This new outdoor space features a full bar, large covered dining area, multiple local RI brews on tap and plenty of large TV’s. Roll down weather proof sides allow enjoyment from May to November regardless of weather! LIVe MusIc on the weekends all summer long and all the sports games you want! This is a new twist on Gregg’s you really need to see!
and Cannolis!
ian festivals,” said Palmisano, who is a third-generation feast festival promoter and a well-known local philanthropist. Our family loves the area and has been a part of this community for years. When this space (for the restaurant) was available, it was like coming home again,” he continued.
The restaurant employs a dozen people and prides itself on serving dishes with a nod to the “Old Country.” Diners can feast on several signature dishes, including their bone-in veal chops that are so big that they take up the entire plate, their linguini and clams and their Italian stuffed artichokes. Patrons can also dive into their fresh fish dishes, chicken or veal parmigiana with pasta, or perhaps for dessert, their amazingly delicious homemade cannolis.
Perhaps their calling card is their "World Famous Expresso Martinis,” among other specialty cocktails that are infused with rosemary, ginger and other herbs to give them an authentic flair and taste.
Palmisano said that his goal for operating a successful restaurant is simple: “I want people to feel like they are eating at my house.”
He noted about how meals are cultivated back in Italy. “It starts with visiting the local butcher shop for the freshest meat, then walking to the garden to select the vegetables, and maybe to the local store to pick up a bottle of wine. Palmisano said that the restaurant strives to maintain this tradition because “farm to table” offers the best quality and flavors for their customers.
“I hope that when customers visit Anthony’s Italian Cuisine, they enjoy a little piece of Italy with every made-to-order dish,” he said.
The restaurant is open Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM, and Sunday from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The bar remains open one hour after closing.
They also cater events and have daily specials and promotions. For more details about these upcoming events, please call 401273-5900. More details may be found by visiting their website at www.AnthonysonFederalHill.com.
Stacie
ShopInRI 09
Flying This Summer?
Cut TSA Lines for Free
Southwest Airlines is unveiling what it says will be the biggest changes in its 53-year history.
TravelTips
The for the
• No more open seating; after an undisclosed date, assigned seats only
• Seats with extra legroom to be available next year, for a premium
Already dreading long security lines for your next flight? There’ve long been services that allow you to cut those lines, but you’ve got to open your wallet and do a good amount of prep work for them. Now, an option for those short on funds and time: the Reserve service by Clear, a free program that allows customers to book a spot ahead of time that sends them to the front of the line at TSA checkpoints.
• Red-eye flights (initially Las Vegas to Baltimore; Las Vegas to Orlando, Florida; Los Angeles to Baltimore; Los Angeles to Nashville, Tennessee; Phoenix to Baltimore) to begin in February
The Clear site explains how the process works: In advance of your flight (how long in advance depends on the airport), you’d simply log on to make a reservation for the time you’d like to pass through security. You’ll receive a QR code that, on the day of your flight, you’ll show to a staffer in the Reserve lane near the TSA checkpoint. The service isn’t available at every airport (there are about 20 in the US, Canada, and Europe currently listed) and even at those airports, the service may be limited to certain areas. A company rep said they’re working on adding more airports into the mix.
Travelers cited Southwest’s model of grabbing any available seat as the top reason for choosing to fly with a competitor, and 80% of Southwest fliers said they preferred an assigned seat. “Preferences have evolved with more customers taking longer flights where a seat assignment is preferred,” Southwest said Thursday, per USA Today. With the change, the lowcost airline said it “expects to broaden its appeal and attract more flying from its current and future customers.”
Reserve customers must still remove their shoes and jackets and take their electronics out for screening. Clear also offers a paid service called Clear Plus, which for the price of $189 per year allows users to not only skip to the front of the line, but also to not have to show ID; instead, your eyes or fingerprints are scanned. TSA PreCheck also offers a paid service ($78 for five years) that, because you’ve gone through advance vetting, means you don’t have to remove your shoes, jacket, laptop, or other items. Reserve remains an option for those who don’t want to pay. “Travelers can now save even more time by seamlessly reserving their spot in the security line,” a Clear rep said in a statement.
The FAA still needs to approve new cabin layouts for the airline’s fleet of Boeing 737s, which will extend legroom for a third of its seats. This is “in line with that offered by industry peers on narrowbody aircraft,” Southwest said. The change means the airline can charge more for some tickets. Southwest, once the most profitable US airline, reported a 51% drop in profit in the second quarter, down to $370 million, after losses in the last two quarters. The airline said it would provide more details about the changes at the end of September. As of now, there’s no sign of change to some of Southwest’s most beloved policies, including two free checked bags and no flight change fees.
Shop In RI Selects: The Taste of Maine Restaurant in Woolwich, Maine for having the world’s largest lobster roll.
Shop In RI Selects Sugarbush Resort, Vermont as their #1 Skiing Getaway on the East Coast!
Shop In RI Selects: Block Island as their top local getaway destination.
There are a few food items that are synonymous with Maine, one of them being the ever-so-delicious lobster roll. Tourists have been flocking to every corner of the Pine Tree state for decades to devour the delicacy. However, not all lobster rolls are built the same. Often, the biggest complaint people have about a lobster is...not enough lobster. So, the Taste of Maine restaurant in Woolwich decided to solve that problem once and for all. Shared on Facebook by Taste of Maine restaurant, they claim to be serving the world’s largest lobster roll, a monster sub at least three times the size of a typical lobster roll. The number one question in comments seems to be about the price. Given current market conditions for lobster, the daily market price for the ’world’s largest lobster roll’ has been between $150 and $170. Some will scoff at the price, but if you’re traveling from afar just to get your hands on a Maine lobster roll, why not try the largest one?
Traveling to Block Island, RI, offers a charming escape into a quintessential New England experience. With its pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque landscapes, Block Island provides a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The island is renowned for its natural beauty, including the iconic Mohegan Bluffs and lush, rolling countryside, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Additionally, the quaint, historic town offers a welcoming atmosphere with its boutique shops, local eateries, and vibrant community events. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a blend of both, Block Island’s unique character and tranquil environment make it a must-visit destination.
Sugarbush is an overlooked gem among its peers, with many skiers heading to nearby Killington, Stowe, or Mad River Glen over this double mountain resort. So why shouldn’t you do the same? To put it simply, Sugarbush offers practically everything that those more popular ski areas boast, minus the crowds. So if you fancy schussing down a freshly groomed slope without queuing for a lift or dodging snowploughers this could be just the place for you!
Fourth of July Airfare Down
Another Cruise Behemoth Is Launching
By 27% From Last Year
Travelers who plan to fly over the Fourth of July holiday weekend can expect to pay less for their domestic tickets this year, as round trip tickets will be 27% lower this year than they were at the same time in 2022.
A round-trip ticket this year will cost a traveler a little more than $300, which is over $100 cheaper than last year. The prices of round-trip tickets are in line with how much round-trip tickets cost in 2019, according to an analysis by Hopper.
Terrain: The resort is made up of two interconnected mountains, Lincoln Peak, where the majority of trails are, and Mount Ellen. Other lower peaks include Castle Rock, Gadd Peak and North Lynx. For the type of gnarly terrain you would expect from Mad River Glen, just hop aboard the Castle Rock Double chair to Castle Rock. From the top at 3,812 ft, you’ll have the steep double black chutes of Lift Line and Rumble to get stuck into. If clocking up maximum vertical drop is more your thing then you’ll find the slopes here laid out much better for top-to-bottom shredding than at Killington. Even if you ski all 111 trails here, there’s also 2,000 ac of backcountry to explore in the Slide Brook Basin area!
Cruise ship aficionados have another giant to explore. Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas has arrived in Port Canaveral, Florida, ahead of its first voyage with paying customers on Friday, reports WTSP. Utopia, with a 236,680 gross tonnage, is second only to the Icon of the Seas (248,663) in size, per the Orlando Sentinel. The latter also is a Royal Caribbean ship. Some other details:
• Utopia is 1,118 feet long and can carry 5,668 passengers on its 18 decks.
• It has 21 restaurants, five pools, two casinos, and, of course, an ice rink, per Axios.
This year, the most booked destination in the United States over the Fourth of July weekend, which is from June 30 through July 4, is Las Vegas. The domestic cities that follow include
4 Shop In RI
• The ship is for now mainly offering long weekend getaways to passengers— three and four-day trips to Caribbean islands.
A person three miles or obtain able cold, tions like South the physical than same down
Woman United
Atlanta, New Orleans, Chicago, and New York City.
June 29 and June 30 are expected to be the busiest days of the holiday weekend, with 3.7 million people expected to depart from U.S. airports on both days. The least busy day of the long weekend will be on the Fourth of July itself. A total of 3.5 million people are expected to depart from airports on July 5.
Town: If all that wasn’t enough, Sugarbush is generally a notch cheaper than pricey Stowe, but not at the sacrifice of luxury. For lavish lodgings, look no further than Lincoln Peak Village. For these reasons and more, when it comes to the most practical ski destina tion in Vermont, Sugarbush is a fantasic choice for a winter weekend getaway!
• Green concerns: The Utopia runs on liquified natural gas (LNG), one of only six cruise ships in North America to do so, per a separate story in the Orlando Sentinel. While LNG burns cleaner than typical fuel, the industry still has a long way to go to meet goals of reducing its carbon footprint. In fact, the leaders of rival cruise lines Royal Caribbean, Disney, Carnival, and MSC Cruises recently got together—on the new ship—to strategize about new standards.
The busiest airport in the country is expected to be Atlanta’s, where over 1.8 million travelers are expected to pass through. Other airports which will be exceedingly busy include Dallas (DFW), Denver (DEN), Los Angeles (LAX), and Las Vegas (LAS).
You can’t a domestic get a man went a ”stinging dropped the floor, snag ”After on flight lanta ponded MedLink provided said. local customer Feel off those chanics neering non-stop It’s a L’Agulhas, sia—roughly Appalachian encountered via bridge, boat
For travelers who are driving instead of flying, car rental prices are also down considerably from last year at 25%. On average, car rentals this year will set back travelers $47 per day.
There’s a Fresh Geyser Mystery in Yellowstone
She
The Internet as We Know It Depends on 22 Ships
Became a Bride and a Widow
Within Minutes
It’s unclear why the Steamboat Geyser had a record year
Iron Man, aka Tony Stark, is an iconic character within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, memorably played by Robert Downey Jr. But Iron Man, of course, was killed off in 2019 in Avengers: Endgame. So how is it that RDJ announced at San Diego’s Comic-Con that he’d be returning to the MCU? No, Stark isn’t being resurrected—Downey is playing Doctor Doom (aka Victor Von Doom) in Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars, planned for 2026 and 2027, respectively, per USA Today. As NBC News explains, this is all part of the major pivot the MCU made after dropping Jonathan Majors in the wake of his domestic violence conviction— Majors’ Kang the Conqueror was supposed to be the next “big bad” the Avengers faced, but instead, it will be Doom.
Johnnie Mae had suffered two recent losses, including that of her father, when she stood in front of friends and family and committed to the love of her life on Monday. But within the hour, her groom was dead, too. As Mae and new husband Toraze Davis of Omaha, Nebraska, left the church where they said “I do,” Davis suffered a blood clot that made his heart stop. “It happened within seconds ... just after the ceremony had begun,” friend Jewel Roberson said. Family and friends are now rallying behind Mae, director of ECO Supportive Living, which assists the elderly and those with disabilities. “Johnnie Mae has suffered through so much,” says Roberson. Now “she’s been widowed and married in a 10-minute span.”
It’s the tallest active geyser on the planet— with an emphasis on “active.” From 2015 to 2017, it didn’t erupt at all. There was another largely quiet period from 1911 to 1961, but in 2018 it logged a record-setting 32 eruptions, a feat it has crushed this year with 47 eruptions, per the US Geological Survey. Why? Good question, and one that hasn’t been answered. It’s one on a long list of geyser mysteries, in fact. The geyser-research field is a thin one, and as Yellowstone National Park’s hydrologist explained the area beneath Steamboat hasn’t been mapped. However, seismic sensors there have revealed that the geyser’s water source may sit as deep as 130 feet.
How could this work? As Entertainment Weekly theorizes, “Since Secret Wars is a multiverse story, that raises the distinct possibility that Downey’s Doom may by a multiversal variant of Tony Stark.” USA Today offers the same theory, but notes it’s also possible that the whole “same-actor-playing-two-differentcharacters” thing will turn out to be a moot point: “If Doom is always hidden behind his mask, Downey could also be disguised to the point that it isn’t obvious that it’s even him.” At Forbes, Paul Tassi says he hopes it’s the latter.
