SO Rhode Island January 2021 by Hey Rhody Media Co.

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In This Issue

So Rhode Island January 2021 High Tide Juice Co. Photo by Ron Cowie

Food for Thought South County grocers, juicers, and more to help you have a nutritious New Year

25 Financial Guide What you need to know about taxes, saving, investing, and more in 2021

Photo courtesy of South County Bread Co.

The Scoop

Life & Style

13 South County Tourism

43 HOME: A Narragansett home with

Council launches podcast

mid-century appeal inside and out

14 Get outdoors for these

46 WELLNESS: What area fitness studios

winter adventures around

are offering right now

Photo courtesy of Ann Scavone

the state

48 INFLUENCER: Meet the hilarious 16 Rhody Pets: Letting the pros

Brendan Kirby of The Rhode Show

handle wildlife

50 SHOP: Tray chic accents and more 18 Q&A with Westerly native and rapper Big Lux

by a local maker

Food & Drink

56 FOOD NEWS: New Italian market,

20 CALENDAR: This month’s

53 Oysters delivered to your car?

pantry goods for pick-up, and local

must-do’s

Yes, please.

seafood online

22 RHODY GEM: Family-run

54 New business delivers entertaining

South County Scenes

fresh bread biz in Kingston Pizza

workshops via Zoom

58 A stunning image from a local lens

ON THE COVER: BŌL, Photography by Nick DelGiudice. 6

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Alex Nunes

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JANUARY ONLY

The Scoop

so & so | calendar | rhody gem

Helena Tafuri, host of The Wavelength

SOUND WAVES South County Tourism Council launches podcast to highlight local businesses and nonprofits Bill Nye once said, “Everyone you meet knows something you don’t.” For Helena Tafuri, the Science Guy’s saying served as inspiration for The Wavelength, a new podcast by South County Tourism Council. “My team and I were having a meeting, brainstorming how we could continue promoting our region and Rhode Island as a whole,” explains Tafuri, who acts as social media coordinator for the Council. The goal was to create exposure for local nonprofits and businesses in a new way, and Tafuri floated the idea of a podcast. Armed with the team’s support and an avid podcast listener herself, she hit the ground running. “Not only is South County and Rhode Island filled with knowledgeable people, but it’s also filled with people with remarkable stories,” Tafuri says, laying out the premise of the podcast. “I’ve been lucky enough to sit down and learn about some fascinating subjects and industries right in our backyard.” The format of the podcast is casual and conversational: “almost like getting coffee with a friend,” Tafuri adds. Her first guest was Lorén Spears, executive director of the Tomaquag Museum in Exeter, who chatted with Tafuri about programming, the museum’s history, and inspiring Indigenous figures. She’s also spoken with Chris Fox from the Wood Pawcatuck Watershed Association, naturalist Mark Bullinger, executive director Jim Crothers of the South County Museum, and astronomer Scott McNeill from Frosty Drew on topics as far ranging as Narragansett in the Gilded Age to what stars can be spotted in a Rhode Island winter sky. The most recent episode digs into aquaculture and the start of Matunuck Oyster Bar with owner Perry Raso. “In this small state we have so many compelling stories and fascinating people,” says Tafuri, “and I can’t wait to talk to all of them.” Listen to The Wavelength on Sound Cloud and learn more about South County Tourism Council at SouthCountyRI.com. | By Megan Schmit Photo courtesy of South Country Tourism Council; SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

The Scoop | so & so | By Bob Curley

Rhode Trippin’: Winter Adventures Give COVID the cold shoulder with these safe outdoor activities Some say that Rhode Islanders don’t like going anywhere more than 10 minutes from home, but with the travel bug biting, many of us are now looking for in-state ideas for an afternoon, daytrip, or staycation. Each month, Bob Curley, author of 100 Things to Do in Rhode Island Before You Die, will share about places to go within our own state – this month, he takes us on a series of outdoor adventures. Love to ski? You won’t need any special dispensations to hit the slopes at Exeter’s Yawgoo Valley Ski Area – just a few extra precautions to make a day (or night) of skiing, boarding, or tubing a safe and fun time. From taking your temp at home to respiratory etiquette, it’s all detailed online at Yawgoo.com.

SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

Yawgoo’s 246 feet of vertical drop would make it a mogul at Vail or even Stowe, but the park’s short lift rides and 14 trails make it perfect for getting in a few hours of snow play. Lodge access will be limited this season, but so will ticket sales, so one COVID-19 silver lining is shorter lift lines and less skiers on the trails (similarly, timed tickets will keep Yawgoo’s seven-lane snow tubing park an uncrowded experience for maximum sliding excitement). Roger Williams Park Zoo, which is open all winter from Thursday through Monday, also is selling limited tickets in advance and making zoo walkways one-way only to ensure social distancing. The arrival of winter also means more opportunities to encounter some of

Rhode Island’s year-round wildlife in their natural habitat, like the snowy owls that nest in Newport’s Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge and the harbor seals sunning on the rocks off of Rome Point in North Kingstown. COVID or no, the sun will continue to rise each morning at Beavertail State Park, and when winter nights make their too-early arrival, it’s time to bundle up and head down to Ninigret Park in Charlestown for stargazing at the Frosty Drew Observatory, which continues to host public events (advance tickets required) on Friday nights. Biking and hiking, of course, have become incredibly popular as Rhode Islanders have looked for safe outdoor activities during COVID-19 quarantine periods, so don your hat

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and mittens for a winter stroll on Newport’s Cliff Walk, or discover the wild oasis of Neutaconkanut Hill in the Silver Lake neighborhood of Providence. Skating is also back at both the Bank Newport City Center in Kennedy Plaza in Providence, along with the perverse pleasure of ramming your friends across the ice during a bumper car session. The Washington Trust Community Skating Center is open for carving icy turns in downtown Westerly, and while there’s no skating this year at Gurney’s Newport resort, you can still chill out with igloo dining at the Showfish restaurant. Let’s admit it, warming up with a hot toddy by the fire pits on the resort’s rink-side deck is a COVID-safe activity I’ll drink to anytime.

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Rhody Pets

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While this column is titled Rhody Pets, it is important to note that wild animals are not pets. This story highlights the work of wildlife rehabilitation and conservation, which is an important role in protecting and caring for the animal kingdom.

