultation and education, numerous public hearings, and approval by the City Council. Local preservationists hope to see more protection of Providence’s architectural and cultural heritage, but thought must be given to social and racial equity in any new initiatives. Serious consideration for a greater municipal investment in staffing, resources, and incentives should be given by the current and future Mayor and Council.

Special election to fill Ward 15 City Council vacancy

Volunteering opportunities and updates in Summit Neighborhood

The Providence City Council special election primary was held on June 8 with four Democrat candidates – Doris De Los Santos, Casandra Inez, Santos Javier, and Oscar Vargas – competing for the Ward 15 seat, representing the Olneyville, Valley, and portion of Silver Lake neighborhoods. The general election will be held July 6, but because there are no Republican or third-party candidates running, the June 8 election winner will be the only name on the July ballot, though at time of press, primary results were not yet known. The City Council seat became vacant when former Council President Sabina Matos was appointed lieutenant governor by Governor Dan McKee. The Olneyville Neighborhood Association, a nonprofit organization whose work supports immigrants’ rights and changing the community through collective cooperation, has a front-row seat for the special election. ONA hopes that the winning candidate will work with the organization in establishing a community where social, economic, political, cultural, and ecological conditions are a priority for the residents of Ward 15.

On April 26, the Summit Neighborhood Association held its Annual Meeting, hearing from local elected officials and voting in seven new board members and two new officers. The board will be led by President Sharon Lee Waldman and Vice President Bradly VanDerStad, with Britt Page continuing as treasurer. SNA also honored former Miriam Hospital Director of Community Relations & Corporate Citizenship Monica Anderson with the Sheila Perlow Award “for building trust and friendship between The Miriam Hospital and our neighborhood.” SNA volunteers continue assisting the Mount Hope Community Center with distributing groceries from the food pantry every Wednesday and Friday to residents in need. They are seeking more volunteers to help with deliveries and unloading food pallets from the RI Food Bank on Fridays. Contact snaprov@gmail.com to join the volunteer email list. Other volunteer opportunities, as they arise, are also sent to this list. On the horizon this summer, SNA looks forward to hosting a ribbon cutting for a new water fountain in Lippitt Park with support from Miriam Hospital, and work will soon begin on a commissioned mural to be prominently displayed on Hope Street (on the wall of Not Just Snacks), an initiative in partnership with The Avenue Concept and local artist Joanna Vespia. SNA plans to resume their regular annual yard sale and community cook-off in the fall.

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NEWS & CITY LIFE

N e i ghbo r ho o d News

Photo courtesy of Providence Preservation Society

Providence Neighborhood Associations Blackstone Parks Conservancy P.O. Box 603141, Providence, RI 02906 Admin@blackstoneparksconservancy.org BlackstoneParksConservancy.org Facebook: Blackstone Parks Conservancy College Hill Neighborhood Association Rick Champagne P.O. Box 2442, Providence, RI 02906 CHNA@chnaprovidence.org CHNAProvidence.org

A Cooke Street home within the designated historic district in Ward 1

Downtown Neighborhood Association DNAPVD@gmail.com DNAPVD.com Facebook: Providence Downtown Neighborhood Association, DNA

Observatory Neighborhood Association Ruth Breindel, President ObservatoryPVD@gmail.com

Elmwood Neighborhood Association Karen Hlynsky ENA-PVD.org Facebook: Elmwood Neighborhood Association PVD

Olneyville Neighborhood Association Eduardo Sandoval 122 Manton Avenue, Box 8 Providence, RI 02909 ONAProvidence@gmail.com Facebook: Olneyville Library

Fox Point Neighborhood Association Meeting Date: July 12 Amy Mendillo P.O. Box 2315, Providence, RI 02906 FoxPointNeighborhood@gmail.com FPNA.net Jewelry District Association Sharon Steele, President JewelryDistrict.org JDA@jewelrydistrict.org Mile of History Association Wendy Marcus c/o Providence Preservation Society 24 Meeting Street, Providence, RI 02903 MileOfHistory@gmail.com MileOfHistory.org Mount Hope Community Center 401-521-8830 MHNAInc@gmail.com Facebook: Mount Hope Neighborhood Association, Inc. 20

ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

Providence Coalition of Neighborhood Associations Info@provcna.org • ProvCNA.org Reservoir Triangle Neighborhood Association David Talan 25 Santiago St. Providence, RI 02907 401-941-3662 DaveTalan@aol.com

South Providence Neighborhood Association c/o Dwayne Keys P.O. Box 5653, Providence, RI 02903 401-369-1334 SouthProvNeighbors@gmail.com Facebook: South Providence Neighborhood Association Summit Neighborhood Association Meeting Date: July 19 P.O. Box 41092, Providence, RI 02940 401-400-0986 SNAProv@gmail.com SummitNeighbors.org Washington Park Neighborhood Association 237 Washington Avenue Providence, RI 02905 BettyLinda@aol.com Facebook: Washington Park Association

Smith Hill Partners’ Initiative Wole Akinbi 400 Smith Street Providence, RI 02908 Suite #1 AAkinbi@half-full.com Facebook: Smith Hill Partners’ Initiative

Wayland Neighborhood Association Katherine Touafek Facebook: Wayland Square Neighborhood Association WaylandSquareNeighbors@gmail.com

South Elmwood Neighborhood Association Eleanor Borge and Al Jeffries Facebook: So. Elmwood Neighborhood Association SouthElmwoodNA@gmail.com

West Broadway Neighborhood Association 1560 Westminster Street Providence, RI 02909 401-831-9344 • WBNA@wbna.org WBNA.org

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NEWS & CITY LIFE

By Abbie Lahmers

Homegrown Plant Nursery We’re on the hunt for Rhody Gems! Every neighborhood has that secret, hidden, cool and unusual, or hole-in-the-wall spot that locals love. Email or tag us on social media using #RhodyGem to suggest yours, and we might just feature it! What it is: An immersive nursery and art gallery rich with plant diversity in display gardens of perennials and annuals, ornamental plants, and veggies, all grown organically in-house.

What makes it a Rhody Gem? Despite its urban home, this nursery is one of the only in the country that’s home to five species of milkweed, eight species of goldenrod, 10 varieties of cherry-blossom primrose, and other niche finds for the plant enthusiast, but also house plants and veggie starters for any level of gardener and a slew of supplies (and plant-savvy employees). Rare and native plants are propagated right here in this unsuspecting city plot, complete with a greenhouse and fenced-in garden tended by owner Russell Stafford, who has a green thumb and affinity for the hard to find. Says repeat customer Bathsheba Demuth, “I’m in the middle of trying to replace much of my lawn with native pollinator friendly varieties and am so grateful for the wisdom and really phenomenal array of flowering, creeping, beautiful growing things Russell has at Homegrown.” Beyond plants, an upstairs gallery hosts nature-inspired art, as Stafford describes it: “A space where you can lose yourself in a leafy retreat for an hour or two.”

Homegrown

135 Gano Street, Providence 400-3706 • HomegrownPVD.com @homegrownpvd

Photo courtesy of Homegrown

Where to find it: As we say in Rhode Island, it’s where A New Leaf used to be. Homegrown is on Gano Street across from the lush Roger Williams Square park, steps from the Fox Point Community Garden.

