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She Built a School
A triple-threat creates a performing arts center in Wickford to nurture young talent
By Cheikh Higgs
Amidst the quaint picturesque streets of Wickford stands the South County School of Performing Arts (SCSPA), a gateway into a world of high-quality music education and self-discovery for aspiring performers of all ages. Marissa Maroni, the passionate owner and director, established SCSPA and its subsidiary, The Minis Stage (for babies and toddlers), to offer top-tier education in the performing arts.
Marissa Maroni
Photo by Derek Halkett,
Starting with private voice lessons as Maroni Music Studio in 2022, interest led Maroni to quickly expand to group classes and hire additional teachers to meet demand. A milestone was the launch of the Music for Minis program, confirming the community’s appetite for quality arts education. From Music for Minis classes to advanced workshops for teenagers and adults, the school offers a comprehensive range of programs. “Our philosophy is that the arts have transformative power and can bring joy, self-confidence, and personal growth to individuals of all ages,”
Young students ready for their curtain call
A Minis class
Photo (top) by Mary E. Parris, (bottom) courtesy of South County School of Performing Arts
Maroni emphasizes. Today, SCSPA is a thriving institution with over 150 students, a testament to Maroni’s dedication and enthusiastic support from the community. SCSPA’s success is not just about its programs but also its people. Maroni highlights key team members like Olivia Rich, lead voice teacher and
early childhood educator, and Ashley Catherine, administrative manager. “Olivia’s proactive approach to professional growth and Ashley’s organizational skills have been crucial to our success,” Maroni notes. Award-winning professional actor, director, and teacher Fred Sullivan, Jr., a resident artist at Trinity Rep, is among the high-caliber
Photo courtesy of South County School of Performing Arts
In the heart of Wickford Village at 61 Brown Street
Natalie Kay, voice and early childhood educator, leads Mini Maestros, a class that includes piano, ukulele, and drums discovery for ages three to five
Looking ahead, Maroni envisions expanding the facilities to include a black box theater and offering more performance opportunities. “By enhancing our curriculum and investing in our faculty’s professional development, we aim to create a vibrant hub for performing arts education and creativity in our area,” she shares. For
Photo courtesy of South County School of Performing Arts
aspiring arts educators or entrepreneurs, Maroni’s advice is simple: follow your passion and believe in yourself. “Despite the skepticism I faced about pursuing a career in the performing arts,” Maroni begins, “I hope others see that with hard work and self-belief, a rewarding career in this field is achievable.”
Rhody Pets of the Month
By Karen Kalunian
Looking to welcome a new furry friend into your home? Adopt, don’t shop! Shelters around South County and across the state have dogs and cats ready to find their forever homes. Here are three dogs ready to meet you, or reach out to the shelters to learn about even more adoptees. Mark your calendar for International Dog Day on August 26, as if you need a special day to make pups feel special.
If you have been thinking of adopting or if you know of an animal in need, please contact Karen Kalunian directly at animaltalk1920@gmail.com.
Hazel
BREED: Catahoula Mixed
AGE: 4
GENDER: Female
With her coat of many colors, Hazel is such a stunner. You have to meet her in person to see how special she truly is. Smart Hazel loves walks on the leash in areas where she can sniff until her heart’s content. If you have yummy treats, she sits like a perfect lady, too. Her best home would be one where she’s your one and only princess. A big fenced-in yard would be her dream come true so she can run and play.
CHARLESTOWN ANIMAL SHELTER 401-364-1211
Leo
BREED: Beagle Mixed
AGE: 9 months
GENDER: Male
When you think of fun, you’ll think of Leo! He is loaded with personality and is a pup who loves to play with people and other dogs, too. Learning new tricks every day, Leo is very smart and wants to please. His coat is a beautiful tri-color and his smile is infectious. He’s just a puppy so he is active and would love room to run and play. If you’ve fallen in love with his photo, be sure to meet him in person – he will steal your heart.
SAVE ONE SOUL ANIMAL RESCUE LEAGUE Info@sosarl.org, SOSARL.org
Hazel Leo
Photos (left and center) by Karen Kalunian, (R) by Donna Normand
BREED: Husky
AGE: 1.5
GENDER: Male
Attention Husky lovers, this handsome boy appropriately named Ken is a doll, and ready to join your family. Ken has the brightest blue eyes you’ve ever seen and that Husky zest for life. With all the Kenergy, he’d love a big fenced-in yard or a hiking partner. If you have been searching for a true beauty and a pup who will be your loyal, loving companion, then Ken is waiting for you.
Rhody Health
Take charge of your health with regular screenings
By Sarah Toatley
With the relaxed schedules of summer, most of us aren’t thinking about our to-do lists, but when the calendar flips to September, it’s Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, followed by Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. And while screenings, or checking your body for cancers before there are any symptoms, might not sound fun, it’s a crucial part of staying well. Along with lifestyle choices like healthy eating and fitness, be sure to discuss what screenings you might be due for with your primary care physician; they can guide you based on your age, family history, and other risk factors. Remember, your health is your future and by prioritizing regular cancer screenings, you are taking a proactive step in safeguarding your well-being.
PROSTATE CANCER
Prostate cancer is a common yet serious cancer among men: one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. However, early detection through regular screenings can be life-saving. “Prostate cancer is increasingly common, but early detection through a simple blood test can be life-saving,” says Brian Kwetkowski, DO, MBA, AVP Physician Services, Medical Director of Primary Care at South County Health. “For men aged 50 and older, or 45 and older with a family history, and 40 for those at higher risk, proactive screening is essential.” The screening for prostate cancer typically involves a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, which measures the level of PSA in the blood. Elevated levels can indicate the presence of prostate cancer, prompting
further investigation. Early detection allows for a broader range of treatment options and a better chance of successful outcomes. “Screenings are not just about detecting cancer,” says Dr. Kwetkowski. “They are about empowering individuals with the knowledge that they are taking proactive steps towards their health.”
BREAST CANCER
Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the United States. Annual mammograms starting at age 40 can significantly reduce mortality rates for women of average risk. This non-invasive screening tool is an important step in catching cancer early, when it is most treatable. “Monthly self-breast exams are crucial. No matter your age, if you feel anything unfamiliar during your self-exam, please
reach out to your provider and ask for a mammogram,” says Shannon Champagne, Manager of Diagnostic Imaging at South County Health. “For women with dense breasts, additional imaging may be necessary, as dense tissue can obscure mammograms.” This is because glandular and fibrous tissues are more prevalent than fatty tissues, making it more difficult for radiologists to spot abnormalities. People with dense breasts may benefit from additional imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI, which can provide a clearer picture and help detect cancers that mammograms might miss.
“Whether it’s a mammogram, a PSA test, or any other type of cancer screening, the key is consistency. Regular check-ups and screenings significantly improve outcomes and save lives,” says Champagne.
In partnership with South County Health
BRIAN
100 Kenyon Avenue, Wakefield 401-782-8000
SouthCountyHealth.org
Reach for the Moon
Not even thunderstorms could dampen spirits for a sunset session on the beach
By Karen Greco
The vibrations are high tonight.”
Michele Maker, co-director of All That Matters Yoga + Wellness in Wakefield, sweeps her arm at the mist creeping over the sand at South Kingstown Town Beach. An ominous black cloud hovers just southeast of where dozens of eager yogis have mats and blankets out for the first night of a summer South County staple, All That Matters’ Full Moon Yoga on the Beach.
Even under the gathering storm clouds, with the wind whipping around us, the mood was jovial. Fellow yogis greeted each other with hugs, catching up after a long winter hibernation. “We don’t want to cancel,” Maker continues as the first thunderstorm of the summer threatens its arrival. “He leaves tomorrow.” She nods to a tall, slim, gray-haired gentleman in a loose T-shirt and board shorts standing where the sand meets grass. Devarshi Steven Hartman, former dean of the famed Kripalu School of Yoga in the Berkshires, just finished a Pranotthan Yoga Teacher Training at All That Matters and was leading tonight’s Full Moon Yoga class before flying back home to Hawaii.
Hartman’s calm and playful presence put storm watchers at ease, and he invited us off the grass and onto the beach. All five senses lit up immediately: soft sand sliding through my toes, the hard crash of waves in my ears, the smell of salt water. Under the low light of the gathering storm, with wind wrapping around our bodies, Hartman began the session with a series of Tai Chi movements as a warmup, leading to some easy swinging twists to add to the levity.
Our bodies primed for the main event, we headed back to the grass just as thunder boomed its arrival. The dark clouds delivered fat drops of rain to the ground. With lightning striking off in the distance, Mother Nature won. Hartman announced the yoga session was moving to the All That Matters studio. We all piled into our cars, snaked out of the town beach lot, and cruised south on Route 2 to downtown Wakefield.
THE FIRST SUPERMOON
Don’t miss the final Full Moon Yoga on the Beach, August 19 at 7:30pm at South Kingstown Town Beach, Matunuck. Bring a yoga mat or towel, layered clothing, and bug spray. This series benefits the studio’s free community outreach programs and scholarship fund. Registration required. AllThatMattersWellness.org
Photo courtesy of All That Matters
The All That Matters studio is a calming oasis that anchors the retail stores and restaurants along a blossoming Main Street. By 8:15pm, still before the sun lowered, we replaced our mats on the wood floor of the largest studio room. Under the safety of a roof, musician and chant artist Sherrie Howard joined us for the rest of the class, playing live music and leading us in beautiful chants.