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Nestled in Saunderstown is one very small clinic with one very big job: Providing veterinary and rehabilitative care to every species of animal in the state. The Wildlife Clinic is operated by the Wildlife Rehabilitators Association of Rhode Island (WRARI), a nonprofit founded in 1993 by Dr. Meredith Bird, one of the only vets at the time willing to treat injured wildlife. Since then, the tiny hub has been run by one full-time and four seasonal part-time staff members, an army of dedicated volunteers (including rehabilitators, transporters, board of directors, and veterinarians), and seen over 5,000 animals per year. “For many people, their only close encounter with a wild animal may be when they find one injured,” explains Arianna Mouradjian, licensed rehabilitator and Director of Operations for the organization. “It is vitally important that they have resources and a place to bring that animal knowing that it will receive the best care to ensure its potential release.” The clinic intakes everything from mice to eagles, to Rabies Vector Species (RVS) like raccoons, woodchucks, red and gray foxes, skunks, and bats. Those injured or orphaned animals are cared for in the homes of licensed rehabilitators – the training,

support, and resources of which are provided by WRARI – with the ultimate goal of returning them to the wild. Since COVID, Mouradjian says, they’ve had to make changes to operations. First, fundraisers were cancelled and training had to go digital. Intake and cleaning procedures have been modified to ensure the highest measure of safety, clinic volunteers have been reduced, masks and additional PPE are mandatory, and in-home rehabilitators have found ways to limit human-to-human interaction. However, WRARI’s mission has not changed: “The care, respect, and conservation of our native species is vital in our roles as stewards of the earth and it is important, and also a component of our mission, to not only teach but live the truth that compassion is universal and we should not exploit our native wildlife without care.” That, Mouradjian continues, can mean the endangerment or even extinction of some of our animal species – “We lose a part of ourselves and our humanity when we destroy what is wild,” she says. Thankfully, there are things we can do to help if we stumble across a wild animal in need. First, WRARI advises, we should call

Photos courtesy of The Wildlife Clinic

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the clinic immediately at 401-294-6363 – before trying to rescue or handle it ourselves. “Laws, handling considerations, and transport guidelines differ depending on the animal,” Mouradjian explains. For example, baby deer are often found alone and we might think to take them in, but in reality, mother deer often leave their offspring for hours; in this case, an intervention is not necessary, and could actually cause more harm if the baby cannot be reunited successfully. Then there’s the specifics of dealing with RVS animals, which by law, must be euthanized and rabies tested if handled by bare hands to determine the risk of virus transmission. “It works best for us to guide people in real-time before they take action.” Interested in learning more and getting involved? Visit RIWildlifeRehab.org.

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The Scoop | so & so |

By Alex Nunes

In partnership with The Public’s Radio

Rapper ‘Big Lux’ is on a big musical mission Musician Kevin Lowther, aka Big Lux, is many things: a West Point grad, Iraq War veteran, activist, Black American, violinist, rapper, Westerly native and Barrington resident. He left the Army in 2017 after 13 years of service and has since become a full-time musician. Big Lux spoke to [The Public’s Radio] reporter Alex Nunes about music, war, activism, and his concerns about political division in America. BIG LUX: I think that is getting in the way of this common good. People [are] just trying to dig in on both sides instead of doing what’s right for the people, and it’s frustrating to see. NUNES: Do you see similarities with what you saw as a service member in other countries?

NUNES: The song “Chasing Bombs,” that is about your experience in Iraq. Can you explain to me what you’re trying to convey in that song? BIG LUX: The frustration at being in a place where you know that your life might be wasted. There’s something so elemental about that and completely overwhelming and frustrating to know that, if I die tomorrow, it might not be in defense of something that was absolutely necessary. There are very valid times to go to war when you need to: to protect your national interest, to protect your family, to protect everything that you hold dear. That was not one of those times. We ended up doing more damage to ourselves and to the people of Iraq.

SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

Kevin Lowther, aka Big Lux, plays at a gathering of activists in downtown Westerly on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2020.

NUNES: How did you go from being fulltime in the military to then, within a few years, doing what you’re doing? BIG LUX: I realized that I had an opportunity to do this music full-time. I had enough clients. I was building a reputation. I was building a following. And I was like, “Wow, if I have an opportunity to do this, I have to take it.” And so I came back to Rhode Island, because that’s where I had my people, that’s where my network was the best. And once I got here, I realized that I can’t just play music, especially as a Black man who’s going to be in front of a lot of white audiences. I feel like I have a responsibility to help bridge the gap between the two worlds. And Black entertainers are always put in this position. And I feel like I have the platform to do it, so I’m gonna have to do it.

NUNES: So how do you speak out? You’re saying you feel compelled that you need to say something in those situations. What do you do exactly? BIG LUX: The biggest problem that you have is that, a lot of times, people who don’t want to hear the message that I have to say, and other Black entertainers have to say, they spend so much time trying to legislate the way that we’re telling our message versus the actual message. They’re not going to come out and say, “This is bogus. No Black people are being killed; police are doing everything right; everything is great in the hood.” They will come out and say, “You’re not supposed to take a knee; you’re not supposed to be that loud; shut up and dribble.” And they’ll try to come at us that way.

Photo (L) by Alex Nunes, (R) courtesy of Big Lux

BIG LUX: I do see some similarities, and it’s unfortunate. In Iraq, you will see extremes, like, you can’t have this road go to this Sunni area, or this Shiite area – people might do what they can to destroy or obstruct it so that the “other side” can’t use it, instead of having a public transportation system that benefits everybody. I’m really scared of America going down that route, where we can’t do things for each other, because we think it’s going to benefit the other side.

Musician Big Lux is pictured in this promotional photo

So you have to almost be stealthy about it in a way. This summer, because of George Floyd, and because of everything that happened due to his murder, we’ve been able to be a little bit more explicit about it. So I’ve been able to go to more protests. I’ve been able to write more songs about it. I’ve been able to hold Facebook Live sessions to talk about it and to try to introduce certain concepts. I’m having more one-on-one conversations with people. NUNES: When you’re trying to educate people on race and racism, and you’re playing the violin, does the violin help you do that? BIG LUX: The violin is so amazing. It’s a great common denominator. I think it resonates so well with people, because it mimics the sound of the human voice better than any other instrument. So it almost acts as a Trojan Horse in a way. And it gets me into spaces that I would not ordinarily get into. And I get to play music, and hip hop music, in places that ordinarily wouldn’t have that kind of music. So I think it’s been a really good way for me to just introduce myself.

And I think it’s one of the most beautiful sounds in the world. NUNES: When you are playing, say, you’re playing a public event, and you’re playing covers, then you start talking in a political way. Have you ever had people come up to you and say, “I don’t like that. Stick to the covers”? BIG LUX: No one has been that bold yet. But I sense the time is coming. I, honestly, almost hope it happens sometime. Because that’s where the real growth, and that’s where the real communication, can happen. If I’m playing all to people who 100 percent agree with everything I’m saying, then I’m preaching to the choir. And it’s cool; we’re gonna pump ourselves up, but we’re not really gonna make real change. And we’re not going to really bridge the divide. And that is the most important thing right now. NUNES: The song “Red March” is a lot about civil rights, civil rights history. What was the inspiration for that song? BIG LUX: I had been reading some John

Lewis. It was part of a three part series that he wrote called March. He detailed his journey through the civil rights era. And it really stuck with me – his march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge, and just police met them, and they beat up these marchers badly. And he was marching for voting rights, one of the most fundamental parts of our democracy. And I realized that all the things that I wanted to change about the country right now, I could probably do by marching. NUNES: Where do you want to go from here? What are your goals? BIG LUX: I’m working on my next album. I definitely want to put that out early 2021. But everybody’s got them long term goals. For me, as a musician growing up in Rhode Island, I think my longest term goal is to play at the Newport Jazz Festival. Man, that will be the ultimate. You can listen to Big Lux’s music and follow updates on his events at Spotify, Instagram, and his official website.

SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

The Scoop | calendar •

Experience the BENEFITS of FITNESS!

