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
For more details about these upcoming
and
273-5900. More details may be found by visiting their
at www.AnthonysonFederalHill.com.
ShopInRI 09
Flying This Summer? Cut TSA Lines for Free
Already dreading long security
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.
Southwest Airlines plans to end cabin service earlier on its flights. Flight attendants will begin preparing the cabin for landing at an altitude of 18,000 feet instead of 10,000 feet. The change is designed to “reduce the risk of in-flight turbulence injuries” for crew members and passengers, the company said. For passengers, that means they will need to do the usual pre-landing proceduressuch as ensuring their seatbelts are fastened and returning their seats to an upright position - earlier than before.
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.
While turbulence-related fatalities are rare, there have been injuries. More than one-third of all airline incidents in the US from 2009 through 2018 were related to turbulence, and most of them resulted in one or more serious injuries but no damage to the plane, the National Transportation Safety Board reported. In May, a 73-year old man died on board a Singapore Airlines flight when the plane hit severe turbulence over the Indian Ocean. Turbulence will only increase with climate change, experts said.
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.
“The atmosphere is getting more turbulent; there will be more severe turbulence in the atmosphere,” Paul Williams, a professor of atmospheric science at the University of Reading, told USA Today. Southwest previously had announced other changes. Starting next year, the airline will end its half-century tradition of “open seating”—passengers picking their own seats after boarding the plane.
TravelTips
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 for the
Shop In RI Selects: Stowe Mountain Resort as the #1 skiing destination in the Northeast.
Shop In RI Selects Sugarbush Resort, Vermont as their #1 Skiing Getaway on the East Coast!
Shop In RI Selects: The Taste of Maine Restaurant in Woolwich,
Maine for having the world’s largest lobster roll.
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!
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?
The Northeast region of the United States offers several excellent skiing destinations, but Stowe Mountain Resort in Vermont often stands out as one of the best. Nestled in the Green Mountains, Stowe offers a combination of world-class trails, breathtaking scenery, and charming New England ambiance. The resort features two mountains—Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, and Spruce Peak—providing a wide variety of terrain suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Beyond skiing, visitors can enjoy luxury accommodations, fine dining, and activities such as snowshoeing and ice skating. With its rich history, vibrant après-ski scene, and wellmaintained slopes, Stowe continues to be a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts in the Northeast.
Fourth of July Airfare Down
Top Travel Destinations for 2025
By 27% From Last Year
Ready to get lost in wanderlust?
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.
Travel + Leisure released its annual list of the best travel destinations across the globe, with 50 locations vetted by its staff for different types of travelers. “These are places that feel of the moment, whether that’s because they offer unparalleled access to the outdoors, a cultural immersion you can’t find anywhere else, a pulsequickening hit of excitement, or the sort of blissful luxury only a true fivestar property can deliver,” says Alisha Prakash, associate editorial director at Travel + Leisure. Here’s a sample of one US and one international pick from each of the magazine’s seven travel categories:
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
Woman United
Atlanta, New Orleans, Chicago, and New York City.
Moments on the Water: Apostle Islands, Wisconsin; the French Riviera
Beach Vibes: Santa Monica, California; Grenada
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!
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.
Food and Drink: Colorado’s Western Slope; Osaka, Japan
Cultural Immersion: Charleston, South Carolina; Budapest, Hungary
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 destination in Vermont, Sugarbush is a fantasic choice for a winter weekend getaway!
4 Shop In RI
Adventurous Travel: Universal Orlando; Nicaragua
Nature Lovers: Anchorage, Alaska
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).
City Thrills: Portland, Oregon; Marrakech
Santa Monica, California
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 A person three miles or obtain able cold, tions like South the physical than same down
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
Amateur Sleuth: I Found DB Cooper’s Parachute
Became a Bride and a Widow
Within Minutes
It’s been more than half a century since DB Cooper entered crime lore by parachuting out of a plane he hijacked in the Northwest, and an amateur sleuth thinks he has cracked the case thanks to the discovery of a telltale parachute, reports Cowboy State Daily. YouTuber Dan Gryder says he found the modified device matching the one used in the hijacking on property owned by the family of the late Richard McCoy in North Carolina, after searching a shed with their permission. “That rig is literally one in a billion,” says Gryder, who released a series on YouTube about his investigation.
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.
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 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.”
Gryder says he has turned the parachute over to FBI investigators, though the agency still has not changed its 2016 status update declaring the case inactive. McCoy’s name would be familiar to those who have studied the infamous crime because he was arrested after a nearly identical hijacking months later, then fatally shot after escaping from prison in 1974. What’s more, his photo bears a striking resemblance to a sketch made of the man who called himself Cooper.
McCoy’s own children, Chante and Richard III, say they agree with Gryder. The two say they have long suspected their father was the hijacker but said nothing out of respect for their mother, Karen, who died in 2020. According to Gryder, FBI investigators told him a possible next step would be to exhume McCoy’s body and attempt to get a DNA match with evidence left behind.
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
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 Streamed Songs of 2024
Top 4 Red Sox Center Fielders of All Time
THE TOP EARNING MUSICIANS OF THE DECADE
Dom DiMaggio
Legendary St. John’s Coach Lou Carnesecca Has Died
Real Life Happy Gilmore Hears From Adam Sandler
Lou Carnesecca, the spirited former St. John’s basketball coach known for his eccentric sweaters, passed away at 99, just weeks from his 100th birthday. A family member informed St. John’s University that Carnesecca died in a hospital surrounded by loved ones. The university praised the Hall of Fame coach for endearing himself to generations with his sharp wit and warm demeanor.
Carnesecca coached the St. John’s team for 24 seasons across two intervals, ensuring a postseason tournament appearance every year. St John’s iconic arena in Queens bears his name, a testament to his legacy. Known as “Little Looie,” he led
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
the team to 18 NCAA Tournament appearances and achieved 526 wins, capturing hearts in the bustling city through his energetic presence on the sidelines. Carnesecca was notorious for saying, “I never scored a basket… the players did everything,” underscoring his humility.
Renowned for both his antics and wisdom, Carnesecca’s influence extended beyond the Big East titles in 1983 and 1986. He nurtured over 40 NBA draft picks, including stars like Chris Mullin, Mark Jackson, and Malik Sealy. “I don’t know if there’s anybody else in coaching like him,” UConn coach Jim Calhoun told the Hartford Courant at one point. “Even if people hate the Big East nobody hates Looie. If you like basketball, you like Looie. If you like kids, you like Looie.”
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
Taylor Swift ($825 million)
Dr. Dre ($825 million)
Fred Lynn
Johnny Damon
Reggie Smith
Beautiful Things
Benson Boone
Lose Control
Teddy Swims
Cruel Summer
Taylor Swift
Greedy
Tate McRae
Supporting Music Creators in RI’s Hospitality Scene through Licensing
by Farouk Rajab President/CEO, Rhode Island Hospitality Association
Music is more than just background noise in Rhode Island’s restaurants, bars, hotels, and venues. It is part of the experience we offer to set the mood, create a welcoming atmosphere, and keep patrons coming back. However, as important as music is to guest experiences, so too is the need to stay compliant with U.S. copyright law, which requires public venues to have music licenses. This requirement may feel like just another box to check, but the copyright law was last generally revised in 1976 which the origins off goes back to the Copyright Clause listed in the United States Constitution (Article I, Section 8, Clause 8).