Who is Doctor Doom? IGN delves into the Marvel Comics’ villain’s backstory here.
“It’s seriously the saddest thing ever,” Tricia Pugsley said. She was supposed to DJ the couple’s wedding reception, but “they went to the hospital instead.” That’s where Mae “had to say goodbye to her new husband.”
What do the fans think? Some are quite excited, judging from the reaction of the Comic-Con audience and the memes proliferating online. Others, however, decried it as a “desperate” move to get fans invested in the MCU again, the Independent reports.
A GoFundMe page has raised more than $20,000 for Mae and the children the couple shared. Mae “always helps others; this is our time to help her,” the page reads. Some are finding solace in knowing that 48-year-old Davis died on what was evidently “the happiest day of his life,” a friend said. Another friend says she hopes the tragedy will teach others to care for themselves, including through annual
What do other MCU stars think?
Gwyneth Paltrow is confused, Mark Ruffalo is excited—People looks at a few reactions here.
Another Comic-Con surprise: Harrison Ford was revealed to be stepping into an important role in the MCU, one that involves him turning into Red Hulk.
Most other geysers seem to be fueled by shallower reserves; deeper equals warmer, so that could be a factor in Steamboat’s ability to propel water to heights of more than 300 feet. Michael Poland with the USGS earlier this year said it’s possible that increased snowfall in Yellowstone of late has led to more groundwater to fuel the geyser. What scientists are saying is that there’s no link between the increased activity and any potential looming eruption of Yellowstone’s supervolcano. “Yellowstone has an incredible geyser system that is unrelated to magmatic activity—other than the magmatic system basically providing heat,” tweeted one volcanologist. USA Today noted that the Waimangu Geyser in New Zealand has managed to shoot water taller than Steamboat has, but it’s been
Top 4 Most visited US National Parks
Top 4 Red Sox Center Fielders of All Time
THE TOP EARNING MUSICIANS OF THE DECADE
Lynn
Dom DiMaggio
Shipwreck Hunters Make Big Find in Lake Michigan
Real Life Happy
Gilmore Hears
From
Adam Sandler
Shipwreck hunters in the Great Lakes have made another big find: the Margaret A. Muir schooner, which sank in Lake Michigan during a storm 131 years ago. The Wisconsin Underwater Archeology Association says a team of maritime historians searching for the Muir found the 130foot schooner in around 50 feet of water a few miles from the entrance to Algoma Harbor, where it had lain “undetected for over a century, despite hundreds of fishing boats passing over each season.” The team used historical records and highresolution sonar in the search.
on Sept. 30, 1893. According to the WUAA, it sank moments after the captain gave the order to abandon ship.
Thanks to the “expert seamanship” of David Clow, the 71-year-old captain, the ship’s lifeboat made it “through the giant breakers and onto the beach where the freezing and soaked crew of six were spotted by the townsfolk.”
The Muir, carrying a cargo of salt from Bay City, Michigan, to South Chicago, Illinois, sank during a gale
For the record, his given name is Landon Gilmore. But the teenage Indiana golfer has been going by ”Happy Gilmore” since he was a little kid because he can hit the ball like the fictional player of that name in Adam Sandler’s 1996 movie, per the Indianapolis Star. Now, the two have connected in real life. After Gilmore announced his commitment to golf for Ball State University, Sandler took note on Twitter. ”Go get em Happy,” Sandler wrote. ”Pulling for you.” Replied
and, yes, he enters tournaments under the moniker of Happy Gilmore. One key difference between reality and art: Gilmore doesn’t play hockey and can’t even skate. He has, however, mastered the unique hockey-style tee shot used by Sandler in the movie. ”It never fails,” he says of fellow junior circuit
Fred
Johnny Damon
Reggie Smith
Zion National Park, UT Yellowstone National Park, MT
Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, NC & TN
Woman Swept to Sea Rescued 37 Hours Later, 50 Miles Away
World News News
T. Rex Skeleton Sold at Auction for $6.2M
A Chinese woman who was swept out to sea while swimming at a Japanese beach was rescued 37 hours later after drifting in a swimming ring more than 50 miles in the Pacific Ocean, officials said. Japan’s coast guard launched a search for the woman, identified only as a Chinese national in her 20s, after receiving a call from her friend saying she had disappeared while swimming at Shimoda, about 125 miles southwest of Tokyo. She was spotted by a cargo ship about 36 hours after she disappeared, off the southern tip of Boso Peninsula.
Meet the New Electric Road
15 Years Later, Tsunami’s Toll Remains Mind-Boggling
If I Lived in Colombia, I Would Be Worried He Went In With Metal Detector, Came Out With
heirs can’t quit squabbling. Here’s a look at where things nearly two years since Prince died, the executor of the Trust, can’t split the money among Prince’s six surviving Revenue Service and executor agree on the estate’s value
might happen. The IRS and state of Minnesota are entitled the estate can stretch out the payments over time. Court Prince’s death suggested that it was worth around $200 actual value remains one of the biggest secrets in the case, redacted documents. The actual valuation could have gone up because the various attorneys, accountants, and industry yet finished appraisals and deals for the use of his music, his Paisley Park studio.
A 67-million-year-old Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton might have had puny arms, but sold for a hefty $6.2 million at Zurich’s Koller auction house. The 38-foot-long and nearly 13-foot-tall fossil “is one of the most spectacular T. rex skeletons in existence,” though it’s actually not made up of just one T. rex. It’s named “293 Trinity” for a reason: The skeleton is comprised of 293 bones hailing from 3 different T. rexes found in Montana and Wyoming. Still, in an interview on Koller’s website, Dr. Hans-Jacob Siber of the Aathal Dinosaur Museum said that there are just “20 or 30 good T. rex skeletons in the world and this is one of the bigger and better ones.”
The cargo ship asked a passing LPG tanker, the Kakuwa Maru No. 8, to help. Two of its crew members jumped into the sea and rescued the woman, officials said. She was airlifted by a coast guard helicopter to land, they said. The woman was slightly dehydrated but was in good health and walked away after being examined at a nearby hospital, the officials said. The coast guard said she had drifted more than 50 miles and was lucky to have survived despite the dangers of heat stroke under the sun, hypothermia at night, or being hit by a ship in the dark.
Ethiopia Planted 353M Trees —in Half a Day
12 Year Old Steals Moms Credit Card.. Heads on Vacation
Egypt opened two of its oldest pyramids, located about 25 miles south of the capital Cairo, to visitors for the first time since 1965. Antiquities Minister Khaled el-Anany told reporters that tourists are now allowed to visit the Bent Pyramid and its satellite pyramid in the Dahshur royal necropolis, which is part of the Memphis Necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Bent Pyramid, which the AP reports was built during the Old Kingdom of the Pharaoh of Sneferu, in about 2600 BC, is unique in that it has two internal structures. El-Anany said the Bent Pyramid represents a transitional form of pyramid construction between the Djoser Step Pyramid (2667-2648 BC) and the Meidum Pyramid (also about 2600 BC). The Guardian notes its "unusual" shape: The first 160 feet rise at "a steep 54 degree angle, before tapering off towards the top."
sentative contacted school officials Thursday about the surprise message, says a spokeswoman for the district.
It still haunts me.” The line from 28-year-old Thai resident Suwanne Maliwan to Reuters expresses a common sentiment Thursday, the 15th anniversary of the Indian Ocean tsunami that claimed 230,000 lives. Maliwan, for instance, lost both her parents and five other relatives. ”Sometimes I dream that a wave is coming,” she says. Vigils and memorials across Asia were commemorating the staggering loss of life in what was one of the world’s deadliest natural disasters. A 9.1 magnitude earthquake off Sumatra island the morning after Christmas in 2004 triggered the tsunami and unleashed waves as high as 57 feet.
You may one day drive down roads charged with electricity that your vehicle automatically detects and sucks up through an automatic arm—if a Swedish project gains any headway. Called eRoadArlanda, it has turned 1.2 miles of road outside Stockholm into a kind of slot-car track where electric trucks insert movable arms into a rail to recharge the vehicle’s battery while driving. Designers say the technology is weather-proof and the arm will rise automatically when one car passes another, Sky News reports. The rails are also said to be safe to the touch.
A man exploring with a metal detector hit the jackpot, uncovering what a veteran gold prospector calls a “oncein-a-lifetime find.” The amateur gold digger, who is remaining anonymous, was searching the goldfields of Australia’s Victoria state, site of an 1850s gold rush, when he stumbled upon a 10-pound rock dotted with gold. He then showed up at Darren Kamp’s prospecting store in Geelong. “He pulled this rock out and as he dropped it into my hand he said, ‘Do you think there’s $10,000 (AUD) worth in it?’” Kamp of Lucky Strike Gold tells the BBC. “I looked at him and said, Try $100,000.” It was now Kamp’s turn to be gobsmacked. “He said, ‘But that’s only half the rock,’” the prospector tells the Guardian.
“One of the most important issues of our time is the question of how to make fossil-free road transportation a reality,” says eRoadArlanda Chairman Hans Säll. “We now have a solution that will make this possible, which is amazing.” Among its pluses, Säll says the electric road lets vehicles have smaller batteries and therefore makes vehicles cheaper to produce. The $7.7 million project will be tested with a truck fleet for two years, and if the government approves, it could be implemented for $1.9 million per mile and include buses and cars. “Sweden is at the cutting edge of this technology, which we now hope to introduce in other areas of the country and the world,” Säll says.
Though the dinosaur was purchased by a private buyer, Koller indicated hope that it would be put on public display. Speaking to the BBC, Edinburgh University dinosaur expert Steve Brusatte expressed concern over private purchases—this was the first T. rex skeleton ever auctioned in Europe—saying in part that “museums can’t compete with the deep pockets of the oligarchs and the super-rich.”
Johnson said he admires Kelzenberg's courage but that he won't be able to attend prom because he'll be in Hawaii filming Jungle Cruise. Instead, Johnson rented out a nearby movie theater on Saturday for Kelzenberg and more than 230 friends and family to watch his latest movie, Rampage. Johnson even covered the cost of snacks and drinks for the theater. "I couldn't believe it. I was so surprised," Kelzenberg says. "I just kept thinking, 'He saw me! He knows who I am!'" Kelzenberg says she became a fan of Johnson's five years ago. Her favorite movies of his include Central Intelligence and Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle.
Killer Whales Sink Another Yacht
Yet again, the orcas have come for a yacht. This time it was a vessel traversing the Strait of Gibraltar, carrying British yachtsman Robert Powell, 59. Powell was celebrating his birthday aboard the boat, and the attack came less than a day into what was supposed to be a 10-day trip. Recent thinking on the phenomenon of killer whales sinking boats indicates it may be a game for the animals, but Powell says, “To me, they were not playing at all, they knew exactly what they were doing. They knew the weak points of the boat, and they knew how to sink it.” The Bonhomie William was two miles off the coast of Spain when the whales started attacking. It took two hours for help to arrive, during which time the pod of five orcas circled and rammed the 39-foot vessel. An hour and a half in, the hull buckled and split, and water rushed into the yacht’s main living area. The vessel went completely under just minutes after a Spanish salvage vessel arrived and the crew helped those on board the Bonhomie William to abandon ship. owell and the crew are all safe reports said.
In Colombia’s fabled fight against Pablo Escobar’s hippos, it seems safe to say the hippos are winning. For now. Writing at Smithsonian, Joshua Hammer lays out the numbers: Maybe four were left behind when authorities shot the drug lord dead in 1993 and took over his property—including his menagerie of exotic animals— outside the town of Doradal. Today, nobody is quite sure how many roam near the rivers of the Magdalena Basin, but the official government count is about 170, and that seems conservative. Biologists estimate the population will reach 1,400 by 2040 if left unchecked. Accounts of run-ins with humans are percolating with more regularity in local media accounts, and that’s not the only issue. “If I lived in Colombia, I would be worried,” Rebecca Lewison, an ecologist at San Diego State University’s Coastal and Marine Institute said.
Coastal areas of Thailand, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, and other countries were deluged. One of the first areas hit was Indonesia’s Aceh province, notes CBS News. In fact, most of those killed were in Indonesia alone, where 170,000 deaths were registered. ”No words can describe our feelings when we tearfully saw thousands of corpses lying on this ground 15 years ago,” said acting Aceh Gov. Nova Iriansyah at a ceremony in Sigli. ”And now, we can see how people in Aceh were able to overcome suffering and rise again, thanks to assistance from all Indonesians and from people all over the world.”
Brusatte added that he’s worried “that these very rare dinosaur skeletons, which are scientifically very valuable and are important for education and public engagement disappear into the vaults of private collectors which means that they are not available for public display.”
