SO Rhode Island February 2022 by Hey Rhody Media Co.

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In This Issue

So Rhode Island February 2022 Photo courtesy of Harbor Creative Arts

Adventure Time: Your guide to winter fun – indoors and out – around South County

Photo courtesy of Blueprint 5

The Scoop

Life & Style

7 A Richmond librarian is

21 HOME: West Greenwich’s hottest

awarded for advocacy work

listing was a historic tavern

10 RHODY PETS: Tips for keeping

28 INFLUENCER: Audubon’s

Rover safe on a snowy romp;

new senior director is all about

Pet of the Month: Charlie!

living and protecting local

12 CALENDAR: This

30 MAKER: The screen printers

month’s must-do’s

in Stonington responsible

52 FOOD NEWS: New cafe in Westerly,

for your fave local tees

Northern RI fave comes to NK & URI

14 THE PUBLIC’S RADIO: New

Photo by Theresa Oliver, courtesy of Hauser Foods

Master Gardener leads workshops

state of the art telescope at

Food & Drink

Frosty Drew Observatory

47 A sweet treat from Westerly

54 RHODY RECIPE: Warm up with a

chocolatier for your Valentine

tomato orzo soup made from South

16 Meet the new president of URI

County staples

48 IN THE KITCHEN: goTeff 18 RHODY GEM: An essential men’s

founder brings Ethiopian

South County Scenes

apparel shop in East Greenwich

health food to RI

57 A stunning image from a local lens

ON THE COVER: Rock Spot Climbing in Peace Dale. Photography courtesy of Rock Spot Climbing.

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New Paper, Here’s Why: Feel The Supply Chain Woes Container ships lined up on the coast, shipping containers stacked in ports, a slowly disappearing stock of certain items on store shelves, computer chips delaying automobile manufacturing, and now the paper that you hold in your hands. These are all examples of the global supply chain issues that we currently face. If I were to get into the Wayback Machine and travel what seems like an eternity to the beginning of 2020, there would be a version of myself who never considered that a global supply chain disruption would be coming. Even if I could have predicted such a thing, the thought would not have crossed my mind that it would affect a local publishing company in little Rhody. Yet here we are. Some of you may have astutely noticed that the stack of bound paper you now hold in your hands feels a bit different; there is something that seems off with your monthly magazine. You are indeed holding something that departs from the norm of our typical publication. The paper normally used is a lighter weight coated stock – of which, unfortunately, paper mills have completely dialed back the production. As it was explained to me by our printing partner, our typical paper is almost impossible to acquire for the near future and the order

that was placed through another purchasing partner to fulfill our printing needs is currently stalled amongst other products in the aforementioned shipping gridlock. Luckily for us here at Providence Media, our printing partner is resourceful and was able to procure a temporary replacement. This has allowed us to continue to bring the local news and lifestyle coverage that we all know and love to distribution points near you and to your homes. Normally a change in paper stocks wouldn’t be something that our company felt the need to address directly, but in these uncertain times we didn’t want anyone to see a difference and fear the worst. Providence Monthly, So Rhode Island, The Bay Magazine, and Hey Rhody aren’t going anywhere. We will simply roll with the punches and continue to do our best to put a little bit of joy and entertainment in your hands each month. Thank you, readers! Nick DelGiudice General Manager & Creative Director

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The Scoop

rhody pets | calendar | so & so | rhody gem

LIBRARY ACCESS FOR ALL Richmond librarian honored with advocacy award for work expanding the field for people of color For more than 45 years, Richmond resident and librarian Ida McGhee has dedicated her career to increasing access to information services for people of color. To honor her efforts, she was recently awarded the 2021 Library Advocacy Award from the Black Caucus of the American Library Association (BCALA). The award was given to McGhee and seven others at the National Conference of African American Librarians virtual Awards and Honors Ceremony. “I would like to have an impact on the library profession to mentor and recruit students, especially students of color, to the profession,” says McGhee, who has worked to expand professional opportunities for people of color in the field of library studies. Photo courtesy of Community College of Rhode Island SORhodeIsland.com • February 2022

By Hugh Minor

In 2020, the Rhode Island Library Conference similarly recognized McGhee with the Library Champion Award for her outstanding work in building a platform for librarians of color within our state. For 28 years, McGhee was a librarian with the Hartford Public Library, managing their Library on Wheels, running her own library-sponsored book club, and serving on the Permanent Commission on the Status of Hartford Women. She became involved with BCALA, serving as the chapter’s co-vice chair while also participating as a member of REFORMA: The National Association to Promote Library & Information Services to Latinos and the Spanish Speaking. Retirement far from slowed McGhee

SORhodeIsland.com • February 2022

down when she moved to Rhode Island in 2004. She sought out a local organization focused on advancing the field of library studies among people of color. Unable to find one, she gathered a group of her peers and formed Cornucopia of Rhode Island: A Library Community of Color (CORI). Founded in collaboration with the University of Rhode Island Graduate School of Library and Information Studies, the group promotes library services to people of color within Rhode Island and the development of librarians and library staff of color through the exchange of ideas, mentorship opportunities, and community outreach. Though she retired from her public library

job in Hartford, she has worked as a librarian at the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) since 2011 and has served as an adjunct professor at the Warwick, Providence, and Lincoln campuses. She says proudly of her work at the college, “I encourage all CCRI students, staff, and faculty to use our libraries. We are here for you.” There’s no doubt that McGhee’s efforts over the past decades have opened doors for many. “I hope future librarians will represent the people they serve and that students will grow up in a community, attend college, and see faces similar to themselves that work in their libraries,” says McGhee. To learn more about CORI, visit CornucopiaOfRI.blogspot.com.