Hartman’s eyes sparkled when he invited us to “lean into discomfort,” of our still-wet clothes, setting the tone for a warm, welcoming, and playful session.
After a few simple movements to recenter ourselves in our new environment, Hartman instructed us to find a partner of similar height – “someone you don’t know,” he requests – to begin a series of balance poses. I clasped hands
with my new friend Pamela and we moved through the sequence, hands squeezing when balance got the best of us, giggling our way through the progression.
The active session wrapped with the Moon Salutation, which Hartman explained honors the divine feminine. After we gathered into three concentric circles, and with musician Howard in the center, we progressed through a series of poses before stepping left and kicking off the sequence again, moving in a circle. The music matched our rhythmic motions, leading to a collaborative dance in honor of the moon.
We settled back to our mats for a 20-minute savasana. An All That Matters yogi stopped by to ease my shoulders away from my ears, a job hazard of being a writer. Hartman led us through a beautiful guided meditation that
kept us anchored in the present and reminded us of the importance of self-love and grace.
While not extensive, I have some experience on a yoga mat. But my practice was always a solo endeavor: me, my mat, the cues of an instructor. Strength and athleticism were core to my practice, and my goal was to wrap myself into pretzel poses to prove what, exactly? That I could?
Right before the Moon Salutation, Hartman pulled on this thread, explaining that the athletic flow of sun salutations actually comes to yoga via the burpee-style exercises favored by the British soldiers during India’s occupation. Some 250 years later, we have competitive yoga. This, however, was yoga as community. And in that room with a bunch of my sweaty, stormsoaked South County neighbors, I felt part of something as big as the Strawberry Moon.
Photo courtesy of All That Matters All
Marisca and Cathy Cesario
Walking into August...
Dude, Where’s My Beach?
Coastal communities grapple with costly choices as climate-related sea level rise and increasingly heavy storms continue to swallow up the shoreline
In partnership with The Public’s Radio • ThePublicsRadio.org • By Alex Nunes
Taylor Ellis loves the Rhode Island shoreline so much that about a year-and-half ago he decided to see as much of it as possible. By foot. The long-time South Kingstown resident walked most of the state’s ocean-facing beach: from Westerly up the coast, down to Little Compton and even into Massachusetts. He walked around the islands where he could pass through legally –Aquidneck, Jamestown, and Block Island.
“I really, really loved doing that,” Ellis said on a recent visit to Narragansett Town Beach. “Just feeling the sea air on your face, hearing the ocean waves coming to the shore – all of that,
with me, just gives me a feeling of peace.”
But his journey was also an eye-opener. Ellis saw, even back in 2022, how the beaches are disappearing. Some of the hardest hit areas in Rhode Island have been eroding at a rate of five feet per year, or 250 feet over the last half century, according to J.P. Walsh, professor of oceanography at the University of Rhode Island. The Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council says, on average, the state’s coast is losing .7 feet per year to erosion, and barriers are eroding at a rate of .9 feet per year.
On his walks, Taylor Ellis saw how dunes had vanished in places, replaced by dramatic
cross sections of earth and exposed root systems. Beach sand was being washed away or overtaken by the rising water. “Especially in South Kingstown and Charlestown, like along those sections of shores, there’s houses that are in the surf zone now,” Ellis said. “You have to walk underneath the houses as you walk along the beach, and you see electrical wires dangling and old plumbing fixtures and pipes and propane tanks.” This past winter, things got worse. According to Walsh, the URI researcher and professor, the severe storms this past winter eroded some areas of beach more than 15 feet from where they were last November.
South Kingstown resident Taylor Ellis walks north of Narragansett Town Beach on May 15, 2024
by Alex Nunes
Photo
COMMUNITIES FACE HUGE COSTS FOR BEACH RESTORATION
Towns and the state are opening their wallets in response to the damage. Narragansett spent more than $125,000 on sand replenishment and infrastructure repairs at its town beach. The town is also asking the federal government for another $125,000 to cover the expense of replacing a damaged stone wall in the Bonnet Shores area.
In southern Rhode Island alone, the combined actual and expected cost of beach-related cleanup for Westerly, South Kingstown, and Rhode Island’s eight state beaches is about $460,000 and counting. North Kingstown has to restructure the town beach seawall and doesn’t know the estimated cost yet. In Charlestown, among the hardest hit areas, the cost to repair a damaged breachway could be in the millions. “We’ve had massive erosion along the beach,” Charlestown state Rep. Tina Spears said. “It’s changed completely from last year to this year … We didn’t have a beach initially, when I came down here in early spring or late winter.”
Spears stood on the east side of the Charlestown Breachway, looking out across the water to where about 30 yards of the stone barrier was washed away as a result of the winter storms. Spears is now co-sponsoring a bill to create a commission to look into mitigating beach erosion. She also wants the state to create a strategic plan for responding to threats from sea level rise.
“I think we need to get ahead of it,” she said. “It’s not going away. Seas are warming. Storms are getting stronger. As a community and as a legislator, policymaker, I feel it’s important that we take action.” Others agree. “Give us some money for sand,” said Caswell Cooke, head of the Misquamicut Business Association. “That’s the only way you can fix this – more sand on the beach.”
Cooke spoke on the patio of the Windjammer Surf Bar in Misquamicut, as people sipped drinks and lounged in Adirondack chairs, their feet up on a seawall that holds back the waves. Nearby, crews worked a backhoe and bulldozer on the beach in front of a mobile home park. Misquamicut is a roughly three-mile barrier beach in Westerly between Winnapaug Pond and the Atlantic Ocean. The area is notorious for how hard it gets hit during storms, and the main road here – Atlantic Avenue – is prone to flooding and getting buried in sand.
“Some of these businesses don’t even have five years left before it’s too late,” Cooke said. “We
don’t have time for a 10-year study. It’s either you need to get federal funds to buy everybody on the street out, remove the road, remove the water, remove the infrastructure, remove the electric – I think that’d be hundreds of millions of dollars –or we could put some sand on the beach.”
Cooke is the first to acknowledge he doesn’t have a degree in coastal science or engineering. He’s a part-time DJ/realtor/beach food trailer operator and a Westerly politician. But he does have a plan to protect Misquamicut that’s based on projects in other states he’s looked into. He says it’s simple. Set up a barge a couple miles out and dredge the ocean floor. Pipe the sand ashore and build up the dunes. Then raise and extend the sandy beaches, and you’ve bought the community some time.
“It is a band aid. But it’s a band aid that will have a lasting effect for a decade,” Cooke said. “And if the band aid works, you apply a new band aid.”
The band-aid is expensive. Cooke acknowledges a plan like his could cost upwards of $30 million. But he went ahead and made his pitch earlier this month to the Westerly Town Council, with the idea that the funds would come from local, state and federal sources.
One councilor, Dylan LaPietra, said flat out no and argued it’s better to let nature take its
course at the Misquamicut barrier beach. Others, like Councilor Joy Cordio, were open to Caswell Cooke’s proposal but skeptical of the idea of spending money indefinitely on short-term fixes.
“How long can we stave off Mother Nature? She’s going to win,” Cordio said. “We also have to think 20 years ahead. When do we prohibit rebuilding? When do we retreat? … I don’t think it’s feasible every 10 years to try to maintain, as sad as it is, our beaches.”
Those are questions being asked in coastal communities across the region. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, sea levels along the US coastline could rise, on average, 10 to 12 inches by 2050 and two feet by the end of the century. If we fail to curb emissions, they could rise up to another five feet.
In Rhode Island, much of the debate about beaches in recent years has been about who gets to access them and where. But another question has become just as relevant: What’s going to be left of our beaches to enjoy?
Part of “Washout: Our vanishing beaches,” a series about the reshaping of Rhode Island’s shoreline. This article was originally posted on May 28, 2024. Alex Nunes can be reached at ANunes@ThePubicsRadio.org
Crews work on the beach in front of the Jim’s Beach Misquamicut mobile home park on May 13, 2024
Photo by Alex Nunes
uri.edu/mba
Meadowbrook Waldorf School nurtures children with meaningful learning experiences to inspire
Learn more about our approach and our 28 acre woodland campus at meadowbrookschool.com
T e Must List
a statewide listing of events visit us online!