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THE MUST LIST

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January 11-12: The Coast Guard House will be cast in the soft glow of flickering candles for their themed Candlelight Dinners – reserve a spot for a romantic winter date night. Narragansett, TheCoastGuardHouse.com

Through January:

The Providence Rink is open for the season and hosting COVID-friendly private and group skating lessons with professional ice skaters to help you brush up on your skills. TheProvidenceRink.com

January 25:

January 15-February 7:

January 29:

Wickford Art Association’s Black ‘n White exhibit opens with local artists’ interpretations of color (or lack thereof), negative space, and themes including race relations. North Kingstown, WickfordArt.org

Take a virtual journey to the Highlands for Burns Night: The Home Edition live from the Providence Athenæum, featuring poetry, guided scotch tastings, a costume contest, and a few surprises. ProvidenceAthenaeum.org

Bring the family to the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium for Stories in the Sky, a celestial tour of the constellations overhead and their many legends, plus a take-home hot cocoa kit. Bristol, ASRI.org

Photos courtesy of The Coast Guard House

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The Scoop | rhody gem |

By Abbie Lahmers

South County Bread Company Bakery

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: A family-run business baking up hand-crafted, artisan breads, all free of additives and preservatives and made by sourcing as much as possible from local farms.

What makes it a Rhody Gem? It’s time to put aside the pandemic-purchase bread maker and let the pros step in! South County Bread Company owners Jeff and Keri Lyn Collins have been at it for years, using only nutritious whole grains to make artisan loaves packed with flavor and character. The racks of warm bread you’ll find inside are all made with natural leavening – no instant yeast – and a combination of organic and local flour from Kenyon Grist Mill. “The difference between this flour and store-bought is that the flour I’m using is milled the old-fashioned way,” explains Jeff, “between two granite slabs, milled slow and cool to make sure that none of the important nutrients in the grain is stripped.” Plexiglass partitions and bread cases allow for safe shopping, and Jeff notes that many customers say the online pre-order system makes it feel like the loaves were made special for them. And in a way, they are, or at least the creative offerings named after different South County towns, like Bonnet Baguettes and Matunuck Multigrain, certainly puts the “home” in “homemade.”

South County Bread Company 63 Briar Lane, Kingston SoCoBreadCo.com • @southcountybread

SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

Photo courtesy of South County Bread Company

Where to find it: The relatively new bread company shares a spot with URI staple Kingston Pizza in the little red brick building on Briar Lane.

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

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FINANCIAL GUIDE 20

After an unprecedented year, how to prep your finances for the one ahead We’ve emerged from a turbulent year defined by a global pandemic, lockdowns, civil unrest, landmark election, and one of the worst economic downturns of the century. However, 2021 brings new hope for both health and wealth, and we’ve got the inside scoop on everything you need to know to prep for this year’s tax season, save for a rainy day, deal with debt, and more.

Elyse Major & Megan Schmit

ECONOMIC OUTLOOK 2021

FINANCIAL GUIDE 2021 • Taxes

Before we dive into the nitty gritty, let’s take a look at what we can expect from the economy in 2021. Here’s what you need to know:

COVID-19 & YOUR TAXES

Quick Tax Tips:

This tax season might be more confusing than ever with a stimulus payment and/or unemployment factored in. Thankfully, there are a few things you can prepare for now so you get the most out of your tax return.

• Check withholding. This is the amount withheld by an employer that acts as partial payment of income tax; according to the IRS, most employees are over-withheld, which results in a refund.

• Thanks to the coronavirus relief bill, you can be eligible to reduce your income by up to $300 for charitable contributions made this last year – just make sure you have the proper documentation for any of those cash, check, or credit card payments.

• Opt for electronic. By combining direct deposit with electronic filing, you’re more likely to get your refund fast (and avoid it getting lost, stolen, or unable to be delivered).

• The rollout of a vaccine, which was first announced in Rhode Island mid-November, will mean a boost for businesses as people grow more comfortable with venturing out and spending – safely. • Under President-elect Joe Biden, we can expect some sort of stimulus package (likely around $1 trillion, Goldman Sachs predicts) that will inject some life back into the economy. • While the second wave of cases has prompted a more conservative outlook, the trend for GDP estimates remains positive: the IMF predicts a growth of 3.1 percent in the US this year. • If we assume history repeats itself, we can expect the economy to rebound after this second round of restrictions is lifted – as it did in spring. • Banks are likely to keep interest rates low for a while (perhaps even into 2023, according to the Federal Reserve), which means people are more willing to borrow money for big purchases like cars and houses.

SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

• A special line is reserved for a “recovery rebate credit”, so if your 2020 tax return has a smaller Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) than the one used to calculate your initial stimulus payment, or if you have additional dependents, you may receive the credit. • If you were impacted by COVID-19 – quarantined, furloughed, laid-off, hours reduced, etc. – you can qualify for a retirement plan provision that includes no 10 percent penalty if you take a distribution under the age of 59½; however, the distribution will be spread over three years and must be repaid in that timeframe to avoid taxation.

• Stay organized. Keep all of your paperwork in one place so it’s easily accessible for tax prep time. • Get help. Low- and modest-income Rhode Islanders may qualify for free help from Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) when it comes to filing and applying for tax credits. Check EconomicProgressRI.org for locations.

Are you wondering what’s next? Market volatility has become a fact of life. What does this mean for your investments? Are you prepared for the increase risk volatility may have on your portfolio? Should you make changes and adjust your plan? Working with a Morgan Stanley Financial Advisor can help you navigate through these volatile times by helping you review your plan, making adjustments and keeping you informed along the way. Contact me to see how I can help you or provide a second opinion.

Joanne M. Daly CDFA™ Family Wealth Advisor First Vice President Financial Advisor One Financial Plaza 19th Floor Providence, RI 02903 & Virtual Meetings 401-863-8467 Joanne.Daly@morganstanley.com advisor.morganstanley.com/joanne.daly NMLS# 1510426

The use of the CDFA™ designation does not permit the rendering of legal advice by Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors which may only be done by a licensed attorney. The CDFA™ designation is not intended to imply that either Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors are acting as experts in this field. Morgan Stanley recommends that investors independently evaluate particular investments and strategies, and encourages investors to seek the advice of a Financial Advisor. The appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor’s individual circumstances and objectives. © 2020 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.

FAS016 CRC 3019946 04/20 CS 9829639 05/20

FINANCIAL GUIDE 2021 • Saving

DO’S AND DON’TS WHEN SAVING DURING A CRISIS There are hundreds of tips out there to help you save money – but what about right now? Chances are, COVID-19 might have given your accounts a blow, whether from making less while on unemployment or seeing savings yields decrease due to low interest rates. Here are some rules of thumb to save some dough until the economy returns to normal.

DON’T spend unnecessarily: This might seem obvious, but start with canceling any memberships that don’t make sense right now (that gym you haven’t been to since pre-pandemic, perhaps) and any subscriptions you rarely use, like music streaming services. The top priority is to make sure your bare essentials – rent or mortgage, utilities, food – are covered, so you might even need to consider not paying off your credit card in full during hard times.

DON’T dip into savings without a plan: If you do have to take from savings, make sure to think ahead. How much do you really need to withdraw? What will you be spending it on? Settle on a minimum you want to keep in your account, and make a plan to replenish.

DON’T underestimate energy savings : You can lower your energy bill by up to 30 percent by making even small changes. Shorter showers and washing laundry on cold can reduce your hot water bill while adjusting your fridge/freezer temp and keeping the thermostat 10-15 degrees lower while asleep or away can reduce your heating and cooling costs. Plus, National Grid offers no-cost home energy audits to provide you with a plan to save and become more energy efficient.

SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

DO budget: Whether you create a spreadsheet or use your bank app’s budgeting feature, there’s an easy way to think about this: the 50/30/20 rule. Fifty percent of your budget should be spent on “needs” like groceries, utilities, housing, insurance, transportation, etc.; 30 percent (or less!) should be spent on “wants” like shopping, dining out, or hobbies; and 20 percent should be saved (though during a crisis, that number might be adjusted; see further down).

DO adjust savings goals: You might have a certain dollar amount you’re putting away each month, but reset expectations – it’s okay to change that number to fit your current needs. Also note that, as mentioned above, lower interest rates means your savings account might not yield as much growth as before, but don’t worry, this won’t be forever.

DO tap into local resources: If you find yourself struggling financially to provide the basics for you or your family, don’t be afraid to seek help from the community, whether it’s through food banks, mental health services, or childcare.

Our team is committed to understanding your challenges and goals, and to developing customized, comprehensive financial plans that align with your hopes for the future. Give us a call at 860-572-4040, or visit chelseagroton.com to understand the benefit of working with seasoned financial advisors who will work with you every step of the way.

Ray Castaldi Financial Advisor

Lifetime income strategies for retirees Financial planning Retirement planning Elder long-term care solutions

Strategic asset management We hope you & your families are safe during these unprecedented times! Call us at 401 401--596 596--6600 so we can address any questions or concerns. Be well and be safe!

Plan Well, Live Well

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401-596-6600 Registered Representative, securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Cambridge and Castaldi Financial Solutions, Inc. are not affiliated.

You can count on us! Investment and insurance products and services are offered through INFINEX INVESTMENTS, INC. Member FINRA/SIPC. Chelsea Groton Financial Services is a trade name of the bank. Infinex and the bank are not affiliated. Products and services made available through Infinex are not insured by the FDIC or any other agency of the United States and are not deposits or obligations of nor guaranteed or insured by any bank or bank affiliate. These products are subject to investment risk, including the possible loss of value.

ELDER LAW • WILLS • ESTATE PLANNING TRUSTS • PROBATE • MEDICAID PLANNING

Marcia J. Boyd Of Counsel Sayer Regan & Thayer, LLP

“Advising the elderly and disabled, as well as individuals and families of all ages” VIDEO & PHONE CONFERENCES AVAILABLE

343C Main Street, Wakefield • Rhode Island 02879 www.boydelderlaw.com T: 401.789.1616 • F: 401.783.0660 MBoyd@SRT-Law.com SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

FINANCIAL GUIDE 2021 • Saving

3 TIPS FOR DEALING WITH DEBT 1. Stop Making More: This one might be obvious, but it’s also difficult, so take measures to make sure you don’t rack up more debt by cutting up your cards or freezing your credit. 2. One at a Time: Pick one debt to focus on paying off and stick with minimum payments on the others.

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3. Seek Help: Consider consolidation (combining all debts into one payment) or seek credit counseling (trying out a debt management plan). Both options help lower the interest rate and make monthly payments more affordable.

FINANCIAL GUIDE 2021 • Investing

TOP RHODE ISLAND STOCKS Right now more than ever we’re about shopping local – and that doesn’t stop at retailers and restaurants. Check out the bynumbers breakdown of the Ocean State’s top stocks (and consider investing). *Prices and data are as of November 30, 2020

Citizens Financial Group (CFG) Headquarters: Providence Employees: ~18,100 Share Price: $32.66 Market Value: $14.58B Price-earnings Ratio: 14.79 52-week Range: 14.12-41.29

CVS Health Corp. (CVS) Headquarters: Woonsocket Employees: ~295,000 Share Price: $67.79 Market Value: $88.84B Price-earnings Ratio: 11.19 52-week Range: 52.05-76.44

Hasbro, Inc. (HAS) Headquarters: Pawtucket Employees: ~6,000 Share Price: $93.03 Market Value: $12.65B Price-earnings Ratio: 32.53 52-week Range: 41.33-109.50

Textron Inc. (TXT)

Anthony Landi, Deborah Shuster, Kelly Almonte and Jeffrey Boudjouk (Left to Right)

The Northeast Investment Group Takes on the Challenge of COVID-19 At the Northeast Investment Group, our mission is to provide practical wealth management services to our clients throughout all stages of their lives. We see our clients as partners, working together with us to make sense of their unique finances in a world that is increasingly more complex. Our group’s team structure has given us the flexibility to transition to a new way of working during Covid, while keeping the same values and service that is a hallmark of our firm. Whether it’s a phone call or a Zoom meeting, we continue to stay in touch through regularly scheduled meetings or “check-ups” to let our clients, who are “family”, keep up-to-date with the economy, the markets, and their portfolios. It’s true that COVID-19 has brought much turbulence and uncertainty; however, the members of the Northeast Investment Group have over 100 years of collective experience advising individuals, business owners, professionals, retirees, and their families. Simply put – we’re in this with you for the long run. No matter the stage of life you are in, the Northeast Investment Group family is here to help you manage your wealth so that you can live the life you desire as we move beyond this current battle. The time is now to begin your relationship with a Group who puts you first, implementing strategies for your wealth in the 21st century. We look forward to welcoming you to the Northeast Investment Group.

Headquarters: Providence Employees: ~35,000 Share Price: $45.10 Market Value: $10.73B Price-earnings Ratio: 38.13 52-week Range: 20.26-51.53

United Natural Foods Inc. (UNFI) Headquarters: Providence Employees: ~19,000 Share Price: $17.25 Market Value: $1.01B Price-earnings Ratio: N/A 52-week Range: 5.00-23.38

1000 Chapel View Boulevard, Suite 200 | Cranston | 401-213-8316 northeastinvestmentgroup.com | info@northeastinvestmentgroup.com Securities offered through Kestra Investment Services, LLC (Kestra IS), member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Kestra Private Wealth Services, LLC. Northeast Investment Group is a member firm of Kestra Private Wealth Services, LLC, an affiliate of Kestra IS. Northeast Investment Group and Kestra IS are not affiliated. Investor Disclosure: https://bit.ly/KF-Disclosures SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

FINANCIAL GUIDE 2021 • Saving

MORE WAYS TO SAVE Reduce Bills

Find Money

“Don’t like the weather? Wait a minute!” is a popular joke here in Little Rhody. Even on those mild days, temps can quickly plummet to freezing, and that adds up when it comes to keeping your home comfortable. Energy.RI.gov is a great resource for things like the Weatherization Assistance Program, which helps income eligible households reduce heating bills by providing whole house energy efficiency services. Also find information on heating assistance, sales tax exemptions, and more. To determine how much energy you’re actually using and what to do about it, schedule a no-cost home energy assessment: An energy auditor will complete an attic-to-basement evaluation and provide a custom home energy report outlining recommended energy efficiency

According to Treasurer Seth Magaziner, more than 300,000 Rhode Islanders have unclaimed cash and assets waiting to be returned, so he developed YOUR MONEY, a program that reunites Rhode Islanders with missing funds. Think this could be you? It doesn’t take long to search the database and could end up being totally worth your time. FindRIMoney.com

improvements. They will even install a few no-cost energy saving products which may include ENERGY STAR-certified LED light bulbs, seven-day programmable thermostats, faucet aerators, or low-flow showerheads. Based on your assessment, you may be eligible for rebates, a 0 percent interest HEAT loan, and thousands in savings towards a new insulation installation. 1-888-633-7947

Mortgage Forbearance

Get a College Grant Fun fact: Every child born to or adopted by Rhode Island families is eligible for a $100 CollegeBoundbaby Grant to be used for higher education. Parents apply for the grant right at the hospital by checking the box on the Birth Worksheet. Parents may also complete and submit the enrollment form before their child’s first birthday or within one year of the child’s adoption date. Learn more at CollegeBoundBaby.com

If you are a homeowner and are experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19, you may be able to receive a forbearance plan, which means your mortgage payments are temporarily suspended or reduced. Begin by calling your mortgage company to see if this is an option for you. At the end of the forbearance plan, you must repay what you missed, but not necessarily all at once. During tough times, not having to pay your mortgage can really lighten your load.