Photo courtesy of Community College of Rhode Island

The Scoop | so & so •

The Scoop | rhody pets •

By Belinda Jones

RhodyPets:

Snow Days for Dogs

Simple precautions keep your pup prancing through the snow

RHODY PET OF THE MONTH: CHARLIE Playful German Shepherd seeks experienced home By Karen Kalunian Attention German Shepherd lovers! Meet Charlie. This young boy is still very much a puppy. Just shy of a year old, this handsome dog is very playful and smart, too. He’s a little nervous with strangers at first meeting, but once he feels comfortable, he’s a sweet boy. Charlie is best suited to an experienced dog owner who can continue to show him the ropes. His dream home has a fencedin backyard where he can run and play; it’s so much fun to watch him go! If you have been searching for a boy like Charlie, you should meet him – he might just be your true forever friend! Learn more at HeartofRI.org or contact at 401-467-3670 or heartofriadoption@gmail.com. If you have been looking to adopt or know of an animal in need, please contact Karen from Animal Talk directly at animaltalk1920@gmail.com

Dogs and snow seem like a picturesque combination – snowflake-dusted noses, and paws leaving a “follow me” trail of prints across shimmering blankets of white, but there are a few things to consider before you go walking in a winter wonderland. THAT’S NO SNOW CONE Many dogs enjoy an impromptu sidewalk slushie, chomping at the refreshing ice, but make sure they are not lapping up any swirls of blue or green, especially around cars and driveways – antifreeze is sweet-tasting but toxic to pets. Scattered rock salt can also upset your dog’s stomach; they can accidentally ingest

SORhodeIsland.com • February 2022

this grit by licking their paws clean after a walk. Simply wipe off their feet with a soft towel before stepping back into the house. The action will also help warm their chilly paw pads. SNOW BOOTS Speaking of keeping those tootsies toasty, dog booties are a great option for warmth and protection. But pups often do an awkward prance on the first wear, finding it hard to find their footing without their natural sensory contact with the ground. One way around this is to pop on the leash and break into a little trot so their instinctive rhythm overrides their confusion or initial discomfort.

WAX ON, WAX OFF You wouldn’t be without your lip balm or hand cream in the winter, so soothe (or better yet, prevent) nose and paw dryness and cracking with all-natural moisturizer, like Kin+Kind’s Nose and Paw Moisturizer for Dogs and Cats. Apply a light layer and gently massage until the shea butter and jojoba oil is absorbed. MARK THE SPOT Some dogs are wary about exploring a yard buried deep in snow, especially when the drifts are deeper than they are tall! Queer Eye’s Jonathan Van Ness recently modeled

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the solution for his little terrier Elton by shoveling clear a square of grass. The dog has a designated patch to scamper for an efficient potty break. WINTER WORK OUT While some dogs get an extra spring in their step in the snow, others shiver and want to head straight back inside. You might feel the same way about an hour-long walk when icy gusts are chasing you down the street! Puzzle feeders are great for focus and mental stimulation. Indoor games and toys (like Bark Box’s Sub-Zero Chill Box) can help release energy prior to that fireside snooze!

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The Scoop | calendar •

By Karen Greco

THE MUST LIST

10 essential events happening this month February 5: Newport’s La Costa Lobster and Tacos food truck crosses two bridges for Shaidzon Beer Co.’s Pregame Party before the URI Rams take on the UMASS Minutemen. West Kingstown, ShaidzonBeer.com

Ram Island Milky Way by David Zapatka, on display at Wickford Art Association

February 6: Beat the February blues at the New England Winter Blues Tour, with music from Luther “Guitar Junior” Johnson and Curtis Salgado, featuring Sonya Rae Taylor and The Wicked LoDown. Westerly, KnickMusic.com

February 17:

Join a training workshop to be an Osprey Monitor with the Audubon Society. Track the population of these majestic birds of prey, who were nearly decimated by pesticide use. Kingston, ASRI.org

Juried by Warwick photographer Shane Gutierrez, the Wickford Art Association’s February exhibit Photography celebrates the genre with local work, from high-end digital camera shots to Polaroids. North Kingstown, WickfordArt.org

February 19: Tap into a barrel of laughs when the nation-wide Winery Comedy Tour, featuring stand-up comics from New York and Los Angeles, makes a local stop at Tapped Apple Cidery and Winery. Westerly, TappedApple.com

Through April:

Don’t miss Contemporary Theater Company’s annual winter hit, Wakefield Idol, a karaoke-style singing competition where local singers vie weekly for the number one spot, judged by the live audience. Wakefield, ContemporaryTheaterCompany.com

February 3:

Five-time Grammy Awardwinning singer/songwriter Keb’ Mo’, master of modern American roots music, performs at the Greenwich Odeum with special guests The Brother Brothers. East Greenwich, GreewichOdeum.com

February 20:

Through February 20: An Octoroon, Brandon Jacobs-Jenkins’ Obie-winning retelling of a 19th century melodrama about a plantation owner who falls in love with a mixed race woman, plays at The Gamm under Joe Wilson Jr.’s direction. Warwick, GammTheatre.org

February 4:

Please note that events may require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test and mask-wearing regardless of vaccination status. Be sure to check each venue for updates.

SORhodeIsland.com • February 2022

Warm up apres ski or snow tubing at Whalers Brewing Company’s Pint Night at Yawgoo Valley, featuring a selection of beers, including their popular Rise, from the South Kingstown brewery. Exeter, Whalers.com

Bring the whole family to the United Theatre’s Story to Screen series, featuring a reading of Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs followed by a screening of the 2009 animated film. Westerly, UnitedTheatre.org

Photo courtesy of the Narragansett Lions Club

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The Scoop | so & so •

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

Looking Up New state of the art telescope is one small step for Frosty Drew Observatory... one giant leap for stargazers in Rhode Island By Alex Nunes

The Frosty Drew Observatory in Charlestown

December’s Geminid Meteor Shower was the perfect occasion for visitors to try out a high-tech addition to their operation: a brand new telescope that’s the biggest upgrade to Frosty Drew in more than two decades. In preparation astronomer and observatory director Scott MacNeill adjusted the movable dome roof at the Frosty Drew Observatory in Charlestown. It’s clear and cold on this Friday night and the opening to the night’s sky is aligned with a new centerpiece to the observatory: a telescope called the PlaneWave CDK600. MACNEILL: Looking into the telescope, the

SORhodeIsland.com • February 2022

things that people will notice immediately is a lot more detail on objects that are so dim that most telescopes just see it as a blurry spot or a fuzzy patch.

NUNES: Oh, wow.

NUNES [NARRATION]: It’s hard to describe the telescope, but it looks something like a cross between a medical imaging device and a bass drum, outfitted with high-tech bells and whistles. With the mount and other components, it weighs about 1,000 lbs. and had to be dropped in through the roof by a crane when it was installed in October. The price tag, covered with a grant from The Champlin Foundation, was north of $100,000.

NUNES: Yeah, that’s Saturn...What reaction do people typically have when they see this for the first time?

NUNES [NARRATION]: MacNeill and I are on the viewing platform, as he operates a few controls to set our sights about 970,000,000 miles away.

MACNEILL: You see the rings? You can see some of the stripes in the atmosphere.

MACNEILL: [Laughs] Some of them are very strange. So I get – obviously there’s a lot of like “oohs” and “ahhs.” You get a lot of laughter. You get some criers. I had one person be like, “Is that for real?” And I’m like, “Yeah.” And then they punched me. And so now I tend to stand back, especially Saturn. I tend to stand back when I give people a view of Saturn. NUNES [NARRATION]: Through the telescope I see what looks like an illuminated

Photos by Alex Nunes

South County Bureau Reporter Alex Nunes visited the Frosty Drew Observatory in Charlestown ahead of the recent Geminid Meteor Shower. Here is a transcript of the audio story:

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Rhode Island's Choice For Orthopedic & Sports Rehabilitation light in the shape of Saturn. MacNeill positions the telescope to Jupiter, and we can clearly see its equatorial bands and four largest moons. MacNeill hopes to wow more visitors in the coming months, and he thinks this new addition to the more than 33-year-old observatory will make it a destination for stargazers.

programs where the old telescope got to the point where we really couldn’t use it for that anymore, because it was just so worn down.

MACNEILL: When we first installed the last telescope that was here, that was in here for 21 years, that telescope was the best telescope in the region. And eventually over the years, a lot of other observatories in the region had gotten that telescope. Now we again have the best telescope in the region available to the public. So number one, that’s huge for us. We’re again pushing that bar, we’re pushing the limit. But it’s also going to allow us to take a much larger step with our imaging programs and our research

MACNEILL: Everybody wants to see UFOs. That’s always a question we get. And anything that we see that’s odd to people, it’s instantly aliens. But anything that’s happening in the news, anything. If NASA or another space agency releases something in the general media, and it gets picked up by more mainstream media, then people come out and they want to see that.

NUNES: So a lot of people come out to the observatory, you know, sometimes hundreds of people at a time. What do you think it is that draws people out here?

Alex Nunes can be reached at anunes@thepublicsradio.org.

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The Scoop | so & so •

By Allie Lewis

A New Face on Campus

In the months since University of Rhode Island President Marc B. Parlange stepped into his new role, he’s become quite a familiar face on campus. On any given day, you might find him jogging through the quadrangle during the early morning hours, tagging along on a student lab field trip, or cheering on the Rhody Rams. During his first semester at the helm, Parlange and his wife, Mary, have attended a number of student concerts and theater showings, and no shortage of sporting events. As the new president, he made every effort to meet students and faculty, both in the classroom and out-and-about on campus, to get “a true understanding and sense of the university,” he says. While his days also include no shortage of meetings with university leadership and outside stakeholders, one of the most inspiring parts of his job is being able to meet the next generation of big thinkers. “It’s the best job in the world,” according to Parlange – whose career has quite literally taken him all across the globe. Parlange’s decades of experience in higher education have included academic leadership, research, and faculty positions at the University of British Columbia, the prestigious Swiss public research institute École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, and stateside opportunities at Johns Hopkins University and the University of California, Davis. Most recently, however, Parlange had been living half a world away, serving as provost and senior vice president at Monash University in Australia. During his time in these leadership roles, he contributed to a major increase in nationally competitive research grants, a rise in international rankings, and strengthened world-leading multidisciplinary research opportunities. Yet despite all these accomplishments, the Providence native didn’t think his name would jump to the top of a search committee’s list for a new president at the University of Rhode Island. “In the history of searching for presidents, I was probably one of the few that actually applied for the job,” Parlange said with a laugh. “Usually people wait to be called, but I thought, ‘Nobody will know me in Australia.’” Since moving away at a very young age, Parlange has been able to return for visits with

family and friends, and maintained a strong connection to the first place he ever called home. “I’ve always felt pride in Rhode Island,” Parlange says, whether it was when he came across headlines about how the men’s basketball team was playing, or hearing about the scholarly achievements of the students and faculty. “There’s always been important people coming, and important research being done at the University of Rhode Island.” Now, sitting at the helm of the university, Parlange not only looks forward to the growth and improvements that can be made in academics,

but throughout Rhode Island. Where the university goes, he says, the state will follow. “We’re really the engine of the state, of really creating opportunities, lifting up communities. An investment in the university is really an investment into the State of Rhode Island,” according to Parlange. “We know that for every dollar invested, there’s a $6.70 return.” The internationally recognized environmental fluid mechanics expert has a deep appreciation for the number of world-leading programs being offered at the university, and eagerly looks forward to the break-throughs of tomorrow.

Photo by Nora Lewis, courtesy of the University of Rhode Island

Noted academic and native Rhode Islander Marc Parlange returns to put down roots in Kingston as URI’s 12th president

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The Scoop | rhody gem •

By Abbie Lahmers

Blueprint 5 Men’s Apparel

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 full-service store for men’s fashion carrying fine suits, sports jackets, and casual wear, with bespoke pieces and an onsite tailor. Where to find it: Watch for the bright blue veranda as you’re driving along Main Street in East Greenwich, and find a spot in their parking lot. What makes it a Rhody Gem? As one of very few purveyors specializing in men’s fashion, owner Jim Fortier and the Blueprint 5 team take their jobs seriously. Everything from custom Italian suits to casual jeans are hand-selected for their quality, and unique yet sophisticated prints, textures, and patterns give this collection character – far from the standard shirts and pants you would find at a big-box retailer. Personalized down to the thread, master tailor Tony Palma is available for in-store purchases and outside tailoring, too. You won’t find a group more passionate about helping customers find the perfect piece in a space that’s never intimidating. “Sometimes it’s much less about the clothes as it is the experience,” says Fortier. “Guys stop by for a game of pinball, share a joke, or just to say hello. We can be a respite from the daily grind. The fact that we have beautiful clothes is a bonus.”

Blueprint 5 631 Main Street, East Greenwich 885-2500 Blueprint5.com

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Life & Style

home | influencer | maker

Colorful Past A historic tavern and homestead in West Greenwich is equipped for modern life Our nation’s smallest state is studded with landmarks with jaw-dropping pedigrees. One West Greenwich gem known as “Kit’s Tavern,” built around 1740, just sold through Coldwell Banker Realty, offering a fascinating window into colonial life. The tavern was built along the Old New London Turnpike, the main route between Providence and New London, Connecticut and one of the first interstate highways in the United States. History has passed by Kit’s Tavern again and again on this busy and prominent road, and now the tavern has found its next steward. Photos courtesy of Olivia Martin, Coldwell Banker New England SORhodeIsland.com • February 2022

Life & Style | home •

By Julia Barber

OPPOSITE: Original exposed beams add to the rustic charm

Photos courtesy of Olivia Martin, Coldwell Banker New England

SORhodeIsland.com • February 2022

The Kit Matteson House began its life as a farmhouse built by Silas Matteson. His son Christopher (Kit) transformed the house into a tavern during the Revolutionary War, providing travelers with “Entertainment for Man and Horse” well into the 19th century. Two stone fireplaces – one hidden in a small pantry – furnished food and drink for guests, who could dine in the main dining room or the private meeting room on the second floor. Legend has it that many of Rhode Island’s notables dined and drank and trod the wide-plank floorboards. Captivating traces of the tavern remain in the Matteson House today. Magnificent wooden beams crown nearly every ceiling.

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The seams connecting Kit’s spacious addition to the main house – likely home to the tavern’s bar – are still visible in the living spaces. Hand-painted wall art, an early American craft, graces several walls: floral motifs and painted trompe l’oeil wood grain paneling reflect the Matteson family’s wealth and status. Wall painting was practiced by traveling craftsmen using the materials available to them: natural pigments derived from native plants and minerals, unusual paint mediums such as milk, and stencils made from leather and tin. It’s rare to see this vernacular art so well preserved. Perhaps the most extraordinary thing

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Life & Style | home •

By Julia Barber

about the Matteson House is its tasteful renovation: the house is eminently livable and tailored to modern taste without losing its period charm. Set on more than two acres, with expansive flowering gardens and an in-ground pool (not period appropriate, but a definite perk!), the house’s three bedrooms and two baths are meant to host a lively crowd again. Owning an old home such as this fosters a distinct sense of historic perspective: its new owners join a long line of Rhode Islanders who love this unique property.

SORhodeIsland.com • February 2022

Photos courtesy of Olivia Martin, Coldwell Banker New England

The home boasts seven wood-burning fireplaces

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Life & Style | home •

By Julia Barber

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

GET RHODY STYLE Ideas and resources for making the most of living in the Ocean State. SOMETHING OLD Looking to infuse some quaint charm into your abode? Visit local antique shops for Early American pieces. For starters, there’s Rē Antiques & Interiors in North Kingstown, Jules Antiques and General Store in Richmond and across the bridge, Eagles Nest Antique Center, Portsmouth and Aardvark Antiques in Newport. Feel like a Rhody trip? Explore Chepachet, which boasts a few including The Town Trader.

Granite counters and marble backsplash in the butler’s pantry mix well with the clean slate aesthetic

TAVERN TOUR Historians say the American Revolution might not have happened if not for taverns where patriots and loyalists could meet up and chat over drinks. Some spots to explore: DeWolf Tavern, Bristol; Tavern on Main, Chepachet; White Horse Tavern, Newport; and Wilcox Tavern, Charlestown. EARLY AMERICAN INSPO Anne Eckert Brown’s Painted Rooms of Rhode Island: Colonial and Federal (2012) and American Painted Floors Before 1840 (2008) offer insight into the lives and work of the craftsmen who painted interiors throughout New England. The Matteson House features in both books. Likewise, Yale University Art Gallery’s Rhode Island Furniture Archive offers thousands of images and detailed descriptions of Rhode Island’s particularly rich woodworking history. Learn more at RIFA.art.yale.edu.

SORhodeIsland.com • February 2022

Photos courtesy of Olivia Martin, Coldwell Banker New England

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Life & Style | influencer •

By Sascha Roberts

Meet Priscilla De La Cruz The Audubon Society of Rhode Island’s new Senior Director of Government Affairs is a RIC alum who loves birding and dining by the sea

The Audubon Society is all about protecting wildlife at the state and local level. Why is environmental conservation so important to you and Rhode Island? As the climate change crisis intensifies and accelerates, it further threatens wildlife and people, and increases the vulnerability of our communities. As an independent nonprofit, Audubon Society of Rhode Island’s mission is to protect birds, other wildlife, and their habitats through conservation, education, and advocacy, for the benefit of people and all living things. Audubon manages nearly 9,500 acres of conserved habitat to protect the diverse ecosystems we need to adapt to a warming climate. These critical areas serve as a model for habitat protection, they support species resilience, and help limit the impacts of climate change in our state. Nature-based solutions will help to ensure our communities can remain resilient.

What are some of your favorite ways to experience the Ocean State? I enjoy spending time with family and close friends, especially with my nephew. I love traveling and discovering new things, attending community events, taking walks and hikes on beautiful trails. I was born in New York City, but my family moved to Providence when I was very young, so I’m a Rhode Islander at heart – and a big foodie. I love supporting and experiencing local restaurants across the state. I love seafood and like to dine by the water at Matunuck Oyster Bar and Two Ten Oyster Bar & Grill. What animals do you like to spot? Birds and dogs – because both are fun to watch. I’m looking forward to learning more about birds through Audubon and going on nature walks and hikes on Audubon trails. And I hope to adopt a puppy one day!

SORhodeIsland.com • February 2022

Photo by Glenn Osmundson, courtesy of Priscilla De La Cruz

Your education started at Rhode Island College where you earned a BS in Business Marketing before getting a MLA from the Harvard University Extension School. Tell us about that path. I didn’t know when I was younger that I could pursue a career in climate and environmental advocacy. Instead, I focused on marketing and management in the nonprofit sector earlier in my career. But I always cared deeply about doing my small part to help improve the lives of those around me, my family and friends, and my community. That sense of caring and commitment ultimately led me to find my voice in the advocacy field.

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Life & Style | maker •

By Rose Kenyon

Screen Stars A small print shop by the sea puts the T in community Chances are good that you’ve seen the work of Poor Morgan at your favorite local spot – or sported it yourself. Savoy Bookshop and Cafe in Westerly, Nico Scout in South Kingstown, and Yellow Kittens Tavern on Block Island are among their long roster of customers. For over a decade, the Stonington-based biz has been offering graphic design and screen printing services on a wide range of fabrics, from T-shirts and tea towels to sweatpants and totes (essentially any flat fabric surface free of seams). Morgan King and Bekah Kepple founded Poor Morgan in 2012, excited to see how King’s art and screen printing background and Kepple’s non-profit experience would blend to bring their shared vision of entrepreneurship to life. As Kepple puts it, “all the ingredients were there. The timing, knowledge of the local market, merging of our skills and a heavy dose of good fortune

propelled us to take the leap.” Previously located in the Stonington’s Velvet Mill, King and Kepple moved the shop to their home last year, which grants them greater flexibility and more time to share the trade with their son. They are true partners, Kepple says, who make sure to compliment each other continuously and find opportunities for growth. Another key asset to their team is employee and artist, Elvira E. Ormaechea. “There is not a day she doesn’t show up with positivity and humor and love for our cat Sushi,” Kepple says. Friendship, family, and community are pillars to the Poor Morgan business. Having grown up in the Stonington area, they’ve known some of the organizations they work with today since childhood, while others are establishments they frequently patron. Being so close to the border, the Poor Morgan team

is happy to have clients located throughout Rhode Island as well. As Kepple puts it, “This region is so rich with creatives it’s a real pleasure to support one another, regardless of where your zip code finds you.” With a heart for community and an artist’s eye, it’s no wonder Poor Morgan has retained many of its early customers and continues to form lasting relationships, even through hard times. “In this climate of pandemic stress, we are even more grateful for the ability to work together, for our clients’ loyalty and for the decision we made long ago to stay small but mighty. We have been able to weather some tough times and we are acutely aware that not every business was able to do that over the last couple years. So a huge thank you to our community, families, and friends,” Kepple says.

Photos courtesy of Poor Morgan

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Walking in a Winter Funderland INDOORS OR OUT, SOUTH COUNTY PUTS THE FUN IN FEBRUARY BY KAREN GRECO

Hit the slopes at Yawgoo with the whole family Photos courtesy of Yawgoo Valley

outh County might be best known for its surf-and-sand summers, but our coastal towns have plenty of fun activities to warm hearts during winter’s coldest month. From active adventures like rock climbing and snowshoeing to theater and art camps for creative kiddos, February is a fabulous time to grab your hat and mittens and explore. NOTE: Be sure to check with the local businesses for cancellations or changes before you head out.

The Curiosity Chaser With over 100 species of aquatic animals, BIOMES Marine Biology Center boasts the largest collection of New England animals in the world. Most of the sea creatures are rescued – many off fishing vessels – and the ones that can survive in the wild are rehabbed and released. BIOMES is a great way for kids to get up close and personal to all sorts of aquatic life. There’s even a petting pool filled with small sharks, stingrays, and horseshoe crabs. Hard to miss is the 23-year-old tortoise, Darwin, whose presence is awe-inspiring. “Our main goal is for the kids to have an appreciation for the animals,” says owner Mark Hall. “They can’t get that without a personal interaction. Even if you can’t touch them, just being in close proximity creates a connection.” North Kingstown, Biomes.org While there are no live sharks at the Living Sharks Museum in

Biomes has the largest collection of New England animals in the world, including this local octopus Photos courtesy of Biomes

Westerly, there’s plenty to learn about these majestic creatures. Among its several exhibits is one that’s all about prehistoric shark fossils, one that explores the technology behind shark research, and one with artifacts from the 1975 movie Jaws. The museum is hosting a special Paint Your Own Megalodon workshop on February 23, which includes a lesson in shark dental anatomy while painting a prehistoric tooth model to take home. Westerly, LivingSharks.org RI Riddle Room’s two locations have brain-busting riddles for the whole family to solve. Choose from an interactive who-done-it at the Murder Mystery – A Killer’s Revenge in East Greenwich or ride the nostalgia wave to Warwick to try out their Rocky Point room. East Greenwich, RIRiddleRoomEscapeGame.com

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Kids getting their craft on. Photo courtesy of Harbor Creative Arts

Kids can channel their inner master chef Photo courtesy of Taste Buds Kitchen

The Budding Artist For creative kids, South County is a playground. From theater arts to fine arts, there are camps, classes, and exhibitions galore. Harbor Creative Arts is holding three days of fun-filled themed workshops over the vacation week that include a mix of projects like painting, collage, and sculpture. Vacation week themes are Kitty Camp (art featuring your fave felines), Galaxy Camp (an artful exploration of the cosmos), and Interior Design Camp (filled with drawing, design, pattern, and play). HarborCreativeArts.com Both the Hera Gallery in Wakefield and the Jamestown Art Center are hosting student exhibits in their gallery spaces throughout the month. Hera celebrates their 30th Biennial Children’s Exhibition, which features kindergarten through eighth grade artists from across the state. At the Jamestown Art Center, work from students at the Melrose School’s pre-K through fourth grade is on display. HeraArtGallery.org, JamestownArtCenter.org For your budding Master Chef, Taste Buds Kitchen in East Greenwich offers three-hour camps for kids during the February break: the morning session is devoted to younger kids (ages four through eight) while the evening session caters to the nine through 14 crowd. Three to four from-scratch recipes are made during each daily session. “We don’t just do sweets,” owner Ann Wiard says, adding that even picky eaters find that they actually like spinach in spanakopita or broccoli in the broccoli flatbread. “[The kids] are usually very surprised,” she says. They also make healthier versions of things that they already love, like chicken nuggets – some kids say they’re even

better than the ones they get at the drive-through. Kids love the team environment and they enjoy seeing separate ingredients come together in the finished dish. Wiard notes that “kids are willing to try new tastes and flavors” if they make it themselves. “They are willing to eat outside of their comfort zone.” TasteBudsKitchen.com Contemporary Theater Company in Wakefield is holding a winter break version of their popular summer camp. On the first day, kids create their own unique characters. Then, together, everyone brainstorms a story featuring their creations. Two adult playwrights go off and start the script, with scenes ready for rehearsal the next day. The week-long camp culminates in a full performance of the original play, which friends and family can attend. Young thespians love the chance to create stage-worthy performances, but kids don’t need to be budding Meryl Streeps to take part. “You can do any job if you don’t want to go on stage,” says CTC general manager Maggie Cady, noting that some kids prefer behind-the-scenes work like running lights and sound, being part of the stage crew, or creating the sets and costumes. “Whatever inspires and is exciting for kids is the focus.” Cady points out that theater is a great way for kids to gain confidence and a safe place for them to break out of their shells. “Theater is a place for people who don’t know where they belong to find themselves,” she says. “It’s a comforting thing. You see it in the kids’ eyes when they figure it out.” ContemporaryTheaterCo.com