Through August 28: Summer Wednesdays, the Mediterranean Night Market series captures the lavish cuisine and lively atmosphere of the region with traditional favorites, creative selections, and beer and wine at Théa at Dune Cottage. Watch Hill, OceanHouseEvents.com
Through August 17: The Sound of Music , one of the most beloved musicals of all time, comes to Theatre By The Sea featuring the timeless story and iconic songs like “Do-Re-Mi,” “My Favorite Things,” and “Edelweiss.” Wakefield, TheatreByTheSea.com
August 2-4: Enjoy the region’s best at the annual Charlestown Seafood Festival at Ninigret Park, and stick around for midway rides, rock wall climbing, a car show, arts and crafts vendors, and fireworks on Saturday night. CharlestownSeafoodFestival.com
August 3: Downtown Westerly comes to life for the 22nd annual River Glow , a family-friendly evening of live entertainment, art, and floating bonfires on the Pawcatuck River. Rain date is August 4. Westerly, OceanChamber.org
August 3: Create a fairy house with natural materials for your favorite small critter to visit at Tea-Time and Fairy Houses for Children , a family-friendly event held at the Audubon Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge. Exeter, ASRI.org
August 9: RI-based musician Big Lux , known for his high-energy blend of violin and hiphop, performs with his full band, during a busy month of concerts at the Knickerbocker Music Center. Westerly, KnickMusic.com
August 10-12: Peruse handmade pieces, paintings, photography, and more at the Block Island Arts and Artisans Festival , an openair event held on the grounds of the Narragansett Inn. Facebook: Block Island Arts and Artisans Festival
August 14-18: The Washington County Fair is back for its 58th year with livestock shows, tractor pulls, arm wrestling, and top country artists, including Thompson Square, Maddi & Tae and Adam Doleac. Richmond, WashingtonCountyFair-RI.com
Through August 18: Shakespeare on the Saugatucket presents Twelfth Night , the enduring comedy about shipwrecked twins who explore love, secret identities, and mischievous schemes, held Wednesdays and Sundays. Wakefield, ContemporaryTheaterCompany.com
August 30-September 1: Emmylou Harris and Old Crow Medicine Show headline this year’s Rhythm & Roots , an extravaganza that features a roster of acts and 1,500 camping tickets for those planning to make a weekend out of it. Charlestown, RhythmAndRoots.com
Photo courtesy of Rhode Island Food and Travel
Mediterranean Night Markets at Ocean House
COCKTAIL CULTURE
WHETHER SHAKEN, STIRRED, MUDDLED, OR EVEN CAGED, DESTINATIONS ACROSS THE STATE ARE PUTTING THEIR STAMPS ON CLASSIC DRINKS
BY GINA MASTROSTEFANO
From housing one of America’s oldest breweries to being one of the most defiant states during Prohibition, you could say Rhode Island itself is perhaps the biggest speakeasy of the Northeast, hiding in plain sight. Though often celebrated for our small-but-mighty dining scene, food isn’t the only thing this state’s crafty industry professionals have gone to great lengths to perfect. Local restaurateurs and mixologists are shaking up creative takes on beloved boozy beverages and taking risks with unexpected flavors and techniques. Whether you’re new to the cocktail scene, or ready to try something different, here’s a splash of places worth giving a shot!
The Café
EPICUREAN FOR THE
While there is no shortage of alcohol to be consumed on Broadway, BAR 12 is tailored to guests looking for a peaceful oasis to wind down after work, or get some preor post-dinner drinks with friends. The smooth, modern atmosphere makes you feel relaxed before alcohol even touches your lips. They also offer a limited food menu that pairs perfectly with their creative catalog of cocktails. Seating is first-come, first-served, and reservations are not accepted, so plan accordingly, and check out enticing Date Night Thursday deals.
ORDER THIS: The Shrub It Off is a spicy margarita lover’s dream, offering an elegant and refreshing twist on the genre with lime and yuzu soda, 21 Seeds Cucumber Jalapeño Tequila, and a homemade shrub made up of muddled strawberry, habanero peppers, and vinegar. The rich cocktail is served with a cilantro, cucumber, and black strawberry salt garnish. For a smokier iteration, the bartender recommends subbing the tequila for mezcal.
PAIR WITH: When in Newport, you can’t go wrong with some Shrimp Cocktail. The refreshing raw bar staple is served with a homemade cucumber and tomato horseradish salsa that complements the spicy and saltiness of the Shrub It Off. Alternatively, go for the Deviled Eggs that are thoughtfully garnished with pickle salsa and microgreens sourced from Interstellar Microgreens in West Warwick. 12 Broadway, Newport
SHRUBBING IT OFF WITH LIGHT BITES AT BAR 12
by Gina
Photography
Mastrostefano
EXPLORER FOR THE
If you plan to visit PALO TAPAS BAR in Providence, make a reservation ASAP because you rarely see an empty seat at this downtown gem, and for good reason. Palo has become a favorite amongst locals for their eclectic tapas (small plates) with international flavors, and an unmatched cocktail menu. From the food to the drinks to the quaint and artistic ambiance, Palo scores a 10 across the board.
ORDER THIS: The Cubano Viejo is a take on an Old Cuban, a mojito-like cocktail that consists of white rum, dry Spanish vermouth, lime, mint, and cava – a Champagne-like sparkling wine – and garnished with lime and bitters. The secret, according to owner Samir Zaiter, is not to skimp out on the mint. The drink is vibrantly green, and insanely refreshing. It’s everything you love about a classic mojito, but better.
PAIR WITH: You can’t go wrong with anything off of Palo’s rotating tapas menu, but classics like the Torreznos/Crispy Bacon and Costillas de Maíz/Corn Ribs are solid choices. Torreznos are twice-cooked fatty bacon strips with apple, celery, and herbs, served with an apricot mustard that is the stuff of dreams. Pair that with a towering basket of corn ribs, wash it down with the Cubano Viejo, and you will be making your next reservation at Palo before you even leave. 3 Steeple Street, Pro v idence
PVD’S OWN BELLINI
The pretty blush drink made from fresh peach puree and Prosecco known as a Bellini was invented by Giuseppe Cipriani, founder of Venice, Italy’s famed Harry’s Bar. Find the original cocktail and more at BELLINI , the fourth-generation Cipriani family Italian restaurant housed at The Beatrice boutique hotel in Providence.
Photography by Gina Mastrostefano
¡SALUD! WITH A CUBANA VIEJO AND G&T AT PALO
EXTROVERT FOR THE
Since opening its doors in June, THE SOCIAL HOUSE in the Apponaug neighborhood of Warwick has quickly become a happy hour haven. Unrecognizable from its previous life, the property was transformed into a stunning and soulful space with warm woods and brick, tropical wallpaper, ample seating, and elegant light fixtures. Everything is a vibe and oh-so Insta-worthy, including the drinks.
ORDER THIS: The Jungle Bird tastes as exciting as it looks: a rum cocktail served in a black bird cage. The flavor is a mod version of a Piña Colada, consisting of Madagascar Vanilla Bumbu Rum, campari, brown sugar, and pineapple, with a frothy finish and fresh fruit garnish. The Jungle Bird is a showstopper, both as a delicious drink and conversation piece.
PAIR WITH: You’ve seen charcuterie with cheese and meat, but how about something a little sweeter?
Pair The Jungle Bird with a dessert board of small treats, cookies, and pastries, gorgeously presented on a cutting board to share with your flock. 3295 Post Road, Warwick
by Gina Mastrostefano
Photography
LUMINARY FOR THE
In the heart of downtown Westerly, THE CAFÉ evokes a kind of old Hollywood glamor. The perfect storm of delicious food and drinks, dim lights, and comfy seating just might make you miss your showtime at the connected UNITED Theatre. The Café has an upscale vibe with a down-toearth feel; it’s a place where you can grab an afternoon snack at the bar in your work clothes or celebrate a milestone dressed to the nines.
ORDER THIS: Before you can understand the Dipper’s Sipper, you must first have a lesson on soupy, a coveted dry-cured pork sausage that Westerly-ians (predominantly of Italian heritage) have made for decades. There’s even a Soupy Fest, which sells out instantly. Dipper’s Sipper would be your typical old fashioned, but in a traffic-induced fever dream, Stephen Corrigan, the manager of The Café, thought “What if I fat-washed bourbon with soupy?” And so, the unique cocktail was born. The drink pays homage to the local tradition and does it with style.
PAIR WITH: Keep it classy and pair your Dipper’s Sipper with a classic 10-ounce Seared New York Strip. The classic steak dish gets a fanciful twist with a pea and parsley puree, king oyster mushrooms, a vinaigrette made of foraged ramps, and wild rice. Steak and the fat-washed cocktail is a carnivore’s delight. 3 Canal Street, Westerly
Photography by Gina Mastrostefano
ELEGANT BITES AND SIPS AT THE CAFE
RHODY RESOURCES
A SMATTERING OF SPOTS FOR MORE CREATIVE SIPPING
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COCKTAIL BARS
Clementine Cocktail Bar, Pro v idence
Courtland Club, Pro v idence
The Dean Bar, Pro v idence
Jefferson Speakeasy, Warwick
Justine’s, Pro v idence
Marcelino’s Boutique Bar, Pro v idence
Needle and Thread, Pro v idence
BARS
Askew Bar & Lounge, Pro v idence
The Avery, Pro v idence
The Eddy, Pro v idence
Kimi’s, Pro v idence
Lucky Enough, Pro v idence
Nolan’s Corner Pub, Pro v idence
Red Door, Pro v idence
Tiny Bar, Pro v idence
The Walnut Room, Pro v idence
DISTILLERIES
Dark Outpost Distilling, Pawtucket
The Industrious Spirit Company, Pro v idence
O’Brien & Brough, Bristol
Rhode Island Spirits Distillery & Tasting Room, Pawtucket
Sons of Liberty Spirits Co., South Kingstown
South County Distillers, Westerly
White Dog Distilling, Pawtucket
Working Man Distillers, Pawtucket
COCKTAILS SERVED HERE
Audrey’s Coffee House & Lounge, South Kingstown
Casa Azul Taquería, Pro v idence
CAV Restaurant, Pro v idence
Crepe Corner, Pro v idence
Ella’s Food & Drink, Westerly
Great Northern BBQ Co, Pro v idence
Main Street Coffee, East Greenwich
Maria’s Seaside Cafe, Westerly
Moonshine Alley, Pro v idence
New Harvest Coffee & Spirits, Pro v idence
Perks & Corks, Westerly
The Slow Rhode, Pro v idence
The Surf Shack Bed & Breakfast, Narragansett
Viva Mexico Cantina Grill, Pro v idence
Photos (top to bottom)
courtesy of Marcelino’s Boutique Bar, courtesy of Tiny Bar, and by Gianguzzi
Photography, courtesy of Sons of Liberty
MARCELINO’S BOUTIQUE BAR
SONS OF LIBERTY SPIRITS CO.