To submit your Rhody Gem, please email Abbie@ProvidenceOnline.com

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LIFE & STYLE Home | Shop | Influencer

A Natural Fit Modernist elements are right at home in a 1900s house on the East Side Like many parents, Macky McCleary found himself thrust into the role of virtual school headmaster for his brood during the pandemic. As a family doctor and director of family medicine at Women & Infants, mom Kate was busier than ever on the frontlines. Macky’s days became that all too familiar juggling act of keeping the kids on task for remote learning, making lunches alongside his own cups of coffee, and an already full schedule as an energy consultant and then-cabinet member for Governor Raimondo. Did we mention a dog and a new puppy? Suddenly an orderly home felt cramped and the couple decided it was time for a bigger house. Photos by Norman Joshua Photography ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

LIFE & STYLE

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“Jim DeRentis of Residential Properties Ltd. showed us many great properties, but we kept coming back to this one,” says Macky of the Blackstone neighborhood house his family now calls home. “The location is amazing, the grounds are gorgeous, and there’s plenty of space for our kids to grow.” To the McClearys, everything was perfect except for the kitchen, which they wanted to be open and accommodating for both homework and hors d’oeuvres. DeRentis suggested they talk to Paul Vespia from Hill & Harbor Design + Build, a firm in East Greenwich specializing in historic and coastal homes. “With a clear idea of what kind of budget it would take to make the kitchen what we needed, we were lucky enough to have our offer accepted and bought the house

in September 2020.” Staying true to the 1900s Georgian, modifications were made that acknowledged the character of the house mixed with the modern aesthetic the McClearys favor. The renovation included knocking out a wall between the kitchen and dining room resulting in an east-facing water view from the kitchen and a family social space for cooking and eating. “As a result our kitchen, while not purely modern, is actually shaker style with highly modern fixtures. We like clean lines, simple, timeless forms.” When it came to choosing paint colors, Macky said they aimed for classics: “Simple colors we would still like 10 to 15 years from now. Also, as a rule we like blues, and try to choose complementary colors

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LIFE & STYLE

Home

to them – yellows and oranges across the color wheel – as accents.” Today, the large kitchen island – or “isthmus” as their daughter calls it – is the family hub. “Kate is an aspiring chef and we love to entertain (in non-pandemic times). We have tried to create a space that encourages socialization. We have a large and loving extended family on both sides that all get along well (imagine that!) so we needed a space that could support that,” Macky explains. “And the sunrise and morning light are amazing.”

GET RHODY STYLE The McCleary abode is a prime example of how a historic home can maintain its integrity without sacrificing streamline style; add in some local accents, and it’s perfectly Providence.

LOCAL LOVE “We love KNEAD Doughnuts, Persimmon, Frog & Toad, Henry Bear’s Park, Plaid & Stripe Pet Store, and Kreatelier (who did our window seat box cushion in the kitchen). Books on the Square, Stock, the WhatsGood farm delivery app, Red Stripe, McBrides, Eastside Mart on Lloyd, among others, really too many to list!” says Macky. PVD VIBES “Buy local, stay creative, and make it gorgeous and a bit weird!” says Macky.

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Want your home featured in Providence Monthly? Email Elyse@ProvidenceOnline.com to learn more

Photos by Norman Joshua Photography

BLUES TRAVELER “Rhode Island is the Ocean State and many of our colors (blues) reflect that, but also, our art like the Del’s painting (Mike Bryce) and personal photographs of a blustery winter day at Beavertail.”

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Sho p | By Elyse Major

Rx for Summer Sun For many of us, the notion of sidling up to a druggist’s counter for a chocolate shake is something we’ve only experienced vicariously through movies like It’s a Wonderful Life, but generations ago a visit to most pharmacies also meant a made-to-order soda or a mocktail like a Lime Rickey or an Egg Cream (which contains neither egg nor cream) enjoyed right on the

vitamins, and supplements. Perfect for July, there’s also scratch-made ice cream in both original and vegan varieties, the shop’s own coffee blend, and branded insulated tumblers. “Summer at the fountain is sweet for all generations,” says Christina. “One of my favorite moments is watching a grandparent bring their grandchild in to share the drugstore soda fountain experience

spot. Ken and Christina Procaccianti, Pharm D, have equipped each of their two Green Line Apothecary locations with this throwback feature. Named after the MBTA line where the couple met, along with Rx services, the brand has its own line of goods like soaps, shampoos,

for the first time,” adds Ken. Whether you’re sitting at the soda fountain, shopping for summertime essentials like sunscreen and bug spray, or taking advantage of their free delivery service to avoid the beach traffic, Green Line has quickly become a Rhode Island warm-weather staple.

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LIFE & STYLE

I nfl ue nc e r | By Sascha Martin

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Photo courtesy of Angela McCalla

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CITY RETREATS Whether it’s a balcony or a backyard, outdoor rooms are where it’s at

BY ELYSE MAJOR

“The Great Outdoors” truly lived up to that title during COVID-19. For well over a year, outside became the new inside: that safe space, that primary location. We were encouraged to bundle ourselves up year-round to shop, dine, work, and learn in the open air. The notion of an outdoor room became something many began to consider for the first time, realizing that even putting a chair or two on a postage stamp-sized yard instantly transformed it into something personal, unique, and safe for activities alone and shared. Here are some savvy city dwellers who transformed their backyards, porches, even the trash area into an urban oasis – and will inspire you to do the same.

Photo courtesy of Jen Thum

UNITED FRONT “My house is in a public area with lots of passers-by so I try to fill the front with successive waves of bloom,” begins Anne Holland, a nonprofit board member, of her home in the Hope neighborhood. “When COVID started and everyone was feeling so bleak, I felt like we needed more.” Ever inventive, Holland purchased inexpensive all-weather white nylon lanterns from a Chinese supplier and enlisted Robert Alan Matthews Gardens to modify them into functioning lights. LED bulbs were inserted and wired using a light sensor so the lanterns glow from dusk till dawn. “For a year I had pretty 18-inch balls of yellow, pink, and orange in my front trees. Then when vaccines became available, I decided to change the look to reflect the lightening of our spirits. It really does raise my spirits, and neighbors like to walk by to enjoy them. It feels like a party every night.” During daylight, Holland’s home is known for its 45-foot lilac hedge, which she installed with nine different types, including pinks, whites, purples, and blues as a “green wall’’ to separate the property from her next door neighbor. Holland, who calls herself “an avid gardener but not an expert,” aims for seven months of blooms, from early daffodils to late dahlias. “I love gardening out front because it’s a chance to chat with neighbors and get my hands into the dirt.”

DUSK TIL DAWN Motion sensors automatically turn lights on when it gets dark

Photo courtesy of Anne Holland

PVD TIP: Find similar lanterns at Kreatelier

GREEN ROOM Use leafy plants to soften hard lines and connect to the outdoors

CITY VIEW Kyra Braun, a dermatology physician’s assistant, can often be found with her golden retriever Sawyer on the porch of her second-floor apartment on College Hill. After taking residence a year ago with her roommate Molly, Braun’s father visited to build a custom couch and bar table. “Other than that, I find that the more plants the better,” says Braun, who plans to add a small herb garden and more pillows. “I do just about everything out here – from sunrise yoga to reading a good book on a Sunday afternoon – however, I’d say my favorite thing is hosting friends, grilling out, and enjoying some drinks!” As for the expansive view of the city below: “I feel grateful and always tempted to walk down the hill and join in the downtown fun for the evening! I’m currently planning a get-together with friends and family for July 4. The fireworks came last year as a surprise; the only fireworks I had seen in Providence were at India Point Park, so when we heard them outside and walked on the porch it was a welcome, beautiful shock!”

WORRY-FREE PHILOSOPHY All-weather furniture keeps things simple Photos courtesy of Kyra Braun

BACKYARD ESCAPE Jen Thum and James Grice have been busy at their Mount Hope property fashioning an oasis. Situated on a very steep hill, their backyard abuts the side and roof of a doctor’s office so the couple recently planted arborvitae, a coniferous tree, that will grow in to provide privacy. The pair has also cleverly designated various activity zones with distinct uses like dining, gardening, relaxing, and even playing croquet. “Some of it is still a work in progress,” Thum chuckles. “Highlights include our luxurious cat tunnel and cat tent for resident cats Neenee and Nunu, and a chandelier we built ourselves from driftwood found at Providence Flea to hang over the table on the patio. We’re also growing our first veggie garden ever this year and hoping to keep it alive.” While many endeavors have been DIY, they have called in the pros as well. “Stewart Martin at Providence Gardenworks taught us how to plant the veggie bed and consulted about composting and cutting some of the limbs off our trees,” says Thum, who also cites Evergreen Tree & Landscape Services for compost, Danny Rotondi from D.R. Stonework and Landscape for the new patio, and arborists Bartlett Tree Experts. “Our favorite things to do out here are read in the hammock, use the fire pit for s’mores, eat outside, and barbecue!”