When our businesses play music, whether it is from a live band, a DJ, or even a simple playlist, we are using someone’s intellectual property. Creators depend on licensing fees, collected by performing rights organizations (PROs) like ASCAP and BMI, to earn a living. These organizations work on behalf of the songwriters, composers, and publishers who often do not have other income streams from touring or merchandise sales. By licensing music, we are supporting these creators and ensuring that they are paid for their work. I liken it to a chef who has a proprietary recipe – if we just handed that recipe out to everyone, then fewer customers would be willing to pay for something they can now make on their own.
The process of licensing music for our industry has thankfully been made relatively simple by music licensing organizations that offer access to over 20 million songs, covering just about any musical need we might have, from playlists and background music to more interactive options like karaoke. And, let us face it, karaoke is a huge draw for patrons across Rhode Island. Having the right license in place makes it easy to host these events without worrying about copyright compliance, which can otherwise lead to hefty fines.
Now, there are some exemptions in copyright law for smaller establishments. Those exemptions are better discussed with the pros from the music licensing organizations. For most of us, purchasing a license is the straightforward, secure route. Licenses generally are reasonable in cost based on your usage. A reasonable price when weighed against the significant fines that can come with operating without one. Besides, these fees go straight to supporting the artists who provide the music that helps drive business in our establishments.
It is still confusing, but this is where the RI Hospitality Association can assist. In partnership with BMI, we work to help our members understand and navigate music licensing requirements. Please visit our YouTube channel and watch Copyright & Music Licensing May 2023 recording of our free webinar, https://youtu.be/KCItQL6ZfY8?si=ZMPOs7IcZGdc0s Pq
RIHA is committed to supporting local businesses in the licensing process so that our industry can stay compliant without missing a beat. Whether you host a live band every weekend or simply set the mood with background music, we are here to guide you through your options and help you choose what is right for your venue.
The importance of licensing is about more than legality, it is about respect for the artists who bring life to our spaces. We are proud to foster a culture of compliance that also celebrates creativity. As you consider your music needs, know that licensing is not just an expense; it is an investment in the future of music that elevates the hospitality experience.
Our industry has always valued relationships, whether with our patrons, our teams, or the artists we play and welcome at our venues. By licensing music properly, we are building one more meaningful connection—one that sustains the music community and enhances our own. Let us continue to create spaces where both our businesses and the artists behind our soundtracks can thrive together.
Farouk Rajab
12 Things You Didn’t Know
12 Things You Didn’t Know
1. New millionaires, more than any other city in the world.
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.
What’s Up With That?
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.
2. Hummingbirds are the only birds that can fly backwards and upside down
The average American woman now weighs as much as the average 1960s man.
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.
Jamaica is the only country in the world whose flag doesn’t contain the colors red, white, or blue. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
Research shows that the creativity may begin in the cerebellum, rather than the “right brain.”
3. Swedish blood banks text their donors to notify them whenever their blood has helped save a life.
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.
4. Roughly 70 people in New York City are bitten by squirrels every year.
You can control the volume of a YouTube video by using the up and down arrows on your keyboard.
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.
On average, soccer players run about seven miles per game. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
The Olympic Games typically go about 156% over budget. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
5. In 1999, a 15-year-old hacked NASA and caused a 21-day shutdown. He also hacked the Pentagon.
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.”
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.
For the first time ever, the Olympic Games are featuring karate, skateboarding, sport climbing, and surfing. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
The design of the tallest residential building in the world, 432 Park Avenue in Manhattan, was inspired by a trash can.
6. When the show “Friends” debuted, People Magazine gave it a D+ rating, and Time magazine called the characters “dysfunctional morons”.
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.
Owls have such sharp hearing that they can hear a mouse stepping on a twig from 75 feet away. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
Studies show the key to happiness is spending your money on experiences rather than possessions.
7. In 1981, legendary boxer Muhammad Ali once talked a suicidal man off the ledge of a building.
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. The average 4-year-old laughs 300 times a day. The average 40-year-old laughs four times a day.
More people are killed by donkeys annually than are killed in plane crashes.
Studies suggest that gifted people often have bad handwriting because their brains work faster than their hands.
A recent study found that higher blood pressure in an expectant mother is associated with having a boy.
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.
9. If you send a wedding invitation to Mickey and Minnie Mouse, they’ll send you an autographed photo and a ‘Just Married’ badge.
Shakespeare invented the words “assassination” and “bump.”
Cheetos are naturally gray before they are given a bright orange artificial color.
In 2015, Americans wrote out 17.3 billion checks. In the same year, they made 69.5 billion debit card purchases.
In 1956, Elvis Presley publicly got his Polio vaccine, and within six months, vaccination rates among young Americans skyrocketed to 80 percent. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
A single Google search requires about the same computing power as sending Apollo 11 to the Moon. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
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.
Cotton candy only costs about six cents per serving to make, including the cardboard cone.
10. Spending time with happy, positive people will make you happier and improve your well-being, according to a study from Harvard Medical School.
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. When Steve Jobs was on his deathbed, he requested five different oxygen masks so he could choose the one with the best design.
Humans cut down about 15 billion trees each year, and the global tree count has fallen by 46% since the beginning of civilization. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
New research has found that the NFL players that incur the most penalties get arrested more than their teammates.
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.
According to USDA projections, by 2025 Americans will consume 219 pounds of meat per year on average.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. On April Fool’s Day in 1997, “Jeopardy!” host Alex Trebek and “Wheel of Fortune” host Pat Sajak swapped shows for the day.
Nintendo has only had six presidents, despite being founded over 130 years ago. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
Cher is the only artist in history to have a number-one single on a Billboard chart for six consecutive decades. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
A Classic Coastal Christmas of Historic Holiday Traditions
by Julia Romano
PVD Cookie Monstah Cookies by Liz
By Alicia Alexander
Elizabeth (Liz) Johnson started baking chocolate chocolate chip cookies during the pandemic, initially with mixed results. After getting a hand mixer, she was able to perfect the recipe and her family and friends loved the cookies. Her family and friends encouraged her to start selling the cookies, which she began doing in September 2020.
The Cookie Monstah Instagram page has been a great place to sell cookies, which gained over 200 followers within 2 months. She has a steady stream of loyal customers ordering cookies, including catering orders for a wedding, a birthday party, and a dental practice. However, she has found it challenging to consistently grow her audience and sales, as cookie sales tend to be seasonal.
Friends and followers suggested that Elizabeth look into networking groups like BNI (Business Network International) to connect with potential business customers. Offering constructive guidance, Alicia Alexander offered to share Elizabeth’s business with her network, including a sales coach in Chicago who may be interested in the cookies. Alicia encouraged Elizabeth to consider more active marketing, but Elizabeth expressed hesitation about making direct sales calls due to not having a vendor license or a commercial kitchen.
Elizabeth shared that while she has been encouraged to open a bakery, her passion is in the cookie baking itself, not necessarily running a large commercial operation. She prefers to keep it as a small business or hobby for the immediate future, focusing on quality and creativity rather than rapid growth. She discussed her long-term vision of potentially opening a coffee shop that would feature her cookies.
Alicia offered to place an order. Elizabeth’s cookies will be featured in Shop in RI Magazine. Alicia encouraged Elizabeth by offering to share her business with her sales coach and other contacts who may be interested. On the topic of scaling the business, Elizabeth shared her challenges of growing and developing the business, and further, given Elizabeth’s current constraints, Elizabeth agreed to stay in touch about potential opportunities.
To Contact Elizabeth (Liz) Johnson:
Email: PVDcookiemonstah@gmail.com
Instagram: PVDCookieMonstah
Staying Fit Through the Holidays: A Guide to Balance, Health, and Enjoyment
By: Stacie Venagro | World Miss Fitness America Pro
take time to savor each bite, listen to your hunger cues, and avoid distractions while eating. This approach can help you avoid feeling deprived without going overboard.