El-Anany also announced that Egyptian archaeologists have uncovered a collection of stone, clay, and wooden sarcophagi, some of them with mummies, in the area. He said archaeologists also found wooden funerary masks along with instruments used for cutting stones, dating to the Late Period (664332 BC). Mostafa Waziri, secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, said they also uncovered large stone blocks along with limestone and granite fragments indicating the existence of ancient graves in the area. Egypt has been whipping up publicity for its new historical discoveries in the hopes of reviving a devastated tourism sector still recovering from the turmoil following a 2011 uprising that toppled longtime autocrat Hosni Mubarak. Egypt Opens “Bent Pyramid”
A 12-year-old Australian boy has pulled off a bold feat that drew international headlines: He stole his mom’s credit card and managed to fly to Bali, Indonesia, for a posh, four-day vacation before getting caught. As recounted in the Australian program A Current Affair, the boy did some research online and figured out he could fly alone without needing a letter from a parent on Jetstar Airways. He nabbed his mom’s credit card, tricked his grandmother into giving him his passport, took a train to the airport, and flew to Bali. “They just asked for my student ID and passport to prove that I’m over 12 and that I’m in secondary school,” says the boy, identified only as Drew. He then checked into a four-star hotel, having made reservations in advance, telling the clerk that his older sister would be joining him soon.
As Kamp tells CNN, the amateur digger had broken apart the full nugget,
Ethiopia claims it has smashed record in the name of climate change— and the tree planting isn’t even More than 353 million tree gs were planted across the country just 12 hours as part of Prime Abiy Ahmed’s Green Legacy tation campaign. The campaign to see 4 billion indigenous trees ed between May and October. had been encouraged to plant lion trees but Ahmed tweeted million had been planted after hours. At the end of 12 hours, the country’s minster for innovation chnology, Getahun Mekuria, announced 353,633,660 seedlings had the ground—more than five times as many trees as were planted in 12 hours in 2017. Some schools and government offices closed to dents and civil servants to take part, which notes 2.6 billion trees been planted across Ethiopia. The Guardian reports each citizen plant at least 40 seedlings. The goal is to transform Ethiopia’s landscape, is seeing degradation, soil erosion, deforestation, and droughts and tied to agriculture. About 80% of Ethiopia’s population relies on to make a living, with the result that just 4% of land is now forested, pared to 30% at the end of the 19th century, according to Farm Al Jazeera, a recent study estimates that 1 trillion new trees could most 750 billion tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere—or much as humans have released in the last 25 years—over several
hoping to find gold inside, not realizing dirt was concealing the gold “oozing out of the rock everywhere.” Altogether, the man had found a 10.1-pound nugget containing 5.7 pounds of gold. “I haven’t seen a specimen in this amount of gold in my 43 years of prospecting,” Kamp said.
France is trying to hang onto a medieval painting with a cra zy backstory. The nation has blocked the export of a small, 13th-century work by the Ita lian artist Cimabue, a painting that hung unnoticed for deca des above a hotplate in a Fren ch woman's kitchen. An auc tioneer spotted the painting as the elderly woman was preparing to sell her house, and then sold for a staggering $26 million at auction earlier the Guardian. The buyers are anonymous, but they're group of Chilean collectors based in the US. Now, however, they won't be able to own the painting after all.
And there he stayed, having a fine time while his panicked mom reported him as missing back home. It wasn’t until the boy posted a video of himself in the hotel pool that his vacation finally came to an end. “I was shocked and disgusted, there’s no emotion to feel what we felt when we found out that he’d left overseas,” says mom, per news.com.au. One reason she’s ticked: Her son had actually tried this stunt twice before, only to be turned away at the airport by Qantas and Garuda Airlines. Mom says she was informed her son’s passport would be flagged by federal authorities as a result, but that apparently never happened. In the aftermath, Jetstar promises to tighten up its policies. “He just doesn’t like the word no and that’s what I got, a kid in Indonesia.”
“Colombia has great biodiversity, and this is not a system that has evolved to support a mega-herbivore,” adds Lewison. Related fun hippo facts on that front: A single hippo generates about 20 pounds of feces per day, and a female can give birth 25 times over her lifespan of 40 to 50 years. The government has tried culling the animals, but the public objected, and it has dabbled in capturing them and shipping them out. All the while, the numbers have kept growing. The latest tactic is to castrate them in the wild, and Hammer provides a first-hand account. One such procedure on a 1,500-pounder is successful but, not surprisingly, a taxing and time-consuming feat. Thus, two biologists tell Hammer that a mass culling may be the only effective way to rein in the population.
“Maybe in the 1850s there was probably a few found, but in today’s terms it’s very rare.” He estimated the value at $160,000. “He said to me, ‘Oh, the wife will be happy,’” adds the prospector, who ended up buying the rock. The finder had been using a budget metal detector capable of locating items buried only a foot underground, which turned out to be well worth the $800 cost.
Art Expert Gives Museum Some Really Bad News
France's culture ministry has declared the work to be a and has at least temporarily overruled the sale, reports ministry hopes to hang the painting permanently in now has 30 months to come up with the money to buy me, the family of the unidentified woman who displayed years, unaware of its origin or its worth, must continue insured. They also owe a multi-million-dollar inheritance likely have to work out a deal to pay it after the sale goes
A museum in southern France suffered a terrible blow when experts declared that over half its paintings are forgeries, The Terrus museum, dedicated to the work of painter Étienne Terrus, apparently knew nothing of the fakes until an art historian informed them. “It’s a catastrophe,” the mayor of Elne, where the museum resides, tells the Telegraph. “I put myself in the place of all the people who came to visit the museum, who saw fake works of art, who paid an entrance fee. It’s intolerable and I hope we find those responsible.” Police have taken the fakes and are trying to find those responsible.
US Teen Wins $3M at Fortnite World Cup
Someone Spent $25.3M for A ’Highly Important’ Bowl
Drug Kingpin Eluded Cops as a So-So Soccer Player
Multimillionaire Invites 10
People to Come Live in ’Paradise’
The Tyrannosaurus rex, which has one of the most distinctive skulls in the animal kingdom, is among the most iconic dinosaurs in pop culture. As an American Museum of Natural History information page notes, the 1902 discovery of the first T. rex skeleton in Hell Creek, Montana, also sparked long-lasting interest in dinosaurs in general. Trinity, however, isn’t the most expensive T. rex ever sold. In 2022 the Guardian reported that honor
Looking to permanently while away your days overlooking the Tasman Sea and sipping on vino while watching "nice animals" with other "nice people"? Karl Reipen wants to hear from you. The Guardian reports the German multimillionaire has placed an ad seeking 10 people up to age 70 to come live in what he calls his "paradise," a 550-acre, $5.6 million estate in Awakino, on New Zealand's North Island. "If you are interested to live a life with a Group of Interesting people it can be a new life for you," reads the ad, which Stuff NZ reports was published twice in the New Zealand Herald. Reipen,
Pennsylvania 16-year-old Kyle Giersdorf plays 8 to 10 hours of Fortnite a day, but his parents aren’t complaining: Giersdorf, better known as ”Bugha,” won a record-breaking $3 million at the inaugural Fortnite World Cup at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York. The contest featured 100 participants out of around 40 million who entered the online competition. Giersdorf, who won the solo event in front of a packed stadium, says he plans to save the prize instead of going on a spending spree. ”All I want is a new desk and maybe a desk for my trophy. In the duo event
teen contestants Emil Bergquist dersen from Sweden and David from Austria shared a $3 million
who made his fortune in canned iced coffee, notes in the ad that the estate boasts a winery "for social meetings and dining," and that residents "can enjoy walking, fishing, shopping, kayaking, bird watching, swimming or looking at the nice animals."
The bowl is pretty and small, and also represents the “peak of painting on porcelain.” The Chinese antique went for $25.3 million at an auction with an unknown entity scooping up the ”highly important” artifact crafted sometime in the mid-18th century, per CNN.
Drug kingpins, have been known to bankroll local soccer teams in Latin America, writes Kevin Sieff in the Washington Post. It’s a smart move in a few ways: Not only is soccer the “bedrock of power and politics,” it’s also an easy way to launder money. Sieff’s remarkable two-part series, however, focuses on a drug kingpin who went one better: He not only bought or sponsored professional teams, he inserted himself into the lineup as a player. Meet Sebastian Marset, a 33-year-old Uruguayan who in recent years has become one of the top traffickers in South America and a key supplier of cocaine to the West, writes Sieff. But then comes the kicker: “Instead of hiding from authorities, he had used his fortune to purchase and sponsor soccer teams across Latin America and in Europe.”
“The superb painting of two loving swallows beside a flowering apricot tree intertwined with a willow tree is complemented by a short poem evocative of the spring,” reads the description of the bowl, sold on the Sotheby’s site.
Apparently 82 of the museum’s 140 works are phony, spotted at times because they contained buildings constructed after Terrus died in 1922. Acclaimed for his landscapes of French Catalonia, Terrus was close with artists Aristide Maillol and Henri Matisse and lived mostly in Elne, a town on the Tech River that’s less than three miles from the Mediterranean coast of Languedoc-Roussillon. The museum spent over $190,000 acquiring paintings they thought were his. But the Terrus likely isn’t alone: Art experts say at least one in five paintings in the world’s top museums may well be fake.
of the Yongzheng Emperor, who ruled over China from 1722 to 1735, is an example of falangcai (“foreign colors”) ceramics, “among the rarest and most celebrated imperial ceramic wares of the Qing dynasty.” The porcelain pieces from this group were fired in the kilns of the city of Jingdezhen, then brought to the imperial workshops within Beijing’s Forbidden City. The emperor himself would greenlight the design, and then painters would finish the enamel job, before the pieces were fired a second time for completion.
There are also stables and an indoor equestrian center on-site, and Reipen says, "If you would like to bring your own horse it is possible." Interested parties who prefer privacy will like that the property is an hour and a half from the nearest large town or city. The current government under Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern put in place a ban on foreigners owning homes in New Zealand, but Reipen scooped up
With a total prize pool of $40 provided by Epic Games, Fortnite’s rent company, the tournament e-sports record, though that record cted to be broken by an August led “The International” Giersdorf, player in the North American East to qualify for the tournament, was nant in the six-game series, beating including runner-up Harrison Chang, who took home $1.8 Giersdorf was hugged by his family the win. “This is life-changing mother Darcy Giersdorf says. “He’s playing video games since he was this is his passion. He told us he this, he put his mind to it and he
The story details how Marset would assume an alias and play for his various teams. He would pay $10,000 to wear the No. 10 of Pele, Maradona, and Messi, or hand out wads of cash to teammates as bonuses for victories. Maybe the best part is that Marset isn’t a great player—he’s “mediocre,” writes Sieff, “with the skills of someone whose career peaked in high school.” In fact, the story begins with Marset missing a crucial spot kick for Paraguay’s Deportivo Capiata team in 2021. His playing days with that particular team ended in typical fashion: Marset, apparently tipped off that authorities were on to him, fled before they could make an arrest. If this hiding-in-plain-sight strategy seems far-fetched, know that Marset remains at large to this day.
the property years te. He still had to get nation's Overseas which signed off on it determined he had and means to build and maintain it. "It to bring it to the standard writes in the ad. It's ture dwellers in Reipen's med utopia will be
This particular bowl changed hands multiple times over the years, most recently landing in the possession of collector Alice Cheng, who scooped it up in 2006 for $19.3 million. The sale was just one of many in the auction house’s Hong Kong spring block, whose art sales saw nearly $210 million collected. Nicolas Chow, chair of Sotheby’s Asia division, called this week’s auctions “exceptional”
There Is Nothing “Corny” About Little Rhody’s Summer Sweet Ears of Corn on the Cob
by Julia Romano
Picture this: You’re seated at a table surrounded by family and friends at a summer gathering. There’s chatter all around you and the air is filled with smells that can only come from a chock full, heated grill. As you set down your plate, your mouth instantly starts to “water“ at the sight of a bright yellow, crisp ear of sweet corn on the cob rolling back and forth. Then, you take your first bite into this perfect and juicy specimen, and you feel an instant tingle on your tongue, as its taste buds start twirling, then whirling, then joyfully dancing.
Locally grown, sweet corn on the cob is a summertime favorite that evokes these scrumptious culinary experiences, along with memories of Rhode Island sunny days, backyard barbecues, family gatherings, and everything involving a perfect summer feast.
Finding the perfect balance of tenderness, sweetness, and just the right amount of char is the first step in achieving that desired outcome, and with a few simple tips, you’ll be able to serve up delectable, sweet corn on the cob on every try.