NAP TIME A stand makes most any spot of about 11 feet perfect for a hammock

Photos courtesy of Jen Thum

BRIGHT IDEA A strand of lights wrapped around driftwood makes a rustic chandelier

Ouʦide Inspo Strings of outdoor bulbs add appeal to any spot. No outlets? Seek solar-powered string lights. Nowhere to hang? Pitch poles or sturdy branches in buckets of rocks, sand, or cement and add hooks to hold the wires.

View fencing as a wall and decorate with mirrors or garden tools, or affix half-round planters filled with herbs and flowers.

Use tall plants to create green walls for privacy. For large backyards, think shrubs like privet or arborvitae, and for smaller areas, tall leafy varieties in large pots.

Hang drop cloth panels from porch roofs and overhangs to create privacy.

An old wood table, desk, or dresser can readily become useful outdoors as a bar, potting table, or serving station. Keep drawers open and fill with plants.

Make a string of pennant flags/ bunting from water-resistant fabric such as oil cloth, or even an old shower curtain, by snipping diamond shapes, folding over string or cord, and affixing with fabric adhesive or sewing.

Before adding a fire pit, check local building codes for any restrictions and choose a location that’s a safe distance from low trees, buildings, and anything potentially flammable. Fire pits are available in a range of sizes from table-top bowls that might work for rental porches to having something professionally installed by a hardscaping company.

Illustrations by Abigail Brown

ENTERTAINING IDEAS “When we first moved into our home, our small backyard felt even smaller because there were so many overgrown and unhealthy plants that overcrowded the entire space,” explains Bryan Roberts, a creative agency founder and director. Partner Sascha Martin, sales and social media, agrees. “We worked really hard at trimming the plants and trees – and learning – like how English Ivy looks amazing but can actually cause a lot of damage to our house by growing into our very old foundation.” Martin adds, “After clearing out the overgrown plants, the yard felt huge! We now have a seating area for when we have friends over, a small space for a grill with a little green grass that we love to enjoy for after-work happy hour.” Furnishing for the outdoor space takes its cue from the couple’s love of warm tones. “We live in a bright yellow house and we have a mid-century modern style so we really leaned into the oak and walnut tones,” says Martin, who cites being four blocks from Hope Street as convenient for grabbing items for last-minute entertaining. “We love our geometric martini glasses and RI-shaped charcuterie board from Stock, and Olive del Mondo is our favorite place to grab funky infused vinegar and oils for dipping Seven Stars bread, of course.”

SUMMER O’CLOCK Any day is the perfect reason to celebrate the season

PRINTS CHARMING Add personality to an outdoor space with pattern. Fabrics, such as Sunbrella, are UV protective and resistent to mold and stains Photo courtesy of Sascha Martin

FROM TRASH TO TREASURE Even the narrowest of spaces can be outfitted into places to enjoy

GREEN THUMBS Brenna Franco saw potential in a patch of dirt where the trash cans belonged at the East Side apartment she rents with fiancé Brett Sullivan. “I cleaned it out, found a new home for the trash cans, and started with one small garden box for tomatoes and a few potted perennials.” Four years later that area is now home to many flowers, fruits, herbs, and vegetables. Franco, a nurse, enjoys her downtime working with Sullivan on their lot as much as possible. “This year we added a vertical garden and new string lights and love how it changes with the seasons. It feels like a charming European garden!” Over time, the space

has evolved and there are now two custom garden boxes built by her father, brimming with perennials and rotating annuals. “In addition to some beautiful flowering plants we have a blackberry bush, Meyer lemon tree, herb garden, and various veggies all tucked into this tiny space! Even though we produce a lot of fruits and veggies from the garden, it is most often used as a quiet nook to relax and read a book or have a cocktail with friends. Our dog also loves to nap in the corners of the garden. Brett and I love how the plants create a kind of privacy screen and it feels like our hidden oasis!”

Photos courtesy of Brenna Franco

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KITCHEN GUYS has a legacy in appliances, from its humble start in 1985 as a commercial kitchen supply and design store to the destination it is today. “There is no shortage of anything,” says owner Michael Gaffin, who brings his background in commercial restaurant design to the business and helps customers transform the heart of their home with professional-grade appliances at affordable prices. The 20,000-square-foot showroom in Pawtucket boasts rows upon rows of new, refurbished, and scratch-and-dent appliances at 30-60 percent off retail price. Find stainless steel refrigerators, dishwashers, front-loading washing machines, cooktops, and wall ovens, even your favorite brands. But appliances aren’t all you’ll find at Kitchen Guys: The owner also stocks unique products like mirrors, outdoor grills and smokers, cookware, chandeliers, and even a special room dedicated to displays of sparkling minerals. With an ever-changing inventory that keeps shopping exciting, expert service and delivery, and unbeatable prices, Kitchen Guys is your go-to for turning your kitchen into a place not only for making meals, but memories.

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ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

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ART & CULTURE Concerts | Artist Profile | Calendar

Wonder Wall Art installation at Farm Fresh RI connects with past and present History, community, sustainability: These are the three words Nicholas Benson carved into stone – in Base64 computer code – for a new art installation at Farm Fresh RI’s headquarters in the Valley neighborhood. The public was invited to watch over a weekend in mid-May as Benson worked on a slab of marble. Owner of the John Stevens Shop in Newport, Benson is considered one of the best stone carvers in North America, and worked on both the World War II and Martin Luther King, Jr. memorials in Washington. This is his first public work. Benson decided to carve the words in code to show the connections of the human spirit across time. The artwork combines the ancient technique of stone carving with the modern invention of code used to program computers. While discussing working on a smaller scale, Benson explains, “the only thing that’s a little different here is that on really large civic memorials I’ve designed specific typefaces so I’m able to type and design the bodies of text with a machine.” When the Rhode Island State House was being built in the 1890s, the area that is now Farm Fresh RI was a marble-cutting facility. According to Farm Fresh RI Real Estate & Community Developer Lucie Searle, it was on this site that all of the marble used to build the State House was cut; contractors unearthed some during construction of the Farm Fresh building, and Benson picked out a piece with which to work. “We’ve repurposed [the marble] in our landscape. We’ve made benches that can be sponsored and [Benson] chose a piece to work on,” Searle adds. In the fall, Farm Fresh RI will hold a public sale of the salvaged pieces for those who would like to purchase their own piece of Rhode Island history. Learn more at FarmFresh.org/Benson | By Adam Zangari Photograph by Richard Goulis, courtesy of Farm Fresh RI ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

ART & CULTURE

Co nc e r t s | By Ken Abrams

Live Music Returns If there’s a theme to the 2021 summer music season, it’s “Get Outside” Big Kenny of BIG & RICH performing at Country Fest at Ballard’s

As indoor theaters and music venues continue to make post-pandemic plans, outdoor sites around the state are ramping up for live music this summer. Of course, given continued restrictions, it’s not exactly zero to 60. But after more than a year without live music, concerts ranging from large festivals to local pop-up shows have returned. PICNIC THURSDAYS Enjoy bands on an outdoor stage at this year’s Concerts Under the Elms series in Providence hosted by the RI Historical Society. Pre-order picnic boxes of charcuterie and bevvies to enjoy with live tunes. Guests are welcome to bring their own chairs and coolers. Registration is limited and required. RIHS.org/buy-tickets

FESTIVAL FUN The state’s premium festivals – Newport Folk and Jazz – are returning to Fort Adams State Park under a modified format. The Folk Festival (July 23-28) will be spread over six days (instead of the usual three), with smaller crowds and COVID health and wellness practices in effect. Organizers are essentially running a pair of mini-fests, described as “two unique three-day events of surprise performances, storytelling, and workshops.” The Jazz Festival is scheduled to run from July 30 to August 1 and feature “three intimate days of amazing Jazz performances and surprise collaborations.” Expect crowds to be smaller at both events. NewportFolk.org, NewportJazz.org GLOBAL SOUNDS FirstWorks Live returns with music on the lawn at Roger Williams Park. Genres ranging from global jazz to Americana and hip hop will take the outdoor stage throughout the

ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

summer, with RI-based Latin jazz master and trumpet powerhouse Carlos de Leon performing July 18. Bring a lawn chair for these free concerts happening through September. First-Works.org MUSIC IN THE PARK At Bold Point Park in East Providence, general manager Katie Spaziano is looking forward to welcoming patrons back to the outdoor venue along Narragansett Bay. “We are very excited to be getting back to live entertainment and we know that many Rhode Islanders have been patiently waiting for us to re-open,” she remarks. A season highlight will certainly be country duo Brothers Osborne on August 1. Spaziano explains that more

shows will be added. “We are hard at work putting together the upcoming season and ensuring we are following local operating guidelines.” A late summer favorite, the Rhode Island Folk Festival (formerly Providence Folk Festival) returns this year after a pandemic hiatus in 2020. The free event takes place on Sunday, August 29 at Larissa Park in Rumford. LiveNation.com RHYTHM RETURNS The annual Rhythm and Roots Festival held in Charlestown is also in the planning stages for Labor Day Weekend with several major acts already confirmed. Announced performers include John Hiatt and Rhiannon Giddens. RhythmandRoots.com

Photo courtesy of Ballard’s Beach Resort, Block Island

BILLY ON THE BEACH The Misquamicut Drive-In Theater, a popular seaside spot in Westerly, has Rhody’s own Billy Gilman playing on July 3, and The Lords of 52nd Street, the original Billy Joel band, scheduled for August 5. MBADriveIn.com

Editor’s Note: Dig smaller venues? Check out places like Alchemy in their new digs, The Industrious Spirit Company for Wednesday shows, Askew, and Revival Brewing Company for Garage Market events, and keep tabs on your favorite clubs for status updates. AlchemyRI.com; AskewProv.com; ISCOSpirits.com; RevivalBrewing.com

PORTRAITS FOR ALL AGES GillianGordonPhotographer.com

CONCERTS AT A GLANCE July 3: Billy Gilman, The Misquamicut Drive-In Theater | MBADriveIn.com July 5: Country Fest, Block Island Ballards.com July 9-Sept 10: Music Series at Levitt Amp, Woonsocket | TourBlackstone.com

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July 11-Aug 29: Barrington Summer Concert Series | BarringtonLearningCtr.org July 23-28: The Folk Festival NewportFolk.org July 30-Aug 1: The Jazz Festival NewportJazz.org Aug 1: Brothers Osborne, Bold Point Park, East Providence | LiveNation.com Aug 5: The Lords of 52nd Street, The Misquamicut Drive-In Theater MBADriveIn.com

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Don’t wait to get vaccinated. Help prevent the spread of COVID-19 by following public health guidelines and getting the first vaccine that is available to you. care.brown.edu | #WhyICare

Aug 9: Reggae Fest, Block Island Ballards.com Aug 22: Jam Fest, Block Island Ballards.com Aug 29: Rhode Island Folk Festival, Rumford | RhodeIslandFolkFestival.com Sept 3-5: Rhythm and Roots Festival, Charlestown | RhythmandRoots.com

ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

ART & CULTURE

A r t i st P r o fi l e | By Robert Isenberg

Drawing from Life

If you’re lucky, you may very well spot Billy Montella, Jr. in real life. From his Warwick home, he takes regular trips to East Greenwich, where he’ll walk the shore and shipyards in search of something to paint. When he finds his muse, Montella sketches the scene with charcoal. Slowly but surely, he’ll add layers of pigment, until the landscape is complete, usually about three weeks later. “When you paint from a photograph, you’re painting a flat image,” says Montella. “You don’t feel the atmosphere.” This kind of discipline has kept Montella healthy and youthful. The artist won’t reveal his age, but he’s older than you’d think. And he inherited his creative genes from a long line of artists: His paternal ancestors were sculptors. He’s related to the acclaimed Rhode Island artist Antonio Cirino. Three of Montella’s uncles attended RISD, as did his 54

ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

father and two cousins. His father was a respected jeweler, who crafted in the art deco style and had an agent in New York. “When Hollywood needed a special piece [of jewelry] for a movie,” remembers Montella, “they would get referred to my dad.” You would never guess, spotting Montella on the coast with his charcoal stick and canvas, that the man grew up in Federal Hill, was friendly with mafia grunts, and created an Impressionist painting of Manhattan in the sixth grade – which won a national award and was hung in Washington, DC. Indeed, Montella’s life is saturated in wild stories: How he played hockey for years, how he taught high school for decades, how he studied architecture, then dropped out to care for his father after a debilitating stroke, then cared for his mother after her stroke. His family lore dates back to the Renaissance, when his ancestor Taddeo Taddei was patron to both

Raphael and Michelangelo and commissioned a stone relief called Taddei Tondo. Through it all, Montella has painted and sculpted hundreds of landscapes and portraits, rendered in a traditional style. His many sculptures include a portrait of a US Coast Guard Academy commander and a bust of songstress Laura Nyro. Montella has shown his work across Rhode Island and all over the world; he’s an inducted member of the National Arts Club and the Connecticut Academy of Fine Arts. Despite his gregarious personality, Montella lives a private life. He has neither a website nor social media. If you want to reach him, you have to write to his email address. His daily life is a monkish routine, just as it’s been for years. “Each morning, I get up and have my coffee,” says Montella. “I go to work. I walk and I walk. And I look.” For commission or to see Montella’s portfolio, write to him at BillyBoyJr@live.com

Photo courtesy of Billy Montella, Jr.

Billy Montella, Jr. brings generations of creativity to his painting and sculpture

ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

I’m Here To Help!

ART & CULTURE

C alendar | By Abbie Lahmers

The Must list Essential events this month Thursdays: Master Malian dancers lead a Traditional West-African Dance series open to families and all experience levels at Haus of Glitter Performance Lab to the beat of Djembe and Djun Djun drums. TheGlitterGoddessCollective.org

Saturdays:

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July 5: Follow the red, white, and blue-striped roads for the Fourth of July Parade in Rhode Island’s most patriotic town. This year expect a vehicle procession and don’t forget to mask up. Bristol, FourthOfJulyBristolRI.com

July 11-24: Celebrate our foodie claim to fame with 14 days of dining specials for Providence Restaurant Week: breakfast, lunch, and dinner options available for in-person experiences or takeout. GoProvidence.com/RW

July 12: The annual FORE Izzy Golf Tournament at Wannamoisett Country Club features contests with cash prizes and most importantly raises funds for families whose children have cancer. Rumford, TheIzzyFoundation.org/Golf

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ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

ide statew For a f events o listing online! s visit u m ody.co h HeyR

July 17 and 31: Local artists working in a wide spectrum of mediums set up shop for Summer Outdoor ArtMarts at the WaterFire Arts Center, where shoppers can connect with makers and find unique pieces. WaterFire.org

July 17:

July 18-31:

Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy a cold one from Trinity Beer Garden with complimentary popcorn for Movies at Providence Rink. Screening this month is Raya & The Last Dragon. TheProvidenceRink.com

Presented by Wilbury Theatre Group, the FringePVD festival is making a comeback with a mixture of online and outside events to celebrate and promote Providence-based performing artists. FringePVD.org

Photo courtesy of Madison Weinhoffer

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The pandemic-born summer tradition of Open Air Saturdays continues, transforming Downcity into a pedestrian hub for shopping, strolling, and sampling all that Westminster has to offer. Facebook: InDowncity PVD

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July 22-24: What would a South County summer be without the Blessing of the Fleet Festival? This three-day event features seafood, a virtual 10-mile road race, and of course blessings bestowed upon the fleet. NarragansettLionsClub.org