Tip: Use the “80/20 rule” by making 80% of your food choices nutrient-dense and healthy, leaving 20% for holiday treats and indulgences.
5. Make Movement a Social Activity
The holiday season is often filled with joy, family gatherings, delicious food, and, let’s face it—extra calories. Between busy schedules, cold weather, and tempting treats, staying on track with your fitness goals can seem challenging. However, a few mindful adjustments can help you stay active, maintain your fitness, and still enjoy the season’s festivities. Here’s a guide to staying fit through the holidays, with a focus on balance, flexibility, and smart strategies.
1. Set Realistic Goals for the Season
While it’s tempting to aim for ambitious fitness goals during the holidays, it’s important to set expectations that are realistic and achievable. Instead of planning for drastic improvements, aim to maintain your current fitness level or commit to smaller goals like maintaining a certain number of workouts per week. This mindset allows you to stay consistent without feeling pressured and helps avoid disappointment if things don’t go exactly as planned.
Tip: Set small, attainable goals, such as exercising three times per week or trying to maintain your current weight.
2. Incorporate Short, Efficient Workouts
If time is tight, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and circuit workouts are great options to maximize calorie burn in a short time. These workouts, which typically last between 15–30 minutes, can be done at home or with minimal equipment, making it easy to squeeze them in even on a busy day. Activities like bodyweight exercises, brisk walks, or even 10-minute yoga stretches can make a difference.
Tip: Start your day with a quick 15-minute HIIT session or a gentle stretch to get moving before the festivities begin.
3. Take Advantage of Seasonal Activities
Make your holiday activities double as fitness opportunities! Seasonal sports like ice skating, sledding, or skiing are not only fun but also great workouts. Even simple activities like walking to see holiday lights or playing in the snow with family and friends can help keep you active.
Tip: Plan a family-friendly activity each weekend, such as a winter hike or a trip to the local ice-skating rink. It’s a great way to make memories and stay moving.
4. Stay Mindful with Holiday Eating
With abundant holiday treats, it’s easy to overindulge. Instead of restricting yourself, focus on balance. Enjoy your favorite treats in moderation, prioritize protein and fiber in your meals to stay fuller for longer, and try mindful eating practices—
Spending time with loved ones doesn’t have to be all about sitting down. Suggest a post-meal walk, a holiday dance-off, or even a group fitness class as a way to stay active while bonding with family and friends. This way, you’re integrating fitness with quality time, making it both enjoyable and sustainable.
Tip: Invite friends or family members to join you for a morning yoga session or an afternoon walk to catch up.
6. Prioritize Sleep and Stress Management
Holiday stress and lack of sleep can make it harder to stay active and make healthy choices. Try to maintain a consistent sleep routine, practice deep breathing or meditation to manage stress, and take short breaks during the day to recharge. When you’re well-rested and calm, you’re more likely to stay motivated and resilient in the face of holiday temptations.
Tip: Set a “wind-down” time each evening to prepare for bed by turning off screens, dimming the lights, and maybe indulging in a soothing holiday tea
7. Hydrate Wisely
It’s easy to overlook water intake when we’re indulging in festive beverages and holiday treats. Staying hydrated supports metabolism and can help curb unnecessary snacking. If you’re indulging in holiday drinks, try alternating with water to help balance it out.
Tip: Start your morning with a big glass of water and aim to keep a water bottle nearby throughout the day.
8. Be Kind to Yourself
The holidays are a time for celebration, not guilt. If you miss a workout, enjoy an extra cookie, or sleep in, remember that it’s all part of the season. Focus on balance rather than perfection, and don’t let one off-day derail your overall progress. Health and fitness are long-term journeys, and small slips don’t undo all your hard work.
Tip: Practice self-compassion and remind yourself that enjoying the holidays is part of a balanced, healthy lifestyle.
Staying Consistent, Not Perfect
Remember, staying fit during the holidays doesn’t require perfection. Consistency is key. Even if you can only commit to a few short workouts or more mindful eating on certain days, these small choices add up. By setting realistic goals, prioritizing movement, and giving yourself grace, you can enjoy the holiday season and start the new year feeling strong, refreshed, and ready to jump back into your routine.
Embrace the holiday spirit and enjoy the season while staying active and healthy—your body and mind will thank you come January!
New Year Ahead Changes and Commitments
By Susan Gazerro
With the new year approaching, most feel it’s a time for change and new commitments. “I’ll start the beginning of the new year,” is such a common phrase. However, what gets started isn’t always finished. As I said, the new year is a popular time for most to make changes. Those changes may include resolutions such as losing weight, improving quality of life, spending more time with family and friends, better budgeting with finances, changing shopping habits, etc. They all sound good, but how can one stick with a new year’s resolution? Below are some tips to help you stick with yours.
Prioritize and limit your resolutions. You may want to do all of the above mentioned, but choose one or two, and make them a goal. Do not try to do all of them. You may end up feeling like you failed, if you can’t accomplish them all. Your chances for success will be much greater if you don’t over commit.
Have a plan. It’s best to plan for your goal.
Research, think through, and document how you want to accomplish your resolution.
Write down how long it might take to reach your goal. For example, if your resolution is to quit smoking, research how long it takes an average person to quit, and the possible setbacks you may encounter. If your resolution is to lose weight, plan a routine workout or walk that you can and will stick to. Write down a date and an attainable weight you would like to be by that date. Set specific goals. When it comes to exercise, don’t just say that you’re going to exercise more. Instead, have a plan to exercise, maybe 30 minutes each day. Wake up knowing you are going to do it every morning or every lunch break. Being detailed and having a routine holds you accountable. You will also feel accomplished when you complete your workout every day because you can check it off your list.
Don’t set an unrealistic goal. Start small. Avoid setting high expectations. If you want
to lose weight, maybe start with a pound a week. Eight pounds in two months. Once you achieve this goal, you can think about losing more weight. Small goals can help you achieve big results because they are attainable. Having higher expectations can lead to disappointment. Set realistic, attainable goals.
Choose a new resolution. Don’t choose a resolution you have tried in the past, but failed. Instead, pick something different, where you can set up a better path to success. If you do want to choose one you have tried in the past, remember, have a plan. Do the research. Make it real and make it work! You can do this! Surround yourself with people that will support you. If you workout with a friend, it will help motivate you and keep you on track. Ask a family member, friend or co-worker to help with healthier eating habits. Ask for fresh, healthy recipes. We all function better with the community around us, motivating and reminding us why we chose that New Year’s resolution in the first place. Sometimes, it takes a village. That’s okay. Find your village and keep them close on this journey.
A 2009 study found that on average, it takes 66 days to form a new habit. Be patient with yourself. If you fall off track, that’s okay. Just don’t stay off track. Wake up the next day and get right back into your routine. If you stick to it for a few months, it will become second nature, and you won’t be thinking of it as a chore, or something you have to do. It will be everyday life. It will be a new way of life. A better way of life and probably a healthier
way of life. I don’t mean healthy from just an exercise view. I say healthy meaning, if your resolution was to spend more time with family and friends, or budget better, or change shopping habits, you will probably be less stressed and much more relaxed. This is just as healthy as exercising your body.
Only you can make change happen. Don’t count on anyone to do it for you. Again, having support is important, but don’t wait for anyone to start making changes. You are in control. Lastly, don’t keep making excuses. Excuses are a way to justify why you aren’t doing something. You may not succeed at first, but failing means you tried. Just get up and keep going. I promise you, you won’t keep failing.