TINY BAR
COCKTAIL COUTURE
BY ELYSE MAJOR
While there’s no need to get fancy for your next trip to the bar, a dress code that calls for cocktail attire generally implies something semi-formal, polished, and poised. Dressing for late afternoon “cocktail hour” dates back to the 1920s with women donning short sheaths with matching accessories to private parties and speakeasies during Prohibition, but the label truly became a thing when designer Christian Dior referred to one of his designs as a cocktail dress, and marketers were off and running. “A cocktail dress typically suits any woman, regardless of her age,” says fashion designer Tatyana Ayriyan of T Ayriyan women’s clothing boutique in Newport. “It gives you an elegant and feminine look and is usually accompanied by heels and a small handbag. The length of this dress can vary from above the knee or below the knee to reach the middle of the calf. A cocktail outfit can also be a set consisting of a skirt and a blouse.” And for added bling, slip on a beautifully ostentatious cocktail ring, and you’re ready to go!
AQUAMARINE COCKTAIL RING FROM TIFFANY PEAY JEWELRY, TIVERTON
T AYRIYAN COCKTAIL DRESSES AS SEEN ON THE STYLEWEEK RUNWAY
SOCIAL MIXER
NORTH KINGSTOWN-BASED ELECTRICAL ENGINEER SPARKS JOY WITH BIWEEKLY COCKTAIL CLUB
BY ELYSE MAJOR
“Hello, everyone! My name is Jamie. I’m happy to start this new event for everyone!” begins Rhode Island Cocktail Club’s February 2023 introductory post on Instagram. The event is a biweekly meet-up open to all, occurring the second and fourth Friday or Saturday of every month, curated by electrical engineer Jamie Long, who has two other foodie platforms: Tasting RI (food) and Hoppy Purrfection (craft beer), founded in 2017 and 2023 respectively.
Originally from Middletown and eager to traverse the state from her recent home base of North Kingstown, Long’s posts on Tasting RI featuring cocktail bars often led to friends and followers mentioning that they’d like to experience these places but didn’t want to go alone. This sparked the idea to create a social gathering to introduce new spots and bring people together in a safe space. “We welcome everyone 21+ to socialize and drink together with no memberships, fees, or RSVPs,” says Long of RI Cocktail Club.
“A lot of time goes into scheduling and planning with each cocktail bar,” says Long, who is the sole organizer, and often relies on the connections she’s built over the years as an emerging local social media influencer in the foodie space. All events are arranged with the establishments weeks or months in advance, and because not all club members imbibe, selected venues offer mocktails. “On occasion, cocktail bars will adjust their hours to accommodate us,” says Long. “Cocktail bars have the opportunity to create specials for us, which has been positively received by attendees.”
When it comes to Long’s current favorite cocktails, she is quick to cite a creamy espresso martini with real espresso; pickle-tinis (found at Rhode Island Spirits and Working Man Distillers); or anything with gin and elderflower or banana. “I’m known for my love for banana-flavored drinks!” she exclaims. Long is a fan of the summer drink trend of floral beverages like lavender lemonade, which she’s seen appearing on specials boards.
The best part for Long is meeting new people and witnessing friendships and connections made through the club. “It’s exciting to find and try new places together, and each gathering is filled with excitement,” she says. “Attendees are always inquiring where the next RI Cocktail Club will be!”
MAI TAI OLD FASHIONED
RI SPIRITS PICKLETINI
ALE HOUSE ESPRESSO MARTINI
MARCELINO’S APRICOT
JAMIE LONG
Photos courtesy of Jamie Long
I’LL HAVE WHAT SHE’S HAVING
Jamie Long, founder of RI Cocktail Club shares a few favorites:
BLACKSTONE HERB + MARTINI BAR
Reese’s Espresso Martini: Loaded with Reese’s peanut butter, it’s delicious. When I’m feeling indecisive, this is the perfect spot. Food and drinks are available in flights so you can try everything! Co v entry, BlackstoneCo v entry.com
THE EDDY
Temperance Hill: They recently refreshed the menu and this one immediately spoke to me, with floral, lavender notes – yes, please! The Eddy is a small bar with great drinks and small plates. The menu changes on occasion and always has great hits. Pro v idence, EddyPVD.com
THE JEFFERSON SPEAKEASY
Sazerac: This classic cocktail of rye whiskey, absinthe, and bitters is for anise lovers! Hidden below a restaurant, find a wide variety of cocktails, great playlist, and warm vibes at The Jefferson Speakeasy. They’re a proud supporter of RI Cocktail Club and I’m grateful for our friendship over the years. Warwick, JeffersonSpeakeasyRI.com
MARCELINO’S BOUTIQUE BAR
Apricot: This cocktail uses an apricot-infused gin to create a tart, fruity, and bitter beverage that is great all year long, and perfect for a date night. Think low lighting and comfy seats. You can cozy up with a drink and their tasty food menu. Pro v idence, MarcelinosBoutiqueBar.com
WHITE DOG DISTILLING
Old Fashioned: Order it traditional or with fun twists. Technically, this distillery and tasting room isn’t a cocktail bar, but it’s my favorite spot in Rhode Island. I discovered them in 2020 and I’ve never had a drink I didn’t like from them. Warm hospitality makes you feel right at home. Pawtucket, WhiteDogDistilling.com
One of the oldest homes in Wakefield gets a functional facelift that celebrates its past
By Ann Martini
hen retirees Maria and Jim Burdett had the opportunity to buy a 300-year-old Wakefield house nearly three years ago, it felt like kismet, and like coming home. “We fell in love with this house over 40 years ago,” explains Maria, when they met and became friends with its then-owners. “Every time we stayed in the house, it just felt so welcoming and special. It was the house of our dreams.”
But like anything so old, the house, one of the oldest in Wakefield, needed some careful attention. Enter South County-based architect Laura Krekorian, who appreciated the house’s exposed timber, wide-plank flooring, and beautifully proportioned spaces and details. “It had a lot of character and good bones, but the house is old!” Over the years, messy additions and changes left the circa 1721 house less than functional.
The scope of the new design includes the entry and porch, an expanded kitchen, relocated interior stairs, a renovated first-floor bathroom, and a renovation of the second-floor master bathroom. Notably, the new expanded kitchen addition incorporated with the porch also allowed Krekorian to re-envision and streamline the exterior. The goal?
“To make the house beautiful again with additions that look like they belong,” says the architect.
Maria and Jim respected the history of the house
as well as so many of its quirky details. “We didn’t want a museum, but a home that was functional and easy to live in,” says Maria, especially when hosting their three grown children and their families. It became about embracing the new while preserving the old; a bright white spacious kitchen addition coexists with “the 300-year-old beams in the oldest part of the house that have Roman numerals carved into them as building assembly marks,” Maria notes. “Talk about old and new!”
BEFORE AND AFTER
An addition accommodates a modern kitchen, small mudroom, and new entry.
“When working on a special property like this, our intention is always to make upgrades that look timeless and original,” says Krekorian.
Photography by George Gray Photography,
courtesy of Laura Krekorian Architect
Legged furnishings create the illusion of more space
A newly expanded primary bathroom seamlessly connects historic spaces with modern comfort
by
Maria, an avid gardener, also wanted to remove the boundaries between outside and inside so that the landscape was part of the house. “I removed all window coverings in the downstairs living areas to let as much light in as possible,” she explains. “It is really cool to view the outside world through the vitrified glass in the old windows.” Krekorian, an expert in working with coastal and agrarian landscapes, pulled in nature. “I think the lighter colors and tones in the kitchen and the baths, the shell tones in the backsplash, and the soft hues in the
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The relocation of an interior stairway facilitates the addition of a modern kitchen and invites natural light into a new connection to the existing dining room
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Outside In
“We live in a beautiful coastal place,” says Krekorian. “With every project, I try to bring that view or landscape feature into the home by carefully placing windows and openings, and sensitively locating spaces to be able to take in the perfect sunset, a beautiful view, and the best natural lighting.”
Discover Wakefield
“There is something very relaxing about the area’s slower pace,” says homeowner Maria Burdett. “Most roads have a 25 miles-per-hour speed limit so you have to slow down and take in the beauty of your surroundings. Being so close to the beaches also offers opportunities to enjoy the ocean breezes and take walks in all seasons.”