July 30 - August 1: Three intimate days of timeless jazz performances and collaborations will take over Fort Adams for the Newport Jazz Festival. Health protocols will be in place to keep the gathering safe. NewportJazz.org

SUMMER J-CAMP 2021

SAFE & OR FU June 28 - August 28 EASY F ! FOR KID N S T N E Grades 1 6: Campers S! PAR Grades 7 - 10: Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Learn more about Summer J-Camp: jewishallianceri.org/summer-j-camp/ Or contact Aaron Guttin at aguttin@jewishallianceri.org

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FOOD & DRINK I n t h e K i t c h e n | H o t D o g s | F o o d N ew s

Frozen not Stirred Courtland Club returns – and with cocktail-inspired sorbet You’ve ordered a drink neat or on the rocks, dirty or with a zest, and maybe the temptation to ask for your favorite bevvie a la mode has struck before, but now you need not fear being scoffed at for making such a decadent request. Courtland Club, which reopened earlier this summer with the return of bar service – along with savory snacks to enjoy indoors, outside on their patio, or to go – has got you covered. If an evening hasn’t yet taken you to this speakeasy-style joint off of Atwells, it isn’t as exclusive as “club” would have you think, and their spread of craft cocktails takes delightful liberties with the classics, including some house staples recast as sorbets and ice creams. Adorned with tiny gold stars to give this dessert a little extra glitz, the Mother Theresa Sorbet is one of several to make it into the summer rotation of frozen treats infused with liquor. With a base of mezcal, ingredients like cassis (blackcurrant), Campari, beet juice, raspberry, and rose water go into this (arguably healthy) tonic, which is frozen to create a dairy-free sorbet. Though served neither up nor in an old-fashioned glass, this saintly treat is without a doubt still a cocktail, but in a more playful form ideal for beating the summer heat. Watch for their Negroni Sorbet, Piña Colada Ice Cream (made vegan with coconut milk), Watermelon Margarita, and Raspberry Daiquiri, too, and before you know it you’ll be clinking spoons instead of glasses. 51 Courtland Street, CourtlandClub.com | By Abbie Lahmers Photo by Ryan Lopes, courtesy of Courtland Club ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

FOOD & DRINK

I n T he Ki t c he n | By Abbie Lahmers

Out of the Frying Pan Johnson & Wales grad cut her teeth on Hell’s Kitchen before opening a dumpling pop-up in PVD

“I do everything by hand,” says Brynn Gibson on the eve of the Dumpling Den’s monthly appearance at Fortnight Wine Bar on Mathewson Street. “For this upcoming pop-up tomorrow, I have folded 1,200 on my own,” a number she offers matter-of-factly. When Gibson talks about the dumplings she makes, at first her tone is casual. A childhood spent prizing bulk bags of the store-bought variety from Costco with her dad led to eventually making them for friends. “Food for me, as a kid, I just saw how it brought people together,” she says. Now, a culinary degree, years of kitchen experience, and a stint on TV later, Gibson’s hot take on

ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

dumplings is the product of long hours of development to perfect the recipe. “They’re almost self-saucing, so the filling itself has the dumpling sauce that people would normally dunk it into,” Gibson says, a formula she came up with to overcome the frustrations of filling falling out mid-dunk. “I have two main flavors right now: OG pork and OG vegetarian, but will hopefully soon be coming out with another vegetarian recipe that doesn’t have tofu,” to accommodate soy allergies, plus plans for Korean BBQ chicken, shrimp, and curry flavors. If you haven’t yet caught the Dumpling Den popping up, chef Gordon Ramsay fans keeping

up with the latest season of Hell’s Kitchen on FOX are likely familiar with this budding chef. Only 21 at the time of filming, Gibson fit right into the bracket of fresh talent under the age of 24 that season 20 (AKA “Young Guns”) spotlights. “For how young we were, we were very, very cutthroat with each other, which is why I almost loved it even more because we didn’t go easy on each other,” says Gibson. Tracing back an origin story of cooking entranced by Grill it! with Bobby Flay on Food Network, Gibson’s national debut as a contestant on a TV show feels serendipitous. A Johnson & Wales student at the time (who has

Photo courtesy of Brynn Gibson

Brynn Gibson prepares dumplings for a pop-up at Fortnight Wine Bar

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since graduated with a degree in Culinary Dietetics & Food Product Development), the fast-paced and demanding nature of the show was a natural, if not daunting, next step in her career. “Sometimes it was like a war going on in my head of ‘Am I good enough? Am I gonna make it?’ It was crazy and it was fun and I would do it all over again if I could,” Gibson reflects now. Having watched every season of Hell’s Kitchen that came before, working under Gordon Ramsay – the renowned chef known for his fiery temper – was surreal. “He exudes passion – he picks up a spoon and it’s full of passion,” Gibson says, laughing and recounting a time or two when she caught herself missing instruction because she was enthralled simply watching him cook. But along with sharpening her kitchen skills, Gibson explains the show was a test of grit: “It’s more about being mentally tough and understanding that we all have our bad days but not letting those bad days win – and it’s also just doing everything with passion.” Gibson took all of this back with her to Providence, which she now calls home, surrounded by a community of equally enthusiastic foodies. Dumplings have served as a blank canvas for her to experiment with all different fillings and also the vehicle for her to transition from the back waitressing grind at a steakhouse to breaking out on her own. While you’ll have to tune in to see the results of Hell’s Kitchen, Gibson shares some advice for other aspiring young chefs trying to make it in the industry: “You have to take things with a grain of salt, you have to keep your head high, but you also have to remain humble… But it’s definitely worth it when you finally find your niche.”

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thesandwichhut.com 1253 North Main Street, Providence RI • 401-272-2590 • www.thesandwichhut.com • Mon-Sat 10am-6pm ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

FOOD & DRINK

H o t Do gs | By Megan Schmit

Let’s Be Frank Whether you like your hot dogs saucy or snappy, Providence has them all Some foods just scream summer. You know what I mean: ice cream, BBQ, lobster rolls, and basically anything on the grill – which means hello, hot dogs! There’s something nostalgic about this portable bite; maybe it conjures memories of the ballpark, or backyard barbecues, or childhood dinner staples. Some like them slathered in chili and cheese, others prefer a drizzle of classic ketchup, and in Rhody, we even have our own special ways of jazzing up our dogs with a snappy skin or smothered in meat sauce. Read on for a list of where to get your favorites in and around the city.

Hot wieners from Babas Original NY System

CLASSIC DOGS

Haven Brothers This family-owned icon has been dishing out comfort food in the heart of downtown Providence since 1893. Now, their food truck posts up around the state, serving signature Haven Dogs (AKA hot wieners with mustard, relish, onions, celery salt) and more. Cranston, HavenBrothersMobile.com Len’s Hot Dog Haven Find an entire menu dedicated to dogs: plain, cheesy, topped with sauerkraut or chili, and even New York style (cooked onion in red sauce) or Puerto Rican (chili, cheese, kraut, and potato sticks). Pawtucket, LensHotDogHaven.com Weenie Wizard A self-described “roaming mystical hot dog cart” with an adorable mascot to match (sporting a pointy hat and long white beard) that’s known for creative street meats and even veggie dogs. Providence, Facebook: Weenie Wizard

ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

Weiner Genie This no-frills, cash-only neighborhood restaurant features your favorite wieners and hot dogs served with beans for a hearty meal at a price you’d be hard-pressed to beat. Lincoln, Facebook: Weiner Genie

Wein-o-Rama Look for the retro sign with the fun name pointing you towards this classic ‘60s diner known for the “Best Hot Weiners Anywhere” according to their signature menu item. Cranston, Facebook: Wein O Rama

Photos courtesy of (L) Babas New York System, (R) by Judy Garlix

Firehouse Hotdogs You can’t miss this fire engine-red trailer on Putnam Pike, a fan favorite since 1989 for lunch and late-night fast food like classic hot dogs, wieners, chili dogs, and even a double dog served on an eight-inch torpedo roll! Johnston, FirehouseHotdogs.com

HOT WIENERS Our list wouldn’t be complete without our signature NY System or hot wieners, which feature a frank made of beef, veal, and pork, served on a steamed bun and topped with celery salt, yellow mustard, chopped onions, and seasoned meat sauce. Contrary to its name, these franks didn’t originate in New York – they’re strictly a product of Providence.