“He that is good for making excuses is seldom good for anything else.”
“Excuses will always be there for you. Opportunity won’t.”
“Ninety-nine percent of the failures come from people who have the habit of making excuses.”
Automated Business Solutions Looks Toward the Future
By Mark Berger
As twinkling lights and holiday decorations adorn office spaces this December, a less festive but equally-important transformation is taking place in workplaces across the globe.
The humble office equipment we use daily – from smart printers to connected coffee machines – has become an unexpected frontline in the battle for cybersecurity.
“The landscape of office technology has fundamentally shifted,” says Mike Ardry, President of Automated Business Solutions . “What used to be simple stand-alone devices are now sophisticated network endpoints that require the same level of security attention as any computer on our network.”
Gone are the days when cybersecurity meant simply installing antivirus software on computers. Today’s office is a complex ecosystem of interconnected devices, each potentially serving as a gateway for cyber threats. That seemingly innocent smart printer in the corner, processing everything from confidential financial reports to
employee records, could be a vulnerable entry point if not properly secured. Even that new IoT-enabled coffee machine, programmed to have your perfect brew ready for early morning meetings, is connected to your network and requires security consideration.
The stakes are particularly high during the holiday season, when many offices operate with skeletal crews and remote work arrangements become more common. Cybercriminals, well aware of these seasonal vulnerabilities, often increase their activities during this period. A compromised office device can serve as a persistent backdoor into corporate networks, potentially leading to data breaches that could dampen holiday spirits well into the new year.
Recognizing the critical nature of this evolving threat landscape, Automated Business Solutions recently strengthened its cybersecurity capabilities through the strategic acquisition of Tech911 of Warwick, RI.
“Automated Business Solutions has always been at the forefront of office technology
solutions, and this acquisition represents our commitment to providing comprehensive security for our clients’ entire office ecosystem,” explains Mike Ardry.
Chris Dias, who founded Tech911, and now serves as a Manager at Automated Business Solutions, brings over a decade of cybersecurity expertise to the table.
“Modern office equipment isn’t just about functionality anymore,” he notes. “ Every networked device needs to be treated as a potential security checkpoint. The merging of IT and office equipment is no longer a trend – it’s a necessity for modern business security.”
This merger of expertise comes at a crucial time as modern office equipment now comes equipped with built-in security features like firmware validation, encrypted communications, and automatic security updates. Leading manufacturers are integrating zero-trust architectures into their devices, ensuring that every print job, scan, or casual coffee brew doesn’t become a security nightmare.
As we wrap up another year, forward-thinking organizations are adding secure office equipment to their wish lists, recognizing that these devices are no longer just productivity tools but essential components of a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. The best gift a company can give itself this holiday season might just be a secure, smart-device ecosystem that protects its digital assets while
enabling the productivity modern businesses demand.
“Automated Business Solutions has always been at the forefront of office technology solutions, and this acquisition represents our commitment to providing comprehensive security for our clients’ entire office ecosystem,” explains Ardry.
Automated Business Solutions’ mission is to create long-term partnerships by providing office technology solutions and IT managed services that improve our client’s workflow, efficiency, and profitability.
Their vision is to be New England’s office technology solutions and managed services provider of choice. From the local New England office to the National Fortune 500 company, our business philosophy and services offered reinforce our commitment to our customers, employees, and community at large.
They provide organizations the ability to print, copy, scan and access information effectively. Sales and Service Professionals work together to provide and support office solutions that maximize your company’s daily workflow and productivity related to document output and network communication
For more information about their company, please visit their website at www.absne.com. You may also call their office during normal business hours at 401-732-3000.
Holiday Gift Guide: Financial Gifts with a Lasting Impact
By Carrie McPherson
The holiday season is quickly approaching and for many that means time with family and loved ones as well as pressure to find a perfect and meaningful gift. If it is important to you to give presents that provide lasting impact and never go out of season, consider a financial gift. Here are a few ideas you can feel good about giving.
Start a savings account.
Help instill the importance of saving with the gift of a partially funded savings account. Consider opening a high-yield savings account or Roth IRA for someone you love to help them establish a relationship with a financial institution and learn the importance of a growing investment.
Contribute to charity.
Donating to charity on behalf of a loved one can be a powerful way to give back while sharing your values with a future generation. Spread the holiday spirit by planning a day to volunteer together or contribute to a nonprofit organization that supports causes important to the person receiving the gift.
Provide education funds.
If someone you know is likely to have educational expenses in their future, consider gifting money to help offset the cost. Consider opening a 529 plan for a beneficiary, which allows the funds to be withdrawn tax-free to pay for eligible education expenses down the road. You may open different accounts for each beneficiary and reassign them as needed. Communicate your intentions with the beneficiaries so they can plan how to best utilize the fund to further their education, keeping your intentions and wishes in mind.
Help chip away at debt. Many young adults are burdened by debt as they work to establish themselves financially. Whether balancing student loans or car payments, juggling work and loan repayments can be challenging. Helping your loved one chip away at
loan repayments can relieve stress and allow them to better focus on their future financial goals.
Gifting stock.
Gifting stock is a great way to introduce a loved one to the world of investing. If you’d like to give stock you already own, the shares need to be retitled in the beneficiary’s name. You can also purchase new shares titled in your beneficiary’s name. If you are gifting stock to a minor, you can retain some control by placing it in a trust.
Gift an appointment with a financial advisor. Help your loved ones establish a financial plan with the assistance of an advisor you know and trust. This thoughtful gesture has lasting value by helping lay the foundation for future financial security.
As you consider how to gift your wealth to those you care about, ensure your giving strategy is aligned with your financial plan. A financial advisor working with your tax professional can help you evaluate tax-efficient financial strategies to help maximize your gift this year – and into the future.
“An
“We
Want to Retire Early? Read This First.
By: Edward Pontarelli Jr.
As a financial advisor, I have seen firsthand how much planning it takes to retire early. Deciding to leave the workforce (and say goodbye to your steady paycheck) earlier than you previously intended to may come with many considerations. If you are intrigued by the idea of retiring early, read on for some suggestions for how to assess if moving your retirement date forward is something within your reach.
1. Define your dream retirement. A realistic early retirement plan doesn’t happen by chance. It takes careful planning and deliberate action. Before you can figure out how to make early retirement a viable option, take time to envision the kind of life you want to lead when you leave your primary career. Where will you live? What kind of activities do you plan to pursue? These are the types of questions that will help you define what you want your retirement to be like.
2. Quantify your goal. Many retirees find they spend more money in the early years of retirement because they have more time to travel and pursue hobbies. If this aligns with your retirement vision, be generous in your estimate of how much money you need each year. Once you have an estimate of how much it will cost, you will be better able to map the steps you’ll need to take to save enough money to fund it.
3. Decide which income source to tap into first. Once you know how much your early retirement will cost, you’ll want to line up the order in which you will tap into your investments. How much income you need, the tax treatment of your investments, and the timing of when you’ll take Social Security are all factors to consider as you map out how you will create a paycheck in retirement.
4. Adjust your saving and spending today. Once you have a clear idea of how much your dream retirement will cost, you can evaluate the potential tradeoffs and sacrifices necessary to make it happen. This will likely require reducing spending while maximizing the amount you are saving.
5. Continue investing for growth. It’s common for retirees to adjust their investment allocation to be more conservative in order to protect their principal from potential market downturns or increased volatility. While this may make sense for some, it’s important for your portfolio to at least keep on pace with inflation. After
all, retirement can easily last several decades. Even modest inflation can make a meaningful impact over that timeframe. Factoring inflation into your projections can help you maintain your purchasing power throughout retirement.