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4259 Old Post Road, Unit 1 | Charlestown | 401-932-6941 | BreachwayInvestments.com SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

FINANCIAL GUIDE 2021 • Financial Advisor

Choose the Right Financial Advisor Handing over your investments and finances to someone else is a big deal – it takes a lot of trust, so picking out the right financial advisor for you and your needs is important. Luckily, with a little insight from the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA), we outlined the process step-by-step.

Set a Goal: Talk to family members about what you want to accomplish by working with a financial

advisor, whether it’s general investment advice, guidance in paying for college or a house, or planning for retirement.

Research:

A great place to start is asking for recommendations from friends, family, and colleagues so you have some candidates to choose from. Make sure you do some digging on potential advisors’ websites and bios.

Meet: Typically, a face-to-face meeting with each candidate before sign-up is the way to go, but if you

don’t feel comfortable with or cannot arrange in-person interviews, make sure you set up a video call. Come armed with questions like those below, and use NAPFA’s Financial Advisor Diagnostic tool online to evaluate their answers. How are you compensated? If you accept commissions, will you itemize the amount of compensation you earn from products that you recommend to me?

Do you provide comprehensive financial planning or just investment management?

Do you accept referral fees?

How will you help me reach my financial goals?

Are you held to a fiduciary standard at all times?

What happens to my relationship with the firm if something happens to you?

Would you sign a fiduciary oath committing to putting my financial interests first? Do you have many clients like me?

Keep Tabs: Finally, once you choose your advisor, be sure to evaluate their performance on an ongoing basis.

Have you ever been disciplined by the Securities and Exchange Commission or the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority?

SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

NEW GIVE SMART CAMPAIGN In their “Give Smart” campaign, local ad agency NAIL Communications has created an amusing ad which parodies the ridiculous nature of trying to please picky, unpredictable kids. “The Treasurer’s Office was looking for more people to sign up for 529 plans. But with people struggling and payback so far down the road, we needed to make 529 plans feel like they could help folks right now,” says creative partner Alec Beckett. Find the amusing spots on CTV, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, digital display, and search through January.

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t h g u o Th

FOOD FOR

Looking to press the reset button on last year’s lockdown lifestyle? South County grocers, juicers, and more are ready to help you tackle a nutritious new year BŌL Photography by Nick DelGiudice

BY ELIZABETH TRAYNOR

AFTER A YEAR LIKE 2020

it’s hard to know what to expect for 2021 but time keeps moving along, ready or not. So many of us found ourselves indulging a bit during the various quarantine phases. Whether you were “eating your feelings,” discovering the joys of baking bread, or preparing some delish but not-so-goodfor-you snacks during multiple binge-watch sessions, the flip of the calendar page can signal a new beginning. January often brings with it a renewed sense of possibility, one that prompts the revisiting of goals and setting new ones. That fresh sense of purpose can include a re-examination of diet and lifestyle, and an interest in nutrition. “Generally, we see an uptick after the holidays,” says Maggie Pearson, founder of Feast & Fettle, a Rhode Island meal delivery service. “In January, people definitely want to eat healthy.” If the changing of the calendar prompts a renewed sense of interest in healthy eating for you, you’re in luck because all across South County there is a host of businesses, restaurants, and meal services that will help you do just that.

Feast & Fettle Photos by Janie Liu, courtesy of Feast & Fettle

Roch’s Fresh Food Market

shop

Roch's Fresh Food Market

Oftentimes, the first place to begin a health journey is at the grocery store, but that can be daunting without a road map. Fortunately, there are a number of markets in South County that specialize in catering to healthy lifestyles, including carefully curated selections in which shop owners take pride in the quality, nutritional value, and scope. Back to Basics in East Greenwich has been serving their community for over 20 years: “We know our customers. Our customers here are all regulars,” says owner Fran Shaver. “The majority we have relationships with. We know what they’re looking for. If they request items we don’t have in stock, we bring it in for them.” Find supplements, health foods, and more at stores like the ones below.

Back to Basics A local supermarket that cares about wellness and offers wide holistic solutions with a range of top-quality products. East Greenwich, BackToBasicsNaturalFoods.com

Belmont Market

Roch’s Fresh Food Market

Independent grocer that started as a wholesale fruit stand and has evolved into a locally lauded bakery and source for fresh veggies and fruit. Wakefield, BelmontMarket.com

Family-run supermarket known for “farm to fork” fresh produce sourced from Rhode Island farmers. Narragansett, Rochs.com

Dave’s Fresh Marketplace

South Coast Organics and Bulk Foods

This local supermarket chain is a Rhode Island tradition, and is stocked with healthy, local, and prepared foods. East Greenwich, Warwick, Wickford, and North Kingstown, DavesMarketplace.com

Discover a wide selection of quality bulk foods, coffee, tea, herbs, and spices. They also specialize in custom packaging so that customers can order only the amount needed. Wakefield, SouthCoastBulkFoods.com

Herbwise Naturals

William Wright & Co.

Offering many homeopathic remedies, vitamins, and more – including one of the largest inventories of bulk herbs and spices in New England. Westerly, HerbwiseNaturals.com

This “farm shop” evolved during quarantine from a farm stand started in 2019 by Rebecca Wright, and focuses on connecting local farms to the community. Westerly, WilliamWrightAndCo.com

SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

Belmont Market

learn

For those looking to change their diet, or introduce new, healthy measures to the mix, it can be helpful to use the services of a dietician or a nutritionist. What’s the difference? Dietitians treat medical conditions through food therapy while nutritionists advise people on what to eat to meet health goals. “Going to see a dietician means you’re likely to be able to add food to your routine rather than take it away,” says Emily DelConte, registered dietician, certified diabetes care and education specialist, and director of Evolution Nutrition, a group practice of 15 nutrition professionals based in the East Bay. “We assess where the person is at and what they’re hoping to do and we engage them in a sustainable way to have healthful eating,” Delconte explains. “A sustainable way entails finding a way to eat that isn’t a quick fix or a fad, but finding ways to engage with food and eating and their body that’s not restrictive or has a lot of rules around it. Instead, it’s honoring their body’s cues.” Learn more about the science of health and how to incorporate it into your life from these local service providers, including a mix of licensed nutritionists and health coaches.