Whimsical wieners from Weenie Wizard

Baba’s Original New York System, Providence New York Lunch, Woonsocket Olneyville NY System, Cranston & Providence Sam’s New York System, North Providence FRANKS FROM HOME Feeling like a backyard barbecue? Stock up on your favorite style sausage from local makers for chillin’ and grillin’ at home. Chez Pascal & The Wurst Kitchen Restaurant marketplace offering varieties togo, like pork and paprika, cheddarwurst, and, of course, hot dogs. Providence, ChezPron.com Gastros Small-batch artisanal salami and sausages, including hot dogs and kielbasa, handmade from Berkshire Pork and Wagyu Beef. Woonsocket, GastrosCraftMeats.com Little Rhody Brand Frankfurts German-style snappers, jumbos, and skinless franks, plus other specialties like NYS wieners. Johnston, LittleRhodyHotDogs.com Saugy, Inc. Signature snappy sausages AKA “Rhode Island’s First Hot Dog”, beloved since 1869. Cranston, Saugys.com

ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

Fo o d N e w s | By Abbie Lahmers

NYC-style cafe brings chopped cheese to PVD

A cupcake food truck branches out with brunch

International and artisanal goods on Hope Street

“I remember the first time my father and I made a cold cut turkey sub together,” Tanjin Minar reminisces about the bodega her family owned in NYC, where she learned from a young age the ins and outs of running a business. “I was amazed that he was so quick... and how much passion he put

Not only is the Sarcastic Sweets food truck hitching up for new adventures with a fresh brunch menu this month, but a storefront is also in the works for this cupcakery with Alaskan flair. Pastry chef Nina Reed has been bringing big flavors to our little state for some time, and soon a new extension of her busi-

One thing Kevin Hawes found himself missing the most during lockdown last year was having a specialty grocery store nearby like the ones he would frequent while living in bigger cities and traveling Europe. “I recognized that my neighborhood of Fox Point didn’t really have something like that,” Hawes explains, “and I

into making his food.” Today, Minar mirrors this in her recently opened J&T Cafe, where she crafts creative sandwiches with high-quality ingredients in the style of NYC bodega staples, all for under $14. One of Minar’s favorites is a classic Chopped Cheese sandwich: juicy ground beef, melted cheese, and crisp lettuce in a toasted hero roll, with a vegan version coming soon. Hot Pastrami, bagels with Nova Lox, and a Bacon, Egg ‘n Cheese are all on the menu, too, each assembled with care. “My mother always taught us that food is love,” Minar explains. “As a 27-yearold full-time engineer, I want women to know that they can be whoever they want to be and it’s okay to be multi-faceted.” 65 Bath Street, JTCafes.com

ness, the Alaskan Treehouse Cafe will add lunch specials to the mix with healthy offerings like tacos, smoothies, Alaskan coffee, and even a $5 Surprise for the adventurous eater. “A whole lot of sarcasm with a sprinkling of sweetness” is Reed’s motto: “I try to let people know who they’re dealing with and what I have to offer, which is a quality product with no filler.” This means plenty of lactose-free and allergy-sensitive items, along with creative breakfasts like the Pancakewich and Wafflewich with a fried egg or vegan alternative between two pancakes or waffles. Ever versatile, the truck will also be providing concessions all summer for Sarcastic Cinemas, drive-in movies at the RI School for the Deaf, with dates on Instagram at @sarcastic_sweet. SarcasticSweet.com

wanted to see if this was something I could bring to the multicultural residents that live here – a truly metropolitan shopping experience that offers a range of local, regional, and international quality food products.” And so Hawes Fine Foods was born. The new Hope Street market draws from the network of international friends Hawes taps into for authentic items like Cipriani’s Virgin Peach Bellinis, Spring Valley Coffee hand-roasted in Kenya, fine oils and vinegars, and more. Local artisanal brands also make their way onto the shelves: Deep Roots Farm meats, Narragansett Creamery cheese, Rhed’s Hot Sauce, and Chi Kitchen kimchi are just a few, plus seasonal fresh produce. Whether you’re entertaining or stocking your pantry, Hawes aims for a fun foodie experience. 107 Hope Street, HawesFineFoods.com

ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

Photos courtesy of J&T Cafe

FOOD & DRINK

FREE FILM SCREENINGS EVERY THURSDAY JUNE 17 - SEPT 9

rsvp required newportFILM.com | For schedule & event details

Hostess Trays • Salt Water Taffy Wide Assortment of Chocolate Assorted Chocolates • Buttercrunch Turtles • Gourmet Truffles Sugar-Free Chocolates Non-Chocolate Novelties • Gift Baskets WAKEFIELD • 401.783.4433 GARDEN CITY • 401.942.2720 WWW.SWEENORSCHOCOLATES.COM ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

FOOD & DRINK

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At press time, the restaurants on this list were open in some capacity. We strongly advise calling a location first to ensure they are open and what type of service they are offering at this time; many still are reservation-only for in-house and outdoor seating. For the latest updates on regulations visit Health.RI.gov/covid . Original list provided by PWCVB. If we missed your favorite, please let us know. Marketing@ProvidenceOnline.com Al Forno 577 S Water St, Providence | 401-273-9760 AlForno.com | Andino’s 171 Atwells Ave, Providence | 401-453-3164 AndinosProvidence.com | Angelo’s Restaurant 141 Atwells Ave, Providence | 401-621-8171 AngelosRI.com | Anthony’s Authentic Italian Restaurant 441 Atwells Ave, Providence | 401-273-5900 AnthonysOnFederalHill.com | Antonio’s Pizza Thayer Street 256 Thayer St, Providence | 401-455-3600 AntoniosPizza.com | Bacaro Restaurant 262 South Water Street, Providence 401-751-3700, | BacaroRestaurant.net

Bacco Vino & Contorni 262 Atwells Ave, Providence 401-572-0243 | Bacco-RI.com

Bayberry Beer Hall 381 W Fountain St, Providence 401-383-9487 | BayberryBeerHall.com

Big King 3 Luongo Sq, Providence BigKingPVD.com | Blake’s Tavern 122 Washington St, Providence 401-274-1230 | BlakesTavern.com

Blend 57 DePasquale Ave, Providence 401-432-7449 | BlendPVD.com

ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

Blush Bakeshop 408 Atwells Ave, Providence 401-642-9470 | BlushBakeshop.com

Bucktown 471 W Fountain St, Providence 401-343-0441 | Bucktownpvd.com | Cafe Choklad 2 Thomas St, Providence 401-383-4764 |

Cafe Nuovo One Citizens Plaza, Providence 401-421-2525 | CafeNuovo.com

Coffee Connection 32 Custom House St, Providence 401-270-1801 | CoffeeConnectionRI.com

Camille’s 71 Bradford St, Providence | 401-751-4812 CamillesOnTheHill.com |

Coffee Exchange 207 Wickenden St, Providence 401-273-1198 | TheCoffeeExchange.com

Capri Seafood 58 de Pasquale Ave, Providence 401-996-2223 | CapriSeafood.com

Capriccio 2 Pine St, Providence | 401-421-1320 Capriccios.com | Casa Azul Taqueria 890 Allens Ave, Providence 401-414-7799 | CasaAzulRI.com

Caserta Pizzeria 121 Spruce St, Providence | 401-272-3618 CasertaPizzeria.com | Cassarino’s Restaurant 177 Atwells Ave, Providence 401-751-3333 | CassarinosRI.com

CAV 14 Imperial Place, Providence | 401-751-9164 CavRestaurant.com |

Costantino’s Venda Bar & Ristorante 265 Atwells Ave, Providence 401-528-1100 | CostantinosRistorante.com