Clear Favorities
“We love Wakefield and its charming downtown,” says Maria. “We can walk to get coffee, ice cream, or dinner!” They have also found a place to add to their growing glass collection. The Glass Station on Wakefield’s Main Street is a gallery featuring the works of national and local glassblowers.
countertops in combination with the natural wood on the island and stair rail give the home a coastal feel but one that is comfortable and timeless,” she says of Maria’s design choices.
“We have embraced the history of the house by keeping its integrity, yet made it so much more functional and comfortable,” says Maria. “I think this translates to guests when they walk in; they are awed by the traditional features and eased by the modern improvements.”
Photography by George Gray Photography, courtesy of Laura Krekorian Architect
Harwood Putty by Benjamin Moore is used throughout spaces
Meet Matty Durgin
This affable bartender/general manager shares what’s shaking in the city’s tiny cocktail bar
By Elyse Major
What can first-time visitors to Tiny Bar in Providence expect?
Tiny Bar is a little oasis serving handmade craft cocktails in the heart of the Jewelry District. We have six seats indoors at our main bar and an expansive outdoor garden space that allows for drinking al fresco. Soon, we will offer additional seating in our new glass house structure, featuring a retractable roof!
What are your favorite cocktails to make, and why?
My favorite cocktail to make is the Mai Tai. There have been innumerous versions and variations of the drink since its creation. I believe wholeheartedly in Trader Vic’s original 1944 formula. Although the original rum used has long been obsolete, we serve ours with a blend of exotic rums that does the recipe justice. It requires just the right amount of crushed ice, just the right amount of shaking (so as not to over-dilute), and it’s always a turn-on for firsttime imbibers. It may be a tropical drink but it’s a solid choice for any season.
What’s the perfect summertime cocktail?
Personally, I always lean into tropical preparations. We also offer three ever-changing frozen drinks. As of this chat, we offer a frozen Cucumber + Mint Moscow Mule, a frozen Painkiller, and our frozen Tiny Bar Margarita. That said, I think a spritz cocktail is always the drink of summer.
When you’re not mixing things up on Richmond Street, what do you like to do around RI?
As uninteresting as it may sound, I take long walks around the city. I live in Fox Point, so I frequent Twenty Stories, which is an awesome independent bookshop. I enjoy a glass of wine and a burger at The East End on a Sunday afternoon, and occasionally I indulge in a little treat from East Side Cheese. All that said, I’m usually with my daughter at the skatepark or at the beach. Time is precious, so I try to make the most of it.
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Six suspenseful thrillers sure to keep you at the edge of your beach chair
By Robin Kall
Rhody Reads W
ho likes to guess who the murderer is as they are reading? Sometimes I can’t help myself, but I prefer the full effect of the reveal. Whether it’s the soaring temperatures, longer days, or simply the time to keep those pages turning, August is made for thrillers! We still have plenty of sunlight left, so whether you love to read at the beach, snuggled in a hammock, or in your favorite indoor spot with the air conditioning blasting, here are six thrilling novels to add to your stack!
The Next Mrs. Parrish is the long-awaited follow-up to Liv Constantine’s bestselling novel, The Last Mrs. Parrish . While her latest novel is a stand-alone, there is extra fun if you’ve read the first book. I’ve been known to read out of order, which gives a whole other perspective on the characters. While Constantine’s books are fast-paced and plot-driven, it’s the deep dive into the characters that keeps me turning the pages.
Love a good domestic suspense novel? Kimberly McCreight of A Good Marriage and Friends Like These (the titles alone, right?) brings us Like Mother, Like Daughter . This gripping novel by the New York Times bestselling author taps into all of the high notes: fraught relationships, misunderstandings, and a mother who will protect their child at whatever cost. This propulsive read will keep you up, so don’t say I didn’t warn you.
The Hollywood Assistant by May Cobb is one of those novels you read and think: well surely, we’ll be watching this on the screen sometime soon; think Devil Wears Prada meets The White Lotus . As the subtitle teases, “her big break will lead to big trouble,” which is what happens to Cassidy Foster when she lands what seems to be her dream job in Hollywood working for a famous couple. When one of them is found dead, Cassidy is a suspect!
Lily Samson’s debut novel The Switch is a seductive dance involving obsession and two couples, so buckle in because it is quite a ride! The plot centers on Elena and Adam, a young couple who are house-sitting in a posh London neighborhood; when Elena meets their neighbors, she becomes obsessed with the pair. The four become fast friends and a secret partner swap is suggested. What could go wrong?
Another debut is Knife River by Justine Champine, the haunting tale of Jess and Liz, two teenage sisters whose mother goes missing after a walk. Fifteen years later, when they learn their mother’s remains have been found, younger sister Jess must return to the small town she fled and finds Liz frozen in time and obsessed with missing persons cases. Jess plans to stay until the case of their mother is solved, but the sisters have old wounds to heal, wrongs to right, and perhaps a chance at a new life.
From the beloved author who brought us The Guest List , it’s The Midnight Feast by Lucy Foley. This locked-room murder mystery has all the elements of the perfect whodunit. It’s the opening night of The Manor, a luxurious resort where guests have come to rejuvenate and relax, but old friends and enemies are afoot, and when a body is discovered it’s anyone’s guess as to which guest is guilty.
ABOUT ROBIN KALL
Taking the advice of her mother, Robin Kall never leaves home without a book. “People want to know what I’m reading,” says the “fairy book mother” widely known under the moniker Reading With Robin (RWR). Based in East Greenwich, since 2002 Kall has been connecting readers and writers via author events and interviews, book clubs, giveaways, a podcast, and online platforms. A self-made force in literary and publishing circles, Kall receives advance review copies of books, and hosts popular events that have included authors Wally Lamb, Jodi Picoult, and Alice Hoffman, among many others.
READING WITH ROBIN EVENTS
Please consider patronizing your local independent bookstore when making book purchases
On August 23, from 9am-4pm, join Robin Kall and publishing coach Lisa Tener for the Seaside Writing Retreat for Creative Flow. This one-day event in Narragansett includes lively discussion, a delicious lunch, writing prompts, a Q&A, writerly swag, and more. Learn more and register at LisaTener.com.
Oh, What a Beautiful Day
An attainable afternoon escape awaits in Richmond
By Elyse Major
Recently a TV commercial from 1978 enjoyed a moment on TikTok. A blurry upload shows a screen split into four with images of highway traffic, a crying baby, what looks like an angry boss holding a telephone, and a barking dog. In the center foreground, a woman dressed for a day at the office in a silky tie-neck blouse has clearly had it, and yells to the camera, pleading, “Calgon, take me away!” Jump cut to her smiling, sans clothes, in a tub full of bubbles, someplace fabulous; the box of Calgon strategically placed in the frame. “Lose yourself in luxury.” End scene.
Forty-six years later, we all still experience those moments of wanting some pampering, and an escape from drudgery and distractions, even if just for a few hours. Of course, this is where spas come into play. However, if you are looking to linger for longer than a massage or pedicure, a day pass to OH! Spa at The Preserve in Richmond might be the takeme-away-cation you seek.
At press time, day passes to OH! Spa are $100, require reservation, and guests must be 18 years of age. From 9am to 6pm, you have access to the rural resort’s whirlpool, steam room and sauna in both the men’s and women’s
locker rooms, the co-ed whirlpools, the cold plunge shower, and infinity pool. The spa is located on the lower level of the Hilltop Lodge, the hotel at the gated 3,500-acre property. Arrive, pour a glass of fruit-infused water, and check in at the spa reception desk. If you schedule a service, you’ll wait in the common relaxation room nibbling on dried fruit and nut mixes on a tufted chaise lounge chair, or head directly to the locker room to slip into a white robe before retrieving the provided slippers and grooming necessities from your locker.
Before dipping into the whirlpool, wander
Leaving the world behind at OH! Spa whirlpool
over to the Lily Pad, a luminous space within the spa facility with floral decor cascading from the ceiling. Depending on the day, tables of sweet treats and refreshments like mimosas are offered. After your dip in the water, no need to worry about bringing home a wet bathing suit because there is a bathing suit dryer in the locker room – so just drop it in, close the lid, and the extractor spins out most of the water. If you find yourself sitting in a white robe, sipping a mimosa with your legs dangling in the whirlpool, you will truly feel taken away.
“My goal is to bring my client’s vision to life and create an extraordinary, stylish and authentic wedding or event that will not only be cherished,
Be a Passenger Prince/Princess
Imagine getting picked up in a luxurious Bentley car and being driven to and from your spa treatment? Well, it’s a thing if you book one of the OH! Spa’s Beauty & Bentley Experiences. Pick-up location must be within 15 miles of The Preserve. Learn more at OHSpaAtThePreserve.com.
GOOD TO KNOW
• Cell phones are not allowed in any areas of the spa.
• Allow 24 hours notice to change or cancel a reservation to avoid being charged in full.
• There’s a spa boutique where you can buy bath and body products.
• Swimsuits are required in all co-ed areas.
• The spa cannot be responsible for any loss or damage or personal articles, so leave the valuables at home.