Selecting the best ears of corn is most certainly a must for that superb pick. Seeking ears that have bright green, tightly fitting husks, with golden brown silk is most important, and a great indicator of a delicious cob. The kernels protected by the husks and silk should be visibly plump and fit together in tight rows, reaching right up to the tip of the ear. Freshness of the cob is key, so it’s sensible to purchase your corn on the day you plan to cook it.
Like other foods, there are several ways to cook corn on the cob. Once you’ve skillfully chosen your corn, peel off the back of the husks, gently, but without removing them entirely, and then remove the silk. After removing the silk, pull the husks back up around the corn. Soaking the corn in husk in water for about 10 to 15 minutes before cooking is a good idea, as it helps prevent the husks from burning and steams the corn to perfection.
What’s Up With That?
In 2015, a man named Bud Weiser was arrested for trespassing at a Budweiser brewery. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
Blue-eyed people tend to have a higher alcohol tolerance than those with darker eyes. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
In the Netherlands, employees can be absent for up to two years while receiving 70% of their salary as sick pay.
WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
When Joseph Stalin was dying, his private physician was unavailable because he was already being tortured for suggesting the Soviet leader needed more bed rest. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
Hawaiian pizza was invented in Canada by a man from Greece.
WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
Italians eat so much bread and pasta, the government will give gluten-intolerant citizens a stipend of up to 140 euro per month to buy gluten-free food. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
The richest 1% owns more than 43% of the world’s wealth.
WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
Depression can cause you to dream up to 3-4 times more than you normally would. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
There are over 250,000 lakes in Ontario, Canada, which contain about one-fifth of the world’s fresh water.
WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
Younger siblings tend to think they’re funnier than their older siblings. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
Loneliness and social isolation can be as damaging to your health as smoking fifteen cigarettes a day. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
The gangster scene Kevin McCallister watches in ‘Home Alone’ is from a fake movie named ‘Angels with Filthy Souls’. It was actually shot by the crew of ‘Home Alone’. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
It’s estimated that more than 50% of the world’s population can speak at least two languages. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
‘Space Jam’ was the highest-grossing basketball movie of all time. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
Bonding with dogs causes your brain to release dopamine and oxytocin in the same way as loving a child.
WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
The residents of Churchill, Manitoba, often leave their car doors unlocked in case anyone needs to take shelter from a polar bear. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
Drinking wild blueberry juice can improve your memory. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
Smaller hermit crabs form gangs to steal shells from larger hermit crabs, WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
A person’s IQ can decrease by 13% when they’re stressed, according to researchers from Georgetown University. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
Doodling during a boring meeting can keep you from zoning out and improve your memory recall by 30%.
WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
Notes from the Cooker, Traveler, Master Gardener and Serious Sipper of Creative Cocktails
CHAR-GRILLED CLAMS
Ever since I had char-grilled oysters in New Orleans recently, I’ve been obsessed. I’ve made them at least once a week every week since I’ve been back. But the other day, I went to my local seafood store and I saw some beautiful clams, and I thought: Why not try those on the grill? I had some friends over, and I made my Oysters Rock-a-Fellow recipe for them, and I had some leftover gooey cheesy stuffing that goes on top of the oyster.
I thought: Why not use it on the clams and then put them on the grill? A hybrid recipe of two previous recipes, and it really worked!
The first step is to make the gooey cheesy stuffing mix ahead of time.
Ingredients:
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup low-fat milk
• salt and pepper
• 3 cups (tightly packed) fresh arugula, finely chopped, about a 5 oz. container
• 6 oz. mild cheddar cheese (the white one), grated
• 6 oz. mozzarella, grated
• Fine bread crumbs (Using GF breadcrumbs will keep this dish gluten-free)
Instructions:
Melt the butter in a pan and add the onion and garlic. Sauté until translucent, then add the milk, salt and pepper, and the arugula. Sauté for a few minutes, stirring, so that all of the arugula wilts down.
Slowly add the cheddar until it all melts, then add the mozzarella, stirring slowly, until you have one big gooey mass of goodness in the pan.
Pour the gooey cheese mix into a shallow pan and place it in the fridge for a few hours. It will firm up and you will be able to cut it easily into cubes that you will then place on top of the clams.
Once the cheese mixture has firmed up, and it’s time to cook, start a hardwood charcoal fire in your grill.
Open the clams and put them on a tray, topping each clam with a cube of the firm cheese and arugula stuffing mix.
Sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top of each clam.
When your charcoal grill fire is hot, place the clams on the grill and cook until the cheesy topping melts and the clams have a nice char to them.
They will be lava hot when they come off the grill, so give them a few minutes before eating!
Al Milukas
Supporting Rhode Island’s Hospitality Industry Amid Challenges
by Heather R. Singleton President/CEO, Rhode Island Hospitality Association
Having been with the RI Hospitality Association for more than 25 years, I have had the privilege of representing an industry that is not only a cornerstone of our state’s economy but also a vital part of our community’s cultural fabric. However, the past few years have been anything but easy for Rhode Island’s hospitality sector. Today, we find ourselves at a critical juncture, addressing business closures while seeking out opportunities and positives that can help us navigate these challenging times.
Despite these hurdles, Rhode Island’s hospitality industry remains resilient and adaptable. Our businesses have shown incredible ingenuity in finding ways to attract and retain customers. From enhancing outdoor dining experiences, to expanding takeout and delivery options, to making alcohol to go permanent, our members are continually innovating to meet the evolving needs of their patrons. These efforts not only help sustain operations but also provide a sense of consistency and enjoyment for residents and visitors alike.
The importance of the hospitality industry to Rhode Island’s economy cannot be overstated. Our sector is a major employer, providing jobs for thousands of residents across the state. These jobs range from entry-level positions to management roles, offering career opportunities for people of all skill levels and backgrounds. The industry also supports a wide range of educational and training opportunities, as well as ancillary businesses including food and beverage suppliers, cleaning services, and entertainment providers, amplifying its economic impact.
Considering recent closures, it is essential to focus on the opportunities that lie ahead. For one, there is
a growing interest in sustainable and locally sourced food, which presents a unique opportunity for our restaurants and bars to differentiate themselves and attract a more conscientious consumer base. Additionally, the rise of culinary tourism offers a promising avenue for growth. By a continued effort to promote Rhode Island as a premier culinary destination, we can draw visitors from near and far, boosting both our hospitality sector and the broader economy.
It is important to highlight the new businesses that are opening in our state, too. These new establishments bring fresh energy and innovation, contributing to the dynamic landscape of our industry. Celebrating these openings shifts the narrative from one of “doom and gloom” to one of optimism and growth, showcasing the resilience and forward momentum of Rhode Island’s hospitality sector.
RIHA is committed to supporting its members through good times and bad. We are always advocating for policies that will provide relief to struggling businesses. This includes pushing for grants and loans specifically tailored to the needs of the hospitality industry, as well as promoting workforce development initiatives to ensure that our employees have the skills and training needed to thrive in a competitive market.
While the path ahead may be fraught with challenges, the spirit of the Rhode Island hospitality industry remains unbroken. By focusing on innovation, sustainability, and strategic growth, we can turn these challenges into opportunities and continue to play a vital role in the economic and social wellbeing of our state. The RI Hospitality Association stands ready to lead the charge, working tirelessly to ensure that our industry not only survives but thrives in the years to come.
Heather R. Singleton
Fitness Tips
By Stacie Venagro
Embrace the Change: Summer May End, But
Your Fitness Journey Continues
enhance your nutrition and support your fitness goals. Incorporate nutrient-dense foods like pumpkins, sweet potatoes, apples, and leafy greens into your diet. These ingredients not only provide essential vitamins and minerals but also add delicious variety to your meals.
As the days shorten and the air cools, the end of summer often brings a mix of nostalgia and anticipation. While the season of beach trips, outdoor barbecues, and long, sunny days is coming to a close, this doesn’t mean your fitness journey has to slow down. In fact, the transition from summer to fall presents a unique opportunity to reinvigorate your commitment to staying active and healthy. Here’s how to keep your fitness momentum going as the seasons change.
Embrace Outdoor Activities
Fall is a fantastic time to explore new outdoor activities. The cooler weather and vibrant foliage provide the perfect backdrop for hiking, cycling, or running. Take advantage of the crisp air and scenic trails in your area. Activities like apple picking, corn mazes, and outdoor yoga can also add variety to your routine while keeping you active.
Set New Goals
With the change in season, it’s a great time to set new fitness goals. Reflect on what you’ve accomplished over the summer and think about what you want to achieve next. Whether it’s running a 5K, mastering a new yoga pose, or increasing your strength, setting specific, measurable goals can keep you motivated and focused.
Adjust Your Routine
As daylight decreases, you might need to adjust your exercise routine to fit into your schedule. If you’re used to evening workouts but find it too dark outside, consider switching to morning sessions or finding an indoor alternative. Local gyms, community centers, and online fitness programs offer a variety of classes and equipment to keep you engaged.
Incorporate Seasonal Foods
Fall brings a bounty of
Stay Accountable
Maintaining your fitness routine can be challenging as schedules change with the new season. Stay accountable by tracking your progress, joining a fitness group, or enlisting a workout buddy. Having someone to share your journey with can provide motivation and make exercising more enjoyable.
Try Indoor Activities
If outdoor workouts become less appealing, explore indoor activities that keep you moving. From swimming at an indoor pool to taking dance classes or joining a rock climbing gym, there are countless ways to stay active indoors. Online fitness platforms also offer a range of classes that you can do from the comfort of your home.
Mind Your Mental Health
Transitioning from one season to another can impact your mental well-being. Ensure you’re taking time for self-care practices such as meditation, adequate sleep, and relaxation techniques. A healthy mind supports a healthy body, so don’t neglect your mental fitness as part of your overall wellness routine.
Keep it Fun
Most importantly, keep your fitness journey fun and enjoyable. Experiment with new activities, listen to your favorite music, or treat yourself to new workout gear. When you enjoy what you’re doing, it’s easier to stay committed and motivated.
The end of summer doesn’t have to mean the end of your fitness journey. By embracing the change of seasons, setting new goals, and finding activities that you enjoy, you can maintain your momentum and continue to progress. Remember, fitness is a year-round commitment, and with the right mindset and approach, you can thrive in every season.
Self-Defense, Awareness, and Safety in Today’s World for College Bound Students
Better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it!
By Kevin Kearns | Burn With Kearns
As college students prepare to embark on their journey, whether they are leaving their home state or staying local, it’s crucial to equip them with the skills and knowledge for staying safe. With rising concerns about campus safety, especially in New England, students can benefit greatly from self-defense training and heightened self-awareness. The old saying from martial arts and self-defense rings true: “Better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.”
Understanding the Current Landscape
Recent reports of campus-related violence highlight the importance of preparedness:
• Boston, MA: Increased security measures and selfdefense workshops followed a series of assaults near college campuses.
• Providence, RI: Attempted kidnappings near Brown University have emphasized the need for self-defense and vigilance.
• New Haven, CT: An uptick in incidents at Yale University has led to more comprehensive safety programs.
These examples underscore the need for proactive measures to ensure the safety and empowerment of all college students, regardless of gender.
Self-Defense: Equipping Students With Essential Skills
Learning self-defense is crucial for building confidence and preparedness:
1. Enroll in Self-Defense Classes: Look for local community centers, gyms, and colleges that offer classes. Programs like Krav Maga, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and general self-defense courses teach effective techniques for fending off attackers.
2. Practice Regularly: Regular practice helps reinforce techniques and build muscle memory, making responses more instinctive in an emergency.
3. Use Technology: Invest in personal safety apps with real-time tracking, emergency alerts, and quick access to emergency contacts. Apps like Noonlight and bSafe are highly recommended.
Self-Awareness: Staying Alert and Prepared Self-awareness is key to personal safety:
1. Stay Vigilant: Encourage students to stay aware of their surroundings, especially when walking alone at night. Avoid distractions like texting or listening to loud music in unfamiliar areas.
2. Trust Instincts: Teach students to trust their gut feelings. If something feels off, it probably is. Taking action by moving to a well-lit area, entering a store, or calling for help can be crucial.
3. Know the Campus: Familiarity with the campus layout, including emergency call boxes and safe zones, is essential. Many colleges offer orientation programs that include safety tours.
Empowerment goes beyond physical and situational awareness. It’s about fostering a mindset of strength and independence:
1. Join Campus Organizations: Encourage participation in groups focused on empowerment and safety, such as “It’s On Us” and local women’s centers.
2. Self-Empowerment Workshops: Many colleges offer workshops on assertiveness, confidence building, and boundary setting. These can help students develop a strong sense of self and the ability to assert their rights and needs, effectively.