6. Don’t overlook health care expenses. Many retirees are surprised by how much of their budget goes toward medical expenses. Don’t be one of them. Make finding health insurance a top priority. And, consider the pros and cons of purchasing longterm care insurance.
7. Be flexible. In life and investing, there are no guarantees. Unexpected events can happen any time, and many have financial implications. Think about what your options are if your savings come up short, such as adjusting your retirement date, spending or perhaps picking up a part-time job, and make sure you have the right insurance in place to cover your various assets.
Retiring early is a big dream. If you want help deciding if or how moving your retirement date forward is realistic for you, meet with a financial advisor. Together you can review your goals, investments, risk tolerance and other factors to help you make retirement decisions with confidence.
Pontarelli Jr,
“Our
Meet The Dream Team: Jay Petronio
Come visit Rhode
Island’s largest window treatment showroom ... or let us bring the showroom to you, with our FREE shop-at-home service.
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 Jay Petronio of Rok Financial in Smithfield.
Jay served in the industry for more than two decades, before entering his position as loan broker six months ago. The organization wants to help business owners of all types with securing the necessary funding to build their future. Petronio said that what sets them apart is their turnaround time.
“We don’t need to look back for two or three years of financial statements as many other institutions do. Instead, we need three to four months of bank statements to get started. Where other places may need months to complete the transactions, we can get the process in two to three days. We work to make it simple for businesses to get the money they need,” he said.
While based in Smithfield, Jay likes working remotely. He also likes the feedback from customers who find out from their research that Rok Financial enjoys a solid reputation.
In the end, Jay believes being a viable resource for people who look to expand their business should seek their assistance.
“We work with small- and large-size businesses, statewide and beyond. The aim for us to find ways to obtain funding to these companies quickly, without the ‘red tape.’ “I appreciate the opportunity to speak with anyone who needs to inject some capital into their endeavors,” he said.
Information about Jay and his services may be obtained by emailing him at Jay.petronio@ rokfinancial.biz, or by calling him at 631-540 8648.
You may also connect with Jay by visiting his link at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaypetro.
As for joining The Dream Team, Jay said that it came from wanting to join a business group focused on helping others. With the help of fellow member Jim Lombari, Petronio attended a few meetings before becoming a member.
Further information about the group may be found by contacting either President Rocco Elgar at 401-265-0857 or at therockhbi@msn.com, or Vice President Tim Richard at 401-766-4200 or at tim@estenandrichardinsurance.com.
Kick off 2025, by Plunging for A Wish Come True
By Mark Berger
The first day of 2025, will be special for many reasons. For numerous groups and individuals, they will head to the ocean for a great cause, while helping two local kids who are battling life-threatening illnesses.
A Wish Come True, the oldest wishgranting organization in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, will host its annual Polar Plunge at Easton’s Beach (AKA First Beach) in Newport, on Wednesday, January 1st, from 11:00 AM until 1:30 PM. Arrive early, as parking will be limited. This year’s presenting sponsor is LiUNA- RI Laborers’ District Council.
This year’s featured “Wish Kids” are Lars and Indy. Lars is 8 years old from Jamestown. Indy is 4 years old and is from Coventry, RI. Lars had a stroke last February. Indy is struggling with brain cancer. Indy’s father works for the Town of North Kingstown, and it is the main reason LIUNA is the presenting sponsor. Both children’s wishes are to go to Florida. One will go to Disney, and the other to an exclusive Marriott resort.
“We know that one of our teammates is struggling with the unimaginable, as he watches his daughter in the battle of a lifetime. We want to be there for his family. Partnering with A Wish Come True to grant her wish is the least we can do. Knowing that this family will receive additional support through this painful journey is also why we want to help,’ stated Arthur Jordan, Business Manager Rhode Island Laborers’ District Council and Laborers’ Local 1322.
AWCT Executive Director Mary-Kate O’Leary said, “Often, people don’t realize they are donating to help make dreams come true for children with a life-threatening illness. This event features more than 5,000 people willing to head into the water and be ‘freezin’ for a reason’.”
Last year, Santos Nieves carried his daughter, Graciela, into the water, and we were all so motivated.
“It was truly touching to see how our efforts truly matter,” stated Bryan Ganley, a plunger for over 40 years. “Walking behind that family was so powerful and something we will never forget!”
“We are especially grateful to the people who made this event so successful for over two decades,” said O’Leary, who will be one of the plungers. “The money we raise from this event goes toward helping children and their families find an opportunity for joy, as well as helping the family get back on their feet during this long and challenging journey.”
There are several ways the public can help, according to O’Leary. Sponsorship levels begin at $250 through $2,500, and you can find information at www.awish.org.
Plungers will be encouraged to give $25 to take the big plunge. In addition, there will be t-shirts and merchandise for sale.
This year, the charity challenges companies to form teams to get their employees involved. Individuals may also form teams. Any team that raises at least $1,000 will be entered to win a $1,500 prize!
To Form a Team, and to register, or to participate/ support in any way, visit www.awish.org.
A Wish Come True, Inc. is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, founded on October 8, 1982. Their mission is to provide wishes and resources to families with children (ages 3-18), suffering with a lifethreatening illness that live throughout Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts.
For more details about the event, and/or the organization, please visit their website at www.awish.org. Or, feel free to contact MaryKate O’Leary either by phone at 401-7819199, directly, at 401-644-2237, or email at: marykate@awishcometrue.org
About A Wish Come True:
A star-studded evening in Newport at The Dockside on Saturday, November 23rd. A Yellow Box Entertainment Production, hosted by CEO John Ippolito and Sarah Hale Folger, welcomed Grammy nominated James Montgomery and friends for his ”Home For The Holidays” event. Musicians on stage included: Barry Goudreau, formerly from the band Boston, Christine Ohlman, The Beehive Queen from SNL, Tunes Antunes, from Beaver Brown Band, Roberto Morbioli, award winning Italian Guitar Master, Doug Woolverton, Emmy nominated trumpet player & trumpet player for Kenny Wayne Shepherd band, Sax Gordon, internationally touring sax player, David Hull, The Joe Perry Project & bassist for Aerosmith, Marty Richards, drummer for J. Geils Band, Kevin James Graham, singer on The Voice, Cliff Goodwin, guitarist in Joe Cocker’s band. Special guests included Toni Lynn Washington, international blues singer and Wyc Grousbeck, Boston Celtics owner who joined the band onstage as guest guitar player. He also brought the NBA Championship Trophy which was displayed on stage. It was the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit. The VIP meet and greet before the show was an amazing way to meet with this super-star cast. It was an amazing night of great music brought together on stage by amazing talent.
The concert benefits Operation Stand Down Rhode Island
Getting started in business takes a lot of hard work and some luck. Knowing what industry to work in and how one can differentiate themselves from similar business models can be daunting. What people quickly learn determines whether their business acumen will translate into visibility and sales. Accomplishing that goes far in achieving success or closing its doors.
Founder Patty Lyons-Bousquet of the East Providence-based CompLyons HR Consulting, LLC, has some advice regarding this. After spending several decades practicing Human Resources, Patty made the move to go into business for herself. She helps clients to navigate through the ways companies can be derailed by not being well informed. Her ability to stay current with the issues makes for how she can positively impact business owners.
Patty knows that as business owners adapt to the many changes that consistently take place, they also need someone who will be there to guide them through those obstacles.