DASAP 371 Smith St, Providence | 401-293-2727 DASAP.com | Dave & Buster’s of Providence 40 Providence Pl, Providence 401-270-4555 | DaveAndBusters.com

Hemenway’s Restaurant 121 South Main St, Providence 401-351-8570 | HemenwaysRestaurant.com

Lekker BBQ 210 Atwells Ave, Providence 401-285-9999 | LekkerBBQ.com

Hometown Poke 185 Camp St, Providence | 909-217-8534 HometownPoke.com |

Little Sister 737a Hope St (corner with Rochambeau Ave), Providence | 401-642-9464 LittleSisterPVD.com |

Il Massimo 134 Atwells Ave, Providence 401-273-0650 | Providence.MassimoRI.com

India Restaurant 1060 Hope St, Providence | 401-421-2600 IndiaRestaurant.com |

Los Andes Restaurant 903 Chalkstone Ave, Providence 401-649-4911 | LosAndesRI.com

Lucia’s Mexican Restaurant 154 Atwells Ave, Providence | 401-228-6550 LuciasMexican.com |

Jacky’s Waterplace & Sushi Bar Restaurant 200 Exchange St, Providence 401-383-5000 | JackysGalaxie.com

Marcelino’s Boutique Bar 1 West Exchange St, Providence 401-666-0088 | MarcelinosBoutiqueBar.com

Flatbread Company 161 Cushing St, Providence | 401-273-2737 FlatbreadCompany.com |

Jahunger Restaurant 333 Wickenden St, Providence 401-479-9992 | Jahunger.com |

Mare Rooftop 229 Waterman St, Providence 401-336-6273 | MareRoofTop.com

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar 1 West Exchange St, Providence 401-533-9000 | FlemingsSteakHouse.com

Joe Marzilli’s Old Canteen Italian Restaurant 120 Atwells Ave, Providence 401-751-5544 | TheOldCanteen.com

Massimo Ristorante 134 Atwells Ave, Providence | 401-273-0650 Massimori.com |

Gracie’s 194 Washington St, Providence | 401-272-7811 GraciesProv.com |

Julian’s 318 Broadway, Providence | 401-861-1770 JuliansProvidence.com |

Great Northern BBQ Co. 9 Parade St, Providence | 401-421-1513

Kabob and Curry 261 Thayer St, Providence | 401-273-8844 KabobAndCurry.com |

Gregg’s Restaurants & Taverns 1303 North Main St, Providence 401-831-5700 | GreggsUSA.com

KG Kitchen Bar 771 Hope St,Providence | 401-331-4100 KGKitchenBar.com |

Mokban Korean Bistro 217 Westminster St, Providence 401-331-1651 | Mokban.com |

Kleos 250 Westminster St, Providence 401-443-4083 |

Murphy’s 100 Fountain St, Providence 401-621-8467 | MurphysProvidence.com

Fellini’s Pizzeria 166 Wickenden St, Providence | 401-751-6737 FelliniPizzeria.com |

Harry’s Bar & Burger 301 Atwells Ave, Providence | 401-228-3336 HarrysBarBurger.com | Harry’s Bar & Burger 121 North Main St, Providence | 401-228-7437 HarrysBarBurger.com |

KNEAD Doughnuts 135 Elmgrove Ave, Providence 401-865-6622 | KneadDoughnuts.com

McBride’s Pub 161 Wayland Ave, Providence | 401-751-300 McBrides-Pub.com | Mill’s Tavern 101 North Main St, Providence 401-272-3331 | MillsTavernRestaurant.com

Nami Japanese Restaurant 198 Atwells Ave, Providence | 401-383-6559 NamiProv.com ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

FOOD & DRINK

O utd oor Di ni ng |

Indoor Dining |

C u rb s i d e P i cku p |

D el i very |

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Nara Lounge & Restaurant 248 Atwells Ave, Providence 401-273-6272 | NaraProvidence.com

Panera Bread 43 Providence Pl, Providence 401-248-0020 | PaneraBread.com

Public Kitchen & Bar 120 Francis St, Providence | 401-919-5050 Facebook: Public Kitchen & Bar

Needle & Thread 54 Peck St, Providence | 401-437-8725 NeedleNThreadPVD.com |

Parkside Rotisserie & Bar 76 South Main St, Providence 401-331-0003 | ParksideProvidence.com

Pure Lounge 387 Atwells Ave, Providence 401-861-0796 | PureLoungeProv.com

Pasta Beach 195 Wayland Ave, Providence | 401-270-0740 PastaBeach.com |

PVDonuts 79 Ives St, Providence | PVDonuts.com |

Pastiche Fine Desserts 92 Spruce St, Providence | 401-861-5190 PasticheFineDesserts.com | Persimmon Restaurant 99 Hope St, Providence | 401-432-7422 PersimmonRI.com |

North 122 Fountain St, Providence FoodbyNorth.com |

PiANTA Vegan Restaurant 65 Bath St, Providence | 401-499-5354 PiantaVeganRestaurant.com |

Oberlin 186 Union St, Providence 401-588-8755 | OberlinRestaurant.com

Piemonte 114 Doyle Ave, Providence | 401-273-0999 PiemontePizza.com |

Ocean State Sandwich Company 155 Westminster St, Providence 401-521-6772 | SandwichRI.com

Olneyville New York System Restaurant 20 Plainfield St, Providence | 401-621-9500 OlneyvilleNewYorkSystem.com | Opa Restaurant 230 Atwells Ave, Providence 401-351-8282 | OpaProvidence.com

P.F. Chang’s 111 Providence Pl, Providence 401-270-4665 | PFChangs.com

Pane e Vino Ristorante 365 Atwells Ave, Providence | 401-223-2230 PaneVino.net | 68

ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

Plaza Bar & Kitchen 59 DePasquale Ave, Providence 401-331-8240 | PlazaKitchenBar.com

Pot au Feu 44 Custom House St, Providence 401-273-8953 | PotAuFeuRI.com | Providence Coal Fired Pizza 385 Westminster St, Providence 401-454-7499 ProvidenceCoalFiredPizza.com

Providence G Pub 61 Orange St, Providence 401-632-4782 | ProvidenceGPub.com

Providence Oyster Bar 283 Atwells Ave, Providence 401-272-8866 | ProvOysterBar.com

Rebelle Artisan Bagels 110 Doyle Ave (corner with Camp St), Providence | RebelleArtisanBagels.com

Red Stripe 465 Angell St, Providence 401-437-6950 | RedStripeRestaurants.com

Rhode Island Billiards Bar & Bistro 2026 Smith St. N, Providence 401-232-1331 | RIBBB.com | Rogue Island Local Kitchen & Bar 65 Weybosset St, Ste 108, Providence 401-831-3733 | RogueIslandGroup.com

Roma Ristorante & Deli Café 310 Atwells Ave, Providence 401-331-5000 | RomaProv.net

Rooftop at the Providence G 100 Dorrance St, Providence 401-632-4904 | RooftopAtTheG.com

Sicilia’s Pizzeria 181 Atwells Ave, Providence 401-273-9222 | SiciliasOnline.com

Sin 1413 Westminster St, Providence 401-369-8427 | EatWicked.com | Small Point Cafe 230 Westminster St, Providence 401-228-6999 | SmallPointCafe.com

Snookers Sports, Billiards, Bar & Grill 53 Ashburton St, Providence 401-351-7665 | SnookersRI.com

South Beach Restaurant & Lounge 338 Atwells Ave, Providence 401-455-1200 Facebook: SouthBeachProvidence

Sura 232 Westminster St, Providence 401-277-9088 | SuraProvidence.com

Tallulah’s Taqueria 146 Ives St, Providence | 401-272-8226 TallulahsTaqueria.com | Taste of Rhode Island Tour 1 Eddy St, Providence | 401-886-0733 ExperienceRI.com/Taste-Of-RhodeIsland-Tour | Tavolo Wine Bar & Tuscan Grille 289 Atwells Ave, Providence 401-274-6000 | TavoloWineBar.com