3.Peer Support Systems: Having a reliable group of friends who look out for each other can significantly enhance personal safety. Encourage students to cultivate strong friendships and use the buddy system when going out.
https://burnwithkearns.com/coach-kernes
Practical Tools and Resources
Equip students with tools and resources to enhance their safety:
• Personal Alarms: Devices like keychain alarms can emit a loud noise to deter attackers and attract attention.
• Pepper Spray: If legal in your state, this can be a powerful self-defense tool. Ensure students know how to use it properly.
• Safety Apps: Safety apps can provide an added layer of security, offering features like live tracking and emergency alerts.
•Tactical Flashlights: These are useful, not only for their blinding light, but also as an impact weapon, as taught in our “BWK Be Your Own Bodyguard” course.
Upcoming Workshops in Providence, RI
To further empower students, we are hosting “SelfDefense for You” workshops in Providence, RI, on 8/8/24 and 9/18/24. These sessions are designed to provide practical self-defense skills, boost self-awareness, and build confidence, helping students prepare for their college journey with a proactive approach to their safety and well-being.
As college students step into the next chapter of their lives, their safety is a top priority. By equipping them with self-defense skills, fostering self-awareness, and empowering them with knowledge and resources, we can help them navigate this exciting journey with confidence and security. Proactive preparation and open communication about safety and personal wellbeing are key. With these tools, students will be better prepared to face the challenges of college life, making the most of their experience while staying safe.
For more information and to register for our upcoming workshops, visit our website or contact Coach Kearns. Let’s work together to empower our students and ensure they have the skills they need to stay safe and thrive.
https://youtu.be/OckgX-eDtZ4
Do Certain Foods Actually Burn Fat?
By: Susan Gazerro
Foods with claims that they burn fat make it sound like you can eat whatever you want because when you eat these foods, they will burn the fat. This is not necessarily the case. There are foods that boost your metabolism and help balance your calorie intake, and both of these can assist with weight loss, but we all know the key to keeping weight off is to burn more calories than you take in. It’s not all that hard if you eat foods that keep you feeling full. Following are some foods that can help speed your metabolism, keep you feeling full and give you more energy.
Quinoa and brown rice. It is recommended that you have these whole grains as part of your diet because they are high in both fiber and protein. That combination will help keep you fuller, longer. They are a great addition to any meal or a base for salad.
High protein promotes and repairs muscle growth. Protein is the building block for your muscle and is the fuel that burns fat. Your body burns more calories to process protein than it does to process carbs and fats. Try lean proteins such as chicken,
turkey, salmon or lean beef.
Cinnamon. Studies show that cinnamon mimics the activity of insulin, changing how carbohydrates and sugar are metabolized. When cinnamon is in your system your metabolism speeds up because it takes extra energy to metabolize, which allows you to burn more calories.
Fresh ginger root is packed with beneficial nutrients. Ginger may help lower inflammation and cholesterol, improve digestion, provide general relaxation, and ginger burns fat.
Kale is a superfood! It is low in calories and packed with vitamins and minerals. Kale contains manganese, which is essential for processing food into energy for your cells. It is also rich in protein and is full of antioxidants.
Cucumbers are significant to weight loss because of their high water and low-calorie contents. Simple! Beans are an important weight loss food. Beans keep you feeling full for hours due to their high content of insoluble fiber. “Insoluble fiber expands
in your belly and GI tract when combined with any liquids. You may feel bloated, but this helps keep you regulated.
While Ezekiel is a brand name, any sprouted grain bread will serve the purpose of keeping you full for a longer period of time, as it’s naturally dense in nutrients, and also high in fiber. Start your day with peanut butter on this delicious bread and it will help maintain your digestive tract.
You don’t have to cut out foods to lose weight. Even pasta can be part of your diet. Try whole wheat pasta, which will provide your carb fix, while fueling your brain and muscles. Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy for the brain and muscles. Having the right carbs stored in your muscles is essential to keep you energized in between meals and during exercise.
Apples are a great source of pectin, a filling fiber. The crunch when eating an apple appeals to psychological satisfaction. Studies associated the consumption of whole apples or apple juice over a 4 to 12-week period showed weight loss in people who are overweight. Forget the crackers and cheese, try apples and cheese.
Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fat. The good fat.This is a great food to eat when you are trying to lose weight because it helps increase satiety until your next meal. Half of an avocado offers 6 grams of fiber, and more potassium per gram than bananas.
Spinach is packed with vitamin B and is fiberfriendly. This leafy green is a wonderful food to incorporate into your meals. Spinach has a high water content, like cucumbers, which makes it lower in overall calories, and is full of nutrients.
Bananas! A banana, only has 120 calories, but 3 grams of fiber, and is a filling snack—especially when you add peanut butter. They also provide a good source of potassium and magnesium.
Greek yogurt is higher in protein and naturally lower in sugar than other yogurts, especially when consumed plain. It is also a great source of protein, which helps balance the carbohydrates it provides.
Oatmeal not only provides soluble fiber, but has higher protein content than most other grains. Having oatmeal in the morning will keep you full for three to four hours. Consider topping with chopped almonds for more protein, and blueberries for added fiber.
Chocolate! Chocolate will help keep you on track because it will help control your urge to binge eat. Dark chocolate is full of antioxidants! It’s the quantity you have to watch, but yes, even chocolate can a be part of your healthy diet.
Keep in mind, even these foods if eaten in excess can cause weight gain. Again, the key is to burn more calories than you take in.
For over 70 years Esten & Richard has been helping clients with their insurance needs. They provide all types of Business and Personal insurance programs.
“Our goal is to continue to provide our customers with the best insurance coverage and service possible in order to protect their assets and therefore to secure their financial well-being, “ advised Frank Richard, President of the Esten & Richard Agency. “Partnering with World Insurance Associates will further strengthen our ability to do so.”
Celebrating 30 Years Of Waterfire
By Paul Lonardo
A lot of people may not know that Waterfire Providence began as a creative and interactive vision by artist Barnaby Evans. It was thirty years ago when Evans sought to celebrate the 10th anniversary of First Night Providence. His masterpiece was an award-winning fire sculpture installation along the three rivers in the heart of downtown Providence, stretching from WaterPlace Basin to Steeple Street. His main goal was to bring a new sense of life to downtown, all while using the river as a representation of life flowing through the city.
“I started to look at these public interactions in urban environments and wondered how art could change the way people behave in a public place and whether you could use art
to rebuild a sense of community,” Evans said. “I thought that might be an opportunity to use that new beginning of the river as a place to think about Providence in a new light.”
With that, Waterfire was born in 1994, which was called “First Fire,” appropriately enough, and Evans himself may not have known how the event would go on to become synonymous with the capital city three decades later. The event immediately resonated with people, offering something that local residents can be proud of as the city became a destination place for everyone around the state, as well as outside Rhode Island’s borders.
“Ideally it’s a place of total freedom,” Evans said. “You don’t pay admission, there’s no line, there’s no reserved seats, you can come and engage with
Photo by Michael Hayes
the space exactly how you feel like you would to engage that night.”
The events are typically held once a month May through November on Saturday evenings, but this August, you’ll have three opportunities to check out Waterfire Providence and everything it has to offer. There will be full lightings on Saturday, August 3, Saturday, August 17, and Saturday August 31. The events will start at sunset and conclude at 11 PM.
As a cultural and artistic scene, WaterFire Providence is now a Rhode Island tradition, which attracts visitors from around the globe. When the sun goes down and the events kicks off, the city turns into one big, glowing party. More than 100 fires are set ablaze on braziers floating in the water. This series of bonfires installed on the three rivers of Downtown Providence illuminate almost two-thirds of a mile of parks and public spaces. Visitors experience the scent of blazing cedar and pine while hearing the crackle of flames as firelight flickers and dances along bridges and pathways while a variety of performers travel along the rivers in torch-lit vessels. Music from around the world plays and there is always an array of food and beverages to enjoy as you stroll the grounds around the riverfront.
In addition, the entire city comes alive with artistic performances, such as fire blowers and living art sculptures. Surrounding parks are transformed into artistic experiences, streets are closed for local craft vendors, food trucks and more.
With all these sights, sounds, smells, and tastes, WaterFire Providence has been described as a feast for the senses, which draws about a million visitors to the city each year. If you’ve never been, it’s the perfect time of the year for Waterfire with the warm afternoons cooling down significantly after the sun sets. Soak up the spectacle with family, friends, and neighbors, take a gondola ride, or a riverboat ride for a firsthand, up-close experience on the river.
New England’s Office Technology & Managed Service Provider
By: Carrie McPherson
I T SERVICES
Proactive security and improved productivity through infrastructure evaluations and our highly experienced, in-house Help Desk
• Network Management
• Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)
• Cyber Security and Firewall
• Document Management
OF FICE SOLUTIONS
Standardization for streamlined workflows, providing technical support, supplies, and service for your whole organization.
• Multifunctional Copiers (MFPs)
• Wide Format MFPs
• Interactive Whiteboards
• Mailing Solutions
• Data Deconstruction
The Bristol 4th of July Parade was founded in 1785 and is nationally known for being the oldest Independence Day celebration in the USA. Festivities start on June 14th with outdoor concerts, soapbox races and firefighters’ muster at Independence Park. The parade draws over 200,000 people from Rhode Island and around the world. I’ve watched the parade as a spectator for over 40 years but I wanted to know what it’s like being on the float looking out at the crowd. It was amazing. The one thing I’ve always loved about the parade is everyone is smiling, having fun and it really is one of the best times of the year. This year I was on the float with one of the most popular bands in Rhode Island Crushed Velvet. I got to sit and take pictures, but imagine how difficult it is playing live on a moving float between heat exhaustion, sound, the crowds.... all the equipment had to be bolted down. I interviewed guitarist Stephen Howe about what it was like for him to play on the float.
LR: Wow what an amazing experience it was being on the float looking out at the crowd. I had the best seat in the house with you guys playing 70s music behind me tell me about the challenges you face playing on the float
SH:You’re on a flatbed trailer and there’s nothing to hold onto and the truck is stopping and going. There are times you really lose your balance. I almost fell over a few times. Also getting up at 4:30 and getting all the equipment onto the float, secured down and hearing what’s going on so you can perform at your best is also challenging
LR: This is your second time playing with Crushed Velvet on the float. What is your favorite thing about it and most memorable experience?
SH: My favorite thing about it is the display of patriotism by the people in the town. Everyone is there celebrating America’s birthday. It’s a sense of pride in our country. My most memorable experience was the first time we played it was about 95° and we are wearing our stage clothes. I thought I was going to black out. I said to our singer/guitarist Joe Scolaro ”I’m going to pass out” he nudged me away and said ”Not now Howard” I didn’t think I’d make it .
Photos by L.A. Reilly
Should I downsize my home in retirement?
By Carrie McPherson
If you are approaching retirement or are already there, you may be considering downsizing your home. It’s a big decision, with ramifications for both your finances and your lifestyle. As you think about downsizing, here are some things to keep in mind:
Decide if a move makes sense. You can expect your needs and priorities to shift in retirement. Perhaps you won’t require as much square footage as you did when raising children, or you may find it challenging to keep up with home maintenance like you used to.
It may be financially prudent and personally necessary to get out from under the costs and responsibilities of maintaining a larger property. Your location preference may shift, too. It is common for retirees to desire living closer to family members or in warmer climates.
Create a timeline for your move. Discuss the pros and cons of selling your family home now or in the future. External market factors can affect your next step. Timing the sale of your home and the purchase of a new one can be tricky. Be prepared in the event your home doesn’t sell quickly.
Consult a real estate professional. A real estate professional can help you determine what needs to be done before putting your house up for sale. Your home may need repairs to meet code or maximize its list price. Get an appraisal of current market value and decide what you’ll be comfortable spending on a new, smaller home.
Review your housing options. Once you decide to downsize, you can start looking for a new place that meets your needs and budget. If you’re considering a condo or townhome (two popular options for retirees) make sure to factor in any fees or assessments that are charged to residents when calculating the overall cost of ownership. If you’re in need of assisted living services, you’ll also want to get a handle on those costs – and whether they
can be offset by any long-term care insurance you may have – so you can plan accordingly. In terms of location, you may want to think about the proximity of amenities and services including grocery stores, transportation and your doctor’s office.