Be Fit Nutrition

Gansett Nutrition

RI Nutrition Therapy

A social club dedicated to educating others about the importance of good health and nutrition while keeping things fun with one-on-one wellness coaching and weight loss challenges. Narragansett, Facebook: Be Fit Nutrition

Newly opened in November, this community club boasts nutrition coaching, fit camps, sports nutrition, and programs to fit all lifestyles – plus they serve up yummy teas, shakes, protein coffees, and more. Narragansett, Facebook: Gansett Nutrition

Registered dietician Wendy Leonard has been helping patients meet their health and wellness goals for over 15 years, and offers many different types of nutritional therapy. North Kingstown, RINutritionTherapy.com

Evolution Nutrition This group of registered dieticians works with clients to find a sustainable way of eating that supports their physical and mental health. East Greenwich and Warwick, EvolutionRD.com

Push Nutrition Coaching Pairing clients with a registered dietician to aid in making healthy eating choices. Coventry, PushNutritionCoaching.com

Vitamin Smart Vitamin Smart creates a custom plan for you to improve and restore your health through clean food, exercise, and supplements. Wakefield, VitaminSmartDirectionsInc.com

SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

eat

We hear you – sometimes you just want someone to take the guesswork (and the work work) out of the meal equation and have the healthy option made for you. That’s where the restaurants, cafes, and eateries below come into play. South County has a large variety of options so that whatever you’re craving, you can find it!

Alma Juice Bar + Market

New Wave Nutrition

Coastal neighborhood market offering breakfast, lunch, prepared foods, pantry essentials, and household items, sourced from local farms, purveyors, and creators that use natural and sustainable practices. Wickford, AlmaJuiceBar.com

Find energizing teas, healthy shakes, protein coffees, and health coaching new to Wickford Village. Wickford, Facebook: New Wave Nutrition RI

BŌL This healthy cafe offers an entire menu of foods free of antiinflammatories. Offerings include plant-based superfoods, organic fruits, and house-made “mylks”, inspired by the owner’s own journey with chronic Lyme disease. Wakefield, BOLofLove.com

Celebrated Craving something sweet? Celebrated creates plant-based and allergen-free desserts, and sources their mostly organic, 100 percent vegan ingredients from local producers whenever possible. They also use low-impact packaging and support local animal sanctuaries. Warwick, Celebrated.co

High Tide Juice Bar Offering fresh juice, smoothies, smoothie bowls, salads, sandwiches, coffee – and more! The menu is influenced by the owners’ love for the sand and the surf. Westerly, HighTideJuiceBar.com

Perfectly Fit RI & Raw Bob’s Juicery Raw Bob's Juicery, which is always plant-based and organic, can be found inside of personal training studio Perfectly Fit. East Greenwich, PerfectlyFitRI.com, RawBobs.com

Shaking It Up Nutrition Choose from nutritional shakes, energizing teas, protein snacks, and more on a menu designed to help you work nutrition into your daily routine. North Kingstown, ShakingItUpNutrition.com

The Sweet Spot Nutrition Locally owned, healthy smoothie and tea bar. Coventry, Facebook: The Sweet Spot Nutrition

What’s Shakin’ Protein Shake & Beverage Bar Featuring over 110 flavors of protein shakes, fruit and green smoothies, and other beverages, as well as health food and snack items. Coventry, Facebook: Whats Shakin’

BŌL Photography by Nick DelGiudice

Faits Mason

order Finally, if you’re really looking to up your game, consider investing in a meal service. “It’s so much easier. It’s almost like we meal prep for people,” says Pearson of Feast & Fettle. “This is an option where you don’t have to meal prep – the food will come to you.” Get your food delivered from local services like these:

Faits Maison Feast & Fettle Photo by Janie Liu, courtesy of Feast & Fettle

Alma Juice Bar + Market Photo by Robert Isenberg

Inspired by the owners’ roots, these 100 percent plantbased meals bring the flavors of different regions of France to your table. Narragansett, FaitsMaison.com

Feast & Fettle Offering home-cooked meals without the cooking. The curated menus accommodate all diets and change weekly. FeastAndFettle.com

Innovation Fitness RI Innovation Fitness offers sports nutrition supplements, meals, vitamins, and accessories for a range of dietary needs. Westerly, InnovationFitnessRI.com

My Chef Lara This personal chef service offers everything from weekly meal preparation, small events, and holiday celebrations, to cooking instruction. MyChefLara.com

Adding fitness to your plan? See our article on page 46 for resources.

SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

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Life & Style home | wellness

| influencer | shop

Not your typical Narragansett home

Cool Ranch A Narragansett home is a mid-century labor of love Vaulted ceilings, Possini-inspired petaled pendant lighting, white brick, and swivel arm chairs. One step inside the Narragansett home of Ann Scavone and Glenn Tao, and you might expect to be handed a martini, shaken not stirred, while ‘60s cocktail jazz plays from the stereo. This cool vibe is the result of months of sweat equity and vision from a design-minded duo who worked to connect the home’s interior to its 1974 architecture: a mid-century ranch with Spanish influences. Photo courtesy of Ann Scavone SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

By Elyse Major

Scavone and Tao met as art students at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, and have enjoyed collaborating on projects through the years. Now retired with their daughters grown, they were looking for a single-level home to age in place when the property – atypical for the area – caught their eye. “Both of us love everything mid-century so this ranch really spoke to us,” says Scavone, who notes in addition to being attracted to the vaulted wood ceilings and ample natural light, the layout centers around an atrium which can be viewed from other parts of the house. “This unique feature

SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

Splashy Marimekko pillows from Finland, and a Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams couch are among designminded furnishings that infuse graphic punch to neutral spaces

really was a draw for us.” In 2018 Scavone and Tao bought the house and then spent seven months putting their stamp on it before moving in. “Since we’re both retired, we had lots of time to devote to this renovation. We were able to lay hardwood flooring throughout the house,

Photos courtesy of Ann Scavone

Life & Style | home •

GET RHODY STYLE Ann Scavone shares about living in Gansett, favorite spots, and more. SALT LIFE Best part of living in Rhode Island? “The peacefulness, the lack of bumperto-bumper traffic, and the beach being two minutes away!” says Scavone. remove walls, gut and install two full bathrooms, and totally reconfigure and install a new kitchen,” Scavone says, beaming with pride. “The only work we did not do was the plumbing, electrical, and tiling.” Scavone, who describes her style as “uncluttered but still inviting,” explains that when they took ownership, the home was very drab inside. “We knew that

Want your home featured in So Rhode Island magazine? Email Elyse@ProvidenceOnline.com to learn more

painting walls and woodwork white would help immensely, and it did,” she says, noting that she likes to stick to a limited palette. “I gravitate to a black-and-white color story because it can be classic and modern at the same time,” she explains. “Other homes we have owned and lived in Rhode Island definitely had more of the cottage/beachy feel incorporated into the decorating. When renovating and decorating, we are very conscious of respecting the style,” says Scavone. “This home’s architecture was paramount in our renovation decisions – it was in need of TLC both inside and out – it was just the challenge we were seeking.”

CALM VIBES In describing her version of Ocean State style, Scavone says: “Laid back decorating, and the view we get of Narragansett Bay at the top of our street!” SHOP LOCAL Favorite spots for Scavone and Tao include Brickley’s Ice Cream, The Coffee Connection, and “Roche’s for North End food and drink.” Also Wakefield Kitchen & Bath, Arnold’s Lumber, “Tile Craft to get the renovation done; The Purple Cow, Crosswind Trader, and Green Ink for special gifts.”

SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

Life & Style | wellness •

By Gianni Dejesus

Let’s Get Physical: At Home Edition With so many studios offering virtual classes, sticking to that New Year’s resolution has never been easier In dire need of a good workout? Join the club. Due to ever-changing protocols, gyms and studios may have limited space or be closed due to COVID, but no worries – you can still get that regimen started because many offer livestream classes, small/private sessions, and more. Virtual classes are becoming a big hit due to the convenience they offer – you can participate right from the comfort of home – so stuff those excuses in your duffle bag! If you are heading out, be sure to register first and mask up. Provided below are some great places to help you keep that resolution. If we missed your favorite, please email Elyse@ ProvidenceOnline.com and be sure to check with your PCP before starting a new routine. ALL THAT MATTERS: What is it: This February ‘20 Rhody Gem features four yoga studios, a meditation studio, retail store, and services including acupuncture, massage, chiropractic, and reflexology. Good to know: Currently offering a safe space at the studio, or opt for online classes. Pre-register via their website or by using the All That Matters app. 315 Main St, Wakefield; AllThatMatters.com BARRE COAST What is it: Along with barre, class options include boxing, yoga, and TRX – the equipment-based suspension training developed by a former US Navy SEAL. Love to shop? There’s a boutique filled with workout wear. Good to Know: Visit their website for virtual membership offers and details. Merchants Square at 55 Beach St, Westerly; BarreCoast.com

(musculo-skeletal program that focuses on strength and stability) training and certification location in RI and nearby MA. Good to know: The center offers many options like personal training and TRX. Find both live and on-demand sessions on the MBO app. 816 Middle Rd, East Greenwich; RIPilates.net ELEVATE What is it: This indoor cycling and barre studio includes beginner, intermediate, and advanced classes. Good to know: Life coaching sessions are offered, and there’s an instore apparel shop. 883 Boston Neck Rd, Narragansett; ElevateBarreCycle.com HIGH STREET YOGA What is it: This studio lists classes that range from vinyasa yoga to meditation, all designed to help patrons reach their fitness goals and get in tune with their inner self. Good to know: All small group classes are taught virtually. Sign up/reserve a spot in advance on their website; WellnessLiving username and password can be used. 10 Broad St, Westerly; HighStreetYoga.com

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ISLAND HERON YOGA What is it: Set up a comfy spot to learn a variety of yoga styles to practice at home via livestream classes. Good to know: The studio is currently closed, but classes live-stream daily. Also peruse their website for a library of pre-recorded classes. 35 Narragansett Ave, Jamestown; IslandHeronYoga.com LUXE FITNESS What is it: Full-service facility with 120+ pieces of equipment by brands like Life Fitness, Life Strength, Hammer Strength, Cybex, and Iron Grip. Classes include spinning, Pilates, yoga, muscle sculpt, Zumba, core training, Ab Attack, and more. Good to know: The gym is open but it’s always best to refer to their Facebook page for updates and hours. 116 Granite St, Westerly & 55 Village Sq. Dr. Ste 1, Wakefield; LuxeFitnessClubs.com OCEAN STATE COMMUNITY WELLNESS What is it: A wellness center with a full gym, training, and group fitness courses available. Good to know: Hours change seasonally so be sure to check ahead. Also find cool branded gear for purchase. 7540 Post Road, North Kingstown; OSCWellness.org PERFECTLY FIT RI What is it: Newly renovated expansive gym with a host of cardiovascular and strength training equipment – and juice bar! Good to know: Offering appointment-only personal training and small group workouts. Raw Bob’s Organic Juicery is available onsite. 5800 Post Rd, East Greenwich; PerfectlyFitRI.com

RHODE WARRIOR GYM What is it: Embrace your inner Rocky at this 2,400-square-foot facility with a boxing room complete with ring and bags. There’s also a fitness room with free weights, kettlebells, rowing machines, squat racks, weighted balls, fitness bands, yoga mats, and many other conditioning tools. Good to know: Open at press time but always good to check online first during this time. 3769 Old Post Rd, Charlestown: RhodeWarriorGym.com RI YOGA CENTER What is it: Warm up at this studio specializing in heated power vinyasa, and yoga tone, exclusive to the studio. Non-heated options are available, too. Good to know: Classes are updated online an hour before the class. Refer to their social media sites for postings on new classes and protocols. 99 Fortin Rd, Kingston; RIYogaCenter.com RIVER BEND ATHLETIC CLUB What is it: A health and fitness club with 50+ classes offered each week; choose from yoga, boxing, racquetball, and much more. Good to know: Spaces are reserved by phone and by members up to 24 hours in advance. Facial coverings are required when in the facility. 316 Columbia St, Wakefield; RiverBendAC.biz YMCA What is it: Yup, the good ol’ Y. There are locations statewide, each offering different programs. Good to know: Masks are required to be worn within the facility and guests must abide by the social distancing policy by keeping a distance of six feet from others. Many Locations in Rhode Island, visit YMCA.net

SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

Life & Style influencer •

By Elyse Major

Meet Brendan Kirby The hilarious host talks about his Wicked Late past, favorite moments on The Rhode Show, and wishes for 2021

Your Rhode Island public-access television show Wicked Late with Brendan Kirby ran from 2003-2012. Any plans for a reboot? Haven’t we all suffered enough lately?! Jokes aside, I’m obviously proud of the work we do on The Rhode Show, but

SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

Wicked Late was my total vision, voice, and sensibility. Despite no budget or a paid crew, I worked with what I had and did my best hoping to be ready for a professional opportunity once it arrived, and I was. So if there is a reboot, we just need to find someone to play the role of me – perhaps Bradley Cooper – although I’m not sure he’s good-looking enough. What types of segments are your favorites to do on The Rhode Show? I love the fact that we are live each morning! The energy when Will, Michaela, and I are in the room is palpable and our friendship is authentic. As for recurring segments, I’ve developed this semi-regular thing called The Kirby Kwiz where I challenge my co-hosts by asking silly questions. I’m also quite proud of the “cold opens” we do from time to time right at the start of the show. Is there a fun fact about you that readers would be surprised to know? While long-haul trucking in the late ‘70s,

I won several amateur arm wrestling tournaments across the Pacific Northwest under the name Skip Bicep. Did you make a New Year’s resolution for 2021? If yes, tell us all about it! This year I’m going to be much more efficient with my time. For example, I plan to eat my dinner every night while on an Exercise Bike. I’ll call it the circle of calories. Any wishes for the year ahead? I know it’s a total longshot, but concerts! I miss experiencing the atmosphere surrounding live events and being able to support them regularly. Oh, and to finally launch my own line of designer jeans.

Editor’s note: For more hilarity and hijinx with Brendan Kirby, tune into The Rhode Show weekdays 9-10am on WPRI 12; also livestreaming at WPRI.com

Photo courtesy of Brendan Kirby

Your junior year at Rhode Island College was spent in NYC as an intern at The Late Show with David Letterman. What were some of the biggest take-aways for you? In the comedic stratosphere, David Letterman is by far my greatest influence, so getting the chance to work on my favorite show was simply incredible. I learned how a daily program was produced at the absolute highest level: the pressure, the disappointments, how they handled last-minute changes and cancellations. From production meetings to the control room, I just took it all in. The experience just reaffirmed what I wanted to do with my life. I will always look back fondly – and I still have my Worldwide Pants jacket.