Benches with towels are at the ready
Photos courtesy of The Zimmerman Agency
Teddy Bearskins
Children’s clothing boutique
What it is:
A family-owned children’s clothing store.
Where to find it:
Teddy Bearskins has two storefronts –Wickford Village and inside Benny’s Plaza in East Greenwich – and a warehouse store at 135 Frenchtown Road open on Fridays. All locations have parking and adorable window displays of children’s clothing.
What makes it a Rhody Gem?
Looking for quality kids’ clothing, accessories, and toys, paired with knowledgeable customer service and gift wrapping? Founder Deb Semple has been selling children’s goods for 40 years. “We’ve seen generations come through the store, so we’ve watched the kids grow from babies up to being parents themselves,” Semple begins. “That’s the most rewarding thing to see: the kids that we dressed, now dressing their kids.” Inside, goods fill the shop in displays that are playful and organized without being overwhelming. The North Kingstown location near scenic Wickford Cove provides a breezy vibe to the storefront. “The beauty of this state is unbelievable,” says Francie Christophersen, the store manager who has been with the company for 39 years. “We’re very, very lucky to be able to live here with all this beauty around us.”
Teddy Bearskins
5600 Post Road, East Greenwich 17 Brown Street, North Kingstown 135 Frenchtown Road, EG/NK line TeddyBearskins.com
Every neighborhood has that secret, hidden, cool and unusual, or hole-in-the-wall spot that locals love. We’re on the hunt for Rhody Gems! Email Elyse@HeyRhody.com to suggest yours and we just might feature it!
Photo by Ella Corrao
Discover the flavors of Rhode Island! From fresh seafood shacks to farm-to-table eateries, little Rhody offers a diverse culinary landscape that caters to all tastes. Indulge in delicious seafood, global cuisines, and locally-inspired dishes, and experience the culinary richness of the Ocean State with a dining experience that will leave you craving for more.
Bistro style Brunch and Lunch. Fine Dining Dinner.
8 locations across RI! Chelos.com |
A Rhode Island staple since 1955! Fresh, homemade deliciousness in every bite.
The Coast Guard House Restaurant 40 Ocean Rd, Narragansett | 401-789-0700 thecoastguardhouse.com | Waterfront dining - local raw bar, lobster, pasta, steak & seafood. Award-winning wine list. Dining rooms, bars, patio & deck.
Dave’s Fresh Marketplace Ten Locations throughout Rhode Island 401-558-0190 | davesmarketplace.com/WeeklySpecials Made fresh daily in our kitchens - 60+ Take Out Options!
137 Main Street, East Greenwich 401-885-8787 |
MainStreet-Cofee.com
Casual cofee house meets hip martini bar. Best Espresso Martinis in Rhode Island.
Marcelino’s Boutique Bar 1 W Exchange St, Providence | 401-666-0088 marcelinosboutiquebar.com | Craft cocktail bar serving Mid-Terranean Fusion Mezze and World-Class Craft Cocktails | #ItsMarcelinos
Twin Willows
865 Boston Neck Road, Narragansett 401-789-8153 | TwinWillowsRI.com |
Water-view dining with fresh lobsters & steamers served daily in this casual sports bar/restaurant.
MainStreet Cofee
Chelo’s Hometown Bar & Grille
FEATURE
Tap Into Fun
Breweries hosting crafty collabs provide grown-ups with a creative night out
By Emily Olson
n the alchemy of brewing, creativity is the essential ingredient that distinguishes craft beer from its mass-produced counterparts. From conceiving a concept to formulating a recipe with a distinctive flavor profile, brewers depend not only on their expertise but also on a generous dose of imagination to envision an enticing pint.
But why should brewers have all the fun? Local breweries are sharing the joy of creativity with their patrons by partnering with local workshop instructors to add some innovative events to calendars already stacked with the usual trivia and karaoke nights. The offerings bring a different energy to chill patio spaces, and the cross-promotion helps both the breweries and educators develop larger communities.
The majority of beers trace their roots to hops, so it makes sense to pair plant care with a pint.
Tim Arsenault, founder of Bonsai Bar, regularly partners with Rhode Island breweries to teach beginner workshops on bonsai design. His pop-up shop appears at the high-top tables of breweries across the state, including LineSider Brewing in East Greenwich and Whalers Brewing Company in South Kingstown. The breweries provide the space, and Arsenault brings in the folks interested in quaffing a pint while taking in his two-hour workshop. Each attendee is provided with a tree and a planter and learns how to pot the mini-specimen, style it, and care for it later. Arsenault says the marriage of bonsai and brew is a logical one. “We can make a mess because the breweries are used to hosing the floor down,” he jokes.
Arsenault says the magic of bonsai workshops is that people enter it with no preconceived notions about their talent for trimming or lack thereof.
“There’s a really cool energy at our workshops because people fall in love with bonsai. There’s something about getting your hands into the soil that brings out a childlike sense of wonder,” he says. “And they end up with a beautiful, living piece of art capable of thriving.”
RAISE A CLASS
Watch for workshops and events happening at these South County breweries this month and beyond, and follow the pop-up hosts online for more.
BREWERIES
APPONAUG BREWING COMPANY Warwick | ApponaugBrewing.com
LINESIDER BREWING CO. East Greenwich | LinesiderBrewing.com
SHAIDZON BEER COMPANY West Kingston | ShaidzonBeer.com
TILTED BARN BREWERY Exeter | TiltedBarnBrewery.com
WHALERS BREWING COMPANY South Kingstown | Whalers.com
POP-UP WORKSHOPS
ARROW TAROT ArrowTarot.com
BELLISSIMO BOARDS
BellissimoBoardsRI.squarespace.com
BONSAI BAR
BonsaiBar.com
(Register now for August 11 at LineSider)
Sip beer while planting tiny trees with Bonsai Bar
Bonsai Bar pops up at Smug Brewing in Pawtucket
Photos courtesy of Bonsai Bar
Where Martha, Giada and Ina would shop if they lived in South
County
Shop in our family owned store and discover hundreds of new possibilities to drink and share. Explore and browse through our vast selection of unique wines, local upcoming summer gatherings and parties. SAVE WITH CASE DISCOUNTS. DISTINCTIVE & AFFORDABLE SELECTIONS FOR EVERYONE.
Arsenault shares that “90 percent of the people who attend the workshops have never been to the brewery before. And we’re also reaching a new audience. When brewery regulars see us setting up the tiny trees, they want to know what the workshop is all about.” This sentiment is echoed by Sara Carroll, owner of Bellissimo Boards, who offers another hands-on pairing: beer and charcuterie. “Many of the people attending
my classes are also attending the brewery for the first time,” she says.
But it’s often not the last time, especially since no two classes Carroll teaches are the same. “I use different ingredients or develop themes,” she says, describing the fresh flowers she provided for her students to incorporate into a Mother’s Day charcuterie board class. Although many people think of wine as the best pairing with cheese, there’s something
Photos courtesy of Bonsai Bar
Brewery patrons get step-by-step bonsai instruction
As we get older the age-related decline in muscle mass (8%/year) and strength known as SARCOPENIA is one of the major impediments to performing the tasks of daily living
—Peter Attia M.D./
author of OUTLIVE.
INTRODUCING THE NEEDLE FREE DOUBLE CHIN SOLUTION!
53 Narragansett Avenue, Jamestown
enticing about the way the salty edible elements meld with different brew flavor profiles, a harmony she showcases with popup workshops at spots like Tilted Barn Brewery in Exeter and Apponaug Brewing Company in Warwick.
People who attend Carroll’s classes are given a board, a box of ingredients, and an inspiration handout, but Carroll stresses that her students have total creative freedom in
how they present their completed charcuterie board. “Teaching is my passion,” Carroll says, “and this doesn’t feel like a job because I get to taste different cheeses and meats and bring that expertise into my classes.”
But not everyone likes to get their hands dirty – some prefer to spend their time in the intangible spiritual realm, and that’s where a popup like Arrow Tarot comes in. Tarot reader Jamie Chatel offers her services
Photo courtesy of Bellissimo Boards
charcuterie and brews is a perfect pairing
Treating patients for:
Musculoskeletal
See what’s in your cards with Arrow Tarot’s pop-up readings
as a fun social activity for brewery clientele. “If people are interested in tarot but are a little intimidated, this is a light, laid-back, and fun way to try it out,” she says. She’s popped up with her deck at breweries and bars around the state, including Whalers.
Chatel also benefits from the cross-promotion of these co-hosted events. “I bring a few of my followers in and people sign up ahead of time from the breweries’ promotion,” she says. Her advice for a first timer? “Just have an open mind.” She also recommends the activity for a perfect date night. “It’s fun, it’s memorable, and it gives
Photo courtesy of Arrow Tarot
you something to talk about for the rest of the night.” She cautions, however, that you might not want to let your partner eavesdrop on your reading.
While some breweries use workshops and events to create an atmosphere, Chip Samson, co-owner and president of Shaidzon Beer Co. takes a different approach. “You can lead your brewery’s culture to an extent,” he says. “But in some ways, your clientele tells you who you are.” When Samson opened the brewery in West Kingston near the University of Rhode Island, he and his co-owners assumed they’d host a college
Escape to likeatuelocal
Spendy summe Matunuck
crowd. But instead, an older audience that loves jam bands started to trickle in. “We embraced that, and eventually developed a following,” says Samson, describing how the brewery selects the bands it books.