Be prepared for a multi-gen conversation. A change as impactful as selling your home may prompt conversations with family members on the topic of your estate. Downsizing usually requires whittling down the personal possessions you’ve acquired over the years. If you’re moving to a residence with managed maintenance, you won’t need the lawn mower, snowblower, or other tools in your garage. That extra set of dishes might be more useful to someone else. If you’re thinking of giving items to family members, be prepared for the possibility of different generations having different interests and attachments to your home and belongings. It can be a good idea to establish how you want to explain to family members your lifestyle goals for retirement, so they can support you through the process.
Review your finances carefully. Take the time to thoroughly review the financial implications of your specific situation. Just because you are downsizing does not necessarily mean you will suddenly have a cash windfall or establish enormous savings. Remember that HOA expenses, lifestyle changes and upgrades in construction quality can add to costs. Additionally, if you choose to move to a retirement area that has more built-in services, it can increase your cost of living, as well. Taking the time to explore the intricacies of your situation can prepare you for the next steps. And remember: you don’t have to do it alone. A qualified financial advisor can help you navigate this complex process with confidence.
Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. in Providence, RI. She specializes in fee based financial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 15 years. Please contact her at www.ameripriseadvisors.com/team/beacon-point-wealth-advisors or (401)824-2557, 1 Citizens Plaza Ste 610 Providence, RI 02903.
Ameriprise Financial, Inc. and its affiliates do not offer tax or legal advice. Consumers should consult with their tax advisor or attorney regarding their specific situation. Stock investments involve risk, including loss of principal. High-quality stocks may be appropriate for some investment strategies. Ensure that your investment objectives, time horizon and risk tolerance are aligned with investing in stocks, as they can lose value.
There are risks associated with fixed-income investments, including credit risk, interest rate risk, and prepayment and extension risk. In general, bond prices rise when interest rates fall and vice versa. This effect is usually more pronounced for longer term securities.
The initial consultation provides an overview of financial planning concepts. You will not receive written analysis and/or recommendations.
products are not insured by the FDIC, NCUA or any federal agency, are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by any financial institution, and involve investment risks including possible loss of principal and fluctuation in value.
and
“An
“We
“Omg,
RICHARD COLISANTE INSURANCE
12 Things You Didn’t Know
12 Things You Didn’t Know
Charles F. Feeney has given away $8 billion—he now has $2 million to live on.
Spanish just for the purpose of trash talking opponents.
1. Wearing linked with poorer mental health, according to a 2021 study.
The sentence “the quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog” uses every letter in the English language.
The world’s first labor strike was held on the site of a pyramid.
MC Hammer once challenged Michael Jackson to a dance-off.
New research has found that the more visually creative a person is, the lower the quality of their sleep.
The average American woman now weighs as much as the average 1960s man.
2. The average person has four to six dreams per night.
The world’s oldest hotel has been operating since 705 AD in Japan.
All of the Rugrats were voiced by women.
The average human eats 8 spiders in their lifetime, at night.
Subscriptions to streaming music services increased by 50% in 2016, totaling 92 million.
Research shows that the creativity may begin in the cerebellum, rather than the “right brain.”
3. Every day, more iPhones are sold than people are born.
The name tag on Heath Ledger’s nurse uniform in “The Dark Knight” read “Mathilda” the name of the actor’s daughter.
The average human eats 22 flies in their lifetime, at night.
In a group of 23 people, there is a 50% chance that 2 of them will share the same birthday.
According to an extensive study, the best day to buy plane tickets is Sunday—especially if you’re booking more than 21 days in advance.
Making art has been found to lower stress hormone levels in most people, regardless of skill.
You can control the volume of a YouTube video by using the up and down arrows on your keyboard.
4. In 1982, a whopping 43% of fathers admitted to never changing a diaper. By 2000, this number had fallen to just 3%.
A rhinoceros horn is made of compacted hair.
One man, without help and without proper construction tools, spent 34 years building the Watts Towers, which still stand in Los Angeles.
Studies show that, when it comes to food, the human brain is bad at judging quantity increases but accurate at judging quantity decreases.
In New York City, about 1,600 people are bitten by other humans every year.
A U.S. study found that the most disproportionately common interest found on people’s resumes in New Hampshire is “Bigfoot.”
5. Approximately 80% of all languages ever spoken by humans are now extinct.
The shortest war in history was between Zanzibar and England in 1896. Zanzibar surrendered after 38 minutes.
Louisiana has the highest incarceration rate of any U.S. state, and New Orleans has the highest incarceration rate of any city in the state.
50% of Netflix users watch an entire season of a show in a week.
A new U.S. study has found that economy round-trip and one-way airline tickets are the lowest they’ve been since 2013.
6. The word “escape” comes from the medieval Latin term ‘excappare,’ meaning “to leave a pursuer with just one’s cape”.
The design of the tallest residential building in the world, 432 Park Avenue in Manhattan, was inspired by a trash can.
A polar bear’s skin is black. Its fur is not white, but actually clear.
Samsung has been granted a patent in South Korea for contact lenses that project images directly into the wearer’s eyes.
By 2050, it’s estimated that four trucks of plastic waste will be added to the ocean every minute.
Studies show the key to happiness is spending your money on experiences rather than possessions.
Studies show the key to happiness is spending your money on experiences rather than possessions.
7. The winner of the first modern marathon at the 1896 Olympics stopped in the middle of the race for a glass of wine.
Donald Duck comics were banned in Finland because he doesn’t wear pants.
By 2017, it is estimated that nearly 207 billion emails will be sent every day.
Research shows that kids are more likely to be honest when they know it will please their parents, even if their parents still punish them.
On average, early risers writing emails between 4am and 8am make 11.8 mistakes per 100 words.
Air Jordans were banned from the NBA, however Michael Jordan always wore them as Nike was willing to pay the fine for each game.
8. If you move every letter in the word ‘cheer’ seven spaces forward in the English alphabet, you get the word ‘jolly’.
More people are killed by donkeys annually than are killed in plane crashes.
A recent study found that higher blood pressure in an expectant mother is associated with having a boy.
Studies suggest that gifted people often have bad handwriting because their brains work faster than their hands.
A study found that only 24% of Canadians know that Queen Elizabeth II is their head of state.
Studies show Americans ages 18-29 are far more stressed out that anyone else in the country.
Shakespeare invented the words “assassination” and “bump.”
Cheetos are naturally gray before they are given a bright orange artificial color.
9. It took 200,000 years for the modern human population to reach one billion, and just another 200 years to reach seven billion.
In 2015, Americans wrote out 17.3 billion checks. In the same year, they made 69.5 billion debit card purchases.
Cotton candy only costs about six cents per serving to make, including the cardboard cone.
Research has found that, on average, a person’s social media writing contains three times as many mistakes as their emails.
If you keep a goldfish in the dark room, it will eventually turn white.
10. Researchers have successfully implanted memories in the brains of snails, allowing them to recall experiences they never had.
Looking through Instagram accounts of healthy meals can actually trick you into enjoying those foods more than you otherwise would, a study found.
According to a survey, 67% of hiring managers cite lack of eye contact as the biggest mistake candidates make in interviews.
According to NASA, the perfect nap should last no more than 26 minutes.
The name of all the continents end with the same letter that they start with.
Amy Schumer is the only woman ever to land on Forbes’s list of the world’s highest-paid comedians.
Women are statistically better drivers then men.
11. 89% of people believe music is essential for their health and wellbeing, according to a 2022 study.
New research has found that the NFL players that incur the most penalties get arrested more than their teammates.
According to USDA projections, by 2025 Americans will consume 219 pounds of meat per year on average.feeling to occur.
The word “lethologica” describes the state of not being able to remember the word you want.
Studies suggest that eye contact must be held for about 8.2 seconds for that “Love at first sight” feeling to occur.
It cost $15 million to build Disneyland’s New Orleans Square—the amount the U.S. paid for the real New Orleans in the Louisiana Purchase.
12. At his peak, Pablo Escobar’s cartel earned about $420 million a week and controlled 80% of the worldwide cocaine market.
How Might the 2024 Presidential Election Impact Markets? History May Offer Clues
By: Edward Pontarelli Jr.
The 2024 presidential election is quickly approaching, and investors may be wondering if and how the outcome will impact the stock market and underlying investments. While every campaign cycle comes with its unique set of circumstances, we can turn to history as an indicator of how markets typically act in an election year. Here are a few trends investors should keep in mind.
Historic trends in election years.
In general, market volatility trends higher early in an election year as candidates are being finalized and then again as the election nears, as investors react to the ebbs and flows of the news cycle and grapple with the unknown of what is to come. Following election day, as the winner becomes clear, market volatility levels tend to normalize.
The impact of incumbency.
The candidate pool for presidency can further impact markets and volatility trends. Typically, volatility has been higher in election cycles where there has not been an incumbent in the running. Stock market returns have also been more favorable in years when an incumbent has been on the ballot, than when two non-incumbents have faced off.The 2024 election will be an interesting test of these trends, as it is the first rematch of presidential candidates since 1956, when sitting President Dwight D. Eisenhower defeated Adlai Stevenson for a second time.
Policy changes.
Historically, market returns tend to be stronger in the first two years of a returning president’s term as investors have experience with the administration’s policies. Returning administrations generally have more experience navigating political barriers and may be better equipped to see policy through. How much any presidential administration can accomplish is limited by policymakers in Congress and local and state legislatures – and their political party make-up is a pivotal detail of election years.
History has not been as kind to markets as the administration’s second term passes its halfway point. During these last two years, there is limited time to implement policy, and investors and the American public may start looking ahead to the unknown policies of a new administration, becoming more sensitive to fiscal and policy uncertainty as the next election draws near.
Bottom line: Stick to the fundamentals and invest for the long term.
Political cycles can be intimidating to investors as they look to prepare for the uncertainty that comes with the election year and beyond. Regardless of the political backdrop, financial markets are principally driven by growth in the economy, corporate profits, and the direction of interest rates longer-term. Importantly, fluctuations in markets are normal, and it is usually beneficial to stick to the fundamentals. A diversified portfolio with a mix of different investments selected according to your goals and risk tolerance is key to avoiding potential overexposure to unnecessary investment risk. Diversification helps investors mitigate risks in their portfolios that may be caused by geopolitical circumstances, election volatility, or policy changes.
It is normal for emotions to run high as you anticipate the uncertainty that an election, or an administration’s policies, may have on the economy or your portfolio. As an investor, it is understandable to consider the impact of an election on your investments, but remember it is only one short-term factor. Review your investment strategy and financial plan with a financial advisor who can help you stay attuned to your long-term goals.
A Wish Come True’s Gala On September 28th,
will honor Athletic Director at Providence College Event to honor Steve and Beth Napolillo for their long-standing contributions.
by Mark Berger
The fall events season gets underway soon. With so many options for businesses and individuals to support area causes, there will be ways for everyone to brighten the lives of others.
One charitable organization, A Wish Come True— the oldest wish-granting organization in Rhode Island and Massachusetts,—will host its “Wishes Take Flight” Gala on Saturday, September 28th, at the Crowne Plaza Pavilion in Warwick.
Event festivities begin at 6:00 PM, featuring a cocktail hour. Other activities include a sit-down dinner, dancing, music provided by the Rug Burn Band, live and silent auctions, and more. Providence College Athletic Director Steve Napolillo and his wife, Beth, will be presented with the prestigious 2024 A Wish Come True Lifetime Impact Award for their contributions and commitment to helping others.
A Wish Come True Executive Director Mary-Kate O’Leary said that recognizing the Napolillo’s for their efforts was easy.
“Steve and Beth are unsung heroes for making our mission their priority,” she said. “Their time and efforts toward helping our ‘Wish Kids’ means so much. The couple devotes their resources to help so many Wish Kids and their families realize that there are people who do make dreams come true. Over the years, it is estimated that Steve and Beth
have connected donors and raised over $1.2 million towards granting wishes through their own private events, golf tournaments and leadership gifts at every A Wish Come True fundraising function.”
The couple has strong ties with A Wish Come True. Last fall, the organization dedicated a playroom and relaxation center in their Coventry office to Steve’s late father, Bob. “Nap’s Nook is an incredible way to honor such commitment by this family. The celebration was marked with several members of the PC Friars Men’s Basketball team in attendance, and it is anticipated they will be present on September 28th, along with many from the Providence College Friars family that love them as much as A Wish Come True.
Steve, who has been involved with A Wish Come True for more than two decades, said the honor is humbling to both of them.
“Beth and I are humbled about A Wish Come True celebrating our outreach over the last 21 years,” he said. “This is a cause that has deep roots within our entire family. It’s truly unbelievable for us to accept this award, but it would never have happened without the strength and support of the people working alongside us to make a difference for these families.”
Massey and Associates, Inc., is the Gala’s Presenting Sponsor. Massey and Associates, Inc., known for their unwavering commitment to community engagement and philanthropy, embody the spirit of compassion and generosity that defines the Gala. Their support not only helps make wishes a reality, but also inspires others to join in their mission of spreading happiness and creating unforgettable experiences for deserving children.
“We are honored to serve as the presenting sponsor for the Gala,” said Jeff Massey, Founder and CEO of Massey and Associates, Inc. “Supporting initiatives
Presenting Sponsor: Jeff Massey of Massey and Associates, Inc.
that bring joy and comfort to children facing adversity aligns perfectly with our core values. We are excited to be part of such a meaningful cause and look forward to making a positive impact in the lives of these courageous children.”
There is still time to become involved as the organization is seeking sponsorships, ticket and table sales. and of course donations in honor of the Napolillo family. For sponsorship opportunities or to learn more about the A Wish Come True Gala, please visit www.awish.org, or contact Pamela Bhatia, Director of Philanthropy and Communications at 401-781-9199.
A Wish Come True grants wishes and provides resources to families that have a child struggling with a lifethreatening illness, living in Rhode Island or Massachusetts. Last year, they celebrated their 40th anniversary and granted 43 wishes to children and their families. This was a significant jump from granting 19 wishes in 2022. They already have 15 Wish Children waiting for their magical wish in 2024, and they are funded through the generosity of the community. What makes A Wish Come True different is that they embrace the family along the journey, before, during, and after the wish. This includes supporting wish families through their Meghan Duffy Hardship Fund. Since January, over $30,000 of financial support has been given to 22 families in need to support rent, utilities, home repairs, medical bills, car repairs, gas and groceries. Gift certificates are needed to further help families.
Additional information May be found by contacting Mary-Kate O’Leary at: Marykate@awishcometrue.org, 401-644-2237. Or, visit the website at www.awish.org to learn more about their work, upcoming events and how to participate in the Gala.
Meet The Dream Team: Matt Sullivan
Each month, Shop in RI Magazine profiles one member of “The Dream Team,” a weekly networking group that meets in Smithfield. This month, we feature Matt Sullivan of Local Lead Growth in North Attleboro, MA.
Matt works with business owners in both his home state and neighboring Rhode Island. His mission is identifying nearby digital marketing opportunities for his clients. No “nationwide” searches for Matt, instead, he gets hyperspecific about who his customers are, what they are looking for, and how to connect with them directly.
Come visit Rhode Island’s largest window treatment showroom ... or let us bring the showroom to you, with our FREE shop-at-home service.
Sullivan’s goal is to help generate leads for local businesses. He keeps their phones ringing by sending them relevant leads that give them a high return on investment s for over a decade.
Matt’s professional philosophy is “More Leads. More Reviews. More Profits.”
“I only work with local businesses. I’m fully accountable to them. No long-term contracts. No red tape. I meet them in person every month,” he said.
Sullivan began his business in May 2023, after going around introducing himself to local businesses in his backyard, and told them how he could help generate them more business, with low risk.
He likes this approach because, “it still works.” Using Facebook and Google ads are effective for getting one’s message out to their respective audiences. Matt also follows up to ensure what is expected gets done, and the results are clear for his customers to see.
While Local Lead Growth works in many industries, Matt’s ventures vary from yoga classes to home remodelers. He said that it comes down to what companies are searching for and putting them in touch with the best partners.
Local Lead Growth works with many local industries. The main thing is that they’re local. They use the tried-and-true methods that work best to help local businesses generate leads.
“Local Lead Growth is all about sending local businesses relevant leads that help them grow their bottom line. All they need to do is pick up the phone. We take care of the rest,” he said.
They currently offer a deal where customers can purchase one ad campaign and get four other services free for three months. The idea is to ‘lift all boats at once,’ so, while they’re generating solid revenue, they’re also building up their website and Google “My Business” profile, so that after three months, they’re getting leads, consistently, from multiple sources.
More details about Local Lead Growth may be found either by calling 508-715-3004, or by visiting their website at www.localleadgrowth.com.
As for joining The Dream Team, Matt said he met with President Rocco Elgar, who invited him to attend a meeting. The meeting impressed Matt enough to become a member shortly thereafter. He enjoys having a sales force in his back pocket to help with reaching his goals.
“The Dream Team” currently has 26 members and is growing. They meet every Wednesday morning, from 7:00 AM to 8:30 AM, at the Home2Suites Hilton on Douglas Pike (Rte. 7), in Smithfield, across from Laura’s Bar and Grill. The group is looking to grow its team and is interested in meeting professionals from various businesses, looking to connect and help each other grow through referral business. The Dream Team is all about “Friends helping Friends.”
Further information about the group may be found by contacting either President Rocco Elgar at 401265-0857 or at therockhbi@msn.com, or Vice President Tim Richard at 401-766-4200 or at tim@ estenandrichardinsurance.com.
401SECURED Is There When You Need Them
by Paul Lonardo
You’ve probably heard of restoration companies before, even if you do not know exactly what they do. For this, you can count yourself lucky. And for those who need the kind of service they provide, you’ll be glad to know they exist. Rhode Islanders are fortunate they have 401Secured and their team of certified technicians who are all highly trained and experienced in all aspects of fire and water restoration, as well as mold and reconstruction.
They use the latest technology and techniques to ensure the best possible outcome for their clients.
Brothers Nick and David Chamberlain, along with a third business partner, Lou Critelou, started 401Secured in November 2023, and although this is a fairly new business, the three founders came from diverse backgrounds in the construction field and more than twenty years of experience A majority of their work is handling fire cases, along with reparations associated with smoke and water damages.
“We handle the restoration from start to finish,” says David Chamberlain. “We’re a fullservice company. Everything’s in-house, and we aim to limit how many claims we have so we can focus on the entire process for a client.”
No case is too big for 401Secured, whether partial or complete reconstruction, residential or commercial, this company has proven it can handle it all. They have a full-time staff, employees working in the field with them
as well as in the office. The company also provides emergency board-up services.
When windows, doors and roofs have been compromised, the team with 401Secured can be on site immediately to board up the breaches to keep the premises safe and secure in the immediate aftermath of a fire.
They cover the entire state of Rhode Island and local Massachusetts, working with other restoration companies, public adjusters, independent adjusters, to ensure that each case receives the individual care it deserves.
“At 401Secured, we understand that every restoration project is unique,” Chamberlain
says. “That’s why we take a personalized approach to each job, tailoring our services to meet the specific needs of our clients. And we stay in constant communication with our customers until the job is done.”
401Secured is a dependable fire-water-smokerestoration company. Their office is located at 293 Waterman Avenue in Smithfield. 24/7 services are available, with office hours are 8 am to 5 pm weekly and by appointment on the weekends. Should the unforeseen occur, call 401-732-8733 to have one of the team members come out to provide a free consultation and quote, or if you have questions or special requests. Visit their website 401Secured.com for more information.
Authentic Appreciation in the Workplace and the Demand for IT!
by Alicia J. Alexander, MSL Founder of Make A Difference Consulting
Q: What is authentic appreciation in the workplace?
Authentic appreciation in the workplace refers to the genuine acknowledgment of an employee’s efforts, achievements, and contributions. Unlike superficial or perfunctory praise, Authentic Appreciation is heartfelt and specific. It involves understanding and valuing an individual’s unique qualities and the impact of their work. Authentic Appreciation is communicated through sincere words and actions, tailored to the recipient’s preferences and personality. It goes beyond formal awards or bonuses, encompassing everyday interactions that convey respect and gratitude.
Q: How can authentic appreciation be expressed?
There are various ways to express Authentic Appreciation.
Among them are:
• Words of Affirmation: Taking the time to acknowledge specific actions and behaviors that demonstrate an employee’s strengths and contributions. Including, sending handwritten notes or personalized emails that articulate genuine appreciation.
• Public Recognition: Identifying achievements in team meetings or company communications, to highlight an individual’s impact.
• Quality Time: Investing time in understanding employees’ aspirations and challenges, showing that their efforts are noticed and valued.
• Acts of Service: Helping with tasks or providing resources to make an employee’s job easier, showing appreciation through supportive actions.
• Celebrating Milestones: Recognizing personal and professional milestones, such as work anniversaries or project completions.
Why is authentic appreciation needed in the workplace?
Authentic appreciation is essential in the workplace for several reasons:
1. Employee Engagement: When employees feel
genuinely valued, their engagement levels increase. They become more committed to aligning their work and the organization’s goals, leading to higher productivity and quality of work.
2. Job Satisfaction: Feeling appreciated is a significant factor in job satisfaction. Employees who receive Authentic Appreciation are more likely to enjoy their work, leading to lower turnover rates and a more positive workplace culture.
3. Motivation: Authentic Appreciation serves as a powerful motivator. It encourages employees to maintain and enhance their performance, promoting a culture of continuous improvement and excellence.
4. Trust and Loyalty: Authentic Appreciation helps build trust between employees and management. When employees believe their contributions are recognized and valued, they develop a stronger sense of loyalty to the organization.
5. Mental Health and Well-being: Regular, sincere acts of appreciation positively impact employees’ mental health and well-being by reducing stress, increasing happiness, and creating a supportive work environment.
6. Collaboration and Teamwork: A culture of Authentic Appreciation fosters better collaboration and teamwork. When employees feel valued, they are more likely to support and recognize each other, enhancing overall team dynamics.
In summary, Authentic Appreciation is a cornerstone of a healthy and productive workplace. It goes beyond mere acknowledgment, creating an environment where employees feel seen, valued, and motivated to contribute their best efforts. Investing in Authentic Appreciation practices can lead to a more engaged, satisfied, and cohesive workforce.
Alicia J. Alexander, MSL, is the Founder of Make A Difference Consulting in Pawtucket, RI. As an Organizational Appreciation Expert and a Certified Facilitator of The 5 Languages of Appreciation In The Workplace, she specializes in promoting Authentic Appreciation and harmonious work cultures. Ms. Alexander is a published author on the topic of Organizational Development and Change. She holds a Master of Science in Leadership from Grand Canyon University, and she is pursuing a Doctor of Education degree in Organizational Leadership with an emphasis on Organizational Development (qualitative research).
SUMME R SUMMER FIRE SAF E FIRE SAF E T T Y Y
FIREWORKS
•Fireworks are dangerous! Using them puts you and your property at serious risk.
•The best way to stay safe from fireworks is to not use them. Instead, attend a public fireworks display.
FIRE PITS
GRILLING SAFETY
•ALWAYS CLEAN your grill before or after each use. Burned-on food residue and leftover grease can easily ignite a fire.
•Place your grill well away from your home and out from under eaves, ceilings, and overhanging branches.
• NEVER use a grill indoors!
• Create a 3-foot safe zone around your grill when in use. DO NOT allow children or pets within it.
•NEVER leave your grill unattended.
•Place outdoor fire pits at least 10 feet from your home or anything else that can easily catch fire.
•Use a metal screen over wood-burning fires to keep sparks from floating out.
•Closely watch children when the fire pit is in use.
•Put out fires with water. Ensure there are no red-hot coals or smoking embers remaining.
Ask An Expert
My name is Tom Lopatosky. I’m the President of LOPCO Contracting (www. LopcoContracting.com) & I’m honored to have the opportunity to talk to you about home improvement on a monthly basis. I love answering your questions! Please send them to tom@LopcoContracting.com or call 401-270-2664. Thanks in advance for taking the time to read this column!
Why ‘Hose Tests’ Do NOT Work
Some things at the outset may seem to make a lot of sense, until they do not.
A perfect example of this is something that I refer to as the ‘hose test.’
As many folks are aware, we do a ton of work helping people identify areas of their home, where there is leaking occurring from its exterior, and subsequently, offer solutions.
Our aim is for our guidance to be as correct as possible, with the ultimate goal of eliminating anything that could possibly be causing any of the types of leaking, which we had been summoned to help evaluate.
The process of pinpointing the exact issue is often painstaking, and many times can involve a number of different points of penetration, all having their leaky water paths converging together, and exiting at the same place.
One might imagine how challenging this is to patiently delve into, investigate, and truly diagnose where the leak is coming from.
Though one may initially believe that trying to speed up this process by invoking the use of a garden hose on the home’s exterior, and that dousing potential leak points with high volumes of water would certainly do the trick, this is far from the best approach.
The reason being that leaks - especially the finicky ones – often require very specific weather conditions to show their face.
While blasting a section of the roof with water, may utopically create a condition where the pesky leak is easily identified, truly working through this type of situation and correcting things is a much more persistently mundane process, where fighting the urge to ‘hurry up and find it,’ must be superseded with focused discipline on the overall goal.
Many leaks are not only associated with rain, but also with the wind that accompanies the rain.