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SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

Life & Style | shop •

By Sean Morrissey

Local Accents Launched in 2012 by photographer Samir Dhamija and his wife Akanksha Aga, My Méz is a home label with an artistic soul. The North Providence-based brand, which is named after the commonly used Indian word for “table,” specializes in hand-crafted wooden furniture and housewares that are customized with work from local artists and Dhamija himself. Some of our favorite pieces include the nauticalthemed — and super practical — trays and coasters, which lend a unique accent to any room (pro tip: they also make great gifts). For an extra-personalized option, My Méz will create bespoke designs using customers’ own photos. The collection’s artistry extends beyond the aesthetic. Furniture and decorative pieces are cleverly dreamed up to serve multiple purposes: table legs unscrew, transforming a tabletop into a tray or easily mountable piece of wall art. Whether you’re looking to elevate your own space or want to gift one of these keepsake pieces to a loved one, My Méz has something for everybody. MyMez.com

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Food & Drink experience | food news

PONDSIDE PICKUP Ocean-to-car service is Matunuck’s coolest craze When you think of Matunuck Oyster Bar, images of summertime are likely to fill your head, but this popular spot is not only open yearround for indoor and outdoor dining – it also offers pondside pickup (bonus points for how adorable that sounds). Choose from an extensive menu, which of course features their signature oysters grown right off their patio in Potter Pond, along with other local faves like clear or creamy chowder, Point Judith calamari, Rhode Island littleneck clams, and dishes featuring other farm- and sea-to-table delights. Place your order by calling the restaurant or via their website and a staff member will greet you and deliver your order when you arrive. “We ask for their name and bring their order right out so our guests never have to leave their cars. It is a quick and convenient stop for our take-out option,” says Megan Lagasse, event manager. And if you’re way behind on your holiday gift giving, seafood shipping is available anywhere within the US with free shipping to the Northeast. “Order fresh lobsters, oysters, mussels, scallops, and clams today and enjoy a New England seafood feast in your home tomorrow.” 783-4202 ext. 1; RhodyOysters.com | By Elyse Major Photo courtesy of Matunuck Oyster Bar SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

Food & Drink | experience •

By Elyse Major

Shaken Not Stirred The virtues of attending a virtual mixology workshop industry put on furlough due to COVID-19; she most recently managed a large portfolio for Marriott’s Luxury brands. It was during her downtime that she thought about her own skills, her wide network of talented connections, and the realization that nothing quite like this type of packaged service delivered remotely seemed to exist. “I had always wanted to start my own business,” says the cheerful Messina. “I’m excited to leverage my hospitality background and the passion of my furloughed industry colleagues to curate virtual experiences that connect individuals with professionals to create engaging and sophisticated gatherings from the comfort of home.” Next, I received a confirmation email

with an attached PDF of clear instructions formatted like an elegant menu of what I would need to do to prepare. There was a shopping list of simple items like sugar and honey, lemons and limes, English cucumber, and fresh mint. There were recipes for making simple syrups the night before the workshop, details about our instructor – a noted mixologist and author – even best Zoom settings for participation. One afternoon, Aviation Gin and a six-pack of ginger beer arrived at my doorstep. I emailed Messina directly with questions and a panicked “I don’t have a shaker!” and she promptly responded with, “Don’t worry, Tupperware is fine!” The day of the event, I cleared a space on a table in my home office for my laptop

Prepped and ready for mixing and mingling

Photos by Elyse Major

“Want to attend a cocktail party?” the email began. “It’s virtual.” Even as someone who admittedly loves breaking plans as much as making plans, this invite was intriguing. How does something like this work in a pandemic? I don’t even know how to make a cocktail. I don’t have fancy glasses or a muddler, jigger, or that crazy strainer thing that looks like a Slinky. But, I accepted the invite and as instructed, provided my address. Turns out this was more than a party but a cocktail crafting workshop, and the premiere offering by Damaris Messina to launch her new business, YAY Concierge, where she packages at-home experiences complete with instructors, instructions, supplies, and Zoom log-ins. Based in Rhode Island, Messina was among thousands in the tourism

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Food & Drink | food news •

By Abbie Lahmers

Photos courtesy of Neapolis

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SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

Good news for fans of Pasquale’s Pizzeria Napoletana: their latest endeavor is a neighborhood-style Italian market right across the street from their restaurant in the South County Commons. Neapolis Food Emporium serves as an extension of the parent business, bringing to fruition owner and chef Pasquale Illiano’s dream of spreading the flavors of Naples in Southern Rhode Island. When he’s not cooking pies at the beloved pizza joint, you can now find Illiano at the emporium making authentic gelato, in flavors ranging from almond orange and ha-

zelnut to a colorful “unicorn” offering. Find handmade pastas, sandwiches, salumi, and other fresh Italian eats available to grab and go from refrigerated cases along with shelves of imported pantry staples. Extra virgin olive oils, sauces, bruschetta, and marmalades provide the perfect fixings for home cooking adventures, or Neapolis’ catering service does the work for you with a menu of meatballs, lasagna, arancini, and plenty of other crowd-pleasers for small gatherings or whatever larger parties the future may bring. Wakefield, NeapolisRI.com

New DEM website feature perfect for finding local fish

Narragansett restaurant offers pantry provisions

Already a source of all things seafood, the RI Department of Environmental Management’s SeafoodRI.com website now puts enthusiasts even closer to the catch with a weekly updated landings page. The new feature makes it easier to have fresh seafood, just landed by local fishermen, served up for dinner in a splash. Under the “For Consumers” tab, see what kinds of fish, lobsters, and crabs came up in the latest haul and then find retailers – whether directly off the boat from fishermen or local markets and restaurants – carrying the variety you’re hankering for, from butterfish and fluke to classic quahogs. For the abundance of fish harvested right here in Rhode Island, you might be surprised by the amount of seafood that’s imported to meet the demands for popular species in our restaurants and markets. Wakefield-based organization Eating with the Ecosystem partnered with DEM and the RI Seafood Marketing Collaborative to help increase awareness of local seafood retail with the new landings webpage. The only thing closer to the catch is reeling the line in yourself. SeafoodRI.com

Winter promises a takeout menu of the pizza and warm eats you know and love from the Bike Stop Cafe, a Rhody Gem from November 2019, but new to the restaurant is The Boon Street Market, stocked full of retail pantry goods. “We envision ourselves as becoming somewhat of an old-fashioned country store,” says owner Casey Montanari. “The addition of groceries to our restaurant offerings will ensure our employees will receive the job security they need while providing a service to our existing customers.” With features like senior discounts and local delivery, the new mini-market personalizes the grocery shopping experience and makes up for some of the seasonal business hampered by the pandemic this summer. “The only way for us to survive right now is to adapt our business model in a way that enables us to ride this crisis out and keep our doors open for our customers and our staff,” says Montanari, and lucky for us, that means a nice selection of pantry staples, special hot sauces, and some perishable items coming soon, all available to order online. Narragansett, TheBikeStopCafe.RevelUp.com/weborder

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SORhodeIsland.com • January 2021

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