ADDITIONAL MAKERS SPACES Clayground Studio Warwick, ClaygroundStudio.com Create! Color Art Studio Narragansett, CreateColorArtStudio.com Hammer & Stain North Kingstown, HammerAndStainWickford.com Harbor Creative Arts North Kingstown, HarborCreativeArts.com Nancy Stephen Gallery and School of Art East Greenwich, NancyStephenArtSchool.com Rebekah Cook Art Wakefield, RebekahCookArt.com

Thank you! Lila Delman Compass’ longest-standing #1 Sales Team for over 17 years, Dan & Nicole Harding, extend their thanks to all of their clients, associates, and the community who made 2021 a record year for the team. Collectively, the Harding’s rank as one of the top sales teams in Washington County. They welcome the opportunity to work with you in 2022! We invite you to contact Dan Harding at 401.954.1850 or Nicole Harding at 401.419.2606 to learn how a dedicated team of local experts, combined with Compass’ unparalleled forward thinking, can help you achieve your real estate goals.

Nicole Harding

Dan Harding

Sales Associate 401.419.2606

Sales Associate 401.954.1850

nicole.harding@liladelman.com

dan.harding@liladelman.com

Serving Rhode Island since 2003 Hands-on artmaking in action Photo courtesy of Rebekah Cook Art

Rhode Island’s Top Personal Training Studio Private personal training Demand is high! Book your time now with one of Rhode Island’s top trainers 61 Cedar Ave, East Greenwich www.MethodFit.com | 401.743.9669 SORhodeIsland.com • February 2022

The Thrill Seeker For cold weather-loving families, there are plenty of options to take it outside. In Westerly, ice skaters glide along at the Washington Trust Community Skating Center (OceanCommunityYMCA.org). If the weather’s not cooperating, head indoors to URI’s Boss Ice Arena (BossIceArena.com) in Kingston. Of course, there’s snow tubing, skiing, and snowboarding at the venerable Yawgoo Valley (Yawgoo.com). With 36 acres of skiable terrain, there are plenty of trails to make it a fun day. Night owls can try Snowshoeing by the Full Moon with the Audubon Society of RI at Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge in Exeter (ASRI.org). For thrill seekers who prefer a backwoods adventure, sledding at the sand dunes at the Big River Management Area is unparalleled. Created from a former stone quarry, this desert-like setting becomes a mountainous winter wonderland when the white stuff hits. Sledders love the steep hills and ungroomed paths. For a tamer ride, try Wilcox Park in Westerly. Its smaller hills are better suited to littler kiddos. RIParks.com For those who still have energy to burn, but don’t appreciate the Snow many ways to enjoy the slopes at Yawgoo Photos courtesy of Yawgoo Valley

The Sportster There’s plenty of more traditional indoor sports to keep active kids moving during the month. Shanks Clubhouse in East Greenwich and Westerly Virtual Golf are great ways to get on the linx when the real ones are covered in the white stuff. Play 18 holes on courses from anywhere in the world or take a lesson from one of the on-staff pros. ShanksClubhouse.com, WesterlyVirtualGolf.com South County boasts four bowling alleys, one of which – Wickford Lanes – is a duckpin alley, one of only 60 left in the entire United States. If you’re missing the splash of summer, URI’s swimming pool at the Tootell Aquatic Center has open swim times for families during the holiday week. RIDBA.net, URI.edu

relentless blast of winter cold, indoor options are plentiful. Coastal Ninja Warriors in Ashaway (CoastalNinjaWarriors.com) has open gym times and classes for kids during the week; reservations are required. Extreme Airsoft (ExtremeAirsoftOfRI.com) in South Kingstown is offering two vacation camps; one uses Nerf guns for the under-13 set. Rock Spot Climbing in Peace Dale has COVID-compliant camps in both full- and half-day options for ages six and up. “It’s for all experience levels,” explains gym manager Heather DeSantis. “No previous climbing experience is necessary.” The day is split between climbing and games on the ground as well as arts and crafts to mix it up. Besides being fun, rock climbing instills confidence in kids. “You can walk off the street with zero athletic ability and you can climb,” says DeSantis. “The nice thing about climbing is that it’s not a team sport but it is community based. Everyone cheers each other on and helps each other get over a hard move. They get that boost of energy from their friends.” RockSpotClimbing.com

SLEDDING SPOTS

We scoured the area with the help of our readers to offer a short list of the best sledding sites around. Remember, these are word-ofmouth places taken over for the day by enthusiasts so please use your best judgement. Also, not to be wet blankets, but remember to always dress warmly in layers and wear a hat, helmet, and gloves. Slide feet first, and when marching back up the hill, keep to the side. Oh, and hot cocoa afterwards from your favorite local cafe is always a good idea! Did we miss your favorite sledding spot? Email Elyse@ProvidenceOnline.com with location! EAST GREENWICH Goddard State Park, 1095 Ives Road EXETER Yawgoo Valley Snow Tubing, 220 Yawgoo Valley Road JAMESTOWN Fort Wetherill, 3 Fort Wetherill Road NORTH KINGSTOWN Wickford Elementary School, 99 Phillips Street SOUTH KINGSTOWN Village Green, 1020 Kingstown Road Wakefield Elementary, 101 High Street WESTERLY Wilcox Park, 44 Broad Street WEST GREENWICH Big River Management Area, Nooseneck Hill Road

SORhodeIsland.com • February 2022

Introduce kids to diverse film offerings from around the world at the Providence Children’s Film Festival. Shown: A STONE IN THE SHOE (Un caillou dans la chaussure) by Eric Montchaud

MAMMA HAS A MUSTACHE by Sally Rubin

The Film Buff Calling all little cinefiles! South County kids are ready for their close up with several cinematic options to choose from over February break. With the lingering pandemic, Providence Children’s Film Festival is planning at least a partial, if not fully, virtual fest this February, which is great news for SoCoers who won’t travel past the Tower. Festival artistic director Eric Bilodeau called the virtual option “a silver lining to a dark cloud,” noting that last year’s virtual event was a hit. “The film line-up this year is lovely,” he says, noting that every year is different. “I can never predict the narratives or topics.” As in past years, the festival will screen 10 family-friendly feature films and 10 shorts programs. The short films all fit into a “thematic bucket,” which this year includes Passionate Pursuits, Gender Journeys, and CinemaEspañol, which features films from Uruguay, Columbia,