One popular act Shaidzon regularly hosts is Eddy’s Shoe, a Grateful Dead tribute band that’s been playing together for 30 years. In 1978, the Grateful Dead recorded a song called “Shakedown Street” that appeared on an album of the same name. Deadheads eventually adopted the name to refer to the area outside of concerts where
Photo courtesy of Shaidzon
all
vendors set up to sell their wares. This story inspired Samson to create an imitation Shakedown Street event that takes place before and after Eddy’s Shoe performances, partnering with popup craft market Field of Artisans to develop a popular twice-annual tribute event.
“These events add a different atmosphere to the beer garden, and I’ve heard people say they appreciate the culture we’re creating,” Samson says. “People come in, they enjoy the music, and they’re in a comfortable spot to enjoy some good beer.”
AUG. 30-31 + SEPT. 1, 2024
NINIGRET PARK CHARLESTOWN, RI
EMMYLOU HARRIS
OLD CROW MEDICINE SHOW
DRIVE-BY TRUCKERS LARKIN POE
DANIEL DONATO’S COSMIC COUNTRY SISTER SPARROW & THE DIRTY BIRDS REBIRTH BRASS BAND THE STRUMBELLAS
RUTHIE FOSTER • SHEMEKIA COPELAND • GA-20
GRADY SPENCER & THE WORK • YARN • COUSIN CURTISS WILL EVANS • JULIA PRATT
ROSE & THE BROS • C-4 AVEC STEVE RILEY
NATHAN & THE ZYDECO CHA CHAS
CEDRIC WATSON & BIJOU CREOLE • PINE LEAF BOYS
CHRISTINE OHLMAN & REBEL MONTEZ WITH THE SIN SISTERS & FRANK VIELE
From espresso martinis to candy-garnished mocktails, a pop-up beverage cart has sips for all preferences
By Cynthia Munrayos
Aprim white drink cart known as Sippin’ Pretty has been rolling up to parties big and small across the state, serving up themed beverages for all ages that are as Insta-worthy as they are delicious. The woman behind the mini-bar is Nichole Bonollo. A drink connoisseur, she started her journey into mixology as a bartender, and the serial entrepreneur has owned small businesses since age 23, thriving in the hospitality sphere and dipping her toes in everything from beauty to catering, including a meal-prep concept called Just Like Mom’s Catering. Along the way, she began participating in pop-up vendor events and later teamed up with her friend and business partner, Caitlin Carlia Weakley, to create All in Fun events.
FOOD & DRINK
“I always just wanted to show other people my talents and love for hospitality, and that you can do whatever you want to do,” says Bonollo. All in Fun is the umbrella company that provides comprehensive party-planning services for organizing special events, and includes the beverage-focused Sippin’ Pretty. Bonollo leads the drink program, while Weakley specializes in graphic design and handles the decorating, invitations, and signage. The dynamic duo curates
personalized experiences for their clients with an eye for all the details. “It didn’t make sense for me to launch just Sippin’ Pretty when Caitlin is so good at all of the other things that have to do with parties,” relays Bonollo.
Their drink menu can be catered to the client’s preference, from custom drinks to triedand-true favorites. “An espresso martini is my most requested wedding beverage,” says Bonollo. For summer, a popular choice is vodka with
fruit puree of choice, topped off with a splash
High Noon hard seltzer.
Sippin’ Pretty parties aren’t just for adults. For kids, she mixes up the booze-free Shark Attack – blue lemonade, Sprite or sparkling water, Swedish Fish, and a fun straw to tie it all together. “When I started Sippin’ Pretty, I never imagined that I would be doing kids’ birthday parties, but they are a lot of fun,” Bonollo explains.
Themed drinks from a decorated cart breathe life into any party
Photo courtesy of Sippin’ Pretty
When they’re not busy working weddings and birthday party gigs, Sippin’ Pretty also frequents the brewery circuit serving up non-alcoholic beverages. “People love mocktails,” says Bonollo, explaining that patrons have myriad reasons for not wanting to drink, and offering elevated booze-free options is essential. She uses non-alcoholic spirits such as Ritual Zero Proof products in place of tequila, gin, and rum to
reinvent classics like margaritas. “I think the mocktail game has definitely elevated since I started, and they’re more crafted now that we have more options for non-alcoholic spirit alternatives.”
Follow @sippinprettyri to see where the cart will be popping up next, and visit AllInFunEvents.com to learn how to book Sippin’ Pretty for your event.
The wine director of Watch Hill’s world-class hotel takes the pretension out of wine culture
By Andrea E. McHugh
While a student in the hospitality management school at the New York City College of Technology in Brooklyn, Matthew MacCartney immersed himself in all facets of the industry, but it was an opportunity to explore the slow food movement in Europe that ignited a spark in the young culinarian and future wine enthusiast.
“They took us on this full-immersion tour, three weeks in Piedmont, Italy. We visited 35 wineries and food producers, and I was like, ‘Wow, this is an amazing business with amazing people!’” he recalls. At the time, he was working weekends at Daniel, chef Daniel Boulud’s renowned Michelin-starred restaurant in New York, so jetting off to the lauded, vine-covered countryside was a bold move on MacCartney’s part.
“The restaurant wasn’t happy with me leaving to go to Italy for truffle season in the busiest season of the year. In fact, he was a little bit jealous, I later found out. Daniel was like, ‘I never got opportunities like this when I was your age!’” MacCartney says with a laugh.
Indulging his new passion and love of travel inspired a semester abroad in England, where he earned a diploma from the internationally recognized Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET). “I knew that I really needed to be working more in wine and not in the kitchen,” says MacCartney, who today holds a WSET Level 4 diploma, and was also a student of London’s prestigious Institute of Masters of Wine.
With no front-of-house experience, his baptism by fire was back in New York at the acclaimed Gramercy Tavern, working his way
Photos courtesy of Ocean House
MacCartney guides enthusiasts on an approchable wine tasting journey
Ocean House wine director Matthew MacCartney
up to floor manager. “[Celebrity chef] Tom Colicchio loved the idea that I was a cook and also knew wine, so he had me going around the corner with him to open Craft in 2001, and that was my first wine list.” Being amongst the who’s who of the wine world in the heart of his native New York City at a restaurant by the celebrity chef who’d become best known as the head judge on the television show Top Chef was an education unto itself, gushes MacCartney.
Despite his coveted position at the buzzy hotspot, it was there he learned one of the most important lessons of all: “That whole restaurant’s philosophy was to make wine more accessible,” he says. Decades prior, he explains, the wine space was remarkably pretentious, with no shortage of “stuffy French sommeliers” who had no qualms about making a guest feel “less than” for not having a command of all things wine.
When MacCartney relocated to Rhode Island and opened a restaurant of his own on Conanicut Island, Jamestown Fish (open from 2011 to 2018), he adopted the same approach. During his tenure there, the restaurant was a five-time recipient of Wine Spectator ’s “Best Award of Excellence,” and named one of “America’s Best 100 Wine Restaurants 2018” by Wine Enthusiast
His mission of wine for all, paired with an encyclopedic knowledge of producers around the world, positioned him perfectly to assume the role of wine director for the Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival, which he continues to guide today. When the Ocean House in Westerly was in need of a wine director early last summer, MacCartney was a natural fit.
MacCartney concedes that approaching a wine list at Ocean House or its sister property, the Weekapaug Inn, without much wine knowhow can be intimidating, but it shouldn’t be. “Trust the sommeliers and ask questions,” he advises – that’s what they expect. And don’t be afraid to express what you’re looking to spend, as it helps the sommelier point you in the right direction. “Put it on the sommelier or the person you’re talking with about wine, and be honest,” he says. “Say, ‘I like zinfandel,’ or ‘I like cabernets and this is my price range,’ and if you don’t want to mention the number because you’re in a group, just point to it.” MacCartney says that far too often, people who are not sure of which wine to choose take their best guess, which can easily lead to a
No matter your palate, MacCartney can find the perfect pour for any guest
glass or bottle you don’t enjoy, an experience no sommelier wants to see.
For those eager to explore wines at a deeper level, the Ocean House’s Center for Wine & Culinary Arts offers wine tastings, pairings, and hands-on culinary experiences, including employing a specific focus, like rosés, summer cocktails, or California cabernets. This time of year, you’re likely to spot MacCartney
selecting vintages and popping bottles at the seaside hotel’s dining options: The Bistro, COAST, or in the salty breeze outside on The Verandah at the Ocean House or Weekapaug Inn. Even if you don’t know your sancerre from your sangiovese, feel encouraged to ask him to help you find a palate-pleasing pour. Watch for monthly From Vine to Wine tastings by visiting OceanHouseEvents.com.
Photo courtesy of Ocean House
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Rendell, Historian, Author and Famed WWII Collector
Home is Where the Beignets Are
Owner of a beloved sandwich joint opens year-round restaurant combining New Orleans flavors with Westerly roots
By Andrea E. McHugh
Padraic Fazio watched as Westerly’s downtown progressively embraced a shift – a multimillion-dollar revival of the beloved United Theatre, Main Street improvements, new restaurants and bars, and a palpable new energy throughout the town perched on Rhode Island’s southern tip.