Ten Prime Steak & Sushi 55 Pine St,Providence | 401-453-2333 TenPrimeSteakandSushi.com

Terra Luna Café 57 De Pasquale Ave, Providence 401-432-7449 | TerraLunaCafe.com

The Abbey 686 Admiral St, Providence | 401-351-4346 92Beers.com | The Capital Grille 10 Memorial Blvd, Providence 401-521-5600 | TheCapitalGrille.com

The District 54 South St, Providence | 401-421-0050 TheDistrictRI.com | The East End 244 Wickenden St, Providence 401-433-9770 | TheEastEndPVD.com

The George 121 Washington St, Providence 401-642-6840 TheGeorge-OnWashington.com

The Malted Barley 334 Westminster St, Providence 401-490-0300 | TheMaltedBarley.com

The River Social 200 Exchange St, Providence 401-256-5686 | TheRiverSocial.com

The Rosendale 55 Union St, Providence | 401-421-3253 TheRosendaleRI.com | The Salted Slate 186 Wayland Ave, Providence 401-270-3737 | SaltedSlate.com

Trinity Brewhouse 186 Fountain St, Providence 401-453-2337 | TrinityBrewhouse.com

Troop PVD 60 Valley St, Providence 401-473-2900 | TroopPVD.com

Union Station Brewery 36 Exchange Terr, Providence 401-274-2739 | UnionStationPVD.com

Uno Chicago Grill 82 Providence Pl, Providence 401-270-4866 | Unos.com

Venda Ravioli Inc. 265 Atwells Ave, Providence 401-421-9105 | VendaRavioliStore.com

Vino Veritas 486 Broadway, Providence 401-383-2001 | VinoVeritasRI.com

Waterman Grille 4 Richmond Sq, Providence 401-521-9229 | WatermanGrille.com

Wok & Pot 333 Westminster St, Providence 401-274-0276 | WoknPot.com

Xaco Taco 370 Richmond St, Providence 401-228-8286 | XacoTacoRI.com

Y Noodle & Bar 425 W Fountain St #100, Providence 401-661-9666 | YNoodleBar.com

Yoleni’s 292 Westminster St, Providence 401-500-1127 | Providence.Yolenis.com

ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

SERVICE DIRECTORY The Finest in New England Craftmanship

Boreal Remodeling General Home Repair, including Kitchens,Baths, Decks & Additions Reg. # 22013

Michael Packard • (401) 441-7303

David Onken Painting

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Retirement Medicare 101 Finding the Right Medicare Option for You

Jeffrey G. Brier CLU, ChFC, CASL Contact Sue At: SueH@RhodyBeat.com or call

401-732-3100 70

Levine Painting Co., Inc. Interior, Exterior, Residential/Commercial Wallpaper Hanging, Power Washing, Staining 25 Years Experience (401) 885-1580 • (401) 323-6100 cell R.I. Lic 7140 Liab/ Work Comp Insured

WE SPECIALIZE IN PAINTING & CARPENTRY Experts in Water Problems

From Roofs, Gutters & Basements Over 20 years of experience on historical homes Certified Lead Renovated LRM #0514 RI Reg #7302 • Fully Insured

ri Contr 937 MP #1578 MPF 1355

Deadline for August Providence Monthly: June 30th

Prompt, Reliable Quality Work

ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

Brier & Brier Insurance & Employee Benefits 469 Angell Street • Suite 2 • Providence • 02906 120 Lavan St. • Warwick • 02888 • 401-751-2990 cell 401-837-4475 • fax 401-633-6658 www.brier-brier.com • jbrier@brier-brier.com

GET IT DONE! CALL AL MEDINA TODAY

(401) 438-8771 • (401) 323-8252 • medinagroup@hotmail.com

AUDIO/VIDEO HELP Home theater, TV or stereo? Jon Bell, Simply Sight & Sound, 383-4102. Reasonable rates. 30+ yrs exp.

AND

HOME & BUSINESS SERVICES

BEYOND THE PALE Quality interior painting, color consulting, lead certified, green products. Lic. #15914. Call Mike 401-573-4498. EAST SIDE HANDYMAN Carpentry, painting and repairs. Small jobs welcome. References, insured. 401-524-6421. Reg. #3052. MALIN PAINTING Most ceiling & wall repairs, wallpaper removal, oil-based & latex finishes, staining, varnishing. Fully insured, Many local references. Safe, secure, fast service. 226-8332. Reg. #19226.

are collaborating to make a BIG difference in our small state! All proceeds benefit the Rhode Island Community Food Bank. Illustration by Abigail Brown

PURCHASE YOURS AT FROGANDTOADSTORE.COM

SUPERB HOUSEPAINTING High end workmanship. Small jobs a specialty. Call Ron, 751-3242, or 523-2343. Reg. #18128.

WANTED

PIANO INSTRUCTION Providence studio. Concert pianist. Juilliard graduate. Advanced and Intermediate students only. Write to: bsklavier2@gmail.com OFFICE SPACE For rent in Holistic Health Center on Providence’s East Side. Shared waiting room, large (12x16) room, zone heating, good light, good parking. For details, call Mark Brody, MD at 401-861-4643. USED MUSIC WANTED! Round Again Records needs your used CDs and records. Cash paid. Call 351-6292.

ADVERTISE HERE Line Ads Start at $20 Per Month. Contact Sue at SueH@RhodyBeat.com Deadline for August Providence Monthly June 30th

Local news for Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts ProvidenceOnline.com • July 2021

Ph oto cour tesy of Lena

Pic of PVD

Golden hour glow over the Providence River Bridge

ABOUT LENA @lenahmiro Creative dentist on the clock, photographer and drone enthusiast after hours.

93 NAYATT ROAD | BARRINGTON, RI $5, 5 00,000

7BD 8 F 3H BA 1 .67 Acres

401 .4 47.3062

27 KNAPTON STREET | BARRINGTON, RI

20 CINDY LANE | CRANSTON, RI

$1 ,9 95,000

$989,900

5BD 3BA 4,000SF

401 .383.09 9 9

4BD 3F 1H BA 6.67 Acres

4 01 .524.05 63

N O. 1 I N R H O D E I S L A N D L U X U RY R E A L E STAT E * 311 RESERVOIR ROAD | BURRILLVILLE, RI $795,000

2BD 2F 1H BA 2 ,112SF

401 .383.09 9 9

details@liladelman.com

4 0 1 . 2 74 .1 6 4 4

Lila Delman Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. *#1 luxury ranking based on highest volume of 2020 $1M+ sales in RI. Based on info. from RI Statewide MLS for period 1/1/20-12/31/20.

406Blackstone.com

406 Blackstone Boulevard East Side of Providence | $1,295,000

Jim DeRentis 401.529.2188

RESIDENTIAL

343 Doyle Avenue East Side of Providence | $745,000

55 Grenore Street Warwick | $420,000

Barrington 401.245.9600

116 Blaisdell Avenue East Side of Providence | $499,000

Gerri Schiffman 401.474.3733

Barbara Rhine 401.578.7377

Cumberland 401.333.9333

PROPERTIES

125 Prospect Street, Unit #8 East Side of PVD | $350,000

East Greenwich 401.885.8400

Narragansett 401.783.2474

Kelly Zexter 401.225.0502

Newport 401.619.5622

Jim DeRentis 401.529.2188

1 Wayland Avenue, Unit #102S East Side of PVD | $329,000

401.274.6740 Providence West Side PVD 401.274.6740 401.457.3400

Paula Morrison 401.447.7840

401.457.3400 Westport MA 508.636.4760

Providence Monthly July 2021

Articles inside

Food News: Bodega

Hot dog joints and NY System wieners

Summer cocktails served as sorbet

Influencer: Angela

Home: A Blackstone neighborhood home renovated to accommodate busy family life

Live music returns to the Ocean State

Op-Ed: Imagining what could have been for our beloved baseball team

Former PVD pop-up rethinks luggage

The very Rhody life and times of artist Billy Montella, Jr.

Rhody Gem: A plant

The Public’s Radio