Spain, and Mexico, as well as the return of Cinema Oh La La, a reel of French shorts. There is also a Youth Filmmaker Showcase, which features films made by local kids as well as from all over the world. “It’s fun to see what kids from other cultures are thinking about,” he says. “The similarities and contrasts are so interesting. Youth can be very passionate about movies.” ProvidenceChildrensFilmFestival.org Craving an in-person option? Little film buffs (kindergarten through fifth grade) can head to the United Theatre in Westerly for a threeday multi-media camp, which includes a daily film screening followed by a discussion about the movie and fun activities throughout the day, including crafts. The slate of films include How to Train Your Dragon, Rise of the Guardians, and Happy Feet. UnitedTheatre.org

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Check out these local cafes to grab a warm, chocolatey bevvie and a snack to fuel up for cold weather adventuring. Audrey’s Coffee House and Lounge South Kingstown, AudreysRI.com Caf Bar Wakefield, CafBarRI.com Cool Beans Cafe | Narragansett, CoolBeansCafeRI.com Coy Cafe Westerly, CoyCafe.com Dave’s Coffee Charlestown, DavesCoffee.com Fresh Cup Café Westerly, FreshCupCafe.com Fuel Coffee Bar | Narragansett, FuelCoffeeBarOnline.com Higher Grounds Community Coffee House | Richmond, Facebook: HigherGroundsRI Jitters Cafe | North Kingstown, JittersCafeRI.com Junk & Java Westerly, JunkAndJava.net Rachel’s Cafe | South Kingstown, RachelsCafeRI.com Silver Spoon Bakery East Greenwich, SilverSpoonBakery.com Slice of Heaven Jamestown, SliceOfHeavenRI.com Something’s Brewing North Kingstown, SomethingsBrewingRI.com

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Food & Drink

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LOVE, SWEET LOVE Capture your Valentine’s heart with Swiss-style truffles from Hauser Chocolatier in Westerly Indulge your Valentine – or simply yourself – with authentic Swiss-style chocolate from Hauser Chocolatier. The artisan chocolate maker crafts its delectable fine chocolates at a tucked-away factory in Westerly, which includes a small retail shop. Swiss culinary artist Ruedi Hauser opened his chocolate factory in Connecticut in 1985 (moving to Rhode Island in 1990) after running both a bakery and a catering business where handmade chocolates always played a role. When he went all in on chocolate and opened his eponymous company, he focused on handcrafting Swiss-style truffles, a traditionally round truffle with a cream-based center. Now run by his son Rudi, Hauser’s uses high-tech equipment to keep up with demand. But the attention to detail remains. Each truffle is hand finished to retain its old world look, as well as quality. “Valentine’s Day is about knowing and appreciating the person you love,” notes Rudi, and that includes making the right truffle selections. Create a bespoke box from the 30-50 varieties stocked in the retail case. But for those in a rush, pre-boxed options are available. While visiting, don’t miss their giant 20-pound solid chocolate heart-shaped box, covered in marzipan roses. It’s filled with 80-90 truffles. The box, while used as a display, is made to order for an over-the-top way to express your love. Learn more at HauserChocolates.com | By Karen Greco Photo by Theresa Oliver, courtesy of Hauser Foods SORhodeIsland.com • February 2022

Food & Drink | in the kitchen •

By Jenna Pelletier

Snacking with Purpose

Growing up in Ethiopia, Saron Mechale ate the country’s staple crop teff every day, most often in the form of the fermented flatbread injera. But when she arrived in the United States in 2013 to attend Brown University, Mechale found that teff was not widely eaten here, and she felt that Americans’ perception of African culture tended to be “skewed and narrow.” “I wanted to be part of telling a different story about Africa than the negative one you hear on the news when there’s a crisis such as a war,” Mechale says. While taking an entrepreneurship course at

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Brown, Mechale realized that, in addition to being underrepresented in the US market, teff could be a great vehicle to share a positive narrative about Africa and her home country. Somewhat similar to quinoa, teff is a grass cultivated for its edible seeds. “It has a really delicious, nutty taste,” she says. Often referred to as a superfood, it’s gluten-free and high in protein, fiber, and iron. Mechale also points out that teff fuels Ethiopian runners – many of whom are known for taking home Olympic medals. After several years of conducting market research, experimenting in the kitchen, and

winning various competitions and grants, Mechale officially launched her company, goTeff, in the winter of 2021. The first product she developed is a crisp, available in plain, sweet (blueberry vanilla or strawberry coconut), and savory (chickpea garlic) versions. It can be eaten as a snack or garnish, in place of chips, croutons, or granola. For an overall healthy product, the crisps are made without oil or artificial ingredients, and she uses dried fruits as sweeteners. “We wanted to develop a product that was unique in the market and offer teff in its truest, simplest form – it’s the main ingredient in our crisps,” she says.

Photo courtesy of goTeff

Saron Mechale brings Ethiopian superfood grain and a new cultural narrative to Rhode Island

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Food & Drink | in the kitchen •

By Jenna Pelletier

Mechale produced the first batches at the Warren-based food incubator Hope & Main. Launching the business without a culinary background was challenging, she says, but Hope & Main helped fill in some of the gaps. “They were a great resource,” she says. “They helped me get all my licenses and sort of get started.” She has since moved her production to a larger space in Providence, though the snack

SORhodeIsland.com • February 2022

can be purchased online and at local farmers markets, with plans to distribute more widely in the works. GoTeff recently won a Rhode Island Commerce Innovation Voucher Grant, which has allowed Mechale to hire some part-time employees and increase output. In keeping with the product’s impact-driven mission, Mechale has partnered with the nonprofit Girls Gotta Run, which supports

adolescent Ethiopian girls and their families. She is now working to develop a goTeff subscription box to benefit the organization. “The most rewarding part of this journey has been that, as a female entrepreneur, I’ve created something that I am proud to present, not just on my behalf, but on behalf of my culture,” Mechale says. “I take that responsibility very seriously.” GoTeff.com/shop

Photo courtesy of goTeff

Saron Mechale, founder of goTeff

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Food & Drink | food news

The Café swaps out pasta dish specials daily

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Dinner is served at The Café! The new restaurant, adjacent to The United Theatre in Westerly, is led by executive chef Todd Keister, a Charlestown local who worked with Tom Colicchio at Craftsteak. The Café features a seasonal menu of comfort foods and craft cocktails served up with a side of whimsy. “Everything we do has humor and wit,” explains managing partner Daniel King. “We wanted to transport diners to a golden era, where they can forget the troubles of their day.”