“Growing up, Westerly’s downtown wasn’t the busiest place,” recalls Fazio. “There were a lot of
vacant spaces, but it’s come around a lot. It’s really on the upswing.” Fazio was no stranger to the town’s hospitality scene. He’s best known as the co-owner of Ten Sandwiches, a seasonal hot spot in Watch Hill, with his brother Paul, but he saw there was an opportunity for something different in the heart of downtown Westerly – a restaurant and bar that straddled the space between noteworthy eatery and neighborhood joint.
“I wanted it to be well rounded, a neighborhood restaurant but with an elevated atmosphere. You can come in with your buddies and have a beer or you could come in to celebrate an anniversary or birthday,” Fazio explains. Bird in Hand launched with a soft opening in early February, just enough time to get all the inner workings of a new restaurant in gear for the demands of the town’s swelling summertime population.
P hoto
by Jane Beiles Smith, courtesy of Bird in Hand
FOOD & DRINK
While some locals in popular coastal enclaves besmirch the onslaught of seasonal visitors, Fazio embraces travelers, bringing a perspective as both a local and someone who “summered” here. “I grew up in Westerly and moved to Connecticut with my family when I was around 12, but then we came back in the summers. I lived in Boston for a while but came back,” says Fazio. “I always loved Westerly and have now kind of made the full circle.”
Head chef Thom Lowe has been at the helm of Bird in Hand since the beginning and collaborated with Fazio in crafting a seasonally
driven dinner and Sunday brunch menu anchored by “French-inspired classics with a southern-creole flair.” Some starters include Curry Shrimp Cigars with Stonington shrimp and honey sambal sauce (an Indonesian chili sauce or paste), roasted oysters with garlic, bread crumbs, shellfish butter, and tasso, a spicy smoked ham with southern Louisiana origins used to flavor Cajun dishes. More nods to the region include the Gruyere and Black Pepper Beignets served with Creole mustard sauce, and New Orleans Style Po-boy with sea smoke remoulade and crispy duck breast.
Fazio spent his first year of college in New Orleans and it left a lasting impression, especially on his palate. “I just fell in love with the food culture down there. It’s a completely different cuisine that’s very, very specific to just that region,” he says. “There’s a lot of oysters and fresh shrimp, a lot of seafood. I think French and Creole cuisine works well with what’s available in Rhode Island and Southern New England.”
The restaurant also offers nightly specials with many dishes inspired by the local bounty of land and sea. “Like any restaurant, things evolve over time, too,” says Fazio, who says he
From wings to oysters, the Bird in Hand menu pleases all palates
P hoto
by Jane Beiles Smith, courtesy of Bird in Hand
Robert K. Dyer MD, MPH
Nancy Kate Staley PA-C
Vincent D. Criscione, MD Katie Sliney MSPAS, PA-C
Meighan Dingle Blanco, FNP-BC
Tori Jedson MSPAS, PA-C
Jennifer Johnson, APRN, NP-BC
Lauren Volpe MSPAS, PA-C
Bird in Hand’s sophisticated design is by Kailtin Smith Interiors, Westerly
and Lowe try out different dishes regularly to gauge customer interest. The brunch menu also leans into the restaurant’s New Orleans inspiration, offering beignets with chocolate and berry sauces, a Cajun Benedict, Smoked Pork Hash, and freshly made quiche of the day.
One of the best ways to get to know Bird in Hand’s diverse flavors while getting the best bang for your buck is by taking advantage of their early bird menu offered weekdays from 4-6pm. Blistered Shishito Peppers, Pulled Pork Sliders, Fried Oysters, and Grilled Flatbreads are some of the bites you can score for less than a pair of oat milk lattes in these parts.
And when it comes to libations, Bird in Hand excels. Their Nor’Easter, a house-made rum punch, is best sipped while enjoying the regular live music and stylish aesthetics –you might just think you’re on vacation.
Sourcing locally is important to Fazio and
Lowe, who get fresh-caught local seafood and shellfish through Sea Well Seafood based in nearby Stonington, Connecticut; oysters from Ninigret Nectars; and a good amount of produce, herbs, and microgreens from local farms.
As for the name, Bird in Hand, Fazio says it relates to “being grateful for what you have.”
When he initially wanted to open a second restaurant, he looked at spaces throughout the state, including Newport and Providence. “But then we ended up circling back to Westerly, where we’re from, so the name is about being thankful for what’s on your doorstep instead of searching around for different places. So that’s what we’re focused on: Westerly.”
Bird in Hand
12 Canal Street, Westerly 401-388-8449
P hoto by Jane Beiles Smith, courtesy of Bird in Hand
WATER PARK
WINE TASTINGS & EVENTS
Food Trends: Beyond a Shirley Temple
Where to find tasty mocktails for all palates
By Ken Abrams
Torie Gehlmeyer, proprietor of Tea for Torie, specializes in herbal-infused drinks she serves at private parties, events, and in-person and virtual classes. “I have a clinical herbalism background, and all my drinks are formulated to offer functional benefits or provide a buzz without the booze,” says Gehlmeyer, who notes there is a growing interest in drinks that deliver benefits like relaxation or enhanced energy. “People are looking for mocktails that are low in sugar and more refined than a traditional Shirley Temple. Simple choices like ginger beer and mint aren’t cutting it anymore.”
Gehlmeyer says mocktails are especially popular at baby and bridal showers and among health-conscious Gen Z consumers. “In the event space, I typically see a 60/40 ratio between drinkers and non-drinkers. Interestingly, many who consume alcohol also enjoy mocktails, so it’s not strictly a 40 percent sober demographic.” One summer favorite is the Watermelon Blush, “a fun and refreshing drink with aphrodisiac qualities, made from watermelon, mint, lime, and damiana. It has a flavor reminiscent of a watermelon Jolly Rancher, but without any added sugar.” TeaForTorie.com
Fruit-forward sips from a Westerly restaurant
Already celebrated for exciting cocktails and comfort food, Evie’s in Westerly is offering a delicious selection of seasonal mocktails for patrons of all ages this summer. “They are popular among older children and teenagers who may want something more than a Shirley Temple, as well as adults who might be making a personal choice not to drink alcohol but are still looking for a refreshing addition to their meal while out with friends,” says managing partner Heather Lavoie. Lavoie relays that the most popular mocktail at Evie’s is the Watermelon No-Jito, made with house-squeezed fresh watermelon, muddled mint, and limes. “We also offer a sparkling Blueberry Basil Lemonade, made with fresh blueberry puree, basil simple, lemonade, and Sprite, as well as the Ruby Refresher, with strawberry puree, grapefruit juice, honey chamomile syrup, club soda, and a floral salt rim made in the style of our Patio Paloma.” Lavoie says that interest in mocktails continues to grow, making up between 10-15 percent of bar sales at the restaurant. Westerly, EviesRI.com
EG’s destination for all-ages post-beach refreshments
Mocktails are not just a fad, but a sensation at Union and Main, a popular Main Street eatery. “A lot of people are hopping on the mocktail trend,” says bar manager Christina Paulo, who has noticed that more and more customers are ordering non-alcoholic drinks for a range of reasons. “People are always looking for something fun and different.”
On the new summer drink menu, the Siren’s Song is a popular choice. “We use a dragon fruit and elderberry refresher mix, which is made with green coffee extract and coconut water, and mix that up with some coconut puree, lime juice, and top it with soda water to create fun bubbles. It’s fruity, light, and refreshing, making it a perfect sipper for relaxing after the beach.” Other favorites include the Mango Rizz with pureed fruit and soda, and the Paradise Oasis, made with muddled cucumber, strawberry puree, white cranberry, mint simple, lemon, and soda. East Greenwich, UnionAndMainRI.com
P hoto by Jaclyn Altieri, courtesy of Tea For Torie
Plum Point
59 Riptide Drive, North Kingstown ~ $899,000. expansive views of Narragansett Bay's West Passage, the coastline of Jamestown, and beyond. Deeded water access, or you can enjoy the neighborhood beach, cabana, kayak rack, and float across the street for a small membersip fee. Primary bedroom addition and full basement. 3BD/1BA
Wickford Waterfront
28 Enfield Avenue, North Kingstown ~ $939,900. Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and boating out the back door of this waterfront home. Featuring an open layout with water views from the moment of entry. There is a first floor bedroom and an upstairs primary bedroom suite. The lower level, with private entry, has guest quarters with a kitchenette and full bathroom. 2BD/3BA
résumé to elyse@heyrhody.com
Audio / Video / Home Theater
SOUTH COUNTY SCENES SOUTH COUNTY
Summertime is ideal for fshing in West Greenwich
ABOUT RHONDA
@rhondagrace03
A mom living life forever passionate about noticing all the little things, from the trees dancing in a breeze and sounds of birds singing in the rain to the beautiful colors of a summer sky. It’s these moments that bring her a sense of gratitude, peace, and joy.
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For over 75 years, our commitment to freshness extends to the adjacent seafood section, conveniently located beside our expert butcher. Both departments pride themselves on providing high quality, expertly cut meats available on-demand for our valued customers.
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