“People need to understand
that what they do not know or understand can hurt them in their checkbook,” said Lyons-Bousquet. “Not knowing the rules, regulations, or changes to the law is no excuse for overlooking their importance. Having an expert who understands these complexities is vital to protecting your company’s financial health and success. That’s where I come in—helping business owners stay competitive and avoid falling behind.”
Patty is no stranger to the industry. She is a seasoned professional with over 30 years of comprehensive experience in Human Resources and management across diverse industries. Her expertise spans
all functional areas of HR, encompassing compliance, agile project management, performance management, organizational design, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEIB), and culture development.
Patty supports and coaches businesses in a variety of industries including non-profit, manufacturing, healthcare, hospitality, and technology. She is a guardian of the human side of the business: policies, people and purpose.
Her first year in business culminated in a celebration that featured her initial success since opening her practice.
Crook Point Brewing Company in East Providence served as the backdrop for a group of friends, colleagues and dignitaries to gather to honor the first anniversary of a local company.
Patty was the honoree on a night that featured remarks from East Providence Mayor Roberto DaSilva, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and representation from The East Bay Chamber of Commerce.
Patty thanked the crowd of more than 100 people for their support that night and for her first year in business.
“I cannot thank you all enough for coming tonight to celebrate this event,” Patty said, holding back tears. “It has been quite the journey, and your support has helped drive success.”
Patty’s business model is centered on helping her clients by offering flexible, customizable services. At CompLyons HR Consulting, LLC, the approach goes beyond simply providing a form or policy and leaving clients to navigate it alone. Instead, every solution is tailored to the client’s business, followed
by hands-on support for execution and effective communication.
She cites the constantly changing employment laws and regulations as a major issue. One administration will pass one set of laws, the next will pull those back and then before you know it, they are changing again. How is a business owner expected to keep up with all of that while trying to run their business?
Lyons-Bousquet said the coming year and new administration will create challenges and opportunities alike.
When it comes to potential clients, Patty highlights small companies that have assigned HR responsibilities to someone without a professional HR background.
“Human Resources is often the responsibility of either the Founder, President, or finance person, none of whom can afford to give it the time it needs. I can work with clients in all states. I currently support clients with employees in more than twodozen states,” she said.
Her advice for those without a direction or human resources
counsel should reach out to her to get educated.
“My passion lies in making HR services accessible to businesses of all sizes. No company should lack HR support simply because their needs seem too small. Clients can work with me in a way that suits them, even if it’s just having someone to turn to for questions as needed,” Patty explained.
More details about CompLyons HR Consulting, LLC may be found by visiting the website at www.CompLyonsHR.com.
Further details may also be found by contacting Patty at 401-489-6560 or Patty@CompLyonsHR.com
Owner, Anthony Manzo of Anthony’s Jewelers Combining His Affection for Others With His Huge Heart
By Julia Romano
NORTH PROVIDENCE - Anthony Manzo, Owner of Anthony’s Jewelers in North Providence, is established as a 41 year successful businessman. His accomplishments however, have just as much to
do with giving back, as they do with making profits.
Known for his countless donations to the community and his charitable events that support those less fortunate during the holiday season, many may not be familiar with Anthony’s love of sharing exciting and memorable, fun adventures, with numerous people throughout the year, and many times, at his own expense.
One of Anthony’s favorite pastimes is his LOVE of traveling to different places, and the same holds true of his generosity when he books trips. Here, is when he goes all out and combines his comedic personality and his affection for others, with his huge heart. Throughout the past several years, there have been hundreds of people who have accompanied Anthony on annual cruises, all of which he takes time to plan himself. These cruises are well known as spectacular trips for all who are traveling with the “Manzo party,” and he often picks up the tab, not just by paying for the trip for a number of friends & family, but for many of the extras that are not covered by the cruises’ costs.
From morning until late into the night, everyone enjoys gathering and spending time together, as Anthony leads the crowd, be it lounging by the pool, sharing cocktails, dining on delicious meals, and even on treks off of the ship to discover the island’s treasures.
After long days of sun and fun, at night’s end - everyone heads over to Anthony’s suite, where he continues the party with his hilarious entertainment. This is exactly where Anthony shines, doing exactly what he truly loves - in the center of a room, surrounded by the laughter of family and friends, and celebrating the togetherness of people he loves.
Photos by: W. Parmentier Media
Ask An Expert
Diagnosing Leaks The Last Resort!
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!
Attempting to figure out where a leak is coming from can often be the ultimate exercise in frustration.
Whether the leak is coming from the interior, the exterior, or someplace in between, correctly figuring out where a leak is stemming from is enough to drive the most cool, calm, and collected of us, entirely batty!
Sometimes, you believe you have found “it,” and corrected the problem, only to hear the dreaded “Drip…Drip…Drip…,” at some point after.
Totally NOT fun!
What convolutes these types of things even further is that sometimes the leak comes from multiple sources, some easier to diagnose than others.
So, what is one to do?
If you have a situation where you have tried to figure out a leak, again and again, and it just does not seem to be stopping, what is now the next step???
While I am totally a fan of cerebrally eliminating possibilities and coming up with the correct answer (believe it or not), there are moments when I myself become stuck and begin to scratch my head.
When things reach this level, there is simply one logical thing that can be done to truly get a handle on the leak.
Begin to open up ceiling & wall areas from the inside out.
Though some folks may be more of a fan of doing this from the outset, I prefer the process of elimination, and ‘when all else fails,’ then turn to opening up the ceiling, or the wall, or whatever else makes sense to open up, to more aggressively track the leak.
There is absolutely something to be said for doing this from the very beginning with the idea of ripping the proverbial band-aid off and getting to the root of the problem, as fast as possible, and many times, this approach, from the very
beginning, is actually quite necessary.
The challenge that I have with going right to this tactic immediately is that the solution to the leak could be quite simple if you are experienced enough to know what to look for.
My preference is to save ripping into ceiling and wall areas until all other more “kinder/gentler” avenues are exhausted.
I also believe that sometimes you simply do not have a choice and it absolutely makes sense to begin opening things up to explore from the inside right from the very start of the leak discovery process.
This type of situation probably occurs about 20% of the time.
Eighty percent of the time, if you methodically work to analyze component by component of where the leak most sensibly can be coming from, then you should be able to figure out how to neutralize the leaking, without causing a bunch of collateral damage.
For times, however, when the mystery cannot be solved, strategically opening things up from the inside out and paying VERY close attention to any paths that the moisture may have created over time - so that the leak can be properly fixed - is an approach that is not only the obvious next step, but also what I tend to view as the last resort for an accurate diagnosis and subsequent correction.
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!
Owner, Anthony Manzo of Anthony’s Jewelers Giving Back to Express Appreciation to God
By Julia Romano
NORTH PROVIDENCE - Anthony Manzo, Owner of Anthony’s Jewelers in North Providence, has been an influential & iconic member of the Rhode Island business landscape for many years, and for many reasons.
Aside from being a successful businessman for the past 41 years, his greatest accomplishment, aside from his history of community generosity, is his family, a family that he’s both devoted to and treasures, with all of his heart.
It is never lost on Anthony that he and his family are very fortunate, and for many reasons. Being successful in any business during the current times is no easy feat for anyone.
Anthony is very well aware that it takes a great amount of ambition, to not only create a business that flourishes, but even more so, it takes many, many hours and consistent effort to maintain one’s success. He is aware of this fact because he has put his heart & soul into all that he has built.
Anthony is, perhaps, most proud of his daughters & sons in law, all of whom have followed his lead and created successes within their own lives. His three precious grandchildren are his most recent blessings, and his feelings for them cannot be expressed with mere words!