Under beverage director Stephen Corrigan, cheeky cocktails like The Rita Moreno and the Burl Ives infuse old Hollywood with a modern sensibility. The Café also elevates classic cocktails, like the gin martini. But ultimately, the experience comes down to the company. “We don’t want the food to outshine the time you are having,” explains King. “The Café is a place where the community can gather and be anywhere in the world.” Westerly, TheCafeRI.com –Karen Greco

Photo by Josh Behan, courtesy of The Café

LOCATED WITHIN THE WAKEFIELD MALL

Northern RI fave opens outpost in NK The Thirsty Beaver is opening its fourth location on Frenchtown Road in North Kingstown. Co-owner Ed Brady anticipates finishing construction in the late summer or early fall. The popular restaurant, which serves elevated pub fare from its scratch kitchens, is a favorite in the northern part of the state, with spots in Cranston, Smithfield, and Wrentham, MA. Requests from customers at their sister restaurant, Huck’s Filling Station in East Greenwich, prompted their move to South County. “South County is a great community worth investing in,” says Brady, noting that the North Kingstown menu will be similar to the other locations, but with a “seafood-centric flare.” He also anticipates a deeper focus on cocktails to match the area’s creative cocktail scene. “These have been the toughest times in American history,” he says, adding a note of gratitude towards the support of their current customers. “To be able to expand is a blessing.” North Kingstown, ThirstyBeaverPub.com –Karen Greco

South County Bread Co. Handmade Artrisan Breads Pastries • Local Goods

URI Master Gardener leads home gardening workshops If the chilly weather has you dreaming of sunnier days spent tending the garden, free virtual programming happening this month can help you get a head start. Hosted by Providence Community Library, Seedlings partners with experts in the field, including URI Master Gardener Sue Scotti, to bring workshops on seed starting and saving, as well as food system inequities. “Food justice is a central pillar of the series,” says PCL librarian Lee Smith. “Healthy food starts with healthy soil, yet soil contaminants such as lead are found disproportionately in communities of color.” Alongside a lineup of sessions on African diasporic seeds, soil remediation, and other topics, “Interested gardeners – regardless of current level of experience – will learn the key skills needed to begin growing your own food from seeds,” says Smith. Scotti’s workshops – Indoor Seed Starting on February 17 and Outdoor Seed Starting & Transplanting on March 3 – are a great way to cultivate a green thumb. ProvComLib.org/seedlings –Abbie Lahmers

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Food & Drink | rhody recipe •

By Liz Murray

Orzo Soup For the Soul

Whether you’re looking for an easy mealprepped lunch or warm pick-me-up for a chilly winter day, this hearty tomato orzo soup is the definition of cozy. Chicken breast brings the protein, onions and carrots contribute to

can be made in a large batch to be enjoyed over and over again. The ingredients aren’t difficult to come by, either, and a morning in South Kingstown can easily check off each item on your list. I recom-

aging (pro-tip: for no waste, bring your own containers!). Just around the corner, swing by South County Bread Company for a warm, crisp baguette or multigrain loaf for dipping. For fresh kale, carrots, and onions, try the

a wholesome tomato soup base, and nutrient-dense kale gets tossed in at the end for a boost of antioxidants. This nourishing soup

mend South Coast Organics & Bulk Foods to stock up on orzo, spices, and other pantry staples in custom amounts and low-waste pack-

WhatsGood app, the Warwick-based farm-tohome company bringing farm harvests to your door, or for pickup. SourceWhatsGood.com

Photo by Liz Murray

Stir in locally sourced ingredients for this wholesome large-batch recipe

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TOMATO ORZO SOUP Ingredients • 1.5 cups dried orzo • 2 15 oz cans of diced tomatoes • 10 cups chicken broth • 2 large carrots, peeled and diced • 1 large onion, peeled and diced • 1/2 cup diced mushrooms • 2 Tbsp tomato paste • 1 tsp dried thyme • 1/4 tsp table salt • Fresh cracked pepper to taste • 2 cups fresh kale, stems removed and chopped • 1 Tbsp olive oil or coconut oil • 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast • Optional baguette or bread of choice Steps 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper.

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2. Start by making the orzo according to the package. Cook to slightly al-dente, then drain and set aside. 3. While the orzo is cooking, heat the oil in a large dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breast to the pot and sear for 5 minutes on each side until beginning to brown. Place the chicken breast on the parchment paper-lined baking sheet and finish in the oven until the chicken registers 165°F. 4. While the chicken is in the oven, toss the diced onion, mushroom, and carrot into the pot and saute until beginning to soften, about 6 minutes. 5. Add the tomato paste and dried thyme and stir until everything is coated. Now pour in the diced tomatoes, and scrape up any brown bits off of the bottom of the pan using a wooden spoon. Simmer for 5 minutes. 6. Add the chicken broth and bring the soup to a low simmer. Once the chicken is done cooking, dice it into cubes and add it to the soup, along with the cooked orzo. 7. Taste the soup and season with table salt and fresh cracked pepper. Add the chopped kale and continue to simmer for 5 minutes. 8. Serve with a side of bread for dipping and enjoy! Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For more tips and recipes, visit RecipeHippie. com or follow @recipehippie on Instagram.

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SO Rhode Island February 2022

Articles inside

IN THE KITCHEN: goTeff

FOOD NEWS: New cafe in Westerly Northern RI fave comes to NK & URI

A sweet treat from Westerly chocolatier for your Valentine

MAKER: The screen printers in Stonington responsible

HOME: West Greenwich’s hottest

A Richmond librarian is

RHODY PETS: Tips for keeping Rover safe on a snowy romp;

CALENDAR: This

RHODY GEM: An essential men’s

Meet the new president of URI

INFLUENCER: Audubon’s