There are seemingly infinite examples of times when a leak is attempting to be diagnosed, and in a straight heavy rain condition no water comes in, and with a rain of a much lesser volume, but is associated with a wind-driven element from just the right direction, has the leak streaming in like an overflowing brook in the middle of the woods!
Although I realize that having a leak is annoying, to truly guarantee that the leak has been ‘gotten’ there is a process that should be followed.
This process involves a peeling back of layers of sorts from both the exterior and the interior side of things and is NOT something that should be rushed if you really want to neutralize the leak.
It is not unusual to find an area where there appears to be a leak coming in, then after correcting it, one would have to wait for the exact weather conditions to develop that are necessary to properly “test” if the leak is taken care of before the leaking scenario can be considered resolved.
In fact, the process can be even more excruciating than this, as my guidance is often to have things test “clean” twice before making the necessary subsequent repairs – which would mean that even MORE waiting is required, until the “correct” weather conditions to test present themselves again!
Leaks coming from roof areas, exterior trim & siding, windows, doors, etc., can be elusive when working to chase them down. Also, using a tool such as a garden hose to test things with the intention of moving things along, while perhaps a good idea on the surface, unfortunately, does not typically provide the most proper testing necessary to expedite these types of situations to the point where they can comfortably be looked upon as “solved.”
About Tom Lopatosky
Tom Lopatosky has run his own RI-based painting and repair business since 1995; LOPCO Contracting – the “Personable, Particular Professionals” – specializes in exterior & interior painting and carpentry. Recently LOPCO Contracting was named ‘RI’s Finest Painting Contracting Company’ by ShopInRI Magazine. In 2013, Tom was named “Humanitarian of the Year” by the Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA) and a “40 Under 40” award winner by Providence Business News. He is a member of both PCA (Painting Contractors Association) and RIBA (Rhode Island Builders Association). Tom has often had weekly ‘Home Improvement Tips’ that have aired on the radio on 630 WPRO AM and on television on WPRI 12. You can catch Tom LIVE on the radio EVERY Saturday, 2pm-3pm, on 630 WPRO AM (99.7 FM) during his weekly ProTalk Home Improvement Radio Show!
Summer of Savings
By Mark Berger
Located on George Washington Highway (Rte. 116) on the Smithfield/Lincoln line, Toyota of Smithfield has new and certified, pre-owned vehicles to sell!
Regardless of what type of car or truck you need, their knowledgeable staff will make the car-purchasing process simple. General Manager John Durrani said that those seeking their next automobile should work with their award-winning sales department to find incentives.
“Anyone who trades in either their used or certified, pre-owned cars, will receive an additional $1,000 over book value,” Durrani said. “There won’t be a better time for anyone to trade in their cars. Your trade is worth more than it ever has before, and it’s worth more now than it will ever be worth.”
For those who already possess either a car and/or truck, customers should visit their award-winning service department to keep their purchase running smoothly. Their highly-trained staff can diagnose small problems before they become major problems.
With unusually smaller-than-normal inventory, they also seek any available used cars. Durrani said that there are several incentives to move someone from their older car into a newer model.
“We are appealing to the public to drive in with their used vehicles. Right now, we do not have available used car inventory to fulfill orders,” Durrani said.
To help facilitate their need for additional certified, pre-owned vehicles, Toyota of Smithfield also offers 115% of its book value for any used cars. It doesn’t matter whether customers decide to purchase a car from their lot.
“We will purchase your trade-in, even if you don’t buy a vehicle from us,” he added.
The dealership holds a monthly private sale. This month’s event is scheduled for Friday, August 30, and Saturday, August 31 from 10:00 AM until 6:00 PM, by appointment only. Attendees will have access to their inventory. Managers will be there to answer questions and offer additional incentives.
The Dealership’s Peace of Mind Purchase Process means no hassles over pricing, trade-in values, cash back and rebate incentives offered up front, and the best available leasing and financing terms also offered up front. Durrani said that this is just part of the allaround, customer-driven experience he implemented to ensure the process does not get bogged down in miscommunication.
Schedule an appointment by calling them 401-723-0962, or visit their website at www.toyotaofsmithfield.com.
STATE THE FACTS...
1 out of every 8 Americans have been employed by McDonald’s at some point.
The largest oil-producing field in the lower 48 states is in Taft, California.
Apple has more money than the U.S. Treasury.
In Montana, cows out number people 3 to 1.
A 3,000 year old obelisk, named Cleopatra’s Needle is located in New York’s Central Park. It stands about 66 feet tall andweighs somewhere near 220 tons. It was given as a gift of friendship in 1879.
Though most Americans speak English, we have no official national language.
Medical errors are the 6th leading cause of death in the US.
The spillway over Shasta Dam in Redding, California creates the world’s largest man-made waterfall at 438 feet.
Virginia has birthed more presidents than any other state.
The most crooked street in the world is Snake Alley, located in Burlington, Iowa.
27% of Americans don’t believe we landed on the moon.
The first motel was built in San Luis Obispo, California during the 1920’s when the Motor Inn merged the two words, motor and hotel.
If you have $10 in your pocket and no debt, you are wealthier than 25% of Americans.
100 acres of pizza are served in the US every day.
Americans spend roughly 4.4 years of their life at each of their jobs.
Rhode Islanders were the first to take military action against England by sinking one of their ships in the Narragansett Bay, located between Newport and Providence. The English ship was called “The Gaspee.”
The Library of Congress is keeping an archive of every tweet ever tweeted.
The largest man-made lake in the U.S. is Lake Mead, created by Hoover Dam.
22 million chickens are consumed in the US every day.
1 out every 3 Americans is obese.
Boulder City, Nevada is the only place left in the state where gambling is illegal. The government did not want workers on the Hoover Dam to gamble their money away.
The White Horse Tavern in Rhode Island was built in 1673 and is the oldest operating tavern in the United States.
All banks in the U.S. were closed during the week of March 5th - 12th, 1933. This was to keep scared people from taking all their money out.
A Supreme Act of Kindness
By Jim Ignasher
Sgt. Lawrence J. La Croix of Georgiaville served with the 43rd Infantry Division during World War II.
Photo courtesy of Ed and Shirley La Croix
What is a hero? It’s a simple question, yet the word has broad definitions.
The preliminary naval bombardment began at exactly 0700 hrs. (7 a.m.) As red-hot shells sailed overhead peppering the distant shore and pulverizing Japanese held positions, the smoke created by the explosions obscured the distant beach. From their landing crafts bobbing in the waves off shore, the men designated to be part of the first wave of invasion forces wondered if it would be enough to “soften” the landing area. Some vomited; partly from seasickness, mostly from nerves. Others prayed. For many, such as Sergeant Lawrence J. La Croix, of Georgiaville, this would not be their first time in combat, and they knew that luck was almost as important as skill when it came to staying alive. It was January 9, 1945, and the Battle of Luzon had officially begun.
La Croix was part of a communications company in the 43rd Infantry Division. Once on shore, it would be his job to establish communication lines between the beaches and the troops moving inland. It was dangerous, but important work. To increase the chance of success, an officer had divided the company between two boats, knowing they would have to run a gauntlet of enemy fire on their way to shore.
When it was time, dozens of landing craft carrying hundreds of men began their run towards the beach. Enemy artillery, untouched by the preliminary bombardment, began firing from inland positions, hurling screaming shells at the oncoming forces. Huge geysers of water shot skyward as the shells fell around the boats.
There was no way to know where the next round would fall, and those that found their mark blew both ship and men to eternity. Turning back was not an option.
The two boats containing men from La Croix’s company continued in side by side with shells dropping all around them. As they neared the beach two mortar rounds struck La Croix’s boat, but miraculously nobody was hurt. When a round hit the other boat it killed one man and wounded several others.
Despite being hit twice, La Croix’s boat continued at full speed towards the beach. As soon as the hull scraped against the sand officers began shouting orders. The troops did as they were told, scrambling out of the relative safety of the landing craft and into the hellfire that was the beach. In the midst of exploding artillery and flying bullets, La Croix and his men set about their work.
Lawrence La Croix was a native of Smithfield, born in 1922, the fifth of eight children, and the son of Smithfield’s former Chief of Police. He grew up in Georgiaville, attended Cook School on Farnum Pike, and later went to LaSalle Academy in Providence. He took a job as a weaver at the former Esmond Mills, and became a volunteer member of the Georgiaville Fire Company.
He was still a teenager when the attack on Pearl Harbor pulled the United States into World War II. Like many young men of his era he wanted to do his part, and enlisted in the Rhode Island National Guard, which was later activated for federal duty, and merged with units from Connecticut and Massachusetts to form the 43rd Infantry Division.
The 43rd saw action throughout the South Pacific, fighting at places few from New England had ever heard of; New Caledonia, Bougainville, Munda, Rendova, just to name a few. During his twenty-eight months overseas Sergeant La Croix became a battle-hardened veteran. By the time he took part in the invasion of Luzon, (A large island in the Philippines.) he was an “old man” at 23 when compared to the peach-fuzzed teenagers fresh from the states.
An aerial view of Camp La Croix on the island of Luzon. The camp was named in honor of Sergeant Lawrence J. La Croix of Georgiaville. (U.S. Army photo.)
The battle for Luzon lasted for weeks, but shortly after the invasion the La Croix family received word that Lawrence had been killed. A local newspaper reported that he had died within five minutes of landing on the beach. What the article didn’t state is that La Croix could have been home on leave in Georgiaville at the time of the battle, but he chose to allow a close friend from Massachusetts to go home in his place.
The reader should stop and think about that for a few moments. Here was a man who’d been serving in overseas combat away from home and family for more than two years. He had certainly earned a furlough, and no doubt wanted the chance to see his loved ones, for the possibility existed that he might never see them again. Yet despite his own wants, he put another’s needs above his own, and told his friend to go home in his place. Would you have done the same?
According to La Croix’s younger brother Ed, the reason was because his friend had been wounded four times already, and Lawrence felt that with the invasion of Luzon coming up, the man’s luck might be running out. His friend’s wife was also about to have a baby. There’s a special bond that develops between troops in combat, and Lawrence probably saw it as a way of protecting his buddy.
His sacrifice was not in vain, for his friend survived the war, lived a long and fruitful life, and the child didn’t have to grow up without a father. The man (Who will remain nameless to protect his privacy.) never forgot
La Croix’s selfless act of kindness that arguably saved his life.
One thing Edward La Croix had always wondered about was the final resting place of his older brother. After the war the family had tried to get information from the army so that his remains could be repatriated to Smithfield, but were unsuccessful. In more recent years Ed sought the help of Rhode Island politicians who said they would look into it, but never got back to him.
In 2010, a helpful clerk at the American Battle Monuments Commission in Washington, D.C., revealed that Sergeant La Croix is listed on a monument in Manila American Cemetery in the Philippines, but he’s not buried there; he was buried at sea. The same is true for others in the 43rd Infantry Division who died on the opening days of the battle.
The clerk explained that due to Luzon being in a tropical region, and the battle dragging on over a period of weeks, many casualties were buried at sea out of respect for the dead, and the health and safety of the living. At least the family’s long-time question was finally answered.
Sergeant La Croix was the first from his communications company to be killed in action on Luzon. In honor of his sacrifice, the former Cabanatuan prison camp on the island was later converted to a rest camp for men of the 43rd Division, and was re-named Camp La Croix in his honor.
The former commanding officer of the 43rd Infantry Division, Major General Leonard F. Wing, was once quoted as saying, “Some division in the army may have had as good communications as the 43rd, but no division anywhere ever had any better communications”. This was a fine tribute to the men who risked their lives laying communications wire across battlefields to ensure the rapid and accurate flow of information.
What is a hero? It’s a simple question, yet the word has broad definitions. Sergeant Lawrence J. La Croix certainly met the standard of all of them.
Originally published in Your Smithfield Magazine, November, 2010
WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED.
COLLISION REPAIRS
When an accident occurs, it’s important to find a reputable auto body shop that will ease your mind and help you every step of the way. Our trusted team is trained in collision repair, framework, dent repair, computerized diagnostics, paint matching, paint restoration, and detailing / refinishing services.
CONVENIENT RENTALS
We own and maintain our own fleet of rental vehicles ready for you the second that you walk through our doors. Delta Auto Rental helps streamline the rental and collision process. We are proud to offer a wide selection of rental vehicles from compact to luxury, Jeeps, SUVs, etc.
24/7 TOWING
Delta Auto Body and our partners now have multiple tow trucks able to pick you up 24/7, 365 days a year wherever your vehicle is located. Delta Towing will immediately send out a truck to recover your vehicle and bring it to their facility for repairs.