To show his heartfelt appreciation for all God has bestowed upon him, Anthony takes pride in his family’s ability to continue giving back to people in the community, who are experiencing various struggles & challenges.
Simply put, Anthony does what he does not just because he’s grateful for the success and love of his family, he also feels that helping others, putting smiles on their faces, taking some of the pressure off, even if just for a short time, makes his life meaningful!
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CLEAN THIS ON YOUR OWN.
A hot pan left unattended on the stove started a fire that not only destroyed the kitchen pictured above, but also spread toxic smoke, sticky soot, and other residues throughout every room in the house. A furnace puffback at another property belched smoke and soot throughout the home via its air duct system, coating walls, ceilings, floors — just about everything inside — with oily, black grime.
Almost as bad as the flames from a fire, smoke, soot, and other toxic residue left behind by these types of property disasters need to be cleaned away quickly before even more damaging effects can develop.
Eliminating smoke and soot residue is one of the most difficult aspects of disaster restoration and to safely minimize further damage, these substances must be strictly handled by specially trained restoration professionals, like Rhode Island Restoration.
Expertly trained in soot and smoke removal as well as water damage and full building reconstruction and repair, both homes were quickly and thoroughly cleaned and then fully restored to their pre-disaster conditions within weeks — much to the relief of the grateful homeowners. Rhode Island Restoration — Ready. Rapid. Reliable.
A Season for Organization Excellence at The Holidays
Alicia J. Alexander, MSL Founder of Make A Difference Consulting
As the holiday season fills our days with celebration and reflection, it also presents a golden opportunity to pause and examine the heart of what makes an organization thrive. At Make A Difference Consulting, we speak of Organizational Excellence as the intersection where science meets humanity—a space where neuroleadership, neuromanagement, and authentic appreciation align to create workplaces that truly flourish.
This holiday season, let’s unwrap the synergy of Neuroleadership, Neuromanagement, and Authentic Appreciation and explore how they can help us foster a culture of excellence that resonates well beyond the holidays.
Neuroleadership: Leading with the Brain in Mind
The holiday season, with its emphasis on connection and understanding, is a perfect reminder of why Neuroleadership is a cornerstone of organizational excellence. At its core, Neuroleadership applies neuroscience to leadership practices, helping us better understand how people think, feel, and behave. During the holidays, leaders often juggle deadlines, end-of-year reviews, and festive events, all while striving to maintain team morale. This is where the principles of Neuroleadership can shine. Leaders who prioritize psychological safety, a foundational aspect of Neuroleadership, create environments where employees feel valued and supported, even amid
stress.
For instance, understanding the brain’s natural response to stress allows leaders to approach challenges with empathy. A simple practice like acknowledging an employee’s hard work or offering flexibility during a busy season can make a significant difference. These small acts tap into the brain’s reward system, fostering trust and boosting morale. As you reflect on your leadership approach this season, ask yourself: Am I leading with empathy and clarity? How can I better support my team’s well-being as we close the year?
Neuromanagement: Managing with Purpose and Precision
While Neuroleadership focuses on guiding and inspiring, Neuromanagement dives into the operational aspects of running a team—rooted in an understanding of how the brain processes information and solves problems. It’s about creating systems and workflows that align with how people naturally function, maximizing productivity and engagement.
During the holiday season, the demands on teams can increase, from meeting year-end goals to balancing personal and professional commitments. Neuromanagement can help managers set priorities, create realistic timelines, and reduce cognitive overload.
One Neuromanagement strategy to consider is
simplifying decision-making processes. The brain has a limited capacity for decision-making, especially when juggling competing priorities. Managers who streamline tasks, provide clear expectations, and delegate effectively help their teams work smarter, not harder.
Equally important is recognizing and addressing burnout. A team’s capacity to perform is directly tied to its mental health. This season, encourage moments of pause. Whether it’s a designated “no-meeting” day or simply reminding your team to take breaks, these efforts show that you value their well-being as much as their output.
Authentic Appreciation: The Heart of Excellence
The holidays are synonymous with gratitude, making it an ideal time to focus on Authentic Appreciation— recognizing and valuing individuals for who they are and the unique contributions they bring. Authentic Appreciation goes beyond surface-level gestures. It’s not just about saying “good job” or handing out generic gifts; it’s about creating moments that genuinely resonate.
Incorporating Authentic Appreciation into your organizational culture means understanding what matters most to each team member by incorporating each person’s appreciation language. For one person, a public acknowledgment of their efforts might mean the world. For another, a thoughtful gesture, like offering time off to recharge, could speak volumes.
Here’s a holiday challenge: write a personalized note to each team member, highlighting a specific contribution they made this year and the impact it had. The effort may seem small, but the emotional return is immense. Authentic Appreciation activates the brain’s emotional centers, fostering a sense of belonging and connection that drives engagement and loyalty.
The Synergy of Excellence
The real magic happens when Neuroleadership, Neuromanagement, and Authentic Appreciation come together. Consider a leader who:
1. Leads with empathy (Neuroleadership) by listening actively and addressing concerns during a stressful project.
2. Manages with precision (Neuromanagement) by providing clear priorities and delegating tasks effectively.
by celebrating milestones and recognizing individual contributions in meaningful ways.
This synergy doesn’t just elevate team performance; it creates a culture where individuals feel seen, supported, and inspired. And what better gift can we give our teams than the gift of belonging and purpose?
Carrying the Spirit of Excellence into the New Year
As the year comes to a close, take a moment to reflect on how you can carry the lessons of this season forward. Organizational excellence isn’t a destination; it’s an ongoing journey of aligning science, strategy, and heart.
Ask yourself and your team:
• How can we deepen our understanding of each other’s needs and motivations?
• What systems can we refine to make work more effective and enjoyable?
• How can we make appreciation an everyday practice, not just a holiday gesture?
This holiday season, let’s commit to making a difference—not just within our organizations, but in the lives of everyone we touch.
Together, we can build workplaces that radiate excellence, joy, and impact throughout the year.
From all of us at Make A Difference Consulting, wishing you a season of peace, gratitude, and extraordinary possibilities through Organizational Excellence.
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).
12 Things You Didn’t Know
12 Things You Didn’t Know
Home for the Holidays at
What’s Up With That?
Located on the George Washington Highway by the Lincoln/ Smithfield line, Toyota of Smithfield has new and certified, pre-owned vehicles ready to move!
1. New millionaires, more than any other city in the world.
No matter what type of vehicle you crave, their knowledgeable staff will ensure that your car purchase happens smoothly.
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.
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.
2. Hummingbirds are the only birds that can fly backwards and upside down
New research has found that the more visually creative a person is, the lower the quality of their sleep.
General Manager John Durrani said that anybody looking for their next automobile should connect with their awardwinning sales department, to search for incentives.
The average American woman now weighs as much as the average 1960s man.
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.
Jamaica is the only country in the world whose flag doesn’t contain the colors red, white, or blue WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
3. Swedish blood banks text their donors to notify them whenever their blood has helped save a life.
Research shows that the creativity may begin in the cerebellum, rather than the “right brain.”
“Anyone who trades in either their used or certified, preowned 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.”
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.
The name tag on Heath Ledger’s nurse uniform in “The Dark Knight” read “Mathilda” the name of the actor’s daughter.
On average, soccer players run about seven miles per game WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
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.
4. Roughly 70 people in New York City are bitten by squirrels every year.
You can control the volume of a YouTube video by using the up and down arrows on your keyboard.
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.
The Olympic Games typically go about 156% over budget.
WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
For those who already either own or lease their vehicle, customers should visit their award-winning service department to keep their vehicles efficient. Their staff can diagnose the small problems before they become more expensive ones.
Studies show that, when it comes to food, the human brain is bad at judging quantity increases but accurate at judging quantity decreases.
5. In 1999, a 15-year-old hacked NASA and caused a 21-day shutdown. He also hacked the Pentagon.
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.”
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.
With reduced inventory, Durrani said that they also want all available used cars and that there are several Toyota incentives to move someone from their older car into a newer one.
50% of Netflix users watch an entire season of a show in a week.
For the first time ever, the Olympic Games are featuring karate, skateboarding, sport climbing, and surfing. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
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. When the show “Friends” debuted, People Magazine gave it a D+ rating, and Time magazine called the characters “dysfunctional morons”.
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.
“We want the public to drive in with their used vehicles. Right now, we need more inventory to fulfill orders,” he said.
By 2050, it’s estimated that four trucks of plastic waste will be added to the ocean every minute.
Samsung has been granted a patent in South Korea for contact lenses that project images directly into the wearer’s eyes.
Studies show the key to happiness is spending your money on experiences rather than possessions.
Owls have such sharp hearing that they can hear a mouse stepping on a twig from 75 feet away. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
Studies show the key to happiness is spending your money on experiences rather than possessions.
7. In 1981, legendary boxer Muhammad Ali once talked a suicidal man off the ledge of a building.
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.
To help facilitate their need for additional certified, preowned vehicles, Toyota of Smithfield also offers 115% of its book value for any used cars. It doesn’t matter whether or not the customer plans on buying from them.
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.
8. The average 4-year-old laughs 300 times a day. The average 40-year-old laughs four times a day.
Air Jordans were banned from the NBA, however Michael Jordan always wore them as Nike was willing to pay the fine for each game.
More people are killed by donkeys annually than are killed in plane crashes.
“We will purchase your trade-in, even if you don’t buy a vehicle from us,” Durrani added.
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.
9. If you send a wedding invitation to Mickey and Minnie Mouse, they’ll send you an autographed photo and a ‘Just Married’ badge.
Shakespeare invented the words “assassination” and “bump.”
In 2015, Americans wrote out 17.3 billion checks. In the same year, they made 69.5 billion debit card purchases.
Cheetos are naturally gray before they are given a bright orange artificial color.
The dealership holds a monthly private sale. This month’s event is scheduled for Friday, December 27, and Saturday, December 28, 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.
In 1956, Elvis Presley publicly got his Polio vaccine, and within six months, vaccination rates among young Americans skyrocketed to 80 percent. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
A single Google search requires about the same computing power as sending Apollo 11 to the Moon. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
If you keep a goldfish in the dark room, it will eventually turn white.
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.
Looking through Instagram accounts of healthy meals can actually trick you into enjoying those foods more than you otherwise would, a study found.
10. Spending time with happy, positive people will make you happier and improve your well-being, according to a study from Harvard Medical School.
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. When Steve Jobs was on his deathbed, he requested five different oxygen masks so he could choose the one with the best design.
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 all-around, customer-driven experience he implemented to ensure the process does not get bogged down in miscommunication.
Humans cut down about 15 billion trees each year, and the global tree count has fallen by 46% since the beginning of civilization.
WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
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.
Nintendo has only had six presidents, despite being founded over 130 years ago. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
12. On April Fool’s Day in 1997, “Jeopardy!” host Alex Trebek and “Wheel of Fortune” host Pat Sajak swapped shows for the day.
Schedule an appointment by calling them 401-723-0962, or visit their website at www.toyotaofsmithfield.com
Cher is the only artist in history to have a number-one single on a Billboard chart for six consecutive decades. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?
“Businesses Give Back” to Kids for the Holidays
By Mark Berger
The season of giving has already begun, as many events hope to drum up support for their respective missions. Numerous groups, organizations, and individuals, are seeking donations of goods and services to help those in need. Toy drives are no different, particularly with the sad thought of children not receiving any gifts during the holidays.
One local businessman has taken an annual fundraising event and expanded its reach during its short tenure. Bob Salvas of Momentum Networking recently hosted the “Businesses Give Back” event at The Guild Brewery in Pawtucket, to collect as many toys for area families as possible. His goal this year of getting 1,000 toys was lofty, but he believed it was attainable. After all, his 2023 drive brought in 750 toys from individuals and companies. At night’s end, Salvas and friends collected nearly 1,050 toys for local families in need. Gifts were then picked up by the U.S. Marines, as part of its annual Toys for Tots campaign.
CSC Paymaster served as the event’s primary sponsor, along with many other sponsors.
Salvas said that the event keeps growing, as
more people come out to help others.
“This event keeps getting bigger and better for two reasons. First, the level of support from area small businesses that have stepped up and contributed their time and resources to make this successful. Second, the community has come out and supported this drive for years. It’s truly a group effort that enables us to put smiles on children’s faces this Christmas and maybe a sigh of relief for their parents. I am honored to have so many people here to celebrate a great cause,” Salvas said.
CSC Paymaster saw the event as an opportunity to give back to the community. They have been involved with other endeavors ranging from “Adopt-a-Family” programs, to support local charity events.
Steven Truesdale, President & CEO of CSC Paymaster, said that after six decades of being supported by this incredible community, they chose to step up themselves by sponsoring one of Rhode Island’s largest Toys for Tots drives.
“This is our first time partnering with Bob Salvas and Toys for Tots, and it’s a powerful way for us
to say, ‘thank you’ to a community that has made it possible for us to thrive as a local business,” Truesdale said. “Each donation is more than a gift to less-fortunate children—it’s a heartfelt way of giving back to the community that has been the foundation of our company for so many years. This initiative builds on the giving efforts we’ve undertaken in the past and represents a deepened commitment to those around us. We hope that by taking on this role, we’ll inspire others to join in making a difference.”
The Warwick-based payroll company believes it is their responsibility to help others when the opportunity exists. They are hopeful this partnership will continue growing.
“For us, giving back is a way of honoring the local support we’ve received—it’s important to be a part of something bigger and make this season brighter for those around us.
“Every toy collected is a child smiling,” Truesdale said.
Festivities included a delicious buffet provided by Bugg’d Out BBQ, music provided by The StrumDawgs (with a surprise guest appearance from Betty Galligan), craft brews, networking and collecting donations for the U.S. Marines.
Salvas estimated that several hundred people attended the event. He set up registration early, so they could have a count. What he believes happened—not that it was an issue—was people coming to The Guild as a last-minute plan. For anyone who did not bring at least one new, unused toy, Salvas said that they accepted cash donations at the door.
As Salvas mentioned, it took an army of companies to make this event possible. He cited the following businesses for their contributions:
Residential Construction Workforce Partnership, Graphix Plus, PuroClean, Englund Studio, Unconventional Productions, W. Parmentier Photography, Triforce Advisors, Josh Vanada Coaching, Berg’s Eye Communications, Builder’s Insurance Group, and Trust Networking. Bob explained why he got involved with this endeavor and why he keeps pushing it forward.
“This event began as an idea by my friend, Dan Edmonds. He had the idea for people who came to his Networking event around this time of year to bring a gift, instead of cash. It started to grow before Dan sadly passed away, in 2020. When the world was able to meet again after the pandemic, I initially did this as a one-time thing. However, people wanted to see this happen every year. So, in wanting to keep Dan’s memory alive and help others, I continue doing this event to achieve both goals,” he said.
Bob is already planning for next year’s eventcoming in November 